Caerival's page

"As our bellies anticipate the morning's breakfast, perhaps our ears can fill with news. To what purpose do you ask our gathering?" Caerival directs to the noble.

"That is very generous, kind sir." Caerival says. He thinks for awhile and then orders. "Could I please get a bowl goats milk with oats and barley and some bark from a cherry sapling if you have it..." he smiles and looks down at Gloam. "And I'll have the same, please."

Coppertop wrote:

Coppertop starts to stand but stops half way out of his chair. A quizzical look crosses his face and he says, “Should we wait until after we meet with Nobleman Foxglove?” He looks intently at his comrades while awaiting their replies.

Talacyst nods. "Yes, I believe Rel said that Foxglove would be coming by around breakfast. I'd rather not miss our appointment. I think you and Gloam could step out for a while, Caerival - we'll be sure to get you when he comes."

"Eh, oh the noble...I can be patient but I don't really think any special attention is merrited. I would have come to the aid of any in need."

"mmEEEhh," Gloam whines and plops back down on his hunches. He crosses his front legs and rests his head.

"Hush now." Caerival whispers kindly.

"Coppertop, would you be so kind as to lead us to the good sheriff?" Caerival asks and stands.

"Meh?" Gloam asks.

"Yes, my friend, we are going outside." the druid replies.

"As lovly as this place may be," he explains to the group while indicating the Rusty Dragon, "it is a bit too...surrounding for our tastes."

Etienne looks at Coppertop and Caerival and asks, "Did you feel that, too?"

To Gary wherever you may be, may all your dice rolls be nat 20!

Caerival breaks his long silence with a deep intake of air.

"Spring turns to Summer then to Autumn. Winter comes as it always has but is soon followed by Spring again. Gozrah teaches us that all things are appointed a time to be born and then to die. It is the way of everything under the sun. It is good to mourn the Winter when the hope of Spring is in your heart with the understanding that hope is not anxiety for what might be, but rather a longing for what is sure to come." The druid pauses a bit too long before continuing.

"I did feel something and it felt like a Winter that lingers too long."

Gloam nuzzles Caerivals hand for attention and the druid smiles.

Etienne looks for Caerival. Seeing him, Etienne does not waste any time and asks him, "Caerival, can you give us an idea of the sort of opposition that we might expect when we go to your forest?"

"I am afraid not. There are goblins in the woods like fleas on a dog. Everywhere there are signs, but I do not know their number or strength. If they are anything like the beasts of yesterday's calamity then I fear we should excersize extreme caution. Mayhaps we should inquire with the local law?"

Caerival snaps out of his brooding and sees Coppertop with a furled brow. "You fought well this day!" the Druid says and pats him on the back. "Let's go to the Rusty Dragon and celebrate that no lasting harm was wrought."

Caerival sighs deeply and then summons dear Gloam to his side. The druid takes a moment to inspect the goblins.

DM, please feel free to make whatever relevant check which may be required. I'm trying to see if Caerival can determine if these are part of the Seven Tooth Tribe (the goblins infesting Shank's Wood).

At some point Caerival will maneuver close to Coppertop and say, "It is more than coincidence that these otherwise unorganized vermin would stage such a coordinated attack on such an opportune eve do you not think?"

I will be out of town the next two days...assume Caerival is troubled by these events and remains a bit aloof while he ponders them.

Caerival confidently strides toward the center of the battle (G6) with his arms raised in reverence to the great forces of nature. He lets nature's vitality flow into him and then out in great waves of health.

Caerival burns goodberries to activate his spontaneous rejuvenation ability "all alies (including the nobleman) within 30 feet gain fast healing 1 for three rounds while they stay within range."

"Mmmehhh!" says Gloam

Caerival scratches the Donkey Rat between the ears and he tilts his head this way and that. "Patience my friend. Patience."

"Mhheeehhhh"

"Sorry...I think Gloam had an accident. The poor beast sometimes piddles when he's excited and I haven't let him out in a long time."

"We're ready."

"Filthy abomination!" Caerival curses as he incantates a simple spell, hoping to distract the rider.

Caerival moves to within 30' and casts Flare at the rider. Since I am near the end of the round and everyone will be moving about I will try to also stay with 30 feet of Coppertop if possible. Finally, if the rider is taken out, I will use the spell on the goblin closest to the nobleman.

As the party races after Coppertop towards the commotion Caerival says "Gentlemen, if the battle becomes more lethal try to remain close to me. I will summon nature's bounty which encourages healing."

"MMmeehhhhh," Gloam bays as if in agreement.

"Come Gloam, it seems there are more goblins to slay! While my magic is wanning I will lend what aid I can in the furtherance of their demise!"

Caerival follows Coppertop and Rel with a renewed gusto.

Caerval, CH is back. Check it out here.

Thanks my friend!

"I will be the first to take the pledge to help a new friend rid this world of those fowl beasts" says Rel. Seems there's some problems here with those little beasties we need to take care of first though" Rel addresses the whole group.

Caerival rouses out of a moment of reflection.

"Oh, yes, of course, that was my intent. I am prone to forgetting to complete my thoughts at times. Father Zantus, please tell us the city is safe or where we may help if not."

Coppertop wonders aloud “Does anyone know what that goblin was singing? Their language sounds like cats yowling to me.”

"No, but believe me, their singing is only marginally better than their...artistic abilities."

Caerival takes a deep breath.

"Gentlemen, I am loath to discuss such bitterness on what should be a joyous day, but recent events encourage me to bring up a plight of some import. Goblins have infested Shank's Wood just outside of town. I made the journey here today because, like an infection unchecked, they are growing more ruinous. Since it is obvious that you men are sharp of mind and skill in the pursuit of goblin-slaying, I would beseech aid in cleansing of my forest. Not today, and mayhap not on the morrow, but soon, I would like for you answer my plea."

Caerival approaches the two warriors. "Truly Coppertop, your age beguiles your adeptness with both arm and faith! Well done, young man."

The druid drops to one knee and makes a high pitched kissing sound. Faithful Gloam responds and gladly joins his master.

"Sir Etienne, your aim is no less accurate nor less deadly than the pernicious arrows from our trusty Talacyst and Rel. I am indeed fortunate that this company has arose on this occasion to rid the world of these foul goblins. Every death we inflict upon them makes the world a little bit more hale. We are goblin's lament."

"Father Zantus, please, tell us of the condition of the city and where there may be more goblins to dispatch!"

Arrows seem to be whizzing through the air as Caerival's companions concentrate their ranged firepower at the obvious leader of these arsonists. Caerival crosses in front of the goblin and uses his side stepping to lend momentum to his swing.

Caerival moves into D7 and swings at the singer Atk: (1d20+1=20) and dmg: (2d6+3=14)

Looks like everyone is going toward the left (as the characters face) so Caerival will move to C6 after he casts Shillelagh (he does not attempt the Create Water).

Caerival enters the scene with mounting dread - the druid hates wanton destruction by fire more than nasty little goblins! The combonation is unbearable.

"Gloam, stay!"

Does Caerival think that using Create Water would have any affect on the fires? Since it's fuel-based I'm guessing not... But if so the druid will cast Create Water on the 5ft which seems like it might mave the most threatening blaze.

If Create Water does not seem feasible, Caerival will cast Shillelagh on his quarterstaff.

Caerival will also move this round but (since I'm last) I will wait to see where everyone goes so as not to get in the way. The singer is my target unless anyone yells out some tactics.

"Master Talacyst, if I am to thank you for the sorcery that so magnified my stature I would beseech you to withold such a boon for the valiant, not the brash. Commrades, where there is smoke there is fire! While Master Coppertop speaks in sooth, I believe we should follow the source of this calamity to it's end!"

Assuming everyone is interested in seeking out the source of the smoke, Caerival beckons Gloam and heads south. If everyone would rather mill about the square to ensure no further goblins attack, Caerival will investigate the slain goblins for any recognizable tribal markings.

Still reeling over his new stature, Caerival takes a moment to see the results of his killing blow. Life and death, it is all natural. He quickly turns and sees his companions dispatching another pair of goblins nearby. Since they obviously have the situation well at hand (these men will definitely be sufficient to help cleanse Shank's Wood, he notes to himself), Caerival takes advantage of his viewpoint to scan the surrounding square and streets for any more trouble. Spot: (1d20+4=5) with +2 more for goblinoids...

This is my prepared action from the suprise round, then. It seems to me that increasing one size category will up the damage die to 1d8, and you'll also get a +2 to Strength, a -2 to Dex and a -1 to AC and attack rolls. See description here. I'm guessing you'll want to reroll your damage, since it's a new die type.

Caerival is surrounded by commotion - fleeing townspeople, charging companions, menacing goblins, and Talacyst saying something. As the druids swings, the world seems to diminish!

bless and +2 Str -> +2 to hit and now I have dmg: (1d8+3=11)

The crowd thins and the filthy little goblin bolts from behind the wagon, apparently unsure where to wreak havoc next. Caerival steps toward it and swings his staff with all the pent-up frustration he's felt these past few months.

Caerival moves to J6 and attacks with his quaterstaff 1d20=18 for a possible Damage (1d6+2=6)

If Goblin #1 is dispatched or otherwise unavailable on my turn I'll move to F4 and attack Goblin #2 with atk: (1d20=5) and dmg: (1d6+2=5)

Right on cue, a sharp retort, like the crack of distant thunder, slices through the excited crowd as the sun’s setting rays paint the western sky. A stray dog that has crawled under a nearby wagon to sleep starts awake, and the buzz of two dozen conversations quickly hushes as all heads turn toward the central podium, where a beaming Father Zantus has taken the stage. He clears his throat, takes a breath to speak...

Caerival senses something is not right and his grip tightens around his quarterstaff.

...when suddenly a woman’s scream slices through the air! A few moments later, another scream rises, then another. Beyond them, a sudden surge of strange new voices rises...high-pitched, tittering shrieks that sound not quite human. The crowd parts and something low to the ground races by, giggling with disturbing glee as the stray dog gives a pained yelp and then collapses with a gurgle, its throat cut open from ear to ear. As blood pools around its head, the raucous sound of a strange song begins, chanted from shrill, scratchy voices.

After an initial shock of realization, a primal fury swells through the druid as he spots the enemy of his forest. "Goblins! By the wagon!" he yells to no one in particular. Caerival charges toward the opposite side of the wagon where the little cowardly waste of life might try to duck.

Caerival moves straight to I5.

Caerival is not interested in all the selections of meats everyone seems to be pandering, but he wanders through the tables and booths admiring the assortment of breads, fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and the such. The druid even gives in to trying some goat's cheese from one pushy but not unpleasant young lass.

At some point Careival tries to get directions from Coppertop concening where he might be able to procure some fresh berries and teas.

By late afternoon, Caerival returns to the tree where Rel is lounging and tries to strike up some casual conversation. If engaged, Caerival attempts to discern if Rel would be useful in clearing Shank's Wood...

Let me know how much I need to spend for the berries and tea if they can be purchased.

"How did your meeting with Madame Mvashti go, if you don't mind my asking?"

"Not at all. Madame Mvashti lives up to her reputation...often those with an uncommon Gift cannot easily relieve the commonalty of their burdens. However, I feel through my time with her I recieved a benison of dire import and count my present company a comfort." Caerival scans his new found friends and bows. "For now, let us celebrate this day in its fullest!"

Caerival and Gloam make their way back toward the tree where Rel had been resting. Leaning on the hardwood allows the druid to feel more at ease amongst all the merriment. Caerival happily watches the joyous abandonment of the crowd.

If Talacyst is nearby, Caerival tries to catch his attention.

"Rel Pais, well met, I am Caerival, druid of Shank's Wood. I think most of us are at Master Coppertop's mercy, having just arrived in his lovely city. And what a fortuitous day indeed. I believe the swallowtails should be released soon!"

Gloam and Caerival both munch on rather brilliant carrots procured by the young cleric.

Careival wanders through town back toward the church in thoughtful silence.

But I sense something in you, Caerival. A strength and an endurance, like the oak tree. You vill do vell in protecting Shank's Vood, I think. But...perhaps you are meant for even greater things yes? I have foreseen dark times, a storm on the horizon.

And then the druid sees Coppertop in the square over by a vegetable stand, waving cheerfully.

"Talacyst, Gloam and I are heading over for a snack. Can I interest you in anything? I'd appreciate the company..."

"It may be that you, and you mage of the elves, vill have a role to play in the events as they unfold. It is not idle chance that you two have come to Sandpoint at this same time."

Caerival tries to remain chipper, but is also anxious to about the foreboding prospects for the future. Eh, maybe I'll gather these hardier folks and clear Shank's Wood, he thinks to himself.

"Talacyst, have you ever seen how frail a sapling is, bending this way and that with every breeze? Yet a mighty tree can withstand the worst Rovagug can rail against it! Given time, the sapling becomes the tree...I concur with Madam Mvashti. You have greatness in you and I am surely blessed to be able to share these times in your acquaintance."

Smiling Caerival bows and says "Madam, I hope to see you again soon. Shall I bring you anything next time?"

"Gloam, let's go see the swallowtail!"

Caerival, sighs thoughtfully. He has a lot to consider...

The druid pauses and turns toward Talacyst to see if the elf is as surprised as he is. Caerival notices Gloam and tries to discern if the donkey rat is pestering the wizard.

"Madam," Caerival bows deeply, "Shank's Wood appears to be in dire straights. First let me say that I have spent a few moons wandering it's great halls and marveling at it's groomed magnificence. I know not who the previous caretaker was or why I was called to this coastal sanctuary, but I am greatly humbled. The sounds of the sea and setting sun bask the land in majesty of no equal.

"I was forewarned that goblins were using the forest as their lair. Men unaccustomed to the patterns of life often find pursuit in thick woods daunting. Thus the foul little vermin have eluded any would-be justice. I have found their trails and located some of their camps. I have seen their passage to and fro. Alas, I have not confronted them since these vile monstrosities appear to be well supplied and even better armed!

"When the goblins grow restless they needlessly harm the woods and violate stone with despicable drawings. I clean and mend where I can, but something must be done.

"In desperation I ventured to neighboring Tickwood and spoke to Christabel. She encouraged me to seek you out for both advise and peace."

Caerival bows again, "Madam, forgive my impatience, but I often resort to tackling my anxiety harshly. To some extent I believe this is why I was asked to shepherd Shank's Wood through this trouble... How may I be of service to you?"

Gloam grows bored, wanders over to Talacyst and sniffs his leg.

With the patience of stone, Caerival enters with Gloam.

Surrounded by houses and so close to the noisy theater, Caerival is somewhat shocked that Madam Mvashti lives in what appears to be the center of town.

As cheerful as he can, Caerival turns to his companions and says, "This is indeed my destination. While it is not private, my intentions are to simply introduce myself to one so respected, and to offer her my services." To Talacyst, "So of course, you are more than welcome to remain." And to the everyone else, "Hopefully I will see you all again before sundown. Perhaps keep an eye out for me in case I should get lost." He laughs cautiously.

To the voice behind the door, "Revered Madam Mvashti, I am Caerival, the new druid of Shank's Wood. I am here to pay my respects."

The square appears to be emptying as the festivites get underway. Off in the distance a man appears to be waking from a stupor under a tree. That's a mighty fine tree for a city square...maybe Caerival should go over and whisper encouragement to his bark-brother?

To Talacyst: "Sorry good sir, excuse my lack of manners. I do not mean to stare...but I've never seen an elf before - mostly, my affairs are amongst the trees. Please join us, as I am especially interested in your acquaintance."

As Etienne and Coppertop (or Dylan was it?) discuss the festival, Caerival notices a seemingly out of place elf with silver hair observing them. The druid subtly steers the group toward the elf. He had never actually met an elf and as a newcomer himself, thought the fellow might need a friendly greeting.

Caerival meets Etienne's gaze and smiles softly while petting Gloam.

detect evil - nothing to see here :)

Caerival uses Knowledge(Nature) to try and remember anything he can about swallowtails: 1d20+6=9

"Coppertop, my interests lie with Madame Mvashti. If we could please meander in that general direction, I would love to hear more about this Swallowtail Festival."

To Etienne, "A man of faith is the heart of the community he serves. I serve only leaf and branch, and alas, my story is not so noble or grand. However, a man such as yourself must surely have epics the bards recite in taverns far and wide!"

Caerival bows his head slightly and says "Well met, gentleman, and a special greetings to you, young man. I am Caerival, Druid of Shank's Wood and this is Gloam, my faithful donkey rat. Today is a fortuitous day as we are indeed newcomers and the splendors of this celebration fill my senses with delight." Caerival bows again toward the older men and then looks to Coppertop. "Sir, if you would be so kind as to help me get my bearings, I have business in this city and would appreciate a guide lest I get lost amongst the wonders. Fore although I am in no particular hurry, I am not often amongst so many...people."

As the vibrant young man wanders through the crowd toward the gentleman that looks like a knight, Caerival notices the lad admiring Gloam. Since he needs directions to Madame Mvashti's abode, the druid slowly follows in attempt to gain his attention.

Upon entering the town, Caerival is at first dismayed at all the people. Gloam senses his master's apprehension and keeps himself pressed against the druid's leg. As the pair makes their way through the throng of revelers, the new Sandpoint Cathedral catches their attention. Here stands a holy place dedicated to Gozreh and Erastil! Maybe Sandpoint is not so bad after all?

Caerival absentmindedly ruffles the hair between Gloam's ears as the celebration escalates. Despite the hustle and bustle of this urban congestion, Caerival intentionally allows a peace like the morning stillness to calm his resolve. He begins to focus on the source of the crowd's attention. Evidently this is an unusually special day.

The speaker concludes his exposition and Caerival takes a moment to scan the crowd. A head taller than most folks and as still as a oak, Caerival watches the crowd begin to disperse and congeal into smaller groups. The festivities must be just beginning!

A formidable looking armored man approaches the fourth speaker. Caerival notices several people taking note of the man, including a young lad with hair as copper as a sunset over the gulf. He smiles warmly at the vitality of unbridled youth.

...I know I'm not as handsome as you guys...but come on, I don't look like a donkey rat.

FYI, here is a picture of Gloam, although my guy is white as snow.

CH: I don't want to tread on your Core-only rule...so just call it as you see it.

DF, the best thing to do is to create a character sheet under Caerival's profile, as the other players have done. It makes it really easy for me to refer to the sheet, and it keeps this thread from getting too cluttered.

BTW, I've been thinking it over, and I think it would be best if we keep things a little simpler, and just stick to an animal companion for Caerival. I think the donkey rat is a great choice.

I thought of that on my way in to work thins morning - doh!

DONE!!!

so...are we going to post everything here? I'm ready but I don't want to if we're not suppose to.

5. DitheringFool - Variant Druid

Here I am - I'm working on the stats and character history...

OK, I know you're aiming for CORE but can I have a Plant for an animal companion (from Dragon #357)...according to this thread it is not overpowered. If you are not familiar with the article...maybe I could lend you mine.