F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Alexander's firm promise to come for her when the time came gladdened her heart and she smiled, as their heads touched, Alex's arms around her. She put the moment to memory for it would have to last until that day came.
At Nedyr's and Markov's words, the priestess bowed her head in humble gratitude. "Thank you for your kind words and well wishes."
As Rowena moved to her horse to ready herself, she heard Alexander's own prayer for their safety and she turned and lovingly smiled at him. "I will pray for you every day" and turning to the other males mindfully added, "All of you."
To Mikmek and the other kobolds, she declared earnestly, "You are in capable hands, with these three fine gentlemen. I wish your tribe prosperity and a successful alliance with my companions. Trust in one another and be true to your word through your deeds. May villains such as Tartuk never profit from the goodness of the people of these wild lands."
Ro will only take a small portion of Tartuk's gold coin the group was given by Chief Sootscale as reward (she isn't greedy - only takes what is fair)... and will repay her small debt re the coin for the mite stealing back the statue.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena had pulled Alexander to the side, for a private word, before Mikmek returned with Crackjaw. He deserved to be told before the others.
She explained to him what was in her heart and mind and the significant decision she had made. She took off his signet ring and returned it to him as he would need it for missives home and such in the days and months to come. She did not need a trinket to feel the way she did about him -- even such a promise ring.
In whispered explanation she added, "If, at the end of this exploration, you still feel the same for me, then write me, or come to me. If, at the end, another wins your heart, then follow your path with no regret." Rowena gently brushed his face with her hand, a fine sheen of tears glistening in her light green eyes, before rising on her tiptoes and softly kissing his cheek.
Composing herself and moving back to the group, she listened as Tassira spoke of her own desire to return home. It seemed fate was to lead them away from this adventure to another.
"I, too, will be leaving, to return to my village and my duties among my community. I have felt a strong pull - perchance a divine call from my god. I have learned much in my short time in these lands and among companions both old and new. I will take the experiences with me, and, who knows, maybe one day our paths may cross, again. May Erastil keep you safe as you explore these wild lands and discover your true purpose."
Rowena's eyes gently/lovingly brushed across Alexander's face before falling on Tassira's.
"Tass, perhaps we may travel together for a time, until our paths diverge. I would like that, if you are amiable...", Rowena awaited the noble sorceress' reply.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
So, we're waiting on the appearance of Crackjaw? I don't think we need to be around for the kobolds to test their traps ... If they are setting these things for (an invisible) Tartuk, then wouldn't it make sense they use another kobold to spring the trap rather than a horse? Shrugs.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
At Markov's thanks, she humbly inclined her head. Alexander's idea of chalk and flour held merit and she agreed with the others that it was clever against an invisible enemy.
"My healing magic has restored any of the group who were injured so there is no need to wait for Mikmek's return. Unless you would like Crackjaw(whom he's bringing)to lead us into the mite tree to smooth waters before we converse with their leader...?"
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
"Your tribe stood up to Tartuk's pet honourably this day. And you can do so again, if the charlatan returns. But as my companion, Tassira, offered up in battle, Tartuk is a coward. You now possess the knowledge that his summoned creature is no god and thus you can overpower it with force without fear of divine wrath. As to the mites, it will be harder to reason with them since you have had them caged and we stole the tribe statue from them, but as my companion Nedyr has kindly offered, we can mediate between your clans and I believe peace can be found again now that Tartuk is in no position of power."
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena called all of her allies that were injured to gather around her lifting her silver holy symbol, and then calling upon Erastil, channelled positive energy, three times.
Returning 10 HP to all the injured within 30 ft of her bursts.
4/5 times used. One more channel remaining for the day.
Upon pronouncement that Tartuk's treasure was theirs now, Rowena moved to the pot and looked inside but could not determine the contents and looked over the other items, listening to what Nedyr discovered in the soiled leather bag and beneath it.
Spellcraft (DC 15):1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12Fail
She looked over the written text.
Linguistics:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15
"I cannot read the language, here. Perhaps one of the mites may translate for us. If they cannot, I can memorise a spell on the morrow which will allow me to read the book."
Looking at the Elven boots, she quietly stated, "Nedyr will probably make the most of these boots, so they should be his. The coin will shall distribute evenly among us and the other items -- speak up and it will be considered."
When Nedyr talked of an alliance with the Kobolds, Rowena wondered when he had become the speaker for the group but permitted him to speak on their behalf, for the notion was a sound one. When he was done, she simply added, "For the welfare of the good creatures of these lands, we should foster a continued alliance, Chief Sootscale. We ask that there be no more warring with the mites. Tartuk and his false god who was summoned creature misled your people and now they are gone. Let there be peace."
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena holds her silver holy symbol and begins to Channel, hoping to help those of her allies who have been wounded; being mindful not to include any enemy - such as the Eidolon or Tartuk. Then she takes another 5 ft step back to ensure she has distance between herself and the Eidolon.
Channel Positive Energy, has Selective Channeling (can exclude 2 targets from area of channel):1d6 ⇒ 6
So, all her (wounded) allies within a 30-foot radius centered on Ro, regain 6 HP.
Ro calls out to all allies present, "We need to find Tartuk. If we can kill him, the creature will vanish with him."
(Active Effects: Shield of Faith (on Ro) AC 15, Bless +1 on attacks, Channel Positive Energy 1 out of 5 times used this day.)
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Agree with Alex's summation above. I also assumed the kobolds would at least help -- Mikmek being an ally now to the group. But I haven't seen an action from him or any of his tribe, even after Alex told them that Sharptooth was no god but a summoned creature in Draconic. Ro confirmed it in Common which Mikmek would have understood, too.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Spellcraft (DC 16):1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26
Hearing Alexander speak in the tongue of the Kobolds, Rowena related what she knew to the rest of her companions. "Tartuk is a Summoner and he has summoned a beast to fight for him. Old Sharptooth is no god! May Erastil guide us!"
Rowena cast Shield of Faith on herself (AC now 15, lasts 1 minute), taking a 5 ft step back away from the Eidolon.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
I echo Tassira's sentiments, above. The story and backdrop flavour (via the GM) were missing for me -- and like Tass, made it harder and harder for me, as a player, to feel invested and inspired to post. I am appreciative of the fact that KenderKin took over the game at short notice when we lost our original GM, Aneirin, as I am sure the other original players feel as well.
At this time, I am taking my leave from the game, too.
I enjoyed playing alongside Tass, Alex, Nedyr and Markov. The new guys brought a fresh spark to the team dynamic (great rp, guys!) and for that I am grateful. I hope to see you around the boards and best of luck to all. :)
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
KenderKin, when we first encountered the new guys in game and set off to find the moonradishes, Rowena, Tassira and Nedyr already rped with Mikmek (and Markov) to teach them Draconic. Your npc just never replied to the request. ;)
Ro wrote:
Sun, Aug 2, 2015, 02:21 pm
Curious about Markov, she turned to face the man and gently asked, "Perhaps you may teach me the kobold's language as we travel together? I have a wish to learn it and it appears you have the capacity to teach me, Markov. What say you, sir?"
Not wanting to appear rude to Mikmek, she bowed her head and added to the kobold, "I would be happy to learn from both of you. You will find me an eager pupil."
Diplo with Mikmek: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28
Tass wrote:
"I'd love to learn it too, sir." Tassira nods. "From either one of you."
Nedyr wrote:
"And I wouldn't mind learning a few words in Kobold myself, seems only prudent."
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena's euphoria as she rode beside Alexander was soon replaced with a little trepidation at their impending confrontation with Tartuk. When Tassira asked her if she was ready, Rowena simply gave a nod, not trusting her voice, and followed behind the others into the dark tunnel. She hoped they could sway the kobold tribe to turn against Tartuk -- They had the statue now and even though the priestess did not believe in Old Sharptooth or recognised him as a true god, she knew the significance of the statue to the tribe and that was enough for now.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Her thoughts and attention were entirely centred on Alexander.
Alexander only:
Inside her palm lay Alexander's signet ring and for a moment she was unable to speak. The sentiments he had shared with her -- of her nobility through deeds and his admiration and respect for her brought a shimmer of tears to her crystalline eyes.
She dared look into his eyes, even as her own swam with collected tears. Her voice was so soft as she gave her reply,
"You bestow this family ring unto me as a promise? Your words alone gladdened my heart and restored my spirits. This ring honours me and I earnestly accept it and will wear it upon my hand. I will keep it safe for you." This formal show of their courtship was unexpected, yet quickened her pulse, made her heart hammer in her chest.
The signet ring looked too big for her ring fingers, so she placed it upon the thumb of her right hand, where it lay more securely, and looked upon the Medyved insignia and then into Alexander's sea blue eyes. A soft, incredulous smile spread across her lips and brightened her face. Alexander had made a formal promise to her and she suddenly wished she could reach across the distance between their horses and kiss his lips. Yet, practicality and decorum (and inexperience) held her in her saddle. There would be time for affection -- much time -- she was certain of it.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
At the insistence of Alexander that the mite's behaviour was nothing more than desperation to distance himself from their association, Rowena pushed aside her pressing concern and followed the others away from the Sycamore Tree.
She listened as Markov and Nedyr queried the authenticity of the statue in their possession with Mikmek. Good, he should know the real thing from a copy.
As they rode, she noticed Alexander pushing his mount closer to her own and drew his head nearer so he could speak to her privately.
Alexander only:
At his revelation that he valued her more precious than gold, Rowena blushed and looked to her hands holding the reins. He believed Tassira felt similarly, although not in the same manner.
Her voice caught a little at the words but she managed to quietly relay to him her true feelings, "You honour me, Alexander. And humble me in the same breath. I do not want you to feel that I have aligned myself, my feelings with yours, for the position of your family, or their wealth. I am a village priestess, and, as such we do not see nor expect too many gold coins to fill our coffers. I felt ashamed when I could not give as much as the rest, for it was only fair that I should. I want to repay Tassira's generosity ... and I will once I can earn some coin." She stopped and she looked upon the nobleman with shy crystal-green eyes. In a smaller voice, she added, "I do not want you to feel ashamed of me for my lack of fortune. Your good opinion and Tassira's means a great deal to me."
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena's hand came to rest gently on Tassira's arm, and she leaned in closer to speak quietly to the noble sorceress, "I do not reject your generosity, Tass. I simply like to pay my own way." A small, self-conscious smile played across her lips.
When Tass and Markov both spoke up to put more coin in to cover her deficit, she was grateful but still uneasy.
"Thank you" she directed to the both of them.
When the mite came forth with the large bundle, and she heard him ask for one of them to come forward to pay him, Rowena asked politely,
"Please unwrap the bundle so we may see the statue, first."
Diplomacy with Mite:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11
Her tone could have been sweeter and she wondered if her previous embarrassment had effected the delivery of her request.
And she scrutinised the creature, attempting to get a feel of what character/nature he possessed .. If he was trustworthy since not that long ago he was the kobold's captive and rather distressed.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena faced flushed at the sum the mite requested they pay for his service to take the statue. Being a rather poor cleric, she could not afford the ten gold pieces and took her coin pouch and drew out only five gold pieces. "I apologise, but I can only give five gold coins. I do not have much coin." Rowena dared not look at the others, especially Alexander and Tassira, who came from noble, well-to-do families; her embarrassment plain to see.
She handed her meagre coin to the collector before setting forth for the Sycamore Tree.
As they waited for the mite to return with the statue, Rowena silently listened to her companion's small talk until the creature returned with the ragged bundle in his hands.
As he was opening it, she waited to see what the statue of Old Sharptooth looked like, and occasionally lifted her eyes, scanning the surrounds for threat. She noticed Alexander was already watching, and she attempted to aid him as best as she could.
Perception to aid Alex:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
However, it seemed she was more eager/curious to lay eyes on what held such sway over the kobolds that she could not locate anything of note in their surroundings. She felt a little miserable in that, too, as she already could not give the full ten gold coins the others had.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Linguistics:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11
Not understanding the mite's tongue and attempting to grasp a modicum of meaning all the same, Rowena still could not determine what the creature was saying, even with her ear for languages.
Turning to Mikmek and hoping the kobold, who was friend to the mites, would understand, asked him plainly but respectfully, "What is the mite saying, please?"
She attempted to calm the creature while she waited on Mikmek's answer, using hand gestures and soothing sounds to relay her meaning, holding out/offering one of the moonradishes (from her basket).
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Sense Motive:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20
Rowena understood Mikmek's purpose well enough for requesting the mite's release. She would share her thoughts quietly with the others once they had exited the mine and had some privacy. (People can read the spoilers once we're out of the cave as though Rowena directly shared her thoughts with her own party (but not in front of Mikmek or the freed mite).)
"Chief Sootscale, we have found Mikmek very astute in this matter, so far. Please heed his counsel. The sooner we leave with the freed mite for the Sycamore Tree, the sooner we may return with the statue."
Diplomacy for continuing good will:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
"I am in agreement with Tassira. The statue of the one they call 'Old Sharptooth' must be retrieved first." This false god held a sway over the kobolds and whether she believed in Old Sharptooth or not, it did not matter. Their faith in him was fixed at this point.
Turning her focus back to the Kobold Chieftain, "Chief Sootscale, you did not say why the mites took it from your tribe. Is it because of the war between your respective people? Wouldn't it be better to simply release the captured mite out of good will and open the way for peaceful talks between you and the mites?"
Mikmek and Crackjaw were friendly enough. Once the kobolds shared a good relationship with the mites. It was Tartuk who ruined the peace from what Mikmek had told them of the current animosity. Could the kobolds and mites not be made to see they are better off as allies?
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena took in the bloody depictions of the sharp-toothed reptilian on the inner walls and her thoughts strayed to Tartuk's god Old Sharptooth. She shivered slightly.
As the Half-Elven adventurer had done moments before, she respectfully inclined her head and spoke in a steady and cordial manner, her voice low for the sake of discretion as she was not sure where Tartuk was in the cave interior,
"Well met, Chief Sootscale. I am Priestess Rowena Hunter. We have been told of a religious kobold among you, the one called Tartuk and of his god. Mikmek has brought to your cave so we may speak and provide aid, if you would accept our service."
She wondered how much of the Common tongue the leader of the kobolds understood, and attempted to speak as plainly as possible so as to not confuse him with flowery speeches.
Perception:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11
Diplomacy to influence:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19 Sense Motive on answer/reception from Chief:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena listened, silently, atop her horse. Her eyes kept straying to the caged mite and she wished she could open the cage and let him out. Dismounting, she tethered him to a large, leafy tree, a short distance back from the entrance of the mine.
She did not interrupt the others as they talked among themselves. Her eyes gazed at the guards and entrance. She watched as Mikmek lit torches and Markov follow the kobold into the mine. With weapons upon her person, she entered behind Tassira; wondering how Tartuk would react to their presence.
Silently she prayed to Erastil, //"Let us show this deceiver what a true god can do."//
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena remained silent as she found the kobold's limited command of the Common tongue rather difficult to understand. She would not hold it against the creature -- indeed, she employed patience. Yet, her desire to learn the Draconic tongue only grew more important; it would be imperative to speak easily if they were to have ongoing ties with the kobold tribe.
Rowena cast her glance toward the Sycamore tree that Crackjaw declared was his home. To the mite, she replied gently, "Once we have spoken to the Chief of the Kobold tribe and sorted out the issue of Tartuk, we can return and meet your people, Crackjaw."
As it was agreed upon that they would tackle Tartuk first, Rowena (and her horse) kept pace with Tassira on her mount.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Personally, I would get frustrated having to ask the NPC to consistently explain their broken Common in game. That isn't much fun and kind of a waste of time and energy in rp.
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
KenderKin, Rowena was looking for tracks inside the cave to determine who has been in and out of the cave. Anything to say on her check/roll?
Ro wrote:
She looked about the floor of the cave, using Alex's magical lights to aid her endeavour -- searching for tracks and or any signs of recent activity/movement within the cave.
Survival for tracking: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15 (Add +2 to total if the tracks are human)
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Unfortunately no Know. Dungeoneering or Prof. Miner, here.
Rowena turned to Alexander, her voice still low, "Alex, please note the location of this gold mine on your map."
The pick axe was worrisome as it meant someone had found the cave already and claimed it. Still, they did not know if the person or creature was alive or dead.
Raw INT check re caves and mining:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5Well, that's useless...
She looked about the floor of the cave, using Alex's magical lights to aid her endeavour -- searching for tracks and or any signs of recent activity/movement within the cave.
Survival for tracking:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15(Add +2 to total if the tracks are human)
F Human Cleric 1/Ranger (Divine Tracker) 1 [HP: 20/20 | AC: 13 (17 vs ranged while prone) T: 11 FF: 12 | F: +4 R: +3 W: +5| Init: +1, Perc: +6]
Rowena was unsure about taking her horse inside the dark cave. She had only recently learned to ride, yet she was uncertain how her horse would take to being led into such a closed place. So she dismounted and tethered it to a sturdy tree to the side of the cave entrance.
She approached quietly and came to stand just behind (and to the side of) Nedyr, Markov, the kobold and the mite.
Even though Markov did not seem concerned with keeping his voice low in case someone/something was hiding within the darkness, did not mean she wanted any attention to drawn to her presence. Too many times they were caught out by a hidden trap.
In lowered voice she instructed the two newcomers, "You may want to check for traps before you enter. I would not see you impaled or worse as you venture beyond the opening. And quietly as you go. I am no expert in caves, yet, I advise caution."
As Markov remarked that he would tie his rope to something, Rowena pointed to the larger rocks/boulders to the side of the cave or the saplings a little before the opening.
Stealth:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19 Perception of surrounds:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25(Can Ro see anything untoward/strange near the entrance or hear any sounds coming from within the cave?
