The Priestess Bride : Endgame

Post by **Locknar** » Thu Jun 13, 2024 9:39 pm

Inconceivable!
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:41pm

"Ten Tokes, don't eat that!" Trask shouts aloud as he rises from his seat.

In a flash, the soldier lunges, arm whipping out to slap the grub from the chieftan's grasp. But Double Trouble, a whirlwind of movement, slams into the soldier, catching his arm mid-swing with surprising reflexes.

Double Trouble, our twin cigar chomping koala guard, growls dangerously. Trask rapidly explains, and lo his grasp of this wolfen dialect is perfect, "My danger sense is going off, and someone else is watching what is happening. I think Humperdink planned to betray you. There is a raven outside watching this whole thing."

"What, where?!" the wizard Granas exclaims.
"Vut?" Echoes Mürrischer in disbelief.

Their eyes dart towards the branches, soon spotting the raven. Just as Granas mutters the incantation for a Magic Net spell, a nagging suspicion blooms in his mind. The Ciggie of Peace, he realises, might've blocked his own danger sense. What else could it be dampening?

The net materialises in a flash, whooshing towards a very startled bird. With surprising agility, the raven reacts, diving off the branch just a hair's breadth too late. The netting snags one of its claws, and it flaps furiously, dangling upside down like a trapped galah.

"Inconceivable!" the raven squawks, its voice dripping with indignation.

The trapped raven dangles precariously from the magical net which hangs on a twig no thicker than a one's thumb. It is a good fifteen feet from the window, far too flimsy for anyone to venture out there without flight. Not even a gnome could navigate that spindly branch.

Mürrischer peers at the creature's aura and sees a high level creature and the presence of magic and high P.P.E.

Meanwhile Alwin eyes the roasted grub with suspicion. Armed with his knowledge of poisons he inspects the grub with the meticulousness of a jeweler appraising a diamond. He searches for telltale glints of powders or suspicious fluids clinging to its surface. He scrutinises it for any tiny puncture marks, a potential gateway for a hidden venom. Finally, he brings the grub close to his nose, inhaling deeply. The only scent that greets him is a curious mix of smoky char and something vaguely… sweet?

No. Not a poison that he can discern. And so he holds the grub above his head and drops it into his mouth.

Alwin perhaps expected a bland, earthy flavor. But instead, a burst of unexpected deliciousness explodes on his tongue – a strange mix of sweet and smoky that is oddly compelling. As he begins to chew, a tingling sensation races through his body, a fizzing that starts in his toes and climbs all the way up to his scalp.

The world lurches around him. At first, Alwin thinks the ground is rising to meet him, and the trees about him are towering impossibly high. Then, with a sickening realisation, it becomes clear. He isn't growing taller; he is shrinking! As he looks down at his hands, he sees they are now impossibly delicate and tipped with tiny, glistening claws. They aren't hands anymore, they are… appendages? His skin, once smooth and pale, is hardening into a horrifying shade of puke green, a colour that nature usually reserves for particularly noxious mold. Four more spindly legs, as if in a spider nightmare, erupt from his back. They twitch uncontrollably.

Within moments Alwin, a once-proud elf, finds himself transformed into a particularly plump, six-legged monstrosity, no more than a half inch long.

Alwin, now the size of a modest grape, can only let out a pathetic squeak of frustration as he scuttles clumsily across the rough wooden floor.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Tongues 4min | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 214/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 4min
Ivy: 18/22 H.P., 23/23 S.D.C., 27/41 I.S.P. | Armor: Cloak of Protection (AR 14 : 33/150 SDC)
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Fri Jun 14, 2024 3:40 pm

Perception: 1d100: [74] = 74 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [25] = 25 / 1d20: [6] = 6

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 214/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye moves to observe the Raven from a perch but otherwise does nothing else.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [39] = 39 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [42] = 42 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [25] = 25 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills
Lore, Demons and Monsters: 1d100: [52] = 52 /72% [What is this Raven? A Cobbler?]

Post

When Granas' Magic Net captures the Raven by the talon, Granas can't help but smile at the vocal exasperation from the Raven. Ha! Got ya! Granas thinks with a smile in the moment as the words echo around him. 'Ha! Got ya!' Granas shakes his head again. "I'm still not used to that." Granas mutters to himself with a half-smile. His smile evaporates when the Raven squawks in an actual language.

Raven wrote:"Inconceivable!"

"What? It speaks!" Granas exclaims. The wizard currently focused on the Raven and unaware of Alwin's predicament. "You aren't going anywhere." Granas says aloud to the Raven and reaches out his hand, casting Constrain Being [20 PPE] on the temporarily trapped bird before it has a chance to escape. "Stay where you are." Granas connects the simple command to his spell. Granas also takes this moment to refresh his Tongues [12 PPE] spell to prevent it from lapsing.

Looking back to Ten-Tokes. "This Raven speaks, and was apparently spying on us. We should confine it and question it together..." Granas pauses as his eyes rest on where Alwin used to be. "Where is Alwin?" Granas asks, squinting his eyes in confusion at how Alwin could've vanished in the moments it took Granas to net the Raven. Granas looks to Ten-Tokes.

*Granas will recast Constrain Being if the first one doesn't take.

Mürrischer Reisender · Sat Jun 15, 2024 10:39 pm

Perception: 1d100: [20] = 20 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [18] = 18 / 1d100: [5] = 5

Locknar wrote: ↑Thu Jun 13, 2024 9:39 pmThe trapped raven dangles precariously from the magical net which hangs on a twig no thicker than a one's thumb. It is a good fifteen feet from the window, far too flimsy for anyone to venture out there without flight. Not even a gnome could navigate that spindly branch.

Mürrischer peers at the creature's aura and sees a high level creature and the presence of magic and high P.P.E.

Be lucky I like ravens. He stares at the raven that he now very strongly doubts is properly just a raven. He asks the raven as though he has seen a truth, "Vut magic is dat? And don't lie."

Granas wrote: ↑Fri Jun 14, 2024 3:40 pm"What? It speaks!" Granas exclaims. The wizard currently focused on the Raven and unaware of Alwin's predicament. "You aren't going anywhere." Granas says aloud to the Raven and reaches out his hand, casting Constrain Being [20 PPE] on the temporarily trapped bird before it has a chance to escape. "Stay where you are." Granas connects the simple command to his spell. Granas also takes this moment to refresh his Tongues [12 PPE] spell to prevent it from lapsing.

"More fully than a normal raven at least." He gives minor correction to Granas with a glance in his direction but not letting the raven out of sight.

Alwin seemingly disappearing right as he isn't looking at him but after he knows he consumed something he potentially shouldn't have. And what magic bullshit is that Elf up to? "Vut did dat Elf eat?"

He may or may not locate the weevil and identify it as Alwin as he takes a look around for him, sniffing as his head turns for his scent should it suggest he is still in the room. He takes a quick peek out to see if there were more coming or recently overlooked as he does as well.

Recognize scent of others: 1d100: [23] = 23 /32%
Detect Ambush: 1d100: [87] = 87 /55%

Alwin · Post by **Alwin** » Mon Jun 17, 2024 11:26 am

Perception: 37% vs 1d100: [36] = 36
JIC: 1d20: [16] = 16 and 1d100: [10] = 10

Conditions:

Skills

Magic General Knowledge: 55% vs 1d100: [70] = 70 - Try to figure out what kind of magic was used on him.

Post

Alwin looks up from the floor at everyone around him trying to speak but only hears himself chirp, Great! Just great!

"Great! Just great!" Hearing his voice he is relieved, seems the effects of the cigar are still here. What kind of magic is this?

"seems the effects of the cigar are still here. What kind of magic is this?" The elf looks around to see if anyone can hear the voice of if it too has been reduced in size. Please gods no, please don't step on me! the elf looks around at the koala's and realizes being stepped on isn't eh only danger and his thoughts continue, or eat me! Do these bear things eat bugs? What am I thinking... I just ate a bug, of course they eat bugs. Now I am a bug. they might eat me! I hope I give them indigestion if they do!

"Please gods no, please don't step on me! or eat me! Do these bear things eat bugs? What am I thinking... I just ate a bug, of course they eat bugs. Now I am a bug. They might eat me! I hope I give them indigestion if they do!"

The assassins thoughts run away for a bit, I'm being punished for doing good. Something father would have done to me. I'm a fool. There is no good that comes from doing good. This sucks. Now I'm going to be some bears pre-diner snack.

"I'm being punished for doing good. Something father would have done to me. I'm a fool. There is no good that comes from doing good. This sucks. Now I'm going to be some bears pre-diner snack."

The weevil's head darts back and forth hoping someone will notice it and put it on the table, maybe there is a way to counter the spell... will anyone even care?

"Maybe there is a way to counter the spell... will anyone even care?"

Mürrischer Reisender · Mon Jun 17, 2024 11:36 pm

[Rolls carried]

Alwin wrote: ↑Mon Jun 17, 2024 11:26 am"seems the effects of the cigar are still here. What kind of magic is this?" The elf looks around to see if anyone can hear the voice of if it too has been reduced in size. Please gods no, please don't step on me! the elf looks around at the koala's and realizes being stepped on isn't eh only danger and his thoughts continue, or eat me! Do these bear things eat bugs? What am I thinking... I just ate a bug, of course they eat bugs. Now I am a bug. they might eat me! I hope I give them indigestion if they do!

If anything, his keen canine hearing hears the aloud thinking of Alwin, causing an ear and then his head to turn toward the sound of the shrunken voice of the seemingly missing Elf. "I hear his bickering, but nein see him."

"You learn not to put weird fings in yer mouth?"

Alwin wrote: ↑Mon Jun 17, 2024 11:26 amThe weevil's head darts back and forth hoping someone will notice it and put it on the table, maybe there is a way to counter the spell... will anyone even care?

"Dis kreator is stwange, ja?" He points out the pacing weevil and picks it up with two fingers, staring at the tiny creature. "Are you who I'm looking for?"

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Tue Jun 18, 2024 3:30 pm

Granas wrote: ↑Fri Jun 14, 2024 3:40 pm Perception: 1d100: [74] = 74 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [25] = 25 / 1d20: [6] = 6

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 214/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye moves to observe the Raven from a perch but otherwise does nothing else.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [39] = 39 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [42] = 42 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [25] = 25 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills
Lore, Demons and Monsters: 1d100: [52] = 52 /72% [What is this Raven? A Cobbler?]

New Skills
Lore, Magic, Recognize Enchantment: 1d100: [65] = 65 /77% [What enhancement is affecting Alwin and can it be cured]

Post

Mürrischer wrote:"I hear his bickering, but nein see him."

When Alwin's inner thoughts become vocalized around them, though without seeing him, Granas looks to everyone. "No one move! Alwin has been bewitched somehow! We have to find him and avoid hurting him. He must still be here if we can hear his thoughts through the Bareleaf." Granas exclaims before he pauses and looks towards Ten Tokes. "And unless you are immune to such effects, I suspect you were the target, Chief, and this Raven was going to attempt to snatch you up." Granas suggests. Granas thinks hard on what sort of enchantment could have done this and if it can be cured.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Sun Jun 23, 2024 7:55 am

Perception: 1d100: [60] = 60 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [19] = 19 , 1d100: [89] = 89
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Language: Other: Wolfen 1d100: [87] = 87 /15% (To speak to the Koala Men.)

Trask looks to Double Trouble, and makes the universal sign of concession. The words to apologize seeming to fly straight from the grizzled Trask's mind. When Alwin eats the grub, Trask shakes his head, then does a double take as the Half-Wizard shrinks and transforms into an innocuous Weevil. "And this folks is why you don't taste test possibly poisoned or cursed foods." Trask says as he looks back to the now snared raven. "Cobbler Goblin... I saw one turn into a Raven once, I assume they all can." Trask says. "Let's beat on it till it tells us what we need to know." Trask says with a smirk. Trask will make his way outside to where the bird is snared. "So you want to do the easy way or the hard way?"

Post by **Locknar** » Wed Jul 03, 2024 9:10 pm

Buggin' Out
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:44pm

Trask signs for peace as Double Trouble prepares to smite the man, and the koala pauses long enough to realise no harm is intended. Trask tries to add a few words, but words fail him and he instead speaks a smattering of wolfen gibberish. The attention of all is drawn to the raven spy in their midst.

The trapped raven squawks indignantly as it flutters frantically to free its leg from the magical netting. Granas, eyes narrowed, unleashes another spell. With a muttered word of magical energy a tendril snakes out towards the bird. The spell is Constrain Being, a handy little spell for keeping lesser supernatural creatures in check. The raven keeps fluttering, and so Granas casts it again. This second attempt seems much more effective, the raven's frantic struggles suddenly cease, and it goes rigid. A moment later, its head lolls limply, and it still. It seems the feathered fiend has fainted – or perhaps the spell had simply overloaded its tiny, avian brain.

Granas wrote: ↑Fri Jun 14, 2024 3:40 pm Looking back to Ten-Tokes. "This Raven speaks, and was apparently spying on us. We should confine it and question it together..."

Ten Tokes' eyes bulge like a startled wombat. He swivels his head, taking in the sight of the netted raven and then Granas' grim expression. A low whistle escape his lips.

"A bloody talking crow? Spying on us?" He scratches his chin thoughtfully. "Humperdinck had some odd animal companions following him into the jungle. Maybe they're like this one?"

To koala chieftan's voice hardens. "Grilling it for information sounds fair dinkum to me."

As the wizard refreshes his Tongues spell our wolfen friend Mürrischer scolds the raven, rightly wondering as to its true nature.

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Sat Jun 15, 2024 10:39 pm He asks the raven as though he has seen a truth, "Vut magic is dat? And don't lie."

Mürrischer's line of questioning is derailed by two things; the fact the raven is unconscious, and a voiced thought coming out of nowhere...

Alwin wrote: ↑Mon Jun 17, 2024 11:26 am "Great! Just great!"

Everyone's eyes dart towards the source – which seems to be a plump, green beetle perched on the rough stone floor. Alas poor Alwin, a once-proud elven man, is now shrunk to the size of a plump grape and grotesquely transformed. Despite the situation, he realises some benefits; he has wings, and his feet sure seem secure on the flooring. He imagines he can scuttle up a wall and hang from a ceiling without issue. He considers what manner of magic has changed him so, but he draws a blank.

As Alwin ponders his new predicament he doesn't register the giant furry hand reaching down towards him. In a moment Alwin finds himself scooped up by a massive paw. Is it the hungry koala he fears? His multifaceted bug eyes stare up at rows of enormous, gleaming teeth, and he feels a flicker of terror akin to Little Red Riding Hood facing the wolf.

Fortunately he finds himself confronted by the concerned face of Mürrischer.

Meanwhile, Granas, our wizard, recognises it as a form of metamorphosis spell. Such things are temporary as far as he knows, though he's never before seen such an effect administered through eating a presumably enchanted bug. Everyone eyeballs Alwin in his new form, sitting the the palm of Mürrischer's hand.

Rigel raises an eyebrow, trying to stifle a smirk. "Well, well, well. Looks like someone traded his pointy ears for some fancy antennae. What kind of bug are you? Are you a cockroach?" His voice holds a hint of amusement, and he strains to see what manner of insect Mürrischer holds. The perceptive among you see there's also a flicker of concern in his eyes.

The netted raven remains a silent captive. It hangs limply, one leg tangled in the magical net like a bizarre tree ornament. The branch that holds the net sways precariously in the breeze, a good fifteen feet from the window. Everyone can see a fair tumble awaits the raven if the flimsy branch gives way.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Tongues 1min | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 162/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 40min
Ivy: 18/22 H.P., 23/23 S.D.C., 27/41 I.S.P. | Armor: Cloak of Protection (AR 14 : 33/150 SDC)
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Thu Jul 04, 2024 9:47 am

Perception: 1d100: [24] = 24 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [24] = 24 / 1d20: [2] = 2

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 162/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye moves to observe the Raven from a perch but otherwise does nothing else.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [22] = 22 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [45] = 45 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [100] = 100 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Ten Tokes wrote:"A bloody talking crow? Spying on us?" He scratches his chin thoughtfully. "Humperdinck had some odd animal companions following him into the jungle. Maybe they're like this one?" ... "Grilling it for information sounds fair dinkum to me."

When Granas' second Constrain Being attempt causes the Raven to go limp, the wizard nods to himself. "It won't be getting away for bit." Granas turns to Ten Tokes and the others. "We've got about 15 minutes before the effects of the spell wears off. If you have a way to contain it more permanently while we interrogate it, that'd be ideal, Chief." Granas offers. Though the immediate predicament of Alwin catches Granas' attention.

Rigel wrote:"Well, well, well. Looks like someone traded his pointy ears for some fancy antennae. What kind of bug are you? Are you a cockroach?"

Granas looks at the new form of Alwin within Mürrischer's hand. Must be the metamorphosis, insect spell. Odd to see it applied through eating something. On the plus side, it shouldn't be permanent. Granas considers briefly, the words echoing around him. 'Must be the metamorphosis, insect spell. Odd to see it applied through eating something. On the plus side, it shouldn't be permanent.' Granas curls his lips in brief annoyance at the effect before explaining. "It looks as though Alwin has come under the enchantment of Metamorphosis; Insect. One of several spells that can transform the subject into something else, though I've never heard of it being applied through a food. Possibly a magical potion concealed as a sauce. These types of spells are temporary so Alwin should resume is normal form soon, depending on the strength of the alchemist who made the solution." Granas pauses and looks at the plate. "I'd like to preserve what's left of the food on that plate to examine it later. We should also question who prepared this meal." Granas considers aloud, looking at Chief Ten Tokes and the other Koala's, the researcher in him showing. The netted Raven jars him back to the effects of his spell.

"I don't suspect that Raven will be held there for much longer before the net and branch give way, Chief, do you have some sort of reinforced animal cage we can hold it in?" If the Chief or Double Tree does have something in mind, Granas will then cast Manipulate Objects on the Raven, then dismissing his magical net spell so that he can make the Raven float into the room with them (or wherever the Chief directs)

Mürrischer Reisender · Sat Jul 06, 2024 10:06 am

Perception: 1d100: [97] = 97 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [5] = 5 / 1d100: [1] = 1

"I don't know magic vell enough fer dis." Is his response to the revelation that the weevil is indeed Alwin.

Granas wrote: ↑Thu Jul 04, 2024 9:47 amGranas looks at the new form of Alwin within Mürrischer's hand. Must be the metamorphosis, insect spell. Odd to see it applied through eating something. On the plus side, it shouldn't be permanent. Granas considers briefly, the words echoing around him. 'Must be the metamorphosis, insect spell. Odd to see it applied through eating something. On the plus side, it shouldn't be permanent.' Granas curls his lips in brief annoyance at the effect before explaining. "It looks as though Alwin has come under the enchantment of Metamorphosis; Insect. One of several spells that can transform the subject into something else, though I've never heard of it being applied through a food. Possibly a magical potion concealed as a sauce. These types of spells are temporary so Alwin should resume is normal form soon, depending on the strength of the alchemist who made the solution." Granas pauses and looks at the plate. "I'd like to preserve what's left of the food on that plate to examine it later. We should also question who prepared this meal." Granas considers aloud, looking at Chief Ten Tokes and the other Koala's, the researcher in him showing. The netted Raven jars him back to the effects of his spell.

"Poisoning somevon isn't dat hard, but I'm pwetty sure I couldn't like dat." He admits after the explanation of the spell used on Alwin. "Vee could try to use dis one who twied to poison Ten-Tokes?"

"I don't mind keeping an eye on the bird is somevon needs to." He offers, thinking himself a better choice to watch the spy that seemingly failed in its one task.

He turns a cup upside down and sets Alwin Weevil on it. "You'll be fine.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Tue Jul 09, 2024 5:56 pm

Perception: 1d100: [75] = 75 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [7] = 7 , 1d100: [25] = 25
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Language: Other: Wolfen 1d100: [48] = 48 /15% (To speak to the Koala Men.)

Trask looks out the window. "Well we might as well fetch it before it takes the fall. Not sure what effect that would have." Trask says. If no one makes a move for it, Trask heads outside to see what he can do to get it out of the tree. This whole quest is plain odd, if I was of right mind I might walk away, but Utu wills it, so here I go. Trask thinks as he one hands his Lucerne Hammer and reaches up to pull the branch down, to either break it or get it low enough for him to grab the raven.

Post by **Locknar** » Wed Jul 24, 2024 12:32 am

A Classic Blunder!
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:45pm

The room crackles with a tension thicker than the second hand smoke that permeates the koala village. (cough cough). The raven, a foot caught in a magical net conjured by our wizard, dangles unconscious outside the window. Trask moves quickly to retrieve it. But Granas sees this as another problem that can be solved with hard magic.

He mutters the incantation for a Manipulate Objects spell, and a flicker of blue magic pulses from his outstretched hand. It arcs towards the raven, a magical helping hand that reaches out and retrieves the trapped bird.

The raven's apparent lifelessness is shattered as a single beady eye snaps open. Those beady black eyes lock onto Granas and narrow.

Trask, lost in his own thoughts, remains blissfully unaware. Mürrischer is similarly oblivious, his gaze momentarily fixed on the plump, green weevil cupped in his massive hand. The wolfen carefully places the cup on the table, setting Alwin, the evil weevil, down as this crucial moment unfolds.

Only Granas the raven's charade. Just as the blue tendrils pull the raven loose, the bird erupts into action.

"Inconceivable! You have fallen for one of the classic blunders! The most famous is 'Never get involved in a land war in Asia,' but only slightly less well-known is this: Never try to
Note: Non-supernatural beings such as dragons, Faerie Folk, or mortal humans, D-Bees, or aliens are not affected by the Constrain Being spell.
a fey creature who is not what they seem!"

The raven's resounds through the village.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

NOTE: The raven will surely flee first chance it gets. If you wish to prevent it this is a combat situation. Everyone but Granas automatically lose initiative and 1 APM next round.

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 160/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 39min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Mürrischer Reisender · Sat Jul 27, 2024 1:47 pm

Perception: 1d100: [74] = 74 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [11] = 11 / 1d100: [21] = 21

Conditions: He actually uses the Wolfens' Horror Factor of 12.

The weevil in a safe spot now, the Wolfen turns his attention to the situation involving the raven he can't properly conclude is not a raven. What he raven has to say only gets him ready to draw a knife or bow on the creature. "I say we roast the kreator."

The Wolfen potentially lumbers over to where the raven is being held like he could be a threat to the bird. "What are you on about?"

There might be a dizzying intellect.

He looks around for what ambush they inadvertently triggered through their actions, still annoyed they had found themselves in the predicament they are in with a rather confident raven that is definitely not a raven.

Detect Ambush: 1d100: [8] = 8 /55%

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Tue Jul 30, 2024 8:02 am

Perception: 1d100: [7] = 7 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [24] = 24 / 1d20: [19] = 19

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 160/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye moves to observe the Raven from a perch but otherwise does nothing else.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [62] = 62 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [35] = 35 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [96] = 96 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Raven wrote:"Inconceivable! You have fallen for one of the classic blunders! The most famous is 'Never get involved in a land war in Asia,' but only slightly less well-known is this: Never try to constrain a fey creature who is not what they seem!"

Bloody hell! Granas thinks as the Raven squawk. The moment Granas notices the Raven begin to erupt into action, he wastes no time in slinging a Magic Net towards the Raven to hopefully trap it before it even tries taking off. "It's escaping!" Granas exclaims as the first net he launches attempts to lock down the raven.

If Granas does successfully capture it again, he will look to Mürrischer and Trask. "Might be best if one of you secure it instead, this time." Granas will ask of them and then make sure any of his nets that didn't hit the Raven are dispelled. He will also turn to Ten-Tokes and apologize.

Comnbat
Initiative: 1d20: [12] = 12
APM: 5
Parries [with Dwarven Dagger]: 1d20+5: [6]+5 = 11 | 1d20+5: [10]+5 = 15 | 1d20+5: [1]+5 = 6 | 1d20+5: [9]+5 = 14 | 1d20+5: [15]+5 = 20

A1: Magic Net the Raven

A2-5: Granas is prepared to send multiple nets after the Raven until it is captured again.

Contingency: Granas will try to avoid hitting any of the Koala-folk with the net as he is aiming at the bird. Should any errant net miss, he will dispel it after he manages to capture the Raven again.

Magic Net: [160ft | 16 melees | Dodge v 16 | 1-6 humanoids with a 10 diameter net | Immune to normal weapons. Magic and spells can affect the net but requires 2 rounds to break | 7PPE]

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Wed Jul 31, 2024 4:02 pm

Perception: 1d100: [19] = 19 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [13] = 13 , 1d100: [12] = 12
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Trask is slow to react, something he'll chide himself for later. Problem is that he doesn't have time to really think, as he slowly pulls a knife from his harness and lets it loose at the Raven-formed Vizini. "Damn it!" Trask follows this up with another, before trying to make a grab for the damnable bird. Resorting to shooting at the creature with his crossbow if unsuccessful/unable to grab the creature.

Post by **Locknar** » Mon Aug 05, 2024 12:00 pm

The Raven's Escape
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:46pm

With a maniacal cackle, Vizzini, disguised as the raven, plummets towards the dense undergrowth below. Granas, recognising the imminent escape, frantically casts another Magic Net spell, but the cunning bird anticipates the move. With a flick of its wings, it rolled sideways in the air, the net whooshing harmlessly past.

Trask reacts instinctively. A knife flashes in his hand, and he sends it hurtling towards the fleeing bird. The blade spins with deadly precision, but fate has . It strikes a low-hanging branch, careening upwards before plunging back towards the group. With a sickening thud, it embeds itself deeply into the wooden table, mere inches from the shocked Alwin, the tiny, green evil weevil.

Mürrischer, however, abandons any idea pursuing the fleeing raven. His gaze scans the surrounding area, searching for any sign of ambush. Finding none, he turns to the others.

"That feathered freak flew off towards the Stone House," Ten Tokes states, his voice filled with a mix of frustration and anger.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 153/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 38min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Mürrischer Reisender · Wed Aug 07, 2024 3:18 pm

Perception: 1d100: [30] = 30 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [13] = 13 / 1d100: [41] = 41

"Vich Vay is dat?" The annoyed Wolfen turns his head towards Ten-Tokes as he gets his bow to hand and looks out in the direction indicated or simply the way he saw the raven go, taking a shot at it if he can line one up on the raven. I think he likes to scream at us.

Longbow shot at the fleeing raven: 1d20+3: [4]+3 = 7 Dam: 3d6: [2, 2, 5] = 9

Whether the shot is taken or not, he hurries off toward the stone house, bow still in hand, tracking the raven best he can, quietly as possible. As he nears the house, he slows to slower than a walk, shrinking down into the greenery for cover. And now the brute squad.

Track and trap animals: 1d100: [46] = 46 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [7] = 7 /45%

Having snuck the best he possible can to the stone house, He then makes the attempt to sneak up to the door and get a look inside through a window, staying out of view for a potential ambush at the front door.

Prowl: 1d100: [27] = 27 /45%

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Sun Aug 11, 2024 1:10 pm

Perception: 1d100: [2] = 2 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [8] = 8 , 1d100: [29] = 29
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Trask growls and snatches his knife up from the table, sheathing it with a bit of anger. "Well, looks like we're screwed." Trask says in a growl. Gods damned bird... goblin. Utu take his soul and flense it into nothing." Trask thinks as he moves towards the door, but stops before hand. "Granas you have any tricks to nab that menace?" Trask asks, waiting for an answer.

Granas tells Trask the plan, the old man nods. "Alright sounds good enough, I'll stand by ready to start moving." Trask says as he grabs up his other set aside gear and begins to pace a little. Waiting is always the hardest part. Trask thinks.

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Sun Aug 11, 2024 1:55 pm

Perception: 1d100: [34] = 34 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [34] = 34 / 1d20: [4] = 4

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 153/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is actively pursing the Raven using the combat actions listed below.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [19] = 19 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [99] = 99 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [86] = 86 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Vizzini wrote:"Inconceivable! You have fallen for one of the classic blunders! The most famous is 'Never get involved in a land war in Asia,' but only slightly less well-known is this: Never try to a fey creature who is not what they seem!"

Granas quickly rushes to the window of the tree house and watches as Vizzini flies off, the mage scowling as he mentally connects to his familiar. Skye, time to fly. Follow that Raven before it escapes the village! Granas quickly says before turning to Trask and Mürrischer. "I'm going to try capturing it again with Skye following it. If it escapes, we should make for the keep before it gets word back to Humperdinick. Trask, please cover me while I see through Skye's eyes." Granas explains.

Trask wrote:"Alright sounds good enough, I'll stand by ready to start moving."

Granas nods and his eyes wash over as he connects to his familiar Skye to see through the Osprey's eyes. They don't know about Skye, maybe we'll get the jump on it. Under normal circumstances, an Osprey would be able to best a Raven. But we know this isn't a raven, it's one of those Cobblers. May the gods favor us even without our dutiful priestess watching over us. Granas thinks. When Skye has eyes on the fleeing Raven, he will launch a series of Magic Nets at the Raven, hoping to capture it.

Combat through Skye
Skye is bursting his speed to reach 60-75 MPH for 1d4*10: [4]*10 = 40 minutes to catch up and overtake the Raven.
Initiative: 1d20+2: [17]+2 = 19

A1: Magic Net the Raven [7PPE]
A2: Magic Net the Raven [7PPE]
A3: Magic Net the Raven [7PPE]

Contingency: If the Raven attempts to attack Skye, sacrifice one of Skye's actions for Dodge. 1d20+3: [12]+3 = 15
If the Raven is netted, Skye will then circle the Raven from above until Granas and the others get there.
If the Raven dodges all of them, and escapes the Village, Granas will recall Skye before his familiar ventures too far.

Post by **Locknar** » Sun Aug 11, 2024 3:23 pm

The Hunt
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:50pm

As Vizzini, still in raven form, makes his dash for the safety of his master's keep, Granas wastes no time. He rushes to the window, his gaze fixed on the fleeing bird. With concentration, his mind links with his deadly osprey familiar, Skye. Through Skye's keen eyes, Granas scans the jungle, seeing the lush green canopy from a bird's eye view. Trask watches over the wizard as he acts on his plan.

Meanwhile, Mürrischer, the enormous wolfen, slips away, and his long strides carry him through the undergrowth in pursuit of the elusive raven.

In the air, Skye soars through the trees, its powerful wings carrying it through the jungle canopy. After a time the osprey's keen eyes spots something. Below, amid the dense emerald tapestry of the jungle, the osprey spots a small, round creature with impossibly large, round eyes. it is hopping and bounding with an almost absurd cheerfulness. Whatever it is, Skye thinks it would be tasty. Its fur is a soft, ashen grey, and its bright, inquisitive eyes seem blissfully unaware of the winged predator nearby. Indeed the prey seems oblivious to the world around it, lost in its own tiny universe of joy.

Alas lunch will have to wait, for then Skye spots the raven. Its dark form flits through the lush greenery nearby. Vizzini, seemingly unaware of the impending threat, appears intent on putting as much distance as possible between himself and our heroes. Indeed, he is making excellent progress.

But Skye pursues! With a piercing cry, the osprey closes the distance, and its deadly grasping talons are outstretched. Vizzini, sensing imminent danger, transforms mid-air. His raven form blurs, and is replaced by the grotesque visage of a goblin. With a swift, acrobatic maneuver, he spins around to face the osprey, landing on a low-hanging branch, and a dagger is already gripped in his hand.

Granas, through his connection with Skye, unleashes another spell. A shimmering net of magical energy expanded outwards, engulfing the unsuspecting goblin. Vizzini is caught off guard, and tumbles backwards into the dense undergrowth, with the net binding him tightly.

Mürrischer hears a frustrated shout echo through the jungle, "Is that the only spell that wizard knows?!" It is Vizzini's voice, filled with a mix of anger and disbelief. Within a minute Mürrischer is there, and a struggling Vizzini seems unaware of the wolfen's presence.

It will take the others a couple minutes to arrive, and in the meantime Mürrischer has the goblin all to himself.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 34min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Mürrischer Reisender · Sun Aug 11, 2024 4:57 pm

Perception: 1d100: [28] = 28 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [12] = 12 / 1d100: [26] = 26

Conditions: Horror Factor of 12

Mürrischer easily catches up to the raven reverted to the form of a goblin without being noticed. Be lucky it's me first and not the others.

Unfortunately for the Cobbler Goblin, the Wolfen has his bow in hand and an initial thought to shoot the struggling Goblin. He watches for barely a few seconds, deciding how to deal with whatever time he may have alone with the Goblin. It really is unfortunate the goblin is currently alone with an ornery Wolfen with his bow out. Arrow knocked and bow drawn for a shot at the goblin, Mürrischer comes from where he lurked, a towering beast of fur and muscle compared to the struggling goblin. "Look like the vulf got here first little one."

"Tell me wut you can of what you ver stalking my pack for vhile you can." He says to the Cobbler as though it were a certain fact there were a time limit to how long he'll give to let Vizzini speak. "And I am vith the brute squad."

IF Vizzini is initially cooperative after his display of aggression, Mürrischer lowers, but does nor put away, his bow and offers the bare minimum in first aid if any is needed.

IF Vizzini tries to physically resist or escape, Mürrischer will strike the goblin once, initially with the arrow, then the bow, then an open palm, strongly suggesting he cooperate each time.

Contingency violence rolls [Ignore as needed]:
Initiative: 1d20+1: [18]+1 = 19
Conditions: HF12

Action one: Stab Vizzini with the drawn arrow 1d20+1: [15]+1 = 16 / 5SDC from arrow in hand
Action two: Smack Vizzini with the bow 1d20+1: [19]+1 = 20 / 2d4+5: [1, 4]+5 = 10
Action three: Slap Vizzini 1d20+1: [6]+1 = 7 / 2d4+5: [2, 3]+5 = 10
Action four: Slap Vizzini 1d20+1: [6]+1 = 7 / 2d4+5: [3, 1]+5 = 9
Action five: Slap Vizzini 1d20+1: [10]+1 = 11 / 2d4+5: [2, 1]+5 = 8

Parries: 1d20+2: [8]+2 = 10 1d20+2: [9]+2 = 11 1d20+2: [18]+2 = 20 1d20+2: [17]+2 = 19 1d20+2: [16]+2 = 18

Post by **Locknar** » Sun Aug 11, 2024 5:17 pm

Mürrischer alone with Vizzini
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:50pm

"Enough with the threats, wolfen," Vizzini sneers as Mürrischer threatens the goblin with the pointy end of his arrow. Though the wolfen can tell the goblin's bravado is but a thin veneer over a growing fear. The net simply refuses to part no matter how he struggles. "I'm not some mindless minion here to be interrogated. I'm a professional! I've got clients, contracts, and a very real need not to die in some forgotten jungle."

He pauses, and his eyes narrow with a mixture of cunning and desperation. "How about a deal? I tell you how to reverse the enchantment that turned your friend into a bug, and you let me go with a revised contract. Think of it as outsourcing your intelligence needs. It's a win-win, wouldn't you say?"

Vizzini's voice takes on a pompous tone. "After all," he continues, "snitching is a noble profession, passed down through generations of my family. We cobblers have a long history of providing vital information to those in power. It's in our blood. I provide information, and you provide my freedom. Do we have a deal?"

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 34min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;
[/quote]

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Sun Aug 11, 2024 5:28 pm

Perception: 1d100: [9] = 9 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [5] = 5 / 1d20: [11] = 11

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is actively pursing the Raven using the combat actions listed below.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [80] = 80 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [97] = 97 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [67] = 67 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

When Granas confirms that Vizzani is netted, he released the shared sight. Skye, watch it. Make sure it doesn't escape until we get there. Granas tells his familiar before turning to Trask. "Chief, Trask, I've got it netted. Let's get down there... huh, where is Mürrischer?" Granas says aloud, then turning towards the exit.

When Granas makes it down, he turns to his unmoved marshmallow golem. "Come with me, do not break anything on the way." He orders the golem and then heads to where Skye is. Leading Trask and Ten-Tokes and any other Koala folk with him to where the netted Raven remains.

Hoping the Raven is still netted by the time they arrive, Granas answers a question. "No, it's not the only spell I know. Just a rather reliable one. I would love to introduce you to some of my other magic." Granas replies to the Goblin, implying there is other magic he can use on the goblin. "Tell us where the Elven Woman, Luna is. Tell us what book was stolen from the Temple. Tell us how to help our friend that was transformed. If you do that, we might let you go with the promise of future cooperation. But that also depends on our hosts, Chief Ten-Tokes, who you tried to transform in the first place." Granas states.

Mürrischer Reisender · Sun Aug 11, 2024 6:48 pm

[Rolls carried]

The bow lowers and draw relaxes as the Goblin doesn't try to resist or escape. He almost glares at the tangled creature knowing that a certain wizard's bird is probably around somewhere and holds his tongue as he considers what the goblin offers until he suggests being freed. You're not free until I say you are.

He listens to the terms and is so close to intrigued even he might think he'd take the deal but he stops himself right at the moment he'd do just, "I'm not letting you go anyvhere."

"I haven't come across a goblin that didn' at some point think they vere sneaky."

He looks to see if he can how close the others and Skrye are. "How can I trust you aren't lying right now?"

I could do a lot with someone like this creature. But do I trust a goblin? "Prove it goblin." He says after a strong thought of doubt. He very well likes the idea of an information source, but knows taking it right now is probably a horrible idea. His suspicion even leads into telepathy to probe the surface thoughts of the goblin.

Post by **Locknar** » Tue Aug 13, 2024 5:47 am

Mürrischer alone with Vizzini - Part 2
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:51pm

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Sun Aug 11, 2024 6:48 pm The bow lowers and draw relaxes as the Goblin doesn't try to resist or escape. He almost glares at the tangled creature knowing that a certain wizard's bird is probably around somewhere and holds his tongue as he considers what the goblin offers until he suggests being freed. You're not free until I say you are.

He listens to the terms and is so close to intrigued even he might think he'd take the deal but he stops himself right at the moment he'd do just, "I'm not letting you go anyvhere."

"I haven't come across a goblin that didn' at some point think they vere sneaky."

He looks to see if he can how close the others and Skrye are. "How can I trust you aren't lying right now?"

Vizzini thinks a moment, and replies, "But it's so simple. You have me at a disadvantage, so clearly you can trust the word of a desperate and helpless goblin whose neck is on the line. And you are a wolfen and I a goblin, both of us outcasts in this human ruled world, so clearly we should trust one another. You also have the look of one unspoiled by civilisation, so clearly I can trust your word over any of those silver-tongued humans."

"You and I both know the humans will never be as understanding as you. Wolfen have honor, Men do not. And so I must clearly offer my best bargain to you now before they arrive."

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Sun Aug 11, 2024 6:48 pm I could do a lot with someone like this creature. But do I trust a goblin? "Prove it goblin." He says after a strong thought of doubt. He very well likes the idea of an information source, but knows taking it right now is probably a horrible idea. His suspicion even leads into telepathy to probe the surface thoughts of the goblin.

Vizzini, sensing an opening, takes a deep breath. "There's a way to verify my sincerity," he says carefully. Is that a smile creeping across his face? "I'm not just any goblin, you know. I'm a prodigy of my kind. Let me tell you a tale."

Mürrischer listens to Vizzini's thoughts, and can see the goblin's mind is racing. This wolfen is formidable, untapped potential! An ally of this size would be invaluable. A brute squad, he said, that sounds promising. Could he be swayed to join me? Unlikely, perhaps, but stranger alliances have been forged and proven valuable. As for the others, the humans are of little interest. The elf, however, possesses an intriguing cunning. Careless also, but cunning. Oh I must make him trust me! A story, an example, might be the key. A tale of unlikely allies, perhaps? The ogre and the donkey, a classic tale of opposites attracting. It is worth trying.

"Now, there once was a great and terrible Ogre named Shrek," Vizzini begins, an intelligent glint in his beady black eyes. "Everyone feared him, avoided him, even the birds wouldn't perch on his head. But lo and behold, there came a talking donkey, a creature of boundless optimism and an even more boundless way with words. This donkey, full of bravado and lacking in self-preservation, decided the Ogre needed a friend."

Vizzini pauses for dramatic effect. "Can you imagine? A talking donkey befriending an ogre. It's like a squirrel befriending a bear, or a flea befriending a dog. Or even a goblin befriending a wolfen! The odds are astronomical. But there they were, an unlikely duo, an ogre and a donkey, setting off on adventures that would be the stuff of legends."

Unbeknownst to Mürrischer, Vizzini is employing his most potent weapon - charm. A power possessed by cobbler goblins over many generations of deception, it is a power he wields with deadly precision. As the goblin spins his tale, he watches for any signs of vulnerability, any chink in the Mürrischer's mental armor.

Please make a saving throw vs Magic DC 12.

If Mürrischer passes, the story does not captivate him in any special way. Vizzini seems as he did before the story.

If Mürrischer fails, he fall under the immediate influence of Vizzini. He will believe everything the Vizzini tells him, trust him as if he were a loyal friend, do his best to please/help/assist or protect him, and will answer any questions truthfully and in as much detail as requested.

Whether the magic works or not, Vizzini says, "Come now, cut me out of this net quickly and I will do as promised. You have my word."

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 33min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Mürrischer Reisender · Tue Aug 13, 2024 3:12 pm

[Rolls Carried]

"Ja. Dat is true." He almost seems flattered until the goblin's thoughts are heard as the little guy tells the tale of Shrek and Donkey, ear shifting almost certain the goblin is trying something and lets him think it's working up to the very end. In the End the Wolfen only lifts Vizzini up by the front of the shirt as he seems to reach for the netting. "You forgot the princess and farquad."

"Nice tale though."

Save Versus Magic: MGP Crit.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Tue Aug 20, 2024 6:59 pm

Perception: 1d100: [53] = 53 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [5] = 5 , 1d100: [64] = 64
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Trask nods and follows Granas. "Just let me know if you nab him." Trask says as he keeps a watchful eye on the area around the wizard. When Granas confirms the raven is caught, Trask makes his way out of the building towards the target, following roughly a similar path of Mürrischer. Utu, when this is over, I am drinking myself unconscious.

When Trask finally arrives, the old wolf looks down at the creature. "So what do we do now, interrogate it, or just kill it so it's not a problem anymore?"

Post by **Locknar** » Wed Aug 28, 2024 6:11 pm

A Deal with the Devil Goblin
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 1:55pm

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Tue Aug 13, 2024 3:12 pm In the End the Wolfen only lifts Vizzini up by the front of the shirt as he seems to reach for the netting. "You forgot the princess and farquad."

"Nice tale though."

Mürrischer, his grip on Vizzini's shirt tightening, holds the goblin aloft like a captured plaything. Vizzini, his eyes wide with a mixture of fear and bewilderment, seems to be experiencing a surge of panic as his magic fails. Just then, Mürrischer hears the hurried footsteps of his friends approaching through the undergrowth.

"Ah," Vizzini sighs, his voice is laced with disappointment. "It could have been an interesting alliance, you and I against the world."

Tolliver Trask wrote: ↑Tue Aug 20, 2024 6:59 pm When Trask finally arrives, the old wolf looks down at the creature. "So what do we do now, interrogate it, or just kill it so it's not a problem anymore?"

"Interrogate me? Kill me?" Vizzini blinks in astonishment. "You can't do that! I'm a valuable asset. I have information, secrets that could be vital to your mission. I'm so valuable I'm invaluable!"

He pauses, and his eyes dart between the two humans, as if searching their thoughts. "I can help you," he continues, and his voice drips with confidence. "I know things you don't. I am a genius, a mastermind! My mind is a labyrinth of knowledge, a treasure trove of secrets. You humans, with your limited understanding of the world, could never comprehend the depths of my intellect."

Then his voice drops to a low, persuasive tone, "I know most things you couldn't even conceive of. Things that could make all the difference."

Granas wrote: ↑Sun Aug 11, 2024 5:28 pm "Tell us where the Elven Woman, Luna is. Tell us what book was stolen from the Temple. Tell us how to help our friend that was transformed. If you do that, we might let you go with the promise of future cooperation. But that also depends on our hosts, Chief Ten-Tokes, who you tried to transform in the first place." Granas states.

"Oh THAT?" replies Vizzini looking disappointed at the choice of topics. He replies evasively. "Luna is with the book that was stolen. She enjoys reading, you see. The book was a little brown leather number, rather worn, and quite old. I forget the details. Nets tend to make me forgetful," he muttered, a hint of sarcasm creeping into his voice.

Vizzini's beady eyes narrow. "As for your friend, there's only one way," he said, his voice carried an air of calculated ambiguity. "And it involves me. Dispose of me and your friend will bug you for as long as he lives." The goblin chuckles at his own joke. "And insects don't live all that long, you know."

"You wish for many things, an antidote, and your elven friend," Vizzini says with a calculating look. His voice takes on an increasingly confident tone. "A delicate matter, and I promise you that my information becomes less useful if you mistreat me. I propose the following deal. I will tell you where to find Luna, and how to avoid most of those guarding her. I will also tell you what your friend needs to avoid being insectoid vermin for his remaining days. In exchange I agree not to be part of this struggle between you and Prince Humperdinck. Whoever comes out on top is no longer up to me."

He pats Mürrischer meaty paws, which still hold the goblin aloft.

"Do we have an agreement? Time isn't on your side you know."

If anyone reads Vizzini's surface thoughts, they hear .

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Alwin: 37/37 H.P., 40/40 S.D.C.: 40, 58/110 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Metamorphosis: Insect unknown min/hours/days?
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 29min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Runidia: 28/28 H.P., 30/30 S.D.C., 12/12 P.P.E.| Armor: Dwarf Plate AR: 17; 160/160 | Shield 100/100
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Fri Aug 30, 2024 9:07 pm

Perception: 1d100: [33] = 33 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [24] = 24 / 1d20: [13] = 13

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is perched nearby, observing and waiting for the Raven Goblin to try running again

Track by Sight: 1d100: [73] = 73 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [22] = 22 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [20] = 20 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Trask wrote:"So what do we do now, interrogate it, or just kill it so it's not a problem anymore?"

As Granas approaches Mürrischer and the netted Raven, he communicates to his familiar. Find a high perch and keep an eye out, Skye. If it tries to run, be ready. Granas tells his familiar as he arrives at the netted Raven. Granas frowns as he's still under the affects of the Bareleaf Smoke as he answers Trask. "Let's try talking, first." Granas says then turning and making his demands of the raven.

Vizzani wrote:"Oh THAT?" ... "Luna is with the book that was stolen. She enjoys reading, you see. The book was a little brown leather number, rather worn, and quite old. I forget the details. Nets tend to make me forgetful,"

Granas furrows his brow trying best to control his thoughts amid the Bareleaf smoke. This one's words twist like vines. It's allegiance is to itself. But perhaps that is a good thing in this instance; self preservation. Granas considers to himself. "And where is that? Speak plainly, where is Luna being held." Granas states as Vizzani continues

Vizzani wrote:"A delicate matter, and I promise you that my information becomes less useful if you mistreat me. I propose the following deal. I will tell you where to find Luna, and how to avoid most of those guarding her. I will also tell you what your friend needs to avoid being insectoid vermin for his remaining days. In exchange I agree not to be part of this struggle between you and Prince Humperdinck. Whoever comes out on top is no longer up to me." ... "Do we have an agreement? Time isn't on your side you know."

Granas frowns and shakes his head. "We don't want to hurt you, I have other magics I could've used if that were the case. But how do we know we can trust you? " Granas asks slowly, nodding to the marshmallow golem behind him as an example while crossing his arms. "Tell us your name and your true form. Tell us how to return our friend to normal and lead us to Luna around the guards safely. Prove your words are true and that you will honor our agreement, then we can strike an accord. You will find us to be more agreeable than the Prince." Granas then offers an amended version of the deal.

OOC: I don't think we've been actually told his name ICly.

Mürrischer Reisender · Sat Aug 31, 2024 2:35 pm

Perception: 1d100: [7] = 7 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [9] = 9 / 1d100: [99] = 99

The Wolfen keeps the goblin aloft the entirety of the time he speaks, not letting on he is listening to even more until it is clear they keep the three of them duped, which might seem to have taken longer than usual or just the right amount of time. "The one meanier lookin' den me really likes goblins." He says with a sudden jerk like he could easy hold the goblin over Trasks' head so he could catch a dropped goblin easily.

"BUT you seem be 'helpful', so I von't just let 'im have you."

"Let's start without our weevil." He says before abruptly starting back toward the last place he remembers leaving their bugged friend.

He looks over his shoulder a moment as Granas says 'agreeable' before quipping back, "Ve'll see about dat."

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Mon Sep 02, 2024 5:40 pm

Perception: 1d100: [49] = 49 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [3] = 3 , 1d100: [72] = 72
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Vizini wrote:"Interrogate me? Kill me? You can't do that! I'm a valuable asset. I have information, secrets that could be vital to your mission. I'm so valuable I'm invaluable! I can help you, I know things you don't. I am a genius, a mastermind! My mind is a labyrinth of knowledge, a treasure trove of secrets. You humans, with your limited understanding of the world, could never comprehend the depths of my intellect. I know most things you couldn't even conceive of. Things that could make all the difference."

Through Vizini's initial grovelling, Trask doesn't say anything, just keeps a baleful eye on the creature. To Trask Vizini is lumped up in the same category as venomous snakes, always dangerous and ultimately untrustworthy.

Granas wrote:"Let's try talking, first."

Trask nods, and gestures for Granas to continue, but keeps his mouth shut.

Mürrischer wrote:"The one meanier lookin' den me really likes goblins. BUT you seem be 'helpful', so I von't just let 'im have you. Let's start without our weevil."

Is it really a goblin though? Trask thinks as he glowers at the creature.

Vizini wrote:"Oh THAT? Luna is with the book that was stolen. She enjoys reading, you see. The book was a little brown leather number, rather worn, and quite old. I forget the details. Nets tend to make me forgetful, As for your friend, there's only one way, And it involves me. Dispose of me and your friend will bug you for as long as he lives. And insects don't live all that long, you know. You wish for many things, an antidote, and your elven friend, A delicate matter, and I promise you that my information becomes less useful if you mistreat me. I propose the following deal. I will tell you where to find Luna, and how to avoid most of those guarding her. I will also tell you what your friend needs to avoid being insectoid vermin for his remaining days. In exchange I agree not to be part of this struggle between you and Prince Humperdinck. Whoever comes out on top is no longer up to me."

"Do we have an agreement? Time isn't on your side you know."

Granas wrote:"And where is that? Speak plainly, where is Luna being held?.. We don't want to hurt you, I have other magics I could've used if that were the case. But how do we know we can trust you?.. Tell us your name and your true form. Lead us to Luna around the guards safely. Prove your words are true and that you will honor our agreement, then we can strike an accord. You will find us to be more agreeable than the Prince."

Mürrischer wrote:"Ve'll see about dat."

"I don't trust him. He seems willing to say whatever we want to hear to save his worthless hide. Let's just kill him and be done with it. No chance of Humperdink finding out anything if the little rat is unable to go back to his master." Trask says with more than a little venom of his own, but ultimately doesn't move unless the group agrees.

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Tue Sep 03, 2024 7:24 am

Granas wrote: ↑Fri Aug 30, 2024 9:07 pm Perception: 1d100: [33] = 33 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [24] = 24 / 1d20: [13] = 13

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is perched nearby, observing and waiting for the Raven Goblin to try running again

Track by Sight: 1d100: [73] = 73 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [22] = 22 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [20] = 20 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Trask wrote:"I don't trust him. He seems willing to say whatever we want to hear to save his worthless hide. Let's just kill him and be done with it. No chance of Humperdink finding out anything if the little rat is unable to go back to his master."

Granas looks over to Trask and nods in subtle agreement. "If he is unwilling to acquiesce, then I have no objections to you silencing him. We can always find other ways to help Alwin's situation and find our own way to the Keep." Granas offers, agreeing with Trask loud enough for Vizzani to hear, then turning back to the netted goblin. "Well, what say you?" Granas asks

Post by **Locknar** » Tue Sep 03, 2024 1:02 pm

Parley
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:00pm

Granas, his brow furrowed in concentration, struggles to control his thoughts amidst the effects of the Bareleaf. Yet, his thoughts are indeed laid bare, and a voice repeats his thoughts. When he mentally commands his familiar, the words are plainly said. Then his thoughts turn to Vizzini himself.

"This one's words twist like vines," the wizard's thoughts speak, "its allegiance is to itself. But perhaps that is a good thing in this instance; self-preservation."

Vizzini, his eyes narrowing, listens intently to Granas' thoughts. "And no small wonder where my allegiance lies," he replies in a voice dripping with calculated slowness, emphasising each word. "For who, pray tell, is ever on the goblin's side? We are sport for all of you." He huffs with a mixture of disdain and resignation. "I suppose Humperdinck had a point about that. And who else but a changeling would know anything of our troubles? Ours are a small folk surrounded by enemies."

Mürrischer tightens his grip on Vizzini's shirt, still holding the goblin aloft

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Sat Aug 31, 2024 2:35 pm "The one meanier lookin' den me really likes goblins." He says with a sudden jerk like he could easy hold the goblin over Trasks' head so he could catch a dropped goblin easily.

"BUT you seem be 'helpful', so I von't just let 'im have you."

Vizzini's eyes narrow, meeting Mürrischer's gaze with a . "And what would that accomplish?" he retorts in a voice dripping with sarcasm. "He'll interrogate me, torture me, and then dispose of me. Hardly an ideal outcome for any of us, you need to be more clever than that!"

He pauses, and an amused expression comes to his green features. "You are choosing the right words but the delivery is all off. My friend you could use tips about being truly menacing. I know some very frightening folk, some of whom I'm contemplating working against to help you!"

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Sat Aug 31, 2024 2:35 pm "Let's start without our weevil." He says before abruptly starting back toward the last place he remembers leaving their bugged friend.

"We are starting without the weevil, he isn't here. Unless you thought to slip him into your pocket?"

Tolliver Trask wrote: ↑Mon Sep 02, 2024 5:40 pm "I don't trust him. He seems willing to say whatever we want to hear to save his worthless hide. Let's just kill him and be done with it. No chance of Humperdink finding out anything if the little rat is unable to go back to his master." Trask says with more than a little venom of his own, but ultimately doesn't move unless the group agrees.

"And I do not trust you. So we are at an impasse." The goblin's hands fold behind his back, and he does not struggle in the wolfen's grip.

Granas wrote: ↑Fri Aug 30, 2024 9:07 pm Granas frowns and shakes his head. "We don't want to hurt you, I have other magics I could've used if that were the case. But how do we know we can trust you? " Granas asks slowly, nodding to the marshmallow golem behind him as an example while crossing his arms. "Tell us your name and your true form. Lead us to Luna around the guards safely. Prove your words are true and that you will honor our agreement, then we can strike an accord. You will find us to be more agreeable than the Prince." Granas then offers an amended version of the deal.

Vizzini appears to consider Granas' proposal. "This is my true form!" he declares, looking at his current green goblinoid shape. His voice drips with pride and might well be true. "I am Vizzini, blade for hire and a cobbler goblin. One of those gifted rare types who can assume various forms when we wish it. It is how we survive in your human world. We are everywhere."

He continues with an intelligent calculating look, one that also holds more than a hint of arrogance. At Granas he says, "You are the one who speaks his mind, out loud of all things, and are therefore the only logical choice to bargain with," he continues. "I would have thought you'd have suggested as much yourself by now but clearly though you are the cleverest amongst your group you're not the cleverest in this jungle. So I'll make it simple for you. If you agree to release me, I will tell you how to avoid more of my kind and allies. The others I have no power over, that will be up to you."

Vizzini pauses, his eyes alight with a mixture of cunning and confidence. "There's a better way to access the keep than the front door," he offers. "It gives you the easiest means of egress. If you can create a distraction, it would go all the better for you." He looks pointedly at Granas' golem, pausing however long enough is necessary for the wizard to get his meaning. "Further, I know the perfect way to create a wonderful distraction on the inside of the keep. Though I am not inclined to elucidate at this time until a bargain is struck."

Granas wrote: ↑Tue Sep 03, 2024 7:24 am Granas looks over to Trask and nods in subtle agreement. "If he is unwilling to acquiesce, then I have no objections to you silencing him. We can always find other ways to help Alwin's situation and find our own way to the Keep." Granas offers, agreeing with Trask loud enough for Vizzani to hear, then turning back to the netted goblin. "Well, what say you?" Granas asks

"The alternative is your sword," Vizzini scoffs. "If you want to play the tyrant, be my guest. Indulge your human nature. Though as a wizard you have clearly studied, and in studying you know something of your own faults as a human. Even if not you ought to suspect that without me, you will never find Luna quickly enough, and your friend may well remain a bug for the rest of his days. Now I eagerly await to hear your thoughts on the matter, at least then I will know whether my word is worth keeping. My word is always kept, once a bargain is struck. That is how the world ought to operate. I believe YOU know this. Most humans on the other hand change their vows as often as their trousers and will kill their own fathers in order to gain an inheritance. If you have any semblance of education in your mind, which likely came not from humanity, you will know what I mean."

If asked about Vizzini breaking how vows to Humperdinck, he replies with a laugh. "I have fulfilled my agreements with the Prince in full. I was told to acquire Luna but not to harm her, which I have done. Further I was told to watch the village for signs of trouble, delay them if at all possible and warn the keep if at all possible. I have done what is possible, and now comes opportunity for the improbable. A bargain with a human, however unlikely that might seem."

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 24min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Wed Sep 04, 2024 4:12 pm

Perception: 1d100: [98] = 98 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [8] = 8 / 1d20: [7] = 7

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is perched nearby, observing and waiting for the Raven Goblin to try running again

Track by Sight: 1d100: [3] = 3 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [19] = 19 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [16] = 16 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Vizzani wrote:"If you want to play the tyrant, be my guest. Indulge your human nature. Though as a wizard you have clearly studied, and in studying you know something of your own faults as a human. Even if not you ought to suspect that without me, you will never find Luna quickly enough, and your friend may well remain a bug for the rest of his days. Now I eagerly await to hear your thoughts on the matter, at least then I will know whether my word is worth keeping. My word is always kept, once a bargain is struck. That is how the world ought to operate. I believe YOU know this. Most humans on the other hand change their vows as often as their trousers and will kill their own fathers in order to gain an inheritance. If you have any semblance of education in your mind, which likely came not from humanity, you will know what I mean."

A Changeling Prince, now some of the dots are starting to make sense. Granas thinks as he recognizes Humperdinck as a changeling, a fact that has previously eluded him. The words repeat aloud as Granas nods in agreement with his vocalized thoughts. Granas continues to listen to the quick talking Gobling with a certain level of apprehension. Though Granas can't say for sure if that's because of an actual gut feeling, or that he has been conditioned to mistrust creatures such as this. The comparison of a tyrant is enough to make him uneasy, however. I am no tyrant. Granas thinks to himself, briefly thinking his father for the first time in many years. The words echoing after he thinks them as if reinforcing his frame of mind. An actual tyrant in the West who started a war against the Fae for a logging empire, the very thought of it is enough to make Granas's stomach churn. "Vizzani, How can we expect any better from you when you are so willing to break your allegiance to the Changeling Prince?"

Vizzani wrote:"I have fulfilled my agreements with the Prince in full. I was told to acquire Luna but not to harm her, which I have done. Further I was told to watch the village for signs of trouble, delay them if at all possible and warn the keep if at all possible. I have done what is possible, and now comes opportunity for the improbable. A bargain with a human, however unlikely that might seem."

Granas nods and motions for Trask to keep his sword sheathed. "Perhaps not as unlikely as first thought. I am willing to strike a deal with you, Vizzani, and release you. You need to promise you will not immediately try to run and I will remove the magical net I have on you. Though if you attempt to flee before our bargain is complete, the next time we catch you my friend's sword will be all you negotiate with." Granas states, then turns to Trask and Mürrischer "Are you both willing to give this one a chance?" Granas asks of his allies. Granas takes a moment to communicate with his familiar as well. Skye, be ready to chase him if he runs. Granas says while staring at Vizzani

Assuming they say yes, and Vizzani agrees he won't try to run, Granas drops the magic net then crosses his arms. "You are free, but now you owe us the information. How to we cure our friend from the magical transformation? What idea do you have to create a distraction within the Keep beyond the Golem? What is the easiest means of egress to get inside the Keep and avoid the Guards? Where is Luna and the book being held within the Keep?" Granas asks, outlining each of his questions as plainly as possible.

Contigency: If he tries to run, Magic Net through Skye or himself depending who is closer.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Wed Sep 04, 2024 5:39 pm

Perception: 1d100: [63] = 63 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [14] = 14 , 1d100: [53] = 53
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Trask keeps to himself as Vizzini rants and Granas talks with him, just shuffling his hammer into the crook of his elbow as he crosses his arms. When Granas accepts his Vizzini's deal, Trask nods, and just shifts his foot a little. "I'll follow your lead on this Granas." Trask says. Seen this before, usually ends the same, but who knows maybe it'll be different. Trask thinks as Granas frees the Fae. "Mürrischer, you should let the wise know-it-all down so he can do as he promised. I wouldn't worry much, there will be plenty of fighting sooner or later." Trask says to the Wolfen. Almost as an afterthought Trask pulls another of his cards, and taps the corner, setting the small clearing as a location. Better safe to have a fall back, than not. Trask thinks.

Mürrischer Reisender · Wed Sep 04, 2024 6:23 pm

Perception: 1d100: [89] = 89 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [8] = 8 / 1d100: [1] = 1

The Wolfen stops in his tracks, now questioning why he's even bothered holding onto the goblin this long. He listens to what Vizzini has to say and only lowers the goblin a little after a moment. Any less talkative and I'd've lost this little green man a while ago.

Hearing that the others agree on the release of Vizzini to some degree, Mürrischer simply lets go of the goblin from the height he was held at and just lets him fall to the ground. He lets out a breath before speaking, "Alright green man. How do we keep from the goblins and get to our elf?"

Post by **Locknar** » Thu Sep 12, 2024 6:18 pm

Vizzini's Cunning Plan
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:10pm

Granas, with a dismissive flick of his wrist, dispels the magical net, releasing Vizzini. Mürrischer, likewise releases the goblin, expecting him to tumble to the ground. However, Vizzini lands nimbly on his feet, his agility smooth and well practiced.

He straightens his sleeves and smirks, a glint of triumph in his eyes. "I knew you'd see sense," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Never doubted it!"

After hearing Granas' questions, Vizzini corrects him, "Vizzani? It's Vizzini!" Then beady little eyes narrow in thought.

Vizzini's voice takes on the sort of conspiring tone merchants use when deciding on the price of bread before market day. His face is a gleeful mixture of cunning and arrogance, then he begins. "Luna is held in a room on the first floor, a comfortable little room, but with a single door that cannot be opened without the proper key. Rugen's magic seals it shut, and only he can unlock it."

He pauses, his eyes darting between the group. "To open it yourself, you'll need to answer the riddle that guards the door. A talking mouth, if you will. I haven't heard the riddle, so you'll need to think on your feet."

Vizzini's voice lightens as he paces around the group in a wide circle. His eyes are everywhere; the trees, the ground, and each of you in turn. He seems the sort who likes to think on his feet. "You have several clear advantages. Humperdinck and Rugen, along with their retinue, are off on a hunt. They do not know you are coming, and thanks to me you have detailed knowledge of their remaining defenses. A real window of opportunity."

He grins wickedly, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I have three plans, each with its own risks and rewards. The first is the simplest. Luna's room has a window, a small one, but it would be simplicity for a tiny creature to squeeze through. I can point out the right window and all you need to do is sneak up there and convince her to eat one of my enchanted grubs that turns one into a weevil. She can then scuttle out and you are free to go. No one will know you were even there until you are long gone."

Vizzini pauses, watching the group's faces to see that his words have sunken in. "The keep is guarded by bugbears," Vizzini describes in a low voice, and he looks over his shoulder. "Shapechangers like me, but not as devilishly handsome." He fails to resist a smirk. "If you enter through the main gate, you'll have to fight them. I imagine you can handle them, but you'll also attract the attention of the Albino, and you definitely don't want to be around when he makes an appearance."

Vizzini pauses. "If the alarm is raised, without a suitable distraction, the Albino will appear and melt your faces before you can hope to free your friend."

"The second plan is riskier, as it allows the possibility of the Albino ruining your day. But it could yield a significant reward. You enter the keep through the first-floor balcony, but you'll need a distraction. That's where your odd-looking golem comes in. Have it attack the front gate, draw the Albino's attention. That should give you time to reach Luna's room and answer the riddle. You may also find books and treasures as you make your escape."

He leans forward, his eyes intense. "The third plan is the most audacious. If you have the courage, you could activate the Machine. It too is located on the first floor. That would teleport the entire keep away, leaving Humperdinck stranded here. Along with any guardians busy fighting outside at the gate! You'd become the ruler of the keep. Humperdinck is the greatest of hunters and any other plan risks him finding you after you flee with his Priestess or treasures. But take the keep from under him and he is lost here forever! It is an elegant, beautiful plan, if I may say so."

Vizzini's voice drops to a whisper, and he looks about as if fearful of being overheard. "It's a gamble, but the rewards could be immense."

If pressed on what the cure for Alwin is, Vizzini laughs. "To cure your friend, all you need is this. Time. Give him that and he will be himself once more soon enough. Though how long it lasts is entirely unpredictable."

If pressed on what to do with other goblins, Vizzini explains. "If you encounter any other goblins, simply tell them 'Vizzini dice, "Vuelve al principio."' They will immediately understand the message and leave the area." The goblin pauses, then adds, "It's a secret code, a passphrase that will tell them this job is over. They will meet with me elsewhere."

Any characters who understand Gobbely will know this means "Vizzini says, 'Go back to the beginning.'"

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 14min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Thu Sep 12, 2024 7:50 pm

Perception: 1d100: [67] = 67 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [5] = 5 / 1d20: [5] = 5

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is perched nearby, observing and waiting for the Raven Goblin to try running again

Track by Sight: 1d100: [77] = 77 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [83] = 83 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [5] = 5 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Vizzini wrote:"Vizzani? It's Vizzini!"

Granas offers a slight bow of his head. "Vizzini." Granas says his name, accepting the correction. Granas then listens to the explanation from Vizzini while controlling his thoughts to see the big picture without a predisposition or expectation. He pulls out his journal and records the key details Vizzini tells the group so that they can make an informed decision. Ultimately, the idea of leaving the Keep with Humperdinick doesn't sit well with Granas. If the Changeling Prince has proven anything to Granas so far, it's that he does not shy away from killing what's in his way and and he undoubtedly will seek revenge if left with such a powerful tool as this Keep is. I am also concerned about what this Albino might be... best to avoid it entirely. Granas considers.

Granas looks at Vizzini. "I have some follow up questions. You still haven't answered how to cure our transformed ally. And what of others of your kin?" Granas asks, still holding his notebook and recording what Vizzini explains with a nod. "So time will cure our friend, likely based on how much he ate which I confess I do not know. This phrase, Vuelve al principio, Go Back to the Beginning..." Granas pauses. "If you and your kin were to help us in more than just words, such as a guide within its walls, and we manage to steal the Keep. You could return with us then we go our separate ways. Humperdinck need not know of your involvement." Granas suggests for Vizzini to consider, then turns to Trask and Mürrischer.

"Though risky and audacious, as our new friend says, I believe stealing the Keep and trapping Humperdinck here is our best bet. I can have the Golem attack the front gates with some protective magic cast onto it with orders to draw them back. I can also send a magic message to those still guarding the portal and tell them to retreat through it as we have found our own way back. We then sneak in during the Golem's assault, possibly with a guide, and take control of this Machine while the Albino and most of the defenses engage the Golem, and transport out of this place." Granas explains his plan then pauses. "What do you think?" Granas asks of his teammates.

Mürrischer Reisender · Mon Sep 16, 2024 9:40 am

Perception: 1d100: [74] = 74 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [14] = 14 / 1d100: [85] = 85

He hears the plan and ways to go about it and thinks which he likes the most. Bug Bear? I've never encountered those. Uuuh. But do I know something about those? He tries to recall if he ever at least heard about Bug Bears somewhere before getting here. Even if he can't, he's confident enough in himself to be able to deal with them if he needed to.

Demon and Monster Lore: 1d100: [31] = 31 /35%

Vhut is dis Albino I should Vorry about?" He asks, not sure a vague warning is enough to go.

"And a keep Vould be much better than Vut we have at the moment." He Answers Granas with the hint at how the party is effectively a band of wandering homeless men at the moment.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Wed Sep 18, 2024 3:43 pm

Perception: 1d100: [7] = 7 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [5] = 5 , 1d100: [79] = 79
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks).

Trask listens to Vizini lay out his "brilliant" plans, just listening, and being respectful to not interrupt till the creature is done speaking. Plan one, feed Luna a grub and sneak her out the window. Surprisingly a simple and generally risk free plan, if Vizini isn't lying about the effects wearing off. Plan two, cause a distraction with the marshmallow golem, sneak in and rescue her in the usual manner. Not bad if it works. Plan three, steal the keep... honestly didn't see that one coming. If Vizini is telling the truth about Humperdink being trapped here, that is I suppose good enough. I don't think Utu sent me to kill him, more than likely to save his priestess. Let's see what Granas thinks. Trask muses.

Granas wrote:"Though risky and audacious, as our new friend says, I believe stealing the Keep and trapping Humperdinck here is our best bet. I can have the Golem attack the front gates with some protective magic cast onto it with orders to draw them back. I can also send a magic message to those still guarding the portal and tell them to retreat through it as we have found our own way back. We then sneak in during the Golem's assault, possibly with a guide, and take control of this Machine while the Albino and most of the defenses engage the Golem, and transport out of this place."

"What do you think?"

Mürrischer wrote:"And a keep Vould be much better than Vut we have at the moment."

Trask nods. "While likely the craziest of the plans Plan three also exposes us to less repercussions in the long run. I agree, let's steal the keep and be done with this mess." Trask says.

Trask looks to Vizini. "So now what? Do you just run off into the woods?" Trask asks genuinely unsure of what the Cobbler Goblin is planning.

Post by **Locknar** » Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:31 am

Recruiting Vizzini
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:13pm

Granas wrote: ↑Thu Sep 12, 2024 7:50 pm Granas pauses. "If you and your kin were to help us in more than just words, such as a guide within its walls, and we manage to steal the Keep. You could return with us then we go our separate ways. Humperdinck need not know of your involvement." Granas suggests for Vizzini to consider, then turns to Trask and Mürrischer.

Vizzini, sensing sweet opportunity, leans forward. "If you want more help, I'm quite willing to go beyond words," he offers, his voice dripping with a mixture of arrogance and sincerity. "I can accompany you as a guide, a silent shadow within your midst. Not like this of course." He pauses, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Imagine me, a tiny rat, scurrying through the halls of the keep, scouting out your enemies, and leading the right way to your Luna."

He pauses again, a sly grin spreading across his face. "And if you manage to steal the keep, you could indeed deliver me anywhere." Vizzini's eyes gleam with a calculating intensity. "Naturally I have a condition. Once we've succeeded, I want teleportation to a place of my choosing. A faraway land, which I'll decide on later."

Granas wrote: ↑Thu Sep 12, 2024 7:50 pm"Though risky and audacious, as our new friend says, I believe stealing the Keep and trapping Humperdinck here is our best bet. I can have the Golem attack the front gates with some protective magic cast onto it with orders to draw them back. I can also send a magic message to those still guarding the portal and tell them to retreat through it as we have found our own way back. We then sneak in during the Golem's assault, possibly with a guide, and take control of this Machine while the Albino and most of the defenses engage the Golem, and transport out of this place." Granas explains his plan then pauses. "What do you think?" Granas asks of his teammates.

There is some discussion between our heroes about the wisdom of their plans, and the Wolfen directs a question to the goblin.

Mürrischer Reisender wrote: ↑Mon Sep 16, 2024 9:40 am Vhut is dis Albino I should Vorry about?" He asks, not sure a vague warning is enough to go.

"The Albino," Vizzini begins, in a low and hushed voice, "is a creature of pure light. It's as if an angel was corrupted, and twisted into something terrifying."

He pauses, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and fascination. "It's like watching a ghost, a phantom that can pass through walls and strike without warning. I've seen blades pass through it, as if it were mere mist, yet it can blind its enemies with a light that would make the sun seem like a candle."

Tolliver Trask wrote: ↑Wed Sep 18, 2024 3:43 pm Trask looks to Vizini. "So now what? Do you just run off into the woods?" Trask asks genuinely unsure of what the Cobbler Goblin is planning.

He hesitates, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "If you like. But agree to taking my crew anywhere we like and my goblins will help take the keep." His beady little eyes eyes fix themselves on Granas. "While you're busy freeing your friend, and The Albino is distracted, my goblins can work on a secondary task. There are other prisoners in the keep, beings who yearn for freedom. As long as The Albino distracted, freeing them isn't an inconceivably suicidal proposal. Getting to them won't be easy. Not easy at all. But ours are a resourceful people."

Vizzini's voice takes on a more sinister tone. "And if we succeed in freeing them, they will be very angry at any of Humperdinck's guards that happen to be in inconvenient places within the keep. Rather useful I would think."

He leans back against a tree, waiting for a formal response to his bargaining. It seems rather important to Vizzini that plans are agreed to before he commits. If the party agrees, he claps his hands together enthusiastically. He seems to be in his element with striking deals. "If we are agreed, we should go at once."

Then he stops, and looks about again, as if fearing being overheard. He sighs. "The worst part is not knowing where HE is. I don't think The Albino is anywhere near us. There's no reason for him to be. It's inconceivable! He isn't the sneaking sort. But there's an old goblin saying, 'While a goblin's luck is shining, strike!'. I feel it in my bones if we wait too long something will go very wrong."

He points, "The keep is that way. 5 minutes at a run." With a gesture the cobbler goblin suddenly transforms into a black raven, ready for flight. "Ready?"

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 146/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 11min
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P.
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82;

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:44 pm

Perception: 1d100: [98] = 98 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [93] = 93 / 1d20: [6] = 6

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Skye
Skye is perched nearby, observing and waiting for the Raven Goblin to try running again

Track by Sight: 1d100: [21] = 21 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [7] = 7 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [10] = 10 /88% (Not getting shot at or attacked)

Skills

Post

Vizzini wrote:"If we are agreed, we should go at once."

Granas listens to the fast talking goblin with a degree of wariness but holds his thoughts. "Yes. If we are successful, then using the Keep to transport you somewhere safe of your choosing for you and your kin is a worthy ask. I would also like to see your kin free whatever prisoners are within its walls." Granas glances towards Mürrischer and Trask and nods once then turns back to Vizzini. "We have an accord. Lead on and stay within sight. My avian friend will shadow you." Granas says, nodding at his familiar, Skye. Skye, follow Vizzini. When we arrive at the Keep, find a perch in the tower and observe the front gates as the Golem attacks. I will need to know when the Albino leaves the Keep.

Looking towards the others, Granas nods towards the direction of the Keep. "When we are close to the Keep, I will recast some protective magic for you. My reserves are not limitless, so I would like to wait until it's needed. Come, let us go and steal a keep." Granas says to his fellows. If there are any Koala-men nearby, Granas tips his hood to them. "Please thank the Chief for his hospitality, and I hope we are able to meet again under better circumstances." Granas says. (If the Chief is nearby, he will address the Chief directly.) Granas also takes a moment to summon a Magic Pigeon [-20 PPE] with a to the troops remaining at the portal. Granas will also absorb the magical energy stored in his wand battery to replenish his reserves. [+60 PPE]

Granas will order his golem to follow them as quietly as possible towards the Keep. Once they are near the Keep, he will turn to the Golem. "Attack the front gates of the Keep, then lead those that engage you away from the Keep. Attack with your full force and hold nothing back. You must draw the enemy away from the building." Granas orders his golem then uses his Wand of Aegis to weave Armor of Ithan on the three of them, then cast Invisibility Simple on them before proceeding [-18 PPE, 6 PPE ea]. Granas will turn to Mürrischer and Trask. "We should move quickly so that we can sneak in with Vizzini while the golem is attacking."

Code Blocks

Code: Select all

[AoI: 6th Level | 6min | 160 SDC, AR 18 | Magic fire, lightning, cold 1/2 DMG]

Code: Select all

[Invis Simple: 8th Level | 24 mins]

Mürrischer Reisender · Sun Sep 22, 2024 11:18 am

Perception: 1d100: [41] = 41 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [5] = 5 / 1d100: [94] = 94

The answer to his question gains an uncertain ear turn and looks to Granas like he would have an answer, "Vut kind of magic is dat?"

"Ja." He responds as they golem begins to go for the keep. He watches a moment longer before getting his cloak out and getting it on then bow out. "Sviftly and quiet as possible."

He starts down a flank of the way to the front gate, hoping to avoid getting caught in the fight or worse detected as he clings to the shadows the trees and brush cast as he proceeds swiftly and quietly as he can. At the same time he listens for the fighting so he can hopefully avoid it and watches for signs someone had expected or even suspected someone would try to sneak into the keep from anywhere other than the front gate.

Prowl: 1d100: [56] = 56 /45% [+20% to prowl from the Cloak of Shadows] For sneaking around the fight if it should sound like it's close.
Prowl: 1d100: [42] = 42 /45% [+20% to prowl from the Cloak of Shadows] For sneaking to the Keep.
Detect Ambush: 1d100: [83] = 83 /55%

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Mon Sep 23, 2024 5:41 pm

Perception: 1d100: [87] = 87 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [6] = 6 , 1d100: [60] = 60
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks), (8 minutes).

Prowl 1d100: [46] = 46 /47% Success (This includes the armor penalty) (To attempt to move quietly while near the keep.)
Detect Ambush 1d100: [73] = 73 /65% Failure (Looking for trouble.)
Detect Concealment & Traps 1d100: [99] = 99 /60% Critical Failure! (Looking for trouble.)
Land Navigation 1d100: [45] = 45 /50% Success (Keeping on course.)
Manifest (-4 I.S.P.; 8 minutes)

Trask almost completely ignores Vizini, letting Granas run the show at the moment. Once the go ahead if called, Trask takes a few moments to make some minor adjustments to the various belts and straps holding his gear secure. Once Granas is done with his spells, Trask speaks up. "Simple or Superior?" Trask questions the variety of invisibility cast upon him.

Trask moves towards the direction of the keep at a trot, no point in trying to stealth until they're closer to the keep, given it's supposedly five minutes away if Vizini is to be trusted. Once the keep is in sight, Trask then attempts to move quietly. Once to the keep, Trask looks for the easiest way in, but holds till he hears combat for sure.

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Tue Sep 24, 2024 7:38 am

Granas Rolls Held wrote: ↑Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:44 pm Perception: 1d100: [98] = 98 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [93] = 93 / 1d20: [6] = 6

Conditions: PPE Remaining: 146/245 | ISP Remaining: 32/54 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | Tongues [40 Min | All Languages 98%] | Mind Block [No Psi Abilities available]

Mürrischer wrote:"Vut kind of magic is dat?"

Trask wrote: "Simple or Superior?"

Granas actually shows a smile that his teammates are showing an interest in learning more about the magic being cast on them than simply accepting it. "I'm weaving a simple invisibility spell over you, it will last for around 24 minutes and will remain active even during combat. Normal vision and even nightvision won't be able to see you, but you will still make sounds. The armor spell I weaved using the wand is of a much shorter duration, but I will be able to swiftly recast it without pulling into my reserves. Should we need more, I can cast a more advanced version of the armor spell as well." Granas explains, then mentally slaps himself. I'm not in a school, they don't need an in depth explanation right now. Granas thinks then rolls his eyes with a half-smile as his mental words echo around him. "Sorry, I can tend to over-explain. Come, let us go."

As people start trucking off, Granas realizes he can't see them, and they probably can't see each other and a sudden mental face palm as he beckons them back. "Wait!" Granas exclaims, then casts See the Invisible on himself so he can see his allies, "We should be able to see each other with an extra bit of magic." Granas adds then casts it on Mürrischer and Trask (if Trask needs it, if he doesn't he will abstain)

Post by **Locknar** » Tue Sep 24, 2024 9:23 pm

Let Battle Commence!
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:20pm

Then the wizard pauses. In the short time they had, he seems to have grown fond of the koala folk. He wants to say goodbye, to thank them for their hospitality. But alas there is no one to bid farewell to. The koalas are back in Gumsmoke. Rigel too is nowhere to be seen. He must still be in Gumsmoke with Alwin and the others.

With a heavy heart, Granas turns his attention to the task at hand. He summons a pigeon and dictates a message. Then the pigeon takes flight, carrying Granas' message to the troops stationed at the portal. Mürrischer meanwhile dons his cloak of shadows, for he feels the time has come for stealth. Its magical inky blackness envelops him.

Granas wrote: ↑Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:44 pm Granas listens to the fast talking goblin with a degree of wariness but holds his thoughts. "Yes. If we are successful, then using the Keep to transport you somewhere safe of your choosing for you and your kin is a worthy ask. I would also like to see your kin free whatever prisoners are within its walls." Granas glances towards Mürrischer and Trask and nods once then turns back to Vizzini. "We have an accord. Lead on and stay within sight. My avian friend will shadow you." Granas says, nodding at his familiar, Skye. Skye, follow Vizzini. When we arrive at the Keep, find a perch in the tower and observe the front gates as the Golem attacks. I will need to know when the Albino leaves the Keep.

Vizzini and Granas seal their newfound alliance and the group hastens through the dense undergrowth. The cobbler goblin, now transformed into a raven, flutters ahead, leading the way. Skye shadows him from the higher branches above. The Marshmallow Golem lumbers along also.

After a few minutes Vizzini lands on a branch and stops. His beady eyes scan the surrounding area as our heroes catch up. He points a wing through a gap in the trees. There you all see a small, squat keep, its walls weathered and worn. Unlike the grand castles seen shadowing cities, this one seems almost... accidental, as if it had simply fallen from the sky. Trees poke out from beneath the foundations, their trunks crushed and twisted.

At the base of the keep, a group of fuzzy creatures lounge about the stairs, their large, round eyes fixed on a game of dice. They resemble oversized teddy bears, their fur a soft, brown color.

Vizzini's voice, a low whisper, explains. "Those are the bugbears," he warns. "Mad bastards, every one of them. You don't want to tangle with them, especially their leader, Havoc."

He pauses, his eyes alight with a mixture of fear and excitement. "They might look innocent and sweet, but they can turn into killing machines in an instant."

Granas wrote: ↑Thu Sep 19, 2024 1:44 pm Granas will order his golem to follow them as quietly as possible towards the Keep. Once they are near the Keep, he will turn to the Golem. "Attack the front gates of the Keep, then lead those that engage you away from the Keep. Attack with your full force and hold nothing back. You must draw the enemy away from the building."

Granas, his voice firm and commanding, turns to the marshmallow golem. "Attack the front gates of the Keep," he orders. "Lead those who engage you away from the keep. Attack with your full force and hold nothing back. You must draw the enemy away from the building."

The golem simply nods its head, and its delicate eyes glow with an unnatural light. Despite its towering height, it is a delicate, almost-fey creature with thin arms, a crown of flowers and elfin ears.

Yet as it walks towards the keep, a surprising transformation begins. Its pale, sugar-dusted skin swells and grows, and its body expands rapidly. It grows taller, heavier, and far more terrifying. The once delicate creature is soon a monstrous behemoth, its marshmallow form towering over its foes.

With a thunderous roar, the elfin maiden of marshmallic terror lumbers forward. Its massive feet shake the ground, sending tremors our heroes can feel underfoot. The bugbears, their game of dice interrupted, look up in mute shock. Their eyes widen as they behold the sugary horror that approaches.

To their credit, the bugbears react with surprising alacrity. Scrambling to their feet, one bugbear produces a bell and begins clanging it with all his might. The piercing sound echoes through the woods; a call to arms. A few of the bugbears vanish into thin air, seemingly working whatever bugbear magic they have to ... erm ... bear.

The remaining bugbears draw weapons, their eyes filled with a feral determination. Two of them raise bows, and their arrows whistle through the air with deadly accuracy. Another hurls an axe, its blade spinning high and true. The weapons strike the golem square in the chest, but the marshmallow exterior parts like water, absorbing the attacks and the weapons whole. Whether the blows have any effect on the golem is unclear to all.

Meanwhile Granas focuses on weaving his wand magic, and casts an Armor of Ithan spell on his two companions. This is followed by an invisibility spell from his own magical reserves. Trask activates his ability to see the invisible, whilst the wolfen ranger sees everyone vanish. But there is much to distract the wolfen's attentions as the battle before them escalates.

One might find it difficult to pull one's eyes away from the unfolding spectacle. And yet Trask and Mürrischer do so and look for possible ambush points awaiting them. They find none. It appears the golem has wholly engrossed the attentions of the keep's defenders.

Indeed, the golem's battle with the bugbears is becoming a terrifying display of raw power.

A pair of bugbears materialise behind the golem, their forms shifting from humanoid to a frightful bear-like shape. They lunge at the golem, their claws raking at where its Achilles tendons ought to be. If a golem even has tendons. The result? One bugbear emerges with a mouthful of sticky marshmallow, its face contorted in disgust. The other becomes trapped, its head stuck in the golem's sugary goo! It howls in protest, swiping at the golem with its paw, only to become further entangled.

The golem, unfazed by the attacks, reaches down and grasps the trapped bugbear. With a mighty heave, it lifts the creature high above its head and hurled it towards the keep. The bugbear crashes into the wall, and our heroes hear a sickening splattering sound on impact.

The remaining bugbears, their eyes filled with rage, charge at the golem. They vanish into thin air, reappearing in a circle around the giant creature. Their forms shift to that of powerful ursine terrors, and muscles ripple beneath their fur. And then the battle is joined.

Vizzini's Guidance.
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:20pm

"This way!" squawks Vizzini. "Whereever you are?!"

It is at this moment Granas realises his error. Not everyone is blessed with the ability to see the invisible. He somewhat sheepishly, and quickly, casts Detect Invisible upon both Vizzini and Mürrischer (-8 P.P.E.). Then the cobbler flutters ahead, and the party follows as stealthily as they can. They complete a near half-circle around the keep before Vizzini stops.

"There!" he says, pointing a wing at the keep.

A balcony, its railings adorned with intricate carvings, protrudes from the first floor of the keep. It appears to be a short climb from the ground, but a perilous one, requiring a twenty-five-foot dash across open ground to reach it.

"Once you get up there, there are two doors," Vizzini continues. "Take the left door, never the right. The left door opens into a dining hall. From there, exit into the corridor and go straight ahead. At the end of the corridor, you'll find a stairway leading down and a door to the right. Don't go down the stairs. The door on the right is Luna's door."

The Albino's Counterattack.
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:20pm

Though the heroes cannot see it from their position, Granas's osprey familiar, Skye, can. Through their mental link, the bird's panicked thoughts echo in Granas' mind. Light! Skye warns, its mental state can only be described as fearful.

Granas, if he desires, may focus on the bird's vision. If he does, he sees a figure of pure white standing outside the keep, a robe of light flowing around it. It is likely to be the Albino, its ethereal form even more terrifying than Vizzini's description.

The Albino regards the golem with a calm, emotionless gaze.

A sudden flash of light erupts from the golem, it is a blinding burst of energy that momentarily blinds the ring of bugbears assaulting the golem. The bugbears howl in unison, a cacophony of pain and rage. Alas the light flash does not seem to affect the Albino in the slightest. Instead, The Albino's eyes glow with an unnatural intensity, and then two streams of white-hot energy shoot forth. The energy beams strike the golem with devastating force.

The golem lets out a blood-curdling scream, its body convulsing as the energy cuts a hole through a mashmallow arm.

On the other side of the keep, none of the others witness this event. Though Mürrischer, his nose twitching, catches a whiff of burnt caramel.

Granas, if you chose to see through Skye's eyes please save vs Horror Factor 14.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?

Butcher's Bill
Granas: 41/41 H.P., 22/22 S.D.C., 32/54 I.S.P., 160/245 P.P.E. | Bareleaf Smoke | Tongues 4min | AoI: 6min, 160 S.D.C. | Invis Simple: 24 mins
Mürrischer: 30/30 H.P., 9/29 S.D.C., 22/28 I.S.P. | AoI: 6min, 160 S.D.C. | Invis Simple: 24 mins | See Invis: 8 mins
Tolliver: 49/49 H.P., 71/71 S.D.C., 27/44 I.S.P. | Armor: Splint Mail AR: 16; 82/82; | AoI: 6min, 160 S.D.C. | Invis Simple: 24 mins

Mürrischer Reisender · Sat Sep 28, 2024 9:22 am

Perception: 1d100: [14] = 14 /43%
JIC: 1d20: [2] = 2 / 1d100: [82] = 82

The Wolfen seems to avoid being caught even when the Bugbears come into view and told of a Havoc, whomever of the three that could be. Cloak and magic concealing him from the fight before and during the start of the fight as he goes around it for a different way in. The sickening splattering causes his head to turn momentarily as he goes, not stopping so he isn't caught in the fight.

He turns in the direction called out by Vizzini, only just now paying attention to the fact he might not just be cloaked by his cloak but doesn't spend much thought on it and stops with a balcony in view. He grumbles at his lack of an easy way up. He has A rope long enough to reach, but no jump, no hook, not even a fancy magic thing like presumably Granas. He gets a loop tied in the end of the rope if he sees something that seems to be protruding enough ad high enough to get up to the balcony. If he does, he throws the rope and hopes it catches the protrusion and hauls himself up swiftly as possible

Get a rope loop on a good enough protrusion near the balcony 1d20: [1] = 1
Rappel up the wall 1d100: [80] = 80 /45%

An ear twitches in the direction toward the keep for a moment and not long after almost looks back that way at the smell of distant burnt caramel. Oh. That can't be good. He focuses on getting onto the balcony or inside if that should be when he catches the smell.

Granas · Post by **Granas** » Sat Sep 28, 2024 10:33 am

Perception: 1d100: [20] = 20 /61%
JiC: 1d100: [43] = 43 / 1d20: [4] = 4

Conditions: Sixth Sense [Inactive, 2ISP] | PPE used: 10/245 | Spell Strength: 15 | Familiar Empathetic/Telepathic Link 600ft | AoI: 6min, 160 S.D.C. | Invis Simple: 24 mins | See Invis: 8 mins

Skye
Skye remains perched far above on the Keep observing the battle with the Golem, out of the way.

Track by Sight: 1d100: [52] = 52 /88%
Track by Smell: 1d100: [98] = 98 /60%
Prowl: 1d100: [48] = 48 /88% (Not getting shot at)

Skills
Climb, Scale Walls: 1d100: [16] = 16 /52% [Scale the wall]
Prowl: 1d100: [80] = 80 /42% [Move quietly up the wall]

Post

Vizzini wrote:"Once you get up there, there are two doors," Vizzini continues. "Take the left door, never the right. The left door opens into a dining hall. From there, exit into the corridor and go straight ahead. At the end of the corridor, you'll find a stairway leading down and a door to the right. Don't go down the stairs. The door on the right is Luna's door."

As soon as Granas finishes weaving his magic, he follows Vizzini around the Keep and looks up at the wall. Granas looks to Vizzini. "Where is the Machine that transports the Keep located?" Granas asks and hopefully receives some direction. He turns to Trask and Mürrischer. "We should scale the wall, If I cast fly on us all, I will burn through what reserves I have left. If either of you are more adept at climbing, perhaps you could go first and toss a rope to make it easier for us" Granas suggests before adding. "Remember, my invisibility spell only makes you unseen, not unheard. So move quietly. " Granas explains as he feels the fear from his familiar. Remain calm, friend, and still. Let me know when the Golem falls. Granas orders his familiar and doesn't take a peek, instead worrying about maximizing their time and beginning to climb.

Contingency: If anyone slips and falls, Granas will cast on them.

Tolliver Trask · Post by **Tolliver Trask** » Mon Sep 30, 2024 5:10 pm

Perception: 1d100: [34] = 34 /65%
Just in Case: 1d20: [7] = 7 , 1d100: [4] = 4
Conditions: Sixth Sense (Inactive), Ambidextrous, Resistant to Cold (Soupcon; 1/2 damage from Cold based attacks), (3 minutes).

Prowl 1d100: [33] = 33 /47% success (This includes the armor penalty) (To attempt to move quietly while near the keep.)
Climb/Scale Walls 1d100: [44] = 44 /90% success (Climb the wall)

Trask moves methodically across the twenty-five foot exclusion zone, stopping at the base of the wall. Climbed worse, Northholme comes to mind. Trask thinks as he goes to the task of climbing up to the balcony. Experienced hands find cracks and lips, while time tested techniques in where to place ones feet follow, with Trask getting over the railing of the balcony. The old warrior takes a moment to look for any threats, before playing out a length of rope and tying it to the rail, before dropping it below for anyone struggling. Once the task is done, Trask unslings his hammer and moves into a place of cover, waiting for the whole group to arrive. Step one complete, now on to the hard part.

Post by **Locknar** » Thu Oct 03, 2024 7:14 pm

A daring ascent. With complications.
Unknown Jungle
Date: 25 September, 345
Weather: Clear skies
Time: 2:22pm

Mürrischer, Trask, and Granas, their hearts pounding with adrenaline, rush over the 25-foot gap to the wall of Wayfarer's Keep. They scan their surroundings, their eyes darting back and forth, searching for any sign of danger. None are apparent.

High above, Vizzini, still a raven, lands on the balcony edge, his beady eyes surveying the scene about him. He nods, signaling that the coast is clear.

Mürrischer, uncoils a loop of rope and hurls it upwards towards the balcony, hoping to catch something to aid his ascent. However, the throw is a disaster! The rope barely escapes his grasp before gravity pulls it back down, and it lands squarely on Granas' head. If the wolfen blushes with embarrassment, it is well hidden beneath his thick fur.

Undeterred, Trask and Granas prove that humanity are indeed descended from monkeys as they both scale the wall with surprising ease. Their hands find purchase in the gaps between the stones, and their strength and dexterity overcome the challenge. With bodies moving with the swift agility of their forefathers, they soon join Vizzini on the balcony.

They too scan the surrounding area with cautious eyes. To their relief, no enemies await them. Trask quickly lowers a rope for Mürrischer, and he begins his ascent. Unfortunately, halfway up, he loses his grip and slides back down the wall.

Vizzini hisses in frustration. "He's a disgrace," he mutters softly.

Granas, ever the resourceful one, casts a weightlessness spell on Mürrischer (-6 P.P.E.). The wolfen, now floating effortlessly, is easily pulled up the wall by Trask, who reels him in like a giant weightless furry salmon.

Now all are on the balcony. Before you is a a heavy, oak behemoth of a door. It is open ever so slightly. The wood was thick and sturdy, its grain swirling in intricate patterns. A brass bell, tarnished with age, hangs from the center of the door.

Otherwise, the balcony continues to the right, following the perimeter of the keep.

WHAT ARE YOUR INTENTIONS?