Author Topic: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast  (Read 1543374 times)

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #345 on: May 11, 2025, 07:53:54 AM »
[Thursday, Spring 20, 18:00, Clear, 14C]

[After a long day but just fed and watered, Sandra and Sophia are both in good spirits and happy to be out of the pen and into a wide open space with plenty of forage and water about. The cool air feels good after all that pulling and walking. The pleasant weather is helping their mood. The quiet of the prairie is comforting. They have an initial excitement of being able to sleep in the outdoors and not in their crampt smelly stables. Starting Score +++++]

Ashley Nya! Don't let them invade your space Nya. Signal them to back off if they go for your stuff Nya!

"Alright relax!" Ashley puts her pack in the cart.



Nyaa take it easy Nya I can only handle one mule at a time Nya! Make sure your summons don't engage them in any way Nya! Sandra Nya and Sophia Nya don't have to love your summons Nya it's enough if they ignore them Nya!

"We'll see..."

[Beatrice]

Give her some time Nya and wait a bit Nya! ... See Nya? That what happens if they only associate you with food Nya!

[Cat's exclamations and heightened worry is mirrored on the girls][-1, Score ++++]

[Mr. Bigglesworth]


Nyaa remember girls first of all you focus on me Nya what's going on over there isn't important Nya.

[Cat's soothing tones and common directions reassures the girls that this is normal][+2 Score ++++++]

[Olga]

[The loud noise has startled them][-2 score ++++]
[Sophia is scared at first][-1 score +++]


Cat again directs Sophia's attention to her by raising a hand then walks a round with her before slowly approaching the cats again. Then she moves Sandra and Sophia to a greater distance.

[Cat's calm and busy attention makes the girls feel more comfortable][+2, Score +++++]

[Nixie]

Cat immediately moves in front of Sophia, gives her a verbal cue with the click of her tongue and is able to keep Sophia under control with the come-a-long rope. The mule soon realizes that struggling causes more discomfort than calmly retreating alongside Cat and she so keeps her attention at the large but calm Barbarian. Cat angrily calls out to Ashley to keep her summon under control
Ashley Nya! What did I tell you Nya!? I can't handle them both Nya!

[Cat's harsh tones puts the girls on edge][-1, Score ++++]

"We're calm Cat, just breathe, you're the Mule whisperer, be confident." Ashley begins the summon.

After a startling bang, an overwhelmed handler and a scary monster appearing before them, both mules are literally shaking with fear.[-3, Score +]

Ashley Nya! Make Nixie move away a bit Nya and face the other way Nya. She should pretend we aren't here Nya!
Cat leads Sophia on a zigzag path, sometimes slower, sometimes faster, back and forth from Nixie while everyone else remains calm, also not paying attention to her. This way Sophia can understand that everyone is aware of Nixie but nobody perceives her as threat.

Cat's direction and careful attention to Sophia has deescalated the situation for her, but Sandra was neglected.[+2, -1, Score ++]

Cat laughs at the interaction
That's the way Nya! They gotta learn to keep their noses off us Nya!

Cat's jovial demeanor and light hearted tone reassures the mules[+1 Score +++]

[Ashley Panther]

Cat steps in and directs Sandra's attention to her.
You focus on me Nya no need to worry about Ashley right now Nya!
Cat leads Sandra away to the cart and lets her take a sniff at Ashley's robe without getting close enough to chew on it, then right back to Ashley Panther, circling her in a spiral path so Sandra can compare the scent while staying focused on Cat's commands. Then she leads both mules away so they can let the experience settle - ad receive their treats.

The sudden shift is confusing to the mules, they're growing wary of this game and can't take much more, they're overall anxious of what's next, but Cat's actions has reassured them well.[-3, +2 Score ++]

[In the end Sandra forgets the whole ordeal when she receives her treat, Sophia is slightly better but still wary.][-1, +1 Score ++]


Though left shaken, they are also left reassured and have bonded further with Cat, they are reassured by her in a time of trouble and will respond favorably next time something scary happens as long as Cat reassures them. They're slightly less secure then they were before but that will fade by the morning as long as nothing further disturbs them. Bringing them closer to their baseline.

[From here on out, I will track their mood and stamina, currently they have a mood of ++(2) and a stamina of 0, Maximum for both is 10, stamina is replaced after a long rest, mood slowly heals over time or is boosted by positive experiences and eroded by negative ones. If they go below 0 mood you will start to see them complain, further deterioration will cause further acting out they will attempt to escape the situation at -5 but will stay within a few hundred feet, and at -10 they will throw a tantrum, possibly breaking things, and attempt to run back to Neverwinter. As long as they're together, their moods and staminas are averaged and they will act together as a team and will not separate willingly, they are a reassurance to each other and have bonded.

[Thursday, Spring 20, 19:00, Clear, 10C]

After dinner Yulya goes to rest in the tent but is frequently woken by weird summoning- animal and Alice noises

After the show, Ashley Panther pushes her way into the tent, vocalizes to a sleepy frazzled Yulya and curls up in the corner.

Yulya is left supposing she'll have third shift.

Shortly after, Yulya is almost asleep when Nixie pushes her way in, tracking sand, followed close by Olga and Mr. Bigglesworth.

A whirring din of motors and gears play a symphony of dissonant rapture. Their every movement the machinations of machinery. The small space is warmed by these hot bodies and within a minute Olga starts panting, the rhythmic noise is akin to a well water pump, and Nixie begins cleaning herself, the only part of her not making noise is her tongue.

The constant ticking, whirring and humming of their mechatherial parts are the essence of audio anarchy--the worst color of noise.


[Ashley can't dismiss her summons in her current form. She barely recognizes them as 'hers'.

Meanwhile, Cat and Alice are making more poison [3/5] and the girls have decided to munch on nearby grass even though they've already been fed. Please keep track of their feed.

[Thursday, Spring 20, 23:00, Clear, 10C]

The poison batch was successful without interruption.

[Interactions required, please decide what you want to do next. You are about 5 hours to the rest stop and 10 hours to the Triboar Trail. At the head of the Triboar trail there is a minor rest stop area that is sometimes but rarely used by traders to look over their carts and tend their animals before continuing.
« Last Edit: May 11, 2025, 08:20:49 AM by Wofl »

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #346 on: May 11, 2025, 02:57:52 PM »
After the show, Ashley Panther pushes her way into the tent, vocalizes to a sleepy frazzled Yulya and curls up in the corner.

Yulya is left supposing she'll have third shift.

Shortly after, Yulya is almost asleep when Nixie pushes her way in, tracking sand, followed close by Olga and Mr. Bigglesworth.
A whirring din of motors and gears play a symphony of dissonant rapture. Their every movement the machinations of machinery. The small space is warmed by these hot bodies and within a minute Olga starts panting, the rhythmic noise is akin to a well water pump, and Nixie begins cleaning herself, the only part of her not making noise is her tongue.
The constant ticking, whirring and humming of their mechatherial parts are the essence of audio anarchy--the worst color of noise.


[Ashley can't dismiss her summons in her current form. She barely recognizes them as 'hers'.
Yulya has always been a light sleeper and extrelemy sensitive to noise. Her years living as a hermit in near absolute silence have further lowered her noise tolerance. Being confronted by 3 noisy mecha invaders she is on the verge of a breakdown...



After a moment of being frozen in despair Yulya crawls out of the tent to seek help
Alice - Cat!
I cannot rest like this! Ashleys summons have taken over the tent and are making noise and bring dirt inside!
Yulya knows this keyword will trigger a response from Alice

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #347 on: May 11, 2025, 06:10:43 PM »
Alice jolts up from cooking hearing 'dirt' in combination with 'tent' and drops her spoon
WHAAAT??

Alice dashes into the tent and finds herself in a noisy steamy hot atmosphere as various cats are cramped around Ashley panther. The tent's groundsheet is defiled with sand, dirty paw prints and a few scratches...

After several seconds of staring at the scene in disbelief, Alice explodes in a fit of anger and starts yelling at the occupiers
YOU EEEDIOTS!
GET OUT OF MY TENT YOU DIRTY FLEABAGS!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fZfEFumJBU&t=278



Go play with the mules or something but stay OUT of our tent and be QUIET!
Alice shoves the summons out and starts cleaning the tent floor mumbling alien curses

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #348 on: May 12, 2025, 06:53:51 AM »
Cat is alarmed by the ruckus in the tent and comes to check things out and finds Alice having a meltdown



She quickly helps her to direct the mecha-cats out of the tent in a friendly but firm way, just like handling the mules, to avoid her getting bitten to pieces again
Nyaa calm down Alice Nya they just followed Ashley panther Nya!
You girls still have to stay outside Nya we can't all sleep in the tent and Yulya's gotta rest Nya!

Cat prepares a space under the cart near Ashley's clothes and the mules, hoping the cats will spend the night there.
Cat turns to Yulya, slightly worried

Nyaa that's a bit troublesome Nya! Who controls them when Ashley's a Panther Nya? She's too carefree Nya! Do you think the mecha-cats Nya,  they could even attack us Nya? If Alice annoys them or something Nya? I wouldn't wanna have to go against 5 of them Nya...

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #349 on: May 12, 2025, 09:25:21 PM »
Alice - Cat!
I cannot rest like this! Ashley's summons have taken over the tent and are making noise and bring dirt inside!

As the din of machine and motion climaxed, Yulya couldn't take another moment.

WHAAAT?? YOU EEEDIOTS! GET OUT OF MY TENT YOU DIRTY FLEABAGS!

Every bird within a half mile suddenly flapped away from the thunderous roar of Alice.

Mr. Bigglesworth nope'd out the tent faster than lightning, startling Olga who lost her sense of direction, nearly ripping through the wrong end of the tent before finding her way out.

This is better?

Nixie stares at Alice with barely restrained anger, miraculously not tearing her in half but she either refuses to move or doesn't understand the interruption of her sleep.

FAFO incoming.

Cat is alarmed by the ruckus in the tent and comes to check things out and finds Alice having a meltdown

She sees two scared kittens bolt out the door as Alice's roar is now countered by Nixie's equivalent roar.

Needless to say, Sandra and Sophia are scared half to death by both Alice's outburst and Nixie's counter.

[Mood -2]SANDRA REST[0/8] HP[25/25] AC10 MOOD[0] STAMINA[0]
[Mood -2]SOPHIA REST[0/8] HP[19/19] AC10 MOOD[0] STAMINA[0]


She quickly helps her to direct the mecha-cats out of the tent in a friendly but firm way, just like handling the mules, to avoid her getting bitten to pieces again.

Nyaa calm down Alice Nya they just followed Ashley panther Nya!
You girls still have to stay outside Nya we can't all sleep in the tent and Yulya's gotta rest Nya!

Nixie isn't convinced by even Cat's firm but fair commands, she's angry and not in the mood to be bossed around.

[Nixie may be Ashley's summon, but she's still a wild creature of the negative plane. She's not swayed by Animal handling techniques for domesticated animals.]

All this vocalization finally wakes up Ashley.



The only thing she hears is Nixie when she is so rudely awakened from her slumber. Hearing Nixie complaining, she let's out a howl that would send a demon king to the underwear drawer and pounces on Nixie, dragging her out by the scruff of her neck like a cub. Using unnatural, adrenaline fueled strength, Nixie is dragged outside the firelight, then you hear them brawl for a few seconds before Ashley Panther returns, sticks her head in the tent and growls one last time at Alice for good measure.

Cat prepares a space under the cart near Ashley's clothes and the mules, hoping the cats will spend the night there.

Ashley Panther sees Cat and jumps on top of the cart where her robe and clothes are, finds a comfortable position and beds back down. Nixie shortly follows her up and begins grooming her with her tongue. Olga and Mr. Bigglesworth return to the cart after a few minutes making a large warm pile of fur and metal under the cool night air.

Cat turns to Yulya, slightly worried
Nyaa that's a bit troublesome Nya! Who controls them when Ashley's a Panther Nya? She's too carefree Nya! Do you think the mecha-cats Nya,  they could even attack us Nya? If Alice annoys them or something Nya? I wouldn't wanna have to go against 5 of them Nya...

[They're left to fend for themselves mostly but see her as the alpha female regardless of species and follow her cues, usually to fight with her but otherwise look to her for guidance. They won't ever be more then 3 summons. The other cats have mental cues when Ashley is awake and are left with them when she's asleep or in panther form, so they know who is part of the pack and who isn't. Even if Alice bopped Nixie on the nose, she wouldn't attack Alice but Ashley Panther probably would defend her summons if she was enraged or if something attacked them, but if any of you did, it would be more like a correction bite and not her full bite.]

[Survival Rolls Presuming the order: Alice is up till 0100 on guard duty, Cat from 0100-0300, Yulya from 0300-0500 and wake any of the summons at 5am to be up till 9am, Ashley will likely despawn them when she wakes, I'm adding a requirement that she cannot gain MP while she has spawns active. I want to discourage her from just keeping summons active indefinitely. I'm also considering removing the requirement to rest to replenish MP, that it will just replenish a little each hour.]


[Friday, Spring 21, 02:45, Clear, 10C]

With Cat on guard duty, keeping the fire going, she hears the distinctive snorting of boars looking for food. The fire keeps them at bay and they scatter when she stands to get a better look at them.

[Friday, Spring 21, 07:07, Partly Cloudy, 10C]

Shortly after Dawn, hours after Yulya went back to sleep, Ashley awakens to the sound of a large cart passing on the High Road. Naked but warm, she quickly puts on her clothes and looks to see what they have, she doesn't bother stopping them when she sees all they're selling is Industrial supplies and blacksmithing tools. Realizing Nixie is actively draining her mana regeneration, she pats her on the head and says goodbye, her despawn is otherwise silent, she fluffs away with a puff of heavy purple smoke. Wondering how she ended up in the cart, Olga and Mr.Bigglesworth are just fine to keep her warm, now fully dressed and she tries to sleep some more as Mr. Bigglesworth-Sentry keeps watch.

[Friday, Spring 21, 09:00, Partly Cloudy, 11C]

With the sun rising in the east through light clouds, everyone is finally awake.
« Last Edit: May 12, 2025, 09:48:51 PM by Wofl »

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #350 on: May 13, 2025, 08:59:06 AM »
Nixie isn't convinced by even Cat's firm but fair commands, she's angry and not in the mood to be bossed around.
[Nixie may be Ashley's summon, but she's still a wild creature of the negative plane. She's not swayed by Animal handling techniques for domesticated animals.]
Cat is glad the situation is resolved by Ashley Panther (relatively) non-violently without anyone getting hurt.

Needless to say, Sandra and Sophia are scared half to death by both Alice's outburst and Nixie's counter.
Cat tries to calm down the poor terrified mules, brushing them with her paws
Nyaa sorry girls Nya that was quite a day Nya!
I admit we're a bit odd Nya but you'll see we'll take good care of you Nya!

[Friday, Spring 21, 09:00, Partly Cloudy, 11C]
With the sun rising in the east through light clouds, everyone is finally awake.
Cat stretches and exits the tent
Nyawn Good Morning Nya! Looks like a nice day Nya!



Cat prepares half a ration for breakfast for everyone then looks after Sandra and Sophia.
How was your first noght out here Nya? Luckily it was calm Nya. Imagine an ambush on your first day as well Nya...

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #351 on: May 13, 2025, 04:08:52 PM »
Every bird within a half mile suddenly flapped away from the thunderous roar of Alice.

Mr. Bigglesworth nope'd out the tent faster than lightning, startling Olga who lost her sense of direction, nearly ripping through the wrong end of the tent before finding her way out.
Yulya helplessly watches the chaos unfold in a chain reaction as Alice makes the mecha cats flee in terror and her attempts to calm the situaltion simply drown in the mayhem. Maybe dragging her into this was not the best idea?
Uhm please dont fight!



Ashley Panther resolves the situation and moves onto the cart before Yulya can even think of a way to make a meaningful contribution

Cat turns to Yulya, slightly worried
Nyaa that's a bit troublesome Nya! Who controls them when Ashley's a Panther Nya? She's too carefree Nya! Do you think the mecha-cats Nya,  they could even attack us Nya? If Alice annoys them or something Nya? I wouldn't wanna have to go against 5 of them Nya...
Yulya is just relieved everything has calmed down.
I believe Ashley can summon a maximum of 3 but even 3 are a formidable force. But you need not worry, I do not think they would attack us. There is enough sense in them even if Ashleys in her panther form... I hope!
But still I prefer to have her as human. It makes communication a lot easier...

Yulya sighs as she bows to Alice and Cat
In any case I thank you! Even if you went a bit overboard I can now hopefully rest in the tent undisturbed. I shall go back to sleep now.
Yulya takes off her shoes and makes sure not a morsel of dust enters the tent. One Alice freakout is enough.

[Friday, Spring 21, 09:00, Partly Cloudy, 11C]
Yulya awakes from Cat's loud yawn
Good morning!
It looks like we had a quiet night! I hope we can make good progress today and advance to the start of Triboar Trail! How are the mules doing Cat?

When all is packed up and everyones ready to depart Yulya summons her party
I would like to make this a morning ritual of sort! I will cast AID on all of you each day from now on! Remind me should I forget to do so for whatever reason!

Yulya casts AID on Alice, Ashley, and Cat

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #352 on: May 14, 2025, 03:33:22 PM »
Nixie stares at Alice with barely restrained anger, miraculously not tearing her in half but she either refuses to move or doesn't understand the interruption of her sleep.
Alice cracks her none-existing knuckles
Oh, a tough one?
I won't hold back when it's about dirt in my tent you know?

Nyaa calm down Alice Nya they just followed Ashley panther Nya!
Neither Alice nor Nixie are convinced by Cat's firm but fair words and angrily face each other

All this vocalization finally wakes up Ashley.
The only thing she hears is Nixie when she is so rudely awakened from her slumber. Hearing Nixie complaining, she let's out a howl that would send a demon king to the underwear drawer and pounces on Nixie, dragging her out by the scruff of her neck like a cub. Using unnatural, adrenaline fueled strength, Nixie is dragged outside the firelight, then you hear them brawl for a few seconds before Ashley Panther returns, sticks her head in the tent and growls one last time at Alice for good measure.
Alice keeps a pokerface but is also glad the situation is resolved like that
Hey, don't get mad at me, it was your summons that got out of control! Are we supposed to sleep outside because they occupy the tent? Now let's get outta here! I gotta resume cooking and Yulya's gotta sleep!



After her guard duty, Alice moves into the tent and reshapes into macrophage mode. Eerie yellowish tendrils engulf the sleeping Yulya, leaving her and her clothes spotlessly clean. The same repeats a while later as Cat finishes her duty.

[Friday, Spring 21, 09:00, Partly Cloudy, 11C]
With the sun rising in the east through light clouds, everyone is finally awake.
Alice awakes last, sleepy from the nightly cleaning business.
Mh, morning!
At least the weather's still relatively nice and warm...

Alice does a final cleaning round inside the tent, then packs it up with Yulya.

I would like to make this a morning ritual of sort! I will cast AID on all of you each day from now on! Remind me should I forget to do so for whatever reason!

Yulya casts AID on Alice, Ashley, and Cat
Hey, this is a nice boost!
Magic sure is awesome...

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #353 on: May 14, 2025, 06:33:32 PM »
Cat tries to calm down the poor terrified mules, brushing them with her paws
Nyaa sorry girls Nya that was quite a day Nya!



[Mood +2]SANDRA REST[0/8] HP[25/25] AC10 MOOD[2] STAMINA[0]
[Mood +2]SOPHIA REST[0/8] HP[19/19] AC10 MOOD[2] STAMINA[0]



Best picture of the campaign award! Alice has gained 1 inspiration point which can be used per 5e rules.


Ashley steps off the cart and stretches, "That's not comfortable, see? This is one of the reasons I hate camping." She then goes to Cat and sits, awaiting meal. Mr. Bigglesworth and Olga come up meowing for food, with a snap of her fingers, they're back in the negative plane. "Temporary bodies don't get food. I never had to eat in the negative plane, I don't know how it works."



[Friday, Spring 21, 09:00, Partly Cloudy, 11C]

I would like to make this a morning ritual of sort! I will cast AID on all of you each day from now on! Remind me should I forget to do so for whatever reason!

Because that spell is made to be abused, I recorded it as the following:

-AID AURA YULYA'S ESSENCE EXTENDS TO HER PARTY MEMBERS AND WILL BESTOW TEMPORARY HP REFRESHING EVERY DAY AT DAWN: 5HP AT LEVEL 3, 10HP AT LEVEL 5, 15HP AT LEVEL 7 AND 20HP AT LEVEL 9. 

So your ritual will go without saying.


The party packs up and gets back on the road.

[Survival Rolls]

[Friday, Spring 21, 12:49, Partly Cloudy, 17C, 11.5 miles]

As you're looking forward to having lunch, waiting for the next little rest spot to pull over, a carriage approaches, it's a man and woman, humans, being pulled by a pair of draft horses in an ambulance.





It's a shiny new black ambulance, and Ashley can't keep her eyes off it as it passes.



"Ooh, love that. What I wouldn't give for that... well actually I know what I'd give, like 100 gold! Nice horses too, I like the little white patches."

[Friday, Spring 21, 13:00, Partly Cloudy, 17C, 12 miles]

You've made it to the rest area, the same red and blue tents are there but no other carts are currently parked. You stop and eat, the girls are watered in a trough and hope to soon be back on the road.

[Don't forget to keep track of your rations.]



Hanna pokes her head out of her tent and waves. Ashley waves back and she walks over to check out your new cart and mules. "Oh look at you, these girls are beautiful." She pats both of them on the necks and smiles at you all. "It's been a while, it's nice to see you all again."

[Interactions optional]

"Just wait till I get my carriage, it's going to be amazing."

"I can't wait to see it then, these girls will probably be proud to pull it," she said and rubbed Sophia's neck.

Sophia stops eating for a moment to sniff her then bobs her head and goes back to eating.

"Nah, I'm going to have my own beasts. I just haven't decided what yet."

"I love donkey's, they're cute and so expressive," she says with a friendly flick of her wrist as she pushes her long hair back.

"Totally, but I'll need something bigger. We'll see."

Hanna reaches for Ashley's hands, "You'll have to come back and visit when you're a rich trader, I'd love to borrow your kitten again."

Ashley reluctantly took her hand, wondering what she was going to do, "oh, right, sure."
 
Soon enough you're back on the road

[Friday, Spring 21, 15:19, Partly Cloudy, 16C, 17 miles]

Ashley spots something on the side of the road, it's a small ruined advertisement for some sort of cure-all. She stuffs it in with the kindling and you continue on.

[Friday, Spring 21, 18:00, Partly Cloudy, 14C]

The sun hangs low in the sky and you approach the Triboar Trail turn and into the small rest stop there. In the gravel at the turn you notice fresh tracks heading East wagon wheels and two sets of horses traveling quickly, it's unusual only because it looks like they took the turn rather fast. Amid the upturned gravel Ashley finds another scrap of paper, it's a part of a manifest, old and holey, she can only make out a few words toward the bottom they were transporting swords and other equipment.

"The Triboar trail is our next leg and it'll likely take all day, so don't stay up too late, I'd be willing to take the first shift, we should each take 2 hours so then we'll only need 10, I'll summon some of my friends to watch second shift so we can manage it. So you all should go to bed by 20:00? Really? Anyway I'll be up till 22:00 then my summons, then you all should plan on watching in two hours shifts till morning." Ashley spawns Olga and Helga far enough away from the girls so the noise isn't too frightening and gives them their alfalfa blocks before she forgets.

"You girls made it 9 hours today! Wow, good job!" She lavishes attention on them and they've completely forgotten she has candy.

[Mood +2]SANDRA REST[0/8] HP[25/25] AC10 MOOD[4] STAMINA[1]
[Mood +2]SOPHIA REST[0/8] HP[19/19] AC10 MOOD[5] STAMINA[1]


"We have a big day tomorrow, so get some good rest!"

Lastly she hands Alice a candy where the girls can't see. "Someone's got to eat them I guess."

[It's already that time to set up and get to doing whatever you want to do the rest of the day. Please state your guard order]



Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #354 on: May 14, 2025, 08:42:46 PM »
Ashley steps off the cart and stretches, "That's not comfortable, see? This is one of the reasons I hate camping." She then goes to Cat and sits, awaiting meal.
Nyaa, sorry you had to sleep in the cart Nya but your summons all wanted to be in the tent Nya...
Cat hands Ashley her ration

The party packs up and gets back on the road.
Cat puts Sandra in front of the cart for the first half of the day again.
Let's go girls Nya!

As you're looking forward to having lunch, waiting for the next little rest spot to pull over, a carriage approaches, it's a man and woman, humans, being pulled by a pair of draft horses in an ambulance.
It's a shiny new black ambulance, and Ashley can't keep her eyes off it as it passes.
"Ooh, love that. What I wouldn't give for that... well actually I know what I'd give, like 100 gold! Nice horses too, I like the little white patches."
Cat only partly shares Ashley's enthusiasm.
Nya it looks ok Nya...

[Friday, Spring 21, 13:00, Partly Cloudy, 17C, 12 miles]
You've made it to the rest area, the same red and blue tents are there but no other carts are currently parked. You stop and eat, the girls are watered in a trough and hope to soon be back on the road.
Cat warms and hands out another half ration to everyone

Hanna pokes her head out of her tent and waves. Ashley waves back and she walks over to check out your new cart and mules. "Oh look at you, these girls are beautiful." She pats both of them on the necks and smiles at you all. "It's been a while, it's nice to see you all again."
Cat waves a paw at the familiar face
Hello Hanna Nya how are you doing Nya? Do you like our cart and mules Nyaa?



Leaving the rest stop, Cat switches the mules so Sophia is now pulling the cart.
You did great Sandra Nya! Let's see if Sophia's also up for the job today Nya!

The sun hangs low in the sky and you approach the Triboar Trail turn and into the small rest stop there. In the gravel at the turn you notice fresh tracks heading East wagon wheels and two sets of horses traveling quickly, it's unusual only because it looks like they took the turn rather fast. Amid the upturned gravel Ashley finds another scrap of paper, it's a part of a manifest, old and holey, she can only make out a few words toward the bottom they were transporting swords and other equipment.
Cat investigates and sniffs the tracks
Nyaa do you think this was Summer's carriage Nya? She must have been ahead of us Nya unless she flew or something Nya...

"The Triboar trail is our next leg and it'll likely take all day, so don't stay up too late, I'd be willing to take the first shift, we should each take 2 hours so then we'll only need 10, I'll summon some of my friends to watch second shift so we can manage it. So you all should go to bed by 20:00? Really? Anyway I'll be up till 22:00 then my summons, then you all should plan on watching in two hours shifts till morning." Ashley spawns Olga and Helga far enough away from the girls so the noise isn't too frightening and gives them their alfalfa blocks before she forgets.
"You girls made it 9 hours today! Wow, good job!" She lavishes attention on them and they've completely forgotten she has candy.
Cat agrees while she tends to the mules removing their gear and handing out feed while brushing gand patting them.
Nya good plan Nya. I will prepare dinner Nya! Can you look for water for our girls Nya? I don't care about shifts Nya you work that out Nya!

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #355 on: May 15, 2025, 03:37:15 PM »
Ashley goes to Cat and sits, awaiting meal. Mr. Bigglesworth and Olga come up meowing for food, with a snap of her fingers, they're back in the negative plane. "Temporary bodies don't get food. I never had to eat in the negative plane, I don't know how it works."
Don't fret, nobody does.
Alice remarks while packing up the tent
I've heard not even the Greater Demons understand it. It's maaagic!

[Friday, Spring 21, 12:49, Partly Cloudy, 17C, 11.5 miles]
As you're looking forward to having lunch, waiting for the next little rest spot to pull over, a carriage approaches, it's a man and woman, humans, being pulled by a pair of draft horses in an ambulance.
It's a shiny new black ambulance, and Ashley can't keep her eyes off it as it passes.
Alice takes off her wofl cloak in the warm air and tilts her head, looking at the ambulance
Yeah, it has style. But it sort of reminds me of something appropriate for a funeral...

[Friday, Spring 21, 13:00, Partly Cloudy, 17C, 12 miles]
You've made it to the rest area, the same red and blue tents are there but no other carts are currently parked. You stop and eat, the girls are watered in a trough and hope to soon be back on the road.
Cat warms and hands out another half ration to everyone
Alice is in good mood due to the warm weather and ample food from Cat

Hanna pokes her head out of her tent and waves. Ashley waves back and she walks over to check out your new cart and mules. "Oh look at you, these girls are beautiful." She pats both of them on the necks and smiles at you all. "It's been a while, it's nice to see you all again."
Alice recognizes Hanna waving at her with slight unease as she turns to Yulya
I still don't get how she survives out there completely on her own. Does she have some Summer-tier powers? What an odd guard for a rest stop...

[Friday, Spring 21, 18:00, Partly Cloudy, 14C]
The sun hangs low in the sky and you approach the Triboar Trail turn and into the small rest stop there. In the gravel at the turn you notice fresh tracks heading East wagon wheels and two sets of horses traveling quickly, it's unusual only because it looks like they took the turn rather fast. Amid the upturned gravel Ashley finds another scrap of paper, it's a part of a manifest, old and holey, she can only make out a few words toward the bottom they were transporting swords and other equipment.
Alice dons her wofl cloak as temperatures drop and sighs
Haa, I'm afraid it will be a while until I'll get to experience warm weather again. What's with today's trash? Well, we found that soap so I guess it's not bad.

Alice looks at the tracks
Yeah I bet that was Summer. Who else is in such a hurry to get to Phandalin? I hope she doesn't do anything stupid. I mean even more stupid.

"The Triboar trail is our next leg and it'll likely take all day, so don't stay up too late, I'd be willing to take the first shift, we should each take 2 hours so then we'll only need 10, I'll summon some of my friends to watch second shift so we can manage it. So you all should go to bed by 20:00? Really? Anyway I'll be up till 22:00 then my summons, then you all should plan on watching in two hours shifts till morning."
Alice sets up the tent.
I guess so. Let's use the reverse of yesterday's shifts when you were last! We have 3 batches of poison now so we don't need to make another but I'd like to use 1 batch and coat 10 arrows!

Alice goes to check on the mules after they have eaten. Their size doesn't make it easy for Alice to approach them as she longingly looks up at their ears.
How do you like it out here? So far things went well, I hope you can cope with the cold in the East, I certainly can't...

"You girls made it 9 hours today! Wow, good job!" She lavishes attention on them and they've completely forgotten she has candy.
Lastly she hands Alice a candy where the girls can't see. "Someone's got to eat them I guess."
Really? For me? Yayy, you're my best friend now!
Alice hugs Ashley and clings to her, unwilling to let go, except for maybe another candy


Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #356 on: May 15, 2025, 05:27:19 PM »
As you're looking forward to having lunch, waiting for the next little rest spot to pull over, a carriage approaches, it's a man and woman, humans, being pulled by a pair of draft horses in an ambulance.
Yulya greets the couple as they pass. Seeing other travelers is a good sign there is no trouble ahead.

Alice recognizes Hanna waving at her with slight unease as she turns to Yulya
I still don't get how she survives out there completely on her own. Does she have some Summer-tier powers? What an odd guard for a rest stop...
Yulya is the last person to fill Alice in on Hannas profession and equally oblivious
Yes indeed. She appears neither armed no armored. She must be a mage...

Hanna pokes her head out of her tent and waves. Ashley waves back and she walks over to check out your new cart and mules. "Oh look at you, these girls are beautiful." She pats both of them on the necks and smiles at you all. "It's been a while, it's nice to see you all again."
Greetings Miss Hanna!
I hope you are well out here all by yourself. Would you like to join us for lunch?
If you are in need of anything, as you see we can now transport a great amount of goods. It is so much more convenient than having to carry everything ourselves.
Has anything unusual occurred lately? Like a carriage rushing by in Southern direction?



Cat investigates and sniffs the tracks
Nyaa do you think this was Summer's carriage Nya? She must have been ahead of us Nya unless she flew or something Nya...
Yulya casts GUIDANCE on Cat to aid her investigation
Certainly that  appears logical. I also hope she safely makes it to Phandalin past goblins and bandits.

Nya. I will prepare dinner Nya! Can you look for water for our girls Nya? I don't care about shifts Nya you work that out Nya!
Yulya casts GUIDANCE on herself and searches the rest area for potential threats. Then she looks for water for the mules.

Let's use the reverse of yesterday's shifts when you were last! We have 3 batches of poison now so we don't need to make another but I'd like to use 1 batch and coat 10 arrows!
Yulya nods
So it shall be. First Ashley, then the lynxes followed by me, Cat and finally Alice! But as Ashley said, don not stay up too long for the arrows. I feel tomorrow will be a lot tougher than the previous days...

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #357 on: May 16, 2025, 01:10:07 PM »
[At the rest stop]

Greetings Miss Hanna! I hope you are well out here all by yourself. Would you like to join us for lunch?

Hello Hanna Nya how are you doing Nya? Do you like our cart and mules Nyaa?



"Hello and Yes Ms Yulya, I'd love to! I'm doing great, thank you! And Oh yes Ms Cat, well, I love all animals and I think your cart is so cute, it makes me want to be a trader now with my own little mule and tiny cart. I could travel and see the world and make coin anywhere, but where I am now is probably where I'll be for a very long time. I see my friends regularly and they'd miss me terribly."

If you are in need of anything, as you see we can now transport a great amount of goods. It is so much more convenient than having to carry everything ourselves. Has anything unusual occurred lately? Like a carriage rushing by in Southern direction?

"Oh thank you, but I have every opportunity to get everything I need from the regular traders." She thinks a few moments, "And yes, I did hear someone tearing down the road not too long ago, I thought it might have been a couple roadmasters as the horses sounded like they were galloping but then the sound of carriage wheels wouldn't make sense, I'm sorry though I didn't go out to look. I did see a fancy looking Ambulance pass, you don't see that often."

"It was kinda cool right? I want mine to have that sleak feel but maybe a little shorter."

"Oh, I hope you find one you like," Hanna said kindly. "So are any of you interested in having a little fun?"

Before anyone can say anything Ashley steps in, "if you mean fun as part of your profession then please no."

She smiles and winks at Ashley, "it's an open invitaiton if you're ever lonely out here on the road, we don't have to do anything crazy but sometimes just brushing each other's hair and soothing conversation can be very relaxing and open up ideas that you may not have thought of. I'm also an excellent masseuse and I am very good at helping set your mind straight. Many of my friends come just to talk and unwind after a long day on the road. I also have other treats you might like? I have a fine selection of pipe weed, longbottom leaf, herb, dokha, among others and I can also make soothing teas that will help you relax. Trust me, if you're feeling nervous or you're just on the fense, a few sips of certain teas can really loosen you up. Fun is a guarentee!" She thought a moment, "In fact, I was so happy you loaned your pet to me the other night, Ashley, I'd be willing to play a little with you gratis."



"Hard pass, no offense."

[At the Triboar head]

You did great Sandra Nya! Let's see if Sophia's also up for the job today Nya!

[Mood +1]SANDRA MOOD[5]

Cat investigates and sniffs the tracks Nyaa do you think this was Summer's carriage Nya? She must have been ahead of us Nya unless she flew or something Nya...

Yulya casts GUIDANCE on Cat to aid her investigation

[Perception (nose enhancement with GUIDANCE) 1d20+3+2+1d4=8]

Based on the tracks you can tell it was a carriage, lightly loaded and traveling at a speed pulled by two horses, consistant with the horses at a gallop. You follow the tracks down and the cart fishtailed right after the turn. Cat couldn't determine anything else.

[Such things can only be percieved once to gather clues or find hidden clues; however, someone could then 'investigate' to deduce based on clues. Unfortunately there weren't enough clues discovered here to pass the check even with a critical roll. Some things sometimes will remain a mystery, it's all part of the game.]

use 1 batch and coat 10 arrows!

The poison hardens as it cools, and can be applied after re-warming and is applied on to freshly honed blades or tips. Honing requires 1 hour for 2 blades or 5 arrow tips.

After Cat warms the vial, Alice applies a vial of poison on 10 of her arrows already honed arrows.

Alice now has in her quiver:
-[5/5] HONED ARROWS +1 [80/320] [BREAK IF HIT ROLL <=5]
-[10/10] POISONED ARROWS +1d2 [80/320] [BREAK IF HIT ROLL <=5]
-[5/5] BLUNT ARROWS [40/160] (FLY HALF AS FAR MAX) [BREAK IF HIT ROLL <=5]

Cat has in her quiver:
-[15/15] HONED ARROWS +1 [160/600] [BREAK IF HIT ROLL <=5]
-[5/5] BLUNT ARROWS [80/300] (FLY HALF AS FAR MAX) [BREAK IF HIT ROLL <=5]

The formulation of this particular poison will add an additional 1d2 poison damage and has a 50% chance to apply the poisoned condition up to Poison 1. Poison 1 would cause an additional 1 poison damage next turn. The Poisoned condition works as follows: Poison x applies x damage next turn, x-1 the following turn and so on until x reaches 0. So Poisoned 3 would cause 3, 2, and 1 damage on subsequent turns. Poison applied in this way does not have a save as it is forcibly applied on hit.

Honed arrows apply a non-magical +1 to damage and hit, a poisoned arrow would apply +x poison damage and retain the +1 to hit advantage. The poison damage can have advantages over the straight +1 for enemies weak to poison. To be clear, the lowest tier poison simply replaces the +1 piercing damage with poison damage, your formulation will replace the straight +1 damage with a potential to have as much as +2 with Poisoned 1 condition. For context, the Golbins have the lowest tier equivelent poison applied to non-honed arrows so their arrows have a 50% chance to apply +1 poison damage only. Though you could apply poison to non-honed arrows, you would also suffer that dramatic loss of effectiveness.


How do you like it out here? So far things went well, I hope you can cope with the cold in the East, I certainly can't...

Alice's attention to the mules does not go unnoticed. Though Sophia doesn't seem to be interested, Sandra was particularly interested in Alice's words and is momentarily fascinated, she quite enjoyed Alice's visit.

[Mood +2] SANDRA

[In general they will react favorably to interaction, but not always, and sometimes they may be offended by something you say or do. Sometimes soothing words and interactions are reassuring while frantic, harsh, loud or meniacle words will surely cause them stress.]


Really? For me? Yayy, you're my best friend now! Alice hugs Ashley and clings to her, unwilling to let go, except for maybe another candy.

Ashley pushes out of Alice's grip.



"This is the opposite of how you get candy in the future!"



Yulya casts GUIDANCE on herself and searches the rest area for potential threats. Then she looks for water for the mules.

[Perception 1d20+5+1d4=20]

The road and the area is desolate, only birds, a squirrel, and the light rustling of trees in the late evening breeze.

The nearly full moon brightens the landscape as night falls. You all go to sleep as Ashley watches the area, then she also turns in leaving Olga and Helga to watch. Shortly after the switch

[Friday, Spring 21, 22:31, Partly Cloudy, 11C]

[MANY ROLLS]


You're all disturbed by the hissing of Olga and Helga, Ashley peeks her head out of the tent and the sound of wolves howl in the distance. Ashley throws more wood on the fire, "Good work girls, but look, even the mules don't care. So chill a bit, it's just wolves in the distant forest." The other girls stand motionless, their eyes clamped shut.

[Saturday, Spring 22, 02:20, Partly Cloudy, 10C]

Alice is up and watching when she sees a couple guards on horseback escorting four refugees in chains heading North.

[You may say or do something or let them pass.]

The rest of the night passes without any interruptions.

[Saturday, Spring 22, 06:00, Partly Cloudy, 10C]
[Mood +3]SANDRA REST[0/8] HP[25/25] AC10 MOOD[7] STAMINA[10]
[Mood +0]SOPHIA REST[0/8] HP[19/19] AC10 MOOD[5] STAMINA[10]


It's a nice morning, the clouds in the east over the forest filter the sunlight but doesn't stop a few rays from reaching the vast sea to the West.

[It's a new day, Interactions are required.]

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #358 on: May 16, 2025, 04:13:35 PM »
"So are any of you interested in having a little fun?"
Alice enthusiastically wants to raise her hand but before anyone can say anything Ashley steps in

She smiles and winks at Ashley, "it's an open invitaiton if you're ever lonely out here on the road, we don't have to do anything crazy but sometimes just brushing each other's hair and soothing conversation can be very relaxing and open up ideas that you may not have thought of. I'm also an excellent masseuse and I am very good at helping set your mind straight. Many of my friends come just to talk and unwind after a long day on the road. I also have other treats you might like? I have a fine selection of pipe weed, longbottom leaf, herb, dokha, among others and I can also make soothing teas that will help you relax. Trust me, if you're feeling nervous or you're just on the fense, a few sips of certain teas can really loosen you up. Fun is a guarentee!" She thought a moment, "In fact, I was so happy you loaned your pet to me the other night, Ashley, I'd be willing to play a little with you gratis."
Alice half-follows the conversation with slight bewilderment but then focuses on her lunch again.

After Cat warms the vial, Alice applies a vial of poison on 10 of her arrows already honed arrows.
This doesn't look bad, but let's see how it works...

Alice's attention to the mules does not go unnoticed. Though Sophia doesn't seem to be interested, Sandra was particularly interested in Alice's words and is momentarily fascinated, she quite enjoyed Alice's visit.
Well, who knows, Sandra's fond of me after all? I'll pay you another visit when I'm on guard duty!

Ashley pushes out of Alice's grip.
"This is the opposite of how you get candy in the future!"
Alice is slightly disheartened
Whaat?
You're giving me candy to train me to stay away from you?



Alice is up and watching when she sees a couple guards on horseback escorting four refugees in chains heading North.
Alice takes off the hood of her wofl cloak so she's not mistaken for an animal and takes a look at the refugees wondering what they might have done to end up in that situation. However there's already enough trouble and getting involved with guards is not the best idea. Alice raises a hand in silent greeting to show the guards she's aware of them and not a threat.
After they are gone, Alice checks on the mules again


[Saturday, Spring 22, 06:00, Partly Cloudy, 10C]
It's a nice morning, the clouds in the east over the forest filter the sunlight but doesn't stop a few rays from reaching the vast sea to the West.
Alice wakes everyone and reports her encounter with the guards during breakfast.
Looks like the High Road is surprisingly safe at the moment. I doubt it'll stay like this further east...

Re: Campaign #1 - Somewhere on the Sword Coast
« Reply #359 on: May 16, 2025, 06:32:29 PM »
"Hello and Yes Ms Yulya, I'd love to! I'm doing great, thank you! And Oh yes Ms Cat, well, I love all animals and I think your cart is so cute, it makes me want to be a trader now with my own little mule and tiny cart. I could travel and see the world and make coin anywhere, but where I am now is probably where I'll be for a very long time. I see my friends regularly and they'd miss me terribly."
Yulya is impressed by the rest stop guards dedication

She smiles and winks at Ashley, "it's an open invitaiton if you're ever lonely out here on the road, we don't have to do anything crazy but sometimes just brushing each other's hair and soothing conversation can be very relaxing and open up ideas that you may not have thought of. I'm also an excellent masseuse and I am very good at helping set your mind straight. Many of my friends come just to talk and unwind after a long day on the road. I also have other treats you might like? I have a fine selection of pipe weed, longbottom leaf, herb, dokha, among others and I can also make soothing teas that will help you relax. Trust me, if you're feeling nervous or you're just on the fense, a few sips of certain teas can really loosen you up. Fun is a guarentee!" She thought a moment, "In fact, I was so happy you loaned your pet to me the other night, Ashley, I'd be willing to play a little with you gratis."
Yulya treats this as a matter between Ashley and Hanna and decides to politely stay out of matters she does not really understand.

[At the Triboar head]
The road and the area is desolate, only birds, a squirrel, and the light rustling of trees in the late evening breeze.
The nearly full moon brightens the landscape as night falls.
Yulya feels strangely relaxed. So far the journey has been going very well, no monsters, no bandits, no nobles or officials.

It's a nice morning, the clouds in the east over the forest filter the sunlight but doesn't stop a few rays from reaching the vast sea to the West.
Yulya awakens relieved there was no ambush during the night. She hears Alices story and nods.
As much as it troubles me seeing people in chains you were right not to interfere. We cannot afford to pick a fight with guards.
Yulya speaks a prayer to Eldath and SheShe that the prisoners may be judged fairly.



Again Yulya summons her party and blesses them with AID
Now let us hurry! We must depart early if we want to reach Phandalin today. I would rather not camp out at Triboar trail!