Seems like a good point to update you on, well, gold holdings. Everyone is now back to full health.

Gold:
124 Sir Gareth
98 Syntax
95 Zilmora
82 Faris
79 Astrid
63 Tsavani
63 Lyric
62 Mori'an
55 Professor
51 Wolfrik

Thursday, June 2

The locals living in this forest have a posted job board where they ask for help or assistance in various matters. I'm to take some jobs to earn some coin.

I don't really think anyone needs it, but we'll go ahead with it.

Locked Out of My Stump

"I've been locked out of my tree stump for days," says an old feline woman. "I've been staying with my sister until someone could open it for me. I lost my key and haven't been able to get anyone to open the lock. I don't want anyone to break the door down. My late husband carved that door himself and I'd rather die than see it destroyed." D20+Dex+Locksmith

Those able to pick the lock were Tsavani, Syntax, Mori'an, Faris, and Astrid. They were given 5 gold as a reward.

Lamplighters Needed

The lamps in the Arboretum are lit by magical means. Fire is outlawed. I'm tasked with going around light the dead lamps with magic. D20+WIS+Arcane Adept

Sir Gareth, Mori'an, Faris, Wolfrik, and Zilmora realize there are more lamps out than they anticipated. It's taken them several hours and can no longer channel the energy required to light the lamps. They're given 3g each.

Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Lyric, and Astrid take the same time to light the lamps but are able to get them all and 6 gold as a result.

Bird Trainers Wanted

Communication amongst the people in the tree is done primarily by birds. A rookery needs someone to help calm and train the latest flock of birds to be used. D20+CHA+Animal Tamer

In theory, this was the hardest job for them to accomplish, but many had animal tamer boosts.

All but Syntax and Astrid accomplished this. They got 5g for their service. Syntax and Astrid were given 2g for their time.

Friday, June 3

As I'm leaving the city of Arboretum, I'm stopped by two lion guards of the tree city. They do not recognize me. With heightened security due to the recent demon attack, they're pressing me for information on my purpose in the city and why I am here.

I can either
A) Convince them of my mission and intentions. D20+CHA+Persuasive.
or
B) Intimidate them into leaving me alone. D20+STR+Intimidating.
or
C) I don't have time for this. Just attack.

My initial plan was to split this up, but after starting to go down the path with Sir Gareth I realized it's likely they could be doing 1, 2, or all 3 options. I then decided everyone would start with trying to politely convince them and progressively get hostile.

Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Mori'an, Lyric (had to put on the charm for this), Wolfrik, and Astrid all successfully convinced the guards.

"Good luck on your journey and may the tree spirits guide you."

When that didn't work, Professor, Syntax, Faris, and Zilmora all tried to intimidate the lion guards...which did not go well.

The only other option at this point was to attack them. Each lose 1 virtue point as a result. Syntax was the only one of the four not to kill the guards...they got away.

There was a pickpocket opportunity for the guards...Syntax missed out on that.

Mori'an and Lyric took 1g off of them as they passed through. Astrid got 4g and lost a virtue point as well.

June 5/6, The Weekend

To the Gate Shard

My locater indicates the gate shard is in the middle of the forest somewhere close to Crater Lake, the only source of water that might be in this world. Time to set off in search of it.

Take the northern route or the southern route. "North" appears to be through the forest. "South" appears to be a little more clear. D20+WIS+Survivalist, Mount

Last time the first five did the first option...I'm positive of that. Today, we'll split them up 1 by 1.

Going "North"
Sir Gareth
Tsavani
Mori'an
Faris
Zilmora

Going "South"
The Professor
Syntax
Lyric
Wolfrik
Astrid

Northern route
I stick closer to the body of water in this world. It proves useful in supplying fishing and water resources, but it's also home to many foreign creatures as well. They don't take kindly to strangers in their land.

Tsavani was the only one unable to really live off the land while they traveled. She lost two rations. Everyone else lost 1. Mori'an did not have a ration and lost 1HP instead.

Southern route
This, by the way, proved to be the tougher of the two.
I travel along the mountain range. It aids me in my journey since it's often visible through the tree line, but there are no animals or water in this area.

Syntax takes the worst of it. It loses 3HP since it didn't have rations.

Everyone else lost 2 rations. Lyric only had one, so he lost 1HP and his ration instead.

Monday, June 6

I've been cautious of all the plant life of the forest since I'm not familiar with the flora of this world. However, I stepped on a vine and a large plant springs into motion to grab me. The vines pull me in closer to it's sinister mouth full of thorny teeth.

3 rounds, with dexterity. Fail the dexterity roll, and it's simply take damage.

Everyone loses at least one round today. Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Syntax, Wolfrik, and Zilmora managed to kill it...the others just managed to escape.

No true winner today, as everyone had a variety of 1 to 2 points lost in HP and 1g or 2g gained in winning the round. Astrid wore it today, though. She won just one round and lost 4HP.

Tuesday, June 7

I come to the place where my sensor indicates a shard of the gate should be. I find a large tree with a grotesque hole guarded by 2 Naga. These snake like people are armed and defending the access to the tree. They're not known for negotiating with others.

I can

A) Sneak around them. D20+DEX+Stealthy.
or
B) Scare the creatures to get them to flee. D20+STR+Intimidating
or
C) Surprise them with an attack.

The only ones with clear cut advantages here are Astrid and Tsavani to sneak and Wolfrik and Sir Gareth to intimidate. The others will surprise attack.

Astrid (26) successfully sneaks around them to avoid a confrontation. Tsavani (8) failed to do so. She'll have to fight them.

Sir Gareth (15) and Wolfrik's (21) threatening presence was enough to scare them off. No need to fight for either of them.

Syntax, Mori'an, Faris, and Zilmora all launched successful sneak attacks and gained +2 to their attack rolls. The rest had to just battle as normal, including Tsavani.

Of those battling the Naga, The Professor, Tsavani, Mori'an, and Zilmora killed both guards. Syntax, Lyric, and Faris lost 1HP each. They killed one but the other got away.

Wednesday, June 8

I stand below the giant tree. Looking up, I see a large crater high above several branches. Perhaps the gate shard fell there and burned a hole into the tree. If I can climb up there, maybe I can pluck the shard from the crater.

I'm to climb the branches of the tree. D20+STR+Athlete.

This turned out to be little interesting as I went to roll.

There are several branches to climb to get to the large crater in the tree. I need to get 5 successful "rolls" to climb the tree...and the number of 'successful' rolls cannot be less than zero.

Roll too low, lose a 'success' (as you fall down the tree) and 1HP.

Some rolls won't allow you a 'success' while others grant you 1 'success.'

Roll high enough and you gain 2 successes as you leap with grace and skill and grab a branch much higher than what was aimed for.

With strength and athlete modifiers, most of our crew had no problem. The minimum turns possibly is 3. The Professor, Lyric, and Faris all managed to do that. Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Syntax, and Astrid were right behind them with 4 tries. Wolfrik, despite his strength and athletic ability, had a tougher time climbing the tree. He got it done, though, in five tries.

Not so good awards to Mori'an and Zilmora. Neither are athletes and had just a 1 modifier for strength. They both lost 1HP as Mori'an got it done in 6 tires. Zilmora finally getting it done in 8.

Thursday, June 9

With a better view of the crater, I see splintered wood and tree bark from the initial impact when the gate shard fell and collided with the tree. Around the impact zone, there are blackened stains that look like scorch marks. Veins of the wood appear corrupted with a toxic looking substance. The crater is deep and has formed a tunnel in the large tree.

I'm to climb through the tunnel and avoid the taint. D20+DEX.

I then need to endure the corrupted substance. D20+CON.

Climbing through I found that the tunnel was narrow, making it difficult to almost impossible to get by without getting some of the tainted substance on me.

Lyric and Syntax were the only ones to avoid it completely. Everyone else suffered a 2 or 4 point penalty on the next roll from getting the substance on them.

The taint gets on my skin. It itches and burns. I breathe in the fumes and I get to the point of vomiting. My head spins and I start to get claustrophobic inside the tunnel.


It was "possible" to avoid damage here...but none of our 10 were able to manage it. Lyric suffered 2 points of damage but avoided it with his ability. Syntax was close, only losing 1HP. Astrid lost 2.

Losing 3 were Sir Gareth and Mori'an.

Losing 4HP were The Professor, Tsavani, Wolfrik, and Zilmora.

Faris wore it today, losing 5HP.

Friday, June 10

The pitch dark passageway begins to open up until I can finally stand. I come to a small room where I see several Naga sitting in worship around the glowing gate shard. They have not noticed me yet.

My options are the same as the last time I encountered the Naga, so I'll go with the same group again.

A) Sneak around them. D20+DEX+Stealthy.
or
B) Scare the creatures to get them to flee. D20+STR+Intimidating
or
C) Surprise them with an attack.

Sneaking around them works for Tsavani (16) but not Astrid (10). Astrid gets caught and must battle two of the Naga as the rest roll out. Tsavani gains +2 to damage for tomorrow's combat.

Scaring the creatures works again for both Sir Gareth (26) and Wolfrik (21). They each gain +2 defense tomorrow.

The surprise attack works for all but Faris. Everyone but Faris gains +2 to these attacks...Faris and Astrid will go in without the bonus.

The Professor, Mori'an, Lyric, and Zilmora dispatch both Naga that were left waiting to fight. Syntax, Faris, and Astrid all got one but the other got away. The three of them lost 1HP in the battle.

June 11/12, The Weekend

As I begin the ritual to take the gate shard, I hear a screeching from the tunnel. The noise grows louder as a large Naga Queen emerges from it. She's bigger than the others. She coils up...hissing and looking over at me. With rage and hatred, she lunges toward me.

I have to fight the Naga Queen. Three rounds of combat.

I then have to take the gate shard. D20+WIS+Danger Sense.

Wiping the floor with the Naga Queen were The Professor and Zilmora. Zilmora's fireball is just insane. The Queen didn't stand a chance. They're both given 3g.

Tsavani (-1HP, 2g), Syntax (-2HP, 1g), Faris (-1HP, 2g), and Wolfrik (-1HP, 2g) all managed to kill the Queen as well.

Sir Gareth (-1HP, 2g), Mori'an (-2HP, 1g), Lyric (-2HP, 1g), and Astrid (-2HP, 2g) all were hit in the final round allowing the Queen to escape.



That sense of dread comes over each of them as they approach the shard. In the end, Sir Gareth, Tsavani, and Lyric are cursed. Sir Gareth and Tsavani used abilities to clear it. Lyric used a Holy Water.

Ain't nobody got time to be cursed.

Monday, June 13

Once I remove the gate shard from the tree and store it in the World Watcher's Staff, the taint from the tree begins to retreat and fade away. After I make it back outside, limbs from the tree move toward me like magic and present three treasure items to me. The forest is thanking me for my help in removing the corruption from the world.

I can take one item.

Helm of Nature. +1WIS, DEF
Thorn Bracers. +1WIS, ATK
Belt of the Forest. +1WIS, HP

A little heavy on Helms and Bracers here. I got a clarification that bracers are separate from gloves...so one could have both on at the same time. A number of them have a Belt of some sort...so only a couple were taken.

Helm: Professor, Mori'an, Zilmora, Astrid
Bracer: Sir Gareth, Syntax, Lyric, Wolfrik
Belt: Tsavani, Faris

Tuesday, June 14

I don't make it far from the tree when I feel a rumbling from the ground below. Trees and branches begin to sway. A demon appears from a nearby bush...snorting and snarling.

3 rounds of combat with wisdom rolls...wisdom presumably to take the it out with the world watcher staff.

The only one to banish the demon on the first round was Zilmora, who used a spell point to boost her wisdom...not playing around. She lost a spell point, but gained a +1 for a future die roll and 3g.

Mori'an, Faris, and Astrid all banished the demon in the second round. Faris and Astrid lost 1HP in the first round. They got the same reward as Z.

Third round banishings went to The Professor and Tsavani. The Professor did lose 1HP but Tsavani did not.

The others killed the demon...gaining 3g. The interesting part here was there was no reward for just stunning it in the early rounds. The reward only came with the kill. Lyric and Wolfrik each lost 1HP.

Wednesday, June 15

To the Forest Temple

With the shard in my possession, I can now head to the gate. I hope it will be easy to spot since it might be the only large structure in the forest. I head north...but east or west?

According the the map, the only real reason to go northeast or northwest is the large lake.

We'll change it up this time. We'll go by alphabetical order...first five go east.

Travel roll: D20+WIS+Survivalist+Mount

Traveling East were Sir Gareth, Mori'an, Lyric, Faris, and Astrid. This turned out to be the tougher of the two routes. This route was a bad choice because there are a ton of insects that are mating and feasting on this side of the lake.

All but Lyric were able to find a plant that the insects avoided. They pick a number of them and cover their clothing. The insects are kept at bay and they travel quickly as a result.

Lyric was tired of the insects and drove further away from the lake as a result. It cost him time and in the end, 2HP.

Sir Gareth, Faris, and Astrid consumed 1 ration. Mori'an was without a ration and lost 1HP.

Travelling west was The Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Wolfrik, and Zilmora. While better in theory, the west marshy side of this lake proves tough to trudge through.

Syntax gets stuck and loses 2HP in the process. The others stick to tree roots to try and avoid the delay. It works for the most part. Professor, Tsavani, and Wolfrik all lose 1HP while Zilmora loses a ration.

Thursday, June 16

My sensor indicates I'm getting closer to the Terralon Gate in the forest just as two centaur guards run up to me from a place hidden in the bushes.

"Heed our warning. This place was built by the mighty Yarus, God of Life and Growth. It holds great secrets that are not meant for you. You should not tread here."

I can

Try to convince them of my mission and intent. D20+CHA+Persuasive.
or
Intimidate them into leaving me alone. D20+STR+Intimidating
or
the "Ain't nobody got time for that" option. Let's fight.

Given these circumstances, the last time I had this option, I was allowed to try one or the other before the fight. That said, everyone's going to try and charm, then bully, then fight if necessary.

They all put on the charm. It works for everyone but Tsavani (6), Syntax (0), and Astrid (6). Syntax was also working with a negative modifier given his -5 Virtue.

"Good luck on your journey and Yanus guide you."

Astrid was able to back the centaurs down after getting in their face, but that didn't work for Tsavani (1) or Syntax (11). Tsavani had a negative modifier for being too good (9 virtue). Syntax had a positive modifier, although it didn't help.

"We'll let Yarus and the traps within the temple deal with you."

Both Tsavani and Syntax killed the centaur guards. They both lost a virtue point in the process.

The thieves not named Syntax, since he killed the centaurs, had a pickpocket attempt on the centaurs. Lyric and Mori'an came away with 2 gold. Astrid with 1g.

Friday, June 17

I arrive at the Forest Temple. It's well hidden amongst the trees and shrouded by overgrowth. I walk up the stairs leading to the entrance when I suddenly feel my foot sink down until I hear a click. A pressure plate has been activated.

I hear a rumble as the stone door begins to close. Between me and the door, spikes begin shooting up out of the ground.

I need to dodge the spikes. D20+DEX+Danger Sense.

I then need to race to the entrance before the door closes. D20+DEX+Athlete.

Sir Gareth and Lyric were as nimble as a cow. They were hit numerous times and lost 3HP. Mori'an, Wolfrik, and Zilmora managed to do better, but still lost 1HP.

Leaping, twirling, rolling, and dodging with all the right moves were The Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Faris, and Astrid.

Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Syntax, Wolfrik, and Astrid all make it to the door quickly and walk underneath with plenty of time before it closes behind them. The last of the light disappears and they're left in the darkness.

Mori'an, Lyric, Faris, and Zilmora all make it before the door closes...but they have to drop to the ground quickly and slide under...losing 2HP in the process. Lyric negates this with an ability.

The Professor catches the door as it closes down on him. He's got to roll with his strength included to see if he can keep it up long enough for him to make it through...and he does, barely. He loses 2HP.

The weekend, June 18 and 19

Forest Temple

With the overgrowth present and traps obviously active, the centaur guards must have done a good job of keeping intruders out. I need to navigate this temple.

It appears to be set in a pyramid setting...where I'm at the bottom level. There are four levels.

There are two places to explore on the bottom level...and a staircase labeled 3 on each floor.

The second and third floors have just one room. The final floor I assume will be what I visit tomorrow.

Leaving the entry door that closed behind me, I fumble my way down a dark corridor and into a small antechamber. There's an unlit torch here. Once I light it, the small room fills with light. The flame magically cascades down the hallways and lights other torches in place.

I find myself in a room with a large offering table situated on a platform. The top of the table looks to be full of dirt. It appears worshipers of Yarus once came here to pay their respects, though it's unclear what they offered to Yarus here. D20+INT+Student.

For most of the crew, the only thing they knew about Yarus was what the centaurs told them. For Syntax, Mori'an, Wolfrik, and Zilmora, they all knew that Yarus empowered potential and energy into the ground. Worshipers used to leave dirt as a symbol of the womb and place of birth...anything placed in the dirt is sacred.

Each time I go further up into the temple, I enter this stairwell. It's filled with green gas. I fight to get through it and not breathe it in. D20+CON+Danger Sense.

Professor, Lyric, Faris, Zilmora, and Astrid make it through without damage.

Sir Gareth and Syntax suffered 1 damage.

Tsavani, Mori'an, and Wolfrik all suffered 2 damage.

This floor of the temple holds a shrine dedicated to Yarus. It's a large wooden statue that's becoming one with, or emerging from, a tree. It's difficult to tell. It's placed in the center of a circle of dirt. I can choose to pay respects. D20+WIS+Arcane Adept.

I had them all pay their respects...and most got something out of it. the stairwell gas no longer affects Sir Gareth, Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Wolfrik, or Zilmora.

Mori'an, Lyric, and Astrid all suffered 1 HP of damage, though, moving through the stairwell up to the next floor.

This level contains a large garden of unusual plants and beautiful flowers. One of the flowers appears to be made of solid gold. As I lean in for a closer look, one of the plants attacks me.

Literally everyone kills the flower...which I believe is a first for me in battle.

Mori'an gained 1HP from killing it. Everyone snags the gold flower, worth 10g.

On their way out and up the staircase, Astrid suffers 1HP of damage and Lyric suffers 2.

HPs below 50%, Mori'an (6HP), Lyric (5HP), and Astrid (6HP) all popped a potion to recover 5-6HP.

Monday, June 20

I step out onto a stone ledge overlooking the growth of the forest. Nothing but trees in sight. A booming voice speaks a riddle that is carried across the peaceful quiet of the land.

A home in darkness where I can be found
Lying in wait without a sound
When a drink doth quench my thirst
Into the light I shall burst

What am I?

I am to guess the answer to the riddle.

Then I can either:
Sprint to the gate. D20+DEX+Athlete.
Sneak to the gate. D20+DEX+Stealthy.
or prepare for battle.

I actually failed this one.



Lyric, Faris, Wolfrik, and Zilmora all chose to sprint to the gate quickly. Wolfrik and Zilmora tripped along the way. Lyric and Faris gain +2 to defense for tomorrow.

Choosing to sneak past were Tsavani and Astrid. Both get there quickly and quietly. +2 defense for both.

Choosing to stroll up with weapons drawn were Sir Gareth, Professor, Syntax, and Mori'an. It only works for Sir Gareth, who gains +2 defense.

We'll be paused for another few days while I take the family to Chicago for the weekend.

Tuesday, June 21

I approach the gate and hear a cracking and snapping of wood. I look around and see one of the trees is alive and reaching out to stop me from entering the gate.

4 rounds of combat.

Sweeping through the combat was The Professor, Tsavani, and Zilmora. No damage taken. 8g as a reward. Sir Gareth did as well, but he took two spell points to boost attack and damage to make it happen.

Lyric, Faris, Wolfrik, and Astrid all took 1 point of damage but ultimately defeated the Guardian tree. 6g for their efforts. Wolf used both of his prayers for favor in this battle.

The key word is defeated...not killed. This cost Mori'an 2 points of damage instead, since he couldn't use Leach Life to restore 1HP.

Lastly, Syntax. I have so much fun with it in combat. Kind of get the depressed robot vibe from Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. I don't spend gold to boost his attack or damage now. I just maintain a 50% ratio of HP to max HP. As a result, it didn't defeat the Guardian...it just eventually got around it and dashed to the forest gate. It lost 1g overall in the process.

Faris, with her point of damage, takes a potion and gets the minimum benefit of 2HP.

Wednesday, June 22

I travel through the portal to find myself landing with a splash into a body of water. I struggle to grab a hold of my equipment before it sinks (and my horse...I don't think the horse/mule part was thought through here). I quickly search for land and find it. It's a small island up ahead.

1) Grab my equipment before it sinks. D20+DEX. This doesn't sound promising.

2) Swim to the island in the distance. D20+CON+Athlete

Fortunately, the option here is to lose gold or equipment. Those losing on the first roll will all choose to lose gold.

That would be Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Mori'an, Lyric, and Astrid. Syntax missed this by 1. That didn't compute well and it spent the 1g to save 9g.

A few turned out to be excellent swimmers after gathering their gear. Sir Gareth, Professor, Zilmora, and Astrid all are doing well, but the island doesn't appear any closer. They're getting tired and started to question if they're going to make it.

Struggling behind them is Tsavani, Mori'an, and Lyric. They each lost 2HP while trying to reach the island. They haven't made it either and also are feeling the strain. Lyric took a HP potion as a result and gained 7HP back.

Far behind and starting to drown are Syntax, Faris, and Wolfrik. Each lost 4HP. Syntax spent the gold, of course. Faris and Wolfrik spent potions to gain back 6HP and 3HP, respectively.

After looking at the picture on the calendar, I can see why this is probably a struggle bus. I think this island is really a huge turtle with a flipping city on it's shell.

Thursday, June 23

As I am nearly ready to give up hope of reaching land, a boat paddles up to me to help me out of the water. The man seems friendly enough and reaches out his hand without question.

I can either take his hand and get on the boat
or
Rob the man and push him overboard. D20+STR.

I'm going to struggle with this...Syntax, Mori'an, and Astrid will likely try to rob this guy, though...since they have negative virtue.

For those not on the evil path:

The man helps you and your belongings into the boat. He ties a rope around the horse to help guide it as well.

"Well, that was quite the sight to see, watching you appear out of nowhere. Sorry it took so long to get here. I thought you was one of those demons that fell out of the sky a while back. You scared me for a second thinking more of them had come back again."

Lyric, being the only non bad virtue person with an ability to pickpocket, gains 2g.

For my baddies, they lose a virtue point. The man helps them in, ties up the horse alongside the boat, and then gets knocked into the water for his trouble. He gets a swing in on Syntax, who spends 1g to recover the lost HP.

The man will likely drown, but they have his boat which they can sell for 10g at the island.

Friday, June 24

Va 'Tortu

The island you were headed to was actually a giant turtle (I knew it!). I step off the boat and climb up to the city on the turtle. I glance around and see nothing but a vast ocean on this world. I begin to explore. It feels a little uneasy at first as I sense all the movement...the heaving, swaying motion of the turtle and it's strokes in the water.

I'm to visit places in the turtle city and converse with it's people.

Martha's Medical Supplies

A lady named Martha runs a clothing shop and medical supply adjacent to each other. The small island sees many people doing double duty to keep it running. The prices seem quite steep.

In keeping with everyone has at least 2 potions, except Syntax, the following HP potions were bought at 7g:
Mori'an 1
Lyric 2
Faris 1
Wolfrik 1

Of intrigue here was a Greater HP potion for 12g. 2D8 restored. I like that idea, but not right now. The others dealt with restoring from death, which I'm not worried about right now either.

Turtleback Tavern

The best algea ales and fluffy beds at sea. They'll all pay the 5g for the rest.

Meal rations are also available. I think I'm going to risk it here and not buy any. Not having a ration cost 1HP per ration needed. These rations cost 4g. That's 1HP to 4g and I think I can manage without it at that point.

Church of the Turtle

There's no one in worship at the moment but there is a church on the island. The people here worship the turtle they live on. The turtle brings life and safety. The turtle's evil nemesis appears to be a demon of the seas and weather.

The School Hall

There's a small single room schoolhouse on the island. From the window you can see an instructor pointing out the anatomy of a turtle. Another diagram shows different aggressive sea creatures one might encounter in the water. Outside, children are playing at recess...sliding down a steep slop on the shell of the turtle.

Everyone manages to sell their gold flower for 10g...the baddies sell the boat for an additional 10g.

June 25/26, The Weekend

It's Job Board Day. I find a job board. Even the people living on this island need a helping hand. I'll take some jobs to earn some coin.

Turtle Cleaning Needed

D20+CON+Animal Tamer

I meet a chummy little gnome on the port flipper of the turtle. "We take good care of our home here. The Great Turtle gives to us and blesses us, so we show our appreciation to her by cleaning her up," he says. He hands me a scraper and tells me to get to work cleaning the algae and barnacles that have accumulated on the turtle.

Sir Gareth, Syntax, Wolfrik, Zilmora, and Astrid all spend a lot of time on the turtle, cleaning her flipper. Her movements are powerful, and they got a little too rough on the cleaning. She knocks them off a few times. Getting back on adds to the effort. They're paid 4g.

The Professor, Tsavani, Mori'an, Lyric, and Faris spend a joyful time outside in the beautiful weather cleaning the turtle. There's something symbiotic and beautiful about the situation as you scrub her and enjoy the ride. They're paid 6g.

Lookout Shift Open

D20+WIS

At night, not only do the ice weasels come (Ok, it didn't say that), I climb to the head of the turtle. A grumpy Draakon gives me a spyglass. "I need a break. The job is simple, even for you. Keep an eye out on where the turtle goes. If there are signs of ships or beasts in the water, just ring the bell. Got it?"

Syntax and Faris did not get it. They don't spot anything worth ringing the bell for. They get bored and end up dozing off a bit. The Draakon yells at them to wake up. He gives them 3g and tells them not to come back.

The rest are diligent about the work but don't spot anything. They're paid 6g.

Strong Swimmer Needed

D20+CON+Athlete

A shopkeeper named Tilly asks for help in retrieving some goods that have fallen off the turtle. "The last storm took some goods from the store and they got caught up and stuck in the turtle shell. Can you get them for me?"

The swim is difficult for all of them but they managed to retrieve the items for him. Everyone takes damage from it...some less than others.

Taking 3 damage:
Mori'an
Lyric
Wolfrik
Zilmora
Astrid

Taking 1 damage:
Sir Gareth
The Professor
Tsavani
Syntax
Faris


The reward comes tomorrow.

Monday, June 27

The shop owner, Tilly, is unable to pay me for answering the job board. However, he offers me a magical item instead.

Choose from Water Ring, Cloak of Currents, or Helm of the Deep.

Water Ring: 1 CHA, 1 HP
Cloak of Currents: 1 CHA, 1 DEF
Helm of the Deep: 1 CHA, 1 DEF

A couple of decisions were made for me. Zilmora and The Professor had 2 like items already and both took the cloak. Mori'an also took the cloak.

Taking the ring were Syntax, Faris, and Astrid.

Taking the helm were Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Lyric, and Wolfrik.

Taking some gold off of Tilly were our pickpockets. Astrid got 1, Syntax 2, Mori'an 3, and Lyric got 4 and lost a virtue point.

Tuesday June 28

To travel further distances in and under the water in this world, I will need a proper mount for the environment. There is a stable at the tail end of the turtle that can help me. They also have some interesting magical means to accommodate travelers that already have a mount to help them underwater.

A kind and quirky gnome greets you, "Nice to meet you. You say you need a companion that can carry you on land and water? That sounds a bit odd around here. It isn't every day we get a traveler from another world, though. I believe I can help you, though. We have some Seaquines that can do the job. If you want to trade that horse of yours, we can strike a deal. If you'd rather keep that horse, I know a spell that can help transform it so it can be ready for land or sea. The best part? It's safe and won't hurt your friend."

There's no difference between the Seaquine and the upgraded horse. They all trade their horse in for the Seaquine and give the gnome 10g as part of the trade.

Wednesday, June 29

Two followers for hire. I may have to think on this one.

Tracker: 20 to hire, 10 for any upkeep...and I just suddenly realized I didn't pay the upkeep this last rest. I'll take care of that now as well.

Tracker provides +2 survivalist while traveling. Meh.
Lucky: Astrid's ability to be Lucky can no go to everyone.

Raiders: 20/10.
Stealthy +2 to sneak and remain hidden.
Danger Sense +2 to avoid traps and surprise hazards.

The first concern is that they're twice the cost of the last ones. I'll dig to see who has what. I may go ahead and hire one or the other for everyone...depending on what skills they already have.

Gold adjusted, the following hired the tracker:
The Professor
Tsavani
Syntax
Mori'an

The following hired the raiders:
Sir Gareth
Lyric
Wolfrik
Zilmora
Astrid

Thursday, June 30

To the Shipwreck

The Sensor indicates the gate shard is south of my current position. With my seaquine, I leap off the turtle and dive underwater. A beautiful and unique world of oceanic mountains, canyons, and richly colorful reefs await me.

A) Travel the Eastern Route.
B) Travel the Western Route.

D20+WIS+Survivalist+Seaquines

The eastern route takes you past the mountains. The western route past the reef.

I will say first 5 east, next 5 west.

The eastern route:
Though the mountains are underwater, I feel more than comfortable traveling near these familiar terrain elements. Being able to travel near them while underwater feels like flying in the air.

This turns out to be the harder of the two routes, but everyone passes it easily. They stay close to the ground of the underwater mountains and ride the currents quickly and easily. None of the group (Sir Gareth, Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Mori'an) have rations, so they lose 1 HP.

Western route:

The other 5 (Lyric, Faris, Wolfrik, Zilmora, Astrid) go west to the bright colors of the Kala Reef. The opportunity to see such vivid colors in this spectacular world is too good to pass up. They pass close to the reef and enjoy the colors and textures they've never seen before. Unfortunately, the reef can be home to some deadly creatures as well.

Only one, Lyric, gets close enough to accidentally get hit by the reef. He loses 2 HP.

The rest have no problem keeping a safe distance while enjoying the scenery and make great time. No rations for Wolfrik or Astrid so they lose 1HP. Faris and Zilmora consume the last of their rations.

It's been a minute. I had a crazy 4th, followed by a crazy 10 days or so in the middle of nowhere, Ohio. Let's get back to it.

Friday, July 1

A shadow looms over me. It blocks out the light and causes the water to grow cold. I look up and see a monstrous beast of a crab headed in my direction. There will be no fighting this thing.

I will attempt to

1. Handle the fear of this giant crab. D20+WIS
then
2. Decipher what I know of crabs that could help. D20+INT+Student.
then
3. Use speed as the key to getting away from the beast. D20+DEX+Athlete
or Use stealth as the key to hiding from the beast. D20+DEX+Stealthy.

Nearly everyone fought the fear off. Clearing their head, they did what they needed to do to survive. Exceptions: Syntax and Wolfrik. They suffer -2 to each roll today. The fear took hold of them, unfortunately.

For Tsavani, Lyric, and Faris, the only things they knew about crabs were they tasted great with butter. This was no help at all.

Sir Gareth and Zilmora recalled crabs were slow so they decided to run for it and got a +1 bonus.

The Professor, Syntax, Mori'an, Wolfrik, and Astrid recalled that crabs have great eyesight and some were very fast and decided to hide. They gained +3 bonus to hiding.

Since five were already hiding, those with butter on their mind joined the sprinters.

Sprinting worked out well for Sir Gareth, Faris and Zilmora. They all escaped unharmed...but Tsavani and Lyric both got pinched and lost 3HP.

Hiding worked out for The Professor, Mori'an, and Astrid. Syntax and Wolfrik managed to stay hidden, but the crab still damages them as it passes by. They lose 2HP.

The Weekend, July 2-3

I arrive at the site of the shipwreck. My energy transference sensor tells me a piece of the Terralon Gate is near. The water is still. It's eerily calm right now and something doesn't feel right.

I am to
A) Remain calm and move slowly D20+DEX+Stealthy
or
B) Set a trap for whatever might be waiting for me. D20+WIS+Survival
or
C) Make a scene to scare whatever might be near. D20+STR+Intimidating


Today, we'll just play it to each individual's strength. This might mean one is used far less or not at all.

Attempting to move forward slowly were Tsavani, Lyric, and Astrid. Tsavani and Lyric struggled through the water, and it's not clear if they were doing a good job. Well it is now, I suppose. No bonus tomorrow. Astrid killed it, though, and gains +2 DMG tomorrow.

Those setting a trap were The Professor, Syntax, Faris, and Zilmora. All were successful with rations as bait and a little blood on top. Whatever's out there is sure to be confused. They all gain +2 Defense tomorrow.

Sir Gareth, Mori'an, and Wolfrik decided to stir things up. They make lots of noise and stir up sediment on the ocean floor. Sand and debris kick up everywhere. Anything nearby might suspect our friends are bigger than what they are. They gain +2 to attack tomorrow.

Monday, July 4

Three Trilons, fish-like people, swim up to attack. They were hoping to take whatever treasure this ship holds for themselves. They won't let me interfere. They're better swimmers than I am and their skin secretes some sort of neurotoxin.

3, one round battles ahead.

Killing all 3 Trilons were:
Sir Gareth (using 2SP)
Tsavani (using 1 Chi)
Faris
Zilmora (using a fireball somehow underwater)

They each gained 3g.


Killing 2 Trilons were:
The Professor (-1HP)
Mori'an (+1HP, what a guy)
Wolfrik (-2HP)

They each gained 2g.


Killing 1 Trilon were:
Syntax (-2HP)
Astrid (-2HP)

They each gained 1g

Lyric failed to kill any of them and lost 2HP in the process.

The Trilons that didn't die swam away in fear.

Tuesday, July 5

The ship has no growth on it. The wood appears freshly splintered and barely damaged by the water. Perhaps the heavy stone gate shard put a hole through the ship's hull.

I'm to navigate the wreckage. There are three decks. Rooms 1-4 on the first. 5-7 on the second. We finish traveling to the 3rd floor.

Room 1 is the crow's nest. It broke and fell onto the ship. The person on lookout likely got out before the ship sunk. They find a working eyeglass that can be sold for 3g.

Room 2 is the forecastle deck. It still holds a table and some playing cards scattered about. It appears some of the sailors were in the middle of a game when the ship was hit. They find 3g lying around.

Room 3 is the poop deck. It holds crates and smashed up boxes. They attempt to look through them. Everyone found a meal ration. The Professor, Syntax, Mori'an, Lyric, and Wolfrik also found aged wine.

Room 4 is the main deck. They find a body wrapped up in the ratlines. There's 2g on this pour soul. There's also an obvious hole here down to the second deck. Most made it through unscathed, but The Professor (-1HP), Mori'an (-2), and Wolfrik (-2) did not.

Room 5 is the forecastle holding the crew quarters. A few dead bodies here. Sir Gareth, Lyric, Faris, and Zilmora manage to find 5g here.

Room 6 is the sterncastle and where the captain's quarters are. He doesn't appear to have gone down with the ship. We find a lockbox in his desk. Syntax, Faris, Zilmora, and Astrid all managed to pick the lock. They find 10g and a rusty key.

Room 7 is the gunroom full of cannons clustered together from when the ship sank. There are a few barrels of expensive gunpowder. Unfortunately, opening a barrel causes the powder to go everywhere. They all lose 1 (Sir Gareth, Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Mori'an) or 2 (Lyric, Faris, Wolfrik, Zilmora, Astrid) HP in the process.

Lyric is down to 50% health and pops a potion. Regains 5HP.

Wednesday, July 6

I swim my way down through the cracks where the gate shard fell into the cargo hold. I rummage around while I try and find the gate shard. I sense movement in the back corner of the wreckage. Bright red eyes light up and fly at me. A demon attacks.

3 rounds, with wisdom for an attempt to banish.

This was an impressive display of banishes by the troops. All of them banished the demon at some point except Lyric, who lost 3HP. Lyric was also the only one to battle the demon the entire way...and the demon got a way.

Everyone else gained 3g and +1 to a dice roll in a future moment.

There was some variance to the damage taken for the others though.

Losing 1HP:
Sir Gareth
Professor
Faris
Wolfrik (used a potion to regain 4HP after)
Zilmora
Astrid

Losing 2HP:
Mori'an

Losing 3HP:
Tsavani
Lyric (mentioned previously)

Thursday, July 7

After dealing with the demon, I find the gate shard and need to collect it. I also find a locked chest sitting in the rubble. It's heavy and sure to contain something great. I need to get it open.

1. Take the gate shard. D20+WIS+Danger Sense.
Then
2. Use the rusty key, if owned.
or Pick the lock D20+DEX+Locksmith
or Smash the lock DMG

All but Faris and Wolfrik remember that sense of dread that fills their head as they approach the shard. They don't let it distract them

Faris ends up getting cursed and immediately uses her holy water.


Using their rusty key was Syntax, Faris, Zilmora, and Astrid.

Picking the lock came easy for Sir Gareth, The Professor, Tsavani, and Lyric.

Bashing it open finally were Mori'an and Wolfrik. Mori'an lost 1HP in the process. Wolfrik lost 2.

Inside was 10g, 1 health potion and 1 greater health potion.

Friday, July 8

To Wai Loko

The transference energy sensor is pointing me across the ocean. According to my maps and discoveries back at the Lost Library, the gate is likely in the underwater city of Wai Loko.

Travel the northern route or the southern route. D20+WIS+Survivalist+Mount

It looks like the northern route takes you past the Kala Reef and the southern route takes you through or over Claw Canyon.

The northern route has them avoiding the dark and potentially dangerous canyon. It will take longer going this route and will take them near the Kala Reef. Even in the dark waters of this world, they can still see the magnificent colors from here.

Going north were Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Mori'an, Faris, and Zilmora.

Sir Gareth and Tsavani got too close to the reef and got hung up...the journey taking longer for that reason. They use the 1 ration they had and lose 2 HP.

The others stay a safe distance from reef while still observing the beautiful reef structure and vibrant colors. They lose their ration.


The southern route is the more direct route to the Terralon Gate but has them crossing the dark waters over Claw Canyon. It's clear why it's called a canyon, the water is so dark and deep you can't see what lurks below.

Only Astrid finds any difficulty here. She got a little too deep when crossing the canyon and the water got frigid. She lost 1HP and her ration. The others safely navigated the canyon, staying well above the darker deep water and only lost their ration.

The Weekend, July 9/10

I float near an outcropping of underwater rocks and I get surprised by the slithering presence of a giant eel. It's large coiling body and sharp fangs could be deadly.

3 rounds of combat with a dexterity roll.

The dexterity roll played a big part of this battle. Lose the roll and the eel has restrained you and you lose the ability to attack that round.

Only Zilmora, with the benefit of two spells, is able to win all three rounds and gains 3g.

Mori'an and Wolfrik failed to kill the eel and it got away.

Results for the crew:

Sir Gareth 2g, -1HP
The Professor 2g, -1HP
Tsavani 2g, -1HP
Syntax 1g, -3HP
Mori'an, -3HP
Lyric 2g, -2HP
Faris 1g, -2HP
Wolfrik 1g, -2HP
Zilmora, 3g
Astrid, 1g, -3HP

Lyric and Astrid hit the 50% threshold on HP and take potions. Lyric regained 4HP, Astrid got 5HP.

This was a bloodier than expected battle.

Monday July 11

I approach the large underwater city of Wai Loko where the Terralon Gate must be. It appears abandoned and lifeless except for the marine creatures that are swimming nearby.

What do I recall about the city? D20+INT+Student

I can then either
Find a local and ask for directions D20+CHA+Persuasive
or
Stay in the shadows and sneak inside D20+DEX+Stealthy

Lyric didn't recall anything useful. Just that it's an underwater city.

Sir Gareth, Syntax, Faris, and Astrid recalled that the city is home a variety of species, some of which are hostile.

The Professor, Tsavani, Mori'an, Wolfrik, and Zilmora recalled the city has strict laws banning terrestrial and avian creatures. Any citizen is allowed to kill one on site.


So this changed what I was going to do overall for finding a local or staying in the shadows. The last five clearly know finding a local is a bad idea so they all try to lurk.

Sir Gareth and Lyric were the only ones, not knowing any better, to swim up to the first person they found, an elderly female Triton. She appears to be headed somewhere with her children. She's terrified of their presence and shields her children from you. Lyric was able to relax her but she's cautious in his presence. She points to a building in the center of the city and warns him that his presence will draw guards intent to kill him.

Sir Gareth didn't get that shot. She immediately screams and calls the attention of nearby Triton guards. Sir Gareth fought them off and they left for reinforcements. He lost 1HP in the process.


The Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, and Faris and secretly and silently made their way to the center of the city where the sensor indicates the Terralon Gate should be.

Mori'an, Wolfrik, Zilmora, and Astrid were all caught sneaking through the city. Mori'an and Zilmora fought them off, losing 1HP. Wolfrik and Astrid were able to kill the guards without taking damage.

Tuesday, July 12

Underwater Vault

I enter a building in the center of the underwater city and find myself in a vault. Though it might not be heavily guarded, I know I'm unwelcome here and need to remain hidden.

There are three outlying rooms. It looks like a baseball diamond, with the mound being the final destination. #1 appears to have sharks. #3 is a maze of some sort. I have to go to one or the other. It's unclear what is in #2, but I can only get there by going into 1 or 3 first.

I feel we're pretty healthy, despite popping some potions earlier. The plan is to get all of them through all 3 rooms. If for whatever reason I need to deviate I have the option of entering the final area at any room. The final area/room is in the center and connects to all three rooms.

Room 1 contains vicious sharks swimming in a circle, patrolling to guard and make sure no one gets to the key in the center of the room. D20+CHA+Animal Tamer.

Tsavani, Syntax, Wolfrik, and Zilmora befriend the sharks and the sharks allow them to pass to the key easily.
Everyone else is attacked and loses 1HP. Professor lost 2.

I fell off the wagon for a bit with the amount of work travel. Note taking all of the characters really wore me down as well.

I did catch back up and I'm current today. I'm pleased to say that all 10 of the adventurers are still with me. At one point I forgot to stock up on health potions...Mori'an and Zilmora nearly died for that...but they made it through.

Next year's game is space themed, and I think I'll just hold on to one or two characters for that.