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23:56, 3rd May 2024 (GMT+0)

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley.

Posted by Wastelands NarratorFor group 0
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 6 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Wed 3 Jul 2019
at 21:04
  • msg #1

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

After taking the newly acquired Armored Van back to the Hope Settlement, the party now has the chance to buy and sell items with the merchant Naïstacia.

While this is going on Alex (the reformed bandit) approaches the group and informs them that an individual who has introduced himself as Gwydion has approached the front gate of the settlement and wishes to speak with those in charge. From Alex's description of Gwydion, the party knows he is a human male named wearing a haversack, a hooded long-rider coat, what Katy quickly recognizes as Technomagic gloves, and a staff.

After the party finishes with the current endeavors (dealing with the merchant, and the traveler at the gates) it will need to decide if or when to head to Scrap Valley to check out what has prevented the Gnomes from contacting the Halflings.

OOC: Collected items that the party can sell and the inventory Naïstacia offers are listed in the Wasteland Campaign House Rules, Edits, and Group Notes thread and also in notes in the Roll20 game room. Can handle the shopping stuff in OOC sections of posts while posting what your characters do in regards to being informed of Gwydion and any interactions with the man.
Katy
player, 17 posts
Wed 3 Jul 2019
at 21:57
  • msg #2

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy goes to see Gwydion herself and asks, "Hello, Gwydion? What is it you need?"

On one hand, she didn't SAY she's the boss of the group. And with how she looks up to Matt and with how the spaceship is Sam's, she kind of assumes either one or both of those guys are the boss. But that doesn't mean she can't play leader with a stranger visiting for mysterious purposes.

She's a little girl, sure, but she's also a talking anthropomorphic raccoon, indicating her mutant status. In this post-apocolyptic setting, she COULD be the leader of an establishment for all any outside would know.

Miku will follow along with Katy to make sure she will be safe and healthy. ^^
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Wed 03 July 2019.
Pyrus
Fri 5 Jul 2019
at 04:28
  • msg #3

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

"Considering the rare politeness of announcing himself, I'm optimistic that this guy isn't here to threaten us."

Pyrus joins in going to the entrance to welcome Gwydion.

"Welcome to Hope, Gwydion.  I am Pyrus."
Mike D99
player, 16 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Sun 7 Jul 2019
at 03:19
  • msg #4

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  Queen of the wasteland Katy is a wonderful idea, clearly because of logic and not because Mike is biased.

  "People I meet for the first time are usually only polite to me when they need something.  But if we're lucky, it's something that would be on our to do list anyways."  Though it would be convenient of it also involved scrap valley to save them a trip.
Matthew Felix
player, 1 post
Cyber Ninja (Rogue)
Level 2
Mon 8 Jul 2019
at 01:58
  • msg #5

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Matthew follows along with several others towards the gate and after Mike speaks up, Matthew says, “Hello, I'm Matthew.”

Matthew is curious to know what has brought Gwydion to this settlement but is willing to give the man a chance to volunteer the information before asking the stranger.
Samuel Stevenson
Wastelands, 1 post
Mechanic Lvl 2
Mon 8 Jul 2019
at 02:01
  • msg #6

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Samuel doesn't head towards the gate.
Instead, he stays near Mr. and Mrs. Naïstacia as he discusses what sort of materials, supplies, and equipment they might be able to acquire. Samuel does this without directly saying what he'd need it for since he is looking to buy items that will expedite the repairs of the shuttle. Samuel also sorts through the items the group has acquired to find what they can sell to the merchants for funds to either buy better gear or other items the group may want.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Tue 09 July 2019.
Sevro
GM, 1 post
Sun 21 Jul 2019
at 02:54
  • msg #7

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Sevro assists Samuel while keeping an eye on the gate with rifle at the ready in case the newcomer tries anything funny.  He turns to Samuel and says, "Hey, need a hand going through this stuff?"

Meanwhile, Sevro sends one of his owl drone overhead as additional observation for what is transpiring at the gate (at a safe altitude).

OOC: This gives Sevro an excuse not to go to the gate but is keeping an eye on what is going on just in case.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:56, Sun 21 July 2019.
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 7 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Tue 23 Jul 2019
at 01:56
  • msg #8

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Gwydion nods to Katy and the others who have approached him and says, "Recently I saw an omen of a shooting star heading towards this area but I figure the small meteorite burned up before hitting the ground as I haven't seen a sign of it. But I did come across a shelter settlement a few days ago and they told me of this new settlement at the old mines so I figured I would check things out."

It is obvious from Gwydion's statement that it's Katy's and Matthew's old shelter that Gwydion came across.
Katy
player, 18 posts
Wed 24 Jul 2019
at 02:36
  • msg #9

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy steps forward and offers her hand as she says, "The Middletown Settlement? I'm from there originally... but you're here for more than just curiosity, right? You said you wanted to speak with the leader. Technically, we don't have one; we kinda have six. But for your purposes, I'll be the leader of Hope Settlement. So tell me what you want."

It is true that the group never fully established a single leader. But Katy likes it that way. She is highly independent due to how her life turned out and doesn't like being bossed around. Despite this, she doesn't like the idea of being in charge of the grownups for longer than a few moments at a time... maybe.
Mike D99
player, 17 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Wed 24 Jul 2019
at 16:59
  • msg #10

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  Yes, multi pronged vague leadership is important for keeping ideas like 'The murderous plants that went out of control and overran that place will totally be safe and practical if we use them!' from getting out of hand.  While also leaving most of the boring but important bookkeeping to those who love it.

  "Katy has done wonders for weeding out people not actually serious about their visit." Okay probably not YET.  But Mike gets the feeling 'How dare you make me speak to a mere child!' reactions are going to cut out a lot of useless visitors from the waiting list.

  He also expects the "omen" to just be a fancy way of claiming 'Going that way seemed like a good idea at the time'.  But that's a course his own life has followed often enough, if with less melodrama about it.

OOC; Days Later Looting Edit:

Unclaimed but accessible loot pile.

  *I don't own studded leather. So I'll take a freebie as a backup for Out Of Frame.
  *Iodine pills; handfull of em.  While I can drink radioactive water, it's nice to be able to secure/provide clean water for others.
  *Batteries. Handfull of em.
  *Medispray. Two unclaimed? Grab 1 just in case, unless other party members go "Oh, actually I want/need that".
  *Mike already owns a Geiger counter. But won't let people sell our spare.
  *1 lead lined copper mesh pouch I will promptly forget I have.
  *It's a given the party will be hanging onto the emergency shelter, laser forge, and hazmat suit.  But if not, Mike will "Call dibs" then throw em back on the community pile.

For Sale.

Mike can't justify the cost of a 1,000 Vanilla Laser rifle. While the """Cheaper""" combat pistol is a trap at this point that would either sit unused for having a worse single fire than my Sling, or end up costing me more than buying laser weapons at 5/10 gold per "Only reason I'd even equip it" trigger pull.

But by now the party probably had more than enough time to work on further custom weapons.  While lacking in special property options at prof +2, a DiY Slow Fire (to make up for the reduced damage step) Laser Rifle would be dirt cheap, even considering initial ammo pack costs.

So getting started on DiY Slow Fire Laser Rifle would be Mike's only resource expenditure so far.  Might as well put my class features to some use.

This message was last edited by the player at 08:14, Thu 25 July 2019.
Matthew Felix
player, 2 posts
Cyber Ninja (Rogue)
Level 2
Wed 24 Jul 2019
at 23:38
  • msg #11

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Matthew glances at Gwydion warily and knows that the Middletown settlement would be wary of strangers given that there is the chance that a stranger is working with of for the former leaders of the settlement that were driven out to stop the experiments and cruelty being inflicted upon the inhabitants of Middletown.

Matthew speaks up as he asks the question on his mind, “I'm also from Middletown, so I am familiar with those living there. I'm guessing you performed some service or task for Middletown before they told you about the Hope settlement. May I ask what was it?”
Samuel Stevenson
Player, 2 posts
Mechanic Lvl 2
Thu 25 Jul 2019
at 00:10
  • msg #12

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Samuel figures if his help is needed to deal with the stranger at the gate then Sevro will let him know. After viewing the current inventory that the Naïstacia merchants have, he figures that the party could use, in no particular order, the Hand Tazer, the Taser Rifle, the Laser Beam Rifle, the Molecular Whip, the two Combat Pistols, the two Wasteland Emergency Shelters, some more grenades and several other minor items like pullets or the Night Vision Goggles and the Sharp Eye Goggles... however Samuel knows that even with trading all the spare stuff they have that the group doesn't need they can only scrounge up a total 2,812 gold pieces and 9 silver pieces of trading value for the party, which is far less than everything the group could use so items should be prioritized... For necessities, Samuel thinks that getting the two Wasteland Emergency Shelters mean that everyone in the group could hide out in them when having to camp outside of the settlement. Samuel figures that this will have to be a group decision on what to get but he has an idea on what he'd prefer if it was just up to him but he knows it isn't.

Samuel turns to Sevro and replies, “Sure that would speed things up.” before Samuel mutters to himself about how the Taser Rifle would be better against Robots and can knock people out at a distance with its lightning/electric damage, but the Laser Beam Rifle has a significantly longer range and tends to be better against the undead with its radiant damage.

OOC: OOC If anyone sees anything in the 'Naïstacia's Current Merchant Inventory' post in the 'Wasteland Campaign House Rules, Edits, and Group Notes' thread please include them as an OOC comment or let me know outside of the game so I can get an idea of what the party is interested in and we can hash out what the party trades for.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:40, Thu 25 July 2019.
Pyrus
Thu 25 Jul 2019
at 03:41
  • msg #13

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Pyrus skews his lips at the idea of Katy claiming to be the spokesperson for the group.  He'd think Miku would be a much better pick for diplomacy.  But Mike does make an interesting point.  Putting your most prickly member forward could make for a wonderful test for whether any newcomers can can handle sticking around for more than a few moments, filtering out the easily offended or overly prideful.

"Haven't really told us a thing about yourself.  Where you're from.  What interest you have in meteors.  Whether you represent a community or are a loner.  What you or your people are looking to buy or sell.  Those would be good starters in most places.  In some cultures, they won't even give you the time of day if you didn't show up with at least a token gift and a lengthy exposition of your history."

(( OOC: Do we have a way to test for those brain slugs or whatever parasite thing i vaguely recall being mentioned as a REALLY bad thing to allow to infest your town?  If so, Pyrus asks that this guy be scanned for stuff like that. ))
Sevro
GM, 2 posts
Thu 1 Aug 2019
at 02:31
  • msg #14

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

((OOC: Can you do a roll for me to see if I pass whatever check is necessary to spot something in the inventory that would benefit the repairs on the ship or will benefit the settlement (i.e. for the Radio Tower)?))

Sevro stands next to Samuel to scan the inventory of items, also noting the rifles but locks his attention onto the C-4 explosives. While keeping his eyes on the wares, he says "Hey Samuel, looks like a lot of stuff but might have to dig through this all in more depth later.  Not exactly sure what is going on up-front yet, but it looks like Katy has taken point so just be ready.  Ready for action or snacks, I am not sure."

After stating what may be the obvious, Sevro drifts his thoughts to the fun... uhhh... uses the group may have for the C-4 explosives.
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 8 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Wed 7 Aug 2019
at 00:46
  • msg #15

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Sevro manages to get somewhat lucky in that he finds spools of copper wire along with other components which will cost a total of 400gp which the party can easily afford. With those items combined with the LaserForge and the materials the settlement has gained from the mines will enable Sevro and Samuel to repair and patch some parts of the shuttles hull and infrastructure in addition to linking the shuttle's damaged short ranged radio to the settlement's radio tower which will boost the range of the radio tower from 15 miles to 20 miles.

Meanwhile back near the gate, Gwydion nods to Katy and asks, "Since you've set up a settlement at the old mine's entrance, I'm guessing the mine is still operational and mining has resumed or will resume in the near future? Among other things, I do have experience with mines so could help with the operation of the mine in exchange for being able to live here since wandering around is not exactly safe especially with several hostile factions trying to expand the area they control."

Gwydion then turns to Matthew and nods in reply, "Yes I helped repair several items with my abilities, I have some spellcasting capabilities and I do know the mending cantrip. SO I was liberally using it to repair damage to various items."

Gwydion then replies to Pyrus with, "My interest with meteors is the same as my interest in the mines, geology and using the minerals I find along with my magic to try and find ways to mitigate or remove lingering radiation and pollution. In short, I want to heal the planet. In doing so, plants and animals will heal and society can be restored. The only other major goal I have is the destruction of any undead I find for the restless dead preys on the living and frankly I don't want to be food for a corpse."
Matthew Felix
Player, 3 posts
Cyber Ninja (Rogue)
Level 2
Wed 7 Aug 2019
at 00:57
  • msg #16

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Matthew listens to what Gwydion and speaks up, “Before residence can be considered we'll need to have you tested with a Terrestrial Diagnosticator to make sure you aren't infested with a brain slug or some communicable disease that would need to be cured first. Miku has the device, would you be willing to submit to being tested?”

Gwydion arches an eyebrow at the mention of the rumored brain slugs, but then again Gwydion knows rumors tend to be based on some fact so odds are there is some sort of parasite that causes trouble... after all those in the Bureau often rant about Brain Slugs and other alien threats. "I reasonable request to which I have no objections."
Samuel Stevenson
Player, 3 posts
Mechanic Lvl 2
Wed 7 Aug 2019
at 01:08
  • msg #17

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Samuel goes through the items Sevro discovers in the merchant's stash of items for sale and checks to see if there is anything else the group could use as he pulls a few items that he knows would be useful like the Sharp-Eye goggles and the Bulletproof Vest that he knows Matthew has expressed interest in the past, along with the Hand Taser for Katy.
Katy
player, 19 posts
Thu 8 Aug 2019
at 22:04
  • msg #18

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy was all ready to be stern and tough with this stranger to look cool in front of her friends when Gwydion disarms her with being candid and having ready answers. One of which involved healing the planet. Somewhere inside her, the little influence of Gaia that imbued her with natural fire powers is pleased and it spills over into Katy's own mood.

Then the guy agrees to a test from Miku on top of all that.

Katy gives Gwydion a curious look... that adorable head-tilt that dogs give sometimes. Her eyes quickly go from aggressive to soft. "Alright, Miku. Give him the test."

Miku nodnods and smiles brightly at Gwydion. "Hello, I'm Miku. Pleased to meet you, Gwydion. I'm a doctor and a professional, so please don't worry about a thing!"

Miku pulls out the Terrestrial Diagnosticator and tests Gwydion for any brain slugs. Something she is becoming very accustomed to doing as she would have performed the test on every single member of the Hope Settlement.

If Katy knew what Sevro had said... oh who are we kidding? She's gonna ask for snacks whether she knew or not.

But she is super pleased with how her friends took initiative while still technically letting her handle the guy. At least, that's how she sees it.

All the same, Katy does NOT take her eyes of the new guy yet. Until he is proven to be slugless, that is.

EDIT (GM-approved update):
Miku says, "Well you check out, Mister Gwydion Sir! You're in good health and not infected with any parasites!"

Katy ohs and says, "Come on in and meet the others then."

She indicates for Gwydion to follow her and heads over to Samuel and Sevro. "Hey guys! Got a new recruit. His name's Gwydion. Says he knows magic like mending and is familiar with mining."

Miku says, "In addition, he said, and I quote;" and then in a PERFECT imitation of Gwydion's voice, "My interest with meteors is the same as my interest in the mines, geology and using the minerals I find along with my magic to try and find ways to mitigate or remove lingering radiation and pollution. In short, I want to heal the planet. In doing so, plants and animals will heal and society can be restored. The only other major goal I have is the destruction of any undead I find for the restless dead preys on the living and frankly I don't want to be food for a corpse."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:27, Thu 08 Aug 2019.
Mike D99
player, 18 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Fri 9 Aug 2019
at 02:33
  • msg #19

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  See, this is why Mike always thought everyone already knew Miku was a robot. It's just so obvious right, so why even mention it?

  "Reducing the amount of Mindless zombies does tend to make life more convenient even for the non-living, yeah.  Also, yes Brain Slugs are real.  No, over excitable men in suits screaming about them constantly don't do much to actually deal with them."

  We suppose if any such organization was actually effective, that wouldn't leave things horrible enough for player characters to need to solve for them.
Pyrus
Mon 26 Aug 2019
at 02:05
  • msg #20

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Like Katy, Pyrus is disarmed by Gwydion's candidness, stated intentions, and willingness to submit to an exam.  Though any sane person would be eager to be scanned if they knew the dangers of brain slugs...

"Looks pretty unanimous.  Welcome to the team.  You should probably familiarize yourself with what's been going on so far.  We found undead in the mine, for example."

Pyrus does a double-take upon hearing Miku's perfect imitation of Gwydion's voice.  "Wow.  How'd you do that?  Ghost Sound magic?"

It sure didn't look like she was casting a spell.

OOC:
quote:
We suppose if any such organization was actually effective, that wouldn't leave things horrible enough for player characters to need to solve for them.
  *Barbara swoops in*  "100% effective organizations exist only in fiction.  There's always room for heroes to be heroic."
Sevro
GM, 3 posts
Sun 8 Sep 2019
at 03:01
  • msg #21

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Putting down the items he was sorting through with Samuel, Sevro turns to face Miku and the newcomer.

"Hi, Gwydion... My name is Sevro.  Going off what Miku just shared with us, I cannot help but ask if you have seen any other mines, minerals, meteors or undead nearby."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:02, Sun 08 Sept 2019.
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 9 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Tue 19 Nov 2019
at 17:56
  • msg #22

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

(This occurs during Katy's GM-approved update, just from Gwydion's perspective.)

Gwydion nods and says to Miku, "Go ahead and use the Terrestial Diagnosticator," as he rolls up his sleeve so Miku can access his arm.

It doesn't take Miku long to get the results and finds out that Gwydion is human and is not infested with a brain slug...
(End of Gwydion's perspective for that update.)

Gwydion is rather surprised that Miku is able to mimic his voice so perfectly and asks, "How did you mimic my voice like that? I didn't notice any spellcasting." Next Gwydion hears that he's being welcomed to the team and replies, "Thank you," and upon meeting Samuel and Sevro, Gwydion replies, "Actually  I have seen what could have been a meteor a few years ago towards the east in Scrap Valley, but the Gnomes that live nearby said that while something fell from the sky, but I haven't been able to get near it as a clan of kobolds have taken residence in and around that site. And I only know of one other mine in the area, but that is several miles to the east and the Everhammer clan of dwarves currently live in it. They might be amicable to trade and bartering, but they take it seriously so they view gifts of friendship or poor negotiations as a lack of respect or a sign of foolishness...but they live several miles down the road beyond scrap valley."

Also the supplies Naïstacia has for sale, Sevro finds a large supply of copper wiring and other materials that can be used to patch damage to the hull and infrastructure of the shuttle that collectively would cost 400gp. Such repairs would take 2 days and partially repair the communication system in the shuttle which could with those same supplies be linked up to the radio tower to boost the tower's range to 20 miles.

OOC: Also a reminder that Matthew has converted the Brain slug corpse into Slaarsh Powder using his Chemistry Kit.
Current items the party is purchasing along with slush funds remaining after vendering the 'party loot':
Selling: 8 Light Crossbows, 3 sets of common clothes, Bent Pipe, 2 Auto-slingshots, 6 Rapiers, 32 leather armors, gaxian locator beacon, 9 maces, 3 studded leather uniforms, chain shirt, 2 knifes, Warhammer, Greatsword, longsword, 6 heavy crossbows, 360 crossbow bolts, 15 light crossbows, 22 scimitars, 2 bullet casings, the Tazer, and 5 Beatup Revolvers
Total 849 lbs, and 2,812.9gp bartering value (70% value)
Leaves 281.6lbs on the Gravwagon after offloading radio tower and Isomogrifier
Acquiring:
Katy is getting the Hand Taser (100gp), 2712.9gp left to barter with after trading in her old Studded Leather armor (31.5) since she now has a Breastplate.
The Party will get both Wasteland Emergency Shelters at 86gp each (172gp total so 2,540.9gp left to trade)
Matthew will want a Sharp-eye Goggles at 150gp and a Bulletproof Vest at 250gp (2,140.9gp left)
Mike is keeping a Studded Leather armor as a backup armor (31.5gp so 2,109.4gp left) and the creation of a Thermal Laser Blaster/Cannon? (Slow-firing & Two-Handed will cost 20gp and take 2 days) (Can't remember if you wanted it to be two-handed or not, the two-handed version has longer range and 3d4 fire damage, one-handed version does 2d6 damage both have the same cost and time to craft)
Samuel will want the Nightvision Goggles (250gp) and to craft a Thermal Laser Blaster (Two-handed, Slow-firing with Fire damage type [3d4 Fire damage as Samuel will have his mounted on a sub arm of his mecharmor)] and uses a Laser Cartridge for ammo clip, will cost 20gp and take two days and would sell his needles+gauss rifle for 58.5gp which would pay for the newly crafted weapon and then some!)
1,857.9gp left after Mike and Samuel craft Thermal Laser Blasters and buy a single Laser Cartridge for the ammo supply (only 10/10 with these weapons at the moment)
800gp for the 16 ounces of C4 (50gp/oz) along with 400gp of materials to repair the shuttle would leave 657.9gp (Radio in the shuttle will be partially repaired and linked up to the radio tower which boosts the tower’s range to 20 miles.)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:19, Sun 05 Jan 2020.
Miku Hatsune
Player, 1 post
Entertainer extrodinaire!
Can fix your booboos too.
Thu 21 Nov 2019
at 06:10
  • msg #23

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Miku answers Gwydion and Pyrus, "I'm a talented vocalist! Thank you for comparing my natural ability to magic! I do sound effects too! But mostly, I just do music."

She pulls out her keytar and begins playing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKQxE6hSo_k

Miku asks, "Why would someone be offended by a gift?"
Katy
player, 20 posts
Thu 21 Nov 2019
at 06:15
  • msg #24

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy has a smile on her face and a happy wag to her tail as she stares at the nearest snack like the others predicted. She takes it, but turns to look at Gwydian as he talks about the two potential locations. "Both sound worth checking out. I wonder if the kobolds will also be willing to trade..."

She then looks at Miku. "I guess it depends on the gift; one person's trash is another's treasure after all. But any of you can feel free to give me gifts anytime!"
Matthew Felix
Player, 4 posts
Cyber Ninja (Rogue)
Level 2
Thu 21 Nov 2019
at 16:04
  • msg #25

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Matthew listens to the conversation going on and ponders Miku's question in response to what Gwydion said before he answers, “I think it is more that they don't think highly of strangers bearing gifts ...they might be paranoid of a trojan horse or more likely as a bribe and be offended by that. I doubt they look down on gifts given as part of a celebration but for introductions, they probably think poorly of individuals who feel the need to bribe others simply to get those people deal with them or like them.”
Mike D99
player, 19 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Fri 22 Nov 2019
at 12:59
  • msg #26

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  Mike is pretty sure these dwarves followed an at first reasonable logic of 'The world is to kersploded too have enough to spare to give gifts', then ran itself into the stupidity wall of 'We love business! But we hate gifts... We're always right, therefore nobody ever buys expensive gifts anyway'.

  "If we head out that way, then dwarves first at least would give us a place to work from closer to the Kobolds region.  Something we can use even without trade agreements, unless they hate people staying long enough to shop for more than a few hours tops... Also, what are their views on goods purchased from them, later given as gifts to others?"

OOC: Sounds about right for laser time.  I've forgotten the exact pace of the revised class/crafting options, but I do remember "Start with generic two-handed slow fire laser" with intentions to alter it down the line once my class buffs will give it satisfying damage+range without slow fire.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:00, Fri 22 Nov 2019.
Pyrus
Mon 25 Nov 2019
at 06:05
  • msg #27

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Pyrus is confounded by the bit about being offended by gifts.  And the explanation doesn't much make sense either.  But at least his friends are sensible.

"Love your music, Miku!"

To Katy he chuckles and offers her a small snack.  "Here you go, Katy.  I'm such an offensive person to give this to you, aren't I?"

To the others Pyrus adds, "I agree with Katy.  Taking offense or being suspicious at a gift is not only foolish, but rude.  Here I thought it was universal to graciously accept, reciprocate, then later check the quarantined gift for anything nasty after the visitor has left.  Even a 'bad' gift can be a chance to strengthen good bonds.  For example: My people were given a basket of potatoes by our neighbors as a friendly gesture because they had had a good harvest.  We later found weevils in the basket, advised our neighbors to check their stores for an infestation, and nobody's feelings got hurt."

He sighs, "Oh well.  Their loss if they're going to be like that."
Sevro
GM, 4 posts
Thu 2 Jan 2020
at 03:36
  • msg #28

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Sevro nods in approval of Katy's wisdom of what some may think of as trash being treasure to others and then remembers to go back and look at the supplies that were found to see how they can be used to benefit the settlement (and for repairs on the ship).
Katy
player, 21 posts
Sun 5 Jan 2020
at 22:15
  • msg #29

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Miku smiles at Pyrus. "Thanks!"

If Katy knew a grownup thought her wise, she would be blushing. As it is, she is beaming that Pyrus agrees with her. She noms the snack out of his hand like a pet would, tail swishing happily.

Then looks at the others. "When do we head out, then?"
Samuel Stevenson
Player, 4 posts
Mechanic Lvl 2
Sun 5 Jan 2020
at 22:29
  • msg #30

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Samuel has concluded the trading for supplies and heads over in time to hear Katy's question. The mechanic then looks to Katy and answers, “With the materials Sevro and I are getting to make some repairs for 'facilities' here, setting up the Radio tower, and a few of us crafting some thermal laser weapons, we'll need to stick around in Hope for two days. Besides we'll be able to pick up some supplies from the Vendco Machine on the day we'd be leaving.” To those who know about the concealed shuttle, it is obvious that the 'facilities' Samuel is referring to is the shuttle itself. However, for others, it would be easy to assume the repairs are to parts of the city or equipment in the mine.
Mike D99
player, 20 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Mon 6 Jan 2020
at 00:03
  • msg #31

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  "Given how we've already run into more plant monsters than usual, making sure we have our new energy weapons sorted before we leave is definitely minimum prep time, yeah.  Though making sure your other arrangements are in good a state as currently possible before an extended trip won't hurt either" Look, it's a horrible wasteland.  But a building surrounded entirely by asshole plants does skew the averages.
Pyrus
Thu 9 Jan 2020
at 04:51
  • msg #32

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Pyrus smiles at Miku and nods.  "You're welcome.  And thanks for sharing your music."

Katy is being such an adorable puppy, Pyrus can't help but offer her some pets.

Upon hearing Samuel refer to the "facilities," he quietly wonders how long the space people will be able to keep their secret.  As the community grows, so too will the number of prying eyes.

To Mike he answers, "Those plants don't bother me near as much as the idea of zombies with guns.  I thought zombies were supposed to be mindless.  That they have enough intelligence to find, repair, maintain, load, and accurately shoot firearms has me worried for everyone's future."

Hi!  I'm an idiotic meathead of a thug!  I never bothered learning to read, or even figure out anything more complicated than a club.  BLAM!  A zombie just shot me in the head!  Oh, and now he's handing me a spare gun.  Wowie!  I suddenly have military training!  Being dead rulez!
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 10 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Sun 12 Jan 2020
at 15:19
  • msg #33

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Over the next two days, Joe and Samuel are able to craft the Thermal Laser Blasters (And if Sevro is going to refurbish his fire damage weapon into a Thermal Laser Blaster, or pistol if he wants it to be one-handed that is also doable.) Simultaneously Samuel and Sevro are able to use the supplies they acquire from the merchants to make some repairs on the Shuttle while linking its communications systems up to the newly assembled radio tower.

Before the party sets out, everyone is able to claim one item from the Vend-Co machine since trying to take more would hamper food reserves for the Hope settlement. At the same time, everyone is able to gather 8 days worth of food and water which is stored in the Armored truck which now has a full tank and 40 gallons of spare fuel in a 55-gallon drum, which is enough to completely refill the Armored Truck's fuel tank once. When the party heads out in the truck the Grav Wagon will be hitched to it which occupies only up to 500lbs of the 4000lbs that the Armored Truck can tow.

Gwydion has taken charge in getting the Mine operating with Alex, the former Thug that the party recruited, taking charge of security while several survivors from Matthew and Katy's old Shelter assist both of those two in getting the mine operational as well as keeping the settlement functioning and secure.

OOC: With this, the Radio tower now has a 20-mile transmission range.
The options for the item from the Vend-Co machine are:
Berry Enerclear Bar (Grants 1d10 temporary hit points which last until expended),
Candy Atoms (+1 Dexterity for 1d4 hours and advantage on Dexterity ability checks for 1d4 hours),
Fission Sun Chips (+1 to Strength or Constitution checks, able to lift/carry/drag things as if +1 Strength, and -1 to Wisdom checks for 1 hour)
Nova Fresh Soda (Gain a second bonus action each turn for 1 minutes [10 rounds]),
Mr. Particle Savortart (Heal 5d4 hit points and gain advantage on your next ability check, attack roll, or saving throw),
Snackpal Snack Cake (+1d10 to Charisma Checks for 2d4 Hours, roll a 1d10 for each check made within that timeframe)
Consuming one of these items is an action.

Matthew is going with the Nova Fresh Soda (since he'll be able to use Cunning Action for both Dash and Disengage each round for 10 rounds, or to Dash twice while under its effects. For people who have lots of bonus action options that soda is like a poor man's haste potion...for example when Two weapon fighting could use that extra bonus action as another attack.)
Samuel is going with the Mr. Particle Savortart to have a healing item.

With these repairs, the Shuttle now has recovered 50 hull points of damage (so now up to 350/600). The wiring in the shuttle has been repaired which has improved the Powerplant capacity from 10% to 20% and brought the internal radio systems online which is why the Radio tower now has a 20-mile radius instead of a 15-mile radius). The hermetic seal of the shuttle is still compromised but the shuttle's engine systems have been rewired and have been brought up from 10% power to 25% power which would be enough in an emergency to move the shuttle at a rate of 15ft/round (instead of the normal 60ft/round) but there is not enough lift to get the shuttle more than 10ft off the ground and odds are the shuttle would take more damage when trying to land so moving the shuttle is still not recommended. The shuttle's maneuvering thrusters are now rewired, but only operating at 10% while the weapons systems are still offline as are all sensors other than the radio.

Stats for the Thermal Laser weapons that can or could be crafted with the resources the Hope Settlement now has. Sevro will make this change since recharging a Laser Cartidge is a lot easier and cheaper with two mechanics able to recharge the cartridges for free than the costs to get more alchemical fire to refuel his current fire pistol. He is going with a two-handed blaster similar to Samuel and Joe.
Thermal Laser Blaster (3d4 Fire damage, ammunition range 120/480, Slow-firing, two-handed, weight 4lbs, Reload 10/10 (uses a Laser Cartridge but currently only get 10 shots per cartridge)
Thermal Laser Pistol (2d6 Fire damage, ammunition range 80/320, Slow-firing, Launcher, one-handed, weight 3lbs, Reload 10/10 (uses a Laser Cartridge but currently only get 10 shots per cartridge)
This message was last edited by the player at 07:10, Sat 02 May 2020.
Katy
player, 22 posts
Wed 15 Jan 2020
at 05:09
  • msg #34

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy takes the time to upgrade her weaponry as well, but mostly spends the time doing what a little girl by all rights should be doing; play.

Miku is sure to entertain the group as oft as she can, singing and dancing at the beginning and ending of each day.

On the day it's time to head out, Miku does another morning performance for the group, happily dancing and singing. (Though she specifically chooses The Greatest Adventure)*

* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2dQ5c5SIYnc

Katy is in a good mood and has a bright smile on her face, occasionally trotting in a circle around the group on the way to the armored truck. "I'm so excited to finally give this truck a whirl... can I have a try at driving it at some point?"

There are no laws around anymore for how old someone has to be to drive, after all.


For weapon, Katy AND Miku each got the following:
Auto-Sling Turbo: 3d4+dex Blunt. 80/320 ft, Light and Launcher properties Reload (10/10, sling stones)

From the Vend-Co machine, Katy got:
Berry Enerclear Bar (Grants 1d10 temporary hit points which last until expended)

From the Vend-Co machine, Miku got:
Snackpal Snack Cake (+1d10 to Charisma Checks for 2d4 Hours, roll a 1d10 for each check made within that timeframe)
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Thu 16 Jan 2020.
Mike D99
player, 21 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Wed 15 Jan 2020
at 05:45
  • msg #35

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  "I mean, skeletons never have anyone complain when they use weapons, Pyrus.  And those don't even have PART of a brain left in their bodies." Skeletons are more powerful than zombies and ghosts are more powerful than skeletons.  Except when they aren't.  But in the bottom tiers of undead, the body mass to threat ratio does seem a bit backwards at times.

  Then it is scene transition time.

  "Given we may be lucky enough to not be attacked out of nowhere for at least thirty minutes, the start of the trip does seem to be the best time to let you try Katy."
Pyrus
Wed 15 Jan 2020
at 15:36
  • msg #36

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Pyrus is sure to get whatever needed item related stuff done, play with Katy, enjoy Miku's concerts, and avoid his retainers' fanaticism.

During the trip he rides on the roof listening in on the people inside.  "I'd complain if skeletons started shooting guns at me.  If it were just simple weapons, I could accept simple minds using them.  Firearms is another thing entirely.  What's next?  Undead mecha pilots?"

To Katy's question he says, "I'd like a turn at it too.  Shucks, we all should get as proficient at driving as possible.  Never know when you may wind up in a high-speed chase involving undead pro racers while the rest of the team is too wounded to drive."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:51, Wed 15 Jan 2020.
Sevro
GM, 5 posts
Sun 29 Mar 2020
at 18:59
  • msg #37

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Sevro spends the next two days split between upgrading his fire pistol into a Thermal Laser so he no longer needs alchemical fire as a fuel source for it and working on repairs to the shuttle.
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 11 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Sun 29 Mar 2020
at 19:35
  • msg #38

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Since Samuel knows how to drive a lot of vehicles he nods as both Katy and Pyrus want to learn how to drive the truck as he says, “I have no problems with showing you both or anyone else how to drive, although it would be a while before I feel either of you two are skilled enough to handle unexpected situations.”

With that said, before the party leaves Hope for the Scrap Valley, he gives the two a quick rundown on what the controls do and makes sure they will both be sitting in parts of the truck that will allow them to see what he's doing as he drives along the road.

While that is going on, Matthew makes sure that the Gravwagon is hitched to the Armored Truck and that all the supplies are secured, either within the truck or on the Gravwagon.

It isn't long before the group is ready and heads out from the Hope settlement towards the Scrap Valley as the road to the southeast makes the journey quick and smooth. The group sees little signs of activity or wildlife while heading to the Scrap Valley and after a few hours reaches the edge of that region with only the occasional boulder or tree or clumps of grass along being visible from the armored truck as it drives by. Samuel stops the truck once he comes close enough to the valley to see the 50ft cliff that surrounds most of the Scrap Valley. Further down the road is a path that leads into the valley with a scrapyard that looks like it has seen better days next to the entrance, towards the northern part of the valley is the remains of a ruined factory, while in the middle is what remains of a mall, or strip center, with how damaged the site is, it is difficult to determine which it was. In the southern part of the valley are some ruined homes just north of what looks to be a crashed vehicle of some sort. From this distance, it is difficult to tell where the gnome clan is living. Spread throughout the valley are boulders, trees, and numerous depressions in the ground that could either be sinkholes of craters that could have been caused by any number of things.

Samuel then speaks up, “So where do we want to do first? We know the gnomes are somewhere in the valley and so is some sort of monster And from this viewpoint, the crashed vehicle might be the meteor that Gwydion was talking about as it looks mangled enough to be mistaken for a lump of rock if you don't know what to look for. Hopefully, it's internal components are in better shape than its exterior.”

Matthew replies, “Then that is probably where the Kobolds Gwydion mentioned are so we probably should leave it alone for the moment. Instead, I think we should see what we can find in that junkyard and then work our way through the ruins until we can find some sign of the Gnomes.” Matthew glances around to the others and asks, “Does anyone else have an idea on now we should proceed?”

OOC: The party is now on the Scrap Valley map in Roll20 I have the party situationed how they are seated within the Armored Truck at the moment.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:36, Sun 29 Mar 2020.
Katy
player, 23 posts
Mon 30 Mar 2020
at 04:49
  • msg #39

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy is super grateful to Samuel for teaching her and Pyrus about driving.

When the group arrives and Matthew gives his suggestion as well as asking for input, Katy pokes her nose over Samuel's shoulder, half-standing on her seat as her wagging tail brushes against Pyrus's nose. "I agree with Matthew, but if I could add to that, what if we do a quick circle around the canyon? Shouldn't take but five minutes and we would get a three-sixty view of the entire canyon. Might even spot people or monsters or something that were hiding on the east end, not anticipating people going off-road. Might even spot the gnomes. All while maintaining a height advantage so they can't readily attack us while we scout."
Miku Hatsune
Player, 2 posts
Entertainer extrodinaire!
Can fix your booboos too.
Mon 30 Mar 2020
at 04:53
  • msg #40

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Miku had provided music on the way and taught "car songs" to anyone interested. In her usual fashion, Miku tries to keep the group cheerful and upbeat.

Miku says, "I'm fine with Matt and Katy's suggestions. Though I am quite curious about the really big building. I don't really have any strategic suggestions to add."
Mike D99
player, 22 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Mon 30 Mar 2020
at 05:13
  • msg #41

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  "It's basically a coinflip for if the Gnomes are holed up in the Mall, or a bunch of zombies are in the mall.  Unless we wanted to get it out of the way first thing, we should probably either save the Kobold zone for last, or not at all just yet."
Pyrus
Mon 30 Mar 2020
at 05:53
  • msg #42

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

"It'd be more profitable to negotiate a bounty for the Kobolds from the gnomes before we go killing any Kobolds.  If not for that I'd say get them out of the way first.  I'll take a quick fly to see if I can spot where the gnomes are and report back."

Unless the group objects, Pyrus will scout the valley from the air and return.
Sevro
GM, 6 posts
Thu 2 Apr 2020
at 20:41
  • msg #43

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Sevro grins slightly at Pyrus' idea and speaks up, "I like that idea, and I'll send out my drones to help scout from the sky. Just make sure to have a radio on you, just in case of an emergency."
Wastelands Narrator
Narrator, 12 posts
For the D&D 5e
Wastelands Campaign
Mon 6 Apr 2020
at 17:56
  • msg #44

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

With no one objecting to the aerial scouting, it isn't long before Pyrus and Sevro's drones manage to do a quick sweep of the area. Fortunately, nothing tries to attack them in the air.

However, upon the conclusion of the aerial reconnaissance, it is revealed that there is a group of bandits comprised of both humans and orcs in the junkyard near where the road enters the valley. The group doesn't seem to be too organized, but they can obviously make it difficult for anyone in and around the junkyard that they have set up camp within.

In the northern area of the valley within the ruined factory, several goblin scouts were spotted which indicates that a goblin clan is living in the ruins and may or may not be hostile to others but they are clearly on guard for anyone approaching the factory.

There are also various animal tracks around the ruined mall or strip center area, but whatever creatures have made a nest or den in those ruins can't be seen from above.

Towards the south between the ruined mall and the crash site is a group of ruined houses and while there are signs of activity there, it is impossible to determine if it is just people salvaging from the buildings or if someone is living among them.

The crash site goes into the valley wall and it is obvious that a kobold tribe has established itself here with graffiti and minor fortifications set up around the large trench that leads into the valley wall where a portion of whatever crashed into the group must be located.

Unfortunately, there are no obvious clues as to where the clan of gnomes are living. It is assumed that they are hiding their presence due to one or more of the other groups in the area.
Matthew Felix
Player, 5 posts
Cyber Ninja (Rogue)
Level 2
Mon 6 Apr 2020
at 18:03
  • msg #45

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Upon hearing what Pryus and Sevro discover, Matthew asks, "Okay since we've already ruled out going after the Kobolds for now what do we want to deal with first? The bandits are an obvious option since if we bypass them, they could try to barricade us into the valley. And we already know that there is some sort of monster that has made a lair in this valley but it could be hidden in the mall, among the houses, or it could even be a pet controlled by the bandits, goblins, or Kobolds and just kept out of view.”

Samuel taps his chin as he says, “Well given the terrain, the bandits have made use of the junkyard to provide good cover if attacked from outside the valley so we'd have to enter the valley to flush them out since there is no real cover at the edge of the valley wall around the junkyard... and if they can just lob grenades or something at us, we'd be at a severe disadvantage. Also, we don't know if they have placed traps within the junkyard...”
Katy
player, 24 posts
Tue 7 Apr 2020
at 00:38
  • msg #46

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Katy appreciates that Sam laid out the possibility of grenades and traps. She says, "We won't find out unless we engage them. We can approach as friendly and if they attack us just for being there, we'll know we can't deal with them except by violence. But since Sevro's a sniper, why not have him up top and he can focus on sniping anyone who looks like they might be throwing grenades at us?"

Matthew has deduced some kind of pet is being kept by one or all of the groups inside the valley. But that scrapyard is far enough away from the other buildings that the group would see such a pet coming from a long ways away (unless it can magically turn invisible).

Katy smiles at Pyrus and Sevro. "Thanks for the scouting, guys."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:39, Tue 07 Apr 2020.
Miku Hatsune
Player, 3 posts
Entertainer extrodinaire!
Can fix your booboos too.
Tue 7 Apr 2020
at 00:45
  • msg #47

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Miku taps her chin with her finger in thought. "I don't like the idea of Sevro being alone, but we could potentially clear out the area he would be positioned in to make sure he won't get snuck up on himself. Along those lines, are there others who should hide during the initial meeting so they underestimate our numbers? I am considering the idea of one of us approaching the scrapyard solo to talk to them. Surely they wouldn't attack a lone person with grenades and lasers and stuff?"
Mike D99
player, 23 posts
Robots with guns.
Inside robots with guns.
Tue 7 Apr 2020
at 02:01
  • msg #48

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

  "If the only signs of life around the mall are animal tracks, then I get the feeling the heavily armed 'everyone else' is avoiding the place for a reason."  You know, beyond trying to stick to their encounter map borders.

  "I mean, bandits aren't exactly known for their restraint even without being drugged up or full of space slugs.  So while getting Servo a nice sniper nest secured sounds good, sending someone in alone is probably out unless we're confident in diplomacy mattering for once."
Pyrus
Tue 7 Apr 2020
at 03:37
  • msg #49

Wastelands: Excursion to the Scrap Valley

Pyrus was sure to stay far up enough that even snipers would be taking a severe penalty to hit trying to shoot a moving target from that distance.  He's disappointed he didn't find the gnomes, but it makes sense that they'd be hard to spot from the air.

The young prince smiles at Katy and gives a gentlemanly bow.  "You bet."

"If Miku would rather not, I'm willing to be the representative for the team.  But I certainly don't trust the bandits enough to allow anyone to just openly walk up to them alone.  If we can rig a little parachute, I can drop them a walkie-talkie so we can negotiate from a safe distance.  I expect that they'll demand some huge payment for the privilege of being allowed to pass by unharmed, but it could work for us to pay up.  We can then ask them where the gnomes are and other details about the valley not so obvious from the sky.  Then, after the gnomes hire us to wipe out the various threats in the valley, (with the bandits a likely point on their list,) we can then take back whatever it was we paid the bandits for passage."

(( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A194vDpXzyA ))
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:40, Tue 07 Apr 2020.
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