The next morning the adventurers met Galenna thru the portal to Hexia's to begin their expedition. The morning was calm and bright, a promising start to what should be an interesting quest.

After everyone has gathered, Tidelan nods to each member solemnly, before slowly walking towards Galenna Keenbellow, before stopping mere feet from her person, and dropping to kneel before her. Even on his knees, Tidelan is still taller than the female gnome.

"When you call this expedition, my Sylvan Oath will force me to defend your life with my whole self. I request you to please speak it as, "I call this hunt, and bind my green knight to me"" the genasi's head was bowed low, and his silvered hair floated in the air like restless waves, and glistened like a reflective mirror.

Under his breath, he whispered ""
This message was last edited by the player at 22:17, Sun 28 Feb 2021.

Santio watched on with interest.
He was intrigued by the customs of other cultures.

Verbannt came trudging into Hexia's shop, adjusting his heavy pack as he did so. He carried a large wooden shield strapped to his left arm, the front carved and painted to resemble an enormous eye. He watched Tidelan in silence, his expression inscrutable as he regarded the ritual.

"Greetings Galenna Keenbellow."

He said at last.

"I have no such pledge to give, but my eyes are sharp and my knives sharp. Are you to be our warleader as well, or are we to handle such things ourselves?"

When the genasi kneeled before Galenna it took her somewhat by surprise, but after he requested she replied, "Very well then, I call this hunt, and bind my green knight to me." When Lukas walked thru the portal and addressed Galenna she answered, "A warleader? As in someone to lead you in battle? Oh, no no no. I'm afraid I'm useless in battle. That's why you all are here after all. Bodyguards should be good in fights."

Spark watches Tidelan's oath with his normally stone-faced, or rather a metal-faced demeanour. Much seemed to have changed within the adventurer he had travelled with not so long ago. He surmised that in this place where mortal danger was an everyday occurrence, those who persisted found deeper ad more profound connections to both themselves and those the interacted with.

After keeping his silence in respect, he smiled at Galenna's words. "I think this will work out nicely. Several of us have travelled together before, and I would say you are in good hands."

Extending a metal hand in Santio's direction, he sought to introduce himself. "I'm Spark, a war forged as you might have guessed. I'm a smith who sometimes heals people as well as metal constructions."

"Boneclaw", Boneclaw said using Lukas' voice, pointing at himself:"In the end all are judged by the lord of death."
He nodded at Spark's comment:"this will work out nicely".

Verbannt grunted, pleased to no longer have to occupy the space of warleader. It had cost him, in the end. Better to just be a hunter, and work with warriors, the living statue, and the death priest.

"We are ready then."

He added, resting one paw on the long knife he bore. The shield was new, for all who have traveled with him before. It seemed he had decided to forgo the bow then, though he still had it in its quiver at his back. Given his skills as a Skinwalker, perhaps not even the knives would come into play.

Santio pleasantly took the metal man’s hand, and shook it.
“Santio”, he said.  Then, to respond in kind to that which was offered, he said, “I run fast.   And I play flute as best I can”.

A moment of inspiration came upon him, “Shall I play for you all now?” reaching for his pack.

Tidelan nodded eagerly. It seemed a bit out-of-place for him to respond like that to Santio, but it had been a long time since he'd listened to a piper... he wondered if the man would let him teach him tunes from his homeland... Though, the druid was no musician.

Enjoyed that someone seemed enthusiastic, Santio did pull out his flute, and happily played several tunes for any who would listen.

Santio was, indeed, something of a musician* ... and was absolutely happy to both learn new tunes, and teach others the flute skills and tunes that he himself knew.



* with his 'Flute Proficiency', you see

Okay guys sorry, but I need to add something.
As you all make your way thru the portal to Hexia's Shop you each notice Brohm following thru as well.
Please return to the Hexia's Shop Thread if you wish to interact with Brohm or see what happens next. We will be returning to this thread after you all have officially left Hexia's Shop.

As your group leaves Hexia's shop behind you notice that Brohm is heading North away from the direction Galenna begins to lead you. She leads you East, almost like heading back to Smith's Gambit, but you know by the route she had laid out for you that you'll soon be heading North yourselves and following the wilderness around to the East, then circling back to the Fierce Hearts village to finish your journey. If you would see the Dwarf again, who could say? Either way you all follow after the gnomish woman who hired you. The day is bright and thus far peaceful. Deceiving? Perhaps. Each of you would find out soon enough as you begin your trek listening to the flute music being played by Santio.

After they've all set out, Tidelan begins talking to the group as a whole while striding near Galenna so that he could protect her to his fullest, "My companions-of-war, we have all fought together before... I... I have an asking"

The genasi grew more nervous as he continued that sentence, before swallowing, and visibly psyching himself up "I hope it is true for me to call you many as 'friend'... I admire your strengths, and your souls of honor. I wish to truly become friends with you"

The druid glanced behind himself with a grimace on his face, and his eyes shone with unshed tears... or maybe just freshwater, it was hard to tell as he was a quasielemental entity.

Within the space between two steps while his direction of vision was behind himself, his eyes landed first on Lukas, then on Spark, then Boneclaw, and then finally Santio. An attentive onlooker who noticed this would be aware this was roughly equal to the amount of conversation he had made with the gathered party members. He had actually travelled more with the kenku than with the warforged, but he reckoned he had spoken to the former less.

His head soon went back to stare ahead as his eyes did not linger. He marched with an odd cadence that made clear he was awaiting answers.

OOC: I don't know if this will sidetrack us too much, but I did figure it was about time for this barbearian boi to admit his feelings, lol. Also, I figured it would be neat to have some travel conversation, rather than just an immediate time-skip

Verbannt had watched the Dwarf with fierce interest, but not asked as to the meaning behind his departure. He had ranged on his own through these lands, he would not begrudge another the experience. When the Genasi's words caught his ear, he paused in his stride, turning to stare at Tidelan.

"In truth, I had thought my presence here would be met by much of what Brohm of Clan Stonehelm has dealt. I am not wise in the ways of 'friendlore,' even the word sounds strange on my tongue..."

And it did, in truth.

"... but I would not challenge you in your words. Respect, that I understand."

He hit his chest with a closed fist.

"I have fought by your side, and bled by you. I would do so again."

He left it at that, turning to walk their path.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:22, Tue 09 Mar 2021.

"Aaaaw, that's so cute!", Boneclaw added in a little girl's voice.

Spark nodded his appreciation and acknowledgement of Tidelan's words. "I have not had an issue with any one of you previously, and in any case, I will call anyone friend who doesn't harm or hinder my work."

Though his face was still turned from his allies, Tidelan almost imperceptibly nodded his head after Lukas spoke, raised an eye at Boneclaw's phrasing, and smiled slightly at Spark.

After those three had spoken, he did not wait for Santio, and turned back once more with a hopeful smile. It wasn't an expression he'd made to others from town before. It may have looked odd on his face, as he hadn't practiced it much, in many years.

"Daro. Thank you for allowing my selfishness" Tidelan said.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:30, Wed 10 Mar 2021.

Santio was a bit confused by Tidelan’s ... admissions.
So he just continued walking, playing his flute happily.

"So what have you fine fellows been up to since our last adventure with the tribe of goblins?" Spark inquired by way of making conversation as they moved. "I had only just finished setting up my forge and undertaken a short patrol for Smith before this."

Tidelan allowed Lukas to answer first if he wished, since he was their commander during the mission Spark was absent for.

Otherwise, he spoke up, "After our first hunt killed Muzzrink and caused ruin for the Redfoot Clan, Smith sent us to..." the foreign man looked for the correct phrase, "build bridges... with other local goblins at Threeclaw Point."

The druid continued, "That is where us three," he said, signalling to Lukas, himself and Boneclaw, "first met meek Santio and the dwarven ranger Brohm"

The Genasi glanced at the Bugbear before continuing, "Brohm... took anger by something said to the goblins on his behalf... there was a duel. Brohm won, but it seems he does not have the honor to forgive our friend Lukas"

He shook his head with disappointment, "I thought then they would not stay so... bitter... once they fought."

Suddenly, Tidelan remembered something. "Metal friend, I do not remember if I have asked you yet, but I may request your forging skills in the future for my tournament"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Wed 10 Mar 2021.

Verbannt had remained silent while Tidelan had given his retelling, for there was little enough for him to add.

"Not even blood could quench the ire of the Dwarf, it seems. Let us begin this new hunt, and we can share stories of our battles as we do. How have you busied yourself, Spark?"

The group continued to talk as they trekked thru the Rimewood leaving behind a small trail of foot prints in the snow. The snow glistens in the light of the sun as a slight cool breeze starts to circle the group, but they keep walking. Hours pass and things go smoothly as there doesn't seem to be anything willing to disturb the group.

Tidelan near the front of the marching order with Galenna, facing ahead, suddenly stops in place, holds out a hand to the others [bidding them to hold their march] and glances to the tree-line on the group's right.

He whistles sharply and goes "Huoy! Garo! Garoro!" with a tone like someone telling a small animal to 'get lost'. A threatening growl sounds from his body. It's such a low sound, it seems to come from his sternum. He also extends his chest and bares his teeth.

Verbannt watched Tidelan with a strange expression on his face, his teeth ever so slightly bared.

"I have some Beastlore, I could try and soothe it should your whistles and growling be meaningless. Were we not on a job, I might even try and tame it."

He shrugged, and looked to their employer.

"What do you wish done?"

Only a moment after Tidelan starts yelling the group hears movement coming from behind several of the trees. A total of 6 medium sized spiders reveal themselves, 3 to the right  and 3 to the left.
Everyone please roll me initiative.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:28, Mon 15 Mar 2021.

20:12, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 18 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative.

Spark, not having seen or heard anything before Tidelan starts growling, looks with a mixture of trepidation and interest at the approaching threat. "Ambush spiders?" He muses to himself as he gets ready.


04:37, Today: Spark rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Santio stops playing his flute, as Tidelan begins to address the trees.
Already, when the spiders appear, Santio is slipping the instrument into his belt ... while he drops into a defensive stance, his quarterstaff now spinning in a slow arch to rest beneath his arm pit.

- rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  Init (d20+Dex).
Seems Santio is a little slow on the uptake this morning.   

11:47, Today: Boneclaw rolled 21 using 1d20+2.

Boneclaw whipped out a bow and arrow and aimed at one of the spiders.

Enemy 1 moves fast towards its prey and before Lukas Verbannt knows it he sees teeth gnashing towards him, but they only catch air for now.
Enemy 1 moves to C8 and tries to attack Lukas Verbannt, but misses.
Enemy 2 swiftly races towards Lukas Verbannt as well, but again the gnashing teeth miss him.
Enemy 2 move to C7 and tries to attack Lukas Verbannt, but misses.
Enemy 3 rushes forward as close as it can get.
Enemy 3 moves to D8.
Enemy 4 runs forward at Galenna Keenbellow not giving a second glance at Tidelan Wavyrus. Its teeth go for her, but she just narrowly misses them with a, "Yipe!"
Enemy 4 moves to C6 and tries to attack Galenna Keenbellow, but misses.
Enemy 5 rushes forward as well heading straight for the gnomish woman. It lunges forward at her, but she misses it just in time.
Enemy 5 moves to C5 and tries to attack Galenna Keenbellow, but misses.
Enemy 6 rushes forward as close as it can get.
Enemy 6 moves to D5.

Map is as follows:
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Enemy
2.	Boneclaw	21
3.	Lukas Verbannt	18
4.	Spark	12
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	7
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	6
7.	Santio	5

Round 1 actions please.


This message was last updated by the GM at 20:20, Wed 17 Mar 2021.

Boneclaw rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  attack.

Boneclaw felt encouraged by the presence of old and new friends and reacted as accurately as he did swiftly. "Right in the old kisser!", he barked at the spider.

Boneclaw rolled 10 using 1d6+5. Damage).

                round 1 actions
Santio moved into skirmish range with the nearest Ambush-Spider attacking Keelbellow.
His quarter staff spinning in both hands, and his feet cartwheeling around in a dangerous whirling attack, he hoped to both damage it (causing it to consider backing off some), and draw its ire away from their gnomish boss.


Santio moves to B-04 to attack the Spider in C-05
- rolled 14 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Attack.
    - rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  Quarterstaff Damage.
- rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Attack.
    - rolled 6 using 1d4+3.  Unarmed Damage.

also: {It} The Spider must make a Strength saving throw. If it fails, you can push it up to 1 5 feet away from you
     ... hopefully pushing the bugger away from Keelbellow
This message was last edited by the player at 22:09, Wed 17 Mar 2021.

The ambush shocked the genasi. He thought the monsters would lose their confidence and see how clearly suicidal it would be to attack the travelers.

Their numbers were much larger than the one he had seen earlier. This was a troublesome amount of foes to deal with.

Then, Galenna was attacked.

Tidelan roared with maddened rage, "AAUUURRGGHHHH".

Since Tidelan was surrounded by allies, he could not transform into a massive beast and risk causing harm to any of them.

His blue-hued veins erected underneath his neck and temples... His muscle fibers were visible underneath his rough, vibrant flesh... His eyes began to leak, not with tears, but with frothing brine.

His magical spear - taken off the corpse of a fallen warlord whom he and his allies had once slain for his crimes - shot forward at incredible speeds towards the enemy harassing his sworn ward [E6].



OOC: bonus action rage, attack action, no movement
This message was last edited by the player at 22:29, Wed 17 Mar 2021.

Verbannt kept his shield up between himself and the leaping spiders, relying on his long reach and fast reflexes to keep himself safe. It proved a wise choice, for none of the venomous fangs touched him. His own long knife lashed out, piercing the hairy exoskeleton of the chittering enemy in front of Tidelan. Then he twisted, bringing his shield up to again cover his flank.

Hit Enemy 4 on a 17 for 9 Piercing.

19:56, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 17 using 1d20+6.  Attack.
19:59, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 9 using 2d6+6.  Shortsword + Sneak Attack.

Spark recognises the awesome potential of his friends, but also the great number of foes. He strikes a balanced approach. He decides to move closer to the gnome, bolster her defences with a short prayer, and hopefully draw some of their attention away.

The sigil on his chest briefly takes on a different characteristic, and on the very edge of perception, the slow shift of a great gear can be heard as the warforged reaches out to place a steadying hand on Galenna.

Then he looks at the spider in front of her and makes a shooing motion with his mace before shifting away from both gnome and it.

Move: 25 ft to B04
Bonus action: Cast Shield of Faith on Galenna Keenbellow (+2 to her AC)
Action: Attack E5 with mace
Move: 5ft to B03

04:40, Today: Spark rolled 15,6 using 1d20+5,1d6+3.  atk / dmg.

Boneclaw pulls back an arrow lets it fly directly into the spider in front of Galenna Keenbellow. It sinks deep as Boneclaw mimics in yet another voice, "Right in the old kisser!" The spider shrieks back in pain.
Boneclaw takes aim at Enemy 5 and hits dealing 10 damage to it. Boneclaw, you didn't put which spider you were attacking so I chose one for you. I hope I chose the right one.

Lukas Verbannt continued to hold his shield up until he saw an opportunity to strike. When he did he hit deep causing this spider to shriek back in pain as well.
Lukas Verbannt attacks Enemy 4 and hits dealing 9 damage to it.

Spark moves forward to Galenna Keenbellow's side. He places a reassuring hand on her shoulder and before she knows it she feels stronger. Without hesitation he then brings a mace down on top of the spider in front of Galenna Keenbellow crushing it almost completely. The spider falls to the ground defeated.
Spark moved to B4 casting Shield of Faith on Galenna Keenbellow, then he attacked Enemy 5 with his mace hitting and dealing it 6 damage. Enemy 5 is crushed to a pulp and is dead! Spark moves to B3.

Galenna Keenbellow swiftly hurries behind the others trying to sparate herself from the spiders.
Galenna Keenbellow disengages and moves to A7.

Tidelan Wavyrus roared a mighty roar as he let his rage consume him, then he turned his sights on the spider approaching. He threw his spear firmly and with much strength behind it to see it hit Enemy 6 dead on. The spider hissed and shrieked in pain like the others before it.
Tidelan Wavyrus rages and attacks Enemy 6 hitting and dealing 8 damage to it.

Santio move to where Galenna Keenbellow once stood and took aim at the nearest spider to him. He wacked at it with his quarterstaff hitting it dead on then went to strike it again, this time with his feet, hitting it so hard that the spider collapsed onto the ground.
Santio moves to B5 to attack Enemy 4 hitting and dealing a total of 13 damage to it. Enemy 4 is dead! Hope you don't mind Santio I made a couple of minor adjustments so that your attack still went through.

Enemy 1 once again gnashes it teeth towards Lukas Verbannt, but this time sinks its fangs into his shoulder.
Enemy 1 tries to attack Lukas Verbannt and hits for 7 damage. Lukas Verbannt must make a DC 11 Constitution saving throw, taking 7 poison damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Enemy 2 thrusts itself forward to lunge an attack at Lukas Verbannt, but it misses and catches nothing except air.
Enemy 2 tries to attack Lukas Verbannt, but misses.
Enemy 3 moves swiftly and jumps forward attacking Lukas Verbannt, but its jump is in vein as it falls short.
Enemy 3 moves to B8 and attacks Lukas Verbannt, but misses.
Enemy 4 lays on the ground dead.
Enemy 5 lays on the ground dead.
Enemy 6 tries to run away and as it starts moving the spear that was sticking out of it falls to the ground.
Enemy 6 dashes moving as far as it can on the map continuing to move an additional 40 feet off the map.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Enemy
2.	Boneclaw	21
3.	Lukas Verbannt	18
4.	Spark	12
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	7
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	6
7.	Santio	5

Round 2 actions please.

It soon became clear why Verbannt had chosen to wield the shield, for as three of the spiders descended upon him, he managed to ward off all but the first of them. The first one was too fast, getting under his shield and sinking its fangs into his thigh. He grunted in pain and seemed to stumble a bit as the venom coursed through his veins, falling into himself. In truth, he was only readying himself for a lunch, planting his enourmous hunting knife directly into one of the eight eyes of the spider on his left flank.

[Language unknown: "Asma p onsdinthi!:]

He shouted through the pain, his voice more a roar than anything humanoid.

Hit E2 on an 18 for 13 piercing.

17:27, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  Con save.
17:34, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 13 using 2d6+4.  Actual damage.
17:34, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 18 using 1d20+6.  Attack.

Tidelan moves into the spot where an arachnid corpse just fell [C7] and recklessly stabs at the monstrous entity closest to his ward [E3], with his enchanted spear.

He also stores his shield onto his backside so that he can attack with both hands on his weapon. He has completely forgone defense to bait the spiders into attacking him rather than Lady Keenbellow.

Move: 5 ft

Action: Attack recklessly with versatile two-handed mode.

Free Action Object Interaction: Unequip Shield

quote:

21:20, Today: Tidelan Wavyrus rolled 43 using 2d20+4.  Reckless attack against evil arachnids.

I forgot to record each die. I got a 19 and a 20, though. Fortunately, you can tell that's true by the end sum, 'cause otherwise I would've had to reroll it to avoid suspicion.

quote:

21:22, Today: Tidelan Wavyrus rolled 12 using 2d8+4.  Crit damage.

OOC: Also, Tidelan wouldn't have had to obtain his dropped weapon as his object interaction, since he never actually through it. I said it 'shot forward', but it didn't leave his grip. Also, if he had thrown at an adjacent enemy, he would've had disadvantage on the attack since it would be ranged, ha ha.


This message was last edited by the player at 01:25, Fri 19 Mar 2021.

Boneclaw rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  attack.
Boneclaw rolled 11 using 1d6+5. damage

Boneclaw fumbled cocking his arrow on his next shot and aimed at the spider attacking Lukas, but let it fly nonetheless in hopes fate would be kind to him.

E6 was in D5 at the time you attacked and you didn't move so the spider would have been too far away for you to reach without throwing the spear. Even with the disadvantage you had advantage from Reckless Attack meaning only your first roll counted, but that was the higher of the two anyways. E6 is the one you specified to attack isn't it? Spears only reach 5ft unless thrown then their range becomes 20ft/60ft.

Ah, my bad. I must've read the map wrong.

So, I guess that means two things are possible for Tidelan's round 2 actions

1. He uses his bonus action to pick up his spear [my preferred option, if you allow it]

2. He uses his object interaction to pick up the spear, and I re-roll damage to be using d6s rather than d8s since he could not stash his shield with the object interaction, thus preventing him from getting the versatile damage dice

In an acrobatic flip, using his quarterstaff for stability, Santio landed upon the the dead spider in front of Tidelan.
- move to C-06

From there, he aided with the pummelling of the nearest Ambush-Spider using quarterstaff and kicks.
- rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  whirling staff attack.
     - rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  staff damage.
- rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  kick attack.
     - rolled 7 using 1d4+3.  kick damage.

Spark heard the pained cry from his companion but guessed it was as much indignation at having been struck as actual pain from the wound, and he decided against using precious healing magic at this stage of the fight. Instead, he surveyed he battlefield for a way to help end the fight before wading in with a determined look.

Move: 25 ft to D07
Action: Attack E1 with mace

04:40, Today: Spark rolled 9,9 using 1d20+5,1d6+3.  atk / dmg.

Boneclaw struggles with his arrow as he draws it back to shoot. It goes wide missing its target.

Lukas Verbannt shouts out in Goblin and strikes out toward the spider to his side. The knife almost seemed to disappear as it skewered the beast completely. The spider stops moving.
Lukas Verbannt attacks and hits Enemy 2 dealing it 13 damage. Enemy 2 is dead!

Spark surveyed the battlefield before rushing in. Once in the spot he had chosen he made his move attacking Enemy 1. He misses his mace swinging wild.
Spark moves to D7.

Galenna Keenbellow carefully backs up and moves behind Boneclaw.

Tidelan Wavyrus puts his shield away to attack his foe, taking up his spear in both hands. He mercilessly stabs it as hard as he could striking true right to its core. The spider falls to the ground lifeless.
Tidelan Wavyrus move to C7. He attacks and hits Enemy 3 dealing it 12 damage. Enemy 3 is dead! Bonus action was fine this time.

Santio moves at the last spider and with a mighty blow of his staff the last spider within close range is dead.
Santio attacks and hits Enemy 1 dealing a total of 18 damage to it. Enemy 1 is dead!

Enemy 1 is dead.
Enemy 2 is dead.
Enemy 3 is dead.
Enemy 4 is dead.
Enemy 5 is dead.
Enemy 6 is now 120ft off the map and is still running.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Enemy
2.	Boneclaw	21
3.	Lukas Verbannt	18
4.	Spark	12
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	7
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	6
7.	Santio	5

Well done guys! Does anyone want to try and attack the fleeing spider?
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:08, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Spark is pleased the fight seems to have gone their way, but he does gaze in the direction of the fleeing spider as he pulls out the light crossbow he keeps at his side. Waiting for a moment to resent itself, Spark fires a bolt at the receding shape.

00:03, Today: Spark rolled 10,3 using 1d20+3,1d8+1.  atk / dmg with crossbow.

Santio smiled, pleased at their win.
Although he carried a bow, he didn’t bother attempting to take shots at the fleeing Spider.

Instead, he turned his attention outward, to watch for any other threats that might come upon them as his fellows did so ... or turned their attention to their wounds.    It wouldn’t do to be ambushed post ambush, right!

Verbannt cleaned the ichor off his hunting knife in the snow, drying it on his cloak and slipping it back to its sheath. He let out a little rumble, and tentatively put some weight on his wounded leg. It held, but he let out a little hiss of pain.

"I have herblore to treat this, the only question is one of time. Is it your wish to keep moving, Galenna Keenbellow, or can it wait an hour?"

He looked to one behind the expedition for guidance, clearly more than comfortable deferring to the woman.

"We can wait an hour or so for you to take care of your wound. We don't need anyone in our party falling to an injury that could have been handled." Galenna looked at Lukas with genuine concern then turned her attention to the group as a whole, "Well done everyone and thank you. I'm glad things didn't go worse."

Boneclaw reminded himself to be less conservative with his use of clerical magic. He had a tendency to hold off using the gifts Kelemvor bestowed on him daily.
He padded Lukas on his back and let his magic flow into the big bugbear.

No need for needless pain.

Lukas is healed for 9 hp
Boneclaw rolled 9 using 1d8+5.  Cure light wounds.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:48, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Verbannt let out a little surprised grunt as the Death Priest tapped him on the back, feeling the healing magic run through him. He tested his leg, and let out a little sound of approval.

"My thanks, Death Priest Boneclaw."

He looked at the others, nodding.

"Let us continue on our path."

Spark nodded as his eyes remained trained on the path of the retreating spider until he lost it among the trees. "It appears the last bugger really did vanish, but best to remain cautious in case it attempts another ambush."

With that, he got ready to once again set out on their path. He turned to Galenna first. "Perhaps it is wise if you point out some feature in the distance where you want to head, and then one of our more keen eyes and ears," he looked at Tidelan and Lukas, "can scout ahead and we might avoid putting you in this danger again?"

Having the person to be guarded at the head of the marching order might not seem the best move to the warforged.

"My eyes are sharp."

Verbannt confirmed.

"But to move with Stealthcraft is to move slowly. I could match your pace for perhaps two hours, but then I would have no Skinwalking to draw upon should we find ourselves in another fight. I am used to hunting alone, or not needing to cover such vast ground."

He sounded discontent.

"I will strive to learn more of this craft, so I might do better."

Tidelan nodded with Lukas and grunted his agreement.

"I am not hard to see and I am not hard to hear." the genasi muttered.

The druid added, "But, I believe we... should reveal our strength, as we travel. Monsters are not smart, but they can know fear"

The barbarian further clarified his message, "So, Lukas and I can not be scouts... but we can be front-guards, yes? We can be warnings."

"Sounds like a good plan to me." Galenna said as she jotted a few things down on the map.

Verbannt began trudging without further comment, relying on his large paws to crush down the snow so that the smaller creatures could follow in his wake.

Santio seemed happy with the plan;   or, to be honest, happy to go along with whatever was decided by the group.
He was just enjoying being out in the world, enjoying nature, experiencing adventure.

With the party back on their way, Galenna safely tucked in the middle of the group, they regained their lost momentum. It seemed, however, that not even an hour later the group heard movement coming swiftly towards them. As the group turned to see a large bearlike creature charging after them (currently about 60 feet away from the party). The creature had an owl's face, though this did not make it any less ferocious looking.
Please roll me initiative.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:07, Thu 25 Mar 2021.

This message was last edited by the player at 00:23, Thu 25 Mar 2021.

18:55, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 13 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative w/ Advantage.

Spark had to do a double-take at the look of this new threat approaching.

04:34, Today: Spark rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

- rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Initiative

Again, Santio prepared to join battle with his peers.

Boneclaw rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	13
2.	Enemy
3.	Santio	7
4.	Boneclaw	6
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	6
6.	Spark	3
7.	Tidelan Wavyrus	1

Lukas you get to go before the enemy. Please post your first round actions.

Verbannt took one look at the charging beast, his head tilting slightly to the side as he tried to piece together what it was he was seeing. With a growl he shook his head, moving South towards the two trees that were there. He put them between himself and the creature, blocking line of sight so that he could hide from its charge.


Moving to A9ish and breaking line of sight so he can hide between those trees.

21:48, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 14 using 1d20+8.  Stealth.

Enemy 1 keeps barreling forward towards the group taking no notice of Lukas Verbannt moving behind the trees.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	13
2.	Enemy
3.	Santio	7
4.	Boneclaw	6
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	6
6.	Spark	3
7.	Tidelan Wavyrus	1

Alright everyone else first round actions and Lukas second round actions please.

Move swiftly to J5, while readying bow.
Then: Shoot at the beast:
- Santio rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Bow attack.

Santio, seeing Lukas cut right into the foliage, decided to move left ... swiftly taking off into the underbrush in the hope of flanking the creature from its other side.
As he ran, he swing his bow down into place, and as he came to a halt beside a nearby tree (tree in K5), he fired off an arrow towards the beast ... only to see his shot go wildly off mark.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Mon 29 Mar 2021.

Spark got his wits back and hefted his shield and mace with a determined look. "It seems a ferocious beast, but let us hope its bark is worse than its bite." With that, he strides forward with hopes of blocking the creature's progress through the somewhat dense forest, touching the holy symbol printed on his chest before he goes.

As he walks he clanks the mace against his steel shield to make noise and focus the beast's attention.

Bonus Action: Cast Shield of Faith on himself - Spark's AC is now 22
Move: 30ft to F7
Action: Dodge action - Attacks will have disadvantage against him.

"Kelemvor, guide my hand", Boneclaw muttered in a borrowed voice as he held out his holy symbol from which a bright light formed into a bolt of radiant energy that the kenku flung at the approaching beast.

Boneclaw rolled 17 using 1d20+5. spell attack (Guiding Bolt).
Boneclaw rolled 12 using 4d6 ((3,6,1,2)). spell damage (Guiding Bolt)
The next attack on the beast is made with Advantage.

Tidelan sighs in annoyance. This beast is far below his pack, and it should know it's place in the hierarchy of strength. Gaea would be disappointed in this entity.

Most likely, it is either an unnatural monster with no connection to Her Sylvan Majesty, The Worldsoul, or simply starving and thus desperate.

With a sad shake of his head, an indicator that he has reluctantly made his resolve, he strides forward towards the entity. Calculating it's strength, and his own resources, his eyes glint ferociously and his skin melts into an indistinctive ball of fur, and he becomes large enough to block the sun from a smaller foe's gaze.

He is about on par with the enemy in terms of physical build, now. Since his mind is still in this moment clear of anger, he also uses this opportunity to get a look at the enemy and determine it's appearance and possibly it's species.



This message was last edited by the player at 14:24, Mon 29 Mar 2021.

It felt good to fight beside Tidelan again, Verbannt had grown used to the other Skinwalker's tactics. He waited for the assault to begin, then loped around on his lon legs to harry the beast's flank. Engaged with the much larger threat of the bear, he could worry away at it with his long knife. He hadn't yet found blood, but he would.

Move to it and miss.

10:02, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 11 using 1d20+6.  Shortword.

Santio swiftly moves drawing bow in hand, but as he goes to take the shot he loses focus and the shot goes wide.
Santio moves to J5.

"Kelemvor, guide my hand" Boneclaw speaks in words not his own as he holds up his holy symbol and a flash of light darts out of it at the bear-like creature.
Boneclaw attacks using Guiding Bolt and hits for 12 damage. The next attack on the creature has advantage.

Galenna Keenbellow stays put where she's at deciding that it is still the safest place for her.

Spark hits his mace against his shield gathering the creature's attention.
Spark moves to F7, activates Shield of Faith, and uses the Dodge action.

Tidelan Wavyrus's body changes and morphs into that of a great bear. He rushes forward and strikes at the creature first with his claws and next with a mighty bite. Both hit target.
Tidelan Wavyrus transforms and moves to G8-H7. He attacks and hits with both attacks dealing a total of 24 damage.
End of Round 1

Beginning of Round 2

Lukas Verbannt takes his short sword and moves to attack the creature, but misses wildly.
Lukas Verbannt moves to G11.

Enemy 1 roared as it took the damage. Anyone could tell this thing would not happy. It goes to bite at Tidelan Wavyrus and it hits digging its beak into Tidelan Wavyrus's shoulder hard then releasing. It then went to slash him with its claws. It strikes, hard.
Enemy 1 attacks Tidelan Wavyrus and deals a total of 12 piercing damage and 15 slashing damage.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	13
2.	Enemy
3.	Santio	7
4.	Boneclaw	6
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	6
6.	Spark	3
7.	Tidelan Wavyrus	1

Round 2 actions please and Lukas round 3.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:24, Tue 30 Mar 2021.

Verbannt knew this fight well, even if the creature before him was a mystery, and it only had one ending. The damage his fellow Skinwalker was was taking was a temporary thing, shed as soon as the beast form was. The long cut to the ribs that his massive knife drew, on the other hand, would be permanent. This wasn't a fight, so much as a butchery, and he set about it with grim determination.

18:59, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 9 using 2d6+4.  Damage.
18:59, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 19 using 1d20+6.  Short Sword.

As Lukas, Tidelan and Spark moved to confront the beast head-on, Santio continued his wide-about run; dropping his bow (he'd retrieve it later) and spinning into action (using his quarterstaff and kick-boxing) into the rear flank of the beast.

Move to J8 (assuming the beast is facing west; towards Lukas and Tidelan)

- rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Attack.
     - rolled 4 using 1d8+3.  Quarterstaff Damage.
- rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Attack.
     - rolled 7 using 1d4+3.  Unarmed Damage.

Shocked at the beast wounding Tidelan as badly as it did Boneclaw felt it was best the beast would go down sooner than later. He got to within 30 feet and prepared the beast for death.

Boneclaw uses Path to the Grave: The next attack will do double damage.

After being struck, Tidelan was taken by surprise by the amount of harm this thing could inflict on him. If this were his real body, he would have been forced to either disengage or find some other way to protect himself in the upcoming moments. He had no memory of such a thing occurring to him in his time here...

Briefly looking back, Tidelan vaguely recalled once falling unconscious in battle... That felt longer ago than it should have; but it wasn't particularly traumatic for him. No, with his upbringing it would be the foreseeable result of all violent encounters, ridiculously.

His anger spiked massively as he thought of his life in Farrad once more. This wild creature would be his victim to vent that frustration out on.

On Tidelan's next assault on the unexpectedly-powerful creature, he repeats his moves from before, but this time strikes with his claws first since if Boneclaw's magic is still up at this point, he wants to see his own hands rend this thing from it's soul.

If it truly is a creature of the wild, Gaea will embrace it after it's death. He has a chuckle thinking about it reincarnating as a small plant as a very sylvan punishment.

Spark had forgotten how fearsome his companions could be when they turned into their animal forms, but he didn't like the grievous wounds on Tidelan's body from one flurry of the enemy's attacks.

Hoping still to draw its attention and at least split the danger of being felled by the creature, Spark swung his mace at it.

Move: 10ft to G9
Action: Attack with mace

14:53, Today: Spark rolled 21,4 using 1d20+5,1d6+3 ((16,1)).

Santio moved into action quick as he dropped his bow and grabbed his quarterstaff. With it he pounded into this creature with all his might.
Santio moves to J8 and attacks dealing a total of 11 damage.

Boneclaw puts his hands together and prays to Kelemvor.
Boneclaw activates Path to the Grave: The next attack will do double damage.

Galenna Keenbellow stays put where she's at deciding that it is still the safest place for her.

Spark approaches the creature and strikes at it hard with his mace.
Spark moves to G9 and attacks dealing it a total of 8 damage.

Tidelan Wavyrus slashes at the creature one final with great force and manages to hit the creature's head so hard that it turns further in the other direction than it probably should.
Tidelan Wavyrus attacks and deals a total of 16 damage. The creature is dead!
The creature's body falls to the ground heavily.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	13
2.	Enemy
3.	Santio	7
4.	Boneclaw	6
5.	Galenna Keenbellow	6
6.	Spark	3
7.	Tidelan Wavyrus	1

Well done guys! You each get 140xp!

Tidelan takes a hot breath of relief. This form was well-battered. He considers giving the vicious ursine equivalent of puppy dog eyes to the group so that he may get a chance to rest briefly and heal naturally in this form, but he realizes that would be pointless, as his form would fade very soon after the rest would conclude.

Instead, he stays in the damaged form for a moment, as he decides to take a look at the creature's corpse and surrounding areas to see if any material bounty may be gained. He doesn't know much about economy, but any druid worth their  salt would know that Gaea can provide for them in every way.

Thus, he is confident that there are likely things in the area or from the corpse that may be worth gathering.

Verbannt licked a drop of the Owlbear's blood off his knife, and then made a face and spat it upon the ground.

"Never have I seen such a thing."

He said, shaking his head.

"I would still try and skin it, if we have the time to wait?"

Spark was relieved when the beast fell, but he didn't loosen his grip on the mace, nor drop his concentration on the effect he was holding as he peered from whence the beast had come. "Nor I, but I wonder if there is a lair close by," he paused for a moment in apprehension. "Or perhaps a mate?"

he kept ready in case they were attacked again. "Perhaps we should investigate the surroundings?"

For the dead animal it would be a medicine check to make sure it is dead. I used your first roll for that. You got it easily the creature is dead without a doubt. As for the environ check it would be perception which you do get advantage on thanks to bear form.

Verbannt let out a grunt of disgust.

"I am... the pelt is too damaged, and I have only made it worse."

He wiped his carving knife clean on the snow, and sheathed it as he stood.

"I don't know if the meat is safe to eat, either. Let us keep moving."

Owl is meat, bear is meat and Boneclaw was used to eating roadkill, how bad could the meat be?
He pecked at the corpse.

GMs, does Santio have any experience/wisdom/assistance carving up yon beasty?
~ rolled 22 using 1d20+4.  Survival.
He has no knowledge about harvesting for medicinal or magical purposes, just Survival needs.

"Let us be on our way then."

Verbannt said, his hour long attempt at salvaging a clean pelt unsuccessful. He looked disappointed, or angry, it was always hard to tell on his goblinoid features.

During the hour Lukas was carving flesh, Tidelan was taking a rest in his beast form, healing it up and recharging his spent magical wild shape.

By the time his rest ended, his form vanished, making the natural healing more or less pointless in hindsight.

He stood up, and said, "I agree. Let us continue."

OOC - Used beast form's hit dice, and regained wild shapes. At full health with full resources.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:03, Sat 03 Apr 2021.

Galenna finished scribbling on her map, then rolled it up and tucked it away. She straightened her clothes then said, "Right." and with that started leading the group towards the direction of their destination for the day (North).
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:43, Mon 05 Apr 2021.

During that past hour, Santio had managed to salvage some quantity of meat from the beast, which the team could cook up that night for dinner.

When the expedition was ready to leave, so too was Santio.

PM

Santio took his place among the travelling company, and continued on with them ... keeping his senses peeled.

He'd carved enough supple meat from the owlbear to make for a nice meal that night;  with any left over cooked strips taken the next day as snacks for their travel.
That still left a lot of meat and scavengable material for the forest itself.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:37, Wed 07 Apr 2021.

With Galenna surrounded by her guard she directs them to the right trail. After having two bouts of animal attacks of some sort, the group was now was a bit more aware of their surroundings, but as the day went on their travels seemed to go without any further interruptions. Soon they found the sun starting to set and the time to set up camp was upon them.

"I can attempt to find us a suitable place to settle for the night", Santio offered.

If Galenna approved, Santio would speed out into the local surrounds.
He was fleet of foot, even among the underbrush, faster than most; and seemed very comfortable and competent in these woodland settings.
- rolled 19 using 1d20+4.  Survival skill to find a suitable camp site.

"It'd be appreciated, Santio. Thank you." Galenna smiled at him.

I am guessing that ...
Soon enough, Santio had located a worthy location ... out of the way, and out of sight, yet easier to watch over by one of us on guard than be seen itself.

It even provided a small place where someone with skill could create a small cooking fire, without it being easily evident.

Verbannt did not challenge Santio, and in truth was pleased with the choice of campsite the small man picked. He set his heavy pack down upon a rock, and began unpacking his tent.

"We will need to set a watch."

He said, though to most it was obvious.

"I will take the first cycle, who is to go second?"

Without looking to see who answered, he began the process of setting up the heavy canvas.

Boneclaw raised his claw in response to Lukas' question and began to clear away snow and debris to make a more comfortable spot for his sleeping gear.

Spark surveyed the campsite as well and started the work of gathering firewood. At the mention of guard duty, he shrugged his shoulders. "I can take a few hours active watch, just tell me when and I'll power back up, I don't actually sleep at all, but I have to power down so my body can regenerate."

After collecting a good amount of wood and helping get a fire going, he found a spot where he could rest with his back against a tree, and where he would be able to see everyone else.

Tidelan watched Spark closely as he spoke. His curiosity and wariness wasn't veiled much at all, and it was all showing up on his face.

Afterwards, his face slightly distorted in a few moments of clear internal tumultuous conflict before it settled and he exhaled heavily.

He gave a friendly nod to Spark, and continued on with his preparations of setting up his tent and bedroll. Seemingly accepting the differences between men made of flesh and one made of metal.

"Power down?"

The words were known to him, but he did not understand how they were being used.

"Do you dream?"

The question sprung unbidden to his thoughts, and had escaped out his lips before he had time to capture it. Such was not his way, he rarely spoke without first weighing the weight of the words, but the thought was simply too close to the source of his own woes for him to contain it.

Spark smiled, not at all disturbed by his companion's questions or hesitations to what he recognised were strange concepts. "No, I don't dream like in the sense a human would." He didn't presume to know how other races functioned, as humans were the only ones he had talked to about this.

"Although I did hear a rumour once, from a passing merchant that he had once known one of my kind and he could describe seeing the most wondrous and at the same time disturbing sights in his mind after he had taken a particularly nasty hit and gone down."

The warforged shrugged his metal shoulders. "I don't think I'd like to test that hypothesis, at least not voluntarily." He gave a small chuckle at the notion of being purposefully knocked unconscious in the name of science.

Once settled in the campsite, and as his fellows chatted and helped out by collecting firewood and such, Santio got the fire started.
He kept it to a minimum, and controlled the smoke ... but it was enough to cook the meat he’d harvested from that Beary-Owly beast; which he’d cut into strips for easy cooking and consumption.

Verbannt finished setting up his tent, and pulled out strips of salted and dried venison to heat over the flames.

"I had considered myself well traveled, but I have never seen or heard such sights as when I came here. It is almost enough to make me wish to travel to one of those Northern cities, though I have heard my kind are not taken to kindly in the North."

“Then go with friends”, Santio shrugged.  It seemed logical to him:  with friends, comes protection.

“Why do you waste preserved meats, that will last long, when fresh meat is available?” he asked.
“This will only last a few days,” he said, offering some fresh strips, “and tastes much better”.


Sorry folks, looking back, I hadn't made it clear:   Santio has harvested enough meat for everyone here for dinner tonight, and anything left over can be carried for snacking on tomorrow.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:45, Sun 11 Apr 2021.

The Bugbear smiled, a strange expression on his face, and accepted the Owlbear meat.

"My thanks, Santio."

Santio's cooked meat strips were available to all.  And between them, they all likely had (or could quickly forage) some vegetable and fruit supplies to go along with it.


Once dinner was done, Santio pulled from his travel pack a Dragonchess board game, and set it up on a nearby flat log or piece of ground.   Then, he sat quietly, studying the board. Eventually, he looked up and asked if "Anyone care to join me?"

Tidelan gratefully took and ate the fresh meat as rare as he could cook it. He shuddered in delight at the great taste and droplets of red that flowed forth from the onceflesh.

Afterwards, he took a single glance at the unfamiliar game, before shaking his head. "I do not know this game. It looks to be a game of much planning, which is not a skill of mine. Also, I am too tired to learn such things."

He adds with only a hint of hesitation, "Sorry, friend Santio."

After triple checking to make sure Galenna's nightly preparations were sufficient, and that her sleeping position would be in the center of the campsite, to maximize security, Tidelan went to rest with the knowledge he would soon wake up for his watch shift.

As he drifted off, he spoke quietly but surprisingly not particularly more softly, "Stay keen... friends..."

He smiled and the tension left his body when he said that word... he muttered something in Farradi under his breath, but it was too quiet to hear.

Spark politely declined the offer of food. "Thank you, but the effort would be wasted on me, I'm afraid. I don't eat or drink anything." He pondered the statement for a second before adding, "perhaps with the exception of some oil and some elixirs to keep me healthy."

Eyeing the chess pieces he would have furrowed his brows if he had any. "Those look familiar," his voice trailed off, as it usually did when Spark was confronted by something that stirred a memory, or perhaps it was a false memory, something his neural pathways had constructed from a passing conversation heard months or years before.

"I wouldn't mind having a try at a game."

He sat and spent a little while trying out some moves and getting a basic introduction to the rules before resigning to the inevitable fate of a loss. "I would appreciate learning more of this game, it seems a fine way to keep the mind and fine motor skills sharp."

With the evening's socialising coming to a close, Spark moved to his designated resting place and settled in for the night, keeping his eyes and ears open, but otherwise powering down.

Boneclaw pecked at the owlbear meat Santio had prepared. Warm meat was a bit weird, not quite as gamey as rotting meat and with less added ingredients like grubs and flies. Meat was best served cold after a week or two of air exposure but he'd gotten used to eating it warm and cooked since he'd left the nest. Since it was hard to see far in the dark Boneclaw relied on shield and dagger for the watch.

After the meat was eaten and the games were played everyone settled in for the night with Boneclaw and Lukas staying keen for watch. Time passed and those who were resting rested soundly, but soon enough, after a peaceful watch, it was time to wake the next person for their turn. Santio was next to watch as the group rested.

Anyone who wanted raw or less-cooked meat need only have said so; Santio is not adamant about cooking it all

Once settled, Santio got what rest he could during the night ... serving his watch when the time came.

As Santio's turn came he settled into position. The human was on watch on his own and without any sort of dark vision to aid him, but still he sat alert waiting for anything. Time passed and nothing came soon making it time for the last watch. Santio went to wake the last group up then returned to his own bed. As Spark and Tidelan arose to take their turn for watch they got comfortable in their new positions. The night was peaceful, quiet, and seemed deceivingly gentle, but the two knew better for this was still the Rimewood and they remained on guard for anything. It wasn't long before the sun started to rise and with it a new day came for their journey to continue onward.
Each of you gets 40xp.

In the morning, Tidelan crawled out of his bedroll in his tent, and began unpacking his portion of the camp.

Then, he was ready to set off for another day. Today, he planned to march in front like usual, but he wanted to have Galenna in the middle of their group, hopefully flanked by the others.

Verbannt was up early, dissembling his tent and packing his gear.

"I should have brought my wolves."

He said as he finished, shouldering the heavy pack he bore.

"Though I know not if they are fully trained, and I would not see them wounded. Let us be on our way."

Sorry guys you each get 60xp for the spider fight and 140xp for the owlbear. Total 200xp.

Tidelan listens to Lukas' early-morning mutterings, and briefly hms and hawS to himself.

"I did not know you have started to make hounds of wolves... I am very excited to hear more and maybe to see more, at some time" Tidelan says earnestly.

---

This message was last edited by the player at 14:40, Thu 15 Apr 2021.

As morning came, Spark was happy they hadn't been assailed in the dark. He took a moment to reflect on the turnings of the great cogs and felt renewed in the sense that everything had a purpose, and whatever one did, the only way was forward in time.

"Trained wolves sounds... interesting." Spark nodded cautiosly.

Welcome to lvl 4!
18:07, Today: Spark rolled 4 using 1d8.  Hit points.

Spark chooses new spells for the day
Spark activates Blessing of the Forge to cause his mace to become a +1 weapon, his AC drops to 19.

"You have heard some part of it in my naming, Tidelan, when I fought Brohm of Clan Stonehelm. It is how I have busied myself when I have not been hunting and raiding for Governor Erret Smith. I found a pack of four, and with Beastlore spoke their tongue. They agreed to let me hunt with them, and in our ranging we brought down a Dire Wolf and an Ogre. After that, they accepted my will. Once I have mastered them, it is my intent to seek to do the same with their larger kin."

He beat a path through the snow in Tidelan's wake, his large feet driving the snow flat so that the expedition leader would have less difficulty keeping pace.

With Galenna surrounded by the group, they continued their journey through the Rimewood. All went smooth until the sun reached its peak in the sky for, almost as if timed, the moment the sun reached its full height the group heard a low growl from a small distance away coming from a white tiger. Before the group had time to react, however, out from behind the trees closer to the group another white tiger pounced at Spark. It missed and landed behind him instead. Everyone please roll me initiative.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

20:55, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 24 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative.

rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

Yes'm! (or yessir?)

01:17, Today: Tidelan Wavyrus rolled 11 using 1d20.  initiative.

Boneclaw rolled 19 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Spark let out a shout of surprise and warning as he felt more than saw the animal come toward him, and luckily he managed to evade the attack.

15:11, Today: Spark rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	24
2.	Boneclaw	19
3.	Santio	17
4.	Spark	14
5.	Enemies
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	11
7.	Galenna Keenbellow	6

Alright that's our initiative folks. First round actions please. Tidelan you can wait until after the enemies post if you want.
And it's yes'm. Sir would be Conspirator.

Verbannt's bushy eyebrows raised high, his expression wary but excited.

"A cat of the craigs."

He said, with no small amount of admiration in his voice. Then his form was rippling and shifting, the air filled with the sounds of muscles tearing and bones snapping. Where before had stood Verbannt, suddenly an enormous brown dire wolf was hurtling across the snow. He did not sink his jaws into the animal, instead harrying its flank until his companions drew near. Only then did he attempt to savage the creature's hind legs, attacking when it was distracted. It proved far too agile, easily evading his assault.

Bonus: Wild Shape into a Dire Wolf
Move: Move to O and P 10
Action: Miss

23:20, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 10 using 2d20+5 ((1,4)).
This message was last edited by the player at 06:21, Sat 17 Apr 2021.

Hoping that Lukas and Tidelan can handle the forward threat, Santio quickly spins into action towards the rear threat.
As always, his quarterstaff spins and whirls, while Santio himself pivots and springs ... the two resembling a whirling dervish of wood, elbows and feet.

Move to O7

- rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Attack.
     - rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Quarterstaff Damage.
- rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Attack.
     - rolled 5 using 1d4+3.  Unarmed Damage.

~ PATIENT DEFENCE: spend 1 ki point to take the Dodge action as a bonus action on your turn.
When you take the Dodge action, you focus entirely on avoiding attacks. Until the start of your next turn, any attack roll made against you has disadvantage if you can see the attacker, and you make Dexterity saving throws with advantage.
- rolled 2d20 with rolls of 18 12.  Dexterity Save (+5 Dex and Prof) with Advantage  = 23
This message was last edited by the player at 00:02, Mon 19 Apr 2021.

Spark was grateful for his shield as he muttered a quick prayer before striking at the cat that almost crushed him.

Move: None
Bonus Action: Cast Searing Smite (The next time you hit a creature the attack deals an extra 1d6 fire damage to the target and causes the target to ignite in flames)
Action: Attack E2 with mace

16:04, Today: Spark rolled 15,7 using 1d20+7,1d6+5.  atk / dmg.
16:05, Today: Spark rolled 5 using 1d6.  Fire damage from Searing Smite (Con save DC 11).

Boneclaw waited for Tidelan to ready his attack and then acted right before him.
Farewell beast, may you find justice on the other side for this is the world of the wild where  death reigns and we are its enforcers today, Boneclaw formulated his unspoken prose in honor of Kelemvor. He added The world can suffer the loss of another cat, you bird killing monstrosity. And prepared the big cat for death.

(Delayed action to step within range, cast Path to the Grave and step back out of range. creature has vulnerability on Tidelan's first attack).
This message was last edited by the player at 01:29, Sun 18 Apr 2021.

(OOC: Narrator don't feel you need to wait on me, I'll post after the enemy does)

Round 1

Lukas Verbannt's already big form grew even larger as the once bugbear got to his new paws and ran to flank the ferocious white and black striped cat. Once he thought the big cat's attention was elsewhere he tried to strike at it's hind legs, but missed.
Lukas Verbannt's Wild Shaped into a dire wolf and moved to O10-P11.

Boneclaw waited patiently for the right time to attack.
Boneclaw readies Path to the Grave for just before Tidelan Wavyrus's turn.

Santio moved swiftly to the tiger before him and struck at it hard. The first attack landed right on target. It was the second, however, that missed entirely.
Santio moved to O7 and attacked Enemy 1 dealing a total of 10 damage to it.

Spark muttered a quick and clear prayer to himself, then struck forward with his mace. It lands bashing the big cat squarely on its head. It can be heard roaring in response the pain it received as it catches fire.
Spark casts Searing Smite and attacks with his mace at Enemy 2 dealing a total of 12 damage to it. It is now set on fire.

Enemy 1 growls at Santio, him having been the one to damage it, and takes a bite at him. Fortunately for Santio, the monk was too fast for the tiger.
Enemy 1 bites at Santio, but misses.

Enemy 2 eyes lite up with terror as its fur is set ablaze. In panic it starts to try and run away from Spark giving him a clear opening to attack it once more.
At the beginning of Enemy 2's turn it failed its save and takes 6 fire damage. In panic it will try and run away. Spark gets an attack of opportunity on Enemy 2.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	24
2.	Boneclaw	19
3.	Santio	17
4.	Spark	14
5.	Enemies
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	11
7.	Galenna Keenbellow	6

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:50, Mon 19 Apr 2021.

Seeing how the closer enemy was already more damaged and had more foes around it, Tidelan made
a split second decision to entrust Galenna's safety to her other protectors, and to go aid Santio, whom was dealing with the other hostile alone.

Noticing that Boneclaw had readied up some major magic to aid in his lethality, and keeping in mind how things were turning out in their favor, Tidelan decided he would not need to expend any of his valuable energy, and just use his basic powers for now.

With a loud sound of wood colliding with wood, the warrior of nature bashes his shield against the tree to gain momentum as he takes a handful of great strides towards his target, his tendons in his legs immediately going rigid with the sudden exertive stress.

With an unguarded, two-handed overhanded strike intended to be a finishing move, his spear pierces down towards his foe as Boneclaw's curse materializes on it.

In a rare moment of uncertainty however, Tidelan decides that this beast may be hardier than he thinks, and decides to allow the rage of the world to burn in his blood...

His previously rigid veins now swell almost to bursting.

Move: H7 to N9
Bonus: Rage
Action: Attack recklessly two-handed

quote:

21:43, Today: Tidelan Wavyrus rolled 22 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 16,18.  spear attak.

21:44, Today: Tidelan Wavyrus rolled 7 using 1d8+4 with rolls of 3.  spear damage.

That is a 22 to hit for 14 magical piercing damage

This message was deleted by the player at 02:48, Tue 20 Apr 2021.

Spark swung his mace again as the animal suddenly exposed its flank to him.

Reaction: Opportunity attack on E2

15:02, Today: Spark rolled 22,10 using 1d20+7,1d6+5.  atk / dmg.

Boneclaw summoned a magical weapon from thin air, representing his master and benefactor Kelemvor, a bright shimmering scythe that hung before him before it was sent into battle and swung at the beast that was still fighting. At the moment it flew at the big cat Boneclaw nocked an arrow and let it fly at the creature fleeing on fire.
"Have at thee!", he shouted in a baritone voice not his own.

Boneclaw rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  spell attack (Spiritual Weapon).
Boneclaw rolled 7 using 1d8+5.  dmg.
Boneclaw rolled 22 using 1d20+5 ((17)).
Boneclaw rolled 10 using 1d6+5 ((5)).

Round 1 Cont.

Spark sees his opportunity and takes it striking at the cat who he had lit ablaze. His mace hits the great cat in it side taking a chunk as he pulls it back. The tiger cries out in pain, but keeps running to the best of its ability.
Spark lands his attack of opportunity and deals 10 damage to Enemy 2. Enemy 2 is now 25ft off the map running directly away from Spark.

Tidelan Wavyrus swiftly charges for the tiger ahead of him. He swings wildly, but still manages to hit and hit hard at that. He strikes leaving a gash in Enemy 1's shoulder, but it still stands.
Tidelan Wavyrus moves to N9 and attacks, dealing a total of 14 damage to Enemy 1.

Galenna Keenbellow stays close to Spark not wanting to get any closer to the tigers if possible.

That concludes Round 1. Round 2 actions please.

Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	24
2.	Boneclaw	19
3.	Santio	17
4.	Spark	14
5.	Enemies
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	11
7.	Galenna Keenbellow	6

('ll just put this here since it appears I acted a bit too fast)

Boneclaw summoned a magical weapon from thin air, representing his master and benefactor Kelemvor, a bright shimmering scythe that hung before him before it was sent into battle and swung at the beast that was still fighting. At the moment it flew at the big cat Boneclaw nocked an arrow and let it fly at the creature fleeing on fire.
"Have at thee!", he shouted in a baritone voice not his own.

Boneclaw rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  spell attack (Spiritual Weapon).
Boneclaw rolled 7 using 1d8+5.  dmg.
Boneclaw rolled 22 using 1d20+5 ((17)).
Boneclaw rolled 10 using 1d6+5 ((5)).

OOC: No problem. You weren't the only one ^_- and thank you.

Verbannt took advantage of the distraction, savaging the cat's hindquarters and seeking to pull its legs out from underneath it.


Oops!

19:14, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 17 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Bite with advantage.

19:15, Today: Lukas Verbannt rolled 11 using 2d6+3.  Damage.

Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: (2d6 + 3) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone

As it looked like his comrades had the last cat well in hand, Spark remained where he was and held vigil close to Galenna, keeping his eyes open and his weapon ready.

Round 2
Move: None
Action: Ready an action if an enemy comes within 5ft.

I’d please like to hold my post till the Narrator defines whether Lukas’s attack knocks the cat prone.
So that I know how to make my roll

Lukas Verbannt attacks at the tigers hindquarters, landing his hit, but does not manage to pull its legs out from underneath it.
Lukas Verbannt attacks and deals 11 damage to Enemy 1.


Boneclaw summoned a great scythe adjacent to the remaining tiger. It swung down with great force nearly cutting the creature in two and before Boneclaw could so much as notch his arrow Enemy 1 had fallen. Boneclaw turned and notched his arrow anyways at the already fleeing enemy. He released it and watched it soar as it hit directly its mark. The burning tiger fell to the ground and the fire slowly went out.
Boneclaw attacks and deals 7 damage to Enemy 1 killing it. Then turns and deals 10 damage to Enemy 2. Both enemies are dead!


Map is as follows:

DE = Dead Enemy
E = Enemy
T = Trees
Character Initials for placement.
Sp = Spark
Sa = Santio

	Iniative Order:
1.	Lukas Verbannt	24
2.	Boneclaw	19
3.	Santio	17
4.	Spark	14
5.	Enemies
6.	Tidelan Wavyrus	11
7.	Galenna Keenbellow	6

Well done guys! You each get 80xp!