Our four young Triplefang heroes have tasted adventure and gained some very important experience.  They've seen a strange new land and rescued a captured champion.  With the riches they gathered they have geared up and are ready for a new adventure.

The champion of Goldenpoint spoke of The Tome of Legends, a powerful artifact that can transform our heroes into living legends.  They will need to travel past the edge of the Triplefang lands to Rankor Heights, the capital of the Ferisedan and somehow convince their leader, Proctor Limon, to part with the artifact.  Luckily, he does not know what the book is, or its true power.

Meanwhile, Triplefang troops led by Rolf and Vidar Triplefang march to protect Gollag from future troglodyte raids.  Once secure the Triplefang plan to claim Gollag for their own and send craftsmen and settlers to make use to the area's natural resources.

The Ferisedan fishing village of Kammarra is a 5 day ride from Volge via the Triplefang village of Crim.  You can cover ground about twice as fast now that you are mounted.  The cart has been loaded with your extra equipment (camping should be a little more comfortable now), 40 pounds of fresh food, and two caged falcons to send short messages back to Volge if neccessary.  You are also accompanied by Moonlight and Snow's two new guard dogs.  Set out when you are ready.

Snow shows up on the day agreed upon to depart home for their next adventure.  She's feeling more competant and better equiped this time around.  It's a small comfort.  As she glances back, she knows she's already going to miss home.  The live stock, and Stupid should help ease the work around the farm for Snow's parents, but they're moving on in years, and Snow still worries for them.



She's dressed in leather armor that still feels a little stiff and in need of breaking in, and looking alot more competant since you last saw her.  She still has a good bit of stuff that she's carrying around, but most of it is in Midnight's saddle bags, or in the Cart.

Midnight lingers near by, and Snow takes the quiet moment to play with Mutt and Jeff.  A stuffed leather ball is tossed around as they play fetch with her as she waits for her cousins to show up.

Holly slips into the village with Dun and Moonlight in tow, acknowledging those she knows, and talking a while with some of the youngsters that are about. She quickly finds Snow, and welcomes her cousin with a hug, whilst wary of the dogs. She notices the Dun is a bit wary, but has to smile at Moonlight who is simply ignoring them, and checking out Midnight.

"Well met cousin. You look like you have taken your time off to put it to good use. Have you any new tricks and magic to aid us? I have been working with Dun and Moonlight, and enjoying the wilds."

The time apart has given Snow time to settle a little.  Shes dressed a little nicer, and looks a little more confident and sure about herself.

"Elana been working on me for stuff.  It was nice just to be home for a bit and help around the farm.  I've bought a few dogs... Mutt", she points to a mixed breed dog of indeterminable pedigree, "... and Jeff", She points to the other dog who's sitting and scrathing his ear at the moment.

"I left Stupid at the farm to help with seeding.  They seem pretty happy with the livestock."

Snow was always a little prissy about her appearance, continuing that trend she seems to be experimenting with her hair more these days, teasing it out and tying it up in slightly more elaborate styles.  It's definitely not something the average triplefang does, but it does look pretty on her.

"The boys drink too much and oversleep or something?  Where's Glumr?  He's the one that was chomping at the bit to be off and away to be the first to pen his name in this book.", Snow eyes the cart full of food.

"At least we wont have to rely on Glumr's hunting this time out."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:14, Tue 08 June 2010.

In reply to Snow (msg #4):

Mord rides up to meet with Holly and Snow.  Gone is the ragged armor of nappy hides and his oversized spiked club.  Smooth metal-studded leather and vicious two-handed axe have taken their place. He is also carrying an unusual looking longbow.  Between the rigorous training and heavy feasting/drinking he has been doing, he looks a little worn out to be honest.  But, he is very upbeat and greats them both with a big smile full of joy and hearty hugs that make them both groan.

Snow gives Mord an affectionate hug, "Well met cousin you look well, i suppose we'll be kept waiting till Glumr's mum can dress him proper.", Snow laughs.  Teasing Glumr always seems to make her feel better.

"I wonder how livid he might be if we went and got the book and penned our names in with out him.  The look on his face might actually make it worthwhile."

Holly enjoys the hug from Mord, and tries not to cling on for too long. Turning away and calling out to Moonlight, she hides her face and the flush that had appeared. Finally turning back at the mention of Glumr's face at not being first in the book, she looks around to see if he has arrived late.

"It will be good to get going again. I have been given some good camping places along the way down to Crim, and good hunting grounds for Glumr, so hopefully it will be a less arduous task in getting there."

Turning back to Mord she asks, "Are you not sorry you aren't with Rolf and Vidar and the others around Gollag?"

Snow thumps Holly playfuly, "HOLLY!  If Mord doesnt come, it means we'll have to rely on Glumr to protect us... or will it be us protecting him?"

The sounds of a horse approaching fill the clearing.  A dark stranger on a white appaloosa approaches the Triplefang adventurers.

The stranger has a wide brimmed hat on which hides his face.  He is dressed in leathers and gear of dark green and brown, allowing him to blend well with the forest.  His dark cloak around his shoulders blows gently behind him.  A quiver of arrows and long bow across his back, along with the curved sword on his side show him to be an adventurer ready for the road.

A small glow and wisps of smoke trail from under the hat as he approaches.  When get gets near he dismounts, ruffling the horse's mane behind it's ears and running hand down the horses muzzle.

The stranger gets closer and lift's his hat back a bit. There's a flash of blue eyes and a grin that can only be Glumr's.

"Good to see you my friends.  I hope I didnt keep you waiting too long." Glumr says with a smile, but something about him makes him seem somber, and not quite as happy go lucky as he once was.  He smiles at Snow. "You've changed your looks cousin.  As lovely as a sunrise I might say."

Glumr has a small rolled cigar in his mouth, filling the air with it's sweet smoke.  "This is my new friend Bella" Glumr says to the group.  "She's been my closest friend in these past days"  Glumr says, not mentioning the point at which she bit him.

He has a serious look on him.  "I'm planning on an adventure to obtain the book of legends.  I feel it will be a difficult quest, but if we succeed it will bestow upon us abilities to make us legendary.  With these new gifts I plan on to rid our lands of the evil blights we have upon us.  Will you follow me?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Tue 08 June 2010.

"OUCH!", Holly says, with a smile, and rubs her arm as if it really hurt. "You been practicing that?", she adds before laughing. "You're right of course. We couldn't do with having to babysit Glumr without Mord around as well to protect us!"

Holly for a half second thinks Glumr might be talking about his smoke, and then she realises that he has named his horse. She is almost tempted to walk up to the horse, and offer her her sympathies, but resists the urge. There will be plenty of time later.



"No disrespect, but I won't follow you Glumr. I'll happily walk besides you though, and see where being legends takes us! Hopefully being a legend will not just make us a legendary target!" With that, Holly offfers her hand on the deal.

"Someone is having dellusional dreams of grandeur.
 I think Glumr's taken up bardic acting talking and dressing like that.
 No one really talks like that Glumr, who are you trying to impress?"

Snow gives Mord a doubtful look, "I thought you two were boozing and partying together, is Glumr sober or did he suffer a head injury or something?"

The first day out is a chaotic mess.  Proud of their new status, and brimming with a sense of importance and excitement our young Triplefang heroes race off in a generally southernish direction.  There is no group cohesion and they often find themselves barely within view of each other.  Making matters worse, three inexperienced riders on new mounts badly misjudge their pace.  Glumr charges far out ahead with Mord (the only one with any real long-distance riding experience) left constantly trying to rein in his fellow travelers and Holly having to gather the cart horse that wandered off on its own during the day.  When she does, Moonlight goes into a panic.  Something is seriously wrong.  She scans all around her to find the source of her friend's agitation.  Squinting, she spots three wildcats on a nearby rise.  It's nothing to be alarmed about.  The white, tan, and grey furred wildcats are common in these areas.  It's well known that these wildcats give humans a wide birth.  Holly calms Moonlight.  They're not a threat...  right?  Meanwhile, Snow's new guard dogs get too playful with her horse and spook it.  The horse bucks Snow to the ground and runs off as Mutt and Jeff lick her and bounce around.  Stern words are issued to the canines.  Snow dusts herself off and goes after Midnight, glad that her cousins were too scattered for anyone to have seen that little situation.

The party regroups, having covered much less distance than expected on their first day out.  A good campsite is found and Snow cooks a hot evening meal.  For the moment, egos are set aside and everyone agrees that they need a plan for the next day's travel.  You are still two and a half days ride (at Mord's proper pace) from Crim.  You could reach Goldenpoint with an abrupt turn north-northeast and a long day of riding.  Glumr somberly mentions that his uncle's pastures are near your campsite.  This quiets the group for a while.  Everyone had heard whispers in Volge that something bad happen there.  Glumr's mother has been inconsolable all week.  No one quite has words for the moment.  The silence is broken by a soft tune from the floating eye that cheers everyone a bit and allows an awkward time to pass.


Do you guys want to post a watch tonight?  What's the plan for tomorrow?

"I think it best we set watch"  Glumr says to his companions as he readies the food stuffs to be put away somewhere safe where animals cant get them.  "Goblins have been terrorizing these lands"  Glumr spits in disgust from the hated goblins.  "I think it's not safe for us to be without one.   Holly and Snow, one of you take first watch and the other take last.  Mord can take the second, and I'll take third.  That way you ladies can be fresh to draw on your gifts when we need them."

Glumr takes note of everyones reactions expecting a disagreement.  Thinking none are coming, he starts to put the food stuffs away; getting lost in his thoughts about tragedy that had befallen his family's farm and the dangers in these lands.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:26, Wed 09 June 2010.

"Why do we need to set a watch?  We're still in Triplefang lands arent we?  Mutt and Jeff are light sleepers and will start barking if approached by strangers, unless i tell them to heel."

Snow tosses her pets bits of dried beef for them to gnaw on after stewing it a little to soften it.

"It's not as if were in any rush to go anywhere, we've waited this long to travel to this book, we can set aside some time to check in on your uncle tommorow Glumr.  I've heard somethings gone wrong out there and i'd like to see if we can help first hand."

Snow's a little disappointed that no one wore her cloaks let alone mentioned it.  She shrugs the thought off after a bit though, "If we have to set watches i'll take first.  I'm not tired, and i have Mutt and Jeff to keep me up so i dont mind."

Snow takes out her blank book, and starts to keep a diary of the days events, observing distance and direction traveled, and the days highlights of falling off the horse, and sightings of wild cats in her journal.  While that's drying she takes a blank sheet of parchment and starts to pen in a map of sorts, starting with home in the center, and marking a compass of sorts for 'north', she starts to sketch in what she knows about the lands based on their last adventure and this one.  She'll mark points of interest on the map with a little rune, and and notes a 'key' to the symbols in the back of her spellbook, for reference, in case she forgets.

"The reason I'm concerned is that my uncle's farm is not far from here."  Glumr says solemnly.  "Goblins butchered everyone there.  My aunt and uncle, the children, the farm hands."  Glumr is obviously upset.  He cared a lot for his extended family and the pain of their loss is prevalent on his face.

He grabs a pinch of leaf from his belt pouch and rolls a small bidi. "Goblins are a sneaky bunch.  I dont want to trust my life to a sleepy dog.  No offence."   Glumr shrugs and lights his smoke.

OCC - What cloaks was that in reference to Snow?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:23, Wed 09 June 2010.

Snow shrugs, "I'll take first watch.  Who's ever on watch can rouse Mutt and Jeff if theres trouble."

Snow has her activities planned, and will pass time bonding some more with Mutt and Jeff after she's done with her scribling.  She notes Glumr's report in her book, she's still curious about swinging by to see the damage, but she wont mention it again since Glumr seems so upset.  Is that why he's grown so... serious of late?  Snow reflects on things and decides to cut Glumr slack and feels alittle sad.  She pets mutt on the head and scratches Jeff behind the ear to help console herself.  She feels less lonely with the two of them keeping her company.

The old watch schedule was Holly / Glumr and Rolf / Mord and Vidar / Snow

So if we swap Holly and Snow, and Mord and Glumr it looks like this now:  Snow / Mord / Glumr / Holly.   Good?

[EDIT]  Glumr wanted third watch.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:27, Wed 09 June 2010.

Holly spots an opportunity, and moves over to Glumr. "I know it is difficult to talk about, but where abouts was your uncle's farm?"

Holly prefers to take the first watch, as she needs to prepare her spells for the coming day at the attuned hour. Setting the dun into a hobble so she can't go far, Holly suggests they build the fire high so they all can see, "If there is anything more out there than the wildcats, then I'd rather have the chance to see them."

Snow hasnt used any spells so she can sleep whenever, she'd stay up a little even if it's not her watch to jot stuff down and make her map, letting both dry to take her last watch slot.  It works out since she ends up cooking breakfast for people to wake to and if she needs spells, she should get back into that sleep cycle.  She just stays up late tonight to do her thing before bed.

Glumr trys to explain where the farm is in location to their camp is.  He asks Snow to show her journal map so that he can point out where the camp is in relation to everything.

"I have not yet been there.  It's close.  We should make a small detour and see what's left there.  Perhaps we could find some things to aid us in our travels.  It's only about five miles from here."

After the farm discussion, and after the previous experience with the bear, the companions learned to try to camp next to a tree in these grassy lands.  Glumr hoists the food stuffs up into the tree for safe keeping though the night.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:28, Wed 09 June 2010.

Even newer watch schedule:   Holly / Mord / Glumr / Snow

Travel and camping times allow for Snow to make her extra notes without having to cut into her sleep time.

Things have settled down and tomorrow promises to be a better day for our heroes.  It is still rainy season, but this night is warm and clear.  The moon is bright and full.  The fire is high and visibility is excellent for your watches.  Holly notes that Moonlight is still agitated, but there doesn't seem to be anything out of place, and her watch goes uneventfully as does Mord's.
On Glumr's watch there's a loud splashing from a stream near the camp.  He spins around to see what made the noise, arrow drawn and ready.  There are two white furred wildcats between 50 and 100 feet away, looking rather sheepish at having just made such a racket.  On the other hand, they do seem to be running towards the campsite with intent to do harm.

Glumr may act normally.  The wildcats have only partial concealment for the darkness.  Any hit has a 10% miss chance (roll a d100.  1-10 is a miss)
Everyone else may make DC11 listen rolls to wake up (Snow's dogs have +5 to listen and Moonlight has a +4 if Holly would like him to participate in the ensuing combat).  Glumr and anyone who makes their listen roll may make initiative rolls for next round.

Staying up late to do her scribing and thinking she's in safe lands Snow sleeps good, maybe too good.  With a languid stretch she rolls over snuggling closer to the warm embers of the fire as she snoozes.

08:16, Today: Snow rolled 4 using 1d20+3. Snow wakes DC 11
YES~!  A MIGHTY FUMBLE!  I knew there was a reason to get guard dogs.

Mutt and Jeff are another matter.  Glumr might notice Mutt's already been alert and is in a low defensive crouch growling a warning for the cats to stay away.  The growling easily rouses Jeff who pads up beside Mutt to add a low gutteral growl.  Snow hasnt woken to tell them to attack, so unless they actually attack the camp they'll just make a warning growl to try and tell them to move on this is their turf.

08:16, Today: Snow rolled 18 using 1d20+5. Jeff.
08:16, Today: Snow rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Mutt DC 11.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:29, Thu 10 June 2010.

Glumr sees the cats approaching and knows that there's nothing he can do to change their attitudes.  Friend of the animals or not, these cats have eyed for dinner.  He readies his bow and fires at the nearest cat.  His first shot misses the target, but his second flies true and lands in the cat's haunches.

"Wake up! Wake up!" Glumr yells to his friends "Wild cat attack!" Glumr feels bad about fighting two creatures of the natural order, but he would feel worse being their dinner.

Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20+4. Shoot Closest Wild Cat +6 -2   (Miss)
Glumr rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Shoot Closest Wild Cat +6 -2  (Hit?)
Glumr rolled 28 using 1d100. But does it hit in the dark?   (Hit!)
Glumr rolled 7 using 1d8. Deal the hurt!.

[Holly rolled 20, Moonlight rolled 22 for Listen checks]

Her ministrations to Obad-Hai over, Holly rolls into her bedding when her shift is over, glad for a chance to sleep in peace. Yet that sleep is disturbed, and she is quickly awake, her sling in hand as she wonders what has woken her. Certainly something other than Moonlight's vocal alarm. Taking a moment to adjust, she sees the twowildcats, and begins to turn around. "THERE ARE THREE!" she shouts in warning, her call perhaps putting Glumr off his first shot. Slipping a stone into her sling, she whistles Moonlight to her, and he moves quickly to be beside her. Scanning the darkness, and wondering what Moonlight can scent, she hopes to spot any attack from the third wildcat before it is in there midst.

[Holly rolled 19 for Initiative, Moonlight rolled 2. Sling and hoofs are ready]

Mutt and Jeff would probably start barking, aggitated, but not attack till instructed to or the camp is attacked...

Init
----
Holly 19
Glumr 16
dogs 14
eye 12
wildcats 6
Moonlight 3

Neither Mord nor Snow were awoken by the loud, clumsy splashing, but the shouting and commotion does rouse them.  Mord can roll initiative this round and act next round.  Snow can roll initiative and act the round after that.  I need round 1 actions for Holly, Glumr, and the dogs.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....g/wildcat_battle.jpg


Wildcat1 is the injured one.  Mutt is the dog in row 19.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:41, Fri 11 June 2010.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #27):

Mord had just fallen into deep sleep so it takes him a few moments for his eyes to focus and piece together what the commotion is all about.  He will rise with axe in hand and begin to move toward the edge of the campsite closest to the wildcats once he finally "catches up" with the situation.

Mutt and Jeff are guard dogs, they guard.

They will manuver around in the circle of the camp barking loudly to alert the sleepers and make an effort to intimidate the wildcats off, by marking this 'territory' as theirs.

Mutt trots up to J11 (dogs move 40' i believe), and starts barking at the cats.

Jeff starts howling at the moon aggitated and will hold his action.  The first cat that tries to enter the campfire circle will be attacked by Jeff dogs.

"mmhhmmm.... Jeff it's just a house cat leave it alone...", Snow statrts to stir sleepily rubbing her eyes with the palms of her hands, not quite awake.

07:02, Today: Snow rolled 18 using 1d20+5. Intiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:03, Fri 11 June 2010.

Wary that there is likely to be a third cat out there, Holly continues to face away from the seen threat, and searches the darkness for any prowling enemies. Moving to put the fire behind her, Holly relies on Moonlight to protect her back.

[Holly rolled 1d20+4 to spot 3rd cat, result of 21. Moves from G12 to C12.]

Glumr takes aim at the uninjured cat at fires two arrows in rapid succession.  The first hits it's mark, catching the wild cat in the back.  Glumr can see a red stain starting to grow on the cat's haunches.  His second arrow is a near miss, landing in the dirt next to the cat.

Glumr rolled 16 using 1d20+4. Shoot Uninjured wild cat +6 -2.      (HIT)
Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20+4. Shoot Uninjured wild cat again +6 -2. (MISS)
Glumr rolled 26 using 1d100+4. 10% miss?.   (STILL HIT)
Glumr rolled 8 using 1d8. Have more pain!.  (OUCH!)
Glumr rolled 2 using 1d2. Will Second Hit's Arrow Break?  2 = yes 1 = no. (YES)
Glumr rolled 2 using 1d2. Will First Hit's Arrow Break?  2 = yes 1 = no.  (YES)

Having seen a group of 3 wildcats together earlier, Holly wisely scans the area for a third wildcat.  Either it is very well hidden or simply not there.  Holly is satisfied that the two attacking wildcats are the only ones near.

The eye bursts right into the exciting part of battle music he's played before.  It was a big hit with the Triplefang last time.

The Triplefang (including animals) now get +1 to hit and damage rolls.

The wildcats are remarkably swift.  One covers a serious distance to engage Glummr.  The archer had plenty of time to see this attack coming and deftly avoids the lunging bite of the wildcat.  The other wildcat rushes Mutt.  The two of them tussle.  So far the new guard dog is uninjured.

I need Mutt's round 1 attack (he's already moved), and Moonlight's round 1 action.

I also need round 2 actions from Holly, Glumr, and Jeff.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....g/wildcat_battle.jpg

Mutt barks and snaps at the wild cat but doesnt manage to get his teeth to close on fangs.

20:14, Today: Snow rolled 11 using 1d20+2. Doggy Bite.

With the wildcat in the campfire and attacking it's canine companion Jeff will move up and attack the wild cat too.

Jeff has better luck, with the cat's attention on Mutt, he manages to snap his jaws around the cat's leg.

20:16, Today: Snow rolled 20 using 1d20+2. Doggy Bite.
13:12, Today: Snow rolled 4 using 1d4+1. Doggy damage.


forget the damage though, but recalls he has a trip attack too.  (not home so wont be able to check stats anytime soon.)

(Round two the two doggies will pile down to bring one cat down, they've been trained to work together.  Fritz can roll for them, if he needs actions from them for round 2)
This message was last edited by the player at 17:21, Mon 14 June 2010.

Moonlight Round 1 -

Moonlight guards Holly from the approaching cats, rearing up at the last moment to flash his hooves as a warning. With the attacks going elsewhere Moonlight considers his options, and glances over at Holly.

Holly Round 2 -

With the belief that the enemy is now only in front of them, Holly takes a calculated risk and slips her sling back into her belt and draws out her sickle. Turning to face the cats, she considers the distances and how best to help Glumr and Snow's dog. Deciding that she needed to get behind the cats, she moves out into the edge of the firelight, hoping nothing else is out there.

[Holly moves from C13 to F9]

Moonlight Round 2 -

Moonlight sees the cat and Glumr fighting, and decides that that was the immediate threat to Holly. Lowering his head, he charges at the cat, rearing up to attempt to shatter bones with his hoof.

[Moonlight charged Cat 1 moving to D8/9. Moonlight rolled 1d20 for a 6, -2 BAB, +1 Eye, +2 Charge for a 7. Miss.
Moonlight AC of 11 this round.]

Glumr sees the cat pounce and dodges it's attack.  He counters by firing two arrows directly at the beast.  Unfortunately the tussle causes him to fire the first into the dirt at the bests feat and the second glances harmlessly off of the cats pelt. Glumr growls in frustration.

Glumr rolled 13 using 1d20+6. Shoot Cat - Arrow 2 - +6 -2 +1 +1.
Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20. Shoot Cat - Arrow 1 - +6 -2 +1 +1.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:01, Mon 14 June 2010.

I'm going to assume Glumr took a 5 foot step to A8 before firing.  Otherwise you draw an attack of opportunity upon readying the second shot.

Inspired by the eye's energetic music, Jeff bites just hard enough to take down the wildcat.

Jeff did 5 damage not 4.  Don't forget your +1 to damage for eye music.

Wildcat1 leaps onto Glumr's left side and latches its teeth to his arm, threatening to rip off his whole forearm, but Glumr manages to twist away and shake off the wildcat.

Glumr takes 4 points of damage.

Init
----
Holly 19
Snow 18
Glumr 16
Jeff 14
eye 12
wildcat 6
Mutt 6
Mord 3
Moonlight 3

We already have Moonlight's round 2 action.  I need Mutt and Mord's 2nd round action.

I also need Holly, Snow, Glumr, and Jeff's round 3 action.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....g/wildcat_battle.jpg
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:03, Mon 14 June 2010.

Round (2) (?)

Mutt and Jeff snap and bite at the offensive intruder working in tandem to keep the wildcat at bay.

Jeff having drawn blood fades back a little bark and snapping at the wildcat, his bark doing more damage than his bite as he fades back.
15:08, Today: Snow rolled 5 using 1d20+3. Jeff Attack.

Mutt takes advantage of the momentary distraction and lunges in Jaws snapping.
15:08, Today: Snow rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Mutt attack.
(Doggies are small so it the cats would lose the size bonus of thier armor class if they were small, so i think they hit armorclass of 15, which is...good nuff?)

15:13, Today: Snow rolled 6 using 1d4+2. Doggy damage.

Jaws snapp and try and Mutt shakes his head about to try and tear through the cat's flesh...

"OH... were in combat?", Snow shakes her head trying to shake the sleep away and evaluate the situation.

(I think in round one, one had a held action, and the other was a move and hold/attack of opportunity?  What was the movement cost for moving diagnol again?  >.<)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:19, Mon 14 June 2010.

The dogs finished off wildcat2 last round.  Since the other wildcat is more than 40ft away from them I'm not sure what they are attacking.

Moving diagonally costs 15 ft for two squares.  If you must move just one square diagonally it's 10ft, which is a big rip-off.  However, if all you are doing is taking your 5 foot step you can use that to move one square diagonally.  It so much easy with LEGOs.  :-)

The doggies are biting and pawing at the carcass of the dead cat.  They're not bright enough to move on to a different target, with out Snow directing them too.

They bark and howl over the fallen cat feelng pretty pleased about themselves.

Snow
movemet diagnol 30's to D12.
Standard Draw Dagger.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Mon 14 June 2010.

Holly hears the dogs barking and yapping in the background as she moves into attack the other cat. With the cat directly between herself and Glumr, she takes advantage of the exposed flank and strikes with her sickle. Seeing an exposed tendon on the back leg she hooks the blade behind it, and pulls so the blade slides along the area getting best benefit of the shape of the edge. As the blade moves, Holly can feel the tendon give, and smiles at the nice clean cut she has performed.

[Holly moves to C6, to Flank the Cat. Holly rolled Nat 20 for Hit, Nat 20 for Crit, 2(d4+1)for 3+2 = 5 total HP damage, .]
This message was last edited by the player at 11:42, Tue 15 June 2010.

Dont forget to add eye damage!

In reply to Snow (msg #42):

Mord moves to E12 in round 2

Holly should be doing 2D6+2 (sickle does 1D6 plus 1 for eye music, rolled twice for a critical).  I re-rolled the damage for Holly.  The roll was pretty bad (total 6), but still enough to take down the already wounded wildcat.

Snow watches the last cat go down and pauses to catch her breath.

"I suppose i missed the fight, i should have stayed asleep maybe?", Snow walks over to check on Mutt and Jeff, to make sure they're both unharmed.

"Who's a good doggy?", she pets them both affectionately.

"There might still be one more out there." Holly says as a warning, whilst she moves to Moonlight and pats him as a thankyou. Moonlight would prefer a scratch behind his ear and tells her so by dipping his head under her arm. Holly gets the message and scratches there as well, before leading him back towards her bedding.

"Fresh... meat for breakfast... and maybe some nice pelts.", Snow looks around to make sure the area is secure and theres not a third one around before cutting out a few pieces of the dead cat to feed Mutt and Jeff, it's only right they did kill the damn thing.

"Everyone's okay then?  Glumr are you hurt?"

In reply to Snow (msg #47):

"You guys killed them before I even got close to one... next time I think I will just sleep in" Mord says with a wide grin

"I think we have learnt a few things in our little trip to the pyramid, and in the last month. That and we are better prepared and equipped. But I think we'll still need you awake Mord, in case there are every more than two of anything!"

Snow is pleased that her new pets are becoming useful, and even happier that they both seem unharmed.  She stifles a yawn, "So...i can go back to sleep now?  How long till my watch?", Snow didnt feel rested at all.

Glumr slings his bow over his shoulder and grins.  "Not in the least." he says to Snow.  "poor cats eyed the wrong folk for dinner tonight, eh?"

By "Not in the least" Glumr means "Yes, one of the wildcats took a big chomp outta my arm."

He has 4 points of damage.


Glumr and Holly can both make DC 15 Search rolls.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:40, Wed 16 June 2010.

Doggies have a 5 spot/listen and alertness, Snow lets them wander the camp in case that third wildcat shows up.  Snow's preoccupied drawing the wild cats closer to the fire to contemplate skinning for pelts, and usefulness of wild cat meat for stew or something for breakfast.

Holly takes a quick look around, but finds nothing to grab her attention in the dim light from the fire. She wonders what the cats were after in making the noise, but decides its best to leave that til the morning light.

"Glumr, can you remember what is out where the cats came from? A sound waked me, that and Moonlight, and I wonder what the cats were doing so close to our fire?"

Providing fresh meat and pretty pelts i think?

The dogs had at one wildcat pretty good, but when Snow got the notion to drag the other wildcat to the fire for butchering, she noticed a mark on the wildcat's hide.  It looks something like a brand and is shaped somewhat like this

@<

There's a non-uniform spiral with two rays jetting out.  It's hard to tell which way the brand-like mark should be oriented.

"uhmm... uh...", Snow looks up, "I hope these werent someones pet... They have markings on them.  They mean anything to anyone?"

Snow leaves the carcass alone for the cousins to review.  She has plenty to do with the ruined one.

"Means nothing to me...." Glurm says  "My arm is pretty tore up.  Kind hurts but I think I'll manage." He stretches it back and forth a bit but thinks there's no permanent damage.

I some how missed my damage. It's what happens when you post from a phone I guess. Noted on sheet.

"I heard one of them splashing through the stream Holly.  Normally I would think hunger attracted them to us, but seeing is how they have this mark, I'm not sure what to think."

Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20+5. Search +5.  Dice hate me

Don't worry.  It was a roll to notice the mark without specifically examining the wildcats.  Snow ended up getting a close look and saw the mark.

In reply to Glumr (msg #58):

OOC-Its not the dice, you were too busy trying to remember your old partner's name---it was Siegfried ;)

Taking a very close look at what Snow had found, Holly considers the mark, before running her finger over the design.

"If they were a pet, I don't expect them to have been kept by anyone friendly. I suggest we be careful for a few days, and actually stay together. If we are parted, and someone attacks, I don't think we are able to tell what will happen."

Holly moves back to her bedding, but isn't sure if she wants to sleep quite yet.

Snow spends some time skinning, and salvaging some fresh meat from the cats.  She gives Mutt and Jeff their fill, some raw pieces but mostly cooked.  She'll make stew of some of the meat for morning breakfast and attempts to smoke as much of the rest of it for the road strip.  Would like to try and skin the cats for pelts too.

Glumr thinks Snow has the right idea and rolls some of his leaf up and has a smoke.  He sits and leans against the cart and blows some smoke rings.  Seems like Snow is up and about for her watch so he relaxes and considers a nap before the morning is here.  Glumr pulls his hat down in front of his eyes a bit and tries to get comfortable with his injured arm.

The rest of the night passes uneventfully.  Snow and Glumr work together to skin and butcher the wildcats.  Wildcat1's pelt comes out pretty good and the other one not so much.  You also cut 50 pounds of meat from the two carcasses.  The Triplefang adventurers have 86 pounds of food as of the beginning of day 2 of your trip.

In the mid-morning it starts pouring.  By late morning you finally finish pulling up camp.  Glumr leads you to his uncle's farm.  You're a little surprised as you approach the pastures to see (very soggy) sheep in the fields and a shepherd minding them.  He is an old man named Bevin Triplefang.  He's quite impressed to see you all ride up.  Bevin passes his condolences to you when he hears why you came.  He tells you that he doesn't live on the farm, but that he's been taking care of the heard since the goblin attack.  A girl about your age named Keelia is living there now.  Even through the heavy rain you can just make out the buildings of the farm in the distance from here.

"Bevin, If were that close, could you be kind enough to watch our cart and our mounts.  It might be best if we didnt ride up there and approached on foot instead.  If there are clues to find regarding what happened it's less likely to find them from on top of a horse."

"Thank you for tending the herd Bevin" Glumr says  "Can you tell us anything of the goblins or this Keelia?  Why would she just take up residence at my family's estate?"

"Roofs are seldom left long before they are used Glumr." Holly says, as she lets some thoughts run through her head. Moving over to Moonlight, she rubs his face, knowing he will appreciate the rubbing of the water off his nose.

"Bevin, have you been plagued by any wildcats around here recently?"

Snow gets off midnight and plays with Mutt and Jeff, tossing a small leather ball around for them to play fetch with her.

"Sure thing, young lady.  Watching animals is what this old gentleman has done most of his life."






Bevin nods.  "The girl with the odd hair is right.  We're all family, son.  This is a fine place.  Would you rather it just crumbles into ruins?  No...  we can't have that.  But seeing as to how you were close family, you can take a few sheep with you if you'd like."

"As for Goblins, an attack like this is unusual.  Of course, I've been around long enough to see all manner of oddity out of those little bastards.  They're wild and unpredictable.  Sometimes they'll just do a thing to do it as long as there's not much danger involved.  Attacking farmers is a sight easier than going toe-to-toe with warriors.  Little cowards."

He thinks for a while, head tilted back and rain pouring off the front of his hood onto his face.

"I heard goblins killed a couple of hunters too.  That was down by them Dark Woods.  Just asking for trouble going too close to that place."

He shivers at the thought of it.

"That Keelia's a peach, and cute as a baby button quail.  You might never meet a sweeter girl.  I'm guessing she'll have a stream of visitors once word gets around she's out here alone."



"They'll grab a lamb here and there if you're not careful, but an old dog like me can run 'em off easy.  Why do you ask, Miss?"

"We should looks around, see if there are Goblins about, maybe deal with them a little to give them second thoughts about coming back.  They's small, and cowardly, but numbers give them courage.", Snow seems to be talking to Mutt and Jeff, or maybe herself while she's playing fetch with the dogs.

In reply to Snow (msg #70):

Aye Snow, I've been itching to try out my new axe, and goblins should break it in just fine.  We'd be best to see if we can catch a few during the daylight hours before nightfall gives them an edge.

"I saw a pack of three yesterday, and was wondering if their domain included here. I'd rather only have goblins to worry about, and not hungry cats." Holly said, aware she was just trying to play out a hunch, and hoped the others would not mention the attack during the night.

"Thank you Bevin.  I dont have any need for sheep, especially as I am on my way out of triplefang lands, but if you could make sure to send some of the harvest from them to my Mother in Golag, you would have my appreciation."  Glumr says to the old man.

"Well my friends, if you be looking to kill some goblin, you wont have to be askin me twice."  Glumr spits in disgust.  It's no secret that he hates goblins.

"Shall we go investigate the dark woods where the goblins have been spotted and plan to camp at my relatives this evening?  Bevin could take our horses there and let Keelia know we are going to stay the night.  If you dont mind Bevin?"

"What?  You're going to the Dark Woods on purpose?  It sounds to me like a plan to throw your lives away."

"You can leave your horses here for this old timer to watch over, or you can take them to the farm's stables.  I'm sure they're good and empty now.  But I can't take them to the stables for you.  I've got business to attend to right here."

With well over a week since the attack, and all the rain Glumr is pretty certain that he won't be able to find any tracks from the goblin attack at the farm without a major stroke of luck.  He's hoping to pick up a trail MUCH further south where they are reported to be plentiful.  They probably won't be the same goblins who killed his aunt and uncle and the others, though.  On foot you could not reach the dark woods today, much less go there, track, fight, and come back.  They are further south than Crim (and you're still 3 days ride from there), which was your original destination on the way to Rankor Heights.

So...  what's the group plan?  What are our heroes going to do next?

Holly considers for the moment, and then says, "Perhaps we should leave going to hunt in the Dark Wood until after we get our name in this book. I say we visit your old place Glumr, and check that all is well with the new inhabitant. If goblins are around they will find us soon enough, and we may find more on our way south. For now I'd rather like to see more of the Triplefang lands."

"It doesnt hurt to go look around.  If for no other reason to reminence.", Snow unsaddles Midnight anticipating a long break, and wanting to ease the horses burden so that it might get a proper rest.  Once the horses are settled, Snow is ready to procede however Glumr wants to continue.

He knows the lands better than anyone else here, is her presumption and he has a personal stake in the matter.  She'll procede, or not as Glumr desires, and uncharacteristically give him zero hassles about anything he decides and even be more free with support of anything she approves of.

Holly doesn't say much as Snow uncinches her horse, but keeps the Dun saddled, and herself riding. If the others wanted to move out on foot, that was up to them, but being up on the horse gave her a good view, which might be useful if something was trying to ambush them, cat or goblin.

I'm thinking it's still morning, not past noon?

Glumr reconsiders things after putting travel in perspective.  "I agree with Holly.  Let's go to the farm house, see what is happening there.  And then move on to get the book. It can aid us when we come back to clean the goblins from the dark woods"

Glumr draws the symbol they saw on the ground.  "Bevin... Have you ever seen this symbol, or has it any meaning to you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:44, Tue 22 June 2010.

It's just after noon.



"Sorry son, this old man does have much use for reading."

You bid farewell to Bevin and make your way up the gentle muddy slope to the farm.  There are two main houses and a smaller secondary house, a stable, two barns and a nursery, as well as several fenced off pens.  It looks like the granary has been burnt down as well as some sort of small coop.  There are some crops planted in the fields which don't look like they've been tended much.  You also notice that there's no livestock here.  Upon closer inspection some of the structures have fallen into mild disrepair.  You stable the horses and dogs and try the living quarters.  A girl about your age (Bevin was right.  She is cute.) in a plain dress answers the door of the secondary house.

"Oh hello, can I help you?" asks Keelia.

Glumr tells her why you are here and she invites you to come in out of the rain.  Her toddler is in the main room playing with a set of wooden balls.  You all sit down around a table there that Glumr recognizes from his last visit (it seemed larger then) and Keelia brings you some fruity wine that has a startling sting to it.  The house is quite pleasant.  It has a comfortable feel to it which is more welcoming than Elana's cabin.  You imagine the main houses must be even grander.  The farm would make a good Inn like The Lion, but it's not on the way anywhere so there are very few travelers.

"I'm sorry about your family.  I don't know why goblins would've attacked here.  I sure hope they don't come back.  If you'd like I could show you where your aunt and uncle are buried."

The girl strikes you as genuine and empathetic.

Snow smiles but declines the wine, she'll use it while cooking but wont drink it otherwise.  Mutt and Jeff are left outside to wander around while Snow is inside she doesnt want them wandering around the Inn.  They get a little fidgety when they're cooped up someplace new.

"So you havent seen them (the goblins) again since the attack?  I think it might be nice to pay our respects before we move on."

Glumr agrees "I'd like to see them Keelia.  We are traveling, but upon our return, we plan to deal with the goblin problem and make the dark wood safe once again."  Glumr enjoys the wine and rolls up some leaf to enjoy when they walk outside.

"I'd like to walk through the main house as well.  Maybe grab some supplies or items that might aid us on our journey."

Glumr takes some chalk out of his pouch and draws the symbol they seen on the cats on the table. "Keelia, have you ever seen this symbol?"

"That's right, Miss.  I haven't seen a goblin with my own eyes for almost two years."



"What, like blankets and stuff?"



"No I haven't, Mister.  Is that a goblin mark?"





"Alright, I'll go get my slick and show you out there."

You finish your wine and put your outerwear back on.  Keelia gathers up her son and puts on a oilskin poncho.  She picks up on of the lanterns to light the way.  She takes you out past the fields and past a low stone wall to an area where the grasses have been cleared away.  There are 6 mounds marked with poles.  You see other poles rising above the grasses outside the cleared area.

"These two are your aunt and uncle's.  I'm sorry.  I'm not sure which is which.  These three are for their children.  I think their oldest was my age," says Keelia, shifting her son over onto her other hip.  "They were good people - well respected by everyone in the southlands.  I don't think either aimed to be an elder some day, but folks sometimes looked to them for direction anyhow.  Now no one comes.  Well... short of Bevin and you four.   The soldiers don't stop by to camp here any more.  What are they going to do?   Discuss strategy with me?"

When you're done at the gravesite, Keelia leads you to one of the main houses.

"The other house is empty.  I don't think you'll find anything there.  No one's lived in it for years."

"Thank you Keelia.  I'm much appreciative to be payin my repects to my family."  Glumr tells the young mother.  "I hope the area stays quiet for you.  I might tell our elders that this is a fitting stop to rest for our kin on their travels.  It'd be good for ye to have some visitors now and then I'm thinkin'."

Glumr goes into the house to see what may be about.  He's not sure what he'll find in there, but since he's here, he might as well check.  Maybe there will be some extra arrows around.  Maybe some animal traps.  Maybe some dried meats.  These are things that could come in handy for the travels.

These whole events have left him feeling a bit lost.  Unsure of what to do for his family.  He think the best idea is to move onward with the quest to get the Tome of Legends, focus on that, and then hopefully things will fall into place.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:14, Thu 24 June 2010.

The main house has some standard household items unsurprisingly, such as table cloths, blankets, lamps, candles, pots, a cauldron, various carpentry tools, a few hatchets, an old bow and plenty of arrows (Keelia would appreciate it if you left the bow just in case, but you're welcome to take as many arrows as you like).  There are indeed some traps and snares, a lot of firewood, a couple of shovels, 4 50 foot coils of hemp rope,  and various men's and women's clothing including a nice white dress with green ribbon trim that Snow can't help but take a closer look at.  If there's anything else you'd like to search for in particular, let me know.

You head back to the stables (with whatever gear you want to take from the main house) and mount up.  It's not raining quite so hard now.  For a few minutes everyone is just milling around.  Holly gets her bearings first and leads the way towards Crim.  Bevin waves to you as you ride off.

Holly has been her usual quiet self, simply using her time to observe and take mental notes. She is glad GLumr brings up the symbol on the cats, as she had thought of a way to see how Keelia would react to it appearing in the home she kept. One concern was nearly answered by the response given, and her mind wondered off on other things.

She followed the others to the graves, marking the passing of those buried with the respect owed to those that had lived long, and for those taken before a life had really begun.

Snow does take a closer look at the clothing, particularly the white one with the green ribbon.  She doesnt touch, and definitely has no plans to take any of it though.  It would be disrespectful.  Snow's always curious about clothing and the white dress seems sorta out of place and she wonders where it came from and what it's use might be.

Does th Fabric look Triple Fang?  Is it a local cut?  Can she guess as to it's use?

(OOC:you can make what ever rolls you think appropiate for this Fritz)

Holly takes the lead, leading the group further into their journey, and hoping that the rain stops before they camp. The rain cuts down the visibility, and that worries her a little, but as Moonlight seems to be enjoying the rain, she lets the worry slip.

"Ugh... were here, cant we stay till the rain stops?", it's the first selfish thing Snow's asked for since stopping off at the house.  She absolutely hates traveling outdoors, and the sentiment triples in foul weather.

Glumr suggests that if anyone sees anything that would be handy, feel free to take it.  His Aunt and Uncle would have wanted it that way.  "Dont worry Snow, there's no disrespect.  This is all the clans now.  They were my relatives, so it's more than fair if we take a few things for our use."

Glumr grabs a shovel, two of the ropes, a couple traps and snares, and some arrows and packs them on the cart before they ride out.

He takes up on his mount and rides Bella into the rain, hat pulled low to keep the rain out of his collar, puffs of sweet leaf smoke trailing behind him.

The decision to focus on the book helps him put the other worries and issues aside for now.  He feels good despite the rains best attempts to put that off.

Glumr adds 40 arrows to his horses bags
Puts rope, snares, and shovel on the cart
This message was last edited by the player at 19:42, Thu 24 June 2010.

Snow wont touch any of it, she's been to the otherside, and somehow it doesnt seem right.  She'll nod and smile agreement to Glumr though.

"We're travelling we dont need to be bogged down with a lot of pretty clothes."

"Agreed there, but you might find some thread and needle, or some tools for leather work if you look around." Glumr responds.

It's a form house/ ranch house... So if you think there would be something you can use, ask Fritz and it might be there
This message was last edited by the player at 20:17, Thu 24 June 2010.

Snow looks around mostly to humor Glumr, but she's really not looking to loot the dead, it would have to be something particularly exceptional or unique to tempt her.

Snow is pleased when the rain breaks.  There's hope of finding a dry place to camp tonight and actually drying off by the fire.  I'll will feel good to not be soaked.  Later in the evening Holly slows down.  She's scanning around very carefully.    She's been worried wildcats lately, perhaps she's spotted something.

Snow keeps her eyes open for trouble, but doesnt really expect it.  After the beating Mutt and Jeff gave them yesterday she's feeling pretty safe in the presence of her two dogs.

She's fairly confident that Mutt, Jeff, or herself will notice something if trouble comes.  It's not raining and that's just too much good news for her to hope for.  She hates camping, camping in the rain is just so much worse.

Thought we were at camp, so this is what I'll do when I get to camp.  Till then, scratch it.

Glumr rolls up some leaf and enjoys a smoke now that the rain has broke.  He busies himself tending to camp.  He gets some firewood and kindling chopped with the hatchet and sets the animal snares and traps a bit away from camp, hoping to catch something nice and fresh for their breakfast or lunch.  He mentally thanks his Aunt and Uncle for the items since they came from their estate.

Glumr is in good spirits.  He loves camping out in the open like this.  He thanks Ehlonna for the break in the rain and takes a bit of time just to relax.  His arm is still tore up from the previous cat encounter, but he knows if trouble shows up, he's got a couple potions stashed in his clothing.  Hopefully things will just heal on their own.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:41, Fri 25 June 2010.

Holly points out the tree, and calls out to the others. "Lets see if that tree can provide us with cover and wood for a fire to dry off." With that Holly waitsfor a moment, and then leads the others towards the tree.

It's a little early to camp, but good firewood is sometimes tricky to come by in these wide open grasslands.  As you ride up closer to the tree you all notice it's dead, which means you can chop it clean down without any qualms about killing one of the rare trees.  You decide to chop this tree down and load as much of the wood as you can onto the cart.  Mord and Glumr work on the tree with their axes while Snow, Holly, Moonlight, the eye, and Snow's dogs search around for another tree to camp near.

It doesn't take long before the girls realize that all the trees in the area are dead. (Holly and Snow can make either Survival DC 17 or Knowledge Nature DC 12 rolls.)  Furthermore you ride up on a strange stone construct of some sort.  It has very low stone walls that starts out as ground-level slabs at the outer edge and grow to a height of about 2 feet high near the center.  The walls spiral together in a twisty, chaotic fashion and come together in a stone spire at least 8 feet tall.  The walls are very roughly made and not uniform at all.  Including the flat ground-level tendrils of the walls the construct fills a circle maybe 75 ft across, but since it's mostly at or below the level of the surrounding grasses it's not very visible from afar.   The eye makes a fanfare trumpeting sound to get your attention.  It is floating near carvings on the spire.  Prominently among the carvings in several places is the @< mark you saw on the wildcats.  (Holly and Snow may also both make search rolls.)

"This can't be good.  I think there might be more at work here than just goblins.  Possibly something directing them?  We should get the boys... in case it's dangerous."

08:29, Today: Snow rolled 10 using 1d20+2. Nature check, untrained.
05:02, Today: Snow rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Search.

Snow will work Detect Magic to look around, sensing something is amiss, perhaps looking into the arcane, would hint if it was natural or something more magical at work here.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:29, Mon 28 June 2010.

Holly nods in agreement. The tree was not dying naturally, or so she thought [Holly rolled total of 22 for Know Nature against DC12] and had an idea on what it might be. Yet finding the stonework and the spire was more worrying. She moved over to the eye when the others were all together, and looked over the markings, trying to make sense of them.

"Something is definitely claiming our land, with this and the cats we saw yesterday. Mord, do you think we could destroy this spire with the help of ropes and our horses?"

"This is beyond the average goblin tribe if you ask me" Glumr says as he ponders this structure.  "I'm not sure we should just go and knock it down without knowing more about it.  I wonder if there is anything inside."

Glumr tries to examine the structure looking for loose stones or a way inside.

Snow and Holly look around the site a bit before leaving.  Snow spots some blood and possibly a carcass of some sort on one of the low walls.  She convinces Holly that it's time to go fetch the others before any closer investigation.  They ride back to the first tree where Mord and Glumr are chopping wood.  The boys set the task aside for now and follow Holly and Snow to the stone structure.

(Mord and Glumr may make search rolls and Glumr may make a survival roll in addition.)

Everyone examines the carvings.  They look more like a random collection of marks than writing and no one recognizes any more than the mark from the wildcats.
Speaking of wildcats, the blood and carcass that snow spotted appear to be of a wildcat.  It does not have a mark on it and has been there long enough to putrefy.  It smells awful (but not as bad as the Trogs).  It's a good thing it's in open air where the smell can dissipate.   A carcass like this should have been ravaged by scavengers by now but it looks mostly untouched after the original fatal cuts which slashed open the torso.


Holly and Mord discuss whether they might be able to tear down the spire with horsepower.  You'll have to use your best judgement on this one.  No help from the DM.

It's easy to get "inside" the structure. There are only low walls, about 2 feet high at their highest in the center, and there is no roof.  You can step over the walls or walk to the center via unwalled ground sections.  Glumr does find a few stones which look loose enough to pull out of the wall with some determined effort.  The walls don't look like they were built to last.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:50, Mon 28 June 2010.

"Magics been used here in the past...", Snow murmers to no one in particular,possibly to herself.

Seh starts to move around to try and find the source of the glimmer of magic.  Possibly it might lead to a clue on something more important.  The Carcass while distasteful is for the most part mundane.  As are the scratches and writings.

There does seem to be something 'beneath' it all and Snow slowly starts to circle the area she detects, to see if she can isolate a source/location she might seek 'entry'.

10:53, Today: Mord rolled 12 using 1d20. search roll.   (OOC) not sure what mods I would get, if any)


I don't like the looks of this thing at all.  I'm pretty sure we can tear it apart.    Snow, can you tell if its enchanted or cursed?

"Faint magics... I'm trying."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:02, Mon 28 June 2010.

Glumr is worried about this structure.  He's not really sure if they should tear it down.  It's not natural and doesnt belong in these lands.  This he knows.

"I'm not sure about knocking it down.  What if it's cursed or worse?" Glumr says to his friends.  "While Snow is pondering with her abilities, let me look around before we do anything."


 Glumr rolled 15 using 1d20+5. Search it!.
 Glumr rolled 30 using 1d20+11. Track +11.

Holly nods at Glumr as he walks off to check for tracks. She looks over at Moonlight, aware that he is more attuned to the world than she is sometimes, especially as he is not focused on the task as she is. And the spire and the wall were something unusual, that was for sure. "Snow, shouldn't we record the symbols? I have parchment and ink. You take the symbols, and I'll draw out the spire and circle wall, then we can copy the others work to get two complete sets of information." Holly was more than willing to shorten their time here, if it meant she could do her copying in peace later.

"In... a minute... doing something.", Snow tries to run down her magical trail, and examine the source for 'type' of magic if it's strong enough before her spell fades.

Mutt and Jeff trail along beside her sniffling.  They'll behave unless they smell something seriously wierd and un~natural.

Snow is wandering around at the perimeter of the stones.  She's muttering to herself about magic.  Glumr is drawn by curiosity to follow her out there.

"Hey, someone's been digging here," he says, pointing out broken ground and lack of grasses.


The two of them walk around just beyond the outer edge of the structure and find two other places where digging has occurred.  Glumr sets to tracking.  There are human, wildcat, goblin, hobgoblin, bugbear, and some claw-footed small to medium sized bipedal tracks here.  This is a popular place!  The human tracks and the goblin tracks are about the same age- several days to a week.  Glumr tells Snow that he'd have a better chance of following the goblins even though the trail is very cold.

As for Snow's dogs, they actively dislike the entire place.  They stay clear of it and reluctant to come near it even when commanded.  They bark at the structure and keep their distance.   Moonlight is similarly agitated.  It's similar to your first spotting of the wildcats.


Mord begins rigging up ropes that could be used to knock over the spire.  Glumr is once again distracted and goes running over to Mord.  Glumr has had experience setting up a rope harness to pull down trees and thinks he might be able to help Mord set up something like that.

If it turns out that you'd like to try pulling down the rock spire Glumr will need to make a rope-use roll at +2 for Mord's assistance.

"The magic is too old and weak for me to learn much, they take place where theres digging and where theres writing."

Snow hops up on the low end of the wall to climb up carefuly towards the center of the structure to examine the tip.  If they're going to topple it, she wants to examine it first.

It's very easy at first.  The "wall" begins like a flat paved walkway of thin slabs of stone.  After about a dozen steps it rises a bit and becomes an uneven surface.  Snow balances, walking very slowly up on of the spiraling walls.  The wall twists and snakes its spiraling way inward.  The balancing act is not dangerous.  A misstep can be corrected by stepping on the ground instead.  Soon Snow reaches the center.  (Tada!)  She's now standing about 2 feet off the ground.  The other low walls meet here in the center to form a tall stone spire.  Snow can reach up and touch the tip and she can almost touch her fingers together, hugging around the stone.  There doesn't seem to be anything supernatural about the stone spire.  It the only part of this structure that is visible above the grasses from a distance.

The wildcat carcass lies slashed all over one of the walls less than a foot high.  Since all the walls spiral, Snow had to walk past (but not over) the body on her way to the center.  The three areas where there has been digging recently are just beyond the outer edge of the structure.  They are space unevenly around the perimeter not too close to one another.

Snow pauses to look out and around from the spiral to see what she can see from this view point.  Its possible that this was used as a marker, it's height possibly used for some means to scout or navigate.

Can she see other such spires as this one anywhere from her vantage point, or anything else that might be of interest?

If not at least she's at the center and can help knot a rope around the spire to help teeter it easier.  Are the stones just stacked on one another?  how is it all held together?  Sorta important if the boys want to take it apart.

The structure feels mundane for the most part.  The magic used more a risidual of what was done here as opposed to the object being magical.

Snow is making an educated guess that possibly shaman magic was used to summon critters to ... do something?

Glumr sets the ropes up to tear topple the stone object.  "So we all want to pull this down?  Mord and I can do it.  I still feel uneasy about this thing, but I guess we're better off with it broken."   Glurm says to his friends.

"Snow, do you agree?"  Glumr wants to make sure she she doesnt have any doubts from things her abilities may be telling her.

Glumr rolled 30 using 1d20+13. Use Rope +13.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:17, Tue 29 June 2010.

The main spire is a single long stone, probably splintered somehow to create the shape, and sunk into the ground.  The rest of the walls are built up around its base.  You cannot see any other spires around, just grasses, a few dead trees, and the setting sun.

Mord and Glumr have the spire and ropes hooked up to their two horses ready to tear it down.  Holly is madly scribbling some notes and sketches.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #114):

No rush Holly.  Draw what you need to draw--we will pull it down when you and Snow are ready.

"Thanks." Holly said to Mord as she sketched the symbols a little more carefully. They would need recording she knew, and the size and position of the wall was easy enough to remember.

Snow helps secure the rope to the spire, that looks like the 'weak point' of the entire structure.  Then she gets down to help Holly finish her scribing.

When Holly is done with her notes she nods.  Mord and Glmur command their horses to pull.  At first it looks like nothing is going to happen, but eventually the stone starts to tip, causing the supporting walls on that side to crack.  The stone lists over to one side.  Glumr thinks his horse (and Mord's) are getting tired.  They give the horses a break to rest.  Holly suggests using her riding horse and Snow's while the other horses are resting.  Glumr hooks the rope harness up to the other horses and they give it another go.  The progress is slow but steady, now that the initial damage has been done.  It all ends with a loud crash that spooks the horses.  Luckily, Glumr and Holly are very good with animals and get them calmed down in short order.  The stone is laying on ground and low wall chunks.

It's getting late.  Is there anything you'd like to do before leaving and setting up camp elsewhere?

Now that theres a huge crack in the structure, Snow is curious to see if theres anything in/under it before departing.

Directly under where the spire stone used to stand there is now dirt and small rocks.

Snow frowns mulls it over, and works another detect magic now that the spire is toppled to be certain they're not missing anything.  If nothing is found she'll get ready to depart with her cousins.

"Do you think we should take those stones with the markings with us?", she asks absently to Holly.

Holly looks down at the mass of stone they would need to carry, and says, "I think it would be too much of a burden. We may need to move quickly at some point, and I'd rather not have to lug it around with the cart."

"Holly wrote them on her parchment, didnt you?"  Glumr asks.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:23, Thu 01 July 2010.

Snow shrugs, "Nothing like having the original but if you think it's too heavy a copy will have to do."

Snow casts again and wanders around the structure.


The spire stone is too big to take with you without slowing the expedition down to a crawl.  Holly did copy down the markings.

What's your next move?

"Ugh...", Snow wanders back to where she detected the glimmers of magic and makes a face.  There was no way around it.  She was going to have to dig or will she...?  Snow whistles for Mutt and Jeff to come along to her and glances at Holly.

"I dont suppose you can convince Mutt and Jeff to dig here for us?  It would save us work and from getting messy."

"If you think there is something to find, then I can try." Crouching down, Holly starts to play with Mutt and Jeff, getting them onto her side, and then casts a spell to let her talk with them.

"Bone time guys! Lets dig here and try to find one the lady has buried for you. I'll get there first!", at which point Holly begins to scrape at the earth where Snow had indicated, trying to incite the two dogs to join her and then carry on digging for an imaginary bone.

"You'll need to give them a treat, as they are digging for a bone you have buried Snow", Holly said as she let the two dogs go for it.

[Casts Speak with Animal to incite Mutt and Jeff to dig for a bone.]

Snow has some of the meat from the cats they killed earlier, seasoned and marinated ready for dinner tonight, she'll sacrafice it to the doggies if they spare her from getting her hands dirty.

Mutt and Jeff do not like this place.  They have been barking and howling and warily keeping their distance.  They look at each other with curiosity when Holly speaks to them.  Then they bark and yip and jump at each other.


After the short exchange with each other they reluctantly set to digging at the spot Holly instructed, but without the enthusiasm you might expect.  After a couple minutes they have a hole about 18 inches deep.  You could easily plant a bush here now in this hole.  They stop digging and run around the hole once, chasing each other.  They appear to have lost interest.  Luckily, you have a shovel that you picked up at the farm house.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #129):

Mord grabs the shovel from the cart and starts digging where the dogs left off. He will empty the shovels of dirt in a broad ring around the hole.  In case something small comes up in a shovelful of dirt, it should hopefully be easier to spot spread out that way.

"I'll play with the dogs while you finish off the hole, care to join us Snow?"

With that Holly bounds off after Mutt and Jeff, telling them its time to play, and that they should play nicely with her and the Alpha.

I believe, from what little i know of dog training that the owner is considered the 'alpha' and hence the reason why they listen to orders/commands from them.

Snow nods and asks just a little deeper, and if nothing is found Snow will give it up thanking Mord for the indulgence.

Snow plays with Mutt and Jeff a little more, she's been doing it all day, though it's probably a novelty for them to 'talk' to holly as they do it.  She parts with a raw piece of cat flank she was saving from the cart, to reward the doggies.  It probably wasnt going to last longer uncooked anyway so it was best to part with it now was her thoughts.

After a couple of minutes of this she goes to check on Mord and examines the hole.

Glumr sits by Mord, keeping him company with idol chat as Mord works his way through the earth.   Glumr rolls up some leaf and his friends can catch whiffs of the sweet smoke that blows through the air.  It's nicer to smell than the dead animal that was here.

Glumr sits and relaxes, watching Mord work, and watching the girls play with the dogs.  He blows smoke rings, trying to blow one ring through another.  Keeping an eye on the dirt that is being removed, but he is not sure if there's going to be anything to notice or not.

About 3 feet down Mord reaches something - part of a body.  He clears away more dirt and uncovers more of the body.  By now everyone has gathered around.  The sun is setting and it getting hard to see into the shadowy hole.  With a dramatic flourish, Glumr produces a torch from his pack, inexplicably already lit, to shed more light into the hole.

According to Mord the body looks to be some kind of mud and rock man.  It's a little bigger than a human and it appears to be made as much of earth as flesh.  The Triplefang peer down into the hole to get a better look.  Suddenly, everyone but Mord jumps in surprise as the body moans and moves ever so slightly.

"Wow" Glumr says holding his magic torch.  "You dont see that everyday".  He looks at his friends and shrugs.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:31, Fri 02 July 2010.

"Uhmm....", Snow starts to back away, "Maybe we should back up a little and give it some room?"

'eww eww eww ick...', does it look whole/decomposed friendly/hostile?

"I'm guessing there are two others buried around here, the question is, do we need to kill them or something..."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:19, Fri 02 July 2010.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #134):

Mord shrugs and mutters a "Hmmph", hopping out of the hole.   He drops off the shovel at the cart and takes up his axe again, watching at the edge of the hole to see if the groaning body will need some extra attention.

"No... Let's not kill anything without knowing what it is.  If it does anything hostile, let's get it.  But we should figure out what this before we take action."  Glumr says.  He's intrigued by this whole thing.  He draws his scimitar just to be on the safe side.

"Two more buried? Where abouts Snow." Holly asks, her sickle in hand, and her thoughts moving into darker images of what it could be. I didn't look natural, but Holly tried to remember if they had taught her anything that might look like this creature.

[Holly rolled 18 using 1d20+6. Holly - Know Nature - Creature type. ]

Snow seems to gesture 'over there' and 'over there' with her hand.

"They're still buried, and depending on how this one acts, they might stay there."

Glumr gets down close to the hole.  "Hey buddy...  What's going on down there.  Are you okay?"  He yells into the hole.  He looks at his companions and shrugs.  He feels odd, but it is an odd situation.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:33, Fri 02 July 2010.

Snow gives Glumr a doubtful look, as if he were being seriously reckless with something that might be a hostile mud/earth/rock elemental that would crush him between it's rocky fist to clear the way to sitting up.

"Umm... Maybe you shouldnt stand so close to the hole...?"

Knowledge Nature fails you in this case.  This mud and rock and flesh man this is not normal and does not occur naturally to the best of Holly's knowledge.  Then again, neither does a floating eye, and that hasn't turned out so bad.

After its initial moan and quiver the unburied earthen humanoid just lies there in the pit.  It doesn't respond to questions.  The thing is twisted and misshapen like some parts are more developed than others.  For instance, one arm is a lot bulkier that the other.  It doesn't look human, that's for sure.

Snow made a face.  It didnt look friendly at all, and it looked VERY dirty.

"ugh... dammit...", Snow stamps her foot fustrated and shoos Glumr away and peers closer into the hole to see what they're dealing with.  Fingers curl silvery locks around her fingers as she regards the earthen humanoid.  She wasnt sure what it was but she started using some deductive logic.

It looked to be from the elemental plane of earth, and yet it also seemed to be imprisoned in the earth.  Had exposure to water and air done it harm of some sort.  It looked as if it was asymetrical, perhaps some of it was deteriating and in need of 'help' of some sort to help it along.  There were stones aplenty around now.  Lots of loose stones were about after toppling the spire.  Snow picks up a stone rock and gingerly brushes it against the 'smaller' limb, to see if she can get a reaction of some sort, possibly a 'sucking sensation to draw the stone into itself perhaps was what she was hoping for.

Shooing Glumr away would leave Snow with no light to see by, so she takes the more practical approach of walking around the other side of the hole and peering in from there.

Hmmmm...  Elemental Plane of Earth...  You've heard the words and you understand them, but what experience to you really have?  How would an elemental plane of earth differ from this one?  The answers are elusive.

Arcana, on the other hand.  Now we're on to something.  Surely magic has created this thing.  You've had training and practice in this field.  (and your roll was quite good too.)  It's not an elemental, nor a golem.  It is a creature created by goblin magic, but it appears to be only half baked so far.  Poking rocks into the smaller limb does seem to incorporate them, but the effect is subtle and might happen without magic.  It's hard to tell.
If you want to know more about this creature,  (like its name) please refer to the handouts:
link to a message in this game

Snow blinks... "This... This was a goblin... They're... making it into something... 'else'., Snow's face twists into something that expresses her repulsed sentiment.

"They're probably using them for something.  If they want them, we obviously need to get rid of them.  There are two more...", Snow points, "There and there... we should dig them up, stack them up and burn them till they're nothing but bone and ash."

Snow backs away looking around for something resembling dry wood, there were alot of dead trees but it had just rained and finding dry ones to make a fire might be difficult.  Snow's magic was on the wet and cold side, and not particularly good at making fires.

Glumr and Mord remind you that they had just been in the process of chopping firewood not long ago.  There's plenty for a fire and there are more dead trees around to replenish your stock tomorrow.

Snow wants to very badly make a pyre, dig them all up and have holly give them whatever passes for last rites as they burn them and put them to final rest.

In reply to Snow (msg #148):

Maybe this is how they make hobgoblins.

"What it is... is something that has to die.", Snow sounds very certain about this.  She heads back to the cart to get firewood to do the task herself if no one else will.  They're going to be stillborn if Snow has anything to say about it.  She'll start up a pyre near the stone structure and will drag the bodies up onto them, she'll take the shovel herself and will dig up the other two, to add, before setting it off to put them all at a final rest.  She'll do this all herself if no one else helps her.

Glumr realizes what this is.  "These be Trolls" he mutters at first to himself.  "Trolls!"  He says much louder to make sure everyone heard him.

"I think it'd be in our best interests to stop them from growing into full grown trolls.  I thinks the stone must be some marker for the goblin ceremony for where they create the trolls.  We done right in breaking the rock, but I dont know if that would actually prevent their rituals for working.  Might just be ceremonial.  Either way, we have three trolls here who wont be coming into our world once we're finished here."

Assuming the handouts are the character's base knowledge and that Glumr's favored enemy is golbinoids, he would know a bit or two about this.

In reply to Snow (msg #150):

mark the two spots with the shovel Snow and then give it to me.  I will dig up the others while you build the pyre.

"Do we need to burn them?  Maybe we should just scatter their pieces and interrupt the magics at work?" Glumr isnt sure on what to do.

"That would probably work, but I'd rather burn them to be sure and put them to rest proper."

Snow takes two shovels and walks around to where she detected the other two and shoves a shovel into the dirt to mark them for Mord.

Glumr shrugs.  "They's just some goblins, but if you want to have 'em rest proper, that's okay with me."

"You rather they finish growing cause we dont, or worse they become some sort of undead troll abomination?", Snow makes a face, "I dont tell you how to track, dont lecture me on the hazards of magical constructs."

Snow's been on her best behavior since meeting up with her cousins from hiatus.
This is the first time Snow's gotten snippy with Glumr for a few days now, so most of her cousins should notice she's either really aggitated or she's had enough of being nice to Glumr.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Tue 06 July 2010.

"You misunderstood.  I'm all for interrupting the magics.  Dont be carin' about a goblin proper rest though.  That's all I meant."  Glumr shrugs off Snows sharp tongued response and rolls up some leaf.  He's not sure why she's so quick to anger with him.  "Just be tellin me what you want me to do and it'll be done."  Glumr figures if anything he can help Mord dig.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:14, Tue 06 July 2010.

There's not much Glumr can do to help dig, so he stands and holds the light for Mord.  The sun sets while the party prepares  to destroy the bodies of these partial trolls.  All 3 bodies are dug up and decapitated.  Snow uses one of the holes as a deep fire pit and loads it with firewood.  The bodies and heads are dumped on the fire one by one.  They don't burn well, but the fire eventually does its job.  No one is sure what to do next.  Normally you'd fill in the fire pit, but you're concerned that maybe burying the troll remains might somehow allow them to regrow.  Instead you douse the smoldering fire with water and scoop out the wet ashes.  Everyone goes a different direction scattering ashes and returning to the pit for another load.

It's deep into the late late night when you finally finish the task.  There's a satisfied sense of accomplishment, but you're all weary with no campsite laid out yet.  You find the nearest dead tree and plop down there.  Holly has first watch, so she sets about tying the food up in the tree, clearing a small area for the fire, gathering flammables, and starting the campfire.  Moonlight and the eye attentively watch for trouble while she's busy.  The others fall right to sleep.  Holly decides to let Glumr sleep, since he's still injured and needs rest.  She wakes Mord next.  The sun is beginning to rise when Mord wakes Snow.  Overall the party is still tired, and rests at the campsite until after lunch.  Mord and Glumr take down the dead tree next to the campsite and chop firewood from it before you set out in the mid-afternoon.  The day is overcast, but warm.  It has looks like rain a few times, but only drizzles lightly once in the evening.

You travel southeast towards Crim.  It's nice to be riding instead of walking after a tiring night.  You feel your spirits rise.  You struck a blow against the goblins yesterday and the mystery and wonder of the Tomb of Legends still lies ahead.

Glumr recovers 2 HP for a full night's rest.

Snow will suggest that who ever has the watch wake one of her dogs for company, and when the watch shifts, to 'change dogs' so that if we run into trouble who ever is on watch isnt 'totally' alone.

The dogs werent digging and stuff much today and are probably better rested than us so it should be okay?

Before the adventurers roll out of camp Glumr complains to Holly about his wound and asks if she could use some of her divine powers and fix him up.

"Holly, I'd like to be at my best, but this arm isnt cooperating.  Can you help out a fellow servant of Ehlonna?"  Glumr asks her with a wink.

Holly simply smiles, taking the insult to her following to Obad-Hai as the gentle chiding it was intended as, and moves quickly to use the skills Obad-hai had granted her as she watched the fire burn the trolls. She was intrigued that this was were they came from, and decided this was something she would make note of herself.

"There Glumr, let the healing work its magic. I will recover as much as I can now, and anything else we can do in the morning." Holly says.

With the morning sun, Holly prays to Obad-Hai, and takes care of the Dun and Moonlight.

[Holly rolled total of 7 for casting CLW on Glumr]
This message was last edited by the player at 11:46, Wed 07 July 2010.

Glumr thanks Holly.  His arm and shoulder feel almost instantly feel better as the divine power flows through her into him.  "That should do the trick"

The third day of your trip to Crim is short day of travel.  You soon find yourselves camping again.  This time you make a proper campsite and have a well prepared evening meal.  The eye plays tunes until long after nightfall.  Everyone except Snow agrees that the evening would have been perfect with a little ale, wine, or other light spirits.  Perhaps you can pick some up in Crim.  The night's watches go uneventfully and you set out the next day well rested ad well fed.

In the late afternoon of the next day you begin to pass new farms along a river too small to use for travel.  Agriculture and cultivation of crops are both familiar to this young generation.  The Triplefang have used them your whole life, but you can tell they differ starkly to the old ways.  Crim is a good example of that.  It is a village built up around an old hunting lodge.  You have heard that long ago The Triplefang burned down all  of the nomadic clans' lodges in the south and invited them (demanded) to use the Triplefang lodges.  This was unpopular in its days and led to more than a few skirmishes, but the Triplefang prevailed and now their lodge policy is accepted.

Riding in on horseback gains you a small measure of instant respect despite  your young age.  You meet Baywald, a hunter and the youngest elder you've ever known of.  He's an impressive fellow, strong but not quite as massive as Mord, who carries a massive sword strapped to his back (an unusual choice among your kind)  He welcomes you to Crim, but wont let the eye or the dogs in the lodge, and asks to hear about your adventures.

Crim is more spread-out than Volge, though it appears to be home to about the same number of people.  There aren't any visitors from the Empire, but at least one in three people you meet here are from a clan other than Triplefang.  Food, hunting and farming tools, furs and cloth, and livestock are all plentifully available at market here.  There are also shrines to Pelor, Harix, and Elhona, and a small school here.  You are welcome to stay at the common house (a long barn-like building for travelers to eat and sleep in) or the old hunting lodge.

Glumr rolls up some leaf and lights it, blowing out a smoke ring.  "I vote hunting lodge" he says to his friends.  "I'd also like to stop by my temple when we get a chance."

You can stay there if you want Glumr, Snow wont stay someplace her dogs arent welcome.  She'll wander the market and looks at the various fabrics and stuff that she might find useful to do something with.

She has a new pet project in mind for herself, Gloves.  Something to keep her hands warm in the colder season, but light enough not to interfere with spell casting.  Possibly fingerless gloves.  She'll work out the pattern on fabric first, and use that as a liner for light flexible leather.

I misunderstood and thought the stay in lodge was different than the center of town lodge.

Glumr agrees with Snow.  "Aye.  I didnt realize the lodges we're one and the same.  We should defiantly stay in the common house where our entire group is able to go.  Dogs, Eye, and Us alike."

Snow shrugs, "I like comfort as much as the next person, but i have to tend to Mutt and Jeff, i cant have them wandering around unattended, and there is Eye.", Snow nods, "If you want to rest in a nice cushy room, by all means i wont hold it against you."

"No... I mean that you, me, the others, the eye, and the dogs can all stay in the common house together.  We are all permitted."

In reply to Glumr (msg #168):

Staying in the common house or even camping again are fine with Mord.... he's got more important things on his mind--Ale.  Just tell me where I need to stagger back to.

"I'd love a good pint myself.  Mord, you want to split a couple barrels to keep on the cart?"

In reply to Glumr (msg #170):

Nah...can't store it proper--and warm jostled ale is a foul beast i'd rather not slay.

Holly lets the others discuss the topics of ale, food and shopping, whilst looking around her self. She wants to find someone in particular, but is unsure as to how to go about it. Perhaps she should stick with Glumr whilst he visits his temple, she thinks to herself, and thens decides to ask Baywald.

"Baywald, are there any of the druidic order in Crim, or nearby? I have a message for them if I can pass it on." Holly doesn't know if the order is on good terms with Baywald, or Crim, but would like a chance to talk with one of her own.

Snow wanders the market for a bit and strikes up a conversation with Lady Gilfa Triplefang about the gloves she intends to make.  Lady Gilfa has just the wool for the job.  She agrees that while mittens would fend off the cold best in winter, the fingerless gloves you describe to her would be best for fine manipulation.  Ah, but wait, another merchant overhears!  Maureen Triplefang sidles over and extolls the virtues of a linen glove.

"Wool is far too bulky and rough.  What you need, my dear is to craft yourself a delicate pair of fine linen gloves.  They are much more graceful and soft to the touch," says Maureen, brushing a sample across your cheek.

"Nonsense," dismisses Lady Gilfa. "The cold will eat right through such light and flimsy material.  Linen gloves would be no more than vain decoration."

"I beg your pardon.  How warm will wool keep this poor girl's unprotected fingers?  Why they're bound the blacken from the frost and fall off while her palms stay toasty.  Linen will allow her to cover her entire hand, keeping even her fingers warm."

"And I suppose we have the sight of Maureen Triplefang running around in her linen knickers to look forward to this winter, hmmmmm?  Even a fool knows what to wear when the cold comes."

Even though Maureen and Lady Gilfa make the matter sound like one of life or death it's basically all the same.  You can get plenty of wool or linen to make 3 or 4 pairs of gloves for 2 silvers and they'll each work equally well.

Boys, you are in luck.  The long benches are out, the banners are up, and the beer garden open for business.  It's just outside a small pub on the opposite side of town from the common house.  Three young ladies are serving up ale and wine by the boot, a tall and wide mug the size of your boot, for a silver each.  Your server suggests that you start with 2 boots each, one of wine and one of ale, one for each hand, and see which you like better.  If you're looking for harder (or finer) stuff, she recommend a quick trip to the bar inside.

Mord is no fan of warm beer, so picking up a keg to go might be out of the question, but bottles of clear spirits are available inside for a gold apiece.   That would certainly kill the taste of wildcat you always carry on your tongue these days.

Holly stays back and joins Baywald in the lodge after everyone else departs.  The lodge is decorated with animal trophies, which tends to rub Holly the wrong way.  But it's otherwise very comfortable and functional, if a bit dark.  There's a very small fire in the center of the lodge and a few small windows letting in the afternoon light.  She inquires about druids.  Baywald gives her a long looking over to get a read on her before answering.

"You're one of them too, aren't you?"

"I do know of a druid here, Harj, but he doesn't spread word of that around.  I suppose there's no harm in telling you.  He mostly keeps to himself, but I'm not about to let talent go to waste.  I've sent him off with Tora's force as a healer where he'll do the most good."

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #173):

Snow nods politely to both, "It's true, for the winter, wool will keep my hands warmer. I will take a little wool, for my gloves, since the point is to keep them warm during the winter.  Though winter is only one season in four, and linen might work better for the cooler weathers.  I also plan on using it as a liner, so the thinner material will be more useful for that.  It does feel better against the skin too.  So I'll take a bit of linen too."

Snow buys a silvers worth of fabric from each and starts to go to work on her gloves to kill time.

Snow returns to the common house and sits outside to make use of the fading daylight to begin work on her gloves.  Holly arrives before sunset and calls in an early night.  It's nice to get some peaceful rest free of worry of attack.  The boys enjoy their time at the beer garden, but don't stay out too late after dark.

Glumr gets up early the next morning to make a visit to the shrine of Ehlonna.  It's a quiet little spot not to far or too near the center of town, with just the right mix of shade, shelter, and sunlight.  The altar area has a life-sized statue of Ehlonna with her sword drawn, some incense boats, a stand for the priest to speak from, and a collection box for donations.  The priest suggest that a small donation is perfectly fine.  Followers are not currently engaged in any costly endeavors.  There's not a lot of seating.  When larger numbers gather here the able tend to stand, as you all are now even though you could all be seated if you prefered.  He says a prayer for Glumr and a small gathering of 3 others.

The general gist of it includes the following philosophy:
As you are the guardians of nature, so too is nature watching out for your well being.  She provides you with that which you need to prosper when at peace and to strike a quick, decisive victory when peace is threatened.


Kammarra, your next stop on the way to Rankor Heights, is a two day ride from here to the east and with a hook to the south at the end.  This will take you into Ferrisedan lands.  However, maybe you'd like to find the Triplefang warriors out in the field first.  You're currently lacking in information about them, so you're not yet sure where to start looking if you were to choose that path.  There's also plenty of time to engage in other activities here in Crim.  You're in no real rush.

"If there is anything in the healing department I can aid you with until his return, then I am happy to help out. When do you expect Tora's party to return?" Holly asked, aware that some felt oddly about the Druids, and yet were always happy to accept their aid. Perhaps Holly would understand it more when she grew up into the role. Although her healing skills needed work, she was always happy to aid those in need.

Glumr donates a couple gold coins to the shrine.  It feels good to have a blessing with others that follow his beliefs.  It's nice to listen to the priest even though it isn't the most inspiring sermon.  After the priest finishes, Glumr makes some idol conversation with him and tells him a bit about the wild cats and troll "shrine" they knocked down.

Glumr asks if the priest knows the best way to deal with Trolls, or if he recognizes the symbols (Glumr draws them using a bit of chalk).  Glumr also checks to see if he can get a holy symbol of Ehlonna to wear out into the wilds.

Snow naps down with her dogs in the barn, oddly she doesnt seem bothered too much by it.  It's hardly a comfortable room, but it's a darn sight better than camping in the woods.  Since were in town she wont have to cook for anyone so she's off to market early.  She'll spend a few more coins to buy breakfast, and to purchase some thin, supple, hide/leather suitable for use for her gloves.  It'll have to be very thin and very flexible for her to work with as if it were thick fabric.

"We have a few that can watch over the sick and tend wounds.  The plants need more attention than the people do.  I'm afraid we have a lot more farms out there than farmers, if you know what I mean.  If you think you could do something to help with that I could point you towards a couple of our more lost causes.  Otherwise, you're free to wait around here if you'd like.  Tora sends a runner to the lodge with messages around when the moon is half.  That's something like four, maybe eight days at most."  (As if you needed a lesson on the moon phase.)  "You could follow the runner back to where ever they are camped down.  They tend to move around, cover ground, keep the gobs guessing."

Remember that you are speaking to Baywald on the first night you arrived in Crim.  As of then, the full moon was just 2 nights ago.  The moon is still very mostly full, but starting to wane.

"Hmmm," says the priest, looking at Glumr's chalk rendition of the mark. "I don't think I've seen anything like that before.  Do you think those might be legs?  Maybe a mouth?"

"You know Mr Glumr, other than what you just told me about the buried bodies, I've never had much reason to believe in trolls at all.  It's hard to know what's true and what's made up or exaggerated, and I hear plenty of all three.  I don't think my powers would be much use against a giant dirt monster."

"I don't have any holy symbols for sale, but..." he digs through a shoulder pack on the ground. "Here, you can have this one."

He smiles and hands Glumr a small, green, wooden holy symbol.

Holly passed on the information about the roaming party, and that she'd like to go check them out, and warn them of the trolls and the circle. "I'm in no rush to leave Triplefang lands, and any help we can give will aid the tribe. A four day or so will give Snow chance to work some leather, and you two to empty more barrels of ale. I'd also like to work on Dun and Moonlight before the swamp."

Glumr thanks the priest and moves on to find his companions.

A bit confused about the options.  We wait here for a few days till the runner comes back?

Holly is slightly out of synch, but that is the idea.

Glumr decides they are in no rush and a wait cant hurt anything. So while Holly waits on her meeting, he spends free time training his horse.

In reply to Glumr (msg #186):

Agree on waiting to meet with the patrol when it returns or head to them if we hear about a place we can meet up with them sooner.  In the meantime, Mord will see if there are any weaponsmiths or blacksmiths serving double duty and volunteer to help out with the physical labor in exchange for a little mentoring on techniques.

Crim turns out to be a rather pleasant village.  You stay at the common house with a couple dozen others.  About half of them are near permanent residents calling the manner their home.  The other half are mostly people living in the area in the village proper on business, with the rest made up of travelers like yourself stopping in Crim on their way somewhere else.

Goblins are a constant topic of idle talk in the common house.  Word has it there are more about these days.  They're feistier.  They're up to something, and something should be done about it.  One man suggests that someone should just set fire to the Dark Woods and be done with it, but talk of fires is never popular when you live in the grasslands.  The common wildfires are probably what kept everyone nomadic for as long back as the stories tell.  Natural fires are bad enough without people setting more themselves.

As for the rumors of increased goblin activity, you've heard it all before.  It seems that even in Volge that's what everyone says each season.  Goblins on the decline or staying the same...  That's just not as juicy, so the rumors always have them on the rise.

You all keep busy.  A local weapon crafter is more than happy to accept Mord's help in exchange for some tips and tricks of the trade.  Snow makes a pair of gloves.  Holly and Glumr spend time with their horses.

I need a craft seamstress roll from Snow and a handle animal roll from Glumr.


After 5 nights, Balki, the runner from Tora's force arrives the next day.  You go to the lodge to meet with Baywald and Balki.

"Balki, these are Holly, Mord, Snow, and Glumr Triplefang.  They've been waiting for a messenger from your warriors to come to town.  They have had some scuffles with goblins themselves and they'd like to discuss it with Tora," says Baywald.

"And this one has some business with your healer," he adds.

Holly looks a bit surprised that Baywald would mention that, but Balki doesn't pay it much mind.  He greets you each and goes right to filling you in.

"The fight against the gobs is all Triplefang these days.  Those cowards don't want to stand and fight.  They want to creep around at the edges and ambush you at night.  Tora's a crafty one.  Our bunch is big enough that the goblins can't gather enough to outnumber us 3-to-1 like they'd like without giving away their location.  Then we hit them by surprise and scatter them.  It's a rout.  Ha ha!  I love it!" says Balki with a hearty laugh.

"And we're small and quick enough to stay on the move, not too many men.  We've got a couple of good scouts.  We have as good an idea of what's going on out there as you can put together if you ask me."

"You youngsters are welcome to come out to help fight or pass on information first hand to Tora.  She'll welcome either.  But you can't bring your horses.  This is strictly...  what do those empire types call the foot-on-ground men?  Whatever."

At the mention of not taking their horses, Holly has to consider for a moment. She could "ask" Moonlight not to follow, but he made his own mind up about most things.

"Balki, I am happy to travel by foot, as my Dun is still not hardened to combat as much as I'd like, but the other horse, well lets say he has a mind of his own. I reckon he'll stay here and all, but if he decides to come along, he'll likely stay far enough away to not give us away to any scouts. Will that cause you problems?" Holly didn't want to say out front that Moonlight was her companion, but as Balki hadn't been against her seeing someone suspected as a druid, she wasn't too worried if he jumped to the obvious conclusion.

Snow shrugs while she does some needle work, she looks very much at home doing something so domestic with Mutt and Jeff at her feet, "I'll go where my cousins need me.", she says simply.

08:25, Today: Snow rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Craft Seamstress Roll.

GM:  Can I buy more leaf to smoke in Crim?  If so, I'm doing that before we leave

Glumr spent the days trying to train his horse.  While sometimes it seemed like the horse was getting it, really Glumr thinks she just wanted to be near him and wasnt really coming to his whistle.  The day the runner arrives, Glumr decides that in fact the horse is just not getting it.  Oh well, there will be plenty of training time in the future.

You rolled 11 using 1d20+5

When the runner arrives, Glumr is happy to sit back and enjoy a smoke of some of his leaf, blowing some rings as he listens to the discussions.  "It's okay with me.  Our horses will be well tended here."

The glove making goes fine.  Snow now has one new pair of gloves.  The horse training not so much.  Glumr can find smokes to buy in Crim, no problem.

The next morning you set out with Balki for Tora's camp.  Everyone brings 4 days of food (4 pounds) with them except for Balki who carries back a large pack of raw rations.  Not only does he want to leave the horses and dogs, but he also insists on leaving the eye behind since he doesn't consider it capable of stealth.  It's easy enough to find folks to watch over the animals and the eye takes to the beer garden.  The day is thickly cloudy, but doesn't rain.  From time to time the sun burns through the clouds for a little while, but the dark clouds win out more often than not.

After a little less than two hours of walking you make your way down into a valley  to cross a stream.  There are more trees and bushes down here than along the open stretches of grassland.

Everyone please make a spot or listen roll (whichever is better).

Snow thinks about that a bit.  It's not totally true.  Dogs are often trained for hunting companions, and prowling and stalking is required for hunting.  They're more stealthy than some of her cousins, by virtue of their size and low to the ground movements if nothing else.  They eye is alot harder to justify since it does have a tendacy to break out into song.

Snow will make an effort to impress on the dogs that they're 'hunting' and they're to stay 'heeled' unless told otherwise.  That should keep the dogs quiet and stealthy.  Snow brings along extra rations for Mutt and Jeff, an extra 8 pounds.  It's heavy but she wont complain about it.

08:59, Today: Snow rolled 16 using 1d20+6.

Holly has some difficulty in keeping Moonlight from joining, but gets easily distracted when a mare comes into season. Whilst he is off impressing the ladies, Holly moves out with the others, glad for the chance to run free again.

As they approach the stream, Holly finds her eye drawn to something...

[Holly rolled a total of 24 for Spot check]

Balki looks at the group, ready to leave in the morning.

"I hate to be the man who ruins the party, but these dogs have to stay here."

Mutt barks, and growls at the messenger.

"Hey," he says to the dog.  "It's Tora's rule, not mine.  She's done a real good job with us out there so far, so I tend to agree with her rules.  No horses," he says looking at Holly.  "Or dogs," says to Snow.  "Or pet goats...  If you have mice in your grain sack, leave them here in Crim too.  If this guy turns into a bear when the moon is full," he says pointing to Mord.  "He can't come either."

"You don't turn into a bear, do you big guy?"

"Meh...", Snow finds a place she can leave the dogs where she's told to leave them.

Holly sees a bunch of goblins capering around on the other side of the stream and a big ugly hobgoblin.  This might be the first time she's seen a hobgoblin in real life.  She signals everyone as quietly as she can.

"Get down in the grass slow and smooth," says Balki in a hushed voice.  "Looks like they have almost the 3-to-1 odds they like to attack.  What do you guys think?  Fight, run, or stay hidden?"

I need hide rolls from everyone and a short discussion of strategy.

The goblins are still about 350 feet away and they have some cover nearby.

"The element of surprise is very powerful.  I believe we have it at the moment, and should be able to take them.  We would have to get closer or lure them out first to be effective."

"I'm for fighting" Glumr says as he hides in the grasses.  His eyes flash a tell blue of excitement.

Holly slips into cover and considers for a moment. "How close might Tora be? If this is a scouting party for a bigger group, and they come at us, I'd like to know what be on our side, and nearby?"

"Other than that, I think we try and take them on. We have decent ranged weapons and then Mord to go in hard. I can slow them down a little, if that helps." Holly didn't want to blatantly say she would call on nature, but it was what she planned. Moving forward a little to get a better view of the hobgoblin Holly froze as she felt something break beneath her hand.

[Holly rolled an 8 total to Hide]

"I can provide and able distraction to make it easier for Mord to deal with them when they get closer.  Help with them a bit to make sure he's not over whelmed completely."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:42, Wed 21 July 2010.

Just as you sink down to take cover in the grasses the goblins spot you.  They take to the ground too, but much quicker.  They bark and shout short bits of speech you don't understand as they close through the grasses.  It's almost impossible to pick any one of them out, but they shake the grasses as they move, so you catch movement here and there.

Anyone who would like to make ranged attacks (this includes long range spells) may do so at 250 feet and again at 150 feet.  If Glumr would like to use rapidfire he can at either or both distances.  The shot at 150 feet will be into total concealment, so there an additional 50% miss chance if you hit normally.  You've got time to prepare spells and move into combat position or charge the enemy.

After that I'll need initiative rolls and I'll post a map.

Snow glances at Holly looking amused, "They're using grass... as cover... with you here.  That has to be working to our advantage...?", Snow whispers quietly to her cousin, recalling their first fight.

"They see us!"  Glumr says to his companions.  "I dont think cover is going to do much for us this time"  and with that he pulls his bow and fires a couple arrows into the rustling grasses. "I love shootin' me some goblins."

Waiting for Fritz to ask about the 250 foot shot

Snow takes the quiet moment to shrug her backpack off and put it down safely behind a tree.

"Well theres no getting around it i suppose.", Snow sounds alot more steady than she usually does about looming combat.  She's holding her longspear in a loose one handed grip so she's obviously not going to use it just yet.

"I will try and stay near Mord to provide what support i can."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:48, Fri 23 July 2010.

Glumr fires arrows at the goblins when they are crossing the stream, and then again at them in the bushes.  Unfortunately at that distance the arrows come close but miss their marks.  Glumr curses under his breath.

Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20+2. 250' shot 1: +6 -2 -2.
Glumr rolled 7 using 1d20+2. 250' shot 2: +6 -2 -2.
Glumr rolled 9 using 1d20+3. 150' shot 1: +6 -2 -1.
Glumr rolled 7 using 1d20+3. 150' shot 2: +6 -2 -1.
(the dice hate me)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:34, Fri 23 July 2010.

Snow sighs and shakes her head.

'The more things change... the more they stay the same...', she thinks quietly to herself.

Evidently she's matured a little because she doesnt tease Glumr openly about his aim.

Holly didn't acknowledge Snow immediately, considering her options. She did indeed intend to use the grass and plants around the goblins to her advantage, but wanted more of a chance to use that advantage.

"Barki, Mord, let them charge and then take on anyone who gets through my spell. If I can, I'll help Glumr knock off a few with my sling." With that Holly prepared her spell and waited until the enemy was closer before acting. Slipping the sickle into the ground besides her, in case she lets too many goblins through, she also slips her backpack off and hides behind it.

[Holly intends to cast the Entangle spell when the enemy are clumped together and fairly close, to catch as many as possible...]

21:23, Today: Mord rolled 12 using 1d20. STR bow shot @250 ft.  (+4 - 4=0 mod).
21:24, Today: Mord rolled 19 using 1d20+2. STR bow shot @150 ft.  (+4 - 2= 2 mod).
21:26, Today: Mord rolled 47 using 1d100. 50% miss chance for 150 ft shot.

Mord arcs a couple shots towards the approaching goblins.  Looks like both are near misses. Since they will be closing in a few moments, he slings his bow after the 2nd shot and readies his greatsword.

Init

Goblins 20
Balki 19
Mord 13
Snow 9
Glumr 5
Holly 5


The goblins scurry through the grasses avoiding the occasional Triplefang arrow that zips through the air.  When they get close enough a cry goes out from the hobgoblin, who is clearly their leader.  The goblins spring up launching a volley of javelins.

Two goblins behind the hobgoblin chant some strange arcane words and ghostly red balls fly unerringly into the centers of the chests of Mord and Balki.

The first wave of goblin attacks is devastating to Mord and Balki.  A rain of magic and spears pepper both warriors.  Balki is badly staggered by his wounds, but is still in the fight for now.  Mord absorbs several deep wounds that do not appear to slow him.   Snow's luck is much better as three javelins miss her by a comfortable margin.

Mord takes 11 points of damage total and Balki takes 8.

His wounds send Balki into a rage.  With a terrifying howl he charges recklessly into the the opposite flank of the goblin line.  Holly yells for him to stop, not wanting him to be in the entanglement zone when she casts, but Balki either cannot hear her over his own cries, or ignores the tactical advice.  He leaps at a startled goblin, chopping it down with a massive overhead swing.

Balki charges from P8 to I15 and cuts down goblin2 with 8 points of damage.

I need round 1 actions for all players.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg

"Oh... that was just unfriendly...  This isnt going to go well.", Snow mutters.

Snow moves forward with nimble hops and leaps as she closes the distance to the goblins.

Move to M14

Once she gets into position she starts to cast her spell, Snow Flurries,  creating a cold snap of wind and snow into the midst of several goblins.

Cast Snow Flurry in M17  (Affect 10' Rad)
Goblins K17 L17 N17 and O17
Save vs Will DC 14 to avoid effects
This message was last edited by the player at 06:07, Tue 27 July 2010.

Taking into account where Balki had charged off to, Holly centres the spell on the end of the line, aiming to catch all of the goblins and the hobgoblin in the spread of the gripping plantlife. With spell cast, she moves forward to close the range for her sling. "I hope that holds some of them off", she says to no-one in particular.

[Holly casts Entangle on R17, covering all but the one in combat with Balki. She then moves to P8 to close the range and to support Mord.]

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #210):

Mord isnt sure where the edge of Holly's weeds will be, so he heads toward S9, hoping that he gets closer to their leaders flank without being hindered by the growth.   This should let Snow and Glumr rain down more pain while Balki and I chop our way toward the middle from each end.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:03, Wed 28 July 2010.

Glumr, understanding how Goblins think, decides that if he takes the leader out, the goblin ranks will crumble.  With that thought, he takes a step forward and fires arrows at the hobgoblin.

Glumr moves to M3.
Glumr rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Shot 2: +6 -1 (distance) -2 (rapid).
Glumr rolled 11 using 1d20+3. Shot 1: +6 -1 (distance) -2 (rapid).

The first shot glances off the hobgoblins armor, which changes his stance causing the second to miss.  Glumr utters a growl in disgust.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:10, Wed 28 July 2010.

Snow's spell dazzles the goblins in front of her, which freeze their little minds.  Holly's spell brings the grasses into the fight, rising up to grab both friend and foe alike.

I need Snow and Mord to make reflex saves (DC15) to avoid entanglement.  If Mord succeeds he may take a free 5 ft step out of the effected area.


Goblin1 whacks Balki in the knee with an axe.  Even in his berserk rage Balki's wounds overwhelm him.  He teeters and slumps to the ground.  Goblin7 deftly avoids the coiling grasses and makes his way over to Snow brandishing his axe, but expended too much effort to be able to attack this round.  Goblins8 and 11 were not so lucky.  The grasses root them where they stand.  These goblins throw javelins at Mord.  One hits him in the upper arm and the other glanced off a metal rivet sewn into his new armor.

Balki goes unconscious.  Mord takes 2 damage.

The hobgoblin stubbornly tests his might against the powers of nature and comes up short.  He is unable to get free of the animated grasses.  The two spellcasting goblins agilely retreat out of the magical field.  The last goblin ducks and weaves, slashing at the grasses with his axe, and makes his way forward towards Mord.

I need round 2 action for everyone.

Anyone who ends up entangled may attack (melee or ranged) at -2, or try to break free (DC20 STR check or escape artist).  Casting spells requires a concentration skill roll (DC15).  Movement is at half speed, but you can still double move.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg

Snow's eyes widen as she realizes she's gotten too close to the goblins and is now affected by Holly's spell.

10:31, Today: Snow rolled 6 using 1d20+3. save vs Ref.

"Oh... this is no good...  This is really really no good.", For a bunch of grass and weeds, it was alot stronger than it looked.  Snow mumbles to herself as she draws her dagger to defend herself.

10:36, Today: Snow rolled 2 using 1d20-1. Str check.

Spells would have been alot better, but with weeds pulling her arms, it was unlikely she was going to do any real harm.

10:40, Today: Snow rolled 12 using 1d20+1. Attack Roll.
10:40, Today: Snow rolled 1 using 1d4-1. Damage ?.

Distracted that some of her colleagues are caught in her spell, Holly doesn't load the sling properly, and finds the stone flying wide as she aimed at the closest goblin.

[Holly rolled 2 +2, for AC4 hit. Missed miserably]

Glumr lets an arrow fly at the Hobgoblin and makes his way to the fallen Balki.  In his rush, the arrow nearly hit the Gobli, but didn't. Glumr shouts several Triplefang obscenities.

Glumr moves to I9 I7.
Glumr rolled 10 using 1d20. Shoot at Gob1. +2 + 6.
(forgot to add the bonus into the roller first)


[GM edit: where does this other +2 come from?  You get +2 to damage against favored enemies, but not to hit]
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:20, Mon 02 Aug 2010.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #215):

Mord breaks free of the entangled area

             22:07, Today: Mord rolled 16 using 1d20+2. bust out of weeds.

and moves to W9, attacking the goblin coming toward him, cleaving him mightily with his greataxe.

          22:19, Today: Mord rolled 20 using 1d20+5. Attack goblin in round 2.
          22:20, Today: Mord rolled 10 using 1d10+5. Damage to goblin.

When Holly activates her spell Mord springs back away from the edge of the grasping grasses just in the nick of time.  He meets goblin12 and cuts him down quite convincingly.  Snow isn't quite so lucky.  She's deep in the interior of the magically animated grasses.  They wrap around her legs and hold her in place.  She grips her knife with both hands and rams the tip down at goblin7 but the grasses hamper her too much to land the knife home on goblin flesh.

Goblin1 intercepts Glumr, but has moved too far to attack without throwing caution to the wind.  The grasses swarm all around goblin7, but he continues to elude them.  He swings wildly at Snow with his axe while avoiding the grasses, but misses badly. Goblin8 throws his second-to-last javelin at Holly.   To everyone's surprise it is snatched out of the air by the grasses themselves before it can reach her!  Goblin11 and the hobgoblin throw javelin's at Mord.  One hits him in the leg.  Mord is starting to look like a javelin pincushion.

Mord takes 3 damage.

The spell casting goblins both hum a low repetitive chant while moving their bodies like serpents.

Holly and Mord must make DC11 Will Saves or fall asleep.

I need round 3 actions for everyone.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg

Glumr sees the goblin rushing at him and fires of two quick shots as he takes a step back.  The first just misses but the second hits the goblin in the chest with a resounding thud.

Glumr steps to I6.
Glumr rolled 8 using 1d20+5. Goblin1 - Shot1.
Glumr rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Goblin1 - Shot2.
Glumr rolled 4 using 1d8+3. Arrows Hurt.

Snow fights the goblin, but even if she werent enwrapped in weeds, it would be a challenge.

No modifiers used for entanglement.

10:58, Today: Snow rolled 16 using 1d20. Attack Roll (modify as needed).
10:59, Today: Snow rolled 0 using 1d4-1. Presumed hit.
(Would be a point of damage if you let me use the dagger two handed.)

10:59, Today: Snow rolled 7 using 1d20. Attack Roll. (miss)
10:59, Today: Snow rolled 5 using 1d20. Attack Roll (modify as needed). (miss)

Holly suddenly feels very sleepy, and even though she tries to fight the effect, she goes down in a swoon to lie down on the nice warm grass.

[Holly rolled a 3, which even with her +7 to save against Willpower, she falls into a nice slepp, dreaming of Moonlight no doubt...]

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #220):

Mord leverages the pain of his wounds to scoff at the caster's feeble spell attempt to make him sleep.

               12:18, Today: Mord rolled 17 using 1d20. Will check to stay awake.

Since there is no easy way to get to the chief with his axe, Mord decides to switch back to his bow and take a shot at him.

He curses as the arrow pulls to the right.

                12:23, Today: Mord rolled 9 using 1d20+4. shoot arrow at goblin leader

Goblin7 throws its left arm up reflexively to protect its face from Snow's knife, and the pointy tip plunges into the goblin's arm.

Goblin7 takes 1 damage.  (Why did Snow make 3 attacks this turn?)

One of Glumr's arrows strike his enemy in the body.  The goblin squeals in pain, but battles on.   Gob1 chases the slowly retreating archer, waving the axe in front of it, but Glumr is able to avoid being hit.

Goblin7's has mixed luck.  The grasses finally tangle around its small hips and legs, but it still manages to slash Snow's hip with its axe.  Goblin8 and Goblin11 throw their last javelins at Mord.  The agile warrior avoids them both, but is hit in the shoulder by the hobgoblin's javelin.  The magical goblins send two more of their evil red spheres, one after Snow and one after Mord.  Both land directly into the center of our heroes' chests, causing pain, shortness of breath and possibly cracked ribs.

Mord takes 5 damage and Snow takes 6.

I need round 4 actions for Mord, Snow, and Glumr.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg

Mord is down to 6 hit points.  May I suggest drinking a healing potion (1D8+1 HP), Raging (+4 temp HP, but -2AC), or both?

Snow might also benefit from a healing potion as she is down to 5 HP.  However, I strongly advise against drinking one right now, since it would draw an attack of opportunity.

misread...?

for some reason i thought you said I need 3 rounds of actions for everyone....

I was puzzled but just made three attacks cause of that, the first one is the only one that hit regardless.

Presume she misses the next two rounds if you want, the fight isnt going to be won or loss on what Snow does at the moment tied up as she is...
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Tue 03 Aug 2010.

Snow figures she isnt going to win this knife fight, melee combat is not her strong suit, especially when she's by herself and wrapped up with weeds.

Snow takes the slash to the hip, as if the Goblin had just cut her open with a mortal wound.  There was a real enough injury to help her along on her bluff as she staggers and drops her dagger, collapsing in a helpless heap at the goblin's feet looking for all the world as if she were dying or already dead.

01:33, Today: Snow rolled 22 using 1d20+8. Play Dead. 
No modifiers were taken on the bluff for circumstances, (the knife injury the goblin inflicted to help the act along.)

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #226):

Mord will drink a potion in the next round and take another arrow shot if he can do both, or just drink if he cant.
14:03, Today: Mord rolled 9 using 1d8+1. healing pot for Mord round 4.

When able to shoot (round 4 or round 5) assuming no one closes to melee range
14:04, Today: Mord rolled 14 using 1d20+4. shoot arrow at goblin leader.
14:05, Today: Mord rolled 6 using 1d6+2. dmg to goblin leader.

Glumr takes a step back and haphazardly fires two arrows at the goblin, both missiles flying harmlessly past.

Glumr rolled 7 using 1d20+5. Shot2 to Golbin1.
Glumr rolled 10 using 1d20+5. Shoot Golbin1.

Mord guzzles down a potion (a standard action, so attacking will have to wait 'til next round) to great effect, revitalizing him for further battle.  Snow puts on an award winning performance faking her own death.  Glumr continues to retreat.

Goblin1, so anxious to chop Glumr to bits, trips over its own boots and clatters to the ground in a heap, barely holding onto its axe.  Goblin7 believes it has done Snow in and switches to throwing javelins at Mord, as does the hobgoblin (tossing its last javelin).  Mord skillfully avoids one and deflects the other.  Goblins 8 and 11 are now out of ammunition, so they switch to the brutally hard task of getting free of these tenacious weeds.  It's no use.  Goblins 9 and 10 make their way around the outside of the entanglement zone, rudely stepping off the bottom edge of the map.  They don't look like they're in any great hurry.

I need round 5 actions for Mord, Snow, and Glumr.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg

Glumr fires his bow and lands an arrow into the fallen Goblin's back, finishing it off. He pulls a second arrow from his quiver and let's if fly at Snow's goblin.  It hits it squarely in the head, dropping it to the ground dead.  Glumr grins.

Glumr rolled 18 using 1d20+5. Shoot Goblin1.
Glumr rolled 4 using 1d8+3.
Glumr rolled 15 using 1d20+4. Shoot Goblin7.
Glumr rolled 7 using 1d8+2. Arrows Hurt.

Once the goblin turns away, Snow quickly sips down a healing potion, it taste a little stale and weak but still seems to being working at least a little as the bleeding stops and she feels better.

11:20, Today: Snow rolled 3 using 1d8+1. Healin potion.
3 of 6 damage healed

She makes an effort to recover her dagger, now that the attentions been taken off her.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:23, Wed 04 Aug 2010.

We'll say you can be stealthy enough with the potion to go unnoticed, but getting and readying the knife would be a Hide or Move Silent DC10 next round.  Even if you fail to be stealthy you'll still be able to ready the knife (unless you roll critically fail).  Don't forget you're at -4 DEX while entangled, which unfortunately effects both skills.

[DM Edit:  Actually, you don't have to be stealthy about it.  The goblin next to Snow has been shot dead.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:18, Wed 04 Aug 2010.

Out of javelins and shot, the Hobgoblin tries its hand at diplomacy.  In broken clan tongue he shouts to Mord  "We surrender if you let us go."

The spell casters continue to make their way slowly around the perimeter of the entanglement.

Well with the goblin dead Snow will make an effort to pull free to leave the field of entanglement.

Glumr runs over to the fallen Balki, pulling out one of his potions to revive the fallen friend.

Glumr double moves to I14. (full turn action)
Will feed potion to Balki next round

Wait ... it's a DC 20 Strength check to get loose?  okay Snow cant get loose since she's at a -1 Strength.  She continues to 'play dead' for now, trying to keep an eye on the spell casters, they're the threat as far as Snow is Concerned.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #231):

Mord doesnt care about the hobgoblins request to surrender.  There are still several more goblins who aren't free now but will be soon and most of us are badly injured.  He sticks with his original plan and pumps 6 points of arrow dmg into the hobgoblin (previously rolled)

Mord is pretty much planning to keep shooting til the entangle spell ends, we're down to only 1-2 alive instead of like 7-8, or he runs out of arrows--whichever comes first.

Mord has already fired that arrow and injured the hobgoblin (round 5) before the hobgoblin attempted to surrender. (round 6)

If you want to continue firing you need to roll another attack roll (round 6)

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #240):

Mord shoots at the leader again (round 6).  A light hit if it hits at all:
         11:52, Today: Mord rolled 13 using 1d20+4. Shoot arrow at goblin leader.
         11:53, Today: Mord rolled 3 using 1d6+2.

You do have a small chance.  You can use escape artist untrained.  Snow would have a 10% chance of making a DC20 roll for this.  Not great, but better than 0%.  Playing dead might still be the best plan.

Upon seeing their leader shot down, the two spell casting goblins hightail it back towards the stream.  Goblins 8 and 11 struggle in vain to escpae the grasses.  Goblins 3-6 are stirring now, but they're entangled, holding no weapons and look totally dazed.  They're no threat yet.  Glumr moves to Balki's side and will begin administering healing potion next round.

If Snow is planning to continue playing dead the only round 7 action I need is Mord's.

http://zachery.path.med.umich....blin_battle2_map.jpg
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:10, Tue 10 Aug 2010.

She's playing dead till she can get untangled.

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #243):

Mord take a shot a goblin 8 and misses horribly.
          00:37, Today: Mord rolled 7 using 1d20+4.

The goblins fail to escape the entangling grasses this round too.  The Goldenpoint healing potion magically mends enough of Balki's wounds to get him back on his feet.

In an attempt to speed up this rather dull portion of the fight I'd like round 8, 9 , and 10 actions for Mord, and Glumr.

Mord regains his composure a bit, ignoring the pain of his wounds and starts raining death with his bow.  One by one, 3 goblins suffer grievous wounds from his arrows.   "Chuck spears at me will you?!" he roars as his arrows start to fly.

Round 8  - shoots arrow at Goblin 8
            10:36, Today: Mord rolled 19 using 1d20+4. R8 shoot Goblin 8.
            10:36, Today: Mord rolled 8 using 1d6+2. R8 dmg Gob 8.

Round 9 - shoot arrow at Goblin 6
            10:39, Today: Mord rolled 22 using 1d20+4. R9 Shoot Gob 6.
            10:40, Today: Mord rolled 8 using 1d6+2. R9 dmg Gob 6.

Round 10 - shoot arrow at Goblin 5
             10:42, Today: Mord rolled 14 using 1d20+4. R10 shoot at Gob 5.
             10:43, Today: Mord rolled 6 using 1d6+2. R10 dmg on Gob 5.

Goblins that are snow flurried, are unconscious for 2d4 rounds, blind for d4 rounds and stunned for one more round.  So even if they wake up they're blind and you have a few more rounds advantage before they fade.

In reply to Snow (msg #248):

So be it, some of them are never going to wake up.

Yep.  Those grayed out goblins were treated as unconscious before, but as of round 7 they were stunned and blinded.  Thanks to a typo I listed them as no "treat" (which I guess is also true), but I meant they were no threat.  lol

Once we have Glumr's actions (He's off today) I'll sort through which goblins got shot down.  My guess is the fight will be over.

Just in time for Holly to wake up!

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #250):

Note that I let Gob 11 alone intentionally because he's not close enough to reach anybody but me in a combat round, so when entangle ends, my axe kinda hopes he does.

Glumr launches a volley of arrows at the nearest goblins.

Round 8  - shoots arrow at Goblin 3
     Glumr rolled 8 using 1d20+7. Shoot Goblin 3, Shot 1 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Glumr rolled 23 using 1d20+7. Critical Failure?.
     Glumr rolled 12 using 1d20+7. Shoot Goblin 3, Shot 2 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Not sure if this is a hit.  What's his trapped AC?

Round 9 - shoot arrow at Goblin
     Glumr rolled 8 using 1d20+7. Shoot Goblin 4, Shot 1 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Glumr rolled 20 using 1d20+7. Shoot Goblin 4, Shot 2 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Glumr rolled 3 using 1d8+2. Goblin 4 Arrow Pain.
     Guessing he's still standing.

Round 10 - shoot arrow at Goblin
     Glumr rolled 8 using 1d20+2. Shoot Goblin 4, Shot 1 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Glumr rolled 18 using 1d20+2. Shoot Goblin 4, Shot 2 : +6 +1 +2 -2.
     Glumr rolled 10 using 1d8+2. Goblin 4 dies.
     He is no longer standing.

Round 8
Mord shootgoblin 8 in the head with an arrow, dropping in into the grasses.    Glumr's shots miss their marks.

Note to Glumr: Your point blank to hit is +5 (+2 BAB, +4 DEX, +1 PB, -2 Rapidshot)  There is no bonus to hit for favored enemy.
Note to Mord:  Your arrows do 1D8+2 damage

Round 9
Mord takes careful aim and picks off the next goblin in line with a shot to the chest.  One of Glumr's shots hits the nearest goblin.  It is now aware of what's going on, but can't seem to see anything.  Balki joins in on the target practice, taking goblin4 out with a sling stone to the noggin.

Note to Glumr:  You do 1D8+3 to goblins within 30 feet.  (+2 favored enemy, +1 PB)

Round 10
Mord shoots goblin5 in the hip hard enough to take him down and out of the fight.  Glumr finishes off the nearest goblin with a shot through the ear.  Balki takes down the last goblin with another deadly sling stone hit.



For all you know Snow has been bleeding to death all this time.  I'm a little disappointed that no one tried to save her.  Of course, as it turns out she's OK.  She was just faking, but none of you knew that.  She struggles to get to her feet but the grasses pull pull back down, drawing all manner of foul language.

Someone wakes Holly, who spends a moment willing away the effects of her entangle spell.  Snow is finally able to rejoin the group.

Taking a quick survey of the damage, Mord and Balki are badly hurt, but are both able to travel.  Snow is also injured, though not as badly.

Balki thanks Glumr for the potion rescue and then says
"I'm not too keen on sticking around here.  Two of those little grubbers got away.  They might be back with reinforcements.  We should keep moving."
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:44, Fri 13 Aug 2010.

Snow doesnt say much, she doesnt look happy at all and decides not to vent it on what she likes to think was an accident on Holly's part.  She brushes away bits of dirt and grass off herself as she joins her cousins.

Balki guides you out and away from the stream that he admits he was going to follow to find his way.

"As long as I keep the rise at this side of the valley in sight I should be able to get back to the camp alright," he says.

It doesn't fill you with confidence.  You end up traveling until after nightfall.  Balki sits down on a rock at the top of a hill.  The moon is noticeably smaller than it was the night before and light clouds throw ghostly shadows across unfamiliar terrain.  Balki rests and drinks some water.  You can't help but notice that he's been coughing blood the last couple of hours.  Traveling isn't doing his wounds any good.

"Are you sure you know where you're going?" Mord asks Balki.

Balki nods.

"We're not far.  We shouldn't camp apart from the group."

He's right.  Less than an hour later your tired group comes upon Tora Triplefang's campsite.  You are met first by a watch guard.  He goes to fetch Tora.  There's an unlit fire pit here and little else to mark it as a camp.  What few warriors you can see are bedded down in the tall grasses and are asleep or resting.  They look like they travel very light, and like your own group they sleep in their light armor.  Tora and Harj greet your group and guide you off away from the camp a ways so your conversation will not disturb those sleeping.

"Who are these people?" asks Tora.

"They are young Triplefang explorers.  They are here to tell you about encounters with goblins.  In fact, we fought some on the way here."

Balki introduces you each to Tora and Harj and reports briefly on the earlier fight.  Tora is quite small for a warrior.  It's hard to make out her features in the dark apart from long, impressive hair.  Harj is a tall man, not armored like the others.  He is dressed in a simple robe that is cut to be armless and slit below the crotch in the front and back.  It is tied close to the body and legs almost like pants. Harj examines your wounds while you speak to Tora.

"I apologize for Balki.  He's a good runner and follows orders well, but he never should have let you fight goblins at 3-to-1.  You youngsters will go away with the wrong impression.  You were very lucky not to lose anyone.  Even if you were all trained warriors you shouldn't fight against such odds.  Foolishly pressing your luck like that hurts the Triplefang," scolds Tora.

Balki quietly accepts his admonishment.

Harj casts Cure Light Wounds on Mord and Balki, and Cure Minor Wounds on Snow.

Balki gains 5 points of health.  Mord gains 3 points.  Snow gains 1 point.

"So, tell me about your other encounters with the goblins," Tora says.

Snow silently agrees with Tora, but would never publically admit it.  It would be a sign of weakness, and probably contradict anything her cousins were about to say.

"Thank you.", is about as verbose as she gets at the moment, for the cure spells.

GLumr steps forward to address Tora.  "You are probably right Tora.  We intended to surprise the group but when we were spotted early on, it was a tough fight."  Glumr explains. "We fought goblins before.  They were tracking us and we set up a little ambush for them.  All and all that was easy work.  Today we just werent on top of our game.  I personally cant stand the little creatures. "
This message was last edited by the player at 13:25, Mon 16 Aug 2010.

"Obad-Hai was with us, but some people forgot what the plan was, so some got into difficulties. Without our horses, we were unable to run, so we took a good position and laid a trap." Holly said, not trying to labour the point that the others had not listened to her, or the fact she had fallen asleep even though she had been taught how to resist that type of spell.

"Next time, when you *do* have your horses and you see the goblins outnumber you 3-to-1, don't think.  Just do as I say and RUN.  I look forward to the day you pass this advice to my grandchildren."



"I hope that isn't what you came all this way to tell me."

"No ma'am"  Glumr says a bit taken back "This was simply to answer your question about the other goblins we have encountered.  The reason we came all this way is to tell you about some Trolls we found."  And with that Glumr re-accounts their trip to Crim including the wild cat marks and the troll creating ceremony and shrine.

Glumr tells Tora about the mark on the wildcats, but it's too dark to draw the symbol out. He goes to his saddlebag and pulls out the light cylinder from the trog temple.  It gives off enough light that everyone can see the symbol but is dim enough not to give away your location from a distance.

@<

"We've seen that mark.  It's one of the goblins' new gods," says Tora.

"One of the *old* gods, actually," Harj corrects. "That's the mark of Krammishir, ancient enemy of Obad-Hai, the god of unnature."

Tora gives Harj an odd look.

Glumr continues telling about the shrine and the trolls.

"It's good that you destroyed the trolls.  The last thing we need is those monsters in Triplefang lands.  I wonder if we can use the shrine as a trap.  I doubt the goblins know that you've desecrated it yet.  Where exactly is this shrine?"

Holly notices the look, and wonders what it means for Harj. She was happy to wait for a quiet moment to talk with Harj, and introduce herself.

Meanwhile, she let Glumr indicate the direction to the shrine, only willing to add anything if she could make the directions clearer.

"It's near my family's farm" Glumr says and tries to explain as best as he can the route to get there.

Snow unrolls a map from her scroll case, the one she draws on in her free time, a journal of ther travels.

"We're... Here. On the map.  The Trolls were trying to be created... here.", she points it out in the faded lighting being provided.  It's a simple map, mostly made with landmarks of things she's seen in travel, and definitely not to scale, but it's better than drawing in the mud with a stick."

"Thank you Cousin... Most helpful."  Glumr says to her.

Tora examines the map and notes the locations mentioned.

"In the morning I'll send a runner up that way to look for it.   Would you be willing to show your pictures to the runner tomorrow?"

"Thank you for bringing us this information.  Did you have any questions for us?" Tora asks.

Snow nods slowly thinking, "I can certainly show them the map tommorow, though if it's useful to you, i can copy my map for you.  I believe I have some blank sheets i can spare for the task.  I'll need more lighting though.

"Oh, no thank you.  One less thing to carry.  I'll keep it in my mind,"  she says to Snow.

Seeing that you have no questions Tora sets about showing you each specifically where to sleep.  The attention to detail strikes you as a little obsessive.  Things do work out, however.  The night passes peacefully, so peacefully in fact that it feels like certain sounds are missing.  You can feel free to take the abnormal quiet as pleasant or unsettling.  Either way you are rousted earlier in the morning than you are used to, and since there is no cooking fire allowed you decide to set off back towards Crim just after dawn.  Holly has a short conversation with Harj, and the rest of you say your good-byes to the Triplefang warriors, scouts, and runners.


Tora simply cannot let you go without giving you a mission of sorts.

"You know, we've got who you see here," Tora refers to her dozen. "And about 20 reserves, but I could do with two other units like mine down here to really keep the south safe.  If you youngsters have Heinrich's ear in some way, please slip the idea into it for me.  Trouble is leadership.  We'd need two more really sharp tacticians with a talent for command.  I've taught my troops well, but it would be a vast stretch to say more than one of them would make the sort of leader we need down here.  Keep an eye out for someone of this rare breed and send 'em to me if he or she can be spared."

Snow sleeps good.  Nice quiet is something that does not keep her up, and its as close to time under a solid roof as shes going to get.  She doesnt look a gift horse in the mouth.

WHen they part she does look at Mord and Glumr a little worried, they were both young... and ambitious.  Either would do well in the role of leadership, or at least they might think they would.

Snow just nods to Tora's request, "I wont forget.", she comments simply.  It was dark making it hard to see if Mord or Glumr were tempted in the least.

"It may be a bit before we see Heinrich again, as we are traveling away from our village.  However when we do see him, we will give him your message Tora."  Glumr says to her.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Tue 24 Aug 2010.

Even though you get a very early start, the trip back to Crim takes you 'til nightfall.  You take a wide arc north before curling back east and south to give the area where you encountered the goblins on the way to Tora's camp a wide birth.  It pays off in a safe trip.  The four of you arrive in Crim exhausted from two days of over-traveling.  Mord has stoically toughed out the journey with serious injuries.  He's been even quieter than usual, which is unnerving.

It would be a good idea to rest in Crim a full day and heal Mord.  He needs at least one cure light wounds, maybe two.  Snow would probably be fine with just a full day of rest.

With everyone back in the village, and relatively safe, Holly quickly moves to Mord and casts her most powerful healing spell over him. Checking to see how effective it had been, she considers whether to cast again. Seeing the wounds bind nicely, she asks him, "Are the any other wounds less obvious Mord? I have a few lesser spells if you need them". Holly knows she could use her healing spells, but running her hands over Mord might send the wrong impression.

[Cast CLW, for total of 10HP recovered. Think that should do it!]

"Well that was a near disastrous little side trek we took.  Blessings to Ehlonna that we didnt get taken down by those shifty little goblins. "  Glumr says to his cousins.  "Maybe we should just stick to our current goal of the tomb moving forward.  Once we become 'legends' we should be better equipped to deal with such things as goblin battles and what not.  What say you all?"

After a full day of rest in Crim you're ready to continue your journey.  When you first set out it's a beautiful, clear, sunny day with songbirds chirping.  The floating eye incorporates some of their little whistles and warbles into full length songs that seem to be of its own spontaneous creation.  It's very hard not to be in a good mood fully rested, tummy full of fresh lunch, riding in comfort, warmed by perfect weather, and regaled by cheerful tunes.  It isn't long before Triplefang farms and settlements become scarce.  You pass occasional evidence of smaller nomad clans in the area, but you don't encounter any directly.  There's no border out here, but you all get the sense that you have departed Triplefang lands.

You set up camp on the first night and have a short discussion about Tora's methods.  There's no reason to forego a campfire, so you set up your standard campsite.  It's a lot easier to find trees in this area.  It's not exactly a forest, but it looks like it has been well over 10 years since there's been a wildfire in these parts.  The ground is more moist here.  You think it would make good farmland, but there are no villages around.

Your watch goes uneventfully on the first night. and you set off again the next day leisurely late.  You are still amazed at how much more ground you can cover on horseback.  By afternoon you come across an old north-south road that is still in very good condition.  It's wide enough for two carts and has bridges wide enough for a single wagon over creeks and small riverbeds.  Travel along the road is very easy and you have no doubts about finding your way to Kammarra.

The little fishing village had to have been a larger town at some point to warrant the creation of such a nice road, which ends here.  Now it is little more than a few storage barns, a market (which is closed down right now), docks and piers, and a public house.

You meet Erling Ferrisedan, who runs the public house.  He's a short stocky weather-beaten man with thick fingers who wears a long thick leather smock.  They serve a small selection of large, fresh water fish that you've never tried before, as well as bread, some oily spreads, and ale from a local brewery that they call Pete's Tremendous.

You also meet Dalla Ferrisedan, a Ferrier who is willing to take you across the misty Loch to Utsk for 5 silvers apiece.  Her boat is too small to take the horses too.  (You *might* be able to persuade her to take Moonlight).  She says they'll look after your horses while you're in Rankor Heights.

There is, of course, a land route around the Loch.  The locals say it's much slower and dangerous.  You'd want to hire a guide.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:32, Thu 26 Aug 2010.

Holly would normally have no quaalms about leaving the dun here in the village, but would find it difficult to leave Moonlight behind. She knew that he could probably make his own way around the Loch safely if he wanted to, but she had to admit, leaving him to go and talk to Tora had hurt her.

"I would like to go around. We are in no hurry after all, and although the land might be dangerous, I do not want to leave Moonlight here. Harj told me there are many dangers, but with a guide, we could make it." Holly said as they discussed the options. "I'll go with the majority." she adds as she lets the others discuss.

In reply to Holly (msg #276):

Im up for the land route.  Lets talk to a guide and find out about any towns along the way we can count on for supplies if we need it.

Glumr is anxious to get to Rankor heights and to start dealing with trying to get the Tome, but a nice walk around the loch might be enjoyable.  Plus he enjoys having Bella around.  "Doesn't matter to me either way" he says to the group.  "Hopefully with a guide it will be a quiet trip and we wont show up too tattered."  he finishes with a wink and a grin.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:40, Mon 30 Aug 2010.

You're sitting around outside the common house discussing which route to take.



From behind you comes a strange, deep voice.  "Cuma can be your guide."

You turn to see a very tall but somewhat slim, bald man in a very plain, ill-fitting small robe.  His attire is like that of a religious zealot, but he is heavily tattooed.

"Cuma knows the evils.  Cuma knows the darkness.  Also, customs in city."

The man strikes a dramatic pose which makes him look even larger.

"YOU"

"NEED"

"CUMA!"

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #279):

Mord eyes Cuma's display for a moment and then counters "Need? I don't think so, but a guide would be useful... tell us something about the farms and villages between here and Rankor and maybe we will discuss the cost of your services"

"West shores of Loch Grmikel too close to darkness.  Dangerous.  Bad place for farms.  No human villages.  Ferrisedan live south of Loch Grmikel.  Utsk is town between Kammarra and City.  Utsk built in the light on southern shore of Loch.  Many farms and ranches there."

In reply to Fritzholm (msg #281):

Glumr rolls a smoke while listening to Cuma.  He lights it and blows a smoke ring and blows smaller ones through it.