So the party has made its way cautiously through the forest; the weather has been kind and sunlight pours through any gap in the canopy. Rhaskos takes his time to check his direction of travel, correcting for every detour to avoid some dense thicket or navigate a steep slope.

By mid afternoon you are nearing the target location. In places the terrain drops off to the West and you glimpse areas of more open lowlands.

(Team Perception - 51 - some at least make it) You are approaching the target, Around you there are signs of activity - Rhaskos points out some places where boughs have been cut, firewood collected. Up ahead there is the forest edge.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 1):

This is the point where Sanjar may want to call a moment's pause to cast any magic he wants to ensure is set up; else he might wait until one or more people scout forward to try and get a view on what lies beyond the trees.

So what's the plan?

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 2):

People have been here recently. I am going to check the fires, cut bushes and so on. I want to see if I can estimate the number of people who were here'.

Rhaskos is going to search the abandoned camp for any clues of the size of the party who were here, about what they had either, and which direction they moved off in - and how long ago.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 3):

Whoah! no mention of an abandoned camp. Just evidence of log cutting etc - human hand at work on the edge the woods. you have not yet reached the end of the trees beyond which is the supposed camp

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 4):

but you CAN make a track roll

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 5):

Rhaskos carefully inspects the bushes, trees and ground.

Skill test: Tracking (51). Rhaskos rolls 90. Sorry.

Rhaksos looks up.

'Haven't a clue.'

As we're now chancing a run in with people, Kordan unlimbers his bow and travels with an arrow half-cocked, while scanning the surroundings for ambush.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 7):

Tanek readies his sling with a stone in it.
Shoot first, ask questions later.

Sanjar will indeed take a moment to cast a protective warding over the party.  He puts away his bow and the arrow he had at the ready, rubbing his hands together and flexing his fingers for a moment before beginning the incantation and touching each member of the group in turn when he reached their point in the incantation.

20:55, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 48 using 1d100. Spellcasting: 72.

"With so many, we have perhaps half an hour before this shielding is expended." he says softly, as he turns back towards the direction of man-sign and readies his bow once again.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 9):

[ooc]

Since it seems a pertinent time...

Are we using the Legend version of DR (only blocks damage lower than the intensity, does nothing if exceeded) or the RQ6 one (it's magical armor and always applies, no matter how much damage comes in, circumvent armor maneuver can circumvent physical OR magical, but not both with the same maneuver)?

[/ooc]

Orinastron looks askance at Tanek and winks,  "Seriously Tanek, a sling?  Just be careful you don't hit one of us with that thing.  I hope that's not your breech cloth you're using to lob those stones"

Turning to Sanjar,  "I thank you for including me in your ward.  I did not expect it given the circumstances of our meeting.  I hope I may repay the favour in turn."

Orinastron will string his bow too.   "So, what now?  Shall we push on down the slope towards the camp or send someone ahead to scout it out?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:38, Thu 24 Jan 2013.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 10):



RQ6

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 11):



I'll try and paint the picture a little better.

From the sea you spotted something on the bluffs above the beach, and given you would have been a couple of KM out at least, that means it is something substantial. too far to make it out, but the idea there may be a camp or settlement is a reasonable conclusion in relation to the fact it appeared there's a biggish vessel (a galley) drawn up on the beach below it (ie overlooked from the bluffs).

While in the forest you are on higher ground than the beach, but the 'camp' may be on the same level as you - and just out there beyond the trees. where you are standing, still within the forest, shows the hallmarks of human activity - the first you have seen in three hours of moving trough the forest.

What is needed is statement of who is going to move closer to the edge of the forest about 50-80m away to get a good view of what is beyond, if you are moving as a group or sending a scout forward.

either way, and assuming you are not sauntering along whistling a tune, make me a stealth roll, one team test for all those creeping forward.

You can of course not move forward but scout around a bit more, follow the forest directly West as it flows down to lower ground before petering out some distance back from the beach, and make your way to where the 'boat' is instead.

Sanjar does not mind admitting he is neither terribly stealthy nor terribly interested in fighting anyone he doesn't have to.  He 'would' like to know more about both the the beached vessel and the assumed encampment.  The order of investigation is not of great concern to him, indeed all is quite secondary to staying his usual vibrant and very much alive self.  He will defer tactical leadership to Kordan, and either stay if stealth is desired or accompany if it is not.  Either way he is at once perhaps a tad cowardly ( he calls it prudence ) and aggressive in what he wants to see achieved and obvious unconcern with bloodshed so long as it is none of our own.

Orinastron receives a smile and a polite nod.  "Just remember who keeps you alive, and see I never regret doing so." he says, eyes bright with amusement.  Now that Orinastron is a free man the treatment he receives from Sanjar has transformed.  Indeed Sanjar spoke quite freely about being nonchalantly willing to sacrifice Orinastron or any of the other slaves/captives to perform augmented magic previously.  He obviously remains willing to do so to Hebdomar if he doesn't live up to expectations.  Orinastron should be keenly aware that his freedom has granted him 'personhood' to Sanjar, because the difference is obvious and profound.

He then turns to Kordan, awaiting a decision in an easy and unhurried manner.  "Which do you think would be less guarded?  An encampment or a ship?  Indeed were I so situated I should not like to lose either to an enemy..." he adds in a thoughtful tone.

A substantive and boosting change for Sanjar!

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 14):

"Would depend upon how they see their status here.  Be this a temporary encampment and they'll be using the ship to leave in the near future?  Then the ship be most guarded.  If this be a permanent settlement, and the ship a resource, then the camp be the most guarded.

The condition of the ship may give insight, if it's well-kept and barnacle free, especially if there be crew working upon it, then they be expecting to leave at some point.

In any case, we have some small time of protection.  If we be sending Rhaskos ahead to scout, he should make haste and return quickly.  If not, then let's go."

Orinastron shrugs, "The camp seems closest, the beach is on the far side unless we try and circle around... Perhaps we should start with the camp?  As we're scouting I don't think it makes sense for us all to blunder around - there is more risk of us being heard or seen.  I'm happy to go ahead but confess I have no particular skill in sneaking around.

"Alternatively, is it obvious where they get their fresh water from?  If it's outside the camp then we might have the opportunity to take a prisoner for questioning who would ultimately be missed, of course"

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 17):

Rhaskos thinks for a while: If they've come by boat, then they'll guard the boat most carefully. If they lose that, then they have no line of retreat. The camp may be a smaller group, but more likely to expect trouble as they are further into unfamiliar territory.'

'I'd be happier scouting with another pair of eyes at my back - in woods, you can be surprised in an instant. Two can move almost as fast as one, and nearly as quiet. We can move to the edge of the tree line, and see. If we can get a better view of the camp. Anyone care to come with me?'

Rhaskos prepares to move quietly - he drops his pack and other equipment and readies only a javelin, knife and waterskin.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 18):

I'll make a secret roll for Rhaskos' stealth. It'll be modified due to the foliage and cover.

Rhaskos' stealth roll will be applied on a team basis to anyone who goes with him.

Rhaskos, make me a Perception roll.

Anyone joining Rhaskos at the forest edge can make additional perception rolls of their own, in case they spot additional information
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:04, Thu 24 Jan 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 19):

Rhaksos checks the tree line carefully as he approaches.

Perception test (61) - roll is 10

My stealth is default and my DEX+INT isn't anything to be overly proud about.  If nobody else volunteers, however, I'll follow along behind Rhaskos from a slight distance to at least cover him if something-bad-happens(tm).

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 21):

(Lotta activity today!)

#11

Tanek chuckles at Oriniastron and says with a grin, "No it's not an old breechclout, you can clearly see that the pouch on this thing isn't large enough to hold my stones.  Come to think of it, maybe it used to belong to you?"

#21
I am just as worthless at stealth as Kordan and am happy to provide cover with my sling.

[ooc @Tanek - ROFL! /ooc]

Orinastron will take off his helm and pass it to Tanek, "Don't know about your stones but you can hold my helmet.  Here, I'm pretty quick on my feet, I'll go with Rhaskos. I might not be able to sneak about like him but I'll outrun him if we have to come back in a hurry and I guess that's what matters, hey Rhaskos!?".

Orinastron will leave his buckler and helm with the group, taking his bow, arrows and sword.  He will join Rhaskos at the very edge of the forest and see what he can see...

19:32, Today: Orinastron rolled 98 using 1d100. Perception (45).

"Wow.  It's absolutely deserted.  This should be easy.  Come on Rhaskos"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:52, Fri 25 Jan 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 23):

Rhaskos picks his way carefully to the forest edge; Tanek and Orinastron go with him, following the path the stealthy hunter has chosen, and Kordan hangs back just behind ready in case of trouble.

Peering between the leaves and boughs, you can see in front of you an area of level ground by the sea, which slopes off to the left down towards the beaches.

The ground has been cleared of brush and small trees, and in the middle of the picture in front of you is a stockade. It is more or less circular, surrounded by a shallow ditch, the earth heaped up behind and topped with a palisade that is little more than a fence of rough-hewn stakes. The whole thing is maybe 30-40m across, and 65m from your vantage point. It looks like the gate - which is just that, a swing gate - is on the left (West) side facing the beaches

Above the fence you can see the head and shoulders of two individuals, clearly standing on the parapet.

Outside the stockade and standing well above the height of the palisade is a T-shaped timber construction, on which something large and feathery has been fixed, as if crucified, facing West. If it is a bird, it is clearly massive.

Rhaskos' Perception roll - "it looks like a bird, but it's bigger than me," he whispers. "And you know what? - it's got a human head"

Tanek - Perception roll

Tanek and Orinastron - Lore (Tactics and Drill)

When telling me what you do next, let me know how long you will observe for before moving on to next actions.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 24):

Rhaskos stays very, very still for no more than two minutes, trying to see if the parapet guards have a patrol routine, or are just standing watch. He'll use that time to inspect the palisade for obvious gaps, and the gate for the position of hinges etc. He'll also scan the ground for any signs of well-worn paths away from the encampment into the trees; he's thinking about where they are getting water from - in his mind, they're too near the beach here to have dug a well inside the palisade

At the end of this time, he'll motion the others to move back further into the shadows of the tree line, where they'll be out of sight. He plans to keep watching the guards as he does so for any obvious signs of being spotted.

00:57, Today: Orinastron rolled 100 using 1d100. Lore (Tactics & Drill) (30).

Uh-oh.

[ooc It's all or nothing with Orinastron... 2 crits on the Foamfollower and 2 fumbles here... /ooc]

"They're a marching band"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:01, Fri 25 Jan 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 26):

Rhaksos starts moving gently away from this obvious arrow-magnet standing next to him...

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 27):

06:45, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 53 using 1d100. Lore (Tactics & Drill) (24).
06:44, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 33 using 1d100. Perception (31).

"This looks rather familiar.  I know there's something I should be noticing, but I just can't put my finger on it."

I'll move back into the shadowed area as Rhaskos indicates.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 25):

Well in the couple of minutes you scan the scene, nothing changes. The two figures visible seem to be pretty at ease, and they are not acting like they are on a patrol circuit.

The stakes for the palisade are all freshly cut (not weathered), and they are not entirely regular so you would expect there are small gaps between them unless they have been packed with something.

There's obviously a trail from the where the gate is leading out, but it's not obvious from 65m away where it goes. Likewise the gate is side on to you, so other than the fact it looks like a simply swing gate (basically a wide door), you can't get any more info from here.

Kordan probably isn't far enough up to see, but can Rhaskos make out nationality from this far away?

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 30):

He can't, there's nothing on view that gives that away.

[OOC: 19:17, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 80 using 1d100. Perception: 30. ]

Sanjar had stepped forward a bit with the others, only just far enough to get a glimpse, then turned to face to play rear-guard while waiting on the others.  When the retreat begins he follows along quietly, continuing his rear-guard action.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 32):

OK, everyone except Kordan has now followed Rhaskos to the forest edge, taken a look and then moved away back out of possible sight from the stockade to consider next step. Time to consider what that is.

Sanjar's spells still have nearly an hour left to run, as at Rhasos' behest only a couple of minutes was spent on observation. So far you are confident you have not been detected.

It is moving into late afternoon, maybe equivalent of 5pm. There are roughly 2 hours until dark.

Orinastron asks the others, "What exactly is our intent here?  I understand that Safra wants revenge for her father Prishad's murder but what exactly do we envisage that to entail?  If that vessel is Haliskome's do we just head down their and slay everyone or does she expect us to recover Haliskome for a more 'personal' revenge?

"It occurs to me that they have the advantage of an encampment and numbers.  It would be foolish simply to assault their camp.  We have the advantage of surprise and their not knowing our numbers.  If we are to attack this gang then stealth and attrition may be our most favourable strategy.  Take one of them here, another there.  Wittle their numbers down, worry them.  A stand-up fight will go against us.  Whatever we choose to do before they are aware of us should be whatever we can do to archive the maximum impact.  For example, if we can incapacitate their boat then they are stranded here until they can make repairs and we can shave their numbers and their resolve more at our leisure.  If we do this right they will,feel under siege by unknown assailants and it so then they who must come out to us rather than the reverse.

"Should we, for example start by waiting till dark then scout their vessel, confirm it is Haliskome's and then sabotage it... However that is done I don't know but Kordan will."

[OOC:

- Can I get any kind of a lore check or the like concerning the feathery creature that is crucified by the fort?

- Perhaps a chance to get a better look at it?  Is it alive?

/OOC]

Sanjar nods towards Orinastron, stroking the charms woven into his beard as he considers his own words.  "Let us set about here, keeping a careful watch for comings and goings from the fort during the daylight.  I also am quite curious about the creature that we saw crucified by the fort.  It speaks to happenings here that are more deep and intricate than those of which we are currently aware.  If we have a chance to ambush a likely party coming or going from the camp, we should take it, but otherwise remain out of sight and wait to see what there is to see.  After dark, we go to take a look at the ship under the cover nightfall.  Right now I think we would have little chance of doing so without being spotted.  And be wary also of the interior.  That thing which is by the fort may have friends, and they may assume we are enemies."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:29, Sun 27 Jan 2013.

Orinastron agrees, "That sounds like a plan.  We'll go have a look at their boat under cover of darkness and in the meantime find a good spot from the treeline from which we can watch comings and goings over the course of tomorrow to try and determine of there is a pattern to their movements.  Then if there is a foraging or water party we can ambush it."

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 36):

Rhaksos kicks the ground at his feet for a while.

If we were hunting, and these people our quarry, then I would want them not to know about our existence until the last possible moment. If we sabotage their boat, doesn't that tell them we're here?

I think we should take a look at their numbers down by the boat, but leave them in peace for a while. The fort-thing here is where their strength lies, and we should keep our eyes here for any advantage.

I'm in favour of whittling down their strength little by little, but they'll be wary - that bird was left as a warning to others of its kind, which they clearly expect to come back. So any foraging party is going to be ready for trouble when it leaves the camp. We'd be well-advised to keep an eye on the skies, too.

But our biggest advantage at the moment is that they have split their numbers. We need to keep that advantage for as long as we can before they know we're here for sure.

For Rhaksos, this amounts to a major speech, so he gives a quick smile then returns to kicking the ground.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:27, Sun 27 Jan 2013.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 37):

So the party returns to the spot chosen by Rhaskos earlier (GM note: with a critical stealth roll no less, which just got repeated - so I am running with the idea that Rhaskos has found a perfect hiding place from which to observe the stockade. Chances of being detected are negligable unless someone actively comes hunting or one of you does something daft)

You then observe the camp, awaiting an obvious opportunity to act, or nightfall...

Sanjar considers the crucified winged creature. He appreciated Rhaskos' observation is a good one - it is quite possible it is nailed up there to discourage others from trying to attack the occupants of the stockade. He does not know what it is, but he does know things that appear part human and part animal can be made by gods, spirits - or sorcerers. Sometimes they turn out capable of breeding. Its feathers flutter ragged in the breeze, other than that it is still as death.

An hour passes

Event 1:

A party arrives bearing filled waterskins, and approaches the stockade. This party is 10 strong, includes two men in armour, and a couple of others are bearing spears.

Team perception (9) - the armoured men are carrying crossbows; that's an exotic weapon rarely seen outside Assabia.

Another hour or so, and then

Event 2:

Individuals have come and gone, with no apparent purpose other than banal things like relieving themselves a few yards from the stockade. But a little before sunset two figures exit the gate and appear to 'stroll' in the late afternoon. They are not visible for long before wandering out of sight on the far side of the stockade; but as they stop to gaze upon the crucified bird-creature, even at this range you are convinced one of them is a woman.

Nothing else can be gleaned for now (team perception failed - 72)

Sanjar seems rather taken aback at the crossbows and various other signs of serious preparation.  "Everything about this seems like we are in a situation we do not yet apprehend." he says, frowning and muttering to himself.

The returning water-party is watched with some interest, but ultimately to little end or comment by Sanjar.  The second group however, later in the evening, sparks his interest.  "Mmm.  Do you think we could circle this enclosure and attempt to close on that pair unseen?"

Rhaskos is puzzled. An encampment that has taken a good while to build, but not much activity?

That water party is too strong. At least four fighting men, and six others to run for help at the first sign of trouble? We'd need better odds for success, even in an ambush.

It seems to me that they are waiting for something - if you are moving quickly, and want to get away in a hurry, you don't spend this time and supplies building a house. So what - or who- are they waiting here for?

I agree with Sanjar. The two out alone are interesting and we should see what we can find out about them. I could try to find a path from here to the other side of the camp, but it will be dark soon.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 40):

The chance of taking a closer look at the strolling pair are minimal - it would require a long detour to stay out of sight within the woods to move round to that side of the stockade, and they are more than likely to just stroll back again and return to the stockade by the time you do.

Sanjar's protective charm expires

Activity continues as the sun descends the sky in the West, sinking below the great rocky crag at the far end of the island, at one moment casting the whole island neatly in its shadow. Twists of smoke from rekindled fires rise from behind the stockade. For a while you can see several people emerge from the gate and stand more or less idly looking towards the South, perhaps chatting or swapping banter. The feel of those in the camp is moderately relaxed.

The strolling pair appear again, and those standing around outside the gate show deference visible through their gestures and body language as they stand together.

A small group - two armoured men and three others - leaves the gate and turns to descend to the beaches.

15-20 minutes later, three armoured men and one unarmoured man come the other way, and stop to speak to the strolling pair before re-entering the camp, shortly followed by the rest of those standing about.

The sun sets. The island is illuminated still by the fading ambient light and the ghostly silver of the bright waning moon in the East.

A great shout goes up from many voices behind the stockade fence. You cannot make out the words from here.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:00, Mon 28 Jan 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 41):

[OOC: Can we discern whether the shouts are of joy or anger, fear or some other strong emotion?]

Rhaskos considers the armoured party heading to the beach:

'I think we can guess at their destination - that must be the changing of the guards for the boat. I imagine some of the sailors will be staying with it, to carry out maintenance, go fishing or whatever, but we can safely say there will be at least four or five armed guards posted at the boat at any time.

The camp party look relaxed in the evenings - perhaps the bird creatures or other things on the island don't trouble them at sunset or night. I suggest we keep undercover at dawn, just in case that's the time they are active.

It's heading towards night - should we take a look at the boat before all the light goes? We need to find somewhere to rest that won't be stumbled upon for any reason'.

Orinastron smiles and the party may note that he utters a rhythmic phrase to himself.  Although hard to hear the cadence is similar to the one that drifted up from the camp.  He turns to the others, "Well, they are surely Jekkarane and have at least remembered to recite their evening prayer as the sun fades and the we enter the realm of Jekkara, the Mood Goddess".

"If they have taken the trouble to make a palisade it seems their intent may be to be here a while.  Yet, it is clear that they consider the environment to be hostile and we must be alert to that too.  A winged beast would easily overcome a mere fence so I sense that the earthworks protect them from some other danger which might easily threaten us also.

"I suggest we scout their boat and, tomorrow take what chance we may to snatch a careless wanderer or small party.  I'll go with Rhaskos to scout the boat if he wants company but I suspect I may be more of a liability than a boon at creeping around in the dark.  Should we be able to take prisoner it occurs to me that we are not in the position to keep them.  Sanjar - have you any use for captives?  If not I hope we are ready for what may be grisly work"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Tue 29 Jan 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 43):

OOC: Rhaskos wonders what with all these religious to-do and a fort on the beach, just running up to the gates and shouting 'Mustapha Leek' might have the required effect.

With apologies to anyone who has not see 'Follow that Camel'...

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 43):

Since Sanjar, Rhaskos and Ori have all, in some way or other, declared intent to go check out the boat, I am going to start adjudicating on that basis. Will assume you go so far as possible in the forest before breaking into more open country. It is probably a half hour or more so to skirt round and avoid detection.

Per Orinastron:

LoL
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:35, Tue 29 Jan 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 45):

The party takes a wide berth around the stockade, following the treeline so far as is possible, then breaking out into the open to arrive at the sandy, grass-tufted shore line above the beach.

As you stop to catch your breath and gather your thoughts for the next step, you peer down onto the strand, and there is a great black shape some 50m away, barely illuminated on one side by a dully glowing little camp fire. It is hard to make out where the guards may be. The profile of the ship looks as if it is set up on props so it stands level on the beach. It must be 30m long, maybe even more, with the tall prow and curving stern of an oared galley.

This much is clear enough, but little else - and then a cloud shifts from the face of the moon and you realise you are probably nicely picked out by the moonlight in your position atop the dunes.

This band is Jekkarane and has a female in a position of authority.  Safra's leads indicated Solisand as Haliskome's hideout - a Jekkerane female captain.  We're in the right spot and the three of us can gain little by hanging around here.

Orinastron drops to the ground, slides back down the reverse slope of the dune and whispers, "We've seen enough.  There's nothing more to be gained here - let's go before we are spotted, or worse"

Orinastron has seen enough in the abandoned mine to know that Rhaskos has some uncanny ability to mask himself in darkness but that probabaly doesn't extend to the rest of us.  Time to go.

So... Orinastron doesn't wait to see whether they have been spotted or not.  Imploring the others to do likewise he will head back for the treeline then skirt that back to the rest of the party.  Once in the treeline he will move at search speed in an attempt not to make noise or leave a trail.  If circumstances demand otherwise he'll run for it but not until then.  He'll keep an eye out for Sanjar to make sure he's OK.

Sanjar frowns and mutters at the mention of the moon goddess, stroking his beard and sighing to himself.  Something about 'Narash' escapes his lips before he moves on with his thoughts.  After the group arrives at the ship he will turn to speak to Kordan in soft tones. "How many men are needed for a vessel this size?  Even at minimum?" and then, turning to Orinastron he continues.  "And how many of them would be oar-slaves?  And would they or would they not be eager for freedom?" he finishes.  Once again he strokes his beard thoughtfully, his fingers playing upon the charms interwoven there.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 48):

(GM note good questions, was wondering when someone would ask...Kordan knows enough to give you the following, answering on his behalf in case player not aware)

Kordan is slightly surprised at the question:

"The smallest military galleys have a complement of 50 rowers - the largest have a crew of over 300! Add to that a handful of sailors, and maybe some marines. Don't know about the Jekkarenes, but in Korantia rowers are not slaves! Well, not unless there's a crisis on and you need some emergency manpower. Of course we heard that Haliskome sailed into Thyrta without oarsmen ."

Where Sanjar comes from oarsmen most certainly are slaves, but there's no accounting for strange foreign ways.

Orinastron can add that slavery is not a big deal in the Jekkarid. the Peasants are sufficiently down-trodden and tied to the land that there's no big need for slave labour except in the households of the rich and powerful.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 49):

No sound from by the ship on the beach, so maybe - probably - you were not spotted.

Unless I hear otherwise, I now locate the party back at the edge of the forest, but at this point a little way from the stockade - where perhaps you left the cover of the trees to go towards the beach.

It's now fully dark, the waning moon shines, but that's it. Some time about 8-9pm in real world reckoning.

Time to hole up for the night, agree what we want to do tomorrow and agree a watch roster.

Kordan happily volunteers for first watch and sets up with his bow.

"Kordan, wake me when you're ready to change.  I'll take second."

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 53):

Rhaskos  has always been an early riser, he offers to take the last watch and wake everyone at dawn.  Besides, he wants to be awake when they change the ship's watch again, to see if he can work out just how many people are in the palisade.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 54):

Presume no fire tonight? It's very dark in this here forest - and hidden even from the moonlight, so whoever is on watch will be able to see very little except the silver-washed view of the low-lying land beyond the forest - presuming you remain at its edge. The sounds of forest at night are perhaps disconcerting, even for Rhaskos, as the trill of beetles and other beasts in the night is not the same as back on the fringes of Sard. The flora and fauna are, by and large, unfamiliar.


GM Notes:

OK, for future reference I am going to presume the watch cycle goes:

Kordan
Orinastron
Tanek
Rhaskos

And that Sanjar's need to ensure MP recovery for the good of everybody excuses him getting up in the middle of the night unless there's an emergency. I will assume this stays the case for future nights unless otherwise directed by the players.

NB: On the whole if camping out in the open with no fire or proper shelter, MP recovery and Healing rates should be slowed or disallowed. To be a little less harsh I will ask for a Survival or Endurance roll from anyone who wants to get proper benefit from rest in such a rudimentary set-up; otherwise the only upside is to avoid additional fatigue resulting from failure to rest at all.

Similarly, while on Solisand it may be necessary to know what your default marching order is (sounds nicely old school, and it is!).

At this point, unless told otherwise I will assume:

Point - Rhaskos, scounting
Front - Tanek
Middle - Orinastron and Sanjar
Rear - Kordan
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:58, Wed 30 Jan 2013.

Sounds good.

What do we think we might do tomorrow? Try and snatch a couple of captives and start a war of attrition?

Or...  Perhaps we track their strongly armed water party (should be easy enough) and somehow poison their water supply .  If we could pull that off they would be as weak as kittens with any luck?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:51, Wed 30 Jan 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 56):

Orinastron is musing on these thoughts as he sits on second watch, when the GM asks him to make a Perception roll.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 57):

GM having made the perception roll...Orinastron notices nothing other than the creaking of the trees, rustling of leaves and the constant hum of small creatures, until something very peculiar happens which elicits a cry of astonishment from Orinastron and bleary-eyed waking from everyone else...

A sparkling light suddenly appears a few meters from the camp, a shocking intrusion into the night darkness. It flits and zips about in mid air in a crazy and erratic pattern, gradually trending towards you.

This tinkerbell-fairy light eventually appears right among you, until it alights on a branch just over your heads. Peering at it in astonishment, you realise the light is coming [not from a fairy, but] from a rather large beetle, one that is almost big enough to cover the palm of your hand. It sits there, looking down at you, and then begins to speak in a gravelly voice.

"Efugaste su, ksenoi! Hesolisma kolotha, ktenisa sas, fugaste!"

And no, you have no idea what it is saying...but it is saying it again. Then it flits to another branch...and says it again.

What do you do now?

[OOC:  Any possible lore or insight type checks for Sanjar?  /OOC]

Sanjar comes to his feet wiping the sleep from his face and coming to his sense just in time to be paying attention as the creature speaks and otherwise tries to communicate.  "I think it is giving us a warning.  Trying to lead us away.  Of course I am not certain, however just now I am inclined to follow it.  This could be our chance to learn more about what is really happening here.  Why Haliskome is here.  Come!  Make haste.  If there is a threat as I suspect, we must not tarry!"

Rhaskos isn't much impressed by talking beetles, but is inclined to follow Sanjar's lead. A light in the trees, and a voice, even from a beetle, might travel far enough to the encampment to make them want to investigate.

Rhaskos readies his pack and weapons.

Is this creature suggesting we follow it? I suggest we move quickly before they send a party to investigate. Talk travels a fair distance at night, and light even more.  Let's move with haste; I'll lead unless anyone else cares to go first.

Either it wants us to leave or it wants us to follow it, in either case I'm in agreement about heading out. Sitting on a hill at night while having our position given away to anybody who might be on duty just leaves us as targets.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 59):



Nope. You'll have to work this one out.



Kordan may have it - there's nothing to follow (it's not sashaying off into the forest beckoning to you as it goes). Maybe it's saying 'go'. But who knows what it's saying as it sure isn't speaking any language you know, which is less of a surprise than the fact it's speaking at all.

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 60):

GROUP 0 MAP UPDATED - small amount of extra info added

Rhaskos is tempted to move south-west, using the edge of the tree line as a guide. They can move faster through the less dense forest margin, while someone coming from the camp or beach will find it hard to pick them out against the darkness of the thicker forest beyond.

Following the treeline sounds good to me.

Well at least Orinastron got a few hours sleep and he was awake a yday.  He'll grab his kit and take hismplacein the marching order with Sanjar.  Happy for Rhaskos to lead the way, he can pretty much see it the dark or so it seems.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 66):

"I think it's trying to drive us away from something. Maybe this perfect hiding spot of ours has a nest of some kind?"

As we leave I'll take a final look around as a last chance to spot anything unusual, apologize to the beetle for disturbing it, and then leave a small offering of food - meat if possible.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 67):

Tanek earns a Perception Roll as you move off

Key question - how far are you going to move, for how long, and at what pace?
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:36, Thu 31 Jan 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 68):

Well, that's Rhaskos's secret superpower uncovered then...

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 69):

Edited post - sorry, should have been private line

[ooc

According to Google Translate the beetle speaks Esperanto which I guess means it's as rare as rocking horse shit.  Either that or Google has no idea what language it is which must therefore mean it is Esperanto...

/ooc]

I strongly suggest we move at Search speed rather than crashing around in the darkness.  If someone's actually chasing us or there''s one less of us every time Rhaskos looks round to see who's behind him then we'll pick up the pace I guess?

As for how far, that might depend on whether the Beetle keeps flitting about us or disappears.  Might it not equally be leading us into a trap as warning us away?  Orinastron agrees the party should not hang around underneath a bright light in darkness but it's not clear to Orinastron why everyone seems to think it is benign, "Sanjar, what makes you think that thing is looking out for us?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:59, Thu 31 Jan 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 72):


06:52, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 97 using 1d100. Perception (31).
My perceptive skills are as strong as ever!

Search speed while in darkness sounds like a safe plan to me.  With a mutter of, "And I just fell asleep too" Kordan grabs his bow, notches an arrow, and says, "Okay, ready."

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 74):

You move slowly south along the treeline...the shining beetle flits from branch to branch, staying roughly parallel to you...from time to time croaking out its 'message', as if trying to herd you out of the forest. This continues for a few minutes...you have gone barely 50m, the light goes quite suddenly, and so you lose sight of the beetle.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 75):

When the beetle vanishes, Rhaskos motions everyone to stop.

He pauses for a few moments, talking softly to himself under his breath. Then he turns around a few times in the patch of clear space the party seems to be in, as though he is looking for something.

Speaking beetles and darksight are beyond Orinastron's personal experience but he has seen (and read) enough about the world to know that such things are possible.  He has his sword in hand, figuring that others have their bows or jockstraps (in Tanek's case) at the ready and the undergrowth may be too thick to allow him a clean shot at close range.

Orinastron is less convinced that this beetle, a familiar perhaps, had the party's best interests at heart; he fears a trap and will stay alert and silent.  He will endeavour to detect any sudden movement in his peripheral vision as he was trained to do when on watch and will avoid looking at the starlit sky lest it mute his vision when looking into the gloom at ground level.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 77):

Rhaskos slows down, lost in thought. He backs up & bumps into Tanek, exchanging a few words of apology as he does so...
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:58, Fri 01 Feb 2013.

Kordan quietly mutters, "Give me a ship off a shoreline any day of the week."

In reply to Rhaskos (msg # 78):


After bumping into Rhaskos, Tanek growls, "Some scout you are if you have to stop moving your legs everytime you need to move your brain." He then shrugs his shoulders one at a time to pop some stiff joints, stretches out his right arm with all five fingers splayed, and then pushes his head towards the left in order to pop his neck.

"Ahh that felt good. Interrupted sleep on a hard ground didn't do my joints any favors."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:05, Fri 01 Feb 2013.

Given we're still close to the treeline, Orinastron will peer out to see if there are any signs of activity down in the encampment.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 81):

Can't see it from here...however, given the medium we are working with I'll give you some slack...note that Tanek's action are very deliberate, so read his input carefully

Kordan nods at Tanek, then somewhat quietly says, "Be holdin' up a sec, gots ta pee".

Then he casually strolls back and to the right a bit, as if for privacy.  Once there, he notches his arrow to be very ready, and braces against a tree as if relieving himself.

Orinastron from his position between Tanek and Kordan is alerted by their sudden air of nonchalance.  Despite his endeavours to stay alert and detect anything untoward going on around them (msg 77) he gets the sense they have noticed or realised something that he has not.

Orinastron, will grumble to himself, "Accursed boots, straps always coming undone" and shift his position over to the right a little to stay between Tanek and Kordan, slightly off the line of the path they have been taking and then crouch down in front of a tree or bush, sword still in hand, pretending to fiddle with his boots but in fact making himself small, concealed and ready to spring forwards if needs be.  He will discreetly look about and strain his listening to see what it is he has missed.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:37, Sun 03 Feb 2013.

Sanjar pauses, his own bow and arrow in hand as he scans the empty terrain outside the canopy.  Sighing softly to himself he turns back as Kordan goes to relieve himself and frowns slightly, his eyes flicking between Rhaskos, Tanek, and then back to Kordan with seeming growing sense of unease...

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 85):

Up ahead Rhaskos resumes the slow march, but you can see he is grasping a javelin in his right hand and is regularly looking back into the forest - which to everyone else is an inky blackness.

The voice again, from within the forest, close at hand - this time no glowing beetle - just the croaked command or warning...

"Efugaste ksenoi!"

How long are you going to continue?

"Wait up guys, I'm almost done peeing."

[Looks around to see if he can spot any targets.]

[... reframed message and reposted following GM clarification ...]
This message was last edited by the player at 11:41, Wed 06 Feb 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 88):

GM NOTE: I'll try clear some confusion caused by gradual drip of info through the thread with a summary. If need be I will map it out when I get a chance:

Your original night bivouac was not at the vantage point over the Jekkarene camp, see message 50 in this thread:



When awoken by the beetle, you eventually decided it was not leading you into the forest, but instead you moved off to the S-W, following the treeline (where the thick canopy of the forest gives way to more open country, only lightly wooded), as per message 64 in this thread:



As then agreed via Sanjar in the next message and confirmed here in message 75:



So right now, you are located no more than 50-60m from your bivouac, blundering around in the darkness, but led by Rhaskos who seems able to pick his way through. given the darkness and the move at Search speed, you must assume you are quite close together in order to keep eyes on the man in front.

 You are heading S or SW, the thick forest is on your left, and that's where the beetle was when he disappeared, and that is the direction in which some sort of threat has been indicated. As people try to fathom out what the warning is and ready themselves in case of immediate threat or danger, two things become clear:

Rhaskos is trying to flag down the line that there are at least five 'creatures' shadowing you, creeping around in the darkness of the forest to your left (and there may be more). They are further away from you than the beetle was. They are humanoid, but small...and very stealthy.

The voice croaks out at you again.."efugaste ksenoi". It has no obvious point of origin (not even to Rhaskos), but appears very close, almost in your midst

Given his position in the marching order, next to Sanjar and adjacent to Tanek and Kordan, Orinastron will whisper, "By the Moon, what are we doing wandering around in the dark at the forest's edge like this.  We have no idea what where we are going and Rhaskos is clear that there is something out there.

"I say we go back to the spot we were camped in - it was concealed and out of sight of  Haliskome's camp yet close to a good vantage point.  That's what we're here to deal with after all.  I don't see any good coming of blundering around here waiting to be picked off".

Sanjar shifts to be facing towards the five small humanoids, placing an arrow on his string and beginning to back slowly out and away from the treeline... moving into the open away from them.  His steps are catious, but plainly he wants to deny them cover and concealment if they give chase or attack. "I think we may have more immediate concerns." he says softly.  "They may speak the islander tongue, Kordan.  Perhaps you might give it a try?"

Kordan attempts to communicate with the small humanoids in Archipelegan.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 92):

Make a roll against your Archipelagan language skill

00:08, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 90 using 1d100. archipelegan (32).

Not so good. Only remembered insults.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 94):

Sanjar backs away from the forest, ready for trouble, suggesting to Kordan he try a language that is at least a lingua franca out on the ocean...

Kordan barks out peacful greetings in pidgin archipelagan, not knowing quite who or what or where he is directing them at in the darkness.

There's no response other than,

"efugaste ksenoi!", this time from right in front of Kordan's face, or so it seems.

But Rhaskos notices the attempt to address the stalkers directly has caused some commotion...and in the commotion he notices, "there are more than I thought...at least 7!"

Orinastron will rise into a crouch and start to back out into the open.  He was close to Sanjar and intends now to keep himself between the sorceror and the trees.  Sanjar has his bow ready so Orinastron figures that, with sword still in hand, he may be in a position to shield Sanjar if needs be and allow him to use his bow.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:47, Fri 08 Feb 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 96):

  "We'll, if they were going to ambush us. I'd have thought they would have done so by now.  I sure do hate fighting in the dark though."

Tanek shifts his shield and spear to the ready.

[OOC:  Now if only Sanjar was a good shot. ;P /OOC]

Sanjar smiles briefly at the seeming reaction to Kordan speaking. "Good man.  Try again... they seem interested, yes?"

I keep attempting to communicate with them. Soothing words, calm sounds, non-threatening gestures, etc.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 99):

Kordan's persistence results in an Insight test for the other party.

Rhaskos calls out softly that 'they' are emerging from the their hiding places and coming forward - and now he counts 8.  You still cannot see any of them in the dark...until a point of light, bright as a lantern (a folk magic spell is an obvious conclusion) bursts into life on a branch near Kordan's head. The party is now softly illuminated, and into the circle of light steps a diminutive fellow - half the size of any of you and perhaps a third the size of the giant Kordan. Peculiar looking too - his facial features, hands and feet are more or less normal size, his ears made to look even bigger by the pegs that pierce them; so if there were such a thing as a goblin, you might think this is one. But there isn't.

He is near naked except for a loin cloth decorated with squirrel tails. In his hands is a blow gun

He looks at you, warily - and speaks:

"Efugaste ksenoi! kolothesde Solisma!"

The tone is not so aggressive as the beetle had been - but the voice sounds much the same.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:50, Sat 09 Feb 2013.

Kordan slowly kneels down, to be less intimidating, sets his bow down on the ground to his side, and bow respectfully to the (chief/shaman/leader?).

Not sure if they understand Archipelegan, but I'll keep trying to communicate basic concepts like "friend", "sorry", "respect" etc.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 101):

As long as everyone is acting soothing.  I'll un-adopt a readied stance.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 102):

The little man smiles and shakes his head....

"sito?" He smiles again

Kordan is struck with a sense of realisation.

"I think he's asking for food"

"Hey does anybody have any food on them?  Preferably something that tastes good?"

Sanjar puts away his arrow and then slings his bow before unshouldering his pack.  There he removes from within the pack a small leather case.  Leaving the pack where it is, he steps forward and kneels beside Kordan before the small men.  There from within the leather case he draws a small, not overly expensive but moderately ornate rolled rug, and rolls it out on the ground between himself, Kordan, and the small man who has stepped forward.   Then, also from the small case come a small assortment of ritual items... small statues and the like, followed finally by small offering plates.  These are put before him on the rug.  All of these items are treated with a delicate hand, a collection of of no casual items to Sanjar it would seem.

Then, from his own pack he brings forth some of his own food... an intentional mix of whatever they have on offering, and makes three portions on the three small plates.  From his belt he draws small packets of real spices, sprinkling them over all three portions.

Finally Sanjar mutters brief prayers over the assembled offerings, his hands held in a priestly and officiating manner, before he lifts the first one respectfully up, even as he half-bows, over his head.  Then it is placed before the small collection of idols on the prayer rug.  This is repeated before one is placed before the small man, and then the last placed between Kordan and Sanjar himself.

[OOC: Those interested might have a chance to identify Sanjar's idols.  ;P /OOC]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:16, Tue 12 Feb 2013.

Kordan says in bewilderment, "You brought a rug?"

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 106):

Tanek sidles over to Orinastron and mutters, "If that's what qualifies as Sanjar's necessities, I'd hate to think of what his luxuries are!"

Orinastron raises an eyebrow and nods to Tanek, "Clearly officer material". Orinastron will follow the general lead and relax his defensive stance.  He will keep looking about and endeavour not to become too distracted by the ceremony being performed in front of him.  He is nevertheless interested and will have a squint at Sanjar's idols to see if he can recognise any of them.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 108):

The small man watches Sanjar's ritual with some wonderment...and growing excitement. his eyes widen, and he babbles excitedly to his assumed companions in the darkness behind him. First one, then two more, creep into the light to examine what is going on.

Sanjar's serene presentation is perhaps a little marred by the fellow dashing forward to grab a morcel then retreating just as fast to check nobody is taking a swing at him...before licking his lips and scoffing it down. There is a slightly comical expression across his strange face as the spices bite - but then a broad grin. He makes some sort of triumphant exclamation, and then the others also dart forward to claim a scrap of food.

Within a few moments the plate set before the little man is clean and they look hungrily at the others. One of them at least is sneezing and coughing at the spiced food, to the amusement of the others.

"Su ksenoi filli!" says the first, and cackles.

"I think he said 'friend'," says Kordan

"Io ksenoi kak!", he continues, gesturing off to the West, then pointing to himself bearing his teeth and making to gnaw at his arm. "Kak!"

And with that he seems to be summoning his companions to make off into the forest and leave you alone (unless you want to try extend the encounter)

And I'll give Kordan and Sanjar each a bonus luck point to use while on the island. nice bit of RP ;)

Sanjar carefully repacks his idols and prayer rug, restowing all into his pack and shouldering it.  One that is finished he gives a somewhat amused smirk to Kordan before giving a nod towards their new 'friends'.  "Let us not waste the moment." he says.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 110):

OK - to restate the position:

You are situated about one KM away from the stockade (and your hidey hole with a vantage point over it). It's late evening but still before midnight - and it's dark, especially in the forest. You might return to your bivouack spot and assume there will be no more interruptions from glowing beetles...or go someplace else. But fatigue may become a problem in the morning if no proper rest is gained.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 111):

"Probably best if we return to our hidey spot and try to make up for lost sleep there. It was pretty well secluded."

"I couldn't agree more Tanek. As interesting as this diversion has turned out to be it has been just that, a diversion from the task at hand.  Lets get back and get some rest.  I think my watch period is over."

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 113):

Please confirm - going back to your hidey hole with a view over the stockade (1km away) or you bivouac you left when sleep was interrupted, which is just 50-100m away?

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 114):

Sorry, I was thinking of the nearby bivouac spot and called it by the wrong name.  I don't think traipsing around in the dark would be too effective.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 115):

Then I am delighted to say that the next six hours or so before dawn pass peacefully. No talking over-sized insects or diminutive people trouble you further.

However sleep has been interrupted, and should you wish to spring into action as soon as dawn breaks, you must make an athletics or endurance roll, your choice. otherwise you begin the day Tired and require 3 hours divided by your Healing rate of extra relaxation to be on full form.

While you are sorting that out, tell me your plan for the day.

Happy to lie-in and spend the day observing the camp from our hides hole in order to see if any patterns start to emerge.  Also - resurfacing an earlier thought.  Does anyone think there is any merit in poisoning their water supply?  Their water party is strong but if we poison the water the whole camp may well be far easier to take, if weakened by illness.  Who knows - we migh even try and enlist Sanjar and Kordan's new friends to helps identify a suitable berry or somesuch to assist in the task.

[OOC:  I am feeling mildly at a loss for a plan other than that myself, given what we currently know and have available to us.  I would also hazard that we were warned that there are nasty critters out towards the ridge by the liliputians... but am not certain if I want to take that as a cue to go and investigate in person either. /OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 118):

All fair points - but if you feel you can't formulate a plan of attack with what you know - then perhaps the plan needs to be to find out more information.

I believe that you have arranged to rendezvous back at your landing point with the ship's boat around midday, to either pick you up or not...you can of course go back to the Foamfollwoer and report to Safra there's no viable plan and it's time to go home...

[OOC:

Are there any obvious ( or not so obvious for that matter, if we take a look around ) trails from the fort, indicating the areas of the island that Haliskome is interested in?

Perhaps some liliputian sized trails instead?  ;P

For now, aside from dealing with the fort, I'm personally interested in why they are here.  Preferably without dying in the process.  ;P

That may involve just striking out in a direction on the island, but I prefer to be a bit more informed.  Hmmm.  How far away are we from either of the previously known ruins on the island?

/OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 120):

You have not scouted that as yet. You know of two trails from the stockade, but have not physically traced them. One is the route from the stockade to the beached ship (you took your own route there which was a wide berth. The other is the route taken by the 'water party' spotted yesterday. If you have cut across that (and by rights must have done at some point when making for the ship), it was in the dark.

The report of Astangoras acquired from Medanthros' Scriptorium mentioned a ruined village in the West of the island. His report otherwise suggests that the 'apostate' (for which read sorcerer or wizard) that they came here to kill was in the South somewhere as they crossed the reef into a lagoon to get to him.

[OOC:  I am for following the 'water party' path then, at a cautious scouting speed, parallel in the terrain.  Not on the path, but... close enough to follow it and try and hide and be lost in the terrain if we encounter anyone on it.

/OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 122):

Ok well, sounds like we need to first go meet our rendezvous and check in. Then come back and progress with the water party.

So unless Sanjar has some long distance communication spell, it's time to backtrack to our landing point. Yes?

Sounds good.  Backtrack, make contact, cut over to intersect with the trail, and follow it deeper in.

Water supply tampering it is!

Well, I think there is something else they are interested in.  Maybe tamper with the water supply, but I'm also keen to follow the trail deeper and see what they are really here for.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 126)

Aha. A sorcerer with a cunning plan.


You can help me out by telling me whether you take the extra rest you need (remember I asked for Athletics or Endurance rolls - or extra rest time due to lost sleep). Then I can work out what time of day it is when you start on your way.

Assuming you return to your rendez-vous point at normal marching speed, it will take about 2 hours to get there (if you don't get lost in the forest).

Then another 2 hours to return to the Western edge of the forest at a point where you would hope to pick up a trail from the stockade into the interior. After that I presume you will revert to Search speed as per instructions up thread.

Yes to all, and Sanjar wants the extra sleep... He is too pretty to have bags under his eyes.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 128):

The party breaks its fast late that morning, the sun has been up for perhaps two hours already. The strange event of the night before are in everyone's minds, however there is comfort that in crossing this virgin forest again there are some locals who have turned out to be not immediately hostile.

There is a momentary panic about losing the way, but it is not long before Rhaskos has you back on track, after all in the end it is simply a matter of heading East and South...

Finding the actual rendez-vous spot an your cache of supplies takes time too, but it is still only late morning by the time you do. Vashtar is still there, having enjoyed a pleasant afternoon on the beach, but an uncomfortable night. Yesterday evening he was pleased to catch a fish at the shore, and could not resist lighting a small fire to cook it. He wished he had not, for late in the evening he was nearly discovered by a party of men using the moonlight to make their way north along the shore. He hid in the darkness of the forest and watched, but they did not seem to be searching for him, instead they turned into the forest about the same place that you all had done in the early afternoon. And he heard their talk did not know their language - guesses it was Jekkarene.


One thing Vashtar is sure of - he has no desire to spend another night here on his own.

In another hour or less the skiff will arrive - you expect to see the Foamfollower off shore at any moment.

The relation of these events has given Sanjar a nagging suspicion they are about to be ambushed.  Not that he has any immediate evidence, but... he calls for sentries regardless and readies his own bow as he assumes a position looking inward towards the island himself.  "I think we were spotted, the ship I mean, in our first pass around the north.  And that they came searching this side, trying to see if anyone made a landing.  I am less than confident that our friend and fisherman here was not spotted, with his cozy camp fire."

Still, what more is there to do?  He tries his best to be watchful and out of sight while the group waits on the arrival of the ship.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 130):

More or less on time, The Foamfollower appears out of the haze, and a short while later the ship's skiff appears bobbing on the gentle waves towards the shore.

Two sailors are pulling at the oars including the brawny Bessum of course, and there are others besides.

As the skiff draws near to land it is clear that Safra herself is in the boat, obviously anxious to know what is going on with her expedition. Joresh, the first mate, is there too.

You hurry down to the surf and help pull the boat onto the beach, Sanjar makes play of helping Safra down from the boat, and brief discussion takes place.

What do you tell her?

For another thing, Joresh explains to Sanjar that they made a wide detour round the reef reported on the southern shore - but are convinced there is be anchorage on the West, a protected bay overlooked by the crag. Zenduf thinks that if the party consider there is no great danger to it, then perhaps the Foamfollower should lie at anchor there rather than be left wandering at random on the ocean waves? Or should they make for Tempigone and return in a week, weather permitting?

I fill Safra in on the happenings so far, the observation of the encampment, the oddly militarized water supply train, the older gentlemen who wandered off in conversation, our odd late night encounter with the local non-humans, the amazing fact that Sanjar pulled a rug out of his bag, and that Vashtar's encampment was likely investigated by a patrol so our presence here is almost certainly known.

In regards to the Foamfollower, wandering at random on the ocean waves is just waiting for trouble to happen.  However, I don't feel entirely confident recommending the anchorage to the West as we haven't scouted it and it's entirely possible that the ship could be in danger anchored that close through the night.  My recommendation would be Tempigone, but be back two weeks from departure.

That would allow for us to be very careful if need be, without being additionally under pressure of a quick timeline.  If anything major happens, well, we're out of contact already.  That also allows the Foamfollower crew some good downtime, they've been going constant for awhile now.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 132):

Kordan's summary is a good one - however Kordan needs Sanjar to translate and communicate this on his behalf. Sanjar may well suspect that the notion you have found your quarry is likely to have Safra expecting an immediate plan of action to fulfil her purpose...and perhaps he will elaborate on the need for a slow and cautious approach in the face of such odds in order to curb her enthusiasm...

But something does make him stop for a moment as he formulates his version of events. Because Kordan remembers this (from a thread that is now many moons ago):



The suggestion of leaving the party without chance of evacuation for two weeks is practical but certainly bold - what says the rest of the party?

Orinastron has no complaints at Kordan's proposal.  He likens this to patrolling the borderlands when his detachment would be away for weeks at a time.  The island is lush - there will be food and fresh water to be foud.  The main thing is not to antagonise the locals and we seem to be off to a good footing on that core thanks to Sanjar and Kordan's initiative.

Orinastron is keen that they don't all get distracted and that they stay focused on the task at hand.  Nevertheless, whilst Safra is here he ventures to ask a question via Sanjar, "Lady, what is your instruction for how we deal with Halsikome.  Do we slay her where she sleeps or bring her back to you as a captive?  And what of those who serve her - what fate do you wish for them?  Your wishes must guide our plans in the days ahead."

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 134):

The answer is succinct.

"Dead or alive. Alive if you can so I might see justice done. If not, then bring me proof."

It remains for Sanjar to weigh in on the plan - his word holds great sway with Safra, who everyone knows increasingly places her trust in him. If Safra is to be dissuaded from demanding immediate action against the stockade or its inhabitants, and to comply with the notion of waiting out several days on Tempigone, a place that neither she or the crew know much about, she will need words of reassurance.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 132):

"What about if the ship anchored to the west, but we went and scouted it?  There's that village, or remains of a village, to investigate as well."

That's a good point. We could strike off west across the middle of the island and plan to meet the Foamfollower there at a specified time. If we aren't pulled off of the timetable and the area looks acceptable, then they anchor there.

If we don't show up on time or our scouting leaves a poor taste in our mouth, then the Foamfollower returns to Tempigone and comes back 10 days later, or something.

From the size of the island, I'd go with whatever seems like a reasonable amount of time to cross it, plus one extra day.

Orinastron's happy enough to go along with that.  "Shall we gather our supplies and strike out for the west coast then, and meet Foamfollower there?"

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 138):

With no input from Sanjar, then I'll run with that as the plan...

It's maybe 20km as the crow flies to the West side of the island - terrain could be difficult based on what you have experienced so far.  If you want to make a decent stab at scouting along the way then you might reasonably expect it will take you well into tomorrow to get there on foot (with an overnight camp along the way). Its a little after midday right now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:41, Mon 04 Mar 2013.

Okay so going on reasonable expectation of well into tomorrow to get there on foot, we'll arrange to meet at the anchorage point the evening after that.  This will allow us either time due to some sort of side-tracking or ambush, etc.

If we don't meet that following evening, the Foamfollower returns to Tempigone and comes back to this original drop-off point 12 days later, so two full weeks from today.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 140):

OK, so we have a plan.

"We believe we have scouted the enemy, but they are in some numbers and so we must prepare our plan of attack wisely and with caution. Certainly we need to set a base here while we learn more, and perhaps whittle down the odds. So if it pleases you, my lady, we will make a crossing of the island on foot, scout the landing on that side whilst you make for the anchorage - and rendez-vous in two days from now. If we can make a base there then we shall have readier access to resources, and more hands to rely on, when we make our assault on your father's killers".

So the meeting is at a close. The skiff returns to the foamfollower, after Safra wishes Sanjar safety and success in his deeds...

So the next step is the route. The east and south of the island is pretty much all forested, the north side is open country - in general, will you trend north or south in your journey West (but please feel free to plot me a precise course if you would rather - if not I will assume path of least resistance and update the map at each encounter or rest point)

[OOC:  Sanjar is mildly concerned with the idea to head towards the village, being quite certain that there is a reason it is abandoned.  He was more interested in heading South, and following the path that the party from the stockade had returned from.  However, I'm quite overdue in posting and such... so I have no objection to heading towards the village.  The village, I would prefer, to approach from the south.  And even more so, to avoid being spotted in our approach from the sentinels at the stockade. /OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 142):

OK got it - I am going to presume you are moving at Marching pace (3km/hr, or 5km in the open) unless told otherwise.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 143):

The party sets off in the early afternoon, having retrieved its stash of supplies so assiduously guarded by Vashtar. The heading is West by South, through the gloom of the forest benath its lush canopy and across broken, hilly ans trackless ground.

After one hour you reach a place where water springs from the rock and flows down in a little stream towards the north.

Hey guys I just had a thought. If we mess with the water supply, won't that affect the little native things badly?

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 145):

Let's try to avoid having to do anything to the water supply then.
We can't even be sure this spring supplies the outpost.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 146):

OK - shall I assume you continue west or do you plan to follow the stream?

Can we get a map update with our current location?

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 148):

Done, with some additional information reasonably gleaned from the Foamfollower's circumnavigation. Curly lines are just there to indicated heavy greenery/forest

If there are some slight differences in outline and scale from previous version put it down to the limited available information and perspectives -  but behind that there is a GM now reverting to his master hex map...

Are there not ruins or the like on the southern coast as well?  Any spotted in the journey?

I also am disinclined to poison the water supply just yet, and I don't know that we really have anything really effective at hand to do it with besides.

I am inclined just now to follow the stream south and attempt to scout the southern coast.  My gut tells me the ruins there from the 'Apostate' are what the Jekkarid types are after and a clue perhaps to what is going on.  And our best foil for Haliskome would be exactly that, and/or taking her prize, just now.

No ruins spotted - note that the presence of a reef on the southern side means that no close look has been had - features are very sketchy as the Foamfollower remained several Km off shore at all times.

[GM Note: To save time - a brief survey of the stream towards the south reveals only its source, a spring among the rocks no more than 300m away from where you have come across it. The spring does not appear especially numinous - i.e. it is not the home of a water spirit or anything.

A quick look to the north shows the stream does not continue that way but bends to the West, again after only a couple of hundred meters].

Anyone else have any comments?

If not I'll update tomorrow.

Orinastron's happy enough to go exploring towards the south if that's the consensus.  After all we're being paid by the day...

Sanjar will then suggest that the ship wait in the anchorage to the south-west while the group swings around to explore the southern part of the island a bit and makes their way there afterwards.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 154):

too late for that - the ship is off shore somewhere and you are already plunging into the heart oft he island...

Kordan's instructions to the ship's crew before you set off inland probably leave enough time to make a detour from here and yet make the rendez-vous, so long as you don't tarry anywhere too long.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 155):

I'm okay with a short detour.  But if we're not there to meet the ship when it gets to the cove, we're liable to be declared killed or missing... and they may just abandon us.

That's why they have instructions if we don't make this first rendezvous to return to the original drop-off point on the east shore in two weeks time.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 157):

OK - so the party decides to head due South (I presume Marching speed, but the terrain is difficult here and as-the-crow-flies is not an option)...


There's no end or interruption to the forest, and you have to pick your way through the uneven and broken terrain in which it is rooted. Rhaskos leads the way, and does a fine job of returning the party to a southern path every time a detour must be made.

Since encountering the little stream you have been going for almost two hours when you see a break in the forest in front of you and blue sky beyond.

As you draw near, you realise that the forest terminates here at a cliff edge. When you reach it you have a fine view of the ocean, from maybe 70-80m up (and realise the general trend of your journey has been uphill). But the cliff does not drop to the sea - you can look down on the tops of more trees; a forested shore that is hemmed in by the cliff on all sides, at the head of a little inlet that is perhaps 3 km across at its widest, narrowing to 1km across at its neck where it joins the lagoon beyond.

In this inlet, close by the beach and in all perhaps 1.5km from your vantage point...is that a ship?
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:36, Fri 15 Mar 2013.

Can we make out at this distance whether it is a wreck (wasn't one attacked by a beast living in the lagoon?) or has some signs of being in seagoing condition.  Of course Orinastron has very little idea what those signs might be so will ask Kordan.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 159):

The ship's in the water, right?  Not beached?

Are there any signs of an encampment nearby on the shore?

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 159):



It doesn't look like a wreck (Orinastron perception roll 37). Can't tell more than that from here. You cannot tell condition from here. You can tell it is galley-shaped, not a cargo ship.



(Tanek Perception roll 12) The ship is on the water as if riding at anchor, not beached. There's no sign of an encampment, but at this distance you would only see very obvious features. It is wooded down there by the shore - lighter than the forest you have been marching though, but wooded all the same.

I'll update the map later today when I get a chance.

Hmm, wonder if that's Haliskome's vessel. I know we can't make out clear details from this distance, but does the general shape and size match what we know of her ship?

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 162):



Yes it does. but then so does the ship you saw beached on the north side near the stockade. From this distance there is nothing to distinguish between the vessel in the inlet and the one you have already seen (albeit in the dark).

So the ship is inside of the assumed boundaries of the reef and previous 'creature' incident we read about?

No signs of encampment... any signs of activity on the vessel?

My initial instinct is to attempt to draw closer to investigate... but I don't deny that is risky over unknown terrain in darkness with not the most stealthy of groups.  ;P  Any other suggestions at current?

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 164):

Like you said, we're not the most stealthy bunch.  But I think this bears investigating.

'Friends, it doesn't seem likely that this is Haliskome's vessel.  It may be but, for sure, the other encampment took evening prayers at the Rise of the Moon and we saw a woman who was clearly deferred to by others.  It seems the odds are against this being our target.  For all that though it is of no less interest and is at hand and therefore worth a closer look.  Given we are not the stealthiest bunch this vessel may be easier to scout - the treeline extends almost to the shore and will enable us to get closer than we can to the other vessel.  I say we make our way carefully down the slope, wait till dusk then see what we can see from a close vantage point.'

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 164):

It's currently late afternoon - perhaps 4-ish. Although the weather and visibility are good, distance does not allow sight of activity on the ship in the inlet. Having said that it would be reasonable to conclude that where there a great deal of activity, you might see sign of it. but there isn't. The main obstacle between you and drawing closer to the ship is that you are atop a steep and rocky cliff. This embraces the wooded shore before the ship. to make a descent you will either have to make a treacherous climb down, or follow the line of the cliff to where it  tails off to the water on either side of this inlet. To head East brings you closer to the ship but is some 4km distance. to head South by West is the shortest way down, but brings you out on the opposite end of the shore to where the ship is located.

Map with a bit of detail added - as GROUP 1 MAP
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:52, Mon 18 Mar 2013.

I'd say follow the cliff-line east and around, while pulling back to attempt to prevent any sighting from below as we make our way.

Yep, lets do that.

This message was deleted by the player at 17:49, Mon 18 Mar 2013.

Works for me.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 171):

It is less than two hours to make the journey following the line of the cliff but staying back from the edge in order to remain hidden from view to anyone down at the shore (I will take your caution to indicate Search speed).

Over on the east side the ground descends gently towards where the route down to the shore is no more than a scramble down a rocky slope - you could then advance across the level ground to the beach. This ground is wooded, but not so thickly as the forest you have been tramping through these last hours.

From the top of the slope, in the late afternoon light, you can now see the ship riding at anchor is indeed a galley. There is no sign of any movement on the deck, although at this point you are still the best part of 1000m away. You can make perception rolls if you describe what it you are examining or looking for.

Then let me know if the party is heading directly towards the beach and ship, or some other plan of approach - for example
you could continue to follow the high ground all the way along to where it drops straight to the water, at which point you would be overlooking the ship from no more than 150m away.

Let me know if this is not enough clarity and I need to mark your position on a map - but I am now locating you directly East of your starting point.

Can we see any oars?  I ask because I recall we read somewhere that Haliskome's vessel didn't have oarsmen (was presumably powered magically).  In any case I vote we move around the edge of the high ground and get closer to the galley.

If we continue along the high ground towards the water and vantage point described, how much tree-cover will remain for us by then?  Will we then be exposed and up against the cliff?  Or will we still have some reasonable cover?

If we will not be completely exposed by doing so I second the desire to continue at a cautious speed along the high ground and attempt to get a better look at the vessel.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 174):

The high ground is heavily clothed in forest until it finally drops off to the sea - clearly if positioned to take a good view over the ship you may also be visible, but it is not exposed or silhouetted against the sky. otherwise put - Stealth rolls if required will be bonused.



No you cannot see any oars; however if riding at anchor its oars may not be on show anyway (ie stowed in the hull somewhere). The mast is up, but no sail is showing.

[NB For the record, a galley can operate without oars, relying on its sail like any other ship. Oarsmen are used to increase speed, or power through a calm. However it is not unusual for an expensive bit of kit like a ship to be enhanced with enchantments]

OK, so the party works its way along the eastern promontory, among the trees, and will eventually wind up close by the galley (150m, of which 100m or thereabouts is water), and still looking down onto it, with a rough slope down to the beach off to your right.

On the deck of the galley and close to the stern are two men, at ease, perhaps chatting to one another.

I rolled a team perception test (in the open) and it's a fail. I'll allow individual rolls if you tell me what you are looking out for - no lists please ;).

I rolled a team stealth test (in the open), and it's a fail (sorry). but these guys are not paying much attention, so they won't spot you unless you draw their attention.

I said we weren't a stealthy bunch!  Anyway, two people wouldn't be enough to man a vessel of that size.  Is there a beached skiff or something anywhere that would indicate where the rest of the crew might be?

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 176):



No there isn't. But you can make a perception roll.

06:31, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 93 using 1d100. Perception (30).

I was going to ask if there was any indication of nationality or ethnic origin etc.  However it would appear that Sanjar is quite obtuse today.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 178):

A good question - but I don't think it needs a perception roll. From the livery and paintwork, you'd say she's a Jekkarene ship. Sanjar has been to Lyortha en route to Thyrta, so he would work it out, especially with his INT being what it is...

Sanjar steps a bit back from his erstwhile point of observation, moving away from the cliff and coming back up to his feet.  He wipes his hands and his robe off from his not terribly effective attempt at stealth in observing the ship, and pauses for thought.  He speaks softly, though aloud, to the others.  "I find it quite unlikely that such a vessel would have escaped the notice of the Follower if it were present when it made a pass by this way.  Though a second Jekkarene vessel seems no less unlikely.  Troubling.  And for two such galleys to make landing here and not in some way be bonded together, either in friendship or hate either one, I find ... less than believable.  They must be here for the same reason as Haliskome, and took the risk of landing here in an attempt to beat her to it." he says, his manner thoughtful, speculative.  His hands grip together as he frowns, revealing some mild frustration. "But what is it?  What are they here for?  It can be no small prize, to come all this way." he mutters, then shakes his head.  "Regardless, how do we proceed?  We could hail them, or watch them some more.  Or, move further inland and scout the interior of this little area in the lee of the cliff, and perhaps see if what they are looking for is here."

"Perhaps Haliskome be just as welcome in her homeland as she be in ours." Glancing around he adds, "Well, mine.  Still, tis a rightful concern.

"I would be likin' ta see the interior of the island. Mayhap our goal be there, more intel always be good."

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 180):

"I don't think we should be introducing ourselves to people who's motives we're not sure of. That's a good way to get stabbed. There doesn't seem to be much to see here without heading down and showing ourselves, so maybe Kordan's right and we should head inland?"

Tanek is as observant as always and flubbed the the perc roll.

Sanjar contemplates a few more moments then agrees.  He suggests doing a quick search of the area otherwise isolated by the cliff here if the cover/canopy is thick enough to conceal anything significant, and then making their way back up and out to continue westward.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 183):

Without scaling cliffs, the most direct way West is to cross the this low-lying area and exit close to the shore on the other side.

You currently have maybe 2-3 hours of decent light left.

I assume you will be moving at search speed unless told otherwise, and will avoid being in the open at the waterfront. This should mean you could cross and properly scout the wooded shore and exit into the more heavily forested upland before nightfall - OK?

[NB Let me know if I have misunderstood intentions. I'll also drop Rhaskos player a line try get him back online as his skills may be useful]

Sanjar only - Perception roll - hard (one third penalty), augmented by your Mundane Arcana lore skill (ie add 20% of that, round up, as a bonus).

[OOC:

19:18, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 60 using 1d100. Perception ( 30 ) ( -10+10).
19:32, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 15 using 1d100. Perception ( 30 ) - Luck Reroll.

/OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 185):

Well, Sanjar seems to be calling the shots - with no dissent expressed, the party moved back northwards along the high ground embracing the inlet on the East side to a point before the cliffs begin in earnestwhere there is an easy scramble down a slope strewn with rocks and thickets to the shore.


Moving some 100m or so from where the trees give way to the beach, you move carefully through the wooded terrain, heading due West.

As the group moves into the lower land and away from the cliffs Sanjar suddenly pauses.  The man's eyes narrow and he holds up a hand, fingers splayed and arm outreached.  For several seconds he is silent, concentrating and murmuring softly to himself.  Then his eye snap all of the way open in a broad and plain visage of alarm.  "A ward, a boundary!  And we have set it off!  Quickly, press forward!  I should not like to be here if some response should be coming!"

Orinastron was about to say that he agreed with Sanjar's observation that Haliskome's choice of this island as a harbour may not be just random chance.  Rather that there may be something here that she and the crew of the other Jekkarene vessel are looking for.  However, Sanjar's alarm rouses him from his musings.

"Let's make some distance back into the trees, quickly."

Orinastron will draw his sword and press quickly back into the tress, following Sanjar.  The idea might be to put 50m or so between us and the ward without leaving a trail like a herd of bison, then hunker down and observe.

Sanjar more wanted to press straight through in hopes of evading any response... but is easily persuaded to alternate courses of action in tactical matters most of the time.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 189):

Forwards is through light woodland towards the other side of this hidden shore roughly 3km away. Backwards is up a steep rocky slope (not a cliff at this point), also wooded, to the thicker forest clothing the high ground above.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:37, Sun 24 Mar 2013.

How exposed/visible ascending the rocky slope?  And how quickly can we reascend?

I'm currently leaning towards getting back to the top of the slope and taking cover and preparing for a fight etc.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 191):

Retreating to the known area we came from seems safer than running forward into the unknown area that has some kind of ward as an alarm.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 192):

Scrambling back up the slope - 30m or more of steep slope. Most encumbered character (SR penalty - 4 = move 2) can do that in about 15 rounds (a minute and a half or less) assuming shield on back etc with a climb (Athletics) roll. Failed climb roll - start again. Fumbled climb roll - fall with chance of injury.

Climbing with a shield anywhere other than slung on the back - double the time (30 rounds, 2.5mins), and the athletics roll is one grade harder.

Take it careful, no climb roll, double the time (hence between 3 and 5 minutes, or 30-60 rounds).

I will assume everyone takes the slow and sure route unless told otherwise.

Cover - down here plenty of trees, but smaller and more sparsely spread than on the high ground, sandy soil underfoot, little ground bush cover. An enemy would have to get within 100m to have a chance to spot you and vice versa, but no hide bonus or perception penalty once they do.

Unless instructed otherwise by Sanjar in light of the climb-the-slope information, Kordan will opt for the 15 rounds with an Athletics check option.

Once reaching the top will take whatever cover is available, or hunch down if no cover readily available.  Draw bow and scan for trouble.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 194):

I'll take the slow and sure route so as to be near everyone else in case something bad happens.  If everyone opts to scramble, I'll scramble as well.

Orinastron swings his shield round onto his back and takes a run at the slope.

"Come on Kordan, race you"

17:54, Today: Orinastron rolled 18 using 1d100. Athletics (40).

At the top he'll ready his bow, find a spot to hunker down and cast around looking for signs of movement.  He will do a full 360 degree sweep just in case the presumed owner of the ward is encamped atop the slope and Orinastron has just run towards them!

Sanjar leads a pretty soft life physically... and thus will sputter his way up the slope the slow way, and appear all the worse for wear regardless.  ;P

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 197):

In hindsight the undignified scrambling retreat back up to the high ground will be a moment to reflect on with some amusement. Rather like his escapade on the ship when he wrestled with Bessum, Orinastron bounds past the hulking form of Kordan, and springs up the slope to the top where he draws his bow and keeps watch all around; while Tanek and Sanjar make a slow and steady ascent (Sanjar can easily keep pace with Tanek who is encumbered with armour and shield); Kordan and Rhaskos both attempt to show some athleticism but find their dexterity lets them down. In the end they heave themselves up the last few metres behind even Sanjar.

Once back in what feels like a secure position, the party hunkers down and waits to see what happens next. The treetops make observation of the ground below you difficult.

Team Perception...46...Rhaskos at least passes the test.

No sooner is the party all in its place than the little hunter calls for quiet, and indicates in a low voice that he thinks there are people approaching below - still a way off for now, but moving towards you. He tracks them with his ears and eyes, pointing to where he thinks "they" are; you might imagine he is back in his own forest stealthily watching for the approach of some dangerous predator.  You can tell that they must more or less reach the foot of the slope before you or they have a clear view beneath and between the trees and rocks. There's just time to hide or simply run away, or you can prepare to fight if need be, but there are only minutes to do so.

"If we be fighting and even one gets away, they'll be on high alert.  Mayhap if we hide and leave they'll think it was a larger animal or someone from the other settlement?

Sanjar, how specific are wards like this?"

Any indication by the noise/bustle on  general size of the approaching group?

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 200):

The desription of an approaching predator is apt - perhaps a pride of lions more so. Rhaskos thinks less than a dozen, maybe less than ten, and spread out a little, not by what he can see so much as by what he can't - there's no army or military unit heading your way, maybe a patrol?

Surely discretion is the better part of valour here?  We are outnumbered.  Retreat into hiding and live to fight another day.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 202):

I agree.  But we should try to get eyes on whatever's coming while we're hiding.

Sanjar quickly says that he thinks the probability that the ward could tell anything more than something living and of size crossed it is very small.  He suggests hiding and then setting their 'scout' Rhaskos to following the group away if they don't reset their ward.  Eyes on is a good idea indeed.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 204):

The party retreats into cover while these unknown people approach the ground below their position.

Rhaskos and the hunter and Orinastron stay where they can try to get some idea of what is going on. After a short while they are aware of a number of people (men) calling to each other. Orinastron understands their language - it is Jekkarene. He thinks there are maybe 6 or seven of them and can make out snatches of their speech...

'You got anything?'

'No'

'What about tracks? Maybe there's something worth eating'

'I'll take a look'

(GM rolls 3 - it's a critical track roll).

In Jekkarene, but with a foreign accent:

'Look sharp boys, I've got something - not animal tracks - but <i>people. They got this far and turned about, back up there; Renesteros, go tell..</i>.'

At which point, Rhaskos, craning to see what is going on, dislodges a rock (rolled natural 100), and all eyes at the bottom of the slope snap to his position.

Actions - and Initiative.

05:09, Thu 28 Mar 2013: Sanjar Zand rolled 21 using 1d10+15 ((6)).

Sanjar will begin casting a protective ward to cover the group.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 206):

I'll assume Sanjar will prep but not expend MPs until you have sight of what others are doing and how they react (bear in ind you will need a point into Range to do everyone). Only Rhaskos has 'exposed himself', but they'll likely spot Orinastron once they are looking.


Tactical Situation

Tactically you can defend yourselves happily right here unless some bad magic is involved, or if you bolt, you will have a few minutes head start if pursued. tactical You have 30+m of steep rocky slope between you and them, which as you know is likely to take a minimum 5-6 rounds to climb if completely unarmoured and unencumbered, and rather more (15+) otherwise. to begin with, only spells or missile weapons may be relevant.


Missile weapons: The range is 21-40m bracket which makes all shots 1 grade harder (ie -one third skill). There are places to go for cover, and you can even remove yourselves from sight and all but blind fire; otherwise, by having height advantage, if the party chooses to go prone all incoming missile attacks will be at Formidable (Half Chance) and once adjusted for range, Herculean (one tenth) chance. Given the 'foe' are below you, they cannot make your shots harder by going prone, but they can seek cover among the trees and rocks.

there are plenty of loose rocks and stones around that you could hurl down if you want to save ammunition. These will do 1d3+ damage bonus, but I'll increase damage bonus one step for the height. however if you hunt around for small boulders - such as would take a brawn roll and 4 rounds to prepare - and roll or hurl, these will do a whopping 4D6 damage - it is not a straight drop, they'll bounce on the way - but will be easy (increase skill by half) to evade.

If the party removes itself from sight, or is prone, it will be hard to stop anyone coming up, so take that into account.

Those with shields can also put up a barrier (passive blocking) and crouch, which will make incoming missiles more or less useless in the case of a Hoplite Shield; however then it is hard to see what is going on below or to be ready for someone scrambling up to fight you.

Of course they may do none of these things - what are you going to do....?

09:04, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 13 using 1d10+6. Init.

That boulder option sounds pretty entertaining, but as I have my bow out already I'll step up and aim for the entire round to reduce my difficulty one step back to normal.

(RQ6 has time to reload a bow as 2 turns so trying to make this count.)

I'll aim at anybody who appears to have a missile weapon.  If I can't easily ascertain that, then I'll aim at whomever looks the most physically imposing.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 208):

I'll ready my sling and then take aim at whoever is closest. Slings reload pretty slow so I'm thinking of rolling a boulder down once engaged.

I'll help you with that boulder.  Once they start climbing we can aim it better.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 210):

I'm lacking some input here still; only Kordan and Sanjar have rolled initiative. I'll run with what I have if no input (eg from Orinastron) overnight.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 211):

Oops, I forgot to paste my init in

14:54, Thu 28 Mar: Tanek Sanasin rolled 12 using 1d10+7. Initiative

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 208):



Kordan steps forward as Rhaskos pedals back (the hunter knows he will likely lose his precious javelins if he casts them down the slope); an arrow is knocked to his bow and he at once sees 7 men looking up at him.  At first glance only two of them are equipped with missile weapons - one has a crossbow, the other a recurve bow. only the man with a crossbow wears any armour (some sort of cuirass), and what's more he has a buckler hanging at his side, and a scimitar at his waist - that's clearly Kordan's target.



That could be anyone, I'll give a random target if you hit.

What's Orinastron up to?



Round 1, First Turn

SR 23: The archer reacts in a moment as Tanek pops into view prepping a sling shot - and his arrow is going to find a mark if not evaded  (rolled 15)

SR20:  Meanwhile, crossbow man sees Kordan taking a bead on him and takes an immediate snapshot (turn 1, SR 20), missing Kordan rather narrowly, but not enough to put him off his aim.

[OOC  Sorry am in catch-up.  Workload hellish at moment /OOC]

23:50, Today: Orinastron rolled 25 using 1d10+16. Initiative.

Orinastron had his bow ready and will lose a shot from where he squats atop the slope.  He aims at one of the unarmed men in an attempt to start shaving the odds.

23:53, Today: Orinastron rolled 34 using 1d100. Bow (81 * 2/3 = 54).
23:53, Today: Orinastron rolled 19,1 using 1d20,1d8. Location, Damage.

A good shot and to the head no less but a glancing blow.  By the Moon, his aim is a little off.  Running up that slope left him a out of breath and probably with a slight shake in his left arm.  Focus!

Orinastron will prepare another arrow ready for another shot.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 214):

What's your Special Effect if he fails his evade? He is unarmoured, so it will bite.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 215):

Actually, scratch that last request - he rolled 02 for the evade, and that of course is critical (but always worth stating your SE up front in case you get one). The individual concerned scoots quickly out of the way and gets himself into cover.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 213):

Tanek dives for cover, but his reaction comes a little too late.  Fortunately for him, a breeze kicks up just enough to deflect the shot right before it strikes home.

06:44, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 78 using 1d100. Evade (53) - Arrow.
06:51, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 29 using 1d100. Evade (53) - Arrow (Luck).

I'd imagine my sling prep is ruined so I'll abandon that and crawl towards a boulder to roll downhill with my action.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 206):



People seem happy to stick their heads up so they get a shot at the people down the hill - let me know if you went ahead with the casting

[OOC:

My intent is for Sanjar to manipulate Range to 1, Targets to accommodate everyone friendly, so 3mp/Actions.

06:37, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 17 using 1d100. Casting Check ( 72 ).

/OOC]

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 219):

Sanjar had previously declared his spell was prepped, so despite the casting time I will have it triggered on first turn/action of the round.

You note that the men who are without missile weapons, 5(?) of them, are also without shields, so when Kordan appears and starts training his bow at the crossbowman, they start scurrying about to where trees and overhanging branches will give them some shelter.

The round moves on - Rhaskos is out of view of the enemy and scrabbling for some fist sized rocks to throw; Tanek has hit the dirt, is effectively out of view from the enemy as he moves to prep a big rock;

Turn 2

SR25 Orinastron is first to take his next turn and is reloading;

Kordan continues to aim his bow; down below his target is reloading the heavy crossbow with remarkable speed, keeping an eye on Kordan and ready to evade if forced to, all the while shoulting in Jekkarene, you can presume less than gentle encouragement to some of his fellows;

SR 23 The archer with his moon-shaped bow quickly flips another arrow to his string, draws and shoots at Kordan. 05. Critical.

Kordan needs to Evade, or trust to Sanjar's sorcery...

Are you accounting for the fact that RQ6 added 1 turn to the reload time of everything?  (Except for slings, which RQ6 added 2 turns to, sorry Tanek, bows ARE better.)

So instead of a 1 turn reload time for bows, it's 2 turns now?


If that's already been accounted for, then I would like to spend a Luck point to have him reroll the attack.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 221):



I have accounted for that - there's a combat style trait in play.

The forced re-roll is a 47 (miss, but only just).

Kordan holds firm with his aim, as an arrow shaft sails so uncomfortably close to his face as he can hear the hiss of air and imagines the feathers brush his very cheek...

Turn 2 continued...

Tanek I know about (he is starting his load time on a boulder); Rhaskos now has a fist-sized rock clutched in one hand and another in the fold of his tunic. Not sure what Sanjar is doing now (let me know and I'll catch him up)?

Apart from the lightning fast archer and the shouting crossbowman, the other foes are dithering.

kordan completes his aim; on his first turn of next round he'll be able to loose his arrow at full chance...


Turn 3

Orinastron is reloading and is ready to shoot at the first turn of next round; the crossbowman continues his laborious reloading process

The archer looses yet another shaft, this one goes well wide, his rush to loose a hail of arrows being impressive but unkind to his aim;

On SR 17 Rhaskos pops up and throws a rock, which strikes the archer in his right arm (3 damage), makes him yelp and stuns him for a moment;

Turn 4

The round is not yet over...the crossbowman continues his reload - he has 4 actions!

Wrap up anything I have missed; then on to Round 2...notify me of any changes of intent.

Kordan's plan is to let fly with his arrow on turn 1, then move to assist Tanek with the boulder on turn 2.  Ideally, breaking line-of-sight to the missile weapon folks down below while doing so.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 223):

While Tanek is working on the boulder, he turns to Kordan and grins, "Boulders are kind of like sling stones for giants!"

Orinastron is preparing to loose another arrow

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 225):

Who at?

Crossbow man or archer? Or one of those doing their best not to be a target?

Once Sanjar is finished casting he will ready his bow, take a turn to aim and shoot at the crossbowman, or if he is dead/down at the archer.

01:20, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 23 using 1d100. Bowshot (32+16:48).

Desired Effects/Maneuvers: Impale + Bleed

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 227):

Looking ahead to actions being taken and rolls needed

Round 2, Turn 1

SR 25 is Orinastron taking his shot (I believe he completed his reload last action)

SR 23: the archer's arm is out of action at this point, he's furiously shaking it like in pain, keeping an eye above in case he needs to evade

SR 21: Sanjar now has an arrow to his bow, steps forward and starts aiming (NB this is a one round action, one turn)

SR 20 - crossbowman will be finishing his reload

SR17 - that's when Rhaskos lets fly with his second rock

SR 13 - Kordan takes his aimed shot

So to summarise, I need Orinastron's and Kordan's attack rolls. Tanek is busy levering up and prepping a big old rock to play bowls with.

Orinastron will fire at the crossbowman as he clearly seems to be a threat.

21:56, Sun 07 Apr 2013: Orinastron rolled 47 using 1d100 ((47)). Sorry... Skill is 81 * 2/3 = 54

Hit

22:03, Sun 07 Apr 2013: Orinastron rolled 3,8,7 using 1d20,1d8,1d8 ((3,8,7)).

The arrow is true. That's an impale for 8 damage to the right leg.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:06, Sun 07 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 229):

Orinastron looses an arrow at the crossbowman (whom he clocks is no Jekkarene)...but the target sees is coming, and makes a dodge (roll 13), which leaves him on the ground. He then realises the arrow has struck home on his unarmoured leg for 8 damage, and his leg is rendered useless.

The archer takes his action to no discernable effect, perhaps dithering...

Sanjar draws his bead...

The man with the crossbow (SR20) stays on the ground and drops the quarrel in his hand onto the cocked crossbow, ready to shoot. He's still shouting, in Jekkarene, 'Come on boys, up there and at 'em!'

Rhaskos steps up and hurls another fist-sized rock down the steep slope, but this time throws well wide (93)

The other men down amongst the rocks and trees dither again, perhaps awaiting the outcome of the turn...
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:03, Mon 08 Apr 2013.

11:33, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 20 using 1d100. bow shot.

Hit, CM impale, if he fumbles evasion then also choose location head abdomen or chest, whichever appears least armored.

11:51, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 11,7,1,6 using d20,d8,d4,d8 with rolls of 11,7,1,6. hit results.

Impale chest for d8+d4 = 8 damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:54, Sun 07 Apr 2013.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 232):

NBear with me chaps, have spotted that Orinastron's shot should have been a hit with no SE, as the Evade roll is an opposed roll (so it was successful but was not higher than the attack roll). Will sort out the retcon and revert shortly.

UPDATE: message 230 has been edited
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:03, Mon 08 Apr 2013.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 232):

Round 2 continued...



I ruled his Evade as one grade harder, already being on the ground an' all; so he missed it; Kordan's arrow thumps home into the man's armoured chest - that's got to hurt.

The turn is done - we are back to Orinastron on Turn 3

SR25 - Orinastron's action - reload?

SR23- the archer appears to have used a cantrip to put his arm back into working order

SR21 - Sanjar is still aiming

SR20 - Crossbowman takes his shot - being impaled he is overall 2 grades harder, half chance

The shooter's bolt arcs harmlessly into the air above the characters' heads - not even close.

What is Kordan doing - does he now go join Tanek prising up boulders?

Rhaskos has now collected a second rock.

Otherwise I think all actions for the round are done.

Orinastron prepares another arrow and is aiming for the archer if he can see him, otherwise one of the handful scrambling up the slope.

Yeah it's boulder rolling time.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 236):


Intermission over....Round 3

SR25 - Orinastron finishes knocking an arrow to his bow...

SR23 - the man on the ground (Sanjar sees he may be a fellow countryman from Morkesh) with 2 arrow wounds has dropped his crossbow (this is a free action) and is readying his shield instead.

SR21 - Sanjar looses his arrow at the archer (since the crossbowman went down just as he prepped his aim, and the instruction was to aim at the archer in that case).

Roll damage - I rolled a leg location (5), and the target failed to evade...

Orinastron barely notices the flicker of Sanjar's arrow through his peripheral vision.  He draws his arm back slowly in a fluid motion and exhales slowly, imploring the Silver Mother to let his aim be true...

[OOC:

06:49, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 7 using 1d8. Impale Damage.
06:49, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 2 using 1d2. Damage Bonus.
06:49, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 2 using 1d8. Initial Damage.

/OOC]

Sanjar's immediately ducks behind cover  (perhaps a tree?) to minimize exposure while reloading.

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 239):

SR 21 cont...

Sanjar's shot strikes home, impaling the archer, now prone from his failed evade, in his unarmoured leg and eliciting a sharp cry of pain.

(Endurance roll 44 - The target makes his Endurance roll and beat's Sanjar's attack roll of 23, so he's not out of action)

SR20 - The archer pulls himself to his feet, shouting to those who are hanging back to come to his aid. Crossbowman has acted already (sorry, confused their SRs)

SR 17 - But now Rhaskos hurls another rock in his direction, adding to the storm of missiles cast down from the high ground...but this one fails to find a mark (34)

The rest of the party are prepping their big boulders to hurl

SR15 - two of the others dash out of cover towards the crossbowman, who is still on the ground and prepping his shield to cover himself, a third dashes towards the archer as he struggles to his feet, cursing.

Round 3, Turn 2

SR25 - Orinastron has a shot; three unarmoured men have exposed themselves to fire, the archer is on his feet despite an impaling arrow wound to his thigh, perhaps about to run (limp) for cover, the crossbowman is still down, two arrows in him, but grasps his shield.

Rhaskos is by Orinatron's side, ready to fling another stone - Kordan and Tanek are busy behind the scenes, another round to go at least before they are ready; Sanjar has stepped into cover to knock another arrow...

Orinastron looses the arrow at one of the three men breaking from cover but it flies wide...

22:50, Thu 18 Apr 2013: Orinastron rolled 67 using 1d100 (Bow 81 * 2/3 = 54).

Orinastron reaches back round to his quiver and draws a other arrow, maintaining his unflinching gaze on the targets scurrying around below him.  His target has been luckier than he can know.  Fortune will not favour him so a second time.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 241):

SR23 The crossbowman, now with his shield, struggles to his feet, holding the shield up towards you all to block any stones and arrows coming his way

SR21 - Sanjar is reloading

SR20 - The archer, cursing in Jekkarene at those who have broken cover to assist him, gets into cover where the boughs of the trees block the line of sight between those at the top of the slope and those at the bottom.

SR 17 - Rhaskos launches his second rock at one of the unshielded mean who have broken cover. This time he finds a mark, and since the target either does not see the rock coming or considers himself hard enough to take the shot, he does not evade. Rhaskos scores a stun location and delivers 4 damage to the left leg - this fellow yelps in pain and staggers, dropping down on one knee and looking up to where the rock was thrown with some concern

SR 15 - The guy who was hit by Rhaskos limps for cover - one of the others retrieves the crossbow that had been dropped to the floor earlier - the third offers some futile assistance to the wounded crossbowman as if to usher him away...you can now see these men are all scurrying to where they are sheltered from further attacks, but the crossbowman and two of the unarmoured men (one with a hatchet and dagger in his belt, the other with what looks like a boat hook wielded as a spear) are still in view.

Round 3 Turn 3

SR25 Rhaskos reloading

SR23 Crossbow guy gets to move out of sight and line of fire, raging against the arrow stuck in his belly through his armour

SR21 Sanjar reloading (2nd turn, able to shoot on next)

SR20 Archer man out of sight, not clear what he is doing, but you suspect that having one fo Sanjar's arrows stuck in him may have something to do with it

SR17 - Rhaskos turns to Kordan and Tanek as the rock they are working on is prised up and Kordan starts preparing to heave it into his arms, and shouts:

'I think they are running!'

SR15 The last of the 'others make it out of sight - but you know they are down there, with just the leaves and tree branches obscuring your view. You can try more shots, but the combined difficulty (Formidable + 1 step harder range modifier) is now Herculean (1/10 skill).

Well that's exactly the kind of challenge Orinastron enjoys...

21:07, Fri 19 Apr 2013: Orinastron rolled 70 using 1d100 (Bow 81 * 1/10 = 08).

Shame...  Well at least they will have an arrow flit through the foliage at their heels.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:09, Fri 19 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 243):

So what's the party doing - for the time being I am still counting in rounds, if not in turns...?

Intents for Turn 4

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 244):

Look around sadly that there's no targets.

Ummmmm.    So what's our next move?  Does anyone want to go after them.  I confess I'm perplexed by the presence of two foreign vessels althought I still think the other one is Haliskome's.

Is it worth exploring the rest of the island maybe?  Perhaps they aren't here by chance but are looking for something?

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 245):

Round 4



This turn, with Kordan's help, Tanek is basically done getting a big rock to heave down the slope - but noone is lining up to be bowled over at this point...

A voice barks out in Jekkarene

Sanjar finishes reloading then steps forward to call out in Assabian, hoping the fellow previously indicated is indeed a Morkeshite.  "Ho there!  Aren't we a bit far from home to be killing one another?  Well, for me to be killing you at any rate.  Lay down arms, countryman, and come out... and perhaps we can parlay this into something less needlessly bloody."

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 248):

Round 4 (NB round is 5 seconds, so I am roughly timing the parlay)

Sanjar calls out some words in his native tongue...

Gasps of pain from below, and much fussing about and cursing beyond the covering foliage

Tanek and Kordan heave up a great stone in triumph, and look rather crestfallen that there's nothing obvious to do with it at this point...still, they place it in a spot where it is ready to roll if called for...


Round 5-6

A response in In Morkeshite

A great roar and a detectable sight of relief from below...

Orinastron relaxes his bowstring, and calls out in his own native tongue, repeating Sanjar's statement, and it seems adding some words of his own.

A few beats before..

Round 7

A call in Morkeshite


Round 8

Check out your social skills - Deceit, Influence, Orate etc - and bank a roll or two if you have a particular effect you want to produce or lie to tell.

Orinastron will let Sanjar do the talking.  He is just trying to figure out if they are being lied to, presuming there is some part of the exchange he can understand!

20:52, Today: Orinastron rolled 14 using 1d100. Deceit (37).

"So Tanek, me be thinkin' me bow worked out better'n your sling, again.  Tha's sumptin like every time now.  What you gon' be doing about that?"

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 251):

"Bah, this is the first time I even tried to use it. Being 1 for 1 is something a child would crow over.  Anyway. Doesn't sound like we're going to get to squash anyone at this rate."

Orinastron looks askance at the pair, "Remind me to stay upwind next time you're swinging your breech clout around again, Tanek.  It might subdue the women in Thyrta but its no way to subdue an enemy in the field."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:16, Sun 28 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 253):

"Hah! They be trembling with fear! Plus, the pretty Korantian lasses be liking a big captain..."

"'The Big Captain'. Is that what you call it my friend?!"

Orinastron turns to Sanjar, "Any reply from those Morkeshites down below?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:16, Sun 28 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 255):

Round 10 (allowing round 9 for the badinage between the characters)

A response In Jekkarene:

"Ramassa? - kerte gar nol nautos, ses? Prodotes, heh?! Son Kisethentyes, hoplomachos di porphoroplanetas"

[OOC:

14:00, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 9 using 1d100. Influence (52).
14:00, Today: Sanjar Zand rolled 32 using 1d100. Insight (30).

Attempting to read the individual and gather information etc. while engendering some friendly dialog and trust building.  Such as may be.

/OOC]


Sanjar replies down the hill, again in Assabian.  "Djesmir, actually.  I'm afraid I don't share your Morkeshite propensity for kneeling to foreigners.  That said you know it always poor form to ask a Sorcerer his business.  You may end up finding out." he says, his tone full of humor.

"But I very much doubt that our business has much to do with yours, at any rate.  I have no dealings with the Jekkarid.  What of yourself?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Wed 24 Apr 2013.

Orinastron speaks in a lower voice to the party, "The Jekkarene with the crossbow is the master at arms with the Purple Wanderer which may mean that is it out in the lagoon.  I'm trying to find out"

Calling down the slope he continues the parlay with Kisethentyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:16, Sun 28 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 258):

Orinastron:

OK, taking your earlier banked roll as Deceit now, and Sanjar's Influence roll to intimidate with the threat of sorcery.

Counting out rounds 11-15 for the inputs from Sanjar and Orinastron.

Round 16

Pause - clearly folks down below are considering the information and the questions raised

Round 17

More pause, then in Jekkarene a longer response (rounds 17-22)

Orinastron edges back a bit and turns to the party,

'Keep an eye out in case they are flanking us.  I fear this Jekkarene is keeping us engaged in conversation  whilst the others work their way around us.  I could be wrong but best to be alert.  We can hear but one of them and have no idea where the others are.

'In any case, this parlay isn't going well.  They are Haliskome's men, claim this is their island and they are not to be messed with, whether we have a sorceror or no. He says we should either come down and fight them on the level or make good for the injury we have caused them.

'What do you want to do, or want me to say?'
This message was last edited by the player at 23:15, Sun 28 Apr 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 260):

That takes care of rounds 22-29.


Round 30...

OOC

Simulacrum - what are our immediate environs?  We are at the top of a rocky slope.  Looking down and to our left and right does the slope lead more gently down to the foreshore where the Purple Wanderer's shore party retreated into the trees and undergrowth?  Is our line of sight open to our left and right flanks or could we be approached unseen?

Orinastron is extremely agitated that we are about to be outflanked.

/OOC

Orinastron retrieves his bow and arrow, ready to shoot at a moments notice if needs be.  He calls out again down the slope in his native tongue.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 263):




There are certainly places further towards the water (South) that you could scramble up, and some may be easier/quicker than here. To the north not so much, the slope breaks into cliffs and sheer drops after a hundred meters or more, which get steadily higher as they loop around the shore, until they drop off towards the water again on the other side of this horseshoe-shaped area.

EDIT: Sorry, forgot to respond on as key point - it is certainly possible for someone to flank you unseen if they take a wide enough berth - there's a lot of trees and and rough terrain breaking line of sight


Round 30 - orinastron starts shouting in Jekkarene again (this will take until round 33). What's everyone else doing?


I'll rustle up a sketch map as asked, maybe tonight after Game of Thrones...
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:13, Mon 29 Apr 2013.

Kordan re-readies his bow and comments softly to Sanjar, "Hey Boss?  How long we be standing here conversating?  Until reinforcements be arriving?"

Sanjar stands looking down the slope with a bemused expression, though his eyes betray some deeper thought and tension.  "A good question.  If I thought those reinforcements would be ours, I think that sounds about right.  As it is... not so much.  We bloodied them, but we are still somewhat outnumbered.  Yet I don't like our presence being revealed if we can help it.  How do you gentlemen see our chances if we go down at them?  My gut tells me not to try it." he says quirking a brow and his amusement only seeming to grow.  "But it would be all the more lively a tale if we did manage it."

Orinastron looks slightly askance at Sanjar, 'Officers...' he mutters under his  breath.

'Up here we have all the advantages.  If we charge down that slope we throw them away and place ourselves at a clear disadvantage - we will be in the open and do not know where they are.' With a smile he continues, 'But, if you wish to be in a ballad then charge on and I will remain here to ensure that your tale will be told '

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 266):

Well, you completed your protective ward, right? How long will it last? No amount of protection will guarantee success against much larger numbers, but I don't relish the thought of disengaging and allowing them to be well prepared for our next meeting.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 268):

Round44

In Jekkarene:

basilea te Haliskome! Nasos de s'aoute!

In reply to Sanjar Zand (msg # 257):

Round 45-46

A different voice, in Morkeshite, fully intelligable to Sanjar


Round 47...

"Sanjar, what line are they spinning you?  They claim this island in the name of 'Queen' Haliskome and don't mind admitting they are renegades.  This is a dangerous bunch and our commission is to see their 'Queen' dead." Orinastron turns to Rhaskos and whispers, "Scout about kid, see if they are circling around us."

Orinastron, raises his voice and yells back down the slope in his native tongue

Stands quietly for a moment stroking his beard and the charms therein before he speaks, his expression pensive.   "One of them claims to be of Morkesh.  And a trafficker in Daemons with no small boasting of his martial prowess." he says.  A moment of pause  before he turns from looking down the slope to facing the rest of the group. "I can ward you against Daemons, yet if he is using them instead to  empower himself directly, that may prove... somewhat more difficult to overcome.  Yet we are still left with having to confront 'Queen ' Haliskome in some fashion, at some time.  I'd rather it be as much of a surprise as can be managed.  I say we put them on  their heels at the very least."

Sanjar's eyes turn thoughtful for a moment before he turns his gaze, and voice, once more back down the hill.

Orinastron rocks back on his heels and looks up at Sanjar, 'I agree we have to deal with them but this isn't the time.  Unless we can entice them back up this hill and I doubt they will be so stupid a second time. They have the numbers so to concede this position to rush them is to invite disaster. Better that we withdraw and look for another opportunity.  Or, do you think you could entice your little native friends to assist us?'

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 273):

Round 70...

Rhaskos barks back to the party;

Friends, there are people coming at us from the South...they must have scaled the hill further down! I can't yet see how many, what are we to do?!

Round 71. Intents please.

This message was deleted by the player at 19:41, Wed 08 May 2013.

Lets ambush the ambushers...  They will be approaching from the south looking ahead and left expecting to see us.   Quickly shift off their line of approach a few meters to their right.    Orinastron will stay in position though as a decoy hoping the party can intercept before the intruders reach him.  Bow ready with an arrow ready to fire.

Sanjar readily agrees.  However he also notes that his stealth can be less than sterling... So offers to stand with the bait.

If the ones still down the embankment from us are in the right position, I think Tanek and I should roll a boulder down on them.

If not, I'll take cover behind the boulder and take aim down the hill.

Is there any sort of slope towards the south?  If so, we could always roll the boulder that way instead.

OOC. I had a look at the game map.  There's no pronounced slope to the south.  The slope they were at the bottom of is facing East.  Simulacrum will correct me but I think it's just a gentle rise over scrub to the south - they have circled around us. /OOC

Orinastron will endeavour to keep the conversation going with those below, he yells again in Jekkarane in the hope of having them think he still believes the parlay is ongoing.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 279):

It's fairly steep (but yes, decreasingly so) all the way South down to the water, and then overlooks the water including where you had a vantage point over the ship

Moving North it is increasingly steep and eventually turns to cliffs. Where you are is probably the last readily manageable scramble up or down the rise before the cliffs occur.

Since the initial encounter almost 6 minutes have passed.

Orinastron's original statement was to retire into cover to the West, back from the slope; have you cancelled that?

OOC West is towards the slope, I mean East.   If they are coming on us from the South they will expect us to be near the end of the slope towards their front left.  I meant that Rhaskos, Tanek and Kordan could move back from the slope, eastwards, therefore putting themselves in a position to ambush the ambushers.

But... perhaps I misunderstood.  Are they coming up the slope (ie climbing up it in an eastwards direction) at a point south of us or have they been in a wide circle and are already atop the slope and are now advancing in a northerly direction towards us from the south?  I thought the latter but could have misunderstood.  If i'ts the former my idea makes no sense. /OOC

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 281):



Yes, apologies, I mis-stated West when I mean East, backing away from you position to have a flank of anyone approaching drom the South. Tanek has not stated intent, but he an Rhaskos could follow this lead; Kordan has already determined otherwise.



Already atop the slope and approaching along the top of it from your South. So yes you understood right.

'Rhaskos, Tanek, Kordan - do you think you can get back away from the edge of the slope and into cover so you can ambush them?  The renegades are coming up on us and are already atop the slope.  I'll  stay here with Sanjar.'

Orinastron will knock an arrow, edge behind the nearest obstacle that obscures him from anyone approaching from the south and watch out for the first sign of a target.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 283):

Kordan ducks down behind cover, if available, and takes aim with his bow towards the approaching ambush.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 284):

I'll ready spear and shield and back away from the edge as requested.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 283):

Orinastron takes control - calls to some of the party to back away from the slope into cover, hopefully to flank those approaching from the South. He himself knocks an arrow to his bow as they do so - except Kordan, the big man trying to look small behind a boulder and able to glance down to his right to see if trouble is also approaching from the original direction below; and Sanjar, the sorcerer who seems ready to stand with Orinastron as bait.


I will take all actions for that round to be load, ready weapon, move and dither, so the stage is set at the start of round 71 where four men emerge from the trees and ground cover and come into view already at a range of some 25-35m. Three of them look like common sailors, two armed with long boat hooks used as spears, the other with a hatchet in one hand and a dagger in the other; but the fourth wears some armour - leather jerkin, helm and bracers - he has a buckler in one hand held towards you, and in the other a weighty harpoon held overhand, perhaps ready to throw. You have not seen this man before. One of the others is shouting, in Jekkarene:

"We're here, we see them! now's the time boys!"

New initiative rolls please everyone

17:38, Today: Orinastron rolled 22 using 1d10+16. Initiative .

Orinastron is going to assume that the other half of the group will now make a dash up the slope down to the right whilst we are entangled with the newcomers approaching from the south.  He will assume that but not check as he knows he has a few rounds until they can scramble up the slope (I forget how many it was at a rush?).   So... his first arrow is aimed squarely at one of the common sailors carrying a boat hook.

17:43, Today: Orinastron rolled 15,8,6 using D20,d8,d8. Location, Damage, Damage (Impale).
17:42, Today: Orinastron rolled 14 using 1d100. Bow (81).

8 damage to the right arm when the time comes.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:46, Thu 16 May 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 287):

07:48, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 13 using 1d10+7. Initiative.

Tanek will move south along the ridge, hopefully unseen as of yet.  Shield raised warding both arms, chest, and abdomen. (Still need to see, right?)

07:57, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 79 using 1d100. Banked.

11:57, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 12 using 1d10+6. Initiative.

OOC

I'll be out of the loop for the next day or so.  Orinastron's basic idea is to fire arrows at the newcomers, taking down the unarmoured ones to even the odds.  He will keep half an eye on the slope up which he and the rest of the party ascended earlier in case the rest of the Jekkarene shore party attempts to scale it and outflank us.  If anyone looks like getting past Tanek, Kordan and Rhaskos to Sanjar and himself he will drop his bow and draw sword and shield.  He will do what he can to protect Sanjar if needs be.

/OOC

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 290):

Apologies for the brief hiatus - has been a busy few days and weekend. I have tome to catch up tomorrow - let battle commence!

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 291):

The Fight on The Ridge

OK - since all players rolling initiative so far rolled 6+ I shall apply that to Sanjar and Rhaskos. This means for the party:

Orinastron: 22
Sanjar: 21
Rhaskos: 20
Tanek: 13
Kordan: 12

Turn 1

SR22 Orinatron looses an arrow at one of the unarmoured 'sailors' heading towards you from the South. his target tries to dodge the arrow, but flunks it...and for his troubles gets pinned right through the arm (impale, major wound). He immediately bites the dust, hors de combat!

SR22 Down the slope the archer seen earlier moves out of cover of the overhanging branches and into the open where he can take a shot - he has an arrow knocked, reloads caught between his fingers hanging down from his cheek to where he has drawn the bowstring...at this point he could get a shot at Orinastron, Sanjar or Kordan; Tanek and Rhaskos are out of the way. But he does not shoot yet.

SR21 Sanjar's turn

This message was deleted by the player at 21:39, Sun 26 May 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 293):

Tanek thinks to himself, "It sure is true that time seems to slow down when you're in a high danger situation."

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 294):



LOL. I think I'll take an executive decision for Sanjar this weekend and move on. It's pretty clear his current play is to stand fast but I shall presume he will use his bow.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 295):

SR21: Sanjar pauses, his bow drawn;he will allow the range to close to get a better shot, or if he has the chance, to take the further advantage of a round aiming.

SR20: Rhaskos bides his time (dither action) alongside Tanek - the enemy are not yet close enough for a clear shot with his javelins

SR19: A mob of men, led by the Morkeshite with whom words and shots were earlier exchanged, breaks cover below, and runs for the slope up towards the party. Their leader holds his buckler over his head and keeps his other hand free for the climb. They are lightly armoured or unarmoured, and so are likely to make the climb quicker than the party did before. More than that, they are trying to do it at top speed, taking a run up and bounding up the rocks (Hard Athletics roll).

Five make the run, including the leader; one of them manages to launch himself up a viable route and is soon springing up towards you like a mountain goat (he may be with you by the end of round 2). One of his fellows does likewise, but as he competes for first place finds himself blocked from going foreard by his fellow, caught with no where to jump to and nothing to hold on to, and falls back (fumbled). Landing badly on one arm (reduced to zero, failed Endurance), this man's rapid descent blocked everyone else, the man from Morkesh included, from making any headway this round.

SR14: The new arrivals who have flanked the party press forward even though one is already shot through the arm by Orinastron and out of action. Two of his comrade break into a run  - their move is CHARGE, so as to most quickly close the distance between themselves and the archers before them; Orinastron is first in line to get hit, and can expect that to happen about the time he is ready to lose his second arrow. The other man, hefting a weighty harpoon, has yet to act.

SR13 and 12 - time for Tanek (13) and Kordan (12) to act...

As Kordan has been taking aim towards the approaching ambush, he'll ho ahead and loose an arrow at the chap with the harpoon charging Ori.

Wimpy rolls, 5 damage to left arm, but impaled so arrow will be stuck in and hamper things.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 298):

Did I make it any distance down along the backside of the ridge, or am I still located near Orinastron?  If I haven't been seen yet, I'll wait for the pair of chargers to get within range and engage them.

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 299):


Kordan's shot actually goes wide - he's in the 21-40m range category and so one grade of difficulty harder (so requiring 42 or less). He can bump that to a success by waiting until the enemy have got closer in turn 2 or 3, but the situation may have changed.

Re Tanek's Questions:
Well there are two fellows currently running at Ori. You and Rhaskos, by dithering (not using) your first action can take a shot at intercepting their charge as they come past you on your second turn. Rhaskos will do so by flinging a javelin at one of them; if Tanek picks his moment and comes charging out of cover he'll need to make either an Athletics or Evade roll to time the intercept right and get in an attack (this may be opposed by the target's Evade).

If Tanek succeeds in a Stealth roll he can gain (or negate) a grade of difficulty.

On Tanek's SR the man in leather armour and carrying the harpoon takes his turn too - jogging forward to bring himself within a ready throwing range.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:50, Thu 30 May 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 300):

I'll dither then to rush up and stab on turn 2. It won't be a charge per se.
No rolls yet as situation still has plenty of time to change.

I guess I don't quite have as clear of the tactical layout as I thought I did.  My impression was that Ori, Tanek and myself are not terribly far apart, and that by shooting at one of the guys charging at Ori I'd be shooting at a nearer target than I apparently am.

Rereading, I see that I mentioned my target as being "the chap with the harpoon charging Ori", which isn't accurate as the harpoon fellow hadn't acted yet and so wasn't charging.  Apparently I read it too fast, that may have led to some confusion.

My intention was to shoot at whichever of the fellows charging Ori were closest to him.  That may not change anything, and my action still stands.

What's the tactical feasibility of pushing the boulder down on the men coming up the hill at this point?  If that's still a possibility, then I'll set myself towards that task.  Otherwise will reload.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 302):

It doesn't matter which one Kordan shoots at, they will not be in range for no penalty on the first turn, still more than 20m away; so he misses.

I'll try update the tactical map tonight

He is however well placed to heave a rock down the slope, having previusly got one ready...

Turn 2

And so we are back to SR22 - and Orinastron

Orinastron intends to loose his arrow at the renegade charging him then drop his bow to draw his sword and shield (currently slung over his back).  If someone is about to run him through he will prefer to evade, moving to his from left - towards Kordan and Tanek rather than his right which would out the renegades atop the slope between him and his fellows.

21:37, Today: Orinastron rolled 99 using 1d100. Bow (81).

Uh-oh.  I suppose the run of good luck had to end sometime!
This message was last edited by the player at 13:39, Sun 02 June 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 303):

Remaining CA and next round CA's will be devoted towards heaving the rock downhill.

Lol - Ori, shoot them not your foot.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 305):

[OOGMC] Sorry gents - am in the middle of a rather complex bit of business so have been a bit distracted.

Ori - you need two actions to load...so if you choose to do so they may be on you before you get to shoot.

Kordan - Your boulder - it's prepped (I previously assumed siege weapon type load time), I would call it a whole round action to use, hence let go on your first action next round. You can use Brawn as your attack roll. I'll randomise how many in the path adjusted by whether your roll succeeds or not. Fumble and you drop it on your foot...

While preparing to heave the boulder down, I'm going to holler downhill:

"Quit the field Morkeshite!  It only be a few years since you bowed to the Taskans, I be sure you remembering how!"

I'll roll for the attack once turn 2 starts, so as not to influence anybody else's actions.

OK if they're close the Orinastron doesn't shoot - he is dropping the bow to draw his sword and shield.  Am assuming the fumble means he gets himself a bit tangled doing it.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 308):

Just so I know how much caution to throw to the wind, is Sanjar's damage resistance spell still in effect, and what is it's intensity?

In reply to Tanek Sanasin (msg # 309):



It is still in effect, and i believe at intensity 8. This is no longer overblown by a hit in excess of 8 points but acts like armour - however it can also be bypassed with a crit.

The foe are either lightly armoured or unarmoured, so you do have significant advantage.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 307):

Turn 2 SR22

While Ori is fumbling about trying to decide if he is drawing his bow or dropping his sword...

The archer below with the gracefully arced 'moon bow' looses a shot at Kordan as the most obvious target - it's going to be a hit...Kordan needs to decide whether to spend an action evading or take the shot and hope the magic works.

SR21 - Sanjar delays, ready to take his bowshot at the other charging man as soon as he is in close range...

SR20 - Rhaskos the huntsman emerges from cover and heaves a javelin at one of the guys charging at Orinastron. His combat trait 'on the fly' reduces the penalty for a sprinting target by one step...and it's a hit. Rhaskos' javelin impales the fellow in the leg for 5 damage, reducing it to 0; the charging sailor flunks his endurance roll and collapses with some drama and flailing of limbs, what with him being mid-charge. Two down.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:47, Tue 11 June 2013.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 311):


*Awaiting Kordan's choice of evade or take the hit from an arrow...


SR19  The fellow bounding up the slope makes more progress, his comrades still in confusion below

SR14 Only one man still charging towards Ori yelling as he goes, not yet aware he is on his own... Sanjar now looses his arrow with no range penalty...but the arrows flies wide (roll 52). But Tanek is closing on him

SR13 Two things happen - Tanek gets his strike in at the charging man, one chance at a hit before he passes out of range and reach on his way to hit Orinastron

Then the guy with the harpoon (think big javelin, extra damage and Size) makes a cast at Tanek, who is suddenly the closest target to his front - but as Tanek is moving quickly across his view to get a strike in, the grade is hard and he misses - but it was a very near thing...

SR12 - Kordan's next turn.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 312):

10:07, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 69 using 1d100. Spear attack (72).
Ooh, nice solid hit there.

Will choose Trip if an SE results.

10:11, Today: Tanek Sanasin rolled 6,7,1 using 1d20,1d8+1,1d2. Spear damage and location.

Looks like 8 damage to the left leg. Trip might have been superfluous.

"I got ya covered Ori!"

Kordan places his trust firmly in his armor, and in Sanjar's strange and wondrous desert magic.  (And prepares to spend a hero point if his trust is unfounded.)  Nothing shall shake him from his path of reigning down death and destruction in the form of a boulder!

10:20, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 75 using 1d100. Brawn attack.

Will await results of getting shot, am leaning towards re-rolling the boulder attack.  Brawn skill's only 34 though so not spectacular odds.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 315):

Kordan is hardly distracted as the arrow from below simply glances off his broad chest (5 damage). So far as his boulder is concerned - without a reroll it won't trouble the chap clambering up towards you, there is a random chance it will inconvenience the gaggle of fellows at the bottom.

Tanek meanwhile brings down his man with his dashing flank attack - 8 damage is a nasty wound to an unarmoured leg. The attack roll is unbeatable without a crit on the endurance and evade, so the target duly ends his charge biting the dust a few meters in front of Orinastron.

Three down.

Turn 3

SR22

Kordan's bravado is challenged within a moment, as the archer flicks another shaft to his bowstring, draws and releases in one breathtakingly fast movement - it's another hit.

Orinastron continues fumbling to exchange bow and shield for sword and arrow or..., but realises with some relief that right now there is no longer anyone left to charge him down. The only enemy still standing up here is the brawny fellow who just cast his harpoon at Tanek without success, and clearly does not have another.

SR21 Sanjar - I have no instructions for, so will treat as delay


SR20 Rhaskos takes aim at the last man standing with his javelin, and would have hit were it not that the target parried the missile with his buckler (apologies you will see this in dice roller rolled as evade - forgot the guy was actually holding up a shield!).

What of Kordan and Tanek?

00:48, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 13 using 1d100. Brawn reroll (hero point).

Boulder attack will be successful now, if easy to evade (hard to not sew it coming).

Gonna be eating another hit from that obnoxious archer.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 317):



Good call, the dice are with you.

Actually not easy to evade at all - since he is scrambling up the slope and has limited options even if he can see it coming - so normal, and failed. 1d3 gives a result of 2, that's two randomly selected fellows waiting for their chance to climb up who also have to evade, one at Easy and one at Very Easy.

In reply to Simulacrum (msg # 318):

Tanek turns to harpoon man and says, "Half your men are down. Time to surrender I think. Tell the remainder to throw down their arms!"

Will use action to delay.

Ori is still fannying around trying to draw his sword. Iaijutsu this ain't...  Once it's out he'll be looking to set about the nearest threat.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:28, Sun 16 June 2013.

In reply to Orinastron (msg # 320):

Kordan has two doses of 4D6 medicine to deal out with his boulder...meanwhile, his reliance on Sanjar's sorcery proves very sound, as a second arrow pings off his belly.

Two doses of momma Mardahar's special medicine, guaranteed to fix her problems.



13:43, Fri 14 June 2013: Kordan Mardahar rolled 19,15 using 4d6,4d6 ((6,2,6,5,5,3,5,2)).

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 322):

...And locations. Spectacular limb, body or head crushing looms.

07:58, Today: Kordan Mardahar rolled 7,14 using d20,d20. hit locs.

Abdomen and right arm.

In reply to Kordan Mardahar (msg # 324):

The sailor scrambling up to the attack is immediately thrown back down the slope by the huge stone launched at him by Kordan. He joins the boulder in its downward trajectory, receiving more punishment on the way until he crashes to a halt near the bottom of the slope...and the fellows below instinctively scatter and dodge the oncoming rush of rock and man...but one of them has spent his share of fortune in this life, and finds himself flat on his back, the rock on top of him, his belly utterly crushed.

Neither of Kordan's targets are likely to be rising again.