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19:41, 28th March 2024 (GMT+0)

Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations.

Posted by DMFor group 0
DM
GM, 5 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 20:14
  • msg #1

Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne looks up at the sky. “Those clouds are awful dark. I'd better find some cover before I wind up caught in a snowstorm,” he says to no one in particular. His eyes alight on a cave a about a half-mile away, across the shallow valley. “That will do.”

Alwanzatar and Westra shiver as a cold wind starts to pick up. Turiya, Alwanzatar's drake, joins them in grunting his displeasure. “We're about to see a fair bit of snow, we'd better find shelter,” Westra says. Alwanzatar squints through the cloud-borne afternoon twilight. “I see a cave not too far from here,” he says.

Aldridge and Saphira, his tireless drake, pause as the thunder echoes across the quiet valley. Saphira hisses politely at the sky, as though to say, “Isn't it cold enough already?” Aldridge looks around for a place to camp out of the coming storm. A cave nearby looks safe enough.

Ryudo rests quietly in a cave, the sharp storm air is clean and fresh against the damp cave smell. “You're a pile of fat ones,” Ryudo says to the three wild yams in his hands. “I'll have to head back down after the storm and see if you've got any friends down there.” Ryudo starts looking around the cave for enough wood for a small fire.

And so it comes to pass that five exceptional Wanderers are huddled together around a small fire in the mouth of a cave, sharing a trio of yams.

(This would be a good time to introduce yourself, where you come from, where you are headed, what motivates you or anything else you wish to share. You should also describe yourself, what visible gear you're wearing and any unique traits that people might take note of.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:53, Mon 20 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 2 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 20:24
  • msg #2

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Noticing the Monkey clan members approaching, Ryudo greets them warmly in River-tongue.  "Welcome all, come join me.  I was just looking to keep myself warm, but company is always welcome!"  He offers his yams to the other Wanderers.

Ryudo doesn't look like much.  A young Ostrich clan member, tall and lanky.  He's dressed in simple clothes and leans on his quarterstaff, even though he clearly doesn't need to.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:50, Mon 20 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 1 post
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 20:53
  • msg #3

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge returns the greeting to Ryudo, "[Language unknown: Chulen rutwi ceicdi, ous. A bleverate adut O whio ureughnde t th enalca ca prus ei, et thioulven isfoai ev ereionrom utofai.]"

Saphira lets out a curious purr, alerting the bard to the two druids behind him. "[Language unknown: Eiin, ssati, art all toeau sitic eners ce mear anmoil ckyin he tioli]," Aldridge reassures the drake. Aldridge studies the present company. His hope for business is low based on their humble garb, but at least the company is a welcome change.

A decided mountain Monkey, Aldridge's thick brown beard provides just as much protection for his face as the furs he travels in. His drum sits atop of his noble pack animal. Just like the rest of his personal possessions, it is notably well-used, and notably well-cared for.

"[Language unknown: Din, offor,]" he says to the room as he rummages through Saphira's saddlebags, "[Language unknown: korncever latvorvor t o illicadin we?]"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Mon 20 Apr 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 1 post
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 21:15
  • msg #4

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar dismounts Turiya, then draws a finger across the polished malachite stone bound tightly to his right wrist. He wears warm furs, cut to allow an unimpeded stride. A handful of daggers and a sling with stones are visible on his belt pouch, but from their condition, they do not appear to have seen much use. [Language unknown: "Oulectherome, berini. He bleasthis ven he ati ounhisromichoul. He k Oeriouartwhiive, o walapa na are eswino k tebetr erendeund ai caou. I neart ratdayeau p notpo lo fohoek, thu et wasreaund ch no adte icaorthat lateretic ne na."]
This message was last edited by the player at 21:16, Mon 20 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 1 post
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 21:17
  • msg #5

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra offers a general greeting to the cave in River-tongue and accepts a yam from Ryudo. "[Language unknown: Ntenck undou e taart whipa thoun wilore'oulant. Il neer oer ll es ectourwasvor evsiai omhe utsa k utou, is chhis he ilpain wamo ni hat, in Ilaint ess vorna witss.]"

Westra is a bit on the small side for a human, though her scale mail armor gives her some bulk. She carries a curious wooden staff in one hand and a shield slung over her shoulder. The others can also see that she has various pouches stored in and around her person, since she has no pack nor beast of burden to carry things for her.

Her black hair is swept up in a messy top-knot to keep it out of her pale face. As she cautiously scans the group of men in the cave, her eyes fall on Airdsgainne. "[Language unknown: Ckelon,]" she says to him, "[Language unknown: M iteen anadme lesthothesanave, Ul a ilonac p ilpr a.]"
Airdsgainne
player, 2 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 21:51
  • msg #6

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

A short, warmly dressed figure sits at the far edge of the fire, appearing to either like cold or dislike company. He introduces himself as Airdsgainne, but otherwise says curiously little for a gnome.

However, he accepts half a yam, offering in return a half smile and a strange blue fruit not seen in these parts.

"[Language unknown: Erut are lo p rehoathe, oulantart]," he replies to the fellow Druid.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:54, Mon 20 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 2 posts
Mon 20 Apr 2015
at 21:57
  • msg #7

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

While the rest of the group exchange salutations, Aldridge adds a couple larger logs to the pit, humming an old tune he learned from the Raccoon clan as he works. Saphira eyes the flames expectantly, edging ever closer to the fire.

"Ah ah ah ah!" he turns to the drake. "[Language unknown: Ssceon tra thoastthiave ureiouicable a ilhou heence na inero etear, loles n ica tedla o t! In la ncofli pr tic iecaev ascefi al fiomca, ati siesek st hasforess t nd ad sepasi k titer loreti menhisred esll ouive iouioulat.]"

The drake hisses but obeys the warning, giving enough berth for the rest of the party to huddle around the fire. Aldridge smiles and shakes his head. "[Language unknown: Oumofo ill lin la stnte ethe. Andthoure aintr at inebleder ounhatman a ntevirund icasetesslat ri hou enc icfoce i mible artaek hasca.]" He lays down on the side of the drake as a pillow, looking around the room at his companions. "[Language unknown: Ai, An Ngchdiut, toer pe le Ivweof. E undof seriun of findlath a ntevenion str heol avene allas houkortho toar, we t cheeas nce ion icouat tioreaave aninfi ateurevorrom ad ntevorartsonant.]" He takes the drum down from the drake and begins to play a soft, soothing beat for the benefit of the cave. Saphira closes her eyes, purring with satisfaction.
DM
GM, 8 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 05:03
  • msg #8

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Saphira eyes the flames ever more insistently, becoming agitated even. Turiya rests lazily behind his master, unconcerned. Saphira hisses at Aldridge, clearly upset.

Just then, a light yellow beast blasts out of the darkness like a bolt of lightning. The lightning tears into Airdsgainne's side, taking large chunks of his abdomen with it. The beast pauses for a moment and the party can make out its shape. It's a large muscular cat with long pointed teeth.




The beast tosses the unconscious Rabbit on the floor. His breathing is shallow and the dim light reflects off the widening pool of blood. (Airdsgainne is a 0 hp and dying. He is not dead, though his condition appears to warrant medical assistance in the near term.)

(The party is now in combat. It is your turn and you may go in any order. Except Airdsgainne, of course. There is a map; see the Table Talk thread for a link.)
Ryudo
player, 3 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 12:41
  • msg #9

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

In a flash, Ryudo moves to the cat and strikes it over it's back with his quarterstaff (attack :19; damage: 4).  As soon as the attack lands, he follows it up with a kick to the cat's stomach (attack: 15; damage: 4).
Westra
player, 3 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 14:24
  • msg #10

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra races to Airdsgainne's side and quickly casts Cure Wounds (+6) over his broken body.
Alwanzatar
player, 3 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 15:24
  • msg #11

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The veins of green on Alwanzatar's malachite crystal burn with a fiery orange light as he conjures a Fire Bolt directed at the cat. (24 vs. AC, 5 fire damage)
Aldridge
player, 4 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 15:44
  • msg #12

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Saphira growls at the inhabitant. "Saphira, [Language unknown: marowi he ameos!]" Aldridge barks. The drake doesn't need a second order, quickly putting herself on the opposite side of the fire from the creature. Aldridge hums a short tune directed at Ryudo to bolster the monk (Bardic Inspiration, d6)

Aldridge takes a few steps back from the beast, as well. "[Language unknown: Ma m reint ur ng onbe ellaeson comastlar condinard homefilo,]" he mutters to himself as he sets an arrow to string. He looses it at the ferocious feline (attack: 23, damage: 5).
DM
GM, 10 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:18
  • msg #13

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The wanderers snap into action at the sight of the beast! A firebolt singes its face. An arrow catches it in the side. And Ryudo captures the cat's attention with a pair of solid strikes to its upper torso.

Quietly, Airdsgainnes' wounds close and his eyes open. He looks up at the teeth looming over him.

Its claw slashes through the air, taking a neat slice out of Ryudo's arm. (6 damage)

(Party's turn again. Everybody is up for this one.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:20, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 4 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:34
  • msg #14

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Again Ryudo lashes out landing another solid blow with his quarterstaff(damage: 5), and following up with a kick to the creature (damage: 5)
Westra
player, 4 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:39
  • msg #15

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra takes a chance in the mist of the fray to lay her staff on Ryudo's shoulder, casting Cure Wounds once again (+10).
Aldridge
player, 5 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:45
  • msg #16

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge looses another arrow, opting for power over accuracy (attack 11, damage 8).
Alwanzatar
player, 4 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:46
  • msg #17

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires off another Fire Bolt. (22 vs. AC, 6 fire damage)
Airdsgainne
player, 3 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 16:53
  • msg #18

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgaine quickly stands and moves behind the monk. As he stretches out a hand, ice coats the creatures fur (Frostbite).
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 11 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 17:21
  • msg #19

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The creature's flesh is simultaneously flamed, frozen (4 cold), and beaten with a stick. Aldridge's arrow flies high, sailing over it, however.

It slashes once more at Ryudo, but the the frost in its bones gives him plenty of time to dodge.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:23, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 5 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 17:30
  • msg #20

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Attempting to finish the creature off, Ryudo swings his quarterstaff, the wooden blur smashes the cat in the face (23 to AC, 9 damage).  Feeling inspired, his follow up attack also lands solidly with the cat's gut (15 to AC, 5 damage)
This message was last edited by the player at 17:35, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 4 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 17:43
  • msg #21

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne stretches out his hand again and vines grow up around the petulant cat (Entangle).
Alwanzatar
player, 5 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:02
  • msg #22

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan continues attempting to turn the cat into a well-roasted meal. (8 vs. AC, 3 damage)
Aldridge
player, 6 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:03
  • msg #23

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge mutters a self-deprecating curse before carefully loosing another arrow (19 attack, 7 damage).
Westra
player, 5 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:21
  • msg #24

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra raises her staff high into the air and shouts the spell to send a Thorn Whip (5 attack, 2 damage) at the troublesome animal.
DM
GM, 12 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:28
  • msg #25

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar and Westra miss, but the rest of the party continues to pummel the beast.

The beast chuffs angrily as the ground grasps at his legs. He rips and tears at the ground, but can't break free.
Alwanzatar
player, 6 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:34
  • msg #26

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I am hungry!" Alwanzatar growls. "Why aren't you dinner yet?" He lobs another Fire Bolt to attempt to remedy the situation. (23 vs. AC, 3 fire damage)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 6 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:35
  • msg #27

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra grunts in frustration and tries Thorn Whip again (5 attack, 4 damage).
Aldridge
player, 7 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:39
  • msg #28

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Feeling a little overconfident over the sight of the tangled kitty cat, Aldridge replaces his bow with his rapier, closing the distance to jab at the agitated creature (AC 10, damage 9).

"Rather than at my attempted strike you laugh, I would suggest you strike him again with your staff," he sings at Ryudo (Bardic Inspiration, d6).
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:29, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 5 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:43
  • msg #29

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne makes an underhanded throw, arcing a sharp icicle over the creature and striking its far side. (Ice Knife, 16 attack, 1 damage, far side = no damage to Ryudo)
Ryudo
player, 6 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:55
  • msg #30

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo takes 2 more swings at the beast, both connecting solidly (18, 18 to AC; 5, 4 damage)
DM
GM, 14 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 18:59
  • msg #31

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The beast falls to the ground under the flurry of quarterstaff blows and arcane projectiles.

(Combat has ended. You may act individually or as a party once more.)
Aldridge
player, 8 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 19:02
  • msg #32

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge heaves a huge sigh of relief. Before he lets down his guard, though, he casts Dancing Lights to the back of the cave to make sure there are no more surprises waiting for them.
Ryudo
player, 7 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 19:04
  • msg #33

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo looks down at the creature with pity.  "Poor thing, probably just wanted in out of the cold same as us.  Can anyone tell how long this storm will continue?"  He says as he looks outside.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:28, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 7 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 19:09
  • msg #34

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra nudges the dead cat with her foot. "Anyone feel like cat burgers?" she says to the room. "I don't know about you, but a yam isn't nearly enough."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:28, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 15 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 19:36
  • msg #35

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge explores the cave thoroughly. There is a large room behind this one. From the fur, it appears that the cat was nestled beneath a small overhang in the back room. It would be very easy to miss a cat hidden there, even if you were looking for it. The cave looks to continue farther down, although the way is currently blocked. There are rocks that have fallen to block the way.
DM
GM, 16 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 20:08
  • msg #36

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(The party gains 270 xp from the Smilodon.)
Westra
player, 8 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 20:21
  • msg #37

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra, after walking around the beast and muttering to herself, decides to go about butchering the cat for its meat. "Does anyone want me to see if I can salvage the pelt?", she asks the cave at large.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:41, Tue 21 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 9 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 20:41
  • msg #38

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Saphira licks her lips at the feline corpse. Aldridge returns from the larger cave entrance to the campfire to calm the drake, and to keep her from curling up in the fire with his goods. His attempt to hide his desire for the cat's skin (and the profit that could come from it) is significantly more effective than his beast's.

"Certainly," Aldridge answers his fellow human. "I know a number of clans who would offer a great deal for the hide of such a savage creature."

"And," he continues, "when we're done, anyone up for a little more exploration further in? There's a little more room for us to move around further in. The storm doesn't seem it will let up any sooner, and the temperatures should be a little more stable."

Saphira moans at the suggestion of moving away from the fire.
DM
GM, 17 posts
Tue 21 Apr 2015
at 20:43
  • msg #39

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra begins to butcher the large animal with a stone knife. It looks like she should be done in about half an hour.
DM
GM, 18 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 15:21
  • msg #40

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The ad-hoc band of wanderers sits for a time around the fire and contemplates their situation. Aldridge spends some time very carefully examining the fallen rocks near the back of tha cave.

Westra completes her task and produces a pile of freshly butchered smilodon meat (about 10 lbs.), a large uncured pelt and two piles of random animal parts and offal, one larger than the other.

It is now about the fourteenth hour.

(The party has completed a short rest.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Wed 22 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 9 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 15:32
  • msg #41

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Would anyone like some of this meat to carry with them?" Westra asks the group. "I have no bag nor room on my person to carry any of it. Also, does anyone have any salt? Curing everything would help it last longer, especially these bits," she gestures at the small pile of animal parts, "which I could use to improve my healer's kit and keep all of you standing should we encounter any more wild beasts." Westra smiles ruefully at the carnage in front of her.

"You are also welcome to grab some meat to cook and eat now. There is too much for any one person." She grabs some of the meat and sets it on a stone that she places near the fire.
Airdsgainne
player, 6 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 15:36
  • msg #42

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"It looks like it'll keep up for a while," Airdsgainne says to no one in particular, with a nod toward the whitewashed entrance.

"Did you see any way through those rocks, Aldridge?" he asks the bard, "I don't fancy meeting more teeth from behind."

With nothing better to do, Airdsgainne wanders around the cave himself (Perception check of the cave, Investigation check of the rocks).
Aldridge
player, 10 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 15:39
  • msg #43

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I think we can go further into the cave past these rocks," Aldridge says to Airdsgainne. "I can move the rocks, but if we're not careful we could cause a cave-in. There's several cracks in the ceiling that are being supported by the rock pillar. Can one of you, I don't know, summon a tree to form a new pillar? If someone can permanently support the ceiling, I can remove the rocks from a distance. Further in, I say!"
DM
GM, 19 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 16:17
  • msg #44

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne inspects the cave.
Aldridge
player, 11 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 16:24
  • msg #45

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

While Airdsgainne inspects the cave, Aldridge turns his attention back to Westra and the bloody floor. "I have some salt to cure the meat, but I was planning on trading it with the next clan we come across. I'm willing to offer a pound of salt for the pelt and enough meat for me and Saphira here." The drake perked at the mention of her name. "And, Saphira will probably willing to carry any of the extra supplies for you at no added cost." The drake snorted. She didn't understand the tongue, but she'd heard that tone before.
Airdsgainne
player, 7 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 16:25
  • msg #46

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

After inspecting the ceiling, Airdsgainne scrambles up the rocks and places his hands on each side of the cracks, one a time, and they pull together until no trace of a seam can be found (cast Mending). He scrambles down with a gnomish grin.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:25, Wed 22 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 12 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 16:34
  • msg #47

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"...Or you could also repair the ceiling," the bard says, impressed. "Who's strong enough to lift these rocks?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Wed 22 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 10 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 16:52
  • msg #48

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra smiles around the dripping meat she holds up to her mouth. "Deal."

After a few minutes more of gnawing on the meat, Westra stands and begins throwing meat, animal parts, and Aldridge's offered salt into various bags hanging from Saphira's sides. "Take the pelt and do with it as you will," she says to Aldridge.

"Now," she says, wiping her hands on her trousers, "Will some of you big, strong men help me with these rocks? Aldridge, make sure I can see back there, would you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Wed 22 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 20 posts
Wed 22 Apr 2015
at 18:15
  • msg #49

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The five wanderers begin work on the heavy stones blocking the way into the cave. Although the lot of them are not exactly paragons of strength, they make up for it via perseverance. In relatively short order, the stones are cleared and the party can see down the passageway.

The passage leads to a thin underground stream, perhaps a hundred paces from the fallen rocks. As the party approaches the stream, the cave widens into a room.

The room is large, but flat and open. It's about a hundred paces front to back and perhaps a hundred and fifty side to side. The stream runs from the right to the left, as the party faces it. The ceiling is about 15 feet high.

Floating over the river, there is a large grey bulbous eye, rotating slowly toward the party. The eye is covered in tentacles that each have smaller eyes on the end. Suddenly…

(You are now in combat. There is no map for this encounter on roll20.net. It is the party's turn. You may post in any order. Since some members of the party may not have full use of all their senses, please post your entire post as a private line to the GM. I will make private lines to the appropriate parties when I post the results of the turn.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:12, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 13 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 13:51
  • msg #50

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Alwanzatar
player, 7 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 14:05
  • msg #51

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Westra
player, 11 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 15:19
  • msg #52

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Airdsgainne
player, 8 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 15:20
  • msg #53

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Ryudo
player, 8 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 16:02
  • msg #54

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:03, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 22 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 16:49
  • msg #55

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations



(It is, yet again, the party's turn. Some players are at least temporarily less sensate, so post your message with a single private line. You can look at the previous turn for examples.)
Alwanzatar
player, 8 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 16:55
  • msg #56

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:57, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 12 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 17:03
  • msg #57

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Aldridge
player, 15 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 17:05
  • msg #58

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Ryudo
player, 9 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 17:11
  • msg #59

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Airdsgainne
player, 9 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 17:21
  • msg #60

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

 (Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 23 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 20:29
  • msg #61

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations


(It is the party's turn again. Post privately like before.)
Westra
player, 13 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 20:40
  • msg #62

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:41, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 16 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 20:43
  • msg #63

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private).
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:45, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 10 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:01
  • msg #64

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private).
Airdsgainne
player, 10 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:12
  • msg #65

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Alwanzatar
player, 9 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:15
  • msg #66

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 24 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:42
  • msg #67

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations


(It is the party's turn again. Post privately like before.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:43, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 10 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:49
  • msg #68

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Ryudo
player, 11 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:50
  • msg #69

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Westra
player, 14 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:54
  • msg #70

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:57, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 17 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 21:57
  • msg #71

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:01, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 11 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 22:07
  • msg #72

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 25 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 22:36
  • msg #73

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations



(It is the party's turn. Post privately.)
Ryudo
player, 12 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 22:38
  • msg #74

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Westra
player, 15 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 22:43
  • msg #75

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:57, Thu 23 Apr 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 11 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 22:55
  • msg #76

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Airdsgainne
player, 12 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 23:19
  • msg #77

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:00, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 18 posts
Thu 23 Apr 2015
at 23:27
  • msg #78

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message content private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 14:50, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 26 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 15:34
  • msg #79

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations







(It is the party's turn. Post privately.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:37, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 16 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 15:54
  • msg #80

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Aldridge
player, 19 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 15:56
  • msg #81

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:17, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 13 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 16:07
  • msg #82

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Airdsgainne
player, 13 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 17:09
  • msg #83

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Alwanzatar
player, 12 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 17:45
  • msg #84

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 27 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:04
  • msg #85

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations



(It is the party's turn. Post privately.)
Ryudo
player, 14 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:08
  • msg #86

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Westra
player, 17 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:21
  • msg #87

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:28, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 14 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:25
  • msg #88

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 20 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:38
  • msg #89

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 13 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 18:44
  • msg #90

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 28 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 19:08
  • msg #91

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations


(Party's turn. Post privately.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:18, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 18 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 19:20
  • msg #92

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:27, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 21 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 19:39
  • msg #93

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:32, Fri 24 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 15 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 21:07
  • msg #94

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
Airdsgainne
player, 15 posts
Fri 24 Apr 2015
at 22:41
  • msg #95

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(Message contents private.)
DM
GM, 29 posts
Sun 26 Apr 2015
at 04:18
  • msg #96

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

 Airdsgainne slices the creature off his face in one more swift thrust upward. And through his deft and careful attention to detail, the druid's nose still adorns his face.

Aldridge, Alwanzatar and Westra are all charging toward Airdsgainne. Ryudo is pale, shivering, and unconscious at his feet. There are a pair of dead aberrations nearby.


(The party gains 180 xp and will be able to gain a level during their next long rest.)

(The party is no longer in combat. Post as usual, in any order. Ryudo is unconscious.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:26, Sun 26 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 19 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 13:33
  • msg #97

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra takes one look at Ryudo and asks Airdsgainne, "He touched the gas spore, didn't he? He'll be dead in 14 hours if we don't find someone who can heal him. I can't. We'll probably have to go in search of a village and hope."

She turns and uses a healing kit on Aldridge (+9).
Aldridge
player, 22 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 13:58
  • msg #98

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge grimaces. It was trouble enough finding a clan that was supposed to be here already. He tries to recall where the closest village could be, let alone a village that would have knowledge of an antidote.

He uses his own healing kit to attempt to stabilize the unconscious Ryudo. "All right, listen up, everyone," he says, pacing around the party as they tend to their wounds and prepare to move on. "The evening has been an eventful one, and not exactly in our favor. We're all still alive, and frankly I would like us to stay that way. Fortune may not have been on our side until now, but if the blizzard has taken pause, I think that we can view that as a sign of the tides turning our way. If we hurry, we can save Ryudo, and maybe even ourselves from this cursed cave. We may not know exactly where the nearest clan is, but we must try."

His speech continues for a full ten minutes as the rest of the party continues their business. Despite the hint of defeatism peppered in his speech, the party is nonetheless inspired by his leadership (Inspiring Leader, +4 temporary HP to all conscious members).
This message was last edited by the player at 16:03, Mon 27 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 30 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 14:41
  • msg #99

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge attempts to revive Ryudo, but all he manages is to prevent him from getting worse. Ryudo is unconscious, but stable for the time being. Ryudo howls quietly.
Westra
player, 20 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 16:33
  • msg #100

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra uses her own healing kit and greater knowledge to heal Ryudo more fully (+9).

"Hopefully we can get on our way soon. Shall we just venture out of the cave and pick a direction?"
Aldridge
player, 23 posts
Bard
Trader
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 17:52
  • msg #101

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo curls up, whimpering. "It burns... Sleep, inside the cave... At least it's safe inside the cave..."

Aldridge tries to reason with him. "We need to leave the cave, Ryudo. There's nothing we can do for you here, you need help." Aldridge turns to the rest of the party. "I saw a path over a hill across from the cave entrance. Where there's a path, there's probably a clan."

Ryudo howls in anguish. "Not over the hill," he growls. "Not over the hill... The green-skinned ones, there are too many..."

Aldridge is confused. "Too many... Green-skinned?"

"There are too many," Ryudo barks. "Maybe pick off a young one for a meal, but there are too many over the hill..."

Aldridge's confusion doesn't dissipate. "This is just a hallucination, right?"

"Too old for fresh meat... Safe inside the cave... Fresh stream... Sleep..."
Ryudo
player, 16 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 18:55
  • msg #102

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo whimpers for a bit, then starts to settle down and come back into the present. “That diseased gas bag handed me some crazy nightmares. I dreamed I was a wolf, running all over the hills around here. There was a band of something or other a few hills over, but I don't recall what they looked like. They had green skin and tasted really good, especially the kids—” Ryudo stops himself. “Err, yeah. I was a wolf. The only q'us I know of with green skin are Terrorclaw clansmen. That's not exactly comforting. But I know where the wolf remembers them. Don't ask me how.”
Alwanzatar
player, 14 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 20:18
  • msg #103

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Trade goods will be helpful if we need to enlist outside assistance," Alwanzatar says. He lays out the darkmantles' organs for drying.
DM
GM, 32 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 20:23
  • msg #104

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

They party surveys the storm outside. The worst appears to have arrived, but it will be at least an hour before things slow down enough that travel isn't suicide but merely dangerous. It might be all night before the storm clears entirely.
Aldridge
player, 24 posts
Bard
Trader
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 20:26
  • msg #105

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Well," Aldridge said as he prepared supplies for another fire, "I don't know about the rest of you, but I need a long rest." The party makes a quick sweep of the cave (Perception 22)  to make sure no more surprises were waiting for them. "Who wants the first watch?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:49, Mon 27 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 21 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 20:28
  • msg #106

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra sighs. "I'm glad I didn't have to say it first. If the Terrorclaws are willing to help, they are close enough to reach in time, and if they aren't, we will at least be ready for them. I'm willing to take first watch."
DM
GM, 33 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 20:48
  • msg #107

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo looks apprehensive about any plan that involves sleeping though the very few hours he has left. “The Terrorclaws are close, though the snow is deep. It took me—” he corrects himself, “—the wolf a bit under an hour from here. But he travels almost twice as fast and the slow will slow us…” He trails off, clearly worried.

(It is known that a wolf travels about 4 miles in an hour. This party will travel only 2.5 miles in an hour. Additionally, the snow may slow travel to as much as a fourth of normal speed.)
Airdsgainne
player, 16 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 21:16
  • msg #108

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"No," Airdsgainne states firmly, "The storm will lighten up in an hour. I'm willing to take Ryudo out then. A short rest will have to do."

"We're looking at fourteen hours. If we take a long rest, we're not going to make it.

"We're just going to have to go then, when it lightens up. We can't hold back and risk Ryudo's life because of a little weather. I don't care what you say, I know blizzards, that storm is going to rage on. Who's with me?

"The cold never bothered me anyway."
Aldridge
player, 25 posts
Bard
Trader
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 21:31
  • msg #109

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge sighed. He didn't like this one bit. The monk didn't deserve to die, but the bard didn't really like the idea of braving the weather in the off-chance that Ryudo MIGHT see another day. On the other hand, this cave wasn't exactly proving to be a safe place to stay long term by oneself. And these geniuses definitely wouldn't survive without him anyway. Even if he didn't speak the tongue of the Terrorclaws, he could at least understand them. Maybe the Terrorclaws would be willing to help his business.

Aldridge sighed again. "Short rest it is, then," he said reluctantly. "We leave when the storm won't definitely kill us." Saphira moaned with dissatisfaction. She was NOT looking forward to the snow.

After everyone had received a short rest, Aldridge played an inspiring tune with his drum (Inspiring Leader, +4 temporary HP to all members).

The storm let up; not enough to be pleasant, but enough to be traversable. "Let's go."
DM
GM, 34 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 21:50
  • msg #110

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(The party has completed a short rest. Those with outstanding injuries may spend one or more hit dice to heal.)

The party ventures out into the snow. The heavy clouds block the sun and the sky the snow is still falling fairly heavily. (Visibility reduced to 60'.) After travelling for an hour, Ryudo looks down and says, “Those are our footprints. We've just crossed ourselves. Are we sure we know which way we're going?”
Aldridge
player, 26 posts
Bard
Trader
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 21:57
  • msg #111

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge casts Dancing Lights, attempting to light up their surroundings. "Can someone at least tell us which direction is north? And failing that, where the cave we came from is?"
Westra
player, 22 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 21:58
  • msg #112

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Lovely," Westra says, shivering under her armor. She calls upon all her survival techniques to try and figure out where they are (Survival check: 13).
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:59, Mon 27 Apr 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 17 posts
Mon 27 Apr 2015
at 22:03
  • msg #113

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airgsgainne mutters something about monitor lizards and takes the lead, guiding the party toward the village as described by Ryudo. (Survival check 14 to not get lost in an environment he personally describes with words like "balmy" and "mild Summer.")
This message was last edited by the player at 22:05, Mon 27 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 35 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 15:04
  • msg #114

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra and Airdsgainne pause and take stock of their surroundings. Westra observes that it is very difficult to get ones bearings without the sky. Still, Airdsgainne finds a large rock formation nearby that Ryudo recognizes and the party is able to continue.
Aldridge
player, 27 posts
Bard
Trader
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 15:15
  • msg #115

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Saphira moans as if to say, "Are we there yet?"

"[Language unknown: Man nde, he, anunho iv ouloulwhe hatal]," Aldridge reassures her. Truthfully, he was more trying to reassure himself. Even more, he wonders how the Terrorclaws would respond to a couple of burdened drakes. Too late to worry about it now, he thinks as he follows the trackers, who he really hopes know what they are doing.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:44, Tue 28 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 17 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 16:34
  • msg #116

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo, without glancing back, mutters quietly to the group.  "We are being followed. how far behind, I do not know, but our mistake in going in a circle has revealed their tracks.  It seems to be a large creature, some sort of wolf perhaps, but with claws."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Tue 28 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 23 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 17:02
  • msg #117

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra searches her mind for information on the creature based on Ryudo's description and what she knows about the area (Nature check: 20).
Aldridge
player, 28 posts
Bard
Trader
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 17:04
  • msg #118

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Upon hearing Ryudo's warning, Aldridge kills the Dancing Lights spells he's been casting, hoping that it isn't too late. He attempts to hide (Stealth 13).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:01, Tue 28 Apr 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 15 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 18:34
  • msg #119

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan attempts to make himself inconspicuous in the heavy snow and sudden darkness. (15 Stealth) As he does so, he quietly prepares to throw a Fire Bolt at the first sign of danger.
Ryudo
player, 18 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 18:37
  • msg #120

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo moves closer to the approach direction of the creature and also attempts to hide (13 stealth).
DM
GM, 36 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 19:49
  • msg #121

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party hunkers down in the snow, attempting to hide from whatever is following. Shortly, a lanky wolf comes into view.

(The wolf is 60' away when it comes into view. The party gets a surprise round. Every party member gets to go first.)
Westra
player, 24 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 19:55
  • msg #122

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"The wolf looks thin and very hungry. I would expect it to be incredibly aggressive and unpredictable," Westra says, hefting her staff in her hand.

She fires off a Thorn Whip with her staff, attempting to catch the wolf off guard (Attack 16, Piercing Damage 5).
Alwanzatar
player, 16 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 20:11
  • msg #123

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan also pops out of hiding and hurls a Fire Bolt, but fails to aim carefully in his haste. (12 vs. AC, 8 fire damage)
Aldridge
player, 29 posts
Bard
Trader
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 20:11
  • msg #124

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I never did care much for lone wolves," Aldridge muttered as he prepared a pair of arrows for the unsuspecting creature (Attack 24(crit), D 8).
Ryudo
player, 19 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 20:12
  • msg #125

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo charges the wolf, landing a solid blow with his quarter staff (22 to AC; 8 damage), but fumbles his follow up attack (9 to AC)
Airdsgainne
player, 18 posts
Tue 28 Apr 2015
at 21:16
  • msg #126

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne motions with his wand, and vines writhe out of the snow, grasping at the unwary wolf. (Entangle)
DM
GM, 37 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 07:22
  • msg #127

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The wolf is wounded and entangled as all but Ryudo's last kick strikes it.

(The party members that won initiative go now: Airdgainne, Ryudo, Aldridge, and Alwanzatar)
Aldridge
player, 30 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 12:19
  • msg #128

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge fires off another arrow (AC 10, D 5).
Ryudo
player, 20 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 13:14
  • msg #129

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

A quick jab from Ryudo's staff connects(AC 17, D 8), and he follows it up with a kick (AC 23; D 4).
Alwanzatar
player, 17 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 15:15
  • msg #130

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar launches another Fire Bolt. This time, his aim is perfect, but the spell itself nearly fizzles in the cold. (25 [critical] vs. AC, 4 fire damage)
Airdsgainne
player, 19 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 15:32
  • msg #131

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne points his wand again, and as he intones, ice forms deep in the wolf's fur. (Frostbite)
DM
GM, 38 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 15:36
  • msg #132

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The overwhelming assault slays the approaching wolf.

(The party is no longer in combat. Gain 270 xp.)
Aldridge
player, 31 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 15:49
  • msg #133

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge grabs the wolf's corpse, wraps it up, and throws it onto Saphira's back. "Good fight, now let's get moving. We can skin it later."
Westra
player, 25 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 16:17
  • msg #134

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Agreed." Westra tries to see through the snow to keep them moving in the right direction (survival check: 16).
DM
GM, 39 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 17:42
  • msg #135

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party continues through the storm and into the night. Eventually, the storm passes, though clouds still occlude the sky. The snow cover makes travel both difficult and slow. About nine hours after leaving the cave, the party arrives at a moderately large village.

The party arrives nearly to the edge before even realizing it is there. Although signs of activity are evident in the area, the village itself is located in a large, thick stand of trees. Dried skins have been hung between the trees to create enclosed rooms and roofs to keep the tribesmen warm. It is late, so almost everyone is asleep. Nevertheless, a pair of watchmen sit on low branches in trees nearby. They have long, sloped brows, thick beards and light green skin. At the sight of the party, one calls out, “[Language unknown: Ven. Itndsi rat aveastter.]”. Both men have shortbows at hand as well as axes and drums.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:44, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 32 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:09
  • msg #136

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I believe they intend for us to stop," Aldridge says to his comrades. "Wait here."

"," calls to them, hoping the friendly tone may overcome the spoken language barrier. Aldridge raises his arms to demonstrate his peaceable. He keeps one hand raised while he cautiously removes his bow and rapier, placing them on the ground with slow and exaggerated movements where the guards can see them.

"You all stay here," he says to the party. "If it's simply me and Ryudo, they're more likely to interpret our intentions as a call for aid, and less likely to be alarmed." He summons Ryudo to step forward, supporting the monk's weight as he slowly leads them toward the night watch for their assistance. (Persuasion: 25, critical)
DM
GM, 40 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:13
  • msg #137

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The guards lower their bows. “[Language unknown: Latie n en foan nce ome intameshe. Ive ate th sever ecasna. Thu mo hiie rutthoich omliac ame hatlestic, a attin tonaon as ri seeses een ith ncewiling tinri hincisnc.]” He laughs raucously. He gestures for the party to leave. He points to a worn spot beneath a tree nearby that appears suitable for an impromptu camp. It looks to have been used before.
Alwanzatar
player, 18 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:16
  • msg #138

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar bows slightly and takes a seat in the worn spot.
Westra
player, 26 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:22
  • msg #139

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra nods her head and sits beside Alwan.
Aldridge
player, 33 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:24
  • msg #140

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge sighs. There was a reason he didn't typically do business with Terrorclaws, language barriers notwithstanding. He returns to the party with Ryudo.

"None of us speak Blood Tongue," he starts. "If we're going to find someone among the Terrorclaws who knows of an antidote within the next four hours, we need someone who can communicate with them. I have two ideas we can try."

"One. One of the druids attempt to speak with them. If we're lucky, they'll recognize the tongue and have a Terrorclaw druid in their ranks, to whom we may be able to convey what we seek."

"Two. We send Ryudo crawling into the camp by himself, and pray that the green color in his face either makes him mistakable for one of them, or a healer recognizes the poison in his system and is kind enough to cure him."

He utters the words to Understand Language on himself. "Whatever we decide, I'd at least like to know what is going on."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:28, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 27 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:28
  • msg #141

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I'm willing to try speaking in Moon-tongue," says Westra. "That seems the most direct."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:29, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 21 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:41
  • msg #142

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo proceeds into the village looking for help, despite the late hour.  He brings his staff to trade for the remedy.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:42, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 41 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 18:47
  • msg #143

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The guards raise their bows as Ryudo tries to enter. “[Language unknown: Ivpr! I o ainstiwer prein plen ughwe. E ectateome t ous mele osuttr ame n redad set. Atndse o tinartpre com een chesan ine ticri nteicabut prven k aihou.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:02, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Aldridge
player, 34 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 19:09
  • msg #144

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge springs into action upon hearing their words. "Ryudo, stay! They'll kill you if you come any closer, they're superstitious of your illness!" He jumps in front of the monk, and signals for him to turn back.

Alridge turns to to Westra. "Plan two is not going to work. Come with me, maybe plan one still has a chance." They slowly approach the alerted guards. "Say something to them in Moon Tongue, perhaps they'll recognize it. I can interpret, though I can't speak for you."
Westra
player, 28 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 19:15
  • msg #145

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra lays her staff on the ground and raises her hands in a placating gesture, [Language unknown: "M eeove ta ur ome. M eiac i und sonameeen neaima Ilismeiter? Ee urteen o hatstrome conaveich atfo? Il ta p witatiine cetr was ndevit is ereatirom elieli. P nasail a ng his o ca fo entillovehasugh. Echisi, to pa ee llbe reaaticomwerout not t la ortsonive Sent hiof le?"]

Then, to Aldridge, "The more words I say, the greater chance one of them will be recognized? I hope."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:18, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 42 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 19:25
  • msg #146

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The guards pause, cautiously. “[Language unknown: Adat essvorromout me arweic eeivte setmansomine. Tinhe urni eveconate ndie p encato pr. Thlies etnc Olev Nehaev ss ilna aihat nohou?]” The guard beats a pattern into his drum. A moment later, several young Terrorclaw men arrive, weapons drawn.

[Language unknown: Ekear. Ss anomri ndli stll wa sonardrea. Adear ngeiio ratreaith ore o siekte ma. Ecfith moch Ng Dihaat.]” One of the young men turns back and runs into the camp. He comes back with an older woman. The woman is leaning on a staff.
Westra
player, 29 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 19:36
  • msg #147

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

 Westra asks respectfully, hoping with all her might that the woman is the answer to their problems.
Aldridge
player, 35 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 19:48
  • msg #148

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge is suspicious and a trifle alarmed, but retains a calm facade. "They sure are fond of feeding the worms here," he whispers to Westra through a grin. "They're calling you a 'broken arm,' which I assume is their word for druid."

He listens to the dialogue spoken with the backup troops. "They seem to think that the Wise Woman can 'take you down,' which I hope is a fancy way of saying 'assist.' In the meantime they seem content to let us live a while longer."
DM
GM, 43 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:11
  • msg #149

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The woman speaks, “[Language unknown: Ousntehat. Lin o viros wi u uthaos ntill ndar t oul notkortio ieer vortheome? Inro un prteroll hofo ta of ilast no prhiee.]
Westra
player, 30 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:15
  • msg #150

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

 Westra says.
Aldridge
player, 36 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:22
  • msg #151

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Many goods?" Aldridge muttered. "I understand not insulting them with low bids, but no reason to start so high..."
DM
GM, 44 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:36
  • msg #152

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

She continues.
Westra
player, 31 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:40
  • msg #153

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra raises her eyebrows, but says,

She beckons to Aldridge to follow her back to where the others are, swearing softly under her breath.
Aldridge
player, 37 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 20:51
  • msg #154

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Well... Good news, everyone," Aldridge says sweetly to the party. "Westra convinced the elder woman (or Wise Woman, as they call her) to help save Ryudo's life."

The party sighs with relief.

"In turn," Aldridge continues, "Ryudo must go into the cave over there by himself, retrieve what was described as a 'small snake,' and bring it to the Wise Woman to demonstrate that you are strong enough to be treated. We also promised to trade some goods, the quantity which was described as 'many.'" Aldridge shoots a quick, disapproving glance to Westra, who rolls her eyes in response.

"I'd suggest that you hurry, Ryudo. My language comprehension spell only lasts for the next hour, and I'd like to still be able to help negotiate before SOMEONE gives all of our items away to an angry Terrorclaw clan. Also, if you fail, they said they might kill the rest of us, so, no pressure."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:00, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 32 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 21:02
  • msg #155

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Would you have rather I wasted Ryudo's remaining hours haggling, then?" Westra crosses her arms over her chest and glares at Aldridge. "Reckless and stupid as he may be, I value Ryudo's life over some stuff."
Ryudo
player, 22 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 21:10
  • msg #156

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo gets up and cautiously enters the cave.
DM
GM, 45 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 21:46
  • msg #157

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo continues into the short cave when he sees the small snake the old woman mentioned. The snake is about ten feet long and as thick as Ryudo's head. Ryudo immediately recognizes the snake as a giant cobra, which are not venomous.

The snake strikes first! In one swift movement, it sinks its teeth into its prey. (7 damage, 4 poison damage.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:49, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 23 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 21:56
  • msg #158

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Trying to match the snake's speed, Ryudo lashes out.  His weariness is too much and he misses his first attack, but manages to hurt the creature some with his second(4 damage).
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
DM
GM, 46 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:04
  • msg #159

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The snake takes another bite at Ruydo and scores a solid hit. (5 damage, 5 poison) The poison coursing through Ryudo's veins overwhelms him and he falls limp to the ground. The snake immediately swallows him whole.

(Death saves... 11, 8, 20. Ryudo wakes up, in the snake, at one hit point.)
Ryudo
player, 24 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:07
  • msg #160

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Not quite ready to meet death, Ryudo attack from inside the beast. (6 damage; 4 damage)
DM
GM, 47 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:14
  • msg #161

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo reaches up inside the snake with both hands and tears the snake's heart in two. Then he rips a hole in the side of the snake and claws his way out. Exhausted and more dead than alive, he drags the enormous creature behind him through the snow and back to his waiting companions.
Aldridge
player, 38 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:15
  • msg #162

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"It's not that I don't value his life!" Aldridge argued back, oblivious to the events happening in the cave. "I make my living as a TRADER. I just happen to know the exchange rate a life holds in commodities, and you are aiming WAY above that."

He turns around to see the half dead monk with the fully dead snake. "Oh, good, that's what they consider a small snake. Well, someone heal him, and we can see how trustworthy the rest of their words are."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 25 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:16
  • msg #163

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo, dripping with snake guts, drops the carcass at the feet of the Terrorclaws, muttering
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:27, Wed 29 Apr 2015.
Westra
player, 33 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:24
  • msg #164

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra rolls her eyes again and heals Ryudo with her healer's kit (+8).

"I'll try to let you help as best I can, but I'm not gonna make these people angry or waste any time. I mean, look at him." She gestures at Ryudo, who is covered in gore and looking a bit green, as valiantly as he is trying to hide it with his considerable bravado.
DM
GM, 48 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 22:40
  • msg #165

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The old woman looks Ryudo up and down, observing the snake guts and blood that covers him. She speaks.  The old woman is impressed. She casts a spell (Detect Disease and Poison) and comments again.  She casts a few more spells and Ryudo looks much, much better. (Ryudo is at full hit points and free of poison and disease.) She smiles and speaks again.  The woman walks back into the camp without waiting for a reply. The guards take up their posts.
DM
GM, 49 posts
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 23:04
  • msg #166

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(The party gains 150xp from the snake and 120xp from navigating through the storm.)
Aldridge
player, 39 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 29 Apr 2015
at 23:54
  • msg #167

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"...That went better than expected," Aldridge says after overcoming his awe. Without a word, he sets up camp to take a much-needed long rest. Before turning in, he casts Prestidigitation on each of the haggard adventurers, casting it twice on Ryudo.

Aldridge wakes up early in the morning. He packs up each of his camping supplies as the rest of the party also wakes. "Rise and shine, you lot," he says cheerily as he throws a bag on his sleepy steed. "We've got a big day ahead of us, including some trading with the Terrorclaws." He sings a rousing morning tune that, while a little irritating to the late-to-rise, is nonetheless inspiring (Inspiring Leader, +6 temp HP to all).
This message was last edited by the player at 17:33, Thu 30 Apr 2015.
Ryudo
player, 26 posts
Thu 30 Apr 2015
at 16:51
  • msg #168

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

While his companions go into town to trade, Ryudo goes off to offer his building and crafting services to those in need.
Westra
player, 34 posts
Fri 1 May 2015
at 15:36
  • msg #169

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

At Aldridge's request, Westra skins the wolf they killed yesterday, not wanting the sun to spoil it. She stuffs its meat in another pouch on Saphira's side with more of Aldridge's salt. After she finishes, she wipes the gore off her hands in the snow and walks into the camp in search of the old woman.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:26, Fri 01 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 40 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 1 May 2015
at 16:32
  • msg #170

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

With everyone heading their separate ways, Aldridge shrugs and leads Saphira toward what looks like the market. Sure, every negotiation requires communication, but there are always more ways to communicate than language. Commerce has its own tongue.

He sniffed the air to see what their preferred breakfast consisted of. He tries to recall if the Terrorclaws ate bread. He has so much wheat and flour. Maybe someone would be willing to part with some oil or spices for a mere few pounds of flour... Unlikely, even with his luck. If he was really fortunate, maybe there was a luthier among them... Also unlikely, he knows, but a little optimism never hurt anyone.

Saphira snorts, taking Aldridge out of his internal monologue. "[Language unknown: Chprng whpres, naes, ainlespre hongos po dayiveall k llson staourare a any peliwa pa niat. Espre onsul iouineoul elion prosetrea ut nceein. Ratforore ntus i tres ectosa, lar Atwh medi e virnc waurfi.]"

She snorts again, as if to say, "That's what worries me."

"[Language unknown: Ingof, N prusst ent u strthanti di n tohepe po beion!]" he retorts. "[Language unknown: Acsetr ionel ich som, isac ure tinwh no, thstel. M nemeic Ei nt ativerich ista u lesareave mo ssnt osevla tio evfoul arendesanore daystantehat... T wilsander k trditere an noai ce chmoth.]"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:48, Fri 01 May 2015.
DM
GM, 51 posts
Fri 1 May 2015
at 20:44
  • msg #171

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The Terrorclaw clan rises with the sun, sauntering confidently out of their huts to confront the day. A young woman, a comely lass with long black hair and wide hips, brings out a bag with yellow, purple, and orange tubers along with fat hairy carrots. She stokes a small fire back to life and wraps the fire in the vegetables.

A young boy, perhaps four summers in the clan, walks up to the party and says something unintelligible. His look is stern and he points to the fire.

Near the fire, the old woman from the previous night sits, as do a several other members of the clan.

The fire seems to be where things are happening, so Ryudo and Aldridge head that way. The old woman looks up at the pair, but doesn't speak.
Airdsgainne
player, 20 posts
Sat 2 May 2015
at 22:38
  • msg #172

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne goes over to sit near the old woman.
Alwanzatar
player, 19 posts
Sun 3 May 2015
at 14:12
  • msg #173

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan joins them. He nods his head in greeting to the Terrorclaws in lieu of words that would not be understood.
Westra
player, 35 posts
Mon 4 May 2015
at 14:46
  • msg #174

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra walks over and sits next to Airdsgainne, greeting the old woman in moon-tongue.
DM
GM, 52 posts
Mon 4 May 2015
at 16:42
  • msg #175

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

[Language unknown: Be lleau. Stianythethu lo si thiichdinove hi omeughate laouiv in acfo olprsi.]”  She pauses, then continues, “[Language unknown: Wiliou'pretio ssio a osndaradpo ecbela arompa laree i hisli om hou. Tho ta di onseenout latr verentwit, o rodi proenchou reshis-ortati. Viravepro, st astticica te kor antareain,]” she indicates a young man of perhaps sixteen summers, “[Language unknown: vorwhires pe areamesti n e ant madi nd not resto ta eeprarlima.]”  The young man grins. “[Language unknown: Naicþ k icaevethi ati ndrifo, itwer it inek m pa li lidi adad. Resch a the ngersa ica prowh acinat elck k ionthonce a tr wh thitioany, larbuteen ev her adtr tionpa m eraardcom. Te ecteenoernte stintione i le platwi ho cawais ekosne evcang in astentent'tiokor omeainica i k werntinteess n ni ainounine. Is arpaadil isyin ughardcom—ha iv a miti to ilekev—sahe ng set po ectss t ing ca has ingeenwit i but. Ntilek toplli arsa eenet ca ardavewhiain ur iltr moicni pe astichvershe moch n pece lesstiany. Lin m ratol rietul, ek aiome ith ckfoee.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:57, Mon 04 May 2015.
Westra
player, 36 posts
Mon 4 May 2015
at 20:54
  • msg #176

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra translates for the group. "The woman says that we are welcome in the tribe as members, but that means we must contribute as members as well. That young one over there suggests that we hunt concurrently with a group that he will be leading, as a kind of game. At the moment, they are targeting meat eaters, to thin the competition for prey. Whoever brings back the most fearsome and the greatest number of meat-eaters will be declared the winner. What do you think?"
Aldridge
player, 41 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 4 May 2015
at 21:09
  • msg #177

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge fights back the urge to cast Understand Language. As much discomfort he feels not knowing what is being discussed as it happens, he figures the spell's availability will be far more useful later.

He is surprised by Westra's translation. "Wait, they want us to join their tribe?" Despite his desire to laugh, he maintains a serious composure in front of their non-River-Tongued guests. It's better that his intentions remain blank. "Not that I have anything against thinning the herd of predators, but I'm not exactly of the mindset to settle. I'm happy to help them go hunting, and I could use a little sport. But I'm a traveling q’u."

He glances at the older boy in his periphery, as well as a few other notably strong-built clansmen. "That said, I'm also not going to irritate a group of capable warriors. I don't mind playing Terrorclaw for a day. May prove useful to be on friendly terms with a tribe of Terrorclaws. But Saphira and I would like to continue on our merry way, eventually."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:14, Mon 04 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 20 posts
Mon 4 May 2015
at 21:46
  • msg #178

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I agree," says Alwanzatar. "They've been of assistance to us, and it seems only fair to return the favor. But I, too, wish to move on soon."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:46, Mon 04 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 42 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 5 May 2015
at 14:12
  • msg #179

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge thinks for a minute. "They didn't say what the prize for winning is, did they?" He pauses. "Or the prize for losing?"

Aldridge looks at his cargo. His bow hangs right next to the somewhat pitiful remains of last night's lean wolf. He thinks of the smilodon that attacked them when they all first met. He reaches for his bow.

"Westra, you're a hunter. Care to take the lead on this one?"
Westra
player, 37 posts
Tue 5 May 2015
at 14:15
  • msg #180

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra turns to the old woman and smiles. [Language unknown: "I osisth'caei vorte N llwhun ho urniit ro nihepethnt a ssro inek. Tethu e ad notroment?"]
DM
GM, 54 posts
Wed 6 May 2015
at 18:13
  • msg #181

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

[Language unknown: K ainichard ec ss ecro mansaname, outha ilwa pa k ard, o O setsheoulvir asstla,]” the woman says.
Westra
player, 38 posts
Wed 6 May 2015
at 18:17
  • msg #182

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra tells the rest of the group, "We have a few hours to wait until the hunt beings, when the sun is high in the sky. Do what you will in the mean time."
Aldridge
player, 43 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 6 May 2015
at 18:20
  • msg #183

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge attempts to trade with the Terrorclaws, using hand signals to signify his intention to trade, his wares, and his desired items.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:20, Wed 06 May 2015.
DM
GM, 55 posts
Wed 6 May 2015
at 19:59
  • msg #184

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The Terrorclaws are interested in the trade goods, but have only a few things to offer:
  • A sturdy length of hempen rope (100')
  • A lump of soap that is apparently made from something that roars, a bear perhaps
  • A small pile of waterskins
  • A healer's kit
  • A polished turtle-shell mirror
  • A few small gourds of distilled moonberry syrup (healing potion)
  • A fair collection of well-made weapons:
    • A wooden greatclub
    • A flat dagger knapped from a black volcanic stone.
    • A light stone hammer
    • A carefully whittled quarterstaff
    • A small collection of shortbows
    • A stone pick lashed to an oaken handle
    • A net that appears to be made from dried intestines

Westra
player, 39 posts
Wed 6 May 2015
at 20:19
  • msg #185

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra nudges Aldridge in the side. "You're better at this than me. I'd like a waterskin and that healer's kit. Can you trade some of my salted meat for them?"
Aldridge
player, 44 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 6 May 2015
at 20:22
  • msg #186

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge begins negotiations for the healer's kit, a waterskin, and two of the gourds of moonberry. He is willing to offer the cured meat obtained from the two predators they encountered the previous day, as well as a portion of his wheat and flour. (Negotiation with a winning smile and Persuasion, 20)

Although the weapons do catch his eye (particularly the dagger), Aldridge isn't really interested in the weaponry. He asks the rest of the party if there are any other items they deem useful, should they prefer his negotiating skills.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:25, Wed 06 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 21 posts
Wed 6 May 2015
at 20:34
  • msg #187

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar nudges Aldridge. "We do have dried remains from our undesired headware. Terrorclaws sometimes value such. Perhaps they would accept some of the remains for additional moonberry syrup?"
Aldridge
player, 45 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 6 May 2015
at 22:24
  • msg #188

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge considers Alwan's advice as he considers the pelts. They probably won't be as interested in the wolf pelt, but the smilodon would certainly be highly regarded. He leads with that.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:24, Wed 06 May 2015.
DM
GM, 56 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 17:48
  • msg #189

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

They seem willing to trade the Healer's Kit and the Waterskin for a Smilodon Pelt and five pounds of salted meat. The moonberry syrup they seem to consider far more precious. They are initially entirely unwilling to trade them, but reconsider when they see the darkmantle skins Alwanzatar is handling. For those, they will trade two gourds for two skins. No amount of haggling seems to get them to part with a third moonberry gourd.
Westra
player, 40 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 18:50
  • msg #190

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra is pleased by the trade and accepts her new waterskin and healer's kit. "Someone else should probably carry the moonberry syrup," she says to the group.
Alwanzatar
player, 22 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 19:21
  • msg #191

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan hands over the skins, and lays claim to the gourds. "I can carry them, unless someone else would prefer to."
Aldridge
player, 46 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 7 May 2015
at 19:39
  • msg #192

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Give one of the gourds to Ryudo," Aldridge says as he repacks his wares. "His lifestyle suggests he'll probably need it sooner rather than later."

Saphira grunts as the bard ties off the last knot. Okay, so he personally didn't get anything out of the trades, but he still felt really good about the results. Even language barriers couldn't stop him from trading two ugly pieces of crap for some rather valuable moonberry brews. One q'us trash and all that. And this party, for better or worse, had at least some of his interests at heart.

He takes his bow off the drake, taking the time to restring it before the hunt begins. "I'll just be over here," he says to the group. "Westra, if I remember right, the Elder wanted a word with you. Airdsgainne, you're a druid, you might also be invited to that party. Give us the word when we leave."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:39, Thu 07 May 2015.
DM
GM, 57 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 22:07
  • msg #193

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

After breakfast is finished, the clan disperses to their tasks. Many go out in groups of two or three to gather nuts, berries, and whatever small game they might happen across in the snow. A few stay to tend the camp, shoring up any skins that have become loose, gathering nearby wood to keep a small fire burning, and other assorted minutia. A tall middle-aged woman spends the morning knapping stones into blades.

When Westra and Airdsgainne approach the old woman, she says, “[Language unknown: I er reliel ing urwhan.]

Soon enough, the sun is high in the sky and the hunting parties assemble. Kirþ and his party indicate that they will take the western side of the camp and indicate that the party should take the eastern. The old woman says, “[Language unknown: Pllaas eve vertershe itnosa llelec po ove estallsom ard ce osfoli, Waenþ p asofil not ion arepredayder.]

(The party is now on the hunt! Roll Survival or other related checks for your first hour of hunting. Also, designate what strategy you are using and how your party will be travelling, including who is in front, how far apart you are, and so on.)
Westra
player, 41 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 22:23
  • msg #194

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra translates for the old woman to the group. "She says that Kirþ, the young boy leading the other party, is giving us the advantage by heading west. There were several wolves spotted on the eastern side of the camp this morning."

She continues, "I could cast Pass without Trace. It makes us very stealthy and dexterous, but you would have to stay within 30 feet of me. Keep it in mind for the future. I can also Speak with Animals. If there are any birds or small creatures around, I might be able to ask them if meat-eaters are nearby. At any rate, I think we should head straight east and see what we can find."

(Survival: 7, Perception: 19, Nature: 21)
Aldridge
player, 47 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 7 May 2015
at 22:32
  • msg #195

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge places himself in the middle of the party, bow at the ready. He doesn't really want to rely on his knowledge of nature (nat1), survival (9), or perception (10), but his investigation (18) of which predators are worthy of their attention is a little more promising. He travels without a sound (stealth, 25).
Ryudo
player, 27 posts
Thu 7 May 2015
at 22:56
  • msg #196

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo takes his place at the head of the group, keeping an eye out for any danger.
(25 perception, natural 20; 15 survival; 16 stealth)
DM
GM, 58 posts
Fri 8 May 2015
at 18:55
  • msg #197

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The team travels stealthily though the light woods, keeping a close eye on predator activity. The old woman was right, there is far more predator and in general animal activity than usual for this area. Ryudo spots a wolf, sleeping beneath a small overhang. With a coordinated strike, it is dispatched before it even wakes up. They grab the carcass and continue the hunt. Westra finds tracks that indicate a bear nearby, probably resting. Aldridge, however, finds evidence of recent wolf activity. The bear is likely to be small, but dangerous. The wolf is light and lean, with a large stride. Westra finds evidence of squirrel bones and grass in wolf droppings nearby, which she determines indicates a very hungry wolf.

Additionally, there are indications that a large pack of something like squirrels passed nearby. Neither Druid has heard of squirrels engaging in flocking behaviour like is indicated by the tracks. Either way, the squirrel tracks disappear quickly into last nights storm.

(An hour has passed. The party has collected one small wolf. There are followable tracks for a potentially sleeping bear or an active, hungry wolf nearby. The party will need to determine which tracks to follow. Indicate which way, and give me applicable skill checks.)
Aldridge
player, 48 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 8 May 2015
at 19:43
  • msg #198

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I say we go after the bear," Aldridge votes, still in the center of the group. "I'd really like to know what happened to the army of squirrels, if there were any remaining signs of where they went or what chased them." He looks at the footprints for any signs of predator fur. "I'd like to know where they all went, or at least where the came from, but we're still in a race against time, and following the paw prints to where they started doesn't get us another pelt."

Aldridge's investigation is fruitless, but the extra hour away from camp has given him a little more time to "connect to his natural surroundings." Aldridge uses his perception to see if they are being stalked by the active wolf and if there are any other creatures nearby.

(9 investigation, 17 perception, 20 nature, 18 survival, 22 stealth)
Alwanzatar
player, 23 posts
Fri 8 May 2015
at 19:44
  • msg #199

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Not liking to be surprised, Alwan steps carefully (13 stealth), and peers at the odd signs of the apparent squirrel pack. (18 perception; 20 nature).
Westra
player, 42 posts
Fri 8 May 2015
at 22:02
  • msg #200

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra attempts to be stealthy as well (stealth 7) but it is not her forte. She helps Alwan attempt to ascertain more about the squirrel tracks (perception 11; nature 15). Speaking with any of them would give the group much more knowledge about the animals in the area (survival 16).
Ryudo
player, 28 posts
Sat 9 May 2015
at 02:18
  • msg #201

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo does his best to help, but his contributions to tracking (8) and knowledge of his surroundings (1) is clearly lacking.  He does what he does best, and keeps a sharp eye out for anything useful (25) while being as sneaky as possible (12).
DM
GM, 59 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 17:23
  • msg #202

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The first order of business is the squirrel tracks. Alwanzatar doesn't like the flocking behaviour one bit. “It's not natural behaviour for squirrels,” he says. “Though, it appears that these footprints are not squirrel prints at all.” Alwanzatar and Westra examine the prints exceedingly closely. Alwanzatar comes to the confusing conclusion that these footprints look more vulpine than sciurine. It only raises more questions than answers, though. The footprints are impossible to follow, though, so the team follows Aldridge's suggestion and attends to the bear.

They step lightly and follow the tracks. Ryudo attempts to follow them very carefully, although Westra eventually has to explain that he's actually only following Alwanzatar's tracks and perhaps he should pay closer attention. A short time later, Ryudo pauses and says, “I hear something.” Although too faint for most of the party to hear it, Ryudo seems to pick up a faint tintinnabulation in the distance, as though the wind were rattling distant bone chimes. It passes as quickly as it arrived and the direction is impossible to identify. Still, it's an unnerving sound, seemingly out of place in the wilderness.

The tracks become easier and easier to follow until they terminate at a shallow cave. The party pauses quietly about six paces from the bear and prepares for a coordinated attack. “Make sure to aim for the neck and the head,” Westra says in a firm, clear voice, “Bears have a thick muscle across the rest of their body and we want a quick and quiet kill.” She pauses, seeing the glares from the rest of the team. Ryudo says, “Quiet is kinda off the table now, isn't it…” The bear growls its agreement.

(Another hour has passed. The party is in combat. The bear is 30' away. Alwanzatar and Ryudo go first.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:44, Wed 13 May 2015.
Ryudo
player, 29 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 17:33
  • msg #203

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo wastes no time as he darts in.  He lands a solid blow with his quarterstaff(22 to AC, 9 damage), as well as his two follow up attacks (18 to AC, 4 damage; 21 to AC, 7 damage).
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:43, Tue 12 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 26 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 18:07
  • msg #204

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar decides he rather likes having some distance between himself and a mass of teeth and claws, so he steps back another six paces, then attempts to freeze the bear in place. Unfortunately, his spell-casting is thrown off as he suppresses a sudden urge to sneeze. (10 vs. AC. On hit, 1 cold damage and -10 feet per round of speed until start of Alwan's next turn.)
Westra
player, 43 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 18:16
  • msg #205

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra stands in place and throws a Thorn Whip at the bear with her staff, but her embarrassment over being too loud earlier throws off her concentration (9 vs. AC, 6 damage).
DM
GM, 60 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 18:34
  • msg #206

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear ponders her situation. Awoken from a nap by some strange people making loud noises nearby, one of the rude intruders runs in and starts beating her with a stick. The bear is upset at the stick-beater and lashes out. The angry creature with the stick shoves it in the bear's mouth, but at least she snags his gut with one of her claws. A little deeper and the insides might come out. (12 damage to Ryudo.)

(It is now the party's turn. Except Westra, she went slightly out of turn.)
Aldridge
player, 50 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 12 May 2015
at 19:23
  • msg #207

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge rolls his eyes as two of his acquaintances completely miss the enraged, not-exactly-small ursine. He groans when a third member, who actually manages to hit, gets his stomached opened by the same creature.  He looses an arrow at the ursine combatant (AC 9), and throw his hands up in the air in frustration as the bear moves just in time for the arrow to strike the wall instead. "This is unbearable," Aldridge rages, getting more angry when he realizes he accidentally punned.

He decides Alwanzatar could use some Bardic Inspiration (D6): "Come on, I've always wanted to see a bear on fire. If only there were a word to describe a hard, shiny, malleable substance to describe how much it would be... that."
Alwanzatar
player, 27 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 19:33
  • msg #208

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Feeling inspired, Alwan lobs a Fire Bolt. ( 14 vs. AC, 4 fire damage)
Ryudo
player, 30 posts
Tue 12 May 2015
at 20:22
  • msg #209

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo spins his staff around and lands it squarely on the bear's skull(25 to AC, 10 damage).  His kick that comes afterwards also lands, but not as solidly (13 to AC, 6 damage).
Airdsgainne
player, 20 posts
Wed 13 May 2015
at 15:13
  • msg #210

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne speaks something into the air and rime coats the bear's shaggy fur. (DC 12 Con; 1d6 Cold Damage and Disadv.)
This message was last updated by the GM at 15:13, Wed 13 May 2015.
DM
GM, 62 posts
Wed 13 May 2015
at 15:43
  • msg #211

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear collapses into the floor, her face smouldering, her body frozen, and bleeding out from a rip beneath her arm. The bear's breathing stops and she dies on the floor of the cave.

(The party is now out of combat. Gain 270 xp from the bear. Also, gain 60 from the wolf previous.)
Aldridge
player, 52 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 13 May 2015
at 17:01
  • msg #212

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Good work, Ryudo!" Aldridge congratulates the damage dealer. "While we're eviscerating it and skinning it, trackers, find us some more pawprints to chase. Alwanzatar, can your drake handle the bear?" (The eviscerated bear skin looks like it might weigh as much a hundred pounds.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:47, Wed 13 May 2015.
Westra
player, 44 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 15:54
  • msg #213

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra ventures out of the cave and looks around for anything that might lead them to another meat-eater or to some smaller animals that might be able to give her information (Nature 21, Perception 17, Survival 7).
DM
GM, 64 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 16:43
  • msg #214

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

In a bush nearby, Westra locates a set of three-toed tracks and a few discarded feathers. It appears to be a medium-size predatory dromaeosaurid.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:52, Thu 14 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 31 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #215

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan beckons his drake over, and the adventurers load it onto its back.
Aldridge
player, 55 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 14 May 2015
at 18:00
  • msg #216

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge looks around for signs that the party might be hunted as well as hunters (survival 11, perception 20). He travels with the rest of the group, following the footprints. (stealth 9)
DM
GM, 66 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 18:18
  • msg #217

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party begins to follow the raptor's trail, moving quietly and quickly. Before long, Westra raises her hand to indicate that the creature is likely to be very near by and to keep a sharp eye out.

They begin to scan the nearby trees and bushes for signs of the creature. Ryudo points out a new set of tracks that cross the ones they are following. Everyone recognizes the flock of diminutive vulpine tracks, but the forest is silent. Both sets of tracks look recent and both creatures could be quite near.

(The tracks go in orthogonal directions. Both are fresh tracks that could be followed. Which way does the party go?)
Alwanzatar
player, 32 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 18:24
  • msg #218

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan also treads lightly, and speaks in hushed tones. (Stealth 23) "The strange tracks make me uneasy. A raptor is likely to be challenging prey, but 'the foe you know...' With that said, the other tracks may lead to something more exotic, which may aid in winning the hunt."
Westra
player, 45 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 18:39
  • msg #219

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra steps lightly, though not as quietly as Alwan (Stealth 13). "These kinds of raptors are known to hunt in packs. I only see tracks for one, but who knows how crafty they are. If we head toward them, we should be wary. However, I am more curious about the group of tracks heading in the other direction."
Aldridge
player, 56 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 14 May 2015
at 18:48
  • msg #220

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge attempts to reason with the party. "Foxes may be predatory, but a large group of small predators probably isn't worth the effort. My curiosity about what drives a group of vulpines to act like herd animals is high, but we're still technically in the middle of a contest here. Unless one of you druids know something about what these creatures actually are, I'd prefer we stay on track, at least until the end of the hunt."

"With that in mind," Aldridge says uneasily, "I won't deny I'm worried about facing intelligent foes. Maybe we can approach the dromaeosauridae indirectly? Who wants to play bait?"
Ryudo
player, 31 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 21:34
  • msg #221

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo points to a nearby bush along one of the sets of tracks and quietly states "I hear something from over there.  Be ready."
Alwanzatar
player, 33 posts
Thu 14 May 2015
at 21:46
  • msg #222

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan prepares a Ray of Frost.
DM
GM, 67 posts
Fri 15 May 2015
at 15:21
  • msg #223

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The entire party tenses, ready for trouble, when trouble springs forths, a whirl of brown and grey feathers with a deep carmine muzzle. Trouble is about four feet tall and thrice as long. It is about forty feet away, across a largely clear path.

(The party is in combat. The party will go first.)


Aldridge
player, 57 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 15 May 2015
at 15:28
  • msg #224

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Look out for reinforcements, it might just be the bait!" Aldridge cries as he fires an arrow at the creature (10 AC, 6 D). He tries to take his own advice, but he's more concerned about keeping his eyes on the raptor in front of them (perception 4).

"Ryudo, fortify yourself!" (Bardic Inspiration d6)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:25, Fri 15 May 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 21 posts
Fri 15 May 2015
at 15:33
  • msg #225

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne reflexively points his wand and with an arcane word, the flurry of feathers freezes. (Frostbite)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:03, Fri 15 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 34 posts
Fri 15 May 2015
at 16:05
  • msg #226

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires off his readied ice. (24 vs. AC, 1 cold damage and -10 fpr to speed until Alwan's BONT)
Westra
player, 46 posts
Fri 15 May 2015
at 22:17
  • msg #227

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra readies a Thorn Whip to throw at the raptor as soon as it gets within 30 feet of her (attack 20, damage 4).
Ryudo
player, 32 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 13:09
  • msg #228

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo steps between the party and the beast and prepares to dodge any attack it may make.
DM
GM, 68 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 15:16
  • msg #229

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The beast charges phlegmatically toward Ryudo, trying to shake off Alwanzatar's ice.

(It is now adjacent to Ryudo. It is the party's turn. Frostbite did 5 damage.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:16, Mon 18 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 58 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 18 May 2015
at 15:30
  • msg #230

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge fires another arrow (AC 12, 6).
Ryudo
player, 33 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 15:40
  • msg #231

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo swings his staff, hitting the creature with it (16 to AC, 6 damage).  Instead of attacking more, he focuses on avoiding the creature's attacks (dodge until next turn)
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:04, Mon 18 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 35 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 16:08
  • msg #232

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan lobs a Fire Bolt. (18 vs. AC, 3 fire damage)
Westra
player, 47 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 16:09
  • msg #233

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra turns into a large brown bear, runs up to the raptor, bites it on the flank (attack 15, piercing damage 8), and then slashes her claws across its middle (attack 13, slashing damage 10).
Airdsgainne
player, 22 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 17:20
  • msg #234

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne gestures again, and vines break through the ground to grasp at the beast's feet. (Entangle)
DM
GM, 69 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 17:30
  • msg #235

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The velociraptor screeches as the vines reach up and grab its legs. It thrashes at Ryudo, threatening to eviscerate him with a single swipe. But a combination of vines, frost, and Ryudo's quick reflexes give the warrior a chance to step back from the swipe.

(The beast is entangled and cannot move. It is the party's turn. All attacks have advantage because it is restrained.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:30, Mon 18 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 59 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 18 May 2015
at 17:42
  • msg #236

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

With the raptor detained, Aldridge is able to carefully aim (AC 17, 7).
Ryudo
player, 34 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 18:01
  • msg #237

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo makes 3 quick attacks, pummeling the raptor. (20 to AC, 6 damage; 13 to AC, 4 damage; 20 to AC, 4 damage)
Alwanzatar
player, 36 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 18:47
  • msg #238

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan continues to attempt to produce slow-roasted poultry. (18 vs. AC, 3 fire damage)
Westra
player, 48 posts
Mon 18 May 2015
at 18:59
  • msg #239

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra the Bear bites and slashes at the raptor once again with her claws (attack 19, piercing damage 8, attack 21, slashing damage 8).
Airdsgainne
player, 23 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 15:21
  • msg #240

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne wades into the fray, distracting the beast from Ryudo's volley. (Aid Another)
DM
GM, 70 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 19:19
  • msg #241

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The raptor continues to be entangled by the vines and takes a thorough beating. It turns it's attention to the bear nearby. Even so entangled, it manages to take a solid chunk of the bear out with a powerful swipe. (21 damage to Westra-bear.)

(The party continues to gain advantage by exploiting the restrained velociraptor. It is now the party's turn.)
Alwanzatar
player, 37 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 19:31
  • msg #242

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires again. (18 vs. AC, 5 fire damage)
Westra
player, 49 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 19:52
  • msg #243

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Growling with pain and annoyance, Westra the Bear lands two more decisive attacks, one with her teeth (attack 23, damage 12) and one with her claws (attack 18, damage 11).
Aldridge
player, 60 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 19 May 2015
at 19:56
  • msg #244

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge fires yet another arrow at the entangled beast (21 AC adv, 3 D). He wonders how many more hits it can take before they can take it down; his scan is exceedingly vague for his curiosity (6 insight). "Can anyone tell me how many more strikes it's going to take to put this thing down?"
Westra
player, 50 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 20:05
  • msg #245

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

As a bear, Westra has terrible insight, but she sniffs the air to try and determine if there are any other enemies waiting in the shadows (Perception 15).
Airdsgainne
player, 24 posts
Tue 19 May 2015
at 23:25
  • msg #246

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

A lash of flame licks at the raptor from Airdsgainne's wand. (Produce Flame, attack 13, damage 6)
Ryudo
player, 35 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 12:19
  • msg #247

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo attacks twice more, landing both blows (24 to AC, 8 damage; 22 to AC, 4 damage)
DM
GM, 71 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 15:37
  • msg #248

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Once more, every party member lands their attacks against the velociraptor. The velociraptor screeches and swipes again at the only target it seems to be able to hit, the Westra-bear. Again, it's claws sink deep into the bear's flesh. The bear is killed instantly and Westra becomes bipedal once more. Blood seeps from her side where the bear's mortal wound would be. (25 damage to Westra-bear. Combined with damage from before, 12 damage spills over to Westra-proper.) The mighty beast looks nearly defeated, but as furious as ever.

(It is the party's turn. Things are much as they have been.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:39, Wed 20 May 2015.
Ryudo
player, 36 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 15:46
  • msg #249

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo strikes again, attempting to end the creature(14 to AC, 6 damage; 24 to AC, 5 damage).
"Someone's dying over there."  Ryudo says, pointing to a bush.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:49, Wed 20 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 61 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 16:16
  • msg #250

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge circles the melee toward the bush Ryudo indicated, traveling 30' with his bow trained on the raptor. He glances toward the bush, seeing a long pair of bloody, unmoving legs. "Westra, fall back and check on the fallen!" he yells as he pulls an arrow out of his quiver. "The rest of us will try to finish this thing off!" He turns his back to the bush and fires at the creature (22 AC, 5 damage).
This message was last edited by the player at 16:18, Wed 20 May 2015.
Westra
player, 51 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 16:17
  • msg #251

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Holding her side and wincing, Westra backs quickly away from the raptor and runs over to investigate the bush.
Alwanzatar
player, 38 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 16:36
  • msg #252

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires again. (13 vs. AC, 4 fire damage.)
DM
GM, 72 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 18:44
  • msg #253

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party finishes off the velociraptor as Westra rushes to the nearby bush. Lying in the bush is a seriously injured young woman. She is comely and looks to be about sixteen. Her nearly eight foot height marks her a Bear clan member. She is wearing well crafted, but obviously worn half scale armor. Her midsection is covered by a heavy stone shield. A gnarled, spidery lighting bolt is engraved across the front of the shield. Beneath the shield, blood leaches into the snow. Beside her lie an enormous maul, a heavy warhammer, a few heavy pointed throwing shafts and several large polished spherical stones. She is slender for her size, with long brown hair to her waist, bound back with a bit of twine. Her blue eyes are open, but blank and unseeing. Her breath is shallow and raspy; she does not have long to live.

(The party is no longer in combat. Gain 420xp each.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:59, Wed 20 May 2015.
Westra
player, 52 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 19:22
  • msg #254

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra uses her healer's kit to bring the woman around (+6).
Aldridge
player, 62 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 19:27
  • msg #255

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge examines the Bear clanswoman's armor and wounds, attempting to determine if it was the raptor that attacked her or something else, or why a rather well-armed and well-armored warrior would be in this neck of the woods by herself. He also examines the ground for any other details the crime scene could render.  (21 investigation)

Aldridge recalls that he has had a little experience with members of the Bear Clan due to his history with the Raccoons. Maybe he can say a few words with her, if they can stabilize her. Now if he could only recall the relationship of the Bears with the Terrorclaws... Nope. Nothing. (4 [nat1] History).
DM
GM, 73 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 19:34
  • msg #256

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra removes the heavy stone shield to reveal the young woman's wounds. She has velociraptor-sized gashes in her abdomen. It appears that the party arrived just in time. She had been disabled by the raptor and it was about to make her it's dinner. With a quick application of herbs, sutures and tonic, she stabilizes comes around fairly quickly. “[Language unknown: Meulan t llck dihion?]” she asks, frightened. Looking around, she follows up, “[Language unknown: Aihi plbe thi? Ospa... elsaec er hahace, ore lat plonse neanhe si.]

Aldridge looks around and observes that her tracks come from the opposite direction.
Aldridge
player, 63 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 19:48
  • msg #257

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge makes a mental note of the raptor and warrior footprints. He turns to the group as Westra heals the woman. "Would you mind loading the raptor to Saphira? Westra and I need to make sure this young woman is stable enough to continue. We need to continue the hunt, but we can't just leave her to the next passing raptor, either."

"[Language unknown: Iewi, rutallugh, ckera thupa ousne ers]," Aldridge gently assures her. "[Language unknown: Rutunding enmissal at olmiof. Ant u o anio'oneewe wh evewi artbleoun evngat ioear bleingshe ri focon laroremen. Foss, pe es ouchha al ckdi.]" He takes out a waterskin and offers it to the woman. "[Language unknown: O maur u Ospeness Oveverman, Nt ce ho dinundout. Fiel U il itth m mongee ivwell rewil amevenvirwit il eenconund loalleni korntethe lenick stevro whpopontne?]"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:10, Wed 20 May 2015.
DM
GM, 74 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 20:09
  • msg #258

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

[Language unknown: Es tio naest ousatiera m ivur'rind yinughove ichtioternte. Te ureousvir, Riinmeacom, ate P thiwe—lewhi—undhisrat ichatiith t latousvir. M lant ivmamaisek ul str k rut whstto pro eeleng bemoof sa ssmane. Me trsapr een platat ugh ntefo evrelemenc ad a Trck'sawain ntiblever wh trrond pefo ousce. A tiche taad ncpo lowa econckfi... ma homo Oveonevenouseve ta plch, art.]

[Language unknown: Fo redec lancroro,]” the young woman continues. “[Language unknown: Es sonverous hewa ng p haatprnc. Wilughwit'wheles redaveich star st loho ivnele no u llofhowiho ie, lomietomnc of menil prepreati me strni. Ers pa be eiwatrlo ionaveainess haenth ec o plenmi m ekman io. M outto rea, o pein'ngei a po ck. Fo t derencountho, E alin i. Ev pe icaresthe t eeul whbech. Nd La ecevne, Artomestasetere eihis enal unom our ica ion derherson paieos ithsa. Al ma adno teisdi ho ul. M tiodi ilfios palo day pa ilerti ich iele anngetnd wenoomon o. Ti vorncehis O ng ut.]” Her face is soft and kind, and incredibly sad. “[Language unknown: Ut ce it any Wa ckun erill leelfi. Ti erswerent tomopo esher waetle at mo ncmies, arnot in pl ill ha iouonehas e ivday teol pepaad.]
Aldridge
player, 64 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 20:33
  • msg #259

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge swallows hard. The situation was approaching a valley with rock on one side and something hard on the other. "[Language unknown: Beadus arewhikor ri wial ersredlar atrece?]"

Her answer is enough to confirm his suspicions. He is about to confide his fears to his companions when another thought occurs to him. "[Language unknown: I ca eautinoer Beon'erlepr? Dayameill M thur eenainave nceeveousart fone te lin t il m ieer betr he ro dilecandio, it osla mo ndeoreest ine red o butut e ard ereartorente.]" She confirms in River Tongue that she does both understand and speak it.

"This is... I'm sorry, I don't believe you said your name," Aldridge said to the gathered party. "She had been traveling with her mentor after fleeing from an aggressive Terrorclaw tribe," Aldridge raises his voice on the last few words, raising his eyebrows pointedly at the group, "but he fell in battle with an ash-colored bear. She has requested that we retrieve his items, particularly his journal." Aldridge turns to the Bear clanswoman. "I do have some magical literacy. If we find it, perhaps we can help you make sense of his legacy."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:41, Wed 20 May 2015.
Westra
player, 53 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 20:41
  • msg #260

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Well, this changes things a bit," Westra says. "Do we continue our current task or not?"
Aldridge
player, 65 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 20:42
  • msg #261

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I don't see how it changes our current task," Aldridge reasons. "We are hunting predators, and a large, dangerous, magic-resistant white bear seems to qualify."
DM
GM, 75 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 20:51
  • msg #262

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

She replies, “That would be a blessing. He is not far to the north from here. Surely the bear is gone by now.” She pauses, “I suppose I should introduce myself. I am Flutterwing, formerly of the Darkstone clan, now a Wanderer, I suppose. I should like to find a place to call home once more. We were seeking a place to call home, but it seems the Terrorclaw do not tolerate neighbours.

“You seem to be about a purpose, however. Where are you bound? Does your business take you toward the north?” (The place she is describing is probably about an hour away, but well within the zone you might reasonably be hunting predatory prey.)
Westra
player, 54 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:04
  • msg #263

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra sidles up to Aldridge to whisper in his ear, "

"I am in favor of hunting the bear," she says to the rest of the group. "We are on a hunting expedition to add resources to our supplies for trading," she explains to Flutterwing. "It would not be an imposition to head north for a while."
DM
GM, 76 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:18
  • msg #264

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“I would certainly be glad to aid in a hunt. It has been some time, however, since I was on a hunt and I am not a talented warrior. I can do my best, though.” She hefts her warhammer. “I am a novice wise woman. I never did learn to read magic like Stormcaller, but I can cajole helpful spirits when necessary. I just can't seem to control them very well.”
Aldridge
player, 66 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:21
  • msg #265

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"" Aldridge whispers back harshly to the druid, who he is aware has a very solid point. ""

Aldridge notices the giant's limp as she steps. He recommends that Westra generate some Goodberries for the party, perhaps two for the established injured members and the rest for their new companion. Aldridge also attempts to raise her spirits through conversation (Inspiring Leader +6): "We can use all the help we can get; your contribution will be valued. You should hear about what happened to us last night when we all almost died because of a series of communication errors..."

"We are currently hunting any particularly dangerous predator like the raptor you encountered," Aldridge explains to Flutterwing, "but we're also investigating the source of a strange set of animal tracks that we believe to belong to a herd of foxes. Do you have any knowledge of what we may have come across?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:22, Wed 20 May 2015.
DM
GM, 77 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:28
  • msg #266

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“I know a bit of foxes, but I've not heard of that flocking behaviour.” She looks down at the tracks nearby, “And those tracks are much smaller than any fox I've experienced. The tracks do lead roughly north, shall we follow them?”
Alwanzatar
player, 41 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:42
  • msg #267

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan strides casually alongside Aldridge, and speaks in a low voice. "What did you mean, 'magic-resistant?' I'm afraid I couldn't understand your conversation with her."
DM
GM, 79 posts
Wed 20 May 2015
at 21:54
  • msg #268

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing says, “I'm familiar with Goodberries. I know one of the spirits that makes them. I'll ask it for some help.” Flutterwing starts to pray and cajole a rain spirit to heal the party. (Unless someone interrupts her, the party will gain 16 hp after 10 minutes of casting.)
Aldridge
player, 70 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 20 May 2015
at 23:23
  • msg #269

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"She says that the bear appeared almost out of nowhere, completely disguised by the snow," Aldridge explains to Alwanzatar. "Her mentor attempted powerful lightning spells on it, but she said that the bear didn't even flinch. At that point he told her to fled. She didn't actually see the killing blow, though the bear was pacing around him when she attempted to reclaim his body. I'm wondering if he was targeted... And if the bear was really just a bear."

In a low voice, he pulls the sorcerer and Westra close. "I'm not worried about Flutterwing's safety at this point," he confides. "I don't think the Terrorclaws would even remember her. I am worried about what would happen if she came face-to-face with the q’us that killed her family, or were indirectly responsible for the death of her last remaining parent figure. Depending on her reaction, then I would be concerned for her safety. We probably should return to the Terrorclaws, but, and I'm just saying, we could theoretically forfeit the game and just run. Not necessarily a recommendation, just putting that option on the table."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:27, Wed 20 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 44 posts
Thu 21 May 2015
at 02:55
  • msg #270

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"A reasonable concern," Alwan says quietly, "And an option worth considering. I must also mention that although I am eager for a challenge, I fear I will be of little assistance against a creature which spells cannot harm."
Aldridge
player, 72 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 21 May 2015
at 14:38
  • msg #271

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge bites his lip. "Let's follow the vulpine footprints and see where they take us. If we get close enough to Stormcaller, we can investigate, and maybe get to his journal without encountering the bear, but our primary focus will be the footprint mystery."

The party follows the footprints.

(Aldridge's Stealth 22, Survival 11, Perception 6)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:11, Thu 21 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 45 posts
Thu 21 May 2015
at 14:51
  • msg #272

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan treads softly, searching intently for any signs of trouble. (Stealth 18, survival 11, perception 5)
Westra
player, 55 posts
Thu 21 May 2015
at 15:25
  • msg #273

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra sighs softly. "Agreed." She follows behind the group (Stealth 6, Survival 14, Perception 18), her footfalls crackling in the leaves and grass all around them as she contemplates their difficult situation. Though her distraction is making her louder than normal, she keeps a sharp eye out for any trouble.
DM
GM, 80 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 03:12
  • msg #274

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party follows the tracks northward. They veer westerly, then shortly, toward a short bluff. Aldridge's first thought is that the creatures must have gone straight up the bluff, but Ryudo cuts off that thought with a signal to halt. As the party spies the creatures, they take notice of the party.

The air is filled with ringing and jingling as the creatures chime out their aggression. Up close, it's not quite a chime, but it's not quite a chirp either.

They pour out of the bushes and the crannies of the cliff: tiny foxes! Each perhaps eight inches long and maybe a pound each, there are probably almost six-hundred foxes in the swarm, all headed toward the party. Their tiny teeth snap and little voices chime, “Ding!” as they approach.


(The party is now in combat. The swarm will act and take damage as one creature, not 600 creatures. Knowledge checks do not take an action on your turn. The entire party has won initiative, so it is the entire party's turn now. There is a map on Roll20 that you will want to observe and need to keep track of movement on. Hexes with foxes on them are occupied by foxes.)

(Things you know about swarms in general: They resist bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage. They are immune to many conditions, including charmed, frightened, paralyzed, petrified, prone, restrained, and stunned. They can occupy the same space as an enemy and usually attack creatures in their space. They cannot regain hit points or gain temporary hit points.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:47, Fri 22 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 47 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 13:19
  • msg #275

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"This calls for a different approach," Alwan mutters. He raises his hand into the air, and the malachite stone flairs a bright green before he clenches his fist around it. An earth-shattering boom erupts from the middle of the horde of foxes. (Shatter: 14 thunder damage, DC 13 Con save for half).
This message was last edited by the player at 15:31, Fri 22 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 74 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 22 May 2015
at 13:30
  • msg #276

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: Prell chadpece herterandfor,]" Aldridge curses. "That is a LOT of furry chibi-piranhas. The worst part is that there is no way we're picking up every single one of these buggers as trophies," he mutters.

Aldridge gears up his vocal cords, focusing on the center of the pack.
quote:
Work and work for love and sex
Ain't you hungry for success, success, success, success
Does it matter? Shattered! (Shatter, 22 thunder damage)

This message was last edited by the player at 19:10, Fri 22 May 2015.
Westra
player, 56 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 14:14
  • msg #277

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra sprints behind Airdsgainne, coming around the large rock to the right of the party and using it for cover.
Airdsgainne
player, 25 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 16:43
  • msg #278

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne gestures dramatically, and sharp icicles grow out of the snow in front of the foxes. (Spike Growth)
Ryudo
player, 37 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 19:02
  • msg #279

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo, knowing his attacks would be ineffective, prepares his defenses for the flurry of bites and claws that are sure to come.  He tries to scare them away.  "Ring-ding-ding-ding-dingeringeding!"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:06, Fri 22 May 2015.
Flutterwing
Fri 22 May 2015
at 19:27
  • msg #280

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing grabs her shield and starts to cast a spell, holding the final syllable until they close range.
DM
GM, 81 posts
Fri 22 May 2015
at 23:12
  • msg #281

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Dead foxes fly through the air, scattering everywhere and landing in trees as their swarm is shattered. (Fail vs. Alwanzatar; Save vs. Aldridge) They quickly regroup and make their way across Airdsgainne's ice. (30' of travel for the part that spent the most time in the growth: 12 piercing damage, after resistance.)

As they approach the party Flutterwing finishes her spell and a wave of confusion and thunder blasts little foxes every which way! (7 thunder damage to the foxes. The foxes and Ryudo are Confused.)

(It is now the party's turn. Ryudo will take no actions on his turn. He is confused by Flutterwing's spell.)
Aldridge
player, 75 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 25 May 2015
at 05:45
  • msg #282

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge curses again, cursing for the saved spell, the blasted (but mostly unblasted) foxes, and the fact that he can Shatter them only one more time. He backs as far from the foxes as he can and takes a deep breath of air and concentration before singing again. However, his confidence is a bit weaker due to the reception of his last performance (Shatter: 6 thunder damage).
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Mon 25 May 2015.
Ryudo
player, 38 posts
Tue 26 May 2015
at 00:44
  • msg #283

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

What?  Who?  Where?  Um...
Alwanzatar
player, 49 posts
Tue 26 May 2015
at 02:50
  • msg #284

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan unleashes another thunderous boom, then steps cautiously back from the unnerving, tinkling foxes.

(12 thunder damage, DC 13 Con save for half. Ryudo, Airdsganne, and Flutterwing automatically save.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:54, Tue 26 May 2015.
Westra
player, 57 posts
Tue 26 May 2015
at 15:01
  • msg #285

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra calls out a Thunderwave spell from her position behind the rock, being careful to avoid Airdsgainne as much as she can (Attack 19, Damage 11 (2nd level)).
Airdsgainne
player, 26 posts
Tue 26 May 2015
at 16:12
  • msg #286

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne hurls a spike of ice at the far left edge of the swarm. (ice spike, attack 20, damage 4, target & adjacent dex save or 2d6 damage)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:14, Tue 26 May 2015.
Flutterwing
Tue 26 May 2015
at 19:05
  • msg #287

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The giant raises her hands and sends a thunderclap (6 damage; DC 12 con save negates) through the swarm.
DM
GM, 82 posts
Tue 26 May 2015
at 19:10
  • msg #288

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Thunder booms and ice shoots through the swarm. Foxes fly every which way, thrown around by the party's spells. When the snow settles in the air, the foxes are dead. The few live ones have been scattered and are fleeing in every direction.

(The foxes are dead. Gain 550xp. The party is no longer in combat.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:11, Tue 26 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 76 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 26 May 2015
at 19:22
  • msg #289

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge picked up one of the corpses, holding it afar for inspection. "Bugger," he huffs. All that magic wasted on a trophy that can fit in his pocket. He pockets it anyway.

"Now that we've expended all our magic," he says with mock enthusiasm, "who wants to go fight a nigh-invisible bear?"
Flutterwing
Tue 26 May 2015
at 19:27
  • msg #290

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing chuckles, “It matters little. Spells seem to be of no use against it.”
Aldridge
player, 77 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 26 May 2015
at 20:06
  • msg #291

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"All the more reason for us to not fight it if we don't have to," Aldridge replies. "How far are we from Stormcaller, Flutterwing? If you can lead us to within 100 meters of him, I'd like to see how stealthily I can approach him. If we can get downwind of the bear and catch it in line of sight without alerting it before approaching him, even better."
Flutterwing
Wed 27 May 2015
at 15:05
  • msg #292

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“We camped on the other side of that hill last night.” Flutterwing points north. “Perhaps half a mile, at the most?”
Aldridge
player, 78 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 27 May 2015
at 15:17
  • msg #293

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Rather than going over the hill, Aldridge leads the party around the side of the hill. He constantly checks around for the bear, or signs of it still being nearby. (Perception 14, Survival 9)

When he does see the camp, Aldridge signals that the rest of the party stay behind while he approaches. "Keep an eye out, and signal subtly if the bear appears." He leaves, darting between trees as quickly as he thinks is still somewhat stealthy (Stealth 16).
Westra
player, 58 posts
Wed 27 May 2015
at 19:30
  • msg #294

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra sits down to rest her feet and keeps an eye out for anything in the shadows (Perception 8, Nature 9).
DM
GM, 83 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:26
  • msg #295

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

As the camp comes into view, Flutterwing's eyes set with a steely resolve. The cause is obvious. Her mentor has been picked clean by the bear and is now nothing more than scattered bones and a wide red smear across the landscape. The nearby shelter is dishevelled, but unmolested. Amidst the bones, Aldridge can see a pile of small stone tablets. The bones and snow are in the open, with no cover nearby.

There are bear tracks nearby that suggest a moderately large bear, perhaps no more than eight hundred pounds. The tracks do not go next to the bones, but rather around them. It's as though each bone were tossed to the size when the bear finished its flensing. A pile of bear excrement lies near where Aldridge is hiding. The rest of the party is hanging back, to avoid giving away the sneak-bard. Flutterwing is holding very still, trying to keep her armour from shaking with her rage.
Aldridge
player, 79 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:38
  • msg #296

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge quietly inspects the excrement. He figures what is left in the bear's waste is enough to tell him many details about it, such as its breed, appetite size, whether it travels alone, the strength of its nose, its travel habits... (Perception 5, Nature 16) He isn't able to see much in the excrement other than... well, exactly what one would expect.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:39, Thu 28 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 50 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:46
  • msg #297

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan also has a look around, while remaining as inconspicuous as possible. (Perception 8, Stealth 19)
DM
GM, 84 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:47
  • msg #298

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear appears to have a great deal of animal flesh in its diet. Given by the size of the tracks, the creature must eat quite a bit to sustain itself each day. It's difficult to tell precise travel patterns from the refuse, but you can't imagine a creature being able to eat that much without travelling quite a bit. Aldridge additionally notes that the poop is really quite hot. The snow nearby melts as Aldridge pokes the pile open, as though he'd uncovered a few live coals from a dead fire.
DM
GM, 85 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:48
  • msg #299

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar is noticeably quieter, in an unnoticeable sort of way, but does observe anything other than what Aldridge has taken note of.
Alwanzatar
player, 51 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:51
  • msg #300

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alarmed by how recently the bear must have produced the leavings, and even more concerned at the reports of its immunity to magic, Alwan quietly slips a stone into his sling. (Readied action: ranged attack)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Thu 28 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 80 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #301

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge panics, but keeps quiet. He sneaks back to the party to convey that they were very, very, very close to a big white bear. "Look alive," he whispers as he nocks an arrow. "That thing is probably still hungry, and I want to get eyes on it before it gets eyes, ears, or nose on us. And definitely before claw or tongue."
Westra
player, 59 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 17:12
  • msg #302

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra gets to her feet and readies her staff, trying hard to sense if there is anything around them (perception 19).
DM
GM, 86 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 17:52
  • msg #303

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra has a sort of sense of impending doom, but no clear indication of where the bear might be. All appears to be quiet.
Aldridge
player, 81 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 18:01
  • msg #304

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge sighs and casts a Silent Image: a plump, appetizing, clueless human in bright garb. He wills it to walk toward the bones, circling them and moving in a path that leads it out in the open along the hilltops.
DM
GM, 87 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 19:09
  • msg #305

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The plump human walks around rather convincingly for about ten minutes. The party sits nearby, ready to strike. But after ten minutes, the illusion fades to no effect.
Aldridge
player, 82 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 19:13
  • msg #306

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge slaps his forehead in frustration. "No bear," he moans. He looks down at the remains. "Well, I suppose it wasn't a total loss. We can still reclaim his journal." He leads the party down to the skeleton, searching his belongings.
DM
GM, 88 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 19:44
  • msg #307

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge walks quickly out into the snow-covered field. As he approaches the bones, all of the sudden, the bones, the tablets and Aldridge disappear into a sinkhole! The air is filled with the loud sound of cracking bones, far more bones than could belong to Aldridge. Any creature nearby could easily have heard the sound.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:33, Thu 28 May 2015.
Flutterwing
Thu 28 May 2015
at 19:49
  • msg #308

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing is horrified! “That wasn't there when we camped! I walked over that spot many times!” She starts to move carefully toward the hole, watching the ground where she goes.
Airdsgainne
player, 27 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 20:00
  • msg #309

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne moves quickly to the edge of the pit and looks in.
DM
GM, 89 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 20:04
  • msg #310

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The pit is roughly dug, but about 40' deep and 5' across. There are sharp bone fragments stabbed into the walls, now broken. At the bottom, standing among more spikes is Aldridge, unharmed.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:34, Thu 28 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 52 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 20:29
  • msg #311

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The instant Aldridge begins to fall, Alwan snaps his arm forward, palm and malachite facing the plummeting adventurer. He mutters an incantation with great haste. (Feather Fall, Aldridge takes no falling damage.) Then, he hurriedly withdraws a rope from his pack, ties it around a nearby tree, and tosses the end down to Aldridge. As the others react, he does his best to vanish back into the foliage, once again readying the sling. (15 stealth)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:42, Thu 28 May 2015.
Flutterwing
Thu 28 May 2015
at 20:43
  • msg #312

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing immediately grabs the rope, “Songsmith, take hold!”
Westra
player, 60 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 20:55
  • msg #313

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra moves closer to the group and concentrates with all her might on her surroundings, willing herself to perceive what is causing the dread settling all around them (perception 24).
Aldridge
player, 84 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:06
  • msg #314

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge lets out a huge sigh of relief. "Much appreciated, Alwan," he calls out, aware that the element of surprise was now out of their grasp. He looks around at the items that fell with him, pocketing the tablets as he grabs the rope. "The bear definitely heard that, no doubt. Would everyone else mind grabbing the rope, get me out of here and ready?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:07, Thu 28 May 2015.
Westra
player, 61 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:08
  • msg #315

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra grabs the rope and begins to pull (strength 13).
Flutterwing
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:15
  • msg #316

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Featherwing pulls mightily and easily draws Aldridge out of the hole. “It's a good thing you Monkey clan are so scrawny. You want to get out of here? I'm sure that thing heard us.”
This message was last updated by the GM at 21:15, Thu 28 May 2015.
DM
GM, 91 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:16
  • msg #317

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra hears a quiet rustle from the north. It's a ways off yet, but it sounds as though it's approaching.
Aldridge
player, 85 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:26
  • msg #318

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge runs and hides on the south side of a tree near Alwanzatar (stealth 21). He nocks an arrow, aims generically north, and quietly sings a scale to warm up his vocal cords.
DM
GM, 92 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:50
  • msg #319

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

(The party should now decide if they are running away or attempting to ambush. Flutterwing is frightened and would prefer to run, but would rather stay with the party than to go off alone.)
Alwanzatar
player, 54 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:54
  • msg #320

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Much as I would like to avoid a fight, I suspect we will not succeed in evading this monster," Alwan whispers.
Westra
player, 62 posts
Thu 28 May 2015
at 21:56
  • msg #321

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"We got what we came for," Westra says to the group. "I don't want to stay here and face whatever that is. It gives me a very bad feeling. I say we chance running, but I will stay and fight, reluctantly, if that is what the group decides."
Aldridge
player, 86 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 28 May 2015
at 22:01
  • msg #322

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge wants to fight, but he returns the arrow to his quiver. He looks around for resources, or a suitable escape route. Suddenly, he gets an idea. "I suggest we head southwest," he says coyly, pointing. "And we be unstealthy about it. I have a plan, provided we can keep ahead of the bear."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:03, Thu 28 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 55 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 03:04
  • msg #323

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan raises an eyebrow. "Do tell."
Flutterwing
Fri 29 May 2015
at 04:35
  • msg #324

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing nods her head, “There will be time for explanations while we run. Let's move!” She starts to make her way where Aldridge indicated, looking back to see if people follow.
Aldridge
player, 87 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 29 May 2015
at 12:36
  • msg #325

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge hurriedly gestures to the rest of the party to follow Flutterwing's lead. "Ryudo and Westra, you're in the front. Make sure we don't stumble into another trap or another predator. Our heading is southwest, about 3 miles. I'll explain when we get within a half mile. Westra, can you turn into a bear again? Don't turn right now, but we're mostly downwind. You're also a hunter; if you can sense that the bear is still within a quarter-mile of us periodically, we can make sure to string it along until we're ready for it."

"Airdsgainne, Alwanzatar, and I will take the back. We're in charge of making sure that it stays on our tail, but not too close. I know that it's supposed to resist magic, but between the three of us, I think we can manage to cast something that can slow it enough to keep ahead of it."

"If we do run into another predator, take your shots on it while we run, cripple it, and let the bear have it. Then we reclaim its attention. As weird as this sounds, we need that bear."

Aldridge takes the tablets off his person, quickly glancing through one of them as he moves it to Saphira's saddle bags. He attempts to ascertain the contents as he leads his drake. At first glance, the text appears to be complete gibberish. Aldridge considers whether it is another language, arcane writings, or merely the carvings of a madman. More study will be required, but at this time, Aldridge puts the tablet away. For now, he runs.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:48, Fri 05 June 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 56 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 14:41
  • msg #326

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"This plan sounds mad," Alwan says with a smirk. "I like it." He follows from behind as instructed.
DM
GM, 93 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 18:36
  • msg #327

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The rules for the chase are as follows:

  • The bear is a half mile yonder. (2640')
  • You are three miles from your goal. (15840')
  • Time will be measured in minutes, unless the bear closes to combat range.
  • You must choose how fast to travel:

    Careful pace (6 times your speed):
    You may cast spells, make weapon attacks, or other actions on your turn (including readying actions). You may make stealth checks. You may make active perception checks.

    Normal pace (10 times your speed):
    You may cast spells, make weapon attacks, or other actions on your turn (including readying actions). You cannot take stealth actions.

    Brisk pace (13 times your speed):
    Casting spells, making attacks, or using other actions requires a Constitution (Endurance) check. You may not take stealth actions. You take -5 on perception checks.

    Fast pace (15 times your speed):
    You may not cast spells, make attacks, or use other actions. You may not take stealth actions. You take a -5 penalty on perception checks. A fast pace requires a Constitution (Endurance) check (see below).

    Sprinting pace (20 times your speed):
    You may not cast spells, make attacks, or use other actions. You may not take stealth actions. You may not make perception checks. A sprinting pace requires a Constitution (Endurance) check, made with disadvantage (see below).


Endurance: Endurance checks are Constitution checks to continue running. You may add your proficiency bonus if you are trained in Athletics. Every character may automatically choose to succeed on a number of Endurance checks equal to 3+Con modifier. (Expended automatic successes return after a short rest.) If you have disadvantage on the check, you may expend one automatic success to negate the disadvantage or two to automatically succeed.

It is now the party's turn. Indicate your speed, make relevant checks, and declare other actions. Turns will fast forward to the next decision point, so indicate if you plan to do something a few minutes hence so your plan isn't fast-forwarded through.

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:43, Fri 29 May 2015.
Aldridge
player, 88 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 29 May 2015
at 18:46
  • msg #328

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge recommends a Brisk pace for four minutes, and a Normal pace on the fifth, repeating until a call to action requires differently.

"Ryudo, you're a bit swifter than the rest of us. Your normal pace should be as fast as our Brisk pace, so I'll let you decide how far ahead you want to scout versus how carefully you check our surroundings."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:02, Fri 29 May 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 57 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 19:00
  • msg #329

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan nods his agreement.
Ryudo
player, 39 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 19:07
  • msg #330

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo concurs. He stays quite near the front of the party, but keeps a sharp eye out. (Passive perception 15) At a normal pace, Ryudo travels up to 450'.
Westra
player, 63 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 19:18
  • msg #331

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra travels at a brisk pace, but plans on slowing to a careful pace every four minutes to check on the bear (perception 19, 9, and 18 for the first 15 minutes of travel).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:45, Fri 29 May 2015.
DM
GM, 94 posts
Fri 29 May 2015
at 22:54
  • msg #332

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party makes it's way quickly over the hills and through the woods. The bear is no longer sneaking, but rather following the party pell-mell across the snow. After about ten minutes, the party reaches a sharp cliff face. The face is rough enough to climb (DC 10) and about 20' tall. It would take about a minute to climb carefully from the top to the bottom.

Ryudo and Westra conclude that the bear is approaching the party and may even overtake it, if the current speed is maintained. Westra also concludes that the cliff is likely to slow the bear by a minute as it climbs down, but probably not much more than that.

Ryudo is in the front and reaches the cliff first. Flutterwing and Alwanzatar are both 600' behind him. Aldridge is 180' behind them and Westra is 240' behind him. Airdsgainne trails the group on his short little legs, 230' behind Westra, almost a quarter-mile behind Ryudo.

(The party is starting to thin out. The people in front should decide whether they want to slow down to stay with the slower members. The slower members should decide whether they want to pick up the pace, possibly making checks to move faster.

Everyone should indicate how they wish to handle the cliff. It is too wide to be relevantly walked around. It can be climbed at the cost of a minute and a DC 10 Strength Athletics check. Other ways to travel down cliffs, some more quickly, exist. A character with a DC 15 climb check can give advantage to one adjacent person climbing down next to them. A character can climb down quickly with a DC 20 Strength Athletics check; this only takes half a minute.)

This message was last edited by the GM at 17:03, Tue 02 June 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 28 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 15:09
  • msg #333

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Seeing the bear gaining on him, Airdsgainne picks up the pace. (Fast Pace, automatic success)

"Westra!" he shouts, "That bush at the cliff is Mammoth's Blood, harvest it if you have time!"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:56, Mon 01 June 2015.
Aldridge
player, 89 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 16:18
  • msg #334

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge walks back towards Airdsgainne, using the time to catch his breath and get a look of their surroundings and the fast-approaching bear. Once Airdsgainne catches up, Aldridge picks up the midget and stuffs him in one of Saphira's saddle bags. "Try not to move around too much, bags of flour are usually pretty still." He smacks Saphira just above her tail. "[Language unknown: Larut sete o, was ingithing. Olith fiekli ssteof pre inthouousaretho, con o sa at itthar noiome!]" She groans in protest as she takes off ahead of her master.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:54, Mon 01 June 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 58 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 17:56
  • msg #335

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I can take five of us down safely with another Feather Fall," Alwan announces loudly.
Ryudo
player, 40 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 19:44
  • msg #336

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Take the others. I'll meet you down there!"  Ryudo says when he approaches the cliff.  He starts climbing down immediately while the rest run to catch up. (Athletics: 2)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:05, Mon 01 June 2015.
Aldridge
player, 90 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 22:54
  • msg #337

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Flutterwing!" Aldridge pants as he nears the cliff. "When we land, carry Airdsgainne! I trust you a little bit more than Saphira here." The drake is too busy eyeing the cliffside, wary of the height. Aldridge groans. "Flutterwing, do you mind climbing down and letting the drakes Featherfall? They're not as graceful as you!" He looks over the edge. "Though probably a little more graceful than Ryudo."

Aldridge thinks to himself before attempting what doesn't look so hard: scaling the cliff at full speed. (Athletics 15)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:58, Mon 01 June 2015.
DM
GM, 95 posts
Mon 1 Jun 2015
at 23:00
  • msg #338

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Once Airdsgainne points it out, Westra also recognizes the Mammoth's Blood bush.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:03, Tue 02 June 2015.
DM
GM, 95 posts
Tue 2 Jun 2015
at 22:33
  • msg #339

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo arrives at the cliff first. “I'll meet you down there!” he shouts. As he turns, the rock beneath his foot shifts and he slides neatly and suddenly out of view. Cursing from the bottom of the cliff continues for about a minute as he extracts himself from the loose rock that landed atop him. (7 damage)

Aldridge runs back to catch Airdsgainne and puts him over Saphira. He slaps the lizard, who takes off toward the cliff. Aldridge then runs toward the cliff himself, straining to keep up. (Aldridge automatically succeeds on one Endurance check.)

Flutterwing and Alwanzatar arrive with easily a minute to spare before the others arrive. Flutterwing offers to help Alwanzatar climb down. (18 Athletics)

Westra sees the bush and sprints toward it. (Spends two successes to sprint.) With the time she gains, she carefully, but quickly collects the leaves and flowers. (Westra has Mammoth's Blood flowers and leaves.)

The drakes see the edge of the cliff and shy away from it.

Aldridge and Airdsgainne arrive about the time Westra finishes collecting leaves.

The bear is less than a minute behind the party as Aldridge arrives at the cliff. (450')

(Flutterwing and Alwanzatar arrive a minute early and could climb down if they wished.

Aldridge, Airdsgainne, Westra, and the two drakes arrive fairly close together. The drakes are reluctant to walk off the edge of the cliff. A variety of tactics might be used to convince them: Animal Handling, Intimidation, Grapple, Bull Rush, and others.

The flowers can be chewed to provide 2d6 temporary hit points, double carrying capacity, advantage on Strength and Constitution checks, and a feeling of euphoria for ten minutes. The leaves can be distilled into an elixir that does similarly, but for longer.)

This message was last edited by the GM at 22:37, Tue 02 June 2015.
Westra
player, 65 posts
Tue 2 Jun 2015
at 23:55
  • msg #340

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra attempts to cajole the drakes off the cliff (Animal Handling 13).
DM
GM, 96 posts
Wed 3 Jun 2015
at 01:13
  • msg #341

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra's cajoling does not appear to be sufficient. (It is partially effective, however: it grants advantage to another check.)
Ryudo
player, 41 posts
Thu 4 Jun 2015
at 16:33
  • msg #342

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo attempts to call the animals down to him. (Animal Handling 12)
DM
GM, 97 posts
Thu 4 Jun 2015
at 21:52
  • msg #343

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo's attempts are not successful, but he manages not to make things worse. (Next check still has advantage.)
Alwanzatar
player, 59 posts
Thu 4 Jun 2015
at 21:57
  • msg #344

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"JUMP. OFF. THE. CLIFF. NOW!" Alwan yells. (24 Intimidation)
DM
GM, 98 posts
Thu 4 Jun 2015
at 22:04
  • msg #345

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The beasts have no idea what Alwanzatar is upset about, but whatever it is, they decide that it's probably less dangerous to jump off a cliff as their handlers are indicating. The beasts, as well as the rest of the party jump into the air, where they are caught by Alwanzatar's magic and brought swiftly, but not too swiftly, to the ground.

Aldridge gets a twinkle in his eye and says, “I have another crazy idea…”

The rest of the party becomes immediately apprehensive. “Your last idea was to be chased by a bear,” Flutterwing says. “Am I going to like this next one?”

“Well, maybe not you specifically,” Aldridge says. “We're not really very fast runners. You are. How many of us can you carry?”

Flutterwing looks to the rest of the party, “Uh, I might could get a few of you. What do you think?”

(The party is down the cliff, but has a few seconds for conversation about the strategy going forward. Flutterwing can, without buffs, carry 450 lbs.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:06, Thu 04 June 2015.
Aldridge
player, 91 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 13:23
  • msg #346

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Without asking, Aldridge grabs the Mammoth's Blood from Westra, stuffing them into Flutterwing's palm. "Eat these!" Aldridge instructs. "Everyone, help me lift Airdsgainne to her shoulder. Once the flowers take effect, everyone except Ryudo grab an arm. When we're all on, we're rushing as fast as we can on our current trajectory!"
Westra
player, 66 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 16:21
  • msg #347

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Hey, those were mine!" Westra lifts Airdsgainne onto Flutterwing's shoulders, then takes a moment to flick Aldridge's ear with a finger. "Just because I require your beast to carry my valuables does not mean that everything of mine is yours."

She then grabs Flutterwing's left arm, huffing indignantly.
Aldridge
player, 92 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 16:37
  • msg #348

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I'll take an angry hunter over an angry giant supernatural bear any day," Aldridge says as he clings to Flutterwing from behind, rubbing his ear. "The cliff should buy us some time. Let us not squander it."

He turns his attention to the drakes. "Ryudo, go on ahead, and take the drakes with you best you can. If you reach a point that's going to require more cajoling to get them to follow, spend a little time to encourage them, but keep moving if they refuse. If it gets real bad, we'll set them on their own way. Hopefully they'll know to keep up, if we somehow pass them."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:52, Fri 05 June 2015.
DM
GM, 99 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 19:44
  • msg #349

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party members, except Ryudo and the drakes, all climb quickly on Flutterwing. (Hanging on to Flutterwing takes at least one hand. An Acrobatics check can be made to temporarily use two hands to perform an action.) Flutterwing chews the flower and says, “We shall certainly outpace the bear now! It will never catch us!” She cackles somewhat unnervingly.

Flutterwing casts a spell and her feet quicken. She beats a most expeditious retreat away from the bear. She sprints into the forest with the party, leaving Ryudo to keep up. (Sprinting pace) Deep footprints, a trail broken branches and her scent against nearby shrubs mark her path clearly enough for a blind bear in hibernation to find it. The spell seems to spark wildly from her feet.

(The party may make whatever checks or actions they wish. I will assume you are all actively keeping watch unless you mention otherwise. Ryudo should post his pace and identify whether he wishes to slow his pace to keep up with the mounts.)
Westra
player, 67 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 19:56
  • msg #350

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"THIS IS THE STRANGEST THING I'VE EVER DONE," Westra yells over the wind flying past them.
Flutterwing
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 20:05
  • msg #351

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“Wooo!” Flutterwing says excitedly, “The Spirits of the Rabbit and the Mammoth, all at once!”
Aldridge
player, 93 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 20:06
  • msg #352

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"This... Is not the strangest thing I have ever done," Aldridge considers. "Thanks for reminding me about the rabbits..."
Aldridge
player, 94 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 20:22
  • msg #353

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge squints ahead. While he is glad to be putting such a distance between them and the bear, the stealth part of the plan is quickly approaching, much faster than he had anticipated. This next part, he knows, will require finesse... A little more finesse than a speeding teenage Bear Clanswoman with sparking feet, high on euphoria.

Aldridge scans the paths for something that could redirect the bear's attention... Another set of tracks, perhaps not unlike those of the Terrorclaws who settled very near to where the party is currently headed.

And, of course, for the plan to work without reprisals, they will need to do that without letting the Terrorclaws know that the party led it there.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:24, Fri 05 June 2015.
Ryudo
player, 42 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 22:16
  • msg #354

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo sprints along with Flutterwing.
DM
GM, 100 posts
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 23:43
  • msg #355

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party sprints into the woods. The sparks flying off of Flutterwing's feet shoot every which way for a full minute. A spark flies out and hits a nearby squirrel. The squirrel grows three snake heads that hiss at Flutterwing. “THE SNAKES!!! THEY'RE GOING TO KILL US ALL!!!” she shouts as she sprints away. Illusory butterflies and flower petals trail behind Flutterwing, as though fairies were throwing a parade as she passed. A nearby tree explodes, showering the party in splinters, though harmlessly. Flutterwing becomes invisible, making the party appear to be flying through the forest.

Then, after a minute of sheer madness, the strange effects subside. She becomes visible and stops leaving butterflies in her wake. She no longer shouts when she speaks and no odd creatures appear.

Then, about two minutes later, with the entire party keeping a close eye out, Flutterwing runs through a low bush. If the party had been looking forward instead of backward (failed perception checks), they might have realized it was a Barburil Bush. Even the slightest brush of a Barburil Bush can throw noxious dust into the air, and Flutterwing ran right through it!

And if the party had been looking forward, and carefully, they might have also seen the swarm of scorpions that made its home in that bush.

Flutterwing stumbles for a moment she breathes the noxious dust. The scorpions swarm all over her body and the bodies of her allies. Flutterwing shrugs off the effects of the plant and continues running, heedless of the scorpions crawling over her body.

(The party is now in combat with the Scorpions. Is is the party's turn. Ryudo is not nearby, so he will not take part. Aldridge, Airdsgainne, Westra, and Alwanzatar should each take a turn. Those people also need to make Con saves against the effects of the plant.)
Aldridge
player, 95 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 5 Jun 2015
at 23:55
  • msg #356

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge coughs upon inhaling the toxic dust (Con Save 18). He takes out his rapier with his dominant hand while holding on for dear life with his weaker hand. He attempts to pick off scorpions as he sees them (AC 21, D 3).

"Still not the weirdest thing I've ever done," Aldridge mutters.
Alwanzatar
player, 60 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 15:28
  • msg #357

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan succumbs to the dust (Con not-save 9)
Airdsgainne
player, 29 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 15:58
  • msg #358

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne coughs and sputters (Con Save 12) as he reaches toward the scorpions, and ice crystals form on their carapaces. (Frostbite)
Westra
player, 68 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 16:05
  • msg #359

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra, too, succumbs to the dust (con save 4).
DM
GM, 101 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #360

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party hangs on for dear life as Flutterwing barrels unphased through the chaos crawling on her body. Aldridge and Airdsgainne are visibly disturbed by the noxious dust, but are rather more concerned about the scorpions crawling all over their bodies. Aldridge swipes several away with his rapier. (1 damage) Airdsgainne takes a more arcane approach and sends a wave of freezing magic through them. Many of the scorpions on Airdsgainnes face fall off, frozen. (6 damage, disadvantage) The total number of scorpions is significantly reduced, but still unpleasantly numerous.

Alwanzatar doesn't handle the gas nearly as well. He spends several moments choking, visibly unsettled. Westra is violently afflicted by the noxious smell. She vomits suddenly and violently, covering (randomly determined) Alwanzatar with the contents of her stomach.

The scorpions swarm over the obviously ill Westra, stinging her repeatedly around her shoulders, face, eyes and mouth. (maximum HP reduced by 2, poisoned (disadvantage on attacks and checks))

(The noxious gas has passed and the party no longer needs to roll saves against it. Alwanzatar, however, is slicked down and must spend his action on an Acrobatics check to hang on. Party members may either help with an Acrobatics check (and provide advantage) or simply grab him with an Athletics check (highest roll is effective). It is the party's turn.)
Alwanzatar
player, 61 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:01
  • msg #361

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan hangs on for dear life. (Acrobatics 23)
Aldridge
player, 96 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:07
  • msg #362

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge puts his sword away and waves a hand at Alwanzatar (Prestidigitation), tossing Westra's tossed cookies behind them so the sorcerer doesn't have to contend with the disgusting lubricant.
Westra
player, 69 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:11
  • msg #363

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Ugh, I'm sorry, Alwan," Westra yells. She tries to shake the scorpions off her body and bat them off her face with her staff.
Alwanzatar
player, 62 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:12
  • msg #364

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan sighs in relief. "Many, many thanks!"
Aldridge
player, 97 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:15
  • msg #365

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"It was more for my sake than yours, but you're welcome anyway," Aldridge says, making sure that none landed on himself as well.

"Flutterwing! We're covered in scorpions here, and I think Westra is poisoned!"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:25, Mon 08 June 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 30 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 17:40
  • msg #366

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne gestures again and the frost covering the scorpions thickens. (Frostbite)
Flutterwing
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 19:30
  • msg #367

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“That does sound uncomfortable! I'm absolutely certain you guys can get rid of them. This plan is going great!” The cheerful optimism in Flutterwing's voice would be a bit more convincing if she weren't channelling the Spirit of the Mammoth. “I'd better hurry!”

Flutterwing continues her sprint.
DM
GM, 102 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 20:35
  • msg #368

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne's magic flows through the scorpions, freezing many of them. (3 damage, disadvantage)

Westra chews up and spits out a mouthful of scorpions and frantically bashes at her own head with her staff. It's somewhat effective, and smashes a good number of scorpions into her face. (3 damage) The scorpions continue their stinging frenzy, many now working their way into Westra's armour. (3 reduced health, still poisoned. Scorpions in Westra's armour can be squished more easily as they can outside of her armour, but it's not possible to target those with spells that don't target Westra as well. Westra has plenty of scorpions in her hair and on Flutterwing's back, as well.) The swarm starts to crawl up Alwanzatar's arms and neck as well. The swarm looks to be about half the size it was when it first crawled up.

Alwanzatar keeps his grip amidst the chaos and mess, making it look much easier than it actually was.

The ground flies by beneath Flutterwing's feet.

(Party's turn. Everybody can go.)
Aldridge
player, 98 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 20:49
  • msg #369

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge takes out his rapier again, flicking off scorpions (14 vs AC, D 10).
Westra
player, 70 posts
Mon 8 Jun 2015
at 20:56
  • msg #370

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra lunges into Flutterwing's side, trying to smush the scorpions inside her armor. "I" - WHUMP - "don't" - SMASH - "like" - WHAM - "bugs!" she says, her voice beginning to develop into an embarrassing shriek.

"Actually," says Aldridge, conversationally, "scorpions are related to spiders, which aren't bugs."

"Whatever!" Westra screeches, clawing at her hair with her staff.
Aldridge
player, 99 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 15:48
  • msg #371

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge looks ahead. He decides that Flutterwing isn't really in a position to help fight off the arthropods, and focuses her orders on evading the giant bear of a problem behind them. "Do you see where the forest grows thicker? We need to lose the bear, and that's where we're going to do it. Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more!"

"Because recent history has demonstrated that has worked out SO WELL!" Westra shrieks as she crushes another scorpion.
DM
GM, 103 posts
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 16:02
  • msg #372

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The melee atop the giantess continues. Airdsgain thrusts his hand toward the swarm and dozens of scorpions freeze and fall off, frozen little ice statues littering Flutterwing's wake. (3 damage, disadvantage) Adridge swings his rapier at the bugs, dislodging them a few at a time. By accident, he elbows Westra in the breastplate, crushing most of the creatures stinging her from within her armour. (5 damage) Westra attempts to clear the scorpions from her hair, but is distracted by Aldridge's impromptu, but effective, elbow-squishing.

The scorpions climbing Alwanzatar's face are ignored by everyone except Alwanzatar. The sorcerer attempts to blast them with magic, but somehow misses the creatures that are right before his eyes. Seizing on the advantage afforded by being positioned right before a pair of eyes, the swarm promptly stings them, repeatedly. (maximum health reduced by 1, poisoned)

The vast majority of the swarm has been frozen or otherwise removed. Only a small patch of scorpions in Westra's hair and on Alwanzatar's face remain.

(Party's turn. Everybody can go.)
Westra
player, 71 posts
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 16:10
  • msg #373

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra shakes her head vigorously and bats at her hair with her staff to try dislodging the few squirming masses she feels against her scalp. "Never again," she says. "I swear, if we come across scorpions again, you will suddenly find me far, far away."

Turning to Aldridge, she asks, "What's the plan, trader? I'm feeling a bit unlike myself right now. I'd like to be able to stop and heal soon. I don't know how easily I can get to my herbs without dropping them while riding on the back of a crazed Bear."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:19, Fri 12 June 2015.
Aldridge
player, 100 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 16:15
  • msg #374

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Airdgainne, help Alwan! I don't think he'll appreciate me sticking my sword in his eyes," Aldridge says. "Apologies in advance for the haircut, Westra," Aldridge says as he swings at the scorpions in her hair (AC 10, D 6).

"We continue until we're obscured by the forest. Cast Pass Without Trace when we're rid of these things, and I think we'll finally put that bear at a disadvantage."
Airdsgainne
player, 31 posts
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 19:40
  • msg #375

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne points his wand very carefully, and precise white beams fire at the scorpions on Alwanzatar's face, materialising into ice crystals which engulf them. (Frostbite)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:40, Fri 12 June 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 63 posts
Fri 12 Jun 2015
at 20:21
  • msg #376

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"You do not belong here," Alwan mutters at the creatures on his face as he attempts to burn them off. (7 vs. AC, 5 fire damage)
DM
GM, 104 posts
Wed 17 Jun 2015
at 16:47
  • msg #377

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra shakes her head wildly. Her shoulder-length black hair whips around, the ties that bind it breaking loose. As her braids come loose, the vermin lose their grip and fly into the forest behind them. Fire and frost eliminate the eye-stabbing scorpions on Alwanzatar's face.

(The party has eliminated the scorpions and is now out of combat. Flutterwing continues to fly through the forest, a bit more steadily now that her passengers are a bit less active.

The party should indicate what, if any, strategy changes they'd like to make as they continue and communicate that to Flutterwing. Also, any post-combat spells party members might like to cast.)

Aldridge
player, 101 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 17 Jun 2015
at 18:48
  • msg #378

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Flutterwing, keeps running until we reach the trees. Cut the pace to half when we reach them so Ryudo can catch up. I'll direct you near where we're going. We'll want to go a stealthy pace once we're confident the bear is unsure of our location."

"Westra, as soon as we reach the forest, we need to Pass Without Trace."

"Everyone else, focus on us not getting ambushed by more scorpions, predators, or anything humanoid. The bear isn't the only thing I don't want to see us. If anyone has any invisibility spells, now is the time to speak up. Else we may be reliant on another short-term illusion."
Westra
player, 72 posts
Wed 17 Jun 2015
at 19:43
  • msg #379

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra readies herself to cast Pass Without Trace as soon as they hit the trees.
DM
GM, 105 posts
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 17:39
  • msg #380

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The team races through the forest for a minute. Flutterwing shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Ryudo, on the other hand, is starting to get tired. (7 endurance check fails; Ryudo gains one level of exhaustion: Disadvantage on ability checks.)

The scorpion venom continues to course through the veins of Alwanzatar and Westra. Alwanzatar seems to be reacting worse than Westra. (Westra saves, Alwanzatar fails. Both are still poisoned. Alwanzatar's max health is reduced by 1.)

(The party may continue the existing strategy, alter course, or take other actions. The venom appears to be moderately quickly acting, producing a possible effect each minute. If the effects are resisted several times consecutively, the body might be able to rid itself of the venom on its own. A careful analysis by a someone trained in medicine might yield additional insight.)
Aldridge
player, 102 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 17:50
  • msg #381

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Flutterwing, stop for a minute. I want Ryudo to catch up with us." Aldridge looks at his poisoned companions. Always poison, dammit. "How learned are you in venoms?" he asks the Bearclanswoman. "Have you prepared any restoration spells today? Alwan and Westra seem to be struggling with our venomous encounter with the scorpions. Can you help them?"

Aldridge looks back at the struggling Ryudo, and squints to see what has become of their pursuer and the drakes. He instructs the rest of the present party to check their surroundings, as well.
Flutterwing
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 17:55
  • msg #382

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing slows to a quick walk, but doesn't completely halt immediately. “I know a Water Lily Spirit that can drive poison from the body, but I have only the strength to summon it once,” she says.
DM
GM, 106 posts
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 18:00
  • msg #383

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The drakes appear to have gone off in a different direction. Aldridge can no longer see them, but they do not appear to be between the bear and the party. Ryudo is about half a mile back; the bear is about the same behind Ryudo. Ryudo is moving quite a bit faster than the bear, but he is starting to get tired. Aldridge isn't sure he can go more than a few more minutes at that pace.
Westra
player, 73 posts
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 18:40
  • msg #384

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I am fairly knowledgeable in medicinal matters. Let me see what I can find out." Westra quickly examines herself and Alwan (14 Medicine).
Aldridge
player, 103 posts
Bard, Trader
Fri 19 Jun 2015
at 19:38
  • msg #385

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: Ekof are restinthu]," Aldridge sighs with resignation. "Flutterwing, drop us off here, run back to Ryudo, and carry him back to us. We'll continue at a walking pace until we are all back together. I think we're deep enough into this plan that everyone needs to know what we need to do."

As Flutterwing runs back to the monk, Aldridge turns to his ill companions.

"Westra and Alwan, how much longer do you think you can hold out before being healed? I don't exactly want to save the spell for when another one of us are on death's entrance like yesterday, but I don't want to use Flutterwing's only means of curing poison if it turns out we really need it later. If we do use it, who needs it more?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:08, Mon 22 June 2015.
DM
GM, 107 posts
Mon 22 Jun 2015
at 21:43
  • msg #386

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra quickly takes stock of the symptoms. “The good news is that we're both healthy and in reasonable shape to shake off the scorpion venom. The bad news is that if we don't, neither of us will see our next meal, much less our next sunrise. Even if we survive, this venom can weaken its victims for days. A single sting is dangerous, and we've been stuck hundreds of times. What we need is a spell, antitoxin, or good fortune. Or, possibly, all three.”

(Mechanically, the poison takes effect once a minute. If the victim saves, they don't suffer new effects. If they save enough times in a row, they rid themselves of the poison. Westra believes the poison has an aftereffect, but isn't certain what it is, just that it should be treated with lots of rest.)
Westra
player, 74 posts
Mon 22 Jun 2015
at 22:10
  • msg #387

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I'm feeling all right for now," says Westra (she's at 11/19 hit points), "but one blow is liable to knock me unconscious. I do hope we do not have to face that bear right now. I can turn into a bear myself once more, however, should worse come to worse."
Aldridge
player, 104 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 22 Jun 2015
at 22:49
  • msg #388

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"We'll have to see how much luck we have over the next few minutes," Aldridge says as the quicker members approach. "Hopefully we'll only be unlucky enough to require one use of the spell. Are the effects still present even after the poison is removed, or will removing it only prevent a worsened condition? Alwan, how are you feeling?"
DM
GM, 108 posts
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 17:21
  • msg #389

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra answers the first question, "With the poison removed, we will stop worsening, but it will take rest to fully heal the damage." Alwanzatar answers the second, "I'm not too bad at the moment, and nothing's killed me so far. But those scorpions are nasty." (Alwanzatar has -2 to max hp and a fairly decent constitution. Westra has -5 max health and slightly lower, but still good constitution.)
DM
GM, 109 posts
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 20:08
  • msg #390

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"All right! I'll rescue the garden snail." Flutterwing drops her load quickly and turns about. A minute later, she meets the sprinting Ryudo, just as his steps start to falter. (Ryudo fails constitution save, gains a second level of exhaustion: speed halved and disadvantage on ability checks.) She lifts him up with her left arm and sprints back the other direction. "This is almost fun!" she says cheerfully.

Flutterwing quickly catches up with the party and loads all but Aldridge back up. "You've got the most functional legs at the moment," she says, smiling. "I'll see your legs again in a few minutes!" She grins and takes off, leaving Aldridge behind.

She runs for a few minutes until she nears the camp. She slows and sets her load down. "That flower sure has a kick to it!" (The effects of the flower have expired.)

The party waits a few minutes for Aldridge to appear.

(Poison saves for Westra: Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Pass, Fail (-3), Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Pass: A total of -7 max health. Westra is still poisoned.)

(Poison saves for Alwanzatar: Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Pass, Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Fail (-1), Pass, Pass, Pass: A total of -3 max health. Alwanzatar is still poisoned.)

(The rest of the party has 6 minutes worth of time to pass if they wish to do anything while Aldridge catches up. The clan is nearby, attending to the regular course of the day. The party is 390 feet from the camp. To get any closer without attracting notice will require stealth.)
Aldridge
player, 105 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 20:50
  • msg #391

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Okay," Aldridge gasps. "Good work. Go team, and all that. Let's... Let's go stealthily now. The village is right over there, and now would be a really good time not to be noticed." He indicates that everyone travel as quietly and unnoticeably as possible (Stealth 23). When they are within 300 feet of the village, he signals to Westra to begin Pass Without Trace, then directs the party in a route away from the camp, obscured by the trees.
Westra
player, 75 posts
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 22:03
  • msg #392

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Before they head to the village, Westra grabs some Snakefright she sees growing nearby. "This can make an antitoxin for our scorpion poisoning, but it needs an hour to steep once we are able to stop. In the meantime, I will patch up myself and Alwan as best I can." (Healer's kit - 5 hit points to Westra, 8 hit points to Alwan)

Once they are within 300 feet of the village, Westra casts Pass Without Trace (+10 to all Dex throws to all within 30 feet of Westra).
DM
GM, 110 posts
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 23:22
  • msg #393

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The party circles around, just out of sight of the villagers. They're not all that terribly stealthy, but Westra's spell seems to fix even the worst of their blunders.

They hunker down, waiting...

All of the sudden, from the other side of the village, a huge ashen bear bursts through the trees! The villagers start to scatter every which way, but the bear attacks with a speed and viciousness that nigh unto beggars belief.

All the young men in the camp are away on the hunt, so the women, old men, and children are left. Every single one of them takes up arms against the beast.

On the other side of the camp, a single figure withdraws rapidly, directly toward the party. His stature marks him as a Bear. He wears brown bearskin furs around his body and carries a warhammer and a rough stone shield. A moment ago both were stowed neatly on his back, but as quickly as the bear appeared, they seemed to leap unbidden into familiar hands. He seems conflicted as to whether he wishes to join the battle or withdraw.

(Combat will begin shortly, with or without the players. I must now stat out an entire village. I'll update when ready...)
Aldridge
player, 106 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 24 Jun 2015
at 23:58
  • msg #394

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge turns to Westra from behind the shrubbery. "How many 6-year-olds do you think you could take in a fight? Five, six?"

He receives a unified glare from the rest of the party as a response.

"Less than that? Okay."

He notices the barbarian. "Flutterwing, do you recognize him?"
Ethic
player, 1 post
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #395

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The barbarian hefts his hammer and begins to back warily away from the camp. [Language unknown: "Est oueen ceme pastto ngelpate ustric foas wittrance, wawil."]
This message was last edited by the player at 15:49, Fri 26 June 2015.
Flutterwing
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 17:13
  • msg #396

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing takes a good look at the barbarian approaching her. "His face is familiar. Definitely not from my tribe, but I may have seen him. I don't recall specifically, which means if we have met before, he did nothing to earn my notice. Still, his form does bear noticing, does it not?" She smiles and winks at Westra.
Westra
player, 76 posts
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 17:22
  • msg #397

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Was that an intentional pun?" Westra remarks, her face unsmiling.

"I do not like the idea of hiding in the bushes like a coward while women and children face this monster," she says to the group. "Maybe these people more readily allow their women to learn combat than mine do, but if they were that experienced, they would have gone with the hunting party, wouldn't they?"
Aldridge
player, 107 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 17:30
  • msg #398

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Well, I don't know about you all, but I want to find my drake. The sooner we can brew you some anti-venom, the better, and we still have another 30 minutes or so left to travel without leaving footprints." He looks to the melee. "I am curious to see this creature in action, though, in case it does walk away from here. But we are in no condition to take it. We can attempt to get help from the men, but I suspect this will be all over by then. Or, we can simply abandon the hunt, as I said before. Unless they cripple the monster, I realistically don't see combat as a option."

Aldridge looks to the wary Bear, and considers if he can get his attention without the attention of the rest of the villagers. He seems in well-enough condition; the party could use a bodyguard right about now.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:30, Thu 25 June 2015.
DM
GM, 111 posts
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 21:52
  • msg #399

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Before the village can react, the bear swipes at a young lady attending to the cookpot. "Grat!" an older man shouts, but he is too late. The bear swipes Grat from behind.

As his claw rips her back open, flames sprout from her body. Grat falls to the side, dead. Her infant son, still wrapped against her now burning body starts to scream. (The baby will burn to death if the fire is not extinguished next round.)

(End of surprise round.)

The village quickly arrays against the bear. Half of them grab bows and fire arrows, the other half use stone spears, axes, and hammers. The bear swipes at Buomaugh, an older man with a spear in his hand. The old man narrowly dodges both of the bear's claws and his bite.

Varthurg, a boy who can't have seen his fifth summer yet, runs to grab his infant brother from the burning body of his dead mother. He manages to rescue Bruul, but burns his leg in the process. He hobbles away toward a tent.

(End of round 1 for the village. Any players who wish to act, may. If not, post that you stay put. This is an individual decision, your characters do not have time to discuss at length. The party is 200' away from the commotion. Ethic is 100' away.)
Westra
player, 77 posts
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 22:34
  • msg #400

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I can't abide this any longer," Westra whispers. "Follow me or not. On your own head be it."

Westra transforms into a brown bear for the second time that day and bursts out of the bushes, sprinting towards the village (80/200 ft away).
Aldridge
player, 108 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 22:41
  • msg #401

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"No!" Aldridge whispers harshly, practically shrieking. "You're going to give us away!" He attempts to tackle the druid, but is quickly knocked aside by her transformation. "Dammit!" he whisper-shrieks. "Now they're going to know we led it here!" He looks helplessly at the rest of his companions.

"Clans live and die," he stated plainly. "I've seen enough death in my life that it doesn't faze me, but that doesn't me I'll hurry mine." He crouches back down to watch the new combatant enter the fray.
Alwanzatar
player, 64 posts
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 22:52
  • msg #402

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I had thought to have help in bringing down the beast, not to trigger a massacre." Alwan dashes after Westra. (60 feet)
Ethic
player, 2 posts
Thu 25 Jun 2015
at 23:47
  • msg #403

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic looks about him warily and continues to withdraw from the village. They have made it perfectly clear they want no interaction with him.
Airdsgainne
player, 32 posts
Fri 26 Jun 2015
at 15:25
  • msg #404

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Without a word, Airdsgainne dashes toward the village and the bear. Thrusting out an arm, he shouts a word of power and harrowing briers ripple out of the ground toward the bear, stopping as they reach its paws. (Spike Growth, 20 feet just reaching the bear, difficult terrain and 2d4 per square moved)
Ryudo
player, 43 posts
Fri 26 Jun 2015
at 21:34
  • msg #405

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

This is your plan‽” Ryudo says, incredulous. “The bear is scary, yes, but I don't call four-year-olds in for backup.” The Ostrich sprints off toward the ursine rampage, his legs still burning from the previous run. (Move 45' toward the bear.)
DM
GM, 112 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 15:19
  • msg #406

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing starts in with the rest of the party. “Why are there no warriors here?” Flutterwing is distressed and confused. (60' toward the bear.)

The bear continues his rampage, starting with a swipe that lands squarely on Buomaugh. The claw tears his pelvis in half, sending his leg flying. What remains of Buomaugh collapses in a heap on the ground, quietly burning.

The bear stands for a moment by the fire, surveying the area. He looks toward the “heroes” charging in. Deciding they are apparently not worth its attention, it turns toward Varthurg carrying Bruul. Yotul and her son Burub, however, step in the way, giving Varthurg a moment to escape.

The bear steps toward the pear and bites Yotul on the left arm, but not mortally. Her son isn't quite so lucky. The bear's claw rips through his intestines. His flaming form falls into the snow, dead.

Varthurg escapes with his brother to the edge of the village. He sets Burub down and a cold expression comes over the four-year-old's face. He grabs a bundle of small axes, the heaviest he can lift, and starts toward the bear.

Spears and axes from the clan rain down on the bear. Most bounce harmlessly off, but a few seem to leave a mark, if only a light one. (7 damage from spears, 4 damage from ice spikes.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:39, Mon 29 June 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 65 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 15:30
  • msg #407

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan slows his pace, but continues to approach. He fits a stone to his sling as he does so, depending more on luck than skill as he launches it across such a great distance. (Approach to 110 feet, 12 vs. AC, 4 damage if hit)
Airdsgainne
player, 33 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 15:44
  • msg #408

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne continues dashing toward the bear.
Aldridge
player, 109 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 16:15
  • msg #409

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"It had to go after the infant first," Aldridge mutters to himself. "Bunch of bleeding hearts. About to be literally." He would have rathered the village warriors actually be present for the bear attack, but karma comes on its own time.

Aldridge can't help but laugh at his magic-reliant allies, particularly the sorcerer's thrown pebble. He also can't help but laugh at the startled barbarian as he is caught off guard by the rushing bear from his other side. With their luck, Westra would die at the hands of the defenders rather than the bear.

"Idiots," he mutters. Worst of all, they had to approach from the wrong side of the village. If any of the villagers had the foresight to check their tracks... Aldridge kicks himself for suggesting they stay and watch instead of continuing on to find the hunters.

The onslaught of moderately-capable warriors appears to offer some cushion, however. Maybe death wasn't the inevitable conclusion for all involved. Aldridge sees the youngster return to avenge his mother, and can't help but feel somewhat protective of the walking dead. With a resigned sigh, he breaks his cover and sprints after his suicidal compatriots. (60' toward village)

"[Language unknown: In, Wi]," he yells to Ethic. "[Language unknown: Menwerpre lin ivwh i elsti, comatiall k?]"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:21, Mon 29 June 2015.
Ethic
player, 3 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 16:31
  • msg #410

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

[Language unknown: "Lo pa ecal tiothuant. She a ent neati heroulson ichshehat a isreol k ard?"] Ethic yells back.
Aldridge
player, 110 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #411

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: St ac proen reareaoun utosdi, wh stun un iveinelar?]" Aldridge responds. "[Language unknown: E porohe po neil thi iowi sehoinai conncemen ie e ainternteher. Vorverent estartrea adutnc, i thu iv fiisek admonget of, we k intere ek dickac ouint ntisheineday si stantilat Etechoecpa. Witiveameersrutard, ndha'wiri tick p whi astesster pa stnibe ol allmenart osil ad ntutai encundore atilarandone'atewas. Ti er wil atmome, ounarever any oumesi eialun?]"
Westra
player, 78 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 17:43
  • msg #412

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra continues running toward the bear, careful to avoid Airsdgainne's spikes (160/200ft).
Ethic
player, 4 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 18:27
  • msg #413

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic stops his steady withdrawal. [Language unknown: Orthasvor. Ion Somithsheoerone wa lahire er osrout. Foiou thei wewema hait er onill.], he said.
Ryudo
player, 44 posts
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 18:49
  • msg #414

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo continues to advance toward the bear and its victims.
Aldridge
player, 111 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 18:50
  • msg #415

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge takes another look at his sprinting team mates. "[Language unknown: Losale Ta wiluretra erof'neet dialfi o lat men miunna ardsonant tha thathaereres, p ssekoftefo forel inth'ntho m itndurle wasmanerseve we beheil ica. Na hi urur com witnotrat vir ieitol k, tiekic. No ant notouswhe ill mi trweon, isut tha ce n ainithons niour fi thitinundain u iv. Ilpl, undss a ac Erethi'earatiher ekmani ndck en, A ut earcomwit adin arereasom tinatieve din iv astcomallthaoul a hou ine ingproughint fomi virbletheess liforo uslar.]"
Flutterwing
Mon 29 Jun 2015
at 22:48
  • msg #416

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing continues to run toward the bear. (120/200)
DM
GM, 113 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 17:37
  • msg #417

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear swipes at Yotul, catching her in the side. She falls unconscious to the ground as she catches fire. She is still breathing, albeit shallowly, as she burns.

The bear, at the edge of the spikes, steps out of them and charges a small cluster of spear-throwing women. The swift Bulfim manages to dodge the bear's bite, but her pregnant form makes it impossible to avoid the flammiferous claw. It catches her in the side and knocks her, flaming, to the ground, unconscious, but not dead.

The rest of the village continues it's assault. (6 damage from the village, 2 damage from spikes.)

From beneath a covering in the west part of the camp, a skull floats out, wreathed in bright green flames. It fires two flaming rays from its eyes, each hitting the bear squarely on the side… to no effect.


(It is now the party's turn.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:10, Tue 30 June 2015.
Westra
player, 79 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 18:04
  • msg #418

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra runs around the left side of Airdsgainne's ring of spikes and comes to a halt 30 feet from the bear, preparing to attack.
Airdsgainne
player, 34 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 18:07
  • msg #419

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne continues running toward the bear, and with another shout, the briers recede while a column of burning light envelops the bear (Moonbeam; 2d10 damage, half on con save; if the bear is shapeshifter, save with disadvantage, on fail unforms and can't reform in light)
Aldridge
player, 112 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 18:29
  • msg #420

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge jogs another 30 feet toward Ethic, stopping long enough to half-heartedly fire a long arrow at the raging bear. The arrow arcs magnificently... And pierces the tender meat of the cookpot's stew (Nat1).

"[Language unknown: Rut e omebe oneweress eautheers, houlinred?]" Aldridge says to Ethic. "[Language unknown: Si ha inekoryin les cheril, p il k stecmo? An k eevir i men theallver sheessshe tiiltaweer Ti eau o ingdaylin.]"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:29, Tue 30 June 2015.
Ethic
player, 5 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 18:39
  • msg #421

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Muttering every curse he's learned in his journeys, Ethic begins running toward the bear shaped mayhem.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 18:48, Tue 30 June 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 66 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 20:00
  • msg #422

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan closes to 80 feet, and fires another stone in futility.
Ryudo
player, 45 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 20:19
  • msg #423

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo continues to move towards the bear. (135/200)
Flutterwing
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 21:12
  • msg #424

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing continues her charge. (180/200)
This message was last updated by the GM at 21:12, Tue 30 June 2015.
DM
GM, 115 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 21:16
  • msg #425

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear completely ignores Airdsgainne's moonbeam. The moonbeam has no effect whatsoever on the bear.

Yotul and Bulfim continue to burn on the ground. Durgat, a young lady several summers yet from a mothering age, bends down to extinguish the flaming woman beside her. The bear seizes the opportunity and swipes the head clean off her body. Her head catches fire as it sales across the village. Her younger brother, Winug, steps over her headless form to complete her task. Bulfim is extinguished, but not stable.

Shagar, the mother of the late Durgat, prods the bear with her spear defensively, trying to keep some distance that might give her family a chance. She dodges the bear's bite and takes a solid hit to her hip, but is still standing. She puts out the flames quickly, before they take hold.

The rest of the village continues the assault, but many of them are emboldened by the foreign warriors coming to assist them. A roar ripples through the camp and many of the ersatz warriors charge into melee. (6 damage from the village)

(It is now the party's turn.)
Aldridge
player, 113 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 21:18
  • msg #426

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge, decidedly in the back of the pack, shrugs his shoulders in resignation and sprints toward the bear, full charge (150/205 feet). "Let's get this over with," he mutters.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:20, Tue 30 June 2015.
Westra
player, 80 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 21:48
  • msg #427

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra rushes forward, stopping five feet from the bear and slashing out with her claws across the bear's back (attack 25, damage 11). She leans forward and bites at the bear's flank as well (attack 11, damage 9).
This message was last edited by the player at 21:59, Tue 30 June 2015.
Flutterwing
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 21:49
  • msg #428

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing stops and draws a five-pound stone sphere from her pouch. She tosses it lightly in the air and then casts a spell. The stone flies toward the bear, striking it solidly on the flank. (5 damage)
Westra
player, 81 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 22:04
  • msg #429

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Now that she is up closer to the bear, Westra sniffs at it to try and ascertain anything about it: how hardy it is, whether it's actually a bear, etc. (perception 13).
Alwanzatar
player, 67 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 22:20
  • msg #430

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan continues to advance (range 50 feet). He loads a stone into the sling, a gleam of anger setting his eyes alight as he witnesses the slaughter. He takes careful aim, hoping to knock the bear senseless. He even allows himself a slight smile, confident that this time, the shot will fly true. He twirls the sling, and lets fly...and narrowly misses his own foot. (6 vs. AC)
Ethic
player, 6 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 22:45
  • msg #431

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic continues to approach. (ends 40' from bear)
Ryudo
player, 46 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 22:47
  • msg #432

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo continues to approach. (180/200)
DM
GM, 116 posts
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 23:12
  • msg #433

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Yotul continues burning, but stops breathing. Winug, however, manages to stabilize Bulfim and pull her a short distance away from the bear.

The bear itself is hemmed in on all edges, surrounded by the tribe and Westra. It swipes at Homraz (the wife of the late Buomaugh) and Westra, hitting both easily. Homraz falls dead to the ground, her body burning. Westra is still standing, but the smell of burning fur joins the smell of burning flesh in the air. (12 damage, on fire. Westra will take 1d6 fire damage at the top of each turn. The fire can be extinguished by spending an action rolling on the ground while prone. Another character can spend an action to roll a prone character as well.) The bear bites at Quordud, a lad almost old enough to hunt on his own. Quordud falls unconscious and bleeding on the ground.

The village continues to stab at and hurl spears at the bear. (5 damage)

The flaming green skull continues to shoot beams of fire that have no effect.

The bear roars a terrible roar and breathes a mighty grey cloud of gas that fills the air within 10'. (Westra and save-failing villagers: slowed for 1 round. Also, 3 dexterity damage.) The gas dissipates as quickly as it arrives. (The air is clear for those approaching next round.)

(It is the party's turn.)
Aldridge
player, 114 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 30 Jun 2015
at 23:16
  • msg #434

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge takes a few steps forward (45' to bear) and begins to sing a chant in overtone. The bizarre melody is unheard by all but the ashen bear. (Dissonant Whispers, 10 psychic damage vs. Wisdom. On fail, must immediately use its reaction to move away. On success, half damage and no fear.) Unfortunately, the bear seems to shrug off the song as easily as any other spell.

"Well, that didn't work," he says with resignation. "Alwan, try force damage! The rocks seemed to hurt it, see if a missile can bypass its resistance!"

Aldridge takes a second look at the undead combatant.  Even if the skull was doing little to no damage, it was still easily the second-most powerful combatant in the fight. Even though it appears to be on their side, its mere existence clearly speaks of an evil source in their presence. Aldridge allows his curiosity to turn his attention to its point of origin. (Uses rest of movement to move toward the tent, 45' from tent.)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Mon 06 July 2015.
Westra
player, 82 posts
Wed 1 Jul 2015
at 14:24
  • msg #435

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra ignores the fire for the moment (3 damage) and lets loose another furious claw attack, but the pain makes her miss (attack 11). She bites at the bear's flank once again (attack 7), but misses that as well. Roaring with pain and frustration, she slowly turns to run as far away from the bear as she can to tend to her flaming fur and skin.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:41, Wed 01 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 115 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 2 Jul 2015
at 16:28
  • msg #436

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge, seeing the bear attempting an attack of opportunity on the fleeing Westra-bear, shouts out, "Hey, Fluffykins! You smell of burnt hair, and you're a walking pun! Which means you're UNBEARABLE!" (Cutting Words (-2) against bear's attack check.)
Alwanzatar
player, 68 posts
Sun 5 Jul 2015
at 21:00
  • msg #437

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I don't have that sort of spell -- not that it looks likely to work!" Alwan responds to Aldridge. He finally arrives at a reasonable range to the bear (range 30 feet), and looses another stone. (21 vs. AC, 5 rock to head damage)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:00, Sun 05 July 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 35 posts
Mon 6 Jul 2015
at 18:29
  • msg #438

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne continues running slowly toward the bear, slinging a stone in its general direction (Sling, attack 4 damage 4).
Ryudo
player, 47 posts
Mon 6 Jul 2015
at 20:54
  • msg #439

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo, already weakened from the pursuit, moves to help pull Quordud from the fight.  He pulls him out of melee with the bear.
Ethic
player, 7 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2015
at 17:19
  • msg #440

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Roaring violently (Rage entered), Ethic continues sprinting toward the bear. Pulling a hammer from his belt, he stops and hurls it at the beast. (7 to hit; 5 dmg)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:08, Tue 07 July 2015.
DM
GM, 118 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2015
at 18:26
  • msg #441

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing pulls out her massive maul and steps up to the beast. She lands a solid blow against the bear's solid head. (5 damage)

The party assaults the bear with everything they can think of, but most of their missiles bounce harmlessly off the bear's hide and Westra's claws don't even come close enough to the bear to scare it, much less hurt it. Alwanzatar's stone, however, manages to make a small mark. (2 damage) As Westra retreats, the bear swipes at her, but doesn't land a blow.

The bear sees the quickly approaching party and redoubles its efforts. A claw tears open Durgat the Elder's chest, extinguishing her life and igniting her body. Another claw swings toward Shagar, the daughter-in-law of the late Durgat the Elder. She's fast, but can't cheat death twice. Her wounded hip slows her down and the bear tears off her entire leg this time. She falls to the ground, dead and burning. The bear bites at the nearby Kegigoth, a seven-year-old boy with a spear. He picks the boy up in his terrible teeth and swallows the middle half of him. The boy's torso and legs fall lifeless to the ground.

The village continues its assault, as does the Flameskull. The Flameskull's beams of fire are probing the bear, trying to find a weak spot. (5 village damage)

(It is now the party's turn.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:39, Wed 08 July 2015.
Westra
player, 83 posts
Tue 7 Jul 2015
at 18:40
  • msg #442

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra runs a further 20 feet while still burning (6 damage) and drops to roll on the ground, letting out a groan of relief as she extinguishes the fire. She begins to drop back behind the rest of the group. She won't be much use any more as a bear, but she'll hold off the poison coursing through her human self as long as she can.
Aldridge
player, 116 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 7 Jul 2015
at 19:04
  • msg #443

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Westra, fall further back!" Aldridge barks. "Flutterwing, guard Westra! The INSTANT she returns to her humanoid form, summon the water spirit to dispel her poison."

Despite the distance the warriors might be from the camp, Aldridge attempts to summon them. Even if they don't arrive until after the battle, they should still return to camp as soon as possible to them. He casts a string of dancing lights 90' tall, with two bright red orbs circling frantically at the top. He maintains concentration as he continues his approach toward the skull's tent (15' away).
Airdsgainne
player, 36 posts
Wed 8 Jul 2015
at 17:56
  • msg #444

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne charges into the melee, his scimitar outstretched. He connects with the bear, but doesn't penetrate it's thick hide. (14 to hit)
Flutterwing
Wed 8 Jul 2015
at 18:04
  • msg #445

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing bellows back at Aldridge, “I'll keep that in mind. Priority-wise, I've got some hot stuff to deal with right now, so I'm kinda focused on the bear necessities.” A young boy, Zilug, takes the unintelligable shouting to be a battle cry and follows suit, “BEAR NECESSITIES! BEAR NECESSITIES!”

The Bear swings her maul again at the bear, grazing its shoulder. (2 damage)
Aldridge
player, 117 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 8 Jul 2015
at 18:18
  • msg #446

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Just don't forget about our troubles and our strifes," Aldridge responds. Immediately, a little tune begins to form in his head, a little happier than the current situation. He mentally files it away to elaborate on later.
Alwanzatar
player, 69 posts
Wed 8 Jul 2015
at 23:29
  • msg #447

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires off another volley, then steps backward (range 45 feet, 13 vs. AC, 7 damage in case of hit). "This is hopeless! Aldridge, tell the villagers to scatter!"
Aldridge
player, 119 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 13:59
  • msg #448

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"What gave you the impression that I learned Blood Tongue in the past six hours?" Aldridge huffs. "Westra was our translator to just one of the whole tribe, and she's currently a BEAR."

Aldridge attempts to wave some of the villagers toward him away from the fray. He scans the crowd for the wise woman. We cannot afford to lose her Aldridge thinks. He motions to her, trying to get her attention and away from the bear.
Ryudo
player, 48 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 16:10
  • msg #449

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo runs into a nearby tent where he thinks medical supplies would be found.
Ethic
player, 8 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 18:46
  • msg #450

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic slips his shield onto his back and with both hands and a mighty roar swings his hammer at the bear. (Reckless Assault: 13 to hit; 14 dmg)
DM
GM, 119 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 19:44
  • msg #451

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear exhales a terrible cloud once more. The Terrorclaw cough and wheeze, clearly afflicted by the nubiferous beast. Flutterwing, Ethic, and Airdsgainne suffer the full effects as well. (Slowed for 1 round; 3 dex damage)

The bear swats at Flutterwing, but she deflects the claw with her shield. It bites at Vlog, an older man that seems quite capable with his axe. Vlog is not so lucky. He is knocked unconscious and bleeding by the bite.

A claw winds its way toward Ethic, who has given no thought to his own defence. It strikes his chest and Ethic bursts into flame. (15 damage; on fire: 1d6 damage per round until an action is taken to extinguish it.)

The Flameskull determines that his existing vantage is not working and moves much closer to the bear (10'), continuing to pelt it with fire. It howls in frustration.

The village continues its assault. (6 damage)
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:07, Thu 09 July 2015.
Westra
player, 84 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 20:15
  • msg #452

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra concentrates to heal a small amount (+10 hit points) and runs to the fallen Vlog, grabbing his tunic in her teeth and dragging him out of the range of the other bear.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:07, Thu 09 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 120 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 20:29
  • msg #453

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Oh boy," Aldridge sighs as the barbarian takes a hit straight to the chest. He fires an arrow at the bear (9 vs. AC), but the thick fur seems to absorb the impact.

"Casters!" Aldridge commands. "Distract the bear! We can't attack it, but if we can put it at a disadvantage, maybe we can prevent it from hitting anyone else! Alwan, Westra, and Airdsgainne, that means you!"

Aldridge arrives in front of the tent, taking a quick peak inside. He is surprised by the scorched accommodations.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Thu 09 July 2015.
Ryudo
player, 49 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 20:37
  • msg #454

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo remains in the tent for just a few seconds before running back toward Quordod carrying a number of items.  In the tent he found three healers kits, 8 doses of antitoxin, 2 moonberry gourds, 2 blue-green gourds of unknown contents, and two sturdy stretchers.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:38, Thu 09 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 70 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 21:35
  • msg #455

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Aldridge...Westra...whatever! You can't expect me to remember such details in the midst of this!" Alwan snaps. He then focuses on the true target of the irritation: the bear. Alwan shrieks an incomprehensible stream of expletives. (7 Deception to taunt) "Don't surround it! I'll keep yelling and try to lure it away. That won't work well if it has to carve its way through you!"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:38, Thu 09 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 121 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 22:02
  • msg #456

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Alwan, let the Skull take the brunt of the attack!" Aldridge says with conviction over what he just saw. "It's the leader of the clan. Let it lead!"

Aldridge's brain comes up with another crazy idea. "We still have two flowers of Mammoth's Blood. Flutterwing, in the mood for another trip? If you can grapple the bear under the spirit of the Mammoth, we'll all be able to hit it! Someone feed it to her!"
Airdsgainne
player, 37 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 22:06
  • msg #457

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne shakes his head, grabs a flower and tosses it down Flutterwing's gullet. His tiny form climbs down off the giantess as the flower takes effect.
Flutterwing
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 22:16
  • msg #458

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing smiles, “This silly bear isn't really all that bad. Or maybe that's the flower. Either way, I've got this.”

Flutterwing stows her weapon and reaches forth toward the bear with her right arm. She grabs it by the back of the neck and grips it as hard as she can. Try as it might, the bear doesn't manage to avoid her grip. She holds her shield in her left hand, trying to defend herself from the bear's maw while forcing it to hold still. (24 Althetics vs. 21 Athletics to initiate grapple.)
Ethic
player, 9 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 22:28
  • msg #459

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic hefts his hammer back into a single hand and grabs his shield. He swings, but wildly, as though he can't see the bear. (9 to attack)
DM
GM, 121 posts
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 23:13
  • msg #460

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear ignores both Alwanzatar's ramblings and Flutterwing's grip for the moment and strikes out at Flutterwing. Her shield blocks its bite. It also swings at Ethic and Zagorim. Ethic blocks the attack, but Zagorim is far too slow. The instant it becomes clear that Zagorim is about to die, Alwanzatar reacts and throws a shield up, deflecting the claw.

The village continues to stab at the bear, largely from melee, now. (6 damage)

The Flameskull attempts to bombard the creature's face, but even this change of strategy produces no effects.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:05, Fri 10 July 2015.
Flutterwing
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 23:17
  • msg #461

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing continues grip the beast, but throws all her weight into forcing it to the ground. The bear is caught off guard and it's face grinds into the snow. Flutterwing chortles gleefully, “That ought to cool you off.”

(The bear is now prone and grappled by Flutterwing. Melee attacks against it will have advantage next round, but not this one.)
Aldridge
player, 122 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 9 Jul 2015
at 23:31
  • msg #462

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge approaches the melee coolly (15' closer). He carefully fires an arrow. He misses the villagers and Flutterwing, but he misses the bear as well (13 vs AC).
Westra
player, 85 posts
Fri 10 Jul 2015
at 17:58
  • msg #463

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra moves until she is 30 feet away from the bear and readies to attack, should Flutterwing's grip on the beast continue to hold.
Ryudo
player, 50 posts
Fri 10 Jul 2015
at 19:21
  • msg #464

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo makes it back to Quordod and stabilizes her.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:21, Fri 10 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 71 posts
Fri 10 Jul 2015
at 21:36
  • msg #465

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Seeing the bear prone, Alwan reverts to attempting to stone it to death. For once, his aim is true, delivering a stinging strike to the tailbone. Even so, Alwan is distressed by the apparent lack of concern from the bear. (25 vs. AC, 10 crit damage)
Airdsgainne
player, 38 posts
Mon 13 Jul 2015
at 19:35
  • msg #466

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne hacks at the bear with his scimitar (attack 20, damage 7).
Ethic
player, 10 posts
Tue 14 Jul 2015
at 20:10
  • msg #467

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic presses the bear harder swinging his mighty hammer against it. (23 to hit; 11 Damage)
DM
GM, 122 posts
Wed 15 Jul 2015
at 17:48
  • msg #468

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear struggles with all it's might against Flutterwing's grip, but she holds firm. As it writhes in the Wanderer's grip, a cloud of familiar poison fills the space around it. Flutterwing and Airdsgainne cough, but manage to choke through the worst of it. Ethic and most of the village is not so lucky. (3 dex damage; slowed 1 round) Gonk, a tall middle-aged woman with two daughters and a son behind her, falls to the ground, motionless. A young girl, Mor, succumbs likewise to the poison cloud.

The village takes every advantage of the bear's position, stabbing it readily with spears from all angles. (12 damage)

The flameskull continues it's assault in vain.
Flutterwing
Wed 15 Jul 2015
at 17:51
  • msg #469

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing continues to maintain the grip, pressing her shield hard against the bear's face. (Dodge action.)
Westra
player, 86 posts
Wed 15 Jul 2015
at 18:07
  • msg #470

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Seizing her chance, Westra rushes in and bites savagely at the grappled bear (attack 25 (crit), damage 16), then spins and lashes out with her front claws (attack 22, damage 11), growling fiercely.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Wed 15 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 123 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 15 Jul 2015
at 18:20
  • msg #471

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge squints, aiming the next arrow for the bear's eye. The arrow sails past Flutterwing's grip, sinking into its shoulder with a still satisfying "thunk" (19 vs AC, 7 damage).
Ryudo
player, 51 posts
Thu 16 Jul 2015
at 15:35
  • msg #472

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

With the bear pinned and Quordod stabilized , Ryudo runs over and swings twice.   The first misses, but the second connects (12 to AC; 18 to AC, 7 damage)
Alwanzatar
player, 72 posts
Thu 16 Jul 2015
at 17:24
  • msg #473

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan fires again, but his luck is worse this time. (12 vs AC, 6 damage)
Ethic
player, 11 posts
Mon 20 Jul 2015
at 20:18
  • msg #474

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic rears back and continues to forge a weapon of pain on the anvil of the bear's hide. (25 to Hit - CRIT - 11 DMG)
DM
GM, 124 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 17:02
  • msg #475

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne swings at the bear, but his scimitar doesn't break though the creature's thick hide.

The bear is starting to look genuinely injured and perhaps a little scared. Its coal red eyes flicker and look out toward the forest, searching for something. It pauses, then attempts to break Flutterwing's grapple. Her grapple holds firm and the bear struggles impotently, unable to even get it's feet beneath it.

The Flameskull continues to barrage the bear with meaningless fire.

The village continues to stab and assault the bear. (12 damage)

(Alwanzatar fails his poison save. -2 max hit points.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:21, Tue 21 July 2015.
Ethic
player, 12 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 17:10
  • msg #476

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic continues pounding on the bear (20 to hit: 6 DMG)
[Language unknown: Un en ut oneyinare eauessder k n atevre een?]
Aldridge
player, 124 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 17:11
  • msg #477

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge spares a glance toward the forest as well, but sees nothing but trees (Perception 9). He strafes in the opposite direction (30') and fires another carefully-aimed arrow toward the beast (14 with advantage), just missing.
Ryudo
player, 52 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 17:21
  • msg #478

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo swings twice more, connecting on the second. (9 to AC; 23 to AC, 6 damage)
Westra
player, 87 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 17:53
  • msg #479

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra also looks toward the forest, scenting the air for anything that could be meaningful to the bear or the rest of the party (Perception 11). Then, she bites (attack 17, damage 8) and slashes (attack 17, damage 9) at the grappled bear once again.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:01, Tue 21 July 2015.
Flutterwing
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 18:08
  • msg #480

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing continues to hold the bear against the snow.
Alwanzatar
player, 73 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 18:18
  • msg #481

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan, encouraged by the bear's condition despite his own minimal contribution, lobs another rock. He narrowly misses his own foot. (8 vs. AC)
Airdsgainne
player, 39 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 18:22
  • msg #482

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne continues to hack at the bear. (19 to hit; 6 damage)
DM
GM, 125 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 18:47
  • msg #483

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The bear stops trying to break the grapple and turns its attention toward breaking the grappler. Flutterwing blocks both claw attacks, but the bear manages to bite her leg. (23 damage)

The choking cloud appears once more around the bear. (Ethic, Airdsgainne, and the Westrabear take 3 dex damage and are slowed for 1 round.) Sharog, Shelur, Duma the Elder, Bogdub, Vagan, Xugagug, Gluronk, Durz, Ghak, Mor, Kegigoth, Dul, Lazgar, Zahgorim, and Borgakha fall to the ground, motionless. In the mix, the party can't help but note that Gluronk is pregnant and Ghak has two motionless babies tied to her torso. Borgakha is the druid that helped the party when they first arrived, as well.

The nine remaining members of the village refuse to give up. Every man, woman, and child realizes that everyone will surely die if any do not fight. (4 damage)

The flameskull shrieks as the villagers fall to the ground. It charges the bear, bashing into it as fast as it can. (1 damage)
Aldridge
player, 125 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 18:54
  • msg #484

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge squints into the forest (11), but still doesn't see anything. He fires another arrow, which misses the target as well (15 vs AC).
Alwanzatar
player, 74 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 19:18
  • msg #485

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Shocked at the mass death, and frustrated by his own ineffectual attacks, Alwanzatar shouts his rage, hurling invectives at the wounded bear in the hopes of cowing it to total submission. (17 intimidation)
Ryudo
player, 53 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 19:27
  • msg #486

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo attacks twice again, but neither attack is effective
Ethic
player, 13 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 19:54
  • msg #487

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Marveling at the staying power of the bear, Ethic raises his hammer again and brings it down with a meaty thud against the bear's hide. (19 to hit: 5 dmg)
From behind his shield Ethic chants in a low-voice,"[Language unknown: Oveavetha ro, naulou comhi omearetio. Weeith ll er wausng, At llacss men.]"
Westra
player, 88 posts
Tue 21 Jul 2015
at 20:30
  • msg #488

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Roaring in frustration at the fact that the bear is still alive in spite of everything, Westra bites (attack 25 (crit), damage 11) and slashes (attack 20, damage 9) once again. She also does a quick medicine inspection as a bear to try and determine how much longer it will actually take to kill this beast (Medicine 14).
This message was last edited by the player at 20:39, Tue 21 July 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 40 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 14:48
  • msg #489

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne swings viciously at the bear again. (Attack Critical, Damage 6)
DM
GM, 126 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:08
  • msg #490

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The mighty bear succumbs to its injuries, unconscious and dying. The villagers stop attacking for a moment to begin to tend to the wounded and unconscious.

The flameskull screeches in anger at the bear. It commands something in Blood-tongue, and the villagers pause for a moment, puzzled. It screeches again and a few reluctantly raise weary weapons toward the party, still unsure of whether they wish to use them.

(The party has time for speech and short conversation with the villagers. Any substantive actions post-combat should wait for the next real round, including checking on wounded, the bear, the forest, as well as any attacks or spells. Diplomacy, Intimidate, Bluff or other speech checks may be appropriate. If you do not speak Blood-tongue, you can attempt to communicate simple ideas with an Intelligence check. Complex ideas will require a higher Intelligence check.)
Ryudo
player, 54 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:11
  • msg #491

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo ignores the angry villagers and begins moving as though to help the nearest downed Terrorclaw.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:18, Wed 22 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 126 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:35
  • msg #492

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge sheathes his bow behind him and allows the Dancing Lights to die. All of his survival instincts tell him that it's time to leave. However, the frightened small child hiding in the tent within a couple steps of him compels him to stay. He decides that any sudden moves, including a word of warning to his colleagues, would need to be delayed.

Aldridge shoots a glare at the skull and warily eyes the confused villagers before crouching down to offer a sympathetic hand to the lad.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:39, Wed 22 July 2015.
Westra
player, 89 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:39
  • msg #493

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra remains a bear just in case the villagers decide to attack her. However, she sits back on her haunches and grabs her back paws with her front paws, rocking back and forth and generally being as adorable as possible.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:54, Wed 22 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 76 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:43
  • msg #494

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan attempts to somehow communicate through gestures that the party had no hostile intent, and to point out the great effort and risk the party went to in order to slay the bear. He finds the task rather difficult, however. (7 persuasion, 7 intelligence).
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:46, Wed 22 July 2015.
DM
GM, 127 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:48
  • msg #495

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The villagers are easily swayed, as Alwanzatar's actions match his words.

(This begins the next round. The villagers appear unlikely to attack this round, although the flameskull circling above appears to be yelling something at them. You can take actions.)
Ethic
player, 15 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:52
  • msg #496

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic drops his hammer into it's hook on his belt and slings his shield on his back. His chest is heaving from the effort of the run and fight. He takes the time to examine the beast at his feet. (Nature:21)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:08, Wed 22 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 77 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:53
  • msg #497

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan scrutinizes the flaming skull (11 arcana) and its relationship to the villagers (5 insight).
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:01, Wed 22 July 2015.
Westra
player, 90 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:54
  • msg #498

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

While performing her circus act, Westra does a quick medicine check of the unconscious Terrorclaws around her, to determine if she can help them at all once back in human form (23 (Nat20)).
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:16, Wed 22 July 2015.
Ryudo
player, 55 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 16:54
  • msg #499

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo moves to the nearest Terrorclaw and tries to stabilize them.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:16, Wed 22 July 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 41 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:03
  • msg #500

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne grabs Aldridge by the collar and pulls him down to look him in the eye. He states coldly, "That is the last time I follow a plan of yours without knowing what it is."

He shoves Aldridge backwards onto a child's eviscerated torso, and walks off to tend the wounded. (Medicine check 17)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:19, Wed 22 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 127 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:23
  • msg #501

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge stands back up and dusts himself off, scowling at the gnome. "Save your petty outrage when we're actually out of danger. Or have you noticed that the battle might not be over?" He takes a few disgusted forward steps away from skull, keeping a peripheral eye on it over his shoulder.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:24, Wed 22 July 2015.
Airdsgainne
player, 42 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:25
  • msg #502

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

After inspecting a few bodies, Airdsgainne shouts over to Westra, "The gas is paralysing! They're not dead. Do you have antitoxin?" He begins giving rescue breathing to the gassed villagers.
Aldridge
player, 128 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:33
  • msg #503

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: N commi oneus n toulpano, En thewitnte tataos asss ntiticday caave nti i o iveintshe lourca,]" Aldridge mutters to himself. He continues walking away from the battle field, checking to see if anything is approaching. His unease about the screaming skull interferes with his analysis (Perception 4).
Westra
player, 91 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:38
  • msg #504

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra points a claw at Ryudo and grunts in answer to Airdsgainne's question. She gets up and jogs over to Ryudo, turning reluctantly back into a human as she goes. "Can I get a few of those vials of antitoxin you found? We need as many of them on our side as possible."
Ryudo
player, 56 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:41
  • msg #505

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryduo goes through the items he had found in the tent, displaying 8 doses of antitoxin.  "Here, you know how to use them better than I."
DM
GM, 128 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:49
  • msg #506

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Roll call for the village:

Healthy combatants:
  • Auhgan, 9yo boy
  • Shagar, 28yo woman
  • Rulfim, 49yo woman
  • Mor, 28yo woman
  • Zilug, 9yo boy
  • Borgakh, 8yo girl
  • Bruigig, 6yo boy
  • Winug, 9yo boy


Healthy children:
  • Lash, 2yo girl
  • Opeghat, 3yo boy
  • Dubok, 3yo boy
  • Zarfu, 3yo boy
  • Krugorim, 1yo boy
  • Garzong, 4yo boy
  • Trilug, 2yo boy
  • Shomdud, 1yo boy
  • Varthurg, 4yo boy (non-threatening burns from rescuing Burul)
  • Burul, infant boy
  • Ragash, 1yo girl
  • Hugolm, 1yo boy


Unconscious:
  • Vlog, 55yo man, bleeding out
  • Quordud, 14yo boy, stabilized
  • Bulfim, 16yo girl, stabilized (pregnant)


Paralyzed:
  • Gonk, 31yo woman
  • Sharog, 11yo girl
  • Shelur, 8yo girl
  • Mor, 10yo girl
  • Duma the Elder, 48yo man
  • Bogdub, 13yo girl
  • Vagan, 9yo boy
  • Xugagug, 50yo man
  • Gluronk, 18yo girl (pregnant)
  • Durz, 14yo girl (wearing druidic holy symbol)
  • Ghak, 15yo girl
  • Kegigoth, 12yo boy
  • Dul, 10yo boy
  • Lazgar, 63yo woman
  • Zahgorim, 27yo man
  • Borgahka, 72yo woman (wearing druidic holy symbol, previously healed Ryudo)
  • Bor, 1yo girl (worn by Ghak)
  • Ugak, infant girl (worn by Ghak)



Dead:
  • Shagar, 30yo woman: leg torn off, burned to death
  • Durgat, 11yo girl: decapitated, flaming head sent flying
  • Durgat, 50yo woman: torso ripped open, burned to death
  • Kegigoth, 7yo boy: bit in half
  • Homraz, 48yo woman: burned to death
  • Buomaugh, 51yo man: dismembered, burned to death
  • Yotul, 28yo woman: burned to death
  • Burub, 13yo girl: disemboweled, burned to death
  • Grat, 19yo girl: burned to death, infant rescued from corpse

This message was last edited by the GM at 23:11, Wed 22 July 2015.
DM
GM, 129 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 17:56
  • msg #507

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing immediately carries out Aldridge's instruction, dropping her shield and curing Westra of poison. (Westra is cured of poison, but the penalty to hp remains. Anything that removes a level of exhaustion will restore one hit die+con mod of max hp.)
Aldridge
player, 129 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:03
  • msg #508

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Good work, Flutterwing," Aldridge says. "Actually, if you wouldn't mind, go ahead and club the sleeping beast upside the head, just to be certain it doesn't surprise us."

Aldridge also sings a few begrudging healing words for the party druid, as well (+6 health).
DM
GM, 130 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:07
  • msg #509

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The villagers, a few at a time, appear to decide that they are not going to attack a party that is helping them, skull or no skull. The flameskull appears to be getting impatient, however. The surviving villagers stand back from the party, as though they are afraid to associate with them.
Westra
player, 92 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:11
  • msg #510

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra runs over to the old druid woman and uses a vial of antitoxin to stabilize her.
Aldridge
player, 130 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:14
  • msg #511

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge immediately tenses. He is glad that the villagers appreciate the rest of the party's help, but their instincts sets his instincts on edge. He takes the bow in hand and stares down the monster as he takes a few more steps away from the skull. "Flutterwing, belay that order and put the bear between you and the skull!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:15, Wed 22 July 2015.
Ryudo
player, 57 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:16
  • msg #512

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I think the skull is about to attack.  Be ready.  Don't attack first or else it might be taken as hostile by the villagers."  Ryudo says quietly as he attempts to help other injured.  "Does anyone know anything about it's origin?"
Aldridge
player, 131 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:26
  • msg #513

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"It's a free flameskull," Aldridge explains, keeping his eye firmly on the monster and his bow firmly at his side. He edges away from the children. "I assume that before it became this, it was a necromancer that did this to itself before it died. If its tent is any indication, it seized control of the tribe, and is directly responsible for its most xenophobic tendencies. The increased sociopathic tendencies are a side effect of the form."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:45, Wed 22 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 78 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 18:30
  • msg #514

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"I agree with Aldridge's assessment. It looks like the villagers are not eager to comply with the skull's desire to attack us, but we must tread carefully to keep it that way. And, uh, much as I hate to add to our list of complications, I could sure use some of that antitoxin."
Ethic
player, 16 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 19:35
  • msg #515

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"What in hell were you doing stalking a Flamestone bear?"
Westra
player, 93 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 19:43
  • msg #516

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra hands an antitoxin to Alwanzatar. "Good luck to you, sorcerer."

To Ethic, she says, "We disturbed it when we went after some supplies Flutterwing had left behind. It chased us a long way and we thought we had lost it. Then, it attacked the camp."

"You think the skull understands river-tongue?" she then wonders aloud to the group.
Aldridge
player, 132 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 19:46
  • msg #517

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Unlikely, unless it had known it it in its past life in addition to Blood Tongue," Aldridge answers. "If you're thinking of reasoning with it, let me disabuse you of that notion."
DM
GM, 131 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 20:14
  • msg #518

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The flameskull decides to step in where his village has failed. Howling what can only be a continuous stream of epithets at the party, it attacks.

A familiar bolt of fire winds its way toward Aldridge. (9 fire damage)

(The party is now in combat. The villagers can act after you, but do not currently appear inclined to take any action. The skull's actions clearly disturb them, however. The skull is 10' from the ground, near the bear. It is the party's turn.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:23, Wed 22 July 2015.
Ryudo
player, 58 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 20:28
  • msg #519

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

With the Terrorclaw injured and the skull too high in the air to attack, Ryudo continues helping the injured, hoping the healthier Terrorclaws will decide we are more worth helping than the flying skull.  Pointing to the medicine, he gestures for the other Terrorclaw to come help the injured.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:34, Wed 22 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 79 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 20:48
  • msg #520

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar sighs loudly and lobs a sling stone at the skull. "It resists magical effects, as well as puncture wounds, lightning, and necromancy. Cold, fire, poison, charms, fright, and paralysis are altogether useless against it. Father always told me I should spend more time with proper weapons..." (24 vs AC, 7 damage)
Aldridge
player, 133 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 20:48
  • msg #521

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge shrugs off the attack. "Sure, I probably deserved that. But not from you!" Aldridge cracks his neck, shrugs his shoulders, and scowls at the monster as he sings at it in overtone (Dissonant Whispers, 11 psychic damage, 13 DC vs. Wisdom. On fail, must immediately use its reaction to move away. On success, half damage and no fear.). He stands in defiance in his current position.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:01, Wed 22 July 2015.
Westra
player, 94 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 21:29
  • msg #522

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra uses another dose of antitoxin to stabilize Durz. "I'd be interested in a retreat soon," she says as she works. "Does anyone have a spell that removes a curse or dispels magic? Or maybe some holy water? Is anyone secretly a cleric? If we do fight it, we'll need something like that to keep it from coming back if we kill it."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:03, Wed 22 July 2015.
Flutterwing
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 21:45
  • msg #523

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing tosses a large stone ball at the flameskull, then re-equips her shield. (17 damage)
Airdsgainne
player, 43 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 22:08
  • msg #524

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne looks up from playing medic and utters a curse. He grasps his hand toward the skull, and yellow threads lash around it, pulling it to the earth. (Earthbind, str check or it starts falling)
Ethic
player, 17 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 22:38
  • msg #525

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic hoists his hammer again and roaring in anger he takes a mighty swing with both hands at the skull. (Reckless attack: 24 to hit: 6 dmg)
DM
GM, 132 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 22:50
  • msg #526

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The skull plummets to the ground at Ethic's feet under the influence of Airdsgainne's spell. It resists most of Aldridge's spell, but not not the force of Flutterwing's catapult. It is nearly falling apart, but still has a few shots. It fires at the nearest target: Ethic.

Two point blank rays strike him straight in the chest. (11, 5 fire damage; halved due to rage)

From seemingly nowhere, an enormous flamestone she-bear appears beside the fallen bear. It's easily twenty feet at the shoulders. It completely ignores the village below, as though it were beneath noticing. In one swift movement, it lifts the body of the dying bear onto it's back and begins to walk slowly and purposefully away.

(The party is still in combat with the flameskull. It is not necessarily in combat with the enormous she-bear, unless it really, really wants to be.)
Ethic
player, 18 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 22:52
  • msg #527

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic lifts his hammer high and smashes the skull into thousand pieces. (10 damage)
DM
GM, 133 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 22:55
  • msg #528

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

The villagers stand silent as the skull falls. Varthurg looks around for a moment, then cheers. The villagers don't join him, but a few smiles slip quietly around the camp.

The smiles fade quickly as they turn back to their fallen. They seem lost with the healer lying on the ground among the dying.

(The party is out of combat. You can take up to a minute of actions at a time now. Rescue breathing requires a DC 11 medicine check. You can only perform it on one person at a time.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:15, Wed 22 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 134 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 23:06
  • msg #529

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Hey, Westra, there's another bear you can fight, why don't you go chase after THAT one?" Aldridge shouts as everyone else is succumbed to shock.

He is still uneasy about the skull. "We have one hour to make sure it does not return." He turns to the cleric-sorcerer. "Flutterwing, do you have some holy water we can use? Failing that, can you dispel its essence somehow?"
Westra
player, 95 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 23:07
  • msg #530

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra gestures rudely in Aldridge's direction, then uses the remaining five antitoxin in her possession to stabilize Bor, Ugak, Ghak, Zahgorim, and Dul. "Can anyone else do anything?" she asks, desperately. "We still have at least a dozen that won't make it soon."

Spotting Vlog, she casts Cure Wounds to stop his bleeding (+9),
This message was last edited by the player at 23:12, Wed 22 July 2015.
Flutterwing
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 23:08
  • msg #531

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“I cannot dispel it's essence, but given an hour, I can ask the Spirits to bless a gourd of water.”
Aldridge
player, 135 posts
Bard, Trader
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 23:14
  • msg #532

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"We don't have an hour," Aldridge says through his teeth. "I mean, I suppose it can't cost anything to start the process, though we'll have to take it out again before we can use it. Go ahead and start the ritual, we'll just have to prepare ourselves and the village until we come up with a better option."

"Westra, can you see if they have a cleric who can dispel the town's poison, and the skull's magic?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:18, Wed 22 July 2015.
Westra
player, 96 posts
Wed 22 Jul 2015
at 23:22
  • msg #533

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"If any of the druids wake up, I can talk to them, but I don't think I'll have much luck otherwise," Westra says, beginning forced breathing on Gluronk, who is visibly pregnant.

Still she tries shouting to the village, "Anyone around here a cleric besides our Bear friend over here?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:20, Thu 23 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 136 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 01:31
  • msg #534

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge follows Westra's lead and begins resuscitating Duma the Elder (Medicine 14), signaling to the rest of the party and the Terrorclaws to also attempt to save someone.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:38, Thu 23 July 2015.
Ethic
player, 19 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 03:37
  • msg #535

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic un-slings his pack and attempts to render first aid to the villagers. (Medicine 9)
[Language unknown: Lin ekeeil latthopre analhi whi pr.]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:55, Thu 23 July 2015.
Flutterwing
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 15:19
  • msg #536

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

“If we have to squash that head again, we'll do it. These people need help immediately.” Flutterwing begins breathing for Kegigoth. (14 Medicine) She gestures to the villagers, showing them how it works.

Shagar, Rulfim, Mor, Gashnash, and Olaghig step forward. Shagar attempts to attend her daughter Bogdub as best she can. (10 Medicine) Rulfim attends her granddaughter, Bogdub's brother, as well. (2 Medicine) Rulfim tries, but her lungs are just too weak to be effective just now. Mor breathes for Ghak. (16 Medicine) Gashnash begins breathing for Borgakha. (22 Medicine) Olagig breathes for Lazgar. (22 Medicine)
Ryudo
player, 59 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 15:28
  • msg #537

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo attempts to help Mor. (Medicine: 19)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:09, Thu 23 July 2015.
Alwanzatar
player, 80 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 15:36
  • msg #538

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Powerless to provide any real healing, Alwan assists Durz. (19 medicine)
Airdsgainne
player, 44 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 15:56
  • msg #539

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne gives rescue breathing to three nearby children, alternating between them. (Medicine check Sharog 20, Shelur 4, Bogdub 19).
DM
GM, 134 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 16:22
  • msg #540

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

A few of the villagers start to recover from the poison. Shelur, Vagan, Durz, Ghak, Ugak, and Borgakha begin breathing shallowly on their own, still largely paralyzed. Their eyes open and dart about, however, indicating alertness.

(The party may take actions for the next minute. Status of those still in need of attention:

  • Sharog
  • Mor
  • Duma the Elder
  • Bogdub
  • Xugagug, 1 minute of suffocation
  • Gluronk, pregnant
  • Bor, has antitoxin
  • Kegigoth
  • Dul, has antitoxin, 1 minute of suffocation
  • Lazgar, attended by Olagig
  • Zahgorim, has antitoxin, 1 minute of suffocation


The healers don't think that they'll be able to save anyone with more than 3 minutes of suffocation. Minutes can't be removed until the patient breathes on their own, but they are prevented with the medicine checks you are doing.)

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:26, Thu 23 July 2015.
Ryudo
player, 60 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 16:30
  • msg #541

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo continues to help Mor, but was not as effective.  (Medicine 5)
Alwanzatar
player, 81 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 16:31
  • msg #542

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan attempts to aid Zahgorim, but fails to get his lungs moving. (2 medicine)
Westra
player, 97 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 16:33
  • msg #543

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra moves to perform rescue breathing on Xugagug (Medicine 11).
Aldridge
player, 137 posts
Bard, Trader
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #544

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge nods at Flutterwing, and continues on Duma. Unfortunately, he fails to keep the rhythm from before (Medicine 5).
Flutterwing
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 17:30
  • msg #545

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Flutterwing sees Airdsgainne's routine and decides her skills would be more suited assisting his efforts. She spends a minute arranging victims and preparing them so that Airdgainne spends a maximum amount of time with each victim. (Airdsgainne has advantage on his medicine checks this round.)
Airdsgainne
player, 45 posts
Thu 23 Jul 2015
at 17:41
  • msg #546

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne continues aiding the incapacitated children Flutterwing lines up. (Medicine check Sharog 21, Mor 22, Kegigoth 21)
DM
GM, 135 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 18:39
  • msg #547

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Sharog, Bor, Kegigoth, and Dul start breathing shallowly.

Status of those still in need of attention:
  • Mor, 1 minute of suffocation (Ryudo 12)
  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Aldridge 17)
  • Bogdub, 1 minute of suffocation (Airdsgainne 22)
  • Xugagug, 2 minutes of suffocation (Westra 22)
  • Gluronk, pregnant, 1 minute of suffocation (Airdsgainne 21)
  • Lazgar, 1 minute of suffocation (Airdsgainne 20)
  • Zahgorim, has antitoxin, 2 minutes of suffocation (Alwanzatar 15)


Since everyone is now receiving attention, we'll assume that you continue until things change.


Gluronk, Lazgar, and Zahgorim start breathing. The people assisting them begin assisting those assisting the remaining villagers.


  • Mor, 1 minute of suffocation (Ryudo 13)
  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 22)
  • Bogdub, 1 minute of suffocation (Airdsgainne 18)
  • Xugagug, 2 minutes of suffocation (Westra 25)


Mor starts breathing.


  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 16)
  • Bogdub, 1 minute of suffocation (Ryudo 15)
  • Xugagug, 2 minutes of suffocation (Westra 24)



  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 22)
  • Bogdub, 1 minute of suffocation (Ryudo 8)
  • Xugagug, 2 minutes of suffocation (Westra 16)



  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 14)
  • Bogdub, 2 minutes of suffocation (Ryudo 9)
  • Xugagug, 2 minutes of suffocation (Westra 11)



  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 22)
  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Ryudo 15)
  • Xugagug, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 15)


Xugagug starts breathing.


  • Duma the Elder, 1 minute of suffocation (Flutterwing 16)
  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 21)


Duma the Elder starts breathing.


  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 21)



  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 17)



  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 20)



  • Bogdub, 3 minutes of suffocation (Westra 7)


Bogdub dies.

(The party is now out of combat and done with actions. They gain experience for the following:

  • Recovering the tablets: 300xp
  • Escaping the bear: 1400xp
  • Defeating the bear: 1600xp
  • Defeating the flameskull: 500xp
  • Survivors (45 of 57): 400xp


The party will gain a level at the next long rest. The party can act in any order.)


Flutterwing fills a gourd with water and begins to pray over it. She is asking the Spirit of Sunlight in Winter to bless the water and make it ready to destroy the flameskull.

With no further ill effects, Alwanzatar shakes off the poison that is afflicting him, thanks to the antitoxin.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:39, Mon 27 July 2015.
Aldridge
player, 138 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 18:52
  • msg #548

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge recasts Dancing Lights as Flutterwing takes over for him. He watches patiently with the children, attempting to relieve their fears.

Aldridge watches patiently as Westra struggles to save Bogdub. Even after the girl passes, Westra frantically continues to save her until Airdsgainne quietly pulls her away. Aldridge considers saying something comforting, but decides solemn silence would be more welcome.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:53, Mon 27 July 2015.
Westra
player, 98 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 20:51
  • msg #549

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra wipes her eyes with the back of her arm, then walks up to Aldridge and sticks her finger in his face. "Their deaths are on your hands," she says in a savage whisper. "Give me one reason why I shouldn't tell the old druid terrorclaw exactly what your original plan was."
Ethic
player, 20 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 21:05
  • msg #550

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ethic goes to the well and taking a bucket full of water he pours it over his head. Exhausted he sits down near spot where the bear fell.
Aldridge
player, 139 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 21:07
  • msg #551

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"Well, first, you still don't know what my 'original plan' was," Aldridge says evenly. "If it helps you to sleep at night that you had nothing to do with it, fine. If it helps you to forget that they were perfectly willing to kill all of us last night without a second thought, that is also fine. If it helps you think that they wouldn't have hesitated to kill us where you stood when we got back from the hunt when the skull had realized that we were here, be my guest. From where I'm standing, we're all still alive, and we killed the root of evil from this clan. Considering how much death I've seen before today..."

Aldridge begins to choke up. He takes a few seconds before swallowing, releveling his tone.

"Considering what we've all lost today compared to what I've lost in the past, if you were standing from where I am, you would be counting your [Language unknown: romichstrortovetinich] blessings."

He starts walking towards the woods. "I can give you as many reasons as you want. We both know that you'll do what you feel like anyway."
DM
GM, 136 posts
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 21:57
  • msg #552

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

After about an hour, Flutterwing completes her ritual and douses the broken shards of the skull in the water. “[Language unknown: Fotios papo chort ec ntta],” she says to no one in particular.

About then, a group of Terrorclaw approach the village with baskets. (Mazoga [28f], her daughters Ragash [13f] and Ugor [11f], Bula [50f], Nughilug [52f], Oghash [53f], Garakh [49f], Sugorim [50m], Snakh [49m], and Dushnamub [49m].) In the baskets are vegetables and small game, brought down with traps. They exchange words with the others as they arrive and their faces grow grim. They go about their work storing their haul.

Shagar (28f) attends to the fire, righting the cooking pot and refilling it.

Olaghig attends to the dead. At his direction, large pyres are built down by the stream. The bodies are lain out upon them, but they remain unlit. He stands nearby with a sling, defending his tribesmen from the buzzards. After some time and reflection he returns to the village and collects the shards of the flameskull and constructs a pyre for it as well.

A few at a time, people visit the pyres and speak to them. The words are foreign, but their message universal. Mothers mourn their daughters. Daughters mourn their mothers. But the luxury of grief is one denied to the Terrorclaw. The tribe must continue, lest it starve.

Sugorim oversees the establishment of a large makeshift tent for the injured. He doesn't seem exceptionally skilled in Medicine, but he makes the unconscious people as comfortable as possible. Borgakha gets particularly special attention.

The villagers largely ignore the party. No one can speak to them and it doesn't seem that they know what to say anyway.
Aldridge
player, 140 posts
Bard, Trader
Mon 27 Jul 2015
at 22:31
  • msg #553

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

As Olaghig performs his ritual, Aldridge signs a song of mourning for the dead (Performance 24).

After the ritual is finished, Aldridge turns to Alwanzatar. "We should probably find where our drakes have wandered. One or two of us should probably stay, but if you want to invite someone to go with us, tell them we'll be back in a couple hours."
Alwanzatar
player, 82 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 16:00
  • msg #554

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"We'll need someone sharp-eyed. Any sign of them could be well-trampeled by now."
DM
GM, 137 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 16:07
  • msg #555

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwanzatar and Aldridge retrieve their drakes without incident.

(The party gains 10 xp.)
DM
GM, 138 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 16:57
  • msg #556

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Westra takes a small hollowed out stone and crushes the some of the Mammoth's Blood leaves into it. She puts it at the edge of the fire and slowly roasts the leaves over the course of the entire afternoon. A bit before evening, she takes the resultant paste and wraps it in a fresh leaf. “When this cools, it will produce even more potent effect than the flowers did.” (Mammoth's Blood elixir: Enhance ability on Strength and Constitution for 1 hour.)

As the sun sinks low in the sky, the bear's surviving victims start to wake. Even those that are awake are too weak to move. Borgakha remains asleep. But the party hears a familiar tongue from Durz, “[Language unknown: Ionateect ck li inla tous, nceeur Allichoerund. Mousom her dieve, us loteth terresrut mahou ol olsom.]
Airdsgainne
player, 46 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 17:01
  • msg #557

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Airdsgainne scowls and turns to Westra. “You deal with this.” The druid sits on the ground beside the cookfire, pulls out a small plug of yew about the size of his thumb and begins carving.
Westra
player, 99 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 17:14
  • msg #558

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: K a be illa ce meolur ev. Di sta i erselielfo asbeitunit ntihe Llpo pariun omic th wi di rediai. Ar marea ast ie dayica'oustra stawhierenti]," Westra replies to Durz, skirting the edges of fact.
DM
GM, 139 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 17:25
  • msg #559

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

[Language unknown: Omelesain siss. Ti e as er adonst iterte, ivek Po fillch allel isce ce ch ti li ro p sheoutred o un eeal set ncle po thothipro. Llplil beon ul reaatiain, ateol m trrock ouut plulse me enciv houil arethoill. Wa ain Outatentited hasionandill inno. Wione u pre et sanlatint k ho ta onepo.]” Durz nods her head toward the old woman who helped Ryudo when he first came to the camp.
Aldridge
player, 141 posts
Bard, Trader
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 17:51
  • msg #560

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Aldridge takes a few snacks from Saphira, feeding both himself and the drake. He offers a little to the children, who quietly take the offering. Tired of the long day and not in the mood for more conversation, Aldridge lays his head on the drake as she keeps a sleepy but watchful eye over the camp.
Westra
player, 100 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 18:45
  • msg #561

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

"[Language unknown: Ai usil privofitel erawilvir. Es rosom ioan ame Werillsonthaore lailoumo a ica. Whehertra any le aniewhhe usure p.]" Westra nods at Durz and walks back toward the others.

"We are expected to attend a memorial service tomorrow morning out of respect for the dead," she says to the group. "It would be unwise to miss it." She beds down, hoping to find some rest before something else horrible happens.
Ryudo
player, 61 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 19:08
  • msg #562

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Ryudo climbs up a tree and goes into his trance.
Alwanzatar
player, 83 posts
Tue 28 Jul 2015
at 20:16
  • msg #563

Re: Chapter 1: Greetings and Salutations

Alwan sees to his drake, which requires a bit of soothing, then beds down.
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