Ailishi, Larmiun and Oren depart the chapel with the intention of talking to several townspeople. Velox departs with them, while he hopes to talk to Burne's Badgers his trek takes him in the same direction so for now he remains with the others to make the final leg into town.

Departing from the Chapel continuing along the road south into town you notice a rather modest cottage on the right. A couple of guard dogs look up and watch as you are walking from the porch of the cottage. They seem alert but are not growling or barking at you.

Ailishi looks at the cottage. It is tempting to just clap his hands, but he doesn't know what kind of man is inside. Would he command the dogs to attack? No, best bet is to just go on, to see if someone walks the street or go directly to the local tavern.

"Let's move on."

Velox considers the cottage for a moment, but nods in agreement with Ailishi, saying "Someone thinks there's something worth guarding within, but that's not really our problem right now..."

"Agreed. Let's move on." He follow Ailishi and Velox, keeping an eye on the dogs just in case they decide to attack.

Oren passes by, giving the dogs an even appraisal, before following the others.

In reply to Oren Stonebreaker (msg # 5):

As you pass by the dogs seeing that you aren't coming put their heads back down on the porch. Another dog comes around from the corner of the house to join his buddies. A middle aged human comes around the corner, seems to scoff in your direction as he enters his home.

You travel farther down and come to a forth in the road.

You can tell from here the left fork passes between two buildings, one is slightly smaller than the chapel and the other is larger. The larger one is mostly made of wood but seems to be in good order. The other slightly smaller than the chapel building seems to be of fine quality, as fine as you'd find in Verbobonc.

Down the right fork you see two buildings about the same size as the fine building but not as good a quality.

Do you take the right fork or the left fork?

The old man's reaction confirmed his suspiscion so Ailishi doesn't have any problem in letting him be.

"I think we should go to the right. I prefer to not deal with rich folks first."

Oren nods in agreement.  "Aye lad, I can see yer point.  It is the poor who suffer first, generally."  He spoke, following the young man.

In reply to Oren Stonebreaker (msg # 8):

As you are discussing which way to go you see a guard patrolling coming from the left fork. He is dressed in chainmail, has a shield, longsword and longbow. His shield has what looks like a critter on it, maybe a Badger?

He takes notice of you and slows his stride a little as he approaches the fork.

"Good day" he calls out. "What brings you to Hommlet?"

Velox sees the armed and armored guard and steps forward. "Good sir, we are seeking to put an end to the bandit problem that has plagued the area. You aren't a part of the local militia, the Badgers, are you? I was hoping to speak with a representative and find out what is know about the bandits before we proceed with our hunt."

OOC: 08:54, Today: Velox rolled 20 using 1d20+7.  Diplomacy.

In reply to Velox (msg # 10):

"I'm part of Burne's Badgers, but Burne's Badgers aren't the towns militia. We are in the service of His Most Worshipful Mage of Hommlett Burne. We do patrol town regularly as well as guard the construction site. Lord Rufus is the leader of Burne's Badgers." he responds.

He notes the blank looks he adds "If you want to talk to Lord Rufus you'll take the left fork here, go over the bridge, then when you come to the next fork take the left fork again and it'll fork again and stay to the left then keep going straight. The guard tower is just past the stonemason's home."

Oren tugs his beard slightly, before nodding his head.  "Aye, that sounds like the right and proper way to go about this.  By and by, have ye any thoughts on the bandits, Sir?  Besides the obvious hanging."  He spoke, being respectful of the Badger.  Maybe in the future he could forge them some proper weapons and armor...for a price of course.

Ailishi nods and pats Velox' back. "I think your road is the left one. I will go to the right. It has been a pleasure, Badger. I think we will see each other again soon."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:19, Fri 11 Aug 2017.

Velox nods to Ailishi and then bows his head to the Badger, "Thank you sir for your directions and your greeting. Might I have your name, should I get an audience with Lord Rufus, I would like to tell him what a capable Badger he has in you."

Larmiun follows Ailishi in silence after giving a respectful bow to the Badger. One thing is a lone priest, another thing is a member of a militia. He can afford to piss off the former, not the last.

In reply to Larmiun Dol'Uten (msg # 15):

Haric moves to answer Oren's question "Bandits mostly seem to avoid town. There's a score or more of us Burne's Badgers, not to mention the local militia if they were to attack. We are simply to strong for them to attack here."

"Too strong here? Are you not strong enough somewhere else?" The question is immediate, as if the Badger activated it with his words.

In reply to Larmiun Dol'Uten (msg # 17):

"Well east of town, about a mile or so out on the low road towards Nulb" he says "Bandits are pretty active that way."

Velox could tell the Badger felt uncomfortable sharing his name, so he nodded his head in parting and followed the man's instructions to go to the Badger's HQ.

"Seems like a good place to start then. Thank you very much... I am sorry, what is your name?"
Ailishi smiles to the Badger, trying to at least gain a connection with the organization.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 20):

"My name's Haric." he responds, Velox having already left. "Is there anything else I could help you with?"

Oren shakes his head, following after Velox.  He does pause to nod his head in thanks as they continue on.

In reply to Oren Stonebreaker (msg # 22):

Oren waited long enough to hear the name of the guard but then went after Velox (OOC Will move you to that thread)

"Good to know. I am Ailishi Urcmon and this is Larmiun Dol'Uten. We are pleased to meet you. Perhaps we can help each other in the future." He bows and resume his way on the right path.

Larmiun walks with Ailishi. When they are far enough he whisper to him "Think they are afraid of a little competition?"

"Maybe... let's talk to the judges. That way we will see how protected they feel."
He grins to Larmiun.
"Think Saralessa will have any problems?"

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 26):

Continuing on your way along the right fork of the path you come across a home on the right side of the road. The nicely painted sign shows a painted shield and a chest of drawers.

"Have problems? Ailishi, Seralessa is problems."

Larmiun chuckles and continues walking. "Hey look. Maybe we can find friendly people here. I knock the door, you do the talking."

"Let's do it." He fixes his clothes to be a little more presentable and waits.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 29):

Larmiun knocks on the door.

A voice from within calls out "We're open, come on in!"

Larmiun opens the door. "Good morning."
OOC: (Or is it afternoon?)

Ailishi follows him to see who is insie. "Hello."

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 32):

You enter a building whose purpose becomes more clear as you enter. This is the shop of the local cabinet maker. You see a man perhaps in his mid 20s working on finishing a small cabinet. Another fellow, perhaps sixteen or seventeen is already working on another project roughing out another cabinet.

"Good morning to you as well." the cabinet maker says. "I don't believe I've seen you here before, thinking of moving to town?"

OOC: It's mid morning.

Ailishi smiles to the man and bows. "Good morning good sir. It is a lovely town, but right now settling here is not the reason why we are here. My name is Ailishi Urcmon and this one here is Larmiun Dol'Uten. We are investigating the bandit problem that is punishing the roads around here. Can you tell us something about it?"

OOC:
05:54, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 22 using 1d20+8.  Diplomacy.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 34):

He looks up from his work "Banditry is bad east of the city, along the roads towards Caltaran and also the road towards Pelgaryn."

He shakes his head "Supplies from that route are very hard to get these days. It seems they get almost every caravan coming to or from here. Maybe one in five makes it through. Prices been skyrocketing. 20-30% more at the Trading post than just a couple years ago."

"They say that the Badgers and the city watch protect the town. So this protection... is not enough? They are building a castle nearby... It has to need supplies. Do they have the same problem?"

In reply to Larmiun Dol'Uten (msg # 36):

"Oh I believe most of the supplies for the castle come from the road to Verbobonc. That road is relatively safe." he responds.

"I know the guard tower went up pretty quick, and far as I can tell the castle is on schedule. I was able to make a fine cabinet for Burne when they first came to town. This one here is for the jeweler in town." he tells you

"That is good to know. What is your name, again?" Ailishi asks "You must be quite the craftman around for Burne want one of your cabinets."

"Have you heard something about the bandits? Rumours or something?"

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 38):

"My names Geoffry." the older man says, he then points over to the younger boy roughing out a cabinet "That's Gare."

"Well from what I hear about 10 years ago, when I was about Gare's age, there was a lot of Banditry in the area. However after that Battle folks talk about still it seemed to die down for a number of years. Then just as St. Cuthbert's chapel was finished what two three years ago, and then just after it the Guard Tower the bandits seemed to become active again. Hitting caravans regularly. They'll hit travelers too if they look to wealthy." Geoffry says.

"Burne's Badgers patrol town now and patrol up to a a mile out of town. That seems at least for now to keep the bandits away from Hommlet itself." he continues.

"From what I hear most of the attacks occur between Twilight Falls and Nulb, and then between Nulb and here, and going to the other road between here and Hummings End. They seem to favor hiding in the woods or marshland striking from cover. They typically target any guards in their initial attack from what I've heard, leaving poor merchants nearly defenseless. I think a couple of fellows arrive in town last night from a Caravan, they barely escaped with their lives. I think they are at the Welcome Wench. I don't remember their names one was Bulani though." He adds.

He looks to Larmiun. "I think we have a new destination." He turns to Geoffy and smiles to him. "Thank you so much, Geoffry. You helped us a lot. We wish the best for you and Gare. We will go to Welcome Wench now."

He bows and heads out to Welcome Wench to see who is inside.

Larmiun nods and bos his head before following Ailishi.

"This made me think. Bandits or pirates generally make poor merchants, farmers or animal breeders. Unless they get the food from caravans."

In reply to Larmiun Dol'Uten (msg # 41):

"Good to meet you fellows." Geoffry comments "I hope to see more of you, and consider settling here. It's quiet in town. Good trade routes when the bandits aren't about from the coast to the Kron Hill gnomes. Everyone needs a place to call home. Tell Ostler I said hello, he's the innkeeper."

"Ostler... right. Thank you Geoffry. Who knows? Maybe we can make this a better town to live before we decide to settle."

Ailishi heads to the tavern to see what he can find there.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 43):

You leave the Cabinet shop and go back where you and Velox had separated continuing over the bridge. As you cross the bridge and start down the road you see a farmhouse on the left. There are two girls outside. One is churning milk into butter and the other seems to be engaged in washing clothes. They are probably in their mid teens. Both wave friendly to you.

Just ahead of the farm you see two shops across the street from one another. The one on the left has a wooden sign depicting a bag of wool and a loom. The other building has a place for a sign but seems to be missing a sign presently. The door of both places is open at the moment.

Do you wish to stop at these?

Larmiun smiles to the girls and whispers to Ailishi. "Young ones. They may offer a view untainted by the worries of the adults." He says that even when he is barely older than them.

Ailishi smiles to the teenagers. "Hello girls. My name is Ailishi. This one is Larmiun. Can we ask you some questions? Don't worry, we won't ask you out." He winks at them.

"First of all, what are your names? And have you heard or seen something about the bandits of the area?"

OOC:
07:42, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 26 using 1d20+8.  Diplomacy.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 46):

The two girls giggle and their cheeks turn red when Ailishi addresses them.

The girl churning the milk into butter says "I'm Alyn" and then pointing to her sister who is hanging clothes "That's Even".

Another girl comes out and she's probably not yet a teenager maybe 8 or 9, "And that's Stona".

Even then says "Ya, Pa and Allerd are part of the town militia. Since the guard tower finished town's pretty safe. They still practice though, even though I'm sure Lord Rufus and Lord Burne would dispatch any bandits quickly."

Alyn then continues "The bandits seem to attack those coming from the coasts directly to here, or from the Kron Hills to here. Also attack shipments out that way. I've heard they are mixed humanoids and goblinoids. Can you imagine that a human working with a bugbear?!"

Ailishi smiles to them, showing his white teeth.
"Some things are hard to believe. But we have yet to know the limits of the human being. You helped us greatly. I hope we can repay you soon, ladies." He bows to them. "Who is Allerd? Your brother?"

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 48):

Even responds "Yeah, Alfred's our older brother. Him and pa are working the fields right now. You look almost as stout as he is."

"Really? I hope he is not the jealous kind and find me talking to you then." Ailishi winks at them. "We have to go now, but it has been a pleasure to meet you, Alyn, Even and Stona."

He looks to Larmiun and moves his head, indicating him to walk with him.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 50):

The girls giggle. "Dinners at sundown" Alyn tells you as you depart.

Stona runs into the house screaming "Alyn's got suitor!, Alyn's got a suitor!"

Alyn's cheeks get a deeper red.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:10, Sun 27 Aug 2017.

Larmiun looks at them and smiles. "Ailishi will be busy... but I will be there! I would love to have dinner with you!"

OOC: Just checking how much I can get with my Cha 8!

Even responds "That's a shame, you are welcome to come to dinner as well. Perhaps you can persuade him to come with you."

Ailishi laughs. "Don't mind him girls. Nothing could prevent me to enjoy your company one more time!"

The girls giggle back.

Are you leaving the girls now?

OOC: Yep... the shop without a sign is intriguing.

OOC: That or the tavern.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 57):

So witch do you go to, the building without a sign or the welcome wench?

Building without a sign... And then Welcome Wench

You enter the small cottage without a sign and find it sparse within. There are a few robes and cloaks hung up. A man about thirty years old has a couple trunks he's rummaging through. He doesn't yet seem to notice you.

You also notice bolts of cloth and the tools of a tailor. On the counter of his shop is a light crossbow. He seems to be muttering to himself.

Ailishi looks at Larmiun, indicating him to block the exit before addressing the man.

"Good day to you, sir. My name is Ailishi Urcmon. This is Larmiun Dol'Uten. Are you too busy? I would like to ask you a few questions."

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 61):

The man just about jumps up about three feet in the air despite his small size. He holds a hand to his chest "St Cuthbert be praised."

"My name's Elwic, come on in." he says after recovering from his fright "Sorry the shops not up and running yet, I've just moved from Verbobonc. I got my living quarters set up first. Now I'm just starting on my goods. I hope to have the shop up and running full steam soon. Are you in need of a cloak or robe, or perhaps a tabard?"

Ailishi chuckles. "We need information, Elwic. I see you are well prepared." He points to the crossbow. "Did you find any problems in your way from Verbobonc? Do you know something about bandits?"

"No problems on the road." he says "I've been here almost a week and not yet been invited to join the local militia. I'm well trained in the crossbow. I can shoot her almost as fast as a normal person can shoot a bow."

"I almost thought you were bandits sneaking up on me like that." Elwic chuckles a little nervously "But I've been fortunate so far not to be bothered by the bandits. I think town is pretty safe, I wish they'd offer me a slot in the militia though. It takes more than brawn to win battles."

"That is impressive." Larmiun looks around. "So, you are a tailor that wants to be a militia and you think yourself as smart enough to be put above the rest of the unit..." He smiles to him as he rests his back on the wall. "You are a little more than just a tailor, right?"

He shakes his head "No, no"

"I don't want to be an officer or anything, just a part of it. I think my crossbow skills would come in handy. I practice with it almost daily." he continues.

"Just a tailor I'm afraid."

Ailishi smiles and nods. "Well... then maybe we can help you show your skills in the future, Elwic. I am sure that if you help us, they will have no option but acknowledge your skills. We are going to hunt the bandits, and one more man is always welcome."

He offers Elwic his hand.

Elwic seems happy for a moment then sad.

"I can't leave my shop unattended to go outside of town to hunt them." Elwic says sadly "I'm more than willing to fight em if they come to town though, got to defend what's ours."

Larmiun smiles. "It is all right Elwic. We understand. Still, I think you can become much more than just a tailor. Let's just say I see it in you."

He looks to Ailishi. "Shall we?"

Ailishi puts his hands on Elwic's shoulder. "And I am sure you will defend it well. Have that crossbow ready at all times, my friend. You may need it sooner than you think."

He waves goodbye to Elwic and heads to the tavern.

Elwic bids you farewell.

You then leave his little shop and continue along the road south. The Welcome Wench is a large structure, the biggest you've seen so far. There is a large wooden sign with a depiction of a smiling wench offering a beer on the outside. You notice that the Welcome Wench also has a stables.


You open the doors and enter:

This large place is bright and cheerful. It contains several rough-hewn tables and chairs, boards, and benches. Natural tree trunk pillars support the ceiling overhead, all dark with smoke and age.

A motley group of people is here. You see a couple of serving wenches, a potboy, what must be the barkeep/innkeeper and around eleven customers spread throughout the building.

Most of the customers, six of them, seem to be playing cards at the moment.

Three more are at the bar, and the remaining two at another table not far from the fireplace.

Larmiun goes to the bar and sits, asking for a drink. He looks around, trying to see who are the merchants or have signs of travelling a lot.

OOC:
02:16, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Spot.

Ostler comes over and asks "What shall you have lad?"

Most of the people at the poker table seem to be travelers or merchants you believe.

One other person at the bar is a merchant. The others you believe are locals.

"Ale?" he asks to Larmiun and after he orders he looks at the people. "Who should we talk to first?"

Once Larmiun points someone, Ailishi takes his ale and walks to that table.

"Excuse me good sirs. My name is Ailishi Urcmon and this one is Larmiun Dol'Uten. Are you merchants? Can we ask you some questions?"

When he tries to sit, he pours some of the ale on his shirt. "Oh damn!"


OOC:
07:39, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Diplomacy.

Ostler brings you an ale. "4 coppers son"

He notices that you were looking over "Watch that one." he says at the table. The man dealing the cards. "I'm sure he's a cheating but I haven't caught him yet."

Ailishi gave him a silver coin. "For my friend too, please. Andd that is good to know, thank you."


Once at the table he asks, "Can I have a sit among you?"

Ostler nods and gets a mug of Ale for Larmiun as well. He gives you your change of 2 cp.

(OOC: Which table are you going to the poker table or the couple that's flirting with one another?)

OOC: Poker table. We are looking for merchants :)

"Of course, there is always room at the table for another." Furnok says "I'm Furnok of Ferd. I'm a treasure finder. Who might you be?"

He motions to a nearby chair for you to bring it to the table.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:59, Mon 11 Sept 2017.

"I am Ailishi Urcmon. That over there is Larmiun Dol'Uten. Are you merchants by any chance? I would like to know where you come from and if you got attacked by the bandits."

He smiles and sits with them.

Furnok says "I'm just a traveler friend, not really a merchant. I do some dungeon delving now and then. Play cards in my spare time. I reckon I got here to Hommlet about four days ago. Traveling alone I was able to elude any of the bandits. I came along the road from Verbobonc. I didn't see any bandits but I was cautious."

Some of the others look over you. You get a sense that some of them are merchants but they are perhaps afraid to discuss things openly.

Larmiun gets closer to the group. "Traveler you say? You must have good reasons to travel alone in an área where bandits are known to attack. Is there a dungeon nearby?"



OOC:
12:27, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 25 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.
 

"Well I've heard there are opportunities in this area so I came here to see if I could get in on the action is all. I was hoping to join up with a group, help em out. Cards is just to pass the time." Furnok says.

"I suppose an enterprising group could investigate Emridy Meadows. I do know where it is, but probably been picked clean over the last decade. Might be some armor or weapons there on the field still though."

"Emridy Meadows? It doesn't sound like a dungeon." Ailishi chuckles. "Will these gentlemen join you there?"

He looks at the other who have remained in silence.

"I doubt it, these are merchants and traders not adventuers." Furnok says. "You've never heard of Emridy Meadows? Famous battle took place about 10 years ago. It was where the forces of order and good met the forces of chaos and evil on the battlefield before the sacking of the Temple of Elemental Evil?"

Furnok looks at you a bit "I mean even Serten of the Circle of Eight died at the Battle along with thousands of lesser known folks."

You can tell by the facial expressions and body language easily that the other men are not interested in adventuring. Looking on though you notice that the piles of coins in front of each is not so dissimilar. It appears if Furnok is cheating he's not getting rich doing it. His pile might have a gold or two more than the others.

Ailishi smiles. "You seem to know a lot about that battle. History is not a strong point of mine. Are you a bard?"


He then smiles to the other folks. "What about you? Did you have an encounter with bandits in your way here?"

"No nothing as fancy as a bard I'm afraid." Furnok responds "Just a simple treasure finder."

"Why yes I was assaulted by the bandits" one gentleman says. "They shot my driver and my guard. If it wasn't for me quick thinkin and takin the reigns they'd of got me for sure."

"I come from Verbobonc, not seen any that way" another of the traders says.

"How far away did you get attacked, good sir? And where do you come from? Could you defend all your goods?"

Then he speaks to the one who wasn't attacked. "Are you going to move soon?"

"I'm from Narwell, we were attacked after we left Humming's End. We were attacked just after the road that goes south to Sheernobb just before we reached Hommlet." he says "We had to dumb some of the goods to make it here, we had to lighten the load or I wouldn't of made it. I think I got about half my load still. I'm heading to Verbobonc to sell but if I make it back home I'm not coming this way again unless the roads are cleared!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:51, Thu 14 Sept 2017.

"Could you see them in detail? Race, maybe a leader? Did they use only swords our could wield magic?"

Larmiun approaches to ask them and keep an eye on the "treasure finder".

"They used a crossbow or bow to take out the driver I think, same with my guard who was riding with the driver." the man replies "They were giving chase, I saw swords and axes mostly I think. They were human I believe, least seemed to be."

Ailishi nods and looks back to Furnok. "Does this Temple of Elemental Evil still stand? At least as ruins? Where are those meadows?"

"Emridy Meadows, it's the meadow between the road from Hommlet to Nulb running from the road up to the Emridy's Run river." Furnok says. "As for the Temple, I don't know where it is, it is said that it was sacked, and I presume destroyed but I suppose some remnant of it remains but where I don't know. The Battle of Emridy Meadows was before the sacking of the Temple, so it would have to be north along the road from the Battle I suppose."


OOC: Velox and Oren arrive at the Welcome Wench about this time.

Velox entered the Welcome Wench and saw his traveling companions at a table engaged with a few travelers or tradesmen. He'd had his own fill of talking to strangers for the time being so he went up to the bar and ordered an ale.

Ostler nods at the request and gets a mug of ale for Velox stating as he puts it down "That'll be four coppers sir."

He notes Velox interest in the goings on at the table. "Know any of those fellows?"

Larmiun nods. "Well, I think that would  be all. Except... Furnok, if we are going to pay a visit to that temple, would you join us? It seems you are the one who knows the most of it."

"I'd be delighted to join you. However I'm not sure of where the Temple itself was. I'd be happy to accompany you on your adventures for an equal share of the treasure." he says seemingly happy to have something to do other than play cards. "When do you plan to leave?"

"As soon as we have a clue that links the bandits to your temple. Otherwise... there isn't much a point. Now, if you excuse us."

Ailishi gives a look to Larmiun and then goes to see Velox. "Any luck?"

Velox hands the barkeep the 4 coppers for the ale and nods in the affirmative at the question.

When Ailishi approaches he says, "Indeed. We should make all speed to leave. A local druid, a man named Jaroo, has a young apprentice who has been lost investigating some ruins. The ruins are a moathouse that once belonged to the Temple of Elemental Evil. It was a lookout for the Temple. With the Battle of Emridy Meadows the moathouse was bypassed. They later struck it on the way out but much of it remains. It would make a formidable base for bandits if that is where they are located, or so the druid seemed to think. It is located along the low road towards Nulb. About half a days walk in a marshy section of land. There are giant frogs there that can swallow a man. Anyway, the road forks at that point and if you take the right fork it will lead you to the ruins. That section of road though is not well maintained these days, only the left fork is."

He took a breath, not realizing how much he'd just spoken in trying to recap what they'd learned.

"Oh and we met Lord Rufus and Burne the Wizard. Anyone who can cast arcane spells has been offered assistance with scrolls or a spell exchange. They support our mission and only ask that we report to them whenever possible what we've found."

"And even when they knew all that they never went to explore themselves. Interesting." Larmiun caresses his chin.

"Jaroo's a good fellow." Ostler says "He's headed the circle here for over a decade. He's strong in the Old Faith."

Ailishi looks at Furnok. "Seems we know where is your temple now." he turns to the barkeeper. "And what circle is that?"

Oslter gives out a hearty laugh as he responds "The Druid's Circle of course. The circle here is part of the Grand Druid of the Gnarley Forest domain."

Furnok gathers his cards. "Well gentlemen seems I have treasure to find. Been nice playing with ya'll."

He scoops the coins into his belt pouch.

Then he heads over to where you are "Well I can be ready in just a bit, just need to get a few things from the room.".

He tosses Ostler a few coins "I'll need my room for another night good fellow."

Ostler looks at Furnok roughly but takes the coins "As you wish sir."

Ailishi nods "We just got here. Let's not rush and wait till tomorrow to begin our incursion. Besides, we must wait for the others."

Velox stared at the Aishii and said, "Did I stutter when I mentioned that Jaroo's apprentice was in grave danger. Forgive me if I did. I for one will be setting out with all haste to see if there is any aid we can offer the boy."

Oren listens intently, before speaking.  "Easy lad, tis best not to rush off and forget something that can be avoided with a little preparation.  When the others are ready, so shall we be."  He spoke calmly, ready to be off, but knowing that patience is a dwarven virtue.

"No boy is sent to explore an evil ruin, Velox. And noone lost in an evil ruin survives for long. Your boy is surely dead by now, but you are free to be our scout in the matter. Others can wait and have the benefit of numbers."

"Hey... wait." Larmiun intercedes. "Is there a bonus if we find the boy?"

Velox is appalled at the interjections from those he's teamed up with and he drinks his ale, silently stewing at the thought of waiting around while a boy was dying, being tortured or worse...

The door opens and you see a strong young man come in and his kinda zig zagging to a table. He sees you all gathered and before taking a seat zig zags over to you. "Hello, My name's Elmo!"

"I'm lookin for some work as a man at arms, I need me some money to buy some ale." Elmo says "I just need some armor and an ax and half a share of treasure."

Ostler rolls his eyes at Elmo's entrance but keeps quiet.

"That seounds like a lot, Elmo. How do we know you are worth it?" Ailishi quickly replies. He seems like a fool... but he has been doing foolish things so why not at least consider him?

"My brother's an adventurer!" Elmo exclaims "He's showed me a thing or two. He gave me this knife too."

Elmo shows off his knife which looks to be of exquisite manufacturing. "I've been helpin me dad the last few years in the militia too, so I got me some experience."

There is the smell of alcohol on Elmo's breath.

Ostler shakes his head at Elmo's comments. He dourly says "His brother gave em that knife six months ago, no one's seen em since. Boys to eager to find his own grave if ye ask me"

Elmo smiles a big dumb grin "He's fine!" he declares in protest to Ostler

"He was going to the pomarj last we heard. I'm sure he's getting rich pounding orcs and hobgoblins!"

He then turns to you "Well before I get a share you can take the cost of the armor and axe out of me first half share, until they are paid of course."

Furnok seems to look over young Elmo putting in "He looks plenty strong, if nothing else he could help us carry the treasure."

Larmiun has his own thoughts about men whose primary purpose for money is to spend it in alcohol.
"Maybe next time. We don't know what we can expect there."

Elmo looks a bit dejected but heads over to a table and orders himself an ale, apparently he still has enough for one cup.

Ailishi looks at Larmiun, silently chastising him for being so blunt. He follows Elmo to his table and puts a hand on his shoulder. "Hey... nice dagger. Can I see it?"

"Sure" Elmo says producing the dagger and laying it on the table "My brother Otis gave it to me."

The dagger looks to be made of steel, the pommel has ivory wrapped with some leather. All in all it looks well made.

"Very good, Elmo. Did your brother buy it here or did her find it somewhere?"

"He found it" Elmo says with a big grin. "He was out looking around out at the Meadows, said he found it there. He gave it to me to hold onto til he got back."

"At the meadows! What a coincidence!" Ailishi looks at the others. "Did your brother tell you where he was going after that?"

"No he didn't just that he was going west for while, that he'd be in touch soon" Elmo says.

The rest of the party arrives back (I posted the other day they could post here, but hoopefully this spurs some movement)

"So you got yourself in the nearest tavern while I was outside working my butt out!" Seralessa shouted as she hold the door open, her eyes staring to Larmiun and Ailishi but her words directed to anyone of the group in the tavern.
"Why did I expect otherwise?"

"She never stops talking, does she?" the young man asked, his pickets jingling with fresh coins.

"It would seem she never runs out of energy."

"Yes, hatchlings are always energetic, but this one more than most." the old man says, his hawkish face permanently etched in discontent, though currently of a less intense variety. Turning to the others he says, "So what trouble did you folks run into? You lot find some dead bodies too?"

When the others joined them, Velox spoke up echoing much of what he'd told those who'd arrived before him. "We met Lord Rufus and Burne the wizard. They extended an offer to any of the arcane spellcasters in our group to assist us with a few scrolls. They are in support of our mission."

He paused and then added, "We should make all speed to leave. A local druid, a man named Jaroo, has a young apprentice who has been lost investigating some ruins. The ruins are a moathouse that once belonged to the Temple of Elemental Evil. It was a lookout for the Temple. With the Battle of Emridy Meadows the moathouse was bypassed. They later struck it on the way out but much of it remains. It would make a formidable base for bandits if that is where they are located, or so the druid seemed to think. It is located along the low road towards Nulb. About half a days walk in a marshy section of land. There are giant frogs there that can swallow a man. Anyway, the road forks at that point and if you take the right fork it will lead you to the ruins. That section of road though is not well maintained these days, only the left fork is."

He looked to the others and hoped they would have a more immediate reaction than those he'd told this tale too first.

"How long ago was the apprentice lost? And how sure are they the apprentice made it to that particular ruin in the first place? Could have fallen pray to bandits or other dangerous of the forrest. Still they may need our help. Come to think of it we found a body did we not?"

"Hey! We made our investigations!" Larmiun stands up to her. "And I dare to say that we know now a little more of our enemies! Not to say free dinner."

Seralessa immediately turns to her previous companions. "No... the problem is that you have too little energy."

But when she hears Larmiun's words her face immediately brights up in a very condescending way. "Oh my goodness! Free dinner! I wonder what you did to the keeper of this tavern to achieve such a great reward!"

She looked at Velox for a short while, allowing him to continue. Druids are not known to manage money.

Ailishi hits the back of Larmiun's head.

"We didn't do anything to the owner of this tavern except paying the drinks he gave us. Larmiun and me were invited to dinner with other people. And given that they are not people of power or money, we can't impose more guests to them."
He bows his head, hoping everyone will understand.

"Oh! And who are these people who invited you despite being such humble persons? And why?"

Seralessa takes a seat on their table, with a curious smile on her face, putting her elbows on the table and holding her face on her hands.

"Tell me."

Elmo notices Seralessa and calls out to her "Hello Seralessa, it's me Elmo. I'm still available for hire as a man at arms if you need someone. I still need some armor and an axe". He doesn't get up seeming to nurse his mug of ale.

She smiles to him. "Hello Elmo. Let me think about it, OK?"

"Okay" Elmo says with a bit of a sigh.

Ostler looks at the newcomers "What will ye have to drink?"

His question seems to be centered on those that had arrived from flower hunting.

Larmiun receives the hit on the back of his head and immediately turns to Ailishi. "Hey!"

Looking back to Seralessa, he explains. "We are going to have dinner with two members of the town militia and their families. They seem to have dealt with them in the past and probably can provide useful information."

Ailishi looks at Seralessa and then to Elmo. And he has a little idea. But it can wait a moment.

"Yes... We can be facing goblinoids working side by side with humans. There can be other races. The more we know, the more we can prepare to go to that place."

"Goblins."

Himo has trouble hiding his disdain.

Milander stares off into space as they discuss things, saying, "And what of the bandits?"

Seralessa looks at the eyes of Larmiun and Ailishi and smirks. "Good job then."

She turns to the bartender. "Not much... but how much it is a meal here? Do you have available rooms?"

"Ah yes my lass" Ostler says "I do indeed have some rooms. I assume you'd want a private room. My bottom line private room will cost you 2 gp per night and my best available one at this time is 5 gp a night."

"As for a meal we have a few choices here at dinnertime, our plain dinner is 5 sp, our elaborate dinner is 1 gp, and we offer a 7 course dinner for 2 gp. Drinks not included. We have a wide variety of drinks for cheap ale at 4 cp a mug" he distinctly looks in Elmo's direction "To a Furyondian Emrald Pale wine that's 4 gp a pint to a Velunan Fireamber wine that's 5 platinum a pint"

Seralessa keeps staring at the tavern keeper. "And a shared bedroom with a locker?"

Albrecht listens to the room rates, pulling out the coins they had found on the dead bodies. "All of you can have your share of this loot we found on the spiders, as you all were busy doing other tasks while we were slaying them. I don't know how much they got for the flowers, but hopefully they will split that all up as well," he commented, giving everyone whatever the agreed upon splitting of the loot was which I can't currently remember.

"Two gold per night? Faerie feathers! I have to sit down."

Himo pulls out a stool and sits on it, his hand resting on his chest.

"Well there is Dormitory Sleeping Room, it can hold a maximum of 12 people. It is 5 sp a person per night. Hot water provided for morning ablutions, as well as hot tea and bread at no extra charge in the morning." Ostler says.

Ostler's prices are a bit high you notice at least from travel you've had before but then again he doesn't have any competition within 2 days travel.

Eoral opens his eyes wide at the sight of the coin. "Well... thank you!" He says and begins to count them.

OOC:
How much for each one then?

Seralessa takes her purse and offers the coins the priest gave to her. "Add this to the pool if we are going to share everything."

Velox stood and said, "Ok everyone, enough is enough. I'm going to head out to the area that was described to me. I'd love the company of those who'd agreed to join me in this quest against the bandits, but if you're going to worry about drink and food when there are lives at stake, then catch up when you can. Now who's with me?"

Seralessa nods to Velox and turns to Ailishi and Larmiun. "I suppose you will come back here to sleep? Or have these good soldiers also offered you shelter for the night?"

"Well I'll be happy to join you good sir, for an equal share of any treasure we find." Furnok responds quickly.

Elmo responds "Well I'll go with you if you can get me some armor and an axe, I'll only take half share since I need equipment of whatever we find."

"So far we haven't been invited to rest there for the night. So I guess we will use two beds in that common room."

He looks to the others. "If the interrogation is over... can we have a drink in peace? I am sure everyone can use a rest. Everyone except that good fellow, of course." he says pointing to Velox.

"Best of lucks, pal."

"Lives are always at danger I'm sure you have eaten and rested at some point. Do we have knowledge of people being under duress at this very moment?"

Velox said to those who volunteered, "Sure, come along, we can stop by the smith's on the way out of town. Oh and, Burne approved those who were with me for this trip, so someone from those who want to lollygag around here may want to go ask permission from Burne as well..."

And with that he left the tavern and headed to the blacksmith’s home, not looking back to see who would follow.

"We might as well go with him. Gotta get this show on the road eventually," Albrecht commented, following after Velox.

"How do you plan on adventuring endlessly with no rest? You understand that our spellcasters need rest to regain spells?"

Seralessa puts a hand on Elmo's shoulder. "Good for you! It seems you have given the first step into enjoying a lot of adventures, just like your brother!"

Velox, Elmo, and Furnok leave with Albrecht not far behind.

"Hey 'old' man, how long do you need for your magic to recover?"

Himo considers that the young female probabaly has all the energy she needs to continue adventuring the evening.

Ailishi sees the time passing by. "Hey Larmiun. Get ready. We have a dinner to enjoy."

"So what will you lot be having?" Ostler asks.

The Old Man, his hood pulled low over his face, snores loudly in response to Himo's question, having evidently fallen asleep at some point between rounds.

OOC: If someone wakes me up and "fills me in" the Old Man will need 8 hours of rest to recover his spells. :p

Seralessa looks at the old man and chuckles. "Lucky him... he won't need to pay for a room." Then she look to the tavernkeeper. "I will have the cheapest thing I can get for dinner."

"So one plain dinner for the lass and a cup of ale, I'll get that ready while the others decide." Ostler says moving to work on his stove top.

"Do you have anything that's all fruits nuts and vegetabls?"

"Aye lad I can get you that, since you aren't having meat be the same cost as a plain dinner. What will ye have to drink" Ostler responds while he's starting to ladle out Saralessa's meal.

"Oh water please, can't go getting tipsy if I"m to adventure in the morning."

Larmiun stands up. "I wish you all a good meal. I am going to get mine now." He follows Ailishi to the soldiers' house.

Ailishi and Larmiun leaves the Welcome Wench and head back up the road. (OOC: New thread for you guys).

Ostler prepares both Saralessa's meal and Himo's meal putting them before them. "That'll be 5 silver each and well 4 coppers for ale the lady has."

The old man continues to snore softly, either exhausted or simply napping in the way that older humans do, seemingly oblivious to the interactions and people leaving around him.

OOC: Pretty much I need my 8 hours of sleep, and I'm an old man, so... yeah. :p

Himo hands 5 Silver to the server, as sliding money to someone is for shady business not legal type!

"Thank you that was ready rather quickly"

"Wow..., you won't drink anything with that?"

"yes I will drink water."

After the meal, Seralessa goes to sleep. She may come down with a blanket to put on the poor old man.

Ostler notes Seralessa brining Milander a blanket "Hey if he's sleeping he's got to pay!"

"Fair enough but this is hardly a comfortable room I think he should get a reduced rate..."

*wipes at his lips with some type of napkin*

"Food is good by the way."

Ostler smiles at Himo's compliment "Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it."

He thinks a moment "I suppose if he sleeps down here on the floor a silver will cover it but I'm not responsible if anyone takes off with his stuff, I'll be asleep myself after dark, I'm not a golem afterall."

The old man continues to snore softly, his face far more peaceful and content than when he was awake.

Hands the fellow another Silver coin.

"My skills as a negotiator are unappreciated!"

(We can move to morning but you still can't make it to the moathouse before I find out what the others are doing :) )

It is morning and you are waking up :)

Himo prays briefly again and gathers his things, going down to the main area to wait on the others as well as check on the old man.

Milander is still snoring where you left him last night when you come downstairs.

"Decissions decissions, do I let him sleep or wake him up....old Humans need their rest, and soft foods."

"We also need breakfast." Seralessa adds taking a seat next to the old man.

The old man seems content and peaceful, his hawkish face for once placid and serene as he snuggles contentedly against the blanket that had been placed on him. In fact, he seemed more agreeable asleep than he had ever seemed while awake.

"Should we order a hot infusion and hot bread, Himo?" She looks at the stairs, waiting for the two good for nothing she has been traveling with to walk down.

"Myself I usually don't eat first thing when I get up, I'm more of an early lunch type. but suit yourself, the old man will sleep until we wake him I believe."

"Can we have a glass of water for the old man too, please?"

"Is that for him to drink to wake up or are you going to pour it on him because....."

Seralessa splashes the water on the old man's face. "Rise and shine, old man! It is a wonderful day!"

The common room upstairs had hot rolls.

Hot infusion is just hot water to take a bath in using clean cloth an towell :).

Water is free.

The old man starts and splutters, waking abruptly as he wipes the water from his face. Glaring at the girl the old man growls, "Hatchlings are always biting off more than they can swallow. You'll regret this." he says, his voice growing icy calm.

Looking about to get his bearings, the Old Man says, "I need some breakfast, and then weren't we supposed to be killing something?" he asks bruskly, ordering whatever meat was available.

"I was under the impression we were to rescue someone. tho we might have to kill someone else to rescue the other so there is hope...."

"Oh well... just make sure I won't be able to act on my regret then, old man."
She sits and calmly eats her breakfast.

The old man will read his book as he eats, chuckling and nodding to himself as he points to an entry within saying, "Yes... that should do nicely." he says shooting an ugly smile at the precocious rogue.

The old man then frowns at Himo. "I hope you are right. Rescuing some fool that got themselves caught seems like a bad idea in principle, but gold's gold. No good is going to come from messing with that temple though, mark my words."

"Having something bad happen to you dosn't mean you are some fool. Or did some 'fool' get water dumped on himself a few moments ago?"

Himo reaches up and taps his temple with a finger to indicate thought.

"mmmmm havn't thought of it that way did you?"

"Well what do you want for breakfast. The rolls and such are free up in the common room, you want more than that you'll have to pay." Ostler says.

The old man glares and says darkly,"You live long enough and you learn the difference between a hatchling making a foolish decision that will be addressed when they least expect it, and a fool who gets themselves captured." before turning to the innkeeper. Meat. Rare enough it was just scared by the fire. And lots of it."

"Ugh rare meat, Ill go have a roll and some water thanks."

"Bread, some tea and dry meat, please." She says to the innkeeper with a smile.

"When they least expect it? You should hurry then, old man. At your age, you can't afford to be patient." She giggles while she waits for breakfast.

Himo goes to the buffet table upstairs and easily finds rolls and water to feed himself.

Ostler looks at the mad wizard a bit "Rare you say, aren't you worried about worms? No sirree we won't have it rare here, I'll leave it a little pink for you but I'm not having you get worms and blame ole Ostler"

He puts some meat in his skillet to warm. While that's sizzling he gets some jerkey and tea for Seralessa. "That'll be 5 sp each."

He turns over the meat and seems satisfied after about 3 minutes when he plates it and puts it before Milander

The old man raises a bushy eyebrow at Seralessa, but Ostler drops the plate in front of him before he can reply. With a grunt he slaps the 5 silver onto the table as he grabs the meat with his other hand, holding it onto the plate as he rips at it with his teeth, clearly enjoying himself. "Not bad. A bit overcooked but still plump and juicy." he says in between bites, for once genuinely pleased.

Finishing quickly he wipes his face with his sleave and stands up abruptly. "Well, what're we waiting around here for? We got things to do!"

Ailishi and Larmiun come downstairs to join the rest of the crew having arrived later after their meal and slept.

The party is fed, so where hall you go?

The old man, makes his way to the man called "Burne", muttering vaguely about young hot-heads tearing off and getting themselves killed.

Seralessa hits the table as soon as she sees Larmiun and Ailishi walking down the stairs.
"It was time for you to wake up! What did you find with your soldier?"

"Some news." Larmin says as he walks down the stairs and goes to the table.

"I would like some bread and tea and maybe a ration for the road?. By the way, Geoffry sends his regards." He asks the innkeeper, not liking to stuff his stomach too early.

"As I was saying our enemy seems to have a banner of sorts. A black hand is painted in their shields and armors. Do that rings you a bell? We may find some hobgoblins among the bandits for sure. About this temple, it has been sealed. At least the lower levels. Which means it is definitely the kind of place a group of bandits would take as a base."

Ostler motions upstairs then says "There's a whole table of bread upstairs, how'd you miss that. Tea is available though for five coppers. You wanting a days ration for the road? I can fix you up a day's rations for six silvers."

He is pouring a cup of tea. The tea is hot you can tell and plenty dark. He puts a small container of cream near it

Larmiun happily pays to Ostler.

"We should prepare to leave as soon as possible. So noone has ever heard of the Black Hand?"

Ostler shakes his head negatively. "I've not heard of one using such, certainly would not portend well, a Black Hand, seems to me might be evil in nature."

Has anyone left yet or asked directions to where they might find Burne?

OOC: I had, but I'll do whatever to make it easy.


At the new commotion, the old man stops in his tracks and impatiently makes his way back to the others, still grumbling. "Buncha thieves and cut throats are mixed up in this temple too? No good will come of it. You hatchlings are definitely in over your head." he says, glaring at all of them.

Then grinning evilly he says, "But they'll have items of power and knowledge aplenty. Big risk, but even bigger reward. No where can we find this Burne character so that we can get clear directions on where we can find our pay day?"

PM

"We can always ask." Seralessa says and turns to Ostler. "Excuse me, do you know where we can find Burne?"

"Of course I do m'lady. When you leave the Wench go north til you come to the first fork in the road, take the right fork. Go past the blacksmiths and there will be another fork in the road, take the left fork. Just stay on that til you come to the tower, Burne and Rufus will no doubt be in the tower at this time of morning." Ostler tells Seralessa.

Ailishi gets ready and also buys a ration from Ostler. "Maybe we should just go find Velox and the others. He said he already met Burne, after all."

Ostler sales the ration.

(What are the rest of you up to? I had been waiting to respond hoping others would post first :) )

In reply to DM (msg # 225):

Milander is waiting for everyone so that they can go meet Burne.

OOC: I hope you guys don't mind but I'm going to move you along some.

Having finished breakfast and got enough supplies for the day the party leaves the Welcome Wench and head's to the guardtower to have their own meeting with Burne. They follow the directions of Ostler and easily find the proper path following his directions. As you come upon the construction site you see men unloading a couple of wagons that must have arrived late yesterday or early today. A guard seeing you asks of your business and directs you to the tower.

Following the path you come to Burne's Guard Tower and are ushered into the main hall by a member of Burne's Badgers. At a desk you see a man younger than you expected he seems to be going through some papers. He has no obvious weapons. A quick eye shows him to be physically fit though, more so than your typical wizard.

After a moment he looks up towards you.

Burne smiles as he looks up. "Can I help you adventurers?"

Ailishi nods and bows his head. "Greetings Burne. I am Ailishi Urcmon. With me, Larmium Dol'Uten, Seralessa Vadmal, Milander Vos Drago and Himo. We have been appointed by Viscount Wilfrick to hunt down the bandits of the area. We would like to know what advice or useful information you can give us to finnish our task."

OOC:
07:24, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 11 using 1d20+8.  Diplomacy.

OOC: Mind? You'll get an open mouth kiss from me DM!

Hesseth catches up to Milander along the way, and the old man cautions the snake to not bite anyone and wait outside until he is done talking to the "Hatchling in charge". Inside, the old man looks around at everything, including the paperwork Burne was working on but says nothing, letting the others handle the "pleasantries".

Burne looks over you then says with a hint of superiority "I had another group of adventurers just yesterday asking for assistance. I'll tell you as I told them, we are willing to assist as we can. However my obligation to Hommlett and seeing this fortress built prevents me from actively adventuring as I have in the past. I know the Viscount has placed a bounty for bandit scalps, you may come here to the tower to collect that bounty rather than traveling all the way back to Verbobonc. I can also help with some scrolls of an arcane nature from time to time. I might also be willing to trade a spell or two with a wizard for standard fees."

He pauses a moment looking at Milander then continues "The road to Verbobonc seems to stay clear enough. It is the roads east of town that seem to have the most attacks. The attacks have been growing and trade is down to a trickle in that direction. If their base is to be found it probably would have to have easy access to the eastern roads."

"Trade for spells sounds good. East... think they're holed up in that Temple Serten was killed at?" the old man says, continuing to look around in his doddering manner.

"I doubt it, from what was told the temple was laid to waste. It's exact location has been lost, perhaps intentionally lost. It was said to lay north and east of Hommlett along an old forgotten road." Burne responds.

Ailishi just shrugs. "Then I guess we are ready to move. Anyone wants to ask for something?"

"Nope. We know which way to go now. Let's get a move on." the old man says, ready to be moving as he turns to go to the door.

"St Cuthbert be with you my friends" Burne says as you depart.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Wed 31 Jan 2018.

Milander provides a dismissive wave of his hand, and is already heading to their next destination.

You leave Hommlett by the east road out of town, the road where rumors of bandits persist and that trade has been severely halted. You are not well equipped, this being among your first adventures. Yet you are strong in heart, some seeking fortunes, others fame, and others to just help. Together you might accomplish the impossible, fight demons and gods and restore balance to the kingdom.

You continue out of town for an hour, you know now you are beyond the watchful eye of Burne's Guard Tower. What are you doing?

The old man moved forward slowly, foraging and keeping a wary eye open for traps and ambushes. He continued to glare at the noisier members of the group, grumbling about how much of a "racket" they were making.

Larmiun keeps walking in silence, but with his eyes wide open. After all, they are going straight into bandit territory.

OOC:
01:55, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 14 using 1d20+4.  spot check.

Ailishi walks with the group in silence. There isn't a lot to say and he prefers to save his energies for the bandits.

PM

Seralessa walked last in line with her dagger at hand.

Could those that haven't make a spot check?

Thank you.

"This road ain't been used in a while. Probably leads to the temple or an ambush... that's what I'd do." Milander says.

thanks for the poke! Sorry about not posting.

Does the group wish to go along the path that Milander spotted, the lesser used path? or do you wish to continue along the main road?

OOC:
14:40, Today: Seralessa Vadmal rolled 19 using 1d20.  Spot check.
Wow, got lucky.

Seralessa just nods. The hidden road may be an important clue.

Larmiun prepares his short bow and follows the unused road.

Seralessa spots the same road that Milander sees just before he points it out. The party decides to take this spot. As you travel along the path you notice that the amount of ground seems to shrink into a path barely wide enough for two people. Marsh seems to intrude heavily upon the area.

Milander will use his walking stick/staff to prove the ground in front of him, to make sure it isn't too soft as he presses forward. He looks for signs of people coming down this path recently as well.

Seralessa tries to move slowly and silently, paying attention to her surroundings.

OOC:
19:15, Today: Seralessa Vadmal rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Move Silently.
19:15, Today: Seralessa Vadmal rolled 14 using 1d20.  Spot check.

Larmiun follows the group without questions.

After some time you see a large pond up ahead. The marshy ground makes it difficult to tell if anyone has passed before. You do spot something large in the pond near the shore closest to where you are walking. As you get closer and closer it becomes obvious that it is a large amphibian, it's quiet dead. Someone even took the time to slice it open.

Milander and Seralessa being druids estimate the giant frog has been dead less than 12 hours.

"Something killed this creature." Seralessa whispers and she tries to find some clues of who or what did this.

OOC:
04:17, Today: Seralessa Vadmal rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Search.

Ailishi doesn't know how to help them aside checking the surroundings for incoming dangerous creatures or signs of the battle.

OOC:
07:21, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Spot.

There is a path that goes along the western edge of the pond and continues along the makeshift road.

The marsh terrain makes it very difficult for Seralessa to find any useful tracks.

Milander looks around, seemingly wandering aimlessly as he suspiciously eyes the ground where he walks. His ginger probing and muttering is only accented by Hesseth's flickering tounge as it probes the air around them.

"Keep close." Ailishi says to everyone, pointing 10 ft off the pond. "There is another giant frog there." He readies his Kusari Gama

PM to Milander

"Bah, leave it alone. The other four hatchlings seem to have survived it... if barely. But they were well armed. Well, enough sight-seeing, we going back to that road or not?" the old man says, gesturing imperiously along the western end of the pond.

"I want to let it alone. Will it want to let us alone? That is the real question here."

Ailishi slowly walks along the road.

Seraless is going to nvestigate the area, but steps backward when she hears that there are giant frogs nearby.

"Yes... let's go. Now!"

Larmiun readies his bow and aims to where Ailishi points. He is not going to shoot unless the frog attacks first, he just wants to move with the group without being attacked.

OOC: DO you guys have a marching order?

OOC: I have no problems being at the head.

OOC: I don't want to be at the head. I prefer to be in the middle.

OOC: Seralessa has some scout skill but she also heals. Maybe. So behind Ailishi?

Okay so the marching order is:

Ailishi
Larmiun
Seralessa
Milander

The Giant Frog is attacking Ailishi, I'll resolve when I get off work today.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:29, Thu 08 Mar 2018.

Yeah, I'll be last.

OOC: If the frog attacks, then it triggers Larmiun's readied action

18:39, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 3 using 1d6.  Arrow damage.
18:37, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Ready: Attack with bow.

Larmiun shoots his bow and hits the Giant Frog



Giant Frog tags Ailishi with its tongue.

Giant Frog's tongue attaches to Ailishi.

Initiative:

07:09, Today: DM, for the NPC Giant Frog, rolled 21 using 1d20+5.

07:04, Today: DM, on behalf of Larmiun Dol'Uten, rolled 14 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

07:08, Today: DM, on behalf of Seralessa Vadmal, rolled 13 using 1d20+4.

07:03, Today: DM, on behalf of Ailishi Urcmon, rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

07:08, Today: DM, on behalf of Milander Vos Drago, rolled 1 using 1d20-5.  Initiative.

Begin Round One.

07:10, Today: DM, on behalf of Ailishi Urcmon, rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Grapple Check.

07:12, Today: DM, for the NPC Giant Frog, rolled 16 using 1d20+8.  Grapple Check.

The Giant Frog draws Ailishi into the water and twoards it. Ailishi is now 5' from the mouth of the Giant Frog.


Larmiun's turn, use OOC if ya'll want to form a strategy like at a table game. The Giant Frog is about the size of angus bull. Feel free to post you action if you know what it will be :)

Larmiun moves to have a better angle to attack and then he extends his hand to unleash a ray of fire to the giant frog.


OOC:
Move: Move 15 ft away, so Larmiun will have a clear shot against the frog

Standard: Manifest Energy Ray fire
23:36, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 20 using 1d20+2.  Energy Ray Fire attack.
23:36, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 6 using 1d6+1.  Fire Damage.

Seralessa remembers some basic animal anatomy and prepares to throw her dagger to the frog.

It lands on a tree.

OOC:
Move: Move to 10ft away of the Frog
Standard: Attack with Cunning Insight
03:23, Today: Seralessa Vadmal rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  Ranged Attack with Cunning Insight.

Larmiun easily hits the Giant Frog with his fire ray damaging it.

Seralessa strikes the Giant Frog with her dagger, please roll damage. (OOC: Remember a creature/character grappled to another loses it's dexterity bonus to AC, and it is a large creature so you hit :) )

Need actions for Ailishi and Milander.

Ailishi tries to break free from the frog's tongue.

OOC:
04:57, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Grapple check.

Seralessa's dagger strikes the Giant Frog for 4 points.

Ailishi breaks free from the frog's tongue.

Milander it is your turn.

Milander grumbles and with a mutters and a gesture, the swamp whispers as a man-sized wolf appears behind the frog and attacks it, trying to trip it, even as Hesseth could protectively around the old man and hisses.

sorry, thought I posted.

(OOC: It happens and its possible RPOL ate your post before, thanks for posting)

A Wolf appears and attacks the Giant Frog from behind.


The Wolf appears to have been trying to trip the Frog in addition to biting it but sadly the much larger Frog doesn't even budge.

Begin Next Round

"Ribbit" goes the Giant Frog as it turns to face the foolish Wolf.

The Frog bites at the Wolf clamping tight with its jaws and swallowing. The Wolf dies.

Larmiun your turn
Then Seralessa
Then Ailishi
Then Milander

"Hey, we are here, frog!"

Larmiun moves closer to the frog and sends a ray of fire with his fingertip.

OOC:
Move: Move to a position where he can shoot at the frog without anyone between them.
Standard: Manifest Energy Ray
02:38, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Energy Ray Fire attack.
02:38, Today: Larmiun Dol'Uten rolled 6 using 1d6+1.  Fire Damage.

Larmiun decides to take just a 5' step and shoot his ray. He strikes the frog damaging it. The frog isn't looking to good at this point, another hit or two probably will finish it off you guys figure.

Seralessa
Ailish
Milander

You guys are up next in that order :)

"Damned beast!"

Seralessa had thrown her dagger to the frog, and she was now powerless to continue attacking the creature. She stepped back, giving space for the others to finnish it.

OOC:
Move back 30 feat.

Ailishi you are up.
Then Milander

Ailishi sees himself free from the frog and swings his Kusari Gama against the animal. He too would have wanted it to stay back.

OOC:
07:21, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Attack.
07:22, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Damage.

Ailishi wades into the water and attacks the frog. The frog looks a little queasy at this point but is still up.

Milander your go

Again the old man barks a command as he strikes his staff against the ground, and another wolf appears, savaging the Frog from behind.

The Giant Frog succumbs to his injuries and perishes to the bite of the wolf.

Well done :)

Now what do you guys/gals do?

Ailishi sighs. "You should have stayed with your little ones, pal. Does anyone want to lunch?"
I would be a shame to waste all that meat in its legs.

"None of us are so rich that we can leave anything behind, but let's not dawdle. Those bandits are just getting stronger.

Larmiun searches for as many dry leaves and woods he can and starts a fire with his flint and steel.
"Someone cut the frog's legs..."

Ailishi swiftly kneels at the side of the frog's corpse and begins to peel the meat of its leg. "Someone finds some sticks!"

Milander begins to field dress the frog to be carried so that they can take it with them.

OOC: Taking 10 on survival

"I should have carry a pan with me." Seralessa begins to search for sticks to roast the frog legs.

Larmiun gets a fire going

Ailishi and Milander break down the carcass.

Seralessa finds some sticks suitable for roasting meat over Larmiun's fire.

Ailishi gives each a piece of frog meat and happily sits by the fire, watching it get roasted.

Seralessa also joins the meal. Full bellies make happpy faces.

"What do you think this is, a picnic?" the old man snaps, after he is done breaking down the carcass. "We might be approaching bandits who had killed the last big frog, and we're certainly heading to hunt more of them, with our only allies racing ahead as if they get a prize for being the first ones to get killed... and you build a fire to make a snack so that we might have to setup camp in a swamp? Only a green would do something like that." he grumbled.

"You are welcome to go ahead of us. And don't raise your voice. Remember, there may be bandits around." Ailishi continues eating the frog.

"Oho! The hatchling thinks he's clever does he? That my voice carries further than the smoke from that wet wood?" he says pointing at the smoking fire they were comfortably around. "And in your great experience, oh wise hatchling, are you content to know that people might be dying while you dawdle? Is your full bully going to keep you warm and cozy while you content yourselves after besting a mighty frog? I WILL be going ahead. Consider yourselves fortunate that I will leave a trail that even that one can find." he snaps, pointing at Seralessa, before whirling away carrying his load of frog meat and cutting some healthy portions for his snake. And with that, he grumblingly makes his way forward.

"Yes... well, good luck in not getting your meat spoiled."
He continues to eat till he is satiated.

Larmiun finishes his meat and gets ready to be on the road again, readying his crossbow.

Those of you eating are enjoying a good meal.

Seralessa finishes her meal and drinks some water before getting up. "Let's get going."

After finishing his meal, Ailishi gets ready to continue on the road.

I was waiting for MIlander to post but will move on.

You easily follow Milander's trail, you eventually come to a ruined drawbridge, that has holes through it. It is down over a murky moat.

Milander is examining the structure.

Everyone make Listen checks :)

Nothing to see here, move along.

PM


Note that despite it's holes you believe the drawbridge is passable by Medium sized creatures or smaller.

Ailishi looks at the old man.

OOC:
07:22, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Listen check.

Seralessa walks to the bridge.

OOC:
07:22, Yesterday: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Listen check.

Nothing to see

Hesseth slithers onto the drawbridge looking to and fro as he goes, even poking his head down into a hole or two seeing if it was safe.

Larmiun gets a peek.

The old man seems to be concentrating.

Seralessa scratches her head.

Seralessa is searching the drawbridge


Larmiun is looking over the drawbridge but not on it.



Hesseth continues to look and smell the drawbridge, being on it just like Seralessa.


You hear a voice from the other side of the drawbridge call out

"Watch yourselves!" calls the first voice

Followed quickly by Incoming! by a second voice. You now clearly hear a scuffle not to far away maybe a crossbow shot away.

You can make listen checks to see if you recognize the voices.....at the moment though the swampy conditions you do not see them.

Oh and everyone needs to roll initiative....

Ailishi tries to find something to hide behind something, anything.

OOC:
19:48, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Listen.
19:46, Today: Ailishi Urcmon rolled 7 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Seralessa takes her dagger and seeks cover in the bridge.

The old man grumbles and begins to shuffle forward slowly after a moment of listening, well after the others had already started to move.

"The bridge should be able to support our weight... but only one of us at the time."

Larmiun prepares his shortbow, aiming it to the other side of the moat.

"I can cover you from here if you want to pass the bridge."

Okay folks lets this rolling, note everyone should be posting in this thread starting after this post for at least this battle.

Current Initiative:

Ailishi        21
Furnok         21
Velox          19
Albrecht       15
Bandit Leader  14
Larmiun         9
Elmo            9
Seralessa       7
Bandits         4
Milander       -4

Ailishi (and everyone else that rolled a listen more than 5) recognize the voices as Velox and Albrecht.

Ailishi you are up first, you cannot see the other group from your current position, you would have to cross the drawbridge, it is fortunate that Velox and them had surprise on the bandits who had surpise on you or this could of been a lot messier.

Other folks can post actions as they want, Velox, Elmo, Furnok and Albrecht are all in melee combat with various bandits, two of whom fell in the surprise round (the ones Velox and Elmo struck to move us along.

Anyone with Ailishi will have to cross the bridge first before seeing the enemy. The Drawbridge is approximately 15' long.

Albrecht brings his axe to bare against his foe in two blinding motions, but neither are particularly accurate in his haste.

OOC: Hopefully someone gets some flanking going... otherwise this is a whiff lol.

15:42, Today: Albrecht Delmorn rolled 8,12 using 1d20+4,1d20+4.  Sapphire Nightmare Blade, PA -2.

"Great! Do it! I am going!" Ailishi runs to the other side of the bridge spinning his Kusari Gama.

In reply to Ailishi Urcmon (msg # 322):

Velox brings his flail down on another enemy feeling the satisfying crunch of contact.


OOC:
If he’s able to without provoking AoO’s he will step closer to the bandit leader to aid Furnok.
09:48, Today: Velox rolled 14 using 1d10+4.  Damage.
09:48, Today: Velox rolled 18 using 1d20+5.  To hit (flail).
This message was last edited by the player at 13:57, Sat 14 Apr 2018.

Ailishi crosses the bridge and he spots the others in a melee combat with what appears to be some surprised bandits. Do you have a missile weapon if so you could fire on a bandit.

Furnok's blade finds a weak spot in the Bandit Leader's chain mail and digs in deep into the man drawing blood, but failing to kill the Bandit Leader.

The only person in melee combat with Velox is the crossbowman still standing with a crossbow, as such he cannot make an AoO. Velox moves up to aid Furnok and his flail smashes into the chest of the Bandit Leader bringing him down.


Albrechts one strike does hit (the crossbowman is only wearing leather...). You need to roll damage.

After Albrecht's damage roll since the Bandit Leader is now down it will be Larmiun's turn.

03:11, Today: Albrecht Delmorn rolled 14 using 1d12+8.  Damage.

The Crossbowman is dead.

3 Bandits remain at this point, note the group coming from town except for Ailishi now cannot yet see the bandits.

1 bandit is dressed in padded with a shield and has a longword and 3 javelins, he is currently holding a javelin.

1 bandit has a halberd and is dressed in studded leather

1 bandit has a spear in his hand and is dressed in leather with a wooden shield. He also has a shortsword.

Once you cross the bridge which takes a move action you can see the bandits.

Larmiun rushes to cross the bridge with the firm intention to secure it. As soon as he crosses, he moves to a side to let the others pass and fires an arrow to the first enemy in sight.

Seralessa follows Larmiun dagger in hand, but insted of keeping a distance, she continues moving where the conflict is.

Larmiun hits one with an arrow but fails to drop the fellow, a moment later Elmo's axe strikes into the back of the fellow and he falls. (This was the guy with the halberd...determined by random roll)

Seralessa crosses the bridge and continues past Larmiun with only a dagger in hand and heads to take on the bandits.

The two bandits withdraw and head off into the marsh one going north and the other going west.

Milander's turn.

The old man shuffles up, squints, and then points, muttering, and the plants begin to writhe.

Milander's spell catches the bandit moving north as roots spring up and grab his feet holding him tight.

Ailishi's go :)

Ailishi doesn't doubt in charging against the bandit that is trying to escape, with full intent of piercing his flesh with the blade of his kusari-gama

Which one are you charging?

Faerrash had not left with the group for he still wasn't completely sure about them.  His background had not been one in which a lot of trust had been shown towards his kind.  So after they left he had followed them through the brush but far enough back that they couldn't see him.  He wanted to watch them and make sure they were what he had hoped they were.

When the group came to the bridge Faerrash was a little worried.  This would make it hard for him to stay hidden, for he would have to cross the bridge as well.  He stayed back a bit and when the first group had crossed, something happened as he heard combat up ahead.  He hoped they were okay, so he crept up to where he could get a look.

Ailishi charges down the bandit to the west and kills him.

Furnok having no missile weapon decides to start searching the Bandit Leader

Velox your go

Seeing all of the other bandits down and the bandit running and caught, and knowing that information could be invaluable, Velox charged the captive bandit and knocked him out with a massive blow from his flail.

OOC:
11:16, Today: Velox rolled 21 using 2d10+8.  Non lethal damage. (That was a 9 and a 4 on the dice by the way)
11:16, Today: Velox rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Confirm Crit.
11:16, Today: Velox rolled 23 using 1d20+3.  To hit flail - Charge + non lethal penalty accounted for.

Velox drops the last of the Bandits.

Albrecht, now that the dangers are gone, begins looting the dead. "Luckily for you all, we saw the bandits coming to ambush you after you started that fire. Maybe next time, try to be a bit less conspicuous?" he commented with a wry grin to anyone within earshot.

"Lucky for you we have come to help you in the last moment." Larmiun chuckled and begun to loot the bodies too.

"I did try and warn tye idiots, but I'm just an old man, what do I know about living a long time?" the old man says waspishly, also going through the bodies. "I hope you left one of 'em alive to question."

Faerrash was still hidden in the brush behind the group as they seemed to take care of business with the bandits.

Deciding it was time to show himself Faerrash strode out onto the road with his hand up.  Greetings again friends.  I see that you have managed against these bandits.  I hope my song aided your strikes.

Velox laughed at Milander's jest about his age and said, "Aye, I kept my wits about me and made sure just to knock this fella out. We can revive him and get him to speak. The first question is whether he's seen the Druid's Aspirant and if so, where is she?"

He paused and then said, "I am glad you finished up at the tavern and decided to give chase. We camped out after taking out a few frogs and then when we got here we had to take care of a few more frogs, a big spider and what was that other thing, oh yeah a giant adder. But a few well placed blows by Albrecht. Elmo, Furnok and I and they weren't too much trouble..."

His greeting and recap completed he started to smack the bandit that he'd knocked out awake and tried his best to revive him. "I'd hate to have to waste a spell on this fella, anyone else know how to wake someone up without throwing them in the river? Seems to me the frogs might eat him before he could answer our questions afterall."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:24, Wed 25 Apr 2018.

"You are not just an old man, you are also just a senile imbecile. Otherwise your age would have been proof of a far greater power than we have. Something clearly you don't show. Do you really expect us to follow your lead?" Seralessa doesn't even turn to Milander, she just walks to the surviving bandit, nodding to everyone else.

She kneels at the fallen bandit's side. "First, we should make sure he can still endure anything we do to him."

PMs


Will finish when I get home and can add the treasure PMs, note unless your a thief folks will probably notice you trying to pocket anything.

Ailishi was going to say something but he happily begins to loot the bandit he has just killed.

You discover as a group that the Bandit Leader is dying but not really dead yet. I assume you will bind up his wounds and he stabilizes, as he might be more knowledgeable than the bandit Velox subdued.

Treasure

Bandit Leader
     Gold Chain  --Around his neck
   2 Cistrines  -- Also in Belt Pouch
     Belt Pouch (Which has 13 PP and 17 SP in it)
     Chain Mail
     Light Steel Shield
     Spear
     Longsword

Bandit 1
     Padded Armor
     Light Wooden Shield
     Short Sword
     3 Javelins
     Small Belt Pouch (with 6 SP)

Bandit 2 (Currently unconscious Bandit Velox hit)
     Leather Armor
     Light Wooden Shield
     Spear
     Hand Axe
     Small Belt Pouch (with 7 SP)

Bandit 3
     Leather Armor
     Short Sword
     Light Crossbow
     10 Crossbow Bolts
     Small Belt Pouch (with 8 SP)


Bandit 4
     Leather Armor
     Club
     Light Crossbow
     10 Crossbow Bolts
     Small Belt Pouch (with 11 SP)


Bandit 5
     Leather Armor
     Light Mace
     Light Crossbow
     10 Crossbow Bolts
     Small Belt Pouch (with 11 SP)


Bandit 6
     Studded Leather Armor
     Halberd
     Small Belt Pouch (with 4 SP)

Faerrash said, yes I did see you all enjoying the meals you found.  After you left the area I too enjoyed some of the parts of the frog you all didnt finish eating.  So, where are you all heading to?

As Faerrash continued he strode among he old companions to see if any were injured.

Albrecht collected the coins and put them all together with ones they'd found earlier for later dividing, assuming everyone was okay with it. "I would like to request some form of ranged weapon, even if I am not very skilled with them. Perhaps a crossbow and some bolts?" he asked, looking at the draconic man with a blank expression before it dawned on him who he was. "Ah, Faerrash, nice to have you back. We could have used the help earlier, but... better late than never," he laughed.

OOC: PPs are 10x Gold, right? I'm assuming we didn't find any gold on the Adder either? Right now I think we have 400 gold, and the haul from this encounter, to divide. How many of us are there?

Current Party:

Players:

Ailishi
Arbrecht
Faerrash
Larmiun
Milander
Seralessa
Velox


NPCs:

Elmo (Elmo agreed to join for just a half share, after he pays off his axe and armor) Elmo's kinda happy go lucky (and seems drunk most of the time, but seems to sober up when there is fighting going on).
Furnok (Furnok agreed to join for a share) he's probably going to object to sharing with what was found prior to the others joining with them :).


Yep 10 GP to 1 PP :)

I'm not sure of the total I'll have to check back on that but if you keeping good track that might be good, might want to appraise that gold chain and those small gems too :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:41, Thu 26 Apr 2018.

Elmo looks around "Not bad" he says almost to himself.

He notices the others have come "Good to see you again Seralessa, I hope you found enough flowers."

Furnok takes out a magnifying glass and seems to be examining the gems "Ah uh uh" he says while doing so "Yep what I thought". He then tells you "These are worth maybe 50 gold a piece"

He then takes the gold chain and looks over it, his interest seems to peak a bit more on this one "I'd say this would fetch a couple hundred gold"

Milander, raised an eyebrow at Seraleesa, and then grinned slyly as she walked towards the unconscious bandit. "Knowledge is power, such as the knowledge on how to wake up someone unconscious." he says, as he mutters a word and snaps his fingers and a gallon of water douses both Seraleesa and the bandit as the old man cackles as he and his man-sized snake go to look over the various items collected, casting a spell to detect magic to see if any we're... More special than they appeared.

PM

Velox secured the bandit with a rope and then prayed a brief prayer as he stood over him, his flail at the ready to put the man out of his misery.

"So, you and your boys like to prey on those who happen to be passing by... Too bad I and my boys got the jump on you. Bet you didn't expect the assault to be coming from behind, now did ya? That's beside the point though. You'll be telling me about your outfit, but more importantly about whether you've seen and captured a young woman, an aspirant of a local druid in the past few days. Tell the truth and I'll ensure you are spared. Tell us nothing or lies and I have no problem letting my friends here do their worst."

OOC: Cast Cure Minor Wound after tying the bandit up.

Milander said nothing, but Hesseth slid forward, hissing and rearing up menacingly at the man Velox talked to. "Hesseth seems hungry." he says conversationally.

(Aid other on gather info/intimidate?)

Larmiun gets closer to the surviving bandit. He too wants answers. "The rest of the bandits. I want number, names, I want the locations of the hideouts and the places of every trap we may found as any password you may be using to recognize each other. Tell me all I need, and I will spare the lives of your loved ones. Don't do it, and I will kill those who you care the most slowly and painfully. Now think of them, and tell me the truth."

Seralessa feels the water falling upon her and immediately knows what is happening. "Exactly. Knowledge is power and you seem awfully dependant on your spells to do even the most basic things. Showing that your knowledge is extremely limited. Don't overstimate your power, senile old man. You may soon discover how pathetic it is."

"Yes, be a good man and tell us everything we need." Ailishi grins and swings his kusari gama just two inches away from the bandit leader's face.

OOC: Seralessa wasn't at the Bandit Leader she was at the other bandit that Velox subdued, and thus that bandit is awake not the leader. The leader is in significant negative hp total and probably would require more than one spell (unless you got lucky) to bring to consciousness. So I'm assuming all intimidation efforts were against him. It wasn't discovered that the other was still alive until a few post later :)


The bandit jerks to consciousness as the water soaks him. "What?!" he exclaims.

He looks a bit frightened. "I don't know. We take our orders from someone called The Beautiful, that's all I know. I've never met em. I'm not even sure where The Beautiful is located. We give him half then split the rest among us. I think we've been paying to much seeing as how today's gone!"

He points over to the other fellow "That's our leader, his name is Geoff, he might know more."

Velox's eyes follow the bandit's pointing and he sees the bandit leader near death. He moves over to the man's side and prays, feeling a rush of Trithereon's blessing pouring out into the man and then quickly moves to secure his wrists as the man wakes up from consciousness.

"Geoff, your man's given you up. My friends here have a number of questions, likely all pertaining to Beautiful, but before you answer those, you'd best answer me quickly. There was a young girl, an Aspirant of the local Druid near here these past few days. Did your crew see her and if so, did you set upon her? Is she alive? Your answer will determine your fate."

He doesn't go so far as to threaten the man's family or even his life, he's carefully chosen his words.

The beautiful?  What a name for a leader Faerrash thought to himself.  Faerrash waited for the bandit to answer before asking, When are you supposed to be meeting this Beautiful again?  Is it always in the same spot?  These questions should be easy to answer for the bandit since he was always with.

"And we will have to determine if what they are saying is true, of course." Ailishi adds. "Bandits are not known for their honesty."

Larmiun pays attention to everything it is said.

Velox calls upon his Favored Soul and heals the Bandit Leader just enough to come too.

Faerrash while Velox was so engaged decided to question the one woken by Milander's create water spell. Ailishi and Larmiun were close by.

This bandit looked up at Faerrash a bit worried looking at the creature "They always come the second night after we raid a caravan to get their share. I've never seen the Beautiful myself, but his men are well equipped and well trained. Ask Geoff he'll tell you!"


Geoff wakes up and looks about a bit bewildered. He's not used to being on this side of an attack. "That fool Jaroo should mind his own business. What happened to the girl is his fault, no other." he pauses a moment sweat pouring off his face as he looks up at Velox and around at the rest of you "You'll find her about 100 yards that way" he says pointing west. "Well what's left of her."

Velox's face drops into a scowl as he says, "Watch him. I will see to the girl. Though he has some explaining to do if what he's implied is true."

Velox rises and walks to the west, covering the distance indicated his eyes scanning for any signs of the Aspirant.

Milander gives Hesseth a look... who slides over to the Bandit Leader and simply stares at him, while the old man totters off after Velox.