The long road leads you on a journey ending nearly 100 miles from where you began this journey in Restov.

The party of seven have finally come to their destination. It's been six long days on the flat dusty road, with the plains land south of Restov being relatively featureless. A border of calm between Brevoy and the unstable Stolen Lands. This group of men is one of four chosen to tame the country. To strike it of it's impurities and ready it to be forged into a kingdom.

The rugged fort stands tall with it's front gate open wide. A keen eye might recognize this structure as a military one. An abandoned border fort from one of many failed attempts to colonize this territory. The walls are ten feet tall and repairs can be seen all along them. At the four corners are twenty foot square watch towers. Dilapidated catapults peek over the edges. A thirty foot gate is opened wide. Drifting on the breeze is the smell of baking bread and the sound of hammering.

When the seven of you enter the gate, five on foot, two on horseback, you're met with a homely sight. Inside the fort are three buildings. A large one to the west which closely resembles a stable, a medium sized structure to the east faces a small barracks. From the house a thread of smoke rises being carried away by the wind. Standing at the top of the ladder is a stern looking man busily repairing the roof of the barracks.

As the party enters the central yard he looks over wiping his brow, "Ho there, about time you fellows show up."

While he climbs down the ladder a fetching middle aged lady exits the house carrying a clay pitcher. She spots the adventurers and runs hastily over to his side, a warm grin spreading on her face.


"My name is Oleg leveton, this is my wife, Svetlana," he says shortly, "Welcome to my trading post."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:43, Wed 29 Aug 2018.

Huffing under the weight of his pack, the elf known simply as Filarion Petxalim smiles widely. With a flourish, he bows in greeting, "Good day. I am Filarion Petxalim and here is my charter." Getting directly to business, the elf carries himself as a no nonsense, if braggadocious, person. "I'm sure we would all love to get a rest and a bath to recover from the arduous experience that is the travelers life."

Stepping forward next, Tatyana curtsies gracefully to Oleg and Svetlana. "I am Tatyana Dec'lan, and it is a pleasure to meet you. I can produce my charter if necessary, but for now it is packed away securely. Might you point me in the direction where I can slake my thirst and wash this road-dust from my throat?"

She will shake their hands in warm greeting, and assist others in getting their packs and gear stowed if asked to help.

Silas had ridden his horse off and on during the trip. As they approached the fort, he dismounted and guided the beast of burden into the central yard to greet their would be hosts.

He listened as his fellow elves began introducing themselves and then he bowed before Oleg and Svetlana saying, "May the Dead Eye keep you safe and grow this settlement into a community even he can be proud of."

He then pulled out his copy of the charter and showed it to them before tying up his horse and checking his current gear.

The journey from Restov was a long hard march to the trading post. Worst of all, Octavia was slowed down by armor. A horse would be a good thing if she ever found fortune in war. In truth, it was war, or really the hope of war that carried her out for adventure in the first place.

Her rations of hardtack and salted, tin pork filled her belly every morning and night. Luckily, the grace of her god, Gorum filled her waterskin whenever she had need. As Octavia cooked her meat, she watched the mostly elven party and their individual routines.  It was a solid group, but she wondered how things would fair during their first battle.

Finally after a long trip, Octavia was overjoyed at the sight of the fort style trading post. It was old, but with a little love the fort would be serviceable.  Octavia also noted the friendly couple that greeted them.

She waited as the elves first gave introduction, but she gave no curtsies or fancy bows. Instead, she simple nodded her head and gave Gorum's tidings. “I am Priestess Octavia Cassiana, may Gorum's might be with you. As a daughter of Gorum, I vow that my sword is at your disposal for the duration of my stay and...”  Octavia then became distracted by the smell of fresh bread baking and continued. “If you could part with some bread and wine, I would gladly pay you in gold?”
This message was last edited by the player at 09:10, Thu 08 Mar 2018.

Tauron come riding in on his donkey.  With a second creature trailing behind.
The swan that also seem to be part of his group sits on the second donkey looking around.  As Tauron is tall he looks a little oversize to be on the animal.
It clear it could not be used as war horse or move fast.
However to carry him and his items the two donkey seem quite happy.

Right at the beginning of the trip Tauron offered to carry few items for the other on his second donkey.  Easing the journey for them if they wish.

He also make sure each person has full waterskin at beginning of each day.
He always seem happy to use this little spell and said more than once how nice it is use the spell without anybody telling him off for using it.

The elf speaks  Hello Oleg leveton, lady Svetlana.  I am Tauron Alphmellon.  This.
Tauron pats the donkey he is riding.  Is Sedrick.  That.  Pointing to second donkey Is Daisy and our feather friend is Professor Swansong.

At the sound of his name the swan opens his wings up to full span and makes a Homk.  Noise.

Having traveling with Tauron for few days the other realize that the elf treats the animal in the party as equals.  At night he has small talk with his animal friend.
What clear and maybe little worrying is they understand him and talk back.

My friends and I are very grateful for your friendly welcome.

Razmatin looked rather ridiculous as he walked into camp. He had a bulging pack full of camping equipment and various sundries common for travelers on the road. In addition he had several weapons from daggers up to a bow and quiver hanging off of either his belt or pack. Strangely enough he had a large black wooden rectangular case nearly as tall as he was with straps on it so he could carry that on his back as well.

With the case strapped to his back the only room he had to carry his pack was on top of the case behind his head. In fact there was a hook on the case that allowed him to secure a strap to it. The whole thing looked as heavy as it was ridiculous. Despite others offers to carry his supplies he shrugged off offers of aid saying 'A good traveler can carry his own gear and I, for one, am a good traveler."

He had a peculiar sense of fashion with a puffy shirt with small little metal discs hanging from it that clinked as he walked. In addition to the typical browns and blacks of a traveler leathers he had a bright green jacket and a garish yellow sash that went from shoulder to waist.

As he came into camp he shrugged off his massive carrying case and gingerly rubbed his shoulders as feeling started to return to them. His mouth, framed by a meticulously groomed goatee, broadened into a bright smile.

"Ahh, greetings, salutations, ciao, and hallo! We are merry adventurers embarking on a noble quest to explore these surroundings and help resolve any local difficulties that one may encounter. We are on the first page of the first chapter of the first volume of a grand epic the likes of which the River Kingdoms have ever seen before! That being said... a bit of aid would be quite pleasant. Food and fire would be most welcome after days and miles on the road from Restov. We can offer fair payment for fair food, or we can perhaps assist you in some task or provide entertainment as a means to work for our supper."

He spoke quite rapidly with a lyrical sing-song quality to his words. From time on the trails it was known to the others that this wasn't just a performance for their hosts. Razmatin, or 'Raz' as he offered to be called, might not speak all the time but when he did it was almost always in a some overly verbose exposition.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:15, Thu 08 Mar 2018.

The half-orc waited patiently when the road weary group stopped at the gate.  He wore a large sword slung behind his back as well as several other weapons.  His heavy pack bulged with supplies and from his hand dangled a large canvas wrapped bundle tied with rope for a handle.  Road dust covered his pant legs and boots. They made their way past Olaf and finaly is was Drezghl's turn to introduce himself.  He set down his bundle with a heavy thud.

"Greetings.  I am Drezghl.  I was given a charter as well.  Thank you for allowing us to shelter here.", he said to Olaf in a gravelly voice.  "I must help my companions with their animals now."

With that, he nodded to Svetlana, picked up his bundle and began walking towards the stable.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:57, Thu 08 Mar 2018.

Oleg reads through the proffered charter and then hands it back.
“Reads just like mine. Writ by folks too proud of themselves with hardly no respect for common man or decency!”

You'll have to pardon my husband,"Svetlana apologizes, "He can be gruff at times, but his heart is solid gold. Please come, sit at our tables and I'll fetch lunch for everyone."She gestures to the two wooden tables beside the fire pit. After a small curtsy she leaves Oleg's side for the house.

Hearing Svetlana’s sweet words seem to brighten him up a shade. He even manages a slight smile at the company.

"Got word of a group being sent south a few days ago from a trapper come through," says Oleg wiping his hands off on his leather apron. "Been over a month since I started sending requests for the king's men. Why don't I stable your horses and we'll have some food. Svetlana's had a stew makin' all day. Won't let me taste the damned stuff, even though I been hard at work all day!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:06, Tue 18 Dec 2018.

Octavia studied Oleg and Svetlana, but kept silent for the moment. Instead she moved to the tables and sat down, waiting for bread, stew and wine. As the fire warmed her, she continued to listen to Oleg. “You requested the king's men...what for?”

OOC: 23:39, Yesterday: Secret Roll: Octavia Cassiana rolled 25 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 19.  Sense Motive.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:59, Fri 09 Mar 2018.

“My charter reads the same as yours in the introduction; however it grants me title to this fort and the surrounding area in order to secure the integrity of the fort.  It is likewise mine to pass to my heirs”  “What’s that you say? Men-at-arms yes of course someone has to secure this fort, and many locals lack the training needed as guards.”



Perception or sense motive of 12 or higher

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
As joyful and happy as the couple seems you can’t help but notice they seem to be extremely relieved by your arrival

---

This message was last edited by the GM at 19:15, Sun 11 Mar 2018.

While the others start introducing themselves to Svetlana and Oleg, Raz's head whips all around as he seems curious about almost everything. He quietly drifts away from the group and begins walking around the perimeter of the outpost. He begins muttering some words and holds out his hands, snapping both fingers and then with a slight burst of magic he is holding a fiddle and a bow. He begins playing a meandering tune as he walks around. It doesn't seem to have any purpose, at best guess he is just playing the first thing that comes to his mind based upon what he is looking at.

When he looks up it becomes a soaring melody, when he gets near the stables it turns into a short hopping sound. Near the walls it becomes an ominous and haunting tune and when he nears the campfire it becomes a peaceful relaxing melody again.

OOC: Nothing special, 13 on perform.

Silas is quiet and observant though he seems a bit distracted himself. He asks Oleg, "Do you have any followers of Old Deadeye about? I would expect out here, favor with Erastil would be a valuable commodity."

Octavia's gaze fell on the white haired elf as he spoke of the old, tried god of farmers. She though on the elf's words for a moment before giving a rebuttal. “I doubt Erastil will be of any use here. You do not seek farmers Oleg, but men-at-arms, warriors! Is this not so?” Octavia smiled warmly towards the couple.

“Every soil becomes finally exhausted, and the plowshare of war must always come once more. A message from the Gorumskagat, chapter 1, verse 12."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:44, Sat 10 Mar 2018.

Tatyana had moved with the others to the table, and now she sat, surreptitiously rolling her eyes as her proselytizing companions spoke of their respective faiths. She smiled to Oleg and the others as they seated themselves, but she also took note of her surroundings, checking the area 360* around where she had seated herself.

She politely refrained from the religious conversation, and waited patiently for the promised refreshments.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
13:43, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 24 using 1d20+6 ((18)).

Silas merely nodded to Octavia at her denigration of Old Deadeye. If there was one thing he knew, it was that Erastil required no one to defend him and that Gorum's blades were no match for the aim of Old Deadeye, should there ever be a need to test them.

Instead he waited to hear if Oleg or Svetlana knew of any local followers of Erastil.

"Now now," the warrior says to the human, "it's hard to swing a sword when you're starving. And I for one am starving," he gives the red head a smirk and an appraising eye, his kraven remark obvious.

While gauging the woman's reaction to his pass at her, he remarks toward their host, "You seem happy we are here. Is there any problems that we were not made aware of yet?"

Tauron get of his donkey.  He open up the book he has.  Looks at it and then close it.
He turns to Octavia Cassiana.
I think Gorum conveniently overlooked the evergreen ancient forest of elven realm.
If you get the balance between animal and plants.  Day and night.  Winter and summer. The land can grow and die in cycles without the soil being exhausted.  True that does take at lot to do and little magic sometime helps.

Although the elf like spend time talking to animals he just as willing to talk to the group.  From the time they been with him they learned he spent a lot of time studying and willing to listen and debate anything and everything.  He happy to poke fun at the other but also at himself.

He walks up close to Octavia Cassiana and smiles at her.
As for needed men-at-arms.  It was my understand that this is a new land.  I think we will be in need of everybody help in this project and blessing of every helpful god.  Do we not need farmer and traders.  Fighter and spellweaver.  Human, elves, orc kin, gnomes halfings and dare I say it.  Yes I dare.  Even dwarves.  Yes even dwarves!

There may even be room for hot headed beautiful young human cleric to fall in love with stuffy old bookworm of an elf.  And for he to fall in love with her back.  Who Knows!
This is new land and all is possible.

He then turns back to two that welcomed them to the fort.

Tauron book has two clear symbol on it.  For anybody that has point in know religon.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
On the front it has picture of Ketephys holy symbol but for some reason the hawk looks more like swan.  On the back is Yuelral but for some reason it seem to be place on the shell of a large egg.

https://pathfinderwiki.com/wik...phys_holy_symbol.jpg
https://pathfinderwiki.com/wik...lral_holy_symbol.jpg

---

This message was last edited by the player at 20:24, Sat 10 Mar 2018.

"Help yourself to the stables then, ..." nodding to the empty barn. His wife emerges carrying trays with bowls of steaming stew, loafs of dark bread. While she places them on the table she speaks up, "The guesthouse is empty you can find water to wash there and a place for your packs, ... ,"

"Oleg’s ain’t no temple, but I’m not going to turn away business based on faith; i bet your not familiar with a tatzylwyrm are you? Might be kin to dragons, about ten feet long, worm like though. They're rare not pleasant if you find one. Trappers around here might know more." The trader sits himself to a table and begins in on the food pouring from the pitcher of wine, "Now I don't know about all that birthing a new land and hope nonsense. I like my place right where it is far away from anyone. If it wasn't for these damn vagabonds taking my goods each month and threatening my wife I wouldn't have called for anyone."

Svetlana leans near ......"We're the only ones here and the only injury for now is Oleg's pride. It hurt him dearly to ask for help."

He continues, "They've been stealing from us for twelve weeks calling it 'protection' it'll be good to see them 'protected' back."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:15, Sun 11 Mar 2018.

Drezghl listened to the talk and religious bickering.  It seemed pointless to him as it accomplished little of substance.  He accepted Svetlana's stew and bread with an appreciative thank you and began to eat.

"Mr. Olaf.  These vagabonds that trouble you...how many of them show up every month?  When do you expect the thieves to return again?", Drezghl asked between bites of stew and bread.

Oleg instead of offering further explanation or asking for help instead stands back up.  ”If you fine people will excuse me, that roof leak is not going to fix itself and no one is going to rent a leaky room.”

"Thank you so much for listening to our troubles,please let me explain," she says while pouring out cups of wine, "About six months ago Oleg and I requested and received a charter of settlement from the Swordlords. With it came to us the deed to this abandoned fort. It didn't seem like anyone had lived here for ages. Since setting up we've had one or two visitors a day, trappers, huntsmen, hermits. Most of them are quiet and behave themselves, some might even be bandits themselves. I've seen probably forty or fifty different folk so far it's hard to tell."

Svetlana sits down with a cup of wine herself, "Three months ago about a full score of bandits came all at once. Their leader was an evil woman with two hatchets and she couldn't seem to keep her hands off them. She told Oleg that we'd pay their 'tax' or she would take me to entertain the men. He was furious and almost struck her with his bare hands. For that she nearly cut one off; in fact she told him that she would ‘shorten his reach, by a hand.’. Then her second in command, a crude man wearing a hooded leather jerkin, took my wedding ring in exchange for not 'shortening Oleg's reach.' The second month only he came with twelve others and left as soon as they had our goods. Last month it was just him with nine of his miscreants. I think they're getting relaxed about how easy it is stealing from us."

"I haven't seen the woman with the two hand axes since, but she was clearly in charge the first time. The sleazy fellow was practically licking her boots. Tomorrow at an hour after dawn, we'll bring out what few goods we have left. If you all can help us, please, just make sure Oleg is safe."

"Don’t mind my husband, he's always been like this, and we have been doing rather well until that wicked woman came and threatened us. If you gentleman would drive off the bandits for good we would be in your debt," Svetlana looks down at the ground,

"They've been coming an hour after dawn on the first day of each month. Tomorrow likely will be no different."

She looks up hopefully, gazing from one of you to the next. "Maybe if I offered you room and board for the night?"

Perception DC 15

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
You hear a grunt from Oleg as he climbs the ladder, but he does not verbalize anything....

---

This message was last edited by the GM at 19:33, Sun 11 Mar 2018.

Octavia was a bit unimpressed with the responses given by the elves. She lifted an eyebrow to Filarion, but was very unprepared for Tauron getting a little too close for comfort. Despite the elf getting in her personal space, she stood her ground. “First off, you may have misheard. I am a priestess of Gorum, not Calistria. Secondly, I never said we should abolish all farmers, but even a farmer needs to fight for what is theirs."

“My master back in the temple, Gantor Barrelshield use to say  war comes in cycles...just as your land does. We prepare for war and then seek it. The Gorumskagat is a warrior's poetry, that teaches us lessons.  Gantor also use to say,[Language unknown: houca ssofin les mohinc se for evevirsom ntiardwer andterugh util]

"Although I look at Gantor as a second father, it is my hope that not all his lessons are true....Then again, this is a new land and all is possible.”

Octavia then listened to the words of Svetlana and a small part of her remembered the murder of her parents at the hands of bandits. A look of remembrance and sadness crosses Octavia's face, but only for a moment. Downing her cup of wine, Octavia nodded to the poor woman. “Of course I will help you and if I can, I will return your wedding ring back to you.”
This message was last edited by the player at 22:23, Sun 11 Mar 2018.

Smiling as if he'd won something he remarks to their hosts, "While the others might be quick to assist you in this matter, I wonder if these bandits might have a claim to the area and might be actually protecting you from something else. Do you know if they have any legitimate claims? Maybe they have a reason to be here as well." He makes a gesture to clarify, "More than just shaking down you two that is. Have they stated or talked about anyone or  anything else? Even if it's just an off handed remark."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:44, Mon 12 Mar 2018.

Tatyana had thanked Oleg before he left to be about his chores, and thanked Svetlana both for the sustenance provided, and the promise of room and board for helping defend them against the thugs looking for 'protection money'. She heard Filarion's question about the possibility of other forces in the area, and waited patiently to hear Svetlana's response.

Svetlana looks at the lot of you and she says ”Thank you; thank you so much those who have offered to help; we appreciate you more than I can say...”

She takes a sip of wine and holds back her tears....
”I am not aware of the bandits having any legitimate authority they have been here several times and they have never mentioned that nor have they claimed any such thing. And what authority could threaten to force me into being prostitute?”

She chokes up again...
”Feel free to ask them; they will be here in the morning.”

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Que to begin your preparations for the arrival of the bandits

---

This message was last edited by the GM at 13:11, Mon 12 Mar 2018.

Tatyana puts a hand on Svetlana's shoulder. "Don't worry, we would never let it come to that. And while we may ask questions of the bandits in the morning, our aim is to end their preying on your fort most permanently."

She looked to the towers, and then back to Svetlana. "Tell me, those catapults on the towers - are they repaired, or as dilapidated as they seem from this distance?"

The elf nods, "Humans have odd social practices that I have little want to understand. Suffice it to say, if the ban will not take no, and no is your answer, then he will never sleep with another maiden." His visage grows dark as he finishes the last part. "Make sure your man is nearby so that he can do the deed if it comes to that."

"For now, let us drink and be merry."

Svetlana shrugs
”I would guess they are in as bad of shape as this place was when we first arrived; Oleg hasn’t even touched them.”

A quick inspection reveals....

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
These are of no use it would take a month to fix one of these.

---

Raz finishes his meandering and with casual disdain he tosses the violin and bow over his shoulders. With a twinkle they disappear in midair, returning back to whatever void they were conjured from.

"There appears to be quite a few avenues for ambush. For example, one could hide quite a few stout fighters behind these doors when they are open, wouldn't you say?

I would hope we could eliminate the whole lot in one go. I would hate for a rider to escape to warn the others or mobilize a counter-offensive. If there truly is a a score or more of bandits it would be good to thin their numbers before directly confronting them."

He paused and began gesturing around. As he spoke magical symbols wrote themselves into the air around him as he gestured to help direct his audience's attention in his typical theatrical way.

"We could pile the goods into the center of the square and let them ride in to claim them. Then when enough are dismounted we can close the gates with a couple stout fighters while archers reign down all manner of fire from on high...hmmmm"

He does another full 360 before spouting off directions.

"We could have...

• Octavia and Filarion could be positioned behind the open gates and shut them. That would demonstrate how strength is the dominate advantage in battle and let Fliarion be first into the fray with his skill of sword.
  
• Tauron, Silas, Drezghul and myself can take positions in each of the towers. Silas and Drezghul can hide in the towers flanking the gates to allow them easy ability to help reinforce Octavia and Filarion if necessary while us enchanters can be in the rear towers weaving our magic. Or perhaps we could be on the ground behind the buildings if the far towers are a bit too far. In any case just simply lying down flat with perhaps a fur covering would be sufficient to block sight from the ground.
  
• Our sneaky thief Tatyana can easily hide inside a building and help complete a pincer maneuver with our main fighters at the gates. If Drezghul or Tauron want a bit more action they they can assist as well from the ground.

"

He turns to others with a grin.

"How about that? Am I general yet? How is that for tactics!

Please take full advantage of the game map of Oleg’s trading post and the OOC thread to be ready for the morning arrival of the bandits....
And carry on here as well..

As the sunsets Oleg lights a torch and keeps hammering away on the roof.
It is not long before you hear him cursing and mumbling....
“Damnable bats flying all about my head.  Making me dizzy.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:45, Mon 12 Mar 2018.

Tatyana marches straight up to Razmatin in a huff. She puts her hands on her hips before one finger is jabbed toward the bard.

"You just watch who you're calling a 'thief'! I'm nothing of the sort; but I wouldn't expect a Varisian to know the difference. Point in fact, I'm a far better archer than I am with a blade, so amend your plan to have me atop one of the forward towers (she points to the forward towers) to rain arrows down on the enemy, whichever side they end up on." At this point, she smiled just a little.

"And as a second matter of fact, I'm going to see about moving or repositioning those old catapults. May give us some added cover to fire from," she grinned and giggled.

She turned and tromped off towards the south-west tower and scaled it quickly. She then set about to figure out if the catapult remains could be better positioned to provide cover. If she could, she would adjust the catapult atop the current tower, and then move to each of the other towers in turn to make similar adjustments.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=
19:12, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 19 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 10.  Knowledge: Engineering roll for catapult re-purposing.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:15, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

In reply to Razmatin Vulcovila (msg # 29):

"It seems that you've forgotten important details.", Drezghl replies coarsely.

"How many of these men are fighters or laborers?  What kind of weapons do they carry?  Are there any among them that cast spells?  Do they come on foot or horseback?  Do they ride into the gates or leave their mounts outside?  How many men remain outside the gates with the horses? Those men must be killed first so that they cannot ride to summon aid.  Many details, General."

This message was last edited by the player at 03:25, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

Silas nodded first at Razmatin's commentary and then at both Tatyana and Drezhi's responses.

"You're off to a good start Raz," he says smiling. "I will take the southwest tower, along the opening there. I can rise when the gate is closed and loose my arrows down of the wicked men. But we must make sure Oleg and Svetlana are safe and protected within the shop. If it is better that I stand out front here, to guard them I will do that as well."

He paused and then added, "Question though, is our aim to capture or kill? Though the leaders are likely lost causes, some of these men and women are likely doing what they can to survive. Perhaps some can be converted to work on our behalf?"

Taking it all in, Filarion turns to Silas and points. "See this guy?" He smiles walking over to him and patting his shoulder, "This guy gets it. Of course they'll have to stop their looting and banditry, but most of you are talking of murder. Theft of property doesn't warrant the death penalty. Besides, they might have information that is useful to us. I say we spring your trap," he nods at Razmatin, "but we offer them to join the coming civilisation. They'll have to make amends for their past crimes, but they could be offered a clean slate of they leave their barbarous ways."

Octavia took a moment to consider Raz's plan. After a few moments she nodded. “It's a good plan, although I think having over half of our forces as archers puts Filarion and myself in the most danger. Still it is a risk I will gladly accept.”

“As said in the charter, the punishment for unrepentant banditry remains, as always, execution by sword or rope. That said, I'm not much for hard rules and if someone surrenders, I would take prisoners.”
This message was last edited by the player at 07:59, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

"How about he at least leave the option for a duel to end this?" The elf says, "They could be useful and, while I will not flinch from a fight, am loathe to kill a sentient being without a trial. We should at least afford them a chance at redemption. They refuse? Well that'll be their last mistake."

A hard smile and glint in his eye indicated he is more than ready to find. "I should at least allow one to survive. After all, what's the point unless we can spread our deeds?"

Tauron had been listening to the talk while sorting out his animals.
He turns and answer the problem.
I think I have an answer.  We will down the bandits.  They will not surrender right away.
So we take as many down as we need to, to make them surrender.
Then I can look over the ones that we downed.  If I can save then I will.
So if we kill them in the fight so be it that not murder.
After the fight we save the ones we can.  Does that fit well with you Filarion Petxalim.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:54, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

"So long as we give them a chance at first to atone, then what happens happens," he nods to Tauron.

Those of you seeking some type of cover or concealment find that Oleg has left several faded brown tarps lying around the upper battlements and in other areas of the fort. Including some held in place by stones on the roof.  These tarps could easily be moved around and used to cover someone and make them more difficult to see.

Oleg begrudgingly
”Thank you; Svetlana and I are headed off to bed I will wake you all an hour before sunrise.”

Oleg extends his hand and shakes each of yours in turn.

Raz seems rather unconcerned about such things as details. He shrugs at the questions asked towards him and then grins again.

"I bit of improvisation wouldn't hurt anyone. I am about equal with bow as blade so I can hide in the house and provide aid if necessary to Octavia and Filarion.

As for moving the catapults, I would rather not touch a thing. No sense in putting the guards on alert if they notice something is off, eh?

Now for capturing the bandits, sure! While we're at it we should recruit them and press gang them into our service and take their place as lords of this land!"

Given the theatrical way he rose his voice at the end it was clear he was joking.

"If we kill them now or later what difference does it make? Oh sure we can drag out their secret bases and buried treasures but then what? Are you proposing that after months of murder and mayhem we just let them go?"

"It makes all the difference," the elf male says, "According to Svetlana and Oleg's tail, they've only been threatened and robbed." Turning to their hosts, "Unless there's more you're not telling us?"

Raz frowned at Filarion.

"Octavia like just read out the part in the charter that said banditry is punishable by death. Did you not hear her?"

"I don't think that this gang of thugs are the kind that change their ways and become farmers.   When the time comes they will say anything you want to hear to save their lives.  Better to dispatch them quickly than to fight them again later"., Drezghl said.

Oleg looks thoughtful for a second
“The man in the hood is called Happs and the woman with the axes is called Kressel.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:05, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

The elf's brow furrows in confusion, "Are the lives of mankind so short that there's no room for mercy? Are the babes of humans so numerous that life is so cheep? I'm not versed in the laws of humans so forgive my ignorance. If you sons and daughters of Man say they must be put down, then I will follow your leads. It is just an odd thing to me."

"All I'm asking is that we try a peaceful resolution before we hack them to bits. I will follow your lead though in this matter and if you say they are worthy of destruction, then so be it."

Raz just shrugs and smiles.

"I'm not big on the whole murder scene but one doesn't become a bandit in the River Kingdoms because they're trying to feed starving orphans. The charter does emphasize unrepented banditry so if they surrender maybe we can make them farmers..."

He drifted off and turned to Oleg.

"Hey Oleg, if we can convince some of these guys to turn from their bandtiry ways, would you be willing to put them to work? Let them work off their debts to society and become contributing members of civilization?"

Oleg raises an eyebrow
“Maybe one that has not harmed or threatened myself and Svetlana and has been tried convicted and sentenced.”

Tatyana had been listenng to the debate below while setting up archer blinds on each of the towers. As she finished the last one, she offered, "once they are inside and the gate closed behind them, offer them the obligatory chance to surrender peaceably. If they do not, then cut them down like the dogs they are," and her tone left no question as to where she stood on the subject, and she had stared at Filarion the whole time she spoke.

Oleg lites the fire pit between the two tables. He points to the guest house.

“You all can bed down there for the night, or the stables if you prefer.”


Oleg and Svetlana turn in for the evening .

Raz smiled and nodded at Tatyana.

"Hey Tats, why don't you take up my position on the front wall opposite Silas. If you're as good a shot as you say then if they somehow escape you two will be our last line to drop them before escaping into the woods."

He mimed drawing a bow, sighting it, and then letting loose.

Tauron listens to the talk.  He thinks for while to add to talk but decide it pointless.
The elf then walk over to one of the barns.  He first says few words in elvish which to anybody that understand spells would know he casting a spell.
The elf starts to make lot of funny clicking noises.
He lifts up his hand and seems to have some food in them.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:52, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

The bats flitter and squeak about your head.More and more bats gather around the elf.  .As the spell takes affect a cacophony of voices emerge, where is impossible to tell which of the bats is squeaking (speaking)or from where.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:04, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

Tauron continues to make lot of clicking noise.

Raz doesn't say anything about Tuaron's antics but does ensure that with all the critters flying overhead that he has something solid of his head.

The elf warrior's face retained his confusion as each person spoke. Once Tatyana finished her opinion, Filarion stands and says to Svetlana, " Thank you for your hospitality." Then to the others, "I will take my leave for the night and will see you all on the marrow."

With that he walks out the fort gate and into the darkness leaving his pack behind.

Watching both Tauron's antics with the bats, and Filarion's abrupt departure, she climbs down from the tower and moves to stand next to Raz, Octavia, and the others.

"Well, at least we can truly say that Tauron has bats in his belfry ..." she let the comment hang.

Suddenly as Tauron is talking to the bats; A different much larger bat approaches him in his eyes he sees a spark of intelligence that is not normal to standard bat; This bad addresses him;


The spell fades and you only hear squeaking.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:30, Tue 13 Mar 2018.

Tauron turns round to the group.
His face looks very grave.  Mixed with a cold anger.
One that give you idea Tauron slowly freeze you to death if really upset him.
A look nobody has ever seen on the friendly elf.

He looks at the large bat and taps his shoulder hoping it would rest there.

Can someone go find Filarion Petxalim and bring him back please.
Tell him not to worry about the bandit.  I have evidence they guilty of murder and torture.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:36, Wed 14 Mar 2018.

The large bat comes to rest on your shoulder and transformed into a raven...

Silas nodded and moved out into the area where he'd seen Filarion walking towards. Catching up to his fellow elf, he spoke quietly,

Drezghl sighed and resigned himself to the team's plan.  He knew that it was unwise to give up the element of surprise in battle, but he had been unable to sway Filarion and a couple of the others.

Octavia listened to the argument the group had about prisoners. As they argued, Octavia began to sharpen her sword. A little bit of anger pushed on her mind as her race was insulted, finally she spoke as Filarion walked out of the fort. A part of her thought about her parents and how brutally they where murdered, but she kept that to herself.

She spoke loud enough that all could hear. “If Filarion wants to sleep outside, let him. As far as taking prisoners, that's fine, as long as it is understood that WE are the law out here and what we decide as a majority goes. If I had my way they will not be set free to commit their crimes again, or rejoin the enemy's ranks once more.”

“If anyone can't live with that, they can go and march the prisoners all the way back to Restov for trial. But in that case, they will go without my help.”

Then placing a friendly hand on Tatyana and Raz's shoulders, Octavia gave them a weak smile. “I hope we all live through tomorrow and I will pray to the god of war.” She paused for a moment, as if wanting to say much more. “I go to sleep in the stable. Good night.”

Silas found Filarion just outside the gate. He had his blade out, a single edged blade that curves slightly near the tip, and seems to be just starting to get into a stance. He looked over at him and nodded. "That is fine. If they do not surrender they are deserving of death's embrace because of their crimes. I am content, just confused at everyone's wish to jump do quickly into violence." He twirls the blade and lunges, spinning on the balls of his feet as he returns to his base stance. "I hope you understand my misgivings. I am not upset, just confused and will do everything I can to handle these bandits if it comes to blows."

After a moment he asks, "Tell me, have you ever heard of the Swordlords?"
This message was last edited by the player at 11:42, Wed 14 Mar 2018.

The long night passes in various activities and discussions...morning is coming.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Wrap it up as I am getting ready to post the morning encounter.  So everyone will need to figure out where they will be shaken the ambush or negotiations start

---

Tatyana bids everyone a good night's rest and climbs up into the front tower on the west side of the gate. She puts down her blanket and readies her bow, arrows, and blade before beginning her reverie.

The sun is a hand's breath in the sky when the first lookout spots the bandits making their way to the trading post. As they get closer you can make out a dozen men on horseback, leading another horse, and finally a mule. The lead one is as Oleg described, a hunter wearing a hooded leather jerkin.

They ride their horses quickly across the hills stopping outside the fort. As they get closer it becomes clear that the one with the leather hood has something thrown over his saddle.

Perception DC 20

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

It appears to be a body wrap for burial

---

Perception DC 25

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

Two of the bandits in the back appear to be extremely nervous and they are also being guarded by two other bandits

---

As they approach half of the men dismount; one of them is grinning from ear to ear, and saying to the hooded one “I’m glad we got on Kressle’s good side, eh? We get to be the first ones to have a go with Oleg's wench. 'bout time she let us bring her 'spoils' back with us."

The bandits  look over where Everyone is crouched, or concealed; they show no sign of noticing.

The leader takes the reins of the horses and walks it inside. The other five dismount and walk through the gates, the last one is carrying manacles.  The other six outside the gates remain mounted.

Happs stops within ten feet of Oleg the trader, "Oleg, your wares are starting to come short with Kressle. She's decided to take an extra tithe this month. Call out that pretty wife of yours, or we burn this place to the ground. To sweeten the deal i brought a trade"
Happs pulls the bundle free and dumps what appears to be a teenage girl, waif thin with dark hair, she is clothed only in a nightshirt and is covered in cuts and bruises.  Most telling is her bandaged left stump where her hand once was...she looks about like a caged animal but doesn’t move from where she landed on the ground...
”What say you Oleg; fair trade this younger model, slightly used...” several of the bandits laugh ”for sweet single Svetlana?”
Another bandit chimes in ”She’s got no ring on her finger!”. More of the bandits laugh and slap each other on the back.


Oleg is looking considerably less distraught then Happs thought he would be. Standing straight he puts his hands to his hips and calls, "It's time to come out!"

The bandits look around a little warily, some putting their hands to the hilts of their shortswords. Kidnapping a mans wife is nerve racking work.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:50, Wed 14 Mar 2018.

Octavia came out from behind the front door with a wicked smile on her face and a greatsword in her hands. “In honor of a comrade of mine, I now offer all of you the chance to surrender, but I must admit, I sincerely hope you do not surrender.” With a joyful smile, Octavia gave thanks to her god. “Oh Gorum, we thank you for giving us the gift of battle, that we might prove ourselves worthy. Grant me and my allies your blessings.”

Octavia then began walking toward the nearest foe. Her emerald green eyes and strange smile giving a hint of the pain she planed to unleash.

OOC: Surprise round. Casting bless and then moving to close. Anyone within 50 feet of the front door(nearest the guest house) receives the benefit of Bless.

Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects.

Bless round 1/10

http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG...lls/bless.html#bless

Also, Veteran of Battle (Gorum): +1 trait bonus on initiative checks,
and if you are able to act during a surprise round,
you may draw a weapon as a free action during that round.

14:51, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 4 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 3.  Initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:57, Wed 14 Mar 2018.

"Yes," the elf says brandishing his blade, "you will stand down and subject yourselves for trial." He tries to glower at the bandits, but he just doesn't carry enough panache to do it right. It also doesn't help that his voice cracks right in the middle of his statement.

Clearing his throat, he says, "You will start by apologizing to these fine people and been for forgiveness."

If this is a surprise round, I'll move so that I can block the bandits from getting closer to Svetlana.

18:51, Today: Secret Roll: Filarion Petxalim rolled 25 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 20.  Initiative.

18:56, Today: Secret Roll: Filarion Petxalim rolled 6 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 1.  Intimidate. Double :/

Tatyana kept herself hidden on the top of the tower, but had an arrow nocked ready to loose at the first sign of trouble. She had taken careful aim at the bandit closest to her in proximity. All she waited for now was a hostile act against Oleg, Svetlana, the girl from the sack, or any of her companions.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
20:50, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 4 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 1.  initiative.

Drezghl held his bastard sword two-handed, ready to engage his enemies. He slowly and quietly crept out from behind the stable-side gate, hoping to catch the nearest bandits unaware while their attention was focused on Oleg, Octavia, and Filarion.

“So you’re the men at arms, arrived earlier than our spy reported; no matter we’re still gonna burn the place to ground kill you all and take Svetlana as a prisoner!   Kill them all!”

Happs draws a long sword as the other five men draw short swords.

The six men outside ready shortbows....
Perception DC 20

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
the same two guarded men, wearing small caps do not ready arrows, the other four do

---

The short sword wielders push forward swinging at the perceived men at arms.

Happs scores a hit for 5 damage to Octavia.

Another presses in and barely scratches Filarion for 3 points of damage.

The other four fail to connect.



Three bowstrings thrum as arrows are fired, one his the gate, one flies high the last one hits Oleg, who collapses in a heap.

”Nooooo!” screams Svetlana as she rushes to crouch down next to Oleg.


You are up!

Filarion grasps his blade in both hands and lashes out at the closest bandit. He then pulls the blade back quickly, spinning it in a defensive manner as he feels out his target.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:10, Thu 15 Mar 2018.

Drezghl charged across the courtyard and came up behind the bandits with his bastard sword.   He lashed out with a viscous slash across the back of the nearest one.

"Face me you sons of dogs!", Drezghl bellowed after the blow landed.

OOC: 10 initiative

Raz stood at the ready, hidden inside the stables with his weapons of choice. The windows were open, the air was ringing out with battle and it was time for a supreme performance.

Drawing his bow across the large cello he had conjured he started playing a high slow tune that quickly dropped in pitch and ramped up in speed before launching into the main composition.

For your background ambiance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_CsijQsYY4


Music drifted out loud and clear from the windows of the barn as he began to weave his magic with the music he was creating.

Tauron is in the south tower.  He lets of an arrow at the bandit archers.

OOC:
Tauron Alphmellon rolled 8 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 5.  Attack with bow.
23:56, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 11 using 1d20+2 with rolls of 9.  Initiative.

This message was last edited by the player at 23:56, Thu 15 Mar 2018.

Octavia exchanged a few blows with the bandit leader Happs. As the sound of steel deflecting steel rang through the air, Happs scored a hit, cutting through her armor, Octavia began to bleed from her upper left chest. Octavia countered, swinging wildly, but missing.


OOC: 08:54, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 7 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 2.  Attack .

Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects.

Bless round 2/10

http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG...lls/bless.html#bless

Silent as death itself, Tatyana rose up from her cover on the south-west tower and let fly an arrow aimed at taking down the de-facto leader of the group, Happs.

Her arrow, both inspired by her confidence, skill, and the melodious tunes coming from the stables, tore into her target's back with a resounding THWAK!

She hesitated not a moment. but dipped low and began prepping another arrow ...

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
16:38, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 22 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 17.  shoot an arrow at Happs.
16:39, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 8 using 1d8+2 with rolls of 6.  dmg Happs.

Silas rose from his hidden position and fired, but his aim was off.

OOC: I keep accidentally rolling Secret Rolls...
00:26, Today: Secret Roll: Silas Silverstream rolled 9 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 4.  To hit lead Bandit .
00:25, Today: Secret Roll: Silas Silverstream rolled 10 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 6.  Initiative.

”Form up!” commands Happs to the group of bandits. He grits his teeth with an arrow still sticking in his back.


”Ignore that dog Oleg and aIm at the guards!”

Happs swings his long sword at Octavia managing to connect for 3 points of damage.
Filarion finds two thugs in his face stabbing at him for 5 points of damage.
While Drezghl faces off with the others and takes 6 points of damage.

The archers focus on Tatyana and Tauron
Only managing to hit Tatyana arm for 2 points of damage.


You are up!!

Tatyana lifted up over the tarp just as an arrow from outside the walls skipped off the battlement and sliced across her arm. She grunted a little from the sting and knew in her head she would have to bandage the cut shortly. If anything, it only added to her anger and moral outrage at these bandits.

Steeling her resolve, she again caught sight of the leader, Happs. Drawing the bowstring back to its limit, she whispered a silent prayer to Ketephys and let the arrow fly ...

Straight into the eyeball of Happs.


=-=-=-=-=

14:03, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 25 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 20.  shoot Happs.
14:04, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 19 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 14.  confirm crit.
14:05, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 22 using 3d8+6 with rolls of 6,4,6.  crit longbow dmg.

Happs orders seem suddenly prophetic as an arrow takes him through the eye and comes half way out the back of his skull.

The bandits inside realize they have no escape and stay on to fight.
The bandits outside decide they need to leave....


The rest of you are up!
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:47, Fri 16 Mar 2018.

Octavia was about to take another swing at Happs, when his body falls to the ground dead. Seeing an arrow sticking out of his skull, she nodded in thanks to the archer that had done the deed. The music in the air and the blessings of Gorum filled her heart and she moved on to the next bandit. Octavia's swing was true, as she tried to slice the man in half, from hip to hip.

OOC: 12:48, Today: Secret Roll: Octavia Cassiana rolled 15 using 2d6+7 with rolls of 2,6.  Damage.
12:47, Today: Secret Roll: Octavia Cassiana rolled 22 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 16.  Attack.

Bless round 3/10

http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG...lls/bless.html#bless

+2 to attack and +1 to damage thanks to stacking spell effects. :)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:05, Fri 16 Mar 2018.

The tide of battle changes swiftly as Octavia Cassiana brings Gorums fury down on another cowardly bandit!

Drezghl howled with fury due to the pain of his wounds. He swung again at the bandits but they avoided evisceration, this time...

Private to The Spirit of the Land:

14:31, Today: Secret Roll: Drezghl Zuhv rolled 7 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 1.  Attack bandit.

Drezghl Zuhv rolled 14 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 11.  Intimidate bandits.]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:39, Fri 16 Mar 2018.

From his spot he fires at the bandit bowman.
Using the fort as his protection.

OOC:
20:46, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 18 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 14.  Attack with bow.
20:46, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 4 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 3.  Damage.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:48, Fri 16 Mar 2018.

Suffering from the damage, the elf warrior keeps his defensive stance which causes his one strike to go badly.

The girl Imira at the ground in front of the now dead Happs; looks through swollen eyes and gestures towards Filarion with her remaining hand...

Healing hex
Restoring 7 hit points to him....
Before lapsing into unconsciousness
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:17, Sat 17 Mar 2018.

Raz strolls through the doorway of the stables, carrying his cello in one hand and strumming wildly on it with the other. He has a big grin on his face as he weaves his magic and music amidst the carnage.

OOC: Moving to where he can see. How many bandits are still alive inside the fort?<

Four bandits currently face off against the defenders of the fort....

Tatyana stood on the tower, firing off an arrow at the bandits inside. She then shouts, "anyone else who doesn't want to be killed had better lay down their arms, RIGHT NOW!"

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
11:34, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 14 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 8.  shoot a bandit.
11:37, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 4 using 1d8+2 with rolls of 2.  dmg.

OOC: needed every bit of those bonuses.

Tauron puts another arrow in his bow and lets it go.
This time however it drops over the parapet onto the ground below.

OOC:
16:48, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 5 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 1.  Attack with bow.

The four bandits attack Octavia and Drezghl the short swords work furiously trying to penetrate their defenses but only Drezghl takes five points of damage.

The outside bandits have turned to flee but fire off a volley of four arrows as they ride with all speed away from the fort.


You are up!

Silas lines up another shot and once again the arrow hits the dirt near his target.

He nearly throws down his bow in frustration...

OOC: That's three straight attack rolls of a 3... The dice roller for this game hates me...
17:10, Today: Silas Silverstream rolled 10 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 3.  To hit Round 3.

Tauron continues to fire at the bandit now trying to leave.

OOC:
21:27, Today: Secret Roll: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 18 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 14.  Attack with bow.
21:27, Today: Secret Roll: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 3 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 2.  Damage.

Hitting one of the last two bandits heading out.  He falls from his saddle, as does another one of the bandits.

Hearing the arrows whistling overhead, Tatyana turns and fires an arrow at the fleeing bandits.


=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
19:34, Today: Secret Roll: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 15 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 9.  shoot a fleeing bandit!
19:34, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 5 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 4.

Drezghl staggered again from his wounds. He managed to compose himself and attacked again. He lashed out at the nearest bandit and his blade again tasted blood with a solid blow.  He crumpled to the ground.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:30, Sun 18 Mar 2018.

Octavia parried another blow from the bandit that ran up to her. Swinging her blade in a spinning motion she decapitated the fool, his bloody head rolling across the muddy ground. Blood, gore and the smell of human waste was everywhere.

OOC:19:06, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 14 using 2d6+7 with rolls of 4,3.  Damage .

19:05, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 21 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 15.  Attack .

Bless 4/10
This message was last edited by the player at 02:50, Sun 18 Mar 2018.

Tatyana hits a fleeing bandit; while two more are cut down by Drezghl and Octavia.

Leaving two bandits who look at each other and then the girl Imira they look determined to continue the battle.

They strike out desperately but manage no hits.

Drezghl, severely wounded, summoned the last of his strength and lashed out a final time.  His blade bit deep and the bandit screamed in pain. A smile crossed his face as fatigue began to catch up with him.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:04, Sun 18 Mar 2018.

Octavia moved on to her next opponent, taking a hard swing that went wide as the bandit side stepped her blow. The pain from her own wounds being to slow her down.

OOC: 23:38, Yesterday: Octavia Cassiana rolled 9 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 3.  Attack.

Bless 5/10

Suddenly feeling better, the warrior doesn't question why.

"You were given a chance to yeild," the elf says with a grunt, "I suggest you take it." Now with only two combatants, he attacks with his full measure.

In reply to Filarion Petxalim (msg # 102):


Sense motive DC 14 add a bonus of two if you are female

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

These two are fighting because they are afraid that Imira will name them as rapists

---

This message was last edited by the GM at 13:02, Sun 18 Mar 2018.

In reply to The Spirit of the Land (msg # 103):

Silas loosed an arrow at the fleeing bandits and was pleased to see one finally fly true.

OOC: 11:48, Today: Secret Roll: Silas Silverstream rolled 6 using 1d8+2 with rolls of 4.  Damage.
11:48, Today: Secret Roll: Silas Silverstream rolled 16 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 9.  To hit fleeing bandits.

Taking careful aim Tauron tries to take down the fleeing bandits.

OOC:
16:33, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 23 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 19.  Attack with bow .
16:34, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 9 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 8.  Damage.

OOC: Oops, I was skipped...

Raz starts to vocalize a spell, pausing his frantic strumming now and then to quickly complete a gesture. In between the notes of his strumming a sopoforic field starts to fill the air, tugging at the bandits eyelids even as he strums with intensity.

OOC: Casting sleep, DC 15 to resist

Tatyana allows a smile of grim satisfaction to cross her face, if only for a moment. In the next, she looses another shaft against the fleeting bandits, hitting one square in the back of the head and dropping him from his mount.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
19:18, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 23 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 18.  loose an arrow at the fleeing cowards!
19:18, Today: Tatyana Dec'lan rolled 8 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 7.  dmg the fleeing coward!

One bandit saves against the Sleep spell only to be met with A swift death the other one fails to save and falls asleep.

The archers have managed to fell the fleeing bandits however the two that fell from the horses first are slowly making their way back with their arms held up in the air....

Heal check DC 15

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

A quick survey of the people wounded shows that many of you are near death that Oleg is severely injured and the girl Imira is failing to stabilize from her own injuries

---

Svetlana is trying desperately to stop the bleeding from Oleg’s chest.
”Someone help me!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:53, Mon 19 Mar 2018.

Unconcerned with the bandits outside, as he probably didn't know they were coming back, he moves to hold the sleeping bandit, "Someone please get something to bind this one and check on Oleg." He then calls Octavia over to him.

"I fear, given how these ruffians were talking to Svetlana that they may have abused the lady they brought. I don't feel it would be prudent for a man to help her. It might push her into shock."

Tatyana carefully made her way down from the tower and out into the field, bow readied with drawn arrow. She escorted the remaining two bandits into the fort and made them kneel down with their faces against the guest house.

"Anyone who even so much as twitches gets an arrow shaft through the back of their skull," she threatened.

Looking over to the wounded, her features softened, and she spoke to her comrades, "if someone can watch these two, I will help tend the wounded ... even though I've not really trained for that."

Drezghl smiled grimly, with the battle won, he knew he had done his job. His vision dimmed and he sank to his knees.

"Gorum will be pleased.", he whispered.

Slowly the darkness overtook him as he slumped to the ground.

Tauron run over to the group from his tower.
He takes one look at the girl and starts speaking in elvish.
[Language unknown: Paurtret tr ckus ca U fick are beshe lo i.  Ce icove oneiee ndeoulers waos ith e T aspe ons laraverat pa plplca memaol.]

As the spell takes effect he calls to her.
Imira your safe now.  The bandits have gone your free.

He then grabs a scroll out of his bag and uses it on Oleg’s .

With a second scroll in his hand he uses it on Drezghl Zuhv.

He then return to the girl.
Imira.  He offers to help her up.
If she cannot get up he sits down and rests her head on his lap.

OOC:
This is unless someone else acts to help as well...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Mon 19 Mar 2018.

As Tauron restores Imira she hersel stars tall and lays a hand on his shoulder.

”Thank you for succouring me from these bandits.  I shall aid your fellows.”

Imira turns the healing hex to each of you in turn including Oleg himself.
Each of you heals 7 points of damage.
Oleg stops bleeding out and exclaims ”A cleric? Here?”

”Be forewarned  my ability to heal is limited a day and a night must pass before I can use the healing upon you once again; I had used it on myself when the wicked woman chopped off my hand.

Imira looks first at the fallen Happs then over to the sleeping bandit...
” this one is guilty shall I kill him ?”
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:46, Mon 19 Mar 2018.

Tauron turns to the girl.
I still have two scrolls which I can heal people with.

He then looks down at bandit and turns to Imira.
If what I understand is true of how they treat female prisoner I believe you have right to decide if he lives or dies.

Witnessing the divine healing energies from Tauron and the young girl made Tatyana smile.

When Imiri spoke of the crime that had been done against her, the smile quickly vanished.

"and what of these two? Did they harm you as well?" She almost hoped the answer was 'yes' as she sighted down her arrowshaft at the heads of the two bandits...
This message was last edited by the player at 19:04, Mon 19 Mar 2018.

Things had sped up again. He'd been firing arrows at fleeing bandits and then there was a flurry of activity as he watched the woman heal Oleg and speak of her powers. Rather than letting the speed overwhelm him, he took a deep breath, stowed his bow and drew his rather large sword. He said, "I'll take guard duty."

He'd drawn his blade so it was ready to deliver justice. And justice in this case likely meant beheading these two bandits for their crimes against this woman and who knows what else.

Drezghl felt the darkness quickly fade and an unusual warmth wash over his body.  He was still alive.

He rose to he knees and found his sword. Slowly he stood, amidst a puddle of blood, his own mingled with the that of the bandits, drying in the dust around his feet.

"Who brought me back from the darkness?  I thought that I was finished.", Drezghl asked.

Octavia seeing that the battle was over and that the girl was playing medic, she began to heal herself. Once her wounds where mended, Octavia made sure the bandits where all dead or tied up. She then began to speak her prayer to Gorum.

"Powers of War it did sire a Son
He was baptized by Fire, Blood, Steel and Sky
From darkness he rose up in Triumph
To ascend the Throne of Light
And He Alone shall forever be known
As Gorum, Our Lord in Iron!"

"Gorum, Mighty god of war
We thank you for the blood and victory of this day
And the healing you provide to fight again!"


Octavia finished the prayer with two channels of healing energy.

OOC: EVERYONE HEALS 9 HIT POINTS. :)

00:28, Today: Secret Roll: Octavia Cassiana rolled 6 using 1d6 with rolls of 6.  channel healing energy.
00:28, Today: Secret Roll: Octavia Cassiana rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  channel healing energy.
00:03, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 7 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 6.  CLW.
00:03, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 4 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 3.  CLW.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:54, Tue 20 Mar 2018.

When the girl exposes the bandits foul deeds the elf grunts, "As soon as we get some information from them, you will get your justice. I swear it." Once he's tied up, he slaps the bandit across the face. Hard.

Tauron turns to Drezghl Zuhv.
Directly Imira did but I feel it right to say Octavia Cassianam Liram and myself all played a part in making sure the only people that died here this this day are the bandits.

At this point a lot noise is heard from tower where Tanuron had come from.
A raven and swan come flying in making a lot of noise.

Tauron turns.  Imira.
I found one of your friends.  I believe you be very please to see her again.  He puts his hand in his pocket and offers the raven a small about of dried food to show he and raven are friends and that he been looking after she.

OOC:
This is subject to Gm being happy as I sorted role played an NPC.  IE the raven.
I thought his would fit but if GM not happy please remove the part of post you don't like.  Hope that ok.  I made raven female as well.  Change it if like.

Amira finds her head spinning with so many different directions to look and see what is going on first she addresses
Tauron ”yes this is my faithful familiar his name is Tengu.”

She looks at the two bandits being held against the wall, and addresses  Tatyana
”No these men are innocent they were forced into banditry very recently neither one of them has done anything illegal that I am aware of one of them tender the horses and the other set fire to my wagon while my parents were murdered, but i believe they did this to keep from being involved in the murder, robbery, and my own degradation.”

She turns to Drezghl
”Your own cleric did heal you as did I.”


Finally she nods to the others.

Before finally setting her eyes upon Octavia
”Gorum’s Army gathers, I wonder will you be the general of the army that is to come?”


She turns to the other bandit...
”Answer questions and I shall grant swift justice.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:13, Tue 20 Mar 2018.

Tatyana relaxes the bowstring just a little as she moves up behind the two men she has pinned against the guest house wall.

"Speak your piece, one at a time. Do it without shouting, please. My fingers still rest on the bowstring."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:11, Tue 20 Mar 2018.

Raz pops up beside the pair of prisoners with a big shit-eating grin on his face.

"You'd best tell the truth lads. We're noble adventurers and the truth will set you free..."

Unfortunately his good cop routine was partially ruined by the look in his eyes. He was a fan of tying up loose ends and had no real desire to let anyone free, especially not when they had arms and armor that could be put to better use...

OOC: Crap, botched the bluff roll...


10:36, Today: Secret Roll: Razmatin Vulcovila rolled 8 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 1.  bluff the bluffing bluffers.

After the stiff slap, Filarion grabs the man by his collar dragging his body to the wall and slamming him against it. Standing back, he drawer his blade to the man's throat and says, "Do you admit your crime against this woman? You are already guilty of attempted murder and banditry. You're admission will determine if I give her my club or my sword to meter out justice."

“Yes, I admit my part in it.  It was Happs idea.  He did it and Kressel was so mad she couldn’t see straight.  She claimed the girl used magic to make him desire her and that’s why she cut off her hand.”

Raz wiggles his hands and a magical red bullseye appears right on the man's forehead.

"Would somebody do the honors?"

He raised his eyebrows and leaned to the side, careful to get out of the line of fire.

The warrior draws his blade, "How many are left in the bandit camp?"

"Ask about the camp's defenses as well, and do they have a healer or a mage?", Drezghl called out across the courtyard. He rose from his place of rest and strode over to stand next to Filarion.

Octavia listened to the girls story and felt pained at hearing about it. Having lost her own parents to bandits, Octavia would do what she could for her. Yet a tiny look of suspicion crossed her eyes when the girl began to speak of Gorum and his army.

“We will win these...Bandit Wars...rest assured of that. If Gorum’s Army does come I will lead it, first as it's general, then perhaps one day....as it's queen.”

Octavia looked over the treasure of battle, picking a horse as her share of the prize.

Silas took a different approach with the bandits once he learned what he'd heard. "We are here to build communities and Happs and the people that continue to support behavior like his are completely contrary to that community. It sounds like you were making the best decisions you could in the face of death. If that is in fact true, tell us all you know of Happs and any other bandits in the area. Are they supported by any magic users or healers? Who is the ultimate boss? If you answer honestly and fully, we will consider options of mercy."

OOC: 07:50, Today: Secret Roll: Silas Silverstream rolled 19 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 13.  Diplomacy.

“I only deserve death.  I’m still thinking of looking forward to doing more robbing, pillaging, ...

He pauses and casts a lust filled look at Svetlana.

Oleg grunts under his breath and punches the man in the face; not once or twice, but repeatedly...

The man spits, laughs wickedly
“Another score of men at the camp, set as archers and carrying shields.  And Kressel that one will teach you a thing or three.   Guards are posted on platforms in trees and spot prey.”

The man laughs again and looks at Imira...

“Big boss is called the stag lord; I never met him; he’s like a myth but lives far into the Greenbelt.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:54, Wed 21 Mar 2018.

The elf hands his sword to Imira, "Last question I have - Where is Svetlana's wedding band?"

"Have him draw a map from here to the camp, and the camp with its sentries.  I doubt it will be totally accurate but it might be useful.", Drezghl whispered to Filarion.



OOC - Edit. I posted from my phone earlier and it didn't make much sense.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:49, Thu 22 Mar 2018.

Tatyana waits patiently while the rest of the group interrogates the obviously-guilty bandit.

"Your turns are coming," she reminds the two she held captive. "For your own sakes, I would suggest you answer truthfully - our priest and priestess can discern if you are lying or not."

Octavia already noting the horse that she was claiming, she looked over to Oleg. She was after all, the daughter of merchants, before becoming a priestess of Gorum. “Oleg, would you be willing to buy whatever gear we don't need? I don't expect you to offer coin, but perhaps a line of trade credit could be issued?”

“We should track them back to their camp and counter attack as soon as possible. If we don't, we wait for them here. It will not be long until the bandits we killed here will be missed.” Then looking around at the butchered corpses, Octavia continued. “We need to get these bodies buried before they begin to smell. The two bandits who the girl said where, innocent can help with that. If they do well at that, I would like to press-gang them into service as soldiers in the army of Gorum.”

The bandits eyes are swollen and his lip cracked from Oleg’s beat down.


“Kressel has no users of magic, but she has a stock of assorted potions; she sometimes uses just a swallow of healing potion to keep prisoners alive so she can continue to get information .  Not sure where the potions came from.”

The man swallows
“Not sure where the ring is, it might have been taken away in the night.  Some kind of fey or something came in and stole a few small bags of loot.”


Oleg looks worried and adds
“Bokken is a local potion maker, and my nearest neighbor.”
Oleg points......“A short ride.”


The girl Imira turns to Octavia
“These are not fighters, they should be here to work off there debt to Oleg...and to me.   If they live with nothing in tents for three years, fed by Oleg and working tirelessly on the repair of the fort, I will reward them; I will remove the memory of all horrors they have seen or heard, including the ones I can never be free of.”

The two bandit recruits faces light up.
“Can you truly free us?”
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:58, Thu 22 Mar 2018.

Nodding the elf says to Imira, "Do with him as you wish," he then hands his blade to her before walking over to the other two.

"The woman's offer seems sound to me. Three years is but a heartbeat, but you'd better not double cross us or your fate will mirror the third survivor. Prove your worth and you may earn a place in this new land. You'll start by burning the bodies of the dead bandits. The smoke will make the others think they finished the job and thus give us time to prepare our assault. While the bodies are burning, you two will draw is a map of the camp and their exact location. While we're gone you will be bound and placed in a room of Oleg's choosing."

"If this is agreeable to you all," he turns to each free person, "then let us get to it."

Filarion takes his armor off, then helps strip and stack the bodies.

While they are getting the map made, he asks Oleg, "Do you think this, Broken, no Bokken, is in league with the bandits or another victim of banditry?"

Tauron keeps his mouth shut.
He decided he did not wish to add anything to what was happening.
The group had listened to Imira and she could have her justice.
So he was happy.

Raz pipes up and smacks both bandits hard in the back.

"Looks like it's you're lucky day, lads. Oleg'll work you to the bone but at least you get to keep your head on your shoulders and perhaps, one day, get yourselves to be a part of real society once again."

He paused and considered the giant music case hidden in the stables.

"Perhaps I'll have need of a porter..."

With that he went over to the rapist they had caught and kicks the man's legs out from under him, forcing him to kneel with his neck exposed.

"Come on heroes, who wants to have the honors?"


He glances between Filarion and Octavia to see which one will cleave the man's head from his neck.

The elf gives the bard a frown, "Vengeance is for the one most harmed by this man." He gestures to Imira.

Octavia was more than a little annoyed at the girl contradicting her opinions to the group and showboating her healing ability. “I was not asking for your option girl, I was asking my comrades. If sentencing them to work for Oleg is what THEY decide, so be it.”

"My parents where killed too....by the bandits of the Greenbelt...A long time ago. Don't think me unsympathetic to your plight....That said, you are not a member of this crew, you are not my comrade. If you have some notion to ride and travel with us, get that thought out of your head right now."

"Behead who you need to girl, take one of the horses and some gold, silver and head back to Restov or stay here if Oleg and Svetlana wish for you to stay with them."

"The girl has made witness against these men and they have admitted their crimes.  As the wronged party, I believe that she has the right to pass sentence.", Drezghl said as he stepped forward.

Imira casts a spell drawing a weapon from the plane of shadow.  A semi solid Morningstar comes into her intact hand.

With it she targets the man between the eyes, finishing him in a single blow.

“This place is Oleg’s thus he should decide where this body belongs.”


Oleg coughs
“I say we hang his body outside on the back wall to warn away anyone else who thinks about robbing us.”

Svetlana interrupts
“Oleg; dear I thought you had decided not to do that...”

They have a whispered conversation before Oleg says
“Just add him to the other pile of bodies for creamation.”

Imira shrugs at Octavia
“I am sorry for your loss.”

Raz had drifted onward. He was not one to sit around and wait for conversations like "where to bury the bodies and was instead poking around and taking inventory of all the equipment the bandits had brought with them.

He started piling stuff into various piles, mainly "stuff that looked expensive" and "stuff that looked like junk".

Tatyana nodded her agreement to the sentence of the two; she stood back from them and allowed them to rise.

"Now that this matter is somewhat settled, let us collect whatever valuables and gear these men carried and see if our own outfits can be improved."

She strung her bow back over her shoulder and went about the business of stripping anything of value from the bandits; armor, weapons, trinkets - anything that could possibly be of value that wasn't ruined by bloodstains, brain-matter, or other combat horrors. She helped Raz and the others pile the gear on the nearby picnic table and organized it according to item and type - all very methodically. She then went outside the fort and dragged the corpses of those who had fallen into the fort and processed them accordingly.

During the course of her work, she attempted to reclaim as many of her arrows as possible. Afterwards, she stood with her comrades and surveyed the loot.

"Other than replenishing my quiver, the only item I would like is that darkwood bow," she asked more than stated, "unless someone else truly desires it?"

Once that matter was settled, she turned and moved to Imira. "Do you have a home in the area? If not, Oleg and Svetlana run a fair place, here. You might be able to ply your healing talents to the people in the region ...?" She let the question hang. Her tone was not condescending in the least, merely allowing the girl to consider her options. "That is, of course, if Oleg and Svetlana do not mind?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:21, Fri 23 Mar 2018.

In reply to Tatyana Dec'lan (msg # 145):

"I'll take a some coin and a good horse. Except for that, I have all that I need." Drezghl replied.


He goes to Imira. "You have shown me kindness with your healing.  Thank you.  I will repay you in the future. If there is something you require, please tell me.", Drezghl told her sincerely.

He turned and pointed to the two former bandits. "You two! You were given a task.  Get to it!"

Drezghl then stormed off to help collect the horses and move then to the stable.  Once they were corraled, he examined each of them and selected the one that he thought was the best.

Octavia looked at Drezghl and Imira with a somewhat blank expression. She began to say something, but stopped herself. Instead she began to help Raz and Tatyana pile the loot. All the while she kept her ears open.

“I think we should keep the pack mule and the Trail Rations. Foraging will take time and speed while on the march may be a factor."

OOC: 00:11, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 17 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 11.  Sense Motive.
00:11, Today: Octavia Cassiana rolled 20 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 15.  Appraise. on the Necklace(and in general, if needed again), price was not included during the last Appraise roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:14, Fri 23 Mar 2018.

Tauron turns to Oleg.
Oleg you able or do you have supplies of good quality ink and paper.
If you can I can make magical scrolls of healing.
It is always good to have backup scrolls.

In reply to Tatyana Dec'lan (msg # 145):

Silas had been eyeing the bow as well and said, "With a bow like that, your aim will be truer and your arrows will pack a stronger punch. A bow like that is to be treasured, cared for, used to defend our budding community. If we find another like it, I would ask to carry it, but I think for now Tatyana will make the best wielder given her proficiency and skills with the bow."

It is nearly midday when you finish sorting through the bandits  gear and disposing of the bodies.   Svetlana and Imira had went into the kitchen is a bit ago in order to prepare lunch the two tied and trussed bandits are cooling their heels in the shade of the stables.

Oleg has been watching the ongoing activities as he chimes in offering to buy additional gear from the party to restock his trading post and then you can put the funds into ordering or give you credit at the trading post at the mention of Bokken possibly being involved with the bandits....
Honestly boken is a bit eccentric he talks a lot of nonsense provincially goes on about his brother or step brother or someone he’s related to that did him wrong... Well Tauron I can order stuff but it takes a couple weeks to arrive if the weather allows it”


As lunch is being served a caravan arrives at Oleg’s gates....
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:37, Sat 24 Mar 2018.

This time Raz is wandering around strumming on a lyre. He is plucking the strings idly when the caravan arrives. Curious he wanders on over to get a good viewing point for the new arrivals.

Octavia as the day began to fly by had time to think about all that had happened. The battle, Gorum, the girl Imira and the death of her own parents many years ago weighed heavy on her mind. Finally, Octavia spoke up to the girl. “I've changed my mind. If it is your wish, you may ride and travel with us, if the rest of the crew have no objection....” Octavia then looked at her, as if viewing a younger sister. "Try not to get yourself killed."

At the sound of the caravan arriving Octavia hesitantly went to see who was coming in time for lunch.

Imira looks thoughtful for a few moments
”Octavia you are kind to me.  I will have to commune with the spirits of this land, check the portents of the starts.  It will take me time to rest; and my vision is not yet clear that Oleg’s fort is safe.  If Oleg’s falls so soon in your quest it will become much more difficult.”


She looks pleading at you
”Your quest has begun, I am not yet ready...Soon I will sleep perhaps for days.”

For her strength and magic the girl has to have time to recover, she is totally exhausted/fatigued and has been going in slow motion the whole time...

***********************
The wagontrain consist of two wagons one has an open bed appears to be full of wooden crates boxes and lots of lumber; the other is a covered wagon. You see two men steering each wagon and you see eight men walking alongside the wagons.

”Howdy Doodey” calls out Oleg to the man driving Athe lead wagon. He steers the wagon in close to the open gates of Olegs as he can get preparing it looks like to partially turn around and unload the lumber.
Perception DC 12

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

The lead horse is favoring his right foreleg; it appears he had thrown a shoe and if you have knowledge nature or handle animal DC 12 it is likely the horse will be put down

---

Suddenly the huge pot of stew and loaves of bread turning stale make sense, the convoy had been delayed....
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:10, Sat 24 Mar 2018.

Silas moves to greet the convoy and catches sight of the horse and it's missing shoe. He asks Oleg, "Do you have any spare horseshoes? I might be able to help with the horse if we have the right gear to prevent further injuries. If not, I fear that steed will have to be put down."

Drezdhl had finished setting up a picket line for the horses outside the fort so that they could graze. He was satisfied with the mount he had chosen and was looking forward to getting out into the wilderness. He had arrived here on foot now he was riding.  Things were looking up.

Svetland had rung the dinner bell to announce lunch a few minutes ago.  He arrived at the gate about the same time the first wagon rolled to a stop.

"Ho.  Wagon master. You're lead horse has hurt it's front leg. You should tend to it soon.", Grezghl said in passing.  He continued on to the tables for lunch.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Sun 25 Mar 2018.

Tatyana had watched the approach of the caravan from the south-western tower and noted the hobbling horse. While she believed she had nothing to fear from any of these new arrivals, she wondered at Imira and how the men might react to seeing her. She decided to head down and stay between the caravan-hands and the girl.

And made certain her blade was not peace-tied as she went down the stairs.

Filarion was hungry after the hardwork of dragging the bodies and burning them. As the caravan came in he thought the horse walked oddly, but, having no knowledge of the things of horse flesh, he didn't think anything of it. This caravan had nothing to do with him, so he sat down to eat unless specifically asked, he was a visitor to this old fort anyway. If asked he happily gets up and helps.

Raz finds a nice comfortable barrel to sit on and pluck at his lyre as he watches the caravan roll in and the rest of the group rush in to help. He continues to pluck and play, every so often taking the time to fiddle with it as if it was out of tune.

Tauron goes over and has a look at the horse to see if he can help fix the problem.

OOC:
22:43, Today: Tauron Alphmellon rolled 23 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 17.  Handle animal.

The man leading the wagons sets about barking orders.  The horses are unhitched and brought to the stables.  The men then go about the task of unloading the wagons.  Those concerned for the horse can help you realize it is most likely in need of rest..


Svetlana:
”How about we bring the bandits.., er men in from outside and get them a meal and see about cleaning them up?”
Oleg mumbles under his breath..
”Don’t get them too clean, I got eight hours of work to get out of them today!”

In short order the bandits are stripped down; Imira creates water over them as Svetlana offers each of them a half bar of soap.  They wash clothes and all.  In the midday sun they dry in a short while.

Soon they are eating heartily from the stew...
Oleg gives them a loaf of stale bread and water....

The men outside are still unloading lumber, as you can hear it being stacked against the outside wall....

The men (Tomas and Oliver) are wearing thread bare clothing roughly patched in several places. It's a bit sweat stained from the leather armor they were wearing. Both of their hair is shaggy and in need of a cut.

"I dun know how many of us there are we come and go, sometimes there's four at Kressle's camp, sometimes twenty. She's our boss, but her boss is a lunatic named the Stag Lord. I've only been to his fort way down south once, I couldn't find it again if I tried. Wouldn't want to if I did."He keeps rambling on, answering the questions in detail that had been previously put to  him, "Our camps about ten hours on horseback straight across the plains and through the forest. If you hit the river just travel along it to the crossing where our camp is at."

He draws a map in the dirt showing some of the terrain on the way to the camp and the river he spoke of, along with an x for the camp. It's 1 hex of plains, 1 of forest, and just a bit into the next one.

"I don't know nothing about the Stag Lord other then he's a powerful drunk. I could smell him the liquor on him from fifteen feet away. Not too right in the head either. I saw him punch a horse for spittin' in the fort. Happs told me he beat a man senseless for takin' a sip from bottle of whiskey. Ain't got no face either, just a helmet made from animal skulls with a pair of great antlers."

"I promise I don't know anymore, I only saw him once when Kressle dragged me down there with a load of goods. Our...I mean.. the bandit camp. I don't want no business with that anymore. I just wanna hunt deer; Kressle's a thief and a killer through and through. She's got no qualms about stringin' a man up for trying to lay their hands on her. Cept for Happs who she's a little sweet on."
"There's two watch towers 'bout twenty feet up a tree on the west side of camp and the east side. We just got a clearing with a big bonfire that we setup tents and bed rolls around.  Happs...he usually he...he would take an extra day to get back to camp. To kinda celebrate...you know...let us relax on the way back."

Oleg shakes hands with you all
”Thank you for your aid.  Consider this to be your home base or operations center as you explore.  I would like you to update a map here as you make each return trip; if that’s agreeable: and to know your planned routes and times to return.”

He offers you a collection of 3 potions: cure light wounds, magic weapon and hide from animals....

Raz considers the information and composes a couple little limericks to accompany his plucking at his lyre.

"There once was a man name Happ
Who came to Oleg's to scrap
But arrow did fly
And he caught one in the eye
And the heroes did call it a wrap.


There once was a lady named Kressel
In the woods she had a camp to nestle
The heroes shot from the bush
And hit her right in the tush
And now with the worm she will wrestle."


He started to grin but then frowned as he plucked the wrong note and gave an accusatory glare at his instrument. With a grumble he tossed it over his shoulder where it faded into magic motes and then wisped away with the wind.

"Alright then. I suppose we should hit them where it hurts as quickly as possible before they realize something is up. We can go in and scout them out and if there's only a few hit them hard and if there is too many prepare an ambush along the way between their camp and Oleg's and knock out another group."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:01, Mon 26 Mar 2018.

Tauron adds.
From what I understand the bandit group is not expected to return today so we can rest and be at full strength for the fight.

Tatyana nods to Oleg. "Aye, I'll put charcoal to parchment while we do what we do, and give you a fine rendition to add to your maps when we return," she smiled.

Listening to Raz and Tauron, she nods in agreement. "Scout them then route them, and mop up the stragglers in their turn."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Tue 27 Mar 2018.

Raz throws a wink and a grin at the rogue.

"A lady after mine own heart."

He cleared his throat and resumed plucking on his lyre composing another tune.

"We are Brevoy's Bastions
A drunken cavalry!
We cannot march, we cannot ride
What wretched knights are we!

But when we sense the enemy
Our heads get very clear
We'll head straight for that bandit camp
And liberate their gear!"

Oleg:
“Just you wait till old Doody gets in here he’ll break out his banjo!”

Imira notes the singing, Picks at her stew, eating a few bites here and there.  She considers The shrunken head in a jar as if looking for it to speak words or give her answers to her questions...  The raven, Tengu sits on her shoulder waiting for pieces of meat.
Octavia sits by her glancing at her from time to time.  It seems that perhaps history has caught up with the cleric and she has been thinking too much of the past.  What if this girl could tell her where to find the bandit that murdered her parents?

*********
No one is certain the horse is going to be ok or not; too hard to tell

 Those of you were outside or quickly brought over to help it seems that someone has ordered a blacksmith forge in amble and although it is crated it is way too heavy for most of the porters to handle....

You also notice four men one obviously in charge of the others and all of them apparently caravan guards or men at arms
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:33, Tue 27 Mar 2018.

Silas nods at the captives claims and says, "I only have one final question, when you went to the Stag Lord's Fort, were there any secret words shared or anything special you had to say or do so that they would know you were with him?"

The two bandits look back and forth to each other.
"No sir! Not know to us, but it seems like the main leaders might know it, the ones with the rank...er the stag's head necklace; all bandits are to heed orders by one who has rank."

Those outside.....
Along with the caravan you spot a sergeant with three young men barely out of basic training you gather from the looks of them…they are armed and wearing armor.

Now those inside....
The man comes in for Svetlanas stew, and introduces himself to Oleg. ”I am Kesten Garess, these men are under my command and I have been charged with defense of this outpost."   He presents an official letter from the Swordlords of Restov..

DC 20 Knowledge (nobility)

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
you seem to recall the scandal when an affair between Kesten and a lowborn woman named Tania, a weaver’s daughter, became public knowledge. His father Evan, a cousin of the Garess family patriarch, disowned Kesten, who fled to Restov to serve as a mercenary.

---

Imira looks over the men once as she continues to stare into the jar with the shrunken head.
Finally she looks up and says.  "I have seen a vision, a priest comes directed by Erastil to seek and restore a temple lost in the wilderness and in need of bringing forth once more.  I see it blocked by brambles and a great beast hidden within."

Tatyana's ears perk up and twitch at Imira's revelation. "A temple lost in the wilderness, you say? Can you recall anything of its surroundings, outside the brambles?" It doesn't take a genius to figure out that Tatyana apparently loves tales of lore and forgotten places.

"Erastil, eh? Have to keep my eyes open for that ..."

In reply to Tatyana Dec'lan (msg # 163):

Drezghl grunted in agreement.

"I like your idea.  It would be best to begin as soon as we can.  They will expect Happs to return in two days.  When he does not arrive on time, Kressel will become suspicious and alert."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:45, Thu 29 Mar 2018.

Imira looks at Tatyana and listens to her question
“I do not see it clearly, it is not meant for me, but for the priest who draws nigh and will arrive this very night.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:58, Thu 29 Mar 2018.

Tauron looks over at Imira.
But the question you not answered is the priest coming good for the people of this land or not.  Would it be good or ill that the temple is found again?
Not everything that lost should be found.  This much my reading has taught me.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:08, Thu 29 Mar 2018.

Working the lumber off, the elf notices the new guardsmen. Curious and getting a water break, he overhears the Captain's proclamation and furrows his brow. He'd heard that name before.

Suddenly it comes to him and he doesn't say anything. Better that information not get out.

Imiria shrugs and answers
“I believe Tauron that answer depends upon your relationship with Erastil.”

In reply to The Spirit of the Land (msg # 173):

Silas had been quietly considering what the witch had said and after a while responded, "The bandits must be dealt with first, but I would very much like to help find and restore this temple of Erastil. It would be a great boon to our budding community."

Raz seems unsure of what to do with his hands now that he doesn't have an instrument to play. As he looks around he considers the group and jerks a thumb towards the gate.

"Only one way to find out. Let us depart at first light and see what the Stolen Lands has to offer in terms of adventure and excitement."

Later that same night after Doody comes in and plays his banjo; and after Imira is fast asleep curled up in Svetlana’s kitchen.

A late night traveler arrives ”I am Jhod Kavken, priest of Erastil.”
The warriors seem to welcome the notion of having a priest in residence.
But Oleg is not so certain.

Kesten directs his men set their small tents up just south of the stable, in the shadow of the palisade….that activity is completed in short order and one man is assigned to walk and lookout from the four corners of the fort.


Jhod: ”It is well that so many of the faithful have gathered, I do hope you can help me seek out a lost temple of Erastil somewhere to the south. A large bear is near the site and in my dreams the bear is not just any bear, it is a curse.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:36, Thu 29 Mar 2018.

Tatyana looks at Jhod and sizes him up. She bristled at his comment, however.

"Faithful? Faithful to whom? Perhaps you should tell us of your god and its domains before you assume our loyalty?"

She crossed her arms over her chest and arched a single slender eyebrow at the newcomer.

The cleric nods...
“I am sorry I meant those who gather around community and have faith in their fellows; not specifically those devoted to the teachings of Erastil.”

Oleg pipes in
”This lot is chartered to explore, map and wipe out bandits; a first step along the way I imagine.”

The cleric Johod
“I failed to research any going one before I left.  The message in my dreams was to go now.  And most opportuned timed.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:08, Fri 30 Mar 2018.

Raz had been accompanying Doody with a set of drums he played in time to the music. When the priest came he once again tossed his instrument over his shoulder where it once again dispersed into magical motes blown on the wind.

By this time he was quite deep into whatever ale Oleg had available and his swayed to and fro as he wobbled on over.

"Oh we'll find this temple for you and reclaim it for the gods. And we'll beat up a bunch of bandits in the process. And we'll secure this whooooole region to boot. But first, we drink!"

He tips his head back and downs a bit more of the ale before thrusting a mug towards the priest.

Jhod : "Indeed though stranger things have happened, I thought to perhaps seek the temple directly, but your group has the charter for exploration and I wished to respect that."

Jhod....in a booming voice that all can hear
"Much terror hast befallen this land, with families, tha very fabric o tha land rent asunder!....This plight is unacceptable we shall endeavor our might to fix it."

Kesten: ”Not to worry the fort is now manned!”
Sense motive DC 12

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
You are certain the man meant no slight, just plain spoken

---

Oleg: "Well keep looking I hope the ring turns up."

Jhod: "I am a priest and the visions come to me and I follow the lead to this place.  Should you see such a place in your exploration let me know and you will be rewarded."

Tauron turns to the priest.
I have few questions.  First you serve the god of the hunt right?

Jhod the priest answers:

” There are many names; Old Deadeye, Stag God, Estig the Hunter, a both Lawful and good deity
primarily concerned with Family,  Farming, Hunting and Trade.  Though one might list tenets or read from sacred texts; ‘‘tis mostly about caring for and organizing ones community.”

The elf smiles.

Then you are on a hunt for the temple?

The priest had been drawing up a paper to post on Oleg’s bulletin board....

”Indeed one might say that, if one were so inclined.”

Temple of the Elk

Source: Father Jhod Kavken, at Oleg's Trading Post

Task: Seek out a lost temple of Erastil believed to be somewhere to the south of Oleg's Trading post.  According to Jhod, the site may be guarded by a large bear, and apparently something isn't quite "right" about the bear.

Completion: Locate the ruined temple, deal with the guardian, and guide Father Kavken there so that he may reconsecrate the site as an active temple of Erastil.

Reward: Jhod has promised to provide spellcasting services free to the party for life (with the exception of expensive material components, which the group must still supply).
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:05, Mon 02 Apr 2018.

Raz groans at Tauron's pun.

"Begone foul devil, lest you besmirch the sacred tongue even more!"

Tauron turns to Razmatin Vulcovila.

Do you speak Celestial.  I never could get the hang of it.  I found it to white and black for my liking.  It lacked colour.  Everything seem to be either good or evil.
A gray rain-cloud is just that a gray rain-cloud.  It not either good or evil.  Or you could think of it as both.  As far as I see it just cloud that may rain on you or not.

He then turns back to Jhod.

I am little confused.  Are you hunting down the temple or are you getting other to do it for you like our group or both?

Jhod the cleric
”I believe there is much I can do here.  If you find and clear the temple, bring me to it and I then will consecrate it once more to a proper place.  I wish to honor your charter of exploration and mapping the locale.”

Do you know anything about the bear.
Unlike most people I not overly keen to kill the bear.
It been cures it seems unfair to just kill it.
Also how long has the temple been lost.
Bear do not live more than 25 winters I believe.

Raz piped up beside Tauron.

"Yes it would be a shame if we rode all this way and prepared ourselves for battle only to find the bear had died of old age. In fact I would say that would be...un-bear-able."

Jhod shakes his head ( at the parade of puns) then nods
”I know not if the bear hast been there the whole time or if it was recently taken to living there.  So the age of the bear is not definitive.”

Octavia had been silent as Jhod explains his quest for a missing temple. Now that battle was over her mood was souring quite a bit.

"If your god was not strong enough to keep the temple why should we reclaim it for him? If my blade clears whatever monsters or bandits have desecrated that space why shouldn't I claim it in Gorum's might?"

Octavia flexed her gauntlet into a fist and punched it into her other open palm with a loud clank of metal on metal. She was once again speaking loudly and boldly in an open challenge.

While the others were preoccupied with the priest and talks of his temple, Filarion takes the opportunity to talk with Kesten away from the others and his men. He fills him in on the situation with the two reformed bandits, "I'm not telling you how to do your job. I'm just stating you should keep an active eye on those two just in case, as a concerned citizen of this new endeavor."

There conversation then turns to their homelands where Filarion talks of his teacher and makes a point to say, "This is a land of new beginnings is it not? A place where one could get a second chance. Don't you agree?"

Jhod to Octavia
” I know, I know; but based upon the age of Oleg’s outpost I would say that the temple and Oleg’s are both approximately 40 years old in that time if Gorham had wanted to claim the lost temple I’m sure that he would have; or would have sent you such a vision.  I am offering a job to your g oil, if you rather someone else claim the prize, that’s up to you.  I am obviously not going to fight over a thing that neither of us knows where it is.  We are not beggars fighting over a copper coin that hast rolled into the dirt.”



Kesten to Filarion
”Aye, and what of the sleeping girl? We are ere told Oleg had no children.  I agree ‘‘tis likely that no one would give no mind of your past in such a place.”

"It is true that the girl is not theirs. She was in the hands of some bandits and had been abused by them. She does seem a bit off to me, so it wouldn't be a half bad idea if you were to check up on her from time to time. I'll speak to Svetlana as well. Maybe she can reach the girl and keep her occupied."

In reply to Octavia Cassiana (msg # 191):

He smiled at Octavia's gusto and said, "I would be the reason you wouldn't just claim it. We will be working on it together and you seem to have forgotten my patron deity is Erastil as well. I'd be very disappointed if you tried to steal the temple to my deity. Wouldn't be very communal of you now, would it?"

He then added, "Not that we couldn't find a place to add a temple to Gorum as well."

Tatyana had watched the conversations back and forth. She had chosen a fine palomino steed, gold-coated with a white mane and tail. When no one was watching, she gave the horse an apple from her pack, and then spent time brushing him and speaking to him in elven. She transferred some of her pack items to the saddlebags that the horse would later be wearing, but for now, she kept the animal free of encumbering things.

Later on, she had placed her old longbow in with the other items for sale at Oleg's store, and she cleaned and polished the darkwood bow that her friends had been kind enough to let her have from the loot. She tested its heft over and over, marveling at the craftsmanship and the strength of such a light material. She knew it would be more accurate and more deadly than her previous bow. She made a silent oath to Ketephys to protect her friends at all costs with this joyous new weapon.

For those who truly paid attention, they saw her add three small, almost imperceptible notches toward the base of the bow, and in fine elven runes, the name "Happs".

She then strung it over her shoulder and went straightaway to Svetlana. "Svetlana, my dear, do you have any wine or mead? I could sorely do with a cup or three," she smiled.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:25, Wed 04 Apr 2018.

Octavia raised an eyebrow as Silas joined in on Jhod's side. She scoffed and shrugged.

"Luckily for the both of you Gorum has little need for a pile of ruined stones. I shall pay him glory in battle reclaiming the site and then you can owe your thanks to Gorum as well for delivering strength to protect the weak and fallen."

With a curt nod she turned away, finished with the subject and preferring to get the last word in edgewise. Besides she had armor to clean and a giant sword to sharpen.

Svetlana was petting Imira’s head as she slept.
”Yes of course we have some mead and some better wine.”

Oleg grumbles as he notices the apparent stray wounded beast that his wife has taken in.
”She best be good at magic with one hand she won’t do no good with a hammer and nails.”

Looking thoughtful for a second
”what would it take to have portable alters that way when I rent a room I can also rent an alter?”


Svetlana
” what time will you be heading out I would like to prepare you a breakfast before you go ?”

Drezghl, a follower of Gorum, though not nearly as devout as Octavia; watched as she and Jhod went back and forth over who got to claim the lost temple.

He sighed and poured some whiskey from his wine skin into a tin cup.