The first month of spring is considered the halbearer of the year. The Festival of Blossoms marks the beginning of Spring proper, where the chill of winter gives way to the first blossoming's of flowers and green growth of the forest. If it remains cold beyond the first month, it means a bitter spring and hotter summer. This year the first month of spring was bitterly cold, drawing some slight fear that the Festival would be delay if not cancelled. Fortune turned swiftly towards the end of the first month, giving way to a warm spring that few expected. The rush to be ready for the Festival caused all manners of confusion, until the elders of Gentlebreeze took matters into their own hand and brought everything into order.

It is on the eve of the Festival of Blossoms, with flowers blooming between each tree, through the meadows of your home. Xialo the Green Mage walks through each grove, calling for the flowers to bloom. The songs of the Loremaster Bareil Sinsaulii echo through the town, illusions playing amongst the boughs of the trees. Shandra Quelsainil keeps the volunteer members of the Watch alternate shifts to keep her recruits fresh, though she never seems to step down to relax her guard. Finally, the High Priest Anaduil Reykalyn and Storemaster Qin Leithianeth work to ensure that the festival is properly blessed by Corellon and to use the older stores in new and interesting ways, to delight the taste buds even if the item was preserved.

As dusk falls, fairy lights play about your homes, each elf with musical talents lends their melodies to the night air. Spontaneous picnics pop up in every clearing, displaying the bounties for anyone to sample. Almost all are engaged in friendly chatter, some more serious than others, awaiting moonrise and the High Priests' call for the Blessing of Corellon upon the people and village of Gentlebreeze.

Casyr was at his appointed post keeping a vigilant watch out for any intruders or problems that might interfere with the celebrations going on inside the village. One could never be to careful Captain Quelsainil had often said.

This was when the village was most vulnerable. Thus they had to be the most vigilant at their posts. He had mouthed the songs recited by others but kept his voice to himself so as not to give away his own location.



19:30, Today: Casyr rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  Listen (+3 more vs Orcs).
19:30, Today: Casyr rolled 21 using 1d20+7.  Spot (+3 more vs Orcs).
19:33, Today: Casyr rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  Hide (+3 more vs Orcs).

Ruven could not contain his joy as he walked through the town. The flowers were in bloom, music filled the air, and the people were joyously chatting. There were few things Ruven loved more than festivals. When he heard singing the elf gladly joined in, singing along with the Loremaster and other citizens.

However Ruven did not mindlessly wander. As a servant of the temple the elf was tasked with insuring everyone was ready for the festival. He bounced from group to group, carrying food, answering questions, and various other small tasks.

20:25, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  Perform: Singing.

Springtime was a time that all in the village waited for.  The flowers, the warm sun, and the Festival of Blossoms.  Though Shanaera usually wore dark clothing this was one time in the year that she got colorful.  She enjoyed all the preparations and often helped her father cast illusions for others to look at and wonder at the imagination.

Shanaera didn't add her voice to the singing though.  It pained her that she couldn't sing but she could dance and so she did.

At one point she looked for Aergleel to see what he was doing to prepare for the Festival.

Like all young elves Amardes had been looking forwards to this. Her reasons were perhaps not the same as her teachers who were all about 'the ephemeral beauty of the blossom' but she did like 'the end of the harsh times', and especially liked no classes. She'd gone for a run through the forest first thing, and swum in her favourite pool to clean up and get ready. Her mother had told her to 'comb her hair' and she'd given it a go, but really she was too busy to do things like that. She'd had a happy couple of hours hunting though during the middle of the day, and that had dealt with her hunger and need to move her body

Amardes didn't have any particular talents that were suitable for this kind of event so she'd drifted from Orchard to Orchard. For her most of the delicacies were inedible, but she could tell everyone else was enjoying them, and that gave her pleasure in the watching. There was some special Deer Jerky her father had made, mixed with berries and honey, that was still palatable and not cooked to death, and she had a couples of pieces of that just before dusk. It wasn't as good as the rabbit she'd caught for lunch, but it made her father happy she took it, and making him happy made her happy.

She was quite looking forwards to the blessing. Blessings were a thing of power, that made sure the world worked the way it should. She understood that, the earthpower that flowed through her told her it was right, and she was a little excited that this year her magical powers were enough that she could actually take part. It was only a minor role, but she would be helping ritually purify some of the offerings.

Dusk found her with the celebrants, a .. she had been told ... quite pretty robe thrown over her usual attire. Next to her was her friend Tillaletherial and she whispered "Just go over the instructions again". She didn't think she would make a mistake, but she only had a little earth power and she didn't want to make a mistake

Aergleel danced through the village as well, singing in his tenor voice, though not loudly. He looked for Shanaera as well, wanting to spend time with her this evening. He had loved her since he was 15 years old, now he was 105. They had many good times, almost like Siamese twins and inseparable growing up. Now they were older and it wasn't the same any more.

The Festival was an afterthought for him now though he was having a good time.

Kor trotted and danced amongst the elves, following the words of his mentor, Xialo. 'Embrace the times of plenty and comradeship, for the morrow can always be destitute and lonely.' For all his differences with the elves, he was a creature of the wild, and they had treated him well enough to invite him to their festivities. He was careful not to step on others' feet, so his dancing was more to avoid injuring others than the joy of dancing. As he made his way towards the central clearing, he heard the familiar voice of Amardes, and he walked closer to better hear her words.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:03, Wed 06 May 2020.

Casyr stood ready to defend his home against possible incursions during the festival, but little happened until dusk. He heard a whisper of cloth just barely in the night air before his teacher and Captain arrived. Shandra looked around, nodding her head in approval at your hiding place and the twitch that had revealed you heard her. "Be at peace, youngling. You have done your duty well. I am impressed you heard my approach at all, but I did train you, so maybe I should have expected this?" She spoke warmly, taking a position next to you. "The ceremony is due to begin soon, and you have stood watch most of the afternoon. Consider yourself relieved for the evening. Soon I will have Iahacovas take his traditional spot as night watcher. Go! Spend time amongst younglings your own age! Enjoy the festival as it was meant to be." She spoke, both scolding lightly but with humor and relieving you of your duties for the evening.

Ruven offered a particular gift to the proceedings, somebody marked by all the things Corellon admired. Swordplay, magic, but most of all, music to lighten the heart and bring joy to those around them. Soon it seems that the elves begin to serve themselves and each other, knowing that Ruvan would probably enjoy the festivities himself.

Bareil Sinsaulii, Loremaster of the village of Gentlebreeze, watched his daughter perform her works of art with pride. Although few would know it, she was truly as gifted in her illusions as he was in his singing. There was a small sense of sorrow for the disease that had afflicted his daughter so many years ago, he considered it a minor cost for the natural talent she displayed. As she sought out her young friend, Bareil smiling, thinking fondly of Shanaera's mother. 'Different times, different times.' He thought to himself, making his way towards the main clearing.

Although excused for the ceremony proper, Aergleel helped out much like Ruven had with ensuring the elves celebration. It was a mark or so before the beginning of the ceremony in which he and Shanaera encountered each other, in small clearing with a few other elves discussing the spring ahead.

Tillaletherial responded to Amardes as Kor walked closer by. "Don't be silly, Your mother went over this with you just yesterday, remember? When she was reminding you to wear something nice to the Festival? You just release your magical energy so that Xialo and Anaduil can manipulate it to ensure the blessing happens correctly. I guess the timing part is important, but I am sure it will be obvious when to do so! We should go enjoy the party, look, here is young Kor, Xialo's apprentice!" She spoke, laughing lightly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:26, Wed 06 May 2020.

When his last task was done Ruven gave a dramatic bow and excused himself. The festival was in full swing and he happily joined in on the dancing. As he moved along with the crowd he noticed tons of familiar faces, however one seemed to be missing. He slowly exited the crowd and walked towards the edge of town. "Casyr get down here! You're going to miss the festival!" He couldn't actually see Casyr, the man was great at hiding, so he merely shouted at the treetops. He waited a few moments for Casyr to join him before he returned, Ruven had no intention of missing the festival himself!

Tillaletherial's amused response helped Amardes a bit. She was probably stressing over nothing. It didn't feel like nothing, it was such an important ritual for the village, but Tillaletherial was right. Amardes was never quite sure what other Elves meant by 'nice clothes'. She'd thrown on her usual clothes and then had to change into some less comfortable things. It did make her mother happy, even if Amardes couldn't really tell the point of it. As far as she could tell adding beads and complicated stitching to perfectly good cloth just got awkward when trying to do anything practical. How could you sneak up on anything when the beads just make it easier for the undergrowth to catch?

Kor's arriving was a welcome distraction, and Amardes brushed away some of her untidy hair to see him more clearly. She usually enjoyed the time she spent with the centaur: he seemed to express the Wild more than most Elves "Hey Kor" she said brightly pushing away her worries. "How is the dance?" yet another complicated thing that a lot of her fellow villagers seemed to spend a lot of time on. Still the dance classes were better than the bookwork classes: at least you could use your body, even if not very hard. The other Elves would talk about 'Harmony with nature expressed through movement', and every now and then Amardes would 'get it', but it didn't really feel like 'her thing'. Still the spectacle of so many Elves dancing was a pleasure to watch, and the way they moved around Kor and incorporated him into their movements demonstrated skills Amardes knew she would never be able to aquire

"Fancy going hunting tomorrow?" she asked. "I saw the trail of a White Hart this noon." For such a dangerous animal she'd want company, and she liked to travel fast while hunting. Kor was one of the few people that could keep up with her: another thing she liked about him
This message was last edited by the player at 11:28, Fri 08 May 2020.

Casyr relinquished his post, though he felt uneasy to do so. It was a dangerous time and he felt certain that some calamity awaited them. Nevertheless he moved into the village and did mill about. He continued to keep his eyes and ears open though and chose not to frolic with the many revelers. He was probably just uneasy after all this was the time when the village was most vulnerable, and if he were leading an attack this is the time he'd choose to attack when the enemy was weakest. It had been a long time since the orcs had last attacked though, but that was their cycle. They would attack, deplinish their numbers, retreat, grow in numbers, then attack again. There was usually a span of years between the attacks to allow them to replinesh their numbers.

Having finally spotted Aergleel, Shanaera moved over towards him.  She tried to sneak up on him by using other people as shields in the case that he turned around or something.  Often when they were younger the two would play hide and seek with the other children and Shanaera would quite often be one of the last to be found, so too was Aergleel cause he often followed her to her hiding places.  It was a fond memory as Shanaera now stalked her prey.
09:12, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  hide.

If Shanaera caught him unawares, she would come up behind him and place her soft hands offer his eyes and in a soft voice say, Got you!

Kor sighs slightly, shrugging his torso. "Greetings Amardes. I think I have avoided most peoples feet so far. No one has thrown their loved across my back either, so overall a decent festival"He spoke, adding a little humor to the conversation. Of all the young elves he knew, Amardes was a kindred soul to his own thoughts. They were creatures of the wild, with gifts that should be used to live and protect it.

Thinking over her suggestion, he nodded. "A White Hart is truly a rare creature, especially this time of year. If we hunt it true and give it the proper preparations, I cannot see why we would not bring a bounty back to Gentlebreeze. Perhaps it will be a good omen for the coming year?" He pondered out loud. The centaur was not unskilled with bow or spear, but reserved his magics for truly dangerous foes.

Aergleel turns and puts his hands on her hips, "No, I got you." and he leans down and gives her a soft kiss on the mouth.

When Aergleel quickly turned and leaned in for a soft kiss, Shanaera melted.  She loved this about Aergleel, she knew that he was a rough and tumble type, but with her, he was... revealing.  After a few seconds of thoroughly enjoying the kiss, Shanaera separated, "You certainly do!"  Shanaera said with a meek smile.

Taking his hand in hers, Shanaera said, "I absolutely love this time of year.  I am so happy that the festival is still going on.  There was a real threat to it being delayed my father said. Let's go find our friends and see if they are having fun."

"Lead on my lady." he says to her taking her hand in his as they walked.

"That's because you look so fierce and brave" Amardes explained. She wasn't exactly a blushing fainting thing, but even she was always a little nervous when 'the Rage of The Elements' was around "All we need to do is ..." she reached over to some of the many flowers that were everywhere and plucked some "...braid these into your mane. What do you think Tillaletherial. How many will be enough?"

She nodded at the comments "It would have been a better omen if I'd actually seen it" she bit her lip a little: she was no expert at these matters... perhaps just seeing the trial would be enough. Still if they went first thing in the morning they would see it tomorrow and that should be just as good... shouldn't it? She flashed Kor a little slightly embarressed smile "Tell you. If I didn't have a role in this, I'd probably be out there now. What do you say as soon as this is over heading out" she was pretty certain Tillaletherial would want to stay and party... Elves really knew how to party ... but Amardes could feel the Call of the Hunt and would rather be out in the forest than more dancing and music.

As you all gather for the Festival of Blossoms, you notice each other near the ceremonial site. High Priest Anaduil Reykalyn, Master Builder Taelia Leithianeth, Lorekeeper Bareil Sinsaulii, and the Guardian of Nature Xialo the Green Mage all arrange themselves in the four cardinal directions. As the moon begins to rise, a soft breeze plays across the village of Gentlebreeze. Those elves so inclined provide prayers to the night air, while those capable of casting spells walk to the perimeter of the ceremonial site. It was not required, but any who wished to add to the spell power of the Mythral that protected Gentlebreeze were encouraged to do so. It is said that Corellon Larethian smiled upon those who helped to protect the community, and so as the moon crests over the horizon of trees, its pale light shining bright upon the site, you can visibly see the spell energy emerging from the participants.

From High Priest Anaduil, a font of dark blue energy erupts from his hands and face, flowing into the air. From Master Builder Taelia, deep green energies erupt from the earth and flow up her form and emerge from her face, twinning in the night air above the site. Lorekeeper Bareil begins to sing, vibrating the very air with his song, extoling the virtues of the Elves as yellow energy swirls in the air around him, flowing towards the other energies already gathered. Finally, the Guardian of Nature Xialo gathers the elemental energies from the world around him, swirling like fire with potent red energies to push forward to merge with the gathered energy in a near blinding display of High Magic. The four elemental energies swirl and merge, becoming a beacon of shining silver light that can potentially be seen for miles around, as the light fades in brightness, the High Priest speaks. "Let all who wish to aid our village step forward, and add your spell power to the Mythal that protects and ensures our prosperity each year with Corellon's blessings." He spoke clearly, and with purpose.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:56, Tue 12 May 2020.

Casyr had no spell power, at least not yet. He still looked on at the ceremony. Someday he could add his own spells to it but he had not yet progressed far enough in the order to have spells yet so for now he could only be an observer and ready should anything attack during this vulnerable time.

Watching the colors merge and gather, Shanaera was enjoying the spectacle standing hand-in-hand alongside Aergleel.  When the elders of Gentlebreeze asked if anyone wanted to add their spells to the Mythal, Shanaera stepped forward.  She began to cast her spell.  Gray wisps of magic began to spiral around her and then up into the sky.  The spell took on the form of a shining knight in a fighting stance ready to defend himself and the village.  After a few moments as the breeze caught the gray wisps, it began to join the fading lights from the elders.

Cast Silent Image
This message was last edited by the player at 04:57, Mon 18 May 2020.

"Saved by the bell" Amardes said with a little evil grin. She'd obviously quite enjoyed teasing Kor, and the idea of the Rage of the Elements with flowers in his mane appealed to her. Still the ceremony had arrived. She gave a quick 'this is the right time right?' look to her friend before joining in. Her spell pretty simple but symbolically important. Without magics to preserve and purify food, their whole culture would have to change, and a lot of people would be a lot sicker.

Ruven wandered around the edge of the town but after a while it was obvious he had chosen a poor spot. He shrugged as he returned to the festivities. As he got closer he realized he had just made it in time for the important event. He could see through the crowds the energy swirlling through the air, signifying the leaders had begun the ritual. "Pardon me, excuse me, coming through" Ruven whispered as he pushed his way to the front. He arrived at the ceremonial sight just as his father, the high priest, spoke. Eager to do his part for the village Ruven channeled the magic in himself to conjure the strongest spell he could. His eyes briefly became a swirl of colors as his entire body started to glow a bright white light. The light radiated outward before it rapidly diminished, the spell's power absorbed in the ritual.

Kor snorts at Amardes joke, but remains respectful of the ceremony. He walks forward when the High Priest asks for donation of spell energy, gathering his entire reserve to be released into the Mythal to defend the people who took him in. Exhausted, but pleased, he returns to Amardes. "I think perhaps we will need to see in the morning about the hunt." He spoke, yawning slightly.

The festival runs through the night, some taking part in the dancing and merry making, others returning to bed (sometimes not their own) for the night. Such is the way of parties, and in the morning young children can be seen playing games of picking up rubbish to be taken care of properly across Gentlebreeze. The flowers have opened, scenting the air with their thick perfume, almost covering the land in their joy for spring to have finally come.

Each of you awaken to the dawn, the tapping of a raven's beak upon your dwelling. When you open the door/look to see what is going on, Ebonwing, the familiar of the Lorekeeper, caws at you, speaking in Common. "Come to the Grove, we have need of you. Bring your traveling gear." It speaks, before flying away to its next errand. This is unusual, because normally the days after the Festival are ones of rest and relaxation, to fully embrace the grace of nature's turn.

Once you have gathered your items and made your way to the Grove, you notice almost all the Elders of the town have been summoned. High Priest Anaduil, Watch Captain Shandra, Master Builder Taelia, Lorekeeper Boreil, Nature's Guardian Xialo, and Weaponsmith Kaelthas. On a large canvas tarp a variety of items are laid out:

- A composite bow made of fir wood.
- A large steel shield in the vague shape of a curled dragon.
- A silvery horn inlaid with mystic runes.
- A pair of gauntlets made of blackened leather and etched with geometric designs.
- An ebon staff the reflects no light from its surface.
- A wooden holy symbol in the shape of a leaf, made from an amalgamation of different woods.
- A wrapped bundle of what looks like weapons.
- A wrapped bundle of what looks like armor.

It looks like they are waiting patiently, discussing something urgent between them though as you arrive.

Casyr wasted no time gathering his things and heading to see what the elders wanted. It must be really important for them to have sent the raven so early in the morning. He did not have much to carry though but made sure to pick up his purse as well in case he needed to purchase additional supplies to accomplish whatever task they had in mind. As he arrived he waited quietly for them to acknowledge him and tell him what they needed.

Amardes woke up her parents to tell them the news and give them a quick hug and a good bye kiss. This was seriously cool: the Elders had asked for her personally. And she and some of the other younglings were going on a trip! Wow! Perhaps this was for a hunting trip, but she didn't think it would be so formal. So maybe it was hunting something other than animals and plants for the Pot

As she entered the hall she peeked past Kor at the pile of treasures whispering to him "Looks like the White Hart will have to wait. Gosh look at those..."

While not the smartest tool in the box, she could count people and count implements, and it wasn't hard to associate most items to people. Her eyes obviously settled on the gauntlets. They looked seriously potent. The sort of thing her Father would tell her stories about. Her sense of excitement didn't diminish at all. In fact it was quite hard to keep still and not just gawp.

The sense of excitement was tinged by just a little nervousness. This was important. The Elders didn't give out treasures lightly. The weapons and armor told her that they expected combat. That meant they expected their mission to be either opposed, or just in a very dangerous place. Still she knew the others in the group, knew their skills and powers, and that's why it was just 'a little nervousness'.

Aergleel rises from the shared bed and throws his clothes on to race home and get his gear. He leaves on a long passionate kiss, "See you shortly!" he says as he squeezes her hand.

He gathers his gear and kisses his mother and father goodbye. He then goes to the meeting place to await details.

"Wha-what is that racket?" Ruven groaned as he lifted his head. The elf had partied long and hard into the night. He wasn't sure how much wine he drank last night, but it was enough to make his meditation much harder than normal. Through narrowed eyes he opened his window, which contained awful sunlight, at the bird who seemed to have requested access. A meeting? On this day of rest? The request seemed unsual but Ruven knew he would not  have been summoned without a reason.

Half an hour later Ruven walked out carrying his gear. For the most part he had sobered up although a minor headache still lingered. As he approached the grove however his focus shifted from his head to the situation. What were his father and the other elders gathered here for? Why did the tone of their conversation seem serious? Tension seemed to have fill the air around Ruven. He noticed that several other young elves seemed to have been gathered here. "Does anyone know what this is all about?" he whispered to the group as he joined them and waited for the council to speak.

Shanaera had such a great evening.  She had partied with the other younger elves and Aergleel till late.  Together they had gone back to her place and fell asleep a bit later.  Early in the morning, Shanaera felt a calling in her head.  It was Nightwing, Shanaera knew as she had felt it before, and as soon as Shanaera had 'felt' Nightwing, she heard the tapping on her door.  Shanaera listened to Ebonwing with Aergleel.  For some reason, they were being called to the grove.

Aergleel gave her a passionate kiss and then took off.  "I will see you soon,"  Shanaera said back and then started grabbing her stuff.  She made sure to grab any of the spell components she might need as well.

When Shanaera got to the grove she noticed that the elders were all gathered and speaking with one another.  She saw a few of the other young elves she had partied with last night there as well.  When Ruven asked what it was about Shanaera could only shake her head and say, "I have no idea.  My father hadn't said anything about any of this."  Shortly after Aergleel showed up just a confused as her.  Shanaera wanted to go to her father and ask what was going on but knew that soon enough they all would know.  Shanaera did wave to her father though and gave a meek smile and shrug of her shoulders.

Kor slumbered in his lean too, not quite a stable and not quite a hut, near the sacred grove in which he dwelled. Xialo had helped him shape his home, and it was a sturdy resting place. He didn't mind being awoken so early by the ravens message, though he could have done without the tapping. Listening carefully, he packed his journey saddle bags with supplies that he might need should they be caught in the sudden spring storms that could happen. Pulling the quiver across his back, and setting his bow string proper, he grabs his spear as well as he places his bow across his back. He had been told that these were the weapons of his people, so he trained in their use for the day that he might one day join a herd.

Trotting over to the short distance where the Elders were speaking, he is as usual the last of his...friends, to arrive. "By Obad-Hai's branches, I don't think I will ever be used to getting up early. What say you all, did we happen to find out what is happening?" He asked, yawning slightly.

As the last of you arrive, the Elders turn and walk over to you. High Priest Anaduil speaks first, looking at both Ruven and Aergleel briefly. "I am glad that you answered our summons with all due haste. I am sorry to interrupt the days of rest and relaxation that are normally granted during the Festival, but Lorekeeper Boreil informed me this morning of an urgent matter." He spoke, turning the conversation over to Lorekeeper Boreil.

The Lorekeeper clears his throat slightly, looking at Shanaera with a little worry before speaking. "As I am sure you know, most of our metals come from our dwarven allies far to the north of our realm. Usually by this time, their caravan is within a few days travel from Gentlebreeze, well within my ability to divine their location and ensure they are protected within our realm. I cannot find them at all, and Guardian Xialo says that the forest has not felt their presence since this same time last year. Weaponsmith Kaelthas normally rides to meet them, since he is a friend of their clan, but he has yet to receive word of their travel from his contacts.

We have need of you to go and search out the caravan, assist our allies, and return to Gentlebreeze before summer spreads across the lands. We will of course ensure that you are provisioned before you leave, and each of us have gifts for you to help ensure your safe and successful return. Do you have any questions?" Boreil asked, not indicating that the large canvas of items should be approached yet.

Ruven nodded his head as he listened to the elder's explanation. A delayed caravan huh? That seemed an easy enough request. The elf scratched his chin as he thought about any more information he might need. "I guess what is the name of this dwarven clan we will be looking for and where were they supposed to come from? Also is there some sort of badge we need to prove we represent Gentlebreeze? I would hate to find the dwarves and they assume we are bandits."

"Do you have a map of the area that would show us the route normally taken by the caravan? Do any of us speak dwarven as I do not and the inability to communicate might be a barrier to far." Casyr asks.

Amardes supposed that she was just naive. She wouldn't have thought of asking for 'proof they were Elves from Gentlebreeze'. She just supposed that since they were Elves and in the area it would be enough for the swarves, especially if they'd been attacked in the area by monsters. But then she remembered the tales of dwarven suspicion. She'd always assumed they were a bit exaggerated but perhaps not.

The others were all asking good questions, so other than shaking her head about the question on dwarven Amardes kept quiet and listened to the answers. It didn't sound good to her this situation: a caravan of dwarves was quite a dangerous target, and anything that could take that out, could probably hurt a lot of Elves too.

Shanaera listened to the elders and then the others who had been chosen to go on this mission.  Shanaera had a question of her own, "How do we even know if the dwarves were sent this year?  Yes, they come every year but how do we know they left their dwarven home even?  Have we sent anyone there to ask that question?  If not I am assuming that is what we will be doing."

Weaponsmith Kaelthas steps forward to answer your questions. "The name of the clan is Stonebreaker, young one. Say 'Umrai', it will identify you as a friend of dwarves, though even then it is not given they will believe you.

A map will be provided, as well as markers for their normal route of travel.

To answer your question, Shanaera, I do have a way of communicating with the clan, though it takes time. They let me know that the caravan started out from their home a month ago. It takes about a month and a day or two for the caravan to arrive here in a normal year, but it has been four days past where we should have at least know they are near.

We only hope that they have been delayed, but if not, you are all capable of investigating what has happened and responsible enough to be trusted to make your own decisions when you get there." He spoke, speaking bluntly.

Amardes felt she was learning quite a lot. She'd learnt about dwarves and their suspicious nature, she'd learnt a bit about how this type of trade took place. And she'd done some thinking about what might have delayed the caravan and prevented communications. None of her suspicions were pleasant ones, and the rather blunt message in the Weaponsmith's words just amplified them

One of the messages that definately perked her up was the 'we trust you' message. That was amplified as well by the fact that no Elder's were traveling with them. Still she was almost an adult now. She could certainly look after herself and the others in the wilderness, although many of them were almost as skilled as she was at that.

"Thank you, Elder Kaelthas" she said politely "I think we should be setting off as soon as possible. Is there anything else that you think we should know before we go?" her eyes were on the pile of loot... especially the gauntlets... but she had enough patience not to ask. At least not just yet.

Her question answered Shanaera looked to her father with an excited look.  Was he going to let his little girl go?  She hoped that he put a word in to have her go for this was living.  As a little one she had heard many tales of quests and battles and she wanted to have her own and now was her chance.

"I want to thank you for entrusting us on this most important mission."  Shanaera looked to the others for strength and she saw it on more than one of their faces.  She was so happy that Aergleel was requested as well, for he would definitely help ensure she was safe.

Aergleel listens in silence with a look of concentration on his brow. All the while holding Shanaera's hand in his. He gripped the pommel of the sword at his hip. He was unused to the feeling of a sword, though he practiced with it much, he didn't usually carry it around.

Casyr will look at the bow to see if it's a longbow and appropriate to his strength.

Casyr will nod in agreement saying "The faster we start the quicker we can determine their fate."

Umrai, umrai, umrai he repeated in his head to memorize the word. Ruven nodded at everyone's suggestion. The had a long journey ahead, the sooner they could leave the better. "That's all the questions can think of. I'm ready to leave as soon as possible."

Shandra steps forward, picking up the fir composite bow, and walks over to Casyr. Presenting it to him, she smiles slightly. "This bow has been in my care for many decades now, a gift from my mentor. It's name is Dawnbeam, and has been used by rangers and divine archers for centuries to combat the forces of evil. I have settled down, never having unlocked its full abilities, but I feel like you may be the one to do so. Wield it well, and defend your friends, it will serve you true." She spoke, looking fondly at the bow before passing it to Casyr.

Anaduil is the next to step forward, picking up the silver elven horn with care and tenderness. His gaze lingers on it before walking over to Ruven, holding it before him. "This horn was your mothers, a tool she used often in her travels. She was a mighty warrior, and skilled with her musical abilities. She left this for you before she passed away, and I have held on to it for these many years, knowing that I would give it to you when you might need it. I am not sure of it's capabilities, but it is a powerful device. My son, I am proud of the young person you have become, and I know that you will do great things in this world, and beyond." The high priest spoke, a tear falling down his cheek.

Kaelthas considers Aergleel for a few moments, before nodding his head. He too steps forward, picking up the large steel shield that vaguely looks like a curled dragon. For a moment, he seems to be listening to something, before he presents it to Aergleel. "When I was young, I found this shield after my companions and I slew a white dragon far to the north of these lands. She is a good shield, and will serve you well. I do not know all of her abilities, but her protections are strong, and she desires to be passed on to do good in the world once more. Her name is Anexortian, and she will defend you from extremes in temperature, the harshest winters and most punishing of summers will seem to you a mild day in spring while you wear her. I have studied you from afar, and know that you are destined to be a great warrior, and every good warrior needs a shield. Good luck lad!" He spoke, passing the shield over to Aergleel.

Taelia walks forward next, picking up the wooden holy symbol, considering it with reflection in her face. She turns to her daughter, looking into her eyes. "When I was a younger, this holy symbol was presented to me by my superior, a wise priestess of Ehlenestra. Although not a normal symbol for the faith, it is still sacred to the goddess of the woodlands. There is, however, a sacrifice to be made. This item is also sacred to Nature itself, and requires its wearer to foreswear most trappings of civilization, especially wealth. But I think you will find that it more than makes up for any magical trinket you might acquire with its gifts. Although I stopped wearing it many years ago, I have long watched as you grew into your own, and know that you will appreciate its many abilities. Use it well, daughter, and be a force for preserving Nature." She spoke, holding it to place it around Amardes' neck.

Xialo next steps forward, picking up the black leather gauntlets. He walks over to Kor, presenting them to his apprentice. "Although we do not always see eye to eye in the matters of the natural world, these gauntlets served me well in my youth, enhancing my magical abilities beyond what I was normally capable of. In many battles against unnatural forces, I was able to overcome them with my strength augmented by them. I think that you will find them to be useful as you go into the world, and hopefully they provide you with the key to finding your own path. Wind to thy wings, pupil." He spoke, handing them over to Kor.

Bareil is the last to step forward, picking up the ebon staff. Holding it in his hands, he concentrated for a moment, causing it to transform into black longsword, before switching it back to a staff. Walking over to Shanaera, he holds it out for her to grasp. "This was your mothers staff, one she loved dearly, before she took to traveling the world. Although I have not heard from her in many years, she always had a talent with shadow magic, which she infused into this staff. It's name is Dusk, and as you can see with concentration its form is mutable to its users will. I do not know all of it's potential, but it has a great destiny for those who practice shadow magic. I think she would want you to have it, especially going out into the world, instead of gathering dust in my library. Be careful, although the staff itself is benign, shadow magic itself can take a toll on ones being. Most of all, my daughter, be safe and live well." He spoke, passing it to Shanaera.

The Elders step back, indicating to the bundles of weapons and armor. "Within, you will find masterwork weapons and armor that you may choose from, with our blessings. Use them well, and discover what has become of our allies. May Corellon Larethian smile upon you as you travel." They spoke, letting you pick over what you like.

OOC:Pretty much any masterwork weapon or armor is within the bundles, Exotic Weapons and Armor's or items made from special materials will not be. Just update your character sheets with your Legacy Item and what items you pull from the bundles. Sorry about the delay.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:48, Fri 29 May 2020.

"You honor me lady" Casyr says bowing upon receiving the bow Dawnbeam "I will endeavor to learn its secrets and unlock it's potential to honor your ancestors and mine."

After receiving his he waits for the others to receive theirs.

When her father stepped forward and grabbed the black looking staff on the ground, Shanaera knew that it had to be hers.  She was beaming with pride as her father concentrated on the staff.  When it physically changed shape, Shanaera couldn't believe it!  She stayed quiet though so as not to show her excitement too much.

When Her father presented the staff to her finally and said that it had belonged to her mother, Shanaera almost broke down.  She missed her mother dearly and now Shanaera had a part of her mother.  Dusk!  That was a nice name for the staff Shanaera thought to herself.  "Thank you father, I will cherish this and learn all that I can about its abilities."

Since Shanaera was the last to receive their gifts she looked to the others as they in turn looked at the item they were given.  They all seemed quite pleased with what they had received.  Then as the Elders said they could look over the bundles and pick what things they needed from them Shanaera waited a moment to let the others to go first.

Aergleel beamed with pride at the dragon shield. A wonderful boon! "Thank you, I will bring honor to the elves and you."

Ruven's eyes widened when his father mentioned his mother. This was her horn? He hardly knew his mother but to finally get something of hers touched him. After he grabbed the horn Ruven closed his eyes and simply held the instrument. He could almost here his mother, soothing whispers coming from the item. When he opened his eyes he smiled, "I will continue to make you and her proud."

After everyone else had received their items Ruven had a chance to look through weapons and armor. A few minutes later he took a few practice swings with the new longsword he had picked up. "With these the caravan is as good as saved!" he declared with a laugh.

Amardes took a look at the amulet. She didn't know what she felt about it, but it certainly wasn't the joy she was seeing the others feeling. She couldn't outright reject it with the others watching, because that would hurt her mother, but her mother probably knew her well enough to realise that this wasn't anything she felt ready for.

Still she had to do something so she put it in pouch without wearing it, and stepped back to let the others enjoy their moment.

Aergleel went to Shanaera in the crowd, beaming he took her hand and showed her the shield and then shared what she had been gifted with. "Looks like we're going on an adventure!" he said to her under his breath.

Shanaera looked at Aergleel's Shield as he presented it to her.  Do you know what your shield does?  My staff as you saw is quite special as it can change its shape to my whims.

When Aergleel mentioned adventure, Shanaera smiled meekly, "Yes, it sure does, doesn't it?  I am happy that you will be with me."

"It's magical and protests me from the elements!"

Without further objection, the elders give you a clearly marked map and wish you a good journey, then they disperse. As you look over the map, you notice that it is not completely detailed, but a vague map of the lands surrounding Gentlebreeze, but the further you get the less detailed the map becomes, until only major mountain ranges, forests, rivers, etc... are marked. A single line in red ink marks a path from your village to presumably the dwarven lands to the north.

OOC: Knowledge (Geography) to anyone with skill ranks in it, remember to roll 2d20 and keep the higher roll.

Just before they set off, Amardes returned the holy symbol to her mother. She could not accept such a poisoned chalice. It had been nice to see that everyone else had liked the items they received, but then again none of them had received items that required such a painful and onerous vow. She had taken a bow, some arrows, a couple of slings and a dagger from the pile of weapons, but eschewed the armor

Knowing very little about the geography outside their local area, she was not able to signficantly help in the route planning other than looking at the map.

During the journey she ranged ahead of the others, returning regularly to report what she had found.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:10, Tue 02 June 2020.

When Aergleel said that the shield protects him that is all she needed to hear.  For if it protected him, then it protected her as well.

As the elders gave a map to one of the others, Shanaera moved in close to look.  She wasn't really good with maps but she could read and see what was there at least.  Shanaera was also very perceptive and could help spot out things.

"Who is able to read the map well enough to follow it?"  Shanaera asked the others as she stepped back from the map.

"Not I, geography was not my forte."

"We shall do well enough I think, the map will help us greatly. Are we ready to venture forth?" Casyr will asks the others.

Shanaera smiled and answered, "I am ready for this mission.  Let us make haste so we can figure out what happened."

Shanaera would grab a masterwork rrapier and as many daggers that the others didn't  want. 
This message was last edited by the player at 06:57, Sun 07 June 2020.

"If you can read the map, I'm ready to go." He squeezed Shanaera's hand and let it loose then.

At the question of reading the map Ruven raised his hand. "I think I'd like to take a stab at it. I've read a few maps in my time at the temple. You'd be surprised how often the stories of Corellon mention real places, although sometimes with different names." Once he was handed the map he looked it over. "Ah yes, we are here. This mountain range should be over there. Okay. I think I have a good understanding of where we need to go."

Assuming everyone else was ready to leave Ruven offered to lead the group.


09:44, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 19 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only ((17,4))

As you look over the map, you think that by traveling north, you should be able to follow the map as a general guideline to the expected path of the caravan. As you set off in the morning, the gentle breeze that is the namesake of your home stops, the air of the forest becoming heavy and a sharp chill begins to fill the air. After a few hours, you reach a stream in which to rest for a brief lunch. As the day progresses, you make progress in your march, eventually reaching the outskirts of your people's territory, a great tree being a common marker between your homeland and the wilds beyond. In the distance, you can barely make out the vague outlines of mountains far, far to the north. This may be the best place for your group to camp, as few creatures of ill intent care to clash with elves in their home territory.

Ruven wiped the sweat from his brow as he looked at the horizon. How long had it been since the bard had spent a full day of hiking? As they came upon a giant tree that served as a marker he thew his pack down and sat against the trunk. "I think this is a good place to camp. What say we call it here for the day?" he said between labored breaths. Ruven drug his pack over to him and scrounged around inside. Weapons? Check. Spell materials? Check. Camping Supplies? He let out a long sigh. "I seem to have forgotten to pack rations or supplies for travelling. A bit short-sighted on my part. Could I ask someone to assist me in foraging? My hunting skills are somewhat subpar" Ruven said with a sheepish grin.

"I have a weeks worth of trail rations, I'm a warrior, not a hunter. I could share, but then I'd only have 5 days." he says with a grin tossing a ration over to Ruven.

"I'll be happy to do some hunting for us." Casyr says.

14:26, Today: Casyr rolled 14 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Survival, Hunting.

So enough for myself and 2 others.

Shanaera couldn't help but give a little giggle when Ruven said that he forgot to pack and rations for the mission.

I too have rations but if there is going to be hunting I wouldn't mind have fresh meat and vegetables if we can find it.  It would mean we could save our rations for when we can't find anything fresh.

"That is true, fresh is better than dried and salted."

Amardes rarely worried about bringing food along. She'd learned from a young age to fend for herself in the forest, and she had magics to resolve any shortage anyway. With her new bow she brought down a brace of rabbits, and while crossing one of the streams she'd 'snap pulled' out of the water a couple of trout. Mixed with some of the roots and shoots she suspected the evening meal might be pleasant

She'd brought enough for everyone, but it was nice to see others suplementing the pot.

As she prepared the food testing out the new dagger that the Elders had provided her with, she chatted a little with the others "Any of you have any thoughts on what the problem with Dwarves might be?"


OOC Survival 18, so enough for her and 4 others, which I think is everyone.

Kor had remained silent for quite some time, absorbed in thought about the gloves his mentor had given him. They would truly be a boon when it came to his spells, but it bothered him that Amardes had rejected her mother's gift. As they reached the edge of the elves territory, Kor looked around, getting a sense for the weather to come. "It seems that the night may be cool, friends. Perhaps the shelter of the great tree would be best. I thought that we might need some extra supplies, so I have brought extra food in my travel bags. I also have a collapsible covering that should cover us from rain from above if we make a camp, though it will do little to aid against the chill." He spoke, reaching around to go through the bags that he wore that were similar to saddle bags, but he would never call them that. He had grabbed a composite longbow and spear from the weapons that had been provided, replacing his own with the superior crafted ones provided.

When Amardes brought up the question about thoughts on the dwarves, Shanaera thought about it for a moment.  It was a mystery for she remembered when they came last year.  Whatever it was that has delayed them must have been something big.  Pulling out one of her new daggers and examining the craftsmanship while she thought, was a normal thing for her.  "Perhaps it wasn't an enemy and instead it was mother nature?  Maybe the world opened up and blocked their way or some other thing?  For if it were an enemy it would have had to be something significant.  Do you remember last year when the dwarves came?  They were battle hardy dwarves and quite a few of them too."

"I have a cook pot and a cookbook packed on my mule. as well as fishing gear."
This message was last edited by the player at 11:51, Sun 07 June 2020.

Amardes rarely bothered with cooking implements. She found skewering things with sticks and placing them over the fire worked well... if she was in the mood for cooking which often she wasn't. Still they could be used to do things you otherwise couldn't do... like making some sort of stew, which could be pleasantly different.

As they communally worked on their evening meal with Aergleel's pots, and the various foodstuffs from the others, she commented to Shanaera "Our thoughts are the same. I think though, that if there had been some natural cataclysm we would have heard of it. Which leads me to worry more about a monster of some kind, or raiders from another place. And as you say the Dwarves looked to be very combat capable. They might of course have just retreated or detoured or taken another route... but I feel it would be prudent to be on a high level of alertness. Even here in this place of our power... I feel the need for a more alert watch than I would usually attempt"

The idea of the tree appealed to her, which she indicated to Kor with a nod, but she was just as interested to see what the others thought
This message was last edited by the player at 04:36, Mon 08 June 2020.

"Dwarves usually pride themselves on being orderly. There absence means something did befall them. Without word from them or more information it could be almost anything. They may have broken a wagon wheel and stopped to repair it. They could have been attacked. It's hard to say at this point." Casyr adds to the conversation.

"Thank you for the offer Aergleel. Fortunately we can save this ration for a rainier day" Ruven said as he handed the ration back to the warrior. He pondered the question Amardes had asked. "If we are lucky Shanaera is right and it is just nature holding them up. If they live in the mountains a pass being buried in a rock slide might easily extend a trip several weeks. Until that is proven I agree with Amardes, we should be cautious. Having us stand watch at night might not be a bad idea. Personally I don't do it often so I volunteer to take first watch tonight, if for no other reason than to get used to it. "

When talk started about watches, Shanaera asked, "can I have the last watch, please?  That way I can do some studying before we get up instead of after we all get up which would delay us further."

In reply to Shanaera Sinsaulii (msg # 72):

"I'll take last watch too if I can, so she can concentrate on what she does while someone watches."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:00, Tue 09 June 2020.

Let's overlap the watches, so no one is too tired." Amardes suggested, scratching a picture in the dirt to explain her idea "So every two hours someone else comes on watch, each person has four hours on. At anyone time there are two people on watch, but someone is more awake than the second person. I'll take the second half of the first watch and the first half of the second watch"


OOC Picture

+--Ruven----+----Kor----+--Shaneera---+
       +--Amardes-+--Aergleel--+
        Midnight              Dawn

This message was lightly edited by the player at 06:00, Wed 10 June 2020.

"I'll happily take a watch, let me know what watch you wish me to do" Casyr says

Amardes looked a little embarressed when she realised she'd left Casyr off her picture and quickly added him with two, two hour watches

OOC Picture


+--Ruven----+----Kor----+--Shaneera---+
 Casyr--+--Amardes-+--Aergleel--+Casyr
        Midnight              Dawn

Listening to the watch plan, Shanaera thought it was sound and would allow her to get her studies in so they didn't have to waste time in the morning.  "Thank you Amardes, it is a solid plan to keep us safe."

"Sounds good to me" Casyr says as he looks about for a good spot to keep watch the first couple of hours.

With the watch schedule set up, your group makes a camp for the coming evening. The great tree provides coverage from much of the night sky, but the cold wind begins to pick up over the night, causing a chill over the camp. In the morning, ice has covered where dew would form, and your fire is one of the few points of warmth until the sun begins to rise. Besides the unusual chill coming down from the North, nothing befalls your group as they camp the night. Since most of you have lived in these lands for your entire lives, you know that this is not a natural weather pattern. Some ill wind is blowing from the North, and perhaps this is what befell the dwarves.

Kor takes off his large blanket he had worn through the night, doubly glad for the warm campfire as well. "By Obad-Hai's green beard, this cold wind will be a flash frost to the forest if it continues much longer. It may take seasons to repair this damage. I wonder what is causing it? I know of few creatures besides certain dragons or powerful elementals that could be causing it." He spoke, preparing some trail rations into a pot of porridge in the morning. The honey, dried fruits, and nuts would help to make it more palpable. He had been learning to cook from many different members of the community, but he liked to think that he had some natural talent in these regards.

OOC: 22:22, Today: Kor rolled 22 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only.  Profession (Cook). I made something Edible! And probably tastes good too! Woot!

As Shanaera had studied and watched over the others and the fire, Kor rose a tad earlier than she thought he would.  Shanaera said hello as the centaur had begun to stir and then started to cook the morning meal it seemed.

Shanaera left him to his work but could smell the food a little bit later as it began to cook and wafted into her nostrils.  "It is starting to smell wonderful Kor.  Where did you learn all that from?"

In reply to Shanaera Sinsaulii (msg # 81):

"Good thing I brought the pot!" Asgleel said to her and Kor with a smile on his face.

"I think we can cross 'natural causes' of the list of things that might have impacted the dwarfs" she mused in a worried voice. "Well I think I am going to circle the area now while the rest of you get ready. If you can keep some of that for me Kor, I'd appreciate it."

With that she moved into the undergrowth and when out of sight of the others dropped to all fours changing. In this form she could move much faster, and felt a lot safer.


OOC I'll do tracking in the area we are in and general scouting for the hour or so that the others are doing stuff.

Survival 29 (critical)
Spot 28

A shiver ran through Ruven as he slowly opened his eyes. He squinted as he looked out over the landscape, was that ice? "It seems nature forgot the fact that we already celebrated the Festival of Blossoms" he commented as he drug himself onto his feet. The bard looked around the camp to find everyone had already started to move. The smell of cooked food lifted his spirits. "Kor my friend you have saved the morning." Ruven looked towards the distant mountains that they would soon head towards. "If this weather keeps this up we will have to be on the lookout for shelter going forward. I do not want to be caught in a freak snow storm in the middle of the night."

Kor shrugged at Shanaera's question, gesturing around to the others. "No few of the other villagers helped to teach me various things that I suppose others of my tribe would have taught me. Believe it or not, Xialo is not a bad cook himself, but the Greenweavers were kind enough to spend time with me and teach me not to burn water...most of the time." Kor spoke, winking slightly. He added a pinch of salt, and stirred it up before serving it out. "Thank you, Aergleel. It has proven useful. I hope we can clean it using some water and boil it after we are done." The centaur spoke, looking at Ruven. "Perhaps we should find better camping area's after this night, I suspect that we were slightly protected by this great tree today, but beyond the elven lands they might be more rare." He spoke, contemplating the possibility of winter camping, and realizing that perhaps what he packed wouldn't be optimal for this situation.

Casyr was certain this was not a natural cold wind. Someone had influenced it. Who he was not sure but it could explain the dwarves not arriving as expected. He looked about the company and they did not appear well equipped for the winter. Even himself.

He  rose though and moved about to get himself going. "Those of you able should implore upon your gods to grant unto you the ability to endure these conditions unnatural as they are. We must press further into the mountains to check on the dwarves which might bring weather we are ill equipped to deal with save for grace of the gods," he says.

Aergleel got out his cloak and put it on, you never know how cold the mountains might be.

Kor's meal he prepared is warm and filling, and the taste is unusually good. It might have been the cold air, but it hits the spot. For those who need time to prepare their spells or pray to the divine, there is time before Amardes returns from her scouting mission. Amardes is able to collect some wild berries and even some acorns while finding little but old boar game tracks, perhaps two or three days old, heading in the direction your group had come. You are able to pack up your campsite quickly, and begin your journey north within an hour. The air is still quite cool, but the meal you ate seems to be giving you some extra energy to help deal with it.

About noon, the sun begins to offset the chill, as you enter a clearing, you notice five large trees arranged around the center, unusual in such an open space. Their branches seem to sway though there is no wind, creaking and groaning.

OOC: Knowledge Nature, Spot, and Listen checks please.
Everyone has +2 on Fortitude saves vs Cold at the moment.

Shanaera had wrapped herself as best she could in the furs she had.  As the traveled she could barely feel her toes though.  It wasn't until they made the clearing around midday before she could feel them again.

When she peered into the clearing and saw the strange arrangement of the five trees she asked the others, "Now that is strange, have any of you seen anything like that before?"

19:45, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 12,23 using d20+8,d20+8.  spot check.

19:45, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 14,14 using d20+11,d20+11.  listen check.

19:44, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 13,17 using d20+4,d20+4.  fort save pick the better.

In reply to Shanaera Sinsaulii (msg # 89):

14:04, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 17 using 1d20+6.  fort save.

14:04, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  listen.

14:04, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  spot.

Amardes had little to contribute on the matter of the tree. They looked a little unusual to her, but nothing more. She gave a little shake of her head to Shanaera. "I'll have a little cut for tracks around the glade. See what kind of wildlife is around here" she murmured then moved into the undergrowth to change to her other form before circled the clearing

Know nature 13
Spot 22
Listen 16
Survival (tracking) 26

After the meal Ruven and the other resumed their trek. As the hours ticked by the bard tried to keep himself busy to help ignore the cold. Occasionally he checked the map to ensure they had remained on course. He also took the opportunity to practice with his new horn, he played a few notes while he tried to remember any relevant song.

When the group found the strange trees Ruven cocked an eyebrow. "Maybe the cause of this weather is also effecting the forest itself? Regardless, be careful Amardes. Call out if you run into trouble."

18:44, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 19 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 8,12.  Listen.

18:44, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 11 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 3,4.  Spot.

18:43, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 22 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 20,8.  Knowledge (Nature).

With a sound like thunder, a crack in the earth erupts near Amardes as she shifts into her other form, a massive branch from one of the tree's slams into the ground. "Defilers! How dare you attack nature!" Something from the grove bellows in angry Common. The branch slowly begins to retract towards one of the closer trees, which incredibly begins to move, turning around to 'face' the party. You can barely make out the yellow brown eyes staring at you with disdain, what could only as a frown across its 'face'. Now that you have seen the closer creatures face, you can make out the 'faces' of the others, who do not appear to be too sure about the actions of the hostile creature.

OOC: Unless anyone can think of a way to persuade the creatures otherwise, initiatives.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:46, Mon 15 June 2020.

"Please wait! We mean you or your home no harm! We are travelers from Gentlebreeze. We merely seek passage through your home, we have no desire to defile it!" Ruven shouted at the now revealed tree creatures, his arms were raised to show he had no weapon. He repeated his message in Sylvan, the language of forest creatures, in case some did not understand common. He whispered to his compatriots "These are treants. They are protectors, if they don't feel threatened they should leave us alone."


11:25, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Initiative if Diplomacy fails.

11:23, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 27 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Diplomacy.

Amardes had no idea why the Treants had marked her as a 'defiler of the forest'. She was an Elven Druid who had just shapeshifted and it was hard to imagine someone less a defiler of the forest. Still her problem wasn't 'how do I explain you are wrong' to the angry treant, it was 'how do I stay alive'.

She was about to flee when she heard Ruven's voice call out. Perhaps that would be enough.... still she was ready to flee if necessary. If the treant looked to be about to attack her she would be gone. And keep on going: she was going to try and fight multiple Treants. Or even one Treant.

Initiative: 18 (after Ruven so I have factored his actions into mine)
Held action: Tumble away if the treant attacks
Tumble: 25: that will move me 25' away

This message was last edited by the player at 07:50, Tue 16 June 2020.

Shanaera didn't make any sudden moves.  She was ill-equipped to handle such a situation as this.

Initiative 22

Casyr addresses the Treant "Forgive us our intrusion we did not realize this was your grove. We are seeking out a caravan that disappeared along this road and is overdue. Have you seen any dwarves?"

13:24, Today: Casyr rolled 19 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Initiative (forgot to roll 2).

13:23, Today: Casyr rolled 27 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Diplomacy.

Between Casyr's and Ruven's responses, the other treants grab hold of the aggressive one's branches, holding it back from striking at Amardes again. A great argument is obviously being held in the creatures language, creaking and groaning as if a forest was going to fall. The four others apparently get the upper hand, and the angry treant stomps off into the forest, the remaining treants shaking their foilage. One of the treants walks slowly towards your group, hands down.

"I am sorry, little ones. Elder Roanoak has become incensed at this unnatural weather, which has caused such a disturbance in the natural cycle. I am Everroot, youngest of my moot. How can I earn your forgiveness for the hasty actions of our Elder?" The treant asked, its face becoming more apparent as it speaks to you. One of the other treants goes to follow Elder Roanoak, while the other two watch your groups interaction with apparent interest, as if judging you by some arcane rules.

Amardes had been so close to legging it. It was only the actions of the others that had kept her from running into the next county! A held breath was released. She could feel the adrenaline still coursing through her, and knew she'd pay a price for that later.

There was a blur of reality. A moment where it was almost impossible to look at her because the brain refused to process what it was seeing, and then she was back in her Elven form. Bare foot and dressed in simple clothes. Her concession to the needs of the mission being the bow and arrows she carried

"We surprised him. It wasn't a fault of his" Amardes lied. She wasn't very good at it, but she knew you were supposed to lie at a time like this. She'd never really understood why, but it was one of those social mores that she remembered by rote. "But.. Elder Roanoak obviously has reasons for reacting so badly towards us" she really wasn't very good at this lying and that just slipped out. The truth was so much easier "perhaps we can help each other. We are here to find why some people have gone missing. Like yourselves we can feel the ill wind from the North. We have come from" she gestured back along the trail "And even a few hours in that direction there is no badness, no ill wind, so we have not yet had a chance to investigate. Could you perhaps explain what has happened to so upset Elder Roanoal"

"It has been a cold morning for sure. I had detected it as well. I do not suppose you know the cause of this unnatural cold spell?" Casyr asks hoping to find out more information about this unnatural weather as it could have something to do with the missing dwarves.

Aergleel gives his cloak to Shanaera and dons his shield to overcome the cold.

Ruven let out a sigh of relief. He stepped toward the young treant and gave a slight bow. "Greetings Everroot, my name is Ruven Reykalyn", he paused before he introduced the rest of his compatriots. "As my friends have said we seek any information you might be able to provide. Have their been any other odd disturbances like this recent cold front lately? Has anyone passed by this area recently?"

Shanaera accepted the cloak from Aergleel and wrapped herself from the cold biting wind that was getting to her.  This weather was not a good omen.  As Shanaera listened to the treant speak, she just stared at it.  The thing was weird looking but very cool for sure.  She had heard many stories and read many things about them, but seeing them in person was a whole another level.

When the one took off and this Everroot came to speak to them, Shanaera gave a warm welcome in between comments by the both of them, "Hello Everroot.  It is amazing to meet one of your kind."

Everroot looked over Amardes for a moment, watching her transform. Either a creak in its branches or a chuckle occurred, because the next line it spoke was full of humor. "A deceiver you are not, but welcome to our circle, I am sure you would be, little sister of nature. Roanoak carries scars upon his trunk from his early days, when a band of humans tried to clear him from his home to expand their territory. Since that time, he has not truly forgotten the lesson that the little people can be dangerous, but I think he assumed you to be similar to they. That direction in which you speak is the lands of the Elves held by Gentlebreeze, if my memory serves me correctly." The treant spoke, listening to the others. "I can see that you are elves, and few elves have ever broke the pact between their people and nature. Rest assured, we wish you no harm. And young centaur, be not shy. We have known of your kind in the forests as long as we have known the elves. To be clear, this weather is not natural, and is traveling rapidly from the north. If you people you seek are lost in it, you should find them quickly. As for what is causing it, we have our suspicions, but cannot say for sure if it is mortal or not in origin. It could be a mad wizard, or an elemental being, or even a creature of natural origins spreading's its domain. Rest assured, should you travel north, you will more than likely encounter the progenerator of this weather. If I may, allow me to gift you with something to help you along the way." It spoke, curling one of its tree trunks into a fist. Concentrating, a soft green glow emerges from the cracks in the bark, and as it unrolls his fist, a simple acorn lay upon its hand. Immediately, you feel the chill fading from the air, though only each of you feel it. The ice on the leaves in shade still remains, melting little until the sunlight hits it.

"Ah, there we go. Take this acorn with you, and it will create an area where you will not feel the adverse affects of the cold. This is a temporary magic, and will live only a few days. Once it is depleted, I ask you to plant this acorn in a place where it can grow strong." The treant spoke, handing it off to you. As it stands it's full height, the other treants beacon to it to return, as they slowly begin to amble away from the clearing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:07, Fri 26 June 2020.

Amardes suspected 'a deceiver you are not' was high praise indeed from a Treant. It was prehaps an indication of how she thought and behaved that she couldn't work out why the Treant would call her that, but she accepted the title with happiness. The Treant's other words matched her understanding of the world as well: there were obviously bad people in every place, but most Elves and Centaurs were what she would call 'good people'.

She took the Acorn carefully and with respect. It was a great gift. And of course she would plant it afterwards: something she indicated with body language as Everroot explained what had to be done. Such magics often were a deal, and she would be able to help the tree even as it helped them

Amardes looked at the others and indicated North with her head "I feel our mission is leading us this way. It seems likely that the event of this coldness, and the event of our missing visitors is linked."

AS Everrott handed Amardes the acorn Shanaera felt immediately a bit warmer.  As Everroot explained what it could do Shanaera said her thanks to the Treant.

After Everroot left and Amardes spoke, Shanaera was already nodding.  "Agreed, I think this as well.  We should hurry before this gets much worse than it already is."

Aergleel takes Shan's hand in his and start to travel north again with the others.

Ruven gave another small bow at Everoot's gesture of kindness. "Thank you protector for this gift. We promise to honor your wishes for it." He looked at the acorn and felt the warmth of the magic inside. His limbs that had become stiff with the cold had become relaxed. He watched with a small amount of sadness as the treants, including Roanoak, wandered off into the forest. "Regardless of whether it's connected we should see if we can stop this weather. If it is causing treants discomfort who knows how much of the forest it will damage." When the treants were no longer visible Ruven turned and jogged to catch up with the rest of the party.

After a long day's travel in the cold, it was time to set up camp for the evening and build a warming fire to put off the cold from the unseasonable weather.

Argleel set up his bedroll next to Shanaera with their feet toward the fire. got out his cookpot if there was anything to put in it, or iron rations if there was not.

"Thank you for this boon great one, we highly appreciate it." Casyr says. Casyr watches as the Treant rejoins his fellows and is thankful that the encounter ended better than it started.

He then started moving again towards where the dwarves should be along the route, being mindful to stay with the others while helping to check flanks and the like.

As you settle into camp for the night, the cold wind doesn't affect you like the previous night. The acorn apparently is still working. As the sun sets and the moon rises, you hear a howl in the air, quite a distance away. It is soon answered by another, and then another. As the night progresses, you begin to see signs that the night air is getting colder, frost forming on the surface of trees and rocks.

OOC: With your watches set up, in your middle watch, everybody hears the cracking of a bush fifty feet to your north. Some stupendous rolls. Everybody is not surprised, but whatever is out there is hiding well enough to avoid your elven eyes. Roll Initiatives and post your first round actions.

Amardes could just make out something in the gloom. In her animalistic form things were a little clearer, but even so it was difficult to make out.

 Not moving was the best form of stealth, especially in this darkness. If the creature attacked she would retaliate, but otherwise she would just wait and see.

OOC
Initiative 8

In the event that something attacks:
Held Action in case we are physically attacked and I can counter:
Attack 24  Damage 11
Made a mistake in die roller... but hide is 23 (d20+7)


This message was last edited by the player at 16:58, Mon 13 July 2020.

08:22, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  initiative.

08:24, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  to hit.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:24, Sun 12 July 2020.

Casyr was awakened by the rustling noise and quickly grabbed up Dawnbeam readying to shoot if necessary whatever emerged from the forests undergrowth.


Ready to shoot anything coming from the rustling that enters point blank range and is not dwarf, elf, human, halfling, gnome, half elf, or half orc.

09:15, Today: Casyr rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.
09:16, Today: Casyr rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  Dawnbeam Point Blank Shot to Hit.
09:16, Today: Casyr rolled 5 using 1d8+4.  Dawnbeam Damage.

Ruven's eyes opened when he heard the rustling. The bard considered ignoring the noise until he noticed the others were awake. He pulled himself up and moved towards Amardes. He chanted a few words and placed a glowing hand on her back. "Just in case whatever is out there isn't as friendly as the treants" he whispered.

OOC: 08:23, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 20 using 1d20+7.  Initiative.
Ruven casts the 1st level spell "Shield of Faith" on Amardes. +2 deflection bonus to AC

Shanaera had been lightly sleeping when she heard something and got up.  She saw that everyone else must have heard it as well for everyone was up as well.  As the others moved to action, Shanaera decided to fade into the shadows to prepare a spell if needed.

Initiative 6
18:31, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 27 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only.  move silently.

18:31, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 22 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only.  hide.

Snarls rip the air from where you heard the noise, and in the pale light of the night sky and campfire, you make out five lupine forms slowly advancing on your campsite. They are all some type of wolves, obviously, but their coloration is a very pale grey, almost white. The main one appears to be an alpha wolf, slightly larger than the others, who snips and snarls at the others, causing them to begin to spread out around the camp, outside the range the bright light of the campfire, but within easy charging distance. The air is growing noticeably chillier at their approach, faint wisps of fog emanating from their coats.

OOC: So far, five white wolves that are surrounding you, not moving within range yet but obviously trying to intimidate/flank you. The air is growing colder in their presence, but the acorn is protecting you from the chill. Knowledge Arcana checks if you want to figure out what these things are, but you have a round to do your actions.

Amardes turned back to her normal form and invoked the power of nature to help fight these unnatural creatures. "Thanks" she whispered to Ruven, her surprise and pleasure at the gesture obvious.

She was pretty sure that the increasing cold in their presence was a dead giveaway that these were 'bad things'. As she gestured and prayed, invoking the Earthpower, the undergrowth, the roots, the shrubs and grass... all moved as though with an invisible hand growing towards the wolves, trying to grab them and hold them still

Not desiring to take a risk that their cold was going to get more intense, she retreated placing a tree between her and any possible charges from the beasts.



Swift action: Change to Elf
Standard action: Cast entangle on the (winter?) wolves. Saving throw is 14.
Move action: Retreat

Knowledge Nature 24
11:40, Today: Amardes Leithianeth rolled 17 using 2d20, dropping the lowest dice only.  Knowledge nature.

07:41, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 18 using 1d20+6.  knowledge arcana. Winter Wolf.

The wolf snarls and the increased chill in the air removed any doubt for Ruven that a confrontation with the beasts could be avoided. Before he was surrounded the bard retreated and drew his bow. He softly had begun to sing a ballad, a tale of Corellon and a fierce battle in the moonlight.

Move Action: Move away from the wolves
Free Action while moving: Draw Longbow
Standard Action: Start Bardic Music (Inspire Courage). Everyone gets +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 morale bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.

12:38, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 23 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Knowledge Arcana.

"It isn't Winter Wolves, though I know not what they are."

As the wolves closed in, Shanaera could feel the cold coming from them.  If it weren't for the acorn they were given, she might have been frozen to death, she didn't know.  Since it seemed like they were going to be fighting, Shanaera cast her mage armor spell to protect her a bit better.

Cast Mage armor
15:28, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 20 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only.  Arcana.

Nature itself seems to come to your aid, with weeds and vines thrusting out of the ground to try and entangle the white wolves. Either they are lucky or the chill they emanate is causing issues with the foliage, for only one of the wolves become entangled. It does create a difficult terrain between three of the wolves and your party, one which drops to the ground as the vines hold strong. The others rush forward, nearing your location despite the overgrowth. As they get within 30 ft, Casyr's arrow flies true, piercing one of the wolves that went to the side of the party. With a yelp, it seems to stop before grabbing the arrow and pulling it out with its muzzle. It pulls back it's head and howls, a wave of cold air passing over your party, causing the campfire flame to flicker and almost die. Everyone Fortitude save DC 13 vs Cold Damage, 4 if you fail, 2 if you succeed. The other unhampered wolf rushes in, attempting to bowl over Aergleel in a charge to remove a foe. It fails to get a hold on the elven warrior. One of the other wolves moves forward through the terrain, throws back its head and howls like the other one did, a wave of cold air passing over your party, extinguishing the fire and causing frost to form over the ground. Everyone Fortitude save DC 13 vs Cold Damage, 3 if you fail, 1 if you succeed. The alpha wolf appears to be made of sterner stuff than the others, its paws finding little problem with the difficult terrain. It is able to charge fully to fight the closest elf available, targeting Aergleel. It too, does not succeed in hitting their armored foe.

OOC: New round, make your saves for the two frost howls. Aergleel has one white wolf and the alpha on him in melee, and another twenty feet away, Casyr has the injured white wolf within 10 feet, and the last one is entangled forty feet away.

Shanaera tried to remain in the shadows but with the wolves closing in, their ability to sniff her out she believed it was wiser to eliminate them before they could harm her or her friends.  When one of the wolves tried to get Aergleel and then the Alpha did next, Shanaera positioned herself to hit at least the two wolves with her spell.  As she moved she was hit by the cold air from the wolves breaths almost freezing her to the core.  Shaking it off as best as she could she continued to cast her spell.


10:53, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 10 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  fort save. failed
10:53, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 17 using 2d20+2, dropping the lowest dice only.  fort save. Made
Cast Color spray on the two wolves attacking Aergleel Will save DC16.  I don't know their HD so you will have to roll the effect.
https://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/colorSpray.htm

09:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  damage.

09:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  to hit.

09:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 9 using 1d20+4.  fort save. Failed

09:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 22 using 1d20+4.  fort save.

5 points of damage. Shield didn't protect me. Alpha got hit for 10 points!

Ruven shielded his face from the cold blasts of air that emanated from the magical creatures. The bard ignored the chill that washed over him as he examined the situation. He ended his song, aimed with his bow and fired at the injured wolf close to Casyr.

10:35, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 20 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Fortitude Save, Howl 1. Cold damage negated by Ruven's resistance.
10:35, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 23 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Fortitude Save, Howl 2. Cold damage negated by Ruven's resistance.


Free Action: Stop singing Inspire Courage. Effect lingers for 5 more rounds.
Standard Action: Fire longbow at wolf.
10:38, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 25 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Longbow Attack.
10:41, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 18 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Confirm Critical.
10:42, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 2 using 1d8+1.  Longbow Damage. 6 Damage if Critical is confirmed

Pleased that the entangle had at least reduced the number of foes they had to fight, even if only for a moment, Amardes turned into her animalistic form and charged. There were two on Aergleel, so she would help him first. The alpha was easily the most dangerous so she moved to engage him.

Swift action Turn to animal form
Move Action: Move
Standard Action: Bite. but a miss (10 on the die)

Made one save, failed the other. 5 damage
15:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 9 using 1d20+4.  fort save.
15:21, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 22 using 1d20+4.  fort save.

(DId my ready action not go off before this?)

Shanaera's spell floods over the two white wolves on Aergleel, knocking out one of the lesser wolves, and stunning the alpha. Ruven's arrow striked the injured white wolf true closest to Casyr, embedding into one of it's eye sockets, felling the wolf. Casyr knocks another arrow, and takes aim one of the free wolves not in melee combat. The arrow hits the wolf in the shoulder, causing it to falter for a moment. Amardes shifts back to her animal form, rushing forward to attack the alpha wolf, unfortunately missing in her rush to engage with her ally.

The furthest wolf is still entangled by Amardes' spell, the vines tightly holding the creature down. The white wolf struck by Casyr's arrow rushes forward to engage Amardes, coming to the pack leaders aid. The wolf just barely misses the young druidess, snapping at the air just barely within range.

New round.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:10, Tue 28 July 2020.

In different circumstances Ruven would have cheered at his bullseye, or wolveseye in this case. Instead the bard quickly drew another arrow and scanned for targets. He grimaced as most of the wolves were tangled with his allies. He moved forward and fired at the entangled beast in the back.

Inspire Courage effect lingers for 4 more rounds.
Move Action: Move 10 ft forward.
Standard Action: Fire longbow at only remaining wolf not in melee combat.
21:34, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 8 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Longbow Attack.
21:36, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 5 using 1d8+1.  Longbow Damage.

Shanaera had immobilized two of the strange wolves which was good and her companions were taking care of the others.  Deciding that she couldn't really make much more difference in the fight Shanaera moved up close to Aergleel to aid him somehow against the Alpha wolf.

Shanaera will use the aid other action to help Aergleel.

Aergleel swings at the Alpha wolf again and sinks his blade deep!


09:04, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  damage.

09:04, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  to hit.

Having narrowly missed being horribly chewed, Amardes felt a surge of gratitude towards Ruven. She was sure that it was only due to his magics that she was not horribly injured. With a flurry of blows she ripped into the Alpha wolf: he was the biggest threat she felt, and he was already a little hurt. If she took him down, perhaps the others would flee.

Her training was starting to show, and she took a 5 foot step to make sure she flanked the Alpha
This message was last edited by the player at 19:12, Tue 28 July 2020.

Casyr takes aim at the wolf not currently in melee (unless it's dead by his turn then a wolf in melee).



07:41, Today: Casyr rolled 16 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Attack Wolf not in melee.
07:43, Today: Casyr rolled 11 using 2d8+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  damage.

Ruven's arrow misses the prone wolf, sinking into the writhing vegetation holding it down. Shanaera moves forward to help Aergleel deal with the alpha wolf, using her shadow blade to maneuver the wolf into a better position for Aergleel to strike. And strike he did, just as the alpha is about to come out of the stunning it received from Shanaera's color spray, Amardes unleashes a flurry of fits strikes and a vicious bite from her anthromorphic form, downing the alpha wolf. Leaving one white wolf to engage in melee with Aergleel, Amardes, and Shanaera, one unconscious white wolf on the ground between them, and an entangled white wolf some distance away. Casyr's bow sings as an arrow flies to strike the entangled white wolf, cutting short its life and it ceases to struggle against the living vegetation. The wolf in melee attempts to snap at Amardes again, but fails to gain a hold on the wild monk.

New Round, one white wolf unconscious, one still snapping at you guys.

09:27, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 7 using 1d8+3.  damage.

09:27, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  to hit. missed.

Ruven grimaced when his arrow sunk into the vegetation. He had been about to knock another arrow when Casyr ended the wolf. He saw only one wolf standing so he dropped his bow and rushed towards it. He drew his sword and attempted to slash at the creature.

Free Action: Drop Longbow
Move Action: Move to flank the conscious wolf.
Free Action: Draw Longsword while moving
Standard Action: Attack wolf with longsword.
08:40, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 24 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Longsword Attack with Flanking.
08:40, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 7 using 1d8+2.  Longsword Damage.


Current Active Buffs
Inspire Courage effect lingers for 3 more rounds.
Shield of Faith(Amardes) lingers for 6 more rounds.

Casyr nocks an arrow but does not fire, not wishing to hit his allies with an arrow, but if the wolf makes a charge at him he'll fire at it.

Moving just a little to flank the wolf that was still snapping at them, Amardes unleashed another flurry of misses before managing to bite it for a small wound


OOC
Flurry of misses
Bite: Hits AC 19 for 5 damage

And thank you for the buffs Ruven! They are awesome

This message was last edited by the player at 12:59, Fri 31 July 2020.

Shanaera moves closer to Amardes to aid her in defending any further attacks from the winter wolf.

Between the combined onslaught of Aergleel, Amardes, and Ruven, the final, awake, white wolf dies. The clearing is now calm, except for the heavy breathing of the elven warriors, and the snorts of the slumbering remaining white wolf which may soon awaken. The air begins to warm slightly, though those closest to the slumbering wolf still feel and see the chill emanating from it. As the party turns to deal with it, you notice that Kor is gone, a deep, churned up depression in the ground where he had been sleeping the only evidence that the young centaur had been with the group.

OOC: You have one white wolf who may or may not be awakening soon, and knowledge checks to determine what may have happened to Kor.

Aergleel goes and kills the wolf while the others investigate.

Ruven let out a deep breath once the fight was over. "Is anyone seriously hurt? I can heal those who need it" he offered as he returned to pick up his bow. Once his weapon was secured he moved to a wolf corpse and prodded it with his sword. "Whatever these wolves were it's possible they weren't natural winter wolves. Maybe an experiment? Their size was wrong and their tactics seemed off. Maybe they were a distraction?" Ruven looked around and noticed their centaur friend was missing. "Does anyone see Kor or tracks that show where he went?"

Glad the buff helped Amardes!
If anyone has taken 5+ damage let me know and I'll use a healing spell.

16:33, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 19 using 2d20+3, dropping the lowest dice only.  Knowledge Arcana.

Shanaera was breathing hard from the battle and also the now diminishing cold as the last of the wolves were put down by Aergleel.  She had the same conclusion as Ruven about these particular winter wolves.  There was something off about them for sure.  Then as he turned and saw that Kor was missing, Shanaera turned as well to see the same.  She didn't really know the centaur all that well but if something took him then they should try to find out what happened to him.

"I agree with your assessment about these wolves, Ruven.  Something was, off.  As to where Kor went, I was too caught up in the battle to notice."  Shanaera moved over to the depression in the ground that showed where he had slept and looked around.

I don't have tracking but thought I would look anyway.
07:45, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 28 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only.  spot check.

Shanaera pointed out to the others that there is no way the centaur had walked away.  "Either something huge came down and took him, or the ground opened up and something took him.  Either way, I don't like either option.  With this depression, to me, the latter case happened.  Since there isn't a hole we can't make chase either."

"With the battle going on, I didn't hear anything either."

Amardes changed back to being Elven again. She was white faced and looked on the edge of being ill. Things had just tried to kill her. Dangerous unnatural things. She'd never before seen or met anything so horrible, so inimical to life. And this wasn't just 'seeing' something horrible, it was 'fighting for life' against them.

She wanted nothing more than to lean against a tree while her stomach stopped churning and her kidneys stopped aching from the adrenaline. But she couldn't: something had happened to Kor. She liked the centaur: he was one of the few that could sometimes keep up with her, and he seemed to care about important things much more than most Elves she knew

Her body language concured with the comments the other were making. A little nod of agreement before she moved over to where Kor had been, and looked for any clues, any tracks or anything. She didn't expect to see anything, but you could never tell

tracking (survival) 22
Knowledge nature 24

"This... is a little strange" Amardes said after examining the ground "No make that a lot strange. Our friend Kor was dragged underground... and see" she gestured to the North "The plant life and the ground are disturbed as though something massive displaced the plant life just under the surface"

She looked hopeful as she continued "I see no sign of injury. No marks that I would expect if whatever it was killed him. Perhaps he is still intact"

Ruven joined the others and examined the depression in the ground. How could a centaur have been moved through the ground and not leave a hole? Perhaps it was magic. The bard chanted a few words and his eyes briefly glowed. He examined the area to see if the magic lingered in the ground Kor was taken, perhaps that could help track where he had been taken.

He perked up when Amardes claimed she could see the displacement. "Do you think you can track it? He had to have been taken recently, we should pursue! We might be able to catch up whoever or whatever did this!" Ruven did not wait for an answer before he started to collect his supplies and prepared to set out.


OOC: Ruven casts "Detect Magic" and checks for a trail. The spell can see auras up to several feet into dirt.

Aergleel gathers his gear and readies to follow as well. He takes Shanaera by the hand with worry in his eyes, then readies for the trail they follow.

"As long as it stays close to the surface I can track it" Amardes said after a short while of checking "If it goes deep... then not so much. It feels to me that we should try"

She changed back to her animalistic form and began to follow the disturbance in the ground

As the group gathers around the displaced earth where their companion once lay, the wolves bodies begin to shrivel. A blue light emanates from each, wolves body, growing bright as the physical forms of each wolf disintegrates, leaving behind a single blue quartz, about the size of a cherry, that radiates cold. The alpha's body leaves behind a piece of quartz about the size of a plum. The light of the moon and stars is bright enough to provide your elven eyes the ability to travel and track, if that is what you decide.

OOC: Survival checks from Amardes to track, and let me know what you are doing with the gems left behind by the wolves.

Aergleel picks up the gems and drops them in his pouch for later study.

OOC A 20 on the survival roll

As you begin to collect the stones, they begin to die in glow and the amount of energy they radiate. You feel that the acorn is protecting you from the stones effects. Amardes is quick to find the trail of the displaced earth, following it north for over an hour. A deep ravine plunges into the earth, many hundreds of feet deep and its length extending towards the horizon. The bitter cold appears to be flowing through this fissure in the earth, a strong wind hitting you directly from inside. The passage of displaced earth continues down into the ravine.

Amardes was getting more and more worried about Kor. She wasn't very hopeful that he would be able to survive such a journey. Still this was the only thing they could do to help

As the arrived at what looked to be a very unpleasant place she changed back to her Elf form and murmurred to the others "Not a good place. Are there any precautions we want to take before we descend?"

"Underground all that way, I'm afraid Kor is dead in any case. Ropes should be used in case of falls."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:16, Sun 09 Aug 2020.

Shanaera couldn't agree more with Aergleel even though she didn't want to admit it.  Most likely Kor was dead, for how could he not be.  She thought of herself being dragged down and through the ground and shuddered at the thought.  She hoped her friends would be doing as they are now and be looking for her as well.  "Yes, ropes and climbing gear for sure.  Other than that I can't think what else we could use at this moment."

"Well if there was any doubt that the wolves were unnatural I think the whole 'disintegrating into minerals' should be pretty convincing. We should take a closer look at those once we find Kor" Ruven stated as he watched Aergleel pick up the remains of the wolves. He otherwise followed the others.

He peered down into the ravine that the trail led them to. "Clearly we are dealing with something magical here. Who knows how Kor was transported beneath the surface, he could still be fine." Ruven said more for his own peace of mind than to encourage the others. He put his pack down and dug around the contents until he finally pulled out some silk rope. "I've got about 50 feet so unfortunately not nearly enough to safely climb down. I guess we could tie ourselves together. Maybe we should traverse the ledge and attempt to find a safer way down?"

"I neglected to bring rope!" Aergleel announced as he went through his pack. "I thought I had 50 feet as well! I don't. I'm a mutton head."

Looking down the ravine, you notice the trail is easier to make out, going down a specific path that looks perilously close over the edge. Although barely big enough to allow passage for you one at a time, there is no good handholds along it. With enough rope, your group can tied themselves together, and thereby hopefully prevent a plunge to their deaths the hundreds of feet down.

OOC: If you use the silk, rope, there should be enough to tie you all together and allow moderate freedom of movement. If anyone has a use rope skill, roll it and for every five points above DC 10, it will provide the group with a +1 to Reflex saves to keep from falling down the side of the ravine. Whoever has the highest roll gives the benefit.

When you begin to march down single file, give me three reflex saves, DC's of (13 for the first, 15 for the second, and 18 for the third).

Shanaera pulled out her silk rope so that the group could use it along with other who had some.

Once they were all tied off and ready to descend down the cliff Shanaera went first.


09:30, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 24 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref save 3.
09:30, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 21 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref save 2.
09:29, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 19 using 2d20+6, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref save 1.
09:29, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 21 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Use rope

OOC Don't know what to write. I'll wait for the GM to tell me what happens

Reflex saves 19,33,14


This message was last edited by the player at 10:25, Thu 13 Aug 2020.

In reply to Amardes Leithianeth (msg # 163):

08:24, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

08:24, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

08:24, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

08:23, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  use rope.

Failed at least 2 reflex saves unless I had a plus, might only be one.

11:52, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 3 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

11:52, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

11:52, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  reflex save.

16. 21, 6, failed the last roll
This message was last edited by the player at 15:54, Thu 13 Aug 2020.

With a sigh Ruven followed the others down into the ravine.

10:45, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 22 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref Save 3.
10:45, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 19 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref Save 2.
10:44, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 22 using 2d20+4, dropping the lowest dice only.  Ref Save 1.

Following the narrow trail down the ravine's side, the group appears to be doing well. As they descend, part of the trail appear to crumble slightly, small pieces breaking away, but not much that your group can't avoid or handle. It is, however, towards the end of the rough trail down that Amardes in her hybrid form collapses part of the trail as she was walking on it. Catching her by surprise, she scrambles with her claws to hold on as she begins to fall. Using her natural reflexes, she turns her fall into a slightly lesser fall as she tumbled down the remaining thirty feet to the bottom. 3 Points of Damage, 3 Points of Subdual Damage

Unfortunately for the group, Aergleel was the next closest to the collapse, and he too began to fall. Were it not for the rope tied to his companions, Aergleel would have fallen down next to Amardes, but the quick actions of Ruven, Shanaera, and Casyr prevent him from falling (and taking them over the edge as well). Aergleel's face hits the side of the ravine, roughing him up slightly, while the strain on his companions begin to exercise muscles rarely used apparently. Aergleel takes 4 points of subdual damage, Casyr, Ruven, and Shanaera take 2 points of subdual damage Thankful for his companions holding on to him, Aergleel uses the rope and his hands to get back onto the trail quickly, panting heavily, the group sees a ten foot gap in the trail ahead, thirty more feet to descend, and Amardes on the floor of the ravine, looking slightly worse for the wear.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 19:09, Fri 14 Aug 2020.

"Looks like I've broken my nose, damnit! I hate bloody noses, and now we have a chasm to cross or a 30' descent!"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:13, Fri 14 Aug 2020.

When Amardes had fallen, Shanaera had cursed under her breath.  She had wished that Amardes would have tied off with them for it may have prevented the fall.  Her thoughts were short-lived though as Aergleel had slipped and it put a huge strain on all of them to just keep him from falling the rest of the way.   "Are you okay Aergleel?"  SHanaera said as the got him back to his feet finally.

The next obstacle emerged in front of them seconds later as the trail fell away presenting a 30ft gap they needed to navigate.  "Now what are we going to do?"  Shanaera asked.

Shanaera looked for spots that they could possibly tie off on and lower themselves the rest of the way.

09:00, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 15 using 2d20+8, dropping the lowest dice only.  spot check.
Did we ever figure out how much rope we had?

Amardes could not imagine why the others wanted to rely on a rope that could so easily cause all of them to die. One would pull a second. The second a third. And then they would all go. Tied together they couldn't move as well and that too make it more likely they would have problems. Still it was their choice

Instead she traveled in a way that the others could not. Belly close to the ground, claws out and sticking in the ice. Even so she was unlucky, but at least she wasn't resonsible for all the others falling with her.

She was now hurting. A lot. If they got in a fight like the last one she doubted if she had the ability to survive it. Still at least she was alive now. She gave a painful 'I am ok gesture' and looked around to understand what the situation was. Where there things of interest down here now that she had got to the bottom

Ruven gripped the side of the ravine as if his life depended on it when he saw Aergleel had begun to fall. 'That was close,' he thought as he looked down. The bard winced when he saw how far Amardes had plunged into the ravine. They were lucky she had only fallen a few dozen feet. That still left them stranded on the ledge. He also looked around to find a spot to anchor a rope, they were close enough now they could just climb down if need be. "If we can find an anchor we could probably use the rope to climb down, or if one of us would like to volunteer to hold it that would work too."

10:15, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 24 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Spot.

As far as rope goes Ruven has supplied 50 ft, Aergleel has confirmed he has none, and the other two are unconfirmed. As long as you have 30 ft Shanaera we should be able to use it to go down assuming we find an anchor spot.

I have 50ft silk rope

Casyr had been trooping along with the rest of the party helping with tracks and other things while keeping ready in case of any further action. The ravine posed a great barrier to the party. Like many others in the party he had no rope with him to offer assistance. He also had only about the same skill as a child in climbing, it's not like he had done it regularly or needed to.

Casyr though was willing to help, he'd need to stow his bow to make the trek down the ravine that would be dangerous but once he was down below he could take it back out. He heard the question about the mule and realized one of the other members probably had a mule. "I could help keep the mule steady while you climbed down the rope I think," he offered.

"I broke my nose Shan, I'm bleeding like a stuck hog! I'll be ready to go down when I get it under control."

As Amardes fell down into the ravine, most of you begin to feel the bitter cold wind bite sharply into you that you didn't feel before. It is with a moment of recognition that you realize that Amardes carries the acorn which warded your group, and you were now outside the range of that protection.

OOC: Casyr, Ruven, and Shanaera you each are dealt 4 points of Cold Damage barring any resistances. Aergleel, your shield is still warding you from the effects of the cold. Everyone made their saves against the environmental cold subdual damage.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:22, Tue 18 Aug 2020.

Shanaera began to look through her pack, she knew she had something that could help out with tying off the rope but she had to find it first.  "Ah, yes, this should help!  I can rig this kit so that I can tie off a portion of the silk rope, and secure it to the rock face, and then we descend the rest of the way into the ravine.  It should give people a better chance at climbing down."

Doing this gives everyone a +2 to climb down to the ravine.

Casyr shivered from the cold asking "We need to make a fire and get out of the wind if we are to make it through the night. I don't suppose any of you spellcasters can protect us from this weather?"

"Protection from the weather? I don't know such a spell. The magical acorn will hopefully hold out until we solve this issue. It will be better once we reunite with Amardes down below. Once we are all safely down I can heal those who are injured," He told Casyr and Aergleel respectively. Ruven waited his turn and then descended down the rope.

13:30, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 10 using 2d20+1, dropping the lowest dice only.  Climb Check (Bonus Included).

Aergleel followed down the rope.

Aergleel failed 09:19, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 12 using 1d20-1+2.  climb.


09:28, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  climb.

A 12 it is.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:39, Wed 19 Aug 2020.

As you all begin to descend down the slippery silk rope, you notice that the almost every but Casyr is having issues going down the rope. It could be the cold air finally getting to you, but after a moment, it appears no one makes any headway. With a sudden gust of wind, Ruven and Aergleel both lose their hold on the rope, falling down the side of the ravine. Thankfully, it is towards the bottom of the path. Shanaera holds on tightly, not making much headway at first, but after a moment, successfully descends the rest of the way. Casyr has no problem climbing down the rope, his training in the forests having provided him with the expertise to climb. Once you are closer to the bottom, and Amardes, everyone feels the same affect of the acorn once more, the cold fading from your bodies. It truly was a useful gift the treant had given you.

OOC: Ruven and Aergleel both take 11 points of falling damage. Shanaera and Casyr both make it down fine.

Now that you are at the bottom, you notice that the area is relatively clear of brush, and the reason for the ravine is now apparent. A thin stream once flowed through here, and from your position, it probably flowed to the direction in which your group came from. Looking in that direction, in the early morning light, you can see that the stream apparently flowed into the earth at the end of the ravine, descending into the mysterious depths of the world. The stream is now a frozen solid band of water, roughly ten feet wide. It was obviously flash frozen by whatever is causing this weather. Looking to the source, you see in the distance a mountain, covered in snow, and it looks like the ravine probably stretches the distance. You can make out the barest hint of ice or frost along the edges of the ravine in the direction you would be heading, many hundreds of yards away.

Casyr looks over the injured. He was not yet skilled enough to lay on hands. They also didn't have much in the way of supplies. He was happy to feel the warmth of the acorn again and the protection it brought.

"We need to take care of those wounds," he tells them looking over their wounds to make sure they didn't break anything.

"I think if anyone has any healing we need to take care of these before moving on, they might lead to something worse," he said

Ruven had never been a skilled climber, and that was apparent as he hurdled towards the ravine floor. He shakily pulled himself up to his feet and looked around, it seemed many of them had been injured at this point. "Well, I have healing but not enough for everyone. Either someone else is going to have to help me heal or we're going to have to figure out who has to tough it out" he regretfully informed the group.

OOC: I have 3 healing spells before I'm burnt out. I don't know everyone's hp so if you want healing speak now.

Aergleel fell a lng way and landed on his back, knocking the wind from him! He laid there in pain for several moments before sitting up. Nothing seemed broken except his nose. He had two black eyes like a racoon! The blood had mostly stopped flowing from his face. He didn't notice the cold because of his shield.

OOC - down 16.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:31, Thu 20 Aug 2020.

Shanaera made the bottom of the ravine a bit winded and cold but no worse for wear.  The others who fell though didn't look too good right now and Shanaera moved closer to Aergleel to give him some comfort. "Besides healing do we want to stop for a bit and warm-up?  I certainly could use a fire right about now!"

Aergleel hands his shield to Shanaera so that she can warm up. It worked well at keeping him comfortable. She could hold it until a fire was built if she wanted to.

Shanaera gladly accepts the shield from Aergleel giving him a cold lipped peck on the cheek.  "Thank you for this!"  She says between shivering teeth.

"I'm hesitant to slow down. I know the magic of the acorn should keep us safe but if it were to fail I think we would freeze to death before we could climb out of here. Plus I don't want to give up on Kor, he's down here somewhere" Ruven said as he looked down the ravine at the frozen stream.

"However," he said after he looked at the mountain in the distance, "I realize that travelling at night has it's own dangers. Especially as we travel to the source of this disturbance. If the group wants to rest here we can." The bard leaned down and chanted a few words before he touched himself and Aergleel. Both elves soon found their wounds rapidly closing.

OOC: Ruven casts "Vigor, Lesser" on Aergleel and himself. They gain fast healing 1 for 11 rounds.

You do not feel the bitter cold due to the effects of the acorn, but you rest was disturbed by the white wolves attacks from earlier. If Kor is still alive, he would probably be just as alive now as after a few hours of rest to recuperate. Amardes shakes her head sadly, before gesturing for you to follow her in the opposite direction. "As much as I desire to save our friend Kor, we need to rest, and we need to find some shelter to do so. If we follow the frozen stream down, there is a likely cavern system where this steam leads below ground, and perhaps a safe place camp." The wild druidess spoke, shifting back into her hybrid form and beginning to move downstream, avoiding the patches of ice that formed too close to the path.

Casyr looked about the area and nodded at the suggestion, "Seems reasonable to me." He then took to looking for a path, one things was certain they didn't want to get in the water. In this cold it would lead to a quick death he was sure of that. He wished he'd spent more time learning geography outside their home which would of been useful in this time.

He stared at the mountain for a time before he turned and nodded to Amardes. It seemed the centaur's rescue would have to wait until morning. Ruven followed the elf turned beast down the ravine. He trusted her expertise in traversing the wilderness over his own.

Amardes guides you to a down the path, eventually finding a cave that blocks the chill from the wind. Going deep inside, you set up camp and Amardes begins to cast spells that heal you all. Your trances are uninterrupted, and you awaken from them refreshed and inspired, feeling you have grown since you have left Gentlebreeze. Amardes stretches before opening a bag, handing out pieces of dried fruit for everyone to eat. "As long as the acorn the treant provided us last, we should make enough headway now that it is daylight that I suspect we can reach where ever this unnatural cold is coming from sooner rather than later. Poor Kor needs our help, but from the looks of it we are all in better places than we were before our rest. I am going to be moving fast, and not actively tracking, unless there is a better solution than this?" She spoke, shifting to her hybrid form. The path your group followed was still noticable since the last time you traversed it, the dirt displacement a little easier to see than in the twilight. Whatever had made it was now obviously larger than an elf, but how much larger it was hard to say. Amardes moves swiftly, her claws digging into the frost covered earth of the bottom of the ravine.

After about an hour, you notice a group of humanoids approaching you from the direction of the howling winds. They are obviously orcs, wearing furs and weapons out. There are five of them, a sort of twisted reflection of your own party; one a warrior wielding a spear and shield, one obviously a sorcerer, one that is part beast, one that wields a massive bow, and one that appears to be a shaman. The looks on their faces are one of hatred and battle, it looks like they are going to attack.

OOC: Spot checks and Initiatives.

16:54, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  spot.

16:54, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  initiative.

Maybe it was the frost on the trees, maybe thoughts of Kor but Casyr seemed distracted as the group continued.


OOC:
18:59, Today: Casyr rolled 10 using 1d20+8.  Spot (add 3 more for Orcs).

18:59, Today: Casyr rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

Ruven stretched the next morning when he roused from his trance. Although concern for Kor still lingered the bard couldn't help but feel as if he was ready to take on the world. He trusted Amardes to know the best way to track something so he followed her lead. At first he had been optimistic when he spotted humanoids but when he noticed their aggressive posture he prepared himself for battle.


22:23, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 15 using 1d20+8.  Initiative.
22:22, Today: Ruven Reykalyn rolled 25 using 2d20+9, dropping the lowest dice only.  Spot.

Shanaera felt a lot better with the acorn and a good rest.  She was warmer and with the sun up she hoped it would bring more warmth to the land.

Spot 23 initiative 20

Shanaera could notice that there was some kind of shiny/glimmery thing that was between the two groups.  Shanaera wondered if it was some kind of ghostly presence or perhaps a field or wall even.  Wanting to know more Shanaera cast detect magic to see if it was magical.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:39, Thu 17 Sept 2020.

The cold wind still blows hard as you approach the orcs, but you all notice that they are not immediately attacking you. About the same time that Shanaera begins to cast a spell, the orc sorcerer does so as well (DC: 15 Spellcraft to figure out what spell it is.) It appears like they are waiting for the opportunity to strike quickly.


OOC: First round of actions please.

09:13, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 28 using 2d20+9, dropping the lowest dice only.  spellcraft check.

Shanaera sees the orc begin to cast a spell and tries to identify it to tell her companions.  "Ready yourselves!"

Distance to the orcs? Would probably dictates what I can do.

In reply to Casyr (msg # 198):

Aergleel took a shot with his bow but missed wide, so hung his bow and drew his sword!

08:54, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  initiative.

08:53, Today: Aergleel Greenleaf rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  to hit.

Ruven closely examined the events. He looked at Shanaera who had cast a spell and then back at the orc sorcerer. "Wait! Don't attack! I think this is some sort of illusion. They are some sort of reflection of ourselves. There is some sort of barrier between us," he commented. He held his hands up in a non-aggressive gesture and approached the 'wall' to confirm if one of the orcs would mimic his movements.

As Aergleel lets loose with his arrow, the orc with spear and shield does the same with its spear, hurling it towards foe. The arrow released misses the orc, just barely, and the spear misses the elven cleric by similar margins. As you watch, the spear shatters into icy bits as it hits the ground.

The shaman appears to speak to the other orcs, and holds up its hands in the form of a non-aggressive gesture...for an orc, and approaches Ruven curiously.

OOC: Thirty feet distance, to be fair. To those who understand orc, it doesn't make any sense what the shaman is speaking without a DC 15 Intelligence roll.

In reply to Corellon Larethian (msg # 201):

PM

With Ruven's caution Casyr lowers his bow which he had planned to shoot the enemy caster with. He detects evil to see if there is evil about the 'orcs'.

Shanaera watched Ruvan and noticed also that what she did was mimicked by the other on the other side as did the one with Ruvan.  "It seemed to be some sort of mirror I think.  See if you can go through the field of magic, Ruvan."

With enlightenment from Ruven's words the aggressive look on the elf's face turned to one of intrigue. Looking around at the group she frowned seeing the bestial orc wondering if that was supposed to be her counterpart. He brought her hand up to her face pretending like she was looking into a mirror.

The orc's voice made no sense to the druidess so she gave little thought to it more intrigued by the magics involved in this area. For the moment she only moved her arms about as she watched the orcs observing how they react.

OOC 10:43, Today: Amardes Leithianeth rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Spellcraft.

10:39, Today: Amardes Leithianeth rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Intelligence Check.

"Right, I guess that's probably a good idea," he said in response to Shanaera's suggestion. He eyed the space between the two groups as he attempted to discern where the split was. After a while he reached into his pack and grabbed some rope. "Someone want to hold onto this in case I get sucked in? I'd rather not get stuck in some trap." He waited until someone took one end of the rope and wrapped the other end around his waist. He slowly approached where he thought the barrier was and stuck an arm through. After several moments, assuming nothing suspicious happened, he stepped through the mirror.

In reply to Ruven Reykalyn (msg # 206):

Aergleel ties the other end around his waist, He hoped Ruven didn't get sucked into the 'mirror' where he would be wildly outnumbered.

As the group moves to to discuss what is happening, the "mirror" group duplicates their actions. As Ruven gets closer he begins to feel a chill emanating from the "mirror wall", the cold air somehow being amplified by the mysterious mirror wall. As Ruven pushes his hand against it, the cold lashes out against him, frost forming along his hand. But also it gives Ruven an insight about the mirror wall.

Ruven winced as frost formed on his hand. He pulled his limb out and stepped back as if the scenery had changed. "Well like we suspected it's some sort of trap. It's not actually a wall, it's a net. There are various glowing blue strings strung up in the ravine. I believe it's called 'Mirage Thread', it's supposed to enhance illusion effects. It might be pretty useful if we can get it down without wrecking the thread. Care to take a stab at disabling it Shanaera?"

Shanaera looks at the 'trap' as Ruvan had explained it felt like.  Shanaera then tries to see what she could do to disable it and possibly bring it with them as a weapon of sorts.

17:29, Today: Shanaera Sinsaulii rolled 24 using 2d20+11, dropping the lowest dice only.  reroll forgot to drop 1.  disable device.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:30, Thu 24 Sept 2020.

Shanaera examines the wall with her detect magic, piercing the illusionary effects of the net wall that she could now clearly see. Thinking back to her training, Shanaera reaches for Dusk, and thrusts the staff into the net. The staff seems to absorb the cold energy running through the net, and with a twist, she begins to wind the threads around the staff, breaking the icy blue glow she perceived as the thread begins to unravel from the net wall. Within a matter of moments, everybody sees the illusion disappear, revealing the ravine before them curving ahead around a bend. Shanaera's shadow staff is covered on the tip by a spool of gossamer thread.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:44, Sat 26 Sept 2020.

"Someone willing to use such illusions and traps most likely left more than one, question is how do we spot them before we get to them?" Casyr asked.

Shanaera's eyes went wide as her detect magic revealed more truth about the illusion before her.  As she thought of an idea to remove the thread she smiled even wider when the thread wound around Dusk.

When Casyr made his comment Shanaera answered, "That is possible.  As we walk I can constantly cast my detect magic.  It will reveal any we might find along with anything else out there that may be magical."

Amardes watched and admired as Ruven and Shaaera evaluated and then removed the trap in quick order. The Druidess admired skill and her companions indeed had it, she nodded as Casyr and Shanaera spoke once more. "It would be good to keep an eye open for more mundane traps too. It would be a shame to fall into a pit or something similar while searching for magical danger. I can also support you with magical detection." She said with a kind smile.

Ruven leaned down to inspect the threads now wrapped around the staff. He was amazed as Shanaera made the task of removing the thread look like a simple task. He then turned his attention to the ravine. "I can cast detect magic if need be but we might want to not burn all our cantrips. The spell only lasts a few minutes and for all we know we might still have hours to travel. Speaking of which we should press on while her current 'Detect Magic' is active."

The group, having overcome yet another obstacle in their way, decide to move on. With the ravine being wide enough to walk close to Amardes and the acorn, Shanaera keeps a look out for more traps. Between Casyr and Amardes' tracking skills, the group is able to follow the disturbance in the earth, around the bend in the ravine, as it traced back and forth around multiple bends in the ravine. After three hours of travel, you come upon what appears to be a split in the ravine, in one direction the wind blows stronger, the icy chill almost penetrating the protections your group has. In the other, the disturbance continues on to what appears to be a cul de sac and cave entrance in the split of the ravine.

In reply to Corellon Larethian (msg # 216):

"It appears the cave is our first destination. Then the cold of death in the other ravine!" he says to the others.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:41, Wed 30 Sept 2020.

"Might as well get on it," Casyr says and starts looking for landmarks to remember what path they took and how to get back here.

Shanaera agreed with heading to the cave first.  Finding Kor was important and if this was where he was they needed to look.

"Yes, let's head to the cave first.  Besides it is not s cold that way either."  Shanaera said echoing Aergleel.

Ruven wrapped his cloak tighter around his person. As they had proceeded further into the ravine it seemed the chill had only grown stronger. He nodded at the group's desire to enter the cave. "Let us hope this cave isn't another illusion," he joked as he took out his bow. He reached for an arrow before he chanted a few words and touched it. When he removed his hand the arrowhead glowed brightly to light their way. He nocked the arrow turned torch and followed the others into the cave.

Amardes pauses waiting for the rest of the group as she stares from the area spewing the cold air to the cave in the other. "To the cave then." She says with a slight smile before continuing forward. Now slightly slower incase this is another trap.

Casyr will move to the Cave and will check for tracks outside the entrance of the cave to see if it is used by any of nature's critters.

Ruven's arrow shines with bright sunlight, illuminating a wide area as it enters the cave. The arrow lights up a large cavern past the initial entrance, and with what looks like passages beyond.

Casyr holds up his hand and points to the ground as he told the others "Orc tracks here outside the cave. About a dozen orcs or so I reckon from what I can see. This is probably not the only entrance to the cave, they seem to avoid using this when the wind is up based on the tracks they've left."

Shanaera considered the glowing arrow in the cave, before looking to Ruvan. "I do not suppose you can suppress the light from that arrow from here? It may have given the orcs a warning that danger, I mean, we, are approaching." She asked, unweaving the Mirage Thread from the tip of Dusk, and stowing the components into her spell component pouch. With a few moments notice, the shadowy staff transformed into a rapier like blade. The shadow mage was looking slightly distracted by the cave entrance, as if worried about something.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:20, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

In reply to Shanaera Sinsaulii (msg # 225):

Aergleel kissed Shan on the top of the head and readied himself for combat.

Ruven nodded at Shanaera's request and dismissed the light on his arrow. "I was actually thinking the same thing. I don't think any of us can see in the dark like orcs can. We either walk in blind and they jump us, or we go in with lights and they jump us." He commented with a grimace. He turned back to look outside, "maybe we should progress through the ravine? Casyr said that he believes they avoid the winds. With the protection of the acorn we might be able to sneak past them without incident."

"My guess is they would have already attacked if they had been at the entrance, the light may have already attracted them to investigate though. Rare is it for an orc to be worth anything more than death though," Casyr said.

Amardes pondered for a moment. "Should we perhaps try and hide ourselves here for a while, turn their trap against them? Perhaps we could stand by the cave wall and Shanaera could put up an illusion of the cave wall in front of us?" The druidess offered in a tentative voice.

The bard nodded at Amardes' suggestion. "If we want to face them here at the entrance where their is lighting would be good. An ambush would be even better. Even if Shanaera can't create an illusionary wall we can hide in the ravine. If I need to I can make some noise and act as a distraction to lure them outside," Ruven offered.