The group gather what gear they can and gather it in the mess hall, the largest room in the tower minus the stable (Which is cluttered with partitions)

Other than the weapons in the armory, consisting of swords, armor, bows crossbows and daggers, the place had the bare minimum. Even the separate bedrooms, with the bunks of others, had little in ways of riches with the most having their own clothes and little else. The kitchen held a storeroom with enough food for 30 people to survive several months, with fruit and fresh meat for a few days, then more non-perishable items like dried fruit and meat, flour, rice and rations. A stocked shelf of herbs and spices shown proved whoever the cook here was, had a talent for creating the most bland materials into a meal with various spices

A storeroom held several barrels of oil, and though not enough to destroy the keep, the fire would damage the spire significantly enough that anyone cming back would spend months making it habitable.

Gathering what you can, Praelia and Thum go about the task of setting up ready to destroy any other items left.

Most of the morning is spent, and by the time party is ready to leave, it is past mid morning. Gathering what you can carry, Praelia, ever praticle and ready to see her plan through, lit a torch and went through, lighting the oil. Without looking back, the group went west on the way to red larch. After a few hours walking, the tower was out of sight, but a faint column of smoke could be seen behind you.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was an hour before sundown when the group found themselves on the familiar road in front of the inn. entering in, you see the familiar sight of Kaylessa Irkell, the owner of the swinging sword at the bar, cleaning glasses ready for the night. Her barmaid, though out of sight, could be heard in the kitchen.

The inn held several people. A human sat quetly with what looked like a guards uniform, eating a stew with bread. At another table, a halfing sat with a gnome in unusual armor, speaking over some ale.

Kaylessa looked up and smiled with a look of relief. "My dear's...i thought you gone or something happened to you. Lady Tanique, Lany Thalia....are you ok?" She looks at the group and ushers you to a larger table, a suprised look for the dragonborn. You notice, however, that the human rogue, gathering his pack, looked at Naeldil with a glare, and just walked out of the inn.

Bafruk looked after him and snorted. "Let 'im go....brooding human wouldn't have stayed anyway." As he spoke, Kaylessa held her hand up, and grasped a piece of parchment. "Master Bafruk....A dwarven courier came yesterday and left this. He bade me leave this with you urgently"

The dwarf nodded, and grabbing the letter, looked at the others. "Give me a moment lads and lasses...i'll be in me room. Canye order me a meal and some ale....that ordeal was thirsty work"

With that he retreated into his room.

As the group sat down, you could all hear a little comotion. Kaylessa came to the table with a smile. "It's good to see you all back...i'll bring a round of drinks and when dinner is ready, that too."  The comotion became louder, and Kaylessa as well as the human looked up as a boy of maybe 14 came in.

"Commander Harburk...Their are people attacking the north of town with monsters! Come help please!"

<OOC: All people have now returned to Red Larch. You may list what gearyou took back to use or sell.

Peregrin and Prig.....you have seen this group of mixed races come in...you have arrived a few hours earlier. Please describe what you look like to them all

A kid has come and said something about men AND monsters attacking on the outskirts of town.  The man (commander Harburk, the Constable of Red Larch) is getting up>

Glares the whole way back at the firebugs for ignoring Lady Thalia and Sister Tanique.
Even illusionary big eyed glares.

Tanique had loaded up on spices and other small valuables, while taking food for the road.
She was quiet most of the trip back.   Just happy to be heading back to civilization.


She was startled by the announcement of monsters attacking.  She looked at the others.
"Should we help?"

Startled out of her glaring.

"Monsters ! yes we should help."

With the Halfling sits a small gnome, barely an inch over three feet tall. His skin is a barkish brown, and he has a shaggy black hair, and a more well kept beard of the same color. But most notable of him is his dark blue scale armor, its metal covering all of him but the head. Though you can't really see it well from where you are, there seems to be something greenish on the back of his right gauntlet.

As the party enters, he looks them over, and if he happens to meet eyes with the gnome there gives a polite nod. He then turns towards the halfling, and says something too quietly for the others to hear.

As the boy gives his cry for help, he is instantly on his feet. He speaks again, still to the halfling, but loud enough for others to hear: "You don't think, speak of the devil?" He starts making his way towards the door.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Xantria will brighten for a moment seeing a fellow Gnome.

Her eyes dance with merriment then she looks up to her companions to see if they will come along.

At the tower Thum had tied 5 crossbows together for easier carrying. He carried them over his shoulder. Also, much earlier he took a longsword and a breastplate from some foe he killed.

He smiled as he entered his 'second home' the Swinging Sword. "KAYLESSA!  You are such a sweet sight." He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. "It's good to see you. Ale and stew please?"

At the call of 'monsters fighting' Thum cursed a little. He put his bundle of crossbows on the bar. "I will be back for these later." He then took a full mug of ale and drank it all down in about 4 seconds. "Let's go and fight like bears."

"Harburk, I will come with you."

He took his great axe and headed for the door.

Apart from the obvious of being a Halfling, Peregrin dresses like what one might expect of a huntsman, wilderness guide, or explorer. When travelling, as he was earlier during the day, he wears light leather armor with a rapier at his side and a shortbow slung over his back. In town and not expecting trouble, he may leave his pack, shortbow, and any larger equipment behind in his room, but he had no yet secured one for the evening. Thus, his pack and bow lay under his feet at the table.

In demeanor, he looks pleasant, even if slightly dusted with dirt. While he does not present with the air of a soldier, he keeps himself squared away and gives fair attention to his appearance and appears to have a comfortable lifestyle.

He takes great interest in the motley band of adventurers coming into the restaurant, and he listens carefully to how the innkeeper address certain ones by name, and others not at all. As the conversations continue, he shakes his head affirmatively to Prigs. Then, the boy rushes in. "Monsters?" Peregrin says aloud, presumably to Prigs, "and men?" Certainly, this he has to see with his own eyes.

In a swift single movement, he hops off of the stool and reaches down with his left hand to grab his pack and bow. For the moment, he does not take the time to engage the newcomers but rather scampers in between them and out the door. Once in the street, he shields the sun from his eyes and peers, hoping to see something. "Do you think it's the cult?" he asks Prigs once he is outside is well.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Kaylessa wrinkles her nose and smiles at the kiss from the  half orc. "Thum....you need a bath. You smell worse than the pigs."

The human woman looked at their belongings, and nodded. "I'll watch your stuff...go and play."

Praelia had not joined the others at their table as she had not been invited.  Clearly some resented her presence, especially the gnome, and she would trouble them no further.  Her mission beckoned and she would spend a night in rest and then return to the road.  She took a seat at the bar and requested a room for the night from the innkeep.

When the boy called his news, Praelia placed her pack behind the bar and dropped a gold coin on to the bar.  As she stood she called to Kaylessa, "Put my pack in my room please."

Without a second thought she snatched up her glaive and other weapons and ran out of the inn towards the trouble.  On realisation, she slowed and waited for the Commander to offer her services to the town defense.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:05, Sat 20 Mar 2021.

Naeldil having kept an eye on the rogue and a healthy distance from him during the whole trip, was looking forward to having some rest and relaxation. Her mood was far less cheerful than when they departed. Alas! That was not to be. The elf rushed outside, fearing that they had been followed by the angry cultist, at least if one was to go by the description.

Thalia's mood on the way back to town was downcast and she wore a gloomy expression on her face. Not even her sister could lift her spirits it seemed. When they arrived she felt grimy and dirty and uncomfortable altogether. "Hello Kaylessa." she greeted the innkeeper. "A room for me and a bath, if you please." she asked unusually polite. "Some hot tea would be welcome, too." she added in a subdued voice, then dropped on a seat.

The sorceress kept brooding while the people around her went about their business. Only when the boy showed up, requiring the guard commander to help against the monster raid, did she look up. "You go and help the good folk here, but this is not my fight." she commented, looking at her sister. "I will go back to Mulmaster and tell the Belabantras what we found out about their daughter. Selune be with you." the aasimar explained.

Tanique nodded to her sister
"Good luck,  Thalia.   I'll see you back home the next time I'm passing through "

Xan's eyes shimmered a bit and she sniffed.

"I am sorry I couldn't convince them to stop Thalia." Her face downcast.

"I am going to see if I can help the town, for all I know it may be the cultists out there."

In reply to Xantria (msg # 14):

Tanique smiled down at her little friend
"Now, now....don't you worry, my dear.  You know our Thalia.   She has her own appointments to keep"

"I know, Im just going to miss her a lot. The both of you made this adventuring fun for me." She sniffles a bit more but follows Sister Tanique.

Tanique paused and gave her small friend a hug

Xan hugged Sister Tanique back.

"Let's keep each other safe."

Joining Peregrin outside, Prigs tries to remember which way is north, and joins his friend in gazing towards it. To his question, he answers: "Sounds awfully lot like so. You don't usually hear about monsters joining forces with people, I bet you would need to be just as evil as the monsters to gain their help."

With Bafruk in his room obvious to what is happening and Thalia in her own world, the rest seem to mill out into the street, Thum and Praelia looking at each other and almost sensing an upcoming battle. The new gnome and halfling follow after with tanique and Xandria costly following, and the nimble elf the rear.

The distance to the edge of town was a few short streets away, but as you go, you notice both the noise and commotion growing as you approach. Turning the final corner, hidden by the towns stable, you come to see an unusual and horrendous sight.

On the road is a body of a person, unrecognisable due to the damage. Not t meters back are three figures, in what seemed an argument. The two humans, dressed in stone like armour were berating a third figure. These humanoids wore stone masks, one held a stone headed maul, the other a stone buckler and a pick. The last of the three Stood to the side a little. This one, both not human or in stone armour was imposing on his own. The green Dragonborn was over six feet tall, wearing a dark black suit of chain mail, and held a wicked looking sword and a shield.

But it was what was between you and them that got your attention. Three huge insect-like beast, tearing at the flesh of the body, their chitionious armor brown now stained with red along their maws, their six legs clicking.

The three figures notice you, and stop talking. The Dragonborn seems in particular focused on Praelia, smiles a wicked smile.

Even as you stop and take the scene in quickly, the insectoids stop feeding.

....seemingly more prey has come to them.

<OOC: you’ve turned a corner to see this sight. In front of you (about 30 feet) are 3 insect like beasts. Anyone wanting to identify them roll a nature check.

Behind them another 40-45 feet are the three figures (two humanoids in stone like armour, and the Dragonborn. They seem to have an alliance, but don’t like each other much)

Now what?>


This message was last edited by the GM at 01:10, Wed 24 Mar 2021.

OOC: Correct me if not practical, but using a bit of theatre of the mind

As soon as they round the corner, Peregrin sees the activity in the street and instinctively hunches back behind the edge of the stables. When he recognizes that this looks like conflict, he glances at Prigs, "Take cover," as he scrambles on top of one of the barrels outside the stables and onto the roof.  Once atop, he lies down to remain hidden, or as much as possible, setting his pack down and readying his bow for what appears to be an unavoidable brawl.

Move: Climb onto roof, Stealth: 25, Action: Ready to shoot an opponent if it engages in melee with a friendly; otherwise holding for now.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:33, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

Looking about in the sky as she walks along for vultures or other birds.

"I don't see any..." rounding the stable.

"Wow those guys must be really strong look at them in that stone armor ! Oh another dragon person." Xan waves.

Her eyes then settle on the bugs.

"GarlGlitterGoldThoseThingsarebiggerthenmeImlikebitesized ! Ziiiiiiiip.

Xan hides behind the stable teeth chattering.

She prepares as best she can to help her friends but is trying to calm herself for the moment.

Thum saw the large bug things. He's sure he has heard about them before. He was trying to remember when he saw the men in stone armor. Those were the bastards that hurt his sister. His blood boiled. He wanted nothing more than to cut them to little bits. But first, he had to get past the bugs.

OOC:
08:16, Today: Thum rolled 7 using 1d20+2.  Initiative .
08:16, Today: Thum rolled 14 using 1d20-1.  Nature check.
With an Initiative roll of 7, I'm going wait a little while before posting my actions.  However, those know know Thum know he's mostly likely gonna charge one of the bugs. If nothing else, to prove his bravery


This message was last edited by the player at 14:25, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

08:22, Today: Xantria rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Wrenn-Gimble 'Prigs' Burren rolled 11 using 1d20+4.  Nature.
Wrenn-Gimble 'Prigs' Burren rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

Seeing these insectoid monsters, Prigs stops and takes a ready stance. He moves his left hand down his right arm, giving off green sparks. The move ends with a quick flick, throwing a green light to fly over the beasts. There the light burst into a rain of small green sparks, falling all over the bugs.

Action: Prigs casts Faerie Fire. 20-foot cube (I would think I can get all the insects in it), Dex save DC 14 or we have advantage on attacks against them for one minute (concentration).

At Peregrins word of advice, Prigs huffs. "Don't worry about me, I'm sure these beasts can't handle a canned meal", he answers with a smirk. With a quick touch to the neck area of his armor, a helmet grows out of it, covering his head.

Bonus action: deploy helmet. I don't know why they made it take a bonus action when it gives no mechanical benefit, but oh well.

Not fancying her chances at piercing a rock with her arrows or the sturdy looking flesh eating bugs, the elf promptly made the decision to have an arrow flying at the not so beloved member of the grim crew visiting the town.

19:03, Today: Naeldil rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.
19:03, Today: Naeldil rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  Nature.
19:10, Today: Naeldil rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Attack the knock off Praelia.
19:10, Today: Naeldil rolled 6 using 1d8+3.  Damage.
19:11, Today: Naeldil rolled 3 using 1d8.  Colossus if wounded before my turn.

18:17, Today: Peregrin Boffinbread rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

Tanique gasped at the disgusting scene, firing her crossbow at a bug

OOC :
19:07, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 9 using 1d20.  Crossbow.
19:05, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 8 using 1d20.  Initiative

Praelia roars loudly at the sight of her quarry.  She points out the dragonborn to Naeldil.  "I want that one taken down, preferably alive.  Preferably."  If the dragonborn died she'd be disappointed but satisfied.

Without waiting for an acknowledgement Praelia charged straight at the bugs between her and her quarry.  Her glaive swept out in vicious arcs, caution thrown to the wind as she sighted her quarry.


OOC: Praelia doesn't care what the bugs are, just that they're in her way!

Initiative: 12
Move to attack a bug (middle one - affected by faerie fire)
Attack with advantage (Glaive): 19
Bonus - Bonus attack: 17
Dex Saving Throw (vs Faerie Fire): 19 (Success)
This message was last edited by the player at 00:12, Sun 28 Mar 2021.

A little embarrassed the paladin charged in before he did, to roars, "Fight like a fuckin' bear!" And runs at one of the bugs. (not one that Praelia is attacking)

OOC:
Raging, cuz he hates those guys in stone armor

00:15, Today: Thum rolled 15 using 2d12+5, dropping the lowest dice only.
00:14, Today: Thum rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Great axe making a great attack.

I've been forgetting to use my feat... once per turn I can roll 2 damage dice and pick the higher roll
Savage Attacker PHB, pg. 169

I forgot the advantage roll (Sorry Prigs)
08:30, Today: Thum rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  attack advantage roll.
The 12 to hit roll stands
This message was last edited by the player at 14:33, Wed 24 Mar 2021.

Ok guys, i'm working on a rough map for next round, but basics are two of the three insect's are effected by the faerie fire, so anyone attacking either of the two gain advantage for each attack. If you attacked either the center or right one, you may reroll attack (They got an iniative of 1)

A post will be up tomorrow (And hopefully a map)

Peregrin's marvels as he eyes adjust to the magical light. Through it, he can see the bugs movement and weak spots between its armored plates much more clearly, almost as if looking through a spyglass. As the warriors close and the bugs respond, he fires an arrow into one of the joints between the bugs head and abdomen.

OOC: Having readied, when Thum or Praelia reaches a bug that has Faerie Fire on it (one or both should have), then Peregin shoots.  If necessarily, mechanically, he uses Cunning Action for extra move to switching to a kneeling position to fire.

Attack: 25
Damage: 5 + 6 (Sneak Attack)

Xantria peeks around the stable and works a sleep spell at second level. As she invokes her magic it seems like light snowflakes fall around the stoneclad warriors.



10:17, Today: Xantria rolled 30 using 7d8.  Sleep Spell.
Putting 30 HP of people to sleep

ROUND 1

Time seem to pause as the two groups of humanoids take in what they see. The two stone armoured figures and the dragonborn taking stock of the party, the party of the group AND the insectoids. The insectoids seem still focused on the body.

It was the dragonborn who moved quickly, sneering at Praelia, muttering something in draconic. [Language unknown: "Acnc men yinouttha."]

He stepped back, speaking to the humanoids softly so the group didn't hear, and the three begin to retreat. Before getting far, the nimble elf lines up and fires a shot at the dragonborn, hitting him in the shoulder. He stumbled, but looked at the elf and snarled. All three turned and ran.

...as the insectoids noticed a new meal.

Praelia strode forward, even though her eyes burned after the dragonborn, she stepped up and swung her massive weapon at the beast in the middle even as the new gnome moved his arm and fired a fine dust/like substance. Both Praelia (unintentionally) and one of the beasts avoid the chemical thrown, but two are hit, causing the glowing substance to cling to their shells.

Praelia, reaching the beast, swung her weapon with such force that the crack of shell could be heard, Cleaving into it's abdomen and cleaving a sythe-likie arm clean off.

Peregrin, seeing the sight, nimbly climbed to a vantage point. Even though the climb was not far, the smooth walls proved difficult and by the time he reached the roof, the humanoids were in full flight.

Xan, a little disturbed and scared, peaked around and flung some sand as she muttered a spell, the right hand beast snorted and dropped to the ground without a sound.

Tanique, aiming at the right of the dragonborn who attacked the centre one, fired her crossbow, missing the beast as it crouched, hissing.  Prigg, after flinging off the chemical, touched a part of his unusual armor, and seemingly from nowhere, a helmet 'folded out', leaving a slit for eyes as he stood there.

Thum, roaring in wild glee, ran in, swinging his axe. Where Praelia's hit was more controlled, Thum's was savage but no less brutal, cracking the same beast. Where the dragonborn cleaved the right side, the half orc, slamming left and down, caused it to shudder as it's head, neck and part of his abdomen fell clean off.

The one conscious beast, ignoring it's comrades, spat a corrosive green liquid at the half orc.

<OOC: Round one over. One Ankheg (Yes, that is what they are!) is dead, leaving one unconscious (also effected with faerie fire) and one unharmed. The humanoids are in full retreat, Though Naeldil hurt the dragonborn)


Round two please>



Naeldil: 22/22
Peregrin: 27/27
Praelia: 41/41
Tanique: 27/27
Thum: 41/41
Prigg: 31/31
Xantria: 28/28

Ankheg 1: ??/??
Ankheg 2:  Dead
Ankheg 3:  ??/??
Blackguard 1: ??/??
Blackguard 2: ??/??
Dragonborn: 9/??


https://1drv.ms/u/s!AifmGo6ZExbViJxFcKjKAXzrswyv_Q

Praelia roared and rushed off in pursuit of her quarry.  Ignoring the remaining bugs which the others could easily finish, run at full speed towards the dragonborn screaming the whole way.  [Language unknown: "Trsaof, oneeenwer rover ill omanei wivor espa o."]  As she ran she attempted to cast a spell to mark her foe.



OOC:  Full movement/dash.  I know Praelia will likely take an AOO from the ankheg, she doesn't care.  Hunter's mark as a bonus action on the dragonborn.  If out of range I'll take another dash action.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:34, Sun 28 Mar 2021.

Tanique moved towards the closest bug and shot again

OOC: 03:17, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 4 using 1d8.  Crossbow
03:16, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 15 using 1d20.  Attack

This message was last edited by the player at 01:50, Tue 30 Mar 2021.

Xantria took heart seeing her companions fell one of the bugs and her spell place another asleep. Took a step out and smiled releasing the tightness that had built up in her shoulders.

"Good work." she said in Gnomish to Prigs.

She saw Tani get close to one of the bugs.
Aiming one of her hands she encanted launching a ray of frost at the same bug that Sister Tanique did letting the sleeping one continue to sleep.


05:47, Today: Xantria rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  Ray of Frost.
05:48, Today: Xantria rolled 8 using 1d8.  Ray of Frost Damage.
and -10' movement to it.

By the time Peregrin scrambles on the roof and pulls his bow, two of the bugs are felled. As he looks for a shot in the melee, he see the dragonborn run forward in pursuit of the fleeing presumed cultists. Although he had no desire to engage when out-numbered, he too is anxious not to let these villains escape too easily.

Thus, the quick Halfling jumps down from the other side of the roof and begins to give chase, weaving behind boulders or brush whenever convenient, looking for an opportunity to get lost in the cover and observe his quarry.

OOC: Dash, Use Cunning Action for more movement. Hide if applicable. Peregrin wants to give chase and observe, not immediately engage these enemies.

Thum didn't see the bug spitting on him until it was too late. It burned him and pissed him off. He screamed *something* at the bug and took a step closer to swing with his great axe.

OOC:
13:26, Today: Thum rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  Dex Save vs acid attack. (oh oh)
13:27, Today: Thum rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Attack Bug .
13:28, Today: Thum rolled 10 using 2d12+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Damage..if needed.

(If by chance the bug dies, he will chase off after Praelia. Otherwise he will stay and kill the bug)

Naeldil chassed after the fleeing cultists, deftly letting another arrow fly after the only one out of them that wasn't covered in a layer of rock.

22:51, Today: Naeldil rolled 21 using 1d20+7.  pew pew you non Praelia draconian scum!
22:52, Today: Naeldil rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Damage.
22:52, Today: Naeldil rolled 8 using 1d8.  Colossus.

Prigs aims his right fist towards the beast still standing. A green gem on the back of the hand starts to glow slightly, before a green bolt of lightning jumps from the jewel towards the Ankheg.

Wrenn-Gimble 'Prigs' Burren rolled 18 using 1d20+6.  Lightning Launcher attack.
Wrenn-Gimble 'Prigs' Burren rolled 12 using 2d6+4.  Lightning Launcher damage.

"Wow." Xan's eyes sparkled a bit in the green lightning blast.

ROUND 2

As the Beast spits it's green liquid, you hear the sizzling of the acit as it hits the barbarian. Even in his rage, the pain of the searing liquid is felt through his attacks <OOC: Thum takes 14 Acid Damage>.

Praelia, enraged at the dragonborn fleeing, ran full bolt past the awake ankheg, the bug seeing an opening, swiping with its claw. Luckily, the hit glanced off the armor worn by the paladin, Praelia barely even noticing the hit. Likewise Peregrin saw the fleeing of the three figures and getting down quickly, slighting twisying an ankle, took off after the Dragonborn, quickly catching up to the point of almost level with her.

Naeldil, her eye sure, took aim again at the Dragonborn and fired, the arrow catching him in the shoulder, propelling him forward at a stumble.

Xantria, seeing the acid spray hit Thum full on, reacted with a simple spell, ice visibly forming on the ankheg's shell. Both Tanique and Prigg, almost as one, attack the standing Ankheg....The cleric sending a bolt into one of it's many shoulders and the armored gnome, moving his arm, sending a green lightning at the beast.

But it's Thum who had the last word.

The Ankheg never knew what it was in for until the axe cleaved down into it's skull, past it's neck and deep into the abdomen. Pulling out the axe, he swung again and again.

The three fleeing figures were pulling away slowly, and at best Praelia knew she could keep up.


<OOC: Two Ankheg's dead. One unconsious. Praelia and Peregrin have taken off after the humanoids. Thum is pretty hurt.

Round two please>



Naeldil: 22/22
Peregrin: 27/27
Praelia: 41/41
Tanique: 27/27
Thum: 27/41
Prigg: 31/31
Xantria: 28/28

Ankheg 1: ??/??  {Unconsious}
Ankheg 2:  Dead
Ankheg 3:  Dead
Blackguard 1: ??/??
Blackguard 2: ??/??
Dragonborn: 27/??


https://1drv.ms/u/s!AifmGo6ZExbViJxFcKjKAXzrswyv_Q
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:59, Mon 05 Apr 2021.

Sister Tanique,  fearing that the raging barbarian will chase after the other assailants,  acid wounds be darned, quickly ran to his side and cast a healing spell

OOC: 03:34, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 9 using 2d8+3.  Cure wounds

Praelia kept running, her eyes focused on the dragonborn.  She would chase him to the ends of Toril if needs be.

"We need horses." Xan looked into the stable and if there were horses she let her companions know.

Peregrin maintains his pursuit, not so much wishing to engage all three of them but to move from cover to cover, if any is available and get lost in the chaos.  He sees Praelia in pursuit but wonders how long she can keep it up in armor. Then again, the chased appear dressed in stone, which unless magic, must be cumbersome.

OOC: Cunning Action: Dash as appropriate to maintain distance from enemies

Naeldil continue to go after the fleeing culprits, only briefly digging her heels to let another arrow loose. "Stop right there!" She barked at them.

19:32, Today: Naeldil rolled 25 using 1d20+7.  pew pew Praelia faker.
19:33, Today: Naeldil rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Damage.
19:34, Today: Naeldil rolled 8 using 1d8.  Colosus slayer.

With a slight grunt, Thum pushed Tanique to the side. In his anger he barely noticed her or her healing touch.

He stepped next to the sleeping bug and swung his axe in a mighty overhand strike.

OOC:
12:50, Today: Thum rolled 23 using 2d12+5.  Damage (auto Crit).
12:50, Today: Thum rolled 23 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only.  Attack sleeping bug (advantage).

Thum was barely hurt.

Also, thank you, Tanique.

The half-orc seems to have this last Ankheg dealt with, so Prigs decides to get moving and dashes after the escaping cultists.

OOC:
Dash to move 60 feet in pursuit of the escaping enemies.

ROUND 3

With two of the three Ankheg's dead and the third unconscious, time seemed to stand still as each had their own goals. Praelia ran after the three spying them approaching what looked like a camp. The dragonborn, still a distance, saw them pull up as one crouched down into something while the dragonborn and the other stood ready, the dragonborn with arrows in its shoulder. Seeing her, he reached up, speaking and tore an arrow from his shoulder and dropped it.

Peregrin and Naeldil, close behind, manage to just catch up, the elf stopping only to fire another arrow at the dragonborn. Prigg, in his armor, clunks after them

Xan, Thum and Tanique remain behind, where the priestess heals the half orc. Not even noticing, he pushes the hand away and slams his axe repeatedly into the prone form of the final Ankheg, decimating it. Xan, looks around for horses, but see's none

The cultist stands and places a hand on the dragonborn's shoulder, the other cultist a hand on the first. The dragonborn grins at Praelia as the air hums with power.

<OOC: All ankhegs are dead, Thum is in a rage and is repeatedly hitting the corpse of the bugs. Xan and Tanique are there as well.

Praelia could try reach them next round with full movement/action. Likewise Peregrin with movement/dash/action you may reach them. Naeldil and Prigg will not reach melee for them next round.

Naeldil stuck another arrow in the dragonborn

Round three please>



Naeldil: 22/22
Peregrin: 27/27
Praelia: 41/41
Tanique: 27/27
Thum: 27/41
Prigg: 31/31
Xantria: 28/28

Ankheg 1: ??/??  {Unconsious}
Ankheg 2:  Dead
Ankheg 3:  Dead
Blackguard 1: ??/??
Blackguard 2: ??/??
Dragonborn: 27/??


https://1drv.ms/u/s!AifmGo6ZExbViJxFcKjKAXzrswyv_Q

Not wanting to tempt fates with the raging barbarian,  Tanique ran after the others

Xan was disappointed to not find horses.

She came back out and saw Sister Tanique running off and Thum hitting a bug.
She ran ahead of Thum a bit, "Thum enemies this way ! Fight like a Bear !"

She then ran following Tanique hoping there were indeed enemies left for Thum to strike and not her.

The others seemed to be focusing on the enemy dragonborn, so Prigs decided to point his efforts there as well. As he moved a bit closer, the enemies seemed to be preparing something, going for physical contact with each other. The dragonborn seemed to be in charge, assuring Prigs of his choice of target. Aiming with his right hand again, another green lightning bolt flew through the air.

OOC:

Move 30 feet towards enemies.

Hopefully I'm close enough that a range of 90 feet will reach.

Wrenn-Gimble 'Prigs' Burren rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  Lightning Launcher attack.

Too bad, no way that will hit.

Thum stopped smashing the dead bug and looked up as Xan ran by. With one final kick, he left the bugs and chased after the others.

OOC using Move as action, makes double move, 60'.

Peregrin continues his pursuit. When the trio slows down, he launches an arrow, but in his rush, he fails to set his feet and the arrow sails well over the enemies. After firing, rather than closing in, he maintains his distance around seventy feet from the dragonborn. He glances around for any bushes or rocks that will provide partial cover.

OOC: Attack: 8; attempt to find cover
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:31, Mon 12 Apr 2021.

Praelia, seeing her quarry in sight, continues her headlong charge.  As she moves she marks her prey, determined not to lose him again.


OOC:
Move/Action - Dash to close the distance.
Bonus Action - Hunter's Mark on the Dragonborn

Just as Praelia approached and peregrin fired his arrow, the dragonborn, with a coky smile, glared at Praelia. "Come find me....if you DARE."

as he spoke, a rumble on the ground could be felt as earth seemed to explode up around the three, obscuring them

Time seemed to freeze as the earth went up, then down, leaving a patch of tilled ground where stone stood.


...the three were gone.

the only thing other than a cold cam and a few meagre items, was an emerald that was shattered into three pieces.

Praelia roared as her prey vanished.  "If I dare?  IF I DARE?  I'm not the one running away you [Language unknown: onelesany thusom'ameday ughntewilateint]."

Calming slowly, she began turning around, trying to see if she could get a sense of which direction the dragonborn had fled.  Her mark should help her find him.


OOC: Trying to sense the location of my hunter's mark.

Naeldil stepped back, shielding her face with one hand until the worst of it was over. "That sure was... Different." The elf took a moment to glance behind them, check how things were with the monstrous bugs they had left behind. "Am I to understand that the one not disguised as a rock was an acquaintance fo yours?"

Thum comes running up yelling, "DON'T KILL THEM ALL! SAVE ONE FOR ME! I'LL HACK 'EM TO BITS!"

He stops and looks around a little confused. "Where are they?" He's still breathing heavily from the bug hacking and then sprinting here.

Finally jogs up and catches her breath, "Huh ?"

After the enemies disappear, Peregrin rubs his eyes and stares again. He approaches cautiously and looks around the area of disturbed ground, trying to think of what magic they may have used - and whether they indeed may be hiding just around the corner! He keeps an eye circling the area, very suspicious. He wonders what the dragonborn meant. Perhaps they do know one another.

OOC: Arcana: 11

Panting a little to catch her breath,  Tanique looked around in confusion
"How did they manage THAT???"

"The ground it came alive and ate them."

In reply to Xantria (msg # 65):

Tanique smiled
"a lovely thought,  but there's no way the ground would be that helpful to us"

Xan picks up the pieces of emerald, "There is a broken gem here."

Praelia finished her scan, trying to track her hunter's mark but quickly determined that it was uselss.  She sighed and turned to answer Naledil.

"Taranth, the green dragonborn is the reason I was sent here by my order.  He is an oathbreaker and a traitor and it is my sworn duty to bring him to justice, one way or another."

She snorted.  "You know, we were solid friends during our training.  When I was told he had sworn fealty to the Queen of Chaos I did not believe it.  I had hoped to clear his name, but it is clear now he has turned away from the God of Dragons.  He will die for his heresy."

"I have no idea who those people with him were, but one of them possessed the power of teleportation or some similar spell."

As she spoke an idea came to her.

"Could they still be here?  Perhaps a simple invisibility spell to listen to our plans?  Can any of you dispel or detect such magic?"


Investigation Check - 16 (searching for signs they might still be here

Sister Tanique shook her head sadly.
"Unfortunately, I've not the power to dispel another's enchantment."

Xan tried to sense for the tell tale signs of illusion magic.

Peregrin stares at the gem, but doesn't pick it up yet. Just to satisfy his curiosity, he picks up a handful of sand and throws it over the general area where the persons were previously standing. He is fairly certain that if they were still here, he would have had been whacked over the back of the head by now.

"I think they're gone," he says, stating the obvious.

Praelia likewise believed they were gone but continued her search.  She feverently hoped she was wrong and they had used simple illusion magic to conceal themselves.  If these enemies had the power of teleportation, even in its lesser forms, it suggested a magical power that would make them extremely difficult to overcome.

Naeldil couldn't make much sense of what Praelila said, but she gathered that this character was some kind of traitor and outlaw. "Well, whatever it was, they are gone now, or as good as. Would you say he was after you? Or was this just a happy coincidence? It seems to me that they were in some kind of association, quite fitting for miscreants and wretches to mingle with their ilk. even if they seem to like and trust each other as much as the rest of the world does them."

Them spit to the side. "So they are gone? No more fighting right now?"

He shrugged and started back to the bar to get a proper ale and food. He also liked watching Kaylessa work the tavern. "Let's go eat and drink, yeah?"

"They are gone. No illusion magic and this." She shows the fragments.

"This is kind of like a potion, it can only be used once that is probably why it broke after they used it. It has the trace of transportation magic on it. Like you said Praelia, probably teleportation. something this powerful would not just be given out to rank minions."

Tanique frowned and sighed
"That's impressive magic.  Who exactly are these people??"

The human that you followed, overtook and you assume is Commander Harburk caught up with the group. Though uninjured, you saw him stop and focus his effort on getting the one survivor to safety. He caught up and walked over. "I have you to thank for protecting the town....my thanks."

He looked back towards the Ankheg, then the group. "Kaylessa praise of you isn't falsely boasted...i have seen one of those beast tear three people apart, but from the looks, the only person hurt was your orcish warrior friend, who looks like he never even felt it."

He looked at the shards of the gem and sighed. "their gone...aren't they.  Seen that once before. What i assume a scouting team use them for quick retreats. From a source of mine, an expensive means but effective. The only other ive seen was in the hands of an orcish warrior wearing stone armor and a huge warhammer."

Despite being the likely conclusion, Praelia finished her search.  Just because something was likely, wasn't reason not to be thorough.  Ignoring any rhetorical comments, she instead responded to Naeldil as she continued her search.

"It is unlikely he was after me, I have only just commenced this mission to capture him a few weeks ago.  He had no reason to seek me, dount he even does now.  I need to learn more of these people he was with.  Though if they have access to such powerful magic, I may need to seek assistance from my order.  I am not foolish enough to think I am strong enough to take on someone who has the power to teleport people, even less for someone who can create such items."

The human heard the dragonborn speak and answered him. "I know who created the stones...and it wasn't them." He took a serious look as he crouched to the gems. "A few weeks back we had a visit from an old friend of the town....a talented and somewhat unusual creator of magical items. The fool gnome insisted traveling on his own. One such items was some gems he had enchanted for transportation. Four in total."

He picked up the gem shards and sighed. "He left town, but news came to us from a caravan of some battle. Lots of blood along the road about 4 hours south. I suspected they caught him or killed him and stole his gear."

He looked at the group. "With this one, thats two i know for sure that have been used. If any are left, it will have a maximum of two left. But the gnome had other magical items too. these groups - fits their motive. Some of them capture and enslave. Some just kill outright."

Tanique looked horrified on behalf of the gnome
"We simply must try to rescue him!"

"I agree with Sister Tanique to look for a kinsman."

Praelia looked confused.  "What leads you to believe this gnome was the focus of that battle?  If he had the power to teleport, why would he bother to move such a short distance?  Or was the gnome looking for something in particular?"

She didn't share the same concerns for the gnome the others did.  He was either dead or being kept for ransom or to make magical items.  If it was the latter he would not be too badly treated or he wouldn't be any use to them.

She turned back to Harbruk.  "Commander, do you know anything of those who attacked?  While I am hunting the dragonborn, his friends' armour seemed quite distinctive.  Is there anyone who may know of what group makes and wears such armour?  You spoke of an orc who wears similar armour?"

"Of course you would. But chances are you kinsman is already dead, you can seek retribution however. Not that I know why would you be inclined to." She was however more curious about something else the human said. "These groups? What exactly do you know about 'these groups' and their motives?"

The human looked at the group with a half smile. “I’ve been the law here for a few years now, and the last few months have changed things around here....tales of groups fighting people, as much travellers as each other. Fanatical is how some put them. Most common has been the ones in stone armour. Been seen observing from a distance mostly but sometimes attack. Others too....blue and green robed people and people that dress strange - carry shields and weapons that look like bone or shell, watching. Hostile fighters that set things aflame, scarred warriors and fire mages.....no, things have been changing here. Where they are is any bodies guess, but there are many ruins around.”

"Sir, where is the Sacred Stone Monastery ?"

Harburk Looks at the gnome with surprise. “Not something I’ve heard in a while. There’s several keeps in the sun bar hills, east of here. One was said to be haunted by a lunch a long time ago....supposedly some monks reclaimed it a few years back. Where it is I do not know exactly. In the hills, near the river is said. The monks never came down to town though”

"That is where we need to go." She said simply and looked to Sister Tanique to back her.

Peregrin follows the group back to the tavern and listens to the conversations. Being new in town, all of these people are unknown to him, but he's putting the pieces together. He turns to Priggs, "Fire mages? Perhaps more than one cult has come around here for some reason?" The matter is very intriguing.

He orders a crumblecake and an ale. All that running has made him hungry and thirsty both. This time, rather than sitting at the table, he holds the ale in his right hand and cake in his left while following the group of tall people, standing close and listening in on their conversations and politely offering to help, if asked.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:13, Sun 18 Apr 2021.

"Yes there was a flying cult we were dealing with hmm stone, fire, air probably water somewhere."

"Yes, I remember our run in with them"

Unlike several of the others, Praelia wasn't so ready to run off back to the tavern.  She continued her questioning of the Commander.

"So far Commander you're providing a lot of suggestions but no evidence to back them up.  You didn't answer my question about your supposition that the battle to the south involved your gnome friend.  You've not suggested why you think these ruins to the east are in any way linked to these soldiers in stone armour."

"I am here with a specific target in mind, that dragonborn who was speaking with the stone armoured men.  Added to which they threatened your town.  Do you actually have hard evidence linking these men to the ruins?  Is this the first time they approached your town?  Have you sent out any patrols to look for them?  Is there anyone here who actually knows the surrounding area?"

Praelia knew she wasn't being overly diplomatic but she didn't care.  She had just narrowly missed her quarry and to hear all these random comments with no clear links irked her already frayed temper.  She wasn't ready to run and hunt ruins, just because ruins existed.

The human looked at Praelia as he stood. “You think this is waterdeep or silverymoon? I have no contacts short of the people of this town and what they hear. I have no army....just a boy that’s barely a man who helps me. We are the guardians of the town. You want certainty, find answers. I’m not actively chasing ghosts when my charge is the town and safety of their people. No one has openly attacked us until now, and even this looks like two children at the wrong place and wrong time. The girl I saved said they were walking alone when they found those three. They ran towards town, but summoned the ankhegs.”

He turned and faced the Dragonborn. “Have I investigated the gnomes disappearance....no. I just go in word of others. Until today I thought it was not possible, but you speaking of magic transportation and a gem, and I thought of him. I don’t suspect these ruin are their place, but bandits have used them in the past. Make of it what you will”

The human turned, heading back towards town.

Praelia wasn't impressed.  The 'commander' of two clearly didn't bother using the resources at his disposal.  The dragonborn would have to seek her own information.

Deciding it was too late to talk to any of the multitude of people who would leave town - the woodsman, foragers, hunters, miners and farmers, she moved towards town.  Perhaps she could see if any of the group wanted to seek some useful information before randomly following the commander's directions, one who had stated he didn't pursue any leads outside the town outskirts.

But not tonight.  A meal and a rest first.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:35, Mon 19 Apr 2021.

Peregrin seems intrigued by the idea of cults of earth, wind, fire and water all being here at the same time. "It must mean something. Indeed! We have a little mystery on ours hands." He sits near Xantria and continues to listen, wondering why the dragonborn seems so rude to the locals. Soldiers could be that way, but it isn't hospitable. "Always the trees, never the forest," he thinks.

As the conversation settles, he wanders toward the kitchen, inquiring what hearty pastries may be available, should the group want to take some fresh provisions with them whenever they head out to investigate these ruins. While there, he attempts to make small talk with the staff, wondering what they think about the events of the day.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:21, Mon 19 Apr 2021.

Thum headed back to the tavern. He settled in at the large table where he first started this adventure. It felt like a long time ago. But to be honest, he has lost track of how long ago it was. "Kaylessa, some stew and ale too, please?"

He looked at the new comers who had added in their little fight they just had. "Welcome friends. Please join us for some food and drink. I am called Thum. You all fought and chased bravely.

"I have my own reasons for hunting down those stone warriors. What do you say? Shall we get the bastards?"

Xantria would escort Sister Tanique though she would tell Prigs and Peregrin, "Thank you very much for helping us. It is appreciated. Oh and Prigs your armor is amazing, I don't think I have ever seen magic quite like it."

Praelia was impressed by Thum's eloquent use of language.  It was the most words she'd heard him string together.  She regretted the fight had been over so quickly as she'd really hoped to see the orc in battle.

"While I have no direct interest in these stone armour wearing people, I believe they are the key to finding my quarry.  I would be honoured to join you in hunting them.  Would you be willing to share your reasons for hunting them Thum?  I will respect your privacy if you wish but feel trust is more easily given if we know each others motives."

This message was last edited by the player at 23:41, Mon 19 Apr 2021.

Thum shrugged. "I don't mind telling you all. warriors in stone armor attacked my clan while I was out hunting. I seek my revenge from them. If your paladin outcast is with them, just shows that much better how evil they are.

You are brave in battle and fight like a bear. I will stand with you as we hunt them down."

He smiled at Kaylessa as she brought his drink and food. "Thanks you so much."

Praelia raised her tankard to Thum in agreement.  She took a deep draw on the brew before returning it to the table with a sigh.

"My concern is what direction to follow.  From what little information the commander offered these soldiers have attacked all around.  He mentioned ruins but gave no clear indication of why he thinks our foes may be there.  Perhaps he just wants a problem area fixed for free while alluding it's linked to our problems."

"I plan to do some asking around.  If anyone is good at such banter I would welcome their help.  I have no desire to walk in the wrong direction for days when better information may be at hand.  The commander may be right, but no reason not to be sure.  Besides, the commander seemed to have no issue with that tower of air cultists on his doorstep.  He could even be in league with them or at lest helping them through his inaction."

She considered Thum.  "You seem to be friendly with our host here.  Might she know the right people to speak to?  Those who have ventured out of town for work who might know more about the surrounding area?"

"It definitely sounds like we have a common enemy "

"We need to go to the monastery that is where they are."

Praelia considered the gnome.  She recalled Xantria had been very specific in her questioning of the commander.  Clearly she knew something.

"You seem to know a lot about these soldiers and this monastery.  Could you tell us all what you know?  If you have some detailed information please share it."

"Last time we were in town one of our team members found a note in a room by one of these cults, it specifically detailed animosity between them as well as that Monastery being a place of one, just as that tower you were in was a place of one."

She then held her hand over the table producing a minor illusion of her team mate reading them the note:


Merosska,

     We are pleased to hear about the outcome of
     your altercation with the Black Earth cult,
     and we praise you for the capture of one of
     their prisoners. This noblewoman from
     Waterdeep has an interesting tale to tell, and
     we shall enjoy interrogating her further. Keep a
     close watch on the Sacred Stone Monastery. I
     want to know what our enemy is planning next.

     Your beloved queen,

     Aerisi Kalinoth


The illusion then fades

Praelia nodded.  "I can see your interest in finding the monastery now.  Excellent.  I still feel we need to try and gain more information as the commander did not know if the ruins are in anyway linked to this monastery.  Perhaps Thum could ask his barkeep friend if she knows any tales or of any who might have more information."

Thum didn't need an excuse to talk with Kaylessa. He could get lost in her eyes for days. Or watching her backside. Either way made him happy.

He took his ale with him as he walked over to the bar to talk with her more. With a smile he said, "Hi, there. Crazy stuff happening all over. Have you heard any rumors of a Stone Monastery or some ruins to the east? Anybody you know anybody who goes to the sun bar hills?"

"Things have been rather improvised, information has been scarce and sketchy at best when it comes to the various happenings that seem to plague this area as of late. It was by mere chance that we reached the tower where you were held."

Peregrin watches the illusion intently. What a fascinating morning.

Kaylessa smiled at the orc's flirtatious nature and smiled at him. "You, Thum, are incoragable. Let me get ye some food and drink and i'll be right over." She smiled as she went back into the kitchen, returning with a platter of meats warmed vegetables, gravy and rolls, as well as mugs of ale and glasses of wine.

The woman sat down next to Tanique and smiled. "You ask about crazy stuff here Thum....crazy stuff has been happening for years. these hills attract trouble from the time of the dwarven citadel. The hills themselves are called the haunted keeps. Many legends abound about it....an ancient dwarven kingdom, cursed lands, orcs, knights, drow…..I've heard them all."

"One that got some merchant dwarves real interested a few months back was some name....Besilmer. Never heard of them. Maybe some sage or something. All I know is the haunted keeps are to be part of some dwarven ruins. The only thing standing is the bridge. One group mentions some ruins, but that's it."

Sister Tanique paused in the act of sipping her drink and looked around, blinking as she remembered.
"You know, when Thalia and I were little girls, we used to come through here with my family, on route to family obligations or other business.  And I remember listening with rapt attention to the stories of the fascinating locals. "
She smiled, remembering simpler times.
"I remember hearing about that stone bridge.  An engineering marvel, really.  One that made humans everywhere awed, and a little jealous, of the dwarves who had made it long ago.
It was the name 'Besilmer' that jarred my memory, I think.  I remember reading about that place. An ancient dwarven kingdom.  One of the few that were above ground.  That bridge and a crumbling ruin, sadly, were all that was left.
There was a story I'd heard coming through here about a group of knights, known as the Knights of the Silver Horn, who were in this area around the year 893DR.  They had found a stronghold here and fought monsters and bandits, protecting the area for...I dunno, perhaps six years before a powerful orc army descended into the area and wiped them out."
Tanique blushed a bit.
"I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I had more than a few romantic ideas as a young girl about the Knights of the Silver Horn, coming to 'save me' from bandits and such.  Silly stuff, really, but very compelling."

Praelia listened intently to Tanique's story.  She was not from the area and had never heard of such a group.  She had heard of a few dwarven kingdoms but really hadn't focused on them.  She rarely found herself fighting dwarves.

"A most interesting tale.  It is entirely possible the ruins of this kingdom now serve as a base for those we seek.  It certainly seems a place to start.  Though I still want to gather more information about this group. . .and a certain commander." The last comment was said more quietly but Praelia was surprised she even said it out loud.  There was something she didn't like about the man but she didn't think anyone else shared her concern.

Tanique buys some drinks for a few locals, mentioning again her memories of the Knights of the Silver Horn, and then asks:

"And speaking of groups,  I've heard about a group of mysterious people wearing stone armor.    Has anyone heard anything of note about them?"

OOC: 03:25, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Investigation

Praelia stands and nods to Sister Tanique.  "I have no doubt you have enquiries here.  I'm going to ask some questions elsewhere.  Back in an hour or two."

The dragonborn heads out into the street.

Thum shrugged. He's figured the best way to find out about the dwarven ruins was to visit them and see for themselves. Not sure why the dragon lady not trust any body. Life was too short to go around hating everybody.

Thum was quick to fall in love, he has been in love with many women in his life. Often he was in love with more than one woman at once. But he was also quick to anger to fight for what he thought was right.

He was content to sit here in the bar eating and drinking while the others went and made talk-talk. He just wanted them to point him at something he could kill. Fighting was fun after all.

Xantria decided to see if she could find any dwarven gatherings in town as they tend to have long memories and may know about this kingdom.


08:51, Today: Xantria rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Investigation.

Addressing whoever remained there of their little gang, Naeldil shared her bit. "I know of that bridge, have been there actually. When the others come back and if it is agreeable to you lot, I could take you there. It is just about three days from here, maybe two at a good pace."

Peregrin's glances back and forth as the others talk. He mentally makes notes, especially regarding the directions.

"So, there it is," he says, slinging his backpack on and his bow over his shoulder, as if expecting everyone to march off right away.

The group, separate, doing their own things within town.





<OOC: Unless you meet back in the inn, we will move on to the next day and any decisions of what will be happening

PM

It was an hour, two at most when Praelia returned to the inn.  She checked the main room but as most of the team were absent, either out questioning or gone to bed, Praelia retired to her room.  Before going to bed she took the time to clean her weapons and armour.

In the morning, the dragonborn rose with the dawn and spent time saying her prayers to Bahamut.  Once complete she strapped on her armour, collected her weapons and gear and went downstairs to meet the other for breakfast.

Comes downstairs all tired and yawning.

Looking around she makes her way to Praelia's table.
"Good morning."

She orders a nice hearty yet Gnome sized breakfast.

Tanique came down to break her fast, looking smart and perky, and ready for the day

"Good morning,  all"

"I hope everyone rested well.  I imagine we will want to make a early and strong start to our journey.  Speaking of which, I shall need to arrange some trail rations.  What food I had was acquired by the cultists who captured me."

She did not mention they had got all her coin too, bar a small pouch with a few coins she usually kept for those in need.  Apparently she was the one in need today!

Kaylessa walked over with a serious look. " I know your sister left this morning lady Tanique.....returning home to your parents, but this was also left for you."

She looked at them all. "I'll bring breakfast out to you all soon....it's on me this meal. The lady you help save was my best friends niece. Thank you."

She disappeared into the kitchen.

Tanique opened the parchment and read.

Peregrin arrives at breakfast well-rested and stocked, ready for adventure.

"Well I might as well start.  I did some checking last night and the information I could gather corroborated with your existing information.  It seems the majority of sighting are coming from the east, towards the Haunted Hills.  I could find nothing to link the ruins to the cultists but its as good a guess as any right now."

Tanique thanked the server warmly and read the letters

"It's from Thalia,  and Bufrik.  She has decided to return home, and he's been summoned to help his clan with a war."

She sighed and nodded
"I shall miss them both, but they must be free to serve their own destinies,  i suppose "

Glancing at the dragonborn,  the cleric nodded more assertively
"That definitely sounds like a good idea.   Well done, my friend "

"Might as well then. Whenever you are ready, I can guide you to the bridge and we can take things from there. Will accomplish more than just sitting here, barring the latest incident."

"Bafruk.." Xantria pouted, "a war."

She shook her head slowly.

Thum came down the stairs to the common room. He was hung over from the night before. It wasn't his time eating breakfast while hung over and it wouldn't be his last.

"Morning everybody. Are we heading out today?" He walked to the bar to ask for some ale and fried eggs for breakfast.

"Bafruk is off to war, Thum.  I guess his clan needed him."

Xan is worried about her friend it is clear on her face.

Thum sat down slowly hearing Xan's news. "Brother warrior left? His clan will need him, he fights like a bear. I will miss him.  Is Thalia still made we burnt down that tower?"

"She is headed home and bringing the woman we all came for. Don't worry Thum, Sister Tanique and myself are staying with you." she smiled overcoming her worry for Barfruk knowing Thum was right that her dwarven friend's clan did need him.

"Yes, the bridge," Peregrin mutters, excited that Xantria seems to know where they want to go. He overhead Sister Tanique talking about it - a Dwarven bridge, no less. In his experience, Dwarven cuisine is often underrated. True, it could be bland, but it was especially hardy and tends to keep well. Of course, he doesn't expect to actually meet any Dwarves there, but one never knows what one may find in an ancient ruin.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:52, Mon 03 May 2021.

"Your coming with us Peregrin ? That will be nice is your friend coming along as well ?"

Peregrin looks to Prigs. "I hope so. We just met, but I believe he had some experience with a cult as well, a fire cult. It all sounds rather interesting. I suspect these are all connected somehow."

"There appears to be a clear connection.  It can't be a coincident to have all these elemental cults in such a close proximity.  The interesting question is what is there relationship to each other?  Are they just different branches of a central organisation or do they suggest opposing ideologies?"

"All these questions as well as getting to know each other can easily be explored while we walk.  It's a fair journey to the ruins.  We should probably get started."

Sister Tanique nodded
"From what little interaction we had with the stone people,  it felt like they were rivals,  but i might have been misreading them.   Yes, let us depart as soon as possible "

"They fight one another, remember the graves ? Where Thum got the ax ? They clashed in battle with one another so I think they don't get along."

"Maybe there is something in the valley that draws them here? Some old gods of the elementals.

"I agree, let's get going and we can talk on the way."

Thum stands up shoulders his back and gives the tavern owner a wink before heading out.

"It's settled then.  We head east towards the Haunted Hills and the ruins."

She pauses and considers.  "What about rations?  I have three, maybe four days of food for myself.  According to my investigations it will take us several days, at least two to reach the hills.  Should we take more supplies or do we have skilled hunters and foragers in our group?"

Tanique bit her lip and nodded thoughtfully
"It might be a good idea to stock up on supplies,  certainly "

Praelia lowered her eyes.  "I'm ashamed to admit it but if supplies are to be purchased I must rely on the generosity of others.  The cultists took what coin I had.  I am happy to make reparations later."

Naeldil held a hand  out to Praelia. "Trouble yourself not with coin, your expenses are covered. If everyone here is ready, lets get whatever you deem necessary for the journey and be on our way. The round trip is just about a handful of days, barring whatever length of time we spend there. Just a nice little excursion if you ask me."

Peregrin wanders back and forth between the group talking, listening and trying to determine which way they are going, presumably all together.  His pack his prepared.  He has a rudimentary map of the area but nothing that would show the places of interest being discussed.

Praelia bows in acknowledgement of Naeldil's generosity.  "I think we should probably carry a week worth of rations to allow for the journey and a few days exploring the hills.  We don't know how hard it will be to find these guys."

"Let's just go. Get food then go east. Find little stone warriors, kill them."

Xantria gets up and will buys the two weeks provisions and a canteen of clean water.
She will then happily follow the others alongside Sister Tanique.

Tanique will also gather two weeks of provisions, if possible

With the decision made, the group get up to leave, peregrine noting the armoured gnome he came with was missing. Shrugging, the halfling followed the new group into town.

The group (other than Praelia and peregrin), familiar with the town, find their way to several shops. The first, Lorren’s Bakery gives you a good deal on several loaves of bread that will last the next two days, as well as cheese topped buns for each of you. A few doors down is a butcher run by a woman named Jalessa Ornra. The woman, after some haggling, gives the group enough meat for a ten day, both fresh meat that would last 2-3 days, and dried and salted meat afterwards.

The final stop is Vallivoe’s Sundries, a store owned by a former caravan merchant that has pretty much some of most common things. Between the three stores, you manage to gather rations enough for everyone for 10 days.

With shopping done, the group head for the edge of town towards t(e east....heading for the hills.

<OOC: we have lost our artificer, but even with him gone we still have a well rounded party

I would like anyone skilled in survival to make two checks. Everyone make two perception checks. Once I have the results, a new thread will be opening and the next stage on its way.>

When the group moves out, Praelia stays in the main group.  She leaves the scout types to roam to their front and flanks.  She was never good at scouting and her use of chain mail and polearm weaponry had not helped.  She did offer to carry extra supplies for those who did scout to lighten their loads if needed.

Perception 1 - 10
Perception 2 - 22
Not proficient in survival
This message was last edited by the player at 04:12, Mon 10 May 2021.

Happy with their supplies, Tanique was nonetheless sad to leave the comforts of civilization as they headed out into the wild again.

She smiled cheerfully,  though,  excited despite everything at the adventure they were all sharing
She'd only read about outdoor survival in books, but contributed where she could

OOC: 20:27, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  Perception .
20:27, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Perception
20:49, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Survival .
20:48, Today: Sister Tanique rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Survival





This message was last edited by the player at 01:50, Mon 10 May 2021.

Happy to be off on another adventure, as he often does, Peregrin wanders out in front of the group, attempting to survey the landscape, identify any potential ambushes, and guide the group towards their destination.

OOC:
20:38, Today: Peregrin Boffinbread rolled 17 using 1d20+2.  Perception.
20:38, Today: Peregrin Boffinbread rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Perception.
20:38, Today: Peregrin Boffinbread rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  Survival.
20:38, Today: Peregrin Boffinbread rolled 20 using 1d20+2.  Survival.

Xantria trundled along taking in the scenery and keeping an eye out for vultures or shakey ground and big bugs.


19:46, Today: Xantria rolled 17 using 1d20.  Perception.

19:46, Today: Xantria rolled 4 using 1d20.  Perception.

Once more on the road, the elf didn't seem too concerned, somehow the whole trek with the group struck Naeldil as a sight seeing journey with her both as part and guide for it. Not that it was too far from the truth but one was ought to be more wary with at the very least, the whole remainder of flying cultists having a life long grudge against them. Yet she looked as carefree as they came, always open for idle and pointless chatter and trivia of things along the road.

11:10, Today: Naeldil rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  Survival 1.
11:10, Today: Naeldil rolled 14 using 1d20+3.  Survival 2.
11:09, Today: Naeldil rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Perception 1.
11:09, Today: Naeldil rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  Perception 2.

Feeling more confident out of the village, Thum took to the outdoors easily.

OOC
08:44, Today: Thum rolled 7 using 1d20+3.  perception 2.
08:44, Today: Thum rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Perception 1.
08:44, Today: Thum rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  survival 2.
08:43, Today: Thum rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Survival 1.