The archway was carved into a fanged ogre mouth. When Fiene and Ermangard passed though the mouth they found murals of cavorting imps painted on the walls beyond. Thirty foot further on the paintings ended as they stepped through another archway which resembled another ogre mouth. At this point they had reached a crossroads.

The corridor north went thirty foot into darkness. To the west the corridor changed from worked stone to a natural cave. To the east it went ten foot before opening into a room. In the middle of the intersection was a rusted metal signpost. On the signpost an arrow pointed west and read "Da' Dragon's Den.".

"Don't think it's a real dragon?" Fiene comments, shining the light to the west.  "But let's find out."  He starts down the natural caves, letting the lantern light flit from wall to floor to ceiling and back.

To the west the worked stone corridor ended this was a natural cave. The walls, floor and ceiling were uneven flowstone. Fiene and Ermangard entered a larger cave with exits north and south. To the north they heard the chittering of bats and then from the same direction came a band of seven small hairless humanoids with scaly, rust coloured skin. Each of the kobolds carried a bucket. They were as surprised to see Fiene and Ermangard as they were to see them.



OOC Both sides were surprised. What's your actions?

Fiene takes a step back, and adjust his lantern to shine over their heads.  "Is this the dragon's den?" he says in slow spoken common.  They were outnumbered, and even a half dozen kobolds could be trouble for the pair.

The scaly-skinned little ones held their ground but looked around with some uncertainty as Fiene addressed them.

They barked and yapped amongst themselves briefly before one of them spoke in broken common "da dragon da way" they pointed to the other exit and waited for Fiene to go that way as they tried to shuffle toward the east exit with their buckets.

"Is it a real dragon?" he asks, stepping a bit to the side to let them pass.  "We are looking for gold."

With a bit more room the kobolds hurried to leave. At Fiene's question the kobold nodded "da dragon" and pointed for them to follow the cave westward. At the mention of gold the kobold smiled their sharp teeth showing "come spend da gold at Korners" and pointed south east before they rushed out of the cave.

"Korners?" Fiene says to Ermangard, looking at the buckets the kobolds were carrying.  "A shop or inn down here?"  He shines the light into the northern cavern.

She did not know what the kobolds were talking about so Ermangard shrugged her shoulders at Fiene's enquiry. A peek at the northern exit revealed a cave of stalactites and stalagmites accompanied by the chittering of bats.

Fiene continued searching to the southwest passage, first with the lantern, then walking a bit.

The exit in the southwest forked into two tunnels, one west and one south. From the south tunnel Fiene heard a whistling sound.

"Do dragons whistle?" He ponders aloud.  "Let's follow the right wall, so we don't get lost." he explains, venturing slowing and cautiously into the western corridor.  He keeps shining the lantern light all around, not sure where a dragon might be hiding.

The tunnel led the pair west for thirty foot before it turned sharply north before opening into a cave. The cave was roughly circular about thirty foot wide with a pool of water in the north west.

Around the pool was the glitter of shiny things some recognisable as coins. Nearby to the coins was a five foot long wingless reptile. The eyes of the reptile watched the approach of Fiene and Ermangard with curiosity.

"That doesn't look like I thought dragons looked.". Fiene says to Ermangard.  He doesn't make any aggressive moves, since it hasn't attacked them yet.  "I don't think it's a real dragon. But my spell won't work on animals in any case." he confessed.

He scans the dragons horde for gold or jewels that might make taking on such a beast worth the risks.  "Do you think you can kill it?" he asks.

Whatever it was it was fairly large, big enough that it's bite we could be fatal. Ermangard shook her head "it took a lot more of us to defeat a beetle half the size of that" she answered dejectedly, defeating a dragon would be proof of her courage as a warrior but could as easily get her killed.

Da dragon was unperturbed by being examined but kept it's eyes on the pair of adventurers. It was hard to distinguish much of its hoard from this distance but a longer look did reveal it as rather meagre, it was tens of coins not hundreds. Fiene did spot a circlet amongst the coins.

"That crown may be gold." he says "But I am no warrior.  We can say we've seen Da Dragon, perhaps will come back better armed.  For now let's see what whistles.". Fiene backs out of the cavern and starts south.

Da Dragon watched them as they exited the cave and left it in darkness. Fiene led them toward the whistling sound. In the middle of the cave was a stone well. The whistling sound came from the well. The ceiling was wet and dripping.



OOC

Day: 3. Time: 11:10am. Turn: 13. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 10 Turns - lit

Fiene approaches the well's edge, staring down into the depths.  He pulls two silver coins.  Offering one to Ermangard, he drops the other into the well. "Make a wish." he says excitedly.

Willingly Ermangard accepted the offer of a silver penny and dropped it into the well. Both coins dropped downward but no splash of water or clink of metal on stone was heard, rather a hushed thud of hitting something soft below. Measuring the fall the thud was heard on the count of two after letting the coin drop.

"Maybe it's not a well after all." Fiene speculates.  "Surely there are lower levels to stonehell.  Perhaps this is a shaft to allow fresh air below. It might explain the whistling."  Having no intention to go deeper yet, he leaves the mystery for now, and heads to the western passage.

The tunnel led to a larger cave. The cave was forty foot by thirty foot. The ceiling dripped with water. Phosphorescent mosses grew on the walls. There was an exit in the south that returned to the worked limestone blocks and flagstones of Stonehell dungeon.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 11:20am. Turn: 13. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 11 Turns - lit

"Curious." Fiene intones.  "When we were kids. we used to smash lightning bugs on our face to make it glow.  I wonder if this is similar.". Leaning his pole against the wall, he uses a dagger and tries to scrape a bit of the moss into a small sack for later study.

A sampling of the greenish glowing moss was successfully taken by Fiene scraping the walls with his dagger.

"Back to stonehell it seems.". Fiene directs, tapping the floor ahead of them in case there is another pit.  They exit the cave to the south.

Out of the cave the passageway led to a cross roads. To the west was a thirty foot by thirty foot room with cracked walls and ceilings. To the east the corridor ended in a door thirty foot away. Ten foot to the south was stone double doors with worn out inscriptions.

"Unless I'm completely turned around from the cave," Fiene explains, "East may lead us back towards the stairs.  it would be good to know a second route out. "

He moves towards the eastern door, checking the floor for hollow taps as he goes.  He will stop and listen and if quiet, opens the door.

There was no sound behind the door but it was stuck and unwilling to open for Fiene. A hefty push from Ermangard successfully got the door to open. Beyond the door was a thirty by thirty foot room. There was another door in the south wall. In the room was a dry stone fountain adorned with a statue of a leaping fish.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 11:40am. Turn: 15. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 13 Turns - lit

"I don't think I would drink from it, even if it worked.". Fiene says walking around the fountain widdershins.  He looked for any lose stones around the base that might hide a secret compartment. Or if any coins lay in the bottom of it. "It practically screams don't drink me I'm poison doesn't it?  Or a green slime like the kitchen.  It's probably a good choice to assume everything is trying to kill us."

Fiene stops for a moment, look at Ermangard intently, then says "It may seem a conflict, given you were hired to protect me, but if I do happen to perish, unintentionally, of course.". He pauses for breath. "You may have my things.  The cloak is very valuable, and I've paid for a week at the inn.  My room key is with me, you don't have to worry about ceremony, and can just leave me where I lay.  Although it has been told to me that whomever is slain in the dungeon, be rises as an undead monster, so I maybe that is not the best option.  Of course if I'm dead, I won't care, will I?". He waves his hand dismissively.  "Best not to think on it."

If there is nothing valuable found. He will try the south door
This message was last edited by the player at 22:34, Fri 02 Apr 2021.

Cautious to walk around the dry fountain without touching it Fiene spotted nothing amiss. As Fiene declared his intentions in case he died Ermangard was emotional and teary "nay master Fiene, don't talk of such things lest the fates hear you. We shall both see daylight and feast on Lorna's baked apple pie again" she replied encouragingly.

The south door opened willing for Fiene, it led the pair to corridor with a lowered and rusty portcullis midway on the eastern side and a door to the south. Through the portcullis was a room with skeletal remains and old blood stains on the floor.

"It does connect back to the entrance." Fiene confirms, "though the bones said we would meet our doom.  I would risk it, if we were being chased."

He checks the floor on the way to the south door, listens and opens it if quiet.

There was no sound at the door and Fiene was able to open the heavy iron bound timbered door. The room was twenty foot by thirty foot. On the wall opposite the door was a great stone dial adorned with glyphs. The glyphs were in the image of smiling and frowning faces.

There was no other entranceways or doors in the room.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 12:00am. Turn: 17. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 15 Turns - lit

"Some kind of puzzle?" He wonders aloud as he inspects the dial closer. Can the glyphs be manipulated?

The stone dial had a handle so that the dial can be spun around. The glyphs were carved into the stone so could not be manipulated.

Fiene grabs the handle and spins the dial.

Despite it's age the wheel spun easily, however the aged bearings made a loud clamour as it spun around and around.

OOC Roll a d6 and a d10.

Fiene watches the wheel go round, with a grimace at the noise.

15:42, Today: Fiene rolled 1,7 using 1d6,1d10.

The wheel loudly clanked and grinded until it slowed and came to rest. The faded and worn glyph at the top when it came to rest was a smiling one, however there was no noticeable change in the room or felt by Fiene.

"Well." Fiene says, wondering what was the meaning of it all.  "at least someone is smiling."

He backtracks to the intersection by the caves.

The journey back to the intersection was delayed by the stubborn to open doors inbetween. Fiene and Ermangard wrestled with them and eventually returned to the crossroads.

To the north was the cave of phosphorescent moss, to the south a pair of stone doors, to the east a crumbling chamber.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 12:10am. Turn: 18. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 16 Turns - lit

Fiene moves to inspect the southern doors, he looks closely and runs his fingers over the worn out script, trying to read it, before listening and if quiet, opening it.

Fiene examined the stone door but the inscriptions were too worn to be readable. Fiene did in his searching find a keyhole in the door. He put an ear to the door and heard no noise through the stone. When he tried to open the door he discovered that it was locked.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 12:20am. Turn: 19. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 17 Turns - lit

Fiene shrugs.  "I have no skill with locks."  he says.  "and I don't think trying to batter it down would be a good."  Stymied by the lock, Fiene moves to the east, stopping well short of the unstable walls while trying determining if it is safe.

The stone doors were indeed very sturdy looking and Ermangard gave a nod of agreement. The wooden doors in the dungeon were stubborn and required effort to open she didn't fancy trying to force open a locked stone door.

They went west and entered the crumbling chamber, the walls and ceiling of the chamber were cracked. Within the cracks were seen white mineral deposits.

Corridors led out of the chamber to the north and south.

Not wanting to get hurt by falling debris, if the ceiling gives. Fiene moves quickly south. He wonders what the white deposits might be.  Mining for ore was not something he had considered doing, but if there was enough value there, he might be willing to come back with a pick axe.

He checks the floor as he moves south.

Carefully not to stay too long in the crumbling chamber Fiene led onward. In the southern corridor there was a large alcove to the west. In the alcove was a statue. The statue was of a large bipedal lizard with four arms and a nose horn. Stone fragments lay on the floor around the statue. At the feet of the statue was a large bowl full to the brim with silver coins, hundreds of them.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 12:30am. Turn: 20. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 18 Turns - lit

Fiene smiles. "Money or magic." he says happily.  "But I bet if you grab the bowl. the statue animates and grabs you.  Everything is a trap you know."

He ponders for a while.  "If there is enough space. We could loop a rope around and pull the bowl from a safe distance well out of it's reach.  Or perhaps push the bowl with away the pole." . He sits his pack down and digs out his rope. "Maybe both.  I pull and you push?  Do you think there is enough room between the statue and the bowl to drop the rope?" he asks Ermangard.

There was space between the statue and the bowl to loop the rope over.

OOC Give me some details and I'll adjudicate the outcome. Who has the rope? Who has the pole? Whereabouts is Fiene? Where is Ermengard?

Fiene will loop the rope around the bowl, and let Ermangard be in the south corridor to pull it.  Fiene will be on the north with the pole to help guide the bowl of it gets stuck.  Not knowing how long the stairs arms can reach. He will keep as much distance as he can.

OOC The statue and bowl are at the back of the alcove, over ten foot from the corridor. So if Fiene is positioned in the corridor he will not be able to reach the bowl or statue with his pole. His position will allow him to watch only, to react he will need move forward into the alcove if something happens. If you're happy with that let me know.

Works for me.

The rope set up and Fiene out of the way with his pole at the ready Ermengard pulled the rope.

As the bowl moved an avalanche of stones fell from the ceiling in the alcove. In seconds the floor within the alcove was covered in more stones. The rope, bowl and coins trapped beneath the stones.

Neither Fiene or Ermengard were harmed by the falling rocks.

Fiene coughs to clear his throat and calls through the dust cloud."Are you okay?  That was not what I expected, but I'm glad we went under it."

He scrambles over to Ermangard's side of the pile.  "Be ready. Something may have heard that and come to see what it was. I'll see if I can get any coins.". Fiene tries to follow the rope moving stones that he can. If it's no use, he will cut the rope to keep as much as he can.

The falling stone had made a loud noise but when the dust had settled there was no sign of anything approaching them to investigate. Ermengard took note of Fiene's warning and readied her spear "aye it was frightening but I'm unhurt" she responded to his enquiry regarding her health.

Fiene followed the rope, moving aside the rubble until he reached the bowl. He was on his knees and covered his dust by the time he found the silver. The bowl had been disturbed and the silver scattered. To gather it all together took time. In total he found four hundred silver coins. The statue remained motionless and no further stones fell from the sky.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 12:50am. Turn: 22. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 40'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 20 Turns - lit

"At least we have some coin to show for the effort.". He says, brushing himself off a bit, then giving up on getting clean.    He collects his rope and pole, stashing the coin, bowl and all, in a sack in his bag and coils the rope on top of it.  He takes the handy pole and says "We will see where south leads.". He taps the floor, listening for hollows as they walk.

The silver coins and the bowl taken Fiene's pack was full. The passageway south was kinked but continued south. It ended in an octagonal room. Rotted barrels and rusty buckets lay strewn about. In the middle of the room was a cistern filled with water. The water in the cistern was clear and appeared to be about five foot deep.



OOC A backpack holds 400 and a sack 200. General gear is 80 + the 400 silver = 480 so Fiene will have to carry some stuff in his sack. So he doesn't have enough hands to carry a sack, a lantern and a pole. Ermengard has a spare hand as she is only carrying a spear. So she can help by carrying either the sack, lantern or pole. Let me know which you choose. Also as Fiene will be carrying more than 400 his movement speed will decrease.

Day: 3. Time: 1:00pm. Turn: 23. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 21 Turns - lit

Ever suspicious, Fiene eyes the water nervously.  Setting his things down, he touches the water with his pole, in case there is some monster waiting in it.    He will test the water that drips from his pole and hope nothing bad happens.

"This seems a safe place to eat, my stomach is saying its after lunch." He takes some rations from his pack and offers some to Ermangard. "The water seemed like water, I suppose the creatures that live here have to drink too.  Which means we probably shouldn't waste too much time."

While they eat, he cuts a short section of rope, and ties off the sack, making it into a sort of a sling bag for Ermangard.  They fill their waterskins, and get ready to go north.

ooc: 200 coins in the sack for Ermangard, the balance of the weight in his pack.  Lantern and Pole in hand.  Should leave Ermangard two hands for her spear.

Upon testing the water proved to be just that, clean potable water. With only one entrance Fiene and Ermengard could rest and watch for any unwanted visitors.

Nothing intruded on their meal and a makeshift bag was made for Ermengard so that she could help carry the treasure.

After their rest Fiene led them north. They passed the lizard statue, through the crumbling chamber and came to a long corridor north. Fifty foot north from the crumbling chamber there was a door in the east wall, the corridor carried on northward into darkness.

Fiene stops at the door, listens, and if quiet opens it.

There was no sound heard behind the door. The doors was especially stubborn and took a lot of beating before it opened.

When the door relented to open inside was a twenty foot by twenty foot room. Shelves lined the walls. The shelves and floor was cluttered with mounds of old gear and supplies.

Day: 3. Time: 1:20pm. Turn: 25. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 23 Turns - lit

Fiene smiles.  "This could be promising.". He sets his pack to hold the door open, and the pole across the threshold in case the bag slips. "Ermangard, can you keep watch and I'll see what I can find?. He starts searching though stuff and remarks to himself. "I need to get some good leather gloves, This is hard on my hands.  This is probably where they put the stuff of people who died."

The door propped open Ermengard stood watch over the passageway as Fiene rooted through the many mounds of supplies and equipment. Many bits were broken or worn down to uselessly. Fiene spent ten minutes rummaging but in that time he found naught that was either useful or valuable.

"Nothing yet." He says trying to tell if it was worth keeping searching  "I'll keep looking for a bit. But if I find toxic mold, stay back."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:17, Wed 07 Apr 2021.

The room was crammed with stuff there was lots to search through. Fiene spent time looking. He found no slime, ooze or mould. He also didn't find anything interesting or of value.

Ermengard did not see or hear anything outside in the corridor.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 1:40pm. Turn: 27. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 25 Turns - lit

"I'm thinking there's nothing here." Fiene says.   He'll spend a few more minutes, then give up.

A last shuffle through the assorted mounds of gear brought up nothing of interested. Nothing had happened in the north-south corridor.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 1:50pm. Turn: 28. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 26 Turns - lit

"There's nothing good here." Fiene admits. He recovers his gear and sets out north, tapping the floor with his pole.

Fiene walked north forty foot from the door when his pole tapping elicited a hollow sound rather than the typical clacking sound.

Fiene raises his hand to stop Ermangard. "I think there might be another pit here." he taps the floor again to confirm.  "If it's like the other, we should be safe to skirt the edge."

He puts his pack on the ground and tires the rope to it.  He tosses the end to the other side and presses himself against wall and sidesteps over where the pit should be.  Then pulls his pack over.  He then helps Ermangard do the same.

With care the pair crossed over the suspected pit trap and reached a corner. Around the corner they saw a room filled with nine kobolds.



OOC Roll for surprise! The kobolds are not surprised.

Day: 3. Time: 2:00pm. Turn: 29. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 27 Turns - lit

12:22, Today: Fiene rolled 6 using 1d6

If it's easier. I have no preference with you rolling checks like that.

The scaly kobolds were at the edge of Fiene's lantern light. Their wicked little eyes shined in the darkness as they stared at Fiene and Ermengard.

OOC I did consider rolling but thought I'd leave it for you. I'll roll it next time.

Neither side is surprised, so it's declaration for all actions then I'll roll Initiatives for both sides then I'll sum up.

"Where is Korners?" Fiene says, unsure if these were the same kobolds they saw before.  He hopes this group was not aggressive, like the others in the bat cave.  He tried to tell if one was a leader.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:04, Thu 08 Apr 2021.

The kobolds stuck to the edges of Fiene's lantern light. They eyed up Ermengard and Fiene. When Fiene spoke one of the kobolds took a step forward, he waved his hand about a bit unsure then pointed to the south east "see Sniv" he replied.

He then pointed west "you go, we stay" whilst the kobold talked Fiene got to see more of the room ahead. The room was thirty foot by thirty foot, carved into the walls were ten foot tall human faces with oversized eyes.

ooc: pointed west? back the way we came from?

"Sniv? Does he own the store?" Fiene asks, shining the lantern on one of the faces. "Did you make those? Very imposing." he adds, nodding to Ermangard to agree.

"Sniv own Korners" the kobold nodded and pointed east again "you go" the kobolds did not seem to have any plans to leave the room.

"Yes we work" the kobold nodded again, it was quiet but Fiene could hear the sound of tapping of tools further east in the darkness.

Ermengard not liking the odds of fighting this many kobolds nodded enthusiastically when prompted.

OOC Yes the kobold is pointing back the way you came from, it seems he's suggesting you leave.

"Do kobolds do all the work?  It must be hard." he says. "We met some getting guano. They told us about Korners.  Can we go that way?" he points east.  "I don't want to see the dragon again if we have to go back.  We won't bother your hard work. Just pass through, can we get out that way?". Fiene can be quite charming, ooc if you're rolling reactions. Fiene has a 17 CHAeven without magic, but freaking with kobolds wasn't common in he hopes flattery worked.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:45, Thu 08 Apr 2021.

"Clever stay away from da dragon"

"Busy" the kobold nodded "very busy, no way through" he then shook his head at the request to pass through, putting his hand up to stop Fiene.

Fiene was indeed charming and kobolds weren't inclined to cause harm to him but weren't quite willing to do favours for free either.

"Do you build the traps too?" he asks, reaching into his pouch.  "I think there was a pit back there.  Praise Ras, we didn't fall in, but I did find these nearby.". He holds out 3 silver coins, letting them reflect in the lantern's light.  "I would hate to have to go back that way and fall in if you have to fix it."

The glint of silver received a hissed murmur from the kobolds. The lead kobold rubbed his scaly chin and waved a hand at the other eight kobolds and pointed behind him to where the sound of industry and work could be heard and then held up all his fingers "lots of us" he nodded eagerly "more silver for passage?" the kobolds seemed agreeable to negotiation.

Fiene pauses, tilting his head slightly..  "That way is clear? not a dead end?". He digs out 6 more silver, offering 2 for the leader and one for the rest.

"Yes I let you pass" the kobold agreed, it waved to the kobolds who moved to one side of the chamber to allow exit through the east corridor. The kobold then came forward his scaly hand outstretched to receive the silver pennies "work crew" he pointed toward the noise of hammers to the east "you have silver to pay foreman?"

ooc: I'm confused.  Are there two groups of kobolds?

There are the kobolds you can see and are talking to. There is also the noise of hammering and work further to east.

Fiene eyes the greedy little bugger.  "Some." he says dropping the coins into its palm.  "How many work?  You take me. You talk, tell him to let us go past. I give one to each." he directs, gesturing with his lantern.

ooc: Ah, I thought the noise was coming from the 8 here and he could only see the one talking clearly..

With a greedy little smile the kobold nodded "I speak to foreman for silver penny and you pay work crew one penny each" he held up all his fingers "many work crew" Fiene could hear the hammering and other noises of the work crew.

The kobold led Fiene through the room of faces with big eyes and into room of ten foot tall faces with open mouths. A crew of eight kobolds were busy fixing cracked mortar around the faces and in the gaping mouths, whilst two other kobolds watched. The two watchers stood nearby to the two entrances to the room. The kobold barked and hissed as he entered the room and one of the watchers came forward with hand outstretched to Fiene.

Ermengard followed cautiously, her fear showing clearly on her face. They were surrounded and greatly outnumbered if anything went wrong with the plan.

Fiene was fairly certain he was being taken advantage of, and this was likely more money than they normal saw.  He wished he understood kobold rather than orc, but they was nothing he could do about it now.  "You work hard. I give pennies, we go, you stay, work hard.". Once they reach the eastern corridor. He doles out the requisite pennies.

The chambers of tall carved faces passed Fiene returned to the rough limestone corridors of Stonehell. The corridor south had a door in it. The corridor east carried on into darkness.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 2:10pm. Turn: 30. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 28 Turns - lit

"Let's go south, and see if it leads to the stairway." Fiene says, "Then we can come back this way, and see about these rooms."

To the south passed the door Ermengard and Fiene came to the crossroads with the rusty metal signpost 'Da Dragon's Den'.

Satisfied that they are not lost, and able to make their way back to the surface, Fiene moves to the eastern door, and listens at it in the usual way.

There was nothing heard through the door, when Fiene opened the door the first thing he noticed was the smell. The smell of death, linens and chemicals. What he saw was a room twenty foot by twenty foot. Hung from hooks in the ceiling were fresh humanoids corpse wrapped in cloths, the floor wet with water streaked with blood.

Further back in the room Fiene spotted the beady eyes of ten giant rats which chittered in response to the opening of the door. On the inside of the were signs of chewing.

OOC No one is surprised. Declare your actions and I will roll Initiative for both sides.

Day: 3. Time: 2:20pm. Turn: 31. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - lit
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:31, Sun 11 Apr 2021.

Fiene drops his pole, and digs for a flask of oil.  He wasn't sure how aggressive the rats would be, and perhaps, after seeing the door, they just wanted out. He makes sure to stand clear of the doorway.

The rats either hungry or desperate for freedom were quicker than Fiene and rushed toward the door. Sharp pointed teeth bit at Ermengard's legs as her and Fiene stood in the doorway. Instinctively Ermengard stabbed down with her spear but neither rats teeth or spear inflicted any wounds.

OOC Fiene has his oil flask in his hand. He can move and perform an action.

"Make clear!" Fiene calls, backing even further clear of the door. "I think they just want out." He said hopefully, now that they have started to scatter and his oil would be less effective.

OOC The giant rats are still in a swarm at the door. They haven't scattered yet if Fiene wanted to do something to a group of them.

If you are moving which direction? Are you backing against the wall or running north or south? He can move and drop/pour the oil.

ooc: I'm assuming the door swings out (since he was able to see chew marks). if they seem to be attacking, He will throw the oil into the middle of them. Following up with the lantern next round.

But is they seem to be running. He will move whichever way the door swings to try and be behind it.(against the east wall)

The rats were scrambling at the doorway, those at the front biting at Ermengard those behind climbing upon each other to get at the two adventurers or out of the room.

Fiene was able to pour out and splash the swarm with oil. Then a moment later he tossed the lantern into the midst of the rat swarm. Four of the giant rats died in the flaming oil. The remaining rats scattered in fear of the flames, retreating to the darker corners of the room.

OOC Yes the door swings out.

As you have already declared actions I completed the next round too. Fiene won Initiative and threw the lantern.

Fiene grabs his pole and works to drag the lantern clear of the fire.  Once out, he pushed the door closed.

The lantern was still in one piece when Fiene fished it from the fire with his pole. The pole was singed on one end. The rats afraid of the fire kept to the dark corners of the room and Fiene shut the door.

Fiene let the lantern cool enough to touch, and checked to see if it was still safe to use. "I doubt there was anything in there worth opening the door again for." He says.

If the lantern is good, he will check its supply and fill it with oil as needed, and they will head north then to the east passage.

If it's not good, they will go south to the stairs, intent on returning to town to rest and resupply.

The lantern seemed intact and whole with no leaks. Fiene refilled the lantern. The passage headed east and another corridor headed south.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 2:40pm. Turn: 33. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 1 Turn - lit

"The south passage likely leads back to the crossroads sign." Fiene speculates. "Though perhaps not directly.  Let's go East for now. He checks the floor as they go, realizing he will likely need a New pole before the return.

The pole wasn't going to last forever but a broken pole was better than a broken adventurer. The corridor ended in a door.

Fiene listens then opens the door if determined safe.

There was nothing heard at the door and as usual the door was stubborn but Fiene managed to push it open.

The door opened into a large room that smelt of mildrew. The room was thirty foot by fifty foot. Inside the room was smashed bunks and mouldy furniture.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 3:00pm. Turn: 35. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 3 Turn - lit

Fiene uses his pole to sift through the broken furniture, to avoid lice, if not something more sinister.

If he finds nothing of interest he will move south and check that door that faced west.  Opening it if quiet.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:36, Tue 13 Apr 2021.

A search around the old dormitory revealed nothing of value but mouldy broken furniture. Fiene returned to the corridor to the south. Fiene listened carefully but heard nothing at the door but he did heard approaching footsteps from the east corridor to the south.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 3:20pm. Turn: 37. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 5 Turns - lit

Fiene turns the lantern so it isn't shining directly down the south and might give them a moments upper hand.  "Hold." he says softly. "It might be the others, but if not, it might take a charm spell, or a bribe."

He waits quietly to see who it what the boots belong to.

Crouched by the door Fiene shielded the light from the lantern and waited to see what was coming. Fiene heard the familiar sound of orcish being spoken, they were talking about visiting Rocky the oracle. Four orcs turned the corner and headed north toward Fiene but they seemed surprised to see Fiene and Ermengard there.

OOC The orcs are surprised. Fiene is not surprised. So Fiene has a Surprise round action.

Fiene quickly selects the one that looks to be the leader, and summons the magic of charm spell.  "Well, Hello friend!" he says in the orcish tongue.  "I didn't expect you here, we were just looking for the oracle. While we were on our way to recover my stolen crown."

One of the orc's wore a gold necklace. In the moment Fiene before the orcs could act he cast his spell upon the leader.

The pig-faced brute gave a tusk toothed grin "we speak with the Oracle now" he nodded in agreement "you ask Oracle who stole crown?"

The other orcs appeared indifferent to the discussion. They eyed up Fiene and Ermengard but did not make any threatening actions, more interested in their own tasks than be interested in what anyone else wanted.

"We're good." he says softly to Ermangard, assuringly.   He nods to the orcs.  "Good idea. ask oracle." he says. Not exactly sure who the oracle might be, and the fact that he was lying about it being his crown he offers to let them go first  "You can ask for you first."

The orc not gently patted Fiene on the back "okay manling" then they easily push open the nearby door. The four orcs swaggered into the twenty foot by twenty foot room. On the far wall was carved a ten foot tall bearded human head. Smoke trailed from its mouth and it stared intently with crystal eyes.

The orcs stood before the Oracle "will the Open Sores defeat Wolf Gang?" the orc asked.

The stone huffed and its mouth opened wide emitting a puff of blue-grey smoke. Its voice rumbled "beware treachery and unknown foes. Your victory is not ensured" it warned.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 3:30pm. Turn: 38. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 6 Turns - lit

Fiene watches with interest, hoping the orcs are pleased with the vague answer. Of course oracles never gave straight answers.  "Is that good?" He asks, but waits for the other orcs to ask questions if they want before he asks.

ooc: was the answer in Orcish or common? or did the orcs ask in common?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:30, Wed 14 Apr 2021.

The question was asked in orcish and answered in orcish. The orcs were cowed by the ten foot face and humble in Ricky's presence but shook their heads at the answer given "Wolf gang make good hunting but Rocky says trouble. We should warn boss" the orc mumbled then turned to Fiene "you ask about crown now? he moved aside so Fiene could approach Rocky.

Fiene steps forward, "Will I get the crown from Da Dragon?" he says in orcish.

Smoke trailed from Rocky's mouth as he answered Fiene's question "beware the caves for they be the home of the dragon" his crystal eyes glowed in the smoky darkness.

Fiene watches to see if the orcs reacted to Rocky's answer. (Assuming it answered in common tongue to see if they speak common) "It said it was dangerous.  Can I ask another question?" he says in orcish.

The questions asked in orcish were replied in orcish. The orcs nodded amongst themselves and agreed, don't go in caves.

Fiene asked another question Rocky opened his stone mouth and replied "yes" then his crystal eyes dimmed and his mouth shut tight with no further smoke escaping.

Ooc: he was asking the orcs, not rocky.  But it appears 3 is the limit, and you have to be careful what you say. Good info to know.

Was his dragon answer in common? So the orcs do understand common

"I saw Da Dragon has my crown, but I'm not strong enough to take it back." Fiene tells the orcs."I will have to wait, unless I can get help."

The craven bullies that orcs are shook their heads at the idea of fighting anything bigger than themselves or as dangerous as a dragon.

The answers from Rocky were all given in orcish.

"You lost crown so not king of caves. You slay dragon then king again?" the orc asked Fiene.

Ermengard unable to understand what was being spoken kept out of the way and stayed quiet.

ooc my confusion.  I thought I posted my question in common

Fiene thinks for a moment. "Think I could be king of caves?". He nods.  "We saw dragon. Dragon is not big." . He looks at them."You help kill dragon, you keep dragon's horde. I just want crown to take back home."

The orcs listened to Fiene's offer and accepted it without question "aye we can help kill the beast" the orcs waited for Fiene to lead them.

Fiene turns to Ermangard."They will help us kill the dragon.  I get the crown. They get the coin."

He looks the orcs over, what weapons they carry. And if there is any symbol or clan insignia prominent.  "We go." he agrees in orcish.

Fiene leads away from the oracle and south.  He expects the passage the orcs came from connects back to the crossroads sign if he goes west.

The orcs were all ugly, apart from that Fiene could not discern any signs of tribe or clan. Their leader carried a sword, one carried an axe and the other two spears.

The passageway south led through a chamber with sooty, man-shaped silhouettes on the walls with ancient inscriptions. The next door was filled with piles of junk, food scraps, filth, broken tools and furniture.

They then reached the crossroads with the rusty signs as predicted by Fiene.



OOC Day: 3. Time: 3:50pm. Turn: 40. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 8 Turns - lit

"This way." He confirms."It could be hiding anywhere. Be ready.". He starts into the caverns. Shining the light up, down and all over, it case it can actually fly.

As they pass the north opening, he gestures "Bats."

The way through the caves was clear and the group reached da dragon's lair. Fiene looked around but could not see da dragon. The crown and coins laid unguarded. The orcs were keen to take their treasure then suddenly da dragon emerged from the pool.

The orcs, Ermengard and Fiene were all surprised. Da dragon, it's wet scales glistening blue expected it lair to be empty and was also surprised.

OOC Both sides are surprised! Declare your actions, roll any dice and I'll roll Initiative for both sides.

Fiene discards the pole with a clatter and draws a dagger. "There it is!"  he cries aloud.  He tries to keep the lantern in his other hand focused on the dragon.

He will throw the dagger if he can without hitting the orcs.  He is planning to let them take the brunt of the fight and will be behind the front line.  He has a second dagger to throw in upcoming rounds.  He will keep the silver dagger for melee if it becomes desperate, but will likely flee before that happens.

It's lair under threat da dragon came out of the pool roaring. The band of orcs and Ermengard circled around it. With a vicious snarl it lashed out at Ermengard, biting the warrior women lifting her up and tossing her to the ground. Ermengard lay slump upon the ground bloodied.

Fiene tossed his dagger but it went wide of its target.

The orcs were not concerned by the loss of their short term companion but pressed their attack. One spear glanced off da dragon's scale, the other spear and axe missing entirely then the leader drove his sword into the beast cutting a bloody gash.

OOC Ermengard is down, she took 5 damage. The orc leader dealt 5 to da dragon. The orcs did not check morale as Ermengard is not one of theirs.

Declare your next actions. Throwing into combat is OK but has a -1 penalty for each intervening obstacle or person.

Fiene moved towards where Ermangard's body lay and seeing her wounds were likely fatal. He pulled up short.  She was a good companion, but she knew what she was in for in Stonehell.   He doesn't throw his dagger yet without a clear shot.

ooc: is the crown where he could snatch it in the chaos? If so he will.

---

Oh. Crap. If the dragon hit with a 10 we might be in more trouble than I expected...  Hope the crown is really gold.  I'd hate for a this to be for worthless brass...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:54, Thu 15 Apr 2021.

Da dragon bit an orc tossed it head and flung the orc down. The orc groaned but did not attempt to stand but lay moaning on the ground. The remaining orcs on seeing their comrade defeated yelled curses on da dragon and laid in many furious blows against it, scoring it's scaly hide in cuts and gashes.

Fiene was able to pull Ermengard clear. She was alive but dying. Her body was bloody and she breathed weakly.

The crown was behind da dragon and out of reach.

OOC Da dragon took another 7 damage. The orcs will fight on but they are down to 3.

Fiene echoes the orc curses, loudly, hoping to bolster their spirits.  He keeps the light fixed on the dragon and throws his dagger if a way is clear.

Standing clear of the fight Fiene threw his dagger. The dagger struck true and lodged itself under a blue scale of da dragon.

The orcs threw themselves against the beast, their weapons tearing at the scaly hide of the beast.

In retaliation da dragon snapped at the orc leader. It's teeth grazed the orc but he shrugged off the injury.

OOC Da dragon took 9 damage, the orc 1 danage. Next round.

Fiene calls out "Open Sore! Open Sore!" as the orcs seem to be giving better than they are getting.

He draws his last dagger, throwing it if a clear shot appears.

ooc: I hope it's close. I don't want to run out of orcs :))

Da dragon was fierce, the battle waged on. Fiene threw his last dagger. The silver dagger flew straight and into the eye of da dragon. Da dragon squirmed and writhe in its death throes.

The orcs cheered. Triumphant they claimed their hoard but soon envied Fiene and his crown. The circlet was fine indeed. The hoard of coins was a measly sixty copper coins scattered about da dragons bed.

Ermengard lay quiet her lifeblood leaking onto the cave floor. The injured orc sat upright but could do little else. All the orcs looked at Fiene with resentment over the split of treasure.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 4:20pm. Turn: 43. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 30'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 11 Turns - lit

Fiene put the circlet on his head and proclaims.  "King of caves and Open Sore are friends." he goes to Ermangard's side.  While looking to see if he can bind her wounds, he takes her makeshift pack, and throws it at the leader's feet, letting it spill open, the cascading silver coins falling to the floor.  "Dragon fight hard. Orcs fight harder. This gift for you from King of caves."  he says hoping that will satisfy them enough to not kill him.

If he can bind her wounds he does."I will see you home." he tells the woman, softly.

He rises, and pulls the silver dagger from the dragon's eye and offers the still bloody weapon to the leader. "What name?" he asks.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:02, Thu 15 Apr 2021.

The sack of silver shared with the orcs their mood lightened "Open Sores friends" they agreed, the two orcs grasping at the silver coins. Fiene tended Ermengard's wounds, she was weak but becoming stable "your mate will live? the orc leader asked.

He accepted the offer of the silver dagger, liking the look of the bright metal. He took to butchering da dragon with it to claim a tooth as his prize "me Nuck" he replied "Open Sores home. Me take prize to mate" he pointed southward.

OOC It will be possible for Fiene to carry Ermengard out but he will be heavily burdened and slow.

"I need to take her home." Fiene says sadly.  He recovers his other daggers, and digs out a couple teeth for himself and Ermangard. "Nuck tell Open Sores, King of caves is friend.  I come back here soon."

He loads up his pack and lantern, he helps Ermangard to get to her feet as best he can, taking most of her weight on himself.  "Stairs not far." he says, and starts making their way back through the Ogre's Maw.

The orcs took their trophies from da dead dragon and carrying their injured tribesman walked as far as the rusty sign with Fiene then Nuck gave his farewells to Fiene.

Ermengard was mostly unconscious and close to death. Carrying her slowed Fiene down and his trek home to Fourtower Bridge would be a long one. Fiene passed safely through the stone carved ogre's maw and dragged Ermengard up the long flight of stairs. He was close to the exit and saw daylight ahead through the entrance to Stonehell Dungeon.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 4:40pm. Turn: 45. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 10'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 13 Turns - lit

Fiene rest Ermangard in a safe place in the hall, and steps closer to the sunshine.  He lets his eyes adjust slowly, even a cloudy day was much brighter than the depths of Stonehell.  It was nearly twenty miles back to Fourtower, and he wasn't sure he was up for it quite yet.

ooc: I want to review map of the valley again.  I know we explored some caves, the empty one with the green slime on the north, and the skeletons on the south.  I'm thinking of holing up in one for some time before trying to trek back.  And maybe She will recover a bit with rest.  I'll reread the Valley thread.

I'm assuming Ben kept the healing potion Fiene found.

Outside the sky was cloudy with a gentle breeze. There were caves dotted along the canyon. To the south a switchback trail had two caves mouths along it's path. To the north water cascaded out of a cave halfway up the canyon wall. Further east were more caves in the sides of the canyon. Two caves which they explored during the previous trip were accessible without climbing.

OOC Natural healing is 1d3 hit points per 24 hours of bed rest. Ermengard is on -3hp. At -1hp she'll be conscious and able to talk. At 0hp she'll be able to walk herself home. At -2hp she'll be in the same condition as now.

Distance to the edge of civilisation is probably 6 miles. It will take Fiene a full day or night of walking to get there whilst carrying Ermengard.

Yes I have it noted that Ben has the healing potion.

Ooc: Is this space sizeable?  I remember something about graffiti

Fiene takes his journey cloak off, and puts it on Ermangard. Hoping to make her comfortable and speed her recovery.  He ponders his options.  Perhaps he could go and bring back help.

The entrance hall is forty foot by forty foot with high arching ceilings. The bare floor is well worn, the walls are graffiti covered.

The area was open and might get people or creatures passing through. The journey cloak helped Ermengard in her torpor to rest easier.

Fiene chooses to rest here for a while.  He moves to the north east corner.  That should give home good view of the stairs and able him to be warned about anyone coming in from the outside before they are seen.  He eats some rations quietly contemplating efforts of the day and whether Stonehell was worthy of it's reputation.

Perhaps the others will emerge soon, or maybe they already have.

The entrance hall was quiet. Ermengard's breathing was slow and steady beneath the comfort of the journey cloak. The sound of the waterfall outside echoed tranquilly around the hall. Other less savoury and mysterious sounds ocassionally crept up from the long staircase to interrupt Fiene as he ate his meal but nothing emerged.

OOC Day: 3. Time: 5:00pm. Turn: 47. Weather: Cloudy. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 10'

Lantern oil used
Fiene: 29 Turns - then refilled 15 Turns - lit

ooc: I'm at a bit of a standoff.

As a player, I'd just say he carries her to town.

As a character, it's early evening and a 6 mile walk caring another person.  I'm sure the trip won't do her any good health wise. Fiene is likely exhausted and out of spells.

His 'long term' plan was to return to town, perhaps hire some more retainers and go back. (A couple more guards and a thief maybe and do that locked room) but since Ermangard is injured that delays that some time.  He was also thinking that retuning without her would make hiring harder. And brings her back and paying for her care would improve his reputation.

I also don't want to get to far into the "future" of the other group. I surmise I'm already several turns ahead from the ooc posts.

I am ok with continuing solo/henchman, but it is also nice to have other players to interact with.

Thoughts?

OOC Yes the timelines are not aligned at the moment with Fiene further along the day than the others. Going any further than a day ahead could become problematic as each delve will change the dungeon and we'll have party crossing paths at different times. As a solution there other other locations nearby which can be explored which would lessen the effect of this.

Carrying Ermengard to the safety of town will be hard on Fiene and risky for Ermengard but it is possible. On the balance of probability however staying close to the dungeon or in the wilderness overnight will be fraught with far more danger.

My thoughts. Yes any plan which involves getting back to town with your treasure and Fiene's portion of map is a good one. Hiring more hirelings and having a goal for which part of the dungeon you want to hit is spot on planning in my opinion.

What do we in the meantime? The other party are at a critical point. There could be variable outcomes. If there are deaths then it could mean some new characters may appear in town for Fiene to meet and share tales with. If they are successful there is an opportunity for you to run a nearby NPC or if you fancy it there's the hireling Orla the haunted cleric of Sidhe you could play as for whilst you wait for them to finish of their delve.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:43, Fri 16 Apr 2021.

ooc: I'm good with having Fiene carry her back to town or to the nearest farmhouse and hang there.  He should still have about 200 silver less the 20? he bribed the kobolds with to give a some to a farmers wife for room and board.

And in the meantime. I could play Orla until (if) they get it of the dungeon.

---

Retroedit:

Fiene sighs as he finishes his meal.  It was likely not safe to stay here any longer.  He climbs to his feet, and takes a dagger, and scratches his name and an arrow pointing out, where is would be seen by the other group if they make it back to the entrance.

He gathers his things, and scoops Ermangard up, and taking his first step, he starts the trek back to four tower and hopes he can find somewhere to rest on the way.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:52, Sat 17 Apr 2021.

By the time Fiene had made his way out of the gatehouse and down the foothills into the forest it was dark. Travel through the forest at night time was fraught with dangers beside the obvious brigands and wolves but nothing assailed Fiene but haunting sounds and terrifying shadows.

By morning he made his way clear of the forest and towards more settled lands. Off the road he came to orb-like building with moss covered walls and roof. A big working dog barked to announced Fiene trespass on the farm and eagerly ran to meet him. The dog was gently called away by an older woman, her golden hair hooded her hazel eyes.

The woman, who introduced herself as Eloise, greeted the pair warmly and help carry Ermengard into her home. Inside the building was a single room, in the middle was a simple cooking pot.

Eloise laid the injured and comatose Ermengard in her bed. Fiene she fed a simple breakfast of oats. Exhausted and weary Fiene was soon sleeping by the fire.

By the time he awoke it was the morning of the next day. Ermengard was sitting up although still sorely injured she was able to move around by herself now.

OOC Yes Fiene should have 180 silver left and should deduct what he's willing to pay Eloise.

XP award 1218.

Fiene smiles at Ermangard.  "You are awake, I was beginning to worry."  he says softly.  "This is Eloise, she has been very gracious since I pounded on her door at such an odd hour."

Whilst Ermengard and Fiene recovered from their perilous delve into Stonehell their host Eloise kept busy. Around the house a few crops grew but during the day she was often away from the house in the outskirts of the forest. She accepted Fiene's coin and let the pair stay until they were ready to finish their journey to Fourtower Bridge.