It is the morning of the day they will bury Salie McHaney.

Like most of her neighbors, Salie was born in Salt Lick.  And other than a trip to Ladder's Ending for her honeymoon, she never went farther than 4 leagues away from it.

Salie lost a lot to the ocean.  It took her husband and her four sons, one right after the other.  It's claimed two of her grandsons and one of her granddaughters.  All were on boats, whether fishing or simply playing.  But the water wanted them and so the water took them.

There are a lot of families in Salt Lick who have lost loved ones to the ocean.  But few who have lost as many as Salie did.

Just before noon, there will be a short service for her in the chapel at the Coomb's manor.  Then she'll be taken down to the docks.  She wanted an old style burial.  A raft towed out to sea and then left to drift past the point the currents would take her back to land.  Some say as she died, she begged for such a send off.  So she could be back with her menfolk.

Others say she just wanted to stink up the ocean cos she hated it so much.

With Salie, it could be either option.  Or both.  Or neither.

The thing is, Salie McHaney's funeral will start a little before noon.

Ordin, your mentor will preside over the service.  Your job will be to carry a branch with apple blossoms on it before the casket and, once she is laid down in the raft, to place it on top of her before they ferry her out to sea.

Zale, you never met Salie.  You hadn't even heard of her before last night.   But a week ago, a young farmer named Douty Neshie found you on the shore when he went to catch some crabs.  He's taken you in.  Though his farm is small, you can at least sleep in a dry loft above the main room.  Douty provides for his wife, two young daughters, and his grandmother Hettie.  Hettie likes to talk and as you are the only one around who isn't too busy, she talks a lot at you.

Douty asked you last night if you would take Hettie to the funeral.  She had grown up with Salie.  And he has work to do and his wife has the girls.  Considering they've fed you thus far, it really isn't much to ask.

I will pause here to let you guys ask any questions or react as you like.

Thanks

Ordin had been making preparations with Nysene Pebblebrook (his Mentor) for the ceremony for Salie throughout the night before the funeral would happen.  Ordin had asked many questions of his Oread Druid mentor.  He wanted to make sure everything would be perfect.  His role was to carry the apple blossom branch and place it upon Salie when she was put in the raft.  It was an easy enough task for him he knew.

Ordin knew of someone else that would be at the funeral.  Someone new to the city who had washed up on the beach not but a week ago.  He didn't know much of the person but had heard that he was Undine.  Ordin couldn't wait to speak to the man and find out what he knew.  It would have to wait though as the morning would be busy with the funeral.

"Yes, Nysene, I will be extra careful with the branch so that none of the petals from the branch fall off."  Ordin reminded her as she had asked about his duty during the funeral.

The undine agrees to take Hettie to the funeral. Zale spends time beforehand fishing, perhaps catching some and provides them to Douty in exhange for being allowed to sleep in the loft. As soon as he wakes up, he goes to the shore letting his feet sink into the beach. Once Hettie is ready to go, Zale is silent for the most part. His otter sits in his arms, constantly looking around like a little babe. Whenever Hettie talks, Zale seems to listen as well as the otter at the same time. Its strange and intriguing but somewhat adorable. And he doesn't wear shoes.

Hettie rambles on and on Zale.  "Salie and I used to be in love with the same guy.  Ewen Hoffsteder.  Hated each other's guts we did.  But then Ewen comes out that he likes guys.  What could we do?  We snuck some beer from the Gaft's place an' went up to the old Braker place.  Drank away our woes together.  After that we were okay with each other.  Then we got married.  Never liked her husband.  Always knew Janx would come to a bad end.  Not much of a fisherman.  But he tried.  Give him that.  Then, what with the kids and everything, we just kinda drifted apart.  Not like we didn't know what was goin' on with the other.  Hell.  It's not that big a village."

The otter glances at Hettie and then at you with a curious look.

Hettie continues.  "Everyone knows when someone else farts.  I heard Nysene fart the other week and told him he needed to lay off the garlic.  He just went on and on about how it was a purifying herb.  So I says to him, "Yeah.  I can smell how pure ya are."  Oh! Speak of the devil.  Nysene!"

Ordin, as you and Mysene head for the chapel, you suddenly hear Nysene's name called.  The two of you see Hettie Neshie being escorted by that Undine fella.  He's got an otter perched on his shoulder.  Hettie starts in on Nysene right away.  You and Zale are on the periphery of their conversation.  Like little kids staring at each other while their mothers gossip.

Feel free to introduce yourself.  Don't be shy

Just before he and Nysene made the chapel, Hettie the old lady who was friends with Salie approached them.  The Undine was at her side.  Ordin looked the man over some as they neared and was obvious about it.  The thing that caught Ordin's eye the most though was the otter that was with him.  Ordin wondered if he too was a druid perhaps.

Then as the two women began to chat Ordin and the Undine fellow found themselves on the side.  Ordin was in more plainclothes today, wearing just a long green shirt and leather trousers with soft boots.  He carried no weapon or anything with him either, after all this was a funeral.  His thick brown beard was peppered with grey blotches and braided together in one braid that almost went to his belly.  If anyone had seen Ordin before they would also know he was missing something else, his armored warcat, Dillo.  It was obvious how the warcat got its name as armored plates like an armadillo were all over its body.

Ordin broke the silence first, "It is nice to meet you finally.  My name is Ordin Oakbranch.  I hope you don't mind me asking, but are you a druid?  You have such a cute little friend there."

All Zale does is smile and nod, like a kid stuck in the corner with Hettie. The otter looks at the undine and squeaks a few times as if talking to Hettie. When Ordin approaches, Zale steps back. He seems to have no weapons besides the otter who looks over at the druid. More squeaks come from it as well as chirping sounds. He lowers his head, keeping his eyes upon the dwarf. Perhaps he's mute. Or shy. Maybe both. Or something else. The otter stares at Ordin after it glances at Hettie "Zale. Druid?"

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 6):

The chapel bell starts to clang.  Services will start soon.

Mysene successfully unentangles from Hettie.  Waving, he motions for you to follow Ordin.  "We'll catch up at the banquet after Hettie.  Got to get things ready!"

Hettie turns and wraps a scrawny arm through the crook of your elbow Zale.  She boops your otter on the nose with her free hand.  And then she wistfully stares up at the chapel belltower.

"Wonder when that bell's gonna ring for me..." she mumbles.

---

The service is brief.  There are a few prayers.  A couple of people get up and say some nice things about Salie.  And then everyone sings her favorite shanty O There the Far Horizon.

After a few more rituals, the men come up and begin to shoulder Salie's casket.  Ordin, you take your position, holding the branch and processing right before the casket.  Mysene is on point, holding a candle and shielding it from the afternoon breeze.

Hettie is a little slow Zale.  She sniffles quite a bit.  A few tears rolled down her craggy cheeks during the service.  But she just shook her head and sang along.

She's singing again as you escort her near the back of the procession.

If I can see it,
I can row there
My darling
My always faithful one

There might be the far horizon,
but you are here
My beautiful gal
My ever setting sun...

The procession arrives at the dock.  The small raft Salie will lay on is resting just on the shore.  The pallbearers walk into the surf up to their knees and lay Salie carefully on her final raft.

Mysene nods at you Ordin.  You just need to head into the surf and place the branch in the crook of her arm so it doesn't fall away.

Both of you make me a perception check please.  Thanks

Seeing Hettie saddened, the undine goes to wipe her eyes. He sighs, listening to everyone. He goes to gently pet the woman as if to try and relax her. The otter squeaks a few times and nudges up against Zale. He seems to mimic but nothing comes from him as if copying. This whole thing seems new to the sorcerer. The man watches Ordin out of curiousity.

15:52, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

When the undine gave his name as Zale, Ordin smiled but when he said druid in a questioning tone Ordin looked a bit confused.  The Zale not know what a Druid was?  "A druid is someone who looks after nature and I thought that since you have that otter there on your shoulder that you might be one.  I myself have a companion, he is not attending today's activities though.  His name is Dillo, perhaps you can meet him sometime."

When the bells began, Ordin rushed inside knowing he would need to be ready.

When the service was complete, Ordin did his part and led the way to the docks.  He then made sure that the Apple Blossom was firmly placed in her hand.  Ordin then moved out of the way and began to look around at the whole of the ceremony and surroundings.

17:25, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 18 using 1d20+8 ((10)). Perception check

In reply to Ordin Oakbranch (msg # 9):

Well aren't you both perceptive?

Ordin, as you step up out of the water and back on to the pier, you turn and have a clear view of the boat that will be towing Salie's body out to sea.

Zale, perhaps your otter nudges you, making you look in that direction as well.  Or perhaps since you weren't attached to Salie, you aren't focused on her body, and so hear the slosh of water.

The towing boat is at the end of the pier, a rope tied to one end, attaching it to the raft.  Two men are sitting in teh boat, waiting for the cue to start towing Salie away.

They are both sitting facing the raft.  You can both see their faces.

The boat suddenly tips.  Something has come up out of the water at it's bow.

The thing looks human.  Mostly.  It looks like a man long since drowned.  Slick, wet, rubbery skin.  Eyes that are bulging, almost as of they contain too many visions of horror to contain them all.  The drowned man opens his mouth and lurches forward, batting at one of the rowers.

The rower tries to pitch forward but stops.  The other rower scrambles backwards.  The tow boat starts to lurch dangerously in the water.



You may both assume you have init.  Your actions are up to you.  Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:22, Thu 16 Sept 2021.

Ordin didn't have any weapons with him and with his companion not there he couldn't signal him to attack the drowned thing attacking the boat.  For his part though, Ordin ran down to the end of the dock to possibly help the two men to the dock.

Is there rope that I can toss to them?

In reply to Ordin Oakbranch (msg # 11):

Should have included the scale.  Sorry about that.  Thanks for catching Zale.

Dock is roughly 50' long.  Ordin, consider yourself about 30' away from the boat at the start of the round.  Rez, you'd be the full 50.

Ordin, as you rush down the pier, you see a few coils of rope set up for mooring purposes.  The tow boat is also still moored to the last pole.  The rowers were not going to release until they were ready to shove off.

There is a rope tying the raft to the tow boat.  But that is in the water.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:27, Thu 16 Sept 2021.

This post is for Kozibi only...

For now...

There's a thick taste of bad-morning-after caking your teeth Kozibi.  Whether you indulged or not, there was a small party last night at Grat's Packets.  A bunch of fishermen gathered to have some drinks in honor of some dead woman named Salie something or other.  Though it was more just an excuse to drink.  And you were providing the entertainment.

You curled up beside the fireplace and woke when the girl who sweeps the floor in the mornings started tickling your face with the broom.

"Sorry," she said, still sweeping away as you woke up.  "But I have to get the floor swept.  Can you get up now?"

Lori, the woman who runs the Inn, gives you a tankard of watered down ale and a bowl of that Gombs stuff.  Crappy name.  Tasty though.

Lori watches you breakfast (well really, brunch) and looks around the room.  "They'll be here after the funeral.  But I doubt anyone will be in the mood for entertainment.  That bunch from last night were just lookin' to get drunk."

She refills your tankard with watered down ale.  She won't serve the good stuff until a few hours before sunset.  "So did you decide to settle down here in town?  I-"

Behind you, you can hear the sound of the front door opening.  Lori has some kind of bell set up to ring whenever anyone comes through.  She looks up, her business smile on.

"Wel.....come..."

Her business smile freezes.  You glance behind you.

Standing in the doorway is a halfling.  Or what's left of one.  He's been dead a while.  Like a long while.  One of his arms is torn off at the elbow.  One of his legs is crushed in and he almost topples over as he puts weight on it.

The zombie shuffles forward.  Then falls over when that bad leg finally goes sideways.

It's just laying there on the floor.  Then it starts to use it's hands to drag itself towars the girl with the broom.

Broom Girl stares at it.  Then at Lori.  Then at you.  Then at the halfling zombie again.

She starts to back up, hitting it with the broom.

Moving quickly along the dock as Ordin moves by his hands go together and begin to form what looks like a waterball. He throws it as hard as he can at the drowned man creature as his otter drops down and scurries behind him.

Kozibi opened one eye a bit, a frown marring his handsome features momentarily, as he was 'broomed'. He let out a small sigh but nodded, "Of course, my dear. Almost anything to make you smile." His melodious voice had a bit of an accent to it, which tended to make him either more attractive to some or more obnoxious to others.

He began to stretch as he moved upward. He did it such a way that might seem like he was putting on a show for people, but really he just liked stretching, full-body when possible. It felt so good.

He smiled widely at Lori when she provided him with sustenance and ale, even watered down. "You are a wonderful woman." However, as she spoke up about entertainment, he paused and swallowed what was in his mouth. "I can perform somber tales and songs as well, milady - if desired. I have an extensive repertoire to fit different moods, themes and styles." He didn't say it but the statement exuded 'well-trained'.

He paused with the mug halfway to his mouth as Lori trailed off and froze. He turned his to see what was the matter, gold hair swinging a bit. His eyes widened, then rolled. "Oh, how droll! You couldn't have waited until after breakfast to attack? Scoundrel! Barbarian!" This was all said without too much of a raised voice or note of concern.

He stood and stepped around the table, picking up and unsheathing his longsword from the chair next to where he'd been sitting, but not yet approaching the undead. "Hmm. The two of you should probably step back. As positively brave and fierce as you are, darling, that broom just will not do the trick. Allow me."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Fri 17 Sept 2021.

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 14):

The ball of water whizzes through the air Zale, and strikes the Drowned Man squarely in the face.

He seems surprised by the impact.  His hands begin to flail and he drops, smacking his torso on the prow of the boat.

The rower who wasn't touch grabs his friend and starts to duck over the side.  Some of the pallbearers are reaching out to drag them out of the fray.

Ya'lls turn again please.  Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:05, Fri 17 Sept 2021.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 15):

Broom Girl seems more than willing to leave it to you Kozibi.

The halfling keeps inching it's way towards her, oblivious to your resplendence.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:06, Fri 17 Sept 2021.

Kozibi mentally, quickly, reviewed the options available to him. Undead made things more difficult for him. He couldn't charm them, lie to them, intimidate them, and they wouldn't care one whit how well he could perform. But since there was - currently! - only one, and a barely-mobile halfling at that, he decided to just use his sword for the moment.

"If you're here to see me perform, I don't go on for another hour!" He stepped towards the halfling and took a slash at it - the metaphor of 'taking a stab' at something was mangled and lost in the moment.

16:52, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 20,6 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longsword vs Zombie!

If the creature is still alive, Zale presses his hands together as another ball of water forms. He releases it as it flies at the downed creature.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 18):

Your sword thwunks into the halfling, sending bits of oogly goo about Kozibi.  The cadaver stops twitching.

Broom Girl swallows in a dry throat.  "I'm gonna have to get the mop."

From outside, you can hear someone shouting.  "Zombie in the fish market!"

There's apparently another zombie next door at the fish market.

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 19):

The second shot hits in almost the same spot you hit last time Zale

This time, the drowned man's head arcs back at an unnatural angle.  He slumps backwards and into the water.  He doesn't seem to be coming up again.

The pallbearers are dragging the rowers onto the shore.

Just as you all catch your breath, you hear someone shouting from back in town.

"Zombie in the fish market!"

The fish market is really the central warehouse where the town dries, smokes, and stores it's fish.  It's right up the hill from the docks Please see the Salt Lick map

You have knackered the Drowned Man.  So no need to hang around here if you don't want to.

With the drowned man sinking back into the water, Ordin turns at the call in the village.  Another zombie had arrived and was in the fish market.  "I need to get Dillo and my weapons.  I am useless without them," he said to Zale as he sped off towards the inn he was staying at.  It wasn't too far from the fish market either so he could be there in short order.

As he made his way there he reached out with his senses to see if there were any other undead in the area.

Detect undead. 60ft cone-shaped area.

Kozibi wiped his longsword off on the dead halfling's...well, calling them clothes at this point was an insult to outfits everywhere. He turned back to the woman and flashed a bright smile. "And the inn is safe once more! You are both very welcome!"

He didn't wait for applause, as he normally might, but instead back towards the door. "But more meaningful thanks will have to wait. I feel the somewhat unfamiliar urge to go help others in need."

He strode from the door at a brisk pace...but not too fast. He may exude confidence, but if there were actually more than one zombie, or a much more capable one than at the inn, he might get in over his head. It would be a calamity of epic proportions should his beautiful features be marred.

Taking a deep breath, he watches the drowned creature lying dead again. Zale makes sure everyone is okay in his own silent way and starts to head towards the fish market. He goes to grab anything of use like a meat cleaver in case it came down to it, the otter jumping up onto his shoulders. All Ordin gets is a nod from the fish man.

Bellinha, you can see why the villagers call this "Skeeters Pond".  You came out here to do your morning practice.  Doing it in the village always attracts a crowd of kids who stare at you like you've just announced you're about to give out free pancakes.

You finish and wipe your brow, waving at the ever-present swarm of gnats who are buzzing about your skull, looking for the slightest opening.

You pick up the small water skin and cool yourself.  Just a quick climb over the slight ridge that seperates the pond from the village, and you can head back to the Inn to get some breakfast.

That's when you hear someone shout out, "Zombie in the fish market!"

Zombie in the fish market?

Well isn't that a pisser?

You would need to head over the top of  the brown area and you could see down into the fish market.  From there, you would be about seventy feet away.  So at least two rounds to get there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:54, Mon 20 Sept 2021.

Ordin, you rush up the slope, heading in a northwest slant towards the inn.

You can see the fish market.  Two women come rushing out, screaming:

"It's the end days!"

"And I just put some biscuits in the oven and a zombie, bloody zombie shows up!  Isn't that just typical?"

You do your mystic druid-mystic-detecto thang and pick up two actually.  Both are inside the fish market and close to each other.

As you see the inn door, that bard steps out...

---

Kozibi, you strut out of the inn, lookin' fine, and you see that dwarf who's staying here.  He's coming running up towards the door you're egressing.

Across the way, two housewives are fleeing the fish market, screaming something about biscuits and zombies.

---

Zale, you scurry up the slope.  Two women are rushing out of the fish market, screaming about baked goods.

You can see Ordin rushing to the inn.  And some guy coming out of the inn.

But more importantly, because you are rushing towards the market, you can see the zombies.  Not zombie.  There are two of them.

The market is two areas.  The village warehouse is at the back.  You can see the stout wooden doors are still shut and barred, so it seems doubtful there are any zombies inside.

The front part of the market is a set of stalls and drying racks set up in a square.  In one corner is the communal oven the village wives use to bake bread each morning.  There is one main entrance into the square, but the stalls have low counters so it is easy to hop over them or lob something over them into the central square.

Inside the sqare, a fisherman is brandishing a cleaver, swinging it at two humanesque corpses shambling towards him.  He keeps glancing over his shoulder, trying to make sure the women are gone.

In answer to your question, there seem to be all kinds of potential weapons laying about Zale.  You can see a cleaver and some harpoons.  Also some fishing poles.

The stalls are open to both sides.  You can enter the square just by hoping over one or throw a water ball, etc. over them easily enough.  Your call.

Zale is within range for a ranged attack.  About ten feet away from the outside of the squre.  Twenty five feet away from the zombies.

Kozibi, you cannot see the zombies from the inn doorway, but you can rush over there.  It's about forty feet away to the outside of the square. Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:38, Mon 20 Sept 2021.

Kozibi hesitated for only a moment, but upon seeing the dwarf rushing towards the fish market, he gave a nod and put on his fiercest face. "Yes! To the fish market!" To the housewives he called out, "Have no fear, fair ladies! We will take care of these foul creatures for you!"

He followed after the dwarf, moving with alacrity, moving as far as he could but not in to contact with the zombies. He wanted to stay a bit back and lure them away from the townsperson. He called out to the zombies, "Come on, zomboys! Why settle for fish when you can have a rare steak?" And with a big grin on his face he dared them, "Eat me."

OOC: I suppose double-moving towards, and in to, the square, but not in to melee, staying at least 10 feet back.

Ordin ran up to the Inn doors seeing the well-dressed man coming out he called to him, "Hey you, there are two zombies in the fish market.  I am grabbing my weapons and will join you there, if you care to help."  This was all said in a huff as Ordin ran past him into the in and up to his room.

The undine once more forms a ball of water and throws it at the closest zombie with some hidden strength. He grabs a harpoon and backs away, gripping it.

In reply to Ordin Oakbranch (msg # 28):

The water ball strikes one of the zombies, forcing it back a few steps.

The other one swivels it's head at Kozibi's voice.  It seems to be taking you up on your invitation Kozibi as it starts to lumber towards you.

The fisherman takes advantage of the distraction and begins to scurry out of the market.

Ordin, you tear up the stairwell in the inn, soon reaching your room and your companion.

Distance wise:

Zale, no real change in your distance.  The zombie is about fifteen feet away now.

Kozibi, you quick timed it over. You can charge forward and attack the one shambling towards you if you like.

Kozibi smiled at the one zombie who looked at him, while managing to look mildly offended that he didn't capture the attention of both! However, he saw the local man able to get away and that made him smile. If he did nothing else today, he had saved the lives of at least three people! "Mum would call that a good start."

He knew the zombie couldn't understand him. It didn't matter. He stepped forward and swung the longsword in a flourishing arc at the undead - too much flourish, as it turned out, and not enough precision. He grimaced as his swing went wide.

22:02, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 7,10 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longsword vs Zombie.

Bellinha stood rooted for a moment as she looked down at the fracas going on in the market.  There were zombies.  Real life...unlife?...zombies.

As tired as she was feeling, she began to run towards the melee.  Of course what she was going to do once she got there was racing through her head as fast as her feet were racing along the ground.

Zombies?  Seriously?  In Salt Lick?

Gripping the harpoon, Zale moves to get somewhat closer and throws it at the zombie he just hit! If he can he reaches out for another harpoon.

Now at his room Ordin pushed open the door and called to Dillo to follow.  Once Orin had his bow and arrows in hand he ran back down to exit the inn with Dillo closely behind.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 31):

Ordin, you and Dillo rush back out of the inn.  As you do, you see another zombie.  This one is shambling around the corner of the inn.

Bellinha, you rush over the crest of the hill.  As you do, you can see what appears to be more zombies.  Two are struggling up the lane by the Widow Parkins house.  Another is coming around the side of the inn.

Zale, the harpoon makes a satisfying thwunk sound as it thuds into the zombie.  The zombie cartwheels it's arms but falls backwards.  It is still twitching, as if trying to figure out where the harpoon came from and how to stand back up.

You notice there are two harpoons nearby as well as a couple of scaling knives and a cleaver.

Kozibi, your longsword...which like you is polished to a fine gleam...sails magnificently through the air, managing to avoid getting streaked with any zombie goo.

The zombie at you lunges forward at you. But you deftly, dare one say gracefully, step aside and prepare your next attack.

Okay.  Lots going on.

Ordin, you have a new zombie coming up on your left.  It is comring around the northeast end of the inn and is about twenty feet away at the moment.

Zale, you have almost killed the one in front of you.  You just happened to pick the one with the most hit points.  The next closest zombie is the one attacking Kozibi, about twenty feet away from your current position.

Belinha, the closest zombies to you are the two coming up from the direction of Widow Parkins house.  See below or Message 7 on the Adventurer's Almanac thread.  You are about twenty five feet from them.  As of yet, no one else has seen these zombies or you.  If you call out, Zale and Kozibi will both be able to hear you.

And Kozibi, you of course have a zombie on you.

That is five total zombies.  Zale has almost killed Z1.  Kozibi is fighting Z2.  Ordin and Dillo are close to Z3.  And Bellinha has Z4 and Z5 in sight.

Questions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:34, Tue 21 Sept 2021.

To hopefully make things a little easier:

Kozibi let out a little laugh of relief as the zombie missed him in return, as he spun away from it, then tried to use the spin to gain momentum for his next attack. He swung the longsword at the creature's belly...and missed it by THAT much! Better, but not good enough! He let out a curse, "Daggers!"

He then frowned a bit, wondering if he was going to be required to tell this undead a story, one it would NOT appreciate at all, in order to end this. He knew his luck wouldn't hold out forever.

21:01, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 11,4 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longsword vs Zombie, Take Two!

Ordin exited the Inn and right away sensed an undead near him, as he turned he spotted the zombie and with a quick word to Dillo and a point to the zombie, Dillo lept towards the zombie slashing with a claw.  Ordin would make a double move to get in behind the zombie to flank with Dillo.

Dillo slashed at the belly of the opponent as he was trained, opening a nice wound on the zombie.

12:01, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 24,4 using d20+5,d6+2.  charge and claw.

Seeing the downed zombie flailing about, Zale grabs another harpoon. He throws the weapon at the zombie that is attacking the bard.

Aimed at Zombie 2
07:33, Today: Secret Roll: Zale Morcant rolled 5 using 1d8.

07:33, Today: Secret Roll: Zale Morcant rolled 13 using 1d20-1.  Throw the Harpoon.

"Okay, two zombies...at least I think their zombies...could be something else...although noting flesh is kind of a give away."  Bellinha said as she quickly sized up the situation.  "...I have a sword and I need breakfast."

The rings on the back of her sword chimed as she brought the weapon up to touch two fingers to the blade, giving voice to mystic words that she had memorized earlier in the day.  The blade was spun in a flourish into a ready position as she ran down the hill towards the pair of undead.  Bells ran wide and to the side, hoping to avoid being flanked.

OOC:
Casting Shocking Grasp
Move up to Z4, fighting defensively.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 37):

Actually Kozibi, your longsword strike, which should have gone wide, connects.  The zombie kind of walked into it.  Still grasping for you.  But he hasn't gotten his decayed paws on you yet.  And then.... These guys are a 10 to hit

The harpoon sails from your hands Zale and makes an oddly satisfying thwunk sound.  The zombie pitches forward and falls to the ground.  It's no longer moving.  Z2 down Kozibi and Zale.  If the two of you can give me a perception roll please.  Thank You.

Ordin, the ol' slash and claw does indeed make a nice hit.  In fact, the zombie tumbles to the ground.  She's not moving any more.  Z3 is down Ordin.  What's the range on your detect again?  60'?

The zombie stops, seeming to hear the tching tching of your sword rings Belinha.  It rushes...well. Shambles quickly...towards you.  It lunges and manages to somehow miss you although you're standing right there.

The other zombie must not be able to hear.  Of course it doesn't have an ear on this side of it's head.  So maybe that's it.  It continues to shamble towards the fish market...

Kozibi let out a surprised gasp when his pitiful sword strike managed to hit. But then his thunder was stolen by someone else landing the killing blow. He frowned and called out, "Foul!" but then let out a laugh. "Thank you for your assistance. Or you thank me for my assistance to you since you were here first?" He waved a hand, "It doesn't matter. We assisted each other and the zombies are defeated! Huzzah!"

17:34, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Perception.

Bellinha slipped to the side and away from the Zombies clumsy attack.  Her broad bladed sword chimed as she brought it around in a well practiced sweep for a strike on the Zombie.  As her blade sliced into the Zombie, Bellinha thrust her free hand forward, small bolts of electricity arcing between her fingers, expelling the held charge into the rotted flesh.

OOC:
Sword Attack -> 19
Damage -> 4
Spell attack -> 18
Damage -> 5

Popping up from behind a crate is the otter and then the undine brandishing another harpoon. He whistles as the otter follows closebye. Zale just nods to the man. He glances about the area.

03:40, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

Ordin, Kozibi, and Zale, the three of you are staring at the scattering of undead-now dead zombies.

Belinha, you thrust into your opponent, shocking at the same time.  The zombie jerks and then slides sideways, cutting itself neatly in half on your blade.

The last zombie is lumbering towards the fish market, apparently unconcerned that it's compatriot is now so much worm food.

As start to turn towards it, a stone comes whistling across the space and bounces against it's head.  The zombie tips sideways and falls over.

A young halfling girl is standing a ways away, putting a stone into her sling.  She glances at you you Bellinha and giggles.

"Sorry.  I-"

She doesn't get a chance to finish what she was going to say.

One of the farmers comes running up from the southeast.  "Help!  Someone! Norvis is fighting a slimy dead one in my pumpkin patch!  Hurry 'fore they smash up all my pumpkins!"

You all hear that.

Zale and Ordin, you recognize the voice.  He's a neighbor of the Neshie's.  That pumpkin patch isn't too far away from the Neshie's home.

Kozibi, you do know there are some gourd farming places in that general direction.

Bellinha, you can see the farmer and where he's pointing.  So you have a general idea of what direction to go.

The halfling whips another stone at the zombie.  "I think I can handle this one."

Let me know who wants to go charging towards the pumpkin patch.

Thanks

Ordin heard the call and knew the patch was close to Neshie's.  He was not too far from there so as he had before, he looks to Dillo, and even though he knew Dillo didn't understand all his words he said, "Go get em' girl!"  Ordin pointed towards Neshie's and then he too took off running.

"Great shot." Bellinha said to the Halfling girl, giving her a small grin.  "Keep this one busy and...I don't know your name...nevermind...I'll be right back."

Taking breath, Bellinha started running towards the pumpkin patch.

Kozibi hid the frown as the other person didn't really respond at all aside from a nod. But he mentally shrugged. Not his audience, apparently. He then heard the cry about the pumpkin patch and rolled his eyes, but began moving that way anyway.

"No rest for the wicked! Or the helpful apparently!"

Taking a deep breath, Zale grabs a meat cleaver while holding the harpoon. He tucks it into his belt as he heads towards the screaming. The undine scoops up the otter if neebee and tucks him onto his shoulder.

The four of you scurry towards the pumpkin patch.

When you arrive, you can see a sallow, slimy skinned naked man, obviously very dead, with a hinged mouth filled with sharp teeth.  He is dragging Norvis along the ground.  The marshall is twitching, so he should still be alive.

Mr. Slimy has several sword wounds in him.  Norvis didn't fall without putting up a fight.

See the proceeding map.  Find your initial for your location.

Bellinha, you are 20' away.  Kozibi, you are 30'.  Zale and Ordin, 35'.

You may assume you have init.

If you charge directly at Mr. Slimy, I will need a Reflex save 8- to make it over the pumpkin vines you cross.  Failure trips you.  You can head around the long way, but add 10' to your distance.

Of course, you can take ranged actions all you like.  Go nuts.

Let me know if there are any questions.  Thanks.


This message was last edited by the GM at 05:12, Mon 27 Sept 2021.

Kozibi saw the zombie and the man...still alive?...being dragged behind them. He frowned and walked, briskly, towards the zombie, longsword still in hand. He thought about switching to the sling, but didn't think that would do much to the zombie, and it would let them get farther away.

So he walked up to the zombie and swung his longsword. "Let him go, and leave this place! OR SHE will smash you in your face!" He had seen a woman coming, it looked like with intent to get the zombie. He hoped it was the zombie and not him.

OOC: No charging, just moving 30 feet and swinging.

23:42, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 17,6 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longsword vs Pumpkin Zombie.

Once Ordin made it to the patch he saw the undead dragging Norvis on the ground.  (Which direction is the undead dragging him towards?)  Ordin then spotted the angelic-like male move to intercept the undead and slash his blade at it.  That action kept Ordin from aiming with his bow for he didn't want to accidentally hit the man.  Instead, Ordin moved towards the direction that the zombie was dragging Norvis in case it didn't fall to the slashing longsword.

Moving as quick as he can, he gets to the patch. Taking a deep breath, he throws the harpoon at the slimy man.

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 54):

"Pumpkin Zombie" seems to be heading in the direction of the scarecrow Ordin.  If it means to drag Norvis off the field in that direction or not, you aren't sure.

His dragging comes to a halt though as Zale's harpoon thuds into him.  That is followed by Kozibi's longsword.

But as your sword makes contact Kozibi, you notice something is different.  This one isn't as ramshackle as the ones you've met up until now.  This one seems...much more life like.

Which it proves as it swipes at you with one filthy hand...

2 HP damage.  Also, need a Fort save vs. 12- from you please Koz, or you are paralyzed for 2 rds.  Turns out Pumpkin Zombie is Pumpkin Ghoul

Your guys go again. 

The Zombie was not too far away but there were many new faces around her, which proved to be just a moment of distraction for Bellinha.  She muttered a few arcane words, at the end of which produced a small marble of bight light in the palm of her open hand.

After the others had made their initial attacks, and the beastie was still standing, Bellinha sprinted forward.  When she was close enough, she slashed out at the ghoul with her blade.

OOC:
Attack 18
Damage 9

Ordin moved to the edge of the patch while pointing to the undead beast.  "Kill it Dillo!!"  Ordin said.

As the word kill came out Dillo came up from behind and slashed his claw at the leg of the thing opening a nice-sized gash on its leg.

08:22, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 24,8 using d20+5,d6+2.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:25, Tue 28 Sept 2021.

Kozibi stopped moving suddenly, a satisfied smile still plastered on his face, sword at his side and preparing for another swing. Unable to move, paralyzed, he began to regret his life choices, especially those of today.

11:16, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Regretting Life Choices (Fortitude Save).

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 58):

As <puprle>Kozibi</purple> starts to freeze up, Ordin and then Behinha step in.  Pumpking Zombie/Ghoul/Thing falls backwards, a deep gouge in it's gut and an arrow protruding from it's neck.

There's a brief moment.

No one comes running out, screaming that a vampire is attacking the widows.  No skeletons skitter out of the nearby pea patch.  Ordin, your 'dead sense' isn't going off.

The four of you get a chance to catch your breath.  It seems the worst of it is over.

Norvis is cut in several places.  The Pumpkin Thing looks to have taken a bite out of his arm and leg.  Norvis needs tending.

From behind you, you can see a group of villagers charging forward with pitchforks and torches.  They stop at the edge of the pumpkin patch.

"Uhmm...We heard there was another nasty here.  Is that it laying there on the ground?  Oh.  So...I guess our work here is done."

Someone else calls out, "Well now what?"

Kozibi, your limbs start moving again.

"Whew." Bellinha let out a breath before giving those around her a smile.  "Yay, teamwork."

She turned to the villagers and pointed at Norvis.  "We need a healer.  We have injured here.  Oh and there was a little girl with a sling fighting one of these things, did anyone see where they went?  Let's make sure that there are no more of these things around."

As Dillo clawed the undead thing it fell over having been returned back to the world of the dead.  Ordin came in close and ran his hand along the hairless carapace of Dillo.  "Well done my friend."  Then as he saw that Norvis had some nasty wounds he wanted to heal him but, unfortunately, Ordin hadn't prepared such spells for the day.

"I can't heal him today.  I wasn't prepared for anything like this happening today.  Though I can sense that there aren't any signs pointing to more of the undead things around right now.  I somehow have a special gift to route out the things.  I can take a look around town to make sure we are clear though.  By the way my name is Ordin, for those that I don't know."

Kneeling down but not touching the ghoul's body, he tilts his head, and lookng like he's casting something and stands back up. Grabbing the harpoon, Zale watches the others here "Zale." The otter climbs up onto his back, does a raspberry at them and huddles into the undine. He simply starts to walk off, probably checking on Hettie. His feet moves a bit slow in the brambles and he has no shoes which is odd.

Kozibi lurched backwards suddenly, almost falling over, from the awkward positioning he had found himself in when paralyzed. "Whoah!" Then he straightened himself and cleaned his longsword off before sheathing it.

He smiled brightly at the others, especially the woman he didn't know. "The undead are defeated!" But the smile faded. "Yes, strange, where did all these undead suddenly come from, I wonder?"

He looked at them all as they began to introduce themselves. He gave a flourishing bow. "I am Kozibi Januson, Bard extraordinaire, and sometimes swordsman and undead re-killer apparently. Tis a pleasure to meet you."

He called loudly to the townsfolk, "Is there a healer in town??"

"Yeah!  Coming!"

Zale, a halfling girl in plain clothes and holding a sling walks past you.  She grins at you as she passes but continues towards the crowd.

You can see Hettie near the dock.  She's with some of the fishermen and they are all climbing up the slope towards the town.  She looks frightened, but okay.

Billinha, the little girl from before pushes through the crowd and walks over to Norvis.  She grins at all of you.  "I don't know any of you.  I'm Moondog.  Blame my parents."

She kneels down beside Norvis and starts to move her hands.  Ordin, you can see she's casting some light healing magics to stabalize Norvis' wounds.

In answer to your question Kozibi, one of the farmers points towards the north.  "I saw them stumblin' down from the woods along the coast I did."

He points at the Pumpkin Zombie/Thing.  "That one was kinda herdin' 'em all along."


"Alright all of you.  Calm down."  An older man wearing old boots and an outdated and slightly ratty linen suit walks up.  It's Orus Coombs, the town administrator.  He glances at you Bellinha and then looks at Norvis.

"He gonna be okay Moon?"

"I think so.  We need to get him back to his house.  But I think he's safe to move."

"What're we gonna do if there's more of 'em headin' this way Orus?"

"Well first of all we're gonna calm down.  Let's get all the kids an' old people to my house.  They can hunker down in the chapel for now.  I'll ask Nysene to go with me an' scout."

He glances around.  "Let's get organized.

"Someone run over to the Inn and let Lori know what's goin' on.  Tell her she might need to shelter some folks tonight.  My chapel an' barn are only so big.

"Speakin' of my place, if a couple of you able bodied can run over there and check it out.  Let's make sure it's clear of any zombie like things before we start bunching people inside.

"And the rest of you, spread out to all the farms and houses.  Make sure everyone knows.  Either head to my place or the inn.  Let's gather everyone there.

"C'mon people.  Let's move like we got somethin' to do."

I will let you guys decide what you want to do right now, if anything.

Thanks
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:44, Thu 30 Sept 2021.

The undine helps the old woman, holding his hand to hers. Tilting its head, the otter barks on Zale's back. Not knowing what is going on, he watches the halfling take off. He makes sure Hattie is okay as its his job to keep her safe "You are safe." The sorcerer nods his head but remains close. He doesn't catch the bards name as he left but the Aasimar intrigued him as well as the druid and the other Aasimar. So much has happened but the water just intrigued him. All of the undead rising up but why?

Bellinha wiped down her blade as she listened to her cousin take charge.  She gave him a small smile in acknowledgement when he glanced at her, but she wasn't sure how to take the look.

"I think that we should make sure that the village is safe before investigating where these things came from." she said.  "We check out the places where folks can take refuge and then head off into the woods.  Anyone want to come with?"

When Moondog cast her healing magic on Norvis, Ordin saw that his wounds began to mend.  He should be okay, he thought to himself.

When Orus came finally and began giving orders to the townsfolk, Ordin was glad for it.  They needed order and something else to do to get the thought of any kind of invasion out of their minds.  Was it an invasion?  Ordin wondered to himself in silence.

As the others gave their names Ordin gave them a kind smile and a nod of his head in acknowledgment.  "We will help make sure that Orus's house and the church are clear of any undead.  My nose has a nose for them dead things."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:37, Sat 02 Oct 2021.

Kozibi turned to look at the person the voice belonged to that responded to him. His eyebrows rose up a little at the sigh of the halfling but then he simply shrugged it off. He nodded at her, "Good show."

He glanced towards where the farmer pointed and then at the thing that paralyzed him. He didn't think it was a normal zombie, but wasn't certain. But then a person took charge and started speaking up, asking for calm more than once.

Kozibi listened and frowned only slightly for a moment. He glanced over at the dwarf and woman with a raised eyebrow but then nodded. "Very well. I shall accompany you." That seemed more directed at the other Aasimar than anyone else.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 68):

Ordin, in case I caused confusion, it was Moondog who healed Norvis.  Sorry if that was not clear.

Hettie grips your hand tightly Zale.  "Thank You.  Let's get to the chapel.  I...could use a sit down."

The four of you head towards the chapel.  Zale accompanying Hettie and Belinha, Ordin, and Kozibi moving with the crowd.

People are just starting to gather at the chapel and estate.  A middle aged woman you recognize as one of her neighbor's rushes up and hugs Hettie.  "Oh!  I heard you were at the funeral!"

Hettie hugs her back.  "I'll be okay.  I'm a tough ol' bird."  She looks back at you Zale>  "I'm gonna stay with Berta here.  You helped fight off those monsters.  Can you help patrol sweetie?  We might need all hands on deck."

Bellinha, a fussy looking thin man in a black linen coat prances up, dithering as he hops from foot to foot and wrings his hand.  This is Jocko, Orus' butler.

"Oh!  Ms. Grunnel!  They're telling me all kinds of tales!  There's dead walkin' about?  Master Orus headed for the woods with the druid.  Can you patrol the grounds?  I've got to get people settled."

The "estate" as it were is really a larger house with a chapel and a watch tower.  Behind it is a large barn and beyond that is Skeeter Pond.  There's no fence around the compound.  Anyone...or anything...can just shamble right up.

Here is the Estate in all it's glory.  You guys are in charge of securing the grounds.

Any particular manner you want to go about it?  Or you just want to walk around it in a patrol?

Thanks

"Of course, Jocko." Bellinha said, stealing a look towards the woods.  Making sure that the townspeople were safe was of paramount importance, but part of her wanted to go into the woods.  Maybe it was the foolish part but still.

She turned back to look at her companions, if she could call them that after having just met.  "So, Ordin and Kocidi, right?" Bellinha smiled.  "I'm Bellinha.  Apologies for not introducing myself earlier, there was so much going on.  Have you guys been in the village long?"

With Nysene and Orus heading into the woods, Ordin's mentor was serving a greater purpose.  That left him to look over the town, which he seemed to be more than up for it.

As the people began to gather at the manor and church the woman that called herself Bellinha introduced herself.  "Pleasure to meet you as well.  I have been in and around town for a little while and know my way well.  For now I think we should gather as many willing people beside us to form a nice patrol area around the buildings here.  I think at least 4 or 5 will be enough."

THe sorcerer makes sure to stop and get his gear before going to the square with Hettie. He nods his head to Hettie and makes sure she is safe in the chapel before starting to patrol the area-first stop the pond and then the barn. Ordin and Kocidi, and now Bellinha. He tilts his head, watching the three of them. The undine feet adjusts himself against the ground. Gripping his spear he shouldn't be too hard to pick out-probably the only blue person in the crowd.

Kozibi feigned looking wounded and hurt at Bellinha for just a moment when she mentioned their names. "It's actually Kozibi, not Kocidi, but I will forgive you." He then shrugged if off and smiled at her. "It is wonderful to meet you, Bellinha."

He pointed over to the Undine, "And while you did not mention this fellow, their name is Zale apparently, if I heard correctly?" He looked for confirmation. "We aided one another in the fish market, which is not something I thought I would ever say."

He shook his head, "I'm a traveling bard, so I haven't been here long enough for the crowd to go stale."

OOC: Random patrol!

Seeing the wounded expression on Kozibis face, Bellinha quickly moved to apologize.  "Oh I'm sorry, I must have misheard.  I meant no offence.  I really haven't been in the village all that long and still trying to get everyones names..."

Seeing the blue guy standing away from them, Bellinha waved him to come over.  "Zale?  It is Zale, right?  Do you want to join us?"

A look of bewilderment comes from Zale. He watches this odd bard, then leans on his spear. A nod comes from the undine as Bellinha speaks towards him. The otter drops down and walks over to Bellinha, moving around her then goes over to the bard. Same thing.

A smile at the cuteness came over Kozibi's face as he looked down at the otter moving around and smiled. He crouched down to get a better look at the creature. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean not to include you in the introductions, but I haven't been introduced to you. I don't know your name, little one."

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 77):

I heard "Random Patrol".  So let's go with that.

If you can all post a Perception check please and thank you.

The villagers are rushing in as word spreads.  The four of you head out, moving widdershins in a circle around the estate.

Lots of them as the afternoon drags on...

All spell tossers have have a chance to rest and recover spells.

A little before the dinner hour, you are making a circuit near the barn when you hear the horses start to neigh.  They sound terrified.

There are two main doors into the barn, one at each end.  The one closest to the pond is slightly ajar.

The random patrol was a bit more normal and planned than unorganized as Ordin had laid out intervals and distances to keep.  As the day wanned Ordin became hopeful that the danger had passed.

08:44, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 11 using 1d20+8.  perception check.

Checking out the area, Zale starts to head towards the pond but stops. He glances around with the otter near him and he stretches gripping his spear.

23:46, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Perception.

Kozibi wasn't sure why he was getting strange looks from the Undine and the otter wasn't introduced, but he shrugged it off and walked around on patrol with the group. He stole glances at the other Aasimar in their group occasionally, but mostly he kept his senses alert for danger and more undead.

He frowned when he heard something, "uh oh." He glanced at the others, "Come on!"

He turned and headed for the barn at a sprint, aiming to head inside.

20:54, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Perception check.

Bellinha was excited, and a little nervous, during the patrols.  It wasn't so much that she didn't want to take part, she did, but she was more nervous that her inexperience would show through and she would screw something up.  She was glad to follow Ordins lead, as he seemed to know what he was doing.

When they had some time to rest, Bellinha pulled out her spellbook and started to memorize spells that would be better suited to dealing with undead.


And was Kozibi looking at her?  Bellinha wasn't entirely sure.  The bard was certainly handsome enough to turn a girls eye but...

Pointing at the side of the barn close to the pond, "Hey, wasn't that barn door closed before?" It was all she could say before Kozibi was running for the barn.  A second later, Bellinha was following.

OOC:
Today: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 14 using 1d20+5.

Ordin wasn't walking with the others as was planned so that they didn't have a gap in their patrol.  Thus as the question came out about the barn he didn't hear it.

After a moment though he saw Kozobi run towards the barn.  It was up ahead and so he just kept walking with a quickened pace towards that direction.  Ordin even called out ahead to the others, "Hey what is going on up there?"

Oddly, the undine doesn't go towards the slightly open door. He circles around, holding his spear outwards and trying to remain quiet. Zale goes to try to open the door if possible.

16:20, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Stealth.

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 84):

During the day, Kozibi and Bellinha, you notice that your group is being watched.  A young girl is keeping an eye on the four of you.  She isn't following you per se.  But as you make your rounds, she seems to pop up.  Behind a bush or at the corner of the manor house.

You see her with some of the village women a couple of times.  You even make eye contact.  But if you approach her, she scurries off.

---

Whatever is going on inside, the horse in there is not a fan of it.  It's neighing in a high panicked state.  Another horse in there sounds like it's freaking out as well.

As you peek in through the doors, you can see the issue.

The barn has two stalls, with a horse in each stall.  One of the stall doors is open and a large hairy thing is standing by one of the horses, it's thick arms wrapped around the horse's neck.  There's a slurping sound and the horse is trying to buck it off.

The other horse, smelling blood, is going crazy.

As far as the hairy thing...well it's a bugbear who's seen better days.  There are holes in it's back and neck, showing that at some point it had been wounded enough that it couldn't survive.

And apparently it's back from the grave, just all kinds of anxious for it's pound of horse flesh.

Undead Bugbear is noshing on the neck of a horse.  It has not noticed any of you.

Yet.

Here's a really bad map for you.

Let me know if you are standing at the northern or southern door.  You do not have to be together.  From your posts, I can assume you guys would head towards either door.

Thanks

The undine slowly opens the door and upon seeing the undead beast puts his hands together and lobs a waterball at it!

I'll be at the door that was closed.
19:27, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 8 using 2d6.  Damage.

19:27, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Snowball (Water).

19:25, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Initiative.

Kozibi stepped inside and stopped short. His eyes widened and his lip curled up a bit of its own volition. He then shook his head and stepped forward, "Hey, Ugly! First date, no tongue!"

But despite his firm words that were meant to be mocking, he was worried that there might be more than one of the creatures in the barn, so he was a bit hesitant, poking his sword in the general direction of the creature, but not a proper swing per se.

OOC: I'll say northern door! Kozibi will move towards the creature and point at it with his longsword uselessly (assuming he can reach it).

23:09, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

23:11, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 4,5 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longsword vs Bugbear.

No one seemed to hear him as Ordin called out but as he got closer he thought he could hear the horses really screaming out and then he thought he heard some combat.  This open air sure messed with one's perception of things.

Ordin picked up his pace and as he got to the southern door he saw what all the commotion was about.  He said one word and Dillo jumped, "Attack!"

An initiative of 22, not sure if I can go yet since it probably took my turn to get to the barn.

Bellinha skidded to a stop a few steps behind Kozibi.  "What in the name of holy is that!" she shouted, pointing her sword at the Bugbear. In her surprise, for Bellinha was expecting one of the undead that they had encountered earlier, she hesitated, intimidated by the appearance of the creature.

Her hesitation was broken when Kozibi stepped forward.  "Why are you getting close to that thing....oh nevermind..." Bellinha summoned up a small ball of shining energy and thrust it towards the Bugbear.

OOC:
Initiative: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 7
Cast Disrupt Undead: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 10
Damage: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 3

In reply to Zale Morcant (msg # 87):

Okay.  Koz got the chuckle award for this encounter.

The bugbear/bloodsucker/thing, or BBT for short, looks over at Kozibi's taunt.  He starts lurching towards the astounding Aasimars when Zale's strikes him in the back of the head.  He's then hit from the front by Bellinha's orb o' un-be-dead.

Ordin, you and Dillo slide through the door after Zale and see what's going on.

BBT staggers a bit, obviously not real happy about any of this.  He suddenly roars...and the room starts to stink.

Everyone make a Fort save vs. 12 or you are sickened (-2 on all rolls) for 5 rds.

Your moves.  Thanks.

Kozibi made a horrified face and shook his head several times, blinking rapidly. "Oh gods! No! Ugly AND smelly! You poor damned creature!"

Despite every best judgment in him, he swung with the longsword again - and desperately prayed that cutting the thing wouldn't make it smell MORE!

OOC: And to the surprise of everyone, including me - Kozibi made the save!

21:28, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 13 using 1d20+1.  I would like to save some Fortitude.
21:30, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 14,10 using d20+2,d8+2.  Slash the not-bugbear.

"Ye Gods!  What a stench." Bellinha covered her mouth and nose as the creature roared.  The horrid smell did not stop her from casting another Disrupt Undead.


OOC:
Bellinha Grunnel rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Fort Save.
Today: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 9 for Ranged Touch and 4 for damage

As the sorcerer goes to throw another waterball, he is hit by the massive stench and the ball flies against the wall.  He steps back, trying not to vomit.

04:18, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 3 using 1d20+1.

04:18, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 1 using 1d20.  Fort Save.

When Ordin saw the undead creature and what it was his heart fell.  Have an undead human was one thing but if it is affecting the dead animals something needed to be done about it.

Ordin mentally blocked out the stench the thing gave off and pointed to the thing and said "Attack!"

Dillo moved as if stacking its prey and came up to the backside of the thing as it faced Aasimar and slashed his claw at the legs of the beast.

19:46, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 15,3 using d20+5,d6+2.  claw attack.

19:46, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  please save.

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 92):

The claw/slash/zap of Dillo, Kozibi, and Bellinha do a number on BBT.  It makes a gagging noise and slaps at Kozibi, but Dillo's blow knocks it off balance.

It staggers to one side and turns to make a lunge at Dillo...

Go ahead and keep at it.  Almost done.

Koz and Ordin, you guys get flanking bonuses on your next rolls.

Ya'lls move.  Thanks.

Zale fires off another waterball but misses his mark.


05:00, Today: Zale Morcant rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Waterball Attack.

Kozibi leaned away from the creature's lethal retort, but knew that the warcat helping had certainly...well...helped. He spun away from to gain momentum and used it to try and slice at from an angle, hoping to make it less dangerous. Or inert. Unmoving would be wonderful!

"I am sorry but I really must insist that you re-die now!"

OOC: So Attack 18 with flanking.

23:34, Today: Kozibi Januson rolled 16,7 using d20+2,d8+2.  Longswording the Smellybad.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:53, Mon 11 Oct 2021.

Dillo quickly dodges any attacks while getting two claws and lunging forward to take a bite out of the undead beast.


07:57, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 10,6 using d20+7,d6+2.  bite attack.

07:56, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 8,7 using d20+7,d6+2.  claw attack.

07:55, Today: Ordin Oakbranch rolled 16,7 using d20+7,d6+2.  claw attack.

"How is that thing still standing?" Bellinha muttered as she unleashed another ray of positive energy at the undead creature.  Seeing everyone attacking that thing, from Longsword to claws, and it was still on its feet.

OOC:
Today: Bellinha Grunnel rolled 22 to attack for 2 damage

In reply to Kozibi Januson (msg # 98):

The smelly bad falls over under the effects of claw/claw/bite/poke/zap.

It lays on the floor, smelling worse than it did before somehow.  But no longer moving.

I'll let you guys react/do what you want then move us along.  Thanks

Trying not to breath in and not doing a good job, Zale holds a hand up to his mouth and the otter walks out of the barn. For good measure, he grips his spear and slams it through the creatures skull, giving it a sharp pull. Looking around, he tries to see if he can spot a wagon and goes to gently place a hand to the one remaining horses head trying to calm him down. Still silent.

Kozibi finished his slash with his sword and then stepped back. The thing fell over and he started to lean in to make sure it was re-dead but then the even-worse smell hit him and he immediately backed up and moved to the nearest exit. "By the gods, that is awful!"

He gulped in fresh air.

Dillo tore into the flesh of the dead owlbear.  The meat wasn't completely rotten for him so he enjoyed a nice taste.

Ordin came forward and said a bit of a prayer and then said, "You all haven't smelled some bad quite yet.  This ain't nothing.  Now who's going to help me with this body to get it out and rightfully buried?"

"Burn it." The undine looks out through the door then glances at Ordin.

Bellinha, upon seeing the creature fall, backed up completely out of the barn.  "Is that it?" She said when she poked her head back in to the barn.  "There are no more of those things, right?"

Seeing Dillo tearing at the flesh of the dead creature, Bellinha felt her stomach lurch and had to step around the edge of the door again.  Who were these people that eating undead things was normal?  "I'm....going to check for...any others..."

To Ordin's comment about having not smelled worse things before, Kozibi nodded vigorously. "No, and I think the gods for that! This was bad enough." He got a bit pale, frowned deeply and turned away from the sight of Dillo eating.

He nodded at Bellinha. "Good idea. We should let....Master Coombs...know what we found." He stepped out of the barn completely, looking around slowly.

As the four of you recollect yourselves, word comes back from the main house.

Master Coombs has sent word that everyone should bunk down where they are tonight.  Everyone should be able to head home in the morning.

I will have a new thread up tomorrow as we move onto the next day.  Thanks all.

Zale goes to help out to remove the dead body and insists it to be burned but if others are against it he helps bury it. He remains quiet for some reason, and goes to check out the pond once its done. If nothing is found around it and it looks safe he dives in to check it out. Once done he returns back to where Hettie is and checks on her.

Ordin was fine with burning the body if it was the consensus.  Either way, the soul would be returned to rest.

Once it was complete Ordin returned to the walking guard.