It was 2 weeks since your father gave a royal decree that you were to go with a troop of royal guards to the border city of Almask, the merchants near the city had suffered a sudden rash of attacks by bandits and the governor of Almask had asked for aid from the crown.

The real work was to be done by the guards but your presence was to show the king took the trouble seriously.

The sun was rising in the sky, peering out the windows of the carriage the grey walls of the city are just becoming visible, along the road to the city a trickle of people can be seen entering and leaving the city many seem to be merchants and the like their loaded wagons obvious even at this distance.

The only other occupant of the carriage sighed "Please remember to curb your enthusiasm and maintain the dignity of your position when we arrive" she said with a smile. Lady Alisha Brandon, priestess of Dol Arrah the patron goddess of your house.

Alisha has been with your companion, advisor and some would say keeper for as long as you can remember. You were good friends and Alisha often teased you like this.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:12, Sun 16 Jan 2022.

"It is still dealing with bandits," Epineh said. "It could be exciting."

Alisha replied "The guards will be dealing with the Bandits. You'll be staying in the city and showing that the royal family views this as an important issue to them"

"Maybe? I mean, we'll see," Epineh said.

Alisha looked less than convinced but remained silent as the party entered the city and arrived at the main square.

Inside the square,  many of the locals were waiting, drawn up in front of the crowd was a group of house guards and local notables waiting for you to disembark.

Epineh stepped out of the carriage with a serious look on her face.

The house guards came to attention as you gout out and the assembled nobels bowed "Your highness,  we are honoured by your presence.  I am Baron Hangel and these are my advisors" he said indicating the other nobels near by "Count Elis, Count Souchen and Countess Hildegard"

"Well met, I just wish it was under better circumstances," Epineh said.

Baron Hangel nods and gestures away from the square "Of course, you must be tired after your journey we have rooms prepared for you and your entourage. Count Elis, as head of the city guard can advise the Royal Guardsmen were they can best be used"

Behind the row of house guards you can see the cityfolk straining to catch a glimpse of the princess.

Epineh waved to the people,

"Certainly, you are too kind," she said, following.

The crowd cheered as Epineg waved and roared their approval, you were led a short way to a walled mansion and you were led quickly through the garden and into the building. "I'll have the Royal Guardsmen assigned rooms in the barracks" the Baron said "Rooms for yourself and your lady will be here in my home, please ask the staff if you need anything"

The Baron turned to Sir Galden the head of the Royal Guardsmen detachment  "When your men are settled I would appreciate some of your time Sir Galden, so that Count Elis and I can explain our issue in more detail and where we think you can help"

"Honestly, Baron Hangel, I feel we should talk about the bandit problem as soon as possible," Epineh said.

"Your highness? I assure that between myself, Sir Galden and Count Elis we will have the issue under control. There really is no need for you to worry about such a complex issue" Baron Hangel said with a patronising smile.

"Do you have any magic support, Baron Hangel?" Epineh asked.

"Not since my court magician retired, I've notvyet replaced him" the Baron admitted, a sudden wary look in his eyes.

"I happen to be a talent magic-user," Epineh said. "Isn't that great?"

"But Princess.. " The Baron begin and Lady Alisha stepped in "I'm sure Her Higness just wishes to ensure that you gain the benefit of her talents and knowledge " she said in a conciliatory tone "Perhaps if she is present during your meeting she might see something we would otherwise miss"

The Baron looks unconvinced but eventually sighs "Of course your highness. If you would accompany us, we will have that meeting now"

"Very good, dear Baron. Please lead the way," Epineh said.

Baron Hangel nods and with a sigh leads the way to a smaller room, there is a table and chairs in the middle of the room, on the table there was a map of the area.

"Please take a seat, I'll have drinks and food brought up" he said taking a moment to talk to a servant and the returning to the group.

Epineh went quiet for now.

Hangel steeps up to the table "Our problem is both simple and complex. The merchants we depend on are being attacked with some regularity, thankfully few are killed. But the loss of goods is bad enough they strike seemingly at will and seem to know when we are looking for them.

They have struck over a large area here, here and here for example" The Baron indicates spots on the map along the main road leading to Almask but also side roads as well.

"I am hoping with the extra men you've brought we can increase patrols on the roads Sir Galden"

"Are they the same group or are there different ones?" Epineh asked.

"We think the same group, they seem very well organised and equipped" Count Elis who had been silent so far said "A lot of the reports mention them wearing red handbags, probably so they don't loose track of each other in a fight"

"What kind of numbers?" Epineh asked. "Do we know?"

The Baron looks at Count Elis "We've not had reports of more than a score at anyone time"

"Ah. That should be easy to deal with," Epineh said.

The Baron looked skeptical but asked "You have a suggestion your highness?"

"A fireball or two would certainly take them out," Epineh said.

The Baron chokes slightly at that "We would like to at least try to capture them, but that would be a fall back plan"

"I suppose that would be a good idea," Epineh said. "How are your men armed?"

"Our Guardsmen have spears and crossbows mostly. Easy to train them to use" Hangel replied "Your guards have better equipment of course"

Sir Galden spoke up "The Royal coffers are deeper of course, do you have any idea how they are choosing their targets?"

The Baron looked slightly embarrassed  "We believe there is a leak or spy in the merchants guild. They record and list expected deliveries "

"We could work on finding out who the spy is," Epineh said. "Like getting them to post a fake enticing shipment."

The Baron nods "Perhaps you would care to help with that? While we organise some patrols on the roads?"

"I suppose I could, do have a sample one on hand?" Epineh asked.

"We can supply you with examples, but we also need to narrow down the suspects. Could you power's help with that?" Baron Hangel asked.

"I'm sure they can," Epineh said.

"Then we shall leave this rask in your capable hands" the Baron said

Epineh thought for a minute as looked over an authentic manifest. Casting a few bits of magic, some prestidigitation and such, she managed to write up a fake manifest. It had several things on it. A shipment of weapons and armour as well as a few of her older fancy dresses to be auctioned off.

"That should do it!" she said. "Can I see what the guild hall looks like? Oh! And do you have any suspects already?"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:44, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

"We don't have a suspect per say. But it's likely someone who works in the central office and has access to the manifests" Count Elis replied as behind him Baron Hangel and Sir Galden conversed.

"We'll  have someone escort you to the guildhall" he promised and a liveried footman quickly appears and leads you towards the Merchants Guildhouse.

"I'll do my best to find someone," Epineh said.

You enter the guildhouse and keeping your head down manage to register the fraudulent shipment and then retreat from the bustle to a place you can cast the invisibility spell.

The bustle of the guildhouse continues around you, merchants trying to get loads registered or into warehouses, clerks and scribes trying to keep up with the flow of information.

[ooc: Perception check please]

(OOC: Perception check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 14 using 1d20+2)

It's about 20m8ns later you see a clerk rise from his desk and carefully make his way past where the new deliveries are registered and palms one of the copies made of your fake load, and then make his way towards an exit, glancing about nervously.

Epineh followed the man.

He dissapears out the door and winds through the streets before arriving at what seems to be a small shop selling hot food. He orders something and as he pays he slips the sheet of paper to the vendor.

Dei stayed back and watched invisibility. She'd do this all day if she had to.

The clerk headed back towards the guild House of seemed and a few hours later,  a new figure slipped out the shop and raced towards the edge of the city.

[OOC: You've had to use 2 more hours worth of invisibility. Give me an athletics check to see how closely you can follow]

(OOC: athletics check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 11 using 1d20-1)

It's not easy to keep up, you are close to running at full tilt and have to dodge around people who can't see you. But you are just about able to keep the runner in sight as he leaves the city, and moves to a copse nearby where a group of about 6 rough, looking men and women seem to be waiting for them

"What you got this time?" One of the ask "Better be worth it if you expect any coin"

Epineh tried to catch her breath quietly as she watched.

The figure you had been following hands the paper over "Armour, weapons, some fancy dresses worn by that empty headed excuse of a princess" They said their voice had a musical lilt to it.

"Seems like a good haul to me" they added as the man grabbed the paper and examined it "Fine, we'll take it" he said and tossed a coin pouch to the figure you had been following.

"We'll hit them at the Cross roads, armour and weapons will be heavy and it's close to camp"

Epineh made mental note of everything.

The slight figure shrugged "You do what you want, I'm just in this for the coin" they said and turned and began to head back to the city.

Epineh headed back for the baron's house.

You arrive back to find that the meeting has ended some of the royal guardsmen have already been dispatched to begin a patrol.

Lady Alisha quickly accosts you "Where have you been? I was worried you'd run off to do something foolish"

"I found out a ton of stuff. I need to talk with the Baron and everyone," Epineh said, heading inside.

Lady Alisha bows slightly "I will see if I can arrange something" she said and hurried off. A short time later she returned with Baron Hangel, Count Elis and Sir Galden in tow and you reconvened in the same room you previously met him in.

"Your lady tells us you think you found something?" the Baron asked in an unconvinced tone.

"Yes, I have found out who has been helping the bandits within the guild, set up a potential ambush and have a general idea where their base is," Epineh said before explaining.

The Barons skeptical expression faded "That's...unexpectedly useful" he finally conceded, as he turned and pulled out a map showing the attacks. "There is a crossroads.." he traced the path of the road "Here" he said pointing to the spot "There has been attacks by it before, but its far enough out we've not searched the area"

"We could have a fake shipment while another group looks for their base," Epineh said.

Baron Hangel nods firmly "This does seem a good chance to smash these Bandits once and for all" he agreed and then bowed deeply to Ephineh "Thank you, your highness your help has been invaluable"

"You're welcome. I like to help. I'm think that once we finish with this and I head back to the castle. I actually send some of my dresses here for an auction to raise some money to make up what was lost for the city. At least partially," Epineh said.

The Baron bows again in acknowledgment "As you wish your highness" he straightened "I think it will take at least a day to set things in motion"

"I'm excited to deal with the bandits. I haven't fought any before," Epineh said.

"You are intending to go with one of the parties?" The Baron asked looking a bit worried at the prospect.

"No? I was hoping to lead from the front," Epineh said.

"While I think your powers may be useful. I'm not sure that the front is the best place for you" The Baron said in a pained voice. "If you are to join one of the parties we would all feel better if you stayed with the main body of troops" the other occupants of the room nodded their agreement.

"Which set of troops did you intend to join? The ones at the crossroads or those looking for the camp?"

"Well, not literally from the front. I am a sorcerer after all," Epineh said. "And the one looking for the camp."

"You'll forgive me your highness. But you are young, and the young can often be excitable " The Baron said.

Lady Alisha spoke up "I'll go with her Baron, I'll keep her from doing anything too foolish"

"I don't need a babysitter," Epineh muttered.

Lady Alisha didn't seem to hear but smiled at Ephineh "Perhaps we should retire then? It sounds like there is preparation to do before we march"

"Certainly," Epineh said. "It's been a long day."

You head to the rooms that had been prepared for you and once you were there Lady Alisha turns to you "So exactly what are you thinking Ephnieh?" She asked watching you with an appraising expression.

"They don't have any magic back up and they clearly need help," Epineh said.

Alisha holds Epineh's eyes for a long moment and then nods "Good, at least you have the right reason for doing this"

"...and it's exciting too...," Epineh said. "I can't help that part!"

Alisha laughed "True enough I suppose. But exciting as it is you do need to get some proper rest" she said indicating the bed in a firm tone.

"Yes, yes," Epineh said, getting into bed.

You fall asleep and awaken refreshed the next day, Alisha is already up and is preparing her equipment. "We need to head down to the town centre as soon as you are ready. The troops are assembled"

Epineh hurried to get ready and go.

You soon arrive down at the square where the troops are drawn up ready, Count Elis turns and bows to you. "Highness, do you wish to address the troops before we move out?"

"Everyone, today we shall deal with an evil that is plaguing this community. It will be a difficult task, but if we work together, the evil will not be able to stand against us! It is time to make your loved ones and the crown proud of you!" Epineh said.

The men begin to cheer and wave their weapons in the air, and Count Elis allows them to continue for a moment before gesturing "Then let us be about it. Forward March!"

It takes about half the day to get close to where the cross-roads are, and the Count calls a halt while the troop splits to go about its assigned tasks. The Count bows "Good luck Princess" he said as he joined the part of the troop that would be dealing with the ambush at the crossroads.

"Good luck as well," Epineh said

Your party makes its way to the nearby woods and begins to spread out as they carefully search for the possible Bandit base.

"Do you have any magic that can help, Alisha?" Epineh asked. "I have nothing."

"My magic isn't suited to that I'm afraid Highness" Alisha said "We'll just have to use our eyes and ears like the rest"

[OOC: Perception Roll]

(OOC: Perception Check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 18 using 1d20+2)

You are the first spot what looks to be a trail leading deeper unto the woods.

"There is a trail here," Epineh said.

Several of the nearby soldiers head your way and begin to follow the trail "Well spotted highness" one of them says as they pass.

Epineh follows.

The path winds through the woods and eventually leads to a small hillock with a shallow cave in one side a handful lying of bandits lounge around outside it.

"This probably isn't their base, right? It seems kind of small," Epineh said.

"It might be where they operate from, they'd have to be sending the goods else where to sell" Lady Alisha suggested.

"We better take them, we have superior numbers so they should surrender," Epineh said.

Lady Alisha nods "We can but hope, who should speak for us?"

"I could do it!" Epineh said.

Alisha sighs and almost covers her face "You're father is going to kill me" she mutters quietly to herself " I doubt I could stop you know, just remember you need to be authoritative but also be ready in case they do something stupid"

Epineh nodded as she stepped out, casting mage armour on herself.

"Bandits, surrender now, you have been surrounded. Throw down your weapons!"

The bandits look up in shock and gasp as Epineh appears "Where'd she come from" one gasps as another grabs a bow and fits an arrow to it "Looks like it's just you, why don't you surrender before ya get hurt" he grinned evily.

"This would be the signal for everyone else," Epineh said.

The guards and Lady Alisha stepped out of the treeline and the Bandits quailed at the sight.

The one with the bow glances about then drops it with a sigh holding his hands up, the others quickly follow suit.

"Now then, the first one to answer questions will get a merciful sentence," Epineh said.

The bandits glance sullenly at each other but then the wannabe bowman straightens and speaks "I'll take that offer"

"First question: This place seems kind of small to be your headquarters. What's the deal with it?" Epineh asked.

"It's where we sleep n stuff when we're out here" the Bandit said "Anything we take is kept here and then sent off once a week. New folk come to replace those that got themselves killed"

"How many people are in the gang and who is the leader?" Epineh asked.

The bandit looked uncertain "Never seen the boss, don't know guess he's were ever the stuff goes. There is probably about 40 of us out here. Half here, half at the other camp"

"Other camp? Can you guards handle the rest of this?" Epineh asked. "I feel we should probably help the fake transport group."

The lead guard saluted "Yes, highness" and ordered the other guards testator securing the Bandits.

You and Alisha head towards the crossroads, when you get close you can hear the sounds of battle.

"I hope they're doing fine," Epineh said.

Alisha nods "I'm sure we are but we should hurry"

Epineh hurried on.

You finally reach the crossroads and find the guards under attack by a large group of bandits, they have split in two half are fighting the Guardsmen and keeping them away from the carts, the other half are trying to make off with carts.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:27, Thu 27 Jan 2022.

Epineh pointed at several of the bandits, magic misses heading for them.

(OOC: Up casting magic missile to 3rd level and shooting as many as I can, of the ones fighting the guards.)

The Bandits barely have time to react before the missiles slam home punching several of them off their feet. The Guardsmen seem to take heart in the sudden intervention and launch a swift counter attack repulsing the Bandits attacking them.

The ones around the cart seem to have decided that things are not likely to work out well for them and try to flee with the carts, a few keep themselves between you and Alisha, and the cart.

Epineh cast shatter looking to destroy the carts, but leave everyone and the horses alive.

The spell takes a moment to take effect, but then a a peal of thunder echos across the battlefield and the cats explode in a shower of splinters.

A few bandits near the explosion fall to the ground crying in pain as the splinters hit them, the ones fortunate enough to be outside the radius of the effect turn and gasp in shock. Most drop thier weapons and look to be giving up but a small cluster instead charge towards you.

"No, damnit we're too close to give up now. Get the mage! We can turn this around"

[ooc: Initiative please]

(OOC: Initiative roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 5 using 1d20)

The 3 bandits move towards you, two skid to a halt about 20ft away and aim crossbows at you, one bolt goes wide the other catches cutting your arm as it hisses spitfully by.

The last the one that had yelled gets closer about 15ft and flings a knife that catches you in the shoulder.

Alisha snarls something and sends a glowing bolt into one of the crossbow wielding bandits knocking him to the ground with a startled cry.

[ooc: You take 8 dmg. your action]

Epineh cast shatter at the bandits that attacked her, catching as many as she could.

(OOC: Shatter damage - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 12 using 3d8. Gonna spend a sorcery point to reroll 2 of the dice, but keep the 8. Getting a 4 and 7, so that is 19 total)

The other crossbowman is knocked down by the blast the leader staggers onwards towards Ephine and tries to throw a dagger but misses.

Lady Alisha steps up by you and chants a spell, you feel a surge of power well through you as she finishes the spell.

[ooc: Alisha uses Raidant defense on you. you're up]

Epineh cast magic missile targeting the leader.

(OOC: Damage - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 12 using 3d4+3)

The bandit staggered back a few steps under the impact but closed the range and swung his blade at you, which you were able to dodge.

But a sudden strike from the seeming endless supply of daggers the bandit carried surprised you his cry of triumph a howl of pain, as bright fire fire leapt from the wound and struck him.

As he staggers back Alisha gestures and tiny sparks of light fall from the sky around the bandit flashing into searing flame where they touch him.

[ooc: You take 4 damage, he's looking very rough]

"I suggest you surrender or you will perish," Epineh said, gathering energy in her hand.

(OOC: Intimidate check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 7 using 1d20+5.)

The Bandit snarls "What's a little girl gonna do?" And lunges towards you blade held high. Suddenly Alisha is at your side and raises her shield high and blocks the blow, she let's go her mace and punches the bandit in the side of the head.

For a moment the bandit staggers, then his eyes rolled into the back of his head and he collapses.

"Are you okay Ephine?" She asks a look of concern on her face.

"I'm fine," Epineh said. "We should check on the men."

Lady Alisha nods and follows you to where the Guardsmen are rounding up the sullen bandits.

Count Elis heads over to you and bows "Thank you for your timely assistance.  There were more of them than we expected "

"I'm just happy we got here in time," Epineh said.

"Yes, we were lucky, you found thier camp then?" The count asked as the bandits were made to sit under guard.

"We did. There was a small group guarding it and we left the rest of the guards to wrap things up there," Epineh said.

"Well hopefully that is the 3nd of this group then" Count Elis said "We'll take this lot, and the ones you caught back stand trial"

Epineh nodded and waited for the first group she was with to come back.

It was about 20mins later that the other Guardsmen returned escorting thier prisoners "We searched the cave but didn't find much, nothing they've taken, nor much gold" the leader of the guards reported.

"At least we stopped them," Epineh said.

Count Elis bows again "Yes, we've broken the back of these Bandits at least. It would have been good if we found where they keep thier I'll gotten gains"

"We can offer them chances to come clean in exchange for mercy during sentencing," Epineh said.

Count Elis nods "very true" he turned to the head Guardsmen "Let's get these prisoners back to the city" he ordered and the troop began to move off.

As you went Lady Alisha asked "How are your injuries?"

"Not that bad," Epineh said.

Alisha muttered a quick prayer and Ephine felt her wounds heal "Can't be having the princess bleeding everywhere"

"I'm sure there are soldiers hurt worse though," Epineh said.

Lady Alisha nods in understanding "When we get back to the city, I'll be aiding the healers"

Epineh nodded.

"Healing magic is really useful."

"It is" Lady Alisha said "But so was your gift. What do you think of these Bandits? It feels like they were more organised than I'd expect of them"

"It does, we don't have any information though," Epineh said.

"Hopefully they talk when they are questioned" Lady Alisha said "Do you intend to question any yourself?"

"It might be worth trying," Epineh said.

It takes most of the day but you eventually arrive back at the city the Baron is waiting to greet you all a large smile on his face" Well done all of you" his voice boomed "You've protected many people today"

Epineh nodded and headed to speak with the Baron.

"Your highness" Baron Hangel greeted Ephine as she closed the distance "I am glad you are well, and it seems you've returned victorious "

"Yes, I was wondering if I could get a chance to question some of the bandits. There are a few questions I have for them," Epineh said.

The Baron looked surprised but hid it well "Of course highness if that is your wish. It will take some time to process the prisoners. But we should be able to arrange it by tomorrow if that is acceptable?"

"It is," Epineh said. "Could you have a bath made ready for me?"

"Of course" The Baron said and nodded summoning a servant to see to it "It should be ready shortly" he explained "Do you require anything else?"

"No, I think I'll be good," Epineh said.

The Baron nods and moves to talk to the waiting count and lead Guardsmen, leaving Ephine and Alisha to head towards the Barons Manor.

Servants are waiting as you arrive "Your bath is ready higness" one says bowing "Your meal is also ready when you are"

"Thank you," Epineh said, heading for a nice relaxing soak.

You are able to enjoy a relaxing evening and a restful night's sleep, its mid-morning when one of the Baron Hangel's servants approaches your rooms to let you know that you can question the Bandits.

Epineh followed the servant.

Alishas follows and you are lead to a barracks block being used to house the bandits. Sir Galden meets you at the entrance "I understand that you wish to interview some of the prisoners. Do you have a preference on who you wish to talk to?"

"No, I do not," Epineh said.

"Very well, we'll pick someone" the Knight said leading Ephine and Alisha into a small room with a table and a few chairs in. Alisha declines to sit standing off to one side leaning against the wall.

Sir Galden returns shortly thereafter leading a bound bandit, and non too gently sitting him in one of the chairs. "I'll be just outside if you need anything" he said before withdrawing.

The bandit looked about nervously "What do you want? I ain't saying noffin"

"Even if it could help you?" Epineh asked.

The Bandit looked up sharply at Ephine at that "Help me how?"

"If you answer a few questions for me, I can make sure you get a more lenient sentence," Epineh said.

The man considered that for a moment "I'll listen at least" he said finally "But some answers might cost you more"

"Did we capture your actual leader or is he still free?" Epineh asked.

"The big man wasn't stupid enough to be at the camps" The Bandit said "We got people sent to us, and we sent the goods back somewhere else"

"Who is the big man?" Epineh asked.

"Don't know the name. Well dressed rich fella though. Thought he was too good to be seen with the likes of us" the bandit replies.

"Where did you meet him?" Epineh asked.

The Bandit looked aside shiftily "When we got hired. We were gathered someplace else first then sent to the forward camps. The big man had men out all over looking for muscle"

"Can you tell me anything about the big man? Maybe a signet ring he was wearing or something?" Epineh asked.

"I can tell you were the main camp is" The Bandit offered "But its gonna cost ya. I want a pardon, and some gold. 'Cause if it gets out I told ya that I reckon I'm a dead man"

"Fine. Full pardon and fifty gold," Epineh said.

The Bandit grinded widely "There is an abandoned quarry about 3 days travel north of the crossroads" he explained "That's we were gathered before being sent to the smaller camps, and that's were the loot is kept"

"I'll let the Baron know about out deal," Epineh said signaling the guard.

The guard enters and collects the bandit "Do you want to talk to anyone else highness?"

"No, I believe that will be all. I do need to speak with the baron about what I learned," Epineh said.

"As you wish, Highness" the guard said and led the Bandit away.

You return to the Barons Manor and find him in his office going through some paperwork "Princess, how did your investigation go?" He asked as you entered.

Epineh explained what she learned.

"That these bandits had a powerful backer is concerning. I'm not entirely happy with giving any of these rogues a pardon but I'll accept it as a price to be paid" Hangel said "We will need to confirm his information as soon as possible and be ready to mount a expedition "

"I am ready to go as soon as possible," Epineh said.

"You want to be part of the scouting mission? I'm not sure if anything happened to you" Baron Hangel started "But I suppose your powers might come in useful"

"I believe that it would," Epineh said.

"I'm not sure what your father is going to say about all this" The Baron said with a sigh.

"What he does not know will not hurt him," Epineh said sweetly.

"I fear one day you'll be the death of me princess" Baron Hangel chuckled "very well we shall prepare a patrol to go with you"

Epineh smiled innocently.

That afternoon you met the patrol, a half a dozen men and women in rugged looking clothing and long cloaks, all carry bows and quivers. "Your highness" one them greets you a women with mismatched eyes. "I understand you are to be accompanying us on this mission?"

"I am," Epineh said. "Let us make haste to hopefully catch this 'noble'."

Late on the second day of the journey you the leader of the patrol, who you had learnt was called Glendara signalled a halt, the gestured for you to join her at the front "You see that Highness?" She said quietly indicating a distance ahead.

[ooc: Perception roll please]

(OOC: Perception check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 10 using 1d20+2)

It takes you a long moment to spot thwhat Glendara was talking about and just as you sense she was about to point it out you see movement ahead.

You indicate it and Glendara nods "Yeah looks like a patrol of some kind, now I now the Baron doesn't have any patrols out this far, which suggests they might be related to the place we're looking for"

"Is this still the Barons lands?" Epineh asked.

Glenadara nods "Yes it's on the edge of his territory though"

"Should we go speak with them?" Epineh asked.

"I think they are unlikely to talk willing highness" Glendara said differentially "But I think we may wish to either capture one or follow them"

"Ah, then we should follow them then," Epineh said.

Glendara looked at Ephineh and considered for a moment "As you wish highness" she replied and then signalled her troops forward.

"Is that a foolish thing to do?" Epineh asked.

Glendara shrugs "Foolish or not will depend on if it works, would any of your magic help to stop them noticing us?"

"I can follow them on foot invisibly and then occasionally send up a signal for you to follow," Epineh said, beginning to cast the spell.

Glendara nods and you quickly cast the spell and begin to follow the maybe bandits at a distance. They seem to doing a slow loop, keeping an eye out for anyone heading in thier direction.

Epineh's plan was to follow them and occasionally cast Minor Illusion to let the guards know.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:43, Fri 11 Feb 2022.

You follow them until night fall when they seem to stop to make camp, you notice Glendara has stopped a short distance away with her troop behind a small hillock.

Epineh headed over towards her and dropped her spell.

Glendara looked less surprised than you might expect "Your powers are incredible highness" she looked in the direction  of the bandits "Do we follow them tomorrow as well?" She asked.

"We should see where they're headed, right?" Epineh asked. "This is my first time doing this."

The women nods "You're doing well highness" the ranger reassured Ephine "We'll set up a watch so we can follow them in the morning "

"Right, then I can follow them like that again," Epineh said.

The night passes without incident and Ephine finds herself awoken by Lady Alisha and Glendara about a hour before dawn.

"The bandits seem to be preparing to move" They reported "Are you ready?"

"Ready" Epineh said, getting ready to cast her spell.

You cast the spell and begin to follow them, you quickly notice that they seem much less alert this time, joking around with each other and horsing about, it's hard to not think you could follow even without the spell.

Epineh did so, but kept the spell ready just in case.

You follow the band for a couple of hours, the terrain gets more rocky and in the distance you can seem some ramshackle structures.

[ooc: stealth roll please]

Epineh cast an invisibility spell.

You notice one of the bandits glance in your direction, but you are quick enough to cast the spell before he realises he has seen anything.

You arrive at the quarry finally to see that it is indeed occupied by a large number of individuals, most seem to be bandits.

But off to one side slightly away from the bandits you spot a few tents on their own, armoured figures stand guard by them, and a banner flies from the largest tent.

Epineh went closer to investigate the banner and see who it could be.

You carefully move along the lip of the quarry until you can get a better look.

[ooc: History roll please]

(OOC: History check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 6 using 1d20+4)

You examine the banner banner but you can't  make it out well enough from you currrent vantage point to tell who it belongs to.

Epineh decided to go in closer.

You slowly move closer, having to move carefully due the guards.

[ooc: You can make a history roll again, but going to need a stealth with adv]

(OOC: Stealth roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 10,11 using d20,d20. History roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 18 using 1d20+4)

You identify the banner as belonging to Count Lecort a vassal of Duke Anton but there lands are far from here. Ephine also notices a guard looking suspiciously in her direction but hasn't yet reacted.

Epineh decided to retreat while her invisibility was still up.

You are able to retreat back the way you come, and the guard who might of noticed you seems to relax again.

As you head back you mull over what you know of Duke Anton and Count Lecort, The Anton's are one of the 4 great families that serve the crown, you know that they had hoped to marry a daughter to your father before he left to find your mother, but haven't tried again yet this generation.

The count you know less about, but from what you do know. The Lecort family has served the Anton's for many generations.

Epineh went straight for Glendara to report.

Glendara was waiting and looked worried "We were wondering where you had got to highness. We were about to go looking for you"

"Sorry, big news! This is huge!" Epineh said, telling them about what she found out.

"That is concerning" Glendara said, and Lady Alisha nodded in agreement "we must make sure this news gets to the Baron and your Father"

"Yes. We'll also need more men to be able to take them," Epineh said.

"Then we leave and come back" Glendara said "Unless you have any suggestions highness?"

"I don't know. How fast could we get back here with soldiers?" Epineh asked.

"If they came straight in? It's about three days to the city, a day to muster the troops and 3 more back. So a week" Glendara said "some could make it quicker but not many"

"I suppose I can try distracting them with my magic while the rest of you sneak around them," Epineh said. "Or perhaps at the tents with that traitor..."

Glendara and Alisha shared a look "If you wish princess. Perhaps we should still send two of my men back? Just in case" Glendara suggested.

"Ah! That is a good idea," Epineh said.

Gelndara nods and sel3cts two of her rangers giving each of them a note describing what they had found.

After they left she turned to Ephineh and nodded "I think you're right the tents should be our goal" she said,

"Then should we do it all together?" Epineh asked.

"With so few it may be wise" Glendara said "Can your magic create a distraction for us?"

"A fireball certainly would," Epineh said.

Glendara fell silent for a moment "That would certainly do it. Especially if you find something they won't want burnt"

"They have fancy tents!" Epineh said.

"They do highness but we need to search those tents for evidence of what they've been doing. Maybe their store of loot or something?" Glendara suggested.

"Ah, that makes sense," Epineh said. "Do you see a likely building?"

Glendara sneaks forward and then looks down at the quarry and then I dictates some buildins at one end. "Those seem to be guarded, something valuable must be there"

"Right. I'm gonna sneak up invisibility and then fireball it," Epineh said.

Glendara looked like she wanted to sat something for a moment then she looked at Lady Alisha and shrugged and moved to ready her remaining soldiers.

Lady Alisha gave you a firm nod "You've grown a lot, just make sure you get out of there after you use the fireball" she said.

Epineh nodded and cast her spell to go and do just that.

You begin to move through the quarry towards your target, the Bandits don't seem to be paying too much attention, mostly drinking, eating and occasionally fighting among themselves.

[ooc: give me a skill you can justify to get to your target point undetected]

(OOC: Stealth roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 2 using 1d20)

You carefully move through the quarry and are nearing the point from where you wanted to launch the fireball. When you slip on some loose gravel and collide with a stack of spears, that clatter to the ground.

A nearby bandit rouses himself from a stupor and looks in the direction "What zat?" as he mumbles as he climbs to his feet and heads in your direction.

Epineh hurried out of the way.

The man stumbles over to the fallen spears and glances about scratching at his head "werid... musta been the wind" he mumbled and started to restack the spears, still glancing about.

Epineh waited a moment before continuing.

The man looks blearly around before slowly returning to his previous position, but this time as he drinks his eyes keep flicking around.

Epineh continues slowly, at least until she was in position for the fireball.

It takes a bit longer but you finally are in the position you had chosen. There are no bandits too close to you, so you think that you've got a good chance to escape after casting.

Epineh cast the spell and began running.

You incant the spell and the fireball forms in your hand, and you throw the small spec of light that grows and grows as it arcs towards the sheds.

One of the guards standing outside the buildings looks up in horror for a moment and then starts to run screaming. There is a dull whoomp as the fireball strikes home and the sheds sstart to burn merrily.

The drunken bandit suddenly stands up and stares in your direction "Hang on you're not meant to be hear" he cries in surprise as you start running.

Epineh said nothing, running as fast as she can.

You can hear men shouting as they rush to deal with the fire "Our loot!", "Fetch water!", "Put it out now".

Only one bandit seemed to be paying you any attention, as he stumbled after you.

Epineh tried looking out for the rest of the party.

You spot the rest moving towards the tents engaging the two guards, one of the guards drops as an arrow hits his throat.

Epineh headed for her scout group.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:15, Mon 21 Feb 2022.

"Good work highness" Glendara greeted you as the other guard falls "We'll have to make a quick sweep of these tents we don't have much time"

"Right. I'll be ready with some magic," Epineh said.

Glendara details 2 of her warriors to search each of the smaller tents and heads into the largest one herself, Lady Alisha stays by Epineh "Should we follow?" she asked

"I think we should," Epineh said.

You enter the tent and find the inside is finely decorated, fur rugs cover the ground, an actual wooden bed takes up about 1/4 of the space. Armour racks, weapon racks and chests are arranged around the edges and one side of the bed sits a large table and several chairs.

Glendara is leaning over the table examining some documents.

"They got away or they were never here," Epineh said.

"If they fled it was in a hurry" Glendara said tapping a finger on the documents "These are lists of supplies given to the bandits and loot taken, these on the other hand" she taps another set of papers "seem to be lists of merchants to target. Someone put a lot of effort into this operation"

"Since a noble is behind this, I'm not surprised," Epineh said.

Glendara gathered the papers "This is at least evidence we can use" she said glancing around and listening "It sounds like the bandits might have noticed something is happening" she looked at the chests "We might be able to find something before they get here... if we're quick"

Epineh went to take a look at the chest.

[OOC: Investigation Roll please]

You start to dig through the chest it mostly seems to be full of clothes and personal affects.

(OOC: Investigation roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 19 using 1d20+1)

At first the clothes and personal effects are all you find. But you notice that the bottom of the inside of the chest is higher than the outside and quickly realize that there is a secret compartment in the chest.

Inside you find a scroll and a signet ring.

"I found something!" Epineh said, holding the items out excitedly.

Glendara eyes the items "I think that is the counts crest is it not?" she said pickup up the ring and examining it. The crest on the ring does seem to be the same as on the banners.

"As for the scroll..." she said and stopped "That's impossible.." she said staring at the seal on the scroll.

"What is it?" Epineh asked.

She handed Epineh the scroll the seal embossed on it was that of Duke Aston one of the most powerful men in the kingdon.

"Wow. Oh wow. This is serious," Epineh said.

There was a noise outside "Looks like the Bandits have realized something is up" Glendara said "We can work out what to do after we get out of here" she said drawing her bow and heading outside.

Epineh followed, ready to cast a spell if needed.

You step outside to find a small battle being waged about 6 Bandits are attacking your group, one seems to be in charge and is yelling orders.

[OOC: Init Roll please]

(OOC: Initiative roll - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 18 using 1d20)

[OCC: you're up

Epineh quickly cast a spell sending out darts of pure magic.

(OOC: Upcasting magic missile to 3rd level for 5 missiles. Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 5,2,4,5,5)

The bolts quickly fly out and dart towards the Bandits two of them fall to ground with cries of pain and don't get up.

Glendara and the other rangers engage several of the other Bandits arrows and bolts hissing through the air between them.

The one who'd be gesturing and barking orders glares at you and moves towards you, rapidly closing the distance "You're gonna pay for what you did!" he yelled.

Lady Alisha steps up beside you and chants a prayer and you feel the magic flowing into you, offering retribution for those that would strike you.

Epineh quickly cast a spell at the man charging her.

(OOC: Going for a frostbite cantrip. Con save DC 17 or takes 6 damage and dis advantage on the weapon attack.)

The spell takes effect and the man crys out in pain but still closes the gap and takes a series of swings at Ephine with a mace.

Despite the biting cold his first blow connects but a flas of divineenergy flashes from Ephineh and strikes her attacker, but his follow up went wide surpised by the attack.



[OOC: You take 4 dmg, the Thug looks very rough]

"I suggest you surrender!" Epineh said.

(OOC: Intimidate check - Epineh Alena Grimmory Ashmore rolled 8 using 1d20+5)

The man was breathing heavily and grinned "Hah, no I know what would happen if I did. I'd prefer to die on my feet" he growled and attacked again but due to his pain the attacks went wide.

Epineh cast magic missile, sending them at the man.

The man falls still grinning as the missiles hit, a quick glance around shows the others have won their battle and you have a chance to withdraw before the main group of Bandits can attack.

"I think we should leave," Epineh said.

Glendara nodded "Okay you head the princess withdraw!" she commanded and the group headed out of the quarry.

Epineh followed as well as she could.

You regroup in a copse a short distance away from the quarry. Glendara looked in the direction they had come "We don't seem to have been followed" she said after a few minutes.

"We have to get back to the city and quickly," Epineh said. "This is so huge."

"Agreed Highness" Glendara said and after a quick rest ordered everyone to move out towards the city.

It takes two days before you get back to the city. A quick word with the guards sees Ephineh, Glendara and Lady Alisha talking to the Baron and his council.

"I understand that your mission was successful?" the Baron asked.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:41, Thu 24 Feb 2022.

"Yes, we have found something of deep concern. We have found evidence that some nobles of this country have been working against it," Epineh said.

"That is troubling. What did you find?" The Baron asked looking at Ephineh intently.

Epineh explains what they found and hands over the evidence.

The Baron examines the evidence "Then it seems you must get to your father as soon as possible." Hangel said returning the items "I will write a letter supporting your conclusion"

"Thank you, I will do just that," Epineh siad.

It takes about half a day to prepare your transport and guards, as you make to leave Baron Hangel arrives to see you off "Gods speed you princess and whatever happens you have a firm ally here. I'm not sure we could have beaten this without your help"

"You are welcome, lord," Epineh said. "It was part of my duties."

The Baron bows again and your carriage sets off back towards the capital city and your father.