It was mid morning on this Sunday in late Calistril; though the Sun could barely be seen peaking out from behind clouds, that were they at a higher elevation might indicate snow. Instead here on the Foam River in Darkwood Vale; they only indicates rain. Looking at the cordwood streets it looked as if that had already occurred.

The Ferry was coming across with  only a few travellers this morn. A Peddler and his wagon pulled by two mules. A couple of sells words by their look, talking of employment with the Lumber Consortium, and finally 3 others. A dwarf, with weaponry commensurate with someone familiar with them, and looking quite strong. A wild eyed elf looking out of place, and another woman who kept her hood up and was carefully scanning the upcoming dock.

To the right of the dock, inside the stout lumber walls, stood a squat tower.   Ahead was a building that had the look of a town hall. And in front of it a square ...well square wasnt accurate, more like an open area where signs of a market could be seen by the wooden beams sticking out of the ground and the lines run between them. However there was no market this day.

Across from the town hall was an Inn. The sign out front read 'Jak-A-Napes' and the smell of fresh baked goods assailed their nostrils

further down the street a small line of burly men stood outside a building near the door. A few guards stood watching the line. That road turned and went up a small hill to cross inside another stockade, though it also continued outside.

Off the market area to the left another cordwood street headed, the logs fit quite close together and dug into the street to provide safety from mud. The steeple of a temple was in that direction as well as the noise that claimed this a Lumber town. The sound of axes and saws could be heard from the cutyard.

The smell of wet sawdust was in the air. As the ferry. Moved up to the dock
------------

Inside Jak-A-Napes, being the only Inn in town, things were warm from the smouldering fireplace as waitresses moved about the tables bring food and drink to those residing inside, though some locals came to eat some of the best cooking in Falcons Hollow.

Upstairs, 3 fairly recent additions to the town stirred in their rooms. All had taken private rooms instead of sharing the common room in the attick with hammocks and chests for gear, though that was available for less money.

In the damp air a few merchants were loading wagons destined elsewhere. A few citizens moved about on the streets, but for those having been in larger cities, it paled in comparison. However for folks not accustomed to civilization, this frontier town would seem positively overrun.

This began what NOONE had any idea of what would be salvation for this little community.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:41, Thu 02 Mar 2023.

A possible storm arrives at Falcon's Hollow.

Larannia stands upon the dock, absent mindedly adjusting the wooden shield attached to her backpack. The druid's sky-blue eyes scanned the new surroundings. The first difference was the many people. Most were walking to get someplace else or carrying crates of items to take into the town. Then there was the noise. Many people talking to each other, creating a constant buzzing sound. Over that, she could hear the sounds of chopping and a strange whining sound coming from the distance. But it was the smells that affected her the most. Many different unknown smells assaulted her nose. From the stench of many unwashed bodies to the aroma of spices and freshly cut wood.

The Elder had told her a little about the Laws of Man and how important it was not to stand out and draw attention to oneself. That was why the young druid had washed off the tribal paint from her face and the hide armor she wore covered most of her tattoos. This was possible enemy territory. Like being in the forest, one had to find a way to blend in.

Larannia gnashed her teeth in irritation. She already hated this town. It was only here to exploit the forest nearby, cutting down trees just to gain some metal coins. The same metal coins she held in a small pouch attached to a belt she wore. Again, The Elder told her that people needed the metal coins to survive in the cities of man and she would need to make more metal coins to help accomplish the main mission.

The druid took a calming breath to settle her anger. There was nothing she could do to stop the town from cutting down trees from the nearby forest. The vision she received from the deity Gozreh was far more important at this time. The first thing she would need to do was start working. Along the way, try to gain as much information as possible, get better gear, items, and strong allies to help.

Defeating a Dragon would not be an easy task.

After taking a deep breath and giving a slight nod to herself, Larannia felt determined and proceeded into the settlement called Falcon's Hollow.

The squat cloaked figure stepped off the ferry. The heavy chains of his warflail clinking as he moved. He looked up at the menacing clouds and uttered a quiet groan. Gorluk was bewildered by how the surface races managed living at the mercy of a fickle, unforgiving sky. He takes note of the elf woman who appeared equally uncomfortable with the surroundings and speculated that she shared his immediate goals. After securing his pouch containing the few coins left to his name, he proceeded towards the logging town.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:16, Mon 27 Feb 2023.

"...And thus it can only be said that Falcon's Hollow is the starting point, not the ending point for my journey. I am staying in room 3 of the Jak-a-Napes, and eagerly await in any assistance you can send. For now I will find work to increase my coinage in order to continue my efforts. Signed Academically Yours, Efeygian Aliker III"

Helican finished narrating his letter to his patron at the school aloud as he wrote it and signed his name at the bottom in wide sweeping letters. The candle light danced across the slightly yellowed paper as he blew on it to dry the ink. He then tri folded the paper and sealed it with waxed from the melted candle. He knew he'd have to spend several silver to get this delivered to the school, but it would be worth it if they handed over more funds for his 'expedition'. In the mean time he was serious about having to find work as he was down to his last few silver pieces, and the price of the private room at the inn wasn't cheap.

A cold draft pushed through the window and he wrapped himself tighter in his cloak as he moved over to look out. The rain had stopped, which was good, that meant he could go out after he got himself a bowl of hot soup from downstairs. He gathered his traveling pack and weaponry, always better to be prepared, stuffed the letter in a side pocket of the backpack before opening the door and heading downstairs to the main room of the inn. He approached the innkeeper at the front desk and smiled.

"Good day. I was wondering if you might know where I might post a letter with a courier?"

Sitting on the bed, Hal was slowly sharpening his bastard sword, the familiar repettive motion letting him slip into a semi meditative state as he worked. He'd woken up early, he had begun taking care of his equipment, making sure his chainmail was rust free and his pack and equipment was still packed securely. He knew it would be, but his father had been adamant during his upbringing, take care of your things and they would take care of you. Of course he'd usually been talking about a plow or a pitchfork, but Hal figured the sentiment was the same. Checking the edge again, he nodded to himself and began oiling the blade.

Now that he'd completed one part of his morning routine, he put the sword to one side and got down on one knee.
"Dawnflower, grant me Your light, that I might see the path before me. Your flame, that I might have the strength to walk it. Your mercy, that I might grant redemption to those still in darkness".
Sitting quietly for a minute, Hal sighed and got back up, walking over to the wash basin.

Clean, he pulled on a shirt, and walked downstairs, heading for the innkeeper, Time for some breakfast.

The dwarf and the elf are the first two off the ferry. Then the peddler starts guiding his wagon off.

The two pause near each other looking around. Through the few buildings, that look like fishermens homes by the netting and oars and such leaning or hanging outside, they see the market area and now they can also make out a general store off to the left across a street from the Inn.

a Couple of crossbow bearing guards walk towards the two newcomers. One of them barks out. hey. hold up. what brings you to The Hollow?

------------
Helican approaches the stout woman standing behind the bar who smiles and runs her thick hand through her graying hair and smiles at the rogueish scholar saying hello Helican. good to see you. are the accomodations to your liking? then as he asks questions she nods and extends a hand. I can take care of that. couriers stop in all the time here. where is it going, that will determine how much.

From the stairs Hal sees a scholarly looking man at the bar talking to Jak. crimmy. He'd seen around since he arrived. He always seemed to be writing things in a book or asking questions about the history of the Vale. However there was an edge about him...something about how he always looked around or walked on the balls of his feet. Hal started for the bar.

Marianna followed her nose along to the tavern, strolling quietly and studiously. Entering the tavern, she pulled the hood back, exposing her identity clearly; with her dark red skin, vivid eyes, and ebon hair. The tips of her ram-like horns are capped in silver, with a thin decorative chain across them. It's the only 'fashionable' attire she has, with the robe on her back a pedestrian and functional off-white.

Seeing how busy the establishment was, she clasped her hands together in front of her, watching the servers ply their trade, eyeing the contents of each and every plate to figure what she might be interested in having, or if she could offer her own skills in the back.

OOC: Marianna has the Cook background
This message was last edited by the player at 21:27, Tue 28 Feb 2023.

As the cloaked figure quickly squeezed past the peddlers wagon and moved past the dwarf and elf, the two guards glanced at her and one said firmly stop. what's your business in the Hollow

Helican smiled back at the stout woman with the graying hair, "Almas, I've written the address and attention there on the front. I know it's a long ways" Helican slid the letter across the counter lingering a few moments with his forefinger before tapping it twice. "As for the accommodations, there was a particularly loud metallic sound in the room next to mine I believe, but the bed was one of the finest I've slept in. You're practically giving away luxury" he smiled again and then looked about the tavern briefly before shifting his weight to the other foot, a tactic he used to train himself to always he was reflexive to his environment.

Quietly waiting his turn, Hal looked around at the rest of the inn for any newcomers. He'd always liked to people watch, trying to gauge who they were, where they were from, that sort of thing. Just made it more fun to see if he'd guessed right if he talked to them later on. Turning back to the guy in front of him, Hal smiled and gave him a once over. Scholar likely enough, but something else too. He looked 'ready, like the cat back home. Always ready to pounce if the opportunity for a mouse or a bird presented itself. Still in a place like the Hollow, that was to be expected he supposed.

The young elven druid was actually expecting this. In the forest, if strangers came close to their camp, there would be two archers aiming arrows at the trespasser's heads as that same question was being asked. But there would also be at least three others hidden, ready to fill the strangers with arrows at the slightest provocation. She wondered if it was the same here. These town protectors were actually nicer in comparison.

Larannia gave a slight bow and showed the palm of her hands as her arms stayed at her side. The only thing that could have been considered a weapon was a sickle tucked into her belt. The blade was made of stone and the handle wood. It was widely known to be a simple herbalist tool.

The druid kept her voice calm and steady. At times like this, it was best to be respectful, calm and show no fear. "My name is Larannia Stormtree of the Starleaf tribe. I am also a Messager of Gozreh. I have left my tribe to learn of different lands. I also wish to speak to the leaders of those lands about the message I bare. Does your leader have the wisdom to at least hear it?" She finished softly.

She half expected the answer to be no. Not many leaders would have that wisdom to hear the message of a deity. Only the wise leaders would be saved. Now, according to The Elder, the town protecters will ask for something called an 'entrance fee'. One did not survive long in the cities without coin.

Larannia glanced at the hooded figure that moved passed her and closer to the protectors. Back home, the stranger would have been pierced by multiple arrows by now. Such an action might aggravate them further. If a confrontation ensued, she was determined not to get involved.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:02, Tue 28 Feb 2023.

Gorluk raised a gloved hand to greet the guard.

“Gorluk of clan Magmace at your service fine sir. I am on an archaeological expedition for dwarven ruins local to this area.”

OOC: Should I roll for a ‘Make an Impression’ action?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:50, Tue 28 Feb 2023.

Damian taps the bedpost which immediately sets the room into bright light at that he rises from his cot and goes through a few mental exercises to make sure that he is prepared for the day.  Before leaving the room he whispers softly and the words enter Hal's mind. "Time for breakfast sleepy head."

He checks that his robe and gloves are positioned and fastened securely, so as not to slip no matter what the day brings him. He buttons his veil in place before taking a long look in the hazy mirror. With a twist and turn, he is satisfied that nobody will be exposed to his shame. He lets out a deep sigh of personal exhaustion before setting his shoulders and opening the door to take on whatever the gods have prepared for him today.

He heads down the stairs where he sees his travelling companion already in line. He projects his words to Hal using his magic casually. "What is on the docket for today, Dawn-follower?" The way he says Dawn-follower is clearly a play on dawnflower. It is said good naturedly.

OOC: I will use Dark Blue Serif with italics whenever I am using Message which can only be heard by the recipient. Otherwise I'll just use blue for my speech.

Marianna was timid with the guards and their hefty weapons. That these other strangers were being stopped meant she wasn't being stopped because of who she was....probably. She waited patiently for the others to speak up.

"J-just passing through the neighborhood. Is there something wrong I need to be afraid of?"

The guards listened to the Elf speak first, their mouths slowly going agape. Then the more talkative one said you want to what? talk with the boss? are you kidding? the other said in a jeering manner she says she got a message for him. oh yeah...a message...for Kreed... hahahaha they both laughed. The the dwarf spoke up and the one on the right turned his attention on him...

ahh now that we understand. we get lots of adventuring types through here...though not many return. go your way.

Them the other said to Larannia in a more serious tone. if ya want to see The Boss...Thuldin Kreed, youse gotta see Payden at the Curtyard first.

Then the cloaked woman who'd paused and watched what was said spoke saying she was passing through and the one speaking to the dwarf turned to her...to where? there ain't nuttin after Falcons Hollow ? we da end of day line.

_-----------------

Jak Crimmy looked at Hal over Helicans shoulder and at Damian coming down the steps and she muttered in a half whisper he's a strange one then turned her attention back to Helican ...that's no simple task but I've got two couriers in mind that'd do it. The cheaper I can't guarantee he won't read the message or share it. With anyone he thinks he can make a coin from but I can guarantee it'll get there. that'll cost you 2 Gold. The other will keep your business your business and also I can speak for his ability to get it there safely. but that'll be 4 Gold. then she looked back at Hal morning Hal. sleep well?

Hal looked up with surprise, but quickly gathered that Damian was flexing his magical prowess. "Not sure yet, Nethyrite", he replied with equal good nature, "The day has only just dawned, and is still unknown".

Looking over the shoulder of the man in front of him, Hal nodded at Jak with a smile, "Yeah, I slept like a log. Any chance of some breakfast, Jak?".
This message was last edited by the player at 15:53, Wed 01 Mar 2023.

Helican flinched at the cost. It was a long way, but his money reserves were already low. To low for even the cheapest of courier's it would seem. He listened as the presumed maker of metallic noises from the night before spoke over his shoulder, as he did though he pulled the letter back across the counter. "I could go for breakfast as well, I'll have to think on the courier for a bit, and will let you know" he stuffed the letter in the front pocket of his vest.

He turned to the man behind him, "I am new in town, I presume you are as well?"

Larannia gave an appreciative nod towards the protectors. They were more helpful than she expected them to be. Now the young druid had two names and a location. The path was set before her.

"Thank you. Where do I find this...Curtyard?" she asked.

Again, the druid found herself wondering why she had received these visions and message. She was nobody special. Why not someone of more importance? Someone who had the skill to talk to others and had the charisma to express how important the message was? All she could come up with was it was part of a test. It was all about the message and not The Messager. If a leader was wise enough to see the message for what it was, then that leader would deserve the eyes of Gozreh upon them.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:39, Wed 01 Mar 2023.

Gorluk thanked the guards as he made his way to the town’s inn. He saw no reason to hide his intentions and he felt some measure of comfort that this settlement was decent enough to not pry too deep into the affairs of visitors. The dwarf belatedly realized that he could have vouched for his fellow travelers and made easy friends if he had been more mindful. He had a long way to go in overcoming his discomfort in dealing  with the surface races.

Hal followed the exchange between Jak and the stranger with mild interest, until the man spoke to him directly. "Oh. Yeah, sorry about the noise, that was probably me getting out of my armor", he smiled, "Chainmail isn't the quietest thing in the world, but I am sorry if I woke you or anything.".

He looked about to say, more but stopped suddenly, and held out a calloused hand, "My manners... I'm Hal".

Helican held his hand out and shook the mans as firmly as was comfortable, though it was evident he was a scholar not a warrior.

"No hard feelings Hal, I am Helican, I'm an academic from Almas, and a writer. How about yourself? All that armor must be protecting a good story or two, maybe over breakfast?"

The innkeeper Jak grinned at Hal and Helican and said how about some warm berry tarts with spiced apple cider and some hot tea ? Go grab a table and I'll one of the girls bring it to you.

Just then the door opened and a dwarf walked in, well armored and well armed and looked over the place. It was warm and welcoming. The furnishings worn and mismatched but everything looked well maintained and clean. Jak Crimmy waved at him and said loudly welcome to Jak-A-Napes. home for those at the end of the road. grab a table and I'll send a girl over to see to your needs. ----------_----------------

The two guards waited for Marianna's response but one of them said off hand to Larianna you mightn't wanta wait til the mornings over. the Cutyard is busy this time a day, the sawdust fills the air, making it hard to breath miss. Payday always goes to check with the Boss about the noon hour. that'd be best time to see him. go secure yourself some lodging first.

ooc-thats Cutyard autocorrect doesn't like the word. lol

Hal nodded to Helican, "Sure, I'd be glad of the company", and then looked over at Jak with a smile, "Sounds great, and some bread please. Oh and a plate for Damian", he gestured over his shoulder at his cloaked companion, "Even magicians need to eat". Looking around for a table, Hal pointed to one big enough for three, "We'll take that one".
This message was last edited by the player at 22:05, Fri 03 Mar 2023.

In reply to GM Dread (msg # 22):

The extra scrutiny only amplified her anxiety "Look, I'm here just exploring, okay? I heard something about this place from some rugged mercenary types, and it sounded interesting. I'm not here looking to cause trouble. Can I at least get some food?"

Helican nodded along with Hal's response to Jak and then smiled. "Shaping up to be an interesting morning then." he then turned on his heels and made his way to the table Hal had pointed at and lowered himself into one of the chairs, after flipping it around so that the back of the chair was in front of him.

Overhearing the conversation between the guests and innkeeper, Gorluk surmised that the former were also newcomers and perhaps adventurers as well. He watched as they began to gather at a table and waited for an appropriate moment to introduce himself.

The wood elf was starting to feel a little sorry for the stranger. But with the attitude she was giving, it was only going to make things worse. The young druid was about to give a thankful nod and be on her way, but her feet would not move. That was always how it started. Larannia's vision started to blur until only a swirl of green and blue's were visible.

A vision began.

The stranger was running down a narrow alleyway. Her breathing was labored and came in gasps. It would have been dark if not for the sky burning red. There was a deafening sound of a thundering crash as a building she was running past exploded outward in a hail of wood and masonry. The stranger was hit by flying debris that made her stumble and fall. A very large and sharp reptilian claw momentarily appeared before withdrawing back into the ruined building.

As the stranger fell, a silver sphere she was carrying fell from her grasp and bounced twice on the ground. It made a small metallic sound each time it did so. On the sphere were three crystals that had been glowing green. Now they were glowing red and one of them was blinking slowly.

The stranger said something in a foul language before hurrying back up, snatching the sphere off the ground and continuing her sprint into the darkness. A loud roar of a monstruous beast echoed after her.

Larannia took a deep breath and blinked away the vision. She then bowed deeply at the waist towards the protectors and stayed in that position. "My apologies dutiful protecters. I met this one on the ferry and was about to hire them to escort me around this town since I have no experience with the civilization of man. I will take responsibility of her actions while we are here."

The young druid did not move as she waited for the reply of the protectors.

the guard opened his mouth to speak intending to let her enter, when the Elf stopped dead in her tracks and turned saying she'd take responsibility for her...the guard shrugged and said ok. be on your way then.

Larannia straightened and gave a nod of thanks to the protectors. She then turned and started walking in search of lodging. The thought of sleeping indoors and confined by four walls disturbed her. She had grown up in the openness of the forest, the tribe sleeping in trees and using the leaves as cover. But the young druid new this was part of the experience of learning about new lands. One had to adapt to new situations in order to learn.

As the druid walked, Larannia thought about the vision. She had started receiving them as long as she could remember. At first, they were disjointed, chaotic and blurry. Most of the time, they involved fire, dark smoke and destruction. It was only recently that they have become crystal clear. It was that fact that made The Elder take her visions seriously and sent her out into the world. The burden was set on her shoulders to give the message of warning to leaders to help them prepare for what was to come. But would they even bother to listen?

The recent vision was different. It actually clearly showed someone she did not know. Would the stranger be involved somehow? Was it a warning of a possible future that could be changed? Larannia shook her head slightly at the thought. It was best not to think about it too much or one would go insane.

Now the goal was to find a place to stay, take a bath, get some food and then search for this Payday person at the Cutyard who would hopefully let her have an audience with the leader Thuldin Kreed.

Marianna's eyes went wide when she heard the elf's idea. She was even more surprised that the lie worked. She gave a simple nod to the guards as she walked past.

She looked behind her to make sure they were far enough away to be out of earshot before she spoke. "thanks for helping me out there miss. I, I don't do well when I get frazzled. I'm not sure that I can be much help to you here though. The locals are more likely to talk to you than me."

Larannia gave a slight nod to herself as the stranger started to walk beside the young druid. The stranger had passed the first trial. She then gave a ghost of a smile after the stranger spoke. "I do not need anyone to speak for me. I want someone who can teach me about the customs and culture of the realm of man."

He waves the idea of a morning meal aside. "Do I look like a halfling? My magic will sustain me. I need to watch my figure, don't chu know? He says with an exaggerated run of his gloved hands down the front of his cloak. Then to the proprietor he adds, "Though if you have some spare bones from the meals, I could use those for some of my research. If it's not too much trouble of course?"

Once he is seated at the table he chuckles to himself as he casts he hooded gaze on Hal. "You once asked me why the dogs liked me so much? This is why." He pulls a short, rib bone out of a bag hanging from his belt and knocks it against the table before putting it back in the bag along with any that were provided for him. "I keep the treats!"

A nervous laugh escaped her mouth as she pulled her hood down. "I mean, I'll try. I'm no expert. Not exactly invited to all the hoiti toiti functions. Seen a few of them through the cracks of a kitchen door though."

Once the three strangers were seated, Gorluk approached their table.

“Pardon me, gentlemen. Are you all professional adventurers by any chance?”

As the Elf and the Tiefling cross the square, they can see Jak-A-Napes straight ahead. To the right, the Town Magistrate, to the left the General Store and off to the north down towards the road going upslope and the north gate out of town, a building to the right has a line of townsfolk lining up outside. Someone comes out and heads out the main gate coughing a few times.

Inside Gorluk wanders over to the table the man in armor, the hooded man and the scholar in leathers sat at. A waitress setting a tray with 10 sweet tarts on it. In the center of the table. Then three spiced apple cider mugs with steam coming off them in front of each of them

ooc: no need to make an impression on PCs they can choose their reactions. you can describe your character if you wish.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:36, Thu 09 Mar 2023.

Helican perked up when Damian said magic, and was going to inquire about it, but then the dwarf approached and asked an interesting question.

"Well I can't speak for the others here at the table, but I certainly am. An adventurer of scholarly gains. You can call me Helican. Are you hiring for a job?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:22, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Larannia noticed the sign of Jak-A-Napes and wondered what that meant. The protector had told her she would be able to get a room there and wait till noon. It also might be a good place to get information. As the young wood elf walked, she remembered the fantastic stories The Elder told. Of great heroes meeting in taverns and going on grand adventures. Her favorite was the stories about large ships flying on the clouds like it was the sea and going on exciting adventures in other worlds! The Elder had a great imagination. She tried very hard not to think about missing home already.

The young druid stopped at the door and tried to gather her courage. Larannia felt like she was about to walk into a wolf den. Just like in the wild, you could not show fear. The animals could smell it. Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, the wood elf opened the door and walked in.

The stench of many bodies and metal assaulted her nose. The wood elf tried her best not to wrinkle her nose at the smell but only partially succeeded with a slight twitch. In the doorway stood a female elf standing at 5'5". She had tan skin and shoulder length auburn hair. Her body was slender but toned. Her eyes a beautiful sky blue. The young-looking elf wore a green and brown hide armor. A sickle, made of stone, tucked into a belt. Strapped to a backpack was a simple wooden shield made of oak.

Larannia's eyes scanned the surroundings. She would lock eyes with anyone looking at her just long enough to let them know the druid noticed their gaze before continuing on. Show no fear but do not antagonize the wolves by getting into a staring contest. The elf noticed the dwarf that came along the same ferry. He was already talking to some people at a table. Giving a slight nod, the wood elf proceeded to the bar where a stout woman stood.

The young druid gave a warm smile.

"Greetings. Do you have a..." Larannia paused a moment to think of the right word in common. "...room I can pay for?" she managed to finish asking.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:38, Thu 09 Mar 2023.

Gorluk appeared to be a typical representative of his ancestry. His wide torso was encased in a metal breastplate that was battle-scarred but still of high quality. His stubby arms comprised of pure knotted muscle. On his back was slung a two-handed war flail; its steel head was sculpted into the visage of a glaring dwarf warrior with a spiked crown.

"Gorluk of clan Magamace at your service. Warrior by occupation. Not exactly hiring but looking for a group to join. I am seeking the remains of Jernashall and would benefit from allies and coin. If you are already on a mission yourselves, I can contribute my skills for a share of the treasure."

The older woman looked at Larianna with a smile that lit up the place. She ran a hand with thick fingers through her thick shoulder length gray hair. my oh my. a wood elf in Jak-A-Napes. . I haven't seen one of your kind since we...ahh but that's a tale for another time. names Jak Crimmy. you are quite welcome in my establishment. you can rest easy here. nothing dangerous comes through those doors...including those goons from the Lumber Consortium.  of course I have a room for you...and your friend if you're inclined to share.

Larannia gave a slight bow to Jak. "Yes please, and thank you." She then gave a quick glance to the stranger who had not even given a name yet. It would be easier for the stranger to teach the young druid about the outside world if they were staying in the same room. Her mind then thought about what the woman said. Another wood elf had been here a long time ago? What tribe did the elf belong to? Such questions ran through her mind until she caught the warning tone from the woman. Was the Lumber Consortium a group to watch out for?

The young druid chided herself for losing focus. She had her own path to travel.

She then reached into her belt pouch and pulled out a gold metal coin and placed it on the bar in front of the woman. After doing so, she quickly rubbed her hand on the right thigh of the hide armor. Just touching the metal coin felt wrong.

"I also need some information, please. The protectors here said I needed to talk to someone called...Payden... in the Cutyard, so I can seek an audience with the leader Thuldin Kreed. Where is this Cutyard and what can you tell me about Payden and Thuldin Kreed?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:11, Fri 10 Mar 2023.

child that Gold is enough for 5 nights for both of you. careful you show money before you ask how much...there are those in civilization who would have just picked it off the counter and said that's enough for 1 night without you knowing. the woman said with a half smile and caring look in her eyes. Then a slight flash of wariness and a bit of anger when the names were mentioned.

She looked the elf in the eyes and said lass becareful about getting involved with the Lumber Consortium. Kreed is the Consortiums Gavel here in Falcons Hollow. that term isn't just because he's judge jury and executioner hereabouts...it's also because he can and will bring the hammer down on anyone who gets in his way. all the guards are his. the only one who isn't is the Sheriff, who truly doesn't have the power to stand against him...though try as he may for being a good man, Daleson can't really do anything to the Consortium. Payden or...Payday as the locals call him, for his way of doing out the punishment...or if you will, what's coming to them, for Kreed...he's his enforcer and second in command. what business do you have with them?

Marianna put her hand on the elf's, securing that coin on the table for now.

"Hold on a moment. Five gold, for one room? That's pretty extreme don't you think? The one gold she was offering you would have been plenty generous. Can we come to a more reasonable arrangement?"

OOC: under Services in the Core Book, a bed for one is one Silver, and a private room for two is 8 silver. I can understand the remoteness increasing the price, but I think this is nuts
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Fri 10 Mar 2023.

I think you misread the post. Jak was advising her that she didn't need that much she said that was enough for 5 nights for both of you...thus 1 silver a nigh for each

OOC: Yep, you're right. That's embarrassing, given I read that more than once and still got it messed up.

In reply to Marianna Cross (msg # 44):

Marriana put her hand on the elf's, keeping the coin in place "I'll cover this one" She said. The generosity was unusual, and there was never a promise of another stay or even another night, but Marianna figured it was the right choice still. She knew she could make the money back one way or the other. This elf on the other hand, not so much.

"How'd this Kreed person get to have so much power around here?"

"Well met Gorluck of clan Magamace, we are all just met as well, having shared adjacent rooms here last night. I see no reason for you to not join us to break fast this morning" Helican waved to a free chair and offered one of the tarts that had been brought to the table.

"I am uncertain of the tone I should address your quest with, was Jernashall family, or a friend, member of a guild perhaps?"

Larannia gave a slight frown as she hurriedly put the gold metal coin back into the money pouch and again wiped the hand on her thigh. The elf's cheeks turned slightly red in embarrassment. The young druid had no experience dealing with the currency of man. At least she now learned to ask the price before coins were exchanged. Larannia gave a quick nod of thanks to the stranger before looking back at Jak.

"I am a messenger of Gozreh. I was tasked to deliver a message to the leaders of places I travel to."

The wood elf thought about the path she was on. It sounded like it was going to be harder than she thought. Why give a warning when it was most likely not going to be heard? Why to people who did not deserve the deity's grace? Maybe it was just an opportunity for all to find wisdom in the message and prepare for the destruction that was to come. The woman then said something about a Sheriff. Was that another path?

"Sheriff?" Larannia asked quizzically. "Would that be a Grand Protector? If so, I will need to talk to this...Daleson. Where can I find this Grand Protector?
This message was last edited by the player at 14:09, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Jak first looked at the young lady paying for the room for 5 days for the two of them. She pulled out a key off of a peg rack behind her with a tag labeled 6. And said thank you...who should I put in my log is on this room, Larianna and? then she paused as the newcomer asked about Kreed. She sighed and said that's a question that could take all afternoon to discuss. let's just say The Lumber Consortium has a monopoly on wood in all Andoran. and Darkmoon Vale is the only place Darkwood can be found. Thuldin Kreed is the son of one of the families the Consortium put in charge...and everyone else has died who might pose a threat to who runs The Hollow. but don't you worry none. Even Kreed cannot extend his grasp into Jak-A-Napes. I knew him when he was wet behind the ears and he hasn't forgotten who I was before being an Innkeeper.

Then he looked at Larianna and said. Daleson is normally in the Sheriff's office unless he's handling something then his deputy is there. You cand find the office down across And diagonal from The Cutyard. Just go across the street to. The General Store and down the lane mext to the river. It's easy to find.

"Thank you for the information. Put us down as Larannia and Marianna" She smiled hearing how similar the two names were. Grabbing the key, she made a sheepish joke "No relation"

Gorluk sat down and claimed a tart without hesitation. He had been so preoccupied with his quest that he did not notice he was hungry.

“Jernashall isn’t a person. It’s a place. Or rather was a place. A dwarven city that was destroyed when the volcano erupted ages ago.  Supposedly its ruins remain.” 
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

The young druid gave Marianna an odd look with a raised eyebrow for a moment. Larannia then returned her attention back to the woman behind the bar. "Before we turn in for a few hours, what food do you serve and...how many coins will it be?" The wood elf gave a broad smile as she felt proud of herself for using what she had just learned.

now youre learning. Jak replied with a chuckle. Youre looking at probably the best cook within a hundred miles. Today we have sweet tarts made with loganberries and strawberries. We also have fresh hot apple cider to take the cold out. I can also make you some Hot tea if you need  a little pick me up....we are still serving breakfast for a bit, and breakfast is free when you have a room. the other meals are are between 1 copper and 3 copper depending on what we are serving. each meal comes with a free drink of the non alcoholic persuasion. wine, is 3 silver a glass, ale 1 copper. whiskey 5 silver a glass.

Larannia nodded to herself as she tried to remember all the information given. Her eyes grew wide with surprise from the description of a sweet tart filled with berries. The elf's body bobbed up and down in excitement. This would be her first meal in the lands of man.

"I would like to try this...sweet tart please. The young druid never heard of an apple cider as something one would drink. She had eaten apples before so, it might not be much different. "And an apple... cider."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:22, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

A place, that was good to know, Helican removed his notebook from his side and took out his pen and ink. "I did presume when you said remains you meant a person. So it's a city, interesting..." he continued to write things on the page. "Is this ruined city near here?"

"Jernashall was the first thing destroyed by the Rending so it should be close to Droskar's Crag. The locals would surely know more."

Helican wrote down Droskar's Crag as well, he'd heard of it but he wanted to make sure the connection was noted in his journal as well. "So, how do you intend to fund this quest to find the ruins of Jernashall?"

"I only have 5 coins to my name but I doubt whatever vermin prowling the place would ask for any toll other than a boot to the arse."

"Being from a larger city I can say with certainty some vermin exact a larger toll than coin. That being said, I was mainly speaking of provisions, pay for warriors or academics to join you, wagons and beasts of burden for any relics you wish to return with. At least, those are the things I think of when I think of an expedition to ruins, but my background is purely..." Helican stopped for a moment to adjust his jacket, "...academic"

"Aye, I was never expecting an easy errand. If coin is an issue I'm sure there's are ways for men of action to subsidize themselves in these parts. Do you have any prospects yourself? Perhaps we can help each other."

"Prospects, none yet, mostly I have been collecting stories from the people of this town for my book. But a spot of adventure suits me to add some actions to it's pages." Helican turned his attention back to Hal and Damian "How about either of you? Some work to get to that might need an academic and a dwarf with a big weapon?"

Just then the door to the Inn opened and a lean man wearing a chain shirt and slightly worn wool pants entered bearing a long sword on his belt with a shirt sword on the other side.

Jak broke into a big Grin. Deldrin what a pleasant surprise. what brings The Daleson to my pleasant establishment she said that with a glance at Larianna standing a few feet away.

The Sherrif of Falcons Hollow moved closer and spoke with a deep baritone, though his elven features would make you think he would have a more lilting voice.

Hello Jak. I was going through records from before Thuldrin took control and ran across something interesting. I know back then you were adventuring based out of the Hollow. so you might have some information about this. Do you recall Druingar Gravendak...called The Glintaxe? The dwarven adventurer that was in town several years back? did you know he grew up here in the Hollow? I thought of I could find out what happened to him...his story so to speak. I could move the magistrate to pay for a statue in his honor...sort of a local heroic legend ...and help inspire the townsfolk to greater things.


Jak nodded. absolutely I do Deldrin. absolutely. he stayed here of course. I believe he was going to go to the ruins Droskars Crucible...you know that dwarven monestary in the hills beneath Droskars Crag, on the far edge of the vale to search for some clue regarding the lost seal of Kragoddin. 

At the mention of Droskars Crucible and Kraggodins Seal, Larianna felt a vision coming on and she saw a dark cave sealed off from the outside world and the Dragon she always had in her visions trapped with in it while a dark shadowy energy came through the rocks sealing him within. The energy was enveloping him and slowly sucking the life from his draconic frame. He raised his head and roared in agony and frustration as he didn't have the life energy to claw out of his lair. ...then the vision was gone.

Helican's attention was immediately drawn, "Well, do you hear that, opportunity knocking. I love it when a plan comes together. We should volunteer to follow in the footsteps of this Druingar Gravendak, find out what happened to him" Helican's pen and journal were in hand once more, this time he wrote something, then thumbed through some pages to see if he could find anything he'd jotted down about this Druingar.

---

OOC: I rolled Darkmoon Vale Lore to see if I had any notes on this Druingar Gravendak, or Droskar's Crucible?

14:50, Today: Helican rolled 19 using 1d20+7.  Darkmoon Vale Lore.

This one hurt.

After the vision, Larannia put one hand on the bar to keep from falling and the other on the side of her head. For some reason this vision hurt her head. Maybe it was too many visions in one day? The young druid hoped there would be no more for the rest of the day. Larannia then looked at the elf who just came in and then glanced at the humans and dwarf sitting at the table. It was a lot of information to take in all at once, but the road shown was very clear.

The wood elf grabbed Marianna suddenly and pulled her in close to whisper in her ear. At Larannia's touch, Marianna could feel a slight tingling sensation. The young druid's tone was deadly serious. "We need to join that group of humans and dwarf at the table. Many lives are at stake. Tell them I can heal with and without magic and create water when none are found. I will tell them more later. But right now, I have to see an elf about a dragon." With that said, Larannia strongly nudged Marianna to the other's table.

With that done, the young druid tried to put on her most compelling smile, walked up to the Sheriff and bowed deeply at the waist.

"Excuse me Grand protec....Sheriff." Larannia struggled with the odd new word. "I am Larannia Stormtree of the Starleaf tribe. May I speak with you privately? I have a message from the deity Gozreh for you. Do you have the wisdom to only listen?

Larannia waited patiently for his answer. Would he even be worthy to listen to the warning?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:53, Tue 14 Mar 2023.

Helican started writing in his journal pausing to think occasionally then his eyes got that look of recalling something

Duldrin looked at the Druidess and with a nod to Jak he said please excuse me Jak. it appears this young lady has something of import to share if you'd be so kind as to put some thought into anything else you might know about this subject, I'd appreciate it
. He then motioned for Larannia to follow him to a nearby booth. He sat down and looked at her with a serious expression. what message does Gozreh have for this humble servant of Falcons Hollow

ooc: you must make a 'make an impression' roll. His starting attitude is friendly success will take him to helpful. Critical success will move him to helpful and he will grant you a boon. Failure he doesn't believe you but he's still friendly. Critical failure he doesn't believe you and he will move to indifferent. The DC is 16

Larannia felt nervous and most likely looked it too. She was not a public speaker. This was the first time speaking to someone with authority. What was Gozreh thinking when the deity gave her this task? The young druid was way out of her depth and at this moment, she understood it.

Thank...thank you for your time. I will make this quick. The wood elf took a breath to try to calm her nerves. "The Dragon Dethorgon will return when day turns to night and the sky is the color of blood."

It was done.

She was finally able to relay the message that had been given to her. For a brief moment, it felt like a great weight had been lifted off her shoulders. It did not last. Larannia saw the glazed look in the Sheriff's eyes, the fixed, fake smile and the mind-numbing nod of his head like he had much practice talking to fools.

She had failed.

The young druid had failed the deity and herself. But like a gathering storm, the sadness turned to anger quickly. Larannia gnashed her teeth and the elf's right hand turned to a fist. At that moment, a small arc of lightning moved between her thumb and pinky finger. The wood elf's eyes grew wide in shock and quickly relaxed the balled fist and took a calming breath.

Concentration and control.

Then an odd thought entered her mind. What if the message was a steppingstone? Maybe the warning did not matter. What if the fact she was talking privately to the Sheriff in his time of need was the goal all along? Was this a hidden path? Larannia held tight to this idea and decided to use it. She forgot how important this man was and gave him a serious look.

"But most importantly, I think my path has lead me to this moment. You were talking about sending a group to search of a famous dwarf." Larannia tilted her head towards the humans and dwarf sitting at the far table. "I heard them grumbling about looking for a job for some coin. They seem so desperate; you might be able to hire them for cheap. The druid nodded to herself as a plan started to form. This is the path that has been sent before me by Gozreh. I need to join them. Could you go over there and offer them a job and introduce me? I am new to these lands and find it difficult to talk to others. I can heal with or without magic and can create water where none can be found. With me joining them, I will increase their chances of finding this dwarf."

Larannia found herself holding a breath for the Sheriff's answer.

OOC:

19:25, Yesterday: Larannia Stormtree rolled 7 using 1d20.  Impression roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:30, Wed 15 Mar 2023.

Marianna was stunned by what she was hearing from her elf associate. What was she getting roped into? Still, she was something of a conformist, so went to the men that Larannia pointed to.

"Uhhh, hi" she waved meakly "I'm Marianna, and that elf over there is Larannia. She told me to come over and talk to you. We're here to help with....something? She and I can both cast magic. I uh, I know my way around medical tools, and a stewe pot"

Helican eyed the seemingly shy elf up and down before smiling, "Well nice to meet you Marianna, and I am sure equally nice to meet Larannia. I am Helican, this here is Gorluck, Damian, and Hal. Don't mind Hal he's the quiet stoic type, unless he's putting on or taking off his armor it seems" Helican pointed to each of the gathered members as he gave his overly acquainted introduction to each. "I presume you intend to help that man with finding the famous dwarf? Well we are in search of coin and adventure, so consider us onboard" though he talked as though he led the group, Helican had just met these people and had zero actual influence over their actions. It was just his way though.

"Well that sounds intriguing." He comments with regards to the Sheriff's conversation with the proprietor. When Marianna approaches he pushes himself to his feet and bows slightly as he offers his hand. "I also am a student of the Arcane. If you are looking to form an Adventuring Party my companions and I would be interested. Friendly terms of course, and assuming that ladies of your pedigree can abide by our boorish behavior."

Marianna gave a quick shake before sitting "Not sure what pedigree you're talking about, but anyway" Marianna brushed her hand through her jet hair, right past her demonic horns " I'm also not a student of any sort. I didn't learn to cast spells, I just....do. Either way, I didn't want my entire future to be defined by the small walls of a kitchen, so I here I am. I already feel like I'm in over my head, and I just got started."

While Gorluk did not consider himself religious, he would not deny that the gods had delivered a boon in his time of need. Not bad only was he provided a solid lead on his quest, two extra adventurers had volunteered their skills.

”Well met Miss Marianna. Although I offered my services to this party only minutes ago I welcome you and your friend nonetheless. By coincidence, I am also here to explore dwarven ruins. When the sheriff is done with his conversation, we should negotiate a reward for finding the whereabouts of my kinsman.”

Deldrin Baleson called The Daleson by those that knew he had adopted Falcons Hollow as his home and worked tirelessly to attempt and balance the scales tipped heavily in favor of the Lumber Consortiums Gavel...Thuldrin Kreed . He loved the Town, and it's citizens. He listened carefully as she started, her voice cracking with nerves. He smiled at her to calm her down. Her message came out flat and as a riddle.

His eyes went flat. And he sighed deeply.

miss Larianna...I appreciate the warning. however if I may say so without causing you much grief. I've lived here nigh on 30 years now and been the Sheriff for most of it. that means I get around to all the outlying farms and the lumber camps. I've talked to every adventuring company that's come through here in 30 years.if there was a Dragon hereabouts...I'd have heard of it. I'm sorry. I don't think your message will get much traction with the locals here.

He shook his head unsmiling but then he saw the elf's friend talking to the 4 sitting at the table and looking his way...and he looked puzzled. He heard Larianna offering to go look for The Glint Axe. And he nodded and forced a smile...wondering.

ok miss let's go meet your allies.

He got up from the booth and moved towards the table scooping up two chairs with his hands and a waitress scuttled to grab a third as he moved with agility to the new meeting place.

He set the chairs down, looking around the table. And looked at Larannia and looked at one of the chairs he brought over.

He motioned for Marianna to sit in the chair the waitress brought.

He sat. And said Miss Larianna here said you might be interested in looking for information about what happened to the dwarven Hero Druingar Gravendak...called The Glintaxe by those in the know.?

"Good to meet you Sheriff, I am Helican and this is..." Helican repeated nearly word for word the greeting he'd given moments before. "...we are interested in pursuing your task, some for coin, others for their own purposes, personally...it'll make a great story for my book."

Larannia followed the Sheriff, gave a modest bow to the others sitting at the table, and then sat in the chair that was purposely brought for the meeting. The smell of metal was stronger here. One of the human's had been around a lot of metal recently and of course, the dwarf reeked of it also. The wood elf was told dwarves lived among metal all their lives. Larannia  was just happy she kept from wrinkling her nose at the smell. That might have been taken the wrong way. As the Sheriff talked, the young druid used her sharp, sky-blue eyes to gleam some information from the others.

First was Marianna. She had pulled down the hood of her cloak to show the devil horns. The wood elf had heard many stories about tieflings. None of them flattering. But from talking to her briefly, Larannia did not believe most of them were true. The half devil was just a young woman trying to find something bigger than herself. But Marianna did confess of getting flustered when things got tough. Someone not to count on too much, at least until the tiefling gains some more confidence. It was also shown to her that the tiefling will be very important later in the future.

Then came the dwarf. Smelling strongly of metal, he fit every detail she had heard or read about in books. Short, stocky and with strong looking arms. The dwarf defiantly looked like some type of fighter. The deadly looking warflail attached to his belt could bring down many a foe. But he was soft spoken whenever he did decide to speak. The dwarf tended to mind his words carefully. She would have to wait and see on that one.

Next was a human. The stench of metal was also strong with this one also. He also had the strong body of some type of fighter. This one had a calm, contemplative demeaner and had not spoken yet. She hoped to learn more later.

The other one was completely covered. He wore a robe, gloves, and a vail. The good thing about him was that he did not stink of metal. Larannia expected the robed one had some kind of physical deformity. But the way he spoke and moved, as he greeted Marianna, showed he was a charmer. Even when not showing his face, the man's charisma was undeniable. She would have to keep an eye on that one to see if it was a charm of a snake.

This one was another human wearing a fancy coat and a vest. He smelled mostly of old scrolls and ink. His body was thin but lean. Someone who could step away quickly if needed to. In front of the human was a book that she had seen him write in. Larannia figured he would stand back and let other do the dirty work as he wrote all about it. Someone not to count on in a fight.

Larannia leaned back into her chair and listened. All things considered, this was not a bad first step in defeating a dragon.

OOC:

I tried to go through all the post of characters to put in more detail but people tend to forget to write a character description under the Character Details section. :)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:30, Thu 16 Mar 2023.

He raises a hand to the edge of his hood and taps it with the side of a gloved finger before bringing it away sharply in a form of salute to the Sheriff. "Sheriff, I believe we had the pleasure of meeting you a couple days ago on the street. Please grace us further with your company, have a tart, and let us hear more about this quest you have." If others were to say the same words it could come across as corny or sarcastic but his tone and inflection make it clear that he is speaking without irony or jest. He truly is interested in what everyone has to say.


OOC: I updated my character description Larannia. I don't know that it will help much though.

Deldrin nodded as a few of them spoke up, though the dwarf and the knight remained silent. He looked at them as if he had mental scales out taking their measure. After a long moment he said. ok then. Druingar Gravendak called The Glintaxe from his carrying a magical axe that always seemed to glint in the light when he swung it, lived here a good portion of his life. His father moved on when he was a relatively young Dwarf but not before sharing something with his son that changed him. He started asking everyone who came by about  great seal
of Kraggodan and where it could be found. After a few years he left...NOONE knows where went to, though some say adventuring, others to seek out the more learned establishments for information. All I know is he returned after several years far more driven. Took a few excursions into the Vale before finally leaving supposedly to that old dwarven monestary that lies in ruins on the foothills below Droskars Crag. I am working towards having a statue erected in his honor...to inspire folks here to strive to excel and not just 'exist'. It would help if I knew more about what happened to him after he left. I'd be much appreciative if you could follow in his tracks and return with information. Of course I'd need some method of subst antiating the authenticity of your report. Questions?

Gorluk listened attentively to the sheriff’s story. The area where this Glintaxe fellow had vanished was in the vicinity of the lost city he was searching for.

”I have a few questions. What reward are you offering for this information? What is this seal Glintaxe was looking for? Also, what sort of dangers can we expect at Droskars Crag?”
This message was last edited by the player at 05:21, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Larannia appreciated the dwarf's directness and wondered if all dwarves were that way. The task seemed to be very simplistic. Hunt down a most likely dead dwarf and bring proof he was found. Finding information on a glittering axe would not be too hard because anyone would remember something that stood out from normal. But it would be a big stinking piece of metal. The young druid knew she was not going to carry the weapon if found.

What interested her more was this Great Seal of Kraggodan. The wood elf knew the Seal had something to do with the dragon in her vision but not how it was connected. Larannia continued watching the expressions of the others while they started the bargaining part of this venture.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:58, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Marianna rose her hand, but spoke before being recognized

"Um, is there something specific you want us to be looking for, information wise? I'm just saying, you're probably not looking for us to come back with his recipe for banana bread."

”I have a few questions. What reward are you offering for this information? What is this seal Glintaxe was looking for? Also, what sort of dangers can we expect at Droskars Crag?”

The Daleson looked at Gorluk and met his direct gaze. I don't know what the Seal is or was. Nor do I know much about Kraggodan. I'm not a learned
person. My knowledge has more to do with nature and the vale. Adventuring types seem to think most Seals keep something shut. Tombs? Portals? Entry ways?  Perhaps it's something like that. Maybe he found it and opened it and that's where he went? I don't know.

now as for payment. I'm not a wealthy man...nor are any here, except for Kreed maybe. and that skinflint cares for nothing that doesn't benefit him directly. what I have though is a figurine I ran across on one of my travels in the dales. it was on a dead body on the fringe of the forest. no next of kin. I've had the priestess of the temple; Lady Cirthana General tell me it has wonderous power if you can identify the creatures name. It's a dog of Onyx. I will give that to you if you can bring me information regarding The Glintaxe. 


He paused to see reactions before continuing as to what can be found near Droskars Crag. What I've seen in the woods wolves. fey both light and dark. a few Hobgoblin hunters coming down from the northern hills. giant lizards and snakes. kobolds...in abundance. The Truescale Clan has a lair in the foothills near Droskars Crag. I've never found out where. and...Wyverns prowl the night sky looking for their next meal. that's all I can think of at the moment. what say you?

"I didn't come to the Hollow to get rich. But risking life and limb for a shaggy dog seems like a short stick payment. Now if we are given license as adventurers to claim anything we find while on this expedition. That is a deal I could stand by. In addition to the dog, of course." He puts forth his opinion openly and in a warm manner. Not at all the kind of voice you would expect from a stereotypical cloaked figure.

"I have to agree with my new friend, this sounds exhilarating, but my coin purse is light, and I have mail to courier back to the university" Helican liked Damian, he was to the point, he wondered what sort of secrets he was hiding.

Larannia tried very hard to keep from rolling her eyes. Did the Sheriff really expect people to risk their lives for a mysterious figurine that only one person could use? They were humans and a dwarf after all. All they cared about was the foul-smelling metal coins and anything they found along the way. The young druid was going no matter the pay. The vision told her that this task was very important to undertake, but the wood elf knew she could not do it alone.

There was a difference between working cheaply and working for nothing. Gathering the supplies for an unknown length trip was already going to cost some coin. Maybe a deal could be struck. Larannia's sky blue eyes stopped looking at the others and placed them on the Sheriff.

"We do not know how long this task will take. Is there a way for you to talk to the shop owners to get a discount for supplies? If the Hunter is not prepared, the hunt will fail. How much do you love this town? What will you do to make sure this Hunt succeeds?" Larannia stated with a raised eyebrow.

ooc: just a reminder, just as starting gold shrunk from 150-450 gold for most classes so do the payouts. it's a silver based economy now, not a gold based economy. so don't expect big rewards...but that doesn't mean not to negotiate. ;

Deldrin looked at the group and sighed . ok. perhaps I could add to that these earrings made of silver and lapis lazuli . finally crafted from garundi. I'm told they are estimated at 6 gold value as an advance.  Sure Brocknurd at the General store would cash you out in them. As for speaking to the shop owners there's really only a few that might listen to me, as most are in the pockets of the Consortium.
Lady Cirthana of the Temple of Iomedae may listen but she also may have additional work for parishioners. Laurel Gebre, who runs Roots and Remedies. Our local herbalist and lay healer will assist and I know she has work. She's looking for some herbs found in the woods only. Something to help the locals falling I'll with some form of croup. Brocknurd for all his good heartedness even if he's a tad bit eccentric, runs the general store and it's a Consortium business. Both the high and low market .. vendors selling their wares...are run by the Consortium as well

"I like the sound of the earrings. They would look ever so fetching on my lobes." He brushes a hand against the side of his hood. "However, there is still the question of any items we find. I would like to hear it from the local law that we aren't going to be accused as tomb raiders on our return." He says with a laugh in his voice.

"Striking..." Helican says in response to Damian's remark on his lobes. "...and vital, in regards to not being called out as tomb raiders that is." He then looked back to the Daleson for confirmation of Damian's remark.

of course. we never have any problem allowing adventurers who take the risk, keeping what they find. and no tax on those items either.

”The earrings it is then. Glad we could come to an amicable arrangement Daleson. Now we just need good directions to this ruined monastery you mentioned. How long do you estimate the journey would take on foot?”

Deldrin nodded at Gorluk and pulled the two earrings of a pouch and set them on the table. Then answered you can get a map of the dalelands for free at the magistrates office. I'll warn you. he's thick as thieves with Kreed, so if you want things kept private don't share information...no matter how much he seems good natured.. Droskars Crucible is roughly 50 miles as the crow flies. Unfortunately much of it is through the thick Darkmoon forest. Worse The Darkmoon River bisects the woodlands with a lake in the northern area where there are more Fey near The Elder Tree. The river is deep and wide and you'd have to have a way of crossing it. You could obtain river transport and take down stream on the Foam either to the foothills or to the entry point of the Darkmoon . That's normally slower going than walking if you can cross the river.

Halloran suddenly say straight and looked at his friend Damian and at Helican then at the Sherrif. He put his hand on the table and spoke simply as a Champion of The Sword Maiden I will vouch for Damian, who has proven to be Good and loyal. I must go to the temple immediately and see the Priestess there. it's urgent. please continue.

Then looking around the room he said as he stood I feel the need to share with you that I probably won't be returning. I sense this is not my purpose...what I was called to do. I'm sorry. may your blades be keen.

He backed away from the table and headed for the door

"Stay well my friend. May Sarenrae bless your path." He says quickly to the departing knight. He turns his head back to those around the table. "Well, that was... abrupt. Though he was always firm in his convictions I must say that I'm surprised to see him go so swiftly. Odd." He gives a final shake of his head before speaking again. "Back to the matter at hand. I have been feeling drawn to the Darkmoon woods. So I am glad of the chance to explore it some. Guess our first step should be a map! Is there somewhere we can find you, Sheriff, if we have questions? Heh, you're probably the one saying that normally."

Larannia gave the leaving human a quick glance with an eyebrow raised. Maybe a seeking task was too much below him? She had not had any visions that included the knight, so his abrupt departure was of no big import. But he did make sure to vouch for the Robed One. A stranger covering for another stranger. That meant nothing to her. Trust had to be earned, not spoken for.

The wood elf gave a small nod now that the deal had been finalized. "Before we leave, I will talk to this herbalist, ask what they will need, and stock up on supplies that will help us on our travels."

"Aye, lass." agreed the dwarf. "Let's go on separately to gain some supplies.  I can go to magistrate's office - they already know I'm here looking for ruins, so if this is company town, they are likely waiting for me.  An' since none a ye'd been seen with me, I may just raise less attention than a whole passel of us'n.  I'm need nae supplies; been on the road a while now, and we can hunt, once out of prying eyes and this place."

He picks up another sweet-cake and crams it whole in his mouth.

He nods at the hungry dwarfs suggestion. "I will go visit Lady Cirthana and see if she or her parishioners have anything for us. A priestess of Iomedae should be able to tell us if there is any evil afoot and possibly give us a blessing as well.
What say we regroup here as soon as we are done?" He proposes.

It was time to prepare for The Hunt.

Larannia moved back the chair she was sitting in and stood. "Agreed" she stated. The wood elf then looked down to see the plate of sweet tarts. Hesitantly, she reached a hand out to pick up a delicious looking morsel and brought it up to her nose. It smelled good and partially covered up the stench of metal.

Still holding the tart, she then turned to Marianna. "Come with....please. Your task for today has just started." With that, the young druid gave a quick nod to the others and proceeded out the door to find this herbalist.

Not having input and being bossed around by this elvish lady she just met bothered Marianna. Without the words to stick up for herself, or a better plan, she simply followed behind, crossing her arms.

"Lead the way" she said simply. As she walked, she reminded herself that Larannia did say please.

"Before everyone departs, I'd be happy to go speak with Brocknurd, and pick up any supplies that might be needed. If you have any...?" Helican wasn't sure how he'd carry all of the supplies if a large list was given, but he also wanted to help expedite the group getting on the road, adventure awaited!

Larannia paused at the door and turned back to the others at the table. She shook her head at the human that smelled like old scrolls. "You look intelligent enough to understand what a group would need for a long hunt. You are more than capable. If not, we will all parish." With that said, both the young druid and Marianna left the Jak'a'napes.

As the two walked, Larannia could almost feel the anger flowing from Marianna. Marianna's arms were folded in front of her chest as a Wildcat's ears would be pressed down in agitation. That was good. The half-devil was not as meek as she pretended to be. But it would take time to build up her confidence. It was going to be a slow process to get right but it had to be done. Many lives would depend on it.

The wood elf stopped and waited for Marianna to catch up beside her before continuing walking side by side. "I apologize for being so forceful and bullying you to join the group. I am not good with people. I do not think about the feelings of others before I act. That is why I need you to help me learn." Larannia took this embarrassing moment to nibble on the sweet tart. The taste and texture were pleasant on the tongue. Deciding that it tasted good, she finished it off.

"If I do something wrong or if I upset you, please do not be afraid to tell me. After today and during our travels, you are beholden to nobody." Larannia gave a firm nod. That was the first lesson. Having the knowledge that you can stand up for yourself. The young druid was going to make a wildcat out of the half-devil yet.

"Makes sense, Damian, aye.  I'll hie onna map after a nip.  We all scarper like some team, and toungues will wag."

Zurik moves his pack to the bar for another cider (but not before taking yet one more tart) and waits for the others to leave before finishing, paying, and heading off to the Magistrates office.

Marianna gently shook her head, a faint grin appearing after "Don't worry about it, it's just me being me. I get defensive sometimes. I'm sure you were a moody teenager once."

Larianna and Marianna were the first two out the door and turned up the northern street walking on the corded wood to stay out of the mud. They headed towards the two story building from which a line of 10 or so burly men who they now knew were loggers waiting to go inside to see the herbalists. Occasional coughs burst from the mouths of those in line, with one exception. A tower of a man, a half-orc holding one of those hafted axe like weapons. He looked around with a mirthful look on his face.

that's Imbur if you hadn't figured it out.

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

Damian was next, turning to the west he walked toward the only temple looking building he could see. A few of the citizenry nodded at the gaunt robed man
----------------------------

Helican followed him closely out the door and south directly across the street he came to the General Store after only a few steps crossing the threshold into a building that for all it's claims to be a General Store looked as if it was one giant closet with everything acutely and dangersly balanced with haphazard deliberation. Narrow walkways passec between piles of gear and stuff. A spindly gnome with purple spiked hair say on a counter smoking a long silvery pipe blowing shapes of animals out of his mouth into the air as the Academian walked in.
----------------------------

Finally the dwarf excited last and headed across the empty low market heading for The magistrates building. It was well kept and there was an empty counter right inside and two hallways went off to either side. Hushed voices talked amiably down the hall to the left while nothing could be heard to the right.nn

Zurik scowled.  He considered waiting patiently, and did so, for at least a count of ten plus one.  The he harrumphed once before letting his pack down to the floor, where it promptly tipped over with a clatter.  He swore amicably.  "Oh Aye! Hallo!" He called out, stepping back so that he could see and be seen though the counter height was higher than he was.  If he continues to wait, he'll call out again, but louder.

Larannia kept quiet when Marianna mentioned being a teen. The Elder had told her that elves and humans aged differently. Humans tended to live fast but shot lives, while elves lived for hundreds of years. At one hundred and twenty-three years of age, the young druid would be considered barely out of her teens by elven standards.

As the pair walked closer, she could hear the deep throated coughs of the workers. Larannia was not surprised. The elf noticed it as soon as she entered the town. Wood dust. Continued exposure of wood dust would agitate the throat and lungs. Prolonged exposure would only make things worse. It was nature's way of getting its revenge on the people who pillaged the resources of the forest for stinking coins.

Then the long line was seen. The young druid shook her head and gave a heavy sigh. It was going to be a long wait. In that line, was a very tall and strong looking half-orc wielding a axe that was almost as tall as he was. Most likely the half-orc had been working chopping down trees for easy coin. It would take longer, but the wood dust would get him too. But there was something odd about the half-orc, he was smart enough to see an herbalist before the effects of the wood dust would start. He had to be newly arrived at the town by a few days.

As the pair got in line, she glanced at Marianna. "After this, do you need to go anywhere in town to help prepare for The Hunt?" Larannia then started to make some mental notes of what she would be looking for. One thing that she had to get was a small pouch that had something in it to cover up the nasty smell of metal and wear it around her neck.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:44, Sun 26 Mar 2023.

The tiefling did a quick bodily check of what she had on her "uhhhhmm, I don't think so. I mean, if we need to get outfitted to be on the trail for a few weeks, than I'd say I'm packing light. Doesn't sound like that's the case though. I'm not worried about missing anything. We'll burn that bridge when we get to it..."

The half orc seemed more boisterous than the other men in line, merely there to make sure they made it safely and not actually sick.
Prominent on the opening of the tunic covering his barrel-chest was a medallion with a broken chain link, a symbol of Kurgess.
While he jokes with his friends, he does seem truly concerned about some of their coughs.

Damian enters the church and drops a coin into the donation box before looking around for someone who might know the good lady he is looking for.

As Damien approaches the Temple to Iomedae. The singular sword surrounded by a circle of light is on the temple door. He notes it's one of only two buildings that are made from masonry. All the others are made of various quality and craftsmanship of wood. The other being Kreeds formidable fortress of a manor actually outside the towns 12 foot hight palisade complete with guard towers; each manned with 2 crossbowmen.

The interior of the temple is fairly austere. The foyer with nice oak benches and an ornate offering bowl . The single coin that clatters into the bowl echos in the temple.

The temple is actually larger than he imagined though as he looks around he notes most every room is empty , even if kept clean. There's the normal rooms one would associate with a temple: a cloakroom, a guards chamber, a library, a study, priests chambers, only one of which looks lived in.

He then crossed over into the temple proper and saw the tapestries lining the walls showing The Sword Maidens support of Aroden. His Herald's Arazni's fall. Her undertaking the Test of the Starstone and her subsequent ascension Her taking Araznis place and then when Aroden fell her taking over his clergy .c

Centered on the alter is a double human size statue of Iomedae holding a sword aloft, with the stainglass windows designed to cast light on the sword as long as there is a sun in the sky. Standing in front of the altar was Hal kneeling before a priestess dressed in white robes with red trim. A longsword is belted on outside of the robes. She has reddish blonde hair that is pulled up tight on her head in a bun. Her face looks weary and as she hears Damian's bear quiet footfalls she glances at him as does Hal.

Hal jumps up saying this is Damian, my friend I told you about Lady
Cirthana

She stopped talking to the young knight and turned looking at the veiled  sorcerer. And she said with a smile welcome to The Inheritors Temple Damian. Harrold has told me so much about you since coming to talk to me about his upcoming purpose and quest. He tolde you are cursed? With some sort of disfigurement that makes you go completely covered. Have you never sought out divine restoration ? Perhaps I can help with that if you'd care to let me see the disfigurement?

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

Helican looked at the odd gnome sitting on the counter blowing smoke animal shapes and laughing with glee. He moved through the strange store carefully until he got before the counter.

The gnome laughed at the smoke 🐊 and then at Helican and sighed saying less gleefully I suppose it's time for business eh? what can I do you for?

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

Zurik heardsome noise to his left  and heard a female voice...not what he was expecting respond... As he turned he saw a female dwarf with a broad grin buttoning up her bodice. aye I thought I heard a voice that can only come from one of the forge born. she grinned and strutted down the hall to where Zurik was standing

Behind her a rather handsome and well groomed halfling with silver hair and sparking blue eyes came out trying to get himself together he was saying Tagrik ...dear ..you know I'm *ahem* at work and it wouldn't...isn't ..app he was cut off by the more boisterous and far taller woman oh Vammy hush now you know Kreed wouldn't dare mess with you with me and The Daleson watching out for you and then she took a couple more strides to the Zurik and held out a hand. Her bodice buttoned

I'm Tagrik Stoneshear Deputy Sheriff in Falcons Hollow and this blushing handsome fellow, is my beau Vamros the Towns Magistrate.

Vamros sighed heavily and said just so. how can I be of service good sir?
--------------------------

As Marianna and Larianna got closer they could see in the building through the door as the line stretched the other way. They saw a railthin dark skinned woman with a pair of spectacles perched on her nose  and heard the logger in front of her running through symptoms and she shook her head and said Clyde has the whole camp been infected with black scour? Kreed should help with my supplies.  she pulled a jar out from under her counter and pulled from it one of 7 remaining packets. She handed the packet to him saying when you get back to camp. set the herbs in this packet to brewing in a pot. when it's boiling cover the pot and your head with your cloak until the steam is no longer coming out of the pot. should be like 10 minutes. oh did I say to take it off the fire first? do that. don't want it to still be boiling and catch your cloak afire. she then reached back to a shelf and pulled a bundle of recently baked biscuits and handed him 1 saying take a bite out of this each day for 5 days. it won't taste good. don't put anything on it to improve it's taste . that might ruin the medicine inside it. Clyde please drop me a silver in the jar and send the next person in.

A rather short laborer with the sniffles went inside leaving Imgur next in line standing right beside the two ladies

Helican watched the smoke animal shapes with a sense of amusement as well, joining the gnome in slight chuckle. "That is a neat trick. Is that a property of the smoke or some other magic?"

In reply to GM Dread (msg # 107):

Vamros sighed heavily and said just so. how can I be of service good sir?

"Oh, Aye?" said Zurik, somewhat archly.  "I come to ken if ye'll have a map of the environs.  I's bintold that ye do, fer the asking.  I mentioned to the boys at the wharf that I have a mind to search out some possible ruins of our (& here he acknowledges Stoneshear) people.  I know there's trouble afoot; I kin sense it.  But me mind is made up; I'ma going.  Though, if ye had any advice, Deputy Sherrif, or Magistrate just the same, I'd thanke for it."

The line was slowly moving. To pass the time, Larannia continued talking to the tiefling. "We will need to pick you up some warm clothing. It may be a long hunt and being prepared for any weather will increase our chances of survival and success." It was then the young druid heard the dark woman speak about something called 'The Black Scour'. With nothing else to do but wait, the elf tried to remember if she knew anything about the condition.

OOC:

13:19, Today: Larannia Stormtree rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Medicine Roll.

A sad smile fills his voice in response to the priestess. "It was divine magics misapplied that brought about my wretched condition. Despite fonts of succor and Sarenrae's companionship no relief has come." He lets out a mournful breath. "I fear that I have spent too much of my fortune on spells and tinctures that have failed to cure my woes at this time. It is with great dismay that I believe only a direct act of the highest powers could restore my flesh to its previous modesty." He tilts his head forward in solemn contemplation before shaking off the losses.

In a far more cheery tone he continues. "But my sorry state is not what causes me to darken your halls this day. Rather, a company, that until recently counted good Hal among its members, is going to be crossing through the woods to the north and the Daleson suggested that you, or your parishioners, may have a request or two as we are in the area. So you see my Good Lady, I come not looking for assistance, but offering it instead." He declares with a half bow.

"That makes sense, I guess. Guess we should hope there's an outfitter somewhere in town." She took a slight pause, before pivoting the conversation suddenly "Have you been at this long? Being an adventurer and so on, I mean"

Larannia shook her head slightly at Marianna's question. "This is the first time away from my tribe. But I watched and learned from the hunters. Then The Elder imparted some of his wisdom to me before I left. Now do you understand why I need your help?"

Disregarding the question being asked, Marianna became more intrigued on the wrong part of the conversation.

"Do you miss them? Your family and your tribe? Being with the same people for...I don't even know how long, and to suddenly leave, I'm sure that's a big change for you."

Larannia's face became somber, her movements became subdued as she seemed to stare out at nothingness. "Sometimes you are forced along a path you would not normally take."

"I know all about that." Marianna replied with a loud exhalation "main reason I'm out here is because there isn't really any place for me to go. My adoptive parents were great,  couldn't ask for anyone better, but they were usually the only ones I had in my corner. With them gone..." the tiefling held her breath in for a moment, getting her words together "when life has no direction, any road will take you there."

Trying to avoid a pity party, she gently nudged the elf with her elbow "but hey, at least you've got people to go back to when this is all over, right? I'm sure that'll make everything seem worth it."

Larannia tried to put on a brave smile. "Indeed. When this is all over." The Elder had told the young druid never to tell anyone about her visions. Some would try to use them for evil. In all of the visions she has had over the years, none ever showed her surviving the fight with the Dragon.

Lady Cyrana frowned and said in response to the first part of Damian's comment. How can that be? I've never heard of Divine magic going awry like that. what temple had you gone to?

when Damian quickly and deftly changed the topic to help with her problem...she sighed. another time then. yes Deldrin is correct, except not one of my parishioners. unfortunately worship of The Sword Maiden has not caught on as my efforts would show. however a humble hunter, a servant of Erastil, did come to me for assistance with a blessing of good luck in his upcoming hunt in the Darkwood. of course I did. that was 6 days ago. he's missing. I'd be much obliged if you could look for him if you plan on entering the forest. if you find him and can bring him home safely I'd have a reward for you. a silver longsword . the silver isn't pure, but it's sufficient to harm werewolves and such.
-------------------------

The gnome smiled at Helicans question, why maybe a little of both my good man. are you a student of magic then?

--------------------------
The herbalist finished treating the latest and waved Imbur into the shop. And her eyes glanced at the two women standing near him. hello Imgur, are these two ladies with you? what brings you to my shop?
---------------------------

Zurik waited for an answer for what seemed like long minutes before Targik smiled and said if yur thinkin to go explorin the ruins around these parts, closest is the ole Monestary. Best be careful bout it though. Rumor has it a kobold tribe has staked claim to the chambers below ground. then she looked at Vamros and said Vammy hon, go grab one of those maps you give out to the adventurers coming through town for my kinsman wouldya love?!

While the deputy had been talking, the Magistrate was getting his clothing together and presentable behind her then when spoken to her said with his face still red. ok Zurik. let me grab it. he moved behind the counter and when he moved around behind it, it was obvious a ramp and walkway was behind it so the halfling stood about a foot above Zurik. He leaned over and brought out a scroll tube made of tanned leather and said I normally charge 1 silver for these, but for you the charge will be 2 copper. free if you, log in the name of your company and it's members in my logbook there.

Imbur gives a warm smile to the herbalist.  "I'm actually doing alright.  Just brought the boys down and wanted to know if there is anything I can be doing for their health right now.  Make your job easier."<blue>  He looks at the two women behind him, who he hadn't been paying much attention to.They look different enough from the locals that he raises a bushy eyebrow. <blue>"Ladies," he says, to acknowledge their presence, "If you have business with this fine herbalist, I can tell you she has never let me or mine down."
He stands aside to let them into the shop, staying by the doorway, both a little curious and a little protective of the local establishment.

"Very decent o ye; very decent indeed.  Been in a lotta towns on the edge, I have.  Seems a good one, yourn - still early, but seems a good one.  Aye, and Aye.

But me two coppers'll haveta do, they will.  Not sure there will be a company, though might be good to set out with a strong back or two.  Who needs talkers, and not doers, though, eh?  Some folks all make plans to make plans, but nae act.  So then, I can make my mark on a ledger, but no company as yet."

OCC: -2 CP

The herbalist shop smelled wonderful. There were so many different aromas and fragrances that Larannia wished she could smell them all. The smells were not as natural as being in a real forest, but it was better than nothing. Gone was the irritating smell of wood dust and the horrible tang of metal. But now was not the time to spend hours looking at everything. They had to get ready for The Hunt.

The young druid gave a small smile and a thankful nod to the towering half-orc as it seemed the duo was next in line. Larannia had read and was told orcs and their half cousins were loud, brutish and barely intelligent. That one was none of those things and she could clearly see a keen intellect behind his eyes. Maybe The Elder was right when he said it was better to experience the lands firsthand and not only from a book. The wood elf quickly discarded anymore thoughts of the half orc and concentrated on the task at hand.

Larannia gave that same small smile she always had when meeting new people. "Greetings. I am Larannia and this is my traveling companion Marianna." The wood elf waved toward the tiefling. "We are about to travel through the Darkwood Forest for A Hunt. Jak told us you might need someone to find some herbs for you. I have lived all of my life in the forest and know my way around herbs. I am also here to pick up any supplies that would be helpful for long journeys and have a few extra things for my healing tools."

"As a matter of fact I am, though I have yet to conjure the arcane myself I'm afraid. I am here to procure materials for a trip into the wilderness. I have a bit of coin, but a bit less knowledge on what might be needed for a sizeable adventuring party to succeed. Might you have that expertise?"

Imbur's ears pick up at the comments about a hunt, but he keeps silent for now, wanting to hear more.

"We would gladly assist a lost hunter. Would you have any other information about him? A name and description perhaps?" He asks politely.

In reply to Larannia Stormtree (msg # 121):

"I'm just here to keep her out of trouble" Marianna added with a meager wave. "I'll take what she's getting, if you have enough for doubles"

The priestess nodded with a wry grin as she pushed her hair back from her face and said of course of course. his name is Barlus Chortin. he's roughly Harralds size. black beard and hair. mid 30's eyes the color of the forest. he dresses in leathers I knew he was entering the forest at lumber camp 2 heading towards the river.

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

The gnome grinned and with a sparkle in his eyes said well I may at that. I have outfitted several adventuring parties in my day. that largely depends on how much coin you have to spend And where you plan to go. . He then looked expectantly at Helican to see what he said

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

Laurel brightened significantlyat the young Druids words. a fellow Herbalist perchance?. Her thon arm reached up and pushed the glasses back up her nose as she looked at Larianna then glanced at Marianna when she spoke.

yes yes I do need something drastically. Ironbloom Mushrooms.. I find my supply severely less than needed with this onslaught of Blackscour Taint. it's quite useful in helping the healing process and lessening the severity of it. I only have 6 uses left. I would need at least a dozen of the mushrooms. this season when I went looking on the fringe of the forest, I found little available. so a deeper search is needed. I know it frequently can be found wherever metal is heated, as the ash from iron helps the fungus grow. though I also know it can be found in wetlands in lesser amounts. my mother, Erastil bless her, used to get it near the hag haunted hollow...errr Ulzmillas old cottage area, which is somewhat marshy. she then describes an approximate location on the west side of the river towards the north and the territory of the Fey. She continuesUlzmilla, The Hag, has been quite dead for sometime. but the area is still quite dangerous. if you bring me back at least 12 mushrooms, I can let you choose from among my alchemical creations with reason, for each member of your group that goes upon receiving them. as for supplies, what do you need?

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

The halfling took the 2 coppers,showed the map to Zurik and oriented it for him then asked if he had any questions?

OOC: Can I use a Cooking Lore skill to see if I can gleam anything else about this mushroom? If it's used in any type of cuisine, there's at least a chance (probably at a higher DC, I would think)

In reply to Marianna Cross (msg # 127):

Similarly, can I use Forest Lore to know any other potential locations around the vale?

Larannia gave a slight nod.

"I have been collecting herbs as soon as I could walk. I will look for these mushrooms during our hunt. As for what I need, herbs that can be crushed into a paste to help healing of cuts and bruises, something to put in water to help with endurance and some herbs to help the body fight poison. Do you have anything that would help with that?"

The wood elf hoped she could find the mushrooms in a wet area and nowhere near where metal had been involved. The stench of which would most likely make her vomit. That thought reminded her.

"Do you also have something that could fit in a pouch to help lesson the smell of horrible odors?"

OOC:

DM: Please make a roll of medicine +5 for character to remember anything about the Blackscour Taint.

[Secret to Larannia Stormtree: you know Blackscour Taint is a fungal infection that gets into the respiratory system . it's not fatal unless the person is elderly or prone to pneumonia and has difficulties. but it's quite debilitating causing coughing, a slight fever, chills, wheezing, difficulty breathing and can lead to pneumonia.


ooc: I'll look over what's available a little later but for now...

She looks over her herbs on the shelf and looks at the Druidess and says simply may I assume you are looking for simple more coat effect herbs as opposed to full alchemical items? For perspective I have antidotes for poison that are 3 Gold each, or I have a tea that is a mixture of Dandelion, nettle and burdock root for 1 gold. The antidote truly aids in surviving poisons, while the other aids your ability to treat poisons. For 5 gold I can give you the 10 doses of the tea, 10 doses of Extripia, the marching herb that when chewed helps the body fight fatigue and 10 poultices that will help your medicinal treatment which have woundwort, mandrake root and moss within to stop bleeding.

Larannia gave slight nods as The Herbalist went through what was available. The amount of stinking metal coins wanted sounded high but was expected for items that could save lives. But the young druid learned what herbs were needed to do specific things. All she had to figure out was the quantity needed for the mix. Maybe in the future, the wood elf would be able to buy recipes.

The young druid gave a small smile.

"How much total for half of each dose? Five doses of the tea, five doses of Extripia and five poultices to help stop bleeding?"

She smiled back wearily and said  well that's easy. normally I'd just have it, but as I can tell you have the best interest of others at heart I'll do the half of each for only 1 Gold. does that work?

Larannia's eyebrows rose up in surprise. She then gave the woman a modest bow. "Thank you very much. That will work nicely." The young druid reached into her belt pouch, took out one of the gold coins and placed it on the counter. The wood elf then absentmindedly wiped the hand along the hide armor of her thigh. Was she ever going to get used to touching metal?

As she waited for the herbs to be gathered together, Larannia turned towards the tiefling. "After this, we will need to get you some cold weather clothing just in case. A cold weather illness could slow us down. Also, the clothing could be used to soften the cold hard ground while sleeping."

As the two women turn to go, discussing cold weather clothing, IMbur shifts slightly. "Have you considered at all, the value a local guide might have to your little group?"

"Thank you very much, Sister. We will do what we can to find out what happened and if possible to bring him home." He bows his head in acknowledgement. "Unless there are other tasks you have for me I should probably be getting back to my fellows."

Larannia's sky blue eyes narrowed at the hulking brute's condescending tone. She did not know what was worse, giving no greeting or introduction when first encountering a stranger or having to crane her neck just to look up at the imposing figure. Maybe that was just how half-orcs were, rude barbarians trying to live in a civilized world. Elves did not have the best reputation in human lands either.

Concentration and control.

That thought calmed the young druid's emotions. The Elder had warned that she would have to learn to tolerate the other races and work together. It also helped that the different fragrances in the herbalist shop masked most of the stink from the half-orc's very large metal axe.

For the most part, she kept the irritation from showing on her face and voice. "You will have to go to the Jak'a'napes and find a human man with ink-stained fingers and smells of old scrolls. He is the one that...considers things."

Damian and Zurik were the first two back to Jak-A-Napes. They found the table they had been sitting at and sat down . Zurik put the map on the table showing the Darkmoon Vale nestled in-between the mountain range to the north  and westand The Foam River to the south. The badlands to the east of Falcons Hollow the last barrier. The Darkmoon Forest was bisected by a river except to the north where there was a lake the river came out of implying an underground source for the water. Far enough north and you could walk around the water barriers.

He pointed all this out and where Droskars Crucible was on the map...at the base of the foothills before Droskars Crag.

The method they travelled would bring up its own issues....by boat? To the western bank and inland...by boat to the foothills and north...by foot to the river...and cross the river in some manner. By foot the long way north and around the lake and then south

He looked expectantly at Damian.

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

Helican entered into a lengthy discussion about supplies and boats and the Darkmoon Vale as he received the gold coins for the ear rings. Unsure of what to get he excused him self saying he'd be back and left to come back to the inn. Returning just slightly before Larianna and Marianna with Imbur following entered as well

Helican waved a hand at Marianna, Larianna, and Imbur.

"I hope your trips were more beneficial than mine. Felt like it took a week, and while I got the earrings sold, I just couldn't come up with a judicious way to spend the funds having never committed myself to a trek through the wilderness before" Helican shook his head, a bit of shame at his failed shopping trip.

Larannia's sky blue eyes noticed the dwarf and the robed one looking over a map. Most likely trying to decide what route the group should take. The wood elf then glanced around the very open and public area of the inn and gave a slight frown before walking toward the group looking at the map.

When she spoke, her voice was lowered so it would be harder for anyone further away to hear. "We were told there is another faction gathering information on groups leaving for hunts. If you do not want further complications, I suggest we make plans in a more private setting."

The young druid then waved a hand towards the towering half-orc and spoke normally. "This is Imbur. He overheard us buying supplies for a hunt and suggested it would be helpful to have a guide. I agree. But if he noticed us preparing for a trip, others would have also. The longer we wait, the more likely of future problems.

Larannia then looked at the human with the ink fingers and shook her head. "That was my fault and I apologize. I should have known someone who only reads and writes books would not know anything about surviving outside a library. But you did well selling the rings."

She then held out a hand. "Give me what you received for the rings and I will get the items that will help with the group's survival." The young druid then looked at too tall brute. At least she was far enough away not to make her neck sore. "Care to join me? Your knowledge of the area would be very helpful deciding what is needed."

OOC:

OK DM, Unless there is an important encounter, do you want to give me a list that is available or do you just want me to start buying from the players book and tell you what was bought?
This message was last edited by the player at 14:06, Sat 22 Apr 2023.

Helican nodded to the very take charge elf, he appreciated it honestly. He handed the coin over to her in the pouch he received it in. "Would you mind if I accompany you and take notes. I take your criticism to heart and this seems to be an area I lack knowledge in. I'd like to learn though..."

ooc: you can yes. You are limited to level 0 and 1 for your purchase.

The tall half-orc nods; he wasn't certain Laranni had cared for him or thought him useful.
He looks down at the map, trying to glean what he can about where this group is headed, and what other groups might be interested in their task.

"We should probably figure out the path we plan to take before you start making purchases. Just in case we need something specific. For instance, a boat." He says softly while tracing a gloved finger up the river towards their target.

The Hidden One had a point. There was no point shopping for a trip if one did not know what path was to be taken. Larannia glanced around at the others and noticed they were very quiet. The wood elf let out a loud sigh due to frustration. "Fine then. Let us go to the room where Marianna and I will be staying in." With that decided, the young druid turned away from the others to walk to her room.

Larannia was a little angry. The hulking brute had an excuse. He might not have a room at this inn, but she knew the others did. Could nobody make a decision for themselves? Was it going to be this way the entire hunt? Maybe she was just overreacting. The Elder always told her that she tended to act before thinking. Sometimes it was a good thing, for it tended to get things done. But that did not stop her from wanting to zap something to alleviate some pent-up aggravation.

Concentration and control.

It would not go well if she accidently caused a fire. She tried to think about how the others would vote on what route to take. Ink Fingers would want to go by boat. He would love to be stuck in a cabin for weeks, doing nothing but write in his book. The Hidden One was most likely so deformed, he would not be able to walk long distances and a stiff breeze would knock him down. Marianna would just go with the flow. But the tiefling looked in shape enough to travel by land.

Then there was the dwarf. She had once read that dwarves hated traveling long distances over water. But you could not believe everything you read. Then there was the dwarf's short stature. It would slow down the group as a whole when going over land. The Big Towering One could go either way.

As for herself, going over land would give her the opportunity to gather herbs to help the others and living in the forest had kept her in shape to travel long distances. Going by river, she could use the gifts of wind to make the ship go faster. If the Captain allowed her to do so. As a precaution, she would have to pray to Gozreh to be able to breath underwater.

Larannia opened the door to her room and waited for the others.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:46, Tue 25 Apr 2023.

Helican could sense the tension, he had unintentionally angered the group. Rightfully so, they were hired to do this job and his only assigned task he'd failed on. He shouldn't have offered to do the shopping, that was on him. From now on he would stick to tasks he knew he could succeed at.

"Of course..." he nodded as he followed Larannia and any others to her room.

The group left the inns common room and made there way upstairs to the druids room. After entering Zurik spread the map out on a bed and they all began looking at it.

ooc: you can check map out either in the map location of the game forum or larger with travel times on roll 20. How do you guys want to travel

The others hovered over the map like leaders of old deciding the next stage of their conquests. A halfhearted suggestion here, a weak rebuttal there, before a totally incompetent idea would spring up and the cycle would begin anew. They were wasting time with all the talking! A leader was sorely needed but it could not be herself. She was not very good with people and tended to act without thinking in times of danger. Not a good quality for a leader to have. But it was time to act now.

The wood elf was not standing with the others that were surrounding the map. Larannia was a little further away, back against a wall, arms crossed over her stomach, and pretty sky-blue eyes staring at the far wall. She had seen the map and knew the possible routes.

"There is also the other faction to worry about. Going by river will give them total control and opportunity to deal with us if they do not want our hunt to succeed. Going by land, we can be unpredictable and confuse them. Splitting up, leaving town at different times and starting out in different directions before meeting up later."

The young druid stopped leaning against the wall, unfolded her arms and looked down at her hands, palm up. The woof elf's hands were tan, fingers and palm rough from many years of climbing and cutting herbs in the forest. But this will be her first time out in the world. This was only the first step in her long journey to face the dragon. Even if the journey would eventually lead to her dead, she will not faulter. She was Stormborn!

The smell of ozone filled the room.

Excitement and determination flowed through Larannia. She had been keeping it bottled up too long. It was time for a...little release. Small arcs of blue and white lightning started to dance along the druid's forearms before moving to play between her fingers. A sizzling sound quickly followed by a soft pop could be heard. She was now looking at the others. The beautiful sky-blue eyes were gone. In their place, were dangerous and uncaring stormy gray ones.

"Choose your pain."

OOC: For obvious reasons, Larannia wants to go by land. Also, there was not really a time limit. More time....more xp....more levels!!
This message was last edited by the player at 14:37, Sat 29 Apr 2023.

Marianna laughed nervously, as she tried to figure her new friend out. There was something she wasn't telling, and Marianna wasn't sure if she really wanted to know.

"Eheh, I think I'll choose the path of least resistance."

Helican had kept his back to a nearby window as an escape option and as Larannia's words chased anxiety up into his throat he wasn't sure whether he should use it or not.

"Same...as far as least resistance. Though, I have already taken one boat up the river recently, and I wouldn't mind traveling by foot for a while."

   "Should be five daysh journey by foot.". Durrak says, his deep voice filling the room.  "With a few rashionsh each, to shupplement what I can hunt and forage, we should be comfortably well fed." . He finishes, as he lights his pipe, the  rich, deep aroma of the smoke starting to drift upwards.
   His eyes lingered for a long moment on each member of the assembled group, considering them.  The elf, Larannia, was the least of his concerns.  She had the appearance of one who knew enough of the woods to survive.  The orc blooded looked enough like he could survive with little assistance, and he'd heard he was a local.  The scholar, the Tiefling, and the robed figure, they would need watching.  Likely too use to civilized comforts, and structure.  Such folk often perished in the lonely wild, lacking the training or experience he had in traveling forgotten paths, and ancient wilderness.  His thoughts shifted as he smoked, and he chuckled briefly.  If Kreed knew how little he controlled the paths in this area, or how vulnerable his consortium was here, he'd have die of rage and frustration.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
I will be putting his thoughts in italics, unless there is another convention used here.

---

This message was last edited by the player at 12:12, Tue 02 May 2023.

"Well, whatever you're able to scrounge up, I'm sure I'd be able to make it taste at least halfway decent"

Damian nods thoughtfully at each of the suggestions offered. "Personally I like the river. It is the fastest and most direct route. Sparky raises a good point about it signaling the route that we plan to take though. Otherwise, our only real option is to go all the way around the lake. I wouldn't want to try to cross the river up here without a boat, unless someone has a spell for breathing underwater or water-walking." He looks at the group. Before continuing, "So I guess that settles it. With only one real option that's the one we take. We'll leave at first light unless someone has a reason for heading out now?" He begins to stow the map while waiting for any comments.

Concentration and control.

Larannia slowed her breathing and pushed the frustration she was feeling down. The lightning arcs moving along the druid's forearms and hands vanished. Sky-blue eyes returned. The wood elf was surprised at some of the answers. Maybe they were not as dense as she first thought. But more had to be done and done quickly.

"We need to do something unexpected to throw the hunters off our trail. Marianna and I will buy the last of the supplies and then leave town." Larannia then quickly walked over next to The Hidden One and pointed at a location on the map before it was fully closed.

"We will wait for all of you a few miles along the river to the west. The rest will leave in pairs, an hour or two after each group. Everyone should arrive before nightfall. We will travel along the river for the reliable water source, and we can use the forest when cover is needed. If we do this quickly, our watchers will be ill prepared to follow. They most likely know we bought rooms here but will not expect us not to use them."

Filled with renew purpose, Larannia stalked boldly to the door but paused a moment as her hand touched the nob. She looked over her shoulder at the others.

"Agreed?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:57, Wed 03 May 2023.

"Sounds perfectly reasonable to me." Helican chanced a grin, he was still feeling his bruised ego but he knew that once he was able to put his knowledge to good use the others would see his value!

"How do you propose to cross the river? It is not a minor obstacle." He taps the map at the river joint. "Or if you want to go around the lake then we are better served by taking the road north to the lumber camp." While he was fine taking a different path than the one he suggested he wanted to make sure that it had been fully thought through and not some half-cocked idea that got the elf out of town fastest.

ooc: Marianna and Imbur are the only ones who haven't logged into roll20. everyone else should be able to go there and should be able to see the area map with travel times. if this isn't the case let me know.


So here's a break down of times and obstacles that might impede travel. That would come up if we were playing around my table in person.

Route 1. Rowboat along River Foam from Falcons Hollow to hills below Droskars Crucible.
3 days along river 2 days walking through hills from river 5 days total
Threats: river monsters or creatures at night as you camp. Creatures in hills and Kobolds as you head to Crucible on foot.

Route 2. Walking along River Foams bank from Falcons Hollow to junction with Darkmoon River 4 days along river. Then 2 days along River Foam in the southern part of The Darkmoon Forest. Then 2 days through hills to Crucible...8 days
Obstacle: crossing Darkmoon River
Threats: river monsters and creatures at night while you camp. Werewolves in Southern Forest. Creatures in hills and Kobolds

Route 3: follow trail to Lumber Camp 1 then through Darkmoon Woods until Darkmoon River Cross River and Through Forest to Droskars Crucible. 1 day along trail to lumber camp. 2 days to river through Forest. 2 days after crossing river through forest to Crucible. 5 days total
Obstacle: Crossing Darkmoon River
Threats: creatures in farmlands, Kreeds men in lumber Camp, Werewolves in Southern Forest. Creatures on the woods. River monsters crossing river. Kobolds nearing Crucible.

Route 4. Quickest Route: 1 day by trail to Lumber Camp 2. 1 day in forest to Darkmoon River. Across River. 2 days through Darkmoon Forest to Crucible: 4 days.
Obstacle: crossing River
Threats: Kreeds men in lumber camprumored blacks beast hunting lumberjacks, Kobolds, river creatures when crossing River.

Route 5. 1 day on trail North to Lumber Camp 3. 1 day through Darkmoon Forest to the Darkstream. Across the stream and 1 day to The Elder Tree (oldest tree in forest). 1 day to Hags Haunted Hollow in marshlands within Forest. 2 days to Crucible in Darkmoon Forest.6 days travel.
Obstacle: wading through Stream.
Threats: creatures in farmlands. Kreed men in Lumber Camp. Fey in North woods. Creatures in Haunted Hollow. Forest creatures. Kobolds near Crucible.

This message was last edited by the GM at 15:18, Thu 04 May 2023.

Larannia gave The Robed One a quick nod.

"You are correct. The river is not a minor obstacle but Gozreh's blessing to breath under water would help with that if needed." She figured Damian would want to stay away from the water because he would have to take off his robes and show the disfigurement. The group just might have to take the very long way to ease the man's embarrassment. Then another thought struck the wood elf.

"My tribe always said the forest has many ears. Do the walls in a city?" The druid's face contorted in puzzlement. "I just thought it wise to meet outside the town and away from any ears that would be curious while we make the big decision."

OOC: Really do not care what route to take. Just want to finally get out of the city and do some adventuring!

"And are you able to provide that blessing to the rest of the group? Breathing water is not an issue for me but I cannot pass the ability on to others." He unfolds the map again, seemingly oblivious to Larannia's discomfort with the small room. "Perhaps we should reconsider the boat? It is the only method that doesn't take weeks of travel and bypasses the obstacle of the river. Not to mention seems to have the fewest dangers. What say you all?"

Larannia folded her arms and shook her head sadly.

"Then you plan to make our hunter's job easier? It would be easy to trap us on the boat as they massacre us."

Damian's annoyance at the contrariness coming from the elf starts to invade his tone "You only said that there is a faction gathering information on those going on hunts. You haven't told us where you have gotten the idea that they are going to be actively working against us. From what you've told us it could simply be the head MFWIIC who wants to tax us when we return. Is there more information you would like to share with the group or do you just want everything to go your way, child?" He has turned his head as he addressed Larannia and she can feel his glower despite not being able to see his eyes. "If you have a reason to avoid this, the simplest, most direct, path other than your as yet unsubstantiated fears. Please, share."

Durrak pulls on his pipe as he watches the two squabble, sending a thick ring of smoke into the air.  "There ish no need to shtay together.  Those who wish can take the river, while othersh take the road.  It may allay their shushpishions with multiple small groupsh going in shepperate directshionsh. Shertainly I have no deshire to travel the river.". He says, his deep voice kept low, but filling the room with it's baritone.

"I'd think it best not to split the group, we may inadvertently weaken ourselves to the point of not being able to deal with otherwise trivial challenges. Given that we've never worked with one another we don't yet know enough about each others strengths to formulate a good plan of who would travel by boat, and who by land." Helican stopped a moment to put any further thoughts into order, he could feel the tension rising again, this would need to be squashed at some point, but from his own experience groups could learn to work together and respect each other's skills and crafts without necessarily liking each other.

"Given that we are new, I think we have to balance speed with safety. Larannia brings up a good point about boat travel leaving us open to being attacked, not just by men but also beasts that we might be ill equipped to fight on or in the water. I know my skillset does not lend itself to that. Over land we can travel as a group, following whoever among us is an expert in navigating the terrain. My vote is for the fifth route that we outlined." Helican trailed the displayed map with his finger to indicate the route. "...besides, the story will be much more interesting with names like Elder Tree, Hags Haunted Hollow, and the Darkmoon Forest." he grinned a bit to show this was not actually the most important thing to him, though he hoped others wouldn't take it as showing a lack of seriousness.

The young druid's frustration and anger evaporated. In its place was pity and a deep sadness. They were doing the predictable and easy route. The Visit and The Trap was going to happen, no matter what she did. What was the point of these visions if nothing could be done to change them? A large tower billowing fire and smoke crashing on top of a fleeing family, a crowded marketplace ingulfed in a fireball and the screams of the dying echoing through the night washed in a red light. Of course, the others would want to do the easy way for the hunt. Who would not? But they did not know.

Without a word, Larannia turned around, opened the door and walked away. She still had to get some supplies. The others will want to leave in the morning. Easy, predictable, and safe. They will soon learn the safer route is not normally the best. There was only one question to wonder about.

Who was going to pay the blood price?
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:19, Sun 07 May 2023.

"You're worried about stories?" Her mouth hung open as her mind started to run ahead of her good sense, and need a moment to pause. "Whether anyone cares to hear what we have to say or not, sticking together is the most prudent call."

"Who isn't worried about what stories people will share of them when they are gone? But maybe that's just the writer in me."

"Why think anyone will tell stories of you when you're gone when nobody wants you around in the first place?"

"Your words are practical, if not cutting milady" Helican adjusted the collar of his shirt uncomfortably.

Damian sighs dramatically at the melodramatic exit of the Druid and mutters something under his breath before speaking out loud. "Splitting up is only going to make us easier targets for any opposition we may face and any challenges will be that much harder to overcome. Personally, I hope no one sings of me when I'm gone, though I fear they may.

I am not set on any one route, I just want a good reason for that one over the fastest one. If none of you want to be in a boat then I am guessing that you don't want to try to swim across a river. Then only one option remains. The longest, driest, path. Are we agreed?" He looks at each of his soon-to-be travelling companions. Letting his gaze linger on each of them long enough for them to respond with a nod or some other sign.

"If you're bent on shecreshy, then the long path it ish".. Durral says, as he puffs in his pipe thoughtfully.  "Otherwishe, the road would get ush there in five daysh.". He finishes, as the others decide their course.  It matters little to him, though he was not going on the boat.  The wilderness was as much home to hime as his own Clanhold, and a journey through it was never unpleasant.

Decisions made the group of uneasy allies parted company heading to their respective rooms to consider what they'd discussed. After getting an evening meal in smaller groups and partaking in some drink sleep was a welcome visitor in the safety of the Inn. Tomorrow would start their first day 'adventuring' and eagerness and intrepidation were in their thoughts.


Morning came quicker than any had wanted and preparations were made and then an early meeting in the common room, which was empty in the predawn period that the group had chosen as their meeting hour

The smell of baking came from the kitchen, and Jackie smiled as they came downstairs


She had a light breakfast of hot meat pies and cool peach cider prepared and small bundles of bread, fruit and nuts for each prepared to eat on the road...how she knew was beyond the group...perhaps it was her instinct as a former adventurer...seeing the faces of people new to the life.

The smells of the kitchen reached the wood elf as she descended the stairs. The pleasant smells would cover up the strong stench of metal for a time. The common room was empty, but it would not last long. With a grunt, Larannia heaved three sacks onto the table. They contained the extra supplies such as rations, a compass, extra torches and even some cold weather clothes for Marianna. Everything would be divided up evenly, including the metal coins not spent.

Larannia then sat at the table where she was facing the door entrance. The young druid seemed a little distracted at everything around her. The agitation and anger of the previous day was gone. While waiting for the others, the wood elf's sky-blue eyes kept glancing at the door.

Maybe it was nothing. Maybe the visions were just possibilities, and this was a good test. Maybe, The Visit would not happen at all.

Damian takes a seat next to Larannia. The faint aura of someone who has spend too much time around death and what most people would consider evil wafts from him as he tucks the package of travel foods into a bag and begins picking at a meat pie.

   Durrak was up before everyone, the sky still dark when he left the inn to smoke his pipe.  As the sun rose he watched it, the colors of the dawn slowly painting a new day.  Some time later, when he heard noise in the common room, he tapped out his pipe and went inside.  There, at a table, were the elf, and the cloaked person.  Without preamble, he walked over and sat upon a chair, leaning it back comfortably while he signalled the server for breakfast.

The only reply The Robed One received from the invasion of her mind was the gnashing of teeth. Larannia had heard stories of people talking to each other with their minds but was normally between good friends or lovers. It took a measure of trust to share thoughts with another, but he had just burst into her mind without even asking first! He would later hear about the insult using words from her mouth, if they survived The Ambush.

Then it was the stench of death as he sat beside her. It was almost as bad as the smell of metal...almost. While traveling in the woods, the smell would attract scavengers looking for an easy meal. Some of those scavengers also hunted in packs. Now the hunt could be harder with the increased chances of encounters. Was this misfortune just part of the young druid's trial? Was she being tested before the encounter with the dragon? Or was this a plan to toughen her up? It was best not to dwell on such things. There were many other problems to deal with first.

The wood elf was sure the magic user was going to perish due to overconfidence. From many tales from The Elder, she had heard of evil magical items that could leech thoughts from the air. All one had to do was be close enough. The others were not aware of the true danger while they were in town. But it was not the fault of the others. Why not stay in a nice room for one last night before travel? From what she had heard and seen; it was dangerous to make plans in the town itself.

The Elder had warned her that in towns and big cities, some leaders would be evil and corrupt. They would strive for power, influence and control by any means. The Lumber Consortium and the main leader Thuldrin Kreed. It was a very good chance that they knew of the sheriff's plan. If a group of adventures succeeded. It would give the sheriff more influence in the town, making the Consortium lose power and control.

It was the smalls things at first. When first arriving in the town, she overheard the protectors telling the dwarf that adventures who left to search for ruins never returned. Then they laughed. She was told by the sheriff himself that the protectors worked for Kreed. Were they somehow involved with the adventures never returning? Then it was the information she gathered while talking to the sheriff privately and then The Herbalist. The Consortium ruled over the town with an iron fist. If someone crossed them, bad things would happen.

Then add the dreams.

The dreams were not as clear as her visions, but she sensed a possible truth in them. They happened before the young druid arrived but learning of the town seemed to remind her of them. The first one was The Visit. It started in the very room she was sitting in now. Then a person, or a group of people entered through the door. Everything else was hazy except the feeling of dread, seeing a large evil smile and a pair of cold eyes staring at her.

Then there was The Ambush. Everything seemed jumbled and chaotic. But she had the impression of being surrounded, something flying by her head and feeling an impact against her shield. But they were just dreams. Larannia hoped they were nothing.

The young druid glanced at the door again. She was too nervous to be hungry.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:47, Sat 13 May 2023.

Helican came down, rubbing sleep from his eyes, and joined the others at the table. He was quiet, he had slept ok but his dreams were filled with anxiety and he was still trying to work through a few of the more troubling ones.

He began eating some of Jackie's provided food stuffs, but he didn't want to overeat before getting on the road, opting to instead snack when he needed to.

   The Dwarf spends several long minutes observing the other two at the table.  His keen eyes noticing subtle details others might miss.  Finally, he breaks the silence, his deep voice calm as he speaks to Larannia.  "Breath.". He states, meaning both to take a breath, and to calm herself.  "It ish eashier to flush shpooked prey than calm.".  The end of his sentence is shortly followed by the arrival of his breakfast.
   He too could smell the "scent" of decay around the robed figure.  He knew that scent, and nothing good ever came of it.  "Sheems we're bringin' our trouble with ush.  It'sh faint, but he can't hide the shmell of dry rot, and carrion.  Like Rotgut.
An' I've no Kin nor Guildfolk with me.. He gave a mental shrug.  "If they try anything, I knock off their head an' hang 'em by their anklesh ash a warning.". He thought to himself.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:32, Sat 13 May 2023.

Marianne struggled staying in her seat. She was used to being on the other side of this interaction and was feeling guilty for not being involved. She had to remind herself that she paid up for once, rather than working for her food.

"Well" she began with a hearty bite still in her mouth "I have a good feeling about this. Course, that could just be the honey
"

As the group gathered Larrania kept staring at the entrance door and her anxiety was apparent on everyone. Yet NOONE entered. After their respite the group gathered their things and stood preparing to exit. Still no sinister figure entered.

Jakie smiled at them. Gave Larrania a pat on the arm and I told you Lass none of Kreeds men dare to enter Jak-a-Napes. not does Kreed himself ever cross that threshold. no evil comes into my establishment. be safe on your journey. what awaits you out there, I can tell you that you've gathered a formidable group around you. it saddens me the lumberjack you picked up briefly isn't here. but you 5 have strength. I can tell. good travels and come back safe

Larannia quickly went out the door. Outside, she took a deep breath to calm down. A feeling of relief washed over her as The Visit did not happen. It was now most likely The Ambush was not going to happen either. This was just a normal hunt to find some information on a dwarf and his axe. But it did bother her on how it was connected with the vision of an imprisoned dragon.

As the wood elf waited for the others, she did unsling her shield and readied it. Maybe it was just the feeling of being in a town and the mind was playing tricks on her. Most of the danger encountered would be during traveling. But that did not stop her from keeping an eye on the surroundings.

OOC:

The extra supplies in the three sacks.

Gold:2
Silver: 5
Copper: 5

Winter Clothing (for Marianna)
Compass (In case separated and for characters with no skill or magic)
Flint and Steel
Rationsx3 (3 weeks of rations)
Rope
Sackx3
Signal Whistle
Soapx2
Torchx5

Damian followed closely behind Larannia. When he got outside he broke off a chunk of his meat pie and offered it to a dog that had been following him around the day before. When the morsel is gobbled up he pats the dog kindly on the head and scratches into the thick fur on its neck.  "You're a good boy aren't you?" He says playfully to the curr before tossing another tidbit for it to catch in the air. As the dog does so Damian's laugh fills the air around the group. "What a happy creature!" He says joyfully. "I guess we should get going though. The day isn't going to start itself." He declares, as though this is the same thing he's been doing every day for years, and yet finding new delight each time.

   Durraks' pack was on his shoulders, and a clan dagger hanging from his belt.  A Dwarven Waraxe and round wooden shield covered in black leather were slung across his back.  To the side of his pack was a quiver of five javelins.  Over his clothes he wore a well made suit of black leather armor, the metal joints covered in black suede.  On his head he wore a black Saxon style helmet.  He trudged along effortlessly beneath the bulk of his equipment.  "If there'sh truth to the elfsh' wordsh, any attack will happen oncshe we're out of shite of the town.  Best ta be alert.". He thought to himself as he walked.  Tucked into his belt was a leather packet, stuffed with smoked sausages, shart cheese, and brown bread.  He patted it contentedly, as it rested next to a skin of good stout.  It would be a fine lunch, if he got to eat it in peace.

Helican joined the others outside. He was happy they were going to be underway. He pulled his notebook out and penned an entry with the date, mid morning, and the words 'It begins...' he then stuffed it back into his pack and slung the pack over his shoulders. The straps were comfortable over top the padded armor he wore beneath his traveling clothes, and the feeling of his crossbow lightly pushing into his lower back gave him comfort as well.

"Anyone want to offer a prayer before we depart?" Helican wasn't particularly religious but he also wasn't ignorant of the Gods, and better to curry favor in anyway they could, thus was his opportunistic nature.

Larannia wrinkled her nose a moment at Ink Fingers suggestion.

"Gozreh might take offense if a prayer is given in a town that causes deforestation."

"Fair...fair. We can wait till we are outside of town then." he half grinned. It was the first time the elf hadn't berated him in a while, even non verbally.

"Hopefully he will be pleased that we are working towards a more balanced future in that regard." He adds while setting a brisk pace towards their first destination.

As the group were setting off, a stranger arrived and hailed them.  She was a fairly tall female half-orc and definitely not the half orc everyone had been expecting.

"Excuse me?" she asked politely, "But would you be the people waiting for Imbur?"

She paused to allow understanding to arise and then added, "He said something about Kreed knowing, if that means anything to anyone?  Anyway, he was my client, and now that he has gone into hiding, I find myself at something of a loose end and if you'll have me, I'll most happily take his place."

In truth, this is not an exact quote because her speech is filled with inanities, tangents, technical terms and complexities more suitable to a courtroom.

Yikes she's tall, Marriana thought. Why was she out here, when seemingly everyone is so intimidating?. Trying to get a hold of herself, she spoke for the group

"We'll let you take any place you choose miss, if you're heading our way..."

The young druid stopped listening as soon as the half orc mentioned that Kreed knew. Did he know the prize of the hunt? The route the group was going to be taking? They would have to assume he knew everything. It was his town after all. But Larannia felt no fear, anger or even agitation. It was like a warming calmness and a quiet strength enveloped her.

She imagined the path they had plan on going. It was a long, winding and held many different dangers. Along the path, were three places of shadow with figures moving within it. The things inside were waiting for them. Near the end of the path was a very large shadow that pulsed with a purple aura. Around that shadow, there was the coldness of death and bright red blood flowed on the ground.

The wood elf then tilted her head to the side, trying to listen intently.

Was that the sound of thunder? Larannia turned around and faced towards the docks. That would be the river path. Again, she imagined that path. It was shorter and held different kind of dangers but there were only two small areas of shadow. At the end of that path was a hazy fog. Kreed had to be intelligent. He would have known what path the group would take and took some precautions just in case.

Larannia knew this was her path. It just felt right. She was so confident in her decision, the elf put away the oak shield that was being held. Maybe the others will now follow. They had to follow their own path. The druid started to walk calmly towards the docks. When the elf spoke again, it was like she was talking through a dream.

"If you seek the blessing of Gozreh, you will travel along the river."

He chuckles warmly as Larannia seemingly turns about from her previous convictions against taking the river route. "That seems like a great way to throw off any plans that Kreed may have known about. Choose our own path at random." Even though he doesn't mind the change Damian watches the fickle druid carefully as he follows her unpredicted lead.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:26, Wed 17 May 2023.

Sophia, realising the strangeness of being addressed as 'miss' but initially unsure of why, finally introduced herself.  "Well if we'll be travelling together, I believe that I should at least introduce myself." She gives a little curtsey, more of a bob perhaps, and adds, "I'm Sophia by the way, and I feel honoured to make your acquaintances."

Then she adds her half-pennorth to the conversation by taking out a silver piece and asking, "Has anyone ever noticed that the two sides of a coin are different?  Well, when we came to a choice of two equally good routes, we could try tossing them and calling 'heads' for this side, and 'tails' for the other.  That produces a randomisation which I imagine might be difficult for noxious forces to foretell."

The group watched Larrania pivot and head towards the docks only to see two of Kreeds men watching her walk towards them and she paused for a moment.

Damien looked at The Elf and cocked his head to the side curiously.

The first of the shadows on the river path moved.

Larannia's sky blue eyes watched as what she assumed to be Kreed's men started walking towards the group. The sudden change on what path to take had forced them to move. They were most likely sent to shadow the group and maybe attack from behind when the opportunity arose. But now the men that Kreed sent had lost their initiative and the element of surprise. For right now, it would be six against two. But most likely others would be trying to get in possession. A fight in the town had to be avoided. Kreed had all the power here. The young druid tilted her head in seemingly confusion at the approaching men.

She then noticed The Hidden One at her side. The young druid disliked the man. It seemed like every fiber of her being was telling her to zap him in the face repeatedly. The wood elf could not explain the strong emotion. Besides invading her mind without permission and smelling of death, he had not done anything to incite such hate. But Larannia had to admit that she felt a little relief he was at her side. It also helped that he guessed some of the plan.

Then there was the half-orc. The woman talked too much, had no idea what was happening and how much danger she was in right now. Larannia was glad the tiefling was handling the newcomer for now. At this moment, all their lives were on a knife's edge.

The first part of the Druid of Storm's plan had succeeded. Forcing the shadows into the light.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:13, Thu 18 May 2023.

   His position barely changed, and his expression remained motionless.  His hand merely shifted forward onto his belt a bit, relaxed (almost), like he was waiting for a conversation.  His eyes though shifted slowly between the approaching people, studying them.  Lingering longer on the more dangerous looking of them.  But he voiced no words, and did not waste his time by moving towards them.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
marking the more dangerous of the two as his Prey, assuming such can be done unobtrusively.

---

Sophia considered the approaching members of Kreed's retinue.  She considered the two and waited to see which of them acted or spoke first, that one would be the subject of her case.  For now though, she remained in place watching the two approach. but also being aware of thoose around her, her new-found friends.

The two guards hold their crossbows easily in their arms. Obviously not looking for a fight. One of them says gruffly Paydays looking for ya. wants to ask ya a question.

Larannia gave a quick nod to the protector that spoke. Kreed was too smart to have an open conflict in the streets. The plan relied heavily on that fact.

"Of course. Lead the way." she managed to say with a smile. "As a Messager of Gozreh, I had need to speak with him also."

When she had first arrived at the town, the mission was to talk to the leaders of this place. The young druid had learned that she had to get through Payden 'Payday' Teedum to get an audience with the true leader of the town: Thuldrin Kreed. The message was for all the leaders, good and evil. It would take their combined might to defeat the dragon when the time came.

It was also a good chance to eliminate the group inside a building so there were no witnesses.

The wood elf turned slightly to Damian. "I have my path. You choose yours. I will go with the protectors and listen to the question. You can take the others and meet me at the boat or all of you can go the other way."

With nothing else to say, she was ready to go with the protectors.

Sophia watches the guard who spoke considering his weaknesses but to Larannia she asked, "Would you like me to come along in case you need a lawyer?"

"If it's all the same, I think I'll come with you. Call it a hunch but I think you might want me by your side in unfamiliar territory." He says softly, his tone is warm and rich, with a hint of wariness included.

"Looksh like your bossh will be reshieving more company than exshpected.". Durrak says, his deep voice firm.  "I hope he will be sherving refreshments.".  His stance shifted subtly,  seeming to expect movement of one sort, or another.  "Lead the way Ladsh."

Sophia  follows on as she investigates The Case of the Talkative Guard on behalf of her client, Larannia.

It doesn't take long for the group to go from the Low Market square to the Courtyard where Payden Teedum is meeting with a couple Lumberjack Foremen to start off the business day. A wagon of timber sits outside the courtyard and a few lumberjacks can be seen preparing for the day.

Payden, called Payday by everyone in town, turns and it's easy to see why. He looks like been in many a fights. And his hands are are scarred and meaty. When he speaks it's like far off thunder building. well well well if it isn't the new adventurers in town. welcome to the Consortiums Property. you can stand easy, if I wanted a fight wed already be scrappin. no I want to hire ya. the word out there is ya plan on going into the forest.. the boss finally gave me permission, after months of disappearances, to get youse guys to look into the black beast that is grabbing our workforce. Is rare I ask for help. Please don't cause me to regret it

"Sheein' ash we have na heard, nor agreed to termsh yet, regretin' it would be unlikely.". Durrak states, his deep voice clear in the morning air.  "What are ya offerin' ush ta look inta theshe dishappearances?". The stout Dwarf seems unconcerned by the man, and his "guards".  Business is business after all.

"One moment sir," says Sophia and you could almost hear the lower case s, "Are you sayng you plan to pay us for what we plan to do anyway?  As my colleague has already implied, what terms were you planning on offering?"

Larannia wanted to sneeze.

It was still early in the morning, so the large amount of wood dust had not started yet. But the area was still coated with it, effecting the young druid's sense of smell. She was still a little surprised that the others came along. They could have avoided the danger and been on their way. Everyone in the group were still strangers and it baffled her why they would want to come along. The wood elf would have to ponder it later for it looked like the negotiations has started.

The druid waited patiently as Payden introduced himself, being very condescending. He seemed used to getting his way by the power he held. Larannia was not surprised how the others replied to Payden's gruffness. The Overboss had no tact for negotiating. At least the two of them had that in common.

The Druid of Storms took a few steps away from the group and gave the Overboss a modest bow. He was someone of authority after all.

"I am Larannia Stormtree, Messager of Gozreh. I was sent to this town on a mission of my own. This town's purpose is to cut down the trees in the forest, leaving total devastation for coin. I would not shed a tear if Gozreh calls upon the tearing winds and crushing waters to obliterate this town. But the entity has other plans for this place. Your request fits into that plan. But know that this group understands your only offering the job because the lack of man power is effecting your profits."

The wood elf paused a moment to let what she said sink in.

"It may take something substantial for the others to take you up on your offer, but all I require is an audience with the Gavel of The Lumber Consortium, Thuldrin Kreed, when the job is done."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:08, Fri 19 May 2023.

Helican had joined the others, casually strolling along, he would need this for his story. The tension, the negotiations, the shady overboss character. All very intriguing, the scholars would hate it, but his new fans would love it!

He wasn't born yesterday though, as much as he was putting on the face of a naïve writer, he had ran a gang similar to this lumber consortium, he understood how the underworld ran. This wasn't a request at all really. This was a warning sign that read, 'Figure this out, or when you come back there'll be trouble', the group had no legs to stand on, even if they were legitimized by the town 'authority' he was just a figure head.

Payday smiled but his eyes showed mischievous anger at the Druidess'tone.

of course Miss...Larrania isn't it. we understand each other. you know we do this out of profit and I know you do the same. for profit can be measured in many ways. with that came a smirk.

You find this beast. Kill him and bring his body back for proof and you'll receive this nice shiny axe as reward.
he pointed towards the door to the Cutyards general store. A place lumberjacks can shop on credit.

Standing in it was a burly man with arms of steel who stood easily 6'5. He was balding but still had a thick wild beard. But it was what he was holding that caught their attention. A great axe made of the finest materials. Darkwood handle fine steel blade. The two-edged blade had a joint affixing itself to the wood and looked of a bearded dwarf holding the blades in two extended arms.

I'm told it's magical. we got it off a dead adventurer he let that lie in the air for a second then continued

and of course, you want to talk to the boss, I'm sure I could arrange that...when you're done of course. that was said with sincerity and just a little bit of malice

"Proof of death." He says as cold as death. "We're not hauling some monster corpse through the woods just so that you can confirm it's demise." All the warm joviality that he has shown to his companions is gone and there is only the assurance of the grave when he speaks to Payday. "I have no need of an axe. My price will come as a favor, from you, to be named at a later date." His voice is as crisp as the edge of the Grim Reaper's scythe. An image that is easily conjured up with Damian standing before him.

"Are we going to split the axe?" Marianna whispered quietly to the half-orc friend

Payday looked at Damian seriously. that's not an option. no favors. ya want the axe fine...weather to use or sell, I care not. it was all I could do convince the boss for this. he'd just as well not care about the beast. so it's nonnegotiable axe for beasts body ...or at least his pelt. or nothing.

The negotiations were not going well.

The druid would get what she wanted but the others seemed uninterested in the payment. Larannia also had no interest in the axe. If it wasn't for the wood dust, she would have most likely smelled it from where she stood. The creature attacking the loggers seemed to be a simple matter. Most likely the workers were chopping wood too close to the creature's den and was just protecting its young. As a druid herself, it was her responsibility to check into the matter anyway. Where there no other druids nearby? If so, why were they not doing anything about it? I disturbing thought then crossed her mind. What if not dealing with the creature was on purpose?

Putting that thought away, she decided to talk about something the Overboss understood.

"You are a businessman. Your world revolves around coin and time cost coin. We are heading out now. How long are you going to wait for the next set of adventures to go where you want? How much coin are you willing to lose? I will look into this matter, but my chances of success will increase with the others at my side. Think of it as an investment for the continuation of the business. Offer some coins from your own purse. Kreed might actually congratulate you for your ingenuity to make sure the job gets done. Or wait till he starts blaming you for the loss of profits."

The Druid of Storms sly smile indicated she liked that idea.

"As for proof. You managed to find out about us even though we tried to be subtle. I am sure you would get the information your loggers were no longer being attacked even before we returned. But, if violence has to be used to solve the problem, we will return with the creature's head in a sack, and you will be able to mount it on a wall."

That thought disgusted her, but she knew it would play into his ego.

"The choice is yours. Be the one that saved the business by using your own coin to make sure the job succeeds or be the one responsible not stopping the loss of profits."

Sophia whispers back to Marianna, ugh"While I CAN use an axe, it's not really my favourite weapon. But if you can use it, we could let you use it until you've done a favour for each of us, then it would become yours."
But aloud she said, "Sir, the favour would not be from your boss, but from you, and it would be favours for each of us, including an introduction to Creed for our dear Druid. It wouldn't be onerous but it would be a binding covenant."

Durrak had observed quietly, gathering the information that presented itself.  As they spoke, he moved closer to the one holding the axe.  Without getting within arms reach, he studied the weapon carefully.  His hands resting where they had been, at his belt."Where ish the body of this "adventurer"?". He asks, his deep voice firm, and inquisitive.  He betrayed nothing of what he had heard the others discuss about the axe.  That was a matter for latter.

This is the first notice of Paydays demeanor changing. A hint of fear then it was gone. naw you don't take any initiative if your with the consortium. their arm is long reaching and the boss, as their Gavel...his word is final. no favors. axe or nuttin.

Sophia smiles, she tries to do so without showing her tusks but that would be difficult would it not?  "Tell me citizen. What would your master do to you should the answer to your churlish ultimatum be no because of a lack of initiative on your part?  Especially when it was you who would pay the price demanded, not your boss nor the Consortium?"

Seeing the fear in Payden's eyes confirmed her suspicion. It was not that the Overboss did not want to offer coins as a reward, it was the fact that he was ordered not to. Payden was not an evil man, he was just very dedicated to coin and was trapped by his master. It was not by chance they had received this summons. It had only happened with the sudden change of plan for the river route. This was a delaying tactic. It was for Kreed to get his people on the boat or set up an ambush further up the river.

But this meeting was a treasure trove of information. Payden had said he had been asking for a chance to deal with the creature but was ignored. That meant there was a rift between the Overboss and the Gavel. That could be used for advantage later. It also hinted that Kreed was making his own plans without Payden's knowledge.

Her features softened towards the poor man.

Larannia slowly raised her right hand, signaling the others to stop. At this point, they were just trying to wrangle blood out of a stone. The druid then bowed deeply to the Overboss. "I understand." she said, hoping the man caught her meaning. "I...will do what I can."

With that said, the wood elf turned on her heel and proceeded to walk towards the dock.

There was a boat to catch.

Sophia glances at Larannia and stopped short. "Please ignore my last question, the axe will be fine. Do have a nice day."

With that she follows on after Larannia.

"I ashked you a queshtion Payden.". Durrak repeats, his deep voice firm as he moves to keep Payden and his cronies infront of him.  Where ish the body o' thish adventurer.?".
This message was last edited by the player at 14:25, Tue 23 May 2023.

Helican wasn't a fan of how absolutely resolute Larannia was, Durrak was still conversing with Payden and she had began walking away. This wasn't the first time that she had simply walked away either he recollected. Was that a tactic of the elves maybe?

'Hmmm, maybe I shouldn't judge her if it's cultural, but will she come back if things escalate here with Master Durrak pushing.' Helican thought to himself as he kept his eyes on Payden and his men to try and limit their ability to flank him without notice.

---

OOC: Any way I can get a check to see whether things are going to escalate to a fight here?

The druid stopped in her tracks when she heard the dangerous tone in Durrak's voice. But did not look back, only staring straight ahead. She thought the dwarf was the smart one. Larannia had her own theory about the axe but wanted to talk about it with the others later. Could it be the same axe they were looking for? The only hint they got was it glittered, but any metal would glitter if the light hit it properly. She had done her best to ignore the axe as not to bring attention to it. The wood elf did not want to let Payden know it might be important. Maybe his blood was running hot because the dead adventurer was most likely another dwarf.

This was a fight Durrak could not win. Even if he was able to take down a few, more protectors would show up and he would be overwhelmed. Also, a fight would play into Kreed's hands. There would be no need to stop the group if they were all imprisoned. This was another reason she wanted to leave last night. Larannia also knew she would not take part in any fight. The druid's path was clear. She would sacrifice one life to be able to stop the death and destruction a dragon would cause.

Still looking straight ahead, she waited on what path the dwarf would take.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:43, Tue 23 May 2023.

It was clear that Damian wasn't going to get anywhere with Payden at this point. But he also saw the potential conflict about to happen from Durrak. He let the discussion drop and reached out with the arcane senses that he had inherited to find the components he might need to call upon if this went sideways.

Payden turned to address the dwarf, the slight moment of fear over and a dangerous look came over his face. you think to challenge me dwarf? he put a meaty hand up with seriously calloused knuckles and cracked them with the other hand smiling and in a very low voice continued. I do not know where his body is..or was. maybe feeding the forest denizens. my men came across the axe and brought it here . and what do you have to say to that?

Sophia stands beside Larannia but unlike the elf, she turned around all the better to concentrate on Payden, considering his weaknesses and where she would attack should it prove necessary.  Indeed it is entirely possible that she is estimating an order of battle should the proverbial fan become befouled.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:21, Wed 24 May 2023.

"You have anshwered my queshtion.". He says, neither tone, nor posture changing.  "You're welcome ta try, if you want shome sleep.  If not, we have a beasht to kill.". He continues, his deep voice firm and serious.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

15:10, Today: Durrak of Clan Fellaxe. rolled 1 using 1d20-1 with rolls of 2.  Intimidation.

*L*. It was a long shot.  At least I didn't roll a one.

---

This message was last edited by the player at 20:13, Tue 23 May 2023.

Helican stayed put, he wasn't sure if Durrak recognized the axe as he did, nor did he want to give any more information to Payden about it's possible historical significance. He would definitely inquire with Durrak once they were far enough away about it, assuming they didn't die in the next few moments.

Men and their egos.

The dwarf was just antagonizing the Overboss. Could he now be arrested for threating a public official? Did he not understand the group already had a target on their back? There would be too many questions if someone died in town, but Durrak had given Kreed and his men the perfect opportunity to deal with the group now. There would be no need for an accident to happen in the wild.

Larannia kept looking straight ahead, face expressionless. It all now depended on how Payden wanted to deal with the situation.

Men and their egos.

hahaha. you've got pluck dwarf. when you're done being cold at night if ya want a job come see me, I could use someone with your daring and the Consortium pays well that last eliciting looks among the lumberjacks nearby that says the opposite...but not from the few guards who simply nodded.

   "We will shee.". Durrak says, his deep voice keeping holding a business like tone.  The more dangerous undercurrents absent, for the moment.  "Mutually lucrative arramentsh could be made either way.". He finishes, the statement leaving potential open for possible future employment.

   Then he turns, still alert, expecting an attack, and walks towards the dock.  "We are washtin' time here.  We've a boat ta board, and a creatire ta hunt.". He says to the group, as he walks.

   "He'sh a liar, and a shtrong man.  He'sh got balls when he thinksh he hash the advantage, not sho much when he doeshn't.  We'll aquire the axsh firsht, then we'll shee if he needsh ta anshwer more queshtions."  He thinks to himself.

Sophia turns away and nods to Larannia.  "I guess the sooner we set off the better" she says quietly, "Before a dispute begins that we can't help with."

It was settled. Without a word, Larannia continued her walk to the Dock.

The walk to the dock takes a short time and the group passes the square watching the low market come alive with stalls of craftsmen and farmers selling their wares past the several story tower that a few of them know houses Savram Vade, a reclusive wizard of I'll repute.

Then before then is the ferry dock to the right and several fishing boats to the left tied up at the dock and 1 keel boat also tied up. To the left, pulled up on shore are several smaller 2-3 person boats. ...

As they neared the dock Helican strolled up beside Durrak, "Do you know the history of that axe? Does it belong to your clan?" he said in a hushed tone.

Sophia watches the boats. "Looks like we'll be taking the ferry", she suggests and points to the keelboat.  "That's the biggest but there'd only be room for four of us I think, unless some of us want to help row."

Larannia slowly walked to the keel boat. Her sharp sky-blue eyes slowly traveled along its length, taking in every small detail. She then raised a left hand and placed her palm against the vessel's hull. The druid then closed her eyes as she slowly moved the opened hand along the boat's side. What was the side made of? Could she feel any gouges and imperfections?

The story the Elder told many times flashed briefly in her mind. Ships that would fly among the clouds, between the stars, and to fantastic worlds. How she wished such tales were true. It would make their traveling easier, but it was not meant to be. The harsh reality of their path was going to be a hard one.

Reluctantly, the wood elf lowered her hand, opened her eyes and turned to the others.

"This one will do. Now we need to find the owner."

OOC: Time for work DM. :)

Perception +5 (important details of boat?)
Knowlege Nature +5 (if the hull is wood)

Larrania begins moving along side the keelboat checking the craftsmanship of the strong oak sides. It's a fairly well crated boat it seems like easily overkill for a party of 6...looking like it could carry three times that. The larger rowboats look more suited for the party ...but it would be a safer ride no doubt.



Looking for the owner doesn't take long as he walks up and coughs before speaking.aye can I ask ya what ya want with the Della? I'm her Captain.

Damian clears his throat from behind the Captain. "We are interested in hiring your boat. I imagine you wouldn't want to part with her to strangers so I expect you would want some extra to come along.
We are headed a couple days upriver. Would you be open to taking us up and back?" He says with as much charm as he can.

Larannia quirked an eyebrow at Damian's up and back comment. In all likelihood, the group would not have enough coin for even a one-way trip on the vessel. She still had a few nasty gold coins from the tribe, and some left over from buying the extra supplies. Unless The Hidden One could use his slithery soft snake voice, the group might be forced to use two row boats. The thought of splitting up on the two smaller boats did not appeal to her. But they had to at least try.

"I will also heal any wounds of your crew and have some knowledge of medicine. Tomorrow morning, I can ask Gozreh for a blessing to put some wind in your sail."

The young druid knew it was not much, but the row boats had many risks on an already dangerous journey.

upriver huh? you hunting werewolves? the only thing a couple days upriver is The Wolfrun Hills. If that's your plan it'll cost you double. Lotta risk hunting werewolves. They can swim out to my boat you know.
 

The young druid shook her head in disappointment. The man was just a greedy coward and making excuses. If the captain did not want to do the job, he should have just said so. This was not a person Larannia would trust. Turning away in disgust, it was then she noticed a slightly bigger rowboat that would fit the entire group.

The wood elf pointed at the new find.

"How much coin will be needed to use that?"

The Captain of the Keelboat glanced at the  3 larger fishing rowboats and said well ones owned by Thomas and his family. ones by Duane Redroof, and the third by the sisters grace, hope and faith. all are fishers. I think they should be a long soon to get their boats out.

He chuckles warmly as the sun heats up his cloak. "No, no intention of hunting lycanthropes. Couldn't afford the silver weapons. Just a little exploration instead. We're headed up towards Droskar's Crag actually. What would it run us to hire you for that?" He asks in a friendly manner.

oh that's completely different. you musta been confused. that's downriver. For the lot of you? 2 gold 3 silver. 1 meal a day on me. You can sleep on boat or on shore for a one way trip. If I'm waiting 1 silver a day to wait. Maximum days 5. Then return trip the same 2 gold 3 silver. The journey there upfront. The waiting time upfront. Return journey before we leave from there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:14, Tue 30 May 2023.

It seemed The Hidden One's annoying snake tongue had managed to smooth things over. For some strange reason it annoyed the young druid but as long as they were able to travel this path, she would come to terms with it. Sacrifices will have to be made to stop The Day of Fire and Woe.

Larannia gave Damian a quick nod begrudgingly. She then reached for the extra sack attached to her backpack and opened it to pull out the extra gold and silver coins from the shopping trip. The wood elf then reached for the coin pouch on her belt, opened it wide to make sure the Captain could see the other coins for the return trip was already there, and took out the remaining silver coins for him to wait the maximum five days. The annoyed elf extended her hand, palm up and filled with the payment needed, towards the Captain.

So much metal in her hand was making the druid's hand itch severely. It was almost as annoying as the smell, so she hoped the Captain would take the payment promptly. Instead, Larannia pinned the Captain with her sky-blue eyes filled with the intensity of one on a mission from a God.

"When will you be ready to set sail?"

OOC:

That leaves 5 copper left from the shopping trip. Using the character's personal silver to pay for the rest of the "wait time". Will update character sheet.

The Captain took the coins from Larrania's hand and said I can be ready within the hour. let me get my two crew members. please feel good to move aboard and stow your gear. it's not a large ship but it is sturdy and sound.

Everyone had a good look at the keelboat now seeing it was roughly 40' long and 15' wide. It was obvious there was a lower deck as well as a forecastle and stern, though they were only about 3' above the main deck which only had a center area, though there was a table and three chairs around it. This was not an ocean going vessel after all. Above the center area was an upper deck, having better visibility and upon it the wheel to turn the rudder.


ooc. let's get roll20 finalized. who hasn't gone there yet? I see 5 names so there's someone who hasn't. I've identified 3 of you and the characters you play for certain...Helican, Larrania, and Damian...I think I figured out who Durrack is. I'm unsure about the 5th whether it's Mariana or Sophia.

Once the coins changed hands, the wood elf wiped the palm of her hand against her leg. Would she ever get used to the feel of metal? It just felt wrong and smelled horrible. The Elder had said some cultures used different kinds of gems as currency. Why couldn't the path take her to one of those places? This was just the start of the journey so it could still happen. Maybe that was just wishful thinking.

Larannia boarded the boat.

She could not wait to officially leave the town. Ever since first arriving, the young druid felt like a caged animal. There were too many people, too many different strange smells, and too much noise. She felt everything was a threat and the man-made buildings were constricting her soul. Would the druid ever get used to that? Was all this another trial for her to overcome? Was being in the town the source of the odd dreams she half remembered? It had to be because they made little sense.

It was instinct.

The young druid detached the wooden oak shield from her backpack and kept it at the low ready. Larannia shook her head slightly at the movement. It made no sense. But feeling the vibrations through the shield and hearing the loud impact seemed very distinct. But one tended to listen to instinct in order to survive the dangers of the forest. Kreed would be stupid to attack now. He would wait till they were out of sight of the town or wait till the boat's first stop. Wouldn't he?

Another thought occurred to her.

Was the meeting with the Overboss even the first shadow? With the distraction, would there be even more? Larannia felt they were never supposed to return. Kreed might even let them take care of the beast but ambush them on the way back. He knew what the axe might symbolize. A threat to his power. All they could do was survive against all the odds.

Could they do it?

The young druid now actually thought about the group. A real leader would have talked to everyone and found what they were good at and how they fought. If something started now, there would be no teamwork, and everyone would be fighting on their own. That was a guaranteed death for any hunting party. That problem had to be solved sooner than later.

Larannia turned back towards the group boarding the boat and actually looked at them with her sky-blue eyes.

Ink Fingers. All he cared about was writing in his damn book. Even standing still, his body constantly moved slightly. It was like he was ready to run at a moment's notice. Like a rabbit ready to flee from any danger of the forest. The human would definitely be useless in a fight.

Marianna the Tiefling. She seemed to have a kindhearted soul. Too kind for the horrors of fighting for one's life. The tiefling also lacked confidence in herself. Did she use the magic of her heritage? Seeing no real weapons or armor, that had to be the case. According to her vision, she was very important and had to be protected at all costs.

The dwarf. Like the others of his race, he was built solid. The way he moved seemed deliberate and focused. But he was quiet. Durrak would have to learn to communicate effectively with the group. He seemed a reliable sort in any confrontation. The dwarf would also have to learn not to aggravate the opponent when he had a numeral advantage.

The half-orc. She was tall, looked strong, and intimidating like others of her race. But she talked too much. Did she expect to talk the foes to death? Sophia was the newest of the group so not much was known. The powdered wig also looked ridiculous, but the club looked like it could deal some damage.

The Hidden One. Everything about him felt wrong. Her instincts screamed to zap him, repeatedly. He constantly kept his features hidden with black robes, cowl and gloves. The way he spoke reminded her of a snake and the strong smell of death intensified her feelings. Seeing no weapons or armor, he had to be using some type of dark magic. She vaguely remembered a human vouching for The Dark One. But anyone invading her mind with no warning was someone never to be trusted. Everything about him yelled evil. He had talked about being owed a favor from Payden when the job was complete. In many of The Elder's stories, it was always the villains who asked for dark favors. The only thing she was sure of, if The Black One ever summoned the undead, his life would be forfeit.

Larrania placed a hand on her forehead and started to massage her temples.

They were all doomed.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:40, Thu 01 June 2023.

Durrak had heard Helican's words, but remained silent.  What he knew, or suspected, he kept to himself.  Now was not the time for speculation, not with others around.  As he boarded the boat, his dark eyes locked with those of Larannia.  They did not break away till she looked at the next person.  Once past, he positioned himself roughly in the center of the boat, his pack still on his shoulder, and waited.

"Thish lot'll get themshelvesh killed if they're na more careful.". He thinks to himself.

Helican didn't pursue Durrak any more at this time, though he hoped the Dwarf would open up about what he knew along the way, or at least some day. He did once again catch Larannia staring at him, her gaze made him nervous, but he wasn't sure why.

He climbed onto the boat with the others and found a seat, securing his pack beneath the bench, he made sure to lay his crossbow within easy grabbing distance should he need it. All the tension from earlier, the mention of Werewolves, and the general danger inherit in this quest made him more acutely aware that he might actually have to use it. It had been fired, at training dummies at the university, logs, but never at another living soul. Then again, what they faced out here may have no soul at all, just teeth, gnashing teeth that would want to end his life.

"I have to write that down..." he accidentally muttered aloud as he pulled his book once more into his hands and began penning his internal thoughts on the matter.

As the others board he takes the group in as a whole. "So one and all, we appear to have a few moments of time on our hands before our guide returns. Shall we put it to good use? Perhaps a bit of planning for our future? We are no doubt going to be coming into some sort of conflict more than likely violent conflict at that. It would be best if we could work as something at least resembling a team. To do that we could all use to know a little more about each others strengths in or out of a hostile situation. I'll go first so it is clear I'm not hiding anything other than scars." He says with an honest chuckle.
"I am an innate caster. My bloodline gives me a bit of control over the boundaries of life and death. This has served me well in the past as a Healer and I hope that it will continue to do so for many years in the future, Nethys willing. Unfortunately it doesn't give me much in the way of immediately helpful combat abilities. But I am happy to restore you to your natural vim and vigor if you should be wounded!" He says in a pleased manner.

"Who would like to share next to help us form a cohesive unit?" He leaves the question open to any of his companions.

Helican looked up from his pen and paper as Damian spoke, scars, a healer, he jotted those down in the margin of his notebook, this would be good information to have indeed.

"I'll go next..." he said closing his book around his pen. "I am quick, of mind, and body. I am a fair to good shot with my crossbow. I know traps, how to lay them, how to find them, how to stop them from killing you. I am well read on many different subjects, so that should come in handy, maybe not in a violent situation, but it's helped before. I think my best place would be on the forward line as a scout, and then in combat as a backline archer. Though I admit, I have never test myself against another living soul..." Helican paused and looked down at his crossbow, "...It's important to know weaknesses as well I think"

The young druid still felt uneasy. Her body was tense as she scanned the surroundings. They were alone, surrounded on three sides with water, and not much cover. This would be a perfect place for an ambush. Was she overreacting and still feeling the effects of being in town? The wood elf's instincts told her to raise the oak shield a little higher. She did so.

On heightened alert, she still managed to listen to the others. Larannia was not surprised The Hidden One wanted to know about the others and their capabilities. His snake-like tone making the others talk about themselves. He was smart but still creepy. Knowing that he could heal would help her concentrate on more versatile and offensive blessings.

When it was the wood elf's turn to speak, it sounded like she was doing so while busy with something else. Scanning for any dangers.

"I am a Druid of Storms. My main weapons are wind and lightning."

To prove her point, a small arc of white and blue lightning started at the fingertips of her right hand but instantly grew bigger and longer as the bolt snaked up the arm before stopping at her shoulder. The smell of ozone was strong, and the sizzling-pop sounded loud in the quiet.

"I am a trained herbalist and can treat wounds using the bounty of nature itself. Thanks to Gozreh, today I can heal magically, stabilize the dying, detect magic, create dancing lights, always know where north is, and create drinkable water. My weakness...."

She turned her head slightly so one sky-blue eye fell on the others.

"...I have a hard time speaking to others well."

OOC:

Scanning for any possible dangers.

Perception: +5
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Thu 01 June 2023.

Sophie nods and smiles encouragingly at Larannia.  She takes off her wig to reveal a head shaven but for a tuft of green hair along the centre of her skull.  "I am a lawyer, but we're not in a courtroom now so I'll take this off.  I also talk a lot usually because when I don't, people underestimate me because an orc like me could not possibly be a brain, could she?  Where we're going, that could be an advantage though.  So can the fact that I am highly skilled at assessing a situation and devising strategies.  In particular, I'm something of a takedown expert, so there's that.  I'm not an expert fighter or archer, but I'm okay with crossbow, light weapons and clubs."

"I'm kind of like him" Marianna points to Damian "except...weird. Like, you would think my magic was all hellfire and evil, but it's not. I can cast healing spells and stuff like that. I'm also pretty good with medicine. Short on that, I've got a trusty cast iron..." She smiled meekly, hoping someone would find that humorous, or at least endearing.

"Why would we think it would be hellfi... oh because of the red skin and horns? I am truly sorry that you must get that sort of treatment a lot in your life. I hope that you will not get that among our band. In fact if there are those among us who are so eager to pass judgement on others that we would do so by the simple virtue of who our parents, or grandparents might have been. I think it would be best if you step out of the boat now. I will not waste a healing spell on the likes of those. We're not in Cheliax after all." He steps to the side to make it clear that he isn't joking about not wanting to travel with racists.

Sophia steps up and asks Marianne whether she minds being hugged and if she agrees, hugs her. "I too am sorry that you experience such ignorant behaviour. I stand with you and with him."

EDIT 15:26 UTC 02/06/23 - adding quote mark and changing colour of speech
This message was last edited by the player at 14:27, Fri 02 June 2023.

It felt like the captain was taking too long to get his crew.

Larannia started to slowly pace back and forth, sharp eyes continuing to look for any threats. The others had lowered their guard except for the dwarf. It looked like the two of them were going to be responsible keeping the others safe. The Elder had warned her of the world outside the tribe. All the races were hated one way or another by some but the tieflings especially had it hard. She was told people's actions revel their true nature. When the druid was a child, she would have nightmares about humans hunting her down to cut off her ears.

Then the visions of fire and destruction came.

The wood elf knew where her path was going, and no elf hater was going to stop her.

Just then the Captain walked up the plank going into the boat and his two crew members begin to cast off lines and came up removing the plank and used long poles to push the keelboat away from the dock. Watching them work was almost like watching art, as they moved into the current of the River Foam and unfurled the sail moving downriver passing the Courtyard as they went.  It was not long before they put Falcons Hollow behind them.

Being underway felt familiar, having just been on a boat not long ago. He finished penning his current thought as the others finished up giving a synopsis of themselves, and then stuffed the journal away so as to not get it wet. He watched with curious eyes the sailors worked the ropes and rigging, how the captain guided the rudder, he watched with the interest to learn and his keen mind began to commit things to memory as he worked out the mechanisms.

Marianna wasn't anticipating a hug, not from this bunch. Still, it was a welcome change, and something she hadn't received in a long time, and could no longer reliably predict when the next one would be. Her hug was tepid, at least compared to Sophia

"Gods, this lady is strong" she thought to herself.

As the ship took sail, she took refuge sitting on a barrel on the port side. Looking at the water below, Marianna hoped to see fish or larger creatures swimming along the way.

Durrak had listened carefully to what each of the others had said, his eyes meeting theirs firmly but not aggressively as they spoke.  His own thoughts he had kept to himself.  He had told them enough before, rephrasing what they already knew would be a waste of both his breath, and his time.  That was, however, avoided by the timely arrival of the captain and his crew.  He'd speak speak to the elf later.  She was chaotic, but at least she was warry.  And she'd had a point about the boat having nowhere to go.  River piracy was not unheard of, and neither was treachery.  He would have rather taken the trails.  He could provide for them there, and have numerous alternate routes available.  These folks would need it, having never left their cities.

The druidess had quietly turned away as the others conducted their hug fest. The laughing and crying had reminded her of the tribe. It was most likely she would never see them again. The path that was seen almost confirmed it. Let the children enjoy their innocents a little longer. The Hunt will either force them to grow up and adapt or they will die. Such was the law of nature.

As Larrannia made her way to the forecastle, she glanced at the captain and the two crew. They looked very proficient at their job, but could they be trusted? One or all of them could be working for Kreed. That thought alone made the elf keep the oak shield at the low ready. Not much could be done about it now.

The forecastle gave the wood elf a better view of the surroundings around the boat. She stood silently, sharp eyes keeping watch. Larannia hated this path. The overland path played better to the group's strengths and gave them flexibility of movement. But one did not simply ignore a warning from Gozreh. Also, Kreed had a stronger hold on the land surrounding the town.

Finally leaving the town was a good thing. She could feel the stress and anxiety melt away as the town got further and further away. Just being there greatly bothered her, effecting the mind and causing paranoia. She started to feel like her normal self. This was something else the young druidess would have to battle to complete The Trial.

But with nothing but time on her hands, the elf's mind started to wonder.

All Larannia knew was that she was born during a storm, making her Storm Born. It was said that Gozreh was observing the birth personally. The elf gave a hint of a smile and shook her head sadly. That was told to children to make them think they were special. Even worse, she actually believed it for a time. Mortals chose their path in life and the gods just used them along the way.

The elf's frown deepened.

She had asked about her parents but only got a sad smile and was told to talk to the Elder. He gave that same damnable sad smile before telling his lies. Her parents had to go back to their own world on a flying ship. But they would return to pick up their only child and take her with them to a new world.

Arcs of lightning started to appear around the druidess's clinched fist.

Why the lies? That was when she started hating the tales of flying ships. Why perverse an entertaining story to facilitate a lie. It was most likely her parents were killed when the tribe was attacked, or they were banished from the tribe for some reason. But none of that mattered now.

Tear filled stormy gray eyes pierced the area upriver.

At the end of her path was a dragon and most likely her death.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:47, Sat 03 June 2023.

The day started out stressful but quickly turned very relaxing. Sailing along in the center of the 90' wide river. A slight breeze helped the current a long. Off to the sides the rolling hills with dotted trees and bushes hid signs of wildlife. Birds flew or sang nearby. The occasional deer raised it's hid from drinking and watched the boat with wariness. It was warming and looked to be a pleasant day.


About 3 hours into the journey a small rowboat could be seen ahead in the river with an elderly man holding a fishing pole that was bent down having hooked something straining against being caught. As the kerlboat approached the man was totally focused on bringing his catch in, not paying attention to the keel boat.

The keelboat could sail right on by, as the rowboat was about 30' from the north shoreline. The man wore white cotton pants and tunic and a straw hat. His graying beard hung down touching his chest as his aged body bent and strained fighting the fish.

"It looks like the old timer has hooked a meal for five" Helican said regarding the man in the rowboat.

The hours of peace and tranquility had calmed down the druidess. The beautiful surroundings and comforting breeze seemed like a gift from Gozra. She watched the old man with his struggle to capture a fish. All life was a struggle. The old man fought for a meal while the fish fought to escape and stay alive. The natural order of life playing out.

Larannia knew this feeling would not last, but the elf was going to enjoying it while she could.

"Aye.  And good luck ta him.". Durrak rumbled from his seat in the middle of the boat.  Though he seemed relaxed, smoking his pipe and munching on some meat and cheese, which he washed down with the skin of porter he had brought from the inn, he was alert to every movement around him, and the scenery they passed by and gloated over.  He seemed content enough, in a gruff, laconic way.

Sophia regarded the river itself as a case and she watched the river and its ways, taking note of everything almost as if the River were a suspect under interrogation.  She takes note of everything she sees, whether the landmarks that remain still or the creatures and detritus carried by the current.  She seems fascinated.

"Wow" She said to nobody in particular, seeing the large fish being extracted from the sea. She'd cooked fish before, but nothing in the markets approached anything near that size.

"Benefit of living on the frontier I guess" She continued, looking around. The land was beautiful, and pieces were slowly clicking together. If most people weren't going to accept Marianna because of her demonic heritage, than there was no reason she had to say and live with most people. If she could figure out a way to subsist out here, she'd be okay with the relative solitude, she reckoned.

With the natural beauty of the area lulling everyone he spies a little outcropping of land into the river. "That looks like a fine place to build a home. Away from the activity of the town and your closest neighbor a multi hour ride away. Position the house just so," He gestures an angle. "that you can watch the orchard from the kitchen and watch the sunset from the porch, all while listening to the crickets. What say you Druid? Do you see plenty of plants for foraging so that I could bring my family here and live in harmony with the land?" Seeing the bent rod of the of the old man he chuckles. "Looks like there's fish if there aren't any berries."

"Aye lassh.". He says in response to Marianna, as he finishes a swallow of his porter.  The Wildernessh ish ash beautiful ash it ish dangeroush.  There'sh a reashon why mosht folksh shtay near the townsh.". His deep voice pauses for a moment to let that sink in.  Then he continues.  But, if your shmart and hardy enough, ya can make a life fer yerself amidsht the untamed beauty."

The keelboat sailed past the elder man as he finally wrestled the 3 foot trout into the boat. A few more hours of sailing through this idyllic landscape was pleasant and calming. As the sun began to set, the Captain chose a place closer to the bank to drop anchors to hold the boat in place. He remarked to the passengers.

you can go ashore and have a fire if you want to be warm. the nights do get cold. Or you can sleep on the boat. If you do, I expect you to help with watches.

Larannia casually glanced in the direction The Hidden One spoke of. At that instant, the peaceful outcropping of land was a blazing inferno that was billowing black smoke into the nightmarish red sky. The druidess winced in pain and turned away as she placed fingers against the side of her head.

Hours later, the captain dropped the anchor. He mentioned the cold weather. The cold would not affect her since she had packed some cold weather clothes. The elf also did not fully trust the captain not to leave while the group was camped on land.

"I will help with the watch." she said with no emotion.

"I find I don't sleep well these days so I may as well help with the watches. Besides, the cold never bothered me anyway." He chuckles by way of volunteering.

"I too will happily take a turn on watch." says Sophia.  "The more we see, the more we learn."

With it looking like the group was staying aboard he the captain and his crew set about rolling out blue tarps and hoisting polls under them and raising them up to hide the ship from anything above them.
The Captain said the tarps will protect us from flying predators at a casual glance. 2 to a shift, except whose on the last watch with me and then 3 of us. Horun will take first watch with....you Damian. Helican you and Sophia take 2nd. Durrack and Philburn my crew member next. Then Larrania, Marianna and myself the dawn watch. Keep an eye peeled and no fires.

Helican looked over at Sophia and nodded affirmatively, and then looked back to the Captain, "Aye aye Captain" he said confidently.

"I'll be takin' my watch from the shore.". Durrak says, his deep voice clearly audible to the occupants of the boat.  "If ya've a mind lassh, you're welcome ta come ashore and learn how ta build a fire an set up a camp.". He says to Marianna.  Having spoken, Durrak disembarked from the boat, and began setting up his camp.  After this was done, he foraged the near forest for food and safe drink.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)

14:49, Today: Durrak of Clan Fellaxe. rolled 21 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 18.  Survival (to Subsist).

---

This message was last edited by the player at 19:50, Fri 09 June 2023.

The druidess quietly raised an eyebrow at the captain's plan. It was well thought out and made complete sense. Dawn was the perfect time for an attack and many creatures would be hunting for their next meal. The respect she held for the captain increased a little. He appeared to be very good at his job and most likely had done it many times before.

"As you say, Captain." she said stoically before heading below deck.

Sophia nodded to Hellican.  "Second watch", she said.  "I too may spend it ashore so I can wake Durrak but in the meantime..."

...and with that, she headed for a handy spot on the boat, curled up and went to sleep.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:03, Fri 09 June 2023.

Larannia Stormtree, Druid of Storms...was nude.

The boat could have held more people, but the captain had set sail with only half the ship's complement. There were plenty of empty cabins or other places to hide in. Larannia would have liked to be on land for her meditation and prayer, but Gozra's domain was both the land and water, so it mattered little. Being on the boat was also more defensible.

With eyes closed, the elf frowned.

Some of the others had decided to camp on land. Out in the open with a good chance of being surrounded. They would be the bait. Anything attacking would go for the easier prey. In doing so, the bait would keep the ship from being damaged. It was a cold thing to think about, but the world was a cruel place. You either adapted or died. But this also showed another problem.

The group had no leader.

There was no one to tell the group they should stay together for protection. There was nobody to make the final decision. There were two main objectives. Searching the ruins where a dwarf with a glittering axe was going or deal with a creature that were killing the loggers. Five days would not be enough time to do both. Also, some of the group have never traveled in the forest so the going would already to be slow. To make sure they would arrive back at the boat in time, they would only have a day and a half of travel before dealing with the mission and then another day or so to get back.

The young druid started to expect she had wasted the five silvers.

Who could fill the leadership role? Marianna lacked the confidence, the dwarf was quiet and mainly kept to himself, the human mainly cared for only writing in a book, and the half orc talked too much and too long. The Hidden One had a voice that could sell a bow to an elf, but his body odor would repel most civilized people. He also made sure not to show his face. Not many would follow anyone who did not even place trust in others and show their true selves.

Then it came to herself.

Larannia envied The Dark One and his snakelike soothing speech. The young druidess also did not think about her actions and mainly went on instinct. She was The Messager of Gozra but did not have the talent of speaking.

The world also had its cruel jokes.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:52, Fri 09 June 2023.

Marianna had intended to stay on the boat. The members of the crew, and Larannia, retiring to crew quarters or solitude left her largely alone. As much as the young woman was nervous around new people, being largely left alone on the weather deck seemed worse, so she trailed off to join the others by the fire.

Durrack, Marianna and Sophia rowed the small boat to shore and set up camp while the crew finished setting the boat for the night as dusk came The crew member Horun and Damian took watch.

Durrack went hunting and found a herd of deer nearby and brought down a buck  that would add to the provisions. He butchered it and cooked up a haunch of it with some potatoes and radishes he found . He, Mariana and Sophia ate well.

A few hours after dark Helican took watch on the Keelboat while Sophia took watch ashore. The watch was uneventful. Then Helican woke up the crew member and Sophia woke up Durrack as the moon was at its highest point in the sky and they went to sleep. Maybe an hour into Durrack watch he was warming himself by the fire and watching the area with his vision showing body heat of his comrades and a few of the deer who had come down to the river to drink in the night.


Suddenly a shadow of a winged creature fell over the river and Durrack looked up just ashe heard the crew member shout from the boat Wyvern. douse your fire!!!

Having prepared for the need to quickly douse a fire, even if he wasn't expecting a wyvern, Durrak quickly covered the fire, putting it out and smothering the coals.  As he did, he slung his shield onto his arm and drew his axe.  He positioned himself to cover those sleeping ashore, as he prodded first one, then the other with his foot to wake them.

Following the light until the flame was doused the Wyvern had started it's descent. The smoke from the extinguished flames bothered his eyes and the beast shook it's head hesitating to get it's bearings until he saw the deer staring up at him and then bounding away quickly. He gave chase. Plummeting down to grab two dear in his two claws a few wing beats later he was airborne and flying back towards the forest from where it came looking for prey.

Long tense minutes as Mariana and Sophia say up staring towards the treeline not seeing what Durrack saw. Soon the group on the beach relaxed.

A different sounding shout joined the symphony of the others, as the nightmare was always the same. The chorus of pain and suffering was now very familiar. There was the human woman, with long dark hair, running with a small girl in her arms. The child's hair was blond and tied into a ponytail. A pink ribbon. Both of their eyes were wide in fear as the woman tried to run from fiery buildings billowing black smoke. The woman screamed as a crumbling building fell on them.

There was the dwarf, with spiky red hair, using his strong arms to lift the side of a cart that had turned over. An elderly human with a puffy beard had his leg trapped underneath. Surrounding them were three young women in blue robes pleading the dwarf to help their father. All screamed in agony as a sheet of flame engulfed them all.

Larannia opened her eyes.

The odd shout did not continue. Everything seemed quiet and normal. After her communion, the elf had redressed and donned the hide armor. It was not comfortable sleeping in armor, but it was prudent to do so when traveling in dangerous areas. The young druidess turned her head slightly to the see the oak shield leaning against a crate. If anything happened, all she had to do was grab it before going top side.

With no other sounds from outside or not hearing the heavy foot falls of someone coming to wake her, Larannia closed her eyes once again.

Sophia said nothing after she was woken, merely gazing around her into darkness, listening into the silence of night birds and small animals clearly silenced by the wyvern's approach.  She breathed in the scent of the land and of the river and overall, she took the place in which she found herself as she learned this part of the land as long ago, she had learned the back of her hand as an aid to mathematics, and to the measuring of the world.

It was not a place she knew, but nevertheless, she considered whether anything, save the silence of the animals was in any way, odd... whether there was anything she had overlooked that might come back to bite her, literally or figuratively.

Morning came and soon the group was together and moving downriver again. The scenery stayed the same all morning; rolling hills with occasional copses of trees. Wildlife was plentiful. Deer, wild pigs, the occasional fox. Racoons staring back from trees
 Woodpeckers trying to reach bugs in the trees. A hawk on the hunt in the sky. An abundance of birds even a fisher diving into the water after a trout. The weather was perfect for travelling warming but not too hot, with a slight breeze. Hardly a sign of habitation.

Nothing hostile or surprising occurred.

In the afternoon the forest could be seen on the north bank, while the south bank was still rolling hills. Now occasionally a wolf could be seen. As dusk started to fall The Captain said earnestly. we will stop for the night just shy of the forest. I highly suggest NOONE go to shore tonight. this area is far more dangerous and wolf attacks more likely to occur.

"What if that wyvern comes around again? We don't exactly blend in out here."

In reply to Marianna Cross (msg # 286):

"Without the fire to attract it, Wyvern's will look for easier prey than people. We bipeds have an annoying habit of defending ourselves instead of running." He says with a laugh to Marianna. "I imagine you would fill a Wyvern with some nasty magics that deer and pigs do not contain." He says as he spreads his arms across the railing, soaking up as much of the setting sunlight as he can before it dips below the horizon.

"It ish unushual for wolvesh to attack without provocashtion.". Durrak replies to the captain.  "What dangersh are there besidesh that?". The stout Dwarf scans the banks, alert to potential dangers, and looking for a good spot to set up camp.

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
06:23, Today: Durrak of Clan Fellaxe. rolled 9 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 6.  Forest Lore.

---

This message was last edited by the player at 11:24, Tue 13 June 2023.

So far, it had seemed that Gozra had blessed the group with good weather. Larrania felt calm and relaxed from the soothing scenery. She was actually showing a slight smile, a rarity for her. When not up in the forecastle, the druidess went to the others and offered the herbs bought at the herbalist in town. There was a small pouch with herbs that would help against poison, a small wooden bowl with wax at the top that held a healing poultice for wounds, and another small pouch containing Extripia. It was a root that could be chewed to help with fatigue. The others who did not want the items, she kept for herself to use as needed.

The wood elf was so relaxed from the journey, she no longer had the oak shield readied.

"The boat was plenty comfortable last night, no complaints here", Helican could complain, the sleep was not restful, but what could be expected out here in the wilds. Besides it was probably more excitement than anything that had kept him on edge.

The Captain said looking at Marianna our camouflage looks like rippling water. most aerial creatures won't look that close. then he turned to Durrack.the wolf packs here are more aggressive...then there's always the possibilities they are werewolves. besides those enemies there's humanoid hunters from Orcs, Hobgoblins, Goblins that work to feed their tribes. Kobolds are a danger I've seen a few Giants. Big Cats, The occasional Giant Lizard or Snake. ....and Bandits or Other Adventuring Parties...

Sophia said to Durrak, "I think it would be best to remain on board for future nights. I most certainly intend to do so."

For now though, she watched the shores on both sides of the boat. She moved from one side of the boat to the other with something approaching but never reaching regularity.

Still in a pleasant mood, the druidess watched the sun sink lower over the horizon. The Captain spoke sense, but would everyone follow his suggestion? The dwarf looked determined. Maybe the books she had read was correct and most dwarfs did not like the water. The Elder surmised it had to do with soil and rock. If a dwarf was not on firm land, they feel out of their element. Larannia could relate for she hated being away from the forest.

But Durrak was on his own path. If he wanted to camp alone in a dangerious area, she would not stop him. The only one on the Main Path with her was Marianna. The elf would do anything to keep her safe. The tiefling had a very important role to play.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 15:14, Fri 16 June 2023.

Letting the heat from the sinking sun soak into his bones he closed his eyes behind his veil and listened to the exchange between the captain and the Durrak. He wasn't going to try to persuade him to do something that likely wouldn't make any difference in the long run. If Durrak's determination to be on land was that strong, nothing Damian could add to the captains words would make a difference.
Besides, he would rather listen to the water lapping against the side of the boat and the dwarf breathes so loudly.

Marianna's eyes started to get wide hearing the long list of possible threats. "What did I get myself into?" She asked herself

The camouflage was unrolled and everyone set up their personal sleeping areas and began taking their assigned watches. Throughout the night they saw activity on the banks from wildlife but nothing threatened to come out into the river. The night passed and morning began with the same activities as the day before. The group watched the minimal crew pulled the anchors in and began to move down river with the forest on the north bank and the same rolling hills on the south.

Helican got up and attempted to help the crew members with their activities, if they'd allow. He didn't want to be in their way, but he'd watched them now for a couple days and he wanted to see if he understood some of what he'd seen.

Sophia joined Helican in his attempt to help the crew.  She did so wordlessly for a change because she'd noticed that they did this withouut a word and guessed that extraneous chatter would prove distracting.

It looked like it was going to be another pretty day. Larannia was thankful that everyone decided to follow the Captain's suggestion. There would be plenty of danger to get into once the group started to travel over land. But she could feel the change. It felt like the surrounding forest was darker. Something was out of balance and the cause was unknown.

The wood elf wondered if the forest ever had a Guardian. A fellow druid whose job was to look after the forested area and keep it safe and in balance. If there was one, what happened to them? If something was not done, the area would get worse. It might not matter with the deforestation from the town. With the forest gone, the land and weather would be thrown into chaos, causing more devastation. But what could she do to help the land? It has only been twenty-three years since starting on the Path of Storms. All elves who feel the calling start their training once they reach one hundred years of age. Just barely a young adult by elven standards. What could she possibly do to help heal the forest?

Larannia looked around to see the others. Ink Fingers and the half-orc were trying to help the crew. They must have started to feel bored. There was only so much sightseeing one could do before it got dull. The others were separated and alone with their thoughts. This was not how a hunting party should be. They should be talking to one another and getting to know each other. That was how you built trust. A hunting party needed trust in order to survive.

The druidess growled deep in her throat.

She knew what had to be done. It did not take long to find her prey. At least the open air lessened the stench. For a moment the elf stood there, sky blue eyes looking down on The Hidden One as he sat on the deck looking out at the scenery. Then with a heavy sigh, she sat down next to him and also looked towards the river.

"I did not appreciate you trespassing upon my mind." she said tersely. "And then you show your arrogance by not even apologizing." Larannia took a deep breath to calm down. She then turned her head to look at Damian. "But we have more important matters to discuss. We will not be able to deal with the creature, search the ruins for a dwarf and return to the ship within five days. Travel to one location will already take half that before having to walk back. Traveling will already be slow due to some not used to physical exertion. If we are going to use the town for rest and supplies, I suggest we go for the creature first. We need the good will from the leadership of the town if we are going to succeed in future hunts."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:11, Thu 22 June 2023.

   Durrak had slept poorly, the constant rocking of the boat sat I'll with him.  He drank a warm cup of chicory as he ate his breakfast.  An irritable silence sitting around his stout form.  "PAH!". He thought to himself.  "A wyvern the night before, and now nothing.  Sleeping on this berusted boat was a waste of my patience.  Who ever heard of a Dwarf staying on staying on a boat when there was good land near by.  I'll see where tonight brings us.  Might be a good spot for a camp against the river.". He took a bite of his dried breakfast sausage, chewing vigorously.  "And then there's those two, swarming over the ship, just a likely to get in the way as to help.  I've said it before.  Leave the profession to the professionals.  Others just get in the way, or add to the work."
   He gazed out over the land, as the sun cast Its' crimson glory of the green plants.  The water reflecting the light like liquid fire.  He took several.long, slow breaths of the morning air, the turned his attention to his breakfast.

Marianna watched carefully to see her new comrades. The bonds here were loose and slim. At this rate, the likelyhood of everyone sticking together after his job was over seemed minimal. Larinnia specifically wasn't helping; she seemed to be the most tense elf she's ever met, or even heard of. Whether the tielfing herself wanted to be a part of this motley crew for long was an open question in of itself. They seemed nice enough, and willing to take a rookie out on something dangerous; that had to count for something.

If this was going to fall apart, she didn't want it to be because of her. On the other hand, everyone seemed to know what to do and where they belonged, making her feel all the more out of place. Scarfing down a fistfull of food, she tried to pack up her gear as quickly as she could so as to not be a burden, and hopefully actually be of assistance to someone, if they needed it.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:04, Sat 24 June 2023.