Outside the Wild Culverwood (DM Matt) Saturday March 1st, 2003 12:19:24 AM
Everyone ready, and business taken care of, the Talons head out, continuing to hear the over-emphasized yelling and cheering of the young Bella as Edenmoor shrinks behind them.
The safest route is determined to be skirting the southern edge of the Red Hills, and enter Culverwood at the point where the hills first meet the forest. The location of the tree is almost directly north of that, according to the map about a days travel in.
The three day trek around the red hills is quite uneventful, the dangers of the area seeming to avoid the Talons all together. They reach the edge of Culverwood just before nightfall the third evening, the forest growing darker with each passing moment, almost seeming to warn the companions not to venture forth. The woods seems strangely quite, though it could just be the shift between activity cycles, the nocturnal animals just waking, the rest taking to sleep.
Camp is quickly set, entering the forest the next morning sounding like a much better plan than at night. The woods seems like it would be difficult for the horses to manuever through, though it could probably be done. After any night time discussion, watches are set, and the night passes peacefully, nothing disrupts the Talons outside of the forest.
Let me know whether you want to take the horses in or not (and whats done with them if not). Also note any special prepeartions you might take. Feel free to backpost anything that might have occured on the way. Casters, can you email me a prepared spell list, unless your sticking with one already on your character sheet.
Side Note: All character sheets are finally in, so Hero point time. Looks like the newest members of the group gets them this time. Orson, Maloray, Lian, Figment, and Bertram got the majority of the nominations. So those 5 receive 1 Hero Point.
Maloray Saturday March 1st, 2003 9:30:53 AM
OOC Thanks, all, for the Hero point :)
IC During the trek, Maloray seems strangely quiet. All the Talons notice the seeming absence of his cloth-wrapped greatsword and his bow, and the addition of a pair of leather gloves.
About the morning of the third day, he rides up beside Ingrge and rides alongside him for a few moments before speaking.
"Friend Ingrge, I have a question to ask of you. Have you ever met an elven woman of the Culverwood named Shariel?"
Maloray's tone is quiet, but not a whisper, so other Talons nearby might overhear if they're sharp-eared.
"It's a foolish question I know. I'm sure many elves have green eyes such as yours, but I am told that she had them as well."
Figment Saturday March 1st, 2003 10:18:53 AM
As the trip continues, the mage reviews his spells and makes a few changes for the new outside terrain. (List sent). "I do not want to leave Jux out here alone, I think taking the horses in is probably the best thing right now.".
Ingrge Saturday March 1st, 2003 2:28:07 PM
Traveling along with his companions, new and old, Ingrge is struck at how much he would miss these folks and yet something about Edenmoor also struck him as a place he could be comfortable settling down at. Lost in his thoughts he doesn't even realize Maloray is speaking to him until he is half through with his question. Taking a moment to reflect on what he was asked, he turns to his new companion. The name is not familiar to me, at least as far as I know. As for the green eyes, they are more common with several of the northern clans. Perhaps if you ever get the chance to make it back to the tree of parting you cand ask your question of Folbre. If he has heard the name, he will remember where and who you would need to ask furhter. Who is this Shariel? Why do you ask of her?
Maloray Saturday March 1st, 2003 10:21:22 PM
The barbarian makes a mental note of the arcane-sounding words...Folbre at the Tree of Parting...more common among the Northern Clans...
At the elf's question, Maloray's eyes unfocus as he is evidently thinking of past times.
"Shariel...she was my mother," he says softly. "My father brought me as a babe to the hunting grounds of the Owl Clan, but all my life he spoke of my mother Shariel, her beautiful dark hair and green eyes, her musical laughter and her smile that made his heart sing."
Maloray pauses as a look of pain crosses his face.
"As he died, he told me she was an elf woman of 'The Emerald Kingdom to the West'. He swore me to seek her out and tell her of his love."
Glancing up at the elf, he asks "Where is this Folbre and this tree?"
Brother Bertram Sunday March 2nd, 2003 9:15:29 PM
Bertram kept an eye out for any surprises from force of habit, but his mind was far away, considering Gargul, Domi and the Gods in general.
Lian Sunday March 2nd, 2003 10:00:00 PM
OOC: I can't remember whether Lian has his horse with him, but the post will say I do.
IC: Lian rides along behind everyone else atop Merlot, occassionally scratching his friends mane just behind the ear. He sits pondering the activities over the past few days, the raising, leaving the little village, the few friends he made in Edenmoor and continuing ahead with little comfort, onto the next mission. He thinks of the 'ish'gara' tree and its rumored properties, in awe of the possibilities. The monk remains quiet throughout the travel.
K'Nara Monday March 3rd, 2003 8:14:36 AM
(OOC: the "marching order" will depend heavily on who has a horse and who doesn't--I know K'Nara, Figment and Ingrge had horses, and from reading the above entries that Lian and Maloray have them, too. This leaves Milo, Olana and Brother Bertram unaccounted for by way of mounts...I seem to recall that Olana had been paired with Milo in a horse-drawn cart, but I can't recall whether or not they're still driving it now. I need to know if these last three PCs have mounts.)
"I have to agree with Figment...there isn't anyplace we can safely leave the horses, so we will just take them with us." the human bladesinger said firmly. "I'd like to see Olana and Milo up front, though--someone with ranger skills as well as someone with rogue capabilities scouting ahead of us would be prudent, I should think..."
Milo Monday March 3rd, 2003 10:48:40 AM
Milo smiles at K'nara, "Happy to take point as usual, though it'd be easier if Olana did so as well. She is a far better tracker."
OOC: um, I was under the impression that Olana, and Milo shared a horse, though I don't recall the last time he's been on one, so I could be wrong.
Olana d20+11=15 d20+13=27 Monday March 3rd, 2003 12:12:37 PM
((I thought we shared a horse, too.))
"If we take the horses in, we must remember that there are things in this forest that could swallow them in one bite. I would suggest that if we came across an elf tribe or village at any time, then we ask if they will take care of them while we venture further. Culverwood is magical, and so are it's predators."
She has a few misgivings about the map, too, and says so. "As a girl, when I ventured out with others of my tribe, we would sometimes come across piles of bones - after folk wandered and wandered and wandered, and got lost. They died lost. Let us make sure that is not our fate."
Olana decides to say nothing more, after all - it wasn't like they'd never been in here before. In fact some of them had traveled Culverwood a few times without mishap. It was the forest, she decided - dampening her usual pleasant frame of mind.
As they set off, she attempts to bring all her skills to bear, and whispers to Milo - "Sometimes the path ahead is not the obvious one in front of you. The deeper in we go, the more this will be true. Just something to keep in mind."
Landmark...the Tree ahead (DM Matt) Monday March 3rd, 2003 12:30:26 PM I believe Orson is the only one without a mount. Bertram has a pony, so im assuming hes riding it, to keep up. Olana and Milo are doubled up on a single horse, as taking a Cart when you know your entering the woods would be silly :)
The night passes uneventful, and the Talons prepare to enter the woods. Milo and Olana at point, the group begins it journey into the forest. The canopy overhead is quite thick, allowing little light through to th ground below, though there is enough to adaquette visibility. Olana finds no signs of humanoid movement through the area, only local wildlife.
The day progresses, the Talons making good time towards the Ish'gara tree, though no sign of the Tine's leader is found. Olana finds no signs of any elven peoples either, nor of the magical predators she spoke of earlier. Midafternoon Olana first notices the normal sounds of the forest (small animals scampering and such) have vanished, though everyone soon realizes it as well. The tree's have also thinned out some, their size is quite large, but the space between trees has opened up some, making the horses movement easier.
About 50' ahead a large natural stone pillar juts out from the ground, which is a landmark on the map. 800' beyond is where the map says the location of the Ish'gara tree is, though the visibility isn't good enough to see such distances.
Everyone give me listen and spot checks as you post your advance to the tree, as well as any rolls you might take when at the track..err..tree :)
So involved with trying to hear why there might be a lack of forest noise, Ingrge hears nothing but that silence as they ride along, but something does manage to catch his eye.
Milo d20+11=24 d20+12=18 d20+23=30 d20+21=31 Monday March 3rd, 2003 9:56:38 PM
As Milo scouts closer to where he thinks the tree is, he remains close to the ground, about thirty feet ahead of the main group. The halfling attempts to be as quiet as possible while moving normally, and alert to danger. (OOC: Spot DC 24, Listen DC 18; Hiding and Moving Silently at full speed so I imposed a -5 penalty to Milo's checks putting him at Hide DC 30, and Move Silently DC 31.)
Lian d20+7=24 d20+17=22 Monday March 3rd, 2003 9:59:12 PM
(Spot 24 and Listen 22)
Lian looks around cautiously, but remains silent. (if he sees anything everyone else doesn't, he'll state what he sees.)
K'Nara d20=16 d20+1=9 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 11:54:02 AM
(OOC: if Orson is the only one without a mount, then K'Nara will allow him to ride on Poki with her. The roll results for her Listen and Spot checks are 16 and 9, respectively.)
K'Nara's hazel eyes scanned the area as she listened sharply to what was mostly eerie silence.
"Olana and Milo, be especially careful checking the area out," she advised--no doubt needlessly, especially in view of the ranger's previous experience in the deep Culverwood, "This place can be enough to give a zombie the creeps..."
Orson mounts up behind K'Nara, quite capable of keeping up with the horses on foot, but why walk when you can ride for free.
When approaching the tree's location the fourth afternoon, Orson is a little jumpy, the eerie silence, and Olana's warning of magical predators from before both making him weary.
Getting closer, he'll slide off Poki, drawing his blades slowly, glancing around nervously. "Why couldn't he have sought out some power in a city or something, don't like this forest stuff," he'll whisper quietly. He'll stay close to K'Nara and Poki, using the horse and his own body to conceal his blades, just in case there's something besides animals that may be watching.
Olana d20+17=33 d20+13=33 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 9:27:42 PM
((Listen DC 33, Spot DC 33 nat 20))
Olana nods at K'Nara and dismounts, one hand holds her bow and an arrow, the other has the pony's reins as she watches the area up ahead where Milo is scouting.
It had been far too quiet.
Figment d20=5 d20=16 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 9:53:31 PM
The mage struggles to listen and look around but decides to focus instead on preparing his spells. He moves forward prepared to act instantly. His anticipation grows as he approaches what is supposed to be a thing of great power. "Nice place...".
Maloray d20+3=4 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 11:44:44 PM
The half elf dismounts Howler and draws a blue-fletched arrow (shock), holding it in his right hand. He begins to advance forwards slowly and as quietly as he knows how.
Arrival at the 'Tree' (DM Matt) Wednesday March 5th, 2003 1:08:23 AM
The Talons cautiously move forward, the sudden silence of the forest as they approach the tree disturbing. Advancing towards the location, the Talons see the large clearing the tree resides in, as shown on the map. The trees of the forest are void of the area, creating about a 90' diameter circle, better lighted that the rest of the forest the Talons had traveled through, due to lack of overhead canopy.
Approaching closer with even more caution, the Talons find no sign of Teramine, also the lack of any tree, magical or not, within the clearing is also a little disheartening. Arriving in the clearing, neither Olana or Milo sense any danger, besides the already noted silence.
Moving a few feat within the clearing, Olana quickly notices a booted footprint, though following it either way she can see only about 10 feet of tracks. Close by the humanoid tracks though, and more disturbing, Olana notes a large looking paw print, of some feline creature of great size, and it looks quite fresh.
Lian d20+7=17 d20+17=25 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 3:29:15 AM
The monk dismounts and looks around, cautiously removes his bow from his pack and knocks a masterwork arrow. The silence is unnerving him slightly. He scans the horizon, bow up and drawn. (Spot 17 and Listen 25)
He whispers, "Does anyone see anything of note?"
Brother Bertram Wednesday March 5th, 2003 9:26:25 AM
Bertram nervously fingers the haft of his axe, turing it over and over, keeping an eye on the trees around them, looking for signs of movement.
Olana d20+13=27 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 8:39:55 PM
The elf tells everyone about the tracks.
"Someone wearing boots has stepped this way, however I do not know if it was Tremaine, but whoever it is - I think they're being stalked, by a large, cat-like creature. As for the tree, I would perhaps have made a jest and say that it walked off to live somewhere else, but that might not be a joke..... not here."
She attempts to get a better idea of which direction both tracks are heading, then at least the party has a clue.
((Track/Wilderness Lore DC 27))
Figment Wednesday March 5th, 2003 9:30:03 PM
The mage's eyes glow white as he scans the area for magical auras (Detect Magic). "Perhaps a little magic may reveal the big magic...Hmmmm".
Milo d20+3=17 d20+12=21 d20+11=20 Thursday March 6th, 2003 4:17:18 AM
Examing the tracks with a mystified expression, "I think that there is something strange going on here indeed, though perhaps these tracks don't match up so neatly... it is hard to say." Milo continues to scout the area, looking for possible clues. (OOC: Listen and Spot checks at DCs 21 and 20 respectively).
Here kitty kitty..... (DM Matt) d20+13=27 d20+12=29 Thursday March 6th, 2003 1:52:49 PM
A closer look at the tracks show the booted prints are fairly old, over a few hours, while the large feline prints seem merely minutes. The cat print also seems to be moving in a direction different than the booted ones.
Figment casts his spell, and the first few seconds of scanning reveals no magical auras, beyond those brought by the Talons.
Glancing up from the tracks, Olana stares across the clearing, thinking she hear something from the brush. Ingrge to stares in that direction, though he heard no noise.
Both Ingrge and Olana notice a slight movement in the brush across the clearing from the party, though only briefly. Studying the brush for a moment, they both finally notice the large feline eyes staring right back at them through the plants, then a very large paw move foward out of the brush, the cat creeping forward.
Before either are able to do a thing though, Poki catches scent of the predator, neighing loudly to warn K'Nara. This however, also sends the large feline into action, moments later its sprinting towards the Talons. A second tiger springs into a charge to the right of the lead beast, and then a third reveals itself to the far left of the party. The beasts measure 10 feat at the shoulder when standing tall, and nearly thirty foot long, nose to tail. They close about 50' to the talons, and look quite capable of physical attacks in the next few seconds.
Post partial actions for the surpise round. Ill allow everyone to act, being as im such a nice DM :). If you would have been dismounted before (or still mounted), just say so in your post. I wasn't sure on a few people.
Ill post resolving the end of the round (your actions), then the beginning of the new round (tigers actions).
Ingrge d20+15=31 d6+6=10 Thursday March 6th, 2003 5:21:57 PM
Activating his boots (speed), Ingrge whips out his bow and drops to the ground. Aiming at the tiger directly in front of him he let's fly with an arrow (ac31 for 10 points)
Lian d20+10=20 d6=5 Thursday March 6th, 2003 8:35:01 PM
Lian fires (mw arrow) in reaction to the charging tigers (#1), hitting AC 20 for 5 damage.
He takes a 5 foot step.
Brother Bertram Thursday March 6th, 2003 8:37:01 PM
Bertram slaps his pony on the rump, hopefully sending it running away from the tigers. Murmuring a prayer to Domi, he draws his axe and prepares for the creatures to strike.
Figment Thursday March 6th, 2003 11:04:06 PM
Wishing the others would have waited to respond, the mage casts fly on himself and lifts straight up off Jux who he sends in the opposite direction of the felines. "Maybe we should see if they are going to attack first?".
Dm Note: For clarification (in case that comment wasn't in jest), the Tigers seem QUITE hostile, and intent on attacking, and probably devouring the talons and their steeds. They need to eat alot to support those large forms, after all :)
Orson (Power Attack: +7 Damage, -7 Hit; Charge: +2 Hit, -2 AC) d20+9=28 d20+9=16 d8+15=20 d8+15=21 Friday March 7th, 2003 12:00:37 AM
Taking in quickly that which goes on around him, he rests his glances briefly on K'Nara, then turns towards the tiger charging from the left(#2). "Who am I watching?" he hollers over his shoulder towards K'Nara with a smile as he rushes to meet the beast, advancing once again when he should probably wait. Clashing with the dire animal, he brings his new longsword down in a powerful swing, slashing deep into the beast.
[Hit Ac 28 (Crit Ac 16) for 20 (or crit. for 41)]
Milo (shield of faith, AC 24) Friday March 7th, 2003 1:56:50 AM
Praying fervently to Pantheon, Milo erects a shimmering shield of faith about his person, and then steps forward to stand next to Olana, "Lets hope they didn't eat our quarry."
K'Nara d20+4=20 d20+10=16 d20+13=28 d6+3=5 Friday March 7th, 2003 10:42:02 AM
Immediately upon seeing the charge of the three tigers, K'Nara reached around and unsheathed the Scimitar of Throwing even as she sprang off Poki's back (OOC: made a voluntary Dexterity check for that; result is 20).
"Maloray is your buddy, Orson..!" K'Nara reminded the warrior. (OOC: in fact, as a refresher, the current assigned battle buddies are: Milo and Figment...Ingrge and Lian...Orson and Maloray...Olana and Brother Bert. K'Nara looks out for everyone and appreciates it when anyone notices that she needs help herself.)
If K'Nara can jump off her horse AND throw her Scimitar in the same round, then she'll have hurled the blade at dire tiger #1 on the map. This thrown weapon hits AC28 for 5hpd. If it's ruled that she can't do both in the round, I'll re-roll on my next post.
Maloray d20+13=21 d8+3=6 d6=3 d20+8=21 d8+3=6 Friday March 7th, 2003 1:38:26 PM
As soon as Poki breaks the silence by neighing, Maloray snaps the fingers of his gloved left hand and suddenly his bow is in it. Nocking the arrow in his right hand, he lets fly at Tiger #1. Whether that shot hits or no, he'll immediately nock a normal masterwork arrow and let it fly as well at the same target.
Shot 1: d20 + 13 = AC 21 hit for 1d8+3 (+1d6 shock) = 9 damage
Shot 2: d20 + 8 = AC 21 hit for 1d8+3 = 6 damage.
Olana (dismounted) d20+13=26 d8+1=6 Friday March 7th, 2003 7:23:35 PM
Dropping the reins and firing the arrow already in her bow at tiger #3, Olana starts to re-load.
((Hits AC26 Dam 6))
"That would end our quest really fast, wouldn't it," she answers Milo with a wry smile.
Tiggers that Bounce....err...Pounce (DM Matt) d20+18=26 2d4(2+1)+8=11 d20+18=38 d20+18=25 d20+18=22 d20+18=37 d20+13=33 d20+18=36 d20+13=25 4d4(4+2+3+4)+16=29 2d4(4+3)+8=15 2d4(1+4)+4=9 4d6(6+3+3+3)+8=23 d20+18=23 d20+18=32 d20+13=14 2d4(3+4)+8=15 2d4(1+4)+8=13 d20+18=30 d20+18=31 d20+18=36 d20+18=20 d20+13=28 2d4(2+4)+8=14 2d4(3+2)+8=13 2d6(4+3)+4=11 2d4(4+4)+4=12 2d4(2+4)+4=10 Friday March 7th, 2003 8:35:05 PM
As the beasts leap from their hiding spots and charge; Ingrge, Lian, Olana, and Maloray all let their arrows fly, the men's arrows finding homes within the lead tiger, Olana's within the one charging her. It does little to slow the felines though, only invoking a deafening snarl from the larger of the two. Maloray, only a Partial action in surprise round, so only 1 shot.
Milo prays to Pantheon, his shield shimmering into existence around him. Figment too casts, lifting off his horse, who immediately follows instructions to head away from the charging cats. The rest of the horses follow suit, and lead themselves away from the direct vicinity of the upcoming melee.
Bertram only waits for the creature to close, waiting with his axe.
K'Nara slides from her horse gracefully, sword ready in hand as she hits the ground. Unfortunately there isn't enough time to get it thrown at the creature. I'd have let you dismount and throw, but not draw the weapon and throw, without Quick Draw
Orson charges to meet the creature, taking a solid hit as he moves into the tigers long reach.(AoO:Hit for 11dmg) He strikes the beast with a powerful hit, though it does little to halt the creatures attack.
-----
Despite the triple arrow wounds in its side, the lead tiger heads straight for K'Nara, somehow knowing it must challenge the Talon's leader. Leaping upon the warrior woman, it ferociously assaults her, tearing and slashing and biting. Its terrible mauling leaves the Talons leader severely wounded, the tiger retreating off the leader as others move forward to confront it. [Crit. hit with Claw, hit claw, 1 rake hit, 1 rake miss, Crit. hit with bite (76dmg = 29+15+9+23)]
The tiger on the left slides to a halt, its target having come out to meet it. It misses its bite upon the human warrior, but connects with both of its powerful claws. [2 Claws hit, bite miss (28dmg = 15+13)]
The third tiger leaps upon the other female of the group, tearing into the ranger much as the first tiger did K'Nara. [All attacks hit (60dmg = 13+14+11+12+10)
Surviving the initial pounce of the giant tigers, the talons are left to retaliate.
Orson (Power Attack: +7 Dmg, -7 Hit) d20+4=24 d20+4=20 d20+3=17 d20-2=6 d8+15=20 d8+13=18 d8+15=22 d8+15=21 Friday March 7th, 2003 9:04:46 PM
Roaring in rage, just trying to ignore the pain coursing through his body, Orson unleashes his full assult upon the overgrown kitten. He glances over his shoulder briefly, checking to see how everyone is fairing under their attack, and also to see if anyone is moving to back him up.
Main Hand AC 24 (Crit. 20) for 20 Dmg (41 dmg if Crit) Off Hand AC 17 for 18 Dmg Main Hand (2) AC 6 for 22 Dmg
Milo (shield of faith, AC 24) d20+10=27 d20+11=24 d20+11=30 d20+11=27 5d6(4+4+6+2+4)+1=21 6d6(6+4+1+5+6+4)+2=28 Friday March 7th, 2003 9:27:52 PM
Watching in horror as the tiger wounds Olana, Milo grits his teeth, "Time to take this tiger by the tail." The halfling tumbles around the tiger into a flanking position and comes up with short sword flashing, "Over here ya big house cat!" (OOC: Tumble check DC 27. Milo hits AC 24 and AC 30. AC 30 is a critical threat, and hopefully 27 is a confirm. Damage is 21 hps and 28 hps respectively with the short sword of speed. Total damage is 49 hps.)
Lian d20+10=28 d6=6 Friday March 7th, 2003 10:50:11 PM
Lian steps back a couple of feet and launches another arrow into the tiger that just chomped into his leader (tiger #1). Watching his partner Ingrge, making sure he's okay.
(Mw arrow hits AC 28 for 6 damage)
Lian's Dodge AC 24 is versus #3.
Thinking to himself. 'Those are big felines! Real big! Oh, K'Nara.'
Ingrge (boots of speed -AC 23) 6d8(5+4+7+2+7+8)+20=53 Saturday March 8th, 2003 4:15:24 PM
Seeing K'nara rocked and bloody sends a shock through his body. Seeing that the tiger is backing off a bit Ingrge pauses only long enough to toss his bow out of the way. Yelling over his shoulder, "Figment, I'm getting K'nara give me a few seconds and toast our furry friend." That said, Ingrge charges forward, using his extrordinary speed,(boots of speed) throws K'nara over a shoulder keeps going 40 feet, to the clear area between tigger 1 and tigger 2 where he hands K'nara 2 Cure serious potions. (53 points returned from the two potions)
DM Note: As K'Nara is not actually unconsious, she will have to spend her movement going with Ingrge (and would draw an attack of opportunity, if Ingrge didn't draw his AoO first). If she does allow Ingrge to carry her, Ill allow both cure potions this round, though that would be K'Nara's 'clobbered' action for the round.
Figment 9d6(6+4+4+2+1+4+2+6+3)=32 Sunday March 9th, 2003 5:30:31 PM
The mage lowers himself behind Orson and lines up #1 and #3. He then zaps them with a lightning bolt, focusing on their hind quarters to avoid hitting any Talons (32 DMG). He then prepares to fly up and away.
Maloray (AC 20) d20+12=25 2d6(2+5)+5=12 Sunday March 9th, 2003 8:40:17 PM
OOC sorry, didn't notice it was a surprise action. I should have known it, though.
IC Maloray is faced with a dilemma: Stay with their grievously wounded leader or follow up his battle-partner? The 1/2 elf makes his decision with his usual speed.
Simultaneously snapping the fingers on his right hand and muttering the command word of his left glove, Mal closes with Tiger #1 at K'Nara's right, and attacks double-handed with his father's sword, now suddenly in his hands.
ATTACK: D20+12= Hits AC 25 for 12 damage.
Olana (down to 1 hp) d20+10=11 d20+12=29 d10=7 d20+10=23 d8=6 2d6(2+4)=6 2d6(5+6)=11 Monday March 10th, 2003 12:42:27 PM
Unable to back away from the full ferocity of the creature, Olana struggles with her swords. She feels numb, knowing something is wrong. Glancing down, she sees nothing for a second, and then blood, beginning to pour. But there wasn't any time to think properly. If she stopped to take a potion, the thing would be on her again. She had to try and take it down...
She sees Milo out of the corner of her eye, and follows suit, stabbing both blades into the creature. But she was beginning to feel dizzy - what was wrong? Had the beast hit her harder than she thought?
((Missed badly with the first longsword, second hits DC 29 for 7, rerolling the first, using a hero point - hits DC23 for 6))))
DM EDIT: You Are flanking with Milo, so I rolled and added your Sneak Attack Damage (6 extra on first, 11 extra on second, 30pts. total.)
K'Nara Monday March 10th, 2003 7:18:11 PM
The tall redhead reeled from the speed and ferocity of the dire tiger's attack, instinctively allowing Ingrge's maneuver to go unresisted. K'Nara followed up by using the potion (or potions, if she can actually use both in one round) he gave her.
Brother Bertram 4d8(6+5+7+1)+7=26 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 7:43:14 AM
Bertram rushes to Olana and lays his hands upon the worst of the wounds, for the moment ignoring the menace before him. He prays to Domi for healing and aid with the current battle.
(OOC Casts Cure Critical Wounds for 26)
Surviving for Now... (DM Matt) d20+12=29 d20+12=13 d20+18=35 2d4(2+4)+8=14 d20+18=35 2d4(3+3)+8=14 d20+18=26 d20+18=31 d20+13=32 2d4(4+4)+8=16 2d4(4+4)+8=16 2d6(4+2)+4=10 d20+18=38 d20+18=22 4d4(4+1+2+3)+16=26 d20+18=21 2d4(2+3)+8=13 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 8:15:41 AM
Retaliating against the beasts attack, Orson's blades bite deep into the creature, who staggers under the warriors swings, but remains standing.
Milo Tumbles to the far side of the beast, and he and the severely wounded Olana skillfully place their blows against the huge cat.
Lians arrow finds its home within the beast, as Ingrge rushes in to save his wounded leader. Ingrge Takes the brunt of a powerful claw (AoO: 14 Dmg) as he sweeps the woman up and out to relative safety, he force feeds her one healing potion, as she opens the other, draining it quickly after finishing the first. Ill allow one of Ingrge actions to 'feed' the potion to K'Nara, then K'Nara's action to drink the other.
Maloray moves foward after Ingrge, the cats attention following the wizard, allowing the half-elf to close safetly. A mighty swing of his fathers blade sinks into the beast, but only seems to draw its attention towards the barbarian.
Figment lands close to wear Ingrge carried K'Nara, lining up and letting his bolt of electricity fly. It singes both the targeted cats, though the lead beast seemed to dodge the brunt of the bolt. The second beast wavers under the powerful magic, but is still standing for now.
Bertram rushes forth to heal Olana, taking a strike from the beast as he does so (AoO: 14Dmg). The ranger feels a little better, some of the dizziness going away, and the blood flow from her chest and stomach slowing a little.
The lead cat now unleashes its frenzy up the half-elf before it, clawing and biting at Maloray.(Claw hit, Claw hit, Bite hit, 42Dmg =16+16+10)
The feline to the left continues its attacks on the unfortunate ranger, though its heavy wounds halting most of its attacks. It still cleaves into the ranger with a powerful claw though, re-opening the wounds the dwarven cleric had just healed (Claw Crit. Hit, 26Dmg).
The last beast also continues its attack on Orson, its wounds to halting its ferocity. Still, a claw finds flesh to tear on the human warrior, landing a strong blow(Claw Hit, 13Dmg).
Current Combat Map - Will get combat map up later today, if needed. Positions are fairly similar with Figment, Ingrge and K'Nara in between tiger 2 and tiger 1, and Milo on the far side of tiger 2.
Milo (shield of faith, AC 24) d20+11=31 d20+11=21 d20+11=24 6d6(1+3+5+6+1+2)+2=20 5d6(6+4+6+6+4)+1=27 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 10:27:00 AM
Continuing to lash out at the huge tiger, Milo screams at the beast, "LEAVE HER ALONE! OVER HERE YOU DUMB TIGER... CAUSE I'M ABOUT TO KILL YOU!" Tears stream down the halfling's face as he opens up massive wounds in the beasts backside. (OOC: Crit again with a nat 20. Confirmed with AC 21. Second attack hits AC 24 for a total of 47 hps damage)
Lian d20+10=11 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 11:01:22 AM
The monk tries to get a better view of the tiger who attacked both K'nara and Ingrge and fires another masterwork arrow into the feline.
Missing, the monk steps forward about 10 feet to improve his shots and to defend the horses. He turns and gives his horse (Merlot) the back off signal. "Escopium!"
Orson (Power Attack: +7 Damage, -7 Hit) d20+7=22 d8+16=22 d20+2=18 d8+16=18 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 1:48:43 PM
Orson takes another swing at the monsterous cat, hacking into the beast. If it doesn't fall, he swings again, then takes a 5' step toward the lead tiger. If it does fall in a single swing, he move towards the tiger, stopping just within its reach, but not moving enough to provoke the creature. "Is she alright?" he calls, seeing K'Nara being tended to, but also he tries to keep an eye on the now wounded Maloray.
(Attack 1: AC 22, 22 Dmg If needed Attack 2: Ac 18, 18 Dmg)
Figment 9d6(5+6+1+6+3+6+6+5+1)=39 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 8:59:28 PM
The mage sticks with what he knows well and blasts the same 2 tigers yet again with a lightning bolt, intent on taking them down before they can strike again. (39 DMG)
Olana d20+10=20 d20+12=18 d8=8 d10=9 2d6(4+2)=6 2d6(4+4)=8 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 2:33:31 AM
The elf feels the sudden strength of healing sweep through her like a wave. Bertram. Praise the Gods.
But the creature wasn't down yet, and although it is badly wounded, and she attempts to dodge the blows, the thing tears at her again, and she feels everything begin to fade once more. She can see Milo, hear him.... can't let it get to him, and so she brings her swords to bear once more, plunging in with both blades.
If only she didn't feel so dizzy.
((Hitting a 20 and 18, for 14 and 17))
K'Nara (23hpd) d20+13=33 d20+13=32 d20+13=29 2d6(1+3)+4=8 2d6(1+6)+4=11 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 12:37:51 PM
K'Nara recovered from the dire tiger's attack sufficiently to quickly scan the field of battle and see that Orson was fighting a tiger all by himself...so she chose to hurl the Scimitar of Throwing with all her might at the dire beastie he was hacking away at (OOC: taking a five-foot step to get in range if it is necessary).
(OOC: first, I'm assuming that Orson's tiger [#2, if I remember correctly] is within the throwing range of the scimitar [about 12 feet]. If it isn't, then K'Nara will throw the blade at whatever tiger IS within the range of the scimitar. If neither tiger is within throwing range, K'Nara will choose to go to Orson's aid.
Still assuming that K'Nara gets to throw her Scimitar, I've rolled a possible Crit Hit, followed by ANOTHER possible Crit Hit result. Not being near my set of D&D books, I don't remember exactly how this gets resolved, so I rolled a third time and then rolled a total of two Crit Hit results: first Crit Hit does 8hpd; the second results in 11hpd. I'll let DM Matt sort out how much of that actually occurs. ;D)
Maloray (24 hp 16 temporary. AC 18) (RAGE) d20+14=17 2d6(5+3)+7=15 d20+8=24 2d6(4+5)+7=16 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 3:45:13 PM
The pain of the tiger's gashes flowing through him like liquid fire, Maloray flies into a furious rage, attacking the tiger before him twice.
ATTACK 1: D20+14= AC 17 hit for 15 ATTACK 2: D20+8 = AC 24 hit for 16
OOC I still have not rolled a threat with this Keen Greatsword (threat 17-20).
Brother Bertram 4d8(4+3+6+5)+7=25 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 7:50:07 PM
Bertram grimaces as the creature claws at him, but his pain is amplified, seeing Olana slashed open again. Once again ignoring the beast, Bertram prays over Olana trying to keep himself between the beast and his friend.
Ingrge (boots of speed) AC 23 d20+5=21 d20+11=30 d20+15=24 d6+5=11 d6=4 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 10:07:25 PM
Seeing that K'nara is looking a bit better, Ingrge Tells her to stand stil for a moment and casts a spell on their leader (stoneskin). There that should help protect you a bit.
Then taking a deep breath Ingrge takes off at a sprint and from behind Leaps on to Tigger 1's back, (dex dc 21, jump dc 30) driving his sword down between the shoulderblades of the large cat. (AC 24 for 11 points and 4 point loss of temp constitution)
Kitty play time is over (DM Matt) d20+12=15 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 10:49:27 PM
Orson again lashes out at the beast, twice with the sword in his left hand, using the right sword for balance, and support. The blows are still insufficient to drop the creature.
Milo and Olana once again effectively distract the beast together, accurately placing thier blades into the giant tiger. Figments magical lightning backs up the pairs blades, making sure their beast is dead, though the lead tiger takes the bolt without wavering.
The beast on Orson rears to attack the wounded human, but never gets the chance. K'Nara's scimitar sails through the air, imbedding deep into the creatures neck, bringing it down.
Lian's misses with an arrow, though Maloray cleaves into the last remaining beast with with two powerful strikes.
After casting his spell upon the not so wounded leader, Ingrge leaps successfully onto the creatures back, striking it with his blade. Wounded, surrounded, and now alone, the tiger begins to turn to flee, but the magic venom of Ingrge's blade courses through its body takes effect, sapping the beasts last bit of strength, and the mighty beast falls.
Bertram heals Olana's once again severe wounds, returning some of the elf's strength, though isn't so pressed for time as the threat of the tigers is gone.
Oops...error on my part with the beasts being staggered last round, I used the entire rounds damage, not a single blows damage, so Talons benifited this time, won't happen again :P
Milo (shield of faith, AC 24) Thursday March 13th, 2003 1:21:28 AM
Milo glances toward Figment to make sure that his battle buddy is okay, and seeing the wizard unharmed, runs for Olana. Nearly barreling into the elf maiden, Milo stops momentarily to survey her wounds.
Lian Thursday March 13th, 2003 10:10:25 AM
Lian checks to see if the horses are alright and if he can see if any ran off and in what direction. Then he looks at Ingrge.
"Friend Ingrge, are you okay? Brother Bertram how about you?"
Brother Bertram Thursday March 13th, 2003 10:36:43 AM
Seeing Milo surge in front of him to examine Olan's wounds, Bertram feels a twinge of indignation that Milo would doubt his work. "Shaking off his feelings he moves towards Lian. A scratch, Friend Lian, Nothing more! And yourself? How do you fare?" As he talks Bertram looks about to see who is in the most danger from thier wounds.
Orson (15/57hps) Thursday March 13th, 2003 11:05:59 PM
Orson glances in the direction of the thrown blade, realizing the blow he was bracing for wasn't coming. Seeing the Talons leader in that direction, he smiles, "Thanks," and sticks his swords into the ground, collapsing for a breather, and to regroup his strength. It was a very short battle, but the wounds caused to him had taken their toll on the young warrior. After a few moments he stands and retrieves K'Nara's thrown weapon, wiping it clean with his cloak, and returning it to its owner. "Yours I believe?"
Olana (24/61hps) Friday March 14th, 2003 12:09:16 AM
Olana stood there, looking down at the dead tiger, stunned, knowing she had been that close. Milo knocked her out of her reverie and she hugged him tightly, some of the pain coming back.
"I'll live," she whispered, not wanting to let him go. "Bertram kept me alive, while we killed it."
She'll go and hug Bertram afterwards, too, and then suggest they check the carcasses of the tigers, to make sure they hadn't eaten the man they were after.
Ingrge Friday March 14th, 2003 7:54:51 AM
Shocked and a bit shaken, Ingrge dismounts from his feline mount and surveys the field of battle. Seeing no dead Talons and no other opponents currently, he turns as Lian addresses him. " Umm, Yes. I seem to be fine. I am injured but it is not terribly serious, unless these beasts were also lycanthropes. And if thats the case well..." he tails off and shrugs. Turning back to the tiger Ingrge makes sure it is dead by slitting its throat and then cuts out one of the beasts long canine teeth and the cleans both the tooth and his sword.
Walking up to K'nara, Ingrge stops a few paces away and then addresses their leader. "K'nara, if we have an hour or two to spend I can try and scry out our quarry's location and perhaps save us a few hours in the long run."
Figment Friday March 14th, 2003 9:10:36 AM
The mage nods at Ingrge's suggestion. "With predators of this size in the area I would imagine most everything around here has taken flight. I think we will be safe tonight - and if we can figure out a way to transport them, the skins of these animals will bring an impressive price in the cities.". Turning to his fellow mage, Figment says "I'd very much like to observe your efforts. I have not taken the time to learn how to scry yet - an oversight I need to correct - if you're willing.".
Maloray (HP 8/50) Saturday March 15th, 2003 10:10:42 AM
Seeing the giant tiger in front of him fall, Maloray glances quickly around for another foe, just in time to see them too collapse. Slowly the half elf releases his fury, and collapses unconscious to the ground.
Temporary Rest (DM Matt) Sunday March 16th, 2003 8:40:20 PM
No threats presenting themselves, wounds are tended to and healed, and setting up a temperary rest area, Ingrge prepares for his scrying.
Olana investigates the surrounding area for tracks some more, finding the 3 tigers have been roaming the area for some time, almost for half a day. More importantly, she finds again the booted prints, though again only for a brief area of about 10 feet. The tracks head deep into the woods as they exit into the woods, and disappear. About 5 feet to the left of those prints, Olana finds another set of what looks to be dire tiger prints. Those tracks seem to be about the same time frame as the booted mans, and run parallel with them into the forest.
Should the Talon's leader give the go ahead, the talons remain in the area as Ingrge casts his scry.
Inspection shows Olana, Orson, and Maloray are heavily wounded, with Bertram, Ingrge, and K'Nara having minor wounds.
Brother Bertram 3d8(6+1+3)+7=17 3d8(3+1+1)+7=12 3d8(1+6+8)+7=22 Sunday March 16th, 2003 9:37:51 PM
Bertram prays over Olana and Orson and Maloray healing what wounds that he can.
(OOC Trading Magic vestments, Daylight, Continual Flame for 3 x Cure Serious-Olana-17, Orson-12, Maloray-22)
Milo 2d8(8+1)+3=12 2d8(8+1)+3=12 d8+3=10 d8+3=9 Monday March 17th, 2003 3:06:05 AM
Milo moves among the wounded, plying what small amount of healing that he has available. He moves first to Orson, then back to Olana, and finally over to K'nara. Afterwards, Milo approaches Bertram, and without warning wraps his arms around the dwarf cleric in a halfling-size bear hug, "Thank you, thank you, thank you for looking after Olana the way you did... I don't know what I'd have done without you in that mess." Milo looks sincerely thankful.
(OOC: Trading up lesser restoration and remove paralysis for cure moderate wounds twice. Healed 12 hps on Orson and 12 hps on Olana. Traded up protection from evil and remove fear for cure light wounds twice on K'nara for a total of 19 hps healed.)
Lian Monday March 17th, 2003 5:16:41 AM
Lian reflects on the dire tiger attack by sitting aside away from the the scrying area. As he sits, he consults his scroll and studies it somemore with great interest. Occassionally he'll mutter to himself about something. He remains quiet while the scrying takes place, so not to interrupt the delicate process.
K'Nara Monday March 17th, 2003 7:25:33 AM
"We'll make camp here, I suppose--both to give Ingrge that chance to scry and to help heal up the most serious of the wounds we've sustained." K'Nara agreed with the elf's suggestion and offered the use of two of her own Cure Moderate Wounds potions for Maloray's benefit if there wasn't enough divine magic to do so.
Figment Monday March 17th, 2003 7:11:12 PM
The mage checks on the mounts to make sure they are all gathered. He pulls out his cooking equipment and makes a gourmet meal for the group. He also carves out a nice flank from one of the tigers and experiments cooking it. "No need to let good meat go to waste...".
Kent d20+17=34 Monday March 17th, 2003 7:31:22 PM
Once camp is set up and everyone is back in order, Ingrge gives a nod to Figment and opens up his backpack. Carefully reaching in he works a large object out of it. Once done all can see that it is a large 4 ft highly polished silver mirror.
Making his way to an area away from the hustle and hubub of the camp Ingrge settles down with his mirror and starts his spell work to locate the former Tine leader. Having spent several weeks travelling with the man and having recently confirmed, from the messenger, that he has undergone no major physical changes, Ingrge feels normal location shouldn't be too difficulty. (Scry roll DC 34)
Olana 53/61 hps Monday March 17th, 2003 9:05:47 PM
Olana tells the others what she has discovered during scouting. Her strength starts to return as Milo and Bertram heal her some more. In fact she starts to feel a whole lot better.
She eats the meal Figment has prepared gladly, and will help guard the camp while the scry takes place.
Scrying on Tremaine (DM Matt) d20+10=22 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 12:28:42 AM
The talons relax for a bit as Ingrge begins his casting, Milo and Bertram sufficently healing most of the major wounds, though so minor injuries still remain. Figments meal is devoured happily, and those willing to taste the tiger flesh find it isn't that bad, though a little rough.
Ingrge casts his spell, the mirror before him clouding up as he finishes. After a few moments the spell begins to function, the mists within the mirror parting to show his quarry. Tremaine looks much like Ingrge remembers, though not well groomed or cleaned as the charismatic leader had once been. He is moving at a far pace through a forest, not unlike the woods the party stands in now, glancing around as he walks. A extremely large tiger (slightly bigger than the biggest of those the talons just killed) walks along beside the Tine's leader. Tremaine stops suddenly, resting a hand upong the giant beast next to him, bringing it to a stop as well. He glances around slowly, his gaze stops as he stares towards the direction of Ingrge's view. Scowling, he turns his attention toward the beast, speaking in sylvan "He is watching even now, we must hurry." Concentrating for a moment, the leader of the Tine begins to shift, enlarging and taking the form of a large tiger, much like the one next to him. Both dart off into the woods, though Ingrge's sensor remains on the druid. The speed at which the two large tigers move through the dense forest is incredible, and thier pace doesn't slow for the ten minutes the mage is able to watch.
Lian d20-1=3 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 5:54:44 AM
While the mage scrys on the Talons quarry, the monk opens a package wrapped in brown paper he recieved in Edenmoor. He removes a grey cloak and a nice looking suede vest with bone buttons from the package and puts them on. They fit well. When he's sure the scrying is complete, Lian removes a small wooden flute no one has seen before and begins playing a low melody; it's far from being impressive. The notes might sound like something a child would play. However poor the tune is, the sounds of nature quickly outdue the monks performance.
Figment Tuesday March 18th, 2003 7:25:21 PM
The mage raises an eyebrow as the the druid transforms and moves off. "Looks like Tremain left these cats to find us - or whoever was following. I hope he doesn't get mad that we killed them. Looks like we'll not catch him any time soon. I wonder if we can track which way he went? I doubt we'll have much luck chasing a druid through the forest. By the way, nice work, Ingrge. Nice work in deed.".
Ingrge Tuesday March 18th, 2003 9:46:18 PM
While watching, Ingrge tries to get a sense of which way they are going by trying to see where the sun is or by which way their shadows are falling. Other clues he might look for are whether they seem to be traveling uphill or down the types of tres surrounding them or if they seem to be travelling on some sort of trail.
When the spell ends, Ingrge is obviously a bit tired and after a bite to eat and making his report, he retires to his bedroll and starts to rest.
Olana Wednesday March 19th, 2003 12:18:05 AM
The elf gives a sigh as Ingrge gives his report. "I wonder if he'll listen to reason when we find him," she wonders aloud.
She checks with K'Nara on what their next move should be.
Milo Wednesday March 19th, 2003 2:17:17 AM
Milo spends some time in contemplation, considering the events of the day, as well as their current path. He then approaches K'nara quietly, "We know where he goes, perhaps we should simply take the quick road, and beat him there. We could guard the entrance to Parnoth's lair, waiting for him to arrive, which is far less aggravating then attempting to track him down at this rate."
Brother Bertram 2d8(3+4)+2=9 2d8(8+2)+2=12 2d8(3+6)+2=11 2d8(3+1)+2=6 2d8(3+5)+2=10 2d8(3+7)+2=12 2d8(8+7)+2=17 Wednesday March 19th, 2003 10:09:41 AM
Bertram moves once more amongst the group, praying over remaining wounds, trying to bring everyone to full strength before they again face such a trial. He moves from one member to the other checking them all, starting with the most obviously wounded. Bertram prays over each, searching for the grace and strength to heal them all.
(OOC Bert will start with Olana and then Orson, Maloray, and any others that have wounds. He will finish with himself if there is any healing left. Trading all 2nd level spells for Cure Moderate until the group is healed, saving Detect Evil for last if possible but will use it to get us all healed if need be. Grand Total w/o Detect Evil is 60-if I trade Detect Evil then my total is 77 )
Orson Wednesday March 19th, 2003 11:22:30 PM
"Well if we can't track the druid, what about that tiger you said he has with him? That shouldn't be to tough to track?" Orson doesn't really know how to do that, but he had heard druids can be difficult to find within the forest. "How far away are they?"
If it looks as though they may stick around the area for a bit, he will unroll his bed roll, after cleaning up his swords and armor the best he can.
A little more Tracking (DM Matt) Wednesday March 19th, 2003 11:33:10 PM
Bertram finishes his rounds, healing all but the slightest of wounds on a few people. You still have Detect Evil. Current Hps: Ingrge 68/72, K'Nara 80/85, Maloray 47/50, Bertram 56/58, Orson 51/57.
Ingrge doesn't notice much that is easily identifiable in his scrying, but the tree's are of the same type the talons find around them. Tremaine didn't seem to be moving at a great speed as he was moving at first, glancing around and examining the plants around him. No trail is obvious though, either when he was walking as a man, or sprinting as a tiger.
The Talons finish their meal, and rest for a little while. Olana does a little more searching, the booted tracks and the felines tracks beside it looking to be made within the last day, though before the other tiger's were in the area. She guesses probably 10-12 hours have past since the person came through.
The talons remain in the small glade, waiting to see if the move now or rest longer.
Lian d10=2 d20+29=37 d20+7=14 Thursday March 20th, 2003 5:59:09 AM
The monk packs his gear up to get ready to go.
"K'nara, it seems to me, perhaps, if he is continuing through the forest, the longer we wait, the further away he gets." Lian pulls his bow and knocks an arrow just to be on the safe side. He scans the horizon for any tigers or Tremaine. Then he jumps into a tree.
(OOC: Provided the glade has a tall tree nearby or at least a semi-tall tree, Lian jumps to the first branch and hides in the crouch of the tree to get a good view(spot check 14) of the glade for the moment. Hide check 37.) Note: Disregard the d10 roll.
Brother Bertram Thursday March 20th, 2003 8:20:38 PM
Bertram sits down exhausted from his exertions. He leans back and allows his body to rest until the group moves on. He will pray to Domi thanking him for his help and praying for further help as they group moves forward.
Olana Friday March 21st, 2003 1:32:28 AM
Olana agrees with Lian, and waits to see if he can see anything from his vantage point, although she tells K'Nara that Milo's idea might be good too.
"What's puzzling me, is the tree - it's supposed to be here. It isn't. It make me wonder, if... well you know - if it can move, or something."
Milo Friday March 21st, 2003 10:11:58 AM
Milo stands ready to assist with the tracking or double time it to Parnoth's lair, whichever K'nara chooses. After the tiger attack he stands extremely close to Olana, a hand resting firmly on the pommel of his sheathed short sword.
Figment Friday March 21st, 2003 7:30:15 PM
Nodding his head as he watches Ingrge's scrying, Figment tries to catch every little thing he can about how the spell works and the little nuances that Ingrge puts into his work. When the scrying is finished he helps his fellow mage with whatever cleanup, etc that needs to be done asking questions of Ingrge as they go, stopping only when Ingrge makes his way to his bed roll.
Ingrge Friday March 21st, 2003 7:32:14 PM
Sleeping as long as allowed, Ingrge, when woken gets repacked and ready to go.
Orson Friday March 21st, 2003 11:25:03 PM
Orson listens to the ideas, having no particular care in either. Listening to Olana's questions he adds, "Well the map says its supposed to be here, but how do we know the map is accurate?"
He relaxes as the decision to move is made, packed and ready to go, whenever the leader decides to give the order to move.
The pursuit (DM Matt) Monday March 24th, 2003 5:32:04 PM
Olana finds no other trace of the humans foot prints, as stated tacking a druid through the forest is nearly impossible. However she is quite capable of following the single dire tigers trail that leaves the clearing, seeming to be about 10-12 hours old.
With several hours of daylight remaining, the Talons finish up their gourmet meal, and after a little bit of rest, take pursuit following the tiger's tracks, it pretty clear that its the animal travelling with the Tremaine. The tigers pace at this point seemed quite slow, the distance between steps minimal.
Moving quickly though the woods, the Talons make up several hours on the trail, and as the darkness of night settles over the woods come across a point where the druid and his companion seemed to have rested for a short while, a large depression in the brush where the cat had slept.
Night has fallen, and the quickened pace the talons and their steeds kept for the last few hours took its toll, even the seasoned adventurers felt slightly exhausted. The small area is well equiped to be a campsite, a small clearing could easily provide a place for a fire, and although cramped, the level and relatively cleared ground gives sufficient place to sleep.
OOC: Sorry for the slack in posts the last few days. Was waiting for a decision to move or not, but just decided to make it for you, to keep things moving. Feel free to continue any back discussion that i may have interrupted.
Another Note: Unfortunately I'm only going to be making a few more posts while Jan gets another DM lined up, I'm taking on a second full time job, the prospect for extra money to get some school bills paid off just to appealing. I will continue to try and post as Orson, though not sure if I will be able to keep up a steady posting, guess well see.
Figment Monday March 24th, 2003 11:22:08 PM
The mage, as usual, takes care of Jux and then cooks a fine meal. He then takes his rest and his watch, to prepare for the next day. He focuses his mental energy on Ingrge's scrying and explanations.
Lian Tuesday March 25th, 2003 12:38:22 AM
The monk rides Merlot and trails behind the rest of group. His mind isn't on the scrying or on Tremaine, but on the path his life has taken in the past year. He thinks back to the easier days at the monastery and his family. He pats Merlot on the mane as he travels.
Milo Tuesday March 25th, 2003 10:03:35 AM
As Milo rides along with Olana, he nearly falls asleep within his contentment, though discipline and the task at hand, manage to keep the halfling justicar somewhat alert. Once camp is set however, he becomes a one halfling guard squad, standing alert for danger as his friends go about their camp duties. Milo considers the best way to take down a druid, and is in a quandary as he'd prefer not to hurt Tremaine. Occasionally his gaze strays back to Olana, and he allows himself to become momentarily distracted.
Olana Tuesday March 25th, 2003 9:16:22 PM
The elf does her best to follow the trail until it reaches the campsite. Milo's company calms her down, enabling her to make better judgements. She had been more spooked about the tiger situation than she thought, and the fact they were following two more didn't help.
Still.... there were worse things.
She'll take her turn on watch, and perhaps note that Lian has been very introspective, lately.
Brother Bertram d20=16 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 1:58:18 PM
Bertram followed along,keeping an eye out along the sides of the trail and behind them, watching for anything out of the ordinary.
Temp DM Jan Wednesday March 26th, 2003 4:11:50 PM
Night falls..... and here in deepest darkest Culverwood it starts to get a little spooky. Unseen night creatures can be heard beyond the perimeter of the camp. There's a definite impression that a full watch will be needed.
((OOC - folks I need to know who's on watch during the night and when - the usual three shifts.))
Brother Bertram Wednesday March 26th, 2003 8:48:28 PM
Bertram requests the final shift so that he can pray to Domi and prepare for the coming day.
Figment Wednesday March 26th, 2003 9:23:30 PM
The mage offers to take the first shift as all his spells are available to him already and he does not need to rest to replentish.
Ingrge d20+17=32 Wednesday March 26th, 2003 10:26:14 PM
Ingrge looks around the area as the group sets up camp. Seeing K'nara still wearied from her recent injuries, He looks around at the others.
"Figment and Maloray take first watch tonite, Olanna and Lian take second, Orson, and Milo should take third and I will take last with Bertram. K'nara you need to rest after your injuries and a you will be more effective if you are fresher." After camp is set up, I am going to do another scrying and see what I can see of our friend.
Setting up his mirror again Ingrge gets to work. Scry DC 32, shouldn't have to difficult a problem)
Milo Thursday March 27th, 2003 1:20:29 AM
"Okey Dokey Ingrge," Milo smiles at the elf, and after assisting with setting up camp and having a bite, the halfling settles in for some sleep.
Olana Thursday March 27th, 2003 6:40:00 PM
The elf nods at Ingrge and settles down next to Milo for a spell of meditation, before the second watch.
Temp DM Jan d3=1 Thursday March 27th, 2003 6:44:41 PM
The Talons settle down for the night. However - this being Culverwood...
Figment and Maloray become aware of a slight "pop" sound. In the vicinity of the sound - where there was a patch of clear groud at the edge of the clearing - there is now a toadstool - red, with white spots - about a foot tall and two feet in diameter. A minute later - there's another "pop" coming from the opposite side of the clearing.
Followed by another, and another.
Figment Thursday March 27th, 2003 11:51:32 PM
The mage motions to Maloray to wake the others up. He then casts detect magic and attempts to figure out what's going on.
Lian d20+6=26 Friday March 28th, 2003 1:36:54 AM
Lian comes out of his elven meditation. "What is going on?" Then hearing a pop, he glances over. "Oh, that is quite odd!" (Knowledge Arcana, 26!!) "Figment, you ever hear of anything this strange?!" He then grabs his bow and a handful(3) of masterwork arrows.
Milo Friday March 28th, 2003 1:01:16 PM
Once wakened, Milo opens his eyes to the sight of Olana lying next to him, and for a moment feels extremely content to just lay there and watch her meditate. He then remembers that it was to be Olana or Lian who waked him for watch, and realizes that something is amiss. Sitting up, the halfling looks around, attempting to ascertain the threat.
Temp DM Jan Friday March 28th, 2003 8:03:43 PM
Figment's spell enables him to ascertain that something magical is going on. He will recognise a shimmering aura of illusion falling on everyone like an invisible blanket, and something else - evocation. Lian may surmise that the toadstools are a little too perfect to be natural.
Maloray wakes everyone, but by the time everyone is awake and aware - the 'popping' has stopped - and the group is entirely within a toadstool circle.
Beyond it, everyone hears a high-pitched, musical giggle.
Lian Saturday March 29th, 2003 1:01:48 AM
Thinking on his feet, totally uncharacteristic of the monk, he removes some scraps of cloth from the hem of his tattered breeches and tucks them into both ears to muffle or deaden the sound.(I'll happily take any penalties on Listen checks if you like) "That giggling laughter, do not listen! Those toadstools are not natural, though that is probably obvious." He says to Maloray and to everyone who is awake. Then he knocks his arrow and scans the circle for where the laughter is coming from.
Milo d20+11=23 d20+12=29 Saturday March 29th, 2003 1:47:20 AM
Hearing the giggling, Milo stands up and after fully equiping himself, attempts to look out and listen into the darkness to figure out where the sound is coming from. (OOC: Made Spot and Listen checks DCs 23 and 29 respectively)
Figment Saturday March 29th, 2003 9:47:08 AM
The mage scans the area for the troublemaker. "It's a pixie or something. These mushrooms are illusions and its trying to distract us. Keep an eye on your gear. They are fast and very mischievous".
Brother Bertram Sunday March 30th, 2003 10:18:46 PM
Bertram rouses wearily and looks about at the unnatural occurence. He grips his axe and examines the area looking for anything or anyone moving about.
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