DM Bob and Carla Friday October 31st, 2008 12:52:05 AM
The last time the party had spotted smoke rising into the sky, it had been burning wagons. This time, much to Beren and Alexi's relief, they see smoke rising from behind a skeleton-like assemblage of partially constructed buildings. The new settlement seems ensconced in a deep bay in the hill--a gorge opened in the rock with shadowy cliffs on either side. Across the front there is a low and jumbled rubble wall, with gaps here and there. It seems a rough and incomplete attempt at controlling entrance into the gorge. To one side a shallow stream passes out from the gorge and meanders across the vale.
Settlers from the caravan have spread out on either side of the valley. On closer observation, some of the wagons are still moving, while others are stopped, the horses or oxen unhitched, and the occupants in the process making camp. Keela spots the familiar forms of the Plainfield family staking claim to a plot along the stream not far from the mouth of the gorge. Her sister tends a small fire in front of the large canvas tent while the children play at the edge of the stream. Her brother-in-law is busy digging holes and studying the soil.
Fatine does not see her friend, but senses that Col is near, probably somewhere in the settlement looking for the easiest way to his next meal.
Pleasant fantasies occupy Jet's thoughts during the dull ride towards the settlement, but now there are other things to take into account.
The farmers staking their claims don't account for all the settlers however, and a wide rutted track stretches before the adventurers leading them towards the new settlement of Bryn Barraz.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=11 ; d20+7=19 ; Friday October 31st, 2008 3:36:24 AM
Looking over where Beren said there was fire, Caelnin wishes that it is just a campfire and he moves towards the source of smoke as quickly as he can.
Spot 11, Listen 19
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=15 ; d20+3=18 ; d20+3=10 ; Friday October 31st, 2008 4:22:13 AM
Riding slightly forward, Anrete stares at the smoke and ponders.
=============================================== Spot 15 Listen 18 Survival 10 (to tell anything special about the smoke)
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al Friday October 31st, 2008 10:02:17 AM
"You don need worry 'bout dee smoke, Alexi." A smile spreads across her ring-pierced lips. "I'm feelin' Col now, an' dee bird, he not worried a'tall."
"Les go, dogs." The witch kicks her mount into a light canter, speeding her approach toward the new settlement. Tongues lolling from their mouths, Shadow and Cloud run along on either side.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=27 ; d20+9=22 ; Friday October 31st, 2008 10:32:05 AM
After discovering the source of the smoke, Beren settles his nerves.
"Let's report in, and get settled."
He follows the others in search of the caravan leader.
spot 27 listen 22
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Friday October 31st, 2008 2:29:53 PM
Jet keeps riding, with a smile on his face and the knowledge his equipment is safe and he can now start making some beer and ale, as well as drinking more.
The first place he does go though, is to find Garth, the Wagonmaster.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) - sub Kelly Friday October 31st, 2008 3:48:48 PM
Alexi visibly relaxes and hunger pains are noticed. Sniffing the air, he looks about for someone cooking food. Once found, he rides over and offers these words of comfort while staring at the food being cooked:
"You are safe once again, we have vanquished the enemy and are here to protect you. No need for thanks. My, that sure smells good."
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Friday October 31st, 2008 7:13:31 PM
OOC: Eeheheh.... Not quite sure how my last post got there... must've not have refreshed... dang...
------
Now noticing that the smoke is nothing more than campfires and people cooking things, Caelnin is relieved.
"Now off to find my Vilria. Haven't seen her in a while, but I guess we'll find Garth first." he says to Huetheria and he rides off to find him.
Keela Sunday November 2nd, 2008 7:59:47 PM
Eagerly, Keela rushes forward to be reuinted with her family. "Senna!" she calls as she approaches. "Daben! Oh, how I missed you! How are you all? Is this going to be your farm? Why didn't the wagon train wait for us, like they said?"
DM Bob & Carla Sunday November 2nd, 2008 10:46:51 PM
Garth Turnbuckle spots the arriving horsemen and waves them over. "Glad to see you made it through without harm" he greets them. "Welcome to Bryn Baraz! Still pretty rough, but it'll be a proper town soon enough. I guess folks here were worried 'bout us. Sent out a scout to find us and escorted us in....been a couple of small raids on the town...trying to drive folks out. "
The rough and tumble town of Bryn Baraz stretches before them. It is situated in a blind canyon. The outerwall that guards the mouth of the canyon is only 2-3 feet in height and comprised of loosely piled stone. Four square foundations of stone have been built, and the beginnings of a wooden tower spring from two of them. Beyond the outerwall lies the townsite itself. In the center a large stone building is still under construction and behind it stands a water tower that looks newly completed. A number of stone foundations have been constructed along the southern half of the canyon,and piles of lumber are stacked beside some of them. Along the northern side are scattered a series of wooden platforms. Large canvas tents have been placed over several of them. People are scattered across the townsite, erecting tents, unpacking wagons, and otherwise beginning to settle in. Outside the outer walls, a number of smaller groups of wagons have scattered across the valley floor along a small stream that seems to originate somewhere along the northern wall of the canyon.
The smoke seen from the outside seems to be emanating from behind a second stone wall that has been built across the back of the canyon, separating the eastern corner from the rest. This wall has been properly constructed and is a much more formidable battlement than the outer wall. Two short stone towers serve as a gateway into the minesite itself. Anrete considers the smoke and realizes that it carries with it the smell of molten metal.
Only Keela does not report in to the wagonmaster, having sited her family's wagons just outside the outer walls.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Monday November 3rd, 2008 2:50:46 AM
Once Caelnin has met up with Garth, he asks him "Is there anything that I can do to help with construction, or anything else? I'm pretty good with bows and such, that being able to help out with building construction, if I am taught, will help a bit. Many hands make quick work."
After talking with Garth, he excuses himself to find Vilria and his wagon, hopefully still with Keela's family. He has been anxious about Vilria, although he knows she has been in good hands and can't wait to see what the children have done to her.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al Monday November 3rd, 2008 9:36:14 AM
After securing her horse to Tarketh's wagon, Fatine walks into the fledgling town with Shadow and Cloud at her side. The meeting with the wagon master is brief enough. The witch keeps largely to herself, content to listen to the plans of the men folk. The layout of the town provides more interest, and after the meeting, she wanders the rough streets and ways with her dogs. The feel of the place can near be drunk like a tea combining the rough earthy taste of barley and the bitter stimulating kick of hawthorne leaves.
"You given her much t'ought dere, Boss?" she asks Tarketh upon returning to the wagon. "Where you gon' be hidin' dat dere Orb o' Kalista, dat is?"
"Mebe da mine, yeah? If Kalista, she foun' de orb in a dry undergroun' riber, mebe dat de kind o' place de orb wann' be."
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Monday November 3rd, 2008 2:30:00 PM
Beren reports in with the others.
"Now that we are here, what are our duties? What will you do about the natives situation? To liv in peace with them, we must help them to peace. We promised as much to them when we met with them."
The ranger is all business, and wants to know what is going to happen.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Monday November 3rd, 2008 3:06:58 PM
Jet lets the others say their will and he asks to pull Garth aside from others not in the party.
He goes into great detail about the dark dream sequence that took place and warns him, that he needs to immediately send out a search party to find this creature that still sleeps before it wakes up.
He also suggests that magical messages, from some of the arcane wielders in our camp to be sent to Istaqa, the shaman, on what the next step is.
"I don't feel there is time to waste with this Garth. From what we saw in what was a very lucid vision, the same could happen to this settlement just as quickly and we won't recover like the Ahote. This is their land for generations. We don't know how to live like these people on this land."
On a lighter note, he tells Garth, the patrol as a group has loot that needs to be divided, "Is there by chance a merchant of Ffloy here in the town that can help us with treasure, or has there been a magical catacombs made available? If not, what are we to do? Was this not though of in advance?
Jet's tone of voice is matter of fact. Not insubordinate, but it is clear, there are many things on his mind right now that require immediate attentions, even though the wagon train has arrived.
After that, he goes and finds Tarketh. Likely seing Fatine nearby he will smile and nod, knowing anything said, friendly or not could be taken the wrong way by the woman so all he does is ask to see the druid and he will wait utill Tarketh is avaiable, whenever that might be.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Monday November 3rd, 2008 3:18:26 PM
OOC: Hi folks, I'm back from vacation. Thanks, Kelly, for subing for me. Glad to still be alive. :)
IC: Striding into camp all proud-like, Garth's words of several raids upon the new settlement puts Alexi back into the reality of their situation. There are others out here, surely it wasn't any of the Ahote that had done the raiding.
"Who were these raiders, what do they look like?" he asks.
Keela Monday November 3rd, 2008 5:25:09 PM
Blissfully unaware that she was expected to be anywhere else, Keela continues to catch up with her family.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) Monday November 3rd, 2008 6:56:24 PM
Striding beside the bulky warrior, Anrete nods and surveys the defense of the town.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday November 4th, 2008 12:30:05 AM
The party takes in the set up for the settlement as they work their way through the site. On their way to find the wagon master, Fatine locates the druid heading in the opposite direction. Tarketh volunteers that after surveying the settlement and its environs, he is of the opinion he, and the magical orb, belong with the farmers, just beyond the walls of the place. "You can join me when you are ready," he adds as with a gesture he indicates a place where the little brook is half hidden by a small hillock and some stubby willows, just upstream from where the Plainfields have claimed a plot, and Keela can be seen to be welcomed by her sister.
The wagon master listens to each of the party members, then lowers his head and listens intently to what Jet has to say. "'tis a good thing, the peace you have brokered with the natives, but I fear you will be hard pressed to garner much support from those who came before us to start up the mine." Drawing Alexi into his confidence he continues, " 'tis the natives they blame for the raids, though none were caught nor even seen. 'twas supplies and such that were pinched, and fires set."
Garth then addresses the group as a whole, "the security forces are in a sad state," he volunteers, explaining how most of those who volunteered to fill in after so many were lost in the bandit attack, have returned to their original calling--the mine, the farms, their trades. "Security for the settlement is of paramount importance," he adds sternly, "'an not a body can be spared to be chasin' some monster seen in a dream!" As if anticipating the fighter/cleric's protests, the wagon master adds that the party has done their part for now. Another group will be sent off to scout the surrounding area, and should be informed about the apparition, but for now the group remains in the settlement.
The group learns that any who signed on for security detail will be quartered and fed over at the barracks. The foundations having been built, it lacks the upper stories, but these will soon be constructed with lumber brought in with the caravan. A neat line of tents ranged behind the structure will serve as temporary apartments. Squads will provide security for the community, with each squad taking a turn to patrol and explore the environs beyond the community. Immediate assignments include time working on the construction of the barracks, and building up the stone wall and fortifications at the mouth of the gorge using rubble extracted from the mine. Caelnin is singled out for his understanding of wood and assigned to work on the barracks. "Mayhap you can teach those two," he adds signifying Anrete and Beren. "You two," he says, pointing an index at the fighters, "go find that farm wench. Though she might not join the security detail, draft her for reserve...Tarketh's girl too."
After being admonished that folks were supposed to pack according to what they thought they might need for the two year venture, Gareth indicates that the quartermaster at the mine carries some inventory and might have things to trade.
Caelnin finds Vilria, and all his gear safely stowed with the Plainfields. Alexi collects his gear from farmer Ned, who also transported anything else left by the group when they went off on their mission. Mikal's gear has been dropped off at the temple, the building nearest completion in the settlement.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20=7 ; Tuesday November 4th, 2008 6:05:40 AM
"What!?!! But, but I am a famed chef!! How can you ask a CHEF to do the work of a laborer!!??", Anrete exclaimed loudly, his painted face and spiked armor giving a very un-chef-like appearance.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al Tuesday November 4th, 2008 10:53:28 AM
"You not afeard o' dem comin' back to steal dee Orb again? Das a'right wit Fatine. You tink she safe, den Ol' Fatine, she happy wi'dat."
From the corner of her eye, Fatine spies the approach of the fighting god worshiper. With deliberate hands she smooths the lie of her skirt within her lap and then stands, concealing the slightest hint of a smile at the corner of her lips.
"Jet," without leave or warning, she takes his arm and begins a short stroll around the druid's wagon. "You no' come see Fatine? You best beware, Oh Man. You come 'round often enough, some wimmen dey gettin' da wrong idea." She punctuates her warning with a laugh, and then whirls away in a flurry of skirts and shawls.
"Darket' he inside, Oh Man. You g'wann in."
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Tuesday November 4th, 2008 12:42:59 PM
With a puzzled look at the witch, as expected, the unexpected had occured. Shaking his head with a smile, he knocks on the door to the wagon and when tarketh answers, he asks in a point blank statement. "Beren, one of the party guard detail has a curse upon him that won't allow him to heal. I have seen you do some pretty powerful stuff, out of my league. Are you able to remove curses?"
After waiting for a response from that he also speaks of the Ahote dream vision and asks what he believes it to mean?
Keela Tuesday November 4th, 2008 9:32:01 PM
If somebody proposed to Keela that she be a security reserve, she hesitantly accepts.
"You know," she says after a moment's thought, "it might be worthwhile to train some of the farmers in basic fighting techniques. Sort of a militia."
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday November 4th, 2008 10:22:47 PM
OOC: I meant to compile the list of loot from the bandit raid and have it checked during our trip and completely forgot to. I'll do it tonight.
IC: "Garth, if these raiders are from the Ahote, I would think the raids will stop. I sure hope they do, but we need to set a trap. The kind that captures the thieves. I'll come up with some ideas and bring them to you later."
After that Alexi goes looking for his tent. Picking one out, he stakes Lobo near it, then fetches Lupin. He thanks Ned for taking care of his stuff and tells Ned to hold on to his 'investment' in farming and mining equipement until later. He tells Ned that if the farmer agrees to be the 'shopkeeper' of his extra stuff, then the farmer will get a cut of the profit.
Next he goes to inspect the entrance better. Seeing the Plainfields near the entrance, he feels a bit concearned about their proximity to the entrance. He sees Keela and waves at her. Coming over to her he tells her everything that Garth had told them. "You need to be extra watchful here," he advises. "Also, you are still needed in our Security Forces, but not full time."
Keela mentions a militia and Alexi nods. "I've been thinking about that. Perhaps you could look for young ones that may take up to magic like you did and teach them the basics as well. A militia of warriors and wizards is a powerful thing."
Alexi then continues his survey. He talks to the people that have had things stolen. He asks for any details they can give and if anyone has trampled the areas to and from the affected wagons. Later he asks Beren to look at these areas for any clues.
After all that is done he goes back to his new 'home' and strips Lobo down and gives him a good brushing, pondering all the while what kind of traps to set.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 12:21:46 AM
Beren takes the instrruction for the security detail, and goes to find his quarters. When he is asked to help in construction, this too he will do to the best of his ability. When he has a chance, he will check over all his weapons, and excercise with his them, including more archery practice. he still wants to increase his speed and accuracy.
He takes his turn at guard, and works where needed, but does not volunteer for anything else at present.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday November 5th, 2008 12:24:49 AM Alexi worries about the raiders Jet worries about the monster from the vision Fatine worries about the Orb of Kalista while Anrete worries about his reputation...
The party members lay claim to some of the empty tents. It appears there are 2 cots in each, so they'll have to share. Just beyond the building that will be the barracks, is evidence of the start of some stables. A few horses are already tied up in the low stalls outlined with piled up stone.
Once gear is stored in the tents and horses settled in, individually or in small groups the party explores the burgeoning community. Despite the threats foremost in the mind of the members of the security detail, folks seem more concerned with the tasks of daily living. Folks seem bent on setting up some form of permanent shelter.
Between those already at the site, and the newcomers, the mine site has absorbed more than 100 miners-mostly dwarves, but some half orc labourers as well. The handful of mine administrators comes from various races. The housing near the mine workings doesn't account for the number though, so where are they all living? The farm families comprising some 70 individuals have scattered across the plains stretched out in front of the gorge. Those who brought lumber are seen framing structures, while others, predominantly Halflings, are busy creating sod homes on the rather flat terrain. Inside the gorge, behind the low rock wall, trades folk are busy claiming little plots of their own, and outlining the foundations of their homes in rock salvaged from the great pile excavated by the miners. Ma Belle seems to have established a rather ambitious design, but doesn't seem to be having any problem securing labourers to effect her plan. Pliny waves to the group, a hammer in hand, from his perch on a frame spanning the high rock foundations of the barracks. Several of the security detail work under his direction. Many other security folks are busy widening the low rock wall defences, and raising towers along the wall. Caelnen anticipates he will soon get to test the items in his special toolbox.
Alexi and Keela discuss the possibility of recruiting volunteers for a militia to supplement the security detail. As the fighter makes enquiries he finds some of the younger folk are interested. The older folk are more interested in getting their homes established and their seeds in the ground. From the few off duty miner types he learns most suspect the natives are responsible for the raids, though none had been caught, let alone let folks get close to them. The fact that the security detail has brokered a peaceful agreement, doesn't impress the hardened folk who have already spent half a year at the site.
Tarketh acquiesces to Jet's request, but doubts he can do much for the cursed elf. "Seeds and roots for a physic garden will eventually provide ingredients for powerful medicines." Placing a hand on the intense young man's shoulder, he continues, "your desire to help a friend shows that your heart is true, but you must learn patience. It will take time to raise the plants and collect their harvest. Some will not yield their bounty until the second year of their growing." The druid adds, "I will not forget your request, however, you must promise me that should you ever borrow my assistant again for one of your quests, you will return her intact!"
Those within earshot of the barbarian do not take his claim to fame seriously, but his loud exclamation draws the attention of the barrack's cook working at the outdoor kitchen. Pointing to a large barrel of apples recently offloaded from one of the caravan wagons, the cook then points to a box of knives. "Make yerself useful then. Don't ferget to keep the peels and cores fer the compost."
(OOC: Should have a map of the community available soon!-DM Carla)
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Wednesday November 5th, 2008 6:25:20 AM
Caelnin excited about the buildings that are being build around him can't wait to get started and learn about carpentry. "A step down from bow making, but crafting none-the-less" Caelnin says as he dismounts and finds the Plainfields with his precious Vilria and wagon.
He greets Vilria with a big hug and a pat on the head and then he rummages through the stuff in the wagon to find the antique-looking box, opening it slowly to finds pristine bow-making tools lying on a purple velvet and under his breath says "This can't do... Let's close it up again...."
The next time that he opens it, he finds heavier and chunkier tools, like a saw with a very sharp blade and a big hammer that tends to hit it's mark, yet as light as a feather. He practices for a while with his new found tools on pieces of scrap wood and heads off to the barracks where his help was asked for first.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 9:27:53 AM
Beren asks Caelnin if he would care to share a tent. Once settled in, he assists wherever he is needed. Even when discarding his cloak, and baring his arms for some of the labor, his mask stays in place.
He makes sure Red is adequately stabled as well, and brings him what treats he can find for the big horse to add to his diet.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al d20+2=3 ; d20+9=24 ; Wednesday November 5th, 2008 11:59:27 AM
The witch rises to wave as Jet exits the wagon of the herbalist druid. She watches until he passes out of sight. Not all witches are women. But within all women there is at least a small piece that is a witch.
After the man's departure, she raises a hand to shield her eyes and she survey's the stone strewn land. The impression is of hard craggy rock from which life rises at the sufferance of precious trickles of water. Could this be a place to live?
"What you tink o' dis place, Boss?" Fatine wanders in with an idle question. "You tin' we can really build a town in dis place? What you tin' o' dis lan'? She gonn' grow for us? She gonn' be co'd come Winner? You hab dee sight for dis, I know. Wha' dee clime like here?" (Survival 3)
After speaking to Tarketh, Fatine goes out to scour the nearby area for items that she might use in alchemical creations. (Craft Alchemy 24)
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 8:51:58 PM
Alexi returns to his tent after his survey of the outpost. His inquiries led to nothing more that he already had heard and needs time to think. He plops down on his bunk and lays back. He wonders who his tent mate will be having seen Beren talking to Caelnin. He thinks about Jet, then about Anrete, then about Mikal, then about... heh, pushes THAT idea out of his mind quickly. He figures Anrete will just sleep outside and away, as he's done the whole trip, and Mikal will probably prefer to stick close to the priests, so he thinks on asking Jet if he's found a bunk mate yet.
While searching for Jet he ponders how to catch the thieves and thinks he's come up with an idea. After finding Jet and proposing they bunk together, and then goes looking for Garth.
When he finds Garth he proposes the use of one of the mildly damaged wagons from the bandit raid, loaded with some stuff, as a decoy. Placed on the outside, away from the others, the canvas cover can be rigged to close and entrap anyone inside. (OOC: I'm picturing a Canastoga wagon). A hidden second floor can be rigged so that one or two people can hide underneath the wagon and off the ground. Others can be hidding nearby behind stuff, a pile of rocks, some bushes, etc.
When the two in the hidden floor hear noise in the wagon, they pull ropes to close the front and back of the wagon while the others come running. The inside floor of the wagon will be coated with flour to insure footprints. If Fatine, Tarketh, Keela, or any of the priests had any magic they can use to cause the interlopers to glow, that would be very helpful.
Alexi says his idea can be expounded upon or modified if Garth sees any flaws or has a better idea.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Wednesday November 5th, 2008 10:21:06 PM
Jet thanks Tarketh for what little he could, but as to making a promise, "Sorry sir, I don't make promises. Sometimes, the choice of life and death is out of the hands of mortals, but anyone that rides with me, will have the same chance at living as another. I'll do the best I can to make sure we all make it back." he sends Fatine a friendly wave back her way as he goes to find his wine skin and perhaps get drunk by himself for a while.
Jet avoids the priestly tents for now. His mind wanders about life and death. Good and Evil. Law and Chaos. How they are all spokes keeping a wagons wheel in a proper round circle, allowing it to roll with..........
Then enters Alexi. AH CRAP, THERE GOES MY FIRST CHANCE AT BEING ALONE UP IN SMOKE Jet grouses in his mind as the regimented soldier sits down and asks him if they want to bunk up. Jet rubs his face and passes the valuable warrior his skin so they can chat. "Did you get Lollena her fabric back to her yet so she can use what's left?" is what he uses as an opener.
"Look bud, I don't dislike you, but you have a tendency to piss me off." He takes back the skin, takes a long pull and passes it back to Alexi in a sharing of words and drink. "You know, despite the fact that you have yet to follow any one of my commands, in how I tell you to attack Wido or how to take the lone rider coming over the hill when he saw you, or how to flank archers when the wagon was attacked. What would your commanders back where you came from, have done for you disobeying orders, eh? I get the feeling you think you know how to fight better then I do and perhaps a little jealous you were not given the standard. So perhaps, your just pushing my buttons, seeing how far you can get before I lose my temper with you? Maybe you don't have respect for me?"
He takes another long drink before he continues, "So to be honest with you, I don't care what you do any more. When it comes to a fight, just do whatever it is you think is best, just like everyone else, because it seems to be working so far and I'll do what I usually do, which is go after what I think is the biggest, boldest opponent we face, or cut my way through whatever stands in front of them until I reach them."
Yet another long drink, it is apparent, Jet is venting after having had many drinks before Alexi arrives, "As for bunking with you, I don't think you can stand it? I'm a slob. I throw my stuff down where I want, I bathe when I feel like it and I'll be damned if I'm gonna be giving some password just to enter my own tent, so if you want to bunk with me, I'm alright with that. Like I said I don't dislike you and I see a ton of potential within you, but I do what I want, when I want, however I want to, unless that contract I signed is involved, then I'm all business." As his finger staggers from left to right until it finds the mark of Pantheon upon his tabard.
He reaches up and pats Bantom on the flank, "As for tonight, I think I'll just stay right here until I pass out, so if you find a tent that's empty and you want to save me a bunk, I'd be honored, if I see you have another to bunk with in the morning I won't be offended. Regardless, we are a team and if you have something you want to say to me, get it off your chest, I think you know me well enough by now, pretty words have little sway over me."
In anticipation of that skin being empty, he reaches into bantoms pack and grabs another and opens it before giving Alexi his chance at words.
OOC: Hey all, of course, this is all in good fun. Jet is just venting and this will likely be my last post for a few days. I go in for surgery tomorrow and will be recovering over the weekend.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+7=14 ; Thursday November 6th, 2008 12:23:11 AM
His pale war paint barely hiding his purpling face, Anrete glared at the barrel of apples and back at the cook, before pounding forward, his dull grayish dagger in his hand. "ME me! Slicing APPLES??!!"
Giving the cook his meanest glare, Anrete proceeds to peel the apples as he grumbles about the injustice.
===================================== Cooking 14
DM Bob & Carla Thursday November 6th, 2008 12:30:12 AM (Sorry in advance for the long post...)
The end of the first day in Bryn Baraz draws to a close. There is relief for some, as they settle in. For others there is a whole new set of worries. And, for yet others, it is an opportunity to let it all hang out...
It doesn't take Caelnin long to find use and purpose in the community as he sets to work on the timber framing of what will soon be his and his companions new home. His innate understanding of wood, gleaned from his efforts at learning the bowyer's craft, and his unique tool-set ensure a quick learning curve. Pliny and the other carpenters are quick to acknowledge his skill, and assign him a small band of unskilled labourers to supervise and mentor. Beren encounters his friend and ally at the worksite, and invites him to share accommodations. When it is too dark to work, the smell of stew and cooked apples draws the elvish pair to the mess area.
After a survey of the area, Alexi's mind remains pre-occupied by the threat of raiders. He shares his concern with Garth, and proposes a plan to trap any outsiders who might have plans on the settlement. The wagon master rubs his chin thoughtfully, and then has a frank conversation with the man pointing out that the raids were on a relatively undefended mining encampment of less than 100 individuals. Now swollen by twice that many new settlers, including a security detail, anyone trying to steal supplies or sabotage the encampment would be a fool. Garth does not entirely discount the ex-Fist's concerns however. "I don't figure you're the type to volunteer for haulin' rocks and such while the settlement gets established, so how about when you're not pulling security detail yourself you supervise the fitness and training of the security forces." Garth becomes very enthusiastic when Alexi shares his and Keela's idea to recruit volunteers for a militia. "The girl's got a good head on her shoulders. Get her to help you get up a list of volunteers, and let me know what you might need to train 'em up right."
Alexi's efforts are not as successful with Jet. The shaggy haired young man gives vent to his frustrations. Perhaps it is the let down of having achieved their destination or disappointment at being unable to help the cursed ranger. Perhaps it is the liquor. Waiting to see if his harsh words have alienated the one who has become his right hand man, the fighter/cleric seeks solace of a liquid nature, and seems prepared to spend the night alone.
"Questions are good!" solicits Tarketh, when the witch enquires about the qualities of the area. "Soil is a complex mixture of diverse ingredients, containing all the nutrients that sustain life on earth." The druid crouches and scratches up a handful of soil. Opening his hand to Fatine he continues, "particles of rock and minerals, organic material, water, air, insects, worms, and fungi all work together. Dig down several feet and you will uncover a series of layers that will tell you the story of this land--and predict what might grow in this place!" Before Fatine heads off exploring, Tarketh confirms that most of their time in the coming days will be spent preparing the soil and planting the seeds and rootstock they have brought with them. A few interesting rock specimens make their way into the witch's pockets.
**********
The coming days are a blur of activity from sunrise to sunset. Those signed on to provide security for the community are given a schedule of regular shifts during which they are assigned either a day long patrol on horseback through the farming area beyond the immediate vicinity of Bryn Baraz, a night shift stalking the outer wall of the settlement, or else other duties in the community with the ability to respond to an emergency if required. Caelnin and Beren are encouraged to apply themselves to construction of the barracks, stables, and outbuildings making up the soldiers compound. Anrete, despite an inauspicious beginning seems to have endeared himself to the cook. Mikal is set to work in the temple, organizing the infirmary, school, and areas of worship. Alexi is occupied with all things military. Jet wrestles with his demons.
Fatine works beside her master, performing the hard work of digging the soil over, staking out rows and plots, planting seeds and rootstocks, and hauling water from the nearby stream. Mid-way through the first week, a crew of Halflings arrive and set to work digging a burrow in the hill by the stream, building up the roof with sod. On the final day, having finished by whitewashing the interior, they depart happily with a crate of rootstock for grapes.
A little farther down along the stream Keela gets about the work of helping her family at the Plainfield homestead.
(OOC: The rest of this week will be about getting the settlement built up and routines established. You can range up and down the time line with general statements, or with specific enquiries. Most of the time will be allocated to the immediates of getting the community settled, but there will be some small amount of personal time. Post what you think your character will do, and I'll try to weave it all together while providing information on the development of the settlement.-DM Carla)
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al Thursday November 6th, 2008 10:34:27 AM
All that time spent traveling, and now they're here. They're here. What now? Seated outside Tarketh's wagon, Fatine takes in the land. Cloud and Shadow lie nearby upon the ground still warm from the afternoon's sun. Fatine's eyes look out over the landscape and into the future.
Got to have some place to live. Some place for herself and the dogs. The witch briefly wonders what Tarketh will do now that he's here. Build a house? Or continue to live in his wagon, moving about the valley as need arises. She considers moving into the new town settlement before rejecting the idea. Maybe, but not before exploring the rest of the land.
The next day Fatine seeks out Beren.
"Fatine t'inkin' o' makin' a home, mebe somewhere nearby. Lotta country out dere," she says to the ranger and scout. "But Fatine, she don wan get los'. She don know where dee bes' place to build no house. Ol' Fatine, she wonder if you he'p her fin' a place?"
(OOC: Sorry! Re-read DM post and noticed I wasn't clear regarding the Halfling-made burrow made for the druid (who 'paid' the builders with rootstock for grapes!?) and his assistant-DM Carla)
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Thursday November 6th, 2008 12:46:48 PM
Berem continues in his daily routine of work and training. Occassionally he ventures out to explore the country side, but otherwise, he sticks to the settlement.
Keela Thursday November 6th, 2008 5:18:52 PM
The secruity detail had been intersting while it lasted, but now Keela is back with her family, performing her familiar chores in the unfamiliar place.
Of course, she is now a "reserve" for the security group, which as far as she can tell, means "back to your chores, farm-girl; we'll call you if by some chance we happen to need you."
Her family, she realizes, doesn't really need her either, though they seem to like having her around. She falls into her familiar routine of minding the children so that Senna and Daben can go about their work. After a day or so, she starts minding the little neighbor girl, too, so that her parents can work. Then a brother and sister join the little group, then a couple more kids, and before she quite realizes what's happening, Keela finds herself tending a small flock of youngsters each day. Unable to sustain eight or ten solid hours of playtime, she starts devoting a few hours each day to lessons--teaching the little ones their letters and urging the older ones to study whatever instructive books may come to hand.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Thursday November 6th, 2008 6:54:28 PM
Caelnin accepts Beren's request. "It's not like we are going to be in there for long anyway each night, but it's nice to know that someone is there if something bad happens..."
"If I focus on the job at hand, I will have more time later on to do the stuff that I want to do which takes a lot more time and effort." Caelnin thinks to himself as he hammers away at barracks. He has been working non-stop, except for the times where he has to eat and time to keep his mind from straying from the job.
During one of his breaks, he goes off to Garth and asks "Will there be a blacksmith or weaponry shop somewhere in the village? If there is, do you know who is going to be the person in charge?"
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Thursday November 6th, 2008 8:33:38 PM
Alexi starts to take a drink and nearly spits it out! The banner! How could he forget to give that back? Alexi quickly hands the skin back to Jet, aiming to do just that but the cleric-fighter wasn't through. As Jet spills his frustrations, Alexi steps back, almost aghast at the rant, but he notices the skin nearly empty and deduces the obvious: that the strain of the past few months now gone, Jet is venting and it was best just let him get it all out.
As Jet fumbles in Bantoms saddle bags for another skin, Alexi laughs to himself that perhaps Fatine would be a better bunk-mate, but decides to keep those thoughts to himself as not to give any more fuel to the fire.
"You done? Good, 'cause I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to go on a few more hours. You didn't ask for leadership but you took it anyway. At first, perhaps, I was jealous, but that didn't last long. Perhaps I grew a little carefree being away from the Regiment. The Regimental Captain was a very harsh leader and because of that his orders were followed exaclty to the smallest detail. When a hundred horsemen are trained to maneuver together, orders are easier to follow. When everyone splits into their own battle tactics, orders are not easy to follow. Things happen. One reacts to his best abilities. MInd you, I saved Fatine's dog while flanking the leader down the slope. And Mikal probably is glad I showed up when I did."
Taking a pause he continued, "But that is all past. Perhaps the leaderhsip structure will change now that we work in a much larger group. Perhaps not. For now, at least, you still are the Banner Carrier and I'll do better in following orders. Garth has respect for you, and that's good enough for me. And since he expects us to be good examples, I'll still stand beside you, as the others will too I'm sure, if you still want to lead us."
Alexi starts to leave then turns back again. "I've got a tent with an extra bunk. If you are sobber enough to find it in the morning, fine, otherwise it will be a nice quiet night for me. And by the way, if you get stinking too much, Fatine won't have you around her place much." Laughing, he finishes with, "She'd probably conspire with Tarketh to come up with something so awful to squirt you with that even you wouldn't be able to stand yourself and you'd be forced to enjoy a skinny dip in the cold stream."
(OOC: reminds me of a MASH episode where Hawkeye and BJ were trying to see who could go the longest without a bath. They both got a good dunking by the whole camp. :)
Alexi leaves Jet to his drink and musings, not knowing if the priest will be able to retain anything he just said.
(OOC: Alexi takes it all in in good humor. Best of whishes on your surgery. Post when you can, but only when not under the influence of painkillers. :)
Alexi frowns as Garth gently rejects his idea of trapping the purpetrators of the raids on the supplies. 'Well,' he muses, 'TIme wil tell.' But he does cheer up that Garth likes Keela and his idea of a militia. "Well, I'll haul rocks as necessary, but I would prefer to be out excercising the troops. I will go through the camp and get names of those interested in sword fighting and those interested in mounted combat. I'll devide them up in groups such that no one has to do any training in addition to their regular work. I'll ...," and Alexi pauses in his planning as he sees Garth's eyes glaze over.
"Yeah, I'll get back with you." Then he heads back to his tent.
Later: When the mess bell rings Alexi heads to the mess area and is shocked to see Anrete dishing out food. "Anrete?! Well whatya know." Alexi takes the food and carefully tastes it first, watching the others down theirs before digging in.
The week: Alexi divides his time among a dozen things. He first takes the names of all able-bodied men and women that want to be part of a militia. He then takes an inventory of all available weapons and lists them alongside the names of the volunteers as he sees the best fit. He also tries to gather up as many long poles as he can for making pikes or spears.
He divides the volunteers up into groups of similar weapon types, then he divides each of these up according to their work schedule and alots about two hours of training per week for each group. He asks Beren and Caelnin to help with training the archers and Jet with training the others. He sees Keela getting busier by the day with a horde of children and wonders if she will be able to single out any that may take to magic for arcane training.
During the course of the days, while taking Lupin out for warhorse training, he notices Fatine lugging water from the stream to the new herb garden. He rides up to her and follows alongside her for a bit then sugests, "You could probably find a better way to bring water to your garden. Why not have a ditch dug from the stream to the garden? If Tarketh aproves, I can arrange that."
Alexi also takes the few things they gathered from the bandit raid and tries to have them identified. He asks Keela and Fatine to go with him as he takes the stuff Beren found on the sorceress to the temple and asks if they can tell him what they are. The items are: a pair of bracers, a wooden stick 10" in length, 2 small vials, 2 rolled parchments, a well crafted dagger.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Thursday November 6th, 2008 8:46:29 PM
Addendum 2: After supper the fist night, Alexi takes the white 'flag' to Lolenna's camp and returns it. He deeply appologizes for any mischap that it may have suffered, explaining, "we had just reached the top of the plateau when this huge dust devil took us by surpise! We couldn't believe how it whipped us around!" Then he relates their encounter with the Ahote but leaves out the part of the dream. No point in worrying anyone any more than necessary.
DM Bob & Carla Friday November 7th, 2008 1:24:50 AM
The transformation on the environs is rapid as many hands make light work. A crew of dwarves from the mine donate their time and skills and the temple is soon complete. Next to be finished is the barracks, thanks to Caelnin, Beren, and the other carpenters. With the tents stored, there is now room for training manoeuvres. Next are workshops for the trades' folk including a forge and smithy. Anrete finds he is welcomed by the cooks. The builders know what side their bread is buttered on, and soon a cafeteria, kitchen, and storage larders are completed and filled with goods brought in by the caravan. Due to the fair weather, the cook favours the dome shaped outdoor ovens for most of the cooking.
Beyond the stone wall, with its four watchtowers, the land claimed by the farmers has become a quilt of tilled fields dotted with burrows, sod homes, squat stone cottages, and a few wooden structures.
It is late spring and a little late for the planting of crops. None the less, the farmers work diligently to get their seeds into the ground. Survival/Knowledge Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { to those familiar with the natural cycle, it appears that what has been planted by the farmers is germinating much more quickly than what is normal. Many of the burrows and sod homes are sprouting tender green grass shoots where only a week before there had been mud and bare earth.}
Farm children flock to Keela, drawn by the happy sounds generated by the Plainfield kids. Apologetic parents are put at ease by the young woman's easy ways, and the grateful farmwives are glad to join their men in the field. Keela's selfless offering up of her time generates a lot of good will, and a few small gifts--a half dozen eggs, a ribbon, a skein of nubby grey wool.
Tarketh shows Fatine the inside of the barrow he commissioned. "I have no worries for the rootstock. I have never known a Halflling to fail at gardening when it comes to growing something that will eventually find its way to their stomache! The grapevines were a fair trade for their labour" The inside of the barrow is one big room with a large hearth jutting out from one wall. "A string fastened to the corner---there, and to the wall---there, with a cloth draped over will give you some privacy. " The druid explains that he plans to break down the wagon and recycle the parts for furniture, and a small cart. The horse will be boarded with a neighbouring farmer.
Alexi listens to Jet's diatribe and decides to bunk elsewhere figuring the standard bearer is going on a tear. So busy is the ex-Fist in the days that follow, that there is no time for piling rocks. His reasonable demands of 2 hours training per week ensure a good turnout of volunteers for the militia, and his sympathetic arrangements of the regular force meets with universal approval. The young man's organizational skills are rewarded by Garth, who loads him down with half a dozen leather bound ledgers and a pile of scrolls. "Everything's got to be documented, lad" he says with a bracing slap on the back, "an yer the one to do it!"
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Friday November 7th, 2008 8:38:16 AM
Beren is grateful when the barracks are finished.
SInce Alexi is training a militia, Anthos goes back to giving his lessons on archery to any interested. He had quite a few young men starting to come along well before, perhaps they can inprove even more now that they are settled.
As more free time is made available, as different buildings are completed, Anthos carefully scouts further afield, always letting someone know where he is going and about when he should be back.
Caelnin makes an amiable bunk mate, but he still wishes for the solitude of the forest.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] - Sub/Al Friday November 7th, 2008 1:05:24 PM
The halfling-built barrow seems, in it's way, appropriate. Fatine emerges to walk a few hundred paces distant and look back at how the new home sets in the land around it.
Then, satisfied in that, the witch continues in her stroll about the area, scouting out places nearby where an alchemist's laboratory might be set up. A loosely built shack might be best, some structure with plenty of ventilation.
Alexi takes the ledgers and scrolls and is perplexed! 'Where am I going to put all this?' "Er, uhm, I can't store all this in the barracks, Garth. I'm going to need an office. With your permission, can I have an add-on to the barrakcs built big enough for me to store these and and a desk and chair to work on?"
Gasping under the weight of the stuff, he asks one more thing. "Can we dig a ditch from the stream to Tarketh's garden? It would only need to be two feet wide and one foot deep. We can lay left over planks that aren't usable to bridge the ditch for the wagons and such."
If Garth gives the ok for both requests, he commissions Pliny to draw up plans for an office added to the barracks with a door to the barracks and a door to the outside, and a chimney for warmth. He also commissions shelves for the ledgers and a good sized desk with chair. He also ask around for anyone with a good eye and cartography skills to start making a map of the area.
He then makes use of his militia-in-training to dig the ditch and line it with rocks. He has Pliny make a gate mechanism at the stream end of the ditch so water can be diverted to the herb garden when needed and closed off when not needed.
OOC: any word on the items to be identified and the cost to do so?
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Saturday November 8th, 2008 1:17:26 AM
Finding the time to help out with the training of the archers of the group, he does get annoyed at the people that are just there and not taking as seriously as they should, as it is like learning an art form to Caelnin. He keeps his gripes silent about the people that aren't fairing too well in archery and goes on with teaching the ones that have potential. Caelnin also trains at the same time, honing his skills as a bowman trying to figure out new ways to use his arrows and to sharpen his senses.
After each training session, he goes off to help the smithys and blacksmiths out by helping build their workshops, as he would like to use them if he had the chance to. Being able to use his special group of tools he gets excited at any chance to use them, finding crafting as enjoyable than shooting arrows.
He also tries and make a much simple weapons as possible during the free time that he has for the training that Alexi has planned. "Spears and pikes aren't too much of a hassle" Caelnin says as he starts to work on weaponry.
As Caelnin is creating all these things, he thinks to himself "Maybe I'm only doing this because I have missed crafting anything so much on the trip... Could stay up all night doing it, only if I didn't burn out..."
Keela d20+11=27 ; d20+11=29 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+11=24 ; d20+11=20 ; d20+11=15 ; d20+11=18 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=22 ; Sunday November 9th, 2008 12:21:58 PM
When Alexi asks about identifying the items, Keela shakes her head regretfully. "I don't know the Identify spell, which would tell us exactly what everything is," she says. "I can try to figure it out in general terms, though."
She casts Detect Magic on the items, concentrating on each in turn to try to determin the school of magic involved in their creation.
When that is completed, she takes a second look at the vials, this time applying what she knows of Alchemy to see if she can figure out what they are. [Craft (Alchemy) checks of 12 and 22.]
Finally, she gestures toward the parchments (if they detected as magic). "I don't have it prepared today, but if you like I can prepare a Read Magic spell to cast tomorrow. That should enable me to read the scrolls without actually releasing the magic they contain."
Meanwhile, Keela continues to be busy with her little school and baby-minding service. She and the kids rove all over the growing town, stopping now and then at a picturesque spot to rest and do a few lessons.
She is not really watching for magical talent, because as far as she knows, these kids are too young to show it. She herself was apprenticed at the age of 12. Kids that old are helping their parents build their homes and sow their fields; Keela is watching their younger siblings. Besides, she's not really sure what she would be looking for.
She finds the task surprisingly enjoyable, though, and she is secretly very proud of being able to earn a little extra to help the family.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Sunday November 9th, 2008 5:22:23 PM
Alexi watches as Keela uses her skills to see if she can figure out the items. Always amazed at magic, he watches eagerly. "That's marvelous!" he comments as she goes through the motions.
"Oh, no hurry. Keep the scrolls for now and see what you can find out tomorrow. I'll come back by."
Glancing over the horde of children, he ponders out loud, "Any chance these young ones have the nack for magic?" he asks. "They are young, but I heard that finding the magic skills in a person is not quite like finding the warrior skills. A child has to grow, develop, become strong, before any fighting skills can be tested."
Pondering a moment he then adds, "Perhaps in your teaching, you can use some of your easy magic, like how you always seem clean and fresh despite the days in the saddle. If a child has the ability, even if they don't know it, perhaps you will be able to see it in their eyes as they watch and learn? Could you take an hour a week for some basics for those older ones that act interested? I'll also keep an eye out in my group for any that may not fit the warrior type but still want to be a part of the defense. I can send them your way if they want to try magic, Anrete's way if they want to try stealth."
DM Bob & Carla Sunday November 9th, 2008 6:20:53 PM
Map of Bryn Baraz
The transformation on what appeared to be nothing but rocky land with low growing grass, and scrubby bushes is nothing short of amazing. Crops are sprouting everywhere as seeds germinate seemingly overnight and rootstock leaf out and send new shoots reaching for the bright sun overhead. Survival/Knowledge Nature DC 15 all, or Fatine, Keela and Alexi Spot DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { to discern that the growth is most vigorous around the druid's small allotment, and spreading out to benefit all the farmers, and beyond.} It won't be long before the first green salads can be picked.
Tents have disappeared from the farmland and the settlement alike, as all now have a proper roof overhead. The mystery of where the mine site workforce resides has also been solved. As miners mix with the townsfolk, it is learned that preferring the stony deeps, the dwarven workforce have created many of their homes in the workings of the mine itself!
Alexi is assigned a desk in the same room in the Barracks where Garth and one other record the events of the settlement and draw maps of Bryn Baraz and environs. The fighter is charged with documenting all things related to the volunteers. Having discharged his primary duty by getting the settlers safely from Floating City to their destination, Garth now occupies himself with the running of the security detail. He keeps the same squads arranged for the caravan, supplementing those that were decimated in the bandit attack with the few farmers' sons and daughters who showed more of an inclination for magics and weapons, than farming. Beren, Caelnin, and Alexi find these recruits anxious to learn anything the skilled bowmen and fighter can teach them. Progress with the militia is slower, however.
From time to time, Garth is visited by folks from the mine site. Dwain Stonehelm, dwarven adventurer and principal owner of Stonehelm Mining and Exploration is recognizable from his recruiting speeches in Floating City, but the others, supervisors and engineers must have arrived with the first group of development miners that preceded the settlers.
After a fortnight, the first group sent on long range patrol returns. After dropping the carcasses of two large creatures at the kitchens, they make a report of sightings of wildlife, but deny any encounters with the nomadic natives, or any fire breathing monsters for that matter. A second patrol is sent out to do their duty. Beren is disappointed to learn that landscape is much as they found it after traversing the mountains--arid, dominated by grasses and scrublands with large plains bisected by deep and convoluted canyons and ravines that twist and turn and intertwine in expansive networks.
**********
Manoeuvres have just ended, with Keela and Fatine having joined their comrades on the training grounds under the watchful eyes of Garth, Col, Shadow, and Cloud. The former wagon master has a brief word with each squad before sending them off for the noon meal. Just as he's turning to the group, there is a cacophony of voices--screeching and raised voices come from somewhere on the other side of the settlement. The noise sounds like it's coming from Mama Belle's place, but the line of sight is blocked by the temple. "Better go see what that's all about," says Garth, rolling his eyes.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=21 ; d20+3=5 ; d20+7=11 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+1=13 ; Sunday November 9th, 2008 11:35:15 PM
At dawn, the barbarian frequently unwraps his chains and practice his martial skills against imaginery foes, out at the outskirt of the settlement, before returning to the cook house to help in the preparation of the day's meal.
When time permits, Anrete also ranges out to hunt for wild games to supplement the stores.
And during the evening, the moody human entertains the few children in the settlement with some sleight of hand before ending it with a wild tribal dance he learnt from his deceased half-orc companion.
============================================ Survival 21 Survival 5 (Hunting) Cooking 11 Sleigh of Hand 15
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+7=10 Monday November 10th, 2008 5:38:25 AM
On his morning after his drinking, he wakes up with the sun in his eyes and Bantom relieving himself nearby. Jet is glad the horse likes him and doesn't have as sence of humor or he would have to clean himself up in a much more embarrassing manner.
Now that they are at Bryn Baraz, Jet does not believe Garth is any longer in charge. Someone else must have started this movement and kept it going, and it is to them, he goes and introduces himself, with the help of Garth to find the individuals involved.
He also explains the situation with the three captives, taken during the attempted robbery of the trains "possession". He wants to know what is to be done with them, if anything. he also wonders if there is a priest to other less popular gods here, such as Flower, Ffloy or Pantheon and offers his services to those inclined to follow those edicts or need of sermons in their regard as well as taking care of the duties of what a small village would call sheriff or constable, not really knowing much about planting fields and such. Not a lot of time to learn that growing up in the city living out of dumpsters.
Jet of course, gets to know all those that are the brewers and alchemists of the community. He expresses his interests in both and explains he has brought along his own alchemical equipment that he will set up in a safe location. Hopefully near their own, if they are not insulted, so that he may learn from them as he to begins his skill.
With all of this, he allows those that own his contract to decide his duties for the community, since he has a more diverse set of skills as well as wider range of spiritual options.
He does not look down on the priests of single gods like Mikal. he knows that some are drawn to specific facets of faith, ideas and beliefs, but he is glad he is more flexible then most of the others.
Survival: 10
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Monday November 10th, 2008 9:43:08 AM
OOC-- No DM note to respond to. Will check in later
(Sorry! Posted map and action last night but forgot to reveal it. Sorry! Sorry! *slaps forehead*-DM Carla )
Keela Monday November 10th, 2008 10:31:20 PM
Upon hearing the commotion, Keela takes a moment to make sure her wands are securely tucked into her belt before following her companions to investigate.
[OOC: Keela respectfully reminds the DMs of her Spellcraft rolls from yesterday. :D ]
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+1=13 ; d20+7=25 ; d20+1=18 ; Monday November 10th, 2008 11:47:28 PM
Spot DC15 d20+1=13 :P OOC: good point Jet, I'd completely forgotten about the captives. :}
OOC: I don't know if it is relevant, but Alexi will need to know the total number in the militia, then how many archers. Presumably all those not archers are footsoldiers. All footsoldiers will be trained and equiped with spears w/ metal points if possible, otherwise just fire-hardened points. Alexi has Craft Longspear so he can help there: Craft d20+7 = 25
Alexi is beside himself when he's shown a desk in Garth's office. In the Fist he never would have thought he'd enjoy this due to all the work and little reward, but he sees the folk improving in their skills despite all the other work they have to do. He wished the militia could keep in formation better and he cringes when a spear swings dangerously around, but so far no injuries that Jet or Mikal could not fix. And what could he expect with only 2 hours a week of training?
He is very pleased, thought, with those that showed greater promise and joined the Security Force on a full time basis. He spends time with them to train them with sword and shield, and how to keep the shields together for better protection. For these, he also starts looking for suitable horses, althought he knows it will be a long time before they are ready for horsemanship training. He closely scrutinzes those that seem wiry and nimble, and asks Anrete if he can teach them some of his 'tricks'.
Alexi, who trains the troops from the vantage of Lobo so he can see better what the back rows are doing, sits relaxed in the saddle listening to Garth when the noise errups.
OOC: I count approximately 70ft to the other side of the watertower.
"C'mon Lobo, let's see what's up!" he says as he nudges lobo into a lope (double move to just around the watertower with some 30ft to spare in the dbl move and Spot d20+1= 18)
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=14 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+7=27 ; Tuesday November 11th, 2008 3:43:48 AM
OOC: No idea why my prev post appeared after the DM's post.
IC: Shadowing behind one of the bulkier warriors, Anrete proceeds to investigate the noise with his javelin readied. ========================================= Spot 14 Listen 7 Hide 27 (Keeping a low profile so that even if the group bum into an encounter, Anrete will not be spotted immediately)
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20=1 ; d20=8 ; d20=20 ; d20=16 ; d20=15 ; Tuesday November 11th, 2008 6:32:41 AM
Still at the training ground with his bow to show how to use it in combat, Caelnin moves up to see what is happening at Mama Belle's with bow still in hand with a quiver full of arrows.
OOC: I do not know how the rolls appeared there... They are of no importance...
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=12 ; d20+9=14 ; Tuesday November 11th, 2008 9:21:56 AM
Beren does not hear the commotion, having just come in fromoutside the camp. He does seem to notice some people riding off in one direction, but doesn't really give it any notice unless he is called directly.
He is amazed at how much improvement a little practioce can give to their few archers. He can even tell that he is getting better day by day. Perhaps soon his speed will increase even more. Until then, practice is the key, and he continues on as he has.
spot 14, listen 12 (rolled listen first to see if he heard the commotion)
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Tuesday November 11th, 2008 11:34:57 AM
Jet having an idea of what the problem is, gets bantom ready to go chasing bandits, then goes to the kitchens were the outburst has come from.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor d20+11=26 ; Tuesday November 11th, 2008 4:12:50 PM
Fatine quickly grabs a wand while she heads toward the noise. She taps herself with it. [mage armor]
Calling a sharp command to the dogs, she continues moving toward the noise (as far as permitted to go, but not beyond her companions).
She waves at Col and points in the same direction. "Fly, bird. See what dee trouble be."
LOG ON