DM Bob and Carla d6=1 ; Tuesday November 18th, 2008 11:55:01 PM
The horses seem glad of the trip, even the one horse Garth saw fit to spare at Jet's request. The adventurer's moods lift as well, as they are perhaps glad of the break from the confines of the little community. Jet reminds everyone to keep their Ahote tokens about their neck in case they run into any from that tribe.
Conscious of their mission to locate sources or water, food, and wood, and perhaps most importantly, locate the missing hunting party led by the one name Clemso, the group keep their eyes peeled for anything unusual as they head south.
Keen eyes take in the changes on the landscape since their arrival at Bryn Baraz. Spring and the Orb of Kalista have wrought their magic in the flat area where the farmers have staked their claims. The new crops create a patchwork of green across the landscape. Once the party moves beyond the farmlands, they notice the effect of the orb is still at work. Where once there was scrubby brush, there are now low growing green bushes, and the grasses grow taller and greener. Fatine locates some low growing trailing plants with white flowers that match one of her cards. She collects a few samples, roots and all, carefully packaging them for transport.
Alexi suggests the group spread out a little, and there is no reason not too as there is no real path to follow, but the one the party decides to make.
Nearing the end of the day the group reach the mouth of the familiar canyons they first passed on their way to Bryn Baraz. The scouts, notice the tell tale tracks of a small group of hooved animals crossing their path from east to west. The trail is old, but the animals are moving in the direction the group has been asked to explore.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+3=20 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=12 ; Wednesday November 19th, 2008 9:19:23 AM
Beren easily sees the tracks of a small group of animals, and drops to the ground to see if he recognizes what type of animal it is. (knowledge -nature 20) Once that is determined, he climbs back into the saddle on Red, and continues to look for any other signs or tracks he might find.
His bow rides at the ready, but he rides casually along. There has not been much to see so far.
spot 14 listen 12
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=8 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+3=21 ; Wednesday November 19th, 2008 10:06:04 AM
Still in his usual position of the formation, Anrete pauses cautiously as he tries to read the tracks. "Food?"
================================== Spot 8 Listen 23 Survival 21 (to id the animal that make the tracks)
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=10 ; d20+3=15 ; Wednesday November 19th, 2008 3:18:29 PM
Jet thanks Garth for the extra horse. Along with Vaya, his own pack horse, they could carry quite a bit of provisions as well as have storage space. He will ask Keela or Fatine to guide the spare Garth allowed while Jet leads his own, staying toward the rear of the group.
His mind wanders to what ancient secrets may be hidden in this waste land. Ancient temples to forgotton gods? A lair of monster with treasure?
Jet remains casual as they travel. As they stop so the trackers can determine what tracks are seen, he remains especially alert.
Listen: 10 Spot: 15
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=15 ; d20+7=16 ; Wednesday November 19th, 2008 4:28:25 PM
Seeing the tracks, he knew that he should've been listening to father when he was trying to teach him about the ways of tracing and identifying animals. Caelnin says to himself quietly "Tried to teach me, But I never listened..."
As he watches Beren and Anrete look at the tracks, Caelnin focuses on looking which way the tracks lead to and tries to find something unusual on the landscape.
Spot: 15 Listen :16
Keela Wednesday November 19th, 2008 5:17:32 PM
Keela concentrates on keeping up and not slowing the others down. She watches the trackers with avid attention, though she has no idea what they're doing.
Today's Spells:
0 - Detect Magic 0 - Light 0 - Mending 0 - Prestidigitation 1 - Color Spray 1 - Ray of Enfeeblement 1 - Sleep 2 - Scorching Ray 2 - Web
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Wednesday November 19th, 2008 6:11:09 PM
Fatine keeps watching for more plants to collect, but otherwise seems not to pay much attention to anything else. She seems to be out for an afternoon ride, not a care crossing her face.
When Anrete mentions food, she perks up. "It do be a good idea, dinner," she says. Looking at the sun, she asks, "What we be doin' anyway, side from findin' herbs for Darketh?"
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Wednesday November 19th, 2008 9:24:28 PM
Alexi enjoys the ride and the open spaces. The confines of Bryn Baraz apparently had been getting to him without him knowing it. It obviously was getting to the others, as the previous day's event showed. Briefly he wondered how Garth was handling the complaints against Ma Belle and a smile crossed his face that took a while to fade.
The day seemed to pass quicker than expected. The entrance to the canyons they had come out of was a good marker and Alexi noted this on his map and that it was a day's travel from Bryn Baraz.
Noticing Beren stop and look at something and Anrete ask 'Food?', he pauses and looks around as they wait.
Alexi looks at Fatine astonished. "You mean Jet didn't tell you WHY we are here? Tsk, tsk. No wonder Keela was all in a fuss when we showed up and she hadn't even begun to get ready. Sigh! Jet is just going to the birds with nothing much to do but make ale."
When they start again, he asks, "They day is getting long. Should we make camp here? It would give us some time to scout around a little to secure the campsite before it gets too dark."
DM Bob and Carla Wednesday November 19th, 2008 11:36:01 PM
Sliding down from their mounts, Beren, Caelnin and Anrete study the tracks and come to the conclusion that the animals that made them are four-hoofed grazing animals from the same family as deer. The tracks are maybe a day or two old, so it is unlikely the animals are nearby. Their tracks, however, head westward.
Jet keeps his seat, and casts a vigilant eye over the surroundings. He doesn't see anything that raises alarms. His mind drifts as he ponders what the land might reveal, and how he will respond to the challenges.
Alexi fills in the blanks for Fatine and Keela explaining that they are on a scouting mission to explore the south western section of the great plain, but they are also charged with keeping their eyes open for a hunting party that is overdue at the settlement.
Having only snacked on trail rations, some of the party are feeling the need for a decent meal. Alexi makes notation of the landmarks on his map, and suggests the party might using the remaining daylight hours to make camp.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=18 ; d20+7=22 ; Thursday November 20th, 2008 11:22:52 AM
Slightly disappointed that there will probably be no venison tonight, Anrete grins at the prospect of making camp. "Supper will be ready soon. L'emme go find some tasty morsel!"
Leaving Copper with the other mounts, the stealthy barbarian rogue wanders off in search of roots and wild vegetables, and perhaps some small games too.
Before long, Anrete returns to the camp with his pickings, and volunteers to prepare dinner. "Any takers for the latest recipe from the cook's diary??" The wiry human proceeds to unpack his portable cooking sets before anyone can protest.
======================== Survival 18 Cooking 22
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Thursday November 20th, 2008 1:03:33 PM
Fatine smiles at Alexi's astonishment. "Big Man may had tell me what be goin' on, I don' remember. Dee other voices been loud dee last few days, sometimes I ignore dee wrong ones."
At the suggestion of making camp, she sends Col off to explore or stretch his wings as he sees fit. She next sees to a meal and a good brushing for Shadow and Cloud, before releasing them to play in the grass for awhile. Finally, she sets about making her own dinner, or pitching in with everyone else's chores, as needs arise.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Thursday November 20th, 2008 2:57:29 PM
Jet scowls at Alexi as he leads others to believe he let someting slide and comments in return, "Why Alexi, you have your head up every ones butt so far in their business, I figured you would have whispered in their ear what we are doing out here."
He waits for a reply, hoping the other warrrior takes the hint, he's not to be belittled in his duties.
As for the cook, Anrete, he says, "Sorry friends, cold rations and no fires at night. We don't know what happened to the others that have come out here and we don't need to send a signal that can be seen for miles that others our out doing what they did."
His insight is correct and will argue with anyone that wishes to, but everyone knew the nights would be cold and should have prepared for it, as well jerky with cheese and bread is satisfying enough for their journey.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Thursday November 20th, 2008 6:36:41 PM
"Hmmpf." Alexi lets out. "Figures. A lot going on for you last night I presume," he continues, but this time with a smile and a wink. "But no harm done, Big Man. Everything worked out fine," he quickly adds to let Jet know they still looked to him as the Leader.
OOC: You missed posting the day Alexi asked Jet to go tell Fatine and Keela. I'm sure because of your surgery. I noticed on the L&B that it has been a painful recovery. Hope things are getting better by now.
IC: "Sound advice," Alexi says in agreement. "We've had it cushy for some time now. Let's buckle up and rough it for these few days. Whatever Anrete finds we can store away for later."
Alexi remembered the good times early on when he showed Keela tips on taking care of horses and wanted to see her progress so he suggested, "Keela and I can take care of the horses, and anyone else that wants to help, while Anrete looks for stuff, and the rest keep watch."
"Keela, let's let them roll in the grass if they have a mind too, before we brush 'em good," he says (if she agrees to help with the horses).
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=28 ; d20+9=15 ; Thursday November 20th, 2008 7:27:45 PM
Beren mounts after looking at the tracks. They do not ride much further before seeking a place for camp. Beren takes the instructions for a cold camp in stride, and prepares a meal of jerky, trail biscuits, dried fruit, and nuts. He washes it down with water, and rolls out his bedroll.
Volunteering to take the last watch, he rolls into his blanket, and prepares for sleep. When his watch comes, he makes his rounds of the camp carefully.
spot 28 listen 15
DM Bob and Carla Friday November 21st, 2008 12:12:52 AM
Excited at the prospect of a solo demonstration of his cooking skills the barbarian chef goes provisioning. Due to his quick eyes and even quicker hands, the group won't have to dig too deep into the supplies they brought with them. Anrete manages to catch two chubby buff-coloured rodents before they ducked into their burrow. He also identifies some prairie turnip and wild onion amongst the grasses.
Returning to camp, the yellow skinned man is thwarted when Jet commands tersely that there will be no fires.
Fatine ensures her animals are cared for, before tending to her own needs. She volunteers where she can lend a hand. Beren follows the trail of the hoofed animals, imprinting some of the particularities of the tracks in his mind, before returning to camp. Unsure what their barbarian comrade will whip up for a meal, the witch and ranger look to their own resources, and break out their trail rations.
Alexi shrugs off Jet's harsh words, chalking it up to something in the young man's personal life. Confirming his allegiance to Jet as the group leader, the even tempered fighter seeks out the quiet woman, who had helped him get up the voluntary militia back at the settlement. Together, Keela and Alexi look after all the horses.
Though a fire would have been nice for cooking the meal, it isn't required for warmth. A blanket cast over clothes worn is sufficient for a comfortable night.
(Please post watches, and roll Spot and Listen Checks. Beren can keep the same rolls (please re-post them, or roll again.)
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=10 ; d20+3=20 ; Friday November 21st, 2008 8:05:56 AM
Jet inwardly feels bad at the harsh words he is prone to speak on occassion. The past still has quite an influence on his being, where respect is of the up most importance, when living in the streets and fighting for your food and money is the only way to live without becoming a thief. It is only through habit that he speaks sharply when he feels insulted and where he comes from, friends don't insult their friends, because that is usually all one has to stay alive, but when Alexi pushes it no further, the warrior priest settles back down and continues on the journey as though it didn't happen. In the old days, he would not have said a word, because a fight would have immedietly begun, but those days, for now, are over.
Holding a grudge is for the weak. If there is a problem, it needs to be settled immedietly. As this seems to have happened, he remains quiet until something else needs to be said.
He sets up his own bedroll and takes care of Bantom and vaya before taking his usual first watch.
Listen: 10 Spot: 20
ooc: Thanks for the kind words for the recovery. Some days are better then others as nerves that were once impinged are beginning to relearn how to function, the recovery is by far the most painful experience I have ever had to deal with, and I fight with sticks for fun.
Keela d20+2=7 ; d20+2=5 ; Friday November 21st, 2008 12:00:47 PM
Keela is happy to help take care of the horses. The idea of camping without a fire is a little daunting, but her companions seem well up to the task.
She requests first watch, but will take dawn watch instead if that is what her companions prefer.
During her watch, she does her best to stay on alert, but she knows her senses aren't as keen as others'.
[Spot 7; Listen 5. Hopefully, we are not relying on Keela's alertness. :) ]
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+1=12 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+4=12 ; d20+5=16 ; Friday November 21st, 2008 5:59:08 PM
OOC: healing in D&D can be painful too. We had a DM once that graced us with +1 arrows of healing so our archers could heal our front-liners from a distance. They did d6+1 pts of damage but healed 2d8+1. So you could technically be worse off when hit. In our current 4.0 campaign, I suggested our cleric should get a Throwing Hammer of Healing. We'll see if he does. :)
IC: Alexi is glad to have Keela's help. With her companionship, Ma Belle's light haired 'daughter' is completely forgotten. As they stakes out the horses next to their small camp and brushes them, he watches Keela's technique and is satisfied she has the skill down well.
"Well done, Keela. However, I bet there are some things you can teach me," he comments, making comversation. "Growing up on a farm, you know more about animals than I. Since we won't be able to replentish our horse stock very easily, we'll need to breed them. Perhaps you know something in that area?"
Alexi eyes the rodents and vegetables and is rather disappointed that they won't be having rat stew for supper. Chewing on some jerky, dry biscuit, and luck-warm water, he lets his mind wander the open spaces for a while.
He makes his camp next to Lobo and volunteers for the second shift.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Saturday November 22nd, 2008 8:58:23 AM
Beren has already stated his preference for last watch, but will take another if asked. He realizes that he can see much better in the dark than his sensory deprived human companions.
spot 28 listen 15 (from previous roll)
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor d20+5=20 ; d20+4=6 ; Saturday November 22nd, 2008 1:58:35 PM
Fatine takes whatever watch she is assigned, but declines anything in the middle of the night or that interrupts her sleep.
Spot: 20 Listen: 6
She spends her turn pacing the camp, her sharp eyes alert and piercing the night, though she mumbles to herself the entire time, apparently lost in some inner argument with an unseen, unheard conversation partner.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=12 ; d20+7=23 ; Saturday November 22nd, 2008 7:09:31 PM
OOC: Sorry for my absences... I had a hectic last half of week and really had no time to even think about going onto the internet....
Caelnin just keeps to himself, just wondering about what might come of him later on. However, when the time comes for him to make sure that the camp is safe in his usual post before dawn, he keeps alert for anything that might come their way.
Spot: 12 Listen: 23
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+7=12 ; d20+3=13 ; d20+3=23 ; Sunday November 23rd, 2008 11:33:55 AM
Grumbling softly to himself at Jet's "instructions", Anrete decides to take it as a challenge to his cutlery skill to prepare cold dishes for dinner. After much deliberation, the wiry chef decides to free the cute furry rodents and instead prepared a simple turnip and wild onion salad dish with a generous helping of waybread crumbs soaked in some ale he stole from the kitchen.
"Dinners ready!" Anrete frowns slightly when he noticed that some of the companions distrust the food he prepared.
Sulky slightly, the wild looking barbarian wanders off to a corner and took up his watch as he helped himself to his diced turnips and onions.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Sunday November 23rd, 2008 9:39:37 PM
Addendum following Anrete's post:
Alexi eyes the rodents and vegetables and is rather disappointed that they won't be having rat stew for supper. He begins chewing on some jerky, whey he notices Anrete is not letting the precaution damper his cooking spirit. Alexi looks on, slowly chewing his jerky, until Anrete is finished.
Taking a look at the final product he comments, "So, if you can't eat the rodents, then eat like the rodents." Alexi coops some of the salad out and tries it. "Hmmm.... like the ale touch. What do you call it?" Alexi compliments Anrete as he takes out a portion. He eats the Ale Salad with his jerky and luke warm water, while leting his mind wander the open spaces for a while.
OOC: rest is the same.
DM Bob and Carla Monday November 24th, 2008 7:51:06 AM
The small troop enjoys their dinner on the open range. Anrete's salad is well received by at least a few of his companions and the barbarian can't help but admit to himself that it was really quite tasty. Watches are posted and the night passes uneventfully, albeit several times during the night a raspy baying can be heard from great distance.
The morning brings with it an amazing scene. A blanket of fog lies low to the ground, concealing all but the tallest of grasses. Spider webs cling to almost every blade of grass that reaches above the fog and beads of dew hang from the webs and catch the morning sun. A bird sings from a small shrub nearby.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Monday November 24th, 2008 11:30:08 AM
Jet is a bit confused as to the spider webs, not having seen them that night and neither did anyone else with better vision then a humans.
He prays to all the gods in the morning with his usal salute, then begins his own divinations of the situation. before they begin their journey again.
Cast Detect Magic and scans the areas for several rounds. Cast Detect Poison and scans the area for several rounds.
0-*Detect Magic, *Detect Poison, Resistance 1- Detect Evil, Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=22 ; d20+7=22 ; Monday November 24th, 2008 4:03:03 PM
Caelnin takes in the amazing sight for a while, mainly checking if there is anything else of use in this immediate area that he could use for any craft.
He shoots a few practice arrows, making sure that he can find them again for later use and then gets ready for the journey ahead.
spot: 22, Listen : 22
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Monday November 24th, 2008 7:29:18 PM
Unless any of the others warns her not to, Fatine tries to collect a few of the spiderwebs, storing them in one of her belt pouches for later examination. After morning preparations are done, she saddles her horse and makes sure Shadow and Cloud are properly cared for. When the group heads out, she gives the dogs a heel command so that they stay close, in case the grass and fog makes it difficult to see them.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Monday November 24th, 2008 9:21:58 PM
Each time Alexi is awoken by the baying noise, he draws his sword and listens for a while before relaxing and going back to sleep.
Morning feels good, although not what he expected. The fog is disconcerting.
"Well, we can't keep our bearings with this fog. I suggest we wait for it to lift before we keep going."
Having stated his opinion, he will do whatever Jet says.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+3=16 ; Monday November 24th, 2008 11:06:49 PM
Beren looks at the fog as it rolls in during his watch. He takes a sighting off the stars, and lays a stick pointing to North and South.
When the others awake. he breaks his fast. AS they begin to speak, he does as well.
"We will not get lost, but if you wish to wait for the fog to burn off first,we should only have to wait an hour or so. (Knowledge Nature 16)
Keela Monday November 24th, 2008 11:08:54 PM
When Alexi asks her about horse-breeding, Keela replies, "Oh. Oh, well, we'd want to ask Senna about that. She's the one who knows about farm matters. I'm afraid I'm quite useless in that regard." Which, she adds silently to herself, is just as well. The subject is a trifle...indelicate.
She smiles a little at the foggy world she awakens to. She's always had a fondness for fog, and the dew glittering on the little spiderwebs is quite pretty. She prepares her daily spells, content to go or stay as the others decide.
Today's Spells:
0 - Detect Magic 0 - Disrupt Undead 0 - Light 0 - Prestidigitation 1 - Color Spray 1 - Ray of Enfeeblement 1 - Sleep 2 - Scorching Ray 2 - Web
DM Bob and Carla Monday November 24th, 2008 11:46:46 PM Beren correctly intuits that the fog will quickly burn off. The low lying blanket dissipates quickly as the air warms with the rising sun. Jetdetects nothing magical about his surroundings but does sense the minute droplets of posion harbored within the glands of the spiders. He is sure that none of the poison is strong enough to harm anything of their size, although one or two of the spiders look as if they might give a nasty bite. Regardless, Fatine ventures forth and gathers as much webbing as she can while the webs are so easy to see. In no time she has a small ball of silk strands wrapped around a stick.
Caelnin and Keela prepare for the day, while Alexi grumps about the wait. Once the fog has lifted the party heads off to the west. The morning grows warmer and progress is steady. Near midday the party crosses a strip of trampled grasses. [Track vs DC 15 to determine Highlight to display spoiler: { that the clawed feet of a predator are not all that remain to be seen, droplets of blood can be found in the grass }]
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Tuesday November 25th, 2008 11:07:16 AM
Jet is satisfied, there is no immedieate danger to the group and when everyone has packed their gear and gathered what they need, they set off in the same route as before.
Along the way, Jet thinks to himself The things the mages and witches need for their spells are just strange.
When they come to the trampled ground, he waits for the guys up front to use the skills, Jet lacks to determine what might have passed through.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=14 ; d20+7=15 ; Tuesday November 25th, 2008 6:14:51 PM
Caelnin just follows the orders given to him as he usually does. Still wishing he had listened to his father, he keeps a lookout while the others are trying to figure out what had just happened.
Spot: 14, Listen: 15
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday November 25th, 2008 10:05:31 PM
Glad that Beren was right and the wait for the fog to lift was not long, Alexi helps get the horses ready and is raring to go again.
Attentive to his surroundings, the morning passes by without him noticing anything unusual. The trampled grass, though, is not hard to see. But what caused it? Alexi waits for Beren to study the area.
"I'll go this way a little bit and see if I find more," he says as he nudges Lobo a little ways (some 30 to 50 feet) to the left of the area looking for more trampled grass.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=15 ; Tuesday November 25th, 2008 10:27:25 PM
Beren studies the tracks that they find, and reports to the others that some large animal made a kill here, or at least attacked something here, for there is blood still on the grass.
Asking the others to stay where they are, he searches further. He looks to see which way the animal went once leaving this area, and looks for any other sign that he can find. He moves in larger and larger circles as he tries to find what happened.
Survival (tracking) 15
Keela Tuesday November 25th, 2008 11:57:07 PM
Keela climbs back into the saddle with hardly a grimace. She is becoming accustomed to the long hours of riding.
She rides, as always, toward the center of the group, doing her best to stay out of the way of the people who know what they're doing.
Master Thaddeus always said that a familiar helped to sharpen one's senses, she thinks. It's a dreadful expense, of course, but if I'm going to be helping the security detail...perhaps I should have one?
A moment later, she shakes off the thought. You're a reserve, she reminds herself. Don't go puffing yourself up and making excuses for extravagent wastes.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=14 ; d20+3=12 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 1:15:53 AM
Ready for a fresh day, Anrete mounts Copper and readies his javelin.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday November 26th, 2008 8:09:56 AM Beren and Alexi search the grasses for clues. The ranger notes the depth of the depressions left in the soil by the predator and concludes that it must weigh several times that of a man although the distance between tracks suggests a creature only slightly larger than a man. The tracks lead away from the party towards the north and the open plain. Alexi follows the trampled grasses to the south and finds what he believes to be the kill site. A large volume of blood stains the grasses and as the heat of teh day settles in, the area is abuzz with flies, eager to feed upon the dried blood. More ominous than the blood and flies, is the broken spear that lies unattended in the grass.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+3=7 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=26 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 8:44:17 AM
OOC-- My post suggests that Beren too would have discovered these remains, as he circled the area.
Beren comes upon the large bloodied area just after Alexi. Together, they grimly look at the spear lying there. Most likely this was a man, maybe even one of their missing group.
Most significantly, to Beren, the tracks lead North, back towards the settlement. He informs Jet and the others of what they have found, and continues his search for more clues. (Track 16)
spot 15 listen 26 ignore first roll, wrong modifier
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=20 ; d20+3=14 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 1:01:55 PM
Jet does not appear surprised at the sight of blood, but once a spear is produced, he gets serious and a little anxious. "Alright everyone, keep your eyes to the skies as well as the horizon for danger. This thing, whatever made the kill was also strong enough to carry away the person that owned the spear, instead of feeding here."
With those words, he looks to the skies before continuing, "Beren, you see any blood on the tip of that spear? Perhaps the wielder wounded the beast before he fell? Also, start looking for drops of blood along the path it took. If the creature didn't swallow the prey whole, that means the victim likely bled out more in transit. You say it traveled North after the attack, lets follow it's trail and stay alert. This thing is as much a danger to the Ahote as the settlement. Speaking of that, does anyone recognize the spear as one we would carry or one from their tribe?"
When these questions have answers, Jet suggests to the group they move out following the creatures trail to the North.
Listen:20 Spot:14
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+7=14 ; d20+8=13 ; d20+7=12 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 3:34:38 PM
The broken spear that the others have found make Caelnin want to feel very cautious and he gets his bow ready in any case of something coming out to attack them.
When Jet asks about the spear, Caelnin says "I can see if it is ours if I can inspect it properly, although broken maybe I can tell what wood was used or something special about the spear head..." (Appraise: 14)
Once he finds out all he can about the spear, he goes back to watching the horison for anything out of the ordinary that might attack the group.
Spot: 13, Listen: 12
(OOC: Eeeee.... 14, 13, 12 in a row (with mods)... odd and low rolls)
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+7=25 ; d20=5 ; d20+2=8 ; Wednesday November 26th, 2008 5:59:58 PM
Question: is the spear all there but in parts or is it just a segment of the spear? and which segment, bottom part or point part?
After Jet and Caelnin study the broken spear, Alexi studies it, searching his memory of the time they spent with the Ahote and what their spears were made of, the wood and the spearpoint (if the broken part had the point).
Craft Longspear +7 (I'm using the Craft skill for the roll since his expertise in making spears would greately help in determining what wood was used, regardless of the point) : d20 +7 = 25
OR using Gather Imforation +0 (to see if he had gathered enough information about their spears while with them) : d20 = 5
OR Appraise (like Caelnin, to see if the wood is any kind we've seen in these parts) : d20+2= 8
DMs, use whichever roll you see fits best for figuring out if it is an Ahote spear or possibly one of ours.
IC: "I agree we must discover what creature this is and the who it was that was its victim. Although I believe wild animals have the right to live and hunt in this land as much as we and the Ahote, we need to find out what sort of animals are out here just as much as we need to know what kind of plants are out here too. We at least have some forewarning of its power, so let us be extra weary," he adds solemnly.
Once the group is back together again and ready to head out (if they are to follow the tracks) Alexi suggests, "We should stay closer together than what we've been up until now just in case we are attacked. This way we are only an sword length away to assist."
DM Bob & Carla Thursday November 27th, 2008 7:34:54 AM Beren and Alexi study the kill site whilst Jet directs the investigation. Beren does indeed find blood on the spear tip, but there is no way for the ranger to determine if the blood is that of the victim or the aggressor. The shaft of the spear is also covered in blood. Caelnin examines both the shaft and the tip of the spear for clues to it's origin before handing it back to the former Fist. Alexi notes that the tip is made of steel. Unlike the weapons he has seen crafted in the larger cities, this spear tip is less refined, but just as lethal as any he was issued in his former employ. The shaft is made from a wood that Caelnin has not seen before, and therefore it is unlikely to have been made in Floating City.
The party follows the tracks northward and further into the great plain. The 'three sisters' poke above the horizon towards the northeast. After several hours of riding, a second set of tracks converges from the south west. The combined tracks continue on to the north where in the distance a small outcropping of low rocks rises from the grasses.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Thursday November 27th, 2008 7:52:55 AM
Caelnin comes to conclusions about his findings about the materials of the broken spear. "As I haven't seen this wood before, my guess is that is that it comes from around here. Thus most likely not one of the missing or late party that have scouted before us..."
Travelling onwards, Caelnin notes the rocks and tracks and lets the people that know what they are doing to let them do their job, getting slightly frustrated as he can't track as well as the ranger.
"That's what I might ask Beren to teach me once I teach him the fineries of arrow making. Maybe I can become of more use...."
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=21 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=11 ; Thursday November 27th, 2008 10:13:53 AM
Beren is not sure that following this beast is the best idea, but he takes his instructions seriously, and is easily able to lead the group up the trail used by whatever this is. (track 21) He strives to stay alert to what is around him, but following the tracks takes up much of his awareness. When the second set of tracks join the first, he stops.
"There are two of them now."
SPot 14 listen 11
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Thursday November 27th, 2008 12:43:33 PM
Jet readies his sword and rests it on his knees, prepared to launch Bantom into battle.
"Beren, what are the time frames of both these tracks? Could it be the same creature at two different times, or are you sure there are two different creatures?" Jet asks in a concerned manner. "I also didn't get an answer to my question, was there any blood along the trail we just followed? If not, that means the creature was likely not very wounded if it was and that it completely ate the wielder of that spear, which is a large meal for any regular or normal creature." ooc: I didn't read any spoilers, so I don't know if the DM mentioned it or not.
Looking over at Alexi, "So the spear is to sophisticated to be Ahote and not from the Floating City, where did it come from?" He asks Anrete, you have some knowledge of wood don't you? You have an idea of the type of wood or where it came from?"
"It could be one of those that escaped from the raid on the wagon train, but very unlikely they could get past the Ahote and why would they come this way?"
0-*Detect Magic, *Detect Poison, Resistance 1- Detect Evil, Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person
OOC: Happy Turkey Day for all my friends out there, if you get one.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+1=14 ; d20+1=6 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+5=25 ; Thursday November 27th, 2008 5:11:10 PM
Alexi looks at Jet quizzically, "I'm sure that it was NOT made in Floating City or from other cities I've been stationed in, so probably not from our group, but COULD have been made by the Ahote, who are sophisticated enough to make metal weapons like this."
Taking his map out, he adds, "I agree that it probably isn't any that attacked the caravan. It could be some other clan of people that live on the plains related to the Ahote, or not, or a tribe of humanoids. We'll only find out at when we reach the end of the trail, if there's anything left of him to study."
He then makes a note on his map their position and that of the outcropping of low rocks relative to the Three Sisters. He puts the stuff away and readies his lance again, ready to keep going.
"Such a peaceful land, sort of," he commnets as the gentle breeze bends the grasses and clouds scuttle across the sky.
OOC: DMs, is there any breeze? and which way is it blowing, towards the direction of the tracks or from them? or across them?
Keela d20+9=16 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 2:46:02 AM
When she's sure the others are done with the spear, Keela asks to be allowed to examine it.
"It's just that, sometimes, people treat their spears and arrows with poison. I have some alchemical training, so I might be able to tell...something." She doesn't mention that, compared to a true master alchemist, her skill is laughable.
Still, she gives it her best effort. [Craft Alchemy 16]
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=15 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 11:47:42 AM
Beren studies the tracks to see if this could possibly be the same beast.
Track 15 OOC--No Dm post to respond to
DM Bob & Carla d8=8 ; Friday November 28th, 2008 10:57:44 PM
The party thoroughly exaines the broken spear and tries to reach a conclusion about it's origins. Keela detects no poison or other alchemical substances on the spear tip. [OOC alchemy would not detect poison per se, this would require a detect poison spell]. Jet, Alexi, and Caelnin discuss the level of sophistication required to make such a weapon. The spear tip itself, while made from steel, is not overly sophisticated in it's design or manufacture, and at present, the party knows little of Ahote weaponsmithing skills other than what they were able to learn from the hunting party.
Beren examines the fresh set of tracks and determines that they are not from the same animal, the second set being somewaht smaller than the first, and concludes there are two creatures hunting these grasses.
A light breeze quarters their path from the northwest.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Saturday November 29th, 2008 2:10:16 AM
OOC: DM's could Beren determine if the tracks were made at around the same time or at different times?
IF Beren does not answer his questions fully, he will repeat them, "When did the tracks occur ranger?"
DM Bob & Carla (Supplemental) Saturday November 29th, 2008 4:54:40 PM Beren's careful examination of the tracks leads him to believe that the two creatures met at the convergence of the tracks, whereupon they seemed to circle each other before continuing on in unison.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Saturday November 29th, 2008 7:52:01 PM
"Looks like it may have found a mate perhaps?" Alexi comments. Wetting his finger and sticking it up in the air he adds, "Good thing we are downwind of them. Let's hope it stays that way, huh?"
Alexi keeps an eye on Lobo's ears for any sign that he has picked up a strange scent.
Keela Sunday November 30th, 2008 3:37:42 PM
Keela hands the spear back, and waits patiently for the trackers to reach their conclusions.
Today's Spells:
0 - Detect Magic 0 - Disrupt Undead 0 - Light 0 - Prestidigitation 1 - Color Spray 1 - Ray of Enfeeblement 1 - Sleep 2 - Scorching Ray 2 - Web
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=8 ; d20+3=22 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 4:36:11 AM
Dismounting from Copper, Anrete uncoils his spiked chain. "Maybe we should proceed on foot, the animals might be spooked by whatever that is ahead."
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Monday December 1st, 2008 1:11:46 PM
"Agreed, those with animals not trained for battle should be ready to dismount at any moment." Jet confirms, ",but lets stay on our mounts until we find more evidence. We don't know how far behind the creatures we are yet."
Jet looks toward Fatine, "Any chance, good ol' Col could look for signs of a cave or copse of trees ahead that could be sanctuary for such creatures?" Not knowing the limitations of her friend, he hopes, if it can point out specific plants like it has in the past, something like this request is possible.
"We'll go slow for now so the scouts can continue their work. Beren, how long ago did these creatures make these trails last please?"
DM Bob & Carla (Supplemental) Monday December 1st, 2008 7:21:29 PM Beren completes his examination of the tracks, but can offer only a rough estimate of when they were made. He believes them to be somewhere between 12 hours and 36 hours old. The blood drops have dried, some of the grasses have begun to rebound from the trampling, yet not all the blood has been consumed by the flies that now hover about them.
The rest of the part considers options including trailing by horseback or on foot. Fatine sends her bird aloft to scout for their quarry.
[OOC I believe Matt is away so I have taken the liberty of sending Col ahead]
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=11 ; d20+9=20 ; Monday December 1st, 2008 8:30:56 PM
Beren sees no sense in following the tracks further, unless the group intends to hunt these animals.
"Do we want to kill these beasts, or should we continue with our search expedition?"
He will do whatever the group wishes, but he does not see the need to hunt these beasts. If they come near the settlement, they will surely find some sign of it.
He continues in his scouting duties, watching for any signs of trouble.
spot 11 listen 20
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Second Post Monday December 1st, 2008 8:46:18 PM
"That's a good question Beren. I guess the answer lies somewhere in the knowledge of, are we somewhere near the route we were supposed to take in opposition to the lost scouting party, or are we going out of the way of that route?" Jet asks those more knowledgable then himself.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Monday December 1st, 2008 8:58:38 PM
Alexi sits back in the saddle contemplating the situation, then after a moment of thought, or because flies were starting to gather around him and he wanted to get moving again, he says, "Well, I never did desire to hunt them, just find out who it was that was killed. Someone in camp may be able to identify the spear point, or we may not even find out who it was after we locate these creatures' den. One option would be to make a lot of noise when we neach their den in hope of driving them off, like my Pa and I did on our hunting trips with the Baron. We'd make a lot of noise and drive the animals towards the Baron's hunting party.
"However, in this case, it may backfire. These creatures may not be driven off easily, especially if they are guarding young ones. Fatine and Keela's sparkling magic may do the trick, but if not, we'd have to kill them. Something I'd rather not have to do.
"So, I guess my vote is to let them be. I'll make a note on my map of their approximate location and about how far we think they may range. This will serve as a warning for future scouting parties to either avoid this area or be extra watchful."
Alexi swats at some flies. "Man, I need a bath! Anyone else got flies bothering them or is just me?"
Alexi makes the appropriate notes on the map then puts it away.
"This hasn't been a waste of time. We've done what we were asked to do. Let's go back to the kill site and keep heading the way we were originally going."
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Third Post Monday December 1st, 2008 11:11:49 PM
"I just don't like it. Normal creatures usually run from humans and there are to many questions left unanswered, like what is a lone human doing out here by themselves? Whatever the reason, these creatures are man killers and they are also competing against us for survival, because we need fresh game just as much as they do. I would suggest we continue on, determine what they are and if we have to, kill them, for the safety of others in the region as well as preserving what little game is out here, for our own usage as well as the Ahote or others."
Jet waits for the input of the others though as well as their location on the map.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 6:11:00 PM
"Normal, you mean, normal prey or predators? Normal predators the size of this one wouldn't flinch from humans unless they wer in large numbers. Otherwise they, we, are just food for them. I do also wonder if this hunter was alone and why. It would be good to know what it is and how many are out on these plains."
Alexi swats at more files. "I propose that we finish our reconnaisance as Garth instructed, then perhaps come back on our own initiative to investigate further. I've got the Three Sisters marked and the boulders where we think they lair. Shouldn't be to hard to find this spot again."
Alexi waits for the vote or for Jet to just take off.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 7:15:55 PM
[OOC: sorry for the long absence folks. I'll be posting better again, I promise. Fatine can detect poison on the spear if desired.]
Fatine rides along near the back of the companions, keeping up, but not paying much attention to the goings-on. She mumbles to herself now and again, but otherwise doesn't make much of a stir.
Suddenly, she sits up more erect, as if just waking from a dream. "What dee devil - Col, why you let me be gone so long dere, eh?" She looks around, puzzled, then rides closer to Keela.
Whispering, she asks, "Sister, do you know where be my bird? He sposeta snap me outta dose trances when I'm off in other places like dat. Where he be gettin' to?"
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 7:55:22 PM
"I would assume the reconnaisance would include checking out the possible dangers. And from what I see thus far, I do believe we need to have a closer look to see if these animals are a threat.", Anrete remarks, his face flushed from the scent of blood that lingers around.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 8:15:31 PM
Caelnin pipes up about what he thinks about the situation at hand. "Well, I think we should go on with the expedition, as Alexi had said, we most likely will have to backtrack anyway and thus we can check it out then. Our primary goal was to look around and if we find them or it, we can deal with them then.
"But also checking out the place where they might be would be a good idea as well, becuase that means we will have made Bryn Byraz a safer place to live in, which would be one of the longer term goals.
"Whichever we do, it is better for the people of Bryn Byraz, but If I had the choice, I would like to see what or who is doing this."
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 9:22:36 PM
Alexi nodds at Anrete and smiles, "Well, the way I see it, our reconnaisance did just as you said. We found a possible danger in the form of two large, clawed creatures, and we have determined that they probably live in the area of those rocks and that they roam an area of several miles. That should be sufficient for the people of Bryn Baraz to avoid this area. It's not like they live in our back yard.
"However, sice three of us are more inclined to investigate further, two of us more inclined to check this out later, and the ladies have not stated an opinion either way, looks like we keep going towards those rocks."
Alexi swats at more flies, then sputters as one gets too close to his mouth.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 10:09:04 PM
Jet nods at Alexi's words, "Alright then, caution is the key. Let's approch slowly and if the creatures attack we will defend, if we chase them off due to our numbers, then we will have more information. I don't intend on chasing things all over the territory, but determining our situation is of the utmost importance."
Jet allows the scouts to continue following the tracks as he brings up the rear. He doesn't disagree with Alexi or his reasoning, but does have his own opinion of the situation, which was decided, kind of, by majority.
DM Bob & Carla (Supplemental) Tuesday December 2nd, 2008 11:25:43 PM
The band of adventurer's sets out once again on the trail of the predators, albeit with more caution than before. The decision to continue the pursuit is not taken easily, but with Beren and Caelnin leading, and Col scouting from above they continue moving to the north, towards the low rock outcropping ahead of them. The further they advance, the more they realize that the plains have a way of deceiving their eyes. What they thought to be a low outcropping not too far away has turned out to be a rocky hill at much greater distance. Some twenty to thirty feet at it's height, they now estimate it to be several hundred feet across.
The party is now within 300 yards of the hill. The breeze continues to blow gently towards and across them from the north west, and the grasses in this area are tall and dense, touching the bellies of the horses. Fatine senses uneasiness from Col who continues to circle above the hill.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=16 ; d20+9=24 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 12:07:49 AM
"I do not like these tall grasses. A predator like this would be used to this, and use it to further its attack. we must be on our guard more than ever."
The elven ranger rides with two arrows in hand, and his bow strung. He checks to see that his sword is loose as well, and increases his vigilance. Believing that he will hear something before he sees it in this grass, he pushes more of his energy into listening for any untoward sounds.
spot 16 listen 24
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=7 ; d20+3=16 ; d20+5=18 ; d20+4=15 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 10:46:39 AM
"Stay alert and lets travel towards Col, we can search that area first, then slowly spread out." Jet says as he pulls his sword and begins to guide his horse with his knees. "Hopefully our horses can get up the embankment." He adds.
He carefully watches Bantom's reaction to the area as they both stay alert for trouble. Jet Listen: 7 Spot: 16
Bantom Listen: 18 Spot: 15 + Scent
0-*Detect Magic, *Detect Poison, Resistance 1- Detect Evil, Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Second post d20+8=20 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 10:48:34 AM
OOC: Oops, forgot ride.
Ride: 20
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 5:15:59 PM
"Huh," the witch grunts. "Dere be dat silly bird. How he get away from me?
"Hey Big Man. Dat bird what hangs round wit' me be feelin' a little nervous. He up round dose hills. I can almos' hear him whinin' from here. Do anyone else here dat?"
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=22 ; d20+7=10 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+7=23 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 6:30:27 PM
Caelnin tries his best to keep alert, although the height to the grasses are confusing him, he is more worried about the sounds and what he can predict from the curtain of grass. (Spot: 10, Listen:23)
He readies his bow, and having practised to guide with knees for quite some time now, he is confident and get two arrows out of his quiver.
"Ready for almost anything..."
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+1=20 ; d20+1=16 ; d20+4=6 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 6:43:19 PM
Alexi scans the hillside for the easiest way up while frequently glancing at Lobo's ears.
"I'd suggest NOT spread out," Alexi says. Then looking at Keela and Fatine he says, "Perhaps some sparkling, noisy magic would come in handy about now?"
When/if the noisy magic (prestigisomethingorother) starts, Alexi will put away his lance and draw his sword and start banging on his metal shield, encouraging the others to make noise too.
Spot d20+1 = 20 for way up. Spot hidden predators d20+1= 16 (no point in a listen check if we are all making noise)
Lobo Spot d20 +4 = 6
OOC: If we aren't ready to make noise then post so and Alexi will wait.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=17 ; d20+9=29 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 7:21:12 PM
Beren continues to stay alert, watching for signs of trouble. The tall grasses are still a concern, and the elf carefully looks and listens for any signs of an attacking animal.
spot 17 listen 29
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=17 ; d20+9=29 ; Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 7:21:20 PM
Beren continues to stay alert, watching for signs of trouble. The tall grasses are still a concern, and the elf carefully looks and listens for any signs of an attacking animal.
spot 17 listen 29
Keela Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 10:03:20 PM
Not sure it will help, Keela dutifully casts a Prestidigitation. For her first trick, she sends a flock of colored butterflies winging over the grasses to the party's right.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Second post Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 11:01:42 PM
"Please, no noise yet!" Jet tells the group in hushed tones. "I want to see what they are, before they run off. Stay close enough to where we can get to another quickly, I doubt they will be casting fireballs at us." Jet requests, hoping they don't have magical abilities as well as prowess.
"Fatine, does Col recongnize anything or can he tell you more from there?" Jet will ask, not knowing the limitations of their connection.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday December 3rd, 2008 11:48:48 PM
The adventurers guide their steeds closer to the knoll, wary of their surroundings and what may lay hidden behind the curtain of tall grasses. Fatine reports to the group that her avian companion may have found something disagreeable. Beren and Caelnin scout the way forward, straining to detect any visual or auditory cues. Alexi suggests making noise to frighten off whatever lies ahead but the rest of the group seems more intent on stealth. From the back of his horse teh former Fist sees no movement from the hill or the surrounding grasses, and the elven scouts are equally unsuccessful in hearing anything that might be hidden in the grass. No more than a few sparrows flit across the grasses as the adventurers approach. Only upon approaching within 100 yards does Jet's steed react to something as yet unseen. Bantom neither refuses his rider, nor whinnies in protest, but his ears flatten against his skull and his tail whips at his rider's legs.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Second post d20+3=16 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+5=8 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+8=15 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 11:53:48 AM
"Where is it boy?" Jet asks Bantom, not really expecting an answer, before he tells the group, something is close, "Bantom can sense it."
Remaining calm, he knows now, they will not be caught flat footed as his mighty steed once again proves his value to the last gold he paid and all the blood and sweat it took to train him. The many hours of being bucked off and kicked in the face by the beast until they finally became friends has paid off in spades yet again.
He allows his mighty steed to take whatever action he sees fit, if he seems like he needs to move in a different direction, since he has better sences then his trainer.
OOC: DM, do we need new Spot/Listen checks or staying with the originals? If new
Jet Listen: 16 Spot: 12 Ride: 15
Bantom Listen: 8 Spot: 23 +Scent
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Thursday December 4th, 2008 5:44:50 PM
Fatine rides along calmly, toward the back of the group. She removes one of the wood and cloth dolls from her belt pouches. This one is shaped like a four-legged animal instead of a humanoid. She idly plays with it while riding, keeping an eye on the landscape and watching out for Col.
She gives Shadow and Cloud a command to guard, and they immediately seem to transform from trotting dogs to stalking predators, the hair on the backs rising and their eyes drinking in their surroundings with watchful vigilance.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+7=17 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 5:54:36 PM
Caelnin dismounts Huetheira to try something different that might not yeild any results, but worth a try none the less...
"Ok, lets see if I can see anything close to the ground that might suggest any animal movements... I might be able to find something, not sure what It'll mean, but I'll have a look."
Still keeping his bow close at hand, he tries to look around the ground for anything, reasoning to himself that if he can't see anything above, he might try and go down to see...
(Search 17)
Keela d20+2=11 ; d20+2=16 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 5:58:23 PM
All Keela can do is watch and be ready, and she can't do that very well.
[Spot 11; Listen 16]
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+1=20 ; d20+1=4 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+5=18 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 6:54:47 PM
Alexi is pleased and amused at Keela's ingenuity. Butterflies! Quiet and yet possibly distracting to animals. He then tenses a little more at Jet's warning.
"Perhaps send those butterflies over towards Jet's direction and flutter them around on the other side of him for a little while," he suggests Keela.
He keeps looking around and glancing at Lobo's ears.
New rolls if needed: Alexi Spot d20+1=20, Listen d20+1=4
Lobo Spot d20+4=15, Listen d20+5=18
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=24 ; d20+9=23 ; d20+9=13 ; Thursday December 4th, 2008 10:29:13 PM
Beren, having had no luck in hearing anything, climbs down from Red's back, and begins to look for tracks or other signs. (Track 24)
His bow is ready, and his sword is at hand.
spot 23 listen 13
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=21 ; d20+9=12 ; d20+9=16 ; d20+9=11 ; Friday December 5th, 2008 10:25:38 PM
OOC--No Dm post to respond to.
Beren thinks back on his life. How could he have come to this point. Here he is, hundreds of miles from where he was born, working with people he hardly knows, defending more people he knows even less. Why is he not still back in the woods? Did he feel some need to see the World?
But he knew. HIs brother died saving him. Even though he ended up with his disfigurement. Even though people rejected him. He felt a need to live up to his brother's courage. To save others. To protect those who could not protect themselves. This was not something that had come to him in a moment, but something that had grown over his years hunting Orcs. He needed to do this...at least for now.
Then too, he had given his word, signed the contract, and he would not go back on that.
With that in mind, he steeled his will once more, and began to hunt. These beasts were not the only ones who knew how to do that. He removed anything that might give him away by making noise, checked the wind, and silently started to stalk his prey.
Spot 12 move silently 16 listen 11
DM Bob & Carla Friday December 5th, 2008 11:40:48 PM Fatine readies herself for the unknown that lies ahead, calling upon her dogs to protect her. Likewise, Jet encourages Bantom to remain alert. Alexi watches in wonder as Keela sends a squadron of butterflies across the tops of the grasses. [/b] Caelnin & Beren[/b] continue to search for tracks and sign, before Beren removes any obstructive belongings and begins creeping forward through the grasses. Both of the scouts find sign indicating that the creatures have passed through this area several times, with older tracks that seem to be both coming and going.
Neither Caelnin, Alexi, Keela, or Jet see or hear any activity coming from the knoll, yet Bantom remains edgy.
[OOC How close to the knoll will Beren approach?]
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=16 ; Saturday December 6th, 2008 11:52:23 AM
Jet, fully aware of the dangers that are in the wilderness he further encourages his friends to stay close together. "Two or three steps apart my friends, lets not allow them the advantage of killing one of us and running off before the others react."
With that statement, the group, together with the scouts and trackers up front, continue onto the knoll. Jet is very busy keeping his eyes on Bantom, Col, Fatine and the surrounding areas as well. His nervousness unseen by some, but living in the streets for most of his life has given him the knowledge that showing fear is a handycap. One must restrain emotions. One must never go into a fight wondering what the other person is going to do to you, or in this case, creature. Only what you are going to do to them.
[Question to DM] : Do you want us to roll daily spot and listen checks?
Bluff: 16
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Sunday December 7th, 2008 4:26:39 PM
Alexi tries not to be distracted by the butterflies and watches the grasses and Lobo's ears.
Same rolls as before?
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=10 ; d20+3=12 ; d20+7=15 ; d20+7=24 ; Monday December 8th, 2008 10:41:21 AM
His nostril flaring with the anticiptation of blood shed, his or otherwise, Anrete stalks silently at the flank of the party towards the knoll, his spiked chain ready.
Fatine rides forward with the others, keeping an eye out for any trouble. She keeps the small doll in her hand, and readies a long metal needle with her other hand. "If dat silly bird be hurt, I gonna kill him. He better protect his self or ol' Fatine give him what for!"
Keela Monday December 8th, 2008 2:37:10 PM
Keela makes sure Daisy keeps up with the others. She sends her "butterflies" back and forth in front of the group, trying to provoke some kind of reaction from whatever they are hunting.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 d20+8=22 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; Monday December 8th, 2008 6:06:37 PM
As Caelnin notices the Knoll, he becomes as quiet as possible and strains to hear anything else that might be of use to the party as a whole.
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Spot: 22 Listen: 8 Hide: 28 Move Silently: 23
DM Bob & Carla Monday December 8th, 2008 8:38:29 PM
As Beren follows the trail he becomes convinced that it must lead to the knoll. His companions are strung out behind him and to his flanks, some on foot and concealed in the grasses like Anrete and Caelnin and others astride their mounts. Keela sends her butterflies ahead of the group, hoping to flush anything that might lie in waiting, but there is no movement in the grasses ahead.
Beren can now see details of the knoll. At it's heart is a weathered bedrock outcropping. The stone is fractured and deeply split. The surrounding soils have been pushed by the wind and other natural forces against the outcrop and down into the crevasses. At the base of one of the larger rocks, a large hole has been dug. A mound of darker soil belies its' position. From his currrent vantage (100 feet), the ranger cannot see any signs of movement, but the smell of death that so alarmed Jet's steed is now obvious even to the ranger.
[OOC daily rolls are not required, as long as your basic activity has not changed you can stick with the same roll, e.g. if you are just standing and watching then stick with your roll, but when you begin to sneak forward you should re-roll the spots and listens, as well as a move silently of course...
If you intend to sneak forward please indicate if you are on horseback (the horse will also require a move silently roll, if your horse follows behind you (roll still required) or if your horse is left behind, in which case only you require a roll]
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Monday December 8th, 2008 11:32:55 PM
Alexi guietly suggests Beren and Anrete sneak closer to the hole and see how large it really is.
"We can position oursleves around and downwind of this knoll. Put some freshly killed animal carcass, something small like what Anrete caught yesterday, in front of the hole. Then Anrete and Beren can stay atop the knoll, hiding, and watch to see what comes out."
Anrete Nanoc (AC17, HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+7=21 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+3=8 ; d20+3=21 ; Tuesday December 9th, 2008 10:02:36 AM
Giving a nonchalant shrug, the wild man in his spikey armor crept silently towards the opening exposing himself due to the lack of cover. Peering at the hole, Anrete attempts to spot any unusual signs and listens for the tell-tale growls of beasts and such.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=21 ; d20+3=14 ; d20+5=9 ; d20+4=22 ; Tuesday December 9th, 2008 11:54:09 AM
Jet doesn't like the idea of Anrete leaving the group, but he is off, before he can say anything. "These creatures, like my mount likely have scent ability and move silently and hide does not matter with creatures that have this. Someone get up there with him!"
Jet on the other hand also leaves the group and with a "Heeyah!, he anticpates being followed and turns Bantom around in the direction they came heading away from the group about 30' and with his sword starts swinging at the brush, looking for something that may be in the tall grass.
Jet Listen: 21 Spot: 14
Bantom Listen: 9 Spot: 22 +Scent
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:14:36 PM
trying to update head to link to correct CS. DM, can you please delete this?
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:17:46 PM
second try. Google docs has this saved as Fatine level 3, but the link goes to the level 2 sheet, which I can't even find on Google docs!
please also delete. thanks.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:23:09 PM
third try.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:26:56 PM
OOC: I have had the same problem, I just sent my new sheet to Carla and Bob.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday December 9th, 2008 12:28:57 PM
Fatine sighs quietly and leans over toward Keela. "Dose men . . . ." she mutters. "Always doin' someting. Choppin' dee grass, runnin' round crazy."
She sits back on her horse and watches as the men do their thing. She seems relatively relaxed, though she keeps her dogs on alert and her doll & needle at the ready.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Tuesday December 9th, 2008 2:57:40 PM
OOC-Sorry about the no post yesterday
Beren is already well ahead of the group exploring and hunting. When he comes upon the "den", he stops to assess. Then he quietly moves back to report what he has learned.
"We might shoot an arrow with an oily rag into the den to smoke out the animals, although the bait idea had merit as well. However, finding animals for meat around the den of a predator of this size might be difficult."
Beren does not let his guard down. Just because they have found one hole, does not mean there is not a back door for the beasts to slip out of. He suggests that as well, and then offers to search for such an opening.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 Tuesday December 9th, 2008 4:51:30 PM
Caelnin stays in the same spot, not quiet being sure what to do, but sit there quietly to see what happens. He is still slightly on edge, not really knowing what will happen or might not happen and he keeps his bow ready at all times.
Keela Tuesday December 9th, 2008 5:27:51 PM
Keela sweeps her butterflies back and forth across the entrance, hoping for some kind of reaction. If none comes, she allows them to dissipate.
"I can't send them to where I can't see," she murmurs by way of explanation. "I can do tricks like that for another half-hour or so, though."
[OOC: Prestidigitation has a one-hour duration; I'm not sure how long we've been riding since it was cast.]
Neither she nor Daisy is particularly stealthy, so Keela stays still and tries to encourage her mount to do the same.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday December 9th, 2008 9:28:32 PM
Alexi just sighs at Jet's actions. However, it isn't a bad idea to cause a distracting noise, diverting the creature's attention towards them instead of Anrete, so he joins Jet, swinging his lance left and right through the tall grass, moving parrallel with Jet.
"Give us a holler if you see something move," he calls back.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday December 10th, 2008 8:07:20 AM
Sorry for not having a post up. Cold season has hit. I will get one up when I get home from work this pm
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=15 ; d20+9=24 ; Wednesday December 10th, 2008 9:18:52 AM
OOC-No Dm post. It's terrible when real life messes with our game. :o) Get better soon.
Beren waits to see what the others want to do, and he keeps looking for the second entrance.
Search 15, move silently 24
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) d20+3=7 ; d20+3=9 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+4=18 ; Wednesday December 10th, 2008 12:09:07 PM
If Jet does not encounter a creature, he will steer Bantom off to the left, contining his search of the brush, in the hopes of finding the predator, before the group becomes the prey.
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