DM Bob & Carla Monday January 5th, 2009 11:28:50 PM
The lone Ahote waits for Jet to approach. The two meet halfway between the riders and the knoll. The Ahote keeps his hands atop the horses neck and in plain view and visibly relaxes when Jet makes a show of sheathinh his weapon. "You are not from these lands, what brings you here, and how is it that you wear our symbol around your neck outlander?" The warrior is tall and strong, several vivid scars cut across his abdomen. He handles the horse expertly, guiding the beast with almost imperceptable pressure from his knees and thighs.
Ther rest of the party sees no outward signs of aggression, and the main group of Ahote remain where they are, waiting for the results of the parlay.
"I am Honaw of the Ahote. We are hunting the beasts that consume our game and hunt our people. We saw you here." He stops and waits for the stranger to answer his questions.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=26 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=14 ; Tuesday January 6th, 2009 8:27:43 AM
Beren hears the exchange.
So this group is hunting the beasts that the party has just killed. Interesting.
He still does not move. He will wait until some more sure sign is given.
Spot 26 listen 18 --dice roller went a little crazy. I forgot to click off of it :o)
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 23/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) d20+8=21 ; d20+3=11 ; Tuesday January 6th, 2009 1:10:17 PM
"Greetings Honaw and well met. My name is Jet and we are from the settlement of Bryn Baraz a few days ride from here. He holds the pouch up with his hand and explains, "This was given to the people I am with by Istaqa whos chief is Dasan. We underwent a dream ritual and saw the pain of your people and possibly the future. We vowed to help as we could and we drank deeply in friendship that evening. In the morning when we departed, these were gifted to us and we were told Chief Dasan would be made aware of our presence and our intentions."
Jet looks him in the eyes, his smile does not fade as he continues, "Over a week ago one of our own hunting parties failed to return to camp, so we were sent out to try to find them as well as find food for the long winter. We found a trail of blood and a broken spear tip, we believe from your people. We", he turns around to include the group and seeing that he can not see everyone thinks to himself {Oh well}, "tracked the beasts back to this lair where we battled them and now they are dead." He points down to his wounded leg, "This is a recent result of the battle and there was only two. Neither escaped. Come and have a look for yourself." He turns his horse around with ease and guides their speaker to the pack horses with the creatures.
As he walks Bantom a few feet to the party members that followed him he goes on, "We have found remains of your people and some that is likely from ours also, but we are not capable of telling them apart, to return their remains to your people. We will show you what we have found." Jet dismounts and takes down the bag of bones and such for them to inspect. He also shows them the equipment so they can get their spear tips and such."
Jet is suspicious out of nature but he tries hard not to be, yet still he does intend to sense the motive of Honaw.
Caelnin strains his elfish ears. (Listen 14) Bits of the conversation drift to him on the wind. The scene out on the plain doesn't look as though it will erupt into violence.
He takes one hand off of his bow string and raises it in greeting. The arrow, however, still remains nocked.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday January 6th, 2009 7:20:02 PM
Fatine sits idly by, not really paying much attention to the conversation. She whispers a few words to one of her dogs, then leans back in the saddle, staring up into the sky with a dull look on her face. After a few minutes, she sits back up and sighs.
"We move along soon, Big Man?" she calls to Jet.
Keela Tuesday January 6th, 2009 9:14:17 PM
Keela watches and waits; the Ahote seem to prefer it when the men are in charge. Besides, she doesn't know what she could possibly say to the intimidating warriors.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday January 6th, 2009 11:29:47 PM
Honaw listens intently as Jet describes how the party comes to be where they are and what actions they have taken against the creatures that the Ahote hunt. "We have not been back to our village in many months" he explains to the fighter. "We have been hunting the foul demon creatures that plague our lands and have not heard of your meeting with Istaqa...yet you wear the totem symbols and know of the Shaman's dreams." He seems to think for a moment and then thrusts forward his hand and grasps Jet beneath teh forearm. "Welcome then friend! Let me call my men and we will see what you have accomplished."
The warrior thrusts a closed fist in the air and gently guides his horse next to Jets. His men follow, slowly closing the distance between them until by the time they have reached the knoll they are all together. "These outlanders wear the sign of the Ahote and have met with Istaqa! They have pledged to help us, and they have killed two of the Ambush Drakes." There follows a general murmering from the Ahote as they observe the carcasses of the two creatures and their associated carnage. Honaw dismounts and pokes through the bits and pieces, noting the totems bags and quivers, as well as the bones. He has no trouble separating out the remains of the Ahote victims and does so. "We will bring our dead to the sacred place and there they will be reclaimed by the spirits. They will not need these belongings" he points to the arrows, quivers and totems. "Take them with our thanks, they may prove useful to you."
Honaw points to the west where the canyon walls see to jut into the great plain. "We have seen signs of deer and antelope where the grasses narrow. There should be more than enough for you to carry, for I see no pack horses and no wagons. You may find some saplings to build a travois there as well.
Jet detects nothing but sincerity from Honaw. The Ahote warrior seems genuinly pleased and perhaps a little impressed that the party has managed to down to of the beasts while incurring so little damage themselves.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:34/37) Tuesday January 6th, 2009 11:46:51 PM
Alexi lets Jet do all the talking, but while Honaw sorts through the remains he asks the Ahote party leader, "Do you know the warrior Tocho? He bears scars much like yours. Did you two fight the same type of creature?"
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=18 ; d20+9=15 ; d20+9=28 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 8:27:05 AM
Finally, seeing that a peace has been established, Beren rises and rejoins the others. He does so with as little noise and ceremony as he can, and his weapons are put away as he rises.
He still remains loose and alert in spite of the apparent friendship.
spot 18 listen 15 move silently 28
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 23/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 10:17:38 AM
Jet grabs his forearm in kind and is glad for their relationship, then rides back to the group.
Jet sends a scowl toward Fatine's impatience then relaxes, "Getting to know new friends is worth waiting for, don't you think?" he asks, attempting to solicit some kind words from her to their native hosts.
He also asks Honaw, "Are there more of these things in this region? Do you know how they are spawned? They appear to be decedents of dragons, but not fully, so I am in wonder to their origin."
Jet is impressed with the knowledge Honaw has of anatomy and asks them, "Would you like to take the smaller creature back to your tribe with you? That will free up the strength of one of our horses for more game, as well your people may study the creature more."
As the meeting ends, Jet drinks from his skin and passes it to Honaw to drink also, as well as his men and those from Bryn Baraz. He then tosses the Ahote warrior a spare skin full of the wine he brought. "Take this my friend and enjoy it. I have heard of your own beverage and look forward to trying it someday. Thank you for the tokens of war from your people, we will use them well and thank you again for the advice on where to find game. That saved us days of hunting."
As they part Jet looks toward Beren, Anrete and Caelnin, "We have direction to go for some tasty meat, lets go hunting and get home. Ma Belles is calling me and I could use a shot of whiskey."
OOC: I think I was supposed to post for Anrete and kind of forgot, but I thought it was only for one day, he's been gone since 12/23
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 23/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 10:30:01 AM
OOC: Small correction on pack horses, we have at least Vaya, Jets pack horse with us. I thought we were allowed to bring one or two more also, but I would need to go into the archives to find it. No big deal, I just want to take back as much as we can for Bryn Baraz. I doubt it will go to waste.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) d20+8=28 ; Wednesday January 7th, 2009 10:46:06 AM
Caelnin admires the near natural grace with which the natives guide their horses as he puts up his bow and pokes the lone arrow back into his quiver.
"Ambush Drakes, huh? Good name. It's probably a good thing we were able to ambush them this time."
"Thanks for the hunting tip." He mounts up and waves to the Ahote as Jet calls for a move to the west. Once moving, the elf keeps a sharp eye out for Ambush Drakes. They didn't likely get that name without good reason. (Spot 28 Nat20)
Keela Wednesday January 7th, 2009 11:55:30 AM
Keela is relieved that the Ahote man is able to recognize and claim the bones of his kin. When he leaves, she takes a surreptitious glance at what remains. How many people do the remaining bones represent?
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:34/37) Wednesday January 7th, 2009 10:23:02 PM
Alexi eyes the large Ambush Drake, as Honaw called it. He thought of the Giant Weazel pelt he already had and how some claws or teeth sown into the pelt would look. He thinks of asking Fatine's opinion.
"Fatine, what do you think would look better with my weazel pelt, some claws or teeth?"
Eyeing the hide he ponders out loud "could make some good hide armor for someone... hmmm..."
Turning to Keela he asks, "My Lady, did your mentor ever mention anything about what portions of dragons and their kind are useful in magic spells, potions, and such?"
DM Bob & Carla d20+5=23 Wednesday January 7th, 2009 11:54:07 PM Keela watches Honaw sort through the remains and discerns that he selects only the lighter and thinner bones, those that were earlier though to be part elvish. Though the remains are incomplete, she thinks the native man removed 3 of the 9 remains leaving the bones of two dwarvish, one orchish, and 2 or 3 human corpses.
As is their usual habit, Beren and Caelnin refuse to let down their guard. The former remains quietly suspicious, while the later acknowledges the information provided by the Ahote hunters.
Honaw, like the other Ahote hunters is tall, dark, and strong with the distinctive aquiline features and slightly pointed ears of his people. However, unlike the worried and taciturn group the party first met, he is affable, and genuinely seems to enjoy the brief opportunity of companionship provided by another group of people in this wild and lonesome area. He declines Jet's offer of a swig, but accepts the fighter's gift of the spare skin of wine. He answers the questions about the Ambush Drakes, claiming that though the shaman told stories of the creature's provenance, he didn't pay too much attention since it all sounded rather improbable to him.
When Alexi mentions Tocho, Honaw looks back to his own companions and says something in his own language. One of the hunters barks a brief laugh, while the others exchange a few knowing glances. Pointing to the scars on his stomach, he whispers in a low voice, his dark eyes shining with mischieviousness, "it was Tocho's sister that gave me these! " (Bluff=23)
The Ahote remains secured, Honaw and his companions ready their horses. On taking his leave, he salutes the party calling "May the moon keep you centered. May the sun keep you dancing, and the stars shed light on your dreams."
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Thursday January 8th, 2009 8:24:16 AM
"Now are we ready to move on, or are we camping?"
The elven ranger looks as if he is ready to do either choice. His masked face gives nothing away.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) Thursday January 8th, 2009 9:11:23 AM
Caelnin chuckles at the Ahote joke, but not too loudly in the presence of Keela, and especially the spooky witch Fatine.
"Hey, whether we camp or not, I'm up for some hunting, Beren. Why don't you track something for us and we can bring it down. Be nice to have fresh meat for dinner tonight."
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 23/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) d20+3=16 ; Thursday January 8th, 2009 12:07:38 PM
Jet doesn't really get the joke but smiles and nods. He understands the dangers of a woman scorned. His disappoinment not very apparent when the Ahote turns down his offer, but he drinks deep and passes it to someone else interested anyway.
"Fare thee well my friends!" He sees them off, then turn to the group. "Let's hunt as much as we can, I would like to head back to Bryn Baraz as soon as possible before this carcass can rot off the bone." he exagerates the decomposition rate of creatures, but makes his point. "Lead on trackers."
Jet mounts up and winces at his leg. He decides to cure the wound this evening sparing spell power for now in case it is necessary before they camp.
Keela d20+9=29 ; Thursday January 8th, 2009 12:19:58 PM
At Alexi's question, Keela tries to remember what she has learned about the use of dragon parts in arcane spells. To her own surprise, the information leaps to her mind with stunning clarity. She can almost picture the page in the dusty old magic tome. [Knowledge: Arcana 29; natural 20!]
When the group is ready to depart, she collects Daisy and clambers awkwardly into the saddle.
DM Bob & Carla Friday January 9th, 2009 7:49:53 AM
The party bids farewell to the Ahote and sets out for the hunting grounds. The area pointed out by Honaw would appear to be the better part of a full days ride, albeit that would be without dragging along two carcasses, each exceeding 200 pounds.
If you intend to bring the Ambush Drakes, please describe how you intend to transport them.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) d20+1=4 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 8:37:12 AM
OOC: Jet brought Vaya, his pack horse along as well, Garth allowed us one more horse as was posted here.
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.
As well, Jet allowed the ahote to take the "smaller' of the Ambush Drakes with them if they desired. I suppose the amount of room we have depends on if they accepted the offer to study one of the creatures back in their own camp.
IC: Jet allows the trackers and hunters to do their job, as well, he looks for trees that would provide a proper suppoert for a couple of travois.
In the evening he lets the others know, "I think a fire will be safe tonight if you would like one". Before sleep and after he rubs down his horses, he sacrifices one of his first level spells and a zero level spell to cure himeself. He then removes his banded mail and replaces it with the chain shirt he wears when he sleeps and beds down for the night.
ooc: Let me know if we have an encounter and I will decide from the list somewhere above which spells I sacrifice.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) d8+1=9 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 10:15:56 AM
Duh, I rolled a d20 instead of d8. No surprise I didn't notice until later.
9 points healed
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) Friday January 9th, 2009 11:13:39 AM
Caelnin follows in Beren's shadow, his bow ready to bring down any game that the Ranger should flush out.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=14 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=13 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 8:43:00 PM
Beren takes the instruction to find fresh meat to heart. They are not near the hunting grounds the Ahote indicated, but he believes he can find something that the group can eat. He checks out the lay of the land, loooking for game trails, water holes, food sources, and other indications of animal life. His weapons are ready in case he does find something.
"I still think we should camp for the night, and start in the morning."
track 14 spot 18 listen 13
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:34/37) d20+16=31 ; Friday January 9th, 2009 9:30:38 PM
OOC: Sense Motive modifier (Honaw's claim seems to be between 'hard to believe' and 'way out there' so I'm giving Alexi a +15 mod) +15. Sense Motive roll d20 +1 +15 = 31
Alexi belts out a loud gufaw and slaps Honaw on the shoulder. "You like them wild, eh? I'll make sure I ask Tocho to introduce me to his sister next time we meet." Then he blushes as he remembers Fatine and Keela are in hearing distance. He then bids him farewell, "Honaw, well met. May your aim be true and your families never go hungry."
Alexi agrees with Beren about staying put for now and making camp near the knoll. "We need time to carve up this drake. If is is good to eat, we got meat now and don't need to hunt. If it isn't good to eat, we need to skin it so we only take the parts that could be valuable. Keela can instruct us on what parts. That way we aren't burdening us with the weight of the parts that are useless."
"By the time we get that done, we might as well spend the night, right?"
OOC: Fatine, don't forget to answer Alexi's question ["Fatine, what do you think would look better with my weazel pelt, some claws or teeth?"] OOC: I was under the impression that Honaw was going to take the smaller drake too.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) Sunday January 11th, 2009 1:23:31 AM
Jet looks to Alexi and Beren, "Nobody is doing anything more to the Ambush Drake until we get it back to Bryn Baraz and the druid can study it." His cold glare steadfast. "We don't know if these are the only ones that exist and if not, knowing more about them is important. Now mount up!"
Jet hates being like this, but it seems some of the group steps on his toes verbally a little to much. There is lots of daylight left for travel and getting back as fast as possible is imporatant in his opinion.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:34/37) Sunday January 11th, 2009 12:05:19 PM
"Er, Yes Sir!" Alexi replies to Jet's command. He sighs, however, as he ponders how to deal with the Ambush Drake's carcass. There are no trees around to cut branches to make a travois, and the brute's weight is far too much (OOC: my guess, but perhaps DMs can give us an estimate on it's weight) to load up on the pack horse Garth gave them. So Alexi takes his rope and stretches the two front legs out in front with the head and ties the two front legs and the head together, then ties the other end to Vaya's saddle.
"Satisfied? We got the hole thing now."
He then mounts up and is ready to go, lance readied.
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) Sunday January 11th, 2009 4:00:32 PM
Jet looks down at his leg, then back to Alexi, "Not entirely no, but it will have to do. Now, do you guys want to go hunting or go back to camp first, then go hunting, if Garth allows it?"
The fighter/priest attempts to satisfy the others with some choice and the camp is only a couple of days away, they could be back here in four or five to continue their mission after returning with the beast.(s?)
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Sunday January 11th, 2009 9:45:36 PM
"I no wear dese tings for beauty. Dey represent enemies I got dee better of. Now deir souls travel wit' me, help give me strength to beat others.
"Don' choose for looks. Choose what means someting. If dat beastie bit you, take dee tooth. If it cut you wit' claws, take dose. See?"
[OOC: can anyone post for Fatine this week? I am away Monday-Friday, and no takers on LnB]
Keela Sunday January 11th, 2009 10:45:50 PM
Keela shakes her head over the drake. "In ancient times," she says slowly, "I believe wizards did use parts of such animals for their spells, but modern magicks do not use them."
[OOC: First and Second Edition D&D used exotic animal bits for spells; 3.5 has largely eliminated them.]
After a moment, she adds, "but Fatine uses a different kind of magic; perhaps she will find something useful here."
DM Bob & Carla Monday January 12th, 2009 7:51:52 AM
Honaw grins back at Alexi, and wishes him well. The Ahote leave without claiming an ambush drake from the party.
The suggestion that they field dress the creatures raises Jet's ire and he insists they be returned to Bryn Baraz intact. Discussions of what bits are important, the spiritual value of claws versus teeth, and whether the flesh is edible are quickly muted. A small fire is lit and the party dines on fowl, flushed by Beren and downed by Beren and Caelnin.
The night passes uneventfully, and the party awakes to the sun low on the eastern horizon. Everything points to a warm day.
[OOC as posted earlier, the drakes are each over 200 pounds in weight]
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Monday January 12th, 2009 8:35:04 AM
"I suggest that if we are to take these things back to the settlement, we do it, and get it over with. They are already beginning to stink."
The masked ranger (WHERE'S TONTO?) is packed and prepared to leave early, and sits calmly on a nearby rock awaiting the group's decision.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) Monday January 12th, 2009 9:12:23 AM
"Jet, we have two of them," Caelnin points out. "Why don't we cut one up for meat, and bring the other back intact for ... " The elfish sharpshooter shrugs. "Whatever they can think to do to such things. If nothing else, I'm sure Tarketh will be interested."
Jet (AC: 18, HP: 28/28) Bantom (AC: 19, HP: 42) Monday January 12th, 2009 7:40:07 PM
"What is known of these creatures? Are they even edible? I know I won't be eating a man eater, you're just as good as a cannibal at that point. We have plenty of food to get us back to the camp, we don't need to cut them up. If Tarketh thinks they are good enough for food, I will ask that you are the head chef for the occasion, but we don't know if that meat will kill us or not really. We can divide up supplies to be carried between us all and leave the two pack horses free for the Ambush Drakes."
Jet wakes early and prays to the gods for his spells. Dons his armor and adds the barding onto Bantom as well. He then loads the pack horses with the carcases of the drakes and the start of a good day, he hopes, has begun.
Fatine/Sub Buzz Monday January 12th, 2009 8:06:55 PM
The witch rides toward the middle with Col on her arm or shoulder. the bird walks up and down her arms and occassionally picks at her hair. "Ouch, tupid bird! Go scout ahead and tell me if someting be amiss." Col caws loudly and takes of ahead of the group, a chance to find some worms as well as check on what is in front of the group.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:34/37) Monday January 12th, 2009 9:27:36 PM
"Hmmm...," Alexi contemplates Fatine's advice on decorating his dire weazel pelt. "Well, it didn't bite me, nor claw me, or breathe on me. So..., I'll just have to go for what instinctually I think goes best."
"Thanks Fatine. A woman's advice is always welcome," he adds, smiling.
OOC: I guess using dragon parts in magic item creation is a house rule item. Sigh.
"I guess we'll just have to wait until we get back. Dwarves ought to know a lot about dragons too, so maybe they can shed some light. I do think a tanner should dress the hides and have them displayed in the temple, though," Alexi responds to Keela's insight into dragon parts.
OOC: Alexi and all his gear weigh more than 200lbs for poor ol' Lobo so I guess a carcass isn't too much for the pack horses.
DMs Highlight to display spoiler: { During Alexi's watch, he will cut out five claws from a front paw of the smaller ambush drake and puts them in his backpack.}
After a good night's rest Alexi helps load the drakes on the pack horses and re-distribute their supplies.
"We are pretty much loaded to the hilt with no room for any game. Are we going to head back to Bryn Baraz? Might as well. We want Tarketh to have something halfway decent to look at when we get back, eh?"
Keela Monday January 12th, 2009 10:45:08 PM
Keela wrinkles her nose a little at the massive carcass. "I can't imagine these would be good to eat," she says. "Carnivores generally aren't. But we can take it back if you really want to."
Anrete Nanoc (AC17 , HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 1:22:44 AM
OOC: Hi all! I've recovered (more or less), and back in action. So erm, how do I join back in?
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 6:53:04 AM
Just catch up on the action and post as if you hadn't missed anything. :) Welcome back.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 8:35:21 AM
Seeing that no real decision has been made, Beren decides to take things as they are. Making a decision, he begins to redistribute the packs from the two pack horses, and then load the drakes onto the pack saddles. Standing around discussing it like this will find them still here by evening.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 8:36:08 AM
OOC-posted with no DM post for response. :o)
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 9:13:57 AM
"Bear's good eating." Caelnin shrugs. No one's starving. Yet. And there looks to be more game in the direction indicated by the Ahote.
The sharpshooter moves off to a large bolder, setting down atop it, he spreads out his kit of tools. Moments stretch into minutes as Caelnin ponders the bow and the tools. The shape of the bow would come to him, and when it did, he would not so much craft the bow, as merely reveal it's shape.
Fatine/Sub Buzz Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:14:19 AM
Will post tomorrow
Jet Stormway ooc Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:14:57 AM
Welcome back William!
Will post tomorrow
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday January 13th, 2009 10:17:50 PM
After Alexi and Beren assist Jet in loading the Ambush Drake carcasses on the two pack horses and redestribute their load onto the group's horses, Alexi takes out his map and writes 'good hunting' on the spot where Honaw indicated.
"I'm ready to go back, if that is what you wish, Jet."
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday January 14th, 2009 7:47:45 AM Beren begins loading the ambush drake carcasses on the two pack horses and is assisted by Alexi who takes a moment to collect a few items to decorate his pelt. Fatine and Col lead the way towards home, keeping the Three Sisters to her left and forward, she angles towards the southeast and Bryn Baraz.
The two pack horses trail behind the party, a steady stench of corruption growing as the day warms. The two horses must not only contend with the foreign smell but also the growing swarm of flies that pursue a moving feast.
The ride back to Bryn would appear to be more than can be covered in a single day's trek and as afternoon wears on the party must soon decide whether to camp or push on through the night. The skies are clear and the moon is half.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=29 ; d20+9=10 ; Wednesday January 14th, 2009 8:23:21 AM
"Do we wish to camp?"
Assuming that the party does, Beren scouts a defensible location, and gathers material for a fire. The two moldering drakes he off loads somewhere down wind from the camp. He did try to warn them about dragon flesh. Once camp is set he offeres to take the middle of the night shift, and rolls into his blankets.
spot 29 (can't beat these elvish eyes natural 20!) listen 10 (someone must be snoring natural 1!)
Jet Stormway Wednesday January 14th, 2009 9:34:53 AM
Jet would like to push on. He doesn't mind being tired and he wants to be rid of the corpses of the beasts, so he will tell the group this, "The sooner we get home the better in my eyes, but if more then three of you want to camp, we will camp. In my opinion, we can get better rest when these things are away from scavengers."'
He doesn't say anything when Alexi "takes some items to decorate his pelt" as long as it is off the larger one that was hacked open with his sword and the same one Fatine took some scales from. Jet himself does not care for trophies. Just more crap to carry around and if he had started that habit when he first became a fighter, he would indeed be wearing a lot of ornaments.
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) Wednesday January 14th, 2009 11:32:06 AM
Caelnin remained silent throughout the ride the next day. Time passes lost in thought of the crafting of bows. The sky is darkening when he comes to himself, his companions are speaking of whether to camp or to push on, and his bum, for the first time this day, becomes aware of the soreness of a day's ride.
"Either way," he says, before lapsing back into silence.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+6=22 ; Wednesday January 14th, 2009 10:21:43 PM
DMs Highlight to display spoiler: { I know I stated taking some claws from the smaller, but for all practical purposes, it just might as well be from the larger, so if is ok with you guys, I'll change it to the larger, for Jet. :) }
OOC: the 'items' were taken at night during his guard duty, but anyone helping load up the drakes would be hard pressed NOT to notice that one of the front paws of the larger drake is missing his claws. :)
Alexi ponders the age old question: To move on or to camp! That is the queston!
"Boy, I'd sure love to be away, pthew, (waves a fly away that nearly went up his nose) from these flies. I don't mind pushing it. Will the pack horses manage it ok though?"
Alexi dismounts and inspects the horses to see how well they are holding up. Handle Animal d20+6=22
Depending on Alexi's assessment of the pack horses, he will either suggest resting for a short while (1-4 hrs maybe), the night, or moving on.
He takes the second watch, if necessary.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17 , HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+7=10 ; Wednesday January 14th, 2009 10:32:01 PM
Anrete wonders if the drakes are edible, and probed with his fingers, before slicing off a small sliver of flesh to roast. Peering at the blacken meat, the savage fighter offers its to Alexi.
Fatine/Sub Buzz Wednesday January 14th, 2009 10:47:00 PM
The witch sits in her saddle and when asked to go or stay, she shrugs her shoulders, "Flys no be boterin ol Fatine don chu know. Neider do goin wid out sleep."
She continues to watch for Col and loses herself in the past.
Keela Thursday January 15th, 2009 12:09:01 AM
Keela says: "I wouldn't mind pressing on. Is there some way, though, we could give the poor packhorses a rest? We have other animals, and--well, I wouldn't mind walking for a ways."
She doesn't especially want poor Daisy to have to carry one of these beasts, either, but she's worried the packhorses may lame themselves.
DM Bob & Carla Thursday January 15th, 2009 7:41:54 AM
After brief discussion, and an examination of the horses, the party decides to take a short break to rest the pack horses and eat. Anrete removes a small sliver of flesh from the more badly damaged of the two ambush drakes and roasts it over the fire. On tasting it he finds it edible. The meat is lean and stringy and the taste is strong, but the barbarian has certainly eaten worse, and based on previous attempts at the culinary arts, this must be judged a success. Col, the witches raven returns as the sun sinks and seems to be the only party member to be interested in sharing in Anrete's feast.
By the time the party moves on, the sky has darkened considerably. The three sisters remain visible only as silhouettes against the night sky. Those with elven vision or dark vision find the travel easy. The rest find themselves relying on their horses to follow the others as the night closes in around them.
[Those with enhanced vision please make spot checks as well as a survival check to navigate the way home.]
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+5=14 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+9=25 ; Thursday January 15th, 2009 8:29:03 AM
Beren agrees with the assessment of the horses. He still wonders why they brought the drakes at all, but it is a moot point for now.
Taking the lead after the rest, he has no problem in staying to his outbound route as they return, but is still grateful when camp comes into view.
survival 14 (track) spot 19 listen 25
Caelnin AC:16 HP:21/21 (Sub/Al) d20+8=26 ; d20+7=16 ; d20=16 ; Thursday January 15th, 2009 10:22:41 AM
The stars are Caelnin's friend tonight. Each feature of the landscape comes to his elfish eyes with great clarity. He pairs with Beren in the fore. With soft whispers, he exchanges his remembrances of the landscape to aide the ranger as he guides the group home.
[u]Rolls and Actions[/i] Spot 26 Listen 16 Survival 16 (Aid Another - Beren Pass +2 to Beren's Survival Roll)
Fatine/Sub Buzz Thursday January 15th, 2009 12:06:14 PM
"I tink I be takin ol Tarketh's word on if we made a mitake on bringin da drakes back. He be knowin what id about dees tings."
Fatine travels in the dark, appreciating the comfort that comes with it, knowing these creatures are now dead.
Jet Stormway Thursday January 15th, 2009 12:16:15 PM
As Anrete consumes the flesh of the man eater, Jet tries to remember those that were lost to the creatures. He thinks he drank with a few of the dwarfs a couple of times, but he can not remember the name of the one that went on the journey and never returned.
He also wonders, if the lost party might still be out there in danger? Perhaps Jet made a mistake in returning home? Perhaps Jet should have left the drakes behind to investigate the complete loss of the previous party? Jet knows that the Ahote gave only his party the tokens of friendship, did the Ahote find the others and kill them as trespassers? He isn't sure what to believe and so many unanswered questions.
He does not want to think of the Ahote in that manner, but in many ways, friendship comes hard to the fighter priest. Perhaps that is why he keeps these fellows at arms length. Back home he would have made several attempts at kissing the ladies, but they are to close. Back home he would have taken the men out for a night on the town that would likely end in a drunken brawl of some type, but again, they are to close. It is here that he will likely see one or two of them die and he does not want his emotions to cloud his judgement and perhaps get everyone killed.
They are all to close, he just isn't used to it.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Thursday January 15th, 2009 10:43:26 PM
OOC: missed Anrete's post and offer of meat.
Having gained confidence in Anrete's cooking, and always up for a challange from the barbarian, (he had heard that barbarians highly respect such things), Alexi accepts the offer of the cooked Ambush Drake meat.
He chews purposely and says between chews "Has a - chew - kinda - chew - twang to it - chew".
Alexi looks up at the beautiful stars as the skies darken and as the two elves take the front, suggests one stay with him in back with the pack horses. "We need night eyes in front and in back. Caelnin, can you stay back here with me and help me make sure our rear is safe?"
Keela d20+1=13 ; Friday January 16th, 2009 12:48:28 AM
Keela eats sparingly. When the journey resumes in full darkness, she can see little. The experience is a little unreal, moving through a nearly featureless landscape. She only hopes the others (and Daisy) know where they're going.
[Keela does not have low-light vision, but Daisy does. :) Daisy's Spot check: 13. Mostly to keep from stepping in a gopher hole or something.]
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Friday January 16th, 2009 9:03:21 AM
OOC-no DM post to respond to
Back in camp at last, Beren takes time to brush down Red, and make sure he gets a bait of corn and oats. Then he cleans and oils all of his tack, making sure nothing is worn or rotted. Only then does he go in search of a bath for himself.
Once he is clean, he performs a similar check on all of his personal gear. He oils and cleans his chain, and the attending straps, and makes sure al of his weapons are in satisfactory condition. He checks his bowstring to make sure it is still in good shape, and then checks his spare string in his pack where it lies wrapped in oilskin.
Next, he retrieves his second quiver of arrows, and replaces those he was not able to salvage from the battle, filling his main quiver to capacity.
Finally satisfied, he settles near one edge of the camp, in the shade of a tree, and begins to whittle on a piece of wood. It is good to relax, if only for a moment.
Anrete Nanoc (AC17 , HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) d20+3=13 ; d20+3=5 ; Sunday January 18th, 2009 8:00:19 PM
Nodding approvingly at the Alexi, Anrete smiles as he swallows the remaining chunk of drake flesh. "And now we bring the spirits of the dead back with us."
As the sky darkens, Anrete retrieves his everburning torch to provide some illuminations for the humans in the party. "You guys are welcome to stay hidden at the edge, I will be bait if there are anything out there.", he muses cheerfully as he tries to figure out where they are heading.
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) Monday January 19th, 2009 8:56:35 AM
no DM post to respond to. will post later
DM Bob & Carla Monday January 19th, 2009 10:32:51 PM
The two scouts safely guide the party back to the narrow divide in the canyon walls that opens to Bryn Baraz. A small family group of skinny canids, smaller than wolves, follows the party at a safe distance, likely attracted to the smell of decomposing ambush drake. They skirt the group at the edge of all but Anrete's vision, but as they near the settlement the dogs break away and blend back into the grasses.
It is the 'wee hours' of the morning when they are challenged by guards at the now completed wall outer wall. "Who goes there?" calls a voice from a wooden tower. "Name yourselves!"
Keela Tuesday January 20th, 2009 12:07:36 AM
Keela is pleased to see that the wall is completed, and manned. She remains quiet, waiting for Jet (or somebody) to speak for the group.
Fatine [AC 16, HP 14/14] Dogs [AC 20, HP 13/13, 13/13] Mage Armor Tuesday January 20th, 2009 7:19:35 AM
"It be dee evil wizzard!" Fatine calls out. "Because if we be attacking, we certainly be dumb 'nuff for you ta see us, no?
"It be us! Open dee gate!"
Beren(AC 18, HP 23/23 Red AC 13, HP 25/25) d20+9=12 ; d20+9=29 ; Tuesday January 20th, 2009 8:28:08 AM
Beren shakes his head at Fatine's attempt at humor to the already alert guards.
"The security patrol, back to report."
This is enough for now. They were given no passwords to pass a sentry when they left.
spot 12 listen 29 nat 20
Jet Stormway Tuesday January 20th, 2009 10:25:00 AM
Jet scowls over at Fatine, his visage hidden by the dark, but on the inside he chuckles a bit.
"The names are Keela, Fatine, Beren, Anrete, Caelnin, Alexi, Jet (and Mikal if he left with us and he is now a NPC)."
Jet goes straight away to Tarketh's wagon or his abode, where ever he is and has the man roused before much else is done with the drakes. "If you all want to get some shut eye, you are dismissed, but you are also welcome to join me to see the druid if you like."
Caelnin Tuesday January 20th, 2009 6:38:50 PM
Caelnin let's out a small grin at Fatine's humour as it amuses him. But who knows what the guards are thinking.
As he heads into the complex, he goes to the stables and gives Huetheria a rest, patting her on her on the head as he moves back into the night.
Caelnin then moves off towards where Tarketh most likely would be. "If I'm up, I might as well stay up for a bit longer"
Anrete Nanoc (AC17 , HP32/32), Copper (AC17, HP22/22) Tuesday January 20th, 2009 8:36:11 PM
Anrete burped loudly, but said nothing as he plucks out a flea from Copper.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:28/28) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday January 20th, 2009 9:18:14 PM
Alexi yawns and chuckles. He's too tired to be witty so he's glad someone else beat him to it.
Once inside, curiosity spurs him on to follow Jet. Tarketh may not want to examine the Ambush Drakes this night, but he wants to see his face when they plop them down at his feet.
Sleep will come later, and he doesn't plan on getting up early.
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