Torryn was with the girls, so that would have been the pink tent. As usual, she left her spear and bow behind.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 6d6=23 ; Wednesday September 13th, 2023 7:42:15 PM
"Manalo, you're strolling during a sprint. " Ash jokes. I'll take care of it.
The mage waves his hands, and points to a location (L17), and drops a Fireball to catch all creatures in the goldust spell, as well as two on drack.
Fireball, 26 dmg reflex dc 18 for half.
GM Jon - Night 2 - Other side of camp Wednesday September 13th, 2023 9:02:34 PM
Gnubert, guarding the kids in the blue tent, calls out to the goblins to surrender … he doesn’t hear any replies, just pissed off replies about the goblins going to “feast on yur legs later tonight!”
Manolo moves up behind his friend and takes a tactical view of things Highlight to display spoiler: { These goblins have their normal weapons, but also nets and bags strapped to their backs}
Mortimer calls upon his magics again – slamming bolts of darkness into G13, and G15 … G13 drops to the ground, his chest smoking from the bolts, G15 roars out in pain, ”I’m gonna find you and eat your eyes!”
Torry, having her target killed before she had a chance to attack, moves and attacks G16 but it bobs as she tries to strike
Loryn, knowing Gnubert is also guarding the kiddos, calls upon their magic and slams three magical bolts into G18 … who isn't able to bob out of the way, and falls dead as the bolts strike
Drack attacks G10, who isn’t blind, and drops it with one hit, Drack then spins and slams his elven curved blade into G11, and drops that goblin too
Ash not wanting to miss his chance, summons a small burst of fire, that seems to grow bigger until it slams into the midst of the blinded goblins – the blast kills them all, and starts a ground fire
Mole appears to be communing with something as he is surrounded by a cloud of dirt and stone
As this fiery explosion occurs, the smell of smoke seems to also be coming from the other side of camp
The last goblin, throws down his weapons, crosses his arms and looks at Drack and speaks in common, ”Parlay!”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 d20=5 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 5:47:14 AM
Torryn wasn't about to hit anyone or anything that wasn't fighting back. She remained on guard though. Goblins were renowned for being tricky. then there was the smell of burning: not just from the spectacular, if very grisly, fireball, but from the opposite side of camp. That was concerning.
(Perception: 15 to determine what is actually happening.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 14th, 2023 8:49:13 AM
Drack holds the swing he was about to take, and calls over his shoulder.
“Parlay? Did he say parlay? I hate parlay.”
“Gnubert, stay with the kids in case another force arrives.”
Drack will speak with the goblin in common. “What do you have to offer us? You are the last one alive. We want information. Who sent you and for what purpose? I can guess kidnapping the children based on the bags you brought with you.”
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+4=18 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 3:32:24 PM Parlay?....With a goblin? Loryn was a bit at a loss. he never considered the goblinoid creatures anything but deserving of a quick blade or spell. His spell would run it's course very soon and with the smell of smoke from elsewhere, he sent the Lights moving across the camp to cover as much area as he could. Dancing Lights move 100' / round to scan across the camp area Perception 18
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+6=22 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 5:46:02 PM
Ash scans the distance opposite of his fireball, looking for a source of that smell. Perception 22
If nothing, he heads to his fireball remenants and starts stomping out the fires.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 d20+13=27 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 7:06:31 PM
Gnubert continues to stand guard just in case, goblins were known for thier tricks of course. The cleric looks over the battlefield for danger as he stands his duty post (Perception DC 27)
GM Jon - Night 2 - Other side of camp Thursday September 14th, 2023 7:17:58 PM
With just one goblin left, and it appears to be surrendering maybe, Torry catches a waft of something Highlight to display spoiler: { The smell is burning cloth or canvas }
Drack appears caught off guard, holding his sword in preparedness for a strike.
The goblin doesn’t look subdued, the expression on his face is like a child in the honey jar, and not caring if they get into trouble. “We out tracking and hunting. We see humans moving around here. We move in close. They talk of children, and teachers. Our tribe decided raiding a good idea.” He turns and looks at all his dead and charred tribesmen, ”Not smart. Should have tracked you and listened.”
Loryn, shaking his head at the conversation taking place, sends his lights darting back to the other side of the camp. He too smells something Highlight to display spoiler: { The smell is burning cloth or canvas }
Ash begins stampingg out the aftereffects of his fireball, and catches a wiff of something burning, that he hadn’t caused Highlight to display spoiler: { The smell is burning cloth or canvas }
Gnubert, maintaining his post with the children hears something Highlight to display spoiler: { What you hear are goblins laughing out in the woods around the AJ22 area }
Mortimer and Manolo help in putting out the ground fires.
Mole continues communing, though the wind around him seems to be picking up intensity
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 7:48:31 PM
Manolo shouts, "They have nets as well".
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; Thursday September 14th, 2023 7:50:13 PM
Manolo helps with putting out the ground fires and waits to see what are they going to do now.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 Friday September 15th, 2023 6:15:38 AM
Torryn quickly moved to follow the source of the smell of burning. She hoped that Drack would keep an eye on the lone goblin, as this could well be a distraction for yet another assault. She was grateful for her magical wards as a net would have a hard time ensnaring her!
(OOC: I haven't relocated Torryn as I am unsure of where the 'burning' is. Please move her accordingly.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life d20+4=18 ; Friday September 15th, 2023 8:38:15 AM
As far as fire suppression is concerned, Mortimer lends his help by throwing a few goblin bodies onto hot spots to help smother the flames. Flesh bags, filled with all sorts of fluids, are not very flammable. He leaves the fire to Manolo's most capable hands.
Mortimer is more concerned with all the other goblins lurking in the darkness. He speaks a few dark words and his become flooded with a pitchy blackness. He begins to move around the southern edge of camp.
(Mortimer activates his Darkvision. 60' range. Duration: 6 hours.)
(Perception: 18)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life Friday September 15th, 2023 8:41:17 AM
(ooc: I left out an important noun ... "his eyes become flooded with a pitchy blackness.")
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Friday September 15th, 2023 10:34:06 AM
Ash finishes stomping on the flames before him, before turning around and making his way to the other side of the camp and the burning smell.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Friday September 15th, 2023 12:39:22 PM
Drack, not knowing what is going on elsewhere, continues his discussion with the goblin. "You don't take nets and people sized bags to a raid. Who sent you? if there are others of your kind still in the area, know that you will be the first to die. Tell me the truth. Who sent you and why are you really here, or I will finish this conversation permanently"
Active effects: bless, +1 on attacks and saves vs. fear, duration 6 minutes Divine Favor, +2 to hit, +2 to damage, duration 1 minute
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday September 15th, 2023 3:26:53 PM
With several of the others, whom Loryn knew were far more perceptive than himself, stalking down the source of the smell, He moves over to Drack calling out his suspision. Smells like cloth or canvas. Check the tents" The Dancing Lights Wink out He reminds Drack that they have been here a couple of days
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 d20+13=24 ; Friday September 15th, 2023 7:31:08 PM
Gnubert hearts the laughter in the woods, and speaks loudly enough to be heard by his friends, "There are goblins out to the southwest of us laughing. This is a setup to catch us spread out, and off guard!" Gnubert casts dancing lights, and sends the four orbs off in that direction while maintaining watch over the children. (Perception DC 24)
GM Jon - Night 2 - Other side of camp Sunday September 17th, 2023 1:32:13 AM
(OOC: Sorry about not posting, we have some kind of non-covid bug going around work, and I haven't felt like getting on my computer for more than a few minutes.)
Between Ash, Mortimer and his unconventional fire suppresant, and Manolo, the fires started by the fireball are put out.
While putting the fires out, Mortimer takes a moment to dip into his magics and his eyes change color to black pools...with this vision he doesn't see anyone beyonf the fireball remains, other than a deer looking back at him with some tender twigs in its mouth
While this is happening Torry begins moving back to the other side of camp.
Gnubert creates four bobbing and dancing lights that spread out to illuminate the forest again, warning his friends that "This is a setup!"
Drack asks point blank "Who sent you, answer or die. And we'll know if you're lying!" Loryn joins Drack in the "Parlay" with the goblin, asking "Who's your tribe and your chief?"
What Torry sees is that the forest-side of both the dark and light green tents are on fire, not ragin, but its struggling to catch
Goblin, still has his arms crossed, He doesn't seem to fear Drack or Loryn, and puffs out his chest, " Broken Spear Tribe. We have taken over this region from the weakling clans who were here. We knew humans were coming here with children, you talk alot and too loud. Captives make good slaves, and good food. Chief is Groudon, Orc Slayer. He sent us. Current slaves not much good. Need new ones to maintain camp and cook pots."
OOC2: If y'all spot double letters like P's and U's, either my keyboard or word software is having an issue
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 Sunday September 17th, 2023 7:44:01 AM
"Oh! Fire! there's a fire here! Um, two actually. They've set the tents on fire....a bit." Torryn exclaimed as loudly as she could, which sadly wasn't very loud. Her voice was simply not accomplished at shouting or singing. Still, she hoped that it sufficed. She had no water with which to extinguish the flames, but could extinguish them by smothering them. Her tactic was a simple one: collapse the tent and use that material to suffocate the burgeoning flame. However, she could only do this to one tent at a time. She elected to complete this task for the light green tent first. It struck her that they really ought to spread out and be vigilant, but when faced with such numbers as had arrived, she had her doubts that it was the best approach.
(OOC: Torryn simply intends to knock the tent flat and then trample the part that will most effectively starve the flame. She'll then do the samew for the other tent - unless assistance arrives beforehand.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; d20=13 ; Sunday September 17th, 2023 7:55:21 PM
Manolo tries to figure out if he heard anything about the goblins or the chief, or something related to the Broken Spear Tribe.
Local knowledge 22
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+6=24 ; Sunday September 17th, 2023 9:58:29 PM
Ash moves towards the fires on the tents and starts stomping and putting them out. He keeps scanning the woods for another attack. Perception 24
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 d8=7 ; d20=20 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 7:38:49 AM
"Great work, Ash." Torryn said encouragingly. Seeing him scouting the environs as well as stomping most effectively, Torryn thought it wise to do the same. Why was everyone else always so much more sensible than her? Maybe it was because she was the youngest, or maybe it was simply her flighty nature. That had proven remarkably resistant to both her father's and Agratha's determined interventions.
Torryn looked around for signs of more trouble.
(OOC: Please ignore the d8 roll. I've no idea how that got in there. A Natural 20 for Perception. I've peaked!)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life d20+7=26 ; d20+26=43 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 10:30:59 AM
Mortimer has never known deer, or any other woodland creatures, to use tender twigs. "You cheeky li'l bastards!" he states with a touch of respect for their tactics. (Disbelieve Will Save: 26.
He mutters a few more words of power and gains an uncanny swiftness.
(Mortimer casts Expeditious Retreat on himself. +30ft Speed.)
Mortimer goes bounding after four-legged arsonist; with leaps and bounds if necessary.
(Acrobatics: [long jump]: 43.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+7=13 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 12:02:32 PM
Drack moves to help put out the fires, and keep an eye on the North side of camp for the Goblins that started them.He also makes sure that Gnubert is still guarding the kids. (perception check 13)
"Loryn, if he does anything, end him"
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K 3d4+3=12 ; d20+4=20 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 12:20:28 PM "Chief is Groudon, Orc Slayer and the Broken Spear Tribe eh?" Loryn responds with confirmation "I know goblins are known for being stupid and unable to count well. But in less than the time it takes you to pee, we killed all of you and your dogs from 2 directions. We can kill the rest of you and then your tribe, or you can pack and run so when we come hunting you, we dont find you."
Loryn draws his slivered Hook hammer, "Pick one"
Loryn Readies for him to run with a Magic Missile spell Dmg 12 Perception 20
GM Jon - Night 2 - Other side of camp Monday September 18th, 2023 6:01:16 PM
Torry discovers that the green tents are struggling to burst into flames, calls out for aid, and knocks the light green tent over with the intention to leap and dance upon it until the fires are out, while checking out the area around her
Manolo thinks about goblins for a moment Highlight to display spoiler: { They seem to be a new tribe to the region. their Chief is said to be smarter that most goblinoids }
Ash runs to Torry's side and begins stomping out the flames on the downed tent ...
Mortimer observes the deer, who is eating, and prepares to charge it, when the deer pops its head up, sniffs the air, drops the food out of its mouth and halls butt the opposite direction of the fires
Drack directs Loryn to "Deal with the goblin," as he runs to help with the burning tents
The Goblin mutters something under it's breath, then replies, "Kill me so I die with honor. I refuse to run!"
For Torry Highlight to display spoiler: { what you see is puzzling. It looks like all the items in the two tents has been thrown out the back side of the tents, and food, clothes, and other items perhaps taken from the pile of stuff left. you do see two sets of tracks, goblin sized heading into the woods }
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 d20+13=17 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 7:21:56 PM
Gnubert continues to guard the kids, and pokes his head inside to do a quick count to make sure he isn't missing anyone. "It is going to be ok . Just let us deal with this mess out here and we will get you all home safely." the cleric whispers to the children. Gnubert pulls his head back, and scans the area for danger (Perception DC 17)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; Monday September 18th, 2023 9:27:12 PM
Manolo tells everybody the fact or rumor he just remembered.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 Tuesday September 19th, 2023 7:54:27 AM
"Hey! It looks like they've taken some food and clothing." Torryn informs all within earshot as she finished trampling the end of the canvas to fully extinguish the flame. She then turned to Ash.
"Ash, we'd better tackle the next tent first, but do you see those track. I'd say there were at least two of them that ran off into the woods. Do you think maybe they are just hungry?" Perhaps she was being naïve. Her main concern was the safety of the children, not the equipment. As long as the goblins didn't get near the children she was prepared to give them the benefit of the doubt. Still, were the sacks for the kids or for food, or both? Drack was much better than her at intuiting such things.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Tuesday September 19th, 2023 7:59:52 AM
" Maybe, Torryn " Ash replies. " The sacks do make me think there were more nefarious plans.. but maybe they were just hoping to get some food. I don't see why a group of goblins would attack as a distraction, but goblins are dumb for a lack of a better word. "
He goes to the second tent with her and helps put out the flames.
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:49:28 AM
Loryn furrows his brow, "Wish granted." He casts Magic Missile Dmg 12
To the corpse he says, "Goblins run all of the time. It's what you are known for across the Wold"
Loryn turns to frown again. They snuck in right under our noses and got into several tents, started a fire and escaped without being seen or heard. The gnome was not happy with the implications. Had to be magic and that made smart goblins and that made wiping them out more urgent and more difficult. Loryn picks the nearest tent and heads in for a quick inspection.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+7=11 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2023 9:42:39 AM
Drack will patrol the camp while the others investigated the damage. Maybe the goblins were done for the night, and maybe they were not. Either way, he wanted to make sure he could intercept anything coming near the camp.(perception 11)
Active effects: bless, +1 on attacks and saves vs. fear, duration 6 minutes Divine Favor, +2 to hit, +2 to damage, duration 1 minute
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; d20=6 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2023 7:25:32 PM
Manolo will help Drack for a while.
Perception 16
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life d20+4=22 ; d20+10=26 ; Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:19:35 PM
Mortimer was sure he saw tinder twigs in that deer's mouth. Almost as if someone had said there were. He also can't fathom why this deer thought this locale was a right fine spot for an early morning snack. After all, the smell of blood in the air, the shrieks and cries of the dead and dying, not to mention all the fire and smoke, produce such a pleasant ambiance for sampling the tasty delights provided by Mother Wold's garden. With a sigh, Mortimer states, "Creatures, daft as these, were only meant to be food!" He decides that next time he sees that deer, he will make sure it lives up to that potential.
Mortimer takes his time to look for anything of interest (Perception: 22). "Everybody accounted for, yeah?" he asks. "Looks like we has enough gobbie meat for a decent breakfast." The statement was said in jest (instead of ingest :). It was meant for the others hiding and listening in the dark. (Bluff: 26)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life, darkvision, expedite Tuesday September 19th, 2023 8:21:59 PM
(ooc: adding active spells to the post name line.)
GM Jon - Night 2 - Other side of camp Tuesday September 19th, 2023 9:46:30 PM
Gnubert keeps the kiddos from panicking, while keeping a weather eye out for trouble
Manolo shares what he remembers of the goblins' tribe "They seem to be a new tribe to the region. The Chief is said to be smarter that most goblinoids."
Torry and Ash get the fire out on the light green tent then turn to the dark green one. Torry ponders whether the goblins were just hungry, however, Ash reminds her that the goblins did come with sacks ands planned a distraction, so they were probably up to no good.
Loryn complies with the goblins' wishes, and uses magic to end the goblins' life. Loryn then reminds the now deceased goblin, "Your race is known for running by the way!"
Drack, with Manolo in tow, check out the edges of the campsite. They both find the tracks that Torry pointed out, and best guess, the two goblins that ran, stoppepd somewhere and then snuck back into camp to cause mayhem.
Mortimer watches the deer bound away. What the deer was chewing on were young stemmed plants, that resembled twigs and sticks, but that are sweet to the tongue. Thinking aabout food, Mortimer wanders back into camp asking who is hungry for goblin surprise
What Mortimer, and the rest of you find after cleaning the dead bodies away: Each of the 22 goblins were wearing - leather armor and using light wooden shields. They also had short swords and short bows, and at this point there's around 200 useable arrows. Each goblin also had some pieces of trimmed obsidian (so no sharp edges) - enough for each PC to gain 5 apiece. After assessing them, each piece is worth 10gp.
Once everything is settled down, the party realizes that Mole is gone. Where he was standing is a note, "My friends I've been called away. Once I am free of my obligation, I may return."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:26 F10: R11 W:13 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 5:03:41 AM
"Oh, Mole is gone then and we don't know for how long." Torryn observed somewhat needlessly as everyone could read. "I guess it must be important" What was also important, was caring for the children. Torryn entered the tent in which they were sheltering.
"Well done everyone! You were all quiet as mice and that was perfect, because then, we could focus on bashing Goblin heads without worrying about you. SO - you guys get a reward." She smiled and let the excitement build. It was an excellent distraction from the fear that had pervaded the tent when she entered. She then distributed the five pieces of obsidian that she'd been given. Five didn't provide enough for everyone, but she had no doubt at all that Drack would ensure that every child received one. "Those will buy you some treats when you get back and your parents will certainly appreciate the spare change that you give them." It was only then that she remembered her bow and spear. How could she be so forgetful? Again!
"Dracky will be along shortly, or I'll be back with the rest of those little gems - yes, they are real. Until then, sit tight and play Mice. We'll tell you when the nasty goblins are really gone." With another broad grin Torryn disappeared back out of the tent to belatedly collect her spear and bow.
"Is that it?" She asked no one in particular.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 8:41:04 AM
Once Torry catches Drack, and asks about the obsidian, he hands his over for her to distribute.
"Once the danger seems to have passed, and everyone gathers back in the camp, Drack will mention "They will likely return, and in greater numbers. The safest thing to do would be to head back with the kids, but i think that they need to stay out here for the full duration. Should we relocate this camp, and see if we can find a better and safer spot? Goblins usually aren't smart enough for a two pronged attack, so its apparent they have learned some tactics."
"Depending on what the goblins took, we may be low on food as well. Either we hunt, or one of us goes back to town during the day for supplies. Probably Torry since she brought her horse. Thoughts?"
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+8=28 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2023 10:12:57 AM "we've a couple more hours until dawn, at which point we take the children and what we can from this back home. We may be the furthest out, but this new chief and tribe may also be a danger to the other two groups. The kids can learn skills other than hiding at a later date."
Loryn nods to Torrynashkabbeth, "Brilliant idea." Loryn sees to it that each of the children is gifted with one of the pieces of obsidian and then the rest distributed among the party
"Equal shares and equal parts Torrynashkabbeth." for ease of math how about we each get 3 at 10gp each Appraisal DC 28
"Thanks, Loryn!" Torryn beamed in delight. She'd actually had a good idea!
"I'm pretty sure that those good people didn't send their kids out to be target practice for goblins and like Dracky said, they are using smarter tactics. What if we're too tough and they go after one of the other groups nearer to town? I think we need to take them back and then get the others back too. We can go have a 'a word' or two with this new chief and see if we can't get him to shift his priorities a bit. Seriously though, he's lost a LOT of people here already. How many more can he bring? I guess we wait until dawn and then decide. Goblins won't be attacking in daylight....will they, Dracky?"
(OOC: Shield has now expired. Header adjusted.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:52/42. shield, false life, darkvision, expedite Wednesday September 20th, 2023 4:53:55 PM "Yeah, good thinkin'. Let's return them in the same condition we found'em." He then looks at his tent and adds, "Now, did those li'l buggers run off with any of our bits and bobs?" Mortimer checks his bedroll and haversack that Nuts, his petrified squirrel, was guarding. He may be made of stone, but he looks furry and furious!
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 7:15:00 PM
Gnubert sighs in relief when it appears the enemy is gone. The cleric tucks his obsidian shards into Loryn's hands and smiles. "What do you mean Mole is gone? Where did he go? I do not understand. He just vanished? What in the name of the Gods is going on?" Gnubert sighs and takes a deep breath. You are just on edge. It has been a busy night. It is ok. he mutters to himself, under his breath.
Gnubert looks at the others," perhaps we should take inventory of anything that has been taken. If they are using dogs they could track the children back to the village, and we certainly do not want that. Not to mention if they have burnt a few tents we should be prepared to have teh children sleep in the tents, and the rest of us around them. Moving before sunrise would be most unwise."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; Wednesday September 20th, 2023 7:55:07 PM
Manolo asks ,"Shouldn't we give the weapon to the kids?....It might come in handy."
GM Jon - Night 2 - almost to dawn Wednesday September 20th, 2023 9:44:23 PM
OOC: My responses are gonna be wonky the next few days - I'm flying to Dallas to walk for my masters ... I'm taking my laptop, but there's a 3 hour time difference.
The fires are all out. The two goblins who had run off, came back and stole food and clothing out of the two green tents, and scattered other gear between the back of the tent and the forests' edge.
Torry realizes that Mole is missing and communicates that to the party. She then moved to the tent where the kids were. She praised the children for being so quiet during the battle, and for staying out of mischief. She goes so far as to give her shiny rocks out to five of the kids, with a promise that "Uncle Dracky" would make sure the rest got shiny rocks too.
Drack agrees once Torry finds him, and he hands over three more pieces of obsidian.ack then discusses the possibility that the goiblins may return. The two choices Drack provides are: "Return to town early" or "Relocate to a location of our choosing."
The discussion of hunting for food, is met with several of the kids stating, "If you're going hunting can we come too?"
Loryn listens and then shares that once dawn breaks take the kiddos back to town, and then after all the kids have a piece of obsidian, redistributing the remaining pieces amongst the party (3 pieces each, each worth 10gp) For Loryn Highlight to display spoiler: { Whomever trimmed these pieces down knew what they were doing so that the edges won't cut, and they didn't take a huge amount off of each piece either }
As Torry, Mortimer, and Loryn discuss returning early, the kids all start talking at the same time, then Makaela pops out, plops her hands on her hips, and pouts, "We can't go back early. We'll be the laughing stock. No one will want to take us as apprentices. Can't we stay longer? I for one want to learn more about how Torry fights, she's beautiful and a dancer (these are tinged with jealousy). I know the boys want to spend time with Mortimer and Drack. Um, what did you say Mondo?" Mondo pops his head out, and mumbles, "They kicked ass!" He then pulls his head back in, while his friends laugh at him for cursing.
Gnubert takes a moment to catch his breath before joining in on the conversation, shocked to hear that Mole is gone. He then prompts that an "Inventory should be taken" and that reassigning folks and kids to the tents is a solid idea.
Manolo, lookinf at the pile of goblin equipment, ponders, "Should we arm the kids?" The kids of course are all for getting to carry weapons like the adults...
OOC2: I don't know who was sleeping in those two tents - I know two of y'all said you took everything you own with you when the combat started. the goblins' main task was to grab food, and then whatever else they could grab. So if there was food, spare clothes, and blankets in either of those tents, that stuff is now all gone
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Wednesday September 20th, 2023 11:01:17 PM
" so they're nervous if being made fun of, so lets have some fun with it. Lets tell the story that we were surprised and the kids actually fought off the goblins. I mean they're goblins, a young child can take care of them. We'll tell the people that matter the truth obviously, but these kids can look like real heroes and give them a leg up on life. "
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:22 F10: R11 W:13 Thursday September 21st, 2023 3:33:39 AM
"I'm not sure we should go that far." Torryn replied hesitantly. She was not comfortable with the lie. "They did however, help greatly in adhering to instruction and not revealing themselves. That DID play an important part in how things turned out. As to the 'never getting apprenticeships', that's just ridiculous. Every employer wants someone that listens to what they're told and actually complies.....that's why I struggled and had to stay at home." It didn't strike Torryn that starting your life based on lie was a good start at all.
"Let's all collect everything we can and find out how much is missing. That includes the youngsters. They can definitely help with that." Torryn was relieved that she'd been with the girls in the pink tent. her bow and spear were safe. It would have been embarrassing if she'd lost those. Worse, having the bow in the hands of the enemy would have caused a lot of woe; of that she was certain. She then addressed the children.
"Hey, everyone, listen up. I need you to collect everything you can find, but stay IN the campsite. Pile it up as neat as you can so we can see what's missing. That would be awesome if you could do that. Oh, and while you're doing it, keep an eye open for more goblins returning. They might, and they might see you as easy targets; so everyone grab a goblin weapon. You are to be armed at all times." Torryn knew that none of them would have held a goblin weapon before. It would be exciting and distracting. Also, to go back with such trophies would offset considerable embarrassment. Ash's idea to portray them as heroes could be amended to still salvage much from the situation. As to whether they did return immediately; she felt it the wisest course, but it needed to be a team decision.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 21st, 2023 8:15:00 AM
Drack just nods and says "So be it" when Loryn declares they are going home.
He doesn't give too much thought to Mole's departure. Whatever called him away must have been important. Drack just hopes all is well.
Once the kids chime in their fears of returning, Drack turns to Loryn and quietly says. "This is important to them and their future. I think you should reconsider returning. Let us find another location.We can send one person back to town on spot to spread the word of the goblins. It may even be a good idea for us and the kids to keep moving, and trying to find one of the other camps might be a good idea. they may have also come under goblin attack."
GM Jon - Night 2 - almost to dawn Thursday September 21st, 2023 10:25:29 AM
OOC: A thought i had last night while packing ... as the kids will be armed, each one of y'all pick one ... should we need to roll for defending themselves, I'll let the teachers test the kiddos learning (that's said in a Texas drawl) ... are y'all giving them only the swords, or bow and arrow too, or should I determine which kids asked for what, or just go with Nick's idea of only swords ... I'm gonna let y'all decide
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday September 21st, 2023 11:34:34 AM
Loryn moves a few steps to the side with Drack and keeps his voice down.
"Not dying is also important to their future. Anyone of these kids would be dead in less than a second in combat with a goblin or one of their war dogs. You and I both know that. We stay out here and one of them dies, maybe more than one. I don't want to have that conversation with a parent back home"
Hearing something about hunting he shouts back to the group, "Hey! No one is going hunting."
he turns back to Drack. "All of us, not the kids, need to be in agreement on what we're going to do."
With the kids currently distracted getting weapons, Loryn calls out, No bows, just swords!" and cleaning up the campsite.
Loryn gets the whole hero crew together. "We need to have a conversation on what to do. Drack has suggested that perhaps we could stay out and stay on the move. Hike and camp, circling back towards town. doing what we can to instruct our charges and perhaps keeping them all alive. I am willing to go that route if everyone else is. I believe the best and safest course for our charges is to get them home at dawn and arrange to come back out after we deal with this new tribe. Everyone needs to weigh in here. Ash? Manolo? Mortimer? Gnubert? Torrynaskabbeth? Drack? Home or on the move?"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 21st, 2023 2:24:34 PM
“I think we stay out here. We send Torry to town on spot with word of what happened while the rest of us clean up the camp and get ready to move. We wait for Torry to quickly inform them and see what they want us to do. If the town wants us to return, we do. If they don’t, then we move and camp every night and teach the kids what we can while doing it. That is my opinion.”
Torryn respected Drack greatly. He always seemed to know exactly what to do or say, but in this instance she had to disagree.
"I'm with Loryn. I don't want to be the one to tell a parent that their child is dead because they were worried about failing this ... experience. I'd say that with everything that's happened they've already passed. I vote that we return. That beings aid, I'll abide by the majority decision." It was rare to see Torryn so serious, but it wasn't just their lives that they were risking.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Thursday September 21st, 2023 7:09:16 PM
Gnubert looks around at the others arming the kids, and sighs softly while talking to himself, this is a bad idea. Children tend to be over confident without adding weapons, and bravado to the mix. Gnubert starts at Loryn's words, "Straight back home is the best course of action. Then we can come back , and do well what we do."
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; d20=16 ; Thursday September 21st, 2023 8:40:13 PM
Manolo stays aloof for a few seconds. It feels weird.....he remembers first time meeting Lanliss, The battle for Effacia. He starts to have tears at his eyes, Lady Barleybloom and her -Tokens of my Confection, 'I miss home', he thinks. He moves away from the others for a few more moments.
He stands tall and goes towards the kids not caring what about the others say "Listen to ME!, I am not planning on anyone of you ending up on deaths step in front of Gragul!", He says passionately. He plagiarizes something Lanliss told him "The things we do and places we go are no place for children !", "You all have eagerness to fight but your body is still frail, you don't have the experience or the knowledge and you barely have armor."........ ....."We are returning, you only fight if we die or we tell you to fight.,Got it ?!"
Intimidate or Diplomacy 25 or 23
OOC: unless DM thinks something else to use as a skill or another roll needed. OOC: stole the sentence from Keepers of the Vale, Chris J, Velarin
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 21st, 2023 10:11:14 PM
“Fair enough. We return home. We should try and train them a little more when we are not too far from town then. Give them something to remember and be able to tell their friends and family about.”
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Thursday September 21st, 2023 11:02:16 PM
Ash liked his idea of the kids looking like the heroes, but apparently the others didn't. So ash shrugged and shelfed it.
"I assumed as much that we'd head right home."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:22 F10: R11 W:13 Friday September 22nd, 2023 9:38:17 AM
"It's for the best." Torryn told the children, a little intimidated herself by the fervour of Manny's speech. "Anyway, Dracky and I will be delighted to teach you some 'special' moves along he way; that is, if you want to learn them. I mean, if you want to stay and get eaten by goblins...." She smiled broadly at the end, clearly teasing the children, who she knew loved grisly tales. Hopefully, they didn't want to play an active part in those tales.
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday September 22nd, 2023 10:26:45 AM
Loryn takes a step back as Manolo talks to the children. A little fire, good to see.
"Settled, we get the kids out of danger"
Loryn returns to his tent to lie down for a a short nap. His watch was almost over and at 4am, he was tired. An hour or so would do wonders.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Friday September 22nd, 2023 12:44:42 PM "Agreed. Though it may be useful to teach them basic defense techniques ... now that they're armed. Human and gnome children are the goblin's favorite meat. I ought ta know."
GM Jon - Night 2 - almost to dawn Friday September 22nd, 2023 3:29:00 PM
With a few hours from dawn, the group, including the kiddos, moves what gear is left from the two green tents. The tents are salvageable as they were treated against most weather conditions. They just smell bad.
The kids find another 12 arrows, which look like they were dropped on the ground.
An idea was tossed out about the "kiddos" being the ones who ran off the goblins. That idea gets shot down fast.
At the mention of hunting, Loryn puts his foot down, exclaiming, "No Hunting!"
Loryn and Drack then discuss weapons, and each Child is handed a goblin short sword in a sheath. The boys greedily accept them, and practice drawing and sheathing them
Amber and Dandila, decline the swords, moving to Torry instead and asking, "Will you teach us to fight like you do?"
Makaela and Celeste both accept swords, move away from the boys, and they pracice drawing, sheathing, and then they appear to be discussing strikes they observed the party making while they peeked out the tent during the combat.
Loryn asks for a vote on staying or going:
Loryn votes to return Drack says "We stay, but hike to a new spot." Torry advocates for retunring, but will accepts the groups decision if it is to stay Gnubert agrees that returning is the best course of action Manolo ponders his past for a moment, and then approaches the children, voiceing his choice of "returning, and the children only using their weapons if told" Ash votes to return Mortimer advocates for teaching the kids defensive moves, something that can be started on the way back to town
The children all group up and hold a whispered conversation, then Foxxglove gets shoved forwards. It is evident he doesn't want to be the spokesperson, "We appreciate what you all have taught us, and we would like to learn what else we can on the way home. These goblins, we've had raids, smaller numbers and they took mostly food and animals. Letting the Mayor know would be a good, umm, idea. Can we have breakfast first.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Friday September 22nd, 2023 3:49:37 PM
(ooc: Mortimer said "Agreed," in response to Loryn's statement. Sorry if that wasn't clear.)
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday September 22nd, 2023 4:19:39 PM
Because it is still 4am and dark, Loryn stays put in his tent and gets some shut eye.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/35 ; d20=16 ; Friday September 22nd, 2023 9:17:02 PM
'Manolo thinks about the breakfast for a second and will help in preparing or hunting/salvaging for breakfast.
Aid another 16
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Saturday September 23rd, 2023 3:56:34 AM
"Breakfast is an excellent idea." Confirmed Torryn. "We just need to ask Loryn nicely about that. As you two.." She turned to Amber and Dandila. "Of course. I'd be honoured to teach you, but first we need to fix those tents. Come along, I'll show you a neat trick." With that she took the two girls to the light green tent and kneeling beside it, invoked her fey magic to 'mend' the tent. That done, she moved along to the dark green tent and repeated the process.
(OOC: Such time has passed that her 'Fey Armour' spell has dropped. Header adjusted.)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Saturday September 23rd, 2023 7:23:52 AM
Ash will stay awake and help with breakfast. His gear eas easy enough to pack, and Oslo just needed a quick feed and left to wander by himself a few minutes.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Saturday September 23rd, 2023 12:50:01 PM
As some decide to go back to bed, Mortimer instead retrieves his haversack from his tent. From inside, he pulls out his trusty shovel. He decides to start digging a hole in the area were the fire had been. For some reason, the burnt vegetation and ash provided a more cleansing palette on which to dig.
After reaching a suitable size and depth, he started gathering up the goblin dead and casting them in. Mortimer didn't trouble himself with their condition or care. As he needed, he press their corpses down tighter with his feet to make more room for others. He couldn't help but savor the sound of their snapping and crackling bones with each stomp. As the last one is thrown in, Mortimer pauses as he mutters a brief statement, "Take 'em back and try again. You can do better than this."
He then begins to refill the grave.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Sunday September 24th, 2023 8:45:24 PM
Gnubert continues to stand watch, unsure of what else to do. The cleric watches the campsite get repaired, and then when Foxxglove speaks he respectfully listens to the youngster speak. Gnubert nods, and smiles at the young man, "I am not much of a cook but there is someone here who is a heck of a cook, and maybe we should ask them..." Gnubert turns and looks a Loryn.
When Mortimer begins to bury the goblins Gnubert gasps as Mortimer begins squishes them down in the pit, breaking bones in the process. Gnubert is speechless for a while as he watches Mortimer finish up. The cleric waits until Mortimer is finished, and then walks over to the grave where he says a prayer to all the Gods.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 3d6=9 ; d20+7=13 ; Monday September 25th, 2023 10:54:57 AM
Drack will Lay hands on Manolo, healing him for 9. If anyone else is injured, Drack will lay hands on them as well. He will spend the rest of the night on watch(perception 13). After the night is done, Drack will lay hands upon himself to get rid of the fatigue, and then pray to Domi for spells. Following that, and breakfast, Drack will prepare to start hiking in the general direction of town.
Lay hands: 9/9 Spells: Divine Favor Bless
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+10=24 ; Monday September 25th, 2023 4:41:53 PM
About an hour after sunrise, Loryn will make his way out of his tent. He shakes his head a those who did not have a watch who had stayed up fumbling out and working in the dark. the gnome figured in about 7 hours, the hike back would be taking a toll on them. A learning point for the kids he figured he would teaching later. For now, those interested in learning a bit more how not to hate the outdoors by learning how to eat good food, could gather around.
Loryn produced several small wheels of cheese, a few dozen eggs and several fresh loaves of bread from the Bag of Holding. As well as a basket of fruit and a few jugs of juice. He explains it's a basic but hearty breakfast. He was planning on game and sausage later on with a good thick gravy. But with the events, he was pulling back a little Cooking 24
He'll assign several kids to assist with clean up and supervise to make sure these are done correclty and as the time closed toward mid morning. The cooking station was ready for travelling
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Monday September 25th, 2023 10:51:05 PM
After gravedigging duties, Mortimer takes up his time on watch. At least he thinks it was. He wasn't sure when his watch was, but he certainly wasn't getting any more sleep that morning.
Breakfast was always a pleasant balance to the rise of an oppressive sun. He does try his best to restrain his ravenous hunger; there being so many more mouths to feed. The icy chill from his spellcasting also dries him out terribly. He's finished off two full waterskins since the fight with the goblins. He could have abstained from drinking so much, but he didn't see the need with a plentiful source nearby.
Mortimer's otherworldly durability has allowed him to endure a week without water. Though it was his proclivity for bluffing that got that evil jailer to open his cell door; playing dead came natural to him. The jailer would soon learn to regret that decision.
GM Jon - Day 3 - A New Day Tuesday September 26th, 2023 12:04:25 AM
After the events of the pre-dawn attack, Loryn went in his tent and fell asleep.
Drack catches up with Manolo, and dips into his magics healing his friend (healed 9 damage)
Manolo and Ash think about breakfast, and use a torch to look for fresh veggies and fruits
Torry, stating the obvious, "Breakfast is an excellent idea!". This is followed up by Amber and Dandila following Torry to the messed up tents and showing the girls how to Repair the tents, utilizing magic to help
Mortimer spends time digging a hole, then squishes the dead goblins into the ground and then covers them with dirt
Gnubert watches the activity in the camp, and listens to Loryn snore. Mortimer's activity causes Gnubert to experience a moment of speechlessness ... and then once Mortimer is done, Gnubert walks over and says a blanket pray to all the Gods
A few hours later ... (why did I just hear the Spongebob narrator in my head)
Drack heals himself of his fatigue and then prayed to Domi for spells
Loryn comes out of his tent, shakes his head at all the activity that happened while he was napping. He then begins having the kids help him set up food taken from his Bag of holding ... what little Manolo and Ash find is also added to the meal.
Once everyone is stuffed, and the dishes all washed ... the kids and party look around for anything they missed ... Mortimer catches sight of the deer he chased into the woods. It notices him staring, and bows its' head, then bounds away
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:17:58 AM
With Amber and Dandila's help Spot was groomed, watered and well fed.
"You know, I was kind of hoping that you two could do an important job for me. Would you both mind riding on Spot as we head back? She's really tall and it is a long way down; so no problem if you'd rather not; it's just with Spot being so big, you'll be able to see a lot further and can warn everyone if you see a goblin or something like that." Torryn asked the two girls. She didn't really want to ride when everyone else was walking. Plus, it was true; Spot was a heavy horse. She was big. Sitting on her back you could see a lot better.
"And whoever is behind the one with the reins needs to carry my magical spear." She added as a sweetener. This time she'd be carrying her bow. At least that way she wouldn't forget it.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:17:59 AM
Ash uses some cantrips to cleanup the kids faces after breakfast.
"Cant be bringing you home like little dirtballs."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:45:43 AM
After getting ready for the day, and having breakfast, Drack will catch up with Loryn. "What say we move a few hours toward town, or a little more, and find a new camp site. A couple of kids want to learn from Torry, a couple want to learn from me, and a couple seem interested in the arcane arts. Let's try and find a safer spot further from goblins, and teach them something. If anyone can hunt, perhaps one of the stealthy kids would like to learn that. The first name that comes to mind for hunting would be Manolo due to his stealth. One person could borrow spot, ride to town and report on what has happened, hopefully returning before nightfall. We said we are going back, but that doesn't mean we have to do it quickly."
Lay hands: 9/9 Spells: Divine Favor Bless
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday September 26th, 2023 11:19:58 AM
Loryn packs up and takes to walking along back towards town. A full day will get them home a few hours before sunset, so when Drack mentions stopping in a few hours, he's not opposed. "We have a few hours built in on the trip back, not as important to get back before dark. Mid morning stop, lunch and mid afternoon breaks on an hour or so would work. Far as i know, Mole was the only person with any survival skills. Honestly I'm hoping we don't get lost on the way back. On hunting, wouldn't that involve putting some distance between us and whoever is going. I don't want to send a couple of kids just out there with Manolo for a couple hours beyond earshot. We stick together, talk to the kids about what we can at the breaks. You have to talk to Torrynashkabbeth on anyone with riding skills going ahead on Spot. Not my call."
GM Jon - Day 3 - A New Day Tuesday September 26th, 2023 4:55:34 PM
OOC: Sorry about last night guys - I was furiously writing and then had to give my dogs their night time meds, so didn't get my input saved until 9:02 pm my time. I'll check back in a few hours to see if anyone is gonna post and then move this along =)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; d20+10=20 ; d10=7 ; Tuesday September 26th, 2023 7:13:06 PM
" I am going to check the surroundings", Manolo says as he goes out to scout for danger and suspecious things
Perception 20
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 7:32:44 PM
Gnubert helps with clean up, and loading their supplies. The cleric is deep in thought with Mole's leaving, and Mortimer's actions. Both are bothering him deeply. Gnubert ponders deeply, [i]first why would Mole leave them out here? Second, why would Mortimer desecreate the bodies of the goblins? We had already beaten them back, they lost, we won. What was done to the corpses was unnecessary and cruel! They were still the Gods creatures.[/b]
Gnubert trudges along behind the others, mace in hand, and distracted by the thoughts in his head.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 9:07:10 PM
“Fair enough Loryn. I was actually thinking of taking the long way around town, and return tomorrow, but if we go back today, so be it. I will teach the boys what I can about swordsmanship with a lengthy lunch, and promise them to teach them more when I am in town, and don’t have much going on. Hunting is probably out for the duration we have. I would think that when in town if we make the effort to work with this group, it will give them more pride and status than 6 days in the woods. Helping people to learn to help themselves is why I am where I am, and I think Domi would approve.”
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Tuesday September 26th, 2023 10:04:57 PM
Along the way, Mortimer notices the deer again. The idea of this deer hanging around during and after a combat, with all the blood, death and fire, was inconceivable. Now the animal gives him a knowing nod!
Mortimer asks, "Uhhh, what is it when prey doesn't act like prey?" He pauses and then answers his own question, "When it's a stalker! A deer has been followin' us, yeah. Watchin' us!"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday September 26th, 2023 10:47:52 PM
Drack whips his head around when Mortimer mentions the deer. “What exactly did you see Mortimer? I would really like to know.”
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Tuesday September 26th, 2023 11:31:35 PM "There was a deer watchin' the fight with the goblins. Thought it a gobbie, I did, in disguise tryin' ta set fire to the tents. I charged at it an' the critter darted off in a very deer-like way. No gobbie can move like that. Though it's not very deer-like ta hang around with all the blood, fire and clamour of combat. Then I saw it again after breakfast ... and it gave me a nod before runnin' off."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Wednesday September 27th, 2023 5:22:35 AM
"That does sound odd." Agreed Torrynashkabbeth. "Maybe, if it reappears, Dracky and I could try to ascertain if it's an evil thingy - in disguise." She actually didn't hold out much hope for that as her capacity to detect the presence of evil didn't extend that far and deer were notorious for being elusive and keeping their distance. However, she did now have her bow and that could reach a lot further, not that she was awfully keen on shooting a deer, especially not one that had done them any harm.
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday September 27th, 2023 9:41:34 AM
Loryn listens to Mortimer and the others, It was certainly an oddity. The gnome found himself wishing Mole was still around. A druid would be mighty handy right about now and so he falls to his next best thing, at least in his mind. "Torrynashkabbeth? You're part Fey right? Anything? Or maybe an animal companion to a druid? Biggest problem I see is that none of us can track it and none of us could keep up with it. Not being a fan of shoot first and hope to be right and figure it out later, I'm not thinking of anything we can particularly do. Keep an eye out? Sure, but what then."
The group walks and talks planning for a mid morning stop to 'teach' the kids some stuff
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+7=15 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 10:43:15 AM
“Yeah Loryn, maybe an animal companion, maybe even a Druid itself. Never met one, but I’ve heard they change into animal forms. Either way, I think we leave it be unless it proves to mean us harm. A normal deer wouldn’t be anywhere near what happened last night. And thanks for breakfast Loryn. Well done as usual. Shall we move on to where we break for lunch? I have a feeling that after we report in to the council, we are going goblin hunting.”
Drack will keep a watchful eye on their surroundings, looking for goblins, the deer that Mortimer spoke of, or anything odd. (Perception 15)( hopefully all the good rolls are being saved for combat by the die roller)
GM Jon - Day 3 - LUNCHTIME, YUM Wednesday September 27th, 2023 1:26:17 PM
OOC: Sorry, I totally blame my wife and "Who's Line Is It Anyway" for not posting last night
IC: Manolo goes out to look for "Dangerous and Suspicous" things. He does find several poisonous plants (the Oak variety), and an underground wasp's nest (which he avoids). He also spots deer and rabbit tracks in the brush about 20 to 30' away from where they party is.
With everything cleaned and packed up, Gnubert contemplates two actions, that Mole left the party out in the wilderness without a word, and, the way Mortimer desecrated the goblins' bodies while burying them, especially since the party "won" the engagement. He wanders with his companions, mace at the ready, but appears distracted to anyone who looks at him.
Drack offers to teach those interested in what sword techniques he can offer on the way back to town, and again once the party is back in town. "A longer lunch would give me an opportunity for some lessons."
Mortimer sees the deer again, and almost stops, alerting the rest of the party, "Guys we have a stalker. That deer is following us, and it nodded at me." Drack almost stops once Mortimer shares this and asks for further details on the mysterious deer. Mortimer elaborates, "There was a deer watchin' the fight with the goblins. Thought it a gobbie, I did, in disguise tryin' ta set fire to the tents. I charged at it an' the critter darted off in a very deer-like way. No gobbie can move like that. Though it's not very deer-like ta hang around with all the blood, fire and clamour of combat. Then I saw it again after breakfast ... and it gave me a nod before runnin' off."
Torry responds with the "oddness" of the situation, and offers that she and Drack can attempt to "ascertain if it is a real deer or something else."
Loryn, now paying attention, shares his thoughts on,"Could it be a Fey, or perhaps a druid's companion." His advice is not to shoot first, but keep a weather eye out for the deer to return
Drack finishes the conversation as the party continues their walk, "Could be a Druid in animal form, I understand they can change their shape. Breakfast was delicious, but we should plan on finding a spot for lunch, if we're going to take time for some lessons.
Through all this the children have been talking amongst themselves, with several pointing out edible plants, and pointing out the large butterflies and dragonfly's in the area. They start discussing their prowess, or lack thereof, with their swords. When they hear Drack offer to continue training them once back in town, they all clap and start chanting, [b]"Drack, Drack, Drack" the girls then start chanting "Torry, Torry, Torry"
After an hour, the party finds a loverly glade. There is a small stream running on one side, and a whole mass of black berries bushes on the other. Some kind of ruin is in the middle, but it is covered in ivy and moss
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 2:53:31 PM
Manolo gathers some of the poison stuff for possibly future use and will join the group.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Wednesday September 27th, 2023 7:00:51 PM
Gnubert walks lost in his own thoughts, not even noticing the deer when it is pointed out. As they prepare for lunch Gnubert approaches Mortimer, "Mortimer? May I speak with you a bit more privately?" The cleric walks 20 or so paces away from the group, "I have a..well..umm...a question. Can you explain why you desecrated the goblin corpses? We won, no one was hurt. Why did you feel the need to trample their bodies?" Gnubert is visably upset, but his tone in not accusatory.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Wednesday September 27th, 2023 8:15:45 PM
Mortimer answers, "Sure," to Gnubert's request. An eyebrow raises when he hears words like desecration in relation to his treatment of the goblins. His reply was simple and practical, "Needed to make more room in the hole, I did. So I stomped them down is all. Didn't want the mound ta be so tall that would encourage others ta dig 'em up." Mortimer pauses to choose his next words carefully, because he didn't want to upset the cleric. "As far as desecration is concerned, a gobbies existence is a desecration. No gods 'ad any hand in their creation. Gobbies were shaped inta being from the most wicked an' curst, blood rituals; deep, dark magiks. Could I have handled them with more care ... sure, but they had no problem eating me as a child."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+7=22 ; Wednesday September 27th, 2023 9:56:12 PM
Ash watches the children in the glade, keeping an eye out for any returning goblins or worse.
Perception 22
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Thursday September 28th, 2023 5:41:43 AM
"What a beautiful place. I never knew it was here." Torryn commented delightedly before skipping around to try to take in the wonder of the setting. Iridescent dragonflies, colourful butterflies, glossy, edible berries and an enchanting ruin. To her it was a delight. She forgot all about the goblins.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 28th, 2023 9:57:17 AM
Drack takes an instant interest in whatever ruins are hidden under the brush. He will try and clear a little to see what the ruins actually are. Following that, he will spend some time tutoring the interested boys in the basics of combat
Make a Religion or Know: History check, DC 15: If you pass Highlight to display spoiler: {"This was a Druidic shrine. The damage is just time and nature wearing it down. The fact that the glade seems so perfect is probably due to whatever magic is left within the statue}
If you fail: Highlight to display spoiler: { This is a wonderful statue, well shaped, probably by a master mason. The effects of time and nature have worn it down to its' present state }
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision d20+1=17 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 12:16:35 PM
Interrupted by the sights and sounds around him: the babbling brook, fresh berries, the ruins in the distance, the whole scene was quite idyllic. "Have ya taken in the surroundings, Gnubert? This is a far sight better than our last spot!"
Being so close to the Hamlet, he tries to recall any memories of this place. (Knowledge [Local]: 17)
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday September 28th, 2023 12:46:51 PM
Keeping an eye out for an odd behaving deer, Loryn walks along until the get to the glen. Good of a spot as any. Before getting too distracted with anything else, Loryn accompanies Drack to the ruin to make sure nothing is lurking under the brush. If nothing declares itself hostile, Loryn asks all of the children over. "So what can any of you tell me about what we've found here? What might this have been? How long has it been in disrepair? Are there any markings or clues in the rock?"
After the class on observation and deductive thinking, "Now lets do lunch and then everyone can get on with additional training with Drack the Torrynashkabbeth."
Loryn sets the children to gather water and black berries while he sets out a lunch of Salami, sharp cheese and crust bread. "We'll break again after a few more hours to talk magic and why the gnomes decided all of the other races should learn it"
GM Jon - Day 3 - LUNCHTIME, YUM Thursday September 28th, 2023 2:20:05 PM
Manolo decides to pocket some of the poison oak, including some of the berries, for later useage
Gnubert, who has been walking, lost in his own thoughts, asks to speak with Mortimer once they reach the glade. Gnubert seeks understanding on the "desecration of the goblins, after we beat them." Mortimers response is simple, "Needed them to squish down into the hole as not to leave a mound that would have been dug up."
Mortimer further elaborates on gobbis not being created by deities, but through the use of "dark magics and blood rituals"
Ash keeps an eye out on the glade, to ensure no goblins sneak up on the group
Torry forgot all about the goblin menace as she looked around at the beauty and bounty of the glade. The dragon and butterflies only enhanced the beauty and peacefullness of the area.
Mortimer searches his memory for any info on the region. It was or is known for its many druid locations, blessed moonpools, sacred glades, and monolithic stones are rumored to pepper the region. Whether the druid's continue their presence in the region is unkown, however, a deer following and then nodding at Mortimer may prove that Druids are active, just in secret.
Loryn assists Drack with his search of plants. Loryn also asks about the statue, which Mortimer knows something about, and Drack will share what he knows once he is finished examining the statue more closely
Loryn then discusses lunch, and then tells the kids to attend either Dracks' lessons or Torrys' as they both "Utilize different methods to their style of comabt.
Drack shares his findings with the group, "This was a Druidic shrine. The damage is just time and nature wearing it down. The fact that the glade seems so perfect is probably due to whatever magic is left within the statue."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+5=24 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 3:26:14 PM
(Knowledge religion 24)
"Loryn, come take a look at this. A very old Druid shrine. Time has worn it down, but this area was likely protected by one or more Druids. I'm guessing that Mortimer's deer was likely one, keeping an eye out on what was occurring in its forest"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday September 28th, 2023 3:29:09 PM
Drack waited until after the kids had a chance to answer to reveal his thoughts. Sorry. missed Loryn's post.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision d20+4=9 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 8:50:46 PM
His eyes widen with the realization of where they're at. "One of those proper sacred groves, it is. I 'eard about these hidden druid gardens. Better mind our pints and quarts, yeah!"
He looks around for the deer stalker. This could be where they call home. (Perception: 9.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Thursday September 28th, 2023 8:51:46 PM
Manolo returns and shows everyone what he has found.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Thursday September 28th, 2023 10:29:17 PM
Gnubert smiles weakly at Mortimer, "Eat you? As a child? Where were your parents? Certainly they tried to protect you?" Gnubert's mouth is agape in disbelief.
When Mortimer mentions their current surroundings the cleric realizes he hadn't noticed their current location, "it is pretty idyllic Mortimer. One has to wonder why a place like this would exist so close to the ugliness we just witnessed."
Ash sees where the really are, and then the other members confirm it.
"Not a bad place to be as long as we don't disturb nature. No goblin would come near the place, even if it is run down."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d20=8 ; Friday September 29th, 2023 5:20:00 AM
"Actually, I don't think that's true, Ash. Yes, we Fey sure love the harmony and beauty of this place and goblins - well, they aren't Fey at all; so with them - not so much. But, that doesn't mean that they can't enter. It's more like there's nothing to interest them here. Except....they did come with sacks and they are interested in us and we're here. So that means that - Oh look! A purple butterfly!" Torryn skipped merrily after the butterfly, whatever she was going to say, completely forgotten whilst she was absorbed with taking in all the many splendours of the old grove.
(Perception: 18 to see what else she can see/smell/hear)
GM Jon - Day 3 - Early evening Friday September 29th, 2023 10:26:19 PM
The group discusses the grove and the ruined statue. The overall conscencious, is that the grove may be tended by druids as evidenced by the deer hanging around, and keeping tabs on at least Mortimer.
Manolo also shares the leaves and berries he harvested, for use later.
Gnubert appears in shock as Mortimer shares a past life where "goblins ate me!"
Ash shares that "goblins shouldn't come near here."
Mortimer considers that the site is "active" and advocates for the group, in total, "mind their pints and quarts"
Torry shares that, as goblins aren't fey, there isn't much here to "be of interest to them" - her ADHD activates as she sees a purple butterfly, which triggers several of the kids, chasing it around until it lands on Ash's head, flapping its wings slowly, as if its tired from its flight
After a good lunch, and several hours of tutoring the group moves on. The closer group gets to town, the smell of woodsmoke, and cooking food begins lightly wafting through the air. The smells get more intense as the group comes to the outskirts of town. Several of the adults in town stop what they are doing when they see the adventurers have returned early with their "armed" group of kids.
Several adults turn and run for the Mayor's home. And a few others begin yelling for the parents of the kids in the group ...
The blacksmith actually walks up, his face changing from questioning to concern as he sees the expressions and looks he gets from the kids, and from the party ... "What happened out there? Your group is the second to return early?"
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Saturday September 30th, 2023 6:56:03 AM
Torryn smiled happily. There were no goblins nearby, no one had been hurt - apart from the goblins. Spot had enjoyed the walk AND she'd even remembered to carry her bow!
"What happened? Oh, goblins happened, but then we 'happened' straight back at them." Torryn explained without actually explaining anything at all. Still, that response evidently pleased her as she smiled broadly as she carried on further into town.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Saturday September 30th, 2023 7:00:28 PM
"Not saying they can't come in here, but more along the lines of them not wanting to come in. Goblins are cowardly, but they're also very superstitious. "
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Monday October 2nd, 2023 8:59:09 AM
Loryn is immediately concerned at the words of the good smith. "Second group?" he inquires He stops short letting the kids and anyone else keep going and questions the smith a little more. "When did another group come back and do you know their reasons Have any riders gone to the last group then?"
The gnome hoped but was not hopeful on the reasons one of the other groups came back early, but perhaps they arrived to discover the provisions gone and simply turned around. Unfortunately they would likely have to wait until morning to set out after the last group. None of them were skilled enough in the wilderness to make the journey in the dark
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Monday October 2nd, 2023 9:37:45 AM
Manolo keeps quiet for a few moments. 'Someone attacking the groups?', he thinks and wonders about the story/tale they were told earlier. He blurts out, "Probably not true but someone might be on the hunt for children".
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Monday October 2nd, 2023 9:51:38 AM
"Oh. You probably don't want to be shouting that out, Manny". Whispered Torryn as she jerked her thumb towards the many children that they still currently had in tow.
"But probably we should go straight back out and have a look for any more nasties."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:50:14 AM
Drack listens. "Loryn, I think we need to talk to city leaders and the leaders of the group to come in before us in short order. We may need to head out to check the other group at first light."
Drack turns to the group of kids. "The swords you carry that were goblin swords, they are now yours unless your parents say otherwise. You earned them. Whenever i do not have urgent business that needs attending to, i will train those of you that wish to learn to fight with swords. Be mindful, you saw what a sword can do. You do not use a weapon in anger. you use a weapon when your enemy tries to kill you. talking and diplomacy are always the best first choice if possible. If any of you would care to learn diplomacy, we can discuss that as well."
GM Jon - Day 3 - Late Dinner Time Monday October 2nd, 2023 5:25:49 PM
The blacksmith had asked, "What happened?" Torry cheerfully answered that "Goblins happened, but we happened back"
The blacksmith mouths 'goblins' and then shakes his head. The Mayor has been summoned it is him you should be talking to.
[Spongebob Narrator] A few moments later ... The Mayor rides up on a horse and jumps off. Seeing that the children are armed, he almost frantically looks around and points to a spot away from the growing crowd. "Where you attacked?" Torry reiterates what she told the Blacksmith.
The Mayor curses and kicks a rock. Loryn and Manolo both ask about groups being attacked. He looks saddened at the party, "Another group came in this morning. They were all hurt, and half of the children were missing. I see that your group handled itself better."
Drack recommends talking to the city leaders, and checking on the other group that came in, as well, consider the final group.
An hour later the party finds themselves in the meeting hall. The three leaders are there, as well the tracker that checked out and stocked the training areas.
The other two leaders look on as the Mayor speaks, "Please, start from the beginning of your journey, and then about what prompted you to return early."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:22:15 PM
Gnubert doesn't have much to add beyond what Torry said so he takes the time to make sure the children have all of their things before they go off with their parents.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Monday October 2nd, 2023 10:24:41 PM
Gnubert takes the hour before they meet with the leaders of the village to clean his armor and surcoat. The cleric shakes his head at the fact that multiple groups were attacked. "has everyone else made it back? Were the children kidnapped or..." The clerics voice trails off.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 5:22:47 AM
Torryn straightened her short tunic and stood tall, well, as tall as her diminutive frame permitted.
"So, what happened....well, it all started peacefully enough. Spot was behaving excellently, as usual, and there were lots of pretty butterflies. The birds were singing beautifully and it wasn't even raining! Oh, the goblins. Yes, they came in the night. First they sent a few in one direction and then a whole mob from the opposite side. THEN, they snuck in on the original side with sacks. They got some food mostly. We killed a lot - dead. So, we figured it was best to come straight back AND if the children had weapons it would further deter any attack. That's why they are armed. So we should probably go straight back out and find those missing children." Torryn nodded emphatically in closing, assured of the right of what she said.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 9:33:26 AM
Drack will wait for the children to be reunited with family, and attempt to tell each parent that their child handled themselves well, followed the groups instructions, and did not panic when a battle was happening. For the ones that showed interest in learning the art of combat from him, Drack will tell the parents that with their permission, he will train their children as he has time so their children respect the sword, and know how to use it properly. Following that, Drack will head to the meeting with the others. He does not bother to clean the goblin blood from himself.
Drack just rolls his eyes as Torry gives her version of events. Once she finishes, he decides to chime in a more warrior viewed synopsis. "A group of goblins came at us from the east. While we fought them, a larger group came from the west, and a small group snuck towards the tents from the North. A few ran off, but the rest are dead. These are not normal goblin tactics. They usually hit as one big group."
"One of them spoke a little before it died. They have a new chief who wishes to expand their territory. A smart chief. In my opinion he knows military tactics to some extent. They brought sacks, and said they were coming for slaves and supplies, and when the slaves were worn out, they would be food. If the third group has not returned, either they are unharmed, or dead and taken by the goblins."
"I assume we will be leaving at first light to check on the other group, and then rescue prisoners?"
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 10:56:26 AM
"Yeah, that's what I said." Confirmed Torryn with a winning smile. She was pretty sure that was what she said - more or less. her mind drifted again, as it was so spectacularly adept at. Perhaps she'd go check in with Agratha and tell her about the girls that were interested in 'dancing'.
As to an early departure, she really didn't mind heading straight back out. It wasn't as if Spot was tired.
AC 13 HP 35/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 11:48:21 AM
Loryn puts a hand on Gnubert's worried shoulder. "Let us pray that the goblins attacked the other sights were of the same bent as those that came at us. Remember, they were going for prisoners not kills. Hope remains we can get them all back."
Drack accounted for everything and Loryn saw no need to put in more on that. He does speak directly to the Bearclaw leadership gathered.
"A first hand accounting from the other group that came back is something we need. We will be heading out before first light tomorrow and we will need a guide to the other locations. " Looking to the guide, "And we will need you to show us where the missing group is first and then to the other attack site and from there if possible to backtrack the goblins to their lair."
He smiles at Torrynashkabbeth, he appreciated her sense of drive and urgency, but he was tired. He was amazed that the children and the others did so well on only 4 hours of sleep followed by a 10 hour hike. He was just a gnome though and his reserves were depleted. No he needed rest before setting out on another 10 hour journey.
"If there is nothing else then? I suggest we get a good nights sleep"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision d20+6=8 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 3:17:59 PM
A look of horror flashes across Mortimer's face when hears that other children had been taken. This was his greatest fear. If any of his wards were taken, he would have hunted down and slain every goblin he could find. Just situation just became personal.
After the group finds there way to a more private setting, and not in earshot of the general public (or any other rank), Mortimer doesn't sugar-coat his concerns.
"Why are we just sittin' 'ere? Mount up an' let's get goin! Don't believe one second those bastards want slaves. Breed like rabbits, they do. Gobbies 'ave plenty of workers at their disposal. They took those youngin's for one reason only ... MEAT! Human meat ... it's what's for dinner! It's what they prize most of all ... that an settin' fires! We better hope they're savin' them for a later feast or fightin' over them for a first bite. Anything ta delay what WILL be comin!"
GM Jon - Day 3 - Late Dinner Time Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 7:15:51 PM
Prior to the meeting, Gnubert and Drack ensure that the kids have all their belongings before returning home. While all their parents are gathered, and pleased to see their kids come back, none seem upset about the fact that all the kids are carrying goblin short swords
At the meeting, Torry cheerfully relates what happened to the party ... causing the three leaders to look at each, mouthing "Spot", "butterflies and birds".
Drack, then adds more detail about the battle, and the goblin he interrogated. The leaders all sit up in their seats when Drack shares that "There's a new Chief wanting to expand his territory. He's a smart one, used tactics on us. The goblins were coming for slaves and supplies, and figured us for an easy mark. If the last group hasn't returned they may have fallen to the goblins."
Torry looks at her friends and the leaders, and smiles, "That's what I said."
Gnubert discusses plans to set out in the morning to search for the last group. Mortimer urges the group to leave "NOW" based on his knowledge of how goblins have a penchant for eating slaves.
About now the council chambers open and a guard ushers in a man using a crutch, his left leg and right shoulder are swathed in bandages.
The Mayor smiles. "Come Randolf. Share your story with us."
Taken aback at the party being there. He winces as he walks to a chair. He then reaches out and grabs a carafe of wine, and takes several large gulps. Loryn is sitting closest to the man, and he can smell the alcohol already coming off the man. "Again, you want me to relate the story again, fine. Then I'm going home to mourn my Willa not coming back. We went up to the closest training ground. That's where I was taken in my youth. First two nights went fine. The kids were enjoying themselves. We weren't too heavy on weapons, mainly our bows, and a few spears. Before the sun came out, Ralph cried out, then fells over. Gordon was sitting a few feet away, he ran to Ralph's side and saw a large dart stuck in his arm. Gordon heard a nosie and threw himself onto a tent, waking up the kids, myself, and then the rest of the camp. They came on us like devils. Clubs, nets, blowgun darts. It happened so fast we only had time for a few shots, and then 'BAM'. He takes a few more gulps, "I woke up to a horse licking my face. In the maelstrom I had fallen under a tent. No one was alive, one child was, was, someone or something lifted the girl up and drove a spear through her. Three of the adults were dead and left. I, I didn't know what to do, so I made a travois, and used the horse to bring the bodies back. Now, can I go home?"
OOC: Dumb GM question, do y'all have a dedicated spokesperson, or have y'all just done what I read, which is each of y'all filling in gaps in the stories being shared?
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 7:53:03 PM
Manolo faces loses color as he hears what happened. Uneasiness grows in his heart, something was definitely wrong, something sinister more evil than he could grasp yet....
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 2d6=10 ; Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 8:14:44 PM
Gnubert smiles weakly at Loryn, "Thank you my friend. It is in the Gods hands now."
The cleric listens to the mayor, and then his face falls again when Randolf limps in. As he listens to the mans story, a rage begins to build in his chest, and for the first time he can understand why Mortimer did what he did. As soon as the thought passes through his mind Gnubert flushes with embarassment. He knew better, and the Gods demanded more of him. Gnubert stands to his feet, and swiftly moved to Randolf as his story finished, "Sir, may I tend to your wounds before you leave? It is the least I can do after what you have been through." Gnubert channels and heals the room for 10. The cleric bows his head and thanks the Gods.
"My friends we should depart as soon as we can. I need an hour to pray and prepare, and I will be ready. Who can show us the way, or give us a map of Randolf's camp?"
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Tuesday October 3rd, 2023 9:30:35 PM
Mortimer bristled with a bitterly cold fury. The anger flooded his veins like an ice flow. He stood there with clinched fists watching everyone walk and talk in slow motion. Their words barely audible to him. He stuck ... frozen in place. As we peer into his eyes, ever closer and deeper into the black hole to an inner space. A place beyond the Living Wold ... into a realm of shadow. There in the dark of shadow is a place we call the Inbetwixt.
The Inbetwixt is a reliquary of sorts containing the souls of the Margrave family. A kind of limbo, living eternally on a verdant landscape shaped by their past lives; forever removed from the Lands of Rest. It is a place where hope is not entertained. A soul that gives thought to hope often suffers a fall into madness.
Lady Agrippina gasps. She watches Mortimer intently. The others turn a weary eye in her direction. Agrippina is both afraid and hopeful at what she sees. 'oh my ... by the gods! is mortimer showing actual empathy for others? he's never done that before; not ever. this man ... i know him not!'
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:04:02 AM
"Oh, that's terrible." Agreed Torryn. She too was more than happy to heal the man of his wounds, should he need more healing (Lay on Hands, 1d6). She nodded to Gnubert. Recovering magic was very wise. They'd likely need to be at their full strength to handle such a large and clearly organised horde of goblins.
Unlike the others, Torryn wasn't mad or angry. As Agratha had taught her, that served little purpose. She was however, very worried for the missing and more than willing to set forth once more with minimal rest. She felt sure that Spot wouldn't mind at all.
(OOC: It is as you suspected Jon; we typically fudge our way, albeit Loryn and Drack often take the lead)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 9:09:12 AM
"We need to head right back out. We slept enough to have our spells, and strength. Lets head to where they were and see what we can find. " Ash finally adds, after being so stunned by the story that he couldn't speak.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 10:13:49 AM
(Loryn is group leader, Drack just chimes his opinion in, but defers to Loryn if they disagree)
“My friends. Trying to travel in the dark will not be beneficial. I believe Loryn is right. We gear up before first light, and head out as dawn approaches. We take our horses for speed, and prepare for war. If these goblins are as I believe, we cannot expect this to be easy. There will likely be traps, and we will be fighting in their terrain. Loryn? What say you?”
Following Loryn’s response, Drack just looks at the council. “Anything further? Kill the goblins and rescue all of our people that still live.”
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Wednesday October 4th, 2023 10:27:02 AM
Loryn listened and found himself with almost more questions than answers. The goblins attacked. Darts, nets, clubs. Those weapons aided in taking prisoners. The cowardly creatures may very well kill adults, but the children could very much have been taken. But what was the next creature that found them, the creature that drove the spear. it was no goblin and it did not have it's own weapon, but used a weapon found.
"There is more than goblins at work here..." he says plainly
"A forced 6 hour march will only set us to meet the same fate. And none of you rested after the pre dawn attack this morning. Rushing into the dark will not aid the dead and we will see nothing when we arrive exhausted at midnight. We will need a amp to back track Randolph as well as the location of the other camp where we will need to go first. Hopefully we will discover them and send them home"
Loryn does not wish to inflict more trauma on Randolph and therefore does not ask any questions. Tomorrow was going to be a long day with an early start and it might be far longer than he may want. He would wake earlier than usual to pack supplies and get Drith mounted up and ready to go. "We'll get to the bottom of all of it." He put a hand on Randolph, "you have our word of honor"
Loryn gives a nod to the leaders and a determined nod to his friends as he leaves the meeting for Minervas and what could be the last good nights sleep for many, many days.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:14:29 PM
Drack watches Loryn leave. “That is settled then.” Drack looks at the council. “We will need a scout familiar with the area. Is there anything more?”
GM Jon - Day 3 - Preparation for the Morning Wednesday October 4th, 2023 2:43:10 PM
The more Randolf talks, the more the party looks crestfallen, followed immediately by anger and thoughts of venegence.
Manolo begins thoughts of something more sinister than just goblins occurring.
As Gnubert listens, his heart cries out for justice. Summoning his divine energies, he healed the group. Randolf seems caught off guard as he stands up straighter and drops the crutch to the floor. Slowly begining to remove his bandages, he listens to the ongoing discussion.
Mortimer appears gripped by something, his face full of cold fury and outrage, and energy poured out of him, energizing the area. Interiorly, Mortimer has gone the place of his family, where their souls dwelt. His family commented that they almost didn't recognize him, as he was beginning to display "empathy for others."
Torry listened to the report, and offered more healing should Randolf need it, to which nods in thanks, but motions that he is now fine.
Ash urges his friends to "Head out now!"
Drack follows this up with something that several of you are thinking, "If we head out in the dark we won't do anybody any good. First light, prepared for combat with our horses."
Loryn touches on something Manolo is thinking about, "Something else is at work here." Loryn follows up with the party, on their honor, "Getting to the bottom of this threat."
Drack follows up with a, "It's settled, we head out at first light. We need a scout who is familiar with the area..."
Randolf, finished removing his bandages and seeing no damage, rotates his shoulder. "I can take you there. I know this area like the back of my hand. We just weren't prepared for this. I'm pretty good with my bow, and I've got a mount."
The Mayor then stands up. "Friends, this was meant to be a time of fun and learning. That it has come to this, as Randolf stated we weren't prepared. In the morning I will send a letter to a local mercenary group. They are one of the few who follow the Gods of good. As to your preparations, we can offer you any equipment or mounts to those who need one."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 7:17:41 PM
Gnubert nods to Drack, and Loryn, "First Light then!" Gnubert mentally calculates what gear he still has and what may be needed. "You mentioned the offer of gear, and mounts. I have another question, when we bring you these bandits, and murderers will you see that they are given a fair trial? We will probably need manacles and chain to bring them back here. Have you any gear of that type?"
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Wednesday October 4th, 2023 8:18:31 PM
"Mounts would be helpful", Manolo says. "The faster we arrive there the better"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Wednesday October 4th, 2023 10:56:56 PM
Ash shakes his head, obviously annoyed. " First light" he mutters.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Thursday October 5th, 2023 4:32:58 AM
"Oh, first light then." Torryn confirmed. That would give her ample time to rest and despite her eagerness, she felt that Spot too would benefit from a brief respite. Perhaps she'd be pushed harder in the morning. Torryn was sure that Spot would cope, especially if she had a good feed that night. As to what she herself needed; there wasn't much. She didn't see that manacles would be necessary. It seemed that they were hunting goblins Those would either be killed or run away. It wasn't a pleasant thought, but a harsh reality.
'Must remember weapons. Must remember weapons' She recited over and over mentally as she left the meeting to prepare.
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:03:23 AM
At Minerva's Loryn hears about the Hamlet wanting to send for Mercenaries and he is confused and annoyed at the news all at the same time. "What in the Wold is a group of mercenaries gonna do days after we take care of this?" he throws his hands up and shakes his head changing the subject. "Their gold to waste I suppose and it probably makes them feel better, like they are doing something about all of this. Fine. On our end, those of you without mounts are borrowing so we can make better time."
"Randolph is coming, so we really need to make sure he comes home and I'll make that my priority while we are out. he leads us to the unheard from camp first, then to his and we go from there Sound good?"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday October 5th, 2023 10:25:34 AM
Drack just nods at Loryn. “Let’s get this done. The children need to be returned home.” A very serious look crosses his face as he turns toward Gnubert. “Gnubert, I appreciate your view with the manacles, but goblins are outside of our laws, and do not abide them. They can run or die. If they surrender, they can run. If any of the children are dead, there will be no goblins remaining.”
Drack will rise early pray for spells, and pray to Domi to bring everyone left home alive.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Thursday October 5th, 2023 10:45:45 AM
At the meeting, Mortimer chimes in when the Mayor asks about equipment and horses. With a cool tone, he answers, "Yeah, we'll need some horses. Thanks."
If he knew where the camp was, he would have headed out that night, right after the meeting. He saw no trouble with a measly 6-hour trip in the darkness of night. He could have gotten there in 3. The longer they needlessly wait, the lesser the chance the children had for survival. With a sigh, he ponders that it may be too late. They took their good time getting back to town. The children, he thinks, are probably already reduced to a pile of gnawed and broken bones by now. He remembers how he watched in horror as goblins ate the other children before it was his turn. Even the marrow was suckled from the bones. If there are survivors, he dreads that they would've be a witness to the same gruesome savagery.
------------------------
To the keen observer, it would appear Mortimer is casting multiple shadows; mostly overlapping each other. Is it a trick of the light or something else?
GM Jon - Day 3 - Preparation for the Morning Thursday October 5th, 2023 3:14:10 PM
OOC: The wife has a couple of Drs appta in the next few hours. I'll do our "real" post when I get home and figure out what y'all find next
So how many mounts are people needing? And does anyone need any weapons or ammo? Are you only planning on being gone one day, or have you plans should this hunt go longer? That way I can plan accordingly
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Thursday October 5th, 2023 5:45:32 PM
(Jon - Are there any horse-drawn gnomish woodchippers in town? Since gnomes hate goblins so much, they found other uses for such a device. Gnomes are great multitaskers.)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Thursday October 5th, 2023 6:59:13 PM
OOC: I guess everybody needs mounts ? or at least fresh ones ?...not sure how we should prepare (how many days)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Thursday October 5th, 2023 8:21:24 PM
Gnubert looks at Drack and shakes his head, "no one is outside the law my friend. Not even goblins, as much as my kind tends to dislike them they are still created by the Gods, and should be shown justice. How else are they to learn? Those who decide to fight to the end, well they made thier choice, and I can live with that. Those that choose to surrender should be held accountable for thier actions. No one is above the law!""
Gnubert turns towards the Mayor, "Sir, do you perhaps have a small pony, or perhaps a small wagon if it will fit where we are going?"
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:54:10 PM
(Drack has a heavy horse, and we will likely plan to be gone until the job is done, and the kids are returned home.)
“I have 5 days rations Loryn. If you need any extra gold to restock your bag of holding with food, I am gladly in. Your meals are better than any I have had on the road before. I assume everyone agrees that we follow this through to the end. The survivors will be returned home.”
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday October 5th, 2023 9:58:40 PM
Drack turns at Gnuberts response. “We shall see Gnubert. If any of the children suffered,…we will see what transpires.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Friday October 6th, 2023 6:23:13 AM
Torryn would definitely plan on a protracted stay outdoors, taking a full week's worth of rations. Spot wouldn't mind carrying that. It was a "just in case" thing, as Loryn's cooking would, she hoped, be their mainstay.
She winced a little at the gnome's dogmatic adherence to the law. The law wasn't perfect. It wasn't, because it was made by people and people weren't perfect. If a goblin atoned and pleaded for a new life, she would spare it. If it was not truly remorseful, it would perish and in that regard, she stood shoulder to shoulder with Drack. She saw no profit or good purpose in bringing any goblins back to town. All that would do was pander to the crowd's bloodlust. In the interim, they'd be feeding and guarding such villains. That was a waste of resources if the goblins were only going to be given a "fair trial and then hanged".
There was no bloodlust in Torryn. She didn't relish what was to come, but the children were innocent and did not deserve the grim fate that had befallen them. She would do all that she could to stop further evil befalling them. If that meant smashing goblin heads, then so be it. In a sense she supposed it was easier for herself and Drack - as opposed to Loryn - they knew just how darkly evil such creatures were; almost being able to taste it.
Gently she patted Loryn on the shoulder. "Let's leave the manacles, Loryn. If it is the will of the Gods, then it falls to use to impose the law and offer such clemency or forgiveness as can be accorded. Trust in what Drack says, for he will surely see the evil that dwells in their hearts and ensure that justice is swift and merciful, for we do not deal in torture and suffering. Think on that. You are a goblin being dragged back to a human settlement. How would you rate your chances? Does the journey itself not then become a form of mental torture?" With a soothing smile Torryn turned and left to tell Spot all about the coming journey.
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday October 6th, 2023 8:59:52 AM
Loryn has a perplexed look on his face as Torrynashkabbeth is talking to him about manacles and prisoners, but it dawns on him shortly and he simply smiles, "Yes you are quite right. " he answers. To the big folk, even the smaller of the big folk, Loryn had often come to the conclusion that gnomes all look like. It never bothered him because the reality was, most of them pretty much looked alike from his upward point of view. Onto other matters
Loryn could fit 250 pounds of food, and indeed would be looking to do just that, into the Bag of Holding That should give them about a week of fresh food and the group would use trail rations when appropriate for either speed or stealth and so the food would go even further. Everyone should have some oil and torches and a bundle or 2 of good firewood secured to the mounts.
Loryn had a mount, the giant gecko he named Drith Dulwen Sticky Feet in gnomish
While Loryn was a proponent of 'see the good in creatures' Torrynashkabbeth was very correct. Sure she was talking to the wrong gnome, but it didn't make her any less right. Short of Domi actually being the judge, he saw no chance for Gnuberts 'fair trial'. There was at least 4 dead, sadly, probably more. Mortimer might actually come to blows if the cleric tried to stop him. there was a massive amount of trauma there. Well earned at that.
"Gnubert? No goblin or creature we find with dark purpose against our people will find a trial, fair or otherwise in Windhorne. 4 dead, with 1 being an unconscious wounded child." He felt more was not needed to be said.
Speaking up to all, "We ARE, however, on a rescue mission, not one of vengence. Finding and bringing back our children is our priority. Any fleeing goblins can wait another day. Also, remember the story of the witches. This puzzle says to me that here may be more than goblins about."
Spells: Active: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
GM Jon - Day 4 - Back into the woods Friday October 6th, 2023 9:29:59 AM
Although dawn broke around 5am, the fog doesn't clear for an hour. During this time the community provides mounts and carts.
There are two heavy horses, non-combat trained provided to pull these carts.
When the discussion turns to bringing goblins back to town, and how they would get a "fair" trial, several people helping to load the carts get upset. "Fair trials, fair trials, they killed our children and friends. Hang 'em or burn 'em or both, they don't deserve to live!" Several others move in and help those raising their voices to move back to their homes. The Mayor looks at the Captain of the guard, who is shaking their head. They walk up to Gnubert, "Look. We understand that your faith wants to save and give offenders a chance to turn their lives around. However, we have tried that. They don't learn, they don't have a conscience, and you'd be wasting your time. Their gods, and they have some, tell them to kill, plunder, and expand. They don't see the world as good and evil, like most of us do. To them, the world is theirs, and the majority of us are carrion to them. They see females as breeding stock and slaves. The same with children. Men are good for slaves or food. All that being said, you can bring any goblins or others back, a 'fair' trial might not be able to be held, just so you know."
One week's rations for each person is loaded into the smaller cart, as are two healer kits, 6 sets of manacles (all that the community owns), and extra clothes & bedding for the group plus extras for the kids and adults that went out to train. Fresh fruit, vegetables, some loaves of bread, and a wheel of cheese, plus two small kegs of ale, and a third of clean water are loaded as well.
Several quivers of arrows, and bolt cases with bolts are offered to any party member who needs them.
Randolf rides up on an older horse, but one that still has some miles on it. He is wearing studded leather armor, has a long bow and a spear with him. He has two saddlebags that are stuffed with who knows what. He looks at what's going on, and when he hears Gnubert's discussion about fair trials, he spits on the ground, turns his mount around, and heads toward the path the last group took out to their area.
Two gnomes, who work out in the woods, present Gnubert with a package. "Throw this in a goblin's camp fire. The smell is awful, but will put the goblins to sleep. It's one method we use when trying to log, or haul out special trees when goblins are active in the area."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision d20+8=19 ; Friday October 6th, 2023 1:09:04 PM
As soon as the horses arrive, Mortimer is packed and ready to go. He makes a quick pick of the litter. He singles out a black mare and makes a quick inspection. "You're no Phantom, but you'll do, yeah."
He mounts up and performs a simple test of the horse's responsiveness to his control: forwards, backwards, turns and a few circles. He gives the horse a reassuring rub and encouraging words. [ i](Ride check: 19.)[/i]
For the rest of the group, this is the first time anyone has seen Mortimer on horseback. He seems to be quite a competent horseman. You could learn a thing or two from the young sorcerer. ------------------------
From the Inbetwixt, to hear Mortimer refer to Phantom gets Lord Ambrose and Mortdecai's attention.
'He knows about Phantom?!' cries Mortdecai.
Ambrose replies, 'that would appear to be so.'
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; d20+4=19 ; Friday October 6th, 2023 5:40:36 PM
Manolo stocks up on his ammunitions. Manolo will ride a horse randomly.
Ride 19
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Friday October 6th, 2023 7:21:43 PM
Drack loads up as Loryn suggests, but the wood and torches go in the wagon. He didn’t wish to be slowed if his heavy horse needed speed, and he and his armor were enough of a load. He says nothing more regarding the manacles, or the goblins, Torry and Loryn seemed to cover it for him. He will ride out with no vengeance in his heart simply a desire to destroy evil and rescue the innocent. Drack is impressed with Mortimer’s horsemanship. Drack thought himself to be decent, but Mortimer seemed better.
“Let’s get a move on. Speed is of the essence. The faster we find them, the more will be alive. Protect the innocent and vanquish evil. That is the will of Domi.”
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d20=17 ; Saturday October 7th, 2023 9:09:29 AM
"Ooops, sorry Loryn. I was supposed to be talking to Gnubert, but i sort of got a bit confused, you know, what with trying to make stuff sound logical." She smiled happily. !It did sound logical though, didn't it?" Torryn wasn't typically one to put forth logical and philosophical points and the like, so felt rather pleased that her efforts were at least passable.
That morning she availed herself of extra arrows. It was probably pointless as she'd likely forget to use the bow again, but felt it was better to be adequately prepared. Besides the extra quiver might even remind her to use those arrows. Once mounted she tapped Spot on the neck.
"Come on, Spot. Let's show them who the best horse is." She encouraged before briskly setting off in pursuit on Mortimer.
(OOC: Ride: 25)
It was clear that Torryn had become used to riding Spot as she galloped up to Mortimer.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+6=19 ; Saturday October 7th, 2023 9:29:38 AM
(ride check 19)
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 Saturday October 7th, 2023 7:35:38 PM
Ash hops up for his ride. His spells are ready and hes prepared to head out.
GM Jon - Day 4 - Back into the woods Saturday October 7th, 2023 9:50:42 PM
OOC: When the GM's in the past made battle maps, did yall have avatars to move around or just initials? Just wondering before I make some maps
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:52/42. false life, darkvision Sunday October 8th, 2023 3:55:48 PM
(ooc: For all the many years I’ve been playing in the Wold, maps have always been very simple; letters or numbers for players and foes. However DM Ryan had made some most beautiful maps. We had little round portraits for avatars.)
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 Sunday October 8th, 2023 8:43:55 PM
Gnubert shakes his head and the various folks who attempt to dissuade him from justice, and most especially Randolf, who spat at the ground in Gnuberts direction,What is the matter with folks? Why do they not understand that good in all it's forms should trump evil, and darkness. Alemi, and Domi please light the path of good, and justice, and allow our feet to trod it. Please guide us safely to the children, to find them well, and unharmed. Allow us to be your instruments and see this journey through. Amen
"Thank you for this," Gnubert says to teh woodsmen as he clambers up on one of the wagons. Gnubert carefully de[posits the backage in his haversack. The cleric is not a good horseman, and grabs a set of reins. The cleric clicks his tongue and gets the wagon moving behind those on steeds.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Monday October 9th, 2023 5:09:37 AM
Much like Drack, Torryn had no thoughts of vengeance. However, neither was she much interested in justice. What was important to her were the lives of the children. She wanted to save them and everyone else who'd been taken. Then, she wanted to ensure that such things didn't happen again. She'd killed a lot of goblins already. She wasn't proud of that as some might be, but recognised the importance of protecting innocence, beauty and life itself.
As she rode, she thought on this and concluded that there were many different types of dance. Some were fast, gay and joyful; others were sedate and graceful; some were filled with drama and passion. There was room for all. How this translated to the current situation, she wasn't quite sure, but felt certain that it did. What lay ahead would no doubt be a dramatic 'dance'.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Monday October 9th, 2023 8:27:37 AM
Drack will ride his horse with the others, going as quickly as the wagon could manage. He tries to watch the surrounding areas for any sign of trouble or ambush
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Monday October 9th, 2023 8:27:50 AM
Drack will ride his horse with the others, going as quickly as the wagon could manage. He tries to watch the surrounding areas for any sign of trouble or ambush
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+7=23 ; Monday October 9th, 2023 8:28:15 AM
Perception 23
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; d20+10=11 ; Monday October 9th, 2023 8:16:22 PM
Manolo is busy focusing on riding rather than watching the surroundings. Perception 11
As they ride, he takes advantage from his elevated position.
When they approach the camp site, Mortimer will quickly invoke the powers of unlife to buff himself.
(Mortimer casts False Life. Duration: 6 hours. Effect: 14 temp. hitpoints. First cast: rolled natural 1, unacceptable! 2nd cast: d10+6=14, much better.)
GM Jon - Day 4 - At the Camp Monday October 9th, 2023 10:53:23 PM
Once equipped and provisioned, the party heads out. While you aren't charging into the woods, the carts do slow the speed down some. After a few hours of riding, in which Mortimer, Drack, and Torry all display high levels of riding skill, Randolf stops his horse, dismounts and heads into the brush to the right of the trail.
He comes back out a few moments later holding up a nasty looking metal trap. He waits for the party to converge on him, "This is a goblin foot trap. They use them on our wood cutters. I thought I had spotted something, and was hoping for a sign of one of the adults, but I found this. The blood on it is dry, but beware of where you walk if the goblins are this brazen, who knows whatelse thay may have in store."
Starting up again, it takes another few hours to reach the camp. [see map] The group enters in the lower edge of the map about H50. The first thing you all notice is the lack of noise. Until now, there have been birds singing, small animals moving about, and the wind blowing in the trees. Now nothing.
Randolf looks over the scene, "There are two tents missing, there should be six, I only see four." He dismounts and readies his spear, "Where do you want me?"
[ooc: if the map will let you, you can make little text boxes for your guys ... if not, tell me where you want to be and I'll figure out something]
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+6=14 ; Monday October 9th, 2023 11:10:14 PM
Ash looks around, scanning the woods around the clearing. Perception 14
Ooc: its asking for a MS login, I don't have one.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d20=14 ; d20=18 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 5:19:28 AM
Seeing Mortimer invoke his magic, Torryn decided that perhaps she ought to do the same. When the silence of the clearing was registered, she swiftly invoked her Fey Armour. (Mage Armour: Duration, 2 hours.) With an arrow nocked she eased Spot forward with her knees. (Ride:22). Being a big, heavy horse, Spot accorded her an excellent view of the area. She looked around and opened her senses to determine if any evil lurked nearby.
(Perception: 28. Detect Evil: 60')
She hoped that someone would tell Randolph to stay back and simply watch their backs. Goblins were tricky and might try a similar trick to last time; a multi-pronged attack.
(I managed to mark Torryn on the map: F,35 ish- with a stylised T. The editing function will permit me to erase and rewrite to move her.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 d20+7=10 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 8:19:31 AM
Drack dismounts and leaves his horse with the wagon, and pulls his sword. “What do you think Loryn? Have Randolph guard the wagon and horses, and then we can call him in when we have cleared area? Have Manolo lead us in, checking for traps as he goes?”
Drack still keeps out a careful on their surroundings(perception 10. Maybe not that careful an eye)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday October 10th, 2023 8:39:58 AM
(Will try and get to map when I get a chance)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Tuesday October 10th, 2023 9:28:28 AM
(the map is a little confusing for me. The wagon will stay out of the camp area. You can put Drack with the rest of the group, assuming that we will all go in together)
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Tuesday October 10th, 2023 11:38:42 AM
Loryn rides along on the giant gecko, getting used to the saddle again. Hours of riding is not what the gnome enjoys. But it was necessary to get to the destination as quick as reasonable and that eliminated walking.
The Leg trap concerned him, "Goblins setting snares only a few hours from Town, Not good."
Arriving at the camp site and hearing there are 2 tents missing produces a couple of thoughts, The first being that members of the camp took them and moved. Much like they were thinking.
Loryn dismounts with everyone else and answers Randolph first, "Just stick close to me" Drack's question confused him somewhat, and so he simply answers, "Um, sure."
Loryn waits with Randolph "We'll trail in as they move forward" he tells the man as the others take the lead.
Spells: Active: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:20/15/16. temp/hp:56/42. false life Tuesday October 10th, 2023 11:40:26 AM
(ooc: I don't own Microsoft anything ... I'm a life-long, old school Mac guy. Though I'm still able to view the map and manipulate it.)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:56/42. false life, sheild d20+4=18 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 4:39:24 PM
As Mortimer dismounts, he casts another spell as a precaution. Shadows coalesce around him forming a protective shield.
He carefully looks around and moves forward slowly; being wary of goblin traps. (Perception: 18)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:56/42. false life, sheild Tuesday October 10th, 2023 5:32:18 PM
(ooc: I was able to fashion a little blue square with a white M for Mortimer. It's embarrassing how incredibly difficult it was to produce that little, white M. lol :) And Ive worked as an Art Director / Graphic Designer for almost 30 years! )
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; d20+13=23 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 7:00:19 PM
Manolo leads the way while looking for traps.
Perception (trap finding) 23
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 d20+13=22 ; Tuesday October 10th, 2023 7:53:12 PM
Gnubert dismounts although not with the grace of the more accomplished riders. The mage hobbles the horse and gives him a quick pat on the neck. The gnome makes a careful sweep of the area looking for anything that might give a sign of the missing children, and townsfolk. (Perception DC 22)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 Wednesday October 11th, 2023 4:39:06 AM
Torryn was now poised, ready for trouble. She could swing her leg over Spot's back and drop to the ground should that be necessary. yet for the moment she chose to enjoy the benefit of the additional height that Spot gave her. It really did make a difference. Torryn wasn't tall. Spot was.
GM Jon - Day 4 - At the Camp Wednesday October 11th, 2023 4:21:51 PM
The party dismounts and look around the location.
When Randolf asks where the party "wants him?" Loryn directs him to "Stay close to me." Drack adds that "Randolf, would you mind looking after the wagons, and when we need your skills, we'll have you join us."
Randolf scratches his head and looks around, "Look I know you guys fight for a living, but these are my friends. However I understand your concerns, when you need me I'll be here."
Ash scans the woods for any trouble ... Highlight to display spoiler: {I mentioned the lack of noise. There is also the scent of burned meat in the air...}
Torry, using Spot as an elevation tool, also looks around the camp site and area Highlight to display spoiler: { The fire pit is easy to spot. It's got a ring of rocks around it. There is something hanging on the spit above the firepit. The shape looks odd, and that's when you realize it's a humanoid body. Beyond the fire there looks like two more bodies on the ground.}
Mortimer, after dismounting, moves into the camp as well. Highlight to display spoiler: { With your affinity with death ... you can tell something bad happened here ... and the dead are hurt and angry}
Gnubert parks the wagon, and hooks up with Loryn, after handing the guarding of the wagon over to Randolf
Manolo, following Mortimer, joins in on the scanning for issues.
[ooc: Sorry about yesterday, I was working on 'honey do's' all day long ugh ... the joy of marriage =)]
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 19 T: 14 F: 17 R: 6 F: 7 W: 11 HPS: 43/43 CMD: 6 d20+13=18 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 7:22:17 PM
Gnubert stays close to Loryn as they scan teh area. The cleric not seeing anything looks over the camp for any possible signs of the missing (Perception DC 18)
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 7:28:49 PM
"Do you see anything?", Manolo ask Mortimer.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:56/42. false life, sheild d20+4=21 ; Wednesday October 11th, 2023 11:10:44 PM
Mortimer senses are immediately flooded with a torrent rush of fear and anger. The silence is broken with with their cries; a deafening cacophony of shouts and howls of pain. He stumbles slightly from the sudden rush. He takes in a deep breath as he bolsters his resolve against the onslaught.
To answer Manolo, he answers, "So much pain and anger, the spirits of the dead still linger here." The expression of horror on his face is quickly replaced with a bristling fury.
He draws his sickle and advances further into the camp. (Perception: 21.)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d20=18 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 5:23:40 AM
"oh." Was al that Torryn said before moving Spot further into the camp. It was very quiet around the open area and her voice carried easily enough without shouting. She did her best to keep it level. "Looks like they cooked someone....or two. Why leave a..." It seemed wrong to call them 'food' or a 'a meal', so she didn't finish her sentence.
It felt like a trap. Torryn continued to scan her environs, utilising her Sacred Dancer ability to Detect Evil as well as her keen Fey senses.
Perception: 28
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday October 12th, 2023 8:59:49 AM
Loryn answers Randolph, "Not questioning your skill or desire here Randolph. Just pairing up and you're my pair." Loryn is looking about, more for things outside the old camp than clues within it. His ears open to his friends, but not much information is forthcoming and so he asks
"Ok what are you finding people? Do we have a trail to follow?" Loryn addresses Randolph again, "Can you track? If so, the horses and such can attend to themselves"
If Randolph can track, Loryn takes him into the campsite to find a trail to follow
Spells: Active: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday October 12th, 2023 9:48:42 AM
Drack moves into camp, and once the others start reporting their observations, he feels a rage build up inside him. Trying to calm it, he takes a knee, and says a prayer to Domi for the lives of the murdered. The Paladin remembers from his training that an angry fighter is usually a reckless fighter.
"We have found death and destruction Loryn. It looks like the goblins had....a meal. You might as well send Randolph in. If we can find a trail, we should. There is also another camp to check, but we should start here."
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 Thursday October 12th, 2023 9:50:21 AM
Lay hands: 8/8
Spells: Divine Favor Bless
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 35/35 ; d20+10=27 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 4:30:14 PM
Manolo tries to look again around and listen to what is happening or what is near. "Massacre ?", he asks in disbelief. Perception 27
GM Jon - Day 4 - At the Camp Thursday October 12th, 2023 7:59:22 PM
As stated, the area is devoid of sounds. While the smell of charred flesh is strong, the fire and coals are cold ... there are two bodies found at the fire pit. After throwing up, Randolf is able to identify them as a young couple, new to the area in the last few years. They were farmers, and specialized in herbs and flowers that attracted bees and other beneficial insects.
Mortimer and Manolo, moves towards the large rock, Mortimer having sensed or spotted something, find an adult body, pierced with goblin arrows. The adult is covering the bodies of two children.
For Mortimer/Manolo: DC 20 Medicine or Survival Highlight to display spoiler: { As you approach, you swear one of the kids' chest just moved slightly }
Failed Highlight to display spoiler: { As you approach, you see the kids, but not much else }
As Torry move closer to the tents with Ash close behind her, they spot two more bodies by the the last tent. The tent was set on fire, but the fire went out before the tent burnt down. The two bodies look, well weird. As the two approach them, they figure out what is "weird", the bodies are staked to the around, and someone or something has carved runes and symbols into the stomachs of these two ... also, their hearts are missing, taken from holes that were artfully and carefully made.
Drack, Loryn, Gnubert, and Randolf move up to the tents. Randolf, with tears in his beard, and rage on his face, looks around, and then begins slowly walking to the NE (the path the pink arrow is pointing to). Randolf stops twice and bends down to look at the ground. As he gets to Q8/9 he stops. Then turns and faces Loryn, Gnubert, Drack, and whomever else has followed the trio to this point. "There were or are at least 8 goblins. There are tracks of at least 3 adults, and 4 children. The tracks show the goblins were moving fast, and by the scuff marks I see, the children were having issues keeping up. Also, several of the captives are or were bleeding when they made this trail."
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 36/36 d20+13=23 ; d20+14=25 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 9:35:22 PM
Ash peers closer at the symbols, trying to see if he recalls them from anything. " Gray areas gone in my opinion."
Knowledge religion 23 Knowledge arcane 25
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:56/42. false life, sheild d20=12 ; d8+3=8 ; Thursday October 12th, 2023 11:20:00 PM (Both Heal and Survival are +0. d20=12.)
Mortimer hurries over to the three bodies by the large rock. "Oye, Gnubert," he yells, "Over here! Two youngin's and a man."
He kneels down next to the bodies and begins to roll the man's body off the children. He notices the many arrows plugged into his body. Mortimer adds, "The man is a goner, but the kids maybe not'!"
He throws off his haversack and pulls out a potion. He pulls the cork and feeds it to the closest child.
(Cure Light Wounds Potion: 8 points of healing to child1.)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d20=4 ; d6=1 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 4:05:47 AM
Toryn dismounted. She trusted Spot to wait for her. Checking the tent, she stared in disbelieving horror at the bodies before her. How could someone do that to another person? It defied comprehension. It would have easier to look away, but Torryn continued to stare. Did those symbols have any religious connotations?
(Know, Religion: 8)
She really ought to have paid more attention in Agratha's lessons. This was clearly nothing to do with dancing. That was about as much as she could tell. hearing Mortimer's cry, she hurried over.
"If someone needs healing, I can help with that." Drack was by far the better healer, but she could assist in her own small way, should that help be needed.
(Lay On Hands: 1 to the other child. Looks like this was a job for Drack!)
(Lay on Hands 1/5 used)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:24/19/20. temp/hp:56/42. false life, sheild Friday October 13th, 2023 7:44:27 AM
(ooc: Woldian House Rule - you can reroll 1’s when healing.)
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:34/34 AC:18 F10: R11 W:13 d6=3 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 8:08:08 AM
(OOC: Thanks. That becomes a mighty 3 instead :)
AC 13 HP 39/39 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+5=15 ; d20+4=21 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 9:51:41 AM
Loryn walks with Randolph trying to keep his own mind and stomach in check. When Randolph gets sick, Loryn feels his stomach churn, but he manages to turn and get himself under control and not contribute, Death was one thing, the wilds the creatures of the Wold, but this was different. This was evil. And why is there no sound around here? Insects, flies and the wind would not care about any of this. Loryn wanders a bit to a tree and looks up into its branches and then to the other trees about.
Loryn knew little about the art of the healer, but Gnubert was a skilled cleric and could handle anything if any were alive. Randolph has a trail. "It does not sound right that the goblins, who were apparently victorious here would go with such haste. Like Randolphs story, i think someTHING may have come after the goblins. "
The trouble now is the horses, carts and supplies. The carts would be a great hinderance to bring while tracking goblins and here at this terrible scene was not a good place to leave it all.
We have a trail to follow but we also have dead to care for and this is not the place to lay them to rest. Let's gather everything up and move away from here until the sounds of the natural Wold return. We can set our camp, lay our dead to rest and then come back to follow the goblins."
Spells: Active: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range 1d6+3 Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 6/6 3rd lvl: 4/4
Drack (Chris J) - hp 60/60 - AC 19 3d6=12 ; Friday October 13th, 2023 10:09:28 AM
When Mortimer yells for Gnubert, he instantly assumes there might be a survivor or two. He arrives as Mortimer pours a potion down the first childs throat. Drack will help Toryy, and Lay Hands on the other child, healing them for 12.
Once Drack looks at the symbols carved on the bodies, he remarks to the group. "That is not something goblins would do. this was either something else, or the goblins are following orders from something else. Something very evil is going on here. It must be ended."
"Let's see if there is a trail to follow first Loryn. Aside from that. these two kids should be taken home, assuming both survive."
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