The companions return to Falcon's Hollow after saving the young daughter of lady Cirthana from a sacrificial rite, where they routed an evil necromancer in mid performance of said rite. The necromancer, Zarrin, escaped with his life, but the companions discover the root of his power, an evil tome known as one of the Books of Vile Darkness. Now, they must figure out what to do with it.

---

27th of Muin, Thunresdaeg, 1700hrs

The companions rent rooms at The Sitting Duck for the week as they continue to rest and gather equipment for furthering their adventures. It is decided returning to the farmstead would be too dangerous for recovering the two horses that were left behind. The horses likely were not there anyway since Thorgwain left both barn double doors wide open for them to escape enclosure and not starve.

The decision to use the farmstead as a base of operations is denied when the magistrate points out they do not own the property. If by ash month or mid-Nion no one comes forward as relatives to the owners, the land will be auctioned.

---

Once again the companions have gathered in the tavern for an evening meal. After four days, restlessness has settled in. As they enjoy the meal and conversing on personal histories, dreams, goals, and the rumors heard around the hollow, they are interupted by an acolyte of the church.

"My apologies for interupting your meals." She says regretfully. She eyes them all with intense hazel eyes. Those eyes linger a moment longer on the young tribesman. She pushes a strand of hair behind her ear and smiles before turning to Myshra and continuing.  "Lady Myshra, your mother bids you and your companions come to the church at your earliest convenience after vespers. She has news of that which should be destroyed. Her words."

After receiving acknowledgement of the request, Augtry politely and kindly excuses herself. She looks toward Larn a last time before turning and leaving the tavern.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:42, Thu 15 June 2023.

Valeros' eyes twinkle, he's seen that look before. Larn might be a caught man before long! He himself had spent the time getting to know Xen himself, trying to figure out if he was over his head and misreading signs, or not, He was scared to death!

He nodded to Augtry when she left her message, "We'll be there directly at the appointed time. Miss Augtry, thank you." His new cloak was hanging on the back of the chair, it was excellent in quality, and he was working out in his new chain armor, getting used to it. When he got his new plate mail, he would put it in the kitty for the adventurers guild when they started it.

[Private to GM: Can you please update my AC, add it to my sheet and deduct the cost of chain armor and a cloak from my sheet.]

After she left, he told the others, "It sounds like she needs our help getting rid of that which isn't mentioned!" he whispered to the team
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:03, Sat 13 May 2023.

It is all a new experience for Larn, time spent at market or meals at the tavern where he wasn’t expect to serve the meal. It gave the young man a moment or two to reflect on other enjoyable things too so that when sister Augtry caught him looking at her his cheeks blush and he smiles. When she looks again his smile deepens, his voice was weak when he offers her a farewell as she left the tavern “at your service sister”.

“Do you think it that serious?” Larn asks Valeros. Getting out of town would be a relief for the tribesman but he feels that danger would lurk outside the safety of Falcon’s Hollow.
This message was last updated by the player at 14:03, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak had hoped that his new plate mail would be ready before they had to head out again.  But gods’ Will be done.

“We’ll be there after Vespers.  Until then, may the Saint watch over you.” He gives the girl what he hopes is a warm smile.  It was so important to keep the everyday kindnesses that separated the civilized from the savage.

When you battle evil, you always have to resist becoming it.  Even in the tiniest of ways.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:04, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Yes Larn, I do believe she is smitten with you. At least you know she is safe while you adventure! Playing with her hair, her blush and that smile, true signs of blooming love, you're a lucky man!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:04, Sat 13 May 2023.

Elmona sits listening as the acolyte speaks, and says nothing when she finishes. She remembers the conversation concerning a necromancer, but knows little beyond what she overheard. Perhaps this meeting is related to that matter, she thinks to herself. Looking at the one addressed by the acolyte, the one called Myshra, she waits to see what her response will be.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:04, Sat 13 May 2023.

Thorgwain bursts into laughter with a belly pumping up and down with each guffaw. "Waa ha ha ha! Oi don think he meant tha lass Val. Do ye think it, tha whi should no be named be serious?"

Thorgwain drinks the rest of his goat's milk.

"Don listen ta him lad. Valeros has tha charm of a mole rat."

[Private to Valeros: purely speaking to your CHA score... :o)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:05, Sat 13 May 2023.

"That's okay Thorgwain, women love me for my size!" and he grins at the shorter Dwarf as they head to the temple and the meeting.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:05, Sat 13 May 2023.

Thorgwain blows air from his mouth, moving his mustache outward then laughs even more. He follows Val to the temple.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 14:05, Sat 13 May 2023.

As Valeros and Thorgwain get up from the table to head out, Elmona grabs her sword and bow and rises also. She follows quietly along behind the pair her eyes trying to take in everything as she walks along.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:06, Sat 13 May 2023.

The words of Valeros surprise Larn, the youth blushes again. Lost for words he can only offer a smile to Thorgwain. Then glad to get away from the topic he grabs his belongings and follows along to the temple.
This message was last updated by the player at 14:07, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen has been lost in thought for some time while the group of companions surrounding her continues to grow. She thinks about her parents and whether or not they are safe now that she has been foolish enough to defy Vade.

When the others depart for the temple, Xen follows, a knot tightening in her stomach. It is good that they have a possible mission before them. Still the prospect of destroying something so powerful
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:07, Sat 13 May 2023.

Once they get to the temple after Vespers, Valeros waits with the others until they are summoned by the Priestess.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:07, Sat 13 May 2023.

While they wait, Duivelssmak prays quietly as he opens his heart and mind.  Sometimes when he does this, he gets a better sense of where things are going.

And sometimes he doesn’t…
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:08, Sat 13 May 2023.

Alaion was quiet as they were summoned to the church.

He waited outside with the others and checked Loki for the fit of his new armor and adjusted his own scale mail.  It would definitely take some getting used to for both of them.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:08, Sat 13 May 2023.

It is a few minutes past the hour of vespers when the companions gather in the cupula of the temple near the central fountain. Lady Cirthana greets them with a weariness evident in her eyes, yet she still offers a warm smile.

"It is good to see you all again, and I see you have added to your company of adventurers." Lady Cirthana says,  she nods a greeting to her daughter  then addresses the rest. "For those who do not know me, I am Lady Cirthana, prelate to this temple of Iomedae, or the goddess Pelor as known in these modern times."

"As adept Augtry hinted at, I have a quest for you all concerning the destruction of the vile tome you discovered. That is... if you want it."

"The Darkwood Vale has not always been the savage frontier it is today. More than a millennium ago,  a vast dwarven kingdom sprawled across the landscape and pervaded deep into the stubborn rock below. Their civilization was unrivaled in its time, but as most kingdoms do, the dwarves conquered themselves from within. As their glories became innumerable, the dwarve's decadence knew no bounds and their society began to collapse. Rampant indulgence fueled corruption, and soon the honor, discipline, and benevolence on which the kingdom was built gave way to petty infighting over status, wealth, and power. The tattered kingdom sputtered but its death was delayed by the rise of a new cult devoted to a mirthless ancient God known as Droskar. Hence, the name of the nearby Mt. Droskar."

"Droskar's followers reacted against the bon vivant trends that staggered the kingdom by instating a dogma of salvation through endless toil and subservience to the Dark Smith, as Droskar was often called in the first era of mankind."

"These things, I learned through some texts brought out of an ancient monastery devoted in the end to Droskar. It is to this monastery you must travel. The adventurers who brought me those texts have since gone back there for further adventure, but they are long overdue of returning. That was several months ago. Once there, you must find Droskar's Forge and destroy the tome."
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:12, Sat 13 May 2023.

"How do we destroy it Prelate? Burn it in the forge?" he asks in question, not sure of anything now. He looked at the others for other questions, letting them know he was not their voice, they each had their own.

He would now need to prepare for a longer trip, food and items, maybe within a few days at most they could head out, the evil wizards hot on their tail no doubt!
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:13, Sat 13 May 2023.

“Was this Droskar considered a god of good, or of evil?  I have met men of great virtue who had absolutely no sense of humor, so I recognize that mirthlessness in and of itself isn’t necessarily a mark of the shadow.  But if this deity is not considered a brother of the light, I hesitate to use his tools against an embodiment of evil.  Still, we must do what must be done, as always.”  He reflects quietly for a second, then adds, “Those poor dwarves…”
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:13, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I do not know Valeros." Lady Cirthan replies.  "It come to me as 'Destroy the book in the Foundry of Souls'.  I had to research the name and it leads to Droskar's forge and the monestary. You will have to figure this out when you get there, or travel to Falcarragh and do more research maybe. I can provide no further information on it."

She turns to Duivelssmak, "That is a good question for theologians.  My personal opinion is thus; Droskar willed the suffrage and subservience of His worshipers. This to me is evil in nature.  It is definitely on the side of chaos."

"Hmmm, the Foundry of Souls would be the Forge. An abandoned Dwarf underground city. It should be full of wealth. Vast wealth! Where would we be able to find a Bagof holding or some such item I wonder? I can't imagine. I can imagine death though! For failure!"

Elmona stands to the side as they are discussing the Book of Souls. Dwarven forges, Human Gods, and the like are things she has little knowledge of. But while she can contribute nothing to the discussion on how to destroy such a powerful artifact, she can at least provide support to the others as they attempt to do so, and what she will learn on the way will expand her knowledge and help her hone her abilities.

"Whether to Droskar or Falcarragh we go, I stand ready to assist. But if m'lady has not been able to ascertain more information on how to destroy the book, I see not where us traveling to Falcarragh will be of any greater use."

"Tha mount be volcanic." Thorgwain adds suddenly.  "O tha I am sure.  Vast dwarven kingdom, I donnae know aboot.  Mebbe it be erased from our history. Oi thought Forgehome be tha only dwarven kingdom 'sides tha Derosian Underworld one.  Mebbe it be part 'o tha."

Thorgwain pulls at the braids in his beard.  "Aboot tha book.  This foundry 'n forge could be like tha 'o Forgehome.  Aye, the volcanic heart 'o da foundry would likely destroy tha book."

"A volcano!" the priestess questions crossing her arms. She looks surprised at the dwarf. "Are you sure?  I have never heard references to a volcano here."

"Aye! Oi be as sure as ye stand'n before me."  Thorgwain sputters, giving the priestess a look that questions the dare of the priestess on his knowledge of the stone.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:13, Sun 05 Feb 2023.

“Then I suppose the best plan is to head directly to the forge without wasting time on additional research.  I’m certainly in favor of doing this, although the potentially chaotic nature of the forge still gives me pause.  The idea of using evil to fight evil doesn’t sit well with me… although allowing the vile book to survive is even less palatable.”

And although he leaves it unspoken, the mention of all that wealth awaiting them in the fallen dwarven kingdom does excite him a little.  He mainly wants to use it for charity, of course.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Sun 05 Feb 2023.

"There is a difference between chaos, and evil Duiv. The Blood Wars were fought between Law and Chaos, good and evil fought together to oppose each other. Lawful good, fought together with lawful evil, to oppose chaotic good, and chaotic evil. I'm not sure how it worked out for them, that  was a long time ago."

"I will give you all a few minutes to discuss it among yourselves before deciding."  Lady Cirthana says.  "I have something else for you.  I will return shortly."

The prelate leaves the companions at the fountain and enters what they have come to know as the infirmary.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:28, Sun 05 Feb 2023.

"Well! A holy quest."  Myshra says excitedly.  "Exploring places that may not have been seen in a millennium.  We have to do this. It might not be getting the necromancer yet, but it is definitely something important."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 22:32, Sun 05 Feb 2023.

“I’m sure that’s true, Valeros.  We followers of The Saint tend to strongly associate law with goodness, but they are, of course, not identical.”

Even good spits in the street now and then, he muses.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:40, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

Valeros waits patiently, and quietly for the Priestess to return as she said she would.

[Private to Valeros: Thorgwain and Finn are present.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:19, Mon 06 Feb 2023.

Lady Cirthana returns from the infirmary arm in arm, surprisingly, with Xune. As they come nearer, it becomes evident why no one has seen Xune in days. One eye is still swollen,  nearly shut. An arm is in a sling and she grimaces with a gasp at each step. Her one eye is defiant and full of pride. One might ask, why she has not been healed of such grievous wounds.

"She would not allow it." The prelate says in response to the unasked question.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:29, Mon 06 Feb 2023.

"Moradin's Teeth!" Dani sputters drawing near to the dark elf. "Who- what-"

Tears well in her eyes as she recalls thnking the elf had just up and left.

"Bllod n ashes!" Myshra says, forgetting herself. "I'm so sorry Xune."
This message was last updated by the GM at 19:33, Mon 06 Feb 2023.

"Xune! We thought you were with us! You disappeared and now turn up here, badly and sorely used! Is this from the fight the other day saving the children and the priestess, or have you been attacked? If you have been attacked, point out the assailants and I shall thrash them! You are our friend! Get yourself healed and come with us, we can use your skill."

Xune tries to smile, but only half her lips twitch in the attempt. "I would not betray you." She says to Myshra. She examines the party before her, recognizing all but two. "Contrary to what many believe. I would not betray any who put their trust in me."

Not knowing the newcomer, but seeing that the others greeted her fondly, Elmona relaxes a little. She extends her hand in friendship, telling the grey elf, "While we have not met, since these others seem to think fondly of you, I extend my hand in friendship to you, and will assist you as you need."

Finn is occupied with his thoughts.  Exactly what did he get himself into?  An ancient Dwarven city that might be full of undead toiling endlessly?  Even if it turns out to be only philosophical how did they fall into work and no play?  They must be dull indeed.

His thoughts turn to the purple elf with the white hair.  Finn had seen Elves before, he could read their language.  He never met one so coloured before but he'd met bluish Sea Elves and greenish Wood Elves so why not?

It was a shame she appeared injured but hopefully she would let herself be healed before they left for this monastery.  Finn would introduce himself later when the spellcasters compared notes on spells and what might be traded or any missing spells they might want.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:42, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

"How would you betray us Xune? We invite you as a full partner in our adventuring group. You are a skilled warrior who devotes yourself to your friends, you have proven yourself to us."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:43, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

Duivelssmak looks about Xune's injuries with disgust.  Who was responsible for this outrage?  But he also found it strange that she had refused to be healed.  More was going on here than met the eye, and he didn't like it.  But he said nothing.

"Can you please heal her Duiv, I would like to see her whole, May he heal you Xune?" Valeros asks her, then he turns to the Priestess, "Thank you for giving her back to us, we missed our new friend!"

Val gave her a big hug, trying not to hurt her.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:26, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

Xune takes the elf's offered hand. " Well met Elmona. I am Xune Vvedryx."

She turns to Valeros as he speaks and acquiesces with a simple nod. Immediately Myshra  and Duivelssmak lay a hand on her shoulders, uttering the sacraments for healing through the graces of Iomedae and St Cuthbert. A warmth, not of temperature but of comfort, suffuses the dark elf's body. Swelling in her face subsides, her breathing becomes less labored, and pain in her arm abates. She closes her eyes, letting the feelings roil through her. Finally she opens her eyes and removes the sling from her arm.

"Blessings upon those who help those in need." She says to Duiv and Myshra. An unusual thing for a dark elf to say, but only en elf would pick up on that.

"Lady Cirthana has explained where we must go to destroy the vile thing. I will gather my things and meet you where?"

Once she has the answer, she returns to the infirmary to gather her belongings.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:27, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

While Xen is still unsure what to think of Xune, she can't help but smile at the sight of her. Such a mysterious companion. Of course she would pop up out of nowhere! Xen is also relieved to see her accept the offered healing. She waits until Duiv and Myshra finish their work before offering the dark elf her own greeting. "It's good to see you, Xune. I'm glad you are with us again!"

"I'm assuming then that you accept the quest, I have two potions of healing for each of your clerics."

Lady Cirthana turns to her daughter, "Please come with me daughter."

She regards the òthers, "She will return to you later. If there are no further questions?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:25, Wed 08 Feb 2023.

"Does anyone oppose the job? I like it, it holds great promise and great risk. We'll have to be good, maybe practice working together a little everyday during the trip so we can get more used to fighting together." he says to the group together.

"It sounds like a good cause. I will lend what aid I can," replies Elmona in her light slightly musical accent indicating her acceptance of the task.

Xune returns, wearing her familiar scalemail and strange daggers with curvy blades. She passes Lady Cirthana and offers her express gratitude for saving her life.

She rejoins her companions at the fountain. "There is goodness here." She says. "It pervades the very stonework. In fact, I suspect there is much more to this temple than one can observe."

"I think we have concensus Lady Cirthana, we'll do it! It will mean we don't have to look for the big bad evil guy, he'll be looking for us! We might kill two birds with one stone, or die together." He then looks at all of his companions and smiles, he was a lucky man, surrounded by such brave and skilled warriors, and women, beautiful women! It might be hard for him.

As Lady Cirthana and Myshra are walking away, a man is escorted into the cupula by another doorway. He is a tall human with dark wavy hair that extends to his shoulders. Dark, intense eyes scan the room, finally landing on Lady Cirthana. He begins removing gloves from his hands, pulling at the leather too urgently. The man seems tense.

"This man requests your counsel straight away lady." The acolyte Augtry calls. She nods to the man and turns back the way she had come.

Lady Cirthana says something to her daughter, who then continues into another hallway. The prelate moves to greet the man without expression.

[Private to Xenaryn: Xenaryn recognizes Shavaros Vade immediately. His eyes linger on Xen for a long uncomfortable moment, his expression unreadable, but the disappointment hidden in those intense eyes, it brings a flush to her cheeks. One thing she is sure of; he is not his usual controlled self.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:18, Wed 08 Feb 2023.

Valeros came out of his reverie when the stranger rushed in. He didn't recognize him, and he knew a lot of people in town from all of his time working in the lumber mill. He looked him up and down and took in all of the details, his curiosity getting the better of him. He wondered who the new guy that Thorgwain brought from the Duck was too and what his specialty was. He assumed an arcanist since he was dressed pretty and had no visible way to defend himself. The newest looked to be a warrior though, maybe another cleric?

Duivelssmak approaches Valeros and says quietly, "Perhaps we should stick around and make ourselves available in case we are needed.  This newcomer looks to be here on a matter of some urgency..."

Xen freezes when the wavy haired man's eyes fall upon her. She can feel the blood rushing to her cheeks, blushing her face. After an eternal moment, when his gaze passes on to Lady Cirthana, she breathes again.

"That's him," she mumbles to Valeros. "That's Shavaros Vade!"

Shavaros Vade speaks with the prelate in low tones. Lady Cirthana shakes her head at one point and responds in equally low tone.  The man's eyes shift to the companions gathered on the other side of the fountain while the prelate speaks. He is dresses in a fine black doublet with silver buckles. His leggings are black and are tucked into high black leather boots. Several rings adorn fingers on both hands and a sapphire blue gemstone pendant hangs from a silver chain.

[Private to Xenaryn: Vade's eyes meet yours and squint in contemplation as the prelate is speaking, then open in awareness. Xen has the distinct feeling Shavaros has just put together what you all might be doing at the temple. ]
Turning his attention back to the prelate, he gestures in the direction of the infirmary with harsh sounding utterances before turning on his heel and leaving rather quickly. The prelate sighs heavily, crossing her arms. She watches the doorway for several moments after Shavaros is gone, a thoughtful look upon her visage. She then returns to her original destination before being interrupted.

Valeros puts his arm around Xenaryn's waist and holds her tight while the man she identifies as Shavaros Vade is present. He tries to lend her strength. The man looks as if he can be a great deal of trouble, but doesn't think he will bother with them himself just yet. They are considered beneath him. His necromancer friend and his undead minions were quite something else. Will they encounter them during their travels, he wonders inwardly. "Hopefully we can leave soon. I think we should add a big tent for us to sleep in too."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:47, Thu 09 Feb 2023.

""Donnae get yer hopes up." Thorgwain quips, amused at the double meaning in those words. "Big tent like tha be heavy Oi be think'n."
This message was last updated by the player at 23:21, Thu 09 Feb 2023.

Meek and humble in the temple Larn listened to the Lady’s word and the great quest that was set before them. Such quests were the stories of legend. Not something that Larn would have imagined only a few days ago. Now it seemed his fate was intertwined with it. The boy nodded his agreement to delve into the forgotten dwarven home.

Finn attention is drawn from Xune's Kriss daggers to Xen's uncomfortable stance and Valeros's embrace.  He frowned, his eyes drawn to the mysterious man talking with Lady Catherin.  Something was off.

  Thorgwain's rebuttal for the tent reminded him why he was here, and at least there was another new companion in the group besides him.

"I do not own a horse, but if you can lend me money for a saddle I can make my way to where we are going.  I have a lantern and two oils to contribute and I can sleep under my cloak.  If this Dwarven enclave is near a volcano it should be warm, right?"

"We get a mule or two to haul the tent and any treasure we might find. A water barrel and extra food too." He relays to the others. He looks at them waiting for objections or ideas.

"Donnae think we be gett'n far sans a map." Thorgwain adds. "What be 'n tha woods might be worth avoid'n?

"The forest can be very dangerous, common predators are jaguars, giant boa snakes, ravenclaws or rooks, giant eels (in water), kobolds. I'm sure there are others as well, but they are most common. I worked in the cutyards, a lumberjack!"

"There's a dragon too." Dani adds. "A green one. I heard tale of it from a dwarf named Karok when I-- well, at The Rouge House. He and his companions lost a mate to the beast. Dreadfully scary tale it was. His group was at this monastery. Lost some companions there too."

Realizing the group lady Cirthana had mentioned was Karok's, Dani sighs in dismay. "Oh Karok. What did you all get into?" She mutters. "He was such a sweet man. Gruff but always treated me with respect. I loved listening to his stories."
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:32, Fri 10 Feb 2023.

"Karok is dead now? Is that what you said Dani? I didn't really know him or his group, maybe they are still alive, we'll try to take care of them if we find them, dead or alive."

"Dead? I dont know." Dani replies to Valeros. "Lady Cirthana said they returned to the monastery and haven't returned."

"The Falcon Six they called them. Heroes of the Hollow." She says, thoughtful. "They saved the town from the black scour fever. Well, not everyone. Some still died."

Dani grows quiet as grief takes her breath from her. Her little brother, so tiny, died from the taint. She turns away from everyone.

Duivelssmak waits politely for a moment before changing the subject.

“Sorry if I’m interrupting, but something just occurred to me.  This volcano we’re traveling to… is it still active, by chance?  Because if it is, it might turn out to be a factor.”
This message was last edited by the player at 02:12, Sat 11 Feb 2023.

Elmona continues to silently listen to the ideas and banter. She is in unfamiliar territory dealing with volcanoes and dragons, as the forests were more her territory. She mentally ponders if there is anything she should ask, but nothing comes to mind yet.

Xen tenses slightly in Val's embrace. While she is flattered by the fighter's attention, she cannot shake the dread feeling in the pit of her stomach born from Vade's knowing look. "He knows," she explains in a frantic whisper. "Vade knows we're trying to destroy the book! We need to get to this volcano as fast as we can!"

"Nay.  Not topside anyways. Been dormant for millennia." Thorgwain answers Duivelssmak's question. "Aye, but down below.  Ye may jus find some hot spots."

Lady Cirthana returns to the cupula from the hallway with Myshra in tow.  They approach the companions who are still at the fountain and have been conversing.

"Light upon you.  You are still here." the prelate says, smiling warmly.  "Good.  I return to you my daughter.  Keep her safe, if you will."

"We shall do our best! She will be safe with us," knowing she was dangerous to be out on her own, she was almost sacrificed after all!

With business concluded with Lady Cirthana, the companions head back to The Sitting Duck and their waiting rooms.  Lady Cirthana provided a crude map with the general location of the monastery (See Game Map).  Valeros is, of course, familiar with all the cutyard locations on the map, and even a few newer ones not listed.  Myshra gives Duivelssmak two of the potions of healing (strong) as they wind through the roads back to the tavern.  The sun has set and the streets are dark now.  Homes are lit by candle and the smell of cooking wafts through open windows.

[Private to Daniella: Several times, you have caught the glance of someone paying too close attention to the party from the shadows, or just passing by on the street.  It is enough to make her nervous.  Is it Kabron's crew or Vade's?]
The Sitting Duck is busy.  Local cut yarders, town citizens, and a mix of adventurers all drinking, carousing, and some playing at cards.  Mari greets the party on entering.

"A table?  Will you be dining?"  she asks.

Xune disregards the looks from the patrons.  Yes, I am a dark elf, she mutters to herself, pulling her cowl farther over her head.  She scans the room, and keeps a hand on her money pouch as she threads the crowded room.  "I think I will turn in for the night." she says to her companions.  "If Dani will show me to the room."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:44, Sat 11 Feb 2023.

"I will go with her as well." Myshra says to the others over the noise of the crowd.

Their quest set Larn wondered if he’d even see his brothers again. Despite their unfair treatment of him Larn would still miss them. The noise of the tavern and crowds of people didn’t make Larn feel any more at home or settled. When people went to bed Larn went too “I’ll prepare the horses in the morning” he promised everyone before he retired.

Finn notes from the map that no matter which way they go the party will have to cross the river.  Hopefully their was a shallow place to cross because he did not know how to swim.  From what he gathered a party of adventurers had been to the monastery before.

"It looks like most of us are not getting a table tonight Mari.  We have a long walk ahead of us tomorrow.   I need a place to sleep tonight.  What are the prices?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:32, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

The party, or most of them, head upstairs to their rooms, whereupon they find each have been tossed.  Everything has been gone through, clothes lay scattered; packs opened and dumped upon the tossed beds.  The only thing found to have been taken is the smaller strongbox from Wilhelm and Minara's home that Dani kept which contained the party's kitty fund for finances.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 13:42, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

"Blood'n Ashes!" Dani exclaims when opening the door to their room.  She stands there, scanning the disarray in the room.  "Well, we know what they were looking for."

she begins picking up and organizing things.  It is a mess.  It will take an hour just to clean up.

"I have to let Valeros and Alaion know." Dani says, turning and heading back downstairs.

When she gets there, she calls them to the side and informs them of what they just found upstairs.

"I'll bet your rooms look the same." She says, scanning the crowd in the room.  There were the instances on the way to the tavern where she felt being watched.  She trusts her gut, and now she looks around the room. 

---

(OOC)
08:50, Today: Daniella, rolled 15 using 1d20 ((15)) - Perception WIS 11

"This is outrageous! Having our rooms all sacked in the town inn! I want a full refund for the nights we spent here!" Val screamed at the top of his lungs, he was visibly angry and upset, even though it was only a few gold, Val kept his share in his money purse/money belt. "They allow thieves access to your rooms here! Don't stay here, they are crooks!"

He packs his gear up and heads for the door to look for a secure room. He stops and looks around, "Teach us for doing a good deed for a town of ingrates!" If smoke could come out, the room would be full of smoke, he was livid!
This message was last edited by the player at 15:48, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

Val stopped and took 3 DEEP breaths and he calmed a wee bit. The anger was still evident and he looked through the owner/bartender! Waiting for a reply and an apology. The rooms had been locked, so there was no excuse, they let anybody wander upstairs?

At Valeros' outburst, the whole room quieted. Mari's eyes become wide as saucers and not knowing what to do or say, she bolts to get the innkeeper.  She returns with him in tow.  Qiven Dorris is tall and dressed in common work clothes. A cloud of smoke follows him where ever he goes from his constantly burning pipe. However, the smell is not of harsh tobacco, but the sweet aroma of mixed herbs.

"Now, now.  What's with all this yelling and shouting?" Qiven asks, looking around at the patrons standing.  Mari gestures to Valeros. "You say your rooms were broken into? You want your money back, is that it?  While I do not condone such activities in my inn, I cannot exactly control if a thief takes it upon himself to do such a thing. It is most unusual.  We have not had a confirmed theft here in years. I do apologize for any inconvenience.  I can offer you free lodging for the rest of the month as recompense.  If that is not satisfactory, I am afraid you must find lodging elsewhere."

There are murmurs among the crowd that look on. A chiseled fellow with black wavy hair looks on with an amused expression from a table where some adventurers are playing cards.  "Maybe they didn't lock their doors." He quips aloud with a smirk.  "Yeah, shouldn't leave things lie around.", a hawkish fellow says sitting next to the first.

Another man, a cutyard worker Valeros is familiar with shouts, "Hey, I got broke into.  Do I get free lodging too?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:58, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

"Come," he wiggles his finger summoning the innkeeper, "See for yourself, they were tossed and valuables were stolen. They were locked!" He glares upon the loudmouths, rising to his full height, challenging them, "Tell it to my face dog!"

Duivelssmak calmly asks the innkeeper and anyone else within earshot if anybody or any thing suspicious was seen prior to the theft.  But he is concealing anger, hot as the volcano they are traveling to ever was.

We could have been murdered, he muses.  And these people don't care.

Xen, having left her new companions to spend a final night at her parents' home, misses all the excitement. Instead of witnessing Val's tirade, she visits quietly with her mom and dad, warning them to steer clear of Vade, but not explaining why, figuring the less they know the better.

Though worried about the upcoming journey to the underground dwarven kingdom, she sleeps soundly, unaware of the chaos occurring at the inn.

Finn finds the situation most amusing.  At least it shows they were doing something right and annoying to Vade.  He tries to think of how he can turn this around.

Speaking loudly enough to be heard by more than just the Innkeeper he interjects.

"You know who cares less about our problems than we do, Valeros?   Everybody.  However I think this is your problem too, good innkeeper.  You'll have to pardon my friend but it is kind of upsetting to us that we were robbed in your establishment.  If this Were sanctioned by whatever 'guild' runs these things then the message has been received by us, although I am not sure what we have done. Any members within your tavern would know that this hurt us."

"I'm sure that you have an 'arrangement' to be left alone.  If this were not sanctioned then..." Finn remove his hat and places it over his heart.  "...Then I feel sorry for that individual."  He places the hat back on his head.  "Either way you've been wronged, good sir, and to be honest I was most concerned with not being able to pay you for the rooms we have."

He keeps looking at the couple that shot off at him, glaring at them, challenging them to rise up and face him! He looks a the new guy, Finn, and thought he might be good to have around! He leads the innkeeper to their rooms and shows the destruction, and accepts the free room and board, for when they come back to town.

When the innkeeper leaves he looks to the others, and says in a low voice, "I think we should leave soon, they're coming after us. How much did they actually get Dani? I kept my money on me. I knew the lock box would be a target." You can tell he was pissed, but not as mad as he acted.

"They took the kitty." Dani replies apologetically. "120 copper pence and 60 silver coin."

"Thank you Dani, they didn't get much then. Good thing we had divvied the treasure."

"Should we stay here? Maybe trap your door and window and make the innkeeper set up a guard. Or should we set off or find other lodgings? I think we should get a good nights rest, buy a few items early in the morning, and set off at a fast pace. Ideas?"

Elmona stands there watching the unfolding drama, but does not get involved. Having just recently joined up, she had nothing invested in the lockbox, and if they had taken her savings it would have amounted to a mere trifle of what the dark-haired female had said. Still, the thought that the inn had either allowed, or was unaware of, the theft causes her concerns that she mentions.

"Although I have lost nothing and have only just recently joined, it would be inadvisable to remain here because these thieves could very well be assassins in the future, if someone should deem it necessary."

Looking at Qiven, she states matter-of-factly, "You will not only refund any moneys that have been paid to you, but you will not charge anyone of these, who have been wronged, of their lodgings. Otherwise, I shall find no recourse but to have the local authorities start an investigation into the practices of this inn." Her tone of voice is flat and her stance dares the innkeeper to argue with her.

Qiven follows the party upstairs after a baleful glare at the heckling patrons. The rooms are indeed in disarray, having obviously been searched. The door locks are not broken, so it was definitely a thief with skills. He listens to Finn and Valerilos talk without being moved.

The innkeeper turns to a new voice and is soon giving rapt attention to the female elf. He nods at her in acquiescence finally. [Private to Elmona: Persuasion success]

"Of course madam." Quven says, wringing his hands together. "This will be no problem. You are welcome to stay at no charge for the remainder of Muin. But, i understand if you choose otherwise. I will refund your week's charge for three rooms. Never let it be said Qiven is not a fair man."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:36, Tue 14 Feb 2023.

His mind already in a sense of flux Larn is befuddled by the mess in the bedchamber. He is  upset and disturbed. It hits close to home and reminds the youth of the pranks his older brothers would often play on him.

“I’m sorry we have caused you trouble.” He says apologetically to Qiven, not blaming the landlord but taking the fault as his own. Is it a bad omen for their quest, he wonders. Or a sign to get on the road?

“I’m happy to guard any valuables in the future.” He offers to his companions. He wants to calm everyone down and bring peace to them.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:14, Tue 14 Feb 2023.

Myshra stops tidying up and turns to the doorway. "Are we staying here or no?"

"I can't make that decision Myshra, the party must decide together. Well everyone, stay here, or go to the other establishment? The locks here are obviously insufficient. We can't Wizard Lock or whatever it is called all of the doors, so it won't be safe."

"I know little of who your adversaries may be, but will anyplace be safe? Would we not be as safe sleeping in a random spot in the wilderness than an established, known spot in this town?", Elmona inquires.

"You are correct, our adversary can just scry us and know exactly where we are at any time."

Finn checks his goods to see if the thief or thieves stole his hidden platinum piece.

"I don't blame you, Qiven.  You are fair.  But if you are paying 'insurance protection' as a cost of business I would complain.  I am sorry we were not more subtle."

"I think we should stay."

Xune is listening but not really caring one way or the other where they stay. She has her daggers. Let anyone-- She breathes deeply to steady her nerves . Her eagerness for violence is something she struggles with constantly.

"We are as safe here as anywhere. And now it is without charge." She says with calmer emotion. She turns her red eyes on Valeros. "We are armed and prepared should someone try anything. Next time we leave wards or traps for those unwise enough to get into things they should not."

Her eyes dance with eagerness at the thought of that happening.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:19, Tue 14 Feb 2023.

"I agree." Dani adds. "Stay the night here. Buy rations and water tomorrow and get going. We need a guide or a plan of direction we are taking. We have a map. Also, we need to sort who scouts and what rank and file will move forward with."
This message was last updated by the GM at 23:18, Tue 14 Feb 2023.

"Sounds like we're staying, you need better security innkeeper, or a guard to make sure your patrons are safe. Let's get some rest."
This message was last updated by the GM at 23:19, Tue 14 Feb 2023.

With a smile at Elmona the inkeeper replies, "I will post a guard this night. You will be safe."

The night for the companions passes uneventfully. No thieves in the night through door or window which were warded by alarm spells from Xune and Alaion.  All the companions wake feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. Breakfast, a large one, is had without charge this morning as instructed to Mari by Inkeeper Qiven Dorris.

The companions visit the high market and low market, gathering needed items. Finally a visit to the local stable and corral and they secure animals of burden.

---

(OCC)
Please send private note to me in your next post indicating any items purchased. If it's not on your chracter sheet, your character does not have it.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:47, Sat 13 May 2023.

Although the door had been warded, Elmona slept lightly during the night. She knew the spells would work, but worried there might be other ways.

In the morning, she heads to the markets, hoping that the supplies she needs aren't too expensive.

[Private to GM: Wanting to purchase some bitumen and a jar or two, depending on cost. Only a little over 2 GP available.]
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:48, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak sleeps badly, convinced they were making a mistake by not guarding themselves in shifts.  That was how they would do it in the wilderness, so why not here?  But like a fool, he’d said nothing.  Afraid that his suggestions would be seen as demands by the others, perhaps.  Was he being cowardly, or prudent?  He wrestled mentally with himself until morning, although he knew he was being stupid.

In the morning he ate sparingly and then made an effort to acquire three flasks of holy water.  Why hadn’t he done this before?  So many mistakes, and their quest had only begun…
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:49, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen sleeps soundly at her parents' home. The next morning, she returns to the inn, eager to continue her adventure with her new companions. "Good morning," she starts, completely unaware of the previous night's robbery. "How did everyone sleep?"

[Private to GM: Xen will purchase a week of iron rations and (if she can find it) a small bell and a thread of silver (for the alarm spell, which she copied from Alaion previously).]
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:49, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Our rooms were tossed yesterday, so we're getting what we need as quickly as possible and getting on with it as quick as possible and try to outrun he who is watching us. We need any more healing potions? Make sure you have plenty of rations."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:49, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Tossed?" Xen gasps. "You mean someone broke into your rooms? Who? And why?"

The sorceress contemplates the growing fame of her friends and the unintended consequences of such notoriety. "I've purchased a week of rations," she replies to Val. "I hope that's enough. And I'd be willing to pay for two healing potions, but I've no interest in going anywhere near the tower to get them."

She casts a eye at the others, "But if someone else were willing to go?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:50, Sat 13 May 2023.

Alaion had remains quiet during Valeros' outburst and draws no weapon.

Valeros seems obviously annoyed and keeps Loki at bay as he focuses on the adventurers in the tavern while everyone else talks. It's important to take in every detail he can see of them; their manner of dress, how many there were, and if they were looking at them or mumbling. If any looks his way, he would give them a smile. All he does though is look back at the adventuring party at the table. [Private to Alaion: There are five of them.  Through observation you determine two are obvious fighters, another perhaps a mage. One is definitely a rogue, and the last is a mystery. One fighter has a battle axe nearby and wears chain mail beneath a green tunic.  He has a hardened, angular face with a broad chin, black hair and dark eyes.  The other fighter has a sword on his back and wears chain beneath a black leather tunic. His face is softer and sports a black goatee peppered with gray.  The suspected mage is wearing only a cowled black robe. His skin is dark, much too dark to be a tan and seems foreign.  But from where? A white scar runs the length of his dark face from forehead to below the ear.  The rogue laughs and giggles a lot and watches everything in the room.  A coin flips deftly between his fingers as he talks. The mystery man seems sullen and quiet.  With green eyes and sandy brown short hair, the man watches Valeros with amusement. His is a look of confidence born from faith.]

"I think we should stay here tonight, take everything we own every time we leave our rooms, and get any extra gear we need and leave mid-morning...if not stay one more day and night."

The next day, he looks to Xenaryn and speaks up.

"I can go by the wizard tower and get anything you need.  I need to see what alchemy items or potions he has anyway."

[Private to GM: I have Scale Armor that I bought and Leather Barding for Loki he is wearing.   Will check and see anything else I purchased.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak inquires as to whether or not holy water would be available at the Wizard’s Tower.  Even as he asks the question, the words sound strange to him.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Healing potions and Holy Water will be available at the temple, or for non-holy types, the alchemist next to the tower. I don't know their costs. I guess we will actually be walking, the forest is VERY thick and rough terrain."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

"The alchemists shop does not have holy water," Dani says. "But they have healing potions for 50 gold apiece."
This message was last updated by the player at 13:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

Finn practices his magic before turning in to sleep.  He tries both to lighten and darken the light levels to mixed results.  He got flahes of light like his "Colour Spray" spell but the effect did not last long.  Someday soon he"d master the effect.  Exhausted he goes to sleep for the night.

In the morning the Magic User eats a large a breakfast as he can manage, considering the fact that there was only bread for dinner tonight and rations afterwards.  He would have a pot in case they find food or need to boil water but otherwise only has food for seven days.

After breakfast he compliments Mari and heads to the market for supplies.  He can not afford healing potions and contemplates getting a chicken to eat on the way to where they were going but decides it's too much trouble.  He also visits the stable behind the inn for horse hair before they leave town.


[Private to Hand of Fate:

Ok... recordkeeping.

Before going to sleep he casts the "Armour" spell.

Finn would like to make the upcoming 2nd level spell he learns to be "Continual Light."

He buys the following items before adventuring (sigh):


In pouch (2.1)
  Chalk, stick of (per stick) .01 2
  Fishhook .01 .1

In backpack (70.1)
  Ink, 2 oz. pot of .5 10
  Soap, 8 oz. bar of .02 5
  String, 50′ .01 10
  Wax, sealing, lb 1 10
  Whetstone .5 5
  Bit & Bridle .15 20
  Comb .1 5
  Needle, sewing .01 .1
  Thread, 1 spool .05 5


Scrollcase (57)
Case, bone, map or scroll 2.5 50
  Papyrus, 2 sheet# 2 2
  Pen, fine, metal .1 5

Carried (142)
  Bedroll 1 80
  2 Sheaths, dagger 1.2 10
  Pot, iron cooking .03 50
  Cord, 10′ .1 2
  Bread, loaf of .01 25

Worn (0 cn (75))
  Whistle .5 5
  Symbol, Holy, wooden .07 10
  Gloves, leather .07 10


Total (8.94 gp / 296.2 cns)

(Gods, moving at 60'.  At least I can toss cheap items if I have to later.  Be prepared.)

]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:52, Sat 13 May 2023.

Valeros buys 2 Healing Potions and adds them to his pack, they will come in handy. and 2 weeks of rations.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:52, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Well, we got a map, I say that we head out. They can board our horses and such at the stable while we're gone, it's going to be a long hard walk. The first part of the trip is logging trails, which are rough enough as we'll find out. After that, there is no trail, lots of undergrowth and clutter. Our trailblazer can follow game trails and such to get us through. Then comes the mountain and the volcano. Shall we set a general order now, or when we get to the forest. Vade and his minions will do anything to stop us, they want the book desperately. So, we have to keep our eyes open too. We can get game for meat on the way too, there is plenty of it. Are we ready to move out?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:52, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Aye 'n who be the trailblazer?" Thorgwain asks.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 13:53, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen digs out 300 gold pieces from her pack and gives it to Alaion. She has never spent so much at one time and while it troubles her slightly to do so, the thrill of being part of this group of adventurers (and the dread of working against her former mentor) convinces her she is doing the right thing. "This should be enough for four healing potions," she tells the elf. "And a misty escape vial. Thank you for getting them for me. It's not that I'm scared. I just don't think it's a good idea for me to be anywhere near Vade. He's so... I just don't think I should go up there."

When Thorgwain asks about who will lead, she sits quietly, staring down at her hands. She knows that isn't her role, and for that she is thankful.

[Private to GM: I subtracted 303gp from my character sheet (from 539 to 236), but didn't add the potions yet. Did Xen lose any money in the robbery? I'm not sure we established where her coins were. We talked about long term "banking", but I don't think anyone followed through on that. So I'm on board if she doesn't still have the 539. Let me know and I'll adjust my post accordingly.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:53, Sat 13 May 2023.

Rich from their battle Larn purchases six healing potions. He’d rather be poor and alive that rich and dead.

At breakfast Larn serves food and helps pack gear as much as he can. He still feels like an interloper with this gang of adventurers. He was just a youth and worked hard to make himself useful.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:51, Sun 19 Feb 2023.

"Well, it's the third hour, let's go. When we get to the forest, I guess we'll figure things out, I know the forest from being a lumberjack, so I guess i can lead the way of the main party. Not sure if anyonw will scout or can, we don't have ranger. We got a druid, my mind is getting foggy in my old age I guess."

Alaion and Thorgwain can bring up the rear, Loki can travel where he wants to, where you want to be Xen? Dani? Xune? Larn?"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:42, Sun 19 Feb 2023.

"I would really rather be out in the front." Daniella says meekly.  "I am quick, quiet, and can scout out the way ahead.  Report back if I see some problems."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:53, Sat 13 May 2023.

Keen to offer his services and occupy a worthwhile position in the company Larn answers Valeros “I’m a good rider” he says “I’ll scout ahead” he offers.

"The forest is pretty impassable to a horse, we'll need to lose extra weight so let's make a trip and lighten our coin at the bank. Dani and Larn can go together if you want, just don't go too far ahead, we'd hate to come upon your grisly remains after something eats you."

"Xen and Xune, you want to travel by me in the front? I'd enjoy your company, two lovely ladies, with deadly blades. This might take some time, the forest is thick until we run upon a game trail going the way we want to go."

Valeros will deposit 200gp in the bank.

Elmona, who had been standing off to the side, asks Valeros, "Where would you like me to be? I'm equally competent with bow or sword."

"Oh I'm so sorry, I missed one!" Valeros says with chagrin.  "Where do you WANT to be dear? Near the front, or near the back? You can get off a round or two of arrows and then move in with your sword. I just hope this adventure is easier than our last foray, . . somehow, I think it will be much worse! I just pray we all come back alive!"

This message was last edited by the GM at 22:40, Sun 19 Feb 2023.

"I'll stay near the back. I can fire on anyone who is in front of us, and use my sword on anyone who comes behind us," Elmona says after a moment of thought.

"Aye, Oi will be near tha front." Thorgwain says.  "Oi'll take on a frontal assault wi me sword."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 13:54, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I have bought all I think I will need." Myshra says, having spent the morning perusing the lower market as well as the high market.  She also visited the alchemist's shop and the Merchant's Guild Trade Bank.

"I have a gallon of water in four skins.  I know the forest will be rough terrain and hot work.  Water may become a problem.  Also, got ten days of rations.  I'll be loaded down a little, but will manage."

"I suppose I will be somewhere in the middle where I can be of use."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:54, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune checks her gear again as she listens to the others talk. She too had wandered the stalls of vendors and purchased items, most notably water and rations.  Her ears pick up again on the conversation; a plan of attack.  No, having the magic user on the front line would be a mistake Val, she thinks to herself. meddyliwch gyda'ch pen arall.  At a pause in the conversation she speaks up.

"Val, I think Xenaryn should be at least in the second line of attack, if not the third.  Scouts out front.  First line is close weapons, followed by ranged weapons, then ranged magic.  This is how it should be. I will be in second line with bow.  Also, the elves have darkvision.  Something to keep in mind."

---

[OOC]
Elven translation, "Think with your other head"
:o)
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:54, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak purchases two healing potions, two weeks iron rations, and five flasks of oil, along with three torches.  And flint and steel to light them with.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:55, Sat 13 May 2023.

"The mages should have someone behind them to protect them from anything coming from the rear," Elmona says.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:55, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Agreed," Xen replies to Elmona. "I'll stay in the middle."

She considers her new found friends and the hefty sum of gold that they'd earned. Even giving a sizable sum to Alaion for potions, she still has too much to carry. Earlier that morning, she had hidden two sacks of gold under a loose board in her bedroom at her parents' house. Her crossbow, somewhat more bulky, didn't fit under the floor, so she left it next to her bed. She hopes the remaining coins will be enough to cover her until their return.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:55, Sat 13 May 2023.

The well dressed Seer organizes some of his belongings in his pack and large sack. He listens to the party discussing the marching order and makes a suggestion for himself.

"I'd rather be close to the front perhaps behind Thorgwain since my spell is a cone starting from myself and spreading outwards. I think I can get over his head but I'll need to be closer to my opponents than other casters. I'll have to choose my casting opportunities since I only have enough components for ten attack spells. I can use my sling otherwise or my dagger."

"Also, I can speed up our journey for the beginning by summoning a mount that can carry some of our stuff.  It will last almost half a candle (3 hours) before departing and having to be renewed.  It will have to be near me though.  I could afford one waterskin and seven days of food."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Sat 13 May 2023.

Reminded by the others that they would need provisions Larn buys ten days worth of iron rations.
This message was last updated by the player at 13:56, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Good, good, you're all thinking even when I don't. Alaion and Loki can be in the back with Elmona to protect our rear and our wizards."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:57, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak offers to occupy whichever rank is most convenient for the party.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:57, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune imagines the line up in her head, considers a moment then says, "Duiv, you and I should trade places. You will march next to Finn. Then, the clerics are protected front and back."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:57, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I think we might be better for it if we hire a guide to where we are going. Anyone know of anyone who has explored into the mountains beyond the forest? We can ask in the lumber consortium perhaps, but I don't know anyone off hand. I've never been more than a mile into the forest, I don't know any trails or such. Lets ask there and see if we can find someone, or does someone else have a better idea of where we could hire such a person."

This message was last updated by the GM at 13:57, Sat 13 May 2023.

I do. A friend of my mother." Myshra says. " He has been to the monastery. I should have thought of him earlier. I'm sure he will go back. If only to find out what happened to his companions."

Myshra seems lost in thought.

"Durwe is an elf. He is part of the original Falcon Six, but he and his mate, Tynia left mysteriously when they returned from there. I do not know what has happened, or where they went, but Durwe returned a few months ago without Tynia."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 13:58, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Thank you Myshra, we'll see this Durwe first then, and if he doesn't work out, we'll go to the cut-yards, I have friends there. Lead the way lass, you know him. It is good to have the right people to do the job, we seem to have the right people here. Then off to the volcano to get rid of unmentionables forever."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:58, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak nods and takes his place next to Finn.  “Let’s just make sure that whoever we hire to guide us isn’t working for the enemy.  That would be unfortunate.”
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:58, Sat 13 May 2023.

"That would be MOST unfortunate, I don't think we have to worry about Myshra's friend, but you can't be too careful. Lead the way lass." Valeros follows Myshra as they look for her friend, Durwe.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:59, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Well," Myshra says. "The last I heard, Durwe was helping Laurel Barker. She runs the Root n Remedies apothecary shop down mid-town lane. He may still be there. We will go look."

After readying her gear and settling the backpack on her back, which she is not used to, she exits the Sitting Duck tavern. It is a clear sky day outside and breezy. The wind whips her hair as a strong gust hits her.

She turns to the others, Alright, follow me."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:47, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1040 hrs high sun

Thirty minutes pass standing and talking at the stable.  It is decided the animals of burden and horses would be stabled until their return under the condition that if there is no return after ninety days the animals are seized as collateral payment.

Myshra leads the companions to mid-town lane and the little shop called Roots n Remedies.The smell of burnt earth and spicy incense chokes the air of the cramped, mud-tracked shop. Bunches of dried herbs hang from the ceiling, along with dangling pots, presses, alchemical apparatuses, and glassware of more arcane purposes. Pouches of rare plants, jars of colored glass, and all manner of dried, preserved, and jellied animal parts fill high shelves and tables doing double duty as displays and workspaces. In the shop’s rear, the rail-thin woman with hair pulled back tightly busies herself between an over packed rack of herbs, a table covered in stray powders and measuring equipment.

At the sound of people entering her shop, she stands erect and looks them over.

"I'm Laurel Barker, how can I help you? Is someone ailing?"

The woman pushes spectacles up the bridge of her nose, looking for someone sick or infirm.

"Oh, Myshra! Hello."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:47, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Hi Laurel. No, no one is ailing." Myshra replies with smiles. She hugs the thirty-something year old woman tightly for a moment.

"We, ummm, are on a very important mission and require a guide. Is Durwe around?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:46, Sat 13 May 2023.

Laurel returns the hug. "Knowing you it is trouble."

Laurel looks around at the assembled group. " Quite a troupe. Where is this mission? Are you sure you are ready for it? You were just about killed last week. I worry for you as much as your mother."

Not waiting for answers, she smiles at all the others. One she recognizes as the son of Herold of the merchant's guild. And another, she is certain worked in the chandler's shop.

"He is. Go on out back. He's building new risers for my herb garden. Mind your footing."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:46, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1040 hrs high sun

Out back of the shop, working in the shadows of the surrounding buildings is a elf of fair complexion and hair. He is sweating quite heavily from sawing a thick plank of wood. Shirtless, his toned and tight muscles stand out as he pushes and pulls against the grain of wood. He is wearing soft leather shoes and brown trousers held up by a belt. There are several fughting scars lining his arms and torso.

Finally, after several moments, his fight with the plank comes to a sawing halt and he stands up. His muscles tense like a spring ready to be loosed. He is tall for an elf and the eyes glaring back at the companions mirror that of a stormy overcast day.  His features soften though as he recognizes Myshra.

His eyes reflect a keen intellect and inquisitive eyes regard the party. He knows none of them. Those eyes linger on the lavender skinned, red eyed dark elf with those gathered, but he detects no hostility.

"Myshra, what brings you here with these adventurers?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:45, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Mother cast a communion with Iomedae concerning an evil tome these adventurers discovered. To destroy it, we must subject it to Droskar's furnace in the Foundry of Souls."
This message was last updated by the player at 13:44, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe wipes a brow of sweat and spits sawdust to the ground in thought. "I know where that is." The elf says lowly. "It is not a place to take lightly. That monastery--"

Durwe shakes his head. "You know they did not return from that place. Your mother knows they did not return. What makes you think your trip will be any the better? And why are you here? You have questions?"

This message was last edited by the player at 13:44, Sat 13 May 2023.

“We’re here to do the right thing.” Larn says with pride on his face. The youth has been caught up in this quest not of his choice. His conviction that it was right thing to do was strong however. “Where is this monastery?” he asked the elf Durwe.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:21, Tue 21 Feb 2023.

Valeros stands beside Myshra and listens closely to the conversation. He thinks about answering, but decids to let Myshra do the talking as the two of them were friends. He will speak if he is spoken to and will introduce everyone if asked, otherwise, she is doing fine.

The Falcon Six disappearing at the monastery makes him worry enough as it is. This is not going to be easy, he thinks. We need to return to help out or Vade will take over and the town will pay dearly for it. Vade is pure evil and can't be discounted or overlooked. VERY powerful. Poor Xen is terrified of him so he is dangerous.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:43, Sat 13 May 2023.

Myshra places a hand on Durwe's shoulder.  His muscles in his arm and pectorals twitch at the touch.  "I know they did not.  And, perhaps when we go there, we can at worst find out what happened to them, or at best, rescue them."

"We must destroy this tome Durwe. It has the capacity to corrupt those around it." Myshra says, pulling her hand away. "A necromancer nearly sacrificed me in some rite associated with it.  We can speak more on that later.  We need you."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:43, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe regards Larn as he listens to Myshra's plea for help. Such a young human, full of ambition and curiosity no doubt.  But sadness as well, he notes. She makes a compelling argument, he thinks as she finishes.  He turns and takes his linen shirt from the lumber stacked next to him and puts it on.  He takes his time, lacing the leather in the front neckline until comfortable.  He sighs and returns his stormy-eyed gaze to Myshra.

"I suppose you're mother would never forgive me if I let you go without me." he says finally. "Where can I find you in a couple of hours?  It will take me that long to prepare.  I have to... recover my gear."

He regards everyone, "I am Durwe Ondolme of the Sylvan Glenholme, now citizen of Flacon's Hollow and friend to Lady Cirthana."   
This message was last edited by the player at 13:43, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune steps forward. She would introduce herself in proper elven fashion. She has heard the name of the house Ondolmen spoken among the elves she has met in other places.

"I am Xune Vyvdryx," she says, placing a fist across her heart and bowing slightly. "Third daughter to the house Vyvdryx of what humans call Deepholme. "Golau trwy ddeilen a gwythïen."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:42, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe smiles at the unexpected greeting. There is more to this dark elf than meets the eye." Light through leaf and vein daughter of house Vyvdryx. It is indeed strange to find one of your kind in the Light.  Or the light of day, for that matter."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:42, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune nods, "My kind are not misunderstood by the top worlders. However, there are a few of us, that although considered abnormal and mentally unstable by our own kind find that there is much more to reality than the underworld. Denizens of Deepholme have forgotten their history. Knowledge that 200 generations ago we were all of one elfkind is purged from society's memory. So, learning the truth, as we truthseekers do, I decided to leave Deepholme.  That was 115 cycles of the core--er, years ago."

Xune goes quiet, realizing she is rambling. She appears flustered.

"I'm sorry. It is nice to meet you Durwe."

This message was last updated by the GM at 13:42, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I am Valeros Sothgard, leader of this group at the moment. We would be most pleased with your help, thank you very much."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:41, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Well, let me introduce the rest of us." Myshra offers, relieving Xune of her discomfort. She goes around the group gathered, introducing each in turn.

Finally she says,"I guess we can meet you down the street at Jak-a-napes tavern. Its almost time for a mid day meal anyway."

She gives Valeros a look for approval.
This message was last updated by the player at 13:41, Sat 13 May 2023.

Valeros nods agreement with Myshra. He was unsure of himself when it came to the women in the party, he was pulled in all directions. He looked them all up and down with a bit of confusion. He felt like a big brother, and like a possible lover. He didn't know what to do, how does he choose what he is?
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:41, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Very well." Durwe says, seeing Valeros' nod. "I will meet you there  a stripe past the mid-day hour.

He then reenters the shop and goes upstairs.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:41, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak heartily agrees to the suggestion of a mid-day meal.  In fact, his stomach has been growling at him like a pit of fiends for the past half hour.

He looks from one female party member to another with nothing other than brotherly intentions.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:40, Sat 13 May 2023.

Thorgwain greets the elf with a strong clasp of arm to hand.  It will be good to have someone who has been there before guide them to the location.

"Well met friend." The dwarf huffs before stepping back.

He watches as the elf enters the rear of the shop. "Aye, let's make haste to tha tavern. Me belly believes its never been fed."

This message was last updated by the GM at 13:40, Sat 13 May 2023.

Val leads the way to the Jak-a-napes. Once there, he led the others to a big table before it was taken by others and signaled for the serving girl to come and serve them.

"Food, cups and a few pitchers of ale for us please, how much?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 13:39, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen follows Val and the others to the Jack-a-napes. Talk of the Falcon Six and their mysterious fate worries her. She attempts to be brave in front of the others, but fidgeting hands betray those worries. Durwe's confidence helps somewhat, but not enough that she lends her voice to the current conversation. Instead, she listens silently, wondering if she made a mistake joining this party of brave souls.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:39, Sat 13 May 2023.

While seated at table, Duivelssmak leans over the Xen and asks if he can get her anything.  He tells her the cheese is quite good.

Obviously, he wishes to calm her nerves…
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:23, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1540 hrs high sun

As promised, Durwe meets the companions at the appointed hour at the tavern known as Jak-a-Napes, where you can find the best-tasting flap jacks in the barony. Durwe is outfitted in a long leather blue tunic with a black leather belt.  Beneath the garment can be seen gleaming chain mail and a chain coif covers his head. Blue Leggins are stuffed into riding boots.  A quiver and bow are slung from the shoulder, and he sports a backpack that looks to be stuffed with useful items.  The item that draws the eyes is the sheathed sword at his hip.  Its hilt is long, as most elven blades are, but the pommel is decorated with a white stone with a golden inlay which the clerics recognize as the holy symbol of Pelor.

Durwe greets the companions and after a short discussion on what exactly was desired of him and the meals were paid, he leads them out of the town north and east along the cut yard roads which are nothing more than heavily trodden ruts through what once was wooded wilderness.  Now the landscape is littered with heavy underbrush that is overtaking the many stumps that can still be seen. Short seedling trees fill the area but are only three to eight feet high.

A few hours into the walk, the companions who are new to adventuring are breathing heavily and plodding along with effort. A distance normally traveled in an hour has taken three, as most of the companions are burdened with heavy loads. The winds of the day are a welcome respite from the heat. Cloaks flutter to the side as they walk.  Some realize their mistake in not buying water and carrying only wine that does not quench thirst but makes one more thirsty.

They pass two tracts that tear off northward, but Durwe continues onward to the east. That tract eventually turns more northward in a bend ahead. Durwe halts, eyeing three individuals ahead in the path.  Two are wielding swords while the other looks on. To either side of the logging tract is heavy underbrush, leafy dark wood seedlings, and stumps.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:23, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Looks like highwaymen with a not so subtle trap, eh?" he says to Durwe and the others.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:22, Sat 13 May 2023.

Elmona readies her bow, scanning the surrounding terrain, and says in a low voice, "It is not what is seen that is the danger, but that which is hidden. Beware the woods to the sides."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:21, Sat 13 May 2023.

"You worked for the cutyards, is it trouble or normal cutyard protection?" Durwe replies to Valeros.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:21, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Aye lass. Mebbe arrows'n bolts ah ready trained on us if'n it be banditry." Thirgwain replies to Elmona's words of caution. He scans the underbrush carefully for movement.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:21, Sat 13 May 2023.

The yon individuals do not come forward. They continue to watch the party expectantly.

---

Range to targets is a hundred yards

This message was last updated by the GM at 13:20, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Why do you block the way? What do you want?" Valeros yells to the road block.

"We never did that in the forest when I worked in the cutyards Master Durwe. We had axes, and there were a lot of us. It may have changed though, we'll see what this is in a moment. It could be our enemy is ahead of us."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:20, Sat 13 May 2023.

Myshra shudders as they halt their progress along the path. She looks on with piqued interest, yet is wary enough to slowly remove her sling from her belt and open the leather pouch containing her stones.  She can feel the weight of the chest in her pack containing the tome.  It weighs on her both physically, and mentally.  Were these men sent to retrieve it?
This message was last edited by the player at 13:20, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak sighs, regretting the possible need for violence.  But he says quietly, “If we need to fight, give me a chance to cast a blessing upon us first.  It might not work if we have already come to blows.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:19, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen tenses, scanning the scene ahead of her. With no ranged weapons of her own, she has little to offer should the confrontation turn to violence. She watches the underbrush for signs of more possible foes. If worse comes to worse I can use magic, she supposes. But I hope it doesn't come to that.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:19, Sat 13 May 2023.

The suspense draws out for several moments before there is a reply. The unarmed figure leans toward one of the others and speaks in low, inaudible tones. Finally, the larger of the two armed figures shouts back with a deep raspy voice. "We are not blocking your way. We are merely cautious as there are many of you and few of us."

Sensing no hostile intentions, the two men sheath their swords and then all three begin approaching slowly.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 13:19, Sat 13 May 2023.

Elmona lowers her bow so the arrow is pointing towards the ground, but does not put the arrow back in the quiver, nor does she unstring her bow.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:18, Sat 13 May 2023.

Alaion watches on as words are exchanged with the men and they call out and are coming forward.

He drops his right hand down to get ahold of Loki's harness.

"Easy boy.  Guard."

His pack is heavy, weighted down with his gear and his offhand tightens its grip on his horned shield.

Watching in anticipation is all he can do as he scans behind them to see if any movement is noticeable in the event they are walking into an ambush.

[Private to GM: Have a private message to you about gear.  Wanted to go over a few questions for you and make sure I bought the spell components and everything others wanted before we left town.]
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:18, Sat 13 May 2023.

Valeros raises his empty hand and begins advancing slowly towards them, leading the party past the other group. "Peace! We are simply passing through!"
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:17, Sat 13 May 2023.

When the strangers sheathed their swords Larn does likewise. The youth smiles earnestly. As a son of the hills Larn knew what it was like for strangers to pass through his own lands “we bring our own food and will not take from your lands without permission” he promises the company of three men.
This message was last updated by the player at 13:17, Sat 13 May 2023.

Duivelssmak smiles warmly, if a bit primly.  "Greetings, fellow travelers.  May the Saint watch over you."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:16, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1740 hrs high sun

The three men step to the side of the road as the group of twelve passes. One raises his hand. "Light upon you all."

The path continues around the bend and tracks northward. The peaks of the Droskar mountains rise in the distance beyond the Darkmoon vale forest. The first snows in the high passes have not fallen yet. The wind continues its assault across the region with gusts strong enough to bend the seedlings along the path.

The sun moves into the low sun transition as the companions plod onward. With just over two hours of daylight left, the cut-yard camp appears ahead. The Lumber Consortium Camp cuts an ugly scar of stumps into a dense stand of proud Darkwood trees. Five sturdy-looking log buildings— seemingly a bunkhouse, meal hall, office, barn, and smithy— stand with numerous wide carts and sleds amid the sawdust-covered clearing. Owned and operated by the local Lumber Consortium, the camp appears as callous and unrelenting as the men who work it.

The first persons you meet are a group of burly cut yard workers sorting and culling logs in a field that the wagon rut road follows alongside. They glance as you approach along the road, but otherwise ignore you.

Another group farther away is more animated and jilting laughter can be heard.

Ahead, on the road appears two thuggish-looking fellows in leather armor, shields, and brandishing weapons. Their sour dispositions seem permanently etched in their features.  One man whistles, alerting other consortia protective security personnel of your presence. Workers grab axes and adzes while looking on.  Dogs at one of the buildings begin barking.  Loki begins barking back and pulling against his harness held by Alaion.

"What brings this troupe out to the cut yards?" a brute of a man asks, glaring down at the rottweiler. He pulls his shield around to the front. A hand rests on his sword. "You looking for the foreman?"

[Private to Valeros: Your character was part of the security at the cut yards, though not this particular one. Val has not met the foreman.  Valeros knows Milon Roddham, who hired him and is the no. 2 man in the yards. He also knows some sell swords at other camps. ]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:16, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Greetings and well met! Yes, I'd like a minute of his time when he is available if I may. I am Valeros Sothgard, formerly of the cut yards too, but not now. These are my companions."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:15, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1740 hrs low sun

"Aye, building on tha left. Bear skin door." The brute offers, standing aside. "Jarlben be inside."

The yard cutters and barkers get back to work as the party moves forward. The companions make their way further into the camp, passing several shacks before coming to one with a bear's hide stretched across its wooden door.  Two large mastiff canines are tethered to either side of the dior. Their barking is incessant until a reedy voice from within the cabin yells obscenities. The door pulls open with a heavy creak. The inside is just a one room living space, barely twenty by thirty feet wide. A rectangle table occupies the middle space of the log cabin with a lit lantern sitting atop it. A bone handled hunting knife holds a stack of parchments in place. A barker's knife rests near a stoppered inkwell and quillion stand. The walls of the small office is littered with trophy heads of various wild animals and one large fish.

A sinewy man with tattered long black hair gapes up at those who enter from the other side of the table, stopping his pouring of an intensely aromatic, steaming hot beverage from a tin pot.

"So ye be why Riff n Raff are mak'n such noise." The man grumbles aloud. "Who ye be? What d'ya want?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:14, Sat 13 May 2023.

Seeing the forest stripped of is trees upsets Larn. He grieves the loss of the wood spirits and animals. He somberly follows Valeros and the others into the camp, then into the foreman’s hut. He lingers a moment as he touches the bear skin and feels the spirit of the once strong animal of the forest. He ignores the barking of the dogs and feels pity for the tethered and enslaved beasts.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:14, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I am Valeros Sothgard, formerly of the cut yards, but not now. These are my companions. We are on a mission for the church and would like to spend the night here if we may? We'll be moving on in the morning." He holds out his hand in greeting as he takes in his surroundings. The smell of the fresh cut wood filling his nostrils brings back memories.

Seeing the look on Larn's face, he tells him, "They plant new trees Larn. Otherwise, in a few years they'd work themselves out of a job.  They'll be back here in a few decades and start over."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:13, Sat 13 May 2023.

"They lose the wisdom of the forest when they cut down the ancient trees and replace them with youths," Elmona says in agreement with Larn.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:13, Sat 13 May 2023.

“Let’s not worry about that now.  There are far more pressing matters at hand.” Duivelssmak says. He turns his attention to their potential host and smiles ingratiatingly.  “Pleased to make your acquaintance.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:13, Sat 13 May 2023.

It is good to hear voices that agree with how Larn is feeling. He nods to the elf Elmona as she finishes. Duivelssmak’s words are wise but not what Larn needs. Also Larn does not feel like this is a place he wants to stay overnight. He does not interrupt Valeros but hopes that the foreman will refuse the request.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:12, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune has remained quiet during the trek to the cut yard.  When confronted, she pulls her cowl forward over her head, hiding her heritage features as much as she can.  A the foreman's office, she remains outside, watching the security detail from the shadows of her hood.  She approaches the quieted dogs and attempts to scratch them behind the ears while cooing at them affectionately. Silently though, she is counting the armed personnel around the camp.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 13:12, Sat 13 May 2023.

Thorgwain stays outside the foreman's office, letting the one leading this group to speak for them.  He stands near Xune, watching the yard as the shadows get longer with the sun dipping lower on the horizon.  He sucks the last of the water from his waterskin.  A quart gone from a nearly six hour march through pretty open terrain.  Tomorrow, he thinks, will be a lesson to us all. Especially if the terrain is as rough as Durwe let on.

Taking a cue from Xune, Thorgwain approaches the other dog and attempts to scratch it's ears.  "C'mon boy. Oi don bite." He laughs at his own humor.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:11, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Well Valeros, formerly of tha cut yards, ye should know then tha this is a no a charity operation, church or no church.  We don just board people. Especially if they are no work'n. Wha kind of security would I be offer'n me cutters if'n I let jes any tommyknocker stay tha night eh?"  Jarlben asks rhetorically and unapologetically. He nods to Duivelssmak then squints his eyes at the elf standing near Valeros.  "I know ye elf?  I seen ye before, I'm sure."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:11, Sat 13 May 2023.

Myshra watches as Xune and Thorgwain attend to the poor tethered dogs.  There were mastiffs and large, but otherwise friendly.  She hated to think if they were being mistreated, but there is not any evidence of that.  The dogs are not undernourished in any way and they have pots of clear water to drink and a large bone or two to gnaw on.  She turns her attention to the weather next, pulling her cloak tighter around her as the temperature lowers with the lowering of the sun on the horizon.  The breeze certainly did not help to keep her warm.  Looking at the sky, she has misgivings.  "It is going to rain tonight, or tomorrow." She says to no one in particular.  "I can feel it."  She has often been right about the weather, in short order anyway.

---

16:54, Today: Myshra, rolled 2 using 1d20.  Weather sense (WIS)
This message was last updated by the player at 13:11, Sat 13 May 2023.

Larn gives a sigh of relief that they won’t be staying overnight in his spirit forsaken place. Their audience not yet over Larn remains beside his companions and wonders what may happen next.
This message was last updated by the player at 13:10, Sat 13 May 2023.

Valeros does not immediately answer, but turns to Durwe when the Foreman recognizes him.
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:10, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe takes a step forward. He remembers the foreman as he is now. A reprehensible and temperamental fellow. They had to bribe the man to find Milon Roddham then.

"Yes, foreman," Durwe replies. "You may recall near a year ago, the company I was with then sought your man Milon Roddham at the time. We were successful on that mission and did find the reagents for a cure to the taint that was scouring the town. I pray you did not lose too many men during that blight on us all. Many were not lucky enough to survive it."

Durwe pauses, letting the man remember and let the knowledge of his last company's accomplishment perhaps sway his favor. He gives Valeros a thoughtful look before turning back to the foreman.

"We only seek shelter for the night." Durwe continues. "We shall, of course, compensate you for your generosity, if you allow."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:10, Sat 13 May 2023.

" Aye, I remember ye now bubber. In what form is this compensation? Is reason 'n greed walking hand 'n hand today?" The foreman asks without hesitating. It is clear his memory of the encounter with Durwe is not pleasant. But, perhaps the success of the mission sways him.

[Private to Valeros: make a persuasion roll (CHA)]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:09, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe looks to Valeros expectantly in reply to the foreman's question. He is not prepared to make any sort of offer in gold for the group, as he is not in charge and presumes Valeros is.

Most places, a private room for a night is about five silver. What would the foreman accept, Durwe wonders. A gold per? That's twelve gold.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:09, Sat 13 May 2023.

"There are 12 of us, we'll give you 12 gold for one last secure night's sleep. Agreed?" Valeros negotiates with him.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:09, Sat 13 May 2023.

Foreman Jarlben grins."Ye can bunk 'n the smithy tonight." He says, crossing his arms in front of himself.  "Smith's 'n town couple 'o days. Lots 'o room for the bunch 'o ye. If'n ye got the jink (coin)."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:08, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xen waits outside, watching as Thorgwain and Xune attempt to befriend the cutyard's dogs. She smiles to herself, not sure if they will succeed in making a friend or simply lose a finger.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:07, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1800 hrs, clear skies and breezy

Thorgwain and Xune find the dogs approachable. They are wary at first, but after an initial sniff and a scratch behind the ears, their tails wag in friendly excitement.

The settled amount is paid from Valeros' money pouch to the foreman and the companions are led by a "berk" to the blacksmith's building. It is dark and the forge fires are cold. The inside of the wood and thatch structure is dirty with soot covering anything not used in the last few days. A pungent smell of oil and steel permeates the building. There are two exits.  One is a set of barred double doors on the back wall, the other a normal sized door if not a little wider. It is spacious inside  with enough room for bedrolls, assuming one had the forethought to purchase one. Otherwise, a cold and dirty ground floor awaits.

---

(OCC)
Setting watch? How many per watch? How many watches? When rising?
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:07, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune lights a candle and places it on a thick plank table containing various implements for use in forging or manipulating metal. A large anvil rests on a four foot diameter dark wood stump next to the table and behind it is the forge fire pit with bellows on the backside. The walls are littered with tack and harness pieces, tools, and other unidentifiable implements.

"At least it is out of the wind." She says in a positive spin on the building. She sets her pack atop the table and unstraps her bedroll. Her pack would serve as a rough pillow. "And wind if Myshra is correct in sensing a coming rainy period."

She drinks the last few drops of water from her skin.

"There should surely be a well here somewhere, yes?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:06, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I'm sure there is a bucket of water, but I wouldn't bet on it being clean, look around." He finds a spot to lay his bedroll and blanket, "Should we build a fire for heat? It might be scarce further on the trail."
This message was last updated by the GM at 13:06, Sat 13 May 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 1810 hrs, clear skies and breezy

The sun has dipped below the horizon and the fading light of the day turns high cirrus clouds shades of orange and purple as the night sky approaches from the east. Searching quickly, a small well is located between the office and the smithy. Anyone needeing to top off their skin can do so. Those with wine skins are advised to dump the wine and fill with water to avoid quick dehydration. Durwe draws a map in the soot on the table with his finger. They would follow the cutter's path to get to the lake. Once there, they will have to skirt the lake by going east along the shore. Once on the other side, they will enter the forest and that is when things get rough, especially for those nit used to it. Water will be important.

These things are explained in a plain, no nonsense, matter of the fact way by someone who has lived the experience.

There are two stacks of firewood beside the smithy. One is of seasoned wood and the other stack is of unseasoned wood for hotter embers.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:05, Sat 13 May 2023.

"Reason and greed walked hand in hand," Duivelssmak mutters as he draws water from the well and uses it to top off his skin.  "Spreading well-ordered meanness throughout the land."

When he finishes, he looks around for someone in need of assistance, checking first in the direction of the firewood.
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:30, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

Valeros tops off his skin too, there would be few sources after the lake, he hoped they would be okay.
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:30, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

Thorgwain begins making a fire in the forge pit. He stacks several pieces of smaller kindling and dry logs in place. Then with a helpful cantrip from Xune, the fire is going strong within minutes. Thorgwain throws a couple unseasoned logs on and some more unseasoned logs to get a nice bed of embers started.

Grabbing his water skin, he heeds the advice of the elf and discards the wine in favor of the water. He sighs as the last of the wine dribbles from the skin's mouth. How long before he tastes wine again, he wonders with a disheartened sigh. He tops off with water before heading back inside to his bedroll and pack.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:30, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

Finnias looks at the blacksmith shop in disgust. Didn't anyone ever clean their shops? At this point he regretted not learning the cantrip spell but his teacher taught him that magic was not the solution to everything.

Finn made several trips to the well to fetch water and to wash the area of the Smithy that he be sleeping in. He gets out his loaf of bread to eat dinner and sets up his bedroll for the evening.

"I'll take First Watch. He says to the group. Not sure I trust this group outside nor do I trust this Foreman not to sell out our position for profit. I think I will watch from outside the building.  Place is awfully flammable for a smithy."
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:30, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

"I'll take second watch or third, so the casters can get their rest." Val told the others, "We might want to watch in pairs, I think we have enough folks."
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:30, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

"Twelve hours 'o darkness including dusk till dawn" Thorgwain says, settling back on his bedroll. "First watch's up. Four watches three hours apiece.  Oi be tak'n tha second watch."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:20, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

"I will join you on second watch Thorgwain." Xune says, spreading out her bedroll as well.  She places her pack at the head of the roll and lies upon it to stare at the large opening in the center of the high roof.  Smoke was lifting out the hole and blowing south. She turns over and shuts out the world to try and get what little sleep she can. Sleeping on a hard floor is normally of no consequence, but the reminder of the last hard floor she slept on is. "Bydd y necrom hwnnw'n talu'n ddrud am hynny", She mutters under her breath. "And pay dearly."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:20, Sat 04 Mar 2023.

"Wake me for third watch." Durwe says, lighting a twelve hour clock candle and placing it on the table.  He then settles into a bedroll with his head on his pack as a pillow.

"Okay Durwe, that puts you with me, Larn can take 4th watch with a caster if they want, they'll have their rest."

"Fourth watch is fine with me," Elmona states emotionlessly.

"I will take fourth watch as well." Larn says when Elmona finishes her proclamation.

Duivelssmak’s brow furrows.  “Might I inquire as to which watch I’m being assigned to?”
This message was last updated by the GM at 17:22, Sun 05 Mar 2023.

"It looks like you might get to sleep Duiv, all of the watches have two, otherwise, pick first or last and help. Up to you." Valeros tells him.
This message was last updated by the GM at 17:22, Sun 05 Mar 2023.

Myshra looks over at the silent Alaion and frowns. What has come over him, she wonders acidly. He is not volunteering for watch. She places a hand on Duivelssmak's shoulder.  "Duiv and I will help Finn on first shift." She says, grinning at the young cleric.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 17:22, Sun 05 Mar 2023.

After a final night at home with her parents, Xen agrees to stay with the party from here on out. She immediately questions that decision after seeing the accommodations, but convinces herself it is for the best. After all, she will be traveling with them for the foreseeable future. Like the others, shes tops off her waterskins, then seeing that they have arranged for watch, she settles in with both her spellbook and various notes gathered at her home that she had taken during her studies with Vade. It bothers her that her mentor is apparently a scumbag, but he is nonetheless a brilliant man, and whatever notes he provided her, be it on the affect of the sun and stars on the world around her or the weaving of arcane energies to lift someone off the ground, will no doubt be of use in the future.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:04, Mon 06 Mar 2023.

Duivelssmak nods agreeably at Myshra and readies himself for the first watch.  Staying up late is an old habit with him, anyway.

The forge warms as Thorgwain lights the fires and adds wood for fuel. Larns curls up in his cloak and settles down to sleep. In the morning he plans to keep watch and prepare a breakfast for his companions.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:19, Tue 07 Mar 2023.

Finnigan looks through his equipment and realizes that some of it is missing.  He could have sworn he still had those caltrops and a bell.  He has to make a decision - use his pot as a makeshift noise device with a hammer and some cord or fill the pot with water in case of fire.

Maybe he could do both.  A smithy must have buckets, right?  A fire would be disasyerous.  He made sure there was plenty of water just in case.

"If someone wants to sleep in the bedroll while I'm on watch I don't have a problem with that.  Um… if anyone needs to share it for the night, we can talk, if you promise to keep your hands to yourself." He stammers out, looking outside the door.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:17, Tue 07 Mar 2023.

Elmona just relaxes for the evening mostly lost in her own thoughts. In reality she is mentally going through the incantations, movements, and other requirements for the spells she knows and the ones she has been taught but not mastered yet. Each one she practices in her mind until she is comfortable with what she can do so far.

She is not adverse to talking with the others, but being a more shy, introspective type she is not one to initiate conversation. When everyone is turning in for the night, she takes her bedroll and lays it out with the others near the forge, as it is the only source of warmth.

When woken for her watch, she will keep an eye on the surrounding darkness with bow strung, but not drawn. If she notices anything strange, she'll let Larn know so he can be ready to wake the others while she'll watch it to see if it has hostile intent.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:17, Tue 07 Mar 2023.

28th of Muin, Frigedaeg 2100 hrs, cloudy overcast

The first shift of watch is over without incident. Over the course of the watch, Finn has filled five buckets with water and set them around the inside of the building.  Myshra and Duivel settle in for the night while Finn wakes Thorgwain and Xune for their shift, then settles in himself.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:05, Sat 13 May 2023.

Xune rears up with a kris dagger in hand at the touch on her shoulder. She blinks, then nods acknowledgement to Finn."Diolch" She says, slipping from the bedroll. It is not the first time she has slept in her armor.

After sipping water from her mother's decanter, she sheathes her daggers and short sword. She slips from the smithy into the cool night air and notes there are no stars or moon visible. All is blackness, or as black as an elf with dark vision can get. Three garda loiter at the office door and talk in low tones with occasional laughter. They are fifty yards away. To the south she can make out the edges of stacks of logs in orderly rows. On the backside of the smithy, the wood line is just within her vision. She makes a slow and deliberate pace, watching the shadows for movement and listening to the night sounds for any unusual thing.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:18, Tue 07 Mar 2023.

29th of Muin, Saternesdaeg 0010 hrs, cloudy and raining

The second watch passes without incident. A  light rain begins to fall, increasing slightly in intensity as time passes. Xune and Thorgwain reenter the smithy in wet cloaks.  They hang the cloaks to dry on the wall pegs near the entrance, then wake the next watch; Valeros and Durwe.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe wakes with a start. He throws the bedroll cover aside and rises slowly.  Yesterday's walk affected him more than he is willing to admit. It has been a long while since he has traveled extensively. He stretches his stiff legs and twists his back until joints pop.  Sleeping on a hard earth floor does not help. In minutes he is ready for whatever comes. He steps out into the night after donning his cloak to keep the rain out and securing his sword.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:38, Wed 08 Mar 2023.

Valeros rises and stretches as well. Valeros wasn't bothered too much by traveling on foot, he was used to it. He closed his bedroll after he got out, to keep it warm, pulled on his boots and cloak and raised his hood before stepping into the rain.

29th of Muin, Saternesdaeg 0210 hrs, cloudy and raining

The third watch progresses along with the watchers circling the smithy in a slow rhythmic pace. Nothing stirs.  The rain continues to fall lightly, soaking everything.  The idea is to keep moving so one does not get sleepy and fall asleep on the job and it keeps one alert.  The cacophony of tree frog noises from the tree line strains one’s nerve taut after a couple of hours. An occasional night owl is heard in the distance. The only other sound comes from some guards that loiter at the office building beneath a sconced torch.  They pay no heed to the watch of the smithy.  Valeros walks with no light, having discovered in the darkness that his pack does not contain a torch or a lantern. And so, he walks the perimeter in the dark. Durwe relies on the innate dark-vision he has as an elf to see farther into the perimeter.  He can see out to sixty feet as if it were light out, but only in shades of gray. Occasionally, he catches sight of some nocturnal rodent sneaking through the stacks of wood, or around stumps.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:51, Sat 13 May 2023.

  The rain had made for a mess in the lumber yard making it tough working the logs. The only good thing was that they did not have as many injures due to it. "Be a goods day werk when dhere be nae broken bones." He told the lumber master when he left. The lumber master just gave him a gruff look saying, "Don't ya be hexin us ya fool." He made a sign of warding between the two of them. Thardhrom just shook his head as he left.

  Thardhrom slowly made his way inside the bunk house there in the lumber yard. He could hear others making small talk as he kicked as much of the mud off his boots as he could, before entering. The last thing he wanted to hear was Old man Flander yelling for tracking it in. He was an old human, who had put much time in here at the yard and now lorded over the bunkhouse. Thardrom figured he earned the right and he always showed the Elder the respect he deserved. He gave him a nod and the old man nodded back, but there was a pleased look on his face, for a brief moment, then it was gone.

   A deep voice laughed from the one table and said, "Don't be sticking yer nose too far up the old man's arse it might not come out of that beard." The room laughed and Thardhrom laughed as well with it. Flander just shook his head. This was nothing new in here and he had become use to it. He looked at the man, saying, "Ya best be watchin 'ow ya talk ta me an da boss 'ere... er he be tossin ya out in da rain an ya be 'avin ta get pass me ta get in. Ya kennae best me Jimmy boy." The room once again laughed and everyone went back to the food and drink.

  Thardhrom looked at Flander saying, "'Ow be yer shoulder? Da rain playin 'ell wit it? Be gettin da rub fer ya?" The old man just shook his head. "Nah boy, but I thank ya for asking. Stew on the fire grab it while ya can. Bread an cheese be over in the box, an be ale like always, just keep in mind ya got work in the morning." Thardhrom smiled and nodded, for he remembered all too well the following morning after a heavy drink. "Be nae drinkin tanite, got me a feelin. Da rain danae set well wit me fer some reason." He touched the pendant inside his tunic and made his way over to the fire pot to get a bowl of stew, some bread and a tankard.

   Thardhrom sat there pondering the rain and this strange feeling. He shrugged it off, as just the chill from it and went back to eating. He looked the room over and down at his hands. He has a itch inside of him and had it for a time now. There was adventure out there and people who could use his help and guidance. He needed to see if adventure would call to him soon. He truly hoped it would he thought. He finished up cleaned his bowl, spoon, and tankard, then stood by the fire to help himself dry some. He then marched up the steps to his bunk. He wrung his clothing out to dry best he could, then treated the leather of his sling setting it to dry as well. He grabbed the small leather hand club he kept with him when he slept saying a prayer. "Be yer watchin eye keep us safe an lucky."  He crawled into the bed for a night of rest.
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:52, Fri 10 Mar 2023.

29th of Muin, Saternesdaeg 0220hrs, cloudy and raining

In the second hour of the third watch, Valeros is passing the southern side of the smithy when a noise, a sharp crack, draws his attention toward the stacks of wood logs that he knows are about sixty yards away and the road cuts through them.  Durwe should be on the north side of the building at this time. All of a sudden, a shadowy figure, black moving within blackness, can barely be seen walking up the road until it enters the ring of torchlight at the office building. Words are passed between guard and figure, then the door opened to allow the figure to enter.

After several minutes, the figure emerges from the building. It has words with the three guards, then walks back into the darkness heading west toward the worker's quarters.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:52, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe turns the corner into the south end of the smithy and is surprised to see Valeros standing there. He approaches the man cautiously.

"Psst!" He hissed to get Val's attention.  "What are you seeing?" Durwe scans the area ahead of Val, but sees nothing unusual.

 Thorgwain rolled over in his blankets and attempted to get comfortable again." Like sleeping on a bed o' nails, it is. "

Xen studies well into the night, distracted slightly by a pang of guilt from not offering to take a watch. She rationalizes to herself that her studies are more valuable to the group than taking a watch, but she still worries that the others may think her more a child than a colleague.

After several hours, she finally succumbs to sleep, her face dropping into her grimoire.

"Someone came into the camp and went into the office, then over there to that cabin, that was after I heard a loud noise, a cracking sound." he replied in whisper.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:21, Fri 10 Mar 2023.

29th of Muin, Saternesdaeg 0230hrs, cloudy and raining

As Durwe and Valeros look on, the door of the office building opens. A call from inside leads to two of the guards turning and entering, leaving one outside and the door shuts. That one guard stands at the ready, and is noticeably no longer relaxed like the previous hours. He stares across the forty yards at the smithy a moment. Valeros and Durwe can feel his eyes upon them, but it is too far away through rain to see any expression. Eventually, he turns away.

[Private to Thardhrom: A quiet commotion within the bunk house interupts Thardhrom's counting of wooden beams overhead. With his dark-vision, he makes out two men moving among the workers, selectively waking several others. A total of eight men quietly don clothing, then move downstairs.

---

(OOC) If you respond to this, your next post will simply say Prvate Message for others to see, followed by a private message to GM with your actions in response to this private message to you. Also, roll a perception check against WIS.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:53, Sat 13 May 2023.

"I do not like this." Durwe says, looking across the yard into the gloom. "Do strangers visit the cut yards in the wee hours before dawn Valeros? We had better be on our guard. There is still an hour or so to our shift."

Durwe pulls his cloak tighter and begins his walk again while Valeros looks on.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Fri 10 Mar 2023.

"To answer your question, No, too dangerous after dark."  he answered before continuing his walk. He kept an eye open for anything, especially from either cabin.

Private Message

[Private to Hand of Fate: Thardhrom clasps the sap tight in his hand, as he heard the commotion. He had been right about the feeling and still held it. He could not tell who the two were, but he knew the bunk location of the others, so he has a good ideal who went. He got his armor, shield and weapons out from under his bed, then quickly began donning them. He so, wanted to say something to those still here, but he just felt he did not have time. He adjusted the studded helm, and belt sliding his mace into it, then the sap.

Thardhrom took a deep breath to qualm the excitement he was feeling, as well as the bad feeling he had. He ran a hand down each of the beads in his braids, then spoke quietly to himself, "Ye had ta be openin yer mouth, bout adventure.. Well, bucko ye be steppin inta it now. 'Ope it be comin off ya, if'n it goes down tha wrong tunnel. He then mouthed a silent pray *Keep ye watchful eyes open an keep us safe. May luck be on me.* He made his way down the stairs, as quiet as a Dwarf in chain mail could be. Shield and war hammer at the ready.  18:36, Today: Thardhrom rolled 11 using 1d20.  Perception.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:30, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Durwe looks back over his shoulder, "Stay on this side.  Keep an eye out for that stranger and give shout if I am needed suddenly." He then disappears around the corner of the north end of the smithy.

[Private to Thardhrom: Thardhrom is halfway down the stairs, being as quiet as he can when he overhears someone speaking in low tones.

"There is ten gold for each of you." a reedy voice says, followed by the jingle of a coin purse. "Now take up your axes, clubs, or spears.  A few of you have leather, wear it.  These criminals are dangerous and some are elves.  You know what that means.  There's even a dark elf among them.  Can you believe it?! A dark fiend walking among us humans as if its normal as day and night.  Well, we shall teach them to cross the consortia." 

Several voices are heard in low tones and then the reedy voice again, "There is a cleric lass with them. Subdue her, but do not kill her.  She has in her possession a very dangerous item these criminals want to exploit.  Now, out the back way and flank the smithy.  I want to enter from both doorways and take them by surprise.  You will know when to attack."

Moments pass and finally there is silence below. ]

Private Message

[Private to GM: Thardrom stops in his tracks listening intently. The reedy voice does not seem familiar to him, but he could not be too sure. He knew the sound of coin could easily be motivation and all, but why just these ones to help? If they were criminal the more helping the better.

"Consortia?" There was another strange thing that peeked his interests. He tried to remember if he had ever heard such a name, but could not remember. He was also a bit shocked at hearing a Dark Elf was in town, but he did not understand the "You know what that means" comment about Elves. He also did not like the comment about the Cleric. He knew there were evil Clerics and all, but his curiosity was peeked about the dangerous item.

Two pronged attack on the smithy, he thought. "Nae be hurtin ta see wha be up. Nae seen me a Dark Elf 'fore. Nae time like da present. Best be watchin out fer da bunch, just dannae feel right." He quietly follows the group after it all went quiet keeping alert.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:08, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Finn pulls the covers tight over his body as he sleeps to keep out the cold.  He is very happy he took first watch before the rain started.  Hopefully it would be dry tomorrow.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:18, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Val keeps a sharp eye on the cabin and the office, he paces on that side to keep warm, but his eyes were ever vigilant!

29th of Muin, Saternesdaeg 0240hrs, cloudy and raining

Valeros is pacing the front of the smithy when he notices the guard at the office straighten with renewed alertness and peering straight ahead. Valeros peers in that direction. Something moves in the darkness in the direction of the road they had come up earlier. It is a blackness within the darkness, therefore perceptible. A rider on horseback.

Valeros pauses his pacing in front of the smithy, staring into the gloomy, rainy darkness. The horse moves again forward with a slow gait, the rider cloaked. No features are visible. In the darkness only the fact it is a rider on horseback can be discerned. The figure stops a few yards outside the light of the torches on both building doorways. The shadowy horse tosses its head to one side but is brought back under rein quickly. It paws at the wet, mud-soaked ground.

Durwe can be heard at the southern end of the smithy.

[Private to Thardhrom: Thardhrom exits the worker's quarters behind that of the others, careful not to make too much noise. Careful as he is, noise occurs with his gear. He would just have trust in his faith and hope he is not heard.

The mysterious figure leads them back parallel of the stacks of logs until clearing the end of them, then turns left. They cross the road. At the corner of the logs Thardhrom peers ahead with dark vision and sees the group of burly workers, all of which he knows are ill-mannered, temperamental, and rough meeting up with four others. Several horses are tethered at another pile of logs further south.

After several moments two individuals move stealthily northward, keeping quiet and moving amongst the logs. The others disappear eastward until out of Thardhrom's vision.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:53, Sat 13 May 2023.

Durwe checks in on Valeros for the tenth time since the mysterious one had entered the cabin. Probably a late comer from town after traveling all day, he thinks rationally. If one were late getting back, they would check in maybe. He would have to ask Valeros about that.

"Everything okay?"He asks the cutter, then notes his stance and gaze.  Durwe looks out upon the road and sees the rider. A dark, cloaked figure with indistinguishable features. A cowled head appears to be looking in the direction of the smithy.

"Trouble?" He asks Valeros quietly, approaching the cutter while keeping an eye on the rider warily.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:38, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

"It very well could be Master Durwe, it very well could be. Should I go out and challenge him?" he asks Durwe.

"Hmmm, not our business friend Valeros." Durwe replies, looking down at his sword hilt. "Let's watch him and see what he does."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

[Private to GM: Thardhrom watched curiously at what was going on. He reaches into the small pouch of spell components and took out a small piece of folded paper crushing in it hands, opened it taking the ash from it and sprinkles on himself. He placed one hand over his eyes and covers one ear, then quietly speaks a phrase, "Darkness be coverin me an hidin me. May me step be light an quiet." (Pass without trace)

Thardhrom slowly makes his way towards the main group. He was glad that he worked here, for it helped him in keeping to the cover and not smacking into something. The men were nothing but thugs and bullies. Some he had run in with some he did not. He still had a bad feeling and none of this made it any better or any sense.

Thardhrom moved to within ear shot of them and stopped just watching. He did not want to just walk up upon them just yet, till he knew what he would need to do. He reached down grabbing a few stones. Stones be tossed ta distract 'em if'n need be, He thought to himself and he waited.]

Inside the smithy the companions not on watch are all asleep. The fire burns, but lower now several hours into the third watch without fuel.  Suddenly, there is a thump inside the room near the back side of the building.  Loki wakes, stands immediately, sniffing the air.  But nothing stirs and nothing smells wrong, and so the mastiff does not growl.

Elmona, Finn, Larn, and Xenaryn are startled awake by a noise.  Nothing seems amiss, but they do notice Loki stirring.  The dog must have awakened them is their first thought.  But then, Larn and Finn both notice the barred double doors are no longer barred, with the large plank lying on the floor.  Loki begins growling and barking as the double doors creak open on their own. Beyond is the dark night. Even Elmona sees nothing out to the limit of her dark vision. But not for long. The elf is startled as at least a dozen armed men are rushing toward the doors from the direction of the wood line.

Meanwhile.... Outside the smithy, Valeros and Durwe watch on as a mysterious rider sits in the middle of the rutted road leading up to the cabins. It stays just shy of entering the torchlight from either building.  It's shadowy countenance does not change much, with hooded cowl turned toward the smithy and the shadowy horse prancing anxiously.  Suddenly, both men turn to the smithy when they hear Loki bark.  Just as suddenly, they turn back and the horse and rider are gone!

[Private to Thardrom:
Thardhrom follows the main group of men as closely and as quietly as he can, passing over the terrain without a footprint in sight or limb disturbed.  He is not noticed with all his noise, but now they travel northward just inside the wood line until they are adjacent to the smithy.  Thardhrom settles into a hiding spot just in time to see one of the three cloaked figures with the cut yard men standing at the edge of the wood line.  "Aprire", he speaks aloud. He then waves a hand and Thardhrom can hear a creaking noise coming from the smithy which is outside the range of his dark-vision.  The doors are opening, he realises.  A magic user!  A dog within the building begins barking.  Another cloaked figure shouts in an undertone, "Go! Now!"  The burly men rush forward with clubs and axes. A few have short swords and shields... Lumber yard guards!]

---

Begin combat round 0240.6
Party surprised!  Foe is charging the smithy! For those new to the game, initiative is rolled on every round in combat scenes whether it is used or not.  Rounds are six seconds.  For spell casters, a spell goes off on the CT of the round as listed on your sheets. A cast time of 1r means it goes off first in the next round, and so on, if not disrupted.

Active conditions...
Armor - Finn
Armor - Alaion
Armor - Xen
Armor - Xune
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:34, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

Once she recovers her senses, Elmona casts Sleep on the largest mass of the oncoming men.
This message was last updated by the GM at 17:28, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

Dniella is startled awake at the barking of the great mastiff.  She rises off the bedroll, looking around wildly and sees the doors in the back opening. "Aye! Get up! Get up!" she shouts, rolling onto her knees to get up.  She grabs for her dagger at her belt while trying to get up.  They would be on them before she could get off the floor. Drat! Should have had those alarm spells set is all she can think at the moment.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:01, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

Valeros sets his shield and raises his axe as he begins moving on the attackers! "Let's get them Durwe! Alarm! Alarm! We are attacked!"

 A stout form shot up from the blanket that covered him. A snarl escaped the dwarf,as he reached for his sword that was naked next to him." By Clanggedens ball sack! Ye woke me up, ya did. Ye will pay fer that!:: As the outraged Dwarf attempted to gain his feet.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:47, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

Durwe snarls in rage at seeing the rider no longer there.  It is apparent what happened. "Damn! A diversion Val!" He shouts. Valeros is already moving, either to circle the smithy and flank or to the door to get through. "To the rear Val!  I'll look here.  There is a mage nearby to have maintained that illusion!"

The elf begins scanning the stacks of wood to the south, the most logical place to be hiding to cast a spell.  He walks quickly in that direction using his dark-vision to lead him in the darkness. Now that he realizes, he thinks on the figure and how it was so nondescript.  He shakes his head, addled at being so fooled.  Too late, he sees them.  Two figures among the stack of logs near the road.  One is aiming a crossbow at him, the other casting. Durwe reaches for his spell component pouch, but knows he is too late. They have the drop on him.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:39, Sun 12 Mar 2023.

Valeros turns the corner and sees the enemy. He instantly attacks!

[Private to GM: 15:05, Today: Valeros rolled 12 using 1d8+4.  damage.

15:05, Today: Valeros rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  to hit.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:01, Mon 13 Mar 2023.

Duivelssmak finally snaps out of a horrible dream about being tormented by devils.  Realizing the party is in combat, he rises quickly and immediately casts Bless.

And may the Saint watch over us until all the bad blood has been shed!

Alaion is startled from his sleep by Loki's barking.

Getting up as quickly as possible, he readies his shield and tries to draw his mace as he attempts to shake off the sleep.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:35, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

Finn realizes that a choke point exists at the door.  The group needs time in order to get up and get their weapons.  He has to figure a way of delaying the group rushing the door from getting in.

Grabbing the caltrops from his pouch, he aims toward the outside of the door.  He throws the tetsu-bishi into the space in front of it. The enemy would have to move slowly through them or risk puncturing their feet and slowing them down and injury.  He doesn't like putting himself in the line of fire of any missile weapons or spells from the Mage that had cast the 'Knock' spell but hopefully his armor spell would hold.

[Private to Hand of Fate: I am reviewing my equipment and will email you shortly.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:00, Mon 13 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom makes out 3 figures one of definitely a mage. The other 2 he is uncertain of. He casually, but cautiously makes his way towards them. When close he quietly speaks. "Sorry, be 'ere ta watch yer backsides. Nae be sure wey tho." He looked them over as he kept walking towards them, shield at the ready and mace in hand. "Ya be lookin like ya got more dhan 'nough ta keep yer self safe, but aint be arguin 'bout it. All be payin da same. Ya aint be seein da Dark Elf be ya? Aint nae seen one."

Thardhrom was uncertain who was who or who was the good guys here, so he planned to play it as it was dealt to him off the cuff. Be makin fer more fun dhis way, he thought to himself as he got closer.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:32, Tue 14 Mar 2023.

The doors to the smithy creak open and Loki begins barking. Elmona sees a dozen or more men charging from the darkness beyond where she knows a tree line exists.  Finn and Elmona are first to their feet and react.  Elmona finishes casting sleep and seven of the charging individuals slow, feeling the slumber affect them until they slump to the ground asleep. This leaves eight still charging the smithy, four of which are better armed and armored.  Two purplish magic missiles streak through the darkness from the tree line to hit Elmona in the chest (-5 pts).  She reels from the impact.

Finn grabs the twenty caltrops from his bag and tosses them at the doorway, an inefficient and ineffective way of deploying them. Some fly far wide, while the majority land somewhere within the intended area. The caltrops have the intended effect though, stopping four of the charging men for a moment to pull the caltrops free. The remaining four men, better armed and armored pass through the caltrops unaffected, probably because of the heavy boots they wear and soft ground.

The remaining men rush through the doors. The first brings his shield forward and runs right into Finn(-3 pts). Finn reels backward from the impact and is flung over the edge of the table and onto the floor. The second guard bashes into Elmona with the same tactic. The shield collides with the elf (-2 pts), and she twists her body to deflect the impact momentum and therefore keeps her footing. The third guard charges into the room and stabs at Thorgwain, the first prone companion he comes to. Thorgwain quickly rolls away and the sword bites into a nearby crate. Wood flies through the air, hitting a befuddled Xenaryn on the cheek. The fourth guard, a muscled powerhouse, charges the dark elf, slashing at her with a short sword.  Xune, startled awake by the mastiff, sees the attack and tries to twist away cat-like.  It is enough that only the tip of the blade slashes her leg (-1 pt).

Meanwhile... outside the smithy in front Durwe hears the snapping catgut sinew twang of the crossbow, then hears the bolt fly past him with a whine.  Two magic missiles streak from the mage, bolts of pure radiant energy. They strike unerringly, the impact jarring Durwe to the core(-8 pts) and stopping his forward movement.  The elf is surprised to see the one guard from the office building charge past him with a wild war cry. He leaps one of the logs and on landing thrusts his short sword upward into the mage, but it is not a fatal strike. The mage pushes back off the blade, his fingers already in a pouch at his side. The thief darts out into the road, readying for another attack.

Valeros hot streaks it around the smithy in the darkness, nearly tripping twice. On the other side, he finds seven men lying prone on the ground ten yards before the double doors and hears a large commotion going on in the smithy. Not slowing much, he attacks one of four individuals that is pulling a caltrop from his shoe. With a sweep of his sword a leg is cut from beneath one man that barely registered Val's presence. The man falls to the ground wailing and grabbing at a leg that's no longer there with bloody hands.

Thardhrom's voice struck like lightning to two of the figures, their cowled heads spinning in reaction to hearing it.  The mage either ignored it or didn't hear it, being intent on something else. The first snarls lowly, "You've been paid. Get in there now!"

The other figure, of a shorter stature says demurely in a feminine voice, "T'wernt no dwarves in the lot." She throws her cloak open, producing a spike-less morningstar in one hand and a buckler on the other arm. She approaches Thardhrom with a calculating glare and a smile, relishing in what is to come. "I'll take care of this." she says. Thardhrom has the definite impression that he is suddenly very much in danger.

---

Begin combat round 0240.12   Begin posting actions for round two. Prone characters lose initiative for the round unless attacking or casting while prone.

Active conditions...
(Armor) - Finn  - Alaion - Xen - Xune
Prone: Finn, Alaion, Duiv, Larn, Xen, Xune, Mysh, Dani, Thorgwain,

This message was last edited by the GM at 22:37, Mon 17 Apr 2023.

Elmona moves to the side to put the walls between her and the mages while casting a Magic Missile at the man attacking Xune.

---

18:29, Today: Elmona rolled 5 using 1d4+1.  Magic Missile man attacking Xune.

Casting time of 1.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:31, Wed 15 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom shook his head. "Aint got much fer eyes dhen girlie. Be in da back grabbin me shield. Jimmy boy be da one tha told me. He be knowin aint gonna pass up a chance fer free coin an ta see a Dark Elf er a scrap. Aint nae beef wit ya. Just be doin wha be told."

Thardhrom eyed her up ready to rush the lot or her if it came to it.

[Private to GM: Persuasion success]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:28, Wed 15 Mar 2023.

Valeros turns to the next man and attempts hitting him hard as well, hoping to sink his blade in deep!

[Private to GM:
Hits AC1 for 9 points damage
12:46, Today: Valeros rolled 9 using 1d8+4.  damage.
12:46, Today: Valeros rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  to hit.
12:46, Today: Valeros rolled 5 using 1d6.  initiative.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:26, Wed 15 Mar 2023.

Myshra wakes to barking and shouting. As the panic sets in, she rolls over, forfeiting for a moment the opportunity to get to her feet and quickly pushes her pack that contains the tome behind a large barrel that has odd pieces of iron slats and bars poking out from its open top. If things went south, maybe it would not be found.

Then chaos as men charge into the room. Myshra yelps as the noise and violence erupts right in front of her. Finn goes flying and rolls to a stop on the floor. She reaches from her vantage to grasp the leg of the man passing her to get to the mage. "Tha Dia a' toirt seachad, agus tha Dia a' gabhail," She prays, evoking the Will of Heironeous against her enemy. The gods that give can also taketh away.

---

13:02, Today: Myshra rolled 2 using 1d6 for initiative
13:43, Today: Myshra rolled 16,6 using D20,d8
Hits AC6 while prone for 6 points
Casting cause wounds

Having been awakened by the commotion, Duivelssmak rises and immediately casts Bless.

OOC- As indicated previously.

Finn shakes his head in disbelief.  He can barely believe that he got pushed over the table.  He swears next time he would know where his equipment was so he could set the caltrops before going to sleep and could cast a useful spell next time.

His eyes are drawn to the door and the gloom beyond.  He isn't sure where the 'Magic Missiles' came from but there were still enemies out there.  Val and Durwe are also out there but the gloom was hard to see through.  He decides the time to cast his spell is over as the enemy is among them.

He attemps to improve his armour class as he stands by using the table for cover.  At this point he has few options and like a cornered rat, swings his dagger at the man in front of him.

---

(OOC) I think Finn is already in melee so the 'Bless' doesn't affect him.  Stat block AC does not include 'Armor' spell.

Hits AC-1 for 5 damage.

03:35, Today: Finn rolled 20,5 using 1d20+1,1d4+1.  Dagger attack.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:09, Thu 16 Mar 2023.

 As the Dwarf got to his feet, he made an awkward swing at his antagonist that goes wide and missed.

---

11:51, Today: Thorgwain rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  To Hit roll.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:28, Fri 17 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom waited to see if she was going to attack or not. It did not look like it was going to happen, but he still was not sure. He still had that gut feeling that something was not right here and these ones were the ones behind it all, but he had no answers to go by. He kept watching and wondering, before he figured he would see if he could get anymore information on what was going on. "So be askin what be goin on out a da question 'ere? Nae got told. Jus told ta guard yas." He looked from the lass to the mage and the other one.

After waking with her face pressed firmly into her spellbook, Xen decides to turn in for the night while the first watch is still in process. She succumbs quickly to sleep, dreaming first of floating through the air, then later of a strange dark cloud that surrounds her on all sides. At first there is no sound, but then distant voices and the growl of a dog. Then more voices, this time familiar. Finally, something strikes her cheek and she sits up to find chaos unfolding all around her. She scrambles clumsily to her feet, thankful that she was modest enough to sleep mostly dressed. Still confused by the goings on, she realizes her component pouches are not tied around her waist like they are when she is fully prepared. Only now does she realize what Vade meant when he told her to always be prepared. Another lesson learned the hard way.

At least her quarterstaff is within reach.

With no better choice at her immediate disposal, she swings recklessly at the nearest foe, but her attack only stirs the air between them.

[Private to GM:
23:28, Today: Xenaryn rolled 5 using 1d6+1.  Initiative (+1 penalty due to DEX).
23:54, Today: Xenaryn rolled 6 using 1d20.  Quarterstaff vs. nearest foe.]

The noise of the attack on the smithy rouses Larn from sleep. Young and full of vim Larns leaps up and grasps at his sword. Under attack Larn swings his new sword at their attackers.

---

OOC Hit AC-1 for 5 damage.
21:38, Today: Larn rolled 17,8 using d20,d8+3 ((17,5)).
This message was last updated by the player at 12:54, Sat 13 May 2023.

The chaos erupts in the smithy.  Free from attacks from anyone, Daniella grabs her bow. She pulls an arrow from the quiver leaning on the wall and takes careful aim outside the doorway, waiting for one of the attackers to cross her field of vision while fighting Valeros.  One does and she lets fly.

---

10:37, Today: Daniella rolled 1,14,6 using d6-3,d20+4,d6
Loss of initiative in getting up
Short range, Hits AC2 for 6 points damage.

Durwe follows the quick movements of the crossbowman while the guard attacks the mage.  The elf charges with sword and shield in hands.

---

11:21, Today: Durwe rolled 0,20,10 using d6-2,d20+3,d8+3
Hits AC-3 for 10 points.

The woman advancing on Thardhrom hesitates, her eyes squinting narrowly as she ponders the dwarf's words of persuasion.  Thardhrom can sense the easing of tension of her stance as she stops her stride and points at the doors. "What's going on is, you have been paid.  Get in there and get that strongbox.  We do not need guarding."

Duivelssmak stands within the smithy and grasps his holy symbol.  Producing it before his enemies, he casts the sacrament upon which allies not in combat would be offered some protection and a boon upon their actions. The companions each within the smithy are blessed by St. Cuthbert.

Elmona's magic missile flies from her finger tips to strike the guard attacking Xune while the dark elf is getting off the floor.  The unexpected strike rattles the fighter, throwing him off balance, giving Xune time to rise.  His swing at the dark elf goes well wide of the mark. Her Kris blades reflect the orange glow of the forge's fire as she attacks.  The guard manages to bring his shield up and deflects her short sword blade.  The dagger comes nowhere near to hitting as Xune trips on a bit of debris on the floor, nearly falling.  She manages to catch the edge of the large table and stay on her feet.  Elmona however, is still hounded by the guard that attacked her.  He is about to lunge at her with blade when Loki strikes, biting the man at the leg.

Valeros successfully dodges a club aimed for his head when two somethings purplish quickly streak from the darkness near the wood line to strike Valeros in the side (-5).  The magic missiles enter Valeros' body as might an arrow before the magic dissipates into a purplish vapor that fades.  He then dodges another club and cuts a mortal wound into the man on a return stroke of blade.  He then deflects an axe with his blade when he notices another figure emerge from the darkness. This fighter is cloaked, armored, and wields a long sword with a steel shield with a black crow emblazoned upon it. This man Valeros remembers from the tavern.  The hecklers!  Valeros barely backs away in time to avoid a cut from a swing with the blade.  Wounded with now two men against him and a mage somewhere in the dark.  The odds are stacked against him. "The Black Crows will have the last laugh this night cutter!" The man says venomously then laughs while launching another attack.

Finn rolls under the corner of the table as the guard's short sword cuts into the thick table leg. Finn rises, dagger in hand, and while the guard is yanking on the sword to free it, stabs the blade into the man's abdomen.  That guard bellows a roar of pain, scrunching his face in agony and rage. The blade is yanked free. The guards face goes ashen and his roar of rage goes quiet as a hand at floor level grasps his leg unexpectedly.  Myshra has called upon the Will of Heironeous and the man's wound in his abdomen opens wide with blood and intestine issuing forth. The life is drained from his body in mere seconds. The corpse falls to the floor.  Myshra rolls away to get up and to avoid the pooling blood.

Xenaryn swings her quarterstaff ineffectively at the guard attacking Thorgwain.  It distracts the man enough that Thorgwain can get to his feet.  Larn rises as well.  The guard swings at the dwarf, but Thorgwain just manages to bring his shield up and deflect the short sword.  This opens an opportunity of attack for Larn.  The tribesman puts the axe in the middle of the guard's back, cleaving the spinal column and rupturing the heart.  It is a fatal blow and the body falls to the floor.

Daniella releases her arrow and it flies through the double doors to hit the man wielding an axe.  The arrow lodges itself in the man's throat.  Blood begins gushing from the man's mouth as he slumps to the ground dying.

Meanwhile.... in front of the smithy, the mage is quicker than the lone quardsman and two flashes of purplish light light up the logs around them.  The guardsman slumps to the ground.  The rogue takes aim at Durwe as the elf charges across the road to reach her.  She releases and the bolt nicks the edges of Durwe's shield, sending the bolt into his neck (-5).  The elf's momentum continues forward and his blade pierces her leather armor through and through until their bodies collide.  They glare into each other's eyes, inches apart, then both fall to the road.

"Time to wake some sleeping beauties. Come!" the cloaked woman says to Thardhrom, turning and moving quickly toward the slumbering men. She kicks at a couple, rousing them from their magically induced slumber.

---

Begin combat round 0240.18   Begin posting actions for round three. Prone characters lose initiative for the round unless attacking or casting while prone.  Current attackers include a guardsman on Elmona, a clubber on Valeros, a cloaked fighter on Valeros, a mage somewhere in the dark, two mercenaries rising from sleep, another cloaked figure waking sleepers at the end of the this round. Thardhrom is still unseen by companions as he has not moved yet.

Active conditions...
(Bless) - 6rnds - Everyone but Durwe and Valeros, +1 attack bonus
(Armor) - Finn - Alaion - Xen - Xune
Prone: Mysh

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:38, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

Having exhausted her magic, Elmona draws her sword and tries to strike at the guardsman who is attacking her.

OOC: 10:43, Today: Elmona rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  Sword attack, man attacking me or closest. +1 Str, +1 Bless
03:07, Today: Elmona rolled 2 using 1d6+1.  Damage, if needed.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:07, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom sighs deeply, for this whole thing feels wrong somehow. He was in the dark on who was right and who was wrong, but he follows the woman, then said. "Ta be 'onest 'ere aint got coin yet, just a promise from Jimmy Boy dhere be coin fer me. An told ta stay wit ya lot. So, if'n ya wish me to go in dhere, dhen dhere be coin ta be placed in me hand, first."

Thardhrom waits for the woman to bite back at him and at this point is more than ready to give her a good shield bash if need be.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:01, Sun 19 Mar 2023.

"Come face me alone cowardly dog!" he says to the man talking to him, and he proceeds to destroy another of the other's warriors!

[Private to GM: 12:44, Today: Valeros rolled 7 using 1d8+4.  damage.

12:43, Today: Valeros rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  to hit.]

Thardhrom speaks his words. After kicking the second man awake, the cowled woman turns, bringing her spike-less morningstar to bear and raising her shield.  She lunges at Thardhrom, spinning the spike-less morningstar above her head for a downward strike.

---

18:17, Today: Hand of Fate, for the NPC C1, rolled 4,7,6 using D6,d20+2,d6+1
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:37, Mon 17 Apr 2023.

Thardhrom was prepared for the attack. He had already had his shield ready for the strike. "Be figurin, ya bunch be bad." He returns the strike with a side swing from behind the shield.

---

(20:43, Today: Thardhrom rolled 11 using 1d20.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:58, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Seeing that he’s being double-teamed, Duivelssmak rushes to Valeros’s side.  He swings his mace against the cloaked fighter, hoping to dash the sin right out of him, along with a goodly portion of brains.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:36, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Finn stared at this spilling of intestines, the bile raising in his throat. The gruesome end distracts him but he recovers and evaluates his surroundings. Two down in here, two more to go.

He has no close attack spells and the field is getting crowded with melee.  He yells out to those outside.

"Durwe!  Geek the Mage!  We can't see  'im!"  He shouts.

He then moves to help Elmona and Loki.   Casters stick together, and she could see in the darkness and fire her bow.  He swings his dagger at the foe, joining Loki.

---

OOC: Hit AC -3 for 4 damage.
01:43, Today: Finn rolled 4,22,4 using 1d6-1,1d20+2,1d4+1.  Init, Hit, Dmg.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:50, Wed 22 Mar 2023.

Up and on his feet Larn steps over the corpses of the man that he has slain. Battles rages around the youth, the tribesman feels both fear and excitement. Blood rushes and his heart pumps. Impulsively he rushes to another of their enemies, his sword quick and true.

---

OOC Hit AC-2 for 10 damage. Forgot to include the Bless bonus to hit on roller, does the bonus also include damage?

07:32, Today: Larn rolled 18,10 using d20,d8+3 ((18,7)).
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:07, Tue 21 Mar 2023.

Myshra grabs her mace as she finally rises from a prone position. Two guards remain standing in the forge room. She takes a swing at the one attacking Elmona.

---

10:49, Today: Myshra rolled 4,11,4.
Initiative - 4
Hits AC7 with bless for 4 points

Xune recovers from losing her footing, grabbing the edge of the large Blacksmith's table to stabilize herself. She then spins and flanks to a side weaving a dance of blades as she moves. Violet eyes watch for the opening and finally she lunges,  seeking a different targeted point with each blade on her enemy.

---

Hits AC6 for 3 points and misses with dagger.

Alaion rushes out to lend aid to Valeros. He charges at one of the men rising from their slumber. He is surprised to see a dwarf attacking a cowled figure outside the range of the dim light of the smithy. And, where is Durwe?

---

Initiative 3, misses!

Standing atop a crate, a surge of relief flows through the Daniella as her arrow fells one of the men attacking Valeros. Without hesitating, the young rogue launches another volley of arrows at whatever enemy crosses her line of sight outside the doorway.

---

1st arrow misses, 2nd arrow critical, 9pts dmg

Durwe's eyes blur and roll up into his head but he fights off the darkness, somehow managing to keep unconsciousness at bay. He rolls over, holding the bleeding wound with one hand while fumbling with a pouch on his belt. At least the bolt went through and did not lodge. He pulls one of the two healing potions he carries from the pouch's depth. With a groan of pain he brings the vial to his mouth and pulls the cork free. His vision is swimming, blurring into and out of focus. He hopes this is the right potion. He tips the vial up, emptying the contents into his gullet. The wound closes enough that he will not bleed out and he gets to his knees. The rogue lies next to him, eyes fixed to the sky.

He takes a moment to breathe and gather his gear, looking warily for the mage. But the mage is not within his range of darkvision.

A voice calls from within the smithy. Finn! Grasping his sword, Durwe stumbles from the road hoping to catch the mage before he can do more damage. While moving, he fumbles for a second healing potion.

Xen tries to make sense of the chaos unfolding around her. Still barefooted and without her pouch of useful magic components, she hasn't access to her full collection of spells. But one, she realizes, has no need for material components. With narrowed eyes, she mutters an incantation, sending a glowing streak from her fingertip to the cloaked combatant before Valeros.

 "Not so smug now, are you?" She yells from inside the smithy.

[Private to GM: Xen casts magic missile at opposing guard.
23:54, Today: Xenaryn rolled 6 using 1d6+1.  Initiative (+1 penalty due to DEX).
23:54, Today: Xenaryn rolled 2 using 1d4+1.  Magic missile damage.  ]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:10, Thu 23 Mar 2023.

 Thorgwain makes his way to an enemy and attempts to thrust his short sword into flesh.

 01:48, Today: Thorgwain rolled 5 using 1d20+2.  attack roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:50, Thu 23 Mar 2023.

Outside the smithy a burly cutter smacks Valeros in the back with his club (-4pts). The pain is real, but Valeros doesn't let it affect his timing. The ex-cutyard worker turned adventurer slashes the unarmored man across the abdomen, eviscerating him.  The man falls into a pool of his own intestines. At the same time, Valeros is skewered (-6pts) by the cowled fighter's blade. From the smithy, Xenaryn whispers a practiced evocation,  the arcane syllables flowing easily from her mouth.  The cowled fighter is surprised by a magic missile streaking from the smithy striking him square on.

Nearby, the cowled woman and Thardhrom exchange blow against shields, neither gaining an advantage.  Thardhrom is then struck by magic missiles (-7pts) from the cowled mage at the wood line.  From the south end of the building, another cowled figure appears, and with a twitch of the fingers and a quick evocation another magic missile streaks and hits Thardhrom (-5pts).   Durwe was too late to interrupt that casting, but on seeing the mage at the southern end of the smithy, he casts a magic missile himself.  The golden arrow streaks from his fingers, striking the mage and vanishing into a wispy vapor after the damage is done. The mage slumps to his knees and falls over.

Alaion rushes out of the smithy to help Valeros with the cowled fighter but is met by one of the roused cutters. Alaion swipes at the man with his mace but his timing is off and it leaves him vulnerable. The cutter swings and the club hits him hard in the ribs (-9pts), rattling the elf, breaking a couple of ribs, and bending several plates of his scale mail.  It's enough to knock the breath from him.

Inside the smithy, Loki tears a bit of flesh from the guard's leg when he jerks free of the dog's jaws. Loki attacks again but is fought off by an attack from the guard with a sword which the dog avoids. As the guard is distracted by the rottweiler,  Xune sees an opening and lunges. The guard blocks the short sword but is surprised when the dark elf thrusts a dagger into him to the hilt.  The man hesitates and Larn seizes on the opportune moment, rushing in with axe in hand. The head sinks into the man's back, severing the spinal column.  The guard slumps to the floor dying. Blood pools on the stone floor beneath the man.

The other guard advances on Elmona again, but the elf blocks his blade with her own, then counterstrikes. Her blade knicks the guard's arm. Myshra attempts to help but gains no advantage. Distracted by Elmona's attack, Finn finds purchase with his dagger, sinking the blade into the guard's back, cleaving a kidney, and severing the liver.  The wound is fatal, eventually. The guard slumps to the floor in agonizing pain and dying.  He begins to beg for mercy and asks for help.

Duivelssmak wastes precious moments looking for his mace as chaos reigns around him.

---

Begin combat round 0240.24.   Begin posting actions for the round.   Current attackers include a cowled fighter on Valeros, a cowled mage at the woodline, and a cowled female attacking an unknown combatant.

Active conditions...
(Bless) - 5rnds - Everyone but Durwe and Valeros, +1 attack bonus
(Armor) - Finn - Xen - Xune
Prone: none

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:39, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

Elmona strikes for the nearest foe, but is distracted by the swirling melee in the half darkness.

---

16:31, Today: Elmona rolled 1,7,8 using d6,d20+2,d6+2.  Initiative, Attack, Damage.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:16, Fri 24 Mar 2023.

Judas evaluates the battlefield and frowns. Things have not turned out the way Warfril had laid it out. Now he lies on the ground, likely dead and Camilla. Where was she? Likely dead too. He glares at the elf that suddenly appears at the soutern corner of the smithy. Damn elves, he mutters

"Hextor!" He shouts. "Leave it. We must retreat now. Helena! Retreat."
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:44, Mon 03 Apr 2023.

Alaion gasps to catch his breath as he circles his enemy. He feints with his mace then spins with an upward bash against the cutter.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:40, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

Myshra kicks the guard's weapon away from him, then kneels. She examines the wound and shakes her head as the man falls unconscious. She could not waste her mana reserve when her companions could still need her, but she might stop the bleeding and worry with saving him later. She stuffs bandages into and around the wound to staunch the flow of blood, then takes up her mace and shield.

---

11:22, Today: Myshra rolled 13 for skill in healing.
12:58, Today: Myshra rolled 5 for initiative.

This message was last edited by the player at 16:59, Fri 24 Mar 2023.

Finn walks outside to the first sleeping opponent and removes his weapon, throwing it away from the melee.  He would take from anyone who was better armed or armoured first.

Thorgwain has short sword and shield in hand now. He seeks an opponent, and so decides to head over to the nearest enemy to engage.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:45, Sun 26 Mar 2023.

Valeros swings and sinks his blade deep into his opponent!

[Private to GM:
13:16, Today: Valeros rolled 1 using 1d6.  initiative.
13:13, Today: Valeros rolled 12 using 1d8+4.  damage.
13:13, Today: Valeros rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  to hit.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:43, Sun 26 Mar 2023.

As soon as he gets his mace under control, Duivelssmak rushes to Valeros's side and helps him dispatch his wicked foe.

18:37, Today: Duivelssmak rolled 7 using 1d6+1.  damage.

18:37, Today: Duivelssmak rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  to hit w/ mace

Hit AC 1
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Sun 26 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom reacts to the missiles hitting him. He curses himself for not just attacking them back there. "Khurdram's bloody beard, ya bunch a back stabbin, weak arse mages. Be taken more dhan dhat." He looked at the woman with a grin and anger in his eyes. "Girl, be my turn now. An be taken it out on ya."

He hears the mage calling her back and gives a loud laugh. "Ya nae be runnin off Helena. Ya be mine!"

Thardhrom hopes this works, as their shields meet he slides a leg between hers hooking her ankle trying to use his momentum to knock her to the ground bringing his shield and weight on top of her driving the wind from her lungs.

---

19:01, Today: Thardhrom rolled 19 using 1d20.  to hit .
19:00, Today: Thardhrom rolled 3 using 1d6.  Initiative.
13:17, Today: Hand of Fate, on behalf of Thardhrom, rolled 4 for improvised weapon damage
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:17, Sun 26 Mar 2023.

As the guardsman falls dead at her feet, Larn's axe buried in his back, Xune glances at Larn.  Her violet eyes twinkle with an adrenaline rush from combat and she smiles at the tribesman.  Then in a flourish, she turns, cape flying wide with the twisting motion and moves outside the smithy seeking an enemy to destroy.  The song of battle thrums in her veins as she rushes forward, two kris blades slicing through the night air.  A man with a club is her target. 

---

22:02, Today: Xune rolled 0,17,5,12,3
Initiative - (loss of initiative in moving)
Short sword hits AC2, 5 points
Dagger hits AC7, 3 points

This message was last edited by the player at 13:28, Thu 30 Mar 2023.

The enemy, at least within the smithy, is defeated and Daniella breathes easier, but her knees quiver with the fear coursing through her.  She is still not used to such violence.  Her eyes move down to the pools of blood around the dead guards.  She expected to fight when she embarked on her own, but only-- most likely, syndicate men coming for her.  These men were swords for hire.  No better than the thugs she expected to fight.  They knew the risks.

Dani takes a deep breath and slowly exhales.  Suck it up Dani girl, she mutters to herself.  This is the life of an adventurer. She jumps off the crate and moves to the double doors, avoiding the bodies on the floor.  She keeps her bow ready and looks out into the darkness, hearing the grunts, the clash of weapons and shields.  With only the light that spills from the double doors of the smithy lighting the field of battle, Dani takes aim on the cowled fighter.  A slow breath in and breathes out, releasing the string.

---

22:42, Today: Daniella rolled 17,3
Initiative - lost due to moving
Arrow hits AC2, 3 points

Without any enemy to face in the barn Larn exits the building. Seeing a cowled figure beneath the trees he runs straight for the woods to challenge them.

OOC Miss. 14:04, Today: Larn rolled 5,7 using d20,d8+3 ((5,4)).

Durwe expends the last of his magical reserves with casting a magic missile at the cowled figure fighting an unknown dwarf. He then stumbles his way along the wall of the smithy until reaching the double doors. 

---

13:28, Today: Durwe rolled 2 for initiative.
13:26, Today: Durwe rolled 5 for points damage in magic missile

Seeing the tide of battle turn, the cowled mage turns and quickly disappears into the darkness of the forest and underbrush.

Elmona exits the smithy, moving to aid Alaion against the club wielding cutter.  Her blade clashes against his club when he blocks her advance.  This leaves him vulnerable to an attack from Alaion.  The elf's mace hits the man in the head. He falls dead.

The cowled fighter heeds the words of his companion who has already turned back into the wood by backing away in a fighting withdrawal.  Val's advancing attack is too strong however and the fighter is cut down where he stands by the adventurer's axe.

Thorgwain exits the smithy, evaluating the crowded field.  He spies the other cowled fighter with a black crow emblazoned shield attacking a fellow dwarf.  He rushes over to help.  Durwe spies the same and casts magic missile at the cowled figure.  The golden arrow strikes, penetrating armor and flesh before dissipating in a golden vapor.  The pain of the arrow is a distraction to the woman and Thardhrom rushes into her with his shield while hooking his foot around her ankle.  The maneuver is successful and the woman sprawls to the ground on her back.  Thardhrom then brings the shield down onto her chest hard.  She gasps, trying to gain her breath with a broken rib.  The gasping ceases though, when an arrow from Dani's bow pierces her side, ending her life.

Myshra stuffs bandages into the open wound of the dying guardsman inside the smithy.  The bleeding stops and the man remains unconscious.

Larn rushes past the fighting in search of the mage in the darkness, but does not enter the wood line.  It is pitch dark when he gets there and he sees no one.  Finn disarms all five of the sleeping men.  Duivelssmak and Xune arrive to give aid in fighting, but are too late as all enemy combatants are down.

---

End of combat rounds...
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:42, Sat 15 Apr 2023.

As the quiet settles around them, Durwe looks around at his companions.  "Is everyone okay?  Did we lose anyone?" He asks ironically since he stands there holding one hand over a bleeding wound in his abdomen.

Myshra exits the smithy and after a quick evaluation, determines Durwe is in most dire need of aid. "This will help Durwe." She says, expending the last of her energy in casting a curative spell on the elf. 

---

16:54, Today: Myshra rolled 6 for CLW

Thardhrom feels the crack and knows he has her, then he feels her wince and a last breath goes out of her, then he sees the arrow sticking out of her. He looks in the direction it came from sliding his shield in defense. "W'at da bloody 'ell! Ya daft bunch a dumb arses. 'ho da bloody 'ell shot me prisoner? Be ya all daft? Da'nae any a ya want some answers?"

Thardhrom kept looking around and then checked the one called Helena. If he thinks a cure wounds will help he is going to do it, if not he is going to keep cursing loudly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:45, Mon 27 Mar 2023.

Xen, seeing the conflict at an end, sets her quarterstaff down and grabs her backpack, hurrying through it for her new stock of bandages and healing potions. "Who is hurt?" she asks.

Only after she starts lending aid does she realize she is not entirely dressed. Still barefooted with shirt untucked and vest nowhere to be found, she blushes, thanking Pelor that most of her clothes were still on.

"Your dwarven thanks is appreciated, master dwarf." Durwe says to the unknown ally with an elven voice filled with sarcasm. "If you want answers, you need look no further than foreman Jarlben. I am paying him a visit promptly. Mind you, there are two armed guards protecting him."

Though not fully healed, Durwe feels immensely better after Myshra's ministrations. His abdomen wound is nearly completely healed and he is able to walk upright again. "Thank you Myshra, and thanks to Heironeous." He approaches the fallen cowled  woman, noting her shield crest. "Anyone here recognize this crest or know who they are?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:56, Mon 27 Mar 2023.

"I'm hurt very bad Xen, I need help, he says reaching for a healing potion.

Although Elmona is significantly hurt, she'll let the fighters and main combatants take the healing potions first. She picks up her bow and heads toward the door, stating, "I believe it's our watch now."

Wheezing air as he breathes, Alaion grimaces when he evaluates his ribs with a free hand. That clubber hit him really hard. He glances at Duivelssmak, "I can use a little help mate." He says through gritted teeth.

"Loki heel." He commands, seeing the rottweiler sniffing at one of the sleeping men. The rottweiler pads to his side and waits.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:55, Mon 27 Mar 2023.

"How bad are you hurt Elmona? We have spells, potions, and poultices." He informed her.

"I took a bad hit. If there's extra potions, I could use one. But since I fight from the rear, I'd rather those who take the blunt of the blows to use them first."

"As they meant us death, after questioning the prisoners, I think we should summarily execute them. Master Durwe, after I'm healed a bit, I'm coming with you. This will not be forgotten!"

Thardhrom shook his head. "Aint be makin sense. Be one a his workers, an fer a w'ile. W'at be da reason fer 'im ta be doin dis? W'at ya got dat be wort killin fer? Was told it be evil. "Ow ya be sayin da foreman be behind dhis? W'at ya be noin?"

Thardhrom looked at the insignia. He was not certain what the thing was or represented. He was shocked that the foreman would be behind this, tho. It just did not smell right to him. He then looked to the Elf. "Name be Thardhrom Stonebreaker, an 'oo be ya?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:05, Mon 27 Mar 2023.

Durwe's elven ears quiver at the mention of an evil object from Thardhrom and he glances around at the others gathered outside the double doors of the smithy. These individuals were sent after them.

"There are two others dead on the other side of the building." Durwe states. "A rogue and one of the guards of the yard. If it weren't for that good man, I would be dead."

With his dark-vision, Durwe kneels, examining the woman's corpse. He flips the cloak linings to the side to find a leather pouch on her belt. "Can't really attest to the why, other than it is usually greed or fear.  Probably the former if my dealings with the foeman are any weight on the matter." Durwe replies to Thardhrom 's first question. He cuts the money pouch free, then notes a thong at her neckline. He pulls the leather free of her undershirt and gasps as a silver pendant of a lightning bolt within a ring is freed. He quickly stands.

"A cleric!" He states for the others to hear while moving his eyes to Myshra. "Of Heironeous!"This is highly unexpected. He sighs before answering the dwarf's second question.

"On watch, Valeros and I witnessed one of these cowled men entering the foreman's cabin. After a few moments, he or she exited and disappeared into the darkness in the direction of the laborer's quarters. We waited, then a rider appeared, but it was an illusory diversion to keep us from this side of the building. On hearing Finn, Val ran for this side while i searched for the mage responsible for maintaining the illusion."

Durwe glances to the southeast corner of the smithy and gestures in that direction. "That's his body there.  I am Durwe Ondolme, or Turnblade in human words, of House Ondolme of the Sylvan Glenholme. Now, what is your story? Why turn on your employers?"

Myshra gasps at the very suggestion they execute the men after questioning them. "Absolutely not!" She sputters, her young voice cracking with emotion. "We will not be executing anyone sir."

On hearing Durwe, Myshra steps over to the body and regards the woman. "I do not know her."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:43, Mon 27 Mar 2023.

Dani gives Elmona one of her potions of healing from her pouch. "Drink up."

[Private to Daniella: Potion removed from inventory.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:29, Sat 01 Apr 2023.

Duivelssmak closes his eyes as he lays hands on Alaion, trembling slightly as healing energy comes out of him.

Next he makes his way to Durwe and tries to understand what’s going on.  “You say this is a fallen cleric of Heironeous?”

---

19:58, Today: Duivelssmak rolled 5 using 1d8.  Cure light wounds.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:00, Tue 28 Mar 2023.

Thardhrom listened to the Elf with interest. He was not surprised to find out the Helena was a Cleric. She had the feel of it to her. He then looked a bit sternly at the Elf, then spoke. "So, ya be goin wit' da foreman cause ya seen people goin in dhere? Ya check ta see ifn da foreman be alive er nae? Fer all ya be noin' he be layin dead. As fer turnin. Aint got no coin ta be wit' em. Had me a feelin' w'it all da ruckus in da bunk'ouse an had ta check it out. Smelled ta 'igh 'ell. Dae nae felt good, so be waitin ta see w'at could be seen an 'oo be bad. Found out as da mages put two sets a magic missiles inta me back, an Helena dhere attacked me. So, ya maybe wantin' ta look in on da foreman."

Thardhrom looked at the Elf and then those near him and once again wondered, if the bad feeling still held on to him and if the foreman was still alive.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:01, Tue 28 Mar 2023.

Taken aback at the bedraggled sight of Val, Xen fumbles through her pack and removes a healing potion for the battered fighter. "Here," she stammers, still blushing about her unkempt appearance. "I- I have more if you need them."

[Private to Xenaryn: Potion removed from inventory.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:32, Sat 01 Apr 2023.

"Stop wasting resources!" Exclaims Finn to the party.  "There's no immediate need for healing and you can pray and stud for more spells this evening.  Someone should gather the bodies together so that we can check theym all for more food, water and Magic. Hopefully the one Mage has his Spellbook with him."

"We should check on the foreman and there'll be no more killing if we can help it.  I will accompany Duwre and this new dwarf Thardhrom to check up on him. Gather the prisoners against the wall and we'll figure out what to do with them shortly.  Fighters should be healed first and on patrol until we get back to our regular watches.  Given the circumstances we may leave a little later."

"As for this group worshiping a good God it's unlikely given their actions and their willingness to sacrifice the loggers here."

"She may have been charmed, too bad she's dead without telling her tale. Yes, the foreman might be dead, let's check on him." Val heads for the office to see for himself. He looked at Finn and Durwe to see if they were coming.

Thardhrom gave a snort. "Dat be 'y be wantin 'er alive, but ya dae nae do dat." He shook his head, then went on. "Be noin a bunch a dhese 'ere. Nae bad bunch, but coin be coin, ifn ya no wat be sayin. Let me be talkin ta em after be back from da foreman's place."

Thardhrom followed along still hurting from the magic missiles, but he had worse and would heal himself later.

[Private to Valeros; Thardhrom: Valeros worked in the cut yards as one of the guards as protection security. He does not know Thardhrom personally, but word had certainly spread about a dwarf hired recently claiming to be a cleric of Moradin. Such rumors are quickly put down and any such healing must come from an unknown magical relic of Forgeholme. A charlatan for sure. Human ideology states that the "fallen" races of elves, dwarves and Hin were abandoned by the gods in favor of the children of Light... Humans.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:34, Wed 29 Mar 2023.

"I am coming.  We need to be careful.  The foreman might have been charmed too." He says, sighing.

He hopes no one else is hurt tonight.  He absentmindedly rubs his chest where the shield smashed him.

"Be careful." Myshra says, taking the holy symbol from the dead woman's neck. "I will begin studying my prayer book immediately."

Standing back up, she looks at the dead that were cowled. "They are not carrying packs. They must have had horses nearby. If that mage did not take them, we may find packs there, if we could find them."

"Either packs nearby or they were local to the area," Elmona states in her plain, matter-of-fact manner.

Thardhrom finally got a better look at the one who was going with to check on the foreman. "Oi, ya be da guard 'ere be ye nae? Be seein ya round 'ere, but ner dhis close. Da nae  remember ya name dho." He looked at Valeros for a bit more scratching his beard and then gave a slight wince. "Bloody mages. Damnable missiles dhey ner miss. Be 'aven ta deal wit dhat later fer sure. Val somethin er uder."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:26, Thu 30 Mar 2023.

Xen shrugs after hearing Finn's surprising exclamation regarding resources. "You can keep the potion," she mumbles to Val. "I have more." Then a hint of a smile appears on her face. "Plus, you look terrible!"

She turns to find her boots and vest while the others discuss their next step.

"Yes, Valeros is the name, I've seen you in the cut-yards. You coming along? What is your name?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 13:26, Thu 30 Mar 2023.

Alaion thanks Duivelssmak for the healing hands, then begins gathering the dead, laying them out near the double doors.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:31, Sat 01 Apr 2023.

Valeros heads for the office, partially healed from drinking a potion. He hated having to use one because they will be needed later.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:41, Sat 01 Apr 2023.

In reply to Valeros (msg # 328):

Thardhrom nodded and followed as he spoke."Ya bet yer arse. Thardhrom Stonebreaker, be me. Dae me some 'ealin fer da boys in da yard an odher dhins."

Duivelssmak inquires as to who is still in need of healing.  He may be able to assist, he says wearily.

This has already been a long night, and he suspected it was far from over.

There are so many of us; we have to get organised.  Finn knows he's no leader but he could be the Quartermaster, he guesses.  Otherwise this mission is not going to succeed, in his opinion.

'Well damn."  Says Finn.  "I think we better go after that mage.  If he's a fourth circle caster he only has two spells left and if he's third he has none. He's vulnerable now and he might be reporting back to Vade."

Finn looked to Valeros.  "Check on the foreman, we'll get organised here.  The rest of the hunting party will meet you at the cabin, if we feel we can do it safely.'

Finn looks at the prisoners.  "If we parole you and you stay in your cabin until we can talk we will let you live.  We will even give you your clubs back afterwards. Is that acceptable to you?"

After receiving a response, he moves to the rest of the party, trying to be out of earshot of their ptisoners.  He turns to Alaion.  "Alaion, can Loki track?  If he can't, I'd like you, Mishra, and Xune to recover and gather the dead bodies.  We might as well regenerate some spell power.  Elmora it's up to you if you want to stay or hunt, I am pretty sure you're out of spells.   Make sure you light at least one torch for the humans to see."

"I'd like those who can see in the dark to come.  The horses should be near the road.  Hopefully there aren't too many Charmed henchman guarding the horses."

"Everyone in agreement?  Time is short."