Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Jol (Map) | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
Crossing the border into the Nolands the party is met with rolling hills and an increased number of evergreens. The days remain warm yet there is a chill breeze in the air with the nights threatening to dip below freezing. The crisp air calls forth morning mists which are sometimes thick enough to conceal the road. Yet wildlife remains plentiful and with Draeven's bow competing with Kenan's, there is no shortage of meat for the journey. Thankfully these boons ease the demand on the caravan's stores and by diverting a few more greens off of some plates, Rennyn's stomach is content.
As though to welcome the party to these lands, flocks of ravens can be seen congregating in the trees along the way. These scavengers follow the caravan on the journey north, their black choir of caws harrying the group in the early hours until after twilight. However this is the worst of it as the journey proves uneventful.
At last the city of Jol comes into view. One of the inland kingdoms, it is nestled in the rugged uplands south of the Grungir Forest. It is small with a population of only roughly 10,000. Mostly Ulfen reside here with a faction of dwarves and others interspersed.
From the looks of it, Jol is an extremely old city with strong walls and numerous solidly built structures within, each constructed to withstand the rigors of combat. Aside from the main road, which bisects the city and passes right through the castle, the streets and alleys of Jol are narrow and twisted, following little rhyme and less reason. Houses are packed tight together and are usually two stories high, with the second story hanging out over the street. There is a distinctive smell, hinting at a sanitation problem. Still, it is the safest place in all of Southmoor.
At meal time, Rennyn gathers together all the members of the caravan to discuss a few pressing matters. I think from this point forward we should be very careful what we say and who we say it to. The less people who know who we really are and what we really are up to the better.
We might even want to take efforts to disguise our appearances, use alias' and come up with a cover story as to why we need to get to Minkai. We have no idea who might be listening or watching. If they are using magic to do so there isn't much we can do for now, but we should at least make an effort to keep mundane means of figuring out who we are and where we are going a secret.
While most of us shouldn't draw too much attention for our appearance, we might want to acquire a magical means to disguise Ameiko as soon as possible.
The most believable cover story would likely be a travelling merchant caravan. Perhaps we can pick up a load of goods from places we travel through and take them to the next stop. Repeating as often as necessary.
We can all assume roles to fit that story and cover identities to go along with that.
Sandru will of course pose as the caravan master and merchant. Koya along with her daughter Fenra the cooks. Shalelu a guide. Draeven, Kenan and I can be hired muscle for protection. Jeryn can pose as a travelling academic with Ameiko his assistant. Kelda another passenger travelling to Kalsgard. Spivey can do what she does well and stay unseen when in cities.
Comments or suggestions? he asks of the assembled group.
Rennyn prepares for his nightly trance with his sword laid across his lap. Staring down at the beautiful blade concern etches his features. I cannot hope to go unnoticed with such a fine and distinctive sword at my side. I will need to disguise it or keep it hidden. At least for a time.
As he drifts into trance another thought crosses his mind, What is your name?
Sandru and Shalelu, you two should inquire about acquiring some trade goods to transport to Kalsgard. Jeryn, Ameiko, Kenan and I will conduct the business of selling our treasures and visit the Church of Abadar to attend to Ameiko's business. Fenra, Koya and Draeven can purchase supplies for the trip to Kalsgard. Spivey you should stay with Sandru, Shalelu and the wagons. Kelda, you are of course free to accompany whoever you wish or do as you desire.
Everyone should also make an effort to gather as much information about the road ahead and anything else they can find out.
Once that all is accomplished, we can see about doing some personal shopping.
Anything else?
The Church first? Rennyn asks of his group. Then to sell our wares?
You can call me Gorm, Draeven shrugs while agreeing with the plan overall.
After taking care of their assignment, Draeven looks to find a few items for himself with his new wealth.
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Jol (Map) | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
Ameiko bites at her nails as she listens to Rennyn's concern over her identity. Her nervousness reflects one of those, "This is getting all to real" moments and the Tian is once again feeling out of her element. She tries to drum up some of that plucky courage which has made her a successful business woman, Ok, nodding more to herself than to Rennyn's suggestion, it's not exactly the first time I've had to role play but this is for the long term, right? And academic assistant? Ameiko looks hopefully in Fenra's direction for a better sounding job, What about my story? And, Ameiko's dark eyes narrow a little playfully, what name do you have in mind?
For Sandru's part, the caravanner frowns and rubs his chin as he contemplates running trade goods as cover, We could make that work. Sandru turns his gaze to the fire and lets the idea germinate in his head. Dozens of caravans work any given part of Varisia on a daily basis so it is viable cover. Good excuse to travel. Trouble is, those types; trade caravanners, keep regular scheduled routes, have reputations and locals come to trust them that way. It won't be easy but I think we could get our foot in the door with cheaper goods - there won't be much profit in it so not a lot of caravans will want to carry those loads. Sandru lowers his gaze at Ameiko apologetically, But it's worth a shot!
Leaning in close to the paladin "Ameiko" whispers, Rennyn, if I remember correctly, I won't be able to send a very long message to Magnimar. I know I want to sell my family's assets, but seeing as you want us to keep a low profile, how should I word it?
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Jol (Map) | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
As you slip into your trance the familiar smell of sandal wood incense drifts subtlety on the night air. At first, it is barely noticeable. Just a touch now and again with each passing minute. Gradually however, each successive breath brings the scent stronger, more frequent. From beneath the dark tapestry of your eyelids the swirling vapour trails of incense curls into view then rapidly dissipates as though a hand were swatting it away. "Swish'nnn...swish'nnn." Upon the second time you realize it is the sound of a sword blade cutting through the air. The contour of the blade makes the familiar swishing sound with each pass, much the same as an arrow might as it whizzes past ones ear, and the vibrating steal sings signalling a perfect cut.
And then you are there. Seated upon the tatami in the small Tian style room of Empress Onoko. She is kneeling, a katana tucked into her obi. With quick fluidity she draws the blade cutting the air in a flash of steel before sheathing the weapon. It is a demonstration; one cut, one kill.
Several minutes pass as the Empress draws, cuts and sheaths her blade in a variety of different ways. So many ways to draw a sword, so many ways.
When she sheaths the steel for the last time you realize the scabbard is nothing more than a thick walking stick, the hilt joining it in a near perfect seem.
What's in a name Rennyn? Empress Onoko's eyes remain fixed upon the void she'd last cut. My sword once had a name. At the time it held meaning. For some, knowing the name of a thing gives them control over it. And yet it is the spirit of a sword which defines it. Shizuru teaches the spirit is first forged and influenced by the smith then by the owner.
The Empress jumps to her feet, deftly drawing her sword catching the light of the room within its blade and you are returned to your thoughts.
Once Sandru has secured the caravans and everyone has made their plans Kelda approaches the group, I will leave you here. My honor prevents me from returning to Kalsgard. My face is not known here and there is opportunity to start anew. Placing her fist over her heart she swears, I shall not forget your kindness or your deeds and vow to live by the example you have shown. The Ulfen woman exchanges farewells with each of you in turn, leaving Draeven for last. When at last she turns to the big man, instead of reaching for his outstretched hand she presses her palms to his face and draws him in for a kiss releasing him from her embrace after a moment. Her gesture made, the tall blonde turns and walks away.
Koya tuts her disapproval, Disgraceful. I tell you, these modern girls move too fast Fenra. They're getting independent and throwing all their virtues away to the first man they see.
Ameiko closes her mouth and averts her eyes away from Draeven to tune in to what Koya has just said. The Tian's incredulous look shows the irony of the old woman's statement.
The residents of Jol are not as sociable as Kelda. Looks of suspicion and scowls from all sides seem to be commonplace as you stroll through the streets. Unfortunately these looks all seem to be directed at the group. The merchants are friendly enough; more than willing to do business all be it with minimal chit chat. Yet throughout the day the men of the group feel themselves being constantly sized up. No challenges or insults are issued - the feeling is simply, uneasy; like the whole population will unite against you if given the excuse. As for the women, especially Fenra, the sense of being watched also prevails but those eyes upon you feel hungry. Fenra's feminine intuition tells her she is being devoured as well muscled Ulfen men walk by. Some openly stare, others take a more clandestinely approach least their wives bring them to heel. Fenra even feels a few of the women's eyes upon her.
Over the course of the day, by chance you notice you not the only foreigners and that they too are enjoying the same Jolvial hospitality. But that is not all. Amidst the crowded streets and within shop and tavern the group manages to overhear several conversations of interest.
Two men walking ahead of you in the street, There's a meeting tonight.
Where?
Eastgate.
Will there action this time? The first notices the group and jabs his elbow into his companion before breaking into his native tongue,
Utenlandske spioner vil overhøre!
As Sandru concludes his business with one of the merchants, the old vender cautions, Keep your head man, and stay off the road north at night. He does not elaborate as to the why save to deliberately nod his unspoken understanding; there are things outside Jol's walls which aren't to be toyed with.
Within a tavern two Ulfen skalds speak at a neighboring table, Edgrin is looking for investors. He needs a 1,000gp. Says he's found a way down into the arena vaults.
Piss off!! The second chides his partner's foolishness, Last time someone funded his expedition they lost it all.
A group of Jol's flatfoots exchange news from outside the city's walls, Gunnar's patrol got in last night, seems Whiterook was hit again. They say wolves burned down half the village.
Gorum's hammer!
Easy Eirik, ya'll bring his wrath down on us all.
What of the Troll sign?
Gunnar found two more lurking Grungir's scrub. Tracked them north to the treeline.
Elsewhere two men talk by a street vendor as they await their stuet kjott No, still waiting on that supply caravan to hit town. It was suppose to be here last week.
A gaggle of women gossip as they pass, Witch's Wind is blowing in early. It'll be a bitter winter.
Another group chatter in passing, Burnt to the ground.
Poor Hilde
I'll say, they got to her dogs too, slaughtered them vicious like.
Leif must be furious.
The first voice whispers, Haven't found his body yet...
When the group finally reunites they are greeted by Sandru and Shalelu's sheepish grins. They've secured a wagon full of turnips and a commission to take the load Solskinn.
In response to Ameiko's question, but addressing the entire group Rennyn elaborates, Don't get too worked up about your cover story or new alias. Keep it simple and memorable. We are only looking to deceive casual inspection. The best plan is to avoid conversations about who you are, what you are doing and where you are going unless absolutely necessary. Do your best to deflect conversations about yourselves onto other topics. Indeed, it is probably best to avoid interactions as much as possible. I think it best to keep away from civilized areas as much as is practical.
Turning back to address Ameiko directly he adds, Personal assistant then. You can be "Ione" and I will be "Kai".
I don't have any experience in these matters. I have never owned anything that I couldn't carry with me in my entire life. I'm sure the priests of Abadar will know how to word it. You will of course have to reveal your true identity to them.
Draeven is momentarily caught off guard by Kelda's embrace but returns her kiss. An orc of few words, he nods his goodbye and watches her stride away. After a moment he looks to the others and gives a little shrug.
Rennyn flips up the canvas cover on one of the wagons and looks over the cargo of turnips. These will do just fine. It would have been preferred to get a shipment going further. The less stops on our trip the better.
Flipping the cover back down he adds, Nothing saying we need to actually deliver them to Solskinn. We could just take them along as far as they last to keep our cover story believable.
Draeven looks over the turnips and mumbles, Not sure a shipment of turnips needs this many "hired-swords" to protect it.
Rennyn pulls Ameiko aside and shows her the magical hat that he was able to locate and purchase. Once we leave Jol you should put this on and alter your appearance. The wizard who sold it to me explained that you can make yourself—including clothing, armor, weapons, and equipment—look different. You can seem 1 foot shorter or taller, thin, fat, or in between. You cannot change your creature type although you can appear as something similarly humanoid like an elf or orc. Otherwise, the extent of the apparent change is up to you.
You could add or obscure a minor feature or look like an entirely different person or gender. The spell does not change your abilities or mannerisms nor does it alter the perceived touch or sound of you or your equipment. You can also alter the hat to look like a comb, ribbon or other headgear.
I would politely suggest that you stick closely to your normal form but with just enough changes to render you unrecognizable as yourself. Anyone who interacts with the you whilst under the effects of the hat will have a chance to recognize the illusion.
I overheard some men talking about trolls being active in the area. These will definitely come in handy should we run into any, the half-orc offers as he hands out the nine flasks of alchemists fire the party found earlier in Brinewall.
And you should take these scrolls Fenra.
Fenra shivers as she senses the eyes on her. She likes an admiring glance maybe even more than the next person but these seem wrong. She refrains from her usual entertainments while in town, using her gifts only when haggling for better prices when shopping.
And you should take these scrolls Fenra.
Jeryn agrees to join the others on Ameiko's quest as there are bound to be a plethora of learning opportunities and experiences to be had. He momentarily laments that he will not be able to collect his things at home but luckily he always brings his best spell components and his spellbook with him.
I like the guise of a traveling academic very much as I plan to learn as many things as I can along our way. I hope to visit every library we pass and document our journey and our experiences to the best of my abilities. I shall endeavour, of course, to be discrete in our true purpose.
His eyes glitter with anticipation when talk of trolls comes up. He has been researching and practicing new spells along the journey, particularly those relating to fire.
Fenra asks Kelda, Are Northerners always like this with strangers or is this town unusual?
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Jol (Map) | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
Kelda regards Fenra for a moment trying to make up her mind whether the oracle means the people's suspicious nature or the way the men, and some of the women, are look at her. The blonde woman lowers her gaze and tentatively starts with the former. Every Ulfen is naturally suspicious. You should know, Baba Yaga's spies could be anywhere. The Winter Queen's people have been clandestinely terrorizing our lands for over a thousand years, murdering our men and stealing our children like wolves in sheep's skins. With such things threatening your existence, you'd be on your guard as well, yes? No one here can fully trust a foreigner, especially one in disguise. Realizing she is painting a rather morbid picture of her own people Kelda adds reassuringly, Kalsgard's citizens are different of course; they have never been conquered in this way and Baba Yaga's spies not as rampant. The blonde's eyes turn smug before continuing sympathetically, So, before the witch it is said the people of Jol were the strongest of the Nolanders. They were slayers of giants and Jol's leaders held much of Taldon by the throat demanding ransoms at will and ravaging their borders. Now look at them. Kelda raises her chin in defiance as her eyes trail across some of the Jolvian's nearby. They live in filth. Changing her gaze Kelda addresses the other side of Fenra's questions, As for the men, they like their women submissive. They would dominate you, now Kelda's eyes trail up and down the fair oracle's frame, take you to ecstasy's door but make you beg them to let you cross that threshold. Ulfen women are not that easy to control, Kelda smirks boastfully. You are a beautiful maiden from a foreign land, a tempting mark. Kelda is not with the group for long, departing once Sandru's caravan's have been secured and before any of the day's errands have been embarked upon. However you do notice her tall figure is able to pass along Jol's streets, in most cases, without so much as a second look.
To Jeryn's disappointment Jol's library is poorly stalked. Its librarian is as Jolvial as the rest of the town, her eyes rarely leave the wizard's back least he make off with some of her volumes. Despite the library's poor state, Jeryn finds there is enough reference material to put together some magical research even if much of it is dated and of poorly maintained second hand quality. Were there more time these aids might prove useful in his endeavours. Some historical texts written in Skaldic runes prove interesting revealing a proud history of various Ulfen warrior's and their heroic deeds, the most spectacular of which is the defeat a linnorm worm in single combat. Few have the privilege of such a confirmed feat. Those who have succeeded have been hailed as kings without question and indeed all current reigning kings in the Nolands have won such contests thus it is said that these are the domains of the Linnorm Kings. Of less interest, yet somehow just as relevant, one reference lists hundreds of recorded duels between Ulfen of just about every caste and class with the names of those defeated marked with the rune for Thrall followed by a start and end date.
Ameiko smirks devilishly. Rennyn's gift of the enchanted hat presents the Tian with many ideas and, once out of sight of Jol's walls she discretely uses the hat to try on various disguises. She immediately enlarges her breasts, just to see what they would be like, What?! A girl can't experiment? and after various alterations to other parts of her body, settles on something more to her original size. With a mirror glued to her hand she embarks on a long period of experimentations altering her hair's color, length and style just about every few minutes trying to find one that fits. By lunch time Ameiko has several favourites but now her clothes are not right. By midday Ameiko at last settles upon long red hair, hazel eyes, a pair of eye glasses with frames made from darkly stained animal bones and a form fitted dress; a striking look with fairly nerdy accents all tying into her cover.
The road north out of Jol is like the city it leaves behind; inhospitable toward travelers and badly in need of repair. The caravan's pace slows as it avoids large gashes formed by erosion in the road while its riders endure rough jarring from the unavoidable ruts and dips. Those riding in Sandru's caravans grow irritable and were it not for Ameiko's modeling of outfits, hair styles and body types the day would have been intolerable.
As evening creeps closer and the chill air draws your cloaks nearer the group has only made it as far as Tomgruv. A backwater hole in the ground, this small town is home to (roughly 1,400) farmers, herders and die hard miners working what remains of a once prosperous copper mine. The people here are friendly enough (compared to Jol) yet still keep to themselves. A young stable hand of no more than 16 takes it upon himself to warn the group to be on the lookout for kobolds. The young man's eyes twitch in Fenra's direction, stealing furtive glances of the oracle as he recounts the source of the kobold nuisance in Tomgruv. Everyone here knows of them. They's taken up somewhere within the old mine. No one knows exactly where. The youth runs strong fingers through a thick mane of blonde hair, We're just simple farmers here. We don't have the ways to rout them out proper like.
The stable hand's story echoes true with the inn keepers account, and just about everyone else for that matter; it seems to be the only item of interest to speak of. Each resident has their own two coppers worth to add and a common picture emerges. The problem has been around for years, ever since the old copper mine gave out. Kobolds emerge from the mines, ravage crops and livestock then disappear whence they came. Tomgruv's residents have appealed to Jol for assistance yet nothing has come out of these requests and the locals have become disheartened with Jol's current ruler.
Throughout the evening quiet hints are dropped in Sandru's ear that perhaps the caravan's well equipped escort could be of some assistance, that is if he'd be willing to extend his stay. The inn keeper offers reasonable rates to try and further this end and in sympathy for Sandru's cargo of turnips.
Rennyn watches Ameiko's experimentation with the magical hat, but doesn't say much other than reminding her that, Closer to your true form the better. Clothes included. Every detail that differs between illusion and reality gives a chance to tip someone off. If someone sees the illusion for what it is it may make matters worse than no disguise at all.
Draeven says even less, only pointing out in his straight forward style when she augments her assets, That would be a dead giveaway should someone "sample the wares" as it were.
Rennyn listens sympathetically to the issue with kobolds but weighs the risks of getting involved against the need to get Ameiko to Minkai safely and as soon as possible...
Kobolds. Just as bad as goblins.
Fenra enjoys watching Ameiko experiment and makes a few suggestions just for interests sake to pass the time but agrees with Rennyn. As much fun as it is to play you should probably leave your hair the same length and your body the same shape. Just change your hair and eye colour to something fairly bland and adjust your features and skin tone enough so that you don't look Tian. I know it's hard for you to blend in but you don't really want to stand out with flaming red hair!
Fenra has sympathy for the villagers but looks to Rennyn and more importantly Ameiko as to whether a Kobold chasing delay is in the cards.
Fenra enjoys watching Ameiko experiment and makes a few suggestions, just for interests sake to pass the time, but agrees with Rennyn. As much fun as it is to play you should probably leave your hair the same length and your body the same shape. Just change your hair and eye colour to something fairly bland and adjust your features and skin tone enough so that you don't look Tian. I know it's hard for you to blend in but you don't really want to stand out with flaming red hair!
Fenra has sympathy for the villagers but looks to Rennyn and more importantly Ameiko as to whether a Kobold chasing delay is in the cards.
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Jol (Map) | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
Happy to have entertained, if only to prove there is still bard in her blood, Ameiko heeds her friends advice. With a wink in Fenra's direction (yes they are a little bigger), she tones down the color of her hair to a rich burgundy and keeps her curves close to her original figure. She keeps the glasses as well as the lenses help to distort the size of her now hazel eyes. Ameiko holds on to the dress as the tight leathers don't seem very academic in her opinion.
Sandru reads the apprehension in Rennyn's eyes regarding Tomgruv's kobold problem and politely declines, I'm afraid my friend, we've not come this way to tussle with some of your kobolds. But we'd be happy to share a few pointers with you! Sandru's offer comes with a raised glance in Draeven's direction. As the party's former woodsman, Draeven's knowledge might be of interest. The innkeeper does his best to conceal his disappointment by turning his back and resumes his duties. As word spreads of yet another the group passing on Tomgruv's problem, the group is left to their own devices.
At some point during your interactions with the innkeeper, Ameiko's body language freezes and the Tian stares off into the distance for nearly ten seconds. Snapping out of it, she put on her cutest smile and playfully tilts her head to the side.
Once safely within the privacy of your rooms Ameiko explains, Sorry, that was Hadrian. He's completed listing my estates and should know more later in the week. It has been 36 hours since Ameiko sent her message. She'd employed the services of one of Jol's followers of Abadar. Calling upon his god, the cleric channeled his faith into a spell for the Tian to use and she'd contacted her family's advocate in Magnimar from the privacy of a small cubical. The whole process took no more than a few minutes and with favorable beginnings.
From the time you depart Brinewall and crossed the border into the Nolands, your meditations continually bring you the image of crows and or their troublesome cawing. Sure enough, outside Jol the ubiquitous ravens begin shadowing the caravan in the hope of finding scraps to eat. Yet, despite this innocent nature, something about their numbers feels ominous to you.
If you insist on a dress then it should be a real dress. And many Pathfinders would disagree that academics cannot wear armor. Or you could drop the "academic" portion of the "academic assistant" as I suggested a few days ago.
I thought we were out to help those in need. What, those in need halfway around the world rate, but these folk don't?
Koya smiles kindly in the big man's direction. In a polite, quiet tone she tries to explain, This world is full of people in need Draeven. We can't help everyone. Now, should these creatures emerge while we are here, the old woman nods in the affirmative, I will take up my knives beside you. Until then, we are lying low.
Ameiko adds, We heard things in Jol as well. Things we could have acted upon but didn't. It's different here because this is a smaller place, more intimate. That makes moving on harder.
Let's not forget, Tomgruv has dealt with this for a long time, Koya places a reassuring hand on a rippling green arm, they will manage.
Draeven stares stone faced at the two women as they "explain" things to him. They talk to me like I am a child.
He responds in an equally calm tone, You say "dealt" and "manage" but I think you should have said "suffered" and "continue to do so". The big man stands, But whatever you need to sleep at night. If you will excuse me, I think I will turn in early tonight. Big day of guarding turnips ahead tomorrow.
Rennyn feels a pang of guilt as he listens to Draeven speak but waits to see how the others respond.
Realizing she'd insulted Draeven the old woman's chest tightens and suddenly she looks more drained than usual. I didn't... But the damage is done and a pale faced Koya, wise enough to know she cannot undue the past, excuses herself less her intentions turn others away from her.
Sandru, Ameiko and Kenan remain quiet, stoically nursing an ale before retiring themselves for the night - like the big guy said, tomorrow'll be a long day of turnips and potholes. The rooms are spartan but comfortable and a restful sleep is had by all.
...
In the early hours of dawn excited cries and rapidly spoken words rouse those of you who are light sleepers. Down in the foyer several men crowd around the young stable hand. The youth's eyes are wild with affects of that familiar rush you've all experienced after a battle and soon a tale unfolds. Three kobolds braved a raid on an outbuilding shortly before he was to begin his morning chores. The brave youth had seized a pitchfork and quickly impaled one of the creatures. Its two companions turned to avenge their comrade but the stable hand was quick. Ducking sling shots and spearheads he darted into the barn grabbing whatever he could to throw at his pursuers. When his hand closed upon an axe the kobold's spears lined the barn wall behind him and the now newly initiated young man savaged the two reptiles.
Before your eyes the youth's harrowing tale transforms the gathered men and a group of Tomgruv's citizens depart the inn inspired with a new confidence.
As the group disperses Ameiko appears amidst you, her hand raised in a quiet cautioning, Let them. Such a heroic deed will serve to draw attention away from us. Within an hour of our departure, no one here will remember a group of heavily armed turnip runners.
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome
Quietly the caravan pushed on from Tomgruv towards the delivery of their precious cargo. Located fifty miles to the north, Solskinn is skald for Sunshine. Unfortunately the trail leading out of Tomgruv lacks such optimism. While it is not as bad as that outside of Jol but it is bad enough. Shortly after midday the axle of the turnip cart brakes leaving the cart teetering at a dreadful angle and threatening to spill the load. The caravan draws to a halt and Sandru assesses the damage.
Blasted thing! Snapped just before the flange. The caravaneer rises from his inspection and claws a calloused hand over his hair. Shaking his head his turns to Rennyn and the group, It can't continue in this state and we've still got twenty and seven to go before we reach Solskinn. Sandru's eyes scan the surrounding trees, We could make a temporary axle, hew a a tree of suitable size. I've got the tools to do it, it's just a matter of time.
As the group disperses Ameiko appears amidst you, her hand raised in a quiet cautioning, Let them. Such a heroic deed will serve to draw attention away from us. Within an hour of our departure, no one here will remember a group of heavily armed turnip runners.
Glorious, Draeven deadpans before gathering up his gear and heading out to the wagons.
Not like we have much choice. Let's be quick about it.
Draeven hops down wordlessly, pulling out his ax as he heads for the tree line in search of a suitable tree to fell.
Fenra helps in whatever way she can, whether its unloading the cart or helping Sandru remove the broken part, she is not afraid to get her hands dirty. As a frequent traveller with Sandru and Koya she knows her way around a breakdown.
As Draeven hunts for a tree, Rennyn watches carefully for signs of danger as he pulls a turnip from the wagon, peels the skin and slices off a chunk for himself. If we can't get it fixed in a timely fashion we may just have to abandon it.
He scans the area for suitability for an overnight stay. If we left it here, how long would it take to get to Solskinn and back with a replacement wagon Sandru? Assuming it is even worth the trouble.
Draeven finds a tree and begins hacking expertly at the trunk, making short work of it with a few well placed strokes. As the crashing of the falling tree fades he stops and listens carefully. Inhaling deeply though his nostrils, something on the wind catches his attention.
Slipping his ax into its belt loop, he draws out his newly acquired sword and holds it at the ready. The blade is enormous, nigh on six feet in length, and has a slight waviness to the edge. The steel is blackened with copper veins etched into the length of it.
Over his shoulder he calls out the others, Ready the flasks. I smell troll.
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome| Encounter Map
The sound of Sandru's tools soon fills the air and the caravaneer sets to work. The job is laborious: uncoupling the horse, jacking up the cart, securing the load against any further shifting and hammering out the broken axle. His best estimate to complete the job, with help from the group, is two hours - four if Desna laughs at his efforts.
The work is interrupted however with Draeven's call of warning. As you all take a moment to check the surroundings it seems the air does indeed seem to have changed. A foul odor drifts upon the air quite separate from the usual scents associated with the caravan's draft horses.
To Draeven's ears comes the low thud of heavy footsteps and the violent cracking of tree branches followed shortly by the dark movement of two massive creatures coming your way.
TROLL CR 5 large humanoid (giant)
Init +2; scent; Perception +8
DEFENSE
AC 16, touch 11, flat-footed 14; (+2 Dex, +5 natural, –1 size)
#1 hp 63
#2 hp 63
Fort +11, Ref +4, Will +3
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee bite +8 (1d8+5), 2 claws +8 (1d6+5) Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
Special Attacks rend (2 claws, 1d6+7)
STATISTICS
Str 21, Dex 14, Con 23, Int 6, Wis 9, Cha 6
Base Atk +4; CMB +10; CMD 22
Feats Intimidating Prowess, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception)
Skills Intimidate +9, Perception +8
Draeven's warning call spurs Fenra to action. She grabs her weapon and immediately calls Desna to her defense.
Draeven begins to move back towards the wagons...
Rennyn turns at Draeven's call of warning and immediately moves to assist him...
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome| Encounter Map
Being large, the trolls are not too hard to spot and by the time Draeven is once again within sight of his companions , the big man knows the threat to be almost 200ft away to the northwest and coming straight for the caravan.
TROLL CR 5 large humanoid (giant)
Init +2; scent; Perception +8
DEFENSE
AC 16, touch 11, flat-footed 14; (+2 Dex, +5 natural, –1 size)
#1 hp 63 @AN36
#2 hp 63 @AK33
(6d8+36); regeneration 5 (acid or fire)
Fort +11, Ref +4, Will +3
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee bite +8 (1d8+5), 2 claws +8 (1d6+5) Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
Special Attacks rend (2 claws, 1d6+7)
STATISTICS
Str 21, Dex 14, Con 23, Int 6, Wis 9, Cha 6
Base Atk +4; CMB +10; CMD 22
Feats Intimidating Prowess, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception)
Skills Intimidate +9, Perception +8
Draeven begins to move back towards the wagons sword in hand.
Rennyn turns at Draeven's call of warning and immediately spies the lumbering trolls in the distance. Having time before the trolls close, he unslings his bow and sends an arrow soaring towards the one in the lead...
...the arrow sprouting from the things neck, blood pumping from the wound. The accuracy of the shot surprises even Rennyn. Hmph. All that practice as a youngling didn't go to complete waste after all, he mutters while looking his bow over as if seeing it again for the first time in a long while.
He just as quickly ends his reminiscing before attempting to coordinate the defense of the caravan whilst staying close to Ameiko. Jeryn, force missiles at range and then burning hands when they get close. Kenan, don't forget you have some flaming arrows. Ameiko, a song if you would. Something uplifting to bolster our courage. Sandru and Shalelu arrows and flasks of alchemists fire. Koya, a blessing to aid us in the fight would be appreciated. Spivey, try to confuse one if it gets too close.
Land of the Linnorm Kings | Varisia | Tomgruv | Kopparberget | Solskinn | Losthome| Encounter Map
Rennyn's bowstring twangs and in a flash the paladin's arrow speeds through the trees towards the looming danger. Miraculously, the arrow strikes home and one of the lumbering creatures mewes in a dull low pitch.
The wizard's expression turns serious and with a flourish of his staff the air around him shimmers with an unseen arcane force.
Soon Draeven's hulking figure comes into view yet he is still caught between the party and the closing trolls.
The monk, elf and caravaneer ready their weapons. None willing to try to reproduce Rennyn's shot, their eyes focus down range. Koya grins mischievously, and with a wave of her hands produces her holy symbol to the goddess of dreams then begins reciting some hallowed words of blessing upon Kenan.
As the Trolls close in, Ameiko's shamisen streaks into her hand and the Tian hostess pauses momentarily to let inspiration fill her heart. Her bachi glints in the sun and soon strikes a rhythmic cord.
TROLL CR 5 large humanoid (giant)
Init +2; scent; Perception +8
DEFENSE
AC 16, touch 11, flat-footed 14; (+2 Dex, +5 natural, –1 size)
#1 hp 63 @AT38
#2 hp 63-23+5 @AV40
(6d8+36); regeneration 5 (acid or fire)
Fort +11, Ref +4, Will +3
OFFENSE
Speed 30 ft.
Melee bite +8 (1d8+5), 2 claws +8 (1d6+5) Space 10 ft.; Reach 10 ft.
Special Attacks rend (2 claws, 1d6+7)
STATISTICS
Str 21, Dex 14, Con 23, Int 6, Wis 9, Cha 6
Base Atk +4; CMB +10; CMD 22
Feats Intimidating Prowess, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception)
Skills Intimidate +9, Perception +8
Kenan lifts his bow and sends two arrows at the approaching trolls...
...one hitting the same troll Rennyn struck, right in the center of its chest.
Shalelu, not to be left out, sends three arrows of her own arcing through the air...
...sprouting all around Kenan's arrow.
Sandru, knowing the limits of his short bow, holds his fire until the trolls get much closer...
Spivey flits back and forth excitedly waiting for a chance to contribute to the fight.
Rennyn draws another arrow from his quiver, and attempts to replicate his last shot...
...putting another arrow into troll flesh. Pour it on! Let's show these trolls they picked the wrong caravan to pick on!