The Fall of Fairhaven (Inactive)

Game Master Jubal Breakbottle

Fairhaven town map
Encounter Map: Michael Bay ending

Villain stats:
Ymial: AC 25, touch 11, flat-footed 24, CMD 23, Fort +9, Ref +5, Will +2. SR 17. DR 5/magic


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Day 2 mid afternoon

It takes you the better part of the day to escape the desolated forest of the medusa. Along the way Esaul has identified signs of army patrols across your path, and when you occasionally hit overlooks, he has seen some movement across the valley, too.

By mid afternoon, you find some sun peaking through the tree covered valley and some calling birds. You never realized how tense the past experience made you until the tension departed like a heavy sigh. You stop to take a water and snack break.


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Gosh that was close! What are we gonna do? There are patrols everywhere!"


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"Pray for a little luck and break through to Fairhaven? We need to find out the situation there."

The stress of nearly dying, then fleeing, then "sleeping" in a thicket only to have to flee another deadly threat has Devan looking haggard. Arend hovers around him, looking fierce and protective as the Samaritan's leader sways visibly on his feet. We've never faced anything anywhere near this threatening before. We haven't done stellar so far either, though I suppose we haven't outright lost any battles yet either. I just hope the team can keep it together and we can do what needs to be done as a unit. "The rest of you have any other suggestions?"


Male Human Arcanist 3 | HP 23/23 | Arcane Points 1/2 | 1st Lvl Spells 3/5
Stats:
AC 15, T 11, FF 14 | Fort +3 Ref +2 Will +3 | Init +1 | Percep +3

Carter munches contentedly on some crackers. He closes his eyes and sighs. "Ohhhhhh yeah. I love snack breaks."

Responding to Devan, he says, "We go back in time and hire an extremely powerful wizard to hang out with our group. He could teleport all of us to Fairhaven!"


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Not happening! I do have a suggestion, let's rush and get to that city, cause we're heavily outnumbered. We need to rest here, since they have the advantage at night, and we may make a forced march tomorrow to get there faster. I'll try to help Thondrir."


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"Can you tell how far we've come and how far we still need to go, Esaul? Anyone?"


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Certainly, just give me a second so I can learn what I know from the GM."

The hunter walks outside the map and moves to Jubal's ominous place to have a little chat, hopefully returning later with some answers.


Tris sits down heavily on a log, unhooking her canteen from her belt and lifting it to drain half of it in a series of long, thirsty swallows.

When she finally lowers it, she leans her head back against the tree trunk with a thunk.

"We need a better plan for when we next run into a patrol. Gotta show down horn-blowers first. We saw what happens when we don't," she says with a sigh.

"Beyond that, I dunno what we can do about the patrols but just push through, try and go careful, try and go quiet."


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"The problem is their wolves can still howl, and we didn't know that they had horns at first. You're right though of course. If we run into more orc patrols, the horn bearers need to die first."


Warpriest of Angradd | HP 20/27 | Fervor 1/1 | Blessings 2/4
Stats:
AC 26/12t/21ff | Fort +5 Ref +2 Will +5 (+3 vs. spells, SLA, poison) | Init. +1 | Perception +2, 60-ft. Darkvision | CM +8/20

"Ah dinnae 'ave much ta be addin' fer now. We needa find Fairhaven an' right quick, though. Will nae mind splittin' a few orc heads atween 'ere an' there, but ah think tha' be tha best prospect. Soon as Esaul finds a trail fit fer walkin', ah'll be standin' ready ta march fer as long as we need ta."


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

Kel pops a berry into his mouth.

When Devan asks for ideas Kelbows shakes his head, trying to think of a better way forward than the one the Samaritans are discussing.

"Yeah, I'm not sure I see a better choice. We could certainly travel more stealthily...but we've already decided that we don't have the time to move slowly.

Tris, I agree that when we next encounter a patrol we'll want to take out any hornblower as soon as possible...but otherwise I think we keep headin' toward Fairhaven, and pray that Desna keeps watch over our travels."


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"Alright, we're all in agreement it sounds like. No more breaks until we reach Fairhaven. If we encounter orcs, try to avoid them. If we have to fight, kill the hornblowers and wolves first. Desna, Iomedae, Angradd, Erastil and all the good gods, please watch over us!" Devan says, clapping his hands together once and rising back to his feet.

Seems like everyone's ready to move on following Esaul once you are Jubal.


"Cayden too," Tris says in a not-quite-whisper to herself, "cuz we're about to do some stupid shit."


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

You mean after we rest for the night, right?


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

Esau, it's only mid-afternoon, we were just pausing for a snack/rest/talk


After the break, you resume your march. Esaul leads you parallel the Peak’s Wood Path to avoid patrols. It’s slower going but allows you to avoid two patrols who near your path. You finally collapse after twelve hours walking eleven. The Humans can barely see five feet in front of themselves, so you set another quick fireless camp tonight.

Day 3 morning

Another orc patrol awakens you in the morning. Carter has last watch and quietly wakes everyone. Fortunately, your camp is upwind from the large worg’s path. After a tense ten minutes, you quietly break your fast and start moving away from the orc patrol and steadily toward Fairhaven.

Your off trail strategy continues to work, as you carefully avoid two goblin patrols with dire rats and a lizard king patrol. While you believe you could kill the patrols, their signal horns prevent you. The greater good is reaching Fairhaven as soon as possible.

An hour before completing another twelve hour march, Esaul halts you as he notices a concealed campsite. You crouch around Esaul and stare concluding there are about a dozen sleeping forms and one sitting on log near a low fire. The fire gave them away and blinds their Human guard’s nightvision. Leaving Thondrir to wait, you creep forward to discover a camp of mostly women and children. The watch is a teenage boy staring into the fire. Stains mark his spent tears on his dirty face.

Day 3 evening

You heal 3 hp from the previous night’s rest and take two HP of nonlethal damage from the forced march. You start 30 feet from the camp who have not noticed you. There’s no map, because there won’t be combat. Thondrir is 90 feet away waiting for any noise before moving to join you.


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

Esaul lifts his shoulders when he sees the camp, showing he have no idea what is that. He motions for anyone to approach and talk, while he keeps his eyes and ears alert.


Tris finds herself really missing rivers and boats. You can get yourself goin' fast without feeling like every muscle in your leg is seizing up and your lungs are about to explode.

At Esaul's signal, she wheezes thataway, peering through the brush to see the sleeping forms, the poor youth on 'guard'.

She looks to the others wordlessly, and points at Carter and Devan, with an inquiring brow arch and a tip of her head towards the camp.


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

Devan gives Arend a mental command to go fetch Thondrir, as he nods to Tris. The eagle-man goes back to get the dwarf, while the Samaritan's leader steps forward. He motions for the others to stay out of sight for now.

"Hail, the camp!" he calls, when nearing the edge of their firelight. He holds his hands up, palms facing them to show he means no harm, and slowly, very slowly enters the firelight. "I'm with a group of travelers headed for Fairhaven. Who are you all?" he asks the boy-guard with a kindly smile.


The boy startles and nearly falls off the seat while trying to stand. He eventually manages to pull a longspear from the ground bracing toward your charge. "Rahaal? Rahaal? Please wake up."

Within a few seconds, a lady in a flawlessly clean, gold-trimmed white kaftan with a gold key of Abadar hanging prominently around her neck emerges from the shadows on the far side of the camp. Her kaftan, black hair, and walnut brown skin mark her as a Kelishite, as does the fine gold jewelry that adorns her face, arms, ears, and fingers. "I am Rahaal bat Sawai. To whom am I addressing?"


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"My name is Devan Steed, of Steed's Samaritans. I'll call the rest of them forward if you don't object. We're an adventuring company that like to help those in need. We've been heading for Fairhaven to try to help them against the army heading their way," Devan explains. He keeps his hands up and smiles in a friendly manner.


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

As Devan speaks, hope and caution play across her face.

"By Abadar's golden scales!" She turns briefly to face the huddled refugees behind her, "Perhaps your courage has been rewarded." One young boy starts to cry, and his elder sister wraps her arm around his shoulder, running her fingers through his dirty hair.

Facing back toward Devan, and speaking in a clear, sure voice easily heard back as far as Thondrir. "Yes Devan Steed, please, summon your Samaritans. I hope there are a lot of them, if you're truly coming to defeat Ymial's army."

Though clearly exhausted, there's something compelling about her presence. Her confident tone is that of a leader used to being heeded.

As Devan and the others approach, Rahaal walks toward them, keeping a bit of distance between the Samaritans and the refugees. As the Samaritans get close they notice one additional detail about the Kelishite: her eyes appear to be spinning crystals of amber, sapphire, emerald, and gold. "Welcome, Samaritans, to our humble camp. These are the refugees of Fairhaven, or at least the first wave of them. Seeing no help arrive I -- and what little was left of the town's leadership -- decided that evacuation was all that was left to us. Now though..." speaking a bit softer, to the Samaritans but out of earshot of her charges, "Is this all of you? Fairhaven is not large but it has great potential, and produces much breathtaking art and jewelry. I want to believe we can yet save it from destruction, though I confess before the Judge of the Gods that I don't see how it can be done."


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

Devan is visibly disappointed at the news. "Fairhaven has already been abandoned? These few are all that's left? Was there a battle? What can you tell us of Ymial and his army? So far we have battled goblins, orcs, worgs and lizard men."

Meanwhile, assuming the rest of the Samaritans heard the message he waves them forward and mentally calls Arend as well.


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

"There has been no battle yet, thank Abadar. As things stand today it would only be a massacre. What there has been is a devastating earthquake. How much of the history of Fairhaven do you know? It is a town of miners and artists, drawing worth a great wealth of gems and precious metals from the depths of the mountain, and turning them into pieces of great beauty and artistry. It's dark side is that the citizens of Fairhaven have been forced to provide 'tribute'," she spits out the word, "to Goramial, an ancient red dragon, for as long as the town has existed."

She takes a moment to nod to the others, as they arrive, but continues her story.

"When the initial rumblings were felt, more than a month ago, Fairhaven paused their mining for as long as they were able, hoping that the danger of an earthquake would pass and they could begin their work again. Finally it was decided that the risk of reentering the mines was less than the risk of denying Goramial his next tribute. They were wrong."

"Much of the town -- including the strongest and most able bodied, all of those that might otherwise have defended her -- went to work quickly in the mines, trying to make up for lost time. It was then that tragedy struck and all of Fairhaven was torn asunder in a great quake that sealed the entrance to the mines. We tried in vain to clear the entrance but weren't able to. If they are still alive I doubt they will be for long."

She pauses, the exhaustion again showing in her face. "Tell me about yourselves, Samaritans. Give me hope, if you can. I've spent not quite a year in Fairhaven but I've grown fond of her people and I quite appreciate her industry. Are there others, in your tow? Do you have a plan for defeating an army lead by a cruel half-dragon?"


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

Esaul adds in, hoping that maybe keeping it simple she would feel more cheerful, believing it could really be done. "It's simple. We kill the batman half-dragon."


Warpriest of Angradd | HP 20/27 | Fervor 1/1 | Blessings 2/4
Stats:
AC 26/12t/21ff | Fort +5 Ref +2 Will +5 (+3 vs. spells, SLA, poison) | Init. +1 | Perception +2, 60-ft. Darkvision | CM +8/20

"Aye! Straight ferward as it be soundin', that be the sum o' it. Tha Samaritans've been puttin' down beasties an' blighters fearsome 'nuff ta turn yer blood cold. If 'ere be a foe o' dragon an' fiend, ah cannae reckon ah've 'eard o' somethin' more deservin' o' plantin' steel in it's guts."

Thondrir removes his helmet and secures it against his chest in the fold of his left elbow. "Afore we be cuttin' offa head o' some nightmare, might be a wee bit more pressin' to save yer men what got trapped aneath the ground, aye? Pullin' precious from tha earth be honest an' good work. Surely Angradd's blessed yer folk by puttin' us on tha path 'ere."


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

With a sarcastic smile, Rahaal quips to Esaul, "Oh, why didn't I think of doing that?"

Then, a heartbeat later, her voice softens. "No, I'm sorry, please forgive my tone. I can't fault your enthusiasm and am beyond pleased to see people answering Fairhaven's call; this whole 'tribute' system was already an affront to true justice, and war...always costs too much, in lives and prosperity. It's just-- I'm exhausted right now, and I'm afraid I'm not at all made for running through the mountains and sleeping on the ground. I'm not a stranger to battle when needed, but not like this."

At Thondrir's suggestion, she sighs, "I'm not convinced it's possible to rescue them, but I truly hope you're right. Mining and excavation are in no way my area of expertise, hopefully there's a way we missed." Frustration and stress evident on her face, she seems to be replaying things for herself as much as talking to the Samaritans. "I teach the ways of Abadar to people want to listen, helping order and prosperity to grow...and I bring the Judge of the Gods' stern disapproval down upon the unjust, when I have to. Mostly I teach though. If Angradd sent you here, I praise him for it. Angradd and his brother Torag are honorable gods-- and gods who know more about mining and mountains than I do."

"At any rate, I'm remiss. Please join us by our little fire." Unwrapping a small piece of brown paper and pulling out a knife, she says, "I've always believed that -- especially in dire straits -- one should still cherish the exquisite in life. This is the last of the chocolate I brought with me from Absolom. Let me cut you each a piece. If you've never been to the City at the Center of the World, I dare say it's unlikely you've tasted the like of it before, and if you're truly the heroes you say you are, you more than deserve it!"


Tris follows the others into the light of the fire, listening intently to the woman's words and counting the figures of the refugees.

"Where did you think you were headed? These woods are crawling with orc patrols... and worse," she says, plopping down on a log and accepting the offered little brown square with a curious eyebrow. She sniffs at it, licks it.

Not bad.


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

After handing a hunk of chocolate to each of the Samaritans, Rahaal puts one in her own mouth, closing her eyes and savoring the taste. "Mmmmmm. One more reason to get back to Absolom before too long!"

Replying to Tris, she says "We've narrowly managed to avoid the orc patrols so far, though only barely and at a cost to our speed. We're heading toward Highspur, a settlement just over the pass." Rahaal points back in the direction the Samaritans came.


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Better not that way, mam." He lets the wolf smell the chocolate, then bites half of i, and gives the other half to Light. "It's really crowded with patrols. We fought one and in about 20 seconds there were several beside us. Isn't there some better place?"


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

Rahaal, shakes her head. "Do you know of one? We've been avoiding orc patrols for four days now, and we're more than halfway to Highspur. There's risk, yes, but there are no other settlements any closer and I have to assume the patrols can't be thicker that way than they were closer to Fairhaven."


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

Kel grimmaces when he sees Rahaal pointing straight back toward the medusa, imagining what kind of work that monster would make of this crowd of refugees.

"Oh no. Rahaal, there's something else you need to know. We just passed by there; we actually passed Highspur not too long ago. But yesterday we barely avoided a medusa, and it seemed as though she had quite a big range that she hunts within. I don't like the idea of you all going near her domain one bit."


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

A cloud darkens Rahaal's face at word of a medusa in her path. "Cursed spawn of Lamashtu!" She spits as she name's the Mother of Monsters. "How do we avoid that while still avoiding the orc patrol? Unless..." she hesitates, and then turns to face Devan.

"Devan. Your band recently came over the pass from Highspur, and knows how to avoid the medusa. I just came from Fairhaven, know the route back there, and could save you precious time in attempting to save the town. I would never leave my charges unattended, but...would you possibly consider assigning one of your Samaritans to see these refugees safe to Highspur?

"In return, I would offer my strength to the cause of liberating Fairhaven. On my own there was nothing left for me to do there but lead the evacuation...but if you speak truly of your party's might...well, the unjust are on the rise, and I would very much like to lend my hand toward their defeat."


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

"Lady, you misunderstand something. Devan founded the Samaritans but he's not our boss. He can't tell me to take your refugees over to Highspur, but I can offer to do that myself...and I will."

Kelbows looks around at his companions, a bit surprised by the force of his own decision. "I hate to split off when we're close to a great danger, but she makes a good point. Knowing where the medusa's range is, I can probably guarantee these refugees safety better than she can. And I'm the one who suggested we avoid that damned thing instead of trying to kill it, so I bear some responsibility for it being in their path in the first place."

Turning toward Rahaal, he adds, "And your knowledge of Fairhaven -- and of the path back there -- could make a crucial difference as well."

"Don't get too excited though, gang," he smiles at his compatriots, "I'll be heading back after y'all on the way to Fairhaven just as soon as I'm able."


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

Esaul shakes his head. "I don't want to turn this into the Noblest soul contest, Elbows, but I'm asking you to follow along while I take the kids back. There's no risk in me getting lost in the wilderness, and I've got some magic tricks to stop the enemies in case things get ugly, like using some fog, some roots and some arrows. Light can smell the enemies from afar, and I can come back later at a faster rate using my magic, so, do you mind?"


Warpriest of Angradd | HP 20/27 | Fervor 1/1 | Blessings 2/4
Stats:
AC 26/12t/21ff | Fort +5 Ref +2 Will +5 (+3 vs. spells, SLA, poison) | Init. +1 | Perception +2, 60-ft. Darkvision | CM +8/20

If my Sherlock-Fu is not mistaken, Rahaal is replacing Kelbows as gyrfalcon's character and this is a well constructed "out" for said transition.


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

Guilty as charged. More explanation in the discussion thread...


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"I don't know if I'm comfortable with any of you going. However, Elbows has it right, I'm not your boss. Esaul, Kelbows can handle himself. I still think the greater threat is in Fairhaven, and we could use your skills getting there." Devan adds, looking torn.


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Got it, boss. Light could make the kids scared anyway." He simply adds and the deal is done. "Take care, Kel."


Male Human Arcanist 3 | HP 23/23 | Arcane Points 1/2 | 1st Lvl Spells 3/5
Stats:
AC 15, T 11, FF 14 | Fort +3 Ref +2 Will +3 | Init +1 | Percep +3

Carter steps out from the group and bows to the children. "I'll join you Kel. These people might need a bit more manpower to protect them." He gathers up his stuff and turns to face the rest of the group. He salutes all of them one by one. "I'm ready to write my first book about Steed's Samaritans anyway!" I'm so bad at these goodbyes!


Cavalier 1, Brawler 2 | HP 30/32 | challenge 1/1 | martial maneuvers 1/1
stats:
AC 19 T:12 F:17 | F+8 R+6 W+1 | Per+7 | Init+2 | CMD 18

Kel hesitates when Carter volunteers. "That makes me a bit nervous for the mission to Fairhaven, but I sure won't mind having a second seasoned adventurer to share the work of protecting these refugees with...and I think it's clear you'll be a bigger hit with the kids than I will be."


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

Smiling at Carter and Kel, Rahaal says, "You two are true Samaritans indeed. I wish I could say I can compensate you for your good work, but I'm afraid after everything that's happened I no longer have any real funds at my disposal -- or even chocolate, at this point.

"Know you this, Samaritans: While I may not be a member of your honorable-though-bossless band, I give you my word as a cleric of Abadar that you can count on me as your ally. For as long as protecting Fairhaven gives us common cause, I stand ready to fight or die beside you....preferably though, after a decent night's rest."

Sighing, she asks, "Seriously, do any of you really sleep well out here? Travelling to new locales I like. Striking down the unjust and those who would endanger civilization and prosperity, I do because it's needed. Sleeping on rocks? That I could do without."


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

"I will miss you both. Be careful, and if we all live though this we can meet up in Korvosa next spring," Devan says sadly giving both men a hug.


Tris blinks several times at the quick shifting of their little group. But, she tells herself, it won't be forever-- gods willing, at any rate.

She gets to her feet and clasps Kel's burly forearm.

"Cayden watch you and guide you to the best alehouses," she says with a grin. "Drink one for me, and I'll buy you a round next time we meet up."

To Carter, she extends the same gesture, with a friendly smack on the shoulder too. "And you: I expect to be memorialized in your next publication as the best-looking Samaritan! Gods willing, I'll be alive to read about it, too."


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

As the embers fade in the small campfire, Rahaal chats into the night with any Samaritans who're willing to stay up, trying to learn more about who they are, what makes them tick, and how to work well with them. It's clear that (even in trying circumstances) she genuinely enjoys meeting and learning about new people...and that she's motivated to determine how best to work cohesively with the Samaritans.

"Myself," she says, "I'll hold my own in battle if I have to, but at my best I'm a leader and supporter. You can count on me to help you to be your best -- to strike harder and more accurately, to avoid the cruel blows of your foes, and to shine brighter at the gifts you're already blessed with. With Abadar's consent, I have magic that I can bring to bear in a battle, both to protect and to strike. And when I am surrounded by the unjust I know how to call down the Judge of the Gods' stern rebuke, causing foes to hesitate as if in a daze and to cease their unjust actions."

Eventually she heads to her bedroll, sleeping as best she can until dawn. When she hears Carter and Kelbows helping the refugees to get ready to depart, she begrudgingly drags herself from under her blankets. While her white and gold kaftan still looks miraculously fresh, nothing else about her is.

Groaning and growling, she boils herself a small pot of coffee before speaking more than two words to anyone. Still obviously fatigued, she at least starts to meet her new companions' eyes. Knowing that the refugees take some time to get ready to go, she says "I need an hour to commune with Abadar, and then I'll be ready to say my goodbyes and depart."

After the hour passes she opens her eyes from her meditation and sees the refugees starting to shoulder their packs. With a confident, booming tone Rahaal says to the mass of women and children, "Your courage, discipline, and perseverance have served you well so far. You will need to summon them for a while longer, until you make it over the pass to Highspur. Your new guides, Carter and Kel, are good men and very experienced in the wilderness. They will serve you well. Know that, by the Master of the First Vault's golden key, I and these Samaritans will do our best to return peace and prosperity to your community. In the mean time, do not succumb to chaos or despair. Your deliverance is now in your grasp! Pray to whatever gods you hold dear, and then maintain the discipline that has served you well this far, following your new guides to safety."

She then takes a moment to whisper quiet personal messages to several of the children and women. When she is done, the refugees do indeed look braver, more confident, and more ready for the trials ahead.

Rahaal then turns to the remaining Samaritans. "OK. Our turn. Let's make haste back to Fairhaven. I'm anxious to see you work your wonders!"


HP: 10/18 ; Bombs 4/4; Cognatogen 0/1; Summon 5/6; 1st lvl Sum 2/3; 1st lvl Ext 2/2 CLW, CLW
Stats:
AC 16, T 12, FF 14; Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +3; Init +3; Percept +6

Devan is happy to share the Samaritan's history and methods with Rahaal. He seems distracted by the thought of losing two stalwart companions, though. He always feared the day would come when Carter's inherent aversion to danger would overcome his curiosity. Devan couldn't blame him in all honesty. The Samirtan's leader wanted to run and hide himself, but he knew that he couldn't. His dead family was looking down on him, and he had a duty to do as much good as he could in this world before going to join them.

When the morning comes Devan summons Arend and makes ready to go in a stoic silence. He waves sadly to Carter and Kel as they make their way off with the refugees, and says a prayer for their safety to Desna and the other good gods.

"If you know the way, please lead us on Rahaal," Devan suggests. "Or at least direct Thondrir which direction to lead us in."

I say we go back to dwarf scout formation. Thondrir leads us by 40 feet or so, and then the rest of us follow him in a small group with Esual at the lead. Arend will watch the group's rear, from a position slightly off to their flank.


Tris talks with Rahaal as well, explaining her own joining of the Samaritans, although the version she gives Rahaal is a slightly-cleaned-up version that doesn't get into her own misdeeds prior to joining the group.

"Abadar's never been my sort of god," she admits breezily. "Too many rules! But then, that's why I'm off with this band rather than making my way in a city. No offense meant, of course."

Light-hearted words aside, Tris is just as glad to pass out with her blanket wrapped around her for a few hours. This marching through the woods stuff for endless hours is not her idea of a fun time. Needs more taverns and more dicing.

In the morning she stretches out the worst of the kinks from sleeping on hard earth and roots and rocks, and bounces in place on her toes a few times trying to warm up and limber up.

"Aye. Guide this sad sorry flock of unwashed people--" Tris makes an exaggerated show of waving her nose, "--back to your village, so that we can choke the half-dragon on our stench. Good a way as any to kill it, I s'pose."

I'm fine with that formation.


Reference Image Cleric (Herald Caller) 1 | Max HP 9 | AC 14 T:10 F:14 | F+4 R+0 W+5 | Per+6 | Init+0 | CMD 9
skills:
Appraise* +4, Diplomacy +7, Intimidate +4, Knowledge (religion) +4, Perception +4, Profession (Merchant)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +4

Chatting with Tris, around the campfire and following up when they're on the trail, Rahaal replies with a smile, "No offense taken. I am ever grateful that Abadar chose to help us develop and protect the richness of civilization....but I know that Cayden Cailean, while a bit disorderly for my taste, has a good heart and stands against injustice in his own way, even if for somewhat different reasons."

She walks on a bit more in silence and then adds, "By the way, you called Fairhaven my village, but I've only been there about seven months. I've spent the last few years traveling to remote settlements to nurture Abadar’s presence there -- and to help fair commerce, just laws, and the prosperity that follow them to blossom. Fairhaven was in an odd situation even before the earthquake, what with their art-and-mining economy, and the ridiculous 'tribute' Goramial demands. I've been helping a local acolyte to establish Fairhaven’s first temple of Abadar, and working with the local merchant’s guild to establish fair regulations to encourage greater trade. I was just wrapping up my time there when the earthquake happened."

Changing the subject, she exclaims, "What I don't understand is how you bear sleeping on the ground day after day. I love to travel and see new places. Katapesh, Kyonin, Cheliax, Qadira, all have their unique charms, but I want a real bed to at the end of the journey. And if there's a little entertainment available there -- maybe a singer, or a group of players, even a good game of cards -- that much the better! How do you do it?"


Human Hunter 3 | HP 18/23 + 3 NL | Focus 2/3 | TW.Feat: Lookout
Stats:
AC 18(17) / T14(13) / FF14 | Fort +4 Ref +7(6) Will +4 | Init. +5 | Perc.+8 | CM +3/16

"Hmm... Well, we don't live in the wilderness, so this is indeed temporary, but if it's necessary like now, we can live with it. For the greater good and all that noble bla bla bla. But you kinda get used to it, if you avoid thinking it as a real problem."


HP 16/21 +3NL | Spirit: Frog! | AC 17/13/14 | Fort +5 Ref +6 Will +2 | Init. +3 | Perc. +5 | CM +5(4)/18(17)

Light howls softly, unable to be understood by the common folk, but maybe his race would know what he meant...

Wolfish:
"Five Hundredth is MINE!"

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