'Nice to have people along, I don't have to entertain my brother constantly.' Smiling to himself as the ride through the rain, listening to the others talk, Iradyiel chokes back a laugh when Dhavik declares "I’ve always liked being talked about as if I’m not standing right here. " After Kunala asks what he means about numbers, Iradyiel turns and smiles, "Well to be honest Dhavik, you are on a horse, not standing, so this really doesn't count."
When they get to the cave, Iradiel dismounts and follows suit, unsaddling his mare and drops the saddle beside Kunala's. Turning to the others, he nods out of the cave. "I'll take a look around, try and get a feel for the area. Maybe I'll be able to bring back supper." Dropping his pack and stringing the warbow he heads out of the cave making a wide loop around the perimeter.
Caitir scouts around the cave, comforted slightly by the fact that the site appeared to be a common camping site as she eavesdrops on the kobolds conversation - fluent in their language.
"We should be safe I think - at least from the kobolds tonight. They don't trust us either, and are appointing a watch to ensure we don't attack them" Caitir responds with a wry smile. "I can't say I'm too upset with that arrangement, a bit of healthy paranoia on both sides might reduce the chances of being stabbed in the back. Good news all around" she finishes in an amused tone.
The kobolds push their baskets of radishes towards the back of the “cave” area, wedging them tight to be out of the way. Two of the kobolds sit in front of the baskets guarding their goods, while the other two curl up going to sleep.
Turning to Kunala, Dhavik shrugs; “I question the gold spent on building that fort then letting it go to waste, then to later give it away to become a trading post… Seems odd the sudden interest in this area once again. Is it worth all of the work if those who sit on a throne suddenly become uninterested again…” Dhavik finishes with unloading his horse and places the belongings out of the rain. “Going to get some sleep if we are going to take middle watch.” Dhavik leans against his saddlebags and uses his cloak as a makeshift blanket. Falchion by his side at the ready.
Iradyiel heads back out of the cave area to take a look around. Because of the rain that has been coming down, everything is soggy and muddy. Due to the rain, you do not see much wildlife about. You see a few birds here and there pecking at a worm that has surfaced, you also see a lizard scurry off as you step closer towards it. You see a few more things about, but nothing that would provide much of a meal, let alone the five in your group plus possibly four kobolds.
Looking around you do not see anything that stands out. Behind you, you do see the forest you have exited and how far south it stretches. You might get the sense of an overwhelming task ahead of you, or excitement of what is to be discovered in these lands. As you are standing there looking, your eyes fall on the muddy grass and see a few paw prints. Nothing as large as the bear paw prints you saw around the claw marks on the tree, but enough to take notice.
...
Get along in the wild. Move up to half your overland speed while hunting and foraging (no food or water supplies needed). You can provide food and water for one other person for every 2 points by which your check result exceeds 10.
Once returned to the group, Iradyiel sees Dhavik crashed on his saddlebags, "Not a bad Idea, May as well get some shut eye." He drops his weapons near his saddle and begins to take off his backpack, "The rain has sent everything to ground, I did see a few paw prints, nothing as large as the claw marks on the trees we found." He drops the pack beside his saddle, "I didn't realize how large the forest really was, it continues south as far as the eye can see." Untying his bedroll from the pack, he asks "Mirana, would you wake me up after your watch? I'm assuming were using our regular rotation on watch." Looking over at the Kobalds, smiling, "Looks like the mistrust is mutual." He then lays out the bedroll, using his saddle as a pillow, begins to try and get some rest.
While Caitir scouts the cave, Kunala begins gathering some the dry leaves, as kindling for a fire, smiling at Caitir's observation, "Yes, a little paranoia can be healthy. Maybe later we can see what we can do to ease some of the tension."
Turning to Dhavic as he gathers. "Your right, it doesn't make much sense. The trading post was a nice fort at one point in time. I'd like to repair the catapults at some point in time." Placing the leaves in a central location, he begins to gather a few rocks to make a fire ring, continuing the conversation. "As for the 'thrones interest' hopefully we can establish the area enough that it grows beyond the need from outside help."
He then moves outside the mouth of the cave and begins to look for some wood dry enough to start on fire, Once he has a small fire lit, he will set his pack down beside his saddle and fish out some of the rations he has. Pulling out a few strips of the beef jerky, he asks Caitir, "Would you explain to the kobolds what the jerky is?" sorting out five strips, he walks over to the Kobolds, holding out four of the strips in his right hand, offering it to them, biting a piece off of the fifth piece in front of them, smiling while he chews, "You fellows want some jerky? It's dried cow, but it's good."
Caitir finishes giving the cave a bit of a brief inspection, but nothing detailed. It didnt seem to be regularly used by other creatures, and while the paw prints outside were concerning, it was unlikely that they would meet trouble with kobolds and her friends nearby - most creatures would not seek an active challenge.
Caitir returns to the cave, initially nodding at Kunala's request, before frowning a little "Why don't I teach you the words you need to say, and then I can translate for you? That way you can learn a couple of words, and maybe we get more respect from the kobolds in attempting to speak to them in their preferred language."
'That's a great idea!' Smiling Kunala nods, "That's a great idea!" Showing her the jerky, "It just beef jerky with a few spices, what should I say?"
Caitir coaches Kunala on what to say, drawing the words first on a page and underlining parts of them so Kunala could see how they were written, and pronounced, giving him pointers not just on what to say, but also how to read some of the language.
'Excellent!' Accepting the paper from Caitir, Kunala studies it for a moment, making a couple mental notes, He approaches the Kobolds.
sorting out five strips, he walks over to the Kobolds, holding out four of the strips in his right hand, offering it to them, biting a piece off of the fifth piece in front of them, smiling while he chews, "You fellows want some jerky? It's dried cow, but it's good."
Trying to speak in draconic,
"Cow meat good"
Laying on the ground with shut eyes, Dhavic responds to Kunala; “If those catapults would be repaired it would make it the strongest fortification in the region. I would love to see the bandits faces the first time they tried to come to the post after getting them fixed and some logs or bulders are being hurled at them” Dhavic begins to laugh a little. “On that note, wake me up for second watch.”
As time goes on, Caitir gives Kunala a brief lesson on Draconic. The two Kobolds that are awake are enjoying Kunala’s attempt at learning their language and snicker from time to time when he mispronounces a word, causing a completely different phrase.
When they are offered the jerky, only one of the Kobolds moves forward with a questioning look. When Kunala eats a piece off of what he is offering the Kobold moves forward and tries a piece. The Kobold clearly enjoys the meat and quickly takes the four pieces and hands two of them to the other kobold on watch.
The one who took the piece holds it up and nods in approval
“good”
The two of them go back to their watch, but they seem less watchful of the two of you.
'That went well.' Smiling as the Kobolds accept the jerky, Kunala turns to Caitir, "Well, I think that went well." He lifts his piece of jerky, "I apologize, I didn't even think to offer you any." Realizing that Iradyiel returned empty handed, he shrugs. "It looks like were eating rations anyway." Moving past the fire, "At least it's not a cold camp."
He goes to the edge of the cave watching it rain for a few movoents eating the rest of his jerky. Yawning, he turns to Mirana and Caitir, "Ladies, have a good evening, I believe I'll turn in."
'It must be that time.' Feeling Iradyiel nudge his shoulder with his boot, Kunala waves him off, "I'm up, I'm up!" Standing and yawning, he quickly uses prestidgitation to straighten out his clothing and hair. Moving over to where the half orc is sleeping he reaches down shaking the mans shoulder. "Time for watch, Dhavik." Hearing Iradyiel chuckle, Kunala turns as Iradyel lays down, telling him, "Don't talk too much, we don't want him to run off into the prairie screaming." Laughing at his brothers comment, Kunala waives, and tells him, "Not to worry."
Seeing Dhavik rouse, Kunala points to him and casts 'message' whispering through the connection. "With your permission Dhavic I will use a simple spell so we can talk without waking the others." Moving to the edge of the cave, he casts 'Dancing Lights' and sends them out watching to see if there is anything outside of the cave that they should worry about.
Moving back further under the cave, he puts another small branch on the fire, Using 'Message' he asks Dhavik. "So how did you come to be with Kesten?"
Caitir is surprised, but encouraged by Kunala's first attempt. It was a bit of a gamble to offer the kobolds their own food - Caitir hadn't really thought to ask them herself, worried about a negative reaction - but she was extremely pleased that everything had worked out in the end. It was also good to see that kobolds appreciating the attempt being made to learn their language.
They are going to find it much harder to double cross us down the road the friendlier we are with them. People find it hard to stab friends in the back" she reflects idly, before nudging Marana, indicating that she would take the first watch over her.
As Kunala reaches down and shakes Dhavik’s shoulder he quickly opens his eyes, grabs his blade and looks around. Seeing that the campsite is calm, Dhavik sets his blade down, rubs his eyes, and takes a long pull from his waterskin. When Kunala ask about casting message he nods.
“So how did you come to be with Kesten?” “I joined in Restov. I overheard that there was going to be a group coming down to protect a trading post from some bandits. Figured it would be easy coin. Turns out it isn’t going as easy as I figured.”
He starts to gather his equipment and weapon and heads to the opening of the cave; “I am going to look out and see if there is anything noteworthy.” He heads out into the darkness of the night without a torch or a lantern.
A couple hours pass by no return of Dhavik. If Kunala goes to the opening of the cave your eyes have a hard time adjusting with the glow of the campfire behind you. The moonlight does give enough light to see slight shapes in the distance; trees, bushes, nocturnal animals out looking for a meal. But no Dhavik.
Another hour passes when Dhavik returns; “Nothing out there worth mentioning. Nothing looks to be hunting us or even knows we are here.” Dhavik begins to get his gear together and set up as if he is going to sleep shortly. “We should get the nest ones up and get to sleep. If they weren’t lying, we should arrive tomorrow.”
The rest of the night goes without anything threatening the cave. The kobolds switch their watch as needed so they can be fully rested but still keeping two of them on watch.
Morning comes and the Kobolds are munching on their radishes and bits of the jerky that they had left over from the evening before. Dhavik is up and has his horse saddled and his bags attached.
One of the kobolds pulls Caitir around the cave and points east.
“Don’t go that way. Hamirdaar lives there. Go through forest or around.”
Hamirdaar roughly translates to Spider Queen or Queen of the Spiders
Dhavik approaches the rest of the party; “Once you are ready we can set out. The fog might slow us, but should rise soon enough.”
Having been informed by Kunala that Caitir had taken the first watch, Iradyiel returns to his bedroll after he woke Marana when his was over. Tossing and turning for the last couple of hours, he rises with the dawn. Scratching and streching he nods to his friend then waves to the two kobolds and wanders outside the cave. Returning shortly with a stick he stirs the ashes of the fire, standing in the smoke, enjoying the smell of the burning wood. Smiling at Mirana he shrugs, "Nothing quite like the smell of campfire smoke."
Staying near the fire, he enjoys the quiet of the still slumbering camp. Once everyone is awake, he begins packing his rucksack, then as the others are still moving about, he sees to the horses. Returning from saddling the horses he nods in aggreement with Dhavik, smiling and winking. "Don't worry about the fog Dhavik, all of Kunala's hot air will make it evaporate in no time."
Noting the Kobold chittering and pointing he asks Caitir, "what was that all about?"
Caitir sucks in the cool morning air for a moment, stretching before she gives the kobolds a thoughtful nod as she thinks for a moment after their latest comment. Queen of the Spiders did sound scary, but they would have to handle it sooner or later anyway.
"The kobolds just advised that there is a Spider Queen in an east direction. They want us to go through the forest or go around. I'm tempted to check it out and eliminate the spider itself - there are a lot of us after all - but I'm not sure if its beyond our abilities yet. Thoughts?"
'Joined in Restov. Nodding, "I was in Restov as well, Iradyiel met up with me when it was time to leave." Kunala smiles, "Sorry, the coin wasn't as easy as you figured. Hopefully it will be shortly. I would like to see the trading post become a location that will be profitable for all of us."
As Dhavik announces that he was going out of the cave, Kunala releases the dancing light so as not to interfere with the half orcs night vision. Please to see Dhavik's eventual return he nods, "Good, I will wake Iradiel and tell him."
Rousing shortly after his brother, Kunala excuses himself, from the cave, using prestidigitation to help with his morning ablutions. As he returns to the cave he checks on the horses, and gives them more water. He then neatly packs his gear, and eats a little dried meat and fruit for breakfast.
Rolling his eyes at Iradyiels comment, he focuses on Caitir's explanation. Thinking for a moment. "We should find out more details about the spider. I agree we should eliminate it, but I don't think the kobolds will be happy if we delay getting their magical item back. Especially if we expect them to help kill the spider. Maybe we should deal with it afterwards?"
Mirana listens quietly to both points of view , reflecting on both arguments before raising her hands slightly, palms up. "We could ask the kobolds for more details about the spider I guess, although I don't know how much more details we might get. I don't mind us attacking the spider after handling the mite problem, but I doubt the kobolds will be keen to help us kill it regardless - if memory serves it was not part of the deal. Something to think about though, is that it might be faster going right through its territory and kill it, then the time we spend going around its territory. We could try and use that as a selling point to deal with it now under the excuse that it could possibly be a faster route to them eventually getting the item back."
[i]True, how much detail can they give us? That's a good idea, sell it as 'quicker'[/ii] Nodding in aggreement with Mirana, Kunala turns to Caitir, "That's not a bad idea. If you want to run the idea past them, I will listen to try and pick up more of the language."
He turns to his brother asking, "Iradiel, would you put out gear on the mounts so were ready to go?" As Irayiel gathers the gear to take to the horses, Kunala prepares to follow Caitir to speak with the kobolds.
Dhavik strugs; “You never know what you are getting into. It is a gamble each time you go out. It is nice to get out, better than being stuck in the tent besides the stables back at the trading post.”
Iradyiel’s comment of Kunala’s hot air will make it evaporate about the fog gets a chuckle from Dhavik. “You two are funny ya know, a good bit of entertainment in the wilderness. Seems like we might be out here for a while, so don’t use up all your good digs yet.”
As the conversation about the ‘Spider Queen’ continues, Dhavik turns from securing everything onto his horse; “Spider queen? Ha, what is a monstrous spider to a three-foot creature? I’m with Mirana, take care of this mite situation then we need to get to the bandit camp. Hopefully we will still catch them off guard.”
Dhavik climbs upon his horse whistles to get the kobolds attention and with a wave of his hand “Lead on” The kobolds don’t understand the language he is speaking, but anyone can pick up on his nonverbals.
As the group sets out the sun rises and so does the temperature. As the fog lifts the others can see what Iradiel saw the night before, just how large this forest stretches across the land.
From where you currently are D10 on the map, you believe that it is about a two day journey west to arrive at to the area where Bokken spoke about the Fangberries he was seeking.
The kobolds lead on for several hours as the rolling hills pass under hoof and foot. Unless the group decides to stop for any reason, the Kobolds press on. Only stopping for water, food, or to relieve themselves. As the day passes, the sun even begins to set as you see off in the distance a large object.
Loming over all the hills is a graying hulk of a sycamore tree. The 100-foot tall tree would be reached before nightfall.
Wish a slight whistle; “That is one big tree. They said the lived in the three? Around it?” Dhavik speaks up as soon as the tree comes within view.
The kobolds stop the group and the leader steps up and begins speaking. As he does he motions with his hands towards the ground and makes a circle with his two hands. He makes a digging or a crawling motion followed by a swinging motion with his hand as if it was clutched with a weapon.
“There is mite layer. Hole in ground at bottom. You crawl in, kill mites, and get back sacred statue!”
Nodding in agreement with Dhavik, Kunala stirs the fire, then uses prestidigitation to remove the smell of smoke from his clothes. "That's true, there is a certain unpredictability to soldiering." He looks off into the darkness for a moment. As for the tents, hopefully when we get rid of the bandits and tame this wilderness a little, the money will be available to build a real bunkhouse. Heck I'd like to see enough people to build a town."
'What is a monstrous spider to a three-foot creature?' Smiling at Dhavik's question, Kunala quips, "Still too big of a spider as far as I'm Iradiel will be concerned, he's afraid of spiders." Calling just loud enough everyone can hear. "Isn't that right Iradiel?" Looking back to Mirana. " So mites, bandits, spiders and fangberries." gesturing towards their 'three foot' companions. "And at some point we return them to their chief as conquering hero's"
Moving to the horses as the kobolds lead out, Kunala pats the mare's neck, talking to her gently as he mounts. Once the get moving he takes the opportunity to continue teaching her how to neck reign, so he will be able to guide her one handed. When the see the huge tree, he gives an appreciative smile at Dhavik's whistle. "So that's where they live! Impressive!" Waiting for the translation, Kunala asks, "Should we camp here and press the assault in the morning, or should we do this tonight?"
Smiling at Dhavik's comment, Iradyiel, chuckles, "No fear of that, Kunala talks enough that there will always be fuel for sarcasm." He turns and winks at his brother, "Yeah, I'll sort the gear. You and the others sort out where were going, I don't mind leading but I don't want to pick." He then carries the packs over to the saddled mares, tieing, them to the saddle bags.
'A giant spider? Why does it have to be a spider?" As he returns to the group, he shudders slightly at he knowledge of the spider, When Kunala calls to him, he gives a weak smile and shrugs, "Hey it was a whole egg of spiders and I was little. Besides, I may be afraid of spiders, but your afraid of dirt, so I don't want to hear anything."
Seeing the Kobolds heading out, he quickly mounts on the other mare and follows the little lizards, paying close attention to the direction they are going.
Once the see the tree off in the distance, he nods in agreement. "Once the mites are gone, do you think the kobolds will mind if we build a treehouse?"
"Why would anyone be afraid of dirt?" Mirana asks in a puzzled look, wondering if there had been a human custom she had missed during her time in the First World."Is it a reference to earthworms? Or maybe being buried alive?" she continues curiously, raking her brains to try and figure it out.
"Spiders don't bother me too much, never had too much of a fear of them myself, although perhaps meeting a big spider might change that. Its that creepy, unnatural, supernatural stuff that gives me concern. I can make sense of something with ties to nature, or even the First World - but anything without that connection is just sort of...alien to me."
Caitir yawns a little at the discussion. "I'm not scared of much. If it bleeds, I can kill it, and then there isn't much need to be scared of it anymore. I'm a practical sort of girl. Then again, I used to get Mirana into all sorts of dangerous situations so perhaps a reckless approach isn't the greatest thing to have. Still, we had fun" she reflects, thinking back on some good times.
"As for the mites, I...I would prefer that we attack in the morning I think. The later we leave it, the greater the chances we run into some stupid vision or supernatural senses disadvantage. I mean, I'm mostly fine with either option, but thats the preference I have. I'm not really worried about the mites themselves, but I'd rather avoid making things harder for ourselves."
“Build a town? Well if you are going to have a goal why not make it a big one. It’s not my kind of thing, but that could be interesting to watch. People can be such a pain in the arse that it wouldn’t be worth it, especially with so many in a town.”
When the talk comes around assaulting the mite lair Dhavik speaks up; “I am fine either way, but if they have look outs in the tree they are going to see us long before we get there. I don’t see a real way around that. Also, if we camp we won’t have a fire to keep us warm. They would see the light of the fire and smoke for a ways off.”
Looking around you do see that this is still a hilly land, but no natural or manmade shelters in sight. It is still early spring and the winter chill hasn’t fully left.
Just a reminder of what you know about the mites from a K-Nature roll you made back at Bokken’s hut.
Mite: These are small fey creatures that love and thrive in the dark. It is known that because they are fey blooded that they have some natural magical abilities. Also because of their fey blood, normal weapons are not fully effective against them.
Laughing aloud, Iradyiel turns smiling at Mirana then turning to Caitir. "Oh don't get me wrong, Kunala's not afraid to fight anything, especially if he has a plan. But haven't you noticed how worked up he gets over a little disorder? How he uses his magic to clean up any dust or dirt?" He gestures towards his brother's pack, "If you want to mess with him, toss some dirt in his rucksack. "
When the conversation changes to spiders Iradyiel gives a slight shudder. Looking from Caitir to Dhavik. "I don't care for spiders." Shrugging he relaxes as the topic changes to the mites. "As for the mites, the morning is fine, and Dhavik is right, we'll need a cold camp tonight."
'People can be a pain....' smiling at Dhavik's comment, Kunala nods, "true people can be a pain. But it's nice to have family around." He pauses for a moment, then continues. "We left our mom, step dad and siblings in the Narlmarch Woods, we're hoping to make a place they can come too." He turns looking out into the darkness. "When my mother was young she was an actress, she performed in several cities. She moved to the woods to care for me. I always hoped that somehow she could return to the stage. If there was a town...." He falls silent, gives a small smile and shrugs, his eyes damp. He points to the edge of the 'cave' "I'll go check the perimeter." Then casting dancing lights out ahead of himself he turns and walk outside of the cave.
Snorting at his brother's comment, unconsciously dusting his sleeve. "I am not afraid of dirt, I suppose it has it's purposes. I just don't want to wear it." He gives a wry smile. "Besides it's not like the dirt crawls around and climbs under your night shirt." He looks from Iradiel to the others. "When we left New Stevens, I was five and Rad was nine. We took a riverboat from the city down the east Selle River to the lodge." He winks at Iradyiel, "Well the first night we were sleeping in the hold, everyone woke to Rad screaming. He was tearing his night shirt off. Apparently he fell asleep near a spiders egg that hatched that night. The baby spiders were crawling all over him." Giving a smile and a shrug. "when I saw the spiders I grabbed his nightshirt and started slapping them off of him." Raising an eyebrow and nonchalantly cocking his head, "He had dozens of small bites all over his body."
'A cold camp, I guess that's do able.' Standing in his stirrups, holding his hand over his eyes so he can clearly see the tree. "I guess a cold camp it is then. I know a little about Mites." Pausing for a moment, he clears his throat and recites in his best oratory, like a performer reciting a line. "They are small fey creatures that love and thrive in the dark. It is known that because they are fey blooded that they have some natural magical abilities. Also because of their fey blood, normal weapons are not fully effective against them." Pausing, he looks at the others and shrugs. "It's a gift."
"Mirana is the same I think, must be why she washes with Create Water every morning" Caitir remarks cheekily before she turns slightly more serious at the task ahead.
"If the Mites have resistance to normal weaponry, that is going to make things slightly harder, but as long as we dont run into a huge number of them, we should be able to pile through it with our kobold allies...I think. We should test the waters though at least, and see how things go. Cold camp, then attack at first light."
Dhavik nods at the mention of attack at first light; “We need to let them know,” motioning towards the kobolds; “that we won’t be going tonight. And that we won’t be having any fires.” He turns to look around the country side; “It would be best if we could find a spot that we can be out of sight, but also keep somewhat of an eye on that tree…”
As he is looking around he points to a location that is closer towards a tree, but it does fall in elevation just enough that it should hide the horses. “That is probably the spot we want. Iradyiel?”
Taking 10, he would know that the spot Dhavik is pointing out will be as good as any.
It is closer, but should be far enough away to avoid any Mite scouts if there were to be any.
'Why doesn't that suprise me?' Smiling at Caitir's observation about Mirana being like Kunala, Iradyiel nods in agreement with Dhaviks comment about letting the kobolds know he plan. Standing in the saddle, He resists the urge to 'shade his eyes' as he looks towards where Dhavik is pointing. Nodding in agreement, he reins the sorrel mare that direction. "Good call Dhavik, we should be able to crawl to the rim of the hill and observe the tree easily enough."
Taking the high road, Kunala, Ignores the comments about his and Mirana's personal hygiene and answers Caitir, "I think we will be able to deal with the Mites easy enough as long as we are smart." Then smiles and gestures towards Dhavik's falchion, "And we hit really hard."
'That makes sense.' Looking at toward the area Dhavik indicated, Kunala follows his brother and Dhavik toward the grassy depression. 'Not a lot of trees.' Moving toward the north side of the indentation. "I'll set up a picket line over there, the horses can help block any wind coming into camp"
Turning to Caitir, "If you don't mind Caitir, I'd like to go with you when you tell the kobolds what were doing, give me a chance to hear the language more." While waiting to go with Caitir he keeps himself busy setting the picket line, caring for the horses and unloading his gear.
Mirana glances at the tree for a moment, judging the distance between Dhavik's spot and the land, before nodding slightly, passing no comment. The druid was reasonably happy with the decision, even if it didn't seem very defensible. At least the size of their group would be enough to discourage any opportunistic attacks. Shifting slightly, Mirana slips off her horse when they come to a stop, flexing and stretching slightly. She didn't mind riding as a form of travel, but she always preferred walking, as the alternative always made her feel stiff.
Caitir chews her lip for a moment before raising an eyebrow at Kunala's question. "Hey, that works for me. Knock yourself out" she replies in a casual tone before heading over to the kobold group. By now she knew roughly which of them seemed to be speaking on behalf of the group, or at least the one the others looked to for opinions and guidence. The small cues were enough for her to figure out who to direct her remarks to.
'My friends and I don't have darksight, so we are planning on resting for a bit and then attacking at first light. No fires tonight I think, the warmth would be welcome but the light might give us away. We don't know if the mites have or use scouts of their own that we need to be wary off, so its best to be cautious."
The kobolds look anxious to continue moving on towards the mite’s lair. Eagerly chirping and barking as they look at the tree that is within sight. Caitir & Kunala move up to explain and when Caitir is finished a look of disappointment come on a few of the kobolds. Their leader speaks up
“No later than first light, that is when we move on. Mites are dumb, they don’t use scouts. We could sleep under the tree and they wouldn’t know we were there.”
At the last comment of the leader kobold the remaining ones begin to laugh. The leader does nod in agreement to make camp.
As you move to the location that Dhavik pointed out, you all begin to make camp. It seems that even if you wanted to make a fire you would not be able to do so. There are no downed trees or anything to really sustain a fire overnight.
Dhavik speaks up; “I’ll take second watch, and if we are going to get at it early I don’t mind missing out on sleep.” looking between the four of you but settling on Kunala; “What is the plan to attack these mites?”
Smiling at Caitir's enthusiasm, Kunala follows her toward the kobolds and listens carefully trying to memorize the words.
'A pity, it was nice to have someone to talk to.' Nodding when Dhavik announces that he would be on watch with Iradyiel, Kunala, raises an eyebrow at the swordsman's question. "Plan? I've been thinking about it a little. It sounds like were going to have to tunnel in. so I assume Iradyiel would take the lead and I would follow him." Shrugging, "Thought I would ask you to cover the rear for us." He looked to the ladies and back to Dhavik, "Anyone have any ideas?"
"They consider the mites dumb, not smart enough to keep scouts active" Caitir translates for the others, with a skeptical look on her face. I cannot tell if that is actually true though, or just tough talk and bravado. Clearly the mites have some strengths if they are challenging the kobold tribe...I think we should be on guard all the same" she remarks, looking at the tree with a calculating look on her face.
"If we knew all their entry points and blocked them, I'd rather we pour accelerant down the entry point and light a fire, Inelegant maybe, but probably practical>" the rogue continues, before shrugging. "I think it might have to be head on though for this one, frustrating as I am about doing the obvious course of action. If I can get room to flank with someone, anyone, I'll be happy, but that's all I really care about."
Dhavik is going about his business caring for his horse and his belongings for this evenings stay when he hears Caitir say “I’d rather we pour accelerant down the entry point and light a fire.” Dhavik says under his breath; “Note to self, don't piss her off.” He continues looking through a saddlebag and pulls out some dried meat then joins the conversation.
“Though as interesting as seeing a mite run out of the tree on fire and through the field could be... I thought the whole point of helping them is to get some magical statue, or whatever it is, back. I don’t know how easy it will be to go through whatever is in there if we burn it all down.” taking a bite of meat; “What if we label that under ‘if all else fails’?”
Having dropped his gear near Dhavik's, Iradyiel chuckles to himself when he hears the half orc comment about not upsetting Caitir. He smiles, "you've got that right my friend."
Sitting down on his bedroll he starts to check the fletching on his arrows, raising an eyebrow when Dhavik labels the 'burn em all' idea as plan 'B.' Winking at Dhavik, he calls out to Caitir, "I don't think we brought enough oil, but getting a sense of what the kobolds think of the mites, I bet they would think it's a good idea. Hopefully if there is enough room for you to stab one of the little fay in the back, there will be enough room to shoot or swing a falchion."
Caitir offers an amused smile. "I wasn't being entirely serious with my earlier suggestion. I don't think Mirana much likes that strategy either. I'm fine with us walking in the front door and hacking our way though, that strategy is a bit head on for my taste but its simple, and its probably still going to get the job done here I think."
As the conversation continues about the plan for the morning continues, Dhavik nods in agreement; “Iradyiel up front followed by you, Kunala, Caitir then, you, Mirana? I’ll bring up the rear from a possible ambush. I will have my crossbow, but I am not the best shooting into combat. I will try my best not to nick one of you while shooting into the fray.” he gives you all a smile. “Unless there is anything else I am going to get some shut eye. Wake me up at second watch!”
It doesn’t seem like it is too long befoe the half-orc is asleep and letting out a snore every once in a while. The evening passes without much of an issue.
The third watch is an abbreviated one so that you can get an early start towards the mite lair. Those who are up during the third watch give me a Perception check
It is hard to tell because it is quite some distance off, but back where you came from towards the tree line you think you see something move on the ground. It was rather quick, plus the darkness and distance could be playing tricks on you, but you believe you saw something scurry or crawl across the ground before you lost sight of it again.
You have no idea what it could have been, or if it was anything but shadow mind tricks.
It is still early as those who are on third watch wakes the rest of the party. Dark is still covering the land, but dawn is quickly approaching. You will be to the Old Sycamore before the sun begins to rise.
Dhavik stretches and gathers his belongings; “I am only bringing what I need. I know it could be a gamble, but I don’t think we should tie the horses to that tree. I am going to let the horse roam. Wouldn’t want it to be tied down if something were to attack.” Dhavik gathers provisions, straps a backpack on his back, sword on his hip, and crossbow in his hands; “I am ready when you are!”
The Kobold that has been speaking for the group speaks up
“We will show you secret hole to mite lair. You crawl down, kill mites, bring back sacred statue!”
The kobolds chitter between themselves and motion forward towards the tree.
Chuckling at Caitar admitting that she was joking, Kunala nodding in agreement, "Yes, a little too head on, hopefully the mites aren't tougher than the kobolds." Turning to Dhavik, he nods, "Some shut eye is a good Idea, I have third watch and their will be no napping afterwards." Seeing to the horses one more time as he eats a little dried meat, cheese and raisins, Kunala soon turns in.
After being awakened by Iradyiel, Kunala, remembering not to use his dancing lights, tries to keep a keen eye out. At the end of the watch he begins to rouse the others. Nodding in agreement with Dhavik "Traveling light is good idea. I'll put the mares on a loose picket line, If their spooked they will be able to pull it out, but if their just grazing it will be fine." Leaving the saddle and bag where he slept, he hefts his rucksack, "I thought I saw some movement around the tree last night, but I wasn't able to identify anything." nodding to the others, "Ready whenever you are."
Double checking his gear while the others talk, Iradyiel nods, "Yes I think it's time to turn in." Turning to the ladies, "I know Mirana usually takes first watch, but I'll let you two sort that out." He shrugs and smiles. "Just remember to wake me up."
Seeing that Dhavik has been woken also, Iradyiel moves over near him for a moment so they can talk softly. "I know you said you would keep the crossbow ready, but if you'd rather use a longbow I have one I used for hunting." He then moves on, Stomping his feet on the watch to keep them warm, moving in a circular pattern, but lingering on the ridge, watching toward the tree.
After waking Kunala, Iradyiel rest the few more hours. Rising quickly when Kunala wakes him, he stuffs his gear in has bag, grabbing some jerky for breakfast while doing so. Checking his bow strings again, while Kunala runs longer lines for the horses. he nods preparing to move over the hill toward the tree., "Ready to go."
but if you’d rather use a longbow I have one I used for hunting. Dhavik responds; “That would be good. I am about as good of a shot with either, which isn’t saying much. But, if I am only using a bow it would be a quicker reload. Thank you, Iradyiel.”
As Dhavik is readying his horse and hears Kunala speak of a picket line, he chimes in; “That is a better idea than letting them roam free. Do you have enough line?” Pulling off his back pack he frees his rope and pulls out a piton. “I have these if you need them.”
Dhavik sees the Kobolds beginning to move on; “Looks like it is time to move on… damned things better be worth it.”
Smiling Iradyiel tells, Dhavik, "That's why I offered it." He goes to his gear and fetches the bow and one of the quivers of arrows they kept from the bandits. He hands the scabbarded bow to Dhavik, "The bow was made by my father Onello he is a ranger and bow maker." He nods towards Kunala, "My brother is hoping to make a home here so we can send for our parents." Handing the half orc the quiver he shrugs. "The arrows are from the bandits we killed, not very pretty, but they shoot straight."
Watching Kunala use his rope to make the pickets, Iradyiel answers Dhavik, "He uses about twenty-five feet of rope and a stake cut from a branch. I think a piton should rip up as easily as a wooden stake."
Mirana watches with interest as Kunala suggests and assists with setting up a picket line. The tactic was new to her, but she had to admit that it was an excellent idea. She observes quietly as the rest of her companions arm themselves, feeling slightly self conscious over her own lack of martial ability.
"We should probably start our assault relatively soon, unless we want the kobolds to leave us behind. Hopefully this little skirmish goes off without too much of a hitch."
'I wonder if the kobolds get themselves killed if we get to keep the magical item.' Nodding in agreement with Mirna, Iradyiel sets off toward the tree, moving slow and low keeping a keen eye out.
As the near the tree and Locate the 'entrance' he throws up a fist and drops to a crouch. He turns and looks at Caitir, point to his eyes with two fingers he then points to the burrow, indicating if she wants to inspect the entrance as well. He then calmly inspects it for any sort of traps.
After getting the horses staked out, Kunala shoulders his pack and follows Iradyiel too the tree. Drawing his short bow as his brother and Caitir checks the entrance.
Under the cover of night, the party is led by the small gang of kobolds to the mite lair. Iradyiel is taking his time scouting ahead as you move forward. But he finds nothing. Maybe it is as the kobolds said and the mites are too dumb to set up a watch or patrol around their base.
As you make you way up to the tree, Iradyiel begins looking around for some entry point. He is just about to give up when he discovers within its gnarled root system there is a tight burrowed hole that drops straight down. Without any light you cannot see how far it drops, but the few feet you can see into the hole you do see that the shaft down is root-lined which should make it easier to climb down.
Dhavik comes up besides Iradyiel to look down the hole and leans into his ear; “Looks like it’s about 10 to 15 feet down, then opens up. That’s all I can see.”
In a whisper the kobold leader speaks up as he is pointing towards the hole Iradyiel found.
“We brought you here. You go in and kill the mites and bring back sacred statue. We wait here and finish off any who try to escape or try to come in.”
'A root lined shaft, I guess this is it.' Iradyiel waves Dhavik over, to look down the shaft. nodding when his friend tells the distance. They return to the others, Iradyiel whispers. "tunnel down, opens up around fifteen foot. I'll go down first, Kunala you follow me have your dancing lights ready to go so when I drop you can cast them, While your doing that I'll get out of the way so you can follow me." He looks to the Ladies, "I hope you don't mind, I figure since the two of use are wearing heavier armor we should go in first."
Having gone to the tunnel, Iradyiel climbs to the last root, whispering to his brother, "A the bottom send the bird."