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Handren approaches Dex as he helps Raga clean. "I don't suppose you could have a word with the guards? I'd like to be able to fetch in some lumber, just from one of the copses dotting the plain. That way I could get started on another building... you might have noticed, this trading post has gotten a bit crowded."
Dex: "I will see what I can do. You do have a point some more lodgings would be good to have."
Handren: "Thank you. For some reason, the guards don't have much interest in listening to us."
Raga Silvertail: "Well, it takes time to build trust"
Dex: "More than a few days at least."
Handren: "You seem to be more trusting... why is that?"
Raga Silvertail: "I believe people should get a chance to change their ways, if not..." he glances over at the gate
Handren pales, following the gaze to the site of execution.
Dex: "Thats something you don't need to fear so long as you prove you can be trusted."
Handren: "Hard to prove it when they don't give a chance to."
Raga Silvertail: "I do not like it, that is for sure, but laws are laws. And as Dex stated, honest folks should not fear the blade. But these men here also have a duty, so with time, things will change, you will just have to be patient." He chuckles, "Just be glad we dont send you into caves to clear out giant bugs"
Handren shivers. "We knew better than to head into -that- as bandits."
Raga Silvertail: "I do have a suggestion. During meal times, people tend to be more relaxed. Why don't you accompany Svetlana or whoever serves the food, and then get to know the guards when they are less... on guard"
Handren considers this. "It's worth a try, I suppose."
Dex: "Well if talks go well you may have a chance to prove yourself a little. Then maybe you can get more chances. But for now time is what you need."
Handren: "Time... and materials. Hard to prove I'm serious about the craft without them."
Raga Silvertail: "I can always try to get a few materials for you? If its simply wood you need."
Handren: "Wood, yes... but the quality of the lumber will determine the quality of the structure. Seasoned timber would be ideal for lasting buildings, but fresh would do for sturdier temporary shelters... or it could be brought in to season while we shelter in the stables in patience."
Dex: "I'll see what we can do but I don't think we have the guards to spare when we aren't here so perhaps if Raga and another go with you when we are here you can look for suitable wood."
Raga Silvertail: "Ill make a not of this, and then try to sort it out for you."
Raga Silvertail turns to Dex "That works too, when we have the time, but right now our plate is rather full."
Handren bows, hand to forelock. "Of course, sir. Thank you for your considerations."
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Dex vists his artist friend to see how he is doing. Arni's attempt to paint the cauldron over the flames has a reasonable grassy background and the cauldron is detailed enough, but the flames appear to be eluding him.
Dex: "Well looks like you still have some work but skills aren't built that quickly or easily. And considering how recently you started its pretty good."
Arni smiles. "Thank you...I still need to work on those flames though...they're really hard with the way they're always moving."
Dex: "I'm sure you'll get it with time and practice."
Arni: "You think so? I mean it's only been a couple days... but do you think I have any talent?"
Dex: "More than I do at painting at least. And time will tell of you have any more."
Arni: "But isn't talent just something that you're born with and shines through?"
Dex: "Not all the time. Like how some gems look like gems from the moment they are found some others require refining and polishing to really shine and show their value."
Arni: "So you're saying it's more like fire... sometimes lightning will strike, but other times you take an hour to kindle soggy wood?"
Dex chuckles. "That works too I guess. Yeah."
Arni: "Only... it takes even longer with some people." He frowns down at the flames on his page.
Dex: "It may. But you have time and a desired to paint. You just gotta hold onto that desire and find some inspiration. Perhaps a different art style would fit you better?"
Arni: "A...different style? Like what? Isn't it all a matter of learning to control the brush, and make it match the mind's eye?"
Dex: "Not all. Though art isn't my strong suit I've seen many different kinds of styles in my travels. Some I'm told just let their instincts guide their brush as opposed to trying to make their minds image on canvas,"
Arni: "I think my instincts would just make a mess."
Dex: "Wouldn't hurt to give it a try once or twice. And I'll see about ordering a book or two about art that maybe could help you better than I can."
Arni nods. "Maybe I'll have something after your next excursion."
Dex: "I'll look forward to it."
Arni smiles, and redoubles his efforts on his flames.
((End session 8))
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Our heroes set out for the home of the Sootscale Tribe on the morning of Sarenith 12th, and eight hour journey by horseback.
Rose Medvyed: "Do you guys ever miss baths? I miss semi regular baths. There isn't anything like a nice soak in some warm water."
Raga Silvertail: "That is true, but for now, we have to make due. Good thing there is a river so close by"
MadMohawk: "You know you could take one at Oleg's right? But yeah on these outings it does get hard to do."
Along the way they see a faerie dragon fly overhead, but it doesn't stop to talk.
MadMohawk watches the dragon fly by. "I wonder if that is our friend or a different dragon."
Raga Silvertail "I doubt it, our friend is a lot more...talkative" he chuckles.
Rose Medvyed: "Yeah, they seem different."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot nods along. "Aye, baths be good, but it can't be helped on the road."
Rose Medvyed: "I mostly miss having decent soap. I miss city life."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot looking up at the mentioned faerie dragon, she tries to look closely. The sun is at a bad angle for her and Dex.
Dex: "I wonder where that one is going?"
Raga Silvertail flinches as he accidentally looks straight into the glaring sun. "Uhg," he shakes his head "Doesn't matter now, we have a delivery to make."
Dex: "So we do."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot shrugs. "Might 'o been. Oh well,we'll see them later"
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At length, they come to a hill on the plain, Mikmek directing them with some trepidation towards a small opening. Dhurharen Smeltfoot Looks around cautiously, knowing they might not be welcome. She sees a narrow entrance hidden behind a scattering of boulders. With a faded and weathered sign to one side, and a caged mite to the other. Rose Medvyed has her hands behind her head as they move along.
Raga Silvertail follows the little lizard, mostly just making sure to listen to anything that was translated and also making sure not to get too close. He didnt want to step on his tail or anything
Dex follows close behind the kobold. Translating what he says to the others that need it.
Dex: (Draconic) "So this is the entrance?"
Nakpik: (Draconic) "Mikmek? You return with big ones? They have our clansmen?"
Mikmek nods to Dex. (Draconic) "Our clansmen are dead. These big ones helped me. We need to speak with Chief Sootscale."
Nakpik nods, retreating to a nearby alcove. Mikmek waits a few moments before leading the others in. It's a tight squeeze for the big folk to get past the rocks at the entrance. Dhurharen Smeltfoot is weary, but follows the Kobold.
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Raga Silvertail: "If we have to fight in another cave..." he grumbles as he follows.
Dex: "Well hopefully we won't have to fight."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "You a' me both, Raga."
The tunnel proves to be a cozy 6 feet tall, and lacking in roots and stalactites. The tunnel winds around to another guard post, manned by two kobolds.
Mikmek: (Draconic) "I bring helpers to the chief."
The two guard kobolds nod, and step back into the alcoves.
Rose Medvyed: "You know, I figured with rolling plains we wouldn't be seeing any caves."
Dex: "Remember if we meet this shaman be wary. I think he may be tricking the rest of these kobolds for some unknown reason."
Raga Silvertail nods, they have concluded the shaman is a sham.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Let's hear what he has to say for em'self first."
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Mikmek kneels before his chief. (Draconic) "With the aid of these surface walkers, I have succeeded in my mission."
Raga Silvertail follows suit and bows to the kobold that Mikmek was kneeling in front of. Dhurharen Smeltfoot politely bows as well.
Dex bows to the chief. (Draconic)"We are pleased to met you."
Mikmek holds out the idol.
Chief Sootscale's eyes shine with excitement. "Old Sharptooth... give it to me."
Chief Sootscale's attention flickers to the tall folk. (Draconic) "You have done a proper service to the Sootscale Tribe. Your aid will be honored, but first there are things which must be done."
Chief Sootscale takes the statue in both hands with a fierce look of concentration, as if he were making a particularly difficult decision. Finally, he shrieks in triumph, holds the statue over his head, and then smashes it down onto the ground, shattering it. The other kobolds in the room freeze in shock while Sootscale, a frantic grin on his snout looks up at the surface walkers. (Draconic) "You have my thanks for freeing us from this curse. I go now to slay the usurper. Will you finish what you have started."
Rose Medvyed: "What is he saying?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot quietly whispers a translation as the proceedings continue. Raga Silvertail had his hand on his sword for a second, then looks at the kobold, and tries to motion that he will also help in this movement.
Dex: "Hmm so I take it you figured out your shaman was a fraud?"
Chief Sootscale: "Fraud? Yes. He and Old Sharptooth made many promises to the tribe, but they have brought only death. Now his enmity is clear, and his death approaches!"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot nods. (Draconic) What more do you need from us, Chief?"
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "Tartuk's magic is strong. He has weakened my tribe. Will you join us in our battle?"
Raga Silvertail grins then nods at this.
Dex: (Draconic) "From what your clansman told me of him he sounded like a fraud. No magic I know of works the way he described and we detected nothing from old sharp tooth as you called it. We would be happy to aid you in ridding the person who fooled you all and cost your tribe some of their lives."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: (Draconic) "Battle we are good at," and she cracks her knuckles.
Chief Sootscale passes through our heroes to lead them to the villain Tartuk!
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Dhurharen Smeltfoot follows Raga. Dex follows the Chief, musket drawn and ready. Rose Medvyed readies her blade for a fight. Dhurharen Smeltfoot casts mage armour while they move.
The walls of the shaman's cavern are decorated by a rickety wooden frame formed from clean-cut branches lashed together with gut and twine. Banners cut from two-foot-wide strips of old blankets and horsehides hang from floor to ceiling, covering much of the walls. The sloppily painted banners bear dozens of primitive icons and mystic symbols. A large cauldron filled with bubbling red liquid boils in the center of the room, being stirred by a spoon held by no visible hand.
Chief Sootscale walks up to Tartuk, who is crouched near a cauldron, in which a spoon is stirring with no hand. "Old Sharptooth's curse has been lifted, foul traitor, and now you meet your end!" He cracks the purple-scaled koblod's temple with his bone club.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot readies acid splash
Tartuk: (Draconic) "Lifted? You have but condemned yourselves! Now all the sootscales shall die the yellow death!"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot moves and releases a ball of acid at the fake shaman. Tartuk hisses as the acid strikes him. Tartuk laughs as Roses's blade bounces off an invisible barrier half an inch from his scales.
Dex: (Draconic) "Considering your relic was just a mundane statue and your supposed magic from it is a lie. I don't see your so called curse being real either. But even if it is the Sootscale's have new allies that will help break it if needed."
((Thus ended session 9, as I [the GM] was called away to attend needs in my household.))
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Dex raises his gun and magic washes over it as he takes aim. He fires a shot with a burst of frost coming from the barrel. Tartuk flinches at the noise, and the bullet passes a fraction of an inch over his shoulder.
Tickbiter, Tartuk's black bird, flies into Chief Sootcale's face, croaking "Doooom!" pecking at an eye.
Dex: "I know a great recipe for crow we can try after this."
Chief Sootscale swings at the bird hovering over his face, knocking it from the air.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Might be'a roast crow if ye ask me!"
Raga Silvertail steps closer to the purple shaman and tries to bring his weapon down onto his head. The shaman laughs as the great blade bounces off an invisible barrier. Dhurharen Smeltfoot moves out from behind Dex and points her hands towards the fake shaman, magic starting to move through her. Tartuk hisses as the flames wash over him.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Have at thee, ya slug!"
Rose Medvyed holding her sword in both hands, gives a dramatic flourish that ends with her stabbing straight into his chest, narrowly avoiding the lizard's heart.
Dex: "We should keep him alive so we can try to learn what he was trying to do here."
Raga Silvertail: "Be that as it may Dex, it is not our call" he turns to look at Chief Sootscale
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "Any curse he cast dies with him!" Chief Sootscale swings his club solidly down on the shaman's head, caving it in.
Rose Medvyed quickly pulls out her blade as the chief rushes in to deliver the finishing blow. "He's a... he's certainly enthusiastic."
Dhurharen continues to serve as translator.
Raga Silvertail: "This impostor betrayed and used this tribe, only fitting that it is them who decide his fate."
Dex: (Draconic) "I was hoping we could interrogate him to learn what he planned to do here. But he did use your tribe. It is fitting you decide his fate."
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "You wish to know his thoughts? Look in his journal. He always kept it close. You have aided me in freeing my people from this traitor, and we will not remain in your debt. You have earned a large share of his possessions."
Dex looks for the mentioned journal. Dhurharen Smeltfoot joins Dex in his search. They find it tucked into a burlap bag.
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Dex: (Draconic) "We would be glad to count you as allies as we continue our time in this area. We seek to end the reign of the one know as the stag lord and deal with other problems in the area. We could use any help you and your tribe could provide. And we would offer our aid as well."
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "An alliance? Such a thing has never been between our peoples. Take your traitor-stained reward and leave us."
Dex: (Draconic) "Then we can be the first. I understand any hesitation you may have with recent events but we would truly like to be on good terms with your tribe. We are seeking to settle in this land and being friends with our new neighbors is something we would like."
Rose Medvyed folding her arms over her chest. "We've already proven to be quite handy. We also managed to work together on this. Why not take the chance. If it fails, you cut off ties. If it succeeds, you stand to put your tribe in an even greater position."
Dex: (Draconic) "We can also offer you access to our trading post. You can trade things you find for other stuff you may need. Like food and other supplies."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot continues going through the pile to make sure there is nothing magical in it.
Chief Sootscale bristles. (Draconic) "You would have us be the first kobolds weak enough to rely on trade? With the surface folk who constantly strive to drive us from our homes?"
Rose Medvyed: "What if we make an agreement, not to push you from your homes."
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "How could I trust such an agreement? Do you speak for all surface walkers?"
Dex: "That's part of our alliance. We would prevent others from doing such. And so long as you left innocent people alone you would be free to live how you want. Trade is just an option but with it your tribe could grow the be the strongest around."
Rose Medvyed: "Provided, you don't start trapping our mines. Things will go smoothly."
Raga Silvertail: "Perhaps we should ask if we can continue these negotiations once we have established our rule in these lands?"
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "Your mines? The depths of Golarion belong to dragonkind!"
Raga Silvertail: "How would he react if we show him we have a dragon on our side?" when he says dragon, he motions small.
Rose Medvyed: "Are you talking about who I think you're talking about? I don't think they qualify as being uh... related."
Raga Silvertail: "Still a dragon" he shrugs.
Rose Medvyed: "Yes, but deception this early in a relationship is bad."
Dex: "We just ask you don't harm any who may set up mines in other areas. These caves here are yours we know and will honor that."
Raga Silvertail: "I don't see it as deception. I believe our friend is a dragon, just smaller"
Rose Medvyed was going to clap her hands together. "Perhaps we can come to some sort of an agreement. There is much we can do to benefit from the resources of the earth, as much as you can benefit from the resources above ground."
Dex: "He is more fey than dragon. I don't think they would count him as one but we can ask later if you want Raga."
Raga Silvertail: "Just a suggestion, I know I am not the type to enter in these kind of... talks."
Chief Sootscale: (Draconic) "You may return when you have standing to speak that your own kind will respect."
Rose Medvyed: "Well, he is open to speaking at least. Maybe I should try to learn the language between times."
Raga Silvertail: "Sounds like we are done here."
Rose Medvyed: "Yes, Raga lets start getting these goods on the Horses."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot bows to the chief. (Draconic)"Thank you for your consideration Chief. I am sure we will speak again."
The rest of the kobolds in the cave continue cheering the shaman's demise.
Dex: (Draconic) "We do have some now at the trading post. Should any of your tribe need assistance you are welcome there. We have a talented healer that can also help. But once we deal with the stag lord our authority will be recognized by more of our kin and we will return here. But for the meantime i wish you still see us as allies and should any other surface dwellers cause you problems please seek us out."
As they leave Dex looks for the kobold they rescued.
Mikmek was entrusted with seeing them out.
Dex: (Draconic) "Should your tribe need anything you know where to find us. We can provide healing food or other supplies should you need it. And try not to get captured by mites again."
Mikmek nods thoughtfully. (Draconic) "I will be sure the chief knows what you offer."
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Once outside, and out of ear shot, Raga sighs, "We may have to come back if negotiations fail, and under less friendly terms then."
Dex: "I'm hoping it won't come to that."
Rose Medvyed: "Let's not look forward to a fight, but instead look forward to another unique experience. Also, that smell... hoof. That's going to be in my dreams for years to come."
Aarin "I couldn't care less either way. They can submit to the rule of law or else. If we have to come back and wipe out these evil creatures it won't shed any tears."
Raga Silvertail: "I do not wish for a fight, but I would rather be a soldier in peace time, than a gardener in war time."
Raga Silvertail: "But now, I think we deserve a day or two of rest" he chuckles.
Rose Medvyed: "You could be both in war if you're a florist as a hobby."
Raga Silvertail: "Ah, my dear Rose, then it does not make you a.... anyway, that is beside the point that I wished to make. I need to learn how to talk to people properly."
Rose Medvyed: "I could help you with that. I'm mostly being coy Raga."
Raga Silvertail: "I will take you up on that offer, thank you."
Dex: "As could I. Through my travels I had to converse with many people and things. After a while you get the hang of it."
Raga Silvertail: "My usual meetings with strangers rarely occurred around a fire or a dinner table," he puts his paw on his sword.
Rose Medvyed: "The best place to start is to learn to offend someone. If you can do that, then you can figure out how to flatter them just as easily."
Raga Silvertail: he laughs loudly, "I was told to be myself."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "We could head to the fangberries and then the temple for Jhod? We are closer to them now than heading back to Oleg's?"
Rose Medvyed: "Aren't the berries across the river?"
Dex: "Hmm our supplies should last the trip if we did."
Raga Silvertail: "If we do go get those berries, I suggest we rush back, I plan to take a few samples so Svetlana can grow them at the post."
Rose Medvyed: "Well, provided we can find a safe place to cross, we'll be fine."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "I just wana start getten some o' that list done while we're out."
Rose Medvyed: "That list does seem to grow. For every task we finish we gain three more."
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They set out, exploring their way upriver. The Thorn River winds through a 20-foot-deep gulch between a pair of hills. A rickety old wooden bridge spans the gulch.
Raga Silvertail: "I shall cross first, with the horse, i believe i am the most heavily loaded"
Aarin slides from his horse and readies his bow. "I'll cover from this side."
Rose Medvyed quickly surveys the bridge. Raga Silvertail starts to cross slowly. As Raga's horse steps onto the bridge, it creaks alarmingly. Louder with the horse's every step.
Rose Medvyed: "Hoho... that's not good."
Raga Silvertail stops and guides the horse back "I do not think we can take them across"
Aarin "I'm loathe to leave them here."
Dex: "not unless we can reinforce the bridge it seems.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Or we need to let them cross alone, not with us. Somehow?"
Raga Silvertail: "Dhurharen, can you perhaps see if you can strengthen the wood, or somehow repair the bridge with magic?"
Dhurharen looks at Raga a bit disgruntled. "My magic don't work like that Raga. If 'a did, I could'a fixed things at tha post a lot sooner."
The water is flowing fairly quickly, but free of rapids. The bank falls away quickly, as the river runs between two hills. The river is probably over 10 feet deep in the center.
Aarin: "We could look for another crossing."
Aarin "Its a bit out of the way, but we know there's one back at the bandit camp."
Raga Silvertail: "We should eventually invest to repair all the bridges in the area"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Horses can swim, right?"
Dex: "That would be a good thing to do in the future yes."
Rose Medvyed: "Yes, but it also depends on the current."
Raga Silvertail: "We can simply leave the horses, get the fangberries, then come right back."
Aarin "Didn't you say you have a hard enough time staying in the saddle?"
Rose Medvyed: "I also wouldn't advise riding and swimming."
Dex: "A small detour to the crossing up north sounds good to me. I'm not much of a swimmer or rider."
They follow the river up, and find there is no better crossing on the way up to the Ford. Dhurharen Smeltfoot grumbles some of the way on how the horses could have swam the gap.
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They find themselves coming into the bandit camp on the evening of Sarenith 14th, and thus stay the night.
A familiar tiny pair flutter into the camp near dawn.
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "You came back to our forest!"
Aarin "Morning friends."
Perlivash: "A great morning... though more bandits to play tricks on could have been fun.'
Raga Silvertail: "Greetings"
Dex: "Yep we are here to pick some berries and find a old temple. Perhaps you can assist us?"
Rose Medvyed: "Oh hey, do you know of anymore Faerie Dragons in the area?"
Perlivash tilts his head. "Yes...we told you where the temple is. And my kind are not uncommon in this region."
Aarin chuckles, "Sorry our efforts to remove bandits has lessened your fun."
Dex: "Oh yeah we did see another one near a kobold cave."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Nor are mine, for that matter. We're just more sociable with big-folk."
Raga Silvertail: "Last few days were quite rough," he chuckles.
Aarin "If it makes you feel better you have my permission to pull a prank on Raga."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Berries-berries-berries.. you're looking for raspberries, or blueberries, or elderberries?"
Dex: "Perhaps you could introduce us sometime. I'd be good to get to know the other locals around here."
Aarin: "Nothing quite so common, they're called fangberries."
Dex: "Fangberries Though those other ones would be good to collect as well. Can make a good dessert with some."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Fangberries, this time. Know where they're at?"
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Hmmm... fangberries? Those aren't so fun. Spiders tend to swarm over them."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Spiders? Wha kind 'o spiders?"
Raga Silvertail: "Great...." he grumbles.
Perlivash: "What kind? The nasty icky bitsy bitey kind."
Raga Silvertail: "So fire. I better prepare my torch when we get there."
Rose Medvyed: "How big?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Oh just great." She grumbles, thinking of how she can burn them.
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Not big at all. Even compared to us."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Plenty of friendlier berry-patches. Raspberries grow along the river, upstream from here."
Rose Medvyed: "That does sound lovely, but we're doing it for a friend."
Perlivash: "Do you mostly eat berries and meats? or are you looking for other foods?"
Aarin "Ever hear of moon radishes?"
Perlivash exchanges a look with Tyg, and they nod.
Raga Silvertail: Raga puts up a paw "I prefer meat" he lifts his lips a bit to show fangs "Obvious reasons"
Dex: "We can eat a variety of things. Though some have different preferences."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "There's a patch in this forest. Nice clearing. Just nine miles to the northeast."
Rose Medvyed: "We could get the Radishes now and the berries later."
Aarin "That puts them near the trading post. We can return to them later."
Dex: "That is good to know. I heard they can make great dishes."
"We could grab them on our way back as well."
Perlivash: "The scaly ones like them too... like the one you carried off."
Dex: "I wonder if they would be from the same tribe."
Tyg-Titter-Tut shrugs.
Dex: "Well be on the lookout then."
Aarin "Well what'll it be, should we onward to the temple or turn back for the radishes?"
Raga Silvertail: "We once again appreciate the help, perhaps when the dessert is made you can have some."
Dex: "But as I mentioned before are there anymore of your kin in the area that may be willing to meet us? We'd like to make friends if we can since we will be in this area."
Tyg-Titter-Tut and Perlivash lick their lips. "Promises!~"
Perlivash: "We move around a lot. We can ask."
Rose Medvyed: "Speaking of friends, are there any other humans in the forest besides bandits?"
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Of course. Plenty of hunters. Keep to themselves, mostly."
Dex: "Or any other fey that may not be so welcoming of us?"
Perlivash: "We stay in the north end of the forest. There are... more dangerous and less friendly things further south."
Rose Medvyed: "Do they speak like this?" She'd switch to give an example of Hallit.
Tyg-Titter-Tut laughs. "Those tribes of bigginses live west of the forest."
Rose Medvyed shrugs. "Good to know at least."
Dex: "Anything else we should keep an eye out around here for?"
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Yes... the very north-most part of the forest has been carelessly trapped. But the traps are too big for us to make them safe."
Dex: "You know what set them? Was it something like us?
Tyg-Titter-Tut nods. "They're the metal kind with the jaws and the springs."
Raga Silvertail: "I think we have another thing on our to do list."
Perlivash: "Dozens and dozens of them across the ground. Hidden under leaves."
Dex: "Was it a human that set them? Sounds a bit odd for a hunter to just set them in abundance like that."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Odd, yes. Most hunters much more responsible."
Rose Medvyed: "Could be someone is trying to keep people out. It might be worth investigating down the line."
Raga Silvertail: "Yes, but sooner than later, unrestricted hunting is not good for anyone."
Dex: "True. But if it is causing you trouble we can deal with it sooner."
Perlivash: "We don't land there. But it would be good if they were picked up."
Rose Medvyed: "The land isn't really owned by anyone yet, so it isn't poaching."
Raga Silvertail: "I know its not poaching, but I for one would like to see herds of animals, not one or two."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Other hunters leave some traps, but far, far apart, and leave signs nearby with arrows for smart creatures not to stumble in."
Dex: "Might be a new hunter. Doesn't know the tricks or ways yet. We will investigate after we find this temple."
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Dex: "You both care to join us for breakfast? I think I can whip up something you may like. Though if we had any berries near here it would be better."
Perlivash happily soars between the trees, leading to a raspberry patch just a couple hundred yards upstream. Raga Silvertail follows to harvest some.
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "We will.. but most of the others are shy of bigginses."
Dex made some pancakes using some of the berries to make a sort of syrup by simmering them as well as adding fresh ones in the batter. "Take them some of this and I bet they will be less shy."
The grig and faerie dragon eat their tiny portions with gusto (one pancake each). And then they fly off with a few more. No other fey (or dragons) appear from the woods.
((Thus ends session 10.))
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Our heroes make their way west, towards the ruined temple. The thick tangle of brambles gives way into a large clearing in the woods, its border partially defined by ruined stone pillars.
The western face of the clearing is dominated by a looming, upthrust ridge of rock, nearly 300 feet across and rising to a moss-topped height of 100 feet at the center. The side of this towering boulder facing the clearing has been carved in the likeness of an immense elk, its antlers drooping down from its weathered face to frame a 50-foot-wide cave entrance. A flight of stone steps leads up to this cave entrance from the forest clearing—both the steps and elk face feel quite old and are thickly encrusted with layers of moss.
A 50-foot-long oval pool sits in the middle of the clearing, its waters thick with algae. The water in the pool is foul and stagnant.
Aarin dismounts. Raga Silvertail dismounts too, his sword ready for anything that may be hostile.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot joins Aarin on solid footing, avoiding the foul-smelling waters. "Think we keep th'horses clear o'that water."
Dex: "Probably would be a good idea."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Maybe we tie'em up by the trees rater?"
Aarin: "If we tie them here it should be fine. Animals usually know to avoid such things anyway."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot isn't trusting of these ruins, and stays on guard.
Raga Silvertail starts to move into the ruined areas "Let us finish this task quickly."
The horses huff and stamp nervously, shying away from the ruin. Aarin follows, as does Dex. A roar echoes from the cave.
With that the skinwalker readies his weapon "Be ready, that does not sound friendly."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot readies her hammer in anticipation. Aarin nocks an arrow. It soon becomes apparent that the bear is not going to try to charge out of the ruins. Raga Silvertail slowly advances in the direction of the roar.
Dex: "Perhaps some one should lure it out."
The roar sounds again, louder and angrier.
Aarin "You volunteering?"
Dex: "Perhaps Raga? He seems better to handle it than I could."
Raga Silvertail nods and moves to the west end of the pool, then motioning to the others he's going to shout out. Dhurharen Smeltfoot readies for battle by casting mage armour on herself, then moving up behind Raga.
Raga steels himself, as he shouts out to the beast, "Come out, what ever you are, stop hiding like a coward."
Dex readies a shot for when the creature shows up. A grizzly bear comes out roaring, running down the stairs, and weaving between the intervening blocks of fallen stonework. Aarin's aim is thrown off as he's startled by the bear's speed, but the bow remains intact and in his hand. Dex's bullet grazes the bear's side. Dhurharen Smeltfoot moves to behind Raga, then shoots off a magic missile while the beast is out of range of her hammer. The grizzly bear's snout is stung by the forcebolt and continues its enraged roars. Raga Silvertail advances on the bear, swinging his weapon in a wide arc. The mighty swing beheads the bear. The bear's body melts into that of an unimaginably old man, the head landing with a look of peace before the witchwolf for a moment before the corpse crumbles into dust. The entire shrine turns vibrant, the colors seeming to glow, as the algae and odor vanish from the pond, leaving pure, crystalline water. The stonework smooths and repairs itself. An aura of peace fills the space.
Aarin: "Didn't even leave any for the rest of us."
Dex: "Huh. Guess we lifted a curse?"
Aarin: "Think the horses will drink this now?"
Raga Silvertail looks around at the sudden change in the environment, "Seems you may be right."
The horses now freely wander over to drink. As they do, a few scratches picked up from the foliage close.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot relaxes after the 'beast' is slain. "Well that was anticlimatic... didn't ev'n need us ya big show off" she scolds good naturedly.
Dex: "I am not complaining. The quicker the better." He looks more closely at the changed temple, admiring the sculpting above the cave's mouth.
Raga Silvertail: He laughs "After those cramped spaces, i need to at least prove i can actually swing this thing"
Aarin: "Jhod should be pleased."
Dex: "Indeed. Shall we rest a bit here before going to our next objective. This place feels peaceful now."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Should we not see what this place is about b'fore we leave?"
Aarin "I hardly feel tired yet, but better than resting on the road I suppose."
Raga Silvertail: "I wonder who that man was, he seemed at peace with his death. Also, the horses seemed to have healed up, perhaps we should fill up with the water here?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "A cursed man, if ya ask me"
Aarin fills his canteens. Raga Silvertail follows suit Dhurharen Smeltfoot goes over to the water, first looking at it then filling her own canteen. Dex watches the others as they drink the water.
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They camp in the temple's cave for the night. Nothing hostile approaches this sacred place, though deer graze freely alongside the horses in the clearing. The next morning dawns clear.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot yawns, refreshed after the night's rest "so where to today, fellas?"
Raga Silvertail: Once he is ready and his armour is on again, he waits for the rest "So, onward to make sure those traps are removed, correct?"
Dex: "I believe the traps were next on our agenda."
Aarin: "That's two for the traps, the motion passes."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot mounts up once her gear is packed. "Ai, then lets be go'n."
Raga Silvertail nods as they head out.
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They continue north through the forest, passing the occasional trap marked with signs indicating danger, from a skull and crossbones, to a body being impaled by spikes, to a noose. Each at least a mile from the last encountered. Where they reach the south bank of the Thorn River it is narrow enough for the horses to leap it, given a running start.
As they explore the area on the north side, they happen across a grove of firs, in the upper branches of which are a variety of nests and homes between which flit an assortment of diminutive humanoids with wispy moth-like wings and long, thin ears. They also glow a wide variety of colors. As the big people approach, they form a defensive line, with bows raised.
Aarin (in Sylvan) "We come in peace."
Raga Silvertail sighs. he knows what that language means.
Dex raises his hands. (Sylvan) "We don't seek a fight. In actuality some fey friends have asked us to investigate some traps a bit up north of here."
The creature replies. (Sylvan) "If you mean no ill, then leave!"
Dhurharen holds steady, not wanting to appear threatening, but not knowing what is going on.
Aarin: "If that is your wish."
Aarin: Aarin "It seems we are not welcome here."
Raga Silvertail: "Considering our first contact with fey, its not a big surprise."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Well, a'least they be'n nice about it," She shrugs
Aarin "What do you mean? Tyg and Perlivash were friendly."
Dex: (Sylvan) "May we ask a few questions? You being so close to the area we were told the traps are some of you must have seen or heard something about it. We can offer some gifts in exchange."
The diminuitive creature answers. (Sylvan) "We are not so foolish as to fly into the reach of ground predators. Or above the treetops in view of the large birds."
Dex: (Sylvan) "That may be but none of you seen the creature that has been setting up these traps. Or even heard anything from any other fey?"
Aarin "Let us just leave these creatures then. It is clear they have little desire to help."
Aarin "Not everyone wants to be friends. Sometimes you must count any who do not attack as a win and move on."
Raga Silvertail shrugs and moves away from the place. You can not help those who do not wish to be helped. The 9 inch tall creatures brusquely shake their heads, and gesture with their arrows. Dhurharen Smeltfoot follows Raga, just glad they did not have to fight.
Dex: "Seems so. Maybe next time we meet Tyg and Perlivash we can ask them about these ones."
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They camp beneath the trees on dry ground, a comfortable distance from the glowing fey. Early the next morning they come across the area their fey friends had warned them about. Raga Silvertail begins to scout the area, careful where he puts his feet as he looks for the traps. A few traps near the edges were easily spotted by the dead animals caught in them. Aarin helps him, as they others stay safely behind them on the cleared ground.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "I'll be leav'n this to those who know what their do'n."
Aarin has a bear trap snap at his ankle. His quick reflexes allow him to step back just before the jaws snap shut. As they find the 4 dozen traps strewn through the area, they carefully trigger them with sticks and watch them snap shut, Dhurharen collecting the triggered traps behind the searchers. It is a long and careful day.
Aarin counting "wew, 4 dozen traps, that seems excessive doesn't it?"
Raga Silvertail: "Yes, and also very wasteful."
As they had traveled through the forest they had run across several other traps, marked with signs indicating danger, from a skull and crossbones, to a body being impaled by spikes, to a noose. Each had been at least a mile from the last encountered.
Dex: "I wonder who or what set them and why."
Aarin "Should we camp here for the night? A trapper has to check his traps does he not? I wouldn't mind if he came in the morning."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "I don'know. These critters been dead a few days."
Aarin: "I don't wish to delay by waiting here long, but it has been a long day. Perhaps we will be lucky and he will return by morning, otherwise we can move on."
Dex: "Yes seems waiting could take some time judging by the animal corpses."
Raga Silvertail: "Seeing as how long these critters have been like this, I wonder if he will come back at all? perhaps who ever set these forgot?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Lets put up camp away from those, eh?"
Dex: "It would be easier if we could work with the fey around here. Be able to cover more ground that way."
((Thus ends session 11.))
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In two of the traps, Dex and Raga find small scraps of blue fabric that had been caught in the mechanisms when they were set.
Raga Silvertail ponders. "Blue piece of clothing, not much to go by."
Dex: "Not much we can do with a scrap."
Aarin" "Let's move on. If whoever set these traps returns we can deal with them then."
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The next day's exploration takes them out onto the plains. Here they see abundant animal tracks and can see flocks of small birds flitting through the air as well as the occasional soaring predator.
Raga Silvertail: "Mmmm, the forest seems to be coming back to life. Perhaps we did a more than just put an old man's soul to rest."
Dex: "Seems so. This is good news for our soon to be kingdom."
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When they reach the clearing, they find 4 kobolds lying around with distended bellies, and three baskets of radishes.
Dex: "Huh kobolds. Wonder what tribe they are from. And why they are laying down?"
Raga Silvertail: "If they have gathered those baskets, perhaps buy one from them?"
The Sootscales all had black scales. So do these.
Dex steps up his hands raised as he does. (Draconic) "Greetings. Do you all belong to the Sootscales?"
On hearing strange voices, the kobolds leap to their feet, spears in hand.
Aarin whispers: "So much for the element of surprise."
kobold (Draconic): "Radishes are Sootscales'! Go!"
Dex: "Perhaps you can show us where to find some more? We are friends to your tribe. We helped your chief not to long ago as well as one of our own who was hurt by Mites."
Rose Medvyed: "Might be worth mentioning we were the ones to help kill their wayward shaman too."
Dex whispers: "Maybe, maybe not. I need to know how up to date they are about their tribe."
kobold (Draconic): "This is our patch. We will defend it!"
A second kobold chimes in. (Draconic): "Big folk aren't friends to kobolds, never have been. Even if they help once, it's only because they want something."
Aarin (Draconic): "Keep your patch, but surely you have collected enough radishes to share. We would be willing to consider a trade."
The kobold snorts. (Draconic): "We gather to feed our tribe. What big folk thinking?"
Raga Silvertail: "Tell them we will give them gold, we will then take one basket?"
Rose Medvyed: "Why not kill a few deer. I'm sure they'd prefer the meat."
Dex (Draconic): "Perhaps we can trade food for food? We have other kinds of food your tribe may like. Perhaps we can gather some meat for you all?"
kobold (Draconic): "Boar meat rare treat."
Rose Medvyed: "He sounds like he is thinking about it, what did he say?"
Dhurharen hastens to translate.
Dex (Draconic): "Then if we can find you some will you trade a basket?"
The kobold considers. (Draconic): "Trade... yes... boar for basket."
Dex: (Draconic) "A basket full of radishes right?"
The kobold grudgingly nods.
Aarin: "Looks like we're going boar hunting."
Dex: "Seems we can trade them a boar for some radishes." (Draconic): "We will go and get you a nice boar. We will be back soon with one for you."
Raga Silvertail: "By this information, this may also be a good bargain tool for when we go back to try and negotiate an alliance or the sort?"
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As they leave Raga start to look for boar tracks. He picks up the scent of a boar not far from the radish-clearing. Between them, Raga, Rose and Aarin are able to swiftly discern which direction to follow it.
Dex: "I want to grab two. One for them and another so I can make a meal for us all to try to get them on our good side."
Raga nods. "Let us see if there are more than one to be had"
They secure the horses and approach their prey on foot. As Dex snaps a branch underfoot, the two rooting boars raise their heads, and look towards our heroes. Raga Silvertail, ready and eager for the hunt, charges down the closest boar. His falcata bites deep into the boar's flank. It screams and snorts, turning to gore Raga in retaliation. Raga grunts as the tusks rip into his flesh.
Rose's arrow strike's just behind the other boar's shoulder, getting its attention. Dex moves up and fires a shot at the same boar as Rose, his bullet burying itself in the boar's side. Aarin's arrow is deflected by a tree trunk. Dhurharen's magic missile slams into the second boar as it weaves its way through the trees, and gores Dex. Dex gives a yell in pain as he gets a nasty gash.
Hearing this, Raga raises his falcata high for a mighty sweep which swishes through his boar's spine, beginning the creature's transition from "boar" to "bacon." Raga then darts back to Dex's aid, coming to a stop across the boar from Rose. Rose drops her bow and pulls out her sword. She takes it in both hands and attempts to stab into the boar's flank, but the blade is turned by the boar's thick hair and hide. Dex steps behind Rose and raises his gun charging it with magic as he sends a blast of colors at the boar swirling through the area between his allies. The boar falls over. Aarin steps in to stand over it, and carefully shoots an arrow into its eye.
Dex: "Anyone have a potion I can use?"
Raga Silvertail: "I do not, I still need to pay Bokken for the potions I ordered."
Dex: "Well we got our two boars shall we head back to the kobolds?"
Raga Silvertail: "Indeed, let us be off."
Rose Medvyed: "Let's get the boars to the Kobolds, and then be off to the trading post."
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When they return, they find that the kobolds have banged together a rough sledge to facilitate their boar's transport.
Raga Silvertail: "At least they trusted us to come back with their promised goods" he chuckles
Dex: (Dragonic) "Greetings Sootscales. We return with our promised boar. And an extra one I can prepare for us here of you would like a meal before you go."
The kobold sets out one of the baskets. (Draconic) "Leave boar on sledge."
Aarin: "Friendly lot."
Dex looks at the much stronger Raga. "Care to put one of the boars on the sled?"
Raga Silvertail chuckles as he drags the carcass to the cart. Rose Medvyed grabs the second to assist Raga with the boars. The spokes-
kobold sets the basket down at the edge of the radish patch, and returns to his kind.
Dex: "It's a shame. I was hoping to show you all a great way to prepare them. But i see you all have eaten a lot quite recently. So accept this extra one as a gift for your tribe."
The kobold nods, as one of the others examines the boars.
Even though he knows they can not understand him, Raga still tries to mimic a thank you to the kobolds.
Dex tells Raga the words for thank you in Draconic.
The kobolds hiss and snicker as he butchers the pronunciation and watch the group warily until they leave.
Dex turns to the kobolds before leaving. "Tell Cheif Soothscale if they want more boar meat we will be willing to trade again at Oleg's. He should know where that is. Or at least Mikmek should."
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Dex: "So we got our radishes. I think its time we return to Olegs. I could use some of Jhod's healing."
Aarin "Oleg's it is."
Rose Medvyed: "I could use a bath, a bed, warm walls, and a night without helping in the watch."
Raga Silvertail: "Then the berries when we have rested." He nods.
Rose Medvyed: "We do need to find a safe place to cross that river first. I don't trust that bridge in a light breeze."
Aarin "We know there is a suitable crossing at the former bandit camp."
Rose Medvyed: "Is it still clear though?"
Aarin "It was the last time we crossed."
Dex: "We used it to get across earlier."
Rose Medvyed: "Oh... Mmm... I must have hit my head in the cave at some point."
Dex: "Some rest at Oleg's does seem to be needed."
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As they ride up to the trading post, a poster has been added on the left side of the gate. It bears the rough sketch of a boar, and reads "Tuskgutter Must Die! Bring his head to me (Vekkel Benzen, cottage, 4 miles to the east) for a reward of 6 magic arrows."
Rose Medvyed: "Hoho... Hey Raga, there is a new boar for us to hunt."
Dex: "Another boar... If we are going after it I'm gonna make sure I'm behind Raga this time."
Raga turns to Dex "I agree with this plan."
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Aarin "Jhod, we bring good news from the temple."
Dex: "And more wounds to heal."
Jhod Kavken: "More wounds? That seems to be a disturbing trend with you. I hope the word from the temple is better."
Father Jhod twice raises the silver bow and arrow pendant, and a golden wave washes out into a 30 ft dome, and our heroes' wounds close.
Aarin (to Jhod) "Indeed, we vanquished your bear, and the temple appears to be restored."
Raga Silvertail thanks Jhod.
hod Kavken: "Wonderful news, indeed! Then it falls upon me to honor my word and journey with you that your wounds may be healed in a more timely fashion."
Rose Medvyed: "That's a pretty good plan."
Dex: "We seem to need it."
Jhod Kavken: "You do seem to have a great deal of success in finding troublesome creatures."
Raga Silvertail: "Not so much as we find them, more in the sense they seem to find where we are least armoured."
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Svetlana Leveton comes out, bearing the usual tray of delicious food.
Aarin "And Svetlana, we have something for you as well."
Svetlana Leveton: "Ah, you do?"
Dex: "We managed to get some of those radishes for you. Made a deal with some kobolds and got a basket full for a boar."
Svetlana Leveton: "Ah, wonderful! Let me fetch my purse and I'll get to cooking those. You'll have to tell me what you think of tonight's soup!"
Raga Silvertail: "Quite looking forward to it"
Svetlana Leveton disappears into her house for a minute, returning with a pleasantly plump purse (250 gold crowns).
Raga Silvertail: "Svetlana, i have an idea, i saved a few extra radishes, perhaps, if your thumb is greener than mine, plant some close or in the post?"
Svetlana Leveton: "I... suppose I could try. We have not so much room for gardens in the post, and it has not seemed worth the effort with so many in these wild lands who would steal such valuable plants from without."
Aarin "I doubt many would try now if you plant them within the sight of the guard."
Svetlana Leveton: "That... is a new thought... and if they are staying.. yes... it may well be worth it."
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Keston Garess descends from the watch tower.
Keston Garess: "Ah, you're back! I have a delivery for you. The swordlords sent their gratitude for your efforts against the bandits." He gently lobs a heavily clinking pouch for Rose to catch.
Rose Medvyed would catch it easily enough. "Thank you." She quickly moves to divying up the coins to the rest of the party, and finds a folded parchment tucked in among them.
Aarin "I shall need to consider what I spend my portion on."
The folded parchment reads: "Inasmuch as you have demonstrated your talents in this area, you are hereby commissioned to slay or capture the brigand-leader self-styled the 'Stag Lord.' The gratuity sent with this commission is less than a tithe of the reward awaiting said villain's defeat. If his body (dead or alive) cannot be returned to Restov, we will send an agent to confirm your claims of completion, once communicated to us." It is signed "Swordlady Jamandi Aldori"
Raga Silvertail: "Take on the self proclaimed leader of the lands? I have been waiting for this."
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Keston Garess seeks out Raga and the others while Dhurharen is working on the skinwalker's armor.
Keston Garess: "While you're out there, routing out bandits, I'd appreciate it if you can keep an eye out for a Varisian called Falgrim Sneeg. We were part of a mercenary company a few months ago... then he robbed the rest of us half-blind one night and ran off this direction."
Aarin "We'll keep an eye out for your thief... and see justice is served accordingly."
Raga Silvertail: "Dead or alive, this thief?" he asks as he quietly watches the dwarf work.
Keston Garess: "I understand that battle is battle, but if you manage to bring him in alive, I can give you four masterwork weapons, of your choice... only two if you have to kill him."
Raga Silvertail: "We will do as you ask Keston, alive will be our aim"
Keston Garess nods his thanks.
Dex: "Also keep and eye out for black scaled kobolds. They may be Sootscales and we are trying to get on good terms with them."
Keston Garess: "You're asking me to wait for them to make the first hostile move, then."
Dex: "Well we sort of invited them to trade here if they would like. I doubt they will just yet but it would be best to prepare if they do, Do you or anyone here speak draconic?"
Raga Silvertail: "Yes, and please report if such a thing happens, and what lead to it. So that if we encounter their chief, we can at least say we also know what happened"
Kesten Garess agrees to do so, and returns to his watch.
Aarin "Seems we have several more quests to add to our to do list."
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Oleg Leveton would seek out a quiet word after the delicious Moon Radish Soup is served and enjoyed.
Oleg Leveton: "While you were out, we had a few hunters pass through, mentioned sighting a tatzlwyrm off a ways southwest, in the forest. First I've heard of them in this region, but they're well known to be dangerous beasts, maneaters when they can manage. And one of their heads on the wall would be quite a draw. So, I should be able to manage 600 crowns if you can bring one in. In recognizable condition, mind."
Raga Silvertail: "As a trophy, I would deem that would be needed, yes." He chuckles. Oleg Leveton chuckles with him.
Dex: "I'm sure we could manage that if we find one."
Raga Silvertail: "Well, we have quite the list again, we need to prepare for another long time away from our beds."
Oleg Leveton: "No urgency, for mine at least. You're welcome to return and rest up, often as you like."
((Thus ends session 12.))
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Raga Silvertail "Do we have things that can deal with a lot of spiders?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot From the forge, she yells "Fire! Lots 'n Lots of Fire!"
Dex: "I can prepare burning hands. That deals with swarms well. That and alchemist fires."
Aarin "I'm preparing a couple burning hands, and we found a couple alchemists' fires earlier."
Raga Silvertail sighs and then replies "Yes, but do we have enough fire?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Ai. 'N I have both and then somethi'n extra."
Svengald: "No spider infestations here, at least." The apprentice seems to be considering the advantages of a quieter life.
Raga Silvertail: "Well, as long as you guys think we are ready for them, 'cause I know I can deal with big things, but lots of little things? They get everywhere..."
Dex: "Then we will leave the big spiders up to you while we burn the smaller ones."
Rose Medvyed: "I can at least help with the smaller spiders."
"I meant big ones."
Raga Silvertail: "That I can do, just keep the little blighters off of me, I don't want to deal with spiders in front and on me"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Maybe some more alchemist fire wouldn't hurt."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot She turns to her apprentice. "Ye, be doi'n a mighty fine job here, laddy. Soon enough ye can move on to a big city or a small town. There is always room for a new smithy, always handy."
Svengald smiles. "Thank you, m'lady, but I still have so much to learn... you make it all look so easy, and then I feel like I'm wearing lead gloves when I try to imitate your craft."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Ai, that comes with time n' practice. The more ye work at it, the easier it gets. Now hit that pauldron into shape like the other one." And she holds the red hot metal over the anvil.
Svengald hefts the hammer and gives it a few things, carefully working in a steady rhythm, his attempts at planishing it out making a few more impressions than proper smoothing.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: Once Svengald has had his try she asks to switch places with him in order to show him slowly how he should hold and handle the hammer for the right technique. Svengald watches closely and quietly.
Dhurharen spends the next three days hard at work on her friends' requested gear.
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Dhurharen Smeltfoot Once done with the requested pieces, she heads over to Oleg. "Oleg, would ye be havi'n some Alchemists Fire for sale? Would be mighty handy against the spiders."
Oleg Leveton: "Just got in a shipment a couple days ago. How much are you thinking you'll want?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Hmm. I be looking at a few, depending on price, of course. What would 5 set me back for?"
Raga Silvertail: "My hands will be full, so I am relying on the rest of you to handle the explosives."
Oleg Leveton: "Going rate is 100 crowns for 5."
Dex: "Any discount for some friends? We will be sure to bring back any thing that would make a nice trophy for your place as we go along as a added bonus."
Oleg Leveton: "Say, 80 gold?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "I'll be tak'n the 5 then." And winks a thanks towards Dex.
Dex: Gives a nod back. "Anytime you need my services I'll try to be there."
Oleg Leveton: "I'm rather hoping I won't need you to fend off any further attacks."
Raga Silvertail: "Same here, our main goal is to make these lands safe for folks like you and your wife"
Dex: "Yep and with a safer land you will soon have much more business coming through."
Oleg Leveton: "It has been picking up slightly...what with the new guards needs and all."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Thank ye kindly. Will be sure to bring back anything of use to ya as well. "
Dhurharen Smeltfoot turns to Dex, "Thank ye as well. But maybe we need te start pay'in the man. He be doin' us many favours already."
Dex: "He has but our task has a lot of expenses as well. keeping them down does us all good."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "That be true. Maybe we find more useful things for 'em on the way."
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Dex keeps an eye out for their fey friends as they near the forest. Around noon, they reach a portion of the plains strewn with bones.
Rose Medvyed: "Is it a burial site or... a trash heap?"
Aarin "Hmm a mix of deer, boar, bear... and a few human."
Raga Silvertail: "With this many remains, something was here allright, and it likes to eat"
Rose Medvyed: "Trash heap then..."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot sits uneasy on her horse, hand ready on her hammer. "I not be lik'n the looks of this place"
Dex: "Be wary. Whatever left these here could be near still."
Raga Silvertail: "What ever left these, is dangerous, best keep your eyes open, it seems it likes this spot. What ever it is, can be back any second."
Rose Medvyed: "Mhmm..."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Then best we be mov'in out o here"
Aarin "Our lands might be safer if dealt with whatever it is."
Raga Silvertail nods his head "If at all possible, I too would like to clear up this mess before it becomes a bigger problem."
A trapdoor spider the size of a boar springs from a mostly-hidden pit, attacks Raga, and retreats under the same pile of bones when its mandibles bounce off the skinwalker's armor.
Aarin "You did say you don't mind the big ones."
Rose Medvyed leaps from her saddle and rushes to attack the spider, her blade deflected by the bones of the spider's lid. A bit surprised, but unharmed, Raga starts to make his way to where the spider attacked from and tries to slam his sword on top of the spider's head, only for it to become wedged among the bones forming the lid of the spider's lair.
Rose Medvyed: "I shouldn't have gotten kicked out of the Academy."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot jumps off her horse and runs in, but is just not close enough yet to do anything without endangering the others. Aarin tries to fire into the hole and misses. The giant trapdoor spider lunges at Rose, and pulls its body back into its lair as she dodges its mandibles. Dex jumps off his horse and moves in taking aim and firing his gun at the hole and the spider. With a loud crack the bullet thuds into the giant spider, and it drops into its pit.
Dex: "Did I get it?"
Raga gives Dex a thumbs up "Nice shot there."
Rose Medvyed: "I think you did... and I might be developing a slight ringing in my ears." She said jabbing a pinky into one of them. "Anyway, shall we see what it has in its den?"
Dex: "Don't worry after a while you start to not notice the ringing anymore."
Jhod Kavken: "It's good to see that some of your adventures can go smoothly."
Rose Medvyed: "Many of them go smoothly. Do things go according to plan? Mmm... depends."
Aarin "I was standing nearer the noisy end."
Dex: "I wonder if there are more holes like this around, and I was the closest."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Are we sure there is just one o them?"
Aarin "Nope."
Jhod Kavken: "We can be sure that only one's attacked..."
Raga Silvertail: "I will look around, you guys stay here and wait to see if anything jumps me."
Aarin "Wasn't going to suggest it, but if you're volunteering."
Raga Silvertail: "That is my intention."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot keeps an eye out for more similar looking doorways while Raga wanders the bone field, until all are satisfied that no more giant spiders lie in wait.
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Rose Medvyed: "Do we remember any complaints about spiders? Maybe there is a bounty? Maybe something is down in its hole."
Raga Silvertail: "Well, it doesn't seem like there is anything out here other than that one."
Dex: "Well if you want to crawl down a spider hole go ahead. I'll be right behind you with my gun loaded."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Not see'in any other hatches around us, but best be sure."
Dex: "Maybe one of it's past victims have something we could use."
Jhod Kavken: "Or is the lady squeamish about moving aside old animal bones?" He comes over, and starts breaking up the lid with his boot.
The shaft of the spider's lair is 25 feet deep, coated in thick webbing arrayed in a ladder-like pattern.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Fine, I'll take a look"
Raga Silvertail: "Rope will be needed, I can't jump that high"
Aarin "I've got rope in my saddle bag."
Dex: "Let's tie you and lower you so we can pull you up if you get stuck."
Raga Silvertail: "Seems climbable, but get the rope just in case"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Who's gona lower ya down? I won't be much help with that."
Rose Medvyed: "I should be fine down there. I'm even pretty light."
Raga Silvertail: "Are you sure, I would rather have myself down there."
Rose Medvyed: "Yes, but you are also in full plate. I'm light and flexible. It would take the four of us to pull you out."
Dex: "This reminds me of the last time I tied someone with rope."
Jhod Kavken: "Oh? When was that? One of the brigands you took prisoner?"
Raga Silvertail: "Easy there Dex, keep things civil" he chuckles.
Dex: "Don't think I need to use trickery here though. Yes was quite a ordeal. Had to think on my feet to convince her to let me tie her up."
Jhod Kavken: "She let you..." The priest shakes his head. "Sounds about as hard as talking birds out of the bushes."
Dex: "I can be quite convincing when I need to be. And a little magic can go along way as well."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "So who be go'in down now? Or should I?" and she mutters something to herself under her breath.
Rose Medvyed: "So, down into the hole... Well... Dwarves can see in darkness."
Raga Silvertail: "I can too," he adds.
Dex: "So can I."
The sun is just about overhead, and the pit is only 25 feet deep. With the bones removed, it's plenty light.
Dex: "But seems we don't need to."
Rose Medvyed: "Anyway, I volunteer. I'm a capable fighter. Besides, if there were babies we'd know by now."
Dex: "True lets just tie up rose and throw her into the hole. No point in debating it further."
They tie Rose into a harness and lower her down. Raga keeps his eyes open and himself ready to pull her up at a moment's notice in case things go south.
Aarin: "Watch the hole be empty."
Rose Medvyed: "Well, then we can all be disappointed together. But I'll have explored a hole, so I can feel like I accomplished something."
As she touches the spidersilk and finds it's not sticky, she realizes it can be woven in the same fashion as the sort coming from distant Tian Xia.
At the bottom of the pit, under layers of silk, is the body of a bandit.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot "Maybe not completely empty." She points towards the corpse. "Grab as much of that spiders silk as can get, it worth a pretty penny."
Rose Medvyed: "I'll keep that in mind."
The bandit's corpse has a silver stag-skull amulet hanging over his leather armor and carries a short sword. 10 gold crowns are in his purse.
Rose Medvyed, once finally starting her descent, would take out a a dagger and start to cut off large swaths of silk for her Dwarven friend. As for the body, she very carefully unwraps it to see what is on him. Making sure to check pockets, pouches, and bags during her investigation. She'd look up at the group. "Do we want to drag him up? He looks like a dead bandit."
Aarin: "I'd say the spider saved us the trouble of digging a grave."
Rose Medvyed: "I'm a fan of cremation, but I also don't want to hold him."
Dex: "Could just drop a alchemist fire in the hole when your out."
Rose Medvyed holds up a hand. "Oh wait... hold on." She'd start pulling something out of his boot.
Aarin: "If you prefer we can drop some fire down the shaft when you're done."
Rose Medvyed: "Nothing worse than foot stink, I can't imagine dead foot stink is better."
She retrieves a parchment with a simple drawing of a claw-shaped dead tree atop an otherwise barren hill, with an “X” in blood scrawled by the tree’s roots.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot smiles at the amount of good spiders silk produced. "We can sell this for about 600 gold crown, if Oleg can trade it."
Dex: "Maybe a little more if we do a little bargaining."
Aarin: "Reminds me of the mite's tree."
Dex: "Want us to pull you out now?"
With that, Raga starts to help Rose up and out of the hole.
Rose Medvyed: "I don't really see anything else on him that is worth anything. The amulet is certainly valuable to someone."
Aarin: "We've seen a couple of amulets like this already on some of the bandits. Seems to be a mark for them. We may find them useful if we wish to impersonate some."
Raga Silvertail: "Hope we can, I would rather attack a fort from the inside than to try and assault it from the outside."
Dex: "We already got some info to do that if we wished to go that route."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot holds a hand ready to help pull her friend out of the hole once she reaches the top.
Dex: "We should keep and eye out for that tree. Might be hiding something good there."
Raga Silvertail ponders it for a moment "Wonder where this is located?"
Rose Medvyed: "You think it might be a cache?"
Dex: "I would guess so. Might have been a place he hid stuff he kept on the side."
Rose Medvyed: "So, do we want to stop by the Mite Tree on our way back?"
Aarin: "Why?"
Dex: "I don't think it was the mite tree in that map."
Rose Medvyed: "Oh, I thought someone said it was the mite tree."
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Early the next evening, they espy a particularly rocky crag rising from the hills and approach its base.
Rose Medvyed: "There is a crack... I wonder how deep it goes."
"Mmm... do we go in?"
Dex: "Shall we check it out?"
Jhod Kavken: "It might be occupied."
Dex: "Someone care to check?"
Rose Medvyed: "I can go first." She said making a slow and quiet approach to the crag.
Dex has his gun ready to fire if anything attacks Rose.
Rose Medvyed: "There is some rustling within."
Aarin casts a light spell on an arrow and fires it down into the opening. It shoots down 20 feet, then bounces inward.
Rose Medvyed: "I think... I'm going to go in." She draws her blade.
Nothing attacks as Aarin retrieves his rope from his horse. They secure the rope and descend, finding a cave roughly 30 feet in diameter, a patch on the back wall sparkling in the light.
Rose Medvyed: "There is something... shiny in the back."
Aarin: "We struck gold."
Dex: "Literally?"
Aarin: "Yep, thats a gold ore vein. Probably not worth it to mine ourselves, but once we establish our barony, a very useful resource indeed."
Jhod Kavken: "And quite the draw to settlers."
Rose Medvyed: "Hahaha, that will be very useful to us later on. Do we share this information though?"
Aarin: "Let's keep it under our hats for now."
Dex: "It is. Once we deal with this Stag Lord it would be a great starting project for our barony."
Rose Medvyed she'd give a nod. "Certainly was a good idea to have explored this way."
Dex looks around the rest of the cave. The entry is steep enough to dissuade most animals from lairing here, as it is also rather well hidden by the plants growing over it. The walls are smooth, though a few small stalagmites and stalactites dot the floor and ceiling.
Rose Medvyed: "Getting in and out of here is going to be a nuisance though."
Jhod Kavken: "I'd guess that when it's made into a mine they'll want to level out the entry a bit."
Rose Medvyed: "Or make some very good stairs."
Dex: "That is something easily dealt with then. For now lets make a note of this location and continue on."
Jhod Kavken: "It is evening... do you think we should camp here? This crack would make a natural chimney, if I'm any judge."
Aarin: "Seems reasonable."
Rose Medvyed: "I don't think camping in the cave would be bad."
Dex: "Could be a nice place for a camp. Guess I'll see what I can whip up for grub."
Rose Medvyed: "Hopefully the forest won't hold any particularly nasty surprises for us."
Dex: "Here's hoping." Dex then bites into the amazing meal he made for everyone.
Jhod Kavken enjoys his portion greatly. "My compliments to the cook."
Rose Medvyed nods in agreement with Jhod as she devours her meal.
Dex: "Glad you all like it. Decided to try a new combination. Seems it works pretty well."
Jhod Kavken: "Quite well indeed. I hope you'll be able to remember how you did this."
Dex: "As do I."
Rose Medvyed: "So, we're traveling through the old Bandit Camp next?"
Jhod Kavken: "And then south, into unexplored lands."
Dex: "That's the plan."
Rose Medvyed: "I wonder what the other side of that river holds. Alright, well... if we're going to have a busy day, I'm going to rest up now."
Dex: "Also Jhod keep an eye out for a few fey when we enter the forest."
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After they have journeyed nearly two and a half hours the next morning, they near unexplored land and a large quantity of leaves and slugs suddenly falls on Fr. Jhod's head. Jhod Kavken sputters and flails a bit as he knocks them away. The forest echoes with familiar laughter from tiny throats.
Rose Medvyed: "Ah yes, we've entered prankster territory."
Dex: "Told you to watch out for them."
Jhod Kavken: "I'm afraid my eyes aren't as sharp as yours."
Rose Medvyed: "Well they're very good at hiding. Welcome to the group, you've been indoctrinated."
Jhod Kavken: "I'm honored." he says with dry humor.
Dex: "They are rather nice once you get to know them better."
Dex: (Sylvan) "So how have you two been? Any more trouble with traps?"
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "No more trouble, no!"
Perlivash: "Thank you for clearing up that killing field."
Dex: "Glad to help. Perhaps you can explain a bit about those fey we encountered near there? They weren't nearly as friendly as you two."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Which fey were they?"
Dex describes them.
Perlivash: "Oh. You ran into the sprites. Not bad folks, but they tend to be terrified of everything. Never laugh at jokes."
Rose Medvyed: "They sound like the worst."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "Oh no... there are far worse fey...dark and terrible things came from the First World along with the good."
Aarin "Yeah, like gnomes."
Rose Medvyed: "Haha... gnomes aren't that bed, but they are certainly unique."
Tyg-Titter-Tut and Perlivash laugh at this joke.
Jhod Kavken watches this casual conversation wiht a look of wonder.
Dex: "So we are off to collect some fangberries. Care to join us for a while. I can make us some more pancakes later if you'd like."
Perlivash: "Maybe for a bit. Unless we see something more interesting."
Rose Medvyed: "What could be more interesting than us?"
Dex: "And here I though I was pretty interesting myself."
Perlivash: "No insult intended... but hopping from perch to perch at your slow pace is a bit... restricting when the skies start to beckon."
Dex: "I can imagine. Flying seems like so much fun."
Rose Medvyed: "You know, with your bird's eye view of things. Anything interesting going on?"
Tyg-Titter-Tut grins. "You can't even imagine. The rush of wind under your wings..."
Perlivash: "That depends what you big'uns consider interesting. Most of the trees' flowers have budded into fruit."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "The hawks and eagles are teaching their fledglings to hunt."
Dex: "Maybe one day. When my magic is greater I can join you in the skies. For now though I'm land bound."
Perlivash nods. "One day."
Dex: "You know if you bring me some fruit now and then I could make something tasty out of them. Like I did with the berries before."
Perlivash nods. "But they aren't ripe yet."
Dex: "Well when they are I'd be glad to make something for some friends. And any friends you both may have too that aren't too shy as well."
Tyg-Titter-Tut: "We can spread word, as harvest time nears."
Fr. Johd gets some lessons in patience as he finds sticky sap coating the outside of his waterskin, along with several other minor pranks until the fey grow bored and flit off.
Dex: "Seems they like you."
Rose Medvyed: "He is new."
Jhod Kavken: "I'm not sure 'like' is the right word."
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Dex: "Seems this is boar country. Be on guard for those mean beasts."
Rose Medvyed: "Wasn't there a big boar we were supposed to... possibly hunt?"
They come across a hollow under a large fallen pine tree, the branches of which have created a natural shelter. Bones litter the den, beneath its porcine occupant.
Rose Medvyed: "That's a big'un."
Dex: "Tuskgutter? I think so."
It does have the identifying marks Oleg mentioned when asked during the crafting spree.
((Thus ends session 13.))
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Aarin dismounts, and his horse puts her head companionably over his shoulder just as he fires, knocking his aim off, and his over-correction thwacks the mare with his bow. Tuskgutter charges Dex and his horse, raising his tusks at the rider's legs. Dex dismounts and steps back from the boar as he charges his gun with magic. He then points it at the boar and shoots a cone of colors at the animal. Tuskgutter snorts and paws the ground. Raga Silvertail gets off his horse too, and then brings his weapon down on the animal's head. The falcata cracks into the boar's skull. It squeals angrily, turning on Raga. Tuskgutter attempts to gore him. Raga simply turns a bit and all the boar gets is the sting of metal. Dex once again takes aim at the boar and fires a flaming ray at it. The line of fire cuts through the boar's chest, and he falls.
Dex: "So who wants roasted boar?"
Raga Silvertail: "Victory!" he laughs loudly "Now we need to take something as proof? Didnt the man say his weapon was stuck in its hide? I see many..."
Dex: "We just need the head Raga. Guess we can use the rest as meals for our outing."
Raga Silvertail: With one clean chop, Tuskgutter's head is removed from the rest of its body. "Right, that's dealt with."
Dex: "Now lets hurry and get the berries and turn in this head."
The ring glittering on the tusk is rather notable.
Aarin detects magic. "We got a magic ring here."
Raga Silvertail watches as Dex and Aarin study the ring, coming to no conclusion. The boar's lair is littered with small animal bones.
Raga Silvertail: "All I see are animal bones, no human or other race's that I can tell. Not really my forte, but if you want, we can still rummage through it?"
Dex: "Doesn't look like much is here."
Jhod Kavken: "Of course, the hunters he'd been terrorizing generally can't shoot rays of fire, and are only lightly armored..."
Raga Silvertail: "Lets get going, i dont want to lug a rotting head with me the whole time" he taps his snout.
Jhod Kavken: "Ah, that I can help with. Considering this eventuality I have memorized a preservative prayer."
Dex: "That is helpful Jhod."
Raga Silvertail: "Well done Jhod." He nods as he starts to tie the head to his saddle
Aarin "Erm, ah, father Jhod, this is a bit embarrassing, but do you think you could spare a curative spell for my horse? The poor brute."
Jhod Kavken stifles a chuckle. "Ah, yes. Of course. Wouldn't do to have your horse walking into things." He prays for the horse's healing, and it is healed.
Aarin petting the horse. "There that's better. Now try to stay out of the way next time."
Raga Silvertail looks at Jhod "Can you divine what the ring does perhaps?"
Jhod Kavken: ""As for the ring... such things have not been a major area of my study, but I have picked up a few things..." He studies it. "Ah, yes. This is a minor protective ring. It must have given the beast an edge."
Raga Silvertail smirks at the other two casters. "Well then, not enough it would seem."
Jhod Kavken: "Not against blade, bow and spell." The cleric agrees.
Raga Silvertail chuckles at that, "Indeed."
Dex: "We should rest before we approach the berries. I need to prepare some other spells for any spiders and recharge after Tuskgutter."
Jhod Kavken: "We were planning to take the rest of the day to explore this area, were we not?"
Raga Silvertail nods.
Dex: "Sounds good."
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A dense patch of rare raspberry-like berries known as fangberries grows in a long, thin valley between two low hills here. Much of the thorny thicket is draped in the white gossamer silk of spider webs.
Raga Silvertail: "Well lady and gents, lets get this over with, if there are big ones, I'll handle them, you lot try to handle the smaller ones." As Raga wades into the thicket, he sees a swarm of spiders surging towards him. He also notices that the best berries are safely in the middle of the thicket. "Here they come!" He warns "Dhurharen! Douse them in flames!"
The dwarf's cone of flames incinerate the spiders... and lights up the webs and bushes they were crawling through.
Dex: "Can anyone put out those flames? Burning the whole bush is not what we wanted to do."
Aarin: "I've got a couple canteens."
Jhod Kavken: "I can drop 8 gallons on a section."
Raga smothers the nearest section of flames with his bedroll. Aarin follows suit.
Dex: "Well I have an idea but it will be a bit bright." He calls upon his celestial heritage to work its magic on the fire. Casing the flame to flash and explode into many colors and shapes. mimicking a fireworks display. "Sorry about that but it got the job done before it spread."
Four of the horses start rearing in panic as they're blinded.
Still blinking a bit, Raga simply nods "No worries, dealing with problems as they arise seems to be our thing any way."
Aarin "No need to apologize! It got the job done." He turns to his horse. "Easy now."
Dex: "Don't think they liked it that much."
Jhod Kavken manages to calm one of the blind horses. Dex soothes two more. Aarin's horse's hooves lash out blindly. One clips Aarin's shoulder as he dodges the other.
Aarin: "Next time I won't ask the nice priest to heal you."
Dex: "He's just paying you back for earlier."
Jhod Kavken clicks his tongue soothingly. "Now there's no need for that, Aarin. The poor beast doesn't know what she's doing." He dodges in, resting a soothing hand on the horse's long nose. and petting. "There now. It'll all be all right."
Dex tries one of the berries. The fangberries taste like raspberries that have been dipped in caramel sauce.
Dex: "These berries are indeed good. I can think of all kinds of things I could make with this. Maybe we can dig up a bush or two to replant somewhere else."
Raga Silvertail: "Way ahead of you there Dex," he calls out from under the bushes as he gathers the berries in his full plate.
Dex: "I wonder what a jam made of this would taste like."
Jhod Kavken: "I would say 'quite sweet.'"
Aarin: "Flavor combinations mother nature never should have intended."
Jhod Kavken: "You don't like them, Aarin?"
Aarin "I'll stick to raspberries."
Jhod Kavken grins. "More for the rest of us."
Dex: "Gather a few extra Raga I'd like to try them in our meals tonight."
A thumbs up emerges from within the thicket, accompanied by munching.
Jhod Kavken: "Those spiders had suprisingly good taste..."
Dex: "Probably set up here to catch the animals that came for them."
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Dex: "Bokken we return with the berries."
Old Bokken looks out his doorway as the clanking approaches. "You-got-the-berries? Didn't-eat-them-all-on-the-way?"
Raga Silvertail: "As hard as it was not to, no we did not."
Dex: "We have some self control. Though Raga scared me with how many he was eating at once."
Raga Silvertail sighs.
Old Bokken throws his head back and laughs wildly. "Giv'm-here-then. Your-discount's-good-now-till-Erastus-27th."
Raga Silvertail: As he hands the berries over, he also hands over 225 crowns "As agreed, with discount, for the potion I ordered"
Old Bokken nods, and fetches the potion for Raga.
Raga Silvertail deliberately stores the potion so his companions can see, then states "For emergencies."
Jhod Kavken: "I'll try to help you not need that... though I haven't seen you get into any real trouble yet."
Raga Silvertail chuckles "I appreciate it Jhod, this is for when you are not available, or perhaps not in a position to help"
Jhod Kavken nods. "Never hurts to take precautions out in the wild."
Dex: "They came in handy before."
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From there, they head north until they hit the road, and find a certain cottage. Once again Raga finds himself knocking on a door
Once again, an older man answers it. This one has a peg leg on the left.
Raga Silvertail: "Vekkel?" he asks as the man appears
Dex stands next to Raga.
Vekkel Benzen nods warily around the half-opened door. "What might be your business here?"
Dex: "We got a head of a certain animal for you."
Raga Silvertail looks over to his horse and the head hanging from it "We come baring gifts."
Vekkel Benzen raises a brow. "Forgive my skepticism, but the occasional bright bandit has tried that claim to lower my guard."
Raga Silvertail walks back to fetch the head then drops it at the old man's feet
Vekkel Benzen smiles in satisfaction. "Ah. Yes. that is the right head. One moment, and I'll fetch those arrows.
Vekkel Benzen holds out a sheaf of 6 arrows, held sideways. "You'll find them particularly effective against animals."
Aarin "Yes those will be most useful."
Raga Silvertail nods and then thanks Vekkel "A pleasure, kind sir." He then turns and hands the arrows to Aarin "There you go."
Dex: "Should be useful should we come up against more beasts like that."
Vekkel Benzen: "Good to see an end of that beast. It's the one that got my left leg, below the knee."
Dex: "It tried to so that to me as well. thankfully i manged to move my leg before it could."
Vekkel Benzen: "I was not so well accompanied."
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On their way back Raga comments "Not my place to tell you what you should do, but I do suggest we rather sell those arrows off"
Aarin "I understand your position Raga, but these are powerful arrows. You will be grateful we kept them when used against the right foe."
Raga Silvertail nods "No argument from me."
Dex: "Just make sure you hit when you use them. And not your horse."
Aarin looks at the ground sheepishly.
Raga Silvertail simply laughs as they finally ride into Oleg's post.
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Svetlana Leveton: "Ah! Our heroes have returned!"
Raga Silvertail: "Well now, heroes are we? Must have happened while I was asleep, I don't remember doing anything to be hailed a hero."
Svetlana Leveton: "You did save us from bandits. Returned a prized possession thought forever lost. All at the risk of your own lives. This is the stuff of heroes, where I was raised."
Raga Silvertail simply smiles "I see it as simply doing the right thing"
Jhod Kavken notes dryly. "The two are hardly mutually exclusive."
Dex: "That is true. And I think Raga is simply embarrassed to be called a hero."
Dex: "Any developments since we left?"
Svetlana Leveton: "There has... been an incident. Father Jhod? Could you see to Rollan? Alric claimed it an accident when the boy fell into the forge... fortunately, Svengald had already banked the flames, but he did not see what happened. And Nikolai did not believe Alric, now..."
Jhod Kavken nods gravely. "Where is he?"
Svetlana Leveton: "We tucked him into one of the guest bunks. Nikolai is watching over him, though the guards had to drag him off Alric... He was not so badly hurt. The guards heard the commotion and moved quickly.""
Dex: "Perhaps we should speak to them about this then."
Raga Silvertail: "This sounds serious" he states grimly.
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The young man's face and shoulders are bandaged when they arrive, he groans as one drifting in and out of consciousness. Nikolai stands nearby, with a bowl of water and a rag, which he's clearly been using to keep the bandages moist.
Dex: "Seems we really do need to speak with them. Jhod we will let you focus on healing the boy. Raga maybe its time for a chat with the others."
Raga Silvertail: Raga sighs and nods, "Seems so. Outside, in case fists come out, I don't want to spoil Svetlana's meal."
Dex: "Hopefully it won't come to that."
Jhod Kavken can be heard praying over Rollan through the door as they leave. Raga withdraws to the execution ground just outside the gate and waits for Dex to arrive with Alric.
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Dex: "So care to tell us your side of what happened?"
Raga keeps a close eye on Alric, trying to read the man for any tell tales of him lying or not telling the whole truth.
Alric: "Not much to tell. I was talking with Rollan as he finished currying Claptrap and was leaving. He turned away, and tripped over a rake handle. Fell headlong into the forge. I leaned over to check on him when I felt a great weight hitting my back and heard Nikolai roaring. When I woke up, Kesten told me they'd confined Nikolai with his boy, and we'd get everything straightened out."
Dex looks to Raga for his reaction.
Raga Silvertail speaks up, staring at Alric, almost emotionless "Are you sure that is what happened? I would be highly upset if I find out you are lying to us"
Alric smiles somewhat stiffly. "Quite sure. That's exactly what happened."
Dex: "You should know my friend here is really good at sniffing out lies. And he tends to hate being lied to quite a bit."
Dex: "Think he is lying Raga?"
Raga Silvertail begins to shift, growing claws and teeth "I can smell that you are hiding something from me, human."
Aarin "You know I'm still in favor of summary execution for banditry."
Raga Silvertail steps in real close, taking a big long sniff at the man.
Dex: "You know if you just come clean and tell us what really happened and why we can work this out. Otherwise we'd let Raga here do what he thinks would be best."
Alric: "So he didn't like me telling him that Nadine's really too old for him and he should back off. He was in a huff when he turned. Should have watched his step."
Dex: "And i take it you too favor this Nadine?"
Raga Silvertail lets out a growl. "Even now you hide things, you are trying my patience."
Alric: "She's a beautiful woman. Strong, funny... she's been teaching me all about the intricacies of the law... most people don't realize the guards have to know this stuff."
Raga Silvertail: "Let me guess, he didnt fall, you punched him, and he fell."
Alric: "No! I swear it!"
Raga Silvertail: Raga shifts back to human, holding the bridge of his nose "Fighting over a woman is normal, why don't you simply have a duel over who gets her?"
Alric chuckles. "Have you talked to Nadine? She's quite clear that she'll do the choosing. The kid was bothering her, and I wanted to help her get him to knock it off."
Raga Silvertail:"So did you push him? How did the accident happen then?"
Dex: "Did she tell you that or did you just put what you felt as what she did as well?"
Raga Silvertail: "And by your previous description, i do not think this Nadine would be bothered by the young man's actions as much as you would want us to believe."
Alric: "You certainly don't seem to think you need to be told to know what someone really thinks."
Dex: "If she was I am sure she could handle just fine herself."
Raga Silvertail turns to look at Dex "Perhaps we should call Nadine into this little discussion."
Dex nods and goes and fetches her.
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As they approach, Raga tries his best smile (looks like a snarl) as he greets Nadine. "Greetings, sorry for this intrusion into your duties."
Nadine is one of the women among the guards. She appears to be in her early twenties, with the long blonde hair typical of the Ulfen. "Getting to the bottom of this incident is certainly part of my duty. But it just happened last night, and we thought it best to await Rollan's word on what happened, before taking any drastic measures."
Dex: "Yes sorry to pull you away for a while but we have some questions for you."
Nadine gestures for them to ask.
Dex: "From what we gathered it seems Rollan would often talk to you. Did he bother you?"
Nadine shakes her head. "He's a sweet young man, really. And so good with the horses. They can tell, you know. Hard to believe he was raised by bandits."
((Thus ended session 14.))
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After she spoke Raga moved his glare toward Alric.
Alric keeps his mouth shut.
Raga: "Very peculiar what you just said. Because Alric here was under the impression that he was bothering you." He keeps his eyes on Alric.
Nadine rolls her eyes. "It would not be the first time a man saw what he wanted to see."
Alric smiles sheepishly.
Raga looks at Dex quickly, then sighs "I still think you are hiding something from us about what happened. Did you two get into a fight?"
Nadine hesitates... "There is one thing, hardly worth mentioning. When we got there, the rake was on the floor, tines pointed down, end of the handle wedged among some others so it looked like a tripwire... but Svengald said he was sure he'd left all the tools upright in the racks." Nadine continues. "Of course, Svengald would hate to think he had anything to do with such an accident... and people sometimes remember things as they wished them to be as well."
"Perhaps it was moved to act as a sort of trip wire?" Dex then looks at Alric with a serious glare. "Alric I am giving you one last chance to come totally clean before things become worse. I know love can make a man do crazy things. But you seriously hurt someone. We all already gave you another chance for a better life but your tricks and continued lying makes me think we should consider. So last chance to come clean before I tell the others all about this and whether I think you still deserve this chance."
Alric returns the glare. "I have only told you the truth, and I stand by every word."
Dex turns to Raga. "What say you my friend? Still think he is hiding something?"
Raga: "Even after all this? What has gotten you so tight lipped? Are you taking the fall for someone?"
I know there is something you're not telling us, but to have it ruin your new found freedom? Tell us man, if its so serious, perhaps we can help"
Dex: "I suggest you take his advice, Alric."
Alric stares. "You're strong fighters, caught us like mice... but what cause do you have to be so certain about what other people are thinking?"
Raga: "Because reading people is something I am good at, and so far, you have been avoiding a certain part of your story, I am no mind reader, or this would have been over, but I am very certain you are leaving out something about what happened."
Dex: "I've known Raga to have good instincts and I trust them."
Alric snarls. "If you're so sure there's more to find, why don't you look for it elsewhere?"
Raga: "I do not think you meant any harm, so I wont go to the extreme, but for now, I think its best you are under guard till we can hear the other half of the story"
Alric grins at Nadine. "Looks like we'll be spending a bit more time together."
Dex: "I could use some magic on him. Might be able to get everything out of him. And if you really have nothing to hide this will prove it."
Raga shakes his head "If we force people like that, how will they ever learn to trust us, if we do not do the same."
Alric frowns. "I saw what your magic did to Kressle. Not like she told you what she really was thinking."
Nadine considers. "If he'd volunteered, it wouldn't have been forced... but he didn't."
Dex: "Which makes me more sure he is hiding something."
Raga: "I still do not like forcing things like this, unless we had no option, I would not like it done like that. But this time we still have options, we wait for him to recover and we can listen to his side. After that, we can decide"
Dex: "True. I only like using that magic when I have to and him hiding something has got me concerned for the others here. And I was hoping he volunteer for it to prove he had nothing to hide."
Raga: "So I suggest keep him under guard till we have both sides, but it is only a suggestion, if you all believe there should be done more, then I will defer to your rulings"
Dex: "Though maybe not a certain guard."
Nadine blushes. "You're welcome to escort him to Kesten, if you don't trust me with him."
Dex: "Its not that. I think it would be better to keep him under a guard he may not want to spend a lot of time with."
Raga: "Also, preferable not take the term 'under guard' literally," he chuckles. "Well, I will be heading back in, need to ask Jhod how the boy is doing"
Just then, Father Jhod comes out through the gate. "I hope I'm not interrupting?"
Raga: "We have temporarily put our questions on hold, waiting to hear from your ward"
Dex: "Not at all. How is the patient doing?
Jhod: "With Erastil's blessings, fully healed... but he hasn't been able to eat since the incident, and he awoke with a young man's typical appetite. He's enjoying Svetlana's cooking just now."
Raga:"That is good to hear, but I think we need to go ask him a few questions."
Dex: "If you think he is up to it.:
Father Jhod nods. "He should be....between bites at least."
Dex: "Then we will do so after we bring Alric back to the other guards."
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Once Alric is in Keston's custody, they find Rollan sitting at the farther long table, making a dent in a platter of eggs and bacon, Nikolai hovering worriedly nearby, and the clang of Svengald practicing drifting from the stables.
Dex: "Glad to see you up and healthy. Care to tell us what happened?"
Rollan looks up from his plate. "Mmmmuummfffrr."
Dex: "Maybe try again after swallowing."
Rollan visibly swallows. "What happened.. right. It's all a little blurry. I remember Alric going on about the fair Nadine again... Svengald had just banked the coals for the night and gone out to supper. I heard him putting the tools away just before Alric came in.."
Raga waits patiently. He isn't really one for talking. But he has noticed his presence sometimes helps to loosen tongues a bit.
Rollan continues. "Last thing I remember, Alric was saying Nadine was far too much woman for a boy like me and I'd never have her... I almost punched him, but Da would be disappointed if I got in trouble again, so I turned to get away from him. Get some space to cool off....then... I woke up with Father Jhod standing over me, and Da nearby and worried."
Raga:"Well that explains... almost nothing" he sighs from his spot.
"All I can think of at this point is that it is a prank gone wrong"
Dex: "Kind of figured he may not remember everything. We could go ask Svengald some questions."
Raga:"Guess we need to ask his father what he saw or thought he saw"
Nikolai speaks up. "Just a prank? By Iomedae's shield, you're naive. Alric was trying to kill my boy. And I won't give him another chance. I heard noise from the stable, and Rollan was late to supper, so I thought there might be a mess he needed help with and went in to check. What I found was that smug sneak bending over my boy and smirking, reaching for his neck!"
Raga: "The only reason for Alric to go after Rollan might be because of the woman they both fancy, but I didn't pick up any kind of ill intent from Alric toward Rollan. Unless you know something we don't"
Dex: "He was a bandit before all this Raga. Seems old habits may die hard."
Raga: "Perhaps you are right Dex. Maybe I try to project my attitude toward people onto others. If this is the case, I have a suspicion that Alric simply tried to teach Rollan a lesson, but it went south"
Dex: "I was hoping it to be something like that as well. Though it seems more sinister now."
Raga: "Maybe he was hiding the truth because he is scared we would do to him what we did to that other guy, Happs was his name?"
The reformed bandits nod.
Nikolai: "Yes, that was his name."
Raga: "Thank you. I am clumsy with names. Well. Perhaps if we can have the two sort out their differences in a ring? First to yield? Normally I would suggest first blood, but taking all of this into account, I do not think that is the wisest option."
Dex: "That isn't how we should do things. Rollan here has been doing his best at starting a new life and he got attacked. We gave Alric a chance but he injured Rollan severely and lied about it. And possibly was aiming to kill him. I think his second chance is done."
Nikolai looks reassured by Dex's opinion, and asks Raga, "If he tried this once, do you really think he'd stop after a bout, win or lose? Or just think up something sneakier?"
Raga sighs. These people had such strange ways. But here he is. Guess he had to accept that humans were... odd. "Very well. Do as you see fit."
Dex: "I can charm him to make sure but I think we may know what happened now."
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With that, our heroes go to the stall being adapted for use as a cell for Alric. Dex charms him and asks for the whole truth, the others waiting just outside, but out of the prisoner's line of sight.
Alric: "The little pest had been getting in the way for far too long. I only set up the potential for an accident." He smirks. "He could have avoided it if he'd been paying attention."
Dex: "And when it did. Did you try to finish the job?"
Alric: "I was checking for a pulse... if he was gone, there was no need to do more... if not..." He shrugged. "It was tempting, but I was the last person seen with him. I knew that wouldn't look good....there could be other misfortunes for a sadly accident-prone boy." he says with mock sorrow.
Dex: "And should someone else get in your way you would try to do the same to them?"
Dhurharen Smeltfoot folds her arms with a stern look on her face. "And ya thought th's gives you the right to do these things?"
Alric: "If they persisted... a man only has so much patience."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot looks over to dex, then shakes her head. "Some just can't be fixed, let justice be done b'fore he done someone else in."
Alric rolls his eyes. "Women... they just don't understand men, do they Dex?" He smiles at his new best-buddy.
Dex: "Don't think that's the problem here." Dex turns to the others. "Well we have our answer and now it's time to cast the sentence and carry it out."
Dhurharen Smeltfoot: "Ya have my vote. Law says execute bandits, this one almost added another murder to th'a list. Let the law be fulfilled. "
Alric looks around in confusion.
Dex fetches Raga and tells him their verdict. As he arrives, Dhurharen turns and pats his arm, asking for his agreement.
Raga Silvertail nods as he takes Alric by the arm, a bit of a grim expression on his face "I am not happy how this turned out, but you brought this on yourself. Will you come quietly, or do I force this?" he asks the man.
Dhurharen Smeltfoot returns to the forge, as Raga and Dex lead the man out of the post to the place of execution. "What'a waste." She mutters to herself.
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Alric: "All part of the plan, right?" He looks to Dex as he's led out.
Dex: "Sure."
Raga Silvertail sighs. "Alric you are sentenced to death on the charges of attempted murder and banditry" he then swings his blade.
Alric 's eyes widen as the executioner's falcata approaches, and reality briefly dawns on him.
Nadine looks down at the body. "Was this my fault? I should have seen what he'd be willing to do... talked him down somehow..."
Raga Silvertail shakes his head "You are not responsible for other's actions. He knew what was at stake, yet..."
Nadine nods, shivering as she looks down at the corpse. "You're right, of course. I just needed to hear it."
Raga sighs yet again "I hate when people bring these things on themselves, not out of honour, justice, nor even love. Just plain selfishness."
Dex: "We gave him a chance and he squandered it. His fate is his own doing. Though it is still a shame."
Nadine nods. "But we took our oaths to protect the innocent. The evil cannot be protected from themselves. Not without letting them add more innocent victims to the tally of their souls."
Some heavy clanging is heard from the forge, maybe more than is strictly needed for horseshoes.
Keston Garess: "I certainly wouldn't want to live in a world where the innocent were punished to protect the guilty."
Dex: "Neither would I. Now who would like to join me for a nice meal and a stiff drink to put this unpleasantness behind us."
Raga Silvertail claps his hands together "Let us do something to help us remind ourselves why we are here. And the good times we plan to have."
The guards smile at this suggestion.
Raga Silvertail: "Haha! Great minds my friend, great minds!"
Dex: "I'll buy the first round. Raga you get the second."