Lost Farrain [IC]

[Maerok]

Introduction:

You're arriving by carriage with a load of supplies from the distant command center, Thevadale - home to the Order's efforts to reclaim a large spread of land long ago taken from the human kingdoms. The besieged town of Farrain is not too far off now. In the hundred years since the orc clan took over no force has been able to challenge them until now - reclaiming the land had seemed a lost cause.

Captain Rhomyr, head of the Thevadale outpost to the Order of Pelor, chose Farrain to be the first major victory as it would serve to be a symbolic gesture when its once famous temple to the many gods of benevolence is reclaimed. The captain's war plan was sanctioned by the Order itself but would receive no additional troops for the foreseeable future. The latest word places the advancing force at the edge of the woods that surround the clearing that encompasses the town and its farmlands.

You've been hired to assist the Order in reclaiming the town and then to recover any important relics you may find as the paladins move out to continue their march. The town of Farrain was an unrealized cultural icon in its time and may still contain a wealth of historic and valuable treasures. But after its fall there is now more to be found than just harmless trinkets.


The Road to Farrain
"A sunrise like this is an omen. Pelor's might is with us this day." The carriage driver, Toenn, speaks softly as the sun reaches up from its nightly rest. One of the four horses at the front snorts as if to agree.

Trees continue to pass by the carriage windows, as they have done for the last twenty miles of forest, but the town is within reach. The trip has been pleasant enough but there's a sense of restlessness now. You are in the carriage with your fellow companions, all hired to accomplish the task at hand.

The small caravan is comprised of the team of horses pulling a carriage linked to a wagon loaded with rations and supplies for the Order's attack. Periodically a pair of scouts on horseback ride alongside the cart and run ahead of the wagon to check for ambushes; for the moment they are gone. The sounds of the battle ahead are yet to reach you through the wooden domain.

[Sduser]

Clink... Clink... Clink... As time passed he would pick his sword, the tip held down towards the floor of their transport, upwards and let it fall with a metallic thud. Time was passing too slow for his taste, too much time sitting in one spot. Beneath his helmet, his eyes were shut as he counter each moment in his head.

The warrior sat above move other men, his family armor worn beneath a furred cape. A few strands of his obsidian hairs riding out of the few crevices of said helmet. The task sounded fun, and it wasn't anything worse than what he had did before. The gold was good, and that was what mattered. Twirling the Greatsword in place as he opened his eyes, an annoyed and impatient sigh leaving him.

[mozae]

Sidar was relieved that there was a break in the silence, for it had left him alone with his thoughts. I'm sure Pelor is with US, but WE, my brave man, are going to be doing the fighting while you ride back to Thevadale. He wanted, no, he needed more knowledge, but he knew one of these adventures would be his last and he asked himself if it was worth it. He smiled to himself when he thought of what the average gnome back home would write on his epitath: "Sidar, he died looking for scrolls".

After a brief pause Sidar utters, "Well if no one is going to speak up, I will begin boring you to sleep with my vast knowledge of orcs...and seeing how no one wants to hear that I suggest we start formulating a strategy before we have knives at our throats."

[greenstave]

Rand sits quietly at the back of the caravan, constantly looking out the rear for any signs of trouble. His bow is at the ready. Every so often he would catch a glimpse of one of the scouts on horses moving about, keeping watch. That is what he should be doing. Not sitting. He asked the commander that much, but was turned away. He needs to be fresh and ready for battle when he arrives, they said.

He turns to look at Mozae. I agree, but we are just on our way to a forward camp. I am sure there will be strategies waiting for us. I, for one, can't wait to get into the orc encampments and tear them apart. They are wretched creatures who have been stealing the land of goodly folks for a century. We are going to stop them."

He turns his gaze back to the rear of the wagon, and stares as the path, and forrests, slowly wind behind them.

[TheTick]

"Well and truly spoken, Master Gnome. I know a little about Orcs, and enough on where to stab 'em. But please go on, the silence is maddening. The name's Niles, by the way." He sticks out a hand to shake, and will do so vigorously to anyone that so much as comes in range. He has a shock of brown hair, bleached blonde in streaks by the sun, and a wide, friendly face. If no hands are offered in return, he will shrug and wrap his cloak around him, and try to catch a few minutes of sleep.

[Sduser]

By now his blade had left a few decent marks in the floorboard. He stopped twirling said blade for a moment to look up, his helmet aimed at those he was traveling with as the silence was broken by something other then the horses. If they could see his face, they would know he was smirking a bit.

With a cockiness that could have only been gained by experience, the warrior spoke as well, "We are all anxious to get to the fun, atleast. Hopefully once battle begins, we will all keep the same level of excitement."

Anouther series of clinks from his blade, as he resumes lifting it up and dropping the tip into the wood below. While not shaking his fellow adventurers hand(s), he was atleast giving them his attention.

[TheTick]

Niles grunted. "We shall see. Don't think there's any artistry in fighting Orcs. Brutes. Now, pirates, THEY have style!" You can't quite tell whether he's serious or not.

[Virtue]

"..."

Some of his best friends were Orcs.

But that was a different time. A different world.

Ghi' remained silent. The thick cloak wrapped around his body, the hood leaving his face in shadow. There was only one reason he had accepted a group mission; the coin. And this one should prove to pay quite well. But the company...

He frowned in the darkness of his hood, and simply remained resting against the back of the wagon. He clutched his backpack tighter into his body. It wasn't that he had something against humans, but it wasn't that they were his favorite race either. His tribe had dealt with humans before, but the nomads of the desert were far different than the stable villages elsewhere.

So often, did he miss the desert sands of his home, that the cool chilly atmosphere of this climate would often shake him to his bones. His constant thoughts would drift to the sole purpose he engaged in these mercenery ordeals, and he knew that when he was strong and rich enough, he would one day, find his way back to his tribe and enrich it. Maybe even find a nice Bhuka girl and...

Ghi's reverie was somewhat broken, by a bump the wagon rolled over, and it shook him against the wall. He let out a faint growl, and rubbed his head, before curling back against the side of the wagon.

He would let the others talk and plan and pretend they knew what they were doing. The only reason that most considered hiring him in the first place, was to keep people alive anyway. No one ever questioned him on his own life and purpose, nor seemed to care more about him than beyond the realization that he was in fact a Goblinoid. Perhaps, he was better off that way anyway.

He hadn't come to the human lands to make friends anyway.

Ghi simply lowered his head, closing his eyes, and waited to head to their destination.

[Sduser]

Sebastion crooked a grin beneath the helm, "In a straight fight, an Orc will outmatch a Pirate. They are born warriors, regardless of their primal roots. Regardless of how Artsy their styles are, I've lost more companions to orcs than I ever will Pirates."

Purposely leaving out the fact that reason is because he will never step foot on a ship unless he downright had to, and thus would probably never meet a pirate in his life.

[Maerok]

The Road to Farrain

There's a sudden shout in the woods off to the left.
And one to the left, followed by heavy hooves.
It's getting closer to your position now.
Someone is approaching very fast.
Right at you from both sides.
But then the noise stops.
It's quiet for a moment.
If you try to listen -

BANG!

One of the scouts slammed directly into the side of the cart.

SWOOOSSHHHHHH!

His counterpart skids in front of the team of horses before him and his mount tumble across the side of the trail.

The whole wagon assembly, with you all inside, shakes violently. Toenn tries his best in all his many years of driving to maintain control but it begins to tip. It's tipping now. And soon enough it's tipping sideways - sky and ground become one.

[Maerok]

Rolls:
Please make a DC 15 roll in OOC to avoid a most unpleasant landing.
(Choose one: Climb/Jump/Tumble/Strength/Dexterity/Reflex)

If you pass:
You ride the tipping cart safely. Roll initiative.
If you fail:
Roll 1d6 damage and knocked prone. Roll initiative but you'll have to try and get up for your first turn.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand lets out a curse as the scout slams the side of the cart.

Being right at the back, Rand easily rolls with the tipping cart and avoids any serious damage. He quickly draws his bow and prepares to act.


init: [roll0]

[Virtue]

Suddenly the cart is violently shaken, and Ghi' is pulled from his thoughts into the real world.

"What in Kossuth is going in here?!"

Ghi is thrown from his seat, and desperately lunges forward in an attempt to steady himself. His mind reels between saving himself, and saving his possessions, including his private jar within his backpack.

Steady Attempt :

Reflex Save : [roll0]


If successful :

Initiative : [roll1]


If failed :

Damage : [roll2]
Status : Prone

[Sduser]

Sebastion's eyes went wide, spouting a low curse as the carriage began to tip. He moved with the carriage, grabbing on to what he could as he tried to keep himself upright, finally pulling himself out of the carriage when it met the ground. Sword already drawn, as he let the fur cloak fall from his shoulders and land on the ground behind him. THIS is what he knew best.

Initiative Roll
[roll0]

[TheTick]

Niles expertly rolls out of the tipping cart and bounces up onto his feet, landing with a flourish. He scans quickly to see what has happened.

Initiative: [roll0]

[Virtue]

Ghi' is thrown from the carriage and lands face first, tumbling into the dust. A rock had cut him in his arm, and he winces at the pain. His body aches, as he lays prone on the ground, still in a state of shock.

The hood was thrown back, and the Bhuka glares, as he tries to look out at what happened to the cart. We're the under attack, or did they hit something?

[Maerok]

Combat! Round 1
Following the shock you all can see the remains of the two scouts - each stuck in the back with a few black arrows. And as the dust settles from either side of the trail come two roaring orcs with falchions gleaming as they cut through the underbrush to get to you.

The one on the right moves deftly over thorns and weaves around tree trunks as a bloodlust begins to take hold in its mad eyes.

Turn Order:
Ghi - 20 (caught by surprise attack; down for the turn)
Orc(Right; 30 feet from carts) - 19
Niles 11 (higher Dex breaks tie)
Sebastion 11
Rand 10
Orc(Left; 60 feet from carts)- 4

Orc Details:

The orcs are wearing studded leather with a shield strapped to their backs. They keep to the shadows even though the sunlight isn't bright enough to dazzle them yet.

[Maerok]

Combat! Round 1
Following the shock you all can see the remains of the two scouts - each stuck in the back with a few black arrows. And as the dust settles from either side of the trail come two roaring orcs with falchions gleaming as they cut through the underbrush to get to you.

The one on the right moves deftly over thorns and weaves around tree trunks as a bloodlust begins to take hold in its mad eyes.

Turn Order:
Ghi - 20 (caught by surprise attack; move action spent to get up)
Orc(Right; 30 feet from carts) - 19
Niles 11 (higher Dex breaks tie)
Sebastion 11
Rand 10
Sidar - 5 (caught by surprise attack; move action spent to get up)
Orc(Left; 60 feet from carts)- 4

Orc Details:

The orcs are wearing studded leather with a shield strapped to their backs. They keep to the shadows even though the sunlight isn't bright enough to dazzle them yet.

[Virtue]

Orcs? Here, now?!

Ghi' quickly pulled himself up, and tried to steady himself against the overturned wagon. The other assorted strangers were just as surprised as he, and were arming themselves and preparing for battle. The goblin gritted his teeth, and emptied his mind, letting his divine power trickle down his fingertips. A cool, orange glow filled the amulet around his neck, as he muttered quietly.

"I'm not getting paid enough for this."

He placed his hands together, and whispered the name of his God, and with a quick burst of wind, a devious pale orange fog emanated and circled from his body, flowing out around him. His image blurred, as the goblin got lost in the divine fog, and the mist spread out around him.

"At least I'll be safe." Ghi'chinik muttered again, too low for any to hear. If push came to shove, he could defend himself, but until then, let the Orcs attempt to fight in the Fog. As he took a step back, he silently dared them.


Ghi'chinik Niski
HP : 31 (33)
AC : 24
Misc. Action : Move Back 5 Feet
Free Action : Speech
Swift Action : -NA-
Move Action : Recovering Prone
Standard Action : Casting Obscuring Mist
Target : Self
Duration : 5 Minutes
Effect : A misty vapor arises around you. It is stationary once created. The vapor obscures all sight, including darkvision, beyond 5 feet. A creature 5 feet away has concealment (attacks have a 20% miss chance). Creatures farther away have total concealment (50% miss chance, and the attacker cannot use sight to locate the target).

[mozae]

Sidar, still reeling from being thrown from the carriage lays flat on the ground. With eyes still out of focus, the wetness on his back is the first thing he notices and a light pain. Thats too much liquid to be blood. Glass... it's glass....its a shattered potion.

After a few choice gnomish swears under his breath, Sidar realizes that he hadn't yet discovered the reason for the crash. As he stumbles to his feet he reaches around to his back and removes the small glass shard from his lower back.

With the haze clearing from his eyes he quickly realizas that a shattered potion is the least of his worries. Bolts! Where are my bolts?, and he begins fumbling through his pack to retrieve them...

[TheTick]

Niles feels his pulse quicken as he spots the Orcs. One of his carriage-mates conjures a strange mist, and Niles steps just outside the edge so he can train his bow on an Orc. To the one on the left he yells "Hey ugly! Did your mother try to scrub your face with a washboard?" He follows that up with a shot from his crossbow.

[roll0]
[roll1]

Niles then drops the bow and steps back 5 feet into the mist and (if need be on the next turn) readies his rapier and dagger.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand recovers from the falling wagon and quickly looks for the nearest attacker. Orcs! Of course it is. He quickly moves outside of the mist and takes a shot at the closest orc. After shooting, he moves away once more.


Without a map I am assuming I can do all this!

Move 15ft. to get an Orc within a 30ft. range. Attack with Skirmish.

attack: [roll0]
crit: [roll1]
damage: [roll2]
Extra skirmish damage: [roll3]

Move back 15ft. into obscuring mist. Also receives +1 to AC for moving at least 10ft. in the round

[Sduser]

Sebastion - Initiative 11

Sebastion charges up to the front of the Carriage, sword held ready in his hands, looking out at the small attack party. Slamming the blunt side of his sword against his armor a couple times, as if challenging the orcs's might or courage. Though keeping himself in front of his companions so that he could keep them out of harm.

Translation: 10-15ft movement to the front of the carriage, since I can only move 20 due to heavy armor. Attempting to taunt the orcs into coming at me rather than the others. Will roll if DM decides it has a chance to work.

[Maerok]

Ghi's fog surprises the advancing warriors. They begin to circle around to the sides unsure of where to attack.

Orc1 advances to the edge of the fog where Niles pops out to shoot it with his bow before moving back into the mist.

Sebastion's taunt draws Orc 2's attention while Rand shoots it in the shoulder. The creature growls and lumbers up to Sebastion as it swings its blade overhead. The sharpened, bloodied edge glances off his armor and carves a deep cut into the forest floor near his feet.

Round 2:

http://i.imgur.com/08yGQ.png

Initiative:
22 - Orc Scout
20 - Ghi
19 - Orc1
11 - Niles
11 - Sebastion
10 - Rand
5 - Mozae


From under the dead foliage on the ground pops up an orc scout with a bow trained on Sebastion. The creature fires a pair of black arrows at the warrior, hitting him in the shoulder once. (Orc Scout appears, initiative 22; Sebastion -3hp)

[Virtue]

Ghi' hears the sound of battle, as the Orcs get closer. The other mercenaries around him call for battle, but Ghi' is unable to see much outside of the fog.

Though, that was the point.

The goblin runs forward and to the front of the wagon, his back against the wood. He clasps his amulet in his fingers again, and calls on his divine power.

It isn't a spell he normally would cast on his own, but in these circumstances, it seemed best to aid the others, and let them do the work.

Muttering a simple prayer to his diety, an orange power seeps down from Ghi's fingertips, illuminating in a dim orange, every ally or enemy within range.


Ghi'chinik Niski
HP : 31 (33)
AC : 24
Misc. Action : -NA-
Free Action : -NA-
Swift Action : -NA-
Move Action : Move to G5
Standard Action : Casting Prayer
Area : All allies and foes within a 40-ft.-radius burst center on myself.
Duration : 5 Rounds
Effect : You bring special favor upon yourself and your allies while bringing disfavor to your enemies. You and your each of your allies gain a +1 luck bonus on attack rolls, weapon damage rolls, saves, and skill checks, while each of your foes takes a -1 penalty on such rolls.

[TheTick]

Niles hears arrows all around, and reminds himself to stay low. He angles out about 10 feet further south and east, staying within the edge of the mist, hoping to catch the near Orc unawares. Either way, if he can get to the Orc, he's attacking.

Niles
Move to H10
1d20+11
1d20+9
Attack rolls if needed, -2 for each hand TWF, +1 Prayer bonus since I act after Ghi.

[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll=Sneak Attack with +6 for Craven feat]2d6+6

[Sduser]

Sebastion - Initiative 11

Sebastion let out a low growl as the arrow pierced his armor, but shrugged the pain off without much worry. It wasn't a life threatoning wound, at the least. He stepped toward the orc who's blade had glanced him, roaring aloud with a warlike rage, his sword pulling up earth as he swung in an upward arc, aiming to cleave the orc in two.

Greatsword attack against Orc 2

Roll to hit: [roll0] +1 for Prayer
Damage: [roll1] +1 for Prayer

[mozae]

He felt a wave of positive energy at the same time his fingers finally located a shaft of a bolt berried deep within his pack. Thank you goblin, Sidar thought, already more more valuable than a dwarf.

Without hesitation he drew the crossbow and notched the bolt. The closest target was engaged with Niles alone. Two against one is better odds, he thought at he advanced toward the Orc to the left of the wrecked carriage. He then lift the crossbow and aimed at the Orc's right eye and let lose the bolt...

[greenstave]

Rand sees the scout appear. He recognizes the purpose of the scout right away, and yells at his companions. "If he gets back to their hoard, they will know we are here, we have to stop him"

Rand launches into action running towards the scout. He takes a shot with his longbow.


Move to B5.
Attack with longbow: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] + Skirmish damage: [roll2]
If the Orc is chaotic add damage: [roll3]

[Maerok]

Round 2 Results
As Ghi's prayer goes up the orc on the right steps into the mist and swings around at where Nile had retreated to before. Niles is able to sneak out behind it and strike it in the back, dropping the orc warrior into the fog as it begins dying. Sidar's bolt misses the orc and hits a tree instead.

Sebastion deals a heavy blow to his orc and Rand's arrow plants itself firmly in the throat of the now dead orc scout. The remaining orc roars and swings at Sebastion but misses with its falchion.

Round 3

http://i.imgur.com/WqsoS.png

Orc 1 is now dying. And the Scout is dead.

Initiative:
20 - Ghi
11 - Niles
11 - Sebastion
10 - Rand
5 - Mozae
4 - Orc2

[Virtue]

Ghi' felt the effects of Prayer shadow over the enemies and allies within reach. The orange glow faded from his finger tips, and he glanced out into the fog.

Though his vision was still obscured, he could still hear the sound of battle, and feel the wood against his back, signifying the overturned cart.

Ghi' looked around, but couldn't see anyone immediately nearby, so the goblinoid, simply brandished his shield and held it before him, prepared to defend his life, should any Orc attempt to attack him, or fire in his direction.

"Won't get paid, if ya don't survive." Ghi'chinik mumbles to himself, as he places his shield firmly in hand, preparing for anyone to come close to him, just in case.

Ghi'chinik Niski
HP : 31 (33)
AC : 28 (24)
Misc. Action : -NA-
Free Action : Ready Shield
Swift Action : -NA-
Move Action : -NA-
Standard Action : Total Defense Action
Target : Self
Duration : 1 Round
Effect : You can defend yourself as a standard action. You get a +4 dodge bonus to your AC for 1 round. Your AC improves at the start of this action. You can’t combine total defense with fighting defensively or with the benefit of the Combat Expertise feat (since both of those require you to declare an attack or full attack). You can’t make attacks of opportunity while using total defense.

[TheTick]

Niles paused for a moment to ensure the Orc in front of him stayed down. "Brave...but reckless." With no other enemies here, he decides to head back to the other side of the wagon to check on the status of things there.

Move to F4. Should be OK with my normal 30ft of move.

[mozae]

Sidar, lets the Orc lie and heads back towards the last standing enemy closing the most the most distance possible.

[Virtue]

Ghi' remains standing with his back against the overturned wagon, and his heavy shield straight in front of him. He thinks he hears someone shout something, but he isn't paying attention, focused only on protecting himself.

With the fog around him, and his mind set on defense, he knows there is little chance that he won't survive the current battle.

Even if everyone else doesn't.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand sees his travellers getting into positions, but decides to end this Orc attack. He moves into position, and fires his bow at the remaining Orc. After his shot, he subtly moves back into the mist, obscuring himself from the orc in case of retaliation.


Move to F3
attack:
damage: [roll1] plus Skirmish damage: [roll2]
If the Orc is chaotic, add [roll]226
Move to F5

[Maerok]

Rand's shot kills the final orc with a blow to the chest. The forest is quiet now that the battle has passed.

Combat over!

[TheTick]

Once the mist clears, Niles let's out a long sigh. He will retrieve his crossbow from where he dropped it and check on the status of the carriage and horses.

"Has anyone seen the carriage driver? Does he live? And what of the carriage itself?" Niles stops short. "And if any of the Orcs live, we should see what information we might get from them. If there's an Orc encampment behind the lines, the Clerics and Paladins of Pelor will need to know."

[greenstave]

I am going to scout around the area, see if there are anymore and try to find out where they came from. I'll be back soon.

Rand looks at the not yet dead Orc and adds: I wouldnt take a hostage. These creatures know not but blood and fighting.

With that he heads off into the woods around the path looking for signs of more orcs, of one that might not have shown itself, and of which way they came from


Let me know what rolls you want. Searches, move silently, hide, etc
Heading off now. Will post again tomorrow morning

[Virtue]

Ghi' mentally dismisses the obscuring mist, as the last sound of battle dies away.

The forest clears, and Ghi'chini sheathes his shield again behind him. Glancing out over the battlefield, he notices the overturn cart.

Seeing the survivors begin to gather, he ignores them for a moment, and looks to see if anyone is hurt or dead.

Ghi' begins to look for injured or dead NPC's.
Spot : [roll0]
Search : [roll1]
Appraise : [roll2]
In particular he will look for the rider and those nearby. He will go through their possessions and take anything of value.

[Maerok]

Toenn, the driver, had been hiding under a broken part of the overturned carriage. The contents of the wagon have spilled onto the ground - a shipment of weapons, food, some basic medicine supplies, and armor components. He's okay and begins tending to the horses.

The fallen riders are dead. Ghi finds a few meager trinkets. (I'll PM.)

As far as anyone can tell, you are all alone for now.

(Can continue tomorrow, I have to attend to something tonight.)

[TheTick]

Niles nudges the cart with with his foot. "Can it be fixed? I'm not much of a craftsman, I'm afraid." His gaze shifts to the supplies. "If the cart is a loss, we'll need to load up the horses with as much of this as we can and press on. My haversack has some room as well."

Niles is avoiding the subject of the non-dead Orc until he knows more about the carriage.

[Sduser]

Sebastion grunted, pulling the arrow out of his armor before sheathing his sword. "They best be glad I only felt the arrow, otherwise this was going to be allot more gruesome." Moving back to the cart as he grabbed his fur cloak from the ground, throwing it back over his shoulders.

[mozae]

"Toenn, since the horses' rigging appears to be in good order do you suppose we could fashion a sled? Anything left over we would have to hide or destroy. The items in the hands of the Orcs will just prolong this entire affair. Either way we must be hasty or we will be fighting again on this ground."

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand returns to the group. I see no sign of any more orcs. We are safe, for now. We have to gather as much together as we can and get going. If we don't make it to the camp of Pelor, we will likely encounter more orcs, and that may not go well for us.

He then turns his squinting eyes to the not-yet-dead orc. He speaks in perfect orcish:


Where did your group come from? Did you know we were coming this way, or just get lucky? Answer me quick, or this won't go well for you.


Rand pulls out his daggar to accentuate his point.

[Virtue]

Ghi' continued to loot the dead bodies, as he stuffed coin and items in his bag.

Looking up, he noticed the other survivors interrogating a living Orc.

Ghi'chini thought for a moment about heading to there and helping, but decided to continue taking stuff first.

Hey...

When opportunity knocks, right?

[Maerok]

Toenn mulls over the wreckage carefully. He pushes against the broken frame and tests a few of the wheels experimentally. After a little thought he looks hopeful. "We could make a sled or meager cart of some sort. Between that and the horses we can only take half the supplies I'd imagine."

The orc Rand is interrogating looks up at him, answering in proud orcish:

"Luck? You fools defy the strength, the skill of my clan and the favor of its divine warlord. I spit at you, human scum."

The orc spits.

[TheTick]

Niles doesn't speak Orcish, but the tone and the spit at the end tells him enough. "Fool! You're condemning yourself to death!" He stalks off shaking his head to help Toenn work on what's left of the carriage.

[mozae]

"Well if there was to be another carriage soon, maybe we could leave the remaining goods...not destroy them that is.

Did the Orc say anything of value? I can not understand a word of their spoken tongue."

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand quietly wipes the spit from his face.

In orcish:

Tell me something useful right now, or your life is forfeit. This is your only chance.

[Virtue]

Ghi'chini finishes looting from the dead, deftly placing whatever items he recovered among his possessions. He feels no remorse, death is simply a factor of life, and one he has witnessed far too often in the desert sands of his home.

Hefting his backpack against his shoulder, the bhuka cleric wanders beside the survivors, maintaining his distance, and simply listens as a few men interrogate a surviving Orc, that had been in the enemy attack.

Though his father had been able to speak Orcish, Ghi' had never learned, and simply listened to the garbled, guttural speak going on. The Orc's he was used to, of the Scablands, spoke both common and his own native language, so he wasn't used to the more diverse customs of the colder, temperate regions.

[Maerok]

The orc looks around at the group. It hesitates but eventually answers:

"You've bested my hunting party - I yield to a few questions. The clan will defend what it has taken rightfully by force from your kind so long ago. Varnef decrees it!"


Meanwhile Toenn begins to lay out pieces of the carriage with Niles. He sorts through some of the supplies and asks "What should be left behind for now?" Sebastion volunteers to stay behind to guard the remains until another caravan passes through.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand listens to the orc and then repeats in common Varnef...who is he?


Knowledge local on the name: [roll0]


Back in Orcish, while the others are cleaning up and stocking up.

Where is your camp? What kind of numbers do you have there? Surely the mighty clan of Varnef is not affraid of....5 simple warriors." Rand accentuates his point by waving his arm in the direction of his companions, who are toiling away collecting what meagre supplies they can from broken crates.

[TheTick]

Niles speaks up from behind Rand. "I've heard a bit about this...Varnef. He's an aspect of Gruumsh worshiped by the Grodash clan of orcs. Stupid enough to challenge Gruumsh himself, and fail. For his hubris Varnef was imprisoned in black chains to be a personal attendant to the god for all times. Grodash orcs wear lengths of sacred chain to indicate their status in the clan and as a tribute to their patron. They also use those-" gesturing at the ugly black arrow sticking out of Sebastion's armor "-made from the bones of fallen enemies. Nasty customers."

[Virtue]

Ghi' remains nearby, quiet and not in the way. He found it was usually for the best, not simply as a goblinoid, but as a cleric too. The bhuka let out a simple sigh, and simply let the humans to their work. He had assumed they were all strangers, but now they seemed to work well together. He mentally shrugged and let it be. He had witnessed it before. Groups of adventurers, travelers and merceneries, usually of humans, would somehow always get along, as if they knew each other for years. He wondered if he cared why, but he realized he didn't. Ghi' simply chalked it up to the laws of the universe.

Humans, huh.

He heard the Orc talk about something, but Ghi' paid little attention. He simply waited for this group to continue forward, on their current mission.

[Maerok]

Niles doesn't make much leeway in making the scout horses useful. He does manage to keep them from running away however but they're still restless.

The orc laughs, blood trickling from his mouth slightly:

"Ahead. The way is marked by four broken saplings where the road crosses a stream. If you seek death, it will be my clanfolk to avenge my squad. And when - when you fall to our m-m-might, Varnef will claim you."

The life begins to fade from the captive orc.

[mozae]

"Niles, let me try to calm those beasts. Maybe my stature would be a little less imposing. And if they run off, no loss, they're are useless as is." A frown came across his face. "We do not have time for this", thought Sidar. He handed the reigns back to Niles an headed back to the supplies. As he began packing the good he thought, "Those horses are so wild they would rather eat me than listen."

"We should be moving soon...the Orc has friends I'm sure,"said Sidar with a worried look on his face. He studied the maps in his head trying to recall the region surrounding Farrain.

"Ghi, If you help with the supplies it might save your skin." Sidar was feeling uneasy about the road and their chances if they lingered. He knew that these scouts would be missed by someone and his traveling group would make for easy targets, especially to a throng of stampeding Orcs.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand looks over at Sidar as he speaks. Then he looks back to the orc.

Orcish:

Your kind has stolen the last of the lands it will steal around here. I am here to make sure of it. We will find your camp, and we will send all of its orcs back to Varnef's side. You may die now


Rand turns and walks away from the orc, leaving it to die on it's own.

There is an orc camp up ahead, if what this orc says is true. Four broken saplings where the road crosses the stream marks the way. I can scout ahead if you want, otherwise we should continue on our journey to our own camp. What say you all?

[TheTick]

Niles is bouncing lightly on the balls of his feet. "Yes, let's get moving. I'm feeling more exposed here by the minute." He glances at the Orc. "If there's an ambush ahead, we can't afford to waste any healing on him, but the Orc has earned a quick death, if nothing else." If no one else moves to do it, Niles will kneel over the Orc, say a short prayer to Pelor, and end his life in whatever way he feels will be the quickest.

To Rand, Niles adds "Friend, scouting ahead is a good idea. Perhaps we can each split up and check each side of the road. If we can get the drop on these Orcs, we can make the road safer for future supply runs."

[Virtue]

Ghi' raised his eyebrow, his hood had already once again covered his head. A human nearby had addressed him as 'goblin', an epithet he was used to, asking for assistance in loading supplies.

The Bhuka shrugged quietly, and moved to begin loading the rest of the supplies into the available pack horses. As he finished, it seemed that they had decided to split up and search ahead in the forest, to see for any Orcs.

Ghi' was fine with that, he usually worked better alone. He would wait until e others have continued to move forward, and he would as well, going in whichever path, the others didn't, keeping his eye out for any Orcs.

[mozae]

"I say we check in at Farrain before we get brave. It would be advantageous to have someone know of our plans and have the possibility of saving us should we fall into trouble. We can always double back after we drop off the supplies and deliver Toenn safely."

[Virtue]

Ghi' would have preferred simply continuing, rather than going all the way back. They were mercenaries afterall, danger was in their line of work. Still, the goblin remained quiet and waited for the group to come to a decision. He had finished loading the supplies onto the horse, and no one seemed too damaged as to require divine healing. Though, his personal definition of 'needing healing,' bordered on someone who was actively dying. The goblin shrugged again.

[greenstave]

Agreed. Let's head to our destination. We can come back for the orcs. I will scout ahead to make sure we are not taken by surprise again

[TheTick]

"Yes, let's do that. If we are going to take on an entire Orc camp, I'd prefer to do it with a dozen paladins at my side."

[mozae]

"Toenn, are you ready to move out? Or, is there something else we can assist with?"

[Virtue]

Ghi' folds his arms, as he waits by the horses. It seems the decision was to continue to Farain camp. So be it.

The cleric adjusted his hood, and remains quiet and observant.

[Maerok]

Toenn shakes his head, "I might be getting along in my years but I can still handle myself, good sir." Your caravan, slightly more disheveled now since its first departure, slowly plods to a steady pace through the Freymill Woods. Though you haven't gotten full control over the new horses they're able to carry the remainder of your goods without fuss.

(From the orc encounter you've all earned 360XP and 420gp.)

Farrain isn't too distant now and it's only a solid day's worth of travel. As you begin to approach the woodland exit a figure caught in the sunlight streaming in approaches you all. As they get closer you see a glint of sunlight off their armor and the flutter of a faded red tabard in the breeze.

The paladin hails you all from down the road with one hand on a sword at their hip. "Aye, what a sorry lot of travelers you all must be to arrive in such a time of war! Be you friends or foes?"

[TheTick]

Niles makes sure to keep his hands visible. "Friends indeed, and you are a welcome sight. We come bearing supplies bound for the campaign at Farrain. As for our disheveled appearance, well, we had a bit of a tussle with some Orcs along the way."

[mozae]

Sidar is visibly relieved at the site of the paladins. He is more than happy to let the big folks do the talking. But what about the other one, the hooded one, he hasn't said anything yet.

[Virtue]

Ghi'chini seemed apprehensive at the incoming paladins. He shielded his hood deeper, and moved beside the horses, to allow the others to stay at the front. He notices the gaze of the gnome watching him, and the goblin feels uneasy, but ignores him until addressed or provoked.

[Maerok]

"Oh right, I heard we had something headed up this way. My name is Galdor, of the Order of Pelor. If you bring supplies for the war effort come along! I can show you around the camp and you must be in need of decent food and drink." Galdor eases out of his martial stance slightly, still not willing to be overtaken by a possible band of vagabonds.

[mozae]

Sidar, notices the defensive actions of his traveling companion, but thinks better of saying anything in front of the paladins. Niles has seems to have the favor of these guards, might as well let him do the talking for now.

[TheTick]

"Our carriage was damaged, but we managed to salvage most of the supplies. Also we have information about a possible Orc encampment."

[Maerok]

"That would be useful information then. Captain Rhomyr is due to arrive at some rate - I've heard she's been delayed by inclement weather back in Thevadale. In the meantime I can take you to the lieutenant paladin."

Galdur seems appeased and beckons you all to follow out of the woods. "Do you require assistance of any sort? I could carrying something if you need."

[TheTick]

Niles looks at each of his traveling companions and lets them speak to their own needs before saying "If Toenn can handle the supplies and horses, I have all of my possessions with me. I'm ready to move on."

[mozae]

"Uh Sir, ...Galdor," Sidar began not knowing how to address the paladin, "I find my self in need of scrolls, are there merchants where we are headed?"

"Our last encounter, has made it painfully obvious to me that my studies have been lacking in certain areas."

[Maerok]

"We have a scant selection of them at camp and I'm sure the clergy and few magisters can assist you with that. But if you're looking to earn your keep, Farrain's library should still hold a trove of spells. The orcs have barricaded the town though."

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand appears to join up with the group from the side. As Galdor turns to regard the newcommer, Rand provides him a salute from an army no longer active. One the orcs had long since overcome.

Sir, your left flank has been left exposed, if you have men to spare, the tree line there, and there, would provide appropriate cover for early warning. We have intel of an orc encampment. If you can provide a map, I can mark it.

[Maerok]

"A map would be up in the command center. We'll stop by there first on the tour. Someone will be around to help put away the goods."

Galdor leads you all out of the woods and down the road. It's a nice day but there's a great tension in the air. Off in the distance is Farrain, behind looming palisade walls at the top of a hill. The elaborate arches of the temple within can just barely be seen from the woodland edge.

You come to the paladin encampment below the town hill. It's a few ordered rows of tents and fallen trees which have been used to construct bunkers in the earth. It appears to have been built around the remains of an old plot of farmland.

Your traveling band is noticed and Galdor waves your party on. Those of you with keen eyes can make out the archers placed in the shadows of the bunkers. The town is huge now, it's arched temple now clearly visible from behind the orcish wall and its solid gate.

Plenty of black arrows stick out of from the paladin constructions and around on the ground, all apparently fired from the walls of the entrenched town. It doesn't take too long to arrive at the command center - the old farmhouse of the plot the camp has been set up on.

Galdor knocks four times on the door. A shutter slides open and soon you are let inside. The farmhouse is occupied by a small gathering of unarmored paladins in white tabards. Your host whispers to one of them and the warrior looks amused. He breaks away from his discussion with the others and address you all.

"I am Lieutenant Nollas, currently the ranking officer of this engagement. Sir Galdor has informed me that you bear information that may be vital to our conflict."

[TheTick]

Niles takes in the camp with interest. He wonders just how well the camp would hold up to an Orc advance. Still, they had Pelor on their side, and the Sun god was a powerful ally. As he and the other travelers are brought before and introduced to Lieutenant Nollas, Niles bows respectfully. "Lieutenant, it is a pleasure to meet you. I'll get right to it - we were waylaid by Orcs on the way here, and it appears they have an encampment not far off the road. Your supply carriages won't be safe until it is investigated and dealt with."

[mozae]

Niles seemed to have the conversation in order. Sidar was content waiting off to the side. Actually he was getting hungry and wished the conversation would end soon.

[Maerok]

"Behind our lines? If this is true then there is serious danger in leaving our backs exposed." Nollas snaps his fingers at a paladin officer who digs around in a canvas sack. The officer hands him a rolled piece of canvas and aids the lieutenant in pinning it to the wall. (It's already in the OOC.)

"Our scouts came through weeks ago but never saw any signs. Forests aren't their preferred territory. But this could be an advance. Or a counter to our efforts. Hmmm." Nollas draws out some figures and calculations on a table with his dagger.

"Four. I can allot you four of my troops to reclaim the woods. The exact evils marshaled in Farrain still remain a mystery and even I can't anticipate the men it will take to fight them back."

[greenstave]

Rand looks over the maps. It feels good to be back in a military setting.

"I believe with the group I arrived with, and four of your troops, we can take back these woods from the orcs, and provide a secure base to attack Farrain. I am ready to leave when the rest are, Sir."

[TheTick]

Niles smiles broadly. "I came here to serve Pelor. Sounds like this is a good way to start."

[Maerok]

"I'll arrange a group of volunteers. There are plenty willing to draw the blood of these beasts."

You're led from the command center and allowed to restock your personal supplies. Sidar is shown to the few mages in camp who have a set of scrolls he can study off from. The four volunteers are low-ranking paladins, all combat-worthy but not yet distinguished in service to Pelor's Order.

You can leave at any time (day or night) to investigate the orc camp.

[TheTick]

Niles makes it a point to replenish his supply of crossbow bolts (back to 50). "I'd suggest we get to the location on the map with plenty of daylight left - from what I understand, Orcs see better in the dark than most of us. Why give them that advantage?"

[mozae]

The mages seemed nice enough, and Sidar was appreciative of their sharing of knowledge. Their willingness to work together reminded him of home. Its a shame it takes such horrible conditions like this war to make humans work together like this.

As the group of mages around him continued to work Sidar climbed up in a chair and started thumbing through the scrolls he was given. He wished he had access to a mage's guild or a library. As he began adding the new scrolls to his spell book, he began eating one of the bland rations from his pack.

"I don't suppose you have any spells that could conjure up grand banquets do you?" he smugly to the nearest mage, who must have been in his thirties and appeared much too nice to have seen any real battles. He had hoped to lighten the mood; the room was still tense with war.

After a brief moment of shifting through the parchments in font of him the mage slid one in front of Sidar. "No, but I do have this. I am afraid its the best you going to get out here," the mage said and followed up with a smile.

"Berries? Berries will do in a pinch," Sidar said after scanning the parchment briefly.

When he was done Sidar gathered his things, thanked the mages and headed off to find his companions.

[greenstave]

Rand

I agree with him, we should go with lots of daylight left.

[Maerok]

You return to the woodland road that leads back into the woods. With a bit of planning you're able to reach the area of the hidden trail by early morning. Rand spots the saplings which have been broken along the side of the road. The trees have been bent at various angles and appears to have been done on purpose. Not far from this spot is a stream running from east to west.

[mozae]

"What is our course of action?", Sidar says out of frustration. We have no plan an we are marching head long into the unknown. There could be a battalion of Orcs and we haven't even thought passed "KILL DA BAD GUYS!"

[greenstave]

Rand

"Perhaps if we follow the stream, they will not expect us. Clearly they come and go by the forrest. Perhaps I can move ahead on my own and get a little better idea of what their protections are?

[TheTick]

Niles kneels next to Rand and examines the bent saplings. "I agree about following the course of the stream. Even if they have Clerics summoning food and water for them to eat, they'll need more if there's a full-blown camp." He glances at - what was the name of the hooded one? - and the Paladins. "I suggest Rand scouts ahead, I follow a short distance behind, and the rest of you bring up the rear. Keep the noisiest to the back."

Let us know if we need any Hide/Move Silently/Search checks or whatever.

[mozae]

"Well, that puts me with the noisy ones. What do you think? I do not believe you have uttered a word this entire journey." Sidar says as he looks at the hooded one.

[Virtue]

Ghi'chini had been silent the entire day. He did not like the paladins, nor the human settlement, and he feared that he would be considered as an enemy in this battle against the Orcs. Though he had his pendant, that signified him as a member of the Mercenery Guild, he was always wary in areas such as this.

Why must the humans talk so much.

The paladins had gone for length about the Orcs, and now it seemed there would be more coming with the group he was with. The cleric gritted his teeth, but remained silent. He was not this group's leader, and as long as there was gold to be had, he could put up with anything.

Left to his own thoughts, Ghi' simply pulled the hood up tighter and followed the others, back to the forest. His mind wandered back to the deserts of his home. Sand, heat, danger. Excitement rushing through his blood at every turn. This temperature in the woods here always felt so cold and clammy. The trees almost suffocating, and the ci-

The gnome seemed to talk to him, breaking Ghi' out of his mental reverie. Ghi' cocked his head, and paused for a moment. It was true. He hadn't spoken more than a few words the entire day.

"What would you have me say, gnome?" The goblinoid paused, and frowned. Even as he said it, he hadn't meant it to come out so hostile. "Apologies. It has been a long day, as you are aware. It is not my nature to be of much conversation. I do not mean ill offense, but I am a mercenery. I am not here for the comfort of any god, other than my own. And I am not here for the paladins or their camp. Coin is what draws me to this quest. If such paints me in a picture dark, than so be it. I make no false perceptions. Until I have been paid however and this mission is over, my abilities are at full disclosure, when they are required."

The Bhuka resumed his quiet stance and looked out over the forests ahead of them. "If it is all the same, I will remain in the back as well.."

[TheTick]

Niles opened his mouth as if to say something more, then seemed to think better of it. He nods mostly to himself, and waits until the rest of this merry band is ready to set out.

[Maerok]

Sneaking along the stream you are able to cover quite a distance in relative silence. The paladins slightly clank around but have learned to muffle the armor well enough. Ghi and Sidar trip over each other once when everyone stopped at the sound of a bird call from high above the treetops. Rand, up at the front, is virtually soundless as he stalks along the way.

But Niles is the one who first hears very quiet talking ahead and a sound like metal on stone - someone sharpening a tool. Strangely enough the sounds seems to be coming from an overgrown circle of trees at a bend in the stream. It's hard to place it exactly.

There are bits of rotten wood and embellished arches poking out from beneath the foliage. Sidar can identify them as part of an abandoned elven outpost. Something like a series of tree forts.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand thinks back to the maps he poured over at the outpost, and the histories he read on the region before departing for Farrain, to recollect anything he might know about this place.

knowledge local: [roll0]


He also looks around the ground ruins and up in the trees to see if he can spot any creatures, or any way up to the forts.

spot: [roll1]

[TheTick]

Niles feels the hair standing up on the back of his neck and stops. He cranes his neck to see if Rand stopped also, and holds up his hand behind him to signal those following to do the same.

If he can get Rand's attention without making noise, he will try and signal him to come back and talk over what everyone is seeing/hearing/feeling.

[mozae]

Sidar attempts to remain silent while looking for the source of the noises. He sees the Elven marks on the land and tries to recall their significance.

[Maerok]

Rand recalls that the area was once home to an elven nation. Once humans began to colonize the coastline and move inward the fair people departed east in search of more isolated lands. They occasionally fought with the orcs in similar territorial disputes.

Sidar begins to get a strange feeling like Niles's. A chill rushes across his skin. He's heard of the elven people who once lived here and how they disappeared almost overnight once the humans start building cities nearby. These folk were adept illusionists and abjurers.

As Rand scans for an entryway he can see that a number of footholds have been carved up the side of the tree to a hole in the floor.

Sidar can notice that some of the leaves up higher in the trees seem to blur as they move through the breeze, or in and out of the shadows.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand returns back to the group.

I can't see what is going on inside. There are footholds carved that would allow us to climb. I, however, am not well trained in close quarter combat. My best use would be picking off the ones that go near the door, or get thrown out.....that said, assaulting this fort could be dangerous, given our lack of knowledge.

[TheTick]

Niles smiles grimly. "I AM trained in close-quarters combat. I could lead the Paladins in an assault on the tree fort. Although - " he glances quickly at the fort " - I felt a chill run down my spine as we approached. Did anyone else?"

[Maerok]

A feeling like pins and needles wash over you all for a moment. The call of a bird stops midway through and soon resumes itself a few seconds later.

[Virtue]

"..." Ghi'chini simply watched the others before glancing up out into the forest ahead.

"I could send the forest into flames, if that's what you had in mind for dealing with the Orcs.." the goblin said grimly and without humor. He tilted his head and continues without any emotion. "Among other things, none of them useful, if you too wish to survive."

[TheTick]

When the strange feeling passes, Niles says "Tell me I'm not the only one to notice that."

After the hooded one speaks, Niles replies "A bit of fire did cross my mind...but I always wanted an enchanted tree fort of my own as a kid. If things go poorly for us, keep that fire idea in reserve."

[mozae]

“Are these elves that did not flee? Could that fort’s condition be an elaborate illusion?” Sidar thought.

“Let’s not be too hasty. I too felt what you described Niles. But these might not be enemies. Judging by the design of the structure it is of Elven design. And as I recall, this area once contained a band of elves adept in the ways of magic, Illusion magic, to be more accurate. Unless my eyes are deceiving me I am detecting movement from the tree, look for odd movements of light. You with better eyes might be able to see it better than me. I think it’s possible that these elves have never left.”

Assuming they were not alone, Sidar said his next words hoping elves in his immediate area would hear them. “Maybe common enemies could make us friends. Elves would make powerful allies in times like these. We both would like to see the Orcs removed. And maybe those of Pelor would be grateful enough to let these elves live in peace.”

“Or maybe I am wrong and we have a fight on our hands. They could be Elves of evil origin that would rather see us die, but then they would have to deal with this infestation alone.”

“Or they are Orcs and I should stop talking.”

[TheTick]

"I could go on up and say Hi. Just be ready to catch me if they throw me out."

If no one objects, I'll climb up, far enough to get inside the illusion, if indeed that's what this is.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand does his best to pronounce Ghi's name.

You are right, Ghi'chini, these may be friendly elves. They may be evil elves. Could also be as the orc said, and this is their camp. We won't know until someone climbs. Niles, since you offered, I will keep watch on you from below.

Rand trains his bow on the door as Niles climbs. If he so much as thinks an orcish face is appearing, he will fire directly at it's eye!

[mozae]

"Orcs it is." Sidar loads his crossbow with a bolt.

[Virtue]

Ghi' had not prepared any spells that would have helped in the situation, so he remained silent. As a mercenary, most of his typical spells were dealt with combat, not stealth, and he was not completey comfortable enough in the woods to attempt to sneak into the camp ahead.

While he was tempted to send the entire area into desertification, he knew others frowned upon that, so the goblin held his tongue for a moment, before responding to the group before him.

"Perhaps it would wise to send one of the paladins to find out. Afterall, they are trained in the arts of diplomacy and can handle themselves against danger."

...and are skilled in the ways of taking arrows while I survive.

[Maerok]

Niles climbs up the tree carefully and without a peep.

As he sticks his head inside up through the broken hole there appears to be far more space than what's outside. Once inside he sees that the room he's now in is a spacious entry hall - all quite elven in design. A few braziers have been lit around the hall and they provide adequate light to see.

[TheTick]

If I see no enemies...

Niles takes a look around, surprised to see how spacious the fort is on the inside. Mages, he thinks as he chuckles to himself. He slips down the tree quickly and quietly and goes back to where the group is waiting. "It's definitely an elven fort. I saw no sign of Orcs in the entry room, though they could be in another - it's much larger on the inside than it is on the outside."

[Virtue]

Ghi'chini remained quiet, but contemplative. Elves and arcs were not known to be the best of friends. If this indeed were an elven fort however, he would not be quite welcome either. The humans had said there were Orc's nearby though.

Perhaps the Orc's had killed the Elve's and taken their fort. That might seem reasonable. If there were Orc's here, perhaps they would accept a goblin as one of their own. Hmm...

Ghi' slowly removed his hood, and blinked in the sun. He waited for the others to continue further, still wondering why they can't just let the paladins go first.

[Maerok]

Niles doesn't see any enemies from where he is in the fort. Toward his end of the hall there is a lever near a hatch in the floor where a folding set of stairs rests. On the opposite side is a stairwell leading up and a few doors along the walls.

By staring at the aberration in the forest long enough Ghi is able to disbelieve the ward on the elven fort. The leaves give way to reveal a much larger structure hidden beneath them. It now looks to be like an entire five-story elven manor build around three main trees. Shuttered windows overlook the area but a few of them are open. It appears that the upper floors are unlit.

One of the paladins suddenly stares in awe at the hidden structure as well.

(Where do you all go from here?)

[TheTick]

Niles plucks idly at the bottom of his armor, straightening it. "Unless one of you has a better plan, I'm going to take the Paladins up with me and check as well as I can for traps. Once done, everyone else can come up, and we can begin to explore this fortress properly." He does a double take when the hooded one finally reveals himself, but simply nods to him once.

[mozae]

"Niles, how clean was it up there? An Elven fort that has been occupied by Orcs should show some sign. Orcs don't strike me as a group that would be tidying up after themselves."

"Rand do you think this is the spot that the dying Orc mentioned? I am afraid, if it is not, we could be putting ourselves too far off the mission we were hired for."

Sidar opened his mouth to add a warning about offending Elves but then though better of it.

[greenstave]

Rand

"Based on what the orc said, this seems to be the spot, though I agree with Sidar, if orcs were operating here, we would see a sign.

Rand looks around once to confirm, and then decides to join Niles in the fortress.

[Virtue]

"Hmm. It seems a bit extravagant for a deserted abandoned fort." Ghi'chini brushes his fingers through the air, thinking to himself. "There is magic here, illusion. I do not trust it, nor would I think orcs would be of the capability required to summon of arcane magic upon an entire fort. There is something here. It would be wise to take care." The Bhuka goes quiet again, and is ready to follow last into the fort.

[Maerok]

(Niles hasn't seen any sign of orcs so far.)

The group of paladins follows you all up into the elven fortress in the tree. As each of you climb higher the uneasy aura becomes stronger, almost a faint droning hum in your ears.

There are four doors to each side of the entry hall and a visible stairwell to one end. Near you is a level next to a hatch.

http://i.imgur.com/CdBOK.png

[TheTick]

Niles shakes his head, as if that might clear the ill feeling from it, but it doesn't help. "I agree this seems beyond what the Orcs could do..." he trailed off. But what? "But we need to determine who or what, if anyone IS here. If it's Orcs, we need to root them out. Pelor's crusading Paladins and Clerics can't have an exposed flank. If there are others here, perhaps they can be turned to our cause? Elves with powerful illusions would be a welcome addition, and they have no reason to love the Orc invaders. But listen to me, talking too much again. Let me check these rooms for traps and go from there."

Niles will check each of the four doors for traps, and then suggest clearing each room one at a time. Search:
[roll0]

Re-posted to fix the colors. Didn't check the roll the first time.

[Virtue]

"..I could attempt passing through the door, without opening it. It would take a hefty use of my magical abilities for the day however. There seems to be a lever near there, and stairs in the opposite direction." We have various paths it appears."

Ghi' was still not comfortable talking to strangers, but it seemed inevitable now that he would have to associate with the other mercenaries. And on the off chance there truly were elves here, the goblin pulled his hood back over his head again, cloaking his face in darkness.

[TheTick]

Niles raises an eyebrow. "A power like that need not be wasted on these doors - though that may come in handy later. As for the lever...if I can figure out what it does, I'd be okay pulling it. Don't want to set off an alarm, or a trap, or what not."

What check for figuring that out? Disable Device?

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand looks around for any obvious trap signs, he then heads towards a door.

When in doubt, start at the start.

He walks over to Door 1 and listens closely for any noise on the other side. Assuming he sees to traps and hears no noises, he backs up 10 feet and trains his bow on the door.

I'll cover you." he says to no one in particular, waiting for a volunteer.


Search for traps: [roll0]
Listen on Door 1: [roll1]

[mozae]

Sidar, lets the others work. Their skills are greater than his anyway. "Well, I guess I should give some attention to the other side of the problem." He proceeds to turn on his feet in a clumsy attempt at an about face. "I new I never had any business soldiering," he said to himself. He starts scanning the area in the opposite direction as everyone else, looking for any sign of potential danger that might catch his companions off guard while they search.

[TheTick]

Niles nods at Rand, and steps to the door indicated. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained." He listens at the door to see if there is anything detectable behind it, and will continue to search for traps. If he hears and finds nothing, he'll stand to the side of the door and open it.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Maerok]

Niles doesn't see any traps in the lever or the door. Looks legitimate enough. Upon inspect of the lever it seems to control the hatch in the floor.

Behind door 1 is a private library. The room, like the fortress itself, continues to expand upon space that isn't there. At one time there were hundreds of books lined up on shelves but now they lie in tatters. Profane carvings in the orcish script sully the wooden shelves. A solitary desk is positioned across the room from the door.

[TheTick]

Niles shakes his head at the destruction. "I wonder if they were looking for something, or if the fell beasts think this is 'fun'." He sneers and walks over to the desk, hoping some bit of knowledge here is intact.

Searching for traps on the desk, Spot for...anything else I can see, and Open Lock if it's locked (and I don't get blown up)
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[mozae]

"Wow, what a waste. I am sure it appeases some deep seeded feeling of inadequacy. Elves are smarter and what better symbolizes that than books." Sidar moves toward any texts that look salvageable. He does so halfhearted knowing full well that he will most likely find little of use.



Spot: [roll0]
Search: [roll1]

[Maerok]

There's a drawer built into the desk but it is already unlocked.

A single book remains inside and its pages have all been ripped out. The title is in Elven with a depiction of an elaborate diamond-shaped crystal. At the bottom are a few words in Dwarven:

"With original notes from its Dwarven discoverers"


Going further into the room it is apparent that the markings on the walls are radiating some ghostly aura from the fortress itself.

[Virtue]

Ghi' walks into the open room, and remains quiet, simply glancing out into the apparent room and studying it quietly. With a flick of his gloved hand, he spreads out his divine sight, to discern what he can from the room, just in case there is anything to discover.

Ghi'chini casts Detect Magic.

[Maerok]

Ghi focuses in on the magic at work. It doesn't take long. A strong aura of both abjuration and conjuration suddenly dances around in his vision. It's coming from the walls - it is the walls. The objects in the room don't appear to be radiating as much power but have remained within the area long enough to show echoes.

[greenstave]

Rand enters the room and looks around. He looks at the book trying to discern what the cover might be referring to.


knowledge local for any stories or legends of an artifact matching the book covers description: [roll0]


After they have finished searching the room:

Well, there does not appear to be much more we can do here. On to the next.

He exits the room, heads towards door 2, and takes up his position 10 ft. from the door, bow in hand, arrow notched and aimed.

[TheTick]

Niles will wait for the casters to finish their investigations, and then join Rand in cracking open the next room as well.

Aiding Rand?
[roll0]
And prepping the next door:
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

[Virtue]

Ghi' continued to study through the lens of his Detect Magic. He could detect the auras of several varying magics dancing around the entire fort.

Perhaps the entire fort is a conjuration creation? Hmm.

The goblin continues to study, but seems to not be able to discern too much more from the room. Following the others, he continues to detect magic throughout the fort, his gaze streaming over everything in the room.

"This fort is significantly protected it seems through forms of abjuration. There is also strong conjuration magic throughout the rooms, as if this entire fort may be nothing more than a magical creation."

Ghi'chini thought carefully before continuing. "That is merely a theory however. If we continue through the other doors, I may be able to discern further information."

Detect Magic will last 5 minutes, and will get stronger with each consecutive round used to study.

[mozae]

Sidar finishes his halfhearted investigation and joins those who have already left the room.

[Maerok]

Rand has heard very distant rumors about strange lights found in the northern mountains. They often appear from within the Clearwyn Mine but disappear before anyone has a chance to find the source. It has also been thought that a Dwarven civilization might be hidden within the mountain where the mine was built.

The next door is as safe as the one before it. Strangely enough the first one slams shut at the same time.

Door Two is opened and behind it is a bunkhouse. Rows of beds line the walls and personal items are laid out neatly on each or carefully placed in open chests. Strangely enough, you're all no longer alone - there are two people sitting on separate beds in the room. They're elves.

[TheTick]

Niles blinked for a moment - he didn't actually expect there to be anything but Orcs here after that first room - then bowed to the elves. "Greetings! Please accept my apologies for our barging in like this. Our band is tracking some number of Orcs who were waylaying travellers on the road, and their path led us here. Judging from the room next door, they've been here. Are they still here?"

Let me know if I need to roll anything here.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand keeps his bow trained on one of the elves, but shifts his eyes around the room to search for any weapons or threats they might make against Niles. He also looks over the elves closely to see if they might show any outward signs of being in battle.


Rolling spot and search cause I don't know which to use here.
Spot: [roll0]
Search: [roll1]

[mozae]

"Rand, might I suggest pointing that bow at the floor?"

[Maerok]

Ghi's detect magic is still in effect. It's still registering a strong conjuration and abjuration aura throughout the building.

The elves look at each other. Of the two, the more wizened-looking one speaks in accented Common. The elf rises slowly, hand at the spell component pouch slung at his waist.

"Orcs? At the moment I'm more curious about what a human and some smallfolk are going in the heart of the Elven empire! Few among my people know this place exists, much less a few dirty orcs. But you all have found it nonetheless. How curious."

[TheTick]

"Elven empire..." Niles glances back at his companions - as much to make sure he was hearing this right as anything. "Sir, this...place currently sits in land held by a human kingdom, and contested by Orcs. We tracked some in this direction, and judging by the ramshackle condition of the room over there - " gesturing to room 1 " - we assumed they'd taken residence here."

How close am I to the talker? I would've had my rapier and dagger combo out to enter the door...I would shift slightly to make sure I'm not blocking the door so Rand and the casters can get LOS.

[Maerok]

(It's about a 15'x15' room. Niles would be about ten feet from the older elf. Everything's stacked up pretty well around the sides.)

The elf looks a bit worried. "Ramshackle room? Perhaps you mean the laboratory, it does get messy from time to time."

He rises from his seat on the edge of the bed, approaching a few steps with a limp. "Dear human, you must not be well. And to have traveled so far in your condition with these companions who fail to realize the danger you pose to yourself! I am Taidsul and Gilmya here may be able to treat you as she is skilled in the healing arts."

He points to the younger female elf who is still quite surprised by your arrival. She puts down the bandages and pieces from a broken splint she had been working on to give a slight Elven curtsy. "We do not get visitors often though and I'd be glad to help those in need. But if our superiors find you they will want to question your trespass! Oh but do consider yourselves welcome for now. I haven't seen folk of your races in ages."

[TheTick]

Niles relaxes just a bit. "It was the library, actually - perhaps we should go there together, so you can see what I mean." He steps aside to allow Taidsul to pass, and will offer an arm if he seems unsure of his steps. To Gilmya, Niles bows and says "Young miss, I assure you that the only infirmities in my mind are the ones standard to adventurers - a love of danger, a healthy fear of monsters, and a need to stay on the move."

[Maerok]

The elven maiden blushes.

Taildsul walks out of the room, still limping slightly but denying any help. "Just a small scrape in the lab. Confounded tripping hazards all about."

As he exits the room he is gone, right in front of Niles's eyes. Gilmya doesn't bat an eye.

[mozae]

I think this illusion is going farther than we originally thought," Sidar said as Taildsul vanished. "Gilmya, can you tell us about the danger before you depart?"

Normally Sidar would have let the others speak, but time was short and the second Elf, whether illusion or real, could leave at any moment. Then they would be left without any opportunity to solve this riddle.

[TheTick]

What the..."Gilmya, where did he just go? Did he just disappear to your eyes as well?" Niles is clearly confounded by this latest development. Orcs, he knew how to handle. Disappearing elven wizards were something else entirely.

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand's bow follows the elf as he heads to the door. When he disapeared, Rand spun around the hall trying to find him. Not seeing anything, he brings his bow back and trains it once more on the elven woman.

[Maerok]

Gilmya begins to frown. "Oh dear. Something must be wrong." She puts down the medical supplies and strains to look out the door for her mentor.

"I'm just an apprentice but I am studying the crystal too. We got it from the dwarves, to explore its properties. This fortress contains several erratic demiplanes linked to the crystal. If it shattered then it could have untold consequences for anything inside."

She runs to the window to look outside. "Maybe you've awoken me from the effects - the orcs! I remember now. They killed us. It happened, but it didn't!" Gilmya begins to shake terribly.

[TheTick]

Niles puts away his dagger and places a hand on Gilmya's shoulder - both to steady her, and to make sure she's not a ghost. "Gilmya, we need you to steady on and help us. You said the Orcs killed you? And yet you're here?" He pauses for a moment. "There was a book, destroyed, in the next room that had a crystal on the cover. Is that what you speak of? And what of the Orcs afterwards?" Niles looks back at the hooded Cleric and the Gnome, hoping their knowledge of how these 'demiplanes' work might help shed some light on things.

[Maerok]

"The orcs left. Maybe ravaging elsewhere in the facility. And the book? Ramu has been working on recording our findings with some Dwarven translations. The last thing I remember was he left to write it in the study down the hall."

[Maerok]

"The orcs left. Maybe ravaging elsewhere in the facility. And the book? Ramu has been working on recording our findings with some Dwarven translations. The last thing I remember was he left to write it in the study down the hall."

[TheTick]

Niles looks out the door and at the rest of the fort. "We need to find the Orcs and secure the crystal. Are there any traps or other security measures in place on the other floors? What's in the rooms across the hall?"

[greenstave]

Rand

I agree. Perhaps we can cover more ground if our fellow Palladins split up and checked the other two rooms.

[mozae]

"Rand, that seems sound to me. I wish we had more to go on though, I do not know what to believe."

[TheTick]

"I concur. The Paladins can clear the other rooms while we try and figure out what's going on."

[Maerok]

Gilmya shook her head over the questions. "No traps. This was in the heart of the Elven Empire. The facility was veiled through manipulating the crystal and we thought that would be enough. Across the hall is the lab and a room we devote to pursuing the arts in our free time. On the other floors, I wasn't allowed to be there."

The paladins get into formation and begin to check the next room, Door 3. As the lead paladin musters his courage and throws the door open, the door to the quarters with Gilmya and Niles slams shut in response. The floor rumbles angrily - the walls shake and a high-pitched whine roars out through the doors themselves. Suddenly, the strange occurrence passes and Niles is ejected out from the bunkhouse room out into the main hall.

Meanwhile, the paladins stare in awe at the contents of the next room - it's a flawless mural capturing the story of Corellon Larethian taking the eye of Gruumsh in combat. The details are breath-taking and even though the Order soldiers would normally find such effort unworthy before the might of Pelor even they falter in critiquing it.

This room contains all manner of elven instruments and art supplies. Delicately hammered gold and silver leaf are only a few of the treasures within.

[TheTick]

Niles skids to a halt in the hallway on the seat of his pants, looking supremely startled. "What the hell was that??" He looks around to make sure everyone else is all right (and see if Gilmya is still visible or can hear him if the door closed) before getting up and walking over to where the Paladins are and lets out a low whistle. "The Elves that lived here had some true artistic talent. I'm impressed."

Niles will want to be sure Gilmya is OK, then check this third room and the next only for useful items such as weapons/armor/magic items useful to adventurers. He has no need for art to take.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Maerok]

(I'm going to be caught up in some holiday events for the weekend. I'll give everyone a chance to regroup and post up.)

[greenstave]

Rand

Rand lets his bow down as the door is slammed shut. He then heads over to the room the Paladins have opened, and looks inside.