[3.5, E6] Colony of Westmark: Second Wave IC

[esorscher]

Attracted to the newly established colony of Landfall-at-Westmark, you have enlisted in the Royal Army and set sail along with dozens of your comrades on a voyage to the Bahamic Continent. It has been a long voyage, but today the continent has been sighted, and as you look out across the deep blue of the ocean and the endless expanse of sky above reflected, you imagine all the opportunity and adventure that awaits you there.

But, before you reach your destination, the water becomes unexpectedly rough, and then the vessel stops suddenly. Your captain and commanding officer in the Royal Army, Captain Darius Alzar, calls you to arms, and you draw your preferred weapon and take up a position of your choosing as scaly blue-green amphibious humanoids (http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/MM35_gallery/MM35_PG217.jpg) begin swarming over the sides of the ship. "Defend the ship!" Alzar orders.



Battlefield Description: You are in the place of your choosing atop a ship's deck. The deck is roughly rectangular in shape measuring 100' from aft to stern and 30' from port to starboard. Amphibious Humanoids are roughly evenly spaced 10' apart on either side of the ship, totalling 20 Amphibious Humanoids.

In addition to the four party members are NPC allies: 8 Royal Crown soldiers and Captain Darius Alzar.

[Hamste]

Pyrom is going to start as close to as many people as possible while still being able to swing at the attackers. Clearing his voice he starts talking to help keep inspiration up hoping the Captain wouldn't be mad. Remember friends, flanking is vital for hitting the vitals. Aim for the spleen when you attack, no one ever expects the spleen. Pyrom says as he starts swinging his sword hoping his strength would carry him in this fight. He hoped he wouldn't too bad in front of the other soldiers.


If I'm able to I would like Pyrom to activate master of tactics (For 3 more damage for allies who are flanking) as a swift action during set-up. If not he starts it on his turn as a swift. With my range (40 ft radius) I should get most of the ship except the front 10 feet and back 10 feet.

Initiative [roll0]
Full round attack for
[roll1] to hit (another 2 if he can five foot step for flanking or is flanking)
for
[roll2] damage (another 3 if he is flanking)

All the enemies with in a 20 foot radius not immune to fear have to make a DC 13 will save or be shaken for a minute

[J-H]

Crockett
With his handaxe in a loop at his belt, Crockett has his shortbow ready, and his feet are light on the deck. "Fish-men. Are these one of the new creatures found at Landfall?"

[J-H]

Crockett
Moving to shift his position - and angle of fire - quickly, Crockett finds a good, stable spot and fires an arrow.


Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1] including skirmish

[smasher0404]

Chrom

Chrom shouts with utmost glee " Not even off the boat and we get to see some action? I'm glad I came. Last one to get a kill buys the first round when we dock!" as he charges against the first amphibious humanoid he sees.


Swift Action: Change Stance to Punishing Stance (+1d6 damage but -2 AC)
Move Action: Move into Melee range of one of the humanoids
Standard: Stone Bones
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] + [roll2]
I gain Dr 5/Adamantine for 1 Round

[Mathis]

Clearly flustered at the sudden attack, Stepan clumsily drew his sword from it's scabbard and picked up his shield."Wha- The spleen? First kill?!" What sort of murderers and thieves had he found himself enrolled with. Dishonorable scum they may be, but effective fighters they certainly were.

He had been standing up at the helm, getting a good look at the beautiful and strange, new continent. Now he charged at the closest monster and found himself shoulder to shoulder with their officer, Captain Alzar. He swung his sword like he had been taught, a clean vertical hack at the creatures' torso.
Regular move to the closest available monster and try to position myself next to the Captain.

Initiative: [roll0]
Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Longsword, slashing.


Confirm critical attack:(1d20+4)[20]
Extra Damage: (1d8+3)[8]

Total damage: 18

[esorscher]

http://i.imgur.com/mm945tD.png

The amphibious humanoids are pouring up the sides with the intention of slaughter – they are attacking the people with weapons first. The common masses are safe below ship, provided you can survive this onslaught.

Pyrom, from his position toward the center of the ship within a cluster of six or so soldiers, provides encouragement that falls initially on deaf ears, but upon seeing his blade erupt through the chest of the amphibious humanoid Pyrom is flanking, the soldiers around him take his words more seriously—and several of the amphibious humanoids around him and the group of soldiers, whether they understand his language or not, seem affected.

While the other soldiers are assuming defensive positions in the face of greater numbers, Chrom is not so inclined, charging into the midst of four amphibious humanoids boarding at the front of the ship. His great blade swings true, as he cleaves an amphibious humanoid in twain, drawing the attention of the three surrounding.

Stepan has done well to position himself alongside your CO, Captain Darius Alzar, as his swift and unerring strike unzips the amphibious humanoid from the top of its head to its navel. The two halves of the body peel apart, the sinew and muscle coming unglued by the strength of Stepan's attack. This causes Darius to change his plans. Darius steps back and using his guisarme, trips one of approaching AH, knocking it prone next to Stepan. As the AH tries to stand, Stepan has an opportunity to strike. (AoO)

The fight is underway, and Crockett is the only combatant preferring to use a ranged weapon. His arrow finds its mark, and the wounded AH staggers back but continues to press its assault against the Royal Crown soldier it is facing.

The Crown Soldiers do their best to repel the amphibious humanoids, and in some cases are successful in striking their opponents, but the thick skin of the humanoids and their natural fortitude keep them on their feet. In response to being struck, they fly into foaming rage, in one case the amphibious humanoid extends a long and prehensile tongue to taste its own blood before attacking.

The amphibious humanoids surround you. Chrom, who has thrown himself into the fray, is flanked and struck by one of the two humanoids flanking him, but while the razor-sharp talons do scrape across his exposed flesh, Chrom finds himself emboldened by his martial mastery and feels no pain. Others among your unit are similarly struck, but are all still standing as well. The amphibious humanoid tripped by your captain attempts to stand, and should it be successful, will strike at Stepan. (4 damage if not slain/ disabled by Stepan's AoO).

Three of the invaders lie dead on the ship's deck, black bile leaking from their corpses in various states of dismemberment.

[Hamste]

Pyrom moves forward to prepare a flanking position for the soldiers and presumably getting an attack for his trouble. See, that wasn't too hard now you try this time. I will get into position and stab them. Then you get into position and stab them while they are distracted. Pyrom says as moves to take a slash at the creature.

Pyrom moves to J1 using the path that involves him walking past whichever creature that seems to be most afraid of him [roll0] sense motive provoking an attack

Then he takes a swing at the creature in I1

[roll1] to hit
for
[roll2] damage

[J-H]

Crockett
Crockett steps to the side, pivots, and takes a clear shot at one of the creatures.


Nice map.
Move to E3, target D5
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

[Mathis]

Stepan had ended the life of the first creature he had met on this continent. Was this how his colonial adventure was to begin? He stood for a moment in awe as he watched the very first life he had taken sink into the deck of the ship as a bloody, lifeless mess. Then everything around him exploded into deadly action. He lunged his sword forward and down to skewer the fallen creature that was now attempting to stand, but hit only wooden deck. He swung his sword again before pulling back to a more advantageous position at hjis Captain's side. He looked young and afraid, but he had bloodied his sword and there was no shame in fear when facing such exotic horrors. At least that's what he told himself as he resisted the urge to piss himself with fright.

AoO, likely a miss: AoO, target O1: (1d20+4)[7], Damage: (1d8+3)[8]


Attack, target O1: [roll0] Damage, [roll1]
5 foot step to N2.

[smasher0404]

Chrom laughs at the humanoids failed attacks against them "You know I thought this would be more of a challenge" before launching a spinning strike against his foes


Standard: Initiate Steel Wind maneuver against B1 and B3
Attack 1 :
Damage [roll] 3d6+4

Attack 2:
Damage [roll] 3d6+4

Swift Action: Switch to Martial Spirit Stance

[smasher0404]

Damage redo

[roll0]

[esorscher]

http://i.imgur.com/RJ72bNt.png

Pyrom closes in on the amphibious humanoid he intends, and with a deft maneuver opens the humanoids chest, sending a spray of salty black fluid into the air. This frees up the Royal Crown soldier who had been in combat with the humanoid to flank a second one, and together the two flanking soldiers manage to slay the second humanoid, skewering it from the front and back and spilling its intestines across the desk.

Both Stepan's attempts to strike the tripped amphibious humanoid fail as the creature stands and strikes successfully against the nephew of Sir Martin. Stepan pivots to the left, drawing one of the invaders into his strike zone, opening an opportunity for Captain Alzar's guisarme. Alzar sweeps low at the humanoid's scaly legs, knocking the creature off its webbed feet. However, the previously tripped humanoid, still standing, strikes true against Stepan (3 damage).

Chrom's bravado is well-justified as he swings wildly, taking down another of the amphibious humanoids facing him. Crockett's arrow weakens, but does not kill, another of the amphibious humanoids.

The two attackers with arrows in their shoulders each attack the soldiers they are engaged with, the one attacking from the starboard side failing, but the one attacking from the port side successfully thrusting his clawed fist into the exposed armpit of the Royal Crown soldier and ripping the man's arm off. His screaming is quickly ended by the second amphibious humanoid he had been tangling with, who clamps down with sharp teeth on the man's throat and emerges with red blood on his lips and a mouthful of flesh, which he spits out with a roar. The starboard side attacker ducks under the blade of the Royal Crown soldier facing him.

Of the three amphibous humanoids working against the soldier in the aft-port corner of the deck, one misses wildly, but the other strikes true. The third moves to charge Darius, but is reflexively tripped by his guisarme. Alzar attempts to trip the third amphibious humanoid near him, but the creature deftly avoids the sweeping blade.

The two soldiers remaining on the port side of the ship both stab one of their assailants as the other moves to flank, and with their attention on one of their enemies, are both struck by the flanking amphibious humanoids. The blows do not seem fatal, though you can tell quickly that your comrades are faltering.

Six of the attackers lie dead compared to two of your allies.

[Hamste]

With a second kill under his belt, Pyrom turns around and charges to flank the creature who was in turn flanking the person he was flanking with. He continues to extol helpful tactics particularly focusing on how to gang up on opponents.


Pyrom charges to J3 to attack K4 taking advantage of the flank. I'm not sure if any more creatures who weren't in the 20 foot radius the first turn but if there is they have to make a dc 13 will save to avoid shaken (but the ones who made their save before don't) as I'm charging.

[roll0] (plus 2 for flanking abd plus 2 for charge)


[roll1] additional +3 for flanking.

[Mathis]

Stepan was bloodied now, several cuts and gashes had opened up from the creatures attacks. With a roar he launched a counter-attack against the tripped opponent infront of him.
Attack, target O2. He is prone so should recieve -4 to his AC for this attack.[roll0] Damage, [roll1]

[J-H]

Crockett
As the creatures press in from the port side, Crockett tosses his bow over his shoulder and draws his handaxe charges one that's flanking a soldier.


Charge to G3, targeting the H3/4 sea humanoid.
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

[smasher0404]

Chrom silently sidesteps and stabs at the remaining humanoid attacking him

5-foot step to C2
Standard: Initiate Crusader's Strike against B3
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Heals E2 [roll2] hp on hit
Heals G2 2 hp on hit (Martial Spirit)

[esorscher]

http://i.imgur.com/JsLW4fU.png

Pyrom charges inspiringly and his blade cuts deeply into the flanked amphibious humanoid. The creature recoils, staggering backward, but manages to stay on its feet.

Stepan slices deeply into the flesh of the amphibious humanoid, but the creature survives the assault and attempts to stand, giving Stepan an opportunity to finish the job. (AoO) If successful, it will swipe at Stepan, but its claws will bounce harmlessly off his shield.

Crockett brings his handaxe across the amphibious humanoid's face, creating a bloody mess where his jaw once rested.

Chrom moves closer to the rest of the soldiers, bringing his greatsword down in a slashing motion that takes advantage of his shifting momentum and creates yet another bleeding corpse. Healing light emanates from his sword, washing over the two soldiers near to him and knitting their wounds closed.

One of these (E2) manages to slay his amphibious counterpart, but the other misses wide against his opponent.

Two of the amphibious humanoids charge Chrom from the port side of the ship, but both fail to connect.

On the port side, two more Crown soldiers fall to the invaders, succumbing to their wounds.

The other tripped humanoid attempts to stand, but doing so leaves it vulnerable to Captain Alzar's guisarme, and it finds itself rising to meet a rushing downward cleave that connects and bifurcates its skull. From behind it on the port side, however, two more amphibious humanoids charge at Alzar. One is tripped as it enters the range of his guisarme, but the other avoids the move with a leaping swipe that strikes Alzar across the face, leaving three bloody tracks from where the talons separated his flesh. Another moves to attack Alzar, but is met by a Crown Soldier whose enemy had been slain by one of you. If it had been that man's dream to die saving his captain's life, then at least his death brought his dreams to fruition—though it seems unlikely a single strike would fell your resilient captain.

There are ten amphibious humanoids remaining, and seven of your initial thirteen.

[J-H]

Crockett

The port foredeck is almost clear, save for all the blood and bodies. Crockett leaps across it, trying to make it a clean sweep.


Charge to F5, hitting F6
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Skirmish is serving me really well right now.

[Hamste]

You two, flank that one by the railing. He can take care of those 2 easily enough. Pyrom says pointing at two of the remaining soldiers.

You be ready to flank once this one is dealt with.
Pyrom says pointing to the soldier next to a couple of the enemies. He takes a swing at the enemy next to him ready to move if he kills them.


The first 2 soldiers Pyrom points at are the ones in row 2 if it isn't clear and he wants them to flank the enemy in G1.

He attacks K4 again
[roll0]
for
[roll1] damage
If that kills it he moves to M5 avoid AoO.

[smasher0404]

Chrom nods at the soldiers reaffirming Pyrom's statement before taking swinging his sword

Swift: Recover Maneuvers
Standard: Attack D3
Attack Roll: 1d20
Damage [roll0]

Heals G2 2 hp if it hits

[smasher0404]

Rerolled attack roll
[roll0]

[Mathis]

"Keep knocking them down Captain! We'll cast you back into the sea you godless things! GLORY TO ASAR!" Stepan was allowing himself to get carried away with the rush of battle now, the wounds were stacking up and soon he would have to retreat below deck but for now he was a flurry of steel and will.
The creature that attempted to stand was met by another hack from Stepan's longsword. Before that creature had hit the deck he spun around his captains back and attacked another one of the downed creatures. Back to back they fought still, steel flying all over the place. But they were pushing the monsters back, and his allies on the other end of the ship was doing well also!

AoO. Target, O2, (1d20+4)[21] Damage. (1d8+3)[9]
5 foot step into M3, if this is difficult terrain and I can't move into that square, I will simply stand in place and attack target O1.

Attack, target N4. Prone target. [roll0]. Damage, [roll1]

[esorscher]

http://i.imgur.com/E03NrW7.png

Crockett charges at a humanoid, who responds in kind, exchanging one blow for another (5 damage).

At Pyrom's urging, the two Royal Crown soldiers step into place, flanking their opponent. Pyrom slays his own enemy and moves into position to set up another flank with another Royal Crown soldier.

For the first time Chrom fails to connect, his blade bouncing harmlessly off the thick scales on the amphibious humanoids shoulders and chest.

Martin finds working in close proximity to his commanding officer beneficial once again, taking advantage of the opportunity presented and ending the life of another amphibious humanoid, then moving swiftly to add another kill to his total, stepping on the midsection of a fallen comrade as he does so, which, while doing nothing to damage the already dead man's chances of life, is obviously disregarding his bodily integrity. Perhaps this might impact his reputation, were it not for the actions effectiveness as he slays yet another of the attacking amphibians. The amphibious humanoid that had been threatening him swipes pathetically at him as he darts away.

Then the amphibious humanoids strike back, the two facing off against Chrom both delivering solid slashes with their natural weapons (8 damage). Along the starboard bow the flanked amphibious humanoid lashes out violently at one of the Crown Soldiers before they take turns skewering it with their longswords. One of them hits Captain Alzar's armor but does not penetrate the chainmail, and another tries to get inside the reach of his guisarme and is tripped. "Press on! Take the fight to them!" he calls out.

There are only five of the amphibious humanoids remaining to your seven, and upon realizing that their attack has failed and that the numbers are no longer on their side, they attempt to flee. Chrom slays one of the retreating assailants as it turns to run, but the other engaged with him escapes, leaping over the edge of the ship. The amphibious humanoid engaged in combat with Crockett slips overboard too swiftly for Crockett to respond, but the ones surrounding Darius are tripped and slaughtered before they can escape.

Once the battle has subsided, you are able to take stock. On the other ships, similar battles have and are taking place, and Alzar orders your ship close on the next nearest to provide assistance. By the time you arrive, however, the amphibious humanoids have already broken off their attack and fled.

The fleet arrives and docks, and you take your first steps onto the Bahamic Continent. Captain Alzar goes to meet with the other officers of the Royal Army, and asks that you not leave to explore the continent until he returns. He suggests you find someone to treat the wounds you can not treat yourselves, but can not offer you any more advice, as he is as new to this place as you are.

A lot has happened since you awoke this morning, and you may find it useful to the processing process to discuss it with one another. The humanoids who attacked you were unlike any you had ever seen, and unlike any that were described in accounts of the colony. As foreign and confusing as their appearances were, so too were their motives, and their place of origin.

Four posts in a day is a lot for me. A lot more work than just coming up with what to post. I'll have another post for you tomorrow for certain, in the meantime, roleplay!

[J-H]

Crockett
Crockett walks off the docks, and looks for someone with a smile on their face. "Can you point me to a temple or priest? There was a battle offshore, and I think I'll get a better bunk in a tavern if I'm not bleeding."

[Hamste]

How is everyone? That was quite the brutal fight. Pyrom says checking each of the downed soldiers to see if any were still ok. He seemed to have been quite lucky this time to avoid getting hurt. He really hoped that his tactical advice helped out.

I will come with you. It could be quite bad if you lose too much blood and pass out with no one else is around. Pyrom says following Crockett.

[smasher0404]

Chrom approaches Stepan with a huge smile on his blood-soaked face.

"That was some nice swordwork, kid. Who taught you? Chrom asks as he begins wiping off the blood from his armor.

[Mathis]

Stepan spent some time calming down his breathing and found himself to be remarkably calm after his trial by fire. While he talked with the other soldiers he was cleaning his sword and armor.

"We lost a lot of guys didn't we? I suppose things went as smoothly as they could. I hope everything is ok at the colony, there might have been an attack there also, couldn't there?"

Stepan smiled and laughed nervously as Chrom approached, "Heh, thanks. First time I ever had to use that sword for anything but practice. I trained at the Church of Asar, with Master Billiam. I was to be a temple guard before we had news of the colony. Have you heard of him? And uh, kid? We look like we're about the same age no?

Anyway, we all did well. Do any of you have family here also?"

Stepan was dressed in a fairly well kept but old set of Scale Mail, and carried a large wooden shield that had probably never defended against anything worse than cold winds and practice swords. His longsword also looked old but well kept. It was probably straight out of the garrison armory. He had a large, thick woolen cloak with a fur collar as well to protect him from the coming winter winds. Stepan was also quite tall, even when kneeling down. Long arms and strong legs. With practice he seemed like he could become a promising soldier.

[smasher0404]

"Hmmmm, Master Billiam huh? Never heard of him, but if he was a swordmaster at the temple, he must have been pretty good. We might be the same age, but I've probably had much more experience, especially judging by the way you carried yourself, it made it obvious it was your first battle" Chrom muses as his continue to clean off his armor, before moving onto his sword.

"As for family, not to my knowledge. My personal interest in the colonies lies in the strange humanoids that were found here. If they've been living here for generations, they've probably developed a completely different style of fighting. One that I personally want to learn, or at least learn more about. Plus there wasn't much back in Albion for me anyways. I don't suppose I could interest you in a sparring match, non-lethal of course."

[esorscher]

You find from your questioning that there is little in the way of official worship in the colony, yet. People pray in their homes, and some congregate with other worshippers in a rotating service that takes place at a different person's home every time, but there are no Temples or anything of that nature, yet.

However, your search for a healer is cut short by the timely arrival of Captain Darius, who has a small pouch in one hand, and you note is wearing a new belt. He reaches into the pouch and removes a berry for each of you, which he instructs you to eat. You find yourself totally nourished from a single berry, and you feel heartier and healthier for the experience. If you wish more berries, you need only to ask.

1 point of health per berry eaten, maximum of 8 HP

"I am pleased you have been assigned to my command," Darius says, "You fought well, with valor and courage, in ways that would make your ancestors proud. It is because of your valiance that we have been assigned a mission of great importance."

He gathers you close around him, and whispers to avoid being overheard, "You know there are at least two--well, now, at least three--potentially hostile species on the continent. The Crown wishes specimens for study. We are to capture a male and female" he glances down at his notes, "Ehvehd for transport back to Albion."

He gives you time to voice your opinions and concerns on the mission before continuing. "We have been assigned this duty, and we will complete it, or we will find ourselves unemployed and likely in chains. You will find bunk space in the bunkhouse nearest the Keep." He points out the bunkhouse in question, sitting in the shadow of an impressive wood and earth hillfort.

[J-H]

Crockett
Crockett takes 5 of the berries, and sighs in relief as the aches and pains fade.

"Chains for simply failing? What if we cannot find one?

What is an Ehvehd? What do they look like, where do they live, what is known? If it moves through the forest, I can trap or find it given time, but I must know my prey."

[esorscher]

Crockett
Crockett takes 5 of the berries, and sighs in relief as the aches and pains fade.

"Chains for simply failing? What if we cannot find one?

What is an Ehvehd? What do they look like, where do they live, what is known? If it moves through the forest, I can trap or find it given time, but I must know my prey."

"The Ehvehd are humanoid in shape, with skin that is patterned to camouflage against the forest. We know they live in small communities of hunter-gatherers with limited agriculture. We know there is at least one community relatively close by, the region has been marked on my map."

"Failure is not an option, nor is refusal. The Crown paid for our voyage over, and intends to reap the profits, as is to be expected from a mutually beneficial transaction. If we fail to uphold our end of the bargain, they have other means of collection." Your mind flashes on the various debtors who were onboard the ship, and the fate that awaited them, working as chain-gangs on the Crown's cash-crop farms.

[smasher0404]

Chrom eats 6 of the berries rather hungrily.

"My concern is if we will get reinforcements. I enjoy a good fight and all but just landing here had us lose half of our men. Now we have to head into enemy territory. Can we expect any reinforcements or is this going to be just us?"

[esorscher]

Chrom eats 6 of the berries rather hungrily.

"My concern is if we will get reinforcements. I enjoy a good fight and all but just landing here had us lose half of our men. Now we have to head into enemy territory. Can we expect any reinforcements or is this going to be just us?"

"Your concern is shared by all members of the officer corps. Reinforcements have been requested and should arrive on the next voyage in six months. In the meantime, we will make do with the men we have, despite how we might wish otherwise." From his tone it is clear that Darius has already argued the point with his superiors and been rebuffed.

[smasher0404]

"Sir, if you don't mind me asking, how many men might that be? All of the ships suffered heavy losses, it might be a good idea to reform the units so that each company has more men."

[esorscher]

"Sir, if you don't mind me asking, how many men might that be? All of the ships suffered heavy losses, it might be a good idea to reform the units so that each company has more men."

"That process is underway, but for now we will have to make do with the seven of us," he says, gesturing to you and the two other crown soldiers in the circle.

[Hamste]

Upon recieving a berry and seeing what it does for others Pyrom asks. Would it be ok if I saved mine, sir? I didn't actually get hurt so if we are going into a fight I would like it have it on hand. Also will saps or other non-lethal weapons be provided?


When they give the count of soldiers Pyrom says.
Uh... Sir, I think we are missing one person. I did a count of the living when I was checking to make sure everyone alive was ok and counted 7 people not including you.

[esorscher]

"Of course, saving your berry is no trouble, and of course, saps and nets are provided, as are some other equipment we may find useful. In addition to the supply of goodberries, I was also provided this healing belt, which can provide us with limited emergency healing."

At the numbers question, "Yes, Raymond has been temporarily reassigned to General Amador's staff. You may question the wisdom of reducing the numbers and therefore the efficacy of this unit for this important mission--in private."

[smasher0404]

"So Captain, do you have any sort of plan? Or is this more of a get there and improvise deal?" asks Chrom "Because if its the latter we might want to head out now, so we have time to plan"

[esorscher]

"Actually, I do have a plan. It'll take us about six hours to get to the region, then we'll begin searching for signs of the Ehvehd. We'll leave at midnight tonight and begin our search at dawn."

If there are no more questions, he'll leave you to explore the colony. You have roughly 12 hours to do what you wish. From your position in the Docks neighborhood, you can see the Keep, the docks, and the bunkhouse, but you could also follow the lone road deeper into the continent.

You have a rough idea of where Martin's lands are.

[J-H]

Crockett
"Sir, can I take a look at the map? Need to see what landmarks we have, especially if we're starting out at night. And where do we bunk?"


Crockett is going to try to figure out as much as he can to navigate to the correct area, and around it, and back.


After that, he'll get some food, check out the town for anything interesting (places to buy better gear later?), look outside the town to see what the forest is like, and then rack out early to try to get at least 6 hours of sleep. Any interesting birds or local wildlife?

[Hamste]

Drinking wasn't an option as he was going to be on duty in a few hours. He goes off to see if there was a tavern anyways. Make sure he knew where it was. Maybe he could see if he could pick up anyone relatively early in the evening or at least set up for later. Then he would find where they were supposed to sleep seeing there was just so much time left.

[smasher0404]

Chrom decided to head towards the keep looking for a training yard of some kind. If he is able to find one, he'll train there for 4 hours or else he'll find some secluded area and continue to train and drill there. When finished, he'll head to the bunkhouse to claim his bunk.

[Mathis]

"You are right, I've never actually had to use any weapons outside the practice yard before. I guess I'm glad for all those grueling exercises now, hah!" Stepan's laugh was nervous and it was obvious that he was trying to impress the more seasoned warriors, including Chrom by appearing casual about what had just happened. "We'll have to spar some other time, I need time to recover."

When presented with the berries, Stepan eats heartily. He eats as many as he is allowed and consumes 7 berries.



He gives you time to voice your opinions and concerns on the mission before continuing. "We have been assigned this duty, and we will complete it, or we will find ourselves unemployed and likely in chains. You will find bunk space in the bunkhouse nearest the Keep." He points out the bunkhouse in question, sitting in the shadow of an impressive wood and earth hillfort.

"Then we'll have to succeed, how hard can it be? Although, if they are as friendly as the fish people we might be in for a bit of a challenge."

Stepan his 12 hours helping his family unpack their things from the ship and sending them on their way to his uncles farm with assurances that he would come visit as often as possible.

When it was all done he joined Chrom in finding the barracks and their bunks, getting familiar with the keep and where they'd be getting their food and so on. He would try to get as much rest and relaxation as possible before their mission began later that night.

[esorscher]

Crockett and Pyrom find a single building that passes for an tavern, which is little more than a room with a bar and some tables and chairs. It is empty, except for the bartender, a woman of about 30 with curly red hair. She offers you food--a cheap stew--and the only available beverage, a grain based alcohol. Crockett leaves Pyrom to go exploring, and finds that the local flora and fauna are intriguing, but unexceptional. They appear to be of similar species to plants and animals on the mainland, fulfilling similar ecological niches, though differing slightly in their appearance. For example, the spotted squirrel he sees is patterned with twelve spots of irregular size rather than sixteen spots of regular size. Pyrom remains in the tavern, which remains empty until the evening, when people begin trickling in for dinner and drinks. Pyrom is able to introduce himself to various targets of seduction, and lay groundwork with some success, like any good pick-up artist leaving them wanting more as duty calls you all back to the bunkhouse, where Chrom and Stepan are already sparring, with both of them learning from the experience (+1 circumstance bonus on your next attack made within 12 hours).

You meet with Alzar, who leads you into the wilderness. The travel is difficult, but manageable, and you arrive at the region marked on his map. "According to our intelligence, the Ehvehd have been regularly spotted here. Start looking for tracks, or any other sign of them."

[J-H]

Crockett

Crockett starts looking in the morning light. "Forgive the presumption sir, but - did anyone try asking some of these Ehvehd if they wanted to go visit home?"


Search [roll0]
Survival [roll1]
K:Nature [roll2]

[Hamste]

Hmmm, they were looking for forest people. If one was to live in the forest how would one hide? The trees seemed likely, get away from ground predators at least. Seemed as good of place as any to keep an eye. In the very least it might lower the chance of an ambush if he looked at the tree line for anything suspicious.


He is looking at the trees seeing if notice any signs of them.

[roll0]

[esorscher]

"We never had the chance," Darius answer Crockett, "We haven't seen them in over three months."

[smasher0404]

Chrom is going to "hunt" for food. Basically look for/track any thing that the natives might hunt or gather and stake those out.


Survival: [roll0]
Search: [roll1]

[Mathis]

Stepan took it upon himself to carry one of the saps that had been mentioned, and volunteers to carry a fair share of the equipment they are bringing a long as he has space for more in his backpack.

"Three months? That's an extremely long time isn't it? Are we going to where they were seen last? A camp of some sort? Or do they move around, like herds of animals?" There were so many questions, and all of them seemed to pour out of Stepan at once. The heavy armor slowed him down and he was somewhere in the pack of the group, staring wide-eyed at the strange and beautiful nature. "So how deep into fall are we here? I understand that winter is closing in on us? Is there going to be a lot of these exploration missions in the snow?"

[esorscher]

"We haven't seen any snow, yet, which is surprising, though, of course, if you look at that mountain range in the distance you'll see snow, there. May be that this continent has a different climate then we're used to, suffice it to say it will be an interesting winter."

"When we first made contact with the Ehvehd, they would meet a group of our explorers here and escort them back to their village. We're looking for a path, or maybe some tracks, to indicate where that village is--or at least, what direction its in."

Chrom finds several potential food sources: nuts and berries that can be readily gathered from the nearby trees and shrubs; a blue, mossy fungus that peels easily off the tree bark and reminds you of the consistency of rubbery pancakes; a bird's nest with three eggs; and parallel tracks belonging to rodents of some kind.

Pyrom's search of the trees is fruitless, although he does see that some of the trees are fruit-bearing.

[Hamste]

Hmmm, nothing in the trees at least. Maybe they weren't that type of people? Or maybe they just acted in a similar manner to the visitors so they wouldn't be on edge.

Do the explorers not know which direction it is, sir? Also could one of us climb a tree to see if anyone can see smoke blocking the stars or light from the village? Even if it is relatively small they would still need some fires right? Also out of curiosity do we have any parchment? It would be nice to have something to draw on to try to communicate if we are given the chance.

Pyrom says turning his eye away from the trees to try to help with finding the camp.

If possible Pyrom is aiding whoever has the best chance of finding tracks.
[roll0]

[esorscher]

"The explorers were not permitted to see the path to or from the village, and well, let's just say that not all the explorers were entirely forthcoming with information. Based on our previous experience, the Ehvehd do use fire for cooking, but not to see at night, and they are capable of understanding our speech through magic." He pats his coat pockets, and finds a folded up letter from Royal Army Human Resources confirming his change of address, which he passes over to you with a pencil for you to write on the back of. "But getting a better view of the area isn't a bad idea. If you can find a tall tree, go for it, otherwise, we can make for the mountain range. Once we get to a high enough elevation, we might be able to see some clearings or other potentially inhabited spots."

[Hamste]

Is it possible that they used magic to cover their tracks? Perhaps using it on the explorers while also using the comprehension magic? If they were nervous about people finding where they lived that seems like a good way to cover it if that is possible. Pyrom asks as pockets the piece of paper and pencil in case he saw someone he needed to speak to. If he happens to see a large tree he will point it out in case someone is better at climbing than him. He tried to remember if he saw any particularly large ones when he was looking at the trees earlier.

[smasher0404]

Chrom takes the time to gather up some of the nuts and berries, unable to pick up a trail to follow rom these food sources beyond that of small rodents. He then finally chimes in "If these Ehvehd only come here to meet with our explorers, there is no reason suspect they would stick around if they don't want to meet with us. If I may suggest sir, we should head up the mountain now rather than continue searching this particular area."

[esorscher]

"Anything is possible, and I encourage you to pursue every avenue. My skill at tracking is limited." He says, looking around at you, "That's why I brought all of you. If we have exhausted our efforts here, then Chrom is right--there is no use waiting for them to show up."


Your journey through the underbush is no more difficult nor any easier than your previous trek, and after several hours the ground begins sloping upward. All the while you have witnessed a wide variety of natural phenomenon, wild creatures and plants that, consistent with what you have seen already on your adventure, can be compared to species back home, with slight variation.

The ground starts sloping downward again, and you realize that your hope, that you had reached the mountains, is unfulfilled. You are uncertain of the distance to the mountain range, but it is getting to be close to nightfall, and you have not yet reached it.

Darius seems intent on continuing to travel through the night, but has shown a willingness to listen to his subordinates if they make reasonable objection.

[Hamste]

Assuming we go for the mountains


So has any particularly dangerous wild life been reported in the mountains? Anything we should keep an eye out for, sir?

Pyrom says. He won't complain about going through the night. Camping this close to potentially dangerous people who can see in the dark seemed more dangerous than wondering around in the dark.

[J-H]

Crockett
"Do we know if they can see in the dark, sir? We can't, and stumbling around by moonlight searching may not work well. We need to stop and rest at some point."

[Hamste]

As a counterpoint to that, sir. Sleeping in a forest with people who may not like us looking around, who can use magic, who don't use fires to see and who have skin that is camouflage in a forest seems like a bad idea tactically. At least with the mountain it is harder for people to sneak up on us. All we have to do is find it, and it is a mountain so it seems unlikely we lose it as long as it doesn't become too cloudy.

[esorscher]

Crockett's point is well taken. While the Ehvehd can see in the dark, you can not. "There are large predators, the Ahkaveesh is one, like a giant spider essentially but more dangerous. There are others, no doubt." Alzar orders a halt in the march and you are able to set up camp.

[J-H]

Crockett volunteers to take the third shift of the night watch.

[smasher0404]

"Giant spiders you say? Sounds interesting, do they often live in regions like this?" inquires Chrom

Chrom volunteers to take first watch, giving him time to do some weapon drills before heading to bed.

[esorscher]

"To my knowledge, no such creatures have ever been encountered in the Old World." In other words, there is no way to know.

I'll update tomorrow night on the results of the night, assuming you arrange a watch, but giving you until that time to post any roleplay stuff.

[Hamste]

Pyrom helps to set up camp. He still disagreed with the choice but he wasn't going to keep arguing. How are we doing watches? 2 people to a watch? I guess I take watch number two though I don't really have a preference.
Pyrom says in response to the question of the watch.

[esorscher]

Night comes, and goes, and you awake, and continue your trek toward the mountains after completing your morning rituals. As you progress through the wilderness, you keep a watchful eye on your surroundings.

Make Spot and Listen checks.

[J-H]

Crockett
"At least we're not in a marsh with lots of midges and mosquitos."


Suggestion: If you roll spot/listen/initiative for everyone, it speed things up; with a larger or slower group, DM-rolled passive checks can cut off days at a time spent waiting for dice rolls.

Spot [roll0]
Listen [roll1]

[Hamste]

[roll0] Spot

[roll1] Listen

[smasher0404]

Spot:

Listen:
[Roll]1d20

[smasher0404]

Listen roll : [roll0]

[Mathis]

"Aye Crockett, that is something. This land is quite beautiful though isn't it. I can't wait until the snow falls, the beautiful sunrises we'll see..."
And so Stepan drones on for much of their marching. Paying little attention to the surrounding woodland and noticing all the little unimportant things instead of doing what he should have been doing.

Perception:

Spot:(1d20-1)[9]
Listen:(1d20-1)[0]

[esorscher]

You notice nothing, and continue on your way unimpeded. Another day comes and goes with no sign of your quarry. Climbing a tree, one of you puts your group about a day's march away from the foot of the mountain. You rest. You wake. You continue marching, keeping watchful eyes for any sign of the Ehvehd. You continue to be unsuccessful. You reach the mountain and begin scaling it. It is not especially challenging, at first, but about 300 yards up the slope you encounter a rocky cliff face that can be scaled with difficulty.

Climb checks.

I could make the checks for you, but then, what would you have to do?

[smasher0404]

"If someone has some rope and wants to help me get out of my armor, I could probably climb up first and tie the rope to something to help everyone else"

[Hamste]

Seems like as good of an idea as any. I don't have rope. Pyrom says ready to climb the wall.



[roll0] climb no circumstance bonus included as I don't know if we have rope to use or not.

[J-H]

Crockett

Crockett takes his pack off, digs around in it, and produces 25' of sturdy silk rope. "I think this'll be enough," he says as he looks up. He then re-packs his bag, silently wishing for the magic backpack produced by the mage Heward.


Climb [roll0]
Use rope [roll1]


He isn't able to find a way up, so someone else will have to haul the rope to the top.

[smasher0404]

Chrom strips himself of his armor, neatly polishing and packing away the pieces into his backpack before beginning his ascent. Lowering the rope after he ties it using his body weight as an additional anchor


Climb [roll0]
Search (to Find a place to Tie it) [roll1]
Use Rope [roll2]
Once he reaches the top he'll put his armor back on.

[esorscher]

You manage to make your way up the mountain to a narrow ledge that is just wide enough for you to pause, and rest. The ledge extends in both directions around the mountain as far as you can see, and you could continue to ascend the mountain, if you so choose. From your vantage point, you can spot five forest clearings that look reasonably likely to be spaces where a semi-nomadic tribe might spend time. They are scattered seemingly randomly, but also could be described in terms of nearest to farthest.

[Hamste]

Hmmm, if I had to guess it is the third or fourth furthest from where we entered the forest. They are hunter gatherers but we found food near where we entered and it is presumably closing in on winter. They would have to store food to survive and food close to them should be the first things gathered. I'm not guessing fifth as they had to travel to the meeting place.
Pyrom suggests.

[smasher0404]

"Perhaps, it might be advisable to split up our unit into several groups? Scout out more than one clearing at a time, and regroup here once we find the settlement. It might speed our search up by quite a bit" replies Chrom

[Hamste]

Might be a good idea, though isn't there some worries about those spider things? Pyrom points out.

[J-H]

Crockett

"When hunting dangerous prey, never split up. It's a good way for someone to get killed. I say we stay together."

[smasher0404]

Chrom

"I don't intend for any member of our unit to directly engage the enemy on their own, a simple scouting mission shouldn't pose too much of a threat to any of us. I suggest a compromise, we divide the unit and two and search two at a time, allowing us to have safety in numbers and the ability to cut the search time in half"