[4e] Keep on the Shadowfell IC

[Anonomuss]

Maria and Firemoon- West of Winterhaven
The road from Shadowdale to Arabel is not an easy one, particularly for a child that has not yet seen ten summers or for an adult trying to avoid pursuers that are hounding their charge. Little surprise then, when the mismatched pair found themselves far from their intended destination, forging their way through the forests at the base of the Thunderpeaks and foraging for what little food that could be found. It was a relief then to come upon a path once again, doubly so when they almost immediately encountered a friendly trade caravan that was traveling along the road. While it wasn’t headed to their destination, but instead to a nearby town of Winterhaven, it offered relief for weary feet, and a helpful misdirection from any pursuit which could be following.

Maria sat upon the front of a cart, next to its owner, a cheerful, older woman by the name of Margo Zewinter. She often turned to look at the diminutive girl and smile at her, as though reminding herself that she was still there. Firemoon sat behind them both in the bed of the cart amidst its cargo. It had barrels of food and drink, together with seeds and sundry supplies for their destination. Hidden in the midst of the supplies was also a thick, heavily locked chest which Firemoon sat on.

Ahead of their cart, a heavily armed group of mercenaries, described by Margo as “Arabel’s Irregulars” rode in a wagon ahead of them. Occasionally one or two would hop off the wagon to stretch their legs or to investigate something they saw through the trees. They were an odd bunch. There was a heavily armed human, who led the wagon, ushering it’s horses on confidently, her hair gathered behind her head in a loose knot. There was also a pair of dwarves that complained loudly but otherwise chuckled and chatted in low voices amongst themselves, They were dressed in studded leathers and the longer one looked at them, the more blades seemed to be stowed about their person. The dwarves often cast looks at a human who was dressed in light leathers, but who looked uncomfortable in them. He seemed to assemble and disassemble a mechanical contraption almost obsessively, when he wasn’t scribbling notes in a thick leather-bound tome. The last of the Irregulars was a rough looking half-Orc, who radiated menace and whose gaze seemed to pierce the darkness of the trees around them.

“Shan’t be long now, my dears” Margo said, to no one in particular. “We’ll be in Winterhaven before nightfall, make no mistake.” She laughed softly, and turned to address Maria and Firemoon more directly. “I’m sure you two will need some rest before you plan your next journey.”

There was a shout from the forward wagon. “There’s something up ahead in the road!” The woman leading the wagon called. “Looks like a fallen tree.”


Red Wind - West of Winterhaven
The Captain of the Arabel guard gave Red Wind a curious glance as he outlined the task to the group of Irregulars. Such untrusting glances did not bely his wanted nature, Red Wind had learned shortly after entering the city but rather due to his unusual, desert-beaten attire and the distrust of his orcish heritage. The group of five was an odd lot, their clothes and body language betraying them as being a rag-tag group, with no experience of working together. The task they were entrusted with was fairly simple, make the way to Winterfell, accompanying a trade caravan, and provide assistance to the Lord of Winterhaven as they require. The Captain handed one of the other Irregulars, a woman clad in heavy armour, a piece of paper sealed with wax, explaining that it contained a recommendation of the group's reliability for Lord Padraig and that the group would be provided with pay by the Lord himself. The Captain made their way back to their desk and pulled out five pouches, each of which jingled and passed them out to the group, for expenses related to protecting the caravan all the way to Winterhaven.

The motley group had been assigned a wagon, pulled by an ill-tempered, dapple-grey horse. The wagon itself had enough room for twice as many people, if packed tightly, but it was to be their transport for at leave five days of travel, with only intermittent stops and so the added room was quite necessary. The little group talked little as they clambered aboard, the armored woman waiting to see if anyone would take the reins of wagon before climbing onto the front of the cart and taking the reins. A pair of dwarves took up one of the benches along the side of the wagon, while a human in ill-fitting leathers was seated as far in as possible on the other side, before Red Wind climbed in. Once they were all settled in place, the wagon took off with a steady beat of hooves and the creaking of the rolling wheels of the wagon.

The wagon met with their assigned trade wagon, outside the walls of Arabel and began its journey along the East Road, towards Winterhaven. The journey was silent for only a while, as the group slowly began to introduce themselves. The woman leading the wagon was Elena, an acolyte of Helm, who had taken up the task as an act of devotion to the Watcher. The dwarves, Morden and Woll, were sellswords who had family up in Winterhaven and took the task as an opportunity to visit. The man who sat next to Red Wind was called Herbert and they were barely outside the city when he took a mechanical contraption out of his pack and began to disassemble and reassemble it. Over the course of a few probing questions from Elena, it emerged that his brother was in the Arabel Guard and had recommended that he take the job, rather than remaining cooped up in his lodgings for another week. Though a few asked Red Wind of his origins, none seemed too keen to probe too deeply.

The Irregulars kept their wits about them on the road, but the journey was largely uneventful. Towards the end of the third day of travel, an unusual pair emerged from the forest to the north of the road, a child and a heavily armed grown man. They both looked as though the had been travelling for a good number of days, seeming worn and tired. The guard wagon would have rolled on past, without a second glance, but that the cart they were escorting stopped behind them. Elena halted the cart and moved back to see what was going on, but returned a few moments later shaking her head. The pair climbed up into the trade caravan, where the cheery woman was already digging into her provisions for something to give to them.

On the fifth day, shortly before the wagon was due to arrive in Winterhaven, Elena let out a cry, back towards the cart they were leading. “There’s something up ahead in the road!” She began to slow the wagon before adding. “Looks like a fallen tree.” This spurred the dwarves into motion, pulling out knives, their eyes scanning the treeline. "Foine place for an ambush." Morden drawled.


Evaliir - Somewhere North of Winterhaven
A chill wind rustled through the branches of the trees about Evaliir as he picked his way through the wooded slopes of the Thunderpeaks. He had heard enough of the settlement known as Winterhaven to know that it was nestled deep in a valley within the range of mountains, but no map or description he had come across gave a more accurate description of where it lay other than “along the East Road between Arabel and Highmoon.”

The path towards it, then, brought him through the depths of Cormanthor Forest and past Ashabenford, to the forests beyond. A scouting party had accompanied him to the border of the forest but turned back at the outer reaches of Highmoon, near the base of the Thunderpeaks.

The trees here were little different than those in the Cormanthor Forest, though perhaps a little sparser and, from what Evaliir had seen, less filled with life. He had caught glimpses of some forest life, birds, deer and foxes mostly but as a whole the forest was still and quiet.

It was in this quiet that he heard the careful and practiced movement of another, picking their way through the trees. Turning his gaze he spied a hooded figure, bow drawn and arrow nocked, moving as though they had their eye on some prey he could not see. They were dressed in plain greens and browns and with their graceful, practiced movement they almost blended into the surrounding forest.

From where he watched, Evaliir suspected he could stay where he was unseen, but this figure might have some knowledge of how he might find his way to Winterhaven, if they were friendly.


Adrie - East of Winterhaven
It has been a number of months since Adrie made her way from Westgate, her path bringing her across the Dragonmere and to the city of Highmoon. The prosperous city filled with a vibrant community of humans and elves was a pleasant place to stay though there were few places in the city where the Joybringer’s light was truly needed.

In tending to the poor that she did find, Adrie came to know an acolyte of Chauntea by the name of Gevarn Hightree. He is a thin, wiry man who came from a nearby town of Winterhaven and seems burdened by both suspicions and despair. As Gevarn spoke with Adrie, he began to explain that he had come to Highmoon to try and find a Druid that had gone missing. With a quavering voice he explained that he was followed and almost assailed on the road but managed to slip away. Though Gevarn seemed paranoid, he was also earnest about the difficulties that Winterhaven faces. It’s crops had been failing for a number of years and there was growing unrest and discontent amongst its inhabitants. Most recently, the town has been plagued with kobold attacks on supply caravans and outlying farms.

Detecting an opportunity to spread the word of the Joybringer and to make a real difference, Adrie agreed to return with Gevarn along the East Road to Winterhaven.

The journey along the road was not unpleasant, a winding trail along a path work through the trees that grew either side of the East Road, though Gevarn was jumping at shadows along almost the entire road, though he seemed comforted by Adrie’s presence.

On the final day of the journey, he seemed to relax at last. “Almost there” he said with a nervous smile, turning to Adrie. “Once we crest this ridge, you’ll be able to see Winterhaven in all its glory.” He added with a wry smile, only to stiffen and reach for a mace on his belt as a bellow emitted from the forest that lines the left hand side of the road.

The bellowing grew nearer an nearer, until ahead of the pair on the road, a roaring bear emerged from the treeline, dashing into the open and turning to roar back from whence it came. Its eyes were wild as it turned to take in Adrie and Gevarn upon the road, huffing as its great body shook. It didn’t move towards them, but roared again, blood marked along its brown hide and arrow shafts protruding from its haunches. “I... I think we should back off” Gevarn said, taking one step back and then another.

[onlie2005]

If there was one thing about Maria, it was that she was courageous and stubborn. She had a headlong, confrontational tendency towards problems and she did her absolute best given every situation. Of course putting this attitude into actual practice was easier said than done. Moving through the forest was easy. She had lived in a town surrounded by forests all her life and would play there all the time with her friends. Or when she helped her mother gather herbs and provisions for the winter. But everytime she did she had a home to return to and a soft bed. She was not used to long travels and sleeping on the ground although she did her best with as little complaint as possible. Besides she was still mourning her parents and was too preoccupied on crying silently at night or simply going through the motions even though her mind was not totally in it. The pain seemed to dull over with time and soon survival instincts began to take over.

The caravan provided a nice reprieve at least and now Maria was able to rest her tired feet for a few days. For the most part she keeps to herself and rarely talks to anyone. She is polite and if anything else shy and meek. Occasionally she could be seen perusing the medium sized book with the engraving of a teddy bear on it she keeps in her backpack. If anything she keeps alert, a little more than most little girls her age. She seems serious and more cautious. This would seem very uncharacteristic to some adults but for Maria it was more understandable. She had a price on her head.

When hearing about the fallen tree, she takes something out of the side pocket of her backpack. It is a small, slender rod that looks suspiciously like a wand and holds it while she looks to Firemoon for guidance. She is now on high alert, looking all around for any suspicious movement that might indicate an ambush.

[roll0]

[Phantom Genius]

That sounds like an old bandit trick, he grumbles.

Firemoon readies his shield and sling and moves to where he could cover Maria.
See anything?

[Anonomuss]

Maria and Firemoon- West of Winterhaven

Firemoon is forced to brace himself against the cart as he stood up to move to where he could stand next to Maria as the cart slowly juddered to a halt.

The movement of the cart was a hindrance to Maria as well, as she peered into the trees on either side. She wasn’t able to make out whether the movement she saw was the breeze, or perhaps something moving behind the foliage.

Margo reached over with her free hand, as she guided the cart to a halt with her other hand, and pulled Maria close. “Don’t you worry, my dear. Between the Irregulars and me, and your friend there, no harm will come to you.”

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Unsure of the forester's intention, Evaliir dropped to a low crouch and moved towards a nearby tree. While not as old as the trees within the Cormanthor forests, was massive enough to provide some cover from his quarry, should the forester check over his shoulder. Silently, he drew his bow, placing an arrow upon the string with a graceful, practiced motion.

He moved closer, avoiding dry undergrowth, sweeping debris with his foot before placing a careful, stealthy step, drawing closer to the mysterious figure, intent upon learning their intentions.


OOC: Not sure if we're in combat; however I will use a Minor action to mark the solitary figure with Hunter's Quarry, a Move action to make a Stealth check, [roll0], approach at 1/2 speed, so moving 15' closer to the figure to determine what prey he is so intent upon stalking. My final Standard action to quietly draw my bow and put an arrow on the string.

[Anonomuss]

Evaliir - Somewhere North of Winterhaven
As Evaliir moved to step closer to the figure, darting from cover to cover to keep out of their eyeline, his foot landed badly upon a fallen branch that he had not seen and it snapped beneath his weight. The crisp crack that emanated from the split branch echoed deafeningly in the forest, or so it seemed to Evaliir’s ears.

The hunter he was watching whirled about, tracking the source of the sound, their bow half-raised and ready to fire, their earlier quarry forgotten. As they turned, their hood feel back revealing an angular, elven face and pointed ears that mirrored Evaliir’s own. This hunter’s hair was dark, however, and her features softer. Now that she had turned, Evaliir could make out the leather armor she wore and the two rabbits already hanging from her belt.

As the Hunter took in Evaliir from a distance, she glanced back briefly towards where their prey had been, before fixing Evaliir with a glare. She stood up straight from her hunched stance and slowly moved towards Evaliir, never releasing her grip on her bow or the nocked arrow. “I haven’t seen you before” she said tersely, in Common, her voice cutting through the silence, though she didn’t raise it. “Are you one of Aagir’s lot or do you have other business?” She asked, sizing Evaliir up, seeming to be wound tight like a bowstring.


You are not currently in initiative. Both you and the Hunter are aware of one another, so no surprise rounds if Combat does kick off.

EDIT: At this point, you are about 60’ from one another.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Seeing the angular face, the graceful cheekbones, the narrow chin of the tel'Quessir, he relaxed somewhat, however her terse words kept him on edge. He spoke in the tongue of his people, "I am Evaliir of House Andaerean, traveled from Myth Dranor, guided by the Seldarine, through dream and wood, to find the town of Winterhaven." As he spoke, he lowered his bow, to the left and off center from the woman's center mass.

"I know naught this Aagir, of whom you speak. So tell me true lady of the wood, who are you and what do you stalk with such focus?"

[onlie2005]

Maria was about to ask Firemoon if he could help but realized something. The intelligent child realized that if the group were to work together to move the tree, it might leave the supply wagon open to attack. The tree could not only be a classic trap for the ones in front but also a decoy while bandits could do an end around and attempt to take the supply wagon.

Firemoon it may be better that you stay here. The tree might also be used as a decoy. While every guard is used to move the tree the bandits if any may end around us and attack the vulnerable supply wagon., Maria then yells ahead to the guard wagon, Maybe you should send one or two of the Irregulars to make sure no bandits attack the supply wagon while you move the tree.

[Anonomuss]

Evaliir - Somewhere North of Winterhaven
The hunter relaxed as Evaliir spoke, moving her bow away from its ready stance. She hesitated for a moment, before responding in clipped, unpracticed elven. “Welcome then, friend of the forest, Evaliir of House Andaerean.” she began, bowing shallowly. “You are far from home, but if it is Winterhaven you seek, I would be happy to be your guide.”

The tenseness left her body and she returned her arrow to her quiver and unstrung her bow. “I am Ninaran, of no House.” She continued, starting to move away from Evaliir and gesturing for him to follow. “I hunt wild animals, Evaliir. I am a hunter, by trade, and sell both food and hide to the people of Winterhaven. I was on the trail of a deer when I heard you, but I expect it is far from here now.” She stopped and scowled for a moment. “Aagir Tann is another Hunter but he and his fellows should be far from here.” She shook her head and continued on. “Come, if Seldarine has led you this far, the least I can do is guide you the rest of the way.”

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind - West of Winterhaven
The Captain of the Arabel guard gave Red Wind a curious glance as he outlined the task to the group of Irregulars. Such untrusting glances did not bely his wanted nature, Red Wind had learned shortly after entering the city but rather due to his unusual, desert-beaten attire and the distrust of his orcish heritage. The group of five was an odd lot, their clothes and body language betraying them as being a rag-tag group, with no experience of working together. The task they were entrusted with was fairly simple, make the way to Winterfell, accompanying a trade caravan, and provide assistance to the Lord of Winterhaven as they require. The Captain handed one of the other Irregulars, a woman clad in heavy armour, a piece of paper sealed with wax, explaining that it contained a recommendation of the group's reliability for Lord Padraig and that the group would be provided with pay by the Lord himself. The Captain made their way back to their desk and pulled out five pouches, each of which jingled and passed them out to the group, for expenses related to protecting the caravan all the way to Winterhaven.

The motley group had been assigned a wagon, pulled by an ill-tempered, dapple-grey horse. The wagon itself had enough room for twice as many people, if packed tightly, but it was to be their transport for at leave five days of travel, with only intermittent stops and so the added room was quite necessary. The little group talked little as they clambered aboard, the armored woman waiting to see if anyone would take the reins of wagon before climbing onto the front of the cart and taking the reins. A pair of dwarves took up one of the benches along the side of the wagon, while a human in ill-fitting leathers was seated as far in as possible on the other side, before Red Wind climbed in. Once they were all settled in place, the wagon took off with a steady beat of hooves and the creaking of the rolling wheels of the wagon.

The wagon met with their assigned trade wagon, outside the walls of Arabel and began its journey along the East Road, towards Winterhaven. The journey was silent for only a while, as the group slowly began to introduce themselves. The woman leading the wagon was Elena, an acolyte of Helm, who had taken up the task as an act of devotion to the Watcher. The dwarves, Morden and Woll, were sellswords who had family up in Winterhaven and took the task as an opportunity to visit. The man who sat next to Red Wind was called Herbert and they were barely outside the city when he took a mechanical contraption out of his pack and began to disassemble and reassemble it. Over the course of a few probing questions from Elena, it emerged that his brother was in the Arabel Guard and had recommended that he take the job, rather than remaining cooped up in his lodgings for another week. Though a few asked Red Wind of his origins, none seemed too keen to probe too deeply.

The Irregulars kept their wits about them on the road, but the journey was largely uneventful. Towards the end of the third day of travel, an unusual pair emerged from the forest to the north of the road, a child and a heavily armed grown man. They both looked as though the had been travelling for a good number of days, seeming worn and tired. The guard wagon would have rolled on past, without a second glance, but that the cart they were escorting stopped behind them. Elena halted the cart and moved back to see what was going on, but returned a few moments later shaking her head. The pair climbed up into the trade caravan, where the cheery woman was already digging into her provisions for something to give to them.

On the fifth day, shortly before the wagon was due to arrive in Winterhaven, Elena let out a cry, back towards the cart they were leading. “There’s something up ahead in the road!” She began to slow the wagon before adding. “Looks like a fallen tree.” This spurred the dwarves into motion, pulling out knives, their eyes scanning the treeline. "Foine place for an ambush." Morden drawled.

Red Wind had kept largely to himself the past five days, not wanting to make conversation lest his temporary companions ask too many questions about his past and identity. Still, even if he wouldn't admit it, he had enjoyed their company, particularly the two dwarves who reminded him of his companions in the Howlers. He also had to acknowledge a grudging respect for their leader, Elena, who knew what she was about and did so without condescension, arrogance, or the vanity he had come to despise among the soft communities beyond the Anauroch Desert. Truth be told, he was more than a little bored. There was so little in these green lands that demanded the constant struggle and competition for survival that defined his life in the wastes; you could only sharpen your sword for so long. Still, it was nice to be paid not to have to do anything even if it wounded his pride.

In any case, it was hard to keep the eagerness from his voice when Elena called back that there was trouble ahead. Red Wind nods at the dwarf's assessment and answers roughly. Aye, so eye's open and blades drawn and 'ware the trees He takes his own advice, drawing his falchion from its sheath across his back. He climbs to a higher vantage point on the wagon and scans the treeline to either side of the wagon.

[roll0]

[LtPowers]

"Slowly, Gevarn. Slowly. No sudden moves," Adrie warns. "If it comes closer, play dead."

Adrie begins to move forward, slowly, almost imperceptibly, appearing as nonthreatening as she can. Her cat, Vikka, bolts up a nearby tree.

The Cleric peers at the bear, trying to determine if its anger is due to its injuries, or to hunger, or from trying to fight off the perceived threat posed by Adrie and Gevarn. If the bear's injuries are troubling it, she tries to ascertain if a Healing Word would be able to have an effect.

If the bear moves aggressively, she will play dead as she instructed Gevarn to do.


Adrie Everbright

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - East of Winterhaven

Adrie could tell that the bear was angry for a few reasons, partly because it was injured, partly because it was angry and partly because it wanted whatever it was bellowing at between the trees, to the south, to go away. The magic that the Joybringer granted Adrie would help to cure its wounds, but it would take more for it to believe it was no longer under threat.

The bear rose onto its hind legs, revealing a patch of paler fur on its underside as it roared, it's clawed paws flailing in the air as a pair of arrow shafts flew out of the dense forest towards the bear. One sank into the chest of the bear and another flew wide, impacting into the bark of a tree on the north side of the road. "Yeah, leaving would be good..." Gevarn said, gulping as he continued to step backwards from the sight before him. As keen as Gevarn was, he stopped as he looked on. "No, Adrie... wait... wait" He said, reaching out to hold her shoulder. "That bear... I used to see it with Jusik. It was only a cub... when I was still a lad, but I still recognise the fur on its stomach."

"Come on Dek, you can do better than that!" A voice came from between the trees to the south. "If it were any bigger it'd be a house!" As the bear returned to all fours and backed away from the arrows that had flown from the treeline and towards the North forest. As they approached, a trio of figures could be seen through the tree-line, two holding long-bows and a third wearing thick leather armor and carrying a heavy-looking wooden shield. They hadn't yet noticed Adrie or Gevarn down the road as they closed in towards the bear.


Red Wind, Maria and Firemoon- West of Winterhaven
Red Wind could not make out anything between the trees as he struggled to balance on the edge of the wagon's rear bed. Morden and Woll stepped off the back of the wagon and began to move towards the fallen tree. "Sooner we clear it, sooner we're gone." Woll said as he made his way towards the tree. None of the Irregulars seemed to pay Maria's advice any heed, though all made sure their weapons were ready, Herbert pulling out a complicated looking cross-bow and slotting some strange metallic attachments into place, bracing himself up against the front of the wagon. Elena stopped for a moment as she secured her long-sword about her waist. "Damn, the girl's right, isn't she..." She said quietly to herself as she looked around. "Morden, Woll. Go secure the wagon. Red Wind and I should be able to move this log." She gestured to Red Wind, "Come and give me a hand, once you're sure the coast is clear."

As the dwarves turned around and began to take up positions around the supply cart, there was a gutteral cry from within the forest to the north and all at once, the forest on either side was a blur of motion as diminutive scaled forms began to emerge from beneath the underbrush and from behind trees. Most of the creatures wielded crude-looking javelins, though a pair towards the front of the wagon held a sword and shield, while another pair wielded a sling, nearer to the supply caravan.

The air was suddenly filled with projectiles as the creatures sprung their trap. Morden received a nasty scrape from a javelin that glanced off his face, leaving blood to trickle down the front of his face. A nimble creature ran from the dark of the forest to stab at Herbert with its Javelin up at the front of the cart, scoring a shallow wound in his side. Woll got hit by a projectile thrown from a sling, which burst and covered his legs in a sticky substance that seemed to hold his feet to the floor. "What is this-" he began before a javelin found a place in his shoulder and his voice turned to a groan of pain.

Elena was too slow to raise her shield to deflect the javelin that went her way, and before she could react, a pair of the creatures with sword and shields attacked her from either side, one stabbing up beneath her shield and slashing at her torso, finding a weakness in her scale armor.

Margo grabbed hold of Maria and pulled her back towards the back of the cart. "Oh merciful Bahamut..." she breathed, as a javelin impacted in the seat next to her and a glue-pot splashed against the footguard of the cart. "We'll be alright darling." She said to Maria, though she was just as likely saying it to reassure herself.

One of the creatures rushed towards Red Wind and thrust a javelin towards him, finding a brief gap in his guard and jabbing its crude spear towards him.

Meanwhile, a pair of the creatures rushed out of the forest and towards the back of the cart, clambering up, only to find themselves facing Firemoon, his sling ready.


Combat Tracker (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1O5Yc4f1bzcEBKEHtC4v05Ls57sN6GE5d2rvJ9mYZbPQ/edit?usp=sharing)

So, ambush. Surprise, I guess? Only consolation is that the Kobolds spend their surprise round extracting themselves from a hidey-holes. :smalltongue:

I'm going to work with flat initiative (So everyone acts on 10+Initiative mod) as a trial, to save time on rolling initiative. I might experiment with rolling your initiatives myself, or getting everyone to roll in advance for the next combat if you guys would prefer some variety.

Any of you who've been keeping an eye on Buufreak's Scales of War game will recognise elements of the Combat Tracker linked above. Haven't quite gotten the hang of it yet, so for the moment, it's pretty much manual (and I'll do my best to keep it updated). Once you've guys have hit the relevant enemies on a particular defences, I will reveal the relevant defence value.

Kobolds are up first in initiative. Actions below:

KA1 moves from B18 to E14, then spends its standard action to clamber up onto the supply cart at G12
KA2 moves from M19 to P18, then attacks Morden from range with a Javelin. [roll0] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Miss.
KA3 moves from Q17 to R12, then attacks Red Wind in melee with a Javelin. [roll1] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA4 moves from U18 to R16, then attacks Morden from range with a Javelin. [roll2] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA5 moves from X16 to Y13, then shifts to Y12 with a minor action and attacks Herbert in melee with a Javelin. [roll3] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA6 moves from Y5 to Z5, then attacks Elena from range with a Javelin. [roll4] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA7 moves from T6 to S6, then attacks Woll from range with a Javelin. [roll5] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA8 moves from F4 to E9, then spends its standard action to clamber up on to the supply cart at G10, and finishes its move at H10.
KA9 moves from J2 to L5, then attacks Margo from range with a Javelin. [roll6] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Miss.
KA10 moves from Q3 to O5, then attacks Woll from range with a Javelin. [roll7] v AC, for 4 damage if it hits. Miss

KB1 moves from N5 to N6 and attacks Woll with a special shot from its sling. [roll8] v AC, for [roll9] if it hits, and Woll is Immobilized (Save ends). Hit.
KB2 moves from G20 to L19, then attacks Maria with a special shot from its sling. [roll10] v AC, for [roll11] if it hits, and Maria is Immobilized (save ends). Then it will spend its minor action to shift to M19. Miss - No ongoing effect.

KC1 moves from AA3 to AB7, then shifts to AB8 with its minor action, then attacks Elena with a short sword. [roll12] v AC, for [roll13] if it hits and she is marked until the end of its next turn. Hit.
KC2 moves from AC19 to AB15, then takes its standard action to move to AC11, then shifts to AB10.

??? is not visible.

Maria, Red Wind and Firemoon are up. Next are Elena, Woll, Morden, Herbert and Margo. Then we'll be back to the top of the round.

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind knew something was wrong by the way the shadows shifted in his peripheral vision when he turned to answer Elena's command. It was too late to react, so it was all he could do to bring his falchion to half-guard position. The javelin flashing up at what would have been his neck deflects to the side, scraping against his collarbone and drawing first blood. The half-orc doesn't flinch as he smiles and looks down at the creature. Your blood will feed the earth today, scalerat

His falchion flashes up, moving gracefully in his hands. The blade turns lazy spirals as Red Wind watches the creatures movements. Seeing an opportunity as the spear-wielder shifts its weight for another thrust, Red Wind brings his falchion across in a short cut, not so much swinging the cut as pushing it with a shove of his body at his foe.

Minor Action - Activate Defender's Aura
Standard Action - Jarring Smash (https://dnd4.fandom.com/wiki/Jarring_smash) on KA3 - [roll0] for [roll1] damage and target is marked until end of your next turn.

[onlie2005]

Maria frowns as her warnings are not taken seriously. And as expected the supply wagon was a target as well as the guard wagon. Beckoning Firemoon to take care of the kobolds behind the wagon, Maria gently nudges Margo aside and points her wand towards the two kobolds to the far left of the wagon and mutters something that causes a lightning bolt to fly out of her wand and towards said Kobolds.


KB1: [roll0]
KA9: [roll1]


[roll2]
Reroll natural 1 roll of damage: [roll3]

[LtPowers]

"Hunters, hold your arrows. We are travelers," Adrie announces, while being ready to dodge any wayward arrows. "You've well angered this bear; have you good reason for it?"


Adrie Everbright

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

He nodded his head with a smile, "You do me a great service Lady Ninaran, I gladly accept your offer." He continued to speak the language of the Tel'Quessir, however, he made sure to speak it clearly, and enunciate carefully, as it was clear that the elven woman who now led him towards Winterhaven hadn't the opportunity to speak the language of her birth as often as Evaliir himself. "Perhaps on our way, with keen eyes such as our own, we could spot some sign and flush our prey from the underbrush." As he spoke, he scanned the horizon for game that would serve to provide the young woman with a prize equal to that which his clumsy approach had startled.

"May I ask, Lady Ninaran, when you spoke of Aagir, is he a competitor, or does he poach game stalked by yourself, or others?"


OOC: Perception, or Nature, [both are +9] to see if I can spot sign of game nearby as I follow Ninaran. [roll0].

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - East of Winterhaven

The vociferous figure, one of the two men holding longbows turned to look at the sound of Adrie’s voice. They smiled and turned towards her. “Look here Garm, got a couple a travelers.” he said with a joking tone. The man with the shield didn’t turn to look, but continued to close on the bear. “Proper endangered species, mate” he said, ducking in closer and batting away a large claw with his shield. The first hunter who spoke moved closer to Adrie and Gevarn. “Don’t worry Miss, we’re hunters, we’ll make it quick and clean. This bear’s been making a nuisance of itself around Winterhaven. Figure it’d make a good pelt for the Lord, dontcha know.”

He turned back to the bear and loosed another arrow, almost in time with his other bow-wielding friend as the shield-bearing man ducked backwards from another swipe of the bear’s claws. Neither arrow found purchase but scraped along the bear’s hide.

The bear was clearly on the defensive but attacked whenever the man pushed close. Gevarn seemed to be frozen in place by a mix of concern for the bear and desire to avoid getting into a conflict with the hunters.


Evaliir - Somewhere North of Winterhaven

Ninaran nodded to Evaliir, a slight smile crossing her face. “Stranger things have happened.” She responded, restringing her bow and pulling her hood back up. “Though there will be less chance as we draw closer to Winterhaven.” She led Evaliir onwards once more, carefully picking her way.

Evaliir spied no sign of any deer as he followed Ninaran through the forest, save for some tracks which seemed well worn, though there were a few birds flitting through the canopy above and some rabbits hopping within the underbrush. They were easy prey for Ninaran and Evaliir working together.

As the pair stopped to gather one of their kills, Ninaran answered Evaliir’s hanging question. “Aagir and his men were once competitors of mine and I have lost some game to him before. But of late, he has tended to keep to the woods south of Winterhaven.” She sighed and closed her eyes. “I have heard some bad stories about him and his band, but I haven’t seen any truth to them...” She seemed uncertain for a moment, her brow furrowing. “I... We better keep moving.”

It wasn’t long after that a distant bellow could be heard by keen elven ears, followed by shouts and raised voices. “Some fool is hunting a bear...” Ninaran hissed quietly. “I had been hoping to bring you to the path, but we might need to circle around.”

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir noted the trepidation in her voice as she spoke of Aagir and his band, and as such he decided to keep those concerns to himself, due to the discomfort further questions may cause to his guide. However, upon hearing the sounds of a hunt on the wind, he too, became cautious, speaking in a low voice. "I do not discount your familiarity with these woods and their inhabitants. Would we not be remiss if another hunter, fool or not, was unable to return home to his family due to an ill conceived notion to make prey of such a fearsome creature?"

He began picking his way towards the sounds of the conflict, trying to remain on the high ground, to give him a clearer view of the situation once he came upon it.

[Phantom Genius]

Maria frowns as her warnings are not taken seriously. And as expected the supply wagon was a target as well as the guard wagon. Beckoning Firemoon to take care of the kobolds behind the wagon, Maria gently nudges Margo aside and points her wand towards the two kobolds to the far left of the wagon and mutters something that causes a lightning bolt to fly out of her wand and towards said Kobolds.


Firemoon sees the monsters climbing onto the wagon and immediately... freezes. This isn't training. These are monsters! They're going to kill me. They're going to kill all of us. What am I doing here? He looks franticly at Maria. Poor kid is... throwing lightning? <Deep breath> Mark the target. Use the sling. Defend the girl.


Fire at KA1. Mark KA8

[Phantom Genius]

Attack
[roll0]
[roll1]

[Anonomuss]

Evaliir - Somewhere North of Winterhaven

Ninaran stopped in her tracks and turned to look at Evaliir directly. “That ‘fearsome creature’ is a fellow hunter, no different than I.” She responded, her hackles evidently raised. “None of the bears I have come across in this area would attack without being provoked. I would sooner come to the bear’s aid than to those other hunters. There is nothing to be gained from killing a bear than sport.”

She went to continue on her path, but turned as she saw Evaliir moving towards the path, and turned back to accompany him, in silence. As they created a hill within the trees, the East Road, winding in its path was before them, and upon it stood a collection of figures. Two travelers, seeming to be bystanders, stood to one side. Three hunters, two carrying bows and one with a heavy wooden shield were pushing the bear away from them, up into the Northern forests l where Evaliir watched on.

“Have you seen all that you need see?” She asked quietly. “Those...” she gestured to the three harrying the bear. “are some of Aagir’s men.” She shook her head. “They will not thank you for interfering. And they can make all sorts of trouble for us both in Winterhaven if we try to stop them.


Red Wind, Maria and Firemoon- West of Winterhaven

Red Wind managed to grimace through the pain of the creatures attack, his scimitar striking forth and neatly parting its head from its shoulders, leaving him free to appraise the melee once more.

The combat around the carts seemed to stop for a brief moment as an arc of lightning emanated from the wand in Maria’s hand. It cracked and lashed at two of the attacking creatures, burning a line into the torso of one of the sling-wielding creatures, the scaled creature next to it, dodging to one side to avoid the crackling arc. Margo looked at Maria, her shock evident both at her magical ability and the confidence with which she purported to direct the warrior who accompanied her. “Oh, you... You know what you’re about then.” She said quietly. As the noise and light subsided, another guttural bark issued from the southern trees.

Firemoon found himself faced with two creatures that had clambered into the cart but as he released his sling-bullet it ricocheted off a barrel next to the nearest kobold.

Margo recovered from her surprise at the magical abilities of the girl next to her, and reached behind her, pulling out a crossbow and sliding home a bolt. She raised it to her shoulder and fired it at the kobold that had just avoided Maria’s spell.

Morden cried out as he saw his fellow dwarf getting hit by the sticky substance and moved over to help him try and work his way free, tossing a dagger at a kobold as he went. Woll wasn’t idle, tossing a dagger of his own as he tried to work his way free.

Herbert dropped his crossbow clumsily as the kobold jabbed its javelin at him and staggered back, pulling forth a short metal rod from his satchel as he went. “E-Elena!” He called, looking for help, but as he turned his head towards her, he saw her assailed from both sides. “Gond, protect her!” He whispered and traced a sigil with his rod that sparked with arcane energy. Elena’s armor suddenly cracked with the same energy, which burst violently towards one of the Kobolds that had just attacked her.

Seeming undaunted by the Kobolds to either side, or the energy flowing through her armour, Elena turned to the kobold next to the Wagon’s horse and struck at it with her blade. “Helm take all bandits!” She cried aloud, her blade suddenly radiating divine light.


Margo
Draw and load her Crossbow. (Minor and Minor)
Crossbow shot at KA9 - [roll0] v AC. [roll1] damage if it hits.

Morden and Woll
Morden moves to P9 and throws a dagger at KA7. Woll throws a dagger at KB1.
KA7 - [roll2] v AC, [roll3] if it hits.
KB1 - [roll4] v AC, [roll5] if it hits.

Woll save v Immobilized - [roll6]

Herbert
Drops crossbow, draws rod.
Casts spell on Elena and attacks KC1.
[roll7] v Fort, [roll8] thunder damage and pushed to AB7 if it hits.

Elena
Attacks KC2 - [roll9] v AC, [roll10] damage and KC1, KC2 and KA5 marked by her if it hits.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

As he watched the bear being harried by the hunters he turned to his companion, there was compassion in his eyes, sorrow, loss. "These hunters have wounded the bear, with or without our intrusion, however, look, there are half a dozen shafts protruding from the bear's hide. And now they are backing it into a corner, the bear suffers, this is not a clean hunt, not a merciful kill. If the bear eludes them, it's pain could drive it mad, it's fury could destroy families or homesteads with no connection to Aagir or his butchers." He watched the scene begin to play out, "If we do nothing, the bear suffers in it's final moment, denied the grace and honor of a quick, clean kill."

He began to move down the hillside, three arrows held loosely between his fingers, lifting them to the string of his warbow. "I mean no disrespect Lady Ninaran, nor do I mean to create conflict with Aagir and his butchers." Another careful step, and then he affixed his companion with a stern gaze, "I do, however, intend to end the bear's suffering, and whisper a prayer of thanks to her spirit as it departs this plane."

With a smooth practiced motion, he placed an arrow to the string, and as the first was in flight the second was already nocked and ready to fire.


OOC: Moving towards the bear, forgoing Stealth to move my full move of 7, my Minor action to mark the Bear, and if in range on the bear I will use Two Fanged Strike to attempt to end it's suffering. Let me know if rolls are needed.

Two Fanged Strike (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=23661036&postcount=32): 2 Attack Rolls: 24 & 28; Damage: 9 & 16; Hunter's Quarry, 2; If both Attacks hit, additional damage equal to Wisdom bonus, 2. Total Damage: 27 [29 if both attacks hit]

[onlie2005]

Maria decides to finish off the bloodied kobold and then attack one of the kobolds under cover. Using her ability with her wand she accurately bounces her lightning bolt off of the remaining kobold to her right and it weaves around the cover striking one of the kobolds hiding behind to strike them


KB1: [roll0]
KA2: [roll1]




[roll2]
Reroll natural roll of 1 damage(if necessary): [roll3]

[LtPowers]

Adrie is unsure what to do. She hated to see a creature suffering, but sometimes they did have to be put down for the greater good. She was no druid, after all, and bore no pledge to protect wildlife. But something about this still sat poorly with her. "Well do get on with it, then," she says. "This doesn't appear quick and painless to me. What trouble has the bear gotten into anyway? And Gevarn... you say you recognize the beast? Does it stand out to your memory in any way beyond its coloring?"

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - East of Winterhaven

The words had barely left Adrie’s mouth when a pair of arrows flew from the trees to the North and landed with unerring accuracy in the back of the bear’s skull. It let out a strangled whimper and collapsed under its own weight, landing in a heap before the hunters, the hulking form shuddering as it breathed its last. “T...they were seldom apart...They were almost constant companions...Or so I heard...” Gevarn said, quietly, before his voice trailed away as the bear died before them.

“Who the hell was that?” The loud-mouthed hunter asked, seeming annoyed at the interruption. “This was our kill!” He shouted up towards where the arrows came from. He shrugged and sighed, the annoyed demeanor disappearing as quickly as it arose. “No matter, this nuisance has been dealt with.” He said, kicking the bear’s paw. He turned and bowed shallowly towards Adrie. “Apologies for the disturbance Miss, I hope the delay didn’t inconvenience you too much.” He gestured to his companions. “C’mon you louts, least we can do is move this lump off the road.”

The other two hunters grumbled but took hold of the bear’s corpse and began to lift it off to the north side of the road. The lead hunter took hold of part and helped move the body over to the side, but was quick to drop it when it was moved.


Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Evaliir’s arrows flew true and put the bear out of its misery, the beast collapsing with barely a sound that Evaliir’s ears could hear. From down below, one of the hunters shouted up towards him. “This was our kill!” The figure shouted up towards Evaliir. The hunters exchanged some words that Evaliir couldn’t make out with the travelers on the road and then began to pick up the body of the bear and lifted it over to the edge of the road nearest to Evaliir.

“Hello?” A voice came from below, the same hunter but speaking in a lower voice now. “Archer friend? That isn’t you Ninaran, is it? We don’t need to teach you another lesson about minding your own business do we?”


Firemoon, Maria and Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

The combat continued to rage on, seeming to hang in the balance.

One of the Kobolds in the back of the cart grabbed one of the barrels of supplies and tossed it off the back of the cart and began to roll it away, as its companion sprung forward and jabbed its makeshift spear at Firemoon.

Some of the ranged fire began to target the girl in the front of the cart, throwing lightning around. A Javelin glanced off her shoulder, as two of the slingers tossed lit pitch onto her, catching her clothes alight.

Woll managed to dodge one javelin as he freed himself from the material gluing him to the ground, only to take another to his torso. “We’re sitting ducks!” He grumbled as he ducked and dodged with Morden between the carts.

Meanwhile, as Red Wind rushed into the tree line, one of the Kobolds sprang out at him from behind a tree and jabbed at him with its javelin. “Diedie!” It chattered in barely comprehensible Common.

To the front of the wagon, things were faring better. The kobold menacing Herbert attacked him with its spear, only for a brand of divine light to burn itself into its skull, incapacitating it, Elena’s call not going unheeded.

Elena managed to fend off the worst of the shield-bearing kobold’s attacks, though a glancing slash cut through the armor on her legs. “Hold fast! Push them back!” She called.


KA1 - Grabs a barrel of supplies from the back of the cart (standard) and hops off the back, moving to D13
KA2 - Shifts to O17 (Minor), Throws a Javelin at Maria - [roll0] v AC, 4 damage if it hits, then moves to J18. Hit.
KA3 - Dead
KA4 - Attacks Red Wind with its Javelin [roll1] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA5 - Attacks Herbert with its Javelin [roll2] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Hit. Dies to Divine Sanction damage.
KA6 - Moves to T6. Throws a Javelin at Woll [roll3] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Miss.
KA7 - Dead
KA8 - Moves to I11 and attacks Firemoon with its Javelin [roll4] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Hit.
KA9 - Dead
KA10 - Moves to O5 and attacks Woll with a Javelin. [roll5] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Hit.

KB1 - Tosses a special shot at Maria, [roll6] v AC, [roll7] damage and Ongoing 2 Fire Damage (save ends) if it hits. Hit.
KB2 - Tosses a special shot at Maria, [roll8] v AC, [roll9] damage and ongoing 2 Fire damage (save ends) if it hits. Hit.

KC1 - Attacks Elena with a special slash. [roll10] v Reflex, [roll11] damage if it hits and she is immobilized until the end of the Kobolds next turn. If it misses it does half damage and she is slowed instead. Miss, 7 damage and slowed.
KC2 - Attacks Elena with a slash of its short sword [roll12] v AC, [roll13] damage if it hits. Miss.

??? - ???

Maria, Firemoon and Red Wind are up!

[onlie2005]

Seeing the kobolds at the back starting to steal the supplies, Maria turns immediately on them and unleashes another one of her lightning bolts.


A8: [roll0]
A1: [roll1]



[roll2]
Reroll natural 1 roll: [roll3]




[roll4]

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir stepped lightly from around a tree which obscured him from the human's view, he spoke loudly, so that Ninaran, should she choose, could stay concealed. "You speak with Evaliir Tel'Quessir, of House Andaerean, traveled from Myth Dranor. As you may surmise, I am not this Ninaran of whom you speak." He kept his bow poised even as he spoke to the rough garbed human, "I noted a band of butchers, engaged in an ill conceived hunt of one of the beautiful sentinels of these woods, however, to spare your quarry further pain and torment I ended what you began, so that I may sing her soul onto the next plane, and show her the respect deserved such a creature."

He approached the man cautiously, "Now, I have answered your inquiry, honor dictates you present yourself, your name, and the identities of your fellow butchers."


OOC: Not that I'm really trying to talk him down, as much as humiliate him. However, noting the animosity between Ninaran and this 'hunter' I am allowing her to remain in cover, stealth (hopefully better than my 1!) so I get the full brunt of his anger. Also, because I'm not an idiot and this could turn ugly, so I will place my Hunter's Mark on this guy.

[Phantom Genius]

Reacting more slowly than the little lightning bolt, Firemoon sees the two kobolds on his side sizzling, so climbs up next to Maria to provide her cover (Square K-13) and fires his sling at KA2. He will then mark KA2 if KA2 doesn't fall or KA4 if he does.

[Phantom Genius]

[roll0]
[roll1]

Rolls...

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn looked over towards the fallen bear, crestfallen, watching as the hunters left the body there and moved into the trees. “Come on Adrie, let’s get back to town.”. He said and began to continue along the road.


Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

The hunter smiled at Evaliir’s words. “Oh, excuse me...My Lord Tel’Quessir...” He said with faux formality, making an overly flowery bow after sheathing his bow, causing his two comrades to chuckle as they moved up to join him. “My name is Rogir Whittle, I’m a simple hunter from Winterhaven.” He continued as he straightened up, a teasing sarcasm beneath his voice. “Though if you want a butcher’s you’ll need to head to the town itself.” he added, a more serious tone entering his voice.

He gestured to his two companions, first to the one with a shield. “That there’s Garm. And the poor shot over there is Dek. Go on and apologise to this fine Elven gentleman Dek, you made his prey suffer.” Dek scowled as Garm laughed at Rogir’s words. “Go stuff yourself Rog...” Dek said, but shrugged and seemed at least a bit apologetic as he looked over at Evaliir. “Sorry, I din’ mean nuffin’”

Rogir smiled at Evaliir. “There, now that we’re all friends, you want to show us this... singing business?”. He stepped to one side and gestured towards where the bear’s body lay. “Us, poor, dishonorable folk don’t know such fancy ways for celebrating a kill. We just toast the poor bugger next time we’re in the tavern.”

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind completes his attack, sending the spear-wielding scaled creature crashing to the earth, it's neck carved open. He wheels, sword spinning and sprints at the next creature in his sight, south, towards the treeline. He calls to the dwarves, Cover each other, I've got this side as he brings his sword up.

He brings his blade up and to the side, intentionally leaving a hole in his defenses, inviting the kobold to attack. The creature obliges, managing only to score a scrape on Red Wind before the half-orc retaliates with a brutal chop to its shoulder.


[roll=Damage]2d4+4+1d8

Red Wind completes the cut without even slowing down, pivoting and launching himself westwards at the remaining kobold. He holds his falchion one handed, swinging it out in a graceful arc as he uses its momentum to strike at the bomb-wielding kobold.

[roll1]
[roll2]

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

He nodded, curtly, as the men introduced themselves. He was curious where Ninaran had concealed herself, however, he did not allow that curiosity to cause him to scan the tree line, for that would give away that he did, in fact, have a companion. "Master Whittle, you misunderstand me, the butchers stand before me. Perhaps in another score of years, you will have attained some measure of proficiency with your craft, you certainly do not possess the respect for your weapon, your prey and your surroundings that the youngest of the foresters of Myth Dranor possess. So, in all honesty, I can not call you hunter, as it would dishonor the profession."

He walked towards his prey's fallen body, massive, and beautiful, the tale of violence writ large upon it's bloodied hide. He was acutely aware of the men's positioning, as they flanked him on the short journey to the road. However, he gave them his back, trusting his keen eleven senses to alert him to violence should they wish to pursue that, most foolish, course of action.

"I go now to sing a song of lament, to release the den mother's spirit, and ease her passing to the next realm. As hunters, we must be keenly aware that her death fortifies ourselves, and the communities which we serve. Which is why we must never allow ourselves to fall so far as to hunt these creatures of the woods for sport, that," he paused, his voice stern, "would be an indignity I would not allow to transpire."


OOC: Oh yeah, I am baiting them. And I am *very* aware that I'm outnumbered, but really, they're kind of ... %$^&'s!

[Anonomuss]

Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

The men listened to Evaliir, any trace of joviality leaving them as he continued his tirade. As Evaliir turned his back, the sounds of weapons leaving sheaths and belt loops were unmistakeable and unmissable to Evaliir's keen ears. “I've had just about enough of this.” Rogir said, lunging towards Evaliir, his comrades not far behind in swinging their weapons at him.

Evaliir managed to duck beneath Rogir's mace as he swung towards him, but Dek smashed a mace into his back before he could recover. "Should've just walked away, buddy." Dek said.

Garm lagged behind, slower on the uptake as to what was going down.


Initiative
-Rogir: [roll0]
-Dek: [roll1]
-Garm: [roll2]

Rolls from OOC chat:
-Rogir missed with a Dazing Strike (14 v AC)
-Dek hit with a mace. (21 v AC, for 10 damage).

Map is in the Secondary Map tab in the Combat Tracker (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1O5Yc4f1bzcEBKEHtC4v05Ls57sN6GE5d2rvJ9mYZbPQ/edit#gid=710948713).

[Anonomuss]

Firemoon, Maria and Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

Maria's lashing lightning incinerated four more kobolds, as she flicked it about, even as the flames of the firepots flickered about her body. Even as one of the kobolds was burning with the touch of Maria's lightning, Firemoon's sling bullet put it out of its misery.

Red Moon's blade found its way through the torso of the kobold that had challenged him and rushed to engage another, his blade flicking and slashing.

Margo, hurried into the back of the cart and began to root around amongst the supplies.

Meanwhile, Elena fought to drive off the kobolds that were attacking her from either side, though her blade was unable to find purchase. Herbert flicked his rod once more and her armor flashed again, trying to drive the kobolds away. The kobolds nimbly avoided the blast of energy, but it continued to flicker about Elena's armor, providing additional warding energy to her armor.

Morden and Woll nodded to one another before dashed towards the remaining kobolds to the north side of the cart in unison, only for the ground to go beneath Woll and leave him dropped into a pit. Morden heard Woll's cry of alarm and turned, his blow against the kobold going awry.


Margo, moves to H11, opens a barrel and takes out a potion of healing.

Elena attacks KC2 [roll0] v AC, [roll1] damage if it hits.

Herbert casts a spell on Elena, which attacks KC1 [roll2] v Fort, doing [roll3] thunder damage if it hits and pushing the Kobold to AB7.

Woll attempts to move to 06 but falls into a pit trap and takes [roll4] damage and falls prone.

Morden moves to S6 and attacks KA6 - [roll5], dealing [roll6] damage if it hits.

[Anonomuss]

Firemoon, Maria and Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

Another sharp bark came from the southern woods, and the demeanor of the kobolds began to change.

The two kobolds remaining to the north made desperate parting attacks and fled towards the northern depths of the woods.

The two more heavily armed kobolds overwhelmed Elena with a series of slashes, which finally took their toll and she fell, unconscious, dropping her sword and shield. The two kobolds picked up her body and began to run into the woods.

The last kobold to the south darted away from Red Wind's keen blade, attempting to dodge his slashing blade. It raised its sling and tossed another pot of pitch towards the cart, setting it alight, one box of supplies beginning to fo up in flame.



The voice from the woods said "Enough. Retreat!" Again, in broken Draconic.


KA1 - Dead
KA2 - Dead
KA3 - Dead
KA4 - Dead
KA5 - Dead
KA6 - Stabs at Morden with its Javelin. [roll0] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. Then it will shift to U5 as a minor action and leave the map out of column V. Hit.
KA7 - Dead.
KA8 - Dead.
KA9 - Dead.
KA10 - Shifts to O6 (Minor), Tosses a Javelin at Maria [roll1] v AC, 4 damage if it hits. It will then leave the map out of column J. Miss.

KB1 - Dead.
KB2 - Will shift away from Red Wind to L19 (minor). If it survives the Vengeful Guardian opportunity attack this provokes, it will toss a special shot at square I13 and set that square alight [roll2] v AC (To beat AC 10) and if it hits(This can be put out by anyone spending a standard action while adjacent to it and rolling a saving throw (ie roll a d20, 10 or higher and it will go out). If left alight it may spread). KB2 will then move to F22.

KC1 - Attacks Elena with its short sword. [roll3] v AC, [roll4] damage if it hits. Hit, only just due to the +2 from combat advantage (not included) from flanking.
KC2 - Attacks Elena with a special slash. [roll5] v Reflex, [roll6] damage if it hits and she is immobilized until the end of the Kobolds next turn. If it misses it does half damage and she is slowed instead. Hit and drops Elena unconscious.

KC1 and KC2 both pick up Elena and run to AD1-AD3. They leave both their swords behind (Free action to drop).

??? - ???

Marie, Firemoon and Red Wind are up.

[LtPowers]

"I am sorry, Gevarn," Adrie commiserates. "At least its suffering is ended. Speaking of which... where do you suppose that final arrow came from? The hunters were angry they didn't get the killing blow. I should make sure they don't cause more trouble. Vikka, stay hidden, sweetie."

Adrie turns back toward the incipient battle.


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

Maria is getting tired of being used as target practice. And she is upset when Elena is taken away by the kobolds and she is not able to cast a spell to stop them since they are too far away. Already pissed off she becomes even more hostile when one of the kobolds fires a fire pot into the supply wagon needed to help the residents of Winterhaven. Narrowing her eyes at the remaining kobold within her sight, she zonks it with a well placed silver bolt of energy.

Automatically hits for 7 damage.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 22 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

While not unanticipated, the flanking attacks succeeds, the mace blow causing Evaliir to stumble towards the trees, rapidly firing off two shots while trying to disengage from the ensuing melee.


OOC: Move action to shift to P7, Standard Action to use Nimble Strike against Dek. Nimble Strike effect allows a Shift before or after an attack check. I will shift to O6. +9 [Due to Prime Shot] vs AC [roll0]; Damage 1d12+5 [Bow Expertise, No creature adjacent] [roll1]. I will then Action Point to use Sure Shot on Rogir +9 vs AC [roll2], May re-roll and use 2nd result. 3d12+6 [Bow Expertise, no creature adjacent] May reroll each damage die & use 2nd result. [roll3]+6; Hunters Quarry [roll4].

Even with rerolls as posted in OOC, this was a useless round for our hero, Nimble shot giving him a 17 vs AC if that hits Dek for 8 Damage. However the daily fails with a 12 ... ugh!

[Phantom Genius]

Firemoon leaves his waterskin with Maria and races off after Elena. (Double move? Athletics?) He will use the same path as the kobolds to avoid any more pit traps.

Athletics roll if needed:
[roll0]

[Anonomuss]

Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

As Evaliir nimbly ducked out from between his assailants, he gracefully raised his bow, adrenaline lending speed to his already deft hands. It was his greatbow, the elegant carved arc of fine Tel'Quessir craftsmanship too clumsy to be used effectively up close. Even so, Evaliir's careful marksmanship landing a shaft into Dek's shoulder, causing him to cry out in pain. Rogir manged to dodge away from an arrow that Evaliir was sure had found its purchase.

Garm moved in, shield raised to ward off blows and slashed at Evaliir with his long, cutting blade.


Garm
Move to P6.'
Attacks Evaliir with his longsword [roll0] v AC, if it hits [roll1] damage and Evaliir is marked by Garm until the end of his next turn.

Adrie and Gevarn are up


Adrie - East of Winterhaven

As Adrie turned back towards where the hunters had disappeared into the trees, she saw them emerge once more, with a graceful elven figure, speaking animatedly, though she could not hear the words exchanged. As the elven figure moved closer to the body of the bear, the men attacked, drawing weapons, though the elven figure was quick to reply in kind.


Adrie is next up in initiative. Current map is over in the "Secondary Map" tab over in the Combat Tracker (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1O5Yc4f1bzcEBKEHtC4v05Ls57sN6GE5d2rvJ9mYZbPQ/edit#gid=710948713).



Firemoon, Maria and Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

Margo let out a cry of alarm as the cart began to leap with flames, the material crackling and burning and starting to spread. She hurried back up to the front with Maria and uncorked a bottle, moving to feed it to the girl. "You look dreadful, drink this!"

Morden moved to help Woll out of the pit that he was in and Woll reached up for his outstretched hand. Together they gathered themselves at the edge of the pit.

Herbert cried out. "Elena! No!" and rushed after her, flicking his rod once more to repeat his reinforcing spell, trying to make the kobolds drop the Acolyte of Helm's body. Though he managed to knock one of the creatures back, it rushed back in and picked up the woman's unconscious body once more.


Margo moves back to L11 and administers a Potion of Healing to Maria. She can spend a healing surge to regain 10 hit points.

Morden moves to O9 and uses Aid Another to try and help Woll up out of the pit. [roll2]
Woll tries to get out of the pit. [roll3] (v DC 15) plus an additional 2 if Morden rolled higher than a 10.

Herbert moves to AB9 and uses Thundering Armor on Elena, giving her a +1 to AC and attacking KC2 [roll4] v Fort, doing [roll5] thunder and pushing it to AD4 if it hits.

KB2 takes a parting shot at Maria (who has cover) [roll6] v AC, doing [roll7] damage if it hits, it then runs off the map in the bottom of column G.

KC1 and KC2 will either move in and pick up Elena again, if they were forced to drop, and will otherwise make it off the map with all speed. They did drop her, so shifted back up as a minor, picked up with standard and moved 5 squares off the map.

Fire will begin to spread (if any of these are 10 or higher) - H13 [roll8], H12 [roll9], I12 [roll10], J12 [roll11], J13 [roll12]

EDIT: To note, any fire but the original square will only spread to adjacent squares on a 12 or higher, unless it is adjacent to two already lit squares, in which case it will spread on a 10 or higher. If the pitch-lit section is one of the adjacent lit squares it will instead light another on an 8 or higher.

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind leaps up onto the cart and continues his run, charging at the kobolds pulling Elena deeper into the forest. He had raced sandstorms on the open dunes, he could catch these rats.


Minor Action - Shift / hop down from cart.
Move and Standard Action - Charge 8 squares to AC4 and attack the kobold.
[roll0]
[roll1]

[LtPowers]

Motioning for Gevarn to stay back, Adrie moves quickly but deliberately toward the fray. Her ever-present smile has shifted from one of pleasant enjoyment to one of beatific peace and compassion. She is unarmed, except for her walking staff, though her holy symbol of Lliira is prominently displayed and clearly visible.

Vikka, despite Adrie's orders, trails behind about 25 feet -- to what end, it's not clear.

"Gentlemen, hasn't there been enough blood shed today? There is yet time for this day to end in merriment and not sorrow." Her words provide a brief opening to the Elven archer to back away if he chooses.


Move action: Move 5 squares toward Rogir (H11).
Move action: Move 5 squares toward Rogir (M9).
Minor action: Knack for Success: Evaliir can shift up to two squares as a free action.

Vikka moves in concert with Adrie to remain 25 feet away.

[onlie2005]

OOC: I am not sure if this is within the turn of Maria so forgive me.

Maria takes off her cloak and tries to snuff out the fire with it, giving it a few whacks.

[roll0]

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn, emboldened by Adrie’s example, moved up next to her, gripping hold of his mace tightly, an icon of Chauntea dangling about his neck. “I’m sure this elven gentleman will allow you to take your share of this bear’s pelt, just everyone calm down.”


Gevarn
Move up next to Adrie to M8

Rogir and Dek are up next, will post again once we know where Evaliir is shifting to.


Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

As Red Wind rushes up and slashed at the nearest Kobold with his Falchion, it let out a shrieking bark as the blade drew forth blood from between its scaled hide. It turned, drawing a dagger from its belt as it dropped Elena’s armored body. It’s compatriot continued to push its way through the forest, though slowed without its companion’s aid.


KC2
Drop Elena (Free action)
Draw dagger and ready shield. (Move and Minor action)
Attack Red Wind - [roll0] v AC
If it hits - [roll1]
Either way Red Wind is marked by KC2 until the end of its next turn.

KC1
Continues to move away, running, at half speed.

Elena death save - [roll2]

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

As the situation continued to develop, Evaliir chided himself for his naivete, assuming these human butchers would recognize, or respond, to his name, his house, or the authority of Myth Dranor. As such the conflict escalated, bloodily, until the intervention of the two travelers who had witnessed the groups clumsy attempt at stalking their powerful, majestic prey.

While his attackers focused on the duo's calls for peace, Evaliir shifted deeper into the woods, his bow not wavering, two arrows held loosely in right hand, a third on the string which rested at a half draw.

"I still mean to sing the bear's spirit to the next realm, to show it the respect it deserves." He felt the blood slide from the wound in his side, "When the lament is concluded, I'll leave the butchery to you."


OOC: I will shift to M4, deeper into the woods. I'm assuming dark green is difficult terrain, though not sure.

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Rogir scowled at the two travelers, in their priest’s garb, and reached up to pull out the heavy shaft that was embedded in his shoulder. He held up the arrow. “See this? This damned elf was shooting to kill. He’s spilled plenty of my blood. I’m going to get my due...” he said brandishing his mace.

As he moved to rush after Evaliir, a flurry of movement came through the trees, arrows flying towards each of the three hostile humans. One each landed squarely between the feet of Rogir and Garm, while one went through Dek’s thigh, causing him to squeal with pain.

“How many of you are there...” Rogir growled, looking from Evaliir to Adrie to the trees where an unknown assailant awaited. He jabbed a finger towards Evaliir. “You better watch yourself Elf. This is our land. And we’re going to be watching you.”

He span his feet and turned to flee into the woods with his compatriots.


Rogir goes to move to L4, but gets interrupted by a readied action.

Rogir - [roll0] v AC, [roll1]
Dek - [roll2] v AC, [roll3]
Garm - [roll4] v AC, [roll5]

So, instead, Rogir and Dek run away to the South East (and off the map).

Garm hasn’t left, but it isn’t his go yet, but will leave if not opposed.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir didn't seem to react to the salvo of arrows that erupted from the brush, maintaining his aim on the final human butcher, Garm, until he too made his departure. It was only as them crested slow rising hill, and were disappeared from the horizon that he lowered his bow, placing the arrows into his quiver. He took a step forward, plucking the two arrows from the ground, lifting them casually and inspecting their fletchings. "I thank you for your support Lady Ninaran, you have a steady hand. I thank you for not taking their lives."

He turned to the travelers, a woman, graceful, she stood almost a hand taller than Evaliir, and despite the conflict with Master Whittle and his crew her lips were upturned in an honest smile. Oddly enough, he noted about twenty feet behind her, a small cat, of the kind typically seen in cities. Her companion was a wiry man, older, and stood with bent shoulders as though he carried a great burden.

"And to you," he addressed the two who had backtracked from further ahead upon the road, "you have my thanks for ensuring that the conflict between Master Whittle and I did not escalate into need for further violence, bloodshed, or death." He returned the bow to his shoulder, his lips set into a straight line against the pain, "My name is Evaliir, of House Andaerean, traveled from Myth Dranor, known as Evaliir Tel'Quessir to those whom I call friend. I should be honored to count you among them."

[LtPowers]

Adrie smiles at Evaliir. "Bright blessings, Evaliir of The People," she says in Elven before switching back to the common tongue. "And thank you for ending the bear's suffering so quickly. I'm sorry you were injured before we thought to turn back and provide assistance. I underestimated these hunters' thirst for blood." Vikka approaches, weaving through Adrie's legs as she talks; the cat seems comfortable with Evaliir's presence, though not yet ready to greet him.

"Oh, my apologies," Adrie then says. "I am Adrie Everbright; this is Gevarn Hightree, and Vikka here at my feet. I have some healing magic, by Lliira's grace, if you wish it."


Adrie Everbright

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind - West of Winterhaven

As Red Wind rushes up and slashed at the nearest Kobold with his Falchion, it let out a shrieking bark as the blade drew forth blood from between its scaled hide. It turned, drawing a dagger from its belt as it dropped Elena’s armored body. It’s compatriot continued to push its way through the forest, though slowed without its companion’s aid.


KC2
Drop Elena (Free action)
Draw dagger and ready shield. (Move and Minor action)
Attack Red Wind - [roll0] v AC
If it hits - [roll1]
Either way Red Wind is marked by KC2 until the end of its next turn.

KC1
Continues to move away, running, at half speed.

Elena death save - [roll2]


Red Wind follows up his initial slash with a whirling haymaker, using both his hands on the grip of his sword to impart extra force to the blow. As he spins back to face his opponent, he lets out a yell of rage, his blood pumping behind his eyes.

[roll0] attacking KC2
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

Note - Red Wind enters Berserker Fury with the Savage Cut Primal attack, which ends Defender's Aura.

If the blow kills the creature, Red Wind will continue to pursue KC1.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

He shook his head as he spoke to Adrie, "I would not impose on you as much, nor would I ask you to expend your healing magic by healing one as foolish as I." He paused, "I mistook these butchers cruelty for ignorance. I shan't make that mistake in future."

He walked towards the great bulk of the bear's fallen body. Slowly, almost reverently he began to remove the shafts, arrowheads, from it's flesh. As he did so he whispered a prayer for the sacred beast; he then began the song of lament.

It was late afternoon when the lament was complete, "The Denmother's spirit has departed the mortal coil," there was reverence in his voice as he spoke. He looked to those companions who remained, and raised himself stowing his equipment and setting out upon the Eastern Road for Winterhaven.

[onlie2005]

Maria is largely ignoring Margo, not because she is being rude but because she is concerned with the supplies. She begs Margo and Firemoon to help her.

I hope this is not out of turn but take ten to put out fires and she will keep doing so as quickly as possible.

[Phantom Genius]

Maria is largely ignoring Margo, not because she is being rude but because she is concerned with the supplies. She begs Margo and Firemoon to help her.

I hope this is not out of turn but take ten to put out fires and she will keep doing so as quickly as possible.

Firemoon continues chasing the kobolds in hopes of rescuing Elena. Once she is safe, he will race back to the wagon.

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

The forests slowly returned to calm and there were no further signs of movement from either side of the winding East Road.

Gevarn made a half bow as Adrie introduced him, and stood solemnly by as he watched Evaliir singing the bear’s soul into the hereafter. Once Evaliir had paid his respects, Gevarn knelt down next to the creature’s head and grasped the holy symbol about his neck. “May you find your way to Mielikki’s embrace, amidst the rolling forests of her domain.” he paused for a moment, a soft glow between the fingers of the hand holding the symbol of Chauntea.

As he rose, he looked over at Adrie. “I fear that the worst has happened to Jusik, this bear would not have wandered far from him, particularly if it was hunted as it was.” He said gravely, “I must let Sister Linora know once we arrive.”

He then turned his attention to Evaliir. “Ser Evaliir, What business brings you to this part of the world?” He asked, following him as he set his sights on the town beyond the horizon. “You have travelled quite some distance from the forests of Cormanthor.”


Red Wind and Firemoon - West of Winterhaven

The kobold before Red Wind raised its shield to ward off his overhanded blow, but it made little difference, the force of the blow knocking the primitive shield aside, as the force of the Half-Orc’s blow clove the creatures head in twain and buried it in its neck. Red Wind didn’t slow to pull his blade free, rushing onwards, allowing his momentum to draw his blade free. Firemoon arrived just as Red Wind dispatches the creature, and together they rushed towards the last kobold dragging Elena’s body.

Seeing the two warriors bearing down on it, the creature let out a chittering bark and dropped her body, running away at full speed.


KC2 is dead. Red Wind’s attack dropped it to exactly 0.

KC1 drops Elena and runs 14 squares away from Red Wind and Firemoon, adding a final shift as its minor action.
(Kobolds have a racial ability Shifty that allows them to shift as a minor action).

Elena death save - [roll0] - Turns our previewing a post ruins the roll function. - Rolled in OOC thread, failure.


Maria - West of Winterhaven

Maria’s initial attempts to bat out the flames curling about the supplies did little, Margo joining her with a thicker blanket and trying to smother them. “Could one of y’all give us a hand here?” She called as the flames continued to spread.

Morden and Woll hurried over to lend a hand, and between the four sets of hands, the fire was first contained and then extinguished, with the loss of only a third of the carts supplies.

Margo sat heavily against the rim of the carriage, looking at the devastation about them. “I don’t know about you lot, but I think the sooner we get to Winterhaven the better.” Woll grumbled and winced as he stepped off the cart. Morden looked down at Maria. “Yer not half bad, fer a wee one. Though ye look like ye need a healer.” He looked towards the wagon. “Herbert!” He called and glanced about. “Where’s that silly sod gone...”

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

As the wiry, weary looking figure posed the question, Evaliir felt a need to guard his response, for in truth, he had nothing but dream and portent which led him towards Winterhaven. His outward countenance, however, belied his guarded mood, "You blessed the den mother's passing with a prayer to Mielikki, so I am to assume you are a man of faith then?" He paused as they continued along the road, "So then it should come as no surprise that beings of greater spiritual power than ourselves, on occasion, reach out to touch the mortal realm." He considered the dream, the sense of chill foreboding, the light that seemed to radiate from his own body, "Their passing causing ripples in the ephemeral fabric of mortal dreams. I follow in the wake of the Seldarine, the where, or whence, still unknown to me."

He smiled, shaking his head from the grave foreboding that haunted his dreams, "Still, you mentioned a name, was the den mother a companion of this Jusik? Do you fear for him?"

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn looked upon Evaliir as though with new eyes. “Do you mean to say the Gods themselves have given you some purpose in these lands?” He asked, his voice showing a degree of awe. “I am a man of faith, an acolyte of Chauntea in the temple at Winterhaven. She guides us in our lives here, where so many are supported by the bounty of the earth.”

He gestured about them to the forests on either side, though it began to thin as they were reaching closer and closer to the edge of the valley. “Though it is important for us to pay proper homage to the Forest Queen as well, so isolated as we are.”

After a moment of quiet, he frowned and sighed almost to himself. “Jusik Calmen is one of those blessed by Mielikki, a Druid. He has always been a friend and ally of the temple and the town, but he has not been seen for some months. I travelled to Highmoon to try and find him, but he has not been seen there for even longer.

The Denmother, as you called the bear, was a close companion of his and to my knowledge, they were seldom apart in the wild, only separating when he ventured into Winterhaven itself.” As the group created the ridge and looked down into the valley beyond, the town of Winterhaven opens up before them, a walled town, with a number of tilled fields to the south, the East Road flowing from their feet, into the town, and then out the other side.

[LtPowers]

"I sense there is more at work here than any of us realize," Adrie says thoughtfully, smiling at the thought. "Perhaps, Gevarn, your problem and Evaliir's portent are intertwined. And I sense Lliira's hand in guiding me to help each of you."


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

Maria gave Morden a sad smile, as she starts looking for Firemoon. She decides to take a drink of that potion Margo offered and thanked her for it.

We should move that tree aside so we can proceed to Winterhaven.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

As Adrie spoke up, Evaliir's silver-grey eyes shone in the afternoon sun, a look of curiosity flitted across his face. "Lady Everbright, I beg apologies for my ignorance. Nor do I mean any disrespect, however, I was raised among the Tel'Quessir, my life shaped by the Seldarine. My understanding of the younger races and their beliefs ... limited." He paused, "Perhaps you could explain the your Lady Lliira's place within the celestial order?" He smiled, admiring the throaty purr of Vikka as she caught some scent or another.

"I do, however, feel, that I must present myself before the Lord of Winterhaven, as, surely, his butchers may have already informed him of my arrival and our ... disagreement upon the Eastern Road."

[atlastrembles]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Red Wind and Firemoon - West of Winterhaven

The kobold before Red Wind raised its shield to ward off his overhanded blow, but it made little difference, the force of the blow knocking the primitive shield aside, as the force of the Half-Orc’s blow clove the creatures head in twain and buried it in its neck. Red Wind didn’t slow to pull his blade free, rushing onwards, allowing his momentum to draw his blade free. Firemoon arrived just as Red Wind dispatches the creature, and together they rushed towards the last kobold dragging Elena’s body.

Seeing the two warriors bearing down on it, the creature let out a chittering bark and dropped her body, running away at full speed.


KC2 is dead. Red Wind’s attack dropped it to exactly 0.

KC1 drops Elena and runs 14 squares away from Red Wind and Firemoon, adding a final shift as its minor action.
(Kobolds have a racial ability Shifty that allows them to shift as a minor action).

Elena death save - [roll0] - Turns our previewing a post ruins the roll function. - Rolled in OOC thread, failure.


Red Wind masters himself, pushing down his rage as he watches the last kobold free. Enough had died that they would think twice before attacking them again. He had conducted enough raids and ambushes himself to know that this was a massive ****-up on their end. They were safe for the moment.

He flicks his falchion to discard the remains of the previous kobold's head before placing it back in its holster across his back where it hung sideways. He bends down to Elena, their nominal commander and looks her over. He wasn't much of a healer, but he tears a strip of his bedroll and sees if he can staunch some of the bleeding, washing some dirtier looking wounds with his waterskin.

[roll0]

He turns and growls at Firemoon. You, can you aid her?

[LtPowers]

Adrie smiles. "My apologies, Evaliir. I have always lived in Human communities, and I forget that our pantheon is often unfamiliar to the elder races. Lliira is Our Lady of Joy, The Mistress of Revels, and I am, humbly, one of her Joydancers. In truth, it is not a large church, but I daresay no other has more fun at services!"


Adrie Everbright

[Phantom Genius]

He flicks his falchion to discard the remains of the previous kobold's head before placing it back in its holster across his back where it hung sideways. He bends down to Elena, their nominal commander and looks her over. He wasn't much of a healer, but he tears a strip of his bedroll and sees if he can staunch some of the bleeding, washing some dirtier looking wounds with his waterskin.

[roll0]

He turns and growls at Firemoon. You, can you aid her?

I can try...

[roll0]

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn nodded over at Evaliir. “The Lord of Winterhaven should give you audience, if you ask for it. His name is Lord Ernest Padraig and he dispenses justice carefully. I am sure that if those men were to turn to him, he would want to hear your version of events.” He said, as the trio began to make their way down into the valley towards the walled city, their passing causing workers in the fields to stop and stare, before returning to their work.

“Perhaps we should go with you, and present our version of events as well.” Gevarn suggested. “Maybe we should head to the temple and speak with Sister Linora first, it could give you a chance to clean up from your travels and allow us to tend to your wounds?”

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 12 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 7 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir nodded as Lady Everbright spoke, "The patron of the Seldarine, Larethian holds dominion over the arts, music, and poetry. I would be deeply honored to observe the rites of your Lady of Joy, Mistress of Revels, and share with your fellow Joydancers the beauty of the Larethian's songs." He paused a moment as they crested the hill, taking in the city, it's walls and infrastructure closed it off from the surrounding forests, and the natural beauty of the countryside.

As Gevarn began to speak of Lord Padraig, the Lord of Winterhaven, Evaliir turned his attention back to the Chauntean acolyte. "I believe it would be respectful to inform this Sister Linora, that Jusik is still missing, his companion, hounded, hunted, and ultimately laid to rest. Should she still wish to welcome me to the temple, I would appreciate the opportunity to clean and dress my wounds."

[Phantom Genius]

I can try...

[roll0]

Use an action point to save a life? Yes, I think so.

[roll0]

[Anonomuss]

Red Wind and Firemoon - West of Winterhaven

Red Wind and Firemoon hurriedly attempted to bind Elena’s wounds, using strips of cloth as impromptu bindings. The gash at Elena’s torso however, through a buckled line of scales in her armor, bled through the impromptu bindings, turning them a dark red as the blood congealed. Her body’s breathing, ragged at best, began to cause her body to shudder and shake and she began to hack up globs of her blood. After a few, all too brief moments of such ragged breathing, her body shuddered and eventually went still. Her eyes fluttered open and grabbed Red Winds hand, pulling herself up to whisper in his ear “P...lease...keep them safe...” She went limp in the warriors’ arms all life leaving her body.

From the trees behind them, they heard a rustling noise. “E...Elena!” Herberts voice called, turning this way and that, jumping at shadows and the sound of his own movements. “Red Wind?” He added, seemingly not seeing the half-orc kneeling next to the lifeless body.


Alas the DC to stabilize is 15.

And with that, Elena fails her third and final death saving throw.

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind and Firemoon - West of Winterhaven

Red Wind and Firemoon hurriedly attempted to bind Elena’s wounds, using strips of cloth as impromptu bindings. The gash at Elena’s torso however, through a buckled line of scales in her armor, bled through the impromptu bindings, turning them a dark red as the blood congealed. Her body’s breathing, ragged at best, began to cause her body to shudder and shake and she began to hack up globs of her blood. After a few, all too brief moments of such ragged breathing, her body shuddered and eventually went still. Her eyes fluttered open and grabbed Red Winds hand, pulling herself up to whisper in his ear “P...lease...keep them safe...” She went limp in the warriors’ arms all life leaving her body.

From the trees behind them, they heard a rustling noise. “E...Elena!” Herberts voice called, turning this way and that, jumping at shadows and the sound of his own movements. “Red Wind?” He added, seemingly not seeing the half-orc kneeling next to the lifeless body.

The blood runs hot in the berserker's face as the woman breathes her last. He feels a breeze brush his neck and knows that her spirit joins with that of the departed. He mentally whispers a short prayer to Silvanus, asking for swift passage of Elena's spirit through the earth. While doing so, Red Wind lowers Elena to the ground.

He then whirls to face Herbert with a growl. How could you let those rats take her?! Call yourself a soldier! The half orc spits on the ground, away from Elena, and stalks off back to the wagons without another word, leaving their nominal leader behind. He calls over his shoulder to Firemoon, You, we're leaving, unless you want t'stay behind with your daughter.

He calls ahead to Morden and Woll, Alright, pack it up, we leave now!

[onlie2005]

The blood runs hot in the berserker's face as the woman breathes her last. He feels a breeze brush his neck and knows that her spirit joins with that of the departed. He mentally whispers a short prayer to Silvanus, asking for swift passage of Elena's spirit through the earth. While doing so, Red Wind lowers Elena to the ground.

He then whirls to face Herbert with a growl. How could you let those rats take her?! Call yourself a soldier! The half orc spits on the ground, away from Elena, and stalks off back to the wagons without another word, leaving their nominal leader behind. He calls over his shoulder to Firemoon, You, we're leaving, unless you want t'stay behind with your daughter.

He calls ahead to Morden and Woll, Alright, pack it up, we leave now!

Wait we should not leave the wagons. There are supplies here that the town might need. We should try to move the tree first., Maria says as she is saddened by Elena's death. For a little girl she seems to have a brave streak in her and keeps the situation in mind. She decides to try and push and roll part of the tree and move it aside but it is difficult for her.

[Phantom Genius]

Red Wind and Firemoon - West of Winterhaven

Red Wind and Firemoon hurriedly attempted to bind Elena’s wounds, using strips of cloth as impromptu bindings. The gash at Elena’s torso however, through a buckled line of scales in her armor, bled through the impromptu bindings, turning them a dark red as the blood congealed. Her body’s breathing, ragged at best, began to cause her body to shudder and shake and she began to hack up globs of her blood. After a few, all too brief moments of such ragged breathing, her body shuddered and eventually went still. Her eyes fluttered open and grabbed Red Winds hand, pulling herself up to whisper in his ear “P...lease...keep them safe...” She went limp in the warriors’ arms all life leaving her body.


Noooo...this can't be happening. She can't be dead. Firemoon looks around for help, eyes pleading with Red Wind to tell him how to stop this nightmare.


He calls over his shoulder to Firemoon, You, we're leaving, unless you want t'stay behind with your daughter.

Huh? I don't have any children...he says, following dazedly back to the wagon. Slowly catching on, he grumbles, I would have been 11 when she was born.

[atlastrembles]

Wait we should not leave the wagons. There are supplies here that the town might need. We should try to move the tree first., Maria says as she is saddened by Elena's death. For a little girl she seems to have a brave streak in her and keeps the situation in mind. She decides to try and push and roll part of the tree and move it aside but it is difficult for her.

Red Wind ignores the girl, already heading towards the tree to put his shoulder to it, calling for Morden and Woll to help him. He loops a rope around the tree, ties it to the horses in the lead wagon, and heaves, focusing on taking action. They could worry about words when they were safe in town.

[roll0]

[onlie2005]

Maria was used to being ignored. She disliked it but still she did not react or act childish. Her mother once said the best way to handle spite and ignorance of one's abilities was simply to ignore it and move on. What mattered was what was inside, not what others thought of you and your outward appearances. Figuring that she might get in the way and hurt herself, she returned to the supply wagon and sat at the front and waited.

[Phantom Genius]

Firemoon helps with the heavy lifting.

[roll0]

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn smiled over at Evaliir and nodded his head. “She would be delighted to make your acquaintance I’m sure.”

The walled portion of the town loomed before the three travelers and one of the guards standing watch above the open gate nodded down to Gevarn as they made their way in. “Welcome back!” They called, “Sister Linora told me to keep an eye out for you. She’s gone to the outer farms to tend to some of their young ones. She said she would be back by nightfall.” Gevarn gave his thanks, guiding Adrie and Evaliir into the town proper.

Winterhaven was a modest town, but it was bustling, inasmuch as a town of its size could. Gevarn led the travelers by the market just inside the main gate, It held a number of stalls selling various goods, though the visitors seemed to be there to talk rather than buy. He led them through what passed for the main street of the town towards a large stone building.

“Over here” he said, leading them towards a door towards the back of the building. “We have some guest rooms over here, that you’re both welcome to stay in, as long as you need.” He smiled as he took in the familiar building and turned to bow to them both. “Welcome, to the temple of Chauntea and indeed to Winterhaven. Make yourselves comfortable, I’ll put a pot of water on to heat and I’ll bring you some bandages.” He said to Evaliir.


You guys can take a short rest here if you like, as well as bathe / dress wounds as needed.

The restful nature of the Temple, and its hospitality, gives an additional 3 hit points per Healing surge spent while resting in it.


Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - West of Winterhaven

Herbert let out a soft squeak, the colour draining from his face as Red Wind turned and roared at him. “I... I tried...” he said, his voice trailing away as he saw Elena’s bloodied and motionless body, turning and retching, leaning heavily against a tree.

Morden and Woll moved to shift the tree, taking up positions on either side of Maria, before she gave up and returned to the singed and smoking supply cart. The two stout dwarves were making poor progress until Red Wind joined them and the tree was soon shifted to one side, the horses stamping and whinnying impatiently.

Margo lifted the barrel of supplies that had been carried off by the Kobolds back up onto the supply wagon. “You know” she said, as she sat down next to Maria. “It’s funny, the only barrel that’s unharmed is the one they tried to take”. She frowned as she looked down at Maria. “We ought to get you to a healer.” she said as she held the cart ready to leave.

“Where’s Elena? Morden asked, looking around as the two carts were made ready to move off again and Herbert emerged from between the trees, ashen faced as he took up his place on the back once more.


Carts are ready to move on when you guys are. You should be able to take a short rest as you travel.

[onlie2005]

Maria shrugs, also curious as to where Elena was. She looks to Firemoon and Red Wind for answers.

[Phantom Genius]

Maria shrugs, also curious as to where Elena was. She looks to Firemoon and Red Wind for answers.

Firemoon climbs back onto the smoking wagon and looks over at Maria and Margo. "They killed her," he says softly. "I guess Herbert is burying her now." He tries to take up watch again, but is too mournful to see much.

[LtPowers]

Adrie thanks Gevarn and uses the time to wash up and relax from the road.

No healing surges used, but I do recover an encounter power.


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

Maria is shocked that Elena was said. But recent deaths in her family have hardened her a little and so she simply nods sadly.

If only I were better as a wizard. She might still be alive., she chides herself.

Maria will spend as many of her healing surges to heal herself as much as possible if not completely,

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 5 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir nodded quietly as the older human departed to gather the required healing supplies. His mouth set to a tight line, he slowly removed his worked leather from his frame, revealing an under tunic torn and bloodied where the huntsmen's blade had grazed his ribs. Once Gevarn returned, he cleaned and bound his own wounds, without complaint, or concern for modesty, as way the way for his people. "I thank you again Master Gevarn, for your assistance, and your hospitality." He paused, considering the Sister's absence. "I do hope that she does not encounter Master Whittle and his butchers as she attends her duties. It would be most distressing if she were to be inconvenienced by my actions upon the road this aft'noon."


OOC: I can spend multiple surges in a short rest, correct? Otherwise my HP's are 21 of 32 & 6 of 7 surges. Just checking, it's been a while!

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind clambers up to the lead of the first wagon and checks to make sure everyone was settled with a stony glare.

He growls softly at Herbert, softening his harsh words. Come, there's nothing you can do now except live another hour. Use it to make yourself stronger or not, but mourning won't bring her back. He extends a hand and lifts him into the wagon, then clicks the horses forward.

As the horses plod forward, Red Wind keeps a wary eye on the forest, watching for any sign of movement.

Use Healing Surge for +7 HP, bringing me to 30/31 HP.

[Anonomuss]

Adrie and Evaliir - East of Winterhaven

Gevarn nodded his head at Evaliir's comment. "It seems the least I can do, though I hope we can speak with Lord Padraig and put whatever grudge those hunters had with you to rest." He smiled warmly over at Evaliir. "I wouldn't worry too much about Sister Linora. She is a formidable woman and loved by many amongst the people. Mr Whittle and his thuggish friends would be hunted down by Lord Padraig's men if they thought to hurt her, I'm sure. Rest up for now, I'm sure all will be right."

As Adrie and Evaliir rested in the guest rooms of the temple, Gevarn prepared a light meal for them, in the kitchen down the hall from the guest rooms.


You can indeed spend as many healing surges as you want during a short rest. :)

Evaliir has spent 2 healing surges to regain 22 hp (Surge Value of 8, plus bonus of 3 per healing surge).



Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - West of Winterhaven

Herbert gratefully took Red Wind's hand as he helped him back up into the cart, though his face was still drained of colour.

Margo gently placed a hand on Maria's shoulder. "Don't you be thinking like that now, you did well. Far better than most of your age I'd expect." She said quietly, "That lady would have known the risks. She served Helm, I think. Protecting the roads is a good death for one of his faithful."

The pair of carts trundled onwards, with the guards keeping a careful eye on the treeline on either side. While there were occasional signs of movement for a few minutes, as they trundled up to speed, soon the carts left the forests behind as they ascended the mountainous approach to Winterhaven. As the carts crested a hill, suddenly the lands before them opened up, farmland spreading to the right of a walled town that the road ahead led into. The sun was starting to set as the town came into view, lengthening the shadows of the carts impossibly as they approached the town. Woll breathed a sigh of relief. "Well, looks like we made it lads." Woll said. "Most of us at least..." The cart trundled unopposed as it made its way down to the gates of the town.

A guard looked down from atop the walls as the carts rolled up to the gates. "What's your name and business, strangers?" The guard asked.


Red Wind spends 1 healing surge to go to 30 hit points.

Maria spends 4 healing surges to go to 21 hit points.

[LtPowers]

The Joydancer is in high spirits after freshening up, and she has a bright smile on her face. She's looking forward to partaking of the fresh fruits and vegetables the Chaunteans no doubt cultivate, though she does pop outside briefly to check on Vikka. The cat is self-sufficient for the most part but still Adrie can't help herself sometimes.


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

Maria is silent the whole trip. She is brooding and keeps to herself as she rests and heals. Being a 9 year old girl there really was not much for her to do but go along for the ride. When they reach Winterhaven she lets the adults talk.

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind raises his hand in greeting at the guard calling down from the gate, then sweeps his hand out to indicate their battered and somewhat charred wagons.

Irregulars from the Arabel Guard, sent for by Lord Padraig. We lost one of our own on the road, ambushed by kobolds. We've got a writ from the Captain of the Arabel Guard proving our mission. Open the gates, we've got wounded to tend.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 5 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

Evaliir nodded as Gevarn prepared their meals, "Is there, perhaps, a runner, or messenger who may know of another hunter local to the area?" He paused, considering revealing the young elven woman's involvement, "A Lady Ninarin? Of Tel'Quessir parentage if I am not mistaken, she did not wish her presence known to Master Whittle and his compatriots, however, she was witness to the events that transpired this aft."


OOC: I am content to wait for Linora's return, or the audience with Lord Padraig. Unless the Caravan rolls through the area needing healing and we can congregate as a large group that away.

[Phantom Genius]

Red Wind raises his hand in greeting at the guard calling down from the gate, then sweeps his hand out to indicate their battered and somewhat charred wagons.

Irregulars from the Arabel Guard, sent for by Lord Padraig. We lost one of our own on the road, ambushed by kobolds. We've got a writ from the Captain of the Arabel Guard proving our mission. Open the gates, we've got wounded to tend.

Having done that thankless job, Firemoon nods understandingly at the guard.

[Anonomuss]

Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - Winterhaven

The guard listens to Red Winds explanation of their purpose, and looks the battered carts over, before whistling to the other guard on duty and they both disappeared from the parapet for a few moments, before the gate was opened to grant the carts admittance.

“Sorry about the formality, we need to ask questions when it’s getting dark.” the guard who had spoken before said. “We’re glad you could make it and I’m sorry to hear of your loss. I’d say you know as well as any our troubles.” He continued before gesturing towards an internal gate that cordoned off part of the town. “Lord Padraig is in his Manor, though I’m sure he’d understand if you needed rest and recuperation before reporting to him. Wrafton’s Inn is good for food, drink and a bed for the night. If you need any healing, or you’re the praying sort, the Temple’s probably your first call.”


Adrie and Evaliir - Temple of Chauntea - Winterhaven

“There should be.” Gevarn said, a hand running through his thinning hair. “It’s a small town, so most people know one another. Though Ninaran is an odd sort. She is well known in town, but seldom comes into it except to sell her pelts or to drink an odd mug of ale in Wrafton’s. That’s the Inn in town.” He shrugged apologetically. “Was it her that was helping you against those thugs?.” He asked Evaliir curiously.

As Adrie popped out of the temple to check on Vikka, a figure made its way towards the rear entrance of the temple, clad in deep green travelling cloak. She looked over in Adrie’s direction as she drew closer. “What a lovely cat.” The figure said, in a melodious voice, as she crouched down to look, lowering the hood of her cloak and revealing a pair of piercing green eyes and shoulder-length brown hair pulled back into a braid.

[LtPowers]

"Thank you," Adrie replies cheerily. "I've grown quite attached to her, through her own sheer persistence if nothing else. It is getting late; do you need something from the temple?"


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

Maria says nothing as the carts pass the gate. If anything she is too tired and hungry to really do anything else.

Turning to Firemoon she asks, Can we get something to eat first? I'm hungry.

[Anonomuss]

Adrie - Temple of Chauntea - Winterhaven

The woman shook her head and smiled as she straightened up. “Nothing it doesn’t already provide. ” She said with a quiet laugh. “I feel like it is I who should be asking you.” She bowed shallowly. “I am Sister Linora of the Great Mother’s family, at your service. What brings you to our temple?”

[LtPowers]

"Oh!" says Adrie, "I had hoped it might be you, Sister! I'm Adrie Everbright, and I'm a Joydancer. I met Brother Gevarn in Highmoon, and he's brought me here to help you. I'm afraid I'm not a druid, but I'm sure there's something I can do if we all put our minds to it."

Vikka mews and twists around the Chauntean's feet. Probably hoping for some food so she doesn't have to go out hunting tonight.


Adrie Everbright

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - Winterhaven

The guard listens to Red Winds explanation of their purpose, and looks the battered carts over, before whistling to the other guard on duty and they both disappeared from the parapet for a few moments, before the gate was opened to grant the carts admittance.

“Sorry about the formality, we need to ask questions when it’s getting dark.” the guard who had spoken before said. “We’re glad you could make it and I’m sorry to hear of your loss. I’d say you know as well as any our troubles.” He continued before gesturing towards an internal gate that cordoned off part of the town. “Lord Padraig is in his Manor, though I’m sure he’d understand if you needed rest and recuperation before reporting to him. Wrafton’s Inn is good for food, drink and a bed for the night. If you need any healing, or you’re the praying sort, the Temple’s probably your first call.”


Red Wind nods an acknowledgement at the guards' belated welcome and nudges the wagon forwards towards through the gate. He twists in his seat and calls back to Maria, responding to her question. We'll be heading to the Inn first before meeting the Lord, lass, we're all hungry and could use a rest. His Lordship can wait.

Red Wind will leave the wagons to the stablehands when they arrive, slumping into a chair in the common room and unceremoniously order a plate of food and ale, hard liquour if they have it.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 5 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12


“There should be.” Gevarn said, a hand running through his thinning hair. “It’s a small town, so most people know one another. Though Ninaran is an odd sort. She is well known in town, but seldom comes into it except to sell her pelts or to drink an odd mug of ale in Wrafton’s. That’s the Inn in town.” He shrugged apologetically. “Was it her that was helping you against those thugs?.” He asked Evaliir curiously.

Evaliir nodded, "I encountered her over the lee of the East Road, and first thought her perhaps a stalker or bandit. She spoke to me, after some prodding of her rivalry with an Aagir Tann, of whom, she assured me, that Master Whittle is affiliated with. It was at that point we observed Whittle and his butchers taking their savage sport with the Den Mother," a frown crossed his face as he recalled the days events, "unable to witness such shame and humiliation, I intervened, hoping to provide a clean death to the Den Mother, rather than Whittle's butchery. The outcome, of which, you are acquainted with."

He paused a moment, taking a small sip of the spiced wine offered by the Chauntean with the light meal he had brought from the Temple's kitchen. "She did not return to the road as I travelled towards Winterhaven with both lady Adrie and yourself. Perhaps I shall call upon her at the tavern of which you speak, after, of course, I am received by Sister Linora and have fully explained the events of the day."

[Anonomuss]

Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - Wrafton's Inn - Winterhaven

The carts and their contents were taken care of by the stable-hands, accepting some coins from Margo to assure their care, as the weary travellers made their way into Wrafton's Inn. Inside, the common room of the inn was bright and lively, a large roaring fire and more of the townsfolk than the cart-riders had seen on their way into the town. They were gossiping, drinking, sharing stories and tales, playing games of chance and the odd one here and there raised their voices into song. As the travelers made their way in, the din quietened slightly, curious townsfolk turning to look.

A barmaid hurried over to the group, casting an eye over the gathered group. "Food and drink?" She asked, as Red Wind walked by her and slumped into a chair, but she took it as her answer. A short while later, she returned with plates of warm food, hearty fare grown or raised in the town's surrounds, together with jugs of ale and a bottle of harder liquor. She lingered at the table for a moment or two to see if there was anything else that the table wanted. "Will you be wanting rooms for the night?" She asked.

Adrie and Evaliir - Temple of Chauntea - Winterhaven

Outside, Sister Linora smiled down at the cat mewling at her feet. Understanding crossed her face as Adrie explained how she had come to be in the temple. "Well, you are more than welcome, Miss Everbright." She said, continuing to smile over at Adrie, though she seemed somewhat sadder than she had a moment before. "I am pleased Gevarn met you and I hope he has made you welcome." She said, "Though I see he hasn't taken care of your companion..." She gestured over towards the back door of the temple. "Perhaps we should step inside and get out of the cold. I should catch up with Gevarn and let him know what has been happening in his absence."

Gevarn listened intently as Evaliir outlined his encounter with Ninarin in the Eastern Forest. As Evaliir finished speaking, Gevarn paused for a moment. "Indeed, you may be able get her to tell her side of the story as well, particularly if she already has some disagreement with those hunters. She might be able appeal to Lord Padraig as well. The more that can explain the situation, I'm sure the closer to the truth we'll get." He said, although his face seemed to darken as he returned to his thoughts. He looked up as he heard the door being opened once more.

"Sister Linora!" He said, standing up from the table and rushing over to embrace her. "Oh Gevarn. It is good to see you. We have missed you about these parts." She stepped back and bowed shallowly to Evaliir, smiling at Gevarn. "I see you've been busy making friends while you were away." She said, with a teasing undertone to her words. "Allow me to introduce myself, I am Sister Linora of the Great Mother's family. Who do I have the pleasure of addressing?"

[onlie2005]

Maria just tags along, relieved that she is allowed to eat first. After all as a 9 year old girl she is always in need of nourishment. She sits beside her guardian Firemoon and looks around, taking a good look at the other patrons in the room. For a little girl she seems very alert and tries to be a little too much aware of her surroundings.

Maria is trying to spot anything unusual or suspicious among the current patrons in the tavern. If not perhaps anything that might be interesting or of note.

[roll0] Perception
[roll1] Insight



This is also why she is a little late in answering the barmaid, May I have some beef stew and apple cider please?

[LtPowers]

Adrie steps inside behind Sister Linora, while Vikka lingers by the door to see if some table scraps might be forthcoming.


Adrie Everbright

[Phantom Genius]

Maria just tags along, relieved that she is allowed to eat first. After all as a 9 year old girl she is always in need of nourishment. She sits beside her guardian Firemoon and looks around, taking a good look at the other patrons in the room. For a little girl she seems very alert and tries to be a little too much aware of her surroundings.

This is also why she is a little late in answering the barmaid, May I have some beef stew and apple cider please?

"See anything?" Firemoon asks softly.

To the barmaid, "Anything is fine. I don't need the hard liquor. Yes, separate rooms for us, but side-by-side, if you please."

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 5 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

He swept into a bow while addressing Sister Linora, "I am Evaliir of House Andaerean, traveled from Myth Dranor, guided by the Seldarine, through dream and wood, to find the town of Winterhaven." He paused as he stood to his full height, a serious look across his face, "It is through those woods, upon the Eastern Ascent, I met the hunter, Ninarin, she and I witnessed some savagery being perpetrated upon a Den Mother by so-called hunters by Master Whittle and his gang of butchers. To end the ignominious suffering of the Den Mother, I placed two arrows at the base of her skull, a quick kill, a clean death, not the torment being thrust upon her. Whittle and his henchmen set upon me, afeared I had attempted to steal their kill, two of them will likely require healing but will live." He sighed as he recalled the vivid details of the violence upon the East Road, "Master Hightree and Lady Everbright informed me that the Den Mother was companion to a man known to you, Jusik, I believe?"

He bowed once again, a nod of the head, though emotion was clear on his face, shame perhaps? Guilt? "I am sorry to lay this misfortune before you upon our first meeting." Another small nod, "If I can be of any use, please, consider myself in your debt Sister Linora."

[Anonomuss]

Red Wind, Firemoon and Maria - Wrafton's Inn - Winterhaven

The din of the hustle and bustle within Wrafton’s Inn didn’t make it easy for Maria’s eyes to fall upon anyone of interest, particularly distracted as she was with a rumbling tummy.

The barmaid nodded to Firemoon “So a room for yourself and a room for the girl” She thought for a moment. “That’ll be two gold per night, including a morning and evening meal for you both.” She smiles down at Maria, “And I’ll be back with your food and drink shortly.” She hurried over to a door next to the bar counter, seemingly the kitchen.

As Maria’s eyes followed her movement, she caught a fleeting glimpse that sent shivers down her spine. One that evoked a smell of ash and blood. In the far corner she was sure that she had seen the bald head and tell-tale red robes of a Wizard of Thay.

Adrie and Evaliir - Temple of Chauntea - Winterhaven

Sister Linora smiled at Gevarn “[“COLOR="#006400"]Would you get Adrie’s cat some leftover spiced fish in the pantry? The poor thing sounds famished.[/color]. Gevarn nodded his head and hurried over to fetch a small plate of scraps for the cat.

Sister Linora listened intently to Evaliir as he explained what had happened on the road, her face clouding with sadness as he reached the end of his tale. "It sounds like the day has been long for you, Evaliir of Tel’Qussir. So I do not want to bother you too greatly with questions." She said, moving over to take a seat at the table. "If I have not misunderstood, Jusik’s bear companion is dead by your hand because you did not wish to see it tormented by hunters. They took umbrage and attacked you but noone was killed." She looked over and met Evaliir’s gaze, "I am sorry to hear that your journey to the town was marred by such violence. Unfortunately, the town has grown more reliant on the hunters of this town of late, so I am afraid that I don’t think the Lord of the town would take action against them, without compelling evidence. He is a fair man, but a pragmatic one." She sighed softly and reached up to her neck to unclasp her cloak, letting it drape over the back of her chair.

She sat in thought for a moment, her gaze passing between Adrie and Evaliir "I do not believe you owe me any debt, Ser. Even so, I would be grateful if you could explain what dreams or signs have led you to us" She looked over at Adrie. “And grateful to you also if you could tell me what Gevarn has told you of our town."

[atlastrembles]

Red Wind grunts an assent to the barmaid's inquiry into whether they would like a room or not. While he takes long swigs from the bottle of liquor he had been handed, washing it down with the ale and stew, the half-orc watches the room through half-lidded eyes. After the alcohol takes some of the edge off the nerves of the day and the past battle, he turns to Firemoon and Maria and asks

So, you are companions, not parent and child? From where do you come?

[LtPowers]

Adrie's smile leaves her face, and it's unsettling. "I haven't heard much specific, Sister, though enough to be concerned. When I met him, Gevarn had more immediate concerns -- he feared for his life. I hesitate to tell his tale for him, but he fears he was followed to Hightree. It really disturbed him, especially with the disappearance of your druid friend on his mind. Fortunately, we made it here without seeing any further sign of pursuit, but Gevarn was preoccupied the entire time."

She looks to Evaliir. "I wonder about this bear, though. Gevarn said she was a companion of the druid... Jusik, was it? The bear seemed quite distraught to me, even considering her injuries. I didn't make the connection at the time, but I wonder if she was searching for her lost companion."

Vikka accepts the meal happily.


Adrie Everbright

[onlie2005]

As her eyes followed the barmaid, she immediately stiffened when she spotted something. She could not believe it but it scared her half to death. Immediately looking away she whispered desperately to Firemoon, Red wizard. Far corner.

[Zero Prime]

Evaliir Tel'Quessir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1808432)
Level 1 Elven Ranger
HP: 32 of 32 Bloodied: 16 Surges: 5 of 7
AC: 17 FORT: 12 REF: 16 WILL: 12

As Sister Linora inquired as to the nature of his dreams, Evaliir felt cornered, trapped, betrayed by his own words. The tel'Quessir were a private people, their faith, their relationship to the Seldarine. He took a deep breath, "You will excuse my brevity on the matter Sister Linora, to my people, our faith, our relationship with the Seldarine a private, personal thing." He took a deep breath, steadied himself, and carried forward despite his reservations.

"I remember harsh chill winds," he paused, recalling the dream, "a man whom I held in esteem, equal to my birth father, a man who has long since passed from this world. We traveled to a place unknown, 'The dark is almost upon us,' he called to me." He shuddered, as he recalled the cold, the darkness, "a darkness surrounded us, not the absence of light, but a living thing. A malevolent presence, an alien intelligence. I found myself alone, the ghostly presence of Seiveril Miritar lost in the abyss. Dimly at first, I became aware of a light, gray, like the dawn as it first breaks the horizon, then brighter, until one had to close one's eyes to shield them from the brilliance."

Another breath as he continued, "And it was then I realized that this radiance emanated from mine own breast, and I heard Miritar's voice, his eyes, like an after image shone in dazzling clarity. He commanded that we journey onward to Winterhaven, and warned that the greatest darkness came from within."

He closed his eyes, steadied himself from his recollection of the prophetic dreams, reached down and sipped of the spiced wine. "So it was when I encountered the hunter, Ninarin on the Eastern Road, and she told me she hunted the region surrounding the town revealed in mine own dreams that I knew my dream was not a figment, but a prophetic warning from the Seldarine."

[Phantom Genius]

As her eyes followed the barmaid, she immediately stiffened when she spotted something. She could not believe it but it scared her half to death. Immediately looking away she whispered desperately to Firemoon, Red wizard. Far corner.

Thank you miss. It's very tasty. Yes, two rooms is correct.
So, Red Wind, we are not related as I said, but I am trying to protect her...
(To Maria) What? WHAT?!? No...we're in the middle of nowhere! (Angry whisper)
(Back to Red Wind) We need to go upstairs. If that murderous, criminal dung heap in the red robes sees us and follows us, kindly do the town a service and stab him repeatedly?


Firewind pulls his hood up and takes his plate up the stairs toward his room. (He doesn't know which room that is, but wants to get out of sight.) He will make a Stealth check to blend into the crowd, but has no idea what he's doing.

[onlie2005]

Maria is desperate but for a 9 year old she seems calm about it. She is frightened but is not so panicked that she cannot think straight. Assessing the situation she picks up her bowl and very calmly follows her guardian. But she is not certain where to go next.

Maybe we could go to a nearby friendly temple? They would harbor us?, Maria whispers.

[atlastrembles]

[C
(Back to Red Wind) We need to go upstairs. If that murderous, criminal dung heap in the red robes sees us and follows us, kindly do the town a service and stab him repeatedly?

Red Wind's head snaps up at the big armoured lad's urgent tone. What's the problem?

He looks wildly around trying to find the red robes mentioned by his fresh companion and his young charge.

[Phantom Genius]

Maybe we could go to a nearby friendly temple? They would harbor us?, Maria whispers.

"I don't know anything about religion. Which ones are friendly? I've never been in a real fight before today," he admits.



Red Wind's head snaps up at the big armoured lad's urgent tone. What's the problem?

He looks wildly around trying to find the red robes mentioned by his fresh companion and his young charge.

"Red Wizards of Thay. They murder children."

[atlastrembles]

"Red Wizards of Thay. They murder children."

Red Wind almost chokes on his liquor at this claim. He had heard similar ghost stories around the campfires in the Great Desert, but had never paid them much heed. So much lurked out there with fang and blade that such tales paled in comparison to the reality. He has difficulty keeping the incredulity from his voice as he replies.

Really, big man, a frail old man wearing red scares you so? Perhaps your little charge has been listening to a few too many bards' stories?

[onlie2005]

The Red Wizards killed my parents. And they are after me because of a prophecy one their diviners predicted that says that I will destroy their most powerful leader., Maria explains in desperation, Please help us. I do not want to die.

[atlastrembles]

The Red Wizards killed my parents. And they are after me because of a prophecy one their diviners predicted that says that I will destroy their most powerful leader., Maria explains in desperation, Please help us. I do not want to die.

Red Wind raises a skeptical eyebrow, looking at the little girl for the first time, really looking, instead of a dismissive glance. He seems to make up his mind about something and then grunts in agreement. I don't know anything about prophecies, but I'm not about to let someone murder a child, diviner predictions or not. He looks about the room, keeping an eye on the supposed evil Red Wizard.

[roll0]

Turning back to Maria and Firemoon he stretches his arms up, getting them into position to pull out his sword if things get hairy. No need for panic, you'll only draw attention to yourselves.

[onlie2005]

Maria relaxed a bit and beckoned Firemoon to sit down. The man had a point. They were drawing too much attention to themselves right now. She began eating her meal, and simply tried to act like she saw nothing, looking around out of instinct rather than out of curiousity.

We should head up to our rooms immediately after eating and maybe we should share a room Firemoon.

[atlastrembles]

Maria relaxed a bit and beckoned Firemoon to sit down. The man had a point. They were drawing too much attention to themselves right now. She began eating her meal, and simply tried to act like she saw nothing, looking around out of instinct rather than out of curiousity.

We should head up to our rooms immediately after eating and maybe we should share a room Firemoon.

Red Wind nods at the sensible suggestion, eager for a lie-down himself. He'd be taking a bottle with him, though, maybe two.

Red Wind will finish his meal and head upstairs after ordering a couple more bottles of whiskey.

[Phantom Genius]

Firemoon continues up the stairs stealthily and waits to see who follows and when.

[onlie2005]

Maria decides to get the serving wench's attention before following Firemoon.