The kingdom of Vesper sprawls from the castle, which is literally built into the base of the mountain, and spreads out to be the second largest humanoid city in the realm.
Further to the west is a huge mountain range, that runs North to South.
To the east is a large and lush plains filed with a number if humanoid cities, outposts, and farmlands.
To the far east is an ever expanding desert that leads into the sea
To the north is a thick forest, called the darkwoods and beyond that is a unbridled wilderness called The Wilds.
The monarchy of Vesper city shares some decision making power with another entity called the Circle of Wisdom, a collection of representatives who both act as an advisory comity to the kingdom but they also fund expeditions into The Wilds
The Humanoid Lands, have several factions of commerce, mining, farming, and artisans. They build roads, ships, and trade routes to all major cities in the realm. The largest city being Saphire City, the hub of culture and commerce, located nearly center of the plains. All roads lead to Saphire and while Vesper was once the largest city in the realm, Sapphire City is growing both in size and the influence due to the ever growing commerce class.
Over 500 years ago, the Dwarven city Deepforge helped the other humanoids build the stone city of Vesper and ushered in an Era of peace and trade. While the High Elves who live on an invisible Fey Island off the south coast also have peace with the Humanoid lands, there are no trade routes, rather a steady flow of elvish pilgrims migrate as farmers, traders and artisans.
Still, another more wild Elf community lives in the Darkwoods, a large family of Wood Elves who rarely leave the protection and savegry of these mystical woods. The wood elves share the darkwoods with all manner of goblin, orcs, and giants.
The humanoids, of the Kingdom of Vesper, plant trees along the border of their lands and the Darkwoods. They still need to harvest wood, but they have learned a method to harvest wood in shallow cycles, and to replant trees as they go, so as not to disturb the peace with the orcs and goblin clans.
Beyond the darkwood is simply known as The Wilds, a vast wilderness split into five regions and loosely ruled by five dragon sisters claiming to be spawns of the mother dragon. Each Dragon Queen has her own domain and followers and they rarely venture beyond their own domains.
The great desert is said to have inhabitants and ruins but due to its vast distance it's rare that people venture there.
Due to the great logging efforts, there are several small outposts and frontier towns, lining the Darkwoods.
Thalion Windrunner is a solitary Wood Elf, who left the Darkwoods to wander the human world. He finds himself, sleeping under the stars, just outside of a small logging town, far from the Vesper Kingdom but still flying the royal flag. Thalion has yet to muster the courage to enter the town, and is content watching as soldiers, lumberjacks, farmers and all manner of people arrive in horse drawn wagons and leave the same way.
Although the town is quiet at this time of the evening, I'm unable to sleep well being so close to the town... and decide to chat with my pup...
"Another Beautiful night, huh Shadow?" I say as give my pet wolf a soft rub while looking at the stars. "We finally made it away from the Darkwoods. Don't worry boy, we won't be going near the castle, at least not for awhile." I glance at the map I'm holding,... "I think we'll go into town in the morning. I told ya the dragons we heard about are far to the north, we won't be seeing them... you keep your ears open, though, will ya?" I stretch a bit.... "we've got a long day ahead of us, I best get some sleep - you're on first watch"
I extinguish the fire. and wake to the sound of the town coming to life off in the distance.
With a bit of hesitation, I decide going into town to have a feel for the Kingdom of Vesper would be best. After backing my things, Shadowfang and I are off to find a place for a homecooked meal.
A soldier greets you at the outpost gate, "peace tie", is all he says, as he walks up to you and wraps a green ribbon around the hilt of your sword to your belt, locking it in the scabbard but any measure of strength could break the ribbon.
"Welcome to Far Outpost" under his breath he says, "like I care"
You wander around town some, making note of the soldiers who are training and not much else happening in this small outpost. Most of the buildings are canvas tents hanging from large log poles. One building stands tall, made from wood, with a stone foundation. The only permanent structure in town seems to be the tavernhall, complete with a withering sign of a laughing dog and a mug of ale, no words, just two carved images with faded paint.
Since it's early in the morning, there seems to be no patrons, only a boy cleaning the feasthall and a man moving supplies behind the bar.
"Come in... traveler? We are preparing the feasthall, so all the chairs are turned up, come have a seat at the bar. What brings you to our little slice of heaven?"
(I'll assume I perceive the Green Peace Tie to be an easy way for them and me to know that I'm keeping my weapon in the sheath for better safety in the town. And honor that)
(I dismiss the contempt from the guard who does not seem to be hired for his welcome wagon skills, and choose to say nothing, as I move on.)
"Good to see you my young lad" I say with a smile. "Pleasure to be here. I'm in search of a whetstone to purchase or smith to put a fresh edge on my blade. But I do like to start my day with a good meal when I visit a new town. I take it the town is called Far Outpost, what might you call this fine establishment, and can you rustle up some bread and cheese perhaps?"
And I walk to the bar and have a seat. My well behaved wolf stays right by my side, and sits attentively next to me, facing the door.
"Well my name is Portwell and I own this tavernhall."
"You don't look like an enlisted soldier, so I guess you can't ask the Lieutenant to use the military blacksmith."
"I myself have a grinding stone out back, keeps my cleaver sharp when I've got to carve a steer."
"Say, you look like a brave fellow, I'll sharpen your blade in exchange for you making a delivery, call it a job. I've got this care pack, just some loafs of bread and dried beef. See, some hermit lives out in the darkwoods just north of here, can you imagine that, well I guess you could, seeing you're an elf and all, well anyways, see, this druid did the folks in this outpost a favor and the lieutenant has me deliver this goodie basket of stuff that I don't need because it's getting stale or old, and our lieutenant, he's just got such a big heart and he worries about the poor little fellow."
"What do you say, bring these provisions to the hermit in the woods and I'll sharpen your blade, sound like an even trade? Hey, I'll even throw in some fresh jerky, you know, good stuff."
"I don't mind helping at all. Besides, it is good to know people people who make good jerky." I ask him to show me on the map where I'm headed, and mark it. "The dagger and sword, if you please, and a cup of coffee while we talk, my good friend. and we have a deal." I look over my shoulder at the door frequently only to find the noise I hear is the boy cleaning the Tavernhall.
Just now, I realize that I run my mouth when I nervous, and being uncomfortable in cities and around new people I was pretty nervous entering the Tavernhall. I'm starting to feel more comfortable with Portwell.
"I'll just have some coffee then, while you finish packing up the provisions." As I sip my coffee, I ask the following questions:
You mentioned that I 'looked brave' a minute ago. Something you want to share about this little delivery, maybe there is more danger than meets the eye?
This is clearly a lumber town with strong military presence, what else should I know about the town?
Have you met the hermit, and what can you tell me about him besides his name and location?
Just what was this favor the hermit did for the town?
I might just want to meet the lieutenant while I'm passing through.... what is his name?
What's the story behind the sign out front, was it a smiling dog drinking an ale?
Thalion felt a deep connection to the wilds of Twilightwood, the woodlands surrounding his small home village, and small part of the Darkwood in the Kingdom of Vesper. While elven children reveled in elven cities, Thalion found peace among the forest. As the eldest son of generations of warriors, Thalion was expected to be a warrior. Yet, his heart yearned for the wilderness.
From a young age, Thalion showed skill in archery. His father, Elwyn Greenbloom, a master of the bow, honed Thalion's skills. Thalion learned the longbow, perfecting his aim. But elven society stifled him. Politics, lineage, and city life grated against his spirit. He yearned for freedom, wilderness, and creature companionship. If it meant renouncing his family name and lineage, so be it.
On the evening of his 100th birthday, Thalion decided to change his life. Under night, he bid farewell to his family, leaving a note of love and gratitude.
With Shadowfang, his wolf companion, Thalion vanished into Twilightwood. For years, he roamed, honing his ranger skills, bonding with nature. He became "Windrunner," a a helpful soul among forest creatures. Adventure beckons, calling him to take up his bow once more, to protect the wilds, and to uncover secrets yet untold.
"I'll just have some coffee then, while you finish packing up the provisions." As I sip my coffee, I ask the following questions:
Portwell smiles and fetches a ladle. Behind the bar is a large stew pot on the stove, bubbling with a black liquid. He ladles the liquid into a wooden mug. "No charge."
You mentioned that I 'looked brave' a minute ago. Something you want to share about this little delivery, maybe there is more danger than meets the eye?
"Aye. I've been living here in Far Outpost long enough to spot the signs of a grizzled warrior. Take for instance your bow, many a green soldier carries a bow with the string cocked for days maybe months. When he goes to draw, the strength of the string is gone. You on the other hand, have your bow string loose, and I can tell it's made of some kind of monster gut, strung out strips of flesh, dried in the sun, and tight and strong as the monsters who were slain to make them. Plus, your blades are all dull from chopping wood and vines, not from fighting swords, so you have survival skills and you aren't quick to duel. I've got an eye for this sort of thing."
This is clearly a lumber town with strong military presence, what else should I know about the town?
I'm sure you know about the massacre of Big Tree. Maybe 30 years ago, and just a few miles east of here, there was another outpost, a frontier town, with families. The lumber was falling fast, a little too fast. Then the Orc Raiders came and they burned the town to the ground. They also burned the World Tree at the center of town. It's the real reason that all military recruits train all the way out here. They make their rounds, training at each of the outposts, running drills along side the lumber jacks, no one wants another tragedy like before.
Have you met the hermit, and what can you tell me about him besides his name and location? Just what was this favor the hermit did for the town?
Only from afar. He's a little fellow. A small Orc Raiding Party, maybe eight orcs and a chief, came out the Darkwoods to attack our lumbermen. Soldiers sprung into action but the Orcs were too tough and too many. The hermit showed up out of nowhere and commanded weeds and roots from the ground to entangle the orcs. It turned the tide of the battle and afterwards, he healed some of the soldiers. We invited him to stay in town with us, but he refused and returned to the Darkwoods. Can you imagine?
I might just want to meet the lieutenant while I'm passing through.... what is his name?
He's Lieutenant Grimes. Not the friendliest chap, but he has a big heart, don't tell him I said that.
What's the story behind the sign out front, was it a smiling dog drinking an ale?
I used to have an old dog named Clyde and he would live in the feasthall and beg for scraps at the tables. Folks back then used to fill the hall with merriment and song. There were talks that we would expand into the Darkwoods back then. So many more people lives out here on the rim of the kingdom. That was before Big Tree. Clyde was such a happy dog that people used to say he was laughing when he ate his scraps. So I named this place the Laughing Dog, not that anyone comes out this far anymore, mostly I keep the doors open tending to the soldiers and they are only allowed to drink between rotations, so it's empty until the next round of recruits come by and the seasoned recruits take leave.
"Indeed, Indeed. The Laughing Dog, quite appropriate." I say with a nod as I finish my coffee. "Good coffee, by the way, thanks." I say with a smile. "Nice work on the sharpening too, this will come in handy."
"I had not heard more than rumors about the massacre of Big Tree, but yes, my family did hear of the burning of the World Tree. I had not thought about that in many, many years. Terrible, terrible destruction and unnecessary. Perhaps one day, we can see this injustice repaired." I really don't know what he is talking about ... I think to myself, yet it seems important to him and the town, so I might as well be respectful. I'm guessing this whole story is about the falling of a different village 30 years ago to orcs, and those orcs destroyed an important symbolic / holy tree that was in the center of that village. If I were a Druid, I'd certainly care more, yet the extent of my sorrow is the loss of life and the destruction of a rare and unique treasure. Yet, it is one more reason to hate orcs, and I hate orcs.
"I appreciate the compliments, and as you guessed I stay mostly to myself and enjoy the outdoors, yet you are right, there are many things in the wilderness to be aware of and experience goes a long way. As to Clyde, I'm sure you miss him, sounds like he was a good friend to all. As you can see I'm fond to our four-legged friends as well, they make all the difference in these difficult times we live in." I reach down and give Shadowfang a good ear rubbing. "Isn't that right, Shadow?" He lays down on all four legs with his head upright, alert but relaxed.
Background things are in purple: Shadowfang has come to learn that when he hears "Shadow" all is well, and when he hears "Fang" there is trouble afoot and he will soon have the taste of blood in his mouth.
DM question / notes to DM are in green: in the text, above, I noticed: One building stands tall, made from wood, with a stone foundation. am I in that building? if not, I ask him about it.
I take the provisions to be delivered to the hermit, and place them in my backpack. "I'll be off, then, well met Portwell, I will see you again, I'm certain," and give him a smile. "Come Shadow"
My next stop is to have a short visit with Lieutenant Grimes. I intend to start a relationship with him. I will use the act of my delivering the provisions he wants delivered as a reason to build trust... after all, he could have had a couple privates do this. Knowing he is 'not the friendliest' I will leverage my persuasion skill, and go slow. My ultimate goal from this relationship: to one day ask him for a favor. I may not ask for this favor now, it may be when I return from this errand... the timing depends on how 'warm and fuzzy' we get in this initial meeting. I am highly motivated to make this initial meeting go well. The favor I intend to request: he grant me access/permission for the outpost's leatherworker to fashion a leather vest for Shadowfang... partial body armor with detachable saddlebags.
I begin by walking toward what I think is the command center of the garrison, watching the guards, appearing friendly, making it obvious that my green ribbon is in place. Stopping at any/every soldier who makes eye contact and ask: "hello there, I'm looking for Lieutenant Grimes, I have business with him. Can you please direct me?" I hope to see dogs similar to German Shepherds in use at the Garrison, if so it will make my request for the favor from Lieutenant Grimes a little easier. I'm also aware of the initial meeting with the first guard, and that guard's apathy. So I will be friendly, yet not pushy with the soldiers I meet.
Assuming I make it to the Lieutenant, I am respectful of his time, and greet him professionally. "Shadow... down." Instructing the wolf to lay down attentively and non threating at the door. "Greetings, Sir. I believe you are Lieutenant Grimes, a pleasure to meet you." I do not look around, I do not act nervous, and all my indications are that he is the 'big man' in the room. "I will be delivering your provisions from Portwell's Laughing Dog, to the hermit north in the Darkwoods and wanted to introduce myself."
I will stay as long as the pace of the conversation feels good. I use compliments about the garrison and soldiers I have met with "Fine groups of soldiers you have here at your garrison" and "nicely organized outpost" and "fine place for a new recruit to get their training" and the like.
"Before I embark on this delivery, I just wanted to confirm this is all you need conveyed to our friend the hermit?"
"Indeed, Indeed. The Laughing Dog, quite appropriate." I say with a nod as I finish my coffee. "Good coffee, by the way, thanks." I say with a smile. "Nice work on the sharpening too, this will come in handy."
With a nod of gratitude, Portwell smiles and drinks his cup.
"I had not heard more than rumors about the massacre of Big Tree, but yes, my family did hear of the burning of the World Tree. I had not thought about that in many, many years. Terrible, terrible destruction and unnecessary. Perhaps one day, we can see this injustice repaired." I really don't know what he is talking about ... I think to myself, yet it seems important to him and the town, so I might as well be respectful. I'm guessing this whole story is about the falling of a different village 30 years ago to orcs, and those orcs destroyed an important symbolic / holy tree that was in the center of that village. If I were a Druid, I'd certainly care more, yet the extent of my sorrow is the loss of life and the destruction of a rare and unique treasure. Yet, it is one more reason to hate orcs, and I hate orcs.
"I appreciate the compliments, and as you guessed I stay mostly to myself and enjoy the outdoors, yet you are right, there are many things in the wilderness to be aware of and experience goes a long way. As to Clyde, I'm sure you miss him, sounds like he was a good friend to all. As you can see I'm fond to our four-legged friends as well, they make all the difference in these difficult times we live in." I reach down and give Shadowfang a good ear rubbing. "Isn't that right, Shadow?" He lays down on all four legs with his head upright, alert but relaxed.
Portwell listens and grunts in agreement to your sentiment of orcs.
Background things are in purple: Shadowfang has come to learn that when he hears "Shadow" all is well, and when he hears "Fang" there is trouble afoot and he will soon have the taste of blood in his mouth.
DM question / notes to DM are in green: in the text, above, I noticed: One building stands tall, made from wood, with a stone foundation. am I in that building? if not, I ask him about it.
Yes, you can see mostly tents, but also very large tents and temporary housing, surrounded by other ruined foundations, as if this town had once been destroyed but not fully built back up. The tavernhall, that you are currently in, almost certainly has been rebuilt, while the other buildings have been left in ruin.
I take the provisions to be delivered to the hermit, and place them in my backpack. "I'll be off, then, well met Portwell, I will see you again, I'm certain," and give him a smile. "Come Shadow"
You take the wooden basket, make of boiled sticks, woven into a box shape. Inside you find four harden loafs of bread, wrapped in cloth, and several dried strips of meat, also wrapped in cloth. The bouquet of smells are pleasant and induce an appetite
My next stop is to have a short visit with Lieutenant Grimes. I intend to start a relationship with him. I will use the act of my delivering the provisions he wants delivered as a reason to build trust... after all, he could have had a couple privates do this. Knowing he is 'not the friendliest' I will leverage my persuasion skill, and go slow. My ultimate goal from this relationship: to one day ask him for a favor. I may not ask for this favor now, it may be when I return from this errand... the timing depends on how 'warm and fuzzy' we get in this initial meeting. I am highly motivated to make this initial meeting go well. The favor I intend to request: he grant me access/permission for the outpost's leatherworker to fashion a leather vest for Shadowfang... partial body armor with detachable saddlebags.
Roll perception, investigation, survival, one or more of these to find the Lieutenant.
I begin by walking toward what I think is the command center of the garrison, watching the guards, appearing friendly, making it obvious that my green ribbon is in place. Stopping at any/every soldier who makes eye contact and ask: "hello there, I'm looking for Lieutenant Grimes, I have business with him. Can you please direct me?" I hope to see dogs similar to German Shepherds in use at the Garrison, if so it will make my request for the favor from Lieutenant Grimes a little easier. I'm also aware of the initial meeting with the first guard, and that guard's apathy. So I will be friendly, yet not pushy with the soldiers I meet.
You get a couple soldiers simply say, "well met", and point to the tree line. The Command Tent is empty, save a guard who says, "He's out running drills with the new recruits."
Assuming I make it to the Lieutenant, I am respectful of his time, and greet him professionally. "Shadow... down." Instructing the wolf to lay down attentively and non threating at the door. "Greetings, Sir. I believe you are Lieutenant Grimes, a pleasure to meet you." I do not look around, I do not act nervous, and all my indications are that he is the 'big man' in the room. "I will be delivering your provisions from Portwell's Laughing Dog, to the hermit north in the Darkwoods and wanted to introduce myself."
With sufficient help, you make it a mile, north of the outpost, where a team of soldiers are sparing with longswords and shields. Lieutenant Grimes looks up at you as you speak his name. "You don't look like a recruit. But we will take anyone these days."
"Ah, the care pack for our druid friend. Gods be with you and 'friend', if you see orcs, do the smart thing and run."
I will stay as long as the pace of the conversation feels good. I use compliments about the garrison and soldiers I have met with "Fine groups of soldiers you have here at your garrison" and "nicely organized outpost" and "fine place for a new recruit to get their training" and the like.
Persuasion, Deception, straight-charisma, pick one and roll this.
"Before I embark on this delivery, I just wanted to confirm this is all you need conveyed to our friend the hermit?"
"You can ask him to enlist. Our recruits are mostly men of a certain age and skill, but we are lacking in the spellcasters and the war mage variety. Having a druid in our ranks would boost morale. A message I've conveyed, but you know the kind (he winks) ambivalent to politics."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
This is my first roll with PbP....
Lieutenant compliment roll: Persuasion roll: 14 (this is your second roll request, I think I can ignore your first request as I found the Lieutenant)
"You can ask him to enlist. Our recruits are mostly men of a certain age and skill, but we are lacking in the spellcasters and the war mage variety. Having a druid in our ranks would boost morale. A message I've conveyed, but you know the kind (he winks) ambivalent to politics."
I see that this is directed ay my asking the hermit / druid to enlist (I notice that he calls the person a druid.) Not my style to recruit for others especially when I would not enlist. The Lieutenant correctly deduced that I I do not intend on becoming a recruit, as I want the freedom to adventure and choose my own path.(Much like my recent decision to leave my own family instead of being tied down to the farm.) His comment does give me a thought, however... if there were a specific mission that would be of value to the Guard or Kingdom - or - I would be interested in being a mercenary for hire, black ops, specific search and rescue or infiltration missions, that sort of thing. I might be interested if it matches my alignment (CG) ... After all, an elf's gotta eat. I pursue that idea briefly:
"Politics, yes. best to tread lightly there if at all, personally, I don't much get caught up in that sort." with a smile. "I will see if the druid is interested. That gives me a thought, It sounds like I might be of assistance to the garrison. I'm not the one to accept a position as a recruit, yet perhaps my skills might be of value. More of a 'blade for hire,' as it were. I prefer to work alone, or in very small numbers of hand selected peers. I've found assets like this can come in quite handy when the military needs non-traditional means to accomplish discrete objectives." and I pause "Maybe the druid and I together might be of service. If, of course, he and I are both interested." watching for his reaction.
Persuasion roll: 21
"Perhaps it best if I make this delivery, then upon my return, we see if I might be of value to you and your garrison. How does that suit you, Lieutenant?" I pause. "Unless" I pause "Unless you know of a specific task that I might help with now?"
"Politics, yes. best to tread lightly there if at all, personally, I don't much get caught up in that sort." with a smile. "I will see if the druid is interested. That gives me a thought, It sounds like I might be of assistance to the garrison. I'm not the one to accept a position as a recruit, yet perhaps my skills might be of value. More of a 'blade for hire,' as it were. I prefer to work alone, or in very small numbers of hand selected peers. I've found assets like this can come in quite handy when the military needs non-traditional means to accomplish discrete objectives." and I pause "Maybe the druid and I together might be of service. If, of course, he and I are both interested." watching for his reaction.
Persuasion roll: 21
"I like your vibrato, so do this task, and then we shall see."
It takes you a short time to follow the rough map to a secluded clearing, marked with a huge dead tree stump. You look and listen for signs of the Druid (Perception, Investigation) but he remains hidden.
Without warning, a single orc comes crashing through the clearing and menacingly growls at you.
Roll Stealth for Pippin Roll initiative for Thalion and Pippin Orc init 16+1
Stealth for Pippin: 6Initiative for Thalion: 12Initiative for Pippin: 19
(my first combat in PbP)
Assuming I am fighting this orc solo with Shadowfang since I have now seen the Druid yet. I command: "Fang, KILL." If you are ok with my using Shadowfang for combat, then I'd like to explore this, if not and would prefer him to remain a companion pet, I'm fine with that. I have him listed under Extras on my Character Sheet. Personally I have no experience with this, yet would very much like to learn as much about 5e and PbP as I can - my desire here is to learn how to do the things I can imagine in D&DB, PbP, and 5e - through with this experience with you. So, I toss some dice and see what happens. (I assume Shadowfang will 'always' have the same initiative as I do for ease of combat - your call.)
Shadowfang wolf leaps at the orc to attack: 23 bite hit damage: 6 If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Then I choose the appropriate weapon, based on distance. If I have initiative and range, I prefer my Longbow, with Shadowfang as my tank... and move in order to keep range and line of sight in that case.
Thalion moves as needed to get a good shot, attempting to avoid an damage to the halfling, then fires his bow - attack: 19 damage: 9
The Orc takes 9 damage. 4+9=13, the Orc is bloodied, (Bloodied is a term from 4th edition to designate when a character has taken damage 50% or more of their maximum health. In general, you would need a power, like the Inquisitor Rogue or a certain fighter build, to know hitpoints total. But also like Doom, you can use insight and perception to see that the Orc is extremely injured, but not quite dead)
The Orc swings his Greataxe with malice at Thalion, Attack 9+5, Damage 12+3 (crit 9)
Shadowfang wolf leaps at the orc to attack: 23 bite hit damage: 6 If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
The Orc takes 6 damage. The Orc is dead.
Pippin, immediately goes to this stranger's aid and casts cure wounds on him for 7 hitpoints of healing, starting at zero.
The party splits 100 XP (50 XP each),
hide armor greataxe
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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The kingdom of Vesper sprawls from the castle, which is literally built into the base of the mountain, and spreads out to be the second largest humanoid city in the realm.
Further to the west is a huge mountain range, that runs North to South.
To the east is a large and lush plains filed with a number if humanoid cities, outposts, and farmlands.
To the far east is an ever expanding desert that leads into the sea
To the north is a thick forest, called the darkwoods and beyond that is a unbridled wilderness called The Wilds.
The monarchy of Vesper city shares some decision making power with another entity called the Circle of Wisdom, a collection of representatives who both act as an advisory comity to the kingdom but they also fund expeditions into The Wilds
The Humanoid Lands, have several factions of commerce, mining, farming, and artisans. They build roads, ships, and trade routes to all major cities in the realm. The largest city being Saphire City, the hub of culture and commerce, located nearly center of the plains. All roads lead to Saphire and while Vesper was once the largest city in the realm, Sapphire City is growing both in size and the influence due to the ever growing commerce class.
Over 500 years ago, the Dwarven city Deepforge helped the other humanoids build the stone city of Vesper and ushered in an Era of peace and trade. While the High Elves who live on an invisible Fey Island off the south coast also have peace with the Humanoid lands, there are no trade routes, rather a steady flow of elvish pilgrims migrate as farmers, traders and artisans.
Still, another more wild Elf community lives in the Darkwoods, a large family of Wood Elves who rarely leave the protection and savegry of these mystical woods. The wood elves share the darkwoods with all manner of goblin, orcs, and giants.
The humanoids, of the Kingdom of Vesper, plant trees along the border of their lands and the Darkwoods. They still need to harvest wood, but they have learned a method to harvest wood in shallow cycles, and to replant trees as they go, so as not to disturb the peace with the orcs and goblin clans.
Beyond the darkwood is simply known as The Wilds, a vast wilderness split into five regions and loosely ruled by five dragon sisters claiming to be spawns of the mother dragon. Each Dragon Queen has her own domain and followers and they rarely venture beyond their own domains.
The great desert is said to have inhabitants and ruins but due to its vast distance it's rare that people venture there.
Due to the great logging efforts, there are several small outposts and frontier towns, lining the Darkwoods.
Thalion Windrunner is a solitary Wood Elf, who left the Darkwoods to wander the human world. He finds himself, sleeping under the stars, just outside of a small logging town, far from the Vesper Kingdom but still flying the royal flag. Thalion has yet to muster the courage to enter the town, and is content watching as soldiers, lumberjacks, farmers and all manner of people arrive in horse drawn wagons and leave the same way.
Although the town is quiet at this time of the evening, I'm unable to sleep well being so close to the town... and decide to chat with my pup...
"Another Beautiful night, huh Shadow?" I say as give my pet wolf a soft rub while looking at the stars. "We finally made it away from the Darkwoods. Don't worry boy, we won't be going near the castle, at least not for awhile." I glance at the map I'm holding,... "I think we'll go into town in the morning. I told ya the dragons we heard about are far to the north, we won't be seeing them... you keep your ears open, though, will ya?" I stretch a bit.... "we've got a long day ahead of us, I best get some sleep - you're on first watch"
I extinguish the fire. and wake to the sound of the town coming to life off in the distance.
With a bit of hesitation, I decide going into town to have a feel for the Kingdom of Vesper would be best. After backing my things, Shadowfang and I are off to find a place for a homecooked meal.
A soldier greets you at the outpost gate, "peace tie", is all he says, as he walks up to you and wraps a green ribbon around the hilt of your sword to your belt, locking it in the scabbard but any measure of strength could break the ribbon.
"Welcome to Far Outpost" under his breath he says, "like I care"
You wander around town some, making note of the soldiers who are training and not much else happening in this small outpost. Most of the buildings are canvas tents hanging from large log poles. One building stands tall, made from wood, with a stone foundation. The only permanent structure in town seems to be the tavernhall, complete with a withering sign of a laughing dog and a mug of ale, no words, just two carved images with faded paint.
Since it's early in the morning, there seems to be no patrons, only a boy cleaning the feasthall and a man moving supplies behind the bar.
"Come in... traveler? We are preparing the feasthall, so all the chairs are turned up, come have a seat at the bar. What brings you to our little slice of heaven?"
(I'll assume I perceive the Green Peace Tie to be an easy way for them and me to know that I'm keeping my weapon in the sheath for better safety in the town. And honor that)
(I dismiss the contempt from the guard who does not seem to be hired for his welcome wagon skills, and choose to say nothing, as I move on.)
"Good to see you my young lad" I say with a smile. "Pleasure to be here. I'm in search of a whetstone to purchase or smith to put a fresh edge on my blade. But I do like to start my day with a good meal when I visit a new town. I take it the town is called Far Outpost, what might you call this fine establishment, and can you rustle up some bread and cheese perhaps?"
And I walk to the bar and have a seat. My well behaved wolf stays right by my side, and sits attentively next to me, facing the door.
"Well my name is Portwell and I own this tavernhall."
"You don't look like an enlisted soldier, so I guess you can't ask the Lieutenant to use the military blacksmith."
"I myself have a grinding stone out back, keeps my cleaver sharp when I've got to carve a steer."
"Say, you look like a brave fellow, I'll sharpen your blade in exchange for you making a delivery, call it a job. I've got this care pack, just some loafs of bread and dried beef. See, some hermit lives out in the darkwoods just north of here, can you imagine that, well I guess you could, seeing you're an elf and all, well anyways, see, this druid did the folks in this outpost a favor and the lieutenant has me deliver this goodie basket of stuff that I don't need because it's getting stale or old, and our lieutenant, he's just got such a big heart and he worries about the poor little fellow."
"What do you say, bring these provisions to the hermit in the woods and I'll sharpen your blade, sound like an even trade? Hey, I'll even throw in some fresh jerky, you know, good stuff."
"I don't mind helping at all. Besides, it is good to know people people who make good jerky." I ask him to show me on the map where I'm headed, and mark it. "The dagger and sword, if you please, and a cup of coffee while we talk, my good friend. and we have a deal." I look over my shoulder at the door frequently only to find the noise I hear is the boy cleaning the Tavernhall.
Just now, I realize that I run my mouth when I nervous, and being uncomfortable in cities and around new people I was pretty nervous entering the Tavernhall. I'm starting to feel more comfortable with Portwell.
"I'll just have some coffee then, while you finish packing up the provisions." As I sip my coffee, I ask the following questions:
You mentioned that I 'looked brave' a minute ago. Something you want to share about this little delivery, maybe there is more danger than meets the eye?
This is clearly a lumber town with strong military presence, what else should I know about the town?
Have you met the hermit, and what can you tell me about him besides his name and location?
Just what was this favor the hermit did for the town?
I might just want to meet the lieutenant while I'm passing through.... what is his name?
What's the story behind the sign out front, was it a smiling dog drinking an ale?
Thalion Windrunner Backstory
Thalion felt a deep connection to the wilds of Twilightwood, the woodlands surrounding his small home village, and small part of the Darkwood in the Kingdom of Vesper. While elven children reveled in elven cities, Thalion found peace among the forest. As the eldest son of generations of warriors, Thalion was expected to be a warrior. Yet, his heart yearned for the wilderness.
From a young age, Thalion showed skill in archery. His father, Elwyn Greenbloom, a master of the bow, honed Thalion's skills. Thalion learned the longbow, perfecting his aim. But elven society stifled him. Politics, lineage, and city life grated against his spirit. He yearned for freedom, wilderness, and creature companionship. If it meant renouncing his family name and lineage, so be it.
On the evening of his 100th birthday, Thalion decided to change his life. Under night, he bid farewell to his family, leaving a note of love and gratitude.
With Shadowfang, his wolf companion, Thalion vanished into Twilightwood. For years, he roamed, honing his ranger skills, bonding with nature. He became "Windrunner," a a helpful soul among forest creatures. Adventure beckons, calling him to take up his bow once more, to protect the wilds, and to uncover secrets yet untold.
Portwell smiles and fetches a ladle. Behind the bar is a large stew pot on the stove, bubbling with a black liquid. He ladles the liquid into a wooden mug. "No charge."
"Aye. I've been living here in Far Outpost long enough to spot the signs of a grizzled warrior. Take for instance your bow, many a green soldier carries a bow with the string cocked for days maybe months. When he goes to draw, the strength of the string is gone. You on the other hand, have your bow string loose, and I can tell it's made of some kind of monster gut, strung out strips of flesh, dried in the sun, and tight and strong as the monsters who were slain to make them. Plus, your blades are all dull from chopping wood and vines, not from fighting swords, so you have survival skills and you aren't quick to duel. I've got an eye for this sort of thing."
I'm sure you know about the massacre of Big Tree. Maybe 30 years ago, and just a few miles east of here, there was another outpost, a frontier town, with families. The lumber was falling fast, a little too fast. Then the Orc Raiders came and they burned the town to the ground. They also burned the World Tree at the center of town. It's the real reason that all military recruits train all the way out here. They make their rounds, training at each of the outposts, running drills along side the lumber jacks, no one wants another tragedy like before.
Only from afar. He's a little fellow. A small Orc Raiding Party, maybe eight orcs and a chief, came out the Darkwoods to attack our lumbermen. Soldiers sprung into action but the Orcs were too tough and too many. The hermit showed up out of nowhere and commanded weeds and roots from the ground to entangle the orcs. It turned the tide of the battle and afterwards, he healed some of the soldiers. We invited him to stay in town with us, but he refused and returned to the Darkwoods. Can you imagine?
He's Lieutenant Grimes. Not the friendliest chap, but he has a big heart, don't tell him I said that.
I used to have an old dog named Clyde and he would live in the feasthall and beg for scraps at the tables. Folks back then used to fill the hall with merriment and song. There were talks that we would expand into the Darkwoods back then. So many more people lives out here on the rim of the kingdom. That was before Big Tree. Clyde was such a happy dog that people used to say he was laughing when he ate his scraps. So I named this place the Laughing Dog, not that anyone comes out this far anymore, mostly I keep the doors open tending to the soldiers and they are only allowed to drink between rotations, so it's empty until the next round of recruits come by and the seasoned recruits take leave.
"Indeed, Indeed. The Laughing Dog, quite appropriate." I say with a nod as I finish my coffee. "Good coffee, by the way, thanks." I say with a smile. "Nice work on the sharpening too, this will come in handy."
"I had not heard more than rumors about the massacre of Big Tree, but yes, my family did hear of the burning of the World Tree. I had not thought about that in many, many years. Terrible, terrible destruction and unnecessary. Perhaps one day, we can see this injustice repaired." I really don't know what he is talking about ... I think to myself, yet it seems important to him and the town, so I might as well be respectful. I'm guessing this whole story is about the falling of a different village 30 years ago to orcs, and those orcs destroyed an important symbolic / holy tree that was in the center of that village. If I were a Druid, I'd certainly care more, yet the extent of my sorrow is the loss of life and the destruction of a rare and unique treasure. Yet, it is one more reason to hate orcs, and I hate orcs.
"I appreciate the compliments, and as you guessed I stay mostly to myself and enjoy the outdoors, yet you are right, there are many things in the wilderness to be aware of and experience goes a long way. As to Clyde, I'm sure you miss him, sounds like he was a good friend to all. As you can see I'm fond to our four-legged friends as well, they make all the difference in these difficult times we live in." I reach down and give Shadowfang a good ear rubbing. "Isn't that right, Shadow?" He lays down on all four legs with his head upright, alert but relaxed.
Background things are in purple: Shadowfang has come to learn that when he hears "Shadow" all is well, and when he hears "Fang" there is trouble afoot and he will soon have the taste of blood in his mouth.
DM question / notes to DM are in green: in the text, above, I noticed: One building stands tall, made from wood, with a stone foundation. am I in that building? if not, I ask him about it.
I take the provisions to be delivered to the hermit, and place them in my backpack. "I'll be off, then, well met Portwell, I will see you again, I'm certain," and give him a smile. "Come Shadow"
My next stop is to have a short visit with Lieutenant Grimes. I intend to start a relationship with him. I will use the act of my delivering the provisions he wants delivered as a reason to build trust... after all, he could have had a couple privates do this. Knowing he is 'not the friendliest' I will leverage my persuasion skill, and go slow. My ultimate goal from this relationship: to one day ask him for a favor. I may not ask for this favor now, it may be when I return from this errand... the timing depends on how 'warm and fuzzy' we get in this initial meeting. I am highly motivated to make this initial meeting go well. The favor I intend to request: he grant me access/permission for the outpost's leatherworker to fashion a leather vest for Shadowfang... partial body armor with detachable saddlebags.
I begin by walking toward what I think is the command center of the garrison, watching the guards, appearing friendly, making it obvious that my green ribbon is in place. Stopping at any/every soldier who makes eye contact and ask: "hello there, I'm looking for Lieutenant Grimes, I have business with him. Can you please direct me?" I hope to see dogs similar to German Shepherds in use at the Garrison, if so it will make my request for the favor from Lieutenant Grimes a little easier. I'm also aware of the initial meeting with the first guard, and that guard's apathy. So I will be friendly, yet not pushy with the soldiers I meet.
Assuming I make it to the Lieutenant, I am respectful of his time, and greet him professionally. "Shadow... down." Instructing the wolf to lay down attentively and non threating at the door. "Greetings, Sir. I believe you are Lieutenant Grimes, a pleasure to meet you." I do not look around, I do not act nervous, and all my indications are that he is the 'big man' in the room. "I will be delivering your provisions from Portwell's Laughing Dog, to the hermit north in the Darkwoods and wanted to introduce myself."
I will stay as long as the pace of the conversation feels good. I use compliments about the garrison and soldiers I have met with "Fine groups of soldiers you have here at your garrison" and "nicely organized outpost" and "fine place for a new recruit to get their training" and the like.
"Before I embark on this delivery, I just wanted to confirm this is all you need conveyed to our friend the hermit?"
"Indeed, Indeed. The Laughing Dog, quite appropriate." I say with a nod as I finish my coffee. "Good coffee, by the way, thanks." I say with a smile. "Nice work on the sharpening too, this will come in handy."
With a nod of gratitude, Portwell smiles and drinks his cup.
Portwell listens and grunts in agreement to your sentiment of orcs.
Yes, you can see mostly tents, but also very large tents and temporary housing, surrounded by other ruined foundations, as if this town had once been destroyed but not fully built back up. The tavernhall, that you are currently in, almost certainly has been rebuilt, while the other buildings have been left in ruin.
You take the wooden basket, make of boiled sticks, woven into a box shape. Inside you find four harden loafs of bread, wrapped in cloth, and several dried strips of meat, also wrapped in cloth. The bouquet of smells are pleasant and induce an appetite
Roll perception, investigation, survival, one or more of these to find the Lieutenant.
You get a couple soldiers simply say, "well met", and point to the tree line. The Command Tent is empty, save a guard who says, "He's out running drills with the new recruits."
With sufficient help, you make it a mile, north of the outpost, where a team of soldiers are sparing with longswords and shields. Lieutenant Grimes looks up at you as you speak his name. "You don't look like a recruit. But we will take anyone these days."
"Ah, the care pack for our druid friend. Gods be with you and 'friend', if you see orcs, do the smart thing and run."
Persuasion, Deception, straight-charisma, pick one and roll this.
"You can ask him to enlist. Our recruits are mostly men of a certain age and skill, but we are lacking in the spellcasters and the war mage variety. Having a druid in our ranks would boost morale. A message I've conveyed, but you know the kind (he winks) ambivalent to politics."
This is my first roll with PbP....
Lieutenant compliment roll: Persuasion roll: 14 (this is your second roll request, I think I can ignore your first request as I found the Lieutenant)
I see that this is directed ay my asking the hermit / druid to enlist (I notice that he calls the person a druid.) Not my style to recruit for others especially when I would not enlist. The Lieutenant correctly deduced that I I do not intend on becoming a recruit, as I want the freedom to adventure and choose my own path. (Much like my recent decision to leave my own family instead of being tied down to the farm.) His comment does give me a thought, however... if there were a specific mission that would be of value to the Guard or Kingdom - or - I would be interested in being a mercenary for hire, black ops, specific search and rescue or infiltration missions, that sort of thing. I might be interested if it matches my alignment (CG) ... After all, an elf's gotta eat. I pursue that idea briefly:
"Politics, yes. best to tread lightly there if at all, personally, I don't much get caught up in that sort." with a smile. "I will see if the druid is interested. That gives me a thought, It sounds like I might be of assistance to the garrison. I'm not the one to accept a position as a recruit, yet perhaps my skills might be of value. More of a 'blade for hire,' as it were. I prefer to work alone, or in very small numbers of hand selected peers. I've found assets like this can come in quite handy when the military needs non-traditional means to accomplish discrete objectives." and I pause "Maybe the druid and I together might be of service. If, of course, he and I are both interested." watching for his reaction.
Persuasion roll: 21
"Perhaps it best if I make this delivery, then upon my return, we see if I might be of value to you and your garrison. How does that suit you, Lieutenant?" I pause. "Unless" I pause "Unless you know of a specific task that I might help with now?"
Perception roll: 11
"I like your vibrato, so do this task, and then we shall see."
It takes you a short time to follow the rough map to a secluded clearing, marked with a huge dead tree stump. You look and listen for signs of the Druid (Perception, Investigation) but he remains hidden.
Without warning, a single orc comes crashing through the clearing and menacingly growls at you.
Roll Stealth for Pippin
Roll initiative for Thalion and Pippin
Orc init 16+1
Stealth for Pippin: 6 Initiative for Thalion: 12 Initiative for Pippin: 19
(my first combat in PbP)
Assuming I am fighting this orc solo with Shadowfang since I have now seen the Druid yet. I command: "Fang, KILL." If you are ok with my using Shadowfang for combat, then I'd like to explore this, if not and would prefer him to remain a companion pet, I'm fine with that. I have him listed under Extras on my Character Sheet. Personally I have no experience with this, yet would very much like to learn as much about 5e and PbP as I can - my desire here is to learn how to do the things I can imagine in D&DB, PbP, and 5e - through with this experience with you. So, I toss some dice and see what happens. (I assume Shadowfang will 'always' have the same initiative as I do for ease of combat - your call.)
Shadowfang wolf leaps at the orc to attack: 23 bite hit damage: 6 If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Then I choose the appropriate weapon, based on distance. If I have initiative and range, I prefer my Longbow, with Shadowfang as my tank... and move in order to keep range and line of sight in that case.
Longbow attack: 7 hit damage: 8
or Shortsword attack: 17 hit damage: 5 Bonus attack, Duel wield: 21 hit damage: 4
A small halfling leaps out of the forest, as if growing claws and fangs, casts primal savagery on the Orc, Attack 15+5, damage 4 (crit 3)
Round 1
Pippin (init 19), casts cantrip
Thalion (init 12), shoots an arrow that misses
Orc (init 15) takes the dash action
Shadowfang, dodges
The Orc takes 4 damage. Orc (injured)
The feral halfling, attacks again, casts primal savagery on the Orc, Attack 14+5, damage 10 (crit 9)
Round 2
Pippin (init 19), casts cantrip (turn done)
Thalion (init 12) << Your turn
Orc (init 15)
Shadowfang (dodging)
Thalion moves as needed to get a good shot, attempting to avoid an damage to the halfling, then fires his bow - attack: 19 damage: 9
The Orc takes 9 damage. 4+9=13, the Orc is bloodied, (Bloodied is a term from 4th edition to designate when a character has taken damage 50% or more of their maximum health. In general, you would need a power, like the Inquisitor Rogue or a certain fighter build, to know hitpoints total. But also like Doom, you can use insight and perception to see that the Orc is extremely injured, but not quite dead)
The Orc swings his Greataxe with malice at Thalion, Attack 9+5, Damage 12+3 (crit 9)
Thalion takes 15 damage and is unconscious and bleeding out.
Having seen his friend go down, Shadowfang retaliates
The Orc takes 6 damage. The Orc is dead.
Pippin, immediately goes to this stranger's aid and casts cure wounds on him for 7 hitpoints of healing, starting at zero.
The party splits 100 XP (50 XP each),
hide armor
greataxe