(OoC: TT-TT Why does Beyond keep not posting my posts?)
Ryner, initially watched the tree land on and kill Marius, pulls away from the tree. He knew that the man was dead, and he had no reason to harm himself saving a dead man. However, he does tense up upon noticing the new arrival, not drawing his sword, but preparing to if need be.
While not injured, he still didn't trust random acts of good will. Everything had a price, "What do you want blondie?"
(OoC: TT-TT Why does Beyond keep not posting my posts?)
Ryner, initially watched the tree land on and kill Marius, pulls away from the tree. He knew that the man was dead, and he had no reason to harm himself saving a dead man. However, he does tense up upon noticing the new arrival, not drawing his sword, but preparing to if need be.
While not injured, he still didn't trust random acts of good will. Everything had a price, "What do you want blondie?"
'Struggling with the weight of the fallen tree, to say nothing of the heat of the flames, Ander reluctantly stops for a moment, wondering how they might retrieve the corpse without endangering their own lives unnecessarily. Hearing the note of distrust in this other man's voice, the blue-eyed paladin merely smiles understandably and shows his now char and soot covered guantlets to the fellow, saying without judgement but in a voice that makes it clear that he thought it obvious,'
"My name is Ander, friend. And I seek only to assist those I heard trapped in the midst of a burning wood. By the dawn's light and sunset's glow, I swear that I mean you no harm."
[OOC] insight check to detect the distrust in Ryner's voice: 13 - likely good enough since Ryner doesn't seem to be hiding it.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(@ Anders - Yes. Your 20+ roll makes it easy to see who is or isn't injured, though Salazar is in worse condition, having only just recovered from near death, so either a healing spell or another short rest will be required to fully recover Salazar. I would suggest the latter.)
As Anders gaze crosses the area, he would note the bloodied horse corpses that had previously been in the middle of the road, suspended from decay if only by the graces of the cold and snow preserving them, for now. Within the cart, as he likely saw before dismounting, was full of various supplies, very likely sundries, food, and other tools necessary for an extended tour in a singular location though the exact, specific, contents of the supplies are still in question. The trees on fire, including the one continuing to char what little remained of Marius' body 81 suddenly explode in a heat-burst(DC 10 Athletics to resist, or Dexterity to flow-with, or be knocked back, but not damaged)
The fire spreading once more to more of the forest though the fire seems to be leading back towards Neverwinter in the direction the flames are going. The fire itself is of no immediate threat to the group, though they may wish to move away from it. Anders can more or less tell this fire is errattic, if only due to the snow. What would normally already be an inferno of a forest, is being held back by the dampness of the snow itself, so likely it will take hours for the fire to truly get anywhere, if not eventually be snuffed out entirely. And Anders was able to just barely hear Salazars rambled mutterings. And it is quite obvious there is some degree of mistrust from the warlock.
Moving perhaps a mile down the road and resting again will likely be safe enough, from the fire atleast. If Anders looks around one last time, he will notice several goblin corpses littered about the area as well, though stripped of their weapons.
Salazar is not just blown back, but nearly knocked unconscious by the force of the blast, weak as it may have been. Dazed, Salazar worked his way slowly to his feet, and upon seeing the new sight looked as if he might break down and cry. But then, he looks curtly off to the side as if straining to listen to something. Whatever it was failed to lighten his mood, but it appeared to have a steadying effect on the scholar. For after a lengthy moment of staring at the quickly charring remains of the mercenary, a hand absently dug around in his scarf to clasp something beneath it. Something connected to a chain.
He says nothing for a long moment, but by his whole closed eyed stance its clear he prayed silently for something. "... We need to go." All he says before dejectedly walking over to the cart of goods. After checking the Oxen's condition to make sure they could travel, he gets into the driver seat and looks expectantly to Ryner, then over to Ander. ".. W-we're... On our way to deliver goods to... to Phandelin. Y-your prescene... You are welcome join us." He offers without much inflection in his voice. But having said his piece, he only waits long enough for Ryner to decide either to join him, or offer another poignant point before working on getting the beast to move around the slain horse if possible.
And if not, he sighs and gets to work tugging the thing far enough off to the side for their cart to go. Either way, it didn't take a lot of insight to figure out the Scholar had no intention of resting or remaining anywhere near the area until either night started to fell or they reached the town.
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Now recognising that the fire is no longer an immediate threat, Ander bends down to try again to retrieve the fallen man's body, but is surprised when something on or near the corpse explodes, sending a wave of ash and heat into the young knight's tanned face. Robust enough to not be overly troubled by the blast, Ander turns towards the scale and scarf clad man in preperation to deliver some words of solace, when the tall, broad-shouldered paladin notes the man clasping at something on a chain as he looks with something akin to acceptance upon the remains of his fallen friend.
Respectfully giving the men time to mourn their departed companion, the holy warrior nods as the man in thick winters clothing with the white braided hair explains their current undertaking and invites Ander to accompany them. Glad that this one seems to recognise his benevolent intentions, Ander smiles as he helps the man shoulder the dead animal from the road to clear way for the cart. As this comparably tall man finishes speaking, Ander raises one hand into clear view while clasping the amulet of his order that also serves as his cloak clasp with the other, while saying calmly and with clear sincerity,'
"Thank you, friend...? I have no more pressing matters currently than helping to keep these roads clear of bandits and other menaces, and would gladly accompany you both to Phandelin. It would be my pleasure to share the trail ahead with you both."
Then, wiping the sweat from his brow, the heavily armoured figure mounts his steed with a smooth much praticed ease, though the horse itself seems somewhat skittish, whether due solely to the smoke and flames, or because of an unfamiliarity with its rider one could not accurately judge. As he settles into his saddle, Ander casually looks to see what the other man is doing.
[OOC] athletics check: 19 to help move the dead horse from the trail.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Ryner seems less effected by Marius death then he was of the consequential fires that enveloped his body. Eventually he to moves to the cart, but waits to say something before jumping in.
"Hold on." Ryner, looks in the direction that the goblins ran in originally, but points to whatever might still remain of the dead horses they'd uncovered before, "There's a good chance that our employer may have been captured by those things, even if we deliver those supplies, we'd be needing him to tell us what happens after."
"What is that you say - your employer is being held by goblin raiders? Near here? Well, of course we should investigate further. No person should be abandoned to such a fate!
We should be clear of these fires quickly, but in which direction? I'm afraid that I'm no tracker or woodsman."
The helmeted Ander nods at Ryner indicating that the holy knight is more than willing to assist. As needed, the not-overly outdoors savvy paladin will help Ryner look around the area for signs or indications of which way the goblins went.
[OOC] Anders is attempting to grant Ryner advantage on his survival check with the paladin's help action.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Salazar is silent, and at even a glance clearly conflicted on the news. Although he keeps looking back and forth between the road, fire, and surrounding forest, his attention lingers the longest on the road. "... I-I can't..."He finally admits, clutching at his wounds. "I-If those goblins really d-did kidnap them, it... Y-you saw them, Ryner. We hardly s-survived five of them! F-five! A-and those t-two were better equipped then us... m-more experienced. We... We don't stand a chance."He admits, then narrows his eyes sternly at Ryner.
"And wh-whatever foul magic you em-employed isn't stopping. E-even if we managed to g-get them out sooner, o-our one direct escape is b-bound to be blocked off. And then what?!"Salazar shakes his head, then turns determinedly back to the road. "No. I'm barely in shape to k-keep these oxen going. I... I just can't. If y-you two want to go hunting, then... by all means. I'll... *sighs*...I just can't." His mind thus made up, Salazar gives Ryner one last look to see if he'll join or otherwise before mustering the resolve to lead them on to the trail back to Phandalin.
(I am going to be quite busy until next Sunday, so response will either be slow or non-existent until then.)
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Salazar is silent, and at even a glance clearly conflicted on the news. Although he keeps looking back and forth between the road, fire, and surrounding forest, his attention lingers the longest on the road. "... I-I can't..."He finally admits, clutching at his wounds. "I-If those goblins really d-did kidnap them, it... Y-you saw them, Ryner. We hardly s-survived five of them! F-five! A-and those t-two were better equipped then us... m-more experienced. We... We don't stand a chance."He admits, then narrows his eyes sternly at Ryner.
"And wh-whatever foul magic you em-employed isn't stopping. E-even if we managed to g-get them out sooner, o-our one direct escape is b-bound to be blocked off. And then what?!"Salazar shakes his head, then turns determinedly back to the road. "No. I'm barely in shape to k-keep these oxen going. I... I just can't. If y-you two want to go hunting, then... by all means. I'll... *sighs*...I just can't." His mind thus made up, Salazar gives Ryner one last look to see if he'll join or otherwise before mustering the resolve to lead them on to the trail back to Phandalin.
(I am going to be quite busy until next Sunday, so response will either be slow or non-existent until then.)
'Ander holds up a hand in confusion, though he offers Salazar a sympathetic and unjudgemental nod, saying,'
"Hold a second, Salazar. Did Ryner not just say that your friend, or employer at least, has been captured by goblins? Is possibly right now being tortured or prepared for sacrifice? Surely you would not willingly abandon him to such a grissly fate?
While I understand that you are hurt, please listen to me. As a champion of Lathander, I am blessed by the Morning Lord with the ability to heal those in need. Though we have just met, I beseech you to allow me to assist you with your wounds.
I saw the amulet that you wear... and sense that you are not a cruel, callous or evil man, so I would offer a compromise that should allow us all to hopefully live in good conscience with our actions. What if, after granting you Lathander's healing light, we first see if we can even find where these goblins have gone? If we can, then we follow them to see if the situation might be one that we can handle? If either we can't find them, or don't think that we can handle whatever we do find, then we can justifiably go to this Phandalin for additional aid... despite the time that doing so would take.
How does this proposal strike you?"
[OOC] Ander is genuinely sympathetic to Salazar's condition and feelings, but certainly doesn't like the idea of abandoning an innocent to death by goblins, so he will attempt persuasion to sway the clearly hurt and frightened Salazar: 18
*edit - insight check to support his hunch about Salazar not really wanting to abandon his employer: 13
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Poorly."Salazar immediately responds, glaring at the paladin for a moment or two before looking back to the road. Neither words or look had any real potency however, as the cleric clearly remained conflicted over the subject. As it goes on, Ander at least gets the sense that Salazar indeed did not wish to abandon his employer... but less so out of the goodness of his heart. Rather, he kept looking over his shoulder or tilting his head as if listening to something, then getting this really pensive look as if weighing the matter. A look Ander might find familiar from interacting or observing followers and holy men of the more cerebral oriented gods and goddesses of the realm.
"... This is why I dislike you servants of the Morninglord. Whether you intend to or not, you manipulate people into getting themselves killed on a whim of goodness."Salazar states bluntly, the stuttering gone as he stares back at Ander. He then sighs and adjusts the reigns in hand. "Unless Ryner here can snuff out those f-flames here and now, I will proceed forward a ways. And if Tymora wills it, I might f-find a river or large enough break in the trees to be considered keep the oxen safe from any spreading flames. Afterwards... a-af-after... *huffs* After they are secure, I am willing to double back to look on foot -- But not a moment before."He states firmly. "If you both want to go ahead still, mark your course for me to follow." He looks about to the fire. "Assuming it isn't blocked by flames... keep hold of those blessings of yours, Sir Ander's. For if we do find Mister Gundrun and Sir Sildar, they will need it more than I, I suspect."
Salazar only lingers around long enough for brief response before attempting to forward on the road ahead with or without the others. And true to his word, he keeps an eye out for any potential safe zone close at hand, but far enough from the blaze.
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
"Poorly."Salazar immediately responds, glaring at the paladin for a moment or two before looking back to the road. Neither words or look had any real potency however, as the cleric clearly remained conflicted over the subject. As it goes on, Ander at least gets the sense that Salazar indeed did not wish to abandon his employer... but less so out of the goodness of his heart. Rather, he kept looking over his shoulder or tilting his head as if listening to something, then getting this really pensive look as if weighing the matter. A look Ander might find familiar from interacting or observing followers and holy men of the more cerebral oriented gods and goddesses of the realm.
"... This is why I dislike you servants of the Morninglord. Whether you intend to or not, you manipulate people into getting themselves killed on a whim of goodness."Salazar states bluntly, the stuttering gone as he stares back at Ander. He then sighs and adjusts the reigns in hand. "Unless Ryner here can snuff out those f-flames here and now, I will proceed forward a ways. And if Tymora wills it, I might f-find a river or large enough break in the trees to be considered keep the oxen safe from any spreading flames. Afterwards... a-af-after... *huffs* After they are secure, I am willing to double back to look on foot -- But not a moment before."He states firmly. "If you both want to go ahead still, mark your course for me to follow." He looks about to the fire. "Assuming it isn't blocked by flames... keep hold of those blessings of yours, Sir Ander's. For if we do find Mister Gundrun and Sir Sildar, they will need it more than I, I suspect."
Salazar only lingers around long enough for brief response before attempting to forward on the road ahead with or without the others. And true to his word, he keeps an eye out for any potential safe zone close at hand, but far enough from the blaze.
Ander nods acceptance of the white-haired man's refusal of healing, puzzled but less concerned now that he recognises the man's symbol as belonging to one of Tymora's faithful. No doubt, the Tymoran is familiar enough with divine healing arts to judge what is in his own best interests, Ander thinks to himself. The paladin is pleasantly surprised that Salazar seems nothing like the reckless adventure obsessed Tymoran priestess that the paladin had once encountered in Waterdeep. Neither did Salazar's view of his own risk-taking bother the holy knight - Lathander guided the young warrior's hammer and destiny. To Ander, goodness was no whim, but a calling.
Regardless, these two had obviously been through a harrowing ordeal, and Ander had no wish to cause them further discomfort. The one who required rescuing was their friend or acquaintance, not his. Should they choose the more cautious route to town to acquire more aid, he would not gainsay it, though bother him it might.
"As you wish, friend Salazar, though it pains me to hear you speak so of Lathander's faithful. I merely wished to clearly point out the choices before us and possible consequences, as you both seem understandably disconcerted by your recent ordeals. I have no wish to "manipulate" you and the Order of the Aster does not dabble in whimsy, I assure you."
[OOC] Unless Ryner points out the direction the goblins went and wants to follow now, Ander will help Salazar find a safe camp for the party and the man's oxen.
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D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(since no one is choosing a course of action, I will :P)
After a while of debate near the slowly growing fire, the group eventually settles on taking another rest, in order to get Salazar back to 100%. 50
It takes a few minutes, but after crossing the tiny stream a distance away, and down the side of the inclined ravine a spot that seemed safe enough to rest and hidden enough in the trees and far enough away from the fire to be safe. During the rest no goblins come seeking, and whoever was on watch had a peaceful time of it. There were no usual forest noises, most of the animals being scared by the fire, most likely. Over the next few hours or so, Salazar is able to recover his spell slots and health as much as possible.
In the distance the fire seems to have disappeared, though the sky is filled with dark smoke. When and if the group decides to follow the goblins direction, the entire area that had once been a forest, was now a mixture of wet mud, and charred trees. The majority of the forest seemed to have been annihilated by the ever growing fire, but eventually, running out of fuel, the fire died out at some point during the rest. The tree's in the ravine were untouched, being just far enough away to avoid the flames. The rest of the forest, in the direction the goblin went, was charred, black, ashen husks.
Having accompanied both Salazar and Ryner well beyond any threat of the guttering fires to find somewhere safe to park the cart and tether the oxen and his own mount, Ander helps set up a brief camp and offers to keep watch, respectfully not bringing up the ordeal the men had just survived or their fallen comrade. Having prepared a simple meal of cold preserved meats, hard trail bread and uncooked corn, the paladin then nods to both men as he moves to a climb a nine foot tall boulder nearby, saying only,'
"Rest, friends. I am fresh, having exerted myself little prior to meeting you this day. I will keep watch and when you are ready, we will take what actions you see fit regarding your missing employer."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(Salazar has yet to fully reveal the amulet, just to be clear. He grabbed it while it was still obscured by his scarf. Though I see where the point of confusion is, and will make for an "interesting" reveal further along the lines)
(Salazar also didn't have any spellslots expended(yet). If only for the sake of brevity however he recovered his hp though, then nevermind this short rest dice roll: 5)
It is only for a few seconds, but Salazar looked regretful for his words. Then the look is gone, replaced by one of mild exhaustion again. "That was unfair of me. B-but I do hope you take some of it to heart. I have read and heard far too many a-accounts back at home of a few passionate words triumphing reason. All too often at the cost of far too much." Is Salazar final comment before the group find their rest.
Having expending nothing in the way of strength to power miracles, an hour alone is enough for the Scholar to bandage and clean up his wounds. But as the distant smoke and fire had continued to rage against all odds, the man gladly takes it easy after tending to the oxen and cart. Whatever ease soon turned back to pensive watch, if albeit halfheartedly due to Ander taking point.
"... Mm... Mayhaps in the future, Mister Ryner, we can... w-well, not use any more fire magic? At least, not in any places where one of the m-more flammable material? I-I know you probably didn't meant f-for things to escalate the way they did, but... you know... Th-though on the well off side, ch-chances are if they w-were any traps or other ambushers waiting along the way, th-that fire certainly sought t-to them too! " He smiles a toothy but strained smile. Upon receiving an answer and the group eventually moving on to the goblin path, Salazar makes one final check to make sure the Oxen wouldn't run off while they were away. After he follows in the wake of the two, if albeit with growing concern over the whole ordeal.
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Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Ryner pulls on his hood, but gives a nod of acknowledgment. Having already rested up, he doesn't do much, but sit in meditation. He focuses his mind towards his patron and remembering the aspects of the fight so he can improve himself.
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(OoC: TT-TT Why does Beyond keep not posting my posts?)
Ryner, initially watched the tree land on and kill Marius, pulls away from the tree. He knew that the man was dead, and he had no reason to harm himself saving a dead man. However, he does tense up upon noticing the new arrival, not drawing his sword, but preparing to if need be.
While not injured, he still didn't trust random acts of good will. Everything had a price, "What do you want blondie?"
'Struggling with the weight of the fallen tree, to say nothing of the heat of the flames, Ander reluctantly stops for a moment, wondering how they might retrieve the corpse without endangering their own lives unnecessarily. Hearing the note of distrust in this other man's voice, the blue-eyed paladin merely smiles understandably and shows his now char and soot covered guantlets to the fellow, saying without judgement but in a voice that makes it clear that he thought it obvious,'
"My name is Ander, friend. And I seek only to assist those I heard trapped in the midst of a burning wood. By the dawn's light and sunset's glow, I swear that I mean you no harm."
[OOC] insight check to detect the distrust in Ryner's voice: 13 - likely good enough since Ryner doesn't seem to be hiding it.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
(@ Anders - Yes. Your 20+ roll makes it easy to see who is or isn't injured, though Salazar is in worse condition, having only just recovered from near death, so either a healing spell or another short rest will be required to fully recover Salazar. I would suggest the latter.)
As Anders gaze crosses the area, he would note the bloodied horse corpses that had previously been in the middle of the road, suspended from decay if only by the graces of the cold and snow preserving them, for now. Within the cart, as he likely saw before dismounting, was full of various supplies, very likely sundries, food, and other tools necessary for an extended tour in a singular location though the exact, specific, contents of the supplies are still in question. The trees on fire, including the one continuing to char what little remained of Marius' body 81 suddenly explode in a heat-burst(DC 10 Athletics to resist, or Dexterity to flow-with, or be knocked back, but not damaged)
The fire spreading once more to more of the forest though the fire seems to be leading back towards Neverwinter in the direction the flames are going. The fire itself is of no immediate threat to the group, though they may wish to move away from it. Anders can more or less tell this fire is errattic, if only due to the snow. What would normally already be an inferno of a forest, is being held back by the dampness of the snow itself, so likely it will take hours for the fire to truly get anywhere, if not eventually be snuffed out entirely. And Anders was able to just barely hear Salazars rambled mutterings. And it is quite obvious there is some degree of mistrust from the warlock.
Moving perhaps a mile down the road and resting again will likely be safe enough, from the fire atleast. If Anders looks around one last time, he will notice several goblin corpses littered about the area as well, though stripped of their weapons.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(Opting not to make the roll)
Salazar is not just blown back, but nearly knocked unconscious by the force of the blast, weak as it may have been. Dazed, Salazar worked his way slowly to his feet, and upon seeing the new sight looked as if he might break down and cry. But then, he looks curtly off to the side as if straining to listen to something. Whatever it was failed to lighten his mood, but it appeared to have a steadying effect on the scholar. For after a lengthy moment of staring at the quickly charring remains of the mercenary, a hand absently dug around in his scarf to clasp something beneath it. Something connected to a chain.
He says nothing for a long moment, but by his whole closed eyed stance its clear he prayed silently for something. "... We need to go." All he says before dejectedly walking over to the cart of goods. After checking the Oxen's condition to make sure they could travel, he gets into the driver seat and looks expectantly to Ryner, then over to Ander. ".. W-we're... On our way to deliver goods to... to Phandelin. Y-your prescene... You are welcome join us." He offers without much inflection in his voice. But having said his piece, he only waits long enough for Ryner to decide either to join him, or offer another poignant point before working on getting the beast to move around the slain horse if possible.
And if not, he sighs and gets to work tugging the thing far enough off to the side for their cart to go. Either way, it didn't take a lot of insight to figure out the Scholar had no intention of resting or remaining anywhere near the area until either night started to fell or they reached the town.
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
Now recognising that the fire is no longer an immediate threat, Ander bends down to try again to retrieve the fallen man's body, but is surprised when something on or near the corpse explodes, sending a wave of ash and heat into the young knight's tanned face. Robust enough to not be overly troubled by the blast, Ander turns towards the scale and scarf clad man in preperation to deliver some words of solace, when the tall, broad-shouldered paladin notes the man clasping at something on a chain as he looks with something akin to acceptance upon the remains of his fallen friend.
Respectfully giving the men time to mourn their departed companion, the holy warrior nods as the man in thick winters clothing with the white braided hair explains their current undertaking and invites Ander to accompany them. Glad that this one seems to recognise his benevolent intentions, Ander smiles as he helps the man shoulder the dead animal from the road to clear way for the cart. As this comparably tall man finishes speaking, Ander raises one hand into clear view while clasping the amulet of his order that also serves as his cloak clasp with the other, while saying calmly and with clear sincerity,'
"Thank you, friend...? I have no more pressing matters currently than helping to keep these roads clear of bandits and other menaces, and would gladly accompany you both to Phandelin. It would be my pleasure to share the trail ahead with you both."
Then, wiping the sweat from his brow, the heavily armoured figure mounts his steed with a smooth much praticed ease, though the horse itself seems somewhat skittish, whether due solely to the smoke and flames, or because of an unfamiliarity with its rider one could not accurately judge. As he settles into his saddle, Ander casually looks to see what the other man is doing.
[OOC] athletics check: 19 to help move the dead horse from the trail.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
(will wait until Ryner responds before pressing. Today is the first day of comicon so my post will come close in time to the posting time on this one)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(Sorry I'm late XP, thanks for waiting)
Ryner seems less effected by Marius death then he was of the consequential fires that enveloped his body. Eventually he to moves to the cart, but waits to say something before jumping in.
"Hold on." Ryner, looks in the direction that the goblins ran in originally, but points to whatever might still remain of the dead horses they'd uncovered before, "There's a good chance that our employer may have been captured by those things, even if we deliver those supplies, we'd be needing him to tell us what happens after."
"What is that you say - your employer is being held by goblin raiders? Near here? Well, of course we should investigate further. No person should be abandoned to such a fate!
We should be clear of these fires quickly, but in which direction? I'm afraid that I'm no tracker or woodsman."
The helmeted Ander nods at Ryner indicating that the holy knight is more than willing to assist. As needed, the not-overly outdoors savvy paladin will help Ryner look around the area for signs or indications of which way the goblins went.
[OOC] Anders is attempting to grant Ryner advantage on his survival check with the paladin's help action.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Salazar is silent, and at even a glance clearly conflicted on the news. Although he keeps looking back and forth between the road, fire, and surrounding forest, his attention lingers the longest on the road. "... I-I can't..." He finally admits, clutching at his wounds. "I-If those goblins really d-did kidnap them, it... Y-you saw them, Ryner. We hardly s-survived five of them! F-five! A-and those t-two were better equipped then us... m-more experienced. We... We don't stand a chance." He admits, then narrows his eyes sternly at Ryner.
"And wh-whatever foul magic you em-employed isn't stopping. E-even if we managed to g-get them out sooner, o-our one direct escape is b-bound to be blocked off. And then what?!" Salazar shakes his head, then turns determinedly back to the road. "No. I'm barely in shape to k-keep these oxen going. I... I just can't. If y-you two want to go hunting, then... by all means. I'll... *sighs*...I just can't." His mind thus made up, Salazar gives Ryner one last look to see if he'll join or otherwise before mustering the resolve to lead them on to the trail back to Phandalin.
(I am going to be quite busy until next Sunday, so response will either be slow or non-existent until then.)
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
'Ander holds up a hand in confusion, though he offers Salazar a sympathetic and unjudgemental nod, saying,'
"Hold a second, Salazar. Did Ryner not just say that your friend, or employer at least, has been captured by goblins? Is possibly right now being tortured or prepared for sacrifice? Surely you would not willingly abandon him to such a grissly fate?
While I understand that you are hurt, please listen to me. As a champion of Lathander, I am blessed by the Morning Lord with the ability to heal those in need. Though we have just met, I beseech you to allow me to assist you with your wounds.
I saw the amulet that you wear... and sense that you are not a cruel, callous or evil man, so I would offer a compromise that should allow us all to hopefully live in good conscience with our actions. What if, after granting you Lathander's healing light, we first see if we can even find where these goblins have gone? If we can, then we follow them to see if the situation might be one that we can handle? If either we can't find them, or don't think that we can handle whatever we do find, then we can justifiably go to this Phandalin for additional aid... despite the time that doing so would take.
How does this proposal strike you?"
[OOC] Ander is genuinely sympathetic to Salazar's condition and feelings, but certainly doesn't like the idea of abandoning an innocent to death by goblins, so he will attempt persuasion to sway the clearly hurt and frightened Salazar: 18
*edit - insight check to support his hunch about Salazar not really wanting to abandon his employer: 13
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Poorly." Salazar immediately responds, glaring at the paladin for a moment or two before looking back to the road. Neither words or look had any real potency however, as the cleric clearly remained conflicted over the subject. As it goes on, Ander at least gets the sense that Salazar indeed did not wish to abandon his employer... but less so out of the goodness of his heart. Rather, he kept looking over his shoulder or tilting his head as if listening to something, then getting this really pensive look as if weighing the matter. A look Ander might find familiar from interacting or observing followers and holy men of the more cerebral oriented gods and goddesses of the realm.
"... This is why I dislike you servants of the Morninglord. Whether you intend to or not, you manipulate people into getting themselves killed on a whim of goodness." Salazar states bluntly, the stuttering gone as he stares back at Ander. He then sighs and adjusts the reigns in hand. "Unless Ryner here can snuff out those f-flames here and now, I will proceed forward a ways. And if Tymora wills it, I might f-find a river or large enough break in the trees to be considered keep the oxen safe from any spreading flames. Afterwards... a-af-after... *huffs* After they are secure, I am willing to double back to look on foot -- But not a moment before." He states firmly. "If you both want to go ahead still, mark your course for me to follow." He looks about to the fire. "Assuming it isn't blocked by flames... keep hold of those blessings of yours, Sir Ander's. For if we do find Mister Gundrun and Sir Sildar, they will need it more than I, I suspect."
Salazar only lingers around long enough for brief response before attempting to forward on the road ahead with or without the others. And true to his word, he keeps an eye out for any potential safe zone close at hand, but far enough from the blaze.
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
About 100 yards ahead, a small stream is seen, a little more than ankle deep. (Can't post much since no true course of action has been determined)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Ryner nods at Salazar's words, then proceeds to attempt to find a safe way through the flames.
(What should I roll?)
Towards Phandalin there are no flames. You cast it in the direction you came from. No roll needed
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Ander nods acceptance of the white-haired man's refusal of healing, puzzled but less concerned now that he recognises the man's symbol as belonging to one of Tymora's faithful. No doubt, the Tymoran is familiar enough with divine healing arts to judge what is in his own best interests, Ander thinks to himself. The paladin is pleasantly surprised that Salazar seems nothing like the reckless adventure obsessed Tymoran priestess that the paladin had once encountered in Waterdeep. Neither did Salazar's view of his own risk-taking bother the holy knight - Lathander guided the young warrior's hammer and destiny. To Ander, goodness was no whim, but a calling.
Regardless, these two had obviously been through a harrowing ordeal, and Ander had no wish to cause them further discomfort. The one who required rescuing was their friend or acquaintance, not his. Should they choose the more cautious route to town to acquire more aid, he would not gainsay it, though bother him it might.
"As you wish, friend Salazar, though it pains me to hear you speak so of Lathander's faithful. I merely wished to clearly point out the choices before us and possible consequences, as you both seem understandably disconcerted by your recent ordeals. I have no wish to "manipulate" you and the Order of the Aster does not dabble in whimsy, I assure you."
[OOC] Unless Ryner points out the direction the goblins went and wants to follow now, Ander will help Salazar find a safe camp for the party and the man's oxen.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
(posting soon)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(since no one is choosing a course of action, I will :P)
After a while of debate near the slowly growing fire, the group eventually settles on taking another rest, in order to get Salazar back to 100%. 50
It takes a few minutes, but after crossing the tiny stream a distance away, and down the side of the inclined ravine a spot that seemed safe enough to rest and hidden enough in the trees and far enough away from the fire to be safe. During the rest no goblins come seeking, and whoever was on watch had a peaceful time of it. There were no usual forest noises, most of the animals being scared by the fire, most likely. Over the next few hours or so, Salazar is able to recover his spell slots and health as much as possible.
In the distance the fire seems to have disappeared, though the sky is filled with dark smoke. When and if the group decides to follow the goblins direction, the entire area that had once been a forest, was now a mixture of wet mud, and charred trees. The majority of the forest seemed to have been annihilated by the ever growing fire, but eventually, running out of fuel, the fire died out at some point during the rest. The tree's in the ravine were untouched, being just far enough away to avoid the flames. The rest of the forest, in the direction the goblin went, was charred, black, ashen husks.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Having accompanied both Salazar and Ryner well beyond any threat of the guttering fires to find somewhere safe to park the cart and tether the oxen and his own mount, Ander helps set up a brief camp and offers to keep watch, respectfully not bringing up the ordeal the men had just survived or their fallen comrade. Having prepared a simple meal of cold preserved meats, hard trail bread and uncooked corn, the paladin then nods to both men as he moves to a climb a nine foot tall boulder nearby, saying only,'
"Rest, friends. I am fresh, having exerted myself little prior to meeting you this day. I will keep watch and when you are ready, we will take what actions you see fit regarding your missing employer."
[OOC] perception check to keep watch: 14
athletics check if needed: 18
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
(Salazar has yet to fully reveal the amulet, just to be clear. He grabbed it while it was still obscured by his scarf. Though I see where the point of confusion is, and will make for an "interesting" reveal further along the lines)
(Salazar also didn't have any spellslots expended(yet). If only for the sake of brevity however he recovered his hp though, then nevermind this short rest dice roll: 5)
It is only for a few seconds, but Salazar looked regretful for his words. Then the look is gone, replaced by one of mild exhaustion again. "That was unfair of me. B-but I do hope you take some of it to heart. I have read and heard far too many a-accounts back at home of a few passionate words triumphing reason. All too often at the cost of far too much." Is Salazar final comment before the group find their rest.
Having expending nothing in the way of strength to power miracles, an hour alone is enough for the Scholar to bandage and clean up his wounds. But as the distant smoke and fire had continued to rage against all odds, the man gladly takes it easy after tending to the oxen and cart. Whatever ease soon turned back to pensive watch, if albeit halfheartedly due to Ander taking point.
"... Mm... Mayhaps in the future, Mister Ryner, we can... w-well, not use any more fire magic? At least, not in any places where one of the m-more flammable material? I-I know you probably didn't meant f-for things to escalate the way they did, but... you know... Th-though on the well off side, ch-chances are if they w-were any traps or other ambushers waiting along the way, th-that fire certainly sought t-to them too! " He smiles a toothy but strained smile. Upon receiving an answer and the group eventually moving on to the goblin path, Salazar makes one final check to make sure the Oxen wouldn't run off while they were away. After he follows in the wake of the two, if albeit with growing concern over the whole ordeal.
Yog - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Stars/Celestial (Libretalia)
Nobody - [Feral-Tiefling]Wizard/Sorcerer - War/Draconic (HoTDQ)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Dreams/Archfey
-
Hiatus:
Xanrazan - [Earth Genasi]Bard - College of Swords(Shadowthorn's Princess of the Apocalypse)
Ryner pulls on his hood, but gives a nod of acknowledgment. Having already rested up, he doesn't do much, but sit in meditation. He focuses his mind towards his patron and remembering the aspects of the fight so he can improve himself.