Looking over the case and contents Nosem tries to determine the points of interest on the map. "My oh my." Pointing at the case so others can follow along, he reads aloud, "G.R." The atmosphere of the group shifted to more serious and somber. The realization setting in that the scene they discovered involved their employer, Gundren Rockseeker. Nosam, selfish and self-absorbed, tried to bring a little optimism to the group. He couldn't put his finger on it, but he kind of liked these folks; as chaotic as all this was shaping out to be, it sure beat being alone in his head. "Well well, if this isn't quite the pickle. I was looking forward to resting my little legs and partaking in entirely too much frothy goodness this evening. I suppose following the trail of boss man might be more productive. On the brighter side, we have a scroll of something or other for one of you magicky folk, and don't you all go fighting over it. Plus we now have this fancy map to lead us. These X markings could be where they stashed ol Gundren.... hah, or they just might be spots. X's mark the spots." Amused by his own humor as always.
The goblin escape route receiving attention on one side of the road, Gundren moves closer towards the opposite side. He works his way along the brush line looking for something to prompt the next move, making sure to stay within earshot of the group.
Looking over the case and contents Nosem tries to determine the points of interest on the map.
(OOC: Note - the scroll case was apparently empty until Marten noticed that the beeswax sheet was not affixed to the inside. The “Map to XXXX” and “Spell scroll for -----” were just a sort of label on the outside of the scroll case. We're still waiting for @1973 to reveal what was under the beeswax sheet. My guess is that the goblins already took either the map or the scroll before they discarded the scroll case, and the other one is under the beeswax cover.)
Marten: "Hm. What's this?", he says, as he takes out one of his woodcarver's knives and then uses it to pry up the beeswax cover carefully. "Looks like a waterproof cover." He removes any papers that were under the beeswax and lays them on the cart seat for the party to examine together.
Underneath the beeswax is a long piece of fine, delicate parchment whose edges glitter: a spell scroll. There is no map in the cylinder, which, remember, was open when you found it. (OOC: I will play it like so: a spellcaster may take one hour to “handle” a spell scroll and in so doing gain an understanding of what spell is written upon it.)
"we should certainly try to get Gundren free, but with our resources spent we would likely just be captured or killed ourselves, perhaps if we rest in the town, then attack the goblins shortly after dawn we would have a fighting chance? besides if we leave the wagon here it will certainly be stolen and the oxen killed and eaten." vidruth frowns worriedly "but I dont know if he has that kind of time, we will probably have to risk it because there is no way they have less than ten others and im not liking them calling their leader by name. it indicates they arent being lead by a goblin, usually a goblin would lord over other goblin and make them call them boss, or lord or something, it takes a belief of significant strength and lack of foolish pride to allow them to use your name. i do have one more spell for the day and i can guarantee one dead goblin with it, or call the thunder again"
he starts trying to move the horses from the path, levering at them with his staff as necessary (athletics if applicable 13)
"daphyra, i reckon if the scroll is for a priest you keep it for an emergency and if its for a wizard i add it to my spellbook alright?"
ooc// ive been just using a different font for words but i can use a colour if you want. also the SRD says that
A spell scroll bears the words of a single spell, written in a mystical cipher. If the spell is on your class’s spell list, you can read the scroll and cast its spell without providing any material components. Otherwise, the scroll is unintelligible
but as always its the DM's prerogative to change any and all rules as they see fit.
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
vidruth looks around kinda helplessly before trying to see if he can tell what tribe the goblins are from (18 investigation if applicable)
Vidruth notes that the goblins have shaved their teeth to an unusual degree of sharpness so they appear fierce and jagged. Vidruth may have heard of a goblin tribe in this area with such a tradition. (OOC: Please make a History check to see how much you know.)
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
Berry listens to the report of discoveries while caressing the oxen and helping to dress their wounds. “I could scout around to see if I find where the goblins went, perhaps with you, Marten?,” he suggests as he feels that he’s not able to help much with the beasts. “If you really believe they are so close by, they may be returning before we finish to clear the road. Best we are prepared to receive them. We could prepare a trap for them, or an ambush, they might not be expecting to be ambushed half way to their ambush site.” With a powerful jump, Berry is in the air hovering at the party’s eye level, “They nearly killed one of us(for Berry the beasts of burden form an equal part of the team) and I have half a mind to bring the fight into their hideout. Anyway, even if we make it to Phandalin, where will we deliver the goods if Gundren has been taken? We could surprise them now with a bold move and get Gundren out of a tight spot. If we deliver the wagon first and then return, they might have throw him into the stew already before we get there.”
Regarding Berry's question of where they'd delivery the supplies, Marten says, "I thought that Gundren was already operating out of Phandalin. He said that he and his brothers had found 'something big', so I expect that we'll find them or people working for them in Phandalin."
Putting the case to Kiselina, he says, " And it ain't as if those horses were killed today. The goblins snatched Gundren a day or two ago. If he ain't stew already, then they probably kept him alive for a reason. Better to return tomorrow, fresh."
Marten suggests to the group (but mostly directed at Kiselina), "We should help Gundren, if we can, but it don' help him none if'n we get captured or killed. We fought off the first ambush easy as y'd like, but goblins can be slippery foes. It sounds like Daphyra and maybe others could use some rest before we face another fight. I say: finish the first job, then rest comfortably in Phandalin tonight, and then return early tomorrow."
"Unless we're all gonna follow Berry...just set the oxen loose to graze and try to raid the goblin nest today...we need to clear the horses off the road so that we can get the wagon moving before the one who got away returns with more goblins. Thanks to Daphyra," with a slight nod in her direction, "Moon survived the attack. With two oxen to pull the cart, I reckon we could still make Phandalin before dark. We could even lighten the beasts' load by removing some gear from the cart and carrying it ourselves on foot. It'll be a hard march, but there's a safe town and warm food at the end of it."
If the others agree he will scout where the goblin went and the accessible area around the path and the road to determine if there would be a good place for an ambush of their own, and to see if he can determine where the humanoids have been dragged towards.
Action: Scout vicinity with focus on the goblins’ escape path and possible ambush sites around it, (Survival: 12+1, somehow the phone scrolled up when pressing the skill check on the character sheet and I rolled Sleight of Hand. The roll was a 12 with a modifier of 3, I figured I can use the roll for the Survival check with the correct mod.)
(OOC: Edited for retcon. Since Marten was still busy with the horses and such, he wasn't available to go with Berry.)
As Berry flies off, Marten says, "Maybe fairies can fly because they're 'flighty.' Well...you know my vote, but someone should keep an eye on the fairy.I'll not go far, but I'll watch the trail head for any more goblins. I'll shout for 'reinforcements' if we get into trouble, but I'll just holler 'incoming' if we're bringing the enemy back here." Marten backs away and pauses a moment to see whether Kiselina or anyone needs anything else from him. If not, he leaves Kiselina, Kiselina, and Daphyra to decide what to do next. (He suggests that Nosam should stay with them to help move the horses out of the road--no easy task!)
As he jogs back to T6, you hear him calling, "Wait up Berry!"
When Marten gets to the trail head, he tells Berry (hovering overhead), "I'll creep up the trail a bit so that I'm not too far away if'n ye need me, but this trail...", he looks and shakes his head, "Well, it's made for little goblins, and it'll be slower goin' than flyin' like a bird. Just don't get too far ahead, eh? Ye can fly, but ye'r a much bigger target than a bird, and a skilled archer can shoot a bird of the air. Be careful. We just want to know where they're going and whether more are already on their way back."
As Berry flies north over the trail, Marten creeps along the trail below at a slow pace, both trying to be stealthy and checking for traps as he goes. In his brief time scouting for an army, he saw how hit-and-run troops would plan a secondary ambush or put hidden pits and other obstacles along their planned escape route. Even if the 4 goblins had killed both oxen, they had to expect resistance from such a heavily-armed group. Marten imagines the bold goblins "fleeing" up the trail, and luring the party into a trap.
(OOC:
IIRC, the path is difficult terrain for Medium members. I think that puts Marten at an effective speed of 10 ft or 1 mile / hour (slow pace and then 1/2 speed for difficult terrain).
Trying to move quietly: Stealth25 Looking for a secondary ambush or trap: Perception24
"we should certainly try to get Gundren free, but with our resources spent we would likely just be captured or killed ourselves, perhaps if we rest in the town, then attack the goblins shortly after dawn we would have a fighting chance? besides if we leave the wagon here it will certainly be stolen and the oxen killed and eaten." vidruth frowns worriedly "but I dont know if he has that kind of time, we will probably have to risk it because there is no way they have less than ten others and im not liking them calling their leader by name. it indicates they arent being lead by a goblin, usually a goblin would lord over other goblin and make them call them boss, or lord or something, it takes a belief of significant strength and lack of foolish pride to allow them to use your name. i do have one more spell for the day and i can guarantee one dead goblin with it, or call the thunder again"
(OOC: Simultaneous post, so maybe imagine Marten's points as following / reinforcing what Vidruth said. :-)
I dont know if he has that kind of time,
As above, Marten thinks that the goblins would have killed Gundren shortly after capture or have a reason to keep him alive (ransom, information he knows, leverage as a hostage, etc.). Since the horses were killed 2 - 3 days ago, if Gundren isn't already dead, he'll probably be OK for another day while the party finishes the first job and recharges.
Marten definitely does not like the idea of raiding the goblin layer unless the spellcasters are well-rested and planning for such a day.)
Underneath the beeswax is a long piece of fine, delicate parchment whose edges glitter: a spell scroll. There is no map in the cylinder, which, remember, was open when you found it. (OOC: I will play it like so: a spellcaster may take one hour to “handle” a spell scroll and in so doing gain an understanding of what spell is written upon it.)
(OOC: Bummer, but not unexpected.)
Marten is pleased. He always enjoys discovering secret things and solving puzzles. He checks the case again, finding nothing else, and says, "I'm afraid that the goblins got the map, which explains why they dropped the scroll case. But it seems that they missed this!" He holds up the spell scroll proudly and puts it on the wagon seat for Daphyra and Vidruth to examine.
Marten hands them the scroll case for carrying the scroll: he has no use for it. He says, "If it's the spell scroll, maybe one of you can use it. And I'm sure that Gundren wouldn't mind if we used his scroll to rescue him!"
Berry feels an urge to pursue the goblin and find out where they are hiding but he remembers Marten’s words. ‘Would they really shoot down a bird?’ He takes a final look at the fleeing goblin to judge his trajectory and then returns in haste to report to Marten. “The goblin went some three miles into the foothills and kept going. Was half an hour way, give or take. There are a few places where we could mount a surprise for them. Want me to keep an eye out for when they return or should we try to make as much way as we can towards Phandalin? If I stay, you could organise an ambush for them and I can let you know when to spring the trap. But perhaps if we hurry, instead, we might have time to get out of these woods and make good way to Phandalin to refresh and relieve ourselves from the cargo.” He asks Marten for his decision, who clearly seems to be the expert in this situation.
Vidruth notes that the goblins have shaved their teeth to an unusual degree of sharpness so they appear fierce and jagged. Vidruth may have heard of a goblin tribe in this area with such a tradition. (OOC: Please make a History check to see how much you know.)
History: 11
Vidruth is aware of a tribe in this area called the “Cragmaw” Tribe, for their pointy teeth.
It is now around 1:30pm in the afternoon on this day in Eleint, The Fading, the ninth month of the Calendar of Haptos.
Berry returns to the party and reports back to Marten.
Vidruth has had no success shifting the 1000lb bodies of the horses with his spear. To move them may require uncoupling the oxen from the wagon and employing their massive muscles on the oxen.
Vidruth can tell that the spell scroll is arcane. (OOC: A spellcaster may take one hour to “handle” a scroll and thereby understand what spell is written upon it.)
Kiselina and Vidruth have had no luck in moving the horses to clear a path. He had thought of using Sun when he first left the oxen. He returns to retrieve Sun, planing on using the ox’s strength to remove the horse corps from the road enough to allow the cart to pass. “Anyone else want to assist in this endeavor”
Kiselina will hook up the ox to one horse and direct the ox to pull the horse to the side of the road. Repeating the process with the other horse but to the other side of the road and in the other direction. Hopefully opening up an ‘S’ shaped route for the wagon to navigate around. He will then reconnect Sun to the wagon.
vidruth will help keep the oxen calm by patting them and speaking soothingly the whole time to try and distract them from the pain and smell of blood (animal handling 10)
"that scroll is arcane in nature, does anyone object to me studying it and likely adding it to my spellbook? it would mean the loss of the scroll but allow me to add it to my repertoire"
once the oxen are rehitched to the wagon he uses shape water to clean their wounds with the water in his waterskin.
ooc// how long have we been traveling so far, just asking to see about how many rations we used
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
Daphyra keeps a motherly eye on Moon as Sun is hitched to the horse corpses and asked to drag each off the road. She is beginning to tire of tending to oxen who unlike well-bred city folk, don't even have the good manners to thank her for her efforts. But she figures the oxen are the key to getting the group back on the road again, and maybe she would come across as suitably indispensable in the stories the others tell later of this unfortunate episode.
She frowns when Vidruth suggests adding the spell to his spellbook; she would have liked to study it herself even if it is not divine magic, but doesn't want to admit it aloud. She puts on a slightly martyred air, sighs and waves him to keep the spell. "No, I have all the spells I deserve. The goddess will provide if I am in need of more magic."
She continues under her breath, "Unless that WAS the goddess providing..."
Once the oxen are re-hitched to the wagon, she clears her throat. "I'm not sure the oxen will get very far. Although Moon has soaked up the last of Kiselina and my healing powers, I don't believe she has strength enough to get the wagon and all its cargo to Phandalin. Perhaps we can each help lighten the load?"
vidruth looks at daphyra confused "if you want to take a look at it then feel free, but unless i was mistaken you cannot cast arcane magic? remind me to ask you about the goddess providing and what that means once we are safely in down"
"Perhaps we can each help lighten the load?"
"If i carry my pack instead of having it follow me, my floating disk can carry up to five hundred pounds" he suggests cautiously "i doubt i can personally carry much though, my strength was payment for my boon"
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
"that scroll is arcane in nature, does anyone object to me studying it and likely adding it to my spellbook? it would mean the loss of the scroll but allow me to add it to my repertoire"
Nosam moves towards the area to assist with the horse removal. "My vote, for whatever that's worth, is whoever can read the thing should go for it. I know I can't do much with it, and we need to make use of all the resources we can." He begins his warm up and stretching routine, ready to show the group what brute force he can offer.
(OOC: I guess we would need to clear the horses off the path in any case, but did we definitely decide to try to press on to Phandalin? Or are we turning aside to go find the goblins' hideout? Or it's still under discussion?)
If Kiselina and Vidruth were unsuccessful, Marten will assist with getting the ox to move the horses.
(OOC:Marten has a +4 in animal handling, but I'll wait for @1973's guidance on how to handle a group skill check or whether we could consider it a check with help from the others.)
Otherwise, if we're planning to continue to Phandalin, Marten can use that time to start taking things out of the wagon that the party could distribute and carry to lighten the load for the oxen. In particular, he'll try to find or make a compact, heavy bundle that will fit on Vidruth's floating disk.
"that scroll is arcane in nature, does anyone object to me studying it and likely adding it to my spellbook? it would mean the loss of the scroll but allow me to add it to my repertoire"
"Whatever you think's best," Marten mumbles with an unconcerned shrug. He knows very little about these wizard's concerns.
ooc// how long have we been traveling so far, just asking to see about how many rations we used
(OOC: from post #12, I believe that we're currently on day 3. @1973, was there food for the journey on the wagon, or should we be using our own rations for the trip to Phandalin? I do try to keep my character sheet's inventory up-to-date.)
ooc// how long have we been traveling so far, just asking to see about how many rations we used
You have traveled 2.5 days.
Ben_ “was there food for the journey on the wagon, or should we be using our own rations for the trip to Phandalin?”
You should use your own rations.
Kiselina will hook up the ox to one horse and direct the ox to pull the horse to the side of the road. Repeating the process with the other horse but to the other side of the road and in the other direction. Hopefully opening up an ‘S’ shaped route for the wagon to navigate around. He will then reconnect Sun to the wagon.
vidruth will help keep the oxen calm
Daphyra keeps a motherly eye on Moon.
Nosam moves towards the area to assist with the horse removal. (Animal Handling18 / Athletics14)
Marten will assist with getting the ox to move the horses.
Following Kiselina’s lead, and with help from Vidruth, Marten, and especially Nosam, Sun strains and pulls at the dead horses’ bodies. This succeeds, and thirty minutes later, the sad corpses have been moved aside, enough to allow the wagon to pass, and the ox has been re-hitched to the wagon. This took particular effort from Nosam, who has worked up a sweat but with complete success.
The morning clouds have continued to travel the skies, and by now around 2pm, you see only blue through the branches overhanging the Triboar Trail.
(OOC: There is no need to double back, but to clarify, in the map case was a spell inscribed on a scroll, not a ‘spell scroll.’ So Vidruth, copying the spell will not destroy it. You will discover this when you take the time & spend the gold to copy the spell into your book.)
(To aid with deciding what to do next: In your next post please state what course of action your character prefers, and make a CHA check. If there is a tie, we will decide what you do by comparing Charisma check totals. This way, characters, not players, are owners of the decision.)
Vidruth would like to head to phandelver, deliver the supplies, rest, and attack better prepared and fresh. (charisma roll 4 [6 if persuasion proficiency applies])
if we head to phandelver he studies the scroll as they travel
if we go after the goblins he double checks all his gear and rearranges his pack
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This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic byVitaly S Alexius
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Looking over the case and contents Nosem tries to determine the points of interest on the map. "My oh my." Pointing at the case so others can follow along, he reads aloud, "G.R." The atmosphere of the group shifted to more serious and somber. The realization setting in that the scene they discovered involved their employer, Gundren Rockseeker. Nosam, selfish and self-absorbed, tried to bring a little optimism to the group. He couldn't put his finger on it, but he kind of liked these folks; as chaotic as all this was shaping out to be, it sure beat being alone in his head. "Well well, if this isn't quite the pickle. I was looking forward to resting my little legs and partaking in entirely too much frothy goodness this evening. I suppose following the trail of boss man might be more productive. On the brighter side, we have a scroll of something or other for one of you magicky folk, and don't you all go fighting over it. Plus we now have this fancy map to lead us. These X markings could be where they stashed ol Gundren.... hah, or they just might be spots. X's mark the spots." Amused by his own humor as always.
The goblin escape route receiving attention on one side of the road, Gundren moves closer towards the opposite side. He works his way along the brush line looking for something to prompt the next move, making sure to stay within earshot of the group.
Investigation rolled 2 (Passive is 10)
"Wherever we choose to go, I think we ought to stay together for now. Don't think it'd be too wise until we know more of the story."
(OOC- Noticed changing dialogue color, changed mine as well. If it needs to be a certain one let me know.)
(OOC: Note - the scroll case was apparently empty until Marten noticed that the beeswax sheet was not affixed to the inside. The “Map to XXXX” and “Spell scroll for -----” were just a sort of label on the outside of the scroll case. We're still waiting for @1973 to reveal what was under the beeswax sheet. My guess is that the goblins already took either the map or the scroll before they discarded the scroll case, and the other one is under the beeswax cover.)
Underneath the beeswax is a long piece of fine, delicate parchment whose edges glitter: a spell scroll. There is no map in the cylinder, which, remember, was open when you found it. (OOC: I will play it like so: a spellcaster may take one hour to “handle” a spell scroll and in so doing gain an understanding of what spell is written upon it.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
"we should certainly try to get Gundren free, but with our resources spent we would likely just be captured or killed ourselves, perhaps if we rest in the town, then attack the goblins shortly after dawn we would have a fighting chance? besides if we leave the wagon here it will certainly be stolen and the oxen killed and eaten." vidruth frowns worriedly "but I dont know if he has that kind of time, we will probably have to risk it because there is no way they have less than ten others and im not liking them calling their leader by name. it indicates they arent being lead by a goblin, usually a goblin would lord over other goblin and make them call them boss, or lord or something, it takes a belief of significant strength and lack of foolish pride to allow them to use your name. i do have one more spell for the day and i can guarantee one dead goblin with it, or call the thunder again"
he starts trying to move the horses from the path, levering at them with his staff as necessary (athletics if applicable 13)
"daphyra, i reckon if the scroll is for a priest you keep it for an emergency and if its for a wizard i add it to my spellbook alright?"
ooc// ive been just using a different font for words but i can use a colour if you want. also the SRD says that
but as always its the DM's prerogative to change any and all rules as they see fit.
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Vidruth notes that the goblins have shaved their teeth to an unusual degree of sharpness so they appear fierce and jagged. Vidruth may have heard of a goblin tribe in this area with such a tradition. (OOC: Please make a History check to see how much you know.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
history 11
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Regarding Berry's question of where they'd delivery the supplies, Marten says, "I thought that Gundren was already operating out of Phandalin. He said that he and his brothers had found 'something big', so I expect that we'll find them or people working for them in Phandalin."
Putting the case to Kiselina, he says, " And it ain't as if those horses were killed today. The goblins snatched Gundren a day or two ago. If he ain't stew already, then they probably kept him alive for a reason. Better to return tomorrow, fresh."
Marten suggests to the group (but mostly directed at Kiselina), "We should help Gundren, if we can, but it don' help him none if'n we get captured or killed. We fought off the first ambush easy as y'd like, but goblins can be slippery foes. It sounds like Daphyra and maybe others could use some rest before we face another fight. I say: finish the first job, then rest comfortably in Phandalin tonight, and then return early tomorrow."
"Unless we're all gonna follow Berry...just set the oxen loose to graze and try to raid the goblin nest today...we need to clear the horses off the road so that we can get the wagon moving before the one who got away returns with more goblins. Thanks to Daphyra," with a slight nod in her direction, "Moon survived the attack. With two oxen to pull the cart, I reckon we could still make Phandalin before dark. We could even lighten the beasts' load by removing some gear from the cart and carrying it ourselves on foot. It'll be a hard march, but there's a safe town and warm food at the end of it."
(OOC: Edited for retcon. Since Marten was still busy with the horses and such, he wasn't available to go with Berry.)
As Berry flies off, Marten says, "Maybe fairies can fly because they're 'flighty.' Well...you know my vote, but someone should keep an eye on the fairy. I'll not go far, but I'll watch the trail head for any more goblins. I'll shout for 'reinforcements' if we get into trouble, but I'll just holler 'incoming' if we're bringing the enemy back here." Marten backs away and pauses a moment to see whether Kiselina or anyone needs anything else from him. If not, he leaves Kiselina, Kiselina, and Daphyra to decide what to do next. (He suggests that Nosam should stay with them to help move the horses out of the road--no easy task!)As he jogs back to T6, you hear him calling, "Wait up Berry!"When Marten gets to the trail head, he tells Berry (hovering overhead), "I'll creep up the trail a bit so that I'm not too far away if'n ye need me, but this trail...", he looks and shakes his head, "Well, it's made for little goblins, and it'll be slower goin' than flyin' like a bird. Just don't get too far ahead, eh? Ye can fly, but ye'r a much bigger target than a bird, and a skilled archer can shoot a bird of the air. Be careful. We just want to know where they're going and whether more are already on their way back."As Berry flies north over the trail, Marten creeps along the trail below at a slow pace, both trying to be stealthy and checking for traps as he goes. In his brief time scouting for an army, he saw how hit-and-run troops would plan a secondary ambush or put hidden pits and other obstacles along their planned escape route. Even if the 4 goblins had killed both oxen, they had to expect resistance from such a heavily-armed group. Marten imagines the bold goblins "fleeing" up the trail, and luring the party into a trap.(OOC:IIRC, the path is difficult terrain for Medium members. I think that puts Marten at an effective speed of 10 ft or 1 mile / hour (slow pace and then 1/2 speed for difficult terrain).Trying to move quietly: Stealth 25Looking for a secondary ambush or trap: Perception 24)(OOC: Simultaneous post, so maybe imagine Marten's points as following / reinforcing what Vidruth said. :-)
As above, Marten thinks that the goblins would have killed Gundren shortly after capture or have a reason to keep him alive (ransom, information he knows, leverage as a hostage, etc.). Since the horses were killed 2 - 3 days ago, if Gundren isn't already dead, he'll probably be OK for another day while the party finishes the first job and recharges.
Marten definitely does not like the idea of raiding the goblin layer unless the spellcasters are well-rested and planning for such a day.)
(OOC: Bummer, but not unexpected.)
Marten is pleased. He always enjoys discovering secret things and solving puzzles. He checks the case again, finding nothing else, and says, "I'm afraid that the goblins got the map, which explains why they dropped the scroll case. But it seems that they missed this!" He holds up the spell scroll proudly and puts it on the wagon seat for Daphyra and Vidruth to examine.
Marten hands them the scroll case for carrying the scroll: he has no use for it. He says, "If it's the spell scroll, maybe one of you can use it. And I'm sure that Gundren wouldn't mind if we used his scroll to rescue him!"
Berry feels an urge to pursue the goblin and find out where they are hiding but he remembers Marten’s words. ‘Would they really shoot down a bird?’ He takes a final look at the fleeing goblin to judge his trajectory and then returns in haste to report to Marten. “The goblin went some three miles into the foothills and kept going. Was half an hour way, give or take. There are a few places where we could mount a surprise for them. Want me to keep an eye out for when they return or should we try to make as much way as we can towards Phandalin? If I stay, you could organise an ambush for them and I can let you know when to spring the trap. But perhaps if we hurry, instead, we might have time to get out of these woods and make good way to Phandalin to refresh and relieve ourselves from the cargo.” He asks Marten for his decision, who clearly seems to be the expert in this situation.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Yawning Portal || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus || Lan Shi - Liquid Swords || Syed - Drakkenheim || Kaelthor - Dragonlance ||
Vidruth notes that the goblins have shaved their teeth to an unusual degree of sharpness so they appear fierce and jagged. Vidruth may have heard of a goblin tribe in this area with such a tradition. (OOC: Please make a History check to see how much you know.)
History: 11
Vidruth is aware of a tribe in this area called the “Cragmaw” Tribe, for their pointy teeth.
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
It is now around 1:30pm in the afternoon on this day in Eleint, The Fading, the ninth month of the Calendar of Haptos.
Berry returns to the party and reports back to Marten.
Vidruth has had no success shifting the 1000lb bodies of the horses with his spear. To move them may require uncoupling the oxen from the wagon and employing their massive muscles on the oxen.
Vidruth can tell that the spell scroll is arcane. (OOC: A spellcaster may take one hour to “handle” a scroll and thereby understand what spell is written upon it.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Kiselina and Vidruth have had no luck in moving the horses to clear a path. He had thought of using Sun when he first left the oxen. He returns to retrieve Sun, planing on using the ox’s strength to remove the horse corps from the road enough to allow the cart to pass.
“Anyone else want to assist in this endeavor”
Kiselina will hook up the ox to one horse and direct the ox to pull the horse to the side of the road. Repeating the process with the other horse but to the other side of the road and in the other direction. Hopefully opening up an ‘S’ shaped route for the wagon to navigate around. He will then reconnect Sun to the wagon.
Animal Handling: 7.
vidruth will help keep the oxen calm by patting them and speaking soothingly the whole time to try and distract them from the pain and smell of blood (animal handling 10)
"that scroll is arcane in nature, does anyone object to me studying it and likely adding it to my spellbook? it would mean the loss of the scroll but allow me to add it to my repertoire"
once the oxen are rehitched to the wagon he uses shape water to clean their wounds with the water in his waterskin.
ooc// how long have we been traveling so far, just asking to see about how many rations we used
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Daphyra keeps a motherly eye on Moon as Sun is hitched to the horse corpses and asked to drag each off the road. She is beginning to tire of tending to oxen who unlike well-bred city folk, don't even have the good manners to thank her for her efforts. But she figures the oxen are the key to getting the group back on the road again, and maybe she would come across as suitably indispensable in the stories the others tell later of this unfortunate episode.
She frowns when Vidruth suggests adding the spell to his spellbook; she would have liked to study it herself even if it is not divine magic, but doesn't want to admit it aloud. She puts on a slightly martyred air, sighs and waves him to keep the spell. "No, I have all the spells I deserve. The goddess will provide if I am in need of more magic."
She continues under her breath, "Unless that WAS the goddess providing..."
Once the oxen are re-hitched to the wagon, she clears her throat. "I'm not sure the oxen will get very far. Although Moon has soaked up the last of Kiselina and my healing powers, I don't believe she has strength enough to get the wagon and all its cargo to Phandalin. Perhaps we can each help lighten the load?"
Past characters:
Cariadne - Forest of Celador
Daphyra Fuffletail - The City of Cats
DM - Geek Legends - Wild beyond the Witchlight
Leela Steadystone - Adventures in the Sands
Mirri Goldenhorn - Journeys through the Radiant Citadel
Lola Smythe-Whyte - Larkin Expedition
Daphyra - Deathworld: Lost Mine of Phandelver
Vanja - Binder's Hold and the Problem with the Mine
vidruth looks at daphyra confused "if you want to take a look at it then feel free, but unless i was mistaken you cannot cast arcane magic? remind me to ask you about the goddess providing and what that means once we are safely in down"
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius
Nosam moves towards the area to assist with the horse removal. "My vote, for whatever that's worth, is whoever can read the thing should go for it. I know I can't do much with it, and we need to make use of all the resources we can." He begins his warm up and stretching routine, ready to show the group what brute force he can offer.
Animal Handling18
Athletics14 (9+5)
"I'd be happy to help with the animals or have a go at some lifting and pushing. I'm ready when you are. Say the word"
If Kiselina and Vidruth were unsuccessful, Marten will assist with getting the ox to move the horses.
(OOC:Marten has a +4 in animal handling, but I'll wait for @1973's guidance on how to handle a group skill check or whether we could consider it a check with help from the others.)
Otherwise, if we're planning to continue to Phandalin, Marten can use that time to start taking things out of the wagon that the party could distribute and carry to lighten the load for the oxen. In particular, he'll try to find or make a compact, heavy bundle that will fit on Vidruth's floating disk.
(OOC: Nice idea, BTW!)
"Whatever you think's best," Marten mumbles with an unconcerned shrug. He knows very little about these wizard's concerns.
(OOC: from post #12, I believe that we're currently on day 3. @1973, was there food for the journey on the wagon, or should we be using our own rations for the trip to Phandalin? I do try to keep my character sheet's inventory up-to-date.)
You have traveled 2.5 days.
You should use your own rations.
Following Kiselina’s lead, and with help from Vidruth, Marten, and especially Nosam, Sun strains and pulls at the dead horses’ bodies. This succeeds, and thirty minutes later, the sad corpses have been moved aside, enough to allow the wagon to pass, and the ox has been re-hitched to the wagon. This took particular effort from Nosam, who has worked up a sweat but with complete success.
The morning clouds have continued to travel the skies, and by now around 2pm, you see only blue through the branches overhanging the Triboar Trail.
(OOC: There is no need to double back, but to clarify, in the map case was a spell inscribed on a scroll, not a ‘spell scroll.’ So Vidruth, copying the spell will not destroy it. You will discover this when you take the time & spend the gold to copy the spell into your book.)
(To aid with deciding what to do next: In your next post please state what course of action your character prefers, and make a CHA check. If there is a tie, we will decide what you do by comparing Charisma check totals. This way, characters, not players, are owners of the decision.)
DM for Candlekeep Mysteries // Dev Hornd in Curious Critters // Eclipse Faraway in Gallows Dancer
Vidruth would like to head to phandelver, deliver the supplies, rest, and attack better prepared and fresh. (charisma roll 4 [6 if persuasion proficiency applies])
if we head to phandelver he studies the scroll as they travel
if we go after the goblins he double checks all his gear and rearranges his pack
This Mug immediately shared with me a transcendental tale of an Infinite Mug that anchors the Universe and keeps it from folding in on itself. I filed this report under "illogical nonsense" and asked why its sign is in Times New Roman font, when it is basic knowledge that Arial Black is a far superior font. I wondered: How did this mug even get past the assembly line with its theistic beliefs and poor font choices?
quote from Romantically Apocalyptic by Vitaly S Alexius