Haj looks at the map for a while. Although these lands are strange to him, certain things never change - if you want to move quickly you need a road, or at least a track.
"I suggest we head west until we hit the road, and then turn north to Dagger Falls and Snowmantle. Unless anybody knows a reason to avoid that route?"
Cal woke early and went into the town, he couldn't sleep well, restless thoughts kept his mind too busy to stay alseep. Intermixed with flashes of the scenes of the burning tavern that haunted him, intrusive thoughts fluttered in. This town was ripe for a conman to swindle a small fortune. Desperation made for easy marks.
As he walked the streets in the early light of dawn he ran through some of the usual suspects. A classic gold brick scheme? These people were certainly in need of goods, counterfitting supplies would be profitable, that might work. Might work really well. Except there wasn't time to prepare. No. That wouldn't be practical.
He considered others he'd run. A grandparent scam? Too cruel. A romance? Takes too long. Oh, the fortune teller. Hmm. A little late for that. The insurance salesman? He stops walking. Thinking this one over. Claim to sell insurance and be willing to sign a contract dated a month prior for a fee... yes. The whole town's a mark for that one. Cal smiles. And continues thinking over how best to earn a coin in this trying time.
As he strolls through the market he watches as the people of this place diligently get to work. Life can't just come to a screeching halt, it must progress, ceaseless forward motion. They are resilient. Already clearing debris. Already in the streets with wares.
Cal listens intently to their passing conversations looking for the right person, the right time to swindle another coin. But each opportunity that presents itself he finds a reason not to try it. The morning stretches on, the sun now in the sky, why is he hesitating? He'd be a 100 gold richer by now any other day. Already celebrating his spoils in a local tavern...
He sighs, weary from the vigilance of the hunt. Did he just not care about the coin? No, the thought of the sound of a jingling bag and all the comforts it could buy... that is still appealing. Then why?
He wanders another hour, and finds he has brought himself back to the tavern. Seeing the rubble in the light of day makes it clear. He cared what had happened to these people more than he wanted to. They were wronged. Deeply wronged. Many died. He couldn't... wouldn't add to that.
Unclenching his fists he set out to help clear the rubble. It wouldn't be much, but today he'd make the town a little better instead of a little worse. That much, he could do. He'd join the others when they were ready to depart.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.
(As a side note, I'll keep renewing Taya's +1 Armor until I say otherwise) Horros agreed with the notion that he didn't need a healing potion, "I'm a tough son of a gun anyways, If I go down, we've got bigger problems hehe."
Before leaving the town, Horros would stop by the local smith and seek supplies, "Smith to smith, we're going after the bastards that attacked this town and I know I'll be maintaining our arms and armor. Got any spare supplies we can use for the journey? I ain't got much to pay for em, but a few gold pieces and Moradin's blessing right now, but I can give my word of paying you back and time working with you for payment..." (Persuasion if needed + guidance 5 )
Depending on how the conversation goes, Horros will spend the rest of the time saying his farewells to the villagers he helped heal, giving his blessing and promising to return with good news. He then reunites with the group giving insights on his abilities, "I'm best on the front line, supporting those around me. Outside of combat, I can work on gear that folks need when I have the supplies and time. Obviously, I'm a devout follower of Moradin so I know a thing or two on the spiritual side of things."
The local smith paused, weighing Horros's words. There was a moment of silence, a mutual understanding shared between two individuals dedicated to the same craft. Finally, the smith nodded, a gruff yet kind gesture.
"I've got some essentials that might serve you well," the smith replied, his voice tinged with respect. He turned and rummaged through his supplies, returning with a small bundle. "Here's some oil for the armor, a whetstone for your blades, and a few iron ingots. Might come in handy for any repairs you need to make on the way."
As Horros, burdened with supplies from the town's smithy, made his way back to the caravan, he was approached by Father Aelred, the elderly priest of Chauntea in Shadowdale. The priest's demeanor was one of deep respect and heartfelt gratitude.
“Good day to you,” Father Aelred greeted. “I am Father Aelred, servant of Chauntea here. I have been seeking you and your companions, Galdric and Haj, for a very special reason.”
Father Aelred's eyes were warm as he spoke. “In these dark times, true heroism shines brightly. You, Horros, with your healing hands; Haj, with his gallant rescue in our temple, despite his injuries; and Galdric, who showed remarkable bravery, almost at the cost of his own life. You've all done what many feared to do, including Lord Varden’s men.”
Reaching into his robe, Father Aelred brought out three items, each symbolizing the town's appreciation. He handed a small, finely crafted amulet to Horros. “This amulet,” he explained, “represents the healing and nurturing spirit you've brought to our community. It's a symbol of our gratitude and a reminder of the impact you've made here.”
He then presented a woven band, adorned with symbols of strength and resilience. “This Band of Bravery,” he said, giving it to Horros, “is for Haj. It symbolizes the courage he displayed, a beacon of hope in our darkest hour.”
Lastly, he revealed a dignified medal. “And this Medal of Valor is for Galdric, to honor his unwavering courage and selflessness.”
As Father Aelred entrusted the items to Horros, he added, “Please pass these to Galdric and Haj, and tell them that you carry with them the hopes and thanks of all Shadowdale.”
Cal woke early and went into the town, he couldn't sleep well, restless thoughts kept his mind too busy to stay alseep. Intermixed with flashes of the scenes of the burning tavern that haunted him, intrusive thoughts fluttered in. This town was ripe for a conman to swindle a small fortune. Desperation made for easy marks.
As he walked the streets in the early light of dawn he ran through some of the usual suspects. A classic gold brick scheme? These people were certainly in need of goods, counterfitting supplies would be profitable, that might work. Might work really well. Except there wasn't time to prepare. No. That wouldn't be practical.
He considered others he'd run. A grandparent scam? Too cruel. A romance? Takes too long. Oh, the fortune teller. Hmm. A little late for that. The insurance salesman? He stops walking. Thinking this one over. Claim to sell insurance and be willing to sign a contract dated a month prior for a fee... yes. The whole town's a mark for that one. Cal smiles. And continues thinking over how best to earn a coin in this trying time.
As he strolls through the market he watches as the people of this place diligently get to work. Life can't just come to a screeching halt, it must progress, ceaseless forward motion. They are resilient. Already clearing debris. Already in the streets with wares.
Cal listens intently to their passing conversations looking for the right person, the right time to swindle another coin. But each opportunity that presents itself he finds a reason not to try it. The morning stretches on, the sun now in the sky, why is he hesitating? He'd be a 100 gold richer by now any other day. Already celebrating his spoils in a local tavern...
He sighs, weary from the vigilance of the hunt. Did he just not care about the coin? No, the thought of the sound of a jingling bag and all the comforts it could buy... that is still appealing. Then why?
He wanders another hour, and finds he has brought himself back to the tavern. Seeing the rubble in the light of day makes it clear. He cared what had happened to these people more than he wanted to. They were wronged. Deeply wronged. Many died. He couldn't... wouldn't add to that.
Unclenching his fists he set out to help clear the rubble. It wouldn't be much, but today he'd make the town a little better instead of a little worse. That much, he could do. He'd join the others when they were ready to depart.
As Cal labored quietly among the ruins of the tavern, lost in his thoughts and conflicting emotions, a young couple approached him. They were the same ones he had heroically rescued from the flames that fateful night. Their expressions were a mix of relief and deep gratitude as they neared him.
The young woman, her eyes bright with unshed tears, spoke first. "Excuse me, sir," she said softly. "We... we just wanted to say thank you. We owe our lives to you."
Her companion, equally moved, added, "Yes, thank you. We lost everything in that fire, but because of you, we still have each other."
Cal paused in his work, the couple's words breaking through the haze of his internal debate over his usual cons and schemes.
The young man continued, "We don't have much to offer in return, but we have a cousin, Lira, who works at the Red Rock Inn in Dagger Falls. If you could, please let her know we're safe."
The woman nodded, a hopeful look in her eyes. "Lira would be very grateful, and she's the kind to always return a favor. I'm sure she'd be more than willing to help you and your group out in Dagger Falls, especially after what you've done for us."
"Red Rock Inn. Dagger Falls. Lira." Cal echos their directions. "Yes, I will let her know you're ok. I'm glad you're ok. What are your names?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.
"Red Rock Inn. Dagger Falls. Lira." Cal echos their directions. "Yes, I will let her know you're ok. I'm glad you're ok. What are your names?"
"I'm Lila, and this is Eron. Thank you. We're grateful for your help." Her voice carries a mix of relief and lingering worry as she glances at Eron, who nods in agreement.
Horros thanks both the Smith and the father and ensures them that he will deliver the amulets appropriately. He brings his newly acquired supplies and the amulets back to camp handing them to Haj and Galdric. “Looks like we’ve got some friends to come back to when we return. I’m good to go.”
Bell is satisfied with this further evidence, and now quite convinced, the Sembians have been set up. And judging from the current rhetoric, it is entirely possible that the administration here is involved?
While imprudent enough to want to explore the desert, he is not so foolish, as to wish to do it by himself. (North toSnowmantle it is, then, for now. I suspect we will find ourselves journeying to the Shadow Sea, in time).
Haj survival roll (highest modifier tied with zyzix): 4 - fail, subtract 2 rations. Total remaining for each member should be 28 days worth
The party set out from Shadowdale under the somber morning sky, with Haj confidently leading the way into the dense forest. The initial path was clear, but as the trees grew thicker and the canopy closed off the light, the way became less certain. The forest, ancient and sprawling, seemed to shift around them, paths twisting and turning unexpectedly.
As hours passed, it became increasingly clear that they had strayed from their intended route. The dense foliage and tangled underbrush obscured their vision, while the occasional distant howl or rustle in the undergrowth set them on edge. Haj, realizing the error, navigated through the maze of trees with growing unease, the weight of the group's trust heavy on his shoulders.
The forest itself felt like a living, breathing entity, its whispers and creaks telling tales of ages long past. The further they wandered, the more the sense of being watched seemed to grow. Shadows played tricks on their eyes, and the line between imagination and reality blurred.
It wasn't until late afternoon, when the light filtering through the canopy took on a golden hue, that they stumbled upon the mercenaries' trail. The discovery was almost accidental – a broken branch here, a footprint there – subtle signs that spoke of a group moving with haste.
You have found mercenary tracks. How will you proceed (for example: ignore them? Someone scouts ahead? All move together?) This is an RP encounter… for now
Taya moves with the two horses and the two caravan guards in the middle of the group, where she helps to navigate the horses through the dense forest and to traverse the occasional creak. If the painfully slow progress through the foliage weren't enough, the forest itself appears to be disturbed by their presence and threatens to swallow them up whole, or so it feels to Taya. When the evening neared, she begun to worry that they will need to find a defendable area for their camp and she started to look out for open spaces, like small glade. That is when news of tracks arrived to her.
"We should stay together, I think, at least in range of communication," she says (and points out that she can communicate quietly with message that doesn't need line of sight), "We don't know the forest and the dangers that lie within and if we separate we are much more vulnerable. If the mercenaries truly travel in haste, it is unlikely that they would scout their backs, or prepare an ambush. The forest, on the other hand, has me worried. Still, it is a good sign that the mercenaries came this way. This means we are on the right track! And if we follow them, we should have it easy enough to leave this forest. But first, I think we must be looking for a good, defendable campsite before nightfall."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
Horros will cast guidance for Haj’s next survival check as he follows behind the ranger about 5 feet behind on average. “A campsite would be smart. We can scout around from there. I ain’t one for traversing through the night if we don’t have to. Haj can you tell how old these tracks are?”
He turns to the group, “horses will probably need a break soon but what does everyone else think?”
"The tracks are fairly recent, I'd say no more than a day old, if that".
"I agree with setting camp, I wouldn't want us to wander of course again, and if they change direction we could miss it in the dark."
Haj sets off to check out the surrounding area, checking to see if the serpents have changed direction, but mostly to check the surrounding area for any other unwelcome company.
"I also agree that it'd be wise to camp for the night. A group that size will not be able to move as quickly as us, so now that we have their trail, we should have no trouble catching up to them."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Kaelan Thornfell - Wildhunt Shifter Beast Barbarian - Horde of the Dragon Queen
Gustuck "Grumpy Gus" Clayshaper - Deep Gnome Astral Self Monk - Malady of Minarrh
Shelmo Sherrinford - Fairy Inquisitive Rogue - Vae Victus
As dusk began to paint the forest in shades of twilight, Taya, Horros, and Galdric, with the rest of their group, understood the necessity of finding a secure place to camp for the night. Once a suitable site was located, Haj, ever vigilant, decided to scout the surrounding area to ensure their safety.
The chosen campsite was in a small clearing, naturally fortified by a dense thicket on one side and a formation of imposing boulders on the other. It offered a strategic advantage, essential for their overnight stay in the unpredictable wilderness.
Together, the group swiftly set up their camp. They gathered wood for a small fire, keeping the flames low to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Makeshift shelters were erected, providing some comfort against the forest floor, and watches were scheduled to maintain a vigilant eye throughout the night. (This is for flavor, you can choose to prep camp however you want)
With the campsite prepared, Haj quietly ventured out to scout. He moved with stealth, his senses tuned to the forest's subtle sounds and movements. His exploration led him through the shadowy woods, where the silence was occasionally broken by the distant rustle of leaves or the soft creak of a tree.
In a secluded area, not far from their camp, Haj came upon a scene that sent a chill down his spine. An abandoned campsite lay before him, its state suggesting a hasty and chaotic departure. The ground was marred with large, ominous footprints, far bigger than any human's, and patches of coarse, dark fur were caught on the underbrush — signs of massive, predatory creatures.
In the center of the campsite, a grim sight awaited him: the remains of a mercenary, unmistakably marked by the violence of a savage attack. The bloodstained earth and the brutality of the scene spoke of a struggle against formidable foes.
"I can confirm that the serpents came this way, but at least one didn't make it much further because we're not alone here, and whatever he stumbled upon was big, and savage."
"We could move on, but I would suggest that we stay as we don't know where the beast is. Also, I would suggest that we spread out and try to find resting places that have some cover, amongst the boulders is probably best."
Haj knelt to examine the ground. The earth told a tale of a brutal encounter. He noticed two distinct sets of tracks crisscrossing the area. The first set was unnervingly large, with a vaguely humanoid shape but of a scale that suggested a creature of immense size. The second set of tracks was equally disturbing: they resembled wolf prints, but were larger and deeper than any wolf Haj had ever known or heard of.
In the center of the camp, the remains of the mercenary lay in a macabre display. The body had been thoroughly and savagely picked clean of flesh, the bones cracked open and hollowed out, as if whatever feasted on it had sought to consume every morsel, every drop of marrow. The casual brutality of it sent a shiver down Haj's spine.
Scattered around the site, he found several sets of human-sized tracks, distinct from the larger, monstrous prints. These were chaotic, showing signs of struggle, with some appearing to have been dragged away from the camp. All the tracks, both the large and the human-sized, led northward, suggesting a singular direction for the perpetrators and their captives.
In light of the dire news about lurking monsters that carry away people, violent mercenaries as they may be, Taya tries to push efforts harder to prepare camp. "Let's whittle some branches into impromptu spears and drive them into the ground at the access points to this campsite!" she suggests. "If they come for us, at least they don't overrun us in an instant. Perhaps, a little fortification buys us time to organise our defence. Gods help us if it comes to that!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
"So a large man and his large wolf"Cal suggests after hearing the details. "We should take precautions sure, but what are the odds they return here tonight? Having freshly fed... and chasing the mercenaries off to the north no less. With luck they're far from here by now."He says this with a forced confidence, the insightful among the group able to tell he's trying to ease his own concerns as much or more than everyone else's.
His expression changes then, as though something dawns on him, an expression of resilience takes the place of any doubt. "And if it does end up being a man, even a massive one, then maybe he's just as easily influenced as any other might be."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.
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Haj looks at the map for a while. Although these lands are strange to him, certain things never change - if you want to move quickly you need a road, or at least a track.
"I suggest we head west until we hit the road, and then turn north to Dagger Falls and Snowmantle. Unless anybody knows a reason to avoid that route?"
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
Cal woke early and went into the town, he couldn't sleep well, restless thoughts kept his mind too busy to stay alseep. Intermixed with flashes of the scenes of the burning tavern that haunted him, intrusive thoughts fluttered in. This town was ripe for a conman to swindle a small fortune. Desperation made for easy marks.
As he walked the streets in the early light of dawn he ran through some of the usual suspects. A classic gold brick scheme? These people were certainly in need of goods, counterfitting supplies would be profitable, that might work. Might work really well. Except there wasn't time to prepare. No. That wouldn't be practical.
He considered others he'd run. A grandparent scam? Too cruel. A romance? Takes too long. Oh, the fortune teller. Hmm. A little late for that. The insurance salesman? He stops walking. Thinking this one over. Claim to sell insurance and be willing to sign a contract dated a month prior for a fee... yes. The whole town's a mark for that one. Cal smiles. And continues thinking over how best to earn a coin in this trying time.
As he strolls through the market he watches as the people of this place diligently get to work. Life can't just come to a screeching halt, it must progress, ceaseless forward motion. They are resilient. Already clearing debris. Already in the streets with wares.
Cal listens intently to their passing conversations looking for the right person, the right time to swindle another coin. But each opportunity that presents itself he finds a reason not to try it. The morning stretches on, the sun now in the sky, why is he hesitating? He'd be a 100 gold richer by now any other day. Already celebrating his spoils in a local tavern...
He sighs, weary from the vigilance of the hunt. Did he just not care about the coin? No, the thought of the sound of a jingling bag and all the comforts it could buy... that is still appealing. Then why?
He wanders another hour, and finds he has brought himself back to the tavern. Seeing the rubble in the light of day makes it clear. He cared what had happened to these people more than he wanted to. They were wronged. Deeply wronged. Many died. He couldn't... wouldn't add to that.
Unclenching his fists he set out to help clear the rubble. It wouldn't be much, but today he'd make the town a little better instead of a little worse. That much, he could do. He'd join the others when they were ready to depart.
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.
The local smith paused, weighing Horros's words. There was a moment of silence, a mutual understanding shared between two individuals dedicated to the same craft. Finally, the smith nodded, a gruff yet kind gesture.
"I've got some essentials that might serve you well," the smith replied, his voice tinged with respect. He turned and rummaged through his supplies, returning with a small bundle. "Here's some oil for the armor, a whetstone for your blades, and a few iron ingots. Might come in handy for any repairs you need to make on the way."
As Horros, burdened with supplies from the town's smithy, made his way back to the caravan, he was approached by Father Aelred, the elderly priest of Chauntea in Shadowdale. The priest's demeanor was one of deep respect and heartfelt gratitude.
“Good day to you,” Father Aelred greeted. “I am Father Aelred, servant of Chauntea here. I have been seeking you and your companions, Galdric and Haj, for a very special reason.”
Father Aelred's eyes were warm as he spoke. “In these dark times, true heroism shines brightly. You, Horros, with your healing hands; Haj, with his gallant rescue in our temple, despite his injuries; and Galdric, who showed remarkable bravery, almost at the cost of his own life. You've all done what many feared to do, including Lord Varden’s men.”
Reaching into his robe, Father Aelred brought out three items, each symbolizing the town's appreciation. He handed a small, finely crafted amulet to Horros. “This amulet,” he explained, “represents the healing and nurturing spirit you've brought to our community. It's a symbol of our gratitude and a reminder of the impact you've made here.”
He then presented a woven band, adorned with symbols of strength and resilience. “This Band of Bravery,” he said, giving it to Horros, “is for Haj. It symbolizes the courage he displayed, a beacon of hope in our darkest hour.”
Lastly, he revealed a dignified medal. “And this Medal of Valor is for Galdric, to honor his unwavering courage and selflessness.”
As Father Aelred entrusted the items to Horros, he added, “Please pass these to Galdric and Haj, and tell them that you carry with them the hopes and thanks of all Shadowdale.”
As Cal labored quietly among the ruins of the tavern, lost in his thoughts and conflicting emotions, a young couple approached him. They were the same ones he had heroically rescued from the flames that fateful night. Their expressions were a mix of relief and deep gratitude as they neared him.
The young woman, her eyes bright with unshed tears, spoke first. "Excuse me, sir," she said softly. "We... we just wanted to say thank you. We owe our lives to you."
Her companion, equally moved, added, "Yes, thank you. We lost everything in that fire, but because of you, we still have each other."
Cal paused in his work, the couple's words breaking through the haze of his internal debate over his usual cons and schemes.
The young man continued, "We don't have much to offer in return, but we have a cousin, Lira, who works at the Red Rock Inn in Dagger Falls. If you could, please let her know we're safe."
The woman nodded, a hopeful look in her eyes. "Lira would be very grateful, and she's the kind to always return a favor. I'm sure she'd be more than willing to help you and your group out in Dagger Falls, especially after what you've done for us."
"Red Rock Inn. Dagger Falls. Lira." Cal echos their directions. "Yes, I will let her know you're ok. I'm glad you're ok. What are your names?"
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.
"I'm Lila, and this is Eron. Thank you. We're grateful for your help." Her voice carries a mix of relief and lingering worry as she glances at Eron, who nods in agreement.
Horros thanks both the Smith and the father and ensures them that he will deliver the amulets appropriately. He brings his newly acquired supplies and the amulets back to camp handing them to Haj and Galdric. “Looks like we’ve got some friends to come back to when we return. I’m good to go.”
Bell is satisfied with this further evidence, and now quite convinced, the Sembians have been set up. And judging from the current rhetoric, it is entirely possible that the administration here is involved?
While imprudent enough to want to explore the desert, he is not so foolish, as to wish to do it by himself. (North to Snowmantle it is, then, for now. I suspect we will find ourselves journeying to the Shadow Sea, in time).
Bell is ready to depart.
Into the Forest
Haj survival roll (highest modifier tied with zyzix): 4 - fail, subtract 2 rations. Total remaining for each member should be 28 days worth
The party set out from Shadowdale under the somber morning sky, with Haj confidently leading the way into the dense forest. The initial path was clear, but as the trees grew thicker and the canopy closed off the light, the way became less certain. The forest, ancient and sprawling, seemed to shift around them, paths twisting and turning unexpectedly.
As hours passed, it became increasingly clear that they had strayed from their intended route. The dense foliage and tangled underbrush obscured their vision, while the occasional distant howl or rustle in the undergrowth set them on edge. Haj, realizing the error, navigated through the maze of trees with growing unease, the weight of the group's trust heavy on his shoulders.
The forest itself felt like a living, breathing entity, its whispers and creaks telling tales of ages long past. The further they wandered, the more the sense of being watched seemed to grow. Shadows played tricks on their eyes, and the line between imagination and reality blurred.
It wasn't until late afternoon, when the light filtering through the canopy took on a golden hue, that they stumbled upon the mercenaries' trail. The discovery was almost accidental – a broken branch here, a footprint there – subtle signs that spoke of a group moving with haste.
You have found mercenary tracks. How will you proceed (for example: ignore them? Someone scouts ahead? All move together?) This is an RP encounter… for now
Taya moves with the two horses and the two caravan guards in the middle of the group, where she helps to navigate the horses through the dense forest and to traverse the occasional creak. If the painfully slow progress through the foliage weren't enough, the forest itself appears to be disturbed by their presence and threatens to swallow them up whole, or so it feels to Taya. When the evening neared, she begun to worry that they will need to find a defendable area for their camp and she started to look out for open spaces, like small glade. That is when news of tracks arrived to her.
"We should stay together, I think, at least in range of communication," she says (and points out that she can communicate quietly with message that doesn't need line of sight), "We don't know the forest and the dangers that lie within and if we separate we are much more vulnerable. If the mercenaries truly travel in haste, it is unlikely that they would scout their backs, or prepare an ambush. The forest, on the other hand, has me worried. Still, it is a good sign that the mercenaries came this way. This means we are on the right track! And if we follow them, we should have it easy enough to leave this forest. But first, I think we must be looking for a good, defendable campsite before nightfall."
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
Horros will cast guidance for Haj’s next survival check as he follows behind the ranger about 5 feet behind on average. “A campsite would be smart. We can scout around from there. I ain’t one for traversing through the night if we don’t have to. Haj can you tell how old these tracks are?”
He turns to the group, “horses will probably need a break soon but what does everyone else think?”
"The tracks are fairly recent, I'd say no more than a day old, if that".
"I agree with setting camp, I wouldn't want us to wander of course again, and if they change direction we could miss it in the dark."
Haj sets off to check out the surrounding area, checking to see if the serpents have changed direction, but mostly to check the surrounding area for any other unwelcome company.
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
"I also agree that it'd be wise to camp for the night. A group that size will not be able to move as quickly as us, so now that we have their trail, we should have no trouble catching up to them."
Kaelan Thornfell - Wildhunt Shifter Beast Barbarian - Horde of the Dragon Queen
Gustuck "Grumpy Gus" Clayshaper - Deep Gnome Astral Self Monk - Malady of Minarrh
Shelmo Sherrinford - Fairy Inquisitive Rogue - Vae Victus
Solstice Nightchill - Winter Eladrin Hunter Ranger - The Yawning Portal
Captain Duskstar - Human Hex "Gun" Warlock - Airships and Whiskey
As dusk began to paint the forest in shades of twilight, Taya, Horros, and Galdric, with the rest of their group, understood the necessity of finding a secure place to camp for the night. Once a suitable site was located, Haj, ever vigilant, decided to scout the surrounding area to ensure their safety.
The chosen campsite was in a small clearing, naturally fortified by a dense thicket on one side and a formation of imposing boulders on the other. It offered a strategic advantage, essential for their overnight stay in the unpredictable wilderness.
Together, the group swiftly set up their camp. They gathered wood for a small fire, keeping the flames low to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Makeshift shelters were erected, providing some comfort against the forest floor, and watches were scheduled to maintain a vigilant eye throughout the night. (This is for flavor, you can choose to prep camp however you want)
With the campsite prepared, Haj quietly ventured out to scout. He moved with stealth, his senses tuned to the forest's subtle sounds and movements. His exploration led him through the shadowy woods, where the silence was occasionally broken by the distant rustle of leaves or the soft creak of a tree.
In a secluded area, not far from their camp, Haj came upon a scene that sent a chill down his spine. An abandoned campsite lay before him, its state suggesting a hasty and chaotic departure. The ground was marred with large, ominous footprints, far bigger than any human's, and patches of coarse, dark fur were caught on the underbrush — signs of massive, predatory creatures.
In the center of the campsite, a grim sight awaited him: the remains of a mercenary, unmistakably marked by the violence of a savage attack. The bloodstained earth and the brutality of the scene spoke of a struggle against formidable foes.
Haj returns to the camp with a grim look.
"I can confirm that the serpents came this way, but at least one didn't make it much further because we're not alone here, and whatever he stumbled upon was big, and savage."
"We could move on, but I would suggest that we stay as we don't know where the beast is. Also, I would suggest that we spread out and try to find resting places that have some cover, amongst the boulders is probably best."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
“With any luck this beast and the Serpents will stay focused on each other. If nothing else this development could slow down the Serpents even more”
Kaelan Thornfell - Wildhunt Shifter Beast Barbarian - Horde of the Dragon Queen
Gustuck "Grumpy Gus" Clayshaper - Deep Gnome Astral Self Monk - Malady of Minarrh
Shelmo Sherrinford - Fairy Inquisitive Rogue - Vae Victus
Solstice Nightchill - Winter Eladrin Hunter Ranger - The Yawning Portal
Captain Duskstar - Human Hex "Gun" Warlock - Airships and Whiskey
Haj knelt to examine the ground. The earth told a tale of a brutal encounter. He noticed two distinct sets of tracks crisscrossing the area. The first set was unnervingly large, with a vaguely humanoid shape but of a scale that suggested a creature of immense size. The second set of tracks was equally disturbing: they resembled wolf prints, but were larger and deeper than any wolf Haj had ever known or heard of.
In the center of the camp, the remains of the mercenary lay in a macabre display. The body had been thoroughly and savagely picked clean of flesh, the bones cracked open and hollowed out, as if whatever feasted on it had sought to consume every morsel, every drop of marrow. The casual brutality of it sent a shiver down Haj's spine.
Scattered around the site, he found several sets of human-sized tracks, distinct from the larger, monstrous prints. These were chaotic, showing signs of struggle, with some appearing to have been dragged away from the camp. All the tracks, both the large and the human-sized, led northward, suggesting a singular direction for the perpetrators and their captives.
((You can retcon this if you want in light of the narrative post assuming haj shares the details, since we posted within a minute of each other))
In light of the dire news about lurking monsters that carry away people, violent mercenaries as they may be, Taya tries to push efforts harder to prepare camp. "Let's whittle some branches into impromptu spears and drive them into the ground at the access points to this campsite!" she suggests. "If they come for us, at least they don't overrun us in an instant. Perhaps, a little fortification buys us time to organise our defence. Gods help us if it comes to that!"
Sorry, I'm beginning to enter a vacation period and while I will try to check-in at least daily, I cannot promise that I will always be able to do so. From September 1, I should be back to normal.
|| Oriace - Halfling Bard - Dragon Heist || Valerian - Elf Rogue - Wildnis || Rowan - Halfling Giant - Runewarren || Khazela - Spiritfarer Dervish - Tribute || Arista - Frost Sorcerer - Old Keep || Marasatra - Blood Mage - Avernus ||
"So a large man and his large wolf" Cal suggests after hearing the details. "We should take precautions sure, but what are the odds they return here tonight? Having freshly fed... and chasing the mercenaries off to the north no less. With luck they're far from here by now." He says this with a forced confidence, the insightful among the group able to tell he's trying to ease his own concerns as much or more than everyone else's.
His expression changes then, as though something dawns on him, an expression of resilience takes the place of any doubt. "And if it does end up being a man, even a massive one, then maybe he's just as easily influenced as any other might be."
I'm probably laughing.
It is apparently so hard to program Aberrant Mind and Clockwork Soul spell-swapping into dndbeyond they had to remake the game without it rather than implement it.