Relieved that Lathander had seen fit to allow him to heal his two allies, Ander gives mental praise to his benevolent deity as the young paladin tries to make the two men as comfortable as possible.
Seeing the injured, unconscious but thankfully still living form of the man who Ander hopes is Ryner and Salazar's employer brought out, the young templar again sets about trying to heal and bring comfort to the clearly mistreated man.
When Yeemik speaks to him with undiminished adulation regarding what should be done next, the barely standing warrior takes a moment to just study the goblin before respoding, trying to get a read on how genuine and lasting this subservient attitude towards Ander may be.
@DM - essentially Ander is trying to work out if it would be safe enough to rest here (short or long), or whether he thinks the goblins' accomodating behaviour could shift suddenly?
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...
The shaman is much like Smeagle after getting rid of Gollum. His loyalty is all but assured, barring feeling betrayed or used. It feels safe enough to live here, for a 'while' though not make it a permanent home, for many reasons.
The shaman is much like Smeagle after getting rid of Gollum. His loyalty is all but assured, barring feeling betrayed or used. It feels safe enough to live here, for a 'while' though not make it a permanent home, for many reasons.
Sildar continues to breathe raggedly.
Unnable to quite put a finger on why, Ander for some reason feels that the goblin's reverence is genuine and that he and his companions would be safe here... for the moment. Looking down at the clearly exhausted form of the rescued prisoner, the golden-haired young warrior nods his head upon reaching a decision and says to Yeemik,'
"Thank you, Yeemik. You serve well and have pleased me... so far. We will rest here for some time. Bring blankets and make my companinions as comfortable as possible. When they awake they will need food. Human food that is.
While your fellow goblins do this, you will tell me of your tribe and these caves - Why are you here? Are there other creatures that share these tunnels with you? Are there any other dangers or treasures here? Do you and your people prey on those who pass by? If given your freedom, what would you do?"
[OOC] persuasion check if needed (rolled with advantage because of his god-like status, lol. Ignore the second number if not applicable) to get Yeemik to tell him all: 25
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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...
Yeemik looks down, clearly thinking of how best to follow the command. After a moment, he says in [Goblin] Emmenez les nouveaux humains dans les enclos d'alimentation. Mettez-les près du feu. Ou le soleil va nous tuer tous comme il l'a fait Klarg. The goblins complying, carrying Ryner and Salazar to the feeding pens, and laying them by the cookfires. Salazar and Ryner were surrounded by corpses of various sexes, races, and worst of all.. ages. Sometimes it was just limbs, other-times it was entire bodies, but usually, it was just bones. But the Goblins did not harm the new people, for fear of the sun, in human form, slaying them all.
After this, the goblins warily shuffled about the cave, so used to needing to aggress any new threat, or face Klargs wrath, this was a new feeling to most of them, who were young enough to have never seen their last tribe.
Over the next six hours, Yeemik explains to Anders the following, though in much more expansive terms. In whatever location Anders chose.
"Human Food" in stolen stuff. In Klargs den. Place you found Klarg. Other side of cave from feeding den. Our tribe lived in cave here. Hunted deer, rabbits. You know. We minded own business, know that outer world hate us. Think we and our language vile. Think we evil, and hate us with no justi-- jusfa? not sure word. But hate for no reason we know.
Other than Klarg and our dogs, we only thing here. You already kill Klarg, so now with all but one of dog dead, we all that left. Danger? Water trap, Klarg teach us how make. Have two pools. Only treasure what we stole. Lots of, but all heavy. Hard to carry very far without help. We no uh.. attack people until Klarg come. Klarg came here, and took over. Make us work for him or die. We tried fight, but he killed half us all. We learn not to defy.... Klarg sent by other. Klarg has master. Order us to capture Dwarf and Human for the master.
They have important information. We no know what is. But they only wanted Gundren, tell us to keep Sildar for food. We were going to eat tomorrow. Klarg answer to King Grol, cheif of Klarg, so cheif of Cragmaw tribe. It uh... That way he says, pointing 'roughly' Northeast Many miles, long walk to Cragmaw Castle, in big giant huge forest. Klarg got info from uh... Dark spider? He pay Klarg to watch out for Gundren, Sildar. Had whole tribe ambush at once. We already send Dwarf and his gear, and Human gear to Cragmaw Castle. That all Yeemik know.
Any further information will have to be acquired by Sildar, who is still in critical condition.
And what we do now? we no know. Now that humans know where we live, they will come kill us. So We will die free, Yeemik guess.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
It is around the two hour mark that Salazar awakens, groaning and slowly pushing himself to a seated position. Though dimmer, his eyes remain wholly subsumed in a dim blue light not unlike a tiefling. Yet seeming unaware of this, he scans the area trying to make sense of it all. "First blindness, then the deep... hn... Both well deserved."He half-muttered as the macabre scene of scattered limbs are the first to resolve in his vision.
Before despair can truly settle in however, the cleric probably hears the chatter or even sees out of the corner of his eyes movement. Expecting the face of fiends, he turns with an expression of defiance on his face; only to falter upon taking in the rest of the scene. Wide-eyed, he just stared, frozen in place, but listening to whatever explanations are given in response. Of his own change he says nothing. Neither is there an immediate response to any challenge about his previous actions. Rather upon either being directed or seeing Sildar and Ryner in varying degrees of harm, he silently chews on his lips for a moment before sighing and reaching out to the latter(Ryner).
From where his hand touched forehead, a warm white light flickers briefly into being and sinks into his body, restoring the smallest measure of vitality(Healing Hands-1HP restored). As soon as the divine essence leaves Salazar he swoons, but thankfully is able to at least brace himself on the ground with another hand. When next he opens his eyes to the world, they have returned to plain old greenish-gold human eyes. Salazar drags himself over to Sildar to see the extent of his injuries, tearing off far cleaner pieces of his own garb(at least some of the inner robes untouched by blood yet) to start resetting bandages, and cleaning wounds by waterskin.
The whole time he moves and hums something in an otherwordly tongue as if in trance. Though those that understood the language of the higher planes(celestial) would catch a few lyrics involving 'Mother's embrace' and 'restful slumber'. The rest... the rest was either too garbled from being sung too low, or far too archaic for even someone learned in the language. Either way, while at work, and even after the fact for a time, Salazar is mostly despondent unless shaken from his stupor.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Listening patiently and even with a degree of empathy at Yeemik's tale of subjugation and forced servitude, and then to hear the creature's worried tone as it questions its small tribe's fate, Ander eventually says with more conviction than he feels on the matter,'
"You were slave's to Klarg's will and the fell deeds you did you performed under duress and the bugbear's threatening command. This is clear. Before Klarg you were free and did not harm the other free peoples of this land. Now that Klarg is gone, you may return to that way of life. However, as you say, others may not see it this way and may come for you and your people. There are other caves, tunnels and caverns, in other regions, Yeemik. I would advise you to leave this place and travel far away to find a new home. Not towards this Cragmire Castle that you speak of, lest you find further enslavement at the hands of Grol who calls himself king.
The choice is yours, however. I thank you for your honesty and the information, Yeemik. You are no enemy of mine or my allies. Once my companions and I are well enough to travel, we will leave you to the fate that you choose for yourselves. I hope that you choose wisely and will pray that Lathander's grace keep you from darkness.
Standing up, Ander considers all that Yeemik told him of Sildar, Gundren and his fate, and of this Cragmaw Castle and goblin King Grol. Moving to again do what he can for the rescued Sildar before checking on the well-being of his allies before lying down to rest beside them. As he closes his eyes, the weary paladin silently committs to searching this entire complex carefully for further clues about the potential menace of a goblin leader strong enough to call himself king.
[OOC] As there is no external threat, can I just take 10 on my medicine check or use my passive score to help Sildar? If not, see the check below.
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...
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Sildar had been brought away from the brink, thanks to Salazars attentions earlier. So Sildar was not negatively affected by Anders clumsy hands.. perhaps he should have taken off his gauntlets?
Regardless, Sildar stirs, waking up eventually. The Long Rest, and conversation with Yeemik all passing eventually - allowing Sildar to actually heal as per long rest rules. Minus a few due to his wounds. 16 HP. Though still naked, and ..blushing slightly. He stared at the goblisn as they passed, not trusting them even half as much as Anders was, but in no position to argue with his saviors. Sighing, Sildar says I hate to Impose.. But would none of you happen to have a spare weapon? A longsword is preferred sicne none of oyu look capable of Weilding a Greatsword.. No offense meant. Or a shield? some spare armor? Or .. clothing... I can help you in this fight against Klarg.. It will bring me some satisfaction now that I know he is the primary puppet of another master that led to our defeat... But even a great warrior such as myself, can only do so much against a goblin hoards ambush. *sigh* Anyways, ..Thank you all for coming when you did. I did not expect to see your faces of all people, though I don't recognize this warrior.. what happened to the giant? Where did he go? Did he abandon his task?
"I am sorry... Sildar, is it? My name is Ander and you need not thank me for your rescue. It was my duty under the Morning Lord's watchful gaze to assist Ryner and Salazar in coming to your aid, though I was happy to do so.
Now that we are all rested, I suggest that we examine the rest of these caves. Hopefully we will find some armour or a weapon at least that will sit well in your hands. I can provide you with a javelin in the interim, though I have been assured that there are no other creatures or foes within these caverns.
Klarg himself is dead, though from what I have been told, it appears that he was allied with someone known as the Dark Spider and served someone named Grol who styles himself King of the goblins. Grol apparently rules from a place called Cragmaw Castle. I'm sorry to say that your companion Gundren was sent there, along with your posessions. Does any of this mean anything to you?
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...
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
I see... So Klarg has already fallen, and I was conscious enough to hear your deal with the Goblins... I'll have some people keep an eye on them, just to be sure, but .. it seems the danger is already gone..... And I suppose you're right.. As for this Dark Spider fellow... I wonder if he has anything to do with Iarno.... I've been on a quest to locate him ever since he went missing.. Perhaps... after we get to town I could tell you more, and you folks can help me. I will give you 50 gold each if you can provide anythign solid. But that still leaves Gundrens fate.. But .. atleast we know where to look. Gundren is stout.. He will waste as much of their time as he can manage. We should have some leeway after gettign to Phandalin.... We can't let the discovery of a century fade away because of an ambush or invonvenience.
By the way, i don't think I mentioned this before, but I am a member of the Lords Alliance. If you help me with these two things, If any of you desire to join as recruits.. I can.. arrange it. But that is for later. Perhaps this dark spider and my Iarno have somehting in common and we can use those leads to find yet more
(Since I'm about to pass the hell out, And since theres no other enemies, and the goblins won't betray (and they were moved by your words!) I will list the loot in Klargs Den.)
The wolf is conscious in the kennel area, but napping.
1 x Blue Chest with a Lion emblazoned on a shield for a symbol.
9 x Arrows
19 x Bolts
2 x Daggers
2 x Longswords
13 x Rations
2 X Potions of Healing
3 x Gold teeth
1x Maul (Klargs, must be wielded 2 handed by a medium humanoid. Same stats of 2d8)
Leaving the others to their own devices, and frankly to tired to expunge his wonder in either story or goblins situation, Salazar rested fitfully when it did come to him. At Sildar's later request, he offers his outer cloak freely, and even his buckler(shield). "He's dead. Slain by unfortunate timing, and errant magics."He admits, giving Ryner a sidelong glance before shaking his head solemnly. More than that he was reluctant to speak on for a time. Of Sildar's question about joining the Alliance, Salazar promptly shakes his head. "While there are certain... circumstances that has led me upon this path, I do no wish to further embrace what I feel such a joining implies. I am still a scholar, and would prefer to remain as much... current situation not withstanding."
Later, and after moving on to Klarg's den...
There is a moment of surprise on his face when the goblins actually agree to giving away the misbegotten goods. But wisely choosing not to look a gift horse in the mouth, Salazar thanks the goblins in general in thanks. "There are some things about what happen I still do not fully understand. But if you are to truly leave this place before this Grol or any subordinates come here, it may be best you keep the rations, bolts, arrows, and daggers. If nothing else, it will rob Grol of any further gains from this place."He smiles faintly.
"We... I should tend to the dead as well. Some kind of funeral pyre outside, perhaps. If you can assist me, Yeemick. Or at least your tribesman as far as taking them outside for the process?"He asks, and while the shaman deliberated, Salazar turns to the others. "Well, there's a longsword for you. And a chest too we try finish delivering back in Phandalin." He cants his head. "At least I think it was bound for there given the ambush route."He comments on, and if noone objects either takes a potion for himself or hands them both off to Ryner. Of the gold teeth, the scholar knows not what make of them if seen by him. But short of Ryner pocketing them, he does so himself to figure out what to do with them later.
Ander nods his head at Sildar's words about the Lord's Alliance and this missing Iarno, wondering at what the rulers of his home city had hoped to accomplish by sending an agent out here. The paladin grimaces initially at Salazar's giving the goblins weapons, but realises that such is probably for the best. If the creatures had meant harm, the almost certainly wouldn't be acting so cooperative now. Whatever happens in the future, Yeemik and his people at least deserve a chance to start over, though the young templar know's that many in his order might not agree.
The holy knight is completely disinterested in the loot beyond securing the chest for return to Phanadin. At Salazar's mention of a funeral, Ander agrees wholeheartedly and will assist Yeemik in building a pyre or otherwise preparing the bodies for their last rites. Taking the grissly task of sorting the dismembered and decomposed human bodies for burial, the conscientious paladin will search thoroughly in the hope of finding any identifying items or indicators that might allow him to provide closure to the kin of the dead.
Seeing Salazar showing Ryner the gold teeth, which were almost certainly looted from the bodies of slain victims of Klarg and his minnions, Ander steps forward, as he wipes the sweat from his brow after the work preparing the bodies for their last rites, to say,'
"As it is unlikely that we will be able to identify who those belonged to, we should consider donating them to a temple in Phandalin. In that way, not only do we avoid the taint of profiting from another's untimely death, but we may provide aid and solace to those who require succour or who provide such in times of need."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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...
The goblins help insofar as to take all corpses, and help pile them up, near enough to the stream in case the now very dry area from alighting in flames once more. Eventually, the pile was stacked, just slightly higher than waist high, and someone, with tinder and torch, lit the corpses ablaze. It wasn't a proper funeral pyre, but, it was the best that could be done, given the circumstances. The fire blazes, and the nauseating scent of humans, goblins, and bugbear intermingling. Though the goblins didn't seem to mind it as much. Eventually black smoke filled the sky as the sun rose to it's zenith. The temperature was perfect between the heat of the fire itself, and the chilled winter air.
The party collects the stolen goods. Sildar manages to find a pair of common clothing to hide his shame, though even then, it's ragged. Making the once fierce, fiery fighter look like a fallen noble on hard times. The goblins take their daggers, and look longingly at the cave that had been their ancestral home.... before shuffling off into the mountains. The goblins head south, back towards the ambush point, though it seems unlikely they intend to go back to their forced ways.
Now realizing there's nothing left here at the cave, the party should probably move onto Phandalin. Sildar says he wishes to talk more, once they reach Phandalin and he can get a proper set of gear again. Saying that he'd meet you all at the local Tavern-Inn called the Stonehill Inn. But that the group needed to finish taking the shipment to Phandalin, that was in the cart that had been left to the side of the road almost a full day ago.
As you all think on this, making your way to the cart, you feel refreshed, more experienced.
The entire party gains: 477 EXP. (I normally dont award this until resting but meh)
(Eh, we sort of rested earlier while waiting on Sildar to recover.)
"I cannot say I am particular fond of the idea of selling these particular sort of items myself. Albeit admittedly, moreso due to the process that it will no doubt entail then any misgivings of taint." Salazar admits frankly before giving an apologetic look. "Besides by that same logic, we -- N-no. Nope. I will not go down that route. Here. For make sure we got to see another sunrise, it should be up to you to decide what to do with these."Salazar offers the teeth to Anders before they ultimately set out to Phandalin.
Once the group were all packed up, Oxen fed and watered, and chest secured along with the rest, Salazar opts to take the reigns. He lost himself in the monotonous task. A thankful reprieve that helped him sort out the experience. Despite managing to uphold a stalwart expression in the wake of so much death and painful experience, tears trail down the side of his face after while as the memories play themselves back. And yet, there isn't a peep out of him.
"Is there more you can tell us about Phandalin, Sir Sildar, along the way?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Sildar holds his chin with his palm in a fist, as he decides how best to go about explaining.... Well...
The frontier town of Phandalin is built on the ruins of a much older settlement. Hundreds of years ago, the old Phandalin was a thriving human town whose people were firmly allied with the dwarves and gnomes - Part of what Myself and Gundren were investigating. However, the same orc horde that sacked the mines at where Gundren and I were going - laid waste to the settlement, and Phandalin was abandoned for centuries.
In the last three or four years, hardy settlers from the cities of Neverwinter and Waterdeep have begun the hard work of reclaiming the ruins of Phandalin. It's now a bustling frontier settlement and has grown up on the site of the old town, and is home now to farmers, woodcutters, fur traders, and prospectors drawn by stories of gold and platinum in the foothills of the Sword Mountains. Unfortunately, I've heard rumors that shady types have also gotten a foothold and are taking advantage of the fact that the area has no local lord or authority to chase them off. Part of why I was sent out here before I met Gundren, but I had no luck with either that or my search for Iarno.
(THis is where I will pause..... Partially because Ryner hasn't responded and because Vass has to depart soon, I will need to find replacement players)
Merely accepting without question Salazar's agreement regarding the pilfered teeth, Ander nods in thanks and takes the remnants, murmering an additional quiet prayer to Lathander after his regular morning devotion as the paladin wraps the teeth and places them solemnly in his pouch,'
"... May the poor souls who these belonged to know peaceful rest within your benevolent grace, Morning Lord."
Departing from Yeemik and his people following the funeral, Ander salutes the surprising goblin shaman and wishes him as the remnants of his tribe well, saying,'
"... and if your intentions be peaceful, then you could do worse than travel in the direction of Waterdeep, Yeemik. The Lords Alliance and most of the peoples of that great metropolis are less bloodthirsty than many and even your people may find, if not acceptance, then at least some degree of tolerance there. Best find a way to send the authorities word of your presence and peaceful intentions though, and steer clear of adventuring parties if you can. Fare thee well."
Mounting his steed, Ander listens with only half his attention as Sildar relates further information about Phandalin. The golden haired paladin in the once pristine but now torn and soiled tabard rides quietly beside the wagon, nodding his head agreeably, but his thoughts clearly elsewhere. One thought features prominently and recurringly in the young templars mind as the small party approaches their destination - would Yeemik and his people REALLY be met with tolerance in their travels. By the time the group reaches the towns outskits, Ander had decided. He had helped rescue Sildar and ensure Salazar and Ryner's arrival at the pair's destination. The templar felt that any duty owed here had, at least for the moment, been satisfied. Looking back the way they had come, and then off in the direction of distant Waterdeep, Ander listened to his heart and trusted in Lathander's guidance, realising that for now, his path lay elsewhere. Thinking of the stolen teeth, the blue eyed warrior also committed to taking them to Bishop Gavenray at the Spires of the Morning. His old mentor would help assuage the prickly ethical questions that had bothered Ander ever since his companions had taken items from the dead goblins.
The next morning, after bidding Ryner, Salazar and Sildar farewell and good fortune in dealing with the threat of the mysterious Dark Spider and the ominous spectre of Grol and Cragmaw Castle, Ander mounted up and began his ride back towards his destiny...
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...
(Sorry for lack of response lately, some irl stuff XP luckily it's only temporary)
Ryner after waking up, will check on the wolf he was "taking care off" and if it was awake, attempt to make his first try at taming it, offering some food as incentive.
Animal Handling: 20
As he does this (success or fail), he listens in on the various conversations that take place. For the day, he focuses on recovering from his founds, especially the one around his neck. However when it comes to the discussion of loot distribution, he is very curious about the lion chest, but seeing that Salazar also held interest in it, he let the man who saved their asses have it. Aside from that, he also checks on his blade, making sure it's not damaged, and cleaning it.
When it's time to leave (assuming they still have the cart), he takes up a spot of driving if no one else wanted to do so, otherwise, he'd return to his previous spot in the back.
(Am saddened by that first roll, but also relieved that I don't have to worry about a humanoid wolf girl as a pet XD)
Relieved that Lathander had seen fit to allow him to heal his two allies, Ander gives mental praise to his benevolent deity as the young paladin tries to make the two men as comfortable as possible.
Seeing the injured, unconscious but thankfully still living form of the man who Ander hopes is Ryner and Salazar's employer brought out, the young templar again sets about trying to heal and bring comfort to the clearly mistreated man.
When Yeemik speaks to him with undiminished adulation regarding what should be done next, the barely standing warrior takes a moment to just study the goblin before respoding, trying to get a read on how genuine and lasting this subservient attitude towards Ander may be.
[OOC] ] medicine check for Sildar: 8
insight check to try to read Yeemik: 14
@DM - essentially Ander is trying to work out if it would be safe enough to rest here (short or long), or whether he thinks the goblins' accomodating behaviour could shift suddenly?
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
Sildars condition does not improve.
The shaman is much like Smeagle after getting rid of Gollum. His loyalty is all but assured, barring feeling betrayed or used. It feels safe enough to live here, for a 'while' though not make it a permanent home, for many reasons.
Sildar continues to breathe raggedly.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Unnable to quite put a finger on why, Ander for some reason feels that the goblin's reverence is genuine and that he and his companions would be safe here... for the moment. Looking down at the clearly exhausted form of the rescued prisoner, the golden-haired young warrior nods his head upon reaching a decision and says to Yeemik,'
"Thank you, Yeemik. You serve well and have pleased me... so far. We will rest here for some time. Bring blankets and make my companinions as comfortable as possible. When they awake they will need food. Human food that is.
While your fellow goblins do this, you will tell me of your tribe and these caves - Why are you here? Are there other creatures that share these tunnels with you? Are there any other dangers or treasures here? Do you and your people prey on those who pass by? If given your freedom, what would you do?"
[OOC] persuasion check if needed (rolled with advantage because of his god-like status, lol. Ignore the second number if not applicable) to get Yeemik to tell him all: 25
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
Yeemik looks down, clearly thinking of how best to follow the command. After a moment, he says in [Goblin] Emmenez les nouveaux humains dans les enclos d'alimentation. Mettez-les près du feu. Ou le soleil va nous tuer tous comme il l'a fait Klarg. The goblins complying, carrying Ryner and Salazar to the feeding pens, and laying them by the cookfires. Salazar and Ryner were surrounded by corpses of various sexes, races, and worst of all.. ages. Sometimes it was just limbs, other-times it was entire bodies, but usually, it was just bones. But the Goblins did not harm the new people, for fear of the sun, in human form, slaying them all.
After this, the goblins warily shuffled about the cave, so used to needing to aggress any new threat, or face Klargs wrath, this was a new feeling to most of them, who were young enough to have never seen their last tribe.
Over the next six hours, Yeemik explains to Anders the following, though in much more expansive terms. In whatever location Anders chose.
"Human Food" in stolen stuff. In Klargs den. Place you found Klarg. Other side of cave from feeding den. Our tribe lived in cave here. Hunted deer, rabbits. You know. We minded own business, know that outer world hate us. Think we and our language vile. Think we evil, and hate us with no justi-- jusfa? not sure word. But hate for no reason we know.
Other than Klarg and our dogs, we only thing here. You already kill Klarg, so now with all but one of dog dead, we all that left. Danger? Water trap, Klarg teach us how make. Have two pools. Only treasure what we stole. Lots of, but all heavy. Hard to carry very far without help. We no uh.. attack people until Klarg come. Klarg came here, and took over. Make us work for him or die. We tried fight, but he killed half us all. We learn not to defy.... Klarg sent by other. Klarg has master. Order us to capture Dwarf and Human for the master.
They have important information. We no know what is. But they only wanted Gundren, tell us to keep Sildar for food. We were going to eat tomorrow. Klarg answer to King Grol, cheif of Klarg, so cheif of Cragmaw tribe. It uh... That way he says, pointing 'roughly' Northeast Many miles, long walk to Cragmaw Castle, in big giant huge forest. Klarg got info from uh... Dark spider? He pay Klarg to watch out for Gundren, Sildar. Had whole tribe ambush at once. We already send Dwarf and his gear, and Human gear to Cragmaw Castle. That all Yeemik know.
Any further information will have to be acquired by Sildar, who is still in critical condition.
And what we do now? we no know. Now that humans know where we live, they will come kill us. So We will die free, Yeemik guess.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
It is around the two hour mark that Salazar awakens, groaning and slowly pushing himself to a seated position. Though dimmer, his eyes remain wholly subsumed in a dim blue light not unlike a tiefling. Yet seeming unaware of this, he scans the area trying to make sense of it all. "First blindness, then the deep... hn... Both well deserved." He half-muttered as the macabre scene of scattered limbs are the first to resolve in his vision.
Before despair can truly settle in however, the cleric probably hears the chatter or even sees out of the corner of his eyes movement. Expecting the face of fiends, he turns with an expression of defiance on his face; only to falter upon taking in the rest of the scene. Wide-eyed, he just stared, frozen in place, but listening to whatever explanations are given in response. Of his own change he says nothing. Neither is there an immediate response to any challenge about his previous actions. Rather upon either being directed or seeing Sildar and Ryner in varying degrees of harm, he silently chews on his lips for a moment before sighing and reaching out to the latter(Ryner).
From where his hand touched forehead, a warm white light flickers briefly into being and sinks into his body, restoring the smallest measure of vitality(Healing Hands-1HP restored). As soon as the divine essence leaves Salazar he swoons, but thankfully is able to at least brace himself on the ground with another hand. When next he opens his eyes to the world, they have returned to plain old greenish-gold human eyes. Salazar drags himself over to Sildar to see the extent of his injuries, tearing off far cleaner pieces of his own garb(at least some of the inner robes untouched by blood yet) to start resetting bandages, and cleaning wounds by waterskin.
The whole time he moves and hums something in an otherwordly tongue as if in trance. Though those that understood the language of the higher planes(celestial) would catch a few lyrics involving 'Mother's embrace' and 'restful slumber'. The rest... the rest was either too garbled from being sung too low, or far too archaic for even someone learned in the language. Either way, while at work, and even after the fact for a time, Salazar is mostly despondent unless shaken from his stupor.
Medicine: (3)46.
(Assuming it is even possible.)
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Listening patiently and even with a degree of empathy at Yeemik's tale of subjugation and forced servitude, and then to hear the creature's worried tone as it questions its small tribe's fate, Ander eventually says with more conviction than he feels on the matter,'
"You were slave's to Klarg's will and the fell deeds you did you performed under duress and the bugbear's threatening command. This is clear. Before Klarg you were free and did not harm the other free peoples of this land. Now that Klarg is gone, you may return to that way of life. However, as you say, others may not see it this way and may come for you and your people. There are other caves, tunnels and caverns, in other regions, Yeemik. I would advise you to leave this place and travel far away to find a new home. Not towards this Cragmire Castle that you speak of, lest you find further enslavement at the hands of Grol who calls himself king.
The choice is yours, however. I thank you for your honesty and the information, Yeemik. You are no enemy of mine or my allies. Once my companions and I are well enough to travel, we will leave you to the fate that you choose for yourselves. I hope that you choose wisely and will pray that Lathander's grace keep you from darkness.
Standing up, Ander considers all that Yeemik told him of Sildar, Gundren and his fate, and of this Cragmaw Castle and goblin King Grol. Moving to again do what he can for the rescued Sildar before checking on the well-being of his allies before lying down to rest beside them. As he closes his eyes, the weary paladin silently committs to searching this entire complex carefully for further clues about the potential menace of a goblin leader strong enough to call himself king.
[OOC] As there is no external threat, can I just take 10 on my medicine check or use my passive score to help Sildar? If not, see the check below.
medicine check: 5
*Bye-bye, Sildar. On his gravestone 'Slain by that which saved him. Beware good intentions. Get proper medical attention!' :o
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
(i'll wait another hour for Ryner to chime in)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Sildar had been brought away from the brink, thanks to Salazars attentions earlier. So Sildar was not negatively affected by Anders clumsy hands.. perhaps he should have taken off his gauntlets?
Regardless, Sildar stirs, waking up eventually. The Long Rest, and conversation with Yeemik all passing eventually - allowing Sildar to actually heal as per long rest rules. Minus a few due to his wounds. 16 HP. Though still naked, and ..blushing slightly. He stared at the goblisn as they passed, not trusting them even half as much as Anders was, but in no position to argue with his saviors. Sighing, Sildar says I hate to Impose.. But would none of you happen to have a spare weapon? A longsword is preferred sicne none of oyu look capable of Weilding a Greatsword.. No offense meant. Or a shield? some spare armor? Or .. clothing... I can help you in this fight against Klarg.. It will bring me some satisfaction now that I know he is the primary puppet of another master that led to our defeat... But even a great warrior such as myself, can only do so much against a goblin hoards ambush. *sigh* Anyways, ..Thank you all for coming when you did. I did not expect to see your faces of all people, though I don't recognize this warrior.. what happened to the giant? Where did he go? Did he abandon his task?
Occassional Dungeon Master.
"I am sorry... Sildar, is it? My name is Ander and you need not thank me for your rescue. It was my duty under the Morning Lord's watchful gaze to assist Ryner and Salazar in coming to your aid, though I was happy to do so.
Now that we are all rested, I suggest that we examine the rest of these caves. Hopefully we will find some armour or a weapon at least that will sit well in your hands. I can provide you with a javelin in the interim, though I have been assured that there are no other creatures or foes within these caverns.
Klarg himself is dead, though from what I have been told, it appears that he was allied with someone known as the Dark Spider and served someone named Grol who styles himself King of the goblins. Grol apparently rules from a place called Cragmaw Castle. I'm sorry to say that your companion Gundren was sent there, along with your posessions. Does any of this mean anything to you?
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
I see... So Klarg has already fallen, and I was conscious enough to hear your deal with the Goblins... I'll have some people keep an eye on them, just to be sure, but .. it seems the danger is already gone..... And I suppose you're right.. As for this Dark Spider fellow... I wonder if he has anything to do with Iarno.... I've been on a quest to locate him ever since he went missing.. Perhaps... after we get to town I could tell you more, and you folks can help me. I will give you 50 gold each if you can provide anythign solid. But that still leaves Gundrens fate.. But .. atleast we know where to look. Gundren is stout.. He will waste as much of their time as he can manage. We should have some leeway after gettign to Phandalin.... We can't let the discovery of a century fade away because of an ambush or invonvenience.
By the way, i don't think I mentioned this before, but I am a member of the Lords Alliance. If you help me with these two things, If any of you desire to join as recruits.. I can.. arrange it. But that is for later. Perhaps this dark spider and my Iarno have somehting in common and we can use those leads to find yet more
(Since I'm about to pass the hell out, And since theres no other enemies, and the goblins won't betray (and they were moved by your words!) I will list the loot in Klargs Den.)
The wolf is conscious in the kennel area, but napping.
1 x Blue Chest with a Lion emblazoned on a shield for a symbol.
9 x Arrows
19 x Bolts
2 x Daggers
2 x Longswords
13 x Rations
2 X Potions of Healing
3 x Gold teeth
1x Maul (Klargs, must be wielded 2 handed by a medium humanoid. Same stats of 2d8)
-1 Jewels worth 15 GP each.
32 and no magical or uncommon items.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Leaving the others to their own devices, and frankly to tired to expunge his wonder in either story or goblins situation, Salazar rested fitfully when it did come to him. At Sildar's later request, he offers his outer cloak freely, and even his buckler(shield). "He's dead. Slain by unfortunate timing, and errant magics." He admits, giving Ryner a sidelong glance before shaking his head solemnly. More than that he was reluctant to speak on for a time. Of Sildar's question about joining the Alliance, Salazar promptly shakes his head. "While there are certain... circumstances that has led me upon this path, I do no wish to further embrace what I feel such a joining implies. I am still a scholar, and would prefer to remain as much... current situation not withstanding."
Later, and after moving on to Klarg's den...
There is a moment of surprise on his face when the goblins actually agree to giving away the misbegotten goods. But wisely choosing not to look a gift horse in the mouth, Salazar thanks the goblins in general in thanks. "There are some things about what happen I still do not fully understand. But if you are to truly leave this place before this Grol or any subordinates come here, it may be best you keep the rations, bolts, arrows, and daggers. If nothing else, it will rob Grol of any further gains from this place." He smiles faintly.
"We... I should tend to the dead as well. Some kind of funeral pyre outside, perhaps. If you can assist me, Yeemick. Or at least your tribesman as far as taking them outside for the process?" He asks, and while the shaman deliberated, Salazar turns to the others. "Well, there's a longsword for you. And a chest too we try finish delivering back in Phandalin." He cants his head. "At least I think it was bound for there given the ambush route." He comments on, and if noone objects either takes a potion for himself or hands them both off to Ryner. Of the gold teeth, the scholar knows not what make of them if seen by him. But short of Ryner pocketing them, he does so himself to figure out what to do with them later.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
(Uhh Ryner?)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Ander nods his head at Sildar's words about the Lord's Alliance and this missing Iarno, wondering at what the rulers of his home city had hoped to accomplish by sending an agent out here. The paladin grimaces initially at Salazar's giving the goblins weapons, but realises that such is probably for the best. If the creatures had meant harm, the almost certainly wouldn't be acting so cooperative now. Whatever happens in the future, Yeemik and his people at least deserve a chance to start over, though the young templar know's that many in his order might not agree.
The holy knight is completely disinterested in the loot beyond securing the chest for return to Phanadin. At Salazar's mention of a funeral, Ander agrees wholeheartedly and will assist Yeemik in building a pyre or otherwise preparing the bodies for their last rites. Taking the grissly task of sorting the dismembered and decomposed human bodies for burial, the conscientious paladin will search thoroughly in the hope of finding any identifying items or indicators that might allow him to provide closure to the kin of the dead.
Seeing Salazar showing Ryner the gold teeth, which were almost certainly looted from the bodies of slain victims of Klarg and his minnions, Ander steps forward, as he wipes the sweat from his brow after the work preparing the bodies for their last rites, to say,'
"As it is unlikely that we will be able to identify who those belonged to, we should consider donating them to a temple in Phandalin. In that way, not only do we avoid the taint of profiting from another's untimely death, but we may provide aid and solace to those who require succour or who provide such in times of need."
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
(Will post soon.. but i'm wondering what happened to Ryner.. shows he was active 7 hours ago... but hasn't posted anywhere sicne 2 days ago)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
The goblins help insofar as to take all corpses, and help pile them up, near enough to the stream in case the now very dry area from alighting in flames once more. Eventually, the pile was stacked, just slightly higher than waist high, and someone, with tinder and torch, lit the corpses ablaze. It wasn't a proper funeral pyre, but, it was the best that could be done, given the circumstances. The fire blazes, and the nauseating scent of humans, goblins, and bugbear intermingling. Though the goblins didn't seem to mind it as much. Eventually black smoke filled the sky as the sun rose to it's zenith. The temperature was perfect between the heat of the fire itself, and the chilled winter air.
The party collects the stolen goods. Sildar manages to find a pair of common clothing to hide his shame, though even then, it's ragged. Making the once fierce, fiery fighter look like a fallen noble on hard times. The goblins take their daggers, and look longingly at the cave that had been their ancestral home.... before shuffling off into the mountains. The goblins head south, back towards the ambush point, though it seems unlikely they intend to go back to their forced ways.
Now realizing there's nothing left here at the cave, the party should probably move onto Phandalin. Sildar says he wishes to talk more, once they reach Phandalin and he can get a proper set of gear again. Saying that he'd meet you all at the local Tavern-Inn called the Stonehill Inn. But that the group needed to finish taking the shipment to Phandalin, that was in the cart that had been left to the side of the road almost a full day ago.
As you all think on this, making your way to the cart, you feel refreshed, more experienced.
The entire party gains: 477 EXP. (I normally dont award this until resting but meh)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(Eh, we sort of rested earlier while waiting on Sildar to recover.)
"I cannot say I am particular fond of the idea of selling these particular sort of items myself. Albeit admittedly, moreso due to the process that it will no doubt entail then any misgivings of taint." Salazar admits frankly before giving an apologetic look. "Besides by that same logic, we -- N-no. Nope. I will not go down that route. Here. For make sure we got to see another sunrise, it should be up to you to decide what to do with these." Salazar offers the teeth to Anders before they ultimately set out to Phandalin.
Once the group were all packed up, Oxen fed and watered, and chest secured along with the rest, Salazar opts to take the reigns. He lost himself in the monotonous task. A thankful reprieve that helped him sort out the experience. Despite managing to uphold a stalwart expression in the wake of so much death and painful experience, tears trail down the side of his face after while as the memories play themselves back. And yet, there isn't a peep out of him.
"Is there more you can tell us about Phandalin, Sir Sildar, along the way?"
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
(And I forgot to give it to you then mehmen. Don't make me come to your house and slap you :| I know where you live)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Sildar holds his chin with his palm in a fist, as he decides how best to go about explaining.... Well...
The frontier town of Phandalin is built on the ruins of a much older settlement. Hundreds of years ago, the old Phandalin was a thriving human town whose people were firmly allied with the dwarves and gnomes - Part of what Myself and Gundren were investigating. However, the same orc horde that sacked the mines at where Gundren and I were going - laid waste to the settlement, and Phandalin was abandoned for centuries.
In the last three or four years, hardy settlers from the cities of Neverwinter and Waterdeep have begun the hard work of reclaiming the ruins of Phandalin. It's now a bustling frontier settlement and has grown up on the site of the old town, and is home now to farmers, woodcutters, fur traders, and prospectors drawn by stories of gold and platinum in the foothills of the Sword Mountains. Unfortunately, I've heard rumors that shady types have also gotten a foothold and are taking advantage of the fact that the area has no local lord or authority to chase them off. Part of why I was sent out here before I met Gundren, but I had no luck with either that or my search for Iarno.
(THis is where I will pause..... Partially because Ryner hasn't responded and because Vass has to depart soon, I will need to find replacement players)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Merely accepting without question Salazar's agreement regarding the pilfered teeth, Ander nods in thanks and takes the remnants, murmering an additional quiet prayer to Lathander after his regular morning devotion as the paladin wraps the teeth and places them solemnly in his pouch,'
"... May the poor souls who these belonged to know peaceful rest within your benevolent grace, Morning Lord."
Departing from Yeemik and his people following the funeral, Ander salutes the surprising goblin shaman and wishes him as the remnants of his tribe well, saying,'
"... and if your intentions be peaceful, then you could do worse than travel in the direction of Waterdeep, Yeemik. The Lords Alliance and most of the peoples of that great metropolis are less bloodthirsty than many and even your people may find, if not acceptance, then at least some degree of tolerance there. Best find a way to send the authorities word of your presence and peaceful intentions though, and steer clear of adventuring parties if you can. Fare thee well."
Mounting his steed, Ander listens with only half his attention as Sildar relates further information about Phandalin. The golden haired paladin in the once pristine but now torn and soiled tabard rides quietly beside the wagon, nodding his head agreeably, but his thoughts clearly elsewhere. One thought features prominently and recurringly in the young templars mind as the small party approaches their destination - would Yeemik and his people REALLY be met with tolerance in their travels. By the time the group reaches the towns outskits, Ander had decided. He had helped rescue Sildar and ensure Salazar and Ryner's arrival at the pair's destination. The templar felt that any duty owed here had, at least for the moment, been satisfied. Looking back the way they had come, and then off in the direction of distant Waterdeep, Ander listened to his heart and trusted in Lathander's guidance, realising that for now, his path lay elsewhere. Thinking of the stolen teeth, the blue eyed warrior also committed to taking them to Bishop Gavenray at the Spires of the Morning. His old mentor would help assuage the prickly ethical questions that had bothered Ander ever since his companions had taken items from the dead goblins.
The next morning, after bidding Ryner, Salazar and Sildar farewell and good fortune in dealing with the threat of the mysterious Dark Spider and the ominous spectre of Grol and Cragmaw Castle, Ander mounted up and began his ride back towards his destiny...
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...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
(Sorry for lack of response lately, some irl stuff XP luckily it's only temporary)
Ryner after waking up, will check on the wolf he was "taking care off" and if it was awake, attempt to make his first try at taming it, offering some food as incentive.
Animal Handling: 20
As he does this (success or fail), he listens in on the various conversations that take place. For the day, he focuses on recovering from his founds, especially the one around his neck. However when it comes to the discussion of loot distribution, he is very curious about the lion chest, but seeing that Salazar also held interest in it, he let the man who saved their asses have it. Aside from that, he also checks on his blade, making sure it's not damaged, and cleaning it.
When it's time to leave (assuming they still have the cart), he takes up a spot of driving if no one else wanted to do so, otherwise, he'd return to his previous spot in the back.
(Am saddened by that first roll, but also relieved that I don't have to worry about a humanoid wolf girl as a pet XD)