Two of the passages lead to more of the some same (crates, bags, ect) ANd one passage lead to a large natural chimney

Anything of interest in any of the crates or sacks? Also, how climbable does the chimney appear to be?

Inside the crates and sacks is mainly flour, tools and other basic goods. The rocks on the chimney are jagged, but with only a few good handholds. Possibly are a strong person could climb it.

(honk!)

OK, going back to the other paths, is there any sign of recent use on the gated exit?

Make an investigation check.

Investigation: 14

Tracks can be seen, with many orc steps and human footprints.

Can Elinar tell how recent, or if there's any sign of struggle, or being dragged, or anything like that?

Some seem to show some struggle, others not.

OK, I think he's checked all of the passages (if he hasn't, he'll check them too) and will head back to the others and report what he's seen.

 All passages have been checked.

Elinar heads back to where he left the others, removing his alarm system as he goes. He describes the various passages he found. "So I think it's obvious which one they're using the most -- the only one they've bothered to light. But we should keep an eye on the exit as well, especially since there are signs of struggle." He'll also mention the chimney as a possible exit, but with a doubtful tone that indicates he's not sure that everyone here could make use of it. "Best to leave it for an emergency. And possibly a second reason to watch our backs."

Richter rubs his chin, pretending at least to carefully weigh the options. "So in other words, this area is the closest thing we have for taking a short rest then?" He asked. "Well, this is a right pickle isn't it? **** it. Can't have scrambled eggs and bacon without cracking a few eggs. I'll need to keep one of these for emergencies, but it should be enough."  He clears his throat then began chanting some hymn to magically heal a couple of people.

"There. Now let's see about the one involving a struggle first! Tymora favors the bold after all, but certainly doesn't reward idiots. So with any luck, the ****ers will be right and quite bruised up. Easy pickings. And if not, well like this will get in easier before we crack a few egg shells now will it?"

Healing Word at 1st for Lurrinthis: 5.
Healing Word at 1st for Geist: 4.

A bit sore, but better than before, Geist makes for where Elinar came from "I intend to give what I got, and twice-fold." he snorts out smoke so that those with low INT can get the meaning (fire-breath is gonna be used, damn the consequences)

Zach considers Richter's words, "It mayhaps be best that we rest now.  As you say this would be the best place."  The corners of his lips curl up into a smile, "Besides, it could be that I have a solution for ensuring we are not caught unawares."

He takes a deep breath and continues, "In my younger days, whilst studying under the priests of Helm, I learnt of a way to create a magical, proximity based, alarm system of sorts.  Should any intruders step through the passageway it would create a loud clamour, instantly notifying us of imminent danger."

"Should we wish to rest before continuing on I could start making preparations.  What do you think?"

"yeah, still need to patch up." Geist affirms, then adds "got a trap I can set at the entrance if you want."

"I can reset my alarm as well on any of the exits, if needed," Elinary agrees.

Lurrinthis settles down onto the ground and starts bandaging his wound. ((short rest)). To Richter as he starts casting- "Save your magic friend, I think we are going to need that later."

Short rest HP recovered- 12

Richter rolls his eyes after hearing all the back and forth, but refrained from wasting his magic. "Do what you will then." Is all he has to add before finding as dark a corner as possible on their ledge to sit back. The strange thing is that he oddly he keeps fidgeting or sitting at odd angles, and never really allows himself at least to take a short rest. Not that he needed one of yet.

Whenever the others are ready to go again, the Aasimar mutely follows after the others, though a somewhat sour look on his face.

(To Velo: Do we successful get a short rest?)