End of Ages (DnD 4e)

[Occult Priest]

Korwin Veros looked out over the camp and sighed in disappointment. There were so many sites to search, and so little time to search them.

It had taken two weeks of struggling through the Groaming Woods to reach the valley. Every tree and rock seemed to plot against them, making the march that should have taken a week take twice the time. Now the weather was promising an early snow.

There just wasn't enough time.

"Lorc." Korwin said, turning to his Tiefling assistant. "Get the teams assembled. We need them to start searching as soon as possible."

***********************

It has been a hard, if quiet journey to this forgotten valley. Not so much as a wolf troubled the expedition, let alone the legendary dangers that the people of Milford loved to talk about. Yet there is a sense of relief in the other members of the expedition, now that they are sleeping under the stars, instead of the Groaming's thick canopy.

The valley itself was once the site of a massive lake, one that has long dried up. Yet all around the valley are overgrown ruins of old forts, razed by gnolls but a century ago.

As the expedition prepares the watch and to bed down for the night, its leader, the half-elf Korwin Veros and his assistant Lorc call for attention.

"We have lost far too much time on the road." Veros announces. "And we have not a moment to waste. You are to be broken into teams and given your duties. And as an encouragement to move quickly, the first team to complete their task will receive one thousand pieces of gold to share amongst themselves."

With that, Lorc steps forward and begins to read names from the roster.

"The first team will consist of Terridus Roth, Rolondo Garret, Galin Hammerhand, Sgran Firemantle, Daamatka the tiefling, Sariel the eladrin, and the warforged known as Watchtower. Please congregate over by the mess tent, and someone will be over in a minute to give you your order."

[McMindflayer]

Always "the Tiefling". Never just my name. Daamatka thought as he walked toward the mess tent at a slow pace. He was a bit out of shape, luckily he had a caravan to ride in most of the time. The few times he walked were at a slow pace so he could keep up. Luckily his newfound powers didn't rely on physical power.

He arrived in short time to the mess tent and looked at his companions. He eyed the warforged critically, recalling only a couple things about them. He remained silent, waiting for whoever was supposed to give them orders to show up.




(Arcana Check [roll0]
I probably have a higher bonus, but I can't pull up my character sheet at the moment. I'm checking my knowledge of Warforged... assumed Arcana is the right one?)

[Terraoblivion]

Hearing her name called out she quickly got up and out of her tent, looking over the caravan. This was the entourage of a lord in this world, how dreadfully dull, not to mention the quaintness of them specifying her species. Like there were countless other Sariels of other races out there.

As she thought about these things she weaved through the crowds, seemingly unimpeded by the movement of the people around her as she used the skills her dance lessons had taught her. Getting close to the tent she decided to make her entrance more dramatic as she stepped out of reality to reappear next to the tiefling and the walking suit of armor.

[HardboiledJJ]

Within the mess tent, Watchtower poured water for member's of Korwin's weary company as the announcement was made.

"As Pelor sees to nourish the fields with his cleansing rains, so too let this water nourish your bodies with his blessing."

Upon hearing his name, he gave a friendly nod and stood attention outside the tent-the very image of a sentinel. A slight bow (albeit stiff and mechanical) was given to each member as they approached.

Good day friends. I find myself blessed to be in your company."

[Kabump]

Rolondo was obviously disappointed to be out of the woods with not so much as a GLIMPSE of a single ghost. "Haunted, haunted?" He wondered aloud as he was drawing a ghost in the dirt. "I wanted some ghost stories!" It had been an uneventful trip through the woods for Rolondo. He was ever alert for the things of rumors he had heard about in the woods, but nothing ever showed. Deep down inside, he was glad to have a safe journey, but on the surface of his mind, he was kind of hoping they would find SOMETHING. Besides, he was starting to get bored!

He was brought out of his artistic expression by the sound of someone calling his name, and telling him to report to the mess tent. Upon arrival and seeing his teammates, Rolondo couldnt help but notice the large metal man standing outside the tent. "Oh! Is that one of those warfixed? Or was it warforged?" he thought to himself. A sly grin slowly crossed his face. Things were starting to get interesting!

[Occult Priest]

(Actually McMindflayer, Warforged are Natural Humanoids, meaning they are covered under the Nature skill. But an Arcana roll that high gets you the following.)

Daamatka has heard of warforged before, but this is the first time he's seen one. Its far too independent to be a typical animate, and it's creation would have required a tremendous expenditure of power and resources.

(By the way everyone, I've created an Out of Character (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=4453012#post4453012) thread. For right now though I'll give everyone a little time to get introduced.)

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn hefts himself to his feet, stowing his sword over his right shoulder, his pack over his left. He glances around, looking over the heads of those standing near him and begins walking to the mess tent.

Letting his size clear a path through the crowds, Sgarn spots the gathering of most unusual looking people and makes his way there. He stops near the others and stoops down letting his pack slide to the ground, giving each an appraising look. One corner of his mouth turns up, revealing long fangs. "A tiefling, an eladrin, a warforged, a halfling, and a dragonborn. There's a joke in here somewhere." Sgarn straightens back up, again looking over the heads of the crowds. "Two more yet."

[ArmorArmadillo]

A man approaches who is tall for an eladrin, but still very lean. He has short, rough auburn hair and green eyes. He wears faded green and silver chain armor, with the symbol of a raven holding an orchid in its beak emblazoned on the chest. He wears a black cloak adorned with tiered raven feathers, and if you check the back you find that it bears the insignia of the Raven Queen.

On his right side is the loosely resting scabbard of a longsword, and hanging next to it is a small pouch.

He nods slightly as he approaches. "Greetings, gentlemen. You seem like a competent lot, I'm awaiting a productive expedition."

[Terraoblivion]

"Obviously there is a joke in here, i just hope it is good. Though it probably will be seeing as how this group is entirely more interesting than most i have seen so far. Could surprise though." She grins slightly as she looks over the gathered group, taking note of their various strange outfits and species. "As the announcement for us to gather here surely made you realize, my name is Sariel. I'm an eladrin from the great freehold of Cloudrest. I hope i can be of your service, from my travels here it seems like this place could need her." Her statement is ended with an elaborate, sweeping bow done just enough that it is hard to tell if it was genuinely felt or just some sort of joke.

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn turns his attention to Sariel, fixing her in his red-eyed gaze. He tilts his head to the side ever so slightly, watching her performance. "Well met, Lady Sari. I am Sgarn Firemantle." Sgarn bows a plain half-bow, never so low that Sariel leaves his field of vision. "It is my own hope that we work well together."

[Kabump]

Rolondo lets out a little chuckle as he watches his teammates bowing to each other. "Well I was just going to say hello, but it seems that it won't be enough!" Rolondo dips into a playfully mocking bow, and comes up with a large grin on his face."My name is Rolondo, and I am pleased to meet your acquaintances." Once again he lets out a little chuckle and walks over to the large dragonborn. "And might I say that you are quite the large one! How's the weather up there? I'm kidding friend, kidding!" He smiles, does a quick jump and pats the dragonborn on the back, landing on the ground in a sitting position quite pleased with his spectacular introduction.

[HardboiledJJ]

"I should hope it is a good joke. I am most curious what cultural viewpoint it would originate from. Due to the diversity of our party, one might conclude it would be Human, as they are not represented."

Watchtower rambles a few more seconds dissecting the potential joke before stopping himself.

"Ah, very sorry. My desire to understand humor is often in direct contrast to its enjoyment. I am Watchtower, instrument to the will of Pelor.

Watchtower turns to Sgarn, and though stonefaced, it is quite obvious he is in good spirits.

Ah! Good sir, I see you bear the visage of Bahamut! A fine and noble God to guide the stalwart. If you would be willing, time allowing, I would be most interested in discussing his teachings.

[McMindflayer]

"I guess since everyone else is introducing themselves, I should say something eh?" Said Daamatka, "Now, I am kind of old to be doing any fancy bowing and flourishes like you all. But my name is Daamatka." He had his hands on a walking stick he had used for the journey here. Not much use in a battle, but he already had that covered. He looked among them all. He had seen some of the races before, most came into his shops he's held over time. But Watchtower. He hasn't seen a warforged at all. They apperntly didn't frequent his places. He walked up to the being. "You are a most interesting specimen, if I must say so. But You aren't a specimen are you. But a person. Hmm." He spoke with enthuisasm and a spark in his eyes. He truly was interested in Watchtower. "I should wish to speak with you at a later time about you. But now is not exactly the time for such things is it? Hmm." He stroked his white goatee slowly.

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn gives a blank look at the little rabbit sitting beside him, then turns his attention to Watchtower and Daamatka. "Yes, I do bear Bahamut's colors. I am dedicated to his holy service. That is the crest of Pelor you bear is it not? I would be most pleased in discussing the high dragon with you, Watchtower." The 'tcht' in watchtower coming out more as 'tsht'. "Then you would be a scholar Master Daamatka?"

[Terraoblivion]

Sariel grinned slightly at the comments of the dragonborn as she looked over the other two speakers. "Seems like he is indeed. Though what a scholar would want to head into the wilderness for is beyond me, entertainment perhaps? If he managed to get hired he will probably be useful, though. A wizard perhaps?" Her hand brushes the gilded hilt of her sword. "My father was disappointed when i didn't choose to pursue those studies. Family honor and the like." As she speaks she lets out a little giggle, though one with an undercurrent of something that isn't enjoyment. "I guess i gave him more to be disappointed in than that, so who cares?"

[McMindflayer]

"Not officially no. Not a Scholar. I am much to old to be learning about the many things they teach in those newfound colleges and such. I am but a humble tradesman. I just interest myself in intellectual curiosities. Magic and the like, you know." He said with a simple smile. "And Mr. Watchtower here, is one such magical curiosity.

He turns his attention the Eladrin "My reasoning to come here is my own. But if you must know, I felt obligated to help out others in my community. If I feel that the community needs help, I will. And I did feel so." He said, and decided to keep quiet on the part of father's and their wishes. Some people hated their parents up until someone spoke poorly of said parents. Best not to anger someone of such mystical background.

[Kabump]

Rolondo hops up to his feet and walks over to join the others conversing. "I came to see the ghosts in the forest personally." He says, a hint of disappointment in his voice. He pauses for a moment, and a gleam shines in his eyes before he speaks again. "But the 1000 gold reward for doing whatever it is they want us do is seems to be just as good, don't you agree? I wonder what I'll buy first... For that matter, I wonder what is is we are supposed to do?" Distracted by the conflicting thoughts, Rolondo appears lost in thought, his mind switching between dreams of gold and wondering what exciting adventures await. A few moments later, he looks back up. "Im sure whatever it is we should be able to handle it! You guys look like some strong people." Rolondo turns and points at Daamatka. "Even gramps over there looks capable! Not to mention intimidating! He lets out a chuckle, and habitually strokes his sideburns. Gazing over the gathered party, Rolondo cant help but think that a small guy like is lucky to be paired up with such large targets. Hes learned in the past thats usually enough for him to not be noticed.

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

"Ghosts, Rolondo?" Terridus leans forward, his face and tone solid. "What exactly is your interest in such matters?"

[Occult Priest]

The camp is abuzz with men and women in preparation for their tasks as you get to know your companions. After a time, Lorc breaks away from his task and walks over to you.

"Well, now that you're all assembled..." He pauses, sweeping the camp with his blood red eyes.

"Where's Hammerhand?" He asks, calling out to one of the guards to find the missing dwarf. Shaking his head, he pulls a few notes from his pocket and turns back to the task at hand.

"There's an old fortress at the crest of the valley, called Alor's Watch. It fell to the Gnollish Hordes along with the rest of the Nearth Empire over a hundred years ago. The fort was relatively unimportant from a strategic point of view, but we have reason to believe that it might have been used to hide the activities of a cabal of wizards."

Lorc hands Daamatka a diagram of a jaggedly carved tablet covered in a winding, flowing script that you cannot read.

"This is what you are looking for. It is a piece black basalt covered in writing similar to that in the diagram. It will likely be kept in a hidden vault in the lowest part of the fort. You may keep any other objects that you find as payment in addition to the bonus that is available if you find it quickly enough."

"The fort itself is two days travel up the mountain. If there are no questions, I suggest you get moving as soon as possible."

[Terraoblivion]

Sariel looked over Daamatka's shoulder to see the writing. This was kinda interesting actually, more so than the mud that made up the majority of this world at least.

"I have a question that i think is rather important. Where exactly in the mountains are we supposed to look? A two-day walk can get us to a variety of places. Also any idea what we may encounter? The proximity of this forest to the Feywild can make it dangerous, this world is much more peaceful and non-threatening than my home so i can assure you that we would be in danger should we stumble into the world i am from. Just a friendly warning to all of you. I would not tangle with most of the creatures that live there." As she say the last line her hand brushes over the hilt of her sword again as if to reinforce what she is saying or perhaps reassure her that it is still there should she meet anything like that.

[Occult Priest]

Lorc hands Sariel another piece of paper, this one with a map of the valley drawn on it. The map seems rather hastily drawn but notes the location of the base camp in the center of the valley, the path through the forest back to Milford to the northeast, and a rough marking of the fortress to the north east.

"The road that used to supply the Watch has been reclaimed by the forest, but you may be able to find enough of its remains to follow up to the fort if you choose to look for it." Lorc explained. "Another approach would be to climb to the crest of the valley and search along it until you find the ruins.

"As for the Feywild, I'm afraid that I don't know how close to it's borders the fort or its surroundings lie. It was far off in the days of the Empire, but Feywild's have never been known for being predictable. I'm sure that you will be able to deal with anything that attempts to stop you."

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn gives the diagram a cursory glance, then leans back a little and folds his arms. These sorts of ancient writings and bits of history are really better left to those who spend their time in study, certainly not Sgarn's forte. Even still, what might it be and what purpose might it serve?
"What sort of provisions and supplies will we have access to for this? How large is this stone with swirls of yours, and aside from 'don't smash it' any special handling instructions?"
Sgarn scratches under his chin with a taloned finger.
"It fairly well goes without saying we'll find something unsavory while we're out, why else all the sell swords, but is there something or someone in particular we should be wary of, especially after we have your stone?"

[Kabump]

"What exactly is the thing anyway? And whats with all the fancy letters?" Rolondo was intrigued by this mysterious stone, but what really caught his attention was the mention of keeping anything they may find in the keep. 1000 gold AND free stuff? This was almost to good to be true! "Eh no matter, I'm sure you guys have your reasons for wanting this swirly stone. I say we get going, we certainly aren't gonna get our 1000 gold bonus just standing here! I don't want anyone else finding it before us, assuming its even still there! Hey! What if it ISN'T still there? Thats certainly not our fault right? We still get to keep our discoveries right? I sure hope so! Anyway, I'm ready to go if you guys are!" Rolondo does a quick check of his equipment to make sure everything is there, then stretches in anticipation of the upcoming trek. Treasure was infinitely more interesting than stupid ghosts ANY day.

[Occult Priest]

"The stone itself is about the size of a fist and should be safe to handle." Lorc said before indicating a tent with a number of sellswords gathered around it. "As for provisions, each of you will be provided with whatever materials the quartermaster can spare, but I doubt he will be able to provide much more than standard 'adventuring' fare.

"The reason we have taken on so many sellswords was due to the Groaming Woods reputation for hidden dangers, as well as the need for bodies to do the actual labor. We don't have the funds or supplies to spend the next year turning over every rock after all."

Looking down at the halfling, he continued.

"I have been told that the tablet has historic value to the faithful of Ioun, which is why they are financing this expedition. If it isn't there, then you may keep whatever you find but will not receive the bonus.

"Now, if you'll excuse me, I have other groups to speak with. Hopefully someone will send Hammerhand your way. Whatever happens, try to be back within one week. That's when we're heading back to Milford, and we don't have the time to go searching for you."

With that, Lorc walked off and disappeared into the crowd.

OOC: If you want to get any equipment, the quartermaster has a few adventuring packs left, but is keeping them down to one per person. If you already have one, he isn't going to let it go.

[Kabump]

After hearing Lorc mention the quartermaster, Rolondo decides that perhaps he isn't as prepared as he thinks he is. "Actually, Im going to see if the quartermaster has anything interesting. Ill be right back!" With that he breaks off into a sprint to the quartermaster. He returns a minute or so later. "Nah, nothing fun. But I did pick up a few things I had forgotten! NOW im ready to go, for real this time!"

OOC: I purchased 2 extra daggers, and 2 sets of shurikens for a total of 4g. This has been noted on my character sheet. (From 28 to 24 gold).

[McMindflayer]

I would like to make an Insight check for what the man says to us (Just in case) And an Arcana check to see if I can understand/realize what these tablets are. I am a follower of Ioun and a magic vendor who takes interests in these things, hopefully I know of a rumor or soemthing.
[roll0]
[roll1]
I have no money, but can I get one of those adventuring packs?


Daamatka looks carefully at the tablet and uses his fingers to follow the archaic handwriting. He kept all musings to himself however, and tried to think of any other objections or questions he should have. But the others seemed to have gotten it all answered. He then realized, after the man had left, that he still held the tablet. "Hmm, He forgot the tablet. I am unsure if we should bring it. It would help identify the object of our search, but I don't wish to break the only one we have, if we don't come across one in the old fort." He pauses and turns to Watchtower and Sgarn. "Could either of you two look after it? You both look like rather big me-... Beings. I'm afraid that my strength has left me long ago, and I don't feel the item is safe within my hands."

[Occult Priest]

After careful examination, Daamatka is sure that the writing on the diagram is Supernal, the language of Immortals. The shape and composition also suggests a connection to the Tiefling Empire of ages past.

OOC: By the way, Lorc didn't give Daamatka an actual tablet, he gave him a diagram of one.

[Terraoblivion]

She looked over the gathered people, a friendly, if slightly odd, smile on her face as she did so. "But if we all are ready then let's be off. The bonus sounds nice and i could easily do without being in this mudhole any longer. I think Daamatka should keep the diagram, he is the one of us most likely to be able to understand it should we get separated."

[Zrinfael]

I also want to make an intuition check just to be sure our employer isn't trying to pull something sneaky.
[roll0]
Sgarn checks everything in his pack, repacks, and secures it all. He glances up at his companions. "I'm not so concerned about any bonus, but a two day walk there and another two days back. That leaves us three days to turn an entire fort inside out looking for a single stone the size of a hand that might not even be there." Sgarn tightens the straps around his bag with a jerk. "That's not counting whatever we find in the fort that will have made its home there." After tying the bag to his satisfaction, Sgarn takes four descent sized rocks and piles them in front of him. "May I see the map for a moment?" He spreads the map out on the ground using a rock at each corner to keep it flat. Looking at the map, touching one finger to the base camp, another to the fort, tracing the path up the mountains to the fort. "The silver lining in our cloud is that from the description we have, the stone looks to be worthless unless you know what it is. So, if it ever was at the fort, it is likely to remain there even after all these years."

[Occult Priest]

Lorc comes across to Sgarn as a warrior saddled with administrative duty; giving his all to perform his duty, regardless of how tedious he finds it. He gives orders to deal with problems as they come up, answers questions and explains the job to ensure each team is prepared, and then moves on to do it again. He is brisk and professional, but the annoyance is there if you look for it.

Sgarn also notice that Lorc didn't answer Rolondo's questions about what the tablet is and what letters are or mean.

OOC: Sorry Daamatka, forgot to write a response about getting an adventurer kit. You can find one for free, but it's a bit used. It has a tattered and frayed backpack and bedroll, two torches, 25 feet of rope, a waterskin and three days of trail rations.

[McMindflayer]

Damaatka puts the peice of paper into his pack, along with his new survival gear. It was worn, but he would just have to live with it. He hoped he could.
"Well, If it's been up there for a long time, we'd get lucky and only have to search the underground of the fort. The above ground portions must have dehabilitated with time. I can't see it having a second floor." Replied the Tiefling. "So it shouldn't take that long to search through if we just stick to it." He Paused and looked into the forest, then at the rest of the parties around the area. some seemed to be heading out. "Well, with our map we should head out. Can't waste daylight, unless you plan on walking in the dark, of which I don't.

[Occult Priest]

The camp quickly disappears behind you as make your way into the woods. The sounds of life echo around you in the perpetual twilight under the thick canopy.

So... how do you intend to get to and find the fort?:smallconfused:

[HardboiledJJ]

I concur. The prospect of exploring these ruins is enticing, and I believe I could describe myself as anxious to begin the expedition..

In no time the warforged stood ready to march.

[Zrinfael]

Unless anyone has a better idea, I figure we'll point ourselves in a Northeasterly direction and hope to run across the trail going up to the fort as we get closer. Assuming the fort is acting as home to a reasonably large menagerie of critters, which is usually the case with buildings left to rot, there'll be tons of assorted tracks in the immediate area of the fort to let us know we're close. If we are unlucky enough to get to the crest of the valley without finding the fort, then we'll have to travel along that looking for the place.
A couple perception checks to try spotting the road should we cross it, as well as trying to spot anything unexpected we might run across.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]


Sgarn walks with his companions, eyes and ears alert. "Eyes open everyone. Aside from whatever critters are out here looking for lunch, we should run across that old trail Lorc mentioned as we travel. If we are unlucky and fail to find any trail before we reach the crest of the valley..." He snorts "We'll cross that bridge should we come to it."

[Kabump]

Ill be keeping my eyes open as we walk along, looking for said trails, as well as anything else that might be lurking around.
[b]Perception - [roll0]


"Bridge? Lorc didn't mention anything about a bridge! Is it a big bridge? I bet it probably is." Obviously misunderstanding Sgarn's words, Rolondo eyes the surroundings as the group walks. While his attitude might label him as relaxed, his eyes are alertly darting around as they walk, and his right hand is always close to where his dagger hangs on his left hip. He dips back into the middle of the group as they walk, not wanting to be in either the front or rear of the group.

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

Terridus follows the group. Every several minutes his hands trail across each of his weapons, subconciously checking their position. He watches each speaker intently, but says nothing.

[Terraoblivion]

"Sounds like a good plan, Sgarn. I trust you to lead the way then, as you are clearly more experienced with this than the rest of us." She sent the dragonborn her most winning smile as she gazed over the forests surrounding them, seeming quite relaxed as she did so taking it almost too easily. "Do any of you know anything about the local wildlife? What we should be on the lookout for, apart from the trails and any possible fey beasts there might be. Though if we meet any of those it is probably the end, they are likely faster than us and are definitely stronger." She giggled a bit as she said so. "The Feywild just refuses to do anything undramatically and that includes animals. You should see the panthers back home. They are nearly invisible and completely silent, moving with the grace of the eladrin and they are just the bottom of the food chain when it comes to predators."

I hope it is alright i give a little information on fey panthers, but it would be hard to get by without any knowledge at all about the world you grew up in.

Anyway perception checks. Since i have no bonus they are just straight d20 rolls and i'll make a few just to be certain.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[HardboiledJJ]

Along with Rolondo, Watchtower fell into place in the middle. He enjoyed being in the middle of a group. So much more interaction.

"Ah, good sir Rolondo. I believe the bridge mentioned by our fine knight of Bahamut is in fact metaphorical. The phrase seems to indicate to wait until further difficulties arrive and then deal with them accordingly. Hmmm. . .but I did not look at the map. I suppose it would not be unheard of for there to be a rope bridge across a cavern. I find your curiosity most infectious.

[Zrinfael]

"Hah!" A grin plays about scaly lips as Sgarn waggles a taloned finger in the air. "Put the big guy up front so whatever eats him will be too weighed down to chase us." The grin fades while Sgarn ducks under a low branch and tromps through underbrush. "Honestly, your guess is as good as mine Sari. My wilderness training consisted of learning to keep alert and follow tracks along with the barest bits of navigation and survival. I fell far short of learning to identify most creatures I see, much less by tracks and habitat." Sgarn emits a cross between a chuckle and a growl. "Too much spit and fire, not enough cunning and guile."
A few paces ahead of the others, Sgarn looks back over his shoulder making sure everyone is keeping pace. "My bridge isn't real, or if it is, it'll be as much as a surprise to me as it is everyone else." Glancing up to check where the sun is in the sky, "If it is real though, hopefully it will be in good repair, Watsht... Wastsht" Sgarn sighs heavily. "Toc. It's clear you're not clockwork, but I'm afraid that's all the more clever I am." Sgarn looks at Watchtower apologetically. "Toc and I would likely have trouble crossing an old rope bridge."

Since we're concerned about a snow, albeit an early one, I'm guessing we're mid to late autumn. That'd give us something like 12-14 hours of usable daylight? If we left reasonably quickly after being given our instructions, that'd give us how long before visibility becomes an issue? What kind of plant life are we walking through at the moment? I'm envisioning a reasonably wooded area with a bit of underbrush, but not so thick that it would really slow down a group on foot.
Unless someone says something specific, we can probably assume Sgarn will be taking point from here out should a marching order be required.

[Kabump]

"Hmm really, Tower? Not a real bridge huh. Boy I really misunderstood that! But wouldn't it be pretty neat if there was a bridge?" Having been corrected on his misinterpretation, he looks up to Sgarn in the lead. "Well I certainly wouldn't be anything but a snack if I were in the lead, Sgarn! You look like you can handle yourself should anything try to eat you at least! Would give me time to sneak up behind it and take care of it for you too!" Rolondo says with a chuckle. With thoughts of being eaten now in his head, Rolondo looks over to the sides again, taking a look to see if he sees anything. "I might not know much about wildlife, but that over there is, without a doubt, a tree." Rolondo points to a large tree mater-of-factly as he looks over their surroundings.


I will stay in the middle of the pack. That will let me start with some cover should we run into any nasties, and hopefully let me get into hiding for positioning. Im also gonna drop a few more perception checks while we walk. Also, I had a mental image of our surroundings similar to Zrin, so Im assuming we are on some sort of trail through some woods.

Perception Checks

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Occult Priest]

OOC: If Sgarn is leading the group, we'll focus on he's perception rolls and use the others as aids.

Kabump, your mental image is correct.

You have about 13 hours of light available to you.

The thick underbrush makes going slow, but the banter that fills the time makes it pleasant.

Sgarn spots the remains of an old road marker two hours into the hike, after Rolondo had climbed on top of it in order to get a better view of the land.

Following the road cuts the travel time in half, and by the sun is setting, you have made it half-way up the side of the valley and should be at the fort by sundown tomorrow if you rest now.

The trip has been quite uneventful, but you have already noticed that the game trails and signs of animals are becoming scarcer and scarcer. Even as the sun sets the only sounds you hear are the cries of large cats.

[HardboiledJJ]

"Fear not good knight. The name you give me is a gift. I will take pride in it. It is, after all, my fist nickname as you would call it."

Though the trip is otherwise uneventful, Watchtower enjoys himself. In passing he asks Sariel and Terridus more about the Feywild-though he is respectful if Terridus chooses to maintain his silence. In the meanwhile the warforged unknowingly continues to play straightman to Rolondo's free spirit.

As the sun sets, and it looks as if the group may be setting camp, Watchtower utters a quiet prayer.

"Good night old friend. I shall remain ever watchful until you return come morning."

[Zrinfael]

In the setting sun, Sgarn pitches a tent in a little spot just off the trail cleared of underbrush. He then sets about seeing to a safe as possible spot for a fire close to the tent. "With all that noise we'll definitely want a watch. Those sleeping can stay in the tent while watchers tend the fire. We should keep it burning if we can, it will keep the bigger of the night hunters away. Or maybe it will attract them? I can never remember." He pauses for a minute or two staring into the small orange flames of the fledgling fire wearing a curious expression, then blinks and looks up suddenly. "Um, do you sleep Toc?"
Sgarn sits close to the fire, its light keeping the dark at bay and warmth warding against the night's chill. Munching at his rations, listening to the others talk, tossing in his two cents from time to time. "I'll turn in early and take the last watch. Given how long nights are getting we'll probably all be up before dawn's light lets us start moving again anyways. Stay sharp friends, and stay warm." He raises his waterskin in a make-shift toast.

Perception roll for Sgarn's watch
[roll0]

[HardboiledJJ]

I do not need to sleep per se. My sytem will need approximately 4 hours to recalibrate, however I will be able to maintain watch the full time.

While the others eat and drink, Watchtower begins his "rest", so as to be alert for the majority of the night. Meanwhile he enjoys the company of those around.

[Occult Priest]

The night passes uneventfully and you awaken refreshed and ready for day. After finishing a quick breakfast, you continue the hike up to the fort.

Please roll Perception checks for the hike. While I wait for the numbers to come in, you can roleplay anything you want to about breakfast.

[Kabump]

Rolondo wakes up quickly. While he is one to enjoy his sleep, its never an issue for him to be up and ready to go. "Eat up guys, breakfast is the most important meal of the day! I heard some really big guy say that once, so it has some merit to it. He was even bigger than YOU, Toc!" Rolondo quickly finishes his breakfast, then gathers up all his gear. Once he is sure he has everything, he goes over to Watchtower and begins to converse with him in casual conversation, since it appears for once that someone actually enjoys conversing with the talkative halfling!


Perception checks for our hike.
[roll0]
[roll1]

edited to reflect we haven't left camp yet. Thats what I get for posting when still half asleep :smallbiggrin:

[HardboiledJJ]

Perception rolls:
[roll0]
[roll1]

That seems appropriate advice, as organic constructs require foodstuffs to fuel their movement. Fuel consumption after exertion would be inefficient.

The metal man does not eat, but takes pleasure in preparing breakfast for the others. Sadly, the mindset of cooking food as fuel does not always lead to the tastiest meal. . .even if it is efficient.

[Zrinfael]

I noticed after I'd posted that fully half the party doesn't sleep, so it's kinda silly to set up watches when three of us are always up anyhow. Chalk that up to Sgarn's lack of understanding of all things Eladrin :smallbiggrin:
[roll0]
[roll1]
Sgarn is up well before the sun, as promised, leaning against a thick tree near the burnt-out remains of their campfire, arms crossed, watching the new day's first rays of light filter through the trees. Not as nice as actually watching the sunrise, but it'll do. The big dragonborn breaks his fast in relative silence, lost in his own musings, packs up the tent, secures his bag, stretches and yawns.
"Hopefully we'll see the fort by sundown tonight."

[Terraoblivion]

Curse these boards and their instability. I had a long post written for the night before and then it got eaten when the boards could not load the actual posting of it and now it is too late. I guess i'll survive, but it is still annoying.

Needing to sink into a trance for a much shorter time than most of the people of this world left a lot of time open for Sariel to spend time on something else. What she did was to keep the warforged company answering his questions about the Feywild. She told him of storms as black as the night, only illuminated by the blindingly white flashes of the lightning. She told him of the glittering, seamless spires of the eladrin rising above the forests of the Feywild like beacons for the travellers. She told him about strange creatues, lemurs with fur like moss and lean hunting dogs that could appear in new places in the blink of an eye. She told him of the terrible beasts that came out of the earth to attack the eladrin.

When the morning came she started eating with the others, a clear hesitation coming over her as she did so. "How about somebody else cooks tonight? The rations are awful as it is and it would probably help if someone who eats is also the one who cooks. Gives better understanding of how to make it taste better."

And the perception rolls for when we walk.

1d20
1d20
1d20

[McMindflayer]

Daamatka felt like he only just stretched out to sleep within his tent, when the sun hit his eyes and forced him awake. He stretched himself, feeling all his bones and muscles complain, but thankfully it wasn't too loudly. The last Month out here has gotten him used to sleeping in tents. Though the rocky and hard floor wasn't very nice on his back, he accepts it without complaint.

He folds up his tent and eats food with the others, managing to swallow enough of it to last till lunch... hopefully. "I used to have to fend for myself. I think I can come up with something for later today." He offered up.

After Breakfast was over he pulled on hi pack, made sure he wasn't forgetting anything, and headed off with the others, putting himself near the back of the group.

[roll0]

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

While the group walks, Terridus answers Watchtower's questions as best he kind.

"Well, mechano-man, the feywild is like a mirror of the world around us, except twisted with a kind of wondrous naturalism. Where there is a valley in our world, in the feywild there is a similar valley, but perhaps filled with overgrown trees and mischevious fey. It overlaps with certain forests in this world, including the one we're currently so near to. It can be both fascinating, and very dangerous. I myself am empathetic to the plane, being that it is the ancient source of Eladrin."

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

[roll0]

[ArmorArmadillo]

Perception is a d20 roll...
[roll0]

[ArmorArmadillo]

The Board Roller: Father of all Quadruple Posts
[roll0]

[Occult Priest]

Zrin, Kabump, HB... you guys have to stop taking all the good rolls for yourselves. :smallwink:

Oh, and McMindflayer... Damatka sees more trees. :smalltongue:

The march flies by even quicker today, especially after Sgarn found a long furrow of dead earth where nothing had grown. The furrow was almost ten feet wide and weaved gently back and forth as it made its way up the mountain. This dead land was smooth, lacking any form of plant life, though the tracks of animals making their way across it was quite obvious. Whatever had caused the furrow had occurred long ago.

The furrow ends at the crest of the valley in a vast, clearing of the same dead, lifeless soil surrounded by thick verdant forest. A single crumbling parapet is visible peaking over the trees, not even an hour's walk away. You can easily get there within the hour, and still have two hours of daylight left to begin your search.

Of course, sitting in the center of the camp are the remains of a campfire and the charred bones of some unfortunate forest critter. All of which are surrounded by burned out torches and the tracks of goblins.

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

Terridus moves with conserved swiftness, he leans quickly to the ground and begins examining the tracks.

[roll0]
What can I figure out about the tracks; how many, how fresh, what direction, etc.

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn looks over the camp, then at the tower over the treeline, then up at the quickly setting sun. He scratches his chin while watching Terridus examine the scene. "Much as I'd like to track these things down and see where their base camp is, we don't have the luxury of time." Sgarn reaches up over his shoulder and grabs the hilt of his sword. "Chances are good they've taken up residence in the fort up ahead anyhow. I doubt we could sneak up on them regardless of how we approach." Sgarn draws his sword then looks at each of his companions in turn. "Thoughts? Plans? Regardless of where we set up camp tonight, we should assume there are goblins in the area. No fire, as little noise as possible, I'm sure you all know the drill. Be at the ready for fun anytime now."

Stealing the best rolls? Bah! The dice only favor me until I'm in combat or really need to make a roll. Just wait 'till I'm trying to hit something, then you shall see an impressive display of impotence. :smalltongue:

[McMindflayer]

"Well, we could always attack head on. But then goblins are nasty little critters who have traps all over the outside of their demenses, sometimes even within. A lone goblin at the end of a tunnel is not something to follow." He said sagely, thinking of what he knows about goblins. ""Of course, there's always the bartering option. Goblins like shiny things, food, weapons, magical items. Anything that catches their fancy. We could ask for free passage through their lands, unless they own the keep... Maybe they have the item we look for. We could always barter with them for it. I highly doubt they would have picked it up though, and if they do retain command of the keep, then they are even less likely to allow us in to look around. But still, keeping options open is useful to us." Daamatka looks to the others. "I don't know much about battle, but I am a fine tradesman. So, if we are to do some battle with these creatures. some guidance about tactics or the like would be much appreciated."


[roll0] - See If I know any other things that might work for fending off goblins. (i.e. what else they might barter for, if they would actually find interest in the tablet, etc.)

It is alright that I said all that right? I mean Goblins and traps are rather common knowledge. and he is a tradesman, so he should know something about selling to beings of various types.

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

"You misunderstand. My interest is not tracking the goblins. I'm simply trying to determine where they may have headed, and how recently they've been in the area. Such information is useful regardless of how we act upon it." He stands after thoroughly examing the tracks, his hand brushing across his blade. "As for a goblin ambush, I'd say that appears unlikely. The tracks aren't concealed, and the campfire wasn't even cleaned." Terridus stops and rubs his chin thoughtfully.

"Of course, I do remember a clever ambush I once saw executed by a group of tiefling bandits. They employed goblin hirelings, and had them tramp out an obvious trail around a camp site. Ideally, such action would lead those who saw the tracks to expect a small, poorly organized group of goblins, and be unprepared for a larger, more talented group. It's an outside chance, but keep your guard up."

[Kabump]

Rolondo

"Ohhh Goblins you say? Now I don't know why they are out here, or what they could possibly be doing, but I think we should keep heading towards the keep." Rolondo had heard Sgarn mention time was limited, and he wasn't much keen on the idea of hanging around in obvious goblin territory after dark. "If you REALLY wanted, I could try to scout those tracks, see if they lead anywhere. Although, if Terri is right about an ambush..." While he doesn't for a minute doubt his ability to silently track the footsteps, Rolondo is not too keen on setting out alone towards an unknown number of goblins. He makes his offer hoping to impress they big guys, and hopes the time constraint will make them decline said generous "offer". "Personally, I'm all for keeping on to the fortress. That's where we need to go anyway, and if the goblins are already there, at least we have some idea of what to possibly expect. We should head there while we still have light. We just need to be extra careful as we walk!" As he says those last words, he draws his dagger out, as he not one to enjoy being caught unaware, and gives a quick listen into the woods to see if he hears anything.


I tend to roll real well on skills for some reason. Combat is another story. As far as tactics, Im willing to stealth on into the forest a bit if you guys want to be safe, but I think we should head towards the keep while we still have light. Of course Im always willing to hear other ideas. Now for one more perception check as I listen into the woods....

Perception: [roll0]

[Terraoblivion]

"I am not too familiar with goblins, but from what i know they are intelligent and have communal societies, not too different from humans, except that people are terrified of them. Uglier as well from what i gather, but i doubt i could determine that." She let her gaze pass over the group, as she broke into a smile. She knew that it would likely be an insult to the most common race around, but none of the people present were human in any case. "So i support Daamatka's suggestion of talking to them. Living out here should leave them lacking all sorts of things, perhaps we can even get them to find the tablet for us if they are in the keep. Easier that way and prevents us from getting dirty in there. If they are not in the fort we should just search it."

[McMindflayer]

Daamatka lets out a light chuckle and turns to Sariel "he he. Goblins are not smart my lady. They are only cunning with traps and ambushes. That is a generalization, I'm sure. I personnaly, have never met a smart goblin, and I doubt there are very many in the world. Humans have a higher amount of smart beings, and the rest of their populace can at least feign intelligence." He chuckles softly again. "Intelligent. Whoo."

[Occult Priest]

Terridus
The tracks seem to be between two to three days old. Unfortunately, they've degraded enough that you can't really tell where they go to due to the milling about, and the best estimate you can make on numbers is between 10 and 25.

Daamatka
Not a problem is saying what you did. Unfortunately, you can't really think of anything else they would trade for, if they aren't hostile/hungry/in a pissy mood, and someone in your group can speak Goblin.

Rolondo
The forest is quiet. As in, there isn't nearly the ambient animal noises there should be quiet. Strange that you didn't notice it until now...

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

"I'm afraid you're all getting ahead of yourselves. These tracks are at least a day or two old. We may not be encountering the goblins at all." He stands and grips his sword's hilt loosely.
"Of course, if we do we should be careful. They're around fifteen strong, possibly more."

[Kabump]

Rolondo

As Rolondo listens in on the the surroundings, he realizes something that makes him feel a bit on guard. "Um, guys. Is it just me, or does it seem unusually quiet around here? I mean I don't hear the same animal noises that we heard before. Does that strike anyone else as odd?" He walks over and stands next to Watchtower, keeping his eyes alert on their surroundings and feeling better about his decision to draw his dagger.

[HardboiledJJ]

Could such quiet be resultant of Feywild properties? Mayhaps a predator previously unfamiliar to this wild has imbalanced its ecology. Or, I have heard animals can become very quiet just before a storm. But I am not knowledgeable firsthand of such things.

Watchtower touches the golden symbol of Pelor on his chest and silently prays for a safe travel.

[Terraoblivion]

"I wouldn't know. The Feywild was always alive in a way this world isn't, i thought this quiet was just how it is here. I don't know what effect a creature from the Feywild would have on the local animals, so i don't know if the two are related. If the camp is deserted let's press on for now, there is no point in standing here wasting time, we will just have to deal with the goblins when we meet them" She broke into a small grin as she traced the filigree adorning the hilt of her sword, seeming entirely confident in her ability to deal with goblins whether through talking or fighting.

[ArmorArmadillo]

Terridus

"Agreed, we have a goal here and it isn't the goblins. If we keep our guard up, we should be fine. Terridus stands, brushes off his knees, and continues on the path.

[Zrinfael]

Sgarn nods "Let's continue on and keep our fingers crossed with blades at the ready. We should reach the tower before our good friend the sun sets and we'll be in a better position to see what we're dealing with." Sgarn keeps a good grip on his sword in one hand, and sets off with Terridus towards the tower.

[Kabump]

Rolondo

Not wanting to be left behind, Rolondo quickly turns and follows Sgarn and Terridus as the start to head out. There was still the matter of the 1000 gold reward for being back first after all, no sense in wasting time! And who knows what kind of neat stuff they would find in the ruins! With one last glance around to look for trouble, Rolondo catches up with Sgarn and falls into his customary position in the middle of the marching order. His thoughts soon drift off into the thoughts of 1000 gold coins...


One last perception check 1d20+5 Then as his mind starts to wander, Rolondo will use his passive perception as he dreams of gold coins (15 passive perception)