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Southbound


Taking the southern road.... 
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 11:58:33 AM

The Heroes says farewell to Donovan and promise to find his daughter Sparkle.
Headed mostly west,southwest, the Heroes notice strange things about the road. The strangest is when Evaris stumbles in a small depression in a dry mud puddle along the so called road.

Know Nature DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { It's a pachyderm track, larger than a regular elephant }

A bit further along the Heroes find 6 inch wide depressions on both sides of the so called road.

Know Engineering DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Heavy Wagon Wheel tracks!!}

Finding more of each of the strange depressions.... Survival(tracking) DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { They look to be headed to Merrydale }

Eventually the Heroes begin to head mostly in the westerly direction, only changing when an obstacle is in the way and it appeared easier for whomever laid out the road to just go around.

To the north side of the road off in the distance the Group sees Glitterox and will eventually have to pass it, a a few miles distance, to reach Merrydale.
Know Religion DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { According to Woldian religions, it was a gift from Alemi and the 4 sisters. It's annual eruption replenishes the Valley.}

Hours of traveling, and the occasional farm or cluster of family homes is passed, while the Heroes continue to see the occasional "tracks" they've been somewhat following along the road.
As the Heroes near Merrydale, the landscape shifts slightly to more of a rolling hill type region. Ahead of the Heroes they can see wisps of chimney smoke reaching to the Heavens. As well as better tended fields than what they had be passing for the past few hours.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+5=15 ; d20+11=23 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 3:18:58 PM

Brom leads the group west, southwest and then west, following the tracks of an animal he is not familiar with. He pauses again to look at the trail to make sure he hasn't lost it. While doing so, he pulls a block of tobacco from his pack, cuts a piece, and puts it in his mouth. Returning the remaining block to his pack, he looks off in the direction the tracks head. "Looks like their headin' fer Merrydale." He says (Survival DC 23).



Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 4:01:40 PM

So what to we do ?
Lanliss asks Brom.
Anyone found something interesting ? He asks once in a while while walking.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs)  d20+12=23 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 7:32:36 PM

Well as far as interesting goes, the upcoming Glitterox, according to Woldian religions, was a gift from Alemi and the 4 sisters. It's annual eruption replenishes the Valley. Beyond that, nothing from me.

I think it might be worthwhile at this point to take an hour break, and cast the scry spell. This all seems a little too odd. I would like to know as much as possible about her location if possible before heading into Merrydale. If she is in a wooden structure, there could be more here to be wary of than we know, and could necessitate a search of the village. If she is in a cave, or in the woods, then talking to the people for information will be a priority.


Evaris (Kathy)  d20+12=22 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 10:59:29 PM

"A good notion, Friend Velarin," Evaris says. "It's always best to know what we're letting ourselves in for."

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73  d20+14=25 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+10=21 ; d20+12=28 ;
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 11:12:21 PM

(Knowledge [Nature]: 25. Knowledge [Engineering]: 15. Survival: 21. Knowledge [Religion]: 28)

"Evaris, I think you stumbled into the tracks of a pachyderm! I had no idea there were animals of that sort in the area. These are wagon wheel tracks as well. Look how deep and wide those ruts are. A caravan that large must need such a beast to pull it. This narrative becomes more interesting with every step!"

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Tuesday January 17th, 2017 11:59:02 PM

"I suggest we talk with the townsfolk. They would have seen... whatever came through here recently."

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+4=6 ;
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 1:55:22 AM

Barratore moves along with his brother in arms, but misses the meaning of any of the marks and gouges along the route. the remarks about a caravan were a bit disturbing to Barratore. Could she have fallen victim to slavers? But would that attract the undead treant? didn't seem likely, perhaps the 2 sets of tracks were unrelated.

At any rate, Barratore agrees with V, a scry spell before coming into Merrydale seemed a good idea

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 6:11:50 AM

Edson takes a break while the spell is cast. The tracks meant nothing to him, and the area seemed quiet enough.

Taking the southern road.... 
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 12:27:59 PM

The Heroes make a decision to stop and see what can be found out by the use of a divination spell. The group finds a small pull off, where it looks like the occasional traveler has set up camp for the night, in the lea of a small grove of trees.
Setting up for the ritual Velarin pulls out the hair ribbon that was found and begins the spell. Pulling out an expensive silver mirror, about a foot and a half square, Velarin makes himself comfortable and over time a the clouded image eventually comes into focus. A small dwarven girl appears in the mirror, she looks unhurt except for the rope tieing her to a post that continues up out of sight. The area around her looks to be a hard packed dirt floor, with a non-descript man also tied up behind her also tied to another post. The light seems to encompass them both but beyond it's reach is the darkness of pure darkness.
After a few minutes of searching for further clues as to a location, something forcibly ends the Scrying spell.

The Heroes have a bit more information, and are still some distance from Merrydale. What do they plan on doing now?

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 3:01:17 PM

(OOC: Velarin didn't do the scry. Either Emrys or Evaris did. I will wait for their posts before posting mine)

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 4:07:16 PM

Lanliss rests a bit and is very interested in seeing the scry spell at work.
Regardless of who casts the scry spell, Lanliss will be surprised to know that there is another one that is kidnapped.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 10:27:39 PM

(If no one else had prepared a Scry spell, Emrys can deduct a spell slot to pay for it. He needn't prepare the spell ahead of time, all his spells are spontaneously cast.)

"That was a dire vision indeed. We must prepare ourselves for the worst. Now having seen her, I can attempt to Locate her when we get closer to Merrydale. The range of that spell isn't as far as I would wish."

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Wednesday January 18th, 2017 11:37:59 PM

"Yes, let's cast the spells again when we learn more from the townsfolk." Baslim grips his staff, ready to proceed.

Evaris (Kathy) 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 12:35:29 AM

"Underground, do you think?" Evaris asks, troubled by the vision. "Wherever it is, we had best find them quickly."

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 10:09:02 AM

From the sounds of what Emrys saw, underground is a good bet. Perhaps a very large cave of some sort. So, let us go speak with the villagers. Perhaps they have more information to offer, and perhaps one of their own is missing as well.

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Identify-C, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste-C, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball-C, Summon monster 5, empower fireball-C, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere


Taking the southern road.... 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 11:59:50 AM

The Heroes have received some information about the missing girl and also discovered that there was another captive along with her. It's decided that the group should continue on to Merrydale.
Having spent some extra time doing the Scrying, it has become quite late in the afternoon, and with the general geography of the Valley in mind, it'll be well after dark before you reach Merrydale.
Maybe the Heroes should just set up a camp here where they are already stopped.

(My apologies, I miss read figured the distances on the map on the Cinnamon Valley Wiki page. The Heroes should be about 1/2 way between the stream and Merrydale, about under the X of Glitterox. So you would not have seen the smoke from the town yet.)

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 1:19:55 PM

Barratore snorts at what the spell reveals. She was a prisoner and as just the daughter of a farmer, the reasons to keep her bound were dire. "You should try the spell now Emrys. We only go to Merrydale for more information. She was taken out this way and we may be closer now then at Merrydale"

If the group wants to still go on, Barratore voices they should hustle to make the town as soon as they can.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Thursday January 19th, 2017 2:37:42 PM

"So now its two. Doesnt matter.. one, two.. we do our job either way."

He nods in agreement at Barratore. The minotaur had a point.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 2:51:38 PM

Brom waits for the decision to move on or cast the spell.

Once the spell is cast and the information determined or the it is not cast, Brom will head out again towards Merrydale.

Perception DC27, Survival DC 21 (taking 10 on both)

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+17=33 ;
Thursday January 19th, 2017 7:17:42 PM

We'll just have to be extra careful at night Lanliss says.
Lanliss looks determined and focused on the surroundings as he moves with the group forward to Merrydale.

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 7:18:08 PM

Perception 33

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Thursday January 19th, 2017 11:55:25 PM

"Very well. Let us press on. It would not be wise to be caught here after dark."

Evaris (Kathy) 
Friday January 20th, 2017 12:19:24 AM

"I agree; time is of the essence," Evaris says. "Let us press on."

Taking the southern road.... 
Friday January 20th, 2017 1:36:57 PM

The Heroes decide to press on, they get a few more miles and as they travel on, darkness settles in upon them. The road is easy enough to follow as there is a waxing quarter moon (Warrd) as well as a waning three-quarter moon (Kerracles) , but crystal clear skies to go along with it. Somewhere off in the distance towards Glitterox, a howl can be heard and shortly after there are the answering howls of the rest of the pack. Know Nature DC 14 Highlight to display spoiler: { Wolf howls, and from the numbers of answering howls approximately 20 in the pack}
As midnight approaches Kerracles sets leaving only Warrd in the sky, making it quite difficult to see for those without improved vision, even torch light only helps some as there isn't much for the light to reflect off of.
So far during the night's travel, they've heard more animals than seen, except for the very few farms they've passed. Ahead, there is the sound of a dog barking and it's joined by another three or four as the Heroes continue down the road.
Ahead is the largest "farm" the group has yet seen. Those with enhanced vision see a gate with named carved into the overhead of it. "Glittermint Grove" About a 1/2 mile of fenced in lane leads to a large farm house with very large barns along side it.

(Sorry for being late on the post, body refused to wake up)

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Friday January 20th, 2017 5:52:33 PM

" Want to see if we can camp in there? Off the road and out of the woods will be good if those animals get closer."

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Friday January 20th, 2017 7:11:10 PM

Lanliss agrees with Edson saying, It's better to be at an open place than be enclosed by the forest shadows and be unready to be ambushed be a pack of wolves or crazy dead evil menacing trees.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Friday January 20th, 2017 8:08:47 PM

A barn floor should be a safe enough refuge for tonight. A few coins for the inconvenience of being woken, and allowing us to stay the night in their barn would be fair.

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Identify-C, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste-C, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball-C, Summon monster 5, empower fireball-C, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere


Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+5=10 ; d3=3 ; d20+17=23 ;
Friday January 20th, 2017 11:31:04 PM

The group moves on and Brom keeps them moving in the right direction. The sounds of the howls break up the silence of the evening. As he listens he knows it is wolves, but is unable to determine the number, but it does sound like many.

Brom s in agreement with trying to seek lodging at the farmhouse. "Be careful. The kidnappers came this way. They either took the second girl from here or have men here."

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Friday January 20th, 2017 11:57:33 PM

"Perhaps we can provide some service in exchange for food and shelter. Let us go pay the good farmer a visit."

Evaris (Kathy) 
Saturday January 21st, 2017 1:22:56 PM

"It's a bit late to go pounding on farm-house doors," Evaris cautions. "Perhaps we should just set up camp, and then make amends in the morning."

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 8:14:45 AM

With a large pack of wolves out and about and likely on the hunt, we either awaken him, or help ourselves to a spot on the floor of one of the barns and apologize in the morning. For all we know, the large caravan that came this way is holed up in one or more of the barns.

The caravan could possibly be slavers, capturing all they find that are unable to fight or flee.

Taking the southern road.... 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 11:36:00 AM

The farmer, awakened by the hunting dogs he has guarding the property near his home and barns, meets the Heroes near the gate. When he fins out who they are, he offers the barn without delay.
"I'm sorry I have nothing better than the Barn to offer you to spend the night. But feel free to make yourself comfortable. My hands should be in around daybreak to milk the cows and take care of the other animals. I know it won't be 8 hours, but the cattle get restless if they are moved off their schedules too much."
At the mention of the wolves heard down the road aways, "That sounds like Greyback and his pack. They've been roaming out here for years, it must be 20 some years ago that he moved his pack out this way. Over the years I've lost some livestock to him and his, but not in the last couple years.
At the mention of the wagon train, "It must have gone by after dark, haven't seen anything unusual except you all in the last few days.
Well, I'll let you get some rest, and I need to get some sleep too, gotta show some of my horses tomorrow and that'll make it a long day."

The rest of the night passes without interruption, until just before daybreak when a couple lads come in to the barn and start milking the half-dozen cows in the back part of the barn.

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 4:16:48 PM

Lanliss sleeps peacefully without any dreams.
He wakes up a little bit rugged but feeling energized and thinks about how they (and him) will save Sparkle, on another thought, it will probably be Brom and Barratore who will save sparkle, Lanliss thinks.
He stills feels good.

Evaris (Kathy) 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 5:53:39 PM

Evaris is grateful to snatch what rest he can, and awakens the next day ready to continue their journey.

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 7:13:55 PM

The minotaur has been quiet over the last few hours. Darkness descended and the group slowed somewhat and so he did as well. Wolves and other natural creatures of the night were of little concern even if he were to be alone and doubly not so while travelling with his friends. The kidnappers to, held little trepidation. Cowards and roaches that slunked through the dark to grab farm girls held no concern or fear for him.

Barratore finds some hay and makes his bedroll and goes to sleep. Morning finds him sleeping, but he easily enough gets up and readies to go. Over breakfast he decides to inquire on the spell that they were thinking of casting to locate the girl and perhaps when that weavers of the mystic arts might know when they intend to cast it.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 8:24:36 PM

Emrys is thankful for the barn ... if he had been alone, and forced to spend the night outside, he would have simply taken the form of a tree for the night. However with his friends, the barn is suitable. He summons an unseen servant to clean and prepare a spot for him. No need for him to become soiled and unfit for slumber. His bedroll, pillow and blanket is quite sufficient. A quick prestidigitation gives the air around him a more pleasant scent ... at least long enough for him to get to sleep.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=20 ; d20+11=18 ;
Monday January 23rd, 2017 10:45:32 PM

Brom finds a comfortable place to sleep and settles in for the night. He grabs a wineskin and has a few drinks of ale and some rations before crashing. He sleeps for a few hours before he is awake again rested and ready for the day. He gathers his gear and finds a place to watch the surrounding area. He listens to the sounds of the night picking out the various sounds for any hostiles.

The morning light comes and Brom is still perched in a place watching the surround. As the farm hands come to milk the herd, Brom moves about the perimeter looking for signs of the wolves or any other unwanteds.

Perception DC 20, Survival DC 18

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Monday January 23rd, 2017 11:56:32 PM

Baslim wakes with the dawn and quickly joins the farmhands in their chores. "Please allow me to help. I never knew the simple pleasure of working the land and tending animals in my childhood, and I always look for chances to make it up." He helps the farmhands however he can until it is time to bid the farm goodbye.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 8:31:20 AM

Velarin layd down in the hay for the night, and goes to sleep thinking of how best to further aproach the problem of the hostages. Upon being awoken in the morning, he prepares his spells

"Well guys? what now? It would probably be good if Brom could find the tracks once again so we can verify our direction. And, perhaps ask the farmer if he knows of any places that would match the dexcription of what Emrys saw in his vision before heading toward town."

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball, Summon monster 5, empower fireball, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere


Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 12:17:00 PM

Edson heads to the barn with the others. He'll set up in the loft if possible. Stay off the ground.

Taking the southern road.... 
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 12:22:02 PM

As the Heroes awaken and start getting ready to continue their mission, Shepherd Balsim volunteers to help out the youth that arrive to do morning chores. One of the lads starts feeding the animals, the other accepts Balsim's help with milking the cows. It's not as easy as it looks, by the time Balsim gets one of the quarters of the udder empty, the other lad has finished three of the other cows. He is shortly draining the milk from the other side of the same cow as Balsim and says, "Help Gregory finish up feeding and then cleaning if you are still interested in helping."

The other Heroes get up over time and plans are discussed about asking the Farmer about the results of scrying and possibly attempting another scrying attempt on the girl.

Brom does a close range scouting, and a couple of the "guard dogs" growl at him, but don't really bother him too badly.

It takes about an hour or so for the lads to finish up their morning chores, "Dordin said to invite you to join us for a breakfast if you were still here when we finished up. So, you're invited to join us. It's usually just ham and eggs with a couple biscuits with honey."
The farm hands head back towards the main house, but head around to the back of it.
In back is the "summer" kitchen, where the smell of frying ham can be scented from around the corner of the house. (summer kitchen Highlight to display spoiler: { a full outside kitchen used in decent weather, here in the valley, that's almost all year long})
There is a young woman working the stove top and as you watch she opens the oven and pulls out a large sheet tray of biscuits.

Evaris (Kathy) 
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 10:30:49 PM

"Good morning," Evaris says, entering the summer kitchen. "Those do look good. May I give you a hand with them?" He gives the young woman his most winning smile, knowing that it's only a matter of time before Emrys shows up and casts him in the shade.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=33 ; d20+11=14 ;
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 10:52:02 PM

After a search of the perimeter, Brom doesn't see too much of interest. The farm is bustling with activity and the smell of the kitchen are easy to recognize from anywhere on the farm. Others help here and there, but Brom is more interested in locating the trail and is eager to begin the hunt again.

Perception DC 33, Survival DC 14

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73  d100=57 ;
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 11:46:31 PM

After waking up at twilight, Emrys meditates as he always do. Once he completes his magical constitutional, he searches and locates a simple forked twig. He begins to pray and invoke the all seeing eye of Eon. He then calls out to Sparkle in a low hushed tone ... seeking her essence.

(Leyline check: 57, pass. Casting Locate Creature. Concentrating on the images he witnessed of Sparkle. Area: circle, 760ft radius, centered on Emrys.)

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Tuesday January 24th, 2017 11:57:48 PM

Baslim enters the kitchen, and moves to wash the dirt from his hands in the sink. "That felt wonderful." He flexes his hands and rubs the callouses on his palm. "My upbringing was a bit softer than this, and I wish it did not chafe me so. I appreciate the opportunity."

He dries his hands and regards breakfast cooking on the stove. "Lass, may I be of help? My hands and my spells are here to bless this household."

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 1:18:02 AM

Lanliss will eat lightly from the breakfast and he will see what the group is planning.
Eager to know how long it will take till they find sparkle.

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 9:52:21 AM

Barratore hangs out with Brom for a bit and then moves over to Emrys as he casts his spell. The farm hands offer of breakfast is met with a wave and "Thank you but we need to be going." Shepard and Evaris seem to have a differing idea though. The minotaur snorts and paws a hoof upon the ground and heads to the back where they disappeared. Once there, he snorts loudly and folds his arms across his chest, "Sparkle might not have the time for you two to play at being farmers. Grab some if you want, but need to leave." Barratore wheels about and strides off to get Brom and Emrys and resume tracking down the poor dwarven girl and whomever else might have been taken.

Merrydale 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 1:12:34 PM

While the others are ready to sit down for a breakfast, Barratore sort of makes a decision for everyone by saying thanks, but there is a girl in need.

The Heroes grab some of the food that's portable and head for the road. In the daylight the heavy wheel tracks are easy enough to follow and after a couple hours, the village of Merrydale begins to come into view. The road here is much more traveled and has become more hard packed and the traces of the wagon's passage becomes harder and harder until there really isn't any trace of it's passage visible.
One side of the village is a hillside, with halfling homes built into it, the other side is open to the valley and more human style homes are built there. The few halflings and humans they encounter point the Heroes towards the center of town, and say to speak to Wilber.
In the center of the town is a Inn, over the doorway is a Cornucopia full of fruits and vegetables. As the group gets near a halfling steps out of the Inn, "Welcome to The Harvest Bounty, my name is Wilber Tundrasprout, what can I do for you? Need some breakfast?."
It's obvious that there is not a very large wagon in town, there aren't any buildings it could be stored in, except maybe the Inn, but then it wouldn't be an Inn.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65   d20+19=34 ;
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 3:01:03 PM

"Nah.. no breakfast needed. We just ate. " Edson says as he moves closer.

" We were told to speak with you. " he adds.

Perception 34

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 8:43:09 PM

Greetings Wilber. I am Velarin Xilontheel. We were hoping that you and the good people of Merrydale could be of some assistance to us. We are currently trying to locate a missing Dwarf girl that we believe may have been kidnapped. We have been following a set of rather large wagon tracks from the site of her disappearance, where we also met and rid the Wold of a nasty creature known to some as Deathbark. The wagons would have been pulled by a very large beast, much larger than horses. Are you able to provide us any insight in this matter? We also believe that another person has suffered the same fate as the Dwarven girl. Are there any amongst the people of Merrydale that have recently disappeared?

In addition, a spell we employed allowed us to see them. are there any large underground cave or underground complexes in the area?

Evaris (Kathy) 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 11:01:03 PM

Evaris also approaches the innkeeper, but Velarin has asked all the questions Evaris was wondering about, so he just waits to hear the answers.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 11:02:39 PM

Emrys wonders if his divination that he had cast had any results ... maybe so, because he finds himself heading down the road in Sparkle's direction. Thankfully his friends decided to follow along ... and they find themselves in Merrydale. "Zounds!!" he says with awe and wonder, "that spell was more powerful than I expected!"

DMJCC: Sorry.... Your spell went off, but before it could locate her, it felt like it hit a wall of some sort.... (like a non-detection type of magic, either spell or item possibly)

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Wednesday January 25th, 2017 11:58:19 PM

Baslim remains quiet. The others had spoken for the party, and there was little he could add to their words.

Merrydale 
Thursday January 26th, 2017 12:24:13 PM

Emrys, see Ed above.

Wilber listens as the questions are asked, his jaw drops with what looks like shock as he learns Deathbark has been destroyed. But he remains quiet through the entirety of the questions.
"Well, let me try to answer your questions in some sort of order....
First, I'm sorry to learn that there is a missing girl, be her a dwarf, halfling or any of our Noble races.
Large wagon track.... there are many wagons that travel the roads, and large is a matter of perspective, but to combine this question with one of your other questions, you must be following tracks left by Terl. He's the only wagon drover in the area that uses something other than horses or oxen, at least that is that large. There are a few halflings that use dogs and even one that uses an ostrich, believe it or not. Terl, uses a Wollymammoth to draw his... well, his wagon around.
As to missing persons, no one has mentioned anyone missing from the area that I've been informed of.
As a matter of fact, Terl spent last evening here and left shortly after dawn. He only informed us that the two children were safely delivered to the orphanage last month. He also brought a letter to me that was from from little Tavi, who I guess isn't so little anymore, stating he would like to move back but would need a sponsor.
Tavi was one of the first Terl took to the Orphanage, lets see... that was almost 10 years ago now I think.

Any thing else, I know you said you already ate, but The Harvest Bounty does have some of the best food in the Southern Valley. And you all having something to eat, will give me time to get the word spread about Deathbark's demise. I'm sure some of the locals will want to thank you personally for ridding the Wold of that menace."

Wilber waits for either more questions, and for a reply about getting some food.

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+10=16 ; d20+12=30 ;
Thursday January 26th, 2017 4:11:26 PM

Lanliss thinks about trying to intimidate Wilbert but he doesn't do that.
Instead he looks at Wilbert......Pauses and them remembers Hi.... It's you from our celebration Wilbert
Tundrasprout right.
He proceeds to say how much nice the celebration was only to go to the topic of Sparkle asking him 1 question.
If we were looking for someone who kidnapped her or a place that we might need to stay away from where we should look out for ?
Local knowledge 10
Diplomacy 30


Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Thursday January 26th, 2017 7:24:24 PM

Velarin listens to wilber as he responds to the questions, and the wizards over active brain starts to connect the dots that make themselves apparent to what he already felt he had an inkling of. Slaver, he thinks to himself. Transporting children to an "orphanage" without anybody else going, none would be the wiser if they just disappeared. Sparkle just happened to wander by him alone, and he saw the opportunity.

Velarin looks quickly to the others, wondering if anyone else picked up on the clues of convenience and circumstance laid before the group. In a rather hurried tone, and hoping the others notice that something has peaked his thoughts. Velarin once again speaks with Wilber.

"Thank you so much for the kind offer Wilber, but with the life of a missing girl at stake, we really must hurry. We will come back by here after we have found her, and gladly join you and any who wish to speak with us in a meal. You say Terl is only a couple of hours ahead of us? Do you know where he is going? Do you know where this orphanage is? Does he visit other villages and also take their orphans to the orphanage? How might be the quickest way to catch up to him?

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball, Summon monster 5, empower fireball, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere



Evaris (Kathy) 
Thursday January 26th, 2017 11:28:22 PM

"Tell me more about this orphanage," Evaris adds. "We are newly come to the area, and of course, if the institution does good work we might be interested in helping them out."

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) 
Thursday January 26th, 2017 11:39:19 PM

Brom listens to Wilber, but agrees with Velarin, time was of the essence. It looks as if the orphanage was going to be next stop for the group. The whole thing seem fishy at first glance.

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+4=18 ;
Thursday January 26th, 2017 11:51:48 PM

Barratore, oft referred to as Mr. Perception, perks a bit at the sudden change in V. He too then simply leans in and thanks Wilbur for the information and steps back outside

perception 18

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Friday January 27th, 2017 12:00:30 AM

ooc: Dang it. 30 seconds late.

Shepherd Baslim furrows his brow in thought. "This doesn't make sense..." He looks to the other party members for direction. He was not an city watchman by any means, and did not have a mind for investigations.

Merrydale  d20+13=14 ;
Friday January 27th, 2017 12:23:20 PM

Wilbur, "The Orphanage has been around for 25 or 30 years I guess, it's located in Jarlswolf, run by the Priests of Alemi. We here in Merrydale do what we can for the families here, but when tragedy strikes we are sometimes not able to care for any young that are left behind if there are no remaining family. Over the years, we've probably sent close to 20 to the Orphanage, of all the races that in the village. Terl helps us out by taking the orphans to Jarlswolf, because he rarely stays in one place very long. As to helping other towns, you'd need to ask them, but I expect so, he's a good man.
As to catching Terl, if you head towards Witchspawn down the western road, you can probably catch him. He doesn't usually rush too quickly unless he's after someone."

Wilber points in the direction of Witchspawn and which road you should follow.
As you get outside of town and the road becomes not so hard packed, signs of the big wagon once again appear on the road.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Friday January 27th, 2017 3:23:31 PM

As the group leaves town, Velarin relays his suspicions to the rest of the group.

"Perhaps Terl is responsible, and perhaps not. Currently, in my mind, all the arrows of suspicion point in his direction. If he is not responsible, then he may very well have information regarding sparkle or what transpired where we met deathbark. either way, it seems to me, that the quicker we catch him, the better. Anyone have anything to move us quickly overland so as to overtake him? I may need to acquire and start carrying a spell allowing me to summon horses for the party when quick transit is necessary."

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+17=34 ;
Friday January 27th, 2017 3:25:39 PM

Lanliss keeps a watching eye on the surroundings.
Lanliss asks Valerin what is it that he is so eager to go and see Terl and the orphanage.
Perception 34

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65   d20+3=4 ; d20+19=21 ;
Friday January 27th, 2017 11:39:01 PM

Edson heads with the others outside of town. Noticing the wheel marks, he begins looking for the wagon or anything else that sticks out. Perception 21

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Friday January 27th, 2017 11:52:37 PM

"It does sound like Terl is our man." Baslim keeps a steady metronome with his staff as he walks. "As the saying goes, 'If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck.... or a deviant wizard."

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=21 ;
Saturday January 28th, 2017 10:31:04 PM

All of what is said Brom agrees with. He really has no idea what other avenues could be possible for the missing girls. It was really beyond his pay grade and he left that level of thinking to the others. He stuck with what he was good at.

"After this Terl guy...?" He asked as if more as a statement than a question since that appeared to be the direction the others were headed in.

Perception DC 21

Evaris (Kathy) 
Sunday January 29th, 2017 8:11:09 PM

"If we want to move quickly, I have a Wind Walk spell," Evaris says. "Unfortunately, I can't get everybody with it. Maybe somebody else has something?"

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Sunday January 29th, 2017 11:56:56 PM

"And should be cooked like a duck." Barratore adds to Shepard's thought. The fighter agrees with Brom, everything he said and everything he didn't. "After this Terl guy brother and that aims us at Witchspawn down the western road. Then likely after the orphans and unto Jarlswolf,

Unfortunately that is about the extent of his usefulness. Until they actually caught up to someone or something, he was along for the walk. At Evaris' suggestion of magical transit he pipes up, "Take Brom and as many not me as you can, "I'll put some jog into my stride and be there as fast as I can"

Encounter on the Road 
Monday January 30th, 2017 12:03:25 PM

Shortly after the discussion about flying a trumpet is heard.
Know Nature DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { it was made by an animal}
Know Nature DC 24Highlight to display spoiler: { it was some sort of elephant}

The road ahead takes a corner around a grove of trees, Voices can be heard almost yelling at each other. As the Heroes get closer they start to make out what is being said.

Voice 1 (male voice) "This is our contract, get on your oversized mule and keep going!"
Voice 2 (very deep male) "{laughter} Listen RUNT!, when it's on the board, it's an OPEN contract {trumpet sound} that means we have the same rights as you losers."
Voice 1 "Calmly Brother."
Voice 3 (male squeaky voice) "Just 'cause we don't waist time wandering around don't give you the right to...{squeaks in fear} Keep your beast under control, or I'll take care of it permenently."
Voice 2 "Just because you are overstating your position don't get too full of yourself, and Boy can take care of himself. Just because He's smarter than you {trumpet sound again} {Belly Laugh} Yes Boy, the fact that one of your feet is as big as his head does scare him"

As the Heroes round the corner, they see what is obviously a two sided argument.

One side consists of 2 dwarves, and 2 humans or half-elves and the other side is a Minotaur and a wollymammoth.
One Dwarf is wearing a full suit of armor with at least 5 or 6 different weapons about his body, he seems to be voice 1. The other Dwarf is wearing basically only leather pants and has a pair of dwarven axes at his waist He has bright orange hair with bright blue runes on his body. The first human or half-elf is dressed in all leather with a long brown cloak, he has a sword and bow obvious as weapons, the other is in traveling clothes and has a quiver on his hip.
The other side is a a Wollymammoth that is covered in long shaggy brown fur and has a pair of curved tusks that are close to 10' long. He is pulling a wagon? It looks like a 10'x15' steel cage on giant steel wheels. Atop it there is a seat near the front along with a large box or chest. Next to the Mammoth is a Minotaur, you can see he has black and brown splotchy fur, a axe and sword are carried crossed on his back. He has a broken off horn, whose end has been replaced with a metal point of some sort. He is wearing a poncho, so if he has armor on, you can't tell.

As the group comes into view, the human in leather and the mammoth both notice the Heroes and before the man can say something, the mammoth trumpets again.

The Dwarf in armor is heard to say, "This ain't over yet." He then turns to the Heroes that is coming obviously down the road, "What do you want?" He seems angry over something and it shows in his question.



Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Monday January 30th, 2017 7:02:02 PM

Lanliss looks at the dwarf but doesn't speak, hopefully it won't get into a fight, he thinks for himself.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73  d20+24=25 ; d20+14=33 ;
Monday January 30th, 2017 7:44:17 PM

Emrys had silently listened to everything Wilbur had said and tries to determine if he was lying. (Sense Motive: 25, natural 1, lol)

Before they approach the armored dwarf, Emrys informs his friends that after he attempted his last divination, he determined that Sparkle is warded by spells that keep her undetected. "So unless this Terl guy is talented in the arcane, he will have a magical cohort."

(Knowledge [Nature]: 33)

"I hear our pachyderm!"

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Monday January 30th, 2017 7:45:01 PM

Velarin responds to the question. What do we want? We had wanted to have a chat with Terl, But since we are all here together, we would probably like to have a chat with you as well. We are investigating a girls disappearance, and the origin of at least one other person held in captivity with her. Who would like to go first? and please go on about these contracts you were discussing!

Evaris (Kathy)  d20+27=32 ;
Monday January 30th, 2017 8:43:21 PM

"And, since we have a contract of our own, and things are likely to get a bit muddled, it's perhaps best if we calmly discuss the situation," Evaris adds. "I'm sure we can all come to a mutual understanding."

[Diplomacy 32.]

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Monday January 30th, 2017 8:55:08 PM

Edson looks at Velarin. " Thats what we do now? Tell every nobody on a muddy road our plans? Sheesh.... " Edson says.

He moves off to the side, closer to Barratore. " Mind asking your kin what is going on here? And why didn't you get one of those pets. You got jipped."

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=31 ;
Monday January 30th, 2017 11:36:13 PM

Brom stands to the front of the group and watches the other two groups. He keeps a close eye on them and waits to for the reaction to the questions. He tries to maintain a neutral posture and let diplomacy work first.

Perception DC 31

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Monday January 30th, 2017 11:58:09 PM

Shepherd Baslim grips his holy book in one hand, and makes a small series of gestures with his fingers. He is ready to cast a spell to help dispel the quarreling, if need be.

ooc: Ready an action to cast calm emotions on the group at the first hint of physical violence.

Encounter on the Road 
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 12:48:59 PM

Brom gets the idea that one Dwarf is a probably a warrior, the other Dwarf is similar but without armor, the Human is a arcane caster, not sure if Wizard or Sorcerer, and the last is a Half-elf after getting a better look and is most likely a Ranger of some sort. The Minotaur is a Ranger, and appears highly proficient in that profession.
Evaris has the feeling that whatever dispute that is between the two groups is going to hinder a lot of conversation, mainly due to the fact that the armored Dwarf is actively holding the other Dwarf back and the other Dwarf is starting to draw both of his war axes. At the same time, the Wolly Mammoth uses one of his tusks to knock the wizard or Sorcerer to the ground and then pin him there.

The armored dwarf, "Go about your business we are already busy with our own." He yells in the Heroes general direction as he continues to hold back the other Dwarf and says to the Minotaur, "Call off your walking rug or I'll actually let my brother have at you."
In reply the Minotaur belly laughs and then says, "To do what, charge at me and miss, hitting his head against the iron bars of my little wagon? Last time it was almost an hour before he woke up."
At that the unarmored Dwarf yells and draws both war axes and tries to charge at the Minotaur. (Perception DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { The Dwarf started Raging})
The armored Dwarf is now leaning backward holding onto the leather harness the unarmored Dwarf wears, his feet are digging into the turf and helping to hold him back. The Minotaurs response is another laugh and the mammoth joins in with a trumpet blast from his trunk.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 6:05:59 PM

That did not have the desired effect I was looking for. I was hoping one or both parties would attack us or flee as an indicator of guilt or innocence. But since they seemed unconcerned about us, perhaps it might be prudent to let them finish their disagreement, and then clean up. If anyone has the spell to determine the character of these gentlemen, now might be a good time to find out which side is likely our preferred side. I see no reason not to let them beat the tar out of each other, as long as we try to make sure there are no deaths as a result. It sounds as if they are practiced at beating the tar out of each other.

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball, Summon monster 5, empower fireball, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere



Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=24 ; d20+14=34 ;
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 9:19:41 PM

Brom watches the scene begin to unfold and he decides these guys don't know diplomacy. He draws his jet black sword and takes several steps forward.

"Shut yer traps!" He shouts. "I tracked that dang elephant half way cross the valley, an now I'm gonna watch yer fightin'. I'm gonna beat the dwarf out of ya if ya don't answer my questions." He ends by taking several more steps forward and letting out a great challenging roar. Intimidate DC34 He stands ready to charge instantly at any acceptance of the challenge.

Intimidate DC34

Perception DC24

Evaris (Kathy) 
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 9:33:51 PM

Evaris opens his mouth to try once again to smooth things over, then thinks the better of it and shuts it again. His first effort hadn't been acknowledged; it's unlikely that a second effort would be any more successful. Might as well let Brom try his method.

Instead, Evaris calls out, "I can heal anyone who is injured. Please try not to kill each other."

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+5=16 ;
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 10:34:58 PM

Barratore snorts at Edson and answers, "Different village, we called that dinner" Barratore takes a few steps forward and draws his blade as Brom attempts to garner the attention of the two groups. For

Barratore's part, he attempts to look imposing by activating his family torc, Enlarge The 19', fully armored minotaur awaits the response from the arguing groups

Perception 16

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 10:54:27 PM

The point of reason as long been passed. Diplomacy is no longer a possibility, especially with the belligerent dwarf and the rowdy mammoth. Only magic can calm these brutes, but that's only a temporary solution. Maybe it's best for these good folk to get on with it and work it out of their system. They'll be more willing to listen to reason while licking their wounds.

"Maybe should just let them to have it out. I give 4 to 1 odds on the mammoth, does anyone want a piece of that action?" he says to no one in particular.

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Tuesday January 31st, 2017 11:35:32 PM

The Shepherd raises his hand toward the raging dwarf and intones a prayer. "O Alemi, hear my cry, Seat me by your side in death. Make me one within your glory. And let the world once more see your favor."

A soft white glow settles over the raging dwarf and those nearby.

ooc: Cast calm emotions. Will DC 22.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65   d3=1 ; d20+16=32 ; d4=2 ; d8+2=7 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 1:30:15 AM

" See... I knew this is how this would go down. " Edson says to no one in particular.

" You gone and made them angry" he calls to the two arguing groups. " Now you gotta deal with them. "

Edson moves 25' to the right of the group, draws his bow and takes aim at the arcane caster. If any movement or attack comes he unleashes.

Held attack, hit ac 32 7 dmg

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+17=22 ; d20+18=23 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 11:52:32 AM

Lanliss keeps an eye on the surroundings while trying to be stealthy in the soon to be battleground.
Perception 22
Stealth 23

Encounter on the Road  d20=19 ; d20=11 ; d20=2 ; d20=15 ; d20=3 ; d20=14 ; d20=7 ; d20=2 ; d20=4 ; d20=11 ; d20=13 ; d20=20 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 1:02:58 PM

Things are starting to escalate, it seems that the two other parties are more interested in continuing the heated discussion between themselves than listening very much to the Heroes that are attempting to join the conversation.
Brom draws his blade and shouts at both of the other groups, at the same time Barratore Enlarges himself and draws a weapon backing up the threat.
Evaris promises to heal those who get hurt if not dead....
Shepherd Balsim casts a spell.....

Things seem to collate around the two dwarves, the armored one manages to pull the other backwards just as the spell that was cast hits the general area of the argument. The results are both instant and in some cases surprising....
The raging dwarf stops raging and seems to for the moment at least, lose the will to fight. The Armored dwarf yells back, "Stay out of this, I had my brother handled."
The mammoth continues to pin the "Mage" and the Taur casually turns his head to look at the Heroes.

Then Brom's threat hits in force and the team of four seem to try and back off the belligerent attitude. The same can't be said for the Taur and Mammoth. The mammoth throws the Mage towards the ranger with a flick of it's trunk as it turns to face the Heroes. The Taur mean time enlarge as well. (perception DC 28 Highlight to display spoiler: { triggered a tattoo}) and a pair of weapons quickly appear in his hands, a medium sized Bastard sword and a hammer in the others.
"There's no need to get violent whoever you are, Dvarik's team and me been feuding over bounties ever since they started working the Valley a few years ago. In another 10 minutes, we'd have resolved our differences and gone our own ways. Now you all back down or there will actually be real blood drawn and spilled on this road."
Both the Taur and the Mammoth look ready to fight, but his words say there is more. The other team, is still regathering and reforming after the intimidation and the flying body of the Mage.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 4:48:15 PM

For a brief moment, V considers advising the bash brothers to have a go at the mammoth riding ranger, but his intellect quickly overrides his desire to see the man get his butt kicked. V steps forth to Brom and Barratore, and puts a hopefully calming hand on Broms shoulder. "Not yet my friend" he whispers towards the enraged barbarian. V wishes that one of the divine spellcasters had cast detect evil, but that does not appear to be the case.

Velarin then calls out to the other two groups. We have no desire for blood to be drawn when not necessary, but are willing to do so as required. Once again, we wish to speak with both of your groups regarding a matter that we believe to be more important than your personal disagreements. We are the Keepers of the Vale, and innocents have been abducted, something unpleasant is afoot, and we will not rest until the matter is resolved. What say you in a peaceful discussion?

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 8:47:53 PM

" Your bounties don't mean goblin scat to us. We're actually employes by people that matter and have actual titles and power. You heard my friend, Keepers of the Vale, remember it because if you do something stupid it'll be the last name you hear."

Edson keeps holding his shot but has changed from the mage to the minotaur.

Held attack Ac 32 7 dmg

Evaris (Kathy)  d20+27=35 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 8:55:21 PM

Time for more smoothing over. "I think what we mean to say is that we are not your rivals, but we would very much like to share information. Lives are at stake, so we would appreciate it if you could speak with us for just a few minutes."

[Diplomacy 35]

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+5=18 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 9:20:19 PM

Barratore breaks into a mild grin as the taur enlarges and the mammoth squares off on he and Brom. Bounty hunters, what kind of bounties could keep 2 teams busy in this relatively small valley. "Bounty Hunters eh??"Barratore almost continues his thought aloud, that they're slavers, but checks the words and simply holds his ground, weapon and casual grin.

V and Evaris and surely Emrys should be the ones to engage in the less aggressive negotiaions

Spell effects:
Enlarge Rnd 9/10

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73  d100=86 ; d20+24=39 ;
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 11:37:27 PM

Watching the mage become airborne, Emrys says to no one particular, "I told you. The mammoth wanted it more ... I could tell by the look in his eye."

Emrys casts a quick little spell (leyline check: 86, free cast. Casting Speak with Animals. Duration: 9min) and then steps up beside Barratore.

(Diplomacy: 39)
He begins to address the crowd, diplomatically. "You fine, good gentlemen, let us cool our tempers and calm our hearts. You are all champions of reason and wisdom, for sure. We meant absolutely no provocation by our questions. I humbly ask your forgiveness if you thought otherwise. Our quest is most paramount, the life of a dear dwarf child is at stake. Ones, like yourselves, can understand the urgency."

Emrys then looks at the mammoth and speaks to him in his animal language, "Dear mammoth, I have never looked upon one of your breed and witnessed such greatness and strength. It is an honor to meet you."



Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16  d20=11
Wednesday February 1st, 2017 11:59:04 PM

The Shepherd is disheartened to see his spell having little effect on the confrontation. He opens his mouth to voice his concerns and call for peace, but stops when Emrys speaks. There is little he could add to the sentiment, and instead stands beside Emrys and raises his hand. It glows with a soft white light, and shows that he is a Healer of Alemi.

Hopefully they are pious enough to listen to sense...

ooc: Aid Another on Emrys. Success.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=32 ;
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 10:29:56 AM

Brom eases as Velarin's hand touches his shoulder. But he looks directly at the minotaur and the mammoth, "You wanna go, I'm happy ta oblige ya. We can finish it after." He says with a smile.

Perception DC32

Encounter on the Road  d20=12 ;
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 1:14:59 PM

It's obvious from the the reactions of the groups that as long as they are in close proximity to one another, there isn't going to be a lot of cooperation. The mammoth while still facing the heroes, it's obvious that he is paying attention to the other four. The other four get assembled and have half their attention on each of the other groups.
The minotaur looks at Barratore and it seems as if he can hear the unspoken words, and his attitude drops about 30 degrees.
After Emrys speaks towards the mammoth, it slightly nods it's head, then there is a trumpet blast. Emrys Highlight to display spoiler: {It Speaks Terl, maybe no fight}

It seems that there is enmity between the two groups that is so intense that neither side can think very clearly when together.

Emrys Highlight to display spoiler: { in a version of the mammoth's language you can pick up from the minotaur to him, "maybe not, but that one is pressing my nerves" indicating Barratore}

The minotaur calls out, "Bounties might not mean much to you all, but they are official legal contracts in the Valley. Jarlsworth enforces the terms of them. I've heard that that there were new Heroes in the Valley again, If you continue greeting law abiding people this way, the Valley's people may just ask you to move on to somewhere else.
As to you Kid, if you wanna test your oats, I'll gladly show you what age and experience can do in a fight, even if Boy here just does watch."
He pats the Mammoth on the side of the head.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 4:29:39 PM

Emrys rounds to the front of Barratore and he looks up and gives his friend a knowing smile and a wink. He then turns around and addresses the large minotaur and his even larger mammoth. With a bold, yet friendly tone, he replies, “Yes sir, we understand the value and honor of a contract. Could you please talk with us for a little while so that we may learn from your experience … we being new to the valley, we would greatly value your knowledge and opinion … and we’d be willing to pay for your time. Here, let’s take a comfortable spot here on the side of the road so these honored gentlemen can be on their way.”

Emrys hopes his little hint to Barratore wasn’t too subtle.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 5:47:39 PM

Edson knew the fight was about to go down. No one challenged Barratore and didn't end up atleast picking up their teeth if not more. Edson just shakes his head still holding the attack for any movement from the minotaur or Mammoth.

Held attack hits ac 32 7 dmg

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 7:38:58 PM

Velarin says nothing at this point in time, waiting for Emrys to smooth things over and begin discussions

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 9:18:52 PM

Barratore looks down the Emrys and then back to the mammoth and tauric bounty hunter. He had no idea what Emrys' wink meant and he was still very unconvinced of the whole bounty hunter story. Barratore would try to follow the bards lead though and it seemed to be indicating that at least he and the taur should move off to the side. So Barratore takes a few dozen strides in the direction Emrys indicated. It also occured to him that he had not introduced himself and so he does as he moves.

"I am Barratore Steelwind of the Starlight clan. My friend Emrys is correct. We should speak in private and let the dwarves be on their way."

Evaris (Kathy) 
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 10:08:18 PM



Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Thursday February 2nd, 2017 11:04:17 PM

"Fine then!" Baslim makes a disgusted gesture of dismissal with his arms. "Whatever! Beat each other senseless. I'LL HEAL YOU ANYWAY! Just get the pissing contest over with."

He huffs dejectedly and speaks low to Emrys. "I used to have more patience for hotheads like this. Used to try to talk sense into them. Now I know they're just big kids who are playing king-of-the-playground and need to blow off some steam before they will listen to reason."

Encounter on the Road 
Friday February 3rd, 2017 12:16:14 PM

post will be later this afternoon, sorry for the delay

JCC

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Friday February 3rd, 2017 12:42:34 PM

Lanliss keeps himself in a ready position waiting to see what happens.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=23 ;
Friday February 3rd, 2017 1:40:09 PM

Brom puts his sword back in its hanger. "I did what I wanted. Ya stopped fightin' an' yer talkin' ta us. Job done...but don't think fer a second I wouldn't throw down...and old don't means more experienced.

"We're lookin' fer a gnome girl names Sparkle. Like I said before, she ran into you and I've been trackin' yur trail from where she disappeared. We're lookin' for information."

Perception DC23

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged) 
Friday February 3rd, 2017 1:44:13 PM

"Names Brom." He says remembering some of the discussion with Barratore about introductions and minotaurs.

Encounter on the Road 
Friday February 3rd, 2017 7:14:04 PM

The Heroes split the two parties and divide up to keep them apart.
Brom obviously stays with the minotaur. At the accusation of taking the girl, the minotaur is obviously straining not to just lash out and thump the person who just accused him. "Ain't seen no little gnome girl, saw humans mostly in Jarlswolf and Magpie Crossing and saw both humans and halflings in Merrydale. As for tracking me, I doubt except where the road is hard packed, it's too difficult to track a five ton wagon with Boy here pulling it. At least once you know what it is you're following. No idea where her path and ours might have crossed, but never saw whoever it is you're following.I go by Terl, have gone by it for many years."
The other group of four mingles, unhappy, but seeing that Terl seems to be talking about something, they just wait for the questions.

(If you want specifics, make your skill rolls please.)

Sorry for the post being 7 hours late.... today was shopping day.

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Friday February 3rd, 2017 10:33:39 PM

ooc: My children have lovingly shared their sickness with me. I will be posting tomorrow morning after a good night's sleep. Bleh.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65   d20+19=34 ;
Saturday February 4th, 2017 10:41:00 AM

Edson just keeps his arm tight, ready to let the arrow fly. His eyes scan around quick to make sure no other people are hiding or ready to attack.

Perception 34

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20=11 ; d20+5=6 ;
Saturday February 4th, 2017 11:10:02 AM

Barratore sheathes his weapon and dismisses the Enlargement spell upon himself. Looking back towards Edson he waves off the nervous man. "Terl, Brom and me are plain talkers. A dwarf farmer came to us about his daughter, Sparkle. We back tracked route towards Magpie and ran into Deathbark. After destroying the tree, we discovered Sparkle's hair ribbon nearby and a set of large boots. " Barratore gestures to his own hooves,
"Obviously not yours, but your wagon trail was fairly new through the area as well. Brom tracked you and a farmer a bit back mentioned you by name and and so we kept going. Farmer mentioned you also help orphans and so again here we are. You know any large booted creatures that might take a dwarf girl and human male and where any underground locations could be to hold them?"

Barratore is no diplomat and outside of dungeon hazards and how to build a better wall, he does not have much to offer in puzzling things through or ferreting out information.

Know Local 11
Perception 6


Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16  d20+23=33 ; d20+19=29 ;
Saturday February 4th, 2017 4:06:44 PM

Shepherd Baslim approaches the group of four. "Pardon me, gentlemen. I know blood is running hot, but a little girl's life may be at stake. We are looking for a girl, named Sparkle, who disappeared a few days ago. Have you seen or heard anything?"

ooc: Sense Motive 33, Diplomacy 29.

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Saturday February 4th, 2017 7:10:32 PM

Velarin is about to chime in when Barratore puts it forth bluntly and to the point, and V believes that it is probably best in this scenario to let the warriors have their discussion.

Moving over towards where Shepherd has approached the other four, and adds in mostly what Barratore has asked Terl. "Know of any large underground locations that might serve as a bit of a jail, or hear rumor of any slavers or the like? Out of curiosity, what are these bounties you were speaking of, and who issued them?"

Encounter on the Road 
Monday February 6th, 2017 12:55:33 PM

Barratore, Brom and Velarin will be refered to as Group A until the Heroes reform.
Sheperd Balsim and Evaris will be Group B.
Edson and Lanliss will be Group C.

Group C, watching for actions from the two seperated parties and from the area in general, currently don't notice anything that should alarm them.

Group A:
Terl listens as Barratore and Velarin speak and ask questions. "Well, Boy and I saw the posting of the "Bounty" actually I guess it's just a posting of a notice of a reward. I do do work for various Sheriffs when they need it, so calling it a Bounty is just a habit.
We are looking for a Mage, his family posted the notice after he'd been missing for a couple days. We left Jarlswolf headed for Magpie Crossing but then headed towards Merrydale and wound up here following the trail.
There are no big underground caverns that Boy or I have found in the years of chasing around the Valley hunting criminals."


Group B:
The armored Dwarf speaks to Shepherd Baslim, "Damn Terl and his overgrown beast, he's always trying to butt in on Bounties that we are chasing, at least here in Cinnamon Valley. Let me introduce my Team to you, My name is Dvarik the Red, this is my brother Drask the Axe. Jow Willow is our on the spot tracker and Alonzo Farseer is our fourth.
We picked up the Bounty in Jarlswolf late last yesterday afternoon, we went to the home of the missing Mage, His name is Wilcox. While there Alonzo picked up one of his spare hats. He used it to scry on him, after a few hours of making sure of the location he teleported here. When we arrived, Terl and his beast were already here. I'll let Alonzo tell you what he saw."

Alonzo speaks in a hoarse whisper, you notice that he has damage to his neck that looks years old. "It took a hour or so to get focused in on the hat's owner, what I saw was the guy we were looking for bound hand and foot as well as gagged under a tree near a campfire. It was nondescript so took me a few more attempts scrying before I felt it was safe enough to bring us here."
Dvarik speaks up again, "Well, when we arrived safely thanks to Alonzo, Mage Wilcox was already gone and Terl was in the process of getting his oversize polo pony rehooked up to he beast carrier to move on wherever what he might have found lead him to."

Our Heroes are gathering some information, but are they getting all they can from everyone?


Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Monday February 6th, 2017 4:34:19 PM

Barratore chuckles and nudges Brom, "Do do" He chuckles again and works on composing himself under the glares that are likely being sent his way. "Wonder if the mage was the other guy we saw in the spell with Sparkle?" Barratore muses out loud.

"So what trail are you tracking Terl? You and Brom should compare notes."



Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Monday February 6th, 2017 6:59:03 PM

After hearing what little Terl has to say, Velarin goes over to group B to compare notes, and asks Alonzo "How long ago was your scry attempts? was it day or night when you scryed, and the same with the vision you saw? When we find our Dwarf lass, We will find the mage as well, and we care nothing of bounties. Help us out a little more here"

After hearing further what they have to say, Velarin will cast detect magic, and have a good look at all the assembled peoples, specifically interested in Terl, his wagon, and the chest. V still believes Terl to be suspect number one, and his chest or wagon could very well contain an extra dimensional space used to house prisoners.

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Monday February 6th, 2017 7:14:00 PM

I guess now everything is alright, Lanliss thinks for himself.
Lanliss keeps quiet and sees how things will unfold and wonders about who is going to get the rewards if the two groups of bounty hunters seek the same bounty.

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+17=22 ; d20+11=15 ;
Monday February 6th, 2017 7:16:00 PM

"Bet he is. Responds Brom to Barratore's statement. He continues to listen, but something in the other discussion catches his ear (Perception DC 22). He says to Terl after he is done speaking "We left Magpie Crossing and found your trail where it left the road and where we found signs of the gnome girl. We followed it to here." Brom looks as if he's thinking. "Did you find a campfire around here?"

Survival DC 15

Evaris (Kathy)  d20+25=27 ;
Monday February 6th, 2017 7:42:04 PM

Evaris rubs his head, which is beginning to pound. "You are looking for someone," he says to the dwarf. "We are also looking for someone. You, I gather, are looking for someone because he has broken the law. We are looking for someone because she is missing and her father is worried to death. We did some scrying of our own, and saw our girl tied up. Another man, also a prisoner of some sort, was there as well. This might be your missing mage. It might not."

He takes a deep breath, striving for calm. "I understand that your group and Terl are rivals, and that you are pursuing the same bounty. I need you to understand that we are not pursuing a bounty. We are not your rivals. And, as a servant of Pantheon, I would be more than happy to negotiate some kind of agreement between you and Terl, if you are interested. I understand this is very important to you. It is, after all, how you make your livelihood."

"But please understand, we are looking for somebody who may be in grave danger. Every moment we waste here is putting her at greater risk. I don't want to be dismissive of your bounty, but could we, perhaps, lay the question aside for the moment, in the interest of saving a life? And before you ask, yes, I will be asking the same question of Terl."

[Diplomacy 27. Damn.]

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Monday February 6th, 2017 11:10:37 PM

Edson sighs and releases the tension and lowers his weapon.

" This is just weird, Lanliss" Edson says. "Keep your eyes open."

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Monday February 6th, 2017 11:35:34 PM

Baslim listens intently, nodding his head in thought as the dwarven brothers and the mage speak.

He notices Velarin casting a spell while staring at the wagon. He raises an eyebrow. "Say now... has anyone thought whether the missing mage may no longer be missing?"

Encounter on the Road 
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 12:15:36 PM

Group A loses a member who moves over to Group B.

Group A:
Terl responds, "Actually you probably found where Boy and I cut the corner, we had been headed towards Magpie Crossing when the trail cut south, so we cut cross country and rejoined the road to Merrydale. Headed back west through town and wound up here. As to a camp fire, Aye, there's one about 100 paces off the road in a thick grove of trees, actually a pretty good location if you don't want to be seen."
Sense Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {He's still not being very helpful, but you haven't made very good friends with him either}

Group B:
The discussion continues, Evaris mentions something about criminals and Dvarik speaks up, "Nay, we are not hunting a criminal, his co-workers posted a notice about a reward for finding him. I, as this groups leader understand you are searching for a girl. As said before we know nothing about a missing girl. As to Terl, The Valley is the only region bo he and us work, we work mainly in the Cinnamon Valley, Rowena, and Effacia regions. Terl was working a Bounty in the Scab when my brother and me first met him. We've had a few partners over the years, but our Team has been steady for the last couple years."
Velarin casts detect magic and looks over at the wagon. He does detect a bit of magic. The lock on the gate, three of the pairs of manacles and the tarp that is being used like an awning radiate as magic.

Group C:
Perception DC 25 or Know Nature 18 Highlight to display spoiler: {The birds outside the immediate area of the groups, are making noise as normal, so apparently The Heroes and the Bounty Hunters are the only thing they are not used to in the area.}
Keeping as careful a watch as you can, you notice nothing that alerts you to danger.



Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 4:20:51 PM

Let me ask then, what is Terl's reputation in the area to both the people in general, and to you?

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+5=19 ;
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 9:32:52 PM

Barratore listens to Terl, and nods in agreement to the minotaur's explanation of basically everything. "Brom we should investigate the camp site, see if there is anything we can work off of."

Barratore hollers to the others, he was done talking or listening to Terl. there was nothing amiss here as ar as he was concerned. "We ready to go?"

perception 19

Evaris (Kathy)  d20+25=32 ;
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 10:15:55 PM

Evaris tries again. "As I said, we did some scrying of our own, and saw the missing girl held prisoner. There was a male prisoner there, too. I understand that you don't know specifically about a missing girl. Is there a reason you think the man with her definitely isn't the mage you're after? Because from where I stand it seems like we're working the same case from different angles. And since my friends and I have no interest in your bounty, there's no reason not to work together on this."

[Diplomacy 32. Sigh.]

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+11=17 ;
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 11:13:27 PM

Brom agrees with Barratore. He gives Terl a nod and a thanks for the info before heading off to the campsite. He looks around to find tracks around the site.

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73  d20+24=34 ; d20+24=44 ;
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 11:33:36 PM

(Sense Motive: 34. Diplomacy: 44, natural 20)

Even though he is sighing and rolling his eyes on the inside, 'are you kidding me, get on with it you blatherskite,' he thinks to himself. He doesn't let any of that show, Emrys gives off the opposite impression that he is totally and completely fascinated by Terl's words.

"Pardon my change of subject, but I must say, you have an amazing speaking voice! I could listen to your deep, melodic tones for hours. Have you trained in spoken word, you would make an wonderful orator. So sorry I interrupted your story, but I simply had to say. Please go on, tell us more!"



Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Tuesday February 7th, 2017 11:51:53 PM

Shepherd Baslim thins his lips. "Hmm... magic on the lock? Perhaps we should see if we can convince this minotaur to show us the interior. I get the feeling there is more than meets the eye."

Encounter on the Road, conclusion....  d20=19 ; d20=4 ; d20=7 ; d20=8 ; d20=18 ;
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 11:49:33 AM

Group A:
With Emrys making nice to Terl with just a little diplomacy he opens up just a bit more than he had before. "The encampment, it's behind that grove right there," and Terl points out a small grove of Glittermint Trees, "The Mage was held there, probably bound as I found remnants of frayed rope, and he was left there alone a day or two. Then a very large person arrived with a second prisoner. Found a spot where a second person was set down for a while as the Mage was fed and rebound. Then the large person picked them both up it looks like and left heading towards Witchspawn. I was just breaking camp after reinspecting the camp site in the daylight when Dvarik and his crew arrived. We were discussing the finer points of who gets to collect any rewards when you all walked around the corner and insinuated I had kidnapped some girl."
Terl, done speaking trumpets something to Boy. (speak with Animal Highlight to display spoiler: {Lets just get packed up, maybe we will still be able to collect, if not, I heard there's new posting in the Scab, on the plus side, Dvarik won't be working there.})
Brom and Barratore head towards the grove of Glittermint and do indeed see a campsite that looks like it's been unused for at least a day. Also their combined efforts seem to verify what Terl told them, including that the trail looks to be headed towards Witchspawn.

Group B:
Drask speaks up before his brother can, "That fool is too nice to the people he works around. It's hard enough to get them to respect us and I hear he donates to that Orphanage up in Jarlswolf, we got bills to pay, it's not cheap...", He gets cut off by Dvarik, "Shut up Drask, these people don't care how much spell materials cost, they have their own worries. As to working together, sorry, even though you may not want the reward, the parties who offered it, would divide it between the groups and we'd make nothing on the search. I think we'll just cut our losses and let you find them. He could have been who you saw in your vision, but only a day ago, he was tied up under a tree. So you can do the time line as well as I can."

Shepherd Balsim goes to the wagon and examines it, the gate is unlocked currently so he opens it and sees nothing inside by looking through the doorway just the same as looking through the bars. The magic on the manacles and lock are both enchantment type magic.

The Heroes reform on the road, the Group of Four gather and teleport away, and terl finishes breaking his camp, and getting Boy re-hitched to the front of the wagon. "Good Luck." Terl says and continues towards Witchspawn.

Where are the Heroes headed now.... They have the Valley mostly to the north of them, it may not be very big, but even the Valley is huge when looking for what now seems is two missing people.....

Handing of DM duties to my Partner, you'll be back in my nefarious clutches in the future.... Muuhhahaaa....Ooops, I mean I'll be back to DM you in a few weeks.

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 1:10:41 PM

Edson looks one last time before moving over with the bigger group. "Good news?"

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 7:20:25 PM

Alright then. Apparently my suspicions were unfounded. Like i've said in the past, I often over think things. Well done on getting Terl chatty Emrys, it worked like a charm. From what we know, it seems like we have a new target and a direction. Brom, Barratore, do you have a trail for us to follow?

If this creature is camping at night, perhaps a flight in the dark might help locate a campfire. Although, I only have one fly spell memorized, and that might not be enough to catch up to him. Emrys, do you think another scry spell this evening would be of help in determining his possible location at that time?

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball, Summon monster 5, empower fireball, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere



Evaris (Kathy) 
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 9:55:16 PM

"You have a Fly spell, Friend Velarin, and I have a Wind Walk," Evaris says. "I think between the two of us we can get everyone moving quickly--if that's what we want."

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+1=17 ;
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 10:56:39 PM

Barratore is rather pleased with himself at having assisted in the search about the abandoned camp. His survival and perception skills were coming along, slowly to be sure, but coming along. "Looks like we are heading towards Witchspawn."
Local Knowledge 17

"When we looked yesterday they were underground and you said the spell was halted. As in by whatever took 'em. Can we run the spell again?" Barratore thinks a bit and then adds, "Can we do any divination against our foe who took 'em?"



Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Wednesday February 8th, 2017 11:09:41 PM

"Well, at least there was no bloodshed." Baslim shifts his grip on his staff. "But I can't say I'm happy with their bullheaded interaction." He brushes off the dust from his robes and breathes deeply, blowing out the air to clear his mind. "Let's go."

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 7:44:50 PM

Unfortunately evaris, a fly spell only works for 1 person per spell. I could do one person, or wait until morning and do quite a few. If I took enough for everyone in the morning, my offensive capacity would be significantly reduced. How many people can your wind walk do?

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+17=25 ;
Thursday February 9th, 2017 8:22:21 PM

Lanliss keeps listening to the group but doesn't comment on anything.

On The Road from Merrydale to Witchspawn. (SteveK) 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 9:51:39 PM

There is a bit of debate on the heroes using shank's mare (i.e. Walking) or using a spell to get to Witchspawn faster. The debate continues, thankfully away from the eyes and ears of the two bands of bounty hunters.

(OOC: DM will take a majority decision)

Emrys Myrridanmyl, stephen f. ac10 hp73/73 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 10:45:33 PM

"Thanks, Velarin. A few well said words do work like a charm. By the sound of it, Terl and Boy are still looking to collect, if not they're heading to the Scab, apparently other opportunities await there."

When the party starts talking about travel plans, Emrys offers up his own.

"I do have a mode of travel that we all can take advantage of. We'll still be walking, but our strides will cross a greater distance in a much shorter time. It means taking a shortcut along the Shadow Realm!"

(ie. The Shadow Walk spell)

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 11:18:08 PM

"Doesn't seem right that whatever has the captives could have made Witchfall. I think we should stay in the Wold and track 'em" Barratore looks to Brom to back him up on this

Brom the Barbarian - Rich P; AC: 25 (T 14, FF 25, Raged 23), CMD: 31 (34 Raged); HP: 114/140 (176 raged); DR 2/- (5/- raged)  d20+11=25 ;
Thursday February 9th, 2017 11:29:04 PM

Brom agrees with Barratore. "We follow the trail. We only know their headed that way," he says pointing in the direction the trail goes, "we don't know how far it goes. We move to Witchspawn, we got no trail."

Survival DC25

Evaris (Kathy) 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 11:45:26 PM

"Well, then, perhaps we'll need to travel the slow way after all," Evaris says. "The trackers have a point; toward Witchspawn is not the same as to Witchspawn."

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Thursday February 9th, 2017 11:48:28 PM

"I agree. Stay in the flesh and track them."

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65  
Friday February 10th, 2017 8:26:07 AM

" Yeah lets follow on foot. That way we guarentee not to miss anything and cause us to lose time. "

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Friday February 10th, 2017 8:26:17 AM

Fair enough, I suppose they could easily head in a different direction along the way, or have a hidden entrance to a cave or other type of lair. Lead on Brom

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25 
Friday February 10th, 2017 8:51:01 PM

Lanliss thinks for aoment and says, it's better to stay in this realm then go to a totally different realm even if it takes longer.

Shepherd Baslim (Tanner) HP 131 -- AC 13/10/13 -- F+16 R+9 W+19 -- CMD 16 
Friday February 10th, 2017 11:51:27 PM

ooc: check

On The Road to Witchspawn. (SteveK) 
Saturday February 11th, 2017 8:31:30 AM

"better to stay in this realm then go to a totally different realm even if it takes longer." Lanliss said it last, but the majority of the Keepers feel likewise, with even Velarin acknowledging the point. And so, with Brom in the lead to occasionally confirm the trail is still on the road, the heroes walk on.

It is only a hundred paces or so to where the heroes see another road on the right go towards the north. Any hero with a little knowledge of the Valley (know Local or Know geography 5) know that the road goes down into the valley of Windtree Creek and back up again to meet the Jarlswolf-Magpie road at the mysterious Pillar of Cnut. At the break in the trees given by two roads meeting, the volcano of Glitterox is clearly seen to the north-east.

But Brom can clearly see the trail on the road continues to go towards Witchspawn. And the heroes walk on.

The road from Merrydale towards Witchspawn is a hard-packed dirt path wide enough for two wagons to pass; much like the other major roads in Cinnamon Valley. On the left, the Culverwood marches hard upon the road-berm, probably making Emrys extra happy to be so close to his home turf. :-). On the right, it is more forest, but after an hour or two of walking, the land slopes downward to the right. Eventually, the heroes can clearly hear the gurgle of Windtree Creek and the sharpened can catch the occasional glimpse of water spray over rocks (Perception 25). And the heroes walk on.

It is late afternoon, less than an hour of sunlight left when the heroes cross an old but sturdy bridge over Windtree Creek and arrive at another crossroads. (know Local or Know geography 5). Obviously, the Merrydale road has met with the Witchspawn-Jarlswolf road. Here, tucked ion a triangle of good land between road and Creek and to the east of where the heroes stand is a dilapidated tower and building. It appears there used to be a low wall around it that only pieces remain.

As they watch, the vine-covered tower finally collapses, but there is a scream! A boy runs up the road from the ruin towards the group, dust and dirt from head to foot. He doesn't seem to see the heroes until he is within Barratorre's reach and then stops in alarm.

Evaris (Kathy) 
Saturday February 11th, 2017 11:30:25 PM

Evaris steps forward. "What just happened?" he asks the boy. "Is anyone hurt?"

Lanliss HP88/88 AC:26 touch:19 flat:18 cmd:25  d20+5=23 ; d20+17=36 ; d20+5=7 ;
Sunday February 12th, 2017 9:33:15 AM

Lanliss keeps calm and waits for Evaris to talk with the boy.

Local knowledge 23
Perception 36
Local knowledge 7

Edson Kazil - Shawn R; AC: 28 (T 21, FF 20), CMD: 24 HP: 65/65   d20+19=25 ;
Sunday February 12th, 2017 11:53:22 PM

Edson was going to say something to the boy but instead heads for the tower.

" Anyone in there?" He yells. " Anyone?"

Perception 25

Barratore Steelwind (Dan K) AC: 32 (T 15 FF 27), CMD:33; HP: 102/135 Character Sheet  d20+5=9 ;
Monday February 13th, 2017 11:56:38 AM

Barratore knows the valley well enough to know where the roads lead and the lsrger towns. He mentions the paths to Brom, though it is more of just conversation than information. Brom surely knows just as much if not more than he.

The running child causes Barratore to side step to the right and pull his bow. He scans the dust cloud, sweeping his gaze from right to left

1rank know local allows take 10
Perception 9

Velarin Xilontheel(Chris J), AC 17(FF 14), hp 76/76, extended mage armor(24 hrs) 
Monday February 13th, 2017 7:42:45 PM

Velarin waits a moment for the boy to tell us if we are about to launch a rescue effort.

Memorized Spells:
1st: Protection from evil, Identify, Mage armor(extended)-C, Shield, Magic Missile, Magic missile, Magic missile
2nd: Invisibility, Bulls strength, Mirror image, Scorching ray, See Invisibility, Knock
3rd: Fireball, Haste, Dispel Magic, fireball, Dispel Magic, Fly
4th: Dim Door, Black Tentacles, Empower Scorching ray, greater invis., empower scorching ray
5th: Empower Fireball, Summon monster 5, empower fireball, Wall of force, Teleport
6th: Chain lightning, Greater dispel magic, Freezing Sphere


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