Yappa's Princes of the Apocalypse

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 2 – HOMEWARD BOUND
PLAYER(S): LaxKnight , edtosivaree

((Thanks for putting your intended skill check in your summary Lax. Edto I’m basing these checks on interpreting your post. Good examples of two of the three ways to make a roll in this game. (The third being one I make automatically without the player triggering it first, like an unexpected reflex save for example).

The perception checks were initiated before this post, meaning they do not suffer Disadvantage from the fog. Perception checks after this post now will.))

MERI WISDOM (PERCEPTION) CHECK: (1d20+4) (14) [18]
NIVARA WISDOM (PERCEPTION) CHECK: (1d20+2) (16) [18]
NIVARA INTELLIGENCE (ARCANA) CHECK: (1d20+6) (13) [19]

Meri and Nivara both peered into the thickening fog in search of a sourse, but could not detect any overt origin of the unnatural obscurity. ((Try saying that five times fast…)) The landscape was serenely still and quiet. By all appearances, the two of them were the only people around. It was almost as if nature randomly decided to ignore its own rules just for the heck of it.

However, the wary dragonborn knew better than that. Suspecting a more magical explanation, she fell back on her arcane teachings and reasoned that, based on the admittedly limited effects she could witness, if magic was indeed the cause this was unlikely to be some random side-effect of the land. It would have to be a deliberate act generated by someone or something capable of harnessing elemental water magic. Something powerful too, based on the scale.

By now the fog had grown thick enough that the sunlight caused it to glow, giving the effect that the two unlikely companions were traveling through some sort of cloudy, heavenly dreamland. It wasn’t bright enough to be blinding or even so much as force them to squint, but it did obscure vision somewhat. It was similar to someone without darkvision trying to see in dim light, except in this case the darkness was white instead of black.

[Faclan]

(I believe Gonff is now in front of Shirtless guy, near where he wanted to be, so yey speech time.)

Chapter 1
Gonff, Mousefolk Bard - on the big ol Stone Bridge
Peace speech Hippy Mouse.

Frowning as he was bundled off with Doran and his sons to be in front of the apparent Ring Leader of this...group. Didn't want to say bandits yet but they were sure acting awfully suspicious at the moment. Gonff fully aware of the coinpurse on his person that had a bit of his 155 gold pieces in it. Eager to be taken by them if they turned out to be robbers. He had to give it to them though it was an elaborate set up if they were just muggers. Getting themselves a cart and the crossbows needed to pull this off was pretty good. But the position he was in now did give him the advantage of being right in front of this shirtless Human as he prattered on about how they needed to hurry up. The Bard taking the time to try and examine his face, see if he was lying or otherwise misleading them, looking for the tells he had come to be very familiar with in Human faces...

[Dunno if that would be a Perception (6(+2 Wis) or Persuasions (6(+4 Cha) for what I would guess would be an old diplomacy or sense motive check]

Irregardless of what he saw or didn't see there were a lot more people here besides this shirtless one. Not only in the possible bandit carts with the crossbows but also within his own group that may want to start trouble when he, Doran, and his Sons were all very much in the danger zone. So he had to try and calm everyone down. So with a deep breath and reaching into his Bardic knowledge he stood up, paws still up to his shoulders, as he started to speak.

[Bard spell check, Charisma based with a 14(+6 attack bonus) DC (I think D: ) for Calm Emotions, lasts 1 minute per Bard level (3 mins), 20 foot range from Gonff, and suppresses strong emotions in a group, no hostile actions as well as not being able to be charmed or frightened. Charisma saving throw success will completely resist the spell. Everyone is affected except Gonff - sorry allies D: ]

[Whilst also trying a normal persuasion check of 6(+4) to try and make the possible bandits put away crossbows and just ask the questions, if I can do two checks at once. But the speech is more of a cover for the spell as he tries to persuade people.]

"Friends, there's no need for all of this here! Not in such a historic and important piece of ancient architecture. Surely it would be much easier for everyone if the weapons were put away? You don't want out answers to hastened, worried, or incorrect because we are too high-strung." A breath for air and to hopefully let the joke get some responses, those crossbows still a big danger. "Not all of us are needed to give your strong fellows more people to try and watch are we? If you just ask your questions now in a nice clear voice if any of us can help you we would surely be more than happy too so this can indeed be done with a quickly as possible without everyone having to get out and inconvenience you further. Being such a well mannered and fit individual like yourself we would be happy to help you without the extra influence if your friends weapons."

With his little spiel done Gonff took a bit to breath and hoped that would work...


Summary: Attempted to sense the motive of Shirtless man, before launching into a speech about trying to calm people down so the crossbows would hopefully be put away as well as casting Calm Emotions, if can do both at the same time.

[Zenith]

Chapter 1: WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY

Morgana Cromren, Human Fighter/Currently a Bar Maid

Traversing the Stone Bridge

In Good Health - To comply or not to comply?

----

For a moment there could be only a tense air about the wagon as one could feel the multiple crossbows trained on their head. Morgana none the less had stayed within the wagon for the time being as at least here she would have some cover from the bolts if they fired. It was if anything a true to form standoff. Yet as the woman watched the scene from inside her wagon a voice caught her ear. She would look down to find the mousefolk bard who with a softvoice began to speak on what he was about to do. "I will assure the caravan will not leave without you, but I cannot promise that this bandit scum is willing to heed the slightest word you wish to say." She hissed low under her breath "If it comes down to it however know I will brave a hail of bolts to bring you to safety bard. On my honor."

The words of a Knight.... The idea itself made Morgana hang her head. She could do nothing unarmed here...much like she could do nothing on the night she had first met the sort of scum of the Earth that would rob innocent travelers. She had never truly forget what she saw on that day nor did she forgive. The acts committed then were acts of barbarism as well as cruelty. Assuming these bandits were the same as the rest they were not better than a pack of jackals waiting to strip the flesh off a dying animal. This train of the thought however would be broken by the awakening of the sleeping man on the floor from earlier whom she believed went under the name of "Abel Hawthorne".

He was rather strange describing himself as a "agent of Mirabar" and seemingly having no apparent goal upon reaching his destination. He did however deserve the truth of the situation rather than having to find out himself. "We have been stopped unfortunately. I can only assume the worse of the men who have stopped us, but none the less we shall soon have to find out if my fears are correct." She said quietly as soon she found her waterskin being passed back to her by the man from earlier who would proceed to make a comment out of how they were about to be robbed. Well at least one could not say this company she had now lacked any attempt at humor in a bleak situation. 

She would stand before carefully gathering her things, taking care to pick up the oddly large roll of bedding that was beside it. One complete she would sling it over her shoulder and step towards whatever fate awaited her outside the wagon. The sun gave the breeze a warm feel as she made her way towards the shirtless man and Gonff. As she did she would bring the bed roll closer to herself, her eyes darting back and forth from one attacker to another as she did. "I ask of you as to know why out of anyone would you wish to stop us from going on our way? Surely a bandit could find better prey than a wagon of stragglers just trying to make their way in the world. There must be some other reason then simple robbery least you would have already fired the crossbows of yours and have been done with it." She asked attempting to keep the air of being a simple bar hand. "There must be more to this then simply emptying our pockets, so tell me what might this be about?"  
---

(Summery: Taking with others about the current situation before exiting the wagon to face down this shirtless man. Possible Persuasion check towards the end when she asks the bandit why he wishes to speak with them as well as perception check to try and see if she can't read the situation to see what the bandits plan on doing next from body language, moods etc. Hoping for the best really on that. x-x)

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka

Hawthorne nodded gravely at the commentary of his fellow travelers and followed Theron out of the wagon along with Morgana and Lorban.

((Sorry Huka, but you took too long. I’m going to just have Lorban go with the flow to keep things simple.))

“Very good. See? That wasn’t so hard,” jeered the tattooed shirtless man as the remaining travelers moved out into the open. Still standing upon his seat at the front of his own wagon, he towered over them with fists upon his hips. “Check the wagons. Make sure nobody else is hiding in there.”

One crossbowman from both of the aggressor’s wagons got out and each moved to one from Doran’s caravan. One of them stepped within inches of Ruutok’s hiding place. They took a quick look inside, and both shook their head back at their leader. They then walked over to the cluster of assembled travelers to stand guard at the group’s perimeter.

Gonff Insight check: (1d20+3) (5) [8]

As this was happening, Gonff tried to read this man giving orders to everyone. It wasn’t hard to tell the human appeared to be confident to the point of cockiness, judging by his superior, self-important tone and the way he flaunted his athletic physique by foregoing any kind of shirt. But what the mousefolk understood best of all is that things were getting dangerous. He therefore attempted to sway the aggressors with a speech secretly laced with bardic magic in order to hopefully incite peace.

Lots of OOC stuff:

SPOILER: Click to show

Gonff Calm Emotions: 8 + Charisma modifier (2) + Proficiency Bonus (2) = SPELL SAVE DC 12

With a 20ft AoE radius, I’ll rule that the only people NOT caught in the spell are Poncho Guy and the two bandits still behind Deran’s wagon (one crossbowman and the driver). Everyone else is pretty much huddled around Gonff, and if he’s close enough to reach Shirtless Guy’s wagon then he’s probably also close enough to reach Ruutok currently hiding beneath Doran’s wagon.

Also, when trying to find your charisma saving throw numbers I discovered that Seraph and Crucible have not been linking their character sheet in their posts. Please do so in the future, as it saves me a bit of hunting around.

Charisma Saves:
Morgana: (1d20+1) (16) [17] – SAVE!
Theron: (1d20+2) (18) [20] – SAVE!
Lorban: (1d20+3) (10) [13] – SAVE!
Alder: (1d20+2) (9) [11] – FAIL!
Ruutok: (1d20+1) (17) [18] – SAVE!
Doran: (1d20) (7) [7] – FAIL!
Deran: (1d20) (17) [17] – SAVE!
Diran: (1d20) (11) [11] – FAIL!
Daran: (1d20) (2) [2] – FAIL!
Shirtless Guy: (1d20+2) (9) [11] – FAIL!
“Bandit” #1: (1d20) (15) [15] – SAVE!
“Bandit” #2: (1d20) (3) [3] – FAIL!
“Bandit” #3: (1d20) (5) [5] – FAIL!

Anyone who failed their saving throw succumbs to Gonff’s Calm Emotions spell and now cannot take hostile action for three minutes. You feel super chill and at peace, like all is right with the world.

I debated whether to include the enemies saving throws publicly or keep those secret. Usually I probably won’t, but this time I felt like it. Bandit #1 will be the crossbowman in Shirtless guy’s wagon, the other two will be the ones standing guard over you all.

Gonff Persuasion check: (1d20+4) (8) [12]

"Friends, there's no need for all of this here! Not in such a historic and important piece of ancient architecture. Surely it would be much easier for everyone if the weapons were put away? You don't want out answers to hastened, worried, or incorrect because we are too high-strung."

One of the men standing guard over the captives burst out chuckling at the mousefolk’s little joke about the crossbows. The other guard nearby shot a disapproving glare at him, causing him to quietly mumble “Sorry…” and shut up before Gonff continued.

“Not all of us are needed to give your strong fellows more people to try and watch are we? If you just ask your questions now in a nice clear voice if any of us can help you we would surely be more than happy too so this can indeed be done with a quickly as possible without everyone having to get out and inconvenience you further. Being such a well mannered and fit individual like yourself we would be happy to help you without the extra influence of your friends’ weapons."

“Hmm,” the shirtless man mused thoughtfully, appearing flattered. His eyes seamed to go vacant for a quick instant as the spell took effect. When they returned to normal, his demeanor visibly relaxed. He then took a seat, putting his feet up on the front of his wagon with legs crossed and put his hands behind his head. “Well said, little mouse man. Boys, lose the crossbows. Wouldn’t want to spook these folks, after all. I think we already have their attention.”

The other strangers exchanged confused glances, but reluctantly complied. The two guards standing over the kneeling travelers placed their weapons down on the ground behind them, and the men in the wagons set their crossbows aside as well.

Morgana Insight check: (1d20+3) (16) [19]

As this transpired, Morgana took the opportunity to size up these strangers. They had been acting very precise and coordinated so far, indicating that they were likely no mere thugs. They also retained their composure well and were not rowdy, crude, or impulsive, plus they followed their leader’s instructions to lower their weapons even though they obviously disagreed. Trained in such things herself, Morgana would conclude that this coordination and discipline suggested these men were professionals.

Upon observing the shirtless man in particular, she noted that he obviously didn’t seem to feel very threatened, but still went through the motions of rounding up all the would-be victims anyway. Perhaps this meant he was acting under orders? He also had mentioned wanting to ask questions. So if these men were professionals under orders to gather information using lethal force, then what was it they were after that was so important?

Morgana Persuasion check: (1d20+1) (3) [4]

“If I my as along with the bard why out of anyone would you wish to stop us from going on our way? Surely a bandit could find better prey than a wagon of stragglers just trying to make their way in the world. There must be some other reason then simple robbery least you would have already fired the crossbows of yours and have been done with it. There must be more to this then simply emptying our pockets, so tell me what might this be about?"

“Heheheh…” chuckled the shirtless man, grinning widely. “Bandits? I liked the way your friend talked better. No girl, we’re not just any bandits.”

He stood up once more, placing his hands on the front of the wagon as he leaned forward. The long tails of the navy blue cloth tied around his head fluttered out beside him in the high altitude breeze.

“We… are the Cult of the Crushing Wave!”

He stepped over to the edge of the wagon and bent forward at the waist. It looked like he was going to headbutt the wagon’s side, but one foot kicked up behind him as the other one pushed off. He flipped forward onto the Stone Bridge, landing deftly one foot at a time without so much as a wobble. He didn’t even pause as he then proceeded to walk over to stand in front of Morgana.

“And I’m Justran Daehl,” he said with a smirk, hands on his hips. “Now you’re cute, but you don’t get to ask anything of me. Understood? Tell you what though, I like your spirit, so why don’t you join our crew? With a little training, even a bar maid like you might eventually become a Dark Tide Knight someday. Think about it.”

Justran gave her a little wink, and then began to pace back and forth in front of the group. “Now… Let’s get this little pow-wow started, shall we? Listen up everyone, I’m going to keep this very simple… What do you people know about the delegation? Hmm? Anyone care to share?”



((SUMMARY: Everyone finishes gathering on the bridge. Bandits check the wagons for stragglers. Gonff casts Calm Emotions and persuades the bandits to put away the crossbows. Shirtless Guy answers Morgana, and then poses a cryptic question to the group. ))

[LaxKnight]

Meri, Wood Elf Rogue
CHAPTER 2 - Homeward Bound


Nivara’s retort was about life was lost when Meri failed to find what was out in the mist. It was getting worse and worse, now having developed into a full fog. It was even beginning to screen the sunlight as it’s light began to blur. She had a bad feeling about this and when something bad happens she didn’t want either Nivara nor herself to get caught in it no matter how much the Dragonborn wanted to pick a fight. She didn’t need to get told twice to hop on to the dragon-horse as the light Wood Elf hopped on. Normally when things spooked her (and a lot of things do) her first instinct was to stay quiet and be very still. She did this so it was harder for baddies to find her but also to make it easier to hear them coming. She tugged the unused blanket over herself and leaned close to the dragon-horse to hide as she whispered to Nivara, “Hop on. It’s safer in town. Captain Jalessa is quite nice.”

While her eyes were next to useless now in this fog, Meri still had her knife-like ears. The searched vigilantly for any trace of ill tidings the fog can bring.

Summary: Very scared, Hides on dragon-horse (reminder Wood Elves have Mask of the Wild) and tell Nivara to get on Brimstone, uses hearing for Perception to see if anything is coming.

[edtosivaree]

Nivara Fendrake
Chapter Two: Homeward Bound

Nivara glanced around. Definitely magic in nature, which made her even more worried about the fog. Something of this magnitude was no minor feat at all. When she heard Meri tell her to get on the horse she was conflicted. Obviously, this was a trap. Nothing about this whole situation said natural in any sense of the word. She stood her ground and fought here, or she could be running right into the enemies trap by speeding down the road on Brimstone. If she stayed, she had her feet planted on the ground and could fight better. If they ran, they could potentially outrun the fog.

She decided to choose neither option. She quickly jumped on brimstone, careful to not crush the wood elf and immediately brought the
powerful creature into a full run, forty-five degrees right off the path. If there were any enemies waiting down the path in preparation, this would stop them from being ambushed from all sides and give them a chance. She knew to pick her battles, and if this group had a Magi who could summon fog to this degree her and a pacifistic elf had no chance. They would be met with half the force directly. Really it was a thirty-three percent chance of them running into the full force if they were dumb. If Meri knew the land as well as Nivara hoped though, then this as heir best option.

[BetaWülf]

Chapter One
Alder Spinebreker: Bugbear Barbarian
A What Now?

Alder watched as the little mouse man worked his words, manipulation the situation to their advantage. Interesting, he actually was useful. Alder looked at the Human woman next as she spoke, then at the man whom responded. Alder rolled his eyes when he heard they were 'the cult of the crushing wave', alas, the Bugbear decided Humans shouldn't be allowed to name anything.

Alder looked at the man as he looked over the group, then asking what they knew about 'the delegation', like they were thick as thieves with them. Alder frowned. He looked from side to side at his fellow hostages, then looked back up at the man. "What's a delagashun?" the Bugbear asked, clearly unfamiliar with the word and thus unaware of its meaning.

"And why are you named after waves? There's no ocean here" Alder asked, brow furrowed in confusion. What the hell were these people imbibing? Alder likely didn't want to know, though he did take note of the crossbows being put away. Yet, even though it would be a perfect opportunity to attack, Alder didn't feel the inclination strongly. It was almost as if his rage was being suppressed....



Summary: Alder asks questions and takes stock of the situation.

[Faclan]

Chapter 1
Gonff, Mousefolk Bard - on the big ol Stone Bridge
If that's how you talk to people...dunno if we can work together...err wot?

Carefully watching the shirtless man Gonffs ears would twitch and stand upright when the shirtless man said to 'lose' the crossbows. He had heard Humans slur their words before so he could have just told them to loose and fire. But after a quick scan around Gonff was relieved to see that the crossbows were indeed being lowered. That was one issue dealt with but they were still surrounded and those crossbows could, by nature of them being crossbows, be picked up and fired quickly if the order was given again. But the Shirtless man did look a lot more calm that he did before...so the spell seemed to work on him. Thank Martin for that (:3).

"Thank you Sir." He said in response to the man saying he spoke well before he looked to the side as the female who had liked his music started to...speak up. Gonff just lightly whapping one of his paws into his face and sighing. That probably undid all of the gains he had gotten.

"Not helpful Miss," the mousefolk would whisper out the side of his mouth as he removed his face palmed paw and looked back at the shirtless man. He was still smiling and chuckling so at least he wasn't going to make an example of the female. So that was good. But he then revealed that he was part of some Cult of the Crushing Wave. That sure didn't sound like a group of relief or charity workers with crush in the name. Gonff quickly pulling his notebook out of his belt pouch as he tried to flip through some of the pages to see if he had noted these before while also trying to remember if he had ever heard of them before

[Attempting a Intelligence (History) check for Cult of Crushing Wave (3(+1))]

But he didn't have much time to ponder before the now obvious leader of this group questioned them again about something called 'The Delegation' that sure was a blank to Gonff. But he did another page flip shift through his notebook before looking up at the Human and shaking his head.

"I don't know anything about the group or topic you want to know Justran Sir...sorry." He squeaked out - trying to appear nonthreatening as he glanced back at some of the caravan members. He was tempted to dispel his calm emotions...but not yet. This could still turn out to be peaceful...But soon it would be gone anyway as he knew it wouldn't last forever.


Summary: Face pawed at Morgana's words, tried to search through his notebook and memories for mention of this Crushing Wave cult (history check), and then informed Justran that he knows nothing of the delegation. Also tempted to dispel Calm Emotions but for now keeping it on.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka

Justran crossed his arms as he surveyed the tight-lipped crowd. Doran and his sons were trying not to look at him or the other captors. Most of the rest kept quiet. One of them spoke up though.

The shirtless man’s panther-like pacing brought him in front of Alder, whom he studied for a moment, taking in the covered face and the Morningstar on the ground beside him, before replying, “ Ah, true there is no ocean, but there is this vast river and its raging torrents. Indeed all water is our domain, as it is the wellspring of all life and purpose… But I’ll leave the preaching to Drosnin for some other time. For now let’s stick to the business at hand, and clearly you don’t know anything. Anyone else?”

Gonff Intelligence (History) Check: (1d20+3) (19) [22]

The mousefolk squeaked up to declare his own ignorance as well after leafing through some notes of his. Nothing in the little bard’s memory or records offered any indication whatsoever about this so-called cult or the vague “delegation” they asked about. Justran shook his head.

“You neither, little mouse man? Well how about the rest of you? Anyone else know about the delegation?”

After several more tense moments of silence, one of the people kneeling in the crowd slowly rose to his feet. It was Hawthorne.

“If you are speaking of the Mirabar delegation to Arkaus, then I know something of it, yes.” He said with the tone of one reluctant to confess his knowledge.

“Excellent! Now we’re getting somewhere!” Justran grinned. “Come over here mustache, let’s have a word to ourselves.”

Hawthorne apprehensively approached Justran and followed him a ways from the main group where they both stood near the southern edge of the bridge. Justran leaned in close and began speaking to Hawthorne in a whisper.

Wisdom (Perception) checks to hear what they’re saying:

SPOILER: Click to show

Alder: (1d20) (1) [1]
Gonff: (1d20+4) (5) [9]
Ruutok: (1d20+3) (12) [15]
Morgana: (1d20+3) (9) [12]
Theron: (1d20+1) (20) [21]
Lorban: (1d20+2) (12) [14]

Result: Theron (for… some reason, maybe he’s the closest one to Hawthorne and Justran? Or maybe mentioning Arkaus REALLY captured his attention? Or both?) is the only one who was able to overhear their conversation. I’ll send you the dialogue in a PM, Fade.

Alder on the other hand apparently forgot how listening works…

“Well, you’re the guy all right…” Justran mumbled in a normal tone of voice now, as if momentarily lost in thought. He then sighed to himself. “Hmph. You know mustache, I actually have orders to kill you. But you know what? I’m in a good mood right now. So you’re coming with us…”


((Will update again sometime on Monday. Players have until then to react, if desired.))

[Seraph]

Chapter One:
Ruutok, of the Ogaidu: Half-Orc Druid
Over the River and under the Ox
((Summary: Whie listening to the conversation Ruutok takes a moment to rack his mind for knowledge or insight into the nature of this "Cult of the Crushing Wave" as to some sort of hint as to what kind of order they might be based on what he has observed of their behavior and methods, perhaps going off the name of their congregation [Intelligence, Religeon]. He then moves makes a move across the way passed the others when no one is looking to slide underneath the Cultists' oxen to hide behind the driver's seat on the other side of the cultists' wagon. [Dexerity, Stealth]))

All the while Ruutok kept his peace as he listened to the goings on while the others all gathered together at this Justram Daehl's whims. From his vantage point underneath the Doran's wagon, the shaman had been carefully discerning the circumstances and what it meant for the other caravan members being subject to the will of these strangers. Though Ruutok did not have an ideal view of what had been happening, being unable to see the faces of those whom were speaking. He had enough sense of recollection to recognize some of the voices of those taking part in the impromptu interrogation. For the moment they would be spared, but would it be a guarantee and for how long if something were to happen?

Ruutok keyed into the part of the conversation where the Shirtless-Man calling himself Justram began to go on further about who these people were and the purpose of stopping their caravan's journey through the Dessarian. When Justram began to elaborate he mentioned the name of the organization he apparently represented. "The Cult of the Crushing Wave" at first mention was not something that the shaman was familiar with. What motivations these strangers had were a mystery in their search for the information on this "Delegation" were. From observing their methods thus far he might hazard a guess or find some sort of insight into the nature of these men. Justram had not sounded ashamed in admitting or denied that this band of his were bandits of a sort. Although there was always possibility of gleaning something more from watching carefully.

In the meantime as the conversation continued someone among the caravaners stood up. Ruutok could at least see their legs, but off the top of his head could not identify them by attire or voice at first. Someone perhaps that he rarely had seen or spoken with on the journey, perhaps a passenger of one of the other wagons in the train. He watched as two of the pairs of legs began to move aside from the rest of the group. One of the pairs of legs that the shaman had come to associate with that of Justram. From that point Ruutok could no longer hear the conversation between the two pairs of legs. He thought perhaps it was time for a better vantage point.

Slowly the Half-Orc slid himself to the edge of the wagon to get a better lay of where the others were standing without exposing himself. He could look out to the other side of the bridge under the wagon opposite of Doran's where it had been parked. He did not see anyone that might spot him between the wagons. If there was anyone that he was unaware of sitting in the bandits' wagon he was confident that if he shifted positions he would not be at much risk of being seen with his spell. Taking one more sweep of the area in front of him Ruutok rose from his prone position to crawl quickly across the gap. Trying to remain as low as possible yet be as swift as he could without being seen, confident in his spell's ability to keep his movements silent.

Ruutok would crawl underneath the legs of the brigands' oxen and make his way around the other side of the wagon behind the driver's seat where he would wait.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka

RUUTOK INTELLIGENCE (RELIGION) CHECK: (1d20+2) (13) [15]

RUUTOK DEXTERITY (STEALTH) CHECK:
(PASS WITHOUT TRACE STILL ACTIVE)
(1d20+12) (15) [27]

The half-orc shaman racked his brain for any reference in his religious knowledge that might relate to this Crushing Wave “cult”, but only drew a blank. However he did take note that these men conducted themselves more like soldiers than clergymen. How big a role faith played in their motives, if any, was unclear at this point.

While everyone’s attention was on Justran and his interrogation, Ruutok slyly took the opportunity to reposition. He slid out from his hiding spot under Doran’s wagon and boldly crawled between the legs of the oxen of the adjacent wagon, still veiled by his earlier spell. The fidgeting oxen stamped their hooves as he passed, but he remained undaunted and emerged on the other side, where he took cover beside the Crushing Wave’s wagon near the front seat.

Ahead of the stealthy druid just beyond the oxen was where Justran and Hawthorne engaged in their hushed conversation. The shirtless leader of these self-proclaimed cultists had his back turned to Ruutok, and even though Hawthorne was able to see over Justran’s shoulder the agent of Mirabar appeared not to be aware of Ruutok’s presense.

“... You, tie this guy up. Let’s get this show on the road.” Justran ordered, waving for the previously crossbow-wielding lookout in the wagon to approach.

The lackey wearing a blue hood climbed forward from the wagon to the driver’s seat, then hopped down onto the bridge within arm’s reach of Ruutok but was none the wiser. He turned to start making his way over to Hawthorne…


((Gonna pause here in case Seraph wants to attack this guy. With a stealth check of 27, none of the party has noticed Ruutok’s movement either. If anyone wants react here do so quick, because I’ll update again once Seraph either attacks or lets me know IC or OOC that Ruutok holds position.))

[Seraph]

CHAPTER 2 – HOMEWARD BOUND
PLAYER(S): Seraph , LaxKnight , edtosivaree

((Collaboration: First part by SuperCommando , second part by Seraph ))

Meri Stealth Check

SPOILER: Click to show

Once again thanks for the clear summary in your last post. When I decided to do the for I did recall your Mask of the Wild trait, but I’m glad you included the reminder anyway just in case.

Now, for this skill check I noticed a minor issue with the way you put the numbers for skills on your sheet. It’s not a big deal or anything, I think I got it figured out. But just to make it easier I’ll be making a post in the OOC thread about how to input the numbers because I noticed some weird stuff with other people’s sheets too now that I took a close look.

To let you know how I got +7 for your Stealth check, the formula is ability modifier + proficiency bonus. Your Dex mod is +3, your proficiency is +2. But you also have Expertise in the Stealth skill, which doubles your proficiency from 2 to 4. Thus, 3+4=7.

MERI DEXTERITY (STEALTH) CHECK: (1d20+7) (14) [21]

Looks like you are going to be very well hidden up there on Brimstone’s back, shielded by Nivara and obscured by the fog. If you want you could probably also cling to one side of the Kirin all Metal Gear Solid 5 style to help explain the high roll result too.

MERI WISDOM (PERCEPTION) CHECK: (1d20+2) (13) [15]

As Nivara steered her galloping Kirin mount off the road to the southwest, her elven companion kept a vigilant ear out for trouble in the dreamy, sun-lit fog fog. However, it was difficult to discern anything of note over the clatter of Brimstone’s rapid, powerful hoofbeats.

((Remember, this fog only imposes Disadvantage on vision, similar to the effect of dim lighting. You can still see things in your general vicinity, and the silhouetted shapes of things further out. This isn’t like a super thick pea soup kind of fog, as that would impose the Blindness condition.))

They raced off into the hilly roadside meadows, passing by the occasional tree or boulder but otherwise spotting nothing malevolent or out of the ordinary. Indeed the area felt quite desolate. But after awhile of riding, ((however long it takes before Nivara slightly relaxes and slows their pace, and then a little longer after that)), eventually the vague shape of a building and two figures materialized in front of them…

***

Chapter 2

Kardesh Saiyavek - Dragonborn Wizard

It had been a bright and sunny day like most others. The warm light of day refracted off of the dew that clung to every blade of grass. The early mornings where often filled with the song of songbirds from the nearby grove would drift on the breeze through the air. All had been peaceful and sound until it was that an unusual fog had begun to roll in and cover everything in its thick, colorless embrace. Few things stirred from within the nearby woodland and naught but the cawing of crows could be heard among the shady oaks in the distance.

Far off the beaten dusty trail there was a trail of dirt and stone that wound away from main road and around a lazy hill. It was a path nearly almost hidden from sight as it made its winding way toward a copse of trees on the edge a small woodland. Between the hill and the edge of the woods the path lead into a glade where there sat a quaint little cottage in the center of a clearing. The cottage looked cozy and appeared lived in with its rough log siding had grayed and all bark worn away. It had a shallow pitched roof made with a combination of thatch layered over old shingles underneath. The few tiny windows were dark and light-less with the shutters only partly closed. The door on its front appeared to have once been painted, but had also been worn by the elements.

The area around the cottage was quite spacious by nearly one-hundred feet across and situated atop a small hillock. On one side there appeared to be a garden facing out toward the open sky where the plants might get plenty of sun if it were not for the fog. Planted in the dirt seemed to be a collection of vegetables and a patch of dyeing flowers to one corner. Behind that there sat an old worn out shed with a partly collapsing roof with a small smoke stack and the door closed with a latch bolt. If one listened carefully they could hear the sound of a gurgling stream that flowed with a strong current out behind the house. In the far corner of the property stood the shape of a large shady willow tree that reached high into the air. It's sweeping branches reaching out over the water while the the wide stream ran beneath them at the bottom of the hill.

The gloom that hung over the property did little to dampen the cheer of one person as here could be heard the uttering of a song. By the water's edge seated under the weeping willow on a stone sat a small creature who's voice sounded as clear as a crystal chime and smooth like the water as she sang. A child, a young girl, but it was no Human girl. She had scales as blue as the sky and large violet eyes like amethysts. The girl also had a thin tail that swayed behind her to the rhythm of the tune while she dipped her bear, clawed feet in the water. She wore a milky white dress and had a pendant hung around her dainty neck by a silver chain with a sapphire stone set inside. And her countenance was one more of a reptilian sort with a long narrow snout and small pearlescent horns grew atop the crest of her head.

With a whoosh of air beside her and the sound of flapping broke her concentration. Beside her on the rock had landed a raven who's feathers were as white a snow and eyes like beads of blood that stared at her with blank curiosity.

"Sotven?" she said curiously.

"Elloai." Came deep a call from behind her. The raven took off with a loud caw when the girl stood and turned to find her father standing nearby. His violet eyes watching her with a stern gaze. "Til hi los." The girl hesitated for a moment before dropping the wicker and running to the elder to bury her face in his side in an embrace.

"Hi daal! Zu'u staavek hi, papa!" Elloai cried as she looked up at her father. The elder Dragonborn's face softened, placing a hand on her back and holding his daughter closer.

Kardesh stood with the little one for a few silent moments allowing her to rest her head against his side. The Dragonborn was tall as Elloai only came barely up to his waist. He was taller than most of the men that lived in the nearby town of Red Lark up the road. And unlike any one particularly from the hub town he also had a hide of scales, the color dark crimson, and two ivory horns that swept back from the op of his crest. A feint smile tugged at the corners of his lips, his draconian visage loosening as he looked upon her with sharp violet eyes that softened when she began to thruum a purr in her throat. Elloai nestled into the soft material of the ashen long coat he often wore over his cream colored robes.

"Come. Vos mii bo hofkiin." Elloai looked up at her father again before letting go of him to take his hand as they turned to walk up to the house. The raven had left them and flown off into the mist long before the two began walking up the hillock home. The air smelled of dampness as the fog only seemd to have grown thicker in the last hour Kardesh noted as he stared off into the distance. It was a most unusual occurrence he had seen since coming to the Dessarian. He had left the cottage early in the morning when it promised to be a warm clear day only to return to a damp gloom with mist that rolled in quite suddenly. Dismissing the concern after moments they were half way up the hill when there came a distinct shrill caw from a distance. He stopped suddenly and turned to face the direction which the sound came from.

"Papa?" Elloai looked up at him seeing that he was looking for something in the fog, silent.

Her father motioned to her for silence and they stood as the no sound was uttered for several long moments. It was not for a few more moments when there came the faint sound of heavy beats echoing distantly. As more moments passed the sound only grew louder with each passing second. Kardesh's brow furrowed as he strained to discern what it could be. It was not long before a silhouette appeared in the mist as the sound of something rapidly beating the ground. Elloai hid behind her father as he stood firm with a hand reaching into the inside pocket of his coat. Kardesh waited until the shape was close enough to see from where he stood on the hill, but even then it was hard to discern.

"Who is there? Speak now!" he called, demanding the identity of who or whatever ever was stamping toward them.


((SUMMARY: Detouring off the Long Road, Nivara and Meri stumble across Kardesh and his daughter outside of their cottage.))

[LaxKnight]

Meri, Wood Elf Rogue
CHAPTER 2 - Homeward Bound


Meri was scared for a moment the bloodthirsty Dragonborn would actually stay and fight but was relieved when Nivara finally decided to hop on her steed and ride. They gained speed and, with no warning, suddenly they veered off to the right. Such an action confused Meri. How was she supposed to navigate through all of this fog if there was no road to guide them? Maybe she could find a landmark in this direction or another road. Most roads around here lead to Red Lark and she didn't always travel on the road after all.

They traveled for a little bit until a large shadow became visible. The shadow began to take the form of a cottage. It was a good sign for buildings meant they were very close to Red Lark. However she tried to search her memory where this exactly might be from the Long Road and the city. Maybe she's even been here before. “Slow down!” An insistent whisper called to Nivara as they grew closer. Soon two figures began to appear but before she could discern anything a voice called out to them.

"Who is there? Speak now!"

While the booming voice was a bit frightening, since they haven't gave any war cries or promises to beat her up Meri thought it was safe to assume they were not the ones causing the fog and probably not bandits if they lived in the cottage. Charging down a hill must not give a good impression of their intentions, which for her was to merely wait out this fog without trouble. “Stop!” She said to Nivara, “They might be friendly. Say something to them.”

Meri was never the best speaker and figured Nivara should do the talking for now, trusting that she doesn't potentially ask nice people to a duel to the death. Besides, Meri might know them and raked her mind for where they might be. She tried to peer harder into the fog to see if she can pick out who these people might be.

Summary: Seeing the cottage, hearing the demand, telling Nivara to stop and talk to them while she tries to figure out if she knows where they are ((not sure if History check, Intelligence, or something else)), if she knows who lives here, and Perceive through sight who they might be.

[edtosivaree]

Nivara Fendrake
Chapter Two: Homeward Bound

Nivara rode until she felt they had left whatever was causing the fog behind, and adequately ruined their plans. For the most part, however, she stopped because of a voice calling out to her. She stopped, her Kiri mount rearing up and turned to the side so that she could have a full view of who was speaking to her. She made doubly sure the Wood Elf didn't fall off, placing a hand down on her back to keep her in place. She glared down, only to see two Dragonborn. A child hiding behind her father, how unfortunate.

"si ornla ifpesp dout ooble tilabil, lest si clax svabol wux jilg lae vin lowd" She growled, a hand on the pommel of her sword. "renthisj temep, re wux wer vehafor di nomeno bivnix?" She added, glaring harshly at the eldest man. Large problem with Nivara was that nice was just not a part of her Vocabulary. Especially when in such a dangerous situation. It didn't help that the Dialect she was using was rather harsh and guttural to begin with. While she was talking, she was doing her best to keep Meri hidden.

((Summary. Yeah, Nivara isn't a nice person... Anyway, there is probably an inadvertent Intimidate Check. Large combat ready Dragonborn on a dragon horse speaking rather darkly to anyone would probably cause one of those. I assume Kardesh's arm is not hidden in it's being in his jacket, so I get a bonus on if he does attack as I am expecting one. The rearing is like that classic "Charge" kinda rear))

[Faclan]

(Mainly just a post to let everyone know, especially BetaWülf , that the Calm Emotions spell has worn off - so feel free to go on that Bug Bear barbaric rampage that Gonff knows about from those tales ;D. But not doing any checks so other players can make moves this time )

Chapter 1
Gonff, Mousefolk Bard - on the big ol Stone Bridge
Oh Martin here we go...

Finally giving up looking through his notebook for any information about this group or what they were after Gonff instead started to count in his mind as he watched the older Human that he had seen before step forward with apparently some information about this group. Well that sure helped the situation from getting violent...but that would probably only help for so much longer. Especially not if the shirtless man was going to start killing people! That good mood was likely only due to his Calm Emotions spell that by his count had been ticking down to now dangerously low levels since Justran and the older Human had hushed talked for so long.

Just taking some breaths Gonff hoped and prayed that thing's weren't about to turn violent as the bandits were all still here with their weapons withen easy reach and all he had was a dagger up his sleeve and wasn't in range to even try to stab anyone as he was on the bridge with Doran and his sons. But he tried to prepare as best as he could to duck and dodge if a fight did break out. But he really hoped one wouldn't as Doran would most likely not do well in a fight and he didn't want to see the grandpa get hurt.

Sucking in a breath Gonff scanned around as he counted down the last few seconds under his breath so Doran and the others around the little hostage circle could hear. "May turn ugly in...5...4...3...2...1, now."


Summary: Staying where he is and now very worried because Calm Emotions has worn off on everyone! Hopefully Alder won't bonk Gonff on the head too badly for casting that spell on him later.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 2 – HOMEWARD BOUND
PLAYER(S): Seraph , LaxKnight , edtosivaree

((All OOC:

MERI INTELLIGENCE (HISTORY) CHECK: (1d20+2) (8) [10]

As a resident of Red Lark, you put two and two together to realize that this person before you is the mysterious recluse who showed up in town some years ago. You know the information written in the bio of Kardesh's character sheet.

As far as Perception goes, Meri and Nivara can see Kardesh and Elloai, but Meri is succeeding in hiding from them. The cottage is just a blurry shadow in the background.

OPPOSED INTIMIDATION:

For modifiers I’ll be using Nivara’s Intimidation skill (because she’s being forceful and generally scary) vs Kardesh’s Insight skill (to recognize that she’s just being cautious in a naturally aggressive way).

NIVARA CHARISMA (INTIMIDATION) CHECK: (1d20+4) (11) [15]
KARDESH WISDOM (INSIGHT) CHECK: (1d20+4) (18) [22]
DIFFERENCE: 7 POINTS - KARDESH

The wizened scholar deduces that not only is his fellow dragonborn being cautious, but protective. Perhaps not merely for her own sake? Kardesh’s insightfulness grants Advantage to perceive a possible reason for this.

KARDESH WISDOM (PERCEPTION) CHECK (ADVANTAGE): (1d20+2) (8) (9) [11]

Not nearly enough to detect Meri (Stealth DC 21 from last post), he can’t tell if anything is amiss but his suspicions remain. ))

[Seraph]

***

Chapter 2

Kardesh Saiyavek - Dragonborn Wizard

The elder Dragonborn did not respond at first when the shape of a rider upon the back of a great beast that he was unfamiliar came from the mist. There was a subtle shift in his face like that of momentary surprise before it hardened again at the utterance of threats from the rider. The young-ling at his side pressed into him, gripping the hem of his coat tightly at the ferociousness the stranger emanated. Kardesh, however, remained unmoved as the grip seemed to adjust slightly on whatever he was holding in his coat pocket.

"Dout ooble ui thric nuri eschoup shafaer wer daseki. I rihlilg wer svanti thric throdenilt loupon daari waph hefoc drekietneli." Countered the scholar. He switched dialects to match the dark scaled rider, but the pronunciations came were sluggish. For a moment Kardesh looked as if he tasted something foul after using the harsh tongue. The flavor of the language was awkward to articulate having been out of practice in its use which was rare. He paused briefly whilst his eyes narrowed in scrutiny as if looking for something in the other Dragonborn's face. Though he ceased after a moment before continuing.

"Wux re karif de okarthel, sjach ternock. Ehs di hesi cirau vucat ekess ve ingellar persvek nomeno thaczil. Svabol ui dout drili tenpiswo?" Kardesh relaxed some, but his stance did not change.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka


((Gonff’s Calm Emotions spell has worn off. Those affected by it may once again take hostile action if provoked, but the Crushing Wave guys at least are still keeping their cool. (They were already calm before, but the spell kept any spur-of-the-moment hostilities in check. That will no longer be the case). Alder in particular would notice those artificially-induced mellow feelings lift as his mood returns to normal.))


The hooded bandit obliviously walked out of Ruutok’s reach and began to approach Justran and Hawthorne as everyone else looked on. The agent of Mirabar’s eyes darted from Justran to the approaching bandit and back to Justran again.

“If you think I shall comply with this abduction willingly…” Hawthorne hissed at the Crushing Wave leader. His hand then darted for the longsword at his hip.

Equally as fast, no, faster, Justran placed his own hand on the pommel of Hawthorne’s sword, preventing the other man from drawing the weapon. He then stunned Hawthorne with a quick jab to the nose with his other hand. As Hawthorne recoiled from the blow, Justran reached around to the back of Hawthorne’s head and pulled, moving his own body out of the way. Hawthorne was sent stumbling right into the arms of the hooded bandit walking towords them.

As Hawthorne staggered past, Justran merely tightened his grip on the sword’s pommel and drew it out, aiming the point of the blade at its owner’s chest while the disarmed man was placed in a chokehold by the other bandit.

“I’m starting to reconsider my decision to let you live. Try anything like that again and I might have to change my mind,” Justran growled. He then glanced sideways at the group of travelers assembled nearby. “And that goes for you lot as well. Now don’t anyone dare move. We’re leaving. Try to stop us and he dies.”

The two guards standing over the travelers turned and bent down to retrieve their discarded crossbows. The other unoccupied bandits began to move, not heading back to their own wagons but to Doran and Deran’s. The Crushing Wave was bugging out, leaving the rest of the travelers with a choice. Do they continue to comply?

Or do they dare fight back?


((MAP UPDATED!))

SPOILER: Click to show

Justran is now facing west, pointing Hawthone's own sword at him. I rolled a Perception check for him to spot Ruutok, but the shaman remains undetected.

Bandit 1 has Hawthorne in a rear choke.

Bandits 2 and 3 are in the act of picking up their crossbows.

Bandit 4 (formerly the driver of Crushing Wave Wagon #2) is moving up to Deran's wagon. He has a sword drawn just in case.

Bandit 5 (formerly the crossbowman in the back of Crushing Wave Wagon #2) is following Bandit 4. His crossbow is once again equiped and ready.

[Zenith]

Chapter 1: WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY

Morgana Cromren, Human Fighter/Currently a Bar Maid

Traversing the Stone Bridge

In Good Health - Trying to be alluring/charming?

---

The first thing she would hear after uttering her words was the sound of a Mousefolk bard bringing his hand to his face, a "swell sign" that she had been rather tasteful in her words. 'Joy Morgana, your hatred for outlaws have just gotten you and everyone else killed' she could almost imagine her brain screaming at her though still that was saying they weren't getting killed in the first place. The mousefolk would second this idea as Morgana could her his whispers from beside her. "Bard if they intend to kill us they're going to do it one way or the other. Doesn't matter if we honey our words for them or not." She would answer back as she could feel the shirtless man's eyes turn to her.

For the moment silence seemed to hold the reigns tightly before the shirtless man would let off a laugh that would make Morgana stand up straighter as if preparing for some foul insult to be hurled her way. However instead the words spoken would be almost amused and jolly in nature. Though that same amusement can come from a wolf playing with it's food. Next the man would speak though this time is was Morgana's turn to be somewhat amused by his showiness in his gestures. Though upon hearing the name of the man's cult Morgana paused a moment as if trying to think if she had heard such a name before in her travels and history texts. (Doing an intelligence roll for history here)

Soon enough however her thoughts would be interrupted as the man stood before flamboyantly prepared to flip. In the truth all Morgana could hope for is that he would fail at the action and his brains would be scattered across the stone bridge. Unfortunately the Gods weren't in a giving mood however as the man would flip, before walking towards the gathering. However out of all people he would stop right in front of her, eyeing her as he did so. The action would make Morgana stand up straighter as if trying to rise up to her full height above the man. Yet none the less the man would begin to do on thing she didn't expect. He began to flirt with her.

Morgana's face turned slightly red with embarrassment as an indignant look crossed her face. However luckily for both her and Justran the cultist would move along though not before extending his offer. Still for a moment there her thoughts had slid down to the knife she had on her. Still the even moved on until finally the man named Hawthorne was brought among these cult members whom apparently wanted to take the poor man alive to wherever hole they had crawled out of. The woman's eyes moved between them before turning to the Mousefolk bard as well as to the carvan drivers and giving them a glance as if she were trying to plot some scheme up in her head. She would lower her voice to a whisper before speaking. Then stepping forward in the most charming voice she could manage at the time she began to speak.

"Justran about that offer you made earlier.... What are the terms of it?"


 

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka


“Term one… get in the wagon and come with us. I’ll explain the rest along the way,” Justran replied to Morgana, nodding his head in the direction of Doran’s wagon.

He motioned with Hawthorne’s sword, prompting the guy restraining Hawthorne to get moving. They edged along the crowd, the bandit walking backwards with his captive as Justran followed, keeping the sword upraised while glancing back and forth between his hostage and the crowd.

In the meantime, the other men began to board the wagons. In just a few moments, they would make their departure.




((Bandit 4 has taken a seat in Deran’s wagon and is reaching for the reigns.

Bandit 5 is seated beside Bandit 4 and is providing overwatch with his crossbow.

Bandit 3 has picked up his crossbow and is walking backwards towords Deran’s wagon.

Bandit 2 has picked up his crossbow and is holding position, standing before the crowd with his weapon poised to fire if anyone other than Morgana moves.

Justran/Hawthorne/Bandit 1 are moving together and are currently between Bandit 2 and Doran’s wagon.))

[BetaWülf]

Chapter One
Alder Spinebreker: Bugbear Barbarian
The Wrath of the North

Alder bowed his head slowly, his hood draping down and further concealing his face. His hands twitched, his thumbs worming about and working his gloves off to reveal ursine claws. His breathing quickened, his shoulders began to heave up and down. Slowly at first, but it continued to increase in rapidity. A low growl entered his throat, to his companions it sounded almost Human. Almost.

His skin darkened, taking on a modicum of purple in tone; the veins in his forehead pulsed and grew easy to see. One hand reached up to his face, tearing the bandana away from his mouth and nose(though the hood still concealed his visage). The growl grew louder, and louder, more and more inhuman by the second. His Owlbear turned its great head, its neck feathers ruffling as it sensed its master's anger rising.

His right hand shot out, snatching the haft of his Morningstar as his left leg came up and his foot slammed solidly on the stone of the bridge. With his left foot planted, Alder lunged forward; Morningstar held high. His growl ascended to a beastial roar as he attacked the Cultist heading for Deran's wagon. His hood flew back revealing his face to all as he roared; his maw open wide with bearish teeth gleaming in the early morning sun.

"Fight!" Alder roared, beckoning his companions to give the battle their all; his Owlbear wheeling around to attack the Bandit holding their crossbow to the group of travelers.



Summary: Alder rages, uses his free action to grab his Morningstar, and attacks Bandit/Cultist #3 as he calls for his companions to take up arms and fight by his side. His Owlbear attacks Band #2 if that is allowed.

[Seraph]

Chapter 1
Ruutok, Half-Orc Druid

So the fox bleeds its true colors through its coat..

The whole while the Half-Orc watched as the events unfolded before him. He had been quietly watching and weighing the circumstances of any actions that he might have taken to intervene as the so called Crushing Wave cultists went with their scheme to find whatever it was they sought. Many times an opportunity had presented itself to take action against the men that a few times now have threatened the humble caravan in their search. But the wizened shaman had withheld action as he had resigned himself to watch and be a judge until the time was right.

The man Justram had thus taken to securing himself a hostage. The spindly man that Ruutok only knew in passing as Hawthorne had been taken at sword point when it was he confessed to having information that the other man, Justram had sought after this whole endeavor. It was becoming very clear now that these men were of an ilk cut from a flaccid, moldy cloth. Dishonorable and wicked in their intentions as they planned now to make a getaway with  all of the belongings of their caravan. They threatened the life of another as well as the livelihood of Doran and his family by intending to steal their wagons as the men moved to secure them. Such dishonorable action made the Half-Orc's chest burn with disproving anger. Yet he kept himself in check until the appropriate came to take action.

It would seem that that time came quickly and suddenly as one of the crowd of caravaners broke out with a roar! The fellow traveler whom had come to be somewhat of a traveling companion Alder threw off their own disguise to reveal a more savage nature. As they began to make a move to strike out at the nearest bandit, so too did Ruutok as he case out of hiding and moved to catch the men that walked toward Doran's wagon.

Ruutok tailed Justram and Hawthorne keeping distance in feet between him and brigand leader while also making sure nothing obstructed the shaman's view of the man. Ruutok stood fully and raised the staff he had kept at his side the whole while as he raised it and began to invoke a spell in a strange tongue.

"Spirits, let them feel the bite of the brier!" the shaman invoked the speel and a long thorny vine then began to sprout from the head of the red cedar staff. The vine convulsed before being lashing outward, writhing as it flew through the air toward Justram like a viper! The Half-Orc intended to first help Hawthorne by yanking away his capture that held the blade to his chest.

((Summary: Ruutok can no longer sit by as the bandits begin to make their getaway using the wagons of Doran's caravan and taking Hawthorne hostage. Using the surprise and confusion of Alder's outburst the shaman follows Justram and Hawthorne by about 10 feet behind before casting Thorn Whip to try and pull Justram away from the hostage. Concentration on Pass Without Trace remains active.))

SPOILER: Click to show

Thorn Whip: You create a long, vine-like whip covered in thorns that
lashes out at your com m and toward a creature in range.
Make a m elee spell attack against the target. If the
attack hits, the creature takes 1d6 piercing damage, and
if the creature is Large or smaller, you pull the creature
up to 10 feet closer to you.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka

In the blink of an eye, the great Stone Bridge suddenly became a battleground.

After picking up his crossbow, one of the men previously standing guard over the travelers ((Bandit 3)) fell back while his fellow Crushing Wave bandits claimed Deran’s wagon. He noticed that one of their corralled victims was starting to act strangely, like he was having some sort of fit.

“Uhmm… guys?” he said over his shoulder at the bandits getting settled in the driver’s seat of the wagon. “What’s wrong with hi—AAAHH!!!”

ALDER MORNINGSTAR ATTACK: (1d20+5) (16) [21] – HIT!
PIERCING DAMAGE (+3 STR AND +2 RAGE): (1d8+5) (4) [9]

The force of Alder’s raging blow knocked the man clean off his feet. He crashed onto the bridge, badly injured and writhing in pain.

“BUGBEAR!!!” the other guard cried out. ((Bandit 2)). He immediately swiveled on his feet and leveled his crossbow at the barbarian…

OWLBEAR CLAW ATTACK: (1d20+7) (19) [26] – HIT!
SLASHING DAMAGE: (2d8+5) (6) (1) [12]

…But sensing its master’s rage, the Owlbear tied to Doran’s wagon roared and sprang into action, pulling against the rope as it lashed out at the crossbowman with the claws of its hind leg. Long arcs of blood flew through the air as deep gouges were dug out from his back, causing him to utter a shrieking death cry as he was knocked aside, his weapon sent flying.

“Whoa!” gasped Justran, startled as the Owlbear right beside him sprung to life. He and the bandit towing Hawthorne frightfully scrambled back from the beast, moving between the two wagons.

The other remaining crossbowman ((Bandit 5)), wasted no time counterattacking. From his position in the driver’s seat of Deran’s wagon, he turned and fired down at Alder only a few feet away.

BANDIT 5 CROSSBOW ATTACK: (1d20+3) (9) [12] – MISS!
((Alder realizes the shot is coming and dodges out of the way.))

“Aw, hell!” Justran cursed at all the commotion. Little did he know, he was currently being stalked.

((Ruutok’s ambush))

SPOILER: Click to show

CONTESTED ROLL: RUUTOK STEALTH VS JUSTRAN PERCEPTION
RUUTOK DEXTERITY (STEALTH) CHECK: (1d20+12) (4) [16]
JUSTRAN WISDOM (PERCEPTION) CHECK: (1d20) [7]

Ruutok is still Hidden, granting Advantage on his melee spell attack.

RUUTOK THORN WHIP ATTACK (ADVANTAGE): (1d20+5) (9) (13) [18] – HIT!
PIERCING DAMAGE: (1d6) [4]

CONTESTED STRENGHT ROLL: (To see if Justran is yanked off his feet or remain standing)
RUUTOK STRENGTH CHECK: (1d20+1) (6) [7]
JUSTRAN STRENGTH CHECK: (1d20+3) (6) [9]

“Wha-?” Suddenly, a thorny vine shot out and coiled around the Crushing Wave leader, binding his arms to his sides. A sharp tug pulled him away from Hawthorne, causing him to stumble backward. He fought to retain his balance, though, and succeeded in staying standing and keep his grip on the sword.

As he was being pulled backward towards Ruutok, Justran glanced over his shoulder at his attacker. His eyes narrowed, glaring at the shaman. He struggled against his bonds, and then noticed the oxen beside him. He swiped at the leg of the nearest ox with Hawthorne’s sword, leaving a shallow cut just painful enough to startle the creature.

The ox let out a loud “MOOOOOO!!!” and jolted, causing the other ox to panic as well. They surged forward, stampeding out of control straight into the crowd in front of them.

((Reflex Saves to avoid getting run over))

SPOILER: Click to show

Ruutok: (1d20+2) (18) [20] – SAVE!
Morgana: (1d20+4) (13) [17] – SAVE!
Theron: (1d20+1) (3) [4] – FAIL!
Gonff: (1d20+5) (10) [15] –SAVE!
Lorban: (1d20+2) (8) [10] – SAVE!
Doran: (1d20) [7] – FAIL!
Deran: (1d20) [16] – SAVE!
Diran: (1d20) [1] – FAIL!
Daran: (1d20) [13] – SAVE!

If you made your saving throw, you are able to dodge out of the way.
If you failed, you are knocked prone and take 3d6 bludgeoning damage.

DAMAGE:
Theron: (3d6) (5) (2) (5) [12] – 44/56 HP remaining.
Doran: (3d6) (6) (3) (1) [10] – 0/10 HP remaining. UNCONSCIOUS AND DYING!
Doran Death Saving Throw: (1d20) [4] – FAIL! Two more fails and he dies.
Diran: (3d6) (3) (4) (1) [8] – 2/10 HP remaining.

In a mad scramble, most of the crowd manages to avoid the runaway wagon. A few were not so fortunate. Diran slipped in the chaos and faceplanted into the bridge. Doran was too old to move out of the way in time. And Theron, being right in front of the oxen when they made their charge, didn’t have enough time to react. All three were trampled by the oxen and run over by the wagon.



((SUMMARY:
Alder clobbers Bandit 3,
The Owlbear takes out Bandit 2
Bandit 5 takes a shot at Alder
Ruutok uses Thorn whip on Justran
Justran panics the oxen of Crushing Wave Wagon #1 causing them to stampede))

[LaxKnight]

Meri, Wood Elf Rogue
CHAPTER 2 - Homeward Bound


Meri simply had no idea what was going on between the two Dragonborn though she can tell from how scary Nivara was being that it wasn’t friendly. They were speaking in some sort of strange language that consisted of a lot of growling (at least to her). As she studied the people before her she realized she recognized the elder Dragonborn. She only knew him as Kardesh, a name she overheard a few times. He was a rather reclusive being who only came to Red Lark a few years ago. He sparsely visited but few Dragonborns wander in the Valley so he wasn’t hard to forget. She didn’t know a bunch about him for he was fairly reclusive but she has seen mainly going through books, something she appreciated because she also liked books.

Deciding it was best not to announce her presents at this time, she whispered to Nivara, “His name is Kardesh. He visits Red Lark. This must be his home.”

Seeing the ‘little’ girl cowering next to Kardesh, “Probably not a good idea to be scary with the little one there.”

Summary: Continuing to hide, knows who Kardesh is, whispers some basics to Nivara, offers advice (which will probably be ignored). Also has no idea what they are saying because Elf.

[Faclan]

Chapter 1
Gonff, Mousefolk Bard - on the big ol Stone Bridge
Musical buffs for battering butts.

As Gonff had suspected the situation did indeed turn ugly after his spell had worn off. And if they all survived this besides the cult he had the sneaking suspicious that it could get worse for him becasue it was revealed, with a roar and a swinging mace, that the cloaked figure was a Bugbear! The things he had called savages the previous night! Nevermind the fact the one there was confirming his tale but one was there! Smashing at the cultists and then its massive terrifying Owlbear joined in too! Gonff didn't have much time to ponder that through before his ears flicked and he glanced to the side to see the oxen from one of the carts barreling down on him and the group.

Pushing off the bridge and rolling to the side Gonff thankfully avoided his small frame being smushed under those hooves...But Diran and Doran wern't so lucky. Doran looked as if he was very badly injured!

"Doran!" Gonff would squeak out before started to crawl over toward him after his roll. But the Dwarf in armor made it to Doran first and seemed to start to cast a spell on him. Just nodding at the Dwarf Gonff quickly scrabbled back to his feet and took stock around the bridge now. The battle was well and truely joined now - and Gonff only had the small dagger up his sleeve. But to him he didn't even need that right now as he wasn't directly being swung at. Looking over at the Raging Bugbear he nodded and decided that he could use some help as the bigger Owlbear was probably fine once it got free of its rope.

And then one of the cultists dropped a crossbow near him! A big one for him to be sure but one that he would be able to use. But taking out his flute with a little flourish he took a deep breath and then began to play a quite upbeat flute song, intending to make the Bugbear even more eager to smash some faces in as he hopped a bit from foot to foot and started to make his way toward that Crossbow.

[Bard Ability usage, expending one of the two charges of Bardic Inspiration. 1d6 is added to one of Alders next rolls, be that to dodge, to hit, or damage. Not sure if that needs a check but Gonffs performance is +6]
- Some flute battle music :>

SPOILER: Click to show

Summary: After panicking because BUGBEAR! and panicking because of big ass stampede, Gonff took stock of the situation as quick as he could. Leaving the injured Elder to the Dwarven Cleric as he instead worked on offensive support. Because he only had a knife he instead started to buff Alder while also trying to move over toward the dropped Crossbow.

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka


((MAP UPDATED!))

SPOILER: Click to show

Runaway wagon is barreling east.

Bandit 3 is the guy Alder pummeled last round. He's laying down, pretty much dead.

Morgana is unmarked because Zenith hasn’t posted yet. She could have dodged either north or south, but I’m guessing probably north.

Pulled wildly by the panicking oxen, the runaway wagon thundered down the bridge leaving chaos in its wake. The horse Diran had been riding reared up and whinnied fearfully – it would have bolted had Deran and Daran, who both managed to avoid getting run over by the wagon, not rushed over to restrain the animal.

Their brother and elderly father were not so lucky. Seeing them laying in pretty bad shape upon the stone, dwarven Cleric Lorban rushed over to help. Kneeling beside them, he realized that Doran was no longer breathing. Lorban bowed his head and gently placed a hand on the old man’s forehead as he began to pray.

LORBAN CURE WOUNDS SPELL: (1d8+2) (3) [5] HEALING
DORAN HP: 5/10

Guided by the Cleric’s magic back from the brink of death, Doran gasped for breath before beginning to groan. He was still in pain, but he would live.

In the meantime, Gonff was weaving some magic of his own. The Mousefolk Bard’s mystically-infused music stirred within Alder’s soul, and the Barbarian felt a surge of energizing power.

((BetaWülf , remember to mention your Bardic Inspiration in your summary when you wish to have that d6 added to a roll of your choice. You can even specify any parameters you want for when I should add it, such as “If my attack roll is low go ahead and add it to that, but if it’s high then add it to damage instead”.))

Gonff also maneuvered over to the weapon dropped by the bandit Alder’s owlbear had killed. The large cranequin crossbow at his feet was actually quite nicely decorated, with smooth, dark horn paneling along the sides and a black bow. Both sides of the bow were carved with some kind of symbol on the front, and those carvings had been painted blue to stand out. The crossbow had a bolt loaded and ready to fire, but it would be a struggle for the little guy to wield.

((Crossbow stats))

SPOILER: Click to show

CRUSHING WAVE HEAVY CROSSBOW:
AMMO: 1
1d10 PIERCING DAMAGE
DISADVANTAGE ON ATTACK ROLLS

SIGN OF THE CRUSHING WAVE:

From the driver’s seat of Deran’s wagon, the bandit cultist who took a shot at Alder tossed his crossbow to the guy next to him rather than reload it himself. He then drew a sword, a wicked looking-blade lined with shark teeth, and chopped down at the barbarian!

((Sword pic and attack roll))

SPOILER: Click to show

BANDIT 5 SHARKTOOTH LONGSWORD ATTACK: (1d20+4) (12) [16] – HIT!
SLASHING DAMAGE: (1d8+2)(4) [6]
ALDER HP: 25/31

While he fought with Alder, the other bandit spun the crank to draw back the crossbow and load in a fresh bolt. He then aimed it at Daran who was still helping his brother restrain the horse.

BANDIT 4 CROSSBOW ATTACK (ADVANTAGE): (1d20+3) (1) (2) [5] – MISS!
((Holy crap this guy can’t shoot for shit…))

The bolt whistled past its intended target, but did cause Daran to jump out of reflex. That momentary loss of concentration allowed the horse to break free, and it began to run away.

((Morgana or Theron can attempt to jump on the horse as it passes by if you wish.))

With his Thorn Whip spell concluded, Ruutok’s vine dissolved and fell away from Justran’s tattooed torso. He turned to face the shaman fully and smirked with an eager grin as he calmly stood his ground, placing one fist on his hip as he idly swished Hawthorne’s sword back and forth.

“Heh. Looks like we missed one,” he said. “You dare challenge me? Fine, have it your way.”


((SUMMARY:
Lorban heals Doran
Gonff inspires Alder and moves to crossbow
Bandit 5 cuts Alder
Bandit 4 tries to shoot Daran
The horse gets loose and makes a break for it
Justran prepares to fight))

[Remnant]

CHAPTER 1 - WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
Theron Helius, Human Champion
Raise Thy Sword

Chaos went wild as the bridge soon became a battleground. Theron turned his head to see a runaway wagon heading straight for him. He didn't have enough time to react, and was soon trampled. Theron groaned as he laid on his stomach, blood trickling from the side of his lips. He unsheathed his greatsword, and stabbed it into the stone, using it as a crutch to get onto his feet. Theron looked towards Justran and Hawthorne, noticing Ruutok ambushing Justran. Theron rushed to his side, and before either party struck, whispered to Ruutok.

"Take the bandit and get Hawthorne. This one's mine." Theron whispered, referring to Justran.

"Tell me, boy. Why are you so interested in this Delegation? Or Arkaus, for that matter?" Theron impatiently waited for an answer. "If you dare stand against Arkaus, you dare stand against I. Raise thy sword, boy." Theron finished, raising his greatsword in a defensive stance, waiting for Justran to make the first strike.

((BGM START!))

SPOILER: Click to show

Listen to while reading Theron's duel.

((Summary:

Theron trampled, gets back up.
Moves next to Ruutok, whispers to him briefly.
Questions Justran's motives, then challenges him to a duel. (Not sure if this is a Charisma check or not.)

Going to do a "Ready" action for Theron. If Justran attacks first, Theron will attempt to counter.))

[Seraph]

Chapter 1  - Welcome to the Dissarian Valley
Ruutok, Half-Orc Druid

As the oxen pulled cart came barreling toward him Ruutok had to move quickly or be crushed by the charging beasts! He threw himself forward landing on one knee with a grunt. Inadvertently he also had decided to relinquish  concentration of his spell as it was of little use now that he were in the open. Unfortunately that also meant that the hold that the conjured vine of thorns could not be held up as it crumbled into dust. Thus freeing up Justran's hands once again. The shaman rose to his feet with a huff. He was dissatisfied that he only managed to pry away the Cultist Leader's attention away from his hostage momentarily, but it would have to do.

To Ruutok's right he stole a glance of what was going on in the wake of the stampeding ox cart. He saw that most had managed to get out of the way in time and gather themselves as the violence broke out. Some however were not so lucky it seemed. A pang of guilt and worry burned at his heart seeing the form of old Doran lying motionless on the stone while two others still moved about on the ground. Some moved to the old man's aid leaving the rest to fend off the bandits. Ruutok gripped the staff in his hands and scowled at Justran.

It was just then that someone rushed up to his side. Turning to look, it was the one of the other men from Doran's caravan that often rode in the second wagon. The man's name slipped the shaman's mind, but he was recognizable enough from his grizzled appearance brandishing the large sword they often carried. The grizzled warrior whispered to the Half-Orc of his intentions...

"Zug-zug. Caution be with you, then." he murmured his reply in agreement with the Human's plan.

With that Ruutok split off and moved to go after Hawthorne and the brigand that held him. Giving Theron and Justran a wide birth Ruutok moved to parallel the brigand who currently was holding Hawthorne. The shaman bounded forward at the man looking to get around the bandit's side while they were busy trying to hold onto the hostage as Ruutok tried to avoid avoid hitting Hawethorne.

"Release the man or face your reckoning!" the old shaman flashed a mad look as his features became fierce. Charging the cedar staff in his hand with energy Ruutok ferociously swung at the bandit from the side.

((Summary: Ruutok picks himself up from after avoid being trampled by the cart. When he is joined by Theron who intends to face Justran himself, the old shaman agrees to secure Hawthorne himself. Ruutok moves away and around Justran out of reach to get at the bandit holding Hawthorne from the side to avoid hitting the hostage. As a bonus action Ruutok activates his cantrip Shillelagh use an attack action against Bandit  1 whilst yelling a threat to let the hostage go. Concentration on Pass Without Trace still active.)))

SPOILER: Click to show

S h i l l e l a g h

Transmutation cantrip

Casting Time: 1 bonus action
Range: Touch
Components: V, S, M (mistletoe, a sham rock leaf, and a club or quarterstaff)
Duration: 1 minute


The wood of a club or quarterstaff you are holding is imbued with nature’s power. For the duration, you can use your spellcasting ability instead of Strength for the attack and damage rolls of melee attacks using that weapon, and the weapon's damage die becomes a d8. The weapon also becomes magical, if it isn’t already. The spell ends if you cast it again or if you let go of the weapon.

******

Chapter 2 - Homeward Bound
Kardesh Saiyavek, Dragonborn Wizard

The moments had passed since either of the two Dragonborn spoke. The tense silence that surrounded them only being broken by the babbling of the nearby stream that flowed along one side of the glade in which they stood. The crimson red eyes of the black-scaled
bore into the elder as he searched for signs that could tell of her intentions. Yet there were too few ques that left little else to determine the others' intentions save for that other things seemed to preoccupy their thoughts. Caution was what spoke most of either Dragons' stances and neither seemed willing to let down their guard.

"Los rek med mu?" The young girl at the scholar's side stirred when she murmured softly up at him. The child's initial fear seemed to shift into some curiousity as she shuffled from behind him and into view coming to stand beside the her father's side now. Kardesh's only response was soft glance down at her followed and sighed. He placed a hand on her shoulder to keep her in place close to him. Looking back up at the strange rider the elder's hidden hand fell back to his side, empty and relaxed.

"Wer donoap ui mobi." The elder said in his own dialect with a hint agitation as he waved a hand off in the general direction away from the cottage. "There is a path that will take you there. Si tepoha moxt sanipkur ihk nomeno. Be off if there is nothing else..." Kardesh seemed rather hasty to let go of the trespassing into his domain and eager to be done with arbitrary chatter with the stranger.

Despite being known for not being particularly cheery, the reclusive Dragonborn was awfully hasty to be done with this interaction.

((Summary: Kardesh is the first to relent his aggressive stance, but yet remains wary of Nivara despite not responding to his initial responses. While still being rather grumpy he points off away from the cottage and tells them that the proper path to the road is that way. He alternates between Nivara's Draconic dialect and the Common languages as e speaks now. His irritability is rather apparent though he is rather hasty to be rid of the trespassers and back to his own business.)

[SuperCommando]

CHAPTER 1 – WELCOME TO THE DESSARIN VALLEY
PLAYER(S): BetaWülf , Faclan , Seraph , Zenith , Remnant , Huka


((Nice theme, Fade! Why don’t you make it official by putting the ((BGM START!)) marker above the spoiler box, and inside the box above the video put “listen while reading Theron’s duel”.))

Justran tilted his head as he sized up Theron for a moment. He casually rested the flat of Hawthorne’s sword upon his shoulder.

“Personally I don’t really give a damn about Arkaus. You obviously do though. What, you with the Remnant or something? Whatever. I have no quarrel with you. Buuut… I know somebody else who might…”

At that moment, a metal chain suddenly flung in front of Theron’s view from his left side! A double-sided axe-head at the end of the chain lashed just past his face, coiled around his greatsword, and hooked onto the chain like a grapple hook.

THERON STRENGTH CHECK: (1d20+3) (9) [12]

A sharp tug pulled the chain taught, yanking the sword sideways. Theron was turned to the side as a result, now facing to the south, but he was able to maintain a strong grip on his weapon.

Following the chain with his eyes, Theron discovered it led to a figure standing near the edge of the bridge, with the majestic view of the far-below river and distant hills as a backdrop behind the stranger. He had long dark hair, a thick metal mask covering his face from the nose down, and a dark blue poncho fluttering around him in the wind.

((Bum-Bum-BUM! It’s Poncho Guy! The person who stood in front of Doran’s wagon to stop the caravan at the beginning of this encounter! He became suspicious when his fellow cultists' attitudes changed after Gonff did his peace talk, and decided to hide and lie in wait much like Ruutok. Poncho Guy crept behind the wagons over to the southern side of the bridge, where he clung to the edge and hung there, shimmying side to side as events unfolded. Neither he nor Ruutok discovered each other despite their close proximity. Now he has finally revealed himself! This would be the first time Theron laid eyes on him, but no Perception check is required for him to have the following revelation.))

((BGM START!))

SPOILER: Click to show

Pause Theron's duel theme, play this from 1:30 (linked), play through to end and then resume Theron's duel theme.

The mask, the poncho, the blade-tipped chain, the grizzled soldier of Arkaus would suddenly recognize this as the garb of a sworn enemy. This stranger was undoubtedly a former member of the notorious Velias Assassin Corps, a feared unit subject to much rumor yet rarely seen in person. Arkaus soldiers nicknamed these rare opponents “the chain devils”, and for good reason.

“I know who you are…” slowly uttered the assassin, his voice harsh and muffled by the mask. “…Greymane, the traitor.”

His metal gauntlet clenched tighter around the chain as his eyes narrowed...

Meanwhile, Ruutok was moving in to strike at the man holding Hawthorne hostage, when an interjecting blade abruptly halted his Shellelegh-ified quarterstaff mid-swing.

“Now,” said Justran. “Where were we?”


((SUMMARY: Theron is confronted by Poncho Guy, Justran blocks Ruutok’s attack.))

[Faclan]

Chapter 1
Gonff, Mousefolk Bard - on the big ol Stone Bridge
Shoulder mounted Heavy Stake thrower!

With his main Bardic oomph given to the big angry Bugbear, the song still reverberating dispite the fact they were up in the air with no walls, Gonff slipped his flute back into his belt before looking down at the crossbow. It sure was a fancy looking one. And heavy. Thank Martin it was still loaded at least as Gonff had doubts weather he could manage to span something nearly the same height as him. But with the remnants of his song still going strong Gonff crouched down and slipped his paws under the weapon as best he could before taking a breath and hefting it up into his arms.

It was likely a very comical sight to see the small mousefolk wheel backwards and stumble a bit under all that weight. But Gonff finally got it into a somewhat stable position with the stock of the crossbow resting on his shoulder and both his paws holding the bow arms. He could at least hold it up like this but aiming would be another issue all together. As he tried to turn to point in the direction of Bandits 4 and 5 Gonff started to think that it would have been a much better idea to try and make it to Dorans Wagon. Free the Owlbear and then leap into the Cart to get his actual crossbow. But he was already here so may as well fire this since it was here.

Doing his best to tilt his head enough to sight along the shaft so that he was mostly lined up Gonff moved his head out of the way of the fletchings before shoving his paws backwards to move the trigger into his shoulder; firing the large stake toward the bandits! The small Mouse pulled forward by the twanging string but thankfully able to keep upright. But with that done, Gonff barely looking to see if he had hit anything, he let the crossbow fall off his smaller shoulders onto the bridge before trying to bolt for Dorans Wagon. Intending to, when he got there, cut the Owlbear free and then clamber inside to get the crossbow he could actually use.

Though he did have a small hope that the big crossbow wasn't too damaged when he dropped it because it was good quality and would seel for a handy profit. And he also called out to the big ol hopefully-not-angry-at-him Bugbear as he moved toward the Dorans Wagon.

"Can you tell your Bear to not eat me so I can cut it free?!"

Summary: Stopped playing his song, though Bardic magic probably made it stay around awhile (Alder still has his roll). Then managed to pick up the Human sized heavy crossbow and fired it like some kind of awesome shoulder mounted rocket launcher at Bandit 4 and 5. Before dropping it and trying to run to Dorans Wagon so he could free the Owlbear and get his properly sized crossbow.