Up in to the hills
Subject Pinch typist
Ok guys I am still not up to 100% but my oldest son, Geoff, is willing to help me out by doing my typing for me. I will try and get a turn out today and maybe one every other day after that until the Docs determine what they are going to do about my neck.
From: Mark
Subject Up in to the hills
OODM: Hi this is Geoff. I'm writing today for an irritable and crippled DM who is standing behind me griping. Any errors are not my fault. I am hoping that he can manage to get an encounter of his own devising straight, instead of thoroughly messing my own up. Remember to look on the positive side: your next characters will have their first major role playing experience when they find the corpses of your current ones.
To recap, the party is now 4 weeks out of Gorn, two weeks on the waves and two weeks on the road. They have another two weeks to get to the head waters of the Rushing River. Mund has been leading them along the path of the river, never more than several miles from the banks. As they head towards the mountains the river channel becomes steeper and more dangerous to be near, so the party stays a bit away, but the river can easily be heard. The terrain has been getting generally rougher, with trees becoming more dense and with more undergrowth, the path becoming harder and harder to find.
Because of the thickening trees they are having to lead their mounts more and more often, making less and lees progress every day. The air also becomes less hospitable as they progress, getting cooler in the day and closer to a frost each night. However, Mund is able to find marginally more comfortable and sheltered areas in which to spend the night.
The weather ranges between bright and crisp and overcast and cloudy but with very little rain. As the day progresses Salix begins to get an odd felling but he cannot place its source. For the next several hours Salix is distracted, trying to find the source of his disquiet. As it approaches early evening, while the party is searching for a place to bed for the night, Salix approaches Mund to discuss the odd felling he's had all day. (Spot check DC20, 19+7=26 success)
"Mund," Salix says "Would you mind if I spoke with you for a few minutes?" Mund nods, and Salix continues. "Something has been bothering me for the past couple of hours, and I have finally realized what it is. I have not seen any large animals, predator or prey, all day. I know I am not from this area, but that strikes me as odd. What is your opinion?" Mund nods, surprised that this outlander had picked up on the very same thing that had been bothering him. "Yep," he replies "haven't heard any either." (Listen check DC25, 19+9=28, success)
"Oh, so what do you think we should do about this?" Salix inquires. Mund grunts in resignation. "Not much we can do about it. Just keep movin' and keep our eyes peeled. Tell the rest of 'em to do the same." As they make camp for the night, Salix and Mund tell the others about their worries, Harp first.
OODM: Ok guys let me know what the party wants to do? They are in a small clearing about a mile from the river. It is early evening, but night is coming on fast.
From: Kevin
Subject Up in to the hills
Harp will listen to Salix's concerns, and will take those concerns seriously. He has come to respect the Druid, especially when it comes to being out in the open. When Salix is done discussing his concerns, Harp will ask Mund to join them.
" Mund, I am glad that you and Salix have brought this to my attention. I think this is cause to start a double watch. With Ran's help, I would like to set a watch schedule that takes use of our inborn skills."
OOC: Mark and Geoff, I am thinking that Ragnar and Harp will take the deep night shifts, since they have dark vision. Ran and Salix would take first and last shift as their lowlight vision should suffice. I will suggest Alastair take the first watch and have Surin and Mund split with Harp and Ragnar since they will have better skills at hearing something. Maybe Mund with Harp and Surin with Ragnar. You get the gist, and have approval to play with it some.
IC: "Salix, I hestitate to ask this of you, but would you mind asking Noctis if he would do us the favor helping to help keep patrol at night? I have come to learn that he is a valuable member of our team. If you could give him some simple signals so that if he sees something, he can give us a basic warning. I miss our feathered friends from our first adventure.
Mund, Salix, have either of you ever heard of anything that might drive off the large predators?"
Harp will also ask this of the larger group. Mund and Salix are the most knowledgable in this area, but you never know who might remember something.
OOC: Welcome Geoff. Keep up the good work and I will not whine at you too much.
Disquiet in the woods
Subject Into the hills
From Mund's own experience, is this normal or bizarre for there to be no large animals in this area?
From: Mark
Subject Into the hills
It is enough for him to notice it. Not seeing any large animals may not be uncommon, especially with a group this big, but to not hear any at all. That means no large animal of any sort, no bear, no elk, no deer, no lion, no large cat, nothing.
There are a few creatures that might cuase that. Dragons for example.
From: Porter
Subject Into the hills
"That's a good idea. This don't smell right."
Mund nervously pulls out his hunting knife and starts whittling a piece of stick into shavings.
During the trip most nights Mund has spent some time playing his lute. He stuffs a rag inside it to deaden the noise. Mund can hear it just fine, but you have to be right next to him in order to hear much at all of what he is playing.
Tonight, however, Mund is too spooked to do this. He he seems to always have an excuse to have his favorite knife out, whether it be whittling, eating, cleaning his nails, or practicing throwing it into one of the trees in the camp.
From: Karl
Subject Disquiet
If Salix were to take his wild shape as some predator, say a bear or panther, would that allow him to sense whatever it is that has the large animals scared?
From: Mark
Subject Wildshape
He is not sure. He would have to take the shape and see what he finds out.
From: Karl
Subject Wildshape
For the record, Salix usually has Noctis assist with the watch at night. He generally let's Noctis sleep during the day unless he is needed for something specific. He let's Noctis hunt during the time they are setting up camp and getting ready for bed and may also let him hunt when Salix takes his own watch unless there is reason to ask Noctis to make an extra patrol during that time. At other times during the night, Salix has Noctis keep watch. This might be from a perch nearby or taking the occasional patrol of the perimeter to relieve the boredom. This is their normal habit, so unless I write that Salix gives specifically *different* orders, it should be assumed Noctis is assisting with the watch to some degree.
However, tonight Salix will put Noctis on alert and have him keep watch and patrol the perimeter at regular intervals until dawn.
From: Porter
Subject Disquiet
If he did this, then there would no longer be a lack of large animals. Problem solved.
Brilliant!
From: Karl
Subject Disquiet
"Something in the area must have the animals spooked. All I can sense is the strangeness of their absense, not *why* they are avoiding this area. Harp, if you think it wise, I can use a new ability I was granted by Obad-Hai during my experience in the sacred grove. I can take the form of a bear or panther or other predator and see what I can sense in that form."
If Harp agrees, Salix will ask Mund specifically *what type* of large animals are missing from this area. (i.e. He doesn't want to take the shape of a tiger if they aren't native to this region anyway.)
From: Porter
Subject Animals
DM? What does Mund know about this?
From: Mark
Subject Animals
For the most part it would be the wild life of the lower Canadian Rockies, bears, elk, moose, a few types of large cat, like mountain lion, sheep, goats, etc
From: Porter
Subject Animals
Goat sounds....yummy. :)
From: Karl
Subject Disquiet
Well, not to get ahead of myself, does Salix notice anything about Noctis that would indicate he is agitated or upset about something? If so, it might be a good idea for him to pray for Speak with Animals, and find out from Noctis what is up, if he can.
From: Mark
Subject Disquiet
No, the birds in the area seem to not be bothered by whatever it is.
From: Karl
Subject Animal
Ok, assuming then that it is agreeable to the group, Salix will take wild shape (mountain lion) and see what he can sense. He will move around the camp area sensing. If he senses something trackable, like a scent, he will try to gather all the information about it he can (strength of scent, if it is on the ground or in the air, what direction it is coming from (air) or where it went (ground), and apparent distance, if he can tell, also what it might be (dragon, etc) if he can tell.) He will move out into the forest for some distance if necessary.
He will tell the group this so that they will know what he is up to.
From: Karl
Subject Animal
Mark, if there is any tracking advantage, please change the animal shape to wolf. If not, then just leave it at mountain lion.
(Thanks, Porter!) ;)
From: Randy
Subject Watch
Ranthir readily agrees to the proposed watch schedule.
OOC: Sorry I don't have much time today to add anyhting meaningful here. I just wanted to be sure to check in so you know I am still around.
From: Kevin
Subject Disquiet
"Salix, I appreciate your offer, but I am gravely concerned. *IF* there is something out there hunting larger animals, you would be hard pressed to protect yourself from it.
It goes against my better judgement, but go ahead. However, if you start to get a sense of what is causing this disturbance, please return. Our task is not to kill this thing, but to get to our assigned destination. We can deal with it if it waylays us, but if it ignores us, I plan to ignore it (OOC: like that has any chance of happening). If you can determine what it is, return at once - do not track it. We can guard against it better if we know what it is.
OOC: Does anyone have any spells that might help Salix's wild form? Before we let Salix get on his way, lets check tonight and respond tomorrow morning.
If any one else has any suggestions, let them fly.
From: Derek
Subject Disquiet
OOC: I've been super busy with deadlines and my first presentation at a conference this week. I'll do my best to keep up.
Allistair thinks alot about the observations of Salix and Mund. Both of them were very intimate with the natural world around them, though for different reasons. Allistair is at a loss as to what might be the cause, nor does he have any divining spells that could prove useful right now. He does have a familiar though, which posesses a sense of smell far beyond that of humans.
His posession of this particular familiar is not necessarily something that he wants disclosed, since he has found that often people do not feel comfortable around vipers, but seeing Salix with his owl he decides he must have a word with the druid. "Salix," he asks when he can speak with him somewhat privately, "As you are aware many mages employ the companionship of an animal. I myself have a snake by the name of Sysyphys, who is able speak with me." (He whispers a few hisses and a snake pokes its head out of Allistair's robe, flicks it's toungue a cople of times towards Allistair, and then disappears back in his robes.) "Sysyphus also posseses a keen sense of smell, and I would like to ask her to sniff around the campsite this evening. Do you think it would be possible to ask your owl to, well, look elsewhere when looking for meals?"
Assuming that Salix aswers in the positive, he will thank the druid. When he is alone for a few moments this evening (perhaps during his watch) he will talk to his snake, Sysyphys, asking her to move into the woods for an hour or so and see if she can detect any stange scents.
From: Derek
Subject Spells
OOC: My only spells that might prove useful to Salix would be invisibility or fly, but both of them are of too short duration to be much of a use at all. They'd probably be more useful if saved for combat.
Candygram
Subjet: Animals
OOC - Just so we're clear, I wasn't suggesting that Salix would go off tracking the thing himself. I was just trying to give Mark some parameters for what Salix would do, namely: He would change into the wild shape and sniff the air and ground. If he didn't find anything, he'd move out in widening circles sniffing and watching for any signs of danger or strangeness. If he didn't find anything he would move out into the woods around the camp and would be willing to go out to some distance (several hundred yards at least) until he either did find something or satisfied himself that there was nothing he could detect. If he *did* find something, he'd follow it just enough to determine what direction it is in, and if he can tell whether it is heading this way or already passed this way. He would *not* go off after it alone. /OOC)
From: Karl
Subject Animals
If we decide to go with this, Salix will hold off on the wild shape until we find out what Sysyphys discovers.
(Great name for your familiar, by the way. Is it "Sysyphys" or "Sysyphus"? You have it spelled both ways below.)
From: Mark
Subject Animals
What form is Salix going to take again? Wolf or mountain lion?
From: Kevin
Subject Animals
OOC: Salix may want to calm Harp's concerns. All Harp remembers is Salix's conversations about these new powers and feeling of strength he had when he leveled up. Harp is just trying to temper his friends desire to dash into the waiting maw of some large predator.
LOL.
From: Karl
Subject Animals
I don't know the rules on animals. If the wolf is much more likely to succeed in spot or tracking checks then go with wolf. If the Mountain Lion is just as good, I am guessing it would be better if it needed to defend itself or flee. If this is true I'll go with mountain lion. How can I find out the abilities of each? Salix would know and I don't want to delay the game just because I don't know.
From: Karl
Subject Animals
If Sysyphys doesn't find anything and Salix does take the wild shape, he will respond to Harp with "I'll be careful."
From: Jason
Subject Camp
ooc/ If I remember correctly, if a spellcaster interrupts his sleep he can't memorize/pray for spells in the morning, you need 8 hours w/o interruption. Is that right? If it is /ooc
Ragnar speaks to Harp about the watch schedules: "I'd be more than happy to stand a watch tonight. In general, however, the two of us will need a full nights sleep so that we are fully alert and responsive to Heironeous's will when we pray for his favor in the morning. Perhaps we would be able to take the watches on the ends." Its not critical this night, as Ragnar has not had to pray for any particular favors during the day.
After hearing Salix's idea, Ragnar says "If you wish, I can ask Heironeous to keep me advised on your condition while you are away, should anything unfortunate happen."
/ooc if Harp and Salix want it, he'll cast status before Salix heads out.
When I got back to school I found that my housemates had moved our router downstairs, and I didn't bring my wireless card, so internet access has been difficult. If I'm lucky, that will be fixed tonight. If not, I'll still be able to do a turn a day but no way can I keep up with the barrage of emails sent out yesterday :)
From: Mark
Subject Spells/prayers
I am a little flexible with those rules, especially with divine casters. Also, if you have not used any spells/prayers during the day, you do not need to pray the next morning. Only if you want to change spells/prayers or get back ones that were used. The food has been coming from scrolls.
If there is no combat during the night then I have no problem with clerics/MU taking a watch and still getting their full sleep time.
Now if something happens.
From: Mark
Subject Candygram
Harp nods at the information that Salix and Mund tell him. "I want to thank you two for bringing this to my attention. I am not sure what we can do about it, but we will do what we can. Mund, would you please get with Ran and work out a watch schedule. I think that Ragnar and I should split the middle watches since the dark does not affect us. Ran and Salix should split the watches on either side, while the humans and Surin can help keep watch with the others. Ran hides a small grin as he notices Harp act more like a corporal than a sergeant. "I will work it out Harp" he says kindly. Harp blushes a bit and turns to Mund and Salix.
"Is there anything we can do to find out more of what is causing this? Is it a natural occurrence or is something or someone pursuing us?" "It could be both" Salix replies "or neither. For example, if a dragon where hunting the area I would expect something like this. It might even be hunting us, only because we might be the only food of any size around." Seeing Harp look to the sky worriedly, Salix quickly reassures the 1/2 orc. "I do not think it is a dragon, as we have not seen any other type of sign, such as torn up trees and piles of bones, but I do not know much about them."
Allistair overhears Harp asking Salix about having Noctis keep a watch out over night. When the two are done talking Allistair walks over to the druid. "Salix, I know that you have traveled with spell weavers before and know that we often have animal companions. I would like to introduce you mine, Sysyphys." As Allistair says this a small snake pokes its head out of the mages sleeve and hisses nicely at the druid. The snake hisses for a bit and Allistair laughs. "He likes you. He says that you would not let that big bird eat him, as he is too small a morsel to feed such a large bird." Salix laughs as well and confirms that he will let Noctis know not to feed on Sysyphys. Allistair hisses at the snake and sets him on the ground. The little creature slithers off into the woods, his tongue darting in and out.
Salix, Mund and Harp wait around while the rest of the party starts making camp. Allistair's snake comes back after about 15 minutes and has a quick conversation with the mage. The human then approaches his brother and the other two. "Sysyphys is not sure what it is. He says that there is a strange taste to the ground but that it is all over the place. It is not localized anywhere. Sorry." Salix nods and looks at the others. In the increasing darkness, he moves to the edge of the camp and gets down on his hands and knees. The others watch, not sure what is about to happen. Over a period of a few seconds the shape of the 1/2 elf is replaced with the shape of a wolf, albeit one with a slight tinge of green to its fur. The beast stalks off in to the woods surrounding the camp. A couple of hours later the wolf returns and takes the shape of Salix again.
His face looks invigorated and alive, his eyes burning with joy. It takes him a while to come down off the high he had been on. After a few minutes he is finally able to tell the others what he has found. "Actually, I was not able to find anything, and that is what worries me. As we have already seen, or not seen, there are no large animals. Not to be heard, not to be seen, not to be scented. No tracks, no spoor, no trails. There are some odd markings on many of the trees, near to ground level, but I do not know what they are. There are no bones of dead animals. I am at a complete loss. I can not find anything that is threatening, but to me that is threatening."
There is a bit more discussion but camp is set anyway. Food is eaten, weapons left by the side of the bedroll, spell components in hand when sleep comes. Those on watch during the night find the silence strange. The small creatures of the night are still around, the crickets, the frogs, the other insects, but no sound of deer or wolf, or badger. The night passes and the party breaks fast the next morning. As they are packing up the horses there is a loud crash off to the east, in the woods. All looking over that way, they see a large tree crash to the ground and something that looks like a fin appear from under the ground about 50 feet away. Salix hisses "Bulette".
OODM: I will get a map out tonight.
From: Derek
Subject Candygram
OOC: Anyone remember the SNL skit?
"Hello?"
"Land Shark."
From: Kevin
Subject Spells/prayers
OOC: Marks interpretation of the rules is that clerics do not have to sleep 8 straight, but have time for quiet meditation for 8 hours before praying in the morning. Mark, please confirm this issue for me.
From: Mark
Subject Spells/prayers
They need a total of 8 hours sleep, but that can be broken up a bit as long as no large physical exertion happens in the break. They then need their hour of meditation to get new or change spells.
From: Karl
Subject Familiars and companions
"You needn't worry," Salix replies. "Noctis is familiar with . . . well with 'familiars' and should have no problem distinguishing between your familiar and a *real* snake." The way he says "real" makes it clear that although Salix doesn't recoil or show any outward sign of fear of Sysyphys, he does harbor some small distaste for, if not Sysyphys specifically, then either snakes or familiars in general. (Allistair probably isn't sure which.)
"However, I can't say the same for the native birds or any other animals around here. If you want to send your familiar into the woods, perhaps I should send Noctis along to help guard him. I'll make sure he keeps his distance, but he can keep an eye out for anything that might think your familiar would make a good lunch."
From: Mark
Subject Map, initiatives and round 1
Ok here is the intiative for this combat.
Surin(24), Mund(20), Ran(18), Ragnar(17), Salix(14), Allistair(14), Landshark(11), Kal(8), Harp (7).
Here is a map. Remember you are facing east and the beast is actually about 60 feet away. It used it's surprise round to come to the surface.
I need actions for round 1.
From: Jake
Subjec: Candygram
Has Surin ever heard of one of these things before?
From: Josh
Subject Travels
OOC: Hey guys, I've been busy lately, sorry I haven't gotten anything out.
Throughout the trip Kal has been very quiet. While travelling, Kal always volunteers for the most solitary post, keeping his distance from everyone in the party.
Surprisingly, he's very receptive to Harps leadership. While still very formal with the half-orc, Kal seems to have quenched his hatred for Harp.
Kal spends all of his free time practicing his sword-fighting, and occasionally in conversation with Salin. Where Kal has grown even more distant with the rest of the party (particularly Harp), he seems to have found one friend in Surin.
The other elves in the party are surprised at Kal's lack of joy. He seems to face every day with a grim determination to make it as long and painful as possible. They rarely see him smile or laugh like the rest of their kin, but after a while they grow accustomed to his intensity.
He trains with a fierce devotion which is inspiring to the rest of the party. (Except Mund, who is still unconvinced Kal's needle of a blade could do anything but tickle an opponent). Even Harp finds grudging respect for Kal's rigid devotion to his art.
Constantly battling non-existant opponents, it eventually becomes clear to everyone that Kal's training is just a by product of a larger internal battle. When approached by anyone but Surin, Kal keeps all conversation curt and formal, only giving and taking information he needs to be effective in the group.
In the short time Surin and Kal spend talking, Kal seems to open up completely, laughing and smiling like the rest of the party has come to expect from elves. However, Kal quickly becomes guarded again whenever anyone else gets within earshot.
From: Josh
Subject Candygram
Kal draws his sword and begins chanting the arcane words necessary to cast shield. After he's done casting he'll run to the front line and stand ready with the rest of the party.
From: Mark
Subject Jake's question
Probably not.
From: Mark
Subject Landshark
Ok a brief description of this thing.
It is about 10 feet at the shoulder and walks on all fours, it is 15 feet long. As you can see from the map it is a huge creature and has a 10 foot reach. Remember that. The body looks to be made of armor plate with a huge snapping maw and short powerful legs.
From: Josh
Subject Landshark
Mark,
I've got three questions:
1) Kal's got a 7 balance and an 11 tumble. How difficult does he estimate it would be to get on this things back and stay there? He has rope and can tie some sort of slipping loop knot, so if he gets there, he can brace himself on with that. (looping it around some spike in the armor and sliding it tight).
2) Can Kal see the back of the thing? What does it look like?
From: Kevin
Subject Landshark
Harp looks on in amazement at the size of thsi thing coming from the ground. It looked like a huge armored turtle or a huge rolly polly bug. But he was sure that this thing was deadly. But how to attack it? He was not sure. Salix seemed to know what it was, maybe he would have some suggestions. Shouting to the Druid, he says "Salix, what is this thing, and how do we kill it?"
Waiting for an answer if any, Harp will pray to Heironious for his blessing in the coming battle (Bless on group).
OOC: Mark, how does Harp, with the improved initiative feat, end up with a freaking 7? I know it is possible to roll a 3, but come on. Lets not make things any harder than they have to be.
From: Jake
Subject Landshark
Surin goggles for a moment at the beast that has reared up from the ground, frozen into immobility for what seems like an eternity by the sheer, unexpected strangenes of the thing. With a start he comes to. It's huge, certainly, but it had to have vulnerabilities. A well placed blade might blind the thing, or even pierce the back of its throat and choke it. The thing's maw is a huge, gaping thing--definitely an easier target than its beady eyes. Surin's hand seems almost to flicker as he sends his throwing dagger spinning toward the thing's open mouth.
From: Josh
Subject Landshark
"OOC: Mark, how does Harp, with the improved initiative feat, end up with a freaking 7? I know it is possible to roll a 3, but come on. Lets not make things any harder than they have to be."
DAMNIT. I saw my 9 and thought of 2nd edition rules, where low is good. :(
From: Porter
Subject Attack
About how far did it move last round? As in, how likely is it that if Mund doesn't move, he'll still get to attack the critter?
From: Mark
Subjet: Harp and Kal
Actaully Harp had a 1+6 for a 7. Harp and Kal were probably squabbling. :)
From: Mark
Subject Kal
You can try if you want, but you will have to get the rope out, make the noose/loop, which would require a use rope skill, then probably make a ranged touch attack with a non proficient weapon and then start some type of grapple against a creature that just knocked down a 40 foot tall tree.
You do know that the Legolas thing with the elephant was CGI? :)
Kal has not seen the back yet but there is an amored crest that looks like a shark fin on the top.
From: Mark
Subject Delay/ready action
It does not look like it moved very far, but it is out from under the ground now.
Mund can either delay action or ready an action. Both of these actions can affect your initiative order for the rest of the combat. If you have the PHB page 160 covers this.
Landshark round 1
Subject Round 1
Mund does as much of the following as he can in one round (in order):
He screams in rage (begin rage, free action).
Mund throws the hunting knife he has in his hand (remember, he was whittling).
He draws his axe.
He moves out in front of the weaker members of the group.
From: Karl
Subject Round 1
"It's a bulette. I've never faced one before," Salix replies quickly. Now was not exactly the time for a nature lesson, even if he could give one. Surely it wouldn't help to mention that the only lessons Salix had received about bulettes came from stories about druid expeditions that never returned home.
Even while answering Harp, Salix places his hand on the holy symbol of the acorn and oak-leaves embossed into his leather armor. He prays to Obad-Hai in the language no one else in the party understands. As he prays there is a deep rumble in the sky. (Call Lightning).
Salix will call the first bolt directly into the back of the bulette.
(OOC - What's the weather like, Mark? Any chance the conditions are favorable for lighning so I get my bonus? Also, the thing is big enough that if I target the center of its back I should be able to hit without damaging any of the party in melee, right? (5ft. target.) )
From: Mark
Subject Weather
The weather is not right for the additional damage. However you should be able to hit it with out damaging the other party members.
As long as it does not attack and kill you. The spell is a full round spell which means it will not go off until your action next round.
From: Kevin
Subject Weather
OOC: Karl, I don't *think* it can move enough to get to us this turn. It moves 40 and we are 60 away. Next turn things get fun.
Derrek, any spells in your bag of tricks you can use? A nice fireball, maybe fly above it, throwing magic missles, I am open to suggestions.
Mark, Harp will cast his bless spell, for all the good it does for everyone this round, he will then move up a few feet to be with Mund at the front of the group. He will draw his sword in preparation for combat next turn.
Any other suggestions on how to beat this thing will be appreciated.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1
Of course it could run and move 160 or take a double move and move 80.
From: Kevin
Subject Surprise
How come the character groups in these things never get surprise, they always get surprised? Just once, I would like to get a free round of actions.
Folks early in the initiative list, I am thinking Ranged attacks as best we can. Then Harp, Mund, and Ran get to wade in. Kal and Ragnar can join us, but if this thing connects, we are going to be in a world of hurt.
From: Randy
Subject Round 1
Ranthir pulls his crossbow up and aims for the mouth of the beast. Adrenaline starts pumping in his veins. He steadies himself and focuses on his target. His expression turns cold and he blocks everything else out of his mind. He squeezes the trigger and drops the crossbow reaching to draw his longsword.
From: Derek
Subject Round 1
OOC: That's pretty much what I was planning. With all of us to one side, I'm confident I can get off a fireball this round without endangering anyone else. I'll probably fly and launch my MM's at him after that, so assuming I can get in the air I shouldn't need any protection after that. If things get really bad for the rest of the party, I have a rope trick spell I can cast.
Allistair freezes momentarily with shock as the beast rises out of the ground to attack them. He had seen his share of fantastic beasts, he had even spoken with a dragon once. But it was a little different when something was trying to kill you. Allistair quickly shakes his head to clear it and concentrates. He has several spells prepared, hanging ready in his mind, that just need a few words and gestures to be complete. He reaches into his robes and pulls out a small ball ball of sulfur mixed with bat guano. As he moves his hands and speaks the final words of the spell, he points his finger towards the Bulette. A glowing bead of light streaks towards the beast.
OOC: Since the fireball has a range of 20, I shouldn't need to do anything special on choosing the point of impact so it doesn't harm any allies. Just to be safe you might want to stick with ranged attacks this round, though.
From: Mark
Subject Surprise
Well you were not completely surprised, like you would have been if it had surfaced in the middle of the party. The spot checks and all did give you a round of activity.
You are in it's hunting territory. You do resemble a rather nice meal.
Maybe next time I will have Harp find a infant orc to deal with. Maybe then he will be happy.
From: Mark
Subject Fireball
Just to let you know the area of effect is a 20' radius spread, which is a 40 foot diameter circle. The range for Allistair is 600 feet. This is almost too close.
From: Karl
Subject Surprise
And, for the record, didn't Harp pretty much say earlier that we were gonna ignore the "whateveritis" unless it attacks us? Can't really get a surprise "ignore" round now can we?
From: Porter
Subject Surprise
It's so cute...
Can Mund keep it?
From: Jason
Subject Round 1
Ragnar watches as the creature rises to the surface with considerably less amazement than his companions. Travelling underground just seemed fairly natural to him, and he had heard rumors about these huge predators that could destroy all life in an area in just a short time. Ragnar never had such an attachment to nature as Salix or Mund, but he was particularly fond of the Wildlands. Anger rises up within him as he considers the destruction this creature had caused. That will end here, he promises himself silently. He steps forward and in a loud voice petitions Heironeous to cover the eyes of his opponent, that he may no longer see his prey. (Cast Blindness-range 150 ft).
ooc/ If we're about ready to go, does that mean I'm all dressed up in my armor? If so, I'll step up towards the front line after casting my spell.
From: Kevin
Subject Surprise
OOC: I meant that we were not going to go after it, but we were worried that something might be out there. We would have (or at least Ragnar might have) sensed it moving undergroud.
Oh well, no crying over surfaced landsharks. Lets just beat the silly thing to death and be on our way.
I think our friendly spell casters will have some serious input on this thing. If we have to hack it to death, we will be moving forward with less than 8 members.
At least Harp is less likely to get caught in an AOO since EVERYONE else gets to move before him.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1
Dwarf in a can.
Of course Ragnar would say that, he remembers that Landsharks tend to think of dwarfs as stringy and tough. Not all that good eatin, as compared to the appitizer that halflings make and the main course that Mund and Harp will make.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1
Ok I think I have every ones actions in.
harp is doing a bless, Ran and Surin are shooting, Mund is raging and throwing a dagger, Salix is casting a spell, Kal is casting, Allistair is casting fireball, and Ragnar is casting blindness.
That is all 8 of you.
From: Porter
Subject AOO
Landshark round 2
Subject Round 2 actions
OOC: Allright. I guess my best bet is to fly then. I think I'll try and get 40' or so above the LS, then drop spells on him. I'm thinking I'll try a web spell, and then a fireball. Unless you guys try and flank him immediately.
Allistair is thankful that the warriors in the party immediately move forward, placing themselves between the monster and himself. However in this case, Allistair needs a better point of view to use his last fireball without endangering his friends, and with this monster rooted to the ground he can actually be more maneuverable than anyone else, because he has access to movement in a 3rd dimension. He reaches into his robe to access one of his many small pockets, and pulls out a white feather. He casts the spell that gives him the power of flight.
From: Karl
Subject Round 2 actions
Salix, of course, will actually call down a lightning bolt this round.
Hopefully the air will be filled with the smell of fried landshark.
From: Porter
Subject Soup
I hear landshark fin soup is actually very tasty.
Mund looks forward to finding out.
From: Derek
Subject Out of town
I'm leaving town for the weekend. We're going to Oklahoma for a few days to *not* attend my high school 10-year reunion. (i.e. a lot of my friends I haven't seen in years are coming into town and I want to see them, but I have no desire to actually attend any of the reunion activities, which will be several hours of the popular/rich crowd congratulating themselves on how wonderful they are.) Anyway, I've asked Porter to take care of Allistair in the meantime.
From: Jason
Subject Round 2 Actions
Ragnar mumbles that Heironeous would never have problems blinding such a monstrosity if he only had more faithful servants with which to work. "Forgive my lack of faith, and protect me as I go forth myself to do thy will" he prays. (Shield of Faith on self, then move up into the space down and right from where Kal shows up on the map; its not threatened, so the Landshark will still have to move up to attack Mund, Harp or myself.)
From: Randy
Subject Round 2 actions
Ranthir, seeing that Salix is still in the process of working some power, will move to put himself between Salix and the Landshark, staying just out of reach of the enemy.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
Ok It looks like every one has a turn in.
I will try and get a turn out tonight.
From: Mark
Subject Round 2 results
Initiative:Surin, Mund, Ran, Ragnar, Salix, Allistair, Landshark, Kal, Harp.
Surin watches his sling bullet bounce off the heavily armored skin of the creature. Damn, it was always like that. Halflings were great as sneaking up and putting the hurt where it counted the most, but when the big guys started having fun, his little pig sticker just could not do the damage. Well, he would have to try something different. Sliding one of the small vials out of the pouch at his waist, he drinks the elixir down. It feels like he just swallowed some of his aunt Petunia's championship chili. He moves up the side of the fray, looking for a spot to make an attack.
Mund decides to wait and see if the creature will continue its attack when it is obviously outnumbered. He shouts a curse in Orcish at the beast and is surprised when the creature does not understand him. Looking at the elf next to him he says "You might want to let the big boys take this on. That beast is liable to swallow you in one bite, and all you got is that needle." (Delay Action, wait on landshark)
Glancing around, Ran sees Salix still concentrating on his prayer. He also sees Harp starting to move down the right flank of the beast. He takes a few steps forward and to the left, to place himself next to Mund, ahead of Salix and into a position to flank the creature with Harp in the coming minutes of battle.
Ragnar blames himself for the prayers lack of effect. His ears burning at the curse that Mund had just shouted, Ragnar draws his longsword, readies his shield and tromps forward, hoping the beast does not just stomp him into the ground.
Salix finishes his prayer and the weather changes abruptly. Hairs start to stand up on peoples arms and dust swirls around. Salix points at the back of the beast and a stroke of lightening streaks from the sky, striking at the creature. The bolt hits the fin and power flows around the beast. (DC16, 11+8=19, save, 1/2 damage, 4 damage.) The beast hardly notices it.
Allistair sees that it is getting crowded around the beast and decides to get a better view of the area. Taking out the small feather from his component pouch, he chants the spell, touches himself with the feather and starts to float. He raises 20 feet in to the air and now has a great view of the battle field.
The beast rages forward, just as Mund had hoped it would do. When it gets with in reach of his axe, he takes a mighty swing. (AC22, 11+12=23, hit, damage 7) His axe slices along the nose of the shark and leaves a bleeding trail. Mund howls at the site of the blood. "It bleeds and so we can kill it. ATTACK" he screams.
The landshark in return bites at Mund and crunches the man in his jaws. (AC20, 11+16=27, hit, damage 14). Mund's breast plate takes most of the damage, but there are raged tooth marks all along the bright armor.
The sudden movement of the shark places Kal right in front of it. For some reason the beast ignores Kal. He decides to back away and give himself some space in which to cast his spell. He moves carefully away from the creature.(Withdraw move)
Watching out for the stumpy legs, Harp moves in closer to the creature, ready to attack with all his might when the opportunity presents itself.
OODM: Ok that is the end of round 2. I have attached a map of every ones locations. Allistair is 20 feet in the air. I need actions for round 3.
From: Jason
Subject Round 3 actions
Ragnar grins tightly to himself. The foul-mouthed barbarian had the right idea; let the beast come to him. He had petitioned, and Heironeous had answered. Now it was up to him and his new comrades to do his master's work. And the brute had conveniently brought itself in to close range. Bellowing a warcry common to his order, he steps forward and slashes the landshark with all his might.
/ooc Ragnar will step next to the bulette and next to Harp as well, to see if he can benefit from some sort of flanking bonus. It shouldn't be able to get to Surin anyways without bowling over us (which I'm sure it could do!)
From: Jason
Subject Mund and Ragnar
I'm not sure if he is just RPing Mund well or if he hasn't noticed my character sheet, but I don't think that Mund realizes that Ragnar speaks Orcish. I'm planning on surprising him with that later. If I get to surprise the player too, that's just a bonus :)
From: Kevin
Subject Round 3 actions
Harp will attack (utilizing his flanking benefit from Ran if that is still the case by my turn).
Not much else to wrrite except I wonder if Harp likes grilled shark.
From: Porter
Subject LS facing
What direction is the LS facing? Directly towards Mund?
Landshark round 3 actions, long weekend
Subject Round 3 actions
Damn! Salix thinks. The thing is quick and that armor is tough! The bolt hit, but the power didn't seem to even slow the beast. But Mund had drawn blood. With a new chink in its armor, perhaps the next bolt would reach inside and fry a little bulette flesh. "Oh Great One! Bringer of Storms! Grant me your spear of light and strike this beast" Salix prays aloud.
Salix will call another bolt (and Karl will hope for a luckier roll.
From: Josh
Subject Round 3 actions
Kal's casting scorching ray this round.
OOC: I'd type more but i'm totally wasted right now.
From: Mark
Subject Salix
Just remember that the damage is onl 3D6 and half if saved. At least it is some damage every round.
From: Mark
Subject Mund and Shark
Yes the beasts is facing Mund at the moment, all the better to chew on his armor.
From: Mark
Subject Ragnar and armor
I forgot to write it last night, and it really did not make a difference, but Ragnar used his shield of Faith prayer before he moved so now he has a shimmering magical field around him.
From: Kevin
Subject Ragnar and armor
So the big ugly beasty (and I don't mean Mund) now only has to roll an 8 instead of a 6 to hit him. I am sure that he is resting easy in his plate mail.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 3 actions
As Harp fights, he sees Alistair rise into the air, hovering above the group. "I wish I could do that" he thinks to himself. " I could stay up there and fire cross bow bolts at that thing all day". That thought gives him an idea.
Calling out, he says "Alistair, if you see an opening or can help coordinate our movements from up there, do so. You have the best view of what is happening."
Harp then sees Brother Ragnar move up to his side, a shimmering shield of force surrounding him. It is obvious to Harp that his fellow member of the Order has been given some grace by the Battle Lord. Remembering that they are not in this fight alone, Harp yells at Ragnar "Come, let us show this beast not to meddle in the affairs of Heironious. Let us smite him quickly so that we may be on our way".
OOC:My original attack order still stands.
From: Porter
Subject Mund and Allistair Round 3 actions
Mund feels satisfying squelch as his axe cuts and crushes into the critter's flesh. Now we're getting somewhere. Unfortunately, this critter is smart enough to recognize that Mund is the only real threat it has. Everybody else is flitting around or playing with godsmagic or elfmagic. "Attack it, you lackwits!" he yells at those competent to swing heavy or sharp objects at it. Mund shouldn't have to kill this thing on his own.
------
Allistair surveys the battle from above. The lightning makes him nervous, but trusts that the elf has enough control of his nature magic to not hit Allistair.
Part of him is pleased to see Mund effectively damage the creature, even while he is chagrined to see his childhood tormentor and rival apparently do more damage than Allistair's eldrich powers. Well, let's see if it responds to a second fireball.
Allistair forms another fireball, aiming it so that it hits the creature from above and the north-east. He should have no trouble hitting the LS and missing all his comrades.
From: Randy
Subject Round 3 actions
Ranthir continues to flank the creature and watches for a chance to get an attack in. When he sees his opportunity, he swings with all his might, hoping to help end this before anyone gets seriously wounded.
From: Mark
Subject Round 3
Ok every one has replied.
I was hoping to get a turn out at lunch today but I just got dumped on by all the people leaving at noon for the rest of the day.
Also, all my info on the fight is at home so it will probably have to wait until later. I do have several appointements this afternoon and an in person game tonight so it might be tomorrow before I can get a turn out.
From: Mark
Subject Candygram joke
How many of you guys got the Candygram joke?
From: Porter
Subject Candygram
I didn't get it, but now that I think about it, I do. :)
From: Kevin
Subject Candygram
Given my advanced age, I did recognize the joke. It was poor then and poor now.
From: Randy
Subject Round 3 actions and away for the weekend
OOC: I don't know if you guys have a long weekend this weekend but we do here so I will probably not get a turn in until Tuesday. If you need to go on without me, Ranthir will continue to attack and flank the bulette.
From: Mark
Subject Long weekend
Oh it is a 3 day weekend for us as well. Labor day, the end of summer.
I will write up a turn this weekend sometime but I do not expect to do another one until Tuesday night or Wednesday.
From: Jake
Subject Candygram joke
I did.
Landshark round 3 results
Subject Candygram
I didn't. :-/
From: Mark
Subject Round 3 results
Initiative:Surin, Ran, Ragnar, Salix, Allistair, Mund, Landshark, Kal, Harp.
Surin feels the potion in his mouth burn, but it is a good type of burn. Looking for an open space around the creature, Surin moves a bit back and to his left. With a clear shot Surin makes a disgusting hawking sound in his throat and spits a huge loogie at the beast. When the wad of phlegm touches the air it bursts into flames and it almost explodes when it hits the creature. The landshark is distracted by all the other people attacking it and the ball of flame lands squarely on it face.(Damage 11) Surin shouts with glee, small balls of sparks falling from his mouth.
Ran decides that it is time to take direct action. He takes a swing at the creatures leg and his sword bounces off the armored skin there. (AC22,3+11=14, miss)
Ragnar takes a step forward (5 foot step) and strikes at front left leg. His sword connects but the armored skin is too thick and the blade rebounds with out leaving a mark.(AC22, 8+8=16, miss)
Salix sees that his power had some affect on the creature. "Let's see if another strike does even more." With another gesture a second bolt of energy strikes the back of the beast. (DC16 REF save, 14+8=22,save, damage 5)
From his position up in the air, Allistair can see that his companions are concentrated on two sides of the large beast. Willing himself to fly due east as fast as he can, he gets himself into a position where the rest of the party is basically blocked by the bulk of the creature. As he flys he pulls another ball of guano and sulfur from his pouch and when he reaches the point he was trying to get to he throws the ball and it streaks to the point his indicates. A 40 foot ball of flame engulfs the rear left quarter of the beast. The beast, beset on two other sides has no where to dodge and takes the full brunt of the blast.(DC16 REF save, 2+8=10, fail, damage 13)
Mund barely notices his brother flying through the air, but he does notice the huge ball of flame behind the beast that had not been there? Had Ally done that? His little shrimp brother? Naw, it had to have been one of the elf things. Doesn't matter, he thinks. Only cold steel will kill this thing, and he takes another huge swing with his axe. He connects again(AC22, 11+12=23,hit) and this time he catches the beast under the armored jaw. (Damage 12).
The creature howls in pain and it does something surprising. It leaps into the air and claws at all four of the people attacking it. He catches Mund a bit off guard and scores a solid hit(AC20, 13+15=28, hit, damage 7). Ran finds himself smashed in the chest by a set of claws, only the fine elven chain mail between him and his belly being opened to the world. (AC20,8+15=23, hit, damage 13) Harp is surprised a bit when a claw lashes back at him, but his is able to get his shield up in time to block the claws.(AC22, 5+15=20,miss) Ragnar is also startled that something that big could move that fast and is just a second slow getting his shield around.(AC23, 8+15, hit, damage 7) The claw rakes across his armor, knocking the breath from him but other wise none the worse for wear.
Kal makes an odd gesture with his rapier and chants the words he learned that would allow him to project his power through his weapon. He has noticed that over the last few weeks, all of his practice has made it easier for him to control this power and that he might soon be able to do this several times a day. However, this time he aims at the brutes armored back and releases the energy in him. A tounge of flame leaps from the tip of the rapier and sears into the flesh of the beast. (AC10, 19+8=27, hit, damage 10)
Harp takes advantage of the creatures being off balance a bit from its leap and is able to land a solid blow behind the left rear leg, almost cutting the limb off. (AC22, 17+12=29, hit, damage 9).
OODM: End of round 3. New map attached, showing where the fireball hit and everyones locations at the end of the round. I need round 4 actions.
Round 4 actions
Subject AC question
Quick question; I think I made a mistake on my character sheet. A heavy wooden shield is +2 AC right? So a heavy shield +1 would be +3? If that's true, my AC would be 24 at the moment, which would be nice for reasons that should be obvious. I'll send out my turn tomorrow.
From: Jason
Subject Round 4 action
Ragnar is a bit startled by the landshark's leaping attack, but he ignores the scratch and presses on with his attack. If the creature couldn't do any better than this, Heironeous would have them all at their peak form as soon as the battle was over. "Is this really the best Hextor can do?" he thinks, smirking to himself. He takes a moment to concentrate and then presses the attack again. (normal attack from where he is, unless moving helps him flank.)
From: Porter
Subject Mund and Allistair Round 4 actions
OOC: Next turn, would you mind giving us HP totals for our characters? Thanks.
-----------------------------
Although it has obviously noticed the others swinging at it, it's main focus still seems to be on Mund. If he can get it to follow him, his companions could all flank it and get in some good shots. He looks around, and is frustrated to see that if he moves back very far, he'll put the critter right where it would be able to attack the weaker members of the party. Kral.
Frustrated, Mund abandons tactics and puts his shoulder into another mighty swing.
-----------------------------
Alistair grins in satisfaction as his second fireball does obvious damage to this beast. He wonders who will be able to keep this up longer -- Mund who is getting chomped on, or Alistair, whose eldritch powers weaken with each spell.
Alistair sends a magic missile to the beast. Not the most impressive of spells, but there's a reason why it's a classic.
From: Jake
Subject Round 4 actions
Surin laughs. A moment ago he'd been afraid that this thing would be their death; now it looked as though the thing was on its last legs. Assuming that there weren't more of these things, they were in the clear. He snorts, drawing another ball of phlegm into his mouth, and holds it there for a moment, enjoying the heat of it, before spitting it toward the creature's head.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 4 actions
Harp starts to yell at Surin as the halfling moves to the front. He has no weapons that can hurt this thing, and if this creature gets one good swipe at Surin, Harp is sure the little guy would be cut in half. Then, it looks like Surin spits at the creature - what is wrong with him? Then, the spit ball catches on fire and explodes on the creatures face. What is this? Some type of circus magic? Or had Surin been practicing with Allistair. Which brought up the other sight of surprise.
Harp watches in amazement as Allistair rises into the air and then throws another fireball at the creature, but missing all of them. What control. Mund might not appreciate his brothers abilities, but Harp sure did.
The creature was taking some serious damage. Hopefully, only a few more strokes would put it down. With battle cry echoing Ragnar's, Harp positions himself and takes another swing.
OOC: Good turn guys. Lets put this thing out of our misery this turn.
From: Karl
SubjectCandygram joke
Yeah, I got it. :)
From: Josh
Subject Round 4 actions
Kal, deciding to conserve his magic, will run forward and attack the land-shark with his sword.
Round 4 results
Subject Turn
Ok I think I know what every one is going to do.
I will try and have a turn out this afternoon.
From: Mark
Subject Round 4
Initiative:Surin, Ran, Ragnar, Salix, Allistair, Mund, Landshark, Kal, Harp.
Still laughing at the success of his last attack, Surin spits another ball of flame at the brute and splatters fire all over its head.(REF save, DC12, 3+8=11, fail, damage 9) The beast is starting to look frantic, trying to figure out a way to get out of this mess it has found itself in.
Ran takes another swing, this time making sure that he is able to take advantage of how distracted the beast is. He sees a gap in the armor just under the head and behind the front right leg. He is able to slide his blade deep into the creature. AC22, 19+11=30, hit, critical threat, critical threat roll, AC22 19+11=30, hit, critical hit, damage 18) As he pulls his blade out he sees the creature shudder and fall into a heap at his feet.
Ragnar, still a bit shaken from the claw to his chest just a few seconds ago, makes sure that the beast is dead by hacking at its head until it separates from the rest of the body. Panting a bit at the exertion, he looks around the party. "Is everyone ok? Any one in immediate need of healing?
OODM: OK fight is over. You can role play the aftermath.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 4
OOC: Well, that was quite anit-climactic. No death throes from the beast, no fatal damage to be cured by the grace of the Battle Lord? No chance for Kal to get swiped at so Harp could save his life.
Oh well, I guess you are too tired from you supervisory work this morning.
IC: Harp looks on as Ragnar hacks the head of the beast off. He is breathing hard, but otherwise unhurt. The beast had certainly looked much more dangerous than it had turned out to be, but then magic had played a large roll in their success. Harp looks over and sees that Mund has a few large wound in and around his armor. Harp walks over, claps Mund on the shoulder and says, "You treated me better than that the other day. Were you taking it easy on this thing so the rest of us could feel useful? Here, let me help you with some of those wounds"
As Harp says this, Mund whirls around, a crazed glint in his eyes. He starts to swing his axe at Harp, and Harp has to deflect the whirling axe. Harp shouts at Mund -"Mund, the enemy is dead!!!". With that, Mund stops, looks around, takes a few deep breaths, and the crazed look slowly leaves his eyes. Harp says to him again "Here, let me help you with those wounds".
OOC: Harp will cast sacrafice what cure spells he can to help Mund. He will leave the others to Ragnar.
From: Jason
Subject Round 4
Ragnar pays particular attention to those who were closest to the bulette, trying to see if anyone is particularly wounded. Noticing the blood on Ran's armor, he hurries over and offers Heironeous's relief, saying its the least he can do. (Assuming its accepted, sacrifice status to cure moderate wounds.) After checking on everyone else, he'll sacrifice Divine Favor to heal himself.
Turning to look at Surin, Kal or Allistair (whichever is nearby) Ragnar comments "While I doubt that Heironeous would pass judgement on such a beast, I'd imagine this one would find the flames of Hell no more torturous than those you gave it."
From: Porter
Subject Round 4
Mund releases his fury and the light-headedness and giddiness that always follow battle wash over him. At another time, Mund might not have let that smug half-Orc get away with that, but right now Mund just can't find it in himself to be angry.
Mund looks around to check on his little brother. There he is, floating down like a fairy. At least he had the smarts to stay away from the fight, where he belongs.
"Hooo-Eeeey!" he yells. "I don't know about y'all, but I'm looking to find out what this critter tastes like. Let's get some meat a-roasting!"
Mund looks at the halfling and his eyes widen. He had only caught it out of the corner of his eye, but it is now clear that at least some of that fire came from the halfling. "How did you do that? Can all halflings spit fire like that? Are you part dragon?"
From: Jake
Subject Round 4
Surin laughs, sparks flying from his mouth as he does so. "Well, there is some mystery as to who my real grandpa was--grandma was a bit notorious, you might say, for her wandering, or so I've heard it told. Nobody's ever said nothing about dragons in the family tree though. No, I reckon this potion had more to do with it," he says, holding up the empty vial. We came across this a bit before we met up with you, and this seemed like a good time to use it."
He pauses for a moment, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "You know, I remember a storyteller once, told a bunch of us about a hero...Laird, I think his name was. Ever heard stories about old Laird? Anyway, he killed himself some beast or other out in the woods, just like we did, and he cut the thing up, looking in it's belly for treasure. The story goes that he found a pouch of gems and a ring in there, worth enough he didn't have to go monster hunting ever again, though he did anyway. Might not be such a bad idea to have a look in this thing's stomach. Probably just elk bones and the like, but you never know."
Food and armor
Subject Cleaning up
Salix chuckles at Surin's resourcefulness. Perhaps it was part of the effects of taking the wild shape, but upon seeing the creature dead and headless, his first thought was, I wonder how this thing tastes. "It might be worth a look indeed," Salix says. "Mund, do you know if the meat is worth salvaging? It looks pretty well armored, but I'm sure we could get a knife under the plates around the neck area, what with the head gone."
Salix realizes that time is precious on this journey, and that they don't *need* the meat, at least not *now*, but he is loath to waste the resources of nature, however he comes upon them. "I know there's no time for it, but I bet a good craftsman could fashion a decent set of armor out of the hide of this creature. Have you ever heard of that Mund?"
From: Porter
Subject Dinner?
"Elf, you read my mind. Ain't nothing better than eating a critter that tried to kill you earlier today." Mund starts building a fire for dinner.
I have heard for that. I've known a few folk with dragon-hide armor. Or so they claimed -- I've never seen a dragon myself, so I ain't no judge."
"But I'll be we can skin enough of this critter and preserve the hide that we could make some fun looking armor for you. I understand that some of you godsfolk ain't too keen on using metal armor. This should be right up your alley."
"Besides, the chicks love a distinctive set of armor. Trust me."
OOC: I'm leaving for jury duty before too long. I might not be back at all today.
From: Kevin
Subject Dinner
Only problem folks, is that this would be 2nd breakfast. This thing attacked at dawn after a fitful night on watch.
IC: Harp overhears the exchange between Salix and Mund. He intervenes - "Friends, go ahead and split it open to see if there is anything inside of it, but we have no time to dally. The sun rises and we still have a ways to go, and we need not worry about food. The grace of Heironious has seen to that. The rest of us will finish breaking camp while you two explore the creature. You have 1/2 hour, then we move on.
With that, Harp will ask Ran to organize the striking of the camp while he checks on the rest of the members of the party well being. Any wounds should be healed before leaving.
From: Mark
Subject Hit Point status
HP status
Mund 27 out of 48.
Ran 30 out of 43
Ragnar 33 out of 40
From: Porter
Subject Food and armor
Mund is confused. He has no idea why he thought it was evening instead of morning.
If Salix wants to make some armour from the hide of this beast, Mund will help skin enough of it. If he's not that interested, Mund will just pack up some of the tastiest flesh for dinner tonight.