Enigmatic Magical Troupe 5000

Title: Enigmatic Magical Troupe 5000

Location: Outside of the Adventurers’ Guild

Time: Very early Morning

Early morning at the adventures guild for Altar just means that he was here all night. He does not drink all night, or ever for that matter, but he does like to watch those who do. He is of a curious sort, and like to know why people do the things they do. By now the drinking will have died down, the revelry all but played out, and most people having gone home. Having no special need to go anywhere, Altar is just standing near the job board, against the wall, waiting for something else to happen.

Lorien is still here. He has been for about a day. Why? It's hard to know. He's been unusually a bit quiet as of recently, as he watches the people about their business. It's quiet. He also has his rifle slung to a strap, Eluna symbol on it, matte-black, silver sheen, blue mana-lines. The youth settles about near the job board waiting on a bench, curiously looking at a locket which is opened to a picture. He heaves out a sigh, and then places it to a pocket, as he grabs his cloak and wraps it about his silks and the fancy craft armor.

Rhar and Gurr drink all the time. Water is important. The river makes that easy, and it’s near the place where lots of people talk about helping lots of other people. It’s what packs do: they help everyone in the pack.

Rhar and Gurr walk back from the river to the place of pack helping talking. The rocky ground is good for ball bouncing, so the colorful chewed ball bounces along. Sometimes Gurr chases and grabs it in his mouth, sometimes Rhar does. They share. That's what packs do.

Duncan comes upon Rhar and Gurr as the young Khazad leads his young Khazad Digger for a good watering as well. Duncan used to just give the Digger ale, figuring if it was goid enough for the rider it was good enough for the mount. But after a few too many missed contracts from not being able to wake the Digger up in time, he sadly went back to water. Spotting Rhar he nods casually. "Good to see you again, lad. And your companion there too." Duncan eyes the nimble and energetic Gurr then turns a pointed look at his Digger, which is blissfully ignored.

Altar speaks without moving anything more than his mouth. One moment a picture of still silence, the next still mostly still but less silent. "Who's picture is that in the locket?" he seems to be addressing Lorien, though he has not yet moved his head to face Lorien directly. He's mostly facing the correct direction and has been for a while, but the subtle difference is readily apparent to anyone accustomed to humanoid interaction.

Lorien blinks at the question, and then folds his fingers about at the pocket which holds that locket, "A friend, someone that's quite a bit dear to me," he says, and then gives a soft nod towards Altar, "I'm Lorien," he intones by way of an introduction. If the others have come about, he gives them a wave, "I've been studying up on the Dread Wolf, we fought one of his servants recently."

Rhar stands up from grabbing the ball they're playing with, looks over at Duncan, and waves. "Mrmphapha!" She drops the ball into her hand and throws it for Gurr. He was waiting for it and bounds after it. "Hi! Play?"

Altar steps away from the wall and takes a seat on the fortunately sturdy bench next to Lorien. "The Dread Wolf can be quite dangerous, as can his servants. I hope everyone came back in one piece?" his voice has the expected degree of concern in it, but his body does not convey any of the related postures. He's just sitting there. Fortunately he is now looking at Lorien in a more traditional manner for conversation, so that should be less weird.

Lorien slowly adjusts his attention towards Altar, and then nods a bit towards him, "I gave him the shot and told him to give the Wolf our regards," he says, as he heaves a sigh, "He was planning about sacrificing a few children and men, but we managed and save them from the fire he caused in the building," he adds.

Duncan gives Rhar a grin. "Well let's see." He turns halfway so that's partially facing the Digger. "'Nox, fetch!" he calls hopefully, complete with a motion of his hand miming something flying towards the ball. The Digger looks blearily in that direction then turns back to Duncan uncertainly. Duncan only sighs. "Don't think he can even see the ball," the Khazad explains. "He'd hardly even me if stepped away from him."

Altar doesn't move other than to speak. There is no physical indication of understanding or anything else. "That sounds like a good day's work. When you said you fought one of the Dread Wolf's servants, I assumed you meant you destroyed him. But now it seems like perhaps he fled and is still out there somewhere?"

Lorien chuckles a bit, and then pats at the ay he holds on the back of his leather belt. Then he nods a bit, "Took him out with a nice shot of frost, so many will be safe from his machinations, at least for a while," he says, and then smiles a bit, "Of course, was a group effort, but as I actually serve Eluna, it did feel a bit... Rewarding."

Mogrinaar enters the area and takes a look around. Not many familiar faces here today, but the rumors of work were enough. Need to put food on the table...or rather in his belly right? The orc in full plate sizes up the others and waits patiently.

"Bad eyes. Good nose?" Rhar thinks so. And she has an answer for it! She digs around in her furs and pulls out another well-chewed ball. Then she digs around again and eventually pulls out some slightly smashed berries. Bright and sweet and.. she sniffs ... strong. Rhar mashes them the rest of the way, all over the ball. She waves it around for the digger and walks closer. "Come! Get ball! Like ball! Smell good!"

Altar nods once, perhaps his first humanish reaction thus far. "That is good to hear, I wouldn't want there to be too many of the Dread Wolf's followers out there. I'm sure it was satisfying for you as the destruction of undead is for me."

Lorien nods at Altar, "Indeed, it's wonderful to bring the world a little more peace and good, though it is a difficult task, each of us play a role with it, what was your name again?" he asks conversationally, as they wait.

Duncan reddens slightly. "No, his nose isn't that much better," he admits. He hesitates, then finally adds, "I do most of the hunting for the two of us." He raps a knuckle on the top of the Digger's armor and then says affectionately, "He's full if heart though."

From the south street that leads up to the Adventurer's guild comes a very squeaky wagon. It's drawn by a single rather mangy looking horse and is sort of being driven by what looks to be a human in gaudy colored clothing. He looks hung over as he's leaning in the driver's seat only loosely hanging onto the reins. As the wagon comes closer you can hear the sounds of snoring and the occasionally groan. The wagon slowly comes to a stop and the human's eyes are bloodshot as he looks around, "You guys the guards we hired from the Adventurer's guild. I'm Rodrick and in the back are my three companions, Raven, Thomas, and Wanderer. We are entertainers traveling from Alexandria to our next engagement and require some protection along the way."

There is the distinct clank of bottles and a mumbling of "Are we there yet..." Before there is a snort and the snoring continues on.

Lorien stands up, and when he actually hears about those that have come, he gives Altar a nod, and seems curious, as he makes his way towards the wagon that seems to have arrived about the Adventurer's Guild.

Altar stands up as well, though he's slower at it. He picks his way though the room, careful not to step on any of the patrons passed out on the floor.

Mogrinaar turns to face the wagon and nods his head. "Yeah. I am here for the job. When do you want to head out?" as he approaches he notices the bloodshot eyes. "Hey...you in any shape to be driving that wagon?"

Rhar was going to walk the ball up to the digger, but then there's squeaking and wagons and guards and bleary eyes. "Hi!" She bounds over to the wagon and people on it. She waves. Gurr bounds up, chewing on the ball he caught.

Duncan turns to look at the wagon, then grins knowingly at the sounds he hears, which he immediately associates with drinking. "Protect you from what, a hangover?" He puts on a more serious expression and then nods. "You're right, I'm to guard you while you're on the road."

Rodrick blinks at Mogrinaar and he rubs his eyes, "Right now we have to be in the next town before nightfall that's why we are starting early. I'm fine, besides Cammy knows the way." The human winces a little bit and shhhhhs Rhar, "It's too early to be that cheerful." Rodrick nods to Duncan, "Only if you can go back to last night."

From the Adventurer Guild itself comes one of the officials who looks around, "Ah good you've arrived. Master Rodrick and his companions have hired 6 adventurers to protect them on the road. You must protect them and not harm them in any way. Is that understood?" The official asks before he does a quick count. "So I see three here where are the other three?"

Altar finally exits the guild hall, having narrowly avoided squishing more than one drunken patron over the course of his journey across the common room. "I am Altar. I believe your list bears my name."

Lorien glances about with curiosity, "Me too," he says, and gives a polite nod towards the others.

Mogrinaar garumphs, "Mogrinaar."

Lorien says, "Lorien."

The official does a quick headcount and looks to Rodrick, "Well 5 be all right or shall we acquire a 6th?"

Rodrick yawns and then leans over to spit, "Yah, 5 will be fine so long as we get going."

The official nods as he heads back inside, "Good luck."

Rodrick looks to the adventurers, "Well let's get going." He lightly flicks the reigns and the wagon starts to slowly plod out of the city.

Mogrinaar nods his head. "I am enough for two men easy....lets move along." he looks at the others. "No slacking allowed." he booms then grins widely, perhaps it was his attempt at humor, or was he serious?

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can Lorien tell if these guys are in best condition to actually be travelling?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll a heal check"

GAME: Lorien rolls heal: (4)+0: 4

<OOC> Cesran says, "You aren't sure"

Duncan chuckles but there's a slightly forced quality to it. Out of politeness maybe rather than genuine good nature. He begins walking after the wagon, but soon the Digger catches up and nudges him gently. Duncan starts to rub the stonebeast's head, then finally starts and remembers something. Climbing onto the mounts backbthe pair draw alongside the wagon. "So," he calls. "You expecting trouble?"

Altar walks alongside the wagon on foot. So long as it does not go faster than he is able, he will be able to walk all day. "Judging from the size of your armor, I do not doubt you could do the work of two, Mogrinaar. I am sure we will be fine." he does not address the slacking off comment, perhaps he assumed it was not addressed at him.

Rhar sniffs at the wagon of people and wrinkles her nose. "You smell wrong. Rhar ready. Gurr ready." They're going somewhere. Hopefully somewhere that smells better. "Rhar go! Gurr go!" With that, she bounds up onto Gurr's back. He still gets to keep the ball, so Gurr is happy.

Lorien eyes up the group, and then nods a bit. He gives the official a polite thumbs up. He notices something though, when he glances a bit towards the wagon itself. He can hardly even tell if they are in best condition, what he does know. Is there's something that they are hardly being told.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Ready to move on?"

<OOC> Duncan is!

<OOC> Lorien says, "Yup."

<OOC> Altar says, "Let'er rip"

Rodrick winces a little bit at the booming and then the loudness from Rhar. He reaches to take out a small flask and he takes a sip from whatever is inside.

The wagon slowly, but surely makes its way out of the city and down the roads that would head into the forest. The wagon goes slow enough so that those on foot can easily keep pace. There is nothing, but the snoring and snorting and occasional clacking of glass empties from the back of the wagon. The path that you are on takes you deeper and deeper into the forest. If anyone questions Rodrick about it, his stock reply is that it's a shortcut and to stop bothering him.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Everyone roll perception"

GAME: Lorien rolls perception: (14)+0: 14

GAME: Altar rolls perception: (16)+3: 19

GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (8)+11: 19

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls perception: (6)+1: 7

<OOC> Cesran says, "Duncan?"

GAME: Duncan rolls perception: (18)+7: 25

<OOC> Duncan says, "Sorry, kids woke up"

You paged (Lorien, Altar, Rhar, Duncan) with 'As you travel you suddenly see about 7-10 feet up off the ground that some of the trees have gouge marks in them, that the bark has been stripped away, broken limbs.'

You paged Mogrinaar with 'You see trees and moss, and oh a big rock off to the side of the rather overgrown road.'

Altar pages: is that gouge marks only at that specific height, or is it up to that height, or that height and above?

Mogrinaar pages: I like rocks :)

You paged Altar with 'the gouges are only between 7-10 feet off the ground.'

Duncan's eyes turn up slightly as the group passes trees. He eases his pack off of his back and reaches inside, then withdraws a wooden shaft. Only he keeps pulling, until a full 5 foot of longbow has been produced. "Magic," he whispers at anyone who might have been watching, with a smug grin. A half quiver if arrows comes out next, before he resettles his pack on his back. Then he murmurs something in Khazdul to the Digger, and it draws ahead if the wagon in a leading position.

Lorien watches Duncan, and simply gives a nod, as he watches the trees that they pass about. The youth takes a moment, and then shifts a bit to flank at the front of the wagon, not far off from the aforementioned Khazad. He reaches to his belt, and then tugs his Ray free, as he glances about.

<OOC> Lorien says, "There a way we can have an idea where our path is taking us possibly?"

"Big paws!" Rhar doesn't need magic to explain the marks on the trees. The gouges and stripped bark and broken branches that are three or four Rhars high on th trees.

<OOC> Cesran says, "if you have it roll a knowledge/geography"

<OOC> Lorien says, "There's a knowledge/geography?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "There is"

<OOC> Lorien says, "All I got's cartography."

From afar, Zippo waves. Sorry I'm late. Still have room?

<OOC> Lorien :(

<Meet> You offer to meet Zippo.

You paged Lorien with 'Like craft/cartography?'

Lorien pages: Yes.

Zippo has arrived.

<Meet> Zippo joins you.

Altar just keeps plodding along. He is as alert as he is going to get and always as ready as he is going to get. "I agree, something big is out there, I figure we'll know it when we see it."

Mogrinaar looks around and pulls the falchion from his hip. "Magic you say?" Eyes narrow and he begins to sniff at the air.

You paged Lorien with 'If you were making a map yes, but really it's something knowledge/geography woudl cover'

Lorien pages: Well, for posterity, can he map the way they're moving for reference?

Lorien pages: In case it needs be used again?

You paged Lorien with 'Sure.'

Lorien pages: Roll for it?

You paged Lorien with 'Are you on foot or mount? Cause it'd be hard to draw and walk at the same time'

Lorien pages: Foot.

You paged Lorien with 'I'll give you a chance at the rest points.'

<OOC> Cesran says, "Can someone please fill Zippo in on what's happened so far?"

<OOC> Zippo says, "Thank you."

Lorien keeps moving on forward. He does pat his pocket, and then makes quite sure he has a piece of parchment. It seems he's a bit worried about the way they keep moving through the forest like this, with that leader being a bit dodgy. So he contents with waiting for a rest area, so that he can scribe on a parchment and map. He holds up his Ray, "I do not think he meant magic around here, I think he meant his bow."

You paged Zippo with 'If you are ready to pose please go ahead.'

You paged Zippo with 'And if you want to roll me a perception check when you get a moment'

Rhar and Gurr sniff at the air to see if they smell anything big. Rhar also makes sure she has her sticks ready. Her teeth aren't big and sharp like Gurr's and she doesn't have good claws.. That means sticks. A little round one for hitting and a big flat round one for hitting and not getting hit. "Where go?"

GAME: Zippo rolls perception: (9)+10: 19

You paged Zippo with 'As you travel you suddenly see about 7-10 feet up off the ground that some of the trees have gouge marks in them, that the bark has been stripped away, broken limbs.'

Zippo is here! He has been here all along. Mostly ranting about 'science!' He pauses briefly and points up at a tree they're passing. "Something's been ripping the bark off these things. Curious."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay hold your poses while I emit"

After walking for another hour or so the wagon comes to the crest of a small hill and there on the other side eating what looks to be half a rotting bear corpse is the biggest boar you'd have ever seen. It's about as big as a horse with huge tusks and blood covering it, from the bear. It snorts and stomps and generally smells horrible. It's about 50' away from those at the front of the party.

Rodrick whoas and pulls on the reins to stop the horse. The horse whinnies and skids a bit, but stops before the wagon can go over.

The dire boar hears the horse though and it looks up from it's meal. It stomps and snorts as it's found a better one.

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls initiative: (13)+initiative: 13

GAME: Rhar rolls initiative: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 17

GAME: Lorien rolls initiative: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 16

GAME: Altar rolls initiative: Roll: 9 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 10

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 19

GAME: You roll initiative for Dire Boar: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 21

GAME: You damaged Rhar for -35 points. 35 remaining.

GAME: Zippo rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 22

GAME: Duncan rolls initiative: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 6

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 22.

It is now Zippo's turn! Dire Boar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Zippo ended.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Zippo you are up."

<OOC> Zippo says, "Death ray on the boar."

GAME: Zippo rolls ranged+3: (14)+8+3: 25

<OOC> Altar says, "Zippo appears to be damaged from his last PrP, and perhaps should be filled up before we get too deap in the math?"

<OOC> Zippo says, "Good catch, Altar."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I got him"

GAME: You damaged Zippo for -39 points. 39 remaining.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit!"

GAME: Zippo rolls 1d6+6: (2)+6: 8

<OOC> Zippo says, "Wait, sorry."

GAME: Zippo rolls 1d6: (2): 2

<OOC> Zippo says, "Add those. So, 10 total."

<OOC> Zippo says, "And he has to make a DC 18 fort save or be staggered one round."

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+7: (10)+7: 17

<OOC> Cesran says, "He is staggered"

"SCIENCE!" Zippo shouts, pointing and firing a ray of freezing white light into the boar. That looks painful.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Pose it"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 21.

It is now Dire Boar's turn! Mogrinaar is next!

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "charge, power attack the boar!"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay, hold on it's the boar's turn"

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "oh sorry"

The boar did not like being hit with that icy blast and it starts to try to run up to charge the closest thing that it can see which is Duncan. It moves stiffly though as it can just make it up to Duncan this turn and not actually hurt him.

From the back of the wagon a metal head pops up, "Whoa who ordered the side of bacon with their breakfast?" Another metal head pops up next, "Holy smokes, I haven't seen that much pig since Rodrick's last date." And finally a third metal head pops up, "Will you two shut up...I thought pork was only supposed to give you a heart attack not really attack you."

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 19.

It is now Mogrinaar's turn! Rhar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Mogrinaar ended.

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "ok I would like to charge power attack the boar"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Go for it"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls melee + 1 mw + 2 charge + 1 wf: (14)+9+1 mw+2 charge+1 wf: 27

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls 2d4 +6 PA +7 +1 MW +2 wpnspec: (6)+6 PA+7+1 MW+2 wpnspec: 22

You paged Mogrinaar with 'You hurt it pose it up.'

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 17.

It is now Rhar's turn! Lorien is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Rhar ended.

<OOC> Rhar says, "Can Gurr get around the boar and the people hitting it? To flank?"

Mogrinaar watches as the huge beast moves forward to attack his companion. This will not do. The orc starts to move forward, dragging his tip in the soil, ever so gently. He storms forward, armor glistening until he reaches his target and slices upwards with a furious slice. Blood spews out of the wound but the creature is one of legendary toughness. Of this he is familiar. "Quickly overwhelm it before it has the time to regroup."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes he can, but it will take his full move because off the road is difficult terrain."

<OOC> Rhar says, "Ok! Gurr will do that. Rhar will Tacticianize and give everybody Paired Opportunist."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay. Anything else?"

<OOC> Rhar says, "That's all I can do."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay."

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 16.

It is now Lorien's turn! Altar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Lorien ended.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Lorien you are up"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can I take a swift to activate Titan Armor for +4 Dex, and also shoot?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes"

<OOC> Lorien says, "I'll do that."

"Go for belly! Go for throat! Go for berries!" Rhar lets the pack know the best spots to go for. Gurr bounds forward, and around. Off the road and through the brush to come up on the boar from behind.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Roll up attack?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yep"

<OOC> Lorien says, "within 30 ft?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes"

GAME: Lorien rolls ranged + PBS + 2: aliased to ranged + 1 + 2: (16)+4+1+2: 23

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Lorien rolls 2d6 + 4 + 1: (12)+4+1: 17

You paged Lorien with 'That looked like it should have dropped it, but somehow it's still on its feet.'

<OOC> Lorien says, "Frost. Stagger, fort save 15, I believe."

From afar, Lorien nods thoughtfully.

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+7: (16)+7: 23

<OOC> Cesran says, "Saved"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 10.

It is now Altar's turn! Duncan is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Altar ended.

<OOC> Altar says, "I would like to charge into a flanking position and hit it with my sword."

Lorien holds up his Ray, and then activates his armor with his hand which slides along it to focus his auro. With that, he takes sight, and then he takes up the weapon, charging it. A blue ball of frost light slams clean into it. The shot is pretty clean and on center. Then he seems a bit thoughtful, then his features change, "GUYS! Something's wrong, this thing shouldn't be standing still," he exclaims.

<OOC> Altar says, "Assuming its large or larger, there should be quite a few flanking spots open."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Mor and Duncan are right up front and only Rhar has moved around to attack it, so you can charge, but not flank cause you'd be on one of the corners"

<OOC> Altar says, "I see, I guess I thought Mor was coming at it from the side. That's fine"

GAME: Altar rolls 1d20+8: (9)+8: 17

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit!"

GAME: Altar rolls 1d8+6: (7)+6: 13

<OOC> Cesran says, "And you kill it."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Pose killing it"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 6.

It is now Duncan's turn! Zippo is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Duncan ended.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Cesran has cleared initiatives.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Free Rp after Altar's pose"

Altar charges into the fray, moving much faster than his usual plodding pace. His stance is not fluid, but it is efficient. He gets his sword buried into the Boar's eye socket and it drops to the ground where it stood.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can Lorien check the corpse?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Which one?"

<OOC> Lorien says, "The one he was shooting at."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure what are you looking for?"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Signs of abnormalities."

<OOC> Cesran says, "roll perception"

GAME: Lorien rolls perception: (13)+0: 13

You paged Lorien with 'From what you've heard of this is a dire boar. Nothing beyond what you would find in the corpse of a normal boar, just bigger.'

Lorien pages: Kk

You paged Lorien with 'It has a defensive ability called Ferocity, so it acts sorta like the diehard feat.'

Duncan's fingers fumble for his bowstring as the boar approaches. It closes the distance before he can get a shot off though, and instead he leaves bow and arrow held in one hand while the other reaches for the heavy dagger he wears at his belt. His companions make quick work of the animal though, and so Duncan relaxes slightly. "My thanks," he nods at those who closed in to cut down the beast. "It took me by surprise."

Lorien lowers with that Ray, and then nods a bit towards the others. He approaches, and checks at that corpse, "Seems normal, I guess," he says, and then rubs at his chin, "Stood more than it should, still a curious thing we'd come about it," he adds. Anyways he joins the group, "I do think we should be told why we're taking this route though," he notes to the wagon.

"Another triumph of science over crude, brutish nature." Zippo declares with a proud grin.

Altar removes his sword from the boar's eye socket. "We should remove the boar's head to prevent it from coming back as a zombie. I will do it unless one of you would prefer to do it in a specific way."

Rhar sniffs at the bear body. "Smell like bear. Maybe hungry. Want eat horse." Gurr chuffs and drools. Rhar ruffles his fur. "Yes. Gurr want eat horse too. This path to where go?" She points down the road in a sort of answer for Lorien.

From the back of the wagon there are some cheers, "All right some free pork." The trio of brightly colored war golems get down from the wagon. One goes over to give the beast a kick, "Man enough ribs here to clog a giant's heart."

Rodrick struggles to get down from the wagon. "It's a short cut to the next town it's a bit dangerous, but that's why we paid for you guys."

Already the war golems are getting what looks to be breakfast ready right on the road.

You paged Lorien with 'If you want to do some cartography while the war golems eat breakfast you can.'

Lorien pages: Roll it up?

Duncan gives Lorien a quizzical look. "You think they're hiding something...?" He muses, then snorts. "Well, they wouldn't be the first. In the end their gold is what matters to me, not their intentions." He slides off of his Digger and moves over to stand by Altar. "I'll give you a hand," he offers.

You paged Lorien with 'Sure'

GAME: Lorien rolls craft/cartography: (13)+8: 21

Mogrinaar nods his head. "Yes free pork for everyone." he wipes the blood from his sword and takes a look around. "If you need help let me know. We skinned pigs like this back in my clan all the time.."

Lorien straps up his Ray about to his belt, and then gives a nod towards Rodrick, and then the others. He then takes a parchment and quill, "Well, I hope whatever it is you travel for is important," he intones, and then begins and map the place, the route they took generally, as they eat. The youth seems like he makes things a bit more difficult than it should be.

<OOC> Duncan says, "Wait the War Golems are getting ready to eat the boar? :)"

Altar starts hacking off the boar's head. His sword isn't quite as large as Mogrinaar's, but it is more than large enough to do the job eventually.

<OOC> Rhar says, "Double oops. Boar not bear."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes they are eating/drinking war golems."

After a half an hour rest stop for breakfast with the war golems cracking all sorts of jokes, some funny, some not the trio will introduce themselves. There is Raven, who is not black and has more of a goldish color to him and the slightest of devilish looking metal horns from the top of his head, Thomas who is short and very slender in a silverish color, and Wanderer who has a rather long neck and is purplish. They never seem to stop joking often at the expense of those around them. Rodrick is able to herd them back onto the wagon so they can get started again. As the wagon moves through the forest the observation from the war golems and occasionally Rodrick who is feeling less hung over continue.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Ready to move on?"

<OOC> Zippo says, "Ready."

<OOC> Altar says, "Something's come up, I only have about 15 minutes until I have to go."

<OOC> Cesran nods.

<OOC> Altar says, "Feel free to move on"

Rhar and Gurr don't mind that the other people talk and laugh. Talking and laughing are good. Eating is even better! All four of Gurr's legs must be hollow, and Rhar stuffs any extras into her furs. To save for later.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Free to move."

Lorien follows when they move.

<OOC> Altar says, "If you like you can use me as a healbot, or drop a bull's strength on Mog if there's another combat, or I can just bow out."

You paged Altar with 'What's your channel strength?'

Altar pages: 2d6 I'm a 3rd level cleric with the healing domain, so I have a lot of healing

You paged Altar with 'Okay good to know.'

Altar pages: both domain spells are cures currently, the rest of the slots are full and can also be healing

Long distance to Altar: Cesran nods, "All right, Sorry you couldn't stay for the whole thing that's why I wanted to get an earlier start.

Duncan takes up his place next to the wagon again, trading the bow for his axe. Occasionally he tap-taps the metal tip at the end of the handle against the armor on the Digger's back, making a sound not unlike a hammer on an anvil. It makes the Digger seem to relax.

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "I am gtg"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Everyone roll perception"

GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (13)+11: 24

GAME: Zippo rolls perception: (6)+10: 16

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls perception: (13)+1: 14

GAME: Altar rolls perception: (20)+3: 23

Altar pages: I can log in from my phone, and may be able to. If I do, just don't be surprised if my poses shorten up a bit :)

You paged Altar with 'NP'

GAME: Duncan rolls perception: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Lorien rolls perception: (6)+0: 6

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay everyone, but Lorien notices that the birds have stopped and the forest is silent. The forest has become a lot more messy broken branches strewn across the path, it seems out of place even for the forest. It's after lunch time so it's been 4-5 hours since the boar attack."

Deeper and deeper into the forest the party goes. Rodrick continues to follow the path that winds its way back and forth through the woods. The sun is climbing higher in the sky and the bards in the wagon continue to joke and seem to have a comment about everything. Rodrick steers the wagon to the right and it heads down into an embankment. The group doesn't seem to notice that the forest has gotten quieter, but it is kind of hard to hear over how much noise they are making.

Mogrinaar looks around. "That’s odd. The birds are quiet." he places a hand on his weapon, fingers lightly taping them. The jokes have gotten on his orc'n nerves but since he is getting paid he has chosen to deal instead of silence them. He sniffs at the air and looks around and then at the branches. "Hrm..?"

Altar just walks alongside the wagon. He is unlikely to react, until there's something to react to.

Lorien walks along and keeps up with the group, as he stretches a bit and pats at his belt. It seems kinda like he took a bit focus on the map he makes.

Duncan pulls ahead of the wagon once again, eyes scanning the forest and the path ahead. "You're right," he agrees. "Could be nothing, or it could be another boar. Or something worse," he adds darkly.

"So. This seems creepier than most places." Zippo observes as he walks along, frowning slightly.

You paged (Rhar, Altar, Duncan) with 'After another 10 minutes of walking you two can see what looks to be a huge messy mound of branches and leaves and rocks and tree limbs set back deep into the forest about a 100 feet. It's hard to make out from the distance and that it blends in with the forest.'

You paged (Rhar, Altar, Duncan) with 'Three'

Altar points into the woods. "Anyone else see that pile of rocks and tree limbs? Maybe a creature's den?"

Mogrinaar grins, "Why don't you take a look?"

Altar shrugs and turns toward it, heading into the woods. He's slow enough that anyone could stop him, but apparently sarcasm is not his strong suit.

Lorien shrugs, "The story of an Adventurer's general lifespan," he teases, and then follows with Altar.

"Wait!" Duncan hisses at the metal man. He slides off of the digger and moves to catch up. "We can sneak up on them," he explains. "Just don't step on those twigs...and keep downwind." He raises his hand and glances around briefly, then gestures. "From that side."

<OOC> Duncan wants to use his Stealth Synergy feat!

Altar pages: ok, I have to take off, I'm connected via my phone but I won't be reading much

You paged Altar with 'Okay '

Altar stops as instructed.

Rodrick frowns, "Hey come back here you are supposed to guard the wagon not go off chasing creatures in the woods."

Raven snorts, "That's one war golem who's two bolt short in the brainpan."

Thomas snorts, "Yah let's go into the messy dangerous mound of woods, not stick on the path."

Wanderer ums, "Any more pork?"

The forest comes alive with noise as there is a loud crashing that seems to be coming from all around the party. From both sides of the path there are flashing of white fur as the crashing get closer and closer.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll me some inits"

GAME: Lorien rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 10

GAME: Duncan rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 11

GAME: You roll initiative for Altar: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 17

GAME: You roll initiative for Owlbear A: Roll: 15 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 20

GAME: You roll initiative for Owlbear B: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 13

GAME: Zippo rolls initiative: Roll: 1 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 5

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls initiative: Roll: 5 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 6

GAME: Rhar rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 19

GAME: Altar rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 17

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 20.

It is now Owlbear A's turn! Rhar is next!

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+8: (10)+8: 18

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d6+4: (6)+4: 10

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+14: (12)+14: 26

You paged Duncan with 'Does that beat your CMD?'

GAME: You damaged Duncan for 10 points. 26 remaining.

Duncan pages: Yup my CMD is 21

Out of the forest from in front of the wagon comes a huge Owlbear. There is no mistaking what it is. It's got the head of an owl and the body of a bear. Its red-rimmed eyes rolls around in its head as it turns to attack the party. It goes after Duncan who's in the front. It grabs him with one claw right off of his mount and hugs him tightly to him.

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 19.

It is now Rhar's turn! Altar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Rhar ended.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Rhar you are up"

<OOC> Rhar says, "The other one's on the other side?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You hear a lot of crashing and growls behind you yes."

<OOC> Rhar goes for the other crashing! Since Duncan took on the big boar before, we know he's strong.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay after about 20 feet of movement the Owlbear is right on top of you."

<OOC> Rhar will bonk it with stick and Gurr will bite.

GAME: Rhar rolls melee+1: (5)+8+1: 14

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+6: (18)+6: 24

<OOC> Cesran says, "Miss, hit"

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d6+3: (5)+3: 8

<OOC> Rhar says, "Gurr trip try vs CMD"

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+6: (19)+6: 25

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll it"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You tripped it"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Pose it"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 17.

It is now Altar's turn! Owlbear B is next!

<OOC> Cesran says, "Altar."

GAME: Altar rolls 1d20+6: (15)+6: 21

GAME: Altar rolls 1d8+6: (1)+6: 7

<OOC> Cesran says, "That's a hit, which one are you going after? A or B?"

"Rhar!" See? She's polite and introduces herself when she and Gurr go bounding for the flashing fur in the brush behind them. Gurr's doing most of the bounding, of course. Rhar swings high (for her) and Gurr goes low. Rhar bonks air, but Gurr gets a good mouthful of birdbear leg and worries. It's enough to make the thing stumble and fall down. Go pack!

<OOC> Altar says, "a"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You hurt it. It looks pissed"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 13.

It is now Owlbear B's turn! Duncan is next!

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+8-4: (3)+8+-4: 7

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+8-4: (8)+8+-4: 12

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+8-4: (20)+8+-4: 24

<OOC> Cesran says, "Rolling to confirm"

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+8-4: (11)+8+-4: 15

You paged Rhar with 'What's your wolf's AC?'

Rhar pages: 21

You paged Rhar with 'Nice. so just a hit.'

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d6+4: (4)+4: 8

You paged Rhar with 'Your wolf takes 8 damage'

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 11.

It is now Duncan's turn! Lorien is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Duncan ended.

Rhar pages: Ok.

Altar slashes an owlbear on the nose.

<OOC> Duncan is going to hack at the one that grabbed me with my axe one-handed, and then have the Digger attack it too!

<OOC> Duncan says, "But first.."

GAME: Duncan RAGES!, gaining: +4 Str, +4 Con, +2 Will and -2 AC

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll it up"

GAME: Duncan rolls weapon1-4: (20)+0+-4: 16

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

<OOC> Duncan says, "Ooh are they crit-able?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "They are"

GAME: Duncan rolls weapon1-4: (12)+0+-4: 8

<OOC> Cesran says, "No crit"

<OOC> Duncan says, "Actually it is showing +0 but should be +11"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay that's a crit then"

GAME: Duncan rolls 3d10+30: (18)+30: 48

The downed owlbear reacts with a loud roar hoot, as it tries to claw and rip at the wolf that tripped it. Its beak manages to tears off a hunk of the wolf's flesh.

The bards start a running commentary, "I bet the dwarf's never been hugged like that in his life." Raven says. "Watch out for the kiss." Wanderer yells out. "I sure hope that small furry guard isn't mating with the other own behind us. I heard a loud thump and some screaming behind us." Thomas says.

You paged Duncan with 'You killed it'

You paged Duncan with 'Pose it up'

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 10.

It is now Lorien's turn! Mogrinaar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Lorien ended.

<OOC> Lorien says, "What's the range away about from the Owlbear fighting Rhar?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "about 20 feet, but has soft cover"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Would he still be able and draw to take a shot?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes"

<OOC> Lorien says, "He will do that."

<OOC> Cesran says, "roll it up"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Any mods to it? I ain't used ta soft cover/prone/etc."

<OOC> Cesran says, "For you no"

<OOC> Cesran says, "It gets bonuses to it's AC"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Kk."

GAME: Lorien rolls ranged + PBS: aliased to ranged + 1: (20)+4+1: 25

<OOC> Cesran says, "Possible crit"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Want a roll to confirm?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes"

GAME: Lorien rolls ranged + PBS: aliased to ranged + 1: (16)+4+1: 21

<OOC> Cesran says, "Crit"

Duncan is taken by surprise once again, and before he knows it he's being lifted into the air by a twisted mass of fur and feathers. Duncan somehow manages to retain his grip on his axe. But he doesn't quite maintain his grip on his rage - his eyes widen, showing more red than white, and he lifts his axe and jams it into the Owlbear's open beak. The monster chokes slightly, but Duncan keeps shoving it further in, then twists it savagely, causing a shower of blood until the thing falls over. Duncan pries himself free and then tears free his axe, before finally spinning to look wildly for more enemies.

GAME: Lorien rolls 4d6 + 10: (15)+10: 25

You paged Lorien with 'I think you need an extra 5 damage'

Lorien pages: The rules for a Ray's crit is confusing me.

You paged Lorien with 'If your normal is 2d6+5, then your crit will add on another 2d6+10'

Lorien pages: So that'd make it 30? On the page it looks like it downgraded it.

From afar, Lorien grumps.

Lorien pages: Artificer Ray.

Long distance to Lorien: Cesran hmms, "I see that. I think it's only 2d6+10.

GAME: Lorien rolls 2d6 + 10: (5)+10: 15

You paged Lorien with 'But that doesn't make any sense...hold on'

Lorien pages: You're right.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sorry hold on"

Lorien pages: The rules on the Artificer Page would make crits do /less/ damage.

You paged Lorien with 'That's silly though'

Lorien pages: Right. That's what confused me.

You paged Lorien with 'I think you had the right damage the first time.'

Lorien pages: We will roll with that then?

From afar, Lorien nods.

You paged Lorien with 'We'll go with the first one'

Lorien pages: Kk.

Lorien pages: And it's still a 15 Fort save I believe?

You paged Lorien with 'Still hurt still pissed'

Lorien pages: Kk.

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+10: (20)+10: 30

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 6.

It is now Mogrinaar's turn! Zippo is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Mogrinaar ended.

Lorien swings out his Ray and then hefts it up a bit, as the crashing comes from about. The youth heaves a sigh, "Why can't we ever have a normal adventure?" he asks, and then notices the white fur, and blinks a bit. Then a battle clean breaks out. He swivels on his hip and then takes a shot from the hip to slam clean into the Owlbear which Rhar has fought with, blue frost light.

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "can I flank one of these bad boys"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Owlbear A is dead"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Owlbear B is about 20 feet away and prone"

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "Ahhh ok"

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "move power attack!"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll it up"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls melee + 1 MW + 2 charge + 1 wf: (9)+9+1 MW+2 charge+1 wf: 22

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls 2d4 +6 PA +7 +1 MW +2 wpnspec: (6)+6 PA+7+1 MW+2 wpnspec: 22

<OOC> Cesran says, "Dead"

Mogrinaar moves forward with a determined look on his face. He takes advantage of the well placed shot, which as the creature wriggles in pain, he arcs across and slices it across the neck, effectively chopping its head off. "Done." he looks around carefully. "Anything else? Odd so many creatures just deciding to jump this caravan."

You paged Lorien with 'Okay for a crit you should have rolled 2d6+10 for normal damage, then 1d6 for bonus damage from level'

Lorien pages: Thanks.

"SCIENCE WILL SAVE THE... oh. It's dead already." Zippo lowers his ray, frowning with disappointment. "Well... good. I suppose."

With both owlbears down the bards continue their comments, "Dibs on the feathers I've always wanted an owlbear pillow." Raven laughs, "Duncan gave that one a splitting headache." "Rodrick next time you pick a path, try one with harder monsters on it, these two were a cake walk." Thomas quips. Rodrick rolls his eyes, "Lucky for us these adventurers are on the ball." With that the wagon starts to move on, "Come on we've got to get going we are going to be late."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Everyone roll perception"

Duncan falls to his knees, gasping for air. A few moments later he struggles back to his feet, legs wobbling a little. The Digger comes by and Duncan clambers on, shaking his axe to one side to try and get the worst of the blood and gore off of it. He examines it once and then lowers it, satisfied. "Could be something about the -path-," he says, with a scowl.

GAME: Duncan rolls perception: (19)+7: 26

<OOC> Lorien says, "By thy by, can Lorien have some of the feathers?"

GAME: Lorien rolls perception: (2)+0: 2

Lorien makes his way along, and then places his Ray about at his belt.

GAME: Altar rolls perception: (3)+3: 6

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Dem are sexy rolls."

GAME: Zippo rolls perception: (5)+10: 15

GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (13)+11: 24

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls perception: (7)+1: 8

The wagon moves on and for the next couple of hours it's nothing but forest. Even the bards gets bored as there is nothing really to comment about and Rodrick growled at them to stop commenting on how bored they are. The forest starts to turn a swampy for a bit. Rodrick tells the others that they are just a few hours away from the next town. The sun is steadily creeping down towards the horizon, but there is still enough light to see. All of a sudden you hear a soft female voice crying, "Help...help...please won't someone help me."

"Maybe other path longer, safer," Rhar knows a little about paths. She and Gurr put their paws to alot of them. And make their own. Rhar's and Gurr's ears perk up at the voice. "Need help!" Gurr speeds up and bounds for the crying. Because helping is what pack members do.

Mogrinaar says, "Last time some random person asked for help it was an ambush..."

Lorien heaves up a sigh, and then he takes off running towards the way Rhar moves about, "Really?" he asks. What a fun adventure. It's quite a bit of fighting and following.

Duncan's head swivels towards the sound, then he casts a quick look at the forest around them. "Good point," he nods to Mogrinaar. "I'll stay here with the wagon." He puts away his axe and then pulls out his bow once more, before turning his mount. It takes him at a trot over to the wagon. "You be careful, lads!" he calls after Lorien and Rhar.

"SCIENCE will save you!" Zippo shouts to the alarmed voice, waddling forward with death ray at the ready.

The three that rush ahead will see in the middle of a swampy marsh like field there is a small island about 30' from the road. There is a large wooden stake and on it is a beautiful young orc maiden. She is so beautiful even those of that are non-orcs would recognize how beautiful she is. She struggles a bit, "Oh please help me..." She cries out.

The wagon continues to roll along and Wanderer snickers at Mogrinaar, "Afraid to get your armor a little wet in the swamp saving maidens?"

Mogrinaar looks at Wanderer and raises an eyebrow. "Mogrinaar is not afraid of anything ...save stupidity." he does hear the voice again and looks all around. "What you guys see over there?" he shouts moving a little in their direction but maintaining visual on the caravan.

<OOC> Lorien says, "So it's 30' of swamp to get by?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "To get to the maiden yes."

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can Lorien try and get across directly?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure, but it is difficult terrain you'll move at half speed"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Kk."

<OOC> Lorien says, "He's got 30 speed, so that'd make it 15, yes?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yep"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Kk, want me to pose it?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure"

Lorien doesn't bother with asking the others about the best option. He calls back, "Maiden, saving, gentleman, ya know, cliche'!" he exclaims if they can even manage and note what he says. Then he's slipping about through the swamp waters and muck. It seems like it slows him, wading on, silks getting slimy.

Rhar has no problem with jumping into the muck. Gurr, though. He stops for a second and sniffs at it. "Go! Swim! Help pack!" With some nudging, Gurr finally jumps in and starts slogging through the muck. "We save you!" Rhar yells that to the orc girl. Since Gurr is getting swampwater splashed in his muzzle. That makes t hard for him to talk.

The Maiden cries out, "Oh thank you but be careful there are some sort of scaly beasts in the water. I've seen scales and coils." She says as she sees Lorien and Rhar, "Please hurry. He'll be back any at sunset."

The wagon rolls up to where the swamp meets the road and the Maiden can easily be seen. Raven whistles loudly, "Oh wow, even for an orc she's a knock out. Too bad whoever tied her up didn't rip her dress a little bit right fellas.

"We shall be happy to assist! For only a reasonably generous donation to the cause of SCIENCE." Zippo assures the 'maiden'.

<OOC> Lorien says, "It's really good that Lorien is likely a bit too far away to hear Raven."

Duncan puts an arrow to his bow and then tries to sit a little straighter, the better to see what's going on in the swamp. Or maybe to get a peek at the girl.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Or ya, apologies!"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Oh no Lorien could hear him"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Oooooh."

Wanderer yawns a little bit, "Pft if she was any kind of orc she'd have gotten out by now."

Lorien keeps tracking through, and then lifting his booted feet through the swamp much. Wading along. But he does manage and hear what Raven says from afar. Towards the maiden, "Don't worry, if we have to, we will fight through an army to save you!" Then the aforementioned comment about the dress, "Remind me, when we're back, to take you, tie you up to a post, make /you/ wear a dress, and then we will see if you still wish to be so crass!" he exclaims. White Knight syndrome. Only with actual saving of women. Sweet.

Mogrinaar looks out at the maiden and grins widely. "Yeah we will have you outta there soon. What kinda scaley things you see in there anyway?" he tries to ignore Wanderers antics.

The Maiden smiles at Lorien, "Oh thank you so much." She says as she watches him wade through the muck, "Some kind of big snake I think it has a couple of heads."

Rhar could untie the girl, but there are snakes! "Snake?! Where?!" Maybe she and Gurr don't like snakes. So she leaves the rescuing to Lorien while she and Gurr look and sniff around.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can Lorien reach the gal yet or what're we doing?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes you've moved twice you are on the island"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Okay, he will approach her, and try and free her if possible."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay pose it"

Lorien clambers about, and then climbs onto the island. He calls back towards Rhar, "Yo, if you need anything, call to me!" he exclaims. The youth, satisfied that she can have his back and mindful he'd assist her if needed, approaches the Maiden, and his hand which is free, slips about to the belt and grabs his Goblin Army Knife, moving to free that woman, "Don't worry we will save ya," he says. You know. If she doesn't actually turn and try and maybe eat him. Because that's expected.

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+13: (3)+13: 16

GAME: Cesran rolls 2d4: (3): 3

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll a fort save Lorien"

GAME: Lorien rolls fort: (1)+5: 6

<OOC> Lorien says, "..."

<OOC> Cesran says, "You feel weaker for some reason."

The Maiden is free and she kisses Lorien on the cheek and touches his shoulder, "Oh thank you so much. Please be careful. I fear that evil man that put me out here will come back any moment." She trembles in fear.

You paged Lorien with 'You are three strength points weaker now.'

"What come? Snake? Man?" Rhar is confused. First snakes, now bad men? "No see snake. No see man." She keeps looking though. One day, maybe she'll find a man?

The bards on the wagon are getting impatient, "All right you big hero you saved the maiden let's go going!" Thomas calls out. "I'd rather not get eaten by this giant snake thing that's out there." Rodrick calls out as he's ready to go, but he doesn't want to leave the two guards and maiden out there.

Duncan settles back. Maiden rescued? Check. But now he begins casting looks around. Snakes, evil men, and he's still not sure that the wagon is out of the woods yet. "All right, all right," he mutters over his shoulder at the bards. Still, maybe they have a point. "Come on back," he calls across at the rescuers. "Bring her if she's got nowhere else to go!"

Lorien seems to feel a bit weaker, and then blinks a bit, flushing with that, as the Maiden kisses his cheek. Then he glances about with curiosity, "W-we have ta free ya, and get ya ta land," he says. Though he shifts a bit, "Lady first," he intones, "So, tell me a bit about this man?" he asks, "What's your name?" Beat, "Wait... First a snake, then a man, and yet they would leave ya here." Paranoia speaks, "Oh crap."

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+13: (4)+13: 17

GAME: Cesran rolls 2d4: (2): 2

<OOC> Cesran says, "Lorien another fort save please"

GAME: Lorien rolls fort: (12)+5: 17

<OOC> Cesran says, "You feels weaker for a moment, but are able to shake it off."

Something seems to bother him a bit about this situation. Mogrinaar narrows his eyes and shouts in Oruch, 'WHAT CLAN DO YOU HAIL FROM?'

Lorien pages: He'd know something is up by the feeling, right?

You paged Lorien with 'He'll feel he's getting weaker but he can tell this time something tried to make him weak.'

Lorien calls out towards Rhar, and those still about at the swamp edge with the wagon. He hears what Mogrinaar says. Then he makes a reply. Whether he means it is the Orc lady, or something else, "IT'S A TRAP!" he exclaims.

"PREPARE YOUR SCIENCE!" Zippo shouts, waving his death ray about wildly.

The Maiden keeps her hand on Lorien's shoulder and nods, "Please lead the way. Well I think the snake just lives here, but the evil man is a bard that wants me to marry him. He is keeping me out here until I agree to marry him." She looks to the shore, "He's a worg breeder of the Burning Stone clans. The best worg breeder there is that's why this bard wants to marry me."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll perception"

GAME: Lorien rolls perception: (20)+0: 20

GAME: Zippo rolls perception: (19)+10: 29

GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (5)+11: 16

<OOC> Rhar says, "Nope. Still haven't found a man."

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls Perception: (19)+1: 20

GAME: Duncan rolls perception: (6)+7: 13

You paged (Lorien, Zippo, Mogrinaar) with 'You notice that The maiden has left no trail in the muck while Lorien has been slogging through it.'

<OOC> Cesran says, "keep posing. :D Still free rp"

Zippo strokes his chin and frowns. "... Y'know that 'maiden' doesn't seem to have left much of a trail..."

Lorien walks his way and wades through the muck of the swamp. The youth seems like he's trying to actually make distance from the Maiden, even if intent with saving her still, "Eh!" he exclaims.

Duncan looks back and forth. "Snake, bard, breeders of worgs." Duncan's father always told him Oruchs were trouble, and Duncan's starting to see why.

"Breed worg? Why need another mate?" Rhar doesn't follow. Then again, she isn't completely listening. "No see man. No see snake." Maybe it's a really tiny man? Or a tiny snake?

Mogrinaar roars, "She is a witch or worse....no Orc of true blood would not reply with their clan!" he pulls out a sword and then motions, "And she leaves no trail!"

<OOC> Cesran says, "let's roll some inits. :D"

GAME: You roll initiative for Green Hag: Roll: 19 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 20

GAME: Lorien rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 13

GAME: Zippo rolls initiative: Roll: 12 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 16

GAME: Duncan rolls initiative: Roll: 20 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 23

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls initiative: Roll: 1 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 2

GAME: Rhar rolls initiative: Roll: 1 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 4

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 23.

It is now Duncan's turn! Green Hag is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Duncan ended.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Duncan you are up, the maiden still looks like a maiden"

<OOC> Cesran says, "A super beautiful maiden"

<OOC> Duncan says, "Hmm...can I hold my action until after hers?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure"

Duncan raises his bow, pointing it at the maiden. "Is what they say true?" he calls at her. "Are you some kind of witch? Move away from her, lads!"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 20.

It is now Green Hag's turn! Zippo is next!

GAME: Duncan's initiative total changed to 19.

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+13: (17)+13: 30

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+13: (12)+13: 25

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d4+4: (2)+4: 6

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d4+4: (2)+4: 6

GAME: You damaged Lorien for 12 points. 13 remaining.

<OOC> Lorien winces.

<OOC> Cesran says, "2 fort saves please"

GAME: Lorien rolls fort: (6)+5: 11

GAME: Lorien rolls fort: (17)+5: 22

GAME: Could not find 'Loren' in the initiative list.

GAME: Note -5 Strength added to Lorien.

<OOC> Cesran says, "You are at -5 strength"

The Maiden doesn't waste any time as her hands become claws and she rakes them down Lorien's back doing damage and sapping his strength. "Such noble heroes I'll enjoy having fun with all of you." She changes into an old green crone.

The bards all gasp, "Wow who'd have guess that woman's old enough to be Daeus' mother."

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 19.

It is now Duncan's turn! Zippo is next!

<OOC> Cesran says, "Duncan!"

<OOC> Duncan says, "How far am I from her?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "about 15' of difficult terrian"

<OOC> Duncan says, "Does that mean half speed? And no charging?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yep"

<OOC> Duncan says, "OK, I'm going to use cavalier's challenge on her and then have the digger move over to her and bite, and Duncan will power attack with my axe"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You can't charge."

<OOC> Duncan says, "It can move 30', can it just walk over and attack?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes that's possible"

<OOC> Duncan says, "Actually on second thought can I have the digger try a bull rush on Lorien :)"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay roll it"

GAME: Duncan rolls 1d20+3: (14)+3: 17

<OOC> Cesran says, "You've pushed him 5 feet"

<OOC> Duncan will take it...ok here is my roll against the witch

GAME: Duncan rolls 1d20+8: (3)+8: 11

<OOC> Cesran says, "Miss"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 16.

It is now Zippo's turn! Lorien is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Zippo ended.

<OOC> Zippo says, "Death ray on the hag!"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll it, do you have precise shot?"

Duncan's eyes widen. Even though he had his bow aimed at the woman, he hesitates. Just long enough for it to reveal its true nature and attack her would-be hero. Not trusting his aim with Lorien so close to the target, Duncan instead murmurs at the Digger, again in Khazdul. It struggles to make it through the swamp, Duncan calling at the hag to "Turn and face me!" as they approach. The Digger none-too-gently nudges Lorien away from her, while Duncan swings his axe - but can't manage to connect.

<OOC> Zippo does not.

GAME: Zippo rolls ranged+4-4: (19)+8+4+-4: 27

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Zippo rolls 2d6+6: (11)+6: 17

<OOC> Zippo says, "DC 18 fort save to avoid stagger."

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+6: (10)+6: 16

<OOC> Cesran says, "she is staggered"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 13.

It is now Lorien's turn! Rhar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Lorien ended.

"Yep. Knew something was wrong there." Zippo says with a little frown. "Take this, anti-science fake maiden!" Out comes the freeze ray again, sweeping over the hag with cold white light.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Can Lorien draw and shoot her?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You'd provoke an AOO for shooting ranged within melee"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Wouldn't Precise Shot negate that?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "No it only negates the -4 for shooting into melee"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Ah. I thought he was far enough away. Hmm."

<OOC> Duncan tried to push him away from her

<OOC> Cesran says, "Nah she kept right on top of you and Duncan only pushed you 5 feet away from her,"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Ah."

<OOC> Lorien says, "He will still draw and shoot. He's not gonna leave anyone else with her range."

<OOC> Cesran says, "okay"

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+13: (8)+13: 21

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d4+4: (3)+4: 7

<OOC> Cesran says, "Roll fort please"

GAME: Lorien rolls fort: (8)+5: 13

GAME: You damaged Lorien for 7 points. 6 remaining.

<OOC> Cesran says, "You are down -7 strength"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Roll my attack?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "yep"

GAME: Lorien rolls ranged + PBS: aliased to ranged + 1: (7)+4+1: 12

GAME: Note -7 strength added to Lorien.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Miss"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 4.

It is now Rhar's turn! Mogrinaar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Rhar ended.

<OOC> Lorien says, "Even with Touch? Crap. Oh well."

<OOC> Lorien poses.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Wait"

Lorien pages: For RP reasons, the AoO attack was with claws too?

<OOC> Cesran says, "Touch is a hit"

<OOC> Lorien says, "Ah."

You paged Lorien with 'That's her only weapon is with the claws'

GAME: Lorien rolls 2d6+4+1: (7)+4+1: 12

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+6: (7)+6: 13

<OOC> Cesran says, "She's staggered"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Rhar you are up"

<OOC> Rhar says, "Is there any hagspace free for Rhar and Gurr?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes if you are still on the island she's 15' from you"

Lorien grunts as his back gets ripped open by the claws which slip into his back. He then shifts on his hip to turn about and face the new revealed hag. Then he coughs as the bull rush from Duncan's creature pushes him away. He hacks out a cough, and then slowly he hefts up his Ray from his belt with both hands. Weakly he takes a shot at point blank, and slams it clean into her, staggering her back, but as he does, her claws rip clean into his chest, and he spits up a spray of blood. Panting, he slowly lowers his weapons, "C-can't keep this up," he coughs out.

<OOC> Rhar and Gurr move up to bonk and bite her. Rhar will challenge her, too. +1 to melee attacks on her for everybody while Rhar threatens her.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sure! Roll it"

GAME: Rhar rolls melee+1: (17)+8+1: 26

<OOC> Cesran says, "You are flanking Duncan"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+9: (19)+9: 28

<OOC> Cesran says, "Hit"

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d4+2+1+4: (2)+2+1+4: 9

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d6+3: (2)+3: 5

<OOC> Rhar says, "And Gurr trip."

<OOC> Cesran says, "okay"

GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+9: (3)+9: 12

<OOC> Cesran says, "She stays up"

GAME: Cesran advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 2.

It is now Mogrinaar's turn! Green Hag is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Mogrinaar ended.

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "I would like to move into flank and hit her if possible, power attack?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "You can move to attack, flanking no"

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "ok"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls melee + 1 MW + 1 WF: (18)+9+1 MW+1 WF: 29

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "crit?"

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls melee + 1 MW + 1 WF: (4)+9+1 MW+1 WF: 15

<OOC> Cesran says, "Not a crit"

"No hurt pack!" Rhar yells at the now ugly orc girl. Gurr bounds up to her while Rhar's yelling. Rhar bonks with her stick and Gurr bites with his teeth. She gets the double whammy bonkbite. Teeth in her leg and stick to the arm.

GAME: Mogrinaar rolls 2d4+6+7+2+1: (3)+6+7+2+1: 19

<OOC> Cesran says, "She's dead"

<OOC> Mogrinaar says, "sweet"

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Cesran has cleared initiatives.

Mogrinaar moves forward and growls angrily, "You dare pose as an Orc to do your dirty deeds....die by the Dread Cleaver's hand!" He slices an X across her chest and sends her to the ground with a thud. He kicks her in the head for good measure. "Check her...she might have some goods."

<OOC> Lorien says, "Free-pose?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Yes while I do the wrap up"

Lorien slowly shifts his Ray and slips it to his belt. Then he glowers at Mogrinaar. He moves about with a pattern that seems a bit staggered because of the fact he's dripping blood, some of it comes from his lips, "We aren't like that," he says sternly to him. And then he simply begins and fall against the nearest person.

The Digger moves back and forth in front of the hag's remains, and Duncan lets it, not quite relaxing himself. He glances at the island where the others found her, then at the swamp all around. "You think she could have been telling the truth about being tied up by someone?"

<OOC> Lorien says, "There anyone here that'd be able and heal him up afterwards?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Altar's got it."

<OOC> Zippo can.

<OOC> Zippo says, "Or Altar."

<OOC> Lorien says, "Kk. Wanting to be topped off for next event/PrP"

Mogrinaar shrugs as he goes to looking and seeing if she has anything of value on her. "It could have been a ruse to draw us in....or she could have been tied up for being a witch. Either way her dishonorable corpse is on the ground...."

Good. The ugly green lady listened. No more hurting pack. Rhar is pleased. All it takes is a strong stick and a strong pack. "Rhar not like that." She points at the dead green lady. "Rhar not ugly. Not green."

After the party gets back to the wagon the bards will of course make comments on how dirty and muddy you are all. Maybe it's just their way of showing how grateful they are. The rest of the trip is quiet until they actually get out of the forest and get to the next town. It's just as the sun sets and the bards pile of the wagon. You are all offered to stay and watch the show, which is much of what you heard on the trip in, them making sarcastic remarks about things they have seen. Even today's incident with the show. The show goes okay, some laugh some don't, but you get a free meal from the bards and they'll pay for a room at the in for all of you before you have to head back to the city.