Wardens of Heroes Gate

Onward North with the Wwaldyr Siblings

[RECAP] You are traveling to the Treyvigg Monastery for some Summertide Wine. Along the way you met the halfling Bragos twins, Nim and Norli, along with Tronk, when there were held up by a group of bandits calling themselves Cyrics Cudgel. After defeating them on the road, they assaulted the entire camp at Drovers Field in Mosstone as vengeance. They were yet again defeated and the leader of their group destroyed by Tronks hammer. You hired two guards from Titans Fist Protection Company who are to meet you at the Drovers Field gate, along some with extra provisioning.

] The dark night has just begun to fade when you cross the field to the gate into town. Standing there are 3 half-elves, two female and one very young male.

Valea] “Bright Skies. Might these be from Titans Fist?”

] Arathen “Bright Skies to you. Yes, we are guard from Titans Fist. Are you the ones heading for The Small Teeth?”

Yisi] “Yes we are, but we hired only two guards.”

] Arathen “Ah yes. Special deal today, three for the price of two. This is actually our younger brother, Tovalthir. He will be sitting in and observing… mostly. We are training him for his sanctioning with Titans Fist. I am Arathen Dwaldyr and this is my sister Araola.”

Valea] I hold my clawed mitt to my breast and bow slightly “Valea is pleased to share the days with you. Gold-face here is called Yisi. ”

Yisi] “We could use the extra help I think… Given the events of last night the Trade Way may be molten with angry bandits today.”

Valea] “This one thinks bandits stay home, lick wounds today no?”

Yisi] “May ‘Tel Aes’tar so aim.”

] Araola “We were at Oak Fathers when we heard the field was being attacked. By the time we got here, the bandits had been run-off. We carried water for the fires and saw the death on the ground. We did not hear the truth of the terror however. It sounds like you may know why they attacked?”

Yisi] “Vengeance. At least their leader said so just before we saw her brains fly from her head. They were part of some cult… Cyrics Cudgel. All of them were Half-Orcs as well, which I cannot explain. We first encountered them on the Trade Way to the south. They attacked us with very few numbers and defeating them was easy. But one ran and obviously shared news of our victory over the fools, so they attacked Drovers Field just to avenge three nits. Cult-heads… I hope to never met with another…”

] A young human arrives with a cart carrying your provisions. You point him to your wagon and he goes to load it with your goods.

] Araola “We have our mounts waiting for us at the north stables. If you are all set to go, we shall meet you at your wagon shortly.”

Valea] “Valea is ready.”

Yisi] “Nim Bragos looks to be ready and waiting on us to get started. We will join their caravan as far north as Tethir Road. We shall head east to Treyvigg Monastery and they will continue on their way to Baldurs Gate.”

] Arathen “That will work for us. Many shall stand where few would fall.”

] The 5 of you join the caravan as it pulls out of Drovers Field and follows a pathway which circles back to the Trade Way. The Tethyr Forest on your right grows closer and thicker as you travel north.

Yisi] “The Forest King rules a deep dominion, and silent citizens praise his throne. From the shadows of life he bears one weight, the waking of wonder among his own.

Valea] “This Umber Cat would like to meet this king and have her wonder awakened too.”

Yisi] “I dare think we have become his citizens by passing so close to his kingdom.”

] Araola “The Wealdath will grow thicker and deeper yet. A few hours ahead, we must travel right through as it flows over into the Dragons Neck. We have often met with trouble where the Way North grows dark with wood.”

Valea] “This one has not been further than Mosstone… at least, not in memory. Do tell a story?”

] Araola “We have encountered Gnolls a few times. There are several gangs of them hunting these woods, and they do love the hunt. Our first encounter was fairly easy because their numbers were small, but they learned quickly not to overestimate travelers on the Way North. Last time, we were overpowered and had to flee to save the lives of our Defended. A shipment was lost but no lives. ”

] Arathen “It may be best to save these stories until after we have passed through the dark parts of Way North… ”

Yisi] “We are unwilling to be frightened, but I do appreciate the care. What else have you seen? ”

] Tolvathir “Tell them about the time the Ogre got crushed by the Treant!”

] Araola “We were ambushed on trip by an Ogre and a large band of goblins. We were holding our own but getting tired, and the Ogre was a heavy bully… over 11 foot tall and chaotic with his cudgel. It was sending strong fighters flying, along with his own goblins. Suddenly, roots snaked their way around its legs and pulled it back into the forest. We lost sight of it but heard the ground shaking with terrible blows. We were still fighting off the remaining goblins when the thousand pound corpse fell out of the canopy and splat! Right on top of several gobbies. The thing feed the birds and beasts of the forest for weeks. Last time we came through, its bones were still there.”

Valea] “A Treant did this?”

] Tolvathir “What else? There are rumors that they patrol the Wealdath. The Druids in this area all but worship them. I have heard other such stories too… merchants being protected by the very forest itself.”

] Arathen “I have heard just as many stories of merchants being killed by the forest itself… but it is true, Araola and I were saved by trees that day. And I give offerings to them in thanks. ”

] The half-elf guards share more stories from the 3 years they have been escorting clients up and down The Trade Way. Most of their contracts have such a story, they tell you. Arathen stops the talk with a warning to keep quiet and keep watch as the forest begins to grow on your left side as well. You are entering into what they called “The Dark” of the Way North. As the canopy overhead thickens, it begins to feel like nightime, even though Darkstar Sleeping is still hours away.

] Araola “We have made good time. We should be through the Dark in about 3 hours and then we can set up camp on the other side – before we get too close the Tethir Road. The crossroads there can present a different kind of danger. Bandits love the crossroad… and I would too if I were a road bandit. The Trade Way drops down into a sharp ravine. The Tethir Road crosses it in this ravine where the walls are steep and 20 foot high. It is an ideal pinch-point with lots of traffic.”

] The air within “The Dark” has a cold chill to it, even though it is a warm High Sun day. It has been dark as a moonless night for nearly an hour now. There is a stench in the air which is difficult to describe as it is unlike anything. It burns your nostrils and your eyes begin to water. Up ahead in the darkness you hear a horrifying screech.

] Arathen “Hold up! I recognize that sound. An owlbear is hunting… and it is close enough that we may be what it is hunting. Let us stand at the ready here. We will take the front. ”

Yisi] I follow Arathen, Araola and Tolvathir to the front of the caravan.

Valea] As do I.

] Tronk has already climbed down in front of their oxen and has his war hammer at the ready. There is no sign of Nim or Norli.  Guard Vedette and Guard Varannt Each take position on either side of the caravan near the back  to guard against other attacks. [()]

] As you all hold still and at the ready for attack, Valea notices off to the left side of the road, an odd grouping of dark foliage. Nothing apparent is moving, you just notice something about the dark shape of nature seeming unnatural.

Valea] I take a closer look to the left side. Basto Stick held strong in front of me

1d20 Perception 18 +4 = 22

] You see that the unnatural shape is not actually trees and moss and foliage but a creature. It unfolds and launches at you in aggression. [()] A misshapened claw at the end of an unnaturally long arm swipes out at you and rakes your furry flesh (10dmg). A second claw follows from the dark wood [()] but misses you. The face of the creature becomes clear as it lurches in to bite you. [()] Your Basto Stick successfully keeps the mangled teeth from reaching you.

] On the right side of the roadway, another earthy green creature leaps out at Yisi [()] You see the first claw coming but the speed of the second swipe is amazingly quick and draws blood (7dmg). It leaps out onto the roadway and you can see it is some sort of troll.

[Initiative Order]

] Valea has first attack

Valea] I use my Basto Stick to attack the hideous creature (Troll02). And follow up with a Flurry of Blows

1d20 Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] Dmg 5 +5 = 10

1d20 Attack 7 +6 = 13 [Miss]

1d20 Attack 12 +6 = 18 [Hit] Dmg 5 +5 = 10

] You jab the butt-end of your staff into chest of the troll. It sinks in strangely but makes solid connection ultimately. You pull back as you turn and swing. Your first swing misses but you allow the momentum to sweep you around and strike the head of the thing solidly.

] Guard Argathen steps in to assist you with the troll (02). [()] He turns side to side, sweeping a scimitar gracefully until within range and the curved blade circles up, seperating troll flesh across its torso. A foul gas releases from the sliced warts on the troll.[Roll Con Save] [()]

Valea] “Nastiness!” I turn my head and hold my breath

1d20 Con Save 16 +7 = 23 [Save]

] Tronk yells something in Goblin as he stomps in with his maul raised overhead. [()] He brings it down on the skull of the troll (02) with a critical strike. The bones within the beasts head are heard cracking. The troll drops down, its long arms brace against the ground. It sinks and then springs up teeth first against Tronk [()] which misses. It makes unnerving growling sound as it swipes to slice Tronk with its claws. [()] The first attack rips open bugbear flesh but the second misses. Tronk’s face becomes grim with the pain.

] Guard Ariola has gone to the right of the roadway against the troll (01) that has leaped out of the forest. She appears to be dancing as she steps in to attack with her scimitar [()] but misses. Her younger brother follows her example in attack [()] and also misses.

Yisi] I use a bonus action to try and identify any potential vital points on this creature.

1d20 Medicine [Giant DC 18] 12 +3 = 15 [Fail]

] The troll towers over you, its arms so long it could scratch its toes while standing up straight. You see no indication of any vital points within your reach.

Yisi] I attack with a best guess. “Bend down here so I can poke out your eyes!”

1d20 Attack 20 [Crit] Dmg 8 +5 +7 = 20

] You plunge the long needles of your Trisula deep into it lower abdomen area. If feels like spearing a large wheel of cheese. The giant reacts with a growl of pain as you circle out and withdraw your weapons from the beasts belly. It swipes a giant claw at you [()] and gashes your shoulder [7dmg] and then brings the unnaturally long claws other unnaturally long arms against you [()] and misses as you duck and roll.

] Guard Varannt fires a crossbow at the same troll (01) from one of the caravan wagons [()] and the bolt buries itself into the chest of the giant. Guard Vedette has the same tactic, firing on the other side (troll02) [()] successfully.

] Top of Round

Valea] “Watch out for the stink sacs!” I yell over to Yisi and the others. I deploy another round of attacks, trying to be mindful of the scum spitting boils on the beast (troll 02).

1d20 Attack 11 +7 = 18 [Hit] Dmg 4 +5 = 9

1d20 Flurry 6 +6 = 12 [Miss]

1d20 Flurry 11 +6 = 17 [Hit] 2 +4 = 6

[Does Valea’s attack strike a muskwart boil? [()] no.]

] Your weapon batters the giants rib cage and you manage to avoid breaking open any boils.

] Guard Argathen continues his attack. [()] His blade is blocked by a claw but it scrapes up into a long finger, coating the sharp edge with troll blood.

] Tronk brings his Maul of Terror to bear once again (troll 02) [()] but fails critically, opening himself up for an opportunity attack. [()] The troll retaliates with bite attempt but misses.

] As the giant winds up to swing a claw at Tronk, a thin glowing net drops down on it from a tree above and drapes the troll in a green glow. Then a long thin dagger of bright light shoots down and spears through the torso of the troll and then dissipates as it exits its chest. The trolls face shows anguish and fear for a moment before the body drops to the roadway.

] “Its blood is mine!” You hear a gravelly voice say from trees.

] On the other side of the roadway, Ariola is attacking the other troll (01) [()] Her longsword lops off one of its long arms at the elbow. Tolvalthir flanks the giant [()] and gains a critical hit on it. His scimater opens up a huge chunk of troll flesh and noxious fumes spit out at everything within 10 feet. Roll Con Save. Tolvathir is poisoned. Ariola is poisoned.

Yisi]

1d20 Con Save Throw 11 +2 = 13 [Save]

Yisi] I step in beside Tolvathir and attempt to take advantage of the open wound.

2d20a Attack 20 [Crit] Dmg 8 +4 +7 = 19

] With the insides of the troll exposed, you gain a critical advantage with your needles. The giant falls dead but is still for only a second. The exposed insides gurgle and you can see the flesh starting to repair itself. From its prone position it strikes out with its remaining hand at [()] Tolvathir but misses. It lurches and attempt to bite [()] Ariola who manages to step back far enough. The hand she cut off just previously, however, is crawling towards her. [()] The claws wrap around her calf and clinch down on the armor but fails to draw blood.

] Guard Varannt yells “We need fire!” and he attempts to plunge his longsword down into the troll [()] successfully. A gnome dressed in green and brown forest colors jumps in and, seemingly from the palm of an empty hand, throws a thin green net over the corpse of the troll. The flesh sizzles for a moment before the net dissapates into a gel and then disappears. The troll remains still and silent. “Its blood is mine!” The gnome says. “I’ve been hunting these three for over a tenday now… I claim rights.” He looks down and sees the troll forearm clinging to Ariolas calf. “You got something on your leg there…. Hand me that torch. Quick like!” He burns the still squeezing hand and pulls it away.

Yisi] “You are welcomed to whatever you want from the corpse… I only desire some distance from it. Wait… you said three…” I step back into ready stance and search the forest for another.

] Gnome “Right, three is what I said.”

] Ariola “Where is the third then?”

] Gnome “Oh… right… it still needs killing. I will get to it as soon as I harvest these.” From the small satchel hanging at his hip, he pulls out a large tube shaped device. It is at least 4 feet long – taller than the gnome himself – and about a foot in diameter. Up the length of one side, there are several vials inserted into the device. One end has three needle sharp prongs which he plunges into the troll corpse. You see a green viscous liquid begin filling up the vials. As they fill, the gnome swaps them with empty vials, placing the full ones into the small pouch.

Valea] “This one is new in these parts… what could anyone want with the nasty’s blood?”

] Argathen “Poisons most likely.”

] Gnome “Yes, poisons. Also potions. Very good potions that heal very good.”

Yisi] “You have been hunting these trolls? Three of them? By yourself?”

] Gnome “Yes. Well I found them all together at first. That did not go well. Taking on three at a time is ill-advised. Lucky for me you came along.” He yanks the device out of the troll and then walks over to the other and plunges it in, filling up even more vials. “But the blood of three trolls is a huge payday for me. Rayni will smile at me for hours. She will also pay me some gold, but for the smile of Rayni I would go against 6 trolls! 7 Maybe!”

Valea] “Valea thinks she sees grand love in the little brave.”

] Gnome “Valea?”

Yisi] “Yes, her name is Valea. I am Yisi.” I introduce the others standing there. “Well met brave one.”

] Gnome “I am called Joloobo. I already forgot your names. You is a lot of people.” He yanks the device out of the second troll and somehow slips it back into the small pouch. “I should get after the other one.”

Valea] “How is Joloobo so sure there is another here?”

Joloobo] “I heard it. So did you… that Owlbear screech? That was the third troll. See they are not real smart, but they figured out that their prey was too often aware of them by smell long before sight. I have no idea how they came up with the idea but I’ve seen other troupes of forest trolls use the same tactic. The mimic’d Owlbear screech puts you on alert right at the time you start wondering what the awful smell is. The sound of danger far off distracts you from the danger right beside you. They keep their bellies full with the trick. Still… they must a learned it from something smarter than they are. Say… speaking of something smarter… which way are you heading?”

Yisi] “We travel North to Tethir Road and then East toward Brost.”

Joloobo] “Glad I asked then. There is a new dragon hunting along the Tethir road, a young green dragon. I’ve seen caravans your size wiped out recently. If you have anything shiny in your wagons, cover it up… I suspect it is just as concerned with building its hoard as it is with filling its belly. Watch the skies friends. And now… I away to finish of my own prey.”

] The gnome jumps off into the forest and disappears.

Valea] “Well that was exciting. Everyone okay?”

] Just as you ask the question, Tolvathir erupts with vomiting. His sister looks like she was just holding things together until that point, and turns towards the forest and begins vomitting herself.

Yisi] “We should rest a little while… but perhaps we can move ahead and get upwind of the troll smell eh?” I feel a brief inspiration strike. “Green nasties lie in wait, they trick my ears, my flesh to taste, but then a brave in forest style, bottles nasty blood  for the price of a smile.”

Valea] “Knife-ear should keep working on that one… but it was exciting, and strange. How, this one wonders, did he that large thing in and out of such a small bag?”

] Guard Vedette “I’ve seen such things in Calimshan. In fact, Norli might be able to make them. The are commonly calls ‘Bags of Holding’… something about pocket dimensions or some such thing. I don’t understand it, but I’ve seen it.”

] At the mention of Norli’s name, Tronk scrambles back to their wagon “Norli okay? Nim Okay?” you hear Nim confirm they are both fine.

One Night in Mosstone (is never enough)

[RECAP] You are on your way to Treyvigg Monastery to replenish a supply of Summertide Wine for one of your favorite teachers at Song Moon Temple, where you have lived since you were children. You will spend some extra time there to develop your martials skills with Elder Arrodon. At daybreak today you left temple grounds by way of a magic portal which put you, a couple of horses and a flatbed wagon in the foothills of Starspire Mountains near The Trade Way. As you were traveling North, you witnessed a caravan ahead of you on the roadway being stopped by bandits. You rushed to their aid and fended off the group of Half-Orc bandits calling themselves “Cyrics Cudgel”.

] You arrive in Mosstone later than planned. The lights of the town are already glowing against the night sky. You and the three other wagons you have been traveling with for a better part of the day head straight to Drovers Field – a large enclosed field where caravans can park their wagons – for a small fee of 2 gp a night. The caravan field is patrolled by three attendants, members of the town guard, to help prevent theft. As you arrive, you pay the 2 gp to a Half-Elf attendant and join the others on the far end of the fenced in field. Nim and Norli and Tronk are content to stay with their wagon. The two human female guards say they will go into town to restock some supplies.

Yisi] “We planned on hiring some extra guard here in Mosstone for our travel east along the Small Teeth. We hope to find a room in town for the night, but should that fail, we will camp here. Regardless, we shall see you at first light to continue North?”

] Nim Bragos agrees and wishes you a good night before vanishing within their wagon. As you walk into Mosstone you see many of the shops are closed for the day but Drovers Drink is lively. They have recently expanded the main tavern area… it used to be just little more than a narrow hallway with a bar and a few closet-sized rooms in the back. As you walk by, you see a large number of people within, 30… maybe 40.

Valea] “This one smells a fine mead she must surely try… but first, our business.”

Yisi] “Agreed. Oak Fathers may be a good option too. I could use a helping of Fathers ‘Boon Stew'”

] Because Mosstone is frequently travelled by caravans, much of this north-eastern side of town is setup to meet common needs. The main Mosstone market is on the west side of town, but there is a market square here with all the basic provisionings set close to Drovers Field. There are also booths setup of protection companies where you can hire guard from established groups rather than taking your chances in Drovers Drink. The first booth you happen upon which actually has someone to talk with is a protection guild called Titans Fist Protection Company. The human in the booth introduces himself as Tyneos.

Yisi] “Well met Tyneos. We are looking for two guards for the rest of our trip north and then east along the south side of The Small Teeth. We expect 3, maybe 4 nights to get there.”

] Tyneos “Certainly. We can meet your need. We have several sanctioned defenders available. Will you staying at your destination or will you need protection for your return as well?”

Yisi] “We will be staying at our destination. We need your service to help get us there only.”

] Tyneos “Understood. Standard cost is 10 gold per day per certified guard for active protection. They also need to be paid for their time returning which is half-cost.” He does a little math in his head… “4 days travel and let us say 2 days returning, times 2 guards, that will be 100 gold. Half now, half on your successful destination.”

Valea] “This one is surprised! Such cost?”

] Tyneos “It is standard pricing these days. You could spend more if you want specialized guards such as magic users or healers, but for guards that are handy with a sword or an axe, and are sanctioned, 10 gold per day is common. You might be able to find a lot cheaper mercenaries in Drovers Drink, but you have no guarantee they won’t rob you while you sleep and leave you alone in the wilderness. Titans Fist Protection Company ensures its guards are upstanding and guarantees your satisfaction.”

Yisi] “He does have a point Valea… we came to a business for this very reason. ”

Valea] “Of course pointy-ear… Moggy may want job here someday, that is all.” I smile at Tyneos. “Struck deal yes?”

] You pay Tyneos 50 gold and arrange to meet your guards at the gate into Drovers Field at first light. While in the market, you arrange for some extra basic provisioning, water and rations etc to be delivered as well.

Valea] “Drovers Drink? Or Oak Fathers Boon? This one thinks we are right here and so is Drovers Drink…”

Yisi] “Drovers it is.” I say smiling

] You cross the market square and enter Drovers Last Drink. The tavern is crowded and noisy. Many appear to be locals. Mostly humans but you notice some others as well, several half-elves and dwarves. There is a group of about 8 halflings gathered in the back playing some sort of game with small sticks on a table and there is a loud group across from the bar gambling in a game where they throw a handful of stones against the wall and bet on the result.

Valea] I go to the bar. “This one smells mead she would like to try.”

] Kliosa the Barmaid “That would be Ursa’s Bee Hive you smell. Local to the area. We keep it simmering here – it is best served warm.” She looks to Yisi, and her eyes seem to linger a bit as if attracted to you. “Two Ursa’s?”

Yisi] “Please.” I smile at her, but then turn to look over the room.

] Kliosa “We don’t often see folks with tails in Mosstone. You from across the sea? Maztica I think I’ve heard? Strange stories I’ve heard… like the whole land vanishing for a hundred years… is that really true? They say it just reappeared a few years back. I guess there are stranger things in the realms. Where did it go? Were you there when came back? Oh… And I love your wrap, is that a Calishite design?”

Valea] “This one does not know. Tethyr has been home since I can remember, but yes, I have been told that my kind came from jungle worlds far across sea. Someday Valea would like to…

] As you are speaking to the barmaid, a man runs into the tavern yelling “The attendant is has been killed! We need the guard!” He goes on to explain that he saw several half-orcs in the field and they had just killed one of the field attendants. They were heading towards the wagons, probably to loot them.

Yisi] “Quick! To Nim and Norli!”

] You race out into Drovers Field. Along the way to your own wagons, you witness several others that have been set on fire and groups of half-orcs killing man and beast. As you near your own wagon, you see Tronk trying to combat a group of 6 marauders which have not yet gotten to the wagons.

Valea] I rush in to help Tronk

Yisi] I attempt to cloak myself in shadow to gain some advantage against their numbers.

1d20 Stealth 17 +6 = 23

] You are hidden and can engage your Shadow Shroud

[Initiative]

] Tronk attacks one of the half-orc Bandits (5) with his hammer [()]

Valea] I attack one of the Bandits (6) which is behind Tronk to protect if I can.

1d20 Attack 17 +7 = 24 [Hit] | 2d4 Dmg 4 +5 = 9

1d20 Unarmed Attack 13 +6 = 19 [Hit] | 1d4 Dmg 3 + 4 = 7

] You barrage the half-orc with blows, pulling his attention away from Tronk and to you.

] One of the Bandits (4) attempts to smack Tronk with a maul [()] but misses critically and trips over some uneven surface, falling prone. Another (5) attempts to return Tronks damage [()] but also fails to connect with the giant bugbear. The bandit (6) facing Valea strikes [()] but fails to hit.

Yisi] I decide there is no better time to try my new magical sash – Haste. Then I use a bonus action to hamper a Bandit (1) with Serpents Hiss.

[()] Bandit (1) is deafened and poisoned for 3 rounds

] Bandit (1) looks confused as he lifts a crossbow and aims toward Valea [()] he misses critically, sinking a bolt into the Bandit (6) attacking Valea. Another Bandit (2) about 15 feet from Valea attempts to fire their crossbow at her as well [()] and is successful.

Valea] I use my reaction for Deflect Missiles.

1d10 Deflect Missiles 10 + 4 + 3 = 17

] The bolt is well aimed, but you are quick to expect it and bat it away, almost absent-mindedly, with your Basto Stick.

] Another Bandit (3) goes after Tronk with a maul [()] but the attack is blocked. Tronk tries to use the attack to his advantage [()] and drives his hammer into the off-balanced half-orc.

Valea] I attack the Bandit (5) flanking Tronk

1d20 Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] | 2d4 Dmg 7 + 5 = 12

Valea] and then attempt to kick the Bandit (4) who had fallen prone

2d20a unarmed attack 16 + 6 = 22 [Hit] | 1d4 Dmg 3 +4 = 7

2d20a flurry attack 19 +6 = 25 [Hit] | 1d4 Dmg 3 +4 = 7 bonus 3 +4 = 7 +7 = 14

] You repeatedly bash and smash the vulnerable half-orc lying on the ground until he stops struggling against you. As you look up from the bloody bandit, you see another group of Half-Orcs running towards you. They are yelling war cries of “Cyrics Cudgel!” as the charge forward.

Yisi] I circle in behind the Bandits (1 & 2) firing crossbow bolts at Valea and from the shadow, I attack with my Trisula

2d20a Attack 17 +7 = 24 [Hit] | 2d4 Dmg 7 +7 = 14

2d20a Haste Attack 19 +6 = 25 [Hit] | 2d4 Dmg 5 +4 = 9

2d20a Unarmed attack 16 +6 = 22 [Hit] | 1d4 Dmg 4 +4 = 8

] Out of a shadow, your hair-fine needles strike into the back of one of the Bandit and he drops in silence, not that the other half-orc would have heard anything anyhow as he was still deaf when you completed your shadow attack with a snapping side kick into his ear. His neck slams to one side and then bounces back to the other as if being held on only by skin and dead sinew. You see 5 more bandits (7-8-9-10-11) rushing to join the fight against you.

[Initiative Adds]

Bandits 7-10 5

Bandit Captain

] The Bugbear gets a running start at one of the charging Bandits (9) [()] and catches him solid in the hip, causing the Half-orcs body to twist unnaturally. He nearly loses his footing but manages to recover from the blow facing the opposite direction he was running.

Valea] Following Tronks charge, the Bandit he hit now has it’s back to me – I take advantage

2d20a Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] 2d4 Dmg 6 +4 = 10

] No sooner than the Bandit (9) recover his balance than Valea slams her Basto sticks into him, shattering his spine. Yisi, as you are watching the incoming group of Bandits, you notice one of them hangs back… and as Valea easily drops one of the chargers she begins yelling to others behind him in Orcish.

Yisi] When I see one of the Bandits calling what appear to be orders to the rest, I decide she must be carrying some authority over the marauding murderers… she becomes my next target of attack. Using the extra speed from Haste, I circle the battle area and attempt to use stealth to approach her from behind.

1d20 Stealth 14 +6 = 20 [Success]

2d20a Attack 11 +7 = 18 [Hit] 2d4 Dmg 6 +7 = 13

2d20a Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] 2d4 Dmg 7 +7 = 14

2d20a Flurry 18 +6 = 24 [Hit] 1d4 Dmg 4 +6 = 10

2d20a Flurry 15 +6 = 21 [Hit] 1d4 Dmg 1 +6 = 7

] You manage to approach the Bandit Captain from behind and gain surprise in the round. Your Trisula sink deep into the Half-Orcs flesh beneath or though her studded leather armor. Then you crouch expecting a retaliation swing of her large curved blade but she appears briefly stunned by the sudden pain so you spring up, driving a knee into her rib cage and then coming down with an elbow into the side of her neck. As you land on your feet and prepare for her return assault, you hear a new rush of battle yells – these do not sound orcish but largely human, but you do not turn your eyes away to better understand what is happening.

] A Bandit (7) swings a longsword at Tronk [()] hitting only his armor. Another (8) attempts to flank the Bugbear and gains an advantage [()] and Tronk yells with the pain of the blow. The third (10) confronts Valea with a wild but powerful swing of her maul [()] but you see the attack coming and step forward into the swing beyond where the weapon can even make contact with you. You use the half-orcs wild energy to your own advantage and spin around behind the attacker.

] The Bandit Captain has regained enough of her senses to launch an attack against you Yisi [()] Her scimitar slices through the air in three downward strikes, pushing you back. The first draws some blood as the orcish woman’s speed surprises but you are able to block the remaining attacks with the Trisula held over your forearms.

] Tronk is returning blows to his attacker (7) with his war hammer [()] and gains a critical hit on the bandit, smashing the attacker with a spouting of blood which sprays across the battle area.

Valea] Next Bandit up! (8)

1d20 Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] 2d4 Dmg 5 +5 = 10

1d20 Unarmed 9 + 6 = 15

] You engaged one of the remaining Bandits and deal enough damage to stagger the large Half-Orc. You notice that a large group has charged out of the town, many with weapons, some carrying water to put out the fires that are still burning. The Bandit Captain also sees the incoming surge of townsfolk and appears to panic, losing her focus on the current engagement. She yells something in Orcish and then turns to retreat from the combat with Yisi.

Yisi] I take my reaction for opportunity attack

2d20a Attack 18 +7 = 25 [Hit] 2d4 Dmg 2 +7 = 9

] She realizes her mistake a second to late as your black needles slide between her ribs.

] Shaxt “You win. We are running.”

Yisi] I leave one dagger lodged in her ribcase and put the other to her throat. “I feel like at this moment… you are not going to run any farther than I decide to allow. Why did you attack Drovers Field so viciously?!?”

] Shaxt “Three of our fellows were killed today by merchants heading for Mosstone. We sought revenge.”

Yisi] “I killed the Bandits while protecting innocent travelers from your fellows blades. I feel like killing you now will protect even more innocent.”

] Meanwhile the two other bandits turned to run, only one of them successfully. The other has Tronks hammer is his head.

] Shaxt “Let us strike a deal. I can pay well in exchange for my life. Very well.”

Yisi] I force the Bandit Captain to her knees. “What think you Valea, is there a deal to be struck with evil?”

Valea] “Valea thinks not.” I jab my Basto Stick into her other side. “Golden-boy is right, if the innocent shall live, the evil should not.”

Yisi] “What is this Cyrics Cudgel you mongrels keep yelling? You would give The Church of Cyric back its power to torment the realms?”

] Shaxt “Cyric shall return! And Cyrics Cudgel paves his way.”

] Tronk “Tronk hear nuff.” and he swings his hammer like a miner plunging his pick deep into the ground. You are all sprayed with brains and blood. Tronk laughs mockingly in a way that only a Bugbear can.

Valea] “Ahhgg! This one needs a bath now! Moggy hates baths Tronk. She hates them. Look at the mess all over Norli’s beautiful weave. Arrghh!”

] Tronk “Me sorry. Tronk forget sometimes.” He turns towards the wagon “Me sorry Norli.”

Yisi] I pick through the corpse of the Bandit Captain to see what I can find or learn about Cyrics Cudgel.

] You find a pouch with coin totaling 174 gold and several small gems which may be worth twice that each. There is a note written in Orcish. You also find two exotic looking daggers in her belt. The markings on the hilts seem to match those of the scimitar she was wielding. The other Bandit corpses all had small amounts of coin – 143 in total. But not much else of interest.

] Nim “Is it over? Will we live another night Tronk?”

] Tronk “Nim Bragos live! Norli ok?”

] Nim “We are both ok. I would appear we owe you two some more gratitude. Were these the same group of thugs we met on the Trade Way this morning?”

Yisi] “Indeed they were. I had a feeling they would cause us more trouble, I just never expected they would attempt to ravage Drovers Field! It seems they are part of some cult wanting to bring back the Church of Cyric – I have read about them … cult heads will do some brash and stupid things… and cause a lot of death in the process. They used to be a feared and hated presence around Amn before the spellplague. Our First Teacher said that Cyric was actually involved in causing the spellplague and for that was banished from planes for a thousand years. I can’t believe we would even hear his name again, much less have to battle his fanatics.”

] Fires are put out and the bodies of men, Half-orcs, and livestock are moved to the far side of the field. Attendant Guards are doubled for the rest of the night. You sleep under a makeshift tent near your wagon.

North Along The Trade Way

] An hour ago, you arrived via portal in the foothills of The Starspire Mountains close to The Trade Way. One of your teachers in the Song Moon Temple has asked you to journey to the Treyvigg Monastery to replenish his supply of Summertide Wine. While you are there, a monk named Elder Arrodonn will spend time with you – teaching you martial defensive tactics, which the monastery is renowned for. You are riding in a flat bed wagon being pulled by two horses, one black, one khaki in color. The day is early still and this section of The Trade Way has seen little traffic. Summer is in full affect all around you and the blue sky cheers you as the sun warms your skin. About a league to your left you can see the coastline of Firedrake Bay and even large portions of the forested Dragon’s Neck Peninsula.

] The roadway has curved up and down and turned left and right for the past 10 miles. You are just reaching the crest of an upward slope and you can see the Trade Way starts a long and straight downward stretch. About a half mile ahead of you, you see a small caravan of 3 wagons being pulled by a team of what appear to be oxen. The lead wagon is a wide and tall box carriage. Off the left of the Trade Way, the hillside down to Firedrake Bay steepens – nearly to becoming cliffs. To the right of the roadway for as far as you can see, there is the thick forest of The Wealdath.

] Before you start on the download slope, you notice the caravan ahead has pulled to a stop about 2000 feet ahead of you. There are 4 bandits standing in the roadway in front of the lead wagon. Yisi – you can see that they are all half-orcs with crossbows in their hands.

Yisi] “Bandits!”

Valea] “Already? This one thought the trouble still a day or two away.”

Yisi] “I see 4 of them, but there may be more in the forest. The wagons surely have some guard right? Should we try to help or wait back?”

Valea] “If we don’t help, we will be the next in line to be victims. Better… Valea thinks… to join against bandits yes?”

Yisi] “Agreed” We urge the horses on towards the hold-up.

] As you close to the downhill distance to about half, the action starts up in front of the lead wagon. A large Bugbear has jumped down from the front of the wagon and two other fighters have joined him from the trailing wagons. One falls with two bolts in his chest before he can even engage, the other has drawn a longsword.

Yisi] I pull our horses in behind the last wagon and draw my weapons. “Watch for fire from the right – there should be more than four of them.”

Valea] I also ready weapons and run to join the combat along the left side of the stopped wagons.

[Initiatives]

] The female guard with the longsword attacks the first Bandit (01) which fired on the other guard [()] but she swings in anger and fails to get through the half-orcs defense. As you approach, you pass by the guard that was felled. He appears to be alive but has two bolts protruding from his chest.

Valea] I join the other guard in attacking the same bandit.

1d20 Attack 15 +7 = 22 [Hit] | Dmg 3 +5 = 8

1d20 unarmed Attack 8 +6 = 14 [Miss]

] You rush in and make solid contact with your Basto Stick, but the attempt to follow-up with a spin kick falls short. The other bandits both focus their crossbow fire on you and the guard. [()] You hear the mechanism of the crossbow and easily dodge the attack, but the guard took a hit, the bolt glancing off of her.

Yisi] I go after the second Bandit (2) on the left side and attack with my Trisula

1d20 Attack 11 +7 = 18 [Hit] |Dmg  4 +7 = 11

1d20 unarmed Attack 16 + 6 = 22 [Hit] | Dmg 3 +6 = 9

] You surprise the Bandit (2) with your speed of movement which puts the half-orc just slightly off balance – which is plenty enough for you to target vulnerable targets with your needle daggers. The tendon connecting his torso to his hips and legs is damaged, causing the huge enemy to double forward. You spring up with a knee to the falling forehead, snapping his neck backwards. The Bandit falls into his death.

] The 9 foot tall Bugbear from the lead wagon goes after one of the right-side bandits (3) [()] successfully drawing blood with an intimidating roar. Both Bandits (3&4) focus on the Bugbear [()] and successfully strike but the giant beast seems unhurt.

] The Guard again attacks the same Bandit (1) [()] dropping him to a knee.

Valea] I use a spinning heel kick to the Bandit (1)

2d20  unarmed Attack 12 +6 = 18 [Hit] | Dmg 4 +4 = 8

] Your heel makes a solid connection to the half-orc’s skull, shaking his brains beyond recovery.

Valea] I run to the other side and attack one of the Bandits engaged with the Bugbear, facing away from me.

2d20a Attack 15 +7 = 22 [Hit] | Dmg 4 +5 = 9

] You leap into the air and bring your Basto Sticks into the backside of the half-orcs neck, snapping it into several pieces. His head flops as his body drops.

] Bandit (4) sees he is now alone and turns to run into the forest, giving the Bugbear an attack of opportunity. [()] The remaining Bandit is hurt but manages to escape into the forest. From the dark foliage, you hear him shout out “Cyrics Cudgel shall be avenged!”

] The Bugbear shakes his warhammer into the sky and roars some frightening response into the wood, then turns back to the wagon.

] Tronk “Nim alive? Norli ok?”

] A three foot tall halfling sticks his head out of the wagon box and looks around.

] Nim “Are we good? Bad guys dead Tronk?”

] Tronk “Bad guys dead.”

] Nim “Oh good. Well done Tronk.”

] The halfling man is nearly naked, wearing just a white silken loin cloth. His hair is long and bleached to bright blonde color. His skin looks sun-baked brown.

] Nim “What have we here? An elf and a cat… Since Tronk is not pulling you apart, I assume you are not with the Bandits.”

] Guard Vedette “They came in from roadway behind us and lept to our aid in perfect time. Guard Varannt has been hurt, I must see to him.”

Yisi] “Well met. My name is Yisi and this is Valea. It is true, we were on the road behind you and saw what was happening.”

] Nim “We extend our thanks. Tronk would have probably crushed them all on his own, but your help made quick work of the fools.” He turns back inside the boxed wagon. “Norli. We have an injured guard, please see what you can do?”

] Another halfing exits from the wagon, a female dressed in blue satin robes. She puts a hand down on the wagon and somersaults off and lands deftly on her little feet. Without saying a word, she goes to the injured guard and covers his wounds with some woven cloth. Then she walks over to Valea and looks you up and down. She touches the Basto Stick in the holster on your outer thigh and then turns and leaps back into the carriage. She returns with two long strips of woven cloth, brown with green knot designs. She holds them out to you. You notice that each of the strips of cloth have an emblem stamped into them that looks like a small bird carrying a weavers knot.

] Nim “Norli would like to express her gratitude with a gift. Don’t be too grateful now Norli… those fetch a nice sum back in Calimport remember?”

] The female halfling hands you one of the strips of cloth and motions for you to raise your hands. She then wraps the long strip around your waist, being careful of your tail. Then she takes the other long strip and wraps it around your back to the front, crossing over your breasts. She a moment and straightens the cloth out. It seems to cling to itself so that it need not be tied down.

] The woven material is enchanted. The top strip grants you immunity to Force damage while you are wearing it (no attunement) and the bottom strip grants you a limited version of Freedom of Movement – while wearing this cloth, you have advantage and a bonus +4 on any saving throws to avoid or escape any sort of grappling, speed reduction, restraint or paralysis. Difficult terrain will not decrease your speed.

Valea] “Valea is very grateful for your gift. These are both beautiful and valuable beyond warrant, this moggie-girl is very pleased to be so graced. Thank you Norli.”

] The halfling then walks over to Yisi and same as before, looks you up and down and touches the weapons at your side. She takes longer than she did with Valea but then brightens and leaps into the wagon, returning with a black sash. She motions to drap it over your head across your chest.

] Nim “Now that one is really far too much Norli. I could have sold that for a thousand gold pieces. And probably a lot more in Baldurs Gate ”

Yisi] “Oh wow… well I agree with Nim, this is far too costly. I can more than be repaid with just a smile from you Norli.” I start to take the sash off.

] Norli smiles at you but stops your hand. She turns and shakes a fist at her brother Nim and then turns back to you, straightening the sash and admiring how it lays across you. This is a magical sash that grants you the Haste spell on yourself once per day while wearing it. (No attunement)

] Nim “Ok fine Norli. You are right… It is yours to do with as you please.” He looks to up you and explains. “Norli is a weaver with a special talent for creating enchanted cloth. I do hope you two feel sufficiently thanked. Norli does not usually interact with others but she seems to have taken some special liking to you. There are very few like her in this world – truly she is the most precious thing you helped to save today. Please forgive my grump?”

Valea] “Valea offers her friendship to the beautiful Norli… and to the grump Nim.”

Yisi] “Any friend of Valea’s is my friend as well. I do suggest we get moving however… the escaping Bandit said something that puzzles me and I think we should remain on high alert. Only four bandits attempted to stop you – I find it odd they would be so foolish to attempt a highjacking with such small numbers. There also seemed to be no leader with them, which tells me they were being brash in what they thought was an opportune moment. Surely this “Cyrics Cudgel” will have higher numbers…  and I expect they will be seeking to avenge the three we dropped today.”

] Tronk “Me throw bodies down hill?” he says looking back at Nim.

] Nim “Good thinking Tronk. First let’s gather their weapons and anything we can take to market.”

Yisi] I help loot the bodies, putting the spoils in their wagon, then start dragging the bodies off the cliff.

Valea] I go check on the injured guard.

] Guard Vedette and Guard Varannt are already back on the rear wagon. Varannt appears to be healed but a bit a sluggish.

Yisi] “We plan on making it to Mosstone by nightfall and then the rest of the way thru the Wealdath tomorrow. Can we join your caravan for as far as we share the path?”

] The halfling agrees, quoting some foreign proverb about safety in numbers. They are going all the way to Baldurs Gate. The caravan moves forward toward Mosstone.

In the Quarters of Teacher Solomvar

] You have been summoned to the quarters of Teacher Solomvar. You have heard that he has been teaching at Song Moon Temple ever since its founding just after the Spellplague over a hundred years ago. The two of you have been training at the temple in the Starspire Mountains for over a decade. You both began as wards of the monastery, but became novices when you reached an acceptable age. That was nearly 10 years ago now, and you have advanced through Novice ranks and both recently started wearing the colors of the Potential Adept. Potentials of the Song Moon Temple are sent on a series of assignments by the various teachers to test them and to further develop their skills and abilities. Most Novices begin their assignments with Adept-level teachers, with a final assignment from a Master-level teacher but you have been summoned for your first assignment by a Grandmaster in the monastery, which. The elderly half-elf is standing facing a shelf of books when you enter.

Yisi] Bowing my head I say – “Teacher Solomvar. We were pleased to recive a call from you. How can we serve?”

] Solomvar turns towards you and smiles. “Ah! Yisi and Valea! Just in time! I will soon be in need of more wine. I recently tapped my only remaining cask of Springtide Red and it will be a sad thing to see it dry without a resupply on the way. As our newest Potential Adepts, I think you two would be ideal candidates for the journey required to restock my favorite vintage.”

Valea] “This one would be glad for a journey. Sun is high and sky is blue, a journey for wine would seem just the thing to do yes?”

] Solomvar “Indeed! Just the thing! Your destination is the Treyvigg Monastery in the Small Teeth, nearly 150 miles away. It will require a half a tendays travel. Much of the distance is via the Trade Way… once you clear Tethirs Forest, turn East towards Brost. The monastary is about two  or three days travel from there as I recall. You will see the vineyards on the foothills. Should be difficult to miss… but if you arrive in Brost you went well too far… turn around and go back a day.
While you are there… I would like you to spend some time with a young friend of mine – Elder Arrodonn. He is among their very most proficient with defensive techniques… and if you know anything about Treyvigg Monastery – defensive tactics are what they are famous for… well… after their wine. I wish we could grow grapes here in the Starspires… something about elevation prevents it I’m told… but I that is not your concern.
I want you to plan on spending at least two months with Arrodonn. Given his talent for teaching and your talent for learning, that should give you proficiency as Keen Defenders. Then you can return and share your knowledge with the Adepts.”

Yisi] “We are eager to learn, and to teach, these techniques… but that means we will be away a long while. What about your wine?”

] Solomvar “I will just have to be patient then, won’t I? But trust me… the Summertide Red is worth waiting for. Now the journey north along the Trade Way is typically not too dangerous, but once you turn east on Tethir Road, your odds of encountering trouble will increase, and two is a small number compared to what may be waiting for you. If I were you, I would hire some extra blades when you pass through Mosstone.
Now… have any commitments you need to see through before you depart?”

Valea] “Only our daily tasks. We can be ready to leave at first light.”

] Solomvar “Perfect. I was hoping you had not already been called on by other teachers. They will get their turn… but you know Teacher Solomvar is getting old… I am glad to have your first service as Potentials.
Now go see Steward Faramond about getting the portal ready to open to the Trade Way. You will need some horses and a flatbed wagon. See Steward Kymma about provisions and some healing potions in case you need any.
Oh… and you will need some gold. I can attend to that chore right now.”

] He digs in a chest in the corner and drops a heavy bag in your hands. The contents are entirely gold coins. You estimate about 300 gp by the weight of it.

] Solomvar “The wine will cost 150gp, pay them 200gp instead. Use the rest as you need to. Treyvigg will provide your lodging while you are visiting students, but who knows what other expenses might confront you.”

Yisi] “Thank you Teacher Solomvar. And thank you for opportunity to increase our martial skill. To study with Elder Arrodonn promises to be a great privilege.”

] Solomvar “Oh indeed it is. We have had a long-standing agreement to cross train our Adepts, years now we have been discussing this actually, but I was waiting for the right Potetials to send. I am confident I have found them. Arrodonn may send others back with you to train here for a time. It would be ideal timing actually, so please offer the invite when the time comes.”

Valea] “We will be certain to do so. This one has not been beyond our mountain here, or anywhere near the Trade Way since she was very young. What kinds of dangers are we likely to meet with?”

] Solomvar “That is a long list… as long as your tail I am afraid… but you both have the skills to confront most of what you may find. I probably don’t need to say it… avoid the Dragons. There are a few known to live in the Small Teeth. You may encounters beasts or bandits – be smart about engaging. You could likely take twice your number in the average roadway bandit, but there are times when the best way to prove your courage is to run away and fight another day yes?”

Yisi] “Arise my battlefield! Unless you best sleep. Face me my foe! Unless you be certain of my woe.”

] Solomvar chuckles “Yes, something along those lines Yisi. Have you ever given thought to picking up a musical instrument?”

Yisi] “Thought? … yes… but while I enjoy the sound the music, it would seem I find little joy in the making of it. I have, however, been spending time with the temple scribes to learn how to work with ink.”

] Solomvar “Ink you say… yes, I suppose verse has a place on parchment as much as on a bards tongue. There is a certain wizard I know near Waterdeep who has perfected the art of enchanting her calligraphy. Nallasa Myst is her name. She is an accomplished poet… She is also a Firbolg and largely keeps herself to herself but I might be able to persuade her to spend some time with you. She would be difficult to learn from I expect, but I think truly… enchanting your verse could become the grand art of your life Yisi. I will try to reach Nallasa in the Ardeep Forest while you are gathering my wine.”

Valea] “This one prefers to hear the fancy words of my knife-ear, they are already magic to Valea.”

] Solomvar “Oh, he would still speak them. As I understand the enchantment, the reading aloud of words written with enchanted ink is like a wizards spell scroll, except that you do not need to be a trained wizard for the enchantment to work. Much depends on the ingredients within the ink itself, and the calligraphy skill of the inker.”

Yisi] “I would very much like to learn the skill Teacher Solomvar. I am grateful you would attempt to make it possible.”

] Solomvar “Nallanemys is the name some know her by. She introduced herself to me as simply Nallasa. She had been around a long time when I first met her – and that was before the spellplague. We have maintained correspondence because we share a love of good wine. In fact, that may be all that is needed to convince her to teach you… a cask of Summertide Red. Best order 8 casks from Treyviggs… just to be prepared.” He digs another 100 gp out of a pouch and hands it to you. “Here, this should do. Please be generous with the monks of Treyvigg – they are certainly generous themselves and deserve some returned upon them.”

Yisi] “Certainly. We will ensure it. Thank you Teacher Solomvar .”

] Solomvar “Now Valea… I have been thinking about you as well. Now that you are an Potential Adept, the world outside our walls are open to you. Yisi has been developing his art with poetry, but I have yet to learn where your art may be found.”

Valea] “Valea thinks martial prowess to be her art.”

] Solomvar, smiling… “So it is my feline friend, and you have certainly pursued it as such. I trust you will continue to as well – the power of an Adept is impressive, but you have the talent to move on to mastery – you both do. Your martial ability needs to be balanced however. This will become more apparent as you progress – in fact… without some art to provide this balance, mastery often hides from one seeking it. Yisi balances the physical with his verse, but there are many ways to accomplish this in our world. I want you to think on this while you journey Valea.”

Valea] “This one will do as her teacher enjoins. She is grateful for such wisdom.”

] Solomvar “Good good. You have a long journey calling you. Set things in order and sleep long tonight – it will be a long time before you have the peace of your chamber again – appreciate it, but do not cling to it. You venture into a time where gentle peace will be elusive. Even while you board with the monks at Treyvigg, you must not relax your guard until you return home. Now off with you before I teach you another lesson you did not ask for.”

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