Difference between pages "Returning to Treborg" and "An Unpleasant Discovery"

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'''The DM:''' [I know I should pay more attention, but I'm still unclear as to where the wagon has been this whole time.  In Treborg?]
+
'''The DM:''' The morning of the 25th of June is a beautiful, clear, pleasant day, as nice as you might desire for this part of the world.  The sun is shining, the ground is dry and the wind is a mere 2 knots out of the northwest.  There are a few small puffy clouds, but no sign of rain at all.  The air is clear and the various denizens along the cart path to the wilderness are beginning to recognize you, nodding as you pass.  You climb up the familiar track off the road, the cart wheels banging over the rocks as you take the best route, with Treborg's bay falling out of sight.
−
: Through the night of the 31st, it begins to rain again.  This light rain ends an hour after sunrise, but be clear, night lasts about 4-5 hours this time of year (though it is dim much of the time, as the sun swings around low against the horizon).  You break camp amidst cool weather, a northeast gentle breeze under a sky with fluffy clouds.  First, you must climb again towards the low pass (where you pass by the other route you did not take, the narrower "choked" valley).  There's the place where you camped after your first day out of Treborg; and here is the pass, and there is the way towards the small village.  As you set up camp late on June 1st, after a whole day of walking (2 lbs. each for food, please), it begins to spatter rain again.  The breeze blows from the northeast now, which often heralds a new storm (but not always).  Just now, the sky is almost clear, except for some high thin clouds.
 
−
: Treborg is about four hours away.
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' We have the wagon/cart with us. I think I should have been more clear about that as we were setting off from Treborg. Is that a problem? I've marked the food off - how much was Embla able to forage?
+
Yet, as you reach a point about four miles from the village, you find the carcass of a cow laying slaughtered on an open rock.  As Embla has skill as a butcher, you can see at once that it's a domestic cow, not wild.  That while the principle meat has been cut out, by someone who doesn't know what they're doing, much of the meat has been left. Judging by the meat, this was done last afternoon or evening; and it looks as if someone cut away about a yard of the cow's hide, but left most of it behind.
  
−
'''Pandred''': Importantly, now that I'm ''certain'' it's a new day, here's some bottle hp Vafrandir. '''2'''.
+
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' Oh dear. We should get to the bottom of this - it's too close to home to ignore. Are there any tracks or traces left behind by whoever did this? Does the cow have a brand or something that would indicate an owner?
  
−
: '''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Much appreciated!
+
'''The DM:''' You see no brands, but the cow must come from near Treborg.  There is no other settlement or group of farms in this part of Ryfolke.  A look around will reveal that the skin or chunks of meat were apparently dragged over the ground away from the carcass.  You can't track, obviously, but this trail is obvious; anyone can see it.  It strikes you as odd that anyone would ''drag'' meat ... as though it were too big to carry properly.
  
−
'''The DM:''' No, it's not a problem.  There's no logical way you could drag the wagon as quickly across this terrain as I had you do, but that was ''my fault'' and certainly not yours.  I should have asked more explicitly.  We'll just say that, by chance, the path you took was very friendly to wagons.  Just to check - is it four wheels, or is it actually a cart with two wheels?
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Embla, shall we two follow the trail?
−
: Embla was able to forage 6 lbs.
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' It's two-wheeled.
+
'''Marcule:''' In
−
:'''The DM:''' Good.  I'll remember to call it a "cart" going forward.  Apologies.
 
−
:: Any other actions, or shall we continue into Treborg the next morning?
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'll remember "cart" as well. On to Treborg!
+
'''Marcule:'''"I agree this is to close to home we had better investigate before something nasty appears at our door."
  
−
'''The DM:''' presumedly, any other opinion can be retconned.  There are no encounters on this last four hours of the journey.  Throughout the night there is a slight drizzle, which clears, continues, clears, then continues again, finally becoming a good steady rain as you're breaking camp.  This continues steadily the whole way back, so that by the time you get yourselves into the hostel in Treborg, you're soaked to the bone.  Norway.
+
'''The DM:''' Action?
−
: It is the sixth day after leaving the village; the stakes have been laid out for your house already and the holes are being dug for the foundation - a series of holes into which will be poured mortar and broken stone, upon which the flooring will be laid.  This flooring will be flat pieces of carefully chosen stone, fitted as a pavement with mortar; flat, but not perfectly so, and a foot above the surrounding ground so dry throughout the year.  Even if the roof breaks, the floor will drain any water away.
 
  
−
'''The DM:''' so what's next?
+
'''Marcule:''' I do my best to follow the trail and proceed forward
  
−
== Father Arvin ==
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' We go with him. I know we can't speak for Pandred but can we assume she stays with the cart?
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Is there a chapel here in Treborg? Or someone who can properly bury Fjall?
 
  
−
'''The DM:''' Yes, there's a chapel and a graveyard.
+
'''The DM:''' In general, presume that players who are not here to be following along, but having a pee or some other such thing when the fight occurs.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' It's probably too late tonight, but in the morning, we'll go over and see what can be done about the burial.
+
'''The DM:''' the trail continues on for about three quarters of a mile before the dragged parts have become dried by the landscape; you haven't the skill to follow the trail that would still be there, but now can't be seen.  You guess there must be more than one, as occasionally there are as many as three blood trails.  Moreover, they're not trying to hide their passage, either.  They are making a straight line for a group of ledges straight ahead from where the trail stops, where the earth-and-rock plateau rises about 75 feet over a series of easily climbable steps.  You couldn't take the cart there, however.
  
−
'''The DM:''' It is never too late to knock on a priest's door with a dead body.  It is sort of one of the things surrounding the profession.  They'd want to begin managing the body as soon as possible. You wouldn't want to take the body to the hostel.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I don't wish to miss the action but I'm also loathe to leave the cart. You three go on ahead, carefully. Whistle if there's trouble.
  
−
'''Marcule''': I imagine some sort of cost for burial?
+
'''The DM:''' I'll have to wait for them to say they do.
  
−
'''The DM:''' (welcome back)  huh.  Things not included on the prices table.  The average per capita income for persons is usually around 9 g.p.  Let's say a 10% tithe of that: 14 s.p.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Of course!
  
−
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' I pay it. And I think a good rest is in order while Vaf and Willa recover.
+
'''Marcule:''' I encourage Vafrandir to keep his whistle close and make my way up the steps.
  
−
'''The DM:''' Father Arvin hears your story about how Fjall died, blesses each of you for bringing him back and asks who Fjall is and where he comes from.  The father explains that he will write a letter (yes, they have those) to his folks in Stavanger.  They may not want Fjall buried here.  He asks you which of you have been baptised.
+
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' I follow, readying my whistle.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Is that part of our backgrounds?
+
== The Footprint ==
 +
'''The DM:''' as you climb up into the ledges, you find that they're filled with small troughs and dips where water has gathered.  It hasn't rained in a couple of days, so most of these are empty, and only a few inches deep.  Yet you can also see that there's silt along the bottoms of these, where there are hoof prints.  Then, Marcule stops in surprise, when he sees the plain outline of a foot, not wearing a shoe or boot.  A foot about as large as Marcule's, and definitely not a gnome's foot.
  
−
'''The DM:''' It isn't.  I won't make a character adopt a religion, so the truth is none of you have.  But that is quite common at this time in history, so it is nothing to be ashamed of (many people simply never received the opportunity).  The question right now is whether or not you wish to admit it.  The father will probably offer to do so if you ask, but it will commit you to Lutheranism.
+
'''The DM:''' Plainly I lost everyone.  Please, if you're not going to check every 20 minutes, simply mark yourself "out." It's no big deal if you do, I won't judge. But I will know there's less reason for me to check every ten minutes.
−
: '''The DM:''' I feel I need to stress that the ostracism against those outside the faith was not as strong at this time as it is often perceived today among hard-core religionists.  That ostracism is largely part of the evangelistic movement; in 1650, Europe had just fought a 30 year war of religion in which somewhere between 8 and 30 million died, from irrational hatred of other people of other religions.  As such, forgive and embrace is much more the standard than is hate; even if you were truthful about your baptism, the community would probably see you as people who would eventually come around, rather than people who deserved to be cast out.
 
−
:: '''The DM:''' Beginning to feel I lost you guys.
 
−
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' I admit to not having been baptised and will happily accept one from the Father.
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I will accept a baptism as well. [''I was in a meeting that required more attention than usual, apologies'']
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'm waiting by the cart. Can I still see the rest of the party?
  
−
'''The DM:''' never apologize.  I just felt I had put you on the spot is all.  The father will waste no time with either of you, and will insist on performing the ritual at once.  Each will take about 5 minutes but it can only be done once in your lifetimes.  You feel enormously better, the pain that Vafrandir was experiencing from the leftover spider poison vanishes (though hit points are not restored) and you both will enjoy a +1 to all saving throws until 2 p.m. on the 9th of June (1 week).
+
'''The DM:''' They would probably be clustered together, peering down at something between the rocks.  It's 2 pm for me, so I'm Out. Better luck tomorrow.
  
−
'''The DM:''' By the way, it's not late at night. It was only 4 hours of travelling on the 2nd to reach Treborg.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' No problem. Just curious. Out.
  
−
'''Marcule:''' I will remain quiet and choose not to be baptized.
+
'''Marcule:''' "this foot scares me" What do the strides look like?.
−
:'''The DM:''' Understood.
 
  
−
'''[[Pandred]]''': When Fjall has been buried I'd like to ask Father Arvin if he's the only man of letters about, and if so if he could write a letter to my own family. They like news, and I can't receive gifts if they don't know where I am. If there's anything this derelict airship has shown me, it's that you've got to leave a forwarding address.
+
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' 14:04, 26 January 2021 (MST) My apologies. Out.
  
−
'''The DM:''' Father Arvin tells you that he can manage that nicely.  He was going to send along a nurse, Monica, to help care for Vafrandir, as Arvin has no healing spell to give.  She can aid Vafrandir's rest so that he will heal more quickly.  Monica can read and write as well, so she may take down your letter.  The father will inquire especially of Pandred if he is baptised, because he has not heard yet.
+
'''The DM:''' In.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' "Thank you, Father."
+
'''The DM:''' Out.
  
−
== Hostel ==
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' In.
  
−
'''The DM:''' I'm not sure if people are waiting for me to say something; retconning Pandred's response to the father, feel free to return to the hostel tonight, leaving Fjall in the father's care.  Is there anything else you'd like to deal with today, before sleeping.  It is too late for Vafrandir to get any rest today (I trust he hasn't been gaining h.p. since beginning to travel).
+
'''The DM:''' In.  Just you and me, Vafrandir.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I believe I'm at 4 from Pandred's salves.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Hm, I've worked myself into a bind, haven't I.
−
: If you'll let her, Monica will take you to her parent's house to rest in a proper bed, rather than a plank; and she'll dote on you.  According to the rules under [https://wiki.alexissmolensk.com/index.php/Aid_Rest_(sage_ability) Aid Rest], you'll heal at 2 levels higher than your present: so 4 h.p. per day from rest.  Pandred can come around there to give you a salve if she wants to. Are you willing?
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I am certainly willing!
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I've already committed to watching the cart, but I don't want to do nothing. Let me think.
  
−
'''The DM:''' Very well; she'll have you settled in at 3 p.m., so that each 6 hr. period after, Vafrandir will be up 1 h.p.  Monica is quite social; you find that she's well-liked both by workmen and washer women, and by the father and the town's governor, Mss. Hendriksen.
+
'''The DM:''' While we're here, explain to me a few things; why do you feel you need the cart; why are you loathe to leave it; and why not bring Oddsdrakken along to watch it?  Maybe we can work out a compromise.
  
−
'''The DM:''' At the hostel, Willa would like to approach the remaining party and explain that she'd like to take Fjall back to Stavanger.  She knows that's what his parents would want.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Odds is helping with the clearing of the land, if I recall correctly. I don't believe you would screw us by having something happen, but at the same time if someone is stealing food or hides (poorly), then it's possible this is either a trap or that there's others about from the same band who wouldn't say no to a free cart of food.
  
−
'''[[Pandred]]''': Acceptable to me. Are there any basic goods we can purchase here? A town market, etc? I'd hate to have to ask poor Willa to come back with groceries. Vafrandir, I will dole out another '''3''' from the bottle.
+
'''The DM:''' bit of an overthink there; it looks more like a few somebody's grabbed a cow from civilized land, cut away all they thought they could carry (the dragging on the ground suggests they're overloaded) and are on their way with it.  No attempt to hide their trail was made at all and it was as straight as an arrow. Doesn't look like a trap (and both assassins in the party would tell you so).
  
−
'''Willa''': "Well, actually Pandred ... I'd just as soon bow out completely.  With Fjall's mistake, I nearly died; now I'm thinking I'd rather go home, rethink my options and perhaps look up Bergthora and Lothar."
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Very good. In that case, I'll continue up towards the others, see the footprint, and observe that "It looks like a human or elf child's." We will proceed carefully up the steps.
  
−
'''The DM:''' Willa really is only here because she was Lothar's childhood friend, as were Fjall, Bergthora and Peter; and now two of those are dead.
+
'''The DM:''' You might think so at first glance, but then you'll notice that there are claws on the end of the toes and a point in the silt that might be a back claw.  Ledges; these require some minor scrambling, but nothing requiring a [https://wiki.alexissmolensk.com/index.php/Scrambling_(sage_ability) sage ability].
−
:'''—''' Also, Pandred, if you look up the list, you'll see that you already gave Vafrandir 2 points after breaking camp on your way back to Treborg, when you were four hours away from the village.  Today is the same day, June 2.
 
  
−
'''Pandred''': Jesus, again? Sorry, not trying to flub it. Also, damn. I thought Willa was Embla's man. That's a shame, but I can hardly begrudge them.
+
== Beyond the Footprint ==
−
:'''The DM:''' Heh heh, no worries.  You know, she might be Embla's '''wo'''man. It's been quite a while, I could be confused about that, but I think you're right, because Lothar survived the first round with the fire beetles and I don't think Willa was there.  So, I'll just change the story to say that Willa will miss you all, one way or another; she's been with you a long time.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Interesting. That raises the stakes a bit. We'll continue up the ledges. Are there any caves in the rock that we can see from here?
  
−
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' Willa is my follower, but I understand her leaving. I'll give her another 50gp as a thank you for her hard work and companionship.
+
'''The DM:''' Not immediately.  But this is a place you haven't ventured into yet; towards a mountain you've seen from a distance, but which is now beginning to dominate the eastern horizon.  Ahead is a low ridge, about half a mile from you, reached over a gentle slope of about one hundred feet up.  It looks to be the nearer edge of a mountain caldera; in modern parlance, where a glacier has pushed up the ridge in the last ice age, only to vanish now.  You're characters wouldn't understand that, but I need to describe this in a way that you can see.  It's called a "[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cirque cirque]."
−
: '''The DM:''' Excellent.  Sorry for confusing that.  She will give you a hug and make you promise to look her up in Stavanger when you get back there.  She just wants time to think.  Then Willa will set off to arrange for a journey back to Stavanger and to talk to the father about it.
 
  
−
'''The DM:''' I am being called out in the time of covid to do an errand.  I managed a rewrite of the [https://wiki.alexissmolensk.com/index.php/Hunting_(sage_ability) Hunting skill], so that's there for your convenience.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Understood. Is the trail still obvious?
−
'''—''' I also want to add that I'm going to take the week off after Halloween to work more intensely on some projects. It's only one week and I promise we'll be back in the groove right after.
 
  
−
== Continuing ==
+
'''The DM:''' No. You're continuing in the approximate direction the trail was following.
−
'''The DM:''' So where are we today, then?  What does the party want to do with the evening of June 2nd?
 
  
−
'''[[Pandred]]''': This evening? Nothing. I would like to know if it's possible to resupply in Treborg: when/if the market is open and what services are available. Assuming Embla can routinely forage around 6lbs then in an emergency I think we could hole up in our bivouac indefinitely out there, but I think I'd feel safer at least if we had reserves, since at 6lbs per day that means if we get in a fight she can feed exactly one of us. God forbid she get injured like poor Vafrandir, nevermind what happened to Fjall.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Very good. Continuing, at a careful or wary pace.
  
−
'''Marcule:''' once we have supplied should we return to the ship?
+
'''The DM:''' Climbing to the top of the lip, you have either Marcule or Embla move ahead to look over the lip and see what's in the cirque.  The whole circle is a square mile in size, about 640 acres. There's a small lake, or tarn, about an acre in size, of clear water; this tarn is in the center of the caldera, about 700 yards away.  A herd of small cows, no taller than Marcule, are scattered over the area to the right of the tarn.  These are called rothe; they dwell both above and below ground.  You can't see any camp, but there is a steady curl of smoke arising from beyond the rothe.  Two thirds of the cirque are contained in the arms of the mountain, a modest peak about 3,500 ft. high.  The other third makes the ridge you're presently crouched upon.
  
−
'''The DM:''' resupply: there is no market of any kind in Treborg; it is possible to buy fish here off the boats, if you were licensed to do so, which you're not — the fish must make its way to domestic and foreign markets and strangers who have no relationship with guilds or merchants cannot be trusted as wholesalers.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' What kind of ground cover is there?
  
−
'''The DM:''' foraging: if you look at the [https://wiki.alexissmolensk.com/index.php/Foraging_(sage_ability) foraging page] that I've created, Embla can reliably forage an average of 10½ lbs. of food until Sep 7th.
+
'''The DM:''' Much [https://www.123rf.com/photo_153818186_glacier-landscape-in-finse-norway.html like this].
  
−
'''The DM:''' holing up in the bivouac indefinitely: I don't know about that; you're north of 60° latitude, and though Norway stays relatively warm compared to other arctic territories in the winter by the shore, you'd be higher and it would be sure to be a lot colder.  Additionally, one gale will blast your constructed bivouac out of existence, leaving you potentially amidst a blizzard 14 hours from civilization with only the wrecked ship for shelter.  Something to think about.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' With little mountaineering ability among us, how does the descent into the caldera look? Could be tricky.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'd like to stay here until I'm mostly recuperated. I echo the concern about reserve supplies. What do the locals usually have for day to day supply?
+
'''The DM:''' the image gives the appearance of the ground, not your relative position. The "caldera" is below you; you're on the forward lip, looking down into it.  The 3rd image down on the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cirque cirque] link shows the "formation of cirque" ... you're standing on the "zone of abrasion" looking down into the depression (not technically a "caldera," since there's no volcano, but I'm struggling for terms); the mountain is across the resulting hole, which is not completely filled by the tarn.
−
:'''The DM:''' They fish and grow vegetables in gardens; they harvest apples and berries; they harvest fields of oats.  In early June, the apples are barely flowering on the trees; the oat fields have only just been planted; the berries aren't ripe; and none of this vegetation has been harvested since last October, so that the resident are living on the very edges of their stores, waiting for the days in late June and early July when they will be able to eat as many berries as they can stuff in their mouths.  In other words, they are hungry most of the time just now, trying to make the last of their food last.
 
  
−
'''[[Pandred]]''': I mostly meant "the foreseeable future" by indefinite. I don't think it's wise to hide in an abandoned boat through the winter, especially when we'd have a small house by then. I have the crossbow for hunting, so if we have need I can assist in that regard now.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Understood. I had in my mind that we were on the headwall. So it should be no problem to descend safely.
  
−
'''The DM:''' Understood.  However, until I hear clear statements from more than one player that say to the effect of, "I am ready so I sack in for the night," I must presume you're still talking and sitting up. I'm in no hurry; but you haven't done enough in physical actions at this time for me to push the clock forward, and I'm a stickler about that.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' May we stop here today? I don't want to get into something sticky without the rest of the party. Must be one of those weeks, I suppose.
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'm certainly ready to "sack in."
+
'''The DM:''' Apparently.  Have a look at the blog; I just posted something interesting.  Out.
  
−
'''Marcule:''' I'm good to call it a night
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' It's always interesting. Out.
  
−
== June 3rd ==
+
'''The DM:''' In.
−
'''The DM:''' Vafrandir receives the first 4 h.p. under Monica's care, learning that she is the governor's niece, that she is unattached and that she is "profoundly moved" at getting to know the first elf in her experience.  The remainder of the party sleeps on plank beds with blankets for padding, listening to the wind outside and being grateful not to be out in it.  By 9 o'clock the next morning, the sky being blue with a few clouds, a moderate wind blowing and absolutely pleasant weather that will let you wander about in your shirt-sleeves, all of the party feels rested.
 
−
:'''—''' There is nothing to forage here, it's been picked over, so you will have to walk an hour before you can begin searching; hunting is regulated in Treborg's environs, so you will have to walk two hours before you can begin hunting.  If anyone would like to take a hand at fishing, you can do that anywhere.
 
−
: '''[[Embla Strand]]''' In that case, I'll see if I can help our contractor build our house.
 
  
−
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I am glad for Monica's attention. Although I can't go, I think a hunt might be a good idea for a few of the able-bodied among us since we can spare a few days.
+
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' In. Hoping to wait a bit to get the others caught up.
  
−
'''[[Pandred]]''': I will try to hunt for burrowing animals. I'm concerned that without the ability to track, I can't really do much. If I don't down a larger animal in one go, I have no way of following it to finish it off.
+
'''[[Pandred]]''': In.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': I'd like to pop out my pocket telescope and see what there is to see. What's up with the smoke?
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Looking at it closely, it seems to be about the size of a campfire.  It is blocked, however, by several lumpy boulders and striations between you and it, so that all you can see is the smoke.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': How close is the nearest boulder? Could we approach from a nearby slope for a slightly higher vantage, even one of the lower sides?
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' To some degree, you can.  It would be an uncertain thing.  You are familiar with the [https://wiki.alexissmolensk.com/index.php/Stealth_(sage_ability) stealth rules]?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': So it looks like if we stay 25 hexes or so away while sneaking we should be okay, assuming whatever we're trying to observe has no stealth ability on it's own. You described the tarn as about 700 yards off, so unless I'm wrong any attempt at being sneaky is pretty much golden assuming something isn't already quite close. Could we climb the opposite end from the rothe and the smoke? Is that slope too steep, or would the sight-line still be obstructed by anything if we wanted to get, say, a fifty to a hundred feet more vertical?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'm fine with sneaking closer.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''' Out. Sorry, should be back soonish. I leave things in your capable hands Vafrandir.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Very well. We will approach stealthily as we are able.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' That would be my assessment as well, Pandred ... so long as nothing amid the rocks surprises you, and reveals your position.  I'm afraid I'm going to have to bail myself.  Something has come up and it's going to take up my time for the afternoon.  My apologies.  Out.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' No worries. Out.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' In.  Vafrandir, you feel fairly exposed out here on the rocky tundra.  The terrain, as pictured, was once a glacier, so there are stones and boulders everywhere; these give some shelter, but you cannot help noticing that as you move forward, the rothe are becoming more agitated ...
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:''' In
 +
'''Marcule:''' Am i with them?
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Yes, if you wish.
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:''' Last thing i want to do is unsettle a bunch of cattle. How am i doing for sneaking amongst the rocks given my size?
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:'''Out; back in 20 min (10:49)
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Have a look at the stealth chart I linked.  It is full daylight, so you will be noticed at 3d6 hexes (5 ft. per hex), with no adjustments, not for level, equipment or appearance.  However, you're already lacking armour; if you get rid of your pack, and anything you're carrying except for a dagger, you can improve that by -1 hex.  Essentially, let's say I roll a 10 on 3d6, and you improve that by -1.  This means that you'll be seen at 9 hexes from an observer you're trying to approach.  Incidentally, I notice you haven't actually rolled your sage abilities.  Need help with that?  Steal the tables from [[Embla Strand|Embla's]] page.
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:''' In
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:''' I will work on my sage abilities; Ok, i drop my pack and would like to keep my blow dart. how far are we currently for the smoke approximately?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' In.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' As close to the smoke as you say, since you're moving up.  You're about 15 hexes from the nearest rothe.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Perhaps we should simply wait for a bit to let the rothe become more adjusted to us.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Judging by that and the questions asked, I've presumed you're holding your ground just now.  The rothe will after a few minutes go back to eating the thin grass between the rocks.
 +
 
 +
−
 +
'''Marcule:''' "Vaf how close do you think we should get to this thing?"
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' "We don't know what "it" is, or really even if it's dangerous. Without knowing more it's impossible to say. So let's know more." After the rothe settle, we'll begin moving forward again as we're able.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' After this, you find you're able to move very closely around the edge of the flock, coming as close as 30 ft. from the nearest animals without them being especially disturbed.  You see they have horns with wicked points, but they seem not aggressive at all.  Steadily, you move towards what appears to be a shallow gulley that the glacier long ago gouged out of the solid rock of the depression, about 20 yards beyond.  The smoke is curling out of the bottom of it, still denying you the knowledge of who's there.  Vafrandir, because you haven't dropped your pack, it is slightly safer for Marcule to go ahead than for you to do so.
 +
 
 +
−
 +
'''Marcule:''' I will move forward trying not to leave Vafrandir to far behind. can i close to 60ft ish....?
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' 20 yards, 60 feet, gets you right to the edge.  You're small, you look over the side and into the gulley.  It is a low, flat gulley about 8 combat hexes wide.  There you see a small encampment, six tents, some brush that's been gathered around the edges as a defense, with stakes hammered into crevices between the rocks to support meat that's hanging there.  Even though there are dozens of rothe, these are plainly cowmeat.  There's a fire, and stools around it, and six visible goblins sitting on the stools talking to each other.
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:'''I would like to meet back with Vafrandir and explain what i have seen "six goblins might be to much for us"
 +
 
 +
== Discussing Goblins ==
 +
'''The DM:''' We'll assume Vafrandir and Marcule withdraw to a safe distance to talk about what's been seen.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' [OOC, too much for the 2 of us, perhaps not for all 4] "They're clearly rustling Treborg's cattle. We could either try and handle them ourselves [with a full party], negotiate with them - why do they need cattle if they have the rothe - or return with help from Treborg."
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:''' I think we can take them as a full party. "If we go back to Treborg it will be to much trouble to find them again. i doubt it would be an option to negotiate."
 +
 
 +
 
 +
'''Marcule:'''Out
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I agree. Hopefully we will be at full strength soon. Out
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Me too, then.  Hope the others read this and get together.  Out.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' In.  Just on the phone with the govt.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': In. Waiting on at least one other.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' In. Pandred, what do you make of the situation?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': Are we going to parley? If not I can take six unleveled goblins, assuming that's what we have here. One more would guarantee the win, but even with two it's doable.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Marcule is not a fan of parley. But I would vote for it, I think. If they will make restitution for the cow and live in peace here, then very good. And if it comes to blows, then so it does.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': Then I'm on board. How wide is the gully? Could we block either end meaningfully, are there any natural choke points, etc? If it comes to blows, I don't want to get surrounded too quickly.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Not to mention, there could be more than 6. Six is simply all we see.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' The bottom of the gulley is 8 hexes wide; from rim to rim, about 20 hexes.  So, 12 hexes to the bottom, which cannot be quickly run down because it is broken, rocky ground.  Movement normal for those 12 hexes.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Embla Strand]]''' In. I think we can do this, even if there are a few more.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' How do you wish to approach this?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': Vafrandir, you take the lead. Em and I flanking. I can't think of a good reason to get any closer than 20 hexes, as it doesn't seem like they have bows. So we stay on the edge of the gully. Vafrandir takes point maybe five more hexes in so we look very slightly less murderous, and we see what pans out. Good with everyone?
 +
 
 +
== Parley with Goblins ==
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' Very good. I will approach the edge of the gully, and when I am in eyesight I will put my hands up and call out. "Hello there! We come to talk!"
 +
 
 +
:: '''[[Embla Strand]]''' I agree. I sneak to the flank, getting no closer than 20 hexes.
 +
 
 +
:: '''[[Pandred]]''' Same. Although I won't bother sneaking. Let the Gobs know he's not alone.
 +
 
 +
[[File:Goblins near Treborg.jpg|right|420px]]
 +
'''The DM:''' I've made a map, added three tents, I'll post it in a few minutes.  The goblins react with great surprise, having no idea that you're here.  They didn't answer.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'll move one hex closer and repeat my question. "You've taken something from the settlement nearby. We're here to discuss it peaceably."
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' That'll make them all drag out their weapons.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''': Which are? I'll run as quickly down the slope as the scree will allow the second two of them move toward Vafrandir. I'll stay put if it's just one.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' hold a moment; no one has moved; they look ready to defend themselves, not attack.  See map; Vafrandir is at the top edge of the gulley, as depicted.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Tuesday.  In.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' In. What weapons do they have?
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' Apparently, spears.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I'll slowly draw my sword and place it on the ground.
 +
 
 +
'''The DM:''' They hold their spears but appear to relax a little.  One will call out, "Go away, elf!"
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' "We need to talk about the cow you took! You can talk with us peaceably or you can hope to deal with a much less understanding posse later."
 +
 
 +
'''Goblin:''' Let them come!  They'll learn it's not so easy on the mountain!"
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' I gesture around. "And what of the rothe? Do you not have enough for yourself here? Why only take a small part of a good animal?"
 +
 
 +
'''White-haired goblin:''' THAT'S not our food!"
 +
 
 +
'''First goblin:''' What do you know about it, demi-human?"
 +
 
 +
'''[[Pandred]]''' In.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Vafrandir]]:''' "I know you've taken something that doesn't belong to you, and that your actions threaten not only our survival but yours."

Revision as of 11:33, 2 February 2021

The DM: The morning of the 25th of June is a beautiful, clear, pleasant day, as nice as you might desire for this part of the world. The sun is shining, the ground is dry and the wind is a mere 2 knots out of the northwest. There are a few small puffy clouds, but no sign of rain at all. The air is clear and the various denizens along the cart path to the wilderness are beginning to recognize you, nodding as you pass. You climb up the familiar track off the road, the cart wheels banging over the rocks as you take the best route, with Treborg's bay falling out of sight.

Yet, as you reach a point about four miles from the village, you find the carcass of a cow laying slaughtered on an open rock. As Embla has skill as a butcher, you can see at once that it's a domestic cow, not wild. That while the principle meat has been cut out, by someone who doesn't know what they're doing, much of the meat has been left. Judging by the meat, this was done last afternoon or evening; and it looks as if someone cut away about a yard of the cow's hide, but left most of it behind.

Embla Strand Oh dear. We should get to the bottom of this - it's too close to home to ignore. Are there any tracks or traces left behind by whoever did this? Does the cow have a brand or something that would indicate an owner?

The DM: You see no brands, but the cow must come from near Treborg. There is no other settlement or group of farms in this part of Ryfolke. A look around will reveal that the skin or chunks of meat were apparently dragged over the ground away from the carcass. You can't track, obviously, but this trail is obvious; anyone can see it. It strikes you as odd that anyone would drag meat ... as though it were too big to carry properly.

Vafrandir: Embla, shall we two follow the trail?

Marcule: In

Marcule:"I agree this is to close to home we had better investigate before something nasty appears at our door."

The DM: Action?

Marcule: I do my best to follow the trail and proceed forward

Vafrandir: We go with him. I know we can't speak for Pandred but can we assume she stays with the cart?

The DM: In general, presume that players who are not here to be following along, but having a pee or some other such thing when the fight occurs.

The DM: the trail continues on for about three quarters of a mile before the dragged parts have become dried by the landscape; you haven't the skill to follow the trail that would still be there, but now can't be seen. You guess there must be more than one, as occasionally there are as many as three blood trails. Moreover, they're not trying to hide their passage, either. They are making a straight line for a group of ledges straight ahead from where the trail stops, where the earth-and-rock plateau rises about 75 feet over a series of easily climbable steps. You couldn't take the cart there, however.

Vafrandir: I don't wish to miss the action but I'm also loathe to leave the cart. You three go on ahead, carefully. Whistle if there's trouble.

The DM: I'll have to wait for them to say they do.

Vafrandir: Of course!

Marcule: I encourage Vafrandir to keep his whistle close and make my way up the steps.

Embla Strand I follow, readying my whistle.

The Footprint

The DM: as you climb up into the ledges, you find that they're filled with small troughs and dips where water has gathered. It hasn't rained in a couple of days, so most of these are empty, and only a few inches deep. Yet you can also see that there's silt along the bottoms of these, where there are hoof prints. Then, Marcule stops in surprise, when he sees the plain outline of a foot, not wearing a shoe or boot. A foot about as large as Marcule's, and definitely not a gnome's foot.

The DM: Plainly I lost everyone. Please, if you're not going to check every 20 minutes, simply mark yourself "out." It's no big deal if you do, I won't judge. But I will know there's less reason for me to check every ten minutes.

Vafrandir: I'm waiting by the cart. Can I still see the rest of the party?

The DM: They would probably be clustered together, peering down at something between the rocks. It's 2 pm for me, so I'm Out. Better luck tomorrow.

Vafrandir: No problem. Just curious. Out.

Marcule: "this foot scares me" What do the strides look like?.

Embla Strand 14:04, 26 January 2021 (MST) My apologies. Out.

The DM: In.

The DM: Out.

Vafrandir: In.

The DM: In. Just you and me, Vafrandir.

Vafrandir: Hm, I've worked myself into a bind, haven't I.

Vafrandir: I've already committed to watching the cart, but I don't want to do nothing. Let me think.

The DM: While we're here, explain to me a few things; why do you feel you need the cart; why are you loathe to leave it; and why not bring Oddsdrakken along to watch it? Maybe we can work out a compromise.

Vafrandir: Odds is helping with the clearing of the land, if I recall correctly. I don't believe you would screw us by having something happen, but at the same time if someone is stealing food or hides (poorly), then it's possible this is either a trap or that there's others about from the same band who wouldn't say no to a free cart of food.

The DM: bit of an overthink there; it looks more like a few somebody's grabbed a cow from civilized land, cut away all they thought they could carry (the dragging on the ground suggests they're overloaded) and are on their way with it. No attempt to hide their trail was made at all and it was as straight as an arrow. Doesn't look like a trap (and both assassins in the party would tell you so).

Vafrandir: Very good. In that case, I'll continue up towards the others, see the footprint, and observe that "It looks like a human or elf child's." We will proceed carefully up the steps.

The DM: You might think so at first glance, but then you'll notice that there are claws on the end of the toes and a point in the silt that might be a back claw. Ledges; these require some minor scrambling, but nothing requiring a sage ability.

Beyond the Footprint

Vafrandir: Interesting. That raises the stakes a bit. We'll continue up the ledges. Are there any caves in the rock that we can see from here?

The DM: Not immediately. But this is a place you haven't ventured into yet; towards a mountain you've seen from a distance, but which is now beginning to dominate the eastern horizon. Ahead is a low ridge, about half a mile from you, reached over a gentle slope of about one hundred feet up. It looks to be the nearer edge of a mountain caldera; in modern parlance, where a glacier has pushed up the ridge in the last ice age, only to vanish now. You're characters wouldn't understand that, but I need to describe this in a way that you can see. It's called a "cirque."

Vafrandir: Understood. Is the trail still obvious?

The DM: No. You're continuing in the approximate direction the trail was following.

Vafrandir: Very good. Continuing, at a careful or wary pace.

The DM: Climbing to the top of the lip, you have either Marcule or Embla move ahead to look over the lip and see what's in the cirque. The whole circle is a square mile in size, about 640 acres. There's a small lake, or tarn, about an acre in size, of clear water; this tarn is in the center of the caldera, about 700 yards away. A herd of small cows, no taller than Marcule, are scattered over the area to the right of the tarn. These are called rothe; they dwell both above and below ground. You can't see any camp, but there is a steady curl of smoke arising from beyond the rothe. Two thirds of the cirque are contained in the arms of the mountain, a modest peak about 3,500 ft. high. The other third makes the ridge you're presently crouched upon.

Vafrandir: What kind of ground cover is there?

The DM: Much like this.

Vafrandir: With little mountaineering ability among us, how does the descent into the caldera look? Could be tricky.

The DM: the image gives the appearance of the ground, not your relative position. The "caldera" is below you; you're on the forward lip, looking down into it. The 3rd image down on the cirque link shows the "formation of cirque" ... you're standing on the "zone of abrasion" looking down into the depression (not technically a "caldera," since there's no volcano, but I'm struggling for terms); the mountain is across the resulting hole, which is not completely filled by the tarn.

Vafrandir: Understood. I had in my mind that we were on the headwall. So it should be no problem to descend safely.

Vafrandir: May we stop here today? I don't want to get into something sticky without the rest of the party. Must be one of those weeks, I suppose.

The DM: Apparently. Have a look at the blog; I just posted something interesting. Out.

Vafrandir: It's always interesting. Out.

The DM: In.

Vafrandir: In. Hoping to wait a bit to get the others caught up.

Pandred: In.

Pandred: I'd like to pop out my pocket telescope and see what there is to see. What's up with the smoke?

The DM: Looking at it closely, it seems to be about the size of a campfire. It is blocked, however, by several lumpy boulders and striations between you and it, so that all you can see is the smoke.

Pandred: How close is the nearest boulder? Could we approach from a nearby slope for a slightly higher vantage, even one of the lower sides?

The DM: To some degree, you can. It would be an uncertain thing. You are familiar with the stealth rules?

Pandred: So it looks like if we stay 25 hexes or so away while sneaking we should be okay, assuming whatever we're trying to observe has no stealth ability on it's own. You described the tarn as about 700 yards off, so unless I'm wrong any attempt at being sneaky is pretty much golden assuming something isn't already quite close. Could we climb the opposite end from the rothe and the smoke? Is that slope too steep, or would the sight-line still be obstructed by anything if we wanted to get, say, a fifty to a hundred feet more vertical?

Vafrandir: I'm fine with sneaking closer.

Pandred Out. Sorry, should be back soonish. I leave things in your capable hands Vafrandir.

Vafrandir: Very well. We will approach stealthily as we are able.

The DM: That would be my assessment as well, Pandred ... so long as nothing amid the rocks surprises you, and reveals your position. I'm afraid I'm going to have to bail myself. Something has come up and it's going to take up my time for the afternoon. My apologies. Out.

Vafrandir: No worries. Out.

The DM: In. Vafrandir, you feel fairly exposed out here on the rocky tundra. The terrain, as pictured, was once a glacier, so there are stones and boulders everywhere; these give some shelter, but you cannot help noticing that as you move forward, the rothe are becoming more agitated ...

Marcule: In Marcule: Am i with them?

The DM: Yes, if you wish.

Marcule: Last thing i want to do is unsettle a bunch of cattle. How am i doing for sneaking amongst the rocks given my size?

Marcule:Out; back in 20 min (10:49)

The DM: Have a look at the stealth chart I linked. It is full daylight, so you will be noticed at 3d6 hexes (5 ft. per hex), with no adjustments, not for level, equipment or appearance. However, you're already lacking armour; if you get rid of your pack, and anything you're carrying except for a dagger, you can improve that by -1 hex. Essentially, let's say I roll a 10 on 3d6, and you improve that by -1. This means that you'll be seen at 9 hexes from an observer you're trying to approach. Incidentally, I notice you haven't actually rolled your sage abilities. Need help with that? Steal the tables from Embla's page.

Marcule: In

Marcule: I will work on my sage abilities; Ok, i drop my pack and would like to keep my blow dart. how far are we currently for the smoke approximately?

Vafrandir: In.

The DM: As close to the smoke as you say, since you're moving up. You're about 15 hexes from the nearest rothe.

Vafrandir: Perhaps we should simply wait for a bit to let the rothe become more adjusted to us.

The DM: Judging by that and the questions asked, I've presumed you're holding your ground just now. The rothe will after a few minutes go back to eating the thin grass between the rocks.

− Marcule: "Vaf how close do you think we should get to this thing?"

Vafrandir: "We don't know what "it" is, or really even if it's dangerous. Without knowing more it's impossible to say. So let's know more." After the rothe settle, we'll begin moving forward again as we're able.

The DM: After this, you find you're able to move very closely around the edge of the flock, coming as close as 30 ft. from the nearest animals without them being especially disturbed. You see they have horns with wicked points, but they seem not aggressive at all. Steadily, you move towards what appears to be a shallow gulley that the glacier long ago gouged out of the solid rock of the depression, about 20 yards beyond. The smoke is curling out of the bottom of it, still denying you the knowledge of who's there. Vafrandir, because you haven't dropped your pack, it is slightly safer for Marcule to go ahead than for you to do so.

− Marcule: I will move forward trying not to leave Vafrandir to far behind. can i close to 60ft ish....?

The DM: 20 yards, 60 feet, gets you right to the edge. You're small, you look over the side and into the gulley. It is a low, flat gulley about 8 combat hexes wide. There you see a small encampment, six tents, some brush that's been gathered around the edges as a defense, with stakes hammered into crevices between the rocks to support meat that's hanging there. Even though there are dozens of rothe, these are plainly cowmeat. There's a fire, and stools around it, and six visible goblins sitting on the stools talking to each other.

Marcule:I would like to meet back with Vafrandir and explain what i have seen "six goblins might be to much for us"

Discussing Goblins

The DM: We'll assume Vafrandir and Marcule withdraw to a safe distance to talk about what's been seen.

Vafrandir: [OOC, too much for the 2 of us, perhaps not for all 4] "They're clearly rustling Treborg's cattle. We could either try and handle them ourselves [with a full party], negotiate with them - why do they need cattle if they have the rothe - or return with help from Treborg."

Marcule: I think we can take them as a full party. "If we go back to Treborg it will be to much trouble to find them again. i doubt it would be an option to negotiate."


Marcule:Out

Vafrandir: I agree. Hopefully we will be at full strength soon. Out

The DM: Me too, then. Hope the others read this and get together. Out.

The DM: In. Just on the phone with the govt.

Pandred: In. Waiting on at least one other.

Vafrandir: In. Pandred, what do you make of the situation?

Pandred: Are we going to parley? If not I can take six unleveled goblins, assuming that's what we have here. One more would guarantee the win, but even with two it's doable.

Vafrandir: Marcule is not a fan of parley. But I would vote for it, I think. If they will make restitution for the cow and live in peace here, then very good. And if it comes to blows, then so it does.

Pandred: Then I'm on board. How wide is the gully? Could we block either end meaningfully, are there any natural choke points, etc? If it comes to blows, I don't want to get surrounded too quickly.

Vafrandir: Not to mention, there could be more than 6. Six is simply all we see.

The DM: The bottom of the gulley is 8 hexes wide; from rim to rim, about 20 hexes. So, 12 hexes to the bottom, which cannot be quickly run down because it is broken, rocky ground. Movement normal for those 12 hexes.

Embla Strand In. I think we can do this, even if there are a few more.

The DM: How do you wish to approach this?

Pandred: Vafrandir, you take the lead. Em and I flanking. I can't think of a good reason to get any closer than 20 hexes, as it doesn't seem like they have bows. So we stay on the edge of the gully. Vafrandir takes point maybe five more hexes in so we look very slightly less murderous, and we see what pans out. Good with everyone?

Parley with Goblins

Vafrandir: Very good. I will approach the edge of the gully, and when I am in eyesight I will put my hands up and call out. "Hello there! We come to talk!"

Embla Strand I agree. I sneak to the flank, getting no closer than 20 hexes.
Pandred Same. Although I won't bother sneaking. Let the Gobs know he's not alone.
Goblins near Treborg.jpg

The DM: I've made a map, added three tents, I'll post it in a few minutes. The goblins react with great surprise, having no idea that you're here. They didn't answer.

Vafrandir: I'll move one hex closer and repeat my question. "You've taken something from the settlement nearby. We're here to discuss it peaceably."

The DM: That'll make them all drag out their weapons.

Pandred: Which are? I'll run as quickly down the slope as the scree will allow the second two of them move toward Vafrandir. I'll stay put if it's just one.

The DM: hold a moment; no one has moved; they look ready to defend themselves, not attack. See map; Vafrandir is at the top edge of the gulley, as depicted.

The DM: Tuesday. In.

Vafrandir: In. What weapons do they have?

The DM: Apparently, spears.

Vafrandir: I'll slowly draw my sword and place it on the ground.

The DM: They hold their spears but appear to relax a little. One will call out, "Go away, elf!"

Vafrandir: "We need to talk about the cow you took! You can talk with us peaceably or you can hope to deal with a much less understanding posse later."

Goblin: Let them come! They'll learn it's not so easy on the mountain!"

Vafrandir: I gesture around. "And what of the rothe? Do you not have enough for yourself here? Why only take a small part of a good animal?"

White-haired goblin: THAT'S not our food!"

First goblin: What do you know about it, demi-human?"

Pandred In.

Vafrandir: "I know you've taken something that doesn't belong to you, and that your actions threaten not only our survival but yours."

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