CWater
It begins no different than any other dream. Perhaps a hunt, or a peaceful stroll in the woods, in any case, very ordinary. But suddenly it's interrupted, as you notice something strange. A strong violet light that just reaches the corner of your eye. You turn, and see a moon glowing with this unnatural colour. And it is approaching, growing bigger and the glow changing into a blaze, darkening first to purple, then red.

Perhaps you'd like to run away now. But the moon is fast and you pass right through it when it hits. For a moment, everything is red, until you smell...smoke. Looking up, you see flames decorating trees. The forest is on fire. But before you have even time to fear, a strong wind blows, and the landscape changes. You are in a village, but it is empty, abandoned. You look, but find no one. Then you sense the wind again and the scene changes to another village, and this time it is not empty. Or, of the living it is. You walk to one of the corpses that carry multiple wounds. Under your gaze, it blackens and crumbles to ash. Now you stand on a gray field. You can notice signs that it was maybe once cultivated, but now the ground is cracked and dry. The scene changes again and you see more sites with similiar fates. Burned. Empty. Dead. Barren.*

Finally, it stops and you are standing on the field again. This time, there is also a woman. She stares at you with eyes big, head tilted on one side. Her black hair is messy and her long robe reaches the ash on the ground.   ”This will happen”  , she says in a hoarse voice that somehow still thunders through the field,   ”It should... not happen.”  

And at this, you wake up. Looking around you can feel relieved, that however real it felt, it was just a dream. Troublesome as it was, perhaps you discuss it with someone, or maybe you prefer to keep it to yourself. But on the following night, the dream returns.

  ”This really... should not happen”  , the woman says at the end, before everything fades to black. This time however you don't wake up straight away. After a confusing moment in nothingness, you hear another voice. This one is not so overwhelming, but it speaks more clearly.
 ”Didn't like the sight of that, did you? A warning has been given and it would be best to heed it. I'll show you the way.” 

You stumble out of the darkness into what seems to be your own tribe's current settlement. No calamity has taken place, but everything is still and silent, as if the time had stopped.  ”Now pay attention”,  you hear the previous voice say and you get a glimpse of a shadowy figure. And then, you are suddenly dragged through the landscape. Fast, but not so much that you couldn't notice the landmarks, the voice even pointing out a few of them. Finally you arrive at a clearing, where grows a crooked tree accompanied by a strangely formed rock.
 ”If those dreams upset you as much as they did me, which was a lot, come here on the day before the largest moon** is full. There will be others too, try not to stab them at first sight. I'll send a guide to lead you the rest of the way.” 

----
This happened a fortnight ago. The past few days you have spent travelling to the place shown in the dream. The exact amount of days varies, Kanok has made the longest journey, over a week. But now, you all approach the site and tonight, Tietra will be full.

*You may choose yourself what it looked like when you passed through the image of your character's village.
**This world has three moons, the largest of them is commonly known as Tietra. The other two are the slightly red Lieska, and Mjoler, which has a very short cycle. Clans may have their own names for them too.

 
 Spoiler 

And now, I will stop dictating what your characters have done, from now on their actions are up to you. Please describe your arrival and perhaps some first impressions. You are also free to chat. 😉
 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler: dream/tribe stuff 
During the dream, Aidan cries out in anguish as he sees his tribe, his family, burned and butchered.
He wakes up, screaming. He tells one of the elders of his dream, and they appear to be worried, afraid it could be prophetic, as such things are known to happen.

And then it happens again the next night. But this one is different. He is told to go somewhere, and decides that, for the good of his tribe, he must go.
He talks to the same elder as before, who agrees with the decision. However, the elder also decides that, to help Aidan on his way, the local spell caster would enchant his armour and bow. The tribe, as a whole, could not allow Aidan to fail, for their own lives depended on him.
 

 
 Spoiler: journey stuff 
Aidan begins the long journey to the location the mysterious voice spoke of. He makes his way there, finding his food and water along the way.
 


The first to arrive, Aidan sets up a campsite, and an improvised shelter, and waits for the full moon.

 
 Spoiler 
Want me to make survival check rolls for setting up shelter?
 
Athedia
Asha had been preparing for her aging journey when the dreams arrived.  She brushed the first off as nerves, her tribe was strong and the ancestors would protect them.  She continued her preparations and prayed on the old burial tombs but paid the dream no heed.

The second night was another story.  Seeing her mother frozen in the process of drawing a circle.  Seeing the children mid toss of a pebble as they chased off the little hens that nested near the village.  Seeing all those she loved and wished to protect frozen in their life, she was scared.

She had needed a place to start her journey, the tree would be no better or worse than any other place.  The morning after the dream she gathered up her final items.  Her father's spear was the most important. Called Giant's Fear it had passed down through the generations tribal lore saying it had brought down the giant who demanded tribute from them.  The other items were smaller, but still rare, trinkets of use that were given to her only because of the nature of her journey.

She visited the burial mounds one last time with her family.  Climbing the worn path up the side she pulled out the chalk from her pouch and drew the complicated pattern she had grown familiar with.   "Hello Malphas."   The flutter of wings signaled his arrival.   "My journey starts today, I think your doves will be useful." 
 
 Spoiler 
Binding Check vs DC 15
 (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 

EDIT: Going shopping will post when I get back.  I guess I will fall in love with EVERYONE today
 

 "I thought you would."   Malphas never spoke much, his voice raspy.  Asha didn't understand why he was covered with feathers but the story went that he had fallen in love with a goddess in the form of a dove and this was her husbands punishment upon him.  The gods were dead now, though some lesser tribes were rumored to still worship them.

Still it was worrisome that he knew she was going to call on his help today.  He always had a little more control when he could prepare.  And he did indeed.  While she could usually prevent the marks from appearing this day she saw her mothers pointed look at her teeth.

Only one more person would see her today.  She knelt in from of the leader of the tribe as he applied the paste that marked her as a child undergoing a trial.  A line across the face covering the eyes and three fingers of paste over her lips, the tallest of the fingers reaching under her nose.  These would allow the ancestors to guild her eyes to the right sites and would let her pleas for help reach their ears away from her people.  The paste stained her skin and she felt a slight burning as it worked its way in.  The marks would remain until she returned and was recognized as an adult.

Bowing her head she left silently, weapons and supplies strapped to her back.  The dove that was her eyes flew ahead of her finding the tree she had been told to go to.  It was only a two day journey by foot.

 
 Spoiler 
She is keeping Malphas bound, but I will reroll on the OoC to see if he still has influence.
 


She kept her connection with Malphas, eventually managing to overcome his will and regain full control of her reactions.  And not too soon, she still remembered the time she had fallen head over heels for the newest hunter after he gave her spear throwing lessons when Malphas had been bound.  His wife had been unhappy to say the least.

Spotting the tree in the distance she snuck closer, turning invisible as she neared.  There was a man there, still a child it appeared or one unable to become an adult.  She gripped Fear in her in hand, keeping it at the smallest size.  Appearing behind the man she held the spear to his throat.   "Are you the one that sent that dream?" 
Etherion
While Aidan is sitting down, enjoying his meal, he hears a twig snap behind him.

Without turning around, he addresses the newcomer
 Hello, take a seat if you'd like. There's some roast venison on the spit, help yourself. If you wish me harm, leave now while you can. 
 
 Spoiler 
In case more people show up, let's see how many people he can feed today:
 (1d20+10)[ 15 ] 
 
Athedia
 "Did you send it?"   She lowered the spear slightly but kept it pointed at him.  She wouldn't eat his food, Malphas had granted her some knowledge of the plants that could be used to kill and according to him food was an easy way to do that.

Circling around she faced him, carefully lowering her items with one hand and sitting on her heels across the fire from him.  Her free hand deftly reached in the pouch that had feed Ratim across three winters until he had found his stolen horse.
Etherion
 I did not. 

Aidan takes another bite, apparently at complete ease. However, he shifts in his seat a little, moving his larger axe into a more easily accessible position.

 You'll likely need to wait another ten or so to to find out who did. In the meantime, you might want to put your stick away. Assuming, of course, that you don't want a fight. 
Athedia
Asha kept her hand on the spear, but the point was now toward the sky instead of aimed at Aidan.   "Name is Asha."   A dove fluttered down from the nearby tree and landed on her shoulder as she spoke.  She decided to gauge this man's reaction as she let Malphas display the bond.  Her teeth and tongue turned as dark as the night as she spoke.   "So you had the dream as well?" 
Etherion
 Aidan. 

When he sees the odd colour of her mouth, he arches an eyebrow, but otherwise doesn't react.

 I did. Although I think I saw more than you. I do recall something about not stabbing those you meet here. 

After a moment he asks
 The bird yours? 
Athedia
 "Mine and not mine.  I see through his eyes, hear through his ears but he will be gone tomorrow and the day after."   She stroked the birds feathers and felt Malphas relish in the feeling.  He always loved it when she felt things, he lacked the ability now.   'It said not to stab at first sight.  I had seen you long before arriving, or don't you watch the skys?" 
Etherion
 I generally don't consider seemingly ordinary birds noteworthy. 
Athedia
 "A lone dove in an open sky?  It is a foolish bird that travels so." 
Etherion
 And why do you care so much if I saw your bird?  
Athedia
 "You asked about him.  What is that by the way?"   Asha gestured to the meat cooking over the fire.
Etherion
 As I said earlier, venison. Feel free to try some. 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok withstood his dreams with typical stoicism.  He cared more that the forests were burning than anything, and was curious why  he  was receiving these dreams.  After the second dream, he consulted his tribe's shaman, who advised Kanok to do as the dream-speaker wished, and so he did.

His journey south took him outside of the taiga within a couple days; he had never gone so far in one direction before.  The last night he slept in the forest, the dream showed him the Dragon Clan's current camp; a circular area of hide tents outside of a cave at the base of a small cliff; which was deserted.  There were only torn tents and scattered bones, and not the bones of animals.  He woke up that day at dawn, as usual, with his wolfhound Fang curled up beside him.  He did not want that fiery moon to take away all that he knew.

When he first came to the edge of the great forest and looked out over the grasslands, which extended all the way to where the sky fell, he felt fear.  He knew that his people had once gone outside the forest in order to hunt, but that was long ago; many generations according to the speakers.  He was sure they were speaking big words about the size of this open area, but they were not.  How could one avoid the sky dragons with nowhere to hide?  He saw large beasts ambling through the grass far in the distance, shaggy beasts with wide curving horns and humped backs; which he had seen drawn on the cave walls of his home, but had never seen with his own eyes.  He took his first steps out of the forest and knew that his journey was going to be great, but also dangerous.  He grinned.

XxXxX

A week passed that seemed like a year.  Seeing many things that he never had before, it was the greatest week of his life, though he missed the forest.  He never knew the sky was so  big , nor that the mountains were so far away; he could walk towards them all day and they would not move.  He had tasted many new meats, and seen herds of beasts in such great number they blocked out sight of the land for miles; he had walked in their path in the opposite direction, as the grass they trampled was now flat and broken.

Now, he stood on a hill and saw the tree and rock that the dreams had led him to.  Two figures stood there, on opposite sides of a fire.  They looked strange to him; they were thin, but tall, and had little fur.  The dream-speaker said that they were not to be harmed, but Kanok kept his shield and spear ready, as always, just in case.

He instinctively approached the camp from the other side of the rock and tree.  He was not ready to meet strangers, but it had to be done.  Fang was interested in these new ones, he had already picked up their scent and was focused in their direction, head raised and ears perked.  Kanok was amused.

A few moments later, he walked around the tree, not sure of what was to come.
MrE
Taesha prepared herself to leave quickly, and told only her family of her mission before she stepped out into the cold night air and left the Dhakan tribe. They would not miss her, not in their hearts, and she knew now that she had a duty. Something was coming.

The journey gave her time to think, and strangely, memories of her mother surfaced, memories long since suppressed. If she had still been with the tribe she would most likely have been called. But she had betrayed them, and now was gone.

Taesha slept in a cave that first night, and when she woke in the morning she spent an hour listening to the trees and connecting with the land. Then, when she was ready, she drew upon first the power of the animals and shaped sharp boots onto her feet that caused her fingers to elongate into claws. Then she called upon the fickle air and bound a translucent blue shirt over her arm. Finally she called upon the strength of her family and her ancestors, and a small blue wisp hovered around her shoulders, its light feeding her strength slowly.

 
 Spoiler 
Shape Soulmelds: Landshark boots (Chakra bind - Totem), Blink Shirt, and Totem Avatar
 


As she approached the tree, she fed a little of her power to her shirt, whilst holding the rest in her claws so that glowed faintly. She would be ready to flash away or fight if necessary. But nearing the meeting place, she heard voices, low but intense and saw another warrior rounding a large rock into the clearing.

She stepped forward, and then used her shirt to carry her the last 10 feet into the clearing, vanishing from one point and reappearing with a flicker amongst the others. She crouched wearily, appraising her new companions.
CWater
As Kanok walks around the tree, he hears a small squeal followed by a thump.
 " A-aah... " 
On the ground lies a halfling girl on her back, staring at the huge warrior with wide eyes. Apparently she had been hiding behind said tree, her strange cloak masking her presence. But she had been listening to the humans' conversation so intently, that she hadn't notice the neanderthal at all, before he was right next to her. Now she is visible to all.

 
 Spoiler 
Meet  Stiira , the hopefully-not-going-to-annoy-the-hell-out-of-you DMPC. (Her item list is not entirely finished yet.)
 
Seharvepernfan
Surprised, Kanok peers down at the ...very small person on the ground in front of him.  How had he missed her?  Fang sniffs her with obvious confusion, while Kanok reaches down and lifts her up to her feet.  Ah, her cloak looks like the grass under their feet, and ....changes?  Kanok stares at it for a moment, inquisitively.  Then, he looks to her with a face devoid of compassion,  "Are you hurt?" 
CWater
Stiira gasps and tries to back away when the huge man reaches an arm towards her, but he only lifts her up. She looks at him with confusion on her face, shaking a little.  "..N-no",  she stutters and throws a worried look at Fang. The girl looks like she'd want to run away, but is afraid the dog might charge after her.
Athedia
Asha bolted upright at the arrival of the new people, Fear growing longer in her hand.  As she saw they looked as tired as the man across the fire she relaxed a little.  Still she kept up her guard, these were odd looking beasts, not human not anything that had lived with her tribe before.

When the little girl fell out from behind the tree she dropped her guard completely.  Children had gotten lost during tribal journey's she knew that.  If this was one it was her duty to find its home, the ancestors would want no less.  Crouching in front of the girl she made her teeth appear normal, though the trial markings on her face remained.   "Girl, where is your tribe?  Did you lose them?"   Though her tribe must be on good ground for a child to be carrying these items, maybe her tribe could move to such grounds.

 
 Spoiler 
She hasn't seen a halfling before, she thinks you are a child from a tribe who got lost.
 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler 
So, I'm not sure why Aidan looks tired after nearly a week of hunting a little, but mostly relaxing.
Also, since it's a new day, more food arrives!
 (1d20)[ 2 ]  (Since he has a +10 bonus to the roll, divide the d20 roll by two and that's how many people can be fed)

Well, I guess he only found enough for Asha.
 

 Hello. Sadly, I do not have enough food for you, but you are welcome to rest by the fire. So long as you mean no harm. 

You looks at the one who seemed to just appear next to them, then mutters to himself
 Why can no one simply approach me from the front? Always the sneaking... 
CWater
Stiira takes a few steps back when Asha moves closer, but seems to relax a little when she crouches down to her level. She takes a few breaths, to gather her courage.  "No, I... came here because a dream summoned",  she looks around, from person to person,   "...Did you... also see the horrible dreams?"  
 
 Spoiler 
And I bet it doesn't help that she is actually quite young too, a 20 year old halfling is like human who's 15 years old.😛 Though in this world, a person with that age can often be considered adult.
 
Athedia
 "I got the dreams too, but why would a tribe send a young child?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Asha considers everyone here children technically.  She is the only one with trial markings after all and those only mark her as taking the journey to become an adult.  No-one has adult markings.  Though she doesn't exactly know what Taesha would count as.
 
CWater
This comment gets a different reaction from the girl.  "I-I am no child!",  she shouts with an adolescent's fury,  "I've seen my two tens of winters! I...  am an adult now. " 
Athedia
Asha looked at the girl in surprise.  This little childlike person was a winter older than her?  But she held no markings of an adult.   "Have you not undergone your trial?  For that, have none of you?"   She looked at the others gathered around the fire.  She saw no markings of adulthood on any of them.   "Without the trial you are still a child." 
Etherion
 I think it's a safe guess to think everyone here had the dreams. 
 And what are you talking about? What trial? 
Seharvepernfan
 "He will not hurt you." 

Kanok looks back and forth between those present, listening to each in turn.  Twenty winters?  Nineteen?  Was he the youngest here?  How can girls so small be of age?  They all have such high voices...  Trial markings?

With a soft snort, Kanok ignores the (to him) inanity of the scene before him.  He moves over to the fire and crouches down, removing a small dead animal that he had killed a while ago, and begins to cook it.  He has other food as well, and it is normal for him to find enough in one day to feed seven people.
Without turning around, he speaks, "I have slain many beasts, tusked warriors, and a two-headed giant with help from other hunters.   I  am a man."   He thumps his fist against the Dragonskin.   "A dream-speaker has guided me to this place." 
MrE
 
 Spoiler: Markings &amp; Appearance 
Taesha obviously doesn't have these adult-marking, but does have a number of symbols tattooed on her body, charting her life.

Also, the only difference between her and a normal human are her glowing blue eyes.

Also, I have no idea why my character sheet said Taesha was 64: she'd probably be dead by that age. She is 24.
 


Taesha watches the humans and halfling wearily.  "I too came here because of the dream,"  she stated, with a hint of warmth. She had not known what to expect: some sage perhaps, or maybe her mother... But not a bunch of youths from other tribes.
CWater
Stiira looks at Asha.   "Not all tribes mark their members." ,  she whispers, then continues with a little more confidence,  "Among my people, one that has seen two tens of winters is always an adult. But I've heard, that  in other tribes... "  Her voice fades away again and she shifts her feet.
Athedia
He claimed to be an adult?  Odd.  But all of these people were.   "So none of you sent the dreams?  Interesting." 

She looked up at the sky and without a word sent the dove flying up.   "As for the trial.  For the ancestors to recognize an adult you must perform a service for the tribe.  They watch and guide your footsteps and judge if you are worthy.  My marks tell I am on this, I can not return to my tribe until my journey is complete." 

She looked down at the girl again.   "We have adults of 14 winters and children of 30.  But I some other tribes must be desperate for adults, I understand that." 
Etherion
 We should discover the reason for the dreams in another six days. 
Rathgar
As the young centaur prophet Tuntematon grew into a young adult, it became obvious to him that it was time to pack up and start traveling from village to village spreading the divine understanding that Alnin brought.  His village hated to see him go, but felt that it would be unwise to try to restrain a deity's messenger from their mission.

Unfortunately, in all the time that Tuntematon spent learning of both the divine and the peculiar, he'd neglected to learn a few of his wilderness survival lessons he'd been taught as a child.  He also forgot the way to the next village.  A couple of days into his wanderings, Tuntematon was completely lost, and he only had a limited supply of berries and jerky to carry him over.    It's O.K., Alnin shall find a way to guide me in the way that I am needed.  In her own strange way.    He scrounged what he could from the land, but he was not as adept in the field of gathering as his fellow tribesmen.  Little did he know just how strange his journey was about to become.

That night, and the next few nights thereafter, Tuntematon kept having dreams.  These were not normal dreams of whimsy or exaggerated fears that one normally has.  Rather, these dreams were more like visions.  The kinds of visions sent by Alnin's elder sibling, Tieteir.    Truly, these portents instruct me to take instant action, if only I knew which way to go.  

On the evening of the third night, a bizarrely dense fog settled over the lost man.  Even more unable to find his way, Tuntematon wandered around even more lost than ever.  However, the day the fog lifted, there it was.  The clearing that was shown in the dreams was right in front of him.

However, Tuntematon was very hungry.  His provisions had nearly run dry.  However, he saw off int he woods near the clearing a fairly large buck.  He launched a sling bullet at the buck at the buck, but the buck bolted.  He followed the rail of blood left by said buck until he found the place where it had died.  Claiming his kill, Tuntematon made his way back to the clearing, the buck on his sledge, his intention being to clean and prepare the meat when he got back.  However, just as he got back, he saw several people with only two legs and no hooves, one of them was very small.  He knew that many such people existed, but he'd rarely seen them.  Perhaps they were here for the same reason he was?

 "Greetings to every one of you!  Who goes there, and why have you gathered?" 
Etherion
 We are here because we all had a dream. And I'm guessing you had it too. Well, I suppose we'll be finding out what it means in a few hours. 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I hope this doesn't come too early for anyone, I felt this was a good moment to move things along a bit.
 


The following hours pass slowly, with the six dreamers eyeing each other and maybe engaging in some conversation to avoid awkward silence. The surrounding forest is calm, though noisy in its own way. Many different birds are singing and there's always the occasional rustling, though few beings without wings actually come into sight.

 
 Spoiler 
It's mid-spring btw, still slightly chilly on some nights, but it will be possible to sleep outside without fear of freezing, though a good shelter will make it much more comfortable.
 


The sky is clear, when the sun starts to approach the horizon coloring the distant clouds orange and faint red. Suddenly the peace is disturbed by a growl and a big wildcat jumps down from the crooked tree. It sits down neatly under it, stares at you and lets out another roar, surprisingly loud for its small size.

Pic:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


When it has the everyone's attention, the wildcat rises up and tiptoes towards the forest. On the treeline it stops and looks over its shoulder.
Etherion
 I think we are meant to follow it. 

Aidan stands up, and walks over to the treeline.
MrE
Taesha did not understand the girl with the trial markings, but she did not push her. None of them had the  Wyrd-Runes  that charted past and future, but they were not Dhakan, so it was not surprising.

The small centaur's appearance however did surprise her, for Taesha was unaccustomed to such creatures or their larger cousins.

When the cat leapt into the clearing, Taesha immediately blinked herself into a standing position, spear leveled. But the bold creature apparently did not want to fight, and one of the humans suggested that it wanted them to follow it. Strange behavior for an animal, but perhaps it was more than it seemed...

 "I think you're right. We should be careful though." 
Athedia
Asha let the dove fly over the cat, watching their path to make sure it was not leading them into danger.   "A cat as a messenger.  I wonder why the sender did not come in person."   But gathering up her items and strapping them back on she followed the cat, Fear once more at it's shortened length.
Rathgar
The small centaur looks puzzled.   "Well, it looks like I missed a lot.  In any case, you seem to have some insight that I currently lack, so I guess this will be a good time to trust in others."   Tuntematon went ahead and dragged his sledge with him, following the unusually tame wildcat.  Something seems oddly too easy about all this, though.

 
 Spoiler 
 Sense Motive to try and figure out if anyone has anything to hide:   (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok doesn't know what to make of the centaur; he knows that nature manifests itself into strange creatures, some of them being shapechangers, but he never expected to see a half-beast, half-man creature.  Fang is perplexed as well, and won't stop eyeing and sniffing at the poor thing.

When the cat appears, Kanok seems at ease.  He was not expecting a cat, but this creature clearly wants them to follow, and,  "The dream-speaker spoke of sending a guide."   At that, he gets up, arms his shield and spear, and follows it, taking the lead position in the group, just behind the wildcat.  On the way over, he instructs Fang to defend Stiira, having the dog walk beside her.

 
 Spoiler 
You know, maybe.

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
Stiira nods and follows the others into the woods. When Fang places himself next to her she eyes him warily at first, but when he clearly means her no harm she calms down a bit.

 
 Spoiler 
More later.
 


EDIT:
The wildcat continues to lead the newly formed group through the forest, keeping itself several feet ahead of them and even occasionally disappearing from sight. Though it is never gone too long for you to follow.

Nature is in a good moment of growth, with the grass growing high and new leaves covering the trees, making the forest much greener than the evergreens alone can. However, the light in the forest soon starts to diminish, the day reaching that strange moment of dusk, when colours are still around, but slowly fading.
Athedia
Asha watched the forest carefully.  Nothing larger could come out of these trees, but even smaller things were dangerous.

The dove fluttered from tree to tree above them, it's eyes sharper than an humans.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha:
Spot  (1d20+1)[ 5 ] 
Listen  (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 

Dove:
Spot  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
Listen  (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
 
CWater
A forest is never entirely quiet and most can only pick up the normal sounds, though most birds have started to retire for the day. However, Aidan and Asha, through her bird, notice a very faint clicking* noise. It's a strange sound, and it comes from the direction of a tree maybe 30 feet ahead of them.

Kanok who's walking first spots a shape in the same tree, though he cannot say for sure what it is through the leaves. It seems roughly the size of a human, but he can't tell if it is actually a humanoid or a big animal, or something else. Looking around, he spots another shape in another tree about 30 feet to the right. The group's current path would take them right between the two trees. He can also see the wildcat far ahead, it has stopped again to wait. Suddenly a stray ray of light from the setting sun reflects oddly from seemingly out thin air inbetween him and the cat, maybe a few feet further from the trees with the obscure shapes.

 
 Spoiler 

*I'm really not sure if this is the correct word for this description, but it is the only I found. ^^'

A very ugly simple map.

.........C








...........R




Tr....................Tr






............K

C = cat
R = strange reflection
Tr = tree (there are obviously others, but these were relevant for this post)
K = Kanok (the rest are behind him in the previously established order)
(ignore the dots, they're just there because the forum doesn't like extra space)

Don't worry, I'll draw an actual better map, if it comes to that.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok twists his head in confusion and curiosity at the luminous oddity before him.  Noticing the figures in the trees, he snaps to attention and raises his shield in front of himself, then turns his head to the side and yells,  "Trap!  Get ready!"   He then quickly walks backwards while facing the figures in the trees, to stand in front of Asha.

 
 Spoiler 
Taking a total defense action as a standard action, raising his AC to 23, then using a move action to provide Asha with soft cover.  If this is a surprise round, he just uses the total defense action.
 
Athedia
Asha turned invisible at Kanok's warning.  Her spear grew longer in her hand and she and the bird tried to find what Kanok had warned about.
Etherion
Aidan pulls out his bow, and listens carefully to pinpoint the location of their enemy.
 
 Spoiler 
Move action: take out bow
Passive listen check:  (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 
Standard action/active listen check:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
 
CWater
Stiira gasps and runs behind the closest tree.

(There are many around, it's a forest, after all.)

 
 Spoiler 
I'm not entirely sure yet what's my stance on rerolling skill checks, but you may do so this time at least.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 
 "Hey, what strange manner of thing might this be?"   Tuntematon wracked his mind as to whether he encountered anything like this before, and summons a minor miracle of Alnin in an attempt to aid his thoughts.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Detect Magic, looking between the trees.

Attempts to identify what is going on.
 Knowledge (Arcana):   (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
 Knowledge (Religion):   (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 Spellcraft:   (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha grimaced at Kanok's shout and immediately filled her soulbindings with as much strength as she had. The claws on her hands and feet glowed and she glanced around, looking for potential assailants.

She also stepped up close to the miniature centaur, wanting to both protect the rear of the party and be able to easily reach the front should the battle begin there.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
 
CWater
Lumps of something white come hurling down from the two trees. One is aimed at Kanok, the other at Aidan.

 
 Spoiler 
At Kanok:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
At Aidan:  (1d20-2)[ 9 ] 
(ranged touch attacks, good for you that you noticed them from a distance😉)
 


Both warriors manage to dodge the projectiles and the sticky substances just land on the ground. On closer inspection, it looks like web.

Now alerted to the direction of the danger, everyone can notice the omnious figures up in the trees, though the leaves block the way of a better view.
 
 Spoiler 
So basically, you can see that there is something and you can attack it too with a ranged weapon, but to actually see what it is, you'll have to get closer.
 


Tuntematon doesn't notice anything magical in the surroundings, the only thing he picks up is the faint aura's of some of the group's equipment.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
I'll probably use other ways to create maps in the future, but for now images will do.

 

Brown squares are trees,
please ignore the gray line that stands out, I don't know where it came from.
 


(Now, this was for this special round. I'll roll initiative in OOC in a moment.)
Etherion
Aidan takes aim at whatever is hiding in the tree on the left, and fires an arrow.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack roll:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Crit confirm (if necessary):  (1d20+7)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
Crit damage 1(if necessary):  (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
Crit damage 2 (if necessary):  (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha moved forward, unseen.  She attempted to move closer in postition to the invisible creatures to help bring them down. 
 Spoiler 
Move to U27, double movement, I don't think she can climb this round.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Starting Position: 36Q, Ending Position: 33S 
 "Hämärtää!"  yelled the centaur, activating the magical properties of his armor to make him seem slightly indistinct.   "I may not know what strangeness this is, but it certainly isn't friendly!" 

With that, drew his sling while trotting over to a better vantage point, then let a stone fly.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move 20 feet while drawing sling
Standard Action: Attack ??? at 27T with sling
Swift Action: Activate Blurring effect of armor

Rolls:
 Attack Roll With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Necessary):   (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
 ("Webbing?")   Kanok tries to remember if he knows what kind of creature can throw spider-webbing, yet is shaped like a man.  He hears Asha run past him, but does not see her...  Without pausing, he drops his spear and runs back through the group to a tree he remembered passing.  Coming up around it's other side, he retrieves one of the hide scrolls tucked into his belt and unfurls it.

 
 Spoiler 
Well, that certainly  looks  cowardly.

 Knowledge (Nature):   (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
Drops spear in Q34, runs to N40, retrieves Scroll of Produce Flame.
 
CWater
Aidan's arrow misses it's target and disappears to the forest. Asha runs forward invisible reaching the other tree. When she looks up, she sees the creature lurking in it. It is vaguely the shape of a humanoid, though is has strange proportions, a potruding belly, and a pair of claws in place of hands. It's head reminds her slightly of a spider's, and it's glancing widely around, trying to locate the source of the footsteps.

From the other tree another lump of web comes flying towards Aidan.
 (1d20-2)[ 17 ] 
It hits and the hunter finds himself stuck where he stands.
 
 Spoiler 
Entangled and can't move. Escape Artist DC 13 or Str DC 17 will get him loose. I'm sorry, this really isn't his day.
 


While retrieving his scroll, Kanok remembers old tales of beings that stood like humanoids, but had the eyes and abilities of a spider, though few had ever been seen as far north as his tribe lived. The tales mentioned their ability to throw webs and to climb with great speed. The most scary ones also told of victims rendered helpless... by the creature's poison. Oh, and that they were carnivores.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
CWater
Stiira takes a deep breath, then runs forward from behind the tree holding her palms together and muttering arcane words, before releasing a shimmering blue orb from her hands.
 
 Spoiler 
She moves to T33 and casts Orb of Cold at the creature in the tree on the right.
Ranged touch attack:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 4 ] 
 

The leaves block her view though, and the orb freezes a branch of the tree instead.

On the other hand, a pleasant thud and a small shriek from the same tree implies that Tuntematon's stone found it's mark.

While the attack from the trees gets most of the group's attention, anyone glancing back at where they came can notice the appearance of two spiders. Neither is bigger than Stiira, though they are still unnaturally large for such creatures. Oddly enough, after leaving a tree they seem to travel across empty air, the first maybe 8 feet and the other behind it at 5 feet over the ground. They are not approaching the group however, but head towards another tree.

 
 Spoiler 
The spiders come from the tree at O46 and reach S45 and R45 on this turn.

To move things on a bit, I'm delaying Taesha's action to the first block. MrE, if you really want her to move before the spiders appeared, we can retcon that.
 


EDIT: Fixed a few errors.
Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan struggles to fire another arrow at the spider that trapped him.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack roll:  (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok incants the words on the scroll, which burn bright red before incinerating the scroll from his hand.  The fire lingers, however, completely covering Kanok's right hand and wrist, which do not seem to burn.  The area around him is lit up as if he were carrying a torch.

As soon as the scroll burns away, Kanok is running towards the tree Stiira was just standing behind.  He comes to a hard stop, body-checking the trunk to halt his momentum.

 
 Spoiler 
Casts Produce Flame and moves to U37.
Fang should move to stay with Stiira, when possible.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Bird moves to 29 W.
Bird Spot:  (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 

Asha Climb check vs DC 15
 (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 

according to the srd

 Action
Climbing is part of movement, so it’s generally  part of a move action (and may be combined with other types of movement in a move action).  Each move action that includes any climbing requires a separate Climb check. Catching yourself or another falling character doesn’t take an action. 

She could attempt two climb checks in the same round since she is not attacking.  If allowed  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 


Asha carefully picked her way up the tree, using Malphas's birds eyes to guide her path.
MrE
Taesha glanced up as the attack began:  an ambush?  She didn't have much time to think about the ramifications though, and immediately moved into action, pounding forwards towards the trees where their enemies lurked.

 
 Spoiler 
Double Move Action to O27.

Sorry for delaying everyone ☹️
 
CWater
The sticky web prevents Aidan from getting a proper aim and another arrow disappears to the forest.

Asha starts to climb the tree, getting about halfway to the spider-like creature. At one point she almost loses her hold, but manages to keep herself from falling. Her bird flies around, but fails to see anything new. The creature also looks around, but seems not to be able to figure out the source of the noises. Instead it spits another lump of web towards the one that threw a rock at it, Tuntematon.

Taesha runs to the other tree and sees a similiar creature lurking among its branches. It lets out a shriek and spits web at her.

 
 Spoiler 
Ranged touch:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ]  at Tuntematon
Miss on 1-20 due to Blur  (1d100)[ 89 ] 

Ranged touch:  (1d20+6)[ 15 ]  at Taesha

Taesha can also do a Knowledge:Nature to see if she knows anything about these creatures.
 

Both Taesha and Tuntematon are caught in their respective webs.

Stiira frowns when her previous spell only hit the tree. She touches a small white pearl tied to a lock of her hair and whispers,  " Help me remember. "  The spell she just cast reappers in her mind and she throws another blue orb.

 
 Spoiler 
Pearl of Power used for the day,
Orb of Cold targeted at the thing in T27:
Ranged touch: (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 2 ] 
 

This time Stiira's sphere hits the creature, but it takes only a minor frostbite.
CWater
Tuntematon sets another stone flying towards the closest creature.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 

Attack like Rathgar said, I assume he'll also want to try to escape the web.
Escape Artist:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
 

The web hampers also his aim, though he manages to escape its hold a moment after.

The spiders continue their climb through the air.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan struggles to break free of his web, then attempts to fire yet another arrow at the creature that trapped him.

 
 Spoiler 
Move: escape artist check (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Standard: shoot the thing.
 (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok snorts in agitation; these web-slingers were getting on his nerves.  He leans out from behind his tree and aims his fiery palm towards the furthest one.  The flames eject from his hand as if fired from a bow, leaving a thin trail of wispy smoke.  He then puts his back to the tree for a moment, glancing in the opposite direction from the creatures in the trees to make sure he isn't being flanked.

 
 Spoiler 
 Produce Flame (ranged touch):   (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 If Crit:   (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
😳  Move Action Spot Check:   (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha struggled with the biding webs that suddenly held her, and tried to escape whilst rifling through her memories for some knowledge of these creatures. If she could get her arms free, she would hurl her spear at the creature before her.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Nature:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Escape Artist Check:  (1d20)[ 2 ]  (as long as this isn't a standard or full round action)

Attack roll with Spear (thrown):  (1d20)[ 10 ]  (including the -4 from entangled)
Damage  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
The creature evades and Taesha's spear gets stuck on the tree, that also catches fire from Kanok's spell. Taesha remembers similiar tales as him about these creatures, that they are vicious carnivores that climb trees with ease, and are known to ensnare people in their web traps, before rendering them helpless with their poisonous bites.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 rounds remaining)
Position: 33S 
 "Gah, fire!  Kill that thing before it accidentally spreads it more!"   And with that, Tuntematon let loose another sling bullet, this time towards the creature in the other tree.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack ??? at 27M with sling

Rolls:
 Attack Roll With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 Weapon Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Climb  (1d20+2)[ 7 ]  vs DC 15
 


Asha reached up for the limb close to the creature above her when the branch beneath her foot finally gave way to the years of rot that had grown through it.  Her left had busy holding the spear, and her right in the process of reaching out, Asha could not stop her fall.
CWater
The other creature shrieks as its surroundings start to turn fiery and it climbs down from the tree. It seems to hesitate for a moment but seeing Taesha who's stuck in the web it heads towards her and tries to bite her.
 
 Spoiler 
Taesha's has AC 15 due to the Dex penalty for being entangled.
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
If hits, Fort. save DC 15 against poison.
 

A pic of the thing btw:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


The other creature looks puzzled (or, it probably does, a bit hard to tell with a face like that) when it hears the thud from Asha's fall, but doesn't see anyone. Seeing no nearer target though, it spits web against the closest one still free, Fang:
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 


Tuntematon hits the creature  that came down from the tree with a rock.
 
 Spoiler 
His turn comes after the creature's (someone guess in OOC what they are already so I can use that!😛), but he can still attack it.
 


Stiira takes a few steps back, possibly subconsciously, and casts another spell. A shimmering blue shield appears in the air in front of her.

The spiders pass through a tree and continue forward. Kanok watches their strange movement and suddenly he gets a glimpse of something white and realizes what they are doing. They're unfolding an almost transparent web.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Etherion
After finally freeing himself from the web, Aidan fires off an arrow at the creature still in the tree.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move: finally escape from web
Standard: shoot the spider thing on the right
 (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha cursed and picked herself up.  She would climb this tree.  In her head she heard Malphas laughing at her.    You think you can do better?    She thought as she launched up the tree again.

 
 Spoiler 
Double move
Climb  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Climb 2:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 

She falls.... A lot.  Seriously if I were that spidery creature I think I would be wondering if the tree was about to fall down.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (2 rounds remaining)
Position: 33S 

Seeing the spider beast endangering one of his travel mates, Tuntematon did the only sensible thing.  He kept slinging stones at it.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack ??? at 27N with Sling

Rolls:
 Attack Roll With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 Damage Roll:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok takes in the worsening situation with a grunt before dashing off to yet another tree.  While moving, he yells,  "Fang!  Attack!"   Coming up behind it, he leans out and again unleashes another ball of fire, this time at the creature above Asha, hoping to finish it off.

 
 Spoiler 
...and burn another tree.

Moves to AA32, attacks the Ettercap in T27.

 Produce Flame (Ranged Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
if crit:
 Produce Flame (Ranged Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 

I was aiming to inspire Fang to try to break free.
 
CWater
Aidan's arrow scratches the ettercap on the right. Kanok manages to set a second tree on fire, which causes the creature in it to also hastily climb down. It glances around making angry sounds and spits web at Tuntematon.
 
 Spoiler 
Ranged Touch:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 

The centaur evades it.

The other ettercap attacks Taesha.
 
 Spoiler 
Bite:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
Fort save again.

Claw1:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+1)[ 2 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+1)[ 2 ] 
 

The claws miss, but Taesha is bitten again.

Tuntematon's stone hits the first ettercap's shoulder.
 
 Spoiler 
Maybe it would be just easier if you were in the first block too. :)
 


Stiira also tries to sling a stone at the same creature.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 2 ] 
 

Her stone finds its mark.

The spiders keep moving forward.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Fang growls and tries to move forward with all his considerable might, snapping strands of the spider webbing as he does so.

 
 Spoiler 
 Strength Check:   (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
If I understand correctly, that was for his last turn.  If he succeeds, then he attacks the nearest ettercap on this turn.

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
if crit:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 

If the attack is successful, Fang attempts to pull the ettercap's feet out from under it.
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok sees his opportunity as the creature clambers down from it's tree.  Still leaning out from behind the tree, he lowers his aim and "fires" again at the thing.  His aim is poor yet again, however, and the ball of flame streaks past the creature, actually creating a path that flies between both creatures as it goes into the distance.  Kanok growls in frustration (oddly similar to his dog), running out from the tree to close with the damned thing while drawing his club, vaulting over Fang as he does so.

 
 Spoiler 

 Produce Flame (Ranged-Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
if crit:
 Produce Flame (Ranged-Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 

Kanok moves to S32, pulling out his club as he goes.  He still has a bit of produce flame left, which is still burning on his hand (and not harming his club), but it will last for another 5 rounds or so.
 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler 
Since it seems to be block 1 again
 


Aidan fires another arrow at the creature I. The right, then runs towards it, pulling out his axes.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
standard: shoot ettercap 2
 (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
Move: to P 31, pull out axes
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Position: 33S 
 "Why don't you spidermen get the message?  We aren't food!"   Not even slowing down as he says that, the centaur continues lobbing the stones at the mysterious creatures.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack E1 With Sling

Rolls:
 Attack Roll With Sling:   (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
 Damage Roll:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Athedia
Stepping closer, Asha thrust the spear toward the creature near her.  Her invisibility disappeared as she attacked.

 
 Spoiler 
I just realized I did invisibility wrong, it should have only been lasting 3 rounds, sorry.

If Dex is denied to the creature I get to use Sudden Strike, but I don't know if that holds true.

So basic attack:  (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ]  Strength bonus to damage *1.5 and +1 magic weapon
 
MrE
 
 Spoiler: The previous round's attack, if viable 
Having pulled herself free from the net, Taesha felt a renewed sense of freedom, though she could feel the creature's poison flowing through her veins, making her feel sluggish.

She darted forward and left high into the air in order to strike at the creature in the tree.

Jump check to get level with the creature (which was still in the tree at this point):  (1d20+17)[ 23 ]  (DC dependent on the height of the tree)
If successful: attack with all four claws: Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 


Once the creatures had climbed down from the trees Taesha grinned.  Enough with these webs!  It was time to destroy these creatures. But she was too close, her fighting style was that of the leaping tiger, the striking bird.

She darted away from the creature attacking her and sped towards the exposed rear of the other creature, leaping into the air to land slashing behind it.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to R28, take AoO from E1.
Jump Check for 5ft Jump: DC 20  (1d20+17)[ 33 ] 

If successful: attack with all four claws: Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
Attack roll: (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 

If not, just the first attack.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Ah, getting away from the web was a move action, so Taesha couldn't also jump that turn. The ettercap had just bit her, so it was in range for one attack from her (the first you rolled), although unfortunately that was a miss. I'm sorry for this confusion.
 

Taesha shrugs of the effects of the second poisonous bite. As she turns around to head for the other ettercap, the first tries to bite her one more time.
 
 Spoiler 
AoO:
Bite:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
If hits, Fort save as before.
 


Taesha leaps forward and slashes the other creature twice, leaving deep cuts. At the same Aidan shoots an arrow to its neck and a spear seemingly out of nothing stabs it from behind, though its holder turns visible too right after. With its multiple wounds, the ettercap falls down to the grass, dead.
 
 Spoiler 
The charms of block initiative, now we'll never know who actually got the kill.😉
 
.

Kanok's small fireball passes this gathering and flies towards the forest before something stops it. There was a web behind the other ettercap, quickly consumed by the fire.

Fang fails to break from the web covering it.

The rock thrown by Tuntematon hits the other ettercap hard on the head and with angry shrieks, it runs away, climbing another tree. The spiders stop their advancement and climb higher on the closest tree. (AB38)

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
The red line is where you saw the web burn. (Not on fire anymore.)
s1 is Kanok's spear, s2 is Taesha's.
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Starting Position: 33S, Ending Position: 29R 

When Tuntematon saw the webs erupt into flames, he panicked.   "Fire!  We've got to put out that fire before it kills us all!"   Believing all the spiders to have been driven away, Tuntematon galloped over to the flames, drawing his waterskin as he went.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Two Move Actions: Move to 29R, ready Waterskin
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok drops his club, clenching his flame-gripped hand in anticipation, and runs to the furthest burning tree.  Coming up to a stop beside it, he leans out, using it as cover, and unleashes the last of his fire spell at the surviving creature in the tree.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves to N27.

 Produce Flame (Ranged-Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
if crit:
 Produce Flame (Ranged-Touch):   (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 Fire Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 

Fang attempts to break free again.
 Strength Check:   (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 
CWater
The outer branches of a third tree catch fire. This tree is a little bigger than the others and if one looks closely there is even some visible web around it.
 
 Spoiler 
A Spot check might tell you more. Or going closer.
 


Fang is still unable to break free from the web holding him.
Etherion
Aidan moves towards the remaining ettercap, pulling out his bow once more. 
 Spoiler 
Move: To K 29, pull out bow again...
Standard: Shoot the ettercap
 (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok curses and unstraps his shield, tossing it back towards the others, then gets out his bone shortbow, nocking an arrow.
CWater
Aidan's arrow scratches the ettercap in the tree. It's hard to tell through the leaves and flames, but it doesn't seem to be concentrating on the group at the moment. Instead, it's doing something with the webbing up in the tree.

Taesha also cathes a glimpse of some large bundles of web up there. At least two that are about as large as the ettercap itself.

The other two trees are still on fire, but it hasn't spred any further. Taesha's spear in the left one might be in danger of becoming charred though.
Seharvepernfan
Leaning around the side of his tree, Kanok peers into the boughs of the tree the creature retreated to, trying to see if there is anything to the webbing that entangles the tree.  After getting a good look, he takes aim at the spider-man, draws his bow and lets loose.

 
 Spoiler 
Not my turn yet, but this is what he'll do.

 Spot Check:   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 
if crit:
 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+6)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon cuts Fang loose from the web (full-round action).

Kanok glances through the leaves and branches he sees the ettercap unfastening a bundle of web, about Stiira's size, from one of the bigger branches. There are also two other bundles that are a bit larger, attached to the tree trunk. They're all about 10 ft. above ground level.

Kanok fires an arrow, but it misses the ettercap and disappears to the forest.

 
 Spoiler 
And it is the Players turn.

How many arrows have been fired in total btw? Kanok has used this one. Aidan has shot... five?
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Position: 29R 
 "Hey, there's someone, or something, up in the tree with that spider creature!  Let's try to save it!"   With that, Tuntematon launched another sling bullet at the ettercap.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack Ettercap With Sling

Rolls:
 Attack Roll With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed:   (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 Damage Roll:   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan also fires at the remaining ettercap.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
shoot:
Hit:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 
Crit damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Completely agreeing with Tuntameton, Kanok furrows his brow, nocks another arrow, aims, and releases.  He's not sure what that thing is doing, but he wants to stop it.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
if crit:
 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 

No move action.
 
CWater
Tuntematon's rock and Aidan's arrow hit the ettercap in the back and it fumbles down from the tree with the small bundle in tow. The flames on the tree grow bigger.
MrE
Taesha puts her head down and runs as fast as she can towards the fallen ettercap, in order to retrieve whatever, or whoever, was caught in the web.

 
 Spoiler 
Double move to K23
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok sees an opportunity and runs away from the tree to stand over the fallen creature, nocking another arrow and letting loose.

 
 Spoiler 

Moving to the nearest adjacent square to the ettercap.  Since he is adjacent, I don't think it gets a prone bonus to AC from ranged attacks.  If it seems to be knocked out, he coup de graces it.

 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
if crit:
 Shortbow:   (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok finishes off the ettercap with a precise shot.

 
 Spoiler 
Since all the enemies are gone, we'll drop the initiative. Feel free to describe what you do next, though of course remember to wait for your fellow players when appropriate.🙂

If you have any questions, or want more descriptions of the surroundings, just ask.
 
Athedia
Asha had been frozen in shock at the sight of the webs.  Were those people?

Then she heard Malphas inside her head.  He wanted those spider people, he wanted their poison.  Asha bent down next the the creature.   "Anyone know how to extract the poison?" 
MrE
Taesha nodded to Kanok, though she did notice a pang of jealousy that she was not the one to deliver the kill. But with fire all around them, it was not the time to dwell, and she hurried back to the tree where her spear still hung, in an attempt to retrieve it before it became too damaged.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok inspects the small bundle on the ground, curious as to what it is.  He shakes his head at Asha; his tribe never poisoned their weapons.

 
 Spoiler 
If the bundles are live captives or potentially contain items he might want, he'll climb the tree to rescue the others.  He'll take 10 if possible (fire might count as danger), otherwise:

 Climb:   (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
second one if necessary:
 Climb:   (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 
CWater
Taesha jumps high and manages to retrieve her spear before the fire does too muh damage to it. There is a some black marks on it, but it is still in one piece and seems usable.

 
 Spoiler 
Taesha has high enough modifier on Jump, so she auto-passes the skill check needed to retrieve it.
 


Upon closer inspection, it does indeed seem that the small bundle of web contains something alive, likely a small humanoid of some sort. Kanok makes it up to the burning tree without trouble. There he sees the two other bundles, a medium sized humanoid would fit in them, yes.

 
 Spoiler 
Aye, climb checks are needed due to the fire. Does Kanok want to Search up there? He must make a Ref save DC 12 or take 1d4 fire damage every round he stays up in the tree though.
 
Athedia
Asha left the spider things alone for now, going over to Kanok.   "You want them down?  Need a hand?" 
Seharvepernfan
 "Yes and yes!  Try to catch them!"   Kanok yells down from the burning tree.  He unsheathes his knife of black-ice and reaches out to each of the strands holding the bundles, and begins slicing through them, each in turn.

 
 Spoiler 
black-ice being obsidian

I'm going to roll several reflex saves, however many it takes to cut these things and climb back down.

 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
 Climb:   (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 Climb:   (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 

and a jump check to break a fall, if I fail horrendously while climbing

 Jump:   (1d20+10)[ 12 ] 
 
Athedia
 "Try to?"   Asha yelped as the first bundle came tumbling down, doing her best to get under it and break its fall.

She managed to twist under it, the bundle catching her upside the head as she did.  But she had caught it, somewhat.   The next bundle fell and she jumped under it, cushioning the bundles fall.

Carefully she sat up, holding her ribs.   "Owww...." 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Asha took 6 points of damage, but managed to catch them both.

Kanok takes damage from the fire, but not from the fall:
 (1d4)[ 1 ] 
 (1d4)[ 2 ] 
 (1d4)[ 3 ] 

I'll wait a moment now, to see if anyone else wants to post something.
 
Etherion
 Now, let's see what's inside. 

Aidan moves towards one of the bundles, and cuts open the webbing, careful not to damage/hurt whatever's inside.
MrE
Taesha returns with her slightly charred spear to inspect whatever it is that is caught within the web.
CWater
Opening the first bigger bundle releases a foul stench and reveals the body of an mangled orc. Judging from its condition, he's been dead for a few days. The corpse is missing its whole right arm and some parts of the legs.

The other bigger bundle has an wild elf inside. At first it seems like she's dead too, her leg down from the knee is gone and she doesn't look very good otherwise either, but looking closely you can see that the afterlife guide hasn't quite come around yet. The elf's alive, but very weak.

 
 Spoiler 
As in about-to-die-in-your-arms weak. Any damage from the fall would have killed her right there, yes.
 


The smaller lump of web, perhaps to your relief, doesn't hold a child, but a halfling. He's in one piece and breathing, though unconscious. He is darker than Stiira and the halfling girl says in a quiet voice that the he's not from her tribe. The overall scene seems to make the little witch sick.
Athedia
Asha stared at the bundle before lunging forward and activating her belt.  A quick charge healed  (2d6)[ 10 ]  health to the fallen elf.  She was glad she had caught it, though she had gotten kicked by the dead orc.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 

The centaur gave a brief prayer on behalf of the wounded.   "Oh, great Alnin, please grant me the unknown knowledge of supernatural healing." 

Tuntematon then trotted to Taesha, the dark skinned halfling, and the elf, lending some of Alnin's more peculiar healing powers.

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Lesser Vigor on the elf, the dark skinned halfling and Taesha, healing 12 HP over the course of 12 rounds.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok rolls around on the ground when he lands, to make sure whatever fires on him are now out, then quickly gets up and approaches the group while producing a bone wand from a pocket in his clothes.  By the time he gets there, the worst of the wounds have been healed, but he uses the wand to finish up.  The end of the bone glows white as he touches it to both Taesha and himself.  He nods at Taesha while doing so, acknowledging her bravery and skill in battle.

After seeing that everyone is alright, he goes to collect his shortbow, shield, club, and spear, and reunites with Fang.  Coming back, he goes to search the dead orc; they have always been enemies of his people, and he feels no shame in rummaging through the corpse's possessions, if any.

 "You fight well."   He says to the group at large.

 
 Spoiler 
Taking 20 on a search check for that orc.

 Nature:   (1d20+10)[ 11 ] 
To determine if those spiders are natural or deserving of extermination.

Are any of the fires spreading?
 
Etherion
Aidan looks around, to see if he can find any of the arrows that missed.

 
 Spoiler 
There were 3 misses, and 3 hits, so I lost 3 arrows, and might get 3 back.
 
CWater
As a result of the healing, the colour on the elf's face turns slightly healthier and the terrible wound in what is left of her knee closes, though she remains unconscious.* The halfling on the other hand grunts weakly and opens his eyes.  "Ghah.."  He instinctly tries to get away from anyone closest to him, but stops squirming after his vision clears a bit.  "Wha..." , he mumbles.

After a thorough search, Kanok finds three small containers from the orc's pockets. They're like very small waterskins, but based on the smell and colour they contain something else than water. The fourth container is broken.

Aidan is able to retrieve those three arrows that hit the ettercaps.
 
 Spoiler 
You may roll Search to find tha lost arrows, DC 14 to find one, 16 to find two, etc. The area is too large for taking 10.

*Not because she'd be in the negatives anymore, it just makes sense to me that she'd stay that way for a while.
 
MrE
Taesha is surprised when the bundles turn out to be people, but in retrospect it wasn't that strange. She cast about for any sign of the cat that had guided them into the ambush.  Had it been deliberate, or was it trying to bring them to one of these people? 
 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
 
CWater
The last of the day's light is leaving the forest, yet Taesha is able to spot the wildcat sitting in a nearby tree (one of those that weren't set on fire of course), staring at the group.
MrE
Taesha approaches the cat and attempts to calm it, leaving her arms at her side and attempting to appear non-threatening.

 
 Spoiler 
Wild Empathy:  (1d20-1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
The cat simply continues to stare at her from above.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 
 "Hm, I wonder what could be in those waterskins that smell so...strange..."   And with that, the centaur prays to Alnin to reveal what magic these things may contain.

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Detect Magic, using Spellcraft checks to try and figure out what might be in there.

Rolls:
 Spellcraft To Identify First Waterskin:   (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
 Spellcraft To Identify Second Waterskin:   (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 Spellcraft To Identify Third Waterskin:   (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon recognises one of the liquids as healing potion and one other as antitoxin, though he is not entirely sure how powerful the former is. One he fails to identify.

 
 Spoiler 
You know, technically the DC for identifying potions with Spellcraft is 25 (and no reroll). But that seems a bit high for common ones, so I'm going to have the DCs vary to what I see fit.

For example, the DC for identifying a healing potion will be 15, but to figure out  how  effective it is (Cure What Wouds) is higher. Exactly what the DC is depends on the corresponding spell's level.
 


Holding his head, the halfling scrambles up to a sitting position. He takes a moment to look around, studying the party, the charred trees and dead ettercaps.
 "Not entirely sure on the details.. But I guess I should thank you" , he says.
CWater
Slowly, the halfling stands up. He's wavering a little, but is able to hold his balance.  "Right, well, 'thank you'."  He starts to walk away to the dark forest, throwing glances over his shoulder before disappearing.
 
 Spoiler 
Unless someone wants to stop him of course.
 


The party hardly has time to think what to do next, when the wildcat suddenly jumps down from the tree. It lets out a loud growl and also starts to walk away, though in another direction that the halfling, and unlike him, it stops before getting out of sight and glares at the party expectantly.
Seharvepernfan
 "Little one."   Kanok calls out to the halfling, probably just loud enough for it to hear him.  He hoists the wounded elf up on his shoulders and walks towards the halfling, stopping when he gets a few strides away.   "It would be wise to go with us."   He states flatly before looking out into the dark forest, then turning and walking back to the group and the cat.  It would seem that's all the invitation the little guy is going to get, but there it is.

 
 Spoiler 
When we leave, Kanok is going to stay closer to the middle of the party.  Fang should still stay near Stiira.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Slowly, the halfling stands up. He's wavering a little, but is able to hold his balance.  "Right, well, 'thank you'."  He starts to walk away to the dark forest, throwing glances over his shoulder before disappearing.
 
 Spoiler 
Unless someone wants to stop him of course.
 


The party hardly has time to think what to do next, when the wildcat suddenly jumps down from the tree. It lets out a loud growl and also starts to walk away, though in another direction that the halfling, and unlike him, it stops before getting out of sight and glares at the party expectantly. 
 

Asha watched the halfling leave.  He looked to be no danger to her tribe.  Turning back to the unconscious elf she knelt down next to her.   "She comes with us."   It was some work but she pulled the female onto her shoulders.   "I will be slowed without help.  But she must come." 
 
 Spoiler 
How heavy is the elf.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 

The holy centaur saw Taesha weakening, and rushed to help.   "I don't think you're in very good shape here.  You seem like you're getting kind of wobbly.  How bad did those spiders bite you?  Let me check out your wounds more closely."   Tuntematon then started treating her wounds with what he had on hand.

 "And good sir Halfling, wait!  Please do not leave immediately!  You seem in no shape to travel alone in these woods.  In fact, I think traveling alone may be what got you in this trouble in the first place.  Please, good sir, let us at least help you till dawn.  And while you're here, let me tell you some of the wonders of Anlin, the Unknown One." 
 
 Spoiler 
Use the Heal skill to help her resist what poison is left in her system.

Rolls:
 Heal To Treat Poison:   (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha willing let Kanok take the elf.  Holding her ribs she stood, shaking her head at Tuntematon's attempts to convert the halfling.   "It is safe to go alone if you are good in the ancestors eyes.  Though I would run faster if you kept up your speaking of this 'god'."   Poor fool, he must have been the mad runt of his tribe.  Though there must be more madmen in the tribe if they taught of living gods.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 
 "If I am mad, then who is it that gives me the power to work miracles?  And who is it that guided me here by making me lost?  I believe that it be hän, the deity Anlin, who gives me such power." 
CWater
Tuntematon is able to prevent the poison from harming Taesha further.
 
 Spoiler 
Oh, good that someone remembers what Heal can do!

Just earlier today I couldn't remember that and had my cleric waste a scroll. Oh, well, it happens.😛
 


The halflings footsteps stop, but he stays out of view.  "...Thanks for the offer, but I think I'll be fine by myself. You big people make such noise, I can hide. Those monsters just got lucky." 
 
 Spoiler 
Do you guys want to continue this scene or move forward?
 
Athedia
 "Leave him.  If he says he can hide, Malphas taught me that is the safest measure.  And we are loud."   Asha started walking the toward the cat,  "The elf still needs us, but the little one was not invited on our journey." 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon 
 "Well, I guess if we must let you go, we must.  Be careful.  Though come to think of it, you likely are better at sneaking than my people.  Your feet are way fatter and less cloppy than the hooves of normal folk." 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Moving on now, if you really want to respond to something from before, it can be done retroactively.
 


The group continues their trip through the forest, choosing to follow the wildcat again. It is now very dark, though the bright fullmoon Tietra does provide some illumination through the branches and leaves. They hear a wolf howl somewhere, but nothing comes to bother them.

Finally, light from another source reaches the travellers' eyes and they notice that the cat is leading them right towards it. When the group get closer, they can see that it's coming from a small campfire. Located a few feet behind it, is a small hut, made of branches and clay.

The wildcat sprints forward from the forest's shadows and passes the fire, tiptoeing towards the hut. A fur-covered hand reaches out from inside it and strokes the cat, before the whole figure scrambles out to view and rises up. To the members of secluded tribes she may look strange; she stands on two feet like a humanoid, but has a wolf-like head and her whole body is covered with long brown fur. She's wearing some more furs as clothing and several stones, feathers, bones and teeth hang on strings around her neck.

Leaning to a long staff the gnoll limps a few steps forward and the young ones realize that she is quite old.
 "You took your sweet time to arrive",  she says with a growling voice and a smirk, though it could as well be a grimace.

 
 Spoiler 
A Knowledge(religion) check could tell you something about her 'trinkets'.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok carefully shrugs the elf off his shoulders and lays her down near the fire, then straightens back up and stretches; several pops can be heard.  He turns to the elderly gnoll with a look of cautious scepticism,  "You sent those dreams?" 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Religion:  (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
 

 "We were attacked, spider people."   Asha's bird settled down on her shoulder as she knelt by the fire.  As Kanok let the elf to the ground she checked the girl to make sure she was healing from her wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal Check:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok carefully shrugs the elf off his shoulders and lays her down near the fire, then straightens back up and stretches; several pops can be heard.  He turns to the elderly gnoll with a look of cautious scepticism,  "You sent those dreams?"  
 

 "Some of it",  the old gnoll replies and sits down close to the fire,  "Most of it came from a bit higher up. Very nice images, weren't they."  She eyes the members of the group.  "I  had  hoped more would come. But many don't care much for a few dreams, I see. You'll have to do then." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Religion: [roll0]
 

 "We were attacked, spider people."   Asha's bird settled down on her shoulder as she knelt by the fire.  As Kanok let the elf to the ground she checked the girl to make sure she was healing from her wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal Check: [roll1]
 
 
 

 "Oh yes, those cretins",  the gnoll says and strokes the wildcat's fur with a crooked grin on her face,  "They'd started to eat about a third that came to see me. Very bothersome." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Some of it",  the old gnoll replies and sits down close to the fire,  "Most of it came from a bit higher up. Very nice images, weren't they."  She eyes the members of the group.  "I  had  hoped more would come. But many don't care much for a few dreams, I see. You'll have to do then." 
 "Oh yes, those cretins",  the gnoll says and strokes the wildcat's fur with a crooked grin on her face,  "They'd started to eat about a third that came to see me. Very bothersome."  
 

 "A third? And you didn't think to warn us? Or were we just cleaning up your mess back there." 
Rathgar
 "Greetings, it's good to see one who is not trying to eat us.  What may be the reason for us being brought here?  It is by the blessing of Alnin that we even managed to make it this far." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "A third? And you didn't think to warn us? Or were we just cleaning up your mess back there."  
 

 " 'My mess'? " , the old gnoll growls,  "Is it my fault if a pair of web sprouting ettercaps lay their nest close to my home? Besides, I had to test you. If you couldn't hold your ground against a few forest monsters, you'd be no use to me. Or this poor doomed realm."  She rolls her eyes.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Greetings, it's good to see one who is not trying to eat us.  What may be the reason for us being brought here?  It is by the blessing of Alnin that we even managed to make it this far."  
 

 "Greetings to yourself, horse-man. Nah, I wouldn't eat you, too chewy for my old teeth."  Her wicked grin has indeed several holes as she stares at the centaur.  "Following the Lady's saner sibling, do you? Hm, wouldn't mind it if another deity took interest here, although that one is as unpredictable as the spring wind." 
Rathgar
 "Maybe so, but is it not the unpredictable spring wind that brings forth the rains that allow the land to flourish?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok furrows his brow, as if somewhat annoyed, and interrupts the theological debate,  "What threatens the land?"   He has no patience for clouded words and is in no mood for light talk.

It must be something big, if she expected the Dragon Clan warrior to fight alongside a tusked warrior.
Etherion
Aidan sits down opposite the fire from the gnoll.
 I would also like to know. What is enough of a threat to cause a gathering like this? 
MrE
Taesha leaned on her spear as they halted, still feeling stiff from the ettercap's poison, and certainly the worse for wear overall. She stared at the wolf-woman in surprise and almost leveled her weapon at the creature, but her allies' careful words calmed her.

The others all voiced her concerns though; what was this disaster that would befall the world, and how could they stop it. She did not much appreciate this woman's underhanded trick to 'test' them, but she had acquitted herself well. And regardless of her feelings, she needed to do this, for her tribe, and for the people of the world itself.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Maybe so, but is it not the unpredictable spring wind that brings forth the rains that allow the land to flourish?"  
 

The knoll snorts,  "Or thunderstorms that set the trees on fire." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok furrows his brow, as if somewhat annoyed, and interrupts the theological debate,  "What threatens the land?"   He has no patience for clouded words and is in no mood for light talk.

It must be something big, if she expected the Dragon Clan warrior to fight alongside a tusked warrior. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan sits down opposite the fire from the gnoll.
 I would also like to know. What is enough of a threat to cause a gathering like this?  
 

The gnoll stares at the fire for a while, the flames reflecting from her yellow eyes.  "You saw the devastation in the dream. The petty rivalry between the clans wouldn't cause that. At least I  hope  so. As for what would",  she barks and looks annoyed,  "I... don't know. Or at least I'm not sure." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok puzzles for a moment,  "You have gathered us; what are you planning?"   He meets her eyes, trying to discern her motives.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok puzzles for a moment,  "You have gathered us; what are you planning?"   He meets her eyes, trying to discern her motives. 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Want to roll Sense Motive?
 


The gnoll shifts her gaze to Kanok.  "I said I do not know for sure. But I do have some suspicions, they should be confirmed. Or proven wrong, if that's the case. And there are a few others, who might know more than I do, someone should ask them." 
 "Have you heard about the Dead Plains? Or ever been to Suojella mountains?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge checks can tell you something.
Arcana, History and Local about the first.
Geography, Local and Nature about the second.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Arcana: (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
History:  (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 

If I can only roll one I pick Arcana.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge checks:

Dead Plains:
 
 Spoiler 
DC 10:
 
 Spoiler 
It is a piece of barren land, located a day's journey south-east from here. According to legends, a bloody battle was once fought there, and the place is believed to be cursed.
 

DC 15:
 
 Spoiler 
Many years ago, one tribe (possibly halflings or gnomes, though it could have also been dwarves) came to posses somekind of powerful artifact. When other tribes heard of it, many wanted it for themselves, which of course resulted in a great number of hostilities and bloodshed between them. This time of discord culminated in a horrible battle that depleted many tribes of most of their warriors. And for nothing, since the artifact was lost, and the final battlefield cursed.

It is rumoured that the numerous slain warriors of humans, elves, halflings, orcs, gnolls and many others left there to rot and decay without proper burial never found true peace and still haunt the place.
 

DC 20:
 
 Spoiler 
None of you made the DC. 😛 So why are you reading this? Tsk tsk...
 

 


Suojella mountains:
 
 Spoiler 
DC 10:
 
 Spoiler 
Suojella refers to a mountainous area two days walk to the west. There are five high mountaintops, named after the four elements, the one extra simply called 'Fifth'. Some old myths refer to the mountains as elemental guardian spirits. Elves, orcs and dwarves are known to inhabit the area.
 

DC 15:
 
 Spoiler 
Two tribes of elves and three of orcs live in the area. The two races are on hostile terms, and the clans of the same race have weak alliances. Two dwarven tribes live higher and partly inside the mountains and are mostly indifferent about the others.

In addition, some winged humanoids are rumoured to live high up in the mountains, where members of the other races rarely ascend.
 

DC 20:
 
 Spoiler 
The story of elemental guardians is at least not entirely false. Elemental prophets dwell on these mountains, though the exact locations of their homes are not commonly known.

The oldest an most obscure tales claim that the mountains guard a great danger sealed within the Fifth mountain, though they are very inconsistent of its nature.
 

 

 

 
 Spoiler 
Giving you a chance to respond if you like, before she says anything else.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok scratches his bearded chin, thinking,  "I saw the mountains for the first time while coming here.  The speakers of my tribe have said much them."   With that, he puts his back to the fire and equips his shield and spear, in a non-threatening way.  He's in the habit of being vigilant.

 "They say prophets dwell on four of the peaks, and the fifth contains a great danger."   He speaks as if he knows what she's going to say next.  In fact, he has a pretty good idea.  He happens to be staring in the exact direction of Fifth peak.
Athedia
Asha spat on the ground.   "Dead Plains?  The ancestors abandoned that land.  Only a curse dwells there, fueled by the blood of so many." 
MrE
 "I know those tales,"  Taesha added after Kanok spoke.  "if our chooser does not know the nature of this oncoming disaster, maybe one of the prophets will. Or perhaps it is the danger of Fifth." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok scratches his bearded chin, thinking,  "I saw the mountains for the first time while coming here.  The speakers of my tribe have said much them."   With that, he puts his back to the fire and equips his shield and spear, in a non-threatening way.  He's in the habit of being vigilant.

 "They say prophets dwell on four of the peaks, and the fifth contains a great danger."   He speaks as if he knows what she's going to say next.  In fact, he has a pretty good idea.  He happens to be staring in the exact direction of Fifth peak. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "I know those tales,"  Taesha added after Kanok spoke.  "if our chooser does not know the nature of this oncoming disaster, maybe one of the prophets will. Or perhaps it is the danger of Fifth."  
 

 "I did not choose you",  the old gnoll says and shakes her head,  "But the one who did doesn't know how to give clear instructions.."  She snorts.  "Anyway.. So you have heard of the mountains? Yes... There is an old... seal within the Fifth. It has been there for several lifetimes and frankly, I find it hard to believe that it would have suddenly broken. ...But I can't be sure. The Lady has shown you to me, so I will tell you how to find it, if you go to check on it." 
 "The prophets... could now something or not, if you can even find them that is. I know very little of them. There is also a mortal who might have an idea of what threatens the realm, living in those mountains. This one crazy elf sage",  she spits to the fire,  "who climbed the Calm Wind* some years back, looking for winged creatures, or some other nonsense. Couldn't stand him really, but he is  old . Knows many things others have forgotten." 
 
 Spoiler 
*The most southern mountain.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha spat on the ground.   "Dead Plains?  The ancestors abandoned that land.  Only a curse dwells there, fueled by the blood of so many."  
 

 "A curse, the dead, and recently, also a  necromancer ",  she speaks the last word with hatred,  "A deformed creature he is. He and his witch mother were chased out of the tribe long ago. Just heard that he'd made the Dead Plains his home. I don't know what he's doing there, but the dead have never wished the living any good."  She growls.  "Or those who play with them. Who knows, he could well be collecting the vengeful dead that dwell there to form an army!"  The old gnoll scratches her head.  "Or maybe he just likes the company. And on the off chance that he's actually not up to mischief, it might still be useful to... have a  word  with him. As despicable as disturbing the fallen is, I admit that it might lead to knowledge that none of the living posseses. Might have to poke him with a spear to get it out though." 
 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to respond to any part of her speech you like. It doesn't matter if the conversation splits a little, the exact structure of it is not important.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok listens quietly while the old gnoll witch speaks, gazing off into the dark forest.  When she is done, he just stares off for a while, takes a drink from his waterskin, and eats a handful of berries he picked a while ago.  The thought of undead fills him with a mix of fear and fury.  He has seen walking dead, usually the corpses of tusked warriors who fell to cannibalism to survive (or so the shamans said) and emerged from their dark caves to find meat, and those were dangerous, but they didn't frighten him more than any other combatant.

No, what frightened him were the  wendigo ; horrific spirits that haunt lone travelers and lure people away from their tribes, with white fur stained with blood, antlers like a snow elk, claws like a hunting cat, and bloody jagged-bone stumps for feet.  They fly on blizzard winds, howling like tortured wolves, to carry you away into the sky and turn you into one of their own.  He heard their howls once, when he was young, during a particularly deadly winter storm.  He still occasionally has nightmares about it.  He suppresses a shiver.

He doubts that this ..."necro-mancer" is the coming calamity that the dreams warned of, but the thought of someone intentionally creating or summoning the un-dead is an affront to Fern and nature itself, and fills him with disgust and anger besides.  If nothing else, Kanok wants to take the opportunity to stop such things while he can, the sooner the better, and the gnoll is right, he may in fact know something that they don't.  Poke him with a spear indeed.  Kanok smirks.  That mountain isn't going anywhere anyway.

Without turning, he speaks,  "Tell us all you know of this 'necromancer' and his mother." 
Athedia
Asha gripped Giants Fear tightly.    "The ancestors are to be respected! Not enslaved.  Only those worthy can come back, and only to help their descendants.  He messes with the very order of life."   Even though he was only using the bodies of the dead it still creeped her out.   "Though I suppose it is better because it is not his own tribe." 
Rathgar
 "Where on this mountain might we find this 'crazy elf'.  And what might the name of his be?  It might help us in speaking with him is we know his name.  And for that matter, what might your name be, good lady?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Without turning, he speaks,  "Tell us all you know of this 'necromancer' and his mother."  
 

 "The mother was a witch, played mostly with mirages and charms of what I remember. Don't know where she learned that, it's not the kind of magic practiced in our tribe and it surely didn't make her popular. You see, they only value straightforward strength in my old tribe."

"Anyway, then she had that monster child. Nobody knew who was the father, but it certainly wasn't a gnoll. Eventually they were chased out to die in the wild. But it seems they didn't, guess the her illusions had their uses. Though she should be dead now, since it's been so long. I was but a whelp back then." 

The old gnoll snorts again.  "But now the son has decided to disturb the fallen. Truly, I would very much like to know where they've learned these bothersome magics; remember to ask that if you go after him. I've asked the Lady of the Moons myself, but never got a sensibly reply." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha gripped Giants Fear tightly.    "The ancestors are to be respected! Not enslaved.  Only those worthy can come back, and only to help their descendants.  He messes with the very order of life."   Even though he was only using the bodies of the dead it still creeped her out.   "Though I suppose it is better because it is not his own tribe."  
 

The gnoll bursts into barking laughter.  "Girl, nearly every tribe has ancestors laying around in that gods forsaken place. It was a bloodbath, the battle in the old times, the grimmest tales describe the gorgeous banquet that the crows feasted on later,"  she scratces her chin, thinking,  "Hm, okay, a few did stay out of it, but our tribe was definitely involved." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Where on this mountain might we find this 'crazy elf'.  And what might the name of his be?  It might help us in speaking with him is we know his name.  And for that matter, what might your name be, good lady?"  
 

The gnoll rises her eyebrows, as if surprised that Tuntematon asked,  "I am Kell, this one's Shun,"  she points to the cat.  "As for the elf, you'll need to climb Calm Wind to find him. Don't think he ever came down. The locals could probably tell you more, though I'd ask the dwarves if I were you. The elves and the orcs are not fond of strangers, though they like each other even less." 
 "Oh, his name? ...Guess he must've had one",  Kell scratches her head and is silent for a while,  "...Maybe it was Alerin. Or Alunor. Hmh, something like that." 
MrE
 "The necromancer was of your tribe?"  Taesha asked surprised, the woman had not offered that to begin with. Perhaps this woman was not quite as good as she pretended: did she seek the help of other tribes to correct the mistakes of her own. Then again, Taesha knew she should not judge this woman on the betrayals her tribe had suffered. No Taesha knew all too well that sometimes people fell to darkness even in a tribe that meant well.

She also held no grudge against the necromancer for his art: after all her tribe knew what it was to be judged by outsiders for their powers. In a sense she shaped the souls of the dead, but the dead belonged to no one. Their energy had returned to nature and nourished the world until they were reborn.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok nods at Kell's request.  Otherwise, he just stares off into the forest, listening to the others speak and thinking to himself.  All of this was a lot to take in; a mere tenday ago, he had no idea he'd ever leave the forest he was born in.
Etherion
After a minute of listening to the ongoing conversation, Aidan asks a question.

 What is this seal you speak of? What does it seal? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "The necromancer was of your tribe?"  Taesha asked surprised, the woman had not offered that to begin with. 
 

The gnoll nods.  "Originally yes, but he was just a whelp too when he and the witch were banished. I rarely visit the tribe myself these days, I find the lot tiresome." 

Stiira creeps closer as the others talk, and also sits by the fire. When the conversation quiets down for a moment, she mumbles something. Kell turns to look at her and frowns.  "If you've got something to say, speak so I can hear!" 
Stiira flinches a bit, but manages to force her words out.  "..zy elf, elemental prophets, a n-necromancer... Are there anyone else who might... know...  something?"  

Kell snorts, but considers the question,  "I know a few other seers of the Mad Lady, but I doubt they have any more knowledge or insight than  I  do."  She looks a bit self-important when saying this.  "...The druids of the Circle could know something, but it depends much on who you talk to." 

 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 After a minute of listening to the ongoing conversation, Aidan asks a question.

 What is this seal you speak of? What does it seal?  
 

Kell shakes her head,  "I don't think no one knows for sure anymore. The tales only speak of a great danger inside the Fifth mountain, that is guarded by the four elements. And I'm not sure if the latter part is even true, they could have mixed it up with the myths of the prophets. But I've been there once, and it looked like a seal. Though I'm not sure if it is one that keeps something in... or out." 
Athedia
 "A mountain.... I have never been on a mountain before.  Do they have trees, tree's are not fun." 
Etherion
 Well, I say we go check on this seal, then pay that necromancer a visit. Anyone willing to defy the laws of nature like that should be dealt with. 
MrE
 "I agree. The Seal sounds as though it could cause such a disaster, and even if it is not to blame for what will happen, then plenty of sages live upon the heights." 
CWater
 "Up to the mountains then? You'll have to cross the Hunter's River. It is high now, but Shun will lead you where it should be lowest. She will not touch the water though, so after that you'll be on your own." 
 
 Spoiler 
Kell also gives you other directions to the mountains, and where to find the cave to the Fifth's seal. I'll elaborate when the time comes.

I'll try to draw at least a rudimentary map about the area someday soon. As stated earlier, the mountains are two days journey away (unless you force march), and the druid grove is somewhat in the same direction, 2 days away from here. Also, Kell estimates that it would take about one day to travel from the grove to the mountains.

You can travel on your normal speed through forest that is not particularly thick even if there is no trail. (The logic behind it is that in aworld without roads, you're used to walking in the wilderness.😉)
 

 "But you  khahjaki  see poorly in the dark. Better you rest 'til morning. You need not worry, Shun will keep watch",  Kell smirks and pats the wildcat. Then she gets up and proceeds to scramble back to her hut.

 
 Spoiler 
Entirely up to you how much you choose to trust her.😛

Ah, as I said before, the spring is far enough so you can sleep without taking any damage from the cold, but a shelter might make you less grumpy in the morning.😉
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok watches the old gnoll amble into her tiny hut, thinking that this place must be safe if the likes of her can survive here with no visible defenses; perhaps she is feared?  The fire should keep away dumb beasts, anyway.

He spends a few minutes taking off the Dragonskin, then places it between himself and the fire (it won't burn).  He puts his weapons and shield in a pile between himself and Fang, then lays on the ground while clutching his spear, and goes to sleep.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm assuming the wounded elf is either in the hut with the gnoll who totally won't eat her, or else in whatever structures or blankets the rest of you make/have.  Kanok is a neanderthal next to a fire, so he is perfectly fine.

The next morning, Kanok will ask the gnoll if she knows which tribe the elf is from, and if they live near the mountains.
 
Etherion
Aidan sets up a small shelter, then goes to sleep.

 
 Spoiler 
Survival roll if necessary:
 (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 
Rathgar
Reflecting upon all the strange things he'd encountered this day, Tuntematon grabbed his small portable shelter off of his sledge and set it up, giving him a good place to sleep tonight.
CWater
The evening gives way to the night, and eventually the morning pushes the latter away too. The sun greets the world with pleasant rays light, but is soon hidden away from sight again when mist engulfs the area. There are only embers left of the fire and it is a bit chilly, but results in nothing worse than maybe slight stiffness in the limbs. And a maybe a running nose, if one is unlucky.

The forest is louder today, its many bird inhabitants performing a fine concert. The first of the party to wake up can also hear some faint sobbing coming from nearby. Looking around, they can see that the elf has woken up and crawled to sit next to a tree, some feet away from the hut.

 
 Spoiler 
First morning in the campaign!😛 Please state your spells &amp; other various powers of the day.
 
Athedia
Asha walked over to the elf, leaving Fear on her bedroll.  She didn't have to worry about Malphas's taunts at the moment, he had departed sometime in the night.  Holding her hands up to show she had no weaponry, she knelt down.   "I am Asha.  We were attacked by the spiders as well.  You and a halfling were saved." 
 
 Spoiler 
Will post the binding after this.
 
CWater
The elf just stares at Asha for a while. Then she lets her gaze drop.
 "Oh... So that's how I am alive." 
 "Did you kill them?" 
Athedia
 "The spider people yes, the actual spider ran away.  I am better at catching bodies than climbing trees and could not pursue.  Though the tree you were in was set on fire by mistake so I doubt they will be going back.  Where are your people?" 
CWater
The elf just stares at the ground.  "They live days away from here, in the mountains. But I cannot go back, I was banished for defying the elders." 

She throws a quick glance at her leg that is missing a half, but can't stand looking at it too long.  "...And I guess they were right. The gods have punished me. It would be better if I had died." 
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I'm afraid she's a bit gloomy about her situation.
 
Seharvepernfan
Woken up by the talking, Kanok slowly rolls into a sitting position and scratches Fang's head.  Without looking at her, he speaks,  "We stole you from the mouth of death's cave, if it were better that you had died, you would be dead.  The gods want you here." 
 
 Spoiler 
No changes to spells.
 
Athedia
Asha started to draw out a circle as she spoke, shooing away any who tried to step on or near it.   "Don't be stupid.  The greatest of ancestors have had worse things done to them."   Standing back she looked down at the design.  Sitting next to the design on the ground Asha started to scarf down her food, taking a long drinks from her mug between bites.  Experience had taught her this was the best move before binding with Ronove.  She had been a strict teacher in her time, believing in the mind over the body.  Asha thought this a little foolish, her body didn't like her just THINKING she was full.

Mouth full she continued to speak.  "Elders are important, but you are in your change years.  My tribe just sends youths like you on their Task.   Becoming an adult usually solves those issues."   She swallowed the last bite of food, standing up picking crumbs off her shirt and eating them.   "If you can make it to my tribe we take in strays.  They will figure out something."   She took a deep breath and walked over to the sign on the ground.

 "Uh, Ronove?  Care to make a deal?"   She squinted at the circle stomach clenched as she prepared for the site of the wood carved box and what was possessed inside.

 
 Spoiler 
Just making the Binder check here vs DC 15  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
I figured she is used to making a bad pact with Ronove so she always eats a lot before calling her.  I am changing the iron coffin to a wooden one and if you want to be Ronove that is fine.

How I think Ronove is, but you can make up your own mind is that she is more stubborn and lectures Asha a lot.
 
Rathgar
After finishing his morning prayers to Anlin, Tuntematon trotted over to where the injured elf was.

 "Greetings, strange traveler.  I am Tuntematon, bearer of the Word of Anlin.  It would seem you have had a string of bad luck.  You aren't entirely out of luck, though.  Anlin willing, we can find a way to help you, though it may be a strange and difficult journey." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Woken up by the talking, Kanok slowly rolls into a sitting position and scratches Fang's head.  Without looking at her, he speaks,  "We stole you from the mouth of death's cave, if it were better that you had died, you would be dead.  The gods want you here."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 After finishing his morning prayers to Anlin, Tuntematon trotted over to where the injured elf was.

 "Greetings, strange traveler.  I am Tuntematon, bearer of the Word of Anlin.  It would seem you have had a string of bad luck.  You aren't entirely out of luck, though.  Anlin willing, we can find a way to help you, though it may be a strange and difficult journey."  
 

 "My name is Eldien, and... I thank you for saving me."  The elf hangs her head.  But I am... crippled. What kind of life can I have anymore.. 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha started to draw out a circle as she spoke, shooing away any who tried to step on or near it.   "Don't be stupid.  The greatest of ancestors have had worse things done to them."   Standing back she looked down at the design.  Sitting next to the design on the ground Asha started to scarf down her food, taking a long drinks from her mug between bites.  Experience had taught her this was the best move before binding with Ronove.  She had been a strict teacher in her time, believing in the mind over the body.  Asha thought this a little foolish, her body didn't like her just THINKING she was full.

Mouth full she continued to speak.  "Elders are important, but you are in your change years.  My tribe just sends youths like you on their Task.   Becoming an adult usually solves those issues."   She swallowed the last bite of food, standing up picking crumbs off her shirt and eating them.   "If you can make it to my tribe we take in strays.  They will figure out something."   She took a deep breath and walked over to the sign on the ground.

 "Uh, Ronove?  Care to make a deal?"   She squinted at the circle stomach clenched as she prepared for the site of the wood carved box and what was possessed inside. 
 

There is a small thundering sound and the ground shakes a little, before a wooden coffin bursts up from its depths, throwing dust and tufts of grass around. It remains hanging in the air, a foot above the ground and the face painted on the lid gazes down at Asha with a strict expression. When the ghostly voice speaks, the painted lips move to match the words.
 "I have answered you summon, child." 

The face frowns at the remaining crumbs on Asha's clothes.  "But I see you still do not believe in what I teach. The body is but a vessel, almost an illusion. The only thing that truly matters is the mind. A strong will can shape the world."  Asha gets the feeling that if the thing in the coffin had a foot, she would be tapping it.


The elf stares at the strange sight with wide eyes.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 There is a small thundering sound and the ground shakes a little, before a wooden coffin bursts up from its depths, throwing dust and tufts of grass around. It remains hanging in the air, a foot above the ground and the face painted on the lid gazes down at Asha with a strict expression. When the ghostly voice speaks, the painted lips move to match the words.
 "I have answered you summon, child." 

The face frowns at the remaining crumbs on Asha's clothes.  "But I see you still do not believe in what I teach. The body is but a vessel, almost an illusion. The only thing that truly matters is the mind. A strong will can shape the world."  Asha gets the feeling that if the thing in the coffin had a foot, she would be tapping it.


The elf stares at the strange sight with wide eyes. 
 

 "Ronove"  Asha groaned rolling her eyes.   "You do this every time.  Anyway, normal deal 24 hours, you get to lecture me as much as you please and I don't die falling out of any more trees."  She caught Eldien staring at the binding.   "Ronove, your will wouldn't know anything about helping people missing a leg walk would it?" 
Rathgar
The centaur was shocked at the thing that just burst out in front of him.   "What in the blazes is that?!  Ronove?!  I have never seen anything like this before!  Truly, Anlin's bounty abounds these days!" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Ronove"  Asha groaned rolling her eyes.   "You do this every time.  Anyway, normal deal 24 hours, you get to lecture me as much as you please and I don't die falling out of any more trees."  She caught Eldien staring at the binding.   "Ronove, your will wouldn't know anything about helping people missing a leg walk would it?"  
 

 "The leg, like the lack of it, is but an illusion your misguided senses are feeding you. If she would believe that she does not truly need it to walk, she would." 
 "As for your proposal, I shall accept it today. I consider it my duty to take every opportunity to coach young minds to become stronger and steadier. And it seems that I also need to remind you that one loses nothing in being polite." 

After saying the last words the lid of the coffin flies open and a cloud of black smoke spills out of it towards Asha. A skeletal body can be seen to remain inside for a moment, before the bones fall down and crumble to ash. The surrounding coffin collapses similarly and soon nothing remains of Ronove's visit to this world, except for the small patch of rummaged earth where the circle was drawn.
Athedia
Asha spun around to glare at the centaur.   "Don't invoke your dead gods.  Ronove is one of the ancestors, you should show her respect.  She was far greater than your Anlin when he was alive." 
 
 Spoiler 
She does not like that attribution 😛
 


Asha gasped as she felt the pact take affect.  Her face fixed itself into a frown for a second, Ronove's displeasure at not being able to fully control her pupils behavior evident.  A quick shake of the head and Asha's face reverted to the normal features.    Thank you Ronove.  From these peoples reactions they have never seen an ancestor before."    Using her foot Asha scratched out the last of the summoning marks.
Etherion
Aidan stares at the coffin in disbelief, and when it disappears, he turns towards Asha.

 What was that thing? 
Rathgar
 "I still don't understand why you believe that Anlin is dead.  While hän's obscured, even to many of the other gods, Anlin's power is real.  Once again, how else do you explain the miracles that she provides for me?" 

Tuntematon turned to the elf.   "Eldien, it is good to meet you.  I think I may have a solution for you.  One of the elders in my village was a great centaur, and he made many beautiful carvings in wood.  That got me to thinking.  However, I lack the skill he possessed.  Does anyone here know anything of that art?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "I still don't understand why you believe that Anlin is dead.  While hän's obscured, even to many of the other gods, Anlin's power is real.  Once again, how else do you explain the miracles that she provides for me?" 

Tuntematon turned to the elf.   "Eldien, it is good to meet you.  I think I may have a solution for you.  One of the elders in my village was a great centaur, and he made many beautiful carvings in wood.  That got me to thinking.  However, I lack the skill he possessed.  Does anyone here know anything of that art?"  
 

 "So you shame your ancestors by denying the power they grant you?  What is wrong with your tribe that they allow the children to act in such a way." 
Seharvepernfan
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The elf stares at the strange sight with wide eyes. 
 

As does Kanok.  He did not realize he was traveling with a witch who deals with spirits and demons.  Fang growls at the thing for the duration of it's visit, and Kanok does not try to calm him.  Instead, he grips his spear, unconsciously preparing for battle.

After Tuntematon speaks, Kanok looks at him blankly for a moment, making sure he understands the little centaur.   "How would it attach?" 
MrE
When Taesha woke that morning she released her soulmelds without reluctance. AS the others prepared in the morning they would have seen Taesha looking more human than they had ever seen her. But it did not last long, as the witch Asha was binding her spirit creature, Taesha sat upon a rock and meditated.

Colours swirled in the air around her, pulsing brighter then becoming dimmer as she drew the energy of nature into her soulmelds. They were the same as the previous day: claws and boots to cut, the shirt that let her pass through the walls of the world and the wisp that guarded her.

 
 Spoiler 
Soulmelds: Landshark Boots (expanded Soumeld Capacity) (Totem Chakra Bind)
Totem Avatar
Blink Shirt
 


She watched Asha's conversation with the others with interest. She revered her own ancestors, and their strength was the source of her own in a way. But she had never seen one rise, fully formed as Ronove had.  I believe it to be a spirit masquerading as an ancestor , Taesha decided, but she did not voice her disagreement.
Rathgar
 "O.K., firstly, I did nothing to disrespect those who came before.  The only one I disrespected actually was Anlin.  I referred to Anlin as "she", for assigning a gender to Anlin is truly disrespectful.  Secondly, our ancestors never appeared before us.  Dead is dead.  Or at least that's how we typically thought of it.  We'd remember them, and they may even guide us, but still.  If you are dead, you have no physical shape.  Once again, that is how we saw it back in our tribe.  Obviously, you have some powerful something on your side, and apparently he's your ancestor.  He didn't quite look that much like you, though.  No feet.

"As for the wood, I...don't know.  We might cross that ford when we get to it.  Maybe a leather thong to tie it to the elf's stump?" 
CWater
Stiira prepares her spells by tapping her small drum in an uneven rythm. Sometimes one of the runes painted on the drum glows for a moment.
 
 Spoiler 
Stiira's spells are updated on her sheet.
 


When Asha performs her binding ritual, the halfling runs to hide behind tree, and doesn't come back before the coffin and the smoke have disappeared. She eyes Asha warily.

Kell who scrambles out from the hut on the other hand only raises an eyebrow before letting out a huge yawn.  "A misty morning, how fitting. I see your up and ready to go? Oh, even pointy-ears is awake." 
 
 Spoiler 
So, what to do with the elf? A few of you said that your clans could help her. You could for example give her directions where to go and leave her to make her choice. Or you could take her with you. Your choice.🙂
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Stiira prepares her spells by tapping her small drum in an uneven rythm. Sometimes one of the runes painted on the drum glows for a moment.
 
 Spoiler 
Stiira's spells are updated on her sheet.
 


When Asha performs her binding ritual, the halfling runs to hide behind tree, and doesn't come back before the coffin and the smoke have disappeared. She eyes Asha warily.

Kell who scrambles out from the hut on the other hand only raises an eyebrow before letting out a huge yawn.  "A misty morning, how fitting. I see your up and ready to go? Oh, even pointy-ears is awake." 
 
 Spoiler 
So, what to do with the elf? A few of you said that your clans could help her. You could for example give her directions where to go and leave her to make her choice. Or you could take her with you. Your choice.🙂
 
 
 

Asha watched Stiira come out from behind the tree.   "Really?What is it with you and hiding behind trees?"   Ignoring the centaur she knelt by the elf again.   "As I said my tribe would take you in.  If you think you can make it I can tell you the way." 
CWater
 "...I'm not sure. I... might die on the way." 
 
 Spoiler 
Don't listen to her, this is a possible option. 😏
 
Athedia
 "So might we.  You could also die staying here or going away.  I don't really see the difference.  Anyway wouldn't you be safer with more people around you.  We can set another forest on fire to scare away anything that attacks." 
Etherion
 I would prefer if we kept the forests intact, thank you. 
Rathgar
 "In any case, let's attempt the test of this new thing I've come up with.  I'll call it the woodhoof.  I insist that we take you with us until it is finished, then you can do as you wish.  You can't handle it out in this woods alone with one leg.  It must be hard enough when you only have two." 
CWater
 "A leg... of wood?"  The elf looks perplexed.  "How could that be possible?" 

Kell just snorts.  "Younglings and their crazy ideas... Well, are you going to stand around here gaping all day? Shun is getting impatient, she needs to take you to the river before she can go hunting again." 
 
 Spoiler 
Ready to leave?
 
Athedia
Asha moved forward, putting her arm under the elves to lift her up.   "Ronove makes me faster so I can help you.  Either that or these people are just going to slow me down." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok knows that the weak do not survive, but was raised to protect the other members of his tribe; the tribe is strength.  While this young elf may not be of his tribe, neither were the other members of this group, yet he is helping them.  Regardless, they wish to bring along the elf, and he does not want to be slowed down.  She may prove useful if they encounter any elves.  Besides, he cannot deny that he feels sympathy for her.

He walks up to Asha and Eldien, physically makes it clear that he will do this, and lifts the elf up to carry her in his arms.  She is too large to ride on his shoulders for a distance, and she could not ride boar-back since she is missing a leg.

 "We will see if Tunta's idea works for you." 
MrE
 "I would suggest you stay with us,"  she shot a distrustful glance at Kell: she would not leave the elf here.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok knows that the weak do not survive, but was raised to protect the other members of his tribe; the tribe is strength.  While this young elf may not be of his tribe, neither were the other members of this group, yet he is helping them.  Regardless, they wish to bring along the elf, and he does not want to be slowed down.  She may prove useful if they encounter any elves.  Besides, he cannot deny that he feels sympathy for her.

He walks up to Asha and Eldien, physically makes it clear that he will do this, and lifts the elf up to carry her in his arms.  She is too large to ride on his shoulders for a distance, and she could not ride boar-back since she is missing a leg.

 "We will see if Tunta's idea works for you."  
 

 "You will just be slowed down.  This way I will be slowed instead and not wait for the group to catch up to me.  She needs to strengthen her leg anyway.  Carrying with only make her weak." 
CWater
The party collects their supplies and the crippled elf, and proceeds to follow Shun the wildcat to the forest once again. Kell stands by her hut, and she seems to remain there looking after them until they get too far to tell.

The mist starts to wane away as the day progresses and when they reach the stream around noon, it is gone entirely.

The Hunter's River is not a small river, and the melting snow from the mountains has made it grow even wider and colder. Shun stops to sit down on a tree branch at its edge and lets out a familiar roar. The group realizes that the ford is flooded too.

 
 Spoiler 
You can still cross, but it might require some checks.😏

I'll post the specific rules for this case if the prospect of getting wet doesn't scare you.😛
 
CWater
After a brief discussion about how to proceed, Asha lends Kanok her stretchy Troll Gut rope. The neanderthal takes off his dragonhide armour and ties the rope around himself, the other end is tied to a nearby tree. Then he decends to the overgrown river. The water is cold, though not as freezing as in the rivers up in the north. Being a good swimmer, Stiira follows him to the water, though since the current is strong, she holds on to the rope too so it won't sweep her away.

 
 Spoiler 
The river is 60 ft. wide at the ford. Without the armour hindering his movements, Kanok can swim across by taking 10.
 


They make it across and tie the rope to a tree on the other side.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira can stay by the rope on this side, I understood that Kanok was going to go back?
 
CWater
Most of the party is able to eventually cross the river. But on his last trip across Kanok feels something grab his foot when he's in the middle of the stream. Without further ceremony, it tries to drag him underwater.

 
 Spoiler 
He can hold on to the rope, but has to make an opposed Str check.
?: [roll0]
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
In the lighter blue squares, a medium sized creature can reach the bottom. There should be a little more of those by the river banks, I'll add them to the next one, though they shouldn't matter.

Should you choose to re-enter the water, you can move half your speed there. If you are adjacent to the rope (and holding on to it) no checks are needed.

Otherwise Swim: DC 10 to stay afloat, DC 15 to move.
Swim checks can be made by anyone, though to take 10 you will need to have at least 1 rank. Also, unless you spend some of your movement to fight it, the current will move you 10 ft. downstream.

In the light blue squares you might be able to wade through, but you need to make a Str check DC 10 or risk being swept of your feet by the current.
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19 
 "Woah, Kanok, are you O.K.?  Wait, I have an idea!"   With that, the centaur decided to look for a fairly solid looking branch, grab it, and run out to the shallows in an attempt to pull the neanderthal free from the snag in the river.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Search/Spot for a branch
Move as close to Kanok as possible if actions left

Rolls:
 Search Check (If Ruled As Search):   (1d20+1)[ 18 ] 
 Spot Check (If Ruled as Spot):   (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 Strength Check To Resist Current (If Enough Actions):   (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok is able to keep his head above the water surface, holding on to the rope. But whatever is attached to his right foot doesn't let go.

 
 Spoiler 
Initiative:

Kanok:  (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 16 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
?:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 

1. Kanok, Aidan, Asha, Tuntematon, Stiira
2. ?
3. Taesha

(1. and 3. block will merge after the water thingy's turn.)
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok will not be eaten by a fish.  Fury courses into his heart, strength flows into his arms, and with a face contorted in rage, teeth clenched, Kanok hauls on the rubbery rope with all his considerable might.  He will drag this damn fish out of the water if he has to.

 
 Spoiler 
He rages, and attempts to pull himself towards the far shore (where everybody except Asha is).

 Strength:   (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
and if he needs it:
 Climb:   (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Opposed Str check:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 

If it's lower than Kanok's, he is able to move 10 ft. forward and reach the light blue area. (Q37)
 


With his powerful arms Kanok is able to pull himself forward, however, the thing around his ankle is not letting go. It feels a bit like a slimy rope.
Etherion
 Kanok, are you alright? 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok roars at the group,  "BACK!  Away from the water!" 
Athedia
 "Yeah right, leave you to drown and me stranded on this side? I don't think so!"   Asha switched Fear for one of the shortspears on her back.  It would be okay to loose one of those to whatever held Kanok, but Fear was a treasure, she would not risk it in the water.

 
 Spoiler 
2 move actions so she is up for now.
 
CWater
The thing around Kanok's foot is still trying to pull him under.
 
 Spoiler 
Str:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] . Seharv, you can roll the opposed check here or in OOC.
 


Suddenly, all vegetation in the shallow and near it starts to move, trying to bind the party where they stand.

 
 Spoiler 
All except Asha and Tuntematon (who had went to find a suitable loose branch), Ref save DC 13 or become entangled.

Oh, and Spot checks. Let's see if anyone's got sharp eyes.
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
The lively vegetation is in the turquoise and olive squares. Ah, forgot the elf again, she's in the area too and entangled.
 
 
CWater
Taesha and Tuntematon notice a slight break in the water surface about ten feet away from Kanok. Teasha can even spot a dark shape right below the surface.

 
 Spoiler 
You can alert others to its location, that's why I'm already posting this now even if everyone have not made their rolls. The suspicious square is O37. Whatever is in there has concealment (20% miss chance), but at least you have located it.

Though since Taesha rolled so high, the concealment doesn't apply to her  this round .
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Starting Position: T43 Ending Postion: 043 

Just then the centaur prophet noticed a dark shape in the water.   "There, in the water!  It's a...it's a...something!  That's probably what has Kanok!  Let us try to convince it that he is a meal that's not worth it!"   And with that, Tuntematon let loose a sling bullet at the murky shape.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move 25 ft.
Standard Action: Attack the shape in the water

Rolls:
 Attack Shape With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 Extra Damage From Critical (If needed):   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 Miss Chance (Low Roll Misses):   (1d100)[ 42 ] 
 
Etherion
As the vegetation grabs at him, Aidan jumps backwards.
 
 Spoiler 
Move to P43
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok, focusing on one task alone, pulls on that witch-crafted rope with all his strength.  If he can just make it to the shore...

 
 Spoiler 

 Strength:   (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
if necessary:
 Climb:   (1d20+10)[ 18 ] 
 Reflex:   (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 Spot:   (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha hefted her spear and hurled it at the shape beneath the surface, hoping to end the thing that threatened Kanok.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack roll:  (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
Damage  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok manages to pull himself forward and whatever holding his foot loses its grip.

The stone hurled by Tuntematon hits something and takes one extra jump before sinking to the water. Taesha's spear hits the dark shape solidly and it disappears from sight taking the weapon with it. A moment later, the vegetation stops moving. Suddenly everything is calm again, except for the steadily flowing river.

A few seconds later Taesha's spear surfaces and starts to drift downstream.

 
 Spoiler 
It comes up in O35 and moves to the right 10 ft/round.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok surges out of the water as soon as the thing lets go of him, draws his spear from across his back, and turns to face the water again, scanning it's surface for any sign of threat, his eyes wild and face grim.  He stands somewhat hunched over, with a wide stance, and his muscles are taut.

 
 Spoiler 
One move action to reach the "shore" and draw his spear, another to spot.

 Spot:   (1d20+9)[ 12 ] 

Still raging.
 
CWater
Kanok does not notice anything suspicious. The river is as if nothing strange happened at all.
Athedia
Asha looked at the dog next to her and then at the river.   "Anyone coming to get him?" 
Seharvepernfan
After scanning the water for a few solid minutes, even if others prod him with questions, Kanok finally winds down and puts his spear away.  He motions for Asha to raise the rope on her side, and he does so on his side.  Once that is done, he pulls himself up on the rope, wrapping his legs around it so that he can sort of slide along underneath it.  He then crosses the river again.

 
 Spoiler 
 Climb:   (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
If necessary.

Once on the other side...he scratches his head and wonders how he is going to do this.  He considers trying to pick Fang up and carry him across, but shakes his head and dismisses the idea.  He tells Asha to just climb across; he'll swim back with the rope tied around himself and Fang.  Hopefully that  thing  learned it's lesson.

He instructs her to have somebody keep the rope taut as he comes across, and to be sure to have weapons ready.
 
Athedia
 "Climbing?"   Asha looked at the river and gulped.  She hated climbing, it never ended well for her.  But she stood up, grabbing the rope and preparing to cross.

 
 Spoiler 
Climb:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 


This time it went more smoothly, her knees hitched around the rope as she clambered to the other side.
CWater
Kanok and Fang swim cross the river last, the rope with them. The last sudden attack has surely not been forgotten... but to everyone's relief, they are able to get to the other side without another incident.

 
 Spoiler 
Good crossing.🙂 The rope was a good idea, let's ust say... that it saved you a lot of trouble.

300 XP for all.
 


Now the group has a choice to make. Follow the river west towards the mountains, or head north and try to find the druids of the Circle.
Athedia
As Asha got the the other side she pulled one of the spare spears off her back and offered it to Taesha.   "It isn't much, but did lose yours." 
Etherion
 Everyone alright? 
MrE
 "Thank you,"  Taesha replies, nodding to Asha has the spear is handed over.  "I will try not to be so careless with this one."

"I believe we were heading to the mountains. That is still our plan is it not?" 
CWater
The elf looks frightened at Taesha.  "You're taking me back to the mountains?! They'll kill me if a I go back!" 
 
 Spoiler 
It's possible she should have known where you were going, but for convenience sake, I'll say she hadn't paid attention earlier.
 
Athedia
 "Wait what?"   Asha stared at the elf.   "Are you one of the sages?  Why didn't you say so earlier?" 
CWater
 "Uh.. No, I... meant my tribe. I am banished from the mountains." 
 "Are you looking for the prophets?" 
Athedia
Asha thought for a second then went into her pack, pulling out an old box with some hand carved vessels inside.  Beneath them lay a small dagger which she pulled out.   "I did offer you a place in my tribe did I not?  And come to think of it, you being a child of the tribe would speed things up.  And the oldest member of the tribe present at a child's 'birth' is allowed to perform the ritual."   She stabbed the dagger into her left hand, wincing as it pierced the flesh.

 "You... may not like this."   She mixed the blood with the fingers of her right hand and then held them to the elfs face.  Trancing a line above each eyebrow and then a circle on each of the hands of the elf she knelt by her, still dripping blood out the wound.   "Ancestors watch this child and allow her to live, grow and help your tribe.  May she journey with the knowledge of your minds and the skill of your hands." 

Standing up Asha pressed her hand to her other arm, using the skin to stem the bleeding.   "My tribe is not banished from the mountains, and you are under their protection now." 
 
 Spoiler 
Usually the ritual is done at birth, but it is also done to those adopted into the tribe.  Damage roll for the dagger  (1d6+2)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha thought for a second then went into her pack, pulling out an old box with some hand carved vessels inside.  Beneath them lay a small dagger which she pulled out.   "I did offer you a place in my tribe did I not?  And come to think of it, you being a child of the tribe would speed things up.  And the oldest member of the tribe present at a child's 'birth' is allowed to perform the ritual."   She stabbed the dagger into her left hand, wincing as it pierced the flesh.

 "You... may not like this."   She mixed the blood with the fingers of her right hand and then held them to the elfs face.  Trancing a line above each eyebrow and then a circle on each of the hands of the elf she knelt by her, still dripping blood out the wound.   "Ancestors watch this child and allow her to live, grow and help your tribe.  May she journey with the knowledge of your minds and the skill of your hands." 

Standing up Asha pressed her hand to her other arm, using the skin to stem the bleeding.   "My tribe is not banished from the mountains, and you are under their protection now."  
 

Eldien is too dumbstruck by Asha initation to protest. She stares at the circle's of blood on her hands.  "Under... their protection?" , she looks at the binder with a confused face,  "But... Why? Why would you, or your tribe, do this for me?" 
 
 Spoiler 

 Usually the ritual is done at birth, but it is also done to those adopted into the tribe.  Damage roll for the dagger [roll0] 

Ouch.. She didn't go easy on herself there.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Eldien is too dumbstruck by Asha initation to protest. She stares at the circle's of blood on her hands.  "Under... their protection?" , she looks at the binder with a confused face,  "But... Why? Why would you, or your tribe, do this for me?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Ouch.. She didn't go easy on herself there.
 
 
 

 "You are our child now.  If we failed to protect the children we would not be a very good tribe.  The ancestors let you survive the spiders, they must have some plan for you.  Especially since they saw fit to use me as the cushion." 
CWater
 "But...",  Eldien starts, but goes quiet then, without finishing the sentence. She lets Asha help her up, so they can continue forward.

The party follows the river, towards the mountains that rise in the west. They can get the occasional glimpse of them through the trees when they pass over a hill or the like, but for the most time, the river is their best landmark. When the dusk arrives though, they are not too far away from the closest peak.

 
 Spoiler 
Anything else you'd like to do or say before you rest for the night? Since you're in a thriving forest, you can take 10 if you wan to go hunting. (Or you can roll.) Also, the elf comes from the mountains, so if you have questions about them, she might be able to answer.
 
Seharvepernfan
At some point while carrying Eldien through the forest, Kanok begins to speak,  "Why were you banished?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Taking 10 on survival while others are making camp.

Can I make a survival check with Aidan aiding me, to find a safe camping spot that's not likely to get ambushed by wild dire chinchillas?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 At some point while carrying Eldien through the forest, Kanok begins to speak,  "Why were you banished?"   
 

Eldien looks down.  "I... showed mercy when I shouldn't have. I thought I was doing the right thing even if the elders were angry, but... the gods have showed me otherwise." 

  
 Spoiler 
Taking 10 on survival while others are making camp.

Can I make a survival check with Aidan aiding me, to find a safe camping spot that's not likely to get ambushed by wild dire chinchillas?
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Etherion said Aidan would like to make some arrows, but Taesha is free to help him if she wants to.

You can roll or take 10.
 
Etherion
Aidan goes to collect some materials, then proceeds to make some arrows.
 
 Spoiler 
Craft check:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
 "To who?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Taking 10 on finding a good camp.
 
MrE
Taesha listened to the elf as she was helped along by the others.  "When is mercy a crime?"  she asked, adding her confusion to the group's. Once your enemy was defeated that was enough, that was taught from an early age.
CWater
 " 'We should not show mercy to our enemies, since they show none to us either, and it would only benefit their fight against us.' This is what the elders said. And I guess I was foolish to think otherwise. Even if... even if I did so exactly because this same creature had spared my life in the past. I felt ...that it would be dishonorable not to do the same." 

The party comes across a suitable campsite by a large rock, that could provide a little cover from one sde. There are signs that the place has been used as a resting place before, though the newest traces are at least a fortnight old.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  " 'We should not show mercy to our enemies, since they show none to us either, and it would only benefit their fight against us.' This is what the elders said. And I guess I was foolish to think otherwise. Even if... even if I did so exactly because this same creature had spared my life in the past. I felt ...that it would be dishonorable not to do the same." 

The party comes across a suitable campsite by a large rock, that could provide a little cover from one sde. There are signs that the place has been used as a resting place before, though the newest traces are at least a fortnight old. 
 

Asha helped the elf sit down.  "Mercy is strength not weakness.  My tribe took mercy on those it defeated, allowed them to join instead of die out.  We gained knowledge and numbers.  You did the honorable thing.  You owed this creature a life debt anyway, the ancestors would have never let you rest without paying it." 

She waited with the elf, helping prepare the camp for the night.  When the others got back from their searches she went out into the woods to try to find something.

 
 Spoiler 
Looking for a large stick, about her own height.  What does she need to roll.
 
Rathgar
 "What might this enemy be that you were fighting?  Is it something we should worry about going up into the mountains?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha helped the elf sit down.  "Mercy is strength not weakness.  My tribe took mercy on those it defeated, allowed them to join instead of die out.  We gained knowledge and numbers.  You did the honorable thing.  You owed this creature a life debt anyway, the ancestors would have never let you rest without paying it."   
 

Eldien stares at Asha for a while, then continues to study the grass again.  "Your tribe... Sounds like it does things very differently from mine. I... Thank you." 

 She waited with the elf, helping prepare the camp for the night.  When the others got back from their searches she went out into the woods to try to find something.

 
 Spoiler 
Looking for a large stick, about her own height.  What does she need to roll.
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
That would be search. You can take 10 or roll.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "What might this enemy be that you were fighting?  Is it something we should worry about going up into the mountains?"  
 

Eldien considers this for a while, before she seems to make a decision.  "You have helped me more than I ever could have expected, it is only right that I help you in return if I can."  She draws a rough map on the ground.

 "My tribe, the  Griffon's Claws  in your tongue, lives in the area between Calm Wind and Strong Rock. Another clan of elves live higher up, closer to Calm Wind. They call themselves the  Eyes of the Phoenix , I do not know why." 
 "Our enemies, the orcs, inhabit the river valley between River's Mother and Strong Rock. We call their tribes the Spear, the Axe and the Weak... but I understand that they have other names for themselves. The Spears at least call themselves 'Traire..keih' " , she struggles with the word,  "It means something like 'the two spears that tore the sky apart', I think." 
 "None of them treat outsiders very friendly, I'd... suggest you try stay away from them if you can." 
 
 Spoiler 
Yes, I drew this in paint, sue me. :P But it's about as beautiful than her scribbles on the ground.

 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Funny thing, I ran these names through Google Translate just for fun and surprisingly most of them came out okay. Except for the Fire mountain, which it for some mysterious reason wanted to name 'Became a Guitar'...😛
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Search:  (1d20+1)[ 4 ]   Maybe she will not find one today, that is okay.

EDIT: I think she forgot what a stick looks like :P
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stands behind and over the others, bent forward with hands on knees, studying the map and trying to memorize every detail.   "Where do the dwarves dwell?  Which of them would help us first?" 
MrE
 "Yes, if you are hunted by elves and orcs, then only the dwarves lie open to us,"  Taesha adds.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok stands behind and over the others, bent forward with hands on knees, studying the map and trying to memorize every detail.   "Where do the dwarves dwell?  Which of them would help us first?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "Yes, if you are hunted by elves and orcs, then only the dwarves lie open to us,"  Taesha adds. 
 

 "A tribe called  Stoneseekers  live inside Strong Rock. I have not seen them often, they mostly keep to themselves. My tribe has traded with them sometimes, but we have little things that they value. The stone from Strong Rock is... good, you can make items from it with more ease. I think... that mountain is why we fight so much with the orcs. Maybe."  Eldien looks a bit uneasy, as if she's said something she shouldn't.

She looks at the map again.  "I've heard that another dwarven tribe would dwell at Fiery, but I've never met any of them. The land over there is barren." 
Athedia
 "Are orcs like giants?"   Asha had never seen an orc, but she remembered stories of her tribes old enemies.
CWater
 "No... They are the same size as us. Um, they have tusks and rough features",  Eldien looks surprised,  "...Really, you've never seen an orc?" 
 "The dead one, in the spiders' web. That was an orc",  Stiira adds suddenly. She's been mostly silent the whole day, barely spoken a word.

Eldien looks up when at this comment, then she sighs.  "Like I thought." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "No... They are the same size as us. Um, they have tusks and rough features",  Eldien looks surprised,  "...Really, you've never seen an orc?" 
 "The dead one, in the spiders' web. That was an orc",  Stiira adds suddenly. She's been mostly silent the whole day, barely spoken a word.

Eldien looks up when at this comment, then she sighs.  "Like I thought."  
 

 "That was an orc? And what did you think?  Were you being tracked? I though he had been there longer, he was dead after all." 
CWater
 "...I was inside that web... thing for a few days. I think that is why the spiders didn't touch me before... they took my leg that day. Because they had something else to eat",  the elf shudders and touches the stump of her leg.  "Anyway, I... saw the orc get killed. He was the same one whose life I had spared and I guess he had followed me from the mountains. I don't know why, I said I had paid a dept." 

She lets out a deep sigh,  "Maybe it was the gods' will.. They wanted to show me how foolish I had been. The orc died anyway and I am crippled." 

She is silent for a moment  "But you say that mercy is not wrong... I'm not sure what to think now." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...I was inside that web... thing for a few days. I think that is why the spiders didn't touch me before... they took my leg that day. Because they had something else to eat",  the elf shudders and touches the stump of her leg.  "Anyway, I... saw the orc get killed. He was the same one whose life I had spared and I guess he had followed me from the mountains. I don't know why, I said I had paid a dept." 

She lets out a deep sigh,  "Maybe it was the gods' will.. They wanted to show me how foolish I had been. The orc died anyway and I am crippled." 

She is silent for a moment  "But you say that mercy is not wrong... I'm not sure what to think now."  
 

 "So you owe him a life debt again.  This time you will have to find another way to repay it.  That is the only way either of your spirits will gain peace."   Asha decided not to mention that the 'orc', as they had called that odd looking humanoid, might have just had a crush on her.  She was starting to get the idea not all tribes took in members like hers.

Even when it made sense, after all the tribe had to grow somehow and absorbing others had given them an edge for so long, different fighting skills, magics, even foods.  Though she did feel pride at belonging to one of the original families, that was the only reason she had learned how to bind the ancestors.

How empty it must feel not to share ones body with their spirits, even with the possible downsides Asha had never felt anything but more alive after joining.
MrE
 "You paid your debt to him by sparing his life. It was his choice to follow you, and whatever happened, it does not negate what you did for him. You have honour that your tribe will never know."  Taesha hoped her words were a comfort to the woman, who had lost so much already.
Rathgar
 "Why are your tribes fighting each other anyhow?" 
CWater
Eldien doesn't know what to say to the other women, but her troubled expression eases a little.

To Tuntematon she says,  "They are our enemies. And... lately the orcs have started to come to the south side of Strong Rock, looking for the good stones that can be found there, for weapons I think. My tribe does not permit that." 
CWater
Eventually, the conversation dies down and the party prepares to rest for the night. From the tents and other materials they have, they manage to build a decent shelter. Their furs also protect them from the worst pinch of cold in the yet early spring.

Most of the night passes quietly, though it's still almost pitch dark when Taesha wakes Tuntematon for the last watch.

 
 Spoiler 
Since there was no voiced opinoins, I'm going to say that you built one big shelter where everyone sleep, except Kanok and Fang who wanted to sleep outside.

Would our centaur make Spot and Listen checks, please. Our resident incarnum user can make them too, since I'm not feeling very evil today.
 
CWater
Tuntematon is saying his morning prayers to the strange Alnin, his holy symbol glowing occasionally. He hears only the usual forest sounds, early birds singing and some minor rustling. Some small sound wakes Fang though and the wolfhound rises its head. Sniffing the air, he detects very very faint smell of blood.

It is still quite dark, though the sky has started to turn bluer and the stars are fading away from sight.
CWater
Standing by the small campfire, Tuntematon gets the feeling that something is watching him. Looking around, he doesn't spot any movement and still something in the surroundings seems different than a moment before. Had there always been so many bushes? It's hard to tell in the dark.

Fang stands up and is facing the forest, his nose telling him that there's something unusual, even if his eyes cannot locate it. Suddenly red glowing eyes look back at him from the darkness and before he has time to make a sound a small creature that looks like a twisted humanoid made of tree leaps forward from the darkness and tries to claw the wolfhound with it's long fingers.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

You should all be at full HP btw, except Asha who violently stabbed herself some time ago.😏

Initiative for those that are up:
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Fang:  (1d20+1)[ 3 ] 
Tree thing:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
Grey squares are part of the large rock and climb checks are requied if you want to move to them. The red dot is the campfire, darker green means dim light and the dark area is just shadows to human (or the equivalent) eyes.
 
 
CWater
Fang evades the first attck, but the small tree doesn't give up and lashes at him again. This time with both hands.

 
 Spoiler 

T1:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 
 


More similiar creatures emerge from the darkness. One heads towards Fang and two charge at Tuntematon. Rustling sounds from the forest imply that this might not be all of them.

 
 Spoiler 
One more attack at poor Fang by T2:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T3 and T4 attack Tuntematon:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 
 


EDIT:
The two tree beings attacking Fang are too eager and don't manage to land a single hit on the nimble dog. Tuntematon also evades the first attack directed at him, but the other manages to scratch him a little.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save please.
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
Grey squares are part of the large rock and climb checks are requied if you want to move to them. The red dot is the campfire, darker green means dim light and the dark area is just shadows to human (or the equivalent) eyes.

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok opens his eyes, awakened by all the sudden noise.  Instinct taking over, he surges to his feet while grabbing for a weapon; his club being the closest.  He slams his wooden cudgel down at the closest  thing  with a two-handed overhead swing.  He is all groggy, his eyes are blurry, and his conscious mind still hasn't caught up.

 "GET UP!!!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Move action to stand combined with drawing his club.  Two-handed attack on T2.

 Club:   (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
if crit:
 Club:   (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+8)[ 12 ] 
20% miss chance from concealment

Kanok is not wearing the Dragonskin.

 Nature:   (1d20+10)[ 24 ] 
To identify these (plant?) creatures.
 
Seharvepernfan
Fang viciously growls at the nearest bush creatures, lunging forward to snap his jaws around the one directly in front of him.

 
 Spoiler 

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
if crit:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 

If that hits, he tries to trip it:
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 

No miss chance (due to low-light vision) unless they're also within some undergrowth.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
We'll ignore Kanok's turn for now, though it'll probably come around later.
 


Fang gets a hold of the closest creature's throat and throws it to the ground, snapping it's neck in the process.

 
 Spoiler 
T1 is down.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 18/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Position: V36 

As the danger closes, the centaur once again utters the command word,  "Hämärtää!" , and his outline began to become more indistinct.  He drew his club, and as he did, he let out a shout.   "Awake!  Everyone, awake!  We're getting shrubbed!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: Activate Blurring effect on armor
Free Action: Call out to party
Move Action: Draw Club
Standard Action: Attack wooden thing at W37 with club

 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+1)[ 18 ] 
 Club Damage:   (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 
Etherion
Hearing the sound of combat, Aidan jumps up and grabs his axes, and runs forward to the creatures.

 
 Spoiler 
Move 1: Stand and draw axes
Move 2: To V35.
 
Athedia
Asha grabbed her spear and stood up, noticing the three women asleep around her.  Growling under her breath she smacked at them with the end of her spear.   "There is a time for sleep and during an attack is not the time." 
CWater
The bush creature ceases it's attack on the nimble dog and instead goes for Kanok on the ground.
 
 Spoiler 
T2:
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 
 


The two creatures close to Tuntematon keep attacking him and a third one runs from the shadows to join them.
 
 Spoiler 

T3:
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


T4:
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


T5:
Just one claw:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 
 


Three more creatures emerge from the forest. Two charge at Asha who's busy at waking up the other women, one runs towards Aidan.

 
 Spoiler 
Attacking  Asha :
T6:
Just one claw:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T7:
Just one claw:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


Attacking  Aidan :
T8:
Just one claw:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler 
It's the party's turn again. You can all go in any order.
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan chops at the creature that attacked him with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: attack rolls 
Main hand:
 (1d20+1)[ 9 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 
 Spoiler: Crit confirm 
 (1d20+1)[ 4 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 


Off hand:
 (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 
 Spoiler: Crit confirm 
 (1d20+1)[ 5 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 

 
Seharvepernfan
Fang snarls and lunges forward to the next nearest creature, his head turning sideways to get a better hold, spittle flying.

 
 Spoiler 

Attacking the closest one in shadowy illumination (though Fang has low-light vision).

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan has not quite woken up yet and his attacks miss. Kanok manages to land a blow with his club, but the creature is still standing and evades Fang's attack. Kanok remembers some stories of these creatures, they can be found also in the forests close to his home.

 
 Spoiler 
Good knowledge roll there. They are called twig blights, bloodthirsty plants that are known to lurk around campsites. Individually weak, they often seek strength in numbers. Their claws are mildly poisonous, and arrows and spears are not very effective against them.
 


Visual aid, btw:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 18/19, Blurred (4 rounds remaining)
Position: V36 
 "There's more of them!  It's time for the sleeping ones to awaken!"   With that, the centaur continued to try to hit them with his club.

 
 Spoiler 
Standard Action to attack T4

Rolls:
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 3 ] 
 Club Damage:   (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 
Athedia
 "I am trying!"  Asha winced as the tree-thing opened up a cut on the other side of her hand.  She lashed out at it with Fear trying to keep the claws away from her.

 
 Spoiler 
spear Form (2handed)
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
Damage: [roll]ad8+1[/roll]

Fort Save:  (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 

Messed up my damage roll
 
MrE
Taesha awakened groggily from a dream where her family was reunited to a rather less pleasant reality. Without thought she channeled the strength of her ancestors into the bindings, her claws pulsing with power and she leaped towards the nearest bush-thing, arms striking out to rake the creature mortally.

 
 Spoiler 
Move action: Move to  U35, attack with one claw.
 (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon's swing misses as the creature jumps out of the way. Taesha manages to land a powerful blow on another, removing it's wooden head from the shoulders. Asha stabs the one who clawed her with her spear, poking a hole to it's wooden body. But the scratch doesn't seem to affect the creature much and it looks a bit like it's grinning wickedly.

Stiira looks around with a terrified expression, and moves past Eldien to the other side of the shelter. She then picks a small black spiky thing from her pouch and mutters some arcane words. As a result, 2 inch long spikes grow out of her skin and clothing. Eldien tries to crawl away from the closest creatures.

 
 Spoiler 
Urchin's Spines cast.
 


Despite some of their comrades demise, more tree creatures swarm the campsite red eyes glowing. All of the party members are now under attack!

 
 Spoiler 
Attacks against the party:

Kanok
T2, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Fang
T9:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Aidan
T6, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T8, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Asha
T12:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T13:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Tuntematon
T3, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T4, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Taesha
T10:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T11:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


Stiira
T7, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok growls in anger and frustration, then whips his club in a lateral swing, using his powerful core muscles in a mighty twist, trying to whack the one he already wounded, to get it out of the fight.  It is hard to track it's movements in the shadows, however, and his strikes are based more on intuition than aim; if only he had time to summon light.  Meanwhile, Fang launches his jaws at the newest approaching twig-monster, scared and confused by the scene, but is overcome with wild anger more than anything.

 
 Spoiler 

 Club:   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 Miss Chance:   (1d5)[ 3 ] 
 Fortitude:   (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 

Fang attacks T9.
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan sidesteps to avoid a blow from the attacking creature, and attacks it.
 
 Spoiler 
derp, I added the -2 penalty twice with my previous attacks. Add two to the hit rolls, if it makes a difference.
5 ft step to U34
Full attack T6:
 (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha dodged the two clumsy blows by her wooden foes, then slashed again with her glowing claws.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack T11:  (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok's club hits the twig blight in its central trunk and he can hear it crack when the creature falls to the ground. Aidan also chops his opponent in two with two precise strikes. Taesha slashes another one with her claws, leaving deep cuts on its body. Still, this one remains standing, though only barely.
Athedia
Asha spun the spear in her and brought the end swinging down at the creature attacking Stiira.   "Eldien get behind me!"  She could hold up to these creatures blows, but Eldien was weak and Stiira no bigger than a child.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I'm sorry Rathgar, but since it's been over 24 hours, I'm going for you. I hope you don't mind.
 


Tuntematon tries to attack the same enemy again.

 
 Spoiler 
Standard Action to attack T4

Rolls:
Attack With Club:  (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 
Club Damage:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
 


Unfortunately, the attack misses.
CWater
The twig blight that prevously tried to attack Fang ignores the nimble dog and targets the bigger humanoid, Kanok, instead. The one Taesha wounded looks hesitant, then runs back to the forest disappearing into darkness. The one next to Stiira frowns at the little witch covered in spikes before noticing easier prey. It steps past the halfling and tries to claw the elf lying on the ground. Eldien screams and tries to avoid the attack the best she can. The other twig blights close ranks and yet a few more appear from the forest.

Stiira backs to the rock wall, afraid to cast a spell with the creatures so close.  "I... I have one fire spell.. It could burn them... If I had space.." 
 
 Spoiler 
Eldien and Stiira are in Total Defense.

Attacks against the party:

Kanok
T8, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

T9, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Fang
no attacks


Aidan
T12, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 


Asha
T13, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T14, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Tuntematon
T3, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

T4, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T17:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 


Taesha
T10, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T15, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


Stiira
no attacks


Eldien
T7, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok growls in victory, then turns his attention to the twig-blight beside him in the firelight.  He spins, reversing his momentum, and brings the club down in an overhead swing against the distracted creature.

Fang continues his onslaught of bites, lunging again at the scary moving bush, growling and snarling.

 
 Spoiler 

Kanok attacks T8, with a +2 flanking bonus from Tunta.  I don't think he should have a miss chance, but I'm not positive.

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
If he brings it down, he will 5ft adjust into V35.

Fang attacks T9.
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
If he brings it down, he will 5ft adjust into W34 (unless you think he wouldn't).
 
Athedia
Asha shifted her hands again, trying to get a better grip on the shaft of the spear.  She had minor cuts all over from the creatures, but Eldien was in a worse position.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

I think my Fort mod is 5, can't look it up atm

 (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok's strong blow slays the twig blight and he moves closer to the campfire's light. Fang manages to wound his opponent, though doesn't get a good enough hold to throw it to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Does Fang move?
 
Etherion
Aidan brings his axes together above his head, and brings his arms down in a mighty swing aimed at the head of the creature that attacked him.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack t12:
 (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 13/19, Blurred (2 rounds remaining)
Position: V36 

The centaur continues trying to hit the shrubfolk with his club, despite it not having worked so far.

 
 Spoiler 

Actions:
Standard Action: Hit T17 with Club
Free Action: Feel guilty for not contributing

Rolls:
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 6 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan chops an arm off from one of the twig blights and it pushes past its comrades and runs back to the forest.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I'll go for Taesha so that we can begin a new round before I'll be gone for the rest of the evening.

If you feel that I've made your turn for you too quick, please bring it up in OOC.
 


Since her previous opponent has ran away, Taesha attacks another.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack T15:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
 


This time the twig blight manages to dodge her claws.
CWater
Stiira sneaks out of the shelter, trying to avoid attacks from the enemies. Still, one of the creatures tries to slash her when she moves past it.
 
 Spoiler 
AoO for T14:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 
 


The twig blight horde continues its attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Eldien is still in Total Defense.

Attacks against the party:

Kanok
T3, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

T9, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Fang
no attacks


Aidan
no attacks


Asha
T13, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T14, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

T16:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


Tuntematon
T4, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

T17, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Taesha
T10, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T15, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 


Stiira
no attacks


Eldien
T7, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 
 


Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Athedia
Asha did not like these creatures.  They were barely hurt by her spear and kept dodging her blows.  And poor Eldien was defenseless.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
Same one as before

Move action to take a spare spear off back, will give it to Eldien next turn.
 


And these were another form of tree she realized.

 "I. Hate. Trees!" 
Etherion
Aidan chops at the twig blight attacking Eldien, and shouts to Kanok.

 Take out the one behind me! 
 
 Spoiler 
Attack T7:
 (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
 (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok hears Aidan and waits just an instant for Fang to attack the twig-blight between them, keeping it distracted with his presence for the wolfhound to exploit.  Fang lunges in, all fury and teeth, then Kanok makes his decision and swings his club down on yet another foolish shrub.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok delays until after Fang.

Fang attacks T9.  He is flanking.
 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 

Kanok then attacks T9 if it is still standing (that is, not dead and not tripped) or 5ft steps over to attack T13 if it's not.  If he's attacking T9, add 2 to his roll.
 Club:   (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
 Miss Chance:   (1d5)[ 4 ] 
If attacking T9.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 And these were another form of tree she realized.

 "I. Hate. Trees!"  
 

The small tree glaces at Asha over its shoulder with another grin. In her mind, Asha can hear a familiar voice speaking.  "Calm your mind, child" , Ronove says,  "Anger is pointless, both in the short moment battle and in the larger flow of life. Focus your will and the weapon you insist on carrying will obey you." 

Aidan slashes the twig blight clawing Eldien and some yellowish substance bursts from the wound. Still, the creature remains standing. Fang attacks the already wounded tree and brings it down with another neck snap. Kanok steps forward, but this time the enemy dodges his club.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 12/19, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Position: V36 

Tuntematon began to get frustrated as he couldn't seem to land a single hit.   "Stand still!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack T17

Rolls:
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Stiira takes a small step, trying to adjust her aim. She makes complicated movements with her fingers and mutters,   "Angry fire, weaker than water, but enemy of trees..   Burn!"  

Flames burst from her fingertips, burning the twig blights in front of her. Asha, Knok and Taesha can feel heat of the spell, but the actual burning fire doesn't reach them.

 
 Spoiler 
Damage:  (3d4)[ 7 ] 
Twig blight Ref saves, DC 14:

T13:  (1d20+1)[ 6 ] 
T14:  (1d20+1)[ 19 ] 
T15:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
T16:  (1d20+1)[ 6 ] 
 


Three twig blights get the full force of the spell and fall on the ground, charred. Only the one inside the shelter manages to evade the worst, though it is also badly burnt.
CWater
Taesha attacks one of the reamaining twig blights.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm not very comfortable in going for the same PC twice in a row (without a beforehand agreement), but since it has been much over 24 hours I'll do it.

Attack T10:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
 
CWater
The badly burnt twig blight turns around and scampers back to the forest. The one deeply wounded by Aidan tires to slash the elf one last time, but then turns to flee too.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Asha and Aidan get to make AoOs as it tries to escape.
 


The other trees still keep fighting, though they start to seem slighty hesistant. Two new ones make a surprise attack at Stiira from the forest, red eyes glowing with fury.

 
 Spoiler 
Attacks against the party:

Kanok
T3, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Tuntematon
T4, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T17, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 2 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Taesha
T10, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 

Attack:  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 


Stiira
T18, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 0 ] 

T19, 2 claws:
Attack:  (1d20)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d3-1)[ 1 ] 
 


One of the creatures manages to strike the small witch and she feels herself weaken a little from the poison.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Asha can't make an AOO, she took a spear off her back last turn and has two -two handed weapons in her hands.  She needs to speak a command word to shrink the one and while she can hold them that is really all she can do.
 
Seharvepernfan
Fang drops the still bush-monster from his mouth, then quickly lunges forward towards the light to snap at the one on the other side of the man-beast, his green eyes gleaming in the firelight.

Kanok flinches and raises an arm up to protect himself from the flames, and is glad to see they did not reach him.  Glancing down, he notes the charred pile of kindling that spreads out in a wave in front of him.  It may be witchcraft, but he has to admit he admires the effect.  Seeing the two emerge from the darkness to attack Stiira, he dashes towards them, vaulting the ones that lay dead before him.  Approaching the furthest twig-blight, he again brings his club down in with an over-head swing.

 
 Spoiler 

Fang adjusts into V34, to flank and attack the one flanking Tunta.
 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
If this one is brought down, Kanok won't suffer an AoO for leaving his square.

Kanok moves to R37, then attacks T19.
 Club:   (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
Alternatively, if you'll allow him to share Stiira's space and grant her some soft cover, he'll move into her square.
 
Athedia
 "Defend yourself."  Asha tossed her last spare spear to Eldien.  She then took a deep breath and examined the creature in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack T7
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Asha can't make an AOO, she took a spear off her back last turn and has two -two handed weapons in her hands.  She needs to speak a command word to shrink the one and while she can hold them that is really all she can do.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Oh, okay.

Aidan's AoO:
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 


Aidan chops the head off of the escaping twig blight.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Asha attacked T3 then.
 


While it manages to evade Fang's strong jaws, the twig blight gets a powerful blow from the blunt end of Asha's spear and it falls down to the ground unconscious.

Aidan quickly steps over the fallen tree and cuts down another with his axes.

 
 Spoiler 
He attacks T17, the rolls were made in the OoC earlier.
 


Stiira runs back, to stand next to the shelter.

Map:
 
 Spoiler 
Not a new round quite yet, but there were enough changes in positions that I thought a new one might still be in order. Tasha and Tuntematon are up.

 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 11/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Position: V36 

Tuntematon became so angry that he began to use some colorful language.   "Perkeleiden pensaslainet!"   His outline began to become less indistinct, but the centaur knew how to fix that.   "Hämärtää!" 

Despite the total lack of success so far, the centaur continued to try to bludgeon the intruders.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Swift Action: Speak command word to reactivate the Blurred effect
Standard Action: Attack T4 With Club

Rolls:
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 17 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Taesha attacks the same twig blight as before.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack T10:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
 


Her aim is true and the creature is torn in two.

With their ranks so dimished the remaining twig blights lose their courage. They turn around and flee to the forest. 13 corpses of their comrades are left to lay around the campsite.

As a strange coincidence, the party can see the first rays of the morning sun reach them through the trees. They've all got scratches from the creatures claws, some more than others, but everyone are standing and no one is gravely wounded.

 
 Spoiler 
HP at the end of the battle:

Kanok: 18/29
Aidan: 24/25
Asha: 18/25
Tuntematon: 12/19
Taesha: 22/28
Stiira: 16/17
 
CWater
Stiira looks around nervously, shaking a little.   "A-are they gone...?"   The forest seems to have indeed ceased its hostilities, but it takes several minutes for the small witch to calm down so she can play herself new spells. She knows she cannot replace the one she cast in the battle, since it just left her mind, but she wants to change a few others. Yesterdays challenge was the river, today they will reach the mountains.

 
 Spoiler 
I've updated Stiira's spells. If anyone else wants to do any changes or say something after battle now's the time. I hope to move us forward before I go to bed tonight.

Oh! Might I also ask what Kanok and Aidan are eating today? The rest have some rations left (Asha has everlasting), and Stiira can at least share, others too, if they want to. Or you can go find more food while the casters &amp; etc. prepare for the day.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stands vigilant for a while longer, peering off into the darkness.  He arms his shield while doing so.  After a few moments, when he's sure they're not going to surge back out, he produces his bone wand and begins healing those most wounded.  After that, he throws all the twig-blight corpses onto the fire (making it much larger for a while).  He doesn't know how these things spawn, but some creatures birth from the corpses of their parents, and he doesn't want to risk more of these things coming into the world.

After he's watched them burn for several minutes, and made sure the fire won't spread, he puts on the Dragonskin and prepares to go hunting for a while with Fang, while the casters are preparing.

 
 Spoiler 
He will indeed go hunting, if he can manage to get anything is such a short time.

Taking 10 if optional, otherwise:
 Survival:   (1d20+14)[ 26 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha shuddered as Ronove made her exit.  24 hours, it was lucky the creatures had attacked while she was still bond.  She went over to Eldien,   "Since you're going to be with us for a little I would like you to hold onto that spear.  It isn't much but I don't want you to be defenceless at camp." 
Rathgar
 "What strange creatures.  I'd say that their strangeness would've brought them the favor of Alnin, but they interrupted the prayers of Alnin's prophet, so now I cannot say.  In any case, I believe we are all relatively O.K. at this point.  So, what next?" 
CWater
Kanok comes across a well-sized deer by the river bank. It is all alone and limping one of its legs, so it is an easy catch.
 
 Spoiler 
It is worth 8 daily portiots of food for one person.
 

 "Thank you" , Eldien says to Asha and holds the spear tight, as if she's hoping that it could help her stand up.  "We should be careful when we approach the mountains. My tr- my  old  tribe does not like strangers much." 
 
 Spoiler 
Is Asha binding anyone today?

Otherwise, everyone ready to go?
 
Seharvepernfan
 "Then we should avoid them."   Kanok grumbles while walking into camp with a deer over his shoulders.  He spends a while skinning and preparing it, then cooking it's meat on the fire.   "Which way is best to the Stoneseekers?" 
 
 Spoiler 
He's gonna keep the hide and antlers (if it had any), since they're useful.
 
CWater
 "I don't know exactly where they live" , Eldien says,  But I can guide you to where they come to trade sometimes. They can't live too far from that place.. 
Seharvepernfan
 "That is good."   He suspects the dwarves will have trails in the stone leading to wherever they dwell, or close to.

When everyone is ready, he puts away his weapons and picks the crippled elf up, taking a central position in the group.
CWater
The party finishes their breakfast and other preparations before they set forth again. They follow the river for a little while longer, until it starts to turn northwest by a formation of a few larger rocks and Eldien directs them to continue west. The steady forest floor soon changes to a slope, first gently, but later the terrain turns rougher and they have to start watching their steps more carefully.

After a while the party reaches a huge pine tree that towers over the others and the hillside. They can see that some obscure markings are carved to its trunk.  "That tree is called 'The Watcher' " , Eldien says,  "We are about halfway to the trading place." 

Looking back to where thay came, they can see a peaceful scenery. The river flowing next the mountains and the forest resting innocently behind it.

It is little after noon.

 
 Spoiler 
Visual aid

Slope:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 


Scenery:
 
 Spoiler 
 
 

 

 
 Spoiler 
Listen checks, please.

Stiira:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Eldien:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
 
Athedia
 Earlier that Morning: 

Asha snuck away from the group, still within shouting distance but she didn't want them to observe her again.  They still gave her odd looks after the last binding.  And Naberius could be, interesting.  Not caustic, she had to admit that despite his voice she loved listening to him, but interesting and occasionally a little mean.  Especially if you talked to much and didn't let him.  She didn't care for whatever history he spouted when people asked.  In her mind he just liked hearing his own voice.

She drew the circle and waited.

 
 Spoiler 
Binder Check vs DC 15 for Naberius.  Since we will need a voice of the party to deal with people we meet today.

 (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 

Ah well

  Sign : Your voice deepens and acquires a gravelly, growling tone.
 Inﬂuence : While you are inﬂuenced by Naberius, you love the sound of your own voice and are constantly pleased by your cleverness. Whenever you are presented with a pulpit, a stage, a talking stick, or any other place or object   designed to give a speaker the ﬂoor, Naberius requires that you immediately seize the opportunity to speak. Any topic will do, but since Naberius resents others taking control of the discourse, he requires that you either shout them down or mock them. Your speech must last a number of rounds equal to your effective binder level to satisfy Naberius. 
 
CWater
 By the Watcher tree in the mountains: 

Aidan and Taesha hear a clattering noise, as if someone is repeatedly hitting stone perhaps, and the occasional shout, though the noises are too faint to pick up words or even identify the language. The sounds seem to come little higher up, and to the right from where the party is standing.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  Earlier that Morning: 

Asha snuck away from the group, still within shouting distance but she didn't want them to observe her again.  They still gave her odd looks after the last binding.  And Naberius could be, interesting.  Not caustic, she had to admit that despite his voice she loved listening to him, but interesting and occasionally a little mean.  Especially if you talked to much and didn't let him.  She didn't care for whatever history he spouted when people asked.  In her mind he just liked hearing his own voice.

She drew the circle and waited.

 
 Spoiler 
Binder Check vs DC 15 for Naberius.  Since we will need a voice of the party to deal with people we meet today.

[roll0]

Ah well
 
 
 

It takes a while today before anything happens, but eventually Asha hears the loud cry of bird that announces that Naberius is coming. A large kestrel falls from the sky and crashes to the seal she had drawn.

A few second later she hears the sound of familiar footsteps and a large tree-headed hound comes to view out of nowhere. The middle head tilts a little to the side and suddenly it morphs into that of a handsome human.   "Greetings! Oh Asha, isn't it. Have you been well? Do excuse my rudeness, I need to hurry before my meal gets cold. But we can talk, while I eat, of course."  
Naberius trots closer and the middle head turns back into that of a ferociuos dog before it and the right one reveal their sharp teeth and dig in to the bird. The left head however, turns towards Asha taking the humanoid form. It sighs,   "Pity, I really do prefer cranes. Not that it is your fault in the least, must be the wrong season or something. Oh well.. So, what do we face today?"  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 It takes a while today before anything happens, but eventually Asha hears the loud cry of bird that announces that Naberius is coming. A large kestrel falls from the sky and crashes to the seal she had drawn.

A few second later she hears the sound of familiar footsteps and a large tree-headed hound comes to view out of nowhere. The middle head tilts a little to the side and suddenly it morphs into that of a handsome human.   "Greetings! Oh Asha, isn't it. Have you been well? Do excuse my rudeness, I need to hurry before my meal gets cold. But we can talk, while I eat, of course."  
Naberius trots closer and the middle head turns back into that of a ferociuos dog before it and the right one reveal their sharp teeth and dig in to the bird. The left head however, turns towards Asha taking the humanoid form. It sighs,   "Pity, I really do prefer cranes. Not that it is your fault in the least, must be the wrong season or something. Oh well.. So, what do we face today?"   
 

 "I have been fine Naberius.  I needed to talk to some strangers today, elves that know the place we are trying to find.  I need to make sure they don't kill the newest member of our tribe."   She held up her hand, blood still visible on it.   "Will you help me color my words?" 
CWater
  "Oh, I don't know... I've been feeling a bit unwell lately. You know how it is. But well... You are a nice girl, and I do so miss speaking to new faces... You will give me a chance to feel what it's like again, won't you?"   Naberius adopts an innocent playful face whose charm is not diminished even by the fact that he tilts the head to an unnaturally low angle. Behind it, the two other heads keep gobbling up the kestrel.
Athedia
 "Sure you can speak with them."  Asha eyes widened and she clapped her hand over her mouth as she realized her slip.  She had given him an opening, a bad binding.  She had relaxed to much.
CWater
Naberius' smile widens to a wicked grin.   "Ooh,  thank you!  Of course I shall help you. This will be  fun! "   The other two heads jolt up, suddenly finished eating and the hound jumps towards Asha, disappearing from sight as it approaches her. A few stray feathers are left laying on the binding circle.
MrE
Taesha ***** her head at the noise and sees Aidan doing likewise. Stepping towards the sound she motions to the others:  "I think there must be something up there. It would be thoughtless to leave it unchecked." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Naberius' smile widens to a wicked grin.   "Ooh,  thank you!  Of course I shall help you. This will be  fun! "   The other two heads jolt up, suddenly finished eating and the hound jumps towards Asha, disappearing from sight as it approaches her. A few stray feathers are left laying on the binding circle. 
 


 
 Spoiler 
Naberius Skills: Sleight of Hand and Knowledge (Nature)
 


Asha stood up, cursing to herself.  This could be awkward.  She scuffed out the circle with her foot.

 Present Time: 

As Asha walked with the party she kept silent.  If she didn't speak no-one would notice the sign Naberius had granted her.  And if no-one spoke to her, he wouldn't get an opening.  Luckily everyone was concentrating more on not being attacked than holding a conversation.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok notices Taesha and Aidan ready their weapons while looking off in one direction (then Taesha makes it clear that something is heard).  Smelling trouble, he sits Eldien down between a couple of boulders,  "Stay silent, do not move."   He then casts a spell over her, finishing by touching her remaining foot.

Grabbing Fang's attention, he picks up a small rock, sits it on the ground in front of Eldien and pointedly states,  "Defend." , while indicating the rock.  He then arms his spear and shield, then moves to go with others, taking a lead position unless they opt for stealth.

 
 Spoiler 
Casts Hide from Animals on Eldien.

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Unless I can take 10.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Lets send Aidan first to see what's up then.😏 Stiira's has an elvenkind cloak, so I'll send her along too.
 


Aidan sneaks ahead, to the direction where he thinks the noises are coming from. Stiira looks hesitant, but eventually decides to go after him, trusting her cloak to hide her from sight.

The others follow them at a slow pace, weapons drawn, except for Eldien and Fang who are left by the rocks next to the great tree.

 
 Spoiler 
Relevant rolls for Aidan and Stiira

Aidan
Hide:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 

Stiira
Hide:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 

Spot and Listen from everyone.
 
CWater
Aidan and Stiira need not wander too far ahead before they find the source of the noises. A small group of orcs is bustling next to a sharp rock wall. There is five of them in total, one is keeping watch and the four others are using basic tools to cut pieces of stone from the wall, that seem to come loose surprisingly easy.

Aidan also notices other movement in the corner of his eye. Two elves are approaching the scene from his right, moving quietly through the terrain with longbows drawn. When he's trying to get a better look, the hunter steps on a twig and the sound of it breaking makes the elves quickly glance in his direction. Swiftly hiding behind the tree and other growth seems to prevent them from seeing him though, since they soon continue sneaking towards the working orcs.

Stiira, who is a few feet away behind another tree, appears not to have noticed the elves at all.

 
 Spoiler 
This was the result of the previous rolls.

So, what do you want to do? Try to sneak back to the rest of the party, keep watching, or something else?

The rest of the party is still farther down the hill, away from view.
 
Etherion
Aidan peeks around the tree to continue watching the scene.
 
 Spoiler 
Are orcs in this setting universally hated and feared evil barbarians who hate everyone, or can they be friendly sometimes? (Apologies if you've already said this, things can be forgotten over two weeks😳).
Also, do I need to make more rolls?
 
CWater
Aidan watches the elves get closer to the group of orcs, until they have a clear aim through the trees and prepare to fire their bows. The orc guard doesn't seem to notice anything and the others are busy working.

 
 Spoiler 
The elves are about 50 ft. away from the orcs. And also about the same distance from Aidan and Stiira.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Are orcs in this setting universally hated and feared evil barbarians who hate everyone, or can they be friendly sometimes? (Apologies if you've already said this, things can be forgotten over two weeks😳).
Also, do I need to make more rolls? 
 

Depends who you ask, these elves would definitely think they're merely evil monsters. Then again the orcs might say the same of them.. 😏

But seriously speaking I generally tend to not use the racial alignments given in the Monster Manuals, especially with intelligent creatures, unless there is a clear reason for it. It's up to the individuals, and in some cases, their culture to determine what they are like.🙂

You can make one more Spot check if you want, it might tell something more.
Let's see if Stiira can notice them this time:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 


EDIT:
Studying the surroundings, Aidan spots two other elves who have snuck to the scene from another direction and are also readying their bows.

 
 Spoiler 
Theyre also about 50 ft. away from the orcs and to the right from where you are. They're a bit further away from you than the first two that are a little to your left.
 
Etherion
Aidan motions for Stiira to come closer, and pulls out his bow.

(If she comes over)
Aidan whispers to Stiira
 It looks like some elves plan on ambushing those orcs over there. Head back to the others, let them know what's going on. I'll keep watching. 
CWater
Stiira nods with wide eyes and sneaks away to head back to the others.

 
 Spoiler: Determining next action 
Stiira's movement
Hide:  (1d20)[ 13 ]  +9 = 22
Move Silently:  (1d20)[ 17 ]  +4 = 21
Forgot her modifiers..

Perception rolls from the elves and orc (the elves are not looking in her direction, so they can only see Stiira if they hear her first, and the orc has a penalty due to distance)
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 (1d20-3)[ 4 ] 
 (1d20-3)[ 17 ] 
 
CWater
One of the elves seems to have heard something, but shrugs it off as forest sounds, and the little witch slips away unnoticed. Aidan can see the all the elves take aim and after one of them (from the pair on the left) gives a sign they all shoot their arrows at once.
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 
 

The guarding orc evades both attacks directed at him, one due to reflex, the other just through pure luck. He shouts something in Orc and aims his own bow to the forest. Two of the workers are struck by the elves' arrows and one of them keels over.

Stiira hurries the rest of the way to the others and almost tumbles down to Kanok's feet.
 "O-orcs mining stone",  she pants,  "And... Aidan says there's elves a-about to atta ck them."  

The party can hear the clattering noise stop and some screams and a shout in Orc.
Athedia
Asha spoke for the first time that day, her voice growly but captivating.   "Please tell me he stopped them!"   She pushed past Stiira and ran toward the area she had come from, Fear growing longer as she sprinted.    Fool, doesn't he realize we can't have a war starting while we are here?  
MrE
Taesha darted after Asha, but she did not have the same intensity on her face that Asha was showing.  "What do you plan? It sounds like there is already a fight: it's too late to stop it. And these are orcs, Stiira said. We owe them nothing." 
Athedia
 "I have never met an orc, they have done no harm to my tribe.  What I know of these elves is they drove the newest member of my tribe from her people and have threatened her life."   She concentrated inside her head, speaking to Naberius.   Any experience with this sort of thing?  
Seharvepernfan
Kanok watches Asha run off, then hesitates.  He glances down at the halfling, then back towards the elf.  He does not emote what he is thinking or feeling; he simply stands there with a blank expression, perhaps coming to a decision.  Then, with little warning, he turns and runs off towards Taesha, making no attempt at stealth.

 
 Spoiler 
Spends one round doing nothing, then double moves towards Taesha, armed with shield and spear.
 
MrE
 "Well I have met them before,"  Taesha replies determinedly as they ran,  "And I am telling you they will give you no gratitude: they have rejected aid in the past..."  Her tribe had a long memory.

 "We cannot stop this fight, and trying will only endanger our own group. We have to win it."  Taesha didn't relish the idea, but she saw it as the only course of action.
Etherion
Aidan takes note of the elf who appears to be in charge, and continues watching the fight.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 She concentrated inside her head, speaking to Naberius.   Any experience with this sort of thing?   
 

In Asha's head, Naberius replies,   "I have you know that I have spoken to impatient armies and kings in the middle of chess matches! Though you wouldn't know what that is, would you? Anyway, first thing you need to do is something  spectacular  so they pay attention to you!"  


In the fight Aidan is watching, the elves shoot another set of arrows at the orcs.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 

A second post coming after this. Please don't post before it's up.
 
CWater
The orc armed with a bow again evades both arrows directed at him and shoots one at the elves on the left from Aidan. Two other orcs are hit by the other arrows, one of them has now two arrows sticking out of him and looks badly wounded. Still, they and the uninjured one grab weapons from a nearby pile and charge at the elves.

 
 Spoiler 
They are now armed with battleaxes, but don't yet get to attack this round.

The one with the bow:
 (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 


The other elf on the left (who  didn't  give the attack command) is badly hit by the arrow, but remains standing.

Asha and Taesha run up the hill to witness the ongoing fight.

 
 Spoiler 
You're about 50ft. away from them too. More or less close to where Aidan is hiding.

Feel free to post your actions for the next round. As Seharv said, Kanok will use it to catch up to you, and Stiira will follow him.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 In Asha's head, Naberius replies,   "I have you know that I have spoken to impatient armies and kings in the middle of chess matches! Though you wouldn't know what that is, would you? Anyway, first thing you need to do is something  spectacular  so they pay attention to you!"   
 

  Spectacular.  I might be able to manage spectacular.  If by spectatular you just mean attention getting...  

As she ran up the hill she noticed the fight.  This was bad, side with either group and the other would not like them.  But why side?

Instead she moved toward the elf who was closest to her.  A quick shouted word was sent in his direction.   "DROP!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Persuasive Words 5 round cool down acts as command spell, Will Negates
 


Slowing as she shouted the word she spoke to the rest of the fighting people.   "We want no harm and need answers.  I have no qualms with your tribes, but I fear we can't have you killing each other just yet." 
MrE
Taesha, unable to do much to make the group listen to her simply adds her voice to Asha's:  "STOP! I SAID STOP!" 
 
 Spoiler: Intimidate 
 (1d20-1)[ 0 ] 

Oh.....
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Forgot Roll 
Forgot my intimidate check, MrE reminded me

Intimidate:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon trotted up to where everyone else was.   "What in the name of Anlin is going on over here?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Getting ready to cast Obscuring Mist if any arrows fly our way.
 
Etherion
Aidan continues hiding, ready to intervene should his allies be attacked.
CWater
Kanok also arrives at the scene, with Stiira following close behind.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll assume you're all roughly 50 ft. away from the fighters. Tell me if you are/move closer.
 


The elf Asha commanded shakes off the effect, but turns around to look at the new arrivals with a confused expression. The other three throw quick glances in the party's direction, but attacking their mortal enemies takes priority and they shoot one more set of arrows against the approaching orcs.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 

Another post coming after this, please wait for it.
 
CWater
Still, the party's arrival seems to have distracted the elves somewhat, since all their arrows miss their targets. The orcs reach the elves shouting war cries and attempt to chop the archers to pieces with their battleaxes.

 
 Spoiler 
4 charging orcs attack.
 (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 


All of their attacks hit and the nearby vegetation is decorated with blood. The elf who turned to look at Asha is struck down screaming and holding her side.

 
 Spoiler 
Party's turn.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok takes a defensive position, shield raised and spear ready, a grim frown upon his face.

 
 Spoiler 
He finds a nearby square in front of the group with a small tree in it (+2 cover), then readies an action to stab the first orc (or elf, I guess) who moves within reach, assuming they do so with hostile intent, while fighting defensively (+2 AC, -4 attack).
 
MrE
Taesha flooded her claws with incarnum, and they glowed a brilliant blue, but she didn't attack: their distraction had seemed to have doomed the elves and now they would make no difference. Though allowing the orcs to win hurt her, fighting them would be even less wise.
CWater
The same elf who gave the attack command before shouts in Elven to the others, and those understanding the language can tell it is a order for retreat. The three elves still standing run away from the fight, downhill, but not in the party's direction. They soon disappear behind the trees.

One of the orcs lifts up his axe and brings it down on the elf knocked on the ground.
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 

She manages to roll away from it's path, but only barely.

Two others are about to run after the fleeing elves, but the one who stood on guard before shouts his own order in Orc and they stop and shift their attention to the party instead. One of them runs back to the mining site to check on their fallen comrade. The one giving the orders puts away his axe and picks up his bow again, aiming it in the party's direction. He yells something in Orc again, and after that in broken Common,  "Stop there! The hell you are?!" 
 
 Spoiler 
The three orcs are about 40 ft. away from you. Two are at the rock wall further away.

EDIT: And it seems the remaining elf is still alive.
 
Athedia
 "I am Asha from a distant tribe.  Are you an orc?  I have never seen an orc before, well I have but he was half devoured by spiders and that makes most things look similar don't you think?  But you don't look like a monster.  Taesha why are people so frightened of orcs, not nearly as big as giants.  And those elves, why did they attack?  I thought this area was a neutral zone, trading post or something.  Ah well doesn't matter now.  Is your friend alive?  We can heal people as needed, but if you want him healed this elf has to live too.  Sorry no way about it, I just don't like people dying." 

Internally Asha groaned.  Naberious took any invitation such as this as an excuse to run her mouth.  It wasn't even a good speech, more rambling thoughts.    Having fun are you?  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I am Asha from a distant tribe.  Are you an orc?  I have never seen an orc before, well I have but he was half devoured by spiders and that makes most things look similar don't you think?  But you don't look like a monster.  Taesha why are people so frightened of orcs, not nearly as big as giants.  And those elves, why did they attack?  I thought this area was a neutral zone, trading post or something.  Ah well doesn't matter now.  Is your friend alive?  We can heal people as needed, but if you want him healed this elf has to live too.  Sorry no way about it, I just don't like people dying." 

Internally Asha groaned.  Naberious took any invitation such as this as an excuse to run her mouth.  It wasn't even a good speech, more rambling thoughts.    Having fun are you?   
 

Asha hears some giddy giggling inside her mind.

The orc stares at her with grimace, though it could also be his version of a blank face.  "You let one of these pointy-eared bastards live, and they shoot you in the back next chance come" , he growls and gestures towards the elf on the ground,  "And you!! What doing here?!" 
MrE
 "A low level of intelligence coupled with natural brawn and a penchant for violence makes them ready foes for their neighbours. I would rather have treated with the elves: they are at least sophisticated. But these orcs are here, so we may as well find out what they know,"  she muttered in response to Asha.

 "We just need directions, and some help. We want to know what is around here."  She says the words slowly for the benefit of the orc's broken common, and gestures widely with her hands.

(OOC: This is me bringing out Taesha's judgmental side.)
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
 [COLOR="#0000FF"] "We just need directions, and some help. We want to know what is around here."  She says the words slowly for the benefit of the orc's broken common, and gestures widely with her hands. 
 

The orc in charge stares at Taesha with a slightly confused expression on his face that also contains suspicion,  "Why have you come here, if not know what looking? If you are looking for a new hunting place, look elsewhere." 

The other orc, who was trying to finish the remaining elf earlier, stops his axe and shoots a glance at his leader, as if asking for orders.

Asha can hear Naberius starting to complain in her mind when the attention is shifting away from his host.   "Speeeak to them girl! I can  help  you if you don't know what to say..."  
 
 Spoiler 
Just acting out the consequences of a bad pact. You can try distracting him or working around his orders if you like.😉
 
Athedia
Asha winced.  She would much rather do the talking than Naberius, he tended to reveal more... embarrassing secrets... with a deep branch she launched back into her speech.   "So I have to speak to you.  Don't ask why, I can't really explain.  At least you probably wouldn't understand, no-one really does.  Thing is it could be about anything so where should I start.  Your name seems a good place, you know I am Asha.  Who are you?  Also in answer as to whether we are looking for hunting grounds.  First, why do you assume I would WANT to share grounds with her, or anyone else for that matter.  Second this place has far to many trees.  I don't like trees.  But you do have a point.  I am on my Trial.  I find a place for my tribe to move too, with good food and little danger and I become an adult.  This will never do.  Crowded and as I said before I don't like trees."   She paused for a second then smiled.  Naberius had slipped in a little but she had it under some control.  Realizing she had actually managed to forget something she added a second later.   "And can I please heal your friend and that elf?  It would be awkward if I remember our first encounter and they died." 
CWater
The orcs stare at Asha and the leader struggles to understand her with his limited understanding of the language. He shoots a glance at the elf, when Asha mentions healing.  "No heal this. Better kill, before kills someone else.  He looks back at party.  You ask name. I is Guruk",  the name is followed by a few long words and the orc thinks for a while, before shaking his head in slight frustration,  "Guruk fine." 
 
 Spoiler: For Tuntematon 
With Comprehend Languages cast, Tuntematon can understand the words he couldn't translate. It seems he has a title, 'Guardian in the South'.
 


Guruk continues,  "You not tell why here. Is..."  He is interrupted when the elf suddenly leaps up from the ground, trying to stab the other orc that struck her earlier. Then she turns around and attempts to runs away. The attacked orc roars and swings his axe at her, but she manages to duck under it. Guruk quickly shoots an arrow after her, but misses too. He spits out a curse.  "See! Made so ran away!"  He glares at the party members. Another orc comes back from the mining site and whispers something to him. Guruk frowns, but addresses the party again,  "You say have healing?" 
Rathgar
 "Yes, by the strange ways of Anlin, I am able to bring people the miracle of healing."   Tuntematon took a few steps towards the wounded, then began to pray to Anlin for said miracles.

 
 Spoiler 
I will approach the orcs, then, if they let me get close enough to them, I shall tend to the wounded, from most injured to least injured, via Lesser Vigor.
 
CWater
The orcs let Tuntematon cast the spells, though they keep a close eye on him, axes ready. Once the wounded start to heal, their demeanor changes to less hostile, but Tuntematon can still hear them mutter suspicions of why the party is here. Their leader doesn't let them just loaf around for long though, but commands them to gather the stones they have mined and prepare for departure. To the party he says in Common:
 "Valley north from hear is our land. Not wise to come there."  He gesture to the south.  "Elves live there. Will kill you too." 
 
 Spoiler 
Anything you still want to say or ask them?
 
Etherion
Seeing that it is unlikely that the orcs will attack, Aidan comes out of the brush and rejoins the group.
MrE
 "If you are here and the elves there, where can we find the dwarven camps?"  Taesha asked, hoping to fill in their picture of the surrounding area.  "And do you know anything of the prophet that is said to haunt this peak?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "If you are here and the elves there, where can we find the dwarven camps?"  Taesha asked, hoping to fill in their picture of the surrounding area.  "And do you know anything of the prophet that is said to haunt this peak?"  
 

Guruk's expression turns considerably less suspicious after hearing Taesha's question,  "You looking for the cavefolk? They live inside the mountain."  He stomps the ground with one foot.  "Where go in they not tell."  He waves his hand west,  "Trading place higher up. But they always there before us." 

His expression turns sour,  "Stoneseekers make good weapons, but they want meat and furs as many as a two hunters gather in one winter for just one axe." 

To Taesha's other question, Guruk just shakes his head.  "The cavefolk say they can hear the voice of the mountain. Ask them. We only know Mother River." 
CWater
The orcs finish packing their things and are soon on their way to the north. Guruk throws a few glances at the party over his shoulder and shakes his head a little.

After fetching Eldien and Fang, the party also continues forward. The rock wall here is too steep to climb, but a little to the right they can find a path that leads higher up.

It is a long tiresome hike with little amusement, but eventually they reach an area that looks different than what they had passed through until now. Big boulders dominate the landscape and there are no trees, only small weeds and lichen grow here and there.
 "Here, this is where the dwarves come to trade",  Eldien says.

It is early evening, but since the place is on the eastern side of the mountain, the sun has already disappeared from view.

 
 Spoiler 
You have not yet reached the treeline, but for some reason vegetation don't seem to like it here.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok takes a long moment to scan the entire area around them, including far off into the distance.   "How do you signal the dwarves?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Nice long spot check:   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 

He's looking for anything that doesn't fit the landscape, or any people/creatures that might be visible.
 
Rathgar
While traveling up the path, Tuntematon's curiosity began to get the best of him again, so he decided to start asking some further questions of the orcs.   "Who is this Mother River you speak of?  Is she an orc, or is she what you call the main river through these mountains?" 
MrE
Following Kanok's question, Taesha began to search through the sparse undergrowth for some opening or trigger.

 
 Spoiler: Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Search:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Earlier:

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 While traveling up the path, Tuntematon's curiosity began to get the best of him again, so he decided to start asking some further questions of the orcs.   "Who is this Mother River you speak of?  Is she an orc, or is she what you call the main river through these mountains?"  
 

 "Not orc, not the river",  Guruk answers,  "She is the mother of the river and it's guardian. River's Chosen speak to her."  He points at a mountaintop farthest in the north.

 "But any tribe won't like it if strangers wander too north",  he adds with a frown.

Now:

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok takes a long moment to scan the entire area around them, including far off into the distance.   "How do you signal the dwarves?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Nice long spot check:  [roll0]

He's looking for anything that doesn't fit the landscape, or any people/creatures that might be visible.
 
 
 

 "We do not, they always send a word to us. And then they're here when we come",  Eldien answers.  "But... I think they live somewhere close by. When I was younger, some kids came here once. Children are not supposed to leave the camp alone, but they always do",  she sighs,  "Anyway, when they came back, they boasted that they had found a cave, or something. I don't know if it's true though, the adults were very angry and they didn't speak of it again." 

At first glance, Taesha finds nothing particular. Neither she or Kanok spot anything strange either, though there are a few old remains of campfires.
Seharvepernfan
Noting the signs of previous campfires, Kanok decides to scavenge what he can from then, and try to start one of his own.  He sets Eldien down and goes to start collecting whatever firewood might be left behind, and take a look around while doing so.   "If we make ourselves seen, the cavefolk may come to  us ." 
 
 Spoiler 
He's wearing his shield and is armed with his spear, and has Fang going along with him.  If it gets dark before he is done, he'll cast light on his shield and head straight back.

 Survival:   (1d20+12)[ 32 ] 
if necessary.
 
Rathgar
Being very curious about the new lands and the potential of artifacts left behind by the previous camps, Tuntematon went on to help Eldien search the area.

 
 Spoiler 
 Survival to Find Firewood And/Or Food:   (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
 Search to Find Interesting Things Left In Camp:   (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon finds nothing interesting from the old camps, but is able to collect enough firewood from the remains to set up a new fire.

There are almost no animals in sight, but after some determined searching and patient waiting Kanok comes across a stray mountain goat. Darkness falls on his way back, but the light spell cast on his shield and the campfire help him get back safely without getting lost or tripping on the uneven terrain.
 
 Spoiler 
Not sure if you wanted to hunt, but it was a nice nat 20.😛

So, rest now? And same watch order?
 
CWater
The night passes without incidents and the party wakes up to a chilly morning in the mountains. They continue to wait for locals to show up, but it seems that either they have not been noticed yet, or no one is in too much hurry to speak to them.

 
 Spoiler: Question! 
Answer this please, just a short reply is enough.🙂
Does your character sit the whole day at your current campsite, or do they wander around? If so, how much and when?
 


Having little choice in the matter, Eldien sits the whole day by the campsite, playing with rocks to pass the time. Sometimes she asks Asha questions about her new tribe, but is otherwise silent unless spoken to.

Stiira sneaks away from the camp a few times to examine the surroundings a little. She tries to move quietly and hides behind the larger rocks whenever possible.

 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Stiira sneaking around
Hide:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 
Search:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
As soon as the sun rises, Kanok puts on his armor, then arms his shield and spear.  He adorns Fang with his leather barding, then approaches Tunta.   "I will look for sign of cavefolk.  You are quick; will you come?"   Regardless of the answer, he sets off to search the strange area around their camp, however large it is.  He looks for any sign of tracks, caves, pathways, and anything artificial.

 
 Spoiler 
 Survival:   (1d20+12)[ 24 ] 
 Search:   (1d20+1)[ 5 ] 
if either of those are applicable.
He will be making constant spot checks.

If he/they are set upon by an especially dangerous animal, like a large-sized bear or a smilodon, or a pack of wolves, he will cast Hide from Animals on Tunta (or Fang if Tunta is not there), then run.  If they come across any non-dangerous animals, he will cast Speak with Animals to question them about any caves or two-legged creatures that dwell around here.

Specifically, he will head out to the edge of this strange plant-less, boulder-strewn area, then circle around it's edges until he comes back to where he started, then head towards it's center, then wander around it towards whatever looks the most promising.  He goes about that routine until he finds anything.

If he gets back to camp at sunset, and nothing happens or he finds nothing, he will wait until it's totally dark, then cast light on an arrow and fire it straight up as high as he can.  The intention there is to catch the attention of anybody in the area, and draw them to our campfire.
 
CWater
As they wander around, Kanok and Tuntematon come across little things of interest. They see a few birds in the sky and find some bloody feathers lying around on the ground sometimes, but any other local fauna (if there is any) stays hidden.

They have circled around the whole area and are heading towards the center, when they hear something that could be careful steps on the rocky terrain. Looking around, Kanok and Fang spot a huge beak of a bird peeking out from behind one of the large boulders. Fang also detects a strong scent of blood from the same direction.

With his sharp ears, Kanok also hears faint noises from the opposite direction.

The sun is just about to disappear behind the mountain again, but it's not going to get dark for some time.

 
 Spoiler 
The bird's beak is about 30 ft. away from you. There are large boulders all around, so even a bigger animal could hide behind them.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok freezes, then looks to Tunta, speaking in a quiet voice, barely more than a whisper,   "A large meat-eater is ahead, something else is behind us; after my spell, do not attack."    He hands Tunta his spear, then uses that hand to weave through the motions of a spell.  Finishing, he touches the small horse-man on his shoulder.

 
 Spoiler 
He casts Hide from Animals on Tunta.  If they don't attack, he will then cast Speak with Animals, which has a verbal component.  If they do attack, he tries to get his spear back from Tunta before they get to him.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about the delay, I hope you're still around.
 


The bird draws it's neck back, but too late. The tasty creatures suddenly stopped and looked this way. They noticed. And... The bird reaches out again, confused. The meatier one is gone! Can't see, can't smell. The other ones must not disappear!

Kanok and Tuntematon see how a very large bird, taller than the small centaur's bigger cousins, comes to view and charges at them, letting out a powerful shriek. It has long feet with large claws, a likewise long neck and a dangerous looking beak, but no wings to speak of. Taces of dried blood cover its feathers.

 
 Spoiler:  Initiative 
It might help with the visualization if you remember that birds are actually decendants of dinosaurs.😏

Initiative:
Bird:  (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
Kanok:  (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 
Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
 


Taesha can hear the shriek all the way to the camp where the rest of the party is, except for Stiira who wandered off sometime ago. She can tell which direction it came from, but can't be sure how far away.
CWater
The bird charges forward with great speed and tries to stab Kanok with its sharp beak.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  (charging)
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
OH.
Didn't expect a possible critical.
Crit confirm:  (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
 

Kanok manages to turn away a bit, so the bird doesn't quite manage to pierce a hole in his throat, but it stabs a serious wound to his side.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok takes 14 damage.

His, Fang's and Tuntematon's turn. The ones in the camp can make Listen checks to hear the fight, Taesha already noticed it.
 
Seharvepernfan
Purely on instinct, Kanok snaps, thrusting his spear hard into the beast's chest with a roar,  "RRRAAAAAAGHHHH!!!!!" 

This wasn't his plan; he did not want to fight.  Indeed he intended to run if attacked, but with the beast right on top of him, and the wound driving his anger to a peak, he lost sight of all that and let the rage take over.  He did not even try to go around for a flank with Fang, or even order the dog to attack, he simply stabs ahead as hard as he possibly can.  If the beast has any sense, it'll get the message and run.

 
 Spoiler 
Besides, he has an invisible healer right next to him.

Rage:  HP 21/35, AC 17.

 Spear:   (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   [roll]1d6+8[roll]
if critical:
 Spear:   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   [roll]1d6+8[roll]
 
CWater
Kanok retaliates by stabbing a deep wound to the bird's side, the fury increasing his strength. The bird lets out another ear-splitting shriek, but doesn't otherwise seem yet too bothered or frightened by the attack.

Aidan can also hear the shrieks, though there is a bit of echo, so he can't be entirely sure from what direction they came from.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll give Rathgar a little more time to respond before I'll move forward.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19 

Seeing his friend hurt so badly, Tuntematon pulled an enchanted reindeer antler and ran up to Kanok, tapping him on the shoulder and lending him some of the antler's healing power.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Action: Draw Wand of Cure Light Wounds while moving over next to Kanok.
Standard Action: Cast Cure Light Wounds on Kanok

Rolls:
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha turns her head as hears some strange cry then rises.  "I heard something from that direction. It sounds as though Kanok's scouting has got him into trouble. Eldien, you stay here and wait for Stiira to return, then tell her which direction we went. Asha, with me!" 

Taesha runs towards the source of the sound with her claws glowing.

 
 Spoiler: Soulbinds 
Taesha binds the same soulbindings again.
 
CWater
The prey is resisting more than the bird expected, but it's not ready to give up on it yet. It attempts to strike again, aiming for Kanok's throat again.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ] 
 


But Kanok's dragonhide armour is strong and this time the bird gets only a sore beak.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok and Tuntematon's turn.
 
Athedia
Asha paused then knelt next to Eldien.   "If anything comes this way try to hide but strike as needed."   She touched the spear and smiled.   "I will be back soon." 

With that she grasped Fear at the spears smallest size and ran after Taesha.
Etherion
Aidan pulls put his bow, and follows Taesha and Asha.
Seharvepernfan
A wild-eyed grimace appears upon Kanok's face.  It has been a long time since he has performed in his role as lead hunter, and this was something he'd never gone up against, but in his current state, such thoughts barely reached the conscious level.  He does not move, he does not call to his dog.  All of his energy is focused on his spear.  With another short roar, he strikes.

 
 Spoiler 


Rage:  7 rounds left, HP 30/35, AC 17
 Spear:   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+8)[ 14 ] 
if critical:
 Spear:   (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+8)[ 11 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining) 

Seeing that his friend was in much better shape right now, Tuntematon drew his club and attempted to strike the foul bird.  With that, he faded into sight of any animals that could not see him before, and mid swing, he shouted his command word,  "Hämärtää!" , which once again turned his outline indistinct.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Draw Club (holding Wand of Cure Light Wounds in off hand)
Free Action: Take 5 foot step to get next to bird
Standard Action: Attack Bird with Club (possibly hitting bird flat footed)

Rolls:
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
The bird backs away after the second powerful stab from Kanok's spear. Tuntematon's club scrapes it too as it moves to eye them from a bit of distance. Stretching to it's full height, the huge bird let's out a new deafening shriek, the loudest 'til now. A moment later Kanok and Tuntematon can hear heavy footsteps approaching fast from the south. The bird looks back at the two, staring at them with fierce black eyes.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note! Something is approaching you from the south in-game, but from the  "north"  on the map. (Since I only just realized I had drawn it that way.) Oh, and the darker gray squares are rocks too big to jump over.
 
 


Taesha, Asha and Aidan run through the rocky terrain towards the roars and shrieks. As they get closer Aidan spots some movement ahead and he and Taesha also hear a few hasty steps, before a similiar large bird ambushes them from behind one of the bigger boulders, shrieking so their ears will start ringing too.

 
 Spoiler: Details 
You are running towards the south. The camp is to the north from where you are. So the noises Kanok and Tuntematon hear cannot come from the rest of the party.

The second bird tried to surprise you, but since Taesha and Aidan spotted/heard it, they get to roll initiative to see if they can react before it strikes.

Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
Bird:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 

Sorry, no luck. I'll post more in a moment.
 
CWater
The bird charges towards them and tries to stab Taesha with its sharp beak.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 

Oh,  just  missed even if she's flat-footed.
 

But Taesha's quick reflexes allow her to avoid the worst of the blow and the bird only hits its beak to her armour.

 
 Spoiler: Map2 
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Wasting no time, Kanok hurls his spear at the wounded bird, seeking to force it to flee or bring it down.  He can hear the other shrieks, and suspects trouble with the rest of the group.  After throwing the spear, he moves towards the beast while drawing his club, presenting it with a dangerous and aggressive enemy.

 
 Spoiler 

Raging, 6 rounds left.  HP 30/35, AC 17

 Shortspear:   (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+8)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+8)[ 12 ] 

Moves to Z10.
 
Etherion
Soon after the bird attempts to strike Taesha, Aidan takes a step closer and shoots at it.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Free:5 ft step to AB 37
Standard Action (Using point blank shot): Shoot the bird
 (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
If crit:
 (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha slashes at the beast with her claw before stepping away in order to make the most of her next attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 

Move action: move 20 feet backwards to AB37 (and I guess eat an AoO - therefore Tumble Check:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] )
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (4 rounds remaining)
Position: 10V 
 "Don't you run away, giant kana!  You pick a fight with us, and we'll have to see how you taste!"   With that, Tuntematon put away his club and his reindeer antler, getting ready to draw his sling and shoot at the creature.
Athedia
 "Probably like chicken."   Asha hefted her spear and thrust at the bird.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving withing striking range.  Spear still short ATM

Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan's arrow hits the bird in the chest, producing yet another cry from it. Taesha cuts the bird with her claws, but as she steps away the bird pecks her in retaliation and the warrior stumbles back, running into the ranger.

 
 Spoiler 
Not saying that you couldn't share the same space in these circumstances, but I'm going to rule it so that Taesha pushed him back one square because that visual amuses me more.😛
 


Asha moves forward and also strikes true with her spear. The bird turns its attention to her and then it is the spirit binder's turn to have a sharp beak approach her throat with alarming speed.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
 

While it doesn't quite get to slice her throat open, it still digs its beak deep to her flesh, an inch below her left collarbone.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 


The bird Kanok and Tuntematon threatened glares at them varily. Without taking its eyes off Kanok it takes a few steps to the left. The sound of footsteps grows louder and soon a another bird leaps over the rocks to attack Kanok. It is also grey and otherwise similiar to the other one, except for the colorful tuft of feathers on top of its head.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
 


Kanok too feels some pain as the bird wounds him to the same side that the other bird already ripped open.

 
 Spoiler: Other Map 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Current HP 
Kanok: 19/35
Aidan: 25/25
Asha: 14/25
Tuntematon: 19/19
Taesha:  17/28  20/28 Ah, almost forgot Taesha has DR.

Party's turn.
 
Etherion
Aidan steps next to Taesha, and fires another arrow.

 
 Spoiler: Actions  
Move to AA 37
Shoot the bird:
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
If Crit:
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Without a conscious thought, Kanok spins, swinging his club upward towards the thing's beaked face.  He screams in pain and fury,  "HUUURRAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Takes a 5ft step to his left, into Y10.

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
if critical:
 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha screws up her face in pain, as the bird leaves a heavy cut down one side of her body, but she doesn't halt, and after recovering from her collision with Aidan, sprints back towards the bird and at the last moment leaps into the air and slices with all four claws.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump Check, DC 20:  (1d20+17)[ 32 ] 
Attack Roll  (1d20+7)[ 10 ]  Damage  (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Attack Roll  (1d20+7)[ 27 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
Attack Roll  (1d20+7)[ 9 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
Attack Roll  (1d20+7)[ 25 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 rounds remaining)
Position: 10V 

The centaur drew his sling and fired a bullet at the bird threatening Kanok.

 
 Spoiler 
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
This time Aidan's arrow misses, but Taesha's claws cut deep wounds to the lower part of the bird's neck.

Asha attacks the bird with her spear.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 


She misses, but the bird is still heavily wounded and it decides to back away, turn tail and runs.


Tuntematon's stone misses. Kanok's club connects with the new birds middle, but it seems only to anger it further and it keeps attacking.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Right, there was one more bird!
 


The other bird eyes the blurred Tuntematon. It can't quite see where the centaur is standing, but he smells highly edible and doesn't seem as dangerous as the other one.. The bird charges towards Tuntematon and tries to peck him.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
Ah, forgot to roll miss due to blur again, but it misses anyway.

Party's turn.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Sensing the other beast moving behind him, Kanok turns, steps closer, and slams his club down at the creature, center mass.

 
 Spoiler 
Adjusts into X10.

Rage (4 rounds left)

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
if critical:
 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
 
MrE
Having caused the bird to flee, Taesha turns to the others to check none are too badly heard before saying:  "We still need to find the others."  In case she has forgotten which direction she thought they were in before, she attempts to listen for the sounds of battle.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha looked at the back of the fleeing bird.   "That was no chicken.  Unless it was a giants... in which case I vote we run very fast." 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (2 rounds remaining)
Position: 10V 

Seeing another threat up close, Tuntematon drew his club back out and tried to knock it back.

 
 Spoiler 
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
The more badly wounded bird shrieks and circles to the other side of Tuntematon, to get away from the raging barbarian. It almost tramples Fang on its way, but fortunately the dog is quick enough to evade it.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm assuming Fang has enough sense (or instinct) to jump to the side when a large bird tries to overrun him.😉
 


The other bird on the other hand seems to be engulfed in its own blind fury and doesn't slow down it's attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 


But even heavily wounded himself, Kanok is able to avoid the strike.

Taesha, Asha and Aidan run towards the sound of battle and soon arrive at the scene.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Current HP 
Kanok: 14/35 (8/29)
Aidan: 25/25
Asha: 14/25
Tuntematon: 19/19
Taesha: 20/28
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok turns back to the first bird-beast and continues his slow circling, yet again bashing the thing with his club.

 
 Spoiler 
Adjusts into X9.

Rage (3 rounds left)

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 12 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan fires an arrow at the retreating bird.
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Shoot B1:
 (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 7 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
So, I kinda forgot I have preferred enemy: animals. 😳 So, assuming these birds are normal animals, I should have +2 to damage rolls.
 
Athedia
Asha spoke to her spear, causing the weapon to grow larger in her hand.  She stayed back ready to stab at anything that moved toward her, but still in pain from her wounds.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Starting Position: 10V, Ending Position: 10T 
 "Get back here!  If you're going to attack us, have the decency to finish the fight!"   With that, the centaur chased after the fleeing bird, tossing his club at it to try to bring down their prospective dinner.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to 10T
Standard Action: Attack bird at 10R with thrown club

 Ranged Attack With Club:   (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha runs by Tuntematon going the other way and leaps past Kanok as she lunges for the furious bird.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to Y10.
Jump Check (DC 20)  (1d20+17)[ 34 ] 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ]   Damage  (1d20+5)[ 7 ]    6 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]   Damage  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]    10 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ]   Damage  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]    6 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ]   Damage  (1d20+4)[ 13 ]    8 
 
CWater
The fleeing bird ducks and Tuntematon's club flies right over its head. However, it fails to simultaneously evade Aidan's arrow, which scrapes the birds throat. Blood pouring from the wound, it falls to the ground. It struggles to get up again, but doesn't have the strength.

 
 Spoiler 
It's in the negatives, just not dead.
 


The bird with the tuft on its head is wounded both by Kanok's club and the claws in Taesha's hands and feet. However, in its rage it seems blind to the injuries as it continues its attack, lunging at Kanok again.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
 

But he is able to step out of the way, only his ears hurt by the bird's scream.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Note 
Party's turn. Oh, and Listen checks please.
 
Seharvepernfan
With unrelenting fury, Kanok slams his club into the softer flesh of the terrestrial avian.  He is better than his foe, and will not stop until it has fled or been brought down.  No mere beast is going to best him!

 
 Spoiler 
Adjusts into X8.

Rage (2 rounds left)

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
 
Athedia
 "Are you sure we aren't on nesting ground?"   Asha continued to stay back, slightly terrified by the vicious way the others were attacking.  She looked around for any sign of younglings.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
Spot (since she is looking around):  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 

Total Defense.
 
Etherion
Aidan steps next to Asha, and fires an arrow at the bird that remains standing.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move to X 14, shoot B2
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
Crit:
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
[roll]1d8+4[/roll
 
MrE
Taesha slices once more with her claw before withdrawing for a run up again.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 

Actions: Attack roll  (1d20+7)[ 9 ]  Damage  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Move to Y15. Tumble check:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Position: 10T 
 "Alright, one down, one to go."   The centaur then slung a sling bullet at the remaining giant bird.

 
 Spoiler 
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 

Also, as per DM instructions:
 Listen:   (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok beats the remaining bird with his club, but despite all of its wounds the determined bird remains standing. Aidan's second arrow misses, but Tuntematon hits the bird on the head. Taesha's attack misses too as she backs away from the bird and it quickly reaches after her.
 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 
 

But it's not quite fast enough.

It doesn't chase after her though, but continues its duel with Kanok.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ] 
 

However, it's beak only bounces of the warriors sturdy armour.

The other bird on the ground struggles still to get up, but life is quickly draining out of it.

Asha doesn't see any chicks about, but

 
 Spoiler: Everyone but Aidan. 
suddenly a faint scream reaches their ears. It's coming from the direction of your camp.
 
Athedia
Asha spun and ran.   "Eldien!"   She shouldn't have left the girls behind, not in this unfamiliar land.
MrE
Taesha let out a surprised gasp at hearing the cry. And saw Asha run, but she was pragmatic: this creature could hurt Kanok without her help, so she leaped into action slicing at it with all of her claws.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to Y10. Jump Check, DC 20  (1d20+17)[ 26 ] 

Attack roll  (1d20+7)[ 26 ]  Damage  (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Attack roll  (1d20+7)[ 12 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
Attack roll  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
Attack roll  (1d20+7)[ 11 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Only one of Taesha's attacks hits the bird, though it cuts a deep wound to its middle. But the bird is still not falling down nor running away.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Starting Position: 10T Ending Postion: ??? 

Hearing the scream, Tuntematon feared for the worst.   "That poor elven girl, she must be in danger!"   With that, he galloped off back to the camp as fast as he could.

 
 Spoiler 
Taking full round action to run, moving 200 feet
 
Seharvepernfan
With his last bit of angry strength, Kanok whips his club up at the bird's head, hoping that this will be the final stroke.   "HHHUUUUUURAAAAAAAGGGHHHHH!!!!!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Last round of rage.

 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 
if critical:
 Club:   (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 

If that doesn't drop the bird, he'll adjust away from it, giving Aidan a clear shot.
 
MrE
Taesha stabs at the bird once more before withdrawing to attack again.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack Roll:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ]  Damage  (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Move Action retreat 25ft, Tumble against AoO:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan fires another arrow at the bird.
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Shoot at the bird:
 (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 

Crit:
 (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 5 ] 
Edit: forgot I was within 30 ft, add 1 to all rolls.
 
CWater
Tiredness is starting creep to Kanok's limbs and his rage fades away. His last strike is too weak to harm the bird through its strong skin. But Aidan's aim is good and his arrow pierces the avians throat, causing it to finally fall down.

 
 Spoiler 
And the bird is finally down!😛
 

 
 Spoiler 
Tuntematon and Asha are still running this turn, I assume the rest are going to follow?

Though Kanok is fatigued, so he cannot run.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok fully returns to his senses as his arms drop to his sides, and visibly slumps while breathing heavily.  He nods respectfully to Taesha and Aidan before they turn to go.  Knowing that he will not get there as quickly as them, he decides to take care of some things here first.  He puts away his club, walks over to the further bird, casts a minor healing spell on it, then goes to retrieve his spear.  Then he begins walking back to the camp with fang, using his wand on himself a few times.  Once he is done with that, he gets his spear in hand and begins to jog, listening for anything new while doing so.

 
 Spoiler 
Casts Cure Minor Wounds on the first bird to fall in his fight.

 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
-if the first two heal him by more than 12, he won't do a third one

 Listen:   (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
 
MrE
With the last bird dropping, Taesha turns back to the camp.  "Will you manage Kanok?"  she asked, seeing that Asha, Aidan and Tuntematon were already speeding away.  "Eldien is in danger." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok nods grimly.   "Go." 
MrE
Taesha nods and darts away, joining the others running back towards camp, deterined to get there in time to save their companion.
CWater
The bird makes a weak attempt to move when Kanok approachs it, but it doesn't have strength to either attack or flee. After he has cast the spell it makes a few seemingly random movements, before sitting up more comfortably. It keeps its eyes firmly on Kanok and Fang even as they walk away.

---

Asha and Tuntematon hurry back towards the camp. When they arrive, they see Eldien leaning to a rock where they left her. She is bloody, but conscious, and is clutching the spear Asha gave her in her hand. But on their left they see a big dog that has Stiira backed to another rock. The little witch is holding her side that is bleeding badly. Hearing their arrival, the hound turns its head towards them and growls. It has two heads.

 
 Spoiler: Visual 
 
 

  "Oh my.."   Asha hears Naberius say in her mind. Even if she managed to get him better under control today, that doesn't mean he would know how to keep quiet,   "A cousin... or something. No sense talking to those, they've got no manners  at all ."  
  "But watch out for both heads"  ,  he adds trying to be helpful nevertheless,   "They both bite."  
 
 Spoiler: Initiative 

Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 9 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
Hound:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 

Eldien goes last, in case it matters.

 Wait until I confirm the order and post a map, please. 
 


When the dog is momentarily distracted by the others' arrival, Stiira slips past it and runs to hide behind a rock.

 
 Spoiler 
Tuntematon's turn.

Btw, are you looking around, or is the two-headed dog stealing all your attention?
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Starting Position: 58Z Ending Postion: 57AH 

The centaur did not like what he saw, so he tried to let the others know what danger awaited back here, shouting at the top of his lungs.   "There's a wolf thing attacking Stiira and Eldien!  And our friends are bloodied!"   Tuntematon then rushed over next to Stiira, shouting his armor's command word,  "Hämhärtää!" , as he galloped.  Once he made it to the halfling, he summoned a miracle from Anlin to heal her.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move from 58Z to 57AH (40 feet)
Free Action: Activate Blurring effect on armor
Standard Action: Cast Lesser Vigor on Stiira, granting Fast Healing 1 for 12 rounds
 
Seharvepernfan
After using the wand on himself, Kanok puts away his spear and gets out a bit of cooked meat, which he then drops on the ground between himself and the bird.  He looks at the food, then the bird.  He waits a few moments, to let it calm down a bit and think about the food.  Then, as calmly as possible, he casts a spell.    I must be quick.  

Sounding like a large bird, Kanok warks and warbles at the creature, causing Fang to twist his head and stare in confusion at Kanok.  He withdraws his wand,  "I give you this food, I will make pain go away with this.  You tell me where short,"   He holds his hand out at about chest level,  "ones like me are, or show me.  Soon I will not be able to speak, be quick." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casts Speak with Animals, duration: 1 minute.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Starting Position: 58Z Ending Postion: 57AH 

The centaur did not like what he saw, so he tried to let the others know what danger awaited back here, shouting at the top of his lungs.   "There's a wolf thing attacking Stiira and Eldien!  And our friends are bloodied!"   Tuntematon then rushed over next to Stiira, shouting his armor's command word,  "Hämhärtää!" , as he galloped.  Once he made it to the halfling, he summoned a miracle from Anlin to heal her.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move from 58Z to 57AH (40 feet)
Free Action: Activate Blurring effect on armor
Standard Action: Cast Lesser Vigor on Stiira, granting Fast Healing 1 for 12 rounds
 
 
 

 " T-thank you ",  Stiira whispers,  "I thought it was going to kill me..",  she states the obvious. She glances back at where the two-headed dog was and has barely the time to scream for the hound has run after her and the left head tries to bite her again.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
 


Aidan and Taesha arrive at the campsite.

 
 Spoiler: Init &amp; Turns 
If they can beat the dog's init (15), they get to act this turn.
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 After using the wand on himself, Kanok puts away his spear and gets out a bit of cooked meat, which he then drops on the ground between himself and the bird.  He looks at the food, then the bird.  He waits a few moments, to let it calm down a bit and think about the food.  Then, as calmly as possible, he casts a spell.    I must be quick.  

Sounding like a large bird, Kanok warks and warbles at the creature, causing Fang to twist his head and stare in confusion at Kanok.  He withdraws his wand,  "I give you this food, I will make pain go away with this.  You tell me where short,"   He holds his hand out at about chest level,  "ones like me are, or show me.  Soon I will not be able to speak, be quick." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casts Speak with Animals, duration: 1 minute.
 
 
 

The bird looks warily at Kanok, but the meat does draw its attention.  "Food? Smells strange",  the bird pecks the cooked meat carefully, then eyes Kanok again.  "You hurt with long claw." 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Trip 
Forgot that the dog would try to trip Stiira.

Hound:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ]  Forgot her -4 penalty due to size, but she makes it anyway.
 


The dog sinks its teeth to Stiira's shoulder and tries to pull her to the ground, but the little witch is nimble enough to slip away. Though she is seriously wounded by the bite.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Next turn 
Asha's and Tuntematon's turn
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Moves to AF57 
Move action in title double move action
 


Asha ran forward not quite reaching the hound attacking Stiira.   "Get to Eldien!  We can take care of this!" 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (4 rounds remaining)
Postion: 57AH 

Having given her the miracle of long term healing, Tuntematon then draws his magic antler and taps the halfling with it, giving her even more healing.   "Stiira, get away from here, I'll hold him off!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Draw Wand of Cure Light Wounds
Standard Action: Use 1 wand charge to cast Cure Light Wounds

Rolls:
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+3)[ 6 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Wasting no time on the cautious bird, Kanok walks right up and touches it with his wand, while speaking the command word.   "It feels better."   It was not a question.   "I do again if you show where they are." 
 
 Spoiler 
Uses Wand of Cure Light Wounds.
 
MrE
Taesha keep springting towards the commotion ahead, she could here Asha, Aidan and Tuntematon ahead of her, and she just wanted to get there in time. Stiira was there, and Eldien, and though she might not like either particularly, they were part of the group now, for good or ill, and she wouldn't lose them.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (4 rounds remaining)
Postion: 57AH 

Having given her the miracle of long term healing, Tuntematon then draws his magic antler and taps the halfling with it, giving her even more healing.   "Stiira, get away from here, I'll hold him off!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Draw Wand of Cure Light Wounds
Standard Action: Use 1 wand charge to cast Cure Light Wounds

Rolls:
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 
 
 

Stiira nods and puts again some distance between herself and the dog. She doesn't run all the way back to Eldien, but stops to glance over her shoulder, looking worried.

The dog takes a step after the witch, but doesn't continue the pursuit. Instead, both of its heads growl at Tuntematon and try to bite him.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Left head:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
Miss due to Blur:  (1d5)[ 5 ] 
If hit, trip:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 

Right head:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
Miss due to Blur:  (1d5)[ 2 ] 
If hit, trip:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
 

The centaur is able to evade both heads.

 
 Spoiler: No map yet, sorry 
I can't update the map at the moment, I'll add it later. The dog is in the same square Stiira was in the last round, AI57.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Wasting no time on the cautious bird, Kanok walks right up and touches it with his wand, while speaking the command word.   "It feels better."   It was not a question.   "I do again if you show where they are." 
 
 Spoiler 
Uses Wand of Cure Light Wounds.
 
 
 

The bird backs away from Kanok after the healing has restored some of its strength.  "Those smaller than you, they hard to catch. They hide under rocks. But meat good." 
 
 Spoiler: Diplomacy? 
Yes, it is a bird, but I think its appropriate. You'll get a circumstance bonus from the meat and healing it.🙂
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 20, Touch 15, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 rounds remaining)
Postion: 57AH 

Trying to shoo away the beast, Tuntematon shouted instructions at it, though he doubted it could understand him.   "Go away, we aren't worth the trouble!"   With that said, Tuntematon rared back on his hind legs and attempted to kick the wolf in the teeth with his front hooves, all the while being careful not to get bit by said teeth.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Full Round Action: Fight Defensively, attacking with both hooves

Rolls:
 Attack With Right Hoof:   (1d20-8)[ -2 ] 
 Damage With Right Hoof:   (1d3)[ 2 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20-8)[ -7 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d3)[ 2 ] 
 Attack With Left Hoof:   (1d20-8)[ 0 ] 
 Damage With Left Hoof:   (1d3)[ 2 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20-8)[ 0 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d3)[ 1 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha keeps running, now panting hard after such a distance, as she flies towards the battle.

 
 Spoiler 
Full Round Action: Run (speed x4). Move to 58 AC
 
Etherion
Aidan runs forward and fires an arrow at the hound.
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to AE 53
Shoot at the hound
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 

Crit:
 (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 

Assuming this thing isn't an animal.
 
CWater
Aidan's arrow hits the dog in the side and it lets out a small yelp.

Stiira looks at her comrades with worry, but runs back the rest of the way to check on Eldien.

The dog growls and both head's try to bite Tuntematon again. After the attack it takes a step back so the ranger couldn't shoot it a second time.
 
 Spoiler 
Left head:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
Miss due to Blur:  (1d5)[ 3 ] 
If hit, trip:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 

Right head:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
Miss due to Blur:  (1d5)[ 1 ] 
If hit, trip:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 

The right head can't locate the blurred centaur, but the left manages to sink it's teeth to one of his legs and tries to drag him down to the ground.

 
 Spoiler: Map &amp; Turn 
Party's turn. Rathgar, roll opposed trip check please.

 
 


---
Back at the first fight's site, the wounded bird reaches it's neck and snatches the meat Kanok offered it.  "Under the rocks, yes. There they hide."  It backs away a little more with the meat hanging from its beak, but stops after a few steps and looks almost as if it's considering the situation.  "More meat?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok quickly retrieves however much meat he has left and holds it out so the bird can see it,  "Show me where they hide, and you will have this.  I make more pain go away, too." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok quickly retrieves however much meat he has left and holds it out so the bird can see it,  "Show me where they hide, and you will have this.  I make more pain go away, too."  
 

The bird stands still, keeping its eyes fixed on the meat for a good while. At one point it almost seems like it's going to lunge forward and try to snatch the food from Kanok, but in the end it doesn't take one step in his direction. Instead, the bird turns around and starts to walk slowly to the north-east. It doesn't quite limp, but it's obvious that walking is painful for it.
Seharvepernfan
 "Should not have attacked us."   The caveman thinks to himself, while following the bird at a respectable distance, Fang in tow.  He knows what that kind of pain feels like, but he will not feel sorrow for this beast.  He gazes back towards the sound of the scream, hopeful that his allies are faring well.  This might be their only chance to find the stone-seekers, however, so he must seize it.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 12/19, Blurred (2 rounds remaining), Prone
Postion: 57AH 

The centaur got ahead of himself in the bravery department, and as a result let the doublefanged hound knock him off balance.   "Gah!  By the name of Anlin, I must not falter!"   With that, Tuntematon attempted to stand up and strike the wolf one more time.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Stand Up (Provoking Attack of Opportunity)
Standard Action: Attack with right hoof

Rolls:
 Attack With Right Hoof:   (1d20-4)[ -3 ] 
 Damage With Hoof:   (1d3)[ 3 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20-4)[ -2 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d3)[ 1 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  "Should not have attacked us."   The caveman thinks to himself, while following the bird at a respectable distance, Fang in tow.  He knows what that kind of pain feels like, but he will not feel sorrow for this beast.  He gazes back towards the sound of the scream, hopeful that his allies are faring well.  This might be their only chance to find the stone-seekers, however, so he must seize it. 
 

Kanok follows the bird through the rocky landscape, his sense of direction tells him that the capsite is now somewhere to his left. They move slowly and thus the way feels long, Kanok might even start to wonder if the bird is even leading him anywhere and the spell has run out so he cannot ask. But then the bird stops next to a larger rock and a pair of boulders that are leaning to it. It claws the ground right in front of the boulders a little, before looking back at Kanok. Examining the structure, Kanok notices that there are older claw marks on the rock too, and signs of the boulder having been moved before.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 12/19, Blurred (2 rounds remaining), Prone
Postion: 57AH 

The centaur got ahead of himself in the bravery department, and as a result let the doublefanged hound knock him off balance.   "Gah!  By the name of Anlin, I must not falter!"   With that, Tuntematon attempted to stand up and strike the wolf one more time.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Stand Up (Provoking Attack of Opportunity)
Standard Action: Attack with right hoof

Rolls:
 Attack With Right Hoof:   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 Damage With Hoof:   (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d5)[ 2 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 
 
 

As he gets up, the hound's left head tries to bite Tuntematon again.
 
 Spoiler: Attack and another note 
I forgot to ask, roll a Fortitude save please. If the AoO hits, roll two.

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
Miss due to Blur:  (1d5)[ 2 ] 
If hit, trip:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 

Ah, another hit. Roll another opposed trip check.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok nods, approaching the bird with the meat held out and the bone wand in hand.  He drops the meat in front of the bird to one side, then speaks the words to activate the wand, tapping the bird on it's other side with it.  Quickly backing away, he sheathes the wand, then arms his shield and draws his spear.  Wasting no time, he sprints in the direction of the fight.
MrE
Taesha runs into the fray once more springing into the air, and flailing wildly at her foe.

 
 Spoiler 
Depending on which of space the creature is in (is it H on the map, or the greyed in square?) Taesha will more to either 58 AG or 59 AH to attack it.
Jump Check: DC 20,  (1d20+17)[ 35 ] 
The Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ]  Damage  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
And another:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
And another:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
And another:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ]  Damage  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Taesha surprises the hound and slashes it with the claws in her hand and both feet. Her last attack rips one of its throats open and kicks the dog back. It remains lying on the ground, lifeless.

 
 Spoiler 
Fight over!
 
Rathgar
 "Well, this is a bad start to a day.  First terrible birds, then terrible dogs.  What next, terrible shrews?  In any case, who all got hurt in all that mess?  I can see Eldien is a little worse for wear, and I can feel that I am.  In any case, I'll speak with Anlin and see what hän has in mind."   The centaur then trotted over to where Eldien was sitting.  And with that, he began to pray to Anlin aloud in the strange language that few knew.   "Kiinnostaisiko sinua tulla meidän kokoukseen?"   With that, some healing power was summoned, healing both Tuntematon and the elf.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Lesser Vigor twice, once on myself, once on the elf, for 13 HP healed each (amount went up due to leveling)
 
CWater
Eldien's wounds heal and she struggles to stand up with her one leg, leaning to the spear Asha lent her.  "Thank you",  she says,  "I tried to fight, but... It is hard."  She hangs her head.

After a while, Kanok comes back to camp with Fang.

 
 Spoiler 
What would you like to do next?
 
Athedia
Asha came and helped support Eldien.   "I should have stayed.  You fought well, even if you are not as able.  I will not leave again." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok snorts in relief when he sees the entire group still standing, and in good shape, by the looks of it, though he notes areas of spilt blood.  He looks around at the group for a moment, then speaks in his signature gruff tone,  "I found a dwarf hole, so it looks." 

Curious about the two-headed dog corpse, he moves over to examine it, bending down and looking it over.  Fang sniffs it, then growls.  At one point, Kanok pulls one of it's mouths back to look at it's teeth.  After a couple minutes, he apparently satisfies his curiosity, and stands up.   "Hm.  Let's cook some bird." 
 
 Spoiler 
Gonna see if he knows anything about this creature, and if any of it is useful or valuable (ya never know).

 Nature:   (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok leads the group back to the rock formation the bird shoved him. (The avian is no longer there.) Eldien tries to walk leaning to Asha, but is so slow that the binder has to eventually carry her if they want to keep up with the others.

As Kanok noticed before, the marks on the ground around one of the boulders look like it has been moved before, possibly several times. It is however too heavy for any of them to move alone, though together they might be able to.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok scratches his head,  "Let's move the camp here.  I'll get firewood.  Aidan, will you start skinning it?"   With that, he heads back to the old camp to gather whatever wood is left.

 
 Spoiler 
If the remaining wood is enough, he'll help skin/cook the bird and collect whatever useful bits are left.  If it's not, he'll go look for some more in the nearest likely direction.  Somebody should bang on the rocks with a metal object while he's doing this (all he has is his spear and arrow heads, which aren't optimal).
 
Etherion
Before leaving for the rock formation, Aidan pulls his arrow out of the hound.

(In response to Kanok)

 May as well. 

Aidan walks over to the bird and removes the arrow from it. He then pulls out his knife and begins skinning the animal.
Athedia
Asha helped Eldien to the ground.   "Who here needs to be patched up?  If more of those things attack we don't want to be wounded." 

She as balanced on the balls of her feet as she spoke, kneeling but ready to flee if more birds or dogs appeared.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok returns with an armful of wood, and the small band of collected dreamers spends a couple hours skinning, cooking, and eating a giant bird, then preparing it's bones, claws, and beak into tool materials, all under a bright blue sky in the the boulder-strewn mountain valley.  The sun has already set behind the towering peaks, but the day has long to go.  Once the busy work is done, and the waiting work is under way, the burly caveman finds a hard and sturdy rock with which to beat against the supposed entrance of the Stoneseeker tunnels.  He tries to find a rhythm similar in cadence to the dialect of giant that he knows, and sets about beating the rocks until his massive arms grow weary.  Then, he rests by the fire and eats a bellyful of cooked bird, sharing plenty with his loyal companion.

 
 Spoiler 
Pending DM approval, of course.
 
Athedia
Asha got food for Eldien and sat by her while she ate, not tasting a bite until the elf was finished.  She trusted the food, she just wanted to make sure the girl ate her fill after loosing so much blood.   "Have any of you ever had dealings with the underground people?  How do they live without sun and air?"   She addressed the group on whole, curious as to their response.
CWater
Stiira sits with her hands wrapped around her knees and stares at the fire.  "I don't know... We're so far from the sea too. What is there to eat underground?"  She looks at the half-eaten piece of meat in her hand.  "Do you think they hunt the birds? They're so big..." 
CWater
The party sits around the campfire, eating and resting, and the day turns into night with no sign of the dwarves. They are already starting to consider if they should move the boulder and head in by themselves, when they hear the sound of approaching footsteps from the north.

 
 Spoiler: Skill checks 
It's pitch dark, but the campfire gives some light. Spot and Listen checks if you want to make them. Anyone got Low-Light vision?

Stiira
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 

Eldien
Spot:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
 


Eldien stiffens and turns towards the sound, trying to see something in the darkness.  "Someone is coming",  she says,  "It... looks like one of the dwarves."  In a more quiet voice she adds,  "I think only one is approaching, but I'm sure I saw more movement farther away." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The party sits around the campfire, eating and resting, and the day turns into night with no sign of the dwarves. They are already starting to consider if they should move the boulder and head in by themselves, when they hear the sound of approaching footsteps from the north.

Eldien stiffens and turns towards the sound, trying to see something in the darkness.  "Someone is coming",  she says,  "It... looks like one of the dwarves."  In a more quiet voice she adds,  "I think only one is approaching, but I'm sure I saw more movement farther away."  
 

 
 Spoiler: Checks 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
 


Asha held her spear tightly looking out in the direction Eldien indicated.  She positioned her body to slightly block the elf, protecting her from danger.
Etherion
Aidan looks over in the direction indicated by Eldien.

 
 Spoiler: checks 
Listen:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
spot:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha fell into a wide stance, spear lowered. Though her eyes glowed faitly, they offered no aid in piercing the darkness of the passage.

 
 Spoiler 
No low light/dark vision here.

Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok slowly rises to stand, hands on hips, and faces the direction of the approaching dwarf, but glances all around while doing so.  Fang growls in that direction, but Kanok pats his head to calm him.

 
 Spoiler 
Fang has low-light vision and scent.

 Listen:   (1d20+11)[ 19 ] 
 Spot:   (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
 Fang Listen:   (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 Fang Spot:   (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 
Rathgar
Knowing that being at a campfire isn't exactly conducive to secrecy, Tuntematon figured that he might as well call out to the figure that he sees.   "Hail, traveler through the wilderness?  What strangeness brings you this way?" 
CWater
 "Could ask the same of you",  answers a voice from the darkness, and soon after a small man with a respectable dark brown beard comes to view,  " I  happen to live around here."  Even though he is shorter than most men the wanderers have met, his shoulders are broad and his arms are thick. Those that have had dealings with his kind before, immediately recognise him as a dwarf. He wears only a long(ish) loincloth that reaches down to cover his knees, and heavy-looking bracelets made of stone. The chest is mostly covered by his massive messy beard, but is otherwise bare. His skin looks a greyish and somehow odd, until he comes closer to the light, and they can see he's actually covered in a layer of dust. He seem to be unarmed.

The dwarf stops a about five feet away from the fire and eyes the party, looking at each of them in turn.  "I am Joahki the Speaker, and yes, it sounds better in Dwarven. First I have to say, that you are the strangest group of elves I've ever seen."  He stares at Kanok a little longer.  "...Or are you some kind of weird orc? A lot I can believe of the pointy-ears, but I'm not easily convinced that any of them could succeed in growing a beard. Or grow so tall either."  To Tuntematon he gives an even longer look, before saying,  "...And I really haven't got the faintest idea what you could be." 
 
 Spoiler: Asha and Aidan 
They hear more footsteps from somewhere farther away, out of the light shed by the campfire. It's impossible to say how many made them, at least two, but likely more.

Now it is quiet though, they must have stopped.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Could ask the same of you",  answers a voice from the darkness, and soon after a small man with a respectable dark brown beard comes to view,  " I  happen to live around here."  Even though he is shorter than most men the wanderers have met, his shoulders are broad and his arms are thick. Those that have had dealings with his kind before, immediately recognise him as a dwarf. He wears only a long(ish) loincloth that reaches down to cover his knees, and heavy-looking bracelets made of stone. The chest is mostly covered by his massive messy beard, but is otherwise bare. His skin looks a greyish and somehow odd, until he comes closer to the light, and they can see he's actually covered in a layer of dust. He seem to be unarmed.

The dwarf stops a about five feet away from the fire and eyes the party, looking at each of them in turn.  "I am Joahki the Speaker, and yes, it sounds better in Dwarven. First I have to say, that you are the strangest group of elves I've ever seen."  He stares at Kanok a little longer.  "...Or are you some kind of weird orc? A lot I can believe of the pointy-ears, but I'm not easily convinced that any of them could succeed in growing a beard. Or grow so tall either."  To Tuntematon he gives an even longer look, before saying,  "...And I really haven't got the faintest idea what you could be." 
 
 Spoiler: Asha and Aidan 
They hear more footsteps from somewhere farther away, out of the light shed by the campfire. It's impossible to say how many made them, at least two, but likely more.

Now it is quiet though, they must have stopped.
 
 
 

Asha stood, letting Naberius help her chose her words, her spear still in hand.  "I am Asha and we are not related to the tribes of the area.  Tell your companions who followed you to enter the light.  We were in search of your people in the hopes some of our questions could be answered." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha stood, letting Naberius help her chose her words, her spear still in hand.  "I am Asha and we are not related to the tribes of the area.  Tell your companions who followed you to enter the light.  We were in search of your people in the hopes some of our questions could be answered."  
 

Joahki turns to Asha and studies her expression for a moment before replying,  "They will stay in the shadows for now. I guess that is a little dishonorable, but sometimes you need to be careful. Your group caused quite a stir among the people, no one has come beating our front door in over a lifetime, and you look strange too. We don't know what to think of you." 
 "But you say you have questions to us. What are those? How we craft stone is our secret that we don't share." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok snorts,  "I am no orc, dwarf, and we care nothing for your secrets.  We have come seeking the elf up on Calm Wind,"  He points to the southernmost mountain,  "and the peak-dwelling prophets."   He then goes quiet, willing to let Asha do the talking.
Athedia
 "I understand, and assure you that your tribes secrets will remain so.You are a neutral party and know of the area. As my companion said we seek the prophets we have heard dwell on the mountains.  We are curious about the fifth peak, a certain wrongness emanates." 
MrE
 These dwarves had never met men before?  Taesha was surprised they could be so isolated, but perhaps it was the only way to protect themselves from the warring tribes on the mountains. She didn't bother to correct the others as to what  she  was, after all, the tribe didn't really know. A little bit more and a little bit less than human, that was her guess.
CWater
 "Heard of the prophets have you?" , Joahki crosses his arms,  "There are such here, that is true. But you need to know where to look and there's dangers on the way. And even if you do reach a prophet, they rarely give answers for free. Are you sure you really need to find them?" 

The dwarf shudders when Asha mentions the Fifth,  "Why do you want to know about that one? That mountain is cursed, stay away from it. It's better not even think about it, or the curse can take a hold of you too." 

Obviously wanting to change the subject, he continues,  "And there's a lot of crazy elves living around Calm Wind. That's why we don't go there." 
Athedia
 "Our tribes and minds have queries only they can answers.  We will pay what price we must.  And for that curse, the one that leaves you scared.  What manner of evil is locked beneath the mountain that someone who lives in an impossible realm would be afraid?"   During the conversation Asha had been examining the dwarf, trying to figure out how they breathed both dirt and air.
MrE
 "Some sacrifices are worth it, dwarf,"  Taesha adds, thinking about it. She would not welcome the curse of the fifth, but if it were a choice between that and the certain extinction of their peoples, she would choose the former.  "We entreat you to direct us to the prophets that you can locate." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Our tribes and minds have queries only they can answers.  We will pay what price we must.  And for that curse, the one that leaves you scared.  What manner of evil is locked beneath the mountain that someone who lives in an impossible realm would be afraid?"   During the conversation Asha had been examining the dwarf, trying to figure out how they breathed both dirt and air. 
 

Asha's words seem to puzzle Joahki,  "Don't get what you mean by 'impossible', weird elf. Life has it's hardships, but I doubt it's different anywhere else. Our biggest concern is your kind's and the orcs' constant fighting",  he snorts,  "Though I guess since you come from elsewhere it's not really your fault." 

The dwarf looks uncomfortable when Asha keeps asking about the fifth mountain,  "That place is cursed",  he repeats,  "I don't know why, and  I don't even want to. "  The last words are spoken more loudly.  "If something sleeps there, let it be. Stay away from it." 

 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "Some sacrifices are worth it, dwarf,"  Taesha adds, thinking about it. She would not welcome the curse of the fifth, but if it were a choice between that and the certain extinction of their peoples, she would choose the former.  "We entreat you to direct us to the prophets that you can locate."  
 

Joahki considers Taesha's request for a while, running his hand through his beard.  "...We know only of the one that dwells inside this mountain",  he finally says,  "The elves in the south should know about the one on Calm Wind, and the orcs up north almost worship their Rivermother. It gets really confusing sometimes, you never know if they're talking about the prophet or the mountain or the actual river." 
 "I wonder if letting you inside the mountain is wise.. I'm not sure if the elders would agree." 
 
 Spoiler 
He seems undecided whether to help you or not.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Asha's words seem to puzzle Joahki,  "Don't get what you mean by 'impossible', weird elf. Life has it's hardships, but I doubt it's different anywhere else. Our biggest concern is your kind's and the orcs' constant fighting",  he snorts,  "Though I guess since you come from elsewhere it's not really your fault." 

The dwarf looks uncomfortable when Asha keeps asking about the fifth mountain,  "That place is cursed",  he repeats,  "I don't know why, and  I don't even want to. "  The last words are spoken more loudly.  "If something sleeps there, let it be. Stay away from it." 

Joahki considers Taesha's request for a while, running his hand through his beard.  "...We know only of the one that dwells inside this mountain",  he finally says,  "The elves in the south should know about the one on Calm Wind, and the orcs up north almost worship their Rivermother. It gets really confusing sometimes, you never know if they're talking about the prophet or the mountain or the actual river." 
 "I wonder if letting you inside the mountain is wise.. I'm not sure if the elders would agree."  
 

 "Human.  Not elf.  Though my tribe welcomes all."   Asha couldn't help but correct him.  Nothing against the elves but she was proud of her heritage as it dated back to the original ancestors.   "We simply are worried that something has already woken up.  If we could speak to these prophets we may be able to get answers without having to search the area." 

Asha coughed and rubbed her neck as she then uttered her next question.   "Um, as for impossible.  You live underground.  I have never met someone who could breath the earth." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok puzzles for a moment,  "Are any prophets dwarves?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Human.  Not elf.  Though my tribe welcomes all."   Asha couldn't help but correct him. Nothing against the elves but she was proud of her heritage as it dated back to the original ancestors. 
 

 "Human...",  the dwarf frowns, then shrugs,  "If that's what you call yourselves."  He eyes the whole party again.  "...Are you all these 'humans' then?" 

  "We simply are worried that something has already woken up.  If we could speak to these prophets we may be able to get answers without having to search the area."  

 "Perhaps.. Hmm.. yes, that would be better, I think." 

 Asha coughed and rubbed her neck as she then uttered her next question.   "Um, as for impossible.  You live underground.  I have never met someone who could breath the earth."  

Joahki looks bemused at first, then slightly amused.  "We do not breath the earth, 'human'. We appreciate the air the gods have given us the same as those who live under the sky. There is air, even below. Though it is true that one should be careful that it's not exhausted." 
 "But you will see for yourself soon. If you wish to meet the prophet, you must come underground, to the tunnels."  He gestures towards the boulders,  "Guess we better open the front entrance then. I doubt you all would fit through the back door, even if I'd show you where it is, which I won't." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok puzzles for a moment,  "Are any prophets dwarves?"  
 

Joahki gives Kanok a strange look,  "No.. The prophets... are not mortal. Well, not like dwarves, elves or orcs anyway." 
 "So, help me with the door?" 
Rathgar
 "I am not a human myself, but rather one of the folk you might know of as centaurs.  We're really common, just not around here.  Also, it would be nice to speak to a fellow prophet.  I myself am a prophet of Anlin, Sovereign of the Strange.  In any case, I will help you with that entrance rock." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts and goes to help the dwarf move the rocks.  He is lost in thought over how strange the world is turning out to be, and how  big.   He does not answer the "are you human?" question; there are two or more in the group, and he does not quite look like them.
CWater
Together, they manage to move the heavy rock, revealing the cave's entrance. Once the boulder is entirely out of the way, Joahki leads the party into the darkness.

The structure doesn't seem entirely natural. While the walls are rough, the tunnel's height and width stay mostly the same. It is wide enough for two to walk comfortably side by side and only the tallest have to watch their heads. The ground is oddly enough covered with dirt and leaves.

A few times the dwarf directs the travellers to walk closely to the walls, even if there is no obvious reason why.

 
 Spoiler: Light? 
Have you got any source of light?
 
Athedia
Asha pulled one of her tribes gifts out from her pack.  Unwrapping the cloth from the head of the bundle a light jumped into view.  Noticing some surprised looks she explained.   "Only the best of our shamans make these, stealing the suns light." 
 
 Spoiler 
Everburning torch
 
CWater
Joahki raises an eyebrow at Asha's light, but doesn't say anything about it, just motions the party to follow him deeper into the mountain. The tunnel twists and turn and a few times smaller tunnels diverge from it, but the dwarf keeps to the main path, until they arrive at a junction where two larger tunnels meet. Then he stops and turns around.  "I'll have to ask the elders, before I can guide you further. Wait here, I'll be back soon."  And without another word, the Speaker disappears into the darkness of the left tunnel.

 
 Spoiler: Kanok, Asha, Tuntematon and Eldien 
As you wander through the tunnel, you hear the occasional sound of footsteps coming from behind you. It sounds like they're following you.

When you stop at the junction, it is entirely silent.
 
Athedia
Asha couldn't help but glance over her shoulder into the darkness as she heard the footsteps. She muttered to the others in her group.  "Guys... we have company.  I have a feeling if the Elders say no we will not be allowed to leave so easily." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok silently motions for Stiira and Eldien to move to the center of the group, handing his shield to anyone who wants it.  He trusts the other warriors to position themselves.  He then quietly moves to block the tunnel behind them, spear gripped in both hands, Fang at his side.
Athedia
Asha stayed by Eldien, supporting the elf.  But Fear was in her hand, ready to fight.
CWater
For several minutes it is ominously quiet, like in the proverbial grave, and being surrounded by masses of stone from all sides is unlikely to lift the mood of those used to live under the clear sky. Stiira shivers and inches towards Asha, until she stands between her and the wall.

 
 Spoiler 
When there are no trees around, one has to improvise.😉
 

 
 Spoiler: For Kanok 
Suddenly the barbarian hears the sound of footsteps again. But these are different from the previous in that they don't come from behind, but from the tunnel on the left (the same one Joahki went to). They are also much lighter and more hurried.

(I'm still using the same Listen check results.)
 
CWater
The silence is broken again by the sound of approaching footsteps. But these don't come from the tunnel where the party came in, but from the one on the left where their guide disappeared to. The hurried steps come closer fast, and soon a small figure emerges from the darkness. It is a boy, shorter than Stiira, though still sturdier than her. He has no beard so he must be young, but it is hard to tell his exact age. He's wearing a long tunic, but his face is as grey from the dust like Joahki's. But what is most noticeable is the stone amulet around his neck, for the emblem on it strongly reflects the light of Asha's torch. Looking closer, they can see that the symbol is that of a small hand holding an orb of light.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge(religion) might tell you more about it.
 


Panting, the dwarf boy leans to the wall and looks up to the group of strangers.  "Quick. You must go." 
Seharvepernfan
Of course it couldn't be simple.

Kanok frowns angrily, leaning back into the tunnel intersection to face the child,  "Where and why?"   He speaks quickly and gruffly, expecting a quick and to-the-point answer.  He realizes this could be a trick, but doubts it.
CWater
 
 Spoiler: For Tuntematon 
The symbol of a small hand holding an orb of light belongs to Mirva, one of the more obscure gods. She is a deity for the lonely and a guide to those who have lost their way. Also, while Iszyl is the resident 'grim reaper' of this setting, Mirva is the final guide for chidren, especially if they have died very young.

Mirva always appears in the form of a child, usually but not always, as a girl, with white hair and white robe and accompanied by glowing orbs of light that resemble will-o-wisps.

She is a child of Virnil, goddess of Luck and Destiny, who is Tieteir's daughter. The Mad Seer has proclaimed that Mirva is actually dead, though what this truly means is a bit of a mystery since she is still able to grant power to her clerics and favoured souls. Her clergy is peculiar in that all clerics of Mirva are children; when they reach adulthood, they must start to worship another deity if they wish to keep their powers. Typical choices are Virnil, Tieteir, Iszyl and Sheirin, but there are no restrictions.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Of course it couldn't be simple.

Kanok frowns angrily, leaning back into the tunnel intersection to face the child,  "Where and why?"   He speaks quickly and gruffly, expecting a quick and to-the-point answer.  He realizes this could be a trick, but doubts it. 
 

Staring at Kanok with unblinking eyes, the dwarf child points to the tunnel on their right.  "The elders are talking about you",  he says in a heavy but still understandable accent,  "They haven't decided yet, but you know the entrance to our home. They will find you a threat, and they will order the warriors to kill you." 
MrE
Taesha raises her spear ready for battle.  "We could find the locations of the prophets from others. We do not need these dwarves overly. We should not risk being caught in these tunnels. Boy do you know where we might find any of the elemental prophets? Or the elf sage?"  It was worth asking, since they would likely not be able to come back to these tunnels in the near future.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
 Taesha raises her spear ready for battle.  "We could find the locations of the prophets from others. We do not need these dwarves overly. We should not risk being caught in these tunnels. Boy do you know where we might find any of the elemental prophets? Or the elf sage?"  It was worth asking, since they would likely not be able to come back to these tunnels in the near future. 
 

The boy turns to Taesha and tilts his head a little.  "The prophets live on different mountains",  he says and points again to the tunnel on the right,  "You can find the earth prophet if you go that way, then turn left, walk straight until it smells damp and turn right there. When you come to a big cavern..",  now he looks a bit unsure,  "There are many tunnels there.. You need to choose the right one... it should decend sharply... After that the route is more difficult, since it's not in regular use, but the right path is marked. ...Some monsters can wander there too, but nothing  very  dangerous." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok admires bravery.   "We thank you, child.  Don't get killed for us.  Now let's go!"   Kanok drops the bones/claws/beak of the bird for the child to claim (or anyone else), then moves his spear to his right hand.  He bends down to pick up Eldien and throw her over his shoulder, then moves down the tunnel the child indicated.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira should feel free to ride Fang, since speed is now a priority.
 
Athedia
Asha nodded at Kanoks words and sprinted after him.   "I knew I shouldn't trust people who abandon the sun." 
Etherion
 But why invite us down here, just to kill us? Something doesn't seem right. 
Aidan shakes his head, then follows Kanok.
Rathgar
 "Thank you, speaker of Mirva.  As prophet of Anlin, you have my deepest respect, but we must now leave.  I am thankful, however, that I was able to experience such a strange place as this." 
MrE
 "I'm not feeling too thankful,"  Taesha muttered as you sprinted away with the others,  "but at least we got the location."  She followed the young dwarf's directions through the twisting tunnels.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  But why invite us down here, just to kill us? Something doesn't seem right. 
Aidan shakes his head, then follows Kanok. 
 

The child swifts his unblinking gaze to Aidan, there is something deeply unnerving about his stare.  "It is easier to kill you down here than outside",  he says quietly,  "You could run, and they don't like to go too far from the tunnels." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Thank you, speaker of Mirva.  As prophet of Anlin, you have my deepest respect, but we must now leave.  I am thankful, however, that I was able to experience such a strange place as this."  
 

 "I greet you, follower of the Weird One. But I warn you, the Stoneseekers don't like what is unusual and doesn't fit in",  the boy replies to Tuntematon, but stares at the ceiling while speaking the words.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, need sleep.. More in the morning.
 
CWater
The party runs to the tunnel, being careful not to hit their heads to the low ceiling. Soon, they can hear the earlier footsteps following them, now also running. It's still hard to say how many they are.

About two hundred feet into the tunnel, they come across a turn to the left. But at a first glance, it seems to be only a short dead end, perhaps 10 ft. deep.

 
 Spoiler 
Do you want to continue forward, or check it out?
 
Athedia
Asha pushed against the wall checking to see if it was real.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok steps into the dead-end, quickly scanning the walls, doubting that this even constitutes a "turn", but unwilling to pass it up without checking.  He slowly spins around so Eldien can look at whatever he has his back to.

 
 Spoiler 
 Spot:   (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha pushed against the wall checking to see if it was real. 
 

The wall feels solid.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok steps into the dead-end, quickly scanning the walls, doubting that this even constitutes a "turn", but unwilling to pass it up without checking.  He slowly spins around so Eldien can look at whatever he has his back to.

 
 Spoiler 
 Spot:   (1d4)[ 2 ] 
 
 
 

There is some scratches and small markings on one of the walls, but they look old and worn out. Kanok sees nothing else of noteworthy.

Judging by the sound of footsteps, their pursuers are getting closer and they hear a gruff shout in dwarven.

Three sling bullets fly at them.

 
 Spoiler 
Since I forgot to ask about your  marching  running order, I'll determine the targets randomly.
Asha and Kanok are in the dead-end, so they can't be hit.

1.Aidan
2.Tuntematon
3.Taesha
4.Stiira

Target:  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 2 ] 

Target:  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 4 ] 

Target:  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 4 ] 

Guess they went for the bigger folks.
 


Aidan and Taesha are struck by the flying stones. Tuntematon is almost hit too, but reflexively steps to the side and the stone flies past his head.
Rathgar
Tuntematon yelled the magic word, " "Hämärtää!" , and his image became blurry immediately.   "Everyone, keep going!  I'm going to try to distract them!" 

With that the centaur turned around and began to pray a prayer that would hopefully slow the dwarves down and buy the party time.

 
 Spoiler 
I am going to delay my action until the rest of the party runs, then I will cast Obscuring Mist to help us escape.  Don't worry about me, I'm one of the fastest in the party.
 
MrE
Taesha nodded to Tuntematon then continued to run, leading the others away from the oncoming dwarves.

 
 Spoiler 
Continue fleeing I guess, hopefully our little centaur won't have inadvertently sacrificed himself.
 
Seharvepernfan
His decision made for him, Kanok promptly continues running further down the tunnel, trying to stay near Asha with her light.
Etherion
Aidan follows Taesha and Kanok, hoping to avoid the worst of the assault.
CWater
The rest of the party run deeper to the tunnel, as Tuntematon stays behind and covers himself with obscuring mist. He gets a short glimpse of the dwarves pursuing them before his sight is blocked first by the fog, then total darkness.

 
 Spoiler 
Can't run in the darkness, does he have any light source?
 



The others hurry on their way deeper into the mountain. When they meet the first turn to the left, they head that way. After that, they come across a few turns to both left and right, but remembering the child's strange description 'head straight until it smells damp', they do not take any of them. And indeed after a while, the party members hear the faint sound of running water. They also see yet another smaller tunnel sprout from the wall, to the right.

As they approach, they can see a pillar of water a little further away. Water seems to fall down from the cavern ceiling next to the wall, and into a hole in the ground. The air is humid and slightly foggy, though not so much that they can't see the other turn to the right after this 'spring'.
Rathgar
  O.K., time to get out of here.  Anlin, give me light.    With that, Tuntematon said a brief pray, and then his holy symbols began to glow.  Using the light of the holy symbol, Tuntematon tried to fight his way out of the mist.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Light on my holy symbols, then moving away from the mist towards where everyone else is.
 
CWater
Standing by the spring the party can hear Tuntematon catching up with them, his hooves making a very distinct sound on the hard stone floor. Soon they can also see the light from his holy symbol approaching.

Tuntematon doesn't hear any footsteps that would indicate that the dwarves are still following, but it's a but hard to tell with his own steps echoing in the tunnel.
CWater
Tuntematon catches up with the others and they continue to the first tunnel on the right. Very soon after the turn the path turns into a hill and the ceiling no longer stays on a steady height, but lowers and rises randomly.

After what feels like an eternity of climbing the travellers see a faint light ahead.

 
 Spoiler: Skill check time 
Listen and Spot, please.

Stiira:
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 

Eldien:
Listen:  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
Spot:  (1d20)[ 18 ]  can't remember her modifiers so I'll roll without
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Tuntematon catches up with the others and they continue to the first tunnel on the right. Very soon after the turn the path turns into a hill and the ceiling no longer stays on a steady height, but lowers and rises randomly.

After what feels like an eternity of climbing the travellers see a faint light ahead.

 
 Spoiler: Skill check time 
Listen and Spot, please.

Stiira:
Listen:  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
Spot:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 

Eldien:
Listen: [roll2]
Spot: [roll3] can't remember her modifiers so I'll roll without
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Eldien:
Listen:  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
Spot:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 
 


Asha almost shouted in joy at the sight of light.  She wanted out of these caves where she was trapped.
CWater
As the party gets closer to the light, it becomes clear that they haven't yet found a way out of the caves, but are about to reach a larger cavern. The light is dim and bluish, though they can't tell what shedding it from where they stand.

 
 Spoiler: Position 
You are still inside the tunnel, about 10 ft. from the entrance to the bigger cavern.
 


However, they can see that there are at least five other paths out from it, possibly more, since they can't see the whole place from this angle. They also spot three dwarves that seem to be working on something on the opposite side.

 
 Spoiler: What next 
For example, would you all like to enter or would you rather send someone in first to scout ahead?
 
CWater
 "I-I'll go take a closer look..",  Stiira says,  "I'm small, so.. maybe they won't see me." 

Clutching her cloak tightly, the halfling sneaks ahead.

 
 Spoiler 
Rolling in OOC later.
 
MrE
Taesha nodded, following the little halfling to the entrance of the cave before letting the witch go on alone. She had thought for a moment that they had reached the exit, but the light had been a trick, and now she felt more demoralized than ever. Standing at the entrance, Taesha tried to take in as much of the cave as possible, and glanced towards the group of dwarves in the hope of understanding their purpose.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Listen  (1d20+7)[ 23 ] 
 
CWater
The cave is more or less round and the walls are a little less rough than in the tunnels through which the party has wandered 'till now. Still, the place looks also messy with a lot of stone rubble and stray boulders around. The bluish light comes from dimly glowing disks embedded high on the walls and ceiling.

The three dwarves, two males and one female, sit around a strangely formed rock that doesn't seem to lie at its natural resting place and are working on it with picks and paint. Taesha can't quite tell does the thing have some mundane or magical purpose or whether its simply a work of art. The dwarves don't seem to be armed, though their picks and hammers might also work as weapons if needed.

From the entrance she and Stiira can see that there are altogether eight passages leading to this cavern. One of them is obviously blocked by rubble, so that leaves six options for them. Stiira sneaks carefully closer to examine them more closely, trying to stay in the shadows and out of sight. However, she accidentally kicks one small stone and the resulting noise gets one of the dwarves to jerk his head up, looking for the source of the sound.

 
 Spoiler: Spot again 
Now that he's paying attention, the dwarf gets another Spot check.
 (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
Aand he just made it.  More in a minute. 
 


The little witch rushes to hide behind a boulder, but the dwarf is quick enough to notice the movement. He gets up, shouting something in Dwarven. Hiding begin the rock, Stiira does not answer, not that she understands or speaks the language anyway. The dwarf begins walking towards her hiding place, and speaks the same words again, with some uncertainty in his voice. The other two briefly look up from their work, but don't seem interested.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok walks into the room, his spear held loosely at his waist with his left hand, non-threateningly.  He holds his right hand up, open and facing the dwarves.   "Hold!  We seek the prophet!"  He speaks in the common tongue, then again in giant.
Etherion
Aidan pulls out his bow, and gets ready to fire at the dwarves if they attack.

 
 Spoiler: readied action 
Shoot one of the dwarves if they attack.
 
CWater
The dwarf who got up stops dead in his tracks and gawks at Kanok with wide eyes. The other two still sitting also turn around to face the party, looking equally shocked. The other male dwarf is about to get up, but the woman stops him by holding his hand and saying something in Dwarven. She keeps her eyes fixed on Aidan's readied bow.

It takes a moment for them to get over their initial surprise, but finally the one standing in the middle of the cavern gets his voice back. Stuttering at first, he asks,  [Dwarven]"W-w-who are you? What are you doing here?"[/Dwarven] 
 
 Spoiler: You can answer.. 
..Because I just checked your sheets and noticed that Tuntematon speaks Dwarven. So let's say he'll translate for you. Rathgar isn't around to confirm this right now, but it seems like a reasonable thing for our centaur to do.
 

 [Dwarven]"The... prophet?",[/Dwarven]  the dwarf eyes them suspiciously,  [Dwarven]"Why do you seek our seer?"[/Dwarven] 
Athedia
Asha stepped forward, holding Eldien up with one arm, the other holding her spear in its smallest form.   "We have all had prophecies fortelling a dark time ahead.  As much as my friend here is intimidating it is only because a child appeared to us telling us the dwarves were planning to kill us.  No offense, but we couldn't take the risk." 
CWater
 [Dwarven]"I...see...",[/Dwarven]  the dwarf seems unsure of how to continue. While he hesitates, the female dwarf stands up slowly and says,  [Dwarven]"Don't let us bother you then. Continue on your way."[/Dwarven] 

The three dwarves have their eyes on the party, but the latter can see Stiira sneaking around the cavern, peering into the tunnels that diverge from it. When she's gone through all of them, she returns to the others.  "I checked the other paths",  she whispers,  "From what I saw, two of them continue straight, one goes up and three go down. One of those might be a little steeper than the others, maybe.. I'm not sure." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  [Dwarven]"I...see...",[/Dwarven]  the dwarf seems unsure of how to continue. While he hesitates, the female dwarf stands up slowly and says,  [Dwarven]"Don't let us bother you then. Continue on your way."[/Dwarven] 

The three dwarves have their eyes on the party, but the latter can see Stiira sneaking around the cavern, peering into the tunnels that diverge from it. When she's gone through all of them, she returns to the others.  "I checked the other paths",  she whispers,  "From what I saw, two of them continue straight, one goes up and three go down. One of those might be a little steeper than the others, maybe.. I'm not sure."  
 

After waiting for a translation, Asha did a quick bow of her head, not daring to do anything more as she didn't want to drop Eldien.   "Thank you, but one question.  As you can see my clanmates leg was destroyed.  If you could direct us down the right tunnel it would be most appreciated, she is still gaining her strength." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 After waiting for a translation, Asha did a quick bow of her head, not daring to do anything more as she didn't want to drop Eldien.   "Thank you, but one question.  As you can see my clanmates leg was destroyed.  If you could direct us down the right tunnel it would be most appreciated, she is still gaining her strength."  
 

The female drawf frowns when noticing the elf's leg.  [Dwarven]"Indeed, she is unluckly.."[/Dwarven]  The dwarf next to her whispers something and they have a quick conversation in low voice.  [Dwarven]"But sure.."[/Dwarven],  she says outloud again,  [Dwarven]"We can direct you to the right path, you wanted to meet the prophet?"[/Dwarven]  She points at one of the tunnels. It is not the same one Stiira said matches their earlier directions.

The dwarf in the middle of the room throws a quick glance at her, then looks at the party again.

 
 Spoiler: For future reference 
Unlike perception or sneaking checks, I will not usually ask if you want to roll for Sense Motive. You choose yourself whenever you want to make that check. When you do, I'll roll an opposed Bluff (which might or might not be relevant depending on if the person is truly lying😉).

If Sense Motive has already been rolled earlier during the same conversation, please ask if a new check is required.

But, just this once, do you want to roll for Sense Motive?
 
Athedia
 "Are you sure?  The child told us another way.  We want no harm to any of you.  We only wish to prevent further disaster." 
 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
 (1d20)[ 18 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns, narrowing his eyes, then turns until he can see Asha,  "(Giant) Bring your light to the tunnels that go down; we will see which is sharpest."   He then slowly walks to the furthest left of the three that Stiira indicated, keeping an eye on the dwarves.  They were outnumbered; he did not suspect they would attack, but it doesn't hurt to be careful.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Are you sure?  The child told us another way.  We want no harm to any of you.  We only wish to prevent further disaster." 
 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
[roll0]
 
 
 

The dwarf in the middle of the room looks sharply at Asha.  [Dw]"What child?"[/Dw] 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok frowns, narrowing his eyes, then turns until he can see Asha,  "(Giant) Bring your light to the tunnels that go down; we will see which is sharpest."   He then slowly walks to the furthest left of the three that Stiira indicated, keeping an eye on the dwarves.  They were outnumbered; he did not suspect they would attack, but it doesn't hurt to be careful. 
 

Examining the tunnels confirms to Kanok what Stiira told earlier. Three of them go down and one does seem slightly sharper than the other two. The female dwarf says nothing more and they get a feeling that she was probably trying to give them false directions.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving forward? Or do you want to do or say anything else?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts and takes up a lead position down the steepest tunnel.   "Let's go." 
CWater
The party leaves the intersection and the dwarves behind and continue down the path. Their choice seems right, since after a while it becomes gradually even more steep, until they have to place their steps very carefully, so they won't slip and tumble down. After a time that feels like hours, the path finally becomes more stable again. Though they have no means to measure time, they estimate that it is at least midnight already outside.

The next part of the tunnel is significantly smaller than the previous one, and while they are able to walk mostly upright, everyone taller than five feet are forced to crouch and constantly watch their heads. They are heading deep inside the mountain, fortunately Asha's torch gives them light to see, and perhaps a little hope too in the otherwise overwhelming darkness.

Nothing lasts forever though, not even this claustrophobic tunnel, and the party members walk out of it to a cavern much larger than the previous one. The ceiling here is so high that the tallest of them could be twice as tall and still might not reach it. They can't tell how wide it is, large enough that their light can't reach both walls at the same time, and the place is filled with stalagmites, stalactites and columns of different sizes. In the distance, they can hear the faint sound of water dripping.

For a moment the dreamers are unsure of where they should go next, but then they notice the signs that have been carved into some of the stalagmites. A circle with five lines crossing it. The marked structures form a path for the party to follow across the cave.

 
 Spoiler 
I don't even want to know how many grammar errors the above contains. Can't seem to be able to think straight tonight.. -_-

Spot and Listen checks again, please.
 
CWater
The party has passed a dozen marked columns or stalagmites (the next can always be spotted when they reach the previous), when Kanok spots something suspicious on the ceiling ahead. At first it looks like a collection of small stalactites, but on a second glance their shape seems a little off.

 
 Spoiler 
They hang right between where you stand and the next marked column 40 ft. away. You can circle around them (there's plenty of space), but you might risk losing sight of the column. Everburning torch sheds dim light only for that 40 ft. Summoning more light is of course also an option, if you can do that. Though...

So , what would you like to do?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok silently stops the group, pointing out the ...things hanging from the ceiling.  Being completely unfamiliar with the subterranean world, the hunter decides not to risk a fight he doesn't know they can win.  He motions to go around potential danger in a curving line, and begins to do so, spear clutched in both hands.
Athedia
Asha shook her head, pointing at the pillar.  There could be more things lurking in the dark, and getting lost in here would mean certain death.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
There was no final consensus on how to proceed, but so we don't get stuck here for longer, I'll move you along. It seems reasonable to me that you could move in a circle so you don't lose the sight of the pillar for too long.
 


The party circle around the things hanging from the ceiling, keeping their eyes open for anything that could be a threat. At one point natural formation forces them to walk a little further away from the original path and for a moment they lose the sight of the column. However, they are able to locate it again and return to the path with no interrruptions.

One marked pillar follows another, until finally they see a symbol that is carved to the wall. Figuring out directions in this environment is nigh impossible, but it can be assumed that they are now somewhere on the other side of the cave from where they came in. When they get closer, they notice an area of strange blackness right next to the last symbol. Even brought close, Asha's torch does nothing to dispel this darkness. It starts from the level where they stand and stretches higher than their light can reach. It extends about 50 ft. to the right and it's limit is easy to miss, for what lies next to it is a deep gorge. With their light, no one in the party can see either the bottom or the other side (if there is one). But a closer examination reveals that there is solid ground in the darkness right next to the wall with the markings.

 
 Spoiler 
Ugh, are you able to picture it from this description? I can't draw a proper map right now, but it's something like this:

                ?                gorge
-----------DDDDDDDD............----------
           Party

---- wall
DDD darkness
..... cliff edge
 

 
 Spoiler: More helpful map? 
Light grey = the cave where you stand
Dark grey = wall
Normal black = deep ravine
Black without edges = magical darkness
P = path (testing for example with a spear you can determine that there is solid ground in these squares, to see if it continues further, you'll have to step into the darkness)
violet blob = the last guiding symbol on the wall
 
 
Athedia
Asha followed as they took they long path, relieved when she saw the marker appear again.  When they reached the darkened area she lengthed fear as long as she could make it and pulled out her rope.   "I can check ahead, but everyone should tie onto this.  Just... ignore the smell."   She tied the slimy gut-rope around her waist before handing it to the next person.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok nods, stowing his spear.  He takes the rope, ties his end around the nearest jutting rock, then grips it tightly in both hands.
CWater
Carefully, Asha steps into the blackness. The experience is unsettling, for there is not even the smallest change in colour around her. It is as if she has become totally blind. Cautiously studying the path ahead she moves forward. For now, the trail seems to continue right next to the cave wall, and she can steady herself against it.

 
 Spoiler 
A Listen check from Asha, please.
 
Athedia
Asha took deep breaths to stay calm in the dark.  She could hear her heart beating, but it was unsettling not to see her hands grasping the spear in front of her. 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
Suddenly Asha hears flapping sounds from somewhere above her.

 
 Spoiler: Initiative 
Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
?:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Crit 
Crit confirm:  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
Crit damage:  (1d4+4)[ 7 ] 
 


First something smacks Asha hard in the chest and she's thrown against the wall. When she's still dizzy from the hit, something that feels a bit like large leathery canvas tries to wrap itself around her.

 
 Spoiler: Grapple 
Make an opposed grapple check. I'll roll for this thing in OOC.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Grapple Check 
Opposed Grapple Check:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 


Asha let out a loud scream as she was slammed into the wall.  She couldn't see what was attacking her, but it seemed intent on having her dead.
CWater
Asha is able to squirm away from the thing attacking her.

The other's can hear her scream from the darkness. Obviously it does not stop sound the same as light.

 
 Spoiler 
Party's turn.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok, feeling a tug on the rope and hearing the girl scream, begins furiously hauling in the rope with all his considerable strength.

 
 Spoiler: MUSCLE CHECK 
 Strength:   (1d20+4)[ 16 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan joins Kanok in pulling on the rope.

 
 Spoiler: strength check 
 (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Since MrE is on holiday atm, I'll go for Taesha. (And Tuntematon too if it is needed, since Rathgar is also away.)
 


Taesha also grabs a hold of the rope and joins the effort to pull Asha out of the darkness.

 
 Spoiler: Str check 
 (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 


Together, they are strong enough to drag the binder back to them. She has a few scrapes from being dragged on the rocky ground, but they are minor compared to the pain in the chest from the hit she suffered.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha is  prone, one square out of the magical darkness.
 
CWater
Tuntematon prays to Alnin to heal some of Asha's wounds.

The group waits, prepared for battle, but nothing follows her from the darkness.

 
 Spoiler 
Since I think Rathgar is still away too, I went for him too. Asha heals 12 points of damage from Lesser Vigor. Tuntematon has one 1st level spell left now, if I'm not mistaken.
 
Athedia
 "I am NOT going in there again."   Asha kept brushing at herself, not liking the feeling of things pressing on her.

 
 Spoiler 
Put in her height, contrary to the rest of my characters Asha is short.  Surprise right, especially giving our conversation in the other thread Cwater.  But I figure people were shorter in early times so this makes more sense.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I am NOT going in there again."   Asha kept brushing at herself, not liking the feeling of things pressing on her.   
 

 "Wh-what's in there?"  Stiira asks, looking worried.


  
 Spoiler 
Put in her height, contrary to the rest of my characters Asha is short.  Surprise right, especially giving our conversation in the other thread Cwater.  But I figure people were shorter in early times so this makes more sense.
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Makes sense.🙂 I notice that Taesha is also very short.

(Not that fantasy worlds necessarily have to.😉 Make sense, I mean.)
 
Athedia
 "Some...thing grabbed me.  I would say a bag or cloak but it felt alive.  I don't know how it knew I was there, I couldn't see a bloody thing."   Asha shuddered at the memory and brushed at her arms again.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns, then intones a simple spell, weaving his hand through a few quick motions.  There is no visible effect.  Arming himself, the burly man leads his wolfhound into the darkness.  "Come, Fang." 
 
 Spoiler 

Kanok borrows a dagger or some other light weapon from someone in the party, then equips his shield (I thought it would be best to skip such a simple back-and-forth conversation).  He casts Guidance on himself, then equips the light weapon.  If there is no such weapon, he just carries his spear in both hands.

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
If Fang obeys, he can pinpoint any creature within 5ft by scent.  Kanok makes sure that Fang is never more than 5ft from him.

If Stiira feels inclined to cast bull's str on him, he'd really appreciate it.  If anybody else can help out in some way, then hey, that'd be cool too.
 
CWater
Aidan lends his handaxe to Kanok, and Stiira casts a spell to make him stronger. Then the warrior and his companion step into the unnatural darkness to seek what attacked Asha.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll update the map as soon as I can. In the meantime, Listen checks from Kanok and Fang.
 
CWater
His eyes may be as well as blind, but Kanok concentrates on listening to any sound that could reveal his enemy's location to him. And he doesn't have to wait very long, before he can hear the same flapping noise as Asha did before. Fang can also smell something alive approaching from above. And from the front.

 
 Spoiler: Initiative 
Kanok:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
?:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 

Oh, so close.. Fang can react if you want to direct him to do something, as handling the animal companion is a free action.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Normal black = deep ravine
Black without edges = magical darkness
Light grey = the cave where you stand
Dark grey = wall
Darkest grey = path that you know of in the magical darkness
violet blob = the last guiding symbol on the wall
 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ] 

If hits, grapple check:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 

Kanok's AC is 16 atm, right? (-2 from being blind and no Dex bonus)
 


Something slams Kanok hard on the shoulder. Right after he can feel something canvas-like lunge at him from above, trying to wrap itself around him.

 
 Spoiler 
Make an opposed grapple check. But please wait for me to respond to it before you take an actual turn.
 
CWater
Kanok is able to evade whatever is trying to grab a hold of him. But right after he has dodged the first attack, something tries to hit him again, this time from the darkness in front of him.

 
 Spoiler: Another Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ] 

If it hits, make another grapple check against this:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
...Giving two same numbers out of three in twice in a row? RNG is weird.

Whatever the result, it's your turn.
 
Seharvepernfan
Reeling from the surprisingly powerful blows, Kanok tries to maneuver his shield into place and desperately leans his head back and swings the small axe down at the creature wrapping itself around him.  Having spent himself in the fight with the massive terrestrial avians, he cannot muster his usual burst of strength, but the spell laid on him by his tiny magical friend is an even match for it.

Just as Kanok is sending his borrowed axe against the creature's leathery hide, Fang is already mid-lunge with jaws agape at the first monster, snarling in bestial fury.

 "RAAAAGGGHHH!!!!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Kanok attacks the creature grappling him.
Using  Stone Bones  maneuver with this attack
 Concealment:   (1d10)[ 5 ] , 0-4 misses
 Handaxe:   (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+6)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Handaxe:   (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+12)[ 19 ] 
if the attack is successful, Kanok has DR 5/adamantine for one round

Fang bites the creature that first attacked Kanok, moving towards it using scent if he is not already within 5ft.
 Concealment:   (1d10)[ 7 ] , 0-4 misses
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Hearing the sounds of struggle coming from the darkness, Stiira glances at the others with a worried expression.  "I...have another spell prepared to make someone stronger.  S-should we do something.."  
Athedia
 "You couldn't have mentioned this before I set out into the darkness?  If you want to find him in there be my guest." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "You couldn't have mentioned this before I set out into the darkness?  If you want to find him in there be my guest."  
 

  "I-I'm sorry..."   she backs away a few feet.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry! I forgot about it too. Though I prefer you blame Stiira for it.
 


The creature grappling with Kanok wraps an unknown appendage around his neck and tries to choke him.

 
 Spoiler: Constrict 
Automatic damage when grappling, or so I understand. Forgot about this last round, good for you.

Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 
 


The other monster in the darkness lunges at Fang, first trying to hit him, then wrap the dog too into a leathery cocoon.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ] 

If successful, grapple check:  (1d20)[ 5 ] 
If successful, constrict:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 

How much HP does Fang have btw?
 


But even in the dark, the trained dog is nimble enough to avoid the attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Party's turn.
 
Seharvepernfan
Unable to inhale, his head covered and his ribs broken, Kanok rethinks his plan to just hack the creature to death in the darkness.  Fang snarls and lunges again at the creature he can't see; if he can just find it, he can tear it to pieces.   Kanok then begins using his superior bulk to drag the damned thing out into the light.
A muffled call can be heard,  "Fang, come!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Fang continues his attack.
 Concealment:   (1d10)[ 10 ] , 1-5 misses
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 Damage: 1d6+3[/roll]
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 18 ] 
 Damage: 1d6+3[/roll]

Kanok then makes a grapple check to move with the creature attached to him, at half speed due to blindness.
He activates  Guidance  for a +1 on his roll.
 Grapple:   (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
If successful, he moves through Fang's square and back into the light.

He then calls to Fang to follow him out of the darkness.
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 

Can we say that Fang is wearing his barding?  If so, his AC rises to 18.
 
CWater
Kanok staggers out of the darkness with the creature wrapped around his head and shoulders.

 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 


Fang follows right behind him.
Rathgar
 "Ah, it's a...it's a...darkmantle!  I'll help your injuries against this thing!"   With that, Tuntematon pulled out his magic antler and attempted to use it's mystical properties to heal Kanok's significant wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Draw Wand of Cure Light Wounds while moving next to Kanok
Standard Action: Cast Cure Light Wounds on Kanok

Rolls:
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon has heard tales of these strange things, named Darkmantles by a sage who thought they resembled clothing. Not very strong, they hunt by surprising their victims with the cover of darkness and strangling them before they can fight back.

Stiira gawks at the now revealed monster.  "It's... like someone combined a squid with a bat.." 
But whatever it is, they need to finish it quick. The witch whispers the same arcane words as a moment before and casts the spell that increases one's strength on Aidan too.

 
 Spoiler 
Bull's Strength. Since I assume you don't want to shoot into melee when they're grappling.

Aidan, Asha and Taesha are up.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan swings his remaining axe at the creature strangling Kanok.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan's swing cuts a deep wound to the darkmantles large head. Following the ranger's attack, Taesha slashes at it with her claws.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack: (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Asha joins the fight, attacking the creature with Fear.

 
 Spoiler 
Not entirely sure about the correct numbers, sorry.
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 
 

But her spear can't quite pierce the darkmantle's tough skin.
CWater
Even wounded, the darkmantle is unwilling to let go of it's prey, and it attempts to drag Kanok back into the darkness, trying to squeeze the life out of him at the same time.

 
 Spoiler 
Constrict damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ] 
Grapple check to move:  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
 

Using all its strength, it drags the warrior back into the blackness. But judging by the sounds, they don't get very far.

Just a moment later another creatures lunges forward from the dark, and tries to grab Fang with its tentacles.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ] 

If successful, grapple check:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
 


But the dog manages to duck and evade them. The darkmantle squints its several eyes, seeming a bit confused about being out of the securing darkness.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
D2 is in the square  above  Fang.
Kanok and D1 are back in the darkness, though probably not very far away.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok roars and tries to reverse the damn thing's momentum, pulling hard back in the direction of the light, ignoring his contorted flesh and cracking bones.

Meanwhile, Fang tears into the beast assaulting him, laying eyes upon it for the first time.

 
 Spoiler 

 Grapple:   (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
Technically, Fang gets to trip if he hits, but I don't know how you'd rule that with a levitating creature.
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
 
CWater
Not planning on becoming a meal for the annoying creature, Kanok pulls them back out of the darkness.

Fang jumps up and gets to sinks his teeth into the other darkmantles unprotected flesh ripping it open. Dark blood flows to the cave floor and the creature falls down, its many eyes staring in random directions.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
D2 is down. Kanok and D1 are back.

 
 
Etherion
As Kanok drags the creature out of the darkness, Aidan swings at it with his axe.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
With a precise swing, Aidan chops half a head off the creature. The rest of it goes limp on Kanok's shoulders.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok sighs in relief, handing the axe back to Aidan, then pulls the half-decapitated creature off his shoulders to let it slump on the ground.  He nods solemnly to Aidan, then the rest of the group.  He puts his shield away, retrieving his spear and bone wand.  He uses the wand several times, then stows it again.

 
 Spoiler 

 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 
I'll use it until I get to 32 hp or more.
 
CWater
After a brief discussion about what to do next, Stiira agrees to tread into the dark in turn. With the rope tied around her waist and looking slightly scared, she disappears into the blackness. She is gone for quite some time, but the troll gut rope keeps stretching longer, so they know she is still moving and they hear no alarming sounds. Finally, they notice the rope starting to shrink again and after a while the witch steps back out.

 "T-there is a path all the way through the darkness",  she says,  "It follows the wall for bit, but diverges from it then. It's really narrow at one point, but I could crawl over. This darkness ends right after it. If we move slowly and have the rope, we should all be able to cross,  I think..  
Seharvepernfan
 "Then let's go.  You first."   He indicates Stiira, unwrapping the other end of the rope from the rock.  He goes around tying everyone to the rope in their preferred order, though he goes second, following Stiira.  He does not tie Fang; the dog will merely stay close.
Rathgar
 "I don't know, this seems really tricky...at least for one with hooves such as myself..." 
Seharvepernfan
In a rare bit of mirth, Kanok smirks,  "We should make you some boots."   It was a serious suggestion, though; leather "boots" would make less noise and gain more traction on stone.   "We will be slow, and I will not let you fall." 
CWater
Slowly, the party members make their way through the darkness. First they have support from the wall, but as Stiira told, soon there is just emptiness on both sides. When they reach the narrow part of the path, their pace slows down even more. They have to search for the ground on every step and hold their balance while doing so. Sometimes one of them can't stay up or takes a misstep, but tied to the rope, the others are able to steady them. Tuntematon can be happy that his people are smaller than some of their cousins, he's not sure if one of them could have made it through.

But, one by one the wanderers manage to cross, and without a warning step out of the darkness. The light on the other side is dim, but after such a long time without none it blinds them momentarily. When their eyes have adjusted again, they can see that the light comes from an amber-colored stone embedded high into the wall ahead. Below it lies a short tunnel that seems to lead into a bigger chamber.
CWater
In the end of the tunnel lies a round chamber. Unlike at the entrance there is no light inside, but their torch burns bright enough to lighten the whole place. The walls are covered with paintings that depict the shapes of different humanoids, animals and other strange creatures that dwell in these lands. They can see two other tunnels that lead in, but otherwise the cave seems empty.

But soon after the last of them has stepped in the floor starts to tremble, or perhaps it is the whole cavern, and the loud noise of rock breaking and cracking fills their ears. The wall on one side starts to twist, until it forms a large vortex. And from the middle of this whirl, comes through of what could resemble the upper half of a large male humanoid, but made of crude uneven rock. His features are unpolished, and he has two faintly glowing stones for eyes, seemingly identical to the one embedded to the wall outside.

The stone-man stays still, hanging from the wall and staring at the party for a moment, then opens his mouth.  "Strange..." , is the only word he speaks.

 
 Spoiler 
Not to make too big question about how you entered, I'll say you went in as a group. Though who wants to open their mouth first is of course an equally valid question I guess😉
 
Athedia
Asha backed up quickly.  Stones and rock were dead, unless, her eyes widened.   Could this be the world of the dead?  And the dwarves live here?  
Seharvepernfan
Kanok didn't know what to expect, but figured it would be strange.  He was right.  Looking sideways at the living rock creature, Kanok risks a comment,  "...do you know why we're here?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok didn't know what to expect, but figured it would be strange.  He was right.  Looking sideways at the living rock creature, Kanok risks a comment,  "...do you know why we're here?"  
 

The being on the wall gives Kanok a long look.  "...An unusual question to ask",  he finally says, his voice echoing in the chamber more than would be natural,  "I will grant you the answer, for it is both yes and no." 
CWater
 "I say 'strange', for it has been long since anyone who is not a dwarf has stood there",  the rock creature continues.  "Over an elven lifetime since one of their kind last ventured down here",  he says glancing at Eldien,  "And several times longer, since I last...",  he glances at Aidan and Asha (who has backed to the other side of the cavern),  "...saw a human."  He's eyes linger on Taesha slightly longer, before moving on to Stiira.  "Or one of the little folk."  Then his gaze shifts to Kanok, and he stares at the warrior from the north for quite some time, before speaking again.  "Yes.. I do remember one like you coming here. But that was farther in the past than what you can comprehend, even before the dwarves settled here, before these mountains had ever seen an elf." 
 "But with the old, comes something new",  he looks at Tuntematon,  "You are the first of your kind for me to see with the three eyes I have in here."  He says this with a tone that suggest that this is supposed to be somekind of honour.

 "But whatever the species, they all come here to ask questions. You have been shown a warning, and there is no prophecy of impending doom that I do not know of." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok has no real conception of the time-spans involved in the rockman's statement, so he lets those thoughts pass.   "Can you tell of what are dreams warned of?" 
Rathgar
 "And I have likewise never seen a large man made of rock, so it seems that Anlin blesses both of us tonight.  Or today.  I can't tell, it's too dark in here." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "And I have likewise never seen a large man made of rock, so it seems that Anlin blesses both of us tonight.  Or today.  I can't tell, it's too dark in here."  
 

 "The movements of one star are insignificant to me. But I know the name of your god, the Strange One."  The prophet pauses and is about to say more, but then just shakes his head and changes the subject.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok has no real conception of the time-spans involved in the rockman's statement, so he lets those thoughts pass.   "Can you tell of what are dreams warned of?"  
 

 I can tell many things. But I do not share my knowledge without a favour in return.  The next words he directs to the group at large.  "Each of you have right to one question and one answer. But after gaining them, you must complete a task for me." 
MrE
The darkness was beginning to grate on her, and it was with a fierce temper that Taesha finally made it into the rock-man's cave. Yet her anger vanished in the face of wonder and a sense of success:  this must be the earth prophet!  The being was every bit as cryptic as she had suspected he would be: they had sought the aid of prophets too much on this journey already, and she worried that none would prove helpful in clearing up their mission. But it was worth a try.

With a sense of doom hanging over her, for the threat of the unspoken task weighed on her, Taesha stepped forwards.  "I accept your bargain. What exactly is the doom that comes for this earth, that we were warned of in our dreams?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
 With a sense of doom hanging over her, for the threat of the unspoken task weighed on her, Taesha stepped forwards.  "I accept your bargain. What exactly is the doom that comes for this earth, that we were warned of in our dreams?"  
 

 "I have heard your question, soulshaper",  the prophet says and raises to  stand  hang more straight. His eyes start to glow brighter, until they are blinding to look at. The cavern starts to shake again and the following words echo in it like falling stones.
 "This land, has truly fallen out of Fortune's favour. It is not one, but many, that wish to mold it into a new shape."

"What is beyond death gathers its strength, seeking to devour the heart of all life."

"And among the living, are the sparks of a great fire starting to form, ready to tear apart everything in their path. Your own blood will feed these flames, soulshaper."

"There is also a storm brewing far away in the west. I cannot see more, it is not my element, but it will cross the wide waters to reach these shores, this I know."

"And if this were not enough, the threads that make the barrier between the worlds are being weakened, and those that were forsaken are eager to return."

"Truly, this land is without Fortune's favour." 

The prophets eyes return to normal and and the ground stops trembling.  "This is my answer." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok steps forward, face hard, and directs his voice at the prophet,  "Many days ago, we shared words with an elderly seer, who had summoned each of us to her.  She spoke of a seal in the fifth mountain; does this seal share blood with the dangers you spoke of?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok steps forward, face hard, and directs his voice at the prophet,  "Many days ago, we shared words with an elderly seer, who had summoned each of us to her.  She spoke of a seal in the fifth mountain; does this seal share blood with the dangers you spoke of?"  
 

  "I have heard your question, warrior from the north",  the prophet replies. This time his eyes don't change nor does the cave try to mimic an earthquake when he continues.
 "Yes. Inside the feared mountain is the knot that ties all threads of existence together. If it is untied, the curtain between what is and is not will fall."

"This is my answer." 
Etherion
Aidan steps forward to ask a question.

 What can we do to stop the dangers we have been warned of? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan steps forward to ask a question.

 What can we do to stop the dangers we have been warned of?  
 

  "I have heard your question, silent hunter."  The prophet's eyes start to glow bright and the cavern trembles again. Debris and a few small rocks fall down from the ceiling.

 "Understand."

"Stop the unholy advance before blood is spilt under the maple tree."

"To prevent a fire, put down the sparks, or remove the wood."

"The fangs of the sunwyrm will calm down the storm."

"To find what cuts the threads, seek their starting point and listen to the bound but still free."

"Understand the reasons and it will stop." 
After the last words, the cavern returns to normal.

 "This is my answer",  the prophet says, repeating his mantra.
CWater
Stiira collects her courage and steps forward.  "W-which of these threats should we tr- stop first?"  she asks the prophet.

 "I have heard your question, seawitch."

"None will keep the realm waiting for them, but the tree of life will be the first to die."

"This is my answer",   the prophet responds, setting the ground trembling again.


When the floor has become steady again, Eldien limps towards Asha.

 
 Spoiler 
Since Athedia has not said otherwise, I'm going to assume she is still pressed against the opposite wall.
 

 "Asha? Are you alright?",  the elf asks quietly when she gets to the binder,  "Does the prophet frighten you?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 When the floor has become steady again, Eldien limps towards Asha.

 "Asha? Are you alright?",  the elf asks quietly when she gets to the binder,  "Does the prophet frighten you?"  
 

Asha nodded quickly.  This realm was unnatural and she felt trapped down here.  Even Stiira was able to confront the stone creature.  She nervously held out a hand, grasping Eldien's hand and squeezing it.  Her tribe was here, and where her tribe was she was protected.  She stepped forward slowly, still holding onto Eldien for support.   "Where... where is the tree of life? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha nodded quickly.  This realm was unnatural and she felt trapped down here.  Even Stiira was able to confront the stone creature.  She nervously held out a hand, grasping Eldien's hand and squeezing it.  Her tribe was here, and where her tribe was she was protected.  She stepped forward slowly, still holding onto Eldien for support.   "Where... where is the tree of life?  
 

  "I have heard your question, binder of spirits",  the prophet answers in his booming voice and gives Asha a long look. But the ground does not start to shake when he continues.

 "The tree is with the druids of the Circle, their elders live between its roots."

"This is my answer."  


Eldien holds Asha's hand.  "He is not so different than the air prophet my p- my  old  tribe seeks guidance from, I think",  she whispers, trying to comfort her. Turning to the seer currently in their presence, she says,  "The dwarves don't seem to like us. How can we safely return to the surface?" 

The stoneman shifts his gaze to her.  "I have heard your question, broken elf."

"That path",  he gestures at one of the other tunnels than lead out of the chamber,  "also leads to the light. Predators walk it sometimes, but I can tell you when is the moment for you to leave."

"This is my answer." 
 
 Spoiler 
We'll do Tuntematon's question retroactively when Rathgar is able to post, since I know he doesn't have much time.
 


The prophet eyes all the visitors in turn.  "Now, you are in my dept and to be rid of it, must do something for me. Know that if you do not, the next thing I will ask from the dwarves when they come to seek advice from me, will be to bring me your  heads ."  The ground trembles again slightly during his last statement.
MrE
 "Speaker of the earth, we have heard your answers, and vowed to undertake your task. We will not break our word. What is it you ask of us?"  Taesha did not appreciate the insinuation, but felt duty bound to reiterate her commitment.
Athedia
Asha blanched at his knowledge that she bound the returned spirits to her soul.
Rathgar
The centaur bowed to the stone prophet.   "I thank you very much for revealing to us that which had hithertofore been hidden from us.  I also have a question for you.  However, as a prophet of but one of the gods, I feel I must ask this question, since you seem to know a good bit about them.  What, if anything, do any of the gods play in this, and which ones are pushing it all?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 The centaur bowed to the stone prophet.   "I thank you very much for revealing to us that which had hithertofore been hidden from us.  I also have a question for you.  However, as a prophet of but one of the gods, I feel I must ask this question, since you seem to know a good bit about them.  What, if anything, do any of the gods play in this, and which ones are pushing it all?"  
 

  "I have heard your question, speaker of the Strange One",  the earth prophet replies. His eyes begin to glow brightly again and the cave shakes worse than ever, setting small rocks to fall from the ceiling.

 "Many of the deities show interest whenever a world is changing."

"The mad god who fears death and hates life would see everything trapped in-between."

"The bloodthirsty warrior wants the realm to bathe in blood to his glory."

"The goddess of the dark side of the sun would dry the land to waste, more to her liking."

"The unspoken, the unmaker of all that is wishes to push everything to nothingness, though none can say for sure for his mind is in chaos."

"And lady luck has turned her back on these lands, to leave them devoid of hope."

"This is my answer." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge(religion) could identify some of them by name.

To be continued with his reply to Taesha.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by MrE 
  "Speaker of the earth, we have heard your answers, and vowed to undertake your task. We will not break our word. What is it you ask of us?"  Taesha did not appreciate the insinuation, but felt duty bound to reiterate her commitment. 
 

A small whirl of sand and rock surrounds the prophets left hand and when it disperses, he is holding an almost round stone filled with markings and small holes. He extends his hand towards Taesha and gestures her to take it.  "Carry this stone to the mountain in the west and give it to the fire spirit that resides within. The road is dangerous, but you have a chance of survival." 

The prophet straightens himself again and is quiet for a moment, thinking.  "I... care little what happens to the living realm above. People and tribes are born and perish and it makes no difference to me. But... some of the things I've seen..."  He waves his right hand and the rock wall next to him shifts to reveal a small alcove.  "I do not interfere. But I have no reason to wish for you to fail. These things have been formed deep inside the mountain, maybe they can improve your slim chances to prevent this disaster." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh look, it's minor treasure time. 😉

Ok, you can  each  choose  three  of the following items:
 
 Spoiler 

Blight Stone
Daylight Pellets(6)
Dust of Dispersion
Dust of Dryness
Dust of Illusion
Dust of Tracelessness
Essentia Jewel
Glitter Stone
 

 or 
you can take an Elemental Gem (Earth) and  one  item from the list above. Your choices are not restricted by what others pick, the prophet has enough of them for this not be a concern. Any questions?

(I'd post direct links to SRD or D&amp;D Tools for the items, but it's really hard to do from the phone, sorry.)

I'll try to post the Knowledge check results when I come back from dinner, I don't quite trust my phone not to lose long posts..
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: I'm the DM, I have the right to triple post ;) 

 
 Spoiler: For Tuntematon 

The mad god that hates life is surely Ihjur, god of Fear and Undead. In fear of the uncertainty of what comes after natural death he would rather everyone get a 'second life' as undead, never to truly die. He wars with all deities that represent nature and growth, as well as Iszyl, goddess of death and autumn, who considers death as a part of the natural cycle of the world and to whom the undead are the worst abominations. Ihjur's symbol is a skull with red eyes, sharp fangs and a twisted grin.

'Bloodthirsty warrior' is a second name for Theare, god of war and destruction. While blatantly evil, he is still quite widely worshipped, because no one wants to be in his disfavour when it is time to wage war. Theare's symbol is a weapon (any will do) dripped in blood.

'The goddess of the dark side of the sun' probably refers to Shalun, merciless goddess of drought and despair. Her symbol is a dried hand trying to grasp flowing sand.

There is only one even the other gods avoid to talk about, Oathu, god of Nothingness. He is said to seek the end of all things, and his power to destroy a  soul , is usually considered to be his most feared of his talents. While he would not seem to blindly annihilate everything in his path (though no one can be quite sure what his motives are since he doesn't seem to follow any pattern) and he is not particularly stronger than any of the other deities, have all the rest together concluded him to be such a risk to everyone's continued existence that have in a combined effort shut him away from all contact between the material worlds except for the powers he gives to the few that worship him. Oathu's symbol is a simple black disk that us slightly tattered from the edges.

The name of the local lady fortuna is Virnil, goddess of both good and bad luck.

 

 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok approaches the small alcove and has a quick conversation with the prophet, to determine what each of the items does, then makes his choice.  He walks away with a light brown gem and a small pile of grey dust, which he puts into a small pouch of doeskin.

 
 Spoiler 
Earth elemental gem and dust of illusion.
 
MrE
Taesha moves forwards and accepts the orb from the earth prophet, before moving to his cavern and selecting two more objects.
 "We will do this thing,"  she declared adamantly, but the mountain of woes he had revealed had unnerved her. How could they face so many earth shattering dangers? How could they face even one? She had not ignored his statement that her own blood would feed the flames. And to Aidan he had said that one sure way to stop the flames was to remove their source...

 
 Spoiler 
Earth Elemental Gem and Dust of Tracelessness.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Stiira will take Dust of Dispersion, Dust of Dryness and Daylight Pellets.
Eldien picks an Elemental Gem and Dust of Illusion.

Alright, everyone have made their picks, please add them to your character sheets, if you have not yet done so.
 


After everyone have picked their items, the prophet gives them directions of how to get out of the caves through the other path. The directions are complicated, but perhaps surprisingly he recites them more clearly than the dwarven child did. He tells the party to wait for the right moment to leave and so they get some well deserved rest.

 
 Spoiler 
Let's say the wait is long enough for you to get 8 hours of sleep. Please choose the spells, etc. for the new day.

You are also at full HP.
 


Finally, the prophet declares that the time is right, and so the party leaves the elemental's chamber to start their long walk back to the surface. They follow his instructions through the many tunnels and caverns on the way, but as he said, they don't run into anything that would like to harm or eat them. Once they see a pair of glowing eyes stare at them from one side tunnel, but whatever they belong to, it leaves the the travellers in peace.

The party reaches the last part of the prophet instructions, a narrow upward tunnel, and after they pass a bend in the path they see white light ahead in the end of the tunnel, too bright to be anything else than sunlight.
Athedia
Asha took a deep breath in relief of seeing the sun.  She had been nervous because she had not bound any of the vestiges to her spirit.  She hadn't wanted to in front of the others, not after their reaction to Ronove.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok approaches the light slowly and carefully, taking time to be quiet and listen for danger.  Once he reaches it, he inches out, making sure there is no ambush or waiting danger.  Once he is satisfied, he will beckon to the rest of the group.

 
 Spoiler 
Keeping same spell selection.
 
CWater
Kanok steps out of the mountain to a bright spring day. A strong wind blows to his face as soon as he leaves the cover of the tunnel, but he detects no other danger and so he gestures the others to follow him.

The path comes out next to a cliff on the south-west side of the mountain, judging by the position of the sun, and they have a good view over the whole mountain region. While there are many peaks and slopes all around, four mountains stand out clearly from among them.  The bluish River's Mother lies to the north-west where the orcs are said to live, and Calm Wind can be spotted a little farther away in the south-west where the elven tribes dwell, it's peak hidden by clouds. In the west, the party can see the Fifth looming in the centre if the area, and from behind it they can get a glimpse of the fire mountain the prophet mentioned. Even from this far, they can see dark grey smoke rise from its top.

 
 Spoiler: Remember the map Eldien drew 
 
 


Examining the nearby surroundings, they can find a path that leads down and towards the west.

 
 Spoiler 
Your plan now?
 
CWater
The party members make their way down the mountain path towards the west, in their plan to turn to the north or north-west when they can, to circle around the Fifth from that side. The weather is good and they make relatively good progress today, only slowed down by the difficult terrain.

 
 Spoiler: Asha 
Does she want to bind a vestige now that they are out?
 


When the sun approaches the horizon, they have left the Strong Rock behind them and downwards from their current position, they can see the treeline maybe an hour of climbing away. There is a small valley between the higher peaks and it would seem to stretch towards the north too.

 
 Spoiler: All 
It is not yet dark, just early dusk. Spot and Listen checks, please.

Stiira
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 

Eldien
Spot:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
 
MrE
Taesha visibly relaxed once they returned to the surface. She took a moment to feel the rush of nature and once more seek out its strength to imbue her meldings. The  essentia  here was not the same as back home she noted, it had a wilder, more primal edge, as well as a certain dour, solidity that she assumed came from the dwarves, or perhaps the earth prophet himself.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
 
Rathgar
 "Well, while the adventure down to the land under the land was blessedly strange, it is still nice to be able to see where I'm going again.  It's also a little less slippery to my hooves out here.  However, I we got to speak to the Prophet of Stone, and will get to speak with more soon.  We also learned who is working against us here.  May Anlin reveal unto us a truly strange way of solving all these problems we face." 
Athedia
Asha helped Eldien over to a good sitting rock.   "Can you make sure the others don't follow me?  I should be back soon." 

Leaving the group she walked over to a slightly hidden spot and rummaged around in her bag for her chalk.  Biting her lip she carefully drew the pattern she had memorized so long ago.  She remembered spending hours tracing it out in the dirt until it had been deemed correct.  The countless times her mother had pulled her aside, handed her some of the chalk so abundant in the nearby hills, and told her to draw the patterns as she named them, list off the costs of of each binding and the benefits they gave.  The chalk crumbled in her fingers as the circle and design within were completed and Asha stood back.

She took a few seconds to dust the chalk off her hands and straighten her clothing and hair out, making a mental note to take her knife to the locks that were starting to get long enough to bother her.  She wanted to look nice when she summoned this ancestor, she had not called on him before and her mother had never allowed her to watch, though the sight of the frozen twisted mouth was seared in her memory.  Taking a deep breath she activated the circle and spoke  "I, Asha Misra, call on the ancestors to help me on my journey.  Paimon, will you join with me?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Binding Check:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  vs  DC 20 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha helped Eldien over to a good sitting rock.   "Can you make sure the others don't follow me?  I should be back soon."  
 

  "Sure.."  Eldien replies. The elf looks like she would like to say or ask more, but in the end decides not to. She sits holding her remaining healthy leg close to her as she watches Asha wander away.


 Leaving the group she walked over to a slightly hidden spot and rummaged around in her bag for her chalk.  Biting her lip she carefully drew the pattern she had memorized so long ago.  She remembered spending hours tracing it out in the dirt until it had been deemed correct.  The countless times her mother had pulled her aside, handed her some of the chalk so abundant in the nearby hills, and told her to draw the patterns as she named them, list off the costs of of each binding and the benefits they gave.  The chalk crumbled in her fingers as the circle and design within were completed and Asha stood back.

She took a few seconds to dust the chalk off her hands and straighten her clothing and hair out, making a mental note to take her knife to the locks that were starting to get long enough to bother her.  She wanted to look nice when she summoned this ancestor, she had not called on him before and her mother had never allowed her to watch, though the sight of the frozen twisted mouth was seared in her memory.  Taking a deep breath she activated the circle and spoke  "I, Asha Misra, call on the ancestors to help me on my journey.  Paimon, will you join with me?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Binding Check: [roll0] vs  DC 20 
 
 

Wind starts to blow towards the binding circle and concentrates, forming a small whirlwind in its centre. Asha can almost detect a solid shape inside it, but it spins so fast that it's impossible to say for sure. And suddenly the whole whirl leaps out of the circle, past Asha, bouncing around the nearby rocks, until she loses the sight of it for a moment. Then a suave voice speaks from behind the binder, right next to her ear, "I don't think I've seen you before. Would you like to dance with me?" 
 
 Spoiler: Others 
I will respond to the perception checks when I get back home.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Sure.."  Eldien replies. The elf looks like she would like to say or ask more, but in the end decides not to. She sits holding her remaining healthy leg close to her as she watches Asha wander away.



Wind starts to blow towards the binding circle and concentrates, forming a small whirlwind in its centre. Asha can almost detect a solid shape inside it, but it spins so fast that it's impossible to say for sure. And suddenly the whole whirl leaps out of the circle, past Asha, bouncing around the nearby rocks, until she loses the sight of it for a moment. Then a suave voice speaks from behind the binder, right next to her ear, "I don't think I've seen you before. Would you like to dance with me?" 
 
 Spoiler: Others 
I will respond to the perception checks when I get back home.
 
 
 

Asha jumped a little at the sudden voice.   "Dance?  Uh..."  Her eyes searched the circle and she spotted it, a small scuff in the pattern.  This was not going to be a good joining.   "If you mean join for today, yes I would like too.  I don't dance much though, and I don't think we will have much time for it with the travel I need to do today."   She turned around,  "You are Paimon right?" 
CWater
Turning around Asha comes face to face with the spirit she has summoned. And it would be a handsome face... if was not strangely located on the right side of the head, as if it had not quite caught up with the rest after the spinning had stopped. But that is not what is most noticeable in the spirit's appearance. Covered in dark cloth, his torso appears to be human, but his arms are cut of from the elbow and legs end in the knee, and long unicorn horns potrude from the stumps instead, their points sharp like spears. He balances on the tip of his right 'foot', holding the left leg in front of him like in some unknown dance position. The twisted uneven mouth cracks a smirk.
 "Oh yes, Paimon is the name I carry. And carry it with  pride , I do. Always happy to meet new people, I'm sure we'll have a great time together."  Faster than what the eye can catch, he shifts to stand on one of his 'hands' instead.  "And don't worry about your steps, I am here to guide you after all." 

Paimon starts to spin rapidly again, until his shape blurs out of sight, then leaps towards Asha and disappears. For a moment the young binder experiences a disorienting feeling, when she looks at her arms and legs she almost sees the unicorn horns instead. This unsettling emotion passes after the spirit has settled in, but instead Asha can feel an invisible force pulling the right side of her mouth, leaving it disfigured. She also feels strangely restless, unable to stand still. She wants to dance, twirl, jump from rock to rock if nothing else!

 
 Spoiler: Sorry -_-' 
Didn't have time to post more today. Asha can return to the others. Follow up coming tomorrow.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Turning around Asha comes face to face with the spirit she has summoned. And it would be a handsome face... if was not strangely located on the right side of the head, as if it had not quite caught up with the rest after the spinning had stopped. But that is not what is most noticeable in the spirit's appearance. Covered in dark cloth, his torso appears to be human, but his arms are cut of from the elbow and legs end in the knee, and long unicorn horns potrude from the stumps instead, their points sharp like spears. He balances on the tip of his right 'foot', holding the left leg in front of him like in some unknown dance position. The twisted uneven mouth cracks a smirk.
 "Oh yes, Paimon is the name I carry. And carry it with  pride , I do. Always happy to meet new people, I'm sure we'll have a great time together."  Faster than what the eye can catch, he shifts to stand on one of his 'hands' instead.  "And don't worry about your steps, I am here to guide you after all." 

Paimon starts to spin rapidly again, until his shape blurs out of sight, then leaps towards Asha and disappears. For a moment the young binder experiences a disorienting feeling, when she looks at her arms and legs she almost sees the unicorn horns instead. This unsettling emotion passes after the spirit has settled in, but instead Asha can feel an invisible force pulling the right side of her mouth, leaving it disfigured. She also feels strangely restless, unable to stand still. She wants to dance, twirl, jump from rock to rock if nothing else!

 
 Spoiler: Sorry -_-' 
Didn't have time to post more today. Asha can return to the others. Follow up coming tomorrow.
 
 
 

Asha walked back to the others after scuffing out the remainder of the binding circle.  No need for anyone to know what she was doing after all.  As she walked she couldn't help making some hopping steps in a sort of semi dance.  It made walking slow and it took longer for her to arrive back then it had to get to the spot she had joined at.   "Sorry, Eldien, hope my absence wasn't a bother." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha walked back to the others after scuffing out the remainder of the binding circle.  No need for anyone to know what she was doing after all.  As she walked she couldn't help making some hopping steps in a sort of semi dance.  It made walking slow and it took longer for her to arrive back then it had to get to the spot she had joined at.   "Sorry, Eldien, hope my absence wasn't a bother."  
 

  "No, not at all" , the elf replies, looking thoughtful. Then something catches her eye.  "What-" 

Kanok, Aidan and Stiira hear a faint sound from behind the rocks in the direction where they came from, and stopping to listen, also from somewhere to their right. Footsteps maybe, and the experienced hunters can guess that they don't come from humanoid feet, but most likely something with four legs, and possibly claws. Kanok catches a glimpse of grey fur from behind them, and he can also see a blurry shape lurking behind the rocks on their right side.

 
 Spoiler 
 More and map when I get home from work.  Those alerted to the danger (Kanok, Aidan, Stiira, Eldien) can make one standard action before the inevitable initiative rolls. Note that only Kanok and the elf spotted the sources of the sounds.
 


EDIT:
 
 Spoiler: Map 
The terrain is rocky and uneven, and downhill to the south of the map. It's not quite as grey as the colours would suggest, there is grass and other small vegetation around. Darker grey are rocks of varying heights. C1 and C2 are out of sight, but Kanok saw them have grey fur and be about medium sized. He didn't get a good look of ?, the air around it is somehow blurry. The only thing he can really say is that it might be larger than the other two.

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok suddenly stops, assuming a ready stance, and turns to look to his right.  He roars to the rest of the group,  "Two behind us!" , while dashing to his right.  He stops just past Stiira and adopts a wide-legged stance.  He points to Stiira and yells to Fang,  "Defend!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Kanok moves to N15.

He attempts to handle Fang (to defend Stiira):
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Stiira glances around wildly, looking terrified as usual. She quickly casts a spell that conjures a transparent shield in front of her.

 "Over there!" , Eldien shouts and points in the direction where she spotted movement, before ducking (or more like falling, with her limited ability to move) behind the rock she was sitting on.

 
 Spoiler: Initiative 
Kanok:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 13 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Eldien:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
Enemies:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 

Aidan's turn before the enemies go.

Hmh, photobucket is down so I can't upload a new map. Well, the situation hasn't changed much.
 
Etherion
Aidan quickly moves to get a better look at one of the creatures that ducked behind the rocks.
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Double move to 11 W (unless I'm mistaken that's the only way to get LoS to C1
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27
Position: S13 

Hearing of the danger, but not seeing it, the centaur readies himself the best way he can.  Grabbing three of the stones he found in the cave, he begins to say a little prayer to Anlin over them, and they begin to glow slightly, then have their shape start to constantly distort into new shapes.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Magic Stone on three sling bullets, effect will last for 30 minutes.
 
CWater
A large feline jumps over the rocks behind the party and growls. It has thick grey fur, with long brown hairs growing out of its back and long sharp claws and teeth. The cat glares at the people with hungry eyes and something strange starts to happen to its face. The skin pulls away, exposing flesh and bone. It lets out an ear-splitting screech that sends a chill up the spine of those that hear it and pushes the fight or flight instict to favour the latter.

 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Effect 
Will sace DC 13 or run away screaming.
😉Okay, the screaming is optional, but a failure means you're  frightened  for  (1d4)[ 3 ]  rounds, success that you're shaken for 1.

Running in this rocky uneven terrain is risky, DC 7 Balance check to avoid stumbling and falling prone.

The one that jumped forward was C2, Aidan can see another similiar creature hiding behind the rocks too (C1). It doesn't move yet, but looks ready to jump and charge.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
CWater
Crying out in fear, Eldien tries to get as far away from the scary creature as she can, but her crawling is quite slow.

 
 Spoiler 
She only makes it as far as V15.
 
MrE
Taesha nearly trips over her own feet in surprise and stumbles away from the beast. It's face distorted in some strange way and she stared at the bare flesh of a monster.

Taesha joined Eldien in flight but soon outpaced her, speeding away from the creatures.

 
 Spoiler 
She tries to run: DC 7 balance check  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Will move to Q24 if she passes the check.
 
Athedia
Asha pushed off the rock and ran, survival instincts overcoming sense.

 
 Spoiler 
Balance  (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 

T15
 


She felt Paimon inside her as she sprung from rock to rock, often jumping off just as one slipped under her feet.
Seharvepernfan
The unearthly scream grabs Kanok's attention; the strong hunter unconsciously turns to regard the source.  It reaches deep into the darker parts of his mind, much like the echoing howls of the wendigo back home.  By the time he actually registers the flayed face of the beast that is screaming, he is already shaken.  The sight of the thing pushes him over the edge and before he knows it, he is running away.

Fang watches Kanok run off with a posture that clearly shows surprise and confusion.  He whines slightly, with an upturned inflection that signifies unease.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok runs downhill, far past the south edge of the map.
 
Etherion
Aidan, while shaken by the beasts hideous appearance and ear-splitting shriek, manages to maintain his composure and fire an arrow at it.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan hits the cat solidly in the side.

Seeing some of the others flee, Stiira is close to doing the same. But not everyone else are running.. Biting her lip, the witch leaves her hiding place behind the rock and takes a few steps forward.  " Cold form of water, freeze our enemy.. ",  she mutters and a blue orb flies from her palm towards the beast.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Orb of cold
Touch attack:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (2d8)[ 9 ] 
 


The spell hits the wounded creature in the neck and it falls over panting.
CWater
Right after the first beast collapses, another one jumps over the rocks and charges to attack Stiira.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Okay, it can't technically charge, but that's still what it looks like.😛
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 

The small witch manages to evade its jaws, but it doesn't stop her from screaming.

From behind the other boulders, where Kanok saw a blurry shape just a moment ago, emerges another cat-like being. But this one is different from the other two in many way. First of all it is much bigger, the fur is shorter, it has two extra legs just behind the first pair and from its back sprouts two long appendages, tentacles, in lack of a better word. Also, the light around it is blurred and inconsistent, making it hard to tell where exactly the creature stands.
 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 


It leaps forward, heading towards Tuntematon, all its six legs working in strange harmony. One of the tentacles swings at the centaur and he can see that its end is filled with sharp teeth.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 

The attack hits the centaur's side, but his naturally tough skin prevents it from causing any real damage.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Asha ended up a little more down on the map, but double move is the fastest you can move on this terrain.

 
 

 
 Spoiler: Next turn 
Party's turn. The fear effect doesn't depend on the users concentration or anything, but since the cat died, Kanok, Asha and Taesha can make new Will saves (same DC) to overcome it. If they fail, they continue their flight, new Balance checks from them in that case please. Also, the check is required from anyone who moves more than just their base speed. (Should have asked that from Aidan some rounds earlier, but I forgot, so we'll let that slide.)

Attacks against the new enemy have a 50% miss chance due to the displacement.
 
Etherion
Aidan puts away his bow, and draws his axes while moving towards the beast attacking Stiira.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move action 1: Put away bow (I'm sad this isn't a free action)
Move action 2: Move to R9 and draw axes
 
Seharvepernfan
There was a sudden clarity in Kanok's mind.  He didn't understand what happened, but he was no longer in fear.  He abruptly stopped fleeing, halted, then reversed momentum, turning around and charging headlong back into the fray.  Seeing the ...beast assaulting Tunta, he knew exactly where to go.

As he bore down on the creature, he bade Fang do the same.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok charges the blurred cat, moving into Q16.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 31 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 12 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 27 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
Telling fang to attack.  If successful:

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Starting Position S13, Ending Position X14? 

The sudden appearance of another strange feline came as a surprise to Tuntematon.   "Gah, another big ugly cat!  At this point, it's kill or be eaten!  As for the distortion, Anlin has gifted me with the ability to do that as well!  Hämärtää!"   With that, the centaur's image began to distort stangely.  In an attempt to not be mauled, he backed up and let loose one of the freshly distorted rocks at the beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: Actived Blurred effect on armor
Move Action: Attempt to move back to square X14
Standard Action: If I make it to X14, fire a magically enhanced stone at the mystery monster that attacked.

Rolls:
 Attack Roll:   (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 Miss Chance (Low Roll Hits):   (1d100)[ 54 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok charges at the alien beast ramming his spear to its side. He tries to motion Fang to follow him, but is not able to give clear commands in the hurry, and the dog just stands confused. Tuntematon takes the opportunity to back away, though one of the creature's tentacles still swings in his direction.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 7 ] 
 (1d5)[ 1 ]  miss on 1 due to Blur.
 

But it hits only air. The centaur sends a rock flying back towards the creature, but the tricks of the light end up fooling him and the stone passes harmlessly through a false image.

Stiira runs away from the cat that tried to bite her, being careful so it doesn't get a new chance. Eldien continues to move away from the fight.

 
 Spoiler: Other info 
New map when I get home.
Taesha's and Asha's turn now.

Oh, and those that want to, can make new Spot &amp; Lists checks. (They won't affect this round, so MrE and Athedia don't need to wait for the results.)
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
CWater
Overcoming the wave of fear, Taesha moves back towards the battle. Asha continues to flee down the hill.
 
 Spoiler: Balance 
Asha's Balance check:  (1d20+1)[ 15 ]  DC 7.
 


The smaller animal takes a step back, away from Aidan's immediate reach. It then pulls back the skin from its face in the same manner as its deceased companion ans lets out a new terrifying screech.

 
 Spoiler: And.. 
Everyone make a new Will save, DC 13.

Except Asha, who is out of range. Though she is still under the previous fear effect, this is the last round of that.
 


The displacer beast turns around to face the one who wounded it. Roaring, it tries to first slash Kanok fwith both its tentacles, then bite him when he's distracted.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Tentacle1:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 

Tentacle2:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 

15 damage in total.
 

The creature sinks all its sharp teeth to the warriors flesh.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan again is able to maintain composure, and manages to take a step towards the beast and slash at it with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5 ft step to q8
Attack:
 (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan's first attack is a miss, but the second strike tears a bloodred stripe to the creature's hide.
Seharvepernfan
Caught in the heat of the moment, the pain has yet to fully hit Kanok, though he is well aware of his wounds.  He knows he simply needs to distract the beast until the others can surround it, so he holds his ground.  The second scream rolls right over him; he is too focused on the larger creature to be terrified of the smaller one, but Fang is overwhelmed, and immediately flees downhill.

The mighty warrior plants his feet wide, steeling himself for another barrage.  With a roar, Kanok tilts forward again to stab the creature, letting instinct guide his aim.

 
 Spoiler 
Using the Stone Bones maneuver.
 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
 Displacement:   (1d2)[ 2 ] , 1 misses.

If successful, Kanok gains DR 5/adamantine until his next turn.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27, Blurred (4 rounds remaining) Frightened (X rounds remaining, -2 to rolls)
Starting Position X14, Ending Position AI23 

Too terrified to speak, Tuntematon's equine instinct takes over, and he gallops off as quickly as he can away from the danger.
CWater
The scream makes Stiira shudder, and is barely able to keep herself from running away. It would be easy to give in to the fear even she managed to shake of the magic, but that would really make her the coward she has been told to be. After a moment of hesitation she runs after Aidan who is fighting the bone faced beast, and casts a spell to make him stronger.

 
 Spoiler 
Spell is Bull's Strength as you can probably guess. Duration 4 minutes.
 


The terrified elf just continues to crawl away from the fight.
CWater
 Taesha runs towards the creature Kanok just wounded a second time, and jumps to slash it with all of her four claws. 
 
 Spoiler: Ignore 
MrE has been away for several days, so I'll go for Taesha now.  Hope I got all the modifiers right. ^^'

Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 1 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 2 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 2 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 13 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 2 ]  miss on 1.
Her AC is 13 until the next round. 
Forgot about the Will save, sorry. -_-' Rolled it OOC and she unfortunately

I'll go for the enemies soon.
 


Taesha is again overcome by fear and runs downhill after Asha.
CWater
  
 Spoiler: Ignore this 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 12 ] 
 


Her first attack hits only the image and the beast evades the two following strikes, but the last one lands solidly. 
CWater
Compelled to flee, Taesha fails to watch her steps and trips on a rock, falling down on the hard ground.

The blurred cat roars in anger and attacks Kanok again with its appendages, trying to bring him down.

 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Tentacle1:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

Tentacle2:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 7 ] 

He has DR 5, so 8 damage in total.
 

Both tentacles scratch the warrior, but they don't sink as deep to his skin as the beast expected. It looks slightly confused when it pulls the tentacles back for a new attack. This sort of prey shouldn't have this hard skin...

The smaller beast growls at Aidan and leaps towards the hunter sharp claws bared.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 1 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20)[ 1 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 1 ] 
 

But the nimble ranger evades all of its attacks.

 
 Spoiler: Map1 
Sorry for not making this clear enough, but the difference in middle and light grey marks the edge of a cliff. I placed Tuntematon on the map where I assumed he would run, I hope this is okay.

 
 


Asha has fled further than any of the others, but now she feels the overwhelming fear letting go of her mind. But she gets no time to catch her breath, as three other grey cats jump from behind the rocks around her. Two run to attack her before she even has a chance to react, the third comes close, but not quite managing to reach her yet.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks! 
C3
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

C4
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 

Still, she is able to dodge the jaws of both creatures.
 "Will we dance now?",  a voice asks inside her head.

 
 Spoiler: Map2 
 
 
Etherion
Aidan swiftly retaliates against the beast, once again striking at it with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 (1d6+2)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan chops the smaller cat to pieces with precise swings.

 
 Spoiler 
Tuntematon, Taesha and Fang get to make new Will saves to shrug off the fear effect.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok, now quite wounded, with many long rakes and punctures in his flesh, leaking blood, makes the decision to retreat, at least momentarily.  He quickly lunges forward to stab the beast yet again with his magical spear, then immediately darts to his left, dashing for the rocks that the beast came from.  He expects to be slashed across the back while doing so, but it simply can't be helped.  While moving, he draws his wand from it's pocket in his furs.  Rounding a corner in the stand of boulders, he suddenly leaps to gain a bit more distance between himself and the ghostly creature.

Meanwhile, in the distance, Fang continues to flee.

 
 Spoiler 
 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 

Kanok moves to J14, then used sudden leap to go even further to the left.  While moving, he draws his wand of cure light wounds.
 Jump:   (1d20+11)[ 25 ] 
Im not sure if that counts as a running jump or not, so if not, halve his distance.

By my math, Kanok took 10 points of damage, last round, so that's what I put on his sheet.
 
Athedia
 Asha shook off her fear and started moving back toward the creatures.  How could she have left Eldien and Stirra?  She was usually braver than this. 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
 


As Kanok expected, one of the tentacles slash him from behind, leaving a deep cut in his back. He runs towards the rocks where the creature was hiding earlier and jumps to get behind them.

 
 Spoiler: Kanok's movement 
He can only make it to K15 with normal movement, though he can still leap from there, the angle is just a little different. If I understood the description of Sudden Leap correctly, he ends up in H11.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27, Blurred (3 rounds remaining)
Starting Position Z30, Ending Position S27 

Realizing that the rest of the party didn't decide to run at the same time he did, Tuntematon stops and doubles back at the shifting cat, hoping to help those who are stuck still fighting it.  Seeing how distant the foe is, the centaur says a little prayer to Anlin under his breath, then lets loose one of the evershifting stones blessed by Anlin herself.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to S27
Standard Action: Shoot Magic Stone with sling at R14 (-2 penalty for being in 2nd range increment, target may receive cover due to being in close combat)

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Asha has fled further than any of the others, but now she feels the overwhelming fear letting go of her mind. But she gets no time to catch her breath, as three other grey cats jump from behind the rocks around her. Two run to attack her before she even has a chance to react, the third comes close, but not quite managing to reach her yet.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks! 
C3
Bite: [roll12]
Damage: [roll13]

C4
Bite: [roll14]
Damage: [roll15]
 

Still, she is able to dodge the jaws of both creatures.
 "Will we dance now?",  a voice asks inside her head.

 
 Spoiler: Map2 
 
 
 
 

 "Let's."  Asha gripped Fear in her hands launching past the cat, spinning and whirling and leaping from rock to rock.  As she passed each cat her spear struck out.

 
 Spoiler 
Dance of Death with Spear Form

C3:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 

C4:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 

C5:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+6)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 

Dancing going to R45 then up to R40
 
CWater
Asha's first attack wounds one of the cats, but the other two evade her. All three try to take a bite of her when she dances past them.

 
 Spoiler: AoOs 
C3
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

C4
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

C5
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Asha takes 10 damage.

Sorry, I've been a little busy with work and other personal things during these past few days. I won't unfortunately be able to put up an updated map until late today, or perhaps tomorrow, but I will try to move things forward so we get to the next round still today.
 
CWater
As Taesha stands up again, she feels the strange fear loose it's grip of her mind.

The displacer beast roars and runs after Kanok, unwilling to let wounded prey escape. However, being quite large, it has to slow down when it passes the narrow gap between the rocks and thus can't quite reach him.

The three smaller beasts chase after Asha. She wounded one of them, but they believe in the strength of their numbers. It has served them well before.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
C3
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

C4
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 1 ] 

C5
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 


But not this time. With the help of her newly bound spirit, Asha is able to dodge all of their attacks.
  Why did you claim you could not dance?!   Paimon laughs, sounding joyous.   You move with great elegance!  
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Oh look, maps! 
Sadly everyone don't fit in one..
 
 Spoiler: Map1 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map2 
 
 

 
Athedia
 "I usually don't have help."   Asha looked at the cats and then around her.  She was not going to attempt to fight them on her own, not after the bites she had gotten the last time.  Instead she ran back to the others, annoyed she had managed to get so far away.

 
 Spoiler: Balance Check 
Balance Check:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Double move
4 rounds til Dance of Death is available again
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok quickly scrambles to his left again, coming to a hard stop in a natural alcove amid the jutting rocks.  Hurrying, he activates his wand, touching it to the worst of his wounds.  He holds his spear out, knowing the witch-cat will be close behind.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves to E10, then uses his wand.

 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27, Blurred (2 rounds remaining)
Starting Position S27, Ending Position Q20 

Trotting quickly in an attempt to not let the displaced feline escape and relaunch a later ambush, Tuntematon gets into the best position he can, then lets loose his final evershifting sling bullet.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to Q20
Standard Action: Shoot sling bullet at J14

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 Extra Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 Miss Chance (Low Hits):   (1d100)[ 27 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan moves towards the rest of the party.
 
 Spoiler: Move  
To Q 14
 
CWater
Stiira follows Aidan, using a charge from her boots to keep up with him. The witch mutters some arcane words and claws made of sand spring forth from her right hand.

 
 Spoiler 
Spending one charge from Acrobat Boots for 10 ft. of extra movement. (swift action)
Casting Scimitar of Sand (changed to claws).
 
CWater
Seeing the large cat wound Kanok and then chase after him, Taesha too hurries after them.

 
 Spoiler: Balance 
Balance check:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
 


The three cats chase after Asha, trying to surround her.

The displacer beast corners Kanok, though due to being large, it has to slow down to get through the narrow path between the rocks.

 
 Spoiler 
It gets to a square adjacent to Kanok with a double move, but thus doesn't get an attack yet.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map, only one this time! 
I had Fang flee to the right, since it didn't seem logical for him to continue in the same direction with the three cats charging from there.

 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Starting Position Q20, Ending Position I19 

Tuntematon continued to trot after the displacer beast, hoping to not let it escape his sling's reach.   "Come back here, evil puuma, you've caused us enough trouble, now meet your fate in the form of a peculiarly shaped rock!  If it be Anlin's will..."   With that, the centaur let loose a rock from his sling shaped almost like a duck, thusly making true his promise to at least attempt to make it meet the cat.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to I19
Standard Action: Attack F12 with Sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 11 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   [roll1d4+1[/roll] 
 Miss Chance (Low Roll Hits):   (1d100)[ 1 ] 

Edit: I messed up one of the rolls, but that one didn't matter anyhow
 
CWater
The stone hits the beast solidly on the head. The cat's protective displacement hides the its condition somewhat, but its stance implies that the many wounds are starting to tire it.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, forgot to confirm; Tuntematon's previous attack hit too.
 
Seharvepernfan
Noticing the sling bullets zipping in at the beast, Kanok knows help is on the way.  The creature is obviously wounded and tiring.  Now, he only needs to survive long enough for the others to gang up and bring it down.  He assumes a defensive stance and holds his spear out sideways with both hands, ready to block, parry, or dodge any attack that comes his way.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok takes a total defense action, attaining an AC of 21.
 
Athedia
Asha kept running.  She just needed one of the cats to die and she could handle the others, but she needed to lure them closer first.

 
 Spoiler 
Balance Check:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Double move N28 toN20 to M20
3 rounds til Dance of Death is available again
 
CWater
The cat that had circled to stand in front of Asha tries to take a bite of her as she runs past it.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
C5
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 


But the binder easily dodges the hasty attack.
CWater
Aidan continues to move closer to the fight, careful not to fall over on the rocky ground. Stiira follows a few steps behind him.

Taesha charges at the large cat that has Kanok cornered, leaping into the air and slashing at it with her four claws.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 2 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ]  Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 11 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 2 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ]  Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 15 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 1 ]  miss on 1.
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 8 ]  Disp:  (1d2)[ 1 ]  miss on 1.

Taesha's AC is 13 until the next round.
 


Her first attack adds a deep wound to the creature's back, but the creature is fast and dodges the second, and the last ones miss due to the illusion.
CWater
Infuriated, the displacer beast spins around and retaliates by slashing Taesha with its appendages.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Tentacle1:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 

Tentacle2:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 

Taesha takes  14  damage. Sorry,  8 damage . (I keep forgetting the DR.)
 


The three smaller cats reach the rest of the party. Two keep following Asha, one heads towards Aidan.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Attacking Asha
C3
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 2 ] 

C5
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Asha takes 3 damage


Attacking Aidan:
C4
Bite:  (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 

But the ranger turns out to be a difficult target to hit. Asha too avoids the first creature trying to take a bite of her, but the second attack comes too soon, and the other cat's teeth scratch her thigh, though the wound doesn't seem deep.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
CWater
  You move beautifully, even while retreating,   Asha hears Paimon say in her mind,   But this weapon of yours... No no, it won't do at all. It is far too clumsy for my steps. Hold on, I'll lend you one of mine.  

And suddenly the binder feels stinging pain in her right hand. It is a bit similiar to the sensation of stabbing the hand with a dagger (something she did a short while back), except that this time... the blade is coming from the other side of her skin. A long sharp spike bursts out from her palm, sending drops of blood flying all around. It is made of bone and looks identical to those unicorn horns Paimon's form had in place for limbs.

  There! That should do it,   the spirit says, sounding very pleased with himself.

 
 Spoiler 
This is a fix to make some of Paimon's abilities usable in this setting, since there are no rapiers or shortswords around which would normally be needed.

The spike/bone/whatever works mechanically just like a rapier. If Asha wraps her fingers around it, she can create the illusion (at least to the casual observer) that she's holding the thing in her hand, instead of it growing out of her.

If she has made a successful binding check, she can call it out and have it disappear at will, as with the sign. With a Bad Pact, like today, it is under Paimon's control. The spike cannot be removed from Asha's hand with less than brutal means (she cannot be normally disarmed), though on the other hand (haha) it's presence can make some other activities, like climbing, more difficult.

 Dance of Death is exceptionally available again,  even if it is a few rounds early. But just this once!
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
   You move beautifully, even while retreating,   Asha hears Paimon say in her mind,   But this weapon of yours... No no, it won't do at all. It is far too clumsy for my steps. Hold on, I'll lend you one of mine.  

And suddenly the binder feels stinging pain in her right hand. It is a bit similiar to the sensation of stabbing the hand with a dagger (something she did a short while back), except that this time... the blade is coming from the other side of her skin. A long sharp spike bursts out from her palm, sending drops of blood flying all around. It is made of bone and looks identical to those unicorn horns Paimon's form had in place for limbs.

  There! That should do it,   the spirit says, sounding very pleased with himself.

 
 Spoiler 
This is a fix to make some of Paimon's abilities usable in this setting, since there are no rapiers or shortswords around which would normally be needed.

The spike/bone/whatever works mechanically just like a rapier. If Asha wraps her fingers around it, she can create the illusion (at least to the casual observer) that she's holding the thing in her hand, instead of it growing out of her.

If she has made a successful binding check, she can call it out and have it disappear at will, as with the sign. With a Bad Pact, like today, it is under Paimon's control. The spike cannot be removed from Asha's hand with less than brutal means (she cannot be normally disarmed), though on the other hand (haha) it's presence can make some other activities, like climbing, more difficult.

 Dance of Death is exceptionally available again,  even if it is a few rounds early. But just this once!
 
 
 

Asha almost screamed at the sensation of the spike coming through her hand, but held herself together.  She couldn't lose this weapon, that was nice.  Somewhat.  She turned back to face the cats again and jumped forward, the bone swinging to connect with them.

 
 Spoiler 
I assume the Weapon Finesse part applies as well? Since it works with the +4 dex from Paimon so well

C5:
Attack: (1d20+7)[ 17 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ]  Oops...

C3:
Attack: (1d20+7)[ 17 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Oops again...

C4:
Attack: (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+7)[ 21 ]  and again...

Move to N23, 5 rounds to DoD
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
C5 Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 4 ] 
C3 Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 8 ] 
C4 Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Dancing past the beasts, Asha cuts down one of them and wounds the two others. They try to bite her, but she evades them with graceful steps. Though her head is ringing with Paimon's exhilarated laughter.

 
 Spoiler: AoOs 
C3 is dead.

C4
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

C5
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan swings his axes at the cat that tried to bite him.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
 (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
 (1d6+2)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
The cat doesn't even have the time to regret its error when it severed head drops to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
C4 is dead.

Only D1 and C5 are still standing.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok wastes no time taking advantage of his ally's sudden charge; he steps forward and rams his spear into the beast's ribcage (or where it appears to be).  He is uncharacteristically silent during this attack, as he doesn't want the cat to pay attention to him.

 
 Spoiler 

+2 from flanking
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical...
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 12 ] 
 Displacement:   (1d2)[ 2 ] , 1 misses

If the cat falls, Kanok will move to H17.
 
CWater
Not tricked by the illusions, Kanok strikes true and the spear pierces the beast's heart. As it collapses to the ground, the blur around it vanishes.

 
 Spoiler 
Only C5 left.
 
Rathgar
 AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 27/27
Position I19 
 "And the greatest of the cats has fallen, now, to help with the others."   Tuntematon then turned around and flung another sling bullet at the only remaining cat.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack last remaining critter

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CWater
The stone misses the last remaining cat, but the target turns around hissing and runs away from scene, clearly interested in its own survival.

 
 Spoiler: XP 
Combat over! 850 XP for all.
 
Athedia
Asha turned away from the others, tucking her hand in front of her.    Paimon, I want to say thanks for your gift, but uh... I don't know how the others will take to it.  Some of them already were disturbed when they saw me bind, this may be to much."  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha turned away from the others, tucking her hand in front of her.    Paimon, I want to say thanks for your gift, but uh... I don't know how the others will take to it.  Some of them already were disturbed when they saw me bind, this may be to much."   
 

  What a great performance it has been! The enemy had no chance and fled in terror! You have magnificent companions, by the way. You should introduce us! Oh, I shall have a singer make a song of this glorious battle. Or perhaps I shall do it myself... what rhymes with twirl...   The spirit seems immersed in his own rambling.

Stiira allows the sand claws disperse and lets out a sigh of relief.  "That.. that was all of them, right?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok leaves the halfling's question unanswered, as he assumed it was rhetorical.  He nods to Taesha when passing her to get his dropped wand; she likely saved his life today, and he is thankful.  Retrieving it from the ground, he spends a few moments concentrating, leaning against the rocks and closing his eyes.  His fight with the witch-cat was harrowing, and he'd rather the others not see him show it.

Upon returning to the group, he calls Fang to his side.  He is glad to see that the dog is unhurt; he lost track of him during the fight.  The others seem mostly unharmed, so Kanok begins inspecting the slain felines.

 
 Spoiler 
Are there any trees nearby?  Or anything we could build a fire with?

 Nature:   (1d20+10)[ 15 ] 
If there is anything relevant or noteworthy to be learned or remembered.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok leaves the halfling's question unanswered, as he assumed it was rhetorical.  He nods to Taesha when passing her to get his dropped wand; she likely saved his life today, and he is thankful.  Retrieving it from the ground, he spends a few moments concentrating, leaning against the rocks and closing his eyes.  His fight with the witch-cat was harrowing, and he'd rather the others not see him show it.

Upon returning to the group, he calls Fang to his side.  He is glad to see that the dog is unhurt; he lost track of him during the fight.  The others seem mostly unharmed, so Kanok begins inspecting the slain felines.

 
 Spoiler 
Are there any trees nearby?  Or anything we could build a fire with?

 Nature:   [roll0]
If there is anything relevant or noteworthy to be learned or remembered.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
If you continue down the path a little further you will reach the treeline. From what you can see, it's not very far away, you can probably get there within the next hour.

The cats are all without question, dead. Save for the some slightly unusual qualities (skinless face and extra appendages) there is nothing remarkable about the beasts. Do you want to do something with them?

Oh btw, the food you have left will last only for about two days for the whole group. Though I'm not sure if these cats would make a very good lunch, I understand that predators are not very tasty.😉
 
CWater
With the danger gone for now, the party continues to follow the path down. The amount of green around them seems to increase on every step, until finally they reach the treeline itself and step into the reassuring cover of the forest. From higher up they could see that the trees fill most of this thin valley that stretches both north and south from where they are now.

The travellers are setting up camp for the night, when the sky decides it is time for a little bit rain. Or maybe not just a little. They finish building the shelter quickly, but don't quite manage to stay entirely dry. However, they have the roof up before the worst downpour.

Eldien sits in a corner, looking obviously frustrated about the fact that she cannot be of much help.  "So..." , she says,  "Assuming we manage to deliver this stone to the fire spirit, what are you planning on doing next? The prophet said many things.. But I have no idea what a lot of them could mean." 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 


Asha couldn't get Paimon to listen and she just resorted to wrapping her fingers around the bone.  Frustrated she sat next Eldien, unable to help build the roof without stabbing the others.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok left the cat carcass out in the rain several strides away; if he cannot cook it, he does not want some other beast to attack him for it.  He stares out over the valley for several breaths, looking through gaps in the trees.  He is absentmindedly patting Fang, who lays up against him, lazily wagging his tail.  Without turning, he speaks,  "A strong chance we will share words with the elven sage, if he will have us.  The other prophets as well, if the winds are right.  After, ...I cannot know.  The fifth peak is here; it seems wise to know the state of the seal before heading back down into the flat lands.  Then, we must stop the gnoll creature from rising the dead.

Though, it may be that Taesha's people will bring war before then." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy: [roll0]
 


Asha couldn't get Paimon to listen and she just resorted to wrapping her fingers around the bone.  Frustrated she sat next Eldien, unable to help build the roof without stabbing the others. 
 

The elf gives Asha and the blade a long look, but eventually decides not to inquire about it.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok left the cat carcass out in the rain several strides away; if he cannot cook it, he does not want some other beast to attack him for it.  He stares out over the valley for several breaths, looking through gaps in the trees.  He is absentmindedly patting Fang, who lays up against him, lazily wagging his tail.  Without turning, he speaks,  "A strong chance we will share words with the elven sage, if he will have us.  The other prophets as well, if the winds are right.  After, ...I cannot know.  The fifth peak is here; it seems wise to know the state of the seal before heading back down into the flat lands.  Then, we must stop the gnoll creature from rising the dead.

Though, it may be that Taesha's people will bring war before then."  
 

 "An elven sage?",  Eldien looks up, surprised,  "You didn't say you were going to look for the elves.."  She sounds obviously worried about the prospect. The mention of the Fifth does not exactly cheer her up either.  "The Fifth is cursed..."  she mutters.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The elf gives Asha and the blade a long look, but eventually decides not to inquire about it.



 "An elven sage?",  Eldien looks up, surprised,  "You didn't say you were going to look for the elves.."  She sounds obviously worried about the prospect. The mention of the Fifth does not exactly cheer her up either.  "The Fifth is cursed..."  she mutters. 
 

 "They can't hurt you anymore.  You share my blood and ancestors now.  We are protected." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "They can't hurt you anymore.  You share my blood and ancestors now.  We are protected."  
 

 "I'm...very grateful for that."  The worry doesn't entirely leave the elf's face, but the binder's words seem to give her a little comfort.  "Still, I wish I wouldn't always have to flee or hide when we encounter danger",  she says, biting her lip,  "But as things are... If I had a bow.. I might be able to aid you, and not be so helpless."  She sighs.  "Or maybe I'll just need to learn to accept my fate." 
 
 Spoiler 
I though Asha had the green light?😉😛
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I'm...very grateful for that."  The worry doesn't entirely leave the elf's face, but the binder's words seem to give her a little comfort.  "Still, I wish I wouldn't always have to flee or hide when we encounter danger",  she says, biting her lip,  "But as things are... If I had a bow.. I might be able to aid you, and not be so helpless."  She sighs.  "Or maybe I'll just need to learn to accept my fate." 
 
 Spoiler 
I though Asha had the green light?😉😛
 
 
 

Asha paused, then awkwardly heaved her pack off her back. The hide was dirty and worn from the journey but it held what she needed.  Rooting around with her non-impaled hand she pulled out a strip of cloth and some smooth stones.   "This isn't much... but it was my best one so I brought it.  Smoothest stones I could find too.  Haven't used it to much though."   She awkwardly put it in Eldien's hands.   "You'll use it more than me, it's not a bow but it's something."   She sighed and thumped the bone spike against the ground.   "Never learned how to make that stuff, starting to regret it.  I focused on learning how to talk to the ancestors, not that this one is listening." 
 
 Spoiler 
Masterwork Sling and 5 Sling Bullets
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha paused, then awkwardly heaved her pack off her back. The hide was dirty and worn from the journey but it held what she needed.  Rooting around with her non-impaled hand she pulled out a strip of cloth and some smooth stones.   "This isn't much... but it was my best one so I brought it.  Smoothest stones I could find too.  Haven't used it to much though."   She awkwardly put it in Eldien's hands.   "You'll use it more than me, it's not a bow but it's something."   She sighed and thumped the bone spike against the ground.   "Never learned how to make that stuff, starting to regret it.  I focused on learning how to talk to the ancestors, not that this one is listening." 
 
 Spoiler 
Masterwork Sling and 5 Sling Bullets
 
 
 

  ...valiantly they fought, ending the beasts life
At the speed of thought, they won this strife...  
While Paimon may truly have been an excellent warrior once, it is becoming painfully clear to Asha that a songmaker he is not.

Eldien accepts the sling with a nod and more words of embarrassed gratitude.  "I...promise I won't let you down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Guess I really should stat this elf one of these days.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
   ...valiantly they fought, ending the beasts life
At the speed of thought, they won this strife...  
While Paimon may truly have been an excellent warrior once, it is becoming painfully clear to Asha that a songmaker he is not.

Eldien accepts the sling with a nod and more words of embarrassed gratitude.  "I...promise I won't let you down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Guess I really should stat this elf one of these days.
 
 
 

Asha groaned and held pinched her nose.    Paimon, really?  Look if you won't let me use this hand today at least work of your verse.  You don't NEED to rhyme everything.  "You might not but I am really regretting not learning how to make that bow.  Was this really worth it?" 
Etherion
 If you'd like a bow, I'd be able to make one for you. 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha groaned and held pinched her nose.    Paimon, really?  Look if you won't let me use this hand today at least work of your verse.  You don't NEED to rhyme everything.  "You might not but I am really regretting not learning how to make that bow.  Was this really worth it?"  
 

  What do you mean cannot use? You can slay your enemies! Listen to their woes and cries!
...Wait, that does not work..  

 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  If you'd like a bow, I'd be able to make one for you.  
 

Eldien spins around to look at the usually silent ranger,  "You... you could?"  A sparkle of of hope glimmers in her eyes for a moment. Then she looks ashamed again,  "But I shouldn't ask you to trouble yourselves so much because of me. I'm already a burden to you." 
 
 Spoiler 
🙂You are being so nice to this broken elf.

It would need to be a shortbow. I rule that in her condition a longbow would be difficult to use.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
   What do you mean cannot use? You can slay your enemies! Listen to their woes and cries!
...Wait, that does not work..  



Eldien spins around to look at the usually silent ranger,  "You... you could?"  A sparkle of of hope glimmers in her eyes for a moment. Then she looks ashamed again,  "But I shouldn't ask you to trouble yourselves so much because of me. I'm already a burden to you." 
 
 Spoiler 
🙂You are being so nice to this broken elf.

It would need to be a shortbow. I rule that in her condition a longbow would be difficult to use.
 
 
 

Asha turned away so the others couldn't see her face grow more and more strained, it was like talking to a child and trying to convince them that their brilliant plan was not in fact the best idea.    Yes, true, true.  But there are no enemies here.  It could just pop out of my hand again like before right?  Wouldn't that be more fun?"  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha turned away so the others couldn't see her face grow more and more strained, it was like talking to a child and trying to convince them that their brilliant plan was not in fact the best idea.    Yes, true, true.  But there are no enemies here.  It could just pop out of my hand again like before right?  Wouldn't that be more fun?"   
 

  No enemies?   Paimon seems to consider this.   ...You could still do some neat tricks with it, I could teach you to stand on the tip of it, like I do! ...No? Oh, fine then.   The spirit sounds resigned, and as quickly as the bone blade appeared, it now shrinks back into Asha's hand. Surprisingly, it leaves no wound behind, only some stray splatters of blood.
Athedia
  Maybe later, thank you Paimon."    Asha rubbed her fingers over where the bone blade had been, amazed at the unbroken skin.  Quickly she wiped the blood off her hand and turned back to the others.
Etherion
 It's no trouble. I'll get to work on it soon. I imagine you'd prefer a shortbow? 
 
 Spoiler: undefined 
Honestly, I just like to get some use out of my skills. Makes the points feel like a worthwhile investment.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  It's no trouble. I'll get to work on it soon. I imagine you'd prefer a shortbow?  
 

 "Y-es, I think that might be better. Thank you, I promise, I remember my depts." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
   Maybe later, thank you Paimon."    Asha rubbed her fingers over where the bone blade had been, amazed at the unbroken skin.  Quickly she wiped the blood off her hand and turned back to the others. 
 

Eldien is fully distracted by the other discussion, but Asha catches Stiira staring at her. When their eyes meet, the little witch quickly shifts her gaze to the rain and pulls her hood up.
Athedia
What was it with these people?  They accept a man-horse, don't question the jumping girl with claws, but she talks to her ancestors and gets odd looks?

She stood up moving closer to Stiira in the guise of stretching her legs.  When she was in front of the small witch Asha pause and sat on the floor, still stretching out some muscles.   "Didn't your elders teach you it was rude to stare?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 What was it with these people?  They accept a man-horse, don't question the jumping girl with claws, but she talks to her ancestors and gets odd looks?

She stood up moving closer to Stiira in the guise of stretching her legs.  When she was in front of the small witch Asha pause and sat on the floor, still stretching out some muscles.   "Didn't your elders teach you it was rude to stare?"  
 

The halfling flinches and instinctively leans a little away from the human.  "...I-I didnt ...stare. ... as just wondering about your... magic... " 
CWater
It continues to rain late into the night, and their shelter offers only so much cover from the water that creeps in from everywhere. Around the early hours of the next morning the downpour finally shows signs of stopping, and when the party gets up to continue their journey, the weather is merely cloudy. The forest floor has done its best to absorb the contents of this excessive watering, but a layer of mud still covers most of the area, with puddles of various sizes here and there.

 
 Spoiler 
You chose to head north, if I remember correctly?

Aidan can make Search check to look for the bow materials now, DC 13. (I assume you're not spending the whole day on it.) Other's can help, their individual DC is 16, but Aid Another DC is 10 (I must have been half-sleeping when I posted about this last time).

Everyone are free to make a Spot and Listen check.
 
Athedia
Asha had been thinking about what the little witch had said.  She had left her there, hiding in her cloak and gone to set up her sleep area by Eldien.  The next morning, all traces of Paimon gone from her mind, she gently stood next to Stiira and offered her hand.   "I can show you.  It isn't magic, but if you really wanted to know." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha had been thinking about what the little witch had said.  She had left her there, hiding in her cloak and gone to set up her sleep area by Eldien.  The next morning, all traces of Paimon gone from her mind, she gently stood next to Stiira and offered her hand.   "I can show you.  It isn't magic, but if you really wanted to know."  
 

Stiira looks genuinely surprised about the offer,  "Not... magic? You would show?"  She hesitates a little, before following Asha.  "I remember... that  thing  made of wood...?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I thought about it, but decided that she wouldn't know the word for 'coffin'. Her tribe burns their dead.
 
Etherion
Aidan searches around for materials to construct a bow.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20)[ 9 ] 
It's too bad it's not a survival check. I'd make that effectively automatically.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Stiira looks genuinely surprised about the offer,  "Not... magic? You would show?"  She hesitates a little, before following Asha.  "I remember... that  thing  made of wood...?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I thought about it, but decided that she wouldn't know the word for 'coffin'. Her tribe burns their dead.
 
 
 

 "Yes, during life it holds possessions, during death it safeguards against those who defy the Ancestors.  Ronove was a remarkable woman, her mind so strong she no longer needed to eat, sleep or even drink.  She is eternally guarding those who did not become Ancestors."   When they reached a secluded area Asha paused.   "I will be communing with Paimon again.  He is excitable, but don't fear him.  I don't know how this pact will turn, somedays I have less control than others."  Then she carefully traced out the circle and design again, calling forth Paimon.

 
 Spoiler: Binder Check 
DC 20:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Yes, during life it holds possessions, during death it safeguards against those who defy the Ancestors.  Ronove was a remarkable woman, her mind so strong she no longer needed to eat, sleep or even drink.  She is eternally guarding those who did not become Ancestors."   When they reached a secluded area Asha paused.   "I will be communing with Paimon again.  He is excitable, but don't fear him.  I don't know how this pact will turn, somedays I have less control than others."  Then she carefully traced out the circle and design again, calling forth Paimon.

 
 Spoiler: Binder Check 
DC 20: [roll0]
 
 
 

A whirlwind appears in Asha's binding circle like yesterday. First it moves around faster than the eye can catch, but this time it's compelled to stay inside the circle and the binder and her audience are able to see  how it morphs into Paimon, who is  standing  spinning upside down on the tip of the blade in his right arm.  "Oh, hello",  he says, and stops suddenly so he's facing Asha (though still upside down).  "Say, you look familiar. Have we met before?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok goes with Aidan to help him find what he needs.

 
 Spoiler 

 Search (aid another):   (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
 Listen:   (1d20+11)[ 30 ] 
 Spot:   (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 Fang Listen:   (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
 Fang Spot:   (1d20+5)[ 25 ] 
+ Scent
 
Rathgar
After fighting the evil felines, Tutematon almost immediately went into a trance, reflecting on what strangeness had happened.  After what seemed to be only a couple of minutes to him, the centaur snapped out of it.

 "Oh, right, we need to get patched up, don't we!  Alright, who got bit?" 

He then went around and healed all of those who were hurt.

 
 Spoiler 
Using 3 uses of Lesser Vigor, once each on Kanok, Asha, and Taesha.  That'll give each of the targets Fast Healing 1 for 13 rounds.  Since it takes 78 seconds to fully heal, I'll go back and cast on Kanok again later after we RP some more.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 A whirlwind appears in Asha's binding circle like yesterday. First it moves around faster than the eye can catch, but this time it's compelled to stay inside the circle and the binder and her audience are able to see  how it morphs into Paimon, who is  standing  spinning upside down on the tip of the blade in his right arm.  "Oh, hello",  he says, and stops suddenly so he's facing Asha (though still upside down).  "Say, you look familiar. Have we met before?"  
 

 "Yesterday, might help if you are upright.  I wanted to make the same offer as before, you lend me your strength and you rejoin the world for a day." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Yesterday, might help if you are upright.  I wanted to make the same offer as before, you lend me your strength and you rejoin the world for a day."  
 

 "Yesterday for you maybe..",  the spirit answers with a grin, and changes the hand he's balancing on,  "But it's all coming back to me. It's Asha, right? That is a pretty name. Yess... I could help you again today, I had fun last time!"  Paimon starts spinning again and leaps towards the binder, disappearing from sight when he reaches her. Asha can feel how the dancer playfully test her willpower, but this time she's able to keep him from unfluencing her actions or twisting her face. She can also sense the bone blade in her hand, but today it's under her control.

When Asha turns around, she can see that Stiira is once again hiding behind a tree, stealing quick glances at her.

 
 Spoiler 
Will comment on Aidan's search when I know who all want to help.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Yesterday for you maybe..",  the spirit answers with a grin, and changes the hand he's balancing on,  "But it's all coming back to me. It's Asha, right? That is a pretty name. Yess... I could help you again today, I had fun last time!"  Paimon starts spinning again and leaps towards the binder, disappearing from sight when he reaches her. Asha can feel how the dancer playfully test her willpower, but this time she's able to keep him from unfluencing her actions or twisting her face. She can also sense the bone blade in her hand, but today it's under her control.

When Asha turns around, she can see that Stiira is once again hiding behind a tree, stealing quick glances at her.

 
 Spoiler 
Will comment on Aidan's search when I know who all want to help.
 
 
 

Asha flexed her hand, the bone noticeable beneath the skin.   "See Stiira, it isn't magic.  Paimon was a brave man betrayed by those he trusted.  Magical beasts granted him these weapons so he could seek his justice, but unfortunately the men escaped.  But he still helps us now." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha flexed her hand, the bone noticeable beneath the skin.   "See Stiira, it isn't magic.  Paimon was a brave man betrayed by those he trusted.  Magical beasts granted him these weapons so he could seek his justice, but unfortunately the men escaped.  But he still helps us now."  
 

 "But... Aren't they...dead..? How... I mean",  the witch looks really nervous, it seems the risk of angering Asha scares her too,  "The elders of my tribe say... that it's not good.. to call to those who are gone." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "But... Aren't they...dead..? How... I mean",  the witch looks really nervous, it seems the risk of angering Asha scares her too,  "The elders of my tribe say... that it's not good.. to call to those who are gone."  
 

 "Our ancestors rose up to help us fend off the giants invading our lands.  All they have done is good for us, I even hope to become one some day.  Maybe your dead aren't the same, but in my tribe loyalty extends past the walls of death." 
CWater
 "I...",  Stiira hangs her head,  "You have a better fate than us then. For us, to die means losing yourself. The dead envy and wish to harm the living.. Only the goddess of storms and waves can calm their restless souls and keep them where they belong."  The halfling squirms.  "But... it was nice  to know.. your spirits are not... vengeful..   She turns around and sprints back towards the camp.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I...",  Stiira hangs her head,  "You have a better fate than us then. For us, to die means losing yourself. The dead envy and wish to harm the living.. Only the goddess of storms and waves can calm their restless souls and keep them where they belong."  The halfling squirms.  "But... it was nice  to know.. your spirits are not... vengeful..   She turns around and sprints back towards the camp. 
 

Asha raised her hand, about to speak when the little halfling ran off.    Why would they seek vengeance when they can still enter this world?  And who is this goddess and what is a wave?  The Ancestors allow the storms to travel across our land since they show that destruction can breed life, this obsession with gods is strange."   Slowly she followed back to the camp, content with the summoning.
CWater
The party packs their things and continue on their way to the north. They are able to stay in the cover of the forest for now, the valley extends roughly in the same direction they are going. Aidan looks for a suitable tree from which he could take branch to make the bow, but doesn't manage to find one today.

The trees are mostly conifers; spruce and fir are the most numerous. It seems to be a little quieter forest than what the lowlanders are used to, but listening carefully, they can hear rustling and the occasional bird cry. When there is nothing blockin the view to the sky, some can also be seen flying past them. While there is nothing strange about any of them, after a while Kanok notes that one of the larger avians keeps reappering in the sky.

The terrain is mostly easy to wander through, but bushes with sharp thorns are starting to appear here and there. Not so many that the party would have to slow down, but they still need to watch out that they don't get stung into any or have their clothes torn by the spikes.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge(nature) anyone?

Can you describe a little in what formation you are walking? No need for a specific marching order, there's no particular path to follow, so you have space to spread out if you want, but can you state (1) if you're in the front or the back and (2) if you're staying close to the others or wandering about a little?

(I assume Kanok has not changed his spells from yesterday?)
 
CWater
The party continues to stride through the calm forest, the surroundings are so tranquil that it's almost dreamy.

Something white and shapeless approaches them; it is thick mist that snakes around the trees and fills the air.

Soon they can barely see farther than a few feet ahead of them, and everyone who are not standing right next to each other, become blurry shapes that are quickly disappearing out of sight.

It is perfectly quiet.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok growls in annoyance.  This is perfect for some beast to pick us off, one by one.   "Everyone, to me!  Quickly!" 
CWater
The others hear Kanok's shout, though it sounds oddly faint and smothered to them.
Athedia
Asha let the bone spike stab through her hand, wanting some protection in this fog.  Pushing forward she went to the last place she had seen Eldien.
CWater
Everyone can hear a worried high-pitched shout, probably from Stiira, but it is also strangely muffled and they can't make out the words.

Kanok and Aidan see the shape of one of their comrades trying to move closer to them; it's one of the taller humanoids, but they cannot be sure who, and the fog covers it before reaching the hunters.

Asha tries to get to Eldien, but even if she's quite certain she walked in the right direction, the elf is nowhere to be found. Only the white fog surrounds her from all sides.
Athedia
At the yelp Asha froze.   "Stiira?  Stiira where are you?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 At the yelp Asha froze.   "Stiira?  Stiira where are you?"  
 

The binder stops in her tracks to listen, but gets no reply. The total silence feels eerie, especially since she cannot see farther than a few feet around her.

Then, suddenly, a someone speaks to her from the mist.   "She cannot hear you."   It sounds like a child's voice, though it is followed by an odd echo.
Athedia
Asha looked around frantically.   "Who are you?  Why are you doing this to us?" 
CWater
As Kanok and Aidan try to locate the others in the fog, they too hear a foreign voice speak.   "They can't reach you."   It sounds like its coming from above, and when they turn towards it, they can spot a boy child sitting on a lower branch of a nearby tree. His hair is white like clouds and he's dressed in likewise pale white furs, though he appears to be barefoot.

----------------


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked around frantically.   "Who are you?  Why are you doing this to us?"  
 

First there is no reply, but then Asha can hear the sound of grass rustling under small feet. Some of the mist departs, revealing a little girl walking towards her. She's also dressed in white and her hair is of the same colour. When she gets closer, Asha notes that her eyes are very light grey, which makes her small pupils stand out almost unnaturally.   "Sometimes you need to get lost, before you can find your way" ,  she says.
Athedia
 First there is no reply, but then Asha can hear the sound of grass rustling under small feet. Some of the mist departs, revealing a little girl walking towards her. She's also dressed in white and her hair is of the same colour. When she gets closer, Asha notes that her eyes are very light grey, which makes her small pupils stand out almost unnaturally.   "Sometimes you need to get lost, before you can find your way" ,  she says. 

 "Are you like that child that led us out of the dwarf trap earlier, who guided us to the Sage?"   Asha could tell this was no normal girl.  The clean clothes and pure white of her hair were unnatural, combined with the living mist.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok simply stares at the child for a few moments, thinking.  He is in no mood for games or tricks.   ""Aidan, follow me." 

He begins slowly walking in the direction from which he could hear Stiira scream, making sure Aidan and Fang stay close to him.
Etherion
Aidan decides to follow Kanok, making sure to stay within view.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Are you like that child that led us out of the dwarf trap earlier, who guided us to the Sage?"   Asha could tell this was no normal girl.  The clean clothes and pure white of her hair were unnatural, combined with the living mist. 
 

The girl smiles knowingly in return, the kind of sly smile that kids have when they know something adults doesn't. She closes her palms, then opens them again, and small glowing orbs float up from her hands and begin to circle around her head.

  "Come with me. There's something you should see."  

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok simply stares at the child for a few moments, thinking.  He is in no mood for games or tricks.   ""Aidan, follow me." 

He begins slowly walking in the direction from which he could hear Stiira scream, making sure Aidan and Fang stay close to him. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan decides to follow Kanok, making sure to stay within view. 
 

The child stares back, looking slightly shocked, when the men choose to ignore him and walk into the mist.

 
 Spoiler 
Heh. ^^

Oh, Kanok make a Will save.
 
CWater
Kanok wades through the mist with Aidan and Fang following right afer him. Nothing seems to hinder his movement in any way, but he's not able to find any other members of the party, and no one replies to him should he call out to them.

After a while he spots a small figure standing a few feet away, but to his annoyance it's not Stiira, but the child from before. With the difference that he now looks grumpy, like any kid who has been ignored.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stares at the child, his anger barely masked, until the little demon explains itself.
CWater
 Kanok and Aidan 

The white clad boy returns Kanok's stare and for a time they just stand there, daring the other to make a move. The child is finally first to averts his gaze, and then suddenly drops to his knees on the ground. He runs his hand over the grass and soon the surroundings begin to change. Big leafy trees rise from the earth, replacing the smaller conifers that seem to just fade away, and the thorny bushes are likewise replaced with lush shrubs.

One tree rises to tower over all the others, its trunk expanding large enough to fit a big tent. It is a maple tree, but some of the branches grow leaves of other species as well. If Kanok and Aidan ever sat down to listen to their tribes' druids' tell tales of their meetings and ceremonies, they can recognise it as the one that these folks usually gather to. Or perhaps more like an image of it, since despite looking solid, there is an obvious surreal feel to the whole scene.

The child touches the trunk of the great tree, throwing a glance at the two warriors.   "You have heard, right? It wants to corrupt this."  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The girl smiles knowingly in return, the kind of sly smile that kids have when they know something adults doesn't. She closes her palms, then opens them again, and small glowing orbs float up from her hands and begin to circle around her head.

  "Come with me. There's something you should see."   
 

Asha took a deep breath and nodded.    "The Ancestors have been known to send guides."  
Seharvepernfan
Kanok is silent for a long moment, then speaks (relatively) softly,  "Yes."   The "child" is showing this to him and Aidan for a reason; Kanok is sure he will get to it without prodding.
CWater
 Asha 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha took a deep breath and nodded.    "The Ancestors have been known to send guides."   
 

Asha follows the girl to the mist, which seems to withdraw before the childs steps. The floating lights get a dim purple shade, while they continue to spin around her head. While they proceed, Asha notices that Paimon has fallen completely silent in her mind.

After a walk that had to be either long or short, they come to steep rocky hill.   "This way."   Asha's strange guide keeps going forward, the climb not slowing her down at all.

 
 Spoiler 
If Asha decides to follow her, make a Will save.
 

 Kanok and Aidan 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok is silent for a long moment, then speaks (relatively) softly,  "Yes."   The "child" is showing this to him and Aidan for a reason; Kanok is sure he will get to it without prodding. 
 

The child gently strokes the bark of the tree, and for some mysterious reason Kanok gets the feeling that the image of the tree finds that uncomfortable.   "Ten and five days from now",   the boy turns to look at the warriors,   "the druids will gather, to celebrate the peak of spring."   He crouches down and plays with the long grass that grows between the enormous roots.

  "They offer gifts to the tree",   the boy continues, sitting down on the closest root,   "but this time, one of the gifts is cursed."  
Seharvepernfan
 "How is this known to you?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  "How is this known to you?"  
 

  "I have seen, the remnants of the sad creatures, who wish this tree harm. They keep wandering in this world, lost. Not moving on."  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  Asha 


Asha follows the girl to the mist, which seems to withdraw before the childs steps. The floating lights get a dim purple shade, while they continue to spin around her head. While they proceed, Asha notices that Paimon has fallen completely silent in her mind.

After a walk that had to be either long or short, they come to steep rocky hill.   "This way."   Asha's strange guide keeps going forward, the climb not slowing her down at all.

 
 Spoiler 
If Asha decides to follow her, make a Will save.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Will:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 

  Paimon?  Are you there?  Where are we going?   Asha continued to follow, a little more slowly as she attempted the hill.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Will: [roll0]
 

  Paimon?  Are you there?  Where are we going?   Asha continued to follow, a little more slowly as she attempted the hill. 
 

The girl gives no reply. Neither does Paimon, though Asha can still sense his presence in the back of her mind. When she climbs up the hill after the child, she can sense his growing discomfort.
Seharvepernfan
Feeling an urge to be cryptic himself, Kanok mutters,  "Show us." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Feeling an urge to be cryptic himself, Kanok mutters,  "Show us."  
 

The child stands completely still, just staring at Kanok. Finally he replies, with a voice barely louder than a whisper,   "...Are you sure? It is not pleasant."  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The girl gives no reply. Neither does Paimon, though Asha can still sense his presence in the back of her mind. When she climbs up the hill after the child, she can sense his growing discomfort. 
 

Asha stopped, then started backing down the hill and away from the girl.    Paimon, tell me what is wrong.  Your wisdom has saved my people before."  
Rathgar
Tuntematon was distracted by a strange insect that he'd never seen before, and in his focus to expose himself to all things strange, he neglected to stay with the rest of the party.  Then, a fog fell over him, and he was lost.    Oh, no, not again,   the centaur thought to himself.

After a little bit of wandering aimlessly trying to find the others, he could suddenly hear them talking to something.  Following the voices, the centaur finally caught up with the rest of the party, only to discover them speaking with a small child.

 "Woah, sorry, I got lost in the mist!  And now you've found a child?  Who is this, a messenger of the Lady of the Mists?" 
CWater
 Asha 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha stopped, then started backing down the hill and away from the girl.    Paimon, tell me what is wrong.  Your wisdom has saved my people before."   
 

  Nghnn.. Don't like this..   The rest of Paimon's response is scattered and incomprehensible.

The whiteclad child turns around to stare at Asha again.   "You are not coming?"   She frowns, and suddenly stands right in front of the binder. The girl stretches her hand towards Asha and into her chest as easily as if it was made of water.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha make another Will save.
 

 Tuntematon 

Tuntematon is unable to find his comrades or even hear them. However, he gets to direct his question to a third similarly dressed child that he stumbles upon.

The child chuckles,   "Heehee... Lady.."  
Seharvepernfan
Kanok simply nods, slowly and grimly.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  Asha 
  Nghnn.. Don't like this..   The rest of Paimon's response is scattered and incomprehensible.

The whiteclad child turns around to stare at Asha again.   "You are not coming?"   She frowns, and suddenly stands right in front of the binder. The girl stretches her hand towards Asha and into her chest as easily as if it was made of water.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha make another Will save.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Will Save:  (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
 


Asha stared in shock at the hand entering her chest.  This was not right! Why had she followed the child?    Paimon! Come back, please, I don't know what to do!"  
CWater
 Kanok 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok simply nods, slowly and grimly. 
 

The boy child gets up and starts walking towards Kanok, slowly picking up the pace then jumping up to glide through the air the rest of the way, before head-butting the determined warrior in the forehead.

Kanok's vision fills with stars, though he doesn't actually feel any pain from the impact. The lights twist and spin, then his whole world turns upside down.

 
 Spoiler 
To be continued.
 

 Asha 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
Will Save: [roll0]
 


Asha stared in shock at the hand entering her chest.  This was not right! Why had she followed the child?    Paimon! Come back, please, I don't know what to do!"   
 

Asha can feel a force searching, like reaching towards her very soul. Then...   No! NononononoNOno!!! I am free! Let go of me you #£%&amp;€$!! Asha, help-   Paimon's voice is cut off mid-sentence and the ghostly girl draws her hand back out holding what looks like a small whirlwind on her palm. The the child spins around and continues to head uphill once again.

 
 Spoiler: EDIT 
On second thought, I think you actually have the right to a AoO (or something comparable), in case you want to.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  Asha 



Asha can feel a force searching, like reaching towards her very soul. Then...   No! NononononoNOno!!! I am free! Let go of me you #£%&amp;€$!! Asha, help-   Paimon's voice is cut off mid-sentence and the ghostly girl draws her hand back out holding what looks like a small whirlwind on her palm. The the child spins around and continues to head uphill once again.

 
 Spoiler: EDIT 
On second thought, I think you actually have the right to a AoO (or something comparable), in case you want to.
 
 
 

Asha raised her hand prepared to strike with the bone sliver but as she brought her hand down the spike failed to come out.  She stared at her hand and then back at the small whirlwind in the girls hand.  The girl had stolen an Ancestor.  A growl of rage emerged and she set off in pursuit of the girl.
Etherion
Seeing Kanok get knocked unconscious, Aidan pulls out his axes.

 What did you do to him? 
CWater
 Asha 

The binder chases after the girl up the hill, anger making her move faster and ignoring the scratches and srapes she gets on the way from the rocks' sharp edges.

The girl maintains a distance to Asha, but doesn't disappear into the mist either. Finally, they seem to reach a small summit or the like. Despite her rage Asha treads carefully here, for the fog is so thick around her feet that she can't see the ground. The child stops running, but before Asha can catch her she floats up to the air then turns to glance back at the binder from above.

  "Look",   she says, pointing forward. Far ahead of her towers the shape of a dark forbidding mountain. Remembering the view they saw from the cliff yesterday (before they were attacked by a pack of cats) Asha can recognise it as the Fifth.


 Aidan 

 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Seeing Kanok get knocked unconscious, Aidan pulls out his axes.

 What did you do to him?  
 

The child lands gracefully to the grass, to stand next to the comatose warrior.   "Showing him what he wanted to see. ...I hope his mind can handle it",   the boy replies, scratching his chin contemplatively, then looks up and eyes Aidan's axes.

  "Are you going to hit me with those?"  
 Kanok 

He is pulled through the mist faster than he could ever hope to run, probably faster than most birds fly. The fog thickens and thins at random, revealing images of forests, marshes, plains and many other places. All the time the world is filled with nonsensical whispers, screams and sobbing. Kanok catches a glimpse of an orc fighter running through a swamp wildly swinging his greataxe, the corpse of a half-decayed female humanoid walking in a forest and withering plants with a touch, a small gnome child crying alone in the frozen tundra, but he's quickly pulled past them.
Etherion
 If I must. Or if he is harmed. 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  Asha 

The binder chases after the girl up the hill, anger making her move faster and ignoring the scratches and srapes she gets on the way from the rocks' sharp edges.

The girl maintains a distance to Asha, but doesn't disappear into the mist either. Finally, they seem to reach a small summit or the like. Despite her rage Asha treads carefully here, for the fog is so thick around her feet that she can't see the ground. The child stops running, but before Asha can catch her she floats up to the air then turns to glance back at the binder from above.

  "Look",   she says, pointing forward. Far ahead of her towers the shape of a dark forbidding mountain. Remembering the view they saw from the cliff yesterday (before they were attacked by a pack of cats) Asha can recognise it as the Fifth. 
 

 "Could I have Paimon back please?  If you want me to go to the Fifth, I need him.  Please give him back."   Asha couldn't tear her eyes away from the small whirlwind in the girls hands, nervously watching it in case she dropped him.
Rathgar
The centaur prophet waves to the little girl.   "Hello, young possible herald of Mirva, what brings you out into this inhospitable land?" 
CWater
 Aidan 

 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  If I must. Or if he is harmed.  
 

The boy looks at him judgingly, as if trying to weight the credibility of Aidan's words.   "Without question... You all  were  chosen for a reason.."   He forms a cup with his hands and a glowing orb floats up from his hands to float next to his head.   "Sometimes, the world needs hope, not just luck. Remember, you have a chance..."   Aidan's vision also starts to blur.


 Kanok 

The wailing won't stop for a moment, but eventually the movement slows down a little and Kanok finds himself in a forest once again, though everything is still a bit hazed. He's moving at the same speed as an elk that runs next to him, ridden by a humanoid with brown shaggy beard and hair. But Kanok's attention is drawn to the rider's backpack. A grim unfriendly aura is emanating from it, and when he looks at it, it expands in a sinister wave.

Now it's cold, pitch dark. Smells of mould and rotting flesh. Sound of grinding teeth and an ear-splitting scream. Dead eyes, locked in a stare. No air. Can't breathe.


 Asha 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Could I have Paimon back please?  If you want me to go to the Fifth, I need him.  Please give him back."   Asha couldn't tear her eyes away from the small whirlwind in the girls hands, nervously watching it in case she dropped him. 
 

The girl looks back at the mountain. Its shape disrtors unnaturally, like a there is a mirage on the way.   "Your spirits know. Ask them."   She lifts the whirlwind to her eye-level.   "Though they are cowards really. But",   she glances back at Asha,   "what are  you  standing on?"   The fog around Asha's feet has vanished, revealing that there's only empty air under her.

 
 Spoiler 
Ah, one last Will save from Asha, DC 13. Check the outcome from below:

 
 Spoiler: If she makes the save 
 You only need to imagine your footholds. Everything is merely an illusion, you don't truly even require a needle to stand on.  Asha recalls the words Ronove has so many times repeated to her, and for once the world actually seems to comply to her will. Despite there being nothing to support her, she doesn't fall.

The child looks at her impassively, though perhaps a little disappointed. With a small motion of her hand, she throws the whirlwind back to the binder. It passes through her chest and Asha can sense Paimon again, curling up next to her consciusness like a scared puppy. The mist starts to thicken fast, until everything is grey.
 

 
 Spoiler: If she fails it 
Asha doesn't even have time to gasp when she starts to fall down to the dark gorge below. The girl watches her falling, then tosses the whirlwind after her.   "You must be more determined. Or you won't make it. You'll lose yourself."  

Before all light disappears, Asha can feel Paimon catch up with her.
 

 

 Tuntematon 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 The centaur prophet waves to the little girl.   "Hello, young possible herald of Mirva, what brings you out into this inhospitable land?"  
 

The child giggles.   "That's right! I am a herald today."   Orbs of light appear from her palms and start floating away. The child turns to follow them.   "Come, there is a message for you."  

Tuntematon recognizes the connection to Mirva from the child's appearance, though it is a little strange that he sees no holy symbol on her that the servants of gods usually carry. But the surrounding mist and glowing lights are both symbols assosiated with The Silent Guide.

 
 Spoiler 
To speed things up a little, I'm going to assume Tuntematon follows. It seems to me that he would do so, I hope this is okay, though this all sort of gets cramped together.
 


After walking for some time, they reach a small clearing. The child walks to the middle and starts humming an odd and a little eerie tune. Then a small transparent image of a tree appears from the mist and drifts to float next to the child. It is soon followed by an image of a flame and that of a stormcloud. The last one is of a mountain. The child traces a line from each image that are joined together.   "This is important",   she says before dashing off to the fog. The glowing orbs fly ahead of her and reveal a tall humanoid with long silvery hair standing a little farther away.

The child runs towards the tall figure, who grabs her and lifts her up.   "Was that okay?"   The other one laughs,    "Very well, little one. Confusing, nigh impossible to understand."    They turn towards the centaur.    "Guess I could say, that separate events can have a common origin. If that helps."   
  "...You're breaking the rules.  
Chuckle.    "Well, let's hope that not too much.  And would you get rid of this infernal fog?  I think I've lost my other shoe and can't find it... "  
They both fade out of view, soon followed by the misty forest.

--------------------
 All 

Asha blinks and when she opens her eyes again she finds herself lying on wet ground, in the forest they were walking earlier. Sunshine peeks from between the tree branches and any traces of mist are gone. Suddenly Eldien's face appears above her.  "Asha!! You're awake! What... what happened?! You all just... collapsed." 

About ten feet from them Kanok, who is also lying on the forest floor, goes through a series of spasms before also waking up, gasping for breath. Not far from him, Aidan awakens, though more calmly.

Tuntematon regains consciousness slowly, his last vision still lingering. Stiira wakes screaming and hugs herself breaking down crying. Taesha opens her eyes and sits up, looking concerned and thoughtful.

Seems like the previous events were not real, but another message in a dream.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Will Save:  (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha came to gasping in shock.  It took her a few seconds to process that what had happened had not been real.  But it had felt so real.  And the girl had removed...   Paimon! Paimon are you there?    She flexed her hand, letting the bone sliver slice out, breathing in relief when it pierced through her skin and appeared.   "I am... I think I am okay.  But whoever the messenger of these dreams is has disturbed the Ancestors.  The sooner we can get them to leave us, the better."   Letting the bone slide back into her hand she went over to Stiira.   "Hush, it's okay. We are all back now." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts lazily; clearly feeling unwell.   "That is the last time I eat cat." 

He continues to lay down while the others regain their bearings.  Fang lies curled against him, looking worried.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha came to gasping in shock.  It took her a few seconds to process that what had happened had not been real.  But it had felt so real.  And the girl had removed...   Paimon! Paimon are you there?    She flexed her hand, letting the bone sliver slice out, breathing in relief when it pierced through her skin and appeared.   "I am... I think I am okay.  But whoever the messenger of these dreams is has disturbed the Ancestors.  The sooner we can get them to leave us, the better."  
 

 "Dreams? That was..."  Eldien looks surprised. Pulling herself up with the help of her spear, she looks around.  "Is... everyone alright?" 

 Letting the bone slide back into her hand she went over to Stiira.   "Hush, it's okay. We are all back now."  

Stiira's sobs pipe down to hiccups. She tries to wipe her tears.   "Yes.. I'm... fine."  
 
 Spoiler: Your plan? 
So, any change of plans or will you continue north?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok scowls at the sky above him.  One would think the gods could simply tell you what they wanted.   "The Dream-sender has spoken:  we go to the tree."   He continues to lie on the ground, scratching Fang's head to calm him.  That dream was harrowing; the caveman would not mind a rest.
Athedia
Asha looked puzzled.  "What tree?  We must head to the mountain, to the Fifth.  Answers lie in that direction." 
Rathgar
Tuntematon yawns and gets up.   "Well, that was a good sleep.  The strangest thing happened, too.  I met a little girl who could make things in the sky.  I believe it may be a strange sign from Tieteir, sister of Anlin.  The child made a mirage of a tree, which then turned into a flame, which then turned into a mountain.  Then a big person who was her friend said that they all had the same origin.  Don't quite know what all that means, though.  Yet, at least." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok finally sits up, collecting his spear and nodding at Asha,  "We have little time.  The fifth is not far out of the way, but we cannot linger."   He turns to regard Tunta,  "Mine warned of a false druid bringing death to the tree, whom we must stop." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Tuntematon yawns and gets up.   "Well, that was a good sleep.  The strangest thing happened, too.  I met a little girl who could make things in the sky.  I believe it may be a strange sign from Tieteir, sister of Anlin.  The child made a mirage of a tree, which then turned into a flame, which then turned into a mountain.  Then a big person who was her friend said that they all had the same origin.  Don't quite know what all that means, though.  Yet, at least."  
 

 "If they share an origin it may be the evil in the mountain. Stiira, what did you see?" 
CWater
 "I... There was a kid, and then... I was by the coast, the sea was angry. Then... earth began to crack and  all trees and grass... died. "  Stiira shudders.  "The child was saying something, maybe, I don't know...  I ran. "  The halfling wraps her hands around herself and stares at the ground.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I... There was a kid, and then... I was by the coast, the sea was angry. Then... earth began to crack and  all trees and grass... died. "  Stiira shudders.  "The child was saying something, maybe, I don't know...  I ran. "  The halfling wraps her hands around herself and stares at the ground. 
 

Asha put a hand on Stiirra's shoulder.   "That isn't a bad thing.  You are small, hiding and running is what mice and other small things do.  Bears like Kanok can stay and fight." 
CWater
 "! ...I don't  want to be a mouse. "  Stiira pouts.

The party gathers to discuss what they should do next and eventually decide that they'll change their route and head for the Fiery through the Fifth mountain, instead of circling around it. Eldien protest a little, insisting that the place is cursed and dangerous, but gives up when she realises that she cannot change their minds. With the help of the sun and the mountains looming around them, the rangers determine the new direction and the party continues their journey.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok and Aidan have high enough Survival modifiers to figure out the right direction by taking 10 in these surroundings.
 


Soon enough, it starts to get dark and the party stops to camp for the night, building their shelter next to some of the taller trees for additional cover. Some might feel a little uneasy about sleeping after the weird dream sequence earlier in the day, but in the end the night passes peacefully, and they wake to a bright morning.

The party keeps heading west the next day and while they notice how the're going uphill again it is not until evening that they see the treeline, which is very abrupt on this side of the forest. Peeking past the last trees the wanderers can see the infamous mountain they'll soon be climbing. It doesn't look particularly threatening, though there seems to be a slightly ominous feel in the air around here. But considering all the warnings and rumours they've heard, it could be just an illusion of the mind. Eldien is obviously nervous about being so close to the place she has been taught to avoid most of her life.

Still, cursed or not, it might be better to wait 'til morning before starting the climb.

 
 Spoiler 
Ok, to clarify: You camped for  one night , had  one uneventful day  of travel* and are now about to  rest again . (Or so I assume, do tell me if you'd like to do something else.🙂)

Any preferences for watch order? If not, I'll set it randomly by rolling.

*Aidan can Search for bow materials again, if he likes and others can help him too. And if anyone wants to make a Survival check to see if they can hunt anything, you're free to do that. (You know you'll be leaving the forest soon for a while.)
You're trying to keep up a good travelling pace to stay on 'schedule', so taking 10 is not possible this time. Please note if the check is an Aid Another.
 
Etherion
While travelling, Aidan attempted to find materials to make a bow.

 
 Spoiler: search check 
 (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok goes off to hunt with Fang while the others make camp.

 
 Spoiler 
 Survival:   (1d20+14)[ 17 ] 
 
CWater
The forest the party passes through doesn't unfortunately seem to have suitable branches for a bow. Kanok manages to catch some birds, though they are not quite enough to feed everyone and they also have to eat a few portions of their supplies.

After setting up camp the travellers set up a watch and go to sleep. Despite the eerie atmosphere, most of the night passes without incident. But in the early hours, when the sun has just barely climbed up from the horizon, those that are already awake can spot something odd coming down from the mountain.

 
 Spoiler 
 Spot checks  from those that are early birds.

Let's see if these folks are up:
Stiira
Awake?:  (1d3)[ 2 ] , if so Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Eldien
Awake?:  (1d3)[ 2 ] , if so Spot:  (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
Taesha
Awake?:  (1d3)[ 2 ] , if so Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ] 
1 = up, 2 = awake but not gotten up (no Spot check), 3 = still asleep.
 
You don't need to roll for this if you don't want to,  you're free to choose what your character is doing. I roll because I think it's fun.🙂

EDIT: Heh, that's amusing.
 


Not wanting to get up yet, Stiira wraps her cloak tighter around herself and closes her eyes again for one more moment of sleep.
Athedia
Asha lay on her back staring up at the sky.  It looked so nice, the tint of the new sun coloring so slightly.  Nothing gave away the chaos that her dreams had fortold.
CWater
 
 Spoiler: ?! 
What is this, a post!
 


The peace of the morning is suddenly broken when Fang starts barking loudly. In the otherwise completely silent forest the sound feels unnaturally loud.

 
 Spoiler: Of course.. 
Initiative! For those that were awake. Since while Fang might wake those asleep, they are still automatically in the end of initiative.

Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Eldien:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
???:  (1d20)[ 15 ] 

Alright, Asha, Stiira and Eldien get a turn.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Brown = Trees
Orange-ish = Shelter
Dark Red = Remains of the campfire, not currently burning

 
 
CWater
Stiira scrambles up to a sitting position.  "What.. what's with him?"  she asks in a groggy voice.

Eldien jerks up too, glancing around wildly.  "I... don't see anything wrong." 
CWater
Eldien has barely finished the sentence when something catches her eye. She points it to the party, and through the simple covers of their shelter, they can see a shadow on the ground moving towards the camp. Oddly enough though, they don't see anything that could be  casting  it. Still, it uh glides(?) closer fast, and more similiar shadows also come to view, also approaching quickly.

Whatever they are, it's clear Fang doesn't like them, for he barks and growls. The first one stops about ten feet from the camp and then a dark shapeless mass begins to rise from the shadowed grass. It twists and squirms a moment, until it settles on a shape that resembles a dog, or maybe a wolf.

 
 Spoiler: Map... 
 ...will be updated when I get home.  See below. The shadow wolf is in square R9, and the closest other shadow is currently in U6. The latter still looks like a normal shadow on the ground (except that it has no source of course).

 Party's turn.  Note that standing up is a move action.

EDIT: Map
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19
Position: O6 

The centaur gets up and gets ready for any potential fight.   "What strangeness besets us so early in the morning?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Notes: Reduced armor class because I didn't sleep in armor.

Actions:
Move Action: Stand up
Move Action: Draw sling
Standard Action: Ready sling to attack attacker (if both standing and drawing the sling can be combined into one action)

Rolls to Potentially Identify the Interlopers:
 Spot:   (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
 Listen:   (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
 Knowledge (Arcana):   (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
 Knowledge (Nature):   (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
 Knowledge (Religion):   (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
 
Etherion
Awoken by the loud noises, Aiden stands up and pulls out his bow, and seeing the shadow wolf he fires an arrow at it.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move: Stand and draw bow
Standard: Shoot the wolf
 (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha pushed herself upright, cursing the attack.  She could feel the emptiness inside her, the vestige had left in her sleep leaving her without defenses.
CWater
Stiira glances at Asha, noticing her worry. She hesitates for a moment, but then reaches towards her, casting a spell. Upon its completion harp black thorns sprout out from Asha's skin and clothing.
 "Y-you use magic to shape the body yourself..",  she stutters,  "Thought  you wouldn't mind ." 
 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Urchin's Spines.

 
 Originally Posted by Stormwrack 
 An opponent who grapples the subject or strikes it with a natural weapon takes 1d3 of piercing damage from the spines... ... a DC 13 Fortitude save or take initial and secondary damage of 1d2 Dexterity. 
 


 


Kanok stands up, spear and shield in hand, and Taesha hastily gets up too and draws her claws, ready to strike anything that attacks her. Eldien clutches her spear tightly, dragging herself up.


Aidan's arrow hits the shadow wolf right in the neck and it recoils, clearly feeling the impact. It lowers its neck and looks like its growling at him, but no sound comes out. Then the creature charges at the ranger, trying to bite him.
Before it reaches the shelter, Tuntematon flings a bullet from his sling at it.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Took the liberty of rolling for the readied action to speed things up.
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d64+1)[ 37 ]  Oops, messed that one up. ^^' But it is a miss, so no reroll is needed.
 

 
 Spoiler: Wolf's attack 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 

The centaur's attack misses, but the wolf is distracted enough so Aidan is also able to evade its jaws.

Dark matter rises from the area of the second shadow, also taking the form of wolf. Two more of them glide closer and go through similiar transformations, but they end up as wolverines. A fifth one also comes to view, but hasn't taken a form yet.

Tuntematon doesn't remember anything about this kind of beings, though what he can tell, they mimic the shape and movement of real animals well.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh1 &amp; Sh2 look like wolves.
Sh3 &amp; Sh4 look like wolverines.
Sh5 is still a flat shadow.

 
 
Etherion
Aidan puts away his bow and pulls out his axes.
 
 Spoiler: undefined 
I REALLY wish one of those two things were a free action. Oh well.
 
Athedia
Asha nodded to Stirra, the spines felt odd and she didn't understand the witches magic, but it may deter these creatures bites.  She grabbed up Fear and extended it to the longest it could reach, ready to attack any of the creatures that ventured to attack her.

 
 Spoiler 
Ready an action with a longspear against a charge.  Longspear deals double damage if they charge, also since I didn't move this turn as part of the readied action during an attack I will take a 5ft step away from the charge.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok squints at the shadows as they approach and take form; he doesn't know what kind of sorcery this is, and he does not approve.  They appear to be creatures that he is intimately familiar with, but he suspects they are not.  It matters little; he rushes forward to attack all the same.  His course takes him through the bushes and around a large tree, to jab at the backside of the nearest wolf shadow.

While doing so, he shouts for Fang to attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok moves into Q8, flanking the first wolf with Tunta (his hooves count as weapons, so he should threaten).

 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 28 ] [
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+10)[ 30 ] [
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
+2 damage if these are considered animals

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 

Edit:  forgot my flanking bonus, not that it matters.
 
Seharvepernfan
Fang, hearing Kanok's call, likewise rushes forward to chomp down on the nearest foe.

 
 Spoiler 

Fang moves to the nearest standing enemy and bites.
 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 rounds remaining)
Initial Position O6, Ending Position N6 
 "Woah, these wolves aren't the normal wolves I have seen before!  I just wish some of the strange things in these woods wanted to talk instead of eat us!"   With that, the centaur backed up and gave a prayer, causing three of his sling stones to suddenly begin to have glowing black stripes.  At the end of the prayer, he exclaimed the power word,  "Hämärtää" , and his outline became indistinct once more.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: 5 ft. step back
Standard Action: Cast Magic Stone on three sling stones
Quick Action: Activate armor's Blurred effect
 
CWater
Kanok strikes the shadow wolf from behind, piercing a vital organ (or where one would be were this a normal animal). The creature freezes and then its form is ripped to pieces that quickly fade away, leaving no trace left of it. Only Aidan's arrow that got stuck in its neck earlier, falls to the ground, showing no sign that it was ever used. There's no blood on Kanok's spear either.

Fang runs forward and sinks his teeth to one of the wolverines, trying to push it out of balance.
 
 Spoiler: Opposed Trip 
 (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
 

The bite leaves a mark on the shadow's skin, but it stands its ground.

 
 Spoiler: Rangers 
Yes, these shadows count as animals for Favoured Enemy to work against them, even if their type is not actually Animal.
So you may apply the +2 to damage.
 
CWater
The second shadow wolf doesn't seem to care about the other's destruction, but leaps towards Taesha.
Right before the creature's jaws reach her, the warrior slashes it with her claws.

 
 Spoiler: Readied attack 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Wolf's attack 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

Her claws hit the shadow wolf in the nose, and it fails to bite her.

The wolverine that Fand bit retaliates by clawing and biting him wildly.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 3 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-1)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

But the nimble dog evades all its attempts.

The other shadow with the same appearance runs towards the other side of the camp.

The fifth shadow goes through the transformation, becoming another wolf. A sixth shadow comes to the party's view and also takes a wolf's form, and from his position Fang can see a seventh one approach.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh2, Sh5 and Sh6 are wolves.
Sh3 and Sh4 are wolverines.
Sh7 has no shape yet.

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Puzzled (but not surprised) by the sudden vanishing of his enemy, Kanok rushes across the forest floor to aid his beleaguered dog.  Wolverine's are the fiercest of foes and not to be underestimated; Fang is outmatched.  Kanok has great respect for these animals, but these are pale copies undoubtedly summoned through some evil witchery, and do not deserve his admiration.  And so, he again skewers the thing through with his spear, without a touch of regret.

Fang, oblivious to all of this, continues to snap and tear at the unnatural creature.

 
 Spoiler 

 
 Spoiler: But first, a question: 
Do the green squares inhibit movement in any way?  If so, is it considered difficult terrain?  If it is, Kanok gets a +2 bonus to hit against the animals if they are affected by the terrain.  If the green squares do inhibit movement and aren't considered difficult terrain, then kanok cannot move as far this round and simply moves close enough to attack (without a flanking bonus).
 

 
 Spoiler: Kanok's move: 
 
 

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
*flanking bonus added

If Kanok hits and drops the wolverine, Fang moves on to attack SH6.  If not, he continues to attack Sh3 (flanking bonus not added in).

 Bite:   [roll]1d20+5[roll]
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   [roll]1d20+5[roll]
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan moves towards one of the shadows, and hits it with an axe.
 
 Spoiler: actions 
move: move to M10
Attack shadow thing:
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Terrain 
The green is normal forest floor, doesn't hinder movement for anything used to it. (Including humanoids.🙂)
Brown squares are trees as before.
 


Kanok circles around the shadow, but doesn't manage to land a hit on his first attack. Fang is not lucky either.

Aidan approaches the other wolverine, but the creature avoids his axe and bares its claws.
CWater
Asha keeps her spear ready for any creatures that would charge her. Eldien does the same, leaning to one of the shelter's supports to keep her balance.

Taesha strikes the wolf with her claws, then quickly backs away, trying to gain some distance to the creature to make a stronger attack. When she retreats, the wolf attempts to bite her.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Taesha:
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 

Wolf's AoO:
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

Mimicking how Taesha used to fight when MrE was still playing.
 


Her hasty attack misses the shadow animal, who manages to wound her slightly, though the gem she carries lessens the damage to a mere scratch.
CWater
Stiira also moves away from the shelter, but to the other direction. Once she has a clear shot, the witch releases a sphere of blue energy from her palms towards the shadow wolf.

 
 Spoiler: Spell &amp; other 
Orb of Cold at Sh2.
Ranged touch attack:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (2d8)[ 10 ] 

Also, I have totally forgotten that Stiira has Dodge. Really my memory.. *shakes head*
Anyway, designating  Sh2  Sh5 as the dodge target.
 


The burst of cold freezes the creature that was already wounded, and it shatters to small pieces that also disappear quickly.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: To keep combat moving... 
I'll go for Tuntematon this round. I assume he'll use one of the stones he enchanted last round.

I hope this is okay.
 


Tuntematon slings a magically enchanted stone at the shadow wolf closest to him.
 
 Spoiler: Attacking Sh5 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 


The stone scratches the creature on the side, ripping off some of the surface.
CWater
The first shadow wolverine continues its furious attack on Fang.

 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 4 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-1)[ 0 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

Lucky Fang.😛
 

But it is unable to land a single hit on the dog.
---
The other creature with the same shape slashes at Aidan.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 6 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 3 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-1)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 

One of its claws opens a cut on the ranger's shoulder. It feels cold.
---
The shadow wolf doesn't seem to care about the stone flung at it, but continues to move past the camp and charges at Stiira.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 

And bites the small witch's left arm before she has time to react and drags her screaming to the ground.
---
The other wolf circles around the warrior and the dog fighting the wolverine, and lunges at Taesha.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

It manages to surprise the warrior and push her to the ground.
---
The seventh shadow moves closer, then rises up from the ground like the others and solidifies to a black bear. An eight shadow follows it, this one covering a bigger area of the forest floor.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh5 and Sh6 are wolves.
Sh3 and Sh4 are wolverines.
Sh7 is a black bear.
Sh8 has no shape.

Stiira and Taesha are prone.

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok continues his assault on the umbral wolverine, again thrusting his spear into it's hide.  Fang also continues to attack the nearest standing creature.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 10 ] 

If Kanok drops the wolverine, he will then move to O3.  If he does not, he will delay his move until after Fang attacks, to see if the dog can finish the fight.  If Fang does not drop the wolverine, Kanok will move anyway.

 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+5)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
*flanking bonus not added

 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok stabs the shadow wolverine with his spear and Fang assists in the fight, biting off a piece of the creature. But while it seems wounded, it still doesn't perish.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm a little confused, but I understand that Fang got the flank bonus too? Thanks to it, his attack hits too.
 
CWater
Still, the warrior turns around and runs towards Stiira, who is threatened by a wolf. The shadow wolverine takes advantage of his hasty movement and swings its claws at him, tearing red stripes to Kanok's back. There is an odd coldness about the creatures touch.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
And of course I forgot the AoO rolls from the previous post. :P

Claw:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 5 ] 
 
Etherion
Adian swings both of his axes at the shadow that struck him.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
 (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Initial Position O6, Ending Position N6 
 "It's the shadow of a bear, the most fearsome creature in the woods!  I'll do what I can to it!"   With that, the centaur lets loose the second of his magical stones at the faux-beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard: Attack the shadow of the Bear

Rolls:
 Attack:   (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 21 ] 
 Damage (If Not Undead):   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Not Undead &amp; If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 Damage (If Undead):   (2d6+2)[ 12 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha ran toward Stirra, attacking the beast terrorizing the little witch.  As she attacked she commanded the spear to shorten slightly, allowing her to close the distance.

 
 Spoiler: Asha 

Attack: (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Asha's spear hits the shadow wolf in the side. Stiira crawls away from the creature, though when she does so it bites her again.
 
 Spoiler: AoO 
She's prone, so this is a move action, not a 5ft. step, thus the AoO. Her AC is 13 against the wolf.

Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

The witch screams in pain, but turns around to shoot a blue orb from her hands at the creature.
 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Orb of Cold
Ranged touch:  (1d20+2)[ 16 ]  (-4 for being prone included)
Damage:  (2d8)[ 13 ] 
 

The shadow freezes and then shatters like the others, leaving no traces of its existence.

Not caring about the wolf threatening her, Taesha jumps up quickly and rapidly slashes with her claws, ripping the shadow to pieces.
 
 Spoiler: AoO and Attack 
Sh6 Wolf's AoO, Taesha's AC is 11.
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
Taesha take 1 damage. (DR 3)

Taesha:
Using Wolf Fang Strike to get two attacks.
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 12 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
One of Aidan's attacks hit, wounding the shadow wolverine, but it doesn't seem to even notice as it keeps attacking the ranger with its claws and teeth.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1: (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 3 ] 

Claw2: (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 5 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-1)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 

But the ranger is too fast for it.

The other wolverine also continues to fight Fang, despite its injuries.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1: (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 3 ] 

Claw2: (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-1)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 

And this time, its claw hits the dog, though the cut is not very deep.


Tuntematon's rock misses the shadow bear, but manages to get its attention, and the creature runs towards him and crashes to their shelter. Stomping on their spread bedrolls, it rises its big paw to attack.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 7 ] 
Blur miss rolled OOC.
 

Fortunately for the centaur, it is tricked by his armour's magic and its claws reach only air.


The larger shadow rises up from the ground and also takes the form of a bear, though a significantly bigger one than the first one. It moves around a few trees to get closer.

There's also some kind of dark mass several tens of feet behind it, though it's hard to get a good look past all the trees.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh3 and Sh4 are wolverines.
Sh7 looks like a black bear.
Sh8 has the build of a brown bear. (Though it is still shadowy black)

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Noticing the dark mass in the distance, Kanok suppresses the urge to go and rip the weed out at the root.  Fang is still up one-on-one with the wolverine, and Taesha is facing down a large bear; he will not leave them without his aid.  Getting angrier by the second, Kanok rushes through the trees to help his friends.

 
 Spoiler 
Since he delayed last time, Fang goes first.

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 7 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 

If Fang drops or trips the wolverine, Kanok will move to P6 and attack the bear menacing Tunta.  If not, he will move to U6 (I just realized that because he is not wearing armor, his speed is 50) and attack the wolverine.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 

Also, due to close-quarters fighting, if Kanok is hit by a foe with the Improved Grab ability, he gets an AoO regardless, and any damage dealt by him counts as a bonus to the anti-grapple roll.
 
CWater
Kanok rushes to aid his dog, circling around the wolverine and thrusting his spear through the back of its head, which causes the shadow to vanish.
Etherion
Aiden swings at the shadow in front of him.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 (1d8+3)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 (1d6+2)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aiden swings at the shadow in front of him.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
 
 
 

Both of his attacks hit the creature, though are not lethal enough to end its existence.
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 round remaining)
Initial Position N6, Ending Position M7 

Narrowly dodging the shadow bear, the centaur backs up, launching the last of his strange magical stones.  Noticing his armor's magic starting to fade, Tuntematon reactivated it in the form of a taunt at the shadow bear.   "Hämärtää, hämärtää I say!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: 5 ft. step to M7
Quick Action: Activate Blurred effect on armor
Standard Action: Attack smaller shadow bear

 Attack Roll:   (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 Damage (If Not Undead):   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 Damage (If Undead):   (2d6+2)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
The stone scratches the bear, but doesn't seemed to have stronger effect than usual.
 
 Spoiler 
They are not undead, sorry.
 


Taesha moves a few steps around a tree to gain more distance to the bigger bear, then quickly sprints towards it and jumps up to the air slashing with her claws.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Moves to N9, then runs and jumps to attack. Autopasses the DC 20.

Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 24 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 13 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 15 ] 

Taesha's AC is 13 until her next turn.
 

She hits the creature with her right hand and left foot, leaving deep cuts on its shadowy form.

Eldien holds up her spear and tries to strike the smaller bear.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Since she has positioned herself next to the shelter's support, I'll say she remains standing. Otherwise I'd roll Balance for her.

Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 

The weapon finds its mark, but has little strength behind it.

Asha moves to attack the same shadow, but the it evades her attempt.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 


Clutching her wounded arm with her other hand, Stiira gets up and moves closer to the battle as well.
CWater
The wounded shadow wolverine continues its fight with Aidan.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 4 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 5 ] 

Bite:
Attack:  (1d20-1)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

Sharp teeth sink to the ranger's side.

The smaller bear turns its attention from Tuntematon to Eldien and does its best to tear her to shreds.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 5 ] 

Bite:
Attack:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 3 ] 

13 damage in total, Eldien is down to 1 HP.
 

Its sharp claws cut severe wounds to the elf's chest.

The larger shadow bear stands up to two feet and swings its great paws at Taesha.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw1:
Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 10 ] 

Claw2:
Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 9 ] 

Bite:
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 6 ] 

DR3 from the diamond, so 16 damage in total.
 

The warrior is hit hard by the attack, though her magical jewel protects her from some of the damage.

The dark mass farther away drifts a little closer and two smaller shadows diverge from it and approach the party noticeably faster. About ten feet away from Kanok they stop to take solid forms. One becomes a shadow elf with a longbow, the other an orc with a great two-handed axe.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh4 is a wolverine,
Sh7 a black bear,
Sh8 a brown bear,
Sh9 and elf,
Sh10 an orc and
the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.

 
 
Seharvepernfan
Just as he was about to turn and move into a flanking position with Taesha against the bear, he sees the shadows take the shape of a tusked-reaver and an elf.  Though he hears the screams and grunts of pain behind him, the sight of a tribal enemy (though false) and the proximity of the shadow-spewing abomination is too much for Kanok to ignore.  The others will just have to take care of themselves.

Thrusting his spear in the direction of the umbral elf, Kanok turns and roars back to Fang,  "ATTACK!!!" , then immediately hurls himself at the axe-wielding tusker, spear and shield raised, roaring a primal war cry.

 
 Spoiler 
Question; would Fang wait for a new command or immediately move on to a new enemy on his own?  If he waits, then he simply delays until Kanok successfully commands him.  Otherwise, he would likely move straight to the brown bear and attack, with Kanok going after, then respond to Kanok's command next turn (if Kanok was successful).

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 

Kanok, after attempting to handle Fang, rages and charges the orc.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+14)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+14)[ 33 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 

AC is 9 for the rest of the round.
 
Athedia
Asha struck at the bear again.   "Eldien, is this what the tribes around here feared?" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Crit Confirm if yes then x3
 (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler: DaggerTurn 
Aiden notices the black bear shadow attacking his companions, and takes a step back and turns to face the creature. As he turns, he drops an axe, and quickly pulls his knife from it's sheath and launches it at the shadow attacking Eldien.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5 ft step to N9
 (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 
Can't remember the penalty of throwing past range increment, but I'm 5 ft over, so just minus the proper amount from the roll.
 

 

 
 Spoiler: NoDaggerTurn 
Aiden strikes again at the shadow in front of him.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
 (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
 

 
CWater
Kanok and Fang pass by each other as they charge the new enemies, and both are succesfull in their attacks.
Asha thrust Fear to the smaller shadow bear, and Aidan finishes off the wolverine.

Taesha swings her claws at the bear one more time before she backs away again.
 
 Spoiler: Attack and AoO 
Taesha, AC 15 now
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 

Bear's AoO
Claw:  (1d20+11)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 16 ] 
 

The warrior strikes true, but the shadow also takes advantage of her hurry and cuts a deep bleeding wound to her thigh.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha struck at the bear again.   "Eldien, is this what the tribes around here feared?"  
 

 "M-maybe, there are tales of shadows that move by themselves and...",  the sentence is cut of by a cough of blood. Holding her chest Eldien moves out of the shadow bear's reach.

Having used all the stones he enchanted so far, Tuntematon moves to smack the bear with his club.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 


Stiira touches the pearl in her hair and concentrates on recalling one of her used spells. When she can feel it again, she directs her palms at the larger bear.
 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Recalled Lesser Orb of Cold
Ranged touch:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (2d8)[ 7 ] 
 


Its skin gets covered in frost, but it doesn't disappear.
CWater
The smaller shadow bear turns to Asha, swinging wildly with its claws.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 7 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+1)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 7 ] 
 

Decorating the binder with several bleeding cuts.

The larger bear chases after Taesha.
 
 Spoiler: Attack and note 
Claw:  (1d20+11)[ 28 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 9 ] 
 

The previous wound is slowing her down, and she can't dodge the huge paw in time. It smacks her hard on the head, leaving her barely conscious.

The elf tripped over by Fang stands up and shoots one arrow at Stiira.
 
 Spoiler 

Arrow1:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 2 ] 

The second didn't happen, got tripped so no full attack.
 
Arrow2:  (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 8 ]  
 

The halfling yanks back swiftly, out of the arrows path.

The orc opens his mouth wide as if to answer Kanok's war cry, though no sound comes out. But the greataxe flies through the air towards the warriori in a powerful swing.
 
 Spoiler: Power attack 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+7)[ 10 ] 
 

A new wound opens in the barbarians shoulder.

Two more pieces of shadow leave the huge concentration of dark matter and become two more wolves.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh7 a black bear,
Sh8 a brown bear,
Sh9 an elf,
Sh10 an orc,
Sh11 and Sh12 are wolves (yes, again) and
the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
 
 
Athedia
Asha looked back at the injuried Eldien and then shrinking her spear went to the elf woman's aid.  Slinging her arm around the woman she started to help her away while activating her belt.

 
 Spoiler: Belt of Healing 
Use 1 charge:  (2d8)[ 8 ] 
 

 "Run! We can't stay here!" 
Etherion
Aiden swings at the creature attacking Taesha.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
[roll]1d20+4[roll]
 (2d8+4)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
 (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19, Blurred (1 round remaining)
Position N6 

The centaur continues to try to convince the shadowy bear to stop attacking the helpless the main way he can think of: hitting it as hard as he can with a big stick.   "Back off, you conglomeration of dark stuff!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Attack Sh7 with club.

Rolls:
 Attack Roll:   (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Growling away the pain, Kanok furiously jabs forward, impaling the orc with his spear.  Meanwhile, Fang unrelentingly rips and tears at he elf bowman, giving him little chance to target the others further on.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 27 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
if critical:

 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Aidan and Tuntematon's attacks miss. Kanok wounds the shadow orc a second time.

The worst of Eldien's wounds close with Asha's healing.  "Thank you",  the elf says as her breathing eases,  "These things... some of our old tales of this mountain speak of live shadows that could consume any creature in their path." 

Badly wounded, but not willing to give up, Taesha takes a step to the left and slashes the larger bear one more time.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack: (1d20+7)[ 15 ]  +2, forgot the flank.
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 13 ] 
 

She strikes true and the shadow vanishes.

Stiira takes out her sling and throws a stone at the smaller bear.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack: (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 1 ] 

Ok, the shadow was at 1 HP, but that is still a very anticlimatic way to go.
 

Filled with wounds, the second bear shadow fades away too.
CWater
The shadow orc swings his axe at Kanok again, tearing a new cut to his flesh.

 
 Spoiler: Power attack 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d12+7)[ 14 ] 
 


The one that has the shape of an elf takes a step away from Fang and shoots two arrows at him.
 
 Spoiler: Rapid shot 
Arrow1:  (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 8 ] 

Arrow2:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 4 ] 
 

The nimble dog dodges them both.

The wolves circle around the combatants and approach the rest of party from different sides. The mass of darkness moves a little closer too, and two more pieces diverge from it. They follow the wolves and even glide past them, though for now, they remain as shadows on the forest floor.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh9 is an elf,
Sh10 an orc,
Sh11 and Sh12 are wolves,
Sh13 and Sh14 have no shape and
the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
 
 
Athedia
 "Run! We can't hold against these things!"   Asha called out to the group as she helped Eldien away.
Seharvepernfan
His clarity blurred by his fury, Kanok continues his assault against the shadow orc with the intention of going after the shadowy mass next.  Fang likewise jumps at the bowman, trying to get a hold and bring it down.


 
 Spoiler 
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 30 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 30 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 

If he brings down the orc, he will move up to the shadowy mass.

 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Run! We can't hold against these things!"   Asha called out to the group as she helped Eldien away. 
 

 "How can we get away?",  Eldien asks glancing around with a scared look,  It looks like they're trying to surround us, and they move fast. And ...I'm slow." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 His clarity blurred by his fury, Kanok continues his assault against the shadow orc with the intention of going after the shadowy mass next.  Fang likewise jumps at the bowman, trying to get a hold and bring it down.


 
 Spoiler 
 Shortspear:   (1d20+13)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (2d8+8)[ 13 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
 Damage:   (2d8+8)[ 17 ] 

If he brings down the orc, he will move up to the shadowy mass.

 Bite:   [roll4]
 Damage:   [roll5]
if critical:
 Bite:   [roll6]
 Damage:   [roll7]

 Trip:   [roll8]
 
 
 

The shadow elf evades Fang's attack, but the orc gets stabbed again by Kanok's spear.

 "Kanok!"  Taesha shouts and runs forward. Her wounds make any movement painful and the warrior knows she's hardly in any condition to fight anymore, so she picks the gem the earth prophet gave and crushes it in her palm.

A large being made of solid rock appears in front of her. It's roughly the shape of a humanoid, though otherwise its appearance is far from any natural creature. It steps forward and smacks the orc with its huge fists.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Slam1:  (1d20+13)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 13 ] 

Slam2:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 17 ] 
 

Its attack is clumsy, but the wounded shadow is too slow to move and one of the blows smacks it hard and it fades away.

 "What are you planning to do? Asha says we should run!" 
 
 Spoiler: Map, etc. 
Aidan, Tuntematon, Stiira, Asha and Eldien still have a turn.

 
 
Etherion
Aiden moves to attack yet another shadow.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to O16
Attack S12
 (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19
Initial Position N11, Ending Position V12 

Now that there isn't a pressing danger on the wounded elf, Tuntematon pulls out his magical reindeer antler and runs up to the wounded warrior and applies some healing to him.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Draw magic wand while moving 40 ft. to position V12
Standard Action: Use wand charge to cast Cure Light Wounds on Kanok

Rolls:
 Cure Minor Wounds:   (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
The shadow elf again takes a step away from Fang and continues to shoot arrows at him.
 
 Spoiler: Rapid Shot 
Arrow1:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 3 ] 

Arrow2:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 3 ] 
 

One arrow flies harmlessly to the forest, but the other hits the dog in the chest, then vanishes from the wound.

One of the shadow wolves chases after Asha and Eldien, but doesn't catch up with them to attack just yet.

The other wolf attacks Aidan.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
 

But the ranger evades it.

A shadow on the ground moves to get behind Aidan, then rises up to take the shape of a large cat. Another shadow circles around Asha and Eldien and assumes a similar form.

The dark mass drifts to the left and lets loose two more shadows. The smaller becomes another elf, armed with an axe and dagger. The bigger moves closer to the elemental and transforms into a large bear.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh9 is an elf with a bow,
Sh15 an elf with two weapons,
Sh11 and Sh12 are wolves,
Sh13 and Sh14 big cats,
Sh16 a large bear
and the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
The black square is its darkest spot.
 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: NOTE!! 
This should have come before the post above.
 


Aidan deals a powerful blow to the shadow wolf, almost pushing it out of balance.

Stiira concentrates on a new spell and long claws made of sand appear on her right hand.

Asha helps Eldien to move away from the enemies.
Etherion
Aiden swings once more at the wolf shadow.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 16 ] 
 (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Feeling a little emboldened by the warm rush of healing magic, Kanok spins to face the opposite direction and runs, roaring  "SLAY IT!!!"   He veers around his dog and the shadowy bowman, runs wide around a large tree, then suddenly leaps the last stretch, hurling himself at the mass of darkness and plunging his spear into it's core.

Fang, angered from his new wound, redoubles his efforts to bring down the elf who stings from afar.

 
 Spoiler 

Kanok moves like so:   
 Spoiler: movement 
 
 

The red is his normal move, the blue is a  sudden leap .

 Jump:   (1d20+20)[ 39 ] 
 Stones Bones  - if attack is successful, Kanok gains DR 5/- until his next turn.
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 27 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 12 ] 
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
if critical:
 Bite:   (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 Trip:   (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aiden swings once more at the wolf shadow.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
 
 
 

The ranger slays the shadow by severing its head.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Feeling a little emboldened by the warm rush of healing magic, Kanok spins to face the opposite direction and runs, roaring  "SLAY IT!!!"   He veers around his dog and the shadowy bowman, runs wide around a large tree, then suddenly leaps the last stretch, hurling himself at the mass of darkness and plunging his spear into it's core.

Fang, angered from his new wound, redoubles his efforts to bring down the elf who stings from afar.

 
 Spoiler 

Kanok moves like so:   
 Spoiler: movement 
 
 

The red is his normal move, the blue is a  sudden leap .

 Jump:   [roll0]

 Stones Bones  - if attack is successful, Kanok gains DR 5/- until his next turn.
 Shortspear:   [roll1]
 Damage:   [roll2]
if critical:
 Shortspear:   [roll3]
 Damage:   [roll4]

 Bite:   [roll5]
 Damage:   [roll6]
if critical:
 Bite:   [roll7]
 Damage:   [roll8]

 Trip:   [roll9]
 
 
 

Fang is unsuccessful in hitting the elf, but Kanok's weapon sinks deep into the dark mass and though he can't see, it feels like he hit... something.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh9 is an elf with a bow,
Sh15 an elf with two weapons,
Sh11 and Sh12 are wolves,
Sh13 and Sh14 big cats,
Sh16 a large bear
and the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
The black square is its darkest spot.
 
 
CWater
Stiira looks around on the battlefield, unsure of what to do. In the end she takes a few steps closer to the biggest concentration of combatants and hurls a rock from her sling at the elven archer.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Not very effective I know, but Stiira's not too keen on getting into melee.
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 1 ] 
 


Cluthin her teeth, Taesha takes a hand off her largest wound and grabs her spear. Taking a step forward she throws it at the same shadow the witch attacked.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 

The rock only scratches the shadow bowman, but the spear tears a hole in its side.

The elemental moves towards the shadow bear, pummeling it with its huge fists.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 

Slam1:  (1d20+13)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 11 ] 

Slam1:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 22 ] 
 

The first attacks damges the shadow through sheer force, but the second doesn't even come close to hitting it.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I don't really like going for half the players, but it's been over 4 days. I'll have them continue what they did last round.
 


Asha keeps helping Eldien to move away from the shadows, though they have to change direction with the appearance of the new enemies.

Tuntematon uses the reindeer antler to heal the worst of Taesha's wounds.
 
 Spoiler: Healing 
Cure Light Wounds from the wand
 (1d8+5)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
The archer shifts its aim from Fang and shoots one arrow at Stiira and the second at Taesha.
 
 Spoiler: Rapid Shot 
Arrow1:  (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 1 ] 

Arrow2:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 8 ] 
 

Stiira yelps when the arrow hits her, though it's only a scratch. Taesha manages to just duck under the arrow directed at her.
--------------------
The shadow wolf runs after Asha and tries to bite her when catching up.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 

The binder evades the beasts jaws.

The feline runs after them too, and while it doesn't reach them yet, it looks ready for a charge.
--------------------
The other cat readies its stance for attack, then springs forward to charge at Aidan.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
 

The rangers gets an ugly bite.
--------------------
The other elf shadow moves to attack Fang with both weapons.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Axe:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 

Dagger:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 

Ouch. Fang's down to -5 HP.
 

Both slashes hit and the dog falls down with large bleeding wounds in his side.
--------------------
The shadow bears gets up to stand on two feet, clawing and biting the earth elemental.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+11)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 11 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+11)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 10 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 15 ] 
 

The elemental is soon filled with clawmarks and pieces of earth gets torn off and thrown around.
--------------------
The darkness shifts its mass to surround Kanok and the warrior feels how it tries to hold him in place.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Grapple:  (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
Something:
 (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 (1d2)[ 2 ] 
 (1d2)[ 1 ] 

With Close-Quarters Fighting, Kanok gets an AoO, which will affect the outcome of this attempt. The darkness is not overwhelming enough to hamper vision, in case you were wondering.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh9 is an elf with a bow,
Sh15 an elf with two weapons,
Sh11 a wolf,
Sh13 and Sh14 big cats,
Sh16 a large bear
and the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
The black square is its darkest spot.
 
 
Etherion
Aidan flinches back from the shadow beast's assault, then retaliates.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
 (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
As the darkness moves to envelope Kanok, his instincts kick in and he quickly jabs the mass of shadow before it can.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 10 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 

If the attack was successful, add the damage dealt to this roll:
 Grapple:   (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan flinches back from the shadow beast's assault, then retaliates.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
 
 
 

Both attacks miss the cat.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 As the darkness moves to envelope Kanok, his instincts kick in and he quickly jabs the mass of shadow before it can.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortspear:   [roll0]
 Damage:   [roll1]
if critical:
 Shortspear:   [roll2]
 Damage:   [roll3]

If the attack was successful, add the damage dealt to this roll:
 Grapple:   [roll4]
 
 
 

The darkness flinches as Kanok suddenly stabs it again, and it fails to get a hold of him.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok quickly presses the assault, giving the creature no chance to resume it's engulfing.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 21 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 10 ] 
 Fang Stabilization:   (1d10)[ 5 ] , succeed on a 1.
 
Athedia
 "Eldien, get your spear out."   Asha stabbed forward as soon as Eldien let her arm free.

 
 Spoiler 
Shortspear

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Crit Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 
CWater
Asha's spear pierces the shadow wolf's skin. Eldien hops clumsily forward to strike it too.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
Balance:  (1d20)[ 4 ]  DC 7 if the attack hits, DC 15 if misses.
 

She manages to plunge the spear to the shadow, though in doing so loses her balance and falls down to the grass.

Stiira takes a deep breath and clenches her fists, then runs towards the shadow elves. When she's close enough, the witch lifts her hands up and opens her palms.  " Burn burn burn.. ",  she mutters and flames burst from her fingers.

 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Burning hands.
Damage:  (4d4)[ 9 ] 
Ref DC 14 for half
Archer:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Dualwielder:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 

Both get some minor burns, but neither disappear.

Taesha takes a couple of sidesteps and when she has a clear path, runs and leaps towards the dualvielding elf slashing with her claws.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 

AC 13 until next turn.
 

With a few precise cuts, the warrior slices the shadow in half.

The elemental continues to punch the bear.
 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Slam1:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 16 ] 

Slam2:  (1d20+13)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 19 ] 
 

The first attack goes wide, but the second deals a heavy blow.

Tuntematon reaches down to touch Fang with the tip of the reindeer antler.
 
 Spoiler: Healing 
Cure Light Wounds:  (1d8+5)[ 7 ] 

That brings Fang up to 1 HP.
After this little ordeal, a new Handle Animal will be needed for him to attack, etc.
 

The beelidg stops and the dog opens his eyes.
CWater
The shadow wolf retaliates and tries to bite Asha again.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 

If hits, takes  (1d3)[ 1 ]  damage from the spikes and
Fort  (1d20+5)[ 14 ]  DC 13 or  (1d2)[ 2 ]  Dex damage.
 

It's scratched by the spikes, but still sinks its teeth to the binder's foot, trying to drag her to the ground.

The large cat leaps towards Eldien who is down.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 

The elf screams when the cat bites her arm.

-----------------------
The other cat shadow fighting Aidan gets up to two feet to claw the ranger as well as bite.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20+1)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d2+1)[ 3 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+1)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d2+1)[ 2 ] 
 

The ranger evades one of its paws, but gets scratches from the other as well as a nasty bite.
-----------------------

The shadow archer takes a step back and shifts its attention to Stiira, releasing two arrows at the witch.
 
 Spoiler: Rapid Shot 
Arrow1:  (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 7 ] 

Arrow2:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8)[ 5 ] 
 

They miss their target.

The large bear continues to battle the elemental.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw1:  (1d20+11)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 11 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+11)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+8)[ 10 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 

Large chunks of earth are torn of the elemental, though it remains standing.

The mass of darkness drifts away from Kanok and towards the other combatants. It's shadowed tendril's reach past the tree trunk in front of it, trying to grab the dog who is still lying on the ground.

 
 Spoiler: Grapple 
Touch attack:  (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Opposed grapple:  (1d20+14)[ 20 ]  (Forgot to add the size modifier last round, sorry about the inconsistency. Kanok still made that opposed check though even with that taken to account thanks to the AoO damage, so no retcon issues.)

Fang's touch AC is 8 atm, right?
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sh9 is an elf with a bow,
Sh11 a wolf,
Sh13 and Sh14 big cats,
Sh16 a large bear
and the grey area is a menacing mass of darkness.
The black square is its darkest spot,
the darker grey is where the darkness overlaps with a tree.
 
 
Rathgar
The centaur turns to the wounded wolf and provides some of his personal healing power to it.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Lesser Vigor on Fang, giving him Fast Healing 1 for 13 rounds
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok continues his unrelenting assault on the shadowy blob.

 
 Spoiler 

Adjusts into AA10.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 

Kanok cannot handle Fang when raging, so what Fang does is up to our DM.
 
CWater
Kanok hits the dark mass once again and this time seems to hit something vital. The darkness loses its grip on Fang and a moment later all the other shadows vanish, leaving no trace of their existence. The mass itself bulges and shrinks, and suddenly white bones start to fall out of its core. The darkness continues to twist, until the last of it fades away from view. In the middle of the large pile of bones lies a single red-black crystal.

 
 Spoiler 
Right, combat's over.
 
Athedia
Asha lay looking up at the shadow terrified.  Was she really going to fail so soon? As she lay there the shadow twisted and dissolved away. Pushing herself up she knew she couldn't wait.  Reaching into her pocket she pulled out some of her chalk and started drawing out a design.  As the coffin rose from the ground she breathed deeply.  She was protected again.

 
 Spoiler 
Binder Check for Ronove DC 15:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
 


Asha felt her face forced to form a frown and had minor regret at not having eaten breakfast.  Helping Eldien up she started back to the others. "Good job Eldien." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha lay looking up at the shadow terrified.  Was she really going to fail so soon? As she lay there the shadow twisted and dissolved away. Pushing herself up she knew she couldn't wait.  Reaching into her pocket she pulled out some of her chalk and started drawing out a design.  As the coffin rose from the ground she breathed deeply.  She was protected again.

 
 Spoiler 
Binder Check for Ronove DC 15: [roll0]
 
 
 

 "So hasty, child. You are too constrained by the illusion of time, some mental exercises will be in order.."  As the coffin empties and then fades away, so does Ronove's voice, but she continues her lecturing inside Asha's mind.


 Asha felt her face forced to form a frown and had minor regret at not having eaten breakfast.  Helping Eldien up she started back to the others. "Good job Eldien."  

 "Thanks for not leaving me",  the elf replies. The shadows obviously scared her, but when Asha performs her binding, she seems more curious than startled by Ronove's appearance.  "She... says some very strange things." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "So hasty, child. You are too constrained by the illusion of time, some mental exercises will be in order.."  As the coffin empties and then fades away, so does Ronove's voice, but she continues her lecturing inside Asha's mind.

 "Thanks for not leaving me",  the elf replies. The shadows obviously scared her, but when Asha performs her binding, she seems more curious than startled by Ronove's appearance.  "She... says some very strange things."  
 

Asha sighed as the lecture continued.    Mental exercises or not that shadow was beyond anything I have seen    Wincing she rubbed her brow.   "You are of my tribe now.  And trust me, she hasn't stopped." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok descends from his rage, breathing heavily, sweat steaming off his unarmored form.  He scans the group to see if everyone is still alive, nodding to those nearest in congratulations and thanks, then studies the pile of bones in front of him.  Noticing the crystal, he puts away his shield, then bends down to pick it up.  He takes the crystal to Stiira, wordlessly handing it to her, then walks over to Eldien and Asha.  Fang limps, then walks, behind him.

Drawing his bone wand, he touches it to Eldien and mutters a few words, letting the healing magic run it's course.   "See that?"   He points to the walking mound of earth on the other side of the battlefield.  "Here."   He retrieves his own stone from his belongings,  "For you." 
He has realized that it might be better in the hands of one who is less busy in combat and who cannot adequately defend themselves.

The beserker then goes to mend a few more wounds, before finally going back to the camp to don his armor.
 
 Spoiler 

 Eldien:   (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha nodded at Kanok's healing of Eldien.   "That thing was... I don't think I have heard of anything like it."   She went over and knelt by the bones, trying to see if she could count how many bodies were contained.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok descends from his rage, breathing heavily, sweat steaming off his unarmored form.  He scans the group to see if everyone is still alive, nodding to those nearest in congratulations and thanks, then studies the pile of bones in front of him.  Noticing the crystal, he puts away his shield, then bends down to pick it up.  He takes the crystal to Stiira, wordlessly handing it to her, then walks over to Eldien and Asha.  Fang limps, then walks, behind him.   
 

Stiira has slumped down to a sitting position. The sand claws crumble away from her hand, and the witch is relieved she didn't have to try to use them. She takes the crystal when Kanok gives it to her, first holding it suspiciously at an arms length from herself, but when it doesn't seem to be about to devour her, begins to study it more carefully.

 "I... don't really know that much about stones",  she says after a while,  "But this one is odd. I can't really explain... I wonder is it's magical, but I don't have the spell to find out in my mind right now." 

 Drawing his bone wand, he touches it to Eldien and mutters a few words, letting the healing magic run it's course.   "See that?"   He points to the walking mound of earth on the other side of the battlefield.  "Here."   He retrieves his own stone from his belongings,  "For you." 
He has realized that it might be better in the hands of one who is less busy in combat and who cannot adequately defend themselves. 

 "..Thank you",  Eldien says,  "I... Are you sure you don't need it?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha nodded at Kanok's healing of Eldien.   "That thing was... I don't think I have heard of anything like it."   She went over and knelt by the bones, trying to see if she could count how many bodies were contained. 
 

Asha counts over twenty skulls in the pile and judging by their shapes and sizes, they represent several species. The bones are unnaturally pale and clean, though otherwise they seem normal.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge(nature) could identify what creatures the bones belonged to.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts while donning the Dragonskin.   "Use it when I do." 
Rathgar
 "Well, it looks like this area really might be as bad as those orc said.  Either that or we just have bad luck.  It seems like we always wake up to something wanting to gnaw on us..."   With that, the prophet went around and prayed over all of the wounded, causing their wounds to slowly knit themselves back together.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Lesser Vigor on all of those who have 5 or more HP missing, then casting Minor Healing on anyone with 3 or 4 HP missing.
 
CWater
Aidan and Kanok study the pile of bones and notice that they belonged to the same kind of animals and humanoids the earlier shadows resembled. The numbers seem to sort of match too, a couple of bears, a pack of wolves, two elves and an orc, though there are a few more skeletons in total than the shadows they ended up fighting.

 
 Spoiler 
Let me know if you want to do anything more with the bones. They are in pretty good condition, so you might be able to trade some of them.
 


The party heals and packs up the camp, then continue on their way, up the infamous mountain. They reach the treeline soon enough, and like they noticed yesterday, it is unusually stark. As if there is an invisible line none of the taller plants dares to cross. Grass doesn't seem to care though, it grows happily here and there, even decorated by the occasional early spring flower.

 
 Spoiler: Skill Checks? 
Okay, you don't exactly have a very clear destination or goal in mind, othet than 'checking out the mountain while you pass through', right? As such, you're free to make Survival and/or Search checks, to see if you spot anything noteworthy.

Please state if your roll is an individual check or Aid Another.
 
CWater
Some time after noon the party spots a long thin shape lying on a rock, that first looks like a snake, but later turns out to be a piece of torn rope. On the ground not too far from it they find the remnants of a long cold campfire.

 
 Spoiler 
Might be relevant, might not be. Want to try tracking whoever was here, or just continue forward?
 
Etherion
Aidan walks to the camp, and kneels down to take a closer look.

 We should see where they went. 
 
 Spoiler: tracking check 
 (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Thinking that it may be relevant, Kanok moves over to the old campsite with the faux-snake and begins looking for a set of tracks to follow.  He holds the rope out to Fang, trying to get the hound to pick up the trail and aid in his search.

 
 Spoiler: Tracking 

 Survival:   (1d20+14)[ 34 ] 
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
 Fang Scent Aid-another Survival:   (1d20+5)[ 10 ]  vs DC 10

Can two people assist me in this?  More importantly, can two people both try to assist me, even if I can only receive the assist bonus once?
 
CWater
Finding tracks in the rocky terrain is not an easy task, but with patient searching and help of experience and Fang's nose, the hunters able to detect subtle signs that reveal the direction these people took. There was at least five individuals, possibly more. The signs also suggest that among them are some of smaller size, either children or folk like Stiira.

The landscape doesn't change much as the party follows the faint trail, only the air grows a little colder and more windy as they climb higher. The sun is already getting closer to the horizon when they see a thin line of smoke rising from ahead. It's coming from a small fire, set in front of small cave.

 
 Spoiler 
Let's say you're about 1000ft. from the cave entrance atm. It's uphill, difficult terrain, i.e. no running or charging. There are rocks of many sizes all around, which can grant cover.

Would you like to proceed openly, try sneaking, or send a scout/s?
 
Athedia
Asha knelt down and traced out Ronove's binding circle again.    "Sorry Ronove, but this requires a different kind of skill.  I promise to ask you back tomorrow."    Standing in the center she summoned out Ronove again, feeling the pull coming from her own chest.

Binding Check:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ]  vs DC 15

As Asha finished the summon she felt a final tug and collapsed to the ground.  Looking up she saw in front of her was the coffin the face on it looking furious.
CWater
 "How DARE you banish me like this, Asha!!",  Ronove bellows,  "Insolent child! I am the only one with the knowledge and wisdom to properly guide you! The others are fools, distracted by insignificant matters and desires. They lack determination,  give imperfect advice and... "  The rest of the bitter vestige's words are lost as the coffin is sucked back to the earth.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "How DARE you banish me like this, Asha!!",  Ronove bellows,  "Insolent child! I am the only one with the knowledge and wisdom to properly guide you! The others are fools, distracted by insignificant matters and desires. They lack determination,  give imperfect advice and... "  The rest of the bitter vestige's words are lost as the coffin is sucked back to the earth. 
 

Asha winced.  It would not be pleasant the next time she had to call on Ronove.  Carefully she traced out the pattern for Malphus, sitting back on her heels exhausted to wait.

Binding Check:  (1d20-2)[ -1 ]  vs DC 15
CWater
The vestige doesn't keep Asha waiting for long. A single white dove flies out of the circle, followed by a pair, then a group of four, then eight, sixteen and so on, until the air is full of small fluttering wings. After adequately annoying everybody, the swarm of birds disperses, revealing a pair of huge black wings, protectively wrapped around the rest of the spirit's form. Slowly, Malphas lifts up his head. It resembles that of an elf's, but his hair consists entirely of dark feathers and his eyes are pitch-black holes, though the redness around them suggests that he is still able to cry.

 "Asssha... I thhhhought no one would rrrrememberrhh me today",  when Malphas speaks, a thin snake-like tongue sneaks to taste the air from behind his black teeth,  "I was verrrrhy ssssad..." 

Malphas attempts to wipe a tear off his eye with his wing, but only manages to stick a feather into it.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The vestige doesn't keep Asha waiting for long. A single white dove flies out of the circle, followed by a pair, then a group of four, then eight, sixteen and so on, until the air is full of small fluttering wings. After adequately annoying everybody, the swarm of birds disperses, revealing a pair of huge black wings, protectively wrapped around the rest of the spirit's form. Slowly, Malphas lifts up his head. It resembles that of an elf's, but his hair consists entirely of dark feathers and his eyes are pitch-black holes, though the redness around them suggests that he is still able to cry.

 "Asssha... I thhhhought no one would rrrrememberrhh me today",  when Malphas speaks, a thin snake-like tongue sneaks to taste the air from behind his black teeth,  "I was verrrrhy ssssad..." 

Malphas attempts to wipe a tear off his eye with his wing, but only manages to stick a feather into it. 
 


 "I, we need help.  Please, I already have Ronove angry so that you could help." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I, we need help.  Please, I already have Ronove angry so that you could help."  
 

 "Rrronove... Yesss, that one isss cold. No emotion at all."  Malphas lets out a deep sigh,  "I guess I could help you, if you prrrhomisssshe to be nice. I'm in a delicate ssstate of mind today."  Malphas' expression is positively miserable.
Athedia
 "I promise." 
CWater
Malphas nods and sports a small smile before turning into a cloud of feathers that then fade from view, and Asha feels the spirit take up residence in her mind. Those that look at the binder, can see her mouth turn black.

Stiira throws a quick glance at her, then slowly starts to make her way towards the cave entrance.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, Hide and Move Silently from our scouts.

Stiira
Hide:  (1d20+13)[ 32 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha knew she would not be as quiet as Stiira and so stayed a short distance behind her.  A raven launched out of the nearby bushes keeping an eye ahead of them on the trail.

Hide:  (1d20+1)[ 4 ] 
Move Silently: [roll]1d20+[/roll]
Athedia
Move Silently:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
CWater
Through the raven's eyes Asha gets a closer look at their target. The smoke does come from a small campfire, mostly embers by now. One man, human it would seem, is lounging just inside the cave. He has a spear lying close, but doesn't appear to be actively keeping guard.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20-3)[ 11 ] 
Listen:  (1d20-3)[ 8 ] 
 


EDIT:
But when the party scouts get closer, he quickly gets up, grabbing the weapon in the same motion.

 
 Spoiler 
You're about 300 ft. from him, Stiira is a little closer, hiding. He's got a glimpse of Asha, though she can relatively easily get out of sight by ducking behind the rocks.
 
Athedia
Asha smiled and waved at him.  She spoke quietly to Stiira  " I'll get him away. "   She let Fear grow larger in her hands and waited for him to approach her.  As soon as he got within throwing distance of the spear she turned around and ran shouting for the others, keeping just out of reach until she had led him far enough away from Stiira.

Then she vanished, just blinked out of existence save for the final echoes of her last shout.

In reality she had begged Malphas for his gift of being hidden from sight and had doubled back to attack the man chasing her.
CWater
The man eyes Asha suspiciously and shouts something back to the cave. With the spear in hand he sets out to approache her.  "Who're you?"  he grunts a question.

When Asha turns to run and shouts for the others, the man stops in place and rises his weapon. His eyes widen as the binder turns invisible and he glances around frantically.

Once the invisible Asha moves closer to the man, she notices a small odd bulging shape in his forehead, above the right eye.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot to notice Stiira:  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
Stiira's Hide:  (1d20+15)[ 26 ]  (I'll give her a +2 to the check, since she's not moving and saw the man coming, and Asha's been distracting him)

Move Silently check from Asha when she moves back, against the man's Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
 Invisibility rules. 

Where is the raven?
 


Another humanoid, this one small sized, comes out from the cave to stand by the fire.
Athedia
She went behind him.  Standing for a second she spoke.   "You asked a question?  So few people have asked questions these days." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 She went behind him.  Standing for a second she spoke.   "You asked a question?  So few people have asked questions these days."  
 

The man spins around and his eyes scan the surroundings, trying to locate the speaker.  "I asked who are you! And what are you doing here?" 

The smaller humanoid leaves the campfire and soon disappears behind some rocks.
 
 Spoiler 
Spot checks if you want to try seeing where they went. The DC is higher for the rest of the party that are farther away; feel free to move closer if you want.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The man spins around and his eyes scan the surroundings, trying to locate the speaker.  "I asked who are you! And what are you doing here?" 

The smaller humanoid leaves the campfire and soon disappears behind some rocks.
 
 Spoiler 
Spot checks if you want to try seeing where they went. The DC is higher for the rest of the party that are farther away; feel free to move closer if you want.
 
 
 

Asha moved behind him again.  "Tell your friend to come out from the rocks.  We seek prophets." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha moved behind him again.  "Tell your friend to come out from the rocks.  We seek prophets."  
 

The man is silent for a moment, clutching the spear in his hands as if ready for an attack.  "Then you have the wrong mountain",  he replies brusquely,  "How many are you?" 
 
 Spoiler 
3 rounds have passed since Asha turned invisible.
How close is she to the man?
 


Kanok gets a glimpse of the other stranger coming down the hill, though the sneaker is soon lost again behind the rocks.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns when he loses sight of the Stiira-sized one.  He promptly puts away his shield and spear, then draws his bow and nocks an arrow.  In a low tone, almost growling, he speaks,  "Someone snuck out of the cave; I will stop them.  Fang, come." 
 
 Spoiler: Map? 
Can I see a basic map of the area?  I don't want to leave our cover.
 
CWater
 "Hey! Cat got your tongue?"  the man shouts to the air.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok frowns when he loses sight of the Stiira-sized one.  He promptly puts away his shield and spear, then draws his bow and nocks an arrow.  In a low tone, almost growling, he speaks,  "Someone snuck out of the cave; I will stop them.  Fang, come." 
 
 Spoiler: Map? 
Can I see a basic map of the area?  I don't want to leave our cover.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Yes, Map! 
 Note!!  This map's squares are  10 ft./10 ft. 
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
The rest of the party are about 350 ft. away from Asha. (A little closer than originally, but I wanted to fit everyone in the same map.)
 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Hey! Cat got your tongue?"  the man shouts to the air. 
 

 "I was counting, hold yourself.   Seven, we number seven.  Put down your weapons, not all of them like to talk."   Asha shifted her sight to see through the birds eyes as it flew in lazy circles above them.
CWater
The man clutches the spear tighter.
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy check please.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The man clutches the spear tighter.
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy check please.
 
 
 

 "How am I supposed to trust you if you still have that spear?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 

Does the bird see anything?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok takes a quick glance up at the cave, as if checking the landscape again, then sets off, slightly crouching, bow in hand.  Fang follows behind, oblivious to the situation.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving in a large circle in the direction the halfling left the cave.  So, basically straight up or straight down on the map, maybe moving closer by the time he reaches the top or bottom border.  The idea is to either cut off or follow the halfling, by tracking if necessary.

 Hide:   (1d20-2)[ 3 ] 
 Move Silently:   (1d20-2)[ 11 ] 
I'm banking on the distance penalties saving me here.
 
CWater
Taesha watches Kanok's back as he sets off.  "Should we go too?"  she asks Aidan and Tuntematon.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "How am I supposed to trust you if you still have that spear?"  
 

 "And why should  I  trust you? You're not even showing yourself!" 

Up this close, Asha can notice that the bulge in the man's forehead is the shape of an arrowhead.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Taesha watches Kanok's back as he sets off.  "Should we go too?"  she asks Aidan and Tuntematon.



 "And why should  I  trust you? You're not even showing yourself!" 

Up this close, Asha can notice that the bulge in the man's forehead is the shape of an arrowhead. 
 

 "Safety."   Asha backed up a good distance and let Fear grow his longest length and prepared in case the man charged her.  Then she dropped her invisibility.   "Or does a girl pose any threat to you?' 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Safety."   Asha backed up a good distance and let Fear grow his longest length and prepared in case the man charged her.  Then she dropped her invisibility.   "Or does a girl pose any threat to you?'  
 

 "The girl said she had friends",  the man replies. He still looks suspicious, but lifts the spear up to a less threatening position.  "And... tricks. How did you do that?" 
 
 Spoiler 

I repositioned Asha and Kanok (with Fang) on the map, with Asha 70 ft. from the man and Kanok as far as he has moved by now. If you would rather have them move somewhere else, let me know.
Does anyone else want to advance? The man is at least somewhat distracted by Asha at this point.

Ah, and I assumed Asha is keeping her eyes on the man right now, but last she saw through the bird's eyes, the halfling was still sneaking closer to them.
 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note!! This map's squares are 10 ft./10 ft.
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
The rest of the party are about 350 ft. away from Asha and the man.
 
 

 
Athedia
 "Tell your short friend to back off first."   Asha didn't lower her spear, using the raven to watch the halfling.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Tell your short friend to back off first."   Asha didn't lower her spear, using the raven to watch the halfling. 
 

The man freezes for a second, then throws a few glances over his shoulders.  "Don't see him here.." 

EDIT:
He tries to hide it, but Asha notices him stealing glances at the bird flying above their heads.

 
 Spoiler 
Something:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
Opposed by:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 


The halfling is at O13. Let's see if he and Stiira notice each other.

Stiira
Hide:  (1d20+13)[ 31 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
(she's not been moving, so no Move Silently)

Other halfling
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
Spot:  (1d20)[ 12 ] 
 

Through the raven's eyes, th binder sees the halfling again. He's maybe 40-50 ft. from where Stiira is hiding, though neither of them seem to be aware of the other yet.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The man freezes for a second, then throws a few glances over his shoulders.  "Don't see him here.." 

EDIT:
He tries to hide it, but Asha notices him stealing glances at the bird flying above their heads.

 
 Spoiler 
Something: [roll0]
Opposed by: [roll1]


The halfling is at O13. Let's see if he and Stiira notice each other.

Stiira
Hide: [roll2]
Spot: [roll3]
Listen: [roll4]
(she's not been moving, so no Move Silently)

Other halfling
Hide: [roll5]
Move Silently: [roll6]
Spot: [roll7]
 

Through the raven's eyes, th binder sees the halfling again. He's maybe 40-50 ft. from where Stiira is hiding, though neither of them seem to be aware of the other yet. 
 

 "I see him.  Right about..."   The bird dived down at where the halfling was while screeching loudly.    "There." 
Etherion
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Taesha watches Kanok's back as he sets off.  "Should we go too?"  she asks Aidan and Tuntematon.



 "And why should  I  trust you? You're not even showing yourself!" 

Up this close, Asha can notice that the bulge in the man's forehead is the shape of an arrowhead. 
 

 I think we should wait here for now. 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stops suddenly like a hunting tiger whose prey is looking in its direction, arrow half drawn.  He waits to see how this plays out.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I see him.  Right about..."   The bird dived down at where the halfling was while screeching loudly.    "There."  
 

 "So that bird  is  yours",  the man's eyes narrow and he lowers the spear again,  "Didn't think I would notice? Who sent you?!" 

Through the raven's eyes Asha sees the halfling flinch and instinctively drop closer to the ground. But he holds up his right hand and black arrow springs out of it towards the avian.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Ranged touch:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 4 ] 
 

The burst of darkness misses the bird.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  I think we should wait here for now.  
 

Taesha nods.  "Alright, they get a little more time."  When the raven's screech suddenly pierces the air, the warrior jerks her head up.  "But maybe not much." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok stops suddenly like a hunting tiger whose prey is looking in its direction, arrow half drawn.  He waits to see how this plays out. 
 

 
 Spoiler: Movement, new map 
I interpreted this as Kanok moving to a position where he can take aim (again, correct me if this is not the case). This is where he gets with his base speed (he can move twice that of course, though that makes it slightly more likely he's heard). He's 210 ft. away, which is two full range increments, and together with the dark square on the way add up to a -8 to the shot from this point.
 
 Spoiler: Map 
 Note!!  This map's squares are  10 ft./10 ft. 
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
Kanok is about 210 ft. from Asha and the man, and the rest of the party are about 350 ft. away from them.
 
 

 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "So that bird  is  yours",  the man's eyes narrow and he lowers the spear again,  "Didn't think I would notice? Who sent you?!" 

Through the raven's eyes Asha sees the halfling flinch and instinctively drop closer to the ground. But he holds up his right hand and black arrow springs out of it towards the avian.
The burst of darkness misses the bird.
] 
 

 "Most people don't. A bird is just a bird.  Though your friend need not attack it.  It is just my eyes."   She touched the dyed skin around her eyes as she spoke letting her vision shift between the two modes.  The bird was climbing into the sky again back to watching.   "A dream sent me.  I promise on the hills of the Ancestors that I will do you no harm." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok decides it is time to act, and begins trotting a roundabout course that will bring him closer to the halfling.

 
 Spoiler 

Like so:   
 Spoiler: map 
 
 


Moving 80ft a round, which is a -10 penalty unless I'm mistaken.

 Hide:   (1d20-12)[ 1 ] 
 Move Silently:   (1d20-12)[ -1 ] 

If you'll rule that Fang mimics me:
 Fang Hide:   (1d20-8)[ 10 ] 
 Move Silently:   (1d20-8)[ -6 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Most people don't. A bird is just a bird.  Though your friend need not attack it.  It is just my eyes."   She touched the dyed skin around her eyes as she spoke letting her vision shift between the two modes.  The bird was climbing into the sky again back to watching.   "A dream sent me.  I promise on the hills of the Ancestors that I will do you no harm."  
 

The man snorts.  "Right, so you say."  He turns his head to the left as he notices movement,  "But I'm not sure about these friends of yours."  He closes his eyes for a moment and something blueish and scaly starts to grow on his skin and clothes. It appears out of nowhere and still he's soon armored from top to toe. The design of the armour looks foreign to Asha, though there is also something oddly familiar about it. He doesn't seem to be about to attack her right away though, maybe her words have had some effect.

 "RIIH!!!",  the man shouts,  "Come here!!"  He looks back to Asha,  "Why not invite your friends to join us, then we can all see each other." 

First there is no reaction from the halfling, but then he decides to come out of his hiding place behind the rock and starts to scuttle towards them.

 
 Spoiler 
It will take him about 3 rounds to get to the human. Both Asha and Kanok can see him.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The man snorts.  "Right, so you say."  He turns his head to the left as he notices movement,  "But I'm not sure about these friends of yours."  He closes his eyes for a moment and something blueish and scaly starts to grow on his skin and clothes. It appears out of nowhere and still he's soon armored from top to toe. The design of the armour looks foreign to Asha, though there is also something oddly familiar about it. He doesn't seem to be about to attack her right away though, maybe her words have had some effect.

 "RIIH!!!",  the man shouts,  "Come here!!"  He looks back to Asha,  "Why not invite your friends to join us, then we can all see each other." 

First there is no reaction from the halfling, but then he decides to come out of his hiding place behind the rock and starts to scuttle towards them.

 
 Spoiler 
It will take him about 3 rounds to get to the human. Both Asha and Kanok can see him.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Arcana:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Knowledge the Planes:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
 


Asha willed the bird back to her shoulder.   "Tuntematon, Kanok, Taesha, Aidan, don't attack them." 

EDIT after Knowledge Checks:

 "No. STAY BACK!"   She lowered her spear again backing away from the man.   "Savnok, the banished.  My mother warned about his treachery." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "No. STAY BACK!"   She lowered her spear again backing away from the man.   "Savnok, the banished.  My mother warned about his treachery."  
 

 "Treachery...",  the man snorts again and begins moving towards Asha,  "So you are one of those narrow-minded fools." 

The bird's eyes tell Asha that the halfling is still coming towards them, though he's momentarily out of her own sight.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Remember the squares are 10 ft./10 ft. !
Asha is 50 ft. from the human man, Kanok is about 220 ft. from him, the rest of the party are about 350 ft. away.
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Assuming he has been seen, Kanok stops his approach.  Instead, he creeps around the far side of the large rock formation, then peeps around the corner.  He intends to keep watch on the halfling and the cave entrance.  He doesn't want anyone to run away without his noticing.

 
 Spoiler 

Moves to AM 5, then looks around the corner with improved cover.

The man has seen where Kanok is, but he might not see him peer around the corner.

 Hide:   (1d20+8)[ 14 ] , +10 added from improved cover.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Treachery...",  the man snorts again and begins moving towards Asha,  "So you are one of those narrow-minded fools." 

The bird's eyes tell Asha that the halfling is still coming towards them, though he's momentarily out of her own sight. 
 

With a screech the bird started circling again.   "Goodbye Savnok."   Turning on her heel Asha ran again to where she had last seen the group turning invisible as she started to run.
CWater
The man stops in his tracks as Asha disappears. He takes a quick look around, but doesn't try to guess where she went. Soon after, the halfling catches up with him. They talk for a short while, then the halfling turns to hurry back to the cave. The human follows, but more slowly, staying on his guard.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha gets back to the group without incident. The others can hear the approaching footsteps, and her invisibilty runs out soon after she reaches them.
 
CWater
 "Well?",  Taesha asks when Asha appears,  "Do they have anything to do with our quest?" 

----------

Kanok stays to watch the two strangers for the moment. He sees the halfling go back into the cave, while the human stays on guard outside with his weird armour on.

 
 Spoiler 
What would you like to do?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Well?",  Taesha asks when Asha appears,  "Do they have anything to do with our quest?"  
 

Asha gasped for breath.   "They are thieves.  Followers of Savnok the Betrayer.  Stiira is still hiding up there."   She grasped Fear tightly as she straightened up.   "I don't doubt they help the evil in the mountain." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha gasped for breath.   "They are thieves.  Followers of Savnok the Betrayer.  Stiira is still hiding up there."   She grasped Fear tightly as she straightened up.   "I don't doubt they help the evil in the mountain."  
 

 "Right. Best we ask them a few more questions then",  Taesha replies and the claws spring out of her hands. She turns to Aidan and Tuntematon,  "You with us?" 
 "Kanok went that way",  the warrior continues waving her hand in his general direction,  "Should we approach from different sides, in case they try to flee? If there are no more, they're outnumbered." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Right. Best we ask them a few more questions then",  Taesha replies and the claws spring out of her hands. She turns to Aidan and Tuntematon,  "You with us?" 
 "Kanok went that way",  the warrior continues waving her hand in his general direction,  "Should we approach from different sides, in case they try to flee? If there are no more, they're outnumbered."  
 

 "I will keep a watch on them."   Asha went whichever way she was directed.
Etherion
 I'm with you. How are we handling this? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I will keep a watch on them."   Asha went whichever way she was directed. 
 

Taesha nods,  "Good." 

 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  I'm with you. How are we handling this?  
 

 "Let's spread out, but try to be quick when we close in. Also, try not to fatally injure them, we'll need to find out what they're up to."

"Eldien, you stay here." 
 
 Spoiler 
This is just her suggestion, you do not have to follow it.

If you'd like to describe your approach in a few words, that would be nice. I'll place you on the map according to that. Kanok can notice when the others head out.
 
Athedia
Asha looked back at Eldien, worried about leaving her there.  Rummaging through the pack on her back she pressed the two stones she had gotten from the earth elemental into the elf's hand.   "I will keep an eye on you, use these if you are in danger."   She then ran after Taesha, the bird circling in the sky watching the cave.
Etherion
Aidan nods.  I'll circle around, flank them from the opposite side from Kanok. 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok, seeing the others begin to move, decides to go around to the opposite side.  He positions himself so that the rocks he is using for cover are directly between him and the cave entrance.  He then begins to move away, keeping the rocks in position.  Once he is far enough away that he cannot see the cave entrance himself, he circles around to the cliff wall, and begins to move towards the cave.  He rearms his spear and shield, and keeps Fang behind him.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked back at Eldien, worried about leaving her there.  Rummaging through the pack on her back she pressed the two stones she had gotten from the earth elemental into the elf's hand.   "I will keep an eye on you, use these if you are in danger."   She then ran after Taesha, the bird circling in the sky watching the cave. 
 

The elf nods, and clutches the stones tight in her hand.  "Be careful." 

The party members make their way towards the cave entrance, spreading out a bit to prevent the strangers from fleeing. When the human outside notices that they are coming, he starts shouting commands over his shoulder. From what the party can hear, he's telling the halfling to hurry up.

 
 Spoiler 
Normally I'd roll to see when exactly does he spot you, but since it doesn't actually make much difference to his actions here, we'll skip that.
 


When Taesha and Asha pass the rocks Stiira is hiding behind, the witch slips into view and follows them. A moment later, the other halfling comes running out of the cave, dragging two backpacks with him. The human quickly grabs one of them.

 
 Spoiler: Initiative! 
Right, time to roll initiative:
Kanok:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Human:  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
Halfling:   (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
 Everyone except Fang are up!  (Kanok can give him a command, but Fang can't follow it until next turn.)
 The enemies are flat-footed.

Oh, and you can assume that you have already drawn a weapon, if that makes a difference.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note that the squares are still  10 ft./10 ft. !! (I'll draw a smaller map once you close in.)
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch, and you can shoot over them).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
 
 

 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok rushes from boulder to boulder, approaching the cave while staying behind cover.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves to F10, adjacent to the dark grey square.  Gonna let Fang catch up when he can.
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon makes his best attempt at sneaking closer.

 
 Spoiler 
Attempt to move stealthily to N22

Rolls:
 Hide:   (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
 Move Silently:   (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Taesha charges forward, hoping the two won't notice the others too soon.

 
 Spoiler 
She's thinking they might be distracted by her and not notice the rest of you. Athedia, I moved Asha with her, if you'd prefer her to turn invisible instead this round (or do something else), let me know.

I'll make the stealth rolls for Aidan and Kanok here. They have +8 and +5 on them (respectively) due to distance, Tuntematon has the same bonus as Aidan.
(In case you're wondering, I'm ruling that every 20 ft. of distance grants a +1 to these checks.)

Aidan
Hide:  (1d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 

Kanok
Hide:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
Move Silently:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 

Perception checks from the enemy:
Human
Spot:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 16 ] 

Halfling
Spot:  (1d20)[ 3 ] 
Listen:  (1d20)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
The human takes an instinctive step back, as he sees the charging warrior women. He takes a look around, but it wouldn't seem that he has noticed the others. The halfling seems none the wiser.

 
 Spoiler 
They're going to run, let's see which direction.
1 means their left (towards Kanok), 2 their right.

 (1d2)[ 2 ] 
 


The halfling makes a few quick gestures with his hands, and suddenly something that looks like a pitch black shirt appears on his upper body. A likewise black disc appears on his left arm, placed like one would hold a shield. He then takes a few steps to the right, with the human following him.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note that the squares are still  10 ft./10 ft.!!  (I'll draw a smaller map once you close in.)
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch, and you can shoot over them).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
M is the human, H is the halfling. It seems they're going to run south.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok never stops running, in fact he begins sprinting, trying to catch up and overtake the two fleeing cultists.

 
 Spoiler 
Runs straight to F23, assuming Step of the Wind lets him ignore the lighter grey rocks when running.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Arcana:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Knowledge The Planes:  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha blinked out of view again and followed Taesha.  That halfling, shadow magic as well.  It made sense, how would a halfling have a bond with the ancestors.  But he controlled shadow?  She had never seen or heard of that before.
Etherion
Aidan stealthily moves forward, ready to intercept them should the continue running.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to k 28
When they reach d 24, Aidan will aim his bow and tell them to stop.
Readied action: If they move after he tells them to stop, he will shoot. (It's technically non-lethal until they die, and one arrow is unlikely to drop them)
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon continues to try to sneak into place.

 
 Spoiler 
Continue to sneak towards N22

Rolls:
 Hide:   (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
 Move Silently:   (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok races after the halfling and human, jumping over the smaller rocks on his way. Thanks to his experience, he is able to find steady footing even on the rough terrain.

Taesha and Asha continue to run uphill, and Stiira follows them, using a charge from her boots to keep up with them.

The strangers keep moving south, though not very fast, as a halfling's feet are short and the man is still wearing the strange armour.

When the two come to his view, Aidan raises his bow and orders them to stop. When they don't seem to comply he fires an arrow at the halfling.

 
 Spoiler 
Readied action

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 

The halfling can't move further this turn, but it doesn't look like he was going to stop, so I assumed you wanted to take the shot.

Perception rolls to see if the two enemies notice Tuntematon:
 
 Spoiler 
(-4 penalty due to the distance, and another -5 since their attention is on the other party members)
Human
Spot:  (1d20-8)[ 2 ] 
Listen:  (1d20-8)[ 10 ] 

Halfling
Spot:  (1d20-9)[ -5 ] 
Listen:  (1d20-9)[ 0 ] 
 

 Party's turn. 
 

The arrow passes through the shadows that cover the halfling and is buried deep to his chest.

Tuntematon doesn't think either of them has noticed him.

 
 Spoiler: Smaller map! 
Squares are normal sized (5 ft./5 ft.) now.
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch, and you can shoot over them).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
M = human, H = halfling.
 
 
Etherion
 I said. 
Aidan draws another arrow, and steps towards them.
 Stop. 
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to Q 46
Ready another action to shoot, this time preferably at the human. Also, should I make an intimidate check, and if I do, would I get a circumstantial bonus?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok runs past the cultists, finishing the cordon.  He stops at the cliff wall, then spins and assumes a defensive stance.  He does not speak, merely staring menacingly at the duo.

 
 Spoiler 

Moves to F41, then takes a total defense action.  He shouldn't be in Aidan's way if another shot is necessary.

AC is 23.
 
Athedia
Asha watched as the arrow hit the halfling.  "We need to know what they are hiding.  Don't kill them!" 
Etherion
 I don't have to  kill  them. 
CWater
Taesha runs closer too, to stand next to the man.

The halfling coughs and clutches the end of the arrow with his right hand. He rises the other one in a non-threatening manner,  "Alright, alright. Not running anymore." 

The human glares angrily at him.  "Coward!" 
 "You take an arrow to the chest, and say that again",  is the halfling's response.

 "..Cowardly traitor",  the man snarls and continues running. Taesha, who had caught up with him, tries to strike him, but the human is too fast and her claws cut only air.

 
 Spoiler: Map, etc. 
The Intimidate was high enough to get the halfling to yield, but not the human (would have needed to be pretty high for that).

Taesha's Attack
Claw:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 

Aidan has a readied action to shoot, and Kanok also gets an AoO when the man runs past him.
 Party's turn after those. 
 
 Spoiler: Map 
Squares are normal sized  (5 ft./5 ft.)  now.
Lighter gray squares contain smaller rocks (only offer cover if you crouch, and you can shoot over them).
Darker gray squares have higher rocks (cover or total cover depending on thickness).
Darkest spot on the left is the cave entrance.
H = halfling
M = human, his position after the AoOs, assuming that they don't drop him.
 
 

 
Etherion
As the human begins to run, Aidan fires his arrow.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 As the human begins to run, Aidan fires his arrow.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

The arrow hits the man in the back and he staggers a bit, but doesn't stop running.

 
 Spoiler 
That was the readied action, remember that you still have a full turn too. Which technically comes after Kanok's AoO.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok rushes towards the fleeing man, attempting to grab hold of him and force him to stop.

 
 Spoiler 
Provokes an AoO.  If the attack deals damage, the grapple automatically fails.  Kanok's AC is 19.

 Melee Touch Attack:   (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
 Grapple Check:   (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
 Unarmed Damage:   (1d3+4)[ 6 ] 

Kanok is in F45, should it matter.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Human's AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
 


The fleeing man tries to strike Kanok, but the warrior dodges the spear and grabs a hold of the runaway.
However, the man has too much momentum and manages to break free right away.
CWater
Taesha runs after Kanok and jumps to stand in front of the man.  "Stop already! You can't get away!" 

Stiira moves closer too, observing the fight with a concerned look on her face.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha, Aidan and Tuntematon still have a turn. Remember that while the halfling surrendered, he hasn't been secured.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
Athedia
Asha moved closer to the halfling, keeping the spear leveled at him.   "Don't run, and dispel the darkness around you." 
Rathgar
Seeing the man take off, Tuntematon runs back some and launches a sling stone from a great distance, hoping to do something.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to U45
Standard Action: Attack man with sling

 Attack With Sling (Range Increment calculated in)   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed)   (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler: undefined 
So, since it appears we are going to use called shots, lets try them out, shall we?
 


Aidan aims for the man's leg, hoping to slow him down.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Called shot: leg
 (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
Crit confirm/damage if necessary:
 (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon's rock bounces off the human's armour and he dodges Aidans arrow. Then he runs straight towards Taesha, trying to push her out of his way.

 
 Spoiler: Overrun attempt 
Provokes AoOs from both Taesha and Kanok.

Taesha
Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 

I'll make the rest of the rolls OOC.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha moved closer to the halfling, keeping the spear leveled at him.   "Don't run, and dispel the darkness around you."  
 

The halfling eyes the spearpoint,  "Yes, yes. Will do."  The shadows around him fade away.
CWater
The stubborn human rushes forward, still determined to flee. Taesha tries to block his way, but he collides with her elbow first, and knocks her down.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Taesha is prone.
 
 
Etherion
Aidan moves towards the man and aims another shot at his leg.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to L 49
Called shot leg (within point blank distance):
 (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 10 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Remaining calm, though beginning to feel the pangs of anger, Kanok rushes forward, done trying to do things relatively non-violently.  He thrusts his spear towards the back of the running man's knee.

 
 Spoiler 

Forgot my bonus from Step of the Wind last time.

Charging to G48, making a trivial leap over Taesha, for a called shot at the man's knee, which seems like a "tricky" shot (-5 added into attack roll).

 Shortspear:   (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
For now, I'm ruling that a called shot to the knee means the target's speed is reduced to 5 ft. for  (1d4)[ 1 ]  rounds.
 

The arrow gets stuck in the armour, but Kanok's spear pierces it and the man lets out a loud cry when his knee is damaged.

Taesha curses under her breath while getting back to her feet, and moves to stand next to Kanok. Stiira sneaks a little closer too.

With his leg wounded, the human turns around and thrusts his spear at Kanok. His face is pale, which indicates that he's probably starting to suffer from bloodloss.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 11 ] 
 

The attack is clumsy and the seasoned warrior evades it easily.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
I'm assuming that Tuntematon also moved closer.
 
 
Etherion
Aidan tosses his bow towards Tuntematon.  Catch! 
He runs up to the man, and attempts to grab him.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to G 49 and toss bow while doing it, don't know if rolls are necessary. If it requires a move or standard action to toss the bow, drop it instead.

Attempt grapple, provoke AoO
Melee touch attack to initiate:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 

Edit: Well, wasn't that a beautiful roll...
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok easily blocks the weak thrust with his spear.  Stone-faced, he regards the man while showing him his own blood upon the spear.   "Stop, or die." 
 
 Spoiler 
Taking total defense action, AC is 23.
 
CWater
Aidan is hasty in his attempt and his foot slips on a loose stone, causing him to stumble and miss the human. Seeing an opening, the man immediately strikes.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
 

The rangers gets a nasty wound.

Taesha takes a step forward grabbing her spear at the same time. Then she swings it at the man's weapon, trying to disarm him.
 
 Spoiler 
Already made his AoO for the round.
Opposed attack rolls both have two-handed weapons:
Taesha:  (1d20+10)[ 22 ] 
Human:  (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 

Taesha moved to F49.
 


But the human stubbornly hangs on to his weapon.
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Counter disarm 
Taesha:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Human:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ] 
 


The man tries to twist Taesha's spear from her hands, but is no more successful than her.
CWater
The man continues to resist  arrest , striking Aidan again.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 7 ] 
 


The ranger takes another hit.
Seharvepernfan
Without hesitation, Kanok dashes around the foolish man to flank him with Taesha, then coldly runs him through.  After witnessing the fool stab Aidan, Kanok has no mercy left in him.

 
 Spoiler 
This guy doesn't have combat reflexes, does he?
Move to H50 and attack.

Using Stone Bones; if attack is successful, kanok gains DR 5/Adamantine for one round.
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 22 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ]     &lt;--should be 1d6+ 5 , so 8 damage
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 30 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok strikes true and the man drops finally to the ground. He's bleeding and is losing consciousness.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  
 Spoiler 
This guy doesn't have combat reflexes, does he?
Move to H50 and attack.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
He doesn't have the feat no, but the AoO he made was last round, so he could make another one now. However, I use the ruling where you could flank with Taesha from H49, so let's assume that. The hit knocked him down to -1 anyway.

So he's down and...  (1d10)[ 4 ]  (stabilizes on 10) dying.

Aidan took 15 damage in this fight, but I don't think anyone else was injured.
 
Seharvepernfan
Without a word nor look, Kanok turns and calmly walks back to the halfling.  He is still holding the bloody spear in hand.  He locks into eye contact with the halfling and stares expressionlessly.  Waiting.
Athedia
Asha stared in horror.   "He might worship the Betrayer but he shouldn't be left to die!" 
Etherion
Aidan scowls, checking how severe his injuries are.
 Should we finish him off then? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan scowls, checking how severe his injuries are.
 Should we finish him off then?  
 

Taesha leans on her spear.  "Well, we've already got the halfling to answer our questions..." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Without a word nor look, Kanok turns and calmly walks back to the halfling.  He is still holding the bloody spear in hand.  He locks into eye contact with the halfling and stares expressionlessly.  Waiting. 
 

The halfling backs, until he's right next to the rock wall.  "...Eh. So. What do you want?"  he asks in a nervous voice, stealing glances at the human lying on the ground.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha stared in horror.   "He might worship the Betrayer but he shouldn't be left to die!"  
 

 "R-right!",  Stiira exclaims,  "We can't just leave him!" 
 
 Spoiler 
What do you want to do?
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok steps forward, invading the small man's space.  He towers over him, unrelenting with his icy stare.  For several moments, Kanok is silent, then, still calm,  "You will speak of why you are here on this mountain, plainly, with no tricks, or you will die where you stand." 
 
 Spoiler 
That was not a bluff check.

It's not exactly an intimidate check, either.  He is just stating a fact.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok steps forward, invading the small man's space.  He towers over him, unrelenting with his icy stare.  For several moments, Kanok is silent, then, still calm,  "You will speak of why you are here on this mountain, plainly, with no tricks, or you will die where you stand." 
 
 Spoiler 
That was not a bluff check.

It's not exactly an intimidate check, either.  He is just stating a fact.
 
 
 

The halfling swallows visibly.  "And if I do, you'll help me get this arrow off my chest and I can go? Remaining alive." 
 
 Spoiler 
The human is bleeding to death as you speak, if any of you want to save him, you've got to do it now. Stiira would like to, but she's too nervous to act on her own. Taesha doesn't appear to care.
 
Seharvepernfan
 "If none of us find falsehood in your words."   Fang slowly trots up to stand beside Kanok.

 
 Spoiler 
Meaning he will wait until the others are nearby and paying attention before he allows the halfling to speak.
 
Athedia
Asha shrank her spear and knelt down next to the man pressing her hands against his wounds.   "Savnok stole from the House of the Ancestors and turned the Brother-Guards against each other.  But even in his betrayal and exile his followers are to be left alive to remind him that he can never return." 
 
 Spoiler 
Heal:  (1d20)[ 7 ] 
 
Rathgar
The centaur rushed over to the downed human.   "Woah, I think we hit him a little TOO hard here.  Let's see if I can help out a little bit."   With that, the centaur tried to assist Asha in removing the arrow, saying a prayer to the Strange One that things don't go too much worse.

 
 Spoiler 
Attempting a heal check to remove the arrow, followed by Cure Minor Wounds, just in case he needs to be stabilized if things go awry.

Rolls:
 Heal:   (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon stabilizes the man and binds his wounds, also removing the arrow from his back. Together with Asha they carry him back towards the cave entrance, where Kanok is cornering the halfling. The others gather around too.

The halfling gulps.  "Look... What were trying to do here.. It's kind of complicated, not easy to explain.. Who are you people anyway?" 
Seharvepernfan
Responding immediately at the end of the halfling's last sentence, Kanok nearly interrupts him,  "Keep talking." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Responding immediately at the end of the halfling's last sentence, Kanok nearly interrupts him,  "Keep talking."  
 

 "Okay, okay. Uh... How should I explain...",  the halfling ponders,  "You see, my magic is kind of unusual... and we- I was hoping that in this cave, there... there would be something that could make it stronger. It really has nothing to do with you, I'm sure." 

One thing the party can notice now that they can study the two strangers more closely, is that both of them have small red-black crystal hanging from a string around their neck. They look very similar to the one the party found after they had slain the shadow creature.
Seharvepernfan
 "Give them the stone around your neck."   He indicates the closest of the others with a small movement of his spear.   "Are there others like you?  What made you think to do this?"   Kanok is noticeably less violent with this line of questioning.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  "Give them the stone around your neck."   He indicates the closest of the others with a small movement of his spear. 
 

The halflings eyes widen and him clutches the crystal in his hand,  "What? No!"  The seems frightened.


  "Are there others like you?  What made you think to do this?"   Kanok is noticeably less violent with this line of questioning. 

 "A few... They're not here now. I- we were... told of this place. It's speacial. Unique even." 
 
 Spoiler 
Let me know if you want to do something else besides questioning him.
 
Seharvepernfan
With visible restraint, Kanok looks away in the direction of the wounded man.  He does not move or speak for several breaths.

 
 Spoiler 
Gonna let the others deal with this one, otherwise Kanok will just beat him to death.  Don't forget your +4 size bonuses to intimidate! 😉
 
Etherion
Aidan walks over to the wounded man, and rips the crystal necklace off of his neck.
Athedia
Asha stayed kneeling beside the injured man.  "You twist shadows.  This morning a giant shadow spawning more fought us, inside lay the corpses of the forms it sent.  Your necklaces. That stone was in there too." 
 
 Spoiler: Diplomancy 
diplomancy: (1d20+6)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 "Yeah, all those big shadow things have one crystal inside, that appears when they die along with the bones. And you know the live ones won't come close to them? But if you take this from me, one of them will get me for sure! And you said you would leave me alive!" 
Rathgar
 "Speaking of being left alive, where is our elven companion?  I'm going to go check on her right now.  There are many strange things afoot on this mount, and it is best to not encounter strangeness alone.  Though the strange my bless, it may also curse, or maybe just bewilder..." 

With that, Tuntamaton began to trot back in the direction of his one legged companion to check on her, fearing the worst in the back of his mind.
CWater
Tuntematon returns to the place where the party left Eldien. At first he doesn't see the elf, and his worry grows, but then he sees her a few feet farther away, studying one of the larger rocks. She looks relieved to see him too.  "What happened? I was worried when it took you so long",  she nods towards the boulder,  "I found this. Though I don't know if it has any meaning." 

On the rock, there is an odd combination of colours that form a simple picture. A round black area, surrounded by a lighter ring. The strangest thing is that it doesn't look painted or otherwise handmade; if the circle wasn't so round, Tuntematon could swear that the pattern was naturally formed. But that is not all, the lighter circle is covered in small claw marks, or that's what they look like at first. If Tuntematon studies them closer, he notes that they're more like thin strands of shadows, except that there is nothing that would be casting them.  "Weird, don't you think?"  Eldien says and a small shudder passes through her body.

---------------------------

Back at the cave, Taesha has grabbed the hafling's backpack, and rummages through it.  "There's some food, and other usual supplies. ...And then some items I don't know the purpose of." 
Rathgar
 "Well, that's quite the feature there.  It looks strangely natural and unnatural at the same time.  I wonder what it could be.  Oh, Anlin, could you maybe shed some of your divine help to aid me in learning of this?"   With that, Tuntematon began to utter a prayer indecipherable to the elf, then studied the formation closely.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Detect Magic to try and see if I can discern something about the picture on the rock.

Rolls:
 Knowledge (Arcana):   (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
 Knowledge (Nature):   (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
 Knowledge (Religion):   (1d20+8)[ 13 ] 
 Knowledge (The Planes):   (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
 Spellcraft to discover school of magic:   (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
 


After staring at the rock for a few moments, the prophet decided to take a break and comfort his elven companion some.   "Hey, I think I know what might cheer you up, some.  Just give me a second to grab it..."   The centaur reached into a bag on his belt and pulled out a kitten.   "Here, she wants to play with you, but only for a little while."   Tuntematon then handed the kitten to the elf, a big grin on his face.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Well, that's quite the feature there.  It looks strangely natural and unnatural at the same time.  I wonder what it could be.  Oh, Anlin, could you maybe shed some of your divine help to aid me in learning of this?"   With that, Tuntematon began to utter a prayer indecipherable to the elf, then studied the formation closely.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Detect Magic to try and see if I can discern something about the picture on the rock.

Rolls:
 Knowledge (Arcana):  [roll0]
 Knowledge (Nature):  [roll1]
 Knowledge (Religion):  [roll2]
 Knowledge (The Planes):  [roll3]
 Spellcraft to discover school of magic:  [roll4]
 
 
 

The picture is clearly magical, and it seems like there are actually two spells on top of each other. The other one has a very weak aura, and even that is slowly fading away, though Tuntematon is not able to tell much else about them.


 After staring at the rock for a few moments, the prophet decided to take a break and comfort his elven companion some.   "Hey, I think I know what might cheer you up, some.  Just give me a second to grab it..."   The centaur reached into a bag on his belt and pulled out a kitten.   "Here, she wants to play with you, but only for a little while."   Tuntematon then handed the kitten to the elf, a big grin on his face. 

The elf accepts the little feline with a puzzled look.  "Did you... pick up a tiny mountain cat to carry with you? Or is it an illusion?"  The kitten lets out a small meow.  "It is...cute." 

------------------

Back at the cave, Stiira takes a few steps towards the entrance.  "Should we... check it out?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I think we should move on, in whatever direction you wish. I heard in another thread that Athedia has had a tough week, I'm sure she'll post when she's able.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Yeah, all those big shadow things have one crystal inside, that appears when they die along with the bones. And you know the live ones won't come close to them? But if you take this from me, one of them will get me for sure! And you said you would leave me alive!"  
 

Asha held a hand out for the necklace, examining it.   "So how did you get the first one?  Or your friend there?  Surely you fought the shadows off once already." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha held a hand out for the necklace, examining it.   "So how did you get the first one?  Or your friend there?  Surely you fought the shadows off once already."  
 

 "Well... Yeah, but not alone. We... had more companions. But they're not here now, and I'm not sure when they'll get back- uh, I mean I might not find them in time." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Well... Yeah, but not alone. We... had more companions. But they're not here now, and I'm not sure when they'll get back- uh, I mean I might not find them in time."  
 

 "So we can expect more to come back? Are they shadow twisters or do they also follow the Betrayer?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So we can expect more to come back? Are they shadow twisters or do they also follow the Betrayer?"  
 

 "Ye-No! I mean..." The halfling has the look of one who knows they have said too much, but after taking a quick glance at Kanok's stern expression, he continues.  "Okay, fine. They're going to come back, but I'm not sure when. Probably not until tomorrow." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Are they shadow twisters or do they also follow the Betrayer?"  
 

 "Huh? Oh, you mean spirit magic like his?",  he nods towards his companion,  "Yeah, most are one or the either. Though I've never seen the elf summon anyone else but the angry one with the horns. Suits his personality, I guess." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Ye-No! I mean..." The halfling has the look of one who knows they have said too much, but after taking a quick glance at Kanok's stern expression, he continues.  "Okay, fine. They're going to come back, but I'm not sure when. Probably not until tomorrow." 
 "Huh? Oh, you mean spirit magic like his?",  he nods towards his companion,  "Yeah, most are one or the either. Though I've never seen the elf summon anyone else but the angry one with the horns. Suits his personality, I guess."  
 

 "So the Devoured works with you as well.  Why are you at this cave?  And why did your friends venture away?  Tell us or we will ambush them on their return." 
Rathgar
 "Well, you could say that I picked it up, but it is no illusion.  That is a real feline, though it isn't from this world.  At least, I don't believe it to be so.  Rather, it is a blessing of Anlin, for Anlin truly works in strange ways.  Hän allows this to let you know that while things may be strange or unexpected, that does not mean that you should necessarily be frightened by them.  After a little while, this little kitten will need to go back home to the lands of the Unknowable, but for now, she wishes to play."   Tuntematon then pointed to the rock.   "As for the form on this rock it does seem unnatural, but somewhat fading in power.  Besides, the unnatural seems to be the norm in these most unusual times." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So the Devoured works with you as well.  Why are you at this cave?  And why did your friends venture away?  Tell us or we will ambush them on their return."  
 

The halfling shrugs.  "I never bothered to learn the names of those things. The elf likes it that it lets him breath fire, thinks it's funny. Personally, I think trusting in the power of some half-crazed spirits makes them mad themselves, but it's not like they have the brains for anything else." 
 "As for where they went, they...",  he scratches his head,  "They went to get more supplies. Food and water. This place is pretty barren, as you can see, and were planning on staying for some time. And didn't I already tell you what we were doing? Just trying to strengthen our magic a bit, you know, for the good of the tribe." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Well, you could say that I picked it up, but it is no illusion.  That is a real feline, though it isn't from this world.  At least, I don't believe it to be so.  Rather, it is a blessing of Anlin, for Anlin truly works in strange ways.  Hän allows this to let you know that while things may be strange or unexpected, that does not mean that you should necessarily be frightened by them.  After a little while, this little kitten will need to go back home to the lands of the Unknowable, but for now, she wishes to play."   Tuntematon then pointed to the rock.   "As for the form on this rock it does seem unnatural, but somewhat fading in power.  Besides, the unnatural seems to be the norm in these most unusual times."  
 

 "That...is quite strange",  Eldien says and pats the kittens head.  "Should we get back to the others then?"  She throws a worried glance at the surroundings.  "I don't like the feeling of this place." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The halfling shrugs.  "I never bothered to learn the names of those things. The elf likes it that it lets him breath fire, thinks it's funny. Personally, I think trusting in the power of some half-crazed spirits makes them mad themselves, but it's not like they have the brains for anything else." 
 "As for where they went, they...",  he scratches his head,  "They went to get more supplies. Food and water. This place is pretty barren, as you can see, and were planning on staying for some time. And didn't I already tell you what we were doing? Just trying to strengthen our magic a bit, you know, for the good of the tribe."  
 

 "Mad?"  Asha let the bird appear again, before sending it off to check on Eldien.   "Those who talk to the Ancestors are not mad, but blessed.  As for your claims, I was seeing if you remembered.  What is here that would let your strengthen your magic?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Mad?"  Asha let the bird appear again, before sending it off to check on Eldien.   "Those who talk to the Ancestors are not mad, but blessed.  As for your claims, I was seeing if you remembered.  What is here that would let your strengthen your magic?"  
 

The halfling's eyes follow the bird as it flies away and he is silent for a moment.  "There's an... old spell here, inside this mountain. We hope to use its power, it's kind of... complicated." 
 
 Spoiler 
Whether you believe him or not, is up to you.
 
Etherion
Aidan looks up from the crystal necklace when the Halfling mentions the spell.

 So, you believed that the cursed mountain, that is surrounded by strangely barren land and shadow creatures, was a suitable power source? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan looks up from the crystal necklace when the Halfling mentions the spell.

 So, you believed that the cursed mountain, that is surrounded by strangely barren land and shadow creatures, was a suitable power source?  
 

 "Well I..."  The halfling is taken aback by the question,  "It wasn't me who thought of it. Our leader, he- she suggested we come here. I don't really know that much about the details, really, or where she had heard of it." 
Seharvepernfan
Without turning around, Kanok speaks up,  "The spell in this mountain is what holds our world together.  Not only will you fail to draw it's power, you will bring your doom and the doom of everything there is."   He seems calmer, more resigned.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Without turning around, Kanok speaks up,  "The spell in this mountain is what holds our world together.  Not only will you fail to draw it's power, you will bring your doom and the doom of everything there is."   He seems calmer, more resigned. 
 

The halfling's eyes widen, and he looks from one party member to the other.  "How- oh...  Can't be... Thought he was just talking nonsense... "  he mutters to himself.

 "Where'd you hear that?"  he asks.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Well I..."  The halfling is taken aback by the question,  "It wasn't me who thought of it. Our leader, he- she suggested we come here. I don't really know that much about the details, really, or where she had heard of it."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The halfling's eyes widen, and he looks from one party member to the other.  "How- oh...  Can't be... Thought he was just talking nonsense... "  he mutters to himself.

 "Where'd you hear that?"  he asks. 
 

Asha watched the halfling attempt to lie, an amused smile dancing on her lips.   "He or she?  Which person is your leader?"   But he had continued to respond to Kanok.  "Don't answer that.  He wants information from us." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha watched the halfling attempt to lie, an amused smile dancing on her lips.   "He or she?  Which person is your leader?"   But he had continued to respond to Kanok.  "Don't answer that.  He wants information from us."  
 

 "She, this elven woman. She's in charge",  the halfling replies hastily,  "The gnoll doesn't like that, but no one likes him, so it doesn't matter." 
 
 Spoiler 
Remember you can always try Sense Motive if you suspect someone is being less than honest with you. It's one of the few checks I'm not asking you to make, but you can roll it whenever you feel like it. (As long as you don't totally spam it, but I don't think any of you would do that.🙂)
 
Rathgar
 "Yeah, you're probably right, nothing good can come of us being left separated from the rest of our group.  Come on, let's go meet up with them."   Tuntematon then extended an arm to help her get back with the others.
Etherion
 Now, earlier you referred to your leader as a he, then you seemed to change your mind. Now, you don't sound particular sincere about that elven woman being your leader, so I suggest you start telling the truth or we might just take your necklace. Could be useful, after all. 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Yeah, you're probably right, nothing good can come of us being left separated from the rest of our group.  Come on, let's go meet up with them."   Tuntematon then extended an arm to help her get back with the others. 
 

Eldien takes Tuntematon's arm for support, and the two head back towards the others. The kitten rides on the elf's shoulder and plays with her hair. Asha can see them approaching through her bird's eyes.

 
 Spoiler 
They get back without trouble.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  Now, earlier you referred to your leader as a he, then you seemed to change your mind. Now, you don't sound particular sincere about that elven woman being your leader, so I suggest you start telling the truth or we might just take your necklace. Could be useful, after all.  
 

 "Wait, wait, okay. The elf woman, Shinden, is in charge of our party here. But she doesn't lead our tribe, Othul does. He's a spirit summoner, and a servant of gods. Shinden uses shadows like me. That's the truth, don't take the crystal." 
Athedia
 "We need to know a few things.  How many are you, both in the tribe and in those coming here?  Where does your tribe live, what area?  Exactly what can your tribe do, the sum of their powers?  Where do they come from, which direction?  Will they leave this area if warned or will we have to bring them down through other means?  Answer these and we will not harm you, but if anyone senses deceit you will wish the shadows got to you first." 
 
 Spoiler 
Tell me what to roll for this
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I think it makes the response most clear if I split this down to sections, even if that might not sound as much like a natural conversation.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "We need to know a few things.  How many are you, both in the tribe and in those coming here?  
 

For a moment the halfling just stares back at Asha, perhaps weighing his options.  "There's seven more",  he finally says,  "that will return here. Back at the tribe...",  he makes a face,  "I don't know... maybe five tens that are of any use." 

  Where does your tribe live, what area?  

 "South of here, and to the west. The area... Hmm, The Plains of Lost Gods, I've heard it called that. Yeah, really attractive name I know." 
 
 Spoiler 
If anyone wants (and has the skill), they can do a knowledge check, Local, History and/or Geography.
 


  Exactly what can your tribe do, the sum of their powers?  

 "Like I said, most either bend shadows or summon those crazy spirits. Of our party here, all but one know at least some of either art. You're not going to ask me to-"  He meets Asha's eyes.  "Fine, fine. But you better let me go afterwards. And WITH the stone!" 

He lets out a deep sigh.  "Okay, who to begin with... Well, for warriors we have an elf, an orc and a bird-man. The elf's got a temper issue. Charges anything without thinking, guess that's why the other elves threw him out, even if he is a deadly fighter. Not much of binder, and he always summons that horned thing."

"You know, its funny when an orc has more patience than an elf. She's only got one hand though, and doesn't know how to summon many spirits. Usually she calls that sneaky elf or that creepy wood thing that rises from the earth."

"The bird-man is weird. He has wings to fly and talks really strange stuff. He's the only one here who hasn't learned any of our magics, but he sure knows how to use a bow."

"The rest then, there's a human shadowcaster, would be kinda good looking if she was a little shorter. Shame. Thinks really high of herself, but is no better than me with the shadow arts."  The halfling looks a little smug, before he's encouraged to continue.

 "Right, well there's one more spirit summoner, a halfling, and he's a total nutcase. Always talking and laughing to himself, and whenever you try to speak to him... Seriously, if you're going to off any of them, do me a favor and start with him."

"And then we have our leader Shinden and the gnoll, Errk. They're both powerful shadowcasters. I'd think twice before challenging them."
 

  Where do they come from, which direction?  

 "Probably from the southwest, can't say for sure, but that's my best guess. There's a route, not really a proper trail, but it's an easier climb, so I  think  they'll come back that way. Unless they have circled much farther east than planned, but they shouldn't have." 

  Will they leave this area if warned or will we have to bring them down through other means?  Answer these and we will not harm you, but if anyone senses deceit you will wish the shadows got to you first."  

The halfling looks back at the binder to see if she's serious. The shudder indicates that he believes her.  "Well, I suppose you could... No, Errk wouldn't hear of it",  slightly reluctantly, he shakes his head,  "No, I don't think they'd leave. Not unless you threatened them with at least two tens of warriors as back up." 
 
 Spoiler: Asha 
You don't get the feeling that he's outright lying about anything, though he might have over or underestimated some things.
 
CWater
When Tuntematon comes back with Eldien, Taesha walks to meet them with them with the strange's backpacks in hand.  "There's some items here that don't look normal to me. Could you take a look?" 
Rathgar
 "I'm not really surprised that there are more strange things, considering what we've found so far together.  Also, Eldien here found something else unusual.  There was some strange magical drawing on a rock, and a shadowy clawmark on it.  I'm guessing the claw mark was from one of the shadow beasts, but as for the strange markings, maybe the halfling would know.

"But anyway, as for those things which you have brought me, allow me to see if I've seen anything else like them in my delving into the strange."   The centaur then said another prayer similar to the one said near the rock, and took the items to examine them.

 
 Spoiler 
Once again, I am going to cast Detect Magic, then try to figure out all I can about them.

Rolls:Rolls:
 Knowledge (Arcana):   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
 Knowledge (Nature):   (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 Knowledge (Religion):   (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
 Knowledge (The Planes):   (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 Spellcraft to discover school of magic:   (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
After identifying the items, the group members divide them between themselves; the halfling makes a face, but doesn't say anything. Soon after they decide to leave the place to continue forward, using the dust they got from the earth prophet to hide their tracks from possible followers. They take the halfling along, who protests a little when Aidan binds his hands, but doesn't try to resist otherwise.

The party travels fast, trying to catch up on the time they spent fighting and questioning, and they make some good progress through the silent mountain. Eventually, the sun starts to go down again, colouring the landscape with an orange tinge.

In the waning light, they spot a black cloud in the distance, not in the sky, but on the ground downhill from them. By comparison, it seems larger than the one they fought in the forest. For a moment it just looms there, still, and the party members get the feeling that its looking right at them, even though it has no visible eyes or even proper shape. But then it starts to drift away in the opposite direction, and soon disappears from sight.  "See? They won't come near the crystals",  the halfling says,  "Now, can I go already?" 

The wanderers keep going for a few more hours, but soon it starts to get properly dark, and the terrain is not forgiving to those who can't see clearly.

 
 Spoiler 
Time to make camp? Is this okay for watch order: Kanok, Aidan, Asha, Tuntematon ?

I don't suppose you are letting the halfling go yet. Tell me, if you decide otherwise.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After identifying the items, the group members divide them between themselves; the halfling makes a face, but doesn't say anything. Soon after they decide to leave the place to continue forward, using the dust they got from the earth prophet to hide their tracks from possible followers. They take the halfling along, who protests a little when Aidan binds his hands, but doesn't try to resist otherwise.

The party travels fast, trying to catch up on the time they spent fighting and questioning, and they make some good progress through the silent mountain. Eventually, the sun starts to go down again, colouring the landscape with an orange tinge.

In the waning light, they spot a black cloud in the distance, not in the sky, but on the ground downhill from them. By comparison, it seems larger than the one they fought in the forest. For a moment it just looms there, still, and the party members get the feeling that its looking right at them, even though it has no visible eyes or even proper shape. But then it starts to drift away in the opposite direction, and soon disappears from sight.  "See? They won't come near the crystals",  the halfling says,  "Now, can I go already?" 

The wanderers keep going for a few more hours, but soon it starts to get properly dark, and the terrain is not forgiving to those who can't see clearly.

 
 Spoiler 
Time to make camp? Is this okay for watch order: Kanok, Aidan, Asha, Tuntematon ?

I don't suppose you are letting the halfling go yet. Tell me, if you decide otherwise.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Order is fine to me
 

 "And run back to your friends?  I don't think so, not yet anyways."   Asha made herself busy settling down and helping Eldien with making food.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts in agreement with Asha.  He then leads the party in a short quest to find a safe and somewhat comfortable camping spot, unlikely to be found by roving beasts.  Once, if, he finds a spot, he takes the time to thoroughly search the halfling for any hidden weapons, tools, or anything he might otherwise try to use to fight or escape with.  Then, once satisfied, he ties the halfling to a nearby tree or rock, in addition to his bindings.  He then volunteers for first watch.

 
 Spoiler 

 Survival (find safe camping spot):   (1d20+15)[ 34 ] 
 Search (take 20):   21
Casts CMW on self.
Sits with nocked bow in one hand, spear in the other.
 
CWater
The party sets up camp and go to sleep, with one of them always staying up to keep watch. The night passes, fortunately uneventful.

 
 Spoiler 
Forgot to mention earlier, but there was the equivalent of 6 portions of food in their backpacks you searched earlier. Therefore you still have reserves for 2 days ahead. (FYI your group consumes 6 portions/day, or 6,5 now unless you're planning on starving the prisoner.)
 


The journey across the mountains resumes its course once the sun is up and shining, though many clouds are gathering far in the southern horizon. The way is mostly downhill today, and the party will soon have passed by the Fifth from the south side.  "Between Fiery Maw and Fifth lies the Dead Valley",  Eldien says,  "if we're in a hurry, I suppose we must cross it, but since we won't reach it until late afternoon, we'd best make camp early and do it tomorrow. Otherwise we'll be walking the whole night to get through, and we cannot rest there! We'll also have to cross Chilling River on the way, though that should not be a problem; roads have been built over it." 

Some time after noon, anyone glancing back in the direction where they came from can spot a large bird flying around in the distance. It's moving roughly in your direction, though not coming straight at you.

 "That's no ordinary bird",  Taesha says squinting her eyes,  "Actually, I'm not sure if it's a bird at all... The shape is different, but I'm not sure what else it could be." 
 
 Spoiler: To do 
Spot checks, if you like.

Also, who is Asha binding today? Any change in Kanok's spells?
I've updated Stiira's spells.

You should also consider, do you want to 1) continue through the Dead Valley today and walk through the night (would be forced marching) 2) continue and camp in the valley despite the elf's protests 3) do as she suggests, make camp early once you reach the edge of the valley and wait for tomorrow.

 
 Spoiler: Area Map 
Ignore the arrow and text that points to the place where you had the second dream. Currently, you are nearing the left side of Fifth.

 
 

 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok glares at the distant bird-creature for a long while.  Eventually, he turns to look west towards Fiery Maw,  "Best to cross during the day.  Undead at night, or the bird-beast in the sun; it is following us.  I choose the bird-beast." 
 
 Spoiler 
 Spot:   (1d20+11)[ 13 ] 

No change in spells; the ones he had were selected with the dead valley in mind.
 
Rathgar
Looking to see if he recognized that bird either from his prior experience or from direct revelation from Anlin, Tuntematon listened to the words of the local elf and the great hunter.   "Well, in better times, I might would agree with the two of you, but these aren't good times.  Though I am accustomed to seeing many unusual things, not so many are as actively bad as these.  Also, we are pressed for time, and our food runs low.  I say we push on and don't make camp till late.  It'll be rough, but what must be done must be done.  Besides, I think the blessings of Anlin might help us some when things get tough and we get tired." 
Etherion
Aidan squints at the flying creature.

 It appears to be... humanoid... I wonder what it could be? Maybe... a raptoran? No, it couldn't be. 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I suppose I too could roll knowledge for the non-PCs.

Stiira
Nature:  (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
History:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 

Taesha
Nature:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 

Eldien
Nature:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan squints at the flying creature.

 It appears to be... humanoid... I wonder what it could be? Maybe... a raptoran? No, it couldn't be.  
 

 "What are those?",  Taesha asks, trying to get better view of the flyer,  "Guess you could be right about the humanoid... What do you say, should we hide? Unless some of you have a good idea of how to drop it if it comes close. Not to sound cruel, but we haven't exactly met much friendly folk on these mountains." 

Their halfling prisoner twitches and shifts his feet uncomfortably.

 "I think... that the winged people used to be friends with the elves here, at least at some time in the past",  Stiira says and looks questioningly at Eldien.
 "I don't know",  the elf says,  "I didn't listen much to the old stories. Maybe they in the Phoenix clan would know more about them than in my old one." 
Etherion
 Well, as I recall they aren't inherently hostile, so it might not be necessary to hide.  
Seharvepernfan
 "It knows we are here, it is only following us so far, and we have little time.  We will fight if we must, but that will be up to it.  Let's go." 
Rathgar
 "Well, if he were going to go and alert either his kind or our prisoner's band, he would likely have turned around by now to get them.  If they turn out to be friendly, it may be good to trade with them.  We could really use the food." 
CWater
The not-bird circles in the air for some time, but never comes too close to the party. Then it turns around and flies back towards the Fifth.

The wanderers continues their decent towards the valley, and after they pass the last smaller peak they can see the large grey plain that stretches between them and the other high mountain in the west. The valley looks even more barren that what the Fifth was, and appears to have few significant landmarks.

 "Clouds of dust sometimes rise up there",  Eldien says,  "covering the sky so you don't know where you're going. They can also make it harder to breathe. And they say...",  the elf shakes her head,  "... I really wouldn't want to be there when it's dark. Although",  she smiles just a little,  "I didn't want to go to the cursed mountain either, and yet we lived." 

EDIT:
 
 Spoiler 
Do you want to continue today, or wait for tomorrow?

A Survival checks will be required to find your way in either case, though the DC is higher in the dark.
 
Rathgar
Seeing the avianesque being fly off towards the Fifth, Tuntematon's hopes shifted quickly to fear.   "On second thought, he is now going back in a direction that might be very bad for us.  First, though, before we get too hasty about things, let's ask our halfling 'guest' what he knows." 

The prophet then grabbed the spirals around his neck and turned to the halfing prisoner.   "Tell us, did any of your group happen to be bird people?  Please answer truthfully, for Anlin blesses me with strange miracles.  Just how strange, you do not want to know.  Also, if you answer truthfully, we will not abandon you before our destination." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing the avianesque being fly off towards the Fifth, Tuntematon's hopes shifted quickly to fear.   "On second thought, he is now going back in a direction that might be very bad for us.  First, though, before we get too hasty about things, let's ask our halfling 'guest' what he knows." 

The prophet then grabbed the spirals around his neck and turned to the halfing prisoner.   "Tell us, did any of your group happen to be bird people?  Please answer truthfully, for Anlin blesses me with strange miracles.  Just how strange, you do not want to know.  Also, if you answer truthfully, we will not abandon you before our destination."  
 

 "Yeah, we have one birdman. The only one who don't know any shadow or spirit tricks",  the halfling replies, sounding s little smug,  "But 'course, can't tell from this distance if that was him." 
Seharvepernfan
 "Foolish to think it's not."   He turns to Asha, then speaks in different tongue,  "(Giant) We could bait it with the halfling; leave him behind at some point when we are really hiding nearby.  It might come to take him.  I will carry him too far to hear you; speak of it to the others then."   Speaking to the group as a whole again,  "We should go." 

He throws the halfling over his left shoulder, regardless of protests, then begins walking down towards the valley, his spear in his other hand.
Athedia
Asha repeated Kanok's message as soon as he was further away.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha repeated Kanok's message as soon as he was further away. 
 

...as well as she can while also hopping from one foot to the other, the result from binding the enthusiastic Paimon again.

Soon after the party descends to the valley, and Kanok puts the protesting halfling back to the ground.  "You going to keep me bound while we walk through here too?! Haven't you heard the rumours?!" 

A layer of dust covers the ground, growing thicker as they travel further into the area. Some of it is rised to the air by the occasional burst of wind.

 
 Spoiler 
The dust doesn't hinder movement, though does limit visibility. Side-effects may include sneezing, coughing and itching eyes and/or ears.

Alrigth, time for some Survival checks, please make two at this time. Let me know if they're to Aid Another.
 
Seharvepernfan
 "You can make sure." , says the burly caveman whilst scanning the dusty waste.  He calls up Fang to stay close.

 
 Spoiler 

 Survival:   (1d20+15)[ 22 ] 
 Survival:   (1d20+15)[ 31 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Survival:  (1d20)[ 10 ] 
Survival:  (1d20)[ 13 ] 
 


Asha traveled a little behind the group, unable to stop fidgeting.  That did not help with the dust that ended up being kicked up by her feet.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  "You can make sure." , says the burly caveman whilst scanning the dusty waste.  He calls up Fang to stay close. 
 

 "You know what its called right? If there's any truth to the rumours, then that's not just because nothing grows here. There're ancient loose dead walking here. And with no one to control them, they're a danger to the still breathing. Bet your elf could tell you many local stories",  the halfling nods towards Eldien.
 
"I was not a story-teller",  the elf replies,  "and even if that is. We kept those tales as stories by staying away from the place unless we really had to come here. And whatever the danger, it is smaller during the day." 
 "Yeah? And what was today's plan again? So are you going to give me my hands back, so I can defend myself if it comes to that?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Thought Eldien deserved to have her own colour, after being around for so long.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha traveled a little behind the group, unable to stop fidgeting.  That did not help with the dust that ended up being kicked up by her feet. 
 

  ...and such a great open space! C'mon, wouldn't you make a little twirl? Spin? Just for me?   The pleading spirit attempted to sound charming.
Athedia
Asha growled as her feet wouldn't stop moving.    I am going to bind you and stay still for an entire day someday.  See how you like that.  
Seharvepernfan
 "No.  Keep your mouth shut and your eyes open."   Kanok replies, still walking and looking away.
CWater
The Dead Valley seems to be an awfully boring place to wander through. After the last hills have fallen behind, there is just bare ashen plains in every other direction, and the annoying dust that the air is full of, prevents them from seeing the mountains far ahead. Also, it gets everywhere, and the shorter halflings sneeze and cough more than once too.

Still, with Kanok in the lead, they hold their course by keeping an eye on the sun and its position. After a few hours of travelling in the wasteland, they spot the first discernible shape in the valley. A tall rock, standing alone in the middle of the flat land.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot and Listen checks, please.
 
Rathgar
Straining to see anything in the wastes, Tuntematon was surprised when the tall stone showed up.  Wondering if it had a purpose, the  prophet said a prayer to Anlin to help him discern its strange properties, if any.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Detect Magic and examining the rock, assuming we don't get jumped by something before I have time.

Rolls:
 Concentration (If Needed Due to Conditions):   (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Check results 
 
 Spoiler: Listen DC 15 
The sound of a sorrowful wail is coming from the direction of the rock. It sounds more like a humanoid than animal.

 
 Spoiler: Listen DC 25 
Though it has some odd pitch to it. Occasionally, and just for the shortest moment, the wail turns gruff and rasping.
 

 

 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 20 
A hunched figure is sitting right next to the rock. Looks like a medium sized humanoid.
 


I'll reply to Tuntematon's other rolls if you move closer. Let's say you're about 2000 ft. from the rock atm.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 18 ] 
Spot: (1d20+1)[ 14 ] 
 


Asha let the bone spike stab out from her hand.   "No good, no good person is out in these wastes crying." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns hard, almost as if insulted.  He grunts in agreement with Asha,  "We will go around." 
He begins to lead the party in a wide circle around the distant rock.
CWater
The party changes their course slightly, so that they get no closer to the rock at any point. But when they are passing it, they see a humanoid figure rise up to stand next to the rock and after a moment it starts to walk in their direction.

 
 Spoiler 
Your distance to it is still roughly 2000 ft. You can make a second Spot check, if you like.
 
CWater
All the dust in the air makes it more difficult to discern details than usual.

 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 10 
The figure is dressed in ragged clothes, and walks with its back hunched, its weight wavering from side to side with every step as if it was very weak.

 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 20 
First it looks like the humanoid is holding something in its hands, before you realize that it actually has unnaturally long claws, almost the length of half its arms. There's also something just  wrong  with its face.
 

 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 30 
Part of the skin on its face is gone, especially around its mouth.
 

 


Another similar figure comes to view from behind the rock and starts to follow the first one towards the party.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok peers at the approaching beings,  "Undead.  Like none I know.  Let's go, quickly!"   He picks up the bound halfling and throws him across Tunta's back, then moves to Eldien and throws her over his shoulder.  He then begins to hustle.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira can ride Fang, if she likes.
 
CWater
Eldien is getting quite used to being throws over a shoulder when they are in a hurry, so she makes no protest. The halfling is surprisingly also silent of such treatment, having spotted the approaching figures.

When the party makes haste, so do the creatures. A cloud of dust twirls around them as they run over the barren land.

 
 Spoiler 
Does Tuntematon want to try leading them away?
 
Seharvepernfan
Seeing the undead begin to run, Kanok growls in frustration.  He waves for the group to stop, then sits Eldien down.  Moving over to Stiira and Fang, he asks for three of her sling stones.  He quickly incants a simple spell over the stones, waving his hand over them in a few swift passes.   "Use these when they catch up.  Tunta, Aidan, let's go send them a few stones and arrows.  The rest of you, keep moving until they get close, then form a ring."   He tries to instruct Fang to guard Stiira, then puts away his spear for his bow, and begins running towards the encroaching undead.

 
 Spoiler 

edit:  casts magic stones on stiira's sling stones

Telling Fang to "defend" Stiira.
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 

Here's what Kanok will do:  Run up until he is 4 rounds from the undead, that is, far enough away that it will take then 4 rounds of running to get to him.  He will then full attack with his bow until they are one round away, then he will begin sprinting away until either he is four rounds away again, or he catches up to the group.  Assuming the undead have a speed of 30, it will take him 12 rounds.  Also, if they are actually running, they lose their dex bonus to AC, so they should be a bit easier to hit.

Aidan shouldn't do this, because his speed is 30.  However, he has a longbow and therefor greater range.  He could run until he is, say, 7 rounds away, and start firing until they are, say, 3 rounds away, then catch up to the group and use whatever remaining time he has to shoot some more.

Tunta can basically do what he wants; they simply have no hope of catching him.  With a few castings of magic stones, he might just end the encounter before the undead ever get to us.
 
Athedia
Asha slipped her arm under Eldien helping her limp as fast as she could.   "Be careful." 
Rathgar
Realizing that withdrawal is no longer an option, Tuntematon said a prayer to Anlin, and then three of his stones suddenly took the shape and appearance of Opaline goats.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Magic Stone and preparing for combat, will throw a bag of tricks animal at them next "round"
 
CWater
Stiira stutters a hasty thank you and it seems like she's going to continue, but Taesha loudly orders her to move and grabs the other halfling to carry.

Two more ominous figure stand up in the distance and start to run after the first two.

 
 Spoiler 
Seems like staying away from the rock was a good idea.

Eldien cannot Run even with help, but she can ride piggyback. It will encumber Asha like carrying the halfling slows Taesha, but this part of the party will have a base speed of 20 ft. in any case.

I thought about what you said you wanted to do, and interpreted like this:
 


Being the fastest of the group, Kanok and Tuntematon run up to meet the approaching threat. Aidan follows a little slower behind them. Once the enemies are in range, Kanok and Aidan begin firing arrows and Tuntematon slings rocks at them. When the undead are getting  too  close, they back away to gain some distance. With his enhanced speed Tuntematon can run back and forth for a few times.

Up close, the creature doesn't look that much like a living humanoid anymore. The closest one was probably a female elf once, by the look of the ears, but most of the face has been torn of and long claws have grown on both hands.
 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 


The second undead is shorter and bulkier and has the remnants of a beard, perhaps a former dwarf.

 
 Spoiler 
In the next 15 rounds (the time it takes before those that have been running non-stop need to start making Con checks), this is how many attacks each can make and at what penalties, how many rounds they have been running for, and at what distance they are to the closest enemy at the end:
(this took some calculating and estimating, but here's what I got)

 Kanok 
5 full-attacks with penalties: -12,-10,-8,-4,-2
Has run: 10/16 rounds
125 ft. from closest undead (assuming it hasn't been slain)

 Aidan 
7 attacks with penalties: -18,-18,-16,-14,-12,-10,-8
Has run: 4/14 rounds
365 ft. from closest undead (assuming it hasn't been slain)
(I assumed he wanted to save his stamina, and only approached the undead with double moves instead of running; and that he moved away from them after every attack (since he doesn't have a ranged full attack).)

 Tuntematon 
9 attacks with penalties: 3x(-6), 3x(-4), 3x(-2)
Has run: 6/14 rounds
40 ft. from closest undead (assuming it hasn't been slain)

 Asha  &amp; others
1100 ft. from closest undead (assuming it hasn't been slain), 735 ft. away from Aidan
Con checks if they want to keep running, except Taesha who start to roll next turn
They can of course voluntarily slow down, stop, or do something else too.

Let me know if you'd want to do something differently, otherwise feel free to roll the attacks, etc! I know this is a lot of rounds done at once, but since it's just running in 1D and attacks (and no counter attacks from the enemies) I think it's best to roll them all at the same time. I'll sort them out later.

If anything is unclear, please ask!
 
Seharvepernfan
Sliding to a stop in the dust, Kanok begins drawing arrows to his bow and loosing as fast as he can, trying to correct his aim after each shot.  Half a score of arrows fly from his bow before he turns to run.

 
 Spoiler 

Rapid shot for two arrows each turn.

 Shortbow:   (1d20-7)[ -1 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-7)[ -3 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-5)[ 3 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-5)[ 3 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-3)[ 8 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-3)[ -2 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-1)[ 18 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20-1)[ 13 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20+1)[ 4 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan also skirmishes with the undead, shooting a few times why doing his best to keep his distance.

 
 Spoiler: attacks 
 (1d20-2)[ 4 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon attempts to keep the nasty things at bay by launching first by tossing a weasel at them, then by launching sling stones.

 
 Spoiler 
O.K., now for the massive battery of rolls.  Saving the Magic Stones for the later shots.  Also, commanding the weasel to charge at them, that might buy us a little more time.

 First Shot With Sling:   (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 Second Shot With Sling:   (1d20+3)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 Third Shot With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 Fourth Shot With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 Fifth Shot With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 Damage With Magic Stone:   (2d6+2)[ 6 ] 
 Sixth Shot With Sling:   (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
 Damage With Magic Stone:   (2d6+2)[ 9 ] 
 Seventh Shot With Sling:   (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
 Damage With Magic Stone:   (2d6+2)[ 10 ] 
 Eighth Shot With Sling:   (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
 Damage With Magic Stone:   (2d6+2)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
The charging undead hardly to notices the weasel, but Tuntematon gets a few good hits with the couple of first slingstones. Kanok finds himself to be a bit rusty with the bow, and only one of his arrows does more than scrape the undead, though the creature doesn't seem much affected by it. Aidan also lands only one solid blow, but it hits a spot already hammered by the slingstones and the first undead collapses to the ground.

With the second husk starting to get close, Kanok and Aidan start running again to keep their distance. Tuntematon makes few more attacks, and the blessed bullets burn the second undead when they hit, bringing it down as well.

Only two creatures are after them now.

 
 Spoiler 
Well, good job! That plan paid off.🙂

Third undead is 100 ft. farher away that the first would have been, so your distances to it are:
Kanok: 225 ft.
Aidan: 285 ft.
Tuntematon: 110 ft. (he stayed a little behind to attack the second)
Rest of the party: 1200 ft.

The fourth enemy one is 60 ft. behind the third.

A change to the last post, Aidan has been running for 2 rounds, not 4.

 We'll do the rest of the combat normally, one round at a time, from here. 
Asha, Stiira and Fang must make Con checks, DC 10, if they want to keep running.
Stiira:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan takes aim and fires an arrow at the pursuing undead, then continues moving away.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Unless I'm mistaken, it's a -6 penalty at this range. Also, moving 30 ft away, which should put me at 315.
[roll] 1d20+3[/roll]
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Noticing that the first two have fallen, Kanok skids to a stop, spins, and begins sending arrows at the nearest cadaver.

 
 Spoiler 

Kanok makes a full attack at the nearest undead, then adjusts away from it (every little bit helps).

 Shortbow:   (1d20+1)[ 5 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20+1)[ 13 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 

I don't think Fang needs to, actually, since he's probably not actually running.  With a double move, he goes 80ft; how fast is Eldien being moved each round?  And wasn't Stiira riding Fang?  I'll roll anyway in case I'm wrong.
 Fang Constitution:   (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
 
Rathgar
Seeing two of the fiends fall from the party's volleys, Tuntematon let loose one more sling stone at them, then continued his withdrawal.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack with sling
Move Action: Move away as far as possible

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry for the delay, I've been too busy again. :(
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan takes aim and fires an arrow at the pursuing undead, then continues moving away.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Unless I'm mistaken, it's a -6 penalty at this range. Also, moving 30 ft away, which should put me at 315.
[roll] 1d20+3[/roll]
[roll0]
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
-4 actually, since its two full range increments (if you move after the attack). Not that it makes a difference with a natural 20.😛
 

The arrow hits the undead solidly in the chest.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Noticing that the first two have fallen, Kanok skids to a stop, spins, and begins sending arrows at the nearest cadaver.

 
 Spoiler 

Kanok makes a full attack at the nearest undead, then adjusts away from it (every little bit helps).

 Shortbow:   [roll0]
 Damage:   [roll1]

 Shortbow:   [roll2]
 Damage:   [roll3]

I don't think Fang needs to, actually, since he's probably not actually running.  With a double move, he goes 80ft; how fast is Eldien being moved each round?  And wasn't Stiira riding Fang?  I'll roll anyway in case I'm wrong.
 Fang Constitution:   [roll4]
 
 
 

Kanok's arrows only scrape the skin of the foul creature.

 
 Spoiler 
You're right, Fang moves fast enough with double moves, so no need for Con checks.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing two of the fiends fall from the party's volleys, Tuntematon let loose one more sling stone at them, then continued his withdrawal.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack with sling
Move Action: Move away as far as possible

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:  [roll0]
 Damage:  [roll1]
 
 
 

Tuntematon lands one more blow to the undead, though it continues to pursue the men.

-----------
Far ahead, Taesha throws a glance over her shoulder and slides to a stop. She puts the halfling down.  "They... might need... help",  she says, panting after all the running,  "I'll... go back. Look after them, Asha!"  She gestures at the smaller folk (and probably Eldien too), then starts to run back towards the fight. Stiira makes a face that she doesn't appreciate being treated like a child.

 
 Spoiler 
The undead keep running towards them. Distance to the closest one:

Kanok: 110 ft.
Aidan: 195 ft.
Tuntematon: 60 ft.
Taesha: 1050 ft.
Asha &amp; others: 1080 ft.

 Party's turn. 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns while putting another arrow to his bow.  He exhales, aims, and releases, then turns to run.

 
 Spoiler 

 Shortbow:   (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

Moves 40ft away.
 
Etherion
Aidan fires another arrow at his pursuer.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Shoot, then move 30ft away.
 (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Far ahead, Taesha throws a glance over her shoulder and slides to a stop. She puts the halfling down.  "They... might need... help",  she says, panting after all the running,  "I'll... go back. Look after them, Asha!"  She gestures at the smaller folk (and probably Eldien too), then starts to run back towards the fight. Stiira makes a face that she doesn't appreciate being treated like a child.

 
 Spoiler 
The undead keep running towards them. Distance to the closest one:

Kanok: 110 ft.
Aidan: 195 ft.
Tuntematon: 60 ft.
Taesha: 1050 ft.
Asha &amp; others: 1080 ft.

 Party's turn. 
 
 
 

Asha looked at Stiira and Eldien.   "Look after you?"  She looked back at the group and then down again at Stiira.  "We need to be able to go faster."   Asha sat down and concentrated.    Paimon, look.  I will summon you again.  I promise.  I just... need more speed right now."  
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+7)[ 23 ]  vs DC 20

EDIT: Okay it was a successful expelling and now she is going to bind Andras.  She has -20 to this pact so there is no way for her to pass.  -10 from expel and -10 from a rushed pact.
 
CWater
This time Kanok's arrow sinks deep to the undead's chest, though for some reason it seems to bother it less than the hits that were fired from enchanted weapons.

 
 Spoiler 
Going to be nice and spell it out, yes, it has DR/magic.
Though I'm not specifying how high at this point.

Also, as we are in combat, if you havent' responded in 24h I might go for you.
 


Tuntematon refrains from attacking at the moment, and concentrates his efforts to put dome distance between himself and the creatures, who relentlessly continue their pursuit.

Taesha is still running back towards them, but is still far.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked at Stiira and Eldien.   "Look after you?"  She looked back at the group and then down again at Stiira.  "We need to be able to go faster."   Asha sat down and concentrated.    Paimon, look.  I will summon you again.  I promise.  I just... need more speed right now."  
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+2)[ 22 ]  vs DC 20

EDIT: Okay it was a successful expelling and now she is going to bind Andras.  She has -20 to this pact so there is no way for her to pass.  -10 from expel and -10 from a rushed pact.
 
 
 

  Aww... Alright, but next time we will dance all day long!   And with those words, Paimon is gone. Pressed for time, Asha doesn't have the time to converse with the new vestige as usual. She only hears the sound of galloping hooves and the brief glimpse of an owl-like face, before she can sense the vestige's presence being bound to her soul.

  Terms accepted. Pact made.  
A pair of of small and grubby grey wings burst out of the binder's back.

Just a moment later she hears Stiira scream,  "Asha! He's getting away!" 
The halfling has chosen this moment to attempt escape. Hands still bound, he sprints away as fast as he can. Stiira runs after him, and by using a charge from her boots moves past him to stand in his way.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira's Con check:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 

Distance to the undead:
Kanok: 30 ft.
Aidan: 105 ft.
Tuntematon: max 220 ft. (Rathgar, you can choose any point within this range.)
Taesha: 810 ft.
Asha &amp; Eldien: 960 ft.
Stiira &amp; halfling: 960 ft. + geometry

The halfling and Stiira are 80 ft. from Asha and Eldien.

 Party's turn,  for everyone else but Asha. (Expelling and binding took 2 rounds.)
 
Rathgar
The centaur continued to fight and withdraw, fight and withdraw.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack with sling
Move Action: Run away

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 2 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan briefly pauses to fire yet another, then continues moving away.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Shoot:
 (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 

Move 30 ft away.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok continues running away from the arrow-riddled corpse.

 
 Spoiler 
Runs 160ft.
 
CWater
Aidan adds one more arrow to the undead's chest, but while it staggers a bit after impact, it stil doesn't stop.

The halfling runs past Stiira, and the witch stabs him with a dagger, but it's just a scratch.
 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 1 ] 

Stiira's Con check to keep running:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ]  DC 11
 

 "Stop!",  Stiira shouts and runs after him again.

 
 Spoiler: Distances 
Taesha's Con check:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ]  DC 11

To the undead:
Kanok: 70 ft.
Aidan: 15 ft.
Tuntematon: 145 ft.
Taesha: 470 ft.
Asha &amp; Eldien: 840 ft.
Stiira &amp; halfling: 840 ft. + geometry

The halfling and Stiira are 160 ft. from Asha and Eldien.

 Party's turn , for everyone this time.
 
Athedia
Asha slapped her hand down on the ground.   "Andras! Grant me your steed!"   
 Spoiler 
Summoning the horse, exists for hrs = to effective binder level (7).  Heavy warhorse w/ saddle and lance
 
CWater
The half of the party continues to retreat, Tuntematon throws one more rock over his shoulder at the closest enemy.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 

The hit snaps the corpse's head back and it takes a few staggering steps, but then resumes pursuit.

Taesha stops running for the moment, considering the situation. She hasn't noticed the second chase scene ongoing behind her.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha slapped her hand down on the ground.   "Andras! Grant me your steed!"   
 Spoiler 
Summoning the horse, exists for hrs = to effective binder level (7).  Heavy warhorse w/ saddle and lance
 
 
 

A grey horse trots into view from thin air, first transparent, but turns fully solid when it reaches Asha.

The halfling runs away again and Stiira strikes him as he passes, cutting him a little more deeply this time.
Still, he continues to flee with the witch on his tail.
 
 Spoiler 
AoO
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 3 ] 
Con check:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ]  DC 12

Distance to the undead:
Kanok: 110 ft.
Aidan: 15 ft.
Tuntematon: 95 ft.
Taesha: 350 ft.
Asha &amp; Eldien: 720 ft.
Stiira &amp; halfling: 720 ft. + geometry

Stiira and the halfling are 240 ft. from Asha and Eldien.

 Party's turn. 
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon continued to sling stone after stone at the pursuers, praying that they would cease.

 
 Spoiler 
Still doing the move and attack thing

Rolls:
 Attack with Sling:   (1d20+7)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok slows his run while pulling out his spear, then stops completely to stow his bow.

 
 Spoiler 
Move 40ft while drawing shortspear.
Stow bow.
 
Etherion
Aidan runs to take up a position behind Kanok.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Run 120 ft, putting me 10 ft behind him.
 
CWater
Tuntematon strikes true again and this time the slingstone knocks of half the creature's head and it crumbles down to the dust.

Taesha resumes running towards the fight.

 
 Spoiler 
Taesha' Con check:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ]  DC 12

Asha's turn.
Btw, forgot to say that you can roll Knowledge: Religion about the undead.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, meetings all day
 


Asha looked down at Eldien.   "I have too.  He can't escape."   With that she pulled herself into the horses leather saddle and kicked its sides, setting off after the halfling.
CWater
The halfling glances over his shoulder when he hears the galloping hooves, and his eyes widen. The stops, trying to get his hands free.

 
 Spoiler 
Escape Artist:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Aidan's Use Rope:  (1d20+13)[ 27 ]  (includes the +10)
 

But the rope is tied too well.

Stiira uses the opportunity and tries to grab the halfling.
 
 Spoiler: Grapple 
Would you look at that, a caster trying to grapple... The halfling is unarmed (and likely still bound), so he doesn't get AoOs.

Touch attack:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
if successful
Stiira's grapple check:  (1d20-4)[ 1 ] 
Opposed grapple check:  (1d20-4)[ 2 ] 
if she manages to get a hold, then I suppose she can also try to punch him, not that it does much
Unarmed attack:  (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
 

Still, even bound, the halfling is too swift an dodge's the clumsy attempt.

 
 Spoiler: Distancies 
The fourth undead was 60 ft. behind the third. It is the only one left following you.

Kanok: 90 ft.
Aidan: 75 ft.
Tuntematon: 105 ft.
Taesha: 170 ft.
Eldien: 660 ft.

Asha, Stiira &amp; halfling: 660 ft. + geometry

Stiira and the halfling are  190 ft. from Asha*, 240 ft. from Eldien.
*Mounting a horse is a standard action, I think.

 Party's turn. 
 
Rathgar
Realizing he's out of stones, Tuntematon pulled an angry bobcat from out of his bag and threw it the sole remaining aggressor.

 
 Spoiler 
Using a Standard action to throw the cat 20 feet towards the undead, then directing it to attack.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok suddenly stops, spins, and charges headlong back at the pursuing undead, spear gripped in both hands.  Nearing the creature, he jabs the spear through it's dead heart.

 
 Spoiler 

It is actually 10ft outside his charge range.  Can we say that he waits until it's 10ft closer before acting?  Assuming it does come closer at all.  If not, he'll just move a bit closer this round and take the following action on his next turn, if nothing blocks his path.

Charge
 Shortspear:   (1d20+13)[ 32 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan turns and fire yet another arrow.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Preferably before Kanok charges in.
 (1d20+9)[ 29 ] 
[roll1d8+1[/roll]
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Realizing he's out of stones, Tuntematon pulled an angry bobcat from out of his bag and threw it the sole remaining aggressor.

 
 Spoiler 
Using a Standard action to throw the cat 20 feet towards the undead, then directing it to attack.
 
 
 

The cat lets out a loud  "Mrreow!!"  and charges towards the undead abomination.

 
 Spoiler 
Doesn't quite reach it this round yet.

Taesha's Con:  (1d20+3)[ 7 ]  DC 13
 

Taesha is still running towards them, but she's finally starting to run out of breath and is slowed down.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan turns and fire yet another arrow.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Preferably before Kanok charges in.
 (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
[roll1d8+1[/roll]
 
 
 

The arrow sink into the running corpse's shoulder.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok suddenly stops, spins, and charges headlong back at the pursuing undead, spear gripped in both hands.  Nearing the creature, he jabs the spear through it's dead heart.

 
 Spoiler 

It is actually 10ft outside his charge range.  Can we say that he waits until it's 10ft closer before acting?  Assuming it does come closer at all.  If not, he'll just move a bit closer this round and take the following action on his next turn, if nothing blocks his path.

Charge
 Shortspear:   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Damage:   (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
A reasonable adjustment. Let's say he moved 10 ft. less last round, that should allow him to charge,
 


Kanok impales the undead husk, and its dry body swings back and forth. Its corroded features suggest that it was a male elf once, but now it stares back at him with with empty eye sockets that contain a single glowing green spark.  "Wh-ater...",  the corpse croaks and lashes him with its long claws.

 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Claw:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

Claw:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+2)[ 6 ] 

If either of the claws hit:
Grapple check:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 


------------------

Asha chases after the halflings, and Andras' mount gets her to them very quickly. The shadowcaster halfling backs away carefully, eyes now fully on Asha. Stiira takes the moment to catch her breath.

 
 Spoiler 
Assumed from Athedia's last post that Asha would use this round to catch up with them.

Distance to undead: (mostly same as last round as it didn't move)
Kanok: 0 ft.
Aidan: 75 ft.
Tuntematon: 105 ft.
Taesha: 110 ft.
Eldien: 660 ft.

Asha, Stiira &amp; halfling: 660 ft. + geometry

The halfling is 40 ft., Stiira is right next to Asha, and they are 240 ft. from Eldien.

 Party's turn.  Remember that ranged attacks at the undead have a -4 penalty from being in melee.
 
Athedia
 "Come back here, before I have to run you down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Intimidate:  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
 


Asha spoke as she offered a hand to Stiira to help her onto the horse.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Ah, wasn't paying enough attention to details again.

In my defence, I've got fever and my head's all mushy.
 


One of the creatures claws cuts a deep wound to Kanok's shoulder and then it grabs a hold of the bleeding spot. The warrior can feel how the area is starting to go numb.

 
 Spoiler 
It's technically draining moisture, not drinking blood specifically, in case you're curious.

Damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
 


EDIT:

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Come back here, before I have to run you down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Intimidate:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
 


Asha spoke as she offered a hand to Stiira to help her onto the horse. 
 

Stiira climbs up to sit behind Asha. The halfling stares back at them, trying to look angry, but doesn't quite succeed in hiding his fear of being trampled. He curses and starts to walk back to them.
Seharvepernfan
Growing furious with his own foolish actions and the consequences for them, Kanok growls, flexing his muscles and using all his might to throw his attacker off.

 
 Spoiler 

Rage.

 Anti-Grapple to escape Grapple:   (1d20+10)[ 13 ] 
Activate Force Shield.
If successful, move 40ft away, giving others a clear shot.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Opposed grapple 
 (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 


The undead creature maintains its hold.
Etherion
Aidan carefully aims at the undead creature attacking Kanok, and lets loose another arrow.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
The arrow pierces the corpse's neck and gets stuck there. It lets out a gruff sound and shakes its head.

The cat runs up to the creature and jumps up to claw its back.
 
 Spoiler 
Not rolling, as the feline doesn't really have a chance to harm it.
 


Tuntematon moves closer to the ongoing battle. Taesha follows him, but is clearly out of breath.

The undead tries to maintain its hold on Kanok's wound. The glow in its eyes seem brighter now that it has drained some of the living creature's blood.
 
 Spoiler 
Grapple check:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
if successful
Damage:  (2d6)[ 5 ] 
 Party's turn. 
Same distances as before except that Tuntematon can be how close to the grapplers as he wants and Taesha is 50 ft. away.
 
Seharvepernfan
Furiously struggling to get out of the creature's evil grip, Kanok twists and turns and pushes off the ground as hard as he can.

 
 Spoiler 

 Anti-grapple for the creature's last turn:   (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 
 Anti-grapple to get away on his turn:   (1d20+10)[ 13 ] 
If successful, move 40ft away diagonally.
 
Athedia
Asha escorted the halfling back to Eldien, helping Stiira off the horse as they arrived.   "Both of you, get Eldien further away."   Grabbing the long lance from her side she offered a prayer to Andras.  She should be able to do this, it was just a giant spear.

 
 Spoiler 
Not sure how many rounds this takes
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Furiously struggling to get out of the creature's evil grip, Kanok twists and turns and pushes off the ground as hard as he can.

 
 Spoiler 

 Anti-grapple for the creature's last turn:   (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 Anti-grapple to get away on his turn:   [roll1]
If successful, move 40ft away diagonally.
 
 
 

The creature holds on tight and drains more moisture out of him.

 
 Spoiler 
No luck on the first.
Opposed grapple:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha escorted the halfling back to Eldien, helping Stiira off the horse as they arrived.   "Both of you, get Eldien further away."   Grabbing the long lance from her side she offered a prayer to Andras.  She should be able to do this, it was just a giant spear.

 
 Spoiler 
Not sure how many rounds this takes
 
 
 

Asha lifts up the halfling on the horse too, then directs it to gallop back to where Eldien is waiting.  "And no running away this time!",  Stiira adds to the other halfling when they are back on the ground,  "Asha will catch you again." 
  A prayer to me?   Andras speaks to Asha's mind.   How curious.  
 
 Spoiler 
All in all 3 rounds by my calculation, so two in addition to this. I'll put in a note when the other's time catches up.

For now, Aidan and Tuntematon's turn.
 
Rathgar
Seeing his companion in danger, Tuntematon ran up and prayed a prayer of a new miracle just recently revealed unto him by Anlin.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to within 35 feet of the monster, then use a Swift action to cast Close Wounds.

Rolls:
 Close Wounds:   (2d4+4)[ 6 ] 
 Spell Resistance (If Needed):   (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
DC 14 Will Save for half
 
Rathgar
The centaur then launched a close ranged sling bullet into the fray.

 
 Spoiler 
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 
Etherion
Seeing the monster was still latched onto Kanok, even after Tuntematon's aid, Aidan fires another arrow at it.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing his companion in danger, Tuntematon ran up and prayed a prayer of a new miracle just recently revealed unto him by Anlin.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to within 35 feet of the monster, then use a Swift action to cast Close Wounds.

Rolls:
 Close Wounds:   (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 Spell Resistance (If Needed):   (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
DC 14 Will Save for half
 
 
 

The positive energy burns the undead's skin, though is still doesn't loosen its grip on its target. The hurled stone misses both combatants.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Seeing the monster was still latched onto Kanok, even after Tuntematon's aid, Aidan fires another arrow at it.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry for the confusion about this matter. It appears there is a 50% chance of targeting either grappler with a ranged attack. This attack has no chance of hurting Kanok (won't beat his AC), but it might hit the undead since it has lost its Dex to non-grappler's attacks.
1= Kanok, 2=undead
 (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 

In the midst of grappling, Kanok is moved to the arrow's path, but it just harmlessly scrapes his armour.

Taesha finally catches up with the others and their new acquaintance.

The thirsty undead continues to drain moisture from Kanok.
 
 Spoiler 
Grapple:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
if succesful
Damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 

Kanok has taken 30 damage in total + possibly the above.

 Party's turn , except Asha.
 
Seharvepernfan
His skin beginning to split and crack from dehydration, his throat burning, Kanok continues his struggle to just escape the horrid creature.

 
 Spoiler 

 Grapple to escape:   (1d20+10)[ 14 ] 
 Grapple to resist damage:   (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 

Move 40ft if successful.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 His skin beginning to split and crack from dehydration, his throat burning, Kanok continues his struggle to just escape the horrid creature.

 
 Spoiler 

 Grapple to escape:   (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 Grapple to resist damage:   [roll1]

Move 40ft if successful.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
No damage taken.
Opposed grapple:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
The undead's grip loosen's for a tiny moment, and Kanok yanks himself free, immediately trying back away from the creature.  "Nh-oo.." , the corpse croaks and reaches after him with its long claws.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
if successful
Grapple:  (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 

One more grapple check please.
Kanok is at 8/47 HP (18/57 while raging).
 


They cut a new wound to Kanok's back, but fail to get a hold of him again.
Etherion
After Kanok escapes the creature's grasp, Aidan fires at it yet again.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 After Kanok escapes the creature's grasp, Aidan fires at it yet again.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

The creature's chest is decorated by one more arrow, yet it remains standing.

 
 Spoiler 
It got a pretty tasty drink.

Tuntematon's turn.
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon let loose yet another sling stone, then said yet another prayer to stop the creature.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Fire Sling
Swift Action: Cast Close Wounds on the creature

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 Close Wounds Damage:   (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 
 Spell Resistance (If Needed):   (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
DC 14 Will Save for half
 
CWater
The slingstone flies past the undead, but the positive energy burns it heavily and the creature finally collapses.

 
 Spoiler 
No need for a Will save. Combat's over.
 
Athedia
Just as Asha was about to spur the horse into the combat she saw the last creature fall.  She nodded at the work and slid off the horse next to Eldien.   "Climb up.  I will ride in front, but you need to hold on tight." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok leans over, hands on knees, trying to swallow past a parched throat, panting and sweating in the hazy sun.  He nods at Tunta in sincere thanks.  He waves at Aidan to keep going towards the others, then gets out his wand and begins healing himself.  Briefly considering whether or not to go back and retrieve everyone's ammunition, he decides against it; he would rather just leave.  Better to get out of this damn valley as soon as possible.

A shiver runs down his spine as his mind moves back to the ...thing that just attacked him.  He inspects it, looking for anything out of place or of value.  After a few moments, he begins running towards the others, jogging at first, but picking up the pace when he is able.

 
 Spoiler 

 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 
 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
 CLW:   (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 Search:   (1d20+1)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Did I give Andras the same colour I assigned to Eldien? o_O My memory leaks worse than I thought. Suggestions what to change one of them to?
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Just as Asha was about to spur the horse into the combat she saw the last creature fall.  She nodded at the work and slid off the horse next to Eldien.   "Climb up.  I will ride in front, but you need to hold on tight."  
 

 "Alright",  the elf replies and with some trying, she is helped up on the horse,  "I remember hearing that some tribes have animals for faster travel, but never thought I would ride."  Asha also grabs the halflings and the half-party rides to meet the others.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok leans over, hands on knees, trying to swallow past a parched throat, panting and sweating in the hazy sun.  He nods at Tunta in sincere thanks.  He waves at Aidan to keep going towards the others, then gets out his wand and begins healing himself.  Briefly considering whether or not to go back and retrieve everyone's ammunition, he decides against it; he would rather just leave.  Better to get out of this damn valley as soon as possible.

A shiver runs down his spine as his mind moves back to the ...thing that just attacked him.  He inspects it, looking for anything out of place or of value.  After a few moments, he begins running towards the others, jogging at first, but picking up the pace when he is able.

 
 Spoiler 

 CLW:   [roll0]
 CLW:   [roll1]
 CLW:   [roll2]
 CLW:   [roll3]

 Search:   [roll4]
 
 
 

Kanok finds nothing of interest on the corpse that is now being gnawed upon by the cat.

 "I hope we don't run into more of that type",  Taesha says when the whole group is reunited,  "Or any type really." 
 
 Spoiler 
Anything you want to say?

Assuming you're moving on soon; two new Survival checks please.
 
CWater
The party continues westwards, determining the right course from the sun's position. For hours they travel through the silent planes, coming across little things of more interest than the occasional larger rock. Around the time the sun is about to dive into the horizon the terrain becomes a little less even than before, the wanderers have to climb up and down small hills. With the sun gone, the temperature starts to drop and they can feel the first touches of chill on their skin. It has also been a long walk, and it's starting to take its toll.

 
 Spoiler 
Time for some Con checks due to Forced Marching. Those on the horse don't need to make them yet, and I'll assume Kanok or Tuntematon is carrying the prisoner so he doesn't slow you down.

Let's say 4 checks for now. DCs: 10, 12, 14, 16.
A failed check means you take 1d6 nonlethal damage and become fatigued. If you were already fatigued (due to a previous failed check), the condition worsens to exhausted*. If you are already exhausted, you just take the damage.

*This condition halves your speed.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Taesha 
Forgot to add these, Con checks for Taesha:
DC 10:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
DC 12:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
DC 14:  (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
DC 16:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 

Well, that didn't take long.
 


Two hours later, Taesha's feet are starting to feel heavy and she's starting to fall behind, unless the others stop to wait.
CWater
With the help of divine magic, the party manages to continue a little further without having to slow down. Some time after, Andras tells Asha that the steed is about to disappear, and the women dismount and continue on foot.

It's now getting darker by the hour, and the visibility becomes very poor. With the dust in the air too, it's a bit like walking in fog now.

 
 Spoiler 
What light sources are you using and how many?

Two forced marching checks from Aidan, Kanok and Tuntematon, DCs 16 and 18.
And perception checks from everyone.

 
 Spoiler: Checks 
Taesha
DC 16:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
DC 18:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 

Stiira
Spot:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 

Eldien
Spot:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 

Prisoner halfling
Spot:  (1d20)[ 20 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 


Yeesh, there's too many of these...
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+1)[ 19 ] 
 


Asha squinted against the dust.  She was glad for the horse though, it had been supremely helpful
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Listen DC 15 
From the darkness to your right, there comes a mix of odd noises, none very loud. Like something being torn, footsteps, a harsh guttural shriek, something shredding, and a barely audible whimper.
 

 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 20, DC 15 with Low-Light vision 
Maybe 70 ft. away from you there is a group of four humanoid shapes bent over something on the ground. It's hard to tell, but it seems a bit like they're trying to tear it apart, whatever it is.

It doesn't seem like any of them have noticed you.
 


Eldien stops to look to their right, squinting her eyes.  "There's something... People, maybe.. what are they doing?" 
Stiira looks in the direction of the sound as well, trying to see what the elf noticed. Their prisoner shakes his head.  "If I'm allowed an opinion...",  he begins in a low voice.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok moves to that side of the group, club in hand, shield activated.  Whatever the group decides to do, he will be ready.  Without turning, he speaks to the halfling,  "We have not gagged you; if you have something to say, say it." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok moves to that side of the group, club in hand, shield activated.  Whatever the group decides to do, he will be ready.  Without turning, he speaks to the halfling,  "We have not gagged you; if you have something to say, say it."  
 

 "I don't know what those things are",  the halfling replies,  "But I've got good eyes, and I can tell they look  wrong . I think we should leave, and quick, before they start thinking if we'd be tasty. They've already got one for a meal, let's leave them to it." 
 
 Spoiler: Tuntematon 
The other group is too far for Tuntematon to tell the details in this light, but from his knowledge of natural beings he can tell that these resemble none of the humanoid races he knows of. They don't seem like undead either. Their stance is hunched and the way they swing their arms suggest that they end with sharp claws.

He can't recall any creature whose description would quite fit though.
 
Athedia
Asha paused, listening closely.  With a rushed whisper she spoke to the rest of the group.  "Someone is alive in there! We can't just leave them." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha paused, listening closely.  With a rushed whisper she spoke to the rest of the group.  "Someone is alive in there! We can't just leave them."  
 

Eldien nods in agreement and readies her spear, but Taesha looks doubtful.  "Are you sure? They could die before we reach them." 
 
 Spoiler 
I'll give you a few more RL hours to act this round (attack or start to leave or anything else), otherwise I'll assume that you choose to wait. It might mean you lose the surprise round, or it might not.

FYI, in case it matters to you, at this distance (70 ft.) these folks have total concealment (50%) on those with normal vision (though let's say you can figure out which square to target if you made the Spot check), and normal concealment (20%) on those with Low-Light Vision. Moving the light closer to them would of course change things; the torch has good illumination range of 20 ft. and 40 ft. for shadowy (40 ft. and 80 ft. for LLV).

I'm reducing the penalty for ranged attacks into melee to -2 because whatever they are attacking is on the ground and not properly engaging them.
 
Athedia
 "And Eldien could have died if we had left her in the tree.  If we try to save them, then there is a chance they will live."   Asha re positioned her hands on the spear as it increased in size.  Carefully she started moving toward the pack of creatures.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Silently:  (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 
Hide??:  (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok begins gesturing and waving his left hand around, while chanting in as small a voice as he can manage, while staring intently at the creatures in the darkness.

 
 Spoiler 

Assuming he has time, he casts light on his shield ring,  then guidance on himself, then shillelagh on his club , shillelagh on his club, then guidance on himself.  That will be his next three turns unless combat is started before then.
 
CWater
 "Fine",  Taesha says, and starts circling to the side to flank the other group.

Stiira mutters a spell and a shimmering transparent shield appears in front of her.

Aidan and Tuntematon have their bow and sling ready, to strike if the enemy would move to attack the party.

 
 Spoiler 
Considering the other party members actions, I thought readied actions made most sense.

Listen for D1&amp;D2:  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Listen for D3&amp;D4:  (1d20+3)[ 6 ] 
 

None of them acknowledges your presence, if they have seen your light, they don't seem to care, and continue what they were up to before.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Light area is well lit. (Or as well as a torch can anyway, but no mechanical penalties.)
Grey is shadowy.
The rest is darkness, though not pitch-black like in the cave. It is possible to locate things with Spot.
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34
Position: AD 28 

Tuntematon said another prayer, and turned the last of his sling stones began to morph until they took on the shape of blue chestnuts.

 
 Spoiler 
First, picking up a stone from nearby (if I can), then casting Magic Stone.
 
CWater
Tuntematon empower a few rocks with a spella and Kanok enchants his club. Asha slips to the darkness, and Eldien takes a few steps forward and raises her spear in case the enemy charges at her. Stiira moves closer to Aidan to cast a strengthening spell on him.
 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Bull's Strength on Aidan.
 


The ranger keeps his bow aimed at the other group, while Taesha moves closer bringing one of the torches with her. When some light shines on them, the party gets a better look of who they are facing. These beings resemble the common humanoids in shape, but their skin is ashen grey and looks like cracked stone, with rivulets of blood visibly flowing between the cracks. Their attention finally caught, the four beings look up and reveal their faces that consist of a mouth that is nothing but teeth and two beady eyes. On the ground between them lies a humanoid curled up in a defensive position.

 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 


They look back at Taesha, then at the rest of the party, after which they throw a quick glance at each other before standing up. The bound halfling takes a step back, cursing under his breath.

 
 Spoiler: Initiative 
Kanok:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ]  Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Eldien:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
Halfling:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 Ok, party turn.  (Except for Fang and your prisoner.)
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Light squres have light.
Grey are shadowy (20% concealment).
Black is darkness (50% concealment, locate with Spot).
With LLV, no penalties on the grey, 20% on most black squares.
 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 19/19
Starting Position: AD 28, Ending Position AC 23 

The centaur trotted forth and let loose an azure chestnut at one of the strange beings.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to AC23 (25 ft.)
Standard Action: Attack D1

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 Damage With Sling (If Target Is Undead):   (2d6+2)[ 8 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan takes aim and fires at one of the more well-lit creatures.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Shooting D1:
 (1d20+9)[ 23 ]   (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
Concealment (low misses):  (1d100)[ 42 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok walks over to Eldien while casting a spell, to stand in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 
Continuing with casting, move to AB24.
 
CWater
The chestnut strikes the closest creature's chest and just a moment later an arrow lands there too.

Taesha throws her spear at the same target, but her aim is not too great.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 7 ]  (1 range increment)
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 
 


Stiira sprints after Tuntematon and casts a strengthening spell on him too. Asha keeps her weapon ready, but otherwise makes no move.

 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Bull's Strength on Tuntematon as well.

I assumed Asha didn't want to draw attention to herself, I hope this is okay Athedia.
 
CWater
The strange humanoids spring into action. The wounded one, along with one that stood next to it, charge at Tuntematon and try to bite him with their toothy mouths. The two others run to attack Taesha, leaving behind the figure lumped on the ground.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
At Tuntematon
D1
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 29 ]  charge included
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 13 ] 

D3
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 22 ]  charge included
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 10 ] 

23 damage in total.

At Taesha
D2
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ]  charge included
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 13 ] 

D4
Bite:  (1d20+10)[ 25 ]  charge included
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 12 ] 

19 damage in total. (3+3 was blocked by DR.)
 


These folks have a strong bite and both adventurers suffer heavy wounds when the sharp teeth rip their flesh.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Light squres have light.
Grey are shadowy (20% concealment).
Black is darkness (50% concealment, locate with Spot).
With LLV, no penalties on the grey, 20% on most black squares.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Seeing the fearsome wounds inflicted on his centaur friend, Kanok cuts short his spellcasting and runs around the fight to a better position.  He brushes past Stiira on his way, circling around Tunta and the furthest fiend from himself.  Arriving into position, he swings his divinely-weighted club down hard on the offending creature, feet planted wide, stance strong.  Immediately thereafter, he calls upon the powers of his new ring, and lets go of the club with that hand.

 
 Spoiler 

 
40ft speed really comes in handy in melee's.

Okay, so that's a Stone Bones strike, with a two-handed shillelagh (+1 enhancement bonus), with a flanking bonus.

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 18 ] 
if critical (if these aren't undead):
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 

If it hits, Kanok has DR 5/Adamantine until his next turn.

He can activate the ring of force shield as a free action, and switching from one-handed to a two-handed grip or vice versa is also a free action...can he do this twice a round?  Like, deactivate the shield and switch to two-handed grip at the start of his turn, then switch back and reactivate the shield at the end of his turn?

Regardless, he'll activate the shield this turn.

AC is 17 or 19 with shield.
 
Etherion
Aidan puts away his bow, takes out his axes and moves forward to engage the creatures.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Swap weapons, move to AB 23.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Seeing the fearsome wounds inflicted on his centaur friend, Kanok cuts short his spellcasting and runs around the fight to a better position.  He brushes past Stiira on his way, circling around Tunta and the furthest fiend from himself.  Arriving into position, he swings his divinely-weighted club down hard on the offending creature, feet planted wide, stance strong.  Immediately thereafter, he calls upon the powers of his new ring, and lets go of the club with that hand.   
 

The creature has not quite regained it's balance after the rushed attack and Kanok manages to land a good blow on its neck. Something cracks and the humanoid collapses to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 

D1 is down.


  
40ft speed really comes in handy in melee's.

Okay, so that's a Stone Bones strike, with a two-handed shillelagh (+1 enhancement bonus), with a flanking bonus.

 Shillelagh:   [roll0]
 Damage:   [roll1]
if critical (if these aren't undead):
 Shillelagh:   [roll2]
 Damage:   [roll3]

If it hits, Kanok has DR 5/Adamantine until his next turn.

He can activate the ring of force shield as a free action, and switching from one-handed to a two-handed grip or vice versa is also a free action...can he do this twice a round?  Like, deactivate the shield and switch to two-handed grip at the start of his turn, then switch back and reactivate the shield at the end of his turn?

Regardless, he'll activate the shield this turn.

AC is 17 or 19 with shield. 

Hmm, okay. I'll allow the two free action combos in a round, but it's a bit on the limit though, so it's on the condition that one of them must be combined with a move action. (Here it's the first switch.)
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 11/34, Blurred (5 rounds remaining)
Starting Position: AC 23, Ending Position AD 24 

Realing from the pain, Tuntematon backed up and uttered the now familiar magic word, "Hämärtää!", and once again his form became like a blur.  From this blur flew yet another chestnutstone, trying to fell the aggressors.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: 5 ft. step to AD24, not provoking attacks of opportunity
Swift Action: Activate Blurring effect on armor
Standard Action: Attack D3 with Sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 Damage If Undead:   (2d6+2)[ 9 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha hurried through the shadows to the collapsed figure.  As she reached it she knelt down, one hand on her belt to send a healing charge to it.
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Jump 5 ft. straight up, DC 40:  (1d20+28)[ 32 ]  Ring of Jumping included, still, I don't think I've seen a number like that on a skill check in a while. Wierd. AC 13.

Targeting D4
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 27 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 12 ] 

If the Jump fails, only the first attack is made.

If the Jump succeeds, the enemies get an AoO, as she moves out of a threatened square upwards.
D2
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 

D4
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 10 ] 
 


Taesha jumps up, but even with the help of her new ring, she is unable to get high enough to make full use of her sharkboots. Still, she slashes her enemy with the claws on her right hand.

 "Heat, like in the sun",  Stiira mumbles and makes a closed cup with her palms, then opens them in enemy's direction and an intense light shines briefly at it.
 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Sunstroke
Damage:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  (non-lethal)
Fort DC 14 or become Fatigued:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 


The creature's skin dries and starts breathing more heavily.

Back from where he's watching the fight, the halfling prisoner takes a few steps to the right.

The stone Tuntematon hurled hits the second humanoid in the stomach and it groans in pain that quickly turns to anger when it sees its comrade fall from Kanok's blow. It spins around to strike the warrior.

 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ]  (-1 from Fatigue, so no hit)
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 13 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ]  (-1 from Fatigue)
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  (-1 from Fatigue)
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 
 


Kanok is just barely able to put his shield in front of the nightmarish mouth that lunges towards him. One of the enemy's claws scratches his side, but the other hits only air.
CWater
The two other creatures fighting Taesha do their best to rip her apart.

 
 Spoiler: Full attack x2 
D2
Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 4 ] 


D4
Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 12 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 3 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Taesha can be happy she has that diamond, otherwise she'd be dead now. Still, 22 damage.
 


The warrior is smacked around like a ragdoll, and she's soon bleeding from numerous cuts. The protective diamond saves her life, and she can feel it heat up from the strain.

Asha reaches the figure on the ground, and in the weak light she can make out that the intended dinner is a male human. He is covered in blood (most likely his own) and is not moving, barely even breathing, though the healing strengthes it a bit. He coughs a few times, but doesn't regain consciusness.
 
 Spoiler 
 I assume it was one charge?  Just checked OOC, thanks!

 Party's turn. 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Light squres have light.
Grey are shadowy (20% concealment).
Black is darkness (50% concealment, locate with Spot).
With LLV, no penalties on the grey, 20% on most black squares.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Hearing what sounds like a slaughter coming from Taesha's direction, Kanok moves to where he is needed most.  He spins around and charges across the desert battlefield to slam his blessed club down on the closest of the creature's tearing into Taesha.

 
 Spoiler 
Deactivate shield, grip club two-handed.
Charge D2.
edit:  that puts him in AF 18.

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 12 ] 
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 28 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 12 ] 

AC 15.
 
Etherion
Aidan swings at the creature in front of him with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Ya know, for a character originally designed for melee, he certainly doesn't do so very often. Oh well.
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 11/34, Blurred (4 rounds remaining)
Starting Position: AD 24, Ending Position AE21 

Seeing one of his companions way off alone and outnumbered, the centaur launched his final slingchestnut at one of the monstrocities threatening her.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to AE21
Standard Action: Attack D2 with Sling
Readied Immediate Action: Cast Close Wounds on an ally that gets hit hard.

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 Damage if Undead:   (2d6+2)[ 4 ] 
 Amount cured by Close Wounds (Range 35 Feet):   (2d4+4)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
The party's attacks find their mark and all the enemies are now heavily wounded. One of the two that were slicing Taesha shouts something in a rough voice and retreats to the darkness. To other two answer with more words the party cannot understand, though the anger and frustration is clear, and they follow the first one's example. Their footsteps can be heard for some time, especially from one that is moving slower, but eventually it sounds like they are running away.

 
 Spoiler 
Unless you want to chase them, combat's over.
 
Athedia
Asha looked up relieved they had scared the creatures off.  Gently she examined the man, looking for more injuries.   "He's alive!  Can someone help?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Heal:  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 

Another charge (1/3 left):  (2d8)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
The healing magic stops the bleeding and Asha does her best to bind the man's wounds, though she is not particularly experienced in this area. The man mumbles something incomprehensible, but does not open his eyes, however, he seems saved from immediate death.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll describe him more once light is brought closer.
 
Seharvepernfan
Unwilling to let these creatures escape so easily, now that he has seen their true nature, Kanok charges after the nearest of the fleeing creatures.  The magic infusing his bone-club is still strong, and he intends to use it.  He slams the creature about the back of it's neck.

 
 Spoiler 

Charge D3.  AC 15/17 at end of turn.

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 28 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 29 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 17 ] 

Switches to one-handed grip, activates ring.
 
CWater
Kanok deals a heavy blow to the creature's back and it collapses to the ground, though the warrior can see that the weird humanoid is still breathing. The light from his ring illuminates the nearby darkness and the shape of an another fleeing enemy can be spotted just at the edge of its range.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
D3 is down, but alive. (The damage dealt by Stiira was non-lethal.)
D2 can be spotted in right at the edge of the area. (Withdraw only gets you so far.)
 
 


As the light moves closer, Asha gets a better look of the man. He's maybe in his thirties, though its hard to say for sure with much blood still covering his face. His long brown hair is also a mess. The man was wearing leather armour, though it has been rendered almost useless by the damage, and his clothes that suggest that he's been travelling for some time (not that it was exactly likely that he lived in this barren land). Around his neck he wears a small wooden disc that has been carved to an approximately round shape. On it there is a simple inscription of a frowning face, and if Asha turns it, she sees there is a similar smiling face on the other side.

 
 Spoiler: Knowledge(Religion) DC 12 
It is the symbol of Virnil, Goddess of Luck and Destiny.
 
Rathgar
Seeing the injured man on the ground, the still blurry centaur trotted over to the fallen man to further tend to his wounds.

 "Those were yet more strange creatures, like the many in this strange land.  It truly is as though Anlin wanted me to go through these trials and tribulations just to be able to spread the word of it later.  In any case, let me allow her strangeness to overcome the bad of the last strangeness you encountered." 

With that, the centaur said a prayer of healing over the fallen man.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Lesser Vigor, granting Fast Healing 1 for 14 rounds
 
CWater
The last enemy in sight disappears momentarily from sight, but Kanok runs after it, not allowing it to disappear to the darkness. The light reveals the second fleeing creature too, just a few feet to the right.

 
 Spoiler 
Kanok can just catch up with D2 this round, though cannot attack yet. At this point they'd be about 170 ft. away from the others. Does he want to end his turn right next to the enemy, or a little away? If the latter, how far?
 


The poor man looks slightly better after the healing, and his eyes stir and he makes a weak movements with his hand. Still, he doesn't quite come to, and he continues with his incomprehensible mumbling,  "... not ... ...  warn ..."  The rest is gibberish. Asha and Tuntematon notice that his skin is warmer than it should be.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal check could tell what is wrong with him.
 


Eldien is about to limp after the others, but Stiira gestures her to wait and moves back towards the halfling prisoner, who is walking slowly backwards, away from the party.  "C-come back here!",  the little witch shouts,  "Or... or I'll send Fang on you!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Really, Stiira. Intimidate?:  (1d20-1)[ 2 ] 
Opposed check:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 

We're in sort of pseudo-combat right now, please let me know what you'd like to do next.
 


The other halfling snorts.  "I don't think he'll listen to you. Bye, little girl."  He turns around and dashes to the darkness.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok rushes right up to the nearest one, not giving it any breathing room.
CWater
Aidan hears every word of the prisoner and Stiira's short discussion and turns to run back trying to locate the escapee.

 
 Spoiler 
If he wants to take the torch Eldien is carrying, he can grab it as a swift action. With a double move he ends his movement conveniently next to her this round. He can also run directly into the darkness without light, if he wants, though that results in  some penalties.  Or he could make a normal move action, if he wants to use the standard action for something else.

Halfling's stealth checks
 (1d20+11)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 
These are  without  movement penalties or distance bonus.
I don't remember if I mentioned this earlier, but I've house-ruled the distance bonus on Move Silently so that it is +1 on every  20 ft. , not 10 ft. I hope I have stated this before, as I should have, though in this situation it is to your benefit.
 


Aidan can hear the sound of hurried footsteps, as their maker is trying to quickly put some distance between himself and the party. Guided by them, he gets a glimpse of a small figure in the distance.

 
 Spoiler 
He's 90 ft. to the south of the map from where Eldien is now and you know the exact square (he's on column AD). Due to the darkness a new check is required to locate him next round, though having him in your sight now gives you a bonus on the next (let's say +4).
 
Etherion
Aidan drops his axes, and starts running towards the halfing, pulling out his bow as he does so.

As he reaches Eldien, he requests the torch, and then shouts at the Halfling.

 Unless you would like to be shot again, I suggest you come back here.  Immediately.  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Drop axes as swift or free, can't remember which, pull out bow as part of double move, then speak. Also, I suppose an intimidate check is in order? Woo, +4 cause he's little.
 (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 

And then spot and listen, in that order (spot includes the +4 for already seeing him):
 (1d20+14)[ 21 ] 
 (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 

edit: Those rolls. Wow.
 
CWater
Taesha hesitates for a moment, holding a hand on her largest wound. But then she clenches her fist and runs after Kanok. Her torch is left on the ground where she dropped it.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok rushes right up to the nearest one, not giving it any breathing room. 
 

When the humanoid realizes that it cannot outrun Kanok, the creature turns around to face the warrior. The other enemy also turns to run towards him and it dives to tumble the last 10 feet, kicking up a cloud of dust, before lunging to bite.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Fort save or be blinded for 1 round, DC 14.

Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 12 ] 
 

But despite the distracting cloud, its attack goes wide.

The first one likewise reaches to bite him, while also waving it's sharp claws.
 
 Spoiler: Full attack 
Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 9 ] 

Claw1:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 

14 damage in total.
 

This one is more lucky with its attacks and Kanok gets ugly bite and claw marks on his shoulders.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan drops his axes, and starts running towards the halfing, pulling out his bow as he does so.

As he reaches Eldien, he requests the torch, and then shouts at the Halfling. 
 

Eldien hands over the torch.  "I'm sorry I can't be of more help." 

  Unless you would like to be shot again, I suggest you come back here.  Immediately.  
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Drop axes as swift or free, can't remember which, pull out bow as part of double move, then speak. Also, I suppose an intimidate check is in order? Woo, +4 cause he's little.
 (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 

And then spot and listen, in that order (spot includes the +4 for already seeing him):
 (1d8+5)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 

edit: Those rolls. Wow.
 
 

The halfling stops and glances over his shoulder. He remembers being shot just yesterday, and it was not a pleasant experience, but still...

 
 Spoiler 
He makes no move this round, so you can still see him.

And dropping an item is a free action, yes.
 



Tuntematon examines the man on the ground, but the unusual conditions of the living body are not really his expertise either. He can tell the man has fever and is ill, but of what he has no idea.

 
 Spoiler 
 Party's turn. 

Let me know if you'd like a map, or a recap of the distances.
 
Athedia
Asha looked up to see the severely wounded Taesha run after Kanok.  She sprinted after them.   "Let them flee! Taesha! Kanok! Don't risk your lives!" 
Etherion
Aidan moves closer to the Halfling, and aims his bow at him.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Go 30ft closer, ready action to shoot if Halfling tries to run.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok angrily grunts at the pain, both from the wicked tears and the dust in his eyes.  Unable to see, he nevertheless swings his club at the offending abomination.

 
 Spoiler 
Is the one that tumbled D3?  I want to attack whichever one is already wounded, if either are.

 Blindness Concealment:   (1d2)[ 2 ] , 1 misses

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+10)[ 28 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 

AC is 16

I don't think I need a map.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked up to see the severely wounded Taesha run after Kanok.  She sprinted after them.   "Let them flee! Taesha! Kanok! Don't risk your lives!"  
 

 "Well, he's going to!",  Taesha shouts back and continues towards the ongoing fight.

 
 Spoiler 
Can't quite reach them and attack this round, so let's say her movement ends 20 ft. away from the closest enemy.

If Asha runs after them, she is 40 ft. away at the end of her turn. (20 ft. from Taesha.)

There is 80 ft. of complete darkness between the area lit by the light Kanok has and one illuminated by the torch Taesha dropped, but I'm going to say that because the distance is not long, the ground is even and you can see where you're going, it doesn't reduce your speed.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan moves closer to the Halfling, and aims his bow at him.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Go 30ft closer, ready action to shoot if Halfling tries to run.
 
 
 

The halfling makes his choice and dives into the darkness.
 
 Spoiler 
Guess you'll be making that attack. You still also have a full turn after that, as this happened at the beginning of the halfling's turn. New perception checks will be needed to locate him, though you obviously know the spot where he just was.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok angrily grunts at the pain, both from the wicked tears and the dust in his eyes.  Unable to see, he nevertheless swings his club at the offending abomination.

 
 Spoiler 
Is the one that tumbled D3?  I want to attack whichever one is already wounded, if either are.

 Blindness Concealment:   (1d20+5)[ 13 ] , 1 misses

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d8+5)[ 10 ] 
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   [roll3]
 Damage:   [roll4]

AC is 16

I don't think I need a map.
 
 
 

Kanok strikes the space where he remembers the enemy being and he can feel the club connect. As the dust clears from his eyes, he sees that the creature has a bleeding wound on it's head. It's still standing, but sways from side to side. Knocked out of focus, the creature backs away.

 
 Spoiler 
D3 was the one you knocked unconscious right before you chased after these two. I think you want to attack D2, as blinded Kanok can't be sure where D4 ended its movement. Both of them were wounded from before though.

D2 (the one he just struck), moved 30 ft. away from him with a restricted withdraw.
 


The other makes a sommersault on the ground to get around Kanok, kicking up more dust as it goes, then lunges towards him.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
New Fort save, DC 14, or he is blinded for a round again.

Tumble, DC 15:  (1d20+5)[ 13 ]  if fails, Kanok gets an AoO. This is before the possible blindness.

Bite:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+5)[ 10 ] 

Unless the AoO drops this enemy, Kanok takes 10 more damage an is at 23/47 HP.
 
Etherion
As the Halfling begins to move, Aidan sighs and takes a shot.

 
 Spoiler: Attack roll 
 (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 As the Halfling begins to move, Aidan sighs and takes a shot.

 
 Spoiler: Attack roll 
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

The arrow hits the escapee in the back, but the stubborn halfling still tries to stagger out of sight.
Etherion
Aidan chases after the Halfling.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Run for 4x movement, should put me 20 ft away from him, unless he has fast movement or darkvision.

Spot/listen:
 (1d20+10)[ 24 ] 
 (1d20+10)[ 27 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan chases after the Halfling.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Run for 4x movement, should put me 20 ft away from him, unless he has fast movement or darkvision.

Spot/listen:
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

Aidan reaches the spot where he last saw the halfling. He's not to be seen in the light's immediate reach, but when the hunter takes a look around, he spots the small fellow who is trying to blend in to the darkness behind him.

 
 Spoiler 
He's 40 ft. from Aidan.
 


Kanok smacks the creature on the head when it starts to move around him, and the enemy falls to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
D4 is down, the only one left standing is D2 who backed away.

Everyone except Aidan still have a turn this round.
 
Etherion
 Give up. You're slower than me, and apparently not very good at hiding. 
Rathgar
Seeing the halfling dash off, Tuntematon decided to test out his new hoof stones and try to catch the tiny menace.

 
 Spoiler 
Taking a full round run action, moving 280 ft. in the direction that the halfling fled

Rolls:
 Spot to Find Halfling:   (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 Listen to Find Halfling:   (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok immediately bears down on the last remaining creature, his bone-club soaked red.  This desert will be slightly safer in the future.

 
 Spoiler 

Deactivate ring, switch to two-handed
Charge D2, or regular attack if too close to charge.

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 13 ] , -2 if not charging
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+12)[ 13 ] , -2 if not charging
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 17 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  Give up. You're slower than me, and apparently not very good at hiding.  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing the halfling dash off, Tuntematon decided to test out his new hoof stones and try to catch the tiny menace.

 
 Spoiler 
Taking a full round run action, moving 280 ft. in the direction that the halfling fled

Rolls:
 Spot to Find Halfling:  [roll0]
 Listen to Find Halfling:  [roll1]
 
 
 

Aidan points the halflings location to Tuntematon and he gallops fast in that direction, almost running over the little troublemaker. The prisoner curses as his second attempt at fleeing is foiled, but doesn't try to run anymore.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok immediately bears down on the last remaining creature, his bone-club soaked red.  This desert will be slightly safer in the future.

 
 Spoiler 

Deactivate ring, switch to two-handed
Charge D2, or regular attack if too close to charge.

 Shillelagh:   [roll0], -2 if not charging
 Damage:   [roll1]
if critical:
 Shillelagh:   [roll2], -2 if not charging
 Damage:   [roll3]
 
 
 

A random stone on the ground throws Kanok slightly off balance and his last swing misses the creature. It dives to the ground and quickly burrows into it, disappearing from sight.
Athedia
Asha ran over to Taesha.  Laying an hand on the woman and her own belt sent a charge into Taesha.   "They were running Kanok.  It wasn't like before." 
 
 Spoiler 
Belt:  (2d8)[ 3 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stares at the ground in barely-contained frustration for a while.  He knows they don't have the time to wait this thing out, but he still finds it hard to pull away.  Eventually, he turns and rejoins the group, checking on Taesha to see the extent of her wounds.   "Things like them should not be."   His tone is gruff, sounding completely self-assured.
CWater
 "Thanks, Asha. And I'll live",  Taesha says when the others show concern over her wounds,  "Wouldn't mind another healing spell though." 
 
 Spoiler 
I assume the three of you return to the spot where the wounded man is lying.
And I believe Aidan and Tuntematon also return with the halfling; he won't resist, but you might need to push him along a few times.

 600 XP  for everyone.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok spends a minute using his wand on the wounded, then stows it to regard the unconscious priest.   "We must leave this valley, we will take him with us."   He puts away his club, stoops to carefully throw the man over his shoulder, then produces his spear with his free hand.   "Let's go." 
 
 Spoiler 

Okay, he's carrying the new guy.

Can Asha or Taesha carry Eldien, with the other carrying the halfling?
 
Athedia
Asha still glared at Kanok, but slide her arm under Eldien's to continue helping her.
CWater
Kanok heals most of Taesha's and Tuntematon's wounds with the healing wand. After that they set out on their journey across the desert; Taesha grabs the halfling giving him a angry glare, and Stiira rides on Fang again. All around them an eerie darkness surrounds them and the only noise comes from the occasional burst of wind.

 
 Spoiler 
Alright, one more Survival check (the DC is higher now that it's also dark).

And one more batch of forced marching, let's see if it's your last! 5 checks (and damage).

For Kanok, Aidan, Tuntematon, Taesha and Fang (forgot about him earlier), who have been walking the whole time, the DCs start at 22 and end in 30, so I'm afraid that means automatic damage for the most part.
For Asha, the DCs are from 10 to 18.

I assumed Stiira will ride on Fang, let me know if this is not so.

 
 Spoiler: Taesha 
DC 22:  (1d20+3)[ 20 ]  damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
Just the damage for the next, as she can't make the DC:
 (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 (1d6)[ 6 ] 
 

 
CWater
The party wanders through the dark barren valley through the long night. Tiredness is getting to their limbs, but they are determined to get out of the place before they set up camp; probably a wise choice considerng the locals they have met.

The dull march can feel like its taking an eternity, but finally, as the first rays of morning sun light the world, the weary travellers get a first glance of the Fiery mountain ahead, revealed from behind the wall of dust. They drag themselves up the slope, leaving the grim valley behind. It seems they have drifted perhaps a little to the south from the most direct course, but not very much.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll give you a chance to post here, before moving forward. Axe should be able to join you soon, be nice!🙂

Oh, and you each get  200 XP  for crossing the desert.
You can roll to see how much damage you took from the last leg if you want, as it is non-lethal, it will go away after you rest.
 
Seharvepernfan
While walking up the side of the mountain, Kanok spends most of his time scanning the surrounding area, looking for somewhere for the group to hide; a boulderfield, a crevice, a stand of trees, anything of that nature.  As the sun comes up, he looks back east, skyward, trying to find any sign of their avian pursuer.  He stops the group, and walks over to Eldien and Aidan,  "Can you see the winged man?" 
 
 Spoiler 

I'll roll spot and survival to find an area of cover to pull off our bait trick, and take 20 looking for the raptoran.

 Spot:   (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
 Survival:   (1d20+15)[ 27 ] 

He's asking Eldien because she has low-light vision and a racial bonus to spot, and Aidan because he also has good spot.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Seharv 
Is it okay if I respond to those checks after the party has rested? Could otherwise do them right away, but I'd like to have Axe added to the game before that.
 

 "No.. I don't see anyone on the sky",  Eldien says, looking back in the direction they came from. She then turns back towards the mountain ahead and frowns.  "This is the Fiery Maw.. But it's strange... Maybe I remembered wrong."  She mutters and shrugs.

The tired travellers set up camp and rest, not for the night this time, but for the morning and part of the day.

 
 Spoiler 
You've got food left for only one day now btw.

Athedia, which vestige (if any) is Asha binding?
 

They get to rest until midday without anything bothering them.

 
 Spoiler: Lily 
She's climbing down the slope towards the party, and has stayed out of sight for now. They are resting now, and what she can tell they seem to match the vision shown to her in the dream. But when she's about 200 ft. away from them she notices something else too. A four-legged creature, about the size of a small bear, is sneaking towards the party's camp. The strangest thing about it is that it seems to consist entirely of fire, though it does not create any smoke.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Sorry that this post comes a day later than what I said earlier. -_-'
 

 
Athedia
Asha drew the symbols for Paimon.  She was sheepish as she bound him again, not even trying to make a fair for herself.

 
 Spoiler 
-20 to this binding.... yeah she...   FAILS  
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Aidan and Fang  
You catch a glimpse if something bright, like fire though there is no smoke to be seen, several tens of feet (over 50 ft.) up the hill from where your camp is.
 

 
 Spoiler: Tuntematon, Kanok and Fang 
You hear the faintest sound of something scraping against the rocky ground. Uphill from where you are.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha drew the symbols for Paimon.  She was sheepish as she bound him again, not even trying to make a fair for herself.

 
 Spoiler 
-20 to this binding.... yeah she...   FAILS  
 
 
 

The small whirlwind appears and spins gleefully around Asha, not paying any attention to her summoning circle that is supposed to contain him.  "Oh, I've been waiting for your call! We're going to have so much fun!",  the spirit rejoices.
aReallyGreatAxe
  
 Spoiler: Lily 
She's climbing down the slope towards the party, and has stayed out of sight for now. They are resting now, and what she can tell they seem to match the vision shown to her in the dream. But when she's about 200 ft. away from them she notices something else too. A four-legged creature, about the size of a small bear, is sneaking towards the party's camp. The strangest thing about it is that it seems to consist entirely of fire, though it does not create any smoke.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Sorry that this post comes a day later than what I said earlier. -_-'
 

 
 

Lily chewed on her lip, deep in thought. She knew that she was too far away to affect anything personally, and just shooting the creature would surely tick it off and send it charging right into the resting giants without warning.

  Warning...   That wasn't such a bad idea after all.

Lily took another moment to choose her target well, eventually deciding to aim near the largest brute. He was the most likely to be effective in an ambush situation, in any case. More so than whoever was busy summoning tornadoes, at any rate.

An arrow struck the ground with a meaty thunk, then sat quivering with the midday sun gleaming from its gray fletchings.

 
 Spoiler: Actions:Edited 

 
 Spoiler: Actions (original) 
Run: Full Round Action
 Movement x4 =120'

Lily will try to move closer to the party, detouring around the creature so as not to make it think she's attacking.

Thus, if she makes the check, Lily will be about 100' from the party, about 40-50' from the creature, depending on angle.

Balance:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 

Fixed Actions:
1.) Standard action: Fire arrow into the middle of the party. (Hopefully near Kanok)
2.) Move Action: Move 30' closer to the party, putting her about 170' from the party, 120-130'  from the creature, depending on angle.
 
CWater
The arrow lands right next to Kanok. A little later the party members notice a halfling with a bow in hand run down the slope.

 
 Spoiler 
Lily is 50 ft. from you after the second round.

The rest of you have got one round before you spot her and one round after that, in case it matters. Even if you aren't going to do anything in particular for the moment, please let me know that too.
 
Seharvepernfan
Fang growls in the direction of whatever it was that Kanok heard, which is enough for him to act on.  He stops as the arrow lands in front of him, but since he does not see the bowman, he decides it would be better to engage the ambushers who are no doubt ready to charge the group.  He dashes in the direction of the noise he heard.

 
 Spoiler 

One move towards it.

If he spots it and can get to it with one move, he will attack it.
If not, he uses his 2nd action to move up to 10ft away from it, if possible.
 
Rathgar
Seeing the strange halfling coming down towards them, Tuntematon knows that he can't really ask Anlin for more many more miracles.   "Look out, is this more aggression?  Captive halfling, is this one of yours?" 

Not waiting long for an answer, the centaur prophet gets ready to create a fog so that they party may make a quick run for it.
CWater
Kanok runs towards the sound and Taesha hurries after him. Circling around some of the larger rocks brings them suddenly face-to-face with the source of the commotion. A large lizard-like creature, about the size of a horse and made entirely out of fire, stands in front of them and lets out a sizzling hiss.

 
 Spoiler 
80 ft. from the camp. Was Fang left there?
 


Lily runs down, watching her step so she doesn't fall. She sees the two warriors approach the fire creature.

 
 Spoiler 
She's 40 ft. from them and 50 ft. from the camp.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing the strange halfling coming down towards them, Tuntematon knows that he can't really ask Anlin for more many more miracles.   "Look out, is this more aggression?  Captive halfling, is this one of yours?" 

Not waiting long for an answer, the centaur prophet gets ready to create a fog so that they party may make a quick run for it. 
 

The halfling snorts, but says nothing.

 
 Spoiler 
Since you have rested, you have regained new spells for the day.🙂
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily smiled.   Perfect.   Nobody was going to be caught unaware.

Now, on to tackling the next problem on the list.
That flame beast had forced her to ruin a perfectly good sneaky entrance, after all.
Lily felt a curious sense of calm as she drew back her bow, almost bordering on panic.



 
 Spoiler: Actions/rolls 

1.) Enter ferocity (+4 dex, +4 strength, 7 rounds remaining)

2.) Standard action: Shoot the creature.
Attack:
 (1d20+13)[ 24 ] 
Critical confirmation (if needed):
 (1d20+13)[ 30 ] 
Subtract 4 from these rolls if this counts as shooting into melee.

Damage:
 (1d8+4)[ 8 ] 

3.) If entering ferocity uses up her move action, Lily will stay put.
If a move action remains, Lily will move to be 30 feet from the creature.
 
Rathgar
 "Flaming wildlife is not what we need right now.  I must find some rocks, and fast."   Tuntematon intended to gather some more slingstones before the party set off for the day, but there wasn't enough time yet.  Just three of any size, and perhaps Anlin could grant him a much needed miracle.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action(s): Looking for and gathering three stones from the ground.
Standard Action: Casting Magic Stone on them (if enough actions left to do so).
Free Actions: Use battery of tests to identify what we are up against.

Rolls:
 Search (To Find Stones):   (1d20+1)[ 17 ] 
 Knowledge (Arcana):   (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
 Knowledge (Nature):   (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 Knowledge (Religion):   (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 Knowledge (The Planes):   (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 Spellcraft:   (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan pulls out his bow and prepares to take a shot at the fiery beast if it approaches.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Draw bow, ready action to shoot.
 
Athedia
Asha glanced at the direction the arrow had been shot from.  Turning back to see the rest of the group was readying an assault on the present threat she smiled and positioned herself near the bush, waiting for whatever was in it to emerge.    Paimon, you ready to dance?    The bone spur slid out her hand, her fingers wrapping out the red stained bone.
CWater
Lily's arrow hits the creature in the back.

 
 Spoiler 
Not a melee shot yet.
 


Kanok moves closer to attack the beast.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Assuming he's using the shortspear two-handed.
Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
 


The fire lizard lashes back at him, then quickly leaps past him towards the camp.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Slam:  (1d20+10)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+2)[ 10 ]  plus fire  (2d6)[ 4 ] 
If hits, Ref save DC 17 or catch fire. (See SRD for details if need be.)

Spring attack.
 


Now everyone at the camp can see the flaming creature too. Asha has moved to cover and Aidan has his bow ready, but the others have not yet reacted. Tuntematon can recognise it as a fire elemental though.

 
 Spoiler 
Enemy 30 ft. from the party, 50 ft. from Kanok and Taesha.

Aidan can make that readied action. Tuntematon didn't get to move before the elemental, but he can make those actions listed above as his turn this round.

 Party's turn. 

Sorry for shortness all around, I'm busy playing tourist.
 
Seharvepernfan
The beast's fiery claws slashed against Kanok's dragonskin, though it did not pierce through.  Still, he could feel the force behind the blow and the great heat coming off from it,...not something he wants to experience.  It is circled by archers, so this will be a game of sharing it's attention.  The mighty caveman rushes forward while taking hold of his bow with his free hand.  Nearing the creature, he hurls his spear, then switches hands with the bow and raises his now-free arm up, as if he were holding a shield with it, though he does not appear to be.

 
 Spoiler 
Move 30ft closer while drawing bow, throw spear, switch bow to main hand, activate force shield.
(in that order, if you don't want to allow all of it)

 Shortspear:   (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily fired again, trying her best not to hit the other combatants.
 
 Spoiler: Actions and Rolls 

1.) Standard action: Shoot the creature
Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 25 ]  (the -4 is due to firing into melee)
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 6 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 

2.) If the creature has moved by now, Lily will move to remain 30 feet from her. If Lily is not within 30', this will come prior to the standard action.
 
CWater
Aidan sends the arrow flying the moment the fiery beast enters his range of vision and it hits the creature in the shoulder. He shoots another arrow after it, but this time the enemy dodges.

Kanok's thrown spear hits its side and the elemental lets out a loud angry hiss. Right after, Lily sends a new arrow flying, and strikes the beast in the back. The arrows stuck on the fiery creature blacken and soon burn to crisp; fortunately the enchantment on the spear seems to protect it from similar fate and it just falls on the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Seharv: The actions are ok. :)

Axe: This was actually not a shot into melee either as no one engaged it in melee this round. :) Lily moved before her attack to get within 30 ft.

As an elemental, this thing is immune to crits. It's other qualities however, are a little modified to what you could find on the SRD, in case you'd wonder. Not going to specify exactly  how  right now, though I can later.
 


Tuntematon blesses three rocks to be used as bullets. Stiira squeaks and swiftly casts a spell to summon a shield in front of herself. Eldien readies her spear in case the elemental would choose to attack her, and the halfling prisoner backs away from the creature as quickly as he can. Taesha runs back towards the camp after Kanok, cursing the rocky ground that prevents her from charging at the enemy.

The fiery lizard-shaped throws a (presumably) angry glance back towards the warriors running after it, but continues swiftly towards their camp. Once there, it stops in the middle and takes a good look around, then locks its gaze on the still unconscious man they found in the desert.

 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive DC 8 
It's about to attack him.
 

 
 Spoiler: Positions 
Sorry that a simple and possibly confusing list is all you have to work with right now, please bear with me. I'll be back home in a couple if days and will be able to provide a proper map. If you have any questions, please ask.

Kanok and Taesha are now 40 ft. from the elemental, to the west, uphill.
Lily is also 40 ft. away from the elemental, also uphill, a little to the northeast from Kanok and Taesha.
Aidan is 10 ft. north from the elemental.
Asha is 15 ft. southeast from the elemental, trying to hide behind rocks and bushes.
Tuntematon is 20 ft. south from the elemental.
Stiira is 10 ft. to the northeast from the elemental.
The unconscious man is 10 ft. to the east from the enemy, Eldien is right next to him.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily just keeps shooting. It's rhythmic, almost calming.
 
 Spoiler: Actions and Rolls 

1.) Lily will move to get 30' from the creature
2.) Standard action: Keep shooting
Attack: (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 10 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 

Note: Sense motive is not being rolled, as I'm fairly certain this falls under things Lily should not be able to do at the moment, as a barbarian.

(Also, 4 rounds remain of her frenzy, after this post.)
 
Etherion
Noticing the burnt arrows, Aidan decides it is likely a bad idea to fight this creature in melee, and so he fires another arrow at it.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 6 ] 

Oops, add 1 to that damage roll from point blank shot.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok likewise begins to send arrows flying at the fiery spirit-beast.

 
 Spoiler 

Move 5ft closer, full-attack rapid-shot

 Shortbow:   (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
 Shortbow:   (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 

If, by some means, this thing is considered an animal, add 2 to each damage roll.
 
Rathgar
As he gave the trio of stones the blessing of Anlin, they all warped into the shape of perfect cubes.   "Anlin, please let these stones fly as well as normal, round stones."   With that, the centaur let loose the first of the cubes at the fiery beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Shoot Sling at the fiery beast

 Attack:   (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
After being battered by the arrows and stones, the flame of the beast shrinks and it seems weakened.

 
 Spoiler 
Wow, just made a count and altogether you've dealt pretty nice damage to it. Still standing though.

I'll give Athedia a little more time to post, before moving on.
 
Athedia
Asha drew her hand back and stabbed forward at the creature.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 


She couldn't get past the mental block in her head as her hand neared the flame, flinching away at the last second.
CWater
 "Freeze."  A shimmering blue sphere appears in Stiira's hands and flies towards the beast.

 
 Spoiler: Ranged touch 
Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (2d8)[ 6 ]  *1.5 due to vulnerability
 


But the nimble creature dodges the attack.
CWater
Taesha runs down the hill to attack the flaming monster, but loses her footing and falls down on the hard ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Balance:  (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Autopasses the Jump
 Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 15 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 12 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ]  
 
CWater
At great speed, the elemental leaps past Asha towards the unconscious man, and smacks him with its large head. The hit itself is not very hard, but the flames burn the unfortunate man and set his clothes on fire.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 21 ]  only fails on a 1
Damage:  (2d6+2)[ 5 ]  plus  (2d6)[ 8 ]  fire
No Ref saves for the unconscious
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 "Honorless,"  Lily grunted under her breath as she let another arrow fly. One does not attack a fallen enemy, no matter how savage.

 
 Spoiler: Actions and Rolls 

1.) Move action to get 30 feet from the creature.
2.) Shoot at her again.

Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 10 ] 

Critical Confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 
CWater
The halfling girls arrow flies through the elementals head and it lets out a last hiss while smoke pours out of its mouth, then the whole flaming being seems to burn out and vanishes.

 
 Spoiler 
Ok, combat over! XP in the OOC.

The guy is still on fire though.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 At great speed, the elemental leaps past Asha towards the unconscious man, and smacks him with its large head. The hit itself is not very hard, but the flames burn the unfortunate man and set his clothes on fire.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Attack:  (2d8)[ 15 ]  only fails on a 1
Damage: [roll1] plus [roll2] fire
No Ref saves for the unconscious
 
 
 

Asha ran to the man, pulling her mug off out of her bag.  A quick command to the mug and it filled with water, which she proceed to pour over the worst of the flames.  She attempted to smother the rest as she reached out to heal the man again.

 
 Spoiler 
Charge from belt (2/3)

 (2d8)[ 15 ] 
 
CWater
Asha manages to extinguish the flames before they do any more damage, and the healing fixes the burns and bruise the man got from the beast's attack. He groans weakly, and mutters something incoherent again and tries to lift his hand before going limp again.
Athedia
Asha looked down startled at the movement.  She expanded another charge hoping to wake the man up.

 
 Spoiler 
Charges (1/3)
 (2d8)[ 5 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily lowered her bow, feeling triumphant but, truth be told, a little sick to her stomach. Now she had to go about the hard part- meeting these people and their... companions of a rather large persuasion. Oh, who was she kidding, she was going to go and talk to a bunch of Giants and hope that they didn't plan on eating her alive.

Lily strode into the camp like she owned the place.  "You,"  she addressed Stiira,  "Do you speak the Giant's tongue?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Lily is now sickened. Also, I checked and none save Stiira and Tuntematon have spoken (other than Asha's command word) since Lily's appearance. It stands to reason that she would assume the majority of the party speaks Giant.
 
Athedia
Asha looked at the new halfling concerned.  Switching to her second tongue she spoke.  &lt;Giant&gt;"My people fought the giants.  Do you require assistance against them?&lt;/Giant&gt;   She then repeated the question in the common tongue.
Rathgar
Now that the fiery beast was done for, the miniature centaur began to search for a couple of dozen stones suitable for using in his sling.  As he searched, he turned to the stranger and began to speak the language of the Halflings.   "I do speak the language of THESE giants, though if you mean the jättiläiset, I can't help you there.  These people aren't really all enormous, though.  Not normal sized like us, but still, not enormous." 
 
 Spoiler 
I'll take 20 to search for the stones, or I'll roll if you really want a roll to see how long.

 Search:   (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 

On a side note, I realized that I hadn't used any gratuitous Finnish in a good while, so I figured the first conversation with the new character would be a good time to bring back that old character trait.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily jumped a little when the whirlwind-summoner began to speak in the strange tongue, then repeat it in one more familiar. Still, the soothing cadences of her native language were preferable in this situation, to say the least.

She turned to Tuntematon.  &lt;Halfling&gt;"I'm glad that you speak their language, although I do know some of what the...."  she gestured at Asha,  "... pointy  one is speaking. You are a bit... taller than I am, so I can see why these Giants may not seem as large. Those Jallatl...Jrtl... larger Giants you are talking about must scrape the sky!" &lt;/Halfling&gt;  

Lily looked askance at Asha, fidgeting with the mummified elf hand around her neck, then switched to lightly accented common.   "It's... kind of you to offer, but I would appreciate it if you would put that pointy thing away before I am impaled.  Then  we can discuss the slaying of Giants! 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily jumped a little when the whirlwind-summoner began to speak in the strange tongue, then repeat it in one more familiar. Still, the soothing cadences of her native language were preferable in this situation, to say the least.

She turned to Tuntematon.  &lt;Halfling&gt;"I'm glad that you speak their language, although I do know some of what the...."  she gestured at Asha,  "... pointy  one is speaking. You are a bit... taller than I am, so I can see why these Giants may not seem as large. Those Jallatl...Jrtl... larger Giants you are talking about must scrape the sky!" &lt;/Halfling&gt;  

Lily looked askance at Asha, fidgeting with the mummified elf hand around her neck, then switched to lightly accented common.   "It's... kind of you to offer, but I would appreciate it if you would put that pointy thing away before I am impaled.  Then  we can discuss the slaying of Giants!  
 

Asha's eyes landed on the hand and then glanced over at Eldien.  Backing over to the elf she gripped the bone spur tighter.   "You won't hurt her.  She is of my tribe now." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked down startled at the movement.  She expanded another charge hoping to wake the man up.

 
 Spoiler 
Charges (1/3)
[roll0]
 
 
 

The man continues to ramble gibberish, though Asha can make out a few words amongst it.  "...that... done... ....insane..."  Suddenly he starts coughing, first in small bursts, then more violently and as it goes on the sound turns into more like mad laughter. Then it stops as quickly as it started, and he falls silent to lie still again.


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily lowered her bow, feeling triumphant but, truth be told, a little sick to her stomach. Now she had to go about the hard part- meeting these people and their... companions of a rather large persuasion. Oh, who was she kidding, she was going to go and talk to a bunch of Giants and hope that they didn't plan on eating her alive.

Lily strode into the camp like she owned the place.  "You,"  she addressed Stiira,  "Do you speak the Giant's tongue?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Lily is now sickened. Also, I checked and none save Stiira and Tuntematon have spoken (other than Asha's command word) since Lily's appearance. It stands to reason that she would assume the majority of the party speaks Giant.
 
 
 

 "Wh-what  giants ..."  Stiira has been slowly edging away from the new arrival, though the fact that she is also small like her had kept here from outright running away. That is, until she spots the dried hand hanging from Lily's neck. She lets out a small yelp and hides behind Aidan, who is closest to her.

 
 Spoiler 
Ah, amusing confusion. ;)
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha's eyes landed on the hand and then glanced over at Eldien.  Backing over to the elf she gripped the bone spur tighter.   "You won't hurt her.  She is of my tribe now."  
 

Eldien still holds on to her spear, though she lifts it to a less hostile position. She seems more relaxed now that the fire beast is gone.  "Who are you?",  she asks Lily,  "I didn't know other small folk than dwarves lived here, and you look more like Stiira than them." 

Inside her head, Asha has to again listen to the blabbering of the overjoyed Paimon.   That was fun! Shame the fight didn't last any longer, flames can be great dancers.. Oh, do you think that this new person dances? You should ask. Hmm, I think I should compose another song...   
Seharvepernfan
Kanok snorts, ever impatient with the dialogues of these southerners.   "Who are you?  Why are you here?  And what was that beast attacking us?" 
aReallyGreatAxe
  Asha's eyes landed on the hand and then glanced over at Eldien. Backing over to the elf she gripped the bone spur tighter.  "You won't hurt her. She is of my tribe now."  

    Lily's eyebrows furrowed together in confusion. This strange creature didn't seem to like her very much.  "I wasn't planning on hurting her, but thank you for letting me know." 

  Eldien still holds on to her spear, though she lifts it to a less hostile position. She seems more relaxed now that the fire beast is gone. "Who are you?", she asks Lily, "I didn't know other small folk than dwarves lived here, and you look more like Stiira than them." 


 Kanok snorts, ever impatient with the dialogues of these southerners. "Who are you? Why are you here? And what was that beast attacking us?" 

Lily smiled a bit, glad that someone other than the pointy one was speaking to her. She folded her hand over her heart in the traditional greeting of her tribe.  "May the river's blessings be upon you. I am Lily Giantsbane.  That honorless beast... I don't know what it was, but it seemed to die just as well as any other. I am here because I was told to be. In a dream."  Lily's face turned bright red after admitting this fact.
Athedia
 "A dream..."   Asha let the bone spur slide back into her hand, the skin closing up around it.   "If you saw this dream, you are with us.  But who did you murder on the way here to get that token?  There is enough tension in these lands without wanton killing." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "A dream..."   Asha let the bone spur slide back into her hand, the skin closing up around it.   "If you saw this dream, you are with us.  But who did you murder on the way here to get that token?  There is enough tension in these lands without wanton killing."  
 

Lily relaxed a bit as Asha disarmed, but her confusion did not lift.  "Murder? This 'token' belongs to the elders of my tribe! I would never dream of harming them!" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok moves to pick up his still-warm spear, and stares at the mountain while doing so,  "It's no matter.  She saw the dream, she's with us.  Let's go." 
 
 Spoiler 
We need food, and now we need a lot since we're a traveling circus now.

Gonna make a survival check for food while traveling at half speed.

 Survival:   (1d20+15)[ 22 ] 
 
Rathgar
The centaur smiled at the newcomer while he was gathering more slingstones.   "I see that Tietier has visited you as well.  I know some of her, though not as much as I do of Alnin, her sibling.  Oh, I haven't even introduced myself yet.  I'm Tuntematon, prophet of Alnin.  It seems that Alnin is blessing you with encounters with the strange lately as well." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok moves to pick up his still-warm spear, and stares at the mountain while doing so,  "It's no matter.  She saw the dream, she's with us.  Let's go." 
 
 Spoiler 
We need food, and now we need a lot since we're a traveling circus now.

Gonna make a survival check for food while traveling at half speed.

 Survival:   [roll0]
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 The centaur smiled at the newcomer while he was gathering more slingstones.   "I see that Tietier has visited you as well.  I know some of her, though not as much as I do of Alnin, her sibling.  Oh, I haven't even introduced myself yet.  I'm Tuntematon, prophet of Alnin.  It seems that Alnin is blessing you with encounters with the strange lately as well."  
 

Lily's mouth quirked up in a surprised smile at the mention of Alnin.  "A prophet of the trouble-making God? This will be a strange journey indeed."  She gestured at Kanok.  "But he's right, we should go. How should we carry your injured friend?"  
 
 Spoiler: Gods 

Lily's tribe generally favors Muira, goddess of rivers, lakes, tradition, and enmity towards Alnin.
Luckily, Lily's not particularly religious.
 
Athedia
Asha growled and spat on the ground near Lily's feet.   "She stays away from Eldien.  And from me." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily's mouth quirked up in a surprised smile at the mention of Alnin.  "A prophet of the trouble-making God? This will be a strange journey indeed."  She gestured at Kanok.  "But he's right, we should go. How should we carry your injured friend?"  
 
 Spoiler: Gods 

Lily's tribe generally favors Muira, goddess of rivers, lakes, tradition, and enmity towards Alnin.
Luckily, Lily's not particularly religious.
 
 
 

 "We don't really know him, just found him in the Dead Valley yesterday, about to be eaten by some weird creatures. We figured it wouldn't do to just leave him there, but it's a bit of burden to carry him around. I hope we find a place to leave him in soon."  Taesha walks up to the man and throws him over her shoulder,  "I'll carry him today, if Kanok takes the halfling?" 
 "Right, that reminds me",  Taesha points at the other halfling,  "He's not one of us, but our prisoner. We found him on the Fifth mountain, and suspect his tribe is up to no good." 

EDIT:
She looks up at the mountain to the mountains rising to the west.  So, which way are we going? 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok shrugs at Taesha's question, grabbing the halfling by the legs and flipping him over one shoulder like an in-animate sack.  He then begins walking uphill, towards the caldera.  He tries to pick out the least difficult path.

 
 Spoiler 
Survival for easiest path?

 Survival:   (1d20+15)[ 18 ] 

You could make a case for that being a knowledge geography check instead, so if this doesn't work, that's fine with me.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok shrugs at Taesha's question, grabbing the halfling by the legs and flipping him over one shoulder like an in-animate sack.  He then begins walking uphill, towards the caldera.  He tries to pick out the least difficult path.

 
 Spoiler 
Survival for easiest path?

 Survival:   [roll0]

You could make a case for that being a knowledge geography check instead, so if this doesn't work, that's fine with me.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Survival is ok.
 


There is no obvious used path in sight, but Kanok finds a route which allows them all to proceed without having to resort to climbing and lifting. At least for the time being.

Some of them go hunting on the way, and while the Fiery Maw is not the most lively moutain, they manage to catch a lone mountain goat and two big lizards that look edible. It's enough to feed the whole company today and almost for another day too.

 
 Spoiler 
The Survival DC is 12 in this terrain, which means you got 14 portions from these checks. There's 11 mouths in your current troupe, though some are small and Asha's Everlasting Rations provide for one, so you use up 8 portions per day. Taking into account what you had from before,  after  you stopping to rest and eat today, you'll have  almost 2 days  worth of reserves.
 


Tuntematon also searches for suitable slingstones and finds about twenty that will do the job. While looking, he notices that many of the loose rocks of the area are lighter than what he would expect.

At the time of early dusk, Eldien draws their attention to a distant figure on the eastern sky, currently over the Dead Valley.  "I believe our winged follower has returned",  she says, squinting her eyes,  "Don't think he has located us yet." 
 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 20 
You confirm her sighting.
 
Rathgar
 "Alright, looks like we need to put our discussions on hold for a little bit, I see our winged pursuer has come to our general direction.  Let's find a depression to hide in, and I'll call on the aid of Alnin to help us obscure ourselves.  It'll only be a mist, but on this mountain, we may pass the depression off as a volcanic vent.  Maybe have the person best at hiding stay out and see when the birdman flies off."   The centaur then turns to the captive halfling.   "Oh, and if you try to pull ANYTHING, well, just think about what you'll say to Sheirin when you get to meet him today." 

With that, the centaur immediately starts to look for such a place to hide.

 
 Spoiler 
Will search for a suitable depression, then when we get into it, Tuntematon will cast Obscuring Mist.

Checks to see if I can find such a depression myself:
 Search:   (1d20+1)[ 15 ] 
 Spot:   (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Alright, looks like we need to put our discussions on hold for a little bit, I see our winged pursuer has come to our general direction.  Let's find a depression to hide in, and I'll call on the aid of Alnin to help us obscure ourselves.  It'll only be a mist, but on this mountain, we may pass the depression off as a volcanic vent.  Maybe have the person best at hiding stay out and see when the birdman flies off."   The centaur then turns to the captive halfling.   "Oh, and if you try to pull ANYTHING, well, just think about what you'll say to Sheirin when you get to meet him today." 

With that, the centaur immediately starts to look for such a place to hide.

 
 Spoiler 
Will search for a suitable depression, then when we get into it, Tuntematon will cast Obscuring Mist.

Checks to see if I can find such a depression myself:
 Search:  [roll0]
 Spot:  [roll1]
 
 
 

 "And you were supposed to let me go by know!",  the halfling shouts in return,  "What does it matter anyway. You're too far from most of them already, the only one who could still follow you is the birdguy, and he ain't strong enough to fight all of you by himself." 

There is a formation of rocks that could grant cover to at least some of your large party. Whether they still could be spotted, depends on how perceptive the winged man is.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 At the time of early dusk, Eldien draws their attention to a distant figure on the eastern sky, currently over the Dead Valley.  "I believe our winged follower has returned",  she says, squinting her eyes,  "Don't think he has located us yet." 
 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 20 
You confirm her sighting.
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Alright, looks like we need to put our discussions on hold for a little bit, I see our winged pursuer has come to our general direction.  Let's find a depression to hide in, and I'll call on the aid of Alnin to help us obscure ourselves.  It'll only be a mist, but on this mountain, we may pass the depression off as a volcanic vent.  Maybe have the person best at hiding stay out and see when the birdman flies off."   The centaur then turns to the captive halfling.   "Oh, and if you try to pull ANYTHING, well, just think about what you'll say to Sheirin when you get to meet him today." 

With that, the centaur immediately starts to look for such a place to hide.

 
 Spoiler 
Will search for a suitable depression, then when we get into it, Tuntematon will cast Obscuring Mist.

Checks to see if I can find such a depression myself:
 Search:  [roll0]
 Spot:  [roll1]
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "And you were supposed to let me go by know!",  the halfling shouts in return,  "What does it matter anyway. You're too far from most of them already, the only one who could still follow you is the birdguy, and he ain't strong enough to fight all of you by himself." 

There is a formation of rocks that could grant cover to at least some of your large party. Whether they still could be spotted, depends on how perceptive the winged man is. 
 

Lily squints up at the sky, but sees nothing.  "Is this 'birdguy' dangerous? If so, I'm fine with shooting him. Seems to solve most problems."  She looks quickly at the halfling prisoner.  "Sorry if he's your friend. But I like not dying." 
CWater
The party decides its best to try to catch the flier following them, and come up with a plan to get him down. They gag their prisoner and sprinkle some of the illusion dust they have on Lily, and it creates strange tricks of light, making her look like him, at least to the casual observer. Then Lily climbs up the hill, to wait for a opportune moment to run back down to get the birdman's attention. The others hide in the cover of the rocks, weapons ready. Kanok removes his armour, so he can move more freely. Stiira hides at another spot, some tens of feet away from them.

They wait, and after a time the birdman circles closer, his gaze passing by the area where they are.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
 


He doesn't change his course, which suggests he hasn't noticed anything suspicous.
CWater
When their target is close enough, Lily runs down the hill waving her arms wildly. She doesn't shout, as the disguise hasn't altered her voice any. The birdman spots her and quickly changes his course towards her, descending while he nears.

He resembles much a human or elf, except that his head is more cone-shaped than the members of those species, and the body is more lithe. Then there are of course the large grey wings that sprout from his back. He's carrying a longbow and quiver, but has no armour over his clothes or other visible gear.

 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
Though with longer hair, no armor and not holding the bow like that.

 
 


He flies over Lily's head, twenty feet above ground level.  "You got away then?",  he shouts.

 
 Spoiler 
Will Save:  (1d20)[ 19 ] 
Disguise:  (1d20+8)[ 11 ] 
Spot: [roll]1d20+9[roll]

EDIT: Agh, messed that up. Well, he made the Will save already, so it doesn't matter.
 


He squints his eyes.  "Wait..." 
He flaps his wings and it looks like he's about to fly higher again.

 
 Spoiler: Party's turn 
You've got one surprise round, before initiative is rolled.
The raptoran is 20 ft. above Lily.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily quickly throws the net before the moment evaporates.


Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
CWater
The raptoran instinctively evades the flung object and the net flies past him. The winged man's eyes widen.  "You are not Riih!" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok rushes out from his hiding place at a dead run, leaving his squished captive behind.

 
 Spoiler 
Moves 50ft closer.

I should be below him next round after 10ft, right?  Is there anything he could jump off of that's higher than the ground, like a boulder?  Regardless, can he keep his "20ft running headstart" for a jump on his next turn?
 
CWater
Kanok tries to grab the raptoran, but he's too high for him to reach. Taesha hurries after him, watching her step this time, and throws a spear at the birdman, aiming at his left wing.

 
 Spoiler 

Called Shot on the wing:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ]  (-2 penalty from easy difficulty, and -2 from 1 range increment included)
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 4 ] 

If hit, in Pathfinder he would need to make a Fly check or descend 10 feet. Since that is not a skill in 3.5 however, I'm going to rule it as a Fort save DC 10 + 1/2*damage taken. (That original DC 10 is ridiculously low imo.) This sound ok to you?

It  could  also be a Concentration check, but since only casters usually invest in that skill, I think a Fort save would be more fair.

EDIT: I think it's becoming very clear that the spear is not Taesha's weapon. Her record with that is... less than great.
 


It flies past its target.
Athedia
Asha grabbed the halfling and pulled him within view of the birdman.  Her bone spur pointing straight at the Halfling's gut.   "This the friend you were looking for?  Land so we can talk." 
Etherion
Aidan also takes aim at the birdman's wing, and lets loose an arrow.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 

Not sure if I'm out of 1st range increment or not, so just add the modifier if necessary.
 
Rathgar
Seeing how the Raptoran isn't going to just come down and fight hand to hand as readily as he had hoped, Tuntematon decides to pray to Anlin to morph his sling stones.  Suddenly, three of the more jagged ones take on the form of small granite pelicans, ready to be launched.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions: Casting Magic Stone
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Skill Check 
Intimidate:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan also takes aim at the birdman's wing, and lets loose an arrow.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
 (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 
[roll1]

Not sure if I'm out of 1st range increment or not, so just add the modifier if necessary.
 
 
 

The arrow pierces the raptoran's wing and his flight falters, leading him to lose altitude.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha grabbed the halfling and pulled him within view of the birdman.  Her bone spur pointing straight at the Halfling's gut.   "This the friend you were looking for?  Land so we can talk."  
 

 
 Spoiler 
Opposed roll:  (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 
 

 "Wait!" , the birdman shouts when he sees them and descends the rest of the way to the ground.  "We'll talk. Don't strike a man who is bound." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The arrow pierces the raptoran's wing and his flight falters, leading him to lose altitude.



 
 Spoiler 
Opposed roll: [roll0]
 

 "Wait!" , the birdman shouts when he sees them and descends the rest of the way to the ground.  "We'll talk. Don't strike a man who is bound."  
 

 "Weapons down, all of them."   Asha kept the spur to the halfling, nodding to Stiira and Eldien that it was safe.   "Your friend didn't give us many answers.  How many are you and why are you here?"   She stayed a good distance from the birdman.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Weapons down, all of them."   Asha kept the spur to the halfling, nodding to Stiira and Eldien that it was safe.   "Your friend didn't give us many answers.  How many are you and why are you here?"   She stayed a good distance from the birdman. 
 

The raptoran takes the bow from his back, but doesn't drop it. However, he doesn't pick up an arrow to draw either.  "I came after them alone",  he says, looking around to get a glance of all the members of this party.  "Where is Karho? The human, who was left at cave too."  His accent is strong, but understandable.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The raptoran takes the bow from his back, but doesn't drop it. However, he doesn't pick up an arrow to draw either.  "I came after them alone",  he says, looking around to get a glance of all the members of this party.  "Where is Karho? The human, who was left at cave too."  His accent is strong, but understandable. 
 

 "The follower of the Betrayer has a name?  He was unconscious and large, he could provide neither information or be carried." 
CWater
 "...There was no trace of him",  the birdman replies, looking serious,  "Why did you take Riih with you?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "...There was no trace of him",  the birdman replies, looking serious,  "Why did you take Riih with you?"  
 

 "If he tried to follow us then the desert probably got him.  As for Riih, he knew our plans.  We wanted to avoid running into your people for as long as we could.  He could have died many times over, but we kept him alive." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "If he tried to follow us then the desert probably got him.  As for Riih, he knew our plans.  We wanted to avoid running into your people for as long as we could.  He could have died many times over, but we kept him alive."  
 

 "...Right. He may have."  The raptoran answers in a bleak tone, still holding the bow tight in his hand. For a moment he doesn't move or say another word, considering what to do next.

 
 Spoiler 
You can do/say something or wait for him to continue.
 
Seharvepernfan
 "We can kill him, and that one,"  Kanok says to the group as a whole, while pointing at the halfling,  "and their tribe will never know where we are.  We will blind their eye in the sky."   He stares at the birdman for a moment,  "Or we can let them go, and they will know that we are merciful, if foolish."   In a quieter tone, he addresses the birdman,  "Your friends will end the world if they unravel the mountains knot.  It has been shown to us.  Is this what you seek?" 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily looked askance at Asha for her threats against an unarmed man, but refrained from further angering the terrifying tribeswoman.
  "Kanok, should I shoot this one?"  She whispered, perhaps a little too loudly.
Athedia
 "If he will not harm us, we will not harm him."   Bloodthirsty little thing, Asha looked at Lily with thinly veiled disgust.  How primitive her people must be, wearing totems of flesh and willingly attacking during negotiations.

 
 Spoiler 
So are you back then Axe?  Remember to send me the character sheet.  Also I have a feeling Lily and Asha really really don't understand each other.  Also I had a nightmare that we were roommates next year in a room a 1/4th the size of the old one because my apartment had been given to faculty.
 
CWater
The birdman glares at them warily and his posture changes, it seems he could jump to a new flight quickly. But he answers Kanok, squinting his eyes,  "I don't know what you say. My friends seek only strength, to protect their tribe." 
Athedia
 "The strength you seek would doom all our peoples.  The Ancestors showed me visions of what would come, nothing but stillness and despair."   As the birdman shifted, Asha pressed the point tighter on the front of the halfling.
CWater
Their new acquaintance hesitates.  "...Why do you think this? Who are your ancestors?" 
Rathgar
 "It was not just her ancestors, but also, Tieteir, sibling of Alnin, of whom I am a prophet." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 "It all seemed very important,"  Lily added, making at least a token effort at peace.
CWater
 "I know of the Moon Goddess. Her visions hold truth, but surrounded in madness..."  The birdman looks uncertain.

 
 Spoiler 
Ah, time for a Diplomacy I think.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy Check:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
 

 "But if their gods and my Ancestors all agree, then surely madness doesn't cloud our vision." 
CWater
The raptoran stares at Asha for a moment, not blinking. Finally he shakes his head and says,  "I don't believe you. You threaten a bound man. You neither spare or kill another, leave him to an uncertain fate that may never be known. You have no honour." 

Right after the last word, the birdman suddenly spreads his wings and takes flight.

 
 Spoiler 
If you win Initiative, you can act before him.

Raptoran:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 

Kanok:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Aidan:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 
Asha:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
Tuntematon:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Lily:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Stiira:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 

Eldien:  (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Riih:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Fang:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 
Rathgar
 "Wait, we cannot allow you to go back!"   Knowing that he can't risk letting the birdman get out of sling range, the centaur lets loose a sling stone in the hopes of stopping him.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to within one range increment
Standard Action: Attack with sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Wait, we cannot allow you to go back!"   Knowing that he can't risk letting the birdman get out of sling range, the centaur lets loose a sling stone in the hopes of stopping him.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to within one range increment
Standard Action: Attack with sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (2d6)[ 6 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20)[ 2 ] 
 Damage:  [roll2]
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):  [roll3]
 
 
 

The pelican shaped stone hits the birdman hard in the chest, but he still seems intent on ascending.

Stiira stands up from her hiding place and beam of light bursts forth from her palms.

 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Sunstroke, so I overlooked about this spell earlier, when the original ambush plan was made. Sorry. -_-'
Non-lethal damage:  (2d6)[ 6 ] 
Fort save DC 14 or Fatigued:  (1d20)[ 2 ]  this is without modifier,  I'll check it once I get home . Ah, no need. It's not THAT good, this much I remember. :J
 


The spell takes effect and the winged man takes a staggering step back.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Aidan and Lily still have a turn before the enemy if they want to utilize it.
 
Etherion
Aidan sighs and takes another shot at the birdmans wing.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
Called shot wing (-5, right?)
 (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily frowned.   No, you can't leave,   she thought to herself as she fired a shot.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Enter Frenzy (+4STR, DEX) (6 rounds remaining)

2.) Standard action: Shoot using Point Blank Shot (Assuming within 30')

Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 21 ]  (+12 ranged, +1PBS, +1magic, +1Weapon focus, -2 size)

Critical Confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  
 Spoiler: attack 
Called shot wing (-5, right?)
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Only -2 actually, limbs are an easy target.
 


The arrows sink to the raptoran's wing and shoulder. He is unable to take flight and also heavily wounded, reconsiders the situation. He drops down on one knee and places his bow on the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
 Party's turn. 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stows his bow and retrieves his spear, moving up to the man and leveling the spear at this neck.  He looks to the rest of the group, awaiting their decision.

 
 Spoiler 
Readied action to attack if he tries to do...anything, really.  He better not move.
 
Athedia
 "Why don't people listen?"  Asha kneed the halfling prisoner forward, careful to keep a grip on him.   "I threaten a bound man because compared to you I am bound.  There is no easy way to ground a bird.  You say you wish to protect your tribe, you also say we have no honor.  I do not know about your ways but letting loose a great evil to provide strength is not an honorable act.  It is one of foolishness and greed.  You protect all tribes by keeping the evil sealed." 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy?? X-fingers

 (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 

YES! YES! YES! YES! *Does happy dance*
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok stows his bow and retrieves his spear, moving up to the man and leveling the spear at this neck.  He looks to the rest of the group, awaiting their decision.

 
 Spoiler 
Readied action to attack if he tries to do...anything, really.  He better not move.
 
 
 

The winged man draws his head back slightly when the spearhead comes close, but makes otherwise no movement.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Why don't people listen?"  Asha kneed the halfling prisoner forward, careful to keep a grip on him.   "I threaten a bound man because compared to you I am bound.  There is no easy way to ground a bird.  You say you wish to protect your tribe, you also say we have no honor.  I do not know about your ways but letting loose a great evil to provide strength is not an honorable act.  It is one of foolishness and greed.  You protect all tribes by keeping the evil sealed." 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy?? X-fingers

[roll0]

YES! YES! YES! YES! *Does happy dance*
 
 
 

 "That would be so..." , the man admits. He thinks for a moment before speaking again.  "You claim they are true, the old tales of the cursed mountain? My own folk, they tell them too.. But my friends, they said those were wrong, stories made only to scare and hide. You say-" , he pauses, searching for words,  "You say they are wrong of the truth? Or worse, speak lies."  He looks hesitant, still unsure of what to believe, but throws a doubtbul glance at Riih whom Asha is holding. Gagged as he is, the halfling can't answer with words, and he doesn't even seem to try to communicate.

 
 Spoiler 
Nice roll.🙂

Btw, I don't think you haven't included your Circlet of Persuation bonus on these rolls.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The winged man draws his head back slightly when the spearhead comes close, but makes otherwise no movement.



 "That would be so..." , the man admits. He thinks for a moment before speaking again.  "You claim they are true, the old tales of the cursed mountain? My own folk, they tell them too.. But my friends, they said those were wrong, stories made only to scare and hide. You say-" , he pauses, searching for words,  "You say they are wrong of the truth? Or worse, speak lies."  He looks hesitant, still unsure of what to believe, but throws a doubtbul glance at Riih whom Asha is holding. Gagged as he is, the halfling can't answer with words, and he doesn't even seem to try to communicate.

 
 Spoiler 
Nice roll.🙂

Btw, I don't think you haven't included your Circlet of Persuation bonus on these rolls.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
I forgot to add that bonus to my sheet.  Thanks 😁
 


Asha straightened up, more confident in herself.   "I can't know if they are lying or simply misled.  Believe your people above all, the stories of the past, passed down from your people's Ancestors.  Do your people tell you to stories on the dangers of rabbits?  No, they tell you to be wary of giants."   She paused a second and looked at the birdman.   "Or giant birds.  Things that can easily do you harm." 
CWater
 "Maybe... I was sure my friends would know what they are doing. But maybe they don't. I must speak to Shinden. If there is even a chance of true danger, they can't continue." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grins and removes the spear, planting it's butt on the ground.   "You know them, would they listen?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok grins and removes the spear, planting it's butt on the ground.   "You know them, would they listen?"  
 

The birdman stares at the ground.  "Y-yes... I think so. Not all maybe. But Shinden is in command, if she listens, others will too. She is not stupid." 
CWater
With the spearpoint removed, the raptoran careful sits up more straight.  "I can go?",  he asks and looks from Kanok to Asha,  "What about Riih?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 With the spearpoint removed, the raptoran careful sits up more straight.  "I can go?",  he asks and looks from Kanok to Asha,  "What about Riih?"  
 

 "If we let you leave with him, I need a promise.  You will not report our location.  He will be blindfolded and the blindfold will not be removed til you are finished crossing the desert." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "If we let you leave with him, I need a promise.  You will not report our location.  He will be blindfolded and the blindfold will not be removed til you are finished crossing the desert."  
 

 "You let us leave with no more harm, and I promise this." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You let us leave with no more harm, and I promise this."  
 

Asha looked at the rest of the group waiting for their response before she would escort Riih to the birdman.
Seharvepernfan
Thinking that it will not matter regardless, Kanok shrugs and waves for the others to follow him.

 
 Spoiler 
I say let em go.  We won't be here after they leave anyway.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You let us leave with no more harm, and I promise this."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Thinking that it will not matter regardless, Kanok shrugs and waves for the others to follow him.

 
 Spoiler 
I say let em go.  We won't be here after they leave anyway.
 
 
 

Lily follows after Kanok, pausing for a moment near Asha.  "Well? We have his word." 
Athedia
Asha nodded at the others, spinning the halfling and pulling his shirt up over his head.  "He doesn't remove this.  Not til you land on the other side of the desert."  Turning him again she directed him toward the birdman.   "And you.  You can barely fly like that, let alone carry him."   She reached out and slowly offered her hand out, waiting for his permission to touch his wing.

 
 Spoiler: Healing Belt 
 (2d8)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Thinking that it will not matter regardless, Kanok shrugs and waves for the others to follow him.

 
 Spoiler 
I say let em go.  We won't be here after they leave anyway.
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily follows after Kanok, pausing for a moment near Asha.  "Well? We have his word."  
 

 "Right",  Taesha agrees,  "Let's go." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha nodded at the others, spinning the halfling and pulling his shirt up over his head.  "He doesn't remove this.  Not til you land on the other side of the desert."  Turning him again she directed him toward the birdman.   "And you.  You can barely fly like that, let alone carry him."   She reached out and slowly offered her hand out, waiting for his permission to touch his wing.

 
 Spoiler: Healing Belt 
[roll0]
 
 
 

Riih puts up some slight protest, but does not try to remove the cloth. The raptoran looks at Asha curiously when she heals him.  "Thank you. We will rest before I can fly again." 
Rathgar
 "Well, I don't know if we can keep the two of you for much longer, seeing how we are getting to have too many mouths to feed at the moment.  In any case, there should be enough food for another day anyhow." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Right",  Taesha agrees,  "Let's go." 



Riih puts up some slight protest, but does not try to remove the cloth. The raptoran looks at Asha curiously when she heals him.  "Thank you. We will rest before I can fly again."  
 

Asha noticed the look he gave her.  "The Ancestors wish me to fix this world, not harm it.  Even if I must harm sometimes, I should help those who are seeing the path of their Ancestors.  Yours might not speak to you, but they have still shared their lessons.  You should listen to them." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha noticed the look he gave her.  "The Ancestors wish me to fix this world, not harm it.  Even if I must harm sometimes, I should help those who are seeing the path of their Ancestors.  Yours might not speak to you, but they have still shared their lessons.  You should listen to them."  
 

Lily snorted appreciatively.  "Ancestors or elders, same thing really."  Maybe Asha did have a point.

 
 Spoiler: Color? 
Um, Athedia, is not Asha supposed to be green?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily snorted appreciatively.  "Ancestors or elders, same thing really."  Maybe Asha did have a point.

 
 Spoiler: Color? 
Um, Athedia, is not Asha supposed to be green?
 
 
 

Asha gave Lily a sidelong look.  "Our Elders are alive, the Ancestors came back to guide us." 
 
 Spoiler 
Fixed it.
I think I was posting for Badger and Asha and just mixed things up
 
CWater
The party leaves the birdman and their former prisoner behind and continue their ascent of the mountain. The Fiery Maw is not as barren as the Fifth, but it is not exactly a lush environment either and the party spots little lifeforms that don't grow attached to some surface. Time passes and the setting sun burns brightly on the western side of the sky when suddenly, they are greeted by a curious sight. Small fires are burning inbetween the cracks in the rock ahead. As the wanderers move closer to inspect, they see that the small flames don't seem to feed on anything and yet they continue to burn. First there are only a few here and there, but as they continue further up they see more and more of them, until the fires cover the entire mountainside.

 
 Spoiler: Visual aid 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
The fires are in about as dense as trees in a forest. It is possible to walk past them without harm, but they are hot to the touch.

Spot and Listen checks, please.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Spot DC 25 
They almost blend to the background, but some 600 ft. to the north, there are fires that are different from the others. (Uphill is currently north-west.) For one, they are moving towards the party and they are also larger (about the size of a wolf) and their shape more steady that the normal flickering of flame.

There are nine of them in total.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok points off into the distance, yelling at the group,  "Aidan!  Lily!  There, the approaching flames!"   He then begins furiously looking for a defensive position nearby, like an isolated spur or a stand of boulders, or better yet, a cave.

 
 Spoiler 
Another spot?

 (1d20+11)[ 27 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Only reason I am not bothering a check is I have a +1 modifier.
 


Asha gave Kanok a curious look.   "Yes, we are approaching the flames.  I admit I don't like the looks of that mountaintop, but isn't that where we are supposed to go?" 
Etherion
 No, the flames are approaching  us . 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  No, the flames are approaching  us .  
 

 "Oh,"  Lily said simply.  "That's bad."  She looked glumly at her bow before raising it defensively. She probably couldn't shoot fire, but she could certainly try.

 
 Spoiler: Spot... 

The spot check is certainly not being attempted, as Lily's modifier is -1. 🙂
 
Athedia
Asha stared at Kanok and Aidan.   "Smart fire?"   She summoned the bone spur and looked down at it sadly.   "How do we fight off fires without being burnt?" 
Rathgar
 "Well, it looks like we've got more flaming somethings to deal with.  Alnin, lend me your aid, that we might stop this fire as well."   With that, the centaur said a prayer over three of his rocks, and they turned into perfect obsidian spheres.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Magic Stone on three pieces of ammunition.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha stared at Kanok and Aidan.   "Smart fire?"   She summoned the bone spur and looked down at it sadly.   "How do we fight off fires without being burnt?"  
 

 "With difficulty",  Taesha says frowning and her claws come out.

The pack of approaching fire creatures is soon noticed by all. They have a body, about the same size as a wolf or large dog has, and four legs, but otherwise they don't resemble any normal animal. They move closer fast, from your party only Tuntematon could likely outrun them.

 
 Spoiler: Map, etc. 
Check OOC for info about turns.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
This area is relatively even and you  can  run or charge without any penalties through normal (light grey) squares.
The dark grey squares are larger rocks that require a Climb to move into (DC varies).
Red squares have a 'normal' stationary fire. You can move through them without harm, but they have x2 movement cost  or  require a DC 7 Jump check to avoid burns. With a successful check, they don't prevent a charge.
M is the unconscious man.
The moving fires are not yet on the map.

 
 

 
Rathgar
As the flaming beasts approached, Tuntematon got ready to start launching his magical stones at them when one of them gets within range.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll go ahead and roll an attack roll to save some time.

 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 As the flaming beasts approached, Tuntematon got ready to start launching his magical stones at them when one of them gets within range.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll go ahead and roll an attack roll to save some time.

 Attack With Sling:  [roll0]
 Damage With Sling:  [roll1]
 
 
 

The sphere flies right at the fire creature that is running in the lead of the pack and smacks it hard on the front of the body, where the head would be on a normal being.

 
 Spoiler 
At 200 ft. distance, penalty for sling was -8.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily ignored the rest of the party, focusing only on the coming fight. As soon as she could line up a shot, she fired at the fire-beasts.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

I believe this is two rounds worth of actions.

1.) Activate ferocity (+4 dex, str)

2.) Attack at -8 penalty:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 

3.) Attack at -4 penalty:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 12 ] 
Critical Confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily ignored the rest of the party, focusing only on the coming fight. As soon as she could line up a shot, she fired at the fire-beasts.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

I believe this is two rounds worth of actions.

1.) Activate ferocity (+4 dex, str)

2.) Attack at -8 penalty: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Critical confirmation, if needed: [roll2]

3.) Attack at -4 penalty: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]
Critical Confirmation, if needed: [roll5]
 
 
 

With deadly precision Lily's first arrow pierces one creature's throat and with a puff of smoke it disappears. Her second arrow also finds its mark and wounds another enemy.

 "I... can cast a spell to make someone stronger, or grow spikes",  Stiira says, fighting the instinct to run.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira will cast Bull's Strength and/or Urchin's Spines on some who look like readying for melee. Taesha will not act, except possibly move.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 With deadly precision Lily's first arrow pierces one creature's throat and with a puff of smoke it disappears. Her second arrow also finds its mark and wounds another enemy.

 "I... can cast a spell to make someone stronger, or grow spikes",  Stiira says, fighting the instinct to run.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira will cast Bull's Strength and/or Urchin's Spines on some who look like readying for melee. Taesha will not act, except possibly move.
 
 
 

Asha stared at Lily in amazement,  "You shot wood at fire, and killed it."  She couldn't believe it.  But now she knew one thing, these creatures could die of mortal wounds.   
 Spoiler 
she will move with the next person to go forward, holding action til then
 
Etherion
Aidan waits as the creatures approach, and once they are sufficiently close, he lets loose a shot.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
My attack modifier is really low, so I'll just take the -4 distance penalty shot.
 (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan waits as the creatures approach, and once they are sufficiently close, he lets loose a shot.

 
 Spoiler: attack 
My attack modifier is really low, so I'll just take the -4 distance penalty shot.
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

His arrow also hits its target and wounds one of them.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok takes a step towards Eldien, drops the man on the ground, and casts a minor spell that sounds like a short chanted prayer.   ''Stiira, give Taesha your strength.  Taesha, get behind those rocks, you can ambush them when they get to us.''   He then walks towards the approaching flames a short ways, and begins another slightly more complicated spell.  Then, he adopts a ready, defensive stance.

 
 Spoiler 
Drops the man in Y13, casts guidance on himself.  Moves to Z8, casts lesser vigor on himself.  Readies a stone bones attack against the first creature to come within range, two-handed, using guidance to boost the roll.

For Taesha, he meant V/W 8 or so, then charge whichever ones come around the rocks, but its just a suggestion.

Stiira is on Fang, right?

 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+12)[ 29 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if successful, gains DR 5 adamantine for 1 round.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Okay, Asha is following him then and staying a little behind so she can let him use that stance
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok takes a step towards Eldien, drops the man on the ground, and casts a minor spell that sounds like a short chanted prayer.   ''Stiira, give Taesha your strength.  Taesha, get behind those rocks, you can ambush them when they get to us.''   He then walks towards the approaching flames a short ways, and begins another slightly more complicated spell.  Then, he adopts a ready, defensive stance.

 
 Spoiler 
Drops the man in Y13, casts guidance on himself.  Moves to Z8, casts lesser vigor on himself.  Readies a stone bones attack against the first creature to come within range, two-handed, using guidance to boost the roll.

For Taesha, he meant V/W 8 or so, then charge whichever ones come around the rocks, but its just a suggestion.

Stiira is on Fang, right?

 Shortspear:   [roll0]
 Damage:   [roll1]
if critical:
 Shortspear:   [roll2]
 Damage:   [roll3]
if successful, gains DR 5 adamantine for 1 round.
 
 
 

Taesha nods and runs into position. When she moves past Stiira, the witch casts a strength increasing spell on her. Next she casts a similar spell on Asha, who moves to join them in the front line, then the halfling backs away a bit. Eldien hops a little forward.

 
 Spoiler 
Yes, Stiira was riding Fang. I did not forget to mark her at all.
 


The fire creatures close distance fast, but about a hundred feet away they slow down and the pack splits to three. Half of the remaining eight continue straight towards the party, two circle to their right and two to the left.

 
 Spoiler 
They are all roughly 90 ft. from you.  Party's turn. 
 
Rathgar
Remembering now a recent revelation to him, Tuntematon trots to behind Kanok and says a new prayer over him.  Suddenly, Kanok began to fill a little bit cooler, as though a breeze suddenly picked up.

 
 Spoiler 
I forgot I had Resist Energy already, I'll start using it on the party right now, looks like we might need it soon.

Actions:
Move Action: Move to X12
Standard Action: Cast Resist Energy on Kanok, giving Fire Resistance 10, duration 40 minutes
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily smiled as the enemy went down and turned to the next in line, firing another arrow at the flames.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack
Attack roll:  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
I assume she targeted one of those four that come towards you directly.
 


With her excellent archery skills, Lily shoots another fire beast, which flickers out of existence.
CWater
Stiira realizes she was to do one more spell and hurries back to cast the spike enchantment on Asha.

 
 Spoiler: Spell 
Urchin's Spines
 


Kanok stays in position, ready to strike, as does Taesha. Alidan shoots one more arrow at the wounded fire creature, but it evades this one.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 


The three beasts straight ahead charge forward and Kanok strikes the first one that gets to him, wounding it.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
F1
Slam:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 

F2
Slam:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

F3
Slam:  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

There is also fire damage, but Kanok is shielded from it. Though funny enough, he can still catch fire if any of the attacks hit, DC 14 Ref save. Up to you whether he wants to try avoiding it, as it can't currently hurt him.
 


The fire creatures claw at the warrior, but leave a mere scratch and the centaur's spell protects him from their fire.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
This area is relatively even and you can run or charge without any penalties through normal (light grey) squares.
The dark grey squares are larger rocks that require a Climb to move into (DC varies).
Red squares have a 'normal' stationary fire. You can move through them without harm, but they have x2 movement cost or require a DC 7 Jump check to avoid burns. With a successful check, they don't prevent a charge.
M is the unconscious man.
F1-F7 are the fire creatures. Just F is Fang!
 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily shoots again, this time targeting the nearest beast so as not to accidentally shoot a companion.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack vs. F4, using the feat Point Blank Shot
Attack:  (1d20+14)[ 23 ]  (This is higher as the 30' penalty is not being applied, as well as PBS)

Critical Confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+14)[ 18 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
His work cut out for him, Kanok lets out a short primal yell and lunges into the wounded fire-beast, thrusting his spear into it's burning guts.

 
 Spoiler 
Gonna skip that reflex save, I like the idea of fighting while covered in harmless flames.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 8 ] 
if critical:
 Shortspear:   (1d20+11)[ 25 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 

Then activate the force shield.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19
Position Z9 

Noticing the threats coming in from the sides, Tuntematon slung a magical stone towards one of the firebeasts attempting to encircle the adventurers.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attacking Monster F5 with sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 Damage (If Undead):   (2d6+2)[ 10 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan puts his bow away and readies his axes, preparing for the fire beasts to attack.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Put bow away, take out axes, and end turn.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Asha moves to AA8 (5 foot step) uses Whirlwind attack to attack F2 and F3

I don't remember how my bone spur rapier works, but it is just a normal rapier right?

F2:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 12 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

F3:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 

Dang forgot my reflex rolls, will put those OOC
 


Asha took a step forward and stabbed fluidly, moving as if the bone spur was part of an elegant dance.  The only part of her betraying the fear of the fire was the curled up fist counterbalancing her stabs.
CWater
Lily and Tuntematon both hit their targets, and so does Kanok, roaring while covered in flames. Asha's first strike misses, but the second is successful and she can feel the bone pierce the fire's solid center.

Taesha takes a step back, and then runs and jumps to attack the beast wounded earlier by arrows.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Auto-passes Jump check.
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 12 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 7 ] 

AC 13 until next turn.
 

Her left arm slashes cuts its throat and it disappears.

Stiira loads her sling and throws a stone at one of the creatures, the same one Lily targeted.
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 3 ] 
 

But the stone flies right over its head.

Eldien takes a defensive stance, ready to defend herself should the enemy come close.
 
 Spoiler 
Total defence.
 
CWater
Noticing that their attacks didn't do much to the yelling man, the fires take a step towards the women and claw at them instead.

One of the creatures on the eastern side charges right past Lily and jumps at Eldien. The other follows behind it, but this one goes for the man on the ground.

From the other side, one fire also runs to attack the unconscious man, the other charges at Aidan.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
F2, targets  Taesha 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 2 ] 

F3, targets  Asha 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 2 ] 

F4, targets unconscious man
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 1 ] 

F5, targets  Eldien 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

F6, targets  Aidan 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

F7, targets unconscious man
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 If any hits, Ref DC 14 or catch fire. 
Rolling for Taesha  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  and Eldien  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  here already, so I don't need to triple post.

EDIT:
Ok,  Party's turn. 
 


Aidan and Asha manage to evade their fiery claws, but Taesha is hit and her clothes catch fire. Eldien is clawed and burned badly, but somehow avoids being set on fire. The man lying on the ground on the other hand starts to burn happily.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
This area is relatively even and you can run or charge without any penalties through normal (light grey) squares.
The dark grey squares are larger rocks that require a Climb to move into (DC varies).
Red squares have a 'normal' stationary fire. You can move through them without harm, but they have x2 movement cost or require a DC 7 Jump check to avoid burns. With a successful check, they don't prevent a charge.
M is the unconscious man.
F2-F7 are the fire creatures. Just F is Fang!
 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 N

Aidan and Asha manage to evade their fiery claws, but Taesha is hit and her clothes catch fire. Eldien is clawed and burned badly, but somehow avoids being set on fire. The man lying on the ground on the other hand starts to burn happily. 
 


Lily grumbled under her breath and stepped back from the nearest creature before shooting.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Five foot step to AB-13, so as not to catch on fire
.
2.) Attack F4 (Point Blank Shot in use)

Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 23 ] 
Critical Confirmation, if needed: [roll]1d20+13]

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 8 ] 

2 rounds of Ferocity remaining

Lily has no way to help the man as she cannot make most skill checks right now. Sorry!
 
Etherion
Aidan moves to defend the unconscious man, and attacks one of the fiery beasts attacking him.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5 ft step to X13, then smack F7.

Battleaxe:
 (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 3 ] 

Handaxe:
 (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha spun around and made her way back toward the huddled pack and burning man, slicing and stabbing at all enemies she passed.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving to AA14, passing F3, F5, and F4
This time I am using Dance of Death 😏

F3:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

F5:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

Edit: I believe rapiers have a threat range of 18-20

F4:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Growling at the creatures as they ignored him, Kanok scans the battlefield to see what they are up to.  Noticing their concentration on the sprawled man, he immediately runs over to protect him.  Arriving, he jabs his spear into the nearest wounded beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Leaving shield up, moves to Y13 (the square with the man, in case I read that wrong), attacks F5.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 14, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 11
HP 19/19, Blurred (3 Rounds Remaining)
Starting PositionZ9, Ending Position Y15 

Noticing the firebeasts continuing to encircle the group, Tuntematon let his last magic stone fly, then ran around to possibly distract them from the most vulnerable of the group.  Once behind said beasts, the centaur let out the magic word,  "Hämärtää!" , and his outline became once again indistinct.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Standard Action: Attack F6 With Sling
Move Action: Move to Y15 (55 ft. of movement)

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 Damage If Undead:   (2d6+2)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Asha dances past the fire creatures, stabbing each in turn, but they also claw at her, severy wounding and burning her.

 
 Spoiler 
Rapiers crit 18-20, yes. But unfortunately 14 doesn't confirm.

F3, AoO
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

F5, AoO
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

If hits, Ref DC 14 or catch fire

17 damage in total
 
CWater
When Kanok runs to defend the man, the fire left behind tries to claw his back.

 
 Spoiler 
Oh right, Kanok also leaves a threatened square.

Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  fire is negated and he's also already on fire
 
CWater
The fires move to attack, one left behind circles around to attack Lily. The man on the ground burns a little, but then miraculously, the fire goes out.

 
 Spoiler 
Burn damage to the unconscious:  (1d6)[ 1 ] 
The fire will burn for  (1d4)[ 1 ]  or  (1d4)[ 1 ]  rounds, whichever number is larger.

If Kanok didn't have Resist Energy, I'd ask for Ref save since he's sharing the man's space. But as it is, he would hardly notice.

EDIT: Well, look at that, he's lucky. His deity must like him.

Attacks on party

F2, targets Taesha
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 4 ] 

F3, targets Lily
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

F4, targets Asha
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

F5, targets Asha
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 2 ] 

F6, targets Aidan
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 6 ] 

F7 targets Aidan
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  and fire  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

Anyone who is hit, Ref save DC 14 or catch fire.
 

Asha is hit, but the others evade the claws.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
CWater
This should have come before the previous post:

Stiira throws another stone at one fire, Taesha lashes at her foe.

 
 Spoiler 
Stiira, at F3
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d3)[ 3 ] 

Taesha, at F2
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 15 ] 
 


Eldien takes a clumsy  step  jump back, staying on her guard.
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily turns and shoots at the nearest fire creature, unwilling to step back and risk impalement on Asha's spines, even if it did mean getting burned.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack F3, using point blank shot

Attack roll:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+13)[ 30 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha gritted her teeth at the pain of the wounds and fire mixed together.  Focusing all her pain into her attacks she lashed out at the creatures in front of her before taking a step back toward Lily.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack F5 and F4 with Whirlwind Attack (no cooldown) and then 5-foot step to AB14

F5:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

F4:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan strikes at the fire again.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
hitting f7 again:
battleaxe: [1d20+5[/roll]
Second chance strike if it misses:  (1d20)[ 6 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 6 ] 

Handaxe:
 (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily turns and shoots at the nearest fire creature, unwilling to step back and risk impalement on Asha's spines, even if it did mean getting burned.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack F3, using point blank shot

Attack roll: [roll0]
Critical confirmation, if needed: [roll1]

Damage: [roll2]
 
 
 

Lily's foot slips and this arrow flies up towards the sky.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha gritted her teeth at the pain of the wounds and fire mixed together.  Focusing all her pain into her attacks she lashed out at the creatures in front of her before taking a step back toward Lily.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack F5 and F4 with Whirlwind Attack (no cooldown) and then 5-foot step to AB14

F5:
Attack: [roll0]
Crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

F4:
Attack: [roll3]
Crit: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
 
 
 

Despite the burning fire, Asha strikes true. Her second jab sinks deep to the creatures core and it vanishes.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan strikes at the fire again.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
hitting f7 again:
battleaxe: [1d20+5[/roll]
Second chance strike if it misses: [roll0]
[roll1]

Handaxe:
[roll2]
[roll3]
 
 
 

Aidan's first attack slashes the fire beast.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Kanok and Tuntematon are up.

F4 is gone.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok adds his attack to Aidan's, taking his spear in both hands and thrusting it through the creature.

 
 Spoiler 
Dropping the shield, attacking F7 two-handed.

 Shortspear:   (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 13 ] 
if critical
 Shortspear:   (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+7)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
Tuntematon swings his club at the closest fire beast, but it doesn't connect.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
 


Taesha jumps a somersault and slashes the enemy in front of her with her claws. It tries to strike back her, but misses and then the warrior tears the fire apart with both her hands and feet.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump 5 ft. straight up, DC 40:  (1d20+28)[ 40 ]  Ring of Jumping included. AC 13 until next round.

Targeting F2
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 15 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 8 ] 

If the Jump check fails, only the first attack is made.

If the Jump succeeds, the enemy get an AoO, as she moves out of a threatened square upwards.
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 


Stiira brushes her fingers against the pearl in her hair and concentrates to recall a spell she cast earlier today.

 
 Spoiler 
I had misremembered this before, using Pearl of Power to ger a spell back is a standard action, so it's not possible to cast it on the same round. Will remember this in the future.

Recalls Lesser Orb of Cold.
 


Eldien hops forward, to strike the fire that wounded Asha, but her balance is bad and she barely manages to keep herself from falling on the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Targets F5
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
The hostile fires still don't relent. The one next to Lily runs past her, and first it looks like its going for Eldien, but just before reaching her it turns to its left and lunges at the human on the ground.

The beast now next to it continues to claw the group's binder, while one of the two on the other side keeps its focus on the ranger. The last one takes a step forward and also reaches for the helpless human. The is badly burnt now, and his clothes are on fire again.

 
 Spoiler 
 F2, targets  Taesha 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 7 ]   Ignore, it was slain last round.

F3, targets the unconscious man
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

F5, targets  Asha 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

F6, targets the  unconscious man
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 

F7, targets  Aidan 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 11 ]  right, +2 from flank, but it's still a miss
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ]  + fire  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 


Thanks to the speed Paimon lends her, Asha manages to step aside and the fiery claws only barely scrape her armour. Aidan also evades them, fully on his own merits.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily fired one last shot at the nearest group of flames before suddenly blinking as its outline doubled and a wave of nausea washed over her.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack F5, using PBS
Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed  (1d20+13)[ 33 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 


2.) Ferocity ends, Lily is sickened until the encounter ends. (-2 attack rolls, damage rolls, saving throws, skills, ability checks) [Technically this occurs at the end of this round]


[roll]
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok drops his spear, reaches down, picks the man up, and charges out of the melee, as fast as he can.

 
 Spoiler 

Bring on those AoO's!

If he's 150lbs or less, I'm at medium encumberance.  If he's more, I have an additional -3 check penalty.

Move to y14, then to z15, then to z17, then use sudden leap to jump as far towards AB21 as he can get.  If you would consider that a straight line, I'd be grateful.

 Jump:   (1d20+2)[ 12 ] , -3 if heavy encumberance.  Halve this distance if it was not a straight line.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily fired one last shot at the nearest group of flames before suddenly blinking as its outline doubled and a wave of nausea washed over her.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Attack F5, using PBS
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

Damage:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 


2.) Ferocity ends, Lily is sickened until the encounter ends. (-2 attack rolls, damage rolls, saving throws, skills, ability checks) [Technically this occurs at the end of this round]


[roll]
 
 
 

As the sickening feeling comes over Lily, her aim slips.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok drops his spear, reaches down, picks the man up, and charges out of the melee, as fast as he can.

 
 Spoiler 

Bring on those AoO's!

If he's 150lbs or less, I'm at medium encumberance.  If he's more, I have an additional -3 check penalty.

Move to y14, then to z15, then to z17, then use sudden leap to jump as far towards AB21 as he can get.  If you would consider that a straight line, I'd be grateful.

 Jump:   (1d20+8)[ 20 ] , -3 if heavy encumberance.  Halve this distance if it was not a straight line.
 
 
 


 
 Spoiler 
Straight line is okay, though in that case I would say that the Jump starts in AA17 and based on the check result, lands in AB19.

AoOs!

F3
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
Damaga:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

F5
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Damaga:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

F6
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
Damaga:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

F7
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Damaga:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 

Ouch, 18 damage in total.
 


The beasts tear deep cuts to Kanok as he reaches down to pick up the man and carry him away.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Aidan ,  Asha  and  Tuntematon  are up.

 
 Spoiler: Current HP 

Kanok: 29/47
Aidan: 41/41
Asha: 11/42
Tuntematon: 34/34
Lily: 55/55
Stiira: 27/27
Fang: 13/13
Taesha: 50/50
Eldien: 7/14

The man has taken 30 damage in total.
 

 
Rathgar
First, seeing that the fallen man was being horribly mauled, Tuntematon said a brief prayer of healing on the man.  He then attempted to get the fire creature to stop attacking the most helpless in the group by clubbing it in the head, possibly stealing its attention.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Immediate Action before turn begins: Cast Close Wounds on the fallen unknown
Standard Action: Attack flame beast with club.

Rolls:
 Concentration to Cast Defensively:   (1d20+9)[ 12 ] 
 Close Wounds:   (2d4+4)[ 9 ] 
 Attack With Club:   (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 Damage With Club:   (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6)[ 2 ] 
 
Athedia
Even as she was in massive pain, Asha still stepped forward, stabbing at the fire creatures that remained near her.   "Why does fire hate this guy‽" 
 
 Spoiler 
5 foot step to AA13 (one square north)

F5:
Attack: (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 

F3:
Attack: (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

Axe, I included the interrobang for you 😏
 
CWater
Asha slays one of the creatures and heavily wounds the other. Aidan slashes at another fire beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Targeting F7
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 

Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

Forgot to add flank, so both hit.
 


Taesha runs towards the commotion and leaps over Fang to strike the enemy, tearing it apart.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump:  (1d20+28)[ 45 ]  Since she also has to jump over Fang, the DC rises to 25, though with the Ring of Jumping, she could stillmake it automatically. But I'm going to say that unless she passes the check by 10 she ends up stepping on Fang as she lands for  (1d3)[ 3 ]  non-lethal to the poor hound.

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 13 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (2d6+5)[ 9 ] 

AC 13.
 


Eldien strikes at the creature Asha wounded and Stiira shoots a orb of ice.

 
 Spoiler 
Eldien, targets F3
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 

Stiira, targets F3, if it is finished earlier, then F7
Ranged Touch Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  (includes -4 from shooting into melee)
Damage:  (2d8)[ 7 ] 
 


The man on Kanok's shoulder is still suffering from the flames.
 
 Spoiler 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
Will burn for  (1d4)[ 4 ]  or  (1d4)[ 2 ]  rounds, whichever is higher.
 
CWater
Their number reduced to two the remaining fire beasts seem to hesitate a moment, but then a loud voice shouts a command and they regain their composure and chase after Kanok. One circles around the warriors from the right side turning its back on Eldien, and the other leaves its side exposed for Aidan and Tuntematon to strike.

 
 Spoiler 

Eldien's AoO at F3
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Tuntematon's AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 


Both Aidan and Tuntematon wound the beast when it runs past them, but not severy enough for it to slay it.

When the two fires catch up with Kanok, they ignore him and reach after for the man he's carrying again.

 
 Spoiler 
I don't think there is a rule for this situation in RAW, but I'm going to treat the man as an equivalent of a carried object. This means that Kanok also gets an AoO against one of the enemies of his choosing. If this attack should slay the enemy, ignore its attack.

F3
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

F7
Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ]  + fire  (1d6)[ 3 ] 

Against AC 11.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily fired again, the bow taking more of an effort to pull back than usual.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

1.) Listen check:  (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 

2.) Attack vs. F3 with PBS(I am unsure of how operating a +3 strength bonus bow works when that bonus is not met, I think I simply do not apply the bonus? Or do I subtract something from the attack roll as well?)

Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 29 ] 

Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+11)[ 29 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 

3.) Move action to AB14
 
Athedia
The fire things were focused on the unconscious man so Asha took the risk and moved toward the one straight south of her.   "I hate fire!"   She shouted as she stabbed at the creature.    This dance to your liking Paimon?  One of us should be having fun.  
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Moving to AA18

Attacking F7:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 
Etherion
Aidan charges at one of the beasts attacking Kanok.
 
 Spoiler: attack 
Charging F3, moving to AB 17

 (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
 (1d8+4)[ 11 ] 
 
CWater
The last of the fire beast are struck and their flames burn out, leaving no trace behind.

 
 Spoiler: For Lily 
The shout came from the west, and not from too far either, though she doesn't see anyone.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 The fire things were focused on the unconscious man so Asha took the risk and moved toward the one straight south of her.   "I hate fire!"   She shouted as she stabbed at the creature.    This dance to your liking Paimon?  One of us should be having fun.  
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Moving to AA18

Attacking F7:
Attack: [roll0]
Crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
 
 
 

Joyful laughter fills Asha's head.   It is indeed!,   the spirit rejoices,   I shall sing about it for centuries to come, once I find the right words! What did I tell you, you are an excellent dancer. Splendid!...   Paimon babbles on endlessly.
Seharvepernfan
Kanok immediately drops the man to the ground and rolls him around, patting out the fires as best he can.  As soon as most of them are down to cinders, he retrieves his wand and heals the man immediately.

 
 Spoiler 
That's probably two rounds of actions right there.

 Cure Light Wounds:   (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Kanok extinguishes the flames, but the burned and torn body does not respond to the healing and the man who's name they never found out lies lifeless on the ground. Only the holy symbol around his neck remains untouched by both the flames and claws.

 
 Spoiler 
You are currently out of combat, so you can act freely.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok stands and draws his club, staring off to the west.  An angry frown clouds his face and he begins running in that direction.

 "Fang, come!" 
 
 Spoiler 
 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
 
CWater
Fang follows the command and comes run alongside Kanok. The scenery is still, besides the fires burning between the rocks, there is no movement in sight.

 
 Spoiler 
Make a Spot check, please.
And a new Listen.

Other's can make these too, if they move in/pay attention to the same direction.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok slides to a stop, immediately incanting the words to a spell.  For a brief moment, there is a scent of wet earth among the charred, smoking rocks.  He raises his left arm as if holding a shield, and gruffly calls to his faithful hound, while walking straight ahead at where he saw the shimmer,  "Fang, attack!" , hoping the animal can find their quarry with it's powerful sense of smell.

 
 Spoiler 
Casts shillelagh on club, activates force shield, moves 40ft straight ahead through where he saw whatever it was.  At the end of the movement he will be facing back towards Fang.  The idea is to either get closer and manage to find whatever it is, or even bump into it, or draw an attack, or at the very least be flanking it with Fang in the near future.

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 4 ] 
 
Rathgar
Seeing that all the fire beasts were downed, Tuntematon ran around and said prayers of healing over the most severely hurt.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Minor Vigor on the 3 most wounded, healing 14 HP total.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok slides to a stop, immediately incanting the words to a spell.  For a brief moment, there is a scent of wet earth among the charred, smoking rocks.  He raises his left arm as if holding a shield, and gruffly calls to his faithful hound, while walking straight ahead at where he saw the shimmer,  "Fang, attack!" , hoping the animal can find their quarry with it's powerful sense of smell.

 
 Spoiler 
Casts shillelagh on club, activates force shield, moves 40ft straight ahead through where he saw whatever it was.  At the end of the movement he will be facing back towards Fang.  The idea is to either get closer and manage to find whatever it is, or even bump into it, or draw an attack, or at the very least be flanking it with Fang in the near future.

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 
 
 
 

Fang sniffs the ground, but doesn't move. Taesha runs after Kanok.  "Did you find something?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 
Listen:  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing that all the fire beasts were downed, Tuntematon ran around and said prayers of healing over the most severely hurt.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Minor Vigor on the 3 most wounded, healing 14 HP total.
 
 
 

The centaur casts the curative spells on Asha, Kanok and Eldien, and their wounds start to slowly knit together.

 
 Spoiler 
The others didn't take damage. After this healing has finished, Asha will be at 25/42, Kanok at 43/47 and Eldien at full HP.
 Currently  they are
Asha: 12/42
Kanok:  30/47
Eldien: 8/14
 
Athedia
Asha touched her belt, allowing the healing wave to knit her wounds shut.  She was still staring down at the dead man. "He died.  We did all that and he still died.  He never even got to wake up."   Angrily she went off after Kanok,  "Paimon and I will follow your lead.  Whoever or whatever sent these things needs to be stopped." 
 
 Spoiler 
Healing 1 charge left:  (2d8)[ 6 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha touched her belt, allowing the healing wave to knit her wounds shut.  She was still staring down at the dead man. "He died.  We did all that and he still died.  He never even got to wake up."   Angrily she went off after Kanok,  "Paimon and I will follow your lead.  Whoever or whatever sent these things needs to be stopped." 
 
 Spoiler 
Healing 1 charge left:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 
 
 

 "I heard shouting earlier, so it's probably nearby. Let's go kill it,"  Lily said, listening impatiently for any further noises.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 


Listen:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok nods,  "...something.  Fang! Attack!"  He points in the general direction that he saw the...whatever it was.   "Something right there.  Spread out; we cannot see it, but it is here."   He stands, club held ready with both hands.

 
 Spoiler 

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 

Deactivating the shield.

Readying a charging rhino overrun at anything that Fang seems to find.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok nods,  "...something.  Fang! Attack!"  He points in the general direction that he saw the...whatever it was.   "Something right there.  Spread out; we cannot see it, but it is here."   He stands, club held ready with both hands.

 
 Spoiler 

 Handle Animal:   (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 

Deactivating the shield.

Readying a charging rhino overrun at anything that Fang seems to find.
 
 
 

Asha was getting tired of the dog just standing there with its head tilted as it failed to understand.   "Fang. Attack!"  She pointed in the general direction Kanok had been trying to get him to go.
 
 Spoiler: Handle Animal 
HA:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
 
CWater
After much prodding, Fang finally charges forward and lunges to to bite something invisible to the others.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
There is a sharp cry of pain and the sound of hurried footsteps. Fang tries to bite the air again, facing north.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 5 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note that the position coordinates have changed, since I added more columns.
 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 There is a sharp cry of pain and the sound of hurried footsteps. Fang tries to bite the air again, facing north.

 
 Spoiler: AoO 
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Note that the position coordinates have changed, since I added more columns.
 
 
 
 

Asha gave Kanok a look.   "Third time blessed."   Then she jogged of after the snapping dog.

 
 Spoiler 
I like the kitty, but a map would be helpful :P

And I typed in red again by mistake.
 
Etherion
Aidan moves towards the scuffle.
 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to AF 14
 
CWater
Fang chases after the invisible enemy towards a rock formation and tries to catch it again.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+1)[ 21 ]  VS  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
? is the square Fang attacked. The rock formation in front is high enough that one couldn't see even a visible target behind it.
 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily breaks into a run, trying to see what, if anything, Fang had caught.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Run to AC7
 
Seharvepernfan
Seeing Fang run behind the rocks and hearing him growl and snarl in his telltale "tearing-something-apart" manner, Kanok bolts in that direction to do some tearing himself.

 
 Spoiler 
Deleted my earlier post.

I'm assuming Kanok can see Fang from his starting point?  They are behind rocks, dunno how tall.

Move 40ft towards AA6, sudden leap the last 10ft (running, so I don't believe I can fail that check).
Rage, then Attack Z7 space.

 Concealment:   (1d2)[ 1 ] , 1 misses

 Shillelagh:   (1d20+14)[ 25 ]  (flanking)
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 
if crit
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+14)[ 17 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 13 ] 

AC is 15
 
Athedia
Asha followed after Kanok, ready to put holes in whoever had been sending those creatures at them.
CWater
Kanok jumps over the rock and swings his club towards the space where he thinks the invisible enemy is, but it doesn't connect with anything.

 
 Spoiler: Terrain info 
Squares AA8 and Z8 are 4 ft. high. Square Z9 is 7 ft. high. Jumping over AA8 is DC 16, but we can handwave the check this round as Kanok could have also ran around it.
 


Asha moves closer as well with Taesha right behind her. Lily, Stiira and Tuntematon run to catch up with them as well.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha, Taesha and Tuntematon did not mechanically speaking run, if that matters.

Something:  (1d20+6)[ 9 ] 
 
CWater
Everyone can hear hurried footsteps that head to the west. Fang snarls and lunges at their source as it passes him and leaps to continue the chase.

 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
AoO
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 6 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+1)[ 11 ]  VS  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 

Since you are basically following Fang's lead, I've taken the liberty to do his actions to speed things up. Let me know if you'd like to handle this differently.
Attack
Bite:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+3)[ 9 ] 
Trip:  (1d20+1)[ 19 ]  VS  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 

The dog bites its target savagely and another shriek pierces the air. However, he doesn't seem to be able to drag the enemy out of balance.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
? is the square Fang attacked.
The dark grey squares are larger rocks that require a Climb check to move into (DC varies).
Red squares have a 'normal' stationary fire. You can move through them without harm, but they have x2 movement cost or require a DC 7 Jump check to avoid burns. They don't prevent a charge.
 
 
Seharvepernfan
Grinning fiercely at the blood coating Fang's mouth and the yelp of pain, Kanok continues his assault on the unseen foe, surging ahead of Fang and plowing through where he thinks his enemy will be.

 
 Spoiler 
Move to S7 through T7.
He will be overrunning our enemy.  If the enemy lets him through, he gets to S7 and attacks with a flank from Fang.  If the enemy blocks, an overrun is rolled.  Either way, it gets an AoO.

 Overrun:   (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 Concealment:   (1d2)[ 2 ] , 1 misses
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+14)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 17 ] 
if crit
 Shillelagh:   (1d20+14)[ 21 ] 
 Damage:   (2d6+7)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
This time Kanok feels his weapon hit and he hears a grunt and the sound of someone gasping for breath.

 
 Spoiler 
Nothing tries to block or attack him as he moves.
 
Rathgar
Seeing that they may have found where the invisible assailant is, Tuntematon ran over and tossed his Glitterstone at him, so that his form may become known.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Seeing that they may have found where the invisible assailant is, Tuntematon ran over and tossed his Glitterstone at him, so that his form may become known. 
 

 
 Spoiler 
I'm assuming you are targeting the square, since the enemy is invisible. When throwing splash weapons at a specific area on the ground, you usually need to make an attack roll against AC 5. If you miss, you randomly hit a square next to the intended target. As Glitterstone explodes to a cloud of 10 ft. radius though, it makes no difference here. The effect lasts for  3 rounds .
 


The stone explodes to a cloud of glittering dust, covering everything and everyone around it in small glimmering shards. For Kanok and Fang this is only the cause of an annoying sneeze, but their invisible friend is for the moment not so undetectable anymore.
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily moved closer to the kerfluffle, trying her best not to shoot Fang as she aimed at the glittering figure.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 


Move: To X7

Attack:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ]  (-2 composite bow, -4 into melee, -2 sickened until end of combat)

Damage:  (1d8+4)[ 5 ] 
 
CWater
Still tired from the frenzy, Lily's arrow flies past the target. Stiira stays back with her, but everyone else run closer to surround the enemy.

The shape covered in glimmer charges past Asha and Kanok, persistently trying to get away from the party.  "Get away from me!",  demands an angry shout,  "Or by the gods, you'll regret it! You and your wild beast will all burn, until nothing remains!!"  The voice is gruff, but can still be recognised as slightly feminine.

 
 Spoiler: Ignore 

 
 Spoiler 
Something:  (4d8+12)[ 27 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
Athedia
AOO:
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
CWater
Asha stabs with precision and the enemy yelps and staggers in pain, completely unable to avoid the second blow. Kanok brings down his club with heavy force and the figure falls on the ground unconscious.

 
 Spoiler 
Combat over. Nice AoOs. :J

The glittering shards fade soon, and the person is still invisible, but it's not hard to keep tabs on someone who is unconscious. Might easily step on them by mistake though.
 
Athedia
Asha let the bone spur slide back into her hand, the skin closing up after it.  She spat on the ground in the general area of the person they had brought down.  "Who attacks an unconscious man?"   She pulled the long troll gut rope out of her pack and kicked around trying to find the invisible person.   "Anyone here any good at tying up invisible people?" 

She still felt the rush of adrenaline from the fight and was still jittery.    Paimon, we work well together.  Thank you.  
Seharvepernfan
Kanok visibly calms down, though he is still breathing heavily,  "No need."   With no further warning, he finds the mystery caster's hands and breaks the fingers with his club.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok visibly calms down, though he is still breathing heavily,  "No need."   With no further warning, he finds the mystery caster's hands and breaks the fingers with his club. 
 

Lily nodded grimy at the gut-wrenching crack.  "We should bind its mouth as well. Magic-users can be slippery things." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok visibly calms down, though he is still breathing heavily,  "No need."   With no further warning, he finds the mystery caster's hands and breaks the fingers with his club. 
 

Asha jumped at the sound, the bone spur slicing through her skin again in her shock.   "You didn't need... why would you do that?"  It took some effort but she managed to will the sharp bone back under her skin.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok visibly calms down, though he is still breathing heavily,  "No need."   With no further warning, he finds the mystery caster's hands and breaks the fingers with his club. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha jumped at the sound, the bone spur slicing through her skin again in her shock.   "You didn't need... why would you do that?"  It took some effort but she managed to will the sharp bone back under her skin. 
 

 "Better safe than sorry",  Taesha says sheathing her claws,  "We know nothing of this one. Except that she fights like a coward, sending those fire things to do the work, while she hid out of sight." 

 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily nodded grimy at the gut-wrenching crack.  "We should bind its mouth as well. Magic-users can be slippery things."  
 

Stiira jumps when she hears the bones break, and backs slowly away from the party, nervously rubbing her own fingers.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Better safe than sorry",  Taesha says sheathing her claws,  "We know nothing of this one. Except that she fights like a coward, sending those fire things to do the work, while she hid out of sight." 



Stiira jumps when she hears the bones break, and backs slowly away from the party, nervously rubbing her own fingers. 
 

 "And that is why I was okay stabbing her.  But she is unconscious! And StiirA and Eldien stay back and let us fight, does that make them cowards. If we were defeated should they break her fingers?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok lays his club on the caster so that their location is obvious, then gets up to go retrieve his spear and wand,  "If we are defeated, they will break more than our fingers.  If they are to live, they will be healed." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "And that is why I was okay stabbing her.  But she is unconscious! And StiirA and Eldien stay back and let us fight, does that make them cowards. If we were defeated should they break her fingers?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok lays his club on the caster so that their location is obvious, then gets up to go retrieve his spear and wand,  "If we are defeated, they will break more than our fingers.  If they are to live, they will be healed."  
 

Lily cocked her head to one side.  "It forfeited its right to decent conduct when it killed an unconscious man. Such a creature deserves no pity. Still... we shouldn't be cruel."   She nodded at Asha.  "Healing it later would be good." 

Behind her back, her fingers clenched and unclenched spasmodically, and she felt a vague sense of horror at the idea of being unable to hold a bow ever again.
CWater
Taesha shrugs.  "I never said I really liked Stiira's magics. Eldien... she can't help how she is, I suppose."  She throws a glance back at the elf who is slowly limping towards them to catch up with the party.
CWater
After some time the spell that made the enemy invisible ends and a human woman fades to view. She is clad in white and brown furs, travel and use have left their mark on them. Her cloak is made of a wolf's pelt and it is covered in hundreds of small animal teeth that have been sewn to it. On a string around her neck, the woman wears a similar wooden symbol as  the man they found in the desert , and also another amulet with mystical inscriptions. The axe she was carrying on her belt is finely made and has the same symbols carved on to it.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After some time the spell that made the enemy invisible ends and a human woman fades to view. She is clad in white and brown furs, travel and use have left their mark on them. Her cloak is made of a wolf's pelt and it is covered in hundreds of small animal teeth that have been sewn to it. On a string around her neck, the woman wears a similar wooden symbol as  the man they found in the desert , and also another amulet with mystical inscriptions. The axe she was carrying on her belt is finely made and has the same symbols carved on to it. 
 

Asha knelt down next to the woman, examining the amulet.  She pulled the axe out of the belt and chunked it a few feet away, out of the woman's reach when she awoke.   "And do you think she could tell us anything while screaming in pain?" 
Seharvepernfan
Returning with his dropped items, Kanok notices the now visible witch.  He moves up to inspect her coat of fangs,  "Her words will come.  Stiira, Tunta, what do you make of these?"   He indicates the two amulets, assuming the casters might have some insight into their respective trades.

 
 Spoiler 
 Nature (to determine what kinds of animal teeth these are):   (1d20+10)[ 21 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Kanok 
They are all teeth of predators. Most are probably wolf's teeth, but some are also from wolverines, bears and saber-toothed tigers.
 

 "What strange things has Alnin led to us this time?",  Tuntematon wonders, as he steps closer. Saying a small prayer, the favoured soul invokes his ability to see auras of magic.  "Quite a few of the things are magical",  he kneels down to get a better look,  "The axe, cloak and necklace at least. Oh, the boots as well. And something on her hand..."  The centaur carefully picks up one of the mutilated limbs, taking care not to damage it further.  "Ah, those 'ring' ornaments. It will probably take me a while to figure out what all of them do, even if Stiira helps me."  The witch peeks warily from behind a group of rocks.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Since Rathgar told us he cannot post regularly at the moment, I'll play Tuntematon if needed.

It is starting to get late, do you want to rest here? Wouldn't need to set up a camp fire.😏
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok removes each of the mentioned items, pilling them near Stiira and coaxing the little witch out of hiding.  He can't imagine doing something like that to her.
 "We will camp here; see what you can learn before sleep.  It may aid us." 

He goes to retrieve the priest's body, bringing him near one of the fires where the group is sitting.

 
 Spoiler 

He will take a watch.  Whoever is on watch should sit on our mangled guest, so she can't make a break for it.

Kanok's new sheet is in my sig.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok removes each of the mentioned items, pilling them near Stiira and coaxing the little witch out of hiding.  He can't imagine doing something like that to her.
 "We will camp here; see what you can learn before sleep.  It may aid us." 

He goes to retrieve the priest's body, bringing him near one of the fires where the group is sitting.

 
 Spoiler 

He will take a watch.  Whoever is on watch should sit on our mangled guest, so she can't make a break for it.

Kanok's new sheet is in my sig.
 
 
 

Lily promptly sat down, using her finger to draw a circle in the dirt or pebbles.  "Do we need a fire? There seems to be plenty of it around."
 
She dug around in her bag for a moment before producing a handful of marbles, looking thoughtful for a moment, and beginning play. The soft clicking of clay against clay soon provided a soothing background noise, and Lily could feel her tension and uncertainty drain away- although she studiously avoided looking at the prisoner, especially those mangled fingers.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok removes each of the mentioned items, pilling them near Stiira and coaxing the little witch out of hiding.  He can't imagine doing something like that to her.
 "We will camp here; see what you can learn before sleep.  It may aid us." 

He goes to retrieve the priest's body, bringing him near one of the fires where the group is sitting.   
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily promptly sat down, using her finger to draw a circle in the dirt or pebbles.  "Do we need a fire? There seems to be plenty of it around."
 
She dug around in her bag for a moment before producing a handful of marbles, looking thoughtful for a moment, and beginning play. The soft clicking of clay against clay soon provided a soothing background noise, and Lily could feel her tension and uncertainty drain away- although she studiously avoided looking at the prisoner, especially those mangled fingers. 
 

Asha lifted the woman's head into her lap.  In the morning she would heal those fingers, not matter what Kanok said.  She pulled out her bedroll and awkwardly draped it over the woman in replacement for the cloak.  Pulling out her everlasting rations she nibbled at the food that was produced, not very hungry.  The clicking of the strange halflings game brought her out of her gloom.   "What are you playing?" 
CWater
Taesha nods to Kanok in agreement, then kneels by one of the larger fires to inspect if it is hot enough to warm food on. She glances at Asha when she cares for their new captive.  "You're being too nice to her. Someone like that doesn't deserve friendly treatment." 

Tuntematon picks also the woman's pouch from her belt, then sits down to examine the items. After a while, Stiira creeps closer to help him.

When Eldien reaches the party, she goes to sit next to Asha. Looking curiously at the new face.  "Another human on these mountains? The times are strange." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Taesha nods to Kanok in agreement, then kneels by one of the larger fires to inspect if it is hot enough to warm food on. She glances at Asha when she cares for their new captive.  "You're being too nice to her. Someone like that doesn't deserve friendly treatment." 

Tuntematon picks also the woman's pouch from her belt, then sits down to examine the items. After a while, Stiira creeps closer to help him.

When Eldien reaches the party, she goes to sit next to Asha. Looking curiously at the new face.  "Another human on these mountains? The times are strange."  
 

Asha glared at Taesha.  "People are rarely irredeemable. She must have had a reason." 

As Eldien approached, Asha dusted off the ground next to her.   "Have you seen these symbols before?  It may be important. " 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha glared at Taesha.  "People are rarely irredeemable. She must have had a reason." 

As Eldien approached, Asha dusted off the ground next to her.   "Have you seen these symbols before?  It may be important. "  
 

The elf takes a closer look, then shakes her head.  "Sorry, they mean nothing to me. Such knowledge is for the sages, I was never one."  She looks apologetic.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha lifted the woman's head into her lap.  In the morning she would heal those fingers, not matter what Kanok said.  She pulled out her bedroll and awkwardly draped it over the woman in replacement for the cloak.  Pulling out her everlasting rations she nibbled at the food that was produced, not very hungry.  The clicking of the strange halflings game brought her out of her gloom.   "What are you playing?"  
 

Lily walked nearer to Asha, interlocking her fingers with the mummified hand around her neck.  "It's a game played by the young in my tribe."  The clicking of the marbles continued uninterrupted as she sat down, a respectful distance from Asha.  "It's calming in times of trouble." 
 
 Spoiler: Marbles 

To be clear, Lily is using the Mage Hand to continue playing marbles while talking with Asha, since moving the setup is a hassle.

Also, finally found a use for all of those marbles. Well... some of them.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The elf takes a closer look, then shakes her head.  "Sorry, they mean nothing to me. Such knowledge is for the sages, I was never one."  She looks apologetic. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily walked nearer to Asha, interlocking her fingers with the mummified hand around her neck.  "It's a game played by the young in my tribe."  The clicking of the marbles continued uninterrupted as she sat down, a respectful distance from Asha.  "It's calming in times of trouble." 
 
 Spoiler: Marbles 

To be clear, Lily is using the Mage Hand to continue playing marbles while talking with Asha, since moving the setup is a hassle.

Also, finally found a use for all of those marbles. Well... some of them.
 
 
 

Asha put at hand on Eldien's, squeezing it.   "I guess we have to ask her when she wakes up then."   As Lily walked over Asha couldn't stop the shudder that coursed through her body, her grip on Eldien's hand tightening.   "Put that...thing away." 
CWater
 "I've never seen a trinket like that",  Taesha says, warming some food by the fire,  "I'm surprised it doesn't smell."  She pokes a piece of meat with her fingertip,  "We don't have much left. Just barely enough for tomorrow, is my guess." 

The darkness falls some hours later and it is a cloudy night, leaving the flames around them as the only source of light. And they are silent fires, and there are not many other sounds on this barren mountain either, especially at night. Just some rare cries of birds and the occasional howling of the wind. Some time past sunset, the wanderers notice a new light appear, higher up on the mountainside than any of the others. First they may be wary of it, they've had their share of hostile fire creatures by know, but after a while it becomes clear that this light comes from an unmoving source.

Tuntematon and Stiira study the items for the whole evening. They sit in peace for most of the time, though once Stiira lets out a loud shriek as she suddenly grows long sharp teeth for a moment while wearong the cloak with fangs. The effect ends quickly, but she still throws the cloth away quickly. When they are finished, they present their findings to the others.  "Many magical items, and strong too. I've never seen- I mean, it is... strange for one to carry so many",  Stiira comments.

 
 Spoiler 
A list of items can be found in the OOC thread.
 
CWater
The party divides the items, eat and put up their shelter. Most of them are preparing to lie down to rest, when their captive suddenly regains consciousness. She throws a few quick glances around and jerks away from Asha, trying to push her, but ends up twisting her own fingers worse. Seeing them she lets out a bloodcurling scream that makes Stiira to jump up in her bedroll and tries to clutch her hand with the other.
Rathgar
 "It seems that the invisible woman is awake."   The centaur trotted over to the new captive.   "Tell us what you were trying to do, and be quick about it.  We don't really have enough food to keep ourselves fed, let alone you.  What is going on here, and why do you have a symbol of the Lady of Fortune?" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok whirls to his feet, his spear tip appearing at the screaming woman's neck seemingly out of nowhere.  His face is stony, but his eyes are furious.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok whirls to his feet, his spear tip appearing at the screaming woman's neck seemingly out of nowhere.  His face is stony, but his eyes are furious. 
 

Asha summoned forth the bone spur knocking back the spear.   "You already did your damage.  You crippled her, and now you threaten.  I will NOT let you hurt her."   Keeping the spur pointed at Kanok, she turned to the woman.   "I will heal you tomorrow when power returns.  For now I apologize for the crude treatment, I was under the impression we tied up prisoners, not mutilated them.  What might help is if you explained who that man was, why he was unconscious when we found him and unresponsive and why you tried to kill him and us?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy:  (1d20+10)[ 24 ] 

Link for Asha:  http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=425859 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok whirls to his feet, his spear tip appearing at the screaming woman's neck seemingly out of nowhere.  His face is stony, but his eyes are furious. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha summoned forth the bone spur knocking back the spear.   "You already did your damage.  You crippled her, and now you threaten.  I will NOT let you hurt her."   Keeping the spur pointed at Kanok, she turned to the woman.   "I will heal you tomorrow when power returns.  For now I apologize for the crude treatment, I was under the impression we tied up prisoners, not mutilated them.  What might help is if you explained who that man was, why he was unconscious when we found him and unresponsive and why you tried to kill him and us?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy: [roll0]

Link for Asha:  http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=425859 
 
 
 

 "You harpy litter!",  the woman curses,  "Perytons and crawlers take you all!  She creeps away from them, though doesn't attempt to get up.  "The heretic's luck had ran out! It was time for him to die! What's it to you?!" 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "It seems that the invisible woman is awake."   The centaur trotted over to the new captive.   "Tell us what you were trying to do, and be quick about it.  We don't really have enough food to keep ourselves fed, let alone you.  What is going on here, and why do you have a symbol of the Lady of Fortune?"  
 

It's only now that the woman notices her necklace missing when she tries to instinctively grab it.  "You... you have taken Her symbol! Give it back!",  she shouts and tries to shake her fist, but yelps in pain as the fingers won't bend.  "I  serve  the Goddess of Luck and Destiny, that is why I have it! Why I was given it! I need it!!" 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok cuffs her on the head with the end of his spear,  "We aren't giving you anything.  Why did you attack the man?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You harpy litter!",  the woman curses,  "Perytons and crawlers take you all!  She creeps away from them, though doesn't attempt to get up.  "The heretic's luck had ran out! It was time for him to die! What's it to you?!" 

It's only now that the woman notices her necklace missing when she tries to instinctively grab it.  "You... you have taken Her symbol! Give it back!",  she shouts and tries to shake her fist, but yelps in pain as the fingers won't bend.  "I  serve  the Goddess of Luck and Destiny, that is why I have it! Why I was given it! I need it!!"  
 

Asha tilted her head.  "So many insults.  It matters to us because we found a dying man in the desert.  Because we had no idea why he would be out there.  It may surprise you, but we are not local.  My tribe is many many nights journey from this place." 

 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok cuffs her on the head with the end of his spear,  "We aren't giving you anything.  Why did you attack the man?"  
 

As the spear thunked on the womens head, Asha grabbed it, actual anger replacing the concern on her face.  She spat her words out, knuckles whitening as she tightened her grip.  "Do you not understand the meaning of prisoner.  You didn't beat the halfling for information, though he allied with the Betrayer and ran many times.  Violence might make your kind talk, but for the rest of us respond better to care." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok cuffs her on the head with the end of his spear,  "We aren't giving you anything.  Why did you attack the man?"  
 

Lily looked at Kanok with faint betrayal in her eyes.  "Don't beat prisoners,"  She hesitated, remembering her support  of the finger-smashing, and clenched her fists again.  "No more than necessary to stop them from killing us all with magic."  She moved closer to Asha without really intending to.  "I think the pointy one is right... this time."  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok cuffs her on the head with the end of his spear,  "We aren't giving you anything.  Why did you attack the man?"  
 

The woman grunts and covers her head, cursing under her breath.  "The high priestess declared him a heretic, but the coward ran before he could be punished. I was to hunt him down and make sure the Goddess' will was carried out."  There is stern dedication in her words.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha tilted her head.  "So many insults.  It matters to us because we found a dying man in the desert.  Because we had no idea why he would be out there.  It may surprise you, but we are not local.  My tribe is many many nights journey from this place."  
 

 "Neither are we, but this is where the heretic ran. But even more so, why would you care? Our matters are no concern of yours!",  she removes her hands from over her head and looks up with a defiant expression on her face.  "He was dying, yes surely. I caught up with him once, though he escaped to the desert. But I thought it didn't matter anymore",  her mouth twists to a cruel grin,  "I had cursed him, you see. With a curse that can spread, no less. Maybe you have it now, if so, be it your punishment for interfering with the Lady's will." 

 As the spear thunked on the womens head, Asha grabbed it, actual anger replacing the concern on her face.  She spat her words out, knuckles whitening as she tightened her grip.  "Do you not understand the meaning of prisoner.  You didn't beat the halfling for information, though he allied with the Betrayer and ran many times.  Violence might make your kind talk, but for the rest of us respond better to care."  


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily looked at Kanok with faint betrayal in her eyes.  "Don't beat prisoners,"  She hesitated, remembering her support  of the finger-smashing, and clenched her fists again.  "No more than necessary to stop them from killing us all with magic."  She moved closer to Asha without really intending to.  "I think the pointy one is right... this time."   
 

Taesha makes no comment on the matter, just circles around the prisoner to stand behind her. The claws on her hands are out, but probably only to look more threatening.
Rathgar
 "The slaughter of heretics?  That doesn't sound quite like the Lady of Luck as she had been revealed unto me.  Tell me, what did he do, and what is this curse you speak of?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "The slaughter of heretics?  That doesn't sound quite like the Lady of Luck as she had been revealed unto me.  Tell me, what did he do, and what is this curse you speak of?"  
 

 "He opposed the will of the Lady as it had been revealed to the high priestess, such heresy must be severely punished. I can't understand such treachery, I would suffer and die rather than betray Her!"  She spits out the last words glaring at the ground as if it was a heretic as well.  "The curse though...",  she snorts,  "It's a fitting end for a lost soul. One carrying it will slowly lose all sense, until they can't tell what's real." 
Etherion
 
 Spoiler: undefined 
Apologies for my absence, a brief explanation is in OOC, and I should be able to post more regularly.
 


At the prisoner's last remark, Aidan looks up.

 Hmph. It sounds more like he betrayed your priestess. 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok smacks Asha's hand from his spear, then goes to retrieve the mans body.  Dragging it back, he lifts and heaves it onto the evil bitch.   "If there is a curse, you had better tell us how to remove it." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  
 Spoiler: undefined 
Apologies for my absence, a brief explanation is in OOC, and I should be able to post more regularly.
 


At the prisoner's last remark, Aidan looks up.

 Hmph. It sounds more like he betrayed your priestess.  
 

The woman blinks and stares at him with a blank expression.  "Those would be the same thing. High priestess Almara speaks the will of the Goddess. That is why she is the high priestess."  She says this as if it were an obvious fact.


 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok smacks Asha's hand from his spear, then goes to retrieve the mans body.  Dragging it back, he lifts and heaves it onto the evil bitch.   "If there is a curse, you had better tell us how to remove it."  
 

The priestess hisses and rolls away from the corpse.  "It is unclean",  she complains,  "keep it away!"  Taesha walks closer and kneels down next to the captive, though she keeps her claws visible.  "Then talk. What curse? How do we get rid of it? Asha here",  she nods towards the binder,  "has offered to heal at least some of that damage. Speak, and perhaps the less merciful of us won't oppose it." 

She is rewarded with another angry glare and for a moment it looks almost like the woman would spit on Taesha's words, but then she relents, though not without cursing under her breath.  "Fine. My Lady Virnil has not ordered your demise, that what I know of. Your running into him",  she throws a glance at the dead body,  "was perhaps not important." 
 
 Spoiler 
Giving you guys a chance to say something, if you want.
 
Etherion
At the woman's reply, Aidan shakes his head and makes no further comment.
CWater
The priestess snorts, but keeps talking.  "The curse will show in one or two days. If there's no trace of it by then, you don't have it. If you do, you'll start to lose your sense of reality and eventually might lose consciousness as well. Oh, and you'll start cackling madly. It doesn't  kill  by itself",  she smirks darkly,  "but someone alone and helpless in the wild... would be soon dead anyway. How long it lasts",  she shrugs,  "That varies." 
CWater
After they are finished with their interrogation the party retires for the day. The priestess continues to glare at them while they tie her feet, but she makes no obvious attempt at escaping. She doesn't sleep though and occasionally stares intently at those keeping guard during the night, but she doesn't attempt to talk to them either.

The morning comes eventually, just like any other morning up to now. The travellers pack up the camp and prepare for another day travel up the mountain.  "What do we do with her?",  Taesha asks, throwing a glance at the sulky prisoner.

 
 Spoiler 
Up to a new day! Who does Asha bind today, and are there changes to Kanok's spells?
I would also need a Fortitude save from Kanok, Asha and Tuntematon, please.

Oh, and did Asha heal the captive yesterday?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After they are finished with their interrogation the party retires for the day. The priestess continues to glare at them while they tie her feet, but she makes no obvious attempt at escaping. She doesn't sleep though and occasionally stares intently at those keeping guard during the night, but she doesn't attempt to talk to them either.

The morning comes eventually, just like any other morning up to now. The travellers pack up the camp and prepare for another day travel up the mountain.  "What do we do with her?",  Taesha asks, throwing a glance at the sulky prisoner.

 
 Spoiler 
Up to a new day! Who does Asha bind today, and are there changes to Kanok's spells?
I would also need a Fortitude save from Kanok, Asha and Tuntematon, please.

Oh, and did Asha heal the captive yesterday?
 
 
 

Asha slept near the captive, wary of Kanok returning.  She awoke a little faster, fresher than before.  A quick touch of the belt and a charge was spent on healing the woman. As the others packed up camp she went to the behind a rock and started drawing out the sign for  Andras .  If they had a prisoner again, this would allow them to carry her or Eldien without resorting to the antics of before.

 
 Spoiler 
Asha is healing her today (1 charge) so that her fingers are no longer broken.   (2d8)[ 4 ]  &lt;- Belt charge (2/3)

Binder check:  (1d20+7)[ 18 ]  VS 22 Okay, I guess she is getting the wracking cough... fun fun fun.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 After they are finished with their interrogation the party retires for the day. The priestess continues to glare at them while they tie her feet, but she makes no obvious attempt at escaping. She doesn't sleep though and occasionally stares intently at those keeping guard during the night, but she doesn't attempt to talk to them either.

The morning comes eventually, just like any other morning up to now. The travellers pack up the camp and prepare for another day travel up the mountain.  "What do we do with her?",  Taesha asks, throwing a glance at the sulky prisoner.

 
 Spoiler 
Up to a new day! Who does Asha bind today, and are there changes to Kanok's spells?
I would also need a Fortitude save from Kanok, Asha and Tuntematon, please.

Oh, and did Asha heal the captive yesterday?
 
 
 



Lily watched Asha go behind the rock warily, but moved closer to the prisoner.  "Don't turn me into a lizard,"  she asked, much in the way one would ask a wolf not to eat one for dinner.

After a long pause, Lily grasped the fingers of the mummified hand around her neck and began stacking rocks into small towers.
 "So.... this curse. How do we know that  you  don't carry it as well? Would you even know if you had it?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha slept near the captive, wary of Kanok returning.  She awoke a little faster, fresher than before.  A quick touch of the belt and a charge was spent on healing the woman. 
 

The priestess eyes Asha suspiciously as if expecting a trick. While the charge doesn't completely cure the damage done, it does seem to make her hands less painful, judging by her expressions.


 As the others packed up camp she went to the behind a rock and started drawing out the sign for  Andras .  If they had a prisoner again, this would allow them to carry her or Eldien without resorting to the antics of before. 

This time Andras appears before her riding a overgrown mountain goat. His owl face shows no expression when his gaze drifts roughly in Asha's direction.  "You summoned me." 

  
 Spoiler 
Asha is healing her today (1 charge) so that her fingers are no longer broken.  [roll0] &lt;- Belt charge (2/3)

Binder check: [roll1] VS 22 Okay, I guess she is getting  the wracking cough ... fun fun fun.
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
? Isn't Andras sign the wings and influence indifference?
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily watched Asha go behind the rock warily, but moved closer to the prisoner.  "Don't turn me into a lizard,"  she asked, much in the way one would ask a wolf not to eat one for dinner.

After a long pause, Lily grasped the fingers of the mummified hand around her neck and began stacking rocks into small towers.
 "So.... this curse. How do we know that  you  don't carry it as well? Would you even know if you had it?"  
 

The captive looks at Lily, clearly surprised at the thought.  "That could not be",  she says slowly,  "My Lady Virnil protects me, she would not allow her servant to be infected." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The priestess eyes Asha suspiciously as if expecting a trick. While the charge doesn't completely cure the damage done, it does seem to make her hands less painful, judging by her expressions.


This time Andras appears before her riding a overgrown mountain goat. His owl face shows no expression when his gaze drifts roughly in Asha's direction.  "You summoned me." 
 
 Spoiler 
? Isn't Andras sign the wings and influence indifference?
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
You're right.  I was looking at two vestiges and got them mixed up.  He is the wings.
 

 "I did.  Could we bind for today?  Standard agreement." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
You're right.  I was looking at two vestiges and got them mixed up.  He is the wings.
 

 "I did.  Could we bind for today?  Standard agreement."  
 

Andras looks at her with disinterest.  "Why should I? You will only demand me to take part in some pointless conflict I am sure. They all do." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Andras looks at her with disinterest.  "Why should I? You will only demand me to take part in some pointless conflict I am sure. They all do."  
 

 "Actually, I need your horse.  I hope to avoid conflict, it just creates more trouble for all of us." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Actually, I need your horse.  I hope to avoid conflict, it just creates more trouble for all of us."  
 

 "Is that so?"  Large yellow eyes glare at her unblinking.  "Alright. You will have my horse. But also my presence and some influence. Those are my terms." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Is that so?"  Large yellow eyes glare at her unblinking.  "Alright. You will have my horse. But also my presence, remember that."  
 

 "I understand."   Asha closed her eyes, bracing for the wings to appear on her back.
Rathgar
After having done a morning supplication to Anlin, the prophet began to speak of the new prisoner.   "I'm not entirely sure that this priestess is in fact a priestess of who she says, even if she thinks she is.  If she truly is favored by that goddess, than I'm sure the goddess of fortune will bring something by to save her.  I say we just leave her here, since we don't really have enough food to feed ourselves." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 After having done a morning supplication to Anlin, the prophet began to speak of the new prisoner.   "I'm not entirely sure that this priestess is in fact a priestess of who she says, even if she thinks she is.  If she truly is favored by that goddess, than I'm sure the goddess of fortune will bring something by to save her.  I say we just leave her here, since we don't really have enough food to feed ourselves."  
 

Asha returned, bending over the prisoner. "I have her ring now.  I won't need food in a few days.  Until then I will share my meals with her." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I understand."   Asha closed her eyes, bracing for the wings to appear on her back. 
 

Andras disappears from sight and Asha senses the presence of his soul, the grubby grey wings burst out just like she expected. Unlike Paimon or Ronove, Andras speaks hardly a word to her, but she can feel the aura of cold indifference emanating from him.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 After having done a morning supplication to Anlin, the prophet began to speak of the new prisoner.   "I'm not entirely sure that this priestess is in fact a priestess of who she says, even if she thinks she is.  If she truly is favored by that goddess, than I'm sure the goddess of fortune will bring something by to save her.  I say we just leave her here, since we don't really have enough food to feed ourselves."  
 

 "Hmm",  Taesha glares at the priestess suspicously and crosses her arms.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha returned, bending over the prisoner. "I have her ring now.  I won't need food in a few days.  Until then I will share my meals with her."  
 

Asha helps the woman to her feet.  "Where are you taking me?",  she demands to know.

 
 Spoiler 
So, do the rest have opinions about bringing her along or not?
 
CWater
Without a reply, the party starts their journey again. They cross the field of fires without other incident and start climbing the mountain again. With no fires to colour the landscape, it looks bare and hopelessly grey. The beings with hooves require some help at times, but they all manage to continue forward.

Around midday they notice a new fire by the mountainside. This one has no companions, and it is located next to a cave entrance. On the other side of the cave there is shape that from afar looks like statue of a short humanoid, but when they get closer the party members notice that it is actually a real breathing dwarf, sitting cross-legged on a stone pedestal. His hands are hidden in his long sleeves, and his head is bent forward, partly burrowed in a massive grey beard. His eyes are closed and he doesn't react to the party's approach in any way.

 
 Spoiler 
Wis damage to Kanok:  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
Tuntematon's Fort save:  (1d20+7)[ 20 ]  if fails, Wis damage:  (1d6)[ 1 ] 
 


During the climb Kanok feels his vision occasionally blurring and a persistent headache makes a home inside his scull, making it harder for him to concentrate.

 
 Spoiler 
So, I'm back home! The coming weekend might turn out to be a busy one, but things should get back to normal after that.
 
Rathgar
 "It looks like we've found a rogue dwarf out here.  Something seems a bit odd.  I'll ask Anlin if there is anything particularly strange about this person before he stops meditating.  Or wakes up from his nap.  Whichever he is doing." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casting Detect Magic and focusing on the dwarf.
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: For Tuntematon 
There doesn't seem to be anything unnatural about the dwarf himself, though the spell detects a faint magical aura that stems from something under the great beard (could be from an amulet for example). The dwarf is just past middle age, a respectable age especially for a long lived species on these times.

Above the cave there is some faint magical writing, only visible with the spell. Tuntematon can't read it, but he has a good guess that it is in Ignan, the language spoken by fire creatures.

The fire on the other side of the cave entrance has a moderate magical aura.
 
Rathgar
 "I think I may have found something, there seem to be hidden scrawls above the cave entrance."   Briefly ignoring the dwarf, Tuntematon trotted over to the cave entrance and gave another, longer prayer to Alnin to see if Alnin would tell him the meaning of these strange squiggles.

 
 Spoiler 
Getting close enough to the runes Casting Comprehend Languages, then Detect Magic again so that I can see them again.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "I think I may have found something, there seem to be hidden scrawls above the cave entrance."   Briefly ignoring the dwarf, Tuntematon trotted over to the cave entrance and gave another, longer prayer to Alnin to see if Alnin would tell him the meaning of these strange squiggles.

 
 Spoiler 
Getting close enough to the runes Casting Comprehend Languages, then Detect Magic again so that I can see them again.
 
 
 

The letters read:  "Brightest is the purest fire, burning in the deepest darkness. Even hope that has been smothered, can be set alight anew." 
Rathgar
The centaur was amazed by the marks on the cave entrance and how they are conveying speech.   "Huh, these marks seem to be saying something.  They say something along the lines of 'Brightest is the purest fire, burning in the deepest darkness. Even hope that has been smothered, can be set alight anew.'  I wonder if this dwarf has any idea what it is talking about." 

Tuntematon trotted over behind the dwarf and tapped him on the shoulder, trying to see if he could get the dwarf's attention.
CWater
The dwarf respond slowly, and it takes a bit of shaking to acknowledge the arrivals. He lifts his head and gawks at them for a while with non focused eyes.  "Hmrh",  he grunts and mutters something in Dwarwen. Then suddenly his eyes brighten and he blinks rapidly to get his sight to adjust.  "Oh, you are here, aren't you?",  he asks in clear Common and then suddenly tilts his head to one side, then the other, then rolls it around in a whole cirlce.  "Ah, meditation is good and all, but it can be hard on the muscles",  he replies to any questioning looks.  "And one quite loses the sense of time; so I can't really say if you are early or late. I suppose I will assume you are perfectly on time for now."  He smiles.
Etherion
 You were expecting us? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  You were expecting us?  
 

The dwarf nods.  "Oh yes, the prophet said you would come. That is why I'm sitting here, I didn't pick the spot for the view",  he gestures towards the barren mountain and the even more empty desert to the east, where the party came from.  "I'm here to welcome you and to guide you to the challenge. Oh, my name is Elkvi." 
Etherion
 Oh? And what challenge would that be? 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The dwarf respond slowly, and it takes a bit of shaking to acknowledge the arrivals. He lifts his head and gawks at them for a while with non focused eyes.  "Hmrh",  he grunts and mutters something in Dwarwen. Then suddenly his eyes brighten and he blinks rapidly to get his sight to adjust.  "Oh, you are here, aren't you?",  he asks in clear Common and then suddenly tilts his head to one side, then the other, then rolls it around in a whole cirlce.  "Ah, meditation is good and all, but it can be hard on the muscles",  he replies to any questioning looks.  "And one quite loses the sense of time; so I can't really say if you are early or late. I suppose I will assume you are perfectly on time for now."  He smiles. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The dwarf nods.  "Oh yes, the prophet said you would come. That is why I'm sitting here, I didn't pick the spot for the view",  he gestures towards the barren mountain and the even more empty desert to the east, where the party came from.  "I'm here to welcome you and to guide you to the challenge. Oh, my name is Elkvi."  
 

 "Another one?  We get sent these dreams and yet they still challenge us." 
Rathgar
 "Also, a quick side question: what is the magic beneath your beard?" 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily eyed the surrounding landscape warily at the mention of a challenge. She wouldn't put it past this strange, fluffy creature to have an ambush prepared. Especially when the rocks had started speaking to Tuntematon.


 
 Spoiler: Why not? 

I'm going to make spot and listen checks, mainly because I am extremely tired and feel like rolling dice.

Spot:  (1d20-1)[ 3 ] 

Listen:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  Oh? And what challenge would that be?  
 

 "That would depend on you",  Elkvi replies, smiling again,  "You all have the right to choose, the challenge can be a test for your skill in battle, the sharpness of your mind, or... your intuition, shall we say. Though the last often ends up being mostly about luck."  The dwarf chuckles.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Another one?  We get sent these dreams and yet they still challenge us."  
 

 "The prophet...",  Elkvi stops to consider how to phrase his reply,  "The prophet does  respect  the Lady of the Nightsky greatly, there is no greater seer, of that there is no question, however, one can't always fully  trust  her judgement. Hence the challenge." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Also, a quick side question: what is the magic beneath your beard?"  
 

 "Magic? Oh, this?",  he reaches under his beard and lifts up a round amulet that has the symbol of a flame on it,  "I have the honour to carry the emblem of the fire prophet." 

 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily eyed the surrounding landscape warily at the mention of a challenge. She wouldn't put it past this strange, fluffy creature to have an ambush prepared. Especially when the rocks had started speaking to Tuntematon.


 
 Spoiler: Why not? 

I'm going to make spot and listen checks, mainly because I am extremely tired and feel like rolling dice.

Spot: [roll0]

Listen: [roll1]
 
 
 

Besides the party and dwarf, Lily doesn't detect anyone else in the vicinity, neither in or outside the cave.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "That would depend on you",  Elkvi replies, smiling again,  "You all have the right to choose, the challenge can be a test for your skill in battle, the sharpness of your mind, or... your intuition, shall we say. Though the last often ends up being mostly about luck."  The dwarf chuckles.

 "The prophet...",  Elkvi stops to consider how to phrase his reply,  "The prophet does  respect  the Lady of the Nightsky greatly, there is no greater seer, of that there is no question, however, one can't always fully  trust  her judgement. Hence the challenge."  
 

Asha sat back on her heals, looking the dwarf up and down.   "And if we refused?  My skills lie not in any one direction, I must learn to be open to all knowledges the Ancestors may grant." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha sat back on her heals, looking the dwarf up and down.   "And if we refused?  My skills lie not in any one direction, I must learn to be open to all knowledges the Ancestors may grant."  
 

The dwarf scratches his head.  "Well, you don't have to come in if you don't want to",  he gestures towards the cave,  "But to see the prophet, you must first face a challenge." 
 
 Spoiler 
Says he.
 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok frowns, his head aching from...something and this fool dwarf isn't making it any better.   "Do you speak for the prophet, or can we take "the test of battle" and walk in over your knocked-out body?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
 Kanok frowns, his head aching from...something and this fool dwarf isn't making it any better.   "Do you speak for the prophet, or can we take "the test of battle" and walk in over your knocked-out body?"  
 

Elkvi's smile falters just visibly.  "I do, more or less. I dare say the prophet would not be happy if you knocked down the herald on your way in",  he says firmly, though his tone is not as sure as sure as it was before.
Rathgar
 "Bah, why should we fight.  Why don't you test our minds?  I can tell you that, for the most part, our minds are sharper than his spear." 
Seharvepernfan
Kanok grunts at the dwarf's response and nods at Tunta's.   "Had plenty of battles so far." 
Athedia
Asha looked up startled.   "I would like to not fight.  If it isn't a problem." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked up startled.   "I would like to not fight.  If it isn't a problem."  
 

Lily looked wildly confused.  "I don't mind fighting?"  she said, making it sound like a question. Looking at the others faces, she quickly backpedaled, saying,  "But fighting with minds is even better, right?"
 
CWater
Elkvi sighs deeply, possibly of relief.  "You all wish to test your minds? Very well, follow me",  he says and moves towards the tunnel, but stops just before stepping in and spins around,  "Ah right, what of those two?"  He points towards Eldien and their prisoner.  "The prophet didn't speak of them, are they coming too?",  he frowns,  "Or perhaps it would be better to leave them to wait here..." 
Seharvepernfan
 "Not a chance."   Kanok abruptly grunts,  "In we go." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Seharvepernfan 
  "Not a chance."   Kanok abruptly grunts,  "In we go."  
 

 "...",  Elkvi opens his mouth to voice a protest, but decides against it,  "As you wish then."  He steps into the cave and leads the party into a long tunnel that is lit by glowing crystals attached to the wall, at 30 feet intervals or so. If anyone should examine them closer, they will notice that their light comes from a small flame flickering inside the stone.

They come across two other tunnels that diverge from the path, but Elkvi guides them past them and forward, until they reach a larger cavern that has three other tunnels departing from it. There are decorative patterns engraved around the three entrances and one larger symbol right over each. The tunnel on the right has a simple circle with a line crossing through its middle dividing it to two parts. The middle tunnel has the picture of an axe, and the third one's symbol is a messy bundle of lines zigzagging over each other; or perhaps its only a single line all along, its hard to tell. The dwarf gestures towards this last tunnel.  "All the paths lead to the prophet, but this one will challenge the mind. You can still choose another route, if you wish, or split up too, if you like." 
Athedia
Standing at the intersection Asha paused.   "If that is mind, what are the other symbols.  The axe is might I believe.  Is the stone endurance?" 
Rathgar
 "Well, I think that this tunnel of odd knowledge might be what Alnin has been preparing me for.  May my learnings of that which is strange, along with Alnin's direct revelations to me, help us through this challenge." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Standing at the intersection Asha paused.   "If that is mind, what are the other symbols.  The axe is might I believe.  Is the stone endurance?"  
 

 "It can be",  Elkvi replies smiling pleasantly again,  "if that is what makes you lucky." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Well, I think that this tunnel of odd knowledge might be what Alnin has been preparing me for.  May my learnings of that which is strange, along with Alnin's direct revelations to me, help us through this challenge."  
 

 "Let us hope so, I'll see you again when you reach the prophet. If you do, of course."  He stays at the intersection when the party continues down the left path. This tunnel decends and turns right sharply. A little ahead from this turn there is a small alcove and inside it are two pictures of a flame on the wall, one of which is glowing.

Further ahead the tunnel splits in two, but a nasty looking wall of fire is placed in front of the path to the left.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
? means that the path continues that way (I just haven't drawn it or it can't be seen).
 
(The tunnels don't turn quite as sharply as on the map, consider it a simplification. But that shouldn't matter in practice.)
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "It can be",  Elkvi replies smiling pleasantly again,  "if that is what makes you lucky."  
 

Asha stood back for a moment as the others continued down the path of mind.   "I don't know what makes me lucky.  But I know I am not strong, and my mind isn't like that of the wise.  Luck might be my only saving grace." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha stood back for a moment as the others continued down the path of mind.   "I don't know what makes me lucky.  But I know I am not strong, and my mind isn't like that of the wise.  Luck might be my only saving grace."  
 

 "If you wish, you can take that route instead. Nothing is stopping you."  The dwarf nods and gestures towards the tunnel on the right.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "If you wish, you can take that route instead. Nothing is stopping you."  The dwarf nods and gestures towards the tunnel on the right. 
 

Asha looked down the route everyone else had gone down and nodded.  She didn't look back as she stepped into the path of the broken stone.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "It can be",  Elkvi replies smiling pleasantly again,  "if that is what makes you lucky." 
 "Let us hope so, I'll see you again when you reach the prophet. If you do, of course."  He stays at the intersection when the party continues down the left path. This tunnel decends and turns right sharply. A little ahead from this turn there is a small alcove and inside it are two pictures of a flame on the wall, one of which is glowing.

Further ahead the tunnel splits in two, but a nasty looking wall of fire is placed in front of the path to the left.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
? means that the path continues that way (I just haven't drawn it or it can't be seen).
 
(The tunnels don't turn quite as sharply as on the map, consider it a simplification. But that shouldn't matter in practice.)
 
 
 

Lily looked doubtfully at the fire.  "If this is a test of mind, does that mean the fire isn't real?"  she asked, a little louder than was perhaps necessary.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily looked doubtfully at the fire.  "If this is a test of mind, does that mean the fire isn't real?"  she asked, a little louder than was perhaps necessary. 
 

 "Might be",  Taesha says,  "Who wants to try it out?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked down the route everyone else had gone down and nodded.  She didn't look back as she stepped into the path of the broken stone. 
 

The path leads Asha forward roughly thirty feet before widening to another larger cavern that also has three other paths diverging from it. The tunnel on the left rises steeply, forcing anyone choosing that way to slow to a climb, though the uneven ground offers plenty of good footholds. The rightmost tunnel decends as sharply and its floor is unnaturally smooth, one might easily lose their step and slide down the rest of the way to the unknown end. The third route in the middle seems to continue straight forward, though it's impossible to say for sure, as unlike the tunnels leading up and down that continue to be lit with the fire crystals, this one is pitch black.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Might be",  Taesha says,  "Who wants to try it out?" 



The path leads Asha forward roughly thirty feet before widening to another larger cavern that also has three other paths diverging from it. The tunnel on the left rises steeply, forcing anyone choosing that way to slow to a climb, though the uneven ground offers plenty of good footholds. The rightmost tunnel decends as sharply and its floor is unnaturally smooth, one might easily lose their step and slide down the rest of the way to the unknown end. The third route in the middle seems to continue straight forward, though it's impossible to say for sure, as unlike the tunnels leading up and down that continue to be lit with the fire crystals, this one is pitch black. 
 

 "If the first path is effort, and the second effortless.  I believe the luck lies in the middle."   Asha spoke to herself, as though someone could hear.  Well Andras could, but he was often so morose it felt as though he wasn't there.  Taking a deep breath she headed down the center path, walking into the darkness.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "If the first path is effort, and the second effortless.  I believe the luck lies in the middle."   Asha spoke to herself, as though someone could hear.  Well Andras could, but he was often so morose it felt as though he wasn't there.  Taking a deep breath she headed down the center path, walking into the darkness. 
 

Asha treads carefully, so to not stumble or hit her head in the dark; the path turns slightly, and the light from the previous chamber can soon no longer be seen. But the tunnel is conveniently sized, and she can reach both walls and use them for support to guide her way. Some time later, she comes up a sudden hole in the wall. Closer examination reveals that there is a side path that opens to the right.
Rathgar
Having heard Lily's words, Tuntematon examined the fire, then came up with an idea.   "Alright, I believe Alnin has given me the ability to test this fire with little, if any, harm.  I don't know if I can help everyone out with this, but I can help a handful of us.  But first, I shall test to see if my idea holds up." 

With that, the centaur prophet said a prayer to Alnin, and suddenly a cooling sensation fell over him.  With confidence in Alnin's strange protection, Tuntematon briefly stuck his hand in the fire to test its nature.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Resist Energy, chosing Fire
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Having heard Lily's words, Tuntematon examined the fire, then came up with an idea.   "Alright, I believe Alnin has given me the ability to test this fire with little, if any, harm.  I don't know if I can help everyone out with this, but I can help a handful of us.  But first, I shall test to see if my idea holds up." 

With that, the centaur prophet said a prayer to Alnin, and suddenly a cooling sensation fell over him.  With confidence in Alnin's strange protection, Tuntematon briefly stuck his hand in the fire to test its nature.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Resist Energy, chosing Fire
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Would a person with fire protection be able to tell the difference?😛 Yah, I'll be nice and say that yes, you can.
 


His deity protects Tuntematon from any damage, but he feels real heat nagging at the edges of the spell. However, it is much weaker than what the intimidating flame wall suggest, one would probably only get small burns if trying to plunge through.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Asha treads carefully, so to not stumble or hit her head in the dark; the path turns slightly, and the light from the previous chamber can soon no longer be seen. But the tunnel is conveniently sized, and she can reach both walls and use them for support to guide her way. Some time later, she comes up a sudden hole in the wall. Closer examination reveals that there is a side path that opens to the right. 
 

She had found the passage.  So why not follow it?  She could figure no reason not to step down the side path.  Unless the task was to forge straight ahead.  The dwarf had said it was up to luck.  Or intuition.  Asha shook her head fast.  She would get no-where constantly thinking.  Trying to form a mental map of the dark corridors she went down the side path.
Rathgar
Feeling a strange pressure of sorts from the fire, but no burn, the centaur deduced that it is indeed a real fire, but Alnin's strange protection kept him safe.   "O.K., everyone, I'm going to go ahead and check to see what's on the other side of this flame.  Maybe we can get somewhere, instead of just staring at this fire all day."   With that, the centaur carefully trotted through the flames to see what he could see.
aReallyGreatAxe
As Tuntematon neared the roaring wall of flame, Lily made up her mind as well.  "I'm going to hit this,"  she announced, entering the alcove and poking at the glowing picture of a flame. Maybe it was more of those magic speaking scratches from outside.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 She had found the passage.  So why not follow it?  She could figure no reason not to step down the side path.  Unless the task was to forge straight ahead.  The dwarf had said it was up to luck.  Or intuition.  Asha shook her head fast.  She would get no-where constantly thinking.  Trying to form a mental map of the dark corridors she went down the side path. 
 

A few paces into the second dark tunnel Asha experiences the horrifying sensation of not finding anything solid under her foot. She tries to stop her movement, but is not quite fast enough and loses her balance. However, she is able to grab a hold of the rock behind her, leaving her hanging just over an edge of some kind.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Feeling a strange pressure of sorts from the fire, but no burn, the centaur deduced that it is indeed a real fire, but Alnin's strange protection kept him safe.   "O.K., everyone, I'm going to go ahead and check to see what's on the other side of this flame.  Maybe we can get somewhere, instead of just staring at this fire all day."   With that, the centaur carefully trotted through the flames to see what he could see. 
 

The tunnel after the fire wall turns right and Tuntematon enter's a small chamber with three paths on the other side. The path to the right looks clear, but the middle is blocked by a similar flame barrier like the one he just stepped through. The path to the left is also covered in flames, though these seem more intense than the others. Over the entrance to the left there is a shining yellow stone embedded in stone.

On the wall to the right there is a similar alcove as in front of the first junction, with two similar picture's of flame of which one is glowing.


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 As Tuntematon neared the roaring wall of flame, Lily made up her mind as well.  "I'm going to hit this,"  she announced, entering the alcove and poking at the glowing picture of a flame. Maybe it was more of those magic speaking scratches from outside. 
 

When Lily touches the pictures the glow shifts from one picture to the other. At the junction ahead, the fire wall also changes its place, to now stand in front of the tunnel to the right.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 A few paces into the second dark tunnel Asha experiences the horrifying sensation of not finding anything solid under her foot. She tries to stop her movement, but is not quite fast enough and loses her balance. However, she is able to grab a hold of the rock behind her, leaving her hanging just over an edge of some kind. 
 

Asha's eyes bugged out as she fell, only a squeak escaping her mouth before she managed to grab the ledge behind her.  Groaning she attempted to pull herself up the ledge.

 
 Spoiler: Check Strength/Climb 

Strength Check (same as climb):  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha's eyes bugged out as she fell, only a squeak escaping her mouth before she managed to grab the ledge behind her.  Groaning she attempted to pull herself up the ledge.

 
 Spoiler: Check Strength/Climb 

Strength Check (same as climb): [roll0]
 
 
 

Asha pulls herself back to solid ground, though the sharp rocks scrape her hands and legs.
Rathgar
When he turned to look back to the others to tell them what he saw, Tuntematon saw that the flames behind him had lowered.  Worried about the rest of the group, he shouted back out to the others.   "Hurry up into here, we don't know if those flames will stay down forever, come on in here before they creep back up!" 
Etherion
Aidan moves into the room that Tuntematon is in, and (after waiting for others to enter the room) touches the yellow stone in the doorway.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Asha pulls herself back to solid ground, though the sharp rocks scrape her hands and legs. 
 

 "Okay. So not that way."   Asha pulled the  shortspear she had not given away from her back, holding one end to use as a prod and slowly walked down the main path, swinging the spear to tap the ground and the walls before each step.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 When he turned to look back to the others to tell them what he saw, Tuntematon saw that the flames behind him had lowered.  Worried about the rest of the group, he shouted back out to the others.   "Hurry up into here, we don't know if those flames will stay down forever, come on in here before they creep back up!"  
 

 "Alright, let's move!",  Taesha shouts back and herds everyone still left in front of her in the first tunnel to move forward, with the help of the back of her spear when the priestess is slow.  "Lily! Are you coming?",  she asks when passing the alcove.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan moves into the room that Tuntematon is in, and (after waiting for others to enter the room) touches the yellow stone in the doorway. 
 

The stone's glow dims and brightens in turn, then turns to a steady blue shine. The flames on the entrance below are uneffected.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Okay. So not that way."   Asha pulled the  shortspear she had not given away from her back, holding one end to use as a prod and slowly walked down the main path, swinging the spear to tap the ground and the walls before each step. 
 

Deeper in the tunnel Asha sees two small lights ahead. They are tiny and close to the ground level, but they are the first confirmation she had not gone blind in the dark. When she studies the area, she notices that two new paths diverge from this point, each marked by small glowing symbol on the ground. The path to the left has the picture of a flame, the path to the right has... a stream, maybe.
aReallyGreatAxe
[QUOTE=CWater;20115431] "Alright, let's move!",  Taesha shouts back and herds everyone still left in front of her in the first tunnel to move forward, with the help of the back of her spear when the priestess is slow.  "Lily! Are you coming?",  she asks when passing the alcove.

Lily looks blankly at the fire picture for a moment before snapping back to reality.  "Yes, Coming!" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Deeper in the tunnel Asha sees two small lights ahead. They are tiny and close to the ground level, but they are the first confirmation she had not gone blind in the dark. When she studies the area, she notices that two new paths diverge from this point, each marked by small glowing symbol on the ground. The path to the left has the picture of a flame, the path to the right has... a stream, maybe. 
 

Asha went down the path with the picture of fire.  It would make sense given this was a fire prophet.  She did proceed slowly though, in case of another missed call.
Rathgar
[color=dark orchid]"I have an idea, and it may just be strange enough to work."[/color]  The centaur pulled a fuzzball out from the bag on his belt while muttering a prayer, then as it begins to take the form of a familiar kind of rodent, Tuntematon poked the ball, causing the rat to glow.

 "O.K., glowiest of all rats, please forgive me, for I am a bad hurler."   Tuntematon then gently tossed the rat a ways down the passage that appeared to be clear, hoping that its illumination would all them to see the way a little better.

 
 Spoiler 
Used both a charge of my bag of tricks and a casting of Light.  If you won't allow me to use it like that on the rat, assume I instead cast it on my sling stone and told the rat to carry it.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha went down the path with the picture of fire.  It would make sense given this was a fire prophet.  She did proceed slowly though, in case of another missed call. 
 

The path turns again and Asha comes into another crossroad. The tunnel that continues to the right is dark like the one she came from but the left decends sharply and light can be seen to come in at its end, though what lies beyond can't be seen from this angle. The floor leading to this tunnel is unnaturally smooth, making it harder to climb, however, one could probably slide down without being hurt.

 
 Spoiler 
If you choose the left path Climb DC 13, if you want to go down at your own pace. Sliding down is faster, but you have less control over the speed of your movement.

The path to the right appears not to go up or down.
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily looks blankly at the fire picture for a moment before snapping back to reality.  "Yes, Coming!"  
 

The whole party (minus Asha) is now gathered in the second chamber of this path.



 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 [color=dark orchid]"I have an idea, and it may just be strange enough to work."[/color]  The centaur pulled a fuzzball out from the bag on his belt while muttering a prayer, then as it begins to take the form of a familiar kind of rodent, Tuntematon poked the ball, causing the rat to glow.

 "O.K., glowiest of all rats, please forgive me, for I am a bad hurler."   Tuntematon then gently tossed the rat a ways down the passage that appeared to be clear, hoping that its illumination would all them to see the way a little better.

 
 Spoiler 
Used both a charge of my bag of tricks and a casting of Light.  If you won't allow me to use it like that on the rat, assume I instead cast it on my sling stone and told the rat to carry it.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Ah, perhaps I have not been clear enough, these tunnels the most of the party is in are well illuminated. You can still send an animal to go in before you if you want though. Do you?
 


At the end of the tunnel not blocked by fire, the party can see part of another chamber. Some pictures are inscribed on the floor of the tunnel leading there, at three different points of the path.

 
 Spoiler: Everyone 
What do you want to do next?
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily stepped forward and gingerly tapped the nearest picture with one toe, leaping back and cowering in anticipation of roaring flames.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily stepped forward and gingerly tapped the nearest picture with one toe, leaping back and cowering in anticipation of roaring flames. 
 

Lily is right to be cautious for the moment she touches the symbol flames erupt from the floor of tunnel. The halfling scrambles out of the way, getting only minor burns.

The tunnel stays covered in flames for a short moment, then the fire disappears and the ground turns to normal.

 
 Spoiler 
Just made the save, so Lily takes half of this damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
 
Rathgar
 "Hm, these pictures may be a clue."   Tuntematon stopped to examine the pictures and see if he could determine any meanings.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Hm, these pictures may be a clue."   Tuntematon stopped to examine the pictures and see if he could determine any meanings. 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Is he inspecting the two flame symbols on the chamber wall, the picture on the tunnel floor Lily just poked, or both?
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The path turns again and Asha comes into another crossroad. The tunnel that continues to the right is dark like the one she came from but the left decends sharply and light can be seen to come in at its end, though what lies beyond can't be seen from this angle. The floor leading to this tunnel is unnaturally smooth, making it harder to climb, however, one could probably slide down without being hurt.

 
 Spoiler 
If you choose the left path Climb DC 13, if you want to go down at your own pace. Sliding down is faster, but you have less control over the speed of your movement.

The path to the right appears not to go up or down.
 
 
 

Asha continued down the dark path to the right still tapping at the ground as she slowly progressed.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha continued down the dark path to the right still tapping at the ground as she slowly progressed. 
 

Walking through this tunnel Asha comes across one other diverging path. However, inspecting it with her spear reveals that it leads to a similar sudden drop like the one she barely avoided earlier. Some time after this point the main path starts to decend slightly and soon after Asha sees light at the end of the tunnel again, and a hint of a larger cavern ahead.

 
 Spoiler 
Assumed Asha didn't want to go down the hole. She can if she wants to of course. ;)
 


As Asha gets closer, she can tell that the this path is not joined with the new cavern's floor, but comes out from one of its walls. As she reaches the edge, a wave of heat hits her in the face. The air here is thick and hot, though not so bad she couldn't breathe and neither does it actually burn. Looking around, she sees that the cavern is actually a huge tunnel continuing left and right from where she's standing. Its ceiling is filled with stalactites and the floor, over a hundred feet below, is glowing in various dark reds like the hot coals at the base of a campfire.

Some twenty feet below her, Asha spots a small path that runs along the side of the huge tunnel. The surrounding wall is rough and offers plenty of hand and footholds, so she could probably climb down to it.

 
 Spoiler 
Was the description clear enough?
 
Athedia
Asha put the spear back across her back and rubbed her hands against her shirt.  Hopefully this climb wouldn't be too hard.

 
 Spoiler 
Climb Check:  (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
 
CWater
Asha's foot slips and she tumbles down to the path below.

 
 Spoiler 
Falling damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 

Asha is now at: 23/42.
(she had some damage from before)
 
Rathgar
Upon careful examination, Tuntematon realized exactly what purpose the strange pictures in the floor served.   "Alright everyone, these pictures may be pretty, but they are dangerous.  Don't touch them, unless you want to get seriously scorched.  These would truly be strange anywhere but here, yet in this place they feel appropriate.  Everyone, back up, I'm going to try to get to the other end whilst Alnin's strange protection from the flames still persists." 

The centaur prophet then got ready to dash down the hall and jump over the pictures on the floor, but not until the others backed up a little, if they did at all.

 
 Spoiler 
Series of jump checks to try to clear the pictures:

 Jump #1:   (1d20+17)[ 37 ] 
 Jump #2:   (1d20+17)[ 33 ] 
 Jump #3:   (1d20+17)[ 29 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Asha's foot slips and she tumbles down to the path below.

 
 Spoiler 
Falling damage: [roll0]

Asha is now at: 23/42.
(she had some damage from before)
 
 
 

Asha sat on the ground for a few moments.  Stupid climbing.  She groaned as she stood up, rubbing the soon to be bruised parts of her body.  Peering down the path she tried to make out any details.
Etherion
 We may not need to jump over those stones. Maybe one of the pictures on the wall will disable them? 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Upon careful examination, Tuntematon realized exactly what purpose the strange pictures in the floor served.   "Alright everyone, these pictures may be pretty, but they are dangerous.  Don't touch them, unless you want to get seriously scorched.  These would truly be strange anywhere but here, yet in this place they feel appropriate.  Everyone, back up, I'm going to try to get to the other end whilst Alnin's strange protection from the flames still persists." 

The centaur prophet then got ready to dash down the hall and jump over the pictures on the floor, but not until the others backed up a little, if they did at all.

 
 Spoiler 
Series of jump checks to try to clear the pictures:

 Jump #1:  [roll0]
 Jump #2:  [roll1]
 Jump #3:  [roll2]
 
 
 

Tuntematon has no trouble jumping over the floor pictures and passes safely through the tunnel. At the end the is a small chamber with a single large stone placed at the center. On top of it rest two glowing crystals, one of them shines red and the other blue.


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
  We may not need to jump over those stones. Maybe one of the pictures on the wall will disable them?  
 

 "Maybe",  Taesha replies, still keeping her attention mostly on their prisoner,  "but seems like our horse-man was in a hurry." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha sat on the ground for a few moments.  Stupid climbing.  She groaned as she stood up, rubbing the soon to be bruised parts of her body.  Peering down the path she tried to make out any details. 
 

The path continues along the gorge in both directions. Asha can make out some stronger light in the distance to the left, in contrast to the right where the path seems to plunge into the darkness again.
Athedia
 "It's official.  A sadist designed this maze of a 'trial'."   Asha grumbled as she headed toward the bright light.  She didn't trust the light, but her ankle didn't want any more stumbling again.  She pulled the spear out again, not trusting her eyesight.  This place had to many tricks for illusions not to be a possibility.
CWater
The difference is small, but Asha notices some variation in the colour of the ground ahead of her and approaches with caution. Examining the rock she detects that a large section of the path ahead is covered with a substance that emits strong heat on close contact. Stepping on it would likely hurt.

There are some patches on the path that appear clean, so one could cross the area by jumping from one such to another. A small strip right next to the edge is also safe to walk on, though that would mean balancing very close to the deep gorge...
Rathgar
Upon reaching the other side, the centaur turned and shouted down the hallway.   "O.K., I've found the end of this hall, it seems to be a dead end, but there's a rock with a red crystal and a blue crystal on it.  I'll see if I can figure anything else out before I come back." 

The centaur then turned and picked up the two crystals to see if anything happened.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Upon reaching the other side, the centaur turned and shouted down the hallway.   "O.K., I've found the end of this hall, it seems to be a dead end, but there's a rock with a red crystal and a blue crystal on it.  I'll see if I can figure anything else out before I come back." 

The centaur then turned and picked up the two crystals to see if anything happened. 
 

Nothing in the room seems to mind that Tuntematon picks up the crystals.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The difference is small, but Asha notices some variation in the colour of the ground ahead of her and approaches with caution. Examining the rock she detects that a large section of the path ahead is covered with a substance that emits strong heat on close contact. Stepping on it would likely hurt.

There are some patches on the path that appear clean, so one could cross the area by jumping from one such to another. A small strip right next to the edge is also safe to walk on, though that would mean balancing very close to the deep gorge... 
 

Asha paced along the edge of the ground.  Jumping or balancing... Why were there no tests where she just had to TALK her way into the final chamber.  She could do that.  She examined the path some more.  Yes, walking on that would hurt.  But what if she wasn't the one doing the walking.    Andras, what are your thoughts on me... borrowing the horse again?   
Rathgar
 "Well, these crystals I found don't seem to be causing an effect here, and this is a dead end, so I'm going to come back so we can see if we can progress." 

With that, the centaur trotted back, jumping over the pictures on the floor once more.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump Checks:

 Jump #1:   (1d20+18)[ 26 ] 
 Jump #2:   (1d20+18)[ 19 ] 
 Jump #3:   (1d20+18)[ 31 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Well, these crystals I found don't seem to be causing an effect here, and this is a dead end, so I'm going to come back so we can see if we can progress." 

With that, the centaur trotted back, jumping over the pictures on the floor once more.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump Checks:

 Jump #1:  [roll0]
 Jump #2:  [roll1]
 Jump #3:  [roll2]
 
 
 

Lily nodded, staying carefully away from the dangerous fire-pictures.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha paced along the edge of the ground.  Jumping or balancing... Why were there no tests where she just had to TALK her way into the final chamber.  She could do that.  She examined the path some more.  Yes, walking on that would hurt.  But what if she wasn't the one doing the walking.    Andras, what are your thoughts on me... borrowing the horse again?    
 

  And why would I agree to that?,   the vestige asks, voice as devoid of emotion as always.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Well, these crystals I found don't seem to be causing an effect here, and this is a dead end, so I'm going to come back so we can see if we can progress." 

With that, the centaur trotted back, jumping over the pictures on the floor once more.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump Checks:

 Jump #1:  [roll0]
 Jump #2:  [roll1]
 Jump #3:  [roll2]
 
 
 

Tuntematon easily jumps through the tunnel back to the chamber where the others are.

 
 Spoiler 
Ah, I could have mentioned after last time that with that modifier, you autopass the required Jump checks. :)
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Lily nodded, staying carefully away from the dangerous fire-pictures. 
 

 "Hmm",  Taesha walks closer to take a look at Tuntematon's findings,  "If they had no use in that room, maybe they have some here? Or somewhere in one of the other tunnel's we didn't go into earlier."  She throws a glance at the tunnel blocked by the stronger wall of fire with a crystal placed over it.  "After Aidan touched that, the gem now shines the same colour as this one",  she points at the blue crystal Tuntematon brought back,  "Think that's a coincidence?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
   And why would I agree to that?,   the vestige asks, voice as devoid of emotion as always. 
 

  Because otherwise I might die.  Which isn't so bad except for all your apathy you like visiting this world.  And who else is happy to let you mope in their head?  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
   Because otherwise I might die.  Which isn't so bad except for all your apathy you like visiting this world.  And who else is happy to let you mope in their head?   
 

Andras replies with an emotion that contains disdain and slight annoyance, and just a hint of frustration. But before the vestige can continue to give a proper response to Asha's request, the earth starts to vibrate under her feet. The movement starts small, but quickly grows in force until the whole cavern in shaking. Some stalagtites fall down and rays of light shimmer from the gorge.

-------------------------

The others feel the earth quake too, as the whole chamber they are in starts to tremble. Right before it starts, they also hear a long harmonious sound, like that coming from a battle horn.

 
 Spoiler 
Balance checks, DC 12
(I'm rolling these just for fluff reasons, you can do so if you wish, but you don't have to.)
Stiira:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Taesha:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
Eldien:  (1d20)[ 18 ] 
Priestess:  (1d20+3)[ 19 ] 

But I would like  Listen  checks from you all.
 


Taesha is caught off guard by the sudden movement and looses her footing. Stiira is able to stay up on her small feet, as well as Eldien who quickly grabs support from the wall.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Andras replies with an emotion that contains disdain and slight annoyance, and just a hint of frustration. But before the vestige can continue to give a proper response to Asha's request, the earth starts to vibrate under her feet. The movement starts small, but quickly grows in force until the whole cavern in shaking. Some stalagtites fall down and rays of light shimmer from the gorge. 
 

 "No time!"  Asha ran forward and jumped hoping that she would be able to land on a safe spot.  She continued to do so until she reached the other side.

 
 Spoiler 
Rolling a bunch of jump checks.  Use how many you need

1:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
2:  (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
3:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ] 
4:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
5:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "No time!"  Asha ran forward and jumped hoping that she would be able to land on a safe spot.  She continued to do so until she reached the other side.

 
 Spoiler 
Rolling a bunch of jump checks.  Use how many you need

1:  (3d6)[ 11 ] 
2: [roll1]
3: [roll2]
4: [roll3]
5: [roll4]
 
 
 

Luck is not fully on Asha's side today.

 
 Spoiler: Damage 
 (3d6)[ 11 ] 
 


As the binder is crossing the burning terrain, she hears a voice call out.  "Hey!! Stranger!"  If she looks up in the direction where it came from, she sees the head and a waving arm of a female dwarf that seem to come out straight from the stone wall, about twenty feet above the path.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Luck is not fully on Asha's side today.

 
 Spoiler: Damage 
[roll0]
 


As the binder is crossing the burning terrain, she hears a voice call out.  "Hey!! Stranger!"  If she looks up in the direction where it came from, she sees the head and a waving arm of a female dwarf that seem to come out straight from the stone wall, about twenty feet above the path. 
 

Asha bit back the screams of pain as her feet and legs burned.    Wincing she looked up and paused.   "Hello?  Arm?  Is someone attached up there?" 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 -------------------------

The others feel the earth quake too, as the whole chamber they are in starts to tremble. Right before it starts, they also hear a long harmonious sound, like that coming from a battle horn.

 
 Spoiler 
Balance checks, DC 12
(I'm rolling these just for fluff reasons, you can do so if you wish, but you don't have to.)
Stiira: [roll0]
Taesha: [roll1]
Eldien: [roll2]
Priestess: [roll3]

But I would like  Listen  checks from you all.
 


Taesha is caught off guard by the sudden movement and looses her footing. Stiira is able to stay up on her small feet, as well as Eldien who quickly grabs support from the wall. 
 

Lily tripped as the ground shook underfoot, catching herself on outstretched hands barely an inch from a glowing pictogram. She stood up slowly once the shaking quieted a bit, trying to avoid breathing on the dangerous lines.
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Lily and Aidan 
You hear the sound of hurried footsteps. First it seems like they would be coming from the tunnel behind the wall of fire, but when they get closer you hear they're actually coming from behind the chamber wall. (Right side on the map.)
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha bit back the screams of pain as her feet and legs burned.    Wincing she looked up and paused.   "Hello?  Arm?  Is someone attached up there?"  
 

 "Ah, no! There is a tunnel",  the dwarf reaches out and her shoulders and chest also come to view, though now it looks like she's buried to the wall waist down.
Rathgar
The shaking of the ground threw Tuntematon off balance, causing him to nearly fall over.   "What was that?  Is everyone O.K.?  There were footsteps over on the other side of the wall, of what, who knows.  I think we may need to figure this out soon, or we might be buried here." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  
 Spoiler: Lily and Aidan 
You hear the sound of hurried footsteps. First it seems like they would be coming from the tunnel behind the wall of fire, but when they get closer you hear they're actually coming from behind the chamber wall. (Right side on the map.)
 

 "Ah, no! There is a tunnel",  the dwarf reaches out and her shoulders and chest also come to view, though now it looks like she's buried to the wall waist down. 
 

 "Would this tunnel happen to lead to the prophet?  Otherwise I am afraid I must continue onward." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 The shaking of the ground threw Tuntematon off balance, causing him to nearly fall over.   "What was that?  Is everyone O.K.?  There were footsteps over on the other side of the wall, of what, who knows.  I think we may need to figure this out soon, or we might be buried here."  
 

Taesha jumps up to her feet and dusts off her pants.  "What do you propose we do?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Would this tunnel happen to lead to the prophet?  Otherwise I am afraid I must continue onward."  
 

 
 Spoiler: Asha 
 "Well, yes I guess it does that too. But just now, I came to get you out of this path",  the dwarf's voice is mildly frantic,  "We're under attack, and these tunnels will fill with lava soon!"  She nods towards the gorge, and even without glancing over the edge one can tell it has started to emit more heat and light than before.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Taesha jumps up to her feet and dusts off her pants.  "What do you propose we do?" 
 
 Spoiler: Asha 
 "Well, yes I guess it does that too. But just now, I came to get you out of this path",  the dwarf's voice is mildly frantic,  "We're under attack, and these tunnels will fill with lava soon!"  She nods towards the gorge, and even without glancing over the edge one can tell it has started to emit more heat and light than before.
 
 
 

 "And how do I get up there?  I am not the best climber!" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "And how do I get up there?  I am not the best climber!"  
 

 "Not? Oh, umm...",  the dwarf pulls away disappearing into the wall for a moment, then pokes her head back,  "Do you have rope? I can help you if you throw it up." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Not? Oh, umm...",  the dwarf pulls away disappearing into the wall for a moment, then pokes her head back,  "Do you have rope? I can help you if you throw it up."  
 

Asha nodded and wrestled the rope out of her pack, the scent causing her to gag for a second.   "Be careful with it!  It's magic but uh... well don't breathe to deep. And don't untie the knot!"   With that she threw the rope up to the dwarf.

 
 Spoiler 
Using the Troll Gut Rope
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha nodded and wrestled the rope out of her pack, the scent causing her to gag for a second.   "Be careful with it!  It's magic but uh... well don't breathe to deep. And don't untie the knot!"   With that she threw the rope up to the dwarf.

 
 Spoiler 
Using the Troll Gut Rope
 
 
 

After a few tries the dwarf catches the rope and moves out of sight again. A faint sound of gagging comes from her direction and then a shout:  "Okay, you can climb now!" 
Athedia
 Here goes nothing.  Asha took the rope in her hands, hoping this attempt ended better than the others.
 
 Spoiler: Climb Check 
Climb:  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  Here goes nothing.  Asha took the rope in her hands, hoping this attempt ended better than the others.
 
 Spoiler: Climb Check 
Climb: [roll0]
 
 
 

The universe is not wholly cruel and unfair and this time Asha manages to climb up without trouble. She crosses the illusionary wall hiding the entrance and enters a small tunnel. It's big enough that she doesn't have to cram herself in, but is forced to crouch and needs to watch her head. At least the illusion works only in one direction, so some light gets in from the big cavern to the otherwise dark tunnel.

The dwarf hastily unties the rope and hands it back to Asha. In the dim light it's hard to tell how old she is (even if Asha were familiar with dwarf looks), but probably below middle age.  "Hurry!",  she frets,  "We need to go up!" 
Athedia
 "First.  Can I trust you?" 
 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
Sense Motive:  (1d20)[ 12 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "First.  Can I trust you?" 
 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
Sense Motive: [roll0]
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
She seems trustworthy.
 
Athedia
Asha looked at the dwarf and shrugged.  This was still better than burning to death.   "Lead on."   She followed the dwarf through the tunnel, stooped over and glad for her shorter height.
Rathgar
 "Hm...maybe these crystals need to be inserted somewhere like the yellow one inbedded in the wall."   Tuntematon then looked to see if he could find such a slot.

 
 Spoiler 
 Search Check:   (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Hm...maybe these crystals need to be inserted somewhere like the yellow one inbedded in the wall."   Tuntematon then looked to see if he could find such a slot.

 
 Spoiler 
 Search Check:  [roll0]
 
 
 

Lily picked absently at the truncated wrist of her Mage hand.   "or we could take the yellow one out and break it?" 
Rathgar
Tuntematon gestured to Lily to stop.   "Lily, I don't think that'll be necessary.  These gems and the glowstone within the rock here seem to be basic colors, the once that appear upon the rainbow.  We have yellow, blue, and red; so maybe we need to get the orange, green, indigo, and violet ones.  I'm thinking maybe...the passageway in the middle?  I'll test it real quick to see if that way is the safe way." 

With that, the centaur moved his hand quickly through the flames, trying to judge the heat of the flames without exposing himself long enough to feel their bite.

 
 Spoiler 
Dexterity and Reflex rolls in case you want one of those to avoid being hurt by the flames.

 Dexterity Check:   (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 
 Reflex Save:   (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 
CWater
The heat of the fire in front of the passage in the middle seems to be no stronger than the one Tuntematon crossed before, his protective spell will protect him from burns.

 
 Spoiler: Athedia 
The dwarf leads Asha through the tunnels, taking turns to right and left on the way. She can't see the way in the dark, but she gets the feeling that they are climbing up.  "Sorry I had to interrupt your trial",  the dwarf says,  "You were doing quite well." 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  
 Spoiler: Athedia 
The dwarf leads Asha through the tunnels, taking turns to right and left on the way. She can't see the way in the dark, but she gets the feeling that they are climbing up.  "Sorry I had to interrupt your trial",  the dwarf says,  "You were doing quite well." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: CWater 
 "Wait really? You were watching?  How could you? It was blindingly dark most of the time."  She couldn't help feeling a little proud of herself for having managed the portion of the trial on her own. "Excuse me though. What about my allies? I left them when they started down the mind branch." 
 
Rathgar
 "O.K., I think this fire will be safe enough for me to go through, I'm going to go dash through and see what's on the other side."   Tuntematon then quickly passed through the fire to see what he could see.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: CWater 
 "Wait really? You were watching?  How could you? It was blindingly dark most of the time."  She couldn't help feeling a little proud of herself for having managed the portion of the trial on her own. "Excuse me though. What about my allies? I left them when they started down the mind branch." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Athedia 
 "My people can see in the dark, and the tunnels are made such we can follow the progress of any visitor",  the dwarf replies,  "Your allies... Yes, I'm sure someone will get them, though they shouldn't be in direct danger of the lava... Do you want to go to them?"  She seems a less panicked now, when they are farther away from the glowing cavern she picked up Asha from.
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "O.K., I think this fire will be safe enough for me to go through, I'm going to go dash through and see what's on the other side."   Tuntematon then quickly passed through the fire to see what he could see. 
 

On the other side there is tunnel a similar to the one Tuntematon just visited, with a small chamber visible at its end. But instead of large pictures covering sections of the floor, six smaller pictures are located on both sides of the tunnel walls, some are near the ground level, some almost near the low ceiling and others around the waist level of a typical humanoid.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  
 Spoiler: Athedia 
 "My people can see in the dark, and the tunnels are made such we can follow the progress of any visitor",  the dwarf replies,  "Your allies... Yes, I'm sure someone will get them, though they shouldn't be in direct danger of the lava... Do you want to go to them?"  She seems a less panicked now, when they are farther away from the glowing cavern she picked up Asha from.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
 "So if I had been one of you that would have been easier?"   Asha picked up on her more relaxed state.   "You actually did worry.  Last bunch of dwarves we encountered tried to have us trapped.  I figured this was another part of the test."    She paused and nodded.  "I don't really care for all of them, but Eldien is with them and I swore a blood-oath to protect her.  Have they progressed well?" 
 
Rathgar
Tuntematon turned around and shouted down the corridor.   "Well, it's another similar room, six pictures this time, though.  You all might want to come down and take a look, providing that flame isn't too hot for you." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
 "So if I had been one of you that would have been easier?"   Asha picked up on her more relaxed state.   "You actually did worry.  Last bunch of dwarves we encountered tried to have us trapped.  I figured this was another part of the test."    She paused and nodded.  "I don't really care for all of them, but Eldien is with them and I swore a blood-oath to protect her.  Have they progressed well?" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Asha 
 "That sounds mean, we don't usually trap anyone",  the dwarf replies,  "Unless the prophet deems they're dangerous, then maybe. But that's rare. I don't know the details about your friends, I was keeping an eye on you, but-"  Suddenly the cave starts to shake again and the dwarf leans on the wall for support.  "That should mean the lava is ready to flow. I was going to climb up to the upper entrance, to get a better look of what's going on. But... I can take you to your friends instead." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
 Tuntematon turned around and shouted down the corridor.   "Well, it's another similar room, six pictures this time, though.  You all might want to come down and take a look, providing that flame isn't too hot for you."  
 

 "Do you think it might be possible to move the flames, like in the last ca-",  Taesha's sentence is cut off when another small earthquake shakes the cave. After it settles, shouts and other noise can be heard from a distance.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen check, if you will.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 [SPOILER=Asha]

 "Do you think it might be possible to move the flames, like in the last ca-",  Taesha's sentence is cut off when another small earthquake shakes the cave. After it settles, shouts and other noise can be heard from a distance.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen check, if you will.
 
 
 

 "It's too hot!"  Lily said, looking at the flames in abject terror.  "Burning once is enough!" 
 
 Spoiler: Listen check 

Listen:    (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Listen DC 12 
You hear more alarming noises coming from the direction of the wall on the right. There's shouting, scraping on rock and something heavy breaking.
 
Rathgar
 "I worry about whether or not this place is going to last much longer, I'm hearing a lot of breaking over there.  Try mashing the yellow stone or something.  Watch on your side to see if anything changes, and I'll stay here to see if anything changes on my end." 
Etherion
Aidan nods, then walks over to the yellow stone and hits it.
CWater
The stone changes colour between yellow and blue every time Aidan smacks it.

 
 Spoiler 
Let me know which you'll leave on.
 


Tuntematon sees no difference in the corridor he's in.
Etherion
Aidan decides to turn the stone blue, then stop hitting it.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 The stone changes colour between yellow and blue every time Aidan smacks it.

 
 Spoiler 
Let me know which you'll leave on.
 


Tuntematon sees no difference in the corridor he's in. 
 

Lily balled up her fists and attempted to jump through the fire after Tuntematon.

 
 Spoiler: Tumble check?  

Here's a tumble check:
 (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 

and a reflex save if needed:
 (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Asha is lead through long winding tunnels of varying sizes and smoothness. They seem to form quite a maze here, but the dwarf is confident about the right way. In one stretch the floor is very warm and orange glow shines through from the cracks and her guide rushes them to cross this part quickly.

Eventually they come to a slightly larger tunnel where the air feels more clear. A few other dwarves run past them axes in hand. One gives Asha a long look before disappearing around the corner. Her guide leads them to follow and soon they hear the distinct sound of a battle up ahead, though due to the twisting tunnels can't see it yet.

 "That way leads outside. I wonder what's going on... Everything was so confusing."  She doesn't go further that way though, but directs Asha to a smaller side path. The tunnel turns and then on the left side there is a large hole on the wall, and through it she can see the room with the fire covered tunnels the others are in.  "Alright, here they are." 
 
 Spoiler 
Let's say this was just before Lily decided to jump after Tuntematon, so she doesn't burn herself for nothing. (And even more coming back.)
 


The rest of the party can hear the dwarf's last comment, as if coming from the right side of the room, but they can't see anyone. To them the wall looks whole.
Athedia
 "Eldien! In here!"  Asha stuck her arm out of the hole and beckoned.
CWater
 "Asha?!",  Eldien shouts back surprised,  "What magic is this?" 
Rathgar
 "Woah, Asha, you got through already?  Any idea how to get us out of this flameland?" 
 
 Spoiler 
This is assuming that I can see Asha and Eldien interacting here.  If I can't, ignore this and I'll edit/remove this post to reflect the reality of the campaign.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Eldien! In here!"  Asha stuck her arm out of the hole and beckoned. 
 

Lily yelped and very nearly shot at the waving arm.  "You! Are you the reason everything's shaking?" 
Athedia
Asha emerged from the 'wall' a little more, keeping her foot in so she could find it again.   "No!  I was solving the test of will or luck or something and a dwarf lady came to pull me out.  It looks like the mountain is about to explode and I wanted to make sure we got you out.  I saw the lava, and it was rising.  Um... it looks like there might be a battle outside.  This place is filled with tunnels though.  Just come on!"   Asha reached out to help Eldien into the tunnel, turning her back on the rest of the group.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha emerged from the 'wall' a little more, keeping her foot in so she could find it again.   "No!  I was solving the test of will or luck or something and a dwarf lady came to pull me out.  It looks like the mountain is about to explode and I wanted to make sure we got you out.  I saw the lava, and it was rising.  Um... it looks like there might be a battle outside.  This place is filled with tunnels though.  Just come on!"   Asha reached out to help Eldien into the tunnel, turning her back on the rest of the group. 
 

Lily grumbled something about fire mountains and followed Asha and Eldien into the tunnel.
Etherion
At the explanation, Aidan's eyebrows shoot up.  "The mountain is exploding?"  he says while moving into the tunnel behind the others.
Rathgar
 "Well, it looks like that's an easier way than through the flames, so I think I'll go with you." 
CWater
The party follows Asha through the wall and into the small tunnel. They notice she is accompanied by a dwarf who greets them with a nervous nod before leading them to a larger tunnel not too far away.  "Oh hello",  she says,  "Yes, you can come this way, now that everything has become such a mess. But your friend is not quite right, the mountain is not going to explode, oh no. But the prophet has awoken it, to get rid of the intruders. I hope it's enough..."  Here they can clearly hear the sounds of an ongoing battle (shouts and cracks) coming from one end, though there is no line of sight from this point.

 "That way leads outside",  she points in the direction of the noise,  "I'd like to go see what's going on, but it might be dangerous... The other way leads inside the mountain, to the homes of my clan and the prophet. I  should  go back there, since I'm not a warrior..." 
 
 Spoiler: Map 
D is the dwarf.
 
 
Athedia
 "Wait, wait! We are here to see the prophet.  I know we didn't finish the puzzles but we have questions for him."   Asha paused, one arm under Eldien to support her, but otherwise unmoving.
Rathgar
 "Also, some of us are warriors, perhaps we could help before we speak to the prophet." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Wait, wait! We are here to see the prophet.  I know we didn't finish the puzzles but we have questions for him."   Asha paused, one arm under Eldien to support her, but otherwise unmoving. 
 

 "Well, you can always try. The trial isn't always necessary, although the prophet likes to send people that way first. But... it is a busy time right now, you might need to wait a while." 

 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  "Also, some of us are warriors, perhaps we could help before we speak to the prophet."  
 

 "That could please the prophet",  the dwarf replies nodding. She glances at the tunnel leading out biting her lip.  "I think I'm going to go take a peek, just a quick one. I've never known a fight this close."  She starts to walk in that direction.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Well, you can always try. The trial isn't always necessary, although the prophet likes to send people that way first. But... it is a busy time right now, you might need to wait a while." 
 "That could please the prophet",  the dwarf replies nodding. She glances at the tunnel leading out biting her lip.  "I think I'm going to go take a peek, just a quick one. I've never known a fight this close."  She starts to walk in that direction. 
 

 "Wait!"  Asha held a hand out, holding the dwarf back.   "You aren't a fighter, I know you are curious but let us go first.  We can handle the threat." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Wait!"  Asha held a hand out, holding the dwarf back.   "You aren't a fighter, I know you are curious but let us go first.  We can handle the threat."  
 

 "But... I might never get another chance!",  the dwarf complains,  "Oh well, fine, go first. But I'll be right behind you." 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Anyone against going out?
 
CWater
The party hurries towards the sounds of battle, the curious young dwarf following on their tail. There is not much tunnel left and when they pass the last turn they have a clear view outside, to the bloody battlefield. Half a dozen dwarves stand defending their mountain against a group of three enormous creatures of humanoid shape and about twice as many humans. More than a dozen dwarves lay on the ground, dead or dying.

The humans wear strange shiny armour of pale greenish shade, it looks like it’s made of beetle carapace, and some even have fitting serrated mandibles stretching from their neck protections. The giants are tall and lean, with yellowish skin and green hair and resemble more elves than humans in general appearance. One of them flings a large rock with their bare hands that knocks one of the dwarven warriors off his feet and slams him against the mountainside. He doesn’t get up.

The dwarf who followed the party shrieks and reaches for the tunnel wall for support, but yelps again and pulls away from it, her hand red from a minor burn. The whole wall to the party’s right is stinging hot to the touch. One of the dwarves who is healing another in the middle of the battlefield looks up suddenly and glances back at the mountain. Her gaze rests on the party surprised for a brief moment, but moves soon past them, distracted by something.  ”Azar krazeh!”,  she shouts in Dwarven, which Tuntematon knows to mean something like ‘flowing fire rock’.

A moment later blazing hot lava erupts from the side of the mountain next to the tunnel and flows mercilessly towards the combatants. All the dwarves still standing were alerted by the shout and make a quick dive out of the way, but their enemies are caught off guard. Two giants and several humans are swept under the smouldering magma, each letting out a quick scream before their lungs are burnt away, Four humans, three men and a woman, manage to get away and one giant stumbles to safety as well. She burns her foot, but puts out the flames by stomping and cursing. The humans exchange a look, then the tallest man shouts an angry battle cry.

Only one of the humans is holding a weapon, the others were apparently fighting bare handed, The giant is armed with a spear.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Combat time! See OOC for initiative.

 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1-D5 are dwarves, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw are heavily wounded dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
 

 
 
Athedia
Kanok growled and grabbed his bow.   "Finally a real fight."  Nocking two arrows in quick succession, he fired on the nearest human.

 
 Spoiler 
Attacking H2 with composite shortbow with Rapid Shot

Attack 1:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ]  -2 due to Rapid Shot
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 16 ]   14  forgot to apply Rapid Shot -2
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 8 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ]  -2 due to Rapid Shot
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 26 ]   24  forgot to apply Rapid Shot -2 but don't think it really matters since I rolled a 1
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily's eyes widened as she spotted the giants.  "Bigger?"  she muttered under her breath, running toward the battle and firing off a tentative shot.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Move action: Lily will move to Z6

Standard Action: Lily will shoot at the giant.

Attack:  (1d20+7)[ 22 ]  (-3 strength penalty from not raging)

Critical confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 

Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 

]
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34
Starting Position: W4, Ending Position: AA8 

Tuntematon looked up at the giants, somewhat surprised.   "When I heard there was fighting, I was expecting something coming from underground, not something as big as this.  Unfortunately, I think I've asked Alnin for a bit much help today, looks like we'll have to solve this the not-so-unusual way, then."   With that, Tuntematon moved out into the battlefield and let loose a sling stone at the biggest and most obvious target.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Move Action: Move to AA8
Standard Action: Attack with Sling

Rolls:
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
 Damage:   (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d4+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Athedia
Stiira carefully squeezed through the larger people around her, ending up in the opening of the cave.  There she quickly pressed her hand on Aidan and muttered a short incantation.

 
 Spoiler 
Moving to Z5 and casting  Bull's strength  on Aidan
 
CWater
Lily and Tuntematon strike true, wounding the giant. Kanok’s first shot hits the man who shouted the war cry in the shoulder. Grimacing he rips the arrow off and runs towards the dwarven healer and jumps the last few feet to slash her with claws both on his hands and feet, in a manner very familiar to the party.
 
 Spoiler: H2 attacks Dc 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ]  Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 
 

All his attacks cut the dwarf savagely. She's still standing, but is badly wounded.

Another man, holding a club and shield, steps forward to strike another dwarf. His armour has those aforementioned insect mandibles and when he leans closer to attack, they snap at the dwarf as well, dripping of acid.
 
 Spoiler: H1 attacks D4 
Club:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 8 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-2)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 4 ]  +  (2d4)[ 4 ]  acid
 

The dwarf manages to dodge the appendages, but the club connects with his head, leaving an ugly bruise.

The woman jumps between her closest opponent and the nearby rock to slash at the wounded warrior behind her. She has claws only on her hands, but they are long and are covered in blood.
 
 Spoiler: H3 attacks Dw2 
Claw1:  (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 7 ] 
 

Desperately, the wounded dwarf evades the attacks.

The human intruder farthest in the back runs to the right to get a clear shot, but it’s not a bow he’s aiming, Instead, he has a black rope hanging from his lower back and it might be mistaken for the extra of a belt, except that it moves by itself like a lion’s tail. The tails snaps like a whip and two long spikes fly towards Lily and Tuntematon.
 
 Spoiler 
Against Lily:  (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

Against Tuntematon:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 

Both projectiles miss.

The giant takes a step away from the lava flow, then looks angrily at the folks that attacked her and picks up a large boulder from the rope sack hanging on her back. You can see it contains still two more. With spin she sends the rock flying towards Lily.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
Damage:  (2d8+8)[ 16 ] 
 

It hits the halfling squarely in the chest, knocking the air out of her lungs and breaking a few ribs.

 "More humans on the mountains? And a giant! Who are these people?",  Eldien bemoans.

 
 Spoiler 
Eldien is in Total Defense.
 

 "I- I need to get a better look, you are in the way!",  Taesha snaps and pushes the priestess she was guarding out of her way towards the elf and Asha,  "Keep an eye on her!"  She pushes past Aidan out to the open.

The priestess staggers, but keeps her footing.  "She is rude",  she looks at Asha,  "Let me loose, I can help you." 
 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1-D5 are dwarves, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw are heavily wounded dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
 

 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "I- I need to get a better look, you are in the way!",  Taesha snaps and pushes the priestess she was guarding out of her way towards the elf and Asha,  "Keep an eye on her!"  She pushes past Aidan out to the open.

The priestess staggers, but keeps her footing.  "She is rude",  she looks at Asha,  "Let me loose, I can help you."  
 

Asha looked at the priestess, startled.  Making sure the others weren't watching her, she slid her dagger out and cut at the priestesses bindings.   "Look, you run and Kanok and the others will definitely kill you.  Neither of us want that. I can heal you more if you help."   Asha then took the opportunity to use a second charge on the priestess.

 
 Spoiler 
Healing Belt (1/3):  (2d8)[ 8 ]  This is probably a BAD IDEA.  However Asha tends to believe in people.
 
Etherion
Aidan pulls out his axes and rushes to the defense of the dwarves.
As he moves next to the dwarves, he swings his battle axe at the clawed human.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to W8, attack H2
 (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
 (1d8+6)[ 7 ] 

If crit:
 (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
 (2d8+12)[ 27 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked at the priestess, startled.  Making sure the others weren't watching her, she slid her dagger out and cut at the priestesses bindings.   "Look, you run and Kanok and the others will definitely kill you.  Neither of us want that. I can heal you more if you help."   Asha then took the opportunity to use a second charge on the priestess.

 
 Spoiler 
Healing Belt (1/3):  (3d8+12)[ 27 ]  This is probably a BAD IDEA.  However Asha tends to believe in people.
 
 
 

 ”I said I would help, you are being wise. And I can heal too”,  the priestess recites a prayer and some of her wounds disappear,  ”Can I have my holy symbol back, I am more useful with it.” 
 
 Spoiler 
 (3d8+12)[ 27 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan pulls out his axes and rushes to the defense of the dwarves.
As he moves next to the dwarves, he swings his battle axe at the clawed human.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
Move to W8, attack H2
 (3d8+12)[ 27 ] 
 (2d8+5)[ 14 ] 

If crit:
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 
 
 

His axe cuts deep to the man’s already wounded shoulder.

The dwarven cleric backs away and casts a spell to cure the worst of her wounds.
 
 Spoiler 
 (2d8+5)[ 14 ] 
 


Three dwarven warriors rise their axes against the man in the aggressive armour.
 
 Spoiler: D2,D3,D4 attack H1 
D2
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 

D3
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 

D4
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 
 

Only one of them hits.

The wounded dwarves retreat, and the last warrior still in shape to fight swings her axe at the human woman.
 
 Spoiler: D1 attacks H4 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 

She dodges the attack.

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1-D5 are dwarves, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw are heavily wounded dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
 

 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34
Position: AA8 
 "I might need a miracle after all.  Alnin, please help me, give me some of your strange stones again."   With that, three of Tuntematon's sling stones turned into flat discs.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Magic Stone
 
Athedia
Stiira reached forward and bestowed a second Giant's Strength on the halfling in front of her.  This halfling was strangely more violent than normal and it couldn't hurt to let her be a little stronger.

 
 Spoiler 
Giant's Strength on Lily
 
Athedia
Kanok growled a quick order to Fang, pointing to the man he had shot.  "Attack." 
 
 Spoiler 
Very low chance this works.  Attack has a DC of 20
Handle Animal Check:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 
Athedia
Kanok leveled his bow again and shot twice again at human attacking the dwarven cleric.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack1:  (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
Crit: [roll]]1d20+5[/roll]
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 6 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
Crit: [roll]]1d20+5[/roll]
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 10 ] 
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Stiira reached forward and bestowed a second Giant's Strength on the halfling in front of her.  This halfling was strangely more violent than normal and it couldn't hurt to let her be a little stronger.

 
 Spoiler 
Giant's Strength on Lily
 
 
 

Lily ignored the pain in her chest, although she did briefly worry that the fragile elf's hand around her neck may have taken some damage. As Stirra's strength flowed through her,  Lily smiled and squinted, drew her bow back smoothly, and shot at the giant again.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Attack the giant:  (1d20+10)[ 24 ] 
Crit confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
 
CWater
Fang runs forward, but the man evades the dog's lunge. However, Kanok's arrow sinks in his other shoulder. He steps around Fang, moving after the cleric and slashing her again, but missing. Suddenly something catches his eye and he turns to stare at Taesha, freezing in place just for a moment.

 
 Spoiler: H2 attacks Dc 
Attack:  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 9 ] 
 


The man on the left continues to strike one of the dwarves facing him, his armour joining the attack again, but he fails to hit with either.
 
 Spoiler: H1 attacks D4 
Club:  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 6 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-2)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 11 ]  +  (2d4)[ 8 ]  acid
 


The woman with bloody claws spins around, reaching for the dwarf behind her and rips her throat open. She falls to the ground.
 
 Spoiler: H3 attacks D5 
Claw1:  (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 

Claw2:  (1d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 6 ] 
 



He man in the back sends two more spikes flying at Lily and Tuntematon, but neither hits the target.
 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Against Lily:  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

Against Tuntematon:  (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 


The giant grunts when Lily’s arrow hits her in the chest. She grabs her spear with both hands and takes a step forward. The two poor dwarves in her path get cut down when she thrusts the spear through them.

 
 Spoiler: G attacks D3 and D2 
Attack1:  (1d20+16)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+12)[ 25 ] 

Attack2:  (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+12)[ 23 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha looked at the priestess, startled.  Making sure the others weren't watching her, she slid her dagger out and cut at the priestesses bindings.   "Look, you run and Kanok and the others will definitely kill you.  Neither of us want that. I can heal you more if you help."   Asha then took the opportunity to use a second charge on the priestess.

 
 Spoiler 
Healing Belt (1/3):  (1d20+5)[ 10 ]  This is probably a BAD IDEA.  However Asha tends to believe in people.
 
 
 


  ”I said I would help, you are being wise. And I can heal too”,  the priestess recites a prayer and some of her wounds disappear,  ”Can I have my holy symbol back, I am more useful with it.”  

 "Are you sure about this?”,  Eldien whispers to Asha, looking concerned.

 
 Spoiler 
Eldien stays in Total Defense.
 


Taesha stares back at the man, shocked expression covering her face.  "Kashen? What- what are you doing in here?!” 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Aidan  and  Asha  are up.  
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1 and D4 are dwarves, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw1-2 are heavily wounded dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
H2 is the one Taesha called by name.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
Etherion
Aidan steps towards the clawed human, and unleashes a flurry of blows with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5ft step to x9, full attack H2

Battle axe:
 (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
 (1d8+6)[ 7 ] 

Hand axe:
 (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
 (1d6+2)[ 6 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha turned to Eldien.   "No, I'm not sure it is a good idea."   Asha looked over at the priestess again.   "I don't have your holy symbol.  Tuntematon took it I think.  I need to help as much as I can before Andras stops me."  Asha dashed forward and shouted loudly.

 
 Spoiler 
Sow Discord: Andras grants you the ability to sow discord among your enemies. As a standard action, you can force an enemy to attack a randomly determined ally within reach on his next action, and he must do so as his fi rst attack. The target must be within 5 feet per two binder levels you possess, and a successful Will save negates the effect. The affected foe must strike for lethal damage with a primary attack and use whatever melee weapon is in hand (or an unarmed strike or natural attack if no weapon is at the ready). If no ally is within the foe’s reach, this ability has no effect. Sow discord is a mind-affecting compulsion ability. Once you have used this ability, you cannot do so again for 5 rounds.

 Moving to V8 and attempting Sow Discord against H1   I don't know what the Will Save would be.
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34, Blurred (5 Rounds Remaining)
Position: AA8 
 "Whoa, that was too close!  I may need my strange armor's properties after all.  Hämärtää!"   And with that, the centaur began to twist and turn, with one of the three stone discs suddenly flying out from the blur.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: Activate blurring effect on armor
Standard Action: Launch Magic Stone with sling

 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan steps towards the clawed human, and unleashes a flurry of blows with his axes.

 
 Spoiler: actions 
5ft step to x9, full attack H2

Battle axe:
 (1d20+1)[ 15 ] 
 (3d8+12)[ 19 ] 

Hand axe:
 (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 
 (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 
 
 

When the man called Kashen has stopped to stare at Taesha, Aidan slashes his side open with a powerful swing. He jumps away by reflex, dodging the second swing.

 ”No, wait! Kashen! What’s going on?!”,  Taesha shouts.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha turned to Eldien.   "No, I'm not sure it is a good idea."   Asha looked over at the priestess again.   "I don't have your holy symbol.  Tuntematon took it I think.  I need to help as much as I can before Andras stops me."  Asha dashed forward and shouted loudly.

 
 Spoiler 
Sow Discord: Andras grants you the ability to sow discord among your enemies. As a standard action, you can force an enemy to attack a randomly determined ally within reach on his next action, and he must do so as his fi rst attack. The target must be within 5 feet per two binder levels you possess, and a successful Will save negates the effect. The affected foe must strike for lethal damage with a primary attack and use whatever melee weapon is in hand (or an unarmed strike or natural attack if no weapon is at the ready). If no ally is within the foe’s reach, this ability has no effect. Sow discord is a mind-affecting compulsion ability. Once you have used this ability, you cannot do so again for 5 rounds.

 Moving to V8 and attempting Sow Discord against H1   I don't know what the Will Save would be.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
The Will save DC is 10 + 1/2 your effective binder level + your Cha modifier == 15.
 (1d20+1)[ 15 ] 
 


The priestess frowns, but steps forward to heal one of the injured dwarves. The dwarven priestess steps closer to heal the other one, not asking questions.
 
 Spoiler: Healing 
At Dw1:  (3d8+12)[ 19 ] 
At Dw2:  (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 
 


Invigorated, the two warriors rush past Taesha to strike at their enemy.
 
 Spoiler: Dw1 and Dw2 attack H2 
They both flank with Aidan.
Dw1:  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 

Dw2:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ] 
 

Who is distracted by the many enemies, and axe swings find their target and cut the man down.

The last dwarf left on the frontline swings his axe again desperately, shouting curses at the giant who slew his comrades.
 
 Spoiler: D4 attacks H1 

Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ] 
 

He also strikes true.

The curious youth inside the tunnel slumps down on her knees, gaping wide eyed at the gory sight of the battlefield.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d10)[ 6 ] 
 (1d10)[ 1 ] 
 (1d10)[ 5 ] 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34, Blurred (5 Rounds Remaining)
Position: AA8 
 "Whoa, that was too close!  I may need my strange armor's properties after all.  Hämärtää!"   And with that, the centaur began to twist and turn, with one of the three stone discs suddenly flying out from the blur.

 
 Spoiler 
Actions:
Free Action: Activate blurring effect on armor
Standard Action: Launch Magic Stone with sling

 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+1)[ 15 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (3d8+12)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d8+5)[ 11 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
I assume the attack  was against the giant?
 

The stone flies towards the giant, but bounces off her hard skin without doing damage.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Stiira, Lily and Kanok are up.
 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1 and D4 are dwarves, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw1-2 are the just healed dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
H2 is the one Taesha called by name, and is down now.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
Sorry if this image is blurry. New computer, still learning the ropes.
H2 is actually down now.
 
 

 
aReallyGreatAxe
Lily's hands shook as she watched the giant cut down more of the dwarves. This did not look like it was going to be a good day.

She ran forward and kept shooting anyway. It already looked angry at her.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Move Action: Lily moves to AB10
(Darn, not quite enough for point-blank shot! Next turn I guess.)

Attack:  (1d20+10)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirmation, if needed:  (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 6 ] 
 
CWater
Stiira runs forward to cast Bull’s Strength on Tuntematon as well. Kanok puts away his bow and casts a spell to infuse his club with nature’s magic.

 
 Spoiler 
Since it’s been a few days, I’ll go for these two this round. Though I still hope one of you players would handle them.

Kanok casts Shillelagh.
 


The man who was fighting the dwarves turns his attention to the last of warriors in his reach.
 
 Spoiler: H1 attacks D4 
Club:  (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 8 ] 

Bite:  (1d20-2)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 11 ]  +  (2d4)[ 4 ]  acid
 

The attack is savage and the extra jaws of his armour almost cut off the dwarf's head.

The woman curses when Kashen falls and jumps forward to claw at Aidan.
 
 Spoiler: H3 attacks D5 
Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (1d4+4)[ 8 ] 
 

But the ranger is too nimble for her.

With Tuntematon blurred and Lily now covered behind others, the man with the scorpion-lion tail chooses new targets for his spikes, Stiira and one of the healed dwarves.
 
 Spoiler: Attacks 
Against Stiira:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

Against Dw1:  (1d20+4)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 

This time he is successful and Stiira screams when a spike pierces her arm. The dwarf grunts as the other sinks to his shoulder.

To be continued.
CWater
 ”Make way!!”  The giant advances and brings her spear down on Aidan.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack1:  (1d20+16)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+12)[ 23 ] 
 

He barely gets out of the way so he doesn't get outright impaled, but the weapon still opens a deep wound to his side.

 ”No!!”  Taesha screams and runs to the fallen warrior she called Kashen, kneeling by his side and tries to stop the bleeding. One of the dwarves glares at her suspiciously.  ”You with them?!”,  he demands angrily.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal:  (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
 (1d10)[ 9 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 

 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1 is the young dwarf, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw1 and Dw2 are the just healed dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
 

 
 
Etherion
Aidan staggers back from the blow, but defiantly surges towards the giant.

 To me! Take this creature down! 
 
 Spoiler: actions 
5ft step towards death *ahem*, I mean the giant.

 (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
 (1d8+6)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+7)[ 20 ] 
 (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 
Rathgar
 Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34, Blurred (4 Rounds Remaining)
Initial Position: AA8, Ending Position AB7 

The centaur said a quick prayer to close the wounds of his wounded brother in arms, backed up a few paces, then let loose another sling stone at the giant.

 
 Spoiler 
Before my turn:
Cast Close Wounds as an Immediate action targeting Aiden

Actions:
Free Action: 5 ft. step to AB7
Standard Action: Attack Giant With Sling

Rolls:
 Close Wounds:   (2d4)[ 7 ] 
 Attack With Sling:   (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Athedia
Asha pulled out her sling and swung the loaded pouch around her head while shouting at the giant.   "&lt;Giant&gt; My clan killed your kind during the last threat!  Continue the attack and the Ancesters will fight with me!&lt;/Giant&gt;" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack: (1d20+7)[ 13 ]  Improved Critical (Andras) for 19-20
Crit:  (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 2 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Etherion 
 Aidan staggers back from the blow, but defiantly surges towards the giant.

 To me! Take this creature down! 
 
 Spoiler: actions 
5ft step towards death *ahem*, I mean the giant.

 (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 (1d8+5)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 
 (3d6+12)[ 17 ] 
 
 
 

Aidan strikes swiftly, leaving deep red cuts to the giant’s legs.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Asha pulled out her sling and swung the loaded pouch around her head while shouting at the giant.   "&lt;Giant&gt; My clan killed your kind during the last threat!  Continue the attack and the Ancesters will fight with me!&lt;/Giant&gt;" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack: (1d20+4)[ 9 ]  Improved Critical (Andras) for 19-20
Crit:  (1d8+5)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 
 
 
 

The rock bounces of the giant’s armour.  ”I doubt that, puny human!”,  she retorts.

The captured priestess moves out of the cave towards Tuntematon.  ”I promised your friend I would help. Give my holy symbol back!”  Even without it, she starts to cast a spell, on the giant, judging by her movements and where she’s facing.

 
 Spoiler 
Spellcraft to identify the spell.
 (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 

Whatever it was, the giant doesn't look happy about it.

The dwarven cleric casts one more healing spell on the dwarven warriors.  ”That was my last one!” 
 
 Spoiler: Healing 

At Dw2:  (1d8+5)[ 9 ] 
 


One of the them still glowers at Taesha, but they agree that standing enemies are a much greater threat than fallen ones. Circling around they approach the giant, shouting in Dwarven.
 
 Spoiler: Giant’s AoO at Dw1 
Attack1:  (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+12)[ 17 ] 
 

The giant is quick with the spear again, bringing one of them down even before they reach her.

 
 Spoiler: Dw2 attacks G 
Dw1 was struck down.
 Dw1:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 9 ]  

Dw2:  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+2)[ 5 ] 
 

The other is so shaken he struggles to stand straight, much less land a hit.


 
 Originally Posted by Rathgar 
  Tuntematon
AC 18, Touch 13, Flat-Footed 15
HP 34/34, Blurred (4 Rounds Remaining)
Initial Position: AA8, Ending Position AB7 

The centaur said a quick prayer to close the wounds of his wounded brother in arms, backed up a few paces, then let loose another sling stone at the giant.

 
 Spoiler 
Before my turn:
Cast Close Wounds as an Immediate action targeting Aiden

Actions:
Free Action: 5 ft. step to AB7
Standard Action: Attack Giant With Sling

Rolls:
 Close Wounds:   (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
 Attack With Sling:   (1d8+5)[ 9 ] 
 Critical Confirmation (If Needed):   (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 
 Damage With Sling:   (3d6+12)[ 17 ] 
 Extra Critical Damage (If Needed):   (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
 
 
 

Thanks to the spell Aidan’s wound stops bleeding and some of the flesh knits together again. The stone flies past its target.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Stiira, Lily and Kanok are up.
 
 Spoiler: Area info 
Dark grey mass is the mountain, and red (unsurprisingly) the lava. Lighter grey is the tunnel (where the party currently is), and the random darker grey squares represent larger stones. They grant cover if you crouch, but not otherwise.
This site is also a hill, which means that every row of squares is on lower elevation than those north of them. You can charge downhill, or sideways (or in any angle between them) with a Balance DC 11. Failed check means you move just your normal speed. If failed by 5 or more, you also trip.

D1 is the young dwarf, Dc is a dwarven caster and Dw1-2 are the just healed dwarves. There are also several bodies on the ground, dead and/or dying (not drawn), let me know if you are curious about them.
H1-H4 are humans, G is the giant, Remember that Huge creatures have 15 ft. reach!
H2 is the one Taesha called Kashen, and who is unconscious.
 

 
 Spoiler: Map 
 
 

 
aReallyGreatAxe
When the Giant finished speaking, Lily gave up completely on staying calm, even though Stiira's strength still flowed through her. Running forward, she fired her bow yet again at the enormous creature.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Movement: To AC 9 (May provoke an AoO from H2, Lily's AC is currently 19)
EDIT: I now realize that H2 is unconscious, and probably unable to take AoOs. Sorry.

 Attacking the giant
Attack: (1d20+12)[ 27 ] 
Crit confirmation:  (1d20+12)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 
 
Athedia
Stiira held out her hand sending a small ball of coldness flying toward the giant.

 
 Spoiler 
Orb of Cold, Lesser
Ranged Touch:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (2d8)[ 11 ] 
 


Kanok raised his bow again sending off another arrow toward the massive creature.

 
 Spoiler 
Rapid Shot
Attack 1:  (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 5 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+4)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Ranged folks, remember that shooting into melee carries a penalty to hit.
 


 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 When the Giant finished speaking, Lily gave up completely on staying calm, even though Stiira's strength still flowed through her. Running forward, she fired her bow yet again at the enormous creature.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Movement: To AC 9 (May provoke an AoO from H2, Lily's AC is currently 19)
EDIT: I now realize that H2 is unconscious, and probably unable to take AoOs. Sorry.

 Attacking the giant
Attack:[roll0]
Crit confirmation: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
 
 
 

Lily sinks another arrow into the giant.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Stiira held out her hand sending a small ball of coldness flying toward the giant.

 
 Spoiler 
Orb of Cold, Lesser
Ranged Touch: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
 


Kanok raised his bow again sending off another arrow toward the massive creature.
 
 Spoiler 
Rapid Shot
Attack 1: [roll2]
Crit: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

Attack 2: [roll5]
Crit: [roll6]
Damage: [roll7]
 
 
 

Stiira’s arm is hurting too much for her to aim properly, but Kanok hits the giant with one arrow.

 The adventure continues. 
flat_footed
  The Fullmetal Mod   : Raise Thread 