Two: The Approach

Be sure to read and follow the guidelines for our forums.

Dec 10, 2022 8:10 pm
The group travels eastward during what is known locally as "the working part of the day," It's that time when it's still hot outside, but the temperature is on the decline. As you travel eastward you will hit Old Frederick Rd first. That road leads South to "The Rat Shit Hut." According to the Claytons it is possible to cross the open desert east from there to the Southern end of The Crack in Ground. Roy claims to have seen your rider with the baby going further south from there.

If you pass Old Frederick and travel further east you will hit New Frederick Road. If you turn right here and travel South, you will pass directly through The Crack in the Ground. A mysterious place that the adventurers have some information about.

The Road ahead is dusty but the desert itself is actually rich with life. small animals, insects birds and lizards are easily spotted darting between rocks and Brush and juniper trees.

https://i.imgur.com/pFFlCv6.jpg
Dec 11, 2022 4:23 pm
OOC:
Crossing the desert is potentially the faster route, correct?
OOC:
It is a slightly shorter distance, over rough terrain.
Which way do you want to go?
OOC:
I am so sorry, I accidentally edited your post instead of quoting it and now I can't get it back.
Dec 13, 2022 11:38 am
’Rat Shit Hut? Then from there to the Southern end of the Crack. What say you all?’
Dec 13, 2022 2:52 pm
"We can head for the hut and potentially rest there before moving on."
Dec 15, 2022 12:45 am
The shadows begin to get longer as the group continues. For now the temperature has become comfortable and they should expect to hit Old Frederick Road by the time the sun begins to set if they continue to ride on. For a long time there is not much to see beyond the seldom changing landscape. At one point the group notices a stack of branches on the north side of the road. It's formed into a tiny shelter just big enough for one person to crouch inside.
Dec 15, 2022 8:30 am
"I'll check out that hut. Maybe I can figure out who or what is inside." Fenhari dismounts, handing the reins to Sophia. When he reaches the hut, he checks the area around it for tracks and/or rat shit. The ranger's right hand grips his spear in anticipation.
Last edited December 15, 2022 8:43 am

Rolls

Looking for tracks (Perception, with Natural Explorer bonus)) - (1d20+7)

(20) + 7 = 27

Dec 15, 2022 7:29 pm
Fenhari immediately recognizes it as a hunting blind typically used to conceal hunters from their prey. the person would enter from the south side and it looks out towards the North. As Fenhari looks around for tracks he notices a black piece of stone shining in the dust. Upon closer inspection it looks like a piece of obsidian that has been worked into a knife/scraper probably used for skinning.

Tracks seem to go back and forth from the blind northward into the desert and southward back to the road.
Dec 18, 2022 8:43 am
Fenhari puts the piece of obsidian in his backpack, then looks inside the hunting blind from the south side. I wonder if this blind belongs to the Choitll?
OOC:
If the blind is unoccupied, he will return to the group and tell them what he saw and show them the obsidian tool.

Rolls

Peering inside hut (Perception, with Natural Explorer bonus) - (1d20+7)

(17) + 7 = 24

Dec 18, 2022 4:31 pm
As Fenhari looks inside the blind from the South Side, He can see through the viewing opening looking to the north. Off in the distance he can see a single snarled leafless juniper with vultures perched in the branches.
Dec 19, 2022 10:41 pm
"See anything interesting? " Xur'Tual calls from his horse.
Dec 20, 2022 6:27 am
"Vultures to the north. Shall we see what they're interested in?"
Dec 20, 2022 10:44 am
'Lets take a look...' Rook replies, slowly moving towards the tree on horseback.
Dec 20, 2022 5:32 pm
As the party moves off of the road and towards the tree, the horses reduce their speed taking care to walk around thorny brush and sharp rocks on the ground. You begin to notice tiny hills of sand here and there - nearly perfect circles of dirt scattered between the plants.
As you approach the tree the vultures become still, watching you.

When you come within 500 feet Fenhari is the first to notice a sound coming from the tree. It is like a reverbrant high pitched buzzing sound. Once pointed out, the rest of the group notices it as well.
Dec 20, 2022 8:03 pm
What in the hells...?' Rook has a bad feeling about this.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(10) + 2 = 12

Dec 21, 2022 3:52 am
Xur'Tual scratches at his ear with a pinky. "Boy, that will tax your sanity after awhile. Do you see any source?"
Dec 21, 2022 7:17 am
Strange that there isn't a body...

"Whoa! Don't get any closer!" Fenhari pulls the horses' reins. "Those might be red ant mounds."
OOC:
I'll roll a Nature check to see what Fenhari really thinks.

Rolls

Nature (with Natural Explorer bonus) - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Dec 21, 2022 10:24 am
Rook stops his horse from moving any closer until they figure out what is going on.
Dec 21, 2022 4:15 pm
Rook does see what looks like bones and possibly hide spread out under the tree. From this distance it's too difficult to identify them.

Sure enough, when Fenhari looks down at the sand mounds he sees tiny red ants diligently excavating grains of dirt out and marching plant fiber into the entrance of their nests.
Dec 23, 2022 2:25 am
OOC:
As someone that lives in a place with fire ants. They can goto hell
"Good looking out. Can you make out a source for that gods awful noise?"
Dec 23, 2022 7:37 am
Fenhari thinks No body, but there are bones "Sounds like that tree is doing the buzzing. Could be a lot of things. Is it worth it to get any closer?"
Dec 26, 2022 2:57 pm
'I'm seeing bones and skin under that tree. I doubt the kid went over there...'
Dec 26, 2022 6:35 pm
As they decide their next move the sound seems to modulate into waves, the wind picks up and the heroes horses slowly begin to walk towards the tree.
Dec 26, 2022 6:55 pm
'Not thatta way, Surly! This horse is nothin' but trouble.' Rook tries to steer the horse away from the tree back towards where they came from.
OOC:
I’m scarred for life in regards to animal handling checks but say the word and I’ll roll.
Last edited December 26, 2022 7:35 pm
Dec 27, 2022 3:48 pm
Surly seems unconvinced by Rook's plea and continues its amble towards the tree.
OOC:
The people holding the reigns are going to have to roll either Animal Handling or try some other way if they wish to stop their horses from moving towards the tree.
Dec 27, 2022 4:41 pm
OOC:
Adios, Surly.

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+0)

(18) = 18

Dec 29, 2022 1:39 am
"Now that's anout enough of that." Xur'Tual pulls back on the reins and presses his left heel into the horses ribs to make him turn.

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+0)

(3) = 3

Dec 30, 2022 7:59 am
"Damn buzzing is drawing the horses." Fenhari continues to pull the reins. "Whoa! Whoa, I said. Stop. Halt." He repeats the terms in Trenash and Xchiqua.
OOC:
I get the feeling we should have walked. :-)
Last edited December 30, 2022 8:05 am

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Dec 31, 2022 12:44 am
"Blasted animal!" Xur'Tual pulls some wool out of his bedroll and stuffs it in his horse's ears.
Jan 3, 2023 8:15 pm
With an assertive amount of force Rook is able to turn Surly's head hard and away from the tree, Surly responds by doing a 180 with their body turning away from the tree and back towards the distant road.

Fenhari, Sophia and Xur'Tual continue to ride towards the gnarled tree. As they approach, the vultures ascend from the branches and begin making wide circles above it. You are now 440' away and moving towards the tree. From this distance you can tell that the bones beneath and around the tree come from multiple creatures. The majority seem to be directly beneath the canopy of the tree but many are spread out wide around it. It is apparent to Fenhari that they must have been dragged and scattered by scavengers. The tree stands at the center of a 300' clearing dotted with small and medium rocky protrusions. The clearing is encircled by a grove of junipers and tufts of shrubs and grass. The branches of the vulture tree appear to shimmer. Fenhari is the first to notice the shimmering turning into tiny black floating shapes bumbling around the leaves and branches. The sounds gets louder as you approach and you notice a swaying sensation as it moves through you.
OOC:
Fenhari, Sophia and Xur'Tual make CON save to resist the sound,
SchadDad says:
"Blasted animal!" Xur'Tual pulls some wool out of his bedroll and stuffs it in his horse's ears.
include a justifiable skill check to perform the action you've describe while riding your horse
Jan 3, 2023 8:46 pm
Rook looks over his shoulder, puzzled as to why his companions haven't turned by now.'Talk to me, fellers. What's happening?!' he calls out loudly.
OOC:
If possible he will get Surly to someplace he can tie the horse up to then try and help his friends in some way.
Last edited January 3, 2023 8:52 pm
Jan 3, 2023 9:20 pm
OOC:
Could I argue for an athletics check to rip open the bedroll and hold the horses head up while I stuff itsears to block the sound?

Rolls

Constitution save - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Jan 3, 2023 9:38 pm
SchadDad says:
OOC:
Could I argue for an athletics check to rip open the bedroll and hold the horses head up while I stuff itsears to block the sound?
OOC:
go for it
Jan 4, 2023 2:37 am
OOC:
Pft, who needs a horse anyways.
Last edited January 4, 2023 2:39 am

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20+5)

(4) + 5 = 9

Jan 4, 2023 8:16 am
During his previous excursions in the desert, the ranger has withstood thirst, hunger, delusions, and other dangers. This time, Fenhari's head is aching with a speed he's never experienced.

Rolls

Resisting urge to move forward (Constitution) - (1d20+1)

(11) + 1 = 12

Jan 5, 2023 2:03 pm
Xur'Tual jumps down off of his horse and, grabbing the reins of both horses, pulls with all his might to turn them around while shouting "Come on you dumb animals!

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Jan 9, 2023 6:48 pm
Rook ties his horse to a sturdy tree outside the 500' radius of sound. Xur'Tual's bedroll tumbles free as he attempts to rip it open behind him. As the horses reach the 320' mark, Fenhari begins to feel a swaying sensation take over his body. He may use his regular action as he wishes, but he is COMPELLED to use his movement to move towards the tree. At the end of his turn, he may attempt a DC 15 save to resist the overwhelming sound. From this distance he can see more clearly the tiny shapes in the branches and likely source of the sound is some sort of swarm of insects. Sophia, behind him appears to be in a trance as if her driving force has completely evaporated.

Xur-Tual's horse puts up more of a fight, but he is able with great strength to turn both of them around and now must make another Con Save.

Rolls

Xur'tual's horse - (d20+3)

(19) + 3 = 22

Fenhari's horse - (d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Jan 11, 2023 10:23 pm
Fenhari pulls out and lights a torch. He loudly repeats the chorus of a folk song from his youth to try to block the incessant buzzing in his head.
"Grolf the magic dragon
Lived in the dunes
And frolicked in the desert sand
Beneath the two-tooth moon"

Rolls

Resisting urge to move forward (Constitution) - (1d20+1)

(10) + 1 = 11

Jan 11, 2023 10:36 pm
Rook curses under his breath. With his horse secure he begins to move towards the tree with the intention of helping his companions. As he approaches he will cut some wads of cloth from his cloak and stuff them in his ears.
Jan 12, 2023 6:17 am
OOC:
LET'S GO!!
Xur'Tual 's eyes flash gold-white for a split second as he heaves onward with the horses, dragging them towards Rook.
Last edited January 12, 2023 6:19 am

Rolls

Constitution save - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Jan 12, 2023 5:44 pm
Rook feels confident that he has effectively plugged his ears to the point that he won't fall under the spell. Xur'Tual's resolve is strong as he resists the call of the swarm and he leads both horses against their will away from the tree and back in the direction from which they've come. He drags them back 350' from the tree. As they are drawn back, Fenhari, feels a sick as he is pulled back. He uses his movement to dismount from his horse.
OOC:
While inside the 500' radius Fenhari and Xur'Tual will continue to need to resist DC 15 Con, Let's say Xur'tual is clear on this round already due to his nat 20, he can move the horses 60' per round if he chooses to move twice, and Fenhari will get advantage on his save roll as long as he continues to sing.
Jan 14, 2023 2:58 am
OOC:
I'll keep moving as far as i can.
Jan 15, 2023 5:31 pm
Rook will move forward to help however he can.
Jan 16, 2023 10:59 am
OOC:
I’m losing track of what is going on- Xur is leading both horses away from the ‘siren’? In that case Rook would just beeline over and assist him with that.
Jan 16, 2023 4:40 pm
SenorDeebs says:
OOC:
I’m losing track of what is going on- Xur is leading both horses away from the ‘siren’? In that case Rook would just beeline over and assist him with that.
OOC:
Xur Tual is leading both horses away from the sound and Fenhari, under the siren's spell has dismounted from his horse
Jan 16, 2023 6:07 pm
OOC:
And Riley/Sophia is still mounted?
If Xur Tual has the horses under control Rook will concentrate on pulling Fenhari away.
Jan 17, 2023 12:10 am
The wind picks up and the sky begins to darken as the sun begins its descent behind grey clouds misting down rain off in the distance

As Rook walks towards Fenhari he is unphased by the sound, the ground here is sandy with spotted with rocks. They are still far from the tree, but he can see the bugs swarming in the branches. He makes it up to Fenhari.

It's when Xur'Tual is tying his horse to the same tree where Rook has left his, that he notices Sophia has dismounted from the back of her horse and is currently walking towards the tree. trailing Rook.
Jan 17, 2023 7:39 am
Wide-eyed, Fenhari is trying to stay back from the insects. He continues to sing, pulling another verse from his childhood memories.
"Little Jakky Payprus
Loved that rascal Grolf
And brought him gems and metal coins
And other flashy stuff"
Last edited January 17, 2023 7:41 am

Rolls

Resisting urge to move forward (Constitution) with advantage - (2d20h1+1)

(1712) + 1 = 18

Jan 17, 2023 11:06 am
Rook puts an arm around Fenhari to help usher him beyond the range of the strange song. As he passes Sophia, he will attempt to scoop her up- or at the very least drag her by her arm away from danger.
Jan 18, 2023 2:53 am
Xur'Tual stuffs his own ears and takes off running to help with Sophia and Fenhari.
Jan 21, 2023 6:26 pm
OOC:
Any sign of HeroAmongMen?
Jan 26, 2023 2:42 am
Xur'Tual is unaffected by the sound as he runs back towards the group. He is able to not only assist with the remaining party members, but he is also able to retrieve his bed roll. The ground begins to pepper with rain and the sun begins to set as they get back to their horses. Sophia and Fenhari seem to have completely snapped out of it. The vultures cry an annoyed caw at you as they reconvene in their branches.
Jan 26, 2023 3:09 am
OOC:
Can I light a torch and set fire to the tree?
Jan 26, 2023 10:22 am
OOC:
Might make a lot of smoke- maybe we put up a sign 'STAY AWAY FROM THE MURDER TREE'
Jan 26, 2023 1:58 pm
OOC:
Sure, lets see if we can find enough material
Jan 26, 2023 5:36 pm
OOC:
You may try to set the tree on fire with a torch if you like, or paint a sign, just let me know what your character is attempting to do. I have heard nothing from HeroAmongMen
Jan 26, 2023 7:13 pm
Rook will rip some planks off of Rat Shit Hut and with his knife carve a warning sign.
Jan 26, 2023 8:34 pm
"Thanks, Rook. I owe you one."
OOC:
Can Fenhari shoot a fire arrow at the tree or is it raining too hard?
Jan 31, 2023 6:06 pm
Rook finds a plank of discarded wood amongst the detritus of the desert and carves out a sign with his knife warning travelers away from the tree. Fenhari estimates that he is probably too far away to fire an arrow at the tree, but Xur'Tual or he could take precautions and attempt to approach the tree again if they wish.

The rain still hasn't really picked up and will hopefully pass, but it is enough to keep the dust down and start absorbing into your clothes. the sun has definitely begun to set and the night and the weather are making the temperature drop rapidly.
Jan 31, 2023 6:17 pm
OOC:
Is the ‘rat shit hut’ large enough to shelter us all?
Last edited January 31, 2023 6:17 pm
Feb 4, 2023 7:20 pm
OOC:
The adventurers have not yet reached "Rat Shit Hut" the only structure they've found is a small hunting blind. It's made of sticks and logs stacked into a pyramid/tipi shape just big enough for one person to get inside while crouching. It lookis towards the tree.
Feb 5, 2023 2:40 pm
"Should we find a place to make camp?
Feb 5, 2023 3:30 pm
‘A yup.’ Rook answers.
Feb 7, 2023 8:37 am
"Someone can stay in the blind. I prefer to sleep under the stars." Fenhari looks over the terrain for a desert berm or rock formation to use as shelter.
OOC:
Proficiency for Nature is doubled due to Natural Explorer feature.

Rolls

Looking for best shelter available (Nature) - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Feb 7, 2023 10:40 am
'Out of doors suits me fine.' He'll help set up camp once a suitable location is found.
Feb 9, 2023 9:20 pm
The blind is just big enough for Sophia, to lay down inside, but would be pretty uncomfortable for anyone else. Fenhari follows the horizon with his eyes and finds a promising spot not too far ahead. It's a short trip East, just off the road and just out of the rain ducking under a small rock outcropping. It's a tight fit but everyone can squeeze in if they choose. The rain is persistent but never quite develops into a satisfying storm. It's just enough to keep one damp and makes finding a dry spot on the ground difficult to manage.
Feb 12, 2023 6:44 am
"I'll go ahead and take first watch." Xur'Tual offers as he lays out his now torn bedroll in a relatively dry space.
Feb 12, 2023 1:41 pm
Wake me when it's my turn.' Rook says, putting his hat over his face and settling in for some shut eye.
OOC:
Rook will take the second watch
Feb 12, 2023 8:33 pm
During Xur'Tual's watch the rain falls into a steady rhythm before passing across the sky and fading just as slowly as it had begun. The sounds of the rain are crossfaded into the sounds of crickets and other nighttime insects. With the clouds gone, and no moon out, the sky becomes lit up with stars. Some clustered so closely that it almost looks like a thick brushstroke of light crossing the sky. Just around the time that Xur'Tual decides that his watch is over and it's time to get some rest, he hears the yip yip yipping call of a coyote off in the distance followed a moment later by the responding whines and yelps of others.
Feb 13, 2023 1:06 pm
Xur'Tual nudges Rook. "You're up. There's some coyote about." Once Rook seems sufficiently alert, he settles in for his own rest.
Feb 13, 2023 2:54 pm
Remembering the legend about the shape shifting coyote tribe Rook is on HIGH alert. He feeds the fire and keeps his glaive close at hand.
Feb 16, 2023 7:09 pm
As the cries of coyotes congregate together and grow louder, Rook thinks back on Maya's story. He notices a constellation of stars that appear to make the shape of a coyote with his head pointed up toward the heavens.
After some time the coyotes grow silent and for a long while the only sound is the blowing of the wind. Eventually the stars begin to burn out as the light of reds and violets emerge from the ground. The first notes of the morning chorus are the doves cooing their songs near the places where the water has collected.
Feb 18, 2023 6:41 am
Fenhari had taken over the third watch, so he makes a quick breakfast for his companions. "It's just some heated biscuits, but it'll keep us going for a while."
Feb 20, 2023 10:09 pm
"Something is better than nothing." Xur'Tual stretches and preps his armor and horse.
Feb 27, 2023 7:12 pm
The Mourning doves are soon joined by the meadowlarks, finches and robins. A couple of brave sparrows are attracted to the aroma of Fenhari's bread and hop around on some rocks near the camp.

The horses are eager for breakfast. Xur'Tual's is well-trained and has the most professional demeanor of the three. The other two call out at him and begin pulling at their ties when they see him feeding.
Feb 27, 2023 7:16 pm
Rook follows Xur’s lead and helps feed the horses.
Feb 28, 2023 3:39 am
"Let's get a move on! We're already burning daylight." Xur'Tual yells as he finishes brushing his horse and sets to saddling.
Feb 28, 2023 3:29 pm
‘Let’s do that.’
Feb 28, 2023 5:38 pm
Surly is anxious to eat and gives Rook a few nudges of encouragement to move him along.

As they begin riding Eastward the sun rises directly into their line of sight. It doesn't take long for the remaining puddles to evaporate and for the heat to begin. At this hour, the desert is active with life. Rabbits and sage rats dart into hiding spots or freeze in their tracks as the horses approach. Migratory waterfowl make a V in the sky. It is still morning when the group arrives at the first turn from the main road.

Old Frederick Road heads south towards the Rat Shit Hut. The main road continues to the East. On the otherside of the road, to the Northeast, the group notices an elk that has already spotted them. It stands frozen. A small herd stands behind it. Some of them still grazing, others beginning to notice the group.
Feb 28, 2023 10:32 pm
Xur'Tual turns his horse to the south. "We decided on the short route, yeah?"
Last edited March 1, 2023 1:57 pm
Feb 28, 2023 10:52 pm
’South it is.’ Rook says patting Surly.
Mar 2, 2023 6:04 pm
The small herd bounds off to the east as the group moves away from the main road and down Old Frederick Road. The sun is still low on the horizon, but no longer in their eyes. Here the road is more well worn, but less maintained and is merely a suggestion in some places. By the time the sun begins to reach it's apex, they can see a lone wooden structure standing in the distance off the road. It looks like it may have been a ranchhouse, decades ago.

From a distance, the old ranch looks like a relic from a bygone era, standing alone in the middle of the arid landscape. The wooden structures appear to be weathered, falling apart, and mostly in piles of cracked boards and shingles. The barbed fence that surrounds the property is rusted and broken in some places, with large gaps that let in the occasional gust of wind.

The only structure that seems to be completely intact is a small stable, made of dark wood with a thatched roof. It stands out from the rest of the buildings with its relatively good condition, but it still looks old and abandoned.

The area surrounding the ranch is vast and barren, with only a few gnarled trees and patches of dry grass. The sun beats down relentlessly, and the heat shimmers off the ground, making it difficult to see anything clearly.
Mar 2, 2023 9:46 pm
Rook dismounts and walks towards the stable. He'll hitch Surly outside it and carefully look for any evidence of use in the recent past.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Mar 3, 2023 7:24 am
"I'll cover you." Fenhari, a few lengths behind Rook, stops Milpa next to one of the gnarled trees.

"Sorry, girl, it's the best I can do.", he says softly, knowing the meager shade will do little to provide comfort to the horse. He dismounts and readies an arrow.
Mar 4, 2023 8:49 pm
It looks like the stable once led into a modest coral. A couple of juniper fence posts can still be seen here and there, but the lot has become overgrown. Approaching the stable, You can all see that it has two large doors for livestock and a regular sized door next to it. They are all shut. As Rook approaches, he doesn't notice any evidence of recent occupancy, at least not from the outside. There is a small window in the door looking into the stable, but it is very dark inside. Looking in, he can see the light of a high up window on the opposite wall but the light isn't really passing into the building and aside from the outline of a couple of beams extending across the ceiling, It isn't really enough to illuminate much else.
Mar 9, 2023 8:28 pm
Fenhari, arrow ready watches as Rook investigates the facade of the stable.
As Rook steps away from the window and stands before the stable, the wind turns into kite-flying weather. As the wind pushes on the face of the building the door in front of Rook looks as if it wants to blow open, but something unseen seems to be holding it in place.
Xur'Tual notices a hawk in the distance.
Mar 9, 2023 8:35 pm
OOC:
Sorry I missed your last post.
Rook will plant a kick against the door, trying to knock it down without actually entering.

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Mar 10, 2023 12:15 am
OOC:
Would I recognize this as a hunting hawk, or out of place out here?
"Hold on, Rook!" Xur'Tual tries to get out as Rook's foot lands against the door.

Rolls

Nature - (1d20-1)

(4) - 1 = 3

Mar 10, 2023 11:30 pm
SchadDad says:
OOC:
Would I recognize this as a hunting hawk, or out of place out here?
On second thought, it may have been a falcon, or some other large bird, in either case, it seems to have landed somewhere or moved on.
Rook's nostrils fill with a putrid smell as the door swings open with a cracking sound kicking up a cloud of dirt and rat turds. The door now stands open before him.
Mar 15, 2023 1:36 pm
‘Smells like it should I guess…’ Rook sighs. Rook will check the stable fir any sign of recent activity.
Mar 15, 2023 5:42 pm
Xur'Tual gets into position and watches alongside Fenhari as Rook disappears into the darkness entering the stable.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Mar 15, 2023 6:08 pm
‘Bugs! Or crabs?! Or something’!!’

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+3)

(16) + 3 = 19

Mar 15, 2023 6:40 pm
OOC:
Alright, so just to keep things moving, Rook has initiated an encounter. All of the heroes will get a turn and then the Bugs or crabs or somethings will go.
Mar 16, 2023 4:33 am
Xur'Tual takes off towards the hut.
Mar 16, 2023 6:47 am
Fenhari mutters under his breath as he moves forward to support Rook. 'Rats. I bet it's rats."
Mar 16, 2023 9:58 am
Glad of the reach his weapon affords, Rook swings at the cresture. 'This things even uglier than me!'
OOC:
Should the scorpion (or any other unfriendly) enter his reach he will use his reaction to strike at them per the 'polearm master' feat.
Last edited March 16, 2023 10:00 am

Rolls

Glaive to hit - (1d20+5)

(16) + 5 = 21

Glaive damage - (1d10+3)

(5) + 3 = 8

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) to hit - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) damage - (1d4+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Mar 16, 2023 3:23 pm
Xur'Tual and Fenhari arrive at the doorway and are now looking into the stable. They arrive in time to see Rook thrash into a Scorpion the size of a large dog. Their eyes haven't quite adjusted enough to take in the entirety of the scene, suffice to say, there are inches of rat turds everywhere.
Mar 16, 2023 3:25 pm
Rook bashes a large chunk out of the soft underside of the scorpion. The scorpion does indeed step into range of Rook's reaction triggering another attack in an attempt to grab him with one of it's pincers.
OOC:
You need to beat it's STR roll with either STR or DEX check
At the same time, the scorpion's stinger whips down at Rook.

Rolls

Grapple - (D20+2)

(18) + 2 = 20

Stinger - (d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Mar 16, 2023 3:26 pm
A second scorpion emerges from an open stall
Mar 16, 2023 3:28 pm
Here you go.

Rolls

Strength check - (1d20+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Glaive to hit - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Glaive damage - (1d10+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Mar 16, 2023 4:37 pm
As the scorpion closes the gap it loses another large chunk thanks to Rook's expertise with the glaive.
It does however succeed in grabbing Rook with it's immense pincer. He hears it's deadly stinger somehow narrowly missing him and whizzing past his ear.
OOC:
as long as Rook is grabbed he can't move. To break the grapple he has to spend an action which is another contested STR or Dex roll
The second scorpion is further back in the stalls. The heroes are up.
Mar 16, 2023 10:40 pm
Xur'Tual takes a swing at the nearest scorpion.

Rolls

Greatsword to hit - (1d20+5)

(5) + 5 = 10

Greatsword damage - (2d6+3)

(61) + 3 = 10

Mar 17, 2023 3:42 pm
Xur"Tual's sword glances off the scorpion's exoskeleton. It tighten's its hold on Rook's leg.
Mar 17, 2023 4:28 pm
‘I think this thing likes me…’
Mar 21, 2023 4:02 am
OOC:
Fenhari will shoot at the the scorpion attacking Rook if he has a clear shot; otherwise, he'll target the second scorpion.
"Take this!"

Rolls

Longbow attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+3)

1d20+5 : (5) + 5 = 10

1d8+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Mar 21, 2023 5:42 pm
Fenhari can't quite find the tender side of the scorpion and the arrow bounces off the insect's shell.
OOC:
Rook is up, He is Grappled which means that his speed is 0, he can attempt to break the grapple or he can take some other action.
Mar 21, 2023 6:43 pm
OOC:
Hmmm... Rook is indeed in a tight spot. Breaking the grapple would get him free but.. this thing can pretty much wipe him out when it gets an attack of opportunity as he retreats. Similar scenario on its turn if he remains grappled- unless the dice fall in his favor...
Rook swings at the Giant Scorpion, making peace with his gods as he prepares to shuffle off this mortal coil. Turning to his companions he says
'Get out! These things are bad news- I'm done for!'
OOC:
Using the Attack Action and his Bonus Action

Rolls

Glaive to hit - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Glaive damage - (1d10+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) to hit - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) damage - (1d4+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Mar 22, 2023 2:40 am
Rook's Glaive tear's through the front of the scorpion and he feels it release as it gives up the ghost. twitching.

Xur'Tual and Fenhari finally adjust and are able to take it all in. The interior of the stable has been converted into a makeshift shelter for travelers. All of the stalls are open and they have cots and shelves and wooden boxes. There is a fire pit in the center of the corridor. Everything is covered with inches of rat turds. There are large livestock doors shut at both ends of the stable. One leading back to the coral and one leading out to the front.

The second scorpion stands between the three and the back door. Before Xur'Tual or Fenhari can respond to Rook, The scorpion advances on the group it's legs moving quickly on top of the layer of turds.

It runs at up at Fenhari, swinging it's Pincer and stinger at the ranger, but missing with both.

Rolls

Target1-Rook 2-Fenhari 3-Xur'Tual - (d3)

(2) = 2

Pincer - (d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Stinger - (d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Mar 22, 2023 5:50 pm
OOC:
As the Giant Scorpion runs past Rook to get to Fenhari, he will use his reaction for this round to attempt an attack with his polearm per the feat.
'These critters is awful'
OOC:
Natural 20- so double the dice, yes? Different DM's I have played with handle the extra damage in different ways- how would you prefer it?
Last edited March 22, 2023 5:52 pm

Rolls

Glaive to hit - (1d20+5)

(20) + 5 = 25

Glaive damage - (1d10+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Mar 23, 2023 12:57 am
OOC:
Yes, double the dice
Mar 23, 2023 9:28 am
OOC:
Additional dice damage for crit.

Rolls

Nat 20 extra d10 - (1d10)

(7) = 7

Mar 23, 2023 10:31 pm
Too close to shoot, but here might be more. Fenhari steps back 10 feet away from the scorpion.
OOC:
Action: Disengage
Mar 25, 2023 8:29 pm
As Fenhari jumps back from the scorpion after a near miss, it stands in the center of the group. It raises it's stinger high above its head and begins to turn.
Mar 27, 2023 4:11 am
Xur'Tual makes an attempt to remove the scorpion's stinger.

Rolls

Greatsword to hit - (1d20+5)

(20) + 5 = 25

Greatsword damage - (2d6+3)

(12) + 3 = 6

Greatsword crit damage - (2d6+3)

(51) + 3 = 9

Mar 29, 2023 6:20 am
"Whoa, you varmint!" Fenhari fires an arrow at the scorpion for emphasis.

Rolls

Longbow attack/damage - (1d20+5, 1d8+3)

1d20+5 : (20) + 5 = 25

1d8+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Second damage die - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Mar 31, 2023 6:17 pm
OOC:
sorry if we are waiting on me- not sure if this thing is dead. If it isn’t…
Rook takes a swing at the scorpion- cursing but also relieved his name hasn’t been written in The Dead Book.

Rolls

Glaive to hit - (1d20+5)

(11) + 5 = 16

Glaive damage - (1d10+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) to hit - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Polearm Master (butt of glaive) damage - (1d4+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Apr 3, 2023 6:11 pm
Xur'Tual tears into the scorpion severing its stinger from its abdomen. and it's rows of legs begin to twitch.
Fenhari's arrow finds purchase on its soft side and the legs curl into its body.
Rook settles the point and it is most definitely dead.
Apr 3, 2023 6:14 pm
The room has become silent and your eyes have become well adjusted and the sun has become shifted just enough to begin letting light through the many cavities in the wooden frame of the stable.
OOC:
I completely apologize, I was out of town last week and I should've given you guys a heads up. I'm back now.
Apr 4, 2023 1:12 am
"Well that was some unexpexted excitement. But it doesn't look like anyone has been through here recently if these two things are here. Let's take a look around before we lose all the light." Xur'Tual steps an and slowly works through the hut, sword at the ready.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20-1)

(8) - 1 = 7

Apr 4, 2023 6:34 am
"Good idea." Fenhari scans the walls for any writing.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(8) + 5 = 13

Apr 4, 2023 9:39 am
Rook will search the room for any sign of previous occupants.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+1)

(11) + 1 = 12

Apr 5, 2023 7:41 pm
Exploring the stables, the floor, the shelves, the cots and the bedrolls all seem to be buried in piles of rat turds. Some of the shelves appear to have collapsed under the weight of them. Moving around in here requires wading through the pellets. It appears that the two scorpions had made themselves a couple of dugout nests in the turds near eroded baseboards that would've allowed them in and out of the stable easily. Rook finds a broken branding iron spilled out from a collapsed shelf.
Fenhari discovers through reading the walls, that they are absolutely covered. Mostly there is lewd poetry and dirty drawings, but there are also drawings of insects and animals and some sort of symbols scattered throughout that he doesn't recognize as letters. He does find a list of names scrawled into the wood, amongst them is Clayton, Clayton Jr and Roy.
Apr 7, 2023 10:22 pm
Rook scratches his beard. "Not much to go on… make any sense of those scratchings on the wall? Think that could be a clue?"
Apr 10, 2023 4:37 am
"If we're only a few days behind, there must be some sign of the child was brought this way. Did either of you find anything interesting?"
Apr 10, 2023 2:07 pm
’Found a broken branding iron…’ Rook examines the brand to see if it was recognizable.
Apr 10, 2023 7:40 pm
It's a letter D with an arrow coming out of it pointing to the right. Rook does not recognize the brand.
Apr 11, 2023 4:36 am
"I see the names of some of them cowpokes we saw back in that town. I bet they wrote this poetry, although I didn't think they were that smart."

Fenhari tries to interpret the symbols, although he's not the scholarly type.
OOC:
And the roll proves it.
Last edited April 11, 2023 4:37 am

Rolls

Recognizing symbols (Arcana) - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Apr 11, 2023 6:29 pm
Xur'Tual examines the brand closely to see if he recognizes it from the traders that come and go from the city.

Rolls

History - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Apr 11, 2023 8:47 pm
Between the two of them they can see a beam of wood that bears the mark of the D Arrow burned into it, but little else is remembered or revealed to them.
Apr 11, 2023 10:18 pm
Rook will try and see if anything relevant lies in the direction the arrow burned into the beam points.
OOC:
please let me know if you’d like me to roll, and if my companions can help in any relevant task.
Apr 12, 2023 9:20 pm
The beam of wood frames the place where there was once a door for the stall. The arrow points directly at the stall where the scorpion had just emerged. Beyond that the arrow points toward the back doors of the stable leading to the corral.

Below the symbol is a poem that reads,
"Mom to Dad:
Thar's work be done.
Out on the farm,
you don't **** for fun."
A crude drawing illustrating Dad having this active conversation with Mom accompanies the poem.
Apr 13, 2023 9:19 pm
"Ugh. For the kid's sake, I hope he wasn't brought here." The ranger glances around the room. "I reckon this is a dead end. I'm ready to ride on."
Apr 16, 2023 2:41 pm
If you're done exploring the stable you can exit to the corral, or you can go back the way you came.
Also, everyone should level up.
Apr 16, 2023 3:22 pm
OOC:
I'm out of ideas- so I am good with leaving rat turd depot.
Apr 18, 2023 4:33 pm
"Ageed, let's press on." Xur'Tual fetches the waiting horses and mounts up.
Apr 18, 2023 7:03 pm
OOC:
Roll in thread for HP?
Apr 20, 2023 6:39 pm
OOC:
Sure, or you can take whatever the PHB amount is for your class.
Apr 20, 2023 7:03 pm
https://i.imgur.com/q4LNkwT.jpg
Emerging from the stable, you notice the heat of the outside. Exposed skin begins to give you the first warnings of sunburn. Most of the wildlife is hiding wherever it hides during the hot part of the day except for the lizards and the ants that can be seen scattering in their own particular ways as you move to return to your horses.

from here the instruction were to press on to the east into the open desert. According to Roy, this was exactly what he had done when he saw your kidnapper in the distance traveling South on New Frederick Rd. The first obstacle you encounter is the first fully intact fence-line between you and the east. It's a four foot high wire fence, the top wire is barbed and the posts are metal. There are plants growing through the fence in many places. It Appears to continue on to the North. To the South, it looks like the fence turns back towards the hut. The other side of the fence looks like rough terrain dense with rocks and brush.

As they approach the fence, Xur'Tual notices the same bird that he saw earlier, it stands on top of the tallest tree on the other side of the fence. It is definitely a hawk, but beyond that he is unable to identify it. Based solely on it's color he would guess that it was probably native to this environment.

Rolls

Xur'Tual: Perception - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Apr 23, 2023 4:10 pm
"Can someone hit that bird from here? I think it's been following us." Xur'Tual Whispers to his companions.
Apr 23, 2023 4:14 pm
‘Not me- but I’ll keep eyes on it now that you said that.’ Rook says in a modest tone of voice. Clearly this was not the job he prepared for…
Last edited April 23, 2023 4:16 pm
Apr 24, 2023 4:39 am
Fenhari narrows his eyes in the sunlight. "The hawk hasn't done anything to us. The desert has enough dangers -- there's no need to create an enemy. Remember what we were told the Choitll lived out here and were shapeshifters? If this is a natural hawk, he's just curious and will leave us alone. If he is supernatural, he'll see we're just here to rescue the child."
Apr 26, 2023 9:42 am
Hate to admit it but 'I'm not sure I can get Surly to jump this here fence. My horsemanship as of late has been... suspect. Any other break you all can see in it? We're headed east, right?' Rook lowers his hat and hides his hands under his poncho. No use in getting burnt. 'Should we wait out the hottest part of the day- I hate to go into that hut, but I don't want to stress the horses.'

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+2)

(11) + 2 = 13

Apr 27, 2023 10:03 pm
The hawk gives out a cry.
Apr 29, 2023 3:48 am
Fenhari looks in the hawk's direction. "We're leaving, we're leaving,"

Then he turns to the others. "These are desert horses. I think they'll be OK. A child is in danger."
May 1, 2023 3:19 pm
"Lets be about it, then. Only gonna catch a stroke waiting."
May 1, 2023 3:36 pm
‘Sure, let’s move.’
May 2, 2023 9:12 pm
The four foot fence stands before the adventurers, indifferent to their decision to move on.
May 2, 2023 9:46 pm
OOC:
lol- I was hoping to avoid another animal handling roll.
Rook spurs Surly towards the fence in an attempt to jump it.

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+0)

(12) = 12

May 3, 2023 10:43 pm
Fenhari rides closer to the fence so he can look for an unobvious gate.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

May 4, 2023 2:44 pm
OOC:
Quick question for Rook: Is this a standing jump, or are you going to give it a run-up first?
Standby Fenhari.
Xur'tual doing anything at the moment?
May 4, 2023 2:59 pm
OOC:
100% run up and try to jump, even if it gets me thrown to my death.
May 7, 2023 10:20 pm
Rook gets Surly to circle back in order to give himself the space to get a good run up to the fence, Fenhari begins walking the fence looking for a hidden gate. As the three split directions, the hawk remains with the paladin.

Once Rook has travelled across the clearing in front of the stable he gets Surly to do an easy 180 and takes a look at the distance leading up to the fence. He backs up the horse until he feels he has the space that he needs. Fenhari notices an interesting rock near the fence-line, but once picked up, turns out to be plain. The hawk cocks its head as if asking a question.

Rook gets Surly into a rhythmic canter as the horse runs toward the fence. Fenhari notices a spot about a hundred yards away where a stack of rocks has been wrapped in fencing like a column and integrated into the fence. The hawk, upon seeing Rook coming flaps up and away from the fence as if to give space for the stunt.

Rook gets his body into jumping position and grips the reins tightly. Fenhari notices that the fence post next to the rock column seems to be attached to it by a loop of barbed wire at the top and the bottom, it looks like if you simply unloop the top of the fence post, you could pull it away and open the fence, and in fact he can see in the dirt that this very thing had been done in the past.

Rook pulls on the reigns in attempt to get the horse to jump. As Surly's head is pulled back he notices the fence right in front of him and hits the brakes hard digging in and rising up. refusing to jump.
OOC:
Rook make a dex save in order to hang on to Surly
May 7, 2023 10:42 pm
OOC:
Pffft

Rolls

Dexterity check - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

May 9, 2023 11:00 am
Xur'Tual eyes the hawk while things unfold then asks loudly. "You seem to have something to say. What's the easiest way for us to continue forward?"
May 10, 2023 5:57 am
Fenhari rides up to Rook. "You OK? I found a gate near the rock column."
May 10, 2023 3:51 pm
Rook, expecting a jump does his best to hang on, but loses his grip as Surly rears unexpectedly in the wrong direction. Rook is tossed by the horse and propelled into the fence.

Rolls

falling into the fence dmg - (1d4)

(2) = 2

May 11, 2023 5:33 pm
’Never been better. Good horse… Rook leads Surly through the gate.
May 11, 2023 6:43 pm
Fenhari guides his horse through the gate behind Rook.
May 13, 2023 4:10 pm
https://i.imgur.com/WG5CKvU.jpg
The adventurers make their way through the gate and enter a vast open desert, filled with rocks and brush stretching as far as the eye could see. The scorching sun beats down upon them, and a dry wind whispers through the rugged landscape. There is no sign from here of The Crack in the Ground or New Frederick Road. and there is no clear direct path through the terrain.
There are three landmarks in the distance.
Looking directly ahead of them the group see a nondescript pile of stones seemingly stacked.
To the SE there appears to be a circle of tall gnarled cacti.
off further to the NE is a colossal sand dune. The dune shimmers in the distance under the intense sunlight. It stands out in stark contrast to the surrounding desert, seemingly untouched by the wind and stone that shaped the rest of the landscape.
May 14, 2023 4:23 pm
I vote cacti. Why? No clue…’ Rook says.
May 15, 2023 1:51 am
"Seems like an unnatural formation. Lead the way."
May 17, 2023 4:51 pm
The men follow an uncertain, zig-zagging route toward the circle of cacti. Surly gives frequent huffs of protest as the sun beats down and the trio have begun to notice some sort of waspish black insects that seem to be attracted to their sweat further annoying them and their horses.
OOC:
Include an endurance or survival check in your next post
May 17, 2023 5:54 pm
OOC:
Endurance/Con. check

Rolls

Constitution check - (1d20+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

May 18, 2023 1:39 am
"The sun and this heat may kill us before we find our next shelter." Xur'Tual pulls his hood farther down to keep the sun off of his face.
OOC:
Sorry yall, been super busy

Rolls

Hp - (1d10)

(5) = 5

Constitution save - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

You do not have permission to post in this thread.