Carrion Crown Session 30

Session 30

DUNGEON MASTER: [GAME STARTS HERE]

DUNGEON MASTER: [Your watch order is: Grundig-Johan-Mesodias-Solar.]

DUNGEON MASTER: The night passes without incident, except for the occasional Growls of Shadow Splatterface out on the balcony and the sound of carriages and drunkards out in the street below.  Morning dawns clear as an autumn day can be.

DUNGEON MASTER: Breakfast is served at a long oak dining table in an impressively appointed dining room below.  The servants and butler (he a bald, severe man) are obviously acquainted with the protocol for serving the wealthy and the powerful.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "How is everyone this morning? Did you all rest well, recover from the time on the road?"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan queries his companions between mouthfuls of fresh bread and the mornings asortment of food.

SOLAR CE’NEA: I slept well thank you

GRUNDIG: Well thank you I have never sleeped on such a soft bed before.

 grundig fumbles his way through breakfast not use to the elaborate servings of the rich.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "So what are we up to today? I for one would like to check out that stone structure outside the city walls if that is allowed including of course finishing up our unfinished business," says Johan.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar has his breakfast feeling comfortable in the setting

SOLAR CE’NEA: Perhaps we should first retrun these books, I believe we will get a reward and then can equipt ourselves with the gear we wanted to buy and can check out the stone structure in the process

GRUNDIG: “I would like very much to get our business out of the way first and maby have a look around at a few shops myself.”

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Shopping for some good gear sounds good to me. I bet a town this size would have a better variety compared to Ravengo," replies Johan.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar suggests going to the University first and return that book

SOLAR CE’NEA: A walk sounds good to get there perhaps dear Kendra you would liek to accompany us or do you have work you would like to do that is seperate

DUNGEON MASTER: "I might spend the day getting things settled," she replies with a smile. "I'd like to get my wardrobe ironed and hung up."

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar tries to hide his disappointment, Fair enough my Lay, you should be safe enough here!

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Take care with that while we take a closer look around town," replies Johan.

DUNGEON MASTER: The party sets out on foot towoards Lepidstadt University to find Dr. Montagnie Crowl.  The streets are considerably emptier in the bright morning than the night before.  Everywhere the remenants of the nights festivities are in evidence.

SOLAR CE’NEA: As Solar is walking he does what he does in every town he goes into, he looks around to see if he can see anyone observing him and his companions (looking for people that might try to find new people to town who would be easy marks)

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Whoever this guy is that have locked up definately is not popular around here. Check out the mess left over from last night?" Johan picks his way through the litter and mess left over from the celebrations the previous night.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Percpetion 1d20+4 =23

SOLAR CE’NEA: Yes I hope he actually did what they said he did or else he's got no chance, they clearly hate him, would hat to be his defence team for his trial

GRUNDIG: Grundig keeps his eye out not use to being in such a large town

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar notices no one watching them--indeed, the streets are pretty empty at this hour.  Lepidstadt appears to be a city on holiday.

DUNGEON MASTER: The University is not difficult to find, and a brief inquiry is enough to direct the heroes to the antiquities department.  The tall, marble-pillared building is currently the subject of a rennovation being conducted by several builders and craftsman whose hammers and saws are audible in the morning air.

Dr. Crowl greets the heroes in a wide room that appears to serve as both a library and a workshop.  The high–ceilinged workshop/library is lined with mostly empty shelves, and a trio of great leaded windows looks out over the university lawn. A staggering array of books, scrolls, maps, and curios, including shrunken heads, tribal masks, and bits of pottery, lie scattered all over the f loor, apparently pulled from the shelves. The room is otherwise crowded with overturned tables, desks, and cabinets.

Dr. Crowl himself is a short, long-haired man with a likeable smile and a pair of bug-eyed bifocals."Hello and good morning to ye!" he says jovially.  "I'll ask you to excuse the appearances--we've had a bit of a break-in, as you might have heard."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan raises his eyebrows, "I'm afraid we are at a loss? We were unaware of a break-in."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Is everyone ok?  no-one was injured?

DUNGEON MASTER: "No one injured, thank Pharasama! But the damage!" he cries waving his hand around wildly.  "No idea what the Beast was doing here in the first place!  Raging about and stomping and shattering and breaking!"

SOLAR CE’NEA: The Beast? Is this where they caught him?

GRUNDIG: Grundig looks around the room and turns to dr Crowl and askes “do you know what they where after.”

DUNGEON MASTER: "It is! Haven't you heard!  He was in here, raging like a demon, right out of hell you understand, and then he suddenly quiets down and the guards take him.  Almost nothing missing, which is a odd to my mind.  Anyway, how can I help you?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: ALmost nothing, what was taken?  did they find it on the beast?

SOLAR CE’NEA: Oh I am sorry my dear Dr, we are associates of Professor Lorrimor, unfortunately he recently passed, and in his will he asked us to bring you these.  Solar indicates what the Professor asked them to bring

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan quickly produces the items Solar refers to from his backpack for Dr Crowl to inspect.

GRUNDIG: "do you know what type of creature this beast is"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Don't know for sure about any 'they'--it was just the beast so far as we know, and the only thing missing so far is that stone effigy.  The Seasage Effigy, we called it.  Wasn't on the Beast when they took him, so maybe there was others involved in this as well.  I believe that's probably how it came out."

To Solar he replies: "I had heard about poor Lorrimor.  Such a tragedy!  Heard it was a falling gargoyle, but I don't believe a word of that.  He was a man of action, who took his theires out in the field to test them!  Mark my words, it wasn't a falling stone that killed the old grouch!"

DUNGEON MASTER: He accepts the book with thanks.

DUNGEON MASTER: "I didn't see the Beast myself, but the guards said he was a stitched horror, a golem, an abomination.  I'd guess on a flesh golem of some sort, based on their description."

SOLAR CE’NEA: We don't believe the Professor died neatly from a gargoyle either.  I say Dr out of curiosity have you heard of the Whispering way (percpetion check 1d20+4=10 Solar is loking to see the Drs reaction)

SOLAR CE’NEA: Strange, what would a Flesh GOlem what with a stone effigy, was it magical or just historically significant?

GRUNDIG: was there anything unusual about the Seasage Effigy that you could tell us?

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "That is most unexpected. A flesh golem that is. Do flesh golems possess some sense of intelligence to search for items and suddenly leave quietly when the guards show up?" Johan scratches his head at the thought not quiet knowing what is the norm for a flesh golem.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Now what a question you ask!" he says drawing up and peering over his spectacles at Solar.  "I certainly have heard of them.  Any proper Scholar of Antiquties in this land knows of them of course.  Are you such a scholar?"

To Grundig: "Not a thing!  It was three foot tall stone statue that wasn't magical in the least.  The golem or whatever the beast is didn't have it with him when he...it...was captured and I don't know that it *would* interest him, actually."

SOLAR CE’NEA: I am A Scholar, my family is the Ce'nedras

DUNGEON MASTER: To Johan: "Not as a general rule, no.  Although I'm not sure I would call his submitting to arrest 'leaving quietly'."

SOLAR CE’NEA: My family are significant researchers/ scolars at a university in Vasisia

GRUNDIG: is there sighnes of a brake in or do you think he got in by other means

SOLAR CE’NEA: And the Effigy wasn't found on him? that would mean he either gave it to someone or hid it here.  I wonder professor, for my own curiosity sake could we look around where he was rampaging

DUNGEON MASTER: To Solar: "Your family name does sound somewhat familiar.  Well!  It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

To Johan: "I can't see why not--here, let me show you about."

SOLAR CE’NEA: The pleaseure is all mine dear Dr, I am always very happy to know and confere with other Scholars, hence my close association with the Professor

GRUNDIG: grundig looks arround for sighnes of an accomlice to the beast. survival check 1d20+11=20

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar looks around for clues of what actually happened here, if the door or Window is borken, easy to open , which way the door or window shards are facing (to determined if the door/window were opened from inside or outside,) any unusual markings any burn marks indicating magic forcing entry, and if anything has been slide along the floor (scuff marks etc) percpetion 1d20+4= 22

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar follows this up with a detect magic sweep

DUNGEON MASTER: Grundig notices the tracks of huge, heavy, iron-nailed boots.  The trail is easy to follow—the footprints enter in through the back door, then passe through the auditorium on his way to the workshop.

"Here is where the effigy stood," puts in Prof. Crowl.  "As I said, it was just a three foot tall statue, greenish, and it had a face full of grotesque tentacles.  Personally I think it might have been an idol to one of the mysterious cults of the Dark Tapestry, but that's just speculation.  It's been part of our collection here for years.  And I'm sure it'll be back in our collection shortly, with the Beast already in custody."

GRUNDIG: grundig turns to his companions and tells them what he has found and continues to follow them.

DUNGEON MASTER: The tracks go back and forth across the room a couple of times, following a pattern of thrashed display cases and broken furniture.

DUNGEON MASTER: A number of the items in the display cases radiate magic.  Solar discovers that the back door was clearly forced open from the outside, along with the remains of a fine silver wire and a tiny bell that appear to be the components for an alarm spell.  There is a distinct smell of beeswax in the air.

Interestingly, the area where the Seasage Effigy once stood appears to not have been touched by the Beast's rampage--the glassware is all unbroken, the small, delicate fetishes that line the display case are covered with a bit of dust indicating they have not been moved in some time, and the wood is unsplintered.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Dr, do you know about this wire and an alarm spell, is this something done by the University? or was it someone not offical

SOLAR CE’NEA: Why is there the smell of beeswax? is that normal Dr?

DUNGEON MASTER: "Yes, we set the alarm--it's something we set up every night.  It alerted the guards and they came and apprehended the Beast in short order."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Ahhhh

DUNGEON MASTER: After inquiring amongst the workers, the Professor discovers and informs Solar that the smell is the cleaning polish used throughout the university.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Do you know how long it took the guards to get to the best from when he set of the alarm?

GRUNDIG: did the beast have iron clad shoo's

DUNGEON MASTER: "I didn't see them, but I imagine he may have."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Do you have any infuence with the city guard? If the beast has some capacity of intellect it might answer some questions if asked correctly. This assumes it is able to speak," says Johan. Johan inspects the room for places that could be used to conceal the statue using the signs of disturbance and the tracks as somewhat of a guide.

Perception check: 1d20+9 = 20

Survival check: 1d20+10 = 30

DUNGEON MASTER: "I don't know, but about a minute I imagine."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "He could have swollowed it if the beast is a fairly decent size. Being a golem it might not have killed it to do such an obscure thing," states Johan.

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan does a pretty thourough search of the room.  He does not find any hidden Effigies, though there could be any number of nooks and crannies in this rather large room.  He does discover one interesting thing however--of the three windows in the workshop, two are covered in grime, but one is not.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan gestures to the window of interest for all to see, "This window looks like it has recently been adjusted while the others have not. It's really the only thing that stands out to me. May I inspect it further with your permission?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Interesting! Yes, yes be my guest!"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan asks Mesodias for his Rope of Climbing. He inspects the window carefully before opening it. His intension is to activate the Rope of Climbing to attach to the roof or a section of the external building to search outside for anything of interest.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Eeeeeeehhh," says Mesodias, fishing the rope from his bags.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar says to Grundig, could you look outside for foot prints, if it was passed outside, the weight may make footprints easier to spot

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan Climb check: 1d20+8 = 21

Johan Perception check: 1d20+9 = 26

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar ask the Dr. were these ladders and equiptment here when the Beast made his entry?

DUNGEON MASTER: "Indeed they were not!" replies the professor.  "The city paid for the damages out of gratitude for our guardmen's courage in apprehending the Beast!"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Well deserved Sir, Well desevered indeed!

GRUNDIG: Grundig looks outside for any sighns of tracks as Johan sergests.

Survival 1d20+11=26

SOLAR CE’NEA: I am new to the town, is the City usually this generous, it may be worth moving to such a generous town?

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan discovers the roof is made of clay tiles.  None of them appear to be chipped or broken above the windows.  There are no workman in sight up here--or anything else for that matter, except for a pair of ravens nesting near the eaves.

DUNGEON MASTER: "In this case?  Why it is the least they could do!  That thing has allegedly been terrorizing the countryside for years!"

DUNGEON MASTER: Grundig discovers no tracks in the lawn outside the window--which stands to reason, as it has been several days since the break-in occured.

DUNGEON MASTER: "The break-in occured two nights prior," puts in the professor.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Dr just one final question from me, do you perchance have any idea of the approximate weight of this idol?

DUNGEON MASTER: "Hmm.  It was three feet tall and fairly thin--I'd say it was about thirty pounds at the most."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan climbs back down before returning the Rope of Climbing to Mesodias. "Thanks for the rope. Looks like no sign of disturbance on the rooftop. I don't know what has happened here."

SOLAR CE’NEA: I like Grundigs theory but I cna't see how we can truely establish what actually happened, it is a mystery

SOLAR CE’NEA: We hope your atifact is returned soon Dr

DUNGEON MASTER: "Well that was all very interesting," says the professor  "I suppose the artifact must have been passed out the window.  But why? And to whom?" he gestures wildly.  "He is to be executed in a few days.  I hope the city gets to the bottom of this soon!"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Good day!"

DUNGEON MASTER: The party heads back out into Lepidstadt, back towards the townhouse that is the residence of Judge Daramid.  It is a fine building, filled with art, and situated near the center of the town.  She answers the door herself, and invites the party in at once.

"I had heard of Lorrimor's death," she says sadly.  "It is a shame--he was a good man and a good friend."

*** DUNGEON MASTER sent judge daramid.png judge daramid.png judge daramid.png ***

SOLAR CE’NEA: Indeed your Honour, it is not just a lost to us but to humanity as well, his contirbutions in many different fields will be missed

SOLAR CE’NEA: The Professor askes us to give you a book of a sensative nature

DUNGEON MASTER: "I saw the will.  What books did he will to me?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: As Johan gets the willed items out, Solar goes on to expalin to the judge what Johan Mesodius and he had experienced, fought and overcome  since going to the Porfessors funeral.

DUNGEON MASTER: Judge Daramid listens quietly as Solar tells of thier adventures.  She is a stern woman, whose gray hair is pulled back in a way that emphasizes her icy blue eyes--eyes that narrow in anger at the tragedy that nearly befell the professor's hometown.  She reacts in a similar fashion to the speculation that the professor was murdered by the whispering way, and finally one more time when the group relates what they discovered in the university a mere hour ago.

"You have done well," she begins, "to prevent these awful injustices.  I cannot imagine what would have happened without your timely aid."  At that she takes the books graciously from Johan and pays each hero the 100pp to which he was entitled.

But then she continues: "There is another injustice afoot in our town too, I am afriad.  This beast--I am afraid he will find no justice when he stands before the tribune this week.  In the townsfolk's eyes, he is guilty.  His cousel is... honest, but lacking, and I have doubt that my fellow judges will be interested in seeking out the truth when it is more convienient to kill this thing and be done.  You have made your delivery to me.  Have you plans to journey on at once?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar looks at his companions and says, Well I had not really planned anything inparticular after this point, I was oging to see what was around and decide then

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Please tell us what it is you know of the beast and the circumstances behind his fate," says Johan. "It seems everyone has trialed him already yet he is something of a mystery to me being an outsider."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Yes it seems a little strange, no-one has really investigated what happened at the University as far as I could see.

GRUNDIG: is there any evidance to sugest that he is inosant in any way?

DUNGEON MASTER: "There are many stories and rumors of his crimes, but I have also heard tales of his kindesses as well.  And I do not like this business of him being trapped in the University--why would he do that to himself?  Your guesses about idols being passed out windows concern me further." She pasues and looks around at the heroes.  "I cannot intervene myself--I am a judge, and it would not be... expedient for me to speak on his behalf.  But you four--If you were to aid the Beast's barrister in ensuring a fair trial, I would pay you again what you were given in the will."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Payment is good, and if we succedd I would certainly welcome it but I suspect even with out that offer we maybhave started investigating on our own, we find this strange, however investigating it with your authority behind us would make it much easier!

GRUNDIG: we can aide do you have any idear on where we might start.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Investigating with my authority would achieve nothing but forcing me to recuse myself from this case," she replies.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Ahhh of course your honour, I mearly meant having your blessing so if people think we are interferring and try to have us locked up as there appears to be very heated opposition against the beast that there would be someone understanding that we are not trouble makers and able to judge us accordingly

SOLAR CE’NEA: Does the Beast have a name, and does he not have someone reprenting him, perhaps they would be willing to accept our assitance

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "I'm sure after what we have been though we can get to the bottom of this mess. And as an outsider we won't care for any politics of bullshit we find along the way," says Johan.

DUNGEON MASTER: "You have my gratitude, but it is important that you act as free agents in this matter.  You will need to register with the court clerks as volunteer defenders for the Beast.  Also you will want to meet with Barrister Gustav Kaple, to see what assistnace he requires.  As I have said, he is an honest man.  But he stutters.  ...And it is best if my offer of payment be kept between us."

DUNGEON MASTER: The Judge looks sharply at Johan's profanity, but holds her tongue.  "I have every faith in you, as the professor Lorrimor did," she replies.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Understood your honour, we will only be looking for the truth to resent to the court and the people, so the payment would not sway what we do nor need it to be publisised

DUNGEON MASTER: "I believe that.  And that is why I can offer it with a clear concience."

SOLAR CE’NEA: SHould we mention to Barrister Gustav that you thought we may be of assitance or is it best he doesn't know?

SOLAR CE’NEA: Just not sure how strnagers would be recieved there

DUNGEON MASTER: "He does not need to know.  He seems...out of his depths, and I am sure he would be glad for assistance.  He is not in a position to question where his assistnace comes from."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Understood!

GRUNDIG: yes by all means we shell register with the corts and seek out Gustay and find out what he knows.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Is there anything else pertinant that we should know your honour about the beast.

DUNGEON MASTER: "The Beast?  He is intelligent, though he is also cunning.  He seems baffeled by the laws of the world of men, but at the same time he is no fool.

DUNGEON MASTER: "He has no name that I know of, other than 'The Beast of Lepidstadt'.  He answers to it."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Does anyone know who created him? He sounds like something put together in a story to scare children from staying out late. And yet you mention he almost has a soul and a free will which makes this even more interesting if that is the right way to put it," says Johan as he ponders the makings of the beast.

DUNGEON MASTER: "I do not know.  He mentioned his father once during our conversation, but he would not speak of the matter further."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "If we do wish to speak to you would down the track what is the best way to get word to you? Do you have a place we could drop off a letter without attracting attention between us until this matter has been resolved?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "You can leave messages at this house and I will recieve them at night.  The trial will begin tomorrow and is scheduled to run for three days. During the trial I will unavailiable, except of course in official capacity.  Judgement should be rendered on the third day.  The citizens expect to see the beast burn on that evening," she finishes grimly.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "I'm happy to work during the night collecting evidence and reviewing paperwork involved. That last one was meant for Solar."

GRUNDIG: well then we should waist on more time and make a start on this right away

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Grundig and myself can track any footprints of interest and find anything otherwise has been concealed."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Finally your honour, If I might be so bold, why did the Professor give you such an item in his will?  do you know why, I ask becasue although I trust the professors judgement and asking us to investigate the truth here clearly makes you as a good person, such a gift is not made lightly and I wonder if you have knowledge of evil things that may be happening in this country involving the Whispering Way or the Order of the palpatine

DUNGEON MASTER: "He gave it to me because he had borrowed it from me," she replies.  "I know of the Whispering Way, and I believe they murdered Professor Lorrimor because he was their enemy.  Your story seems to confirm that."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Do you know if the Whispering way are active here?

SOLAR CE’NEA: I would also like to hunt down and find the Professors killer

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "I agree with that statement." says Johan. "The Whispering Way may have captured Roddyn Hawkran's soul. He was the warden and all that was stopping the haunts from taking over control of the prision. This why somehow be connected in some manner that escapes me."

DUNGEON MASTER: "I don't know," she replies to Solar. 

To Johan: "It may be, and then again, it may not--I have no evidence of their involvement here, besides the general stench of manipulation and destruction that follows them and many, many others."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Well thank you your Honour I think we have taken up enough of you time, unless my companions can think of anything else to ask, whe whould be on our way

DUNGEON MASTER: "Then you have my thanks, and I wish you good luck," she replies, showing the heroes out.

Carrion Crown Session 29

Session 29

It is nearly 11 at night, when the party trudges back up the path to the small camp by the side of the road.  Kaleb greets the party with a hopeful "Hallo?  How fared ye?"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan stands there with a solemn look on his face as they stand before the Crooked Kin. "I fear we bear some most unfortunate news about poor Aleece. We tracked her quite some distance into the surrounds which took us to the edge of a marsh lands." Johan takes a deep breath with a look of sadness in his eyes, "We entered the marsh before being attacked by what we identified as a phase spider which while we seriously injured it, it was able to vanish before we could get revenge against it for Aleece who fell to it's deadly bite. I am sorry for your lose."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan presents the sack to Kaleb, "We wanted her to have a proper burial." Johan carefully places the sack before Kaleb before standing back with his companions.

SOLAR CE’NEA: My Condolances Kaleb, we tried to get to Aleece as soon as we could but we were too late, we were lucky with four of us to be able to hold off the phase spider, poor Aleece was not so lucky.  It was a strong monster so I can honestly say She would not have suffered, it would have been a quick and clean death, that does not replace one as fair as her, but it is unfortuantely all we can offer you. I am so sorry.

GRUNDIG: Grundig offers a prairie to Abadr and conveys his sympathy’s.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Oh.. Sweet Pharasma, I knew something was terribly wrong... but this!" he gasps as Johan unveils the body.

Several other faces materialize in the semi-dark around the fire--her two sisters, the other "pinheads"; two multi-limbed midgets; the beareded woman; and the four armed princess.  There are tears and murmered oaths of disbelief.  At last, Kaleb's voice rises above the others.

"Aleece died as she lived, seeking the wonders of the open road.  We will bury her nearby, and commend her spirit to Desna in the morning.  In the meantime, I bid you all rest this night, and welcome our brave guests who sought her out in the treacherous swamp."

He ends with a grand gesture.  Aleece's fellow pinheads are overcome with grief and return to one of the wagons, but the others bid the party welcome and offer them their dinner of stew and roasted hare.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar walks around to the rest of the crowd and offers his condolences and and tries to offer comforting words to those most affected by the you ladies loss.  Solar also takes this time to casually check out the group to be sure they are what they claim to be (he alreadys suspects they are) but also on the look out for things that strike him as unusual for this eclectic group.  Percpetion 1d20+4=10

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar discovers nothing out of order.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan and Shadow quietly finish they stew meals before they prepare their bedrolls and winter blankets for the night ahead. Johan regards Kaleb after he had finishes comforting those in need. He whispers over the camp fire, "Where abouts are you heading too in the morning?"

GRUNDIG: grundig takes a small portion of the stew with a solas look on his face and offers his condolance to those that need it. grundig speeks to his companions that he will take first watch as usual.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Why, to Leipdstadt!  The Greatest Center of Knowledge and Learning in all Ustalav!"

DUNGEON MASTER: "And you folk?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar nods to Grundig in aggreement, and says he wll take his usual watch, Solar walks over to Kaleb to let him know that the Phase Spider has a mimicing skill and that is what is likely to have draw Aleece away.  Solar gentle suggests Kaleb let his troop know and that we will assist with the watch as the Spider can appear out of no-where.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan replies to Kaleb, "It would seem we are heading to the same destination then. I only hope the roads are free from trouble as we head further away from the town just past."

DUNGEON MASTER: [400 xp each]

DUNGEON MASTER: "As do I, my fellow travelers!  As do I!"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Total party xp to date 14036

DUNGEON MASTER: "We have but a day's journey left to us, would you care for our company to this road's end?"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "I am glad to hear it is a place of learning as two of my companions are keen researches and studies of lore that is quite beyond my understanding. I am a simple ranger more at home on the land rather then in confined libraries and studies."

DUNGEON MASTER: "I have a love of both, personally--as do many of my companions.  The road and a trunkfull of books!  Is there no greater pleasure in the world?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar hears the conversation, I agree my friend, there sights to be seen and knowledge to be learnt from different places, It makes the long road attractive to me also

GRUNDIG: books is not something that i am good with reading the land is more for me i have some understanding of magical simbols but for the most part i cannot read

SOLAR CE’NEA: [take 2 - current party xp is 144036 xp]

DUNGEON MASTER: "No shame in that my esteemed gnome!  Does not nature hold as much wisdom as all the libraries ever built?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Ahhh but an understanding of nature is knowledge itself, whether you read it in a book or experience it as the gods made it knowledge and lore is an understanding of withr the past present or possible future, Nature provides teaching of all three if you have your skills!

GRUNDIG: what nature dose not tell me is not worth knowing

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Myself and Grundig share your passion of the road however I think Kendra and Solar would share your love of knowledge. I do not see why we could not share the road, surely would would be safer in numbers." Johan turns to Mesodias and quietly asks, "Before we rest could you call apon Gorum's blessing to heal our injuries while facing the dangers of the marsh?"

Mesodias, while uninjured isn't bothered with a channel of positive healing burst. 2d6 = 7 hps healed

DUNGEON MASTER: [Watch order: grundig-johan-mesodias-solar.]

SOLAR CE’NEA: Percpetion 1d20+4=22

GRUNDIG: perception 1d20+11=31

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan Perception check: 1d20+9 = 11

Shadow Perception check: 1d20+5 = 25

Mesodias Perception check: 1d20+6 = 21

DUNGEON MASTER: This night too passes without incident. Morning dawns pink and gray against the cloudy skies.

The Crooked Kin conducts a brief ceremony for Aleece, burying her in the midst of a meadow filled with yellow flowers.  Several of their number sob as Kaeleb completes the service.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias under takes his morning ritual, waking with the sun before praying for his daily spells. Breaking for morning tea before doing several exercises and a light work out. When the party is ready to continue he prepares his heavy crossbow.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar tires to identify simple little thinks that help the morners, such as carrying things, setting thinks up for their cermemony, he simply ties to lessen burdens for the people of the camp

GRUNDIG: grundig listens to the ceremony with his head bowed in respect. then has a light breakfast before preparing for the days travels

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan tries to avoid getting involved in The Crooked Kin's ceremony, knowing when to keep a healthy distance especially in times of sorrow which he isn't all that comfortable with. He helps clean up the camp site fire with dirt before finishing his morning meal. He arms himself with his longbow before they are ready to set off.

SOLAR CE’NEA: As they are ready to go Solar prepares his weapons and heads out with his Crossbow in hand

DUNGEON MASTER: Soon the ceremony is complete and the group sets out on the road.  The traveling troupe travels at a pace approximately equal to what the party was making with their wagon. 

The heroes' wagon takes the lead, with the others following behind.  Most of the troupe rides in their own wagons, although a few--including the pinheads--choose to walk along outside.

DUNGEON MASTER: The remaining leg of their journey goes smoothly, and the land transitions from rocky hills to the soggy land of the Moutray River basin.  It is about evening when the troupe reaches the outskirts of the walled burg of Lepidstadt.

*** DUNGEON MASTER sent lepdistadtplayer.png,... ***

DUNGEON MASTER: There is an air of festivities about the place--people are heaving pints on street corners, and several women are dancing a raunchy jig in in a square near the outskirts, to the tune of several fiddles.

SOLAR CE’NEA: You shpould do well here Friend Kaleb, there seems to be a celebration in town, they should wlecome a troop of fine entertainers like yourself

DUNGEON MASTER: Kaleb immediately notes the bustle of activity, and loses no time in hurrying off into the crowd to mingle.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan regards the party in general, "What a plesent change of atmosphere to the last town we stopped at on our journey here."

GRUNDIG: grundig looks in awr at the city befor him "this is going to be interesting I hope i don't get into any troble

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Why would you get into trouble my friend?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar is curious to know what is going on so asks one of the passerbys who looks ameinable to talking, "what are the celebrations in aid of friend?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "The celebrations-hic!  Why, they've captured the terror of the countryside, they have!  He'll burn in a fourday!  Here have a toast with me, my good minstrel!"

GRUNDIG: "ho just something about me and citys its not the sarroundings im use to being in"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar joins in the clebrations (careful to not dirnk to much but look like he is partaking as much as the others in the brief time he is talking) The terror of the Countryside, sorry my friend we are new to town, who or what is the terror?

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: While Solar gathers information regarding the towns celebrations, he queries Kendra, "My lady where did you want us to unpack your belongings before we investigate what is going on in town? It seems quite a celebration is occurring? Perhaps another opprtunity to shake off the dust from the road and geta few cold drinks under our belt?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Ha!  What is the terror!  Come with me, good traveler and hear it from the voice 'o the city itself!"

He beckons Solar down the street to a public square where crier stands yelling the news to the entire burg:

"Burghers of Lepidstadt, rejoice! The Beast has been captured! Soon the abomination will be tried for crimes against the good people of Vieland. The Punishing Man now rises in the square outside the courthouse! The logs have been stacked against his flanks and the oil has seeped into his veins. The Punishing Man waits to take his passenger to the depths of Hell! And soon, he shall have his feast! ... Burghers of Lepidstadt, rejoice! The Beast has been captured!"

GRUNDIG: grundig lsitens intently to the speaker

SOLAR CE’NEA: "come my friend," Solar says to Grundig, "let us go back to the others and relay what is happening.  We must decide our next move".  With that Solar yells back to the person that gave him ythe inofmration, Rejoice friend we go to tell others the good news...fair the well!"

GRUNDIG: grundig asks where he can find the courthouse curious as to what this creature might be.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "What did you think about investigating this Beast once we have unpacked and perhaps make an evening of it to celebrate travelling without incident?"

DUNGEON MASTER: Kendra stares wide-eyed at the festivities.  "What?  Why, I have an address of one of father's friends--here.. the name of Adrissant--a Count, I think--has a house here in town that I may use for the time."

GRUNDIG: "yes thats fine with me"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Perhaps we could attend to what Kendra's needs to do first, then we could investigate the celebrations.  It appears nothing is to happen for four days.  plenty of time to get done what needs to be done and find out the finer details of what is happening around us.

SOLAR CE’NEA: but I am certainly ameinable to celebrating our journey with a drink tonight if Kendra is up to it

DUNGEON MASTER: Kaleb reappears from the throng to speak with the party.  "You have heard the news?  The beast!  I--am not so fond of mobs myself, but the thing certainly seems as guilty as the dark tyrant himself...  we will be off to the Inn, then, to our first appointment for the night.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Thanks you friend Kaleb, may your coffers flow over!  No doubt once we have finished our business, we will come and see you all perform again

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Forgive my ignorance but which inn might that be if there is infact more than one in town? We would like to catch up with you once we have had chance to attend some urgent business if you don't mind."

DUNGEON MASTER: "We stay in our wagons, out of habit, but we'll be performing this night at the Twisted Jack, uptown from the trade district."

SOLAR CE’NEA: I hope you have a bumper crowd! break a leg!

DUNGEON MASTER: Kaleb smiles at this farewell and the troupe disappears into the throng.

SOLAR CE’NEA: "Well my Lady, we are now completely at your beck and call, lead on fair lady"

DUNGEON MASTER: After asking a passerby, Kendra directs the party to a quieter, richer part of town where a large house overlooks a clean, well-lit street.  A butler and porter greet her knock, and soon her belongings are being carried inside.

"Mr... Ah, Count Adrissant is not here--he comes in only rarely..." she smiles a moment.  "Have you plans for your lodging?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Not yet my lady, we were waiting to see what you had intended to do

GRUNDIG: "we can make arrangements in due time knowing that you are safely delivered to your desternation."

DUNGEON MASTER: "Me? Well, I intend to stay here for the time--get my bearings, I suppose.  We have several free guest rooms here if you would like..."

SOLAR CE’NEA: We would be honoured my lady, perhaps after we are settled we could escort you to see some of the celebrations?

DUNGEON MASTER: "Why--tonight?  Yes, I suppose, why not?" she says with a slight blush.  Once her belongings have been unloaded, she disappears into her room for a time, and comes out an hour later wearing an elegant white dress, with her hair let down to her waist.

DUNGEON MASTER: [It's about 10pm.]

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: While Kendra is getting prepared for the nights entertainment Johan regards his companions, "Best we clean up and leave some of our weapons here? I'm not sure if the city guard will entertain us walking around in our full adventure gear?" What do you think?":

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar, looking forward to a night out with Kendra cleans the grime of the road off of himself and gets out his finest dress clothes that he brings whilst traveling and is eager for an enjoyable night after all the undead and mosterous beings they have encounters lately

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar agrees with Daniel.  however mentions that a long sword cleaned can look like a fine accessory for some clean clothes

GRUNDIG: grundig looks astonnished at the buety of kendra and says "my lady there are few i have seen that match the beauty of yourself standing before me for a human."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Well that is a relief, I feel naked without being armed as I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels this way." Johan will leave his backpack at the homested before heading into town.

SOLAR CE’NEA: My friend you are looking at beauty that goes beyound human, Miss Kendra is a beauty in any race and with that Solar offers his hand to to the elegant beauty to escort her into the town

DUNGEON MASTER: "Why thank you, Grundig," she says with a smile.

GRUNDIG: grundig cleans himself and puts on some fresh cloths and takes his quater staff as a walking stick and heads into town with the rest of the party.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias sighs as he unstraps his heavy mace and leaves his backpack in the room before cleaning up and washing away the dust from several days journey.

DUNGEON MASTER: Kendra takes Solar's hand and follows his lead into the city.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar has packed with him his two wands, and his mitheral +1 dagger, two alchemists fire and two Alchemist greases

DUNGEON MASTER: Kendra smiles politely as the intrepid heroes discuss how to spend the evening.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Let's check out the Ventriloquist's Pulpit before joining in the celebration for a few drinks at the place our Crooked Kin are at."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Sounds like a wonderful idea, My Lady are you interested in that

DUNGEON MASTER: "Why of course," she says smiling and the party climbs into the carriage which clops through the street toward the place chosen.

The Ventriloquist’s Pulpit proves to be a gothic style hall situated near the city's heart.  A small sign nearby indicates that the Ventriloquist’s Pulpit once served as the central hall and north wing of Mandaleat Court, seat of administration for Vieland’s former counts. During the hall’s demolition, workers discovered strange acoustic properties beneath the dome that caused their voices to echo back in unpredictably angelic or demonic tones. Charmed, the ruling council had the remaining structure preserved as a museum of local history and offices for councilors.

The lights are on in this building--apparently it is open to visitors late into the night.

SOLAR CE’NEA: My dear ldy would you like to go in, this seems like an intersting place to explore, even at this late hour!

DUNGEON MASTER: "I would be delighted," replies Kendra with a wide smile.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Gentlemen shall we?

GRUNDIG: gundig nods his approval.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan sutbly rolls his eyes so that Grundig can see, "What a perfect opportunity to delve into the cities history."

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar says yes you are so right...how wonderful (Solar completely misses the eye rolling in his excitment)

GRUNDIG: grundig smiels as he catches Johan rolling his eyes "lets hope they don't turn the lights out to soon"

DUNGEON MASTER: The party heads into the hall.  Numerous glass-cased exhibits line the walls, cordoned off by scarlet ropes.  Spiral stairs lead upward onto a pair of platforms situated under the dome.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar in his (misguided) belief that everyone is interested in this building and its histroy starts sprouting out every bit if knolwedge he knows about the building and its history

SOLAR CE’NEA: Knowledge histroy 1d20+11=28

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar although happy to pass on this information does make sure that only his companions can hear him

SOLAR CE’NEA: There is a sinster side to the story of this hall's preservation: some claim it wasn’tthe haunting echoes that preserved the old court, but rather the discovery of secret basement reeking of brimstone and adorned with trappings of Garundi mysticism.

In point of fact, this building was constructed well over four hundred years ago as part of an agreement between the city fathers and the more rustic locals.  The resulting building was used considered a common "meeting of cultures" between the refined urbanites and the superstitious locals

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Hmmm, a secret basement with arcane and mystical symbols that smells of evil, that sounds like an interesting place to explore."

GRUNDIG: grundig looks arround at the glass cases as he listens to Solar. "i think we could leave that for another night"

GRUNDIG: shell we go check out the crooked kin now as riverting as this is.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Fine!" Johan acts as if he is disappointed. "But the only time to explore evil secret basements is at night time, everyone knows that."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar tarts to realise that the rest are probably not as interested as he is in this facinating building, and says, yes my friends supporting the Crooked Kin would be  good idea

DUNGEON MASTER: The party heads out of the hall and back into the carriage, which plods through the street towards the Crooked Jack. 

Crowds mill around outside wielding peweter mugs filled to the brim with lager; within lies a crowded stage where the members of the Crooked Kin are performing.  At the moment, the Swarm of Clowns is on the stage, juggling away with a vengance.

GRUNDIG: grundig orders a drink a round of drinks  from the bar and hands them out to the rest of the party "now this is entertainment"

DUNGEON MASTER: Grundig comes out clutching a number of pint mugs nearly half his own height.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar sits down with Kendra content to enjoy the sights, and look around the inn

DUNGEON MASTER: After downing their drinks the party heads back to the townhouse.  Kendra smiles widely at Solar the whole way.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar suggests that maybe Kendra could sleep in the middle room between Johan and himself.  That way the wolf could be on Johans Balcony

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Yes I think that would be for the best. Not much will slip by Shadow including us keeping watch."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Did you think it worth setting up a simple alarm trap with some twine and bells for anyone opening the balcony doors without knowing of the bells?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar gives  Kendra his stone of alram for the nigth and gives her the instructions on how to use it

Carrion Crown Session 28

Session 28

DUNGEON MASTER: [GAME STARTS HERE]

DUNGEON MASTER:  The sun once again moves behind the Tusk Mountains, setting red behind the black stilhoutted peaks.  Dusk is settling as the party rounds a bend to discover a number of brightly painted wagons circled near the side of the road.

"Hallo?" hails a male voice calls through the semi-darkness.  "Aleece?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Hello dear Sir, no none of us is Aleece, I am Solar, and I and my companions wish you greating on this fine night

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Greetings, my name is Johan, a fellow traveller through this region. How goes you?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: May we approach you? Or would you rather us leave you to your own business

SOLAR CE’NEA: Percpetion 1d20+4 = 17  SOlar looks around to see if there is anyone trying to sneak up on the companions and what the reaction of the man (and anyone else might be)

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar notices nothing out of the ordinary, although the man's voice sounds anxious.

"What-yes, yes, come and have a seat near our fire... once it's lit.."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan looks to Grundig and whispers, "Without light we can't see much. Does it like safe, can you see woman and children?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: You seem troubled friend, is there something we could help you with?

GRUNDIG: perception 1d20+11=25 looking for any thing out of the ordenary are they looking for woman and children in the party or if there are only men dose do they look like entertainers.

GRUNDIG: grundig wispers to his companions "The man speaking is wearing a purple pin-striped suit with a tall purple hat.  He looks like an entertainer of some sort.  There are others moving around the campsite in the semi-dark."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan nods at Grundig's appraisal, "We accept your offer and hospitality to join you." Johan whispers, "Come on let's see what news they have and where they are travelling too."

GRUNDIG: grundig nods his aprovel and moves foward with the group

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar whispers to his companions Lets just make sure we don't get seperated and stay together.  With that he turns to Kendra, perhaps we should make ti look like you are one of our partners, just in case there are some in the group that want to do something Nefarious

DUNGEON MASTER: As the party approaches in the gloom, a lavender-clad man steps out to greet them.  "Hail, friends--wait, have I met you before on my journey?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Hail Kaleb, It is good to see you!

SOLAR CE’NEA: How goes it!

SOLAR CE’NEA: With that confident he is with friends Solar cast dancing Lights to help everyone see

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar's spell illuminates the entire campsite, which consists of four garishly painted wagons among which a number of people with phyiscal deformities are setting up camp. On the side of one of the wagons are painted a name: "The Crooked Kin".

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan recognises the purple coloured clothed man standing before them, offering an empty palm to shake with an open smile. "Well met once again, Johan is the name. Good to see you again, what brings you and your kin to this area?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Well, after we left--Ah, Ravengro, it was, we made our way northward, stopping now and then.  We had some... troubles in Tamrivena, and we thought it best to get out of there at once--and then Aleece... but you folk!  Welcome and come sit by our fire," he says gesturing grandly to the small pit where several midgits are setting about lighting kindling.

SOLAR CE’NEA: We also found the People of Tamrivena...less than gracious hosts.  It is good to see familiar faces.

SOLAR CE’NEA: We would love to sit at your fire. I hope you ahve been keeping well!

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar then introduces Grundig to Kaleb and recounts to Grundid the encounter with the flaming skulls where they first met Kaleb

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Ah yes, we were also met with hostility and turned away fro mthe gates by - less welcoming city guards - when we approached Tamrivena." Johan queitly queries Kaleb, "What of Aleece you mentioned before?"

GRUNDIG: grundig relaxes seeing that the others know the group and introduses himself. after which he says  "I ran into a bit of trouble passing through there myself."

DUNGEON MASTER: "Well, now that we come to it, I'm not so sure we are doing well--'tis a hard life, following the road from one great burg to another.  Just right now we seem to have lost one of our--ah, pinheads--Aleece is her name.."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Lost her, What do you mean by that?

GRUNDIG: "can we help look for her where was she last seen"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan nods at Grundig and Solar's questions, keen to help if possible before too much time has gone by.

DUNGEON MASTER: "Well, I mean she's gone out in the woods to savor the music of the wilderness, and she hasn't come back just yet.  Not that it's anything you really ought to concern yourselves with, fine folk as you are--unless, you say you're inclined to, master gnome?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: We could certainly all help look for you, we have a good mixture of skills in this group

GRUNDIG: knolage nature 1d20+9=25 checking to see what sort of creatuers habit this airea

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "I'm sure my companions and I won't mind finding your friend before she misses the nights supper."

DUNGEON MASTER: "You would!  Saviours and rescurers twice over, I say!" he replies enthusasitically.

Grundig knows that this region has woodsy hills and boggy swamps, replete with all of the typical creatures common to such enviorns.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Perhaps you could show us where she went and my learned friends could look for tracks

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan regards kendra, "My lady are you inclined to join us in our search for Aleece or would you prefer to stay with our companions by the fire?"

DUNGEON MASTER: "Why of course!  Of course!" he says, very much relieved.  Just over here--we saw her heading off into the wilds this away.  He gestures toward a small trail leading down into a boggy river valley.

DUNGEON MASTER: "I-well, whatever you think is best," replies Kendra.  "I would be happy to follow you... if you think the wagon is perfectly safe here?"

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "The wagon is safe with with our Crooked Kin. Let's head off and find Aleece with haste." Johan doesn't hesitate, quickly moving towards the track, taking lead as he kneels every now and then to observe where Aleece's footprints lead.

Survival check (track): 1d20+12 = 25

GRUNDIG: Grundig helps with the search for Aleese survival check 1d20+11=22

DUNGEON MASTER: As the party speaks with Kaleb, the sun sinks behind the mountains and the evening darkens.  The muffled sounds a pair of sobbing women come from a nearby trailer, accompanied by a huskier voice trying to soothe them.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar directs his dancing lights to help see easily the tracks

DUNGEON MASTER: [There is some moonlight and starlight; enough for Grundig to see 60']

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar also has his cross bow out ready

DUNGEON MASTER: With little trouble, Johan and Grudig locate tracks made by a pair of small, slippered feet--leading straight down the trail into the boggy valley.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias enchants the hilt of his greatsword with a light spell as they make their way along the path.

DUNGEON MASTER: The heroes do not lack for magical illumination as they plod down the increasingly muddy trail, there only company the midges and the crickets chirping in the night.

GRUNDIG: grundig keeps his eyes peeald for any sighn of danger.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "This is going to get messy but I'm sure we can clean up with magic once this is over." As Johan moves ahead he keeps his eye out for 'other' creatures tracks or any natural hazards like quicksand bog.

DUNGEON MASTER: The heroes travel downward for about a half hour, during which the sound of crickets increases and the midges swarm ever more mercilessly around their ears and noses. 

Abruptly, the track leads into a marshy bog where the reeds grow up to Johan's face and the water stands about ankle-deep.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan careful observes where the footprints or tracks leave, looking if they are footprints or drag marks leading into the boggy marsh.

Survival check (track): 1d20+12 = 30

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar just tries to help with the lighting and tries to keep Kendra warm and as dry as possible

DUNGEON MASTER: It is tough to see, but Johan's skilled eyes soon notice the reeds parted here and there, where someone has recently made there way through.  Whoever came this way wore a laced garmet, judging by the thread stuck on one of the plants.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan softly whispers to the party as he gestures to the reeds and footprints. "This doesn't look good, Aleece did not belong in a place like this. Not only did Aleece travel too far away from the camp but this is a perfect spot for swarms and other things to cause harm."

GRUNDIG: grundig checks to the sides and rear for any sighn of danger

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan sorts through the camp fire stories when he was a mere apprentice ranger about marsh creatures that could have taken Aleece without obvious sign of struggle.

Knowledge (nature): 1d20+7 = 16

DUNGEON MASTER: Grundig notices a number of midges, along with a great deal of mud and water skippers.

DUNGEON MASTER: Allowing that Aleece was no more than a circus entertainer, any number of things could have taken her unawares.

DUNGEON MASTER: (Johan astutely observes.)

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Solar can you send your lights out as far as they can in that direction."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar does as he is asked

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "We have a difficult decision to make, if Aleece went into the marsh alone she is not coming back unless we go in right now and even then it may be too late. And going into the marsh will be very difficult for those not strong swimmers."

GRUNDIG: grundig wispers to the party that he is going to go for a scout and listen for his call and then transforms into a owl

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar says, I don't think we should abandon this now, we have come this far, we should continue

GRUNDIG: grundig takes to the air following the parting reeds survival 1d20+11=28

GRUNDIG: looking for sighns of aleece

GRUNDIG: perception 1d20+11=32

DUNGEON MASTER: Grundig follows the tracks forward for about 100 feet, where the tracks end in a cramped clearing filled with dismal-looking gray flowers.

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar's dancing lights follow the owl up to the clearing.

GRUNDIG: grundig looks for the reason the trail ends eg sighnes of drag marks desturbed ground. survival 1d20+11=24

GRUNDIG: whilst I circel arround the grey flowers

DUNGEON MASTER: Gruding circles the clearing at 30', trying to discern what became of the person who made the tracks.  Unfortunately, he is able to discover nothing--the tracks seem to end shortly after entering the clearing.

Suddenly, some distance to the north of the clearing, a sobbing, feminine shriek sounds in the night.  It somewhat resembles the voice of the woman sobbing in the circus wagon back at the campsite.

GRUNDIG: grundig looks colser at the gray flowers knowledge nature 1d20+9=10

DUNGEON MASTER: Grudig discerns that the flowers are gray.

GRUNDIG: grundig turns and flyes towards the screem  riseing to 50ft

GRUNDIG: before grundig flys off he drops a turd and casts light as it falls out of the sky

DUNGEON MASTER: Gruding remembers that he can not cast spells while shifted, though he does manage to hit a flower with his turd. 

He then flies northward while the party waits back at the edge of the marsh.  After flying north for about 150', he still has discovered nothing.

At that moment a second scream sounds out, very close to the place where the party stands on the shore.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan scratches his head as a sign of impatience as he waits for Grundig's return. "What the hell is going on out there? This is killing me not knowing."

GRUNDIG: Grundig turns arround and heads back towards the scream.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar is confused, he thinks something is playing with them.   thinks a  creatures that can do ventriloquist tricks or can mimic sounds is trying to confuse them, and says so to his companions.

SOLAR CE’NEA: " I think the best thing to do is follow the physical signs and not worry about the sounds

SOLAR CE’NEA: I thikn this becasue there is only one girl missing and she can't move that fast

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan takes a deep breath, not knowing what it could be and fighting his instinct to help for woman. "Something doesn't seem right about this. Where the hell is Grundig, I hope nothing has happened to him."

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar says  I think we should head into the swamp and continue to follwo the physical signs and the scream, if they correspond.  However I don't think we should split up any mroe than we have

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Ok let's stay together. I'll try and follow the tracks into the march." Johan enters the marsh, following the tracks and keeping an eye out for natural hazards.

Surivival check: 1d20+12 = 26

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar is looking around for any possible threats or movements of the reads perception 1d20+4=22

DUNGEON MASTER: The party heads north, following the tracks toward the scream.

Meanwhile, in another part of the marsh, Grudig wheels and flys southward as fast as he is able.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan perception: 1d20+9 = 22

Mesodias Perception check: 1d20+6 = 10

Shadow Splatterface (wolf) Perception check: 1d20+5 = 16

*** DUNGEON MASTER sent Untitled picture.png,... ***

DUNGEON MASTER: Quite suddenly and abruptly, the a form materializes in front of Solar.  A horrid spider, with the face of a human, reaches out and bites at the sorcerer.

[Solar takes 14 damage.  DC 18 Fort save please.]

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan Initiative check: 1d20+4 = 15

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar fort save 1d20+3=20

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias Intiative check: 1d20+4 = 14

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar Initiative 1d20+7=19

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar Knowledge check to figure out what this thing is 1d20+1

SOLAR CE’NEA: try 1d20+13=27

DUNGEON MASTER: [Initiative order is: Spiderthing, Solar, Johan, Mesodias.]

DUNGEON MASTER: Instantly, the spider lashes out again, striking Solar with its horrid, fanged mouth.  [10 damage and another fort save please.]

The spider then disapppears, fading out of sight as if it were turning invisible.

[Solar's turn.]

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar quickly realizes that this is a phase spider--a nasty creature that can ambush, deliver a poisoned bite, and dissappear in the blink of an eye.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar readies his ear piercing scream to attack when the spider reappears

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar yells out what it is and what it can do

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Where the hell did it go? Stand in between Mesodias and I!"

Johan's eye open wide in horror as Solar's dancing lights illuminate a hiddeous combination of spider and man. Johan quickdraws his magical longsword and grips it above his head as he stands ready for the creature to reappear and attack.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias casts Cure Moderate Wounds on Solar after watching the phase spider make a masty strike at him. Convert Weapon of Awe into Cure Mod Wounds.

CMW: 2d8+4 = 13

Mesodias draws his heavy mace from his shoulders as he looks about for the beast to reappear.

GRUNDIG: initiaive 1d20+4=13

DUNGEON MASTER: The phase spider materiazes beside Johan. [Provoking an AOO.]

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: To Hit (longsword): 1d20+9 = 25

Damage (longsword): 1d8+7 = 10

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan's readied attack slices through the beast's hairy skin.

SOLAR CE’NEA:  Ear-Piercing Scream

 2d6=10  and dazed for one round 

DC14 Fort save means not Dazed and only half damage.

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar's attack hits the creature with full force--blood streams out of its eye sockets and nose, and it stands there dazed for a brief moment.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar cast flaming sphere at the Phase spider 3d6 points =

Can Move 30 feet in a round

SOLAR CE’NEA: damage 15  -Reflex save for half

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Solar swings his heavy mace at the phase spider, his mace glowing in grey flame (distructive smite).

To Hit (heavy mace): 1d20+8 = 22

Damage (heavy mace): 1d8+7+2 = 11

DUNGEON MASTER: [Mesodias, not solar.  Also, Johan should act first.  And shadow.]

DUNGEON MASTER: Mesodias' blow strikes the thing hard on the leg.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Kendra cast cplor spray at the spider

DUNGEON MASTER: The thing dodges aside as Solar's burning sphere drops out of the sky, buring the beast's nasty hairy body somewhat.

DUNGEON MASTER: Kendra's spell lights up the night, but the phase spider merely ducks its head as the dazzling colors wash over it.

GRUNDIG: Grundig surveys the situation seeing that solar is injured he lands behind him and changes back to a gnome.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan lashes out against the phase spider while it was visable.

To Hit (longsword): 1d20+9 = 23

Damage (longsword): 1d8+7 = 11

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan's strike smacks hard into the beast's body, doing terrible damage to its already bloodied belly.  It is looking very badly off indeed--it screams now, not with the voice of Aleece but with the voice of an unearthly creature facing its death.

DUNGEON MASTER: As suddenly as before, it vanishes from sight.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar readies another another Ear piercing Scream for when the Spider reapears

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan readies an attack action, with longsword held above his head for when the spider appears.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias readies an attack action for when the phase spider reappears.

GRUNDIG: grundig pulls out his qualter staff and gets ready to strike out

DUNGEON MASTER: The party stands at ready for about a minute, during which time nothing happens.  The only sounds are the crickets screeching and the heroes' laboured breathing.

DUNGEON MASTER: [Off rounds.]

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar says...well...we look a little silly don't we, I think we hurt it sufficinetly for it to go.  I suggest we continue to follw and look for Aleeece but I don't hold high hopes for her.  If the Phase Spide was invovled, she is likely passed

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Mesodias lowers his weapon, but only to convert Protection from Evil into Cure Light Wounds for Solar.

CLW: 1d8+4 = 7 hp

GRUNDIG: “What the hell was that?”

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Can phase spiders imitate voices? And Grundig did you see any signs of Allece during your scouting?"

GRUNDIG: Grundig relays what he saw during his flight and where the tracks disapear

SOLAR CE’NEA: Yes, I should have twigged to that earlier, they do use voices to lure people to their death.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar thanks Mesodias for his healing!

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan sighs, "What do we think about following the tracks to at least find Aleece and bring her back for a burial? I hope that sneaky bastard doesn't show itself again in the mean while?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: I agree!

SOLAR CE’NEA: There souldn't be many other preditors with a phase Spider around!

GRUNDIG: "I think that would be for the best."

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Stay close, if it shows itself we may only get once chance to strike at it before it disappears."

Survival check (track): 1d20+12 = 28

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar starts looking around for other victims of the Spider and signs of Aleece Perception 1d20+4=20

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan leads the heroes north into the same clearing, where broad leafy plants grow clad with gray colored flowers.

DUNGEON MASTER: The footprints go into the clearing, but they do not come out.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan searches the clearing for any place the spider could have hidden the body.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan moves forward into the clearing, searching for Aleece.

Perception check: 1d20+9 = 27

GRUNDIG: grundig checks the ground where the tracks end prodding it with his quater staff

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan discovers the body of a small woman hidden beneath a layer of flowers and reeds.  It appears she suffered from microcephaly.

While he is searching, Johan also discovers a potion of fox’s cunning, a magnifying glasswith a gold handle, a small wooden box containing a set of brass weights, a walnut traveling case with a pair of superior locks and their keys sealed in wax, and a jar of pickled garlic cloves among the unsettling skeletal body parts surrounding Aleece's corpse.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan shakes his head when he finds Aleece's body and remains. "Damn it that bastard spider got her. The least we can do is take her and her possessions back for a proper burial away from this place."

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar cast detect magic on the items found

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar discovers no unexpected sources of magic.

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOlar looks at the box with the brass weights and the magnifiing glass

SOLAR CE’NEA: Percpetion check 1d20+4=20

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan careful places Aleece's remains into his sack without disturbing what is left over as much as possible. He then stands guard to his companions while they inspect the items of interest.

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar discovers nothing unexpected about the magnifying glass, the box, or the weights.

DUNGEON MASTER: However, the box does seem somewhat heavier than one might expect an item of its size to be.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar investigates for a secret compartment or to see if the box is truely wood and nothing something

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "What is it with the items? Are they magical or special in use?"

SOLAR CE’NEA: Percpetion 1d20+4=24

DUNGEON MASTER: Solar discovers no secret compartments.  It appears to be made of solid wood.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar gives it the box to johan and says I think there is something wrong here, it is much heavier than it should be, can you take a look at it

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan inspects it with the magnifying glass for any hint of a secret compartment.

Perception check: 1d20+9 = 21

DUNGEON MASTER: Johan discovers no secret compartments.  The box certainly does seem to have a bit too much heft, though--more than one might expect judging by its size.

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan hands the bx to Grundig before standing watch.

GRUNDIG: can i take a look perception 1d20+11=23

SOLAR CE’NEA: Perhaps we should look at it in the morning in better light, Lets head back with the girls body

SOLAR CE’NEA: the caravan will be getting worried

GRUNDIG: yes lets not spend any more time than we have to out here

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: "Fine, the sooner we leave this place the better. When we get back to the caravan site we need multiple sentries, both us and them with this troublesome spider in the area."

SOLAR CE’NEA: SOalr will take the magnifying glass

GRUNDIG: grundig puts the fox cunning potion.

SOLAR CE’NEA: Solar will take a small wooden box containing a set of brass weights

JOHAN D’ALMENTA: Johan collects the walnut traveling case with a pair of superior locks and their keys sealed in wax, and a jar of pickled garlic cloves before the leave.

DUNGEON MASTER: The party marches back out of the horrid little marsh, bearing both the body and their pilfered goods.