2. Phandalin

Apr 20, 2026 11:03 pm

Redhawk has never seen so many buildings in one place. "This place is huge. I have never seen so many buildings."He has never been to inn. There is no inn at Raventree there are never travelers who come to stay because they are self sufficient. "I have never been to an inn. I would like to see this Stonehill Inn"

Apr 21, 2026 1:16 am

"I'm with Redhawk; it's been aaaaages since I've been to town. Might as well sample the local fare!" Boggart says, and stretches as he walks. Plant life seems more vibrant where he steps and a couple of white butterflies flutter around him. "I've got a good feeling about this place." he says.

Apr 22, 2026 5:43 am

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy was not a happy young man. A simple guard run, they said. Just walk next to the wagon to Phandalin, they said. Easy money, they said. What balderdash and poppycock! First the ambush, then the wolves, then skulking around a goblin cave, and finally that hideous bugbear! At this, Alex shudders in reminiscence. The jittering sets off a pleasant jingly counterpoint to his macabre musings. Well, in fairness, I did receive reasonable recompense, he continues, thinking of the bright yellow shine of the Waterdhavian dragons with which he was paid. For that matter, I also did get an up-close-and-personal tutorial on the art of striking from the shadows, he muses. Leveraging an opponents distraction proved to be a real lifesaver in that cave!.

Continuing into Phandalin, Alex ask Sildar, Master Sildar, being this is my first sojourn to this fine town, would you kindly inform me as to the location of both the local weaponsmith and possibly an appraiser of fine jewelry?

OOC:

Does Alex recognize the coster logo? Lore check? If he does, he will seek out their representative. Otherwise he is going to have to ask around.

Avraham sent a note to htech

Last edited April 22, 2026 4:55 pm

Apr 22, 2026 10:50 am

"Spending some time in the local Inn is a good idea. I certainly need the rest." approves Igrem, reassured by the existence of some kind of civilization in these wild parts. He figures he will have time to study as well, as some new understanding of the magical matters is forming in his mind.

Apr 23, 2026 9:00 am

Sildar leads the way, guiding you up the gentle rise toward the heart of the settlement. Ahead, a sturdy structure of fieldstone and timber comes into view—the Stonehill Inn. Warm light spills from its windows, and the muted murmur of voices promises rest, food, and perhaps a measure of safety after the cave's dangers.

Alex says:

Master Sildar, being this is my first sojourn to this fine town, would you kindly inform me as to the location of both the local weaponsmith and possibly an appraiser of fine jewelry?

"Sure. Let me just eat and drink something and I can show you around." - He answers

As you approach, Alex’s attention is caught by something just off the main path—a modest wooden trading post bearing a sign. Painted upon it, though weathered, is a clear and deliberate image: a silver lion rearing proudly against a blue field.

Recognition comes easily. The mark of the Lionshield Coster that you found in those goods.

OOC:

What do you do?

Meanwhile, Sildar enters the Inn. Inside, the common room is lively but not rowdy. A handful of rough wooden tables are scattered across the floor, most occupied by miners, farmers, and a few road-worn travelers. A couple of locals glance up as you enter—measuring, curious—but their attention soon drifts back to their drinks.

Near the hearth, an older farmer sits hunched over his drink, his weathered face lined from years in the fields. Not far from him, a miner—broad-shouldered and dust-stained—leans back in his chair, boots stretched out.

Behind the bar moves a lively young barmaid, quick with her hands and quicker with her eyes. She drifts easily between tables, catching scraps of conversation as she delivers drinks, clearly the sort who knows everyone’s business whether they intend her to or not.

At one of the sturdier tables sits an old weaver, her posture attentive as she quietly observes the room. There’s a sense that little escapes her notice.

Behind a sturdy counter stands the proprietor, a young human man with a friendly, open face and an easy posture. He is pouring drinks and exchanging quiet words with patrons. His eyes flick toward you as you enter, and he offers a small, welcoming nod.

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 23, 2026 10:03 am

Redhawk will move to the counter"Well met good sir. I will have a glass of mead if you have some." Looking around"Nice place you have here."

Apr 24, 2026 12:09 am

The man offers an easy, genuine smile.

"Well met, friend," he replies, voice warm and welcoming. "A fine choice." He turns briefly, reaching beneath the counter before producing a clay bottle and a clean mug. With a practiced hand, he pours a golden stream of mead before sliding the drink across the bar.

"We don’t get as many travelers as we used to," he continues, leaning lightly against the counter, "so it’s always good to see new faces."

"Name’s Toblen Stonehill, from Triboar. My wife and I run the place. If you’re looking for a meal or a room, you’ve come to the right spot—simple fare, but honest."

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 24, 2026 1:18 am

"Thank you Master Stonehill. What is on the menu? Do you have any venison?" as he picks up his cup of mead and takes a sip."Very good. They honey is just right."

Apr 24, 2026 4:25 am

Alex turns to Igrem and says "Do you see that shield, azure, a lion rampant argent? That's the same symbol that was painted on all those boxes back at the goblin cave. They must be the owners. Perhaps there is a reward for information on the missing shipment? I'm going to go in and see for myself. Do you want to come with me or head straight for the inn with Master Sildar?

Apr 25, 2026 11:47 am

Avraham says:

Alex turns to Igrem and says (...)

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

Meanwhile

mathias0077 says:

"Thank you Master Stonehill. What is on the menu? Do you have any venison?" as he picks up his cup of mead and takes a sip."Very good. They honey is just right."

Toblen chuckles softly at the compliment, clearly pleased, and gives a small appreciative nod. "Glad you like it—local honey. Makes all the difference."

At the mention of venison, his expression turns just slightly apologetic. He rubs the back of his neck before answering.

"Ah… I’m afraid not. No venison, and no boar either, unfortunately." He gestures vaguely toward the kitchen.
"Had some fine sheep meat not long ago—brought in for the Spring Equinox. Sold through it quicker than I expected." He gives a small shrug. "Might have more in a few days, if the right folk come through with supply."

Then his eyes flick back to Redhawk with a hint of interest.

"Course… if you’re the hunting sort," he adds, "I’d be more than happy to buy what you bring in. Fresh game’s hard to come by these days, and I pay fair coin for good meat."

OOC:

Boggart, Redhawk, what do you do?

Apr 25, 2026 1:10 pm

Redhawk will nod "I will take a bowl of whatever stew you have."He will then look to Sildar"How long will we be in town? Master Stonehill asked if I could do some hunting for him,"

Last edited April 25, 2026 8:49 pm

Apr 25, 2026 7:11 pm

Avraham says:

"Sure, I will go with you. That might prove to be an interesting conversation." answers Igrem, always kin to follow his friend.

Apr 26, 2026 12:52 am

Redhawk says:

"How long will we be in town? Master Stonehill asked if I could do some hunting for him,"

"A few days, at the very least. I have to rest, restock and search Phandalin for signs of Iarno Albrek before we leave to search for Gundren."

OOC:

Redhawk, Boggart, what do you do?

Alex, Igrem, the Lionshield Coster trading post is orderly, almost to a fault. Shelves line the walls, stocked with goods—coils of rope, iron pots, bundles of cloth, and neatly arranged tools. Crates sit stacked in careful rows, each marked and sealed with the blue shield and white lion, though a few gaps here and there suggest inventory that never arrived.

Behind a sturdy counter stands a woman in her mid-thirties, her posture straight and her expression sharp. Her eyes flick up the moment the door opens, assessing, measuring. She sets down the ledger she’d been reviewing, one hand resting lightly on the counter.

"You’re not locals," she says plainly, her tone direct. "Which means you’re either here to buy… or you’ve got business worth my time. Welcome! Which is it?"

OOC:

Alex, Igrem, what do you do?

Apr 26, 2026 2:23 am

Alex enters the building and gazes around. As much as I need the money, the goods are theirs. It would be beneath me to extort the coster. Oh well, ‘tis better for my soul it is. Alex then whispers a prayer to his patron oh lady of the glittering dice, I go to boldly return these goods to their owners; a touch of your grace in making a good impression upon them would be most appreciated,
Alex walks swiftly and confidently up to the counter and bows lightly from the waist. Greetings, mistress, and luck be with you on this fine day. As you have so astutely surmised, we are newcomers to this fine town. While the journey here was mostly pleasant, we did have a little, contretemps shall we say, with a most annoying band of goblinoid raiders who had the sheer gall to abduct our own patron! In the process of dispatching these heinous kidnappers and their nefarious bugbear leader, we did stumble across their cache of ill-gotten goods, amongst which were strewn a host of boxes and containers all bearing the noble mark of your fine establishment Now, perhaps some less fine and more mercenary creatures would stoop to crass means of extortion to benefit from your apparent discomfort. But not I, Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy!

Alex then proceeds to describe the cave’s location, the location of the stash within the cave, and the political structure of the new goblin queen and her court, or should it be harem. While forthright, he does slightly play up the danger that his party went through in order to bring this news to the coster, in hope of some form of voluntary offer of a finders fee [Influence Roll]. If he gets nothing, so be it. He will have done a good deed.

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+4, RA)

(12) + 4 = 16

Apr 26, 2026 9:26 am

Alex and Igrem
Linene Graywind listens without interruption.

At first, her expression is guarded—arms loosely folded, eyes narrowed slightly as Alex launches into his elaborate account. But as he continues—mentioning the crates, the markings, the location—her posture shifts. The sharp skepticism gives way to something more focused… and interested.

By the time he finishes, she’s no longer leaning back. Instead, both hands rest flat on the counter, her gaze fixed squarely on him.

"You found them!" she says, not quite a question.

A brief pause follows as she studies his face, weighing tone against detail, confidence against embellishment.

"So… If what you’re telling me is true," she continues, her voice firm and businesslike again, "then you’ve done me—and the Lionshield—a considerable service. That caravan was overdue. I figured bandits, but goblins…"

She shakes her head slightly.

"I’ll pay you fifty gold for the information—once it’s confirmed by an independent adventurer that brings my goods back" she says plainly. "Fair coin for a lead like that."

She straightens, already shifting into logistics.

"But if you bring them here, intact, I’ll make it worth your while beyond the 50 gold. I can offer you a horse… or, if you’ve more to haul, a wagon with a mule to pull it."

OOC:

Your current wagon is full of goods and owned by Barthen's. She is offering your own horse (just 1 though) or wagon.

That's worth:
Horse, draft 50gp
Wagon 35gp
Mule 8gp

What do you do?

Apr 26, 2026 11:59 am

Redhawk will look to master Stonehill"Seems we will be in town for a few days so I would be happy to do some hunting for you. I feel a bit pent up in town."

Apr 26, 2026 4:09 pm

OOC:

How much time would it take for Alex, and whomever else wants to come, to return to the cave and load the goods?

That is a most generous offer, ma'am. Would you please forgive me a moment whilst I confer with my esteemed colleague? Alex turns to Igrem and asks quietly, Igrem, my friend, do you think that Queen Nott would let us take the goods, or should we allow the coster to assume that risk? Alex himself thinks back over the situation, considering that perhaps the Queen and her court would be too…involved…in other matters to notice.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Apr 26, 2026 7:00 pm

OOC:

Quote:

How much time would it take for Alex, and whomever else wants to come, to return to the cave and load the goods?

The cave is about 18-20 miles from Phandalin. That's less than a day of travel (assume 3 mph for your characters)

htech sent a note to Avraham

Apr 27, 2026 9:07 am

Avraham says:

Alex turns to Igrem and asks quietly, Igrem, my friend, do you think that Queen Nott would let us take the goods, or should we allow the coster to assume that risk? Alex himself thinks back over the situation, considering that perhaps the Queen and her court would be too…involved…in other matters to notice.

"I think that could work, but that might take some persuasion. I still don't know how much we can trust that goblin band as a whole, regardless of the new Queen. We don't even know how much influence she has over the others yet." He ponders for a while. "Let's try it. We should bring the others with us, for additional muscle, though."

It is still obvious in his behavior that the mage does not completely trust the goblins still.

Apr 27, 2026 9:10 am

Pinging Boggart @Gremlin

Apr 27, 2026 2:24 pm

"Sounds like a plan, friend Igrem", Alex replies. Turning back to the proprietress, Alex responds "Lady Graywind, your suggestions hold great merit, and it would be both foolish and condescending of me to to decide for my fellows without their input. May I prevail upon your patience as I rush to the Stonehill, inform them of their options, and return posthaste with our collective decision?

Last edited April 27, 2026 11:10 pm

Apr 27, 2026 8:07 pm

htech says:

Pinging Boggart @Gremlin

OOC:

My apologies, I've been struggling to think of something to do in this scene.

Boggart seems lost in his own world, humming a tune to himself next to Redhawk, legs dangling from the bar stool. It takes him a while to notice that the mug of ale that he didn't remember ordering had appeared in front of him.

"Ah, Golden Brown!" He says, tipping the mug back and gulping down the frothy brew. He doesn't seem to notice the resulting 'stache of suds as he turns to Redhawk. "So, my friend, what do you make of our new acquaintances?"

Apr 28, 2026 8:45 am

OOC:

htech sent a note to Gremlin

Linene listens as Alex makes his request. At his courteous appeal, she gives a short nod.

"That’s fine," she says. "Go speak with them. And if you decide it’s not for you, I’ll find another group willing to take the job and pay you your 50gp reward. Happens often enough.You brought me the lead first, though. That earns you the chance."

Outside, the door closes behind Igrem and Alex with a soft thud. Soon enough, you make your way back toward the Stonehill Inn. Whatever decision awaits, the rest of your companions are just inside.

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 28, 2026 8:56 am

Redhawk says:

"Seems we will be in town for a few days so I would be happy to do some hunting for you. I feel a bit pent up in town."

"Thank you!" says the proprietor. "Any meat will be welcome and well paid, but don't feel obligated to bring me anything."

Boggart says:

So, my friend, what do you make of our new acquaintances

OOC:

Redhawk, what do you say?

After Redhawk answers but before Boggart can continue their conversation, Alex and Igrem arrived.

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 28, 2026 1:39 pm

As Alex enters the Stonehill, he excitedly scans for his companions. Catching sight of them, he quickly rushes over and, somewhat breathlessly, describes the encounter at the coster and finishing with the mistresses two choices. Looking at Igrem and his new friends, Redhawk and Boggart, he finishes Well, folks, what should we do? The wagon and mule option sounds as if it would be rather helpful but perhaps we should not risk a fight with Queen Nott and her harem who may have decided those goods are theirs? Let the coster assume that risk and just split the fifty gold between us?", Looking at Sildar he continues, This will also take a day or two which may interfere with good Master Sildar's plans. What say you all?

Apr 28, 2026 5:07 pm

"You spent the most time there, friends. You should be the ones to tell us if they are likely to answer our request favorably." adds Igrem.

Apr 28, 2026 9:04 pm

Redhawk will look to Boggart "They seem like they no what they are doing and are good in jam. I think we got lucky to fall in with them"

Last edited April 28, 2026 9:04 pm

Apr 29, 2026 3:50 am

Boggart was just listening to Redhawk's response when Alexander and Igrem return. "My vote is to go see our goblin friends! They're an agreeable sort, and were nice enough to treat us as guests. There's no way that they won't return the goods if we ask nicely," Boggart grins. He turns to Redhawk: "You're right, we did get lucky to fall in with these two."

Apr 29, 2026 8:57 am

The rest of the day passes without incident.

You eat, drink, and allow the tension of the road and the cave to finally ease from your shoulders. The Stonehill Inn is simple, but clean and safe.

As evening comes, arrangements are made. Toblen provides modest but comfortable rooms for the party and Sildar, and for the first time in days, you find yourselves with proper beds, a roof overhead, and no immediate threat. Wounds are tended, gear is checked, mana is restored.

You take a Safe Rest.

Morning comes gently. You gather your belongings, share a meal, and make your preparations.

Ahead lies a return to the cave—not as desperate intruders and saviors this time, but as negotiators… or something close to it. Whether Nott, the Queen, proves as agreeable as Boggart believes remains to be seen.

OOC:

Redhawk, you will lead. Roll a Naturecraft check, DC 8, to guide the group through the woods.

Who will stay alert and keep watch while Redhawk leads the way? Roll a Perception check.

The others can do something during the journey and/or help the guide or the lookout. What do you do?

Rolls

Random encounters - (1d6, 1d6, RA)

Secret Roll

Apr 29, 2026 9:54 am

Igrem agrees to stay alert, which is in his nature anyway. He follows his friend Alex conscientiously.

Rolls

Perception roll - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Apr 29, 2026 9:59 am

OOC:

I volunteer for perception duty.

Rolls

Perception check - (1d20+7)

(5) + 7 = 12

Apr 29, 2026 10:24 am

As they set out in the Redhawk with his trusty bow in hand will guide the party back to the goblin cave.

Rolls

Naturecraft - (1d20+5, RA)

(1) + 5 = 6

Apr 29, 2026 10:26 am

As they set out in the Redhawk with his trusty bow in hand will guide the party back to the goblin cave. But for some reason, maybe it was the time spent underground he seems to get turned around.

OOC:

Nat one! Really?

Apr 29, 2026 2:45 pm

Alex walks along nonchalantly with his party, basically at rest but pausing every now and then to listen carefully for any changes to the normal background music of a Sword Coast forest.

Apr 29, 2026 9:45 pm

Redhawk takes the lead, bow in hand. At first, the trail seems familiar enough. The Triboar Trail is not hard to follow. But as you leave the trail towards the cave and the hours stretch on, something feels… off.

The trees grow denser. The underbrush thicker. Landmarks that should be there… aren’t. Redhawk slows. Pauses. Adjusts course.

Then pauses again.

What should have been a straightforward return begins to twist into uncertainty.

You are no longer entirely sure where you are.

OOC:

You are somewhere north of the Triboar Trail, south of Neverwinter Woods and east of the High Road.

By midday, you pick up tracks—goblin, by the look of them. Small, clawed footprints pressed into softer earth, running between the trees.

A promising sign.

Redhawk follows them carefully, the group moving more cautiously now. The trail leads into a narrow stretch between tangled brush and low-hanging branches, the ground uneven but passable.

Then—

"Wait!"

Boggart’s voice cuts in, sharp and urgent. Just ahead, partially concealed beneath loose dirt and leaves, a crude snare lies ready—rope looped and tethered to a bent sapling, positioned perfectly to yank its victim upward or worse.

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 29, 2026 10:16 pm

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy, once again, was unhappy. What should have been a short trip through the woods had gone awry. and we are led by a "woodsman" no less, he thinks sarcastically. This never would have happened if Nelly were here! Hearing Boggart's cry, he stops in his tracks and then slowly moves to the front. "Keep it down, gentlemen, there ARE goblins about", he whispers. Peering more closely at the snare, he whispers to Boggart, "I know my way around a trap or two, but I am more than happy to defer to our woodsman's expertise, should he desire", he says looking pointedly at Redhawk.

OOC:

Party Clarification: Alex is young, immature, and has, perhaps, more self-confidence than is warranted. His slicing and dicing of the goblins into fricassee in the cave only fed his ego. He isn't angry at Redhawk nor is he trying to goad Redhawk into a response. He's just a full-of-himself teenager (maybe early 20s) who thinks he can do better. And to be fair, in matters of finesse, Alex is rather talented. :)

DM question: I presume we told Madam Graywind of our decisions and that Sildar is waiting patiently for us at the inn?

Apr 29, 2026 11:55 pm

OOC:

Quote:

DM question: I presume we told Madam Graywind of our decisions and that Sildar is waiting patiently for us at the inn?

You presume correctly, as usual. =)

Apr 30, 2026 12:39 am

Redhawk will look at Alex with a smile and whisper"Be my guest."

Apr 30, 2026 3:31 am

Very well then, Alex whispers in response. Boggart, my good gnome, please step back just in case I have a mishap. Alex spends a bit of time looking over the trap.

OOC:

I’m on my phone and not sure what the policy is about taking extra time for skill checks in Nimble. Just in case, I’m going to examine the trap first. Please let me know if it provides advantage on the finesse check or changes the DC of the trap.

Edit. That examination check was an 11. Cheat ability.

[ +- ] Cheat

Last edited April 30, 2026 3:32 am

Rolls

Examination - (1d20+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Trap examination cheat ability. - (11)

() + 11 = 11

Apr 30, 2026 8:49 am

Boggart readily believes in the efficacy of his fellow adventurer and steps back to Redhawk and Igrem. "Now there's a man who knows what he's doing!" He whispers to his companions while he watches intently.

Last edited April 30, 2026 8:50 am

Apr 30, 2026 9:01 am

It becomes increasingly clear to Redhawk and Igrem that Alex is… not entirely certain how this mechanism actually functions.

He reaches toward the wrong section first—hovering near the loop rather than the trigger—then hesitates. His hand shifts. Then shifts again.

A bead of tension forms in the silence. Alex subtly adjusts his grip on his dagger, angling it downward as if to prod the mechanism free…

…but instead, the blade slips.

Luckily, the dagger tip wedges perfectly into a narrow split in the wooden trigger peg—something even the goblins likely didn’t intend. As Alex cheats, he presses down just so—

CRACK.

The peg snaps.

The tension releases all at once with a sharp whip as the sapling jerks upright—but without the trigger intact, the loop collapses harmlessly to the ground instead of tightening. The trap is now disarmed.

OOC:

What do you do?

Apr 30, 2026 2:12 pm

Redhawk will clap Alen on the shoulder "Good show Alex, a little shaky to start but you figured it out." He look to the group"Shall we continue? Eyes open." Redhawk will continue to follow the tracks with eyes peeled for more snares or possible pits.

OOC:

Tracker’s Intuition
You can discern the events of a past encounter by studying tracks and
other subtle environmental clues, accurately determining the kind and amount of creatures,
their direction, key actions, and passage of time.

Apr 30, 2026 2:29 pm

"I meant to do that, yes I did, that's right." Alex says shakily—forgetting about stealth with the trap's racket—as he sheathes his dagger and pulls out a handkerchief to mop his brow, realizing just how close he came to not only making a fool out of himself, but dangling one-armed from the nearest tree!

Apr 30, 2026 6:25 pm

Igrem scratches the back of his head (through his hood), wondering if he is in the right troop for the expedition they set out to do. He dares not embarrass Alex with a comment, since he was the one to start it all, but turns to Redhawk, worried: "Time of day is becoming late. Are you sure you can lead us to destination before night? Otherwise we might want to go back to town sooner than later..."

May 1, 2026 9:33 am

Redhawk, as you kneel, study and really take your time with the tracks, the confusion from earlier starts to fall away.

You can see multiple passes here. Not just one group moving through, but several over time. Goblins, yes—but also larger, heavier prints. Hobgoblins. At least two, possibly three. The stride, the depth… these weren’t stragglers. They were moving with purpose.

You also pick up on behavior. These are hunting parties. You find signs of pauses, shifts in formation, even where something was dragged for a short distance before being abandoned or carried off.

Then you notice something more important. The tracks split.

One trail is heavier, more traveled. It leads deeper into the Neverwinter Woods. That direction sees more organized movement. That’s likely where the larger force is operating from… or at least where they retreat to.

The second trail is lighter, but still consistent. It heads more westward, angling toward the High Road. If you had to bet—that is the direction of the goblin cave. Nott’s territory.

Either way, even if you push hard, you won’t reach the cave before nightfall. And turning back now? You’re too far off course for Phandalin too.

You’re in the wilderness for the night, with active goblin and hobgoblin hunting parties somewhere in the area.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 1, 2026 11:06 am

Redhawk will relay the info he has gathered then search for a halfway concealable camp sight for the night. He will forage as he does so to help feed the group.

[ +- ] Forager

OOC:

18 for Naturecraft, sorry I did that roll goofy

Last edited May 1, 2026 11:07 am

Rolls

Naturecraft w adv - (2d20+5, RA)

(1013) + 5 = 28

May 1, 2026 1:58 pm

Alex pipes up with "I'm happy to take the middle watch; I need to practice my knife throwing and juggling anyway".

May 1, 2026 2:31 pm

OOC:

As Avraham already knows, before we move on, let’s set watches. In this game, we’ll usually handle nights in three watches, each roughly 3–4 hours, covering dusk → deep night → pre-dawn.

If your character sleeps for any two watches, with food and water available, that counts as a full night’s rest—about as good as one can reasonably get while sleeping on the road. One watch of sleep is a short rest, and makes you roll if you want to heal HP; staying up all night has consequences.

Please post:
- Who takes which watch (you can double up or leave one empty if you wish)
- Anything your character does during their watch (stay alert, pray, study, brood, etc.)

Once I have that, we’ll resolve the night.

Rolls

Secret Roll

May 1, 2026 2:56 pm

Redhawk manages to gather enough food for the group. Tonight, you will eat rabbits. Tomorrow, some wild berries, water and dry bread (which you brought from Phandalin) for breakfast.

There's no need to spend any rations today.

May 1, 2026 3:19 pm

OOC:

We have the mule and wagon with us, right? Do we have fodder for them?

May 1, 2026 4:37 pm

"And this was supposed to be a one day affair..." grumbles Igrem. Not willing to point fingers, the mage volunteers for first watch, too annoyed to fall asleep quickly anyway.

May 1, 2026 5:07 pm

Redhawk will take pre-dawn. Boggart can sleep through if he likes as I am concerned.

May 2, 2026 1:47 am

OOC:

And miss all the potential fun?

Boggart has a pretty decent Perception score with 4 ranks, so he'll stay up with whoever has the lowest perception.

May 2, 2026 12:16 pm

OOC:

I am also +4

May 3, 2026 1:35 am

Gremlin says:

OOC:

And miss all the potential fun?

Boggart has a pretty decent Perception score with 4 ranks, so he'll stay up with whoever has the lowest perception.

OOC:

My perception is +2

May 5, 2026 9:34 am

Igrem takes first watch.

The others settle in, bellies full, weapons within reach. The forest is alive but sounds are distant: insects, the occasional rustle of leaves, the far-off call of some nocturnal creature.

Time passes. Slowly. But uneventfully.

OOC:

Igrem, your watch comes and goes without incident.

Next comes Alex and Boggart.

The night has deepened now. The darkness feels heavier. A small, shrinking sliver of light appears on the left side of the moon. Your companions sleep, breaths slow and steady.

Then...

A crack of a twig somewhere beyond the edge of camp.

Another.

Low voices. Harsh. Shapes begin to emerge between the trees. Two figures, moving cautiously but not silently. Broad-shouldered. Armed.

Hobgoblins.

They haven’t spotted the camp yet—but they are close. Very close.

Meanwhile, your small, carefully tended campfire smolders low, its faint orange glow piercing the darkness as thin wisps of smoke curl quietly into the night.

OOC:

Alex, Boggart—you’re on watch. At least two hobgoblins are approaching your position.

What do you do?

Rolls

Alex: Perception - (1d20+2, RA)

(10) + 2 = 12

Boggart: Perception - (1d20+7, RA)

(10) + 7 = 17

May 6, 2026 2:21 am

Boggart taps Alex on the shoulder and mimes "I'll wake them up, you keep watch." He slinks over to his sleeping companions, nudging them awake and motioning to be quiet. "Two hobs, over there," he whispers to each in kind.

May 6, 2026 9:23 am

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

May 7, 2026 1:12 am

Alex watches Boggart sneak over to Igrem and Redhawk. The little gnome is light on his feet, he is, Alex thinks. Whispering a quick prayer to his patron goddess, Alex dares to sneak just a little bit closer and see what he could hear, see, or divine from the hobgoblins. Who knows, if things go sideways, he would be in a better position to carve out some hobgoblin kidneys [Free Action: Hide + Stealth Check to move into a better, yet protected position].

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

May 7, 2026 9:00 am

Boggart says:

"Two hobs… over there."

Redhawk wakes immediately, but I guess Igrem will probably need to suppress an irritated sigh. ;)

Meanwhile, Alex slips away from the firelight and into the darkness beyond. Whether skill, luck, or the favor of his patron guides him, he manages to creep close enough to observe the approaching figures without drawing any notice.

Each wears leather armor darkened for traveling during the night and carries a shortbow already in hand, shortswords hanging at their hips. Unlike goblins, they move with martial discipline—measured and silent steps, carefully looking around and keeping an adequate spacing between them.

Then Alex notices another shape farther back.

And another.

A second pair. Four hobgoblins in total, hunting in pairs.

The rear two remain deeper in the shadows, watching the surrounding woods while the nearer pair slowly advances toward the faint glow of the campfire. One pauses briefly, crouching to inspect the ground before muttering something quietly to the other.

They’ve seen signs of the camp.

Now they’re closing in cautiously, trying to determine exactly who—or what—is waiting ahead.

OOC:

Everyone, please roll initiative and tell me... What do you do? We are not (yet) in combat, but...

Boggart and Alex, you have Advantage on this roll (and perhaps on your actions, depending on what you do)

May 7, 2026 9:57 am

Waking quickly and hearing hobgoblin Redhawk will get up grab his bow and move to the concealment on the wood line and nock an arrow.

Rolls

initiative - (1d20+3, RA)

(15) + 3 = 18

May 7, 2026 2:04 pm

Igrem gets up grumbling, but, understanding the situation, he tries to keep silent as much as he can. He crouches slowly out of his bedroll and join his companion, ready to react to any hostile action from the hobgoblins.

Rolls

Inititative - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

May 7, 2026 5:37 pm

Alex pauses, well within striking distance of the first pair of hobgoblins. So close, in fact, that he was slightly nauseous at the rank stench that emanated from them Clearly they have not evolved enough to discover the joy of showers, he thought with a frisson of disgust. Four hobgoblins, this will not be easy. All things considered, Alex realized his, and perhaps the party's, best chance was to use the shadows and his teammates' distractions to afford him the opportunities to glide in and out, hopefully carving the hobs into juicy—but disgusting—steaks. Remembering his countless lessons at the Waterdhavian salle d'armes he frequented, he considered, while it would be nice to get the jump on the trailing pair, tactics would suggest the best results come from reducing the number of combatants. So once the festivities begin, I should do my best to engage a foe already wounded, or at least distracted by my colleagues, and then slink back into the shadows. He then thought, I should probably consider blackening my blades in the evening….

OOC:

DM, may we have a map, or at least a description of the area and positions, please?

Rolls

Initiative (with advantage) - (2d20h1+3)

(916) + 3 = 19

May 7, 2026 11:23 pm

Boggart kneels and places one hand to the earth and the other upon the icon of his faith, the unicorn amulet. A breeze whips up around him, carrying glowing images of leaves, petals, and moths.

"Come, come! It's time to play, Puck!" His words echo out, and strands of golden light weave themselves into the shape of a large, translucent pine martin. It dances around Boggart, and the pair laugh as they ready themselves.

OOC:

I upcast Lifebinding Spirit to tier 2.

Rolls

Initiative - (2d20h1+2, RA)

(1118) + 2 = 20

May 8, 2026 4:15 pm

OOC:

Gremlin says:

I upcast Lifebinding Spirit to tier 2.

Sorry, you can only upcast when you get to Level 4. Unlike DnD, 3rd level characters can only cast Tier 1 spells. See below:

[ +- ] Upcasting

Avraham says:

DM, may we have a map, or at least a description of the area and positions, please?

A map it is. See below.

Leaves spiral upward. Pale golden light dances across the trees. The translucent pine marten bounds playfully around Boggart, its luminous form weaving through the air as laughter and whispered magic echo through the night.

The hobgoblins react instantly. Shortbows rise in near unison. One barks a sharp command in Goblin.

Then the forest erupts with the hiss of arrows.

Four shafts streak through the darkness toward Boggart and the glowing spirit beside him, their fletching whispering through the night air as the hobgoblins loose a coordinated volley from the shadows. And every one of them strikes Boggart.

One slams into his shoulder, another bites into his side, a third punches into his thigh, and the last catches him across the upper arm with brutal force. The impact staggers him backward.

OOC:

See each attack below. If you don't defend, that's a total of 25 damage!

OOC:

We are now in combat. Players turn! You have 3 actions each.

Rolls

Hobgoblin attacks - (1d6+2, 1d6+2, 1d6+2, 1d6+2, RA)

1d6+2 : (61) + 2 = 9

1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7

1d6+2 : (3) + 2 = 5

1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4

May 8, 2026 5:15 pm

Seeing that his new companion Boggart is getting some serious punishment, Igrem decides to help him first. Then unleash some punishment of his own on the hobgoblins!

OOC:

Action #1: Cast Heart's Fire on Boggart.
Action #2: Move in front of the tree to have clear line of sight of the enemy (stopping at around H9).
Action #3: Cast Zap at H1.

Last edited May 8, 2026 5:16 pm

Rolls

Zap spell damage - (2d8, RA)

(25) = 7

May 8, 2026 7:51 pm

OOC:

Working under the assumption that my Hide worked and H2 cannot see me and is thus distracted.

Alex grimaces as the night erupts into a flurry of shafts. Well, that's done it!. Taking advantage of the dark and confusion, he finds the seam between the nearest hobgoblin's (H2) armor and belly, and takes full advantage [Action 1: Attack + Vicious Opportunist to Max + Sneak on H2]. Watching with glee as his short sword sinks deeply into the hobgoblins belly, Alex moves back into the brush and attempts to break up his silhouette and thus line of sight [Cheat Free Action: Move + Action 2: Hide {if full cover it auto-succeeds; rolling in case the brush is not full cover}]. Once in the brush, Alex thinks he's safe for the moment, and so assesses the hobgoblin's body language and posture for any defensive advantage. Last thing I need is to become Alex the hedgehog like poor Boggart [Action 3: Anticipating Danger - Insight].

OOC:

EDIT
I forgot that as I am level 3 and took Silent Blade, I get advantage on Stealth checks at full health; which I am, so rolling once more to make up for it.

Well, it was worth a shot 😝

Last edited May 8, 2026 7:54 pm

Rolls

Short Sword (Vicious Opportunist 6 so rolling for Explosions) - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(5) + 8 = 13

Sneak Attack on crit - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Stealth DC15 - (1d20+4)

(5) + 4 = 9

Insight (Anticipate Danger) DC12 - (1d20+3)

(15) + 3 = 18

Stealth - Silent Blade Leave No Trace DC15 - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

May 8, 2026 10:29 pm

OOC:

Whoops! I thought that would have gone differently.

Boggart yelps, having thought that the hobgoblins were still too far away to get a proper shot off when he'd summoned his good friend. He brings up his wooden buckler, defending against the hail of arrows. The surge of Igrem's spell courses through him, and he rebukes one of his attackers (H1). Puck darts forward to attack the same foe before Boggart darts behind a tree (N11).

OOC:

Action 1: Defend (-9 Damage from attack #1)
Action 2: Rebuke (H1)
Action 3: Lifebinding Spirit attack (H1)
Action 4: Move (N11)

Last edited May 9, 2026 2:00 am

Rolls

Rebuke (Ignores armor, doesn't miss) - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

Puck Attack - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

May 9, 2026 12:40 am

Redhawk will move to E5 and mark H1 then fire his bow with advantage.

[ +- ] Hunters Mark

OOC:

Hope I did that right

Rolls

Short bow - (2d6h1+2, RA)

(43) + 2 = 6

Hobgoblins

May 9, 2026 12:04 pm

OOC:

Avraham says:

Working under the assumption that my Hide worked and H2 cannot see me and is thus distracted.

I just created a "Hidden" token for you. I updated the previous map, now it's easier to see that status (compare it to the current one =)).

Also, the Dice Gods don't want you hiding in that bush, so... Let's say Alex realizes the bush is too small for him to hide there again.

Using the confusion of the ambush and the darkness to his advantage, Alex darts forward like a striking viper. His blade slips neatly between the seams of H2’s leather armor and buries deep into the hobgoblin’s belly. The creature grunts sharply in pain.

Then Alex withdraws the blade with visible satisfaction and immediately dives back toward the brush, trying to disappear once more into shadow and foliage.

But it doesn’t work.

The bush is too sparse, too small to truly conceal him now that the hobgoblins know exactly where he is. His first attack succeeded because he struck from surprise—from uncertainty and darkness. Now every eye is searching for enemies.

Nearby, Redhawk’s arrow slams into H1 while Igrem’s crackling Zap scorches across the hobgoblin’s armor. Boggart’s glowing companion darts forward viciously, harrying the same target and forcing it briefly onto the defensive. But the armor protects the hobgoblin from the worst of it.

OOC:

Puck's and the arrow's +2 modifiers were ignored.

[ +- ] Medium Armor

H2, clutching its bleeding side, locks eyes on Alex and lunges directly toward him with an angry snarl. Its blade hacks through the brush in a brutal, aggressive strike meant to drive the rogue backward before he can vanish again.

At the same time, H1 does not rush blindly. Instead, the injured hobgoblin moves wide around the side, repositioning carefully to create a flank with its ally and trap Alex between them.

OOC:

Their melee attacks cause 2d8+2, usually, but they got advantage against Alex this round.

12 + 13, because of your Assess (Antecipate Danger) action. Unless you Defend, that's 25 damage.

Meanwhile, the two rear hobgoblins (H3, H4) maintain formation further back among the trees. Calm. Controlled. They keep their bows ready.

One arrow flies toward Boggart’s position behind the tree, aimed at the gnome despite his cover. It hits the tree instead.

OOC:

The arrow missed. No damage.

The other hobgoblin targets Igrem near the campfire, loosing a shaft that cuts through the darkness toward the mage’s chest.

OOC:

6 damage, unless Igrem defends.

Players turn! What do you do?

Hobgoblins

HP lost
H1: 17 (Bloodied)
H2: 18 (Bloodied)

OOC:

Edit: Added the Bloodied information

Rolls

Hobgoblin's Shoot vs Igrem - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Hobgoblin's Shoot vs Boggart (Disadvantage 1cover) - (2d6l1+2, RA)

(13) + 2 = 3

H1 Sword vs Alex (Advantage 1, flanking) - (3d8h2+2, RA)

(645) + 2 = 13

H2 Sword vs Alex (Advantage 1, flanking) - (3d8h2+2, RA)

(745) + 2 = 14

May 9, 2026 2:42 pm

Igrem attempts to shrug off the hit when seeing the arrow come his way. Then, feeling revengeful for this attack and this whole mess of a situation, target the rear hobgoblin with lightning fury.

OOC:

Action #1: Defend against the arrow (-3 damage)
Action #2 & #3: Cast Arc Lightning at H3 (& H4)

Rolls

Arc Lightning damage - (3d8, RA)

(87811) = 25

May 9, 2026 10:12 pm

OOC:

This is just an HP update after Igrem’s round. Ignoring the second reroll above, as Gamersplane dice roller doesn't follow Nimble rules...

[ +- ] Exploding Critical Hits

So that was an (8+7)+8+1

HP lost
H1: 17
H2: 18
H3: 24
H4: 24

OOC:

All of them are Bloodied.

May 9, 2026 10:26 pm

Redhawk will move two spots to G5 and loose another arrow at the mark H2 with adv. If that kills H2 he will mark H3.

Last edited May 9, 2026 10:26 pm

Rolls

Short bow w/adv - (2d6h1+2, RA)

(55) + 2 = 7

May 9, 2026 11:47 pm

OOC:

Redhawk, the hobgoblin is still alive (each one has more than 30 HP ;)). Yeah, won't be that easy. =)

So you have 0 charges (not 1).

On the other hand, you only used 2 actions, so you have another one (3 in total). What do you do? =)

HP lost
H1: 17
H2: 23
H3: 24
H4: 24

May 9, 2026 11:53 pm

OOC:

Hunter's mark doesn't cost a charge. I will shoot again but with H2 marked and I use adv does that cancel out the disadvantage of a second attack?

May 9, 2026 11:58 pm

OOC:

mathias0077 says:

Hunter's mark doesn't cost a charge. I will shoot again but with H2 marked and I use adv does that cancel out the disadvantage of a second attack?

Yup. I meant that you didn't got 1 charge yet... Was that from a previous combat? If so, it resets...

See your character sheet below:

Yeah, you can use your 3rd action for another (regular) attack as the Advantage and Disadvantage cancel each other. That's a good idea =)

May 10, 2026 12:06 am

Redhawk will quickly draw and nock another arrow and fire again at H2.

OOC:

I believe a hunter gets a charge for rolling initiative. I don't know what happened with the roll.

Last edited May 10, 2026 12:09 am

Rolls

Short bow - (1d6+2, RA)

(65) + 2 = 13

Hobgoblins

May 10, 2026 12:28 am

OOC:

mathias0077 says:

I believe a hunter gets a charge for rolling initiative

Actually, only when your quarry dies, you crit or hit them in melee. Rules below:

Quote:

I don't know what happened with the roll.

That's a critical!! Gamersplane rerolled the 6 for you and got a 5, for a total of 13 damage. =)

[ +- ] Exploding Critical Hits

So now you got 1 charge to use on your next round! =)

Hobgoblins

Before H2 can recover, Redhawk’s second arrow follows, burying itself deep into the hobgoblin’s side—right near the wound Alex opened moments earlier.

For an instant, it looks finished.

The hobgoblin staggers violently, knees buckling as blood pours freely down its armor. Its shortsword dips toward the ground, breath ragged and uneven.

Any normal warrior would have fallen.

But hobgoblins are not normal warriors.

With a guttural snarl, H2 forces itself upright again through sheer discipline and battlefield training. One hand presses hard against the bleeding wound while it drags in a sharp breath, refusing to collapse.

He gets his Second wind.

OOC:

That’s my Hobgoblin's special ability:

[ +- ] Second wind

Bruised, pierced, and barely standing, H2 somehow steadies itself and raises its sword once more, hatred burning in its eyes as it remains in the fight against all reason.

OOC:

Alex, Boggart, what do you do? =)

HP lost
H1: 17
H2: Second wind (1 HP left)
H3: 24
H4: 24

May 10, 2026 2:28 am

Boggart turns to Igrem as he prepares to cast his spell and says "strike true, friend!" His words rouse the mage, making him feel Optimistic about the spell. Dashing from behind the tree, he whistles and points to (H2), and Puck savages the Hobgoblin. Boggart arrives at [P6] and lays a hand on Alex and infuses him with healing light, easing his pain.

OOC:

Gnome Optimistic to reroll the 1 on Igrem's Arc-Lightning.

[ +- ] Optimistic

Action 1: Move (split over Action 1 and 3) to [P6].
Action 2: Puck murks H2. Good boy, Puck.
Action 3: Heal on Alex.

Last edited May 10, 2026 5:50 pm

Rolls

Optimistic Reroll (Arc Lightning's 1) - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Puck Attack - (1d6+2, RA)

(65) + 2 = 13

Heal (Alex) - (1d6+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

May 10, 2026 10:58 pm

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy had had better days. Specifically, most every day in the brief life of Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy was better than today. At least, that is what was going through Alex's mind as he was transfixed from both the front AND the rear by the swords of the two hobgoblins. Having seen their body language as he failed to hide himself in the brush, he was able to twist slightly and reduce some of the impact—emphasis on some [Reaction: Defend - reduce damage by 5hp due to armor]. This did not console him that much as he watched literal feet of rusty steel enter and exit his, formerly, interior organs. The night turned from black to gray as he lost consciousness [Wounded & Dying - Alex lost 20hp, which is his normal complement]. Expecting to be visited by some avatar of his patron, Lady Tymora, Alex was surprised to feel a warmth permeate his punctured carcass. Instead of divine judgement, his eyes opened up to the muck and mire of a Savage Coast forest floor. I'm not dead? Why am I not dead?? he thought [Heal 4hp from Boggart; remove Dying].

OOC:

DM. Being healed, do I have my remaining two actions (one spent on defense) or having "died" this round am I limited to that one action? If I have more, perchange, have the local hobgoblins been distracted by something else, assuming me to be a corpse? I will take any underhanded advantage I can get :)

May 10, 2026 11:44 pm

OOC:

Quote:

DM. Being healed, do I have my remaining two actions (one spent on defense) or having "died" this round am I limited to that one action?

You have your 2 actions. The way I see it, you "died" (and reacted) during the hobgoblin’s turn, then Boggart healed you. It's now your turn.

Boggart, considering that Igrem's Arc-Lightning was not a miss (now it's in the correct order) you can use your Optimistic special ability again, when you want to.

Alex, what do you do?

PS: H2 is dead. Puck killed him.

PS2: I'll describe the Hobgoblin's next actions after Alex acts (probably hiding or playing dead).

By the way, you're lying down in the middle of the bushes. Roll with Advantage if you try to hide or play dead

May 10, 2026 11:57 pm

Alex gingerly peeked at the ongoing fracas. Still dripping blood, pus, and other bodily fluids, he realized that his only hope was to have the hobgoblins lose track of him so that he could wield his blade to the greatest advantage for himself and his party. Thank Tymora that at least one of them was unmoving, face-down in the muck. Alex tried to mimic the dead hobgoblin's careless sprawl and unmoving torso. If they overlook me, I will make them pay for it, he thought.

Last edited May 10, 2026 11:57 pm

Rolls

Stealth Hide in Combat w/ Advantage DC15 - (2d20h1+4)

(914) + 4 = 18

Hobgoblins

May 11, 2026 12:17 am

H2 barely has time to stand before Puck is upon him.

The spectral pine marten streaks through the darkness, claws raking across the hobgoblin’s already ruined torso. The wounded soldier gives a final choking gasp before collapsing face-first into the mud, its shortsword slipping from nerveless fingers.

At nearly the same moment, Boggart bursts from behind the safety of the tree. It is, tactically speaking, not the wisest thing the gnome could have done.

And unquestionably one of the bravest.

OOC:

Boggart, you deserve an Inspiration.

[ +- ] Inspiration

Ignoring the danger, Boggart rushes straight into the bush while arrows still hiss through the night.

H1 glances toward the fallen body of his companion, then toward his own wounds.

In harsh Goblin, he barks a sharp command:

"Fall back!"

The two rear hobgoblins react immediately, disciplined even in retreat. They begin withdrawing deeper into the trees while drawing and loosing in practiced rhythm.

OOC:

They are 6 squares to the north. (Range 11 from Boggart)

You can pursue or attack them, but it is dark...

And the nearest exposed target is obvious.

Boggart.

Two arrows slice through the darkness toward the gnome who abandoned cover to save a companion—one aimed center mass, the other slightly higher toward shoulder and throat—as the hobgoblins attempt to punish that moment of heroism before fading back into the forest shadows.

OOC:

Players turn! What do you do?

HP lost
H1: 17
H3: 24
H4: 24

Hobgoblins

Rolls

Hobgoblin's Shoot vs Boggart - (1d6+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

Hobgoblin's Shoot vs Boggart - (1d6+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

May 11, 2026 1:02 am

Redhawk hearing the fallback will move to H3 and mark H1 and then use Incendiary shot with adv on him.

OOC:

Boy, I messed that up.

Last edited May 11, 2026 1:04 am

Rolls

Short bow w/adv incendiary shot - (2d6h1+2+d8, RA)

(54) + (1) + 2 = 8

incendiary shot - (2d8, RA)

(33) = 6

May 11, 2026 1:31 am

Alex watches in horror as the arrows transfix Boggart. Boggart, speak to me, are you still conscious? [Free Action: Say short phrase].

OOC:

If Boggart falls unconscious, Alex will do whatever the DM allows to help stabilize Boggart. Otherwise, Alex is going to sneak up to H1 and carve him a new spleen.

May 11, 2026 11:01 am

Igrem assesses the situation, and tries to find the best opportunity to hit and blind hobgoblin menacing Alex and Boggart. Then he magically gives Alex a little more agency for his next moves.

OOC:

Action #1: Create an opening while targeting H1.
Action #2: Cast Snowblind at H1.
Action #3: Cast Heart's Fire at Alex.

Rolls

Perception roll (Create and opening) - DC12 - (1d20+1)

(7) + 1 = 8

Snowblind damage - (1d6, RA)

(65) = 11

May 11, 2026 4:45 pm

Boggart raises his shield to block an arrow aimed at his neck, the other piercing his side. Despite a moment's grimace from the flash of pain, his signature cheeky grin returns to his face as he whispers to Alex. "Fit as a fiddle, fine fellow."

He whistles, and Puck returns to him, his radiant form dissolving into a stream of golden light and leaves which sink into Boggart. A moment later, the arrow in his side pushes out of his skin, not even a scab remaining where it once was. As his allies harry H1 into what Boggart was sure to be the final sleep, he dashes behind the nearby tree, breaking line of sight with the fleeing archers.

"Do we give chase?" He calls out to his compatriots.

OOC:

Action 1: Defend (Hobgoblin arrow).
Action 2: Lifebinding Spirit - Healing. Adieu, Puck.
Action 3: Move.

Rolls

Lifebinding Spirit - Healing - (1d6+2, RA)

(3) + 2 = 5

May 11, 2026 5:04 pm

OOC:

DM: Alex is already hidden. Based on my read of page 10 in the Core rulebook, I don't need to roll for stealth to move now, that was covered in the hide roll last round. As such, the attack is with advantage, but given hidden implies distraction, I will use Vicious Opportunist instead, as per usual. If my understanding is incorrect, please let me know.

Alex breathes a sigh of relief watching Boggart escape some of the injury and then dash back into cover. Now, he had a mission. Using the cover he was in, he planned on sneaking up on the remaining close hobgoblin (H1), despite being gravely wounded, and repaying the loan of steel that the hobgoblin had extended to him. As he slithered his way through the muddy underbrush, Alex felt that now familiar feeling of drinking the finest espresso in Waterdeep. Tymora bless Igrem, he's given me that energy boost again! [Action 1: Attack with Vicious Opportunist and thus Sneak Attack].

Alex watched with a glee bordering on the manic as once again, he was able to find just the right spot in which to sink his short sword almost to the hilt. As the hobgoblin cried out, Alex figured on discretion being the better part of valor, and headed back into the woods [Action 2: Move to the brush at N7]. Glancing around quickly, Alex realized he would have to contort himself to make a smaller target for those pesky archers [Action 3: Anticipate Danger - Stealth].

Having done what he could to minimize the target surface, he then tried to use the brush to break line of sight and prepare for another guerilla attack, if necessary [Action 4: Hide].

OOC:

As Alex is not at full health, Alex does not get advantage on stealth. However, Alex DOES get one free action for move or hide per round, which I will use now, unless overruled.

As Alex crouched, he was pretty certain that his dagger slipped his sheath and he could see the blade reflecting the campfire. Oh, that's not going to work! Shoving the blade back in the sheath, Alex changed positions just enough to throw off any onlookers—he hoped! [Cheat Free Action: Hide DC15].

As he crouched, his elbow knocked into a particularly sturdy branch, and he could not keep his yelp quite inside. Ouch! he expressed quite involuntarily. So much for being stealthy, he thought morosely. Tymora watch over your devoted son!, he prayed.

Last edited May 11, 2026 6:51 pm

Rolls

Short Sword: Rolling for exploding crits, first attack is crit (+6) - (1d6+2+6, RA)

(61) + 8 = 15

Sneak Attack on crit - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Stealth (Anticipate Danger) DC12 - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Stealth - Hide DC15 - (1d20+4, RA)

(6) + 4 = 10

Stealth Hide (Free Action) DC15 - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

May 11, 2026 7:12 pm

As the hobgoblin barks the order to fall back, Redhawk is already moving. The ranger steps through the brush to gain a clear angle, eyes locked onto the fleeing commander. He looses a marked shot, the incendiary shot illuminating the trees in a brief wash of orange light.

At the same instant, Igrem raises a hand and conjures a swirling burst of blinding frost and snow around the hobgoblin. Ice crystals whirl through the air, obscuring vision just as H1 attempts to withdraw. The combined assault is too much. H1 staggers backward a single step, trying stubbornly to stay upright even as its strength fails.

Then Alex arrives. He slips from the brush with desperate precision, using the chaos of fire, snow, and shadow to close the distance. His shortsword drives forward one final time, sinking deep into the weakened hobgoblin’s side almost to the hilt.

H1 is dead.

As the last nearby hobgoblin falls, Boggart dashes behind the nearest tree once more, wisely breaking line of sight with the surviving archers retreating deeper into the forest.

For a brief moment, the woods grow quieter again—save for heavy breathing and the distant sounds of movement as the hobgoblins run into the darkness.

Then Boggart calls out softly:

Boggart says:

Do we give chase?

OOC:

Next round! What do you do?

May 11, 2026 8:29 pm

Redhawk will move to the group"I can track them if we want to give chase."

May 11, 2026 8:38 pm

Alex crawls back to the embers of the campfire. Gasping, he collapses and groans "You all can do what you want but unless those hobgoblins come back, I don't want to move for the next eight hours." Rolling on to his side, he halfheartedly pokes through his pack looking for anything that can serve as a bandage and staunch the various flows of red that ooze from his perforated body.

OOC:

Alex could definitely use making camp for eight hours, but will settle on catching his breath. He needs to expend some hit dice; he's at 4hp.

Last edited May 11, 2026 8:39 pm

May 11, 2026 9:16 pm

"I could track them on my own while you all rest and heal up. Nice to know where they went and if they might come back. We bloodied them pretty good and two aren't returning so they will probably leave us be. It is up to the group.

May 11, 2026 10:00 pm

Alex groans "someone should check those hobgoblins for valuables."

May 12, 2026 1:02 am

"After we tend to those wounds," Boggart says. He helps Alex back to camp and sets about treating injuries. He places a hand over a wound and closes his eyes.

"Mielikki, Lady of the Forest, ease the suffering of those harmed in your realm. Your faithful follower beseeches."

A gentle night wind swirls around Alex, kicking up golden leaves.

OOC:

Boggart casts Heal on Alex.

Last edited May 12, 2026 1:03 am

Rolls

Heal - (1d6, RA)

(61) = 7

May 12, 2026 8:08 am

Redhawk will disappear into the forest to track the fleeing Hobs.

Rolls

Naturecraft - (1d20+5, RA)

(14) + 5 = 19

May 12, 2026 8:53 am

Redhawk, you slip quietly into the darkness after the fleeing hobgoblins. To most, the fleeing enemies would already be swallowed by the night.

But not to you.

You pick up their trail quickly.

The surviving hobgoblins are moving north, retreating fast. But even wounded and under pressure, they maintain discipline. You notice how they alternate positions while moving—one covering while the other advances—military habits drilled deep.

They are hurt, though. One even leaves a steady blood trail along the undergrowth.

You shadow them for roughly twenty minutes through increasingly dense woods. Eventually, the hobgoblins slow. The pair has stopped beside a narrow creek cutting through the forest floor. One kneels to drink while the other keeps watch, breathing hard.

OOC:

What do you do?

Meanwhile, back at camp, Boggart’s magic and careful tending begin easing the worst of Alex’s wounds as the exhausted rogue lies near the smoldering embers.Two dead hobgoblins lie nearby in the darkness, and Redhawk has vanished into the woods after the survivors.

For the moment, you have a chance to breathe...

OOC:

... And roleplay!

May 12, 2026 3:46 pm

Igrem has no time to warn Redhawk before he is on the tails of the fleeing hobgoblins. "Well, so much for that. I hope he is more successful finding his way than we were earlier..." he simply says, before he inquires on his companions' health and helps them search the dead hobgoblins' corpses.

May 12, 2026 4:57 pm

OOC:

I don't think spells get exploding criticals, so I am going to only take 6hp from Boggart's heal. Is it still midnight watch or is it closer to day now?

Alex releases a heartfelt sigh as he feels the warm, numbing magic of Boggart's spell infuse his body, removing the sharpest pains and closing up many wounds. "My heartfelt thanks, Master Boggart. 'twas a fortunate day when we met in the caverns of Nott the Notionally Nuptial." Slowly sitting up, he continues, including Igrem in his question "What think you? Will the woodsman be away for hours, or should we prepare to head out as soon as it is light and retrieve the coster's goods?"

OOC:

If we stay less than eight hours, it's "catching breath". Otherwise it's "making camp" unless those two hobgoblins come back—with friends, perhaps.

May 13, 2026 8:36 am

Alex says:

My heartfelt thanks, Master Boggart. 'twas a fortunate day when we met in the caverns of Nott the Notionally Nuptial. What think you? Will the woodsman be away for hours, or should we prepare to head out as soon as it is light and retrieve the coster's goods?"

OOC:

I have moved Redhawk to another thread, so you can continue roleplaying here.

Igrem, Boggart, what do you do?=)

May 13, 2026 9:54 am

"I think we should stay put and light a fire, at least until Redhawk comes back. If he doesn't after a 1 our 2 hours, we should probably go look for him. What do you think?" finally says Igrem after a few seconds of hesitation. He is obviously still not sure of the proper line of action.

May 13, 2026 12:13 pm

"Glad to be of service," Boggart says, beaming. He turns to include Igrem in the circle of conversation. "Redhawk is a canny hunter. I have faith that he'll return to us if we wait, but I'm not opposed to following after him, if needs be. Find anything in their pockets?" He points towards the dead hobgoblins.

May 13, 2026 11:51 pm

The fallen hobgoblins had a few items...

Their leather armor is worn but well-maintained, and each bears a serviceable shortbow with a mostly full quiver, along with a shortsword of decent make. One of them also carried a whetstone darkened smooth from long use, tucked carefully into a belt pouch alongside several strips of dried meat wrapped in cloth.

Taken together, the weapons and armor could fetch around 16 gold pieces if sold in town.

Rolls

Loot (in gp) - (3d8+10, RA)

(411) + 10 = 16

May 14, 2026 12:09 am

Alex sighs. "I think you're right, Igrem, if Redhawk isn't back in an hour or two, we go after him. Boggart, would you be able to track where he went?" Alex stretches out a bit to catch whatever rest he could [Catch Breath: Expending 2d6].

OOC:

Lucky me, 10 was the most Alex could gain anyway :)

Last edited May 14, 2026 12:10 am

Rolls

Catch Breath - (2d6)

(64) = 10

May 14, 2026 12:34 am

"Redhawk is more the tracking type, but I've got my wits about me," Boggart says. He takes a seat by the fire and catches his breath, indulging in a couple of berries he found close to camp. "Friend Igrem, do you need a touch of mending?" He asks, wiggling softly glowing fingers.

May 14, 2026 3:26 pm

Igrem raises an eyebrow at Boggart. "I won't say no. Even though not severely, these fiends did hit me during the fight. And I'm not sure I can find rest again in this place!"

May 15, 2026 2:35 am

OOC:

@htech, clearly it's a bit metagaming for us to know what is happening with Redhawk. That being said, we did discuss going to check on him. Catching breath is all of 10 minutes. Is it inappropriate for us to head out from our thread and be able to reach Redhawk soon?

May 15, 2026 3:31 am

Boggart gives Igrem a look over. "Alright, this will get you right as rain." Healing energies flow through his hands into Igrem.

Last edited May 15, 2026 3:32 am

Rolls

Heal - (1d6+2, RA)

(62) + 2 = 10

May 15, 2026 8:13 am

OOC:

Avraham says:

htech, clearly it's a bit metagaming for us to know what is happening with Redhawk. That being said, we did discuss going to check on him. Catching breath is all of 10 minutes. Is it inappropriate for us to head out from our thread and be able to reach Redhawk soon?

The timing isn't right for that... It will be the other way around, Redhawk will return to this thread as soon as we resolve his combat. It will end soon, in 1 or 2 posts.

May 16, 2026 10:16 am

You decide to wait a bit, as Redhawk will probably be back. Before long, not even an hour fully passes, you hear movement approaching through the trees. Deliberate.

A moment later, Redhawk emerges from the darkness and steps back into camp.

He appears unharmed, though clearly tired from the pursuit. Slung over his shoulder are a few recovered weapons—a couple of shortswords and an extra shortbow, likely gathered from the battlefield or abandoned during the hobgoblins’ retreat.

OOC:

Redhawk, if you wish, you can keep this for you:

Short Sword, 1d6+DEX dmg, Piercing, Light.

To everyone: what do you do?

May 16, 2026 10:47 am

Igrem, Boggart’s healing magic flows into you, easing the lingering pain and stiffness left by the fight.

OOC:

Recover up to 8 hp (ignore the reroll, as healing spells cannot crit or miss in this game)

But the exhaustion remains.

You realize now just how drained you are.

You took first watch earlier in the night and never truly got the chance to rest afterward. The hobgoblin attack shattered any hope of sleep, and the adrenaline of battle carried you farther than your body comfortably wanted to go.

Now that things have finally quieted down, fatigue crashes down hard.

Your eyes feel heavy beneath the hood. Your thoughts are slower than usual. Even keeping focus on the conversation around the campfire takes conscious effort.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 16, 2026 12:24 pm

Red hawk emerges from the woods with some of the hobs gear. As he takes a seat at the fire and calms down a bit he realizes he took some damage. "I caught the hobs and took care of them and didn't really realize until now I took more damage then I thought. I hid the bodies and grabbed some of their gear and found some coins." He lays the gear on the ground. "I am going to keep a short sword for my use. I also found a pretty clear trail they seems to use quite often if want to go investigate later. It should be easy to find."

OOC:

Would like to rest a bit to use catch breath if possible. To recover some hps. I am down to 11 out of 28

Last edited May 16, 2026 12:25 pm

May 17, 2026 10:14 am

The rest of the night passes without further incident.

A pale gray light slowly spreads across the open land north of the Triboar Trail, pushing back the darkness in soft waves. Morning mist clings low over the grassy plains, shimmering faintly with dew, while the lightly forested patches around your camp cast long shadows in the rising sun. Birds begin calling from scattered branches overhead, and the cool air carries the fresh scent of earth and wild grass.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 17, 2026 12:05 pm

OOC:

Do we recover and hps? Catch breath?

May 17, 2026 1:33 pm

mathias0077 says:

OOC:

Do we recover and hps? Catch breath?

OOC:

Alex did while Redhawk was out playing catch with the hobs. Catching breath takes 10 minutes, but Igrem is about to keel over.

DM, I presume it is now morning.

Alex glances at Redhawk and his victory trophies. "My Lady of the Glittering Dice has clearly looked on you with favor, woodsman. You dared boldly and were rewarded! But now, sit for a few minutes and catch your breath. We should take advantage of the daylight and retrieve the coaster’s goods whilst we can." Turning to the exhausted mage, Alex continued "Perhaps you should ride on the wagon until we reach the cave, Igrem. You look like Mystra herself wrung you out to dry."

May 17, 2026 5:58 pm

OOC:

mathias0077 says:

Do we recover any hps? Catch breath?

Feel free to catch breath and spend any amount of Healing Dice you want.

If you wait an extra couple of hours before leaving in the morning, the other PCs can have some extra downtime to craft, hunt or forage, for example. In that case, if you keep resting, you can consider that as Make Camp. =)

[ +- ] Catch Breath

[ +- ] Make Camp

May 17, 2026 6:32 pm

"You are probably right, Alex. This forest has a bad influence on me. The sooner we are out of here the better." says Igrem, answering to his long time friend. He does congratulate Redhawk for his catch, though.

If ever the party wants to take a couple hours before leaving, he will take advantage of the extra downtime to rest a little.

May 17, 2026 6:50 pm

Redhawk will look at the others"Maybe we should wait a bit and take our time with some breakfast and cleaning our gear and weapons."

OOC:

If we wait I will use one hd for 10 hps

Last edited May 17, 2026 6:53 pm

May 18, 2026 2:32 am

OOC:

I can’t gain more HP with Make Camp than I did with CB. I’m happy to do whatever the party wishes.

Last edited May 19, 2026 12:08 am

May 18, 2026 9:10 am

OOC:

Avraham says:

I’m happy to do whatever the party wishes.

In that case, both Alex and Boggart have some free time.

You can craft, study, practice, forage, hunt, talk, share some stories, improve your relationship, start a long term project...

Boggart, Alex, what do you do?

May 18, 2026 9:28 am

Meanwhile....

Where next? Public

Let's go to Nott’s cave, as planned

A (not so) slight detour to the north, following the hobgoblin's trail

If this is not unanimous, feel free to roleplay that conversation, if you want to.

May 18, 2026 2:15 pm

OOC:

Speaking as the player, not the character, I don't want to get too sidetracked. Also, as the character, Alex's word is on the line with the costermistress. Further, Sildar is waiting for us at the inn and seems to be willing to pay us. Happy to roleplay this in Alex's voice if desired.

Last edited May 18, 2026 2:16 pm

May 18, 2026 2:18 pm

htech says:

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Despite taking a few moments to bandage up earlier, Alex is tired. He did get a bit of sleep last night, but from about midnight and on, the night was shot. Despite wanting to practice his knife, sword, and other juggling skills, Alex simply leans back against the warm body of the mule and lets the adrenaline crash leave his body.

May 18, 2026 3:36 pm

OOC:

Boggart, what do you do?

Boggart, having expended himself both physically and spiritually, is going to make camp. Where he lays down a bed of heather sprouts, and he produces some berries and nuts that he had been foraging in the background while the party had been traveling. The translucent form of Puck curls around him, and he rests in the bosom of his Lady.

OOC:

Because of Survivalist, I never run out of my own personal rations. +10 HP for making camp

Goblins

May 19, 2026 9:20 am

After a few more precious hours of uninterrupted rest, a simple breakfast is shared before gear is gathered and the journey resumes.

OOC:

You made camp. Feel free to spend your Healing Dice, no need to roll.

Redhawk leads once more, this time with clearer direction. Following the familiar signs along the forest edge to the west, the group presses onward through the lightly wooded terrain until the trees begin to thin.

Then the trail opens.

Before you rises a colossal rock formation draped in moss, roots, and creeping vines. Its dark stone face looms above the forest floor like the ruins of some ancient titan, and carved into its base yawns the wide mouth of a cave. From within flows a shallow stream of crystal-clear bluish water, its gentle current spilling outward over smooth stones and pale sand. Sunlight filters through the canopy overhead in golden shafts, scattering brilliant reflections across the rippling water and the cave entrance alike.

The scene should be peaceful.

Should.

Because, as you already know, this cave is no untouched place of nature. Standing guard at either side of the entrance are two goblins clad in piecemeal leather and rusted metal. Their thin green faces twist beneath crude spiked helmets, bloodshot eyes narrowing immediately as they spot your approach. Spears are planted firmly before them, posture tense and watchful.

And, as you well remember, to the right of the cave entrance, tangled bushes sway softly in the breeze—thick enough to conceal more goblins.

The guards were talking amongst themselves as you approach and one of them slowly grins. Too wide. Too many sharp teeth.

Goblins

OOC:

What do you do?

May 19, 2026 6:44 pm

OOC:

Can I have already summoned Puck when we set out from camp? Other than that, I think it would have been explained to Boggart to let Alex do the speaking first :)

May 19, 2026 10:15 pm

Radhawk will stand off to the side with bow. Alex and Igrem seem to have a decent relationship so he will let one of them make address. He will just be ready if things go sideways.

May 19, 2026 10:57 pm

As the closest thing to a front-line combatant that this party currently has, Boggart stands near the front, ready to defend if needs be. Puck stands beside him, glowing softly. Smiling, Boggart waves to the guards, but says nothing.

May 20, 2026 12:54 am

OOC:

Quote:

Can I have already summoned Puck when we set out from camp?

Sure.

Alex, Igrem, what do you do?

May 20, 2026 3:27 am

Watch over me, Smiling Lady of Good Fortune, Alex whispers as he approaches, for I go boldly to best them in a battle of wits and overwhelm them with charm. Plastering a wide smile on his face, he doffs his cap and bows low to the two sentries. "Hail and well met on this fine morning, bold sentries, the morning of the second of the reign of her most royal highness, the puissant and redoubtable Queen Nott. We have come to pay our respects to your sovereign and incidentally to retrieve a scant few items that we had accidentally left here during the fearsome fracas with the late and unlamented Klarg, may his bones fill your stew. We are happy to simply load our wagon and let you reclaim the currently unusable space to expand your mighty dominion, but we are happy to present our credentials to her majesty if that would be desired."

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+4, RA)

(15) + 4 = 19

Goblins

May 20, 2026 7:53 am

The two goblin sentries stare at Alex in utter bewilderment.

At first, both tighten their grip on their spears when he approaches, eyes narrowing suspiciously beneath their battered helmets. But as Alex launches into his elaborate greeting—bowing, smiling, and speaking in a torrent of noble-sounding phrases—their expressions slowly shift from hostility… to confusion. Profound confusion.

One goblin glances at the other halfway through the speech. The other shrugs helplessly. Certain words clearly register.

"Queen Nott."

That name they understand.

And yes, they replied, Queen Nott now reigns over the cave, with Yeemik supporting her alongside what the goblins grandly refer to as the Council of Most Trusted Advisors. That much seems firmly established for now. But the rest?

"Puissant…"

"Redoubtable…"

"Incidentally…"

The goblins look increasingly lost as Alex continues speaking far faster—and far fancier—than either of them can comfortably follow.

As you finish, the one on the left eventually replies.

"You… talk weird," he says slowly. "But… Are friends with Queen Nott, maybe."

The other goblin nods vigorously now that a conclusion has finally been reached.

"Yes. Maybe friends."

They lower their spears. After a brief muttered argument in Goblin over whether "credentials" is a food or something shiny, one of them points toward the cave entrance.

"You leave wagon outside," the goblin says. "Then go talk to Her Majesty."

The other goblin puffs out his chest importantly.

"Council maybe there too."

OOC:

What do you do?

Goblins

May 20, 2026 8:48 am

Igrem let his friend Alex do the talking, as is usual, then shrugs at their directions. "Let's get it over with." Before entering, though, giving way to his inner suspicion towards goblins, he adds: "Shouldn't we leave someone here to guard the wagon?" He eyes the two sentries intermittently, concerned.

Goblins

May 20, 2026 12:06 pm

Igrem says:

Shouldn't we leave someone here to guard the wagon?"

"We goblins? You humans? We goblins will stay, you humans can find your way. Is there any food for us to eat in the wagon?"

OOC:

What do you do?

Goblins

May 20, 2026 10:28 pm

Redhawk will look at the others"I will stay guard if you like. Ask the council about the hobs see if that are at odds or know of them." He will pull his dagger out and start sharpening it.

Last edited May 20, 2026 10:28 pm

May 20, 2026 10:28 pm

"Much thanks, brave sentinels. We will certainly tell the queen of your alertness and steadfast natures in her service. As for food, sadly, the wagon is empty. It's purpose is to return the flotsam and jetsam back, allowing you to increase her majesty's demesne." Being on the road only a couple of days, Alex still has some rations left from his camping supplies. Quickly doing the math, he thinks he can spare one, leaving two for the return to Phandalin. Slowly reaching into his pack, Alex draws out one days rations and extends his hand to the goblins. However, would you brave warriors take these rations as a token of our goodwill?

Grik and Snik

May 20, 2026 10:56 pm

The two goblin sentries immediately stare at the offered rations like Alex has just produced a chest of royal treasure.

One goblin’s eyes widen.

"Food!" he blurts before quickly trying to regain some semblance of military dignity. He clears his throat and straightens his spear. "Uh… tribute for Queen Nott. Yes."

The second goblin is already reaching for the bundle.

"Good tribute. Go and see Queen Nott now."

The other puffs out his chest again importantly.

"Tell the queen that Grik and Snik are very loyal guards."

OOC:

What do you do?

Grik and Snik

May 21, 2026 1:07 pm

Igrem rolls his eyes. He reaches into his pack as well and brings out a ration for the other goblin. "Yes, I would feel more comfortable if you could stay around the wagon." he whispers to Redhawk, even though the two goblins do not seem to be a big threat. Then he motions his companions to lead the way into the caves.

May 21, 2026 4:10 pm

Boggart leads the way, smiling and nodding to the two goblins as he passes. "What a friendly bunch." He says, and gives Puck a scritch behind the ears. "Your powers of persuasion are quite potent, Alex. Where'd you learn such fancy words?"

May 23, 2026 11:34 am

Redhawk remains outside with the wagon, settling himself near the cave entrance. Igrem quietly hands over one of his own ration to the second sentry, earning another look of delighted surprise from the goblins. Between the food and Redhawk’s very visible presence beside the wagon, the guards seem more interested in dividing their unexpected feast than causing trouble.

With that, the rest of you step into the cave.

As you remember, the tunnel bends inward before abruptly widening into a much larger chamber illuminated by smoky cookfires and scattered torchlight. The cave splits naturally into two levels: a broad lower section stretches northward while, to the south, a steep rocky staircase climbs roughly ten feet upward to an elevated ledge.

And there, atop the southern rise… Is the royal court.

Yeemik stands prominently near the top of the natural stairs, thick-bellied and smug, his posture radiating the confidence of someone very pleased with his recent rise in status. One hand rests near a wicked-looking blade while his narrow eyes immediately track the party’s entrance.

Beside him sits Queen Nott herself.

Her "throne" is little more than an improvised chair assembled from scavenged wood, furs, and bits of stolen gear, placed atop a flat stone to elevate her above the rest of the chamber.

At the moment, she appears occupied.

An old goblin stands below the ledge, waving his arms dramatically while complaining loudly in Goblin about something involving mushrooms, stolen rats, and accusations of cheating at dice. Nott listens with the weary expression of someone already regretting becoming royalty.

Then the newcomers are noticed.

Conversation in the chamber begins to die down.

Goblin eyes turn toward you one by one.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 24, 2026 1:54 pm

Alex steps boldly forward, doffs his plumed hat, and bows to Queen Nott. Greetings, your most gracious majesty. It does our hearts well to see you enthroned and ruling most magnanimously after the defeat of the evil Klarg, may his bones rest uneasily for eternity. We have returned to remove the dross that we left behind after our joint battle with the former overlord. The situation at the start of your reign was such that we felt you would appreciate our quick departure, and in such, we left behind a number of crates which we are contracted to bring to Phandalin. We have returned to both keep our word and, at the same time, help you expand your domain, as once we remove the crates, the entirety of that space is freed for you to use and exploit at your will, oh might and fearsome Queen Nott! With this, Alex takes one step back and plasters his most obsequious smile on his face.

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Nott, The Queen

May 25, 2026 12:45 am

Queen Nott listens attentively from her improvised throne, chin resting lightly on one clawed hand as Alex delivers his lavish greeting. Unlike many of the other goblins, she actually seems pleased by it.

Yeemik, however, remains standing beside the throne with arms folded tightly across his chest, his expression far more guarded. Near him lounges a thin goblin, twitchy and sharp-eyed, absently spinning a stolen spoon between long fingers while studying the party suspiciously.

When Alex finishes, Nott smiles.

"Nott remembers you," she says. "You helped with Klarg problem. Nott likes friends who help. Where is Nelly?

That friendship earns a few uneasy glances from Yeemik and the thin goblin.

"But…" Nott continues, her smile fading slightly as she glances sideways toward her advisors, "…Queen must listen to Council of Most Trusted Advisors."

The thin goblin immediately straightens proudly.

"Boxes important now," he says quickly. "Kingdom property."

Yeemik grunts agreement.

"Many useful things inside. Crates good for tribe."

Nott reluctantly agrees and nods. Then, she seems to think about something else and says:

"But maybe we could trade. It is better than keeping," she says diplomatically. "Friends should trade fair."

The thin goblin begins counting possibilities on his fingers.

"Trade... For gold. Food. Useful things. Weapons maybe."

Yeemik adds in a lower tone:

"Or services. Protection."

OOC:

What do you do?

Nott, The Queen

May 25, 2026 10:23 am

Igrem greets his teeth, looks sideways at Alex, then, too impatient to wait for his companion to use convoluted sentences to answer, simply says: "We don't have much gold. We do have some food. What kind of protection do you require?"

May 25, 2026 5:38 pm

OOC:

What does Alex know about Redhawk. Does he look Elvish? For that matter, I was assuming Igrem was human. Is that true?

May 25, 2026 5:57 pm

OOC:

Redhawk is human

May 26, 2026 9:11 am

OOC:

Igrem is human. Hard to figure out, given the long hair, lack of beard and hood!

May 26, 2026 9:35 pm

OOC:

Buncha' longshanks in this party!

Boggart stands to the side, rocking back and forth on his heels. He notices one of the goblins that was guarding Redhawk and him and gives them a smile and a wave while negotiations are under way.

Last edited May 26, 2026 9:36 pm

May 27, 2026 12:50 am

Inside the cave
Yeemik eyes Igrem for a long moment, clearly appreciating the more direct approach.

"Tribe small now. New. Many things in woods want hurt goblins. Hobgoblins. Wolves. Bugbears. Maybe humans too."

The thin goblin chimes in quickly:

"Maybe someone attacks cave while heroes nearby. Friends help friends, yes? Got us an alliance?"

Outside
Outside the cave, Boggart’s cheerful wave catches one of the goblin guards slightly off guard.

Grik blinks suspiciously at first, then awkwardly waves back while clutching part of the ration bundle protectively under one arm.

After a moment, he sidles a little closer and lowers his voice conspiratorially.

"Queen Nott better than Klarg," he says with surprising sincerity. "Less throwing goblins in stream."

Snik, the other guard, snorts.

"Klarg threw many goblins in stream."

OOC:

What do you do?

May 27, 2026 8:53 am

Igrem looks briefly at Alex, again, ponders Yeemik's words for a few seconds and answers: "We were attacked by 4 hobgoblins last night. They won't bother anyone anymore. If you are attacked as well by such foes, and we are in the vicinity, we will help you as much as we are able to."

He looks yet again at Alex to know if he agrees. If yes, he turns to both leaders and adds: "Do we have a deal?"

May 28, 2026 3:20 am

Boggart leans in to listen to the Goblin intently. Upon hearing that many goblins were chucked into streams he gasps, scandalized. Puck mirrors his shock. "That's horrible! Why would he do something so...so mean?"

May 28, 2026 11:55 pm

Inside
"If heroes nearby and help tribe when trouble comes…"
Yeemik says carefully, "…then, and only then, tribe trade boxes."

Outside
Outside, Grik looks genuinely confused by Boggart’s horror.

"Klarg angry a lot," the goblin explains with a shrug. "If goblin annoy Klarg, sploosh."

He pantomimes throwing someone dramatically into water.

"Said it build character."

Snik snickers.

"Mostly built drowning."

Grik nods solemnly, then glances toward the cave entrance.

"How long will it take?" he asks.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 29, 2026 12:27 am

Redhawk just sits and keeps an eye on this situation as it plays out. Boggart never seems to quit amazing him with his constant jovial attitude. He will put his dagger away after it is good and sharp. Gotta keep your blades keen. He thinks about how easily it punctured the hobb when he threw at him. He will then slowly pull out the short sword he acquired and check the blade carefully and give it a good honing as he waits. He will look at the goblins and explain"We had a run in with some Hobbglobins not to far from here so good to be prepared."

May 29, 2026 1:04 am

OOC:

@mathias0077 Thanks. If Redhawk looked Elvish I was thinking to speak to him in that language so as to minimize the chance of the goblins speaking to us, thus the question. Moot now 😊

Avraham sent a note to htech

Alex was content to let Redhawk and Igrem handle discussions with Yeemik and Nott for a while. I shouldn't push my luck, he thought. However, as the conversation continued, he felt more and more uncomfortable. Tyche's Fair-Tressed Daughter demands boldness from her worshippers, not laziness. I must honor her in deed; not just thought. While wit and eloquence may have been wasted on the two mongrels at the cave entrance, this Yeemik creature seems to be of a different caliber. I must treat him as I would a human—at least for now.

At a natural break, he cleared his throat and joined the conversation. Master Yeemik, or is it Chief Vizier Yeemik, you raise the element of barter, of exchange between comrades, if not friends. And a good point it is. Mutual shared interest should result mutual shared benefit. That is the cornerstone of civilization, is it not? And certainly we are all civilized here!

Taking a breath, Alex continued However, mutual interest comprises enlightened self-interest of both parties. Now, you have proffered as suggestion of what would be of continued interest to you. May I most respectfully raise the following? In our rich history of interaction, it may be suggested that there exists somewhat of a disparity in balance. For had we not, through the force of arms, skill, and the redoubtable Nelly, successfully cleared the obstacles to the reign of her highness, Queen Nott? Moreover, here Alex motioned to Igrem, as my taciturn colleague stated, despite being outsized, outarmored, and outarmed, we rid these very woods of a squad of dangerous and highly skilled hobgoblin raiders and forward scouts.

Lastly, I would raise the following concern. All we wish is to repatriate these goods to the coster who truly owns them. We are not taking them for ourselves. I fear for both of our sakes should the coster not receive their goods. As it is, I surmise they were preparing a retrieval mission until we informed them of the location of the goods. Should we return empty-handed, they may decide to retrieve it themselves, and they do not have the deep bonds of fellowship that your tribe and our party share. I would hope you would take these ideas into your consideration and wise counsel, Yeemik, chief vizier and most trusted counsel to her majesty, Queen Nott, long may she reign. Alex finishes with one of his half-bows to both Yeemik and Nott.

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+4)

(11) + 4 = 15

May 29, 2026 8:54 am

Yeemik’s eyes narrow as Alex launches once more into his winding, elaborate argument. At first, the large goblin seems prepared to dismiss half of it outright, especially once words like repatriate and enlightened self-interest begin flying through the chamber.

The other goblins beside him visibly gives up trying to follow after the second sentence.

But Yeemik keeps listening.

Slowly, reluctantly, the chief advisor’s expression shifts from irritation to contemplation.

The mention of Klarg’s fall earns a few approving grunts from nearby goblins. The destruction of the hobgoblin patrol likewise seems to carry weight. And when Alex points out that angry humans from the coster might eventually come here themselves if denied the goods…

That clearly gives Yeemik pause. He does not like the argument.

Which is very different from saying it is wrong.

The cave grows quiet while he thinks, but, before Yeemik can fully decide how to respond, Queen Nott suddenly rises from her improvised throne.

"Nott agrees!" she announces triumphantly. "Friends helped Nott become queen. Boxes go with friends."

Yeemik exhales heavily through his nose, somewhere between annoyance and reluctant acceptance. After a moment, he gives a stiff nod and keeps quiet.

The thin goblin raises a finger weakly.

"But alliance still counts."

Queen Nott beams broadly.

"Yes! Cave tribe and surface friends now allies."

Several goblins nearby clap uncertainly, as the queen seems pleased.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 29, 2026 10:19 am

@Avraham Redhawk is outside with the wagon.

May 29, 2026 4:13 pm

Igrem smiles mildly when hearing Alex's argument. "This guy is good!" he thinks to himself, impressed. Seeing the positive reaction from the Queen, he answers: "The alliance still counts. We will spread the word."

He does not like goblins, but, in his mind, the queen deserves as much.

After a brief eye exchange with Alex, he goes on helping bring the cart near the boxes, and load it.

Last edited May 29, 2026 4:55 pm

May 29, 2026 6:38 pm

Alex doffs his plumed hat and bows deeply to Nott. Your most gracious majesty's beauty is only outshown by her wisdom! Our dealings, now and in the future, are bound by friendship and camaraderie. Let us load the wagon, and we will return to bid our farewells before we leave. Alex turns and follows Igrem out to help load the goods.

When they reach the outside and rejoin Redhawk and Boggart, Alex fills them in quickly—at least for him—on the discussion and decisions. Friends, he continues, if it is all right with you, may I take one of the hobgoblin short swords as my share of the first two dead and offer it to Yeemik and Nott as a gesture? I want to leave them thinking well of us, just in case we ever come back this way. I will abdicate any claim to the remainder, Alex finishes, despite knowing that shortbows fetch more than double that of short swords on the open market.

May 29, 2026 7:07 pm

Redhawk nods his approval"Good thought Alex."

May 30, 2026 2:37 am

"Oh, it shouldn't be long now," Boggart says to the goblin guards. No sooner had the words left his mouth than did Alex and Igrem emerge from the cavern. "Speak of fairies and they shall appear. My comrades! How'd it go?"

After being filled in, Boggart nods at Alex's suggestion. "I'm not opposed at all. Whatever we can do to help our friends defend their home."

May 30, 2026 10:09 am

"Do that, and let's be on our way. The sooner we go back to town, the better I will feel." answers Igrem to Alex's request.

May 30, 2026 4:04 pm

Soon afterward, the group begins hauling the recovered Lionshield crates out from deeper within the cave. Goblins watch curiously from side passages and ledges as boxes are loaded onto the wagon under Redhawk’s careful supervision. A few mutter among themselves about humans willingly carrying heavy things.

Before departing, Alex formally presents the hobgoblin blade to Yeemik and Queen Nott. The chief advisor accepts it with visible approval, testing the weapon’s balance before giving a grudging nod of respect.

Queen Nott, meanwhile, appears delighted.

"Good alliance gift!" she proclaims proudly from her throne.

Several goblins cheer. One asks if this means there will be more food later.

At last, with the wagon loaded and farewells exchanged, the party departs the cave. The goblin sentries outside step aside respectfully this time, even offering awkward nods as the wagon rolls past. Ahead lies the road back toward Phandalin.

OOC:

Rolling... Continues on my next post

Rolls

Random encounter?

May 30, 2026 4:06 pm

The return journey to Phandalin passes without further trouble. Whether because of caution, luck, or the thorough lesson taught to the hobgoblin patrol the previous night, no enemies emerge from the woods to challenge the group again.

By the following afternoon, the buildings of Phandalin once again come into view.

OOC:

What do you do?

May 31, 2026 2:44 am

Alex heads directly towards the coster, with laden wagon and mule in tow. Skipping almost gleefully into the establishment, he heads directly towards the counter. Mistress, despite many trials and tribulations, including bands of roaming hobgoblin scouts and tenuous nail-biting negotiations with goblin tribes, thanks to the determined and stalwart efforts of these good folk, here Alex gestures at whomever of the party followed him in, the goods were safely and secretly retrieved and await your review outside. Then, a bit more thoughtfully Alex adds Mistress, would you know if there is a Luckbringer in town, or at least a shrine to The Lady of the Glittering Dice? I feel a thanks offering is more than overdue on my part.

May 31, 2026 2:18 pm

Linene Graywind immediately calls for a pair of workers to begin unloading while turning back toward the party.

"A deal’s a deal. You’ve earned your payment."

Linene produces the promised coin without hesitation, then glances toward the assortment of captured hobgoblin gear still piled in the wagon.

"And if you’re planning to sell those weapons and bits of armor, I’d be interested," she adds. "Out here, equipment’s always useful. Especially with the roads getting more dangerous lately."

At Alex’s final question, her expression softens slightly.

"A Luckbringer? Aye, there’s one in town.Take this—no charge." She rummages beneath the counter for a moment before producing a simple hand-drawn map of Phandalin.

She points out several notable buildings and locations around town as she speaks.

"The shrine you’re looking for is small, but folk leave offerings there often. If you have questions about the rest of the town, I can likely help with that too."

OOC:

What do you do?

May 31, 2026 5:01 pm

OOC:

I forgot, what was our reward? 😳

May 31, 2026 5:52 pm

OOC:

Avraham says:

I forgot, what was our reward? 😳

50 gp from the (confirmed) location of the crates and you can keep the mule and the wagon (or, alternatively, get a horse) for the group.

May 31, 2026 9:30 pm

Alex thanks Mistress Greywind over and again, relieved to be in civilization where people—at least some—kept their words. Turning to his companions he asked Well, I gave my share to Yeemik and Nott, but the Mistress is honest and seems as if she’d give you a fair price should you wish to convert spoil to coin. Also, what say you all, horse or mule and wagon? Personally, I think the latter may be more useful, but perhaps we should see what Master Sildar has in mind for us first before we decide?

Jun 1, 2026 10:11 am

"We also made a mutual protection deal with the goblins in the cave where we retrieved the goods." says Igrem, who followed Alex, before leaving. "We have no certitude they will stick to it, but I thought you should know."

Last edited June 2, 2026 9:18 am

Jun 2, 2026 1:44 am

Boggart is wrastlin' with Puck as the coster business is concluded, and only half-disengages from their tussle to regard the group. "I've no use for the hob's spoils, so add my share to the pile. Ack, Puck! No fair!" It takes him a moment to reassert control again.

"As for choice of steed, haven't the foggiest which choice to make. Never needed to employ an animal so large, being a wee lad compared to you longshankses."

Last edited June 2, 2026 1:45 am

Jun 2, 2026 8:42 am

OOC:

Redhawk, what do you do?

Jun 2, 2026 10:53 pm

Linene listens to Igrem’s mention of the alliance with a raised eyebrow.

"An alliance with goblins," she says slowly. "Well… that’s certainly not something I hear every day."

She doesn’t sound mocking, exactly. More doubtful than anything else. After a moment, she shrugs.

"Still, if that keeps them from raiding travelers and attacking caravans, that alone would be an improvement over most arrangements around here."

Then she glances toward the wagon and mule outside.

"If you’re asking my recommendation, keep the mule and wagon."

She taps the counter for emphasis.

"A horse is faster, sure, and one of you can scout ahead —but a wagon earns coin. You can haul supplies, trade goods, weapons, wounded folk, camping gear… and if you’re planning to keep wandering into trouble, you’ll likely appreciate being able to carry loot here again."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 2, 2026 11:55 pm

Redhawk will listen to what is being said in silence. He will take whatever cut he gets and donate most of to an orphanage if there is one. Being a ranger he is not much into money. When it comes to horse or mule and wagon"It matters not much to me either way. I am used to walking everywhere I go."

Jun 3, 2026 3:54 am

Quote:

A horse is faster, sure, and one of you can scout ahead —but a wagon earns coin. You can haul supplies, trade goods, weapons, wounded folk, camping gear… and if you’re planning to keep wandering into trouble, you’ll likely appreciate being able to carry loot here again."

Boggart contemplates this while Puck gnaws on his boot. "Hm...I reckon she's got a point, there. What if we go a-questing and find a trove? I can only stuff so much treasure down my trousers, you know." He chuckles, amused at the thought.

Jun 3, 2026 8:55 am

Igrem takes his share, shrugs back at Linene when she mentions the arrangement with the goblins and tends to agree with her concerning the wagon. "You are probably right, that would be more useful. What do you say, folks, do we keep the wagon and mule?" he asks around to his companions.

OOC:

Should we consider Alex's gift to Nott a shared expense of, say 10gp, and partake the remaining 40 four ways?

Jun 3, 2026 9:27 am

OOC:

Quote:

Should we consider Alex's gift to Nott a shared expense of, say 10gp, and partake the remaining 40 four ways?

As, if I understand correctly, you also sold the hobgoblin’s loot to Linene and that's what Alex gave up...

Alex gets 12 gold, 5 silver. Then, each of you gets 23 gold, 5 silver, with Redhawk donating that to an orphanage.

What do you do?

Jun 3, 2026 11:28 am

Alex gratefully accepts his share from Mistress Greywind. Thank you kindly, especially for your words of advice. Turning to the party he says I think we better bring ourselves, and Gertrude outside, pointing in the general direction of the mule, to Master Sildar posthaste. I will head there myself, after I make an offering to the Lady. Will anyone be coming with me, or shall I meet you at the inn?

Jun 3, 2026 3:12 pm

"I'll accompany you," Boggart says with a smile. He's been curious about Alex's Lady since hearing him offer her prayers whilst out and about. "We'll be quiet as a field mouse. Won't we, Puck?" The luminous pine martin climbs into Boggart's shoulders like an oversized stole.

Jun 4, 2026 12:23 am

OOC:

Redhawk, Igrem, what do you do?

Jun 4, 2026 8:53 am

Redhawk will look to the others"I am off to make a donation to the local orphanage. I will catch up with you at the inn."

Jun 4, 2026 9:45 am

Igrem joins Alex going to the inn.

Jun 5, 2026 12:31 am

Watching Redhawk stride off to the orphanage, Alex turns to Igrem and Boggart and says I guess that means we take Gertrude with us to the shrine and then the inn. Alex actually isn't sure if the mule is male or female, but unless proven otherwise, Gertrude it is.

Glancing at the map given to him by Mistress Greywind, Alex proceeds towards the shrine, making soothing noises to the mule as she draws the wagon. Turning left and heading north, the Shrine of Luck comes in to view.

OOC:

What does Alex see when he gets to the shrine?

Jun 5, 2026 1:00 am

Phandalin’s only temple is modest—little more than a small stone shrine assembled from blocks salvaged from the ancient ruins surrounding the town. Moss clings between the old stones, and colorful ribbons, copper coins, carved charms, and simple offerings hang from nearby posts and branches. Though humble, the place feels cared for. Peaceful, even.

At the center stands a small open alcove containing a polished symbol of Tymora: a silver-faced coin marked with the smiling profile of the Lady of Good Fortune while fresh flowers rest at its base.

As the group approaches, a young elf woman greets you. She wears simple but well-kept robes of blue and silver, with bright and welcoming green eyes.

She inclines her head and smiles.

"Welcome to the Shrine of Luck," she says warmly. "I am Sister Garaele, caretaker of this humble place and servant of Lady Tymora."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 5, 2026 3:30 am

Alex strokes Gertrude's neck lightly and whispers "stay here, girl; I'll be back soon." Walking reverently up to the shrine, Alex stops, bows to Sister Garaele, and says "Hail, Luckbringer!" Reaching into his coin pouch, Alex pulls out not a silver, but a full gold, and makes it dance across his fingers, the sunlight turning into a rich yellow reflection across his hand. Flipping it elegantly to the priestess, he says "I have much for which to thank our Lady of the Diamond-Glitter Dice," and follows it with the classic Tymoran prayer: "a copper to the Lady returns tenfold in gold."

Jun 5, 2026 8:54 am

She inclines her head respectfully toward Alex and the others.

"Tymora favors the bold, though she rarely makes the road easy for them. Know that your offering is appreciated, both by this shrine and by the Lady herself. May luck continue to smile upon your paths."

She carefully adds the gold coin to the shrine’s offerings before turning back toward the group with a more thoughtful expression. She studies your travel-worn clothing, battered armor and weapons...

"As it happens, I may know of a task requiring courage… and perhaps a certain talent for persuasion and flattering difficult people."

She glances between the companions.

"If you are willing to hear more, I would gladly explain."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 5, 2026 9:20 am

"Sounds like what we have been doing since we arrived in the vicinity... with some success it seems. Let's hear it." answers Igrem, looking interested.

Jun 5, 2026 9:30 am

Sister Garaele nods appreciatively at Igrem’s answer and motions for the group to step a little closer to the shrine, away from the muddy street and passing townsfolk.

"Recently," she begins quietly, "some patrons of mine entrusted me with a rather delicate mission. They seek the location of a spellbook once belonging to a legendary mage named Bowgentle. The trouble is that the only being known to possess this knowledge is a banshee named Agatha."

She pauses briefly before continuing.

"Agatha dwells alone in an old ruined place not far from here. I sought her out myself, hoping to persuade her to answer my questions… but, suffice to say, it didn't work."

Sister Garaele reaches carefully into a nearby satchel and withdraws a beautifully crafted silver comb set with small jewels that glitter softly in the sunlight.

"Agatha was vain in life," the elf explains. "Very vain, according to some tales. I believe an intermediary—someone possessing both courage, tact and… this… might succeed where I failed."

Her eyes drift meaningfully toward Alex for a brief moment.

"If presented properly, this comb may please her enough to earn a single truthful answer regarding Bowgentle’s spellbook."

A pause

"I will not pretend the task is safe. Agatha is a banshee, and such spirits are unpredictable. But if you are willing to attempt this on my behalf, I can offer you 3 healing potions and my gratitude."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 5, 2026 2:47 pm

Alex eyes light up at the prospect of serving his patron. Then suddenly, his face falls. Turning to the two comrades near him he says while I would thrilled to serve my Lady in any way she needs me, we told Master Sildar we would be back today and meet him in the inn. We must keep our words, no? Perhaps we can prevail on his patience yet again, but I, for one, would not want to be known as one who promises rashly and insincerely."

Jun 5, 2026 11:42 pm

Were Boggart the same size as Alex, he'd clasp him on the shoulder; alas, he will have to settle for his thigh, instead. "Worry not, friend Alex. We can decide our course of action after listening to Sildar's proposal. Your piety is commendable."

The gnome turns to Sister Garaele and bows. "Hail, sister. I am Boggart Frimble, devoted of Mielikki. May I offer gifts from the Lady of the Woods?"

Jun 6, 2026 12:23 am

"Of course! The Lady of Forests and Lady Luck have long stood as friends to travelers, wanderers, and those who survive by courage and good fortune alike. All goodly gods are honored in this place. Phandalin is small, and folk here often pray to whichever divine power watches closest over their lives."

Then, glancing back toward Alex and Igrem, she nods thoughtfully.

"And your concern for keeping your word does you credit. Speak with whoever you wish. Agatha has haunted her ruin for many years already; a little longer will not matter."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 6, 2026 3:16 am

Boggart's smile is a beam of sunlight. "Many thanks, sister."

The Lady of the Woods' Shepherd approaches the altar and kneels, placing his hands upon the earth, and speaks:

"Mielikki, Lady of the Woods, Daughter to Silvanus, Queen of the Forest, to thee I raise my voice. Let your blessings be upon this altar, and those who offer obeisance to it; give your favor to those who range to protect the forests, to the woodsman who tend it, and those seeking passage through your realm. Let all know of the bonds of friendship between the Lady of Fortune and the Lady of the Woods, and receive their bounty and protection. Let it be so."

A gentle breeze whips up luminous autumn leaves which swirls about on golden wind around the altar. Where it passes, grass and flowers bloom. Vines rise up on either side of the altar, from which hang silver petals in the shapes of coins entwined with others that look like the heads of unicorns with blue horns. All about there is the fluttering of pale butterflies.

Boggart stands once more and bows before rejoining his comrades. "I'm glad we came here." He smiles.

Last edited June 7, 2026 6:23 pm

Jun 7, 2026 9:57 am

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

Jun 8, 2026 10:26 am

Igrem considers the words of Sister Garaele, then, reacting to Alex's concern, says: "Let's go meet Master Sildar. We can always go to this Agatha banshee later." turning to the Sister again, he asks: "Can we get the comb now? Or should we pass by here again later when we decide to pursue this endeavor?"

Jun 8, 2026 9:46 pm

Sister Garaele shakes her head apologetically at Igrem’s question, carefully returning the jeweled silver comb to its padded case.

"I would prefer to keep the comb here until you are truly ready to undertake the task," she explains gently. "It is valuable, both materially and… diplomatically."

A faint smile crosses her face.

"And truthfully, I would ask some form of collateral before entrusting it to wandering adventurers. No offense intended."

With respectful farewells exchanged and Boggart’s blessings accepted warmly, the group departs the Shrine of Luck and makes their way back through the streets of Phandalin toward the Stonehill Inn.

However, upon arriving there, you quickly learn that Sildar Hallwinter is no longer spending his time at the inn. Toblen Stonehill cheerfully informs you that the veteran has already begun establishing himself at the Townmaster’s Hall.

"Seems he’s an important fellow."

The innkeeper lowers his voice slightly.

"Been talking with the townmaster, asking questions, trying to bring a bit more order to Phandalin from the look of it."

Apparently, Sildar has wasted little time making himself useful in town.

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 9, 2026 2:41 pm

"Maybe we should go the Townmaster's hall? If you think that is the proper time to do it, that is." ponders Igrem, talking to Alex and the other party members.

Jun 9, 2026 8:35 pm

Redhawk sees his companions enter and waves them over. After they sit and get some drinks he asks"Do you think we have to make an appointment to see the Townmaster?" He just shrugs because it is all new to him.

Jun 9, 2026 9:09 pm

Alex agrees with Ingrem. "We should follow him to the town hall and keep our words. If he has need of us, we can decide then whether or not to commit, return to the Luckbringer, or even go our own ways."

Jun 10, 2026 12:28 am

The discussion continues over mugs of drink and a much-needed chance to sit somewhere that isn't a goblin cave, forest floor, or wagon bench.

Redhawk's question earns a few shrugs around the table. None of you have much experience with Phandalin’s town officials, and the idea of making an appointment to speak with a townmaster seems equally plausible and absurd depending on how you look at it.

Still, like Alex said, a promise is a promise.

With drinks finished and no better plan presenting itself, the group gathers their gear and makes their way through the muddy streets of Phandalin toward the Townmaster's Hall.

The townmaster’s hall has sturdy stone walls, a pitched wooden roof, and a bell tower at the back. Posted on a board next to the front door is a notice written in Common. It reads:

"REWARD—Orcs near Wyvern Tor! Those of a mind to face the orc menace should inquire within."

The notice bears the town’s seal and an indecipherable signature.

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 10, 2026 2:34 am

"Hobgoblins, banshees, orcs," Boggart says, putting up a finger for each threat, "and the business with master Sildar. Phandalin sure has it's hands full. It's a good thing we're here to help."

"Well, no point in dilly-dally, I reckon. Might as well get the full picture, as it were." He grins, a bounce in his step despite danger closing in on all sides.

Jun 10, 2026 1:16 pm

Igrem nods at Boggart, while trying to open the front door and step into the town hall.

Jun 10, 2026 1:43 pm

Alex is uncharacteristically quiet as he reads the notice. Nodding at Igrem and Boggart’s words, he follows them in, pensively.

Jun 10, 2026 9:15 pm

Redhawk will follow the others. Seeing the notice he thinks to himself The only good orc is a dead orc. His village had many fights with orc raiders through the years.

Jun 11, 2026 8:30 am

The interior of the Townmaster's Hall is clean and functional. Sturdy stone walls keep the building cool despite the afternoon sun outside, and the furnishings are simple: a few benches, a large table cluttered with papers, ledgers, and ink pots.

A narrow staircase leads upward to private offices and records, while another descends into the cellar below.

You quickly realize that Phandalin has no true government. The town is too small and too isolated for that. In fact, the townsfolk elect a townmaster each year to settle minor disputes, keep records, and handle whatever administration a frontier settlement requires, but there isn't a noble Baron or significant officials yet — judges, captains and guildmasters are nowhere to be seen.

At the rear of the hall, seated behind a desk that seems to strain under both paperwork and its owner's presence, is a round-faced human man in expensive but slightly ill-fitting clothes. His thinning hair is carefully combed, his fingers glitter with rings, and he appears to be deeply occupied with the important business of reading a document while avoiding eye contact with anyone who might require actual work.

Nearby, you spot another familiar figure.

Sildar Hallwinter stands beside a table covered with maps and reports, speaking with a local clerk. Unlike the other man, he immediately notices your arrival. A smile crosses his face.

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 11, 2026 9:42 am

Igrem smiles back at Sildar and approaches. "Sildar, it is so good to see you! You are now obviously a notability in this town." he says, before engaging in small talk. He half expects Alex to start talking about the serious stuff.

Jun 11, 2026 9:57 am

Redhawk will move to get a glance at the maps. He has always loved looking at maps.

Jun 11, 2026 7:50 pm

Alex steps forward and addresses Sildar. "Our thanks for your patience, Master Sildar," he begins. "We successfully restored the coster's goods after a brief interlude with a squad of roving hobgoblin raiders." At this point, he turns to the seated man and interjects "that reminds me, TownMaster, you should know that hobgoblins are roaming the environs. Is that regular, or does this portend Maglubiyet," and here Alex spits, "riling up his minions?"

Jun 11, 2026 8:16 pm

Igrem says:

"Sildar, it is so good to see you! You are now obviously a notability in this town."

"My friends," he says. "I was beginning to wonder when you would return."

Alex says:

Our thanks for your patience, Master Sildar. We successfully restored the coster's goods after a brief interlude with a squad of roving hobgoblin raiders. that reminds me, TownMaster, you should know that hobgoblins are roaming the environs. Is that regular, or does this portend Maglubiyet,riling up his minions?

"Allow me to make introductions." Sildar says, smiling warmly as he gestures toward the rotund man behind the desk.

"This is Harbin Wester, elected Townmaster of Phandalin."

Harbin looks up from his papers, gives a dignified nod that somehow manages to be both self-important and distracted, and then folds his hands atop a ledger.

Near Sildar is a young man in plain but neat clothing, perhaps in his late teens or early twenties. Ink stains mark his fingers.

"And this," Sildar continues, "is Ander. Master Wester's assistant and clerk."

The young man offers a polite bow.

"A pleasure," he says.

At Alex's mention of the hobgoblins, Harbin's attention sharpens considerably.

"Unfortunately, that is hardly the only trouble these days."

The Townmaster gestures vaguely toward the maps spread across the nearby table, where Redhawk has wandered.

"The truth is that more than a few bandits, brigands, and other unsavory sorts have settled throughout the region. They take advantage of the simple fact that there is no local lord here, no standing authority beyond what little we can maintain ourselves."

He pauses and glances toward Sildar.

"Phandalin is prosperous enough to attract attention, but not powerful enough to discourage it."

Sildar places a hand upon the map spread before him.

"Which is precisely why I wished to speak with all of you." He looks around at the party, then his finger traces a route across the map. "You've already done much for me, but I believe there is still work that needs doing. You should keep up the pressure on the Cragmaw Goblins. I offer each of you a new and improved set of armor if you promise to locate Cragmaw Castle and defeat or drive off the tribe's chieftain"

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 12, 2026 2:18 am

"Dangers upon dangers! It was too much to hope that the poor town would be in need of something so simple as extra hands for the harvest." Boggart laughs, standing on a chair to get a good look at the maps with Redhawk.

"What if we befriend these gobs, same as the ones in the cave? Would that be satisfactory?"

Sildar Hallwinter

Jun 12, 2026 8:38 am

"I saw your negotiation with Nott, so, yes, if they could truly be persuaded to abandon raiding and serve a more peaceful purpose, I would count that a victory," he says.

"Indeed, my concern is not merely goblins existing in the woods. It is an organized threat that kidnaps, raids, and murders with impunity."

Harbin Wester clears his throat from behind the desk.

"And steals tax revenue," he adds.

Sildar politely ignores him.

"If you can resolve the matter peacefully, I will not object," he tells Boggart. "But I ask you to be realistic. A handful of reasonable goblins does not mean the entire tribe shares Queen Nott’s… unusual diplomacy."

OOC:

What do you do?

Sildar Hallwinter

Jun 12, 2026 8:47 pm

Alex smiles at Boggart's naturally good nature. "Boggart, dear chap, I think Master Harbin has the right of it here. Nott took advantage of our presence to remove and depose Klarg, who could have killed her without breaking a sweat. New to her role she was not in position to take us on. The rampaging hordes are much more akin to the hobgoblins who used us for target practice last night. The only negotiations in which they would be interested is whether or not to kill us before cooking us, or vice versa."

Turning to the aforementioned town master, Alex continued "Master Harbin, before we accept, we would need some idea as to the numbers, geographic locations, defenses, and other pertinent intelligence." Continuing with his patented slightly cheeky but engaging grin, Alex finishes with "While even those of us for whom plate mail is more an encumbrance could benefit from new arms and armor, we need to be alive to see that benefit, do we not?"

Jun 12, 2026 9:19 pm

OOC:

Sorry if it wasn't clear, but it was Sildar speaking. Let's assume Alex used his name.

Jun 13, 2026 2:30 am

Boggart strokes his chin with his thumb and sighs. "I fear you speak the truth. I ask only that we consider it, should that path be open to us." He gives his glowing companion a scritch under the chin, and all troubles are soon forgotten.

Jun 13, 2026 9:10 am

Quote:

"Master Sildar, before we accept, we would need some idea as to the numbers, geographic locations, defenses, and other pertinent intelligence. While even those of us for whom plate mail is more an encumbrance could benefit from new arms and armor, we need to be alive to see that benefit, do we not?"

"Unfortunately I don't have the precise location of Cragmaw Castle or their other strongholds, if any. Intelligence gathering would be part of the job." said Sildar.

"Ahem", interrupted Harbin. "For the orcs, though, I do have their location. Just head east through the Triboar Trail and you will see Wyvern Tor. It can be seen from twenty miles away and is impossible to miss. If you're willing to take care of them, I can offer 100 gp for your party as a reward.", said the townmaster.

OOC:

Sildar is offering a quest for the goblins and Harbin for the orcs.

What do you do?

Jun 13, 2026 11:17 am

Redhawk listens as he studies the map"Both need killing as far as I am concerned. Which is the more urgent?"

Jun 13, 2026 7:51 pm

Despite his experience, reputation, and obvious competence, Sildar deliberately gives Harbin Wester the floor whenever matters of local authority arise. Whether out of genuine respect for the office or some political calculation connected to the Lord's Alliance, he is careful not to overshadow the elected townmaster in his own hall.

Harbin, for his part, seems to enjoy this arrangement immensely.

Redhawk says:

"Both need killing as far as I am concerned. Which is the more urgent?"

The townmaster puffs himself up slightly in his chair.

"The orcs are a known threat," he says. "We know where they are. We know roughly how many there are. They have been sighted near Wyvern Tor repeatedly."

Sildar nods in agreement.

"Master Wester is correct. The Cragmaws remain dangerous, but they are presently an unknown quantity. We do not know the location of their castle, the strength of their defenses, or how many warriors remain under their chieftain. Meanwhile, any intelligence you gather while traveling could prove useful in locating Cragmaw Castle later."

Harbin nods vigorously.

"Precisely! Kill the orcs, collect your hundred gold pieces, and make the roads safer for honest folk."

On the map before you, Wyvern Tor stands marked northeast of Phandalin, beyond the Triboar Trail. It will take you 2 or 3 days to get there.

OOC:

I plan to add this map soon. Either way, you have its location.

What do you do?

Jun 14, 2026 6:52 pm

OOC:

Here is the map

Jun 14, 2026 11:01 pm

Alex ponders a bit and then responds. "Well, Master Harbin, you make some good points. Better to address the foe about which more is known, and in the process, perhaps gain intelligence on the other. Therefore, in the interests of success and survival, would you kindly let us know roughly how many orcs would you say there are? Do they have a known chieftain as well? Are they more active by day or by night? How are they armed and armored? All this information will help us to determine our needed supplies and plan of attack."

Jun 14, 2026 11:40 pm

"The reports mostly come from farmers and merchants north of town," he says. "The most anyone has seen at one time was about half a dozen orcs."

Ander consults a few notes and nods.

"Three separate sightings over the past several tendays."

Harbin raises a finger.

"Now, that doesn't necessarily mean there are only six. There could be a few more lurking around Wyvern Tor. Eight, perhaps a dozen. But I would be surprised if it were a much larger band than that." said the townmaster.

Sildar listens quietly while Harbin continues.

"As for leadership, none of the reports mention a chief by name. Their equipment appears crude. Heavy chopping swords, axes, clubs. A few have been seen wearing leather armor, but certainly not all of them. They're raiders and pillagers, not soldiers."

"Most sightings have been after sunset," Ander adds. "Farmers returning late from their fields. Shepherds checking livestock. One hunter reported hearing them moving through the hills shortly after midnight."

Sildar folds his arms and says:

"If the reports are accurate, a capable group such as yourselves should have a reasonable chance of success—provided you approach the matter intelligently. What's your plan?"

Jun 15, 2026 3:03 am

"Our plan, Master Sildar? Well, we are neither so experienced nor overconfident to have a plan on the spot to vanquish a foe three times our number and probably six time our collective weight. What we have are a unique collection of skills. Skills we have acquired over a set of very short careers. Skills that make us potentially a nuisance for creatures like orcs." Here Alex shrugs and continues "Or, it could make us orc fodder. Either way. What we will do, I hope—" and here Alex looks at his companions, "is to carefully review the map and the intelligence you provided, and then pool our various expertise in hunting, tracking, woodcraft, stealth, reconnaissance, and the arcane arts to come up with a workable plan."

Jun 15, 2026 9:19 am

OOC:

Redhawk, Igrem, Boggart, what do you do?

Jun 15, 2026 9:45 am

Looking at the map"I say we travel by road to make better time until we reach these farms. The farmers should be able to provide with enough information to point us in the right direction. Then I will look around for tracks and what not to find them and maybe set up an ambush for them."

Jun 15, 2026 1:28 pm

"We can inquire about the orcs. We can go there and scout the area of their headquarter. We can trap some of them for interrogation. But I wonder, if they prove to be too numerous for us four, what additional force are you willing to commit to this task?" asks Igrem, while thinking aloud.

Jun 15, 2026 2:45 pm

Alex listens to Redhawk and Igrem as they respond. "Master Redhawk, you are an accomplished tracker. We would all benefit from your wisdom in this matter."

Turning to Igrem, Alex continues, "Master Igrem, I think it would be foolhardy for us to face the orcs directly. I am no expert, but orcs are significantly more dangerous than goblins. More akin to the hobgoblins whose ambush nearly did us, or at least me, in. I would suggest we approach in stealth and try as we can to pick them off one by one or two by two, in such a way as to not alert the others. Our chances of success climb dramatically for each creature we remove from the final scrum. Orcish discipline is certainly lacking in comparison with that of hobgoblins, and I think we should be able to eliminate a handful before we finally commit."

Turning back to Redhawk and Boggart, Alex asks "Master Woodsman and Forest Friend, what say you?"

Jun 15, 2026 10:15 pm

"Makes sense to me," Boggart says with a shrug. "No point in sticking your neck out for a chopper unless necessary. I'm in favor of traps and deceit when needed. A shame we won't be closer to the woods...Perhaps the farmers will be able to help us in some way?"

Sildar Hallwinter

Jun 15, 2026 11:01 pm

Sildar folds his arms and studies the map.

"I agree with your assessment," he says to Alex. "A direct assault against a group of orcs in their own territory would be unwise. Especially if their true numbers remain uncertain."

His finger traces the road north from Phandalin.

"The farms around Wyvern Tor are spread out, and the terrain consists of rolling hills, rocky outcroppings, and patches of scrubland. If the orcs have been raiding, they must travel between the tor and the farms."

Now Harbin nods eagerly.

"Which means you don't necessarily have to start the attack at their camp." says the townmaster.

"Precisely," Sildar continues. "You might observe them first. Learn their habits and numbers. Determine when they leave their lair and where they travel. An ambush along a road, trail, or hillside could allow you to engage them on favorable terms."

Ander adds, "The farmers may know more than we do. Which fields have been targeted. What direction the orcs usually come from. Whether they travel in large groups or almost alone."

"If you're preparing for such an expedition, I'd suggest acquiring supplies beforehand. Rations certainly. Perhaps hunting gear, rope, or traps. The merchants in town should have what you need," Sildar says. "Barthen's Provisions carries most general supplies. The Lionshield Coster can provide equipment as well. And if any of you are proficient with bows, a fight against orcs is exactly the sort of battle where attacking from concealment and at range can make the difference."

OOC:

What do you do?

Sildar Hallwinter

Jun 16, 2026 12:04 am

Redhawk nods"Ambush and concealment are surely the way to go. Maybe one of the farmers will let us use a barn for a base." He will then look at Harbin"Will you help supply us? Surely the town can provide some supplies."

Rolls

GM edit: Influence - (1d20+3, RA)

(2019) + 3 = 42

Jun 17, 2026 12:12 am

"Sure, I think that would increase your chances of success. What can we offer you?" said Harbin, unusually generous.

Jun 17, 2026 1:40 am

"Well, Master Harbin, we do not want to be greedy, but perhaps some kind of trap or two. One which would restrain or hobble a wandering orc, providing us the opportunity for interrogation, culling their numbers, or both. Some rope may be good as well." Turning to his companions, Alex says "We can keep it in the wagon with Gertrude." Remembering the small jade frog he has been carrying for a few days, Alex turns back to Master Harbin and asks "Is there an appraiser of Objet d'art in town? I am saving up for a rapier and am looking to convert some of our findings into coin."

Jun 17, 2026 9:50 am

Redhawk will nod at Alex's comment"A few bear traps would be good and yes some extra rope. You can never have to much rope. Maybe a couple of spare bows and some arrows in case one of our bows should break oh yes and a couple of bow strings. Maybe some extra rations also. Thinking for a second"Is there a farmer who is kind of the head out there or one who might work with us?"

Last edited June 17, 2026 9:50 am

Jun 17, 2026 1:08 pm

Igrem does not see anything to add to what his companions requested, and simply waits for the answer.

Jun 18, 2026 3:19 am

Boggart, likewise, waits and listens.

Jun 18, 2026 9:58 pm

Harbin listens to the growing list of supplies with an expression that suggests he is mentally calculating how much all of this would cost if adventurers had to pay for it themselves.

Fortunately for everyone involved, he seems to have already decided that dead orcs are worth a modest investment.

"Hmm. Sensible requests."

He reaches for a sheet of parchment and quickly scribbles several lines before stamping it with the town seal.

"There."

He hands the note to Redhawk.

"Take this to Mistress Graywind at the Lionshield Coster. It authorizes the loan of a few necessities. Please return what survives the expedition."

Two bear traps, fifty feet of rope, and a spare bowstring,

At Alex's question regarding the jade frog, Harbin shakes his head.

"An appraiser? Not specifically."

"Phandalin isn't quite large enough for specialists," Ander explains. "If anyone here can give you a fair assessment, it would be Linene Graywind. She deals with merchants, trade goods, valuables, and caravan cargo every day."

Sildar nods in agreement.

"She is honest, competent, and accustomed to judging the value of unusual items. I doubt you'll find anyone better in Phandalin."

Redhawk's question about the local farmers earns a thoughtful look from Harbin.

"If you're looking for someone who keeps an eye on what's happening beyond the immediate outskirts of town, speak with Narth Tezrin."

Ander points to a location on the map, some distance south of the Triboar Trail.

"He lives about two day's travel from here. You can't miss the place—a farmhouse painted green with a large barn beside it." Harbin adds. "There are signs pointing the way, so travelers stop there from time to time, and he gets a lot of local news. If the orcs have been active recently, there's a good chance he knows where they've been seen."

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 18, 2026 10:16 pm

Looking at the paper he was handed after reading it"Could add some arrows to list? If we are going to ambushing and keeping our distance we will need them."

Jun 19, 2026 12:42 am

"Yeah, yeah..." said Harbin, adding a few dozen arrows to the list.

OOC:

We won't actually track ammunition, but it makes sense to add them to the list. In Nimble, if you have a quiver, you have enough arrows. Assume the hero collects fired arrows, crafts more, or buys them in town in the background.

Jun 19, 2026 2:40 am

OOC:

I need a rest in a safe place to regain HD and lose one wound :)

"Thank you kindly, Master Harbin and Master Sildar; we will prepare ourselves, rest at the inn, and head out early in the morning." Turning to his companions, Alex says "I am going to head back to Mistress Graywind at the coster and then to the Lady's Shrine to offer my apologies to the Luckbringer, in that we cannot head out on her mission immediately. For that matter, should we take Gertrude with us, or travel lightly and stealthily over the week or so this mission should take us?"

Jun 19, 2026 10:09 pm

Igrem, I believe you don't like sleeping in the wilderness any more days than absolutely necessary, am I right?

OOC:

Boggart, Igrem, Redhawk, what do you do?

Jun 19, 2026 11:11 pm

Redhawk will follow Alex and also go for a nights sleep. "I think we should take the wagon. Less for us to carry on our person and it will get us up off the ground at night. I will be able to move and track better if I am less burdened."

Jun 21, 2026 12:07 am

With plans made and supplies arranged, the meeting at the Townmaster's Hall comes to an end. Sildar wishes you luck and ask you to talk to him after your quest, while Harbin seems relieved that someone will be dealing with the orc problem.

The afternoon passes quickly.

Alex, you return first to the Lionshield Coster, where Linene Graywind reviews the townmaster's note and gives you two sturdy hunting traps, a coil of rope, and a spare bowstring. Those items soon find their place in the wagon.

As for the jade frog, Linene examines it carefully, turning it over in her hands and testing the workmanship.

"It's genuine jade," she concludes. "Nicely carved, too. Nothing legendary, mind you, but certainly worth coin to the right buyer."

OOC:

Alex, please gimme an Influence roll and feel free to roleplay for Graywind. Describe the results according to this table:

Influence check result	Sold for
8 or less	20 gp
8-12	25 gp
12-15	30 gp
16-19	40 gp
20+	50 gp

We will fast forward here, following your OOC note.

From there, Alex makes his way once more to the Shrine of Luck.

When Alex explains to Sister Garaele that duty to the town has delayed any immediate journey to seek Agatha, the young elf merely smiles.

"There is no offense to forgive."

As dusk settles over Phandalin, Alex and Redhawk eventually return to the Stonehill Inn. The wagon is secured, Gertrude is fed and watered, and after a hot meal the group retires for a much-needed night's sleep.

The night passes peacefully.

OOC:

Everyone can take a Safe Rest.

Boggart, please describe where did you spend the night, and what were you up to while the others sold the frog and slept at the Stonehill Inn. Were you with them?

Same for Igrem =)

[ +- ] Safe Rest

Jun 21, 2026 4:00 am

OOC:

Rolling

Apparently, either Alex has successfully embellished the provenance of the frog or the mistress has pity on him, for he walks out with 50 gold pieces. As he leaves, he asks "Is there a sword smith in town who can craft a rapier? My style leans more toward the quick sting of the bee than the heavy thrust of the bull."

Last edited June 21, 2026 4:04 am

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+4, RA)

(17) + 4 = 21

Jun 21, 2026 9:12 pm

Avraham says:

Turning to his companions, Alex says "I am going to head back to Mistress Graywind at the coster and then to the Lady's Shrine to offer my apologies to the Luckbringer, in that we cannot head out on her mission immediately. For that matter, should we take Gertrude with us, or travel lightly and stealthily over the week or so this mission should take us?"

"As we have the beast, why not take her with us? But here's where we part for the night; I've some business to take care of before I lay me down. I'll see you all anon!" Boggart said, then bounded off with Puck at his heels.

He skipped towards the tree line as soon as he broke line of sight with his companions, no longer able to stifle his urge to be amongst the woods with no one watching. He learned long ago that some people found it rude that being apart from the wilderness filled him with a growing sense of unease, and so he schooled his reactions for as long as he could.

Puck chattered at Boggart. "Almost there, old friend," he replied. Finally they were beneath a canopy of leaves once more, and a weight that had been pressing down of Boggart lifted, and he sighed in relief. This was where he belonged, not in some hut in a village (or worse, a city). He wandered, letting instinct guide his step, for that was how the Lady often spoke to him. She guided him through her domain as the day grew hazy and the eventide turned the shadows of the woods into a different place altogether.

Soon he traveled only by the light of the moon, the stars, and fireflies, and there came upon holy ground - a grove with an ancient oak upon a hill around which flowed a brook of clear, cool water. Moonlight revealed a path of soft grass and moss that lead up to the oak, and he knelt beneath it and clasped his hands around the icon of his goddess. Boggart filled his heart with a silent prayer to Mielikki, Queen of the Forest, for all the truest prayers are spoken not with words.

There he knelt until he was sure his prayer was received. Nestled beneath the boughs of the elder oak grew a bed of heather, and Boggart soon found himself laying upon it. Curled up next to him was Puck. As he drifted off, in the liminal space between waking and Nod, the blurry form of a unicorn could just barely be seen.

Last edited June 21, 2026 11:33 pm

Jun 22, 2026 4:22 pm

Igrem does nothing fancy in the evening, being accustomed to bigger towns. He only mildly inquires about the presence of a mage or magical authority in Phandalin, then goes to the inn to eat, rest, meditate a bit about the events of the day and do his usual studies, preparing himself for the day to come.

Jun 22, 2026 11:37 pm

Alex says:

"Is there a sword smith in town who can craft a rapier? My style leans more toward the quick sting of the bee than the heavy thrust of the bull."

"I can sell you one for 60 gp," said Linene.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Quote:

Igrem mildly inquires about the presence of a mage or magical authority in Phandalin

None that the people of the village know of.

Gathered around the wagon, maps and supplies spread before you, you study the terrain leading east from Phandalin.

There are two obvious ways to reach the farms near Wyvern Tor. Maybe more, if you are creative.

The Triboar Trail
The first option is simple. Just follow the road.

The Triboar Trail is well-traveled by local standards, allowing the wagon to move quickly and comfortably. Gertrude would appreciate the easier footing, and the journey would likely be faster overall.

The disadvantages are equally obvious.

Anyone watching the road can see travelers from a considerable distance away. If the orcs, bandits, or other hostile creatures maintain patrols, scouts or lookouts, your approach may be observed long before you reach the area.

Likewise, if you encounter trouble, there may be little cover nearby.

The Hills and Shrublands
The second option is to leave the road entirely. The country between Phandalin and Wyvern Tor consists of rolling hills, scattered copses of trees, rocky outcroppings, and stretches of scrubby brush.

Traveling through this terrain would be slower, particularly with a wagon, but it offers many advantages.

For one, you would be harder to spot. Redhawk would have greater opportunities to track movement through the area and the numerous ridges and hills could provide excellent observation points from which to scout the farms and the approaches to Wyvern Tor.

Of course, the same terrain that hides you can also hide whatever else lives out there. And if the wagon becomes stuck, progress could become frustratingly slow.

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 23, 2026 12:30 am

OOC:

I vote off road.

Jun 23, 2026 12:35 am

OOC:

In the interests of time, I buy the rapier. Will the coster take something off if I trade in the short sword? Once that is done, I will have gone to the shrine, head to the inn, eat supper and go to sleep. How much is a night’s room and board?

Jun 23, 2026 12:36 am

mathias0077 says:

OOC:

I vote off road.

OOC:

Seconded

Jun 23, 2026 1:22 am

Avraham says:

mathias0077 says:

OOC:

I vote off road.

OOC:

Seconded

OOC:

Thirded

Jun 23, 2026 9:19 am

Redhawk, your donation to rhe orphanage grants you free meals and a room at the Inn. Boggart's Survivalist trait also grants him free "meals" and "lodgings".

Alex, Linene Graywind buys your shortsword for 5 gp.

Alex, Igrem, meals and lodgings cost 1 gp.

After a brief discussion, the party agrees to leave the Triboar Trail behind and travel through the surrounding hills and scrublands instead.

Redhawk leads the way, picking routes that take advantage of ridgelines, patches of brush, and scattered stands of trees. Gertrude occasionally voices her opinion about these choices with indignant snorts whenever the terrain becomes particularly uneven.

OOC:

Redhawk, gimme a Naturecraft roll, please

The countryside rolls away around you in waves of green and brown. Clumps of thorny shrubs dot the hillsides, while isolated trees cast long shadows in the morning sun. Here and there, rocky outcroppings rise from the earth.

Meanwhile, Igrem's knowledge and learning may prove valuable during the journey. The mage could draw upon his lore to identify local landmarks, recall stories about Wyvern Tor and its history or recognize signs of old ruins and forgotten roads.

OOC:

Lore check, please.

The rolling terrain and countless patches of brush make it impossible for Redhawk to watch every direction at once while leading the group.

Boggart, with his familiarity with the wilderness and his habit of noticing things others overlook, could serve as the party's lookout.

OOC:

Roll perception, please

Last but not least, Alex could fall into the role of supporting one of the others—helping guide the mule through difficult terrain, keeping an eye on the party's supplies and equipment or do something else entirely.

OOC:

Alex, what do you do?

Jun 23, 2026 9:30 am

Redhawk is not as familiar with this type of terrain but as they progress it gets easier to spot tracks left by others be it animal or humanoid. He gets more comfortable with the lay of the land.

Last edited June 23, 2026 9:32 am

Rolls

Naturecraft - (1d20+5, RA)

(17) + 5 = 22

Jun 23, 2026 12:29 pm

Despite his obvious dislike of wild areas, Igrem begrudgingly agrees that going off road is probably the best option for the party. He tries to remember any useful lore that could help find useful places, or avoid danger.

OOC:

Updated character sheet by removing the night accommodations fee.

Rolls

Lore roll - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Jun 24, 2026 12:44 am

Boggart hums out tunes with a smile, his eyes and ears ever scanning the scrub and hills for anything of interest. "I love a good hike! Don't you?" He chuckles, and Puck chirps and bounds about as they travel.

OOC:

Oh no, and I don't have inspiration anymore!

Last edited June 24, 2026 12:46 am

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+7)

(1) + 7 = 8

Jun 24, 2026 3:52 am

OOC:

Reduce gold by 56g (60 - 5 + 1). Substituted Rapier for Short Sword.

Alexander Simonnet Natalis de Bertier du Puy felt better than he had in a while. After a solid meal and the first decent night's sleep he had had in a while, he felt refreshed with no lingering after effects from his wounds of the prior week. The day was young; the air was fresh. The birds were singing, and he had a shiny new rapier at his waist. Finally, a weapon I can trust he thought, reminiscing about his days at the Waterdhavian salle d'armes at which he trained. He followed behind Gertrude as they left the road and traipsed through the woods, watching as Redhawk, Igrem, and Boggart either scanned the terrain or wracked their minds.

Alex thought over the map they had studied in Phandalin. We must be in the foothills south of the Triboar Trail, he thought. Looking around, he figured that for now, Redhawk was the more skilled at checking for deadfalls and other wilderness traps, although he probably could recognize something if he put his mind to it. Given the noise from Gertrude and the wagon, he figured he could be forgiven for whistling quietly as he followed along. 🎶

Jun 24, 2026 11:48 am

Redhawk proves once again why the party has come to rely upon him in the wilderness.

He leads the group through the hills with remarkable success, choosing routes that keep you moving fast and below ridgelines. Most of the time, you are hidden among thickets of brush and scattered trees. Even Gertrude seems to sense the need for quiet, her usual complaints reduced to occasional soft snorts.

But the rolling terrain and dense shrubbery make it difficult to see far ahead, and even Boggart's sharp eyes fail to catch two figures approaching from the opposite direction.

By the time either party notices the other, you are barely thirty feet apart.

In fact, you hear their conversation before you actually see them.

One of the men—a broad-shouldered fellow—grumbles:

"We won't make it to the Temple of Truth before dark and you're walking so slowly."

The other, a lean, dark-haired man carrying a small keg under one arm, replies irritably:

"Ursic will kill us if we don't get back tonight. Can't you carry the keg now? It's so darn heavy."

A few steps later, the brush parts.

Both groups stop dead.

The two men stare at you.

You stare at them.

OOC:

What do you do?

Igrem, at the mention of the Temple of Truth, you suddenly recall an old tale from your studies.

Long before Phandalin was rebuilt, when the North was guarded by the ancient kingdom of Phalorm, a lonely keep stood upon a broad hill north of Icespire Peak and south of Neverwinter Wood. Beneath that hill lay chambers of carved stone and clear springs, and there the faithful of Tyr, Torm, and Ilmater raised a sanctuary and watchpost to protect the region and its roads.

When Phalorm eventually fell, the keep was abandoned by its guardians—but not left empty. The orc tribes that swept into the region claimed the hill as neutral ground. Though they had little use for the gods of the Triad, they respected the site's reputation for sacred oaths and hospitality. Chieftains gathered there to settle disputes, forge alliances, and negotiate peace. In time, even humans and dwarves came to regard it as a place where enemies might speak without fear.

It became known as the Temple of Truth.

Then came treachery.

One clan invited its rivals to parley beneath the old keep and murdered them under the guise of peace. A brutal battle followed. Fire consumed the ancient halls, stone collapsed, and many died—warriors, shamans, and guests who had trusted in the sanctuary's sacred protections.

The betrayal was so infamous that the hill was abandoned thereafter, its sanctity forever broken.

The old stories claim that on stormy nights, pale lights still flicker among the ruined stones and ghostly voices echo across the hill. The dead, bound by broken oaths and ancient treachery, are said to linger underneath...

Jun 25, 2026 1:06 am

OOC:

Does Alex recognize the name "Ursic" as being common among a particular species, location, or religion?

Rolls

GM edit: Lore - (1d20+2, RA)

(2) + 2 = 4

Jun 25, 2026 8:49 am

Alex, does not recognize the name. Maybe it's from the north?

It doesn't seems to carry any obvious religious significance either. There is no well-known saint, hero, or divine servant named Ursic that Alex can recall.

Jun 25, 2026 7:59 pm

Boggart is momentarily startled by the sudden appearance of others, but waves at the strangers, ever cheerful. "Hail, goodfellows! How fare you this day? Any news from further on?"

Rolls

Secret Roll

Jun 26, 2026 8:54 am

The two men nearly jump out of their boots at the sound of Boggart's cheerful greeting. Instinctively, both step backward.

The lean man carrying the keg drops it to the ground with a thud and draws a short sword, while his broad-shouldered companion pulls a longer blade and glances nervously between the party members, clearly counting heads and weapons.

Then Boggart waves.

The gesture seems to catch them off guard.

"Uh… hail?" he replies uncertainly.

OOC:

What do you do?

Jun 26, 2026 9:45 am

Redhawk seeing the weapons being drawn will say"Let's have none of that gents. He have no quarrel with each others. Just some travelers bumping into each other is all."

OOC:

Wow, I just rolled a one in another game right before this one. What are the chances of that?

Last edited June 26, 2026 9:47 am

Rolls

Influence - (1d20+3, RA)

(1) + 3 = 4

Jun 26, 2026 2:43 pm

OOC:

1 in 400 😉

Jun 26, 2026 6:50 pm

Igrem frowns when hearing the temple named by the larger man. He frowns even further when seeing steel being drawn. He approaches just behind Redhawk and asks: "Did you just say Temple of Truth?"

Jun 26, 2026 8:17 pm

Alex looks over the men. It was interesting that the first instinct of the men was to draw weapons. Most humans and gnomes gathered around a wagon and a mule didn't generate cause for consternation. Well, maybe Igrem's scowl was a bit scary. There was something amiss about the pair, Alex thought.

Last edited June 26, 2026 8:17 pm

Rolls

Perception: Something funny about these folk - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

Jun 26, 2026 10:45 pm

Gremlin says:

OOC:

1 in 400 😉

OOC:

Thank you Mr Spock.

Last edited June 26, 2026 10:45 pm

Jun 27, 2026 12:51 am

The broad-shouldered man lowers his sword slightly, though he does not sheathe it.

"Easy there," he says, forcing a nervous smile. "Didn't mean anything by it. It's just that we didn't expect to meet anyone out here."

He nudges his companion with an elbow.

"I'm Feder, and this is Rilke."

The lean man gives a curt nod, keeping his sword in hand.

Feder glances at the wagon and then at each of you in turn.

"So… where are you folks headed? Me and my friends are part of a little adventuring company. Heard tell there's treasure in the old Temple of Truth — maybe you'd be interested in a profitable proposition."

OOC:

What do you do?

As he speaks, Alex watches the pair carefully.

Their clothes are serviceable but mismatched, more like scavengers than proper adventurers. Their weapons show signs of hard use and poor maintenance. More telling still is the way they instinctively reached for steel and the nervous glances they exchange.

You cannot prove anything, but your instincts immediately whisper that these men feel far more like bandits than adventurers.

Jun 27, 2026 1:40 am

"We have no qualms with you but we have other things to attend to." Redhawk keeps hand on bow ready to nock in a blink.

Jun 27, 2026 2:58 pm

OOC:

Alex, Boggart, Igrem, what do you do?

Jun 28, 2026 2:18 am

Alex looks the men over. He does not have a good feeling about them at all. However, he and his team aren’t acolytes of Torm nor are they in the habit of attacking sapient beings without cause.

"Thank you for the offer, but we have business to the North. Let us not delay you; by all means, pass us by and be on your way." Alex says this with a smile, but his hands remain near his waist from where his various blades can be easily reached.

Jun 29, 2026 2:14 pm

Igrem narrows his eyes when hearing their story. He does somehow betray his suspicion of them being bandits of some sort by his demeanor. He cannot help but ask: "So the Temple of Truth is around this region? Are you saying that you have never been there before?"

He looks intently at them, waiting for the answer.

Jun 29, 2026 3:52 pm

Beneath his typical smile, Boggart can feel the tension of the situation. Though he does not openly reach for his mace, his hand falls to where it lays hanging off of a stud on his belt by a bit of cord wrapped around the handle. His free hand he places on Puck's head, and he can feel that the luminous marten is similarly wound up for action.

He quirks his eyebrow up at Igrem's questioning: perhaps the mage has history with the Temple of Truth? A question to ask later.

Jun 29, 2026 10:29 pm

Feder relaxes a little when Alex politely declines and finally lowers his sword, though he keeps it in hand.

"Oh, we've been there," he says to Igrem with a short laugh. "Found the place a few days ago, in fact."

Rilke nods. "Treasure's real enough, too. Old stuff, coins, maybe magic items. Problem is…" He glances at Feder.

"The problem is the giant."

Feder spits.

"Big brute's taken over the place. At first he offered to help us dig up the treasure—said he knew where some of it was buried beneath the ruins. But every day it's something new. 'Too tired.' 'Need more ale.' 'Dig there instead.' He's stalling. We figure he wants to keep the treasure for himself."

Rilke grins and says:

"Our leader, Ursic One-Ear, has been talking about hiring some extra blades to deal with the problem."

He gestures toward your weapons.

"You lot look capable enough. Come with us to the Temple of Truth, meet Ursic, and if you help slay the giant, I'm sure he'd offer you a fair share of the treasure."

The two men wait expectantly.

Alex, whatever else they may be, they certainly seem eager to recruit you for this venture. Whether out of genuine need, greed, or something else entirely… that is another matter.

Jun 30, 2026 3:36 pm

"A moment if you will," Boggart says to the newcomers and motions to his companions to circle up.

"What do we think? Personally, I'm not against a bit of curiosity, but promised treasure doesn't outweigh the safety of the farmers by my reckoning."

Puck yips in agreement. "Thank you, Puck," Boggart says with a grin.

Jun 30, 2026 8:22 pm

Redhawk nods"I agree with Boggart, we have a job to do."

Jun 30, 2026 9:18 pm

"Agreed, Boggart. We have given our word to Masters Sildar and Harbin. 'twould be ill-mannered and ill-met for us to gallivant after yonder ruffians simply for personal aggrandizement."

Jul 1, 2026 12:05 am

OOC:

Igrem, what do you do?

Jul 2, 2026 12:56 am