Sherwoodshire roleplaying

Kitty gestures politely at Walker. “You have raised many helpful points. Let me answer them in turn.

From what Will and Alf tell me of the fight with the Lake Ness Monster, the White Wolf saved Alf’s life – by taking massive damage from one bite of the Monster. So if the Wolf were appear again, it could happily completely waste an attack of the Dragon!

Now I have seen Saradoc’s remarkable expertise with a bow in person at the recent banquet – and surely even a young Dragon is so large that our Hobbit Archer can fire safely into combat even while others engage the beast hand-to-hand.”

(Walker nods in agreement, holding his hands as far apart as he can.)

Kitty continues “Given Walker and Marron both have different but effective climbing skills, it should be easy to get the whole group up to the top of the Crag. After all, you have rope to help – and none of you have bulky armour.

As for reward – well there you are definitely in luck! Not only will the Count be delighted to reward those who slay this flying, fire-breathing menace – but if you bring back its teeth and also skin it … you will have all the makings for both a valuable necklace and a magical suit of leather armour with automatic Fire Resistance!

Clearly I need to assist you to rid my precious source of Potion ingredients from this evil Dragon. So I will cast my Druidical Protection from Fire on all four of you as soon as you are ready to depart. This spell lasts all day and provides both a useful bonus on your chance to save against fiery Dragon Breath as well as either halving the damage taken – or if you make your save, the spell absorbs a full three-quarters of the damage.
I believe you all have a Potion of Healing already - which under your agreement with the Count, I will always replace.”

Walker coughs and points at himself.

Kitty grins “Yes, dear, Walker the Talker is included in that - all your Potions will also be replaced as they are used. And finally I offer the party a Potion of Goodberry. This will supply several berries when poured out. Eating a berry can either cure 1 hit point, or act as a full delicious meal – either for you or perhaps an animal you wish to befriend. Which of you would like to carry this potion in your back pack? Feel free to use it – I will also replace it!”

The others' talk is comforting to listen to, and familiar in a way Aislinn can't quite describe. It's not a memory from the relatively recent past, she knows. Lizardmen don't speak much, and she wasn't skilled in their language for some time, so things were conveyed mostly in gestures until she learned. Even after leaving she's found it best to be seen and not heard. Or better yet, neither seen nor heard.

But she lifts her head with interest at the climbing talk, even though the lack of any reward initially disappoints her until Kitty added her news. At last, something that plays to her abilities. The lizardmen called her 'Sly Mouse' for a reason.

At last Aislinn blurts, "I can sneak and climb well, even without rope. I've scaled rocky hills and caves and buildings..." She catches herself and adds, "Except for cliffs or walls with a sheer drop. But if there's a tiny handhold, I am dexterous enough."

She's not going to partake in skinning a dragon, evil or not, not even for a reward, but she says nothing about that. She looks from Kitty to her fellow Scouts, and her gaze returns to their newest companion. "Your dragon sounds fearsome, and I hope the Wolf might assist. But even if not I will help--to whatever degree I can, sir." The deferential address is automatic--she doesn't know why--and after a glance downward, she quickly corrects herself in frustration. "Walker."

About to ask Marron if he should keep the berry potion, as a cleric, she then wonders if perhaps it would be good to keep the berries with someone else, just in case something happens to him. Since she will likely be at a greater distance from the beast than the others, it might be wise for her to keep them, so she can at least scurry out to the wounded party.

Aloud, she makes that suggestion. "I can hold them and help anyone who's hurt. Unless one of you is more adept, and prefers to keep them instead."

Marron nods. “Thank you, Walker for discussing how we might fight the Dragon.
Firstly I am an excellent climber and will happily assist any who are not.
Next I think we should spread out to avoid the fearsome breath – though now much less dangerous thanks to Kitty here! So I offer to use my Stealth to go forward to one side of the beast and them pummel it with my clubs.
It would be good to see that Wolf again…
Finally when all is over, I can heal the party.”

Marron then agrees with Aislinn about the Goodberry Potion. “Yes, you take it. I already have two ways to cure the party – my own Clerical spells and a renewable Healing Potion. It makes sense to spread out our curing power.
I remember hearing about a party who gave their Cleric all their Potions … and then he got knocked out, fell backwards and broke all the Potions!” :o

Walker smiles at Kitty, knowing she always comes through with the good stuff!

"Thank you, Druid Kitty! This is much appreciated. And ... Aislinn, was it? That's a very good idea if you would like to keep the Goodberry potion....... however..."

He looks back to Kitty, "Druid, if I might ask, how long do the berries last? Could they be poured out and distributed amongst us before we get into a fight, or would they .... I don't know, disappear after a short time, or go off, or... get squished??" [he clearly has no idea about how magic stuff works. He can use instructions for what is given to him but understand the workings, nope.]

"Marron, you've come across a dragon before? You are quite correct, standing together would be a very Bad Idea. A red dragon like this, even a young one, will be able to breathe fire like this [he gestures with his arms the shape that would be incinerated]. Our lovely druid here has helped us somewhat on that count, but I still wouldn't recommend being in that blast. We should try to attack mainly from the sides, if one person doesn't mind getting a bit singed by keeping the attention at the front end. We should also be wary of the tail end!

It seems we shouldn't have too much difficulty getting us all up onto the crag. As I said, it is a fairly easy climb if you know where to put your hands and feet, and if anyone is struggling we can use the rope to help. I assume it would be wise to wait for a time when there *isn't* a dragon on the top of the crag before we attempt to climb. I would suggest we wait until we see it flying elsewhere and hide nearby until we are sure the coast is clear. Otherwise, it will just sit and mock us as we slowly climb, hah!

Once we are up there, one thing that occurred to me is that, as I can speak in their language - don't ask - I could shout out some choice comments about its mother which would be sure to draw its attention down to us..."

Kitty responds to Walker. "Allow me to me explain. Anyone can use a Potion, but they are ‘one-off’. Depending on the magic within the Potion, they can be drunk, poured out or thrown. The effects are usually instant, but otherwise the Potion has a duration. My Potion of Goodberry will give you some berries which last for one day.

As I said, I'm happy to replace your Potions as they are used, but I would appreciate the party gathering ingredients such as plants, herbs and monster ‘bits’ (e.g. hair or scales.)
Scouts, Walker has Herbalism, so can supervise wilderness gathering of suitable ingredients.

Saradoc pipes up. "I decided not to attend the Climb Walls lessons at the Scout Guild in favour of Find + Remove Traps.
However I only weigh 60 pounds and wear leather armour. So if I have a climbing rope (and perhaps a helping hand), I can easily get up a cliff or wall.

My best strategy is to stand back and fire arrows - I'm really very good at that." (He coughs modestly.)
"As Kitty has said, I won't endanger any of you who are in melee with the huge Dragon.

Oh, and to complete my introduction to Walker, my Scout skills are Stealth, Find + Remove Traps and Hear Noise.
I know Carpentry, play the Drums and am a Bowyer/Fletcher. I can also Read Lips. I speak Hobbit (of course) and Lizardman.

Walker's bird nudges him in the side of his face with her beak, possibly communicating? There is nothing to hear but Walker suddenly says,

"Oh yes, and of course Eye here can fly up ahead, and I will be able to use her keen eyes to see. I can look through her eyes and tell you what she is seeing, which might be useful as we get close or if we need "eyes in the sky" -hehe, pun there, sorry."

Looking at the party and then down at himself, then at Kitty, he says, "Well, I really *would* appreciate a chance to have a quick bath before we head out, but otherwise I am ready when you all are. I have a map here if you would like to see where we're heading." He produces from his pack a rolled up bunch of parchments tied with string, then unties it and unrolls them, flicks through a couple - they appear to be maps, many with hand-written annotations - then pulls out one which shows a map of the local region and points to a part showing a raised area. "This is the Crag. I've got a better sketch somewhere of ... hang on... ah, here it is..." He pulls out another sheet from the bundle and the party can see a top and side view of the crag in more detail.

"I'll leave this with you and we should all prepare to head out. Personally, and I am sure you'll agree, hah, I really do need to clean up a bit, it's been a while since I was back in civilisation." Eye caws softly in agreement.

Here is the map of Walker's Crag:

https://btcloud.bt.com/web/app/share/invite/zKMU448vhI

http://www.hsw.me.uk/images/albums/u...r_s_Crag~5.jpg

[edit: ahh! Sorry! Walker was too slow in getting out his maps!]

Aislinn's interest is piqued when Saradoc mentions his ability to speak the Lizardmen's language. She ponders whether to speak to him about some things she never quite understood while in their company. But soon Walker produces the map and her attention is directed there.

It looks small, and rather open aside from those trees at the southernmost side of the crag. Not many places to hide, at least from this angle. Once they climb up there, the dragon might have its eye on them immediately, even with their Stealth capabilities.

A tendril of fear twists in her stomach, but she remains outwardly impassive. "A well-drawn map," she murmurs to Walker before stepping away from it, though her gaze remains riveted there. "There--there's not much cover. I don't recall, did you say... How big is the dragon, sir?"

Kitty remarks that she has been on a visit to Walker's Crag as it is a valuable source of Potion ingredients.
She adds "The map is more of a useful diagram. It is quite a large rock - I would estimate that the top is about 100 yards across. Apart from the trees there are many bushes, so skilled practitioners of Stealth like yourselves should have little trouble moving about for an ambush.
As for the dragon - well I have seen an occasional one myself. After leaving the nest, even young ones are 30 feet long!
Oh, let me offer you a small cart. If you do gather the hide, that will make it easy to bring it back - and perhaps there will be some treasure. Dragons do relish such things!"

Walker nods in agreement.

"Yes, from what I heard from eyewitness accounts from the villagers, the dragon is maybe around 30 feet long. It's about a half-day's travel to get to the crag but I know the area well so I hope that it will be a fairly easy journey... but as you know there are always risks on the road so be prepared.

As we get closer I can send Eye up and ahead to see if the dragon is on the crag and we can proceed from there... either getting ourselves ready for an ambush when it returns, or preparing for a full-frontal attack, hah. .... I don't advise that option, by the way.

As Kitty says, the crag itself is actually quite good for cover, apologies, my map-making skills are not my forte and I wasn't making this map with the plan to share is as a battle strategy! There is certainly more bushes and trees than I showed, assuming we get up there okay then whether the dragon is there or not we should be able to remain hidden.

In terms of getting up on the crag, I think we can all make the climb fairly easily if we take this route [Walker points to the middle section of his scribbled map, to the south of the crag]. This is the way I usually climb up there and I think we can all manage it pretty well, and we can give a helping hand, or rope, to your friend here.

I'll leave you to gather whatever you need and prepare, and please, if you would excuse me, I really would like a bath before we set off..."

[Walker turns to leave, in the hopeful search of finding a bathtub with some hot water and soap. It has been a long and dusty journey since he was last here.]

Chastened for keeping Walker from his ablutions, Aislinn just nods her head and studies the map. Once Walker leaves, she drags her gaze back up to Kitty. "If the dragon is young... ought we to be concerned of its parents somewhere nearby? I must seem ignorant, but--well, there are no dragons where I'm from," she adds hastily, although to be honest, she's not sure about that.

Marron gives a start and then responds to Aislinn. "Parents? I hadn't thought of that! Yes, it's one thing for the four of us to tackle a young dragon, especially using our Stealth. It's scary to think about two adult dragons swooping down..."

His voice tails off, but then he continues "Ah, but surely we would have had reports of such danger by now. And Walker's hawk would be able to see trouble a long way off. So good thinking Aislinn - but I reckon we'll be OK. Oh, and I volunteer to push the cart Kitty offered us - perhaps we will be able to fill it with treasure!"

Kitty watches Walker leave, then turns back to the rest of the party. "I should explain that Walker has two choices to clean up. The quickest is to simply bathe in the stream running through the North of the Keep grounds. We keep a screen set up just behind the Mill for modesty's sake - and also to keep clothing from blowing away. It's pretty cold water - but many find it invigorating!

Now as Walker is of a reasonable rank here in the Keep, he can order a hot bath. This involves servants using a fireplace in the Dining Hall to heat water and pour it into a bathtub brought from the Kitchen. So it will use more time. Let's see which way Walker chooses.

Incidentally I've heard Walker talk about soap before - apparently you can mix up ashes from a tree, animal fat, plants for scenting and finally break down limestone to make this substance. Soap then helps remove grime and dirt. You know, that could be a future task for your party ... unless you think it too 'tame'!"

Aislinn doesn't know how to react, amused or affronted, and worries that she'll reveal a grimace combining them both. So she hastens a look over to the large fireplace (or if there isn't one here--though there must be a way they keep such chambers warm--she'll just gaze down at the map).

"No, of course not, my lady. It's neither too tame nor unfamiliar. In my travels, any kitchen drudge knows how soap is made. I daresay we'll have need of it eventually."

Walker heads off, and having just returned to the Keep after a fairly long venture in the wilds with a fair few supplies plus information and news about the surrounding villages, is pretty sure that he is owed a hot bath by now. And yes, soap is definitely A Thing. He asks the servants that he knows quite well and - hopefully- a hot bath is drawn. He is very aware that he looks (and probably smells) not too pretty right now. While looking rugged is fairly standard "mysterious and attractive ranger" territory and probably some do find that attractive, it's nice to feel clean once in a while!

He will aim to be swift, he politely declines the offer of scented rose petals, oils and candles. Just hot water and soap will do, thanks.

Kitty blushes. "Sorry about the soap - I just wish some of the Keep Guard would use it more!"
She looks at the small fireplace in the guest room. "It's great that our friend Woody has settled in at the orchard here. He enjoys chopping wood for the fireplaces all over the Keep!"

Marron has been studying Walker's map and comments "I look forward to a refreshed Walker coming up with a plan for defeating the Dragon. He knows the way to his crag; once there we can all help Saradoc climb up; then on to victory!"

Nodding slowly, Aislinn hears Marron's encouraging words of victory and starts to wonder... Is a group of four truly enough? The Keep has so many soldiers and other men of might. Why did Walker not seek to enlist more fighters?

The answer hits her: Of course! By keeping the group low in number, he ensures that his share of the dragon's items remains high. Whereas more fighters would mean smaller rewards. It makes sense to her, both personally and in her experiences with others.

Not all others. Aislinn turns to Kitty. "I am glad Woody seems to thrive in the orchard, and is helping others. I do hope... that is, he is slow of speech and rather... simple." She waves her hand slightly, not certain if 'simple' is the right word. It seems kindest, at least.

"I know there are honorable people in Count Parsival's court and likely so are his tenants or vassals? not sure what the current era would call them, but even men of honor can falter. Especially as Woody's race is so misleading." Her cheeks warm with the discomfort of speaking too much. "Would you check on him? To see no one takes advantage of his,,, simplicity... or worse, harm him due to the belief that every Ogre is an evil one. Like dragons," she finishes softly.

After a short while Walker returns. He scrubs up well, looking and smelling a lot more fresh than earlier (though still rugged, of course. He just shaved enough to still keep the ruggedness). His leather armour is probably still a bit fragrant if you get close, but he has used the soap [thank you Kitty!] to rub the inside of the armour to make it hopefully less pungent.

Looking around, he sees that the others appear to be mainly ready to set off, and says,

"Ok, so, starting off: we're a small group. That's intentional. More people equals more targets. It's a young dragon so I think a group of this size is probably best suited. I would rather fight alongside a handful of talented people who can hold their own in a fight than throw tens of untrained common-folk to their deaths. I used the words "young" and "dragon", and I can see that this might be giving conflicting thoughts. Don't take that it is young to mean it's going to be an easy fight, but also don't take dragon to mean it's an insurmountable foe. Let's put it this way: I wouldn't fancy my chances if I were one of these villagers or noble-folk up against it, but with a plan and some skills, which Druid Kitty here says you seem to possess, we have a decent chance."

He looks at the larger map again and points out a trail to the crag.

"It will take a short while but, as I said, the journey shouldn't be difficult. When we get close to the crag - which will be obvious... it's a massive rock* - we can group up and I'll send Eye ahead to see if we're climbing into the face of a dragon... not recommended...* or whether the coast is clear to climb up the routes I pointed out earlier. Then I suppose the plan is just to get everyone up there safely, and I suggest we help up anyone who is struggling, but anyone who isn't actively climbing or helping should make themselves as hidden as possible. Try to be as stealthy as possible until we know where the dragon or its lair is. I will keep my vision, as far as I can safely, looking through Eye so that I can warn of any changes in the situation. Best case scenario is that we arrive there and the dragon is absent, so that we can set an ambush for when it returns, or second-best scenario, it is there but asleep so that we can scale the crag and get into position. Worst case scenario.... well. You can figure that out.

If we are all ready, I am good to head out whenever you are..."


* you notice that when Walker talks, he often says little asides, almost to himself. Almost like he is used to walking alone and providing his own internal (or external!) monologue

When Walker returns, Aislinn can't help noticing his improved appearance. He seems a little younger than she thought. Also a little less intimidating. On the other hand, she's wary of attractive men; they put her guard up. Fortunately her own appearance is an effective shield against any attention.

At any rate, it doesn't matter; they'll be fighting the same foe and there's no time for anything... for anything unrelated to battling a dragon.

She is disconcerted when Walker immediately addresses a question she'd asked herself earlier, regarding their small number. How odd. Does he have some strange magic that can divine a stranger's thoughts? Now she's wary again. It's likely just a coincidence, but she must watch out for it.

Still, he talks so much... I doubt he can sneak inside someone's thoughts when he's chatting away so. She almost smiles and ducks her head to hide it while making a show of checking her pack. Truth is, his talkative nature reminds her of someone, a vague but good memory, and it's a bit disarming.

"I am ready, if my fellows are." She looks hopefully at Marron and Saradoc. Maybe they won't want to go after all.

Saradoc says “I’m ready. Apparently I’m the only one who needs assistance climbing the Crag – but as I said, that should be no problem. Then once we’re up and know where the Dragon is, we can finalise our plan.”

Marron touches his Holy Symbol of Turning and nods. "Let us defeat this minion of Mordred!"

Kitty reassures Aislinn. “I know Woody has settled in to Keep life. Of course many were startled by meeting an Ogre that was not evil – but now they are actually quite proud. I’ve heard them remark ‘We’re the only Keep with an Ogre!’”

Kitty then casts Protection from Fire on all four party members and reminds Aislinn that the potion of Goodberry can be poured out at any time to collect the berries.

Walker checks his climbing gear and leads the Scouts out of the Keep.
Once past the Keep’s surrounding farms, fields and orchards, Sherwoodshire is a pleasant mixture of forest, rivers, bushes, lakes and rocks. There are no roads, but an occasional track.
Walker confidently brings the party past minor obstacles, making the march easy.
After a few hours, Walker’s Crag comes into view and Walker sends Eye the Hawk up to scout. Almost immediately Walker announces that the Dragon is visible! It is lying on the top of Walker’s Crag just South of where the spring rises.

(Here is the map of Walker's Crag:

https://btcloud.bt.com/web/app/share/invite/zKMU448vhI )

The Dragon has apparently finished devouring the two sheep from a nearby farm and is simply dozing and digesting.

Walker states “I just want to visit the farm that the Dragon attacked and reassure them that we want to slay the monster.”
He heads into the farm and has a brief conversation with the farmer ending with a firm handshake. (No spitting!)
On his return, Walker adds “The Dragon not only murdered their son (the shepherd), but also seized a necklace from him. It’s only of sentimental value, but it would be good if we could recover it…”

Using the cover of a forest, Walker and the party soon arrive at the foot of Walker’s Crag (at the midpoint of the South side.)
DM: Walker makes a Rock Climbing roll.
Walker points out various narrow ledges and handholds to the party (giving everyone a bonus on their Climb Walls.)
He prepares a climbing rope to assist Saradoc and whispers to the party “Eye is keeping an eye on the dozing Dragon. I’ll lead the way up and attach the rope for Saradoc.
Any questions or comments?”

Walker turns as well to Aislinn,

"Do you think it might be a good idea now to pour and and distribute the Goodberries? If we each have a couple on hand it could be helpful if we need to get someone stabilised. Seems to me to be more sensible than keeping them in a bottle "just in case"...! We could each take a couple and keep them in our pockets - be careful not to squash them - and then if anyone is feeling badly hurt, or if anyone unfortunately goes down, whoever is closest can use them."

Aislinn, examining the crag as Walker pointed out possible handholds, is distracted (she is nervous) and doesn't immediately realize Walker is talking to her. She gives a little start when she's broken out of her own anxious thoughts.

Quickly paying attention to his question, she looks down at the potion doubtfully. "It seems a good idea to me. Kitty did say the berries should last all day, so I don't see why not. I'm not very experienced in this sort of magic, I don't think. It doesn't feel..." She doesn't continue and just looks at the others. "I'm inclined to agree, but do either of you see a problem with such a plan?"

Eye is maintaining a view-point high above the crag, almost to the limit of her clear vision, and occasionally you will see Walker's eyes flicker upward, showing only the white, as he looks through the eyes of his familiar. He reports on what he sees in terms of the area surrounding the dragon, as seen by Eye, and will guide the group as they climb to a safe spot away from the dragon and, (hopefully*) undetected. He makes his way up, occasionally pausing and looking through Eye's eyes to make sure all is still quite up top, then (hopefully**) reaches the top and tries to secure a rope to aid the others. He is continually checking through Eye to make sure that our presence is undetected and will alert the others (via bird-strike) if it looks like the dragon is stirring.

Marron quietly replies to Aislinn. "I'm sure it's a good idea to get the Goodberries now - before the combat starts.
As you know, I have healing spells and Saradoc will be firing his bow - so why don't you take all the berries?
To cure an injury, someone can just eat as many berries as they want. if they are unconscious, just press berries on the wound - Kitty told me they work just like a healing poultice."

While the others sort out the Goodberries, Walker starts the climb.

DM: Walker makes a Rock Climbing roll.

He easily reaches the top of the Crag, noting happily that the Dragon has not noticed anything.
Also there is good cover from the top of the climb all the way to the dozing monster.

Walker ties a rope for Saradoc to use.

Aislinn passes the Goodberries to Saradoc while simultaneously taking a good measure of the climbing route. She initially planned to clamber and scrabble her way up as she's done many times with even harder ascents. But when a rope is provided for Saradoc, she decides to take advantage of it. Little sense wasting precious energy that might be more urgently needed in the proximity of a dragon.

Once the hobbit has made his way up, Aislinn takes hold of the rope so she can climb. If she's successful she'll keep behind whatever cover she sees nearby.

Walker hunches down in the bushes at the top of the crag and peers briefly through Eye's eyes again - Eye being far, far above - and is pleased to note as his companions scale the cliff, that their ascent appears to have gone unnoticed by the dragon. He nods to himself as well with a tacit recognition of the skills in this group he's come to meet. They are quiet, they are stealthy, and they certainly have some climbing ability. Impressive.

Now to see what their tactics are. He has given them a map of the layout of this crag, but having never worked with this group before, Walker is not sure of their usual tactics, or, indeed, what they've faced. He trusts Druid Kitty if she says they are worth their salt (which their trekking and climbing skills suggest is correct), but at this point he would prefer to defer to them...

"Ok, good climbing there. You have some skills. Now, you have a layout of what's up here. We have good coverage along this ridge and ahead of us [he points out areas that are easier to approach unseen]. I can keep tabs on the dragon [his eyes flicker briefly] - yep, still asleep at the moment - but I will leave it to you as a team to do what you usually do...? I apologise, I've not worked in a team for a long loooooooooong while, I'm usually on my own out here hah! and it's clear that you have all worked together for some time so probably have your own tactical methods and know your skills, and how best you work together. I've given you all the knowledge I have; the lay of the land, what we can expect from a red dragon (which it seems our friend here already was aware of), and aside from that............. [he shrugs] I guess you do what you do best, and direct me where you need me. If it helps, I am quiet and can probably get close in, perhaps to the side to use my staff, otherwise I can remain further away and use my sling.

"Just as a reminder, if needed I can talk in this dragon's language, oh, and also, try not to damage the plants. Sorry, just... I've been tending them for a while for Kitty and she does give us excellent potions.

"So yes, you deploy as you think fits your usual battle tactics, I assume? Let me know where I can be most useful, but I think as a team you probably know best how you work together. [He looks over the group, wondering who out of them is their de facto leader, if there is one. The quiet one, perhaps?]

"Wait a sec, here, I'll sketch on the map where the dragon is..." [Walker's eyes blink up again as he checks once more through Eye then marks on the map where the dragon is, and where the most heavy cover is between us and it]



"Oh, and yep, don't forget that we have fire protection, but it's still going to hurt, so avoid it where you can!"

Walker shows the party this updated map:

https://btcloud.bt.com/web/app/share/invite/qxN0vYq2SJ

Walker comments "As you can see the Dragon is very close to the treeline - no doubt looking for some shade. From where we are, there is plenty of cover for you Scouts to use your Stealth and reach any point on the South side of the Dragon."

The Dragon: https://btcloud.bt.com/web/app/share/invite/WQRebcplOK

Marron nods contentedly at Walker's summary and answers "Well we've only actually had two battles together - but we did win both!
As you say, we should try not to clump together, thus lessening the effect of the Dragon's breath. For my part I am happy to use the trees for Stealth and make my way along to the rear of the Dragon. Then when our attack starts, I will continually bash the brute with both my Clubs. Afterwards I am happy to heal the party."

He looks politely in Aislinn's direction. "Hopefully a White Wolf could help us out again..."

Aislinn's heart bangs against her breastbone like a prisoner battering the bars of his cell. She listens to Walker and Marron, glad to cede leadership to them. The Wolf. She chews at her lip worriedly after Marron's suggestion. If she can somehow invoke it, would she be sending it to another death? Would it even be the same Wolf? Oh how she hopes so! That would mean it didn't really die in the jaws of that hideous sea creature.

"I will... try," she says softly. "If I can get close enough--" Close! Madness. Approaching that red glimmering beast is terrifying. But.

Aislinn girds herself into playing some consequential role in this battle, even if she is deathly afraid. She's one of their number and... and that counts for something. She's been alone for a long time. That choice made sense before. Now... the next chapter of her life has begun. Here she is. She can't let the others down.

She continues, "If close enough, I could strike at its leg or foot? My knives are small, but I can be a sort of... pest. Distracting it? Along with the Wolf, if he will come."

Waiting for some hint that this is of some value, she thinks: And the Fog, what of that? Might she be able to repeat that, too? Of course she wouldn't want them all to be enshrouded--they must see what they're trying to fight. But... what if she concentrates, makes the effect very small--so small it focuses around the dragon's head. That might confuse it as well.

Absurd! That sounds like far too ambitious considering she barely knows if she can even do it again. Or really, how she did it in the first place. I will try, she decides, but does not share this with others. She doesn't want anyone to count on such a phantasm she might not be able to summon.

So if the others agree her assignment, Aislinn will wait until the moment is ripe and sneak, crouch and dart around to attack the dragon's feet--or its tail, if that's a possibility. If she has the ability, she'll whisper for the Wolf's assistance while pointing him where he should go--on the opposite side of her, anywhere really that can be a distraction for the regular fighters.

Walker nods. He muses to himself as he listens to the others plan.

As expected, this team seem to know what they are doing. So, Marron might be the leader? Or maybe he's just bolder and first to talk? I think maybe Aislinn has more steel in her than she lets on. Just a feeling. It feels strange to be working as part of a team but oddly comforting to be with a group of people who know each others' strengths and weaknesses. If, just maybe, we could all sneak around it and attack from all sides at once, then we stand a good chance. Well, a fairly decent chance. Ok, probably most of us... some of us... won't die. The idea of being healed after a fight is quite nice! Don't usually get that unless I've got a spare potion on me. Maybe being part of a team is a Good Idea hah. An extra wolf would be helpful... apparently he was worthy in a fight before? But then he died. Hmm. Looking at Aislinn, she doesn't seem confident that this wolf will appear, or even sure of how she summoned him. Is it a spirit wolf? Is he/she/it sentient? Would it even want to return if it was just going to get blasted by a dragon? Best not to count on a wolf appearing then. I wonder what other magical abilities she might have?

He says, "I think you have an excellent idea there, distraction will be key, we need to not have it focussed in any direction. If Marron here wants to head around to the tail area and just whales on it with their clubs - watch out, it can do quite a vicious swipe with its tail so you might need to be quick on your feet there - Aislinn takes a leg on one side, and I will use my staff to strike it on the other flank. If your wolf chooses to join us then I expect he can menace another leg? Saradoc...? It does seem that if we can get into position stealthily without waking the dragon, and then strike from all directions at once... we might have a good chance here."

If Saradoc's plan aligns with this, Walker would try to use his stealth to get to the opposite side of the dragon to where Aislinn is, and to strike it with his staff.

"If he can be beckoned here--the Wolf--I think he might best attract the beast's attention at a time when we can take advantage of it. Perhaps once we've moved to the dragon's side, it would be surprised to find an attacker head on. Like as not, it will attack the newcomer."

Aislinn's words are rushed and low. She's not thrilled at putting the Wolf in such danger. She's not even thrilled about putting the dragon in such danger. It must be done, she knows it, but...

Such a fragile moral code. A man would not get this much sympathy. She blinks, uncertain where that stray thought came from. Is it true? Probably. But a man could be imprisoned. We wouldn't immediately start with attempted murder. That's an assassin's work, not--

A sharp pain stabs at the center of her head and she gasps, clasping it with her palm. So sudden, and out of nowhere. Like something splitting her mind from the inside, clawing its way to freedom.

The pain vanishes almost as swiftly as it struck, and Aislinn slowly lowers her hand, brushing past the bandage binding half her face. "I--I think there might be something afoot. Sorcery, psychic magic, whatever one calls it." She surveys the rest of her party, confused. "Did the rest of you feel that? Can--can a dragon inflict pain from afar?"

The party remain hidden, but look at Aislinn with concern.

Walker whispers confidently "I know of no Dragon with any such innate or psychic abilities. And Hawk tells me the Dragon certainly did not cast a spell - it's still digesting."

Marron agrees and looks round carefully.

DM: Marron makes an Ambush roll.

Marron adds quietly "Nobody here but us chickens..."

Saradoc nods.

DM: Saradoc makes an Awareness roll.

Saradoc mutters "I agree with Marron - it's just us here."

Walker looks concerned.

"I didn't feel anything. Aislinn, are you ok? Are you harmed in any way?" He looks to see if there is anything physically "not-okay" such as wild eyes, drooping face, etc. [Medicine check? Is she ok?]

"Are you still ok to go through with this? Eye sees nothing different from her viewpoint- the dragon is still asleep - but I don't know if there is something different going on here."

He nods at Saradoc and Marron, "Neither I nor Eye (heh) sense anything else here. Have you experienced something like this before? With Aislinn, I mean, not the dragon. Also, sorry, Aislinn, have YOU experienced something like this? Are you ok to continue or do we need to pause? Happy to continue with the plan if you are ok with it...

"As an extra thought, if it does wake up, I will try to talk to it. Even if I just distract it, that will help. Or, if it is amenable to whatever I say, I'll shout out to stop attacking. Maybe I can just make it go away. Hmm. But then it makes it someone else's problem. If it doesn't seem amenable, I will just shout some insults about its mother, heh!"

Quietly, Walker seems bothered by this. Having worked for years now in the wild lands he understands the cycles of life and death among the creatures, and knows that while evil exists, often it is still just a creature trying to survive. Not necessarily malevolent, just surviving. If the opportunity arises, he would try to speak to the dragon and ask it to move on... could it possibly agree to leave this area and prey upon creatures in the natural cycle? Prey animals get preyed upon, that is how the cycle works. Attacking farms and villages is only going to lead other adventurers or mercenaries to hunt it down, as we have been sent to do.

Walker knows that red dragons are "known" to be evil, but equally knows from experience that no creature is born evil. If the opportunity arises, he would like to speak with it ... as we attack it, obviously.

Saradoc quietly lets the others know of his intentions in the forthcoming battle.
"I am a trained archer, and I will be most effective shooting arrows at the dragon. The beast is large enough that my arrows will pose no risk to those of you fighting at close quarters. Should the dragon take to the air he will still be within range of my bow."

Walker nods again, impressed at this team who seem to know how to fight together and play to each others' strengths.

"So, Saradoc, I assume with your range you can stand as far away as possible, and attack from the front? If you can stay out of the range of its fire breath then that's even better, hah. Then we have Marron at the rear - so to speak - and Aislinn and I will take the flanks. Aislinn aiming to be an annoyance to his legs - no offence intended, those were your words! - and I will just ... hit it, I guess. We may or may not have a wolf. But anyway, are we happy to go with this? If so, shall we try to get into position?"

[Walker would like to motion the others into position and start to move with stealth to the side of the dragon]

Marron answers Walker's comments on the morals of the Dragon. "I agree that normal animals do just attack to survive. However all Dragons are highly intelligent and some also kill simply to gain treasure. From what you tell us, his one has already slain an innocent shepherd. Let me put your mind at rest..."
Marron casts Detect Evil* at the Dragon and continues "As I feared, this Dragon registers strong evil and will be impossible to convert (unlike our Ogre friend Woody.) We must try to stop it rampaging through Sherwoodshire..."

Marron is all set to move with Stealth to the rear of the Dragon as agreed (using the trees on the South side of the beast as cover) when he suddenly gives a start and grins. :D

He hisses to the party "I've been looking carefully at the trees - they are not just excellent for Stealth, but also easy to climb and have thick branches with extensive foliage.
How about we give Saradoc a hand up one (say 20 feet?) so he can conceal himself amid the leaves and fire his bow from up there?
It would be almost impossible for the dragon to attack our Archer with its claws and bite - and certainly the beast couldn't get Saradoc and anyone else into its breath attack simultaneously."



(*see companion thread post 41 for a fuller explanation of Evil in my campaign)

Aislinn, uncomfortable by the attention and by having given away some vulnerability, is still glad none of the others have been affected--though it does make her worry about herself. "I'm sure it was just a momentary thing. It's gone now."

She listens to their strategies and nods at the possibility of Saradoc climbing to perch on the tree, if it can be done safely. "I'll try to attack as I mentioned, at its legs. If I can beckon the Wolf I'll choose a good angle for it to arrive, so that the dragon can see it. And--and that's all," she concludes rather feebly. She knows she's not coming across as brimming with confidence, but... this is not a type of enemy she has encountered before (other than the Lake Ness monster). Past foes had but two legs to them.

Privately she vows to at least attempt to use a Fog, somehow surrounding the dragon's head so it can't see--if such a thing is possible. She worries she'll lack the skill, or be too afraid to concentrate--or maybe that curious mist from last night was not her own doing after all. But Aislinn must try.

The party are happy with Walker’s battle plan (although Marron mutters something about ‘a plan only lasts until meeting the enemy’!)
The party will take their cue from Walker – as soon as the Ranger strikes, they will all join in the attack.

Saradoc is content to take position 20 feet up in a tree, remarking that gives him an even better field of fire.
Walker and Marron both give the hobbit a helping hand up onto a sturdy branch and Walker fastens a climbing rope to it so Saradoc can get down easily.

Saradoc goes into Stealth and readies his bow.

Marron nods at the party, moves into Stealth and sets off for the rear of the Dragon with his clubs at the ready.

Walker is able to conceal himself and heads for the approximate middle of the monster, grasping his staff.

Aislinn also enters into Stealth and moves forward so she can clearly see the head of the Dragon.

Here is a map of the party’s position at the start of the combat:

https://btcloud.bt.com/web/app/share/invite/iIOwfwdNiy

DM: Saradoc makes a Stealth roll.

DM: Marron makes a Stealth roll.

DM: Aislinn makes a Stealth roll.

Just as Walker is about to strike the Dragon, he steps on a branch which breaks with a loud crack!

Instantly the Dragon turns its head (on its flexible neck) and faces the Ranger, saying (in Red Dragon) “Ah – dessert has arrived!”

Walker effectively replies to the Dragon’s taunt (which he understands as he speaks the language) by attacking with his staff.
Walker’s strike fails to damage the well-armoured Dragon.

Saradoc fires two arrows. His first does 8 damage. However the second missile simply skips off the thick hide.

Marron bashes away with two clubs. His Superior Club administers 12 damage (thanks to Marron’s Stealth success) – the other does none.

Aislinn simply points at the mouth of the Dragon … and a large, muscular White Wolf (with just a few black markings) appears from the trees, attacking the Dragon. (Aislinn is thrilled to see that its the same Wolf that attacked the Lake Ness Monster…)
Although the Wolf misses, the Dragon immediately switches its attention to the Wolf and uses a vicious Claw / Claw / Bite assault.
Although one claw fails to hit, the Dragon still does a massive 21 damage, killing the brave Wolf.

Walker continues to use his Staff, but again is unable to do damage.

Saradoc fires again, hitting with one missile for 6 damage.

Marron is unable to hurt the Dragon with either club (as his bonus for attacking from Stealth no longer applies.)

Aislinn, saddened by the death of the Wolf, whispers “Fog” and instantly a Cloud of Mist forms over the Dragon’s head. (Aislinn stares at it in triumph.)

The Dragon roars in frustration at being temporarily blinded and breathes a huge cone of fire, obliterating the cloud.
Both Walker and Aislinn are caught in the edge of the cone (although they both effectively receive somewhat less damage, since the Dragon cannot aim at either of them.)

Walker successfully dodges (thus ‘saving’ against the fiery breath) and with the help of Druid Kitty’s Protection from Fire, takes just 7 damage.
Aislinn also uses her Dexterity to ‘save’ and mentally thanks Kitty for her Protection from Fire.
Aislinn also takes 7 damage.

It is clear that the Dragon is grievously wounded, but also that it has no intention of surrendering. The combat continues…

Walker happily does hit now, for 9 damage.

Saradoc continues his rain of arrows, with one hit doing 7 damage.

Marron narrowly misses with both club attacks.

Aislinn sees that the Wolf’s body has suddenly disappeared and hesitates briefly before saying “Wolf?” … but nothing appears.

At this point the Dragon collapses – dead!

Kitty's protection was remarkable, though Aislinn still feels sore from the Dragon's fire. Forgetting her potion, she instead stumbles to the spot where the Wolf had lain, slaughtered. Kneeling and resting a hand on the ground--where its blood should be--she shakes her head in confusion. Again she concentrates, fixes the image of the Wolf in her mind, and calls for it. And still it doesn't appear.

She didn't see the Wolf vanish in that previous battle; she thought the Lake Ness monster had killed it, but perhaps it had only been wounded after all, and had escaped by disappearing to... to... whatever plane of existence it seems to reside in.

This time, she saw its cruel death. And she's called for it to return, twice now, with no success. She whispers a third time but the noble creature is clearly not coming back.

Hot fury almost blinding her, she staggers up to her feet, turns toward the now-deceased dragon and without much sense jabs her dagger into its nearest leg with a vicious swipe. The attack accomplishes nothing but pathetic resentment, and Aislinn just stares at the pointless wound for a moment, breathing heavily. At last she remembers the other party members' possible wounds, not to mention her own. After sweeping an arm across her forehead, hot and perspiring beneath her bandages, she shakily wipes the blood from her weapon on the dragon's hide and looks around.

They're all still here and don't seem too bad off. She sighs in gratitude that her delay hasn't harmed anyone. "Does anyone need more berries?" she asks hoarsely, hesitating before pouring some out for herself.

Walker sighs and rubs at his singed hair. He feels like he didn't perform to the best of his abilities during this first first with his new companions.

Damn. I know I'm better than this. I just hope they don't think I'm a useless fraud. Aislinn seems to have a few tricks up her sleeve... interesting. So the wolf appeared and also she managed - I think it was from her - to manifest that cloud of fog. I wonder why she isn't more confident in these abilities... Hmm. And she seems truly upset when the wolf is killed. Killed? Maybe killed? Or maybe just returned to another plane, I've met people with familiars and similar who can be summoned and don't *die* when they are killed on this plane....... but surely she would know if she had a familiar? Maybe some other type of companion? Odd that it disappeared though. I wonder if this is only the second time she has met it? Does she speak with it? I think we need to actually ask about this further....

He speaks, "Phew. Well. Is everyone ok? I'm a bit singed and I think Aislinn, you are too? I'll take a couple of berries if you don't mind and if nobody else needs them. I think we ... [he hangs his head slightly] ... well, most of us ... did well there. I'm sorry, I just couldn't seem to get a good hit in. I'm sorry as well for breaking our stealth at the beginning. To be honest, I am ashamed. That was not the performance one should expect from a Ranger and I am truly sorry that it put you in danger. Well, ok, we survived - no thanks to me - the beast is dead.

"Who amongst us is most skilled with a blade to try to get some materials from it's body? The skin, scales, possibly the organs? I'm sure Kitty could use bits for some interesting potions and possibly the armourers back at the Keep could use dragon hide and other various bits and pieces...?"

Saradoc joins Aislinn as the druidical Potion is opened, revealing 8 Goodberries. (The party know that each berry will cure 1 point of damage - or act as a full nutritious meal.)

Marron hurries up. "By all means have the berries ready, but let me do some Curing first! My Cures vary a little, whereas we know exactly how many berries we have."

Marron casts Cure Light Wound on Walker, healing him for 7 points.
Marron looks a little surprised (and even smug) "I don't normally get exactly what is needed - that's a good omen.
OK, use the berries on Aislinn - and we've got a spare one for today in case."

Now Marron answers Walker's points about the Dragon. "I suggest we try to skin the dragon - I'm sure (as Walker says) someone at the Keep knows how to turn that into fire-resistant leather armour! If anyone is a tanner or even a tailor, that would help. If not, someone who can use a dagger as a weapon. Sadly I have none of those abilities myself.
I expect Kitty could do something with a bit of spare hide and the dragon's teeth would make a fine necklace for sure.
Good thing we brought a cart - we'll need it for all that hide...

Walker, as we are here for some time doing all that, how about we look for plants, herbs and other materials for Kitty?
If you tell us what to look for, we could gather it.

Finally here's a problem for all of us to consider. What do we do with the remnants of this huge dragon?!
Burn it? Throw it off the crag? Any ideas?

Aislinn's gaze remains steadily on the berries. Her ears are ringing, or--maybe ringing isn't the right word; she just seems to hear things from very far away. Walker's words bring her out of her sharp focus. "Your staff dealt one of the final blows," she says quietly, handing the young man a pair of the healing berries. "You none of you have anything to regret."

She understands but doesn't agree with Walker's harsh personal assessment. She herself isn't sure what good she did. The dragon dispelled the fog immediately; her poor Wolf--though she feels undeserving to have any claim of the brave beast--killed at once. At least she learned she can indeed invoke and focus that strange mist effect on a smaller target.

Picking up one of the berries, she examines its color. Red. Like the dragon. Like the Wolf's blood, and that of the dragon, oozing now courtesy of her knife.

At last she looks up--first at Walker, then Marron. "I'll help skin it," she says flatly. None of her earlier inner repulsion protests the thought. "And gut it, if that yields something of use."