The Case of the Silent Pollinators
Within the bustling port city of Entree Dieu De La Mer on the rocky west coast of The Great Continent stands the Natural Museum. A shining example of science and learning, as well as interracial cooperation.
You have been lucky enough to get a government internship with the Professors at the museum, Professors like, Professor Entermolojenkins and her husband Geolobobkins a well renouned and published Gnome duo.
As an intern at the Natural Museum you'll be helping the professors curate new and interesting exhibits, and assist with studies in the field, as well as further your own personal interests and goals.
The day started like any other, the morning light shining through your window and the sounds of the city waking up, yet this was no day like any other, and this wasn't even your room or window.
The group wakes up for their first day as interns at The Natural Museum in Entree Dieu De La Mir. The accommodations although shared were quite adequate and spacious, much better than your one bedroom apartment in the city, and best of all there isn't any rent and free meals, but you are also at work which means you don't really have time for breakfast anyway, in fact the group realizes that they slept in and if they don't get a move on they'll be late for their first meeting with Professor Entomolojenkins in her office, not the best first impression to be making with your new bosses.
Zakery Quack
"Morning friends! the name is Zakery.. Zakery Quack, I guess we didn't have much time for introductions yesterday what with moving into our new quarters. It's a pleasure to meet you all." (Edited)
Astra Xiloscient
"Good morning! I'm Astra Xiloscient. It is a pleasure. We'd better be moving, though!"
Zakery Quack
"Yes don't want to be late for our first day....... although I was once told I'd probably be late to my own funeral I was so slow..... not true of course I have very fast reflexes."
Cyrus
Sorry I'm running late, blasted tiny clocks, who wakes up before the light of the sun anyways.
Kryptstaal
Kryptstaal emerges from behind Zakery like a shadow. A tall, thin wisp of a man with severe facial features, high cheekbones resting above gaunt, skeletal cheeks. He wears dark black leathers with brass buckles, under an obsidian cloak. His long ashen brown hair is slicked back to hang behind his shoulders, drawing attention to his sharp widows peak.
"Greetings. Apologies for my delay... Movement lag."
Zakery Quack
"Morning friend I look forward to working with you all.
The group make their way through the faculty area, down numerous corridors, and past many doors, past store rooms. offices and broom cupboards until they reach the door of Professor Entomolojenkins and Professor Geolobobkins.
Behind the door the unmistakable sound of a large rock tumbler can be heard, as well as the sound of string music straining to be heard over the rumbling of the rock tumbler.
Beside the door you see a message board, there are some posters for classes, as well as a schedule for faculty meetings, there are also a couple of maps pinned up with circled locations. You recognize the maps as being of the mountain range to the north of Entree Dieu De La Mer, but are unsure of why the locations might be circled.
Kryptstaal
"Master Quack... might these be locations of particular interest?"
I quickly look off to the corridor as if distracted by something, before returning my attention to Zak.
"Hmm?"
Zakery Quack
"I'm not sure, I know when I was hired there was a lot of talk about the mountains to the north, I think Professor Geolobobkins has some projects he is overseeing there."
Kryptstaal
"Fascinating." I will just stare at it for a moment. "No. No, we should talk to the Professor first."
Astra Xiloscient
Yes! No need to get expelled on the first day!
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack knocks on the door.*
Knocking on the door the group hears the sound of scuffling behind the door, the music stops, and shortly after so does the rumbling of the rock tumbler.
Professor Entomolojenkins
"Come in."
Astra Xiloscient
Good morning, Professor!
Kryptstaal
"Greetings" *Small bow*
entering the room the group is greeted by a small gnome sitting on a high stool by a desk, she is wearing a headband which sports a collection of different sized lenses, looking at you the lenses make her eyes appear extremely large. She seems to have been working on a specimen of an interesting looking moth.
Looking around the room you see a jumbled and chaotic mess of insect jars, nets, rocks. crystals, minerals, mining equipment, and piles of books on insects. and rocks. Organization doesn't seem to be on either Professor Entomolojenkins or Professor Geolobobkins lost of priorities.
There are awards. plaques, and specimens hanging on walls and sitting on shelves, there also seems to be a layer of fine rock dust on almost everything, the culprit the noisy rock tumbler you heard from outside now sits quietly in the corner.
Professor Entomolojenkins lifts the lenses smiles and waves.
"Welcome welcome come in come in please, it's so nice to finally meet you all, I'm Professor Entomolojenkins."
Kryptstaal
"I am Kryptstaal. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance."
Zakery Quack
"Hello Professor, my name is Zakery... Zakery Quack, it is wonderful to meet you."
Astra Xiloscient
And I am Astra Xiloscient.
Cyrus
"Names Cyrus, looking forward to the opportunity to prove my strength"
Professor Entomolojenkins
"It's wonderful to meet you all.... and not a moment too soon, I've been so busy with a new exhibit, but I've received an urgent message from Professor Botanylania!"
*She nods and removes the headband placing it on the table.*
"It seems that a very particular pollinator has gone missing! The Professor tells me that the Moonpetal flowers pollinator the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth has disappeared from the areas around Entree Dieu De La Mer."
*She reaches over and produces a specimen frame with a beautiful shimmering moth pinned inside, its tail looks like a fuzzy fern which is probably where it gets its name.*
"The Moonpetal flowers nectar is quite valuable in alchemical ingredients and the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth is one of the only natural pollinators for the flower."
*She returns the specimen frame to its place on the table.*
"So I'm sorry to throw you all in the deep end like this, but I'd like for you to track down the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth swarm so that we can work on returning them to their natural habitat and mend the rift their absence has created."
Cyrus
"Ahh yess the thrill of the chase. What more can you tell me of this puny creature" he says as he starts to stertch
Astra Xiloscient
"Of course! That sounds exciting! When we find them, do we...catch them with a net? Ask them to move?"
Professor Entomolojenkins
"Both great questions! The Moonpetal flowers emit a specific magnetic field which the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth are attuned to and use in their migration, we need to discover why and where they have gone, once we know this we can work on how we get them back again."
*She rummages around on her desk producing a schedule, mumbling to herself as she runs her finger over it.*
"Professor Botanylania is currently in her office, you should definitely talk to her about a good place to start looking."
*she looks over the schedule again momentarily.*
"And Professor Geolobobkins is currently on a dig site surveying a new location for a quarry in the mountains to the north of Entree Dieu De La Mer, I'm positive he has his shiny toy with him which you will find invaluable in tracking down the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth."
Cyrus
"How long will they both be in their locations. I for one would like to see Professor G to get some fresh air." Cyrus says as he glances around the room looking for anything of note
Professor Entomolojenkins
"Professor Geolobobkins will be at the dig all day, but Professor Botanylania will only be available in her office in the morning, after that it wouldn't be practical to see her as she has classes, and meetings."
Looking around the room the most interesting thing @Cyrus sees is a lot of heavy equipment for digging and mining, and thoughts play through his mind of what kind of damage they might inflict when wielded. In the end he decided that the rotating stone slicing saw blade with diamond tip teeth, would probably be the most satisfying to use.
Astra Xiloscient
Let's go see Professor B.!
Cyrus
"Professor Entomolojen, do you think you could lend me that diamond laced saw blade? I am a connoisseur of weapons and would like to see what that feels like in action."
Astra Xiloscient
To...kill...moths? I don't think that's our job...
Professor Entomolojenkins
*@Professor Entomolojenkins just blinks and stares at @Cyrus unsure if he's joking or not*
"That's something you'd have to ask Professor Geolobobkins, it's one of his toys."
Cyrus
There are more things out in the wild than just moths Astra. Cyrus blinks and stares back at the professor and says hmmmm okay I shall ask him.
Kryptstaal
"What, precisely, do you require such a weapon for?"
Cyrus
"One can never have too many options for weapons when out in the wild"
Kryptstaal
"Very well..."
Zakery Quack
"I'm in agreement with@Cyrus, my personal favourite is the Professors rock crushing jack hammer, I had the pleasure of using it at a quarry once, and I remember thinking to myself this would really mess someone's day up."
Professor Entomolojenkins
*staring at the group and the rather violent and morbid conversation she shakes her head to regain some sense.*
"Well I don't want to keep you all, Professor Botanylania will be heading off to classes soon and you don't want to miss her."
Astra Xiloscient
"Let's go! Thanks Professor!"
Zakery Quack
"Yes thank you Professor."
Cyrus
Cyrus gives a cheeky grin to professor and leaves with the group
The group leave Professor Entomolojenkins and continue through the faculty area heading down to the ground floor and towards the greenhouses and nursery where Professor Botanylanias office can be located. Arriving they find that the door is open and the Professor is swooning around her office watering plants.
Professor Botanylanias office is a stark contrast to Professor Entomolojenkins and Geolobobkins, everything is neatly arranged on shelves and labeled, her desk is neat and orderly, there are many books which line the shelves all coded and labeled and the space is full of potted and hanging plants, which are also labeled and noticably well cared for.
As you arrive in her doorway she turns and greets you warmly with a smile and a wave.
"Good morning everyone, what can I help you with on this glorious sunny day."
Cyrus
What information can you give us that might help us on our quest.
Astra Xiloscient
Specifically Professor, we are looking to see if you can guide us to where we might find the Velvet-Tailed-Moon-Moth. Moreover, we were wondering if we might try using your diamond laced saw blade. There are a few tests we would like to try. I apologize for the direct nature of this request, but we are acutely aware that you have class soon.
Cyrus
*Whispering*
Wrong professor for the blade
Astra Xiloscient
"Oh, excuse my ignorance - that is not your blade. I'm struggling to make my way around here today let alone remember what belongs to whom!"
Professor Botanylania
*She laughs in a warm and friendly way, covering her mouth with her hand as she does.*
"No apologies necessary, I spoke to Professor Entomolojenkins, and have been expecting you."
*She hands @Astra Xiloscient a scroll.*
"Here is a map of the Moonpetal flowers habitat, you'll notice there are two main areas of concentration,
The Botanical Grove: A large, well-known nature reserve, and easily accessible near the city of Entree Dieu De La Mer.
and
The Hanging Grove: Smaller, deep in the mountain wilderness to the north of Entree Dieu De La Mer.
If I were you I'd start my investigations at one of these locations."
+1 Professor Botanylania's Moonpetal flower
Cyrus
Cyrus moves some of the books out of order when professor isn't looking
Professor Botanylania
*She smiles warmly*
"Was there anything else I can help you with today?"
Cyrus
Are there any of your leafy things you can give us? I am intrigued by these plants a former mercenary told me about that boosted his strength and allowed him to best an ogre with his fists alone
Professor Botanylania
"hmmm I don't condone doping, but I have heard Professor Geolobobkins talking about Ironroot, which some of the miners use."
*She looks over a shelf near @Cyrus, replacing the books he moved, then pulls out a sprig of root and hands it to him*
"Be careful though, I don't think it's healthy to push the body for an extended period."
+1 Ironroot 1 dose
Cyrus
"I thank you for your kindness professor. @Astra Xiloscient anything important in the map? I'm leaning towards the wilderness, been cooped up all day in this building."
Zakery Quack
"The wilderness does sound refreshing, after we see Professor Geolobobkins at the quarry site of course."
Astra Xiloscient
Then we can head to one of the two groves on my map.
Cyrus
Oh yes, how could I forget Professor Geo
Astra Xiloscient
"The botanical grove seems easier to access than the hanging grove, but we should find out how far both are from here. We may need to get camping supplies."
Professor Botanylania
"Camping supplies sounds like a good investment, depending on how long it takes you to track down the Velvet-tailed-moon-moth, but I'm sure Professor Geolobobkins will have everything you need, he's been out there with Professor Bert Ernstien for a few days now...... it's been so wonderfuly quiet."
Cyrus
Can I get a read on if she is acting like someone who is just giving a friend a hard time or if there is actual beef between the two
(@Professor Botanylania is smiling, she obviously cares a lot about her colleagues and seems to be a generally happy and caring elf, @Cyrus looking about actually sees a picture on her desk of her and Professor Bert Ernstien, it looks like they are on an island beach with a baby blue dragon.)
Cyrus
"I bet there is a story behind this!" He says to @Professor Botanylania. What was the occasion?"
Professor Botanylania
"Oh yes Bert....... Professor Bert Ernstien and I spent a wonderful couple of days on one of the South East islands after a particularly terrible typhoon had struck the region. He had gone to check on the wildlife, in particular a clutch of baby blue dragons, and I was there to assess the damage to the local plant life and habitat. It was almost like a vacation."
*her eyes gaze off, obviously remembering a well spent time and seems to have forgotten you are even there.*
Cyrus
"What became of the baby dragons?"
Professor Botanylania
"Hmmmm"
*Returning to reality from her daydreaming*
"probably all grown up and left the island.... you'd have to ask Professor Bert Ernstien about that, I don't know much about dragons"
Cyrus
"I do not think I'm familiar with professor ernie, What is his claim to fame
Professor Botanylania
"Professor Bert Ernstien, is the resident Professor for biology and animal husbandry, he's also one of the only humans working at the Natural Museum and on the Council for Natural Preservation and Biodiversity."
Cyrus
"Where might he be found? We need to talk to professor Geo, but a master of biology and animal husbandry surely would be able to give us some tips"
Professor Botanylania
"Both Professor Geolobobkins and Professor Bert Ernstien are at the quarry site, takes a lot of animals to work and set up a quarry."
Kryptstaal
"May I just note..."
Kryptstaal, previously quiet as a shadow emerges from behind Cyrus unexpectedly. "...that your surnames are extraordinary convenient and appropriate for someone or someone's unfamiliar with your work, and in need of learning your names.... You appear to have joined the appropriate professions..."
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack jumps in surprise*
"oh you startled us, I forgot you were there you were so quiet."
Kryptstaal
"Apologies..."
Professor Botanylania
"Yes makes you wonder about fate and destiny."
Kryptstaal
"Such topics are frequently on my own mind... very appropriate indeed..."
Professor Botanylania
"Was there anything else I can help you with before you go, it is almost time for my first class this morning"
Kryptstaal
"Well, I am unsure what the schools of bontany can provide for my own personal endeavours.... but it cannot hurt to enquire. Do you have any familiarity with blood curses? Particularly around Hexblood...?"
Professor Botanylania
"That's a difficult question and quite far removed from my expertise, but if I was in your shoes I'd research my family history and find out why and how it came to be, I'd probably start in the city of Summer in the Eastern Woods, The Great Repository has information dating back to the dawn of time and meticulously studied by those who live there, the city is also a shining star of beauty in this world although as an Elf I may be somewhat biased in this regard."
Kryptstaal
"Biased for good reason... indeed, thank you for your guidance, Professor."
Zakery Quack
"So I guess it's off to see the rocks..... I mean Professor Geolobobkins at the Quarry Site?!"
Astra Xiloscient
"Let's go."
Cyrus
*Nods in agreement
The group leaves The Natural Museum heading to the docks where they board a chartered ship taking supplies to the quarry site.
The chartered ship heads North towards the mountains arriving at a river estuary early the following morning at which point it heads inland to the city of Fundo.
There the equipment and cargo is loaded onto carts before heading to the quarry, arriving late in the afternoon.
Upon arriving at the quarry site the group is met by Professor Geolobobkins and Professor Bert Ernstien, who are both covered head to toe in rock dust, Professor Bert Ernstien is holding the bridal of a rather awkward looking donkey, both men smile and wave as you approach.
Around them the group sees a lot of heavy equipment for digging and measurement readings, as well as a long table with different rock, mineral, and core samples. Behind the Professors is a very rustic wooden shack, presumably where the crew sleep and store inventory.
"Welcome welcome!!"
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Yes welcome, it's wonderful to finally meet you all, Professor Entomolojenkins let us know you would be arriving today."
Cyrus
"Greetings professors! I hope your day has been strong so far"
Professor Geolobobkins
"Strong and long my friend. We've been drilling core samples all day..... so much fun."
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack moves to the table touching each core sample, running his fingers over the rough stone.*
"It's wonderful to see you again Professor Geolobobkins."
Professor Geolobobkins
"And you Zakery my boy."
Cyrus
"What insight can you give us on this moth and flower situation" Cyrus says as he browses his surroundings
Professor Geolobobkins
"Yes yes, I have just the thing for you!"
*he points to a cart with a very large machine attached to the back, the donkey also looks and sighs.*
"That machine is my pride and joy, I built it with the help of Lord Pims the third himself! It's a wonderful piece of machinery which can sense magnetic fields."
*claps his hands excitedly*
"Now I'm sure Professor Entomolojenkins told you that these fuzzy wuzzy bugs of hers use magnetic fields to navigate and find the fancy flowers Professor Botanylanias loves, this Magnetometer will be able to locate the signature of the bugs field which you'll be able to follow ... and .... Voilà! find your fuzzy wuzzy bugs!"
Cyrus
Ahh very nice thank you! Seeing all your tools around here reminded me of your diamond toothed saw blade, any way you could lend it to me for out journey?
Professor Geolobobkins
"Expecting to be cutting lots of rocks on your trip are we?"
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Speaking of your trip, have you decided where you will begin your investigations?"
Cyrus
"@Professor Geolobobkins you never know when you might need to cut a rock ya know what I mean. @Professor Bert Ernstien we have some ideas is there any tips or insight you might be able to add?"
Professor Geolobobkins
"Yes I know exactly what you mean!"
*Obviously doesn't know what @Cyrus means*
"I love cutting rocks, I'm working on a new technique that will allow us to cut extremely thin slices, imagine what we'll learn about the internal structure and mineral configuration this way!"
Professor Bert Ernstien
*Looks at Professor Geolobobkins and smiles*
"Well location wise The Hanging Garden is probably the closest, but as far as ease of access and safety, The Botanical Gardens would be your choice. Which were you leaning towards, and perhaps I can tell you more about the location."
Professor Geolobobkins
*@Professor Geolobobkins picks up the very bulky and heavy looking saw and battery pack and hands it to @Cyrus.*
"Be careful with it, and be sure to return it once you're done ....... and please clean, and oil it before returning, we don't want rock and dust clogging the blade or connectors."
Cyrus
"This thing has seen some work, thanks again" Cyrus clutches his forearm as a sign of respect
Astra Xiloscient
"I believe we were thinking of going to the Hanging Garden first, the idea of exploring the wilderness was intriguing."
Cyrus
"@Kryptstaal what thinks you my good lad?"
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Well if that's your plan you might want to wait until tomorrow morning to depart. The paths through the mountains are treacherous and prone to bandits."
Cyrus
"Are you trying to tempt me, it has been too long since I beat up a bunch of bandits"
Professor Bert Ernstien
"I'm glad you feel that way, field work can be quite dangerous and unpredictable at times."
Cyrus
I guess we shall wait til morning to give everyone a chance to get their bearings. Surely danger will find us eventually
Professor Geolobobkins
"You're welcome to stay here if you like."
*points to the wooden shack behind them.*
"Or you can stay at one of the Inns in Fundo, if you do I'd recommend 'The Broken Anvil'."
Cyrus
Cyrus goes and checks out the shack and its amenities
Looking inside the shack @Cyrus sees an open space, to the right are stacked crates full of meal provisions and tools. To the left rucksacks and bedrolls. there are windows but they have no glass panes.
Looking again you conclude that the shack itself is made from the timber of the supply crates and its main purpose is storage, the ability to sleep inside and shelter from the elements is an afterthought.
Cyrus
"Thank you for the offer Professor, but I think a good nights rest at the inn will give us the strength for the journey ahead"
Kryptstaal
"I am impartial. I defer to the judgement of the professors. If one is recommended to be tackled first... then that is where we should begin.
Zakery Quack
"oh how exciting, it's been some time since I've been to an inn and never in Fundo."
Kryptstaal
Perhaps the botanical gardens if it is easier to access and safer...." I look off distractedly for a moment.
"...hmm? Yes. No of course. Whichever works best..."
Zakery Quack
*pats @Kryptstaal on the back*
"The mountain air will do you good ...... maybe put some colour into that pale complexion of yours."
Cyrus
"Brothers let us drink at the inn and sleep our worries away for on the morrow we will journey to the gardens as kryptstaal has foretold"
Kryptstaal
"Hm... Perhaps."
Kryptstaal
"@Astra Xiloscient may I see the map?"
Astra Xiloscient
"Of course here you are."
Kryptstaal
"Hmm... Do you mind if I hang on to it for a while whilst I study it?" I look off to the right and then back to the paper. "I will get to it...."
Cyrus
Cyrus claps @Kryptstaal on the back jovially, yet a little too strong. "Well met!"
Kryptstaal
I stumble forward slightly, but do not go comedically flying off into the distance, luckily.
Astra Xiloscient
"Yes of course, hold on to it for as long as you need."
Astra Xiloscient
"we'll return in the morning for the Magnetometer, thank you for your help Professors."
Zakery Quack
"Yes thank you Professors."
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Good, get some rest you'll have a big day tomorrow, it's a good two days travel to the Hanging Garden from here so we'll be sure to load the cart with camping supplies, food and water for you."
Professor Geolobobkins
"Yes enjoy yourselves and let Cedric know that Professor Geolobobkins said to put your stay and meal on the Museums tab....... you have to pay for your own drinks though sorry, government spending doesn't look too fondly on alcohol bills.... unless it's for a faculty celebration or something like that."
Kryptstaal
"Understandable, and quite generous indeed.... thank you."
The group takes their leave and heads back down through the well trodden roads of the mountains to Fundo arriving late in the afternoon.
As they travel they see other groups returning from the many mines and quarries in the area and from their vantage point above the city get a glimpse of the many factories, smelting works, and other labour industries which call Fundo home.
Arriving at 'The Broken Anvil' the group sees that it is quite large and imagine given the nature of Fundo as a mining and industrial city that most of the bars and inns are probably quite popular and busy.
Outside the inn as you reach the door is a very large anvil which is cracked down the middle, there seems to be inscriptions of some kind written all over it, and it looks as though it was well used before it cracked. The metal it is made from is unusual and not your average iron, which is probably why Professor Geolobobkins likes the inn and you imagine he has spent a lot of time studying it.
A large fire burns in the center of the room. and it looks as if it used to be the smelting pit of an old forge.
"This is cozy."
*rubbing his hands together.*
Astra Xiloscient
"Good choice @Cyrus"
Cyrus
Cyrus signals for the barkeep and orders a Barbarian Brain freeze and asks "what do you recommend for food?"
The bartender who comes to @Cyrus to take his order stops for a moment then asks;
"What's a Barbarian Brain Freeze?"
Cyrus
A frozen blue drink that hits like a greatclub. Instant, skull-shattering brainfreeze unless you rage.
Bartender
"Interesting, what's in it?"
Cyrus
Barbarian Brainfreeze
A frozen blue drink that hits like a greatclub to the skull.
Ingredients
Crushed Frost Giant Ice
Shaved from an enchanted chunk that never melts.
Causes the instant brainfreeze.
Blueberry Mead
Fermented in barrels beaten into shape with greataxes
A Splash of Yeti Milk
Gives it a creamy chill and a faint growl aftertaste.
Lightning Syrup
Sticky, sweet, and harvested from trapped storm sprites. Adds a buzzing tingle on your tongue.
A Drop of Rage Pepper Extract
Made from peppers only barbarians eat raw. Raises internal temperature just enough to survive the frost.
Frost Mint Leaves
For garnish and to freshen the roar you make after drinking it.
Bartender
*The bartenders jaw drops*
"Ummm we don't have any of that stuff here..... and that concoction would likely kill you! How about I make you a blue drink on crushed ice and we'll go from there?"
Cyrus
As long as it's strong my good lad
Cyrus
As Cyrus waits for his drink he surveys the bar looking for different activities, perhaps arm wrestling, or patrons of note.
The bartender starts making @Cyrus his drink, seems they have milk, blueberry wine, a clear spirit and mint, the bar uses tools which look like they belong at a blacksmiths, crushing the ice with a large hammer, stirring the mixture with a screwdriver, shaking it in a casting mold, then pouring it into a wooden jug, looking at the mixture @Cyrus sees that it is blue, has a sprig of mint for garnish, and smells strong, probably because of the clear spirit used.
Bartender
"Enjoy my large friend."
Looking around @Cyrus doesn't see any games currently being played but he does see a leader board and signup sheet.
It seems that 'The Broken Anvil' is part of 'The Great Continent Inn Association Cooperative Games Challenge Championship'. Whatever that might be.
@Cyrus sees that there is arm wrestling, blackjack, and chess, but the games don't start until later in the evening.
Cyrus
Cyrus gives the barkeep a nod in appreciation and signs up for the arm wrestling competition
Kryptstaal
"Blackjack...."
bartender
"Yes every night we hold games, you are welcome to sign up if you like."
Astra Xiloscient
"We were told to speak to Cedric on our arrival."
Zakery Quack
"We don't like games."
The large dwarf who was polishing glasses speaks up.
Cedric 'The Broken Anvil Inn'
"I'm Cedric what can I do for you?"
Astra Xiloscient
"We are here for the night before heading to the Hanging Garden, Professor Geolobobkins said you had a tab for The Natural Museum and if you would put our meals and room on the tab."
Looking at the menu board the group sees that there are fried potato, green salad, and steak and vegetables, the soup seems to be minestrone soup.
Cyrus
Cyrus orders one of everything while he waits for the arm wrestling to start
Cedric 'The Broken Anvil Inn'
"That devil said that did he"
*gives a gravelly chuckle*
"We'll if you're from the museum I'll put it on his tab, I don't blame you for wanting to stay in town before heading out into the mountains as opposed to sleeping in that out house they all sleep in out at the quarry site. Enjoy your evening and give my regards to Geo."
Kryptstaal
"We appreciate your hospitality, Master Cedric."
Zakery Quack
"hmmm I think I'll have the Fried Potato and Steak and Veg thanks."
Astra Xiloscient
"Green Salad and Steak and Vegetables for me thank you."
bartender
*@Kryptstaal *
"Anything for you my pale friend, some hot soup and steak will put some colour in your cheeks."
Kryptstaal
"Iron... yes.... and calcium... Steak and milk please...."
Kryptstaal
"....seperate, preferably."
Cyrus
Cyrus is doing stretches as he waits for his food and eyes the fellow patrons for whom might be other arm wrestler contestants
Astra Xiloscient
*While waiting @Astra Xiloscient strums her lute and sings*
"High peaks embrace,
Where the Hanging Grove awaits,
Cold stone paths ascend.
Pale wings of the Moon-Moth call,
Nectar waits for the return."
The groups meals arrive in short order and the portions do not disappoint.
They enjoy their delicious meal and as the evening progresses they notice the bartenders beginning to set up tables, for the games.
Kryptstaal
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack starts to look restless, agitated, and begins fidgeting.*
"Nope nope Zakery Quack is off to bed, we don't like games no we don't."
Kryptstaal
"Are you alright?"
Zakery Quack
"No! games and me don't mix, we have the trauma."
Kryptstaal
"Game... trauma? I am not one to judge. Very well, Master Quack."
Zakery Quack
"Yes! game trauma! especially chess it makes my brains hurt."
Kryptstaal
"That is fair. It is a complex game..."
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack gets up thanks Cedric and the bartenders and heads up stairs to their room, not so accidentally bumping the chess table and knocking the pieces onto the floor as he passes.*
"Sorry sorry, my mistake."
*and then he is gone for the evening, leaving the others to enjoy the nights games.*
Eventually the tables are set for the nights games and you are able to participate.
there are three tables for chess, one table for blackjack with eight seats available, and five tables for arm wrestling. It seems that arm wrestling and blackjack are the more popular activities here at the Broken Anvil, with people already jostling for a seat.
Looking at the notice board it seems winners receive points based on wins or money won, with the Inns top points earners taking part in the competitions held by 'The Great Continent Inn Association', this seems to happen monthly with competition winners taking part in the championships at the end of the year.
Cyrus
Cyrus moves and takes a seat at the first arm wrestling table
Kryptstaal
I shall join the Blackjack table...
Moving to take a seat at the arm wrestling table @Cyrus is directed to a table sitting across from a halfling, judging from his clothes....and smell he's probably a farmer from around the city.
As @Cyrus sits he leans over with a big grin and an outstretched hand.
Curly McCurls
"Hello friend!"
@Kryptstaal takes a seat at the blackjack table to the left and two seats down from the dealer. The other chairs quickly fill with players of all types.
@Cedric comes to the table and puts his hand on the dealers shoulder.
Cedric 'The Broken Anvil Inn'
"This isn't a bank or casino you all have 500 tin caps, at the end your tin cap tally will be added to your current points score, any cheating and well forfeiting all your points will be the least of your problems. Have a fun game."
Cedric then moves to the arm wrestling tables.
Cedric 'The Broken Anvil Inn'
"Best of three against your opponent, winner moves on until only one victor remains, your total wins are added to your current score. enjoy."
Cyrus
@Curly McCurls "well met lad" *Cyrus then grips his hand and gives a "menacing" grin (Edited)
The pair shake then square off.
As @Cyrus and @Curly McCurls begin it seems that @Cyrus has the upper hand moving his opponents hand to inches away from the tables surface as both strain for dominance.
@Curly McCurls is shaken by @Cyruss menacing presence.
with a loud crash @Cyrus slams @Curly McCurls hand down on the table.
Curly McCurls
"Aaah!"
*@Curly McCurls exclaims in shock and a little pain*
"let me get a glass of milk and we'll go for round two"
*@Curly McCurls quickly returns and downs his glass making a satisfying sigh as he does then wipes his mouth on his sleeve, then looking at @Cyrus with steely eyes*
"Ok I'm ready!"
*places his hand in position.*
Straining against @Cyrus, @Curly McCurls pushes @Cyruss hand towards the table, a glint in his eyes.
But @Cyrus gathers himself pushing back against the halfling.
Cyrus
"Finally a worthy foe!" Cyrus proclaims
Again the halfling pushes back against the half orc the barbarians hand inches away from the table.
the struggle continues beads of sweat begin to drip down @Curly McCurls face as his stamina begins to falter.
@Cyrus pushes the halflings hand back to the center as @Curly McCurls begins to breathe heavily.
@Cyrus pushes @Curly McCurls hand towards the table sweat dripping from the halflings face as he struggles to stay in the game.
Again @Curly McCurls hand is slammed into the table, his face darkens as he realizes he has lost.
One of the bartenders comes up to the table.
Bartender
"Nice job ok..."
*Checks the sign up sheet*
"@Cyrus you can move over to the next table for your second match, good luck."
*Looking at @Curly McCurls *
"Sorry Curls looks like your night is over this time."
Curly McCurls
"No problem...... Thank you for the match @Cyrus | enjoyed it."
*And with that he gets up and leaves the Inn.*
Cyrus
Cyrus chugs a mug of ale before moving to next table
Garry Gelve
*@Garry Gelve stands as @Cyrus approaches.*
"We'll met friend, the names @Garry Gelve"
Cyrus
Does a forearm clasp with @Garry Gelve. "May our match be legendary Garry!"
The two take a seat and square off hands clasped tight @Cyrus can tell Garry is a very different opponent than Curly. Garry obviously works in a mine, the smell of minerals and sweat thick on him, scars reveal a past of combat and his distant stare has known the horrors of war.
@Cyrus pushes @Garry Gelves hand towards the table.
With a crash @Cyrus slams @Garry Gelves hand into the table, the miner slams his fists on the table clearly disappointed, then quickly returns his hand ready for round two.
Again the two combatants struggle against each other @Cyrus gaining the upper hand and pushing @Garry Gelves hand towards the table.
Kryptstaal
"Very well..." I say, somewhat distracted by the armwrestling.
Pushing back @Garry Gelve is able to prevent the half orc from gaining any further ground but is unable to shift the contest back into his favor, remaining inches away from the table.
@Garry Gelve is unable to hold out any longer as @Cyrus pushes his hand down on the table.
Cyrus
Cyrus bellows out in excitement and yells at @Kryptstaal to look and does the pec bouncing move
Garry Gelve
*clearly disappointed*
"Thank you for the lesson."
*He quickly leaves the Inn*
The bartenders comes up to the table.
Bartender
"Nice job, don't mind Garry he always does that but I think he enjoyed himself."
*Checks the sign up sheet*
"@Cyrus you can move over to the next table for your third and final match, good luck."
Kryptstaal
"...Curious. Your pectorals appear to be under some sort of enchantment or conjuration magics...." *Scribbles down notes*
Cyrus
Cyrus goes and gets another ale for him and ale for @Astra Xiloscient. He gives it to her and asks "any words of strength or strategy for me my friend?"
Astra Xiloscient
"Sure good luck and don't drink too much, we have a big day tomorrow, and more importantly alcohol isn't on the tab."
Cyrus
Cyrus blinks and blinks and blinks at @Astra Xiloscientand then goes and takes his seat
@Kryptstaal takes his seat with the other blackjack players, there doesn't seem to be much conversation and they all look as though they take this very seriously.
Looking around the table Kryptstaal sees there are a lot of different types of people a Dragonborn, a Guard, aShop owner, a blackjack player probably a local farmer, a blacksmith, a miner, and traveler.
@Cyrus takes his seat where his final opponent waits.
Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co.
"Well met .... shall we then."
*places his arm on the table ready to start*
Cyrus
Cyrus cracks his neck and takes a moment to analyze his opponent then places his arm on the table ready to start
Kryptstaal
"I am prepared."
Kryptstaal
*250 tins*
looking at the dwarf sitting across from him @Cyrus sees he is well built, probably from his job, his uniform reads Black Hammer Smithing Co.
Scars reveal a past of battle and the facial tattoos suggest a dwarven berserker. perhaps a challenging opponent.
@Cyrus pushes with all his might moving the dwarfs hand towards the table, but the going is tuff, they seem very evenly matched.
out of nowhere @Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co. uses all his might crashing the half orcs hand into the table, the table smashes into pieces and the two are left staring at each other across an empty space.
A bartender rushes up sweeping away the debris while another brings in a fresh table and drink replacement for @Cyrus who's previous drink now lays empty on the floor with the broken table.
Kryptstaal
"Cyrus!"
Cyrus downs the tankard in one swift motion and throws it to the barkeep. He stares deep into @Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co. eyes lets out a low guttural growl and flares his menacing teeth in an attempt to intimidate bal
Blackjack Dealer
*The @Blackjack Dealer looks at his players paying no attention to the commotion by the arm wrestling tables and begins to shuffle the deck.*
"Minimum bid is 25 tins."
Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co.
"are you all bark and no bite? let's play."
Kryptstaal
"I bet 250."
The other players place their tin caps on the table awaiting their cards.
Blackjack Dealer
*The @Blackjack Dealer deals out the cards*
@Cyrus pushes with all his might moving the dwarfs hand towards the table, but the going is tuff, @Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co. is making @Cyrus fight hard for every inch.
@Cyrus finally pushes @Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co. hand down on the table he can clearly hear the sound of the dwarf grinding his teeth.
Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co.
"Final round, may the best dwarf win."
*Produces his arm to continue.*
Cyrus
"All bark and no bite eh" he grins and winks
Perhaps the dwarf is getting tired as @Cyrus easily pushes his hand towards the table, then he notices that the dwarf is beginning to turn red and his eyes bulge, @Cyrus recognizes the signs of rage as a fellow barbarian.
The cards are dealt and Kryptstaal looks at his hand an Ace and a nine.
Kryptstaal
III stand
The other blackjack players all take a card except for the traveler who stays at on seventeen.
@Cyrus finished off his opponent slamming the dwarfs hand onto the table.
The dwarf freezes and @Cyrus worries for a moment that the raging dwarf might reach for a weapon, but the dwarf slowly calms down returning to himself a look of disappointment on his face at losing to a traveler, and a half orc one at that.
Bartender
"Congratulations @Cyrus you are our winner of the arm wrestling for this evening."
Bal of Black Hammer Smithing Co.
*nods in acceptance*
"Well done stranger."
*and with that the dwarf leaves the Inn*
The players look at their cards some more happy than others, especially the Miner who looks disappointed that he busted with twenty three.
Looking at their cards the @blacksmith blackjack player and @blackjack player both reluctantly pass on seventeen.
The Dealer them turns over his cards, revealing a four and an Ace.
Cyrus
Cyrus heads to the blackjack table to watch and cheer @Kryptstaalon
The @Blackjack Dealer collects the cards and tin caps from the @miner blackjack player who had busted.
The @Shop owner blackjack player claps his hands as he sits on twenty one.
The @Blackjack Dealer deals himself a card as he looks at his four and Ace, and received another four.
Kryptstaal
Blackjack Dealer
*looking at another four the dealer looks to the players*
"Nineteen dealer stays"
the @Blackjack Dealer collects the tin caps and pays out those who held cards of nineteen and above.
Kryptstaal
"Very good. Again." *pushes forward 500*
The players place their tin caps on the table and the @Blackjack Dealer deals out the cards for the next round.
Kryptstaal
13, hit!
Kryptstaal
Smack my ass up
Looking at their hands the other players also hit.
Kryptstaal now has two six's and a seven.
Kryptstaal
III stay
Looking at their cards the other players also stay, except for the traveler who has busted on twenty six.
The dealer collects the travelers tin caps and cards.
The dealer turns over his cards revealing a five and a ten, the dealer then deals himself a card which turns up an eight.
Blackjack Dealer
"Dealer busts."
The @Blackjack Dealer clears the table and pays out the players all except for the @traveler blackjack player who busted.
The @traveler blackjack player sighs looks at his remaining fifty tin caps stands and leaves the table.
Cyrus
Cyrus falls asleep at his table while watching completely confused on what was happening to begin with
Kryptstaal
750
Kryptstaal
*Slides forward*
The players place their bets for round three.
The dealer hands out the cards for round three.
Turning over a ten and then an ace, the @blacksmith blackjack player grumbles.
blacksmith blackjack player
"so close."
Kryptstaal receives a three and a two.
Kryptstaal
Im gonna need to hit on that.
All the players hit, all except the @blacksmith blackjack player who is comfortably sitting on twenty one.
Kryptstaal
14. Hit
The players look at their new cards and reluctantly hit knowing this could be their last hand.
Kryptstaal receives a six putting his total at twenty.
Kryptstaal
Stay
The Guard and the Miner both bust and look disappointed.
The dealer clears their cards and bets, while the other players stay.
The dealer turns over his cards revealing a nine and a ten.
Blackjack Dealer
"Nineteen dealer stays."
The dealer clears the table paying the winners.
Kryptstaal
*1000*
The @Blackjack Dealer deals out the cards for the fourth and final round.
The @Blackjack Dealer looks down at his Ace face up and offers protection to the players, which they all take, feeling uncomfortable at the prospect of a dealer blackjack on the last hand
Kryptstaal looks at his eight and two.
Kryptstaal
Hit
Kryptstaal receives a ten putting his total at twenty.
Kryptstaal
Stay
The other players look at their cards and stay most at seventeen and eighteen, except for the Dragonborn on nineteen, and the Miner who busts on twenty three.
the @Blackjack Dealer reveals his second card showing a four, and hits.
The @Blackjack Dealer reaches seventeen and stays.
collecting the losing players money.
The @Shop owner blackjack player , @miner blackjack player , and @blacksmith blackjack player look at their tin caps and leave the table receiving their points and leaving the Inn.
Kryptstaal
"How many tins should I aim to earn to be the victor...?"
Bartender
"Tin caps are tallied up each month for competitions between Inns in each city, the winners of these competitions play in intercity competitions, and those winners go on to the end of year championships.
Generally you need a combined score of 10000 for city competitions, 30000 for intercity competitions, and over 100000 for the end of year championships. for the other competitions the points are lower but the premise is the same."
Kryptstaal
"And the prize?"
Bartender
"Trophies for the winners and Inn as well as monetary prizes for the top three."
Looking around it seems that the evening is drawing to a close, @Astra Xiloscient helps @Kryptstaal carry @Cyrus to bed after he fell asleep watching the card game. Arriving in their room they find @Zakery Quack snoring away in his bed.
The room isn't much, four small beds, and a table with four chairs, but it's definitely more comfortable than Professor Geolobobkins shack, and you expect you'll feel much more refreshed and ready to tackle the mountain rounds come morning.
Kryptstaal
I head to bed with my pockets full of Tins
Kryptstaal
And then I remember that I'm supposed to return them.
"If we had started with gold I would have multiplied by money by 25...."
Kryptstaal
So ill return them and then go to bed
The group wakes up early ready to depart for the quarry and to pickup their supplies before heading into the mountains towards the Hanging Garden.
Despite his drinking @Cyrus is surprisingly chipper and the group meet downstairs in the Inn for breakfast before leaving.
The Inn is already busy with people leaving for work or returning from the nightshift, looking at the menu there only seems to be one option, Coffee, with eggs. bacon, grilled tomatoes, beans, mushrooms and toast.
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack is already at the table when the others arrive stuffing food into his mouth, and washing it down with a large coffee.*
"Good morning friends!"
*mouth full of food*
"Zakery is ready for another exciting day!"
Cyrus
Cyrus joins the table and starts eating and asks @Zakery Quack"did you hear the exploits of our adventure last night?"
Kryptstaal
I will be sure to join them.
Coffee extremely milky but I consume several to make sure I get a high caffeine dose. I happily consume the protein rich meal. I look off distracted "Hmm? Oh. Yes. Many exploits wete had." (Edited)
Zakery Quack
"The Bartender did mention an upset in the Inns rankings, and showed me the leader board, but no details. I am sorry I missed the arm wrestling, but the thought of cards, and chess turns my stomach."
Astra Xiloscient
"It was quite impressive Zakery."
Cyrus
"@Zakery Quack I have always found that a good tale helps add to your constitution when eating a meal, care to tell why you have such an aversion to cards and dice?"
Zakery Quack
"Yes I have the trauma. The Dr says it is a PTSD. I served in the Taluna Sea war. during the war I was shipwrecked, I survived by eating the crate of games I washed up with, mainly playing cards and board games, to this day the sight of these things turns my stomach and fills my head with rage."
Cyrus
"You say rage like it's a bad thing" *Cyrus flares his eyes red to show he too is blessed with rage*
Zakery Quack
"No no it is not good because I have no control, it is a seriousness which my love of rocks has helped me deal with."
Cyrus
"Perhaps in our downtime I can teach you how to harness it in your favor as my master once did for me"
Zakery Quack
"The Dr says talking about it is healthy and will help but it is not something I want to keep, I hope to one day be able to play the board game with Professor Geolobobkins.... without wanting to kill him."
Cyrus
Very well
Kryptstaal
"I am sorry to hear.... that must have been difficult...."
Zakery Quack
"Yes it did not taste good at all."
The group finish their breakfast and set out towards the quarry making good time and arriving well before lunch.
When they arrive Professor Geolobobkins and Professor Bert Ernstien are waiting for them, with the professors is the awkward looking donkey which is now harnessed to a large cart. The cart has been loaded with tents, two crates of provisions, some geological tools, and a very large machine which has been covered with a tarp and strapped down securely.
As you approach the professors wave and greet you.
Professor Geolobobkins
"Welcome back my friends, I hope you slept well. Did you visit the Broken Anvil as I suggested?"
Cyrus
"@Professor Geolobobkins That we did professor! Was a night to remember, thanks for the suggestion."
Kryptstaal
"Indeed..... I am the proud owner of 12500 tins...."
Professor Geolobobkins
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves, with over 10 thousand tins you'll be invited to the intercity competition this month, I'll be sure to drop in and see Cedric about how to contact you."
Professor Bert Ernstien
"We have loaded the cart with everything we thought you might need, camping equipment, provisions, geological tools, and of course the magnetometer. @Matilda is a good donkey."
*Gives her a carrot and pets her behind the ears*
"You'll also find food for Matilda on the cart, as well as a spare harness."
Cyrus
"Is everybody else ready? Adventure awaits!"
Professor Geolobobkins
"I like your enthusiasm! Do you know how to use the magnetometer?"
Cyrus
"No not at all, maybe one of my party does"
Astra Xiloscient
"I've never seen this before, I think you'll have to show us Professor."
Professor Geolobobkins
"It's quite simple."
*Professor Geolobobkins moves over to the cart and uncovers the machine, he pulls out a long road.*
"Inside this rod is a magnet like a compass, it is wrapped in a copper coil. By attacking the rod to the machine with its cable and turning it on you will be able to detect magnetic anomalies displayed here on the machine."
*he points to a panel with numbers on it and a wooden arrow*
"The arrow when turned on should point straight up in a normal environment and will move left or right indicating an anomaly. Point the rod in the direction you want to examine if the arrow moves you've found something!"
*He packs the equipment away carefully.*
"It has been calibrated to detect the signature you are looking for, don't want you running off on false leads now do we. Please be careful with it, it's a prototype and very expensive. Any questions?"
Cyrus
*Blank stare in confusion*
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Turn it on, plug in the stick and point it at stuff, if the arrow moves you've found something."
Cyrus
Looks at @Kryptstaal, "Got that buddy?"
Kryptstaal
"Indeed I do..." I scribble down notes.
"And this anomaly we are searching for presumably relates to the polinator?"
Professor Bert Ernstien
"That's correct, the Moonpetal flowers produce a magnetic field as do the Velvet-tailed-moon-moth the two together in order to pollinate. The machine will allow you to locate these fields, similar to a compass pointing north, the arrow will move to the right if it has detected the field of the Velvet-tailed-moon-moth or left it has detected the field of the Moonpetal flowers."
Astra Xiloscient
"Ok arrow pointing left is the flowers and arrow pointing right will be the bugs."
Professor Bert Ernstien
"Do you have any other questions before you depart?"
Kryptstaal
"Very well.. How do we capture them when we find them?"
Professor Geolobobkins
"Hmmmm, since we don't know what the situation is, let's discuss that further once we have a better understanding. I'll give you this message scroll which will allow us to communicate while you're in the field."
+1 Message Scroll Prof Geolobobkins
Kryptstaal
"Very well.... find the moths... then message."
Cyrus
Let us go
As the group set out towards the Hanging Garden across the mountain trails Professor Geolobobkins and Bert Ernstien wave them off on their first assignment.
You hear them as you leave calling out to you, "Don't forget to message us!" and Professor Geolobobkins adds "And take good care of my Machine!!" to which Professor Bert Ernstien adds "And Matilda!!!".
And with that you walk out of sight and hearing range.
The mountain pass is quite narrow and steep as you ascend, the air quickly becomes cool and thin, luckily you find that amongst the camping supplies packed for you there are also some thick cloaks and mountain gear as well as a throw over for Matilda, the chill is not unbearable but the cloaks make traveling more comfortable.
Cyrus
Cyrus covers the donkey and lovingly rubs behind her ears. He awaits the parties direction, but will keep an eye out for any trouble
The group continues along the winding road of the maintains and are starting to consider stopping for lunch when up ahead some 70 feet they see that the road is blocked.
Crates of goods have been stacked on either side of the road and a large wagon is parked between them preventing travel to the other side.
Above the road on either side the group also sees more crates stacked on rocky ledges overlooking the road.
From their current position the group can't see if the barricade is manned but it definitely seems suspicious and like an ambush is waiting for them.
Kryptstaal
"Ambush... But perhaps an obvious one." I halt the caravan and am going to attemit to hide.
Kryptstaal
We need someone with charisma Imao
Astra Xiloscient
"I guess that's me"
*gulps*
@Astra Xiloscient moves up closer to the front of the cart with @Zakery Quack @Cyrus and the @Matilda the donkey.
@Kryptstaal crouches behind the cart but there isn't really anywhere for him to hide on the narrow open road of the mountains.
Kryptstaal
"Hmm...."
I give up the ruse and accompany Astra
Zakery Quack
"What should we do? There is no sign of people yet the cart ahead is blocking our way, and it is clearly intentional."
Kryptstaal
"Perhaps it is a checkpoint rather than an ambush... Nonethe less, stay here and zi shall investigate."
Kryptstaal
I would like to sneak in to have a look around
Kryptstaal
How high up are the walls?
The sides of the mountain on either side of the road are high and steep, the ledges ahead which have crates on them are about 10 feet above the road but the slope leading up to them from the road is more forgiving and accessible on foot but looks gravelly and possibly poses a slipping hazard.
Cyrus
Cyrus goes about halfway between where our wagon is and where their wagon is and says, “Fancy all these crates lined up, I wonder what thr professors saw could do to it and anything else round there” and he pulls out the diamond tooth saw and flexes his muscles naturally
There doesn't seem to be any response to @Cyrus then from up on the ledge you hear someone call out.
Bandit
"This road is under new management, if you want to pass you'll have to pay the toll!"
Cyrus
Glares at the @Bandit, and asks "what that might be?
Bandit
*From his hiding place behind the crates up on the left ledge.*
"Leave the cart and keep walking ahead, but don't stop or it's curtains for you lot."
*There is a pause and mumbling*
"And leave the donkey as well!"
Matilda
*At hearing this @Matilda stamps her hoof.*
"Hee-Haw!"
Kryptstaal
"Very well. But he is tempremental.... perhaps someone had best come down and ease him first...."
Kryptstaal
I walk forward to Matilda
Kryptstaal
"Probably because we keep misgendering him... uhh... her."
Bandit
"Don't get any funny ideas now, wouldn't want to get blood all over your nice looking machine there."
From behind the cart you see three Goblin's trying to hold back a @Giant Hyena on a chain. up above to the left and right you see two more bandits bows drawn.
Cyrus
Chuckles loudly, "Nobody makes me bleed my own blood, funny guy this one! Are you coming to get this donkey princess or not?"
Kryptstaal
"I'm not kidding about her temper. Unless you wish for the donkey to simply, plod off with the cart."
Bandit
"Ok so it's the hard way then is it. Boyz make em hurt.. real bad."
Kryptstaal
"You're an idiot, I see."
Astra Xiloscient
"You crosseyed ninny you couldn't hit a barn door!" (vicious mockery at @2 Scout)
The bandits brow furrows as he loses his nerves to @Astra Xiloscient taunts.
Kryptstaal
I am going to move forward 30 feet and throw my daggers at @3 Goblin and @2 Scout (in that order)
The daggers fly striking the Goblin who drop the chains they were holding keeping the @Giant Hyena from charging. And the @2 Scout
@Scout and @2 Scout fire their arrows at @Cyrus and at @Astra Xiloscient
an arrow strikes @Astra Xiloscient a look of satisfaction on @2 Scouts face. after her insults.
@Matilda looks agitated
Kryptstaal
"Easy, Girl...."
Zakery Quack
*Zakery Quacks usually pleasant smile drops*
*quietly*
"Now you've done it."
*Yelling at the bandits*
"My name is Azeracky Quk! Fear my wrath!!"
*With an intimidating roar he charges at the @Giant Hyena his great axe held high.*
The @Giant Hyena bolts and hides behind the wagon blocking the road, dragging the two goblins holding the chain with it until they let go falling prone on the ground.
Bandit
*The @Bandit yells, stamping his feet and waving his arms around*
"Kyaaa! kill them! kill them!"
@Goblin and @2 Goblin pick themselves up off the ground, draw their daggers and move towards @Zakery Quack.
@3 Goblin draws his dagger and attacks @Zakery Quack
Kryptstaal
"All this because you didn't want to take the horse...."
As the @3 Goblin attacks @Zakery Quack extends his arm and wags his finger in the Goblin's face. (silvery barbs)
but the goblin cares not for Zakerys shenanigans and cuts the dragonborn.
hidden behind the wagon the @Giant Hyena recovers its nerves.
Cyrus
I would like to move 30 feet up and go into a rage and throw a handaxe @Scout
@Cyrus hand axe hits the @Scout causing serious damage.
Cyrus
“Stop hiding and fight me like a real man!”
Astra Xiloscient
"Hang in there Zakery!!"
(healing word)
*fires her light crossbow at @2 Scout *
@Zakery Quack feels bolstered by @Astra Xiloscient s words as his wounds heal.
@Astra Xiloscient s crossbow bolt hits the @2 Scout hard, he is clearly badly injured.
Kryptstaal
I move in to #2 Goblin, drawing my Shortswords
Kryptstaal
Attack and Offhand
@Kryptstaal cuts down the @2 Goblin who cries out as he falls, bleeding on the ground.
@2 Scout fires an arrow at @Kryptstaal while @Scout fires an arrow at @Cyrus
but both miss their targets.
Matilda
"Hee-Haw!!"
@Zakery Quack attacks @Goblin as he does his great axe burns with green fire which spits and sparks the green fire leaping over to @3 Goblin.
(casts Green-Flame Blade + advantage from silvery barbs)
but the attack misses and the green fire flickers away.
Zakery Quack
"Aaaarrrr hold still so I can smash you with my axe!"
@3 Goblin attacks @Zakery Quack and @Goblin attack @Kryptstaal
but they miss as the battle rages on around them.
Bandit
"We got them right where we want them mwahahahaha!!"
The @Giant Hyena has recovered its fierceness once more, and crashing through the wagon sending crates and baskets flying attacks @Cyrus.
The jaws of the @Giant Hyena clamp down hard on @Cyrus spilling his blood all over the ground, but his fiery rage metabolism reduces the majority of the damage.
Cyrus
Cyrus holds the diamond saw high into the air letting the light flicker off the diamonds and slams it down with two hands straight into the hyena neck
@Cyrus swings but just misses the large beast taking a clump of fur and a grazing hit as a memento.
@Astra Xiloscient fires her crossbow at @2 Scout
The bolt strikes the @2 Scout who clutching the wound falls from the ledge landing dead on the road below.
Kryptstaal
I go in to flank @Goblin
moving around behind the @Goblin @Kryptstaal strikes felling the little green creature where it stands.
@Scout fires an arrow at @Kryptstaal
but misses
Matilda
"Hee-Haw"
@Zakery Quack attacks the @Giant Hyena with his great axe, green flames ignite across the axe head. (casts green flame blade)
The great axe strikes the @Giant Hyena hard on the side.
Green fire leaps from the blade hitting the @3 Goblin who bursts into flames falling to the ground a burnt mess.
Zakery Quack
"I am Azeracky Quk hear me roar!!"
Bandit
"Damnit!!"
*The bandit grips his scimitar and heads down towards the battle.*
The @Giant Hyena lashes out at @Cyrus with its gnashing jaws.
but misses the raging barbarian.
Cyrus
Cyrus swings his saw again against the hyena.
The rotating saw spins a clanks cutting deep into the @Giant Hyena which yelps in pain at the incredible power of the blow, the smell of grease and copper filling the air and the spray of blood covering the raging half orc, the @Giant Hyena and the ground.
The @Giant Hyena looks badly injured as it looks in desperation for an opportunity to flee the battle.
@Astra Xiloscient moves up and fires her crossbow at @Scout
The bolt strikes the @Scout hard in the chest, he drops his bow and falls from the ledge to the road below.
Kryptstaal
I flank the doggo
@Kryptstaal comes up from behind on the @Giant Hyena stabbing at it with his blades, caught off guard, the rogue is able to deliver devastating damage to the creature as it gives a final yelp before collapsing on the road dead.
@Matilda has been slowly making her way towards the @Bandit little by little without anyone paying any attention to her, she now finds her self within striking distance of the brute who wanted to donkey-nap her, she rears up and tries to kick him in the back.
@Matilda gives the @Bandit a good solid kick in the back pushing him forward towards @Cyrus .
@Zakery Quack turns around and looks the bandit dead in the eyes, before swinging his great axe at his head.
@Zakery Quacks great axe comes down hard with a 'chock', followed shortly after with the sound of the bandits body hitting the road with a 'plop'.
Kryptstaal
I will start searching the bodies.
Kryptstaal
Particularly looking for a bow, an armour upgrade, any potions or other useful items or money they may have.
But III take anything I can haya
Amongst the bodies of the bandits the group finds two longbows with twenty arrows, one scimitar, and three daggers, their armour is badly damaged after the fight and is only good for scrap.
All around the area are crates, barrels, and baskets of food, alcohol, ores and other trade goods which the bandits had stolen, as well as the wagon which is blocking the road.
@Matilda finds a crate of carrots and happily starts eating while the group decides what to do with all this cargo.
Cyrus
Cyrus snags the alcohol and food
There is way too much to carry for one person, which is probably why they wanted @Matilda, in order to carry there goods out of the mountains.
Cyrus
Loads the food onto Matilda cart but keeps the ale
@Cyrus manages to fit one extra crate of fresh food onto the cart, and although he can't carry a barrel, he finds a bottle of whiskey which he is able to fit in his pack.
+1 Bottle of Alcohol
Kryptstaal
Do I find my daggers? haha
Kryptstaal
We will take anything worth of value and load it up
The group harnesses @Matilda to the blocking wagon and moves it out of the way.
Unfortunately Matilda's cart is already at capacity and you won't be able to take any of the stolen goods with you, but you could grab one or two items if you needed them, as well as any of the weapons the bandits dropped.
Astra Xiloscient
"Perhaps we should send a message to the Professors to let them know what happened, maybe they can send someone to pick all this stolen property up ..... and get rid of the bodies."
*gulps*
Kryptstaal
Is this new cart bigger but still drawable? haha
Kryptstaal
If not, we'll load the weapons etc.
As it is not possible to move the Professors machine the group loads the looted weapons onto their cart a hook @Matilda back up to it ready to continue.
The cart now contains:
Professor Geolobobkins Magnetometer.
Two longbows with twenty arrows.
One scimitar.
Three daggers.
Three crates of provisions.
Camping equipment including four small tents.
Climbing Equipment.
Geological tools.
Astra Xiloscient
"You should still probably let the Professors know, twenty-five words or less on the message scroll right?"
Kryptstaal
"I am unsure that it is wise to waste it on this. We may require to reach out to him later... What do you think?
Astra Xiloscient
"My understanding is that it isn't a one use item but something you can use to communicate when needed."
Kryptstaal
"I see.. Very well."
Kryptstaal
I cast (sending?) message.
"Professors. We were ambushed. All are fine. Bandits dead. There's an abundance stolen property. And corpses. Send collection crew. We continue on."
@Kryptstaal writes his message on the scroll, a few short moments later words appear on the page below, they read.
From Professor Geolobobkins.
"Is the Magnetometer ok?"
Kryptstaal
"Yes. As is Matilda."
more writing appears
From Professor Geolobobkins
Great sending authorities, take good care of Magnetometer.
Kryptstaal
"All done."
Astra Xiloscient
"Ok I feel better knowing that someone is going to take care of this mess ........ although Professor Geolobobkins only seemed to care about his machine."
Zakery Quack
"It's a very nice machine....."
Matilda
"Hee-Haw"
Cyrus
"Hopefully we find more challengers ahead!"
The group continues on their way through the mountains not wanting to rest at the scene of the fight with the bandits before stopping for a late lunch.
The rest of the journey is uneventful until it is much later in the day and they need to stop and set up camp for the night.
Cyrus
Cyrus looks around for things of note around the campsite
The group finds an area on the narrow road to pull over the cart and set up camp. The chosen location is quite spacious and provides good cover from the cold winds. There are a few conifer trees, and the area looks as if it is used regularly by travelers as there was already a well established fire pit at the location, the fire pit is cold now but you can tell it was used in the last day or two.
The group is able to secure the wagon, pitch the four small tents, and collect enough firewood for the evening well before it gets dark and start preparing their meal for dinner.
Cyrus
I give @Matilda some donkey treats
The night continues and the group decides it's probably best to take shift posting a lookout to watch over the camp while the others rest, and you decide to draw straws to see in what order you will stand watch.
The night gets late and the group turns in for the night, @Zakery Quack takes first watch while the others get some much needed rest.
The first watch goes smoothly, although whether @Zakery Quack would have noticed something wrong is questionable as he spent most of the time feeding @Matilda carrots, and drawing pictures in the dirt with a stick.
When the time comes @Zakery Quack wakes @Cyrus for his shift then goes to his tent to sleep.
@Cyrus falls asleep while on his watch, and is awoken by @Kryptstaal, when it is his turn, luckily nothing wandered into the camp or they would likely all be dead right now.
@Astra Xiloscient relieves @Kryptstaal as she takes her turn on watch duty.
The night passes without incident and the group continues their journey towards the Hanging Garden, which they expect to reach before nightfall.
Zakery Quack
"I slept like a log, thank you for keeping me safe in my sleep."
Cyrus
"You are welcome!" He says laughing
The group make their way along the mountain road reaching a sign by midday at a crossroad.
The sign points in four directions; West to The Void Crater and The City of VOC East to The City of Fundo South to The City of Entree Dieu De La Mer
And a sign pointing North to The Hanging Garden The road to the Hanging Garden seems a lot less traveled, and is probably only used by caretakers, and enthusiasts.
"Fascinating. A crossroads in a very literal sense.... Hmm?"
I look off distracted.
"Why would I care about rats, cats, and demons? That is not....." and then I realise I was talking aloud.
"Right then. To the hanging gardens..."
Kryptstaal
"Unless we would rather the road more travelled, and safer.. we could head south to the Botanical Grove..."
Kryptstaal
"What say you all?"
Astra Xiloscient
"We've come this far and we are a lot closer now to the Hanging Gardens, so best see it through."
Kryptstaal
"Agreed."
Kryptstaal
I press forward
The group heads along the winding path heading north towards the Hanging Garden.
Arriving at dusk they are amazed at the beauty of the Hanging Garden.
The Hanging Garden occupies a large open space nestled in the rocky cliffs.
The cliffs lean forward over the Garden creating natural cover and overhang.
Stalactites hang down and stalagmites can be seen reaching up around the garden.
Water drips down from the stalactites providing life giving moisture to the garden.
There is a wide variety of plants, ferns, and trees, around the garden, vines creep up the sides up the cliff face and hang down in places around the garden and creating a living curtain.
The group notices the creeping vines of the Moonpetal flowers which appear here and there climbing up tree trunks, or stalagmites.
Just outside the garden there is an abandoned rangers log cabin, its roop is green and mossy, and vines grow over the side of the building.
"Magnificent...."
"What do you mean, have you been here before? I thought not...." I say to nobody in particular.
Kryptstaal
*Clears throat*
"I am interested in checking the cabin. Then perhaps we should engage the device."
Kryptstaal
I send a message to the professors.
"Just arrived at Hanging Grove. Beautiful. One could stay here forever and not miss the world..."
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack starts unloading the cart into the cabin.*
"This is very nice I hope we can locate the fuzzy bugs here."
Astra Xiloscient
*@Astra Xiloscient unhooks @Matilda and ties her to a post near the cabin.*
"It is lovely, I can just imagine it with all the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths flittering about."
Astra Xiloscient
"speaking of which, will we try out the Professors machine tonight or wait until tomorrow to get started?"
Cyrus
"We are well rested and I am itching for adventure so let's fire the machine up"
The group finishes unloading the cart, and has an early supper, all the while @Cyrus is on edge eager to fire off the machine. Finally the group gathers outside by the cart, and @Astra Xiloscient and @Kryptstaal set up the machine and switch it on.
Zakery Quack
"This is quite exciting."
@Cyrus takes hold of the rod and starts to move it slowly this way and that checking for a signal. As the rod points towards the Moonpetal flowers the machine blips and the arrow dips slightly to the left.
Astra Xiloscient
"Well looks like it's working!"
Zakery Quack
"you sound surprised?"
Astra Xiloscient
"well you never know do you."
*chuckles*
Cyrus
"Ah hahaha it's working" Cyrus does not remember what to look for
@Cyrus continues to scan around the area with the rod. Suddenly the arrow drops rapidly and the machine beeps. Seems there is a signal exactly the same as the Moonpetal flowers, yet of magnitudes stronger coming from the mountains to the north.
Kryptstaal
"We appear to have found the moths. Or... a large magnet."
Kryptstaal
I message the professors
"Strong signal from the northern mountains."
Astra Xiloscient
"Should we follow the signal now or wait till morning?"
*Message*
From Professor Geolobobkins
"Great news, is the arrow pointing left or right?"
Kryptstaal
"Left, same as the flowers. No moths yet." I reply via the scroll
*Message*
From Professor Geolobobkins
"Interesting. Keep us updated on your progress."
Cyrus
"Onward to the mountain!"
Kryptstaal
"Why? We want the opposite polarity..."
Astra Xiloscient
"But we couldn't find it. And such a strong signal in the frequency we are looking for is strange don't you think?"
Zakery Quack
"I am ready for some action although I can't see very well in the dark....."
Cyrus
Cyrus sits there looking confused
Astra Xiloscient
"What's up @Cyrus you change your mind?"
Cyrus
"My mind hurts from all the thinking"
Zakery Quack
"No more thinking..... time for action! This is the first sign we've had that leads us towards our goal, so pick yourself up and let's go!............ you first though cause my eyes aren't good in the dark.... I might trip over."
Kryptstaal
"Very well. To the mountains."
Zakery Quack
*@Zakery Quack lights a torch.*
The group heads North into the mountains in the direction Professor Geolobobkins machine indicated the anomaly was located.
It doesn't take long before the group sees light ahead from a nearby gully in the mountains, the amount of light suggests an encampment of some kind.
@Zakery Quack snuffs out his torch in order to approach unseen with his companions.
Kryptstaal
I would actually like to summon my friend from his Demiplane
Kryptstaal
Named "Ghoulia"
A small slightly dead owl pops into existence perched on Kryptstaals shoulder.
The group move up as quietly as they can to get a better look.
Looking down into the gully they see a large encampment below.
There are many tents, with fire pits around the camp as well as torches placed around the perimeter adding to the light around the camp.
The group sees at least six bandits eating and talking around the fires as well as five goblins. There is also a large cage with two Giant Hyenas inside chewing on bones.
Slightly to the right away from the noise and light there is a large machine. it looks like a large metal object wrapped in lengths of copper coils. and attached to a waterwheel by the gully's river.
The waterwheel is connected to a large crystal by thick cables which then attaches to the machine.
A little away from the machine is a large net structure which seems to be a cage.
Outside the cage six goblins busy themselves with nets catching velvet-tailed-moon-moths drawn to the machine, and putting them in the large net cage.
Cyrus
I would like to continue my stealth down to one of the tents on the right to get the jump on the gobs when my compatriots make the first move
Kryptstaal
“It seems we have discovered the source..”
Kryptstaal
I snap my fingers and a skeletal owl manifests through a strange sickly purple rip in space. The owl, Ghoulia lands directly on my head.
“Time to scout, my little friend....”
Kryptstaal
I would like to send Ghoulia to fly over head and look for any ways to disable the machine.
Looking at the machine you can see that it is powered by the waterwheel, stopping the waterwheel or detaching the cables which connect it to the crystal or the machine will stop the machine from running.
Kryptstaal
What is the source of the gully?
The gully runs through the mountains, the river is fed by runoff from the mountains.
Kryptstaal
“Blocking the stream is not going to be easy. Not too mention the ecological implications. No. We need to get down there and manage the situation ourselves....”
@Zakery Quack follows @Cyrus down to the right hidden behind the tent ready to strike.
@Astra Xiloscient slips going down the side but manages to do it quietly.
The group all gather down to the right of the camp hidden behind a tent.
Kryptstaal
Can the goblins across the river see the goblins around the camp?
The camp is open and lit by the fire pits.
Visibility is good for line of sight.
There are deep shadows however, and the machine and waterwheel are quite noisy.
Kryptstaal
Is there anything inside of the tent?
I’m gonna lightly part the door and look in hidden.
the tent the group is hiding behind is empty except for an old fur and some tools.
Astra Xiloscient
“Perhaps if we are quick we can take out these three Goblin’s before they alert the others?”
Cyrus
“Let us strike as one, I will smash the closest if you guys can take the other two!”
Astra Xiloscient
“But quietly...yes.”
Cyrus
Cyrus strikes first goblin with his greataxe …. Quietly.
@Astra Xiloscient fires her light crossbow
@Zakery Quack quickly moves up to strike @4 Goblin , he casts green flame blade as he swings his great axe.
green fire splashes onto @13 Goblin
Kryptstaal
I sneak behind the gobbo hit by the arrow and strike at him with my Shortsword, I will dagger the other gobo.
@Cyrus moves out attacking @13 Goblin but misses grazing the goblin with his great axe.
@Zakery Quack rushes in felling @4 Goblin green fire leaping from his great axe and burning @13 Goblin .
@Astra Xiloscient shoots a bolt into @12 Goblin who gurgles as it strikes his neck.
@Kryptstaal moves up striking down @12 Goblin with his short sword, then silencing @13 Goblin with a thrown dagger.
The bodies are dragged into the tent and the group wait to see if they were discovered.
As the group waits it seems their surprise attack was a success, the others in the camp don’t seem to have noticed their presence.
Cyrus
Cyrus sits in tent awaiting @Kryptstaal signal to rage
Astra Xiloscient
“How do we want to do this? We are still outnumbered and those @Giant Hyena are a worry.”
Kryptstaal
“I suggest we wait. Pick off stragglers, and wait until they fall asleep. And avoid the Hyenas... Thoughts?”
Cyrus
Sounds good
The group waits some time and the night gets late, some of the bandits go to their tents, others just stay by the fire.
Eventually you see the first glint of dawn, a red line across the far horizon. It seems all the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths have been caught for the evening and the machine is turned off, The Goblins who were working there cross the river and gather by the fire to eat. Looking around it seems most of the bandits are asleep, as are the @Giant Hyena, but a large number of the Goblins are still awake as they finish up for the night.
Kryptstaal
Hurry up and go to bed already.
Okay so the moths were captured. Where are they being stored?
All the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths are stored in the large cage net by the machine.
Kryptstaal
Now is probably a good chance to sabotage the machine and free the moths. But I high-key wanna kill the culprits too cause otherwise it’s a half measure
Astra Xiloscient
“So bloodthirsty.....”
Zakery Quack
“Should we contact the professor to let him know what’s happening?”
Kryptstaal
“Good idea.”
I will write him a message.
“Moths trapped by a machine powered by water. Caged. Many goblins and bandits. responsible. Most currently asleep. Goblins awake. Some dead.”
Astra Xiloscient
“probably should have done that before murdering those three goblins.”
Kryptstaal
“Perhaps.”
As the sun rises the group is quickly running out of places to hide.
Eventually they receive a reply.
*message*
From Professor Geolobobkins
“Help on route arriving by nightfall.”
Kryptstaal
“There is help on the way. But by the time they arrive, the bodies will be found. Cyrus. Toss me.”
If allowed, I would like to make a run-up with a Cyrus assisted leap. Fully cheerleader style.
@Cyrus and @Zakery Quack grab @Kryptstaal and with a little bit of a run up toss the half elf silently over the river towards the net cage.
@Kryptstaal pirouettes, and lands silently on the other side.
Cyrus
Cyrus will sneak up to the tree by the goblins in case @Kryptstaal is spotted he can jump into action
The cage is covered in a large net to keep the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths inside, but there is no door or lock, just more netting.
Kryptstaal
Knife time
Cyrus
I move to the tent to my left and try to hide
Kryptstaal
Does the crystal seem to be involved in powering?
The crystal seems to be involved in calibrating the power of the machine to attract the moths.
Kryptstaal
May have to sabotage afterwards since the party has been spotted haha.
I am going to take my knife to the net to cut it open and free the moths
@Kryptstaal slashes open the entrance to the net cage and removes the netting allowing all the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths to escape into the shadows of the sounding mountains in the growing morning light.
The goblins alerted by the sounds of movement, head towards the group to investigate.
@Zakery Quack tries to hide once more behind the large tree.
but the dragonborn just ends up making more noise as he tries to squish himself into a hiding spot.
@Astra Xiloscient continues to remain hidden.
looking at the machine Kryptstaal sees it is not particularly complicated, with almost no moving parts.
The easiest way to disable it would be to destroy the waterwheel or cut the power cables running from the waterwheel to the crystal, and crystal to the machine.
Cyrus
Im going to hold my turn and wait for the goblins to get closer to zak to get jump on them
The Goblins move closer to where the group are hidden, they fail to notice @Kryptstaal on the other side of the river and keep moving towards where @Zakery Quack has given up trying to hide and awaits the Goblins arrival.
Upon seeing @Zakery Quack the Goblins call out sounding the alarm and alerting the rest of the camp, they then dash towards the waiting dragonborn.
@Zakery Quack swings his great axe this way and that at the oncoming Goblins.
As @Zakery Quack swings cleaving the @7 Goblin in half, green fire crackles and leaps over to @10 Goblin burning the Goblin badly.
@Astra Xiloscient fires an arrow at @10 Goblin.
but misses.
Cyrus rages firing up his diamond saw and goes to slice the goblin 13
@Cyrus swings but misses with the rotating saw.
@Cyrus then cuts the @11 Goblin in half sending bits of Goblin flying through the air.
@10 Goblin and @6 Goblin attack @Zakery Quack
@6 Goblin cuts @Zakery Quack with its blade.
@14 Goblin, @8 Goblin, and @9 Goblin attack @Cyrus
@14 Goblin and @8 Goblin slash at @Cyrus causing serious damage to the barbarian, but his rage reduces the worst of the injury.
@Zakery Quack swings his greataxe at @6 Goblin green fire leaping into the air.
but the dragonborn misses his mark.
Astra Xiloscient
“hang in there Zakery!!”
(healing word)
“Get out of here you little goober!!”
(vicious mockery @10 Goblin )
@10 Goblin feels the harshness of @Astra Xiloscient words. dropping dead on the spot.
The bandits hearing the commotion jump into the action moving towards the group except for one who heads to the cage to release the Giant Hyenas.
@Cyrus lashes out with his rotating saw cleaving through @8 Goblin spraying the Goblin across his allies.
The scout is going to open the cage this turn unless he is stopped.
Seeing the bandit going to open the cage Kryptstaal readies his bow moving to intercept.
@Kryptstaal is able to stop the bandit before he is able to open the cage to the Giant Hyenas with a well aimed arrow.
Cyrus
Now will he be able to save us with his bird
Kryptstaal
I guess Ill use ny BA to have @Ghoulia to fly through and try to distract the goblins? lmao
@Ghoulia flies over the Goblins but they seem too preoccupied with @Cyrus to care.
Cyrus
“Useless bird!”
@6 Goblin attacks @Zakery Quack
but misses
@14 Goblin @5 Goblin and @9 Goblin attack @Cyrus
@Zakery Quack casts silvery barbs on @5 Goblin
who is distracted by the dragonborn and misses his attack against @Cyrus
@14 Goblin lands a lucky hit but the raging barbarian barely feels the hit.
@Zakery Quack maneuvers around the back of the Goblins attacking @5 Goblin from behind, green fire leaping into the air.
The large dragonborn cuts down @5 Goblin green fire leaping over to @6 Goblin burning the Goblin.
@Astra Xiloscient fires her crossbow at @6 Goblin with a little help from @Zakery Quacks silvery barbs.
the bolt strikes the @6 Goblin dropping it to the ground dead.
@2 Bandit makes it into the combat striking at @Cyrus
nicking the raging barbarian.
Cyrus
“It’s just a flesh wound you scum!”
Slice @2 Bandit
Cyrus laughs manically unsure of whose blood is more all over him: his or his foes
Kryptstaal
Ghoulia help action vs. @2 Thug as I attack with my bow
@Cyrus cuts @2 Bandit in half the bodies piling up around the raging barbarian.
@Kryptstaal arrow strikes the @2 Thug hitting him in the back and drawing his attention.
@14 Goblin and @9 Goblin attack @Cyrus with their short swords.
but the two Goblins are starting to panic in the midst of the incredible carnage around the half orc barbarian and miss.
@Zakery Quack runs up and strikes @14 Goblin with his greataxe green fire leaping from the blade.
but he misses.
@Astra Xiloscient calls out.
“Stay in the fight @Cyrus !?”
(healing word)
@Cyrus feels much better from the healing words of the bard.
@2 Thug turns to chase down @Kryptstaal for shooting him in the back. leaving @3 Bandit to fight the barbarian alone.
@3 Bandit slashes at @Cyrus with his scimitar.
@3 Scout and @4 Scout fire arrows at @Kryptstaal from across the river.
but they miss their mark.
with the help of @Ghoulia, @Kryptstaal unleashes a devastating combo with his short and scimitar. The @2 Thug unable to defend himself against the onslaught is quickly overpowered and left dead by the banks of the river.
Cyrus continues his rage lashing out @14 Goblin
The @14 Goblin is cut in half by the rotating saw adding to the bloody pile of bodies the raging barbarian now stands on top of.
with no where to run to @9 Goblin attacks @Cyrus with his short sword.
but misses.
@Zakery Quack moves up swinging his greataxe at the @3 Bandit
The @3 Bandit is cut down as green fire leaps from the blade, hitting @9 Goblin and badly burning it.
@Astra Xiloscient fires her crossbow at @9 Goblin
The bolt hits the burned and badly injured Goblin, its body slumping to the ground.
The @4 Scout seeing the carnage by the tents at the hands of @Cyrus and @Zakery Quack as well as seeing the Thug laying dead in the river, turns and runs.
@3 Scout however runs to the Giant Hyenas cage in hopes of evening the odds.
Cyrus
I will move toward the cages in a dash since I can’t reach them
Kryptstaal
I’m going to get @3 Scout in my sights and shoot with my bow. Help action from Ghoulia!
The arrow strikes the @3 Scout hard in the back, he falls to the ground but is still crawling towards the cage.
@Zakery Quack charges up with @Cyrus
followed close behind by @Astra Xiloscient
@3 Scout reaches the cage and opens the door releasing the Giant Hyenas.
@4 Scout continues to run away.
Disappearing out of sight.
Cyrus
Dash toward Scout
@Zakery Quack follows but stops half way, opening his mouth he unleashes a fearsome roar followed by a stream of acid directed at @3 Scout .
The @3 Scout cries out as he is melted away.
The acid passes over the @3 Scout spraying into the cage and onto the Giant Hyenas as they try to leave.
Astra Xiloscient
“Maybe we can push those Giant Hyenas back in the cage! Come on @Cyrus you can do it!”
(Healing word)
@Astra Xiloscient words of encouragement heal the injured barbarians wounds.
Kryptstaal
I’ll use Ghoulia again to help as I fire at @2 Giant Hyena
The @2 Giant Hyena yelps as it is struck by @Kryptstaal s arrow.
@2 Giant Hyena attacks @Cyrus as it tries to break free of the cage and escape.
The @2 Giant Hyena bites down hard on @Cyrus causing the barbarian serious injury now that his rage has worn off.
Kryptstaal
Oh dear “Be angry!”
Help, Bow vs @2 Giant Hyena
But misses
Cyrus looks at the hyenas, a moment of sorrow in his eyes. Then his eyes flicker red again before a rage takes over. And he swings desperately at @2 Giant Hyena, but misses.
@Zakery Quack runs up and tries to push the @2 Giant Hyena back into the cage.
but the @2 Giant Hyena is too strong for the dragonborn.
@Astra Xiloscient casts ‘Hideous Laughter’ on @2 Giant Hyena
The Giant Hyena falls to the ground prone and incapacitated, unable to stop laughing.
@3 Giant Hyena is stuck in the cage and can’t get past the other Hyena as it laughs uncontrollably.
The @2 Giant Hyena yelps as another arrow hits it shot by Kryptstaal, @Cyrus tries to push the Hyena while its distracted from the attack but the Hyena refuses to budge.
The pain from the arrow wakes the @2 Giant Hyena from its laughing fit breaking @Astra Xiloscient spell.
@Zakery Quack attempts to push the Hyena back into the cage.
@Zakery Quack is able to push the @2 Giant Hyena back.
@Astra Xiloscient casts ‘Mage hand’ using it to close the gate to the cage locking the Hyena away inside.
The Giant Hyenas make a weak effort to attempt to break free of the cage, but realize the battle is lost and soon reserve themselves to lay in their cage chewing their bones.
With the battle over @Zakery Quack busies himself piling up the bodies and preparing for the guards and the Professors arrival in the evening.
Cyrus
Huzzah
Kryptstaal
I suppose Ill not break the machine yet and come meet Cyrus.
“Are you alright? Took quite the beating...”
The day progressed and once the group had cleaned up the area, they take the time to eat, rest, and heal.
Eventually as night approaches the group sees torch light on the ridge as a large patrol of guards from Fundo accompanied by the Professors rides down into the gully on horseback.
Professor Geolobobkins
“Oh wow look at that machine!”
*@Professor Geolobobkins waves to the group as he quickly rides across the river, dismounts, and starts looking over the machine.”
Professor Bert Ernstien
*@Professor Bert Ernstien waves at the group as he rides past towards the Giant Hyenas in the cage.*
“Oh my goodness you poor things..... I’ll take you in .... after the mistreatment you’ve been subjected to you’ll need special care and rehabilitation.”
The guards disperse collecting weapons, ammunition and deconstructing the tents in the camp, as well as identifying the bodies of the bandits.
The Captain of the guards rides up to you.
Guard Captain
“What in the nine hells happened here? We are going to need statements and a detailed recount of what happened.”
Kryptstaal
“Goblins and raiders.... stealing the moths for some reason... Beat up @Cyrus here some. We got lucky and were able to overpower them.”
*The Guard Captain looks over at the pile of bodies some so badly chopped up the guards are having a hard time matching pieces together to get a positive identification.*
Guard Captain
“Got lucky? I don’t think ...... fine whatever... is this all of them?”
Kryptstaal
“Unless you include the bandits who had been staking the highway a ways back... I believe so...” I look away distracted.
“Never mind that, I am speaking to him now!” I snap to nobody in particular.
Astra Xiloscient
“Actually Captain I think one got away.... he ran off near the end of the fight heading down the river.”
Guard Captain
“These bandits are well funded, I’ve never seen such an elaborate machine being used by their type before, nor such a strange theft, I get the highway robbery, but why trap all those bugs.”
Kryptstaal
’Bizzare, is it not?”
Cyrus
“This is not my blood, it is my enemies!” Cyrus says as he wobbles in exhaustion
The Professors return to join in the conversation.
Professor Bert Ernstien
“These ‘bugs’ are quite rare and valuable on their own, but they are also one of the only known pollinators of the Moonpetal flowers, which are a valuable source of ingredients for potions and other magical regents, controlling its supply would be extremely profitable.”
Professor Geolobobkins
“Captain, could you have this machine sent to The Natural Museum, I want to take it back and study it further, possibly find out where it was constructed.”
Guard Captain
“Certainly Professors. If there are any clues to who was behind this here, we’ll find them.”
Professor Bert Ernstien
“You four have done a great job uncovering the missing velvet-tailed-moon-moth, I’m sure you could do with a rest..... why don’t you stay in the Hanging Garden cabin a night or two before heading back to report to Professor Entomolojenkins at The Natural Museum, you have plenty of provisions.”
Professor Geolobobkins
“Good idea..... if we find anything else we’ll pass it on for your final report.”
Kryptstaal
“Thank you, professors.... Captain...” I nod
The group return to the cabin in the Hanging Gardens leaving the Professors and Guards to complete their investigation of the area and the clean up.
Later the following day the rest of the platoon arrived with carts for hauling the equipment and bodies back to Entree Dieu De La Mer.
By the end of the second day the group received further information from the Professors, it seems the bandit scout which got away was located further down the river, however upon investigating it turns out he was already dead, and was found sitting at a iron garden table in the middle of nowhere, tea and cake was present and was found to contain poison, and the most likely cause of death of the bandit.
Among the belongings found at the site was a message scroll presumably between the bandits and their employer, which prior to its explosive destruction the initials A.O. were read and seemed to be some kind of correspondence regarding the transport of the captured Velvet-tailed-moon-moths. Unfortunately the message self-destructed killing the guard and injuring another who had found it before more information could be gathered.
Professor Geolobobkins will be heading up the investigation into the location the large crystal was mined from, as well as sourcing the sellers of the other parts of the machine.
Professor Bert Ernstien will be investigating the trafficking of the Giant Hyenas and where they were taken from as well as rehabilitation and reintroduction back into the wild.
Professor Entomolojenkins advised that it seems the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths have returned to their normal environment and routine and confirmed by Professor Botanylania who spent the evening at the Botanical Grove with Professor Entomolojenkins observing the moths to ensure no harm or injuries were sustained during their capture.
Finally the group was advised they are welcome to stay one more night but then they really must head back to The Natural Museum with Matilda for a debriefing with Professor Entomolojenkins and receive their next assignment.
The group spend their last night at the Hanging Gardens relaxing and resting after completing their first case, the next morning they load the cart and clean the cabin before being met by a Guard Squad which had stayed back as an escort.
The group then spend the next six days on the road returning to Entree Dieu De La Mer.
It is quite late when they finally return to The Natural Museum and after unpacking the cart and stabling Matilda, the party heads to bed.
The next morning after breakfast they make their way through the museum and down the corridors of the faculty area to see Professor Entomolojenkins and arrive outside her door where they can hear the sound of the noisy rock tumbler accompanied by the string instrument music the Professor seems to enjoy.
Kryptstaal
*Knock knock*
Professor Entomolojenkins
*The rock tumbler stops, followed by the music as the group hears the sound of someone quickly cleaning and tidying the office.*
“Come in!”
Entering the office the group finds @Professor Entomolojenkins sitting at her desk, looking over charts, maps, and documents.
“Welcome back you four I’ve heard so many things about your first case, but please I want to hear it from you, tell me all about it.”
Kryptstaal
“Well of course, professor”
*Does that in 500 words or less*
Astra Xiloscient
“As you can see Professor it’s been an interesting two weeks.”
Professor Entomolojenkins
“That is quite the story, I wonder who A.O. is, and what their goal is? I’m sure Professor Geolobobkins was extremely excited about the new machine you found though.”
*Giggles*
Zakery Quack
“Yes The Professor is having it delivered here..... it has a nice big shiny crystal.”
Professor Entomolojenkins
“Well it’s good to have you back, although I believe @Cyrus and @Astra Xiloscient are moving on to other areas outside the Museum, which is a shame since you all did such a great job locating and returning the Velvet-tailed-moon-moths but the other Professors and myself thank you and wish you both the best of luck.......... but you do have to ‘CLEAN’ and return Professor Geolobobkins Diamond tipped rotating saw @Cyrus....... sorry. But again we thank you for all your help.”
Kryptstaal
“That is... a shame. But it was a pleasure to work with you two...”
Astra Xiloscient
“Yes I’ll miss well I’m sure there’s something but I just can’t think of it at the moment, perhaps we’ll meet again some day, you never know.”
Astra Xiloscient
“Thank you for the opportunity Professor, and the reference.”
*Heads out of the office.*
Cyrus
@Professor Entomolojenkins I think you are mistaken, I am not going anywhere with my best friend @Kryptstaal. And he gives him a heavy handed but friendly slug. This saw has more adventures to see yet but I shall return it as soon as I clean it
Cyrus
“aka never”
Kryptstaal
“..Best friend?”
For the first time you will have seen, a faint delicate roseyness flushes on Kryptstaal’s pale cheeks. “...” *Shy mode*
