Botkinburg 9pm
The Halfling Community
Friday, May 11, 30awd (After Winter Dark)
It had been an interesting 4 days for the 8 Crimson Crusaders as they gathered together in The Halfling Community to share information, to disclose what extra items they were given and distribute any items to their Clan mates that would be helpful for the overall good of the Crimson Crusaders Clan.

Brenys and Shayleigh had chosen to avail themselves to the hospitality of a room at The Bent Hook aka House of Sludge and to have their gold and future treasures stored at The Keep under the watchful eye of the Lady Marchessa Fabressa and her consort Gideon.

Drogo, BluddGrinn, Karvilo, Trossach, Tohmaz and Rhiannon had chosen the hospitality of the halflings in The Halfling Community to camp out under a large awning pitched near a large spring fed pond where they could go swimming or fishing if they choose to do so.

The Halfling Community is approximately 500 yards long and 500 yards wide, with burrows built into the opposite side of Bafler Hill or built underground. A Halfling Thorn Hedge seems to blend into the countryside, but when approached up close one discovers the thorn hedge is at least 10 feet thick and 10 feet high.

The thorns on all of the vines are extremely sharp and resistant to damage. Just touching the hedge can tear clothes or pull at armor so that one falls deeper into the hedge. Any patch of the hedge does 3d4 points of damage to one trying to chop their way through or pull their way out.

Unknown to those not familiar with the hedges is the fact that the lowest foot and a half of the hedge vines have no thorns. It is easy for halflings to move their way through such hedges.

The oldest of halfling towns have several layers of these hedges surrounding the town with only one opening in the hedges down the main road. The Halfling Community has found a way to construct a swinging gate that completely encloses the entrance if the inhabitants are threatened by an attack.

This particular Friday evening the gate is open and the 8 Crimson Crusaders are treated to a small feast of fruits and assorted beverages as they relate to each other what they have discovered the past 4 days:

The following is a brief synopsis for each PC Character from which information and magic items are provided for the good use of The Crimson Crusaders Clan members:

Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords When they left The Swilling Swan that previous Monday evening, Wymon Whitefoot led the way and showed Drogo how to traverse The Thorn Hedge without hurting himself or damaging his equipment.

After opening the gate for the others to enter The Halfling Community, the inhabitants gathered to greet the 6 Crimson Crusaders and to get a close look at The Halfling of Legend and his unlikely companions.

Many breed Halfling Canines the size of ponies and they come in all colors, breeding them mainly for size and look. These creatures are wonderful with halfling children, but are fierce protectors of halfling lands. Their fur is very thick and rough allowing them to only take half damage from edged weapons.

Halfling Canines are totally immune to fire spells. Their fur carry a heavy load of moisture making them take half damage from normal fires. These Halfling Canines sniff the 5 Crimson Crusaders who accompany Drogo Tulk and are satisfied that his companions mean the halflings no harm!

Drogo spent most of his time under the awning to study his Manual of Bodily Health, usually between the hours of 6am and 2pm before allowing himself the luxury of meeting the various halflings who sought to speak with him.

He would spend time down by the pond dancing with his twin short swords in worship to his deity Preston Tallfellow. Many halflings were gathered to watch and afterwards he would talk with them about the various rumors of evil lurking in The Barren Wood and across The Hruesen River in and around The Black Tooth Ridge.

The young Halfling Fighter receives a Rusty Tan Bag of Tricks from one of the emissaries of The Halfling Community. This small sack appears to be normal and empty of contents. However, anyone reaching into the bag feels a small fuzzy ball at the bottom.

If the ball is removed and tossed up to 20 feet away, it turns into an animal that serves the character that drew it from the bag for 10 minutes (or until slain or ordered back into the bag) at which point it disappears.

Any animals produced are always random and only 1 may exist at a time. Up to 10 animals can be drawn from the bag each week.

This particular Rusty Tan Bag of Tricks will produce either a Brown Grizzly Bear, a Wolf, a Boar or a Tiger. (Drogo keeps this bag for himself to use since it was a gift from a halfling emmisary!)
Drogo was able to visit with the Hafners long enough to learn that they knew much about the halfling lore from those who would come to their home for healing and herbs. They were convinced that according to the Legends they had heard that Drogo and his friends were the ones foretold in the various prophecies of halfling legends.

Most importantly, the Hafners recognized that Drogo and his Crimson Crusaders companions were the only ones up until this point in time who could possibly survive the rigors of The Black Tooth Ridge.

As a result of Drogo promising that he and his companions would risk their very lives to protect the inhabitants of Botkinburg, the Hafners gave him the following potions to help him and his companions to return to Botkinburg victorious and treasure laden:

8 Potions of Cure Serious Wounds and 2 Potions of Cure Critical Wounds. Each Potion Flask may be used twice.

Drogo keeps 1 Cure Serious Wounds for himself and gives 1 to each of his 7 comrades and he keeps 1 Cure Critical Wounds for himself and gives the other to Rhiannon the Monk.
BluddGrinn the Grim BluddGrinn also studies his Tome of Leadership and Influence each day between 6am and 2pm in the company of Drogo either under the awning or down by the pond.

When the War Cleric meets with Tirten Shodfoot the Butcher, he is treated rather poorly since the Butcher was falsely accused by his clan in the Aneer'rafe Hills for theft, but quickly warms up to the War Cleric when BluddGrinn mentions his mentor The Tinker and their personal war against Orcs and other minions of The Horned One under the Aratock Mountains.

Tirten agrees to drive the Weapons Wagon and produces a Staff of Power that The Tinker told Tirten to conceal for safe keeping until his apprentice would one day find his way to Botkinburg.

The Staff of Power is a very potent magic item, with offensive and defensive abilities. It is topped with a glistening Ruby gem, its shaft straight and smooth. This Staff has 50 Charges with the following Powers and Charges:
Magic Missle (1 Charge)
Ray of Enfeeblement (1 Charge)
Continual Flame (1 Charge)
Levitate (1 Charge)
Lightning Bolt (1 Charge)
Fireball (1 Charge)
Cone of Cold (2 Charges)
Hold Monster (2 Charges)
Wall of Force (in a 10 foot diameter hemisphere around the caster only) (2 Charges)
Globe of Invulnerability (2 Charges)

The wielder of The Staff of Power gains a +2 to bonus to armor class and all saving throws. The staff is also a +2 Quarterstaff and its wielder may use it to smite opponents in melee combat. If 1 charge is expended during a melee attack (as a free action), the staff causes double damage for 1 round.

After all charges are used up from the staff, it remains a +2 Quarterstaff. BluddGrinn keeps this staff for himself as it is a gift from The Tinker for such a time as this!
BluddGrinn carries this Staff of Power with him to The Keep and has a good conversation with the wizard Aldadius Mastinfelderin, mainly because he is carrying the Staff of Power and also swaps Orc War Stories with Uncle Frekin.

But he spends most of his spare time at The Butcher Shoppe getting to know Tirten and his information about the evils lurking outside Botkinburg, while eating choice meat and drinking ale with this old friend of his mentor The Tinker.

Karvilo the Unseen When the Elf Ranger enters The Halfling Community he is swarmed by halflings who are shouting that Karvilo is the one who rescued some halflings who were under attack by a band of Road Gnomes!

One of the cousins of the family that Karvilo rescued gives him a magic item that he had found in the ruins of an ancient healing temple, while on his way to Botkinburg to aid The Halfling Community from the threat of the unknown evil lurking beyond the borders of The Realm of New Aenochia.

Wand of Heal is a thin baton that contains a Level 6 Cleric Spell that wipes away disease and injury. It completely cures all point damage, all diseases, blindness, deafness and all temporary ability damage,.

It neutralizes poisons in the subject's system, so that no additional damage or effects are suffered. It nullifies a feeblemind spell. It cures mental disorders caused by nature, spell, or injury to the brain.

Heal does not remove negative levels, restore permanently drained levels, or restore permanently drained ability scores. If used against an undead creature, heal acts as its reverse, harm. Harm drains the target of all but 4 hit points and causes disease in the subject (see remove disease). If used against an undead creature, harm acts like heal.

This Wand of Heal has 50 Charges and each charge expended uses 1 spell one time. When this Wand runs out of Charges, it becomes a non-magical stick.

This Wand is 6 inches long, made of wood, with a tiny Ruby gem at its tip. Karvilo chooses to keep this Wand of Heal in his possession for use when other potions or spells are unavailable to heal himself or his Crimson Crusaders Clan mates!
Karvilo spends his time studying his Manual of Quickness of Action usually under the awning or down by the pond with his other comrades.

His curiosity was piqued by the house of Grunald Horfane that hung halfway in the water. Karvilo strikes up a friendship with Grunald, spending time with him on top of his house each late afternoon and evening talking about the orcs, goblins and other creatures that Grunald has seen lurking across the
Hruesen River under the shadow of The Black Tooth Ridge.

Wednesday night Grunald invites Karvilo into his house to meet the water nymph that comes up through a hole in his floor every night to talk with him. She is an extremely beautiful creature with green hair flowing over her naked breasts. Grunald has fallen in love with her!

She informs Karvilo that there are many dangers near the waters of the Hruesen River and to be on guard against the various creatures that lurk near the edge of the river. The water is not safe!

The water nymph is able to make the morning mists on the river from dissipating until late in the day. She also has hidden melodies in her voice that can lure victims to their doom in the water, but she takes a liking to Karvilo and warns him to watch out for the hidden dangers along the river!

Trossach the Barbarian When Trossach enters The Halfling Community he is swarmed by little children who want to touch the Crimson Crusader who pulled the bleeding corpse from off the top of The Halfling of Legend. He is a hero to the halflings and they present him with a quiver full of 20 Slaying Arrows for aiding Drogo!

Slaying Arrows are +1 arrows that are magically attuned to a particular type or subtype of creature. These particular Arrows Slay Orcs! If one of these Slaying Arrows strike an Orc, the target must make a Constitution Save or Die Instantly! Trossach has the choice of sharing any of these Slaying Arrows with his Crimson Crusaders comrades, or using them himself, when they are fighting Orcs!
Trossach also spends his time under the awning or down by the pond reading his Manual of Quickness of Action during the same time his other 3 companions read theirs.

His visit with Uncle Ferkin at The Keep provides the Barbarian with valuable information as to how ruthless Orcs can be when attacking people or places they think are defenseless!

When he visits the Farrier Greden Merkmen, the Barbarian learns that Greden is actually the only surviving member of the River Wardens in this area. River Wardens are sworn to oppose the minions of The Horned One and Greden is convinced that the minions of The Horned One are gathering their forces somewhere in The Black Tooth Ridge!

He provides Trossach with some valuable information and warns the Barbarian that many dangers lurk along the banks and in the waters of The Hruesen River!

Greden is one of the few surviving River Wardens and is exploring the river bank on the Botkinburg side of the river while trapping and hunting. He remains aloof from the rest of the community, zealously guarding his true identity, lest the minions of The Horned One learn of his existence.

The River Wardens were supposedly all destroyed by the minions of The Horned One, because they are feared for their knowledge and abilities to defeat the minions of The Horned One.

After his third visit, Greden trusts Trossach and gives him a gift that he has been hiding until such a time as the unknown evils across the river could be confronted by either himself, his fellow River Wardens (who may be dead for all he knows!) or by a worthy hero who is brave enough to confront and destroy the minions of The Horned One!

+2 Oath Bow is a white +2 composite long bow that whispers “Swift defeat to my enemies!” when knocked and pulled. If the firer swears aloud to slay his target, the bow's whisper becomes the low shout “Swift death to those who have wronged me!”

Against such a sworn enemy the bow has a +5 enchantment bonus and arrows launched from it deal an additional 1d6 points of damage.

However, the bow is treated as a +1 weapon against all foes other than the sworn enemy. These bonuses and penalties last for 7 days or until the sworn enemy is slain or destroyed by the wielder of the Oath Bow, whichever comes first.

The Oath Bow may only have one sworn enemy at a time. Once the wielder swears to slay a target, he cannot make a new oath until he has slain that target or 7 days have passed.

Even if the wielder slays the sworn enemy on the same day that he makes the oath, he cannot activate the Oath Bows special power again until 24 hours have passed from the time he made the oath. (Trossach decides to keep the Oath Bow for himself because the River Warden trusted him enough to take him into his confidence and to give him the Oath Bow!)
Trossach finds little of value from the Woodsmen brothers as they are more apt to drink and want more than any fair share of treasures. They do tell the Barbarian while in their drunken stupor that it has become too dangerous in many parts of The Barren Wood and especially near Fromkin's Pass to go treasure hunting!

One of the halflings named Buckeye Shipp (Area 25) tells Trossach that south of Botkinburg in The Barren Wood near the wagon trail that leads to Fromkin's Pass that he spotted some strange signs in the woods while cutting and hauling wood:

“The Trees were bent back at the tops, as if something were looking through the high spots all about!” He fervently believes that a giant or something is about in The Barren Wood in the direction where these 8 Crimson Crusaders will be travelling to cross the river to The Black Tooth Ridge!
(Area 9) Edgar and Meekal tell Trossach, “There are more than just animals along that ridge, there are evil things a 'flittin' about now!”

(Area 10) Old Man Nestor tells Trossach that the signs along The Black Tooth Ridge indicate that the evils of The Horned One are gathering together as they once did long ago! He hears strange sounds carried on the wind late at night and puts food offerings on his porch for the fey (wood pixies) for his protection!

(Area 11) Trossach makes a call upon Aaron von Bedering, but the sheriff is no where to be found when the Barbarian looks for him! His helper Erhardt takes the Barbarian into his confidence as he tells Trossach that he is a member of a secretive order of woodsmen of holy lineage.

The Guardians of The Tree, a group devoted to hunting down and locating any remnants of The Horned One's agents. Erhardt came to Botkinburg months ago to investigate persistent rumors of an ancient and rising evil along The Black Tooth Ridge! He scouts about when he can get away from the sheriff to investigate the stolen cattle and pigs and other strange rumors about town.

As he walks about Botkinburg the Barbarian hears the following from passers by who are a bit afraid to engage the Half Orc in lengthy conversation:

“Daemons is out at nights … watch you feed 'em well laddie!”

“Thase a witch in the woods … and her familiars are here!”

“Eatin' them halflang foods 'eel get ya killed for shure!”

“Someone here is giving them Red Caps some information!”

“The Black Tooth Ridge is home to evil sorcerers … the living dead … and much worse!”

“There's more gold in The Black Tooth Ridge than in all the south kingdoms!”

“I fear there is more about than thieving … ancient evil I says!”

“I know one thing only … The Witch King is back again!”
Tohmaz the Shaman Tohmaz enjoys the gardens and simple way of life of the halfling farmers, but chooses to rise early and go to (Area 4) The Oak Grove and Shrine to read his Tome of Leadership and Influence. (He is accompanied by Rhiannon the Monk that first day!)

Off the town square is a large and sloping hill upon the top of which is a tremendous oak. The ground about the base of the hill is well worn and dusty from many years of use during festivals and markets. The upper portion of the hill is covered in thick and verdant green grass and flowers, all year round, despite any weather. The oak is likewise festooned with bright green leaves year round.

The Great Oak is a holy place where many come to offer worship to the deities of the sun, moon and harvest. There is no cleric or druid which watches over the tree, but many travel to Botkinburg to worship here. The Great Oak is covered in many glyphs that have been seared into its bark. They were placed there by the servants of Mordius, the Lady of the Forests, many centuries ago when the tree acted as a receptacle for the deity's will.

Those who stop to worship or admire The Great Oak do not disturb the Shaman or the Monk during their meditations.

When he goes to The Keep the Shaman makes sure that the Lady Marchessa Fabressa is informed that Gisela Hafner asked him to come minister to Clement Botkin. The Hafners have already informed the Botkins that the Shaman has been invited to The Keep and he is expected. (Rhiannon is with him!)

Clement is too far gone for a Rain Dance due to the ravages of old age and a hard life in his younger years adventuring and protecting his namesake city!

The Shaman tries his best to comfort Clement and during a moment of marked improvement, Clement Botkin sits bolt upright in his bed, grips the Shaman's and Monk's arms, wildly proclaiming:

"The Minions of The Horned One Are Near! The Minions of The Horned One Are Near!"
Then Clement collapses upon his bed with a serene smile, content that he has delivered his message to someone who will do something about the unknown evil beyond the borders of Botkinburg! His health seems to have improved from the Shaman's attention.

Aldadius Mastinfelderin the wizard friend of Clement Botkin was near at hand to witness this tableau and thanks the Shaman and the Monk for attending to his long time friend.

They go to another quarters where Aldadius informs the duo that if anyone knows there is unknown evil from the minions of The Horned One near at hand, then it would be Clement Botkin, who spent his best years battling those dark agents of evil throughout The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge.

Aldadius gives Tohmaz a Pearl of Power that once per day on command enables the possessor to recall and cast again for a second time any 2 of his Level 2 Spells that he has already cast for that day! He does this because of the kindness shown to his friend Clement Botkin!
Uncle Ferkin (who lost his arm in battle with an orc) informs the Shaman that he would rather remain with only one arm as a reminder to others of the voracity and danger that orcs present in battle! He does however take a shine to Rhiannon and offers her a special gift (see Rhiannon the Monk for more info!)

As for Mertin von Stock (Area 15) he welcomes the good will of the Shaman to invoke a blessing upon his garden and milk cows, but will only say that he has a checkered past that his is not proud of and does not want to discuss it with the Shaman.

The Kellers (Area 16) welcome the Shaman to bless their milking cows and cheeses, confiding in the Shaman that the road to Ludensheim and other markets have become too dangerous for the family to travel alone to sell their wares. They are now reduced to hiring armed guards to escort them once every winter to Ludensheim when the roads are less travelled and evil creatures seem to hibernate!

(Area 5) The Tinker's Caravan at the base of the hill on the Oak Grove is used as the town market or gathering place for festivals. There are 3 wagons drawn up and several families of tinkers are here now. They travel far and wide through the region and collect and sell all manner of items.

Farank and Helda are newlyweds staying at The Bent Hook and Garfeld the Leader of the Caravan is quite concerned about the lovely young maiden who has disappeared. He informs the Shaman that for the past several months they have had to be escorted by Emerald Crusaders and other Swords for Hire as The Barren Wood is alive with unhealthy creatures and vagabond robbers or worse!

They have been attacked by robbers and lurking creatures in the shadows of the wood have been encountered and chased off by their armed escorts! They plan to stay here for the foreseeable future!

As for Lars and Gisela Hafner at The House of D'Amter, the Shaman is informed that any frog parts or bird parts or lizard parts or the parts of any other creatures are suitable for his purposes. They talk of many things pertaining to herbs and healing, but Lars does not give any more potions to the Shaman as he is content that what Drogo Tulk received is more than ample for their upcoming journey to The Black Tooth Ridge!

Rhiannon the Monk As mentioned previously, the Monk accompanies Tohmaz the first day (see references under Tohmaz the Shaman for further details!) and studies her Manual of Gainful Exercise.

Uncle Ferkin informs her that he no longer has need of his Bracers of Deflection since he lost an arm battling an orc during an adventure with Clement Botkin! He lost his arm while saving Clement's life!

Bracers of Deflection double a Monk's innate bonus to dodge or deflect hurled items or weapons. Any character other than a Monk receives a +2 to armor class. This effect does not stack with worn armor. Rhiannon chooses to use these Bracers of Deflection for herself after what happened to her on the Ruby River Boat during the journey to Botkinburg!
Rhiannon spends her other days either in the company of the Shaman or down by the pond in The Halfling Community during the time she needs to read her Manual of Gainful Exercise (her choice of locations for study!).

While the Shaman makes his rounds, Rhiannon the Monk concentrates on surveying the perimeter of Botkinburg, learning what she can about its defenses by the Emerald and Gold Crusaders,

She discovers that most of them do not want to come anywhere near a Crimson Crusader, but her prowess with weapons and Amazon beauty draws a handful of them to answer her questions as she demonstrates her talents with weapons!

No one has a clue regarding the origins of the mysterious Black Lightning Bolts on the bolts and arrows that have claimed the lives of Gold, Emerald and Crimson Crusaders!

The Red Cap Goblins are becoming more bold in their raids upon Botkinburg, numerous creatures have been heard and seen lurking about and traces of Orc War Bands have been found throughout The Barren Wood and are showing signs of drawing dangerously close to Botkinburg!

Brenys the Rogue Brenys chooses to go to The Bent Hook with Shayleigh to stay in a room, but does go with the Bard to The Chancel to study her Tome of Leadership and Influence.

She is not much interested in studying or deciphering other parchments once she has studied for 8 hours each day, so she walks around town and gleans much of the same information from the Gold and Emerald Crusaders as Rhiannon has done.

Brenys shares a private room with Shayleigh, but she delights in pulling pranks on a dwarf assassin named Gurdin who is also staying at the House of Sludge. She switches his full mug for an empty mug and even hides some of his mason tools when he is not looking.

Uther Shoder is a knight staying at The Bent Hook who becomes quite taken with Brenys. He is from a barony to the south and after being rebuffed by Volkmar Botkin, is seeking some stout hearted adventurers to help him wrest away his inheritance and lands from an uncle who he claims has illegally taken possession of what is rightfully his. He travels with 2 retainers who guard him in his room.

Uther gives Brenys a Stone of Alarm as a token of his affections. This is a stone cube that when given a command word, affixes itself to any object. If that object is touched thereafter by anyone who does not first speak the same command word, the stone emits a piercing screech for 1 hour that can be heard up to a quarter mile away (assuming no intervening barriers). She keeps this for her own use!
Brenys does find favor with Mertin von Stock as she curiously investigates the rumors that he has some type of dark secret. Mertin takes her into his confidence and tells her that he used to be a notorious highwayman when he was a young man, but left that life behind when he journeyed to Botkinburg about 15 years ago and met his wife, who died after giving birth to their second child.

Mertin teaches Brenys a few tricks of the trade as one rogue to another, then gives her a Ring of Evasion from his secret stash of stolen goods! This platinum ring continually grants the wearer the ability to avoid damage by dodging.

The wearer must make a dexterity save whenever attacked. If the save is failed, the wearer takes half damage, a successful save results in no damage at all. Brenys keeps this ring for her personal use!
Mertin informs Brenys that too much evil is afoot these days in The Barren Wood and across The Hruesen River and lurking in the crags and crevices of The Black Tooth Ridge. He gives her the ring for her safety because she reminds him of his dead wife!

Shayleigh the Bard Shayleigh the Bard enjoys singing and reciting poetry at The Bent Hook aka House of Sludge in the evenings after studying her Manual of Quickness of Action at The Chancel and then casually looking at any parchments she may want to try to decipher.

Malinamous a human wizard who a few months ago decided that it was too dangerous to explore The Barren Wood or The Black Tooth Ridge by himself, has become quite taken with Shayleigh. He rooms at The House of Sludge and gives her a Wand of Chain Lightning to aid her in her quest as a Crimson Crusader about to explore the unknown of The Black Tooth Ridge!

Bolts of lightning spring from this 50 Charge 6 inch wooden wand, striking a target and then arcing to other targets within 50 feet of the prime target. The bolt deals 1d6 points of damage per caster level on the primary target.

After the bolt strikes, the lightning can arc to as many secondary targets as the caster has levels. The secondary bolts each strike one target and deal half as many dice of damage as the primary (rounded down). All subjects can attempt dexterity saving throws for half damage.

The character chooses the secondary targets, but they must all be within 50 feet of the primary target, and no target can be struck more than once. The character can choose to affect fewer secondary targets than the maximum.

This wand uses 1 Charge per action and becomes a non-magical stick once it has been used 50 times! Shayleigh decides to keep the Ruby tipped wand for her own use!
Shayleigh also uses her charms to learn from the Gold Crusaders that many unexplainable dangers are lurking about in The Barren Wood and across the river in the shadow of The Black Tooth Ridge!

She also discovers some interesting information from a parchment that she deciphers at The Chancel that very Friday afternoon:

The Halfling of Legend is no ordinary halfling. Taller than the average halfling he is known to be a Tall Fellow Halfling that has developed Dark Vision to a distance of 30 feet. Otherwise he is identical to other average halflings.

There is a curious birth mark above his heart and his parentage is unknown. He will arrive in the northern territories of a New Realm at a time when a great unknown evil once again seeks to enslave the populace south of its borders.

He will be in the company of an unlikely band of heroes who have abilities and talents far beyond his own. They will be the ones to turn the tide against this unknown evil. The Halfling of Legend is merely the sign of their coming!

One Not Touched by Bolts or Arrows!

One Who Hates Orcs!

One Who Shoots Fire From His Bow!

One Who Carries a Glowing Blade!

One Who Heals!

One Who Seeks Vengeance!

One Who Inspires War Poems!

One Halfling Who Fights Beside Them!

One Prankster Who Aids Them!

One Dwarf Who Wars Before Them!

One Half Orc Who Protects Them!

One Elf Who Walks Unseen Among Them!

One Healer Who Serves Them!

One Warrior Who Uses Magic Helps Them!

One War Poet Who Inspires Them!

This Tall Fellow will do what he must to protect his betrothed, by journeying with this odd assortment of battle companions, who choose to join themselves together as a Clan of Curse Defiers!
The 8 Crimson Crusaders share the information they have gathered and pledge to use the items they have been given to help each other eradicate any evil they encounter!

As they show each other what they have found for the good of the Clan; the Ranger, the Rogue, the Barbarian, the Monk and the Bard sense a transformation beginning to take place deep within them!

Karvilo the Ranger will become a Level 4 Ranger on Tuesday, May 15. [Upon reaching Level 4 Karvilo will have 44 Hit Points instead of 33 Hit Points!]

Brenys the Rogue will become a Level 5 Rogue on Saturday, May 19.
At 5th level, a back attack deals triple damage. [Upon reaching Level 5 Brenys will have 40 Hit Points instead of 32 Hit Points!]

Trossach the Barbarian will become a Level 4 Barbarian on Tuesday, May 15.
WHIRLWIND ATTACK: At 4th level, a barbarian’s combat sense and athleticism merge in a fearsome and deadly ability. With this ability, the barbarian can combat multiple enemies surrounding him. The barbarian must announce use of the ability before attacking and he cannot retreat before using it.

The whirlwind attack is usable only once per combat encounter and replaces their normal combat action. When used, the barbarian gains an attack roll against two opponents as long as those enemies are within 5 feet or less of the barbarian and possess no more than one-half of the barbarian’s hit dice. For example, two second level fighters attempt to jump a barbarian in an alley; the barbarian may make a whirlwind attack, gaining one attack against each of the fighters.

The number of foes subject to the whirlwind attack increases as the barbarian rises in levels. At 6th level the barbarian can attack up to 3 opponents, and at 10th level a barbarian can attack 4 opponents. The ability does not progress beyond 10th level. [Upon reaching Level 4 Trossach will have 60 Hit Points instead of 45 Hit Points!]

CORRECTION: Rhiannon the Monk will become a Level 4 Monk on Tuesday, May 15 [Upon reaching Level 4 Rhiannon will have 60 Hit Points instead of 45 Hit Points!]

Shayleigh the Bard will become a Level 4 Bard on Tuesday, May 15
FASCINATE: At 4th level, a bard gains the ability to place a single creature into a trance. The creature to be fascinated must be able to see and hear the bard, and the bard must also see the creature. The creature must be able to pay attention to the bard. The distraction of a nearby combat or other danger will prevent the ability from working. The bard can use song or poetics to produce the intended effect on the creature, through music, poetry, chanting, speech, whistling, playing an instrument or any combination of the above, as long as some verbal performance is included.

Bards can use this ability three times per day, and can maintain the effect for a number of rounds equal to their level. When a bard uses this ability, the target makes a charisma saving throw to resist the bard’s spellsong. If the saving throw fails, the creature sits quietly and listens to the bard for up to the full duration of the effect. While using this ability, a bard must concentrate, as if casting or maintaining a
spell. While fascinated, the target is treated as if prone and also suffers a -4 penalty to all saving throws and a -5 to armor class.

If the creature’s saving throw succeeds, the bard cannot attempt to fascinate that creature again for 24 hours. Any threat that is obvious to the fascinated creature, such as the casting of a spell, drawing of a sword or aiming of a weapon automatically breaks the effect. As the bard rises in levels, the power of the fascination increases as well, allowing the bard to further influence the listener through suggestion. These specialized uses of the fascinate ability can only be performed on creatures who are under the influence of the bard’s fascinate ability.

At 5th level, a bard may attempt a charm person on a fascinated creature. At 8th level, a bard may
attempt to implant a suggestion into a fascinated creature. At 12th level, a bard may attempt antipathy/ sympathy on a fascinated creature. At 18th level, a bard may attempt a mass suggestion on fascinated creatures. In each case, the creature receives a saving throw to attempt to resist the spellsong.

As the bard gains experience, the number of creatures that can be affected by the fascination, or one of its specialized uses, increases. The number of creatures is equal to two fewer than the level of the bard. For example, a 4th level bard can fascinate 2 creatures, a 6th level bard can fascinate 4 creatures, and a 12th level bard can fascinate 10 creatures. [Upon reaching Level 4 Shayleigh will have 44 Hit Points instead of 33 Hit Points!]

NOTE FROM THE CASTLE KEEPER
You Still Have Time to do some Back Posting reflections on what has transpired thus far in our adventure.

I expect to post 2 more Castle Keeper scenarios before I leave Ghana, which should grease the wheels of this adventure for the New Year!

BluddGrinn enjoyed staying in The Halfling Community with Drogo and the others. Sometimes he would poke his head inside the burrows of the halflings who greeted him, but it merely reminded him of how he used to live under the foothills of the Aratock Mountains.

The young War Cleric vowed that he would do his best to help preserve the way of life of these halflings. He did not want any of them to experience the heartaches and sorrows of the losses that he himself had suffered those many years ago.

So BluddGrinn was all the more diligent to study his Tome of Leadership and Influence each morning until the early afternoon, before going to see Tirten Shodfoot as his daily routine had become over the past 4 days.

At first Tirten did not even want to speak with the young dwarf because of some misunderstandings between the Butcher and his own dwarf clan many long years ago, but when BluddGrinn mentioned that his mentor The Tinker told him to look up an old friend in Botkinburg, the countenance of Tirten changed dramatically!

When the Butcher realized that this was the apprentice that The Tinker had entrusted him to give the Staff of Power to, he readily agreed to drive the weapons wagon and journey with his Crimson Crusaders Clan to eradicate the evil emanating from The Black Tooth Ridge!

That very Staff of Power proved useful in gaining an audience with the wizard Aldadius Mastinfelderin, who confirmed to the young War Cleric that many unknown dangers were lurking about in The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge.

He advised BluddGrinn to use the 50 Charges in the Staff of Power wisely, also noting that whenever the charges were used up that the +2 Quarterstaff would prove to be quite useful in combating any UnDead that he and his Crimson Crusaders comrades may encounter.

Uncle Ferkin also proved to be a very informative source of information from his experience of battling Orcs, which BluddGrinn was enthusiastically drawing from the old soldier's experience, noting how the hated Orcs fought on the surface world, as he had only fought them underground.

BluddGrinn looked forward to battling Orcs on the surface world, be it in The Barren Wood or The Black Tooth Ridge, as long as the young War Cleric had plenty of opportunity to bloody his blades against his hated foes, promising to make them pay for the loss of Uncle Ferkin's arm!

But the young War Cleric chose to spend most of his free time eating choice meats with Tirten and drinking ale into the late evening, gleaning from the Butcher anything he could possibly use to become a better opponent against whatever evils were lurking upon the surface of The Realm of New Aenochia.

When he gathered with his Crimson Crusaders Clan on Friday night, he gladly received the potion of Cure Serious Wounds from Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords. He also took note of the prophecy parchment that Shayleigh had deciphered, as well as all of the ominous forebodings of unknown dangers seeming to lurk everywhere outside of Botkinburg!

Although there was news of Orcs drawing dangerously close to Botkinburg, there was no indication from the gathered information that that particular War Band of Orcs would actually dare draw too close to the town, what with the Emerald Crusaders on patrol and the Gold Crusaders defending the perimeters of what had now become “home” to the young War Cleric.

He was ready to defend Botkinburg at a moments notice, should there be even the slightest indication that the War Band of Orcs would draw near enough to threaten the safety of the inhabitants. If they did decide to attack the unsuspecting population, then BluddGrinn hoped it would be before they began their journey to The Black Tooth Ridge on Wednesday morning!

Later that night he spent some time down at the pond conversing with his deity Steel The Dwarven God of War, petitioning him to look favorably upon The Halfling Community and to do anything in his power to prevent any Orcs from spoiling The Betrothal Ceremony that was to take place between Drogo Tulk of the Short Shorts and his beloved Eva Whitefoot on the morrow!

Should any Orcs come within smelling range of Botkinburg, the young War Cleric was ready to face them alone if need be, to prevent them from spoiling his young Halfling Fighter friend's happiness!

Drogo Tulk was a fast learner as Wymon Whitefoot led him through the Thorn Hedge. He was surprised at how natural it was for him to walk his way through the Thorn barrier. He was greeted by the Halfling Canines who took to him as if he had always lived at The Halfling Community.

He was wanting to see Eva Whitefoot, but according to her father Wymon, the young Halfling Fighter would have to wait until Saturday to see her in person at The Betrothal Ceremony. That was just fine with Drogo, because he had plenty of reading to do and was required to spend time greeting and talking with the halflings who came to meet this Halfling of Legend in person.

The young Halfling Fighter receives a Rusty Tan Bag of Tricks from one of the emissaries of The Halfling Community. This small sack appears to be normal and empty of contents. However, anyone reaching into the bag feels a small fuzzy ball at the bottom.

If the ball is removed and tossed up to 20 feet away, it turns into an animal that serves the character that drew it from the bag for 10 minutes (or until slain or ordered back into the bag) at which point it disappears.

Any animals produced are always random and only 1 may exist at a time. Up to 10 animals can be drawn from the bag each week.

This particular Rusty Tan Bag of Tricks will produce either a Brown Grizzly Bear, a Wolf, a Boar or a Tiger. (Drogo keeps this bag for himself to use since it was a gift from a halfling emmisary!)
Drogo was quite impressed with this extraordinary gift that was unexpectedly provided by an emissary of The Halfling Community. From what Drogo had heard already, plus what Wymon Whitefoot confided to him as they passed through the Thorn Hedge, Drogo was glad to have some extra help to battle whatever evil would be encountered in The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge.

When he visited the Hafners (after the first opportunity that he was able to slip away from the curious halflings that came to visit with him after his meditation time in his Manual of Bodily Health) the young Halfling Fighter was surprised at how much these human healers knew about halflings.

He was quite surprised at their knowledge of The Halfling of Legend and the company of unlikely heroes that would defy a curse and fight against the unknown evils beyond the borders of Botkinburg. These humans were convinced that Drogo and his Crimson Crusaders Clan members were the ones foretold in the halfling prophecies and legends.

Drogo decided to test exactly how much the Hafners believed that he and his companions were the ones they thought they were. He boldly asked the Hafners for any additional healing items in exchange for his promise to fully investigate the surrounding areas in The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge to eliminate any and all evil creatures they discovered during their journey.

In addition, Drogo also promised to protect Botkinburg if the inhabitants were ever in danger while Drogo and his Crimson Crusaders Clan members were near enough to fight against any unknown evils that dared to invade the area.

The Hafners were quite pleased with Drogo's promise and said something about The Halfling of Legend would do such a thing whenever he arrived in Botkinburg, so Lars went into his storage area and brought back 8 Cure Serious Wounds Potions and 2 Cure Critical Wounds Potions.

Lars explained that each flask held enough of the potions for 2 doses and was quite pleased when Drogo mentioned that he would make sure that each of his companions received a flask of the Cure Serious Wounds to carry and use on either themselves or someone else when the need arose.

Drogo could not stay with the Hafners much longer than to receive the Potions and drink some herb tea and eat some berry snacks. He was needed back at The Halfling Community because his very presence was an encouragement to the halflings who had been preparing for battle against the unknown evil that was building its forces far beyond the borders of Botkinburg.

The young Halfling Fighter took the time to listen to the concerns of the halflings who visited him and he was very meticulous in asking them questions about what they knew was transpiring in The Barren Wood and along The Black Tooth Ridge.

Drogo assured them that he and his companions would do everything possible to protect Botkinburg and to eliminate whatever evil presence was lurking in The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge.

He was the first Crimson Crusader to share with his Clan members the information gathered from the halflings in Botkinburg and he made sure that each Crimson Crusader received a flask of the Cure Serious Wounds Potion.

Since he realized that Rhiannon the Monk was determined to wreak vengeance on those responsible for attacking the Ruby River Boat and upon whatever evil was responsible for the deaths of her Amazon Sisters, the young Halfling Fighter chose to give her the other flask containing the Cure Critical Wounds Potion, while he chose to keep the other one in his possession.

There was no telling who may need a healthy dose of the Cure Critical Wounds Potion and Drogo did not want to make a mistake as to who to entrust with the second flask, so he kept it in his possession for himself to use on whoever would need it most in the days ahead.

Drogo listened intently to each of his comrades as they informed each other about what they had learned and what had been given to each of them. Drogo was certain that all the Healing Items were being given to this War Party because there were dangers greater than anyone possibly realized.

When he heard about the weapons that were given, the young Halfling Fighter was more certain that they would be facing dangers untold and dangers unknown. They would have to use their gifts wisely, especially the Staff and Wands that only had 50 Charges!

They would have to be alert and on guard once they left Botkinburg, because there was no telling what evil awaited to destroy these Crimson Crusaders in The Barren Wood and The Black Tooth Ridge.

When Shayleigh shared the information about The Halfling of Legend and his unlikely band of heroes that she had deciphered from the parchment at The Chancel, the young Halfling Fighter became more convinced that he and his companions were the ones prophesied who would come to Botkinburg.

"I Am Who I Am and We Are Who We Are!" thought Drogo to himself.

Botkinburg 5pm
The Halfling Community
Saturday, May 12, 30awd (After Winter Dark)
The day had been fairly uneventful for the 8 Crimson Crusaders, other than their daily routine of reading and meditating upon the pages of the tomes and manuals that The Chancel priests had bequeathed to them, everyone was basically spending their Saturday relaxing after the week's events.

They had plenty of things to think upon from the information they had gathered the 4 previous days and each of the Crimson Crusaders felt a whole lot more confident regarding their chances of surviving the unknown as they prepared themselves to begin their journey to explore The Black Tooth Ridge on Wednesday.

Most of the population had prepared themselves throughout the day for The Betrothal Ceremony and Feast taking place in The Halfling Community, so each Crimson Crusader had to content themselves with the fact that no one was available to talk to, other than themselves after they had finished studying.

What added to the festivities was the knowledge that no Orcs had been sighted near the outside perimeters of Botkinburg. Gold Crusaders were still on patrol, but no Emerald Crusaders were sighted, which was a good thing as their duty was to patrol the vast expanse of The Barren Wood.

The Betrothal Ceremony Feast amounted to an evening of merriment and celebration that lasted well into the night. The Halfling Community grounds was spread out like one big picnic area with all kinds of sumptuous delicacies ranging from meats, fish, fruits, vegetables and plenty of juices and ales.

Drogo Tulk was introduced to one and all as Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords who had journeyed from the Sword Studio of Preston Tallfellow from deep in the Kellerwald Forest to answer a summons for help from his beloved Eva Whitefoot to assist The Halfling Community to fight against the growing threat of an unknown evil whose presence could be felt in The Barren Wood and emanating all along The Black Tooth Ridge.

When Wymon Whitefoot presented his beautiful daughter Eva Whitefoot to those assembled, declaring that this was the first time that Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords had seen her since arriving with his Crimson Crusaders companions in Botkinburg, the crowd let out a roar of approval.

Drogo looked at the lovely Eva as she smiled and curtsied before him, then he bowed to her and began a Sword Dance with his twin short swords both in worship to Preston Tallfellow and as a pledge to protect his beloved for as long as he was able to draw breath and lift his swords to defend her!

Once he had completed his dance, Drogo was allowed to sit at a table next to his beloved in the company of her father Wymon Whitefoot, who proceeded to pontificate for several minutes and pronounce his blessings upon the betrothal of his daughter and Drogo.

Many toasts were made in honor of the young couple and each of his Crimson Crusaders comrades lifted a tankard in their honor and said a few appropriate words.

However, the crowd began chanting for Trossach to say much more as he was regarded as a hero for pulling the corpse off of Drogo before he was drowned in the blood of the huge burly fighter who had fallen over him during the attack against the Ruby River Boat before arriving in Botkinburg!

The crowd also chanted for Karvilo the Unseen to say some more words to the crowd, as he was also regarded as a hero among the halflings for rescuing the halfling family when their wagon was attacked by the Road Gnomes when Karvilo was making his journey to sign on as a Crimson Crusader!

There was great dancing and rejoicing well into the night as each Crimson Crusader made his or her rounds to greet the halflings and humans who had gathered together to celebrate this joyous occasion.

BluddGrinn the Grim was as hospitable as he could be and did join in on the feasting and festivities for a little while, but just long enough to be considered one of the family and a great friend of Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords.

When the young War Cleric was able to lose himself in the crowd of dancing celebrants, he cautiously made his way to a place near the main gate where he could stand guard in case the War Band of Orcs who had been sighted a few days previously near the outskirts of Botkinburg decided to launch a surprise attack under cover of darkness while most of the city celebrated and danced the night away!

BluddGrinn stood guard with a group of Halfling Canines who followed him and spent their time jumping on the young War Cleric and licking him playfully until they fell asleep at his feet.

Fortunately there were no signs of Orcs or any other dangerous creatures threatening to disrupt the Betrothal Party, but BluddGrinn did notice off in the distance the lightning flashes that illuminated the eerie outline of The Black Tooth Ridge that seemed to mock him from afar!

Before long BluddGrinn was fast asleep, sprawled upon the Halfling Canines who had befriended the young War Cleric, content that there was no danger threatening to disrupt the festivities in honor of his friend Drogo Tulk and his beloved Eva Whitefoot.

NOTE FROM THE CASTLE KEEPER

You Still Have Time to do some Back Posting reflections on what has transpired thus far in our adventure. But time is running out if you plan to do some Back Posting Before the New Year Arrives!

Drogo Tulk was introduced to one and all as Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords who had journeyed from the Sword Studio of Preston Tallfellow from deep in the Kellerwald Forest to answer a summons for help from his beloved Eva Whitefoot to assist The Halfling Community to fight against the growing threat of an unknown evil whose presence could be felt in The Barren Wood and emanating all along The Black Tooth Ridge.
Thankfully, as far as Drogo was concerned, there was no mention of him being The Halfling of Legend when Wymon Whitefoot introduced the young Halfling Fighter to the celebrants who had gathered together for The Betrothal Celebration Feast in honor of Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords and his beloved Eva Whitefoot.

Whether it was because the halflings did not want to be reminded of the dire threats of unknown evil that had caused Eva to summon Drogo for help, or just as a courtesy to refrain from drawing attention away from The Betrothal Ceremony, it was a welcome relief to Drogo to not hear his name mentioned in the same breath as The Halfling of Legend.

He had resigned himself to the fact that in the light of what he had learned since arriving in Botkinburg, that he was indeed the one pointed to in the prophecies, but Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords would much rather the attention be upon his Crimson Crusaders comrades, rather than upon himself.

From what he had heard the Bard Shaleigh Bran share with the group the previous night from what she had deciphered from another parchment at The Chancel, it was not so much The Halfling of Legend that would deliver Botkinburg from the unknown evil beyond its borders, but rather those who were travelling with him who were the key to any victory against the minions of The Horned One!

So this evening Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords was much more relaxed than usual, other than being the focal point of a Betrothal Ceremony, but he figured that he was merely standing in the shadows of such a celebration, knowing that the bright lights of joy were more focused upon his beloved Eva Whitefoot than they were upon himself.

When Wymon Whitefoot presented his beautiful daughter Eva Whitefoot to those assembled, declaring that this was the first time that Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords had seen her since arriving with his Crimson Crusaders companions in Botkinburg, the crowd let out a roar of approval.

Drogo looked at the lovely Eva as she smiled and curtsied before him, then he bowed to her and began a Sword Dance with his twin short swords both in worship to Preston Tallfellow and as a pledge to protect his beloved for as long as he was able to draw breath and lift his swords to defend her!

Once he had completed his dance, Drogo was allowed to sit at a table next to his beloved in the company of her father Wymon Whitefoot, who proceeded to pontificate for several minutes and pronounce his blessings upon the betrothal of his daughter and Drogo.

Many toasts were made in honor of the young couple and each of his Crimson Crusaders comrades lifted a tankard in their honor and said a few appropriate words.
Drogo had been somewhat aware of how beautiful Eva Whitefoot was when she and her father had visited her cousin at the Sword Studio of Preston Tallfellow, plus his remembrance of her as he made his journey to Botkinburg served to embellish her beauty in his memories of her, but when Wymon Whitefoot presented her before the celebrants all those memories paled in comparison to the lovely vision of the beautiful halfling maiden that he beheld this night.

All nervousness and awkwardness on his part melted away as he began to dance a dance with such passion and celebration as he had never done before in his life. He was aware of worshipping his deity Preston Tallfellow with this particular dance, but it was so much more than glorifying his deity!

It was a dance of thankfulness and devotion that Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords was declaring to all who looked on, as he fastened his eyes upon the eyes of his beloved, twisting and turning and bobbing and weaving round about her. He was letting Eva know that she was now and forever surrounded with his love and protection for as long as he lived no matter what dangers confronted them!

Drogo was soon rewarded with the opportunity to spend the rest of the celebration seated next to Eva, which made everything that he had been through the past several weeks well worth the wait.

It did not even matter that Wymon Whitefoot seemed to go on and on pontificating and brandishing a tankard of First Berry Wine as though it were a sword in his hand, doing so in exaggerated gestures to emphasize the points he was making during his oratory, which were many!

Wymon spoke of his daughter Eva with great tenderness and admiration as he extolled her virtues and spoke of her years as a child, fairly beaming with pride that his daughter had grown to be such a lovely halfling young woman, now betrothed to the one she had sent a message to help her people in their time of need against the growing evil beyond the borders of Botkinburg!

But the elder Wymon passed over that notation without drawing too much attention to the unknown dangers, rather focusing upon the love his daughter expressed to him privately in regards to one Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords!

Her father could think of no better match for his daughter and boasted that Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords had freely given him his entire bag of 100 Gold Coins for signing on as a Crimson Crusader, to declare his desire and intent to marry Eva Whitefoot when she became of age!

Wymon welcomed Drogo into the family and then toasted the happy couple as the crowd broke forth into long spontaneous cheers that swallowed up any embarrassment felt by either Drogo or Eva for being the focus of attention during this night of joyous occasion!

Drogo savored the toasts and kind words that his Crimson Crusaders comrades made in his behalf and for his beloved Eva! Then he took Eva by the hand and began dancing with her, encouraging the guests to join in the celebration before consuming another round of food and drinks!

BluddGrinn the Grim was as hospitable as he could be and did join in on the feasting and festivities for a little while, but just long enough to be considered one of the family and a great friend of Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords.
BluddGrinn the Grim was not so grim this night as to put a damper of a gloomy appearance upon his countenance as his friend Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords and his lovely beloved Eva Whitefoot basked in the glory and honor of the adoring crowd and their adulations for the betrothed pair!

He was still quite concerned that the War Band of Orcs or some other menace might find this an opportune time to strike against an unsuspecting population of celebrants, but his faith in Steel the Dwarven God of War had been amply rewarded.

The previous night he had spent some time down at the pond conversing with his deity Steel The Dwarven God of War, petitioning him to look favorably upon The Halfling Community and to do anything in his power to prevent any Orcs from spoiling The Betrothal Ceremony that was to take place between Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords and his beloved Eva Whitefoot the next evening!

There were no reports of any missing cattle, other than the cattle slaughtered for The Betrothal Feast to feed most of the population of Botkinburg who were in attendance. Nor was there any report of Kruggle the Ogre lurking about and stealing pigs!

BluddGrinn would make sure that he warred a good warfare in honor of Steel the Dwarven God of War when the opportunity presented itself to honor his deity for bringing peace instead of war upon this joyous occasion of his young Halfling Fighter friend and his beloved Eva.

But for now the young War Cleric would join in the festivities and honor his friend and his beloved with a hearty toast and a few words of kind regards:

"Long Live Drogo And Eva!

May You Both Live Long And Prosper!

May Your Children Bring You Both Great Joy!"
BluddGrinn refrained himself from making any references to conquering the evils that may try to destroy their happiness together, choosing rather to lift his Mug of Sludge with a hearty hoop and a holler, before draining the contents and dancing an intricate War Jig to honor his friends!

When the young War Cleric was able to lose himself in the crowd of dancing celebrants, he cautiously made his way to a place near the main gate where he could stand guard in case the War Band of Orcs who had been sighted a few days previously near the outskirts of Botkinburg decided to launch a surprise attack under cover of darkness while most of the city celebrated and danced the night away!
Should any Orcs come within smelling range of Botkinburg, the young War Cleric was ready to face them alone if need be, to prevent them from spoiling his young Halfling Fighter friend's happiness!

He was carrying his newly acquired Staff of Power so as not to alarm any of the celebrants who may be observing him. For all they knew, the young War Cleric was merely hiking about with a walking stick.

Making sure that he sported a grin instead of his usual grim countenance, he made his way to his chosen place of vigil, enjoying the celebration, while standing guard against any unexpected foes!

BluddGrinn stood guard with a group of Halfling Canines who followed him and spent their time jumping on the young War Cleric and licking him playfully until they fell asleep at his feet.
At first BluddGrinn was a bit annoyed by the playful Halfling Canines, but he soon realized that if any hidden dangers were lurking about, that the Halfling Canines would sound an alarm and be ready to protect the celebrants at a moments notice!

They had keen ears and noses and were probably much better adapted (by years of experience and breeding) at detecting surface dangers than the young War Cleric was (from his years spent below the surface underneath the Aratock Mountains), so BluddGrinn soon gave in to their playful mood and wrestled around with them until the Halfling Canines fell asleep.

Fortunately there were no signs of Orcs or any other dangerous creatures threatening to disrupt the Betrothal Party, but BluddGrinn did notice off in the distance the lightning flashes that illuminated the eerie outline of The Black Tooth Ridge that seemed to mock him from afar!
"Hide Yourselves Well My Unknown Foes!

Flee Now While You Are Still Able!

The Crimson Crusaders Clan Have Come To Destroy You!"
Before long BluddGrinn was fast asleep, sprawled upon the Halfling Canines who had befriended the young War Cleric, content that there was no danger threatening to disrupt the festivities in honor of his friend Drogo Tulk and his beloved Eva Whitefoot.
BluddGrinn wakes up in plenty of time to finish his final morning of reading his Tome of Leadership and Influence to complete his 48 hours of study in a minumum of 6 days!

Botkinburg 6pm
The House of Sludge
Monday, May 14, 30awd (After Winter Dark)
The Betrothal Feast had lasted well into the night and on into the wee hours of Sunday morning, (May 13) before the celebrants began drifting back to their homes or rooms, staggering with tunes of merriment and proclaiming more blessings upon Drogo and Eva.

The young Halfling Fighter bowed first to Wymon Whitefoot to excuse himself for the night so he could wake up in time to begin his final day of reading his Manual of Bodily Health, before he bowed to his beloved Eva, kissed her hand and made his way back to his waiting bedroll underneath the tent where his 5 other Crimson Crusader Clan members would somehow find their way back to before daybreak in time to snatch some rest before reading their books for the final day.

A slight drizzle of rain began misting upon Botkinburg a few hours after dawn, bringing a refreshing atmosphere and a cleansing to the soil. There was no threat of a major thunderstorm, just a slight drizzle that became a light steady rain later that afternoon.

The rain continued throughout the day and on into the evening, but did not cease during the night. The Crimson Crusaders had to content themselves with making their preparations as best they could, because the townspeople mostly stayed indoors on Sunday or made their way to The Bent Hook for an evening of merriment and several rounds of Sludge or some other ale to pass the time away.

Shayleigh the Bard took a few turns entertaining the guests and patrons at The Bent Hook, but she made sure that she spent plenty of time with her Crimson Crusader Clan comrades to compare notes and discuss what they had all learned about Botkinburg during their first week in town.

Each Crimson Crusader was well aware that his or her six days of reading their particular tome or manual had improved their designated ability before night fell upon Botkinburg.

Shayleigh, Karvilo and Trossach were aware of a marked improvement to their Dexterity skills (+5 bonus), while Brenys, Tohmaz and BluddGrinn were also aware of a marked improvement to their Charisma (+5 bonus).

Rhiannon was acutely aware of a marked improvement to her Strength abilities (+5 bonus), while Drogo was transformed in his Constitution (+5 bonus).

Perhaps it was due to his being a Tall Fellow Halfling, but Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords underwent an incredible transformation from reading his Manual of Bodily Health for the past six days!

The young Halfling Fighter underwent an incredible transformation for taking damage in battle, as a Great Bonus was conferred upon him. Drogo received +5 Hit Points for each Level that he had already attained Retrospectively and would continue to receive +5 Hit Points for each progressive Level in the Future! [Drogo now has a total of 76 Hit Points from his incredible transformation!]

If this had anything to do with his being anointed as The Halfling of Legend, the young Halfling Fighter had no idea, but he would use this transformation of Hit Points to help protect his Crimson Crusaders Clan members by fearlessly confronting any danger that sought to claim their lives!

After a couple more hours, Drogo and his companions enjoyed their walk through the rain back to The Halfling Community where their tent awning was well able to keep them dry from the falling rain.

The rain increased for a few hours before dawn on Monday, but by noon the sun broke forth and began blessing the inhabitants of Botkinburg with its nourishing rays. This enabled Gideon to bring some of the weapons and armor for the inspection and testing of each Crimson Crusader who had made requests a few days previously to the Lady Marchessa Fabressa, to provide for their journey to explore The Black Tooth Ridge, to help them eradicate the unknown evil and bring back any discovered treasure.

Gideon let them know that their horses would be delivered to them sometime on Tuesday afternoon, along with the rest of their gear to be stored in the wagons.

Meanwhile, they were to be content with trying on their assorted armors for size and getting used to wearing them, plus getting the feel of their ordered weapons. They thanked Gideon and tried on their various armors and tested the strength and temerity of some of their weapons, before sitting down to enjoy their last night of merry making.

Each Crimson Crusader was also well aware that their Ring of Sustenance had become perfectly attuned to their own individual spirit, soul and body; so they were planning on having one last hearty round of ales in The House of Sludge, as they would have to make ready the following day and night to depart Botkinburg on Wednesday to begin their journey to explore The Black Tooth Ridge.

All they had to do was to wait one more day for their individual Prayer Bead to attune itself to their own unique physiology, then they would be able to once a day call upon the power of their own Single Ruby hued Prayer Bead to be used upon themselves, by casting one of the following 3 spells per day: Cure Serious Wounds, Remove Blindness/Deafness or Remove Disease.

While they were relaxing and enjoying the company of each other, an alarm horn was sounded by one of the Gold Crusaders on patrol, followed by a warning shout:

"Orcs Are Coming! Orcs Are Coming!"
Moments later someone rushed inside The Bent Hook to breathlessly proclaim that 4 wounded Emerald Crusaders rangers, carrying their cleric comrade who was dangerously close to death, had just entered the town from a battle against the Orc War Band that had been sighted days ago!

As the patrons and Crimson Crusaders rose from their seats, they heard a quick explanation that 3 wagons escorted by a dozen or so 'swords for hire' loaded with women and children headed to Ludensheim had been attacked by the Orcs, who massacred the 'swords for hire', then savagely butchered every woman and child before any patrol of Emerald Crusaders could stop them!

The 5 surviving Emerald Crusaders had only arrived in time with another patrol to witness the atrocities, soon joined by a third patrol that enabled the 5 to make their way unhindered to Botkinburg, to seek aid and warn the garrison of Gold Crusaders to prepare for an invasion of Orcs, who would most certainly pursue them, because the 3 patrols had been vastly outnumbered by the marauding Orcs!

The 8 Crimson Crusaders rushed outside from The House of Sludge to see what they could do to assist the wounded Emerald Crusaders, but they were already being escorted to The House of D'Amter where Lars and Gisela would be able to tend to their wounds and save the life of their fallen cleric.

BluddGrinn bellowed with a War Beserker Rage, his now familiar declaration regarding his hated foes, as he ran in the direction where the surviving Emerald Crusaders were pointing, indicating the route they had taken when fleeing the Orcs after engaging them in battle.

Without a second thought in regards to his own safety or preparation for battle, the War Cleric ran past The Butcher Shoppe without stopping to notify Tergin, heading past the outskirts of The Halfling Community with his Crimson Crusader Clan mates in hot pursuit, as they followed the direction of the War Cleric who they barely glimpsed plunging into a section of The Barren Wood southwest of Botkinburg, where 20 Gold Crusaders were positioning themselves to defend the town's inhabitants.

BluddGrinn bellowed forth a blood curdling oath as he charged past the defensive formation that the Gold Crusaders had set up on the outskirts of Botkinburg to repel the advancing Orcs!

Drogo Tulk answered the War Cleric with an oath of his own as he too rushed past the Gold Crusaders to help protect the inhabitants of Botkinburg, by carrying the battle deeper into The Barren Wood in hopes that by setting a surprise ambush the innocents of the town would remain unharmed.

One by one the other Crimson Crusaders followed the lead of the War Cleric and the Fighter, until they found a suitable clearing that the Orcs would have to cross before reaching Botkinburg.

BluddGrinn hid himself behind some fallen trees facing the center of the clearing, while Drogo did the same a few feet to his left. The other Crimson Crusaders took positions that suited them well enough for ambushing the invading Orcs.

They all waited several minutes with bated breaths, eyes and ears straining to detect any sounds of hostile Orcs advancing towards their hidden position, expecting an unknown number of enraged Orcs to charge their way through the rain dampened underbrush of The Barren Wood in pursuit of the surviving Emerald Crusaders!

The War Cleric had led them to an ideal place for ambushing an unsuspecting War Party of Orcs. They were positioned at the opposite end of a clearing that was 100 feet long and about 40 feet wide. They could see 3 trails converging into the clearing, so they waited motionless for any sign of intruders.

As they waited, Karvilo's Long Sword (Betula's Singing and Dancing Sword) began glowing! Almost simultaneously, the single quiver of arrows that Trossach had strung across his back was suddenly joined by a special red leather quiver filled with 5 red fire arrows with sharpened rubies for arrowheads. (A gift from the Half Orc Barbarian's deity Hino, before going into battle, that will burst into flames when shot and deliver 1d10 +5 in damage and flames! Each arrow that Strikes and Kills an enemy or creature vanishes in smoke!)

Soon they could hear the unmistakable sounds of slavering snarls and heavy footsteps breaking their way through the rain dampened underbrush, still quite some distance away from the secluded Crimson Crusaders Clan members.

The young War Cleric muttered an oath to himself that could not be heard by the approaching enemy, as the expectation of slaying his hated foes continued to build, his every muscle tensing in anticipation of another great battle to bring glory to his deity Steel the Dwarven God of War!

Suddenly the savage Orcs burst into the clearing, armed with battle axes dripping with the remains of their most recent victims, now bellowing for the blood of those accursed Emerald Crusaders who had killed their brothers and somehow gotten away in the heat of battle! (They are also each armed with a heavy cross bow and a quiver of bolts slung across their backs!)

As the 8 Crimson Crusaders watch the first 16 Orcs suddenly burst into view, they note what appears to be a sub-chief leading the way a few steps ahead of the other 15 runners. More answering snarls are heard from beyond the trees, but it is unclear how many other Orcs are running towards the clearing!

These particular Orcs are displaying vicious tempers as they aggressively begin to cross the clearing! They are dirty, vile creatures with yellowed teeth broken in many places, upturned noses resembling swine set in broad faces with fiery red beady eyes that are glowing orbs of rage!

Their skin is a blackish green, their chests are broad and well muscled from years of fighting either their own kind or other unfortunate races, their pointy ears are quite thick and their matted hair is dirty and caked with the blood of their victims and their own untended wounds, which they wear as proud badges!

Current Hit Points and Class Levels for The Crimson Crusaders Drogo Tulk the Fighter became a Level 4 Fighter today (Monday, May 14). [Drogo now has 76 Hit Points instead of 54 Hit Points!]

Karvilo the Ranger became a Level 3 Ranger on Thursday, May 10. [Karvilo now has 33 Hit Points instead of 22 Hit Points!]

Brenys the Rogue became a Level 4 Rogue today (Monday, May 14). [Brenys now has 32 Hit Points instead of 24 Hit Points!]

Trossach the Barbarian became a Level 3 Barbarian on Thursday, May 10. [Trossach now has 45 Hit Points instead of 30 Hit Points!]

Rhiannon the Monk became a Level 3 Monk on Thursday, May 10. [Rhiannon now has 45 Hit Points instead of 30 Hit Points!]

BluddGrinn the Cleric became a Level 3 Cleric on Thursday, May 10. He also became a Level 4 Cleric today (Monday, May 14) [BluddGrinn now has 44 Hit Points instead of 33 Hit Points!]

Cleric Spells.
Level 0 Spells CREATE WATER
Creates 2 gallons/level of pure water.
ENDURE ELEMENTS
Protection from natural elements and weather
FIRST AID
Bandages bleeding wound.
PURIFY FOOD AND DRINK
Purifies 1 cu. ft./level of food or water.
DWARVEN SPELL GOLD REVEAL
The spell causes all the gold in the given area to burst into faerie fire flames revealing any and all hiding places where gold can be found.
Level 1 Spells DWARVEN SPELL MINOR BLAST
At a touch, the caster loses 2 hit points and does 2d6 in concussive damage. Door locks, chests and other things can burst open at this blast.
CURE LIGHT WOUNDS*
Cures 1d8 damage
DETECT UNDEAD
Reveals undead within 60 ft.
SOUND BURST [Bonus Spell]
A pulse of sound that causes 1d8 damage
INVISIBILITY TO UNDEAD
Undead can’t perceive subject.
Level 2 Spells DWARVEN SPELL ROCK TO SAND
The spell transforms normal rocks of any type into loose sand. The caster points his hand and the depth transformed is 100 feet of sand in that direction. Any cave-in caused by the spell does 6d8 in damage. Dressed stone is immune to the effects of the spell. The raw rock must be visible to the caster. If intelligent beings are touching the rock, the spell is negated.
CONSECRATE*
Makes location holy, turning and harming undead
SPIRITUAL WEAPON [Bonus Spell]
Divine weapon attacks on telepathic command.
SPEAK WITH DEAD
Corpse answers questions

Tohmaz the Shaman became a Level 3 Shaman on Thursday, May 10. He also became a Level 4 Shaman today (Monday, May 14) [Tohmaz now has 40 Hit Points instead of 30 Hit Points!]

Shaman Spells
Being a worshipper of Atira he can cast PLANT GROWTH once a day
PLANT GROWTH* [Level 3 Druid Spell granted by Atira]
Grows vegetation, improves crops.
Level 0 Spells ENDURE ELEMENTS
Protection from natural elements and weather.
FIRST AID
Bandages bleeding wound.
KNOW DIRECTION
The caster discerns north.
PURIFY FOOD AND DRINK
Purifies 1 cu. ft./level of food or water.
AMERICAN INDIAN DRUID SPELL SPIRIT GUST OF AIR
A wind rises up in the spell area and puts out all flames or banishes all fogs or gases in the area.
Level 1 Spells AMERICAN INDIAN DRUID SPELL WEAPON PLUS
The spell puts a +1 on a weapon or shield for every attribute point the caster wants to place on the object. When the caster wants their attribute points back, the spell expires and the object loses its magical pluses. Only one caster can place a plus on an item.
ENTANGLE
Plants entangle everyone in 50 ft. circle.
PASS WITHOUT TRACE
Subject leaves no tracks or scent.
GOODBERRY [Bonus Spell]
2d4 berries each cure 1 hit point (max 8 hp/day)
MAGIC STONES
Three stones gain +1 attack, deal 1d6+1 damage.
Level 2 Spells AMERICAN INDIAN DRUID SPELL SUMMON WEAPON
A finely made weapon of any type the caster has used before can be summoned to the hand of the caster. The weapon is effective for 24 hours before it vanishes.
CURE LIGHT WOUNDS*
Cures 1d8 damage.
SUMMON SWARM [Bonus Spell]
Insect or vermin attack and disrupt foes.
DELAY POISON
Stops poison from harming subject for 1 hour/level.

Shayleigh the Bard became a Level 3 Bard on Thursday, May 10. [Shayleigh now has 33 Hit Points instead of 22 Hit Points!]

Pending Level Promotions Karvilo the Ranger does not become a Level 4 Ranger until tomorrow (Tuesday, May 15). [Upon reaching Level 4 Karvilo will have 44 Hit Points instead of 33 Hit Points!]

Brenys the Rogue does not become a Level 5 Rogue until Saturday, May 19 [Upon reaching Level 5 Brenys will have 40 Hit Points instead of 32 Hit Points!]

Trossach the Barbarian does not become a Level 4 Barbarian until tomorrow (Tuesday, May 15. [Upon reaching Level 4 Trossach will have 60 Hit Points instead of 45 Hit Points!]

Rhiannon the Monk does not become a Level 4 Monk until tomorrow (Tuesday, May 15) [Upon reaching Level 4 Rhiannon will have 60 Hit Points instead of 45 Hit Points!]

Shayleigh the Bard does not become a Level 4 Bard until tomorrow (Tuesday, May 15) [Upon reaching Level 4 Shayleigh will have 44 Hit Points instead of 33 Hit Points!]

NOTE FROM THE CASTLE KEEPER

You Still Have Time to do some Back Posting reflections on what has transpired thus far in our adventure, but I strongly suggest that you get that done soon before our adventure gets too much further along, as the 8 Crimson Crusaders and their wagon drivers are scheduled to leave Botkinburg in 2 days (assuming you do not do something foolish and get your PC Character Killed by Orcs!)

Make sure you let me know what type of weapons and armor and other equipment you ordered from the Lady Marchessa Fabressa, including what you are currently carrying to battle against the invading Orcs!

I will probably NOT Be Posting any more Castle Keeper posts in The Crimson Crusaders game section until after I have returned from Ghana and had some time to rest from my flight back to the States.

That should give you all ample time to make a post regarding your current position, your plan of attack, including whatever weapons and armor your characters are now carrying into battle!

BluddGrinn bellowed with a War Beserker Rage, his now familiar declaration regarding his hated foes, as he ran in the direction where the surviving Emerald Crusaders were pointing, indicating the route they had taken when fleeing the Orcs after engaging them in battle.
"I Hate Orcs!

Death To My Hated Foes!

Steel Knows It Has Been Much Too Long Since I Have Slain Orcs In His Name!"
Without a second thought in regards to his own safety or preparation for battle, the War Cleric ran past The Butcher Shoppe without stopping to notify Tergin, heading past the outskirts of The Halfling Community with his Crimson Crusader Clan mates in hot pursuit, as they followed the direction of the War Cleric who they barely glimpsed plunging into a section of The Barren Wood southwest of Botkinburg, where 20 Gold Crusaders were positioning themselves to defend the town's inhabitants.

BluddGrinn bellowed forth a blood curdling oath as he charged past the defensive formation that the Gold Crusaders had set up on the outskirts of Botkinburg to repel the advancing Orcs!
"Let Us Earn Our 100 Gold Coins By Slaying Some Orcs!"
BluddGrinn heard no sound ahead of him, save the beating of his own heart in his chest, as the thrill of combat against his most hated enemy spurred him onward, deeper into The Barren Wood.

The young War Cleric was wearing the Studded Leather Armor and carrying 2 Throwing Axes in his belt that Gideon had brought to him for his inspection, plus the Staff of Power he carried with him wherever he went, having left his other weapons behind in his haste to confront his hated Orc foes!

He might even have a spell or two that could be used to battle the Orcs, but with the blood pounding in his brain and the adrenaline rush coursing through his body, the young War Cleric would just as soon beat them with his bare hands as to rely on any of his cleric spells!

As he ran through the woods, sniffing the air for any trace of his foes, but only inhaling the sweet fragrance of a fresh rain upon the flora and fauna in The Barren Wood, BloodGrinn searched for a suitable place to position themselves to successfully ambush the Orcs.

In a few more moments the young War Cleric spotted the ideal place for setting just such an ambush. He quickly surveyed the area as he waited for his Crimson Crusaders comrades to catch up with him, choosing a suitable place to position himself, as if he were again fighting in an underground cavern.

The War Cleric had led them to an ideal place for ambushing an unsuspecting War Party of Orcs. They were positioned at the opposite end of a clearing that was 100 feet long and about 40 feet wide. They could see 3 trails converging into the clearing, so they waited motionless for any sign of intruders.
BluddGrinn calmed himself for battle, silently praying to his deity Steel the Dwarven God of War, for his good fortune of being called upon to fight Orcs on the surface world, instead of underground as he had done for so many years against the minions of The Horned One.

Soon they could hear the unmistakable sounds of slavering snarls and heavy footsteps breaking their way through the rain dampened underbrush, still quite some distance away from the secluded Crimson Crusaders Clan members.

The young War Cleric muttered an oath to himself that could not be heard by the approaching enemy, as the expectation of slaying his hated foes continued to build, his every muscle tensing in anticipation of another great battle to bring glory to his deity Steel the Dwarven God of War!
"Run To Us My Hated Foes!

None Of You Shall Be Able To Flee!

The Crimson Crusaders Clan Are Here To Destroy You!"
BluddGrinn gripped his Staff of Power in anticipation of seeing his hated foes, welcoming their intrusion with a thrill of joy that only mortal combat can afford to bring to those who lay their lives on the line for a just cause!

Suddenly the savage Orcs burst into the clearing, armed with battle axes dripping with the remains of their most recent victims, now bellowing for the blood of those accursed Emerald Crusaders who had killed their brothers and somehow gotten away in the heat of battle! (They are also each armed with a heavy cross bow and a quiver of bolts slung across their backs!)

As the 8 Crimson Crusaders watch the first 16 Orcs suddenly burst into view, they note what appears to be a sub-chief leading the way a few steps ahead of the other 15 runners. More answering snarls are heard from beyond the trees, but it is unclear how many other Orcs are running towards the clearing!

These particular Orcs are displaying vicious tempers as they aggressively begin to cross the clearing! They are dirty, vile creatures with yellowed teeth broken in many places, upturned noses resembling swine set in broad faces with fiery red beady eyes that are glowing orbs of rage!

Their skin is a blackish green, their chests are broad and well muscled from years of fighting either their own kind or other unfortunate races, their pointy ears are quite thick and their matted hair is dirty and caked with the blood of their victims and their own untended wounds, which they wear as proud badges!
BluddGrinn noted to himself that these particular Orcs seemed to be much more vile than those he had encountered beneath the Aratock Mountains, or perhaps he had forgotten how vile his past foes really were since the last time he had fought any Orcs?

The young War Cleric remained in his surprise attack position, anticipating the shock his hated foes were about to encounter as they poured into the clearing, rushing headlong into a Crimson trap!

BluddGrinn will attack any onrushing Orcs with his Staff of Power once they are in range for face to face combat. He is counting on his Clan members to cut a few down with a surprise volley of arrows from their secluded positions!

BluddGrinn bellowed forth a blood curdling oath as he charged past the defensive formation that the Gold Crusaders had set up on the outskirts of Botkinburg to repel the advancing Orcs!

”Let Us Earn Our 100 Gold Coins By Slaying Some Orcs!”
Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords was running after the War Cleric as fast as his short legs could carry him. The young Halfling Fighter was spurred on by the knowledge that these vile Orcs had slaughtered helpless women and children.

All that Drogo could think of was the danger that his beloved Eva and all the children in The Halfling Community would be facing alone if these Orcs managed to break through the defenses that the Gold Crusaders were constructing to defend the inhabitants of Botkinburg.

Drogo Tulk answered the War Cleric with an oath of his own as he too rushed past the Gold Crusaders to help protect the inhabitants of Botkinburg, by carrying the battle deeper into The Barren Wood in hopes that by setting a surprise ambush the innocents of the town would remain unharmed.
"I Go To Battle in the Name of Preston Tall Fellow!"
Drogo was glad that he had put on his new Rhino Hide armor that Gideon had brought to him so the young Halfling Fighter could get accustomed to it before departing for The Black Tooth Ridge.

He had tried other types of armor over the years while he was training in the Sword Studio of Preston Tall Fellow, but Drogo had always liked the rare Rhino Hide that he often used in years gone by.

This type of armor would not rust, provided him the best protection without impairing the use of either twin short sword and would also protect him from the wind and rain if the elements became antagonistic during their journey into the unknown regions of The Black Tooth Ridge.

Drogo had left his other weapons behind, instinctively rushing after the War Cleric with his most time tested of weapons brandished in each of his hands! This was not a time for the young Halfling Fighter to rely on Bolts or Arrows!

He had spent enough time listening to BluddGrinn repeatedly tell his tales of battling Orcs beneath the surface of the Aratock Mountains, to know that his first confrontation with Orcs as a Crimson Crusader needed to be with his best blades in his hands!

Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords had decided to demonstrate to his Clan members why he had chosen his twin short swords to worship his deity Preston Tall fellow. They had only seen him dance with his swords in worship to Preston Tall Fellow. They had not seen him in battle!

The young Halfling Fighter was determined to be the first Crimson Crusader to come to the aid of the War Cleric, so he ran even faster than his fellow Clan members. He had gotten to know them well enough that he was certain some of them would meet the Orcs head on with a volley of arrows!

So all Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords needed to do was to find a suitable place, near enough to BluddGrinn, to stand ready to slay any Orcs not felled by the arrows of his Crimson companions!

The young Halfling Fighter was exhilarated by the thought of facing Orcs face to face and blade to blade! He and his Crimson Crusaders Clan members would do whatever it took to prevent these Orcs from reaching the defensive positions of the Gold Crusaders guarding the inhabitants of Botkinburg!

BluddGrinn hid himself behind some fallen trees facing the center of the clearing, while Drogo did the same a few feet to his left. The other Crimson Crusaders took positions that suited them well enough for ambushing the invading Orcs.

They all waited several minutes with bated breaths, eyes and ears straining to detect any sounds of hostile Orcs advancing towards their hidden position, expecting an unknown number of enraged Orcs to charge their way through the rain dampened underbrush of The Barren Wood in pursuit of the surviving Emerald Crusaders!

The War Cleric had led them to an ideal place for ambushing an unsuspecting War Party of Orcs. They were positioned at the opposite end of a clearing that was 100 feet long and about 40 feet wide. They could see 3 trails converging into the clearing, so they waited motionless for any sign of intruders.
For a few moments Drogo kept one eye on the clearing and the other eye on BluddGrinn. He would try to refrain from attacking any Orcs until the War Cleric made his move. BluddGrinn was much more experienced in battling these vermin, but Drogo would make sure none of the War Cleric's hated foes would be able to take him by surprise from his left side, where Drogo was well secluded to protect his friend, who had pronounced a gracious blessing upon Drogo and Eva only two nights ago!

Suddenly the savage Orcs burst into the clearing, armed with battle axes dripping with the remains of their most recent victims, now bellowing for the blood of those accursed Emerald Crusaders who had killed their brothers and somehow gotten away in the heat of battle! (They are also each armed with a heavy cross bow and a quiver of bolts slung across their backs!)
Drogo focused both of his eyes upon the vicious enemy that sought to follow the surviving Emerald Crusaders into the sanctuary of Botkinburg, where his beloved Eva awaited news of the victorious return of her beloved Drogo.

He would not let them pass!

As the 8 Crimson Crusaders watch the first 16 Orcs suddenly burst into view, they note what appears to be a sub-chief leading the way a few steps ahead of the other 15 runners. More answering snarls are heard from beyond the trees, but it is unclear how many other Orcs are running towards the clearing!

These particular Orcs are displaying vicious tempers as they aggressively begin to cross the clearing! They are dirty, vile creatures with yellowed teeth broken in many places, upturned noses resembling swine set in broad faces with fiery red beady eyes that are glowing orbs of rage!

Their skin is a blackish green, their chests are broad and well muscled from years of fighting either their own kind or other unfortunate races, their pointy ears are quite thick and their matted hair is dirty and caked with the blood of their victims and their own untended wounds, which they wear as proud badges!
At another time or another place, Drogo Tulk of the Short Swords might have been sickened by the sight of these vicious vermin, but his only reaction to the sights and sounds of their arrival was the anticipation of ending their evil lives before they could harm any more innocents!

Drogo waits for BluddGrinn to make his move against the onrushing Orcs, anticipating his own surprise attack should any of the Orcs try to break through on the left side of the War Cleric!

He also knows his fellow Crimson Crusaders Clan members well enough to expect them to slay a few Orcs with a surprise volley of arrows from their secluded positions!

Clements message……
The Shaman tries his best to comfort Clement and during a moment of marked improvement, Clement Botkin sits bolt upright in his bed, grips the Shaman's and Monk's arms, wildly proclaiming:
"The Minions of The Horned One Are Near! The Minions of The Horned One Are Near!"
Then Clement collapses upon his bed with a serene smile, content that he has delivered his message to someone who will do something about the unknown evil beyond the borders of Botkinburg!
Tohmaz had never seen a spirit warning before but he had been told of this by the elders during his training.
This must be shared with the clan and they all must be on alert.

To Tohmaz only a warning from Altira herself would have caused him more concern.

From that afternoon on Tohmaz never ventured out without his weapons.
His healers pouch was refreshed with the herbs and items he gathered from the farms and the House of D'Amter.
The potion that Drogo had present also went into the pouch.

That evening at their meal Tohmaz relayed to his clan the “Spirit warning” from Clement Botkin.

So for the rest of the week Tohmaz traveled the town ever ready to defend his clan and these people of Botkinburg that have shown them such kindness.

New weapons…..

The rain increased for a few hours before dawn on Monday, but by noon the sun broke forth and began blessing the inhabitants of Botkinburg with its nourishing rays. This enabled Gideon to bring some of the weapons and armor for the inspection and testing of each Crimson Crusader who had made requests a few days previously to the Lady Marchessa Fabressa, to provide for their journey to explore The Black Tooth Ridge, to help them eradicate the unknown evil and bring back any discovered treasure.
When Gideon had deliver their weapon, Tohmaz went to inspect what was brought. He was pleased with the quality and craftsmanship of the items.

He exchanged his hunting bow for one of the battle worthy bows that had been made for him.

The throwing axes were stronger and better balanced than the tomahawk he had carried. He attached one of these to each hip.

The quivers were compact and light, he could easily carry two in the same space as his old one.
Placing two over his shoulder he now carried twice the arrows he had before.

The sheath knives were also designed for combat use being strong yet slender blades.
The eight inch blade in its sheath would strap readily to his leg and ride easy inside his boot.
Tohmaz strapped one to each leg. The third he would figure how strap to the small of his back.

The Shaman had his long wide bladed knife hanging in it usual place on his belt.
He had carried it for so many years that it part of him.
(OOC. If you remember Crocodile Dundee, "now that's a knife!")

There was a long canvas bundle among his things.
He open the bundle and there was the quarterstaff he had requested.

The shaft was strong straight Ash, six inches around and six feet long.
On each was securely place a six inch long sheath of iron clad.

The craftsman had realized that was not walking staff and that these ends weren’t there to decorated or protect the shaft; they were there to add deadly force to any blow struck with this mighty shaft. A knurling was added to the iron so that even a grazing blow might rip the flesh of any enemy the Crimson Crusader using this weapon.

Tohmaz could feel the heft and balance of the quarterstaff.

Even while still carrying his other weapons on his belt or back Tohmaz started wield the quarterstaff through the spins, thrust and parries he learned long ago.
The staff was the first weapon his people learned and this was more of a dance as the feel became natural to him.

Those that had heard him request the staff now saw that he meant what he said,

“The others are skilled with the sword, but I will defend my clan to the death with the strong wood of my Goddess’s forest.”

The new weapons and the fine quarterstaff pleased Tohmaz. He had fitted the bow and quivers over his study leather armor.
He now wore all the items he had tried on were Gidion had presented the new armament.
He needed to know the feel of the axes on his hips and how the knives in his boots would carry as he walked or ran.

So he spent the rest of the day in full battle gear, carrying the quarterstaff and his medicine pouch.
As they sat for evening meal he placed his bow and staff near the door and wore his other items to see he could sit and move while still armed.

Each Crimson Crusader was also well aware that their Ring of Sustenance had become perfectly attuned to their own individual spirit, soul and body; so they were planning on having one last hearty round of ales in The House of Sludge, as they would have to make ready the following day and night to depart Botkinburg on Wednesday to begin their journey to explore The Black Tooth Ridge.
While they were relaxing and enjoying the company of each other, an alarm horn was sounded by one of the Gold Crusaders on patrol, followed by a warning shout:

"Orcs Are Coming! Orcs Are Coming!"
The 8 Crimson Crusaders rushed outside from The House of Sludge to see what they could do to assist the wounded Emerald Crusaders, but they were already being escorted to The House of D'Amter where Lars and Gisela would be able to tend to their wounds and save the life of their fallen cleric.

BluddGrinn bellowed with a War Beserker Rage, his now familiar declaration regarding his hated foes, as he ran in the direction where the surviving Emerald Crusaders were pointing, indicating the route they had taken when fleeing the Orcs after engaging them in battle.

Without a second thought in regards to his own safety or preparation for battle, the War Cleric ran past The Butcher Shoppe without stopping to notify Tergin, heading past the outskirts of The Halfling Community with his Crimson Crusader Clan mates in hot pursuit, as they followed the direction of the War Cleric who they barely glimpsed plunging into a section of The Barren Wood southwest of Botkinburg, where 20 Gold Crusaders were positioning themselves to defend the town's inhabitants.

BluddGrinn bellowed forth a blood curdling oath as he charged past the defensive formation that the Gold Crusaders had set up on the outskirts of Botkinburg to repel the advancing Orcs!

Drogo Tulk answered the War Cleric with an oath of his own as he too rushed past the Gold Crusaders to help protect the inhabitants of Botkinburg, by carrying the battle deeper into The Barren Wood in hopes that by setting a surprise ambush the innocents of the town would remain unharmed.
Tohmaz had grabbed his bow and staff as they had piled out of the Inn.
As the Clan run to catch up with BluddGrinn and Drogo, Tohmaz realized that in all their time together they had not discussed any combat strategy.
Tohmaz knew that each of them was an able warriors, but in order to survive them must work together.

So as the remaining Crimson Crusaders dashed after The War Cleric he shout a simple strategy that he was sure they knew, he hoped this reminder would bring them together.

“Those of us with bows, take down their magic users and archers first. BluddGrinn and Drogo will engage the Orcs in melee and we must protect them.
I will prepare a plant Entangle and Summon Swarm to hold any that advance from the rear.
We will join the War Cleric in the melee as their brutes break through. BluddGrinn will lead us to battle and our enemies will learn to fear their “Curse of The Crimson Crusaders”.
Tohmaz then let out his own battle cry!

“Vittoria per i Crociati Crimson!” (Victory to the Crimson Crusaders)

The War Cleric had led them to an ideal place for ambushing an unsuspecting War Party of Orcs. They were positioned at the opposite end of a clearing that was 100 feet long and about 40 feet wide. They could see 3 trails converging into the clearing, so they waited motionless for any sign of intruders.
The Crusaders caught up to BluddGrinn and Drogo and saw their positions.

Tohmaz moved to left to a position where he could see all three of the trails.
Concealing himself he waited, bow ready.

Suddenly the savage Orcs burst into the clearing, armed with battle axes dripping with the remains of their most recent victims, now bellowing for the blood of those accursed Emerald Crusaders who had killed their brothers and somehow gotten away in the heat of battle! (They are also each armed with a heavy cross bow and a quiver of bolts slung across their backs!)
Tohmaz saw the Orcs enter the clear but to his dismay they also carried cross bows.
He sensed that there would be no way to stop BluddGrinn from attacking the Orc leader.
The War Cleric's righteous fury would overwhelm the sub-chief.
With their leader gone the Orc attach would be in disarray, at least briefly.

But BleddGrinn must be able to reach the Orc.
He must help drop as many of these creatures as he could.

As the 8 Crimson Crusaders watch the first 16 Orcs suddenly burst into view, they note what appears to be a sub-chief leading the way a few steps ahead of the other 15 runners. More answering snarls are heard from beyond the trees, but it is unclear how many other Orcs are running towards the clearing!
The Shaman knew they could handle the Orcs that had already entered the clearing but if more rushed in to reinforce them they could be over run.
So calling on Atira’s blessing he cast an Entangle spell across the tree and bramble across the end of the clearing where the Orcs had entered, hoping that it would catch and stop any others from advancing (first round action).

(This should also catch any Orcs in the clearing that are 25 feet from the tree line with grasses entangling there legs.)

Then raising his bow he started firing arrows into the advancing Orcs already in the clearing (second round action). (this may change depending on what all happens during the first round.)
(If this works, when they have finished the Orcs in the clearing then they can shoot those entangled in the trees.)
(The Entengle will last for four turns.)

Trossach sat at the betrothal ceremony and pondered the situation he found himself in –for life frequently brought one to places that were unexpected. Growing up in the hills to the South East, who would have thought that he would find himself an honored guest at a Halfling betrothal ceremony? Indeed, who would have expected any half-orc to be in such a position. Yet here he was, and a hero even. Sometimes, it was a strange world that they called home.

He thought back to his experience with the Ferrier. A River Warden? Trossach wasn’t completely clear on what that was, but it sounded like some type of ranger. At any rate, the Wardens attempted to protect the river and its people. The gift of the bow was kind – no, it was a great kindness. An amazing honor from someone he knew so little about. He desired to know more about these River Wardens and would keep his eyes out for information. Perhaps he could return the kindness in the future.

The drunken woodsmen were, sadly, more what he had expected to find. A group of drunks. Trossach was certainly no teetotaler, but he had little admiration for those who spent their lives drunk. He had seen drink ruin the lives of several good hunters in his tribe. From an asset to the community, drink had turned them into a liability. A group of strong young men should be an asset to the town should the gathering storm break, but he would not have wanted to trust these woodsmen with watching his back. The town needed better.

Such thoughts invariably led him to consider his own role in the town’s defense. It was clear that these people felt that he and the other Crimson Crusaders were the fulfillment of a legend and fortune. He couldn’t help but wonder what the source of such a legend might be? Everyone seemed to know it. A parchment was written about it. But where did it come from? And why him? The Halfling might be the “Halfling of Legend,” but the parchment seemed to indicate that he too was expected to be a part of this process. He distrusted legends. They were far too easy to be misread – or made up.

Still, the reality at the moment was that he found himself part of a legendary group in the eyes of the good people of Botkinburg. And perhaps any bad ones as well, he realized. He hadn’t considered that possibility until just this moment. The thought of being a target took the shine off “legendary” status a bit.

Still, what really bothered him was the fact that he had not yet done anything to deserve the honors. And not just honors at a banquet, but gifts – amazing gifts. A magical bow, healing gems and potions, a wonderful book of dexterity and the stone of sustenance. Amazing gifts. And so far he had done nothing to deserve even one of them. Time could not fly fast enough. He was ready to hit the trail. The time had come to earn the trust and faith of these good townsfolk. He wished to begin the crusading –and every delay was a frustration, even if it also brought useful information. A good commander knew patience, but also knew the information would likely bear fruit only when put to use. And it was well past time to start putting the information to use and to begin living up to all of the honors being heaped upon them.

(Combat post coming soon, this one was just already 90% done.)

(Note: Trossach would have given 6 orc-slayer arrows each to the monk and ranger with the comment that they are, "for all of us.")

The itchy feeling - the need to be doing something - was rising in the half-orc barbarian. He was being honored in this community for something he had not yet done. It would be best to get on with it. Besides, what was that saying about "waiting on the edge of a battle I can't avoid?"

"Orcs!" The cry rang out through the town.

Trosach rose quickly from his seat in the tavern with the knowledge that he would no longer be just on the edge of the battle anymore. He didn't hesitate, and somehow he knew that his new group didn't either. He followed them out the door at a sprint.

Thankfully he was accustomed to wearing his armor at all times in dangerous areas and for training, so he was well equiped, with his new oath bow, two handed sword, dagger and a handaxe - as well as full armor.

He sprinted after the dwarf, who in his apparent fury was leading the charge. The dwarf sprinted past the gold crusaders who were setting up a perimiter near the edge of the woods. Not a bad idea, but it did look like they were giving the advantage of cover to the orcs. And they were giving up surprise. The half-orc hurried past where the other crusaders were building defenses and followed the dwarf, hopeful that he was not in a blindrage that would lead him to charge headlong into the orcs with no forethought.

But his concerns about the dwarf's fury were for naught. The dwarf picked a perfect loacation for an ambush. He saw the dwarf and halfling hide behind the bushes in front of a large opening. The half-orc took a position a little to their left, under cover of the trees, but where he could easily step forward to fight with a blade if the orcs got close.

As the group took up their positions he said quietly, "I will use a slayer arrow on any leader that emerges. After that I won't waste slayer arrows on an average orc, unless we are in trouble. Beware, the real leader will probably not be leading the charge."

With that Trossach stuck his two handed sword into the ground next to him where he would could easily grab it if hand-to-hand combat seemed to be in order. He was screened by the trees which should give him good cover from counter attacks.

Barbarian moves:
1. Call on the oath bow (make the oath) - and shoot a slayer arrow at the leader.
2. Follow up with red arrows at other orcs, aiming at those on the left first, since that is the side he is on. If the slayer arrow does not kill the leader he will shoot again at the leader, although not with another slayer arrow if the leader is already injured.

Outside Botkinburg 7pm
The Barren Wood
Monday, May 14, 30awd (After Winter Dark)
It almost seemed like slow motion as the vicious orcs ran across the clearing towards the concealed Crimson Crusaders who had all taken their positions behind the foliage and timber at the far end of the 100 foot by 40 foot clearing.

In their savage fury the orcs were unaware of the 8 ambushers who had literally become the first line of defense for the inhabitants of Botkinburg.

[Turn 1 Combat Round 1] Rhiannon, Tohmaz, Trossach, Drogo, BluddGrinn, Karvilo, Shayleigh and Brenys held their positions as the leader of the orcs led the charge across the clearing with the intent of plunging into the woods on the trail of the Emerald Crusaders they had encountered earlier in the day.

The Shaman began casting an Entangle Spell as 18 orcs rushed across the clearing, spreading themselves out in no particular order as they raced across the clearing snarling their blood lust.

By the time Tohmaz had completed his spell, aiming to the side of the middle trail in an effort to prevent any more orcs from emerging from the other side of The Barren Wood, a total of 36 orcs had emerged from the foliage at the other end of the clearing.

As the spell spread and caused the growth of the woods to spring to life with a surge of growth to entrap the orcs, 15 of the orcs were ensnared within the first 25 feet of the clearing, plus an undetermined number of orcs were ensnared in the woods on the other side of the clearing.

The outburst of snarls from the ensnared orcs made it impossible for the Shaman or anyone else to determine how many more orcs were entrapped in The Barren Wood, as 21 of the orcs continued their ferocious charge toward their hiding place all along the opposite end of the clearing, leaving 21 of the orcs for his Crimson Crusaders Clan members to dispose of before attacking the entangled orcs.

Meanwhile, the Barbarian Tohmaz had stuck his sword into the ground and selected a Slayer Arrow to fire at the orc that was leading the charge. He gripped his Oath Bow and took quiet aim as he heard his bow whisper as he nocked the arrow and pulled it back, “Swift defeat to my enemies!”

Then he spoke aloud to his enchanted bow, “I swear by the strength of my arm and my bow that these orcs will not invade Botkinburg this day!”

He heard his bow answer back, “Swift death to those who have wronged me!”

Then Trossach let the arrow fly straight and true, penetrating the base of the lead orc's throat, stopping his sworn enemy dead in his tracks, 35 feet from where BluddGrinn was waiting!

BluddGrinn nodded his approval and held his position without letting any of the charging orcs know that he was waiting patiently to claim their lives. Drogo did the same, also allowing his Crimson Crusaders Clan members to strike first with their arrows, before he would make his move against the hated enemy!

Karvilo selected one of the 6 Slayer Arrows that the Barbarian had given to him and shot it straight and true at the chest of orc #4, who fell dead in his tracks 55 feet in front of the unseen Ranger.

Rhiannon selected one of the 6 Slayer Arrows that Trossach had given to her, took patient aim with her long bow, then watched with satisfaction as orc #12 fell down dead 50 feet from where she was hiding.

Brenys took aim with her short bow, using a regular arrow, watching it strike orc #7 in the left shoulder above the heart, but the orc remained conscious from the unexpected attack.

Shayleigh fired a hasty shot with her long bow, also using a regular arrow, which missed orc #6 (45 feet away), then missing orc #8 (55 feet away), narrowly missing orc #10 (65 feet away) before slicing the right arm of orc #19 (75 feet away).

[Turn 1 Combat Round 2] Trossach selected one of Hino's Fire Arrows and aimed the ruby shaft towards orc #2 who was 10 feet behind the dead orc sub chief that had been leading the charge across the clearing as his Oath Bow again whispered, “Swift death to those who have wronged me!”

The Fire Arrow struck the orc in the chest, bursting into flame as it penetrated its target, mortally wounding the surprised orc, before vanishing in a cloud of smoke! [Dies in 3 rounds].

Tohmaz grabbed his long bow after casting the Entangle spell and quicly shot a regular arrow at orc #11 (45 feet away) that sunk into its chest, causing the orc to lose consciousness. [Will regain consciousness in 4 hours in its present state].

Rhiannon selected another Slayer Arrow and calmly fired it in a straight line towards orc #15 (65 feet away), again resulting in the instant death of another orc!

Karvilo decided to target orc #6 with another Slayer Arrow, resulting in another immediate death (45 feet in front of Shayleigh).

Brenys took another shot at orc #7, managing to grievously wound the enemy (50 feet away). [Will die in 9 rounds if its wounds are unattended].

Shayleigh fired a regular arrow at orc #8 (55 feet away), also managing to grievously wound her target. [Will die in 9 rounds if its wounds are unattended].

BluddGrinn and Drogo held their ground in their secluded positions as the remaining orcs charged across the clearing, snarling their defiance as they relentlessly advanced towards their unknown assailants!

Instinctively the orcs charged towards the end of the clearing and swung their battle axes into the foliage where the 8 Crimson Crusaders were holding their own makeshift line of defense.

Orc #13 swung and missed Rhianna; Orc #21 swung viciously, knocking Tohmaz in the chest and sending him staggering against a tree, his bow and staff falling to the ground; Orc #14 did the same against Trossach, sending the Barbarian off balance against another tree;

Orc #3 swung his battle axe wide over the head of Drogo Tulk; Orc #5 managed to cut the right arm of BluddGrinn; Orc #17 swung wildly at Karvilo the Unseen, cutting itself on the left leg, but managed to remain conscious in spite of the severe pain inflicted upon itself.

Orc #10 swung and missed against Shayleigh; as did Orc #9 against Brenys.

[Orc #16 is behind Orc #14; Orc #20 is behind Orc #5; Orc #19 is behind Orc #10 and Orc #18 is behind Orc #9].

Current Hit Points for The Crimson Crusaders
Rhiannon the Monk 45/45
Tohmaz the Shaman 20/40
Trossach the Barbarian 25/45
Drogo Tulk the Fighter 76/76
BluddGrinn the Cleric 40/44
Karvilo the Ranger 33/33
Shayleigh the Bard 33/33
Brenys the Rogue 32/32
NOTE FROM THE CASTLE KEEPER
The Crimson Crusaders have the Initiative for Turn 1 Combat Round 3, so make your posts according to your plan of defense aka counter attack against the orcs!

12 of the 21 Orcs are an immediate threat to the health and well being of each Crimson Crusader, 15 more are Entangled in the clearing, plus an unknown number are Entangled in The Barren Wood beyond the clearing!