Sonadora the Explorer

You wake up to the sound of birds chirping and sunlight streaming into your makeshift shelter. You came out to wander through the wintery woodland yesterday and stopped to set up camp about a half-day away from town.
Sonadora sighs happily and stretches
Sonadora: What a lovely morning.
As you look around, you notice that Vida doesn't appear to be nearby.
A beam of light happens upon a set of footprints outside that look somewhat familiar.
Sonadora is in a bit of a wandering mood so she decides to search for Vida by following the familiar footprints.
Sonadora: Survival [1d20+9 = 22]
GM: The fresh snow makes it very easy, and you can pretty much see her traveling in what you think is a generally northish direction.
Sonadora hums quietly as she walks, completely comfortable in her surroundings.
Sonadora gets out her greatstaff to help with the terrain
As you walk along, you hear the sound of excited barking nearby.
Sonadora smiles.
Sonadora: Vida?
Vida runs out of some bushes and stops in front of you, tail wagging.
Sonadora pets Vida vigorously.
Vida barks and runs back into the shrubs.
Sonadora follows Vida
As you walk through the bushes you see Vida smelling excitedly at a set of footprints in the snow.
Sonadora bends down to inspect the footprints, concerned.
Sonadora: Knowledge, Nature [1d20+3 = 23]
A careful examination makes it pretty clear that whatever made these was definitely bipedal. You don't recognize it as any creature you know, but you think you detect the presence of talons on the feet, as well as marks that could be made by either sparse hair or fine scales on the feet.
Sonadora glances at Vida and winces.
Vida looks up at you questioningly.
Sonadora: Vida, I think we may have a bit of a problem.
Vida whines softly.
Sonadora pets Vida reasurringly.
Sonadora stands and considers her options. To Follow and destroy, or not to follow and destory? That is the question.
Sonadora decisively makes up her mind to gather more information on this taloned bipedal.
Sonadora: Survival [1d20+9 = 11]
Though it's a bit difficult, the fresh snow makes following the footprints feasible, if not easy for you.
They lead to the east a ways, further from town.
Sonadora motions for Vida to follow her.
Vida follows along, his nose to the ground.
After an hour or so of walking, and spying several deer bounding through the woods, you see the footprints lead into a large patch of shrubs and trees, then disappear.
GM: Spot [1d20+3 = 5]
Sonadora: What do you think, Vida? Yay or nay?
Vida sits down and pants quietly.
Sonadora: Yay it is then.
Sonadora pushes her way through the shrubs.
The footprints don't come out the other side.
Sonadora: Well that's a bit unexpected.
Vida whines questioningly.
Sonadora puts her hands on her hips and then kneels down to inspect the ground further.
Sonadora: Search [1d20+1 = 13]
A quick search through the foliage uncovers nothing new.
Sonadora: take 20 *grin*
Spending some extra time searching, you happen across a slightly wet rag that's otherwise nondescript, at the base of a tree.
Sonadora inspects the rag.
Looking at it, it looks to be fairly non-descript and made of a rather rough fabric - probably linen. It's dirty, wet, and doesn't smell particularly pleasant.
Sonadora grimaces and holds the nasty rag away from her.
Sonadora holds the rag in front of Vida.
Sonadora: Can you track this?
You suddenly hear something hissing softly at your feet and, looking to your right, see a small bright green snake with it's head raised.
Sonadora freezes and stands defensively.
Sonadora readies her greatstaff in case the snake attacks.
Sonadora tries to calm the snake down.
Sonadora: Wild Empathy [1d20+3 = 21]
After a few soothing words and slow, easy gestures, you manage to calm the snake enough that it no longer views you as a threat.
Sonadora slowly backs our of the bushes.
The snake flicks its tongue at you in an almost friendly manner. You may have made a new friend!
As you back out of the shrubs, something small drops from the cloth.
END SESSION

Missing Session: Synopsis Below

So, if I remember right, your day has consisted of: Woke up in the forest, your friend Vida was gone from the tent. Going to look for her, you came upon a set of tracks which you followed until they disappeared in some underbrush around a tree.
Sonadora: I defeated a snake
In the brush, you indeed defeated a snake by calming it and then speaking to it via your Druidic magic. You left from there and found a piece of moist cloth, out of which fell a scale. Then you heard the sound of a young wolf pup, and followed it until you came upon a dark-haired hunter.
He had used a cruel trap to catch the wolf pup, and was looking forward to skinning it and killing it. You intervened, and beat back the hunter and his hunting dog using your Entangle spell to ensure an easy fight.
You freed the wolf-pup, and it fled into the woods limping from the jaw-trap. The hunter looked back at you hatefully before it left in the direction of the town. And that's where we stopped.
GM: Okie! So, the hunter's left towards the town and you're standing in a clearing. Any thoughts as to what you want to do?
Sarah (Sonadora): find out what he's up to?
Sarah (Sonadora): am I suspicious he may do more?
GM: Well, he doesn't seem like a nice guy, and his method of trapping the wolf was cruel, but there are plenty of trappers in the town. Skins and such are pretty important commodities, and there's nothing inherently wrong with hunting animals in a humane way.
GM: If you wanted to find out more about him you'd have to try to follow him, or go to town and ask around.
Sonadora: Vida, I believe we should head back to town. We haven't been home in awhile.
Vida looks at you and wags her tail in anticipation.
Sonadora scratches Vida behind the ears and sets off for town.
Sonadora: Survival [1d20+9 = 24] (Rolled for a sense of direction - normally I'd roll this, but I'm letting them roll more than normal during their early sessions.)
Sonadora hums as she walks and picks flowers for the towns children.
GM: You determine that the town is to the northwest and travel towards it.
A few hours into the trek, though...
Sonadora: Spot [1d20+3 = 16]
Sonadora: Listen [1d20+5 = 9]
But, you do spot some movement in a pile of leaves to the right of the path.
It looks like something your size might be underneath them.
Sonadora grips her quarterstaff and cautiously approaches the piles to see what it is.
Sonadora: Hello?
The pile of leaves shifts at your words, and suddenly you find yourself assailed from the shrubs to your sides!
Sonadora blinks and stands defensively!
GM: Attack1 [1d20+1 = 16]
GM: Attack2 [1d20+1 = 12]
GM: You were cautious, but you didn't know there were things in the bushes... so, you were caught by surprise.
Two small forms rush out of the shrubbery and cling tenaciously to your legs!
William: We've gotcha!
Kate: Yaaaah!
GM: The ringleader of most of the kids in town, William has a natural charisma that even adults find difficult to resist at times. Always grinning, his blonde, freckled face is almost always present when mischief is afoot.
Sonadora giggles and hugs the children, motioning at the crumpled flowers are the ground.
GM: When the average person thinks "farmer's daughter" they usually have an image of a gentle, quiet and demure girl in a dress. Kate is none of those. With her older brother William and her twin brother Aaron as influences, Kate couldn't help but become a tomboy. She's the most physically inclined of the trio, and can usually be found as a patch of red hair clambering over trees, rocks, houses, hills - whatever she can find. Kate also has a particular fondness for animals, but much to her mother's disappointment, she has no interest in the cute furry kinds.
William: We caughtcha by surprise di'n't we!
Sonadora: Look at all this! No flowers for you now.
Sonadora kisses Williams cheek.
Sonadora: You certainly did!
Kate: Pshh, what do we want with flowers anywho? D'you have any snakes with you? Or... or... a rat?
Sonadora grins at Kate.
William wipes at his cheek where you kissed him.
Sonadora: I did see a snake today
Kate: Was it BIG?!
Sonadora: Twice your size!
Pile of Leaves: Hey! Guys? Guys! Did we get her?
Sonadora spreds her arms wide to demonstrate.
Kate: Ooooooh.
Sonadora gasps.
Sonadora: Quick, save me!
Sonadora hides behind William and Kate in mock terror.
A small freckled face peeks out from underneath a pile of leaves.
Aaron: Hullo?
GM: His red hair always bobbing near his brother, Aaron is much shier than William. While William is always near trouble, Aaron is usually the one *in* trouble. The both of you originally became acquainted with the Ruhlins after finding Aaron half-buried in a hole because William assured him it would "grow an Aaron tree."
GM: Needless to say, Aaron is the younger brother.
Sonadora jumps out from behind the older children and yells, "Boo!"
Aaron falls backwards into the pile of leaves, screaming!
Aaron: Aieee!
Aaron flails wildly, trapped in the pile.
Sonadora laughs and pulls Aaron out of the pile, hugging him.
Aaron shuffles his feet.
Aaron: Hullo 'dora.
Sonadora ruffles Aaron's hair.
Sonadora: Hello, Aaron.
Aaron: Did we getcha?
Sonadora tickles Aaron.
Sonadora: You did!
William: No thanks t'you, weenie!
William: Ya were sposeda jump out, too!
Aaron: I was scared... what if it was a bear or sumfin'?
Aaron: It coulda been a bear, right 'dora?
Sonadora: I was scared too. It's not often I run into a pile of moving, talking leaves.
Sonadora agrees with Aaron, pretending to be terribly frightened while hiding her smile.
Aaron perks up.
Aaron: Y'mean I scared ya?
Sonadora gives Aaron a wide-eyed stare.
Sonadora: Terribly!
Aaron puffs out his chest and gives a big gap-toothed grin.
Sonadora hides her giggle behind her hand.
You notice Kate behind you petting Vida and scratching him behind the ears.
Sonadora gives Vida a warning look to behave.
Vida wags his tail happily.
Sonadora: Shall we head home?
Kate and Aaron both look to William, a sheepish look on their faces.
Sonadora glances at the children with a smile, leaning on her quarterstaff.
Sonadora: What happened?
William: Oh, um, we... we're just headin' out this way. For, y'know, no reason...
William glances back at the bushes he was hiding in.
Sonadora: Ah, right, good...
Sonadora nods and absently brushes a leaf off her skirt
Sonadora: Sense Motive [1d20+3 = 21]
William seems to be glancing back at the bush behind him worriedly.
Sonadora: I suppose you'll just want to keep wandering out further....
William: Um, yup. Yeah.
Sonadora peers into the bushes as innocently as possible.
Aaron: It's cause we're go-
Kate clamps her hand over Aaron's mouth.
Kate gives an innocent smile.
Sonadora raises and eyebrow at the children and waits...
William: So, we'll, just... be goin' now..
William: Um... see you in town!
Sonadora: Oh, really?
Sonadora folds her arms over her chest expectantly.
William looks at you with an expression of total innocence.
Sonadora fixes her stare on Aaron.
Aaron wilts under your gaze and looks down at his feet, Kate's hand still over his mouth.
Sonadora: You know, I have some time till supper. Why don't I just come along?
William looks up aghast!
William: No, no, that's not... y'don't need to!
Sonadora smiles innocently and takes hold of Williams hand.
Sonadora: Oh, but I insist! What a fun adventure this shall be.
Sonadora: Where are we going?
Kate sighs loudly.
Kate: Just tell 'er Will.
Kate strides up to you.
Kate: We've got a -
Aaron: WegotafootprintattheendofastickanditsinthebushesandweweregonnauseittoplaytricksoneveryoneanGMakethiemthinkthereweremonsters!
Aaron takes a deep breath to keep going.
Sonadora frowns.
Aaron: ButthenwesawyoucomingalongsowehidandthenjumpedoutatyouandtheytoldmeIhadtokeepquietorthey'dpoundme!
William glares at Aaron.
Sonadora: Tricking people into thinking there are monsters about it terrible. Didn't you ever hear about the boy who cried Wolf?
Sonadora glares at William and then Kate.
William: We weren't gonna do nothin' mean or anything!
Sonadora: It's wrong.
William: Just wanted to, y'know, have fun'n stuff.
William: Fun's not wrong, right?
William mumbles to himself, shuffling his feet.
Sonadora justs continues giving a special look to William, keeping her disapproval plain on her face.
William: Fiiiiine. We'll go back to town...
William mumbles some more.
Aaron: You're not gonna tell Mom'n Dad are you?
Sonadora hugs William, then Kate, and then Aaron
Sonadora: Of course not....this time.
Sonadora grins mischievously.
Kate moves quietly towards the bushes and pulls out a long stick with what looks like an animal paw attached to the end.
The three shuffle off towards the town, moving into a jog as William pushes Aaron and runs away in the direction of Sundown.
Sonadora and Vida trail behind a bit slower, enjoying the walk.
About a minute after you seem them leave your sight, you hear a loud shout coming from their direction!
END SESSION

A map of the area surrounding Sundown.

Chat Log Started at XX:XX:XX
GM: So, you're just southeast of the city of Sundown by an hour or so.
The last thing you heard was the scream of one of the kids after they'd walked away for a minute or so.
Sonadora gasps and runs after the kids.
Sonadora: Come on, Vida!
You careen through the forest, Vida at your side -
Sonadora: Spot [1d20+3 = 11]
Running heedless of your own health, you stumble over an exposed root you didn't see...
Sonadora: Reflex save [1d20+4 = 5]
Sonadora gasps and puts her hands out in front of her.
You stumble and trip, rolling along the ground as you land among the trees!
Among the trees, you spot William playing a gruesome tug of war against a scrawny, disheveled wolf. Attracted by the smell of the paw strapped to the end of the stick, it looks as though the wolf may be desperate for sustenance. Aaron looks on the scene from against a nearby tree, tears streaming down his face as Kate stands to the side with a bundle of small rocks held in her arms.
Sonadora blinks.
Kate: Hey, wolf! Get away from 'im!
Sonadora: William, let him have it.
William looks up with surprise and lets go of the stick.
Sonadora grabs William and shoves him behind her.
The wolf growls and tears the stick aside, tossing it to the ground and baring its teeth.
Sonadora: Wild Empathy [1d20+3 = 19]
Sonadora coos at the wolf while slowly opening her bag, never taking her eye off the wolf.
Sonadora: Protect the children, Vida.
Vida barks in agreement.
Sonadora reaches into her pack and takes out a bit of her rations and tosses it at the wolf.
The wolf cautiously sniffs at the food you've tossed it and takes a bite.
You notice as it walks towards the food that it's limping, one of it's front paws torn at the knee joint.
Sonadora motions for the children and Vida to get back on the trail.
Sonadora: I'm going to try to heal this. Keep heading home and have Vida stay with you.
The wolf growls at them as they move, its eyes still hungry.
Sonadora reaches into her pack and tosses more food to the wolf.
The wolf eases its stance and chews at the food once more, whimpering softly.
The kids and Vida slowly back off into the woods, keeping their eyes on the wolf.
Sonadora gets ready to cast her spell.
Sonadora grumbles, "Was probably that hunter."
As you chant, the wolf eyes you curiously but without malice, the words of nature seemingly calming it further.
Sonadora casts Speak with Animals and kneels before the wolf, offering more food.
The wolf whines, its words forming in your mind.
The wolf: You protect your pack well. I thank you for the food.
Sonadora smiles at the wolf.
Sonadora: Thank you and you're welcome. I only wish I had more to offer.
Sonadora: May I tend your wound?
The wolf: But one from your pack... he uses trickery and wastes. You let him run loose?
Sonadora: He will be punished.
Sonadora nods.
The wolf growls her pleasure.
The wolf: I could offer you and your pack a deal.
Sonadora cautiously raises and eyebrow.
Sonadora: What would that be?
The wolf: I have a den to the south of here - if you could bring me some food, I can be vigilant for information on the member of your pack - and anything else I might find.
Sonadora grins and chuckles.
The wolf wags her tail.
Sonadora: That is acceptable, but if you harm one of my pack that is unacceptable.
The wolf pants loudly.
Sonadora nods.
The wolf: Of course. Consider your pack my allies so long as our deal exists.
The wolf: Except for that one...
The wolf growls, baring her teeth.
Sonadora: If he apologizes, would this be acceptable?
The wolf: Only if I can take his paw in exchange...
Sonadora shakes her head.
Sonadora: No.
Sonadora: How about he helps me tend your wound? A paw for a paw so to speak?
The wolf: That seems... acceptable.
Sonadora: I shall return in a moment
Sonadora smiles.
The wolf: I'll await you in my den... but first, let me give you some information for the food you've given me.
Sonadora: Thank you.
The wolf: There is a forboding scent in the wind. Something smells... off.
The wolf sniffs loudly.
Sonadora: The hunter?
Sonadora smells the air as well.
The wolf: No. He smells filthy. But not off.
Sonadora frowns.
Sonadora: I saw tracks earlier. I lost the trail though.
The wolf pants, her mouth hanging wide open.
The wolf: I can't say much for tracks. I can only follow smells.
Sonadora carefully reaches forwards and pets the wolf gently.
Sonadora: I thank you for your information and your friendship. I shall return as soon as possible. I always keep my promises.
The wolf wags her tail and begins to limp to the south.
Sonadora stands up and notes the area, scratching a mark on the largest tree by the trail.
The wolf says, "I will be waiting..." which trails off into a few yips and barks.
Sonadora sighs.
Sonadora hurries to catch up with the children.
Kate has her hand over Aaron's mouth, keeping him from making any noise, though tears still stream down his face.
Kate: Is it gone?
Sonadora: No need to be frightened anymore.
Sonadora glances at William and frowns.
William: Wowee! That was a BIG wolf!
Sonadora: You will come with me.
William: Aw, but... where?
Sonadora: Now.
William: Are we going...
William: Aw...
Aaron: 'dora! I'm bleeding!
Sonadora frowns and inspects Aaron.
Aaron holds up his forearm to show you a scrape with bits of dirt and tree bark still sticking to it in parts.
Aaron sniffles.
Kate: Aw, it's justa scratch, Aaron! Don't be such a baby.
Sonadora: Out here, just a scratch is cause for concern, Kate.
Kate: Phooey, I get scratches all the time.
Aaron sticks his tongue out at Kate.
Sonadora pulls out a clean strip of cloth and casts Create Water on it.
Sonadora: Heal [1d20+7 = 17]
You clean Aaron's cut to the best of your ability, careful not to hurt him too much.
Aaron sniffles.
Aaron: 'tankoo 'dora.
Sonadora smiles at Aaron.
Sonadora: You're welcome. That should be fine now.
You notice over your shoulder that Kate and William are looking at you in awe.
William: Wowsa! I'd never seen you do magic up close before!
Sonadora glances at William and nods.
William: Can you teach me that?
Kate: And me!
Aaron sniffles and clings to your hand.
Sonadora ties a clean rag around Aaron's arm and puts the dirtied one away.
Sonadora: That would depend entirely on you, William, but I will answer no.
William: Aw why not? Just... hafta... y'know...
William wiggles his fingers around, trying to mimic your motions.
Sonadora stands up and brushes off her knees...
William: Pazow! Right?
Sonadora: You must first learn to respect nature, and be at peace with yourself. You have neither. Now come along.
William: Aw, phooey.
William sulks, but follows you.
Sonadora: Remain here for a moment with Vida - Kate, Aaron.
Kate: So, didja kill the wolf? Didja?
Sonadora: Killing is almost never necessary.
Sonadora: In fact, William will help me gather food for the wolf, then take it with to to apologize for his behavior to the wolf. And, he will help me heal the wolf's injury.
Sonadora glares at William as if daring him to disagree.
William: Phooey. Alright.
Sonadora folds her arm and stares at William.
William: But what'm *I* s'pposeda bring for a wolf? I can't catch anything!
William: Why don'tcha bring it food or whatever some *other* time.
William grins craftily.
William: Besiiiiides. 's getting late.
William: Shouldn't we be gettin' home?
Sonadora: We're going to catch a rabbit, and we're going to do it now because the wolf is starving. Next time, it won't settle for scraps, it'll want you.
Sonadora: And next time, you should consider that before wandering out here to play a terrible trick on the townspeople
Sonadora glares at William.
William: Hmph.
William mumbles something about being foiled.
Sonadora: Kate, Vida will take you and Aaron home. Quickly. Tell your parents I will bring William later, and if it isn't until late or tomorrow not to worry.
Sonadora nods to Vida
Vida barks.
Sonadora: Survival [1d20+9 = 23]
You and William set several snares around the area and wait for a while, checking the traps periodically.
GM: Time [1d4 = 1]
After only an hour, you find three coneys trapped in the snares.
Sonadora: Nature, William, must always be respected because it is much stronger than you and will always win if it feels threatened.
Sonadora nods and gathers the rabbits.
William: Even mud?
Sonadora rolls her eyes behind William's back.
Sonadora: Here.
William: An' what about really ugly nature? Like... like... BUGS?
Sonadora hands William a rabbit to carry.
William accepts the rabbit.
Sonadora sighs.
William: Wooow, you're really good at catchin' stuff!
Sonadora: There are millions of bugs and how many of you?
William: Oh, um...
William: One?
Sonadora: Think about the answer before you ask your questions.
Sonadora kneels down and searches for the wolf's den.
You spot a rise to the south that might conceal a cave of some sort.
Sonadora points out the area to William and heads in that direction, her staff at ready.
Sonadora: Stay behind me
As you get in front of the cave, the wolf limps out sniffing at the air.
William: Wow... she's BIG!
William: I mean...
William zips up.
Sonadora holds up her finger against her mouth.
William nods silently.
Sonadora kneels in front of the wolf and offers the rabbits.
William points questioningly at his rabbit and then the wolf.
Sonadora nods to William.
Sonadora: Stay close.
William creeps out with you and drops the rabbit by yours.
The wolf steps out and sniffs at the rabbits, then drags them inside.
The wolf barks its thanks, it's tail wagging.
Sonadora: We shall wait until she returns and clean her wound.
The wolf comes back out slowly, then sits in front of its den.
Sonadora smiles at the wolf and edges closer, cooing.
William sticks close to you, his eyes wide as saucers.
The wolf presents her paw to you for inspection.
Sonadora gently and carefully pulls out a small rag and casts create water on it.
Sonadora: Heal [1d20+7 = 24]
After cleaning and dressing the wound, it looks like the wolf is safe from infection and can even walk without a limp, but only magical Healing can restore her to her full potential.
The wolf barks her thanks once more, and hops on the paw experimentally.
Sonadora shows William the work and explains to him the importance of clean water and clean bandages.
William nods mutely, clearly in awe of what's happening in front of him.
Sonadora rustles the wolf behind the ears and invites William to do the same, still keeping an eye out.
Sonadora: Let her smell your hand first.
Sonadora watches intently.
William cautiously pets the wolf, letting her sniff at his hand first, and then mumbles his apologies before retreating behind you.
The wolf sits on her haunches and lets her tongue loll out.
Sonadora smiles approvingly at William and pets the wolf goodbye before slowly rising.
The wolf retreats to her cave, and you can hear the sound of an eagerly anticipated meal as you leave.
William: Woooooooooow....
Sonadora ruffles Williams hair.
William: That was so... AWESOME!
William flails his arms about.
Sonadora: What did you learn?
William: Wait'll I tell Kate I was petting a real wolf!
Sonadora smiles and leans on her staff.
William: She'll be so jealous her face'll turn the color of her HAIR!
William: Oh, um...
Sonadora frowns.
William calms down.
William: I, um, learned to 'spect nature?
William: And... that wolves are awesome.
William grins widely.
Sonadora sighs and rolls her eyes.
Sonadora: Come along then, scamp.
William: Aw... back home?
Sonadora: Yes
William sighs loudly.
William: Yes'm.
Sonadora walks quickly.
You make it back to the Ruhlin's Farm in about two hours and find Michael working outside, chopping lumber.
Michael: Well! If it isn't Sonadora and William. Hello!
Sonadora waves to Michael and points William in the direction of the water pump.
Michael wipes some sweat from his brow as he puts down the axe.
Michael: Hello, lass!
Sonadora: Wash your hands and face before going inside, William.
Michael shoos William with an added command to do as you tell him.
Sonadora smiles at Michael and nods her hello.
Michael: Aaron and Kate were telling me everything you'd done. Quite the afternoon.
Sonadora chuckles.
Sonadora: They're good kids.
GM: A local farmer, Michael has brown hair and eyes and stands at almost 6 feet tall with the strong frame of someone born into a life of hard labor. He has an easy look about him, and though he's slow to smile you've known him long enough to know that it's just his way. He prides himself on hard-work and simplicity.
Michael: Michael is married to Beth, and the two of them have three kids - William, Aaron, and Kate. All of them live on their farm, where they provide the village with fruits, vegetables and milk.
Sonadora checks to make sure William is out of range before leaning towards Michael.
Michael kneels down to listen to you.
Sonadora: Sir, I'd keep them close to the farm for a few days. Something is not right in the forest.
Michael: Huh. I'll definitely *try*.
Michael: Maybe if I just give 'em more chores...
Sonadora: It's important.
Sonadora nods.
Michael: Oh? You look worried, lass.
Michael: Something happen out there?
Sonadora: There's been a hunter, though that's not too unusual. I did find a trail though. Something off. And the animals have warned me as well.
Sonadora: Whatever it is, it's big.
Michael: Hmm... actually, I had something to tell *you* as well.
Michael: I can't say much for the animals'n all that... that's for you... but the hunter...
Sonadora listens intently.
Michael: Was he a dark-haired fella? Big, broad shouldered an' mean looking?
Sonadora nods.
Michael: Aye, he's big enough to have ogre blood in him, *I* think. But anyways...
Michael: I was in town taking some produce to Markham, and happened to hear that big fella talking about some midget with a wolf interferin' with his huntin'.
Sonadora grins.
Michael: He was in his drink, so I didn't think much of it... but you must've done a number on 'im.
Michael: He was yellin' at anyone't'd listen.
Sonadora: Aye, that was me. Was mistreatin' a wolf. Just kept him occupied for a bit.
Sonadora: He got off easy.
Michael: Well, thought I'd warn ya - he said he was gonna talk to "the guy in charge of this hole."
Michael: I figure he musta meant Garret.
Sonadora shrug.
Sonadora: Thank you for the warning though.
Michael nods slowly.
Michael: He seemed pretty angry - you may wanna watch your back out there in the woods.
Sonadora Always.
Michael stands up, towering over you.
Sonadora offers her hand to Michael.
Michael takes your hand in his and grasps it tightly in a show of friendship.
Michael: We're always appreciative of what ya do for the town, Sonadora. Don't let anything happen to ya.
Sonadora blushes and nods before waving farewell.
Michael waves at you before he resumes his woodchopping.
Sonadora whistles for Vida.
Vida runs up to you from around the house, his tail wagging.
Sonadora scratches Vida behind the ears.
Sonadora: Come on, boy, let's head home.
As you walk into town, you notice the sun nearing the horizon.
Sonadora: We'll sleep home tonight, Vida, then restock on supplies before we head back out tomorrow.
Sonadora goes to bed after a hard day, Vida curled up nearby.
END SESSION

Chat log started at 17.5.2007 / 23:13:17
Sonadora stretches.
Sonadora folds her arms behind her head and stares up at her ceiling, rubbing Vida at the end of the bed with her toes.
The light's streaming in, the breeze is fresh, and Vida is nuzzling your toes.
Sonadora sighs and sits up, grabbing her tunic and pulling it on.
Sonadora pulls on her pants and wraps her shawl around her waist in a skirt-like fashion. Next, she ties up her boots and then begins her morning routine.
Vida licks himself clean as he watches Sonadora get ready.
Sonadora grabs her pack and quarterstaff and leaves the house.
Sonadora scratches Vida on the head and glances about.
Sonadora: Let's head to Sintilya's. I need to get a firs taid kit.
You cross Sundown, passing over the slow-running waters of the Cedar River and reach the small temple dedicated to Oghma and Lathander, which also doubles as Sintilya Foxblood's establishment and home.
Sonadora glances about the temple.
Sonadora: Hello? Sintilya?
The temple is a small circular stone building with open doors and a few windows. Just inside you see a small marble altar with a golden sun and a silver book emblazoned on its sides.
Sintilya Foxblood: Hmm? Who is it?
Sonadora: Sonadora and Vida.
Sintilya Foxblood steps out from one of the doors that leads to the personal areas of the temple.
Sonadora: Though Vida's outside, I promise
Contrary to what her name might suggest, Sintilya Foxblood is a kind, reserved individual who serves as the town's herbalist and primary advisor to Garret Arahnrod. She is responsible for keeping records of important happenings in the town, and has been for many years. Her appearance is that of an older half-elf with fair skin and long blue-black hair tied back into a pony tail. Her hazel-green eyes are surrounded by small wrinkles and her mouth is lined by small laugh lines.
Sintilya adventured with Molly Arahnrod many years ago and knows more about the history of the town than anyone else. Sintilya is also responsible for teaching anyone who's interested, particularly reading. She pays respects to Oghma daily, though she's never shown any aptitude for clerical magics. It's said that when she adventured in years past she held mighty arcane energies at her command, but noone has seen anything to suggest that this was true.
Sintilya Foxblood: Oh! Hello!
Sintilya Foxblood smiles.
Sonadora grins mischievously.
Sintilya Foxblood: I appreciate the courtesy, Sonadora.
Sintilya Foxblood: So what brings you here today? Had I sent you on an errand for me?
Sintilya Foxblood pulls a small ledger from a pocket in her robes and flips through it quietly.
Sonadora shakes her head.
Sonadora: Nay. Actually I am interested in purchasing a first aid kit if you have one.
Sintilya Foxblood: Right, nothing in here - so... ahh! A first aid kit?
Sonadora nods.
Sintilya Foxblood: Let me check my stores, I'm sure I have something that would suit you.
Sintilya Foxblood opens a cabinet and begins to look through the shelves contained therein.
Sintilya Foxblood: Ahh, yes. I have one right here.
Sonadora smiles happily.
Sintilya Foxblood pulls out a small satchel that can be easily attached to your belt. It's marked with the sign of Ilmater, god of healing.
Sonadora: It's perfect.
Sintilya Foxblood: Great - that'll be 50 gold pieces.
Sonadora winces.
Sonadora: How about I work off a piece and pay for the rest?
Sintilya Foxblood: Well, I can always use more herbs if you should happen across any in the forest.
Sonadora nods.
Sonadora: I shall be heading out again today. I shall keep an eye out and return to town in a day or two? Can you hold it for me?
Sintilya Foxblood: Of course - you can purchase the kit when you return.
Sintilya Foxblood: Hmm... and, come to think of it...
Sintilya Foxblood: Could you, perhaps, keep your eyes and ears open for a wagon coming through? I'm a bit worried that I haven't seen it, and any information would be valuable to me.
Sonadora smiles.
Sonadora: Of course.
Sonadora nods to Sintilya and leaves the temple.
Sonadora rubs Vida behind the ears.
Sonadora: Let's get breakfast in the market and see if we can find Garret. He may have some work needed also.
As you leave the temple, a tall blonde man waves to you from in front of the house to the north.
Sonadora notices the man and head towards him
Garret Arahnrod: Sonadora! And Vida, too, of course. Hey!
Garret Arahnrod bows somewhat awkwardly, with a sheepish grin.
Sonadora: Speak of the man.
Garret Arahnrod: How're you two doing?
Sonadora chuckles.
Sonadora: We are well, though it's been a long few days. Bit of trouble in the forest.
Garret appears to be far too young to be the leader of the town, but he's been forced into the role ever since his mother died 2 years ago. Inducted into the ways of the priests of Lathander, god of Renewal, since his childhood, he's already begun to grow into his position.
Garret's inexperience is clear on his bright, young face - even his copper-blonde hair looks like it was forced into a semblance of order rather than falling that way on its own. He wears the robes appropriate to his station - red, yellow and orange - though he looks a bit uncomfortable in them. Fortunately, he stands tall enough that even as inexperienced as he seems, his presence is impossible to avoid. Though he hasn't grown into his frame quite yet, when he does he will probably be, if not a giant among men, certainly an imposing presence.
Garret Arahnrod: Some of that trouble is what I wanted to talk to you about!
Sonadora nods.
Sonadora: The hunter.
Garret Arahnrod: Exactly - the fellow came into the Chamber yesterday while I was listening to the townsfolk.
Garret Arahnrod: He said you had interfered unjustly, attacked him without reason, and had assaulted his hunting dog.
Garret Arahnrod: Is that true?
Sonadora ponders and shrugs.
Sonadora: I trapped him in some vines for awhile.
Sonadora: Does that count?
Garret Arahnrod nods somewhat vaguely.
Garret Arahnrod: And his dog?
Sonadora: Well, the dog was trapped as well. I figured it was better than hurting them and it gave me a chance to free the wolf cub.
Garret Arahnrod: So there *was* no assault, then?
Sonadora thinks about it for a moment.
Sonadora: I believe the dog may have suffered. Vida does not like to be attacked.
Garret Arahnrod nods, a slight frown playing across his lips.
Garret Arahnrod: I thought it might be something more like that than his story.
Sonadora shrugs.
Sonadora: He should be more respectful of the creatures he hunts.
Garret Arahnrod: Well, I dismissed him and his complaint on account of the work you do for the town.
Garret Arahnrod: But he did *not* take that well at all - he stormed towards Markham's tents screaming profanities the whole way.
Sonadora: He is a dangerous man.
Garret Arahnrod nods in agreement.
Sonadora: There is another danger in the forest also, Garret. Something wrong.
Garret Arahnrod: Ahhh, yes. The business with the tracks.
Sonadora: I am going to restock and see if I can track it. You may want to warn the people though, in case it attacks.
Garret Arahnrod: I sent a messenger north in the hopes that I could get someone to help us, but with such a lack of reliable information I'm not sure what to hope for. I will keep everyone abreast as information arrives though, thank you.
Garret Arahnrod: What did you see, if I might ask?
Sonadora peers quizically at Garret.
Sonadora: The tracks?
Garret Arahnrod nods.
Sonadora: Something large, taloned, and has scales.
Garret Arahnrod: So far, everyone who's tried tracking them had them disappear mysteriously. You?
Sonadora nods.
Sonadora: I found a strip of cloth though, with a scale inside.
Garret Arahnrod: Hmm... anything distinctive?
Sonadora shrugs.
Sonadora: It smelled terrible.
Garret Arahnrod: Hmm... I'm not sure what to make of that, but anything you learn is useful.
Sonadora nods farewell to Garret and continues on to the marketstand.
Garret Arahnrod waves to you and goes inside the Chamber of the Sun.
The market is abustle with townspeople. Not nearly as hectic as the square of a larger city, Sundown's Market nonetheless has its share of travellers and merchants selling their wares.
Sonadora: Stay close, Vida.
Sonadora heads over to Markham's tent and glances about for a familiar face.
Markham is the halfling owner of the food and drink stand at the Marketplace. Though not a lot of travelers pass through Sundown, the people get together every day to discuss events, trade goods, and enjoy each other's company. Markham is also responsible for organizing entertainment should any performers pass through the town. Normally he keeps his ear to the ground (made easier by his height, people like to point out), which makes him the go-to guy for the goings on of Sundown.
Markham stands at almost 3' tall with curly black hair. He has an easy smile that makes him a lot of friends, but which also conceals a shrewd business sense that often results in customers spending more than they bargained for. Nonetheless, Markham has always been very fair to everyone and has a reputation for honesty that makes him a boon to the town.
Markham Grintz stands on a chair and waves to you from behind a stand loaded down with bread and fruit.
Markham Grintz: Heeeeeey Sonadora!
Sonadora smiles and nods to Markham.
Sonadora: Good Morning.
Markham Grintz: Didn't expect you back in town so soon.
Markham Grintz wipes down a table using a wet rag he has slung over his shoulder.
Sonadora: Ran into some trouble. I'm actually about to head back out soon.
Markham's booth is less a building than an open-air tent. He has a large canvas set up over a set of tables and chairs, along with a long bar on wheels that he can drag about if necessary.
Markham Grintz: Ooh, trouble eh?
Markham Grintz: I bet I know something about that!
Sonadora: Oh?
Markham Grintz: I'll trade ya.
Markham Grintz winks at you.
Sonadora grin.
Sonadora: What do I have that you want?
Markham Grintz: Why, information of course!
Markham Grintz: What've you got?
Sonadora: There's something bad in the forest. Something big.
Markham Grintz: Ahh, yeah. Spooky, big, dangerous. We've been hearing that for a while. How about...
Markham Grintz: How about you gimme the juicy bits of your meeting with that dark-haired giant fella?
Sonadora frowns.
Markham Grintz: You didn't kick him in the jewels, did you?
Markham Grintz grins mischievously.
Sonadora: He's just a big bully, nothing more.
Markham Grintz: A big bully... you had Vida bite in the bits, maybe?
Sonadora shakes her head.
Sonadora: I just kept him tangled up for a bit while I freed the wolf cub.
Sonadora grin impishly.
Markham Grintz: There was a wolf cub, eh?
Sonadora: Hunter had him trapped inhumanely.
Markham Grintz: I knew you talked to the animals, I didn't know you did jobs for them, too!
Markham Grintz chuckles softly.
Sonadora grins.
Markham Grintz: Well, I guess that'll do for a story...
Markham Grintz: Next time bring me a better one, though!
Markham Grintz tosses a glass into the air, catches it behind his back, and starts to clean it.
Sonadora chuckles.
Sonadora: I'll consider it.
Markham Grintz: Well, I saw the guy here last night. He was well in his drinks - the cheap stuff of course - and had a talk with some folk that looked sorta like you do when you haven't been back in town for a long while.
Markham Grintz: Smelled like you do at those times, too.
Markham Grintz winks at you.
Sonadora glares.
Sonadora: I always smell good.
Sonadora folds her arms across her chest.
Markham Grintz laughs loudly!
Markham Grintz: That's only 'cause you can't smell yourself after you've been sleeping with a wet wolf for a month!
Markham Grintz: Heeheehee.
Sonadora: I bathe!
Markham Grintz: But does Vida?
Markham Grintz glances pointedly at Vida.
Sonadora: I keep her clean too.
Markham Grintz chuckles.
Sonadora scratches Vida behind the ears.
Markham Grintz: Fine, fine, fine... the *point* was that these guys were woodsmen.
Markham Grintz: I'd never seen them in town before, but then again, it was hard to tell what they looked like under all the grime.
Sonadora frowns.
Sonadora: I wonder why they're here.
Markham Grintz: You might ask around and see if anyone else saw them, but all I saw was them talking to the big fella.
Sonadora nods.
Sonadora: Thank you.
Markham Grintz: By the way...
Markham Grintz looks around cautiously.
Markham Grintz: You haven't talked to Daisy about me, have you?
Markham Grintz looks sheepish.
Sonadora glances about curiously.
Sonadora: Was I supposed to?
Sonadora grin.
Markham Grintz: No, no, not really... I just thought, well, since you two run in similar circles- her being a woodsman back in the day, that maybe... nah, nevermind.
Markham Grintz blushes before turning away to wipe a plate.
Sonadora: I can speak with her if you'd like.
Sonadora grins knowingly.
Markham Grintz: I worry about her, after the accident and all...
Sonadora nods.
Markham Grintz coughs into his towel, hiding his face.
Sonadora: She's lonely.
Markham Grintz: Huh, I dunno about that. She won't give anyone the time of day!
Markham Grintz: I think it's all that time in the woods, personally. But she sure is a sight!
Markham Grintz gives a long whistle.
Sonadora: I need to run though. Could I order a rations fill and a bit of meat?
Markham Grintz: Oh, sure thing.
Sonadora tries to hide her grin.
Markham Grintz: I'll put it on your tab.
Sonadora: Thank you.
Sonadora tosses some of the meet to Vida.
Sonadora stows the rest of the food in her back.
Vida bites into the meat with gusto!
Sonadora nods farewell to Markham and heads out towards the forest.
Sonadora: Spot [1d20+3 = 20]
GM: Hide [1d20+8 = 10]
GM: Hide2 [1d20+8 = 27]
As you pass a particularly dense copse of trees, you spy a person ducked behind some foliage, a bolt already set on his crossbow, which he slowly raises to point at you.
END SESSION