We have but a few moments before Birdfoot, leader of the Steel Hawks sizes us up and directs 3 hawks under his control to attack us. These fell creatures cause great discomfort, but still I won’t attack them. I instead (sometimes unsuccessfully) try to duck and dodge them. Although, so I’m not merely a helpless target, I cast Bull’s Strength on Aakpesh. Let him deal with this horrid smiler, Birdfoot.

It takes a good deal of work and pain, but we are able to rid the world of Birdfoot. On him and after searching through their lair, we find and claim money, a white access card, a masterwork crossbow and 7 +1 glowing bolts, some silverdiscs, a battery, a scroll of soundburst, and a wand of grease (11 charges).

Since we’ve let some of the orcs live and have taken down the smiler, I’d wager that our “scrapworth” has increased (it has by 2, to a total of 4). More importantly, we’ve solidified a secret but perhaps powerful alliance with Sevroth Slaid, who will surely retake control of the Steel Hawks now.

I, like the others, am quite depleted though. We decide to fortify this lair, and rest. Upon waking, I feel as though I’d communed with Sarenrae in my sleep and that perhaps she has granted me greater abilities to heal and do good in this world of evil (level 5! woo!).

XP: 300, and will need to save again vs. nano ants, have extra knowledge bonus