Group 4: The Beginning

[EricStratton]

Despite your various backgrounds and races, the five of you have at one time or another trained at the adventurer's guild in the town of Fallcrest. Whether you knew of him beforehand or not, while training at the adventurer's guild you have come to respect and care for the school's headmaster - Douven Staul.

One Spring day he summons one of his star pupils, Sagar Redbeard, to his office.

"Sagar, my boy. I have been called away on urgent business. A former associate of mine in Winterhaven has requested my help and I must go. I need you to keep the younger Holy students inline while I'm gone."

Upon seeing Sagar's worried look, he continues "Don't worry. It'll only be for a couple days." With a smile he dismisses Sagar.

That is the last anyone has seen of Douven Staul for the past three weeks.

Sagar put the call out to Douven's star students, past and present. Four students quickly reported to Sagar - Rend, Jagged, Cilene Moonshadow, and Mazirith.

"I'm worried about Master Staul. During my prayers I had a vision. Master Staul was surrounded by a darkness that seemed to be reaching for him. I know he went to Winterhaven. That's where we need to go."

The four others quickly agree trusting in the guidance of the gods, and you set off.

[EricStratton]

You are on the King's Road (although there has been no king in these parts in living memory), traveling west (coming from the right side of the map) nearing Winterhaven.

The wind in your face is cool and comfortable. The road beneath your feet is level. An occasional ancient cobblestone peeks through the dirt road, indicating decades of neglect. You notice footprints leading up and down the road, many of which were made by small, clawed feet.

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

What's your traveling order?

[noptov52]

I imagine Rend would be in the lead, since he's all scout like. Jagged is content to walk in whatever order the group prefers.

[Quervo]

"The King's Road, ahh yes, I seem to remember this road vaguely," Mazirith says. "It was named for King Avinath, though this was many centuries before the rise and fall of the Kindoms of Nerath." (History 17+11+4 = 32 including memory of a thousand lifetimes.)

Mazirith always seems to remember little tidbits if ancient history though rarely are they truly useful.

Start Maz at R7, normally he will travel towards the center of the group.

[Sagar]

Sagar likes to be in the front of things also.. but,because he is so loud in his chain, he usually ends up with rearguard. So put me in the rear.

"Hey guys, check out these tracks? Can anyone identify them?"

I expect they will be natural (+3) in origin but just in case I'll look at them (religion+7 for undead or immortal, Arcana+7 for elemental, fey or shadow)

[EricStratton]

Sagar bends down and looks at the tracks. He doesn't have much experience with this sort of thing but he recognizes these immediately (18 + 3 > 20) as kobold tracks. And they look fresh.

[Shiz]

Unless I say otherwise, Rend in his animal form when outside and not near a town, village or city - usually as a brown panther. 50% of the time he will be in front of the party. 10% of the time he will be in the rear. Then 30/30 he will be above or below (north or south in this case).

As GM, if you want to determine where he is at any point in time, feel free to roll (1-10 front, 20 back, 11-15 "below", 15-19 "above") and place him accordingly when an encounter starts. He will always be scouting and sniffing around, looking away from the party.

If you don't want that job, then right now he is at about L5 trying to figure out the tracks (Perc and Nature).

Indoors, I cannot give a rule of thumb.

[Quervo]

When Maz sees various people stop to examine the tracks he draws his sword and keeps an eye open...

perception +6

[EricStratton]

Mazirith doesn't notice anything (9+6) but Rend sniffs the air (18+9 > 20) and suddenly stands still. His hair stands on end and he starts to growl looking deep into the southern woods. During the time the group has spent with Rend they have learned this particular combination of behaviors is his way of saying "Ambush!"

/ooc Not exactly sure how Rend communicates while in beast form. Feel free to come up w/ something else.

[Shiz]

/ooc that works. If you want to PM me when he senses something I can play it up a bit.

Rend will move south along the edge of the woods and enter them at O11, ready to attack any kobold he finds there, assuming you meant the woods immediately south of the road and not the ones southwest.

I assume from the Group 3 game that those forest hexes provide concealment and are difficult terrain.

[EricStratton]

Realizing that they've been spotted a number of small creatures Sagar recognizes as Kobolds spring into view from the north, south, and west and begin to move toward you. With a shriek, the small humanoids attack.

Round 1:

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Initiative:

Cilene (27)
Maz (21)
Sagar (19)
Rend (16)
Kobold 1 (7)
Kobold 2 (7)
Kobold 3 (7)
Kobold 4 (7)
Kobold 5 (7)
Jagged (7)
Kobold 6 (6)
Kobold 7 (6)
Kobold 8 (6)

[Zyzzyx]

(oooh... another adventure to read! Oh, and look... red-shirt kobolds! ;))

[Shiz]

Round 1:

Rend moves to N10 and then charges (need at least 2 unimpeded squares directly towards the target) Kobold 5 with a Pounce (beast form), +6 vs REF, d8+4, Hit: target grants CA to the next attack before the end of my next turn, using the boulder at K9 as cover from the other kobolds.

[Lycos]

Who has the "Scream like a little girl" power? :lowlol:

Ok, I'll shut up now. :mrgreen:

[Sagar]

Sagar draws his axe as he moves to R9 (to give flanking opportunities to others..hint hint). I'll attack Kobold7 with Righteous Brand (Greataxe: +5 attack, 1d12+5 damage, on hit, +3 to hit to Jag if he attacks this target).

[Quervo]

With a wave of Mazirith's hand a flare of Arcane energy "MARKS" his target. Then moves forward as his longsword burst out in Greenflame and strikes at a kobold.

Minor action - Aegis of Shielding on Kobold 7
Move action - Maz moves from P7 to P9
Standard Action - (At-will) Uses Greenflame Blade d20 + 7, (12+7= 19) vs AC
damage 1d8+4, (4+4= 8)
(dont know if you are making the dice rolls or if we are, provided both options)

[Shiz]

Looks like Sagar gets CA! Poor Kobold 7...

[noptov52]

/me twiddles his thumbs with his dubious initiative ;)

[Moonshadow]

/ooc shesh I leave the house for dinner and kobolds attack!

Magic Missile on the kobold in P2.

[Sagar]

Moon's Magic Missle Makes its Debut! Film at 11.

[Quervo]

dumb question, how do you get access to the map making program you guys are using?

[Sagar]

dumb question, how do you get access to the map making program you guys are using?

Access to see or access to make maps?

You should be able to see it anytime.

To get access to make maps - Talk to Dinbin. He made the program.

[Moonshadow]

Moon's Magic Missle Makes its Debut! Film at 11.

Seriously how else can you start :) If it's not an AD&D rule it should be!

[EricStratton]

Round 1:

Excited to start her first fight Cilene launches a Magic Missile from her hand with a flourish. Unfortunately her rustiness shows as it misses Kobold 7 badly (2+5-2 (cover) vs REF).

With an eye also towards Kobold 7, Mazirith forms a link between himself and the beast, marking it as his target. He then moves through the woods and attacks the Kobold but it's able to dodge behind a tree and just avoid the attack (19-2 cover vs AC).

/ooc I'll do the rolling for now. I might switch to what Sagar's using in Group 3 which is to hand everyone 5 rolls and let you decide how and when to use them. But I'll let you know when I get tired of rolling.

Sagar lumbers through the trees to attack the same creature. He realizes he's been working on practice dummies at the adventure school for too long as his axe cuts nothing but the breeze (8+5-2 vs AC).

The party's pet panther glides south looking almost bored and in an instant launches itself at Kobold 5 who surprises the druid Rend by sidestepping his attack (4+6 vs REF).

/ooc Not that it mattered but where'd the +6 come from? I see +4 from WIS and +1 from charge. What am I missing?

Now the Kobolds strike!

/ooc I apologize for the crappy rolls. It's not how I wanted to start this, I swear. If you look at your INIT values you can see where all the 20s went. I'll update the map and continue this tomorrow. I'm not at a Windows box and the map tool doesn't seem to like Firefox tonight. Plus the DM is sleepy.

[Shiz]

/ooc does cover apply to melee attacks?

/ooc +6 is once again a residual of level 2 sheet GRR sorry.

[Quervo]

Cover (–2 Penalty to Attack Rolls): The target
is around a corner or protected by terrain. For
example, the target might be in the same square
as a small tree, obscured by a small pillar or a large
piece of furniture, or behind a low wall.

[EricStratton]

Round 1 con't:

Kobold 1 lets out a shrill cry and charges Rend to L9 stumbling on his way (6+5 vs 15) and missing.

Kobold 2, angry that Kobold 1 stole this thunder by charging first, moves to I11 and throws one of the three javelins he's carrying at Rend. His aim is true (16+4 vs 15), striking Rend in the side (4 dmg).

Kobold 3 moves to K2 and hurls one of his javelin at Jagged. His throw isn't nearly as good (4+4 vs 15) and the projectile lands well short of its target.

Kobold 4 steps around the rocks to L5 and also throws a javelin at Rend hitting (13+4 vs 15) the panther in its other side (4 dmg).

Kobold 5 shifts to L11 (minor action for Kobolds) flanking Rend between himself and Kobold 1. He attacks with his spear but was still off balance from his shift and misses the attack badly (3+6 vs 15).

Jagged...

Map: http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

[Shiz]

Jagged...


You see Rend's tail swishing nervously at his predicament.

[noptov52]

With a feral grin, Jagged brandishes his axe and charges a kobold.

/ooc Charge/move to L8 and use Howling Strike on Kobold 1. Charge requires the most direct path, but I thought there's an issue with moving diagonal by obstructions, in this case the trees. If there isn't, Jagged would be in M8.

/edit +1 to attack roll for charging, Howling Strike may be used in place of basic attacks when charging, 1[W] (1d12) + 1d6 + Str (5) on hit.

[Shiz]

/ooc you have to move to O6 first to line up your charge but you have plenty of Speed for that. If you attack from L8 you get +2 from flanking which is better than +1 from charging. Lastly, you could move to M10 and Great Cleave both of them, although I am not advocating that. I would recommend the flanking attack.

/ooc you will generally be reluctant to spend your encounter powers early, but in Group 3 we have found that it can be expeditious to even the numbers fast early on.

/ooc also remember that some of these might be minions which means if you hit them, they go down. Minions have 1hp.

[EricStratton]

Round 1 con't:

Jagged bursts around the trees his axe leading the way. He lands the first blow the day (8+8 vs AC) cutting Kobold 1 in two (8+3+5) getting some guts on Rend in the process. Jagged pulls his axe free of the dead kobold, splattering yet more blood on Rend, and roars victoriously (Roar of Triumph). Kobolds 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7 look over at the barbarian nervously unable to fully concentrate on what they're doing.

Kobold 6 bursts out of the northern trees with eyes on Mazirith. Realizing he's not fast enough to get to the Deva he detours to Q7, and brings his short sword down on Cilene but the blow is deflected (6+7 vs 15 AC) leaving her unharmed.

Kobold 7, lucky to have been unable to see the vicious dispatching of his bunkmate, attempts to shift out of his precarious position but is blocked by the trees. He steels himself for what's to come and swings his short sword at Mazirith (12+7 vs 19 AC) catching the swordmage squarely in the ribs (9 dmg).

Not entirely displeased with the way the battle is going Kobold 8 stays in the trees. He loads a gluepot into his sling and fires at Jagged. The jar full of an immobilizing substance breaks on the rocks nowhere near the large, angry shifter (5+6 vs 15 AC).

[EricStratton]

Round 2:

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Initiative:

Cilene (27)
Maz (21) (9 dmg, 22 left)
Sagar (19)
Rend (16) (8 dmg, 18 left)
Kobold 1 (7) (dead)
Kobold 2 (7) (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 3 (7)
Kobold 4 (7) (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 5 (7) (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Jagged (7)
Kobold 6 (6) (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 7 (6) (marked by Mazirith; -2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 8 (6)

--

Cilene...

[Shiz]

Round 2

Rend shifts to M11 to make it harder for Kobold 2 to flank him and attacks Kobold 5 with Grasping Claws (beast form), +4 vs REF, d8+4, hit: target is slowed until end of my next turn.

[noptov52]

Jagged pulls his axe free of the dead kobold, splattering yet more blood on Rend, and roars victoriously (Roar of Triumph).

/ooc If it is allowed

[noptov52]

Jagged glances at Rend "Come on kitty, you're fallin' behind already."

[Sagar]

Free Action: say, "Maz, shift north one to flank the other kobold and I'll shift south to reflank this one.

Shift south to flank Kobold7 and attack with Righteous Brand: +5 AC (flank and cover offset), d12+5 damage, Maz gets +3 to hit vs K7.

If K7 is dead, I'll shift 1 north and attack K6 and give +3 to hit to Cilene.

[Quervo]

Maz counter attacks Kobold 7 reigniting his longsword with green flame. Then steps closer to kobold 6 to help Celine.

Standard - Greenflame Blade +9(+7+2 flanking as maz goes before sagar) vs AC, 1d8+4 damage
move - Shift to P8
Minor - if K7 drops mark k6

Note K7 and K6 are affected by Roar -2AC till Jagged ends his turn

[Shiz]

Free Action: say, "Maz, shift north one to flank the other kobold and I'll shift south to reflank this one.

Shift south to flank Kobold7 and attack with Righteous Brand: +5 AC (flank and cover offset), d12+5 damage, Maz gets +3 to hit vs K7.

If K7 is dead, I'll shift 1 north and attack K6 and give +3 to hit to Cilene.

You are already flanking 7. You and Maz have him perfectly. Since Maz attacks first, you get the CA this round.

[Greebo]

You are already flanking 7. You and Maz have him perfectly. Since Maz attacks first, you get the CA this round.

/ooc I think he means for maz to flank 6 & 7 simultaneously

[Sagar]

Since I can't shift in difficult terrain, I will stay put to attack unless K7 is down. If so, I'll move to attack K6.

[Moonshadow]

Shift to (S7 if I can without provking an attack and S6 if I cannot) and cast Scorching Burst on Kobold 6

[EricStratton]

Round 2:

Cilene takes a quick step away from the kobold, shifting to S7, but the creature you now recognize as a Kobold Dragonshield doesn't let her get away that easily immediately moving to follow her (immediate reaction power allows it to shift after an adjacent enemy shifts away. Shift to R7).

Do you want to continue w/ your shot? Know that if you fire Scorching Burst at it you're now in the range of the burst (Burst 1). If you switch to Magic Missile and fire that, you'll suffer an opportunity attack.

[EricStratton]

Maz counter attacks Kobold 7 reigniting his longsword with green flame. Then steps closer to kobold 6 to help Celine.

Standard - Greenflame Blade +9(+7+2 flanking as maz goes before sagar) vs AC, 1d8+4 damage
move - Shift to P8
Minor - if K7 drops mark k6

Note K7 and K6 are affected by Roar -2AC till Jagged ends his turn
You can't shift to P8, it's difficult terrain. Would you like to move there and take the OA?

[Moonshadow]

Round 2:

Cilene takes a quick step away from the kobold, shifting to S7, but the creature you now recognize as a Kobold Dragonshield doesn't let her get away that easily immediately moving to follow her (immediate reaction power allows it to shift after an adjacent enemy shifts away. Shift to R7).

Do you want to continue w/ your shot? Know that if you fire Scorching Burst at it you're now in the range of the burst (Burst 1). If you switch to Magic Missile and fire that, you'll suffer an opportunity attack.

I'll swat at him with the Quarterstaff instead.

Bastard dog :(

[Quervo]

it didnt take my update ....

move - if k7 dies move to follow k6 (move into a position provide flanking)
minor - mark k6 if k7 dies

[EricStratton]

Round 2 (for real this time):

Cilene takes a quick step away from Kobold 6, shifting to S7, but the creature you now recognize as a Kobold Dragonshield doesn't let her get away that easily immediately moving to follow her (immediate reaction power allows it to shift after an adjacent enemy shifts away. Shift to R7). Cursing the dog, Cilene swings her quarterstaff at the critter. The kobold, still shaken by the barbarians wicked battle cry, is taken off guard and, despite her lack of weapons training, Cilene connects (13+3 vs AC-2 (Roar); 4 dmg).

Maz counter attacks Kobold 7 reigniting his longsword with green flame. His strike is true (11+9 vs AC-2 (Roar)) doing moderate damage (8 dmg).

Sagar attacks Kobold 7 with Righteous Brand. He hits (14+5 vs AC-2(Roar)) solidly (10 dmg) branding the kobold, granting Maz divine power against the beast (+3 attack roll against Kobold 7 until end of Sagar's next turn), and bloodying the monster.

Rend shifts to M11 and attacks Kobold 5 with Grasping Claws ripping into his target (11+4 vs REF-2 (Roar)) and removing most of its neck with one swipe (10 dmg, dead).

Kobold 2 watches Kobold 5 drop and then charges at Rend moving to L11 but he misses his attack (8+5 vs 15 AC).

Kobold 3 also charges but at Jagged. Moving to L7 he connects (18+5 vs 15 AC) but his spear does little damage (4 dmg).

Kobold 4 continues the assault on Jagged moving to L8. He jabs his spear and also hits (18+4 vs 15 AC) for minimal damage (4 dmg).

Jagged....

Cilene
Maz (9 dmg, 22 left; +3 atk against Kobold 7 until end of Sagar's turn)
Sagar
Rend (8 dmg, 18 left)
Kobold 1 (dead)
Kobold 2 (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 3
Kobold 4 (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 5 (dead)
Jagged (8 dmg, 23 left)
Kobold 6 (-2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 7 (18 dmg, bloodied; marked by Mazirith; -2 to all defenses until end of Jagged's turn)
Kobold 8

Map: http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

[noptov52]

/ooc damn kobolds, can't even be counted on to bloody me.

Jagged snorts at the kobolds "Aren't ya a bit runty for kobolds? Why, I almost feel bad cleaving you into bitty, bit sized pieces. Almost.

/ooc Great Cleave, str vs AC, 1d12 +5 (str) + 2 (+1 for each enemy in close burst 1)
/ooc If Jagged is bloodied, he will use longtooth shifting (minor action) as soon as possible (+2 damage till end of the encounter, +2 regen while bloodied)

[EricStratton]

Round 2 con't:

Jagged swings his greataxe around in a sweeping arc dispatching both kobolds (Kobold 3: 20+5 vs AC-2 (Roar); Kobold 4: 16+5 vs AC) in just the most brutal way imaginable (3: 12+7+6 (high crit); 4: 1+7; both dead).

B/c you got a crit you could Rampage and make an additional melee attack against something but no one is in range.

Note, the effects of Roar have ended.

Kobold 6 laughs at Cilene's physical abilities. He shifts to Q7 (minor) and then moves to P8 attacking Maz, a more worthy opponent. But it's the kobold that might not be worthy as his long sword hits a tree instead (4+7-2 (cover)+1 (mob attack) vs 19 AC).

Kobold 7 also attacks Maz. And he too finds the swordmage too much to handle (4+7+1 (mob attack)-2 (cover) vs 19+1 (Astral Majesty*) AC).

Kobold 8, starting to get a bit nervous, loads a pot of pitch in his sling, lights it with his standard issue Kobold Steel and Flint, and flings the flaming container at Jagged. It hits the barbarian but as luck would have it the jar bounces off Jagged's massive chest breaking harmlessly a few feet away (8+6 vs 15 AC).

End of Round 2.

*Astral Majesty - +1 to all defenses against bloodied creatures.

[EricStratton]

Round 3:

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Initiative:

Cilene
Maz (9 dmg, 22 left; +3 atk against Kobold 7 until end of Sagar's turn)
Sagar
Rend (8 dmg, 18 left)
Kobold 1 (dead)
Kobold 2
Kobold 3 (dead)
Kobold 4 (dead)
Kobold 5 (dead)
Jagged (8 dmg, 23 left)
Kobold 6
Kobold 7 (18 dmg, bloodied; marked by Mazirith)
Kobold 8

[Sagar]

Cilene, can you move up and take out Kobold 8?

If it is still alive, I'll attack Kobold7 with Righteous Brand: +5 AC (flank and cover offset), d12+5 damage, Maz gets +3 to hit vs K7

If K7 is dead, I'll loop around to P7 (5 steps rqd) to flank and attack K6 and give +3 to hit to Maz.

[noptov52]

If K7 is dead, I'll loop around to P7 (5 steps rqd) to flank and attack K6 and give +3 to hit to Maz.

Wouldn't that be six steps?

[Shiz]

Rend shifts into his humanoid form (minor, allows a free shift), shifting into N12. As he moves across the field (to G12, avoiding OA from Kobold 2), he yells to Jagged "I am going after the one in the trees. Cover me."

From G12 he throws a Storm Spike (+4 vs REF, d8+4 lightning dmg, if the target does not move at least 2 squares on it next turn, it takes 4 more lightning damage) at Kobold 8 to try and flush him out.

/ooc I don't know if monsters will know they should move to avoid the additional damage or not. The power is described as

A bolt of lightning spears your foe and charges the air around it. Sounds like the air might be crackling with electricity to some degree.

[Moonshadow]

Cilene moves to R6, Q6, P6, O6, N6, M5 and casts magic missle on K8

[Quervo]

Maz mumbles under his breath as his blade crackles with energy and attacks the kobolds around him.

minor mark K6
move - nothing
Standard - Encounter Power Lightning Clash
K7 - +4 Int att, +2 flank -2 cover, +4 Int vs AC 1d6 +4 damage
K6 - +4 Int att -2 cover, +2 att vs Ref, 1d6 +4 damage

[Sagar]

Wouldn't that be six steps?
Nope, only 5.

2 steps to R8.
1 step to R7 (difficult terrain applies only to the square entered, not left)
1 step to Q6
1 step to P7

[EricStratton]

Cilene moves to M5 and casts Magic Missle on Kobold 8. She just misses (9+5-2 (cover) vs REF) as the critter ducks behind a tree at the last second.

You can just tell me the spot you want to move to and I'll get you there w/o any OAs if I can.

I think the critter actually had cover twice. Once from the woods and once from the rocks between M5 and C7 but I'm not sure if that changes anything.

Also as a reminder, Magic Missile has a range of 20.

Maz mumbles under his breath marking Kobold 6 as his blade crackles with energy and attacks the kobolds around him with Lightning Clash. He swings at Kobold 7 and hits easily (14+7+2 (flank)-2 (cover)+3 (Righteous Brand) vs AC; 9 dmg) bringing the Kobold that much closer to death. Right as his blow lands lightning jumps from Kobold 7 striking Kobold 6 solidly (17+4-2 (cover) vs REF; 10 dmg)!

Assuming you're marking Kobold 6 w/ Aegis of Assault, that means Kobold 7 is no longer marked. Let me know if that wasn't your intention. Also the first hit w/ Lightning Clash gets the +3 bonus due to longsword proficiency. I'm not sure about the secondary hit, though. I'm going to say that it doesn't, that it's just INT vs REF.

Sagar attempts to brand Kobold 7 again with the mark of his god. His blow just misses, though (12+5-2 (cover)+2 (flank) vs AC).

Rend shifts into his humanoid form moving G12 and yells to Jagged "I am going after the one in the trees. Cover me." He then throws a Storm Spike at Kobold 8 which nails its target (14+4-2 (cover) vs REF; 9 dmg).

I'm going to say it does know it has to move. That seems to be the consensus online. Seems ppl use it to force mobs to take the dmg or risk OAs.

Kobold 2 looks around for the closest enemy. Spotting Jagged he charges to L9 hitting (10+5 vs 15 AC) but achieving only a flesh wound (4 dmg).

Jagged....

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

[Quervo]

I used Aegis of Shielding but yes, mark 6

[Moonshadow]

Cilene was confused by the battle, she was aiming for M7 and the security of her companions.

I'm sleeping in tomorrow so when initiative is rolled I'll be moving to M7 and repeating the magic missle attack on K8 again Hopefully dorkface will step away from the tree.

[noptov52]

Jagged executes a quick about face and charges into the trees, howling as he strikes at Kobold 6.

[Shiz]

Jagged executes a quick about face and charges into the trees, howling as he strikes at Kobold 6.

/ooc I don't know if you can charge through difficult terrain, but you can get a flanking bonus from P7. I just mention it as a reminder. Roleplaying a charge is more fun sometimes.

[EricStratton]

Round 3 con't:

Jagged executes a quick about face and charges into the trees, howling as he strikes at Kobold 6. As soon as he turns his back, though, Kobold 2 takes the opportunity to slash at him. Kobold 2's attack hits (15+4 vs 15 AC) leaving a scratch (4 dmg) but bloodying the Shifter. Jagged immediately appears to grow more savage and beast-like if such a thing is possible. He also appears to be healing himself right before your eyes (Longtooth Shifting (encounter, minor) - Until the end of the encounter, you gain a +2 bonus to damage rolls. In addition, while you are bloodied, you gain regeneration 2.)

I assume you'd want to use Longtooth Shifting at the first chance. If not, let me know.

Once he reaches O8, Jagged's swing hits Kobold 6 (13+7+1(charge)-2 (cover) vs AC) and while the branches and leaves take the brunt of the blow (9 dmg), the attack leaves Kobold 6 bloodied. Jagged taunts the kobold for being so weak and useless (Thaneborn Triumph - next attack against Kobold 6 gets +2 to attack roll).

Kobold 6 continues attacking Maz scoring a direct hit (20+8-2 vs 19+1 AC) for maximum damage (9 dmg) bloodying the swordmage.

Kobold 7 tries to replicate the results against Maz but fails miserably (4+8-2(cover) vs 19+1 AC).

Kobold 8 feels the electricity in the air and knows that staying put would be foolish. Before he scampers back through the trees to B5 he loads another firepot and flings it at Rend. The flaming cocktail smashes against the rocks in front of Rend saving him from the blast (5+6-2 (cover) vs 15 AC). Kobold 8 looks at his sling in astonishment vowing to get a new one if he gets out of this fight alive.

Note: I believe firing through the trees (for instance B5 to/from G12) grants superior cover to the target.

End of Round 3.

[EricStratton]

/ooc I don't know if you can charge through difficult terrain, but you can get a flanking bonus from P7. I just mention it as a reminder. Roleplaying a charge is more fun sometimes.
You can charge thru difficult terrain provided you have the speed necessary to do so.

[EricStratton]

Round 4:

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Initiative:

Cilene
Maz (18 dmg, 13 left, bloodied)
Sagar
Rend (8 dmg, 18 left)
Kobold 1 (dead)
Kobold 2
Kobold 3 (dead)
Kobold 4 (dead)
Kobold 5 (dead)
Jagged (16 dmg, 15 left, bloodied; +2 to dmg rolls until end of encounter and while bloodied gain regen 2)
Kobold 6 (19 dmg, marked by Mazirth, bloodied; next attack against it gets +2 to attack roll)
Kobold 7 (27 dmg, bloodied)
Kobold 8 (9 dmg)

Cilene...

You should probably move somewhere other than M7 as I believe firing at B5 from M7 gives the kobold superior cover.

http://img.skitch.com/20090329-q799fknfqanyfxd3kfmt6r1tak.jpg

[Shiz]

Round 4:

Rend shifts into panther form (minor) and moves to F5. He locks onto the slinger's eyes and attacks his mind with Cull the Herd (beast form), Range: 5, +4 vs WIL, 2d8+4, Hit: pull the target 3 squares.

[Quervo]

Attack K6 with Greenflame Blade

+7 +2 -2 = +7to hit
1d8+4 dmg

/ooc firing through cover provides cover to the target, firing out of cover into open ground does not provide cover to the target

[noptov52]

Jagged attacks Kobold 6 with Recuperating Strike.

[Sagar]

Minor: Healing word to Maz (surge + 1d6+3 HP)
Action: Righteous Brand on K7 (if it lives). +5 AC, 1d12+5 damage. +3 to hit to Maz.

If K7 is dead, Move to Q8 and use RB on K6 with +3 going to Jag.

[EricStratton]

To move things on a bit, I'm going to take Cilene's turn (sort of). If anyone feels I'm overstepping my duties, let me know.

Round 4:

Cilene decides to hold off on making any moves for a bit allowing her team to manipulate the battlefield some. (Delay until after Rend goes to, hopefully, take advantage of Cull the Herd.)

Maz attacks Kobold 6 with Greenflame Blade. He misses badly, though (2+7 vs AC).

Sagar speaks a quick Healing Word to Maz. Maz feels much better (16 HP healed, no longer bloodied). He attempts to continue his clerical duties with Righteous Brand but during his backswing his great axe gets caught in the branches of a tree leaving him with a silly look on his face (natural 1).

Meanwhile, on the other end of the battlefield, Rend shifts into panther form (minor) and moves to F5. He locks onto the slinger's eyes and successfully attacks his mind with Cull the Herd (18+4-2 vs Will). The kobold's head is filled with such a sense of doom that it literally scares him to death (18 dmg, dead).

Cilene...

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Maz (2 dmg, 29 left)
Sagar
Rend (8 dmg, 18 left)
Cilene
Kobold 2
Jagged (16 dmg, 15 left, bloodied; +2 to dmg rolls until end of encounter and while bloodied gain regen 2)
Kobold 6 (19 dmg, marked by Mazirth, bloodied; next attack against it gets +2 to attack roll)
Kobold 7 (27 dmg, bloodied)

[Quervo]

Free Action, Maz shouts "Cilene, Tie up to one in the open to keep it off us!"

[Moonshadow]

Mmmm, Kobold 2 with no cover. Come one fingers don't fail me now!

To switch things up a little we'll use Scorching Burst.

Also, you were not out of line and thank you for taking into account the impact of his move and the likelyhood of a change of decision.

[Shiz]

Our DM loves us. For now.

[EricStratton]

Round 4 con't:

Cilene does some finger wiggling and a bright orange ball of flame shoots out of her hand. The sphere nails the kobold dead in the chest (19+5 vs Will) blowing a hole clean through him (9 dmg, dead).

Jagged's wounds heal a bit (regen 2, 17 HP left, no longer bloodied, no longer regen'ing) and then he attacks Kobold 6. But he stumbles on a tree root, just managing to catch himself (natural 1).

I'm going to rule that this miss does not use up the +2 atk Kobold 6 has against it from Thaneborn Triumph.

Kobold 6, sensing that fate just managed to keep him alive, swings at Maz again connecting (16+7+1-2 vs 19+1 AC; 7 dmg).

Kobold 7 does the same. His results are different, missing Maz through the trees (11+7+1-2 vs 19+1 AC).

End of Round 4.

[EricStratton]

Round 5:

http://www.primeaxiom.com/rpgt/scene.asp?ID=6x8xkl7m8pel285jml6dsjfxfsh87i8i2dnqf dpkyoz8os3qwxglwnhcjpvn5b7q

Initiative:

Maz (9 dmg, 22 left)
Sagar
Rend (8 dmg, 18 left)
Cilene
Jagged (14 dmg, 17 left; +2 to dmg rolls until end of encounter)
Kobold 6 (19 dmg, marked by Mazirth, bloodied; next attack against it gets +2 to attack roll)
Kobold 7 (27 dmg, bloodied)

Maz....

[Shiz]

Round 5:

Rend lopes back to Cilene, shifts into two-legged form (N5) and raises the fur on Kobold 6 with a Storm Spike, +4 vs REF, d8+4 lightning dmg, if the target does not move at least 2 squares on it next turn, it takes 4 more lightning damage.

[noptov52]

Cursing his clumsy feet, Jagged steadies himself and attempts to repeat his attack ([recuperating strike]) on Kobold 6 with better results.

[Moonshadow]

Should he still be alive when I'm able to act - a magic missle on K6

[Quervo]

Maz will use Greenflame Blade again on K6

+7, 1d8+4

/ooc stupid question is adjacent concidered diaginal? IE is K6(pos P8) considered adjacent to K7(pos P9), If so greenflame blade does 1 fire dmg to foe adj to target if power hits. So far it hasnt affected anyone else.

n/m

Adjacent Squares: Two squares are adjacent if a
side or a corner of one touches a side or a corner of the
other. Two creatures or objects are adjacent if one of
them occupies a square adjacent to a square occupied
by the other.

[GravenStone]

Maz will use Greenflame Blade again on K6

+7, 1d8+4

/ooc stupid question is adjacent concidered diaginal? IE is K6(pos P8) considered adjacent to K7(pos P9), If so greenflame blade does 1 fire dmg to foe adj to target if power hits. So far it hasnt affected anyone else.

n/m

Adjacent Squares:
Two squares are adjacent if a
side or a corner of one touches a side or a corner of the
other. Two creatures or objects are adjacent if one of
them occupies a square adjacent to a square occupied

by the other.


/OOC By my reading, corner to corner would be diagonal, yes.

[Quervo]

yeah that is what i saw hwen i started looking into it as well. Unfortunatly i have not hit with greenflame blade with k6 and k7 adj yet

[EricStratton]

Round 5:

Maz attacks Kobold 6 with his Greenflame Blade (6+7+2 (Thaneborn Triumph)-2 (cover) vs AC) but misses.

Sagar....

[Sagar]

Action: Righteous Brand on K7 (if it lives). +5 AC, 1d12+5 damage. +3 to hit to Maz.

If K7 is dead, Move to Q8 and use RB on K6 with +3 going to Jag.

[EricStratton]

Sagar (18+5 vs AC) righteously brands Kobold 7 right in the face. The beast clutches his smoking muzzle, lets out a pitiful moan, and falls dead on the forest floor (11 dmg, dead). Sagar then moves to Q8 to help Jagged with his attack.

I assume that's what you'd do.

Rend lopes back to Cilene, shifts into two-legged form (N5) and raises the fur on Kobold 6 with a Storm Spike (11+4-2 (cover) vs Will) right to the top of his head (11 dmg).

Cilene fires a Magic Missile at Kobold 6 who ducks out of the way just in time (7+5-2 (cover) vs REF).

Cursing his clumsy feet, Jagged steadies himself and repeats his attack on Kobold 6 this time with better results in so far as that he didn't almost fall but his attack still misses (6+7 vs AC).

Kobold 6, beaten and bloodied, puts all of his strength into one last swing at Maz. But fate takes no pity and the swing is easily deflected (10+7-2 (cover) vs 19+1 AC). The kobold looks up at the brewing storm clouds and, knowing if he stays put he's a goner, tries to make a break for it hoping his armor will save him as it has in the past. As he turns to move to O5, Maz, Sagar and Jagged all take a swing at him.

Maz's swing misses (5+7-2 vs AC), as does Sagar's (5+5 vs AC). Just as the kobold thinks he's going to make it out into the open Jagged's axe comes crashing down on him (16+7 vs AC) dropping him before he gets a foot out of the woods (11 dmg, dead).

100 xp for each person for discovering the ambush and defeating the kobolds

[Quervo]

Woohoo, gots to love the fighter who cant hit the broad side of barn... (j/k I think it is funny i only hit 3 times all combat though)

Maz assesses the scene, "An ambush, by Kobolds, I dont remember them being so agressive before, lets see if they have anything on them..."

[Shiz]

Rend examines the slingers, grabbing a sling and any of those nasty pots they had. Does the DM have a count?

[EricStratton]

Woohoo, gots to love the fighter who cant hit the broad side of barn... (j/k I think it is funny i only hit 3 times all combat though)
Believe me, I know. Many of the swings you took had a >50% chance of hitting and you always managed to get a crappy roll. And then Sagar would pull a 16. :lowlol:

[Shiz]

Go go battledorf!

[Shiz]

Rend is going to spend a surge to heal up some.

[Quervo]

Maz will use what is needed to heal up.

[noptov52]

Jagged will ponder the feasibility of making a kobold hide cloak.

[Sagar]

Are there really storm clouds brewing? If so, how far from town are we?

I'll also do a quick check of K6 and K7 to look any kind of identifying information (papers, jewelry, coins with a sigil, pin, anything that may indicate they are part of an organized group) and loot.
I'll ask the group...
"Does anyone remember if it's normal for Kobolds to attack mid-day like this?" (Nature check?)

[Shiz]

My Nature is +9. I will search the blue shirted kobolds too.

"Those storm clouds, friend dwarf, were from my spell. I don't sense a weather change."

How many sling pots did I find when I searched the slingers?

[EricStratton]

Jagged will ponder the feasibility of making a kobold hide cloak.
You successfully skin one of the kobolds (after everyone has searched them thoroughly) (Nature vs 15 DC). It takes you about an hour. You'll need to bring it to a tanner/leatherworker in Winterhaven to be made into a cloak. It's going to be a bit stinky for a while (diplo -1 for a couple weeks at least while wearing it) but it should strike fear into any other kobolds you run into (+3 Intimidate to Kobolds while wearing it).

[EricStratton]

Are there really storm clouds brewing? If so, how far from town are we?

I'll also do a quick check of K6 and K7 to look any kind of identifying information (papers, jewelry, coins with a sigil, pin, anything that may indicate they are part of an organized group) and loot.
I'll ask the group...
"Does anyone remember if it's normal for Kobolds to attack mid-day like this?" (Nature check?)
You look around and realize the only storm clouds you saw this day were the ones created by Rend's Storm Spike power. They have, at this point, dissipated.

You don't find any sort of identifying information on the kobolds save for lines scraped into their hides. You believe they are kill counts.

But you do know that what Mazirith said is true - the kobolds in this area are not normally this aggressive or open in their attacks.

[EricStratton]

My Nature is +9. I will search the blue shirted kobolds too.

"Those storm clouds, friend dwarf, were from my spell. I don't sense a weather change."

How many sling pots did I find when I searched the slingers?
You also don't find any identifying marks. It almost seems that these kobolds were pretty thorough in guaranteeing there'd be no identifying marks.

You look at the slinger's bandolier and see three untied ropes. Looking around the battlefield you see three smashed pots - one glue and two incendiary. You realize he used all he had. You do grab his sling and belt pouch which has 20 bullets in it.

[Sagar]

I'll collect any weapons, then, if they are worth selling.

[Quervo]

"Did anyone happen to see any coin on these? If so do they appear to Local coinage or distant or unreconizable?"

"Rend you mind doing some dirty work? Lets take the heads and stake them behind these various stones. Don't want to scare other travellers, but lets let any others know these are no longer safe hunting grounds for them."

[Shiz]

"I will help you but I have no stakes and nothing to cut the heads with. I will go look for some deadfall to make the stakes."

Rend shifts into a wolf form and dashes further into the woods. Almost immediately, you lose sight and sound of him. He returns shortly in humanoid form with 10 good-sized sticks. he sits down and starts carving points on both ends with a small, bone-handled knife.

While you and he are staking the heads, you notice that he pries a tooth from each skull and weaves them into his totem.

[EricStratton]

You grab up all the weapons (5 spears, 12 javelins, 2 short swords) and armor (1 leather armor, 5 hide armor, 2 dragon scale (maybe?) shields) the kobolds had. They were in rough shape before they met you. Now they're in worse shape but maybe they can be used for scrap in Winterhaven. As for coin all together they had just 34 silver pieces.

After putting up the warning to the kobolds, you surge up and continue on down the King's Road to Winterhaven.

After another mile, you see smoke on the horizon. A little while later you round a corner in the road and look down into a clearing: A small farmhouse has been burnt to the ground, its ruins still sending a trail of smoke into the air.

Over the next few miles you see several more isolated farms like this one, all destroyed.

Abruptly you find yourself at the end of the King?s Road: It crosses a north-south road and then runs up a broad hill that holds a walled village that must be Winterhaven. The village is nestled in the southern foothills of the Cairngorm Peaks. The walls are weathered stone topped by defensive palisades.

To the south and the west you can see rolling farmland with small, thatched homes fronting a small pasture or crop. Beyond the farms lie dark woods and, to the north, tall mountain peaks.

You climb the hill up to Winterhaven and are greeted by two guards at the gate. The guards are on the alert and keep one eye on your approach and one on everything else. They notice the weapons, armor, and kobold hide you're carrying and appear to be impressed.

"You're either the toughest traders I've ever seen or the poorest adventurers. Either way, anyone killing kobolds is a friend of Winterhaven. If you're wantin' a meal or bed, head to Wrafton's Inn. Lord Padraig will probably want to talk to you about those kobolds but odds are you'll run into him at the Inn anyway. It's where everyone hangs out."

You open your mouth to ask questions but the guard cuts you off explaining they must get back to the watch so you head on in through the gates.

Basic map of the area (sorry for the small size, it's all I got). You came from off the right edge of the map along the King's Road:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v401/EricStratton/area_map.jpg

[Quervo]

start new thread or winterhaven?

[EricStratton]

We'll continue here.

[Shiz]

What time of day is it? Rend isn't one to actively voice his opinion, generally, but the Inn seems the obvious place for the party to go and get information.

Rend, on the other hand, is going to look around Winterhaven. He steps into a shadowed alley and Wild Shapes into a scraggly-looking wolfhound.

[noptov52]

"Head to a tanner before or after tracking down this lordling? I've got a cloak that needs making"

[Moonshadow]

I'm all for heading to the Inn and finding out what we can. We'll probably be able to get directions to a tanner and perhaps someone to buy this scrap metal too.

[EricStratton]

Jagged stops a passing town folk to ask for the nearest tanner. Aside from being quite intimidated by the shifter, she's also quite wary. She tells you to see Bairwin Wildarson at the general store glancing at the nearby guard every other word. She then hurries off not looking back.

So where are you all going? And do you wait for Rend to get back from his scouting trip?

[Shiz]

/ooc Given what I saw (in PM) I am not going to be able to meet up with them for at least an hour, so let them figure out what they are doing and I will show up after a bit and share.

[noptov52]

"A store? Well, I do love to shop..."

[Shiz]

/ooc I assume Sagar is holding the coin for now - level-headed dorf and all.

[Sagar]

WOOT! I LOVE money!
34 copper pieces. Got it.

:p

Let's head to the Inn. Rend can find us there easily enough.

[Greebo]

/oo One of these days, Sagar is going to play an evil character and nobody will ever suspect him...

[noptov52]

Not given to passing on the possibility of food, Jagged heads to the inn with the silver burdened dwarf.

[Shiz]

WOOT! I LOVE money!
34 copper pieces. Got it.

:p

Let's head to the Inn. Rend can find us there easily enough.

Silver pieces. A dorf should know the difference!

[Greebo]

/oo One of these days, Sagar is going to play an evil character and nobody will ever suspect him...

Silver pieces. A dorf should know the difference!

See?

[Quervo]

/ooc LOL

Maz will head to the inn as well. He has most everything he needs for now, excepting replinishing food stocks as needed.

[EricStratton]

The four of you head to Wrafton's Inn. Walking in you see tables to your right, a bar to your left. The tables are crowded although you suspect with supper not too far off the building will start to empty soon. There is a suspicious lack of mirth and smiles even before the crowd notices more strangers walk in. But the break in conversation only lasts a moment before everyone returns to their drinks.

As the crowd at the bar parts to let you all by, a handsome tiefling, looking very out of place in an inn full of humans, stands up and walks over to you. Immediately Sagar recognizes him as one of Douven's former students. "Greebo, you got my message about Master Staul."

[Greebo]

Greebo bows politely to the dwarf.
"Sagar, yes indeed. I've come up the south road from Palderville. I didn't expect to see you here, I planned on arriving at the school tomorrow."

[EricStratton]

Sagar gives Greebo a hearty slap on the shoulder and the excuses himself for just a moment. He turns to the other three adventurers.

"If you don't recognize him from the graduate plaques, this is another of Douven's former students. He was sent the same letter that brought you all to me. I thought he wasn't coming so this is most fortuitous. If my dream is any indication, we're going to need all the help we can get. But we're in this together so..."

He looks at each of you in turn and continues "...does anyone object to his addition?"

[Greebo]

Greebo strains not to show the obvious pain he feels as the dwarf's overhand (and overhead) slap to his shoulder connects.

[noptov52]

Jagged peers at Greebo "He's a bit scrawny for a scrapper, is he a finger waggler?"

[Greebo]

While his facial characteristics and well shaped horn formation are striking, Greebo is lean and somewhat overly skinny for his height. Dressed in simple leather armor, he holds an ornately decorated but otherwise ordinary looking rod in his right hand. An aura of the fey surrounds Greebo, and the magical glint in his eye suggests that those who would seek to cross him may find themselves confronted with a power based in a world apart from this one.

"You are correct, I do not 'scrap'. I prefer to keep myself withdrawn from direct combat. And, as a Warlock, I usually have little difficulty in accomplishing that goal."

[Sagar]

"If I remember correctly, he waggles brains - mostly other people's. And I think he owed me money...."

While doing the introductions, I want to survey the room. Do I see anyone that might be the guy we are looking for? Also, do I see anyone that looks out of place - either more or less suspicious, more or less glum, etc. (insight 8, perc 3).

Lacking any result from those attempts, I'll try to find someone that looks a bit less glum and hostile and amble over.

"Afternoon, Neighbor. Seems a bit gloomy in here. What's ailin' the town, if you don't mind me askin'? "

[noptov52]

Jagged turns back to the group, "He's a bit prickly, but if there's going to be demons about, we might as well have 'em on our side"

[Greebo]

/ooc Should I assume Sagar and company have filled me in as to why I've been summoned? If not:

"Sagar - since you are here, and presumably with fellow alumni, I deduce that I do not need to go on to the school. Why have you summoned us? What has befallen Master Staul?"

[Moonshadow]

*In a voice loud enough to carry, but not obviously trying to be heard*

While you two catch up I'm going to see if I can find Lord Padraig. I'd like to discuss our encounter with the kobolds with him.

If no one stands or approaches immediately I'll head to any serving like person and ask them if Lord Padraig is here.

[noptov52]

*In a voice loud enough to carry, but not obviously trying to be heard*

/ooc Clever girl...

[EricStratton]

With Greebo's introduction out of the way, Sagar gets back to the matter at hand. He looks around for Staul but doesn't see him. He does see a man dressed better than the rest of the people in the bar. He seems to be the target of many a hat tip and "Good to see you, sir"s.

At the same time, Cilene casually mentions Lord Padraig's name. The woman behind the bar pipes up. "Excuse me, you're looking for Lord Padraig? He's right there." She points to the man Sagar just noticed.

"And if you need some food or a room, I'm Salvana Wrafton. Just let me know." She turns and goes back to tending her bar and ordering her staff around.

[Greebo]

Still not clear on whether or not I've been brought up to speed.

If I haven't, I'll stay close and listen carefully (active use of insight) but I would expect my ignorance to penalize my attempts to glean intent.

If I have, same thing, presumably sans penalty.

[EricStratton]

Still not clear on whether or not I've been brought up to speed.

If I haven't, I'll stay close and listen carefully (active use of insight) but I would expect my ignorance to penalize my attempts to glean intent.

If I have, same thing, presumably sans penalty.
After being pointed towards Lord Padraig, Sagar turns to Greebo and explains how your former mentor, Douven Staul, left for Winterhaven a few weeks ago. He was only supposed to be gone for a day or two but hasn't returned. Then Sagar had a vision of Staul surrounded by a darkness that seemed to be reaching for him. That's when he put the call out for Master Staul's present and former standout students to join him in looking for the old dwarf.

I just realized I completely forgot to describe Douven Staul. I was wondering when I'd do something like that.

Douven Staul is an old dwarf. While few think to cross the barrel-chested fellow, the creaking in his knees say his best days, physically, are behind him. Rumors of his life before he became head master of the school make their way through the student body often and ever changing. One has him as a former guard for a Dwarven kingdom. Another has him as a dragon slayer rich beyond all imagination. But whatever the case he is a good dwarf and a great teacher.

Suddenly an older man, perhaps in his 60s, taps Sagar lightly on the shoulder. "Did you say Douven Staul?"

[Sagar]

Sagar lets Moon go talk to the Lord. The dwarf turns to the older man and says, "Yes. Yes I did. Would you be knowin' anything about him, then?"

[Greebo]

Assuming I can't listen carefully to two conversations at once, I remain attentive to Sagar's conversation. The Lord does not interest me.

[EricStratton]

"Let's sit." He turns and walks to the nearest table, sits, and takes a sip of his drink.

Meanwhile, Moonshadow walks over to Lord Padraig and says....

Who goes to talk to the old man? Who goes w/ Moonie to talk w/ Lord Padraig? What do you say to Lord Padraig?

[noptov52]

Jagged drifts to a corner and watches the goings on - and for any interesting female types.

[Quervo]

Though not to be much good in the conversation department, Maz will follow Celine over to the lord. He will follow her lead.

[Moonshadow]

And says...

Good afternoon sire. We were given your name by the gatekeeper. During our journey here we were ambushed by a particularly aggressive group of kobolds and I wonder if the sharing of information might assist both of us.

[EricStratton]

Sagar and Greebo sit down with the man. You take him to be about 60 years old judging by his white, wispy hair and his labored gait. His eyes look worried but you see wisdom in them.

"My name is Valthrun. I am a sage and, I like to think, scholar. And, my friend, I do know Douven. You're a couple of his students, aren't you? I could tell, I could tell" he chuckles. The smile fades from his face quickly as he snaps back into the present. He lowers his voice to the point where you both have to lean in to hear him.

"It's good that you've come! I asked Douven to join me here in Winterhaven because I thought he could help with the kobold problem; train some of the people here to fight.

"He wasn't here long before he told me he thinks the kobolds are a symptom, not the problem. He seemed quite worried. He had me start researching the old keep to the north while he went to investigate a dragon burial site near here. Said it was very important. But he hasn't come back. You must find him!"

[EricStratton]

Lord Padraig looks up at Moonshadow. He is a man of medium height and middling years. His brown hair is thinning, but he still cuts a trim and handsome figure in clothes of rural finery. His face is open and friendly.

"Welcome to Winterhaven. I wish that you might have come at a more auspicious time. So you've encountered the kobolds that have turned the old King's Road and our outlying farms into their personal hunting grounds? Those beasts vex me sorely. But I just don't have the personnel to fight back. Attacks along the road have grown more frequent over the last few months. Something's stirring the kobolds up. I don't suppose you would be interested in taking a commission from me? I promise you, I can pay well for your services."

[EricStratton]

Jagged watches the beer maids pass by. He scopes out the people at the bar and notices a petite and pale but attractive, dark haired elf female that keeps glancing up at him. She has a hunter's bow slung on her back and a longsword on her belt. When Jagged's eyes meet hers she smiles and quickly looks away.

[Moonshadow]

I would have to discuss it with my companions, we are following the trail of our teacher Douven and working to rescue him from whatever evil has befallen him.

[Shiz]

At this moment the door opens as another patron enters. Before the door closes, a shaggy wolfhound enters and seems to look around. It wanders over to your table and lies down at Sagar's feet.

[noptov52]

Channeling the spirit of the legendary shifter chieftain, Barry 'Black Mamba' White, Jagged approaches the elf maiden with a sinuous grace. "Good evening madame, I am Jagged." Glancing Rend's way, "It seems this place has gone to the dogs - care to step outside for a bit of fresh air?"

[Sagar]

Sagar and Greebo sit down with the man. You take him to be about 60 years old judging by his white, wispy hair and his labored gait. His eyes look worried but you see wisdom in them.

"My name is Valthrun. I am a sage and, I like to think, scholar. And, my friend, I do know Douven. You're a couple of his students, aren't you? I could tell, I could tell" he chuckles. The smile fades from his face quickly as he snaps back into the present. He lowers his voice to the point where you both have to lean in to hear him.

"It's good that you've come! I asked Douven to join me here in Winterhaven because I thought he could help with the kobold problem; train some of the people here to fight.

"He wasn't here long before he told me he thinks the kobolds are a symptom, not the problem. He seemed quite worried. He had me start researching the old keep to the north while he went to investigate a dragon burial site near here. Said it was very important. But he hasn't come back. You must find him!"

"Was he a'tellin' ya WHY he thought the kobolds were a symptom?" After he answers that, I'll ask:

"Did he mention why you'r ta research the old keep? and could ya be tellin' me what ya' found out 'bout it?"
After that, I'll ask,

"And ya mentioned a dragon burial site.. when did he head towards that? [pause for answer]

"Where be this site? [pause for answer]

"Why was he goin' there?"

[Sagar]

Glancing at Jagged, I'll ask the old man, "Who is that elf the shifter is talking to?"

[EricStratton]

Responses in bold.
Channeling the spirit of the legendary shifter chieftain, Barry 'Black Mamba' White, Jagged approaches the elf maiden with a sinuous grace. "Good evening madame, I am Jagged." Glancing Rend's way, "It seems this place has gone to the dogs - care to step outside for a bit of fresh air?"

She lets slip a little giggle and pulls out the bar stool next to her, inviting you to sit w/ her. "I've been breathing fresh air all day. Right now I want another drink." She signals Salvana Wrafton for two more. "What brings you to Winterhaven? And...why do you smell like kobold," she asks, suddenly eyeing you suspiciously. She starts to push the stool back in.

"Was he a'tellin' ya WHY he thought the kobolds were a symptom?"

The sage opens his mouth to answer then pauses to watch the dog walk into the Inn and sit at Sagar's feet. "Heh. Ahem, he told me some but, I don't want to talk about it here. I don't want to take the chance of upsetting these people. They think they have it bad with the kobolds."

"Did he mention why you'r ta research the old keep? and could ya be tellin' me what ya' found out 'bout it?"

"We can discuss the 'whys' elsewhere. As for *what* I've found, I haven't found much," he sighs disappointedly.

"The keep was built during the height of the old empire. Some sort of watchtower. I can't find what for, though. Some texts think it was to guard against gnoll marauders, but I don't think that's right. Whatever, the keep seems to have outlived its usefulness. It's been a ruin since before I was born, I think. Probably a goblin lair by this time.

"I did get a new shipment of books in from Fallcrest, and I'm hopeful I'll have more information in the next day or two. I'm especially looking forward to reading Rodum's Almanac," he says excitedly before remember the current situation, his smile fading.

"And ya mentioned a dragon burial site.. when did he head towards that?

"Over a week ago! Now you understand the urgency!"

"Where be this site?"

"It's to the southwest of here. I'll draw you a map." He pens a small map and hands it to you.

"Why was he goin' there?"

He raises an eyebrow and quickly nods his head to the folks around him. "Not. Here. If you'd like to come with me to my tower, I can tell you what I know. I know you're probably tired and want to sleep but I pray you'll be your way tomorrow morning." He sees your eyes narrow and quickly adds "No, not tonight. It's too dangerous."


Glancing at Jagged, I'll ask the old man, "Who is that elf the shifter is talking to?"

"Ninaran? Nice girl. I wouldn't have been surprised to find out she was with you," nodding at Greebo. "She doesn't really act like a Staul grad but I hear she's quite the hunter. Got here about six months ago give or take."

[noptov52]

"Your town(?) appears to have a bit of a kobold infestation. A pack of the dumb blighters ambushed my friends *waves at his comrades* and I as we were traveling on the road."

"Poor decision for them, but as I said, they're not known for their brains."

*Jagged takes long drink of the local brew*

"Ah, that hit's the spot. Cleaving a kobold or four does work up a thirst."

[Greebo]

(Insight +6) Since we have no leads on our missing teacher, I am suspicious.
"Valthrun, how long have you known Master Staul?" {Are you really his friend?}

"Do you share his opinion concerning Kobolds as a symptom?" {Are you leading us on?}

"And, do you think someone might have been aware of his suspicions?" {Did you set him up?}

/ooc No, I'm not paranoid, not one bit!

[Shiz]

No leads? He is probably at the burial site thingy. Or his remains. That's where he was headed. But I cannot speak in this form...

[Moonshadow]

/ooc are the Lord and I close enough to Rend, Sagar, Greebo and the old man to overhear anything?

[Sagar]

"I don't feel comfortable waiting until tomorrow to talk. We could get rooms here - would you be able to talk there? If not, how far away is your tower?"

Insight (8) on all the old man said.

[Greebo]

/ooc are the Lord and I close enough to Rend, Sagar, Greebo and the old man to overhear anything?

/ooc In the middle of a busy tavern?

[EricStratton]

I would have to discuss it with my companions, we are following the trail of our teacher Douven and working to rescue him from whatever evil has befallen him.

Lord Padraig: "Well, discuss it and soon. We're in dire need of assistance."

"Your town(?) appears to have a bit of a kobold infestation. A pack of the dumb blighters ambushed my friends *waves at his comrades* and I as we were traveling on the road."

"Poor decision for them, but as I said, they're not known for their brains."

*Jagged takes long drink of the local brew*

"Ah, that hit's the spot. Cleaving a kobold or four does work up a thirst."

Ninaran pushes the stool back out for you and is visibly relieved. "You know that Lord Padraig is looking for someone to stop the kobolds, right? He's approached me but I don't hunt humanoids. He's even offered a reward for the location of their lair. I know where it is but if I tell Padraig, he'll expect me to go and do something about it. Ha!"

(Insight +6) Since we have no leads on our missing teacher, I am suspicious.
"Valthrun, how long have you known Master Staul?" {Are you really his friend?}

Valthrun chuckles and smiles that "I'm reminiscing and have forgotten that we're in trouble" smile of his. "We go a loooong way back. Long before he started his school. We had our fair share of adventures, too, you know. Some times I do miss those days. Every morning I miss my knees from those days, that's for sure."

"Do you share his opinion concerning Kobolds as a symptom?" {Are you leading us on?}

The smile fades (again). "Well, the little he's told me certain makes sense but it's hard to imagine that sort of thing in our area. 'You never expect it in your own backyard' and all. To be honest if Douven and I didn't know each other already, I probably wouldn't believe a word of it."

"And, do you think someone might have been aware of his suspicions?" {Did you set him up?}

"It's always possible. But we're careful not to talk about it in the open so improbable."

/ooc No, I'm not paranoid, not one bit!

Insight: The man appears very genuine.

/ooc are the Lord and I close enough to Rend, Sagar, Greebo and the old man to overhear anything?

No. Their table is up close to the bar. Yours is back along the wall. You might be able to hear each other if it wasn't a noisy bar and Valthrun wasn't purposely keeping his voice down.

"I don't feel comfortable waiting until tomorrow to talk. We could get rooms here - would you be able to talk there? If not, how far away is your tower?"

Insight (8) on all the old man said.

Valthrun: "No no, we must talk tonight! Tomorrow you must be on your way to the dig site. My tower is on the other side of town so it's close...it's a small town."

[Greebo]

To Sagar: "My travels were uneventful, so I have no objection to accompanying our new friend to his tower, but I don't know how road weary you and your, or I suppose I should say our, companions are."

[Sagar]

To the old man, "I would say we'd meet you there but bad things happen in troubled times. Do you mind staying close by? I want to be able to protect you if someone or something decides you shouldn't be around anymore.

To Greebo, "Let's get some rooms and go see how the guys with Lord Padraig are coming along."

Sagar rises and waits for the scholar and Greebo to rise also. Then he will go see what is going on with Lord P and try to get rooms.

[Greebo]

/ooc Who are you addressing, Sagar? I assume me based on the second sentence.

"Either is fine by me, but I do think once you've tended to your accommodations that we should proceed in haste to Valthrun's tower."

[Shiz]

The raggedy wolfhound gets up and exits the tavern. As you are making your way over to Cilene, Rend enters.

He looks at Greebo with a faint flicker of familiarity and then looks at Sagar and raises an eyebrow.

[Moonshadow]

Lord Padraig: "Well, discuss it and soon. We're in dire need of assistance."




Pardon me then sir, I'll talk to them immediately and let you know as soon as we agree.

/bow

I head over to join the boys.

[EricStratton]

To the old man, "I would say we'd meet you there but bad things happen in troubled times. Do you mind staying close by? I want to be able to protect you if someone or something decides you shouldn't be around anymore.

To Greebo, "Let's get some rooms and go see how the guys with Lord Padraig are coming along."

Sagar rises and waits for the scholar and Greebo to rise also. Then he will go see what is going on with Lord P and try to get rooms.
Valthrun: "You have business with Lord Padraig?" Looking impatient he says, "Discuss what you must. I'm going to finish my drink. You let me know when you're ready. But *please* hurry."

[Greebo]

The raggedy wolfhound gets up and exits the tavern. As you are making your way over to Cilene, Rend enters.

He looks at Greebo with a faint flicker of familiarity and then looks at Sagar and raises an eyebrow.

(Under my breath to Sagar, looking apprehensive) "Was that your dog? I don't like dogs much..."

[noptov52]

Ninaran pushes the stool back out for you and is visibly relieved. "You know that Lord Padraig is looking for someone to stop the kobolds, right? He's approached me but I don't hunt humanoids. He's even offered a reward for the location of their lair. I know where it is but if I tell Padraig, he'll expect me to go and do something about it. Ha!"

"I have yet to meet this Padraig, but my pack has some experience with Kobold removal. With the proper persuasion, they might lend a hand."

"I'm ever willing to help a damsel in distress. With both hands, and... :twisted:"

Jagged subtly motions to Rend the primal spirit of wingman, silently conveying "Cover for me."

[Shiz]

(Under my breath to Sagar) "Is that your dog? I don't like dogs much..."

/ooc not a dog any more. Did you mean "was"?

[Greebo]

/ooc not a dog any more. Did you mean "was"?

/ooc yes, fixed

[Sagar]

"Cilene, what did Lord Padraig want?"

/em assume she tells us what happened.

"We need to track down our mentor first, but do you want to ask Lord P if we can meet him in 3 hour's time to discuss how we can help each other?"

[Greebo]

"I would not be at all surprised if we cannot kill two blood stirges with one stone here. If Master Staul is right that the Kobolds are only symptomatic, then it seems likely to me that finding our mentor will require dealing with the Kobolds, which presumably is what the local Lord desires, if he is to ensure that his town continues to function effectively."

[Moonshadow]

I presume you also update me on your conversation.

It seems all our paths are leading in the same direction. 3 hours sounds good. I'll make the arrangement to meet Lord Padraig and work out the details.

/returns to Lord Padraig

Sir. It appears that our mentor was also working on discovering what is behind the kobold's actions. We have some research to do before we commit to an actual plan, but would you be available in 3 hours time to meet with us to discuss? It seems that our mission and your needs will coincide quite well.

[EricStratton]

"I have yet to meet this Padraig, but my pack has some experience with Kobold removal. With the proper persuasion, they might lend a hand."

"I'm ever willing to help a damsel in distress. With both hands, and... :twisted:"

Jagged subtly motions to Rend the primal spirit of wingman, silently conveying "Cover for me."

"Damsel in distress he says." She shakes her head, downs the rest of her drink, and pays her tab. Standing up she says "It's been nice meeting you. Let me know if you go looking for the kobolds. You can find me here in the evenings. And please...take a bath." With that she heads out the Inn door.

I presume you also update me on your conversation.

It seems all our paths are leading in the same direction. 3 hours sounds good. I'll make the arrangement to meet Lord Padraig and work out the details.

/returns to Lord Padraig

Sir. It appears that our mentor was also working on discovering what is behind the kobold's actions. We have some research to do before we commit to an actual plan, but would you be available in 3 hours time to meet with us to discuss? It seems that our mission and your needs will coincide quite well.

Padraig is visibly disappointed but still hopeful he might have finally found help. "In three hours I'll be in my manor. You can find it to the north of town, through the inner gates. Show the guards at the gate this and they'll let you in." He hands you a piece of cloth with an insignia on it. The insignia matches the one on the Lord's cloak.

Valthrun notices that you're ready to go. He stands up and heads to his tower.

Who goes w/ him? What do the rest of you do?

His tower looks old. Very old. Once inside you see a door to your right and some stairs in front of you. He locks the front door behind you and slowly climbs the stairs to the fourth floor. There you see a desk with a number of scrolls and books laying about, a couple of book cases filled to capacity, and a table and three chairs.

He takes one of the chairs and offers the other two to the party apologizing for the lack of accommodations if more than two people went with him. He takes a minute to catch his breath and then begins.

"As I said, I asked Douven to come here to help us deal with the kobolds. Good ol' Douven was quick to agree to help me. When he got here he wanted to get an idea of what he was dealing with so he did some scouting, did a little research, talked to Lord Padraig and the towns people."

"After a couple days he came to me and told me to start researching the keep. He also wanted more information on the demon prince, Orcus. He believes there is some sort of cult of Orcus operating in or around the town. I don't talk about this outside these doors, not only because I don't want to start any sort of panic, but also because Douven believes some of the towns people might be cultists. If it didn't come from Douven himself I wouldn't have believed him."

"Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find out much Orcus. I do know he is one of the most powerful demons in the Abyss - powerful enough to threaten gods. He commands legions of followers, living and dead."

"Most of my time has been spent researching the keep. Douven wanted me to make it a priority. Speaking of which, I need to get back to my books...and get dinner. I'll try to answer any questions you might have but keep them brief. You must help Douven."

[Greebo]

"You said he went to investigate a dragon burial site. Why? How did he think it was connected?"

[EricStratton]

"You said he went to investigate a dragon burial site. Why? How did he think it was connected?"
"He thought the cultists might have found something important there. That's all he told me."

[Greebo]

Arcana/History/Religion +4

/ooc Gee, you think being quasi demonic, I'd have paid more attention to Grampa Jhariden when he rambled on about the good old days of our demon masters...

What if anything do I know of Orcus?

[Shiz]

Rend takes this moment to tell everyone what he discovered:

During your walkabout you find the following shops/buildings/areas:

Wrafton's Inn
A market square
Stables
Smithy
A five-story tower
General store
Warrior guild - you stop here to take a closer look and are disappointed. The term "warrior" hardly seems to apply.
Various apartments
Temple - it looks like several gods are worshiped by the towns people but Avandra is the most prominent.

You also find an inner gate along the north wall (you entered the city in the east wall). The gate is closed and guarded by two men. Through the bars you see a large mansion that, through the conversations you've heard along the street, you believe belongs to Lord Padraig.

A couple specific names keep getting dropped - Lord Padraig who the towns people genuinely seem to like and trust; and Valthrun whom they call "the Prescient" - a mage of some sort that is also genuinely liked among the people. You believe it's his tower you came across earlier.

You've also discovered that the kobolds have been attacking travelers on the roads regularly. A few weeks ago livestock started being stolen. Just over the past few days, however, several isolated forms have been attacked and destroyed. Those lucky enough to survive such attacks have fled to Winterhaven. People are worried that things are about to get a lot worse. Farmers from the southern farms haven't been coming to market. Food is running out. "Maybe it's time to leave Winterhaven."

[Shiz]

Who goes w/ him? What do the rest of you do?[/I]


We all do.

[Sagar]

We all do.
Nods

[Moonshadow]

We all do.

Yep, I'm there too.

[Sagar]

What more can you tell us about the dragon burial area? Where is it and how do we find it?

Also, can you remember anything else about the keep? Or about cultists? Do they have any special sign or identifier?

[Sagar]

(Religion +8) what do I remember about Orcus?

[Zyzzyx]

/ooc Gee, you think being quasi demonic, I'd have paid more attention to Grampa Jhariden when he rambled on about the good old days of our demon masters...
Just a suggestion, but I've found it easier to differentiate by just putting OOC thoughts/comments in italics. When that's been used in Group 3 it works well. For both players and DMs.

[Greebo]

Just a suggestion, but I've found it easier to differentiate by just putting OOC thoughts/comments in italics. When that's been used in Group 3 it works well. For both players and DMs.

/ooc Noted, will do

[EricStratton]

Arcana/History/Religion +4

What if anything do I know of Orcus?
2+4 Religion vs DC - You don't remember anything. You're barely sure you remember having heard of the name Orcus.

What more can you tell us about the dragon burial area? Where is it and how do we find it?

"I can't tell you much at all. I've never been there myself. Douven and I discussed it some and he showed me where it is but that's all I know. You can use the map I gave you back in the tavern to get there."

Also, can you remember anything else about the keep? Or about cultists? Do they have any special sign or identifier?

"There's nothing more to tell you about the keep that I know. I'm still looking though! As for the cult, I imagine they'll be using the sign of Orcus - a ram's skull. But no one's been foolish enough to display it publicly if that's what they are using."


(Religion +8) what do I remember about Orcus?
5+8 Religion vs DC - You at least have heard of Orcus and you can confirm what Valthrun said about him being the one of the most powerful demons in the Abyss, but that's about it.

[Quervo]

History +11, add 1d6 to it also, what do i know about this demon lord?

[Greebo]

To Valthrun: "How does our teacher think this cult is related to the kobold problem?"

[Shiz]

"So many questions. If we find Master Douval, we can ask him ourselves. Let;s go get a contract from Lord Prig and kill some kobolds."

[EricStratton]

History +11, add 1d6 to it also, what do i know about this demon lord?

History 18+11 vs DC - You remember that Ocrus is known in some texts as the Godslayer. At times cults dedicated to him have terrifyingly spread throughout the world. He finds amusement in the suffering and anguish of the living and satisfaction only when he drinks their blood. Most living things enrage him by their mere presence, and Orcus permits only undead to be near him; even his demon servitors are undead. He has destroyed hundreds of mighty heroes and laid waste to countless kingdoms.

To Valthrun: "How does our teacher think this cult is related to the kobold problem?"

"He thinks the kobolds might be part of the Orcus cult or serving them maybe."

"So many questions. If we find Master Douval, we can ask him ourselves. Let;s go get a contract from Lord Prig and kill some kobolds."

"Douven will know more than I." He stands slowly and opens the door leading to the stairs. "If you need anything else, I'll be here. And find me as soon as you have more information about Douven."

[Greebo]

/ooc Never mind

[Moonshadow]

"So many questions. If we find Master Douval, we can ask him ourselves. Let;s go get a contract from Lord Prig and kill some kobolds."

Agreed. I don't think he'll mind at all if we're early.

/grabs the cloth with the emblem on it out of her pocket.

Lets go north!

[Greebo]

We certainly seem to be done here.

[EricStratton]

Agreed. I don't think he'll mind at all if we're early.

/grabs the cloth with the emblem on it out of her pocket.

Lets go north!
I would've sworn I typed it but now I can't find it. Anyway - the burial site is to the southeast of Winterhaven. The keep that Valthrun is researching is to the north.

Unless you meant north to see the Lord, then I'll shut up.

[Greebo]

I think she did mean to go see the Lord, and don't shut up - tell us what he says! ;)

[Shiz]

ONE MILLION GOLD PIECES!

[Greebo]

ONE MILLION GOLD PIECES!

Um, what?

[Shiz]

I was telling you he says...

[Greebo]

I was telling you he says...
Is this a Dr. Evil segue?

[Moonshadow]

I hope it's our fee for saving the town from the kobolds!

I'll be offline for the next few hours, apparently the girl child is moving back home ... today...

[Greebo]

Hooray for advance warning?

So we all head to the Lord's Manor...

[noptov52]

Not interested in spending time with a lord, Jagged heads back to the inn in search of a bath.

What time is it? If the store would still be open, Jagged will head there too, in hopes of getting his cloak started.

[EricStratton]

All but Jagged leave Valthrun's tower and head north to the inner gates. There you encounter the guards as Lord Padraig had said, and you give them the patch bearing the Lord's insignia. They eye you suspiciously but allow you to pass.

Inside the inner gates you see Lord Padraig's large manner directly in front of you. To your left you see another large building that appears to be some sort of warehouse. To your right, a third smaller building.

Lord Padraig answers the door himself and invites you all in. About 10 feet into the home, it opens up into a large reception hall. The hall is about 20 feet deep and 30 feet long. A large 10 foot wide fire place sits in the middle of the back wall. There's a door along the left wall and one along the right. He invites you to sit waiting for Cilene to do so before he takes his seat.

"Thank you very much for coming. I assume Cilene has told you of my desire to be rid of the kobolds that continue to harass my people. I'll get right to it if you don't mind. I've heard reports that the kobolds are operating out of a lair. I want it cleared out. You can keep anything they've hoarded there even if it once belonged to any of my citizens, and I'll give you 100g for completing the deed provided you bring me proof.

"I'll tell you now, though. I don't know where the lair is. I've only heard that it exists. If there's a tracker among you maybe you can follow some foot prints or whatever it is you nature-types do."

He looks around the room at each of you and asks, "Will you help us?"

[EricStratton]

Jagged heads back to the Inn. Along the way he passes the general store - Bairwin's Grand Shoppe, according to the sign swinging above the door. A man is just coming out of the store and locking the door when Jagged approaches.

[Shiz]

He looks around the room at each of you and asks, "Will you help us?"

Despite himself - because it tends to make humans uneasy - Rend grins, his shifter fangs all too visible. He looks at Sagar with some excitement.

[Moonshadow]

He looks around the room at each of you and asks, "Will you help us?"

That seems very reasonable sir, but I believe we could add some additonal value. If I could suggest that if we provide you with details and evidence of the group backing the kobolds a bonus of an additonal 50g would be appropriate.

[EricStratton]

That seems very reasonable sir, but I believe we could add some additonal value. If I could suggest that if we provide you with details and evidence of the group backing the kobolds a bonus of an additonal 50g would be appropriate.
Diplo 12 + 6 vs DC. "The group *backing* the kobolds?! Do you know something I don't? Is it serious? Should I be concerned?"

[Greebo]

Lets not trigger a panic...
"Sir I believe my colleague only meant that this kind of kobold activity - such aggression - is unusual, {bluff} it sometimes happens when the pack or tribe is moved to do so by a more powerful leader. One powerful enough, I mean, to scare the kobolds into doing its bidding, but not a serious threat to the general population. Still, such a leader - a bugbear perhaps - would carry additional risk in its removal, and as such, if we find that such a beast has been behind this and remove the threat, it would only be fair that such risk carried commensurate reward, would it not?"

(Bluff because I doubt Greebo has any such knowledge and the attempt is to calm the leader from a hasty overreaction)

[EricStratton]

Lets not trigger a panic...
"Sir I believe my colleague only meant that this kind of kobold activity - such aggression - is unusual, {bluff} it sometimes happens when the pack or tribe is moved to do so by a more powerful leader. One powerful enough, I mean, to scare the kobolds into doing its bidding, but not a serious threat to the general population. Still, such a leader - a bugbear perhaps - would carry additional risk in its removal, and as such, if we find that such a beast has been behind this and remove the threat, it would only be fair that such risk carried commensurate reward, would it not?"

(Bluff because I doubt Greebo has any such knowledge and the attempt is to calm the leader from a hasty overreaction)
Bluff 19+10 vs DC 5 (he doesn't believe such a thing possible in the first place so he's easy to convince. Sorry to waste a 19 on it.). He noticeably calms down, relaxing in his seat a bit. "Ah. Okay. Excuse my reaction, these are tense times. We're all under a lot of stress. Our food stores are shrinking fast with my people unable to farm and traders unwilling to make the trip here.

"150 gold then. But for that much I expect it done quickly. And...thank you." He stands and offers his hand to Cilene to shake on the deal.

Cilene b/c she has the highest diplo of all you bums. ;)

[Greebo]

It seems we have a choice to make after all.

We don't know where the kobolds are (and I think we don't know that Jagged has a lead as he did not state that he filled us in), so assuming it would take time to find the kobolds, I think they can wait and that finding our lost teacher is more urgent.

So my vote is for teach first, kobolds second.

[Shiz]

"The kobold lair should not be hard to find. We go to where we killed them and look for tracks. That many kobolds should not be a problem for me."

/ooc I imagine a DC 15 only and I have +9.

[noptov52]

I think I can add a support to Shiz's roll, right? Also, Jagged doesn't have means to contact his lead unless she shows up at the inn tomorrow evening or someone in town knows where she lives.

[EricStratton]

I think I can add a support to Shiz's roll, right? Also, Jagged doesn't have means to contact his lead unless she shows up at the inn tomorrow evening or someone in town knows where she lives.
Up to 4 ppl can assist on the check.

[Greebo]

So it sounds like Rend favors Kobolds first. Regardless, I presume we must go back to the inn to collect Jagged, and does the party need to rest? (I don't)

[Moonshadow]

It should be fairly dark by now, it would probably make sense to wait til morning to set off.

I propose we follow the map V. gave us and find out what happened to our mentor. I predict that we'll find kobolds and information there as well.

[Quervo]

I think the evening rest would not hurt as we are already in town.

[Greebo]

Well then lets get to it. A night's rest and then we're off to see the kobolds!

[Lycos]

... we're off to see the kobolds!

Look here comes our rogue...

http://images.buycostumes.com/mgen/merchandiser/7727.jpg

We're off to see the kobolds...
the wonderful kobolds of...

:lowlol:

[Greebo]

Look here comes our rouge...

Fixed that for you. ;)

[EricStratton]

Everyone goes back to Wrafton's Inn and finds it relatively empty. Salvana Wrafton notices you looking at the empty tables and explains that most of the locals go home for dinner but a good number of them will be back afterwards for about an hour of drinks, games, and random merriment.

The six of you order dinner and rooms. True to Salvana's word as you're finishing dinner locals start filing back into the bar. They try to give your group a wide buffer but they are pleasant enough.

Lord Padraig comes back in and takes his normal seat. Jagged's eyes brighten when he sees Ninaran walk through the door and take a seat the bar.

[Greebo]

If Bairwin Wildarson is present, I'll point him out to Jagged (assuming I'm aware that Jagged wants a cloak made).

OOC: I've been using some streetwise behind the scenes to get info on the townies. Bairwin is the general store owner.

[EricStratton]

If Bairwin Wildarson is present, I'll point him out to Jagged (assuming I'm aware that Jagged wants a cloak made).

OOC: I've been using some streetwise behind the scenes to get info on the townies. Bairwin is the general store owner.
You do see him walk into the building and take a seat at the bar.

[Moonshadow]

I'll chat with the Lord while ordering a drink and ensure he knows we're departing at first light.

[EricStratton]

Lord Pagraid is relieved to hear of your timetable. He invites Cilene to sit and drink with him.

Ninaran looks over to your table as Cilene gets up. She too stands up and walks over to your table taking Cilene's seat. She takes a second to give Jagged a scowl then introduces herself to the rest of you.

"I guess I shouldn't have expected a barbarian to act any differently," she growls under her breath.

She brightens up considerably and smiles. "My name's Ninaran. I've already met your friend here. What are your names?"

[Greebo]

Seeing as we need to move this along...
Laying on the charm
"Good evening my dear! I'm Greebo, at your service, and the others here, rendered speechless by your beauty no doubt, are Sagar, Rend, and Mazirith. The lady who just left is Cilene. I'm very pleased to meet you. What may I do to assist you this fine evening?"

[EricStratton]

"Actually I was wondering if I might be able to assist you. Earlier he" nodding to Jagged, "told me that you all have been hunting kobolds. I can show you where I think they are coming from. Interested?"

[Greebo]

"Actually I was wondering if I might be able to assist you. Earlier he" nodding to Jagged, "told me that you all have been hunting kobolds. I can show you where I think they are coming from. Interested?"

"My dear lady, as it happens we would be delighted! We have indeed been contracted to rid the town of the Kobold menace, and while we had intended to track them ourselves, anything that can save us time would be most welcome."

While I smile and lay it on thick, Insight (6) check of her motivations.
Yes, Greebo is slightly paranoid...

[Moonshadow]

slightly

You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.

[EricStratton]

"My dear lady, as it happens we would be delighted! We have indeed been contracted to rid the town of the Kobold menace, and while we had intended to track them ourselves, anything that can save us time would be most welcome."

While I smile and lay it on thick, Insight (6) check of her motivations.
Yes, Greebo is slightly paranoid...
"Anything to get rid of these damned pests!" She gets some paper (what do they write on in DnD world?) and a writing utensil from the barkeep and draws you a rough sketch of the location relative to Winterhaven. Like the burial site it's also to the southeast but it's more to the east (see picture below). "I'm glad I was able to help." With that she gets up and leaves the Inn.

Insight 17 + 6 vs DC. She's genuine in what she says and you're sure the map she's given you is accurate. There does seem to be something about her that isn't right but that could easily be attributed to the fact that you're all strangers, you have shifters, a tiefling, and a deva with you, that Jagged tried putting the moves on her, or any combination of the three.

Cilene comes back to the table having learned nothing new. Lord Padraig kept the focus on the lady as men looking for love are want to do. You fill her in on Ninaran and most of you call it a night. Greebo decides to mingle with the people for a couple hours to see if there's anything more he can find out (PM from Greebo explaining his intensions and PM back to him detailing what he found).

The night passes uneventfully for all except Sagar. He awakens in the middle of the night in a cold sweat. He's had another vision of Master Staul. This time Staul is beset on all sides by legions of undead. Sagar doesn't get back to sleep and tosses and turns until morning comes.

In the morning you meet in the tavern part of the Inn and eat a hearty breakfast while Sagar explains his dream to you.

On the way out you stop by Bairwin's Grand Shoppe. He looks at the kobold weapons and armor then gives the kobold hide a good once over. "Well, maybe I can get Thair (the local smithy, Greebo tells you) to melt the weapons down into something useful. And the armor...well, I can make saddles of out em perhaps. Tell you what. Even trade - give me the weapons and armor and I'll get you a cloak made out of this hide."

If you want to haggle just post it and we'll settle it next time you're in town.

On your way to the gate you run into Valthrun. "Please let me know as SOON as you find Douven."

Anyone say anything to him?

You give the outer gate guards a "good morning" and head on your way to the kobold lair.

Assuming you are going to the kobold lair. I'll give you tonight to post anything relating to any of the above. Tomorrow we'll resolve that and hit whatever location you've decided on.

Map to kobold lair and burial site. For reference the road heading east is the King's Road:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v401/EricStratton/Picture3-1.png

[Moonshadow]

Cilene comes back to the table having learned nothing new. Lord Padraig kept the focus on the lady as men looking for love are want to do.



*blinks* Wha????

Well THAT one flew right past me. I wonder if we can use it.

Oh well, kobolds to kill before we figure it out.

[Quervo]

/ooc wow beeing hit on by the local lord... sure your not ready to retire? (you know what they say... women only go to college to find a husband.. SO J/K right now)

Maz brings nothing up, I think the lair would be a good place to start, we can sweep back by the burial site on the way back to town

[Sagar]

I want to go to the burial area first. Finding our mentor is what we came he for. If he is there and threatened by undead, I thing we need to find him sooner than later.. and I'd rather face undead in the daylight. We can kill kobolds anytime.

Really, I very much think we should go to the burial mound first.

To Val, "Do you know anything about the kobolds or their lair? (show him the map location)"

[Moonshadow]

I put my vote with Sagar's. That's where our mentor went to find out about the kobolds so I believe going to the burial site will address both missions.

[Shiz]

As soon as the gate is a few hundred yards behind us, Rend becomes a wolfhound and circles the party looking for trouble. He doesn't care which place we are going first.

[Greebo]

As soon as the gate is a few hundred yards behind us, Rend becomes a wolfhound and circles the party looking for trouble. He doesn't care which place we are going first.

Is this transition going to happen in view of Greebo?

[Shiz]

Yes.

[Greebo]

I would still prefer to go to the dragon burial site first, since that is why we're here. That puts the vote 3-2 with 1 abstain for the burial site.

As for Rend - well, Greebo says nothing, but makes it a point to always move away from Rend while Rend is in wolf hound form.

[noptov52]

Jagged thinks it is more prudent to go to the location we have a better trail/guide to (the kobold site). and finish that before venturing into a larger unknown.

[Sagar]

We came to get find our mentor. The kobolds are an additional task. Let's stick to our primary and, if my dreams are any indication, more urgent task.

[Moonshadow]

Well that keeps our vote at 3-2 with one abstention, so I think we're off to find our mentor.

Sleep well, get up early, eat breakfast and head out going South. Presuming that there is no more critical interaction we'll pick up the morning on the road out of town.

[EricStratton]

New thread.