The world has never been a safe place. Bastions of civilization
populate a dark, menacing world—islands of order and reason exist in a
land otherwise overrun by dark cults, vile monsters, creatures from the
dark edges of the imagination, and worse. As deadly as the world is on
a normal day, something has begun to stir on the fringes of the civilized
Elsir Vale. Formerly the site of an attack by an army known as the Red
Hand, the Vale has known several years of peace since brave adventurers
stormed into the teeth of the approaching Hand and sent them scurrying
back into the darkness.

Kyle is a human artificer who wields a superior crossbow. Will Edit: And Spiked Gauntlet.
Select characters to play:

http://spreadsheets.google.com...amp;authkey=CL3UyMIN

Insert Coin!

Player Select!

Player 1: Mits pyromancer
Player 2: Colosus Kyle
Player 3: Timothius cleric
Player 4: Raichel monk/sorc
Player 5: In flux (Starting with May)

http://www.halolz.com/wp-conte...s-wooooooaaaaagh.jpg

  Map Done....ish.  Maptile wise.  5 more 'rabble' to place, but PC's get seating spot priority before those.
Tactics and Features text blocks put into comments... But I have NO idea how to make the mouseover box a good size like the Tactics and Features comment mouseover on shadowfell map gets.  I'll let Chris deal with the stats lane.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:55, Sat 16 Apr 2011.

Important decided upon things for this setting:

Module will not be modified in any way except for maybe grammatical errors.  No "new DC table" or "new version of monster" modifications.  This will be raw.  Expect to fail every skill challenge ever.

This is set in the original PHB setting.  No Tempus specific feats or paragon paths or whatever.  Tempus doesn't exist.

A rather rare sight for her siblings is becoming commonplace.  Mittens drenched head to toe.  But in 100 degree weather, who can blame her?  Floating down the river on a raft was a good idea for keeping cool at least, frequent issues with it breaking apart from amateur construction aside.  She's singing the praises of the Diamond League loudly, standing on the raft with an operatic pose - what with Diamond League Day only a week away.  This in spite of experience teaching her repeatedly that standing on a raft is risky.  At least it's not as bad as standing in a canoe.

This has the intended effect of drawing the attention of the dock workers long before she and her sibs arrive at port.  It'll be several minutes before they float close enough to dock.

"What the heck?" one says, "You see'n what I'm see'n?"

"Aye...  Cat people?" another answers.

"Looks like.  I've heard rumors of such critters but never seen one."

"Me too.  They hunt people on the full moon.  If they bite you, you turn into one."

"Seriously?!"

"Seriously."

"Oh yeah!  I think heard that too!  We gotta get the guards, then!"

"Aye.  Sound plan, that."

They hurry off to grab some members of the town patrol.  They's usually a few handy around the docks.

Timothy, nicknamed Tim, Timmy, or Timothius by his sibs, is sitting on one end of the raft opposite where Raichel sits so as to keep the thing balanced. Tim looks up at Mittens. Then to the port. Letting people know your coming makes them less skittish than they otherwise would be.

"Think this one will shoot arrows at us before they bother asking questions?" he asks.

As mentioned, Raichel is on the other side of the raft. She looks over at Timothius and says, "Nah. They might have thrown rocks at us before running." she reaches to grab Mittens' tail and tugs it lightly. "We shouldn't so much as throw a rope until the guards say we can. I'd hate a good rope getting chopped or us being jailed for "not asking permission" or whatever other excuse they throw at us."

"Not many rocks to be had on boardwalks, methinks," Mittens answers, "And I have full confidence that the town that was the site of the defeat of the Red Hand Army will be open minded enough to at least ask questions first shoot later."

"You there!" a guard shouts.

Mittens waves.  <secretlanguage>"Heh... at least he didn't say, 'halt'... us without an anchor and all."</secretlanguage>

"State your business!"

"I am Mittens the Magnificent!  This is my sister Raichel the Radiant and Timothius the Terrific!  We're adventurers!  We've come to Brindol to enjoy the famed Diamond League Day!"

The guards mutter between themselves.

"Adventurers, you say?  You'll surrender whatever weapons you have."

"Gladly!  We are strong proponents of complying with reasonable requests from law enforcement!"

The guards mutter some more then point.

"Dock over here."

Mittens raises her eyebrows.  <secretlanguage>"Well that went better than expected.  I keep forgetting that Timothius is supposed to be the one who does all the negotiations."</secretlanguage>

<secretlanguage>"Don't forget, Mitts, they think our teeth are weapons. We supposed to hand over our dentures too?"</secretlanguage> Timothius asks. Then docks as instructed.

"Greetings, officers. Guess we put a whole new meaning to drifters, eh?" he smiles.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:02, Sun 17 Apr 2011.

Raichel chuckles, then responds to Tim's comment, <secretlanguage>"I'm sure they *will* ask at some point about our bite. We'll need to be careful how we explain how we are dangerous."</secretlanguage>

She doesn't interrupt the conversation with the guards and simply gives them a welcoming smile.

Mittens and one of the two guards snerk at Timothius' pun.  The other keeps a straight face and answers, "While you may be the first Shifters, I've seen a lot of different things drift down this river."

"Don't trust 'em!" one of the dock workers says, "They'll seduce you with song before they drag you into the water to eat your face off!"

"Don't be silly," the smiling guard says, "Everyone knows that's harpies.  These three look nothing like fish.  See?  Legs."

Mits tosses the end of the rope and the guards help tie the raft to the dock.  It's taking a great deal of effort for her to keep from commenting.  Before long the sibs are on the boardwalk.

Timothius says, "If you weren't on duty, I would say let's go learn more about monsters together. But I tell you what, how about after your shift, you join me and my siblings at the local tavern. I'll buy you drinks and share whatever book I may find on the topic. When do you guys get off work, so I know when to meetchya at the tavern?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:33, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

Raichel says, <Secretlanguage>"Don't fraternize *too* much, Tim. They might mistake it as you trying to butter them up."<Secretlanguage>

She then looks at the guards and says, "Where can we find a list of the local laws?"

A human lady with bright red hair arrives at the docks, having overheard the minor panic earlier. She ohs, seeing the siblings. Then hears what Raichel asks. Meriele looks at the guards. "May I show them around town?"

"You see!" one of the paranoid workers says, "They're plotting in their language so we don't know their plots!"

Mittens is about to burst.

"What did she just say?" the smiling guard asks.

"She wants a list of the laws," the jaded one asks with a hint of surprise.

"No, before that."

"'Orby gopto luptu,'" Mittens quotes, no longer able to keep quiet, "'Gorf janey ofta shneer shnick.'"

"In common," the no-longer smiling guard says with a facepalm.

"She was just telling Timothius that even being generous might be taken the wrong way.  But apparently the greater sin is to know a second language."

Saved by the redhead interruption!

"An adventurer..." the guard says, noticing that she has a backpack and is bristling with obvious weapons.

"A human adventurer," the jaded guard agrees.

"Sure.  Just keep them out of trouble."

"But you didn't take their weapons!" the paranoid dock worker objects.

The guards eye the sibs.

"All they've got are staffs.  This one has blades.  And lots of 'em."

"They have claws and fangs too!"

"I can't exactly confiscate those."

"Oh...  Right."

Timothius says, <Secretlanguage>"Honestly, I am tempted to start coming up with paranoid accusations against the dock workers, but sadly I think they are at a point where they wouldn't catch the sarcasm. And even if they did, they wouldn't think it's funny."</Secretlanguage>

He then looks at the guards and gives a polite bow. "Thank you. Raichel and I would have felt a bit naked without our staffs."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:58, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

Raichel rolls her eyes to look up at the sky as she combs her fingers through her hair. Then, when the talking is done, she looks at the guards and nods in agreement with Timothius. "Yes. Thanks." she then looks at Mittens. "And thanks for translating."

She then looks at Meriele. "And thank you for offering to show us around. So far, this town has been relatively welcoming."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:02, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

Meriele says, "I am a servant of the gods." showing her holy symbol, hoping religion and superstition would hold more sway towards calming the others. "I will be quite alright and these three will not be the cause of trouble if I can help it."

To Raichel she gives a smile and a nod. "You're quite welcome."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:07, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

<SL>"Same here,"</SL> Mits agrees with her bro.

Mittens lifts her hand.  "Lift hand!"

"Welcoming compared to the typical 'Go away!' type greetings we sometimes get, yes.  Or worse yet, a volley of arrows."

The dock worker looks impressed with the holy symbol.  "Any chance I could talk you into touching that thing to their foreheads to prove they're not evil?"

Mittens can't help herself.  She slobbers all over her finger then points it at the dock worker.

"Tease!  Tease!  I'm gunna touch you with Shifter cooties!  Tease!"

The dock worker recoils and several of his co-workers laugh at him!  Even the soldiers look amused.

"You could lose a finger that way, missie," the jaded one warns.

Timothius says, "I too am a servant of the gods." he pulls out a symbol of pelor. "Allow me to demonstrate." he glows brightly. Then goes back to normal. "The officer is right, Mittens. Be careful."

Raichel says, "Yeah. He might bite you and turn you into a human."

Meriele says, "OK, OK... let's get you three familiar with town. Please... come with me."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:20, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

"LOL!" Mittens laughs, recoiling her finger swiftly just in case.

She arm-arounds her bro with a big grin.

"I'm proud of my glowie bro," she says, "He's so yay!"

She follows after the redhead.

"Name's Mittens, BTW.  This is Raichel and Timothius.  We're sibs!  So tell me... What's your name?  And what kinda paladin doesn't bother with plate armor or a shield?"

Tim side-hugs back.

Meriele answers, "My name is Meriele. I have known no paladin to forgo the use of armor."

Timothius says, "Cleric like me?"

Meriele answers, "No. I am what is known as an avenger. The wrath of the gods comes through me more than even invokers."

Raichel says, "Wrath? So you're a justice sort?"

Meriele says, "Yes."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:36, Mon 18 Apr 2011.

Mittens double-eyebrow raises.

"Re-heeeally?" she asks, "Well well well!  A bona-fide 'kill in the name of the gods' type!  Timothius here is the exact opposite.  He's a 'heal in the name of the gods' type.  Even heals badguys sometimes.  I can see this as being a bit of an issue if ever we wind up fighting villains together.  Slice to knock out if at all possible.  Or your efforts stand a good chance of being undone.  Unless you're so righteous that the gods suddenly take away his ability to heal that which you've slain."

Timothius says, "If killing your mark is more important to you than my heart, I will ask we not fight at each others' side, yes. But I recognize what you are and that you serve the gods. For my sake, please do not kill around me."

Meriele raises her eyebrows also. "Very well. For your sake. For the heart of one who is pure outweighs the need for any one villain's death. Or to put it in a more commonly known phrase; better that 100 guilty men go free than for 1 innocent to be imprisoned."

Raichel glances to Meriele. "...really. You believe in that?"

Meriele says, "I do. For the just should not be punished. And the guilty will be punished, whether it is today, or another day. There is no big hurry, but rest assured the gods are watching and they make sure the guilty are punished swifter... or at all."

Timothy nods. "Thank you."

"Well that went... better than expected," Mittens says, "Glad you agreed to refrain from the executions while around my bro.  At least he's not so far gone as to 'catch and release.'  Even I'm not that crazy.  If we catch a bad-guy, we hand 'em over to the authorities to deal with.  And yeah, I'd rather a lot more than 100 villains be splattered as a result if ever I have to sac myself."

The foursome comes upon the Antler and Thistle Tavern.  A lively conversation can be heard going on from inside.

Raichel says, "Sounds lively in there. I wonder what could be so exciting..."

Timothius says, "It's a tavern. A simple card could be all the excitement they need."

Raichel says, "You mean like someone cheating in a game?"

Tim nods.

Meriele says, "Be careful. If the excitement gets too hot, we may find ourselves in trouble. And I promised those guards I'd try to keep you bunch *out* of trouble."

Raichel says, "We need to check. If a fight *is* brewing, then we need to prevent it from happening."

The twins look over at Mittens. Meriele looks as well.

Mittens grins and thumbs up at the cuties looking to her for leadership.

"Excelsior!" she cheers before she marches up to the tavern door and boldly barges in!

The tavern is pretty standard.  Lanterns compensate for the lack of sunlight entering through the windows plastered with ads, shaded with awnings, blocked with blinds and curtains.  It's much cooler inside than outside, but still hot as the dickens.  The fireplace in the center has long since been left unused.  A lone dwarf silently sips his ale in the southeast corner.  Near the entrance a young couple exchange glances.  In the northeast corner, a noisy discussion between 3 card players suddenly turns to complete silence at the arrival of such strange visitors.

"You lost or something?" the bartender asks with a suspicious squint.

"As in GET lost!" one of the card players shouts.

  "It's a hot day with barely any seats filled, you sure you want to drive away a whole table's worth of customers from our host?"  Just like... Whoever it was two tables to the left of the card players was a narrative blank, so had been Kyle between there until just now.  A travel tanned Human with Brown hair matched by brown leather, crossbow at their side (the more melee oriented Girls would notice one leather glove thicker than the other from the bar).  Either clear adventurer or a guard taking a break.

  A bit of both would be the technically accurate case there.

  "I might offer a round, but I got my own expenses to deal with and cheap bastards haven't gotten around to paying me yet."

OOC Style:  For Style reasons May should be familiar with, Mr. Spiked Gauntlet has been replaced with a Talid.  Which is one of the many Dark Sun 'Identical except it has a different name and is made of leather and maybe chunks of animal or something' variety weapons.

  I'll get around to replacing Mittens Pyro's Arc Lightning after I eat something.

Having plenty of gold left, Meriele says to Kyle, "Thank you, sir. Do not worry about covering for us. Rather, let me cover for you."

She looks around at the people present, holding up a holy symbol. "Are you sure you would not rather that I, in the name or Erathis, buy a round of drinks?"

Meriele has a compelling argument. But these men do seem uptight and just vying for a fight. She isn't sure even being a religious lady is going to save the trio of cat-siblings from an inevitable fight.

Timothius can't help but find it ironic that Mittens, despite being all about fire, could make the room, or drinks, colder via prestidigitation. But he knows to keep quiet. ANYTHING he says could be construed as either a lie... or a threat.

"Customers?!" the card player scoffs, but before he can come up with a clever reply, Meriele offers free drinks.

"Well!" he says, his mood obviously improved, "Free drinks in the name of a god is still free drinks!"

"Well that was generous of you," Mits says to Meriele, "But very effective.  I'm impressed."

Tension melts as drinks are served.

"So what...  You like...  part of the circus or something?"

The gentle hubbub of an evening at the Antler and Thistle
tavern is shattered by the crack of the front door flying off
its hinges to land amid the nearest tables. Four hobgoblins
rush into the bar, swords outstretched to skewer the nearest
bar patrons. “For Sinruth! For the Hand!” they cry.

(( mits init 19 + 1 = 20))
((Meriele init 20+0 = 20))
((Raichel init 11+4 = 15))
((Timmy init 12 + 2 = 14))
((grunts init 7 + 4 = 11 ))
((Kyle Initi Durp 5))
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:39, Tue 19 Apr 2011.

Two of the grunts attack the couple seated closest to the door.  The gal screams and cringes, holding out her arms defensively as the grunt gashes her across the arm!  The guy springs to his feet to defend her, but the other grunt skewers him through his heart, killing him instantly!

The third rushes to the east, the fourth charges at Meriele and slashes her with his longsword!

(( Lol surprise round.  5 damage.  Merielle HP = 19 Lady Patron wounded, Boyfriend Dead. ))

"Villains!" Mittens shouts, "You'll pay for that!"

She rushes forward and unleashes her biggest fireball, incinerating two of the grunts!

(( Move from f10 to i14.  Burning hands defeats Grunt 2 and Grunt 4. ))

Meriele immediately retaliates on the one who hit her by unsheathing her sword. No really... she unsheathed the sword, hitting the guy with the hilt and knocked him out. She remembered her promise to the cleric shifter. But even as she does this, an aura of protective divine energy surrounds her.

(Minor: Oath on Grunt 1)
(Minor: Draw weapon)
(Standard: Bond of Retribution v Grunt 1. Hit. KO.)
(Move: Towards Grunt 3)
This message was last edited by the player at 06:12, Tue 19 Apr 2011.

Raichel is startled and looks from one part of the room to the next. She sees Mittens burn a couple, Meriele take one out, and then there is still one remaining. In fact, it's the one who skewered and killed the boyfriend. She holds her hand forward and lightning shoots from her! The grunt shutters from the shock and collapses to the ground unconscious.

(Standard: Lightning Strike v Grunt 3. Hit.)
(Move: To Patron to help Tim as needed.)

Tim hurries over to the patron with Raichel and, seeing the threat over, prays over the skewered patron. If there is anything to remove from the wound, Timothy would remove it. He looks around, hand still on the guy as he looks cautious.

(Move: To patron)
(Minor: Healing word on Patron. Bring Patron back to full HP before death can even fully settle. Besides... Patron hasn't had the chance to do a death save throw. XD)
(Standard: Readied Action: Astral Seal v first enemy to appear, just in case.)
This message was last edited by the player at 06:31, Tue 19 Apr 2011.

  Kyle sees carnage both commence, and finish before he even has a chance to swear in an uncreative manner.  So, at least no swearing then.  Of course, considering his view out the window from where he's seated... "*censored*, more of them outside."

  The sane thing to do would be head out the back door, its why he was within a double move of it after all... But sane doesn't always work out.  So instead he heads for the larger unoccupied table and tilts it over for a makeshift wall to the side of the cold fireplace.

---

Minor: Draw Sup Crossbow.
Move: double move out back exit Duh,
Standard: Tilt Table.

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 INF 2

"Legitimate Play", It's all fun and games until someone is permakilled right in front of you.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:46, Tue 19 Apr 2011.

"Billy!" the young lady screams as she embrases her lost loved one in her arms.  She just holds him and cries.

The craziness caused the card players to duck under their card table with a "Yikes!" or two.  The patron that was seated closest to Kyle flees out the back!  The bartender rushes to the back room to look for a weapon.  Lastly, the dwarf patron that was in the southeast corner grabs his chair and prepares to swing it at any more badguys that should come through the door.

Mittens spots the enemies outside and fires a fireball at them, defeating two!

"That one's got some fire weapon!" she shouts, "I'll teach it who's the fire power around here!"

Timothius' astral seal also hits the blackblade!  Mits fires another fireball, defeating the seventh grunt while the blackblade screams!  Mits then charges out the door!

(( Scorching burst hit, hit, hit!  ACTION POINT!  Scorching burst misshit thanks to astral seal!, hit!  22(max) damage!  Grunts 5-7 defeated!  Blackblade HP: 3  Move from i14 to i19.

The importance of whether objects and scenery count as "creatures" that "must" be attacked when throwing around fireballs is illustrated here.  The last scorching bursts would have exploded the torch in the blackblade's hand, and all the torches carried too. ))

Meriele heads over to finish off the blackblade and succeeds. With a swipe of her sword, then a deft twist of her wrist, she smacks him silly with the flat of the blade. Looking to her left, she sees more on the street. "There's more out here!" she calls over her shoulder. She is surrounded again with a radiant energy. Granted, it's not a glow that lights anything up, but it does kind of have a "warning, you will hurt if you attack me" about it.

(Move: To blackblade)
(Minor: Oath v Blackblade)
(Standard: Bond of Retribution v Blackblade. Miss, hit. Neener neener avenger.)
 dmg: doesn't matter. Minimum of 6 vs his 3 HP = KO

Blackblade HP: 3 - 6ormore = KO

Raichel says, "On it!" and hurries to the doorway. Even as she does, she calls over her shoulder, "Hold tight!"

Raichel shoots lightning and the bolt causes the nearest (yet far away) grunt to shutter, lightning bouncing from him to the other guy right next to him, knocking them both unconscious.

(Move: To doorway)
(Standard: Lightning Strike v Grunt 8. Hit.)
 Part of power is to choose another enemy within 10 and do 4 dmg to them.
 Chose Grunt 9.

Seeing how far away the enemy is, Timothius prepares himself for healing his sibs or Meriele should he need to. "That man back there is dead. There is nothing I can do for him right now. We need to make a stand and make sure these guys don't get the chance to enter again."

(Move: To the other three that aren't Kyle.)
(Standard: Ready Healing Word on any ally who drops to low enough HP to justify Surge+4+1d6 healing. None of my powers have enough range to bother readying this round.)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:12, Tue 19 Apr 2011.

  With the curiously clustered enemies all obliterated within an instant, Kyle passes Timothy as each of them head towards opposite ends of the Tavern, and levels his crossbow towards a window.  "I'm not exactly a Cleric, but I can give someone a boost if they need it.  Provided they pay it back later.  Think closer to Paladin, but I can take donations to keep healing people."

---

  Move: Duh
  Readied Action: Magic Weapon Vs Blackblade once they enter LoS through window.  I'll call initial shooting through class cover, so Kyle would only have a +6 Vs AC Shot.  If it hits, the Dwarven Patron(if they are still next to Kyle) gets the buffs.

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 2

The blackblade and grunt down the road rush closer!  Kyle sees them through the window and fires, but his bolt deflects harmlessly off the blackblade's leather armor.  The bartender emerges from his back room with a rake in hand, and he rushes toward the door!  The dwarf rushes out the door and hurries toward the enemy with a battlecry while the rest of the patrons keep doing what they'd been doing: crying, cowering, and running away.

"Burn!" Mittens shouts, firing another scorching burst that drops the grunt as she charges at the enemy!

(( Baddies, dwarf, and bartender double move.  Kyle readied attack missed.  Mits move from i19 to o25.  Scorching burst hit! hit!  Max damage again!  Grunt 10 KO.  Blackblade HP: 14 ))

Meriele hurries after Mittens and smacks the blackblade a good one. For half a second, he looks dizzy before he collapses in a heap. Meriele looks down the path, making sure nobody else is coming. She is silent, not ready to converse just yet until she is sure this team of villains is dealt with.

(Move: To N21)
(Move: From N21 to Blackblade)
(Minor: Oath)
(ACTION POINT)
(Standard: Relentless Attack v Blackblade 2. Hit!)
 dmg: exactly 14. XD

Blackblade2 HP: 14 - 14 = KO

Raichel calls out, "Thanks, everyone who helped! Are there more?" She too is cautious, her left hand sparking with electricity as she prepares for any others.

(Standard: Ready Lightning Strike for first enemy in 10.)

Tim calls out, "Yell if you need me!" and goes back to the table with the dead patron, looks sad. But then turns a furious gaze at the downed grunt who was responsible. He kneels down and tears the grunt's shirt off. "The authorities will know who murdered this man..." he then glances at Kyle. "Thanks for your help, sir."

(Move: To grunt/kyle/table)
(Standard: Shirt Ripper!)

  Kyle shrugs, "I'll accept thanks for my attempt at help at least.  This problem would have been solved just as fast if I wasn't even around.  Not that this is a bad thing."

  He heads next to the window and takes a look out at the end results, and comments "Your drink offering friend seems the most in need in of Medical attention that will still do any good.  Maybe one of you could grab that bolt in the grass while your near it, please?"  Hey, Ammo is Ammo.  And Meriele definitely took a heavier hit than the surviving lady of a customer.

  Hey, Kyle just met these people.  He can't quite eyeball the fact Meriele can full heal with a normal surge.

Move: Durp.
Minor: Reload.

Mittens upon seeing no further threat returns to her sibs and rests.

When the hobgoblins have been defeated, the surviving
bar patrons organize a bucket brigade from a
nearby well to quell the fire.

lol wut fire?  rawr.

 A clearly wounded city
watch patrol arrives as the bucket brigade douses the
last flames, and they quickly try to learn what’s happening
from anyone who speaks to them (probably
the PCs). This conversation gives the PCs enough time
to have a short rest before the next encounter.

"I hear shouts in the distance," Mittens comments.

"They're attacking in waves," one of the patrolmen explains, "Could be another group of them, but we're in no shape to confront them."

Mits looks expectantly at her sibs, getting up to head out.

Meriele picks up the bolt as requested. She offers it to Kyle as time allows. She heals up during the rest. While resting, she searches the bodies for ANY sign of who they worship. If there are markings of some evil deity or such. When the group is told of the waves of assault, Meriele nods and says, "Let's go."

(Used a surge to heal up to full. Curious if Perception 19 wields any clues on who they worship / who they work for. Meriele has a plan.)

Tim was going to heal Mer, but finds she is OK, so he instead heals the crying patron and makes sure the guards know about the ripped shirt. Then follows Mittens and Raichel.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:25, Wed 20 Apr 2011.

The hobgoblins all wear a symbol like the one shown on page 9 of the SoW player's guide.  If any character indicates not knowing the significance of the red hand, Mittens offers a history lesson on the way to the next fight.

  Kyle has live in Brindol for quite some time, so would not only know the Red hand's Significance, but could quote it alongside Mittens.  Though we're leaving that Text Paste to the in charge types tonight.  Of course, if Meriele has lived here, then she'd know as well.  Considering Diamond Day is about 'yaaay! Diamond League kicked their ass!' isn't it?

  He thanks the Avenger for his spare ammo, and follows after the small horde of PC's.  "While running is tempting, I have the feeling there is no proper place to run to in this situation."

"Run?  Tempting?!" Mittens asks in surprise, "Guess I had you figured wrong."

As you’ve been talking to the guards, you’ve been hearing
shouts in the distance. But now those shouts are a lot closer,
and a throng of townsfolk comes running around the street
corner to the north.
They’re fleeing a curious sight: a full-grown ogre pulling
a wagon by a yoke around its waist. The ogre holds a cask
in one hand and a massive club in the other. Riding atop the
wagon are two hobgoblins with bows.

(( Kyle 20+5 = 25 ))
(( Ogre Savage 15 + 4 = 19))
((Raichel init: 14+4 = 18))
((Timothy init: 16+2 = 18))
((Hobgoblin Archers: 5 + 7 = 12))
((Mits init: 6 + 1 = 7 ))
((Meriele init: 3+0 = 3))
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:14, Wed 20 Apr 2011.

  "Yeah, well unlike you I cant torch an entire crowd of people at once.  So standards seem to be on somewhat different scales between us for what's dangerous or not."

  It's around this time that the freaking Ogre rolls into the edge of Kyle's View "...That for example, is very dangerous."  This said, he calmly fires a bolt into the Ogre's shoulder despite the less than forgiving angle, and a distinct sizzling flesh noise comes with it.

  Kyle heads for the corner of the nearby dry goods store and makes an underarm tossing motion with a hand despite nothing thrown, but a moment latter a melon sized mechanical eye cheap CG effects assembles itself eight feet in the air, turning to face the Ogre.

  "Of course, I don't do to poorly in making it easier for someone else to deal with dangerous."

---

  Standard: Scouring Weapon Vs Ogre, Hits. 18 Acid DMG, -2 AC Until End Of Kyle's Next Turn.
  Minor: Reload.
  Move: Duh
  Action Point: Punishing Eye

  Since it's such a close thing (Exact hit with corner shot cover penalty).
http://rollr.appspot.com/view/...IIRGljZVJvbGwYnt5QDA

  Effects:  Ogre takes -2 AC (=17) Until End Of My Next turn... _{I just realized this only helps myself due to distance and timing <.<}   Punishing Eye: Enemies within 3 of Eye do not benefit from concealment.  When an Ally attacks an enemy within 3 of Eye and Hits, Enemy takes Int(4) Psychic DMG. I can move Eye 3 as a Move Action.

Ogre HP: 111-18= 93/111 (Bloodied 55)

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 2

"Ungh!" the Ogre roars when it's hit with a burning crossbow bolt!

It pitches a cask in retaliation!  The direction is dead on to hit Kyle, but just a liiittle bit too much power in the throw.  The cask flies over Kyle's head and explodes on the road behind him harmlessly, if a bit too close for comfort.  The ogre then lumbers forward.

(( pitch cask intended origin square: Kyle.  d8 result: 4.  southeast.  1d4-1 result: 2.  Just enough that kyle doesn't get caught in the blast radius!  Move 4 to the east. ))

Raichel gets covered in electricity, but meeps as she feels a tingle and the power fizzles. "We need to get rid of their ammo. My ability to push them just died out." she says, less frustrated and more "now what do we do?" <SecretLanguage>"Tim, blow them all away! Mitts, blow up their stuff with your fire when the enemy is clear!"</SecretLanguage>

Because, you know, blowing up the enemy WITH their own stuff, while awesome, could kill the enemy. Oh well. Who gives a flying flee.

(Standard: Thunder Slam v Archer 1. Epic fail.)
(Move: To be adjacent to Kyle)
This message was last edited by the player at 03:32, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

Tim heads over to the center of the battlefield and fires a ball of divine energy at the closer hobgoblin! Then Mittens feels even healthier than normal, feeling she could take a hit and still be at the top of her game!

(Move: To center)
(Standard: Sacred Flame v archer 2)
 dmg: 5
 +4 psychic from Kyle

Archer 2 HP: 39 - 9 = 30
Mittens HP: 23 + 4 = 27


Meanwhile.....

Ravenous, angry, hungry alligator is hungry for fail. It eats the fail, then regurgitates it out like FIRE!
  ____
 /    \
|  O   |
 \____/-------------------------.______________________________
______________________________________________________\
\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/

Tim moves out to the center of the battlefield and says, <SecretLanguage>"Mitts! Scoot closer to me! My power won't reach everyone otherwise!"</SecretLanguage> as he prepares to use the power Raichel suggested he use.

(Move: to R20)
(Standard: Ready Moment of Glory for when Mittens moves to be within 5 of Tim.)
 Side note: This would only require Mittens to move north 1 square

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\
______________________________________________________/
This message was last edited by the player at 05:44, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

The archer closer to Timothy fires an arrow and Tim gets hit. He winces, having *just* asked Mitts to step closer.

The other archer, however, lights a cask from the back and hands it over to the ogre, who looks ready to toss it.

(Archer 1: Using the 2 minors+standard to light cask and give to ogre.)
(Archer 2: Using standard to fire arrow at Tim. Hits. 9 dmg.)

Timothy HP: 22 - 9 = 13
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:36, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

"Tim!" Mittens shouts when she sees her bro get arrowed!

She bears her teeth and her eyes catch fire as she rushes forward to shield him!

"You'll pay for that!  BURN!"

Mittens points her staff and there's this weird sci fi sound effect as several spears of energy appear and converge on the second archer then detonate into a massive sun-like ball of fire that bakes him alive!  He screams in agony, the sound distorted by the intense heat!  So exceedingly hot is the fire, that the fuses on the nearby barrels spontaneously ignite!

(( Borrowing the visual effects from FFXI: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_PM32sU7H4  Ancient Magic BURST Flaming sphere CRIT!  17 damage +4Psychic  Archer 2 HP: 9 followed by 7 more damage to him and Archer 1 at the start of their turns.  7 fire damage to the cart, barrels, arrows, bows, gear, etc at the start of their turns which I guess is initiative 0. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

Meriele scurries over to the Ogre and her eyes go black with glowing red beeds in the center. Kinda like Robotnik. She takes her falchion and slices at the ogre, barely scratching the giant. "Drop it!" she commands the ogre. The ogre is still holding a cask, after all, and if he tosses it, that's a ranged attack and will provoke AoO. If he drops it where he stands, he could blow himself up.

(Minor: Oath on Ogre.)
(Move: From Q25 to S19)
(Standard: Charge Ogre! from S19 to R17. Hit thanks to Joe and Charge bonus!)
 dmg: 2. Rolled absolute minimum. BUT! 2 is better than a 1 minimum! >:D
 But haha +4 psychic dmg from Kyle

Ogre HP: ?? - 6 = ??
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

KABOOM!  The first of the ignited casks explodes, sending burning pitch everywhere!  The two nearby buildings are now on fire!

(( 12 damage to ogre, archer 1, and scenery.  6 damage to archer 2.  Ogre HP: 75  Archer 1 HP: 27   Archer 2 HP: 3  The archers no longer have usable bows or arrows.  If the flaming sphere didn't destroy 'em, the exploding cask did. ))
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:26, Thu 21 Apr 2011.

  Kyle, seeing the situation well in hand... As well as an exploding wagon can be considered such anyways, takes this time to step back and stamp out the blaze from the first thrown barrel.  "Worth the end result, but we'll be way too busy dealing with the aftermath of one big fire to deal with two fires."

---

Move: Duh.
Standard: Put out Fire at x25.

"Ungh!" the ogre shouts from it's injuries!

It swings it's huge club with such speed and force it spins Meriele completely around, making her unable to retaliate when it drops it's bomb and flees to the northeast!  The wagon of course follows, taking the two archers with it!

(( Standard: Angry Smash: 13 damage! (recharges on a 6) Meriele HP=11.  Free: drop bomb on the ground.  Move from q15 t13.  Meriele AoO miss, miss.  Now 2 Bombs will explode on initiative 0.

"The ogre
doesn’t flee outright—being yoked to the wagon makes
a retreat difficult in any case—but he might try to leave
the area if faced with fire." ))
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:37, Sat 23 Apr 2011.

Raichel hurries northward. "Meriele, get away from the cask!" She shoots some cover fire at one of the archers so Meriele can get away.

(Move: U23 to U17)
(Standard: Lightning Strike v Archer 1. Epic fail.)

Tim sees Meriel get clubbed pretty bad and says, "Don't give up, Meriele!" as he holds a hand forward and life-green energy flows over Meriele nearly healing her completely. He throws a white and gold fireball at the archer who deftly dodges.

(Minor: Healing Word. Rolled 2, so healed for 12 HP)
(Standard: Sacred Flame v Archer 1. Miss.)

The archers book it, realising the thing is about to blow. The most injured one has to carefully move away from Meriele though, lest she hit him. His caution doesn't allow him the time to turn to fire at her yet. However, the further hobgoblin doesn't have that problem and turns to fire at Mittens, the arrow thunking into the wagon instead of making it to Mittens. <Goblin>"Fire at the burny one!"</Goblin> he demands.

(Archer 2: Shift from R16 to S15, Shift from S15 to S14)
(Archer 1: Move from R15 to R9, shoot Mitts. Miss thanks to partial cover from wagon!)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:43, Sat 23 Apr 2011.

"Too close to the bomb, Raichel!" Mittens shouts!  She rushes over to cover her sister with her own body.  As she does so, the flaming sphere floats over to be next to the ogre!

(( Move from q20 to t17.  Minor, sustain. Move flaming sphere from o16 to s13.  Far from tactically sound, but Mits isn't going to let her sis die in a fire. ))

Meriele hurries over to the ogre, but even as she slashes, it's clear she is more focused on stay against the wall of the building than hitting her mark.

(Move: R17 to V15)
(Standard: Bond of Retribution v Ogre. Miss, miss. >.>)

Kaboom!  Kaboom!  Two big explosions in quick succession go off!  The ogre catches the worst of the first, but Mits, Raichel, and the archer are caught in the blast.  The archer keels over.  The second explosion hits Mits worse than the ogre or the archer's prone body.

^"Ow..." Mits says through gritted teeth.

(( 19 damage to Ogre. HP: 56.  12 damage to archer 2. HP: -9.  18 damage to Mits.  HP: 9.  6 damage to Raichel.  HP: 16 ))
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:34, Sat 23 Apr 2011.

  Kyle watches in half disbelief as Raichel, then Mittens go closer to the explosions.  And proceed to get exploded.  Okay, so maybe Meriele wasn't the one who needed a medic to follow them around most.  "I know it has already been stated more than once, by more than one person.  But seriously, move away from the exploding wagon.  Far enough that the Ogre can't chase you so it can take you with it.  Take cover, and take a breather" Second wind's all around are probably good option about now, if they can spare the second move action to safety.

  The clockwork eye floats after the Ogre while Kyle comes to a stop behind Timothy, taking a quick judgment of who got the most messed up in the past five seconds.  Mittens are Winner.  He gestures with a hand and a green line of light sweeps across Mittens, sealing up the more serious wounds.

  Not as strong as what she is likely used to from Tim, but it doesn't vamp a healing surge out of her either.  "I only got one more of those, and if my studies and guess are right he only has one more of his.  Please refrain from being blown up further, it is bad for your health."  Kyle doesn't quite manage to say that last part with a straight face.

---

  Move: Duh
  Move: Punishing Eye Q18 to S15
  Minor: Curative Admixture to Mittens, +6 HP.

  Mittens HP: 9+6= 15/23
  Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 1

  Only two more wagon booms left, then wagon becomes burning ouch difficult terrain.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:12, Sat 23 Apr 2011.

"Roar!" the Ogre roars, having been exploded multiple times!

The heat of Mittens' flaming sphere chars it's leg as it swings it's club at Meriele, but she ducks in time and it smashes only building wall!

(( 6 auto damage from flaming sphere.  fail.  move from t13 to s9.  Meriele aoo v ogre fail.  Ogre HP: 50 ))

Raichel cringes as she gets blasted with fire only to open her eyes and see Mitts being burned. "Mittens! I thought the fire didn't go that far!" she says in a "no fair" tone only to see the green light wash over and Kyle say his piece. "Thanks for the assist, Mister!"  Earlier, she saw the exploded cask only have a 5 to 8 foot radius. She really didn't expect the explosion to be any bigger. She looks over to see the ogre still trying to get away. Raichel fires another lightning bolt at the archer, this time not fizzling or overshooting or whatever, and the bolt zaps the ogre as well! Then Raichel arm-arounds Mittens to head south again.

(Standard: Lightning Strike v Archer1. Finally hit!)
 dmg: 9 (woulda been 13, but chose to send some dmg over to ogre)
 dmg: 8 to ogre
(Move: from U17 to S20, but is still at U17 until Mittens moves with. Moving together in other words)

Archer 1 HP: 27 - 9 = 18
Ogre HP: 50 - 8 = 42
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:58, Sat 23 Apr 2011.

Tim doesn't waste time and as Raichel comes towards him, he heals himself with some first aid. Then whispers something as healing power washes over Mittens. Kyle's suggestion of spending a whole round on second winds is not needed. "They're out of my reach, but there's a big cart of explosives preventing me from any form of offensive. I'll just focus on helping you all recover while you continue blasting them from a distance."

(Standard: Second Wind.)
 +2 Tim's defenses.
(Minor: Healing Word on Mitts. Healed to full.)

He'll be using his next standard to heal Raichel with a heal check. Which is DC 10, so he'll auto-succeed.

The remaining archer moves to the southwest and shoots Mittens which pierces her chest!

"By the gods!  How is it still standing?!"

(( move from r9 to o11.  arrow hits and deals 8 damage.  Mittens HP: 15 ))

Mittens hisses through her teeth when hit with the arrow.

Not worth the pain of talking to give a witty reply, she thinks, But I'm more impressed that that wagon is still in one piece.

After moving to Timothius as requested, she gives a thumbs-up to the healers.  She then gives a rude gesture to the archer, and a hand of force flies out of the ground, uppercutting him between the legs!

(( Move from t-17 to r19.  Magic Missile 6 damage.  Archer 2 HP: 12 ))
This message was last edited by the player at 01:54, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

Meriele hurries back to the others to regroup. She answers the hobgoblin's astonishment, "It is by the gods that she is standing. I and this shifter boy here are channelers of the divine!"

She holds her falchion at the ready, preparing herself to defend until she gets a chance to close in on her prey again without a pile of explosives following him around.

(Move: From V15 to Q20)
(Standard: Full Defense)

Nobody was in range enough for me to charge without putting myself in mortal danger of explodey things.

Kaboom!  Another barrel of fire explodes!

(( 6 damage to Ogre and Tailor's front door.  Ogre HP: 44 ))

  Kyle just kind of 'What?' faces at Meriele's churchly proclamations, then just shakes his head slightly 'At least the other girl noticed this isn't exactly a Divine show being run here.'  He follows up Mittens Johnny Cage Special with a crossbow bolt striking the enemy archer right through the chin...  Lip piercings probably aren't traditionally meant to pierce your chin, and jawbone.

  Something about that shot, but 3 out of five PC's are suddenly having a really good feeling about their next attacks.

---

  Move: Duh
  Standard: Magic Weapon Vs Archer 1, Hits, 11 DMG.
  Minor: Reload.

  Effects: +1 To-Hit, +3 DMG Roll, to the next Attack Timothy, Raichel, and Mittens Make before the End Of Kyle's Next Turn.

  Archer 1 HP: 12-11= 1

  Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 1

  Only 1 more Wagon Boom left
This message was last edited by the player at 02:36, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

"Ungh!" the ogre groans, running from it's wagon of doom!  The wagon makes chase.

(( Double Move from s-10 to o2 ))

Raichel says, "Fall!" and shoots lightning at the archer, downing it. The lightning then travels from him to the ogre, hurting it still more!

(Move: S20 to Q14)
(Standard: Lightning Strike v Archer 1. Hit.)
 dmg: 1d8+3 (got 8 total)
 dmg to ogre: 8 (4 from power and 4 from transfering Storm Power bonus)

Archer HP: 1 - 8 = KO
Ogre HP: 44 - 8 = 36

Tim follows Raichel and tends to her wounds, healing her up a a bit.

(Move: R20 to P15)
(Standard: Heal check on Raichel)

Raichel HP: 16 + 5 = 21

(( Move to q13.  6 MM damage.  Ogre HP: 30 ))

Also, Mer double-moves from Q20 to Q8
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:27, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

Move: Duh
Standard: M Weapon vs Ogre, hits. 7 Dmg.
Minor: Reload

Ogre HP: 30-7= 23

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 inf 1.

Effects: Mittens, Raichel, get Magic Weapon Buff.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:20, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

Explosion also posts out of initiative order.  Kaboom!  The wagon is finally destroyed!

(( 11 damage. Ogre HP: 12 ))

"You dead now!" the ogre boasts now that it's free of the exploding wagon.

It rushes south and 1-shots Merielle!

(( move.  CRIT!  25 damage.  Meriele HP: -2 ))

Mer collapses in a heap and Raichel frowns. She yells, "Forgetting someone?! Fall!" and shoots lightning at the ogre, downing it.

Tim immediately goes to heal up Mer. Combat being over now, he can take-ten and thus stabilize her. He scriggly-faces upon seeing her light-blue skin and cotton-candy pink hair. "What in the world..?"

(Rai standard: Lightning Strike v ogre. Hit.)
 dmg: 13

Ogre HP: 12 - 13 = KO

(Tim move then standard: heal check)

Tim is just making sure she won't die and then following up with helping her regain HP from there.

Meriele HP: -2 + heal check = 6 ......alligators! _\^ojojooo>
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

Mits moves over to the archer who harmed her bro and starts to bandage it.

"This one's still alive, bro," she says, "But only just barely.  I think it's seconds from dead.  And my fail skill isn't helping any."

Ow.  Stupid arrow sticking out of chest.  Time to pull a Rambo.

(( Heal check not enough to stabilize the dying archer.  Dismiss flaming sphere. ))

  Kyle, now that Meriele is out of danger of Immediate death, applies more Not-Divine-At-All healing, bringing the Avenger out of negatives and into consciousness.  "Glad to see you at least came out of this alive, it not unharmed."

  He puts his Crossbow away, and gets to work helping out with the whole 'put out fires' thing. </small>
This message was last edited by the player at 07:12, Sun 24 Apr 2011.

Tim helps the injured while the not-so-injured help with fires until the fires are put out. Once that is all done, Tim takes a rest with the others. "Well that was wild. That can't be all of them... can it? Did they expect the whole town's guard would be just a few guys? ....IS the whole town's guard just a few guys?"

Raichel was one of the ones not injured enough to warrant not helping, so she helped with putting out fires. Now resting with the others, she responds to Tim's thought, "I'm sure the hobgoblins struck at a less-guarded gate or even bribed a guard or two to help them sneak in. The idea was to cause damage, it seems, and to that end, they were successful. But we made them a lot less successful and made them pay."

Monster Bug Wars Narrator adds in a multi-voice "WITH THEIR LIVES!"

Raichel and Timothy both turn to look at Kyle right then and say in unison, "Thanks, by the way." then look at each other and giggle.

Meriele is fully recovered around the time the fires are put out. "My apologies that I was unable to help with the fires. A bit pre-occupied with my injuries. Thank you for your aid, my friends... I'm afraid without you folks here today, not only would I have died, but this village may have been lost. You all are heroes."

Mits spent most of the aftermath in silence, even after the arrow is no longer making talking a painful thing.  She just grins and thumbs-up to commentary.

A crowd gathers after the PCs defeat the ogre, and
more guards arrive a few minutes later. They immediately
ask for the PCs’ help defending the bridge.
But by the time the PCs reach the bridge, Sinruth’s
band has already retreated. The residents of Brindol
spend the rest of the night putting out the fires that
the goblins set, tending to the wounded, and keeping
a nervous watch from the ramparts.

The next morning, the full extent of Sinruth’s
attack is known, including the captives taken and the
treasures stolen from the Hall of Great Valor. At that
point, the PCs receive a summons from Councilmember Eoffram Troyas.

"Well," Mittens says, "This tells me that we've earned some respect.  Hopefully more 'don't let them bite you' comments will be much fewer from now on."

Tim occasionally checks on Mitts and Mer's injuries. In both cases, they are fine since, you know, game mechanics. AND a full nights' rest. Doesn't stop Tim from checking. Then the player realizes he should let Kyle post... XD

  "It can be a bit hard to tell, considering throwing exploding barrels ended up pretty effective in a general sense and not just a property damage sense."  Even when they were hurting the ogre, they were still hurting PCs.

  He looks over to Meriele as she says her piece, and comments "The thanks are appreciated, but you have nothing to be sorry for. Just calling your sudden and violent case of blunt trauma 'injuries' is selling what you went through short.  I think I would rather have been caught in one of those explosions."

  Time pass now Go Go Next Day!

  Kyle would expect more along the lines of 'I hope they don't light us on fire', as well as 'oh, they only have staffs! you said, Idiot' if he was anywhere near that exchange.  "Only idiots would be that picky over who saves them.  "Unfortunately, lot of idiots in the world."

Mits nods and leads the way to the place indicated by the invitation.

Troyas is a somber man, who speaks carefully and
methodically.

As Councilmember Eoffram Troyas greets you solemnly,
he makes eye contact with each of you in turn. “I am
considering something, and I wished to speak to you about
it in person—and in private.”

He takes the heroes to a private meeting room and explains he's looking to hire a group to both rescue the townsfolk taken prisoner and the stolen museum pieces.

"You weren't the only group of adventurers who helped stave off the attack yesterday.  Tell me why I should hire you over them."

Skill Challenge
Level: 1.
XP: 200
Complexity: 2 (requires 6 successes before
3 failures).
Primary Skills: Diplomacy, Insight, History.
Diplomacy (DC 15)
Insight (DC 15)
History (DC 13) (Can only be attempted after a successful Diplomacy Check)

"Timothius here will speak for me and Raichel," Mittens answers.

(( Mits is not attempting any skills yet.  And by the way, rolls onry.  No take-10 allowed.  For this or any future skill challenge in this thread.  All skill checks that don't meet the DC are considered a failure.  Even a failed insight where your character says nothing. ))

Tim looks at Mittens when she puts him on the spot. He asides to Mittens and Raichel and whispers, <Secret Language>"We're going to look for those people whether he hires us or not, but if he hires one group and not others, the money is going to make people jealous and teams of adventurers will compete..."</Secret Language> Then looks at Troyas. "Why only one group? Why not send all of them?"

He doesn't mention about going without being paid yet. First, he would only be speaking for his siblings and not for Mer or Kyle. Second, well, he doesn't want to pass up a chance for pay if it's possible they WILL get rewarded with more than a thank-you. Goody-two-shoes or no, Tim isn't stupid.

(OOC: Didn't know if I had to roll since Tim's asking a question. So I rolled just in case. Diplomacy roll: 11 + 8 = 19 )

Councilman Troyas lets out a sigh.  "A number of reasons," he answers, "First because the larger the number, the more likely the enemy is to be alerted to the approach of an enemy and respond in full force.  Or worse, use the prisoners as living shields.  Second, because we simply do not have the funds to hire a larger group.  Third because the Council has decided that only a group that has proven to each other that they can rely on each other in combat can be trusted to not fall apart when the going gets tough.  Larger groups have a greater chance of a cut-throat or turncoat willing to turn on the others for a larger share of the reward or an enemy bribe.  The Council was reluctant to authorize sending adventurers at all.  Ironic considering our history."

Raichel knows she isn't as good with diplomacy as Timothy and opts to stay quiet. Though to his whispered points, she nods.

As she listens to Troy give his answer, Raichel mutters, <Secret Language>"The fact we're siblings will prove we won't stab each other in the back, but it won't prove we wouldn't stab Kyle or Meriele in the back."</Secret Language>

Meriele looks like she is going to speak, but seeing Mittens put Tim forward and seeing the point he already brought up, she decides to be silent until Tim's words start to fail.

  "Considering the final task of the Diamond league came as a surprise to almost everyone during a large scale siege, I'm surprised authorization was something they felt they could dictate at all.  Though if there truly is a group you feel more qualified, send them.  Those of us here would probably still be open to requests should they fail."

  OOC Style: Tim pulled off a Diplo, so Kyle History Check= 17
This message was last edited by the player at 23:42, Tue 26 Apr 2011.

<SL>"Is it just me, or does this guy bear a resemblance to Sam the Eagle?"</SL> Mits asks rhetorically.

(( Mits failed her aid-other for the insight DC.  2 Successes, 0 Fails so far.  Tim, please post Meriele and Raichel making some kind of Aid-Other check before you post Timothius.  Aiding Timothius with Diplomacy makes some sense, but play your characters as you see fit.  As mentioned in OOC, if they succeed a DC 10, that's a +2 to Tim's next Check.  If they fail, no loss.  Doesn't count as a fail for the skill challenge.  But according to the rules, each character must, must, must (yes they use the word "must" 3 times) make a skill check each round. ))

Tim glances at Raichel then ear-perks at Kyle. He looks back at the councilman. "This town needs its funds, so paying up front wouldn't make sense anyway. Especially if the team you pay dies and you just gave the enemy money indirectly. So. My siblings and I will be going regardless. I'm confident in our ability to find and retrieve the captives. Hire another group if you wish, or don't. Deny our having anything to do with you, or don't. Whatever is best. But bear in mind we are new to the area... so I would at least like anything you can give us for being able to find them. Such as a map, last known enemy location, stuff like that."

He asides to Mittens and Raichel, <Secret Language>"This town is suffering from a nasty blow. I'd feel guilty taking their money to begin with. So let's show this guy we can earn that money before we even talk about being payed."</Secret Language>

(Meriele Insight aid: 13)
(Raichel Diplomacy aid: 17. Good thing. Tim needed it.)
(Tim Diplomacy check: 13. +2 from Rai = 15.)

  "*Relevant Historical Factoid*. Yeah, we went there... Man our quality took a nosedive.  "I suppose waiting for someone else to screw up and leave the job half done, while potentially effort saving is not a very professional way to conduct business."

  Of course, there are some who would consider 'you survived' the height of professionalism.

OOC Style: History check, 16.
  Usefulness Retcon: Failed Aid-Other.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Thu 28 Apr 2011.

(( I failed to mention important detail listed in the module that would have prevented the quality nosedive. :/

History (DC 13): You make an insightful remark
about the attack 10 years ago. This is available only
after one character has gained a success using the
Diplomacy skill, and it can be used only once in this
way during the challenge.

Sorry about that.  If it's not too much trouble, since this was caught within 1 post...
Fail gator is feasting lately. -.-
But in my defense, it's noming on the challenge itself, too.  Only 2 relevant skills in this challenge, really.  So... yeah.  It goes without saying this is all Timothius with the rest of us shooting for that DC10 to aid him. ))

The Councilman perks an eyebrow at Timothius and Kyle's assertions, and looks a little annoyed at certain points of the conversation.

"Best chance you have at getting the enemy location is if one of you happens to be a skilled interrogator and can do a better job at questioning our healthiest prisoner than our law enforcers did," he answers, "A map can be supplied, but we only have details on places we have civilized.  I doubt their launching their attacks from anywhere we have a map for.

"I approve of your suggestion that you be compensated after success.  I'm a bit concerned about two groups going after the same goal.  Competition may muck up the works."

(( 3 Successes, 0 Fails ))

Mits notices the non-verbal cues given by both the Councilman and Meriele and ahahs.

"We call it 'the language,'" Mittens explains, "It's a mix of our tribal tongue and a lot of inside jokes that me, my bro, and my sis developed over our many years together.  Roughly translated to Common, what I just said was, 'Boogey, Boogey, Boogey!'  Which to us means, 'This guy's a serious councilman with serious frosting, serious sprinkles, and a serious cherry on top.'"

Troyas gives a long, cold stare, followed by a reminder about the nature of the threat to Brindol.  Mittens nods in reply.

"I can tell you'd rather us not use a language you don't understand among ourselves.  So we won't."

The Councilman looks satisfied.

(( Another "just barely."  Thank you, Meriele.  4 Successes, 0 fails. ))

Timothy looks annoyed by the councilman, but takes a breath before translating his own, "I was basically saying: This town is suffering from a nasty blow. I'd feel guilty taking their money to begin with. So let's show this guy we can earn that money before we even talk about being payed. Didn't want to sound like someone boasting about humility or embarrass you, so..."

Raichel says, "Psst. Tim. Topic."

Meriele looks over at Tim and bites the corner of her lip before going to display Tim's holy symbol to the councilman. "This young man has been treated unfairly since he got to town, nearly detained just for being born. Please forgive his frustration."

Tim sighs and asks, "Have you spoken with other groups already? If so, what did they say?"

(Tim Diplomacy. Rolled horribly low. Rolled 4 for a 12 total. Raichel and Meriele aiding Tim. Would you believe I rolled 5 twice? Yeah, neither really helped.)

"Yes I did speak with them," the Councilman answers, "But that conversation is confidential.

"Treated unfairly?  How so?"

(( 4 successes, 1 fail. ))

Mittens pounds her knuckles down on the Councilman's desk and puts on an enormous toothy grin.  Her neck grows in length as her head divides into two monstrous dragon heads!  ( http://isaacoster.com/wordpres...09/willow_dragon.jpg )

"Don't trust 'em!" one of the dragon heads says through it's grinning teeth, blink-blinking several times, "They'll seduce you with song before they drag you into the water to eat your face off!  Roamf!"

It then inflates it's chin sack and follows up with spewing fire to the side.

"Don't be silly," the other head says, "Everyone knows that's harpies.  These three look nothing like fish.  See?  Legs!  Pfthbtbt!"

It also inflates it's chin sack, but before it can spew fire, a mini barbarian stabs it through it's mouth!  The head explodes, and Mittens returns to normal.  The councilman stares in shock.

(( Double Complete Super Epic Aid-Other Diplomacy Check Fail!  1-1=ZERO! ))

  http://picardfacepalm.com/

OOC Style: assist Fail.

Timothius is in tears, trying not to crack up as he can't believe Mittens did that. He says, "...what she said. In a less exaggerated manner. The dock workers thought we were going to bite them and turn them into cat people, so they ran scared and got guards. Who asked us to surrender our weapons. Which sounded fair to me and we were about to, but our compliance convinced them we could keep our weapons."

He takes a breath. "What else do you need to know about us, sir? What can we tell you about ourselves that you wish to know that will help you decide on this group?"

((Diplomacy roll: 17 + 8 = 25))
(( 5 successes, 1 fail. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Fri 29 Apr 2011.

The Councilman groans and facepalms after Timothius' explanation.

"Apologies for the superstition of some residents," he says, "I'll admit limited knowledge on your race, but you've proven yourselves trustworthy..."

He glances at Mittens.

"If very strange.  As you say you'll be going anyway.  The only thing that needs be decided is if you go with my and the council's endorsement.  There's nothing you could tell the enemy that would matter if you're captured and questioned, so I suppose what last thing I need to know is what level of restraint I can expect from you all."

"Oh you think that strange," Mittens answers, with a mischievous grin, "You don't know the half of it!  Check out this popular shifter love song..."

She begins to sing the following complete with facial gymnastics: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOoie9_YdAw

(( YAY more epic fail!  XD ))

  Kyle is like, 40 seconds from slowly leading Mittens out the door, handing her a lollipop, patting her on the head, and telling her to sit there and wait like a good girl if this doesn't ease up.  "Well, I have yet to cause an intercultural incident the years I've done trading caravan guard duty between here and Astrazalian.  But that's quite a bit different than this sort of thing."

OOC: 17 on Aid Other, success.

Timothy says, "Mittens, he just asked us about restraint. Please demonstrate."

He then looks at the councilman. "My siblings and I have an agreement to always knock out when possible, rather than kill. It's practical, because a dead man tells no tales. It's moral, because you never know when someone is under mind control. And it's just, because the law should be who decides to put criminals to death. When possible, of course."

Meriele nods, "I am witness to this fact. Not only did they show restraint when defeating our foes earlier, but when I first met them, they asked me to refrain from killing anyone. For Tim's sake of nothing else. I respected their wish since I respect the feelings of those who serve the light over the pleas of my enemies to have their heads removed by my sword."

(16! Final success! Skill challenge done! Wheee!)

(( Success: Troyas gives the PCs the deal outlined
above, as well as the promise of “whatever aid the
good people of Brindol can muster.”

There is no "deal outlined above" that I could find.  At least not on the same page.  NINE pages earlier is the only mention of the council offering money for success:

Major Quest—Rescue
Rescuing the prisoners from Rivenroar amounts
to a major quest. The PCs don’t earn the quest
XP until the prisoners’ fate has been determined,
and those still living returned to Brindol.
Reward: 500 XP (and 200 gp if the prisoners
are returned).

Minor Quest—Treasure
Returning the stolen items described in The Treasure
to Brindol results in the PCs fulfilling the quest
conditions and earning the XP.
Reward: 100 XP (and the 200 gp promised in
The Treasure). ))

"Let's go question the prisoner, then," Mits suggests, "Prolly won't get anything outta him that the guards didn't, but nothing ventured, nothing gained."

She waves goodbye to the Councilman and heads out.

  Kyle somehow doubts that the 'good people of Brindol' will be any more helpful to their current situation than they ever were for him when he was playing caravan guard.  Of course, even an empty promise of help was better than nothing.

  He follows along, because it's hard to stick with the party if you don't do that.

Meriele looks over at her allies as they head for the prison. "I have an idea on how to get the location of the enemy camp. I'll need to speak with the guy in charge of the prison, though. If I can get clearance to do what I have in mind, then we will have a very good chance."

Tim asks, "Does it involve killing the prisoners as a pre-emptive "sentence" for their crimes?"

Meriele says, "Actually, it requires a prisoner to be alive."

Tim huhs...

Raichel says, "Gonna keep us in suspense?"

Meriele nods. "I have a secret I'd rather not reveal if I don't have to. But if the authorities permit me to use it, then I'll share."

"If she's thinking what I think she's thinking, I doubt they'll allow it," Mits says, "But I've no idea what this mysterious secret is.  I could guess, but eh...  I'm curious... Human with crossbow who's name I've forgotten...  Why you tagging along?  Meriele kinda makes sense with her 'must punish enemies of the gods I like' way of life.  But you mentioned earlier not wanting to get killed.  I'm trying to figure out what's your motivation for going on a potentially suicidal mission with a mere 400 gold split 5 ways as the promised reward.  Not exactly retirement haul amounts there."

The PCs arrive at the town green.
Just as the guards said, there’s a lone hobgoblin in stocks
and shackles here. His wounds from last night’s battle have
been bandaged, but a number of tomatoes on the ground
near him and on the surface of the stocks indicate that his
treatment hasn’t been completely kind.
He takes one weary look at you and says, “I ain’t saying
nothin’ unless you people let me go.”

Features of the Area
The Town Guards: The two guards here have
been given simple orders by the town council: Keep
the prisoner alive . . . but keep the prisoner. They do
not consent to letting him out of the stocks.

Stocks: The hobgoblin is shackled with his head and
arms through the stocks. Breaking him free requires
either the use of the guards’ key or the PCs must somehow
pick the lock without the guards noticing. Then it
takes a standard action to let Morrik out of the stocks.

  "You don't spend a good span of time guarding expensive trade goods on the road without realizing that personal risk is an obvious an inevitable part of the business.  But it's not pointless risk, old and worn moral values citations aside.  As for this, oh, right. It's real good for business all around if Brindal burns while I stand there watching.  I'd much prefer if someone more qualified was available to deal with the hassle, but sometime the most qualified sucker is yourself."

  He shrugs, "Of course, I may have misunderstood your meaning.  Someone saying they don't want to die seems appalling to you through multiple statements.  You in this business looking for death?  I've met more than a few like that, some of them were still smiling when they got it.  Can be surprisingly professional at times up until that point in some cases."  Le Gasp! They don't want to die?  The filthy coward!

  Kyle doesn't pry into Meriele's plan, if it works it works.  If not then it's just wasting their time to go over it at the moment.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:33, Sat 30 Apr 2011.

Meriele goes to the guards. "Greetings. We have been officially hired by Eoffram Troyas to find and rescue the captured citizens... Is there some place away from the prisoner where I can talk with you? Or perhaps with your superiors? I have a plan, but it requires cooperation of the law." the last part, obviously said quietly.

Tim and Raichel stay by Mitts' side. Tim is giggling. <SL>"Much as I have to insist you not do that again, that weer impersonation was HILARIOUS!"</SL>

"Well what I have to compare you to is the storybook heroes who don't think about personal risk at all," Mits answers the name-forgotten human, "I meant no disrespect, just curiosity.  I agree that protecting your home is a good enough reason to be a hero, but most have a much stronger fear of personal injury than yourself and qualified or not will not be doing as much as you already have.  So bravo.

"As for my own recklessness, I do not wish death on anyone but the deserving, and I'm just arrogant enough to consider myself to not be deserving.  Sorry for the loss of your co-workers."

Mits impish grins at her bro and shrugs, her tongue barely peeking out between her teeth.  "Sorry, bro.  You know how hard it is for me to hold back.  I'll try to behave.  But I'm glad I was able to put a smile on your face."

She reaches to glomp her sibs.

<SL>"What was that guy's name again?"</SL>

The guards look attracted to Meriele and rock-paper-scissors for the priviledge of spending alone time with her.

"Name's Bill," the guy says with a smile, offering a handshake, "What can I do for you, beautiful?"

  "Considering what the interrupted holiday is in celebration of, traditional selfless according to the books storybook heroes would probably be more on everyone's mind more than usual."  Diamond Day! They were so heroic they got a holiday.

  "As for deserving, co-workers might have, that guy in the Tarvern didn't.  Deserving doesn't hold up. It just makes people want it to happen more."

Raichel responds to Kyle and inserts his name to answer Mittens' question since there aren't foreign language words for names, "It is good to have you at our side, Kyle." she gives a light bow.

Timothy nods. "Yeah. Thanks again. I think we all need to sharpen our skills a bit. In retrospect, there was a lot I could have done to decrease injury. But the heat of battle has a way of scrambling your thoughts."

Raichel says, "We'll talk strategy on the way to the hobgoblin camp."

Meriele smiles and bows to the guard. "Thank you for your flattery, Bill. My name is Meriele. I wonder how possible it would be to release the prisoner in order to follow him back to his hideout. It's the easiest and most guaranteed way to find the captives and, well, I believe I can persuade the hobgoblin to lead me and my allies straight there."

Mittens ahs when she hears the guy's name again.  "Deserving doesn't hold up?  Oh!  You mean in practice.  Yeah.  Unfortunately, this is all too true.  I aim to alter this reality to my liking as much as I can.  Blowing up the deserving badguys to defend the undeserving... bystanders... wait... that doesn't sound right.  Good good!  Bad bad!"

The guard puts on a pathetic "darn it!" look and shakes his head.  "Sorry.  No can do.  The captain gave us a long lecture about how if this prisoner gets away it'll crush what little morale the town has.  There's no way he'd agree to your plan, willing enemy or no.

"But perhaps you can convince him with the promise of reduced punishment?  Most of his surviving allies were executed.  This guy was spared because he wasn't actively attacking.  Just a scout.  His sentence hasn't been decided yet, so...  He might be desperate enough to believe that you can prevent his execution in exchange for the location of the enemy base.  I can play along with whatever you come up with."

  Kyle says "I'm sure what your trying to say is the preferred situation for many people, not just yourself Mittens.  As for skill sharpening, hardly a time where some can't be used.  But you all came out of the explosions alive, which is better than many would have managed."

Meriele gets a confident smile and says, "...yes... yes, I believe I could. Thank you for being so helpful, Bill." she bows again before heading back over to the prisoner. "Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, Tim, but this is the only hobgoblin left alive. The others have already been executed for their crimes."

Tim says, "...."

Meriele looks over at the hobgoblin. "You, however, are suspected only of being a scout I understand. I certainly tried to persuade Bill here to let me set you free, but well he's under strict orders. However... you are still alive. And sentence on you hasn't been passed. A word from the heroes and the guards as witnesses could go a long way. Do you know what this is?"

She shows the hobgoblin her symbol of Pelor. "It's a holy symbol of Pelor with which I channel his power. And in front of you, my allies and these guards, on this symbol and the name of Pelor, I swear I will ask for the council to spare your life and get a light sentence... if you simply tell us where your group took the captives."

Skill Challenge
Level: 1.
XP: 200
Complexity: 2 (requires 6 successes before 3
failures).
Primary Skills: Bluff, Diplomacy, History,
Intimidate.
Bluff (DC 20): You try the threat of extensive violence
or long imprisonment. If you convince the guards
to play along, you receive a +5 bonus to the check.
Diplomacy (DC 15): You try to cut a deal. If the
guards hear you directly offer Morrik his freedom,
they’ll tell Morrik, “You aren’t getting away, hobgoblin.”
That closes off this approach.
History (DC 13): You ask about the crimson hand
insignia on the hobgoblin’s tunic in an effort to make the
hobgoblin to open up about Sinruth’s band and its plans.
Intimidate (DC 15): You use subtle or overt
threats involving Morrik’s safety. A failure means that
Morrik doesn’t respect you as a warrior; it closes off
this approach and increases the DCs of other checks
by 2 for the duration of the challenge.

Kyle Edit: First three Kyle History Rolls:
12(will pass with one aid) (Mits aid fail), (Meriele aid success)
11(will pass with one aid) (Mits success!), (Meriele Aid doesn't matter)
22 (success), (Meriele Aid doesn't matter)

Tim Edit: Tim Diplomacy Rolls: (Ouch! Two CRITS!)
1: 20 + 8 = 28 (success) (Raichel Aid doesn't matter)
2: 20 + 8 = 28 (success) (Raichel Aid doesn't matter)
3: 7 + 8 = 15 (success) (Raichel Aid doesn't matter)

6/6 successes, 0/3 fail
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:03, Sat 30 Apr 2011.

The goblin gulps.

"Only one left?!" he answers, squirming.

He calms himself and eyes the holy woman's symbol with contempt.

"Bah.  Your gods and oaths mean nothing to me.  You're lying!"

Mittens goes to side-hug her bro and whispers to him, "You're up, lil bro.  If anyone can make a believer outta him, it's you."

"Happen to know any relevant historical bit that'd prove that Pelor types are full of honesty, Mr. Kyle?"

  "Unfortunately, Religion is not a normal study of mine.  Though it's probably safe to say making such claims in front of the law enforcment and breaking them would go about as well as this guy doing so about Gruumsh in front of his fellows."

Meriele assists Kyle's assessment. "Kyle here has a point. If you swore to your god in the presence of your allies, would they not slay you where you stood if you broke your oath?"

Tim glows. Can you tell his player likes taking the Light of Order feat? It's more important to glow than to have +1 to attack or AC. :p

He walks closer to the hobgoblin and says, "Believe this then: Oaths or not. Gods or not. The deal remains the same. You either help us. Or die."

"What's up" Vegeta would be proud.

Tim continues, "I don't want you to die. I didn't want your friends to die. Everyone here can bear witness to the fact that the reason there were executions at all is because I insisted on no killing. If we had killed them, there wouldn't be need to execute because they'd be dead already. YOU still have a chance. And trust or not, lies or not, a chance is better than NO chance."

Raichel says, "I hope you choose life. There is so much more left for you to see..."

"Tsh," the hobgoblin hisses, looking away from the glowing shifter, "You don't understand.  There's things worse than dying.  Sinruth is going to raise an army and carve out a fiefdom of his own.  He has undead.  Undead horrors.  The bargain is that he supplies them with live victims in exchange.  Prisoners... or traitors."

He shudders.

Mittens snorts.  "An army?  Like the Red Hand?  They were much more impressive, and they fell to this town.  Yesterday's results prove that Sinruth doesn't stand a chance.  It won't be long before his undead turn on him."

  "While the Red Hand did tear itself apart in the end, I do not think those results were quite so literal as that ogre being blown up by it's own weapons."

Tim gets in close to look the hobgoblin in the eyes. "You would have to be dead for them to make you undead. Which they will do if I so much as suggest to them you betrayed their location when I see them. I really hate having to resort to these kinds of... threats. But the fact is I would sooner you be turned to undeath than the catives from this town. So I have to promise you I will tell them you are a traitor when and if I see them. I really don't want to. So. Give me a reason not to tell them that."

Raichel says, <SL>"Yeesh... Tim, are you sure? You OK?"</SL>

Tim just glances at Raichel with a grim look and nods. Then looks back at the hobgoblin.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:43, Sat 30 Apr 2011.

"We are the descendants of the Red Hand!" Morrik insists, "Sinruth will succeed where... wait.  How would you be telling him I'm a traitor without him killing you too?"

Mittens grins, <SL>"Timothius spank!  But that's admittedly a valid question."</SL>

"Descendants?  Don't be silly.  You were flying the Red Hand insignia upside-down, for starters."

"R... Really?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:54, Sat 30 Apr 2011.

  "If you can't even tell if you had it right side up or not, then it does not suggest very strongly it was accurate in the first place."

  Kyle somehow doubts offering to throw in free cremation after their execution so they don't end up a zombie will be a good sales pitch.

Tim says, "If he kills me, at least I will die knowing you were punished for not helping us. If he doesn't, well... that's because we will have taken him out of the picture. My allies and I are going to find him with or without your help. Your help will just make things go faster. But the consequence of you not helping is much worse for you than it is for us."

Raichel facepalms concerning the bugbear's lack of confidence in flag-carrying.

"Alright, alright!" the hobgoblin relents, "Sinruth is using catacombs under the ruins of Castle Rivenroar as a base for now."

Morrik draws a crude map of the mountain path that leads to Castle Rivenroar.

"Score!" Mittens chimes, reaching to glomp her sibs.

The guards look very impressed.  "Be sure to show that map to the Captain," they suggest, "Just in case."

  "I suppose attempting to repair the castle topside would have been too much work, not to mention attract significant notice.  If none of us make it back alive, or some of us survive and reveal he gave shoddy directions, do me a favor and kick him in the groin for me."

  So, is that more or less vindictive than wanting them executed for such a result?

Tim smiles and says, "I was going to the captain anyhow. I promised this hobgoblin I would ask for a reduced sentence."

He goes to high-five his sisters and fist-pound the guards. Or the DnD equivalent.

Tim then goes to find the captain, making sure his sisters and allies are with him.

Raichel asides to Mittens, "That's our bro..." and then follows along.

Meriele, of course, thanks the guards again and goes with the others.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:00, Sat 30 Apr 2011.

Mittens grins and wiggles her eyebrows at Raichel.

The Captain listens to the group's progress so far and has a scribe make a copy of the map.

"Councilman Troyas," he says, "The only one of the lot worthy of any ounce of trust.  Seems you're already proving his trust in you.  In that case I'll offer you a bit of advice.  Watch your back.  There's another group of 'adventurers' who've already left in search of the enemy.  I don't trust them.  They seem to be to be the kind to let you all do the work then try to steal the museum items from you for the reward."

"It helps that we're not in this for the reward," Mittens says, "If it comes down to it, they can have the money if it means we can get those people home safely.  But thanks for the warning.  I'll be sure keep eyes peeled for the safety of the hostages."

"Good."

  "As part of my likely many damnation guaranteed in your eyes flaws Mittens, I prefer to get paid.  It lets you do these crazy things like eat food and replace ammo without turning to theft and begging.  And I don't see many people dropping spare crossbow bolts into beggar cups."  It might give the beggars ideas.

  He turns to the captain, and adds "Thank you for the heads up about the likely less than professional manner our counterparts may be operating.  As stupid as working for free is, it's worse to try and eliminate the selfless variety of competition."

  Sir, there are some evil mutants attempting to kidnap the president.
  Kill Ze Ex-men!
  ...Sir, the X-Men do our job for us.  Is that really a good idea?
  KEEL! EX! MEN!
  ...You're an idiot sir.

Tim doesn't comment on the Kyle/Mittens exchange. He keeps his focus on the captain. "Thank you. Also, I promised the hobgoblin I would ask for leniency for him due to his cooperation, giving us this information. Would it be fair to request that sentencing wait until the captives are returned home? Because if the captives are still alive thanks to the hobgoblin, maybe that is enough to earn him a second chance at living, whatever else his sentence may be..."

Raichel rolls her eyes as Kyle describes himself as damned. "We all prefer payment, Kyle. It's the love of money more than some innocent person's life that might be considered evil. Am I to take it from your tone that you feel Mittens owes you an apology for an earlier statement you mistook as accusing you as evil? Or am I reading you wrong and you're already so chummy with my sister that you are teasing her like an old friend?"

Meriele is holding her glaive to the side. The falchion, despite its rather large size, actually has a sheathe. Granted, the sheath has multiple straps across Meriele's entire torso and hangs slightly higher than most swords so it won't drag on the ground. She leans her cheek against the haft of the glaive and listens. "If they get the museum pieces, they get the museum pieces and save us the effort. However, if their greed guides them to betraying us enough to even remotely endangering us, your warning will likely have saved our lives. Thank you, Captain."

Mittens deeply contemplates Kyle's wisdom, brow furrowed, finger rubbing her upper lip.

"Money...  Ice cream.  Money...  ICE CREAM!"

She lights up with a great big aha smile and nods vigorously to Kyle.

The Captain gives a skeptical look to the eccentric woman then answers the question.

"Yes, it would be fair.  The same offer was given him by myself, but apparently he doesn't trust us 'lying humans' too readily as you.  We'll keep your word as if it were our own...  It kindof is anyway, so may as well.  Good luck to you.  If there's anything else you need, do let me know.  If not, please hurry.  I don't like the idea of our citizens being zombie food, and every moment may be precious.  It's killing me I can't go with you, but my duty is to protect the many still in town."

  Kyle comments to Raichel, "I'll get back to you when I decide which one is more plausible." Though it was closer to 'oh, nice, one person is making blanket statements about everyone's financial situation'.

  Besides, he wasn't describing himself as damned, he was describing himself as considered morally flawed by someone with an exaggeratedly simplistic moral stance. Totally different! And not a biased opinion on Kyle's end at all, totally.

  "Yes Mittens, with money you can by more ice cream than without it."  He turns to the Captain and adds "Lies and Hypocrisy are an everyone game, though the amount of people who believe it to be limited does nothing to narrow down who or what would say such to you."

Raichel sweat-drops from Kyle's response to her. When he says his bit to the captain, Raichel decides it probably best to not answer Kyle immediately, but to consider his words, let it sink in, then answer. Then again, she is trying to put that to practice for everyone. Just that it can be difficult. She grips her staff and bows to the captain. "Then we'll be on our way. Thank you."

Tim nods and heads out. Meriele does the same.

"Cryptic responses too!" Mittens chimes as she follows along, "Onward!  To adventure!"

She makes some illusory gold appear in her hand, transforms it into ice cream, then voraciously devours it!

"On chance that Mittens offended the village protector, Mittens apologizes.  Me am no good with charisma stuffs.  Often even hurt siblings feelings.  No am mean to hurt them or you."

A sock puppet appears on her hand and speaks to her.  "Yes you do am mean to!  You're a horrible heartless person full of selfishness and cruelty, and would sooner drag your siblings into life-threatening adventures for your own fun than stay home where they're safe!"

"Silence!  I kill you!"

She begins to beat her sock puppet with her staff.

  "I don't think it's quite gotten into what can be properly considered offense.  And my Doctor said that if I don't voluntarily apply bitterness to my worldview and conversations I'll go on a homicidal rampage.  He was also spectacularly drunk at the time, but who am I to pass up a doctors note excuse?"

  Note, not making this up.  Crazy!

Meriele says, "Interesting. Now what about those tactics we were going to discuss? Now that we are on the way and know we can at least rely on each other in battle if not fully in conversation, shall we get prepared for what we'll be facing?"

Tim and Rai nod in unison. They also hug Mitts' sides and kiss her cheeks to distract her from self-beatings. After all, as humorous as it is, they both would rather she feel guilty when she's going to actually do something wrong. So that she won't.

Mittens' player filters the words of Kyle through the Tim translation machine, and this is what she hears:

"No offense taken.  To lighten the mood, I'm going to tell you something silly: that if ever I sound bitter, you can blame it on a drunk doctor."

Mittens blink-blinks.  "If ever I sound crazy, it's because of the old adage, 'I laugh because if I didn't I'd cry.'  Or some such.  So um...  Please don't be mad at me if I'm all silly when people are being captured and fed to zombies.  I do so to keep from losing heart.  Not to be dismissive about people in danger.

"As for tactics, this is what we should do.  We should decide on a combo of attacks.  Specifically, I can't use my big fireball if you're standing between me and the enemy.  So here's what we do.  We make up our minds which attacks we'll have ready if we're expecting trouble.  But we'll unleash them in the following order: Mittens uses burning hands, THEN Raichel and holy weapon lady charges in.  After that...  We each do what we do best.  Unless the enemy is strapped with exploding barrels.  Then we each keep our distance."

Mittens leads the way by virtue of being the best at Nature skill.  And her Leroy personality.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:51, Mon 02 May 2011.

  "Crazy enough to be functional is better than sane enough to be useless Mittens.  At least, usually when it comes to this sort of job."

  He shrugs in regards to Meriele, "Have some infrequently used short range spells, but for the most part it's crossbow, crossbow, and more crossbow.  And if I shoot someone in the face with it while next to say, Mittens, her fireballs will hit harder and better.  The big snag is my own variety of healing.  Like I said earlier, it's closer to a Paladin's than a Clerics.  It can get refilled after two uses, but unlike a Clerics 'you pay right now' methods of healing, I need to ASK for someone to voluntarily hand over a bit of that during a quiet moment.  So I can heal people, but I cant keep healing people without payment in advance, so to speak."

  This is why someday like, 8 levels from now Kyle is picking up the Durability feat.  So he can refill his Healing Infusions once without having to beg and without having to use his own default health.

Tim ohs! "Now I get what you mean... We have to "pay" with a bit of our endurance. Like when I heal someone or myself on the battlefield and it feels better, sure, but leaves the healed person a little more winded for the day. I think it's wonderful your power works that way. If someone gets more hurt than others..."

He shuts up, glancing at Mittens. "Mittens, do NOT use his power as a license to go charging into battle even more recklessly than normal. That will likely wreck any hope of strategy anyway..."

Raichel says, "Continuing Tim's thought, we will all be happy to contribute as the day goes on. Those less exhausted and feeling more vigorous can contribute before those who are exhausted."

Meriele simply nods in agreement to the allies, "My powers are mostly up close. So please be sure to clear a path for me. But if I see an opening, I'm going in. Unless... maybe I can stand beside you until you finish your power. If any enemies come to me, I can protect you."

"I do not enjoy pain," Mits says, "I'd only purposely entice an enemy to attack me if it meant some fighter could squeeze in a free hit and kill the enemy before they could finish the swing, bro.  So don't worry.  If I could use burning hands from a distance, I would.  But can't.  So at the start of the fight I gotta be up close if I'm gunna use my 2nd most powerful spell effectively.  After that, I've got no problems backing away.  Unless I have to shield someone from an explosion or something.

"Thanks for the support, Kyle.  I agree with my sibs.  Your ability is awesome, and we're more than willing to volunteer vitality in a 'who's the least winded' order."

(( Just take surges from whomever has the most at the moment without asking since we've already given permission to.  Kyle may find he doesn't have to take that feat after all.  ;) ))

  Kyle nods in regards to Timothy "Of course, there is definitely a quantity over quality thing going.  My healing only does a tiny bit compared to what a Cleric's can do even if it can be used on someone completely exhausted of their inner reserves.  It's like comparing beef jerky to Filet mignon"  *pulls See And Say lever* The DBZ abridged reference says... I like both those things!

  Seriously though.  Surge+dice+Wis Mod on someone with a Wis primary, Compared to Sure+Wis with afterthought 13? Yeah, kind of a huge diffrence.

  OOC Style: True, but if the recent trend continues, that will mean vamping from his own supply because he didn't get blown up size ways ;P Of course, one of the various reason's he's a /CON Arty. Even before Durable, Kyle has two more surges than the highest competition in the party.

  1 surge from each party member + Kyles two 'spare' surges=6, which is three refills.  Not bad and not too draining overall on party.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:13, Mon 02 May 2011.

When Mitts comments about not enjoying pain, he just smiles sadly as if he doesn't believe her. Then he looks over at Kyle. "You and I can heal people. Yours come for free until the fight is over. Mine heal for more. No matter how you look at it, though, seems like we got a great deal going."

Raichel says, "Thanks again for your help, you two." in reference to Kyle and Meriele. "And your lack of prejudice."

Meriele says, "I... you're welcome."

"Yeah we get a lot of that," Mittens says, "To be fair, prejudice is an everybody game.  I'm skeptical about anybody not my related to me by blood.  But not to the degree that I expect them eat my face off just 'cause they look a little different.  Sheesh."

  Terdisas fingershakes in disappointment at Meriele from off panel.  You'll never convincingly pass for Human if you ellipses at the mention of being racially tolerant, or any 'Humans aren't Jerks cause of your example' complement.

  "Lycanthropy being transmitted via bite is as false as the belief silver has any instantly dire effect upon pure Lycanthropes anyways.  Though I'm sure you could bite the face off someone deserving it if you tried.  I'll take the 'wow! he's not a moron!' compliment as it was intended by you, it's nicer that way than how I rationalize it."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:59, Mon 02 May 2011.

While Meriele's player is glad Kyle's player caught that, humans have plenty prejudice among their own kind. Like if a black guy grew up in a white neighborhood. Odd how fantasy settings don't think about that.

"Well if tactics are so simple, then I suppose the only other thing is to get to know you folks. I'll start with you, Kyle. Are you a resident? Or passing through? What got you the skill set you have?"

The shifter sibs are quiet, listening.

Mittens too keeps quiet.  She instead pretends to gallop along with a goofy grin like she thinks she's bunchie or something.

  When you've got colors like Green, Black and White tend to be able to set aside their diffrences to pick on the one not part of the monochrome club (even if most Humans are not literally white and black, and they might not like Default color Changelings or Drow either, and... whatever).

  "While I would prefer to stick to the farthest effective range for shooting things, it's just not very professional or practical overall." don't worry guys, I can totally use my burst 5 heal from all the way over... oh, wait, no I cant.

  "As for the common and sensible question you asked Meriele, I was born in Brindal yeah.  Most recent and for several years employment has been as guard for a trader on *player will look up Eladrin city name later* runs when the place exists.  Of course, tragically it seems my employer was among the casualties of the raid."

  Tragically, because now he's not getting paid.

Raichel gives a sincere "Sorry for your loss." to Kyle. Then says, "My siblings and I are from a tribe far from here. We left home because it wasn't the most hospitable location and we figured if we are going to be in a hostile environment, we may as well be making a difference for people while we're at it."

Meriele says, "I was enlightened by a priest in my hometown and became an avenger of the god I serve; Pelor. But my home didn't need someone like me. So I went out looking for places like this that did need me."

Tim doesn't comment.

Mittens attempts to cheer Tim up by making silly faces at him.

Wall of text is GO!

Tr acking
the Goblins
Hot on the trail of the hobgoblins and their captives,
the PCs head into the mountains northeast of Brindol.
In this skill challenge, they must track the goblins to
their lair while staying safe from the other dangers of
the wilderness.
During the challenge the PCs roll multiple sets of
skill checks; each set equates to roughly an hour or
two of travel. Typically one character makes a Nature
check, another makes a Perception check, and everyone
makes Endurance checks. In each set of checks, a
character can assist only one other character’s check.
Skill Challenge
Level: 1.
XP: 300
Complexity: 3 (requires 8 successes before 3
failures).
Primary Skills: Perception, Nature, Endurance.
Perception (DC 18): One or more PCs watch for signs
that the hobgoblins have passed this way and otherwise
keep the rest of the travelers on track. Only one character
can attempt this check in each set of checks, but
other characters can assist if they’re not already assisting
another check (see above). If the PCs got a map from
Morrik (whether it’s a good map or the map that leads
to the kruthiks), they can worry less about following the
tracks of the goblins and gain a +5 bonus on the check.
A successful check counts as one success toward completing
the skill challenge (maximum five successes). A
failed check means that the PCs lose their way temporarily,
extending the duration of the trek by 1 hour.
Nature (DC 15): One or more PCs use their talent
to guide the group around dead ends and natural hazards
such as unstable rock slopes. Only one character
can attempt this check in each set of checks, but other
characters can assist if they’re not already assisting
another check (see above). A successful check counts
as one success toward completing the skill challenge
(maximum five successes). A failed check indicates
that the PCs had to take a treacherous detour that
adds one hour to the trip and requires each PC to succeed
on a DC 10 Athletics check or lose one healing
surge from a nasty fall or other accident (these Athletics
checks don’t count as successes or failures toward
the skill challenge).
Endurance (DC 10): In each set of checks, each
character must roll an Endurance check to resist the
effects of altitude and exposure to bad mountain
weather. If at least three characters in the group succeed,
this counts as a success toward the skill challenge
(maximum four successes; but keep rolling after this
number is reached to check for failures). If two characters
succeed, it is neither a success nor a failure. If one
or no characters succeed, each member of the group
loses one healing surge, in addition to counting as a
failure for the challenge. For every two additional characters
in the party above or below five, add +1 to the
number of successful rolls required for a success. For
every two characters less than five, decrease it by 1.
Success: The PCs reach the ruins of Rivenroar
Castle without incident. The trip takes 8 hours, plus
one hour per failed Perception or Nature check.
Failure: The trip leads the PCs right into a monster
lair. Use the kruthik encounter if the PCs either
received no map or a good map from Morrik. If the
PCs ended up with a bad map, they’re going to have
the kruthik encounter anyway. In that case, let them
stumble into the hunting grounds of a cave bear.
After dealing with the monster, the PCs still
haven’t reached Rivenroar Castle. They must repeat
the task at complexity 1 (requiring four successes
before three failures) to reach Rivenroar thereafter.

At this point, I want to just fail the stupid thing and move on.  Whatever.  Posting up Mits results here:

Mits endurance checks

1d20 +1 >= 10
1: 9 + 1 = 10 ... success
2: 9 + 1 = 10 ... success
3: 3 + 1 = 4 ... failure
4: 14 + 1 = 15 ... success
5: 12 + 1 = 13 ... success
6: 13 + 1 = 14 ... success
7: 7 + 1 = 8 ... failure
8: 6 + 1 = 7 ... failure

Mits Nature checks

1d20 +9 >= 15
1: 1 + 9 = 10 ... failure
2: 13 + 9 = 22 ... success
3: 14 + 9 = 23 ... success
4: 10 + 9 = 19 ... success
5: 7 + 9 = 16 ... success
6: 10 + 9 = 19 ... success
7: 10 + 9 = 19 ... success
8: 20 + 9 = 29 ... success

Kyle Endurance Checks

+11 Endurance = Win Foreverz!

Meriele Perception checks
1d20 + 9 + 5
1: 6 + 14 = 20 ... success
2: 20 + 14 = 34 ... success
3: 16 + 14 = 30 ... success

Meriele Endurance checks: 4 fails, 4 success
1: 19 ... success
2: 19 ... success
3: 18 ... success
4: 9
5: 4
6: 17 ... success
7: 1
8: 1

Raichel endurance checks: 3 fails, 5 success

1d20 +5
1: 16 + 5 = 21 ... success
2: 13 + 5 = 18 ... success
3: 1 + 5 = 6
4: 6 + 5 = 11 ... success
5: 1 + 5 = 6
6: 19 + 5 = 24 ... success
7: 20 + 5 = 25 ... success
8: 3 + 5 = 8

Tim endurance checks: Amazingly only 4 fails, 4 success

1d20 -1
1: 10 - 1 = 9
2: 3 - 1 = 2
3: 17 - 1 = 16 ... success
4: 11 - 1 = 10 ... success
5: 5 - 1 = 4
6: 17 - 1 = 16 ... success
7: 16 - 1 = 15 ... success
8: 7 - 1 = 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:54, Tue 03 May 2011.

When the ruined castle comes into view, Mittens takes a seat to rest her feet.

"Finally," she says, "Long walk.  Shoulda known to ask for horses.  Well from here on in, I suggest we move cautiously.  Like super cautiously.  Attacks at the ready.  Shoot to knock out, sure, but shoot first and ask questions later kind of ready.  Me and Meriele at the front."

(( Readied action: Most appropriate spell at the first sign of hostility. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 19:26, Tue 03 May 2011.

  "Always pleasant when the one taking the front is also one of those better at noticing danger ahead of time."  Yay for Perc packing Avenger. I'm a Fighter! I tank and enter rooms first!... what's a perception?  Just because Kyle is used to the caravan guard gig doesn't mean he's used to walking the entire trail.  Though he's apparently taken precautionary practice in case he needs to seeing how he appears fine.

  "Though, we should probably take a minute to make sure your legs will move before we shove you into hostile territory Mittens."

Attempt to cheer up Tim is go. When Mitts brings up the kind of caution she wants, Tim says, "Do we know to expect hobgoblins only? Or are there other sorts mingled in this mess?"

Raichel says, "Well that's where stealth should play a part. If we move slow, we move quiet. I don't want to be making an enemy of a potential ally. Suppose we find a shifter or a human. They could be on our side."

Tim says, "Doesn't help we have been made paranoid about even that other group turning against us just for the reward money."

Meriele says, "Stealth. I agree with Raichel. If we can gain an ally and work together, that would be best. But Mittens is right too. I'll say if it's a hobgoblin, we shoot first. If not, we approach with caution."

What are the chances of running into a good hobgoblin out here in the midst of hobgoblin turf? ...well Meriele knows all too well SHE could be a good hobgoblin out here, but doesn't want to say anything about it.

"Stealth good, yes," Mittens agrees, "Other known enemies so far would be ogres and 'undead horrors.'  We've rested enough.  Let's go."

She stealthily leads the way.

(( Take-10 stealth moving 2 squares at a time is a whopping 13.  Readied action unchanged.

sharpshooters init 17 + 5 = 22
soldiers init 12 + 7 = 19
Timothy init 15+2 = 17
Mits init 14 + 1 = 15
Raichel init 7+4 = 11
Braziers move actions = 10
Meriele init 9+0 = 9
Kyle Initiative: 5
Braziers fire action = 0 ))
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:25, Wed 04 May 2011.

  The Hobogoblins hear uninvited... Whoever, coming down the stairs and motion to the Sharpshooters to do their thing as the hobgoblins take up positions, ready to smash whoever comes out of the tunnel.

  One of the goblins opens the door and readies his hand crossbow, while the other merely readies his weapon.

---

  Hobgoblin 1
Move: F7 to E9
Standard: Readied action, Flail (+7 Vs AC) to first Enemy coming within range.

  Hobgoblin 2
Move: G7 to H9
Standard: Readied action, Flail (+7 Vs AC) to first Enemy coming within range.

  Goblin 1
Minor: Open North Door.
Standard/Readied: Hand Crossbow Vs Mittens/first enemy. Hits. 4 DMG (16 total hit roll)

  Goblin 2
Minor: Open North Door.
Standard/Readied: Hand Crossbow Vs Meriele/first enemy not G1's target. Hits. 5 DMG  (22 total hit roll, hits anyone in party)

Goblin 1 HP: 31/31 (Bloodied 15)
Goblin 2 HP: 31/31 (Bloodied 15)
Hobgoblin 1 HP: 47/47 (Bloodied 23)
Hobgoblin 2 HP: 47/47 (Bloodied 23)

Mittens HP: 23-4= 19/23
Meriele HP: 24-5= 19/23 

Reminder that Meriele goes After the braziers move, but that's just moving them down 1 tile so You can do that for me to save time.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:51, Wed 04 May 2011.

Tim and Raichel delay their turns until after Mittens and Meriele as per discussed tactics.

(Delaying Tim and Rai till... duh)

"Mittens Pyromancer!" the shifter shouts as she rushes forward.  She gets shot and flailed for her trouble... only the flail missed. "Ow!  Woah!  HA!  Missed me!  Missed me!  Neener neener neeeener!  EAT FIRE!"

She unleashes hellish fury on the two soldiers!  She then takes a single step back to make room for her melee happy allies.

(( Move from g14 to g10.  Burning hands hit, CRIT!  Max damage on hit anyway. :p  17 fiya!  Hobgoblin 1 and 2 HP: 30  ACTION POINT! Shift back to g11. ))

Meriele rushes forward, taking Mittens' place as planned, but misses with both of her merciless swings! Due to the tactics discussed, she is using the falchion rather than the glaive for now. "Focus on the enemies I attack!" she says, hoping focus fire will help.

(Move: F14 to G10)
(Minor: Oath of Emnity on Hobgoblin 2)
(Standard: Bond of Retribution v Hob2. Miss both rolls.)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:48, Thu 05 May 2011.

Raichel aims her hand at the hobgoblin and looses a bolt of lightning! The lightning jolts the hobgoblin hard and then shoots from him to one of the sharpshooters, letting it know it isn't safe back there! Raichel then rushes to be at Meriele's side. "They'll have to get past me to get you, sis."

(Standard: Lightning Strike v Hobgoblin 2. Hit!)
 dmg: 12
 do 4 dmg to enemy within 10 of target. Chose sharpshooter 2.

Hobgoblin 2 HP: 30 - 12 = 18
Goblin Sharpshooter HP: 31 - 4 = 27

Tim throws golden holy fire at the hobgoblin, burning the creature while empowering Raichel.

(Move: From G15 to F11)
(Standard: Sacred Flame v Hob2. Hit.)
 dmg: 6

Raichel HP: 22 + 4thp = 26
Hobgoblin 2 HP: 18 - 6 = 12
This message was last edited by the player at 03:09, Thu 05 May 2011.

  Kyle follows down the stairway and comes to a stop as far down it as there is room to, fortunately having a shot at the Goblins at the back of the room... Unfortunately, his shot only causes the most pathetic of barely hits.  Beats a miss, but not by much really.

---

Move: Duh
Standard: Scouring Weapon Vs Goblin1, hits, Minimum Damage ;.; 6 Acid.
Minor: Reload

Effects: Goblin1 Has -2 AC Until End Of Kyle's Next Turn.

Goblin1 HP:  31-6= 25

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 2

  The braziers spray fire between them, but don't amount to much at the moment with nobody between them.  The Goblins return fire at the Heros who shot them, and land solid shots on Kyle and Raichel respectily.  Meanwhile, the Hobgoblins slam their flails into the Legs of the two leading ladies, Raichel and Meriele.

But just as the flail aimed at Raichel is about to hit, the girl yells "RAI!" and a forcefield made of electricity seems to appear about her, deflecting the blow!

  The enemies, seeing they have all landed a hit, airslap eachother.  Or at lest start to, then realize one of them totally blew it on hitting Raichel.  Instead the other three point and laugh at that guy. 

---

  Goblin 1:
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Kyle, Hits. MAX 10 DMG.
  Goblin 1
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Raichel, Hits. 7 DMG.
  Hobgoblin 1
Standard: Flail Vs Raichel, Hits, 13 DMG. Marks and Slows. misses
  Hobgoblin 2
Standard: Flail Vs Meriele, Hits, 7 DMG. Marks and Slows.

Effects: Raichel, Meriele, Marked and Slowed Until The End Of Hobgoblin's Next Turn.

Goblin 1 HP: 25/31
Goblin 2 HP: 27/31
Hobgoblin 1 HP: 30/47
Hobgoblin 2 HP: 12/47

Kyle HP: 28-10= 18/28
Raichel HP: 26-7-13= 19/22
Meriele HP: 19-7= 12/24
This message was last edited by the player at 03:53, Thu 05 May 2011.

Meriele is hurting, yes, but she hides this with a grin as she takes her falchion and slices the hobgoblin's arms and then smacks it upside the head with the flat of the blade, knocking it unconscious. Oh how she wants to kill them. But then, there are things worse than death. That's how she is comforting herself at the moment.

She looks at the other with that same sick grin. "You're next..."

And with that, even in her slowed state, she moves over to be adjacent to the hobgoblin.

(Standard: Bond of Retribution v hob2. miss, CRIT)
 dmg: 12, so he's KO.
 STILL, next enemy not hob2 that attacks Mer takes 3 radiant dmg.
(Minor: Oath on Hob1)
(Move: G10 to F8)

Hobgoblin2 HP: 12 - 12 = KO
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Thu 05 May 2011.

"Nice one, sis!" Mittens commends on Rai's deflection, "Oooh!  Knockout!  Thanks for clearing me a path, Meriele!"

She rushes around the remaining hobgoblin to flank with her sis then points her staff at his back.

"BAM!"

Point blank magic missile!

(( Move from g10 to d8. 6 damage. Hobgoblin1 HP: 24 ))

As Mittens blasts the hobgoblin in the back, he turns to look at her only for Raichel to thwap him in the side with her staff. "No you don't!" and quickly follows up with a staff to the hobgoblin's other side, smacking him over to be between Raichel and Meriele instead.

(Standard: Five Storms v Hobgoblin 1. Hit.)
 dmg: 12
(Free: Centered flurry)
 dmg: 5
 move hobgoblin from E9 to F9
(Move and Minor unused)

Hobgoblin 1 HP: 24 - 16 = 8

Tim fires off another fireball that seems to almost hit the hobgoblin, but it doesn't. But Tim says, "Be healed, Meriele!" and her wounds vanish entirely! Not even a remaining ache.

(Standard: Sacred Flame. Miss.)
(Meriele Divine Guidance. Still miss.)
(Minor: Healing Word on Meriele)
 d6 roll: 3

Meriele HP: 12 + (6+4+3) = 24

  Once more, Kyle takes a step closer and fires his crossbow at one of the Goblins.  This time around his more 'standard' shot slightly outperforms his Encounter Power's damage.  He has mixed feelings about this.  "My optimism at this situation is only hindered by the grim reality that this is probably as good as it will get in a fight for us."

---

Move: Duh
Standard: M Weapon Vs Goblin 1, Hits. 7 DMG.
Minor: Reload.

Effects: Magic Weapon Buff to Timothy, Raichel.  +1 Power Hit, +3 DMG Rolls For their next attack before End Of Kyle's Next turn.

Goblin 1 HP:  25-7= 18

Kyle HP: 18/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 2 

  More Braziers movey and burny.  Nobody cares.

  With the first of their meatshields taken out, the still standing hobgoblin sidesteps out of their flanked position and gives a repeat performance of their flailing slam against the Avenger.  Meanwhile, the goblins... Take a wild guess, they stand there and shoot at people!  Mittens takes one across the shoulder while Raichel gets a shot in the arm from over the Hobgoblin's head.

---

  Hobgoblin 1
Move: Shift, F9 to G8
Standard: Flail Vs Meriele, Hits (21). 6 DMG. Slows, Marks.
  Goblin 1
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Mittens, Hits (27). 5 DMG.
  Goblin 2
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Raichel, Hits (24). 7 DMG.

Effects: Meriele, Marked and Slowed Until End Of Hobgoblin's Next Turn.

Goblin 1 HP: 18/31
Goblin 2 HP: 27/31
Hobgoblin 1 HP: 8/47

Meriele HP: 24-6= 18
Mittens HP: 19-5= 14
Raichel HP: 19-7= 12
Nobody Bloodied yet, at least.

Anybody who wants a Kyle Heal, say so Icly or OOCly and he'll use an Infusion his next turn.

In a confusing bit of actions, Mittens moves into a flanking position with Meriele and then Meriele smacks the hobgoblin good like she did the last one, causing him to fall unconscious. She then rushes the western goblin archer, eyes blazing.

In game terms, Mer delayed her turn, Mittens used her move action to flank, then readied her attack for after Mer's turn being resolved. Then Meriele attacked, hit, damaged enough to KO, used a move to get to the next enemy (Goblin 1) and used a Minor to Oath him.

(Standard: Bond of Retribution v Hob1. Hit!)
 dmg: 8
(Minor: Oath v Gob1)
(Move: F8 to E6)

Hobgoblin 1 HP: 8 - 8 = KO

"They're dropping like flies!" Mittens observes after flanking with Meriele, "Hey goblins!  You noticed we haven't been beheading your tough guys?  That's because we intend to question them.  You surrender now, we'll spare you too."

She points her staff, ready to fire another Magic Missile!

(( Move from d8 to h8.  Due to the auto hit nature of Magic Missile, readied action: Magic Missile the first still-conscious enemy who's below 7hp.  If by the end of Kyle's turn none are below 7hp, shoot the one with the most HP. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 05:36, Thu 05 May 2011.

Raichel winces from the attack that had hit her. She says, "Mittens! Blast with me!" Raichel holds a hand forward and zaps the goblin archer so hard he slams against the wall. KATHOOM! Then Mittens' readied magic missile coordinates with Raichel and blasts the goblin before he can reach the ground. Which he does, falling in a pile on the floor.

(Standard: Thunder Slam v goblin 1. Hit)
 dmg: 14 and push target 3 squares. He's up against wall, so... slam against wall?
 Magic Weapon: +3 dmg.
(Mittens readied Magic Missile)
 dmg: 6

Goblin Archer 1 HP: 18 - 23 = KO
This message was last edited by the player at 06:02, Thu 05 May 2011.

Tim frowns. "Raichel! Be healed!" and well.. you know the drill.

He points at the goblin with stern contempt. "You will be weak and these attacks will hit and will hurt worse than before. Be warned. Your surrender will lessen the pain."

(Minor: Healing Word on Rai.)
 1d6 roll: 3
(Move: F11 to I7)
(Standard: Prophetic Guidance)
 Effect: The target grants combat advantage until the end of your next turn, and your allies gain a power bonus to damage rolls against the target equal to your Wisdom modifier (4) until the end of your next turn. The next ally who misses the target before the end of your next turn can reroll the attack.

Raichel HP: 12 + (5+4+3) = 22

     Kyle steps between Mittens and Raichel, commenting "Somehow, I don't think surrendering is bit on their to-do list" This said as an almost gone wide shot becomes dead centre accurate thanks to Timothy's Diving Mojo.  Which in turn causes Kyle's Arcane Mojo to give it a high five and make the two Sister Shifters ramped up for even further awesome.  "By the way, dibs on their hand crossbows and accompanying accessories.  Unless one of you decides to take up using one."

---

Move: Duh
Standard: M Weapon Vs Goblin 2,Miss Yay Timothy perk! Hits. 9 DMG +4.
Minor: Reload.

Effects: Magic Weapon Bonus for Raichel, Mittens.

Goblin 2 HP: 27-9-4= 14

Kyle HP: 18/28 S 9/9 V 7
This message was last edited by the player at 06:20, Thu 05 May 2011.

  The goblin, while not apparently in a surrendering mood, is getting kind of freaked out right now as he swings his hand crossbow across the room wildly unable to decide who to shoot, before settling on burying a bolt right in Meriele's stomach and backing through the open door.

  The Braziers move once more, and Meriele can feel the heat of BBQ death sweeping past her.

---

Goblin 2
Move: H2 to F1
Standard: Shot Vs Meriele. Hits (23). 9 DMG.

Goblin 2 HP: 14/31

Meriele HP: 18-9= 9/24

As this is 'hardcore', if we drop the goblin this turn set, I figure we should spam as many Short rests as needed to have Tim spam Healing word.  Hey, 'classic' DnD would have you waiting entire DAYS between every encounter.

Meriele bends forward some as she is impaled in the gut. Then grins through the fires at the goblin as he feels his flesh seer from divine retribution. Then Meriele hurries forward as the goblin feels awash with being the focus of Meriele's ire. She swings her falchion at the goblin, smacking it down. "It's over." she says, keeping her sword ready just in case.

(Bond of Retribution still in effect. Goblin suffer for hitting Meriele)
 dmg: 3
(Minor: Oath on Goblin)
(Move: E6 to F2)
(Standard: Relentless Attack v goblin. Hit.)
 dmg: 10 + 3 (Thanks Kyle!) + 4 (And high-fiving powers!)

Goblin HP: 14 - 20 = Ouch.

Side note, accidentally rolled Raichel's attack before Mer's, so even if Mer didn't get the goblin...

(Rai: Lightning Strike. Hit.)
 dmg: 8 + 3 (Thanks Kyle!) + 4 (And high-fiving powers!)

Goblin HP: 14 - 15 = Still screwed

"Nice!" Mittens commends, "Now we tie up badguys, my bro heals us good, then we interrogate prisoners."

She gets to work on the tying up part.

  Kyle says, as he carefully passes the fire spewing braziers "If we wanted to be brutal about it, we could always use the scenery as a 'oooh, look at it getting closer and closer... You sure you don't want to talk?' method... Speaking of which this goblin's gonna be BBQ if we don't move them out of the thing's path anyways."

  Kyle saves the important thing though, the Goblin's ammo and hand crossbow, and moves on to the one in the hallway's Crossbow and Crossbow Accessories.

  "Considering we have the opportunity, not to be taking it for granted or anything but Timothy is really going to make post fight medical attention go a lot better than normal.  I've done similar for others in the past, but It'd just be wasteful for me to do it at this point."

  I've got full Infusions and we have a Cleric... Now hold on while I use Surge+1 HP heals and burn surges to refill the power instead of letting Clericy Surge+4+1d6 do it's thin-oh wait, that's retarded.

OOC Style:
  Loot Gets: Hand Crossbow(2).
  Kyle Ammo: 114+ 33= 147
  Kyle Weight: 98/110

Kyle HP: 18/28 S 9/9 V 7 Inf 2

I also edited Raichel to 5 Of 6 surges on the Map from Tim's Combat Heal.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:22, Thu 05 May 2011.

Tim nods and begins healing people accordingly. Once everyone is situated, that is. A 10 minute rest later and everyone is just dandy. He doesn't rob Kyle of his joy of crossbow looting. He almost looks for alchemical fire, but then the player remembers that was Ascension.

---

Healing Word rolls: 6, 5, 2

Mittens 14 23(11) Surges: 7 of 7, Value: 5
Meriele 9 24(12) Surges: 6 of 7, Value: 6
Raichel 22 22(11) Surges: 5 of 6, Value: 5
Timothy 22 22(11) Surges: 7 of 7, Value: 5
Kyle 18 28(14) Surges: 9 of 9, Value: 7

Mer: HP 9 + Surge value 6 + Healing Word (4 + 6) = Full HP for 1 surge.
Mit: HP 14 + Surge value 5 + Healing Word (4+5) = Full HP for 1 surge.
Kyl: HP 18 + Surge value 7 + Healing Word (4+2) = Full HP for 1 surge.

Mittens 23 Surges: 6 of 7
Meriele 24 Surges: 5 of 7
Raichel 22 Surges: 5 of 6
Timothy 22 Surges: 7 of 7
Kyle 28 Surges: 8 of 9
This message was last edited by the player at 04:26, Fri 06 May 2011.

Meriele helps move the prisoners away from brazier death. Then ties up and examines the prisoners closely. Then says, "My friends... what if I could find out where the prisoners were kept without any risk of combat and then report back to you?"

She sits next to one of the prisoners, cleaning her blade while giving her allies an inquisitive look.

Raichel says, "I'd ask you how so we can do it and get it over with."

Meriele says, "Sorry... it'd be a solo mission."

Raichel says, "Right. So how would you?"

Meriele says, "Disguise. If I could convince the enemy I'm one of them..."

Raichel says, "They probably don't have any human members."

Mittens frowns and raises an eyebrow as if impressed.

"That'd one heck of a disguise," she says, "You a shape-shifter or something?  Either way, knowing the layout ahead of time would be awesome.  Misinformation given to the enemy would be awesome too."

  Hi.  Terdisas again.  This, is a Disguise Kit.  Not a 'Disguise', sure those cost less, weigh less, and give the exact same +2 bonus (stupid power creep Dark Sun Items compared to Ebberon Items).  Buy one.  Item bonuses, and plausible deniability.  I use it to say 'I dye my hair black instead of it's natural white'.  Or Maybe I don't.  But not like you can tell.

  Kyle thanks Timothy for the healing goodness, and says "While whatever you have planned might work, I'm somewhat hazy on leaving you alone with four enemies, even if they are unarmed at the time."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:06, Tue 10 May 2011.

Meriele finally decides to admit since it's just the party right now. "I am a shapeshifter." She demonstrates by changing into Mittens. Then changes back. "I think it's worth a try."

Raichel and Tim gasp in shock from the sight, then look at each other. Then back to Meriele. "Well... that could indeed change things."

They look at Mittens and Kyle. Then nod to Meriele. Tim says, "Kyle has a point. We wouldn't be able to be with you..."

"What's better than one mitten?  Two Mittens!" Mittens says once she gets over her initial surprise, "Wait... No!  There can be only one!  Oh wait, she changed back.  Well two can play at that game!"

She conjures a Meriele mask and puts it on!

"I'm not sure Kyle gets my clever idea!  I intend to go further in disguised as a badguy while you all wait here with the captured badguys!  So instead of me being alone with 4 near dead enemies I'll mingle with dozens of healthy ones without any backup!"

Mittens rubs her chin.

"Wow.  You got guts, woman.  I'm impressed!"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:22, Wed 11 May 2011.

  "Well, you've been getting blown up and stabbed in our favor since we met you, so I think I can go with this."  Because few things say 'totally a spy!' like nearly having your brains decorate the streets courtesy of an Ogre.  If you're a moron, or they are worst spy ever anyway.

  "If you think you can pull it off, then maybe.  But we're already here to rescue people as it is, adding you to the rescue list is something I'd prefer to avoid."  IC logic sez, No Never Have Meriele leave party and end up alone with armed goons.

  OOC logic meanwhile is aware of Tim's intentions to altswap, so hold still Kyle's common sense, we need to beat you with a brick.

Meriele glances from one to the other and smiles. "Glad you bunch aren't freaking out." She then looks at Kyle, weighs her options and says, "I... would hate to be an inconvenience. It IS a gamble. The payoff would be great, though. Tell you what... I'll go to the next room and if I'm successful there, I'll come right back. If not, I'll yell for help."

Tim looks uncomfortable. "Make sure you stay close to cover and out of sword-swipe distance, Meriele... or else you may not even get the chance to scream."

Meriele nods and gets to undressing one of the hobgoblin prisoners. "Great thing about shapeshifting..." she changes into the hobgoblin and undresses right in front of everyone. "It doesn't matter if I undress when I look like this..."

Tim looks over to Mittens. "Handy."

Raichel doesn't comment, though her expression shows worry, then being impressed, then going back to worry. She looks away when the prisoner is being undressed and keeps her eyes away.

"Ew!" Mittens objects, looking away when badguy is de-shirted.  She glances at her sibs and makes sure their not looking either, covering their eyes if need by before continuing to not look herself, "Don't want to see naked hobgoblins.  Go ahead and give your plan a try.  We'll be waiting right here.  Please make sure the prisoner has something on.  Thank you."

(( No Chris' were harmed in the making of this scene. ;p ))

  Doesn't stare at Meriele's Holy Buttocks, because it would be somewhat rude.  Random looted to nudity hobgoblin meanwhile is relegated to 'may as well be furniture' logics of his mind...  So, would a hobgoblin be more of a coffee table or really poorly built desk?

  He picks up one of the discarded flails and offers it to their favorite avenger though "At least the look you're going with comes with weapons."

OOC Style: Flail: One Handed Military. +2 Prof. 1d10 DMG. Versatile. 5 LB, 10 GP.
  Scale Mail and Heavy Shield that hobgoblins also used... Who cares, Meriele gets no mechanical benefits anyway.

Meriele gets going to the next room.

Tim glances at the others. "I probably should have insisted we stay together, but... she's right." he's pretty bothered by it. "Just sitting here and waiting for her OK is killin' me."

Raichel nods. "We're ready. If she feels her disguise is blown, she'll call."

"Yeah," Mittens agrees, "I'm hoping she's unsuccessful if only so we can charge in to save the day.  So let's be as ready as possible and sneak as close as we can."

She readies an attack and slinks carefully after Meriele.

(( LOL take-10 stealth at speed of 2.  Can hand-wave her capture and May's entrance if you like.  Not like we'll be getting anywhere soon at a speed of 2. ))

At the slow pace the bunch is moving, there is a surprising lack of noise. Hobgoblins can be heard talking, but what they are saying is too distant. What got Meriele caught? She can't speak goblin. Oops.

Meanwhile, when the group is halfway there, they hear a "Psst!" from behind them. Should they turn to look, there was May at the other end of the hall. "Are you bunch the adventurers trying to stop the hobgoblins?" She whispers down the hall to the group.

(May take-ten stealth is 20. Yes, she is a sneaky fighter. I always wanted to make one.)

Mittens nods to the whisperer, then does a double-take.  A kobold being civil?  Whaaa?  Oh.  These goblins must hate kobolds.  And... she sure looks weird for a kobold.

She waves the armed girl over, ready to blast her if she does anything threatening.

"Why you ask?" she whispers when May gets closer.

  Kyle is pretty certain that is the most heavily armed kobold he's ever seen.  If they had ill intent were they planning on using one weapon per person? Yeesh.  "I think, considering out situation, it would be somewhat difficult to deny it"  Nevermind the lack of high bluff skills in visible PC's, a bunch of non-goblins sneaking around the place didn't exactly scream 'we work here'.

Tim and Raichel double-take when Mittens does. Tim waves May over as well and the li'l kobold comes right over.

May says, "I'm here to help. But for obvious reasons, I couldn't get officially sanctioned by Brindol. But I figured if you bunch didn't mind tolerating a kobold in favor of having a meat shield, I'll protect you and take point."

"Tolerating a kobold..." Mittens whisper-muses aloud, "I'm more surprised at a kobold tolerating us.  But sure.  You're welcome to aid us.  An ally of ours went to the next room to scout it out for us.  We're creeping closer in hopes of better aiding her if need be."

(( May as well roll Init and place figs on board.
Grunts 21
Tim init 18 + 2 = 20
Raichel init 14 + 4 = 18
mits init 12 + 1 = 13
Kyle 13
Soldier 12
May init 11 + 0 = 11

Round 2, more monsters appear. ))
This message was last edited by the player at 05:06, Fri 13 May 2011.

  It doesn't say much for Kyle's personality when their greatest upset at a Kobold taking point is wondering, how do you hide behind someone half your size? (sure, Mechanically it works out, but just thinking about it can cause brain derails).  "The temperature of your blood isn't an issue if you're bleeding for us... Though, see if you can pull it off without bleeding in the first place I guess."

OOC Style: Kyle Initiative: 13

May would actually have an answer for Kyle. But she wasn't asked how he can hide behind her. May says, "Pff... I appreciate a challenge, but... not bleed? They'd hafta be serious pushovers. But whatever, let's get going." she begins leading the way.

"It's been a while... should we charge?" Mittens asks softly.

(( Mits stealth roll total = 20.  Standard readied actions. ))

May charges in, Raichel quickly following, but staying back a little. Timothy follows right behind Raichel.


Surprise actions:
May moves from R15 to Q11
Raichel moves from R16 to P12
Timothy moves from S16 to P13

"We're goodguys!" Mittens exclaims as she charges in with the others.

(( Surprise Action: Move. ))

  While Kyle is heavily tempted to wait in the safe blind spot that is the hallway until he's got a bit more time to work, there is such a thing as being too cautious, so he follows along.

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 8/9 V 7 Inf 2
Surprise: Move Duh

  As one, the Grunts turn to face the heroes.  Deadpan face, draw their swords and CHAAAAAAARGE!  Oh goodness the stabbings that commence... Well, okay, that one just sorta pretends they managed to hit Mittens with their embarrassing flailings.

  Still, not a bad first showing for a batch of minions.

---

  Grunts 1-4: CHAAAAARGE. Hit Mittens (23) 5 DMG, Miss Mittens, Hit May(21) 5 DMG, CRIT May(27) 5 DMG.

Effects: All Grunts have 19 AC from their Phalanx Soldier.

Grunt 1 HP: Minion
Grunt 2 HP: Minion
Grunt 3 HP: Minion
Grunt 4 HP: Minion
Soldier HP: 47 (Bloodied 23)

Mittens HP: 23-5= 18
May HP: 30-5-5= 20
This message was last edited by the player at 06:01, Fri 13 May 2011.

"PleaseAllowMeToOpen!" Mittens announces, gathering magic power into her hands.

Timothius and Raichel nod and delay a moment.  FWOOSH!  Screams!  2 hobgoblins drop to the ground!  Mits sidesteps to make room for Raichel.

"OK go!"

(( Timothius and Raichel delay. Burning hands hits, misses, misses, hits, hits!  Shift from p11 to q12.  12 damage Grunt 1 KO, Grunt 4 KO, Soldier HP: 35 ))
This message was last edited by the player at 06:13, Fri 13 May 2011.

  Kyle lines up a shot, and fires a competently dead on shot at the Grunt directly in front of him... Unfortunately, even with the most accurate ranged weapon in existence, and extra magical accuracy buff, 'roll of ten is good!' assumption falls flat on it's face dealing with +2 Lv enemies.

  Mastermind Lv 1 summons feel this pain every moment of their lives.  Please donate today.

---

Standard: M Weapon Vs Grunt 3, Miss.
Minor: Reload.

I almost posted this as a hit, cause '10 is always goodz and I got yay bonuses'. Good thing I double checked.

Tim shoots a ball of divine fire at one of the grunts, knocking it out and giving a glow about May. "Be careful, friend!" Great, Tim. NOW you notice you don't even know this kobold's name. What if she dies?

Raichel throws a lightning bolt that causes the grunt to dance at first, but Raichel fires another, making the grunt quake as the bolt then jumps and hits the soldier!

In response, the soldier charges at May, looking panicked! It hits her with some decent force, but the force field Tim gave May absorbs some of the shock!

May tries to retaliate, but misses. Still, she keeps the guy's attention.

(Tim Standard: Sacred Flame v Grunt 3. Hit!)
 Grant 4 temp HP to May
(Rai Standard: Lightning Strike v Grunt2. Miss. AP! Hit!)
 Secondary Target (Soldier) dmg: 8
(Soldier Standard: Charge v May! Hit!)
 dmg to May: 8 (4 temp HP absorbs damage) = 4
(May Standard: Shield Feint v Soldier. Miss!)
 Soldier marked by May

May HP: 20 - 4 = 16
Soldier HP: 35 - 8 = 27

"ZAP!" Mittens says as she fires a magic missile at the remaining hobgoblin while stepping back a bit, "Surrender you moron."

(( 6 damage.  Soldier HP: 21 ))

  Kyle takes Mittens's place in a moment of locational shuffling, and fires another 'well, that looked like a decent shot' attack at the soldier that manages to wedge itself in place between a pair of armor scales, but not deep enough to hurt.

  "Maybe, I can make them feel pity hard enough to knock him out?"

---

Standard: M Weapon, Miss.
Minor: Reload.

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 8/9 V 7 Inf 2

Useless Fact!  It takes Kyle a Roll of 12 to hit Soldier with 'uber hit bonus' Magic weapon... And  a roll of 12 to hit the Soldiers WEAK Defense -.o

Tim is glad to have shielded the new companion who is, for all appearances, doing as she said she would. But seeing how hurt she is, he says a prayer and May's wounds all vanish! Then Tim says, "Kord, bless my allies for their valor."

Everyone but the enemy get some illusory red flame on their fists that spreads over their weapons.

Raichel rushes past the soldier, who tries to swing at Raichel. Even as the soldier does this, May smacks him upside the chest with a nasty blow. The soldier hit Raichel anyway... or would have. He gets to see his flail deflect off Raichel's lightning shield before she point-blank fries him with massive amperage.

May looks ready to swing again, but the guy collapses in a heap.

May says, "....well... how about that? Oh! And thanks for the heal! Nice moves, friends!"

(Tim: Minor: Healing Word. Rolled 5. heals for 16 HP.)
(Standard: Prophetic Guidance. +4 dmg to everyone's dmg rolls. Reroll first missed attack)
(Move: N/A)

(Rai: Move: From P12 to Q9. Provoke AoO. Hit Miss thanks to storm soul shield.)
(AoO from soldier provokes AoO from May. Hits.)
 dmg: 14 (thanks to +4 dmg)
(Standard: Thunder Slam. Miss. Reroll thanks to Prophetic Guidance. Hit thanks to reroll + flank.)
 dmg: 22

Soldier HP: 21 - 14 - 22 = -15. KO!

  Meanwhile, in the next room!  Two incredibly badass Goblins with Sunglasses (okay, no sunglasses) hear the sounds of combat.  They flick aside cigars, and nod to eachother.  The first one backflips over the pit while the second one swings across a rope with their legs, land on the other side, and high five eachother.

  Right as our heroes are celebrating victory, the Gobling sharpshooters kick open the doors and both fire incredibly accurate... and woefully tiny, shots right into Raichel's chest.

---

Prior Turn
Goblin 1: Crit Longjump.  Goblin 2: Makes swing.

This Turn
  Sharpshooter 1
Move: Through door.
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Raichel, Hit (28). 5 DMG.
  Sharpshooter 2
Move: Through Door.
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Raichel. Hit (22). 6 DMG.

Sharpshooter 1 HP: 31/31 (Bloodied 15)
Sharpshooter 2 HP: 31/31

Raichel HP: 22-5-6= 11

"What the..." Mittens says, "Oh yeah?  Fireball!"

She swings her staff like a baseball-bat and knocks a orb of fire at them that splits in two!  One ducks, the other gets fire baseball to the face!

(( Move from p14 to p8. Scorching burst miss, hit!  10 damage.  Sharpshooter 2 HP: 21 ))

Timothy says, "Raichel!" and rushes over to be in front of Raichel like Mittens is. He reaches forward and twists his hand like he was opening a door. A runic seal appears on the injured goblin's forehead.

(Move: From P13 to R8)
(Standard: Astral Seal v Sharpshooter 2. Hit!)
 -2 penalty to all defenses.
 next ally who hits regains hit points equal to 2 + your Charisma modifier (3).

Raichel squeaks when the arrows (bolts?) go into her chest. Then her countenance becomes more feral as she growls and rushes straight forward, arrows still sticking out of her chest. She swings her staff, hitting both goblins in the face, sending teeth flying. Even as she was doing this, her leg was following her staff and kicks the more injured goblin in the side. The hook of Raichel's kick causes the goblin to stumble southbound.

(Minor: Razorclaw Shifting)
 +2 speed, +1 AC and Ref.
(Move: Q9 to Q4)
(Standard: Five Storms v Goblin 1 and 2. Hit. Hit.)
 dmg: 9
 Raichel heals for 9 HP thanks to Tim's power (5 + 4 from healer's lore)
(Free: Centered Flurry of Blows)
 dmg: 5 to gobby 2
 Slide goblin 2 from R3 to R4

Raichel HP: 11 + 9 = 20
Sharpshooter 1 HP: 31 - 9 = 22
Sharpshooter 2 HP: 21 - 14 = 7

May hurries forward and smirks as she sees an opportunity Raichel just opened for the shifty kobold. She deftly hops around the goblin without provoking any attacks and then smacks him a good one, downing the goblin!

(Move: Q11 to R5)
(Minor: Shift to S4 to flank with Raichel)
(Standard: Weapon Master's Strike v Goblin 2. Hit thanks to flank!)
 dmg: 8

Sharpshooter 2 HP: 7 - 8 = KO

  Not only has Kyle bee having just barely not adequate enough performanc this fight, but now they've got even more problems to deal with giving his recent allies a hard time.  Kyle decides to attempt a workaround of his luck, stepping closer to the chaos and commenting "Riahcel's so good, she doesn't even need to think about it to kick your ass."  That said, another crack of thunder bursts forth from Raichel and whacks the still standing Sharpshooter right in the face!  (If they had sunglasses, they would break in half... and then they would put on another pair).

---

  Move: Duh
  Standard: Thundering Armor On Raichel, Vs Sharpshooter 1. Hit, 10 Thunder DMG.

Effects: Raichel gets +1 AC (= 15) Until End Of Kyle's Next Turn.

Sharpshooter 1 HP:  22-10= 12

Kyle HP: 28/28 S 8/9 V 7 Inf 2

  The still standing sharpshooter looks to his fallen ally, then looks back to Raichel.  His hitpoints are still above 10.  <Manly>"I'm better with this."</manly> The Goblin holds up his Hand Crossbow,  <manly>"I don't need it for you."</manly>  No running away till he hits 10 HP.  So no backing off for a better shot.  The goblin casually pulls out their shortsword and carves his first initial into Raichel!... surprisingly didn't hurt as much as that sounds.

---

Sharpshooter 1
Minor: Draw Shortsword.
Standard: STAB Raichel! Hit, (22). 4 DMG

Fun Facts: While the hand crossbow is +9, their shortsword is only +6.  He don't need no stinking +9.

Sharpshooter 1 HP: 12/31

Raichel HP: 20-4= 16

Mittens snirks at Kyle's boast and eye-rolls at the goblin.

"Moron," she says, punching him in the face with a magic fist, "Sweet moves, there, Raichel and new girl.  You too, Kyle... whatever it is you just did."

(( Magic Missile.  6 damage, whee!  Sharpshooter 1 HP: 6 ))

Tim says, "You must've hit that guy really hard, Rai. He has delusions of grandeur." He makes a repeat of last turn and the seal appears on his forehead.

(Standard: Astral Seal v Gob 1. Hit.)
 You know the drill. -2 defense. +9 HP to whoever hits him.

Rachel smacks the goblin silly with her staff. He's already unconscious, but even as his unconscious form falls towards the ground, Raichel axe-kicks him the rest of the way to the ground. She looks ready to continue, but pauses. Her fur is still standing on end, but she calms herself.

She looks herself over. The arrows are gone and so is the zoro mark. Well... it's still in the clothing, but not her belly anymore. She looks around, ready for more fighting.

(Standard: Five Storms. Hit.)
 dmg: 12
(Free: Centered Flurry of Blows)
 dmg: 5

Raichel HP: 16 + 9 = Full
Goblin 1 HP: 6 - 17 = KO

May double-checks also, peeking in the room those goblins came from and then looks at the others. "Wow. What a bunch of great fighters you bunch are." She grins, looking ready for a fight herself. Heck, she didn't even get to use her encounter power yet. >:D

"Thanks, stranger," Mittens answers, "Nice fighting there yourself.  So what's your name.  And... I guess it's a foregone conclusion that Meriele was taken prisoner, then.  Guess may as well ask..."

Tie up prisoners, close doors, wait for May to respond, then wake prisoners for questioning.  That's the plan, anyway.

  No complete looting this time around for Kyle, he just replaces his few botched shots worth of ammo.  "Thundering Armor, A handy trick to have around but I tend not to use it very often because my other stuff is usually more practical."

  He looks over to May, "Anyways, I'm Kyle and I'll let the rest introduce themselves.  Unfortunately it does look like we've got another to add to the rescue list."  To be honest, even if it gives zero experience he currently holds Meriele's rescue over the other victims he's never heard of or met.

May answers, "Nice t'meetchya, Kyle. My name's May. Who's Meriele? And who are you all?" she curiously watches Mittens.

Needless to say, none of the goblins here were Meriele. Either she infiltrated deeper or was captured. She'll have an interesting story to tell in the end...

Raichel thought she was the one who controlled her thunder armor... "I'm not sure I understand, Kyle... you caused my inner thunder to come out? Or was the thunder from you?"

She then looks at May. "I am Raichel. This is my sister Mittens and my brother Timothius. You were a big help, friend."

Tim looks worried as one-by-one, the goblins are proven to NOT be Meriele. Of course, he nods to May when introduced. Then says, "I am sorry we had to meet like this, May. But I guess like you mentioned earlier... it's probably the only way we'd have ever met you. Rest assured, helping setting captives free will do wonders for your reputation. As for who Meriele is, she is a changeling who joined us in our quest and then decided to turn into a hobgoblin to infiltrate the base."

May woahs in awe.

He looks at the others. "We knew the risk letting Meriele go. But judging from the lack of blood that was in here before we started spilling some, I'd say she isn't dead."

Mittens nods.

"Was thinking the same thing, bro," she says, "I suppose it'd be a good idea to talk again about tactics.  May, I tend to open up with a huge fireball like you just saw.  Stand in front of it and you get burned.  So don't do that.  Other than that my usefulness is kinda limited.  Smaller ranged fireball, single target sure-fire magic missile, and a weak psychic attack.  Once a day I can break out the flaming sphere.  Don't stand next to it."

She questions a prisoner.

"What became of the hobgoblin who came in here before us?"

"He was taken prisoner.  He didn't know the passcode.  Didn't talk at all, even.  Musta been a mute."

"What's in the room to the west?"

"That's the One-Way Portal Room.  Sometimes stuff comes through the portal.  Can't return once they do, though."

"Where are the prisoners?"

"All over the place."

  "And, just what kind of stuff comes through?" Kyle asks regarding the vague portal talks.  He turns to Raichel and says "You don't have a wholesale monopoly on Thunder and lightning, I just generally prefer to use my crossbow because it goes a heck of a lot farther than twenty five feet like my own storm related tricks.  You probably won't see much of it unless a situation really calls for it over a crossbow bolt to the face."

Raichel headshakes at Kyle. "Never said I was the only one to use thunder. Just that I've heard some people have the power to wield their ally's powers. Wasn't sure if that's what you did or not."

Fighters hit the enemy with their sword. Warlords hit the enemy with their fighter.

Tim would wait for Kyle's question to be answered before asking the prisoner, "Where is the nearest prisoner?"

While waiting, Tim just looked around at his allies as they spoke. He wasn't sure about the kobold, and she looked rather unusual for a kobold.

May asides quietly to Mittens, pointing at the goblin, "Guy sure is cooperative..." then looks over at Kyle, listening. She smiles and tail-wags as she listens to her new allies gather more info.

"Dangerous monsters like a dire rat or a fire beetle," the hobgoblin answers Kyle, "Once a drake even came through.  The nearest prisoner is in the Von Urstadt Crypt through the west doors of the Portal Room then through the north doors past the coffins."

"How tough are the guards?"

"Tough?  I dunno 'bout tough.  They're gnomes.  But they've got these nasty fire scorpions as pets.  Keep your distance.  Very nasty burny sting."

Mittens looks over at May and shrugs.

  Kyle nods in regards to Raichel, "Allright then.  The end result does look sort of that way anyways, but it's a case of picking someone friendly and making with the thunder, self included."  Warlord Marshal Epic Weapon Proficiency: Dwarf On A Pole.

  "A room with a portal that spits out dangerous wildlife.  Yeaaah, How about we spend as little time as possible in that room and just go straight on through.  I kinda doubt these guys stop to fight things every time they have to travel between rooms.  Or, we could bring one of these guys with us and wait for the screams to tell us when it's no longer safe to stay in the room."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Sun 15 May 2011.

May says, "Fire scorpions? They wouldn't happen to be immune to fire, would they?" She then looks at Mittens. "Hard to not notice one of your best powers is a big honkin' fireball. And your bestest power, you mentioned, is a fire one also."

Tim says, "Skip portal room. Sounds like a good idea."

Raichel nods.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Sun 15 May 2011.

"I'm a pyromancer," Mittens says with a confident smirk, "I can make even magma beasts feel the burn.  Let's get to rescuing that prisoner!"

She heads for the west door.

  Kyle Follow is Haz.  Fail Post is also haz.

Portal Room Desc: A picture in the middle of this room shows flickering
images of a sinister castle in the middle of a swamp.

Illumination: The portal itself glows,
providing bright light within 5 squares.
Portal: The portal, once a connection
to another faraway castle allied with
Rivenroar, crackles whenever the image
flickers away. It’s a phantasm and can be
walked through as if it wasn’t there.

Von Urstadt Crypt:
The door to the west opens to a pitch black hallway that turns to the north after a few steps.

"Hmm," Mittens says, "I don't recall any mention of gnomes having darkvision.  I guess they didn't bother lighting the hall and there's another door before a lit room.  I'll be the torch-bearer."

She lights a torch and proceeds.

  Kyle is thusly saved the effort of strapping a lit lantern to his belt poor person utility belt style thanks to Mittens for the moment.  "Thanks Mittens.  I'd make some kind of comment on how this was the most peaceful room so far, but we've already heard what goes on in here"  Scoot scoot along is go!

Tim situates himself in the rear of the group and glows. "I'll light the rear so the others won't trip."

May hops over to be in front of Mittens. "I understand about your fire powers, but I'm not letting you be hit first thing." Besides, the torch is enough to show May the way even with her in front of Mittens.

Raichel smiles, walking between Mittens and Kyle. "Thanks, May." she comments.

(Tim uses Light of Order!)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:59, Sun 15 May 2011.

Initiative Order:


Gnome Skulks 20 + 8 = 28
Magma Claws 18 + 3 = 21
Timothy: 18 + 2 = 20
Raichel: 14 + 4 = 18
May: 18 + 0 = 18
Mittens 6
Kyle: 2
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:35, Sun 15 May 2011.

  With the lights and sounds, and then visual contact with Mittens Torchbearer, Durpy the Gnome springs into action, kicking the northern doors open and taking a wild shot at Mittens that only serves to alert her 'some jerk with a crossbow is around here'.  He scampers into the north hall as fresh from nowhere Magma Claws enter existence in the room, turn, and CHAAAAAARGE the party.  Hot pincher action clangs off May's shield, while Mitten's gets the worst cheek pinch ever.

  Meanwhile, Competent Gnome headshakes and stealthily creeps from out of sight to out of line of sight past the eastern curve.

  Kyle Lore Gets! "Ah crap, Magma Claws.  Not really scorpions but may as well be.  Try very hard not to let them drool on you, because you stick to the floor.  While on fire."

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  Gnome 1 Reactive Stealth: 16. Fail Due to Giant Glowing Scorpion?
  Gnome 2 Reactive Stealth: 23 (-5= 18) It's Good, even with full Move.

  Gnome 1
Minor: Open Ze Door!
Standard: Hand Crossbow Vs Mittens. Juuust Misses. I Dub Gnome 1 Durpy.
Move: Duh
  Gnome 2
Move: Duh
  Scorpion 1
Move: Doy
Standard: Charge (8 speed) Vs Mittens, Hit(22). 7 DMG, 3 Fire DMG.
  Scorpion 2
Move: Yup
Standard: Charge (8 Speed) Vs May. rolled 2 Miss.

Gnome 1 HP: 34/34 (Bloodied 17)
Gnome 2 HP: 34/34
Scorpion 1 HP: 64/64 (Bloodied 32)
Scorpion 2 HP: 34/34

Mittens HP/AP Situation: I lowered her surges to 5, and put her back to full HP for combat start. Also, I double check the 'milestone' definition.  Every two encounters without Extended rest, so Mittens back to 1 AP.
Mittens HP: 23-10= 13 S 5/7 V 5

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  Some Notes:  Chris, This room has Treasure Parcel's A and B in it, only needs 4 minute search for 5 person party to find.  If I had any say in Item layout, someone NOT Kyle should get goodies first. (and Kyle prefers Armor and Neck item over Superior Crossbow.)

  I can never remember, when its a case of matched numbers, if perc beats stealth, or stealth beats perc.  Due to the extenuating circumstances (releasing a Giant bright glowing scorpion), saying Kyle's 16 passive perc noticed Gnome 1.

  Kyle Rolled EXACTLY 20 total for Arcana Check.  So he knows up to powers, but not resistances... As if you need a check to guess a Scorpion made of MAGMA is resistant or immune to fire (In this case, just resistant).
  Facepalm Waving the DC 15 History Check to know its Von Urstadt Crypt, because it SAYS ON THE WALL 'Hail Von Urstadt' Yeesh.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:17, Sun 15 May 2011.