Welcome to the world of Quartilia. According to legend, the goddess Antowas created the world. She slept and an evil being named Jerado tried to take the world over. Antowas awoke and defeated him. But she slept again. And has been asleep so long now that what was once history is now Legend. Some believe. Some don't. Those that believe feel that Jerado has escaped his bonds and is re-awakening evil in the world.

Today, we start in the town of June (also known as June Town). It's a small town on the outskirts of the great city Kobul-Mussad. It is late afternoon and raining. Our heroes are here each for their own reasons, but all of them currently either at the Inn, or almost there.

(OOC: Please introduce your characters at the Inn, why they are here, and all that. I will introduce a quest after everyone establishes their existence.)

(GM's note: Near June Town, just outside of it, in fact, is the forest of Tro, where I originally had everyone start. It is made of trees that have no branches. Simply one large bud at the top of each tree. The buds that have blossomed display a large, shiny gemstone.)

---

Setting is strongly inspired by the video game Astal. Here's some screenshots:

See that giant bud in the background towards the left side of the pic? That's what the forest of Tro is full of.



Here's the wiki on Astal. Yes, I stole the names of the gods. What of it?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astal
This message was last edited by the player at 01:00, Sat 29 Oct 2011.

Joey is soaking wet when he arrives at the door of the Inn, giving his scales a metallic sheen to them.  He opens the door for Emerald and gives a sweeping bow to present the way.

"Ladies first, my sweet siren," he says.

As for what brings him here?  He's a paladin.  He goes where his superiors tell him to.

  Meanwhile, the man seated by the fire with passable flute playing has already dried out a while ago.  What dries faster anyways, cloth or plate?

  As for what brings him here playing a flute, he has a terrible singing voice is why a flute... Wait, are we answering the wrong part of a question?

OOC Style: So, Fox Avatar for a Changeling that looks like a Dragonborn who works for the president of Ow by brain.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:34, Sat 29 Oct 2011.

Sitting alone in another part of the room is a man that appears to be going over notes of some sort. He appears to be dry, which would indicate that he has been inside long enough to dry off if he had been caught in the rain.

Without looking up from his notes and journal, the individual mutters to himself, “I'm still no closer.. There must be a way to make it work.. I just have to find it.”
It would seem that this individual is so deep in his train of thought that he isn't paying attention to anything outside of his arm's reach.

A hooded, cloaked humanoid half the dragonborn's size enters the Inn. The small one takes the cloak's hood off to reveal a dry freckly redhead halfling. "Thank you, Joey. Sjek si nomag, svabol ui dout darastrix ominak?"

Her transition from common to draconic was effortless, like draconic was her native tongue. She even has some of the subtle hisses and growls down.

---

(Michael knows draconic (which his player spells dragonic with a g), so if the sudden use of draconic would draw his attention, he can catch what Emmy said. Either way, the translation is "If I may, what is your dragon name?" as she doesn't believe Joey is a name a dragonborn would give to their son, but that is the name he introduced himself with in the forest of Tro.)

Joey chuckles at the unexpected fluency from the little halfling.

"I'm surprised," he answers in common, "I didn't expect one of your kind to be so fluent with Draconic.  Well to answer your question, I was given the name 'Ishwavi' because I earned a reputation for being brutally honest."

He takes in the scene and picks a table.

"Care to join me for some repast, m'lady?"

He pulls out a chair for Emerald.

He gives a glance to Michael and says in passing, "May the goddess grant you success in your search."

Michael glances over to Joey sitting at a nearby table after hearing the comment,  simply says “Thank you,” since he doesn't wish to bring up the topic of his search.

Michael then turns back to his notes as silently looks over his notes one more time before he sighs and then puts the materials away in his backpack. Michael knows that he simply doesn't have the means to do what he wants to do at this time and staring at his notes isn't going to solve the problem. Michael also fears that if he continues staring at his notes, then he might have to explain to someone who looks them over as to why he is searching for a method to dispatch a demon while saving an individual whose soul said demon has taken. Michael knows that if he outright said that through the events that followed his attempt to save her soul, he now has to put up with a Demon that he can't destroy... after all how bad would it be if the townsfolk found out he had made a 'bargain' with a demon, and they would probably have him burned at the stake or something before he could even explain that he did it to save the soul of the woman he loves.

[OOC: Never noticed that I had that typo in there...(dragonic instead of draconic) probably have it in other character sheets as well... I'll fix that typo as I find it.]

  Peter's life is already looking up.  At least by comparison to nearby company.

  He lowers his flute to comment, "Alas, I merely have picked up Elven due to how common it is...  I can't tell if that is ironic in regards to the language or not."  Seriously, all the lore of how graceful and secretive elves can be and Elven is the equivalent of 'I know a little Spanish'.

OOC Style: I'm sure all of us have at some point come across some story where 'Player knows a little spanish, so GM lets that count as amount of elven known'.  My favorite version though was 'To other players, Elven sounds like a beautiful and haunting language.  To the Elf PC, they hear stereotype voodoo Jive talk'.

Emerald smiles brightly and nods to Joey. "Honored." she responds before sitting, pulling out pen and paper to make a quick note of Joey's draconic name. Then she hears Peter and ohs. "It's because humans are the most common race and of all the non-human races that have their own language, elves are the ones humans get along with the most. So it follows a common race who likes learning elf speak, spreads the joy of how eloquent the language sounds. Every language has its own charm. What was your personal reason for learning Elven?"

Unfortunately for Michael, as studious as Emmy is, it's already too late to keep the halfling from wanting to know what Michael was up to. He's fortunate, however, in that Emmy is currently distracted with two other people. But that won't keep her from curiosity for long.

Joey hmms at the new conversation striking up and nods to Michael.

"You're most welcome."

He returns his attention to Emerald and gives her a friendly smile.

"And you?  Your personal reason for learning Draconic?"

Michael responds to Joey's nod with a nod of his own, but remains quiet as he's still thinking to himself, hoping that no one asks him about the subject of his research as Michael is fearful that as soon as the word demon is uttered, he'd be chased out of not only the inn, but the area as well.

However Michael does his best to keep calm and relaxed as he figures the worst thing he could do is act nervous as that would no doubt draw everyone's attention...

  Peter smiles, "Well, the reason for why I learned Elven has been spoken of in a time long and forgotten in our lives.  I merely picked up Elven due to how common it is."  That time being a minute and a half ago.  Though apparently indeed long enough time to have been forgotten.

  "There really wasn't any deep and soul searching reason for the choice, though I will definitely remember the ones you gave because they sound a lot better." If refraining from the 'get along with best' part at least.  Really, picture what the stereotype outlook of Elves talking to humans is.  If that's the best, then Humanity needs to drop the abusive relationship.

Emerald smiles from Peter's response. Then glances at Joey. "Draconic is one of the first languages; lying somewhere between the languages of the gods and the languages of mortals. It is a strong language, having the power and might of dragons in every accent." She then says, "But I tend to study languages. I love them all, each for their own reasons."

Emerald quickly follows up by saying to Michael, "Excuse me, sir, but... I apologize if my conversation is distracting you. If I may ask, what is it you were studying?"

"Interesting," Joey chuckles, nodding to Peter, "A practical enough reason."

To Emerald he smiles.

"I thought you might be a linguist.  Your mastery of the language suggests you might be native to a place mostly populated by Dragonborn, but then I might have been able to pick up the region from the dialect or accent.  No yours is more fundamental.  But you put a very...  musical quality to your words.  Quite pleasing."

Joey picks up on Michael nervous attempt at trying to act calm and relaxed, but doesn't make comment.  After all, if there's an obvious paladin in the room, and he's not asking for help with his problems, Michael must have the kind of problem that a paladin has no hope of fixing.  Or is too proud to ask.  Either way, it's the man's own personal business, and it's rude to pry...  The halfling just pried.  She must not have noticed the guy doesn't want to talk about it and is simply being curious.  Oh well.

Michael shakes his head as he says, “Your conversation is not distracting me. But I'd rather not discuss what I have been studying as it is a personal matter. After all I don't even know who you are.”

Michael remains polite despite being mildly annoyed that someone who hasn't even introduced herself, is asking about his research. Then again Michael remembers the old adage 'curiosity killed the cat' and wonders if it applies to other species as well.. Michael then frowns as he realizes the same adage can apply to himself as well, given the nature of his research.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:56, Tue 01 Nov 2011.

  "I'd question the wisdom of reviewing private documents in a public place, but out here and in this weather I suppose your options are limited.  Though I doubt she will be so bold as to read over your shoulder."

  Emerald would need a stepladder at the very least to pull that off, even with Michael seated.

  He puts his flute away, and says "Though to avoid being quite as much a stranger as before, at least I can introduce myself, Peter is the name."  Peter!  you've just won 'First To Introduce Themselves At The Inn!' tell him what he's won!

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx_UJxuQGXo

  Of course, Joey wins 'First to have his name mentioned at all at the Inn'.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:09, Tue 01 Nov 2011.

Emerald smiles up at Joey. "Thanks. I do hope to get it down to where I can sound like a local just by listening to them for a little..."

To Peter, she nods and says, "I'm Emerald. This is Joey. I just came from Hallor. Heard there was someone here who has a job for adventurers. Bumped into Joey in the forest of Tro."

A man at another table says, "A job for adventurers ye say? Well ye heard right." The man is a dwarf with a scraggly beard, some grime all over him, and plain but practical clothing. He has a pick with him and a mug of ale in hand. "Now... I don't have much t'give ye fer the task I'd ask of ye. So ye'll be wantin' to go to the mayor's office. He can hire ye all official-like so ye can get paid."

Emerald says, "Thanks for the tip. I'll be sure to see the mayor soon, then." She orders the Inn's special and looks at the others. "So, Peter, if you're wanting company, you're welcome to come sit at this table." Michael, however, seems to want to keep to himself, so Emerald doesn't think to invite him yet.

"I'm sure you will," Joey answers Emmy with a smirk, before nodding to Peter.

"Blessings from Antowas."

He returns his attention to Emerald.

"Thanks for the introduction.  So you're an adventurer?  What sort?"


When the Dwarf speaks up, he listens.

"Hmm.  Thanks.  Happen to know the details of what needs done?  Is it urgent?"

Michael nods as he knows his options are limited, having little money tends to restrict ones options. After Peter introduces himself, Michael replies by saying, “And my name is Michael.”

Michael glances over at Emerald when she mentions that there is a job... and when the dwarf speaks up about a job and needing to head to the mayor's office Michael mutters, “My research is important to me, but it doesn't put a roof over my head or food in my belly. It won't hurt to at least hear what the job is for,” as Michael stands up and looks around to see who else other than Emerald and Joey are considering the job.

  "While playing a flute is certainly easier, work of the sort you mention tends to pay better.  Though I'm with Michael in wanting to know what the job is before asking after it."

  You tend to look like an idiot if you demand the Mayors time asking about a job, then go 'oh, nevermind'.

The dwarf says, "The local mine had been taken over by some kobolds, so the mayor sent some guys to check it out. They haven't returned yet, so he's gettin' anxious. Urgent? I think so. But then I'm just some dwarf. What do I know?"

Emerald says, "It is late, though... even if we went to the mayor now, I know I wouldn't have the energy to infiltrate a hostile mine for much longer. We could go to the mayor, get the details, then go to the mine first thing in the morning."

Joey jumps to his feet with a serious look on his face, snatches up his shield, and begins strapping it on.

"I'll head out tonight if the goddess allows it," he answers the Dwarf, "Where shall I find the mayor and the mine?"

He looks between Peter and Michael to see how willing they are to take on the quest with him.

Michael glances around and realizes that other than himself there are only three others who seem interested in the job, namely Peter, Emerald, and Joey and wonders if four people will be enough but given that he's down to his last few gold pieces, he really doesn't have much choice... he needs the money to 'pay the bills' and further his research.

Michael lazily leans on his staff as he says, “I see no reason why we can't see the Mayor tonight. Then spend the night planning, preparing, and resting before entering the mine tomorrow morning. After all, if there is a map of the mine, being able to study it before hand can come in handy. If an attempt at brute force has already failed, then perhaps tactics, strategy, and cunning are called for. Although we may be needed to head out tonight if time of of the essence and they are wanting us to try and save the first group that was sent into the mine.” Michael glances back and forth between the dwarf and the other three people who have expressed interest in the 'job' to try and judge there responses to Michael's words.

  While Peter is enthusiastic enough to take up this whole 'Smash some Kobolds' thing, he's not exactly leaping out of his seat in joy.  Plain old standing up works well enough for him.  "I somehow think the cover of darkness would not mask our approach very well when the destination is a cave.  How long has the mine been held, or would the finer details be better off told from the Mayor?"

  Four people.  Well, that was definitely better than three Dragonborn.  Just don't let them hear you say that, they may argue the math.

The dwarf says, "Talk to the mayor. If ye waste yer time talkin' to me, you'll miss the mayor since he's gonna go t' bed soon..."

Emerald asks, "Where's the mayor's office?"

The dwarf says, "It's just a few buildings down from here. Big sign with "Mayor" written on it."

Emerald blows upward on her hair, gazing at the menu. Then gets up and heads for the door, pulling her cloak back over her head. It is still raining, after all.

People are in danger!  Manners can wait.  Joey is already at the door when the directions are given.  As soon as he hears "Big sign," he marches off briskly in the direction of the Mayor's office.  If the door is unlocked, he'll walk right in.  If not he'll knock firmly.

Having heard where he needs to go, and that two people have already leaft to go to the Mayor's office, Michael walks over to the door and heads off to the Mayor's office. While Emerald uses a cloak due to the rain, and Joey seems, at least to Micheal, to not care about getting wet, Michael takes a different approach, he uses and sustains (by reusing) Prestidigitation to create a transparent 'personal' umbrella made of glass and transparent fabric that is attached to the top of Michael's staff, that keeps the rain from falling onto himself, his clothing, and and his gear.

Michael follows Emerald and Joey to the Mayor's office at a steady pace.

[OOC: This use of Prestidigitation is a form of the 'Produce out of nothingness a small item or image that exists until the end of your next turn.' option for the Prestidigitation cantrip... there is after all no limit to what the item is made of, or attached to, and in a compact form an umbrella is a small item as this umbrella is only big enough for Michael, it isn't one of those can shield your entire family large umbrellas.
Effectively 'each round, Michael would be using his standard action for Prestidigitation and his move action to move closer to the Mayor's office. At least till he enters the mayor's office.]

  So that was one Cloak user, one 'who cares, I have scales you lightweights', one fancy umbrella.  Tiebreaker from Peter?  Cloak User!... Wait, this wasn't a competition, oh well.  'Yet another reason for flutes, so much more weather resistant than a harp.'  You just missed a perfect rhyming opportunity there Peter, Lute man, Lute.

  "A little rain never killed anybody they say.  Unless you speculate on how, such as pardons of execution being rendered illegible and the like."

  Obviously they would enter the Mayor's building if everyone else did.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:12, Sat 05 Nov 2011.

Emerald jogs past Michael, but looks over at him with a smile. "Sweet! I gotta learn that trick one of these days!"

Joey would find the mayor's door is open and the mayor is an elderly human. The mayor looks like he's just awoke from a nap. He had been dozing off, but Joey's brash entrance woke him. "Oh... my... how can I help you?" the old man asks.

The others, Emerald included, would likely walk in a little bit after the old man finished asking his question.

"I am a paladin of Antowas," Joey replies, "These volunteers and I wish to help the people who have not returned from the Kobold invaded mine.  If there's any chance one of those people will not survive the night, I wish to stage a rescue right away.  However, Michael here wisely suggested a tactical approach by careful planning over a map.  Perhaps you've already thought of a way for a small group to infiltrate in comparative safety considering news got out that there is a reward being offered to adventurers willing to help.  Or any other details you could provide would be helpful."

Michael enters the Mayor's office just in time to hear the Mayor ask how he can help Joey, at which time Michael let's his 'conjured umbrella' fade out of existence. While Joey answers the Mayor's question, Michael leans on his staff and ponders using Prestidigitation to dry off anyone who starts complaining about being wet from the rain.

Michael doesn't feel the need to add anything to Joey's detailed line of questioning, thus Michael remains silent for the time being.

  Peter wouldn't really expect a Mayor like this to have a detailed battle plan prepared and waiting, let alone maps of the local problem area unless buried deep in a vaguely organized filing system.

  "Calling us 'Volunteers' falsely implies we would be willing to do this for free...  Well, Joey can if he wants to I guess.  I'm not so sure about the other two."  Evidence you don't need to be the one with the high Int or Wis score in the party to notice important details.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:35, Sun 06 Nov 2011.

The mayor blinks at Joey. "Wow... such enthusiasm and willingness..." he comments. "But I'm not tactician. I leave that to experts like yourselves. As for a map, well, I did dig up a copy of that just in case someone got the message. Seems one or more of you must have somehow." He offers a map. Then says, "As for volunteering for free or getting payed, that's up to you. The reward will be given to those who do the task regardless. But if you refuse payment, you could always just have the payment go to a charity of your choice."

Emerald goes to have a look at the map. "Joey mentioned some guys you sent who haven't returned. How long ago were they sent?"

The mayor nods. "Yes. Sent them out two days ago. Still no word. I fear the worst."

Emerald says, "Like they say; expect the worst, hope for the best. I'll look into it."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:52, Mon 07 Nov 2011.

"I feel urgency because I do not want to witness a captive die just as I arrive because I delayed," Joey answers, "A clear conscious is worth more to me than a mountain of gold, but I won't reject a reward."

He makes sure the map winds up in Michael's hands, figuring him the most tactical of the group for suggesting tactics in the first place.

"Is there anyone else willing and able to join the rescue mission?  There was a concerned Dwarf at the inn, but he didn't come here with us so I'm guessing he's either unwilling or unable."

Michael uses the Mage Hand Cantrip to take and unfurl the map so he can look at the map without having to hold it with a hand. Michael looks at the map and says, “This should prove to be very useful,” as Michael asks,  “Can you show us where the Kobolds entered the mine from if it wasn't the main entrance. assuming you know where they came from.” as Michael realizes that knowledge will come in handy when going through the mines to avoid being caught between multiple groups of Kobolds.

  Peter is expecting the extent of the Mayor's knowledge to be 'Kobolds bad! Kobolds do bad things!'.  As it is he is impressed the Mayor even had a map.  "I'd be more interested if this map was up to date, you tend to make more tunnels in mines, and some of them can end up not there anymore or close to it.  Though at least in these few days it is not very likely the Kobolds have dug anything new.  Except perhaps a back entrance in the first place."

Michael nods to Peter and says, “That is what I'm expecting, all I am hoping for is to know where the Kobolds dug into the mine and launched their attack from. If we can take the map with us, we'll update it if we find any areas not on the map. That way we can conduct a better search, and reduce the risk of being attacked from multiple directions at once if we ignore where the Kobolds are likely to come from.”

The mayor says, "They entered through the front. It's the only way in, if this map is accurate. As for the dwarf at the inn? I wouldn't know. What I do know is that the dwarves who are still here in town are not fighters. They are miners. I'm sure their wives and children have more of a say in the matter than they do."

Emerald says, "Is there anything else you can tell us that will help us?"

The mayor sighs, looking hesitant to say. Emerald reiterates, "What you tell us could save our lives."

The mayor says, "....the kobolds attacked alongside a dragon. It was a young one, though. One report said it was only the size of a horse. Still, they are powerful even at that stage. So be careful."

Emerald asks, "Why hesitate to tell us that?"

The mayor says, "When people hear "dragon", they run. I was afraid you wouldn't take the job if I mentioned it."

Joey wears a serious face.

"Those who avoid fighting dragons are wise to do so.  Few are the champions who could survive a fight with even a young one.  I will take the job.  By Antowas' blessing, I am confident I can hold off a young one long enough for a squad of archers to kill it...  If I'm backed  up by a healer or two.  So if you have any healing potions in town, they could mean the difference between life and death.

"That said, because I know Draconic I will attempt to persuade them to leave the mine voluntarily.  I will tell them that I told you that should I not return alive that you would collapse the entrance and call upon the regional lord's troops to finish off any that should manage to dig their way out.  Perhaps such a threat will convince the dragon to make a run for it.  I doubt it will work, but it's worth a try."

Michael chuckles as he says, “I wouldn't run even if you claimed the Kobolds has a Demon with them.” Michael almost sounds as if he is disappointed that the Kobolds don't have a demon with them.

  "Considering the size involved, I wonder if the Koblods are making the dragon work for them.  Fortunately, I am more than capable of keeping a straight face when Joey makes such bold faced lies.  I'd offer to make those claims myself, but I'm not one of the two that know draconic here."

  Peter considers the mayor.  "Of course, I will be very disappointed in you if you have made a 'mistake' in regards to how large the dragon is and I survive.  Considering that many would not take up this task if they knew a proper dragon was involved as you said."

The mayor says, "Our town doesn't have any alchemists or ritualists. So no... we do not have such convenient potions for you." It's a small town. "Go with Antowas." he just gives Peter a sad smile. "Young man... I have no reason to hate you so. If the dragon was any bigger, you would not survive to be disappointed, and I would have no reason to believe anyone I hire would be able to accomplish the task." he looks Michael over. Then Joey. "It's a good thing for me, I have such confident sorts going to fight."

Emerald gives Michael an amused look, but doesn't say anything regarding his comment. To Joey, she says, "I can heal you. I can mend your wounds using magic. So let's get going."

Joey gives a smile and gravelly chuckle at Michael's comment.  He surveys his new allies, pride beaming from his face.

"How fortunate I am to be blessed with such valiant allies!  Thank you all so much for joining me on this noble quest!  Like the mayor said, it's possible we are already too late to rescue the folks in the mine, but it's crucial we deal with this threat before anyone else is killed."

He gives Emerald an apologetic look.  "Please forgive my manners, Emerald.  Ordinarily I would say ladies first, but tonight my shield will go first..."  He at least holds the door open for his allies this time.  "And unless there's some overriding tactical reason to do otherwise, I urge you all to stay back at least 30' once we're inside the mine.  I'm thinking the breath attack of a dragon that size would be about 25 to 30.'"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Sat 12 Nov 2011.

Michael nods as he makes his Mage hand put the map into a pocket before he lets the Mage hand fade away and says, “Well the longer we wait the less likely we'll find survivors, so let's get moving but I doubt I'll be hanging back that far since it would hinder some of my tactics. But spreading out against a dragon would be a wise choice, but if we are going to fight as a group, we should travel as a group... a lone individual trying to be a hero will likely not live long enough to hear stories of heroic deeds.”

Michael walks over to Joey at the door and has already re-conjured the 'magic umbrella' on his staff for when he heads out into the rain. Michael plans on heading out as soon as the others are ready so the group sticks together.

  Peter nods in response to the Mayor, though he's still pretty sure desperate enough people will do some stupid things.  Even if that opinion can end up wrong.  "Being so far ahead we can barely reach you swiftly is one thing, but we shall be dealing with tunnels.  I would not be surprised if we'd lose sight of you completly half the time if you strayed so far ahead of us."

  Peter heads on out, adding "And if I'm smart enough to realize that you can wait for the obvious guardian to pass out of sight before attacking the rest of us, then the Kobolds would probably have even better ideas."

  Of course, May knows the hard way that even being close to the party, oh wow that can sting.

Emerald heads off with the team, letting Map-Michael lead the way as she pulls her hood over. She smiles and asides to Joey as they move out, "Glad you consider us valiant. But we'll just have to see how valiant we really are after we've faced the dragon. But I agree with the others; We stick together. We are a team, not the cheer leading squad of a lone paladin looking to be ganged up on." that last part said teasingly. Emerald then looks over and up at Michael. "...seriously, you have *got* to teach me how to do those neat tricks of yours." she bites her lower lip, clapping her hands in excitement over the magic. Then says, "So what was your schooling like? Did you learn to do those things as a kid and pull pranks on other kids? Or is it more recent than that and you see it more as a tool than as a toy?"

Michael sighs momentarily when asked about his schooling and magic, as Michael remembers the happier times before the incident that set him upon his current path, but nevertheless he replies by saying as the groups continues to its destination, “I have trained as a wizard, and the magic you have seen so far are just simple cantrips. In my studies I have learned many things, some of which are arcane, and some are not. I have some martial skill as well, for I have taken lessons on leading others in battle as a warlord. Needless to say, there are those in the order I am part of that do not approve of my lack of focus and devotion to the arcane. Yet there are others that appreciate the versatility. Overspecialization breeds in weakness.”

Joey smiles wide as he listens to his allies insist on staying close even after he warned them of the danger of dragon breath.  He raises his eyebrows in surprise upon learning the wizard has martial training but gives an "oh!" nod at Michael's saying he trained as a warlord.  The guy's talk of tactics sure fits his apparent mindset.

"Thank you all so much for your support," he says, "The more I hear the more I am humbled by your noble and true hearts.  If you all will allow me, I would like to trust you with a personal secret of mine that may come up in combat.  Will you keep my secret, please?"

  "Unless it's something that could directly effect our survival odds in our favor if known, I'd suggest such secrets be saved it until after this is over.  Less than selfish intentions or not, I would suspect secrets are much more easily kept after people actually aid each other in battle, as opposed to just talk about it."

  This logic wouldn't hopefully apply to anything about Peter, no, that would be crazy.

  "So, where does this leave your opinion on archers then Michael?  Not that I fall under that category." the displayed sling is definitely not a bow.

Emerald nods to Michael. "Heh... I'm quite versatile myself."

Emerald blinkblinks at Joey. The halfling looks up at him with a helpless smile, squinting as a few raindrops venture too close to her eyes. So she holds a hand up to shield her eyes. "Joey... you just met us. Unless the secret is something as simple as "I like collecting insects" or something, you probably shouldn't tell us yet. Personally, I'd like to hear your secret. But what I'd like more is for you to guard your heart a bit better. But I have to ask you.. what convinces you we're so noble?"

Michael looks at Peter and answers, “As long an an archer is supported properly I have no problems with them. Now I'd not want to lead a unit composed only of archers. When dealing with a group, the individuals within the group should have different skills, if everyone tries to rush into melee to use the same exact ability in the same manner, you'll be crushed by people who can manipulate the battlefield to make that ability useless. When dealing with a group what is more important is that the group can balanced where as each individual can cover for the weaknesses of another. If everyone has the same weakness, then if anyone can exploit that weakness, the entire group will be defeated.”

Michael continues to maintain his 'magic umbrella' as the group travels towards the mine.

"I suppose it would directly effect survival odds to know what your allies can and cannot do in combat," Joey answers with a sad smile, "Thank you again for your concern for me.  My secret is that I do not have a breath weapon like other Dragonborn do.  It's true my pride would be wounded should news of this get out, but I'm convinced none of you would be the one to let it out.  Why am I so convinced of your nobility?  Because of the direction your feet are pointed.  They are pointed toward danger, not comfort and safety.  That's pretty strong evidence in my book."

He smiles and nods to Michael's line of reasoning.

"I hope that I don't wind up being considered the weak one in your eyes."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:05, Tue 15 Nov 2011.

  "It's more that I don't care, than any sort of nobility honestly.  Also, pretty sure I'm not the only one doing this for motivations that are the same as roadside bandits.  Money is good to have, and violence looks like a fast path to some.  Main difference being the local law sanctioning the potential carnage."

  Peter shrugs "This doesn't mean I'm a bad person either, but I find myself looking at the actions more than the intent behind them sometimes.  We're hired killers.  Even if this comes to a peaceful solution by some miracle, this is the intent with which we were sent out."

Emerald ohs as Joey reveals his secret. "Your secret's safe with me. Though understand... for people like me, hearing you say that is almost like if I told you I'm embarrassed that I can't juggle 10-foot wide boulders. But I realize what it means for you. It's the same as if I had a secret that I can't weave my way through taller people. The pride of halflings, after all, is that we're nimble."

Emerald then looks up at Peter and says, "If you don't care about whether you get hurt or not, Peter, then what do you care about?"

Emerald occasionally eyes the makeshift umbrella. She is avoiding commenting on Michael's answer for now.

Michael smirks at Joey's comment about 'not wanting to be seen as weak in Michael's eyes as Michael doubts that his opinion will truly matter in the grand scheme of things. “Only time will tell.”

Michael then glances to Peter and says, “I'm sure you at least value survival. After all the dead don't have a use for money, can't take it with you wherever your soul goes.”

Joey chuckles at Peter's answer.  "Very well, sir.  Not nobility, just modesty.  And I see your point of irony.  Treatment for chronic pain or no, a barber is still a man who wrenches teeth from people's jaws.  And a surgeon is a man who lops off a foot to save the leg.  Yet he carries no guilt and gets paid to maim and cripple folks.  It is wise to remember these things lest the surgeon become callous and prescribe amputation when a less bloody cure would have worked."

He smiles at Emerald and nods a bow.  "Thank you for understanding."

He hehs and nods in agreement with Michael's logic.  "Good point."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:34, Wed 16 Nov 2011.

  Peter considers Emerald, "Never said I don't care about getting hurt, that's always a hassle.  Just musing on the reasons to risk such a thing.  I suppose my cares are basic, being able to get by in life without being too much of an asshole in the process."  He could not answer which of those two goals is the more difficult one.

  "On that note though, if you take it with you that means nobody else gets to have it.  At least, not until your grave is robbed someday."  The bright side of that inevitability is it does not tend to be your most despised relatives that get your money in that case.

Soon enough, the group spots the site several hundred feet away, sitting upon a small hill. The north and west sides of the map are impassable due to high piles of unstable rubble. The group must approach from the south or east (making it necessary for them to either scale the fence or go through the difficult terrain on the south and east sides of the map). The rain lets up a bit as the group gets closer still, though it's still a drizzle.

Atop a low rise is an excavation site, partially protected by a high wooden fence. Rubble lies strewn about the area. Currently, the group has gone un-noticed so far.

Emerald speaks quietly, "There's some openings in the fence, but it looks like loose rubble. And with the rain recently, we won't be going over that very easily." She pauses to listen. "I think there's someone... no... multiple someones... beyond the fence."

---

Perception Check
DC 10: You can hear the movement of small creatures beyond the fence.

Map is not yet ready. Maybe I'll have time to build it when I get back from the anime convention.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:37, Thu 17 Nov 2011.

Michael nods and grins as he whispers, “Well if there are only two ways to proceed, and one of them isn't feasible for us, how about I create a distraction by using another Cantrip of mine, Ghost Sound to trick whoever it is into thinking someone is approaching from the direction we won't be coming? I can project it up to 50 feet away from us. It wouldn't be likely to buy us much time as I doubt they woulf go rushing over to investigate the sound long enough for us to sneak past, but we could gain the element of surprise.” to the group as he explains a plan he has based on what Emerald has said about the terrain, and that the group isn't alone.

"I doubt sneaking is much of an option for me with all this noisy armor," Joey points out, "If I may, I would really like to be allowed the opportunity to speak with whomever is up there.  If you want to retain the element of surprise, you could find places nearby to hide and watch to see if they turn out to be the sorts to deserve to be attacked by us 'hired killers'"

  "If you're stuck being obvious, intending to be as obvious as possible then Joey?  Michael's idea is less risky as your way means you are their only target to vent their frustrations on if they won't leave the mine because you asked nicely."   On the other hand, a live target is a much better distraction than Ghost sound, if not for the fact Joey wasn't something you could just leave behind.

OOC Style: Peter Rolled a 10... So he gets a 9 Perc check whoops!

EDIT: Peter Initiative *Fistshakes* Rolled. A. Three.  So 7 Initiative
This message was last edited by the player at 01:00, Thu 24 Nov 2011.

Emerald says, "Peter's right, Joey. Let Michael test them with Ghost Sound. He could use the sound of an innocent person asking for help. That should really wet their appetite if they are evil. But if they should attack the sound, you can lead the way through the entrance they aren't going to."

She then gives a nod to Michael. "Do it."

Michael nods to Emerald and then uses his Ghost Sound cantrip at it's maximum range (50ft) from the group's location so he can make it so the sound appears to be coming from near the entrance with the boulders that the group won't be using.

Thus from the spot he picks to be the source of the sound, the voices of two young children can be heard speaking common, a girl crying about being lost, and a boy complaining about being hungry.

Michael thinks it obvious that if the others in the area are evil they would probably attack and either capture or kill wandering children, but if they were good-natured they might seek to help the children. And thus by the reaction the group sees, it should be possible to determine what the next course of action should be.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:51, Wed 23 Nov 2011.

https://docs.google.com/spread...iQ05aOG1ZcVFqWFBTR3c

Michael's initiative is a 16
Durtendin's Initiative is 15
joey init 7
Emmy init 4+3 = 7
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:06, Sun 27 Nov 2011.

The kobolds fall for it and go to check out the ghost sound, though only 2 of them do. They seem to mutter in draconic. Thankfully, Joey knows Draconic, so he is barely able to make out what they are saying.

Kobold 1: "Sounds like human children."
Kobold 2: "How do you know they're human and not elf or something?"
Kobold 1: "Elves don't cry. I think."
Kobold 2: "What about half-elves?"
Kobold 1: "Who cares? Stop being stupid and let's get those children."
Kobold 2: "They sound tender."
Kobold 1: "They will make for a nice snack for our master."
Kobold 2: "Ohhh... I'll love watching their scared faces before she tears them apart."
Kobold 1: "And the screams."
Kobold 2: "And the pleas for their mothers."

They then switch to common. "Heeeere, kiddies! We'll help you! Come here and let us take care of you!"

(OOC: Please finish rolling initiatives. Seth, you may as well also roll for your alt unless you don't have Durtendin done yet and need me to fill the spot for a bit?)

The sounds of children in distress also draws the attention of a lean and tall Wilden wearing hide armor and his blink dog companion. The wilden's skin is a camouflaged pattern of greens and browns. The wilden's eyes are bright emerald.

[OOC: Durtendin's Initiative is 15, Thorn (The blink dog) and Durtendin have both been added to the party listing on the map. Also Michael's initiative is a 16.]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:33, Sun 27 Nov 2011.

OOC: Joey would charge in with a berserker warcry if permitted a surprise round, I'm not entirely sure if he's permitted to by circumstances and the fact that I don't know if Kobolds are allowed to go first....

I feel stupid. Didn't roll init for the kobolds. XD Anyway, Michael and Durtendin are up. Then the Kobolds come next. Then Peter, Joey, Emmy. Map updated to include initiative order. Combat has begun.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:40, Sat 03 Dec 2011.

Michael moves and notices a clump of Kobolds and drops a Winged Horde on them, but only manages to 'mentally scratch' one of the three Kobolds with the attack.

[OOC: Move Action: Moved to G15.
Standard Action Winged Horde at I8, misses M3 and M4 but hits S3 for 1 pt of damage. S3 can't take Opportunity Actions until the end of Michael's next turn. S3's HP 24-1=23HP left.
Minor Action: Not used.

RPoL ate the original post when I was copy/pasting to create Michael's new post, so restoring what I can.]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:12, Wed 14 Dec 2011.

Durtendin and Thorn move 'up' towards the group as the wilden realizes what is going on as he approaches the scene, and he brings forth a vortex of water that appears amidst the two Kobolds that went out to try to 'capture' the children that Durtendin realizes aren't there. While one of the two Kobolds is quick enough to avoid the vortex of water, the other is caught up in it and killed.

[OOC: Move Action: Durtendin moves to N16, Thorn moves to M16 (technically they started within the start here area, but RP wise they were moving up towards the area)
Standard action: Grasping Tide at N6, attacks M1 and M2, misses M1, hits M2. As both are minions didn't bother to roll damage as any hit KOs the minion.
Minor Action is unused.]

"Oh, you did NOT just do that!" the remaining kobold minion yells. Mostly because the kobold Durtendin just downed was BFF to this kobold. After all, they liked spending afternoons together, watching people scream and writhe in agony.

The kobold doesn't have much else options but to charge Durtendin anyway. He COULD try to climb over the rocks, but he's a little too upset right now. Give him a few seconds and he might cool down enough to realize he's supposed to be scared. <Draconic>"INTRUDER TO THE SOUTH!"</Draconic> he yells as he runs, effectively sounding the alarm. Even as he says this, he skewers Durtendin in the side!

Kobolds come pouring out from behind the fence and all charge at the three nearest to them. Of the two who charge at Joey, one clangs against Joey's shield, serving as a distraction while the other penetrates the defenses and jabs Joey in the leg! Another one slips past Joey to attack the redhead halfling Emerald, but she raises her own shield in time to block it! Another one, way out of Joey's reach, charges at Michael, easily skewering through the wizard's clothes and into his arm.

The one that just hit Michael yells over his shoulder, <Draconic>"MAKE THAT FIVE INTRUDERS!"</Draconic>

---

Actions of the enemy:
Minion 1
Move: N5 to N10. Then for the charge, from N10 to N15
Standard: charges Durtendin. Hit(20)! damage: 4
Minion 2
Free: Lays on ground doing his impersonation of a possum. Minus the pretending part.
Minion 3
Standard: Full Defense!
Minion 4
Standard: Full Defense!
Minion 5
Move: L9 to G10. Then for the charge, from G10 to G13
Standard: charges Joey. Miss(6)!
Minion 6
Move: J10 to H10. Then for the charge, from H10 to H13
Standard: charges Joey. Hit(24)! damage: 4
Minion 7
Move: I11 to H11. Then for the charge, from H11 to I13
Standard: charges Emerald. Miss(7)!
Minion 8
Move: L11 to F10. Then for the charge, from F10 to F14
Standard: charges Michael. Hit(25)! damage: 4
Slinger 1
Readied Action: Sling Stinkpot vs first PC to enter H9 or I9
Slinger 2
Readied Action: Sling Firepot vs first PC to enter H9 or I9
Slinger 3
Readied Action: Sling Gluepot vs first PC to enter H9 or I9

Updated map to include the defenses of the PCs via comment tab on their names. Thanks again for all your work on the map, Seth! :)

Also, Peter has yet to place himself on the map.

Durtendin HP: 30 - 4 = 26
Joey HP: 33 - 4 = 29
Michael HP: 29 - 4 = 25
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:44, Tue 13 Dec 2011.

  Peter is new at this whole crazy mass combat thing, so he kind of panics and attempts to Bluff his way through this.  "Uh, that is, FINGER OF DEATH!" He points dramatically at the Kobold that attacked Michael, who quietly drops dead.

  '...I'll have to remember that one.'

---

  Joke Bluff Attempt: Rolled a 1, =9.  Peter's not fooling anyone.

  Standard: Taste Of Life Vs M8, Hits (superior Focus gives me reach).

  Effects: 5 Temp HP for Peter.

Minion 8 HP: 1-Death= Dead
Peter HP: 30/25 S 2 V 6.

Emerald attacks with her scimitar and misses the kobold. She then side-steps to hopefully set up for flanking.

---

Standard: Guiding Strike v M7. Miss(6).
Move: I14 to J13

Joey is so enraged by the these evil McEvil kobolds, he lets out a berserker "_rrRRAAARGH!" as he caves in the skull of the one in front of him with a headbutt, steps forward, beheads the one who hurt Emerald with a back-swing of his sword, and faces the last one that's nearby.

He gives it a divine "ROAR!" as a ghostly dragon's face briefly appears over his body, shaking the screen!

---

Virtuous strike v M6
1d20 +7 >= 15
10 + 7 = 17 ... success

Shift north 1 square to H13

ACTION POINT!
Virtuous strike v M7
1d20 +7 >= 15
6 + 7 = 13 ... failure HIT!  Thanks to Emmy's flanking!

Minor: Divine Challenge on M5
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Wed 14 Dec 2011.

Although annoyed at being struck, Michael realizes he can do more damage by repeating his attack on the three Kobolds that are still clumped up together. This time only one of the the two Kobold Minions remains standing as the other screams and collapses, and the Kobold Slinger is again struck by the Winged Horde and continues to be left unable to react to Michael allies’ maneuvers for the time being.
“It appears that my ruse to distract some of the Kobolds also drew the attention of a potential ally.” as Michael knows that there were only 4 in the group that left the town, but that the Kobolds claim there are five intruders. Michael doesn't care that he may have just revealed that he does in fact understand, and thus can speak, Draconic.

[OOC: Move Action: Unused.
Standard Action Winged Horde at I8, misses M3 (rolled a 1+5=6), hits M4 (7+5=12>11) dropping M4, and hits S3 (17+5=22>12) for 5 pt of damage. S3 can't take Opportunity Actions until the end of Michael's next turn. S3's HP 23-5=18HP left.
Minor Action: Not used.]

“I guess they forgot to count Thorn... soon they will realize why ignoring a Blink Dog is a bad idea. But for now, sticks and stones...” says Durtendin as he throws two magic stones without lowering his guard due to clever usage of his staff at the two minions that have moved passed the fence, but while he manages to strike the minion adjacent to him pushing it up to the north as it collapses, the other stone misses the minion by everyone else.

Then Durtendin moves to join up with the group as Thorn (a blink dog) moves up to the fence while adjacent to Joey, Durtendin, and Emerald.

[OOC: Minor action is unused.
Standard: Magic Stones vs M5 and M1, misses M5, hits M1 pushes north 1 square and drops M1.
Move Action: Durtendin moves to I13 while Thorn moves to I12.
Allies adjacent to Thorn can teleport to any other square adjacent to Thorn as a move action due to Blinking Pack Aura.]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:28, Wed 14 Dec 2011.

The one minion still left near Joey decides to try to eek his way out of this situation. "N-no more! I beg mercy! I beg of yoooou!"

The others at the ramp seem unphased and uncaring as they stand their guard like a couple sentinels.

---

Sorry, but you forgot Minion 4 used full defense, which brings his defenses up by 2, so Michael didn't hit him. Minion 4 still lives. I marked it on map this time.

Minion 3 and 4: Full Defense. Again.

Minion 5: Employing plead-for-life tactics.

Slingers revised readied attacks for when people get in range.

  Peter moves over to the western wall, a shot with his sling going wide over the Kobold's heads...  He's used to aiming at people that have normal height okay!?  "You would be more convincing if you dropped your weapons you know." He comments to the freaking out Kobold.

---

  OOC Style: Seth pointed out that he can't legally, even with our fast and loose initiative outlooks, go again before Joey goes.  So Joey can't wait for Seth's alts unless Chris COMPLETELY skips his turn.  And that would be terrible.

  As it is, it's the animal companion and the Vampire who are manning up to the front lines first.  Get with it Mr. Paladin ;P

  ALSO!  Okay, I'm hazy on the LoS for Slinger 1 and 2... but know for a fact Slinger 3 can't make a shot (now LoS or LoE) at I9 or H9 from where he is, in a 5 foot deep pit.

Move: H15 to D15
Standard: Ranged Basic vs M3, Miss (Rolled a 2).

Peter HP: 30/25 S 2 V 6

Joey leans forward to snarl at the surrendering minion, then punches it in the gut with his sword's pommel, knocking the creature out.  He then snatches it up by sliding his sword under it's belt and walks toward the other Kobolds.

"SKUM!" he hollers at them, "SURRENDER LIKE THIS ONE, AND LIVE!"
He pushes his fist forward then retracts it so the unconscious Kobold slides off his sword, hits the ground, and rolls down the ramp.

---

Standard: Virtuous Strike Joey v M5 1 14 + 7 = 21 ... success.  Minor: pick up KO Kobold.  Move from H13 to H10.  Free: Drop KO Kobold.

Emerald manages to suppress a yelp into a cute halfling squeak as she watches her team mates slaughter the enemy. The kobolds looking at the unconscious one look back at Joey and look scared. "The only scum here is this one who surrendered!"

Emerald points at the kobold with authority and answers, "You lie! And your breath stinks!" which causes the one kobold to keel over.

---

Move: J13 to H11
Standard: Vicious Mockery v kobold minion 4. hit(17)!

Kobold minion 4 = KO. Emmy actually isn't killing anyone. Yet.

Michael uses Winged Horde once again and this time manages to make the now last remaining Minion slump to the ground with its mind destroyed by the power, while S3 continues to swat at the seemingly annoying sprites eating away at his mind as he now becomes bloodied by the repeated Winged Horde attacks.

Michael then moves forward and coldly says, “These Kobolds showed no mercy to those from the town that they attacked so why should we show them mercy? We aren't attacking their home, we are reclaiming an area they recently stole from the townfolk who requested our assistance. I will not stop others from showing lenience if they wish to, but I will not hold back against those who I know would seek my death if given a chance. I believe that mercy is for the weak and the weary, but never the wicked.” Michael has a disgusted look on his face as he reveals that like Joey, he too overheard and understood the two minions that were joking about feeding defenseless children to their master, presumably the small dragon. “And make no mistake, these Kobolds are wicked. I overheard two of them carrying on about how they couldn't wait to feed the defenseless children they heard from my cantrip to their master.”

[OOC: Minor Action: Unused.
Standard Action: Winged Horde, finally hits M3 (19>13) and S3 (24>12) S3 takes 6 physic dmg and still can't take Opportunity Actions until the end of end of Michael's next turn. M3 is out of the fight, and S3's remaining HP is 18-6=12HP and is now bloodied.
Move Action: Move to H12.
If Joey could overhear the two Minions with a passive perception of 10, then Michael's Passive perception of 12 would have let him hear them as well.]

Durendin and Thorn move around the fence and forward until they are adjacent the start of the stairs but neither of them sets foot on the stairs yet, figuring they should let the Paladin go first. Durtendin then calls forth a sudden growth of natural plant-life, making the area near S2 and S3 difficult terrain. Durtendin then says, “While Nature can be cruel, information can be more useful so at least taking a few prisoners will enable us to find out more about what is going on here.” as Durtendin calls forth smoke as the ground around Slinger 3 and Slinger 2 blackens as foul smoke rises in a roiling wall that shrouding part of the battlefield in a toxic smoke. The already bloodied Slinger 3 gasps for air as he collapses unconscious to the ground. Slinger 2 grasp at the ground as the smoke tries to force him into the pit and manages to grasp some of the new growth to avoid falling, presumably to his own demise, but is now prone on the ground where he previously stood.

[OOC: Move action: Durtendin moves to I11, and Thorn moves to J10.
Minor Action: Place Nature's Growth centered at I6. (Close Burst 1 so actually it affects the southern slope of the pit, both at H5 and I5 and 1 square beneath that, which happens to make climbing down the rope ladder a bit more difficult as it would take 4 squares of climbing to move down just to the edge of the area where the rope ladder leaves the zone of Nature's growth. Due to having to first move to either H5 or I5 and then down 1 square, thus 2 squares of difficult terrain. Not that Durtendin even realizes there is a rope there, he was just targeting the area between S3 and S2.)
Standard Action: Wall of Smoke hits both S3 (23>12) and S2 (19 > 12) for 13 damage. S3 is KOed as 12HP-13=-1HP left and out of the fight. S2 is now bloodied as 24HP-13=11HP. S2 makes his save so he isn't slide NW 1 square into the pit and falls prone in his current square (J5) while S3's unconscious body is not slid at all.
The Wall of Smoke persists until the end of Durtendin's next turn, while it persists, each square it occupies is lightly obscured AND any creature that ends its turn within the wall will take 4 poison damage.
S2 is lucky I checked how much damage it would have taken if it had failed the save, and it would have taken 20 damage from teh 20ft fall (max dmg on a 2d10 roll and that would have killed it... so I think S2 may be a bit worried atm as in a single move another of the slings was dropped and he was bloodied and almost killed.)
Yes S2 is both prone and lightly obscured so he'd currently get a +4 bonus vs any ranged attack (unelss the person is adjacent to it and then it is only +2) made against him, and would be at -2+2=0 for melee attacks area and close attacks are at normal defenses as neither prone nor partial concealment affect those attacks.]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:59, Thu 15 Dec 2011.

When Joey got within sight/range, the slingers all loosed their shots at him. And all missed or bounced harmlessly off his armor. Of course, Durtendin downs one of them.

Slinger 1 books it. <Draconic>"I'm warning the others!"</Draconic> he yells as he hops down the hole. Apparently, there must be some way for these kobolds to go down that hole without committing suicide.

The remaining kobold says, "Curse you!" and hops down the pit after his friend.

---

Durp. Forgot to do readied actions against Joey when he entered line of sight. Oh well! All of them missed!

But that was readied actions. Actions this round:

Slinger 1: RUN Move to put, climb down as part of move.
Slinger 2: Stand. Then RUN move to climb down pit.

Encounter over ...unless you give chase before resting.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:23, Thu 15 Dec 2011.

Seeing the kobolds fled, Emerald walks over to the others.

Emerald says, "Mercy is for anyone who will have it, but I heard what the kobolds said too. If every kobold here likes watching children scream in pain, then sure, I vote we kill them all. However, those two might very well be the only ones in this camp who think quite like that. Unlikely, but still there's a chance."

Joey heads over to the mouth of the hole, throws his sword into the ground at his feet, takes out his javelin, and throws it down the hole.  Fortunately, his allies can't see just how poor his aim was.

---

Move to H6.  Free: Drop sword.  Minor: draw javelin.  Standard: roled a 1 on basic ranged attack.

  Peter advances to the edge of the small pit, and prepares to convince something to get closer if there are any last minute pop-ups to mock them or something...  Yeah, that's probably not going to happen (even without the fact Peter's pre-roll is a failure).

---

Move: D13 to F8
Standard: Readied action; Dark Beckoning to visible enemies (such as if Seth pulls off dragging them out of the hole).  Rolled. A. 3.  Goddamnit that's Six five-or-less rolls out of eight lately (At least the 5 hit something).

  On the bright side, at least the one attack peter hit with, gave him temp HP

Durtendin quickly dismisses his zone of Nature's growth when it no longer is useful and the vegetation returns to normal. Durtendin and Thorn then move up to the pit and both notice the rope ladder as Durtendin stays up top as he says, “Get him Thorn.” as Thorn charges down after S2 quickly climbing down the ladder and bitting S2 to get his attention before teleporting down beneath S2, blocking the Kobold's escape route.

[OOC: Minor: Dismiss Nature's Growth
Move Action: Move Both Durtendin and Thorn will move up. Durtendin will move to G5, Thorn will move to I6 so he is 2 squares from S2 setting up for a charge.
Standard Action: Thorn Charges (only covers 2 squares but has to spend 4 move due to the extra movement taken up by climbing and passes climb check) bites S2 (successfully for 4 dmg, leaving S2 with 7hp already checked, and S2 succeeds on his climb check to avoid falling due to taking damage), and then Thorn teleports 2 squares (which will put him on the ladder below S2. (Thus blocking off the path unless S2 can reduce Thorn to 0hp.)]

Michael moves towards the pit and uses his power of Hypnotism on Slinger 2 as he says in Dragonic, “Get back up here!” and Slinger 2 is slid back up the ladder and left adjacent to Joey before Slinger 2 realizes what has happened.

[OOC: Move action: Move up so that Michael'll be adjacent to Joe and Durtendin (G6)
Standard Action: Hypnotism (hits. Thus S2 will be slide back up the ladder to I6.
Minor Action: Unused.]

Slinger 2 considers a ritual suicide out of spite. But he knows he's dead either way and figures he would cause more annoyance by injuring someone. Which he doesn't manage to do.

---

Slinger 2 rolls a 4, not hitting anyone regardless of what his attack is.

Emerald heads over to be next to Joey and Michael, then smacks the kobold silly with the flat of her blade. He collapses in an unconscious heap. Emerald says, "That's some impressive power, Michael..."

---

Move: H11 to H7
Standard: Guiding Strike. Hit(19)!
 dmg: 8

S2 HP: 7 - 8 = KO

Joey kneels down to see if the foe is still breathing.  When he finds it's still alive, he makes sure it no longer has any sharp objects handy and ties it up.

"I agree with Emerald," he says, "And dead foes tell no tales of hazards.  We can leave it to the locals to try those of our foes whom we capture alive."

He makes sure the one who surrendered is marked as such and makes sure all who survived are bound and stripped of sharps.  He then wakes one and questions it.

"Tell us what to expect in the mine.  What sorts of traps have you prepared?"

Kobolds respect dragons.  Dragons have sharp teeth and piercing eyes.  So does Joey.

---

Joey intimidate

1d20 +11
20 + 11 = 31!  Sheesh.

This post includes Joey's 5 minute rest.  Tieing up kobolds isn't that strenuous.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:26, Mon 02 Jan 2012.

The kobold answers, "Traps?! I don't know! I only know I'm supposed to be here, guarding the entrance! But you can expect to meet resistance in the mine. The wyrmpriest knows magic and he's scary! And there is a dragon in there! Don't go in or you'll be sorry!"

  "How did you even get the dragon in there?  Is there a second, larger entrance?  Or did you hatch a dragon egg down there before realizing you couldn't get them out?"  The important questions like 'what will try to kill us, specifically' were a bust, but more nonsensical ones had a chance, maybe.

Michael comments, “Either it is a newly hatched egg or an relatively young dragon if it can fit through this hole. There is also the possibility that the dragon is fake and just a lizard with a harness and fake wings or something the kobolds are using to intimidate people with. For all we know it could be a demon masquerading as a dragon for laughs so we can't ignore it whatever it is, shape-shifting would be one method to get a larger creature through a smaller passage. In any case, it may still be dangerous, so don't drop your guard...” Michael grins as he continues, “If it is a dragon, I call dibs on getting a pair of dragon-skin boots. Although I'd prefer a dragon-leather vest but I doubt there is enough leather for that.” The human wizard considers the 'warning' about the wyrmpriest and figures that kobold is probably going to be a pest but will have to be dealt with harshly.

Durtendin looks at Michael as Thorn climbs back up the ladder and says, “Don't count your eggs before they have hatched, even if there is a dragon, by the time we are done, we won't know if there is enough of it left to do anything, or worse what if the dragon is some horrid shade of pink? Do you really want pink boots or a pink vest?”

Michael blinks for a moment before answering, “No. Okay I get your point.”

Durtendin sighs a bit as he doesn't even want know if Michael is being sarcastic, or if he really wants to make trophies of his enemies to keep.

Emerald says, "We'll deal with loot once we're done. Until then, we should focus on winning while staying alive. I doubt these kobolds we just defeated are the elite that are likely waiting for us inside."

Joey nods.

"They now know we're coming," he reminds, "Let's at least not give them enough time to plot a proper defense."

He descends the rope into the mine below.

  "Yes, people tend not to get paid for failure.  And that's assuming they survive said failure."  The heavily armored Paladin going first?  Peter has no problems with this.  Though he follows closely after considering in theory Peter is the second most melee oriented party member.

OOC Style: Peter Initiative: 21

Michael sighs and says, “Joey, don't rush in hastily. We have to make sure the surviving kobolds are properly restrained, so they don't try to ambush us from behind during the battle. And odds are that the Wyrmpriest is already prepared for us due to traps that have already placed, Kobolds are known for placing traps, and they wouldn't wait for the last minute to place them now would they? Plus they probably heard the fight, let us plan what we are going to do, just rushing in after them is going to result in us blundering into a trap. Besides, I don't believe we have been properly introduced,” as Michael turns to Durtendin and briefly introduces himself, “I am Michael, what brings you to this parts anyways? I know it was my ghost sound that probably drew you into the fight against the kobolds since it revealed what the kobolds' intentions are.”

Michael then proceeds to assist whoever is tieing up the surviving Kobolds and making sure that they won't be able to break free of their bonds so that they can be taken to the town both as proof of what has transpired, but also so they can face the town's judgement for their crimes. While Michael likes loot and profit, he does not ignore justice...unless it is standing in the way of his personal goals, but he doesn't feel anyone present needs to know that just yet.

[OOC: While Michael has only used at will powers, Durtendin has used 2 encounter powers, plus the group hasn't been properly introduced to Durtenden yet, so it would be prudent to learn a bit about him right?]

Durtendin nods and says “You may call us Durtendin,” as Durtendin points to himself, “and Thorn,” as Durtendin points to his Blink Dog companion. “We have been together since we were both young. We were in these parts as we have noticed indicating that something is out of balance in the area. Possibly due to these kobolds and their dragon if it exists overhunting the wildlife in the area.”

Durtendin assists in restraining the surviving Kobolds and then proceeds to rest a bit as he says, “Given how we have been on the move for some time prior to fighting the Kobolds, it would be good to rest for a short while,”

[OOC: Durtendin needs a short rest as he's used up his encounter powers.]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:55, Thu 02 Feb 2012.

Emerald gives a nod to Durtendin. "It's a relief to have you with us. We'll be facing odds that you are leveling out for us."

Once tying and such is done, Emmy peeks down the hole. "They know we're coming. We'll need to proceed with caution. Maybe one of Michael's illusions down the hole first to make sure we won't get attacked immediately."

"An honor to meet you and your companion, sir," Joey says with a slight bow, "I apologize for overlooking introductions, I'm just feeling the urgency of our mission.  The captives may only have moments to live.  As Emerald said, your clearly capable aid is most welcome."

He then nods to Emerald.

"A good plan.  If we're all ready, I'll wait half way down the mine shaft for Michale's illusion.  There I'll be poised to charge the enemy should they fall for the ruse."

If given the go-ahead, he heads down the hole.

  "I can't think of anything offhand that would keep them from attacking, but almost anything at this point would probably be an illusion that could get attacked first.  Well, aside from setting off traps or something."  Hmm, note to self.  Live captives means he could probably kick them when they were down if he needed a pick-me-up after a fight.

  Give a Vampire enough five minute breaks with a captive, and you'll give a vampire kill free hitpoint maxing.

Michael looks at Emerald and says “Peter is right, my illusions could only prevent an attack on us if it could trick them into unleashing a trap prematurely and frankly I doubt we'll be able to do that since I need line of sight to the illusion, so I wouldn't be able to do anything beyond the bottom of the opening. And if the trap is triggered by weight we'd have more chance to trigger it by tossing down a tied up prisoner, but I think there are those here who would disapprove of that. But that is the only thing we can throw down there that would draw a response from any enemies other than attacking, since if they go to help their ally, we can ambush them from above.” By the tone in Michael's voice he makes it clear that he doesn't disapprove of it, but doesn't think it would work either.

[OOC: Spending a healing surge during the short rest to recover lost hit points.]

Durtendin nods to Emerald and Joey before saying “Well now that introductions our of the way, we should decide what to do with the prisoners quickly before moving on, and I don't think throwing them down a pit would be productive... after all if there were traps based on weight at the bottom of the pit they would set them off when they went to run away from us.”

Micheal shrugs and retorts, “Not if they only armed the trap after they were all clear of the area.”

Durtendin opens his mouth and then closes before waiting a second as he thinks up a response by saying, “Then wouldn't a simple rock be sufficient. Why waste a prisoner on something that sadistic?”

Micheal shrugs and retorts, “Like I said, I know people would disapprove, but that doesn't mean it still isn't an option.. Never said it was a 'good' option now did I?”

[OOC: Healing surge spent to recover lost hp during short rest.]

While Michael argues with Durtendin, Emerald grabs a nearby rock that's heavy and raises it over her head before hefting it downward with as much force as she can. The rock slams into the ground in the pit, making the sound of rock on stone. But no traps are set off. "There. Let's get going." She looks at Joey. "Big, mighty paladin first?"

Durtendin notices what Emerald does and smiles before saying, “Thank you,” as now there is no reason to continue discussing about throwing a tied up kobold down a pit.

[OOC: Rolled Initiatives and Michael ends up at Initiative 5 and Durtendin at Initiative 4.]

"Unless there's any doubts that the ropes will hold, we should just leave the prisoners here," Joey says before looking over at Michael, "I for one would not argue that these foul villains are undeserving of such treatment.  Thank you for not limiting your tactical suggestions on my account."

Then to Emerald he says, "And thanks for your practical initiative."

Once everyone's ready, he'll head down the shaft.

  In a case of meta Dejavu, Peter opts to follow directly after the Paladin.  "While it's always good to put some thought into things-" Said the 9 WIS guy... "An hour of preparation on our end is the same amount of time for them to build traps from scratch.  And we have a whole lot less to work with."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:27, Sat 04 Feb 2012.