It's another gloomy day in the city of Theranin, a port city on the Bay of Sheawick. The dark sky speaks of the snow that is bound to fall and the bay has already begun its yearly freeze, bringing shipping traffic to a crawl; only a couple more weeks and it will stop completely until it thaws again in the Spring. Gren always dreads this time of the year as work becomes slow, only being able to find a job as a bouncer in The Salty Seawife, a small tavern near the docks frequented by men of the sea, more so now that they have to wait out the ice. During his spare time today, he finds himself wandering through the market district of town near the town square where there seems to be some sort of commotion going on...

Waiting in line to enter the walled port city, Dale finds himself dozing off; it's been a long journey from his midland hometown of Falmerung. One of these times that he decided to inspect the inside of his eyelids, a voice bounces off the inside of his head, "Wake up boy! They aren't going to let you into the city if you look like some good for nothing layabout." Giving a bit of a start, Dale looks around a bit unsettled before he realizes it was his black blade berating him once again, not some random passerby. At least he had refrained from speaking out loud to the blade again, a mistake he frequently found himself making since his acquisition of it. It takes a while before his turn comes to enter the city but as soon as the guards deem him worthy to enter, he finds himself getting bustled along the busy streets towards the town square...

Having snuck into the city after being turned away at the gate with more than one suspicious look, Nori squeezes the water out of his beard, a byproduct from having swum into the dock area, no small feat seeing as the water was close to freezing but the dwarfs constitution was strong and he grew up in far less forgiving places than this. What he needed now was a good, if not quite honestly come by, meal and a way to warm his bones, preferably in liquid form. Following his keen sense of smell, Nori ends up coming around the corner next to a baker's hawking cart. Having not been seen by the proprietor, he pockets a small sweet roll and makes his way away from the cart at a brisk pace heading into a crowd to break line of sight...

It was not often that a monk set off on a journey as young as Taron had; most had at least seen their 40th name day and already had a good deal of worldly knowledge to guide them. Being connected both to his brotherhood and the call of nature though, complements of his father, he had felt inclined to start early. There were plenty of places that he had never heard of, let alone visited and where better to start than the trading city down the coast from his monastery? 'To learn to be steady and stalwart as the mountain,' his fellow monk Cayson had told him, 'one needs to learn patience and tranquility while under the most arduous situations.' Maybe he took it a bit too literal by seeking out trouble to overcome but he was here and he might as well make the most of it. As he wandered the city streets after setting himself up at a local inn, he heard commotion and expectant conversation coming from a crowd that had gathered in front of a large, intricately decorated building...

This is not what my talents should be being used for... Tempus thought as he waited, crouched lazily on the balls of his feet in the entrance of an alley looking out on the town square. Hired as a bodyguard for the days proceedings, he was a bit out of his comfort zone. His specialty was more in the trapping of individuals, not what happened after his enemy was aware of his presence. Regardless, he held his weapon at the ready, making sure he was going to earn that gold reward they promised him for protecting the key speakers today. Suddenly the crowd begins to grow loud and cheers begin to ring out as large oaken double doors open on the top of a balcony overlooking the square...

Vivo had traveled to the northern reaches of the kingdom in search of answers that would lead him to knowledge on the workings of life and death. Where else to look first but an environment that actively seeks to catch its inhabitants unaware and offer death's embrace at the slightest provocation? Pushing his way, a bit aggressively, through the crowd that had assembled, Vivo feels a little conspicuous. Being a half-orc, not everyone saw you in the brightest of lights. You could extend your hand in friendship only to have it cut off by some biased fool. Better to stick to ones self and depend on your own skills than regret your dependence on another. That was if you didn't include his white fox familiar Etulo, currently perched on the wit's shoulders, wrapping himself around his neck to keep away from the trampling feet of the busy city. Halfway across the square though, people began to point and look at four figures coming out of a door up on the balcony of a rich-looking building. Curious, he stops to see what all the hubbub is about...

The voyage north by boat had been a nightmare; storm after storm had plagued their voyage and Erasmus didn't even know if the vision he had from his goddess spoke of this place. No grand city of gold or home of famous rulers, Theranin was just your average city with your average people. All he knew as he walked the streets of this unfamiliar town is that somewhere here in the northlands, the Dawnflower wanted him to be present and ready to do her will to help those poor misguided souls in need of redemption. If he could attain success here, perhaps he could be the one who found a way to help his family out of poverty back in Moil. Suddenly, from a street over, he hears screams of panic and rushes towards them, hand on his weapon, ready to defend the innocent if he must. As he turns the corner, a large dust cloud is just beginning to settle...

---

As the various visitors to the city stand spread out in the sea of people, intrigued by what could be going on, they see four men, all but one of them showing considerable signs of age step out to the railing of the balcony to address the crowd who have begun to cheer for these figures. From somewhere on the ground in front of the building, you hear a loud voice rise over the crowd, obviously aided by some sort of magical device, "Ladies and gentlemen! I present to you your candidates for election to the city council! Aroth Degrin, Thelry Studart, Vyncent Lacio, and Selmund Wulfa!" At the statement of each of their names, the candidate waves, from left to right. The younger man, no more than 30 is the first to be introduced, the second a balding man of broad shoulders and bushy eyebrows with a stern face, the third a smaller man with long pure white hair tied back in a ponytail with a fatherly look about him, and finally the only elderly man to have any color left in his hair, a black haired man who is hunched over railing a bit but looks quite at peace with the proceedings and seems to get the loudest cheer of all the candidates so far, a fact that does not go unnoticed by the other three who shoot him quick looks while wearing fake smiles.

The man announcing the event continues in an authoritative voice, "As you all well know, the election will be held two weeks hence and the winner will be put on the city council for the next three years so choose well and choose wisely! We will now hear from the candidates their statemen-" the man is cut off by a loud cracking noise as the right side support of the balcony snaps, collapsing part of the deck the candidates are standing on! The first three candidates manage to hold on to the railing to save themselves from the fall but Selmund Wulfa, being older than the rest, fails to cling to the railing and falls three stories to disappear beneath the crowd who begins to surge with panic, screams and cries for help ringing out in the air.


Actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:27, Mon 26 Mar 2012.

Gren Boarshead hated this time of year.  It wasn't the cold; he grew up in the wilds and was used to that.  The harbor would soon freeze up, his day job would come to an end.  For many moons now, Gren had started feeling trapped.  The coming of the ice meant he would have little to do now but to sit around in the common room of the Salty Seawife tossing out the occasional drunk.  As pleasant as the place was, the thought of spending both day and night there depressed the giant.  That was one reason he was treating himself today.

Gren, the half-ogre, moved through the market snatching up sweet treats and looking for the ingredients for a special evening meal.  He had just purchased a giant handful of strawberries.  They were all bruised, and the old woman had charged him twice as much as usual for half again as many; but these were the last of the season.  He wouldn’t see the sweet red berries again until the frost began to melt.  Before he could move on to his next purchase he found himself standing in a sea of people.  They were all staring up at the balcony of one of the nicer buildings in town.  Trapped again, he thought with a sigh.

Standing two or three feet taller than those around him he at least had a clear view of the announcement of the political gathering.  Too bad he didn’t care.
Gren had nearly died in these streets.  One of the local wizards had hit him with a spell that never missed its target.  He was then dragged out into the streets to die by an invisible servant.  Gren survived, and eventually reported the incident; but nothing came of the matter.  The wizard who should have been shackled in some dank dungeon was never punished.  Whatever political leader was put into power would have to be better than the one that currently existed.  Luckily, Gren had yet to encounter the Wizard and often wondered what he would do should they meet face to face again.  If he were like his brothers, he’d rip the arms off the man and beat him with them.

Lost in his thoughts, Gren absentmindedly popped large strawberries in his mouth.  He hadn’t even paid attention to the names of the politicians as they were introduced.  He didn’t hear the crack of the balcony support.  But suddenly, the crowd surged forward knocking the remaining berries from his cupped hand onto the ground below.  Gren groaned out loud in disgust and was surprised when the rest of the crowd did as well.  At least they were sympathetic for his loss.  As the berries were stomped into the ground by shuffling feet he came to the conclusion that something else was up.  He looked up and saw the situation for what it was.

The old dark-haired man was gone, likely fallen.  Gren didn’t know healing magic.  He was a giant of a man, but couldn’t do much when the balcony was three stories up.  He looked up to the roof tops.  If he could get up there he may be able to lower a rope to help support the balcony.  The bodyguards will likely pull the survivors back in before I ever get up there.  That’s what they are getting paid for anyways, he told himself.  Gren was being bumped and shoved.  It was starting to get annoying.  ”MOVE!” he bellowed.  He moved through the crowd towards the front of the building where the old man would have fallen.  “If you can’t heal the man get out of the way!  I said get back!” he roared, shoving those too slow to get the point.

Dale usually travels with a performing group of minstrels or bards, but he got thrown out of his most recent group for starting a bar fight... again.  Maybe he'll have better luck in Theranin.

Dale only half-listens to the proceedings but starts when the balcony explodes and the crowd fully animates.  Dale tucks his arms in, trying to keep from getting one broken as some idiot surges past him.  He pushes in the opposite direction of the crowd, trying to get to the collapsed balcony.  Gods, I hope the old man's still alive and that there's a reward for saving him.  This feels like an assassination, too.  I better not get blown up doing this.

I'm with you on that one, James agrees.

"Okay, out of the way," Dale yells, for all the good it does.  He pushes his way to the far right section of destroyed masonry and looks around.

Dalinar Reynolds rolled 21 using 1d20+2. Perception on masonry.

Nori slipped into the crowd but it wasnt long before his appearance and smell created a small amount of breathing room all around him. If any attempted to step into his newly acquired personal space, they were met with a glare that instantly caused them to move in the opposite direction. Nori preferred it that way.

The grizzled barbarian was not in the greatest of moods, his wet armor chilled him to the bone even though he refused to show signs of discomfort. He wanted nothing more than a quiet corner to sit by and drink, but the blasted crowds were everywhere and his height made it a problem to see in which direction he was going. Nori felt it best to move towards a wall and wait for his frustration to subside as he was afraid of what he would do if he ran into another dead end. At least here, he could avoid most of the wind and eat the sweet roll he had pocketed.

It wasn't until then that he realized the reason for the crowd, opposite him high above, the politicians were speaking about running a city. The thought made Nori scoff, half those men were no older then he and Nori was still fairly young for dwarven years. He doubted any of those men knew anything about running a proper city.For things of that nature, one had to be at least a century before you could even begin wanting to run something properly.

When the balcony collapsed, instead of a horrified gasp that resembled the rest of the crowd, a harsh cackle erupted from beneath his beard. The pieces of sweet roll and spit clung to his beard. It wasn't that he was laughing at the fallen man, but more so at the shoddy workmanship of the balcony. Had that been dwarf built, it would have supported at least fifty men with no issues.

Ooc: Don't think I get a perception check as I'm not looking for specific faults, just crediting it to poor craftsmenship. Unless there was an obvious cut or things of that nature, he wouldn't have cared.

Vivo was not the sort to waste an opportunity, and began to push his way through the crowd.  Cities, while crowded with close-minded fools, were terribly exciting.  The witch had never seen a person survive a collapsing building, as those were rare in the more rural places he found himself.  On the other hand, he'd never seen a man killed in a collapse either.
The crowd proved to be an obstacle, and while most gave the half-orc a wide berth under normal circumstances, they were pressing about on all sides at present.  Vivo quickly decided on a new tactic.

"I'm a healer.  Please move, as I said, I'm a healer.  Get out of...  I SAID MOVE!"

Vivo rolled 25 using 1d20+8. Intimidate.

  It had been awhile since Taron had been around so many. He wasn't sure if it would be something he'd ever get use to. It amused and intrigued him in a way. He half smiled when a couple young ones came running past him, almost falling over themselves trying to avoid the growing crowd. That crowd seemed to be real interested in what was going on at the balcony of a grand looking building. This was one of those things that could be intriguing, so he heads that way.

  Taron got as close as he could to the building so he could hear the going ons of the peolpe in Theranin. He was standing to the right of the building when the balcony gave way, sending one of the men to the ground. There were a few people in front of him and his view was blocked, not being able to tell if the man was alive, the young Monk moves to help. One thing his father taught him before he left was to  tend small wounds. He'd never be a healer but he may be able to help.

  As he was pushing his way thru the couple rows of people in front of him, he heard a voice behind him claiming to be a healer. Taron turned to get out of the way, he raised his arms out in an attempt to hold the crowd and make room for the healer. The Monk then stepped in line behind the man of obvious orc heritage, he could still possibly be of some help.

Tempus cursed under his breath as he instantly sprang into action, leaping from where he stood guard in the alley a stones throw from the balcony. "Curse the worthless Gods and whatever Heavens and Hells they came from!" I suppose that'll cost me a quarter of my guardsman's bounty and I had nothing to do with it! I knew this wasn't my kind of job!

Tempus assumed the man who'd fallen from the balcony had probably met his end. A three story fall would be the death of most and the man was old. But if he had somehow survived the damn crowd was liable to trample him to death and that Tempus couldn't allow while he was on payroll. Close as he was to where the man had fallen Tempus still had to contend with the crowd to get to his side. Not wanting to cause unneeded bloodshed he ignored his sword and drew the bullwhip that was always coiled over his left shoulder and cracked it as loudly into the air in front of him as he could to try to part the throng!

Travel by boat didn't sit well with Erasmus, and he found once again in his thoughts the despair of responsibility when the flesh was weak.  Aside from speedy travel, the only favor the voyage did for him was have him already in his warmer robe; the openings of which he clutched closed in this horrible weather.  Coming upon the scene, he observes the settling cloud of dust and races toward it, assuming that this is the cause for alarm.  The cries he heard were the sort that accompanied injury, or promised it.  Even facing such a crowd, Gren's large form was easily picked out, and the wake in the crowd he left behind him was too convenient not to exploit.  Whispering a prayer to Sarenrae for her obvious intercession--for why else would such a huge man be present in such a moment--he moved to follow the half-ogre to the victim Gren had just described.

The crowd in a panic, pushing through to the base of the building proves to be more of a challenge than it seems. With two commands to move, their wits already a bit frayed, groups of people scream at the two monstrous men striding towards them and make haste to get out of their way. Tempus's shouts and bullwhip seem to get drowned out in tall the commotion, not causing the effect he had hoped for. Luckily, he is able to slip through some people and get into the wake of the half-ogre, allowing him to make it forward. Erasmus, Dalinar, and Taron also find this to be a valuable strategy and follow suit.

As Nori stands there in the crowd, trying not to get trampled and maintain his indifference, he looks up to see a giant of a man striding towards him quickly, seemingly unaware of his presence. Diving out of the way at the last second, losing the remainder of his sweet roll to the trampling feet of the panicked crowd, he lets out a growl, regains his feet, and follows the half-ogre to express his... dissatisfaction.

As the various members make it to the scene of the accident, it is a gruesome sight indeed. A handful of unlucky bystanders and the announcer seem to have been trapped under debris from the falling balcony, some of them unmoving, others wailing in obvious pain. The old politician, however, is nowhere to be seen at first glimpse. Up above, the three surviving politicians are scrambling to get to the door to the interior of the building still, climbing up the railing to the safer side of the balcony to the best of heir ability. Other bodyguards besides Tempus come running up to the scene as well as city guards, attempting to move the debris to help those buried underneath. One in particular in a snow white tunic covering his chain mail and a white plumed helmet begins barking orders at the soldiers, giving them different duties to help those involved in the accident.

Pleased with himself at having slipped so cleverly through the crowd, Erasmus yanks on the leather thong affixing his holy symbol, pulling it out of his robe so that it's on display.  His credentials in sight, he slips past the half-orge and approaches the man in the white plumed helmet.  "I am a priest of Sarenrae and a physician." he says, keeping his voice steady.  "Direct me to the injured."

Dale mentally nudges James to look at the severed support beam.  "See, told you assassination," Dale says.

Don't say 'assassination' out loud next to the city guard, James grumbles.

Good call.  Dale flashes one such guard his best I-am-so-not-suspicious smile and helps him lift a crumbled brick off a woman.  He keeps his eyes peeled for the old man.

When the brick doesn't budge, Dale sticks both pinkies in his mouth and whistles at the half-ogre nearby.  "Hey," Dale waves at him, "come give us a hand."

Dalinar Reynolds rolled 5 using 1d20+3. general strength to lift brick.

Gren finally made it to the front, but paused once he got there.  What was he doing?  He took a moment to decipher his own motivations.  It was to make a good impression.  His dock job was nearing its end.  If he could make an impression on the City Watch or with one of the politicians, maybe they would hire him.

Over the muttering and screams of the crowd he thought he heard someone proclaiming to be a healer.  He looked around and saw a large man making his way through the crowd.  He also noticed a few people sneaking around him having followed in the wake he left.  His face twisted into a look of confusion.

As Vivo finally made it through the crowd Gren stepped in front of him.  He placed a giant hand on the man's chest to hold him back.  "Everyone just needs to keep back.  Let the Watch and the Priests do their business.  These bodies won't be looted today," he said making it obvious that he thought the Half-Orc to be little more than a rogue.  Gren had always tried to remind himself to not judge people by their race or appearance.  He was a Half-Ogre and was often on the receiving end of such intollerance.  Unfortunately, Gren grew up in a war-like familial tribe of Ogres; and for as long as he could remember they had been at war with a neighboring tribe of Half-Orcs.  The hatred was bred into him.

Hearing Erasmus declare himself a physician, the guard turns and ushers him to his side, "Well at least we have some luck in this blasted affair. We're setting up an area for the wounded. My guards will bring them to you and you do what you can to ease their suffering. DAVIDOVICH! HELP THAT LANKY KID WITH THAT BLOCK!" he yells out as he leaves Erasmus to await the wounded. A guard perks up at hearing his name called and runs over to assist Dalinar.

Nori's mood just kept going from bad to worse. He had followed the half ogre till he stopped, his hands balled up into fists. When he drew closer and noticed s half orc was nearby, well that was the last straw. He didn't care if the watch was around or not, nor that the didn't stood easily twice as high as him. With a mighty shove into the back of the ogres buttocks, Nori made his presence known after being ignored so long.

"Oi! Wha's yor problem. Cant ya see where ya goin'?", He was a bit more upset at almost being trampled without being seen than he was about the sweet roll.

OOC: Not gonna do a str test unless you need it gm. The shove was mostly just for show. Although, I was hoping to push him into the half orc.

Gren stumbled a step forward, which of course caused him to push the orc back a little further as well.  What trick is this? he wondered as he tried to figure out how the Half-Orc managed to push him from behind.  He looked behind him as he heard someone bark something out.  It was then he noticed the ugly looking Dwarf.

"Sorry, I don't have eyes in my butt.  Who the dreg are you?"

As if a thought suddenly struck him, he patted his money pouch tethered to the side of his belt.  It was still there.  The rude little runt didn't swipe it.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:45, Tue 27 Mar 2012.

In reply to Gren Boarshead (msg #15):

 Nori growled a response, he was not sure who or what a dreg was, but he didnt like the sound of it. Still, the ogre did ask who he was and Nori's dwarven pride would not allow him to go further unnoticed, "Da names Nori from me clan Hammerfist, and ya almost ran me ovah when ya was rushin like a mad bull. Nex' time I'll cutcha leg out from unda ya, jus' ta pop ya in da face."

Tempus pulled up short when the old man who had fallen from the balcony wasn't laying in a pile of rubble where he should have been. Scurvy Gods are toying with me again, blast their hides! Did the old git just disappear in mid-air? Tempus could see the pile of coins he was to receive in payment for his guard duties dwindling more and more in his mind and as each coin vanished his ire grew. He payed no attention to the three humanoids of varying sizes as he pushed his way between them. He cared not be they dwarf, half-orc, half-ogre, or half-friggin-unicorn! All he cared about was finding the old man and guarding his body if need be to insure he got paid!

Tempus' gaze scanned the ground and the surrounding area for any signs of the old man, preparing to do whatever was necessary to get to him. "I'm sticking to hunting bounty after this job!" Tempus muttered, not caring who heard. "This is no way for a man to earn a meal!"


<Tempus rolled 19 using 1d20+3 ((16)) for STR roll if needed to push thru players>

<Tempus rolled 18 using 1d20+5 ((13)) for perception search for signs of the old man>

Gren bent over a little, "Well ain't you cute?  I can tell that you can't be movin' as fast as most folks with such short and stubby legs; but to b'fair I did yell 'move' and had ya trimmed the hair out of yer ears you could'a had a head start."

Yep, the loss of his strawberries and having to deal with this crowd had put Gren in a foul mood.

Dale bristled at being called 'scrawny' but then realized that a half-ogre, half-orc, and a dwarf were arguing only a few yards away.  Given his current company, the description was probably apt.  Pushing James' laughter to the back of his mind, Dale helped Davidovich carry one of the wounded to where they were being gathered.

The Dwarf didn't phase Gren, not with the childhood Gren had.  He did catch a look of the City Watch moving around over Nori's shoulder and had to remind himself why he was still here.  Gren chuckled.  "So how do you want this to go down Nori of Clan Hammerfist?  You want to duke it out in the streets or do you want me to buy you a stout tonight down at the Inn of the Salty Seawife?"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 00:41, Wed 28 Mar 2012.

Nori was ready to sock the giant half orge with one if his oversized fists, but the mention of ale stopped him dead in his tracks. A quick thought process occured in his head. Fight...flee city watch our end up in jail...no ale. Wait...finish here...drink ale....maybe have a chance to punch ogre later with less people around.

"Best be makin it two stouts. One ta drink and one ta wash da taste out me mouth. Horrible what be passin for drink round here."

Ooc: You sir, are a genius.

By now the crowd has mostly dispersed, disappearing into buildings nearby or rushing down streets to get away from any potential lingering danger they might be subject to. The only ones left in the town square are the characters and the city guard at this point. As a group of guardsmen and Tempus lift a particularly heavy beam and to his dismay, find the corpse of Selmund Wulfa crushed underneath. A few of the guardsmen swear and share his feelings about their future employment status and payment. One of them finally has the good sense to call the captain over.

Seeing the corpse of the politicians, a steady stream of obscenities flows forth from the captain's mouth, colorful as a rainbow spawned from hell, "Bloody fuckin hells, what god did I piss off to deserve this... This is gonna catch me hell... ALRIGHT MEN LISTEN UP! YOU LOT, YOU TOO!" he yells motioning to the nearby group, "You are going to find me whoever or whatever is responsible for this and you are going to do it quickly and discreetly! I don't care how you do it or who you have to interrogate to get it done but by the gods it WILL get done! Consider yourselves under my employment and the reward is a damn heavy bag of gold. NOW HOP!"

Vivo approaches the shouting man, stopping a close but respectable distance away.  "If you think that is the best use of our talents.  Where, then, do we start?  Did you see where the attackers went?  Have you a scrap of cloth for the hounds?  The city is no small place."

  Taron looks at the others assembled here and then at the leader of the guards. He tilts his head and looks at the man, sizing him up. Who is he to just assume that his affairs are also Tarons, or any of these mens. Some standing there may know the Captain, but the young Monk has never let eyes on him before, and he doesn't like being 'asked' what to do in so strong a tone. Nope doesn't like it at all.

  Then he remembers the words of his mentor Brother of the Sacred Mountain. "We can not always know what lies in store for us, nor why things are layed in our path. But there are always two choices, the first is easy, walk away and take another path. Or, ye can stay on the one you face and see why it is there."

  That memory of Brother Cayson looking down at him as a lad, has stuck with him many years now. It is most likely the reason he left the Monastery at such an age. So he reckons the path the Captain has offers is one he cannot pass on. Without saying a word he steps forward, standing to the left of the big man of Orc blood, and waits to hear what more the Captain haas to say, if anything.

To Vivo's question the captain of the guards hesitates for a moment, obviously not having thought it completely through, "Well you could...what about the..." Obviously flustered he takes a moment of silence before seeming to come to a conclusion, "Poor ol' Wulfa kept promising to deal with the thieves guild if he was elected to the city council. Maybe you should start there. See if ya can't pound some information out of those damned miscreants. I'd give you an escort to their front door but, frankly, if we knew exactly where it was, we'da knocked down their blasted door and arrested every single one of em years ago. All we know is that it's somewhere under the city, likely the sewers. Gooda place to start as any I suppose. There's an entrance to the sewers down by the docks. Any of the sailors there can point ya to it."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:07, Wed 28 Mar 2012.

Dale hates to be bossed around and almost yells his annoyance back at the guard captain, but stops at the mention of a gold reward.  Now that's something he can work with.  Dale looks around at his new merry band of brigands.  This is going to be interesting.

"Sewers it is, then.  Any particular part of town we should start?"  To himself, he thinks, I hate sewers.

Only because you can't wear leather and silk in them without ruining your wardrobe, James comments.  Dale doesn't deny it.

Speaking to the group around him, Dale says, "Any of you from around here and could lead us to the entrance?"

Tempus looked up from where he stood over the dead old man. A Bounty? Did he just offer a bounty? FINALLY! A job I can sink my teeth into! A slow smile spread across Tempus' face. It faltered slightly when the captain of the guard indicated the Thieves Guild may be involved. The guild had connections in every major city and could be a terrible enemy if the captain were wrong. Not that Tempus was adverse to hunting thieves. A bounty was a bounty after all and thieves had a way of earning them. And the fact was, as far as the guild was concerned a thief who got caught wasn't a very good thief anyway. But the captain was implicating the guild itself and that was a different story.

Especially since there were other obvious suspects.

"And what of the man's opponents in this election? They have no motives for wanting him eliminated? Wulfa was the favorite to win the election after all. Or so I'd heard from the other bodyguards hired for this event.

Bah. In any case, I'm not cut out for this bodyguard business and since the hunt is what I do best I'll take you up on your little job here. And I don't mind working with these others if they've a mind to get involved but the bounty better be sufficient for all, Captain. My skills don't come cheaply.

So what say the rest of you? Shall we start at the docks and investigate the other candidates later if need be? Or should we maybe start at the balcony itself? Any of you have any experience at building? Would you know what to look for if the balcony was sabotaged? Could be we would be tramping through the sewers for nothing if this were just an accident and sewers aren't my idea of a fun place to take an afternoon stroll.

You there. Dwarf. Your people are known as architects. Can you be of any use here?"

Erasmus deals with any of the injured brought his way, trying to triage them for needs, and arranging for them to be placed in a group so that he could more easily tend to them.  When Selmund Wulfa is unburied, he hurries over to examine the body, saying a small prayer as he goes that the man might not be beyond help just yet.

Gren nodded.  "The ale at the Salty Seawife is real pig swill, I may actually have to buy you three," he offerred the Dwarf.

As Gren listened to the captain of the guard he was about to point out the obvious killer.  The large heavy beam that was once part of the balcony.  Everyone else must have been seeing something he didn't.  Gren headed over to get a closer look at the remains.  "Cigam Tceted," he chanted as he made small circles with his thumb and forefinger and waved them before his face.  If there was lingering magic nearby he would sense it.

"I think I know what entrance he's talking about," he replied to the human with the...was that a magic sword? Interesting.

"I don't suppose the old dead guy has any threatening letters on his person?" he asked the priest who was hovering over his body.

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Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
If you are confused as to what spells I cast just read them backwards.

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In reply to Tempus Edwyn (msg #27):

Nori nodded at Gren's words about buying him three drinks. The thought about ale and sitting in that quiet corner was beginning to sound real good on him. Unfortunately he may have to share his time with the giant half-ogre but at least he'd get to punch him for that small insult form earlier and blame it on the booze. Not like three drinks would be enough to get him dru-



Being the only dwarf in the area, Nori looked towards the other man, the words of the captain or what was going on were completely ignored. He looked about at the others and took a few seconds to realize what was going on.

"Dwarves be da greatest buildas, no denying dat. Obvious wha happened wit da balcony der. Shoddy human buildin couldnt handle da weight. All dis was jus' bad luck." He spit after the word luck to add to his superstition.

In reality, Nori had not really bother checking anything and didn't really feel like it, he wanted a drink and didnt want to be combing through sewers in search of mere thieves. Human politics did nothing to interest him.

"The support beam was severed," Dale points out.  "This was obviously sabatoge.  So how about this: beat up bad guys, get gold, buy beer.  Yes?"

"Sounds good to me, but I work the docks.  The smell on a normal day is bad.  Trudging through the sewers..." He finished with a simple shake of his head.  Gren called over to the watchman named, Davidovich.  "You!" Having gotten his attention he walked over so only he could hear his next question.  "Can you tell me where this old guy lived?"

Gren didn't know if he was smart or not compared to others.  He did know he often thought differently though.  If the balcony collapse wasn't an accident then it was either an assassin or a member of the theives guild.  If it was an assassin, someone with money hired him...most likely one of the other politicians.  Sewer searching wasn't going to do any good in that case.  If the Captain of the Guard was right and it was a theif; well, Gren never knew a theif who would off their prey then not take their stuff.  He had decided.  Rather than trudge through the sewers he was going to watch the Wulfa residence and see if the vultures came.  If he was right the bag of gold would be all his.  If not, well...after his brain had a rest hopefully it would come up with a Plan B.

There go my dinner plans.

All the while the interactions are going on between the captain and the group, Erasmus continues to attend to the injured, stopping bleeding and setting bones where he can. He is assisted by Vivo who also shows a knack for the healing arts. Upon having Wulfa brought to him, Erasmus checks to make sure the old man isn't beyond help yet. Unfortunately, it seems that his soul has already passed into the afterlife. Hearing Tempus's comment about threatening letters on the poltican's person, he respectfully searches the mans pockets but looks up to give the bounty hunter a solemn shake of his head. Placing a sheet over the dead man's head, he returns to those who can still benefit from his healing skills. A soft yellow glow emanates from the cleric as he says a prayer and the light flows into the injured, closing wounds and mending broken bones.

Meanwhile in the discussion with the captain of the guard, the man seems a bit annoyed at Tempus's question about the pay, "Yes, yes all you who lend aid will receive a fair share dammit. And yes, I suppose the other candidates have their own political reason for wanting Wulfa dead but in my experience, matter such as that are usually dealt with in a quiet way, poison or a dagger in the back in some alley, not in a brazen display such as this. But damn if I know, I'm a captain after all, not some grubby old man with a white wig. I'm taking my men to the east part of town. If you find anything or anyone, report to me at the barracks in the Gate District." With that, the captain and his guards begin to walk off except for Davidovich who seems to be looking between his captain and the half-ogre, unsure who would give him the bigger wallop for not listening to first. Seems he takes size over fury though as he points northward, "Mos' o' em' political folk live up near the pl..pl..plaza 'n the Ruvar District. Don' know which house 'e lived 'n though. S'rry mate!" he cries out as he takes off at a jog after his squad.

Nori groaned as Gren moved aside to ask one of the men a question, "Don tell me yor atchaly gonna get invloved in dis? Dis be human affairs, let dem deal wit it." He moved a few steps over to get closer to Dale and shook his head, "Is not as easy as dat, boy. Da water be freezing and half of ya would be dead if ya fell in. Besides, why risk ya neck for someone ya dont know?"

Tempus slowly shook his head, still with the small smile on his lips. "I risk my neck for the gold, Dwarf. Not these people's politics. I could care less for their politics or anyone else's fer that matter. The Captain is paying and that's good enough for me. Even bad ale doesn't come cheaply now does it?"

Tempus moved to look at the pillar the dandy, or so he thought of the well dressed man who had pointed it out, to see that it had indeed been severed. "Beat up bad guys, get gold, buy beer. Brother you just wrote my life story. The name is Tempus Edwyn, by the way." Tempus said nodding to all assembled. "What the Captain said about the other politicians makes some sense. Subterfuge is usually more a politicians style than a public display like this, where-as if the Thieves Guild is involved this sends a clear message not to mess in their business as the dead man seemed intent on doing.

Since the Captain is paying, it only makes sense to check his theory first, as unpleasant as strolling through the sewers may sound. Besides, thieves hate sewers as much as we so I doubt their secret entrance is full of sewage very far in. We should not discount the politicians just yet, just set them back a step in priority. The Captain's theory of them not putting on such a public display discounts the fact that said display gives them the perfect alibi. After-all it would appear they had been in danger as well.

I would hope we investigate this as a group. I should hate to turn this into a competition for the bounty. I don't mind sharing the bounty, but I'll look unkindly on anyone trying to beat me out of it."

The smile never left Tempus' lips, but was there a threat inferred in his final words?

"Oh no, he'll look unkindly upon me.  Priest quick!  Heal my hurt feelings," Gren bellowed with a grin.  "Well now... May those interested meet me at the Salty Seawife in the next hour with your weapons and gear of choice.  As promised I'll show you where a sewer entrance is.  And Nori, may my deal with you be settled.

Gren had yet to make up his mind on how he wished to proceed.  If the Guild was involved, going in alone would likely get him killed.  Let's see who has the guts to show, and what gear they bring.  A quick meet and greet will tell me if they are worth the risk.

Gren thought if he could earn a big enough reward he may be able to get through the winter season without having to work.  Sure he'd keep his job at the Inn, because that was where he laid his head and filled his belly.  He even considered moving away from the city, but for that he would need a small fortune to do so without worry.

He left the group not bothering to wait for replies or arguements.  He was going to get that gold with or without them.  It was time to dust off the backpack and polish his javelins.

Nori looked at the others for a moment and then moved on to follow Gren, "Oi, slow it down ya hunkering slab of flesh. Dont think for a second I be lettin ya out me sight. This place betta have sumting good ta drink." He continued on behind the half ogre, rambling about ale and other needless things. He didn't even care if the giant man was even listening to him.

Dale follows after the dwarf but points at Tempus.  "I like you.  I think we're going to get along great."

At the Salty Seawife, Dale rents a room and uses the time to change before rejoining his new crew.

The half-orc watches the group in mild amusement, whispering to the fox on his shoulders as he follows the group heading toward the Salty Seawife.  Vivo keeps a sharp eye on Erasmus, interest in the man's profession clear on his face after the human's performance at the collapse.

Tempus looked to the two who remained, the cleric and the young man who hadn't spoken a word. What was he? A monk? Wonder if he's taken a vow of silence? That would be refreshing knowing I have to trample through the sewers with a grumbling dwarf,a half-literate ogre, and an orc. Oh well. At least the dandy may be good for some conversation. As long as the fop doesn't start talking about the latest fashions, that is.

"You notice they all declined to introduce themselves?" Tempus mused out loud. "I wonder if they have something to hide. Like maybe a bounty on their heads?" Tempus' smile turned genuine at the thought. He'd have to remind himself to check the posters in the local constables office after this affair was complete.

"Oh well. As I said, the name is Tempus. Do either of you plan on joining them? I only have to collect my bow and pack from where I have them stashed over in the alley there and I can accompany you. An ale or two might make the outlook of tramping through the sewers a bit brighter."

It was hard not to be disappointed when he couldn't save someone.  None of the half dozen or so others he had managed to help lacked values, but when you set yourself to saving lives, it was the ones that slipped past you that seemed to have the most impact.  The living cared for, Erasmus considered the shrouded old man and silently said a prayer for him.  He didn't know what gods the man had worshiped, but Sarenrae had no real enemies and so he didn't believe that there would be any spiritual retribution for praying over a heathen, but he was pragmatic enough not to risk offending the rich and powerful, for their riches held a capacity to enact great wickedness, and Erasmus had duties.

The others that the guard captain had been speaking to when he said things of earning gold, things that the other were not repeating, interested him.  Gold was a useful tool, having the power to advance one's goals where reason, learning, and prayer could not.  He smiles at the large man's sense of humor, and resolved to meet with them at the appointed time and place.  He took a few steps closer to the orcman and Tempus, trying not to be conscious of the fact he was being stared at.

"I am Erasmus, a wandering priest of Sarenrae." he replies, introducing himself.  "My holy orders require I spend time in the world experiencing creation.  I suppose investigating sewers in the company of potential criminals would be as good a place to start as any, especially if drinking might be involved." he continues with a peaceful smile, trying politely not to notice Vivo's gaze.  "I only just arrived in this town, my things are over there." he points behind him.  "So I need to get a room, I might as well hear what is said while I'm there and then decide if my presence would be beneficial." which he knew it would be.  He heard some of the language Tempus had been using earlier, and those fond of swinging swords about always appreciated the company of men such as himself.   "I'll wait for you to get your things and then you can show me where this Salty Seawife is." he finishes, going to gather his things together once the conversation was over.

Taron nods his head at the idea of heading to the Salty Seawife and as soon as Tempus and Erasmus collect their belongings, they set off in the direction of the tavern.

As the group with Gren makes their way to the Salty Seawife they find a small white washed 2 story building close enough to the water to feel the salty breeze and get a little bit of a whiff of the fish that are being gutted down at the pier. The sign out front depicts a larger woman with crossed arms holding a rolling pin and a large fish. A woman Gren identifies as Mistress Urnda greets you with a warm welcome of a woman familiar with the security that comes with having a half-ogre as a bouncer. After a moment of looking at the stout woman, the realization that she looks eerily similar to the carving on the sign outside sets in.

"Gren dear, welcome back. It's that time of year again, I suppose we'll be seeing a lot mo-" she stops mid sentence as she sees the gaggle of odd looking company he's brought in with him, a half clothed award, a half orc, and a well dressed man who keeps looking at his sword. "Who're your friends dear?" she says in what seems like a motherly voice though her eyes betray suspicion born of keeping watch over a tavern where brawls are about as common as the sun rising. "Would you like me to give you the back room?" She asks innocently. As Mistress Urna talks, Tempus, Erasmus, and Taron walk through the door behind the group.

Gren ducked under the doorway as he entered.  he was forced to walk with a slight hunch to keep from banging his head on the beams and hanging lanterns.  He made his was to the bar, flasing the halfling woman passing out drinks, named Kit Jannis, a polite smile.

"Tiss a little early to be callin' 'em friends.  A business opportunity has presented itself.  I figured it be ok if we gathered here before setting out.  I may not be able to cover my shift tonight, but a few of these fellas may need a room laters."  Mistress Urna was fair so long as she was making money and people behaved themselves.

Gren looked behind him as the Dwarf entered.  "And yeah, the backroom would probably be best."  He was more concerned with the Dwarf's possible behavior than with any one leaking word to the theive's guild.  In fact, the later had yet to even cross his mind.  "I promised ale.  An' let me get two loafs and two hunks of goat cheese?  I may not have much of an appetite later."  He had yet to decide if he was going into the sewers or not.  He fished around inside the pouch tethered to his belt and pulled out two gold coins.

As drinks were poured into worn wooden mugs Gren helped carry them into the back.  Doing so would show the others where he planned to gather and make introductions.  He tore off an end of bread and slathered a thick spread of cheese on it using a wooden spatula.  He stood in the doorway to the backroom to see who else if anyone would show.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:25, Fri 30 Mar 2012.

Once Dale gets his room and his things situated, he rejoins Gren and the group in the back room.  He turns down an offer of a drink, choosing to celebrate after the job is done.

"I'm Dale Reynolds, by the way.  Don't know if I mentioned."  Addressing Gren, he says, "You mentioned watching the old man's house.  Probably a good idea.  We aren't all needed to do that, though.  If a few of us watch the house and the rest try to find the Thieves' Guild, we should be covered.  I don't mind taking the sewers."

Yeah, since when? James shoots out.

"No point in letting a lead go to waste, after all."  Or the looter's loot.

There it is.

Vivo takes a seat and moves Etulo from his shoulders to the floor.  "I'm not going to lie, I never thought I'd rather slog through a human sewer than, well, anything, but I suppose that's a mystery for another day.  Besides, I'd rather not miss out on the fun."  The half-orc pauses for a moment, then continues.  "Ah, my name is Vivo, and my friend is Etulo.  Good to meet you."

Ten mugs of ale sat in the middle of the table along with some bread and cheese.  He wasn't sure who all would be coming, and figured extras wouldn't be a problem between him and the Dwarf.

Who invited the Half-Orc? he wondered.  He couldn't hide his slight look of contempt as Vivo introduced himself.  And what's with the damned fox?  Where are you from anyways?  You don't look like you're from around here."  He doesn't look like member of the Bloodhand tribe either, but still...

"So yeah anyways.  I was thinking about hunting down the old man's house and see if any theives came to pilfer his belongings.  If not, I'm sure I could find a sewer entrance up there if I grew bored enough.  Frankly, I'm not too keen on going into the sewers m'self.  Assuming we were even able to find anything, the tunnels are surely trapped to keep people from poking around."

He emptied one of the mugs in one breath.  He wiped his mouth and beard with the back of one of his sleeves.  "Ah yeah, the name's Gren Boarshead.  Me mum said I have the blood of giants running through my veins, which his where I get m'size and magic."  As he introduced himself he gave the Half-Orc a look to see if the Boarshead name registered with him.  He then looked at all the others.  The mere mention of magic made some people parnoid and fearful.

Nori had entered behind Gren and did his best to give a smile to the female when they were introduced. He didn't feel very comfortable being called a friend of the ogre, but he wasn't in the mood to explain he was only here to get his fill on drinks. He took a seat to himself and remained silent until the drinks and food were offered. With a greedy swipe, Nori took a loaf of bread for himself and two mugs of ale, Dale had made it pretty clear he wouldn't be drinking any.

He threw back one of the mugs and drank his fill of ale, all the commotion and talk about adventuring made him very thirsty. Gren was right however, the taste was worse than he expected but when it was free, he couldn't complain. With a satisfying belch he set the empty container down and tore off a half of the loaf of bread. He hadn't realized just how hungry he was until he began to eat, his stomach already wishing for the other half.

The others began to speak and introduce themselves so he figured he may as well. With a piece of the uneaten bread in his hand he eyed the others uneasily, "Me name is Nori Hammerfist and travel the land lookin for worthy fights to claim me legend."

Tempus sipped from one of the mugs of ale. Eh? I've had worse. He had no interest in the bread, especially after watching the dwarf make a pig of himself. Tempus felt he'd already made introductions enough so he declined to do so again. If they had been to rude earlier to take notice that was their problem. He found it ironic the half-orc was one of the few civil enough to introduce himself properly.

"So you want to watch the old man's house? So be it. I wasn't aware you were a part of the local constabulary but I am new to town. I would think finding his killer would be more important than keeping watch for looters though. But I imagine there may be some small reward for looters as well. A coin here or there is better'n none but I have my sights set on the real purse. The killer or killers aren't likely to show up at the old man's house to kill him again so I guess I'll take the hunt where the Captain suggested. I don't fear traps in the sewers. Traps are my life's work after-all. Not to mention I'm sure there's much more to loot from the denizens of the sewers than there is from those who have sunk so low as to loot from the dead."

Tempus was beginning to wonder if maybe he shouldn't set off alone. There didn't seem to be a lot of experience in tracking men in this group other than himself. The big man at least actually seemed intent on not going after the bounty which was fine with Tempus. Then again, the dwarf at least could come in very handy in the tunnels. He looked to the dwarf and spoke to him in his native tongue.

[Language unknown: "Ar derareive oer, Ivngse Ectinedayforess? Etri tic toalioetpa n washastho acfo anynd ngeen m lasabe ncehiswil il prss premo? Meneenate ulndiv ore outessard ee oulconame alofhi? P ratithhas ekprha somrestio ri alar Wilratrom Onetheman ineanteen ofet pa ai riwhtoet ncelinnceave ol teno rutca. Ek be teompr ilpro of e eklaai."]

OOC: I find it easier to speak other languages in brackets then doing private lines. I hope that's ok.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:23, Sat 31 Mar 2012.

Erasmus secures lodging for himself, leaning on his status as a holy man if necessary to secure a private room if one is available, so that he can stow away his holy vestments and such things without concern of anyone else taking them by accident.  Unencumbered by his possessions, he makes his way to the back room the Gren had secured.

"Is this where anyone interested in pursuing the matter the guard announced earlier is meeting?" he asks tentatively, sticking his head into the room.  He already knew the answer, but a humble demeanor was an asset when one of his calling dealt with rougher types.  It was best to be what they expected at first.  People were more willing to tolerate eccentricity once you've pulled their head out of their ribcage a few times.  "I thought perhaps it would be safer for everyone involved if a physician attended the expedition." he continues, as he steps into the room, taking a seat toward the center of one side of the table.  It was a trick he learned in seminary, placing himself such that he could catch conversation on either end of the table, and thus have more opportunity to chime in.

Gren flashed Tempus a scowl.  He hated when people spoke in languages he didn't understand.  The man was facing the Dwarf so he guessed it was probably Dwarven.  He's probably planning on scoring that reward all for himself.

"The captain merely suggested we bust a few Guild heads to see if they know anything about the incident, and that the sewers may be a place to look.  I'm hoping to get them to come to me, not the other way around.  I'm curious as to what leads the Captain and his men are following.  He probably has a theif in the hold to question.  A sly toothy grin came to Gren as he remembered an incident when his tribe ambushed some Half-Orcs of the Bloodhand.  They had led the group between two small hills, pretending to be at the disadvantage.  Then other members of the Boarshead Tribe rolled logs covered in flaming pitch down on them.  Yep, Gren preferred to be the ambusher, not the ambushie.

"I think I'll try my method before I try yours human.  All the better to keep drit off of my boots."

Gren reached for another piece of bread and slathered it in more goat cheese.  One thick thumbnail dug anxiously at a small split in the rim of his mug.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:48, Fri 30 Mar 2012.

Vivo shivers at the half-ogre's mention of the name Boarshead.  A dark name from a darker time, he muses.

"I'm not.  I've been around, true, but this is my first time in the city."
Seeing everyone else helping themselves to the ale, the half-orc does likewise.

  Taron sits in his chair sipping his ale slowly listening to each person make their introduction and give their two cents on what they believed was the best course of action to earn their reward. He didn't mind waiting for everyone else to be done with their turn as he had always been taught that patience was the virtue at the core of being a monk. Through patience, one can see all possible roads of action and choose the most appropriate without regret.
  Swallowing his drink and clearing his throat, he waits for a moment to chime in, "Hello friends, I am Taron Bein, a monk trained in the ways of the sacred mountain from the Rat'zei monastery to the north. If I may add my take on the situation?" Without really waiting for verbal confirmation, he continues, "Both courses of action have merit and since splitting up can hurt our odds, would it be ill advised to first investigate the house in more of a timely manner then go down to the sewers if there are no leads for us to follow?" It seemed like an idea that everyone could get behind, after all, it took both plans into consideration. Taron hoped he wouldn't be branded indecisive but more of a compromiser.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:26, Sat 31 Mar 2012.

Well so much for the vow of silence, Tempus thought to himself when the monk finally spoke up. Poor sucker has probably taken a vow of chastity instead. By all the worthless Gods, I'd rather die. Bah. Tempus your outlook on life has changed to much since.... Tempus forced his mind away from that thought. Thinking of the past could only lead to no good.

Despite the poor quality of the ale Tempus suddenly tilted back his mug and drained it dry. He gave a healthy belch to relieve the gas that quickly built up in his gut from the swill and set the mug back on the table grabbing one of the extras without asking. He moved to a corner and leaned against the wall there. He saw no point in arguing against what he considered a waste of time in going to the old politicians home. If they were afraid of the tunnels under the city and wanted to investigate nice safe houses they'd be better suited searching the houses of the old man's rivals, but Tempus kept that thought to himself. He'd search those homes himself later if the Thieves Guild proved fruitless.

"Just let me know when you've all decided."

Nori remained silent for a while, the words of Tempus both intrigued and irked him. He always hated seeing another race speak his language so smoothly, especially when it was someone he knew nothing about. The human had a point however, not many would be brave enough to venture into the sewers in search of thieves on their own turf, and the thought about being rewarded for it had not escaped him as well.

Still, something nagged him about the man, perhaps the way he wove his silver tongue wove the words reminded him too much of those shifty elves. He would need to watch that one, closely.

He finished his bread and his emptied the contents of the second mug, it as true when he said he needed to wash the taste of the first cup out of his mouth. With another satisfied belch he eyed the others, "Ogre, yur debt is paid. Thank ye. Tell your mum twas fine ale she offered."

He stood and wiped some of the spittle from his beard with the back of his burly arm and looked at Tempus, "I agree with da monk, the lad speaks wisdom."

Once Vivo introduces himself, Dale reaches a hand out to Etulo, seeing if the fox will let him pet it.

We're not getting one! James says.

"I don't see why not," Dale says out loud.  At the looks of his companions, Dale attempts to cover himself.  "I don't see why... we need to wait.  I'm ready to go now." Dale stands and grabs the pack he's taking with him.  "I'm headed to that sewer entrance.  If anyone else wants their share of the gold, I recommend coming with."  Dale turns and heads for the door.

So smooth.

"How about I make this simple.  I'll go check on the old man's residence tonight.  The rest of you trudge through the sewers.  If nothing happens I'll come looking for you.  If you discover anything and have opportune time, we can always meet up here in the morning to share what we've learned."  He slammed his mug down on the table as if calling the meeting to order.  "Do all of you have torches? I have extras if need be."

Gren had purchased food and drink for the group.  Now he was offereing torches.  This seemed to be one generous Half-Orc.

"So let me grab my stuff and I'll show you guys where that entrance is."  Gren left the room for a few minutes and came back in wearing a backpack, 3 javelins made of wood, 3 made of iron, and a wooden club carved with the designs of a boar's head.  The torches he mentioned were likely in the backpack he carried.  "If you're all ready I'll show you where that entrance is."  He flicked a copper piece onto the table for the serving wench that would have to clean up after him.  He then started to head for the door.

  Taron finishes his ale and stands up moving towards the door and waits for the Half-ogre to return. " I'll take the sewer route over that of the politicians house. At best only looters are going to show. But I would assume the man's family or servants are already there and any thief worth his weight would be wise to stay away from there." Nodding in the direction of the outspoken tracker. " I agree with Tempus, if there are homes to be checked it should be with the other politicians, seems the one who fell had more support from the crowd. Any of the others could be suspects, and if they hired out the job, the theives guild seems to be a good place to start"

Hired out the job? Tempus had been thinking either or when it came to who may have killed the old politician, but the young monk was right. Collusion was a definite possibility. A good politician would certainly be capable of pointing out to the guild the advantages of eliminating his competition. He'd keep that under advisement. Tempus in no way considered himself intelligent enough to be a detective but he was in no way a fool either and detective work was indeed part of his job as a tracker and bounty hunter.

"Your aid in saving us time in finding somebody to point out a good entrance is appreciated big man, even if you have decided not to accompany us. Don't let possible traps discourage you though. I'm pretty good at my job. At least I think I am." Tempus said the last with a smile.

Tempus shouldered his pack and strung his bow over his back. The whip was coiled around his left shoulder as always.

"Shall we be off before that fool dandy gets to far ahead and sets off a trap before I can get to it?"

Nori moved towards the door as well. Now that he had a few drinks in him, the idea of rampaging against a group of thieves seemed like something fun to do to pass the time. His armor had dried somewhat and the ale did a fine job to keep him warm against the cold.

"Aye, best be off. I wan ta ge back before me thirst returns."

"It'll just be one less trap for the rest of us to worry about," Gren said.  It seemed in his speech that he tried to convince others that he was a tough hard-ass.  His actions, the offers of drink, supplies, and aid, on the other hand suggested the opposite.  Gren Boarshead was a contridiction in many areas.

Gren headed towards the dock, taking long confident strides.  Gren recalls that if you follow the widest street towards the docks that you eventually notice an obivious decline in the grade of the cobblestone path.  In the center of the street just before it branches and levels off there is a large metal grate.  This was likely the entrance that was being discussed.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Sun 01 Apr 2012.

While not the exact entrance to the sewers, Gren led the group in the right direction for as you look down through the grate, you can see down a ways where there is a sewage tunnel leading towards the water and back into town. Following the direction of the tunnel, the group comes upon the entrance to the sewers. Before the docks change from stone to wooden planks, there is a short drop off with water down below. About half way down there is a circular entrance where sewage seems to be spilling out into the water. There is a small metal ladder that leads down to the entrance though it is considerably rusted from having been so close to the ocean spray for so long.

A little ways off, dock workers who are currently out of a job relax, standing around in circles with a small fire in their midst laughing at some unheard, likely crude, joke while others lay about in the rigging of some of the ice-locked ships. They seem to notice you but look for no more than a second before they reoccupy themselves with more interesting things.

OOC: Time to make your final decisions where each of you is going.

Nori glanced down at the sewer entrance with a sneer. This was definitely not something he would enjoy, but he had made up his mind and was not about to back down. Besides, tunnels beneath the ground almost felt like home, except for the fact it reeked of human waste. "Bah, why do blasted thieves always pick da worst places ta hide. Damn rats.."

Dale nods in agreement with Nori.  "Yes, casinos and cathouses are much more interesting places to hide.  So..." Dale looks up at Tempus and gives him a hopeful smile, "trapbreakers first?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:08, Sun 01 Apr 2012.

Tempus answers Dale's smile with one of his own.

"What? I think we should talk the ogre into coming and he should go first. If that ladder holds him the rest of us are home free!" Tempus laughs as he swings his legs over the edge onto the ladder.

"Keep that cleric nearby. I doubt his God likes me any more'n the others but you never know."

As Tempus moved over the edge, Nori stepped up as close as he could, his dwarven feet solid against the ground. He didn't trust the ladder and decided to speak up, "Oi, lad. Mebbee ya wanna put a backup line in case dem steps give way?"

"Aye, the mighty Nori of Clan Hammerfist is afraid of ladders someone hold his hand."  Teasing one another seemed to be a 'thing' now; even though it was likely going to cost him a few more mugs of ale to smooth things over.

Gren considered wandering over and asking the dock workers if they've witness others coming and going through the sewer grate; but then figured not to bother.  Even if they did, they likely wouldn't admit it.  Most folk knew to keep to themselves and stay out of other people business, lest it come back and shiv you in a dark ally when you least expected.

Gren kept looking back the way he came, as the others jockied for position to decend the rusty ladder.  He, apparently, was still wrestling with decisions of his own.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:12, Mon 02 Apr 2012.

Vivo follows the group to the mouth of the sewer, then approaches the opening behind the dwarf.  Nearly gagging, the witch speaks up.  "I should probably go first.  If the ladder holds me, I think the rest of you will be fine.  You're more than welcome to continue, if you'd rather."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:38, Mon 02 Apr 2012.

Tempus climbed back up from where he had thrown his legs over the ladder with a smile on his face.

"By all means, you go first. You want a rope like the dwarf suggests? Wouldn't be a bad idea."

[Language unknown: Noural iouna latticaretho palin atni hassomher. Comastyin cepeun rat earnceble warom he n sa. Ho itday antin chut nante ioupr ur om En n hatnd his eiacen t.]

Peering over the edge to were the sewer opens into the ocean below, Erasmus wrinkles his nose.  An entire city's worth of runoff water, washing water, animal droppings, and chamber pot discards found it's way here.  The padded armor he now wore helped keep him a bit warmer than he was before, but he figured he would be paying for laundering services for both his armor and his clothing once this task was complete.

At mention of a thieving guild housing itself within, he briefly considered suggesting a delay in their mission until the next day so that he could request from Sarenrae intersessions more appropriate to the task at hand as the ones she currently granted him were really requested with easing travel in mind.  But then again, she was already willing to change those requests for ones of healing should they be required, and he wasn't certain he was really worthy to channel anything that would be more effective than what his companions could do.  So it was really sufficient that he could keep them capable of doing those things.

Chastened once again by the audacity of his finite awareness's attempts to outshine the plans of her divine Radiance, he moved to the ladder so that he could be on hand for any injuries that might be sustained in it's use, as well as scanned the coast to see if perhaps an alternative method to reach the sewer existed.

Procuring a rope from Gren, a few of the stronger members hold the guide rope as Vivo takes his first steps down the ladder. It seems to be going quite well until his foot comes down on the third rung. As he does so, it gives way slightly and from the wall, those looking over the edge can see a long metal spear emerge from the wall and impale their half-orc companion before shooting back into the wall. Vivo's eyes glaze over as his grip on the ladder and rope loosen and he falls into the icy water below with a splash, as his gear causes him to quickly sink beneath the murky water out of sight. Erasmus is quick to try and save the fellow but it seems in vain. Oddly enough, Etro, the half-orcs fox companion is nowhere to be seen.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:25, Wed 04 Apr 2012.

Nori watched as the half orc fell into the water. He half expected him to come up after a few seconds but it was not like that. He looked over at the others and made a notion with his eyes to see if anyone was planning to jump in after him. As it was, Nori was not going to do it. He did not owe the magic user anything, nor did he really like the fact he was a half orc.  He looked at Tempus and shrugged, "Suppose ya already found one trap."

Gren rushed over to the edge to also stare down into the water.   Gren cursed.  He turned his head to look at the Dwarf.  "I take back that crack I said about ladders."

The trap confirmed that this was an entrance used by the theives guild.  It also confirmed Gren's suspicion that there would be traps.  Somehow, he just didn't feel like saying "I told you so."  He turned to look back into the smelly foamy water were the Half-Orc disappeared.

Dale cringes when the spear hits Vivo.  He curses quietly too.  He'd liked the half-orc.  He'd been saved by a half-orc cleric once.

Can we get going now?

"Have a moment, man!"  Flinching when he realizes he spoke out loud again, he says, "Sorry.  After you?"  This last comment is made towards Tempus.

Tempus shook his head softly as he witnessed Vivo's fate. For a very brief moment he entertained the thought of going down after the half-orc, but he quickly discounted it. He had seen the spear pierce the man's heart. Even if he survived the fall the icy waters and pack pulling him down had surely finished the job. Tempus hadn't known Vivo and he was of hated orc blood. Still, he hated seeing anyone come to such an end.

"Let's be getting that rope pulled back up in case anyone inside seen that. We don't want to be giving them extra access to us." Tempus wasn't trying to give orders. He wasn't a leader. He was a woodsman from the forest and a loner for the most part, but he considered himself a practical man and the rope could actually entangle him if he chose to lead the way down the ladder next.

One thing was for sure. They had more than likely found the entrance to the thieves underground network.

After Nori spoke Tempus looked to him. He put the fake smile back on his lips to try to look non-plussed at the half-orcs fate. "Strangely enough, the first trap always seems the easiest to find. Imagine that." Tempus' smile almost became genuine when Gren took back his remark about Nori and the ladder. He may not have had a high opinion of his comrades setting out, but at least they appeared to learn from their mistakes.

When Dale spoke to him Tempus answered with a shrug of his shoulders. "Yeah I should probably go first. I reckon I have the most experience with traps since trapping and bounty hunting are my professions. I doubt they would have bothered with the trap if the entrance has a lookout, but let's give it a minute just in case shall we? Maybe the priest or monk would like to say a quick word for Vivo? And what about you, Big Man? Are you still intent on going back to check the old man's house or might you be joining us now?"

"I don't have my vestments with me, but I don't think he was of the faithful, so I doubt it will matter to him." Erasmus replies.  Standing up, he says a prayer asking for Sarenrae to save the half-orc that they knew so little about.  Vivo's death bothered the priest, both because it was senseless and unnecessary, but also because the circumstances causing it were questionable.

"I don't understand, the ladder is ostensibly there to give access so that city workers can dredge the sewer as needed.  How do the workers get in there if the thieves guild has trapped it?  Why isn't this a civil matter?" he asks, thinking out load.  "The guild must dredge the sewer themselves." he concludes.  "If there's never a backup, then workers never need to enter." he decides.

"Tempus, you should tie the rope around you this time, rather than just holding onto it.  If I had been able to reach Vivo quickly I could have saved him."  He was definitely going into the sewer now, the ruthless men dwelling within needed to be confronted.  How many children--he wondered--had decided to see what was inside the sewers out of curiosity, or on a dare, only to fall prey to this trap so carelessly placed out in the open.  How many children were missing, swept out to sea, never to come home because they were murdered by the thieves guild?  The trap confirmed their presence, if not of the thieves guild, of another group of ruthless men who needed to be brought to justice.  "I'll follow after you once you determine the path is safe." he continues.

  Looking over the sewer's edge, the Monk tilts his head when the Half-Orc unleashed a trap the looked like it was the last thing he would ever do. He like the others did not know the poor soul. He acted with indifference to the incident and stepped back from the edge.

  He felt it was possible they were being watched, and standing by the entrance may not be the smartest thing. He looks around the area, in the shadows and building tops. A quick glance as well at the dockworkers to see if they are still there or even if they were paying attention to the make shift mercenary group. It was possible they were guards of the Guild.

  He see's nothing that looks out of the way but one can never be to careful. He turns and looks at the Priest and self proclaimed Bounty Hunter. Taron waits till  Erasmus is done with his words and then adds his own. "Seems my words would be in vain to our departed comrade. I'm a monk not a priest and although I hope he went in peace, and without pain, my spirituality follows a different path than that of Erasmus."


15:37, Today: Taron Bein rolled 7 using 1d20+6. Perception check of the area.

He answered Tempus's question with a silent shrug.

Gren moved to the other side of Nori, to stand on the edge of the drop off just above the grate leading into the sewers.  "Dnah Egam," he enchants softly, as he opens his hand wide before him.  He makes movements with his hand as if trying to telekinetically open the grate from a distance.

Use Mage Hand to try and open grate entrance.

Taron looks around, taking in the dockworkers reaction to the unfortunate accident with Vivo but they all seem to be either oblivious to the incident or purposefully feigning ignorance. As far as he can determine, there are no guild scouts lurking nearby but then, that's their specialty so it's hard to say.

As Taron looks around, Gren makes himself busy with the grate they passed earlier; an act that seems to bear fruit as the magical hand lifts the grate off of its resting place and slides it open enough for someone to drop down through. There doesn't seem to be any traps triggered when the grate is moved either. The fall down seems to be about eight feet and doesn't sport a ladder this time around. With clever use of the rope and grate, it should be fairly easy to shimmy down the shaft into the tunnel.

Gren didn't know any of these fellows well enough to trust in their ability to disable the ladder trap.  He was also growing impatient.  So he decided to forge his own path.

Gren didn't feel the need to bother with a rope.  He was much taller than the others and so he simply lowered himself down as best he could then dropped the extra foot or so into the sewer.  He drew a javelin and waited for his eyes to adjust.  Much like the Dwarf, he had no issue seeing in the dark.  Until his eyes adjusted he listened for possible danger.

He trusted the others to follow shortly behind.

Perception roll = 0
This message was last edited by the player at 00:45, Thu 05 Apr 2012.

Luckily, the sky outside showed no hint of sun or else it would have taken longer for Grens eyes to adjust to the dim light that shines through the grate opening and a few smaller holes down the tunnel's length. From what he can see, he's landed on one side of the tunnel that has a sort of walkway. There seems to be one of them on the other side as well with the stream of human waste and refuse water rushing down the center. The pathway is no more than 4 feet wide and the tunnel itself is tall enough to allow Gren to barely stand upright. Up above, he hears the talk of the others noticing his handywork and disappearance and moving over to the hole to check if some ill fate has befallen the half-ogre as well.

Nori leaned over the edge and called out to Gren, once more someone grew impatient and went in before the trap finder. He figured half ogres weren't much smarter than half orcs, "Oi! Ya ded? Ya here me giant?"

He looked over at the others and shrugged, "If 'e is, least we got sumting big to land on."

"I know you have short legs so you can't run fast, but you should be able to fall just as fast as everybody else," grunted Gren, trying to keep his voice down.  The ogres Gren grew up with did things alot more different than humans did, for better or worse.  "I hope the orc's death didn't scare the lot of you off. How 'bout you get down here already."

Tempus seemed to be shaking his head a lot with this crowd as he was doing it again. That damn half-ogre sure as hell doesn't act smart enough to be a spellcaster! Those bastards must grow fast, 'cause he sure as hell isn't smart enough to have lived long enough to grow that big naturally.

"Well, just in case he did survive I suppose we should hurry on down there to help keep him that way. First he isn't smart enough to make up his mind what he wants to do, then he gets all contrary and does the opposite 'a what he said. Then he isn't even smart enough to check out dark holes before he drops into them. You better go in next dwarf so the big lummox has somebody smart to look after him."

Tempus was still shaking his head slowly as he moved over to help the dwarf or whoever went down next if need be.

Nori nodded, as long as he didnt go poking his nose into too many places, the chances of him popping a trap were minimal. Besides, tunnels and darkness were nothing new to him.

"A'right lads, hold da rope good now."

With one arm over the other, Nori lowered himself till he could see where Gren was before dropping down next to him. Instinctively he pulled the hammer from his back while his eyes adjusted as well. The two handed weapon would probably be too large to swing, but he could still cause some hurting by jabbing the large stone head into someone's ribs.

Between a combination of the rope held by those left above and Gren being below, ready to break the fall of those coming down, the rest of the group up top make it down into the sewers. As you look to the west, you can see daylight from the exit hole and to the east, it seems to trail off into darkness. The first thing you notice before the light situation though is the smell. To say that the smell of the sewer is rancid would be a gross understatement. If just a few short moments, a clump of trash, a dead rat, and something that you hesitate to even put a name to floats by on its way to the ocean. The only smell you can hear though is the sound of rushing water and the occasional far off splash.

Dale looks around at the filth and puts a sleeve over his mouth.  "Eg."

Don't forget, this way your idea.

Yes, thank you for that.  Out loud, he says, "The ocean's not far, so they're probably not that way.  We should head further under the city."

Into the scary, scary blackness?

"Yes, into the scary, scary blackness.  Minus the blackness."  Dale draws his sword and casts light on the shoulder of his armor.

Erasmus covers his mouth with his sleeve, wishing he was wearing his traveling robes once again so that he could tuck his nose inside and avoid most of the stench hands-free.  Looking about, he tries to judge who will be leading the way and approaches that person.  "Sarenrae's light shine upon you." he says to that person with a smile, and touches some necklace or item in their hand, causing the soft glow of a torch to emanate from it.  Pleased with having brought her radiance into this dark place, he moves to the center of the party and prepares to follow.

---

Cast light.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Thu 05 Apr 2012.

Gren flashed Dale a look.  He thought the man talked strangely, often seeming to reply to random thoughts. Humans... he thought with a shrug.  He then winced as both Dale and the priest summoned magical light.  He threw up a hand defensively and grunted with displeasure.

With a wave of his arm he invited everyone else to take the lead.  He would remain about 15ft behind the others to take advantage of his darkvision while covering the party's rear.

Nori was bothered by the smell but only to a degree. He actually thought he's gotten a stronger smell from himself when he traveled the wood for a while. He brought a burly forearm up to his mashed up nose and did his best to cover the stench. He stood with his back to the others, the light causing him problems with his darkvision.

He glanced over at Tempus and nodded ahead, "Go lad. If trouble comes a'brewin, get behind meh.

"Gah! By all the Worthless Gods! I've been in Orc dens that smell better'n this!"

Tempus took out a kerchief and wrapped it around his lower face. Dressed in black leathers as he was, with his face masked he looked every bit the highwayman. The smell was not blocked, but it was blunted a bit. Tempus pulled a torch that he planned to light when the cleric stepped forward and cast a spell upon it. Well. That will work I suppose. I guess I'll get to use this particular torch again. Drawing his sword and holding it ready he prepared to move deeper into the tunnel, eyes darting around the tunnel in search of possible traps.

"Well Lads, looks like the fun's about to begin"

The group ventures forwards for a few minutes to find that the light is quite effective in illuminating their path as well as scaring off rats and roaches. What it isn't good at doing, however, is keeping any sentient denizens unaware of their presence. Every 50 feet or so, there is a small 3 foot by 3 foot pipe leading off in either direction, some with refuse and water flowing out of them, some not.

As the group passes by one particular one, they hear a noise echoing off the stone pipes. It seems to be a high pitch voice with some excitement in its voice, [Language unknown: "Usei! Tedan! Atelesnti! Iou tiad ntepo tranen ilecri omethioun sasta hat! I us ardoutess ilpang! Naio eeio itng pl!"] After the voice dissipates, you can hear the shuffling of multiple feet and the scraping of metal on stone a ways off but no light presents itself. A few moments later, a handful of small mottled brownish green creatures jump out of a few of the nearest pipes; four in front of the party, and six behind.

They have sharp, malicious looking eyes and are quite jumpy though they seem to know how to wield the collection of short swords and daggers they wield at the party. One points at Dalinar, the best dressed in the group and all the creatures let out a yipping cheer as they begin to move in.

Actions!

(Map coming when I'm not dead tired and half asleep)
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:19, Fri 06 Apr 2012.

"Parlay!" [Language unknown: "Houverlin!"] [Language unknown: "Heerbe!"] Erasmus cries out, in every language that he knows.  He hoped to avoid bloodshed in this filthy place, and perhaps if the creatures were smart enough to use tools..."Perhaps we can persuade them to take us where we want to go!" he says, white-knuckling his quarterstaff.

---

Initiative: 3

08:53, Today: Erasmus rolled 3 using 1d20-2.    <--This was an initiative roll, wasn't properly labeled.  Would be happy to reroll it if necessary. ;-)

Finally!  We've been in this city for almost half a day and there is just now something to fight? James complains.  Let's go.

"Absolutely," Dale replies.  To Eramus, he says, "Don't think they're listening, mate."  Not that I'm complaining.

Initiative rolled 14 using 1d20+2. Dale activates an arcane point as a swift action to increase attack bonus for 1 min.  He won't move, but if a goblin comes near, he will attack 16 using 1d20+6. Damage rolled 5 using 1d8+3.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:11, Fri 06 Apr 2012.

Gren cocked back the arm he was holding the javelin in.  He pointed it menacingly at one of the creatures that popped up behind the group.  "Any of you know what these things are trying to say? he asked.  He held out his free hand palm towards the creatures in the universal gesture of "Halt.  Stay where you are or I'll pierce your guts with this pointy thing."

"Speak Common, you ugly little runts!" he bellows intimidatingly.  Gren slowly starts backing up towards the rest of the group.  He was ready to impale any of these things if they made any hostile moves or even so much as stepped towards him.

Initiative = 18; Move - back towards group; Hold Action until any of the above criteria are met.  If forced to attack, throws javelin (using 1 use of mighty throw):  Attack roll = 14, Damage = 11.  If not forced to attack, he casts Shield on himself.

09:10, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 4 using 1d20+2. initiative .

Nori growled low in his throat at the enemy that came before them. His people had fought the filthy little creatures for generations beneath the ground and like the orc, there was definitely no such thing as parley.

He held himself in check however, the rest of the group did not seem greatly eager to attack the little filth. He held his hammer tightly, wishing nothing more than to smash one of the little bugs into the pungent water and have it wash away, maybe eaten by the fish and rats.

Any form of aggression or attack by either side and Nori would be lunging himself forward, warcry yelling and hammer smashing.

OOC: Rolled horrible initiative or I would have lunged already. Tempus, feel free to get behind me or stay up front.

18:27, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Nori Hammerfist, rolled 9,13 using 1d20+4,2d6+3. hit, dmg.

This message was last edited by the GM at 01:27, Sat 07 Apr 2012.

Maybe today, Marrisa!

Tempus smiled beneath his make-shift mask and lept toward the nearest creature thrusting his sword before him. He had heard Nori's offer of protection but Tempus had no desire to be shielded. What his actual desire was he wasn't certain, other than that if it was his time he would take as many of whatever he was fighting with him as he could. And who knew. Maybe make some money if he survived.

15:31, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 10 using 1d8+3. damage.
15:31, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 10 using 1d20+4. attack long sword.
15:27, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 15 using 1d20+7. Initiative.

LOL. Great attack roll.

  Taron had taken a place near the rear of the line. His limited ability to attack at a distance made him more of a target than an asset at the front-line. If he'd only listened to his master and taken the offered crossbow he would possibly be of more use up ther, but he was stubborn and left the Monastery with only the items he had when his father left him there. At least in the back of the line the over grown Gren would make a useful shield. Seems now it was a good choice with a half dozen of noisy little creatures coming at the rear guard.

  The young monk lowers his arm from his face were he was using it to mask the smell of the current situation. Leading with his left leg forward he spread the stance of his legs a couple feet apart and slightly crouched, his left arm stretched out palm forward and his right hand clenched and held at the waist. Hewaits for the creatures to make there move, then he lashes out.


17:57, Today: Taron Bein rolled 18 using 1d20+3. Initiative.
18:03, Today: Taron Bein rolled 5,3,4,8 using d20+2,d20+2,d6+3,d6+3. Att Flurry, unarmed strike, Dam, Dam.
18:58, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Taron Bein, rolled 1 using 1d6. Fumble Roll.


OOC: Really, that's how this attack is gonna go, looks like my ass is gettin wet.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:58, Sat 07 Apr 2012.

Gren holds his javelin out in front of him in a threatening manner and speaks to the party quickly, "Any of you know what these things are trying to say?" as he holds out his hand in attempt to warn the goblins off. The tense standoff continues for a few seconds before the goblins continue their advance, their intentions plain on their evil little faces; slit their throats and take their valuables. "Parlay!" [Language unknown: "Usseol!"] [Language unknown: "Miitin!"] Erasmus cries out, hoping to avoid a confrontation but it seems they either can't understand him or aren't listening as the first two in the back approach the party. "Don't think they're listening, mate." Dale says over his shoulder to the cleric. At their first step, Gren chucks a javelin at the little creature but his speed seems to outmatch the predictable trajectory of the half-ogres throw, which clangs on the stone and lands a little bit away on the walkway which causes the goblins in back take a moment to look at what made the noise. "Speak Common, you ugly little runts!" he bellows intimidatingly.

As the goblin that dodged Gren's javelin approaches Taron, the monk lets off a duo of unarmed strikes though, being used to hitting unmoving target dummies and instructors that focus more on precision and power than combat, they are off target as the goblin dodges them both though it seems his own dodging has caused his slash with the short sword to miss as well.

As more of the goblins move in, one passes too close to Taron on his way to Dale without giving him enough attention as Taron is able to strike out and deliver a powerful punch to the goblin's ribs and send it splashing into the sewage who's current quickly carries the thing screaming and gurgling away towards the icy ocean. Seeing his companion succumb to the sewer, the look in Dale's eyes, and the way he holds his blade ready, the goblin behind him doesn't make the same mistake though and takes the opening in Taron's defenses to open up a gash on the monk's upper arm! (4 dmg)

On the other side of the skirmish, the goblins move forward as well but a little more cautiously with the confident looking bounty hunter and the eager dwarf staring them down like they were a prime cut of steak. One decides to try his luck though and charges the bounty hunter with a high pitched cry and is able to open a wound between his chain shirt and his pants. Though the sword scrapes off bone painfully, causing the bounty hunter to miss his swing at the now grinning creature, the actual damage is little. (3 dmg)

The brave goblin's success causes the doubt to flood out of the remaining goblins as they dash into the fray themselves giving Tempus another chance to do harm to one of the green menaces, this time succeeding catching the creature under the chin, opening it's jugular and causing it to fall forward limply into the dwarf's hammer blow which sends it flying clear across the wash between the walkways and slams into the opposite wall with a loud crack and a thud. The remaining goblins skid to a halt and find themselves remembering why they hesitated in the first place.



Initiative
Before: Gren , Taron
Monsters
After: Tempus , Dale , Nori , Erasmus
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:45, Sat 07 Apr 2012.

Tempus grunts at the pain in his hip but presses on with the attack, driving straight toward the creature directly in front of him. The creatures were small targets and fast, and as Tempus had experienced they weren't unskilled in arms, but the Ranger seemed unconcerned with death as he struck again.

"Don't let any escape!"


22:48, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 5 using 1d8+3. damage.
22:47, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 24 using 1d20+4. attack long sword. (Ha! A 20!)
16:26, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Tempus Edwyn, rolled 23,11 using 1d20+4,1d8+3. Crit Confirm, Dmg.
 
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:27, Sun 08 Apr 2012.

  Turning to face the creature who now has Tarons blood on his sword, the pain on his face was obvious.
  He quickly throw's out a ridge hand and follows it with a snap kick, meaning to flatten the bastards nose.

00:07, Today: Taron Bein rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Initiative. 00:07, Today: Taron Bein rolled 9,9,7,5 using d20+2,d20+2,d6+3,d6+3. Att Flurry, unarmed strike, Dam, Dam.

Dale steps up to the goblin nearest him and swings his sword at it.

James is already getting tetchy.  Tiny little buggers are a pain to hit!

Dalinar Reynolds rolled 9 attack using 1d20+6. Dalinar Reynolds rolled 8 damage using 1d8+3.

Gren sneared.  He had just the spell to hit such quick little critters.  "Ekirts Eurt," he enchanted.  Visible to only Gren, three red glowing triangles appeared in his palm; the three triangles touched points to form what looked like a single three-petaled flower.  The same magical triangles appeared on one of the little golblin folk.  They around moved the goblins body as if waiting for Gren to decide on the exact spot he wanted to hit.  Gren stepped to the side to get a clear shot.

Cast True Strike.  Gren moves to K7.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 20:13, Sat 07 Apr 2012.

After smashing the one charging goblin, Nori felt good to smash the little bugger. With a controlled fury he stepped forward into the range of the next creature, once more his hammer was aimed at the monster before him. As the weapon flew towards teh goblin, a war cry erupted from beneath his beard. He was on the brink of losing control.

5 foot step to I9.

12:39, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 9 using 2d6+3. dmg .
12:38, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 17 using 1d20+4. attack goblin I-10.

"If you will not parlay then flee from a servant of Sarenrae!" Erasmus bellows from behind Tempus and Nori.  He brandishes his holy symbol and stands tall, waving his arms and his staff in a manner he expects primitive shaman employ, hoping to cow a number of the creatures.

---

Using Intimidate to demoralize one of the goblins Tempus & Nori are fighting.  If 14 beats the DC then the goblin is Shaken for 1 round (+1 for every 5 points I beat the DC) and thus takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks.

18:44, Today: Erasmus rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Intimidate: Demoralize (DC:10+HD+Wismod).

Taron strikes out at the goblin who dealt him the blow but the little creature again is able to avoid the limbs flying at him. An attempt by the goblin to score a second hit though is thwarted as Taron brings his foot down from his kick and knocks the creature's arm away. Meanwhile, behind Taron, Gren makes some complex motions with his hands and speaks the activation words to his spell, "Ekirts Eurt." To everyone else it seems that nothing has happened though Gren has a knowing look on his face as he readies another javelin.

Behind the party, the group of goblins that had stopped to investigate Gren's previously thrown javelin turn back to the party and with shrill noises that could pass for laughter, the frontmost goblin picks up the javelin. It's quite heavy for the little creature and he almost stumbles and falls as he tries to lift it over his head but he's able to regain his balance and throw it back into the fray. Despite the seemingly futile effort on the goblins part, the javelins aim is true and embeds itself in Gren's shoulder! (8 dmg) The other two of the group rush forward behind their friends, eager to get into the fighting themselves.

The newly started fight between Dale and his goblin companion is off to an inconclusive start as both step in to attack each other with sword in hand. Both slashes meet each other, giving off a quick glimpse of sparks from the crude iron of the goblin's weapon. There is no contest in strength between the two, however, and Dale easily pushes the blade back but misses his opportunity to find mark on his opponent.

"If you will not parlay then flee from a servant of Sarenrae!" Erasmus bellows from behind Tempus and Nori.  He brandishes his holy symbol and stands tall, waving his arms and his staff in a manner he expects primitive shaman employ, hoping to cow a number of the creatures. If he can play upon lesser beings superstition of magic, perhaps he can sway the skirmish more-so in their favor. This seems to work on the goblin opposite Nori in conjunction with the dwarf's presence as the goblin looks back and forth between the two and begins to visibly tremble.

As Nori, now fuming with anger, steps forward to attack the little goblin in front of him, it tries to take its dagger and with its last shred of courage, embed it in the barbarian's stomach. The attempt is met with an evil glare as the dwarf kicks the goblin's arm, sending its weapon into the drink and follows up with a brutal overhand hammer blow and a bellowing war cry, crushing the goblin underneath who had just enough time to raise his hands over his head in defense and loosen his bowels in fear.

Tempus is met with a similar situation as the short sword wielding goblin in front of him attempts to go for the ranger's neck, not a small feet when you're only half the size of your opponent. Unluckily for the goblin, Tempus's sword stroke take off not only the creatures weapon hand, but also his head. "Don't let any escape!" he yells to the party as the body of his foe hits the ground and rolls against the wall of the sewer where it comes to rest.



Initiative
Before: Gren, Taron
Monsters
After: Tempus, Dale, Nori, Erasmus

Recap
Dale: full hp
Erasmus: full hp
Gren: -8 hp
Nori: full hp
Taron: -4 hp
Tempus: -3 hp


This message was lightly edited by the GM at 23:45, Sun 08 Apr 2012.

Gren bellows in pain, his left arm all but useless now.  The javelin he was hit with went in deep seperating the ball and shoulder joint.  Gren bared his teeth.  As warm blood poured from the wound and soaked into his shirt he concentrated on the goblin that threw the javelin.  The glowing triangles that only he could see, jumped from the original goblin he was targeting to this one. The three triangles connected to form the three petal target right over the goblin's heart.

Gren fought through the pain and desire to faint to see that his spell didn't go to waste.  The triangles on his palm traveled up his arm to the javelin, and formed a thin beam of light that only he could see.  The light connected the tip of his javelin to the goblin's chest.  He hurled the javelin with his remaining strength, then slumped against the sewer wall.  His face went white and he fought to remain standing.  As if by instinct he drew his club, but didn't look like he was going to have the energy to use it.

Attack = 27, Damage = 12.  Current HP = 1
This message was last edited by the player at 00:07, Mon 09 Apr 2012.

  With the pain in his arm getting worse, and the outcome of the fight not going as he had hoped, Taron is beginning to think his mentor  Cayson was right. Perhaps he wasn't ready to search for his destiny so young.

  He quickly shook those thoughts from his mind. If Cayson had taught him anyhting it was to keep his head clear and free of distraction. He was ablr to deflect the attack of the goblin and followed up with two quick jabs to the creature.

20:12, Today: Taron Bein rolled 8,12,5,9 using d20+3,d20+3,d6+3,d6+3. Att Flurry, unarmed strike, Dam, Dam

"Help the others" Tempus called as he pressed on the attack toward the last creature before him. His blade seemed to have a thirst for the throats of the creatures as he had now struck down two in such a fashion. "Maybe not today, Marrisa." he muttered as he lept over the one he had just dispatched and swung at the last. My blade doesn't seem to think it's my time.


OOC: Just in case Tempus gets a chance to swing after moving-
Tempus Edwyn rolled 11 using 1d20+4. attack long sword.
Tempus Edwyn rolled 5 using 1d8+3. damage.

Nori nodded at Tempus' words, the warrior proved himself to be handy with the sword and showed great composure even though they were ambushed by the small creatures. He turned and hurried the other way, unfortunately the passage was too thin for him to reach the other enemies. Still, he bellowed ahead at the creatures on the other side of the group, "Come an get meh ya sniv'ling lil snots!"

He glanced a moment at the giant leaning against the wall and nudged his side with one of his elbows, "Oi, still wit us giant?"


Moving to I-7. Behind Dale
21:24, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 16 using 1d20+4. Intimidate.

This message was last edited by the player at 02:25, Mon 09 Apr 2012.

Annoying that the obnoxious little goblin could block him, Dale swings wildly, finally getting past its crude sword.

As if that thing could stop me! James groused.

"The goblin?" 

The sword!

20:19, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 23 using 1d20+6. attack on I5.
20:19, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 6 using 1d8+3. damage on I5.

Hearing Gren cry out, Erasmus spins around, grabbing onto the goblin's javelin with one hand and pressing the palm of his hand onto the wound with another.  Murmuring low, he beseeches his goddess to cleans and close the wound, guiding the javelin out of his shoulder as the injury responds to the guidance of her radiance.

---

Standard: Spontaneous Casting Bless Water to cast Cure Light Wounds on Gren for 8 hp.
Move: n/a

08:50, Today: Erasmus rolled 8 using 1d8+1. Cure Light Wounds -> Gren.

Javelin sticking out of his left shoulder, Gren grits his teeth and holds his footing. With a grunt and his last remaining strength, he hurls the javelin at the cocky little goblin, showing him how a javelin is properly thrown as is goes cleanly through the creature's chest and lands behind it with a clank as metal hits stone once again. His goal accomplished, Gren falls against the wall, the loss of blood turning him a sickly pale color. This gains the attention of Erasmus, however, who spins around and lays hands on the half-ogre's wound and the javelin and mutters a quick prayer to Sarenrae. As he pulls the javelin out slowly, which is extremely painful for Gren, the wounds begin to close behind it until the javelin is out and the wound looks like it never existed in the first place save for the rip in the sorcerer's clothing. (+8 hp)

Taron once again engages his opponent with a duo of quick jabs and once again it evades him and once again, the monk's quick movements allow him to dodge the strike from the sword. To an outsider, it would almost look like an odd dance the way they keep lunging out and jumping away form each other.

As Dale pushes back the goblin's sword, he continues his strike downwards, cutting deeply into the goblin's left shoulder, resulting in a spray of blackish green blood but the creature does not go down, instead, a dangerous although a bit glazed look comes into its eyes as it fall forward attempting to skewer him on his blade. The loss of blood and his likely wavering consciousness get the best of him though as the slick floor underneath gets the best of him and he slips. With a quick push from Dale, another goblin meets his untimely end to the rushing sewer.

"Help the others," Tempus calls as he moves forward to engage the only goblin left before the group. He says something quietly under his breath that the other party members fail to hear but jumps enthusiastically over the fallen goblin as he makes his way to the next one. Striking out with his sword, Tempus attempts to end his last foe quickly though the goblin has other plans. The small creature ducks under the strike and raises his sword into Tempus's, leaving his torso wide open. Blinding pain erupts behind Tempus's eyes as six inches of steel are embedded in his gut! (4 dmg)

Nodding at Tempus's words, Nori sets off to the other half of the fight hoping to get himself another kill. The wall of fighters formed by Dale and Taron is too close together for him to squeeze through though without putting his skin at risk, "Come an get meh ya sniv'ling lil snots!" the barbarian bellows with a toothy grin speaking of the things he wants to do to them plain on his face causing the remaining goblins to look at each other nervously and take a half step back. He glanced a moment at the giant leaning against the wall and nudged his side with one of his elbows, "Oi, still wit us giant?"



Initiative
Before: Gren, Taron
Monsters
After: Tempus, Dale, Nori, Erasmus

Recap
Dale: full hp
Erasmus: full hp
Gren: full hp
Nori: full hp
Taron: -4 hp
Tempus: -7 hp


This message was last edited by the GM at 05:43, Tue 10 Apr 2012.

~Well maybe I've finally gotten it done, Marrisa.~ Tempus thought to himself. ~It seems my blade isn't as thirsty for goblin blood as I'd thought. Well I'm taking the bastard with me! Three is a good reckoning I'll wager.~

Despite the fire in his guts and the weakening of his arms Tempus pressed forward with his attack, reversing the direction of the blow the goblin had ducked under and slashing back with his blade, intent on taking the goblin with him if he were to die. Trying to flee or to avoid death never crossed his mind.

Tempus Edwyn rolled 16 using 1d20+4. attack long sword.
Tempus Edwyn rolled 10 using 1d8+3. damage.
I figured I may as well roll even though he'll probably kill me before I get to strike. LOL

 Taron was sure the gobnlin was full of luck this day, and a bit crafty. He was without a doubt faster than Taron thought a mindless creature would be. But then how much did he know about beings outside the Rat'zei Monastery.

 The monk did have moves of his own. With the exception of the creatures first attack, he'd been able to keep away from the little beasts blade.Taking a deep breath he leads with a knee trying to knock the teeth from the goblins gums, following with a heel kick.


21:23, Today: Taron Bein rolled 16,8,4,6 using d20+3,d20+3,d6+3,d6+3. Att Flurry, unarmed strike, Dam, Dam.

Dale, move!  Crazy dwarf wants through.

Dale takes a step forward to let Nori come up behind him and slashes at the goblin.

20:57, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 11 using 1d20+6. attack on I4. FAIL
20:57, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 10 using 1d8+3. damage on I4.

Nori nearly jumped forward into the goblins dagger as soon as Dale made room for him to attack. Instead he kept his calm barely in check and moved forward swinging his heavy hammer at the little beast. Already he was looking ahead ready to smash everything in his path.

"Ha! Now yer in for it ya misr'ble lot!"

Nori was on the brink of releasing his rage on the last of the goblins.


Take 5 ft step forward behind Dale.

23:20, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 8 using 2d6+3. Dmg .
23:20, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 12 using 1d20+4. ATK Goblin J-5.

"Thank you priest," Gren said as he regained his composure.  The healing touch had restored him to good as new.  Still, the pain was fresh in his mind and his shirt was sticky and wet with blood.  "Aye, Nori, I'm fine.  Why do you ask?" he asked sarcastically.  "Needing me to hold them still for ya so you can hit'em?"

Gren looked back and forth and saw an opportunity to aid Tempus.  He moved so as to allow those companions closest to him to manuver.  He then turned his attention to the goblin Tempus faced.  Gren knew of a spell that was quick and easy to get off, "Ezad!"

Move to I9, Cast Daze on J12 goblin, Will DC13 to negate

Seeing the way ahead of him was crowded, Erasmus turned his attention to the lone man behind him.  He wasn't much of a warrior, but he knew enough to at least be annoying.  Hopping over the corpse of one of the goblins, he started jabbing at the little creature with his quarterstaff, trying to get it in the way of the creature's weapon to hinder it's swings.

---

Move: Go to I11
Standard: Aid Another to give Tempus a +2 to AC

17:09, Today: Erasmus rolled 17 using 1d20-2. Aid Another; Tempus; AC.

Letting himself concentrate and breathing out slowly, Taron retaliates with a quick knee to the goblin's face and much to the little creature's surprise, it connects with the side of its head as it tries to dodge and fails. With an audible cracking sound, its eyes roll back into its head and it falls back just as Nori's hammer nearly takes Taron's leg off at the knee as the dwarf lunges with his hammer past Dale who had moved forward enough to let the little man through. "Ha! Now yer in for it ya misr'ble lot!" he yells, obviously unaware of how close he came to maiming his companion. Getting all but pushed forward by the dwarf, Dale attempts an awkward swing with his black-bladed sword which ends up meeting the goblin's blade but neither find their mark as they stumble around on the wet stone. This seems to be fortuitous though as his stumbling takes him out of the way of the remaining goblin's slash to his mid section, a strike that would have surely opened his gut.

"Thank you priest," Gren said as he regained his composure.  The wound in his shoulder was healed but the blood still remained fresh and sticky on his clothes, a reminder of his close call.  "Aye, Nori, I'm fine.  Why do you ask?" he asked sarcastically.  "Needing me to hold them still for ya so you can hit'em?" An obvious jab after seeing him and his spectacular miss just moments earlier.

Still attempting to recover from the sword which was just being yanked from his stomach with another roar of pain accompanying it, the goblin arcs his arm back ready to skewer the ranger's heart with his next strike. With a look of a man on death's door, a look of determination comes over Tempus as he begins to bring his blade back down to take his foe with him. Gren and Erasmus happen to look over at this exact moment and both jump into action, Erasmus rushing over with his quarterstaff swinging wildly and Gren quickly casting a spell and sent it flying at the goblin about to off the man. "Ezad!" the giant bellowed with authority. Just as the goblin went to finish the job, it seems as if he had just gotten clubbed over the head and dropped his guard giving Tempus the change he needed to cleave the thing from shoulder to hip.

The remaining two goblins look at each other and both seem to have a look of worry on their face as one looks over his shoulder to the pipe that they came through.



Initiative
Before: Gren, Taron
Monsters
After: Tempus, Dale, Nori, Erasmus

Recap
Dale: full hp
Erasmus: full hp
Gren: full hp
Nori: full hp
Taron: -4 hp
Tempus: -7 hp

As the last goblin before him falls Tempus drops to his knees clutching his gut, oblivious to the two remaining goblins and his own entreaty not to let any escape. His head bowed, Tempus weakly mutters "Thanks." He had no idea if the others heard him for his mind was elsewhere. Else-when actually. Six months previous. ~Not yet, Marrisa. Not yet.~

Gren quickly turned to face the other direction.  He points a finger at one of the goblins (J4).  "Ezad!" he called out once more hoping to daze the dangerous mottled-skin marauder.

Cast Daze again.  Will DC13

  After feeling the goblins cartilage and bone crush under his knee, Taron's confidence steps up a notch. But it was short lived, he stepped to the next annoying critter and threw a front snap kick, followed by a roundhouse. Noting but air.

22:38, Today: Taron Bein rolled 5,8,8,7 using d20+3,d20+3,d6+3,d6+3. Att Flurry, unarmed strike, Dam, Dam.

OOC: I am so sick of this f'n dice roller

Dale's eyes lit up when his sword made contact, but was frustrated once again to note that it didn't get through the little bugger's armor.

Murder the thing already!

You're not helping!

19:46, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 8 using 1d8+3. damage on I4.
19:46, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 14 using 1d20+6. attack on I4.

The situation on one side resolved, Erasmus turns to see the rest of the party is still having trouble on their side.   His shaman routene seemed to have an effect on the ones Tempus had slain, so he continues the effort at those remaining.  "Flee the servants of Sarenrae, creatures of darkness!  Her light cleanses those it shines upon!" he calls out in the charasmatic voice of a street preacher who's drawn a crowd as he waves his staff in what he supposes look like mystical motions.

---

Move: Move to I8
Standard: Demoralize one of the remaining goblins with 23.

09:10, Today: Erasmus rolled 23 using 1d20+6. Intimidate: Demoralize (DC:10+HD+Wismod).

Nori once more stays behind Dale, the whole time yelling that he cant get to the little creatures. Half tempted to jump into the mucky water he begins to curse up a storm of random dwarven curse words. He wondered if Dale would mind taking a swim.

---

11:29, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 6 using 1d20+4. Intimidate. FAIL
Stay behind Dale

Successful with his first attempt to daze a target and in doing so, saving Tempus's life, Gren repeats his spell, aiming at the goblin in front of Taron. The spell goes off but it seems to not effect the creature as it easily ducks under Taron's blows. With the two final goblins already unsure of themselves with the near frothing dwarf almost able to get at them and most of their companions dead or dying, the man shouting of holy magical wrath seems to be the straw that broke the camels back. The two throw their weapons at Dale and Taron as a distraction and flee at top speed for the sanctuary of their pipe. The two make it in with astounding speed and disappear like rats in a...well, sewer.

Final Recap
Dale: full hp
Erasmus: full hp
Gren: full hp
Nori: full hp
Taron: -4 hp
Tempus: -7 hp

"There go any hopes on sneaking up on anybody," Gren grunts.  "One has to wonder if the theives guild bribes those creatures to stick around and make a ruckus for that very reason."

Gren passes by the pipe work and looks in to see if the goblin's escaped or if he could still pick one off with a well placed spear.
If not...
With the critter's escape, Gren shrugs and retrieves his thrown javelins.

Ignoring James' full-blown rant about going after them, Dale asks Gren, "Are goblins bright enough to take bribes?"

-And lastly, why didn't you just shoot them with the shooty magic?!

Oh gods, Dale thinks, if James is making up words again then he's really annoyed.  "Magic's hard.  I want to save my strength for the men that are actually as tall as me."

As Gren goes to look into the pipe to see if he can nab another goblin before they get away, he can hear the scraping of stone on stone and the sudden sound of rushing water. Jerking his head back from the opening just in time, a torrent of filthy water that smells far worse than anything so far jets out of the pipe into the sewer and begins to lessen its pressure slowly until it is just a small stream flowing down the wall, over the walkway, and down to join the current.

"Graah!  I almost got a mouth full of butt water.  If I see those things again they're dead." he grumbles.  He tethers his club back to this belt and keep one of the recovered javelin's in hand.  "Best bind wounds now, before we move on.  I imagine only more dangers lurk ahead."

Dale bends over and gags at the smell.

Oh, even I smelled that.

"Let's... let's get out of here, yeah?" Dale walks in the direction they were originally headed in hopes of putting distance between himself and... that.

Tempus shifted from where he was on his knees and placed his back against the sewer wall, sitting with his legs straight out. His left foot found the magically lit torch he had dropped when he clutched his stomach and kicked it in Dale's general direction.

"Help yourself. I'm just gonna sit here and bleed for a bit. I'm not going to be much good to you all now. But do me a favor and go through these fellas pockets. I'd like to make something off this little venture if I can't go on for the bounty."

Dale looks at Tempus, then at Eramus, then back at Tempus.  "And people call me a drama queen."

I think they mean something a bit different with you.

Nori was close to giving chase when the goblins ran but knew better as this den of thieves was full of traps. Instead he just yelled and grumbled at the fleeing little creatures, "Serves ya right ya filt'y buggers."

He kept his weapon out as he looked over the rest of the group to see how they were doing. Tempus of course being the worst one off. He looked at Erasmus or Gren, "Cantya do someting for em?" The human had fought well and Nori hated to see a warrior go down to goblins. The fact that he was their primary trap finder didn't escape him either.

"The healing arts are unknown to me.  Erasmus there as quite the blessed touch however.  That I can attest to first hand.  He absent-mindedly rubs the shoulder that was injured, then healed.  The blood drenched shirt causes him to scowl once more.

Erasmus considered Tempus's injuries and contemplates the miracles he had prayed for this morning.  They were all the sort to ease travel and better perform his duties, but such miracles--the pure energy behind them--could always be channeled to restore the body to it's proper form, to a degree.  He considers this and decides that the promise Sarenrae had made to show him others of the faith could be put off for now.  Anyone going without guidance wouldn't suffer for being deprived of his wisdom for another day.  So he approached Tempus and prayed over him, stopping the bleeding, though the flesh didn't completely seal.

"Tempus's life isn't in danger, but his injuries are still severe." Erasmus announces to no one in particular.  "I agree, you should stick to the rear and guard against any ambushes, but otherwise stay out of the fighting if it can be helped."   He turns back to the rest of the ground.  "If we're lucky, the few that ran off will work for us, letting the others of their kind to stay away from us for now on."

---

Cast Cure Light Wounds on Tempus, healing 2 HP.

While Erasmus's healing only helps to staunch the bleeding, it does give Tempus a burst of strength and helps to dull the pain considerably. While the priest tends to him, the rest of the group has started to deal with the bodies of the slain goblins, checking for any valuables as per Tempus's suggestion. Not much of value is found but after everything useful is piled up it seems that they have 4 sets of small leather armor, 2 daggers, 6 short swords, and a few pouches with the contents amounting to 32 silver pieces and 14 coper pieces.

  Now that the fight was over Taron has a chance to think about how bad he did. Doesn't do a lot for his ego. Anyone looking at him would be able to tell he was angry at himself. He tries to shake the feeling away but it don't seem to want to leave.

  For now he stays quiet while the others get tended to and rummage through the goblins for whatever they got. He isn't really interested, figuring the creatures didn't have much anyhow. Instead the Monk takes some time to tend to his own injured arm. He rips a pocket out of the inside of his jacket, wets it with water from his 'skin and cleans the wound. He then cuts a couple feet of twine from out of his belt pouch and ties the cloth to around the wound. Hopefully he can at least stop the bleeding.

  Once done he joins the group and looks at Erasmus and the injured bounty hunter. "Well Holy-man, in case you didn't notice, the rear of our little group was not so safe a place. Better he stay in the middle with you and keep you safe. If we don't do any better that we just did, you and your Goddess are gonna be real busy with us." Taron grins turns toward the others waiting to see who's gonna take point now.

Tempus climbed tenderly to his feet, retrieving the torch that Dale had declined to pick up in the process. He wavered slightly at first but became more steady by sheer force of will. The clerics entreaties to his god seemed to have done some good but not much. Tempus wasn't surprised. He knew what blessings the god had bestowed had simply been a favor to the holy man himself. The gods had abandoned Tempus long ago. They had not only abandoned him, they had seemed to cast their disfavor upon him. ~Well curse their worthless hides all the more for it. I am a man and can stand and fall on my own! But Marrisa...damn you all to the eternal hells...Marrisa deserved better!~

"I'll maintain the lead." Tempus said through teeth clinched in anger, though he supposed it sounded as if he spoke through pain. "My blade hasn't slaked it's thirst yet and it appears to be more eager for the fight then some others. If he will, the dwarf can walk along-side me. The path is wide enough and two sets of eyes on the watch are better than one.

I wish that sword the Dandy keeps talking to actually spoke. I'd keep tossing the bastard ahead of us and have it give warning if there were anything to fear. Then at least it would be of use. I suppose we'll just have to rely on it for what little it seems to add to a fight."

Dale has James resting on one shoulder when he replies, "Eh, can't talk to him unless I'm touching him anyway.  If he's not being too ornery, he'll look around corners sometimes."

Wait for it...

"Hey, did you just call me Dandy?!"

Knew we'd get there.

"You misunderstand." Erasmus declares, responding to Taron.  "Tempus's injuries in no way hinder him in any of his efforts.  His martial training saw to that.  He's every bit as capable of killing a goblin as he was before we entered these sewers.  But there is no part of the body one can sustain an injury while paying no cost.  Should he turn another lucky blow by one of the creatures to a 'non-essential' part of his body, it could pierce an organ." he elaborates.  "As the creatures weren't standing directly next to me, I was in fact able to keep my wits enough to count the things.  There were far more of them behind us than in front.  They had intended to force us deeper into their lair, perhaps hoping to split us up, or at least pick us off, but they were slaughtered instead.  If these creatures are as base as I believe them to be, then they will next try to force us out, and thus the show of force will come from in front of us.  They'll leave us an avenue to run away, hoping that we'll do just that.  So it would be safer if he were in the back, both to protect him as well as to protect us if I'm wrong."

He stands there, thinking for a few more moments, and shrugs. "...I could be wrong...

"Bah, you think too much priest.  If the man says he has an eye for traps, let'm lead.  Nori, will be right up there with'm should more goblin's ambush us. I'll stay in back like before.  Your gods were kind to me.  Other than bein' a bit sticky I feel fine."  Gren figured if they encounterd an assassin, he'd likely try to sneak up from behind.  Gren's darksight would hopefully allow him to see him coming.  Just in case, he carried his club in his left hand and a javelin in the right.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Mon 16 Apr 2012.

Nori nodded and agreed with Tempus' suggestion to stay in front with him. He moved up making sure to stay alert for any form of ambush or goblin attack. He was still angry he couldn't reach the last ones that ran away and hoped he would see them again. He was ready to move whenever the group was.

With Tempus's injury healed well enough for the man to walk normally with little to no pain, the group continues into the sewer further. As expected, the further they proceeded, the worse the smell got. Only a few minutes after they fought the goblins, they find themselves at a "T" junction in the pipes. The side they are currently on leads south along the outside edge of the pipe. The putrid sewer water rushes down from both pipes and collides at the intersection before swirling off to head down the pipe they came from. At this point, the only light available in the magically lit torch they had as the grates to the city seem to have stopped this far in. That or they are currently under a building where the streets would be inaccessible.

"Shall we proceed? I see no reason not to continue on the path we've taken so far, unless someone things crossing the stream here would be a good idea..." Erasmus says, growing a little impatient at the fact that they've stopped moving in this foul smelling place.

"I for one am not crossing over. I don't want that crap on my boots. Smell would probably never come out. As far as I'm concerned we're committed to this way.

Without another word Tempus pushes on in the southerly direction scanning the tunnel before him for traps and side pipes that more goblins or worse could spring from.

Tempus Edwyn rolled 21 using 1d20+6. perception.

The group continues on, turning the corner and finds the path once again heads east but Tempus notices something protruding from the water and stops the group momentarily. The tunnel seems to continue on for quite a ways from here though there seems to be a light source up ahead, either from a street grate, or otherwise about 60 feet away.

Tempus quickly held up his hand to stop the little troop from proceeding. He could see a light ahead so he quickly held his hand over his own magically lit torch. He couldn't block the light but he could shutter it somewhat from anyone ahead who could possibly see it. He looked to the dwarf at his side and those behind him and nodded his head for them to come closer as he crouched down, holding the light before him to illuminate what appeared to be the remains of a hand sticking out of the rancid water. More importantly, he ran the light along a fine tripwire crossing the path that was keeping the hand from flowing away with the current.

"Well I'd say we chose the right way." Tempus said quietly. "I've never known people to lay traps in unused passages. Kinda unnecessary. The hand stuck on it obviously came from upstream which means there could be more traps ahead as well. Should I disarm this or do you think you all can step over it without possibly bringing the tunnel down on our heads?" Tempus said the last with a smile but he wasn't entirely joking.

While he waited for the others to let him know what they wanted him to do Tempus began to inspect the water and tunnel path on the other side of the tripwire. It wasn't unknown for a tripwire to be an actual diversion for the unsuspecting to step over, stepping on and setting off the real trap. Plus he just might be able to detect what the tripwire might actually have been set to set off.

Tempus Edwyn rolled 11 using 1d20+6. perception.

PM

Gren waited for Taron to make sure the trap wasn't just a distraction from a secondary trap.  "Are you sure it is a trap and not a fishing line?" he asked wondering what other creatures were lurking down here besides goblins and assassins.

If Tempus says it's alright, Dale will step over the line.  He stays near Tempus in case they get attacked again.  Keeping his voice low, he says, "You know, the Guild may not even hide down here but are instead protecting access to a building above.  We should keep an eye out for any trapdoors, too."

Tempus looked at Gren with a look that just said "shut up". "Fishing? Really? You eat fish that came out of shit lake where you're from do you? Remind me to pick you some mint weed next time I'm out in the woods. You're breath has got to be an issue. Stay in back of the line, ok?"

Tempus turned his attention to Dale and the others.

"The tripwire leads into the wall there. You see that seam in the stone of the tunnel running up to the ceiling? One of you fellas with better nightvision then me wanna take a look at it and tell me what you see? The light up ahead could indeed come from a room above as Dale suggests and the trap would indicate something or someone of value there. I'd like to get there alive first though and not shake hands with the fellow who left his behind."

 Followin near the rear of the pack, Taron takes halt with the others when the Ranger asks. Getting close so to hear what's going on, he constantly keeps looking to the rear. Any trap in front could lead to something slipping in from behind.

 Tarons inexperience in the world is bothering him. He has no idea in the way people go to extremes to hide and protect themselves. He would never have thought the way Dale and Tempus evaluated the trip wire. He figures he better get his skills together and start paying more attention to the others. He has a lot to learn, he should be use to that thought, Cayson told him that often.

 " I for one don't think getting there alive is solid advice, let's go with that idea. "

Nori looked in the direction Tempus suggested and studied the tripwire, "If ya can disable tha thing, do it. Might b'easy ta step ovah it now, but if we gonna be rushin back through 'ere, might set it off if we fo'get." With traps there was a lot of "what ifs" involved and there was no point in second guessing everything. "Yo're da trap expert. Go wit yo're gut and decide quick. We can't stay still too long."

Tempus needed someone with darkvision to look, so Nori did. Although he was a bit reluctant to do so, half expecting a spike or something horrible smashing into his face.

01:46, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 13 using 1d20+6. perception (darkvision).
This message was last edited by the player at 06:46, Fri 20 Apr 2012.

PM

Gren resisted tossing Tempus into the muck, and retreated to the back of the line for now.  Nori had a set of eyes that pierced the darkness just as well as Gren's.  I'm all for a little verbal beratting now and then, but another crack like that and I'm going to pick him up by the ankles and give him a few kicks to the head, thought Gren.  Afterall, a Half-Ogre was still half ogre.

Feeling useless at the moment, Erasmus edges his way to the back of the party.  He knew little of sewers, fishing, traps, and the sort of people or things that used any of those things underground.  So instead he kept an eye open for any strange sounds coming up from behind them.

Nori scoffed at what he saw and grinned ruefully towards Tempus, "Man, an der piss poor attempts at stonework. Yer lucky I'm 'ere." He stepped away from the tripwire to allow Tempus to work with space."Der be nother wall on deh other side of dis one. Decide whatcha gonna do wit dat tripwire so we can look for da proppa switch for da entrance."

He explained the best he could about the wall on the other side of this one and how the trip wire was more than likely a trap to deter anyone who got to close to search for the switch of the secret entrance.

"I love secret entrances!" Dale exclaims.  "I'm helping."  Once Tempus clears away the tripwire, Dale squats down carefully to see if the trigger is along the floor of the sewer.

Perception: nat 1... sad...

"Well then, that decides that." Tempus said, immediately turning to the task of disarming the trap.

Tempus Edwyn rolled 21 using 1d20+8. Disable Device.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:47, Sat 21 Apr 2012.

  Taron decided that he was out of his league when it came to this trap stuff. He decided caution was the better part of valor. Nori's comment of a fake wall hiding another was about all he needed to hear. "Looks like I'll be leaving ya's to what you do. I'm no help here." Taron grinned at the guys up front and followed Gren and the Holy Man called Eramus to the back of the line.

Tempus leans down and carefully keeps the pressure on the right side while he ties it off and disarms the trap. He still is unable to figure out what the intended effect of the trap is when he looks up and sees a gab in the ceiling that houses a spiked ball on a set of rapes, set to swing down and maim anyone unlucky enough to be in its trajectory.

As the group passes the trap, Nori finds one stone of the wall they are facing to have a stone that looks loose and, upon messing with it for a moment, it slides in a bit and the wall they had inspected slides, a bit noisily, to one side, revealing a dark room inside. Those with dark vision can see that there are multiple sonces on the walls where torches could be placed though none are there now. Also, there is a small passage to the south that looks like it runs parallel with the tunnel they just came up. As the door moves however, the light farther down the hallway goes out.

Actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:44, Sat 21 Apr 2012.

Not having dark vision and not wanting to blindly stumble into anything, as soon as Tempus sees the light down the tunnel go out he tosses the magically lit torch he carries into the new opening to light it up, and to hide it's illumination from whatever dowsed the light farther down. There was nowhere to hide in the tunnel itself so it was either move ahead or stand and fight from his perspective.

"I think companies coming. Form a skirmish line here or move on?"

While he waits for an answer Tempus moves to the wall by the new opening to place it at his back, carefully stepping back over the tripwire. If push comes to shove and the opening presents itself, Tempus intends to set off the trap on whoever or whatever may approach them...

"We'll give it a few minutes, but I don't want to end up in some out-of-sight stalemate.  We knew we'd end up in a fight."

I thought you were supposed to find out if they tried to kill the old guy?

"And then question the survivors."

"There is no telling what lies beyond the wall.  I would rather not have enemies both in front of and behind," said Gren, as if pointing out what should have been obvious.  He shuffled some weapons about in his hands and looked off down the darkened tunnel to see if anyone was actually coming their way.

  Not having the gift of night sight like the Gren or Noli, the mere human monk moves to the wall that was and the illumination of the tossed torch. Also putting the rock to his back. If they were gonna wait he was at least going to be able to see. Facing the room he watches the passage, leaving the sewer to those better suited for the dark.

"Might have been another door closing when this one opened." Erasmus whispers, though he grips his quarterstaff a bit more tightly.  Not knowing much of how these underground organizations worked, Erasmus found himself growing somewhat paranoid and began looking around in earnest.  He supposed the light winking out when the door opened might be some sort of distraction, to allow others to creep up behind them.  Even though such coordination was unlikely with any but the most practiced individuals, he couldn't help be direct his attention to their surroundings to listen for such a ruse.

Nori gripped his hammer tightly and kept his eyes trained at the direction the lights went out when they entered. He squatted lower than usual, prepared to dash forward or jump back if needed. Normally he would have rushed forward and attacked no matter how many enemies were before him, however this time he was dealing with cunning thieves who had traps laying all over the place.

Nori shuffled to the front of the line as Tempus directed and whispered without looking away, "We can't stay 'ere an wait for em. Dis be der lair and dey can be callin for 'elp the more we wait. I say we charge a'ead." It was likely going to hurt but the more time they spent waiting the more chances the thieves could prepare worse things for the group.

As the group quickly and quietly, or so they think, discuss their course of action, they can hear two sets of footsteps quickly fading down the tunnel in the opposite direction as they get quieter and quieter until the sound of water overshadows them. The thrown torch illuminates the room and part of the small passageway leaden east. Also inside the room, against the opposite side of the wall of their tunnel, is a small rack of weapons, sized similarly to the ones that the goblins were using in their fight earlier. In fact, now that the door has been open for a few extra moments, their smell seems to begin to ooze out of the room as well.

"Sounds like they are on to us," Gren whispers tot he others.  Which meant the theives were going to be even harder to find now, or that they'll be back with reinforcements.  Gren strides over to the weapon rack.  "I'm starting to believe more and more that the goblins and the theives are indeed working together.  Shall we keep these here," he says motioning to the rack of weapons. "Or shall I toss them into the sewage?"

"I vote sewage, then let's get a move on.  They've got a head-start on us now."  Dale switches his sword to his left hand and draws his crossbow with his right.  This way, he can fire the crossbow, drop it, and use the sword and his magic as quickly as possible.  Then, careful to avoid the tripwire, Dale sets off down the tunnel.

"Toss them in." Erasmus agrees, somewhat distractedly as he continues looking out for things lurking in the dark.  "Let's move into the room, shall we?  I don't like being so close to the sewage."

Gren did a quick casting to make sure none of the weapons on the rack radiated magic.  He gathered as many mundane ones as he could carry and stepped out into the tunnel.  He dumped them into the sewer water with a splash.  When he turned around it seemed as if each of the party members had a different idea of where they should go.  Some stepped into the room, and others further down the tunnel.  Gren stood there a bit perplexed.

  Taron doesn't remember his mother. And his father, although a great provider, was never around. He was raised by the Monks of the Rat'zei monastery. And he didn't figure they raised a fool. "Gentlemen, it seems to me we've been had. The tunnel or the sewer matter's not now. Our presense is known. My bet is right now we can pass as busy bodies who were just curious and headed into the sewers out of pure curiosity. And we head out now and out of realization we made an oops. Or you can follow Dale down that tunnel, possibly continue down the sewer. Two choices to make. Choose well. Taron looks at Gren first and then at the rest of the group. " Whatever your choice I bid you well, I choose to return top side. Seems looking at the surviving memebrs of the election, might find more information than to continue on in a den of theives and gobllins, full of trtaps that know were coming."

Tempus slowly shook his head. Again. Unless Dale's sword could see in the dark as well as talk, what the hell was he doing heading down the tunnel without the dwarf or ogre leading? At least they could see in the dark. And the priest wanted to move into a room obviously often frequented by goblins, with another tunnel accessing it where they could spring from any second, because he was leery of sewage? What the hell did he think they were going to find in a sewer? Meatloaf?

Tempus' estimation of the ogre's intellect went up considerably. Well not really. He was just beginning to think that much less of the others. At least the dwarf had placed himself in a position of defense as he himself had. Maybe the monk was right. Discretion was the better part of something or some such horseshit some old proverb or something said, right? Isn't that what monks did instead of chasing women? Study proverbs? That had to count for something, right?

Not that Tempus intended to follow the monk. He'd thrown his torch into the room to make sure nothing lurked out of his sight, and he wasn't going anywhere blind.

"Ya won't get ten feet in the dark if we get attacked, Taron. Best to stay with the group and the dwarf and ogre for now. They can see. We can run screaming like frightened wenches soon enough. I do a pretty good falsetto myself and would be happy to join you. That should be a last resort for now though. 'Less the dwarf or ogre want to join us? I bet the ogre can really scream like a bitch with lungs that size."

OK, so humor was inappropriate, but Tempus wasn't known for tact and so far the ogre and dwarf had been good sports about his jests.

Gren dumps the weapons into the water, careful to make sure he didn't lose any of his own.  As he walked back towards the opening of the recently revealed room, he reaches out with a giant hand to grab Tempus by the collar.  He attempted to lift him up and pin him to the wall.  "While I'm all for friendly jesting, there are some lines you don't cross when talking to or about a half-ogre.  Mocking my courage is one of those lines."  The glare he gave the human, told him he had just about had enough.

Initiative = 12, Grapple CMB = 19
This message was last edited by the player at 16:38, Wed 25 Apr 2012.

Dale doesn't get far into the tunnel before more squabbling breaks out.  "Ladies, that's enough," he yells at them.  "Comin' or goin', they know we're here.  Leave the fighting to the goblins and thieves, yah?"

He sets down his crossbow long enough to pick up a couple of stones and cast light on them.  He pockets one and tosses the other toward Taron.  "Now no one's stopping you if you want to leave."

Tempus Edwyn had once been a peaceful man, but he had always been a man of action. Those days had passed with his Marrisa. Now he was a creature of instinct and anger and hatred for the gods and a world that would have allowed her to die the way she had. He had lived since her death hunting the dregs of society or anything else that may prove good enough to end his misery, but he'd failed to find it yet. What he had found though was a relentless drive to lash out at the smallest of provocations. The ogre, had he had half a brain would have realized that after witnessing Tempus' relentless pursuit of the goblins earlier.

After the initial surprise Tempus reacted just as he always did when attacked. He attacked back. With the same lethal intent he always craved from his opponents. It didn't even take thought to raise his sword and try to thrust it through the ogre's gut. It was an ingrained action by this time, and he was an ogre, half or not!




Tempus Edwyn rolled 18 using 1d20+7. Initiative.
Tempus Edwyn rolled 14 using 1d20+4. attack long sword.
Tempus Edwyn rolled 6 using 1d8+4. damage.

For the second time in only a short period, Gren feels cold steel slide into his body, this time from a supposed ally. The pain is sharp and anguishing but, for the moment, Gren still has hold of the sell-sword though yet another section of his clothing begins to stain with blood.

Erasmus turns at the scuffle, when he doesn't see any enemies he lights up his staff to get a better look at what's going on.  "Someone break them up!" he calls out.  He was inclined to interpose himself, but he didn't believe he would do more than get in the way of someone more capable of stopping them.

---

Initiative: 6
Standard: Cast Light on his staff
Move: Move over to where they're fighting.

16:05, Today: Erasmus rolled 6 using 1d20-2. initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:08, Wed 25 Apr 2012.

Nori looked over his shoulder and growled at the squabbling party members,"Put im down, giant. Not da place to 'old a grudge match. Once we get to da top, feel free to pound each oth..." He couldn't even finish his sentence before Tempus ran his sword through Gren's stomach.

He jumped between the two and tried to use his powerful arms to pry the two apart, he only hoped the giant didn't rip the man's throat out.

"Bah! You simple minded fools! Kill each other here and the lil green skins will feast on your corpses."

16:04, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 3 using 1d20+2. initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Wed 25 Apr 2012.

Gren's look of anger turned to a look of confusion as he felt the pain in his stomach and the flow of his blood once more soaking into his shirt.  "Why?" he asked, pained and perplexed.  He readjusted his weight to pin Tempus to the wall with his shoulder.  He hands then reached out to grab Tempus's hands to keep from being stabbed again.  Gren bellowed, "This human has gone mad!  He attempts to kill me.  I will not release him until he is bound!  Nori my rope!"  The dwarf obviously didn't understand what was going on.  Tempus was not of the character they thought him to be.  Goblins were not the only enemies in these sewers.

Since Tempus made no move to escape or gain control of the grapple I assume Gren is still in charge?  Gren pins Tempus.

Nori jumps on the pinned human along with the half-ogre and wrestles the weapon free from his hand. He didn't wish to take sides in this but he also didn't want to see anyone dead from a small altercation such as this.

When he felt he had a good grip on Tempus and the blade was far from his reach, Nori attempted to nudge Gren away, "Let 'im go, Gren. 'ave the priest tend to da wound 'fore ya bleed all over us." If Gren did as he said and moved away, Nori would then address Tempus, if not, he would stay silent until Gren moved.


17:10, Today: Secret Roll: Nori Hammerfist rolled 9,24 using d20+4,d20+4. grapple; disarm.

GM gave the ok for the auto success as Tempus is immobilized. Wasted a good crit on the disarm.

Sorry about the secret roll, wasn't exactly sure what I was doing so I needed GM approval first.

This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Wed 25 Apr 2012.

"Are you kidding?" he asked the dwarf, with a look of shock on his face.  "This man just tried to kill me.  He is either mad or he is working with the very theives we seek.  If someone just stabbed you in the gut would you just let him go?  He's lucky his head is still firmly attached to his shoulders.  If not dead, I'll at least see him turned over to the city watch.  I surely can't trust to have him at my side down here in these conditions."

Nori did not wish to argue with the giant, they did not have time for this, "Ya put yor 'and on da man first. Ee reacted as anyone would wen someone twice 'is size picked im up. 'ard to tell wen someone wants to just scare ya or crush your windpipe wen ee dont know ya."

Perhaps if they were old friends or at least had adventured before, things would not have gotten out of hand so quick. They were all strangers to one another and Tempus took any sign of aggression as a danger to his life. Not so far fetched when someone as huge as Gren came at you.

"Ya can turn 'im in wen we get up top, or kill im. Just not now...so move away!"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:29, Thu 26 Apr 2012.

OOC: Current situations and placements as they stand:

Gren: Pinning Tempus to the Sewer Wall
Tempus: Sword in Gren's gut and still in his hand
Nori: Attempting to break the two up but not able to join grapple first round
Erasmus: Casing light and shouting for someone to stop the two
Dale: Holding position in the tunnel, watching for ambush
Taron: Currently a spectator waiting to act

(Tempus is up against the wall. That row is normally unavailable to stand on. The tripwire is to their right and the torch with light cast on it is in the smaller room.)



Initiative

Tempus: 18
Gren: 12
Erasmus: 6
Dale: 6
Taron: 6
Nori: 3
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:30, Fri 27 Apr 2012.

NOTE: Taron's initiative will in no way affect this. Should his initiative end up higher than mine and he choose his character joins the crowd and tries to grapple Tempus, only one roll to break the grapple condition is needed in any case, despite how many people have achieved a grapple. So if he whines like a little bitch that I rolled his initiative, ignore him. LOL. Actually, if I ever fall behind a bit I'm sure he will roll for me also. One of the advantages/disadvantages of having family in a game.  :)

Tempus Edwyn had once been a peaceful man. Now he only remembered that when the memories of his wife came to the fore. Since her loss he had been nothing but an angry aggressive son-of-a-bitch!  Tempus would fight at the drop of a hat. He would fight as dirty and as low as the situation dictated. The good man who had witnessed his wife's murder had long since ceased to exist. Instinct was the deciding factor for this man now. When he was attacked he attacked back. Harder.

Tempus had no desire to live without his Marrisa, but he had a survival instinct that refused to be denied. When he was attacked by the ogre he reacted without thought. It was who he was. When he found himself pinned to the wall surrender never crossed his mind. Only escape came to mind. The primal need for freedom. There was no way to bring his sword back into play the way Tempus was held or Gren would have felt his steel again. Mercy had been a foreign concept to Tempus since Marrisa's violent, ugly death. But while there was breath in him Tempus would fight!

"Get off me you big ugly bastard, or I'll take your head from your shoulders!" Tempus growled as he tried to break free from the half-ogre's grip. He had heard the dwarf's rebuking of the ogre for laying his hands on him, but his temper was now fully in control. Rationality was close to being an impossible condition to obtain. "And any other bastard that thinks to lay their hands on me can expect to have their skull lying next to the shit sandwich eating bastards head in the sewage as well"

Accidently made it a secret roll, but GM can confirm this...
Tempus Edwyn rolled 19 using 1d20+4. (escapegrapple).

Gren really had no other choice than to climb off the man.  If the other's weren't willing to help tie up the raging Tempus then it was only a matter of time before Gren's limbs grew weak from blood loss and Tempus escaped his grasp.  Gren retreated back behind the priest.  His right hand fumbled to get to the club tied at his hip.  His left was pressed firmly against his gut in an attempt to staunch the wound.

There was dishonor here, and a definate lack of glory.  All Gren could think about was that there would now be two humans who nearly killed him walking around town as free men.  Gren had come to the city thinking life would be easier and more survivable than out in the wilderness.  The city was proving that theory wrong.

When the in-fighting started, Dale just thought they were going to shout and maybe shove each other a bit, and it would be over.  Once Tempus pulls a weapon, though, Dale drops his crossbow and bolts towards him.  Dale really, really didn't want to get in the middle of this sort of brawl, but he also didn't want to go through the sewers alone.

Luckily, Gren appears to be backing off a bit.  Dale tries to get Tempus to let go of his sword and let Nori pull a bleeding Gren out of the way.

Move action to M15.  15 CMB check to disarm Tempus.  Provokes AO.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:46, Fri 27 Apr 2012.

Erasmus makes sure to place himself between Gren and Tempus, he figured now that the half-ogre had unhanded him the man wouldn't pursue the matter further, but then again he didn't expect Tempus would just outright stab a companion like that.  He reminded himself that he didn't see the whole thing go down, but the whole situation was a stark reminder to him that these men were strangers, not well known friends, and he was still prone to misjudging them.  Turning to Gren, he sighed when he saw the wound and channeled the last miracle Sarenrae had promised him--the ability understand all who spoke to him--into healing energy.  Who his Goddess favored was clear, as once again the divine light flowed freely through him and closed all of the mage's wounds.

---

Standard: Cast Cure Light Wounds on Gren for 9 hp.
Move: Move to ensure he is between Gren and Tempus.

14:10, Today: Erasmus rolled 9 using 1d8+1. Cure Light Wounds -> Gren.

As Tempus twisted free and Gren backed off Tempus started to relax a little. Tempus had no idea what the ogre had expected putting his hands on him that way, but Tempus wouldn't abide aggression toward himself by anyone. Normally Tempus would have pressed the issue, but down here in the sewers Gren was supposed to be an ally. Attacking him as he did he obviously wasn't an ally to be trusted but as the old saying went, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" so Tempus was prepared to let it ago unless the ogre wanted to pursue it. Now or later. Just then however Dale moved in in an attempt to disarm Tempus. ~Have they all lost their damn minds? Do they have death wishes?~

Swinging with his offhand(left), Tempus attempted to backhand Dale away from him. "Blood is gonna ruin your fancy clothes, damn it! BACK OFF!"

Tempus Edwyn rolled 15 using 1d20+4. AoO backhand.

  Watchin the spectacle between his two new 'comrades Taron shows total indifference, He continues into the room and picks up the magical lite torch. He knows he should follow his instinct and head out of the sewer but first his curiosity was getting him.

  He reaches the opening at the other side if the room and slowly looks around the corner. The others can play with each other if they wish. But he had no plans of getting hit from behind again.

Nori was about to jump in between Tempus and Gren but saw that the two seperated before things escalated. Luckily the healer had been quick to patch Gren up again, but Nori was not happy that the fools were wasting his spells because they couldn't get along.

He spoke low and gruffly towards the two, "Quit it ya idjuts! Kill each otha wen yur above ground, not 'ere." He saw enough of the group trying to break up the pair and decided to move forward with Taron, there were still enemies about and they knew full well that they were there.

He whispered in the monk's direction, "I dont like dis. We been found out and dees fools are killin each otha. We can call dis off and try anotha lead?"

The entire scenario only took a handful of seconds to conspire but in the blink of an eye, the party seemed divided with eyes being cast at both Gren and Taron alike. With there being an ominous silence between the group as the various members stare each other down, you suddenly can hear a loud scraping of stone coming from down the tunnel where whoever was there had run off to. Likewise, you hear noises coming from down the tunnel of the small room the group opened up.

"Looks like the choice is out of our hands now." Dale quickly retrieves his crossbow, readying it to fire at whoever pops out first.  With Nori and Taron covering the inside of the room, Dale moves to the corner of the tunnel.

Dale moves to K15.

Back against the wall, one hand rubbing his chest and rearranging his clothes from where Gran had grabbed him the other still firmly grasping his sword, Tempus keeps his eyes on the half-ogre should he try anything else, "I don't take kindly to being threatened. That goes for any of you. Lay your hands on me without intention of helping me and your fates will be the same. I've had too many brushes with false friends to put up with that horse shit." With that, Tempus sheathes his sword angrily and stands, arms crossed in front of the group.

Nori half responded to the angry member of the group as other noises had most of his attention, "Aye aye, sounds good. We can kiss an make up later, for now les try to get outa 'ere alive."

He readied his weapon, this time he would be sure to stay at the front lines of this fight.


OOC:Gonna move to the are closest to the room without actually stepping into the room. No point in giving anything with range a free shot.

Gren stepped into the room and started trying to figure out if it was possible to shut the door once more.  He wished he had an iron spike to jam it shut, but he didn't.  He could drag the weapons rack over, pour lamp oil over it, and set it ablaze.  That would at least buy time so they weren't attacked on two different fronts at once.

Gren paid no further attention to Tempus.  He was careful in his manuverings, however, to keep Tempus from ever being behind him.  A sword to the back was even harder to react to.  "Pick where you wish to be quickly.  Battle in the sewers or battle in the room.  I prefer not to flanked."

Still standing in the room, as Gren comes in and starts looking for ways to close or block the door, Taron takes a look around the room to see if there is a switch on this side that would allow them to close the door, "Might be in our best interests to isolate ourselves for a moment. If we can find a way to close and open this door, perhaps we can get the element of surprise on anyone who tries to pursue us?"


19:02, Today: Taron Bein rolled 7 using 1d20+6. Perception.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:02, Thu 03 May 2012.

"I'd wager the scraping sound was another door.  We should go that way I think." Erasmus says, speaking quietly.  He wasn't happy about what had just happened, and it's lack of resolution didn't bode well for the future.  But circumstance conspired against them, so he would just have to watch his back around Tempus.

As the group discusses their plan of action or defense, the choice is taken from them as the grinding sound of stone is accompanied by another, more ominous sound; a soft sound that is hard to make out or distinguish though it begins to grow in volume and those that are still in the tunnel can see the water level rising alarmingly quick as the grinding suddenly stops and the other sound becomes more distinct; the sound of rushing water. A lot of it.

Still looking for a way to shut the door, Gren called out to Taron.  "Taron what is down there?" he asked in reference to the tunnel in the back of the room.  If it were a dead end, then shutting themselves in the room may not be the best choice.

"That's a bad sound," Dale says and bolts for the back room.  "Get in, close the door.  Get in, close the door!"  Even though others are already doing so, Dale looks around for whatever mechanism closes the stupid door that will save him from the stupid sewer.

Perception: 7.  These rolls are not helping me.

Taron busies himself with helping Dale search for a way to close the door, his movements a little bit frantic though definitely aimed towards a goal.


02:27, Today: Taron Bein rolled 15 using 1d20+5. Perception to aid Dale.
+2 to Dale's check.

Tempus grudgingly joins the rest of the party members that have entered the room and goes to look down the tunnel, "Whatever you're going to do, I suggest you do it fast. We may have a problem here in short order." His words are marked by the glow of light down at the end of the tunnel where it turns a corner.

PM

"Rock foot pedal," Dale yells and points to the base of the door where it meets the wall.  What eloquence he has tends to disappear in times of stress.  "Is everyone in?"  He checks briefly and steps as hard as he can on the pedal.

Nori was close to the entrance when all hell broke loose. Not really wishing to take a bath in the disgusting water, he made sure he was in the room as Dale called out.

He did not enjoy being trapped in a room but at this point there was not really a choice in the matter.

Dale seemed to have spotted the trigger to shut the door.  Gren didn't wait to see if it worked or not.  There was only one direction to go now.  He headed towards the exit at the back of the room, club in hand.

Erasmus shuffles in, both pleased to no longer have to watch their backs, but also concerned by the cutting off of their escape.  He briefly wondered if anyone would be curious about the increased flow of water and sewage leaving the pipe they entered, but if people weren't even aware of the goblins or the spear trap, there would be no chance that would pay much mind to water pouring out of a pipe that's out of all their line of sight.

Once inside the chamber, he re-casts his light enchantment, illuminating his staff.  He was no longer content to allow others to carry Sarenrae's light.

As Dale pushes down on the rock pedal, the door begins to slowly grind closed much in the same fashion as it opened not but minutes before. The door gets about halfway closed before the source of the ever growing rushing noise presents itself to those with dark vision and lowlight vision...and it is not a pleasant sight. No more than 60 feet away is a wall of sewage water the reaches up the ceiling rushing quickly in the group's current direction. It seems that the goblins and Thieves Guild employ the same tactics though you would guess the Thieves Guild's version kills more intruders. The water gets closer and the door continues to close and it becomes a race to which will happen first. Luckily for the group inside, but unluckily for Tempus, the door shuts just as the wall of water hits, sending a spurt of filthy water right into the ranger's face before it is cut off by the door's closing.

Dale cringes when we realizes that Tempus didn't make it and mutters a quiet "sorry" to himself and whatever gods are listening.  He can hear the mass of water pounding on the other side of the door.  While it seems unlikely that the thieves would build a door that couldn't withstand their own trap, Dale decides that he would rather not stick around.  He looks behind him and sees Gren headed down the tunnel on the other side of the room.  He checks that his crossbow is still in one hand and his sword in the other and quickly follows.

Tempus takes one hand and slowly wipes the file from his face. Looking to Dale, he shakes his head and quietly walks to the back of the cave where the tunnel is, "Guess this is our only way out now. That or wait till the water outside subsides, if it does." Taking a moment to get his bearings, he looks back up to the group with a sigh, "If I'm not mistaken, this tunnel leads back the way we came. At least until it curves off. Then it's anyone's guess. Shall we get underway?"

Taron nods to Tempus, "I'll be right behind you."  His voice confidence was clearly waning as he had barely managed to take down one Goblin while the others had fared much better in that last fight.  I'm in way over my head here.  Maybe Brother Cayson was right.. I'm not ready for this yet.  Goblins, flooding, infighting.  Who knows which one of us will be the next to die?  He stepped back from the tunnel to let the others go first, always on the alert for any of those grinding sounds that belie a secret passage opening or closing like the one they'd just come through.

With Taron and Tempus at the front, Nori was torn as to where to go. He obviously wished to be near the head of the line in case another fight began, but after being ambushed like the last time, bringing up the rear of the line would keep the casters safe as well. He brought his hammer to his chest and looked over at the others, "Aye will stay at da back. Dale, you in front of me and we can keep da healer and da giant in the middle. We should move."

Gren simply nodded.  So long as Tempus wasn't at his back he was fine with the marching order.  Still, he watched the ranger closely.  Tempus may be more reluctant to point out a trap should he spot one.  Gren continued to wonder if perhaps Tempus was in league with the thieves.

As the group lines back up as the enter the tunnel, the noise of the sewage flowing from the other side of the wall begins to fade. Up until the curve, the tunnel is about fifty feet and at the 'go-ahead' from Tempus on the note of traps, they turn the corner to find themselves in a room with a ladder leading up through a tube, likely to a cellar or drainage ditch in the city above. The room is only about twenty feet by twenty feet with another similar tunnel leading West once again.

The oddity is that two others, seemingly oblivious to their presence, are already inside, looking around as if somewhat lost. One of them wears little more than a simple traveling outfit though looks to share his heritage with that of the recently deceased Vivo and the other a human in a gleaming set of chain mail with a small steel shield and a scimitar at his hip. The both seem to be looking down the other tunnel and the armored figure stoops down a little at the entrance and sticks his torch in a little to get a better view.

Actions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:11, Thu 10 May 2012.

Taron nudges carefully at Tempus' shoulder to get his attention before leaning in and whispering quietly, "We may outnumber these fellows but let us avoid fighting whenever possible.  The way things have been going I don't think violence will serve us well until we know a bit more about the situation."  He was reluctant to get that little jab in about not resorting to violence considering that Tempus' temper was quite likely running hot after that little altercation, but still, he was eager to see the light of day again and avoiding any more actual fights seemed to be the key to that.  It's not cowardice, it's prudence... he told himself, though that didn't necessarily make it true.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:10, Thu 10 May 2012.

Quietly drawing his longsword, Tempus enters the room with his back to the wall and lets the next two members of the party exit before calling out cautiously to the duo, "Who the hell are you two? You don't look like thieves guild members to me nor do you look like goblins and those are the only two things I've seen in this shit hole so far." His longsword not pointed outstretched but more aimed at the ground in front of him, ready for danger, Tempus tries to present a nonthreatening pose while still warning that he's ready for any sort of trickery the two have up their sleeves.

Jarroz doesn't quite fit the bill for a typical half-orc. The only traits that betray his heritage are his unusual height, Jarroz stands about six foot three inches off the ground, and his unusually sharp teeth. Onlookers often mistake him for human however due to his fair skin and appearance. His rich blonde hair is often left to the whims of the gods, though he keeps his facial hair neatly. He wears loose fitting green robes that have faded from exposure and time.

Jarroz walks with the confidence of a man who believes that he can achieve any end which he sets out to meet. Tattooed on the back of his neck and down his back is the symbol of his clan, The Order of the Sun and Moon. A large and flowing portrait of a pure white dragon swallowing the tail of a golden dragon and vice versa in the symbol of infinity. Though it is often hidden from plain sight, the symbol is renowned for its connection to some of the greatest and most skilled bounty hunters in the land.
-----

Jarroz stood slowly at the sound of Tempus' blade being drawn. "_{We have visitors.} ", he said under his breath to Wilem, tapping him gently on the shoulder as he turned to face the man. "I might ask you the same question. Though I think that we won't have long to wait, situations such as these often have a way of sorting themselves out rather quickly. ", he replied to Tempus' question.

Placing a hand out to show that he wasn't going to try anything funny he grabbed a scroll from the sash at his belt and unfurled it, "Be you Dalinar, Nori, Erasmus, Tempus, or Taron? ". Jarroz spoke quickly but clearly as he read off the names on his scroll.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:48, Thu 10 May 2012.

"And Gren Boarshead," Gren said as he stepped into the light.  Gren recognized the voice and the face, but could quite remember the name of the half-orc.  Gren stepped forward and offerred his hand.

Wilem turned a Jarroz's words. Though he was surprised, he didn't let it show. This task had just become a whole lot easier.

"Well met, Gren." He said politely, holding his torch aloft so all could see clearly. His impressive height helped in times like this. But not usually when exploring sewer tunnels. "I'm Wilem. This is Jarroz. We were sent to ensure the job had been completed. Have you been successful?" His tone was pleasant, but there was a tension veiled in his voice. Something had him on edge.

Nori snorted at the comment, he wasn't about to move forward yet as he wasn't positive if these were friends or foes. He kept watch over his shoulder, making sure none of the two new adventurers' "friends" came up behind them. He began to wonder if he made a huge mistake joining this group, half-orcs and half-orges seemed to be abundant in this city.

"We ain't dead if ya wanna call dat successful, but dats 'bout good as it gets." Then he remembered the casualty, "Well..not fir all of us."

Jarroz greeted Gren with an enthusiastic handshake before bringing him closer and patting him on the back. "How are you! It feels like it's been ages since I've seen you. And now we meet once more, I hope none of those orcs are bothering you again, though I don't picture their like hanging out in the sewers much. But never mind that, how are you? ", Jarroz said heartily.

"Dale, not Dalinar, please," Dales says vaguely as he waves roughly in Wilem's direction.  He's clearly a little thrown by the friendliness Gren is showing to the... really tall guy.

Paladin, James says in Dale's head.

"What?"

Where'd they come from?

"Right.  Did you guys just come from up there?"  Dale points up the ladder.  "If so, then it looks like we have just the one direction to go."

Gren grasped Jarroz's forearm in greeting.  Gren's usual distrust of half-orcs seemed almost non-existant in regards to this one.  "I've really stepped in drit this time.  The sewers are crawling with goblins, theives, and all sorts of nasty traps," he replies.  He then leaned in closer so only Jarroz could hear what he said next. 

"And who is this?  Do you vouch for him?" Gren asked, taking a step back and giving Wilem a once over.

Taron steps forward as well, but not so far as Gren and Dale, staying roughly halfway between those two and Tempus and Nori behind him.  He nods respectfully to the newcomers, "Taron Bein of the Sacred Mountain.  Glad to see some friendly faces down here.  Our mission has been going.. well.. less than spectacular."  He stepped off to one side, placing his back to a wall to be as unobtrusive as possible, not to mention watching out for any sudden hostilities.

The look on Jarroz' face was one of confusion as he stepped back and it returned to normal with a nod at gren, "I do vouch for him. From what I have seen Wilem is an exemplar of honor and the good deity Sarenrae. "

He gestures towards Dale with his hand. "Forgive me Dale, i'll try to remember it like that. ", he said calmly before glancing around at the rest of the group, "I believe that Dale is right. There is nothing of importance from the way we came and we were just about to head down that direction in any case. "

Tempus doesn't sheathe he sword but lowers it to a nonthreatening position. Never know if the goblins would be around and he would need it after all. "The name's Tempus Edwyn and I figure the more the merrier, might as well continue along our path. Shall we?"

Erasmus relaxed once he saw the armored man was wearing Sarenrae's symbol openly.  The possibility that this was a ruse by some disguised members of the thieves guild dropped dramatically once Gren recognized Jarroz, and the half-orc had vouched for the man.  Still, in this setting one couldn't be too careful.  So he steps forward to introduce himself to Wilhelm.  "I am Erasmus, I serve her radiance.  You are also among the faithful?" he asks rhetorically, by way of introduction.  "I noticed the symbol you wear.  Are you among the laity or a member of an order?" he asks, throwing in a few shibboleths to see if the man responds appropriately.

"Yes brother. Her radiance guides my steps." He replied to the priest. "I was called to service, but not to priesthood. My skills mark me to serve in the Militant Orders."

As the group determined to press on, Wilem drew his sword with a steely rasp. "The Guild like to riddle their streets with traps and pitfalls." The paladin said, speaking from a place of apparent experience. "Those of you with a sharp eye would do well to keep a lookout."

Nori was getting impatient, they were taking too long exchanging pleasantries, "Oi, we gotta move. Tempus as lead, asn't led us wrong yet wit da traps." He looked at the two newcomers and nodded his greeting. One seemed to know his way with a sword while the other was a monk like Taron, good to have in close combat.

He took a look over his shoulder once more before taking a step forward, "Monk stick wit monk near da front. Wilem, could use yur blade up front or you can stick wit Erasmus and stay in da middle. Ya can provide support ta front or back where needed."

Taking the lead but still keeping to the outside of the room as he circles the new comers, "I'm with the dwarf, let's get this job over with. The smell is starting to seep into my clothing I think..." He moves into the tunnel with our without the rest.

Gren nodded.  He didn't even want to be in the sewers in the first place.  With more melee fighters in the group, he once again switched to a javelin.  "Let us find this assassin."

Having snapped out of his daze, Dale smiles politely at Wilem and takes his place next to Taron behind Tempus and Jarroz.  Likely that the sharp-eyed... orc?... would see any traps before Dale himself would.  He also feels better with the large sorcerer and solid dwarf behind him.

The group being a bit large now, keeping quiet seemed more of a joke than anything. As they tramp, hunched over, down the tunnel, a light appears around another corner. Tempus checks for traps but finds none. It seems the trpamaking is more of a Thieves Guild thing than goblin thing. As they make it to the entrance of the room, jaws drop at the sight of the hoard of things scattered about the large room. There are some items that could be considered valuable to the right buyer but most of it just seems to be shiny scraps of metal, large amounts of what looks like hand-made trinkets, a few open chests, and small piles of coins scattered about.

The main thing in the room though at the far end is a large chair, almost a throne. which looks to be made entirely of granite with gold filigree worked throughout it's backing. It's a little too worn to tell what the filigree is supposed to be depicting...That and there's a very irate looking goblin seated on it.

This goblin is different from the others that the group faced earlier though. This one has greyish-black skin and red eyes and doesn't burst into a rage or panic as he group enters; merely watches them make their way into the room while tapping his short fingers on one armrest with his other propping his head up which sports a look of annoyance more than anything. He's outfitted in a black set of studded armor though no weapons are visible on his person.

Actions? Also, perception checks please. (Also, roll initiative in you next post so if fighting breaks out, we won't have to go through the whole annoyance of getting it then.)


This message was last edited by the GM at 04:28, Sat 12 May 2012.

Taron steps to the front like a good little melee fighter.  Seeing as how the bethroned Goblin is aware of them he doesn't bother with tiptoeing about.  He refrains from speaking, not trusting himself to sound particularly confident at the moment, but he runs through a few of the quicker mental exercises he learned back at the monastery in preparation for a battle.

21:06, Today: Taron Bein rolled 23 using 1d20+3. Initiative.
05:13, Today: Taron Bein rolled 25 using 1d20+6. Perception. (OOC: Wish I could have saved that 20 and 19 for my first attack roll but oh well!)
This message was last edited by the player at 12:13, Sat 12 May 2012.

Gren cocked a brow.  The goblin looked different than the others.  He didn't have any weapons.  He was alone.  And Gren's group seemed to be blocking the only entrance into the room.  His eyes told him there was no threat, so why was his gut screaming ambush?  "You goblin.  Speak common?" he asked as he jabbed a finger in the goblin's direction.  "Cagim Esnes," Gren then cast to see if there were any enchantments laying about the room.  Gren slowly moved a little further into the room.

09:43, Today: Gren Boarshead rolled 20 using 1d20+2. initiative.
14:15, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Gren Boarshead, rolled 4 using 1d20-1. Perception.
Cast Sense Magic.  Move to K7.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:15, Sun 13 May 2012.

Nori took a step into the room and was about to rush forward to smash the little goblin king. However, since the little monster didn't rush forward himself or scream for others to arrive, Nori was a bit weary of running forward. Goblins were tricky fellows and he wasn't about to put it past them to have the entire room be one large booby trap.

When Gren began trying to speak to the little one, Nori was dumbfounded that the giant even tried.


12:38, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 14 using 1d20+6. perception.
12:38, Today: Nori Hammerfist rolled 14 using 1d20+2. initiative.

Moved up to K2

Awkw-ard, Dale thinks to himself.  He tries to wave at the goblin in the throne, but just ends up shaking his crossbow at it.  He quickly pulls his crossbow down.  He moves a bit to the side and scans the wall closest to him for another entrance.

Dale moves to L6.  14 Perception on wall M.  8 Initiative.

The goblin remains seated on his throne, though the drum of his nails on the once polished hardwood of the armrest conveys his irritation. He sits up a bit, puffing out his chest before wiping what appears to be running snot from the corner of his bulbous nose. [Language unknown: "Unic...For Stilos, eveevecom!"] The thing thinks for a moment, then speaks again, [Language unknown: "Ncenterom? Ckilil on ntible-whivor ortoveverterich erssi but toecng wencte seev, ard."] The thing scoffs at Gren and then narrows its eyes. [Language unknown: "Er trman as ourer niel und larstaore u. Pance wh beouie ughdi e ousiouame. Ll k manme astsanmen tr mikor oldilitero? Ithonshis ec weanie Tr ain antwe hoeclo oudiie ingwe ortun adunee. Ulen mi ameromonewil mitone he nowi, E ee m us ere anyhisons se hapl icaarteve nari k acwise hiseli ce ss cemoio entsheencart."]

"Bagh! Does anyone know what this snot-nosed twerp is saying?" grunted Gren.  He continued to look around.  If there was magic he would sense it eventually.  If there were any traps, he hoped Tempus would stumble into them.

Wilem didn't reply to his compatriots, but he leveled his steel gaze at the enthroned goblin. [Language unknown: "THAIE capeai? E day caie whing evles sail Et ul laet, po onsthioun andee ncewilnti il moce aveovepro earwityin."] He said, menace in his tone. [Language unknown: "M herut eenromain t oreoussti reastathi. Fi tho st ine u tinmeneenkor."] Wilem's tone seemed to mollify a little. But a thread of his threatening tone still lingered. [Language unknown: "Rewe heranyone p neic eveer lesek. Chons i, cear ev ant ekilit e ro ilardi atiof Andeveman. Tin oredernce ilson o rom k mensi sonoveourove..."]

Wilem made a show of swinging his sword at that last part. It was an odd sensation to be able to speak freely in a language not his own.


14:18, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Wilem, rolled 15 using 1d20+3. Inititative.
14:19, Today: DM Visceri, on behalf of Wilem, rolled 12 using 1d20. Perception.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:20, Sun 13 May 2012.

Tempus keeps quiet as he doesn't know the language but can see that the newcomer seems to be able to communicate well enough. Instead he spends his time searching for traps and whatnot to make sure that if worse does come to worse, there won't be any surprises.

16:05, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 6 using 1d20+5. Perception. ( XD )
16:05, Today: Tempus Edwyn rolled 23 using 1d20+7. Inititative.

Jarroz stands somewhat idle towards the front of the group. His normal go-get-em attitude pushed him towards the front of the pack with Wilem and now he had nothing to do but prepare for the worst. He took a few steps out from the group and began to look back and forth around the room looking for signs of something amiss.


OOC:
Jarroz moves one square to the right and looks around the room

04:59, Today: Jarroz rolled 15 using 1d20+7. Jarroz, perception.
04:49, Today: Jarroz rolled 9 using 1d20+4. Jarroz, initiative.

Perception Check PMs. If you didn't get one, you didn't see anything.

Turning his head slowly to the side he speaks slowly and quietly to the rest of the group behind him while simultaneously keeping his eye on as much of the room as he can, "There are goblins hiding all around the room waiting to attack.  Sir Wilem, if you can convince them we're just here for the Thieves' Guild it may save us a whole world of trouble."  He takes a deep breath, slowly in, slowly out, once again running through the mental preparations he learned in his training back at the monastery.

Wilem nodded at his new companion. "I'll do what I can. I'm not much for sweet-talking, but I'll try."

Turning back to the goblin, he smiled, taking a stance of nonaggression. [Language unknown: "M ll ev conameted esolsa. Ort At hasourort sti escath nte iv waishe hisreaing we. Ha san seai chtoheol, laai ossiie we dinla dime Linowe ou fortinour te een terentsti. Fobe eenel areeenhas ch rethes, adun kor ro WIOU ughsi utceof ing ev sterss. As lisson ectlo somshetha ss benaou ismome."] The group ca hear that Wilem's voice starts out pleasant and diplomatic, but quickly devolves into a rather threatening tone.

OOC: 08:05, Today: Wilem rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Diplomacy.
08:08, Today: Wilem rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Intimidate.

I vote you shoot them first, James says.

I'm not disagreeing, but I'd rather find the Thieves Guild than force a confrontation here.  Still, they're just goblins.  I won't feel too bad.  Dale readies his weapon and tries to identify the location of a goblin near him.

19:17, Today: Dalinar Reynolds rolled 10 using 1d20+2. Perception.

Gren didn't know Wilem, and he didn't know what was being said.  Given the experiences so far with the group, he figured diplomacy wasn't likely to work.  Gren wove designs in the air with his fingers as he chanted, "Dleihs."  The defensive spell he just cast would help protect him from his enemies, and friends alike.

Cast shield

The goblin perks up when Wilem speaks the first time, obviously taking a keen interest in whatever the man had said. [Language unknown: "Nd chfo us toitai paasun...se wieveste staredill vir m comtintrathe ta noder iest,"] the thing taps a clawed finger on its chin. It seems lost in thought until Gren begins to cast a spell and it suddenly turns its beady red eyes on the large man. [Language unknown: "Ameat wi to rimick? Erevening nome pl dinenchas t u Hatverday. O ou te omne prwifo resastlar maure ri u riacli isout llivne!"]. The gobin squeals in anger and points a finger at gren "No magicks, hairy man!!"

The goblin stands up on his throne and more movement canbe detected around the room, but his 'children' do not come out from hiding yet. The 'Goblin King' looks agitated and ready to take matters into his own hands, but then Wilem speaks again. The goblin pats the air down with his hands in a motion to calm his children, [Language unknown: "Herrutsta ailiom rat setna! Th in tr prng ll n sta althma yin wilec un ulckit of ulnc herherproonsmen..."] Its words trail off in a hiss. [Language unknown: "Ome butareter o whurti usad ome etpaet! Ntse ul ncec waulit O manlating laica evant areto utca. Ast inicfo somsta'ratwit ai. U nihou ant ellat m allace ac, ca ur erla p caec. Ho reisispl tr O pr eiall areineble is osica thaar k realatsta oneiussa unul iendee wina th prroiepour even miort ieman."]
This message was last edited by a game editor at 15:11, Mon 14 May 2012.

Erasmus--quite pleased to be surrounded by the extra allies in this sort of situation--finds his faith in Sarenrae affirmed once again.  Doubly so when the holy warrior begins speaking in the creature's tongue.  He makes a mental note to ask the man what his holy orders are, that would bring him to speak such a language.  Having little else to contribute to the situation, he elects to help by remaining silent.

Wilem nodded at the goblin. [Language unknown: "O sanpa een, usacma oflaee."]

"Don't attack!" He said in plain common. "We'll let us by unmolested since we're helping him indirectly."

Wilem sheathed his weapon, his other hand still holding the torch. "Put up your weapons. We can leave uncontested, but we can't afford to have this go sour."

[Language unknown: "Ma setnd anywitoreect fi derrutvor. Ort elelon verhatove o red riman. Ic onere ent icacomnde ul le k ich sta? Ad ovesanard te thtr esthca illar ei wilsa hersa meng di ha redessfor sa teisil na ard Elngai t ominieis."]

Nori was a bit happy that someone could communicate with the little creature, he himself had no idea what it was saying. He was fine with Wilem handling the situation and only eyed the room with a suspicious glance.

When Wilem asked they holster their weapons, Nori was not happy with that command whatsoever, "Not going to 'appen boy, dis weapon will be livin my 'and wen I'm good an dead. You can take my word though, I won't strike unless attacked."

Though Gren didn't like the idea he sheathed his javelin.  There were plenty of other things in the room to toss if need be.  He gave the goblin a nasty look before scratching his own balls and crossing his arms in front of his chest.  "See I knew he spoke common," he grunted.  "So do they know where the theives guild is?  Or at least where some of their traps are located?" he asked Wilem.

Dale really didn't like the idea - and James even less so - but he hooked his crossbow onto his belt and sheathed his sword.  If a fight was going to break out, and it looked like they might be able to avoid that if Nori would cooperate, Dale would still be able to cast at the little buggers.

[Language unknown: "Ai ourie n ourovetho usman nce dayevevor e resstavir somsheate, ss i Uneiriss folat wh wit. Theai, E ere enre pa o lar thaectlin uratsa, rino ai ou enckhi oveundeeners, lin enc ure ar str nce acmi an ta i te esesunsi o tiioulis al nce beisnc."] The goblin eyes Nori, the corners of his mouth curling into a snarl. [Language unknown: "As o rom hena trar ardbutive all. Po stich tr res enevca minato li utno thu sa lipa. Me beitin of der wa ineri iveughlin."] The thing motions at a shelf that has been nailed, glued, and otherwise haphazardly attached to the wall where small swatches of hair are scattered about.

Listening to the exchange in that guttural language he assumes is Goblin he slowly turns his head to scan the room and find the closest of the little buggers, still planning for a possible attack and quite happy that he needn't rely on weapons in the event that the Goblins renege on their agreement to let the group go.  We have an out! his inner monologue veritably screams We cannot afford to mess this up!

In reply to Taron Bein (msg #260):

Seeing the dwarf was not fully understanding the situation at hand the thing puts its hand out. "Give me a hunk of your beard, dwarf. Otherwise i'm not sharen' any info or my tunnels."
This message was lightly edited by a game editor at 16:44, Thu 17 May 2012.

Dale snorts in an attempt to hide his laughter and ducks his head down in an attempt to not be too rude.  Even James his laughing in the back of Dale's mind.

Nori's knuckles turned white against his warhammer as the goblin finally spoke in a language he could understand. The creature asked the impossible of him and quite frankly had insulted the pride of any dwarf with his demand. The vein against his forehead became more visible as the skin on his face changed to a darker hue of red. The others could see that Nori was moment's away from charging head on into the goblin king.

"Enough o dis! I'm gonna smash yer 'ead against dat throne!", he bellowed at the goblin before charging ahead with a war cry.


OOC: So I was thinking of letting the others go first to try and stop him but I figured that wasn't going to happen. I'll roll and post my initiative in a moment. Also, just to be clear, Nori is gonna use a free action to rage.

edit: Never mind, forgot we already rolled it.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:56, Thu 17 May 2012.

Gren sneared.  The goblin just made a mistake.  Even though Gren had just met the dwarf, he quickly learned about the dwarf's short temper.  The goblin was asking for a fight and now he was going to get one.  Gren wasn't going to hold the dwarf back.  Instead, he waited...

Hold action until the other goblins leap out of hiding.  Maybe the others are willing and able to stop Nori, but Gren won't.
Shield spell still on, AC16
This message was last edited by the player at 22:21, Thu 17 May 2012.

Outwardly Taron reacts quickly, the years of training behind him turning it into an act of instinct rather than a tactical move, "Nori, STOP!"  Inwardly Taron is inches from a full-on panic and his mind is repeating one very un-zenlike word over and over.  He knows his chances of holding Nori back are slim, but if some of the others jump in and help they might still be able to survive this...

Initiative: 23
Current/Max HP: 6/10
Current AC: 16
 - Touch: 16
 - Flat-Footed: 12

Target: Nori at coordinate L-2 (or wherever he ends up as he charges)
Rolls: 21:04, Today: Taron Bein rolled 15 using 1d20+3. Drag (Combat Mnvr) vs. Nori.

Buffs: None
Debuffs: None

Actions:
 - Full-Round: xx
 - Standard: Drag
 - Move: Intercepting Nori if necessary
 - Free: xx

(OOC:  See entry for Drag Combat Maneuver here: http://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/combat#TOC-Drag)

"Nonono, don't start."  Dale hears and sees Taron attempt to stop Nori and decides to help him.  He didn't want to stay in the sewers looking around blindly when where were locals willing to help.

Dale moves around to Nori and tries to pin one of his arms.

Nice friends you found, Dale, James says dryly.  I can't believe you're the sensible one here.

Rolled 17 to assist.  Taron gets a +2 on his next CMB to grapple Nori.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Fri 18 May 2012.

With the commotion erupting the goblin jumps up on his feet (now standing on the seat of his throne) and puts his hands up patting at the air frantically as if he is trying to calm the furious dwarf.

Erasmus pales at this turn of events, moving swiftly to put as many bodies between himself and the goblins.  He was certainly glad for their larger numbers at this point.

---

Initiative: 14
Move: Withdraw to back of party.

14:51, Today: Erasmus rolled 14 using 1d20-2. init.

Jarroz readies himself against the coming storm, it looked as if the others were struggling against each other and in the face of danger Jarroz knew that it would be to no avail. He turned his head to tell the others, "We shouldn't be fighting against ourselves, lest the goblins already have the upper hand. " he spurts quickly to the others.


OOC:
Full Round Action: Total Defense

INITIATIVE ORDER
23 Taron
23 Tempus
21 Goblin Leader
20 Gren
15 Wilem
15 Goblins
14 Erasmus
14 Nori
  9 Jarroz
  8 Dale

OOC: So we're starting with Nori's place in the initiative and going from there assuming that the these situation allows people to react AS he is moving, not after. Hoping to get through this fast and not deal too much of the PvP aspects here.

As Nori furiously charges the goblin leader, Taron and Dale jump forward to attempt to stop the dwarf from ruining the delicate diplomatic situation they found themselves in. "Nori STOP!" Taron yells as he springs into action and grabs the dwarf around the chest, almost getting swung around and off the ground before Dale can rush in and help him. "Nonono, don't start," Dale warns Nori as he attempts to calm him down. Erasmus in the mean time had to jump out of the way to avoid getting caught in-between a dwarf and a hard place so to speak while the rest of the party takes a defensive stance, readying themselves if the goblins would take this as a signal to attack.

All around the room, goblins make themselves visible, weapons in hand, ready to defend their leader though all of them switch views between Nori and the leader, unsure if they should attack or not. Perhaps too interested in the idea of having the sewers to himself or intimidated by Wilem's words, the leader puts his hands down as the dwarf is subdued and looks angrily at the group, "All I ask for is some hair and the savage goes wild! Fine we'll take you to the Guild, just don't kill any more of us!" He seems worried though attempting to put on a brave face even while caving to the groups terms. He looks to the left side of the room, [Language unknown: "Vertedaresom, lotr son ac anitmete t oftin Nceoerpro...Mo OUUL und."]

At the goblin's words, one of the hidden goblins bounds out into sight and stands in front of the party eyeing them suspiciously. He wears a black headband that looks like it's been torn off of some dark colored curtains and hastily tied into the ragtag piece of head ware. He also has a few clinging bracelets and a necklace that looks like a falcon overlying his leather armor which is old, cracked, and obviously too big for him. A shortsword in his hands, not threateningly, but still definitely wary he nods to Wilem and points back down the tunnel they came through. The goblin leader speaks up, "Ah I must warn you, Zar'tevs doesn't speak but he listens well enough. He'll lead you there but don't expect much else from him, he's not too overly fond of other races." At this, the little goblin sticks his rough grey tongue out at the group.


This message was last edited by the GM at 08:27, Wed 23 May 2012.

"Everybody just be calm!" The paladin said raising his hands in a placating fashion as the Dwarf loses it.

"We thank you for the guide, and as promised, we'll leave you unmolested. Zar'tevs knows the right way, yes?" He asked, keeping his tone even.

Wilem kept his blade sheathed, and leveled a cold gaze at the angry dwarf. "Don't lose sight of our task, master Dwarf. I'll not let you make a liar out of me."

The goblin leader looks to Wilem, "Yes, yes, now go, before I change my mind." His attitude seems to be a combination of annoyance and fear at the power of the party before him as he looks around the room, trying to decide whether his subjects could even hope to win against them and finding an answer he doesn't much like.

"OK?" Dale asks Nori.  If Nori doesn't try to massacre everyone, Dale backs off and edges over near the paladin.  He looks over to the goblin king and says, "Thanks for the help.  Hopefully the sewers will be all yours by the end of the night." 

And they can keep them.  Although...  Dale eyes some of the treasure scattered around the room.  I may have to come back later.  Maybe it's not so bad here after all.

Uncertain if dwarves succumb to social pressure, Erasmus positions himself behind Wilem to lend his support to the man's words.  They sooner they were out of here, the better.

Gren stood by the doorway until all his companions safetly left the room.  He didn't want the goblins stabbing anyone in the back.  He then backed out himself.  "Well it seems we made our point earlier.  So anyone want to explain where we are headed?  I don't speak goblie tongue."

Something was off. Perhaps the thought was purely racist but he didn't trust the goblin's motives enough to completely let go of his guard. He eyed Nori warily as he constantly looked around the room, the tension was so tight that one false breath might set the room into a swirling melee. He followed the goblin cautiously.

Zar'tevs wiggles his way through the legs on the party to come out on the other side by the tunnel and doesn't hesitate to begin his job as guide. As the group follows the goblin, the pass through the tunnel back into the room where they met up with Wilem and Jarroz. The goblin pauses for a moment as he scans the blank wall and seemingly finding what he's looking for, walks up to the wall and presses two stones into the wall which causes part of the wall to slide open revealing yet another tunnel, large enough for Gren to walk upright in with a few inches to spare this time around. As Zar'tevs turns to beckon the party down the tunnel, everyone begins to move forward with the exception of Taron and Tempus. The two hesitate and eye the ladder leading to somewhere on the surface longingly.

"I think this is where I will be parting my way with everyone. I get the distinct feeling I am not really welcome here and after all, someone needs to give the captain of the guard an update to the current plans and that those two," Tempus nods towards Jarroz and Wilem, "found our group successfully." Taron clears his throat, "I think I'll accompany him. Make sure he does as he says. I don't think I'm cut out for this sort of work. I think I'll be heading back to my monastery as soon as our message is delivered." The two look around at the group awkwardly before they give nods to the remaining members and set off up the ladder, moving aside the grate to reveal what looks like a basement of some sort, disappearing moments later and replacing the grate behind them.

As the group stares up after the two, a low rumbling "Hmmm" comes from behind them down the tunnel they came from. Upon turning to inspect the noise, they see a rather fearsome looking gargoyle perched on the exit of the tunnel which is slightly raised from the ground looking up with an inquisitive look on its face, one hand scratching the side of its rocky head, the other hanging limply between it's crouched legs. It has large bat-like wings stretching out above its shoulders though one of them seems to be badly damaged by what looks like some sort of corrosive material that has eaten away at the rock used to sculpt the creature. Its surface is likewise damaged, covered in pockmarks, gouges, and scratches that speak of the age of the creature. Its ears, pointier by far than those of any Elf, stick out to the sides while two curling horns arch up, back, and slightly downward again. But by far the most intriguing aspect is the glowing red eyes which looks down to meet some of the party members'.



OOC: And Strange finally joins the game!
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:41, Sun 27 May 2012.

Those glowing red eyes oddly manage to convey a sense of curiosity rather than the malevolence you might expect from such a creature, and they blink inquisitively a few times as they scan the group, "Hmm.. How now?  Finally free of that wretched room after twenty-seven long years.  I was precariously close to running out of stones to name.  Hmm..."  That low, slow voice evoked the sound of two slabs of granite grinding together with an underlying hint of shifting gravel.  He seemed to speak slowly, as if picking his words carefully, and some of his wording was old fashioned.

(OOC: If it helps, imagine him talking like Treebeard: http://www.youtube.com/watch?f...v=CW0QSg5f1Kk#t=198s )

"Good riddance," muttered Gren as Tempus and the monk left.

Hearing a sound behind the group Gren drew a javelin and pointed it at the creature, ”What in the void is that?”  It looked like an ugly statue come to life.  It took Gren a minute to realize the creature had spoken, and Common no less.  ”What kind of demon are you?” he asked the thing without any regard to diplomacy or proper etiquette.  Was this some sort of summoned monster?

Gren’s head whipped around real quick to make sure the goblin didn’t use this distraction as a chance to disappear.

At the sight of the stone monster, something ripples in Dale's chest, a feeling he recognizes as the kind of excitement that's going to make him do something suicidally stupid.  He gets a similar feeling from James.  "That," Dale says as he picks his way closer, "is so cool."  If he manages to get close enough, he sticks his hand out to Strange.  "I'm Dale.  And you... are one of the strangest things I have ever seen."

I'm not sure if gargoyles would fall under Kn (arcana) or Kn (dungeoneering), but Dale has the same modifier for both.  Sadly, he failed anyway.  Kn: 6 + 7 = 13.

At Gren and Dale's statements that ugly, marred stone face cocks to the side slightly, "Hmm.. The Architect did not inform me what sort of demon I was meant to portray.  I am much the same as all of my quarry-brothers, this much I do know.. hmm.."  He examines his own left hand idly noting that, at some point, his thumb had come off without him noticing,  "Although now there appear to be some minor differences.. yes..."  He nods slightly, as if this were of no great concern to him.  After all, of what concern is normal wear and tear to a piece of statuary?  After a few moments of pondering his lost digit he looks towards Dale, "Not Strangest, but Strange.. yes, hmm.. that is what they call me, good sirs.  Hmm... and what might they call you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:12, Mon 28 May 2012.

Jarroz nodded back to Tempus and watched the two leave through the ladder. If Gren was happy to see them go then Jarroz was sure that it was a good thing. When Jarroz was finished the goblin had already started to move on. He didn't exactly know what to make of this place as of yet but it had only been a short while and the group seemed to be making progress. Jarroz watched, as he often did, the others enter the hallway and immediately stop. Letting out a sigh he poked his head out from behind the large half-ogre to get a better look.

Jarroz' eyes widened a bit as he beheld the demonic carving that had begun to talk and his jaw slacked slightly when Dale approached the creature of his own volition. 'No wonder they sent me, this place is mad'

Dale. NO!, he shouted just trying to get the words out before he moved any closer, "We don't know what it even is much less what it wants. Excercise caution. Jarroz' voice had a sense of urgency to it. The half-orc quickly ducked underneath Gren's large torso and skirted the outside of the group until he was in the front. He pointed at the stonework monster. "Well Strange. I am Jarroz, of the clan of the sun and moon. We ... ", he said with a gesture to his comrades, "seek passage through these halls. What are your intentions?

As Jarroz suddenly cries out and moves closer Strange's eyes fix upon him and follow his maneuvering through the group, "Hmm.. Well then, seeing as how I haven't any other more pressing engagements to attend I suppose.. hmm.. here one thick stone brow raises slightly and his hands swing upward, palms up, his shoulders rising slowly and then falling again a few moments later, a rather slow and deliberate shrug, "I seek passage through these halls, much the same as you.  Would you allow me to follow along and see what other goals we have in common?"

Erasmus finds himself re-evaluating his assessment of the goblins as they follow their guide.  The kind of stonework mechanics they've been using was impressive, hidden doors that slide, the ability to flood the city's sewer system, etc.  It was a technical sophistication above what he expected from his own people, which was very unnerving.

Tempus and Taron's departure were unexpected, but not unwelcome--at least as far as Tempus was converned.  The warrior had intentionally injured one of their number, not the sort of rough housing that knuck-draggers were wont to do, but he stabbed Gren, aiming for vital organs.  So while his leaving the group would mean one less sword on their side, it would also mean one less threat to watch out for.  Taron...well he didn't want anyone with them who would cower in the face of adversity.  That was almost as dangerous he supposed.  In all, he considered his mood lifted by the event.

When the party stumbled upon Strange, Erasmus was nearly floored.  "Sarenrae be praised!" he gasps.  "First she replaces that contempatble man with a holy warrior from her ranks..." he begins, referring to Wilem's arrive and Tempus's departure "and then we come upon one of her Temple Guardians..."  He steps forward to interpose himself between Gren and Strange--it wouldn't do for the half-ogre to get himself injured again.

"From what temple are you?" he asks Strange, confused.  Half-turning to the party by way of explanation, he elaborates "When I served as an acolyte at Our Lady of the Healing Flame, there were several guardians such as this to watch over the temple by night.  They were created for a darker times, and said to be alive.  We used to stare at them while eating lunch, hoping to catch one moving.  Several times I was certain I saw this happen but the movements were only slight, so I often wondered if it was just my eyes playing tricks on me, and if they were nothing more than mere statues."

"I'm fine with it," Dale says to Strange.  "But we better hurry.  Our guide isn't the most patient of people."  Dale starts running in place.  "I recommend a brisk pace, good for the blood."

If he has blood, James says dryly.

Gren sighed, shook his head, and lowered his weapon.  The others didn't seem to think the stone creature was a threat, so....

"To bring you up to speed...There are theives and assassins hiding out down here.  They killed a man running for office and the citywatch will pay us to find answers.  For the moment we have an uneasy truth with the goblin folk down here.  They'll lead us to the theives if we agree not to kill any more of them.  At least I think that's the deal.  I couldn't really understand all the gobbly gobbly gibberish.  Keep your eyes open for traps.  Oh...and one more thing.  If any one of you stab me again, I'm going to lose it and go on a murder spree."

He turned to fall in behind the goblin.  "Alright, let's go runt."

"Oh, traps is it?"  Taking a cue from Gren and Dale he insinuates himself among the group, "Hmm.. I have a particular interest in that area, myself.  Why, in my time I've disarmed many a different trap.  Hmm.. yes.. spring-loaded scythes, pitfalls, rope-mazes.  Traps fit for a king, yes indeed."  It was not clear how much of this was true, but if there was one thing Gargoyles were known for besides their violence it was their braggadocio.  As Strange finds himself next to Erasmus he turns his head to address the Priest of Sarenrae, "You say you spent time at Our Lady of the Healing Flame?  Hmm.. I have been there, I think.  My kin who roost there are rather.. hmm.. fanatical.  Even worse, they had already claimed all the good pedestals.  One cannot strike a good pose without a proper pedestal.  Yes.. hmm.. I could not bear to spend more than a few years roosting among them."  To others it might seem odd the way he spoke of spending many years in one place, in one position, but such was the way of life for one such as himself.

Still a bit flabbergasted by the recent turn of events Jarroz shook his head and fell back in line behind Gren. "Amiable goblins, talking statues, what'll be next? You know I wouldn't be surprised if these assassins were actually under the employ of those who hired us. Seems about as likely as everything else that's happened today., he says as he slaps his hand to his head.

While the whole party has been keeping eyes on Strange and the departure of two of their rank, the goblin guide made off down the tunnel and has now returned back, noticing that there was nobody following. He doesn't speak to get your attention, rather drags his sharp pointed nails across the stone wall of the tunnel which elicits a loud squealing screaming noise that is quite grating on the ears. He crosses his arms as he gets his attention and points down the tunnel and walks off, obviously annoyed at having to come back to get his charges.

As the group falls in behind their guide, they notice that the tunnel they are traveling in makes a wide arc down the same direction that the water had come rushing down from in the sewer itself. The tunnel walls here are in no way man made, rather seeming to be carved out the stone itself with sharp objects, possibly a hasty construction of the goblins or the Thieves Guild themselves. After about five minutes, you reach a dead end in the tunnel with four levers places on the walls, two on each side. In fact, if you had noticed when you entered the tunnel, there were four similar looking levers in similar positions. The goblin lifts the upper right one and pushes down the upper left one and the wall slides open much the same way as the two doors the group has already seen, putting themselves on the southern wall of a new room.

Inside the new room, there is a large steel door with no openings or keyholes, not even a handle exiting west while on the easternmost wall of the room, there is a ladder leading up to a steel trapdoor. Other than those two distinctions, all there is in the room is a very out of place wooden desk with a single quill resting in an ink vial and two rolls of parchment sitting on the table, one rolled up to the side, the other laying spread out with small rocks serving as paperweights.

Waling into the room, the goblin makes a b-line for the desk, stepping up behind it and upon jumping onto the chair, reaches out and twists lower left corner's paperweight which produces an audible click over by the ladder. His job seemingly complete, their guide walks over to the front of the desk, rests against it, and motions to the ladder with an open hand.

Nori had remained silent the entire time after dealing with the goblin king. He was half tempted to depart when the other two men had left but instead he remained, his dwarven stubbornness to see the job done kept him around. He was irked and in a foul temper that a goblin would demand a piece of his beloved beard as payment and the others actually contemplated doing it! It did not go unnoticed that the only one that practically backed him up was the giant and not the humans.

The young races just didn't have it in them to value anything nor fight for it. Perhaps it was just a bit of hair but the fact that it was treasured by Nori made it that much more important.

When the newcomer had joined them, the strange..Strange, Nori said nothing nor acknowledged the creature. They had met giants and orcs and goblins and yet only a few of the smaller beasts had fallen to his hammer. He was slipping and needed to kill something soon. If another creature attempted to call itself his companion, he would strike it dead.

The small goblin had motioned for them to rise up the ladder and Nori moved ahead towards it, if he stayed down any longer he was afraid he would crush the little monster with one swing.

"Aye'll go on ahead. Can't be fearin traps forever." He wanted to be in the front in case a fight broke out. Even though he said that, he was still cautious with each rung he rose.

The room was a strange set up.  Gren slowly moved behind the dest to get a closer look at the parchments.

Goblins are much more clever than I gave them credit for, Dale thinks to James as he looks around the room with all its secret triggers.  "Best not to touch too much, I think."

Then Nori says something about not fearing traps, and Dale agrees completely.  He quickly follows the dwarf to the ladder and waves at Strange to follow.  "Fun things this way, I hope."

Don't fangirl, Dale.

Strange meanders along amongst the group, not seeming at all hesitant or wary, apparently quite comfortable with his new comrades.  He works his way up near the front of the group where he can keep one glowy red eye out for possible traps, and, as Nori begins his ascent ahead of the group he speaks out, [Language unknown: "Wa ol of espepe, ckusle Wiur'tece.  Wil.. M korvirdin ur lote m ing enc pa iousanble."]  The capital letter was almost plainly audible in that statement, and he scans the ladder shaft for possible traps, ready to warn Nori at a moment's notice if he is about to set one off.

21:59, Today: Secret Roll: Strange rolled 11 using 1d20+6. Perception check for traps.

Nori only glanced over his shoulder at Strange and nodded, it felt odd to him to see the creature use his native tongue so well. [Language unknown: "Larwh omntwe wer resme i icaherver eitaer li he cech eeon hat pa deroutwhi t urndus forei om conhisred n se prmiad."] He moved to climb up and was ready to jump at a moments notice of danger. Before that however, he looked back to see who was following and who was staying in the room.

He noticed only Dale was following and Gren was looking over something at the desk, "Oi, Giant. Der sumting aye should know 'bout fore 'eading to da top?"