--Once you make way from the inn--

Gevarn rises and stretches urging you forward.
Walking outside, he eyes you - and asks coy-fully.
"I have sadly not seen any trade wagons or horses for hire around here, but what do you reckon? Should we give it another look or get going by foot? It is a beautiful trip!"

On the road:
The road to Winterhaven is best taken by following the large traderoute; The King's road.
The wind is cool and comfortable. The road beneath your feet is level. An occasional ancient cobblestone peeks through the dirt road, indicating decades of neglect.
Gevarn takes heavy strides, moving with surprising ease and feeling jovial for a change.
The sun is high, and you have plenty of daylight to work with, having traveled for but a few hours.


OOC: This is fairly open, so detail how you are travelling, and how you decide to take stops and camp etc. It is a four day trip so you have to have some consideration in play here.

"Someone forgot to mention it was going to be four days by foot," Malphurious grumbled as they continued down the dirt road.  The old warrior was much more spry than he's constant complaints of aches and pains would indicate, but the grumblings were always good natured.

"Anyway, Gevarn, tell us of some of the key players in Winterhaven.  Who are the Who's Who? I think that's the phrase you humans use," Malph asked the old acolyte.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:09, Wed 23 Nov 2016.

Gevarn chuckled.
"Quite a question, but let me try and answer!"
He rubbed his chin.

"Winterhaven is run by Ernest Padraig, the Lord of Winterhaven, is descended from the noble family that ruled the area under edict of the old empire. Folks around Winterhaven were happy with Lord Padraig’s father’s authority, and they have found answering to the rules of the new lord no more arduous. On the other hand, Padraig doesn’t have absolute power. For instance, he has been unable to raise a force from among the villagers to deal with the kobold problem
on the road. It is troublesome but he is liked greatly aside though.

Then we have Sister Linora, bless her heart, she prefers to travel among the homes outside
the walls, dispensing care to villagers and animals and helping with various farm projects.

Salvana Wrafton owns Wrafton’s Inn, and it serves as a hub of delicious specialities and also as a gathering place for travelers and information. It is wortwhile to be on her good side, even if she can be a bit...stern at times.

There is, Rond Kelfem, captain of the Winterhaven Regulars, also overseeing the Warrior Guild. The local militia if you would. He and Padraig don't always see eye to eye. Resources you know.

Oh yeah, how could I forget. His honorable....Valthrun the Prescient.
Valthrun is a sage and scholar who lives in a tower within Winterhaven’s walls. Valthrun
is knowledgeable about the area and is knowledgeable and quite the listener, I have heard."

He nods, confident that the lay of the land was somewhat clearer for them going forward and also illustrated the vast knowledge the man held.

Saskan listened intently and then broke in, "So the chief and his warriors aren't always on the same page and their is both a religious and arcane faction. And a pleasant sounding Inn. Let's stop there first, but I am glad to have a nice lay of the land. Gevarn, am I right to assume Sister Linora is the person you "report" to?

Saskan kept pace with his uncle easy enough but he was always surprised to see how limber he remained at his old age. He hoped he would age as well.

Ignatz's yellow eyes glaze over as he tries in vain to follow Gevarn's relentless list of proper nouns. He quickly takes to scouting ahead of the party for likely campsites and sources of fresh water, doing as much foraging as he can without venturing out of earshot of the party. It's not uncommon for the rest of the group to see him bound off into the woods, too energetic to restrain himself to the party's reasonable pace, and then to hear the half-orc roar and crash through the brush to cut short some boar's panicked squealing. By the time the sun is threatening to set, Ignatz will likely have two sizeable carcasses and a good idea of where they can find water.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:35, Thu 24 Nov 2016.

Kbenjar keeps to the road but is happy enough to walk the whole trip. He occasionally takes a swig of his whiskey to keep up his spirits, but lets the energetic half-orc do the looking out for trouble.

 Warfryn has only little legs...add to that, that he is mainly a townie gnome and not one of the 'country cousins'.  SO all in all he is not having a great time.  Fortunately he is quite a tough little fellow and although he sometimes falls behind the longer legs of the others, he is never too far behind.

Gevarn nodded.
"Aye, she leads the union of Chauntea within Winterhaven and is the mbodiement of a person with her priorities in check. She cares for all who enter and stays clear of politics, albeit she is more clever than the lot of them if you ask me. Perhaps that is why!"

The first day passes by and Ignatz finds a calm place of the side of the road, just beyond the thicket, which provides cover from those outside on the road(thus not being able to peak in as well), and with some meat to add to the festivities. A nearby spring provides some needed water and they should be well in place for the night. Gevarn nods and lays down calmly against his backpack and eyes up at the stars.
^{12:25, Today: Storyteller rolled 18 using 1d20+1 - Nature DC for seeing Camp via Perc.}

OOC: You should consider two things when on the road. Especially roads which has been labeled as bandit and greenskin heavy.
- A marching order, who is first etc.
- If you rest or sleep, who takes shift and how long?

OOC: Proposed marching order is Mal, Saskan, Warfryn, and Kbenjar, with Ignatz as a forward scout. Do we want to do three shifts of two hours each, with two out of three shifts having two lookouts, and eight hours of total rest time? If so Ignatz can take the last watch by himself, and recommend Mal/Saskan and Kbenjar/Warfryn as the two pairs.

After a short stint of pleasantries, the party took to a hard march, hoping to make Winterhaven as soon as they could.

On the road, you are reminded shortly of you task initially, now a further added to the mix.

Something is rotten there. That is for sure.

Night falls, and you take turns setting camp and getting sorted.
You find a calm spot, and the night passes without many events - there are wolves about, as their howls pierce the night ever so often, but few predator animals it seems this close to a trade route. There is also relatively few you have met on your trip, who wasn't an outrider or similar man of the law. An ideal trip...so far.

Morning dawns, and you all feel rested.
Gevarn is up early, and sits composed, and have been for some time. He rises, nods and walks to a hot jar, pouring a warm and steaming liquid. Tea.
He nods to you lot, and allow you to get sorted and fed.
"Long day ahead. We are getting closer and these areas are not as kind so eat well and get sorted, so we can leave when you are prepared for it."
He sits again.

"I'm ready soon as everyone else is. We won't find no cult sittin' round havin' tea," Kbenjar says filling up his tankard, and dropping a capful of rum into it.

Warfryn gobbled down some trail rations and topped them off with a long swig from his waterskin.

"I'm ready too" he said, as he hoisted his pack onto his back.

Ignatz chugs the hot tea and stretches, enthusiastic as ever, and bounds off into the woods again as soon as everyone is packed and ready.

Scouting Rolls:
19:28, Today: Ignatz rolled 26 using 1d20+6.  Perception while scouting.
19:28, Today: Ignatz rolled 9 using 1d20+2.  Stealth while scouting.
19:27, Today: Ignatz rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Nature for foraging.

Malph keeps his head on a swivel, ever vigilant as they crossed territory known to be infested with greenskins and worse.

OOC: 20:15, Today: Malphurious rolled 23 using 1d20+6.  active perception.

You set off, closing in on the halfway point of your trip. The weather is calm for now, the wind cold but soothing, and the sun present, sending shades on the ground as you walk through the heavily forested area.
Ignatz finds a few rabbits along the way, but nothing major. About midday however something change.
You notice footprints leading up and down the road, many of which were made by small,
clawed feet. Malph, Ignatz and Kbenhar all notice something curious. Three silhouettes up ahead moving low and adeptly. They have seen you, but you have also seen them, so the element of surprise is on no ones foot. They are placed in cover, intently focused on not being seen, and it reeks of an ambush.

The distance is significant enough to prepare for it!



MAP: https://docs.google.com/drawin...Y6wdaYoFbJU6VCQ/edit

OOC: You notice the ambush and will not be surprised. Thus you can act accordingly. See map for further details.

This message was last edited by the GM at 11:02, Wed 30 Nov 2016.

Kbenjar whistles to the others and points in the direction of the ambushers laying in wait. "Looks as though Ignatz has seen 'em. Maybe we should flush 'em out? I don't fancy traipsin' through scrub to get 'em."

14:36, Today: Kbenjar rolled 6 using 1d20.  initiative.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:36, Wed 30 Nov 2016.

Malph catches the others' eyes and speaks loudly as he rubs his belly.  "Well we've been on the road a while.  We could stop here, in that grove for a bit of lunch.  What do you think Warfryn?"

He stopped so they could get a little closer and he whispered, "When we get close, engage."

OOC: 21:12, Today: Malphurious rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  initiative.

Ignatz, watching from the brush alongside the road, is poised to pounce on these would-be hunters. At Mal's words, however, he freezes. He hunkers down, hoping to remain unseen until it they were ready to spring the trap.

22:35, Today: Ignatz rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  Stealth.
22:34, Today: Ignatz rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  Initiative.

You notice the small scales chuckle to themselves as you approach(move as you see fit). and you notice movement up further also(map updated). They remain, eager to focus on their plan, and executing it as per agreement. It seems that Ignatz for the time being is ignored, as they can not see him through the trees. Inititally they seem searching for him, but ignore him shortly after, for whatever reasons. They remain poised, as they know their best chance is to time their assault just right.

OOC:
Bluff w/assist: 25 from Warfryn. With a +1 Wis modifier, they can not beat this, and will "buy" the bait.
Hence, you can "surprise" once you see fit - do note that they may do the same if you come to close to them(3 squares or closer).

^{Rolls:
09:54, Today: Storyteller, on behalf of Warfryn, rolled 25 using 1d20+11.  Bluff with assist.
10:08, Today: Storyteller rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Perception vs 16 to spot Ignatz.}

---

Enemy	HP	AC	F	R	W	Current conditions:	Effects/ongoing:
Tunneler	1/1	15	12	14	12	Shifty. Minion
Slinger	24/24	13	12	14	12	Special shot, Shifty
Dragonshield	36/36	18	14	13	13	Shifty, Tactics(Dirty/Dragonshield

Note: All have cover, so -2 to hit.

MAP: https://docs.google.com/drawin...Y6wdaYoFbJU6VCQ/edit

Kbenjar watches the trio of skulkers ahead of Ignatz and calls on divine power to send tendrils of light in their direction.

Move: to Z11
Standard: Cast Hand of Radiance at R10, S10 and Q13 (hits S10 for 10hp of radiant damage)

20:22, Today: Kbenjar rolled 10 using 1d4+7.  damage.
20:21, Today: Kbenjar rolled 22 using 1d20+3.  Hand of Radiance on S10 -v- ref.
20:21, Today: Kbenjar rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Hand of Radiance on R10 -v- ref.
20:21, Today: Kbenjar rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Hand of Radiance on Q13 -v- ref.
 

Ignatz's pupils dilate as he senses the time to attack approach, and he surveys his prey. Kbenjar raises his hand, and Ignatz uncoils, launching himself like a bolt from a crossbow. He darts across the road and into the bushes on the other side of the road, zeroing in on the most vulnerable and solitary kobold. Roaring, Ignatz tears the startled reptilian apart in two tremendous swings, and then leaps toward the nearest living target. The second victim barely has a chance to raise its spear.

OOC:
Move    : U7
Standard: Charge->Q3 HIT Slinger AC 16 for 16 damage
AP      : Desperate Fury HIT Slinger AC 17 for 16 damage
Free    : Swift Charge HIT Tunneler AC 24
Q2 Slinger and L3 Tunneler are dead, Ignatz gains 2 temp hp

11:14, Today: Ignatz rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Swift Charge Howling Strike vs L3 AC 15.
11:14, Today: Ignatz rolled 16 using 2d6+6, rerolling ones.  Desperate Fury damage.
11:13, Today: Ignatz rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  AP Desperate Fury vs Slinger AC 13 -cover.
11:12, Today: Ignatz rolled 2 using 1d6, rerolling ones.  Howling Strike extra damage.
11:11, Today: Ignatz rolled 14 using 2d6+5, rerolling ones.  Howling Strike damage.
11:11, Today: Ignatz rolled 16 using 1d20+8.  Howling Strike vs Q2 AC 13 +CA, -cover.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:29, Thu 01 Dec 2016.

Malphurious walked forward until the last movement and moved into the brush with the kobolds to the left of the path.  He swung his flail, trying to lure the creature out of it's hiding place, but the flail caught branches and failed to find it's target.

OOC: Not a good showing on turn 1.
Move: 4 square (5 movement) to T9
Standard: Footwork Lure missed
Minor: n/a

12:59, Today: Malphurious rolled 14 using 1d20+6.  footwork lure + 6 [8-2 (cover)] vs AC18.

Warfryn jogged forward and ducked into the shadow of the bushes.  Calling upon his Fey mentor he cursed the nearest kobold before summoning up a more destructive eldritch power.  This he spat out towards the tunneller on the other side of the path and incinerated the kobold where he stood.

Move:  as per map
Warlock’s Curse on S10
Standard: Eldritch blast on L4 (at -2)

22:47, Today: Warfryn rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  Damage on tunnelkler.
22:45, Today: Warfryn rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Eldritch Blast on L4.

Saskan knows his uncle can do better, all he needs is a little encouragement. He steps forward himself still keeping a bit of distance between himself and the kobolds but says, "Aim for the legs uncle Mal!"

OOC: I will move in the morning but Malph gets a melee basic attack with a +3 bonus to damage.

Chaos erupts.
The whirlwind known as Ignatz blasts through several enemies, aided by Warfryn, and suddenly they all fall before him. The small kobolds shriek loudly and are cut apart. In the midst of it all he does not notice a skulking slinger appear whom shoots at him with a long arrow, adorned with a small sticky pot at the end. Hitting his leg, the sticky mass clings to him.
He is stuck!
The shield bearing kobolds advance, one scorched by the effects of the rays of Lathander, and misses Malph, however the two others find their home, and strike heavily into the legs of their foes, causing both to become staggered and unable to move.
The two last tunnelers vanish from sight, for the time being, using the diversion to hide away. Sensing danger, Gevarn raises his hand at Malph and speaks a word of prayer.
"Chauntea - renew the life within!"
Malph feels his wounds close slowly.


Effects/damage:
Map updated. Both Malph and Warfryn take a CRIT for 19 damage and are immobilized until the end of the kobold's next turn.(no save).
All shift to cover again, as per shifty ability.
The two tunnelers hide in cover, and can only be seen with perception 19 and 23 respectively.
A slinger appears out of nowhere, hiding in the dark - he shoots at Ignatz, hits for 9 damage and throws a gluepot in the mix, immobilized until the end of the kobold's next turn.(save ends!).
Malph can use a surge and get 1d6+3 extra Hp from is as per Gevarn.

OOC: If you take damage, include this as part of your post, as it makes it easier for the leader to heal!

NEW ROUND!

Rolls:
10:29, Today: Storyteller rolled 26,10,26 using 1d20+6,1d20+6,1d20+6.  3 x dirty tactics vs Warfryn and Malph x2 vs ref.
10:35, Today: Storyteller rolled 19,23 using 1d20+9,1d20+9.  Stealth checks.
11:15, Today: Storyteller rolled 18,9,5 using 1d20+8,1d6+5,1d6.  New slinger, special shot +effect.

---

Enemy	HP	AC	F	R	W	Current conditions:	Effects/ongoing:
Tunneler	1/1	15	12	14	12	Shifty. Minion
Slinger	24/24	13	12	14	12	Special shot, Shifty
Dragonshield	36/36	18	14	13	13	Shifty, Tactics(Dirty/Dragonshield	14/36,22/36,24/36

Note: All have cover, so -2 to hit.

MAP: https://docs.google.com/drawin...Y6wdaYoFbJU6VCQ/edit
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:50, Fri 02 Dec 2016.

With the battle now joined, Kbenjar moves in behind his companions and releases a pulse of divine power. He then summons a swarm of small angels to attack the enemies in the radiant burst.

Move: to U9
Minor: Solar Enemy (Vulnerable Radiant: 5 for S11 and T11
Standard: Angelic Echelon (close burst: 3, affecting R11, S11 and T11),(hits R11 for 14hp of radiant damage (wasn't in range of solar enemy, but was hit)(hits S11 and T11 for 12hp of radiant damage, that being half damage plus the full 5 for radiant vulnerability)

22:00, Today: Kbenjar rolled 19 using 1d6+15.  damage.
22:00, Today: Kbenjar rolled 8 using 1d20+3.  Angelic Echelon on T11 -v- will.
21:59, Today: Kbenjar rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Angelic Echelon on S11 -v- will.
21:59, Today: Kbenjar rolled 21 using 1d20+3.  Angelic Echelon on R11 -v- will.

Ignatz roars in frustration as his rampage is stalled by these kobolds' foul tricks. He immediately crouches and begins tearing at the sticky substance binding his feet, eyes locked on the slinger the whole time.

OOC:
Standard: Second Wind, +2 defenses, spending a surge to get to 29/29 hp (since I had 2 temp hp, the 9 damage only brought me down to 22/29)

This message was last edited by the player at 13:37, Fri 02 Dec 2016.

This message was deleted by the player at 02:59, Sat 03 Dec 2016.

True, I made a blunder there. Will edit.

Malphurious sung his flail again, trying to swipe two of the kobolds, but the damned trees were in the way again.

OOC: Cleave on T10 misses but he was marked for last turn.
08:20, Today: Malphurious rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  cleave vs DS @ T10 AC18.

This message was last edited by the player at 14:22, Mon 05 Dec 2016.

"Yikes!"

Warfryn was not expecting that.  Before the stunned eyes of anyone around him he faded from sight.


19 damage.  Automatically Fades Away and becomes invisible till he attacks or till end of his next turn

Saskan is worried about his uncle after the vicious hit he took, hoping to bolster and inspire him, he issues forth his dragonbreath and though the dragon shields all seem to be ready to hop out of the way, his allies feel the confidence to attack with renewed vigor. He says to his uncle, "Stay in the game, teach these kobolds what a true dragon born is made of."

OOC: Minor - Dragonbreath; Move - Get closer if need be; Standard - Inspiring Word.
Malph can spend a surge and get + 1d6 hp; Malph, Warfryn and Kbenjar get +1 to hit and +5 to damage until the end of my next turn.
20:42, Today: Saskan rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Dragon breath to hit shield 3.
20:41, Today: Saskan rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Dragon breath to hit shield 2.
20:41, Today: Saskan rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Dragon breath to hit shield 1.

The smaller kobolds shift and peek out, chargin with the tiny sowrds at Saskan and dig a few wounds into his scaly skin, being up close with him now.

The kobold with the bow shoots yet another shot at Ignatz and yet again, hits his leg with a sticky substance that keeps him grounded. He will have to work to get through it and the aching it caused!

Malph recieves aid, but is in dire straights as the three dragonshields advance on him, only one striking home but causing him to become bloodied, while they remain close to him, prepared to end him where he stands! With Warfryn gone they remain a tad puzzled but alert to it.

---

NEW ROUND!

Rolls:
^{10:00, Today: Storyteller rolled 6 using 1d6+5.  damage.
10:00, Today: Storyteller rolled 22,5 using 1d20+8,1d6.  Ranged slinger attack and effect.
09:56, Today: Storyteller rolled 27,14,10 using 1d20+7,1d20+7,1d20+7.  Dragonshield vs ac x3 Malph.
09:55, Today: Storyteller rolled 23,20 using 1d20+7,1d20+7.  Minion attack.}

Enemy	HP	AC	F	R	W	Current conditions:	Effects/ongoing:
Tunneler	1/1	15	12	14	12	Shifty. Minion
Slinger	24/24	13	12	14	12	Special shot, Shifty
Dragonshield	36/36	18	14	13	13	Shifty, Tactics(Dirty/Dragonshield	14/36,22/36,24/36

Minions charge out of woods, Striking <b>Saskan, both hitting for a total of 8 damage.
All dragonshields strike Malph, hitting for 12 damage.

Also Malph, I see no rolls, so you are currently at 2 HP.
29-19-12 =2
However:
Malph can use a surge and get 1d6+3 extra Hp from is as per Gevarn.
Malph can spend a surge and get + 1d6 hp;
Both can be used for free this round!!!

The slinger strikes a new shot(2/3 used) and again hit Ignatz for 6 damage and he is immobilized (save ends). - Remember to roll save on your turn!

MAP: https://docs.google.com/drawin...Y6wdaYoFbJU6VCQ/edit

Imbued by Saskan's bolstering breath, Malph unleashes his own flames, wounding one and killing another. "We need to break their shield wall apart!" Malph commented, noticing the kobold shield wall increased their effectiveness.

OOC: Last turn's healing word gave me 10+3, so I'm back up to 15...still bloodied, but just barely.  With DB Fury and Bolster, I get +2 to hit which negates the cover.  Breath attack wounds T10 for 11 (+5 from bolstering breath was nice!) and the minion at U12 dies as well.  Serpent's coil misses. Then hit up Gevarn for another heal, now I'm back up to full.

Minor: Breath
Standard: Serpent's Coil - misses
Move: N/A
Free: Gevarn's heal

08:22, Today: Malphurious rolled 3 using 1d6.  healing word bonus.
08:28, Today: Malphurious rolled 7,16,15 using 1d20+6,1d20+6,1d20+6.  Dragon breath S10, T10, U12.
08:29, Today: Malphurious rolled 20,15,26 using 1d20+6,1d20+6,1d20+6.  damage. ignore, forgot to delete the manually entered dice.
08:29, Today: Malphurious rolled 11 using 1d6+9.
08:40, Today: Malphurious rolled 12 using 1d10+8.  serpents coil vs T10 .
08:41, Today: Malphurious rolled 9 using 1d6+3.  heal from Gevarn.

Ignatz breaks free from the kobold's binding resin just as another batch lands at his feet and thickens again. Wild with frustration, Ignatz screams and pulls a heavy javelin from the quiver on his back. He throws it with all his weight, falling forward onto all fours and finally breaking free of the gunk in the process. He looks up, grinning toothily, in time to see his javelin graze the kobold's shoulder.

OOC:
Minor   : Draw Javelin
Standard: RBA HIT Slinger AC 13 for 5 damage

Status:
HP 23/29 HS 9/10 AP 0
SAVED vs immobilization
Used: Swift Charge, Desperate Fury, 1/4 Javelins

12:59, Today: Ignatz rolled 20 using 1d20.  Save vs immobilize.
12:59, Today: Ignatz rolled 5 using 1d6+4.  Javelin damage.
12:58, Today: Ignatz rolled 13 using 1d20+7.  RBA (Javelin) vs Slinger AC 13.

In an effort to distract the enemy long enough to get out of range, Warfryn used his power to create the sound of a person charging through the brush behind the kobolds.

Then, finally free of the immobilizing power, Warfryn backed away, relying on his invisibility and his distracting cantrip to keep him safe.

"Now!"  he thought, as he launched a blast of power at the nearest deagonshield.  But once again his blast fizzled.

"Damn!"

Saskan called out to his uncle, "That one holds his shield too low, hit him high and you will finish him."

Having issued, the order, Saskan took a step back to the road. He wanted to open a lane should he need to get to the other side of the boulders quickly using the road.



OOC:
Move: Move a step towards the road
Standard: Commander's Strike
Malph gets a melee basic attack +3 damage. I'm assuming Malph gets the +1 to hit and +5 damage from my breath, plus the extra bonus damage, so if he hits, he should destroy this dragonshield...

His confidence rising with his breath attack and Saskan's tactical advice, his flail strikes home on the wounded Kobold warrior.

OOc: hit for 15, posting on phone cant copy.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:14, Tue 06 Dec 2016.

Kbenjar takes a step away from the melee and calls down a ring of glowing blades to cut his foes to shread. Some of the blades turn into small shields that protect his friends.

Move: shift to U8
Standard: Blades of Astral Fire centred on T9 (S10 and T10 takes 22hp of radiant damage each, and both Malfurious and Warfryn get +2 power bonus to their AC UEONT)

07:55, Today: Kbenjar rolled 22 using 1d6+20.  damage.
07:54, Today: Kbenjar rolled 17 using 1d20+6.  Blades of Astral Fire on T10 -v- ref.
07:53, Today: Kbenjar rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Blades of Astral Fire on S10 -v- ref.
07:53, Today: Kbenjar rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  Blades of Astral Fire on S9 -v- ref.

In a surge of radiant light and blades swinging, the battlefield has turned.
But one kobold warrior, the slinger and a single tunneler remain - fighting to their end, but not for long. The slinger shoots a powdered arrow at Ignatz which hits him and ignites!
It burns, but lightly only against his skin that turns red.
The small tunneler strikes with his sword at Saskan, causing a small wound to his scaly flesh.
The heavily wounded dragonshield strikes at Maplh but misses just, his fate seemingly sealed.

---

NEW ROUND!

Rolls:

^{09:31, Today: Storyteller rolled 16,22 using 1d20+7,1d20+6.  to hit.
09:27, Today: Storyteller rolled 19,4,9 using 1d20+8,1d6,1d6+5.  Slinger, effect, poss damage.}

Enemy	HP	AC	F	R	W	Current conditions:	Effects/ongoing:
Tunneler	1/1	15	12	14	12	Shifty. Minion
Slinger	19/24	13	12	14	12	Special shot, Shifty
Dragonshield	XX/XX	18	14	13	13	Shifty, Tactics(Dirty/Dragonshield	00/36,00/36,02/36

Effects & damage:
Ignatz is hit for 9 damage, and takes ongoing 2 fire damage (save ends).
Saskan takes 4 damage.


MAP: https://docs.google.com/drawin...Y6wdaYoFbJU6VCQ/edit

With Saskan's tactical commands and bolstering breath imbuing both himself and Kbenjar with extra potency, the tide of the battle turned in the favor of the newly formed company.  As the kobold warriors began to fall before him, Malphurious lashed out again, knocked the warrior in front of him down.

As he moved to support his nephew, he suggests towards Kbenjar and Warfryn, "It looks like that damned slinger is tying up Ignatz, give him some help!  We got this one."

OOC: Hit for 9, it dies. Move to flank the minion for Saskan (only 2 of 5 movement used).

07:33, Today: Malphurious rolled 9 using 1d8+4.  damage.
07:32, Today: Malphurious rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  footwork lure + 6 [8-2 (cover)] vs AC18.

Though only wounded a tad, Saskan is caught off guard by the diminutive kobold. His return attack slashes just over the kobold's head and he curses to himself for not letting his uncle take him out instead.

OOC: Why didn't I let Malph do this for me?!?!?!
Standard: Melee basic attack
08:43, Today: Saskan rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Melee basic attack.

OOC: Give who some help now? ;)

Ignatz shows no sign that he's even aware of the flames licking at his skin. As the explosive explodes against his chest Ignatz is already in motion, a terrifying demon of yellow eyes and the stench of burning hair, hurtling toward the slinger. That horrifying sight was the kobold's last.

OOC:
None    : Gain 5 temp hp upon being Bloodied

Standard: Howling Strike HIT Slinger AC 24 with Furious Assault for 19 damage

Status:
HP 14/29+3thp HS 9/10 AP 0
Ongoing 2 fire damage, Bloodied
Used: Swift Charge, Desperate Fury, Furious Assault, Half-Orc Resilience, 1/4 Javelins

09:03, Today: Ignatz rolled 6 using 1d20.  Save vs ongoing damage.
09:03, Today: Ignatz rolled 2 using 1d6.  Howling Strike extra damage.
09:02, Today: Ignatz rolled 17 using 4d6+4, rerolling ones.  Howling Strike weapon damage w/FA.
09:01, Today: Ignatz rolled 24 using 1d20+8.  Howling Strike (Charge) vs Slinger AC 13.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:12, Wed 07 Dec 2016.

The last kobold falls and Gevarn sighs of relief.
"Great heroes indeed. Chauntea be praised. Let's make haste and rest safely, for the roads are not safe, and I fear we have more to come.."
The rumors of roaming bandits, and greenskins had some truth to it, at least so it seemed.
Such was, if not tamed, horrid for trade and the general safety of the land.
By his decree and due to it being midday, you had time enough to rest up, being slightly past midday.

--Once you set out--
You continue down the King’s Road to Winterhaven. A day passes, and you encounter little aside from local fauna and sparse animals crossing.
After yet another mile it seems, you see smoke on the horizon. A little while later you round a corner in the road and look down into a clearing: A small farmhouse has been burnt to
the ground, its ruins still sending a trail of smoke into the air.
Over the next few miles you see several more isolated farms like this one, all destroyed.
Abruptly you find yourself at the end of the King’s Road: It crosses a north-south road and then runs up a broad hill that holds a walled village that must be Winterhaven. The village is nestled in the southern foothills of the Cairngorm Peaks. The walls are weathered stone topped by defensive palisades.
To the south and the west you can see rolling farmland with small, thatched homes fronting a small pasture or crop. Beyond the farms lie dark woods and, to the north, tall mountain peaks.

Running ahead of the group as he usually does, Ignatz tries to find any clues as to who has been burning farms. He searches the ashes for footprints, dropped equipment or goods that might not usually be found on a farm, non-humanoid remains, and the like. He keeps his searches quick to avoid slowing down the group's overall pace- perhaps too quick to do much good.

OOC:
00:58, Today: Ignatz rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  Perception.

Kbenjar takes his rest in good spirits after the fight, and is ready and quickly to his feet when it is time to continue on.

"Gervan, are kobolds common in this area.  You mentioned this path was plagued by greenskins and the like, but not kobolds," Malphurious asked, the acolyte as the continued towards Winterhaven.

Gevarn nodded.
"Many rumored sights of them. They are a hassle and few know why the have risen in numbers. I know the Lord is curious onto their appearance thought. Perhaps if you can manage, he would be advisable to talk to."
He eyed the lot of them and sighed a tad.
"Listen - Winterhaven is not the place it used to be. People are somewhat distant to foreigners, and you may not be greated with as open arms as you anticipate - perhaps there is more under the sun than I know of here, but I sense the tension and discontent."
He points ahead as the gates appear.
"If you are to stay, even shortly, I suggest you head the only place open - Wrafton’s Inn."
He hands you a small pouch as an offering for a days worth of lodging and food for you all.

OOC: As you enter town, you know little, but to avoid skill challenges here, simply use skills actively if you wish to gather information or similar.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:59, Fri 09 Dec 2016.

Legend:
The below is seen as what Gevarn briefly tells you of the city.

1) Outer Gate and Walls - Open by day, closed and barred at night, the outer gate is
policed by two guards regardless of the hour.
2) Wrafton’s Inn - This spacious inn and tavern serves as the public house
for the region. Like alehouses everywhere, Wrafton’s Inn offers beer, wine, and, on occasion, spirits. Meals are served for those with the coin, and beds for travelers are
available. A crowd of villagers gathers each night to drink, gossip, sing, and play games of chance.
3) Market Square - Every other day or so, carts and wagons gather in the
square and offer goods to the people of Winterhaven.
(On any given day, there is a 50% chance that items from the adventuring gear list in the Player’s Handbook are available for sale here.)
4) Stables - Travelers -can stable their mounts here for 2 sp per day.
Rarely (10% chance), the stable master has a riding horse or wagon for sale.
5) Smithy - A dwarf named Thair Coalstriker owns the village smithy.
You can purchase a variety of mundane wares here, including spikes, weapons, heavy armor, and so on. Simple weapons are readily available, but military weapons require one day to complete, and superior weapons require a week of work.
6) Valthrun’s Tower - This five-story structure is the highest building in Winterhaven.
The tower is rumored to be over 300 years old, and Valthrun the Prescient is its most recent resident. Sells rituals.
7) Bairwin’s Grand Shoppe - Bairwin Wildarson traveled the world, or so he claims,
before setting up shop in Winterhaven ten years ago.
Special: Anything off the list of adventuring gear shown in the Player’s Handbook.
He occasionally has a few 1st-level magic items for sale(25%), and he sometimes has a couple of potions of healing available in the shop.(50%).
8) Warrior Guild - Winterhaven villagers can join the Warrior Guild and train, once per week, in basic sword and shield skills.
Rond Kelfem, captain of the Winterhaven Regulars, also oversees the Warrior Guild.
9) Tenements - The large tenement structure features apartments for the village residents who don’t own farms or who work in the businesses within the walls.
10) Temple - This large stone structure is the village temple. Of the several deities worshiped by locals, Avandra, goddess of luck and change, is the most prominent.
The temple priest, Sister Linora, runs services in the temple three times per week, but otherwise she is not often present. Graveyard belongs to the temple, located a short distance south of the walled town.
Special: Linora knows the following rituals: gentle repose, cure disease, and raise dead.
11) Inner Gate - This gate is closed and guarded by two Winterhaven guards during the daytime. They sternly regard anyone who approaches and question all who wish to visit Lord
Padraig in his manor without an appointment.
12) Winterhaven Siege Supplies - Though it hasn’t happened in a couple of years, on occasion
Winterhaven comes under attack from bands of goblins, kobolds, or even gnolls. When such an event happens, the villagers seek refuge inside the walled keep and subsist on the supplies of water, flour, and other basic foodstuffs stored here.
13) Winterhaven Barracks - This military-style barracks is home to Winterhaven’s ten professional guards, the Regulars. During the day, only two can be found here; the other eight are on patrol.
14) Manor House - This grand manor home was built when Winterhaven was an outpost of the Nerath Empire. Staffed by five servants, the manor house where Lord Padraig, his wife, and their four sons live is a beautiful example of stone architecture in a village otherwise composed of thatch and wood.

On the region:
FARMS: There are a couple dozens farms in the area immediately around Winterhaven
(primarily to the south and west of the city). However, most of the local farmers are
located about five miles southwest of the city.

TRADE: There is a large city (Fallcrest) about three dozen leagues distant along the
King’s Road to the east and a smaller city (Wintermist) on the road north out of
Winterhaven. As a result, the village is something of a natural nexus for trade – despite
being located in the shadow of the Cairngorm Peaks.

As the road weary Malphurious neared the gates of Winterhaven he gave a heavy sigh.  "I need a hot tea and a warm bed tonight.  I'm back will be aching for a week after that trip," he commented, giving his lower back a rub.

"Wrafton's Inn sounds lovely," he responded to Gervan's offering.  "After we have had a chance to rest, it seems we should meet with your priestess, Sister Linora?"

Ignatz fidgets a little as they pass through the city gates. "Hy been here before, dun like it too much. Somebody tries to kill de orc, and then hey, somebody else sees me killin' somebody, and then dere's pitchforks and hy've lost my hat," Ignatz rambles.

"I'll be able to put some more whiskey in my skin, that fer sure," Kbenjar says with an eager smile as they head into Winterhaven.

Warfryn looks a little alarmed at Ignatz's words.

" I hope they don't object to gnomes " he said quietly.  Let's get to this inn as quickly as possible."

With that he almost disappeared into the shadows of the building as he waited for the others to lead the way.

"Oh come now Warfryn, does anyone ever truly object to little invisible men? Now Uncle Malph and I have been turned away on many occasion. It must have something to do with our... look."

"I agree though a warm bed is just what my young bones are begging for."

Gevarn nods, and shows you the way.
You notice eyes on you constantly, and doors being shut once you pass. There is a strong sense of discontent in the air and the muffled speaking hints of unsatisfied villagers murmuring about local events. They turn away from you once you come near.
^{OOC: Streetwise or diplomacy can naturally be used along with any fitting skill if you wish to learn more about events.}

You enter the spacious inn and tavern known as Wraftons's Inn, named after Salvana Wrafto, the proprietor.
Gevarn advises that Meals are served for those with the coin, and beds for travelers are
available.
Salvana appears to you as a friendly and open younger woman with lightly colored hair, quick with a smile and a warm welcome.
She smiles broadly and speaks boisterously. "Ah Gevarn! You brought friends! Welcome to my humble establishment! Food? Drinks? What can I aid you with?"
And elderly man, whom appears rugged and weather worn nods.
Gevarn greets him. "Eilian - how are the fields?" He shrugs and lifts his shoulders.
"Still hoping for the best. Have you hear from Sara?"
Gevarn shrugged.

In the corner, deep in a book, sits a man dressed in fine silks, and with a white beard, trimmed well. He looks distinguished and knowledgeable.
As you remain, a man suddenly enter. Everyone rises, and nods to him, calling him "Lord".
He nods. He appears as a man of medium height and middling years. His brown hair is thinning, but he still cuts a trim and handsome figure in clothes of rural finery.
His face is open and friendly. Gevarn points.
"Lord Padraig - the current head of town. A rare visit, given the current situation here."
He eyes you - you stand out both in terms of what you wear and how you appear in this rural town.
He extends his hand.
"Welcome to Winterhaven. I wish that you might have come at a more auspicious
time. You appear capable, so do I hope you come to our aid - if so, do let me know! I will reward your aid greatly."
The farmer sighs but hides his discontent.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:27, Mon 12 Dec 2016.

Kbenjar is the first to take the Lord's hand and shake it vigorously. "As long as yer problems travel with Gevern's problems, we should be able ter kill two birds with one stone, yer Lordship. That, and if you could p'raps put some whiskey on the bar for thirsty 'venturers," he says with a very unkempt smile.

Warfryn bowed towards the Lord.

"Sir.  It is in fact the case that we are here for our own purposes.  But our conversations with Gevarn have given us much information on your problems here.  It seems to me..." he waved his arm to indicate the others "...and my friends, that we will do whatever we can to aid you in your troubles.  It may even be that we find our paths lie together."


18:52, Today: Warfryn rolled 30 using 1d20+11.  Diplomacy.

Malphurious bows to the Lord and quickly ushers Saskan to do the same.  "We are humble warriors on the road to deliver Bahamut's divine wisdom to those in need.  I am sure we can assist.  Pray tell, Gervan has alluded to troubles, but we are lacking in specifics.  What troubles plague your realm?"

OOC: Aiding on Warfryn.

Saskan took the queue from his uncle and bowed greatly showing his humility and willingness to be vulnerable before a proper lord.

OOC: 23:10, Today: Saskan rolled 20 using 1d20+7. Diplomacy Aid (not that Warfryn needs it).

Ignatz's rough bow is a laughably poor imitation of the others'. He keeps to the rear of the group hoping his clumsiness will go unnoticed, but of course as his allies all bow Ignatz's considerable bulk is all the more visible.

Swayed by your words, the Lord nods.
"I do hope so, for see it has come to my attention that amidst it all, twenty one of my citizens are missing, taken by a dark cult which is rumored to be in town, but of we have yet to discover anything about. Further we fear the recent presence of Kobolds may also either tie in to this or be of concerning nature. We simply do not know nor have the man power so I urge you, can you determine this for me and I will reward you with the sum of 500 gold pieces for your aid, should you uncover the cults activity and bring back the citizens to safety."

Gevarn nodded to himself. It tied well into what he asked of you.
He feared the presence of a cult. So did the Lord, and the rod of ruin was still a curious notion.
You recall your initial task:

quote:

A survivor and witnessed a small group of death cultists steal the Rod and then leave for Winterhaven. He heard a name being mentioned, a name he thought was the name of the dangerous and twisted high priest of the cult - Kalarel.
They suspects that this Kalarel has set up a secret cult in the area and is conducting unholy ceremonies, and fears what he might do with the Rod.
She asks you to travel to Winterhaven, determine if there is any death cult activity in the area and, if so, to stamp it out and bring back the Rod of Ruin.

Something was amiss here, and before you spoke the old Farmer voiced up.
"They took Sara too, I am sure!"
The Lord calmed him down.
"I am sure these able adventurers will find her! For now, I urge you do this. Find out if my town is safe, and if anything leads you onward to those missing."

Gervarn piped in.
"I reckon we need to investigate in town first. Ask about, learn about what the eyes of those here have seen and determine next steps. Right now, it is all uncertain."

OOC: Should you agree, it will likely trigger a fact finding mission for you, which we will do in the shape of a simple skill challenge.

"So if we are to ask around, look into things" said Warfryn "then the sooner we start the better.  I am quite good at chatting to folk, ferreting out little secrets and the like.  So I think I will just go sit at a tavern or the like and just chat to folk."

Provided no one objects, or that a different plan is accepted, the gnome sets off.

(later...at an outside table)(general chatting)

"I've been hearing that some of the townsfolk have gone missing; terrible, isn't it?  I wonder what's caused that; maybe magic of some kind?"


22:01, Today: Warfryn rolled 24 using 1d20+9.  STreetwise check.

Kbenjar spends his available time in the inn keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. After a few tankards of whiskey he begins to chatter with the locals to see if anything sounds out of place.

09:17, Today: Kbenjar rolled 18 using 1d20+10.  Not sure, either perception or Insight (maybe the  latter), both are +10.

Ignatz stays quiet until the group is conferring among themselves. Oddly subdued, he tells the others, "Hy tink hy's gonna go check out de farms and such outside ov town, see vhat dey's got to say. Meet hyu guyz here in a few days!"

He roams the surrounding farmlands, making good time simply by jogging without stopping. He looks for farmholds that have clearly suffered harm, and takes great pains to appear nonthreatening and offer his help.

OOC: Not sure what I should roll here!

quote:

OOC: Not sure what I should roll here!

Disguise!!  Hee hee

A gruff selection of people eyed the gnome and few speak to him.
One does however...a younger man, with a brisk glare and short wavy hair.
"Buy me a drink..I shall fill in the blanks. People are a tad surly, you know with the rationing and all."
He eyes Kbenjar and notices that he may not be up to speed.
"Yeah, you have not heard of that. You are new here, and well...people ain't too friendly these days. You know with a cult in town, people gone missing - including my aunt Sara. People call her old Sara but she ain't THAT old I swear! Anyways, word is that the farmers are hoarding food. Due to the attacks and safe roads. As a city of trade, this is urgent for us! There are also rumors that Lord Padraig is still feasting in his manor while he leaves the villagers to starve. The Regulars won’t do anything about it, because they’re receiving extra food from Padraig, too."
He shrugged thought, rumors and all, but he gets quite some eyes from the other guests, talking about it. He returns.
"Listen, my aunt went missing from her home, not long ago, unseen. Can you check around, and see if you come across her or find any trace of her disappearance? Might want to start at her home."
A man turns and pipes in.
"Old Sara and her husband used to own the store were Bairwin now resides, remember?
It used to be an old pottery but Sara sold the store to Bairwin when her husband died several years ago. Shame about that, good man, friend of mine. Old Sara always passed by the store on her morning and evening walks to the market."
The young man added. "Yeah - Otherwise she never left her home, which makes her  disappearance even stranger."

Elsewhere, Warfryn manages to sweettalk a local waitress, whom dons her best smile answering his question, where again, few others bother nor risk it.
The story of the rationing and recent events of missing people repeats.
She does detail the following new bits:
- Valthrun the Prescient is the village sage and lives nearby in a tall tower, if not at the Wraftons Inn, at his usual table.
- He knows quite a bit on recent events, rumors, relics, ruins and the likes.
- The kobolds have been attacking travelers on the roads regularly.
A few weeks ago livestock started being stolen. Just over the past few days, however, several isolated farms have been attacked and destroyed. Those lucky enough to survive such attacks have fled to the village.
She heard Eilian the Old, an elderly farmer and local prognosticator state, that this type of raiding has happened before... but he also admitted it’s never been this bad before.
They aren’t talking about it, but people are worried that things are about to get a lot
worse. Farmers from the southern farms haven’t been coming to market. Food is running
out.

Ignatz is met with contempt many places, and his sights on the farms is harrowing.
Many associate him with the green terror, the kobolds and hobgoblins roaming the lands, and despite his best efforts few react well, associating him with the threat.
He comes upon a farm whom has received minor damage. An elderly farmer, and his son, tending the animals outside.
He speaks broadly of the attacks. Frequent and organized and the terror it brought to the lands. They are run by someone, for they strike focused and with intent, unlike what he had seen in the past. As you speak, signs of combat and struggle ring nearby.
You hear barking and yelling and a door slamming. The farmer and his son flees, but you notice the outline of a caravan being assaulted before your very eyes. A dwarf, yielding a large warhammer stands atop with a younger dwarf, armed with a crossbow, standing within, holding off quite afew of them. It would you take you a good spring to get there fast.

As Warfryn also voices curiousity about the missing people, Ninaran - The elven hunter appears.
She seems suspicious at first.
"Why are you so interested in these kobolds? You looking for trouble?"

Ignatz reacts instantly, charging toward the fray on foot, weapon drawn.

OOC: If I double run until I get close and then move+charge once I'm in range I'm moving 80 feet every six seconds, so if I'm already close enough to see that two dwarves are defending the caravan I should make it there in less than a minute. Can I see what is attacking them?

The dwarf roars, exposing a large twohanded hammer which he swings with terrible force down upon one, smashing it to bits outright.
The Hammer is adorned with intriguing symbols, which depict some sort symbolism which a trained eye could likely know more of.
<Orange>Religion: DC 12.</Orange>
The wagon's front right wheel is smashed and would require some work to fix, and in the midst of it all, you notice a stronger kobold appear, the leader of the small selection, making his way towards the dwarf and his son.
You arrive in the nick of time and see three smaller kobolds appear in front of you.

OOC: See this as a "theater of the mind" combat. Hence, no map for this, as it is mainly for story, but consist of 3 kobold minions, as before, and one dragon shield. Roll and state your actions, as they are all surrounding the same wagon and within reach.

Enemy	HP	AC	F	R	W	Current conditions:	Effects/ongoing:
Tunneler	1/1	15	12	14	12	Shifty. Minion
Dragonshield	36/36	18	14	13	13	Shifty, Tactics(Dirty/Dragonshield

This message was last edited by the GM at 10:02, Tue 27 Dec 2016.

Ignatz recognizes the symbols on the hammer, but the fact that there are symbols on the hammer at all doesn't register at all for the moment. In this particular moment, Ignatz is just a big cat with several mice in his field of vision. He leaps from one kobold to another, leaving three bloody, twisted wrecks in his wake in a matter of seconds.

OOC:
Standard: Howling Strike HIT Tunneler AC 23
Free    : Swift Charge (HS) HIT Tunneler AC 15
Spend AP: Howling Strike HIT Tunneler AC 20

FWIW Ignatz gains 2 temp hp

10:35, Today: Ignatz rolled 14 using 1d20-1.  Religion check cause why not.
10:34, Today: Ignatz rolled 20 using 1d20+8.  AP Howling Strike vs Tunneler AC 15.
10:34, Today: Ignatz rolled 15 using 1d20+8.  Swift Charge HS vs Tunneler AC 15.
10:34, Today: Ignatz rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  Howling Strike (Charge) vs Tunneler AC 15.

Malphurious discusses options with Saskan.  "Should we head to the Fighter's Guild?  We can get a work out in and talk with some of the local guardsmen.  Maybe we can learn something of import?"

Furiously the dwarf pounds his hammer down on the foe, whom crackle as his hammer almost ignites thunderous sounds from it's base.
Ignatz notices that the marks are those of the Iridescent guard, a powerful order of dwarven knights healing from the far eastern realms. A strange sight here.
The dragonshield jumps back, while Ignatz carves a path of destruction before him.
Remaining at the end is the lone dragonshield, quite hurt and alone against those before him.

OOC: Dragonshield left and on 22 hp.

Ignatz laughs wildly, blood-drunk, as he circles the last kobold. The terrible blow he levels at this last target heralds death- though the wary kobold manages to catch the blow on its shield, the weight behind is still enough to fracture bone. Ignatz grins, sharp teeth glistening.

OOC:
Move    : flank Dragonshield
Standard: Thunder Hooves Rage MISS AC 13 for 14 damage

06:54, Today: Ignatz rolled 29 using 6d6+4, rerolling ones.  Thunder Hooves Rage damage.
06:53, Today: Ignatz rolled 13 using 1d20+9.  Thunder Hooves Rage vs Dragonshield AC 18 w/CA.

With the blow to kobold, it contemplates escape, only to be met by a heavy hammer to the side, ending it on it's feet.
The Dwarf rises.
"Hails - ye fought well. I am Terrik Sabanar and this is my son, Alric. Well met and thank ye for yer help! What be ye name?"

He takes out a small cloth and wipes the head of the hammer, before jumping down.
His son begins to mend the wheel with hammers and what he has available, and it is obvious that the kid is very talented and skilled.
He nods and barks under his tongue.
"Lousy Kobolds..been pestering me for weeks! The farmers southwest of Winterhaven have been cut off from the village by these bloody kobolds. Nay I say - I be damned if I can't deliver my goods, and aid the city. They are starving and are in need of it! Hell, I don't know how much longer they can stretch what they have. The trade routes and roads suffer from all these attacks recently I say."

In reply to Malphurious (msg # 71):

Saskan nodded to his uncle and said, "Lead the way old man..."

Saskan and Malphurious strode through the fortified town towards the Warrior's Guild.  As they entered, Malphurious was looking for a man fitting Rond Kelfem's description.  He was the head of the city guard, and would likely have information about some of the local threats, including the kobold menace and the kidnapping cultists.

"We are Malphurious and Saskan, warriors enlisted by Gevarn to help with some of the threats ailing your fair town.  We're looking for Rond Kelfem," he said to those inside.

Kbenjar makes a mental note of all he hears from the locals and decides to hunker down in a corner with a large tankard of rum until his companions return.

"Hahaaw, dot vas great!" Ignatz guffaws. He slaps the dwarf on the shoulder and offers his hairy, clawed hand. "Hyu can call me Ignatz. Hy'z vit some folks Padraig hired to fix trouble- Ve heard some folk'z been goin' missing, hy saw signs of fightin' out here in de hills, hy figure mebbe dere's some connection. Vhen did dese kobolds start harassing hyu folkz?"

A man barks out.
"Who seeks me? I am Rond! Better not be another quarrel about food, now!...Or does damn Kobolds..."
He seemed agitated.
----
Elsewhere, Ignatz noticed the two Dwarfs were a friendly bunch.
The dwarf listened intently to Ignatz scramble speech and answered.
"Heh..started a few weeks back. Increased in numbers. Almost as if they made base here - but why would they? Something is behind it I am sure. This is why we are on the road - the food we have is needed in town to stave off further attacks. Perhaps we can follow eachother and discuss this? I would like a word with Padraig meself - came across something of note he might like. Care to join us?"
He notices that the cart is almost ready.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:17, Mon 02 Jan 2017.

Warfryn immediately cowered back from the hunter's attitude.

"Er!  Sorry!  Me and some companions met a guy called Gevarn.  He told us about the town's troubles and asked us to help.  Then we met some kibolds along the road..."

His voice died off as he stared up at the elf.  "Is it a problem, like?"


OOC: Sorry for any delay.  Been really busy with family over the holidays.

Warriors Guildhall

Malphurious stood tall and turned to the man who called himself Rond.  "Well met Captain.  I am Malphurious, and this is my nephew Saskan.  We are warriors, like yourself, traveling on a pilgrimage for Bahamut to help those in need and confront evil where we find it."

"Gevarn asked us to help investigate the cultists.  But we also encountered some kobolds laying in wait.  I can imagine the kobolds are stymieing whatever trade flows through here," the aged Dragonborn continued.

"We'd like to work together Captain.  The others of our group are warriors too, but not soldiers.  We are, and we respect your authority over martial matters here in Winterhaven.  We will help ensure that our group works within whatever bounds you deem appropriate and will freely share any intelligence we gather."

The elven hunter shifts lightly and eyes him.
"Well then...now you speak of it, I saw a a dozen or so...east and south of here, toward Gardbury Downs. Enter and exit behind a fairly large waterfall. If you are silly enough to engage them - by all means go ahead! I can draw you a map, just don't blame me for any of your shortcomings!"
If acknowledged, the elf would agree and deliver a fairly detailed map, leading to the location.
----
Rond snarled, but calmed. It seemed he partially wanted to ignore the sentiment of cultists but also knew he had to accept it.
"I see - Gevarn her merry folk of Chauntea have been spreading rumors of a cult eh? Think I would allow that? Find me proof, and I will believe it - that said, the threat of the kobolds is real to me. It harasses the flow of food, and as it stands now we are edging towards a crisis. With no food, tensions will rise and any work you can do here to prove this, would be of great use. As for the cult - shut your mouth on it, until we have solid proof. Rumors like that, as Gevarn should know full well, will spread and panic and chaos will erupt. Sure as hell don't need that right now! Again, who stated this beyond them? Sillyness, we would have found out. But by all means, investigate this also - and I will aid you with what I can, if you can prove it and don't rile up the citizens first!"
He took a breath - he was right however. So far only the church of Chauntea and Gevarn claimed that a cult was present and would openly state so, aside from the Lord himself whom stated carefully that he heard rumors about it... Rond's fears were also valid. Humble men and the claws of a dark cult would not mix - not within the cities limits more so.
"I know their leader, by rumor, might be called irontooth, but by Lathander, I know little more about where they are."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:32, Mon 02 Jan 2017.

Warfryn's breath returned to him.

"Well, thank you very much for that.  I don't yet know what my companions will decide to do but I believe sorting out those kobolds would probably be something they would enjoy.  I can tell you this..."

He dried up, realising that his mouth was running away with him.

"Ahem!  Yes thank you.  A map would be very useful."

Warriors Guild Hall

The elder Dragonborn turned to his young counterpart to ask, "If you were given a map and some points of kobold attacks and raids, do you think you could pin point their likely lair?"

Ignatz casually lifts the cart slightly while he talks, making it a little easier for the younger dwarf to put the finishing touches on the repair. "Shore, Hy ken go vit hyu to meet him. Hyu know dot priest, eh.. Gevarn? He's de vun who hired us, but hy tink he's vorkin' for Padraig? Anyvay, hyu can tolk to 'im and ve and my crew vill probably clear out dis kobold camp. Ennybody been kidnapped out here, or iz dey just pillaging?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:18, Tue 03 Jan 2017.

The hunter hands Warfryn a map and calmly states.
"Be careful. I mean, with all the rumors of weird shawody cults and whatnot."

Elsewhere, the Dwarf shrugged inititally but then calmly stated.
"Aye...gevarn of Chauntea...Nice chap, gave me housing once. Remind me to say hello when we arrive. Keep your weapons nearby. The road many still not be safe. Kidnapped though? Sounds curious and unlike common Kobolds...someone or something is behind that - I am sure."

OOC: Kbenjar - do you wish to do further with the discussion you started about Old Sara or should we simply advance?

Happy to advance....Hicc!.... :)

The two unlikely companions set off - Ignatz and his dwarven friend, towards the fair city of Winterhaven. The wheel cause you no further concern, and you arrive a few hours later, with a brisk wind blowing on your face and spirits high and mighty.
During the time, the dwarf Terrik, details of the Iridescent Guard, a powerful order of dwarven knights.
He became disenchanted with the order, however, when his superior officer seduced his
wife. Taking his infant son, Alric, Terrik left the dwarven kingdoms and came to
Winterhaven. He has adopted the simple lifestyle of a farmer and left his past behind him.
There is a certain unrest in town, and you notice disgruntled citizens wander about, only to cheer in a complete turnaround seeing you arrive.
They flock, adorning you with cheers, and asking Terrik repeatably for advise on how to keep the flow on food coming. He smiled broadly, as one can sense a golden chance to make something right at last.

Elsewhere in town, Nirrian bows to Warfryn and provides the very detailed map, vanishing shortly after, in a too him, curious manner. Still, it is of much use.
Rond seems agitated and unwilling for now to coorporate further, feeling they are wasting time on insignificant matters. The watch can take care of matters if you ask him.

---

Overview of outstanding 'Issues':
- Old Sara, provided to Kbenjar - where is she?
- Map of Kobold lair - provided to Warfryn.
- Several of you discovered a likely cause to unrest, that being lacking food in town, as supplies are prevented through repeated attacks. This is stirring up civil unrest.
- Everyone denies the cult baring the church of Chauntea, and the Lord, whom is curious but won't confirm it. Also spreading rumors of it, may have unwanted sideffects. This was learned by Malph and Saskan.
- 21 lost villagers, captured and contained somewhere uncertain.
- The lost relic of Bahamut, the rod of ruin, kept also somewhere in the area.

The approval of a large group of townspeople is utterly stunning to Ignatz, who spends about a minute just basking in the glow. Finally he can contain himself no longer, and he stands up on the cart holding his heavy crescent glaive like a standard. "Goot people, my name iz Ignatz! Hy haff come here vit my comrades, hired by Lord Padraig, to fix vhatever's goin on vit hyu town! Hy just came back from seein' vhat dose kobolds done to hyu farmers, and as soon as hy meet op with my men ve're gonna head back out to schtop dese attacks vonce and for all!" Ignatz pumps his fist to emphasize the last point of this brash and potentially unwise promise. How much of his little speech the audience was able to actually understand, he would find out momentarily.

With their visit to the Warriors Guild not very fruitful for information, Malphurious returned to the Inn. "Have you learned anything interesting?" Malphurious asked the dwarf Kbenjar.

Ignatz noticed his travel partners arrive back at the Inn they came from, Warfryn carrying a fairly large map whilst the two dragonkin spoke among themselves.
Kbenjar noticed that the younger man, with a brisk glare and short wavy hair had gone for sometime having somehow settled on pestering people about his tales of a lost woman.
It was time to decide more and the Wrafton’s Inn was surprising quiet - an ideal time to speak among themselves.

The map was very detailed, pointing to a region, east and south of here, toward Gardbury Downs. It was achievable by foot, in a days worth or so. Considering the threat of the kobolds and what not, this was advisable.

OOC: You can opt when done to "move on", just state so and we will shift scene.

---

For reference:
Overview of outstanding 'Issues':
- Old Sara, provided to Kbenjar - where is she?
- Map of Kobold lair - provided to Warfryn.
- Several of you discovered a likely cause to unrest, that being lacking food in town, as supplies are prevented through repeated attacks. This is stirring up civil unrest.
- Everyone denies the cult baring the church of Chauntea, and the Lord, whom is curious but won't confirm it. Also spreading rumors of it, may have unwanted sideffects. This was learned by Malph and Saskan.
- 21 lost villagers, captured and contained somewhere uncertain.
- The lost relic of Bahamut, the rod of ruin, kept also somewhere in the area.

Kbenjar downs his tankard of ale and looks at the map. "If'n the kobolds bin hassling the town, we should go rough 'em up," he says excitedly.

Ready to move on when everyone else is.

OOC: Just assuming that the Captain pointed out a few places of kobold raids to me and Saskan to carry on.

Malphurious and Saskan returned to the inn to find Kbenjar with his tankard in hand and a map in his face.  "Hail master dwarf," Malphurious said, as they approached.  Looking over his shoulder at the map, he continued, "Our meeting with the Captain went well.  He oversees all martial action in the area and pointed out a few places that have been hit by kobold raids," he said, pointing to various points on the map.

Saskan echoed his uncle's greetings saying, "What word have you, Kbenjar?"

Ignatz bursts through the tavern doors with Terrik, and grins broadly when he sees everyone else gathered there. "Terrik, dese are de boyz hy came here vit! Listen, hyu guys, hy uh... told de whole town ve vould find de kobolds dot haff been raiding de farms and roads so pipple ken get food. Ve got time to do that, yes?"

Kbenjar is about to respond to Saskan's inquiry when Ignatz bursts into the tavern in typical tornedo fashion. He waves a finger at Ignatz and looks to Saskan. "I 'eard we might go out to the stead of Old Sara's for some hint of the trouble, but if Ignatz has got thee 'ole town all frothed-up at the mouth to do some kobold beltn', then I think we shudd buy a small keg and go belt the kobolds!" he says swaying a little on his feet.

At the conclusion of his diatribe, Kbenjar gestures to the barkeep, his hands drawing the shape of a small keg in mid air followed by an extended thumb point towards the door.

"Agreed," Malphurious said, "The kobold menace would hamper our efforts to figure out the real problem regardless if they are connected to the suspected cultists or not.  It makes sense to put a stop to their raids, it will improve morale of the town and improve our standing as well.  With their raids, we can operate a bit more freely."

And to Kbenjar's comment about Old Sara's place, he stated, "Maybe Old Sara's homestead is on the way to the likely lair of the kobolds?  We could stop on the way?  I doubt the kobolds will pick their lair up and move it, we can certainly spare an hour or two....especially if an elderly lady is in trouble."

"The hunter that gave me the map suggested the kobolds may be hiding behind a waterfall."

The gnome pulled and twisted the map to get his bearings  "About here, I think she said it was. "

He pointed at a spot on the river.

"Aye, let's go take care of some kobolds, those spawn of Tiamat need to learn a lesson."

Kbenjar got a direction to the house. It was on the way out, and the odd fellow he spoke to mentioned a small bed of flowers in a circular pattern around a small oak tree, which could be seen from the window of it. It would stand out. The sun is set high and time is plentiful. By estimation and a brisk pace you would arrive before nightfall at the location pointed out by Warfryn, more so if you could find means of transportation.

Terrik nods to the present and turns to his new comrade.
"While I like thee chatter 'ere, I have a bone to pick with the Lord 'ere first - we need some supply lines, and now. If ye sort the buggers preventing this, that be mighty helpful however!"

Saskan nods in assent to Terik and then says to his comrades, "Douven Stahl wrote extensively about a crater to the south, one that was believed to be a burial site for dragons. I'll bet it has something to do with all these koblods. I can only imagine what the foul beasts are up to. Spawn of Tiamat..."

"Well we can check Sara's place, see where she mighta got to, thenn off to belt some kobolds," he says looking over to the bar to see if his keg is ready.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:51, Thu 19 Jan 2017.

Malphurious merely observed the exchanges, his mind elsewhere.  He waited to see what could be behind the prompt to check in on Old Sara.

--When you depart for Old Sara--

Wandering just down the street, you quickly eye the small bed of flowers in a circular pattern around a small oak tree, which is placed around the middle of the road.

The small house, initially, is long, with a simplistic front, with nothing but a door and a display window. In it, you see various trinkets, books, small items with curious looks, but uncertain origins. One could easily imagined that this apparent curiosity shop and it's content all has a history.

A sour dwarf stands nearby, muttering to himself, and eyeing the shop with discontent. He wears a leather apron, and is slightly dirty to the look, currently dragging a wagon with crude iron and wood.

The explanation doesn't quite match what you expected. This was her home? It's a shop now, and something seems off.

"That doesn't look like an old Sara," Malphurious commented, surprised by the scene ahead.  "Sara isn't a common name for your folk, is it Kbenjar?"

"Nope. But Sara's bin taken, so it surely ain't her," Kbenjar says moving closer to the dwarf. "Hail! Old Sara's still not back?" he asks of the apron-wearing grump.

The man turned.
"Sara? Nay...she sold her shop to that rascal Bairwin some time ago. Used to be a pottery. Sold it when her husband died. Haven't seen her, which is strange, she passes by each day on the way to the market. I greeted her daily at me smithy down the road. Nice lass' - shame 'ard times befelt her. Never really left home otherwise. Very strange if ye ask me!"
The dwarf was non other than Thair Coalstriker, the town smithy.

He muttered.
"Bairwin came, and overnight managed to make great way with his wares. Beats me how!
Strange it is, he arrived in town with a wagon full of junk a few years ago and has since managed to build a shop that seems constantly to acquire more merchandise and expensive items despite having few customers. I can not make logic of it!
Used to visit me store plenty also! Bought shovels, spades, and wheelbarrows. Maybe he sold them to the dwarves in the nearby hills. I don't know. Seems unlikely. Bah..I am rambling. Haven't seen her no, and wish I had. It is most strange. Perhaps they know more at the market."

Saskan didn't like what he heard, "Thair, was it, Bairwin's success wouldn't have fallen at the same time as the arrival of the kobolds, now would it? If it was close, seems the two could be related."

Kbenjar takes a step forward and rubs his chin. "Would ya be so kind as t'point da way to Sara's house? We've a mind to track her down and rescue the lass."

The dwarf shrugged.
"She usually spoke to Delphina at the markets. They be friends and all - maybe she knows more. Her house is opposite you, but doubt ye find her there. I saw her that morning, at the markets, last place to be honest I saw her."

On the question of the success, he rubbed his chin.
"Hmm..now ye mention it...perhaps it could be. Now ye mention it. Both happened a few years back and slowly rose...nothing solid thought, but it makes me ponder, scaled one"
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:52, Fri 20 Jan 2017.

Ignatz strokes his hairy chin. One can almost see the gears slowly working behind his furrowed brow. "So... ve should go find dis Bairwin and shake him down, yes?"

"Shall we head back or go forward?  If this Bairwin has knowledge of them, it could prove useful.  But he will doubtlessly deny it.  By continuing on to cleanse this land of the kobold menace, we might uncover some connection and approach him with hard evidence," Malphurious stated.

Ignatz doesn't require tremendous leaps of logic to be impressed. "Oho," he says, eyebrows raised, "Dot's pretty schmot! Hokay, so de kobolds first."

"My uncle has been known to make sense from time to time." He says with what looks to be a large grin, though it is hard to tell with such a long face. "Let's make for the spawn of Tiamat and show them a thing or two."

Kbenjar nods his agreement and waves a hand at his dwarven acquaintance. "We might be seein' yer at them markets yet, friend," he says before turning to follow the others out to do some kobold belting.