The carriage ride to the Blue Nymph is uneventful. Vendors are either shutting down or starting up, depending on their light cycle.
The carriage pulls up close to the door so you can easily slip in without much exposure to unfriendly eyes.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:29, Tue 14 Apr 2020.

Bohrhorgen disembarks, pulls open the door, holding it open for the others.
He looks around the interior at the occupants, gauging if there are any faces familiar from the other day.

Like a slack tide, the BlueNymph is empty, save one alcove on the back wall with its curtain closed. You see a scaly lizard foot just sticking out of the curtain.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:24, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

Quietly I say "Looks like I see our table!" Kinda nudge Nic and head that way.


Once we approach the booth I say greetings to both insid and take a seat. Following Nics lead of course.

11:38, Today: rchmage, for the NPC M. N. B. R. S., rolled 19 using 1d20.  Sense Motive +0, +12, +0, +13
One roll for everybody, I added each characters bonus. Time saver.


Stella stays in the carriage, as you walk into the bar, it occurs to you that you see no bartender. The door closes behind you and you hear shuffling and rustling behind the bar. The outside door opens and two burly thugs are walking in, holding clubs. One steps in and the other stays just outside the door. From behind the bar, four more thug looking types pop up, holding crossbows with clubs at their sides. “Just drop those weapons and backpacks and there won’t be a problem.” The man just inside the door says. He has both top front teeth missing so he lisps.

The group is not surprised, everyone roll initiative.

12:57, Today: Mantle rolled 12 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

"Nic are these your friends or say friends of Hustle's?"

DM:
Where about in the room are we from the front door, bar, and booth? Can we tell if its actually Flak behind the curtain? Or Can I make a perception check to see if it is?
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:55, Wed 15 Apr 2020.

14:48, Today: Bohrhorgen rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

19:18, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 6, rolled 12 using 1d20+2.
19:17, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 5, rolled 19 using 1d20+2.
19:16, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 3 using 1d20+2.
19:16, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 3, rolled 13 using 1d20+2.
19:16, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 2, rolled 20 using 1d20+2.
19:16, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 1, rolled 18 using 1d20+2.

Rolled 20 for initiative. Couldn't get it to show up in post. Trying to do at work.

Nic replies to Mantle, "Agreed, a good idea indeed to see if Hustle knows anything."

Upon encountering the newest residents, Nic shakes his head at Mantle, "Nope, not my people."

Nic then turns to address the lispy leader, whilst shielding part of his diminutive partner (Mantle) with his hand on hip and elbow protruded to the side. "Clearly you amateurs know very little of who you're dealing with, and the persons responsible for entrusting you with this task obviously care little for your well-being." Nic slowly raises his other hand, directing it to his compatriots, "Do they need a proper introduction, or might I just entice you to save yourselves the trouble and ask that you instead serve a better purpose and hear our own proposal instead? I assure you, it would be a much sweeter deal than the one promised you by engaging us, and especially in this location. Mind you, the exits are covered, and this stunt does not suprise me, however the ignorance in choice of locale does. What say you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:07, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Lispy sneers, “work for someone! The little bitch in the carriage is worth a fortune at the black market! Heard your plans last night. Get em boys!”


21:38, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Bohrhorgen, rolled 5 using 1d20.
21:37, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Mantle, rolled 26 using 1d20+8.
21:37, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Nic, rolled 23 using 1d20+7.
21:37, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Rowan, rolled 16 using 1d20+12.




Rowan is up first.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:46, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Casts bulls strength on self

Initiative order
Rowan 20
T2        20
T5        19
T1        18

T3.       13
Mantle 12
T6.       12
Nic.        8
Bohr.      6
Stella.    5
T4.         3


Thug 2, who is outside the front door, turns towards the carriage and yanks the door open.

Thug 5 levels his crossbow at Nic and shoots. He is young looking and his hands are shaking.
09:28, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 5, rolled 20 using 1d20+4.  Crossbow at Nic.
09:30, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug5, rolled 1 using 1d8.  Crossbow damage vs. Nic.

Thug1 Lispy gets ready for Bohrhorgens advance. He appears to be guarding the door.

Thug 3shoots at Bohrhorgen.
09:46, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug3, rolled 19 using 1d20+4.  Crossbow at Bohrhorgen. Almost, flat footed. I need touch attacks for him now.

Mantle is up.

Mantle move to (B5) and Casts "Web" on the four thugs behind the bar my web will cover from (C6 to C8, F6 to F8 the rest going up the wall if I can do it that way. If not it'll cover from C5 to C8, F5 to F8 sorry guys need a reflex save from Nic, Rowan, and Bohr) Need a reflex save from the 4 Thugs.


Mantle then pulls the curtain aside and says, "Behind door number one we have?!?!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Thu 16 Apr 2020.

Mantle casts a spell, rope sized strands spiral out on the wall behind and above the thugs until it engulfs them, spilling out over the bar and coming to rest right at your feet. The thugs are lost to sight in the web. The bottles on the shelves, incidentally, are held nicely in place.


11:19, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug6, rolled 7 using 1d20+2.  Dc15 web.
11:18, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug5, rolled 15 using 1d20+2.  Dc15 web.
11:18, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug4, rolled 22 using 1d20+2.  Dc 15 web.
11:17, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug3, rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Dc15 web.

Mantle pulls back the curtain, and voila! Another thug sits across from Flak and Hustle, two hand crossbows pointing, one at each of them. The thug looks over at Mantle and Flak immediately unleashes a mighty punch, his lizard claw encased in a bone claw gauntlet, glistening with acid.

11:29, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Flak, rolled 10 using 2d6+6.
11:29, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Flak, rolled 28 using 1d20+13.  Held attack, Honor Claw.

Not to be outdone, Hustle mutters a word, touches his thumbs together with fingers splayed toward the thug, darkness emits from his fingers engulfing the thug.

11:47, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Hustle, rolled 8 using 3d6.  Damage, spell.

In return, the thug in the booth pulls both triggers, bolts thunk into the wood beside Hustle and Flak.

Thug 6 breaks free from the web, moving to B 7, strands of webbing hanging from him, shriveling up as you watch.

11:56, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug6, rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Dc15 web vs. CMB +5.

Nic is now up.

Nic looks at his arm that was just grazed, and down at Mantle as he skitters off. To the thug that fired the crossbow, "So much for heeding my warning. Hey, you almost hit my friend with that! Do you really think we're going to just lay down and take this from you?" At that, Nic removes a dagger from his side, and throws it at Thug #6, the one breaking out of the web, and turning a determined and angry gaze, while shaking his head at the thug who shot at him.


Nic places a precision dagger throw on thug 6 just as he breaks out of the webbing.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:40, Mon 20 Apr 2020.

Bohrhorgen glares at Thug1, turns his head and spits.
"Last chance to get out of my way.  No?  your funeral."
Charge!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:13, Fri 17 Apr 2020.

You hear Stella shout "I'm tired of this bullshit! Prepare to die!" She pulls out her small morningstar and smashes thug 2 in the face!

19:25, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Stella, rolled 25 using 1d20+10.  Morningstar on Thug 2.

19:26, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Stella, rolled 4 using 3d6+1.  Damage on Thug 2.

"Rava take you! When do we get a break! Bohrhorgen, smash these assholes!"

Thug 4, who made his save vs. web, tries to climb out.

19:34, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  CMB +5 vs. DC 15.

A web is difficult terrain, so he manages to use his move action to get to H4, he then trains

his crossbow on Bohrhorgen. The bolt clangs off his armor, irritating Bohrhorgen even more!




Rowan is next.

Rowan, now bulked up to heroic proportions, roars in fury, pulling out his great axe and moving up next to Bohrhorgen to attack thug 1, but missing.

23:42, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Rowan, rolled 6 using 1d20+5.  Attack Thug 1.

Thug 2 yells “You bitch! That will cost you a broken arm!
He takes a swing at her with the club, but only manages to dent the coach doorframe.

You see webs moving and twisting where thug 5 is at, but he doesn't get out.

Thug 1 gives Bohrhorgen an evil grin, "I'm gonna kick your ass, stuntie."

He winds up and bounces his club off of B's armor. He suddenly doesn't look so confident.

"Hurry the hell up Rolf!" He yells at the thug trying to capture Stella.


Suddenly, Bohrhorgen sees a pretty young human lady in a short skirt, tight top, and high

heels come charging down the stairs, wielding a longsword in two hands. She charges straight

into thug 1, swinging a pretty wild attack, he leans back to keep from losing a nose.

22:35, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Kiara, rolled 11 using 1d8+9.  Damage Longsword 2 handed vs. Thug 1. Lispy looks pretty ragged.


Thug 3 tries to pull free of the webbing, thrashing frantically to no avail. "Fuck!"


Mantle is up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:00, Mon 20 Apr 2020.

Mantle Steps 5ft steps to C4 and casts Magic Missile  at T1.

The missiles hit Lispy unerringly, dropping him like a sack of potatoes.

Yelling "Rowan, Bohrhorgen you better not let BARF take my sister!!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:58, Mon 20 Apr 2020.

Flak slides out of the booth into B6 (5ft. step). Then starts unleashing on Thug 7 using his Halberd. In two deadly strokes, thug 7 is a bloody mess. Dead.

Then, in a surprise maneuver, Flak tail swipes thug 6 for 4 point of damage.

Hustle pulls a dagger out and maintains a ready posture.

Thug 6, still feeling gamey, takes a swing at a Flak with his club, missing him altogether.



Nic, Bohrhorgen,then Stella are up. Thug 1 drops to Mantles magic missile.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:01, Mon 20 Apr 2020.

Nic takes a 5 foot step to E4, seemingly amused at the feeble attempt to hold-up the group, then fidgets another dagger from his belt, and throws it at Thug 4.  The dagger skitters off the corner of the bar and clangs into the wall in front of the thug, as Nic shrugs his shoulders saying "Ooops. I dropped something." Nic strolls confidently toward Thug 4 to square G6. "I guess we'll have to just carry out the trash instead of picking it apart. Best my company not get their hands too dirty."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:40, Tue 21 Apr 2020.

5 foot step towards thug 2 over his comrade's mutilated corpse, snarling and swinging


With a meaty Smack and spray of blood Bohrhorgen plants his father's axe deep into the thug's collarbone...
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:30, Tue 21 Apr 2020.

Thug 4 steps 10 ft forward to H 6. Then takes a swing at Kiara. Hitting her for 7 damage.

Rowan is up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:14, Wed 22 Apr 2020.

Move to G5 and attacks thug 4. With a wordless scream Rowan lets fly with his mighty axe in the hope of recycling this filthy creature.     06:21, Today: Rowan rolled 18 using 1d20+7 ((11)).
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:53, Wed 22 Apr 2020.

With a satisfying 'THUNK' the mighty greataxe catches the filthy creature in it's righteous path!!!!

Thug 5 seems to have broken loose, moving towards B 8.

Kiara is up.

Kiara widens her stance to ensure good footing in her fancy shoes and swings her long sword at thug #4. 
Thinking about how incredibly uncomfortable and not even practical this out fit is, Kiara thinks: I hope it at least distracts long enough to take these thugs down.
OOC: Is adjusting your boobs a free action? If so, I do that!
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:23, Thu 23 Apr 2020.

Thug 4 gurgles blood, chokes on steel and dies.

Thug 3 thrashes, then falls still. “I surrender”

Thug 6 drops his club, “I surrender”

Thug 5 slumps his shoulders, “I surrender”

Mantle is next, if you choose to continue combat and murder in cold blood.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:26, Thu 23 Apr 2020.

Mantle steps toward Stella while casting a glance at the rest of the Thugs "Bunch of Cowards"

"You ok Sis?"

"Hey Nic you want to see if Hustle has are things and whether or not he can get anything out of these guys for us I know were on a time schedule so not sure how long we have to play interrogator with them."

Then I cast detect magic and start scanning the room.

Ok, we are dropping out of initiative. Let me know what you'd like to do. There is still a web covering half the room.

Nic kicks a thug in the ribs and shakes his head. "Now we can talk. Whether we do so, civilly, is entirely up to you. Or maybe it isn't." Nic looks to Hustle, nodding his reassurance. "Let's move somewhere a little more discreet than on this level."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:48, Fri 24 Apr 2020.

Bohrhorgen glances through the open door to the carriage, "Are you okay, Lady?"

He turns slightly to survey the room, wide eyed looks Kiara over "Well, missy, this is certainly... a side of you we've never seen before. Best put those things away before somebody gets hurt."

Bohrhorgen pulls his shackles from his handy haversack, looks at them and counts thugs...

"I suppose a few of you will have to share.  Heh, heh, heh."

There are muffled noises coming from under the bar, but the web is in the way. The three thugs are looking wide eyed at Bohrhorgen.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:14, Fri 24 Apr 2020.

Kiara moves to stand guard on the Thugs. She is ready to strike if needed. I think some clockwork tools would come in handy. Happy to see her companions fairing well, she seems to be surveying the situation. Hearing  Bohrhorgen snaps her out of it, Chuckling she responds Dont get used to it lad.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:54, Fri 24 Apr 2020.

"Mantle what's under the bar?"

Stella exits the coach, “It seems like I need to stay within 5 ft. of you every moment we’re in public. My thanks yet again. “ She looks over the 3 thugs and sniffs, “I would think whomever is after us would send better men. Local thugs at best.” She looks at Mantle as she enters, “We don’t have much time to torture them, just start with the hands. The others will be happy to tell us everything.”

Very possibly the worst case of acting you’ve ever seen. Stella looks like a little girl at the moment, it’s hard to imagine her cutting off hands.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:12, Fri 24 Apr 2020.

"Do not worry, mistress, no need to get your hands dirty..."  Bohrhorgen leers at the thugs, weighing the shackles in one hand and his axe in the other, as if calculating how many extremities to remove to make the shackles fit

My intimidate is +7, we can try that or if anyone wants to jump in we can contribute an 'aid another' bonus (+2)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Sat 25 Apr 2020.

"Bohrhorgan I'm not sure what's under the bar I didn't notice anyone there when we walked in, but I'm betting we can find out after I clear the webs away."


Dismiss the "web" spell I head to the bar and climb up on the bar top so I can have a better vantage point. Saying, "Who ever is whining under the bar its safe to come out but do it slowly."

"Sis the hands really I was just going to take a few thumbs! But if hands are what you want then hands you shall have." Turns to Bohrhorgan with a devious smile "Your assistance good sir if you would."

Yes I'll jump in on and intimidate (+3)check
This message was last edited by the player at 13:50, Sun 26 Apr 2020.

Under the bar is the bartender, tied up and gagged.

Bohrhorgen and Mantle attempt to threaten the thugs into giving up information on who hired them
11:41, Today: Bohrhorgen rolled 15 using 1d20+9.  Intimidate skill check (with aid another).
This message was last edited by the player at 19:44, Mon 27 Apr 2020.

Mantle looks between the three thugs for a moment then chooses the most scared looking one (perception +8) and casts "Slap" as I hop down from the bar to hide my movements (Stealthily casting +12)

As the spell connects I say, "This is your last chance to cooperate!"

Mantle jumps off the bar, makes a quick but subtle motion with his hand. You hear a smack from thug 5 and a hand print appears on his face. Thug 5 starts to shake, but as he’s opening his mouth to talk, one of the other thugs gives him a look. Thug 5 shuts his mouth with a snap, staring truculently at Mantle. “Tricky wizard, I’d rather spend 10 under the mountain than tell you anything!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:45, Mon 27 Apr 2020.

Kiara unties the bartender, helps him to his feet and ensures he is able to regain his footing.

The bartender looks shaken but brave. He points a finger at the three thugs, “You! You’ll do time for this! He looks around at the bodies, then at the relative lack of damage to the structure, then at each of you. His demeanor shifts slightly from angry to upset. “Well, it could be worse. Looks like you can handle yourselves. My thanks for not tearing the place down. Especially to whomever used the web spell, I’m so tired of morons trying to burn the place down. His eyes widen and he bolts upstairs calling out female names, a chorus of voices answer and he walks back down after a few minutes. While gone, the thugs look nervously at each other and at you. As the bartender returns, three watch guards walk in with batons in hand.  The sergeant looks at the scene of carnage, then at the bartender, “Ostlin , care to explain the 4 dead bodies scattered about your establishment?” Ostlin casually shrugs, “Haven’t had a chance to throw out the garbage today.” Raul snorts, “You expect me to tell my lieutenant that?” Ostlin then explains how the 7 thugs came in 10 minutes before you showed up, crossbows pointed and tied him up. How he heard the thugs hide then try to rob you and the reward offered for Stella at the black market. Raul pulls out a parchment sheaf and takes notes with a charcoal stick. As Ostlin finishes, Raul asks you, “Is this true? Anything else to add?

"Sounds about right."

"That's how it went alrighty they just came in here like a bunch of bullies!"

As I'm sitting at the bar I lean over towards the bar keep saying, "Yeah it's amazing how most people just try to burn everything to ground to get their points across. It's just sad when there's so many ways to just trying to contain the situation with simple spells like web."

Looking at the guards I ask, "So what is the penalty for attempted murder and kidnapping in your fine city anyways?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:27, Wed 29 Apr 2020.

After a length of silence and observation, Nic grabs Thug 5 by the nape of his neck and motions him towards the stairs and pipes up, "Sergeant Raul, it would seem a fellow found himself... erm, pressganged into this unfortunate circumstance. I think I'll have a word with him upstairs about his recently acquired acquaintances who meant to make him a patsy for their diabolical intentions. I think your judgment of this lot of miscreants by way of the innkeeps witness should suffice. Good thing no innocents were hurt."""

Nic nods to the scratch on his arm from the thug's feeble crossbow bolt and winks mischeviously, but with an air of menace  at the young lad. "Come along Francis. We must redefine the nature of your associations." Nic motions to Stella to follow.

Nic looks to the bartender, "Which room was it again sir? I forgot already since all this mess took place."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:59, Wed 29 Apr 2020.

Rowan quietly follows Nic and Stella upstairs

Raul shakes his head, “neither revenge nor interrogation will be allowed at this time. “ He motions to the other two watchmen who pull out manacles and quickly restrain the three thugs. “Should anything discovered prove relevant, I will leave word here with Ostlin.”

Nic replies with a genuine demeanor, My good sergeant, I meant no such thing. Why would I interrogate a friend, especially one who was taken advantage of? I merely meant to help him with guidance and constructivism. I think if he truly meant to harm a friend, I wouldn't be here having this conversation. After all, twas the subtlety imparted to myself by Francis here that he was under duress and provided us the warning."


Nic raises his eyebrow in a matter of fact fashion, doing his best to assure the seargent of his intentions.

Raul, true to his reputation, is not swayed easily. “On master Ostlins word, I am not bringing everyone here in for interrogation. Just be happy with that.” The watch starts marching the thugs out.

Ostlin turns to you all,“My apologies for this altercation occurring in my establishment. I can only thank you for your restraint and future discretion. I’m sure that in the future you’ll find our accommodations more to your liking.” He steps backward, behind the bar and starts setting up mugs, Might be a little early for some, but you lot look the type to drink after your killing.” You hear footsteps on the stairs, several girls come out, and Ostlin directs them to clean the room. The bodies are drug outside and in a few minutes most signs of a battle are removed. Ostlin directs you towards your booth, “You came here for business I presume? Please continue, drinks are on me.” The mugs of ale are exceptional, and perfectly chilled. You get the feeling that yesterday was a deterrent to your presence, but today things have changed. Stella comes in from outside, you realize she was not present while the watch was in the room. And for once she wasn’t kidnapped the minute she left your sight.

Hustle gestures to the bag under the table, “Your items as ordered.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:44, Thu 30 Apr 2020.

Nic notices Stellas sudden discretion, disappearing and returning, and simply shrugs. "I tried." He then proceeds to gather his previously thrown daggers.

Feeling slightly deflated, he then makes his way to the booth and takes a seat while grabbing a freshly poured mug and quietly sips it in contemplation.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Fri 01 May 2020.

The mug is cool, the ale fresh. Ostlin gives Nic a commiserating look. “Don’t feel down, I swear Raul should have been a Paladin.The Lispy one was here last night when you all came in. He was a little suspicious acting when you left, sent a lad out right after. The women, finally haven cleaned up, come to the table Nic is at and attempt to console him. Nic, you realize they are some good looking girls!
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:56, Fri 01 May 2020.

Nic stares through his mug, appearing oblivious to any advances spent his way. An opportunity lost... or maybe just delayed. Bah! Though bold, however inexperienced, it would have been opportunistic to have another set of eyes in and about the streets. Still, there is a much larger task ahead, and more volatile at that. Gotta be more careful going forward.

"Now that we have our package and are reunited with our scaly friend we should be going soon I think.  Probably safer to keep moving."

Hustle rubs his hands together “Perhaps you all would like to inspect the merchandise before leaving?” He pulls the bag up on to the table, opening and pulling out way more items than it should hold.

As you inspect the items, you are impressed by the quality and accounting of the inventory. It looks like Hustle nailed it in one!
OOC, think of material handlers and how many mistakes they can make.

The coach appears to be waiting, wherever you go, it looks to be a ways.

Hustle looks expectantly at you all, “You realize that you gave me the amount of the goods, nothing for my efforts?”  He looks nervously around at the fresh bloodstains on the floor being mopped up.

"Hmmm..... something for your efforts you say....."

I Start going through the bag looking for all the things I ordered. My obvious skepticism running across my face.

"You sure you got everything we ordered with a side of thugs." As I give a dashing debonair smile

Nic reaches into a pocket in his vest and pulls out what appears to be a master list, then starts to push the items laid out into specific piles, obviously to the preferences of the party inherent to their skills, and ponders while reviewing the items in front and comparing to the list.  Nic eyes Hustle and takes note of his demeanor inconspicuously, and then continues to review the contents procured.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:20, Thu 14 May 2020.

Hustle looks at Nic, “Reputation is everything on the street. When have you heard of me not coming through?”

Nic purses his lips and, finally looking up at Hustle from his contemplative brow, winks in approval. Solid work my friend. "Your side of the street is pristine by my assessment." Nic covertly passes him a small leather bag and finishes his drink in whole with the other hand.


Standing up, and motioning the party to the procured items before them. "Let's make this count, shall we?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:39, Wed 27 May 2020.

"Indeed lets get some payback!!"
As I gather up my things thinking of all the mayhem a may be able to cause with these new toys I've just acquired!

Turning to the rest of the party glass in hand. Raise my glass and say, "You Ladies and Gentlemen ready to get some!!"

"Aye. Lady Stella will not be safe until this is done.  None of us will.  Let's get underway and be done with this."

'Let's be about reaping the dead'

Hustle looks at you, his lips curl into a sneer. “I’ll keep your generosity in mind. A thousand gold worth of equipment and magic and you throw this pittance to me.”  He looks around at all of you, “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure the street is aware of your generosity.”   Hustle stands and starts toward the door.

Nic abruptly turns to Hustle, gauging his outburst, and with a dangerous smile leans down to the dwarf and whispers, well enough for the rest of the party to hear, and in a deadly serious tone "You'll find 10 percent of what equated to the cost for the items and their worth in the bag I just gave you. If you're complaining about my own generosity in addition to such, should I remind you that your recent endeavor seemed to have attracted unwanted attention to all of us and this fine establishment? Don't let your temper ruin a good business relationship. You're not the only one with a voice on the street. Are we understood?"



Nic straightens up, after what seems like an eternity in a stare down with Hustle, and then redirects his gaze over the rest of the group, while maintaining his tone, "I asked a favor of this man for the welfare of this company, and you all were on board to see your fortunes spent wisely. In a night, a single night, this dwarf accomplished the procurement of your future survival as we head out into a mess of corpses seeking to bring us to their fold. He was entrusted with over 4000 gold, ... our gold, which he could have easily disappeared into the night with and leaving you to blame only me!! It would have been that easy, and we'd all be very unprepared right at this very moment, with our word to carry out an assignment and no such assurances. All of you, with the items you so hastily placed away in your packs, robes, and bags need to consider that this dwarf may have just saved your lives in the near future. Is ten percent of that take worth your life or future glory that this dwarf just enabled you to possibly maintain or achieve? My side of the street... I believe is clean."

Nic looks back to Hustle and points to the unopened bag in his hand, "I can only speak for myself and my appreciation and admiration for what you did for us under such circumstances, for the possibility that we may not meet again is a very clear and present danger going forward. I do thank you, and hope that my gratitude for your services is at least appreciated, and not forgotten for my sake." Nic shifts his haversack to a more comfortable and ready position over his back, and widens his eyes at the rest of the group insistently.

Hustle tosses the bag in his hand, his eyes widen. “Smells like platinum.”He looks at Nic, his demeanor more normal, “you and I are square, you paying for the rest?” Seeing the answer in Nics eyes, he turns to the rest of you, “I bring a skill set that not many have, I know who and where to find things. In your business, having what you need can be critical. I also bring discretion, another critical factor. To have a long and successful career, you’ll need a person like me. I’m not cheap, but I Hustle!”
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:38, Thu 28 May 2020.

Kiara, understanding the value of allies in her current situations quickly weighs her options and decides that 10% is a small price to pay, although she would rather not have any reputation at all here at this moment. She tosses Hustle a bag containing coin equal to 10% of the cost of her goods.

Unable to shake the cold uneasy feeling in her soul she feels it is time to get moving. Walking up to Nic, Kiara puts a friendly arm on his shoulder and looks to Bohrhorgan with a nod. I feel this is far from done and over with, but yes, let's get a move on.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:21, Thu 28 May 2020.

Glaring from Hustle to Nic and back again, Bohrhorgen reaches into his pockets for a handful of coins, and gripping his fists tight while waving it over Hustle's hand "If it's ten percent service fee, instead of getting pissy say it's a ten percent fee.  Do not assume we will guess that and then talk down to us when we do not.  Either one of you." Dropping coins into Hustle's hand and looking him in the eye "if you want to smell the color of my gold again you had best remember that and not act like I'm trying to rob you." waving a finger at Nic "And you should know better than to talk to me like I was a beardling that just ate your favorite rat!"

"Hmm, that seems to get a bit lost in translation, but you understand my meaning!  There was no need for any of that when you lot could have just spoken plainly.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:01, Mon 01 June 2020.

With a low growl reaches into his pouch and grabs what coins he has left. "Here if this is what you want,here you go" grumbling something about griffins I make ready to go.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:53, Sun 31 May 2020.

I wait my turn as the others make their way out to the wagon leaving only me Nic, Hustle and the barkeep in the bar.

     Smirking looking at Nic, Hustle, and back to Hustle.... I reach into my robes start shuffling  through and around in different spots on my person small clink here and there till I pull a pouch out that's not necessarily bubbling with coins. Looking at Hustle saying "Its definitely not enough to satisfy your needs or greeds but it'll have to do for now. As your "hustling" as you so pointedly claimed and the reputation of this fine establishment has proved less than optimal."

Walking towards Hustle and past him to the door I place the bag definitely light for my part. Stopping just before the doorway not turning around (in icy cold tones straight faced) "They say reputation is everything in a city of hustlers. Just remember we never met or heard of each other before this day came along, but now that we have no that I too know people. I too know people, I to have my connections in the city."

Take the last step towards the door turn around flip one single gold coin across the room to the barkeep (in the same icy cold tones straight faced) "Your welcome for not burning your bar to the ground."

Turn and walk to the wagon and jump in leaving the three behind me in the bar without a second glance.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:25, Mon 01 June 2020.

Nic waits for the rest to leave, and turns back to Hustle, "Not exactly how I like to perform my business with an associate. I can't vouch that the payment was enough all around. Perhaps a few of them will have to learn just how hard it is to find good help these days, and how much they'll be paying for it when their purses are overfull the next time."

Nic nods to the bartender, ensuring he's been addressed properly, stating "I thank you again sir for the hospitality and discretion. I hope to use the same services again in the future. Perhaps a floor or two higher next time." Nic places a gold and silver on the bar, "For any emotional inconvenience that was caused."

As Nic prepares to leave, he puts a hand on Hustle's shoulder and walks toward the door with him, "I still maintain my confidence in your services my friend. I trust that at least I may have work that can be appropriated with your help in the future. Until we return, take care, hustle hard, and prosper well. The streets are clean."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:22, Sun 31 May 2020.

Hustle looks you right in the eye, winks and grins.
“You know I didn’t get my name because I work hard, right?”

Nic smiles and nods in approval, then salutes with two fingers from his brow and quietly exits the Blue Nymph. Upon boarding the wagon, he situates himself appropriately, comfortably, and armed.

Nic looks to the group and smiles mischeviously, "I hope you're all ready for this. The items you all asked for, and hopefully accounted for, I hope that they prove worthy in our cause... that being survival from where I see this heading. It was not my intention to upset any of you by what was said earlier either, but we do need to consider that our resources and allies are limited at this point, and by now you should all know that our activities are monitored to say the least. I only intended to exercise strength in the face of a potential threat. We don't need to be seen as a company with no order to it, odd as we all may seem to each other at times. Bohrhorgen, you've been a trusted friend and ally in all of this, and I can't thank you or your uncle enough for what you've made possible. Let's do him proud and return the favor one day. I won't forget his generosity, and feel that I am unable to repay him monetarily, save for returning with his nephew alive to share another tankard of ale and a grand story. To the rest of you, sometimes you need to listen and read between the lines of things I say and do. Know that I have your backs in all of this.  I only hope that my deeds prove this to you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:11, Mon 01 June 2020.

"Well, your world has not been mine for long, and in mine all speak plainly, so don't forget it.  But I trust you brother.  Let's be about or business."

With a devilish grin "Were great brother lets go blow up some ghouls!!"

The party boards the coach, Stella leans out and flips a black rock of some sort to Hustle before the coachman cracks his whip and everyone is thrown back into their seats as he sets a breakneck pacethrough town to the western gate. Guards at the gate step aside as the coach approaches and soon you’re in the countryside. Stella bangs on the ceiling and shouts to the driver to slow down. She then speaks loud enough for everyone to hear above the squeaky coach, but low enough to exclude the attendants. “I plan to cast a powerful divination, one that will lead us to the lair of the Darakhul who have been such a thorn in our plans.” She glances out the coach window, checking the progress through the countryside. “The destination is Blue Morell cavern. The Darakhul conduct business from there, slavery, raids, and feasting. It’s not going to be pretty, no holding back on this one. Let’s set some tactics, I have healing and counters for paralysis.” She looks to you all for feedback.

"I am fully prepared to axe the undead bastards a few pointed questions.  See what I did there?  I crack myself up.  Seriously though, my father's axe should be extra effective against the undead."

Stella nods, “not to mention your impressive armor and your Dwarven resilience. If possible, taunt them into focusing on you.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:33, Tue 02 June 2020.

With a gleam in my eye, I say;
"So Sis what your saying is I don't have to hold back anymore I can just burn them all down!!"

"Also what do you think is the ultimate goal for us it cant be as simple as kill as many of them as we can, can it?"

"Don't get me wrong I'm fine with killing as many as we can if that's the plan but there must be a reason they want you so bad."

"As for what I'll try to do as the battle come and go. I have a few tricks up my sleeve for large groups of them so the more we can pack together or bottle neck in big groups the more I can eliminate with little effort. I'm also feeling a bit like we could sneak in right under their noses if we wanted to. As for you warrior types I can give you a bit of speed when necessary."

This message was last edited by the player at 05:17, Thu 04 June 2020.

With 6 of you in the coach, it’s pretty cramped. Stella replies to Mantle, “I don’t know for sure why the undead are trying to foil my efforts, but I can make an educated guess that they intend to go to the stars, or that they are being set upon me by forces out in the stars to stop my plans. Perhaps you all would like a little more information on what I’m doing here?” She looks around and continues, “but first, we need to set our tactics. Plan to survive, before we thrive. What can the rest of you accomplish?” She looks pointedly at Nic, Kiara, and Rowan.

quote:

I can share some magical strength and healing for us and harm for them!!!!And a little backup smashing

Nic looks around the carriage and then pulls out a few vials and elixirs and shrugs, "I can provide some limited support by way of some curative efforts, something to aid the constitiution and shrug off a few ill effects, a rather curious item that would enable a weapon or several forms of ammunition the ability to affect the undead for a limited time, and then there's my motivational prowess. I hope that will prove to be sufficient, but this IS the undead we are speaking of. I failed to think of obtaining a more effective ranged form of weaponry as I was focused more along the lines of protective commodities, and we were in a hurry after all. If we scout our adversary well enough in advance, and maybe present a sort of kill-box, then I may be able to lend a few items to those who could further utilize their abilities. I think, however, that Stella, Mantle, and I should stick together and out of the fray, laying down field aggro if at all possible. I understand that members of the cloth have a way with the undead, and Mantle should be able to adequately take advantage of their apparent susceptibility to flammability."

Nic then looks to Kiara, Bohrhorgen, and Rowan, and addresses them with a motioning hand, "Suffice to say, the three of you are obviously capable of getting your hands wetter than others. We should try to ensure that you have the ability to strike first, fast, and often. Kiara, I'm sorry my dear, but you may also be part of the scenario involving the kill-box that I mentioned, where as they seem to have an affinity to ... (ahem) recognize your presence. Perhaps we could use that to our advantage."

What in the abyss happened to Flak?
This message was last edited by the player at 02:44, Fri 05 June 2020.

Seeming a bit flustered and unorganized Kiara addresses the group I got one of you, if you get paralyzed. If two of you can't move, one of you is doomed. I can clear a bit of stench, and I tend to flank well. That is about it. I can pick some locks, and look for traps. I will help get you all in, you had best be helping me get the hell out!

With that she goes back to surveying her items and tries to mentally prepare for what lies ahead.

Stella nods as Kiara finishes. "As a group, it's important to watch each other's backs. Lone wolf or selfish actions tend to get people killed quickly. Work to your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. Mantle, soften up groups so the front line can one hit them. Borhorgen is our center, Kiara is the away team, don't let yourself get surrounded, but look for leaders alone. Rowan is the opportunist and the second line of defense, try to protect us casters please. Nic, take out the weak that the fighters didn't finish, keeps one more attack from hitting the front line. I will be working triage, keeping our front line rolling. I can remove paralysis a couple of times, Kiara hold that potion back for me if possible. things could get sticky if I go down. All of us, try to concentrate on one before moving on, don't spread your attacks out unless you have backup to finish the first off. This may all sound elementary, but you'd be surprised how many dead groups didn't practice these simple tactics. As always, if you see any improvements or glaring loopholes, speak up. The best plans last right up until the first contact." Having given her tactical speech, Stella fidgets for a moment and you realize she's uncomfortable with what she's about to say.

"What I'm about to tell you needs to be kept in the strictest confidence, lives depend on it. There is a reason I'm here and not out making a vast fortune running the stars." She stops and collects her thoughts. "Let me start closer to the beginning, Space is vast, and many different peoples live between the stars. The largest and most powerful fleet is the Elven nation. The company I am part of works for them on occasion, which makes our trading opportunities more lucrative. Recently, we've been receiving more contracts that have made us question the status quo. The Elves are disciplined, understand that, and their ships are the terror of the skies. Recently we've sensed an undertone of unease, bordering on fear from the contacts we have. The nature of the requests have changed, from exploration or pest removal, to the acquisition of advanced weapons, especially types based on smokepowder. You may not know this, but Mantle and I are originally from a planet with the capability of producing high-grade smokepowder in large quantities. Our family is intricately involved in this most lucrative trade and this is one reason why our company was originally chosen for these delicate appropriations. Because of our intimate and highly classified knowledge of what the Elven fleet are requisitioning, we have reached the conclusion that war is coming to space. Stella looks around to see how you are all taking this revelation, "When I say war, I mean on a very large scale, world-spanning, and civilization threatening type war. Perhaps it will never be something that reaches this world you live on, but I wouldn't count on it. My primary objective here has been to commission magical, clockwork cannon, which is for our personal use, not for the Elves." She nods to Bohrhorgen, "Your Uncle Dugan is truly a unique craftsman, his forges are renowned far and wide." Once again, she looks out of the carriage, obviously seeing some sort of landmark, she knocks on the side of the coach. It starts to slow down and you all gather any gear in preparation of disembarking. After everyone is out and the coach is heading back to town, you see a small trail leading away from the main road towards the north.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:27, Mon 08 June 2020.

Kiara takes a moment and studies her new surroundings, looking at the landscape as well as the trail and not forgetting the skies!

In reply to Kiara (msg # 87):

Everything seems clear at the moment. Your attention to your surroundings is duly noted.

Nic gathers his belongings quietly while contemplating the arrival of Stella's true story, or at least the start of it. With one hand, Nic removes his cloak and turns it inside out before putting it back on in reverse. Now draped in a black cloak, it seems to match the demeanor of the situation ahead. Pausing for a moment, after hearing Stella's story he turns to her with a quizzical look, "Stella, your candor is greatly appreciated. I am now starting to understand some of your plight and need for discretion. Upon hearing this, I am concerned about a few things. This potential for war that you're speaking of... what is to stop those with power from just seeking your home world and simply taking what they need? Furthermore, and I may be overstepping my bounds by asking, but was it a contract that brought you here, or was it a specific craftsman that brought you so far from home? I know I'm full of questions, and I'll only ask one more before I forget, among the multitude I have running through my mind at the moment, and more pressingly to the point... this task we are about to undergo is perilous and I aim to wonder why you would find yourself in our company to see this done, as you could easily be elsewhere from what we've all seen of your prowess?"

Nic shifts his weight to another foot, waiting in earnest to see how Stella processes the questions posed to her. He fidgets in his haversack for a moment, and pulls out yet another cloak with a spider clasp by the collar and runs a finger over each of the legs.

In reply to Nic (msg # 89):

Stella smiles sadly, “In order of presentation, should the sale of smokepowder  be interrupted, there is no guarantee that force will not be used to ensure its steady supply. Woe to those who believe they can imperil the Elven Navy. I hope to mitigate the process so all may come out of this with their traditions intact. Secondly, Zobeck is well known for it’s Clockwork. Dugan is a friend to those who travel the skies and with a sterling reputation for quality and honesty. Plus we know of each other through a mutual acquaintance. So an individual craftsman would be my reply. Third, my captain has set me a task of recruiting those who are capable, we seek to increase not only our crew, but our fleet. Also, the starship is not here, it will return in around a week from now.” She looks at the rest of you, “Anybody else have questions or comments? I’d prefer to handle this as thoroughly as possible now, instead of piecemeal as we go.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:33, Wed 10 June 2020.

As Stella is talking filling people in on why she's here at this time my face is kinda twisting into a bit of a scowl. I continue to listen to her as she speaks explaining at least part of her end goal. I gather my stuff and get out of the wagon as I listen to Nic ask his questions also arranging some of the items to and from my pack to my person.


"So that's the reason you came back here finally and found me after marooning me on this rock away from our home." "Why didn't you just take me with you? I know I was young but I could've helped I know I could of........"

The anger and frustration build in my voice and the scowl on my face getting bigger by the second. I finally just turn around and point down the trail "This is the way were going right?" I just head off down the trail grumbling to myself. Yes I know I'm not normally the lead but I don't care I'm Pouting mad.

"Mantle please. Wait for us. The plan still remains, and we're all in this together now. I'd like to hear more from the both of you if you will treat us. Death awaits us all. Be not so eager to meet it without a story in your heart first. Please come back." Nic calls to the obviously pained halfling.

Stella looks miserable, “I’ve really handled this badly with him. Manage a world spanning crisis, ignore familial responsibilities, that’s me. Kiara, can you please scout ahead so I can walk alone for a moment with my brother and try to explain events to him? And the rest of you please keep me in sight without intruding? I realize more now how I am embroiled in events that may influence the fate of worlds, I never asked for it, I tried to shelter him from it, but sometimes fate leaves us little choice.” Stella hurries forward towards your rightfully upset  sorcerer, “Mantle, please wait for me.” She catches up to him, you see her speaking earnestly to him, too low to overhear.

 While speaking with Mantle, Stella seems to deflate, as if the worlds and stars above are crushing her admittedly small shoulders.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:24, Sun 14 June 2020.

As I wonder off kicking stones pouting I hear Nic calling out and I give e a definitely defying shrug but my pace definitely slows cause I do appreciate the concern in his voice and value the friendship we've created.

As I hear Stella call out stop and turn towards herbreifly still scowling then turn away but waiting for her.



As the two of us are walking to together I audibly laugh out loud and bump into Stella looking at her with this big shit eating grin!! Then pull her in for a hug!!

Look back at Nic and say the following "Thanks brother it's all good now. But do I have the works of a special task at hand for us! AND someone is going to burn for it!!"

As I look around to the rest of the party "Sorry for my little out burst there. Now let's go kick this little monkey off our backs and get the fuck off this rock!!"

Kiara leads, the trail winds through rough country, the rocks here are numerous and difficult to traverse. The trees are spread out and consist mainly of pine and juniper, with some sagebrush filling in the undergrowth. An inquisitive raven circles you a couple times, then disappears into the trees ahead. The trail is faint, and it’s all Kiara can do to keep on it. Several times Rowan corrects the party direction, his understanding of the surroundings becoming apparent the wilder the area gets. You travel for 4 hours until you reach a point where the trail leads into a sinkhole. See the first video on messenger. (The messenger that has Lily in it.) Don’t post on that thread, use the normal one that doesn’t have Lily!

I’ll need a March order, spacing, and special preparations, if any.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 05:58, Mon 15 June 2020.

Nic places an arm on Mantle, halting his progress momentarily by handing him the spider clasp to the cloak he was carrying, and shows him how to operate it. "This may be opportunistic for you and enabling you to get a clear spread with your spells to maximum effect. Use it wisely, and I would like it back when this is over with if you don't mind."

Nic looks to the terrain ahead, and waits for Kiara, Rowan, Bohrhorgen, and Stella to get ahead of him, opting to stay 5th or 6th in line.

S/O/P/: Upon each member who passes, Nic will cast Resistance upon each in order of march order, and continue to do so unless something else dictates a change in this procedure.Readied are a handful of daggers and a vial in the other hand.

Takes up a place behind Borhorgen
 Greataxe at the ready
This message was last edited by the player at 07:37, Wed 17 June 2020.

 ”So, the situation seems to be: in the sea of stars, something the powers made to be possibly infinite, there is an empire spanning many worlds.  With many vessels that could travel the sea of stars.  Worlds possibly without number.  Each one different.  More worlds than you could see or explore even during the lifetime of one of the elder races.  Many lifetimes worth of exploration and discovery.  New worlds new peoples, more than you could see or experience.  More than you can possibly even imagine.  All of that and this empire wants war?  War?  Death.  Destruction.  Wasted time, resources, lives.  All the endless possibilities an endless number of worlds can provide, and the best they can do is go to war.  Ridiculous.”

“Yeah, I’m a warrior.  But that doesn’t mean I want war.  A wandering monk was a volunteered worker when I was a beardling.  I was real curious about him, he was very different from the other volunteered workers.  He did not seem to mind it.   He seemed to enjoy it.  I spoke to him and asked him questions every chance I could.  He told me once when he was young his fighting instructor told him and his classmates to always seeking peace, not battle.  So he asked his teacher ‘How can you say peace is a better way?  If we are not to seek out war, why do you teach us to be warriors?  We should use our skills to make war and win fights.’  He said his teacher told him they had a rare opportunity to live the best of peaceful lives.  He asked his teacher ‘If we are to be peaceful why teach us to fight?  Why not teach us to garden?’  his teacher told him ‘it is always better to be a warrior in a garden, than a gardener in a war.’”

I take the spider clasp cloak and thank Nic for it. "Many thanks don't you worry I'll take good care of it and return it to promptly once our deed is done."

I'll take up place behind Rowan I guess even though I can't see anything.

As you continue down the trail, a crow flying circles around you catches your attention.

21:00, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Rowan, rolled 16 using 1d20+11.  Survival.

Rowan is certain it’s the same one seen before. It spirals down into a depression, disappearing from sight.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:02, Sun 21 June 2020.

Let me know your actions.

If it's in range and Rowan points it out I shoot it with magic missile. Fuck spies in the sky.

If I can't I start look around for places or things that may look suspicious to me or as ambush locations.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:16, Sat 27 June 2020.

Mantle casts a spell, hits the Raven dead center with 2 missiles. The bird squawks, but doesn’t appear to be hurt badly, veers further out and spirals down into the depression.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:06, Sun 28 June 2020.

"You think we should go find it?"

"Well I know one thing that definitely wasn't your normal raven that should have more than killed it!"
"So maybe its leading the way to the tunnel we need to find anyways, but we should be on the look out for a spellcaster of some sort cause that very well may have been his familiar he sent out to keep watch."

I would definitely say that it was a companion of some kind, a very strong one at that

Nic, after considering Bohrhorgen's intuitive reflection, finally pipes up, "A snitch in the sky. I'm sure we're all about to see who is a gardener and who is not. I've a feeling that, if that bird were indeed a familiar, we're about to meet an angry master. Stand fast. Shadows will soon be upon us."

The trail leads right to the depression the Raven flew into. You look over the edge and see a trail below that leads to a cave entrance. The tRail you are on leads around to the other side of the depression, looks like it may be a way in over there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:13, Fri 10 July 2020.

"Death from above I always say. It seems to be that our recent engagements have resulted from eyes above us. Though I'm going to assume the worst in that our quarry is aware of our presence, perhaps Kiara and Borhorgen could investigate while we take positions from above in case something flushes out?" Nic proposes. Nic glances around for advantageous vantage points.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:30, Sun 12 July 2020.

"I'm game.  Directly over the edge or follow the trail around?"

The sides of the sinkhole are segmented, (like legos stacks vertically), a skilled climber could descend free style. To the left about 50 yards it looks like there’s a gradual approach.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:47, Thu 16 July 2020.

the trail. probably a trap. but better to fight from the trail than the cliffs

"Cover me from here, I'll descend that slope."

Looks at great axe in hand then at Borhorgen and says "ok?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:54, Sun 19 July 2020.

"Actually I wouldn't mind your sixth sense at my back. You swing high, I'll swing low?"

Bohrhorgen advances towards the gradual approach at a cautious pace, shield at the ready, his family crest of a tapped keg with XXX marked on it proudly displayed, even though it looks like a young child painted it on (he's no artist, but he tries).

Following behind Borhorgen keeping a watchful eye. High and low

As Rowan and Borhorgen pass by, Nic mutters an incantation, touching each on the shoulder as they pass by. (Resistance)

The upper trail leads around to the western side of the depression, it gradually descends  but ahead you can see a line of rocks built up into a small ridge blocking the trail wall to wall. The people following Bohrhorgen and Rwan can see the trail continue on the far side. So far, everything looks clear.

OOC: this takes care of the two vids I sent today.

Nic raises a hand, and motions 2 fingers towards the rock wall above the trail. Turning to Kiara, he tilts his head towards the structure, and makes use of some hand gestures insinuating she stealthily go and check it out.

Kiara follows Nicks suggestion and stealthily makes her way to the rock wall and inspects the area. Looking for traps along the way, she is interested on seeing what is atop the ridge and on the other side. Kiara takes special care to blend in to the surroundings as much as possible.

22:56, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Kiara, rolled 22 using 1d20+7.  Perception.
22:55, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Kiara, rolled 22 using 1d20+9.  Stealth.

Kiara blends easily into the surrounding foliage, she treads lightly down the path and cautiously peers over the rocks, she freezes, then backs away slowly.

Nick raises his hands questioningly, and takes cover, dagger at the ready.

Kiarra looks over toward Nic and mouths "HUGE Snake" as she slowly pulls her longsword from its scabbard. Paying close attention to not allow a glint from the steel, she keeps it from any sunlight or direct rays.

Mouthing silently "So you found dinner!" with a little smirk😏

Continue cautiously advancing, axe and shield ready.

Bohrhorgen advances until he’s next to Kiara, a small ridge of rocks about the size of a head lays across the trail, blocking your view of the cave mouth.

Follows Borhorgen

You are all standing behind a ridge of rocks, perhaps 60 yards away from the cave entrance, but it is not in sight.

Kiara motions questioningly to the party to go up and over the ridge and move on the cave.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:08, Sun 30 Aug 2020.

In reply to Kiara (msg # 130):

OOC All I can think after Kiara's line is

"Oh Asps very dangerous you go first!"

Haha

Nic shakes his head and looks to Kiara and lowly intones, "Aren't you the snake charmer of this group? I thought you had a way with animals. Does this mean I need to take charge if you're not willing? I mean, it's a snake. No arms or legs. Just one really pointy end. Lets not let this thank take up refuge, shall we? Crack on and ghost this thing!"

Nick puts a dagger between his teeth, and one in each hand and makes his way to the ledge, trying to discern how best to launch an attack from above.

tanks down the stairs sneakers over the side and behind mini magic covers from top?

Stella looks at Rowan, “You like to play dumb, don’t you. That is a tactical plan, and I agree, except putting Mantle out of my healing range.” She looks uncomfortable as she continues, “Umm, I’m also a little uncomfortable front lining against something that can swallow me. Might be best for others to lead on this.”Having had her say, she seems content to let you figure out your details on your own.

Kiara notices the parties hesitation in moving forward, All but Rowan that is. Motioning for cover on both sides of her, she quietly draws her sword and continues forward to the edge of the cave entrance. As the party is approaching the cave entrance Kiara ensures there are no traps, or at least she knows where they are to start with. "Now is the time to be as quick as we can and get the torches lit, I am not about to be snuck up on by this giant asshole."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:44, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

While everyone is still within reach, Nic continues to cast resistance until it is time for him to move into position, in which case casts it on himself. He then will proceed over the ledge with Kiara leading, and giving her one last bump of the resistance cantrip.

Climbing stealthily of course.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:36, Sun 06 Sept 2020.

Advance

Nic whispers chanting melodically about tales of "high adventure" in an effort to inspire the group, and following up at the rear of the party.

Kiara advances toward the opening of the cave, of course looking for traps along the way. Keeping a lit torch far in front of her at all times, in her off hand. Sword in her hand and ready to throw the torch and swing if need be.

As you approach the cavern, you hear a dry rubbing sound, the kind of sound a very large snake 🐍 might make moving. Kiara crouches and stealths forward.

01:12, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Snake, rolled 26 using 1d20+14.  Perception vs. stealth Kiara.
00:48, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Kiara, rolled 21 using 1d20+9.  Stealth.

The rubbing sound pauses for an instant, then begins again, only louder and gaining in volume.

01:22, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Snake, rolled 15 using 1d20+4.  Initiative .
01:21, Today: rchmage, for the NPC Stella, rolled 4 using 1d20.
01:20, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Rowan, rolled 20 using 1d20+7.
01:17, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Nic, rolled 4 using 1d20+2.
01:16, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Mantle, rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Initiative .
01:16, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Kiara, rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Initiative .
01:15, Today: rchmage, on behalf of Bohrhorgen, rolled 18 using 1d20.  Initiative.

So, the party has initiative. I’m using an average, then the side with higher average initiative goes first, in no particular order.

Your turn, let me know your actions, it sounds like the snake is moving quickly towards you. There are large rocks blocking line of sight. Best guess is less than 30 feet from the top of the boulders.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:36, Sun 13 Sept 2020.

I reach into a rust colored bag and pull forth a fuzzy ball and throw it out in front of us

Charge!!!

I prep Magic Missile and hold my action to see if I need to finish it off.

"Go get him Bohrhorgen!! I'm right behind you!!"

Bohrhorgen charges to the edge of the rocks, bellowing a war cry. Axe and shield held at the ready.
 You hear a very amused voice, “Hahaha! Look at your face! Thought you’d have snake for dinner, didn’t you? Not today my friend, not today.”
 As the rest of you walk to where Bohrhorgen is standing, you see a tall older fellow trying unsuccessfully to quell his mirth. “Serves you right for shooting me as I flew in here! Good shot shorty!” He indicates Mantle, “That really stung, almost knocked me out of the sky.” He finally winds down from his somewhat lame “prank” and continues in a more serious tone, or at least less mirthful, chuckling from time to time. “I saw you all heading here loaded for bear and I thought I’d check on an old friend.” He steps past Bohrhorgen and clasps arms with Rowan. About time you crawled out of your solitude and joined in the struggle. I see you finally picked a group to fight alongside. Ha! Your faces! That was funny! So tell me, what are you doing here?

"Most honored Hunter, we seek to restore some order to the natural world by laying to rest some of the un-living. My friends this is an old companion and mentor of mine. He goes by the name of Hunter and has taught me much of what I know"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 05:16, Wed 16 Sept 2020.

Nic shakes his head, flips his dagger over the top of his hand (gunslinger style) and sheathes it, and crosses his arms, studiously observing the now apparent reunion of master and pupil.

Kiara, visibly put off by the strangers trick, re-sheaths her sword. Looking at the hunter with an irritated look she informs him, A stunt like that is likely to get you hurt, if not killed one of these days. looking back to the rest of the party, We aren't getting any younger and the day isn't getting longer. With a questioning look toward Hunter and an outstretched arm toward the cave, What exactly are you doing out here alone? In there none the less. Perhaps a guide in the darkness?

"Pleased to meet you, meister Hunter. Sorry about the whole trying to kill you thing."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:52, Thu 17 Sept 2020.

In reply to Rowan (msg # 145):
“I had a feeling that’s where you were heading. Well, good then. Never had much use for them Ghouls, or their Vampire masters either. If it were up to me, I’d collapse the ceiling on the whole lot.” He fumbles in his robes for a moment, then pulls out a large leather quiver. Reaching into it he pulls out a spear, then tosses it to Rowan. “Count it as a loan, I may need it back someday. It helps against the misty types of undead.”
He looks around, noting your faces, posture, and items, “Good luck down there, send those bastards to hell.”
With that, he turns into a hawk and flies off, circling once and screeing loudly.

Nic raises his eyes in astonishment. "Vampire masters he said. That means plural... for some of you that means more than one. Aaaaand, this hunter friend of Rowan's just ... leaves? Oh, this is getting better and better."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:12, Sat 19 Sept 2020.

Shakes head." He was always a little flighty. Shall we continue on? "

Flighty. I see what you did there.

Grins a toothy grin

Nic claps his hands twice, and motions to the rest of the party and calls out to them "All right everyone. Positions please. Everyone, where you were before. Positions please. Aaaaand, back to the second act, from the top shall we?"

Nic smiles, amused by the looks he garners from the rest of the party. Whatever. Life is a stage. Some are better actors than conductors.

Mocking Nics hand clap with an irritated look on her face Kiara eyes the spear and shudders, not wanting her scent down in the cave. She is doing her best to hide her unease, and failing miserably.

Puts away my greataxe and graps the spear two handed. "Shall we?"

Beaming a big smile at Rowan "I shot your master hope there's no hard feelings, but if you run off and come back as a raven I'll probably shoot you too!" Smiling "Just saying...."

As I look around at everyone talking about places in the march I move up towards the front so I'm behind Kiara just not right next to her, she can take/have the lead.

As I pass Bohrhorgen pat him on the shoulder "Damn I was looking forward to some fresh snake for dinner!"

Nic pauses to put a hand on Mantle's shoulder, "Perhaps you could provide some non-lethal illumination for those of us less inclined to see in the dark? Maybe on someone's shield perhaps? I don't think that we'll be sneaking up on anything by means of using the darkness in this situation."

In reply to Nic (msg # 158):

 "I appreciate your desire i do not understand it cause non lethal light isn't really my thing but I'm betting Rowan can do it!"

"Plus I'm betting Bohrhorgen wouldn't like the way I light up his shield very much!!"

Nic looks to Rowan, questioningly.

"May I cast a light spell on your shield Borhorgen?"

"Just make sure it doesn't weigh him down. I have shit that needs carried when we get out of here." Nic proclaims, glancing anxiously at Bohrhorgen, then relaxes his demeanor. "Sorry, I couldn't resist. You know, trying to ... ahem, "lighten" the mood as it were."

Nic looks to Kiara, "Hey, you need to ease up a little. You're putting off vibes I'm sure even a predator can sense. Seriously, I'm no happier to be facing these things than you are. Remember, I was with you when we had our first brush with what we are now seeking out intentionally. Fear profits man nothing."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:37, Fri 25 Sept 2020.

Light is fine.  Let us try to get a move on though.

Casts light on Borhorgens shield

The cave entrance narrows down quickly. A small beam of light illuminates a small vertical opening in the very back. Kiara carefully approaches, recognizing the potential for an ambush at such a small choke point. Cautiously advancing, checking the area for alarms and possible traps, she leads you up and through the hole into a separate sinkhole, completely enclosed.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:16, Sat 26 Sept 2020.

Nic watches as the party makes their way into the cave, following when his turn in the order comes. There definitely won't be any haymaker swings in this tight fit. I see how that spear might be useful too. Like trying to root out a bear, just keep the pointy end forward and we should be fine. Perhaps this experience will be good for us in the event we try to board ships in the future. Not that I'd be climbing through a porthole or anything, but... some could. Keep a positive outlook Nic. We need to make it through this, and onward to getting off this rock if at all expediently possible. 

Upon making the climb up, noticing the enclosed area the party is standing in, Nic starts to peruse the walls, searching for something and muttering to nobody in particular, "This makes no sense."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:26, Sun 27 Sept 2020.

After close inspection, Nic stops and eyes a spot in particular, revealing a small opening. "Well, the rabbit hole does lead somewhere. Shall we continue?" Nic proclaims, giving Stella a sly wink.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:38, Sun 27 Sept 2020.

The bars are stout, but might be moved by someone strong.

Kiara looks over the bars to see if there are any hidden locks, or hinges, or any secret levers, traps or other unseen things. Thinking about what Nic said, she tries to slow her breathing and calm herself. She knows he is right, and she knows she isn't alone in this.

Seeing the bars, Bohrhorgen is relieved
"Finally something sane.  This I can comprehend." He mutters, loosing his prybar and any-tool.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:12, Sun 27 Sept 2020.

With I cocked eyebrow...…
 "So playing devils advocate here so does this set of bars look like they're put here to keeeeep bad things in or bad things out??"

 "Bohrhorgen can you see what's on the other side of those bars?"

As if to punctuate Mantles question,  a crossbow bolt whizzes out of the darkness behind the bars, thunking in to Bohrhorgens shield.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:23, Mon 28 Sept 2020.

I doubt everyone is able to see out the gate. But can I see where it came from??

Nic decides, upon seeing the projectile fly into Borhorgen's shield, to help Kiara with the trap finding.

Looks like a ghoul.

Withholding action. Spear at the ready

Bohrhorgen is indicating a ghoul is on the other side of the gate, to be clear. The characters with darkvision, or low light, can see it. The halflings are a unique sub race that don’t have darkvision, btw. That leaves Bohrhorgen and Rowan. Any trapfinding will be exposed to crossbow fire. Let me know your plan.

"Lets see how this cloak works....shall we."
I back up and activate the clockwork cloak and use it to climb up above the grating pulling out my wand of burning hands and send a blast through the grate into the hallway filling it with fire.

"As I move around I tell Bohrhorgen and Kiara to look out incoming!"

Steps behind Kiara and casts Resistance on her.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:37, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

Shaking her head, Kiara still cant get used to seeing Mantle climb like a spider, although she remembers how well it served them when Nic used it in the sewers. She stops searching for traps and peers down the hallway that is now ablaze. I wonder if there may be another way in from the top, or around the other side. Perhaps a retreat for now will make an easier path. Kiara motions with a questioning nod, to the party, indicating moving back out and searching for another way. Open to just about anything at the moment, but not wanting to remain at such a drastic disadvantage.

Bohrhorgen will move infront of the grate with his shield raised, waiting for either the party to leave the cave at which point he will back pedal out.  Or wait for an indication from the party they want him to pry the bars out.

This message was deleted by the player at 20:37, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

Another bolt flies out of the corridor, missing everyone. Bohrhorgen sees the ghoul, he looks pretty damaged as he ducks out of sight around the corner.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:38, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

With the nod from Kiara and Mantle, Bohrhorgen peers over his shield to try to spot the ghoul.  If the ghoul is gone he works at the bars with his prybar.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:42, Wed 07 Oct 2020.

I keep watch over Bohrhorgen if I spot the ghoul coming out I shoot him with magic missile.

Bohrhorgen makes quick work of the grate using his Dwarven knowledge and tools while Mantle covers the passage. The tunnel leads in and downward. Around the corner is clear, footprints of humans lead down.

Single file, March order.

Nic pulls his cloak tighter around him, daggers in hand, ready to make the tortuous trek through the caverns, and takes his place in the line going forward.

I climb down off the wall but not retracting and putting the legs away. I step up to the tunnel looking at Bohrhorgen and Kiara with a slight smirk and say "After you ladies and lords." with a deep bow.
Casting a wink at Nick "Neat cloak its much quieter than I thought it would be!"

I take my place in line behind Rowan next to me sister.

Kiara leads the way, squinting into the gloom. Bohrhorgen behind her with a light emitting shield, followed by Rowan, Mantle  Stella, and Nic. Stella pulls out a continual flame torch and hands it to Kiara,"please take care of this, the light can't be seen after 30 feet."
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:16, Sat 10 Oct 2020.

Nic studiously watches the actions and steps of others ahead of him. A bead of sweat begins to form at his brow. I've got a bad feeling about this. He looks back behind him every four to six paces, making sure the return route (should things go wrong) is clear of predators. He makes a point to etch a mark on the left side of the walls about every 30 feet with a white X from some chalk he procures from a belt pouch.

The tunnel you’re in is mostly 10 feet wide and tall, occasionally widening out and narrowing back in. Fortunately, there are no choke points yet. You travel downward slowly. Kiara seems spooked and refuses to hurry. She stops and listens frequently, tuning in to the noises of the dark, of which there is very little. After perhaps an hour of travel, during one of your listening stops, a scream of some sort, well off in the distance, echoes back up to you. It lasts for at least 30 seconds, but it’s hard to be more certain of the duration due to the echoes.

Knowledge nature or Dungeoneering from everyone.

DC 15

Stella and Rowan both mutter, “Shrieker.”

Bohrhorgen says “More than a half hour away, more’n I couldna tell.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:05, Thu 05 Nov 2020.

Nic states, "Well, it sounds like our quarry has evidently made it's way ahead of us, according to the fungal alarm system." Pausing to consider this revelation, he continues "Or, and I could be mistaken, our quarry could in fact be making their way towards us instead. Best to make sure our stealth is of supreme importance going forward."

Your pace slows to a crawl. Kiara is constantly stealthing forward to reconnoiter the path ahead. Then returning to indicate all clear.

Continue moving forward making sure to keep an eye on ceiling

Kiara takes a quick moment to attach the continual flame torch to her backpack. She then grips her longsword in her main hand and firmly holds a light mace in her offhand. Continuing her slow stealthy recon efforts she inches that party on. She starts to ease into a rhythm of inching and listening. Reminding herself that her friends are with her, she will make it if she can use her head and her skills.

Kiara moves forward again, you’ve found that 30 feet ahead leaves Bohrhorgen illuminated to her. The torch is a wonder, when she moves more than 30 feet away, the illumination cuts off and you can’t see it. Those  with darkvision, Bohrhorgen and Rowan, can still see her, but the rest cannot.

Kiara turns back toward toward her party motioning them to stay there, she stealthily returns to the party. Indicating to them that There is a shrieker  about 60 feet ahead, right where the tunnel makes a 90 to the right. Putting her palms up in question, she is quite open to suggestions as to how to pass it without it alerting what lies around the bend.

Well if we're looking to just get past it I might able to help.

I hate to use it up so early but I'd rather use it then not!! 😁

Stella says "I have a silence spell, but only one and I want to use it against a caster. Possibly by casting it on the melee fighters. I'm assuming there are bad people nearby. We can handle it whichever way you decide."

"can the stealthy ones quietly ambush the shrieker?"

No sis you hold that silence spell for a caster if for some reason I can't get us past this threat we'll kill it like everything else in here!!<Blue>

<Blue>So we want to sneak past this little threat!!

"I always wanted to hear a mushroom cry out when I cooked it actually. I'm uncertain if that's your plan though Mantle. What do you have in mind? I'm not sure about stealth when it involves a fungus with no eyes or ears. I'm pretty sure these ones sense vibration or air currents or some such thing." Nic shrugs in response to Rowan's question at the end of his statement.

Well I'm thinking A little more stealth! But I'm not sure how good it'll help. But we can try if you'd like too.

My slippers given to me by Bohrhorgen uncle are pretty cool they can help almost everyone!!

I am willing to try and sneak up on it and give it a whack or 2. But I think it best for Stella to hold onto that spell for more pressing times.
Looking to Mantle: Perhaps with the slippers, you and I can make short order of the thing.
Winking at Nic when she makes the cooking reference.
I do worry about what is around that corner, but the rest of you must keep back a distance as no not alarm the fungi
This message was last edited by the player at 00:33, Tue 10 Nov 2020.

It could be pointless to use the spell on this one, where you find one of these things, there will be others

Nic nods to Kiara and Mantle in agreement, and then to Bohrhorgen. "A good point my bearded friend. Preserving our resources until absolutely necessary is wise in this case. We've no idea how deep this rabbit hole goes, or what faces us along the way. We need to keep our minds sharp and to minimize the expenditures of things that we may need to facilitate a retreat if we need to get out of here in a hurry."

Nic looks to Mantle and addresses him particularly, "An inferno is a heavy deterrent in a closed passageway, and not many things would choose to walk through one when pursuing prey. A snake would not slither through fire to gain access to a warren of rabbits. I'd suggest keeping something in your repertoire in reserve."

He continues, further addressing the rest of the company "Once we've ventured further and have an idea of the layout for this area, I feel it wise to stop at some point and prepare a few waypoints in the event we do need to regroup or, regrettably, retreat from whatever may seem too troublesome. I hope that such will not be the case, but I'm sure that whatever is down here in these tunnels most likely knows them better than we do, and how to access any hidden alcoves or connecting routes. What they won't know is if we've laid anything in store for them, should we find ourselves back-tracking. It would be nice to have some sort of advantage amid this unfamiliar terrain. Let us consider this when we find a suitable place for making a checkpoint of sorts for ourselves. Does anyone feel this is asking too much, and do you have any thoughts about such a plan?
This message was last edited by the player at 21:44, Tue 10 Nov 2020.

Sounds like a good plan

Stella chimes in, “It seems one of our biggest weaknesses is our lack of distance damage. Short and mid range seem adequate. Either we draw them to us, or we move fast before they can prepare. Either way has its own drawbacks.  She looks at Bohrhorgens shield, which is radiating light. “Plus, we have vision issues here that put us at a distinct disadvantage for stealth. We should probably just move up and meet our foes head on, knowing we are at that disadvantage. Ghouls do have one distinct weakness, they Hunger!”
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 22:38, Tue 10 Nov 2020.

"wait till the quiet ones kick the anthill, then charge"

In reply to Rowan (msg # 209):

Stella squints at Rowan, reassessing him yet again, she shrugs. "That, or live bait. Might work out like that either way. I'd sure like to know what's around that corner."

"Well, whoever is taking the initiative here, let me help how I can and administer a little security going forward."Nic exclaims as he readies a spell. (Resistance)

Bohrhorgen looks to Mantle, "So you going to blast that thing or you just want me to smash it and see what comes running?"
"Or,"looking at Rowan"Maybe summon a decoy to attack it while we wait in ambush for whatever comes?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:23, Thu 19 Nov 2020.

"I can stir the pot ifin ya want"