Some things are so useful that, no matter how much trouble they cause, they aren't rooted out at the core and all their proponents hunted to the last man.

Love, for instance. Bookkeeping, perhaps.

Magic, definitely.

Some days, like today, one wishes the dragonmarked houses, the churches and the monasteries or, hey, even the government would just take charge and regulate it, keep it out of the hands of those who, for instance, get it into their heads to breed or build monstrosities and set them loose in the city.

Today's batch of unrestrained unnaturalness is a gang of scruffy-looking homunculi who have charged into a marketplace in one of the large, multitiered chambers that Sharn seems to have an endless number of and to put to an endless number of uses. This one is, or was until moments ago, a bustling market for the good people - well, the people, anyway - of Lower Dura, an old and relatively decrepit ward. Folks need to get food somehow, and the Sovereigns know there's little chance of raising any in the city. Hence: Sharn's many markets.

The homunculi are constructs of wood, metal, crystal bound together with artifice and alchemy. Eight seem patterned after a humanoid form or, rather, a humanoid skeleton. They appear to hold no weapons, but there are parts of their forms that don't appear structural and look sharp. A three other constructs are low to the ground, on four legs. They give an impression of a lizard or oversized cat, but one's eyes are drawn toward their massive jaws which seem purpose made for clamping down hard.

The constructs don't appear to be after food. Not like they would need it themselves. No, these ones are peering about with their goggle-like eyes for something specific, and smashing carts and stalls that, according to whatever does their thinking, might be hiding what they're after. The stalls holding their interest the most hold hard goods: cutlery, kitchenware, pots, tools, and odds and ends. The racket is impressive.

Most of the marketgoers seem to be out of harm's way, Sovereigns be praised. They scattered quickly, their instincts still on high alert, despite the end of the War. They know not to stick around when craziness starts to happen. And they also know that there are often people about who are willing to face down the craziness. Many faces were turned toward a group of armed, capable-looking adventurers, right before many stout shutters were slammed and locked.

---

For whatever reason, your characters were in the market and relatively close to each other when the commotion started. You have all your equipment with you, but you would have quarters somewhere in the city, so you can also have left stuff there, if that makes more sense to you. Going armed and armored in the city is no problem, and in a world with magic, going without obvious gear is no sure indication of harmlessness anyway.

The party is about fifty feet, or 10 squares from the constructs. It's a fairly open area, about 10 squares on a side.

The monsters on the floor with you can see you, so there's no surprise round. Please roll initiative. When you post your initiative, please post a line detailing your character, like so:



That is:
Name: (current hp/max hp; AC/Fortitude/Reflex/Will)

Feel free to ask questions, but please don't take actions or make other rolls.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:59, Mon 02 Nov 2020.

Froodle (34/34  19/16/14/11)
initiative roll 12
This message was last edited by the player at 18:53, Tue 03 Nov 2020.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 1):

Drake 27/27 20(if holding my shield)/16/11/15
Initiative roll 8

Rottimer Lind:(22/22; 17/12/17/13) 10 Initiative
----------
Rottimer looks up from the cart he was perusing and sees people scattering in all directions.

"Uh Oh. Here we go."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:46, Tue 03 Nov 2020.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 1):

Frug (23/23; 15/12/14/14) Initiative 2
Digging around in his pack for some coppers to pay for an onion, eventually looking up.

Maggie [22/22; 15/10/14/15] INIT: 7

Maggie stares blankly about the rapidly emptying market hall, feathered arms akimbo, wishing fervently that she could remember what it was that she came here to purchase.

The constructs notice that the party has not fled like everyone else. Four of the humanoid ones continue their searching, under guard by one of the quadrupeds, the rest move to dissuade these adventurers from interfering.

Two of the quadrupeds move to the middle of the square, spaced a bit apart from each other. Behind them four of the humanoids array themselves, also spread a bit apart. Each of the humanoids bends its arm in an odd way that causes part of its structure to stand out like spines. With a twang a volley of projectiles are loosed. Rottimer, Maggie and Frug take the brunt of the assault.

Is Froodle going to let that aggression stand?

---

18:15, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armatures, rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Initiative
18:16, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Security Armatures, rolled 19 using 1d20+3.  Initiative.

2 Security Armatures:
Move: Walk to center of square, 5 squares from party, 2 squares from each other.
Standard: Ready action: Trigger: A PC approaches to 2 squares. Effect: The armature charges that PC.

4 Retrieval Armatures:
Move: Walk to 1 square behind security, and 1 square apart from nearest retriever.
Standard:
18:38, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC of Froodle. Miss.
18:39, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 17 of Rottimer. Hit, 3 damage.
18:40, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 15 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 15 of Maggie. Hit, 3 damage.
18:41, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 19 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 15 of Frug. 3 damage.

Security Armatures (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two in middle of square, near each other and other attackers, with readied actions.
Retrieval Armatures (8) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square. Four near middle of square, 1 square behind quadrupeds.
Froodle: (34/34  19/16/14/11) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Drake (27/27 20/16/11/15) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.

Froodle acts (part 1)

Froodle looks up, looks around and sees a needle like projectile twang off his shield. Instinctively he sees red and moves to punish the foolish humanoids who would mess with him. He advances towards the centre of the square, intent on breathing fire and swinging his battleaxe to teach them a lesson. The humanoids in the way are of no concern, they will be brushed aside, though if they want to join the fight, even better in the eyes of Froodle. He dealt with many group scuffles in his youth - he was the toughest kid around, afraid of no-one.

Move: walk to the centre of the market place between the two humanoids (security armatures). Before getting there this will prompt the prepared charge actions from the security armatures.
Standard and minor actions to follow once the interrupt is resolved

As Froodle approaches, the quadrupeds lunge for him. As they move, one can see that their outer surfaces have a metallic sheen: one coppery, the other silvery. The coppery one bounces off Froodle's shield, but the silvery one gets in under the fighter's guard. Its too-large jaws gnash at him, and Froodle to react quickly to stay whole. His dragonborn blood begins to boil.

Froodle, take your remaining actions, then Rottimer is up.

---

Coppery quadruped:
Immediate reaction: Readied action
12:46, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Coppery quadruped, rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Charge with bite +7 vs. AC 19 of Froodle. Miss.

Silvery quadruped:
Immediate reaction: Readied action
12:47, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Silvery quadruped, rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Charge with bite +7 vs. AC 19 of Froodle. Hit.
12:48, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Silvery quadruped, rolled 17 using 1d10+9.  Bite damage (with nearby ally) 1d10+9.

Features of the area: Normal light. Carts and stalls around outside of area, numerous exits from area.

Security Armatures (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near middle of square engaged with Froodle.
Retrieval Armatures (8) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square. Four near middle of square, 1 square behind quadrupeds.
Froodle: (17/34  19/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. BLOODIED.
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Drake (27/27 20/16/11/15) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.

Froodle is furious, his fury works in his favour though, simply focusing his attacks on his enemies.
Minor: Froodle opens up with a furious roar, blasting fire over the coppery and silvery quadrupeds, extending the flame to also engulf the four humanoids that enraged him and caused him to react.
1d20+str(4)+2+1(bloodied)
Froodle rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 13 of coppery quadruped
Froodle rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 13 of silvery quadruped
Froodle rolled 12 using 1d20+7.  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid 1. Miss
Froodle rolled 20 using 1d20+7.  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid 2
Froodle rolled 10 using 1d20+7.  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid 3. Miss
The silvery quadruped took the full force of Froodle’s flame, taking 8 points of damage while the coppery quadruped beside him and one of the humanoid creatures got off lighter taking 5 points of damage roll of 1d6+2. This was however enough to fry the nasty humanoid to a crisp

Froodle cannot believe the quadrupeds are not backing down, so swings for the silvery quadruped again, cleaving with his battleaxe, a swing so wild he hopes to also follow through into the coppery quadruped creature.
Standard:
Froodle rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Cleave +7 vs AC 15 of silvery quadruped
Froodle rolled 12 (1d10+4) cleave damage with battleaxe on silvery quadruped
Froodle follows through on the copper quadruped causing 4 points of damage (str mod)

Froodle is happy now, he’s in a fight, he’s bloodied, and he’s hurting others
Security Armatures (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near middle of square engaged with Froodle.
Silver: (28/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Copper: (39/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Retrieval Armatures (7) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square. Three near middle of square, 3 squares behind quadrupeds.
Froodle: (17/34  19/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. BLOODIED.
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Drake (27/27 20/16/11/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:00, Thu 05 Nov 2020.

"Well, that escalated quickly!" Rottimer quips to no one in particular, trying to get his bearings as the constructs start to disperse and even fire upon him and his colleagues. "Ouch! that bites!" Rottimer shouts as he feels a small projectile pierce his leather armor. Then suddenly from beside him, he sees Froodle immediately advance into and amongst the aggressors, taking some shots on the way before breathing fire. That always made him feel uncomfortable. Rottimer struggled with the spicier fair common in lower dura. The idea of actual flames leaving his mouth made him cringe. But in this moment, he embraced the big guys talents. Rottimer takes a deep breath as he pulls his bow around his shoulder, knocking an arrow in one clean move. He takes aim at the silvery armature near froodle which appears to be heavily singed and attempts to put an arrow into its mechanicals. He then takes a few steps back towards a nearby stall to keep his distance from any advancing constructs and watches to see if he can discern what they might be searching for.

---

Rottimer: Standard Action, Disruptive Shot. Move Action backs away from group and takes partial cover behind a nearby merchants stall.

23:13, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 20 using 1d20+9 vs Silver armature AC.
23:24, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 15 using 1d10+5.  Disruptive Shot Damage. Also Dazes. (or immobilize, chose Daze)

Security Armatures (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near middle of square engaged with Froodle.
Silver: (13/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends)
Copper: (39/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Retrieval Armatures (7) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square. Three near middle of square, 3 squares behind quadrupeds.
Froodle: (17/34  19/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. BLOODIED.
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped.
Drake (27/27 20/16/11/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:34, Fri 06 Nov 2020.

The silvery quadruped jerks back as Rottimer's missile strikes it. A portion of its outer integument is gouged open, and it seems to be having trouble working its jaw and moving at the same time.

Drake is up!

---

Security Armatures: (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near middle of square engaged with Froodle.
Silvery: (13/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends), BLOODIED.
Coppery: (39/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Retrieval Armatures: (7) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square. Three near middle of square, 3 squares behind quadrupeds.
Froodle: (17/34; 19/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. BLOODIED.
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20/16/11/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.

Drake witnesses the disturbance and destruction wrought by the constructs. The attack on the other people in the market square inflames him. The cowardice shown by the attackers, their lack of honour, they are contemptible. Drake sees the other Dragonborn ‘Froodle’ advance towards the attackers, his fiery reply to their attack,  and the swing of his axe .... ‘YES a chance to perfect my skills’ he thinks. Bahamut demands the balance of law and order, in his name Drake will act and in any case why should others have all the fun!

Drake nods to Rottimer as he joins the fray admiring his skill with a bow, and advances to the left of Froodle. ‘Brother no need to hog all the honour, here something to keep you whole’ he says to Froodle with a wry smile, reaching out with his sword hand and touching Froodles arm, whilst focusing on Bahamuts grace, he feels the healing energy flow through him to repair the bite wound that ails him.

———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Drake opens his mouth and roars a stream of fire hitting coppery and silvery quadrupeds, extending the flame to also engulf the three remaining humanoids in range.

1d20+str(4)+2
Drake rolled 17 using 1d20+6+ 2 (dazed) Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 13 of coppery quadruped
Drake rolled 14 using 1d20+ 6 Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 13 of silvery quadruped
Drake rolled 24 using 1d20+ 6 Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid 1.
Drake rolled 16 using 1d20+ 6 Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid  2.
Drake rolled 18 using 1d20+ 6  Dragon breath +6 vs reflex 14 of humanoid 3.
Drakes flame 1D6+1 accurately strikes the silvery and coppery quadruped almost full on, which both take 6 points of damage. The three of the humanoids (1, 2 and 3) disintegrate in balls of fire taking 6 points each.

Minor action
Lay on hands and healing hands healing Feat Froodle receives 14 hp in total for his healing surge value of 10 +4 charisma ( Drake expends 1 healing surge taking him to 10)

Minor action
Dragon breath-  Fire

Drake Makes ready his long sword and shield for the next attack.


Security Armatures: (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near middle of square engaged with Froodle and Drake.
Silvery: (7/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends), BLOODIED.
Coppery: (33/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square.
Froodle: (31/34; 19/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. Having received (14) hp of healing
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20/16/11/15) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds stood shoulder to shoulder with Froodle
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped
This message was last edited by the player at 11:11, Fri 06 Nov 2020.

Frug notices that things are afoot, pulling a spike from himself and looks out to the party. Thinking, I wonder who made these fine constructs, he says something completely different, “May Onatar keep you safe Froodle and Drake.” Gleaming blades appear and slash at Silvery and Coppery, then becoming radiant shields around Froodle and Drake. He then walks fifteen feet away from the battle.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frug invokes Blades of Astral Fire.
Frug rolled 10 using 1d20+4 10 vs Reflex on Silvery miss
Frug rolled 10 using 1d20+4.  Astral Blades of Fire. vs Reflex on Coppery miss
Effect +4AC to Drake and Froodle until the end of my next turn

Security Armatures: (3) (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) 1 near searchers, two near the middle of square engaged with Froodle and Drake.
Silvery: (7/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends), BLOODIED.
Coppery: (33/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9)
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Four searching on far side of square.
Froodle: (31/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. Having received (14) hp of healing
Rottimer Lind: (19/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds stood shoulder to shoulder with Froodle
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (20/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

The forward line of the humanoid constructs is on the ground, twitching and smoldering. The quadrupeds snap at Froodle and, somewhat ironically, it is the severely damaged one that is able to have the most effect. Its ally tries to finish the dragonborn off, but can't find purchase.

The armatures on the far side of the square take notice of these events. The other quadruped, this one having a golden sheen, moves up, ready to charge anyone who gets close. One armature takes cover behind it, and another moves to the side of the square. These two attack, while two others move behind stalls for some protection while they continue their search. Rottimer and Frug get the business end of a couple of spines.

Froodle's allies are under attack while he's tangling with these snapjaws. What will he do?

---

Silvery: (Dazed)
Standard: 21:32, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Silvery quadruped, rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Bite +7 vs. AC 23 of Froodle. Hit.
21:34, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Silvery quadruped, rolled 17 using 1d10+9.  Bite damage, 1d10+9.

Coppery:
Standard:
21:35, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Coppery quadruped, rolled 12 using 1d20+7.  Bite +7 vs. AC 23 of Froodle.

Gilded:
Move: Move 1 square up, several squares from the other two.
Standard: Ready an action: Charge an enemy. Trigger: An enemy moves within 2 squares.

Retriever:
Move: Stand behind gilded quadruped (partial cover).
Standard: 21:43, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 17 of Rottimer. Hit: 3 damage. (Hits even with Rottimer's cover.)

Retriever:
Move: Walk 5 party's right, still on far side of square.
Standard: 21:46, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 15 of Frug. Hit. 3 damage.

Silvery: (7/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends), BLOODIED. Marked by Froodle. Engaged with Froodle.
Coppery: (33/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Marked by Froodle. Engaged with Froodle.
Gilded: (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9). A few squares behind other quadrupeds. Readied action.
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (14/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11) BLOODIED. Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. +4 AC.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds stood shoulder to shoulder with Froodle
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

Froodle is satisfied, though grateful for the invigorating burst of energy supplied by Drake and the boost to his armour from Frug, he’s where he wants to be again – bloodied and in the midst of a scrap. He calls out “at last a worthy adversary” in a grunting tone as he sees the blows rein down on the silvery quadruped in front of him, impressed by the number of blows it has taken from himself, Rottimer and Drake, yet it remains standing and fighting.

He raises his battleaxe again and swings a wide arc, aiming to cleave the now dazed silvery creature again and follow through into the coppery accomplice. He sees his aim is true, inflicting harm on both creatures, but must have hit bone on the silvery one as the cut does not run deep. It still will not die!

Nevertheless, Froodle decides the silvery creature is but fodder for others now and turns his attention to the coppery quadruped. Using an extra burst of energy (action point), he swipes at the creature, seeking strength and resolve to continue the fight. The turn of focus towards another foe interferes with his aim though and he swings wildly, missing the creature.

He shifts a glance over at Rottimer, looking hopefully now for some help in finishing off at least one of these worthy fighting creatures, though surely they wouldn’t dare fight anyone else (marked)! Their time has come to die!

Froodle rolled 28 using 1d20+10.  Cleave +10 (forgot weapon talent last round) vs AC 15 of silvery quadruped

Froodle rolled 5 (1d10+4) cleave damage with battleaxe on silvery quadruped

Froodle follows through on the copper quadruped causing 4 points of damage (str mod)

Froodle rolled 13 using 1d20+8.  Comeback strike 1d20+8 vs AC 15 of silvery quadruped. Miss


Silvery: (2/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) DAZED (save ends), BLOODIED. Marked by Froodle. Engaged with Froodle.
Coppery: (29/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Marked by Froodle. Engaged with Froodle.
Gilded: (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9). A few squares behind other quadrupeds. Readied action.
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (14/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11) BLOODIED. Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. +4 AC.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds stood shoulder to shoulder with Froodle
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

From behind cover, Rottimer is scanning the scene. Things are happening fast. His attention is tuned to the glint of steel flashing amongst the haze of flame engulfing the central area of the square when suddenly a sharp pain erupts from his exposed shoulder. His attention immediately snaps to the dark quivering spine embedded in his leather armor. "Gads, these things are nasty!" he mutters to himself. In that moment, he catches a glance from Froodle and is abruptly pulled back to the moment. He sees Froodles wide eyes looking from himself to the silver and copper constructs, now smouldering but still on their feet. Rottimer nods in response while grabbing the nearest shafts in his quiver. He'll have to draw fast to get 2 arrows in the air simultaneously before his targets can move. He leans out slightly and lets the thin shafts fly. He nods at Froodle as he releases and the arrows fly true, one on either side of Froodles raise axe head, finding their targets both.

---

Rottimer uses Rapid shot to target both constructs engaged with Froodle. Hits both, kills silvery.

14:18, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 9 using 1d10+5.  Rapid shot damage v/ silver.
14:18, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 12 using 1d10+5.  Rapid shot damage v/ copper.
14:18, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 28 using 1d20+9.  Rapid shot (w/CA for dazed) v/Silver.
14:16, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Rapid Shot v/ Copper.

Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (17/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) BLOODIED Marked by Froodle. Engaged with Froodle.
Gilded: (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9). A few squares behind other quadrupeds. Readied action.
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (14/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11) BLOODIED. Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds. +4 AC.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) Near middle of square, engaged with silvery and coppery quadrupeds stood shoulder to shoulder with Froodle
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped
This message was last edited by the player at 20:26, Tue 10 Nov 2020.

Drake assess the scene seeing the once calm market place now in the full grip of battle. A nod of admiration to Rottimer as his arrows fly true  and a thrill by witnessing the  justice of Bahamut, as he  restores order when the Silvery creature dies.
Froodle’s Dragonborn blood flows freely again after having taken another big hit, Drake can assist and bring down Bahamuts judgement upon the Coppery construct as well as healing Froodle on the front line. He swings his longsword with all his might whilst focusing on Bahamut’s almighty power, focusing on the perfect hit. The sword finds its mark but, hits metal with a chunk of the construct flying off , in doing so Drake focuses the sublime energy of Bahamut aiding Froodle to heal himself through the gods grace.
Noticing that the creature is almost dead, Drake reverse’s his swing and strikes again without mercy or reprieve, gaining protection from Bahamut as he knows the fight will continue with the remaining constructs. Drake sees the life drain from the construct with satisfaction.
‘Who’s next’ he roars’

He fixes his eye on the Gilded  construct which appears ready to pounce and raising his arm pointing his sword he shouts ‘You will fight me by Bahamut’

Drake advances to engage the Gilded beast at close range

Standard action
Paladin’s Judgement Daily power  1D 20+8 = 20
 3 w damage + str modifier Damage =16 plus allows Froodle to use a healing surge 10hp regained.

Action Point
Standard action Bolstering strike 1D20+6 =16
 damage 1d10+4 = 7 kills Coppery
Drake gains +2 temporary hit points

Minor action
Divine challenge

Move action
Closes to Melee with the Gilded construct triggering readied action

————————————————————————————————————


Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9). A few squares behind other quadrupeds. Readied action triggered as Drake closes to melee
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to the dead bodies of  silvery and coppery quadrupeds +4 AC. Having received 10hp from his own healing surge.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; (+ 2 temporary hit points), 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) closing with Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped
This message was last edited by the player at 09:31, Wed 11 Nov 2020.

( With permission of the DM)

The Gilded quadruped snaps into action as Drake closes with it and charges forward. The Gilded quadruped is about to bole Drake over when it goes for a bite using its momentum to assist. As he does so Drake side steps and the quadruped strikes nothing but air. He readies himself  in front of Drake ready to do battle.

Readied action Charge and bite
1d20+8 = 23 Miss vs AC 20 (+4 temp AC)

Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (48/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Engaged with Drake closes to melee and divine challenged by Drake
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to the dead bodies of  silvery and coppery quadrupeds +4 AC. Having received 10hp from his own healing surge.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; (+ 2 temporary hit points), 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) closing with Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped
This message was last edited by the player at 19:01, Wed 11 Nov 2020.

In reply to Drake (msg # 19):

Frug, seeing that shielding is helping the party, calls out “By Onatar these constructs go against the good of creating, let his light avenge this destruction!” Moving back some more, Frug ducks behind a vendor's stall.

Avenging Light on Gilded 12:09, Today: Frug rolled 20 using 1d20+4 vs Fort. 12:10, Today: Frug rolled 13 using 1d10+4. Radiant
Movement back 2 square behind vendor's stall for partial concealment.

Readied action Charge and bite
1d20+8 = 23 Miss vs AC 20 (+4 temp AC)

Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (35/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Engaged with Drake closes to melee and divine challenged by Drake
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19(temp +4 for 23 until Frug’s next turn)/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to the dead bodies of  silvery and coppery quadrupeds +4 AC. Having received 10hp from his own healing surge.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; (+ 2 temporary hit points), 20(temp +4 for 24 until Frug’s next turn)/16/11/15) closing with Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

The remaining quadruped is single minded in its efforts and is happy to obey the will of the dragon gods in attacking Drake. Indeed, this construct's bite would do a dragon proud.

The two humanoid constructs keep up their suppressing attacks on the other, softer targets of the group.

---

Gilded:
18:13, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Gilded quadruped, rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Standard: Bite +7 vs. AC 20 of Drake.
18:15, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Gilded quadruped, rolled 9 using 1d10+4.  Bite damage 1d10+4. 7 damage after temporary HP are used.

Retrieval armature:
Move: Walk to behind gilded quadruped for cover.
Standard: 18:18, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 17 of Rottimer. Miss.

Retrieval armature.
Move: Walk to PCs' "side" of the plaza.
Standard: 18:19, Today: DM Paul, for the NPC Retrieval Armature, rolled 25 using 1d20+6.  Spine flinger +6 vs. AC 15 of Frug. Hit. 3 damage.

Gilded: (35/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Engaged with Drake. Divine challenged by Drake
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to the dead bodies of  silvery and coppery quadrupeds +4 AC. Having received 10hp from his own healing surge.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near starting location. Partial cover.
Drake: (20/27; 20/16/11/15) Engaged with Gilded quadruped. Marking gilded quadruped.
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near starting location.
Frug: (14/23; 15/12/14/14) Near starting location.

Froodle’s fury subsides as he gains short respite from the thick of battle. He nods to Rottimer Lind, a look of thanks for the arrow that finished off the silvery quadruped.
Two creatures are but a few steps away now, gilded and one of the armatures who appears less cowardly than the others. Drake has already advanced, but Froodle isn’t going to let anyone have more fun than him. He steps forward and engages gilded, a passing attack that will take him past (shift) and follow through to the armature. “Grrrr” he lets out a roar as the battleaxe just fails to penetrate. “Fight me!!" he screams at the creature, issuing a combat challenge.

Froodle rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  Passing attack +7 vs AC 15 of gilded quadruped.Miss

Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (35/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Engaged with Drake and Froodle combat challenged by Froodle
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, engaged with gilded.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; (+ 2 temporary hit points), 20/16/11/15) engaged with Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

After nearly being blinded by a flashing light from Frug and regaining his focus, rottimer barely noticed the darts whistling overhead. He was still a target. Thankful for his cover, Rottimer felt a sense of satisfaction as he saw Drake and Froogle standing over the twitching silver and copper constructs. The last standing was now out numbered and there was little that Rottimer liked more than a lopsided fight in his own favor. The sense of calm that washed over him gave him new confidence. He took careful aim at the gilded creature now locked in combat and fired twice in sequence with a maximum draw. After releasing the second arrow, Rottimer shook the tension from his arm, smiling as both shafts found their target.

---

Standard: Careful attack
Action Point: Careful attack

09:09, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 15 using 1d10+5.  Second attacks damage vs. gilded.
09:08, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 14 using 1d10+5.  First attacks damage vs. gilded.
09:08, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 29 using 1d20+11.  Careful attack #2 vs. gilded.
09:06, Today: Rottimer Lind rolled 16 using 1d20+11.  Careful attack #1 vs. gilded.

Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (6/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Engaged with Drake and Froodle combat challenged by Froodle BLOODIED
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind gilded quadruped. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, engaged with gilded.
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (27/27; (+ 2 temporary hit points), 20/16/11/15) engaged with Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

Drake relishes the engagement with the Gilded being,
He notes the injuries sustained by the being and is impressed with the arrows that hit like logs from Rottimer.

Drake invokes  Bahamut’s  name and spikes spring out from his Longsword making it appear like a long mace rather than a sword..

The spikes sword hits true smashing wood and metal aside and he nods as it’s many parts fall on the ground lifeless (Dead).l

‘By Bahamut you will Engage me’ he roars to the nearest Armature that now stands behind the lifeless pieces of the Gilded construct
He moves forward to engage with his sword and shield at the ready.


Standard action
Piercing Smite  1D 20+8 = 19 vs AC
2 w damage + str modifier Damage = 13 damage

Minor action
Divine challenge nearest Armature


Move action
Closes to Melee with the Armature



Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Dead
Retrieval Armatures: (4) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind dead body of gilded quadrupe engaged in melee with Drake and divine challenged. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to dead Gilded’s body
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (20/27; (20/16/11/15) engaged with armature behind dead body of Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped
This message was last edited by the player at 15:11, Sat 14 Nov 2020.

Frug Seeing a retrieval armature off to the side, keeping distance, says, “Being socially distant is my job you decrepit construct.” From his staff a radiant sphere of light goes flying at the construct. The construct is seared by the light and searches no more....

Frug used Avenging Light on the retrieval armature keeping to the side and rolled 16 using 1d20+4 versus fort.
Silvery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead.
Coppery: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+3/9) Dead
Gilded: (0/48; 15/15/13/12; +7, 1d10+4/9) Dead
Retrieval Armatures: (4-1=3) (1/1; 16/13/14/13; +6, 4) Two searching on far side of square. One behind dead body of gilded quadrupe engaged in melee with Drake and divine challenged. One off to side of square, keeping distance.
Froodle: (24/34; 19/16/14/11)  Near middle of square, stood next to dead Gilded’s body
Rottimer Lind: (16/22; 17/12/17/13) Near rest of party, 5 squares from nearest quadruped, in partial cover.
Drake: (20/27; (20/16/11/15) engaged with armature behind dead body of Gilded quadruped
Maggie: (19/22; 15/10/14/15) Near rest of party, 3 squares from nearest quadruped.
Frug: (17/23; 15/12/14/14) Near rest of party, 6 squares from nearest quadruped

The humanoid constructs decide to abandon the fight, but it's not clear if they were successful in their search or not. Each one turns from the party and tries to escape into the deeper clutter of the marketplace.

From the direction in which one of the constructs ran, a dark shape can be seen dropping from a bridge. There's a tremendous crash and a plume of dust rises into view. From where another of the humanoids ran, there's a flash and a pop, and the sound of a spindly metal body dropping. From the first direction a hulking form pushes its way through the carts into the square: another construct! This one is different though, as it is more complete-looking, apart from a face that looks like it was shattered and not correctly repaired. From one of its three-fingered hands dangles one of the humanoids, or the wreckage of one.

The warforged - for this is what this new figure is - looks at the party and the remains of the battle. Or it seems to; its eyes don't seem to point in quite the same direction. Then its head turns in the direction of another person moving into the square.

"No, no, don't help," says a half-elf in bedraggled business attire. "I've got it." What he's got is another of the humanoids. He's dragging it behind him into square and it isn't putting up a fight. This may be related to the scorch marks around its midsection.

The half-elf gives another yank and then drops his load to look around. "I was kid - oh," he says, catching sight of the party. "Right. Well done, you lot. We'll take it from here. Hey, let's get this going, shall we?" He snaps his fingers to get the attention of the warforged, who'd been looking, more or less, at the party again. The scarred behemoth tromps over to lay its bundle next to the other one, where the pair look over them, the half-elf murmuring to the warforged now and then.

Opposite this situation, and somewhat outside the square is another commotion. A tall, well-dressed human is shouting at grey-haired dwarf in workman's leathers. "I only deigned to come down to this slum because you promised me you'd have it ready! Now I've had to deal with this nonsense in the market in addition to your excuses. I'd haul you in now for breach of contract but I'm late as it is. You'd better hope you've got it ready the next time I call for it!" The man sets off across the former battlefield, his hand on the pommel of a sheathed, but impressive-looking sword. An even more impressive birthmark of iridescent whorls decorates the man's hand - a dragonmark of House Deneith.

The dwarf rubs his face with one hand as he watches the human leave, then strokes his beard as he looks at the party and their handiwork. Around him, the market tries to return to business as usual.

What does the party do?

---

Status:
Party arrayed around the square, roughly where they were at the end of the encounter.
Warforged and half-elf by two dead humanoid constructs.
House Deneith man walking past.
Dwarf artisan standing inside square.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 26):

Drake stands amongst the detritus of the constructs nearest the half elf, he is pleased that order has been restored ‘Why did these constructs cause this mayhem; What did they seek ?’ He asks the Half elf in a friendly tone.

Froodle surveys the aftermath of their handywork, a sense of satisfaction flows through him.

He was born to fight, and the market square has provided an unexpected opportunity for his hobby today.

He watches the dwarf with interest, but also aware his powers of perception and insight are not great. He will leave the talking to others and clean his battleaxe while feeling a surge of health return in the present calm (use healing surge to return to max hp - 9/11 remaining). .

In reply to Froodle (msg # 28):

Rottimer is removing a dart from his armor as he notices the Warforged and half elf approach. He's curious about two such characters who could so nonchalantly dispatch these enemies. But while he considers what to say, Drake approaches them. So while Rottimer listens to the response to Drake, he meanders about the square checking the downed constructs for any valuable parts or baubles that might be useful in trade. He takes note of the Dragon mark on the hand of the human who stomps by him.

In reply to Rottimer Lind (msg # 29):

Frug comes into the square and heads towards the nearest construct to investigate. Pulling off his pack, while bending down to rest on one knee. Frug produces a magnifying glass and looks over the creature. Eventually a long metal stick is produced to move loose parts and pieces around, with an occasional head scratch.

"Eh?" says the half-elf, startled from his focus on the wreckage. "Oh. Well, there isn't much to seek in this market, no offence to anyone. As to why, I don't think someone could prove that they're not just some mad artificer's mad creations, doing mad things. We're hoping to be able to figure it out before too many more of these disruptions occur."

He offers a hand to the dragonborn. "Rian Blackfeather. I'm an inquisitive for the Sharn Council. This is..." He turns as if to introduce the warforged, but finds that it has moved off. Blackfeather puffs out a sigh.




As with most such creatures, the materials of which these are composed have been alchemically treated to augment those properties that contribute toward emulating life and vitality. The violence done to the creatures has disrupted whatever formulae had been at work. It would take time and effort to salvage anything useful and nothing about them seems particularly worth that investment.

As the man walks past, he takes note of Rottimer's note, and of Froodle's air of satisfaction. He pauses. "I suppose I should thank you for taking care of this irritation as quickly as possible. Devlin d'Deneith, at your service," he bows, but does not actually offer his thanks and it's doubtful that he, a dragonmarked noble, is actually offering anyone in the party his service. "House Deneith is always on the lookout for talent. If you can bring some proof that you're capable of taking on more than these toy soldiers, come by our enclave." There's a moment in which one could respond to this, but Lord Devlin is clearly ready to move on to his next appointment.


The magical lamplight of the market offers little enough illumination - thank goodness for sharp, if unsettling, fey eyes - but suddenly half of them seem to go out entirely. In fact it's just the vast shadow of the warforged, who is looming over Frug. It bends down and lifts the arcane carcass up over the gnome's head. It then lumbers over to the one near Rottimer, hefts it, and walks back over to Rian.

"As I was saying," says Rian, "this is Pro. Thank you, Pro. Now, I don't want to keep you," he says to Drake, "I'm sure you're busy. Though... if you're not too busy, maybe you and your friends would be willing to take some work off my hands?

---

Devlin and Rian are both offering quests.
Devlin is saying that if the PCs were to bring him a trophy from the defeat of a group of worthy enemies, he might have more work for them. The dragonmarked houses pay well for loyal, professional help. Even if they don't care to impress Devlin, such an accomplishment would be worth 600 xp (a level 3 major quest).

Rian is looking for information about some goings on elsewhere in Sharn. It seems unlikely that's he'd pay well for it, but he seems to have his own ties to power which might be worth latching onto. Again, even if you don't do it for his benefit, doing some inquisitive-type work would be good experience. 400 XP good, in fact (a level 1 major quest).

The dwarf has something, too. I wonder if it's in some way related to the other jobs....

Status:
Devlin d'Deneith near Rottimer and Froodle.
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Dwarf looking like he would like to talk to the party after Devlin leaves.

Froodle is most interested in Devlin's proposal - more work involving a good fight, if we can bring a trophy stolen from some worthy opponents

His dragonborn features spread a great gleeful smile across his face, this character is worth making friends with. He asks Devlin what sort of trophy he would like, and whether he has any particular foes in mind that need "sorting out".

Conscious too that the dwarf is hanging around, there could be more work in the offing. This has been a worthwhile trip to the market, though, as his tummy rumbles, he remembers he still has to buy some lunch
This message was last edited by the player at 14:35, Thu 19 Nov 2020.

In reply to Froodle (msg # 32):

Rottimer nods to Foodle, and says openly "Well said, this sounds like something we have the right.....temperament.....for." And then adds quietly "But, give a thought. We may have 2 birds in one bush here. I've been in Sharn long enough to know that information doesn't come without a scuffle. We might be able to help Rian and get a trophy in the process we could bring to Devlin."
----------------------------------------
Status:
Devlin d'Deneith near Rottimer and Froodle.
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Dwarf looking like he would like to talk to the party after Devlin leaves.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:22, Thu 19 Nov 2020.

Drake puts out his hand and shakes Rian’s hand
‘Drake pleased to meet you. Your not keeping us it’s a pleasure to help restore some order. What work could we assist with, I’d hope it’s in keeping with our skills, and is an honourable endeavour?’

Meanwhile he notices the dwarf hovering and overhears the conversation with Devlin which also sparks his interest. More opportunities to sharpen his skills what a beneficial skirmish this has turned out to be. Hmm a possibility to assist all these individuals, what glory that would bring he thinks.




----------------------------------------
Status:
Devlin d'Deneith near Rottimer and Froodle.
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Dwarf looking like he would like to talk to the party after Devlin leaves.
</quote>

In reply to Rottimer Lind (msg # 33):

Frug joins Rottimer and looking at the constructs, scratches his cap and sighs.

"Well," Devlin glances over at the dwarf artisan with a scowl and says ruefully, "I may be in the market for a dragonhide...." he shakes his head. "But even if you were to go dragonhunting and succeed, it takes people and resources to preserve it properly. No, nevermind. Look, it's simply about what's impressive. These things you just fought? Not impressive. Some street thug's dirty ear? Of course not. It needs to be something that belonged to a worthy adversary, who wouldn't give it up willingly.

"And this is Sharn. There's no shortage of thugs in this city that need to be put down for the sake of the peace. Prove you've done something like that and House Deneith won't be the only ones interested in your services."


The borborygmus of a dragonborn is an awe inspiring thing. Several food vendors hear it from yards away and can be seen mentally calculating whether it's smarter to double their prices, or halve them. Devlin's eye's go wide and he laughs, not unpleasantly. "Well, well. If I were half as hungry as you, I'd be out there making sure everyone in this accursed city knew my name. Well, I suppose they do, in my case. Now, you really must excuse me. Dol Dorn guide you," he say way of valediction, offering a abbreviated gesture to respect to the Sovereign of strength and battle. Then he departs.


Rian pulls a very serious expression. "Oh, yes, honorable. And I can't say I know your skills, except that you seem to be able to take care of yourselves, which is half of an inquisitive's work anyway.

"What the Council is looking for is information about a black market ice selling operation. Now, now, I know that it's not a break in at a Kundarak vault, but one needs to start small. And it's a service to the Council. Look into it, then find us and we'll, uh, pass the information along and get you your share of the fee."

Rian suggests some areas to search. They're outside the currently "civilized" areas of Lower Dura, and dozens of levels down from where the party is right now. He's evasive about the fee.

----------------------------------------
Status:
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Dwarf looking like he would like to talk to the party after Devlin leaves.

Drake listens intently to Devlins proposal and is intrigued at what a worthy adversary would be and who the street thugs may be who would fit this catergory!
Drake uses his knowledge of Sharn and his dungeoneering skills to determine who a worthy adversary may be.



Drake  Is interested in this proposal, he uses his insight to try and establish Rian’s truthfulness regarding the potential share and his diplomacy skills asking ‘You seem a little vague on the share of the fee, could you be more specific as I’ll need to speak to the rest of the party about the details. Any detail you can provide will assist and in turn any quickly completed task that would aid the council, would be beneficial to you with the fee and the honor this will reflect on your efficiency as inquisitor I am sure wouldn’t hurt your position.’

Drake appeals to Rians pocket and status utilizing his skill in diplomacy and feeling a very good connection with Rian in doing so.


----------------------------------------
Status:
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Dwarf looking like he would like to talk to the party after Devlin leaves.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:00, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

Froodle now concentrates on lunch, waiting for Devlin to leave

He's hungry and the stallholders know it, if his insight reveals any price increases, then he will use his presence (intimidate) to restore their natural level.

He keeps an eye on the dwarf, the odd eye contact to say "we know you are waiting, we are keen to see what you have to say"

In reply to Froodle (msg # 38):

Frug is offering help to the returning merchants. Seeing where he can fix things and keeping an ear open for anyone talking about any of the parties we’re talking with. Looking for people that may have stumbled over themselves and got hurt to offer healing.

Rottimer's ears perk up when he hears talk of a black market ice selling operation. In his youth, black market ice was a constant source of turmoil for many Rottimer knew. It would seep into neighborhoods and slowly but surely destroy what little social fabric held things together in the lower regions of Sharn. It was only by a miracle that Rottimer avoided its predations and was able acquire a useful skill to get out. A miracle and a good friend. A friend long gone. Perhaps it was time to mete out some justice for past wrongs. If Rottimer had a chance to frustrate even a small ring of ice distribution by informing to the council, he'd jump at the opportunity. Just then Rottimers thoughts were disrupted by a mildly disturbing rumble coming from Froodle.

In reply to Frug (msg # 39):

Frug comes up to the Dwarf, as he is helping and healing the local merchants. “How do you do? I’m Frug and I noticed that you’re interested in the way that we handled those constructs.” Frug offers a hand in greeting.

The dwarf wipes his hands on his apron and takes Frug's. "Teldorthan Goldcap, at your service. And it's more that you seems like you're not afraid of much. The rest of us hid behind closed doors and prayed to the Sovereign Host or even the Dark Six that someone would keep those things at bay. So, my thanks to you.

"Uh, if you're looking for paying work, I have some I can offer you. I was supposed to receive a delivery a few days ago, but the courier was waylaid. They survived, Host be praised, but they lost the case over the side of the bridge they were on. When we went to look for it, we saw it being carried off by a group of what looked like kobolds. The one ordering the others around was wearing some sort of a bone mask, so we figured they were a gang of some kind, and not to be trifled with.

"I hate to say it, but the path they were on looked like they'd be heading into that fog zone that's sprung up on the outskirts, and down a ways. There's not a chance of me or mine heading into there, so I figured it was lost. Things happen, you know? But it means I can't fill a particular order, and my customer," Goldcap glances in the direction Develin d'Deneith had taken, "was none too sympathetic.

"So, to keep a long story from going longer, if you and your friends were to fetch back my property, I'd pay you for it, 200 gold Galifars. I need it sooner rather than later, though., as you may have heard. What do you say?"

---

The fog zone is, naturally, a region of fog. Except it's not natural. It's persistent in a way that normal fog banks in Sharn are not, and by all accounts it's far colder within the fog than it should be.

The party will find, upon discussion, that by some kind of coincidence the fog zone is one of the areas Rian suggested be searched for signs of the ice runners.

Status:
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Frug talking to Teldorthan Goldcap.

Quests:
Obtain a trophy from a worthy adversary: 600 xp.
Gather information about the source of the illegal ice: 400 xp.
Return Goldcap's property: 400 xp, 200 gp.

Keeping an eye on the dwarf was a good idea thinks Froodle to himself, appetite now sated. His ears prick up as Frug’s conversation has revealed a name, Goldcap. No, not one he recognises, but maybe one to remember.

He wanders over to join Frug and chips into the conversation. “That sounds like just our sort of thing, Kobolds, pah, I swat them like flies”
Froodle thinks to himself he would prefer a more worthy adversary, but no doubt they will present themselves in time for the quest offered by Devlin. The dwarf is offering something right now.

His mind returns to the task being offered and he asks “Would you happen to have a map, showing where this happened? Or at least some simple directions we can follow? Also, can you describe the case and contents, in the event they have opened it?”

“I am willing to help, and I’m sure my comrades will be too once we have purchased any necessary supplies”

Status:
Drake near Rian and Pro.
Frug and Froodle talking to Teldorthan Goldcap.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:18, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

In reply to Froodle (msg # 43):

“Thanks for your complement Mr. Goldcap! It looks like we’re going to be looking into this, so we get to return to this great market.” Frug puts both hands around his staff. Looking around he smiles, “Glad we could help the good people here.”

Rottimer nods to get the attention of his fellows. He quietly says, "A Dwarf with gold to spare. A case gone missing. A mysterious fog. Kobold gangs in masks. This sounds like something we can really sink our teeth into. Let's hope we're the only ones doing the biting."

Then he checks his bow string, tightens his boot laces and prepares to move when the group is ready.

To learn what gangs, cults or what have you are making the streets of Sharn unsafe... er... or to put fact to any suppositions, Drake and his allies will have to head out of the more civilized areas and into those parts of the town that decent...ish... citizens avoid.


Rian is truthful, but he can tell Drake is looking for any holes in his statements. And he's not eager to commit on the subject of money. "Oh, uh, fee, yes. I said: 'fee.'" He coughs, then turns slightly in Pro's direction, and says more firmly, "Your share of the fee, you ask?"

Pro, who had been examining one of the humanoid constructs, looks up, as if his name has been called. His damaged face is even more inscrutable than that of the typical warforged, so it's not clear if he's expressing surprise, embarrassment, or anything else. He looks back down, and snaps his fingers. Rian glances fully in his direction.

"You'll have to excuse me, but Pro is asking for my assistance. But look, I'm just tossing some work your way. There are no guarantees in this business, you just learn what there is to learn and do what you can with it. And keep your head down."


Rian turns back at that. He's either thinking something over, or appealing to the heavens for patience. "Alright: the first two locations I gave you are probably going to be busts. They were just closest, and they've been lucky for me in the past. But if you want to dive right in, try that last one. It's in that 'fog zone,' or whatever it is. Something tells me that's the source of the problem. Now, I have to get back to this."


Goldcap doesn't have a map, but he's able to give you rough directions. The fog zone is down quite a few floors (not that there is such a thing as a standard "floor" in Sharn) and on the edge of where anyone would normally want to travel. It will take most of a day to reach, but there's no real "night" this close to the bases of the towers. The fog itself apparently wraps around and through several towers. No one's sure how deep it is.

He describes the case and admits that inside the case is a cured green dragon hide from which he plans to make a suit of armor. It's apparent that Devlin d'Deneith is the customer for that armor.

---

Status:
Rian and Pro are busy now with their investigation, and have no further information about the case of the illegal ice merchants.
Teldorthan would like to help further, but he has no further information. If asked for an advance, he gets a bit sour.

However, the party did keep the market from being ruined and anyone from being hurt, so between Goldcap's need for this job to be done and the goodwill of the rest of the market goers, the party can obtain a free potion of healing. Please note who will be carrying this.

You should all have an adventurer's pack and other basic equipment. If you feel the need to buy anything else, hey, you're in a market. Most mundane items are available, as are rituals and ritual components.

I'm not going to play out the journey to the fog zone. The party is lucky and has no encounters of note on the way there.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 46):

Drake nods to Rian and Pro and joins the rest of the party and passes on his conversation and what he found out to them.

It’s clear that their fates lie within the fog zone. ‘Honor awaits us in the fog zone it appears’

Drake purchases 2 x healing potions at one of the stalls in the market, he nods when he’s shown the healing potion that was given as a reward, he looks towards Froodle and says ‘ You are likely to be seeking the most honor, I think the potion should be yours’

He looks around the group and feels excitement and anticipation in the coming days, he checks his equipment and takes a seat resting before the action whilst the others speak to other stall holders. He is ready when the party is.

Honor awaits.

Froodle looks around the market stalls, adventure awaits. He checks over his equipment and decides to purchase a climbers kit and another couple of sunrods to supplement those in his adventurers pack.

He is happy to hold the party healing potion, though acknowledges that it is available for all and such items must be used sparingly, not at the first sign of a mere scratch.

He too sits in readiness, deep in thought (well, as deep as a dragonborn fighter can get)

The party sets off.

It's obvious that the party have departed one of the currently "civilized" sections of the Lower Dura district because the party's surroundings immediately become a little darker. Of course, there's no less natural light here than where the party just were, but there's a change to the artificial light. It's hard to know if people vacate an area because there's less upkeep of the magical torches and lanterns there, or vice versa, but instead of pools, cones and lozenges of light overlapping overlapping themselves wherever one looks, now there are noticeable blots of darkness. To those with the ability to sense magic, there are flickers here and there of magical graffiti, though nothing is clearly visible without close attention.

These areas aren't entirely uncivilized. There are still bridges and staircases and vast amounts of space within the towers, and there are those who live and work here, out of necessity or practicality. Here and there are businesses: less reputable inns and taverns, and sellers who can't afford the rent they'd have to pay in brighter areas, or just don't feel like making the bribes that would be required to keep their unpleasant trades from landing them in jail. The party also start to see another reason for the deeper darkness: large patches of soot and ash where someone made a natural fire to warm themselves or some food, or to keep some creature at bay. Blackened fragments of bones, books, doors and furniture crunch underfoot as the party pass these blemishes.

All in all, though, the party see few active signs of those who live out here, and down here, though there could be any number of them just behind then nearest wall, or across a bridge that isn't in the direction the party is headed. It no doubt pays to stay quiet and out of sight in areas of the city like this.

After several hours, the air, which had been stuffy and warm, begins to become stuffy and cool. Where the party had been able to see several stories down, they can now only clearly see the next lower bridge, or the next nearest tower. They've reached the fog zone.

And Rian's tip pans out almost immediately. Ahead, where two bridges cross, is a round area with a very dirty fountain in the center. Whatever magic or artifice had caused it to flow appears to have run down. Sitting on it and standing near it is a band of goliaths, wearing furs that they might have brought with them from some mountain fastness, and holding picks, hammers and axes. Many of them appear to be injured, and one of them is peering at another's injured leg, while murmuring and shaking a totem.

Two goliaths, the least injured of the band, are loading up a pair of small wagons. One is wrapping a few blocks of ice in furs, the other is stowing climbing gear and other tools. The mood appears glum.

One or two of them notice the party's approach. The largest of the group, a bandage covering one eye, stands and moves forward. "If you are from the Council," he says in a voice like boulders shifting, "go and tell them that we will harvest no more ice. We ask that we be allowed to depart with our last meager load. We have paid for it with much blood and we will use it only for our ceremonies. I, Gruthorn of the Spire Clan, have spoken." He makes no threatening movement, but watches the party carefully with his good eye.

---

I'm assuming the party is moving with relative caution, not drawing a lot of attention to themselves, and looking like they wouldn't be worth bothering.

The names "Gruthorn" and "Spire Clan" mean nothing to anyone in the party. While some of their implements could be used as weapons, they're all consistent with the cutting of ice. Gruthorn is telling the truth.

Their injuries don't look like battle wounds, but like what one would suffer from nasty traps designed to discourage rather than kill.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 49):

Drake nods at Gruthorn in a congenial manner.
He takes a relaxed stance, feeling no need at this point to ready himself for combat.

‘It is good to meet you, I am Drake, we have not been sent by the council, we have other errands to perform. But should we be asked we will pass on the information on your behalf. How did you get your injuries? It appears you have conducted yourselves with honor. Is there something further down we need to be aware of?”

Drake looks at the rest of party, hoping they will take the same tac in speaking to the injured Goliath party. Drake feels more comfortable in these less than desirable surroundings, at home, at ease. He has confidence in the parties abilities and feels no reason to feel uneasy.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:53, Thu 03 Dec 2020.

Gruthorn seems surprised at the polite speech. He glances at another nearby goliath, who shrugs, also puzzled.

He turns back to you and nods. "Well. My people were injured during our last ice hunt. Someone set cowardly snares in our path. We are hardy folk, but these traps were devised to pierce, poison and confound us. Clearly we have transgressed yet another of the strange rules of this place." He looks up with a frown of disdain meant for the entirety of Sharn.

"You do not appear to be girded for ice hunting, so you need not fear the same dangers we encountered. Yet, have a care. This ice and cold, though it was an answer to our hopes, must have a source. In our homeland, the coldest, iciest peaks are the homes of devils or great wryms who thrive where no warmth can be found."

The two by the wagon rumble a few syllables in the Giant tongue. Gruthorn nods at them and the others appear to be getting ready to leave. Gruthorn stays engaged with the party, his good eye shifting between his people and the newcomers.[hr]
Status:
On a crossroads of bridges, near a damaged fountain.
Gruthorn near party.
Other goliaths preparing to move out.

In reply to DM Paul (msg # 51):

Rottimer approaches Drake and says "He seems to be telling the truth. This doesn't appear like any black market ice running ring I've seen before. And it seems they're in communication with the council already. I wonder if they've seen any sign of the Kobolds or their warren? Perhaps they were responsible for the traps."

In reply to Rottimer Lind (msg # 52):

With her patients] now starting to move about, the group's shaman comes over to the party. She looks each of the group members up and down with eyes that clearly see more than most - though whether that's due to wisdom, spiritualism or just insanity is difficult to gauge. Then she turns to take in both Drake and Froodle, the only two who rise to her height, and says to them, in Draconic:

---

Spoiler for Draconic: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
"Get a move on! Lazy rats! Boss! Treasure!"

---

Then she cackles, and starts to turn away. Gruthorn stays her, gently but firmly. Perhaps he sees the reaction of those in the party who speak Draconic. "What have you said to them, witch woman?"

She turns and glares at Gruthorn with an expression that takes him aback and loosens his grip. She mumbles some words in heavily-accented Giant. Then she moves off.

Gruthorn turns back to you. "My apologies if she was insulting. She does not speak your language," he says to the dragonborn, "but she says she heard those words, or words like them, carried on the winds of this place, up from the depths, from three..." he frowns, converting units in his head. "Ten of your 'storeys' from right here. I do not know why she felt the need to tell you, or tell you in that way."

---

Anyone can read the text in the spoiler block (and in any spoiler blocks) but I put it there for anyone who doesn't want to see it. Anyone who speaks Draconic should look at it, though, which is at least Drake and Froodle.

Let me know what the party does next. I realize no one person speaks for the party, but I'm hoping you'll back each other up.

Froodle gives a nod to Drake, he appears to have understood the words of the shaman too.

He turns to Rottimer and Frug and translates what he has heard into the common tongue “The shaman spoke words she had heard deep below ground. She spoke of lazy rats, a boss and treasure, it certainly sounds like kobolds to me. Looks like we are on the right track, but they have taken the loot underground.”

Froodle checks over his equipment once more, then looks around and says to his companions, within earshot of the Grothorn and the other goliaths, “We have made friends here, but it is time to move out and follow our own paths”

In reply to Froodle (msg # 54):

Rottimer nods at Froodle in appreciate for the translation. It was as he suspected.

Rottimer then takes special note of the types and severity of the injuries he is able to discern from this distance. In the hopes it will give him some small benefit as they perhaps encounter similar difficulties.

In reply to Froodle (msg # 54):

Drake nods to Gruthorn and says

‘It is time we continue our journey. May Bahamut keep you and guide you.’

He turns to the rest of our party ‘Shall we continue our investigations. I am ready to travel further if you are’

Drake hefts his adventurers pack, and loosens the longsword in its scabbard, as he turns from the Goliaths. He stares into the murk of the fog ready for the onward journey, he feels the weight of his shield lighten at the thought of adventure, and the chance of honor, that awaits below.

In reply to Drake (msg # 56):

“I’m ready to visit under the earth again. I always find it inspiring some idea and it will be nice to earn something that gives me the means to make those ideas come to life. Not like those atrocities in the market mind you, but something kind and helpful.” Frug doesn’t exactly address anyone and doesn’t seem to be paying much attention to the giants. He turns his attention back to his fellow adventures and says, “Oh thanks for sharing the translation, it through my thoughts off.”
Looking in the direction we plan to go, Frug waits for someone else to lead and hops into the middle of the party line. So that he can fall back easily.