~~I wonder what that's all about?~~

Mekkar glanced about, looking for the source of the scream -- in this instance, he wanted to see who was doing the yelling, and if possible, the reason for it.

~~Most likely one of the smash-and-grab lads has made his play, and made someone very unhappy in the process.~~

She had been about to join in the merrymaking when a scream ripped though to crowd.  Melody's first instinct was to see if anyone was pointing at her and her "looks".  But given Alleycat's previous declaration of troublemakers afoot, she quickly switched to looking for that kind of trouble.

Bross' experience said that you don't get 'told' that sort of thing, twice- you had to see what it was, and you had to go now.

So, he simply breaks his conversation with Catrina off, without a word, and heads toward the source of that scream, to see if there's something he can do.

Catrina was surprised of the appearance of an announcer who gives the dwarf she was speaking to a prize,"Ah, so your Hargrin. Well, if you don't mind, I'd like to have a pint myself." she says, but suddenly something else interrupted their conversation. She sighs as she hears a scream and sees Bross running off,"Err, guess I gotta help out. Save that drink for me when I come back Mr. Bitterfood." she says as she chomps a sausage on a stick, finishing it in one bite as she follows Bross with a staff in hand.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:45, Fri 31 Dec 2021.

Sora's comments on getting a drink were short lived as the scream pierced the festive aire. her smile faded as she took a look of seriousness. She looked around for the source

A fiddler that was sitting on the center stage, facing north is the source of the scream. She stands pointing over the town. Before you can even turn to look, a gigantic form whooshes over your heads.

You hear a deafening roar...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79NxCXrO1nU

A blast of lightning erupts from the creature and the giant bon fire expodes sending burning logs flying in all directions. The dragon soars southward after discharging his breath weapon the circles back high over the fairgrouds well out of range of archers and spell casters.

The festival turns into a mass panic with people running in all directions, screaming in terror.

Then you hear the horns.

OOC: all of you failed your save against the dragon's frightful presence. You can not move in the direction of the dragon. All attack rolls and saves are at disadvantage for one minute.

The dragon soars through the air admiring the mayhem beneath him.

Bross doesn't scream. He does stare up in silent shock at the largest living thing he's ever laid eyes upon.

The crush of people fleeing is what keeps him from freezing entirely- he's big and heavy enough to not be knocked over or trampled, but he knows so many aren't.

[OOC: He can't see a way to do anything about the dragon yet, from here, so his next action (after unfreezing from horror) would be to help people get away without hurting eachother in their panic.]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:44, Sun 02 Jan 2022.

The air is filled with smoke. Small fires burn everywhere. Visibility is limited. The sound of horns seems closer. Masked thugs appear near Hargrin's stall. They attack the Chamberlain knocking him unconcious. Two of the thugs start dragging him away while blowing a single sharp note on their whistles. Others converge in the area looking for signs of resistence.

You hear a call through the smoke. "To the Keep! Help them to the keep!".
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:58, Sun 02 Jan 2022.

In reply to Mike (msg # 10):

~~A Dragon!! A real, live, Dragon!!~~

Mekkar gazed upwards at the mighty creature soaring high above him, looking both majestic and fearsome. Well, mostly fearsome at the moment. Definitely mostly fearsome.

Alleycat had heard tavern tales about Dragons, of course. He would be a rich man if he had a golder for every besotted drunkard who offered to tell him the story about the time that he -- the drunk, that is -- had come face to face with a mighty Dragon, and yet lived to tell the tale.

But now that he had seen one with his own eyes, all that the Waterdehavian could do was stand and quake in his boots. ~~Where to flee? Does it really matter? Flying up high as that Dragon is, he can slay all of us on a whim, just by turning his head to one side or the other and loosing his lightning.~~

Alleycat heard someone shouting above all the noise and commotion. Well, truth be told, he could hear lots of shouting and screaming. But whoever this person was, he or she seemed to have kept a clear head, because they were saying something about getting people to the keep. That made sense to Mekkar -- he thought it likely that the keep was the only thing hereabouts that even had a chance to stand against a Dragon's attack.

But something drew Alleycat's gaze to the scene that was playing out over near to the stall that he had marked as belonging to Hargrin. Two masked people were attempting to drag away the well-dressed fellow who had, only a few moments ago, been announcing Hargrin's gold medal in this year's brewing competition. Mekkar didn't know who the unconscious man was, but it seemed likely that he was someone of importance, locally.

~~The Dragon, I can do nothing about. Those two bully-boys are a different matter, however.~~

Mekkar turned and began loping towards Hargrin's stall . . .

---

OOC: This assumes that the Dragon's Frightful Presence will allow AC to move in his intended direction. :)
This message was last edited by the player at 19:41, Sun 02 Jan 2022.

The Chamberlain's two children recognize Ned, they run to him and cling to his legs, begging for protection. Four masked thugs armed with staves now stand amoung the group who had gathered at Hargrin's as the Chamberlain is dragged away, hidden from view by the smoke. The thugs blow their whistles as Ned and Alleycat move to intervene. Three winged kobalds land and draw thier scimitars. The horns are very close.

OOC With the dragon circling overhead, you must time your movements so that you do not approach it, reducing movement to half for the first minute. please make initiative rolls for those who wish to engage the thugs
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:08, Sun 02 Jan 2022.

In reply to Mike (msg # 12):

OOC:

As requested:

15:20, Today: Alleycat rolled 11 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 8.  Initiative vs. Thugs.

Antru stood frozen at the sight of the dragon. His mind clouded with fear. A dragon...what's going on? Dear gods help. Taking several deep breaths he focuses his self to what's around him, though he is still clearly shaken. Thugs? Are they the same ones? Move...MOVE....MOVE! With those though Antru finally is able to draw his scimitar, though his hand isn't as steady as he would like. "I I I think we have some audience members that didn't enjoy the show." His voice carried the note of fear he felt. The small joke seemed to help settle him slightly.


Lets get it on.
12:29, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  initiative.

Catrina stop herself when she met with the problem, it was a dragon. Cat couldn't move at the sight of such a creature, for she was afraid and uncertain tht she can even handle a daunting challenge like this. Her hands tremble at even facing this beast head on, but Cat stops her hand from shaking, refusing to accept that she's afraid. That's when she heard two children begging, Cat turned and saw that they were now surrounded by masked strangers other than herself,"Hmph, so you wish to disrupt everyone's fun, huh. Well, I think it's high time for you strangers to leave, and I'll be the one to personally do it." she says with regaining confidence, and with a twirl of her staff, she enters to a battle stance.

05:56, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Melody was scared stiff until she heard calls to get people get to the keep.  That galvanized her into action.  There was NO WAY she was going after the dragon.  But the thugs and the kobolds were fair game in her mind.

She set her sights on the kobolds and with a slide of her bow across the violin strings, she cast a spell at them; moving to thirty feet away from them if she had to.

OOC:
16:28, Today: Melody rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

She casts Bane at the 3 kobolds; Chr save vs a 13; conc. up to 1 min. Whenever a target that fails this saving throw makes an attack roll or a saving throw before the spell ends, the target must roll a d4 and subtract the number rolled from the attack roll or saving throw.

Sore saw the sight of the dragon and all pretences of her presence left. Gone was the strong demeanor, the cold walls. All that was present was a scared half elf woman. She stood on fear, eyes wide, her hand trembling as she stood there. A dragon? She thought to herself. ….really!

The attack of Hargrin brought her senses back, and the fear left her face, replaced with cold anger. These people were using this to their advantage. She heard Antru at her side, even vaguely heard the musical tones of a violin. She wanted to help, but didn’t know how.

Use the power…the power I’ve gifted you. Show them our wrath!

She heard the voice in her head, giving her focus, and she acted almost on instinct. She stepped forward, looking  at the men. “You leave him ALONE!” As she screamed the last word, her eyes changed from the dark green, to pools of onyx black. The pink crystal on her necklace glowed as she gained a slightly pink aura. The energy flowed from all over to her hand, outstretched, as an eldrich blast of magical energy, purplish pink in color, flew from her hand, striking one of the men taking Hargrin

---

<OOC: Sora rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Iniative.

Action - casts eldrich blast at one of the men in front of Hargrin’s stall

Sora rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Attack - Eldrich blast .
Sora rolled 4 using 1d10.  Damage - eldrich blast.

Bonus action - None>

In reply to Sora (msg # 17):

The smoke clears enough for Sora to briefly see the two thugs dragging the Chamberlain eastward along the edge of the fairgrounds. Her purple blast of energy strikes one of the thugs in the chest. He staggers from the blow but continues with his task. The smoke intervenes again and the two thugs drag the man from view.

Antru was about to push Sora behind in as a means of protection when se let off a blast of energy. With that action it brought Antru's focus fully around. At least while the smoke covered him. As soon as it opened up and showed the dragon he'd freeze up slightly. [Language unknown: Kor resse areovethi is nance stndpr son wit and.] Antru says to Sora. What he said was more of a reflex due to the training he had at home. Not so much from experience. Stepping forward a bit Antru takes a swipe at one of the Kobold's near them.


Batter UP!
16:12, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 13 using 1d20+7.  Scimitar Attack.

And if that hits
16:13, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 8 using 1d6+5.  Scimitar Damage.

The clown in pink armor steps forward and cuts down the first winged kobald foolish enough to threaten him.

OOC 4 thugs, two winged kobalds in your immediate vicinity.

Ned's eyes flash with a hate filled rage as he shouts a challenge. "I KILL YOU NOW!"

The two remaining kobalds attack Ned simultaniously. One of them hits the swineherd and draws blood. Ned roars with rage.

He crushes the skull of the kobald who hit him with a downward swing of his staff. Howling in fury the swineherd whips the opposite end of his staff arround and sends the second kobald flying. It smashes into a smouldering wagon wheel and slumps to the ground unmoving.

The thugs start blowing their whistles with a sense of urgency. Four more make their way toward the group. Three kobalds arrive on foot.

For those still looking up, the dragon flies away.

Melody sees the kobalds fall and directs her spell at the thugs instead. Two of them wince and seem stricken.

There are now eight thugs and three regular kobalds within your view and closing on the resistence. Ned is bleeding from a wound on his left arm.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:02, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

The guards are still calling out "To the Keep!" They are forming a skirmish line trying to protect and direct people to the bridge into town and eventually, the keep.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:51, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

Hargrin roars dwarvish curses. Finally won the contest and these bastards have to ruin his damn day! The dwarf clutches his amulet of Chauntea and dips his fingers into a flask of holy water at his belt, flicking drops in the direction of Ned, Taria, and Alleycat as he asks his Lady's blessing upon they who seek to guard things growing well in their own way from those who would reap their harvest out of season and far too soon.

Then the priest swings into the action, grabbing up his quarterstaff as charges toward the nearest Kobold. "Run for the Keep!" He yells to the townsfolk, fairly well informed of local protocols for attacks. He points the proper direction with his staff before setting up his next attack.


20:42, Today: Hargrin Bitterbrew rolled 11 using 1d20-1.  Initiative.

Action: Bless on Taria, Ned, and Alleycat. You get a d4 to add to any attack or saving throw in the next minute.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:16, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

~~Whew! That's better!~~ Alleycat thought to himself as he glimpsed the Dragon turning and flying away. He felt a sense of relief, as if a shadow had been removed from his heart. It also allowed him to focus on the scene directly in front of him, instead of having to divide his attention between the ground and the sky.

He had seen a flash of colored magicks streak out from the blonde-haired woman who had given her name as Sora, and slam into one of the attackers. He also noted two ruffians who were moving quickly to close with her. ~~That won't do,~~ Mekkar thought to himself. ~~She is a magicker, and does not appear to be armored. Unless she has had a chance to erect a magical ward to protect herself, she will be quite vulnerable.~~

He moved to step between the two ruffians and Sora, drawing his two rapiers as he did so. He stabbed at the nearest man twice -- once with each of his blades.

---

OOC:

Move: Alleycat will move to step between the two attackers and Sora.

Object Interaction: Alleycat will draw his two rapiers as he moves forward.

Attack: 20:48, Today: Alleycat rolled 23 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 18.  Melee Attack vs. Thug. Hit!

20:49, Today: Alleycat rolled 4 using 1d8+3 with rolls of 1.  Damage (Primary Attack).

20:50, Today: Alleycat rolled 4 using 1d6 with rolls of 4.  Sneak Attack Damage (If Applicable).

Bonus Action: 20:48, Today: Alleycat rolled 11 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 6.  Bonus (Off-Hand) Attack vs. Thug.

23:57, Today: Alleycat rolled 3 using 1d4 with rolls of 3.  "Bless" Bonus To Off-Hand Attack.

Total Attack Roll for Off-Hand Attack: 14.

00:08, Today: Alleycat rolled 2 using 1d6.  Damage (Off-Hand Attack): If Applicable.

Comments: The ruffian whom Alleycat attacked will suffer either 4 or 8 points of Damage from his primary Attack, depending upon whether or not the rogue is entitled to Sneak Attack Damage (Mekkar does not have Advantage on his Attack, so there would need to be a foe of the target's within five feet).

After adding the +3 from Hargrin's "Bless" bonus to Alleycat's off-hand Attack, the total for the Attack is raised to 14. Unsure whether that will hit or not. I have rolled Damage for the Off-Hand Attack, in case it is applicable. :)

Alleycat's AC is 16, per the Dual Wielder feat.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:10, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

Catrina charges toward one of the Thugs. She spins her quarterstaff as she runs toward them, and then delivers a downward jab of which the thug easily dodged. But it was a feint, Cat actually planted her staff firmly to the ground and, using it as a pole to grab on, spun around her weapon. This unexpected move, prompted her to deliver a midair kick right on the Thug's face, knocking several of their teeth out,"Heh, want another go, or would you rather want to make a counterattack." she says as she hops out of her spinning, sticking the landing with her staff in hand.


Move: Toward nearest thug
Action: Quarterstaff Attack on thug
10:39, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Att.
Probably missed

Bonus Action: Unarmed Strike
10:39, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 19 using 1d20+5.  Unarmed Strike.
10:41, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 7 using 1d4+3.  Dmg

While watching the dragon, she was awestruck and terrified. Her mind kept running through the dragon's roar. There had been lessons with her Master about the dragons. Some scholars believe that the first Mystra learned of the Weave from the dragons before her ascension to divinity. Others claim that they are Nexus points, conduits to the Weave or expressions. Other scholars believe they were simply some of the first arcane magic users. In any case, their words are expressions of power. She ran the roar through her mind several times, looking for any syllable, sound, or sign of meaning within it. It was entirely possible that it was merely an expression of power, an bestial warning for all around.

Then as chaos was erupting around, she take the time to make magical gestures and a few works of draconic words of power to gird herself with a thin layer of protective force.


10:28, Today: Taria rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.
Cast Mage Armor

[OOC: So, here's where I am- I'm not 100% whether I got that Inspiration point from the group, but I do have two of my own to spend, so, I'm spending one to reroll my WIS roll. (My understanding is 'you get two rolls', but the one I blew counted as the first one)
13:59, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 13 using 1d20.  Advantage Roll?

Now here's my Initiative roll, just in case we need one:
14:01, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.]

Bross' first concern is the people- they need to go to the Keep (and safety), and [as before] he's seen what can happen in a panicky rush- people too small or weak to stay with the group fall or trip, and (since there's a crush people pushing behind them), the others can't stop. So you get tramplings. And on top of that, there's a dragon. (His mind went back to what Father had said about dragons- it amounted to "They're bad news, stay away from them.")

His actions were clear: He bellows (Genuinely bellows) "GREENEST! TO THE KEEP!", and sheepdogs as many people are in front of him along into the guards' skirmish/help line (being sure to lift up anyone knocked down in the rush as he goes- first priority to help the weakest).

Once he reaches the line, he plans to turn and draw his Greataxe, holding to take on any hostiles following him (essentially 'taking point' on the skirmishing line)


14:20, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 17 using 1d12+5. Axe Swing dmg (Just in case)

14:20, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 10 using 1d20+5.  Axe attack roll (just in case).
This message was last edited by the player at 21:37, Mon 03 Jan 2022.

The smoke is getting thicker as logs from the bonfire that were burning when they hit the ground are starting to smoulder.

As Hargrin casts his spell he notices the Chamberlain's children moving away from Ned. Being close could get dangerous. They are looking for a place to hide.

Alleycat rushes to Sora's defense and cuts down one of the thugs bearing down on her. He and Antru are now within five feet of each other and are facing three masked thugs. One looks slightly stricken from Melody's spell. Sora is protected now, from melee.

Two more unhindered thugs are approaching Ned whose eyes still flare with rage. His staff is held in front of him.

Taria casts mage armor. Though no thugs seem to be closing on her, you all hear one of the  kobalds  She remains in the open with the stall as the nearest cover.

Catrina bursts onto the seen in time to prevet two thugs from reaching Melody. Her kick staggers one of them, but he still stands. The other, stricken by Melody's spell presses on and will reach her on his next turn.

Three young couples emerge from the smoke near Bross. They follow his direction to the skirmish line. The ambush drake that was on their heels misses Bross barely as it tries to bite him. Bross' counter with the axe barely misses. His bravery has saved the young couples... for now.

OOC: Now Sora annd Antru may post before they attack again.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:31, Tue 04 Jan 2022.

"Ranged attacks incoming on casters! Drakes incoming." Antru calls out as he hears the Kobold call orders. Antru tries to recall if he knows of anything that might match the Kobolds call for Drakes, though fighting made it harder to think. He slashes his scimitar at the thug that was hit by the spell.




18:55, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Scimitar Attack.

18:55, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 9 using 1d6+5.  Scimitar Damage.

18:56, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 3 using 1d6.  sneak attack damage.

Total Damage: 12


Nature check to see if I know what the Kobold meant by "Drake"
19:00, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 11 using 1d20+3.  Nature Check.

"...the Hells is this thing?" Bross curses lowly, before yelling "BAD DOG!"

21:57, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 10 using 1d12+5.  Damage (Great Weapon).
21:56, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Attack Roll .

  (It didn't seem like a "scare it off" sort of thing, but it was worth a try.)

He bellows again, "AWAY T'ME, GREENEST!" (figuring that any remaining farmfolk would recognize the shepherd's call, and not give the whole game away), and hopes he's not blocking the skirmishing line entirely.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:21, Wed 05 Jan 2022.

Sora, her eyes again her deep green, looked at Antru almost like she didn't hear what he said, but nodded none the less. She again held put her hand, this time the fingers streched almost like a claw "You have no idea what I'm CAPABLE OF!". As she screamed the last word, her eyes again went dark as their was a crackling sound as light purple lightning erupted from her hand, striking the man.

---

<OOC: Action - Casts Witchbolt

Sora rolled 15 using 1d20+5.  attack - Witchbolt.
Sora rolled 7 using 1d12.  damage - Witchbolt.

Bonus Action - None>

The smoke thickens. The horns and whistles are sounding all around you now. The guards continue their call.

Antru makes short work of the spell stricken thug in front of him. Two remain against him and Alleycat. Sora's purple lightning streaks out from her outstretched hand engulfing one of them in electric torment. Somehow, he manages to stay on his feet. The thug in front of Alleycat swings his staff and misses the crown of the rogue's head. The electified thug in front of Antru disengages and runs from the battle blowing his whistle in earnest.

The ambush drake circles Bross hissing in fury. It lunges at him barley missing his leg. Bross retaliates with a mighty swing that cuts deeply into the scaled creature's shoulder. It circles still, it's eyes filled with hate.

The thug kicked by Catrina swings wildly at his acrobatic target missing his mark and cursing his luck. Melody watches as one of the recipients of her spell closes with her. The effects of the spell protect her as his swing whooshes past her face.

Two thugs rush Ned in tandem swinging from different angles. One hits his jaw. The mighty swineherd laughs at them, eyes ablaze with fury. He barely notices the solid hit.

The kobalds take their time, waiting for the best shots. Sora's display of power earns her the attention of their best marksman. He shoots his crossbow and the bolt sinks deep into her right shoulder, barely missing her lung. Tiara fares better, even though she is in the open, the bolt that would have hit her is deflected by the magic of her spell. The bolt fired by the third kobald sinks harmlessly into Hargrin's shield.

Three Kobalds appear from the smoke in reponse to the whistles. The gaurds nearest Bross shout out, "Good work! Fall back to the keep. Protect who you can on the way."

A dozen unarmed townsfolk emerge from the smoke looking for direction, two drakes nipping at their heels.

OOC: Sora and Ned have each taken 6 points of damage. Everyone except Bross, Antru and Sora may now take their turn.

Catrina chuckles as her opponent misses his strike,"Heh, it's not your day my friend. For you stand before a GreySky, but I shall show mercy to you." she says, and with a thrust with her staff, the thug felt the impact on his stomach and was sent flying straight to a wall. She smirks at her work, then looks toward the townfolk being chased by an overgrown lizards,"Hey, don't worry, I'll protect you all with everything I got." she says as she makes a charging tackle towards one of the drakes, but it saw her coming and dodge that attack. It doesn't deter her as she faced the beast.

Action: Quarterstaff on Thug
10:11, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 17 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Att.
10:12, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 8 using 1d8+3.  Dmg

Move: If Thugs down, Cat will head toward those drakes attacking citizens

Bonus Action: Unarmed Attack
10:16, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Punch Att.

Probably Missed


This message was last edited by the player at 02:33, Wed 05 Jan 2022.

There were three ruffians facing Antru and Alleycat -- and then, only seconds later, there was but one. Antru's slashing blade cut one down, and Sora's purplish-colored magicks quickly convinced the second that he had better places to be.

That left only a single man facing the Waterdehavian. Mekkar did not waste time taunting his foe -- to his way of thinking, talking in such situations was a waste of time. In the time it took to taunt a man he could be lying dead at your feet, in his own pool of blood.

And so it was that Alleycat first feinted at his foe's head, then plunged the long, thin blade of his right-hand rapier deeply into the man's midsection. The ruffian groaned in pain and collapsed.

All of the noise and smoke made it difficult for Mekkar to judge what he should do next, now that all of the foes within easy reach were dead or dying.

"Hoi, Hargrin!" he called out.

"Did you see where they took His Nibs?"

Mekkar reasoned that if anyone had seen where the important-looking fellow had been dragged to, it would likely be Hargrin. If the Dwarf knew where the prisoner had been taken, it made sense to try and free him if he was still close by. For if he was important enough for the attackers to go the trouble to capture him alive, why, then, it stood to reason that anyone who rescued the man would be looked upon with favor by the local powers that be.

Edit: While he was waiting to hear from Hargrin, Alleycat decided that he needed to move up and get in the faces of the Kobold archers that had been peppering the magickers with arrows. He covered the ground quickly and stabbed at one of the little creatures, thinking that he would at least get its attention.

---

OOC:

Action: 21:29, Today: Alleycat rolled 14 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 9.  Primary Melee Attack v. Ruffian. Probable Hit.

21:30, Today: Alleycat rolled 9 using 1d8+3 with rolls of 6.  Damage (Primary Attack: Rapier).

21:33, Today: Alleycat rolled 3 using 1d6 with rolls of 3.  Sneak Attack Damage.

Total Damage (Primary Attack): 12.

Free Action: Call out (to Hargrin).

Edit: Move: Alleycat will move forward to close with one of the Kobold archers.

Bonus Action: 21:32, Today: Alleycat rolled 9 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 4.  Off-Hand Melee Attack.

Edit: 18:50, Today: Alleycat rolled 3 using 1d4.  "Bless" Bonus To Off-Hand Attack.

Edit: Total Attack Roll (Off-Hand Attack): 12

Edit: 18:51, Today: Alleycat rolled 2 using 1d8.  Damage: Off-Hand (If Applicable).

This message was last edited by the player at 00:40, Thu 06 Jan 2022.

"No idea!" Hargrin hollered back, scowling at the kobolds. "Blasted smoke hid 'em!" Truth be told, he was less worried about the Chamberlain than themselves at the moment: if they'd taken the man somewhere, they probably wanted him alive, and thus he could be rescued later. The rest of them -and their vulnerable ones- had no such guarantees. Even if they were trying to avoid injuring noncombatants, shit happened in a battle.

"Elf!" He yelled to Sora, "Can you take the kids and fall back?" He waved at the Chamberlain's children still near his stall, hoping the woman would have sense enough to go. Ned would be hard enough to pry away, caught in the battle fever as he seemed to be. He'd take the kids himself if need be, but perhaps the request would give her another reason to go.

The dwarf scowled at the new arrivals, paying the kobold who'd tried to shoot him no more attention than a bull would an annoying gnat, at pointed at one of the new drakes. A roll of thunder echoed through the sky in response to his accompanying shout of [Language unknown: "Rattioect olone usmale io iou entvorvir mohowe, heringwas!"]


Action: Cast Toll the Dead on the drake Catrina is not engaged with. WIS save DC 15 for the target. Damage is 4 on a fail.

11:57, Today: Hargrin Bitterbrew rolled 4 using 1d8 ((4)).

Movement: Move toward the road to the Keep- with the kids, if they don't go with Sora.

Melody does her best to help shepherd the fleeing people towards the keep; gesturing for them to keep running while she protects the rear.  She aims her ire for the thug rushing towards her.  Shouting, she hurls her insults at him as she draws her rapier.

"Even if you hit,
I won't feel a bit of it,
You are weak and small."

OOC: Melody casts Vicious Mockery at the thug Wis save vs 13

quote:

Vicious Mockery [60' range; Wis Save]
   You unleash a string of insults laced with subtle enchantments at a creature you
   can see within range. If the target can hear you (though it need not understand
   you), it must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or take 1d4 psychic damage and have
   disadvantage on the next attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.

edit: Melody gives Antru Bardic Inspiration (1d6)

This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Thu 06 Jan 2022.

Once she is girded in a protective barrier, Taria switches tactics. Focusing on the ones that seek to harm her. She makes a series of gestures and speaks a simple word of power causing a bold of flame to erupt from her hand and soar towards the nearest of the Kobolds.


Cast Firebolt
11:53, Today: Taria rolled 12,2 using 1d20+5,1d4.
14 to Hit Kobold

11:54, Today: Taria rolled 3 using 1d10. Fire Damage

Willing to use a Reaction to cast shield if a Hit would Miss if she does.

The furious swineherd ignores his wounds though there is a sizeable welt forming on his jaw. He thrusts his staff at the thug on his left and shatters his face. THe man falls unmoving to the ground. He swings the opposite end and strikes the second thug catching the man in the chest. Ribs audibly crack, the man winces in pain, but remains on his feet.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:33, Fri 07 Jan 2022.

The guards, to the west of the party, remain in the skirmish line, but are getting increased pressure from kobalds and drakes. They continue their call to make a fighting withdrawal while helping citizens to reach the keep. They are slowly withdrawing westward. You remain about 300 feet east of the road into town.



OOC

Bross is closest to the guards in the skirmish line and is battling an ambush drake.

Melody is a about fifteen feet east of Bross with a thug stricken by bane and vicious mockery spells baring down on her.

Catrina is fifteenfeet south of Melody and has just missed with her first attack on an ambush drake.

Sora is ten feet east of Melody, there are no thugs near her. She has made herself the favorite target of the three kobalds about twenty feet south of her. SHe has a crossbow bolt deep in her shoulder and is bleeding from the wound.

Antru stands five feet south of Sora. THere are no thugs in melee with him.

Alleycat is ten feet south of Antru facing three kobalds armed with crossbows. An ambush drake is peeling off from chasing the fleeing farmers and is heading in his direction.

Hargrin is ten feet east of Sora, he is not in melee but is watching over two small children.

Ned is ten feet south of Hargrin in melee with a thug.

Taria is five feet east of Hargrin and is not in melee

Three kobalds with crosbows are flanking Taria to the east about thirty feet from her.

Crude map

Guard  Bross   Melody Sora  Hargrin Taria      3Kobalds
       drake          Antru       Ned
                Catrina
               drake      AC drake
                          3 kobalds

[OOC: I'm assuming the ambush drake either won't or can't retreat. If it does, I'd like to revise, later if possible.]

Grimly realizing this is one of those jobs you just have to finish, Bross clenches his jaw and takes another huge overhead swing of his axe at... whatever this thing is.

21:44, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 12 using 1d20+5 ((7)).
21:45, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 10 using 1d12+5.  Damage (just in case).

"Master Bitterbrew, Lady Sora! It would be prudent for you to fall back. Aim what spells you can at the kobolds. We'll hold the line and follow suit." Antru says as he he throws one of his daggers at the Kobolds closest to  Allycat. He then steps closer to the man and puts his scimitar to use. "Once the others start to fall back we should proceed to do the same. This area isn't the most defensible." Antru comments to Allycat as he comes up beside him.



Bonus Action: Throw Dagger

19:33, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Dagger Throw.

19:34, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 8 3 using 1d4+5.  Dagger Damage.

Forgot that offhand attack wouldn't get ability mod on damage.

Action: Scimitar Attack to Drake:

19:36, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 23 using 1d20+7.  Scimitar Attack.

08:06, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 11 using 1d6+5.  Scimitar Damage.


Sneak Attack if it applies to the dagger throw or scimitar attack. Which ever makes more sense if both could benefit.

08:08, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 3 using 1d6.  sneak attack damage.

Sora winced as the Crossbow bolt hit her shoulder, breaking her concentration for but a moment - but that was all it needed to end her spell. With a hand up to the bolt, bleeding profusely, she looked at the kobolds with seething anger unlike she hadn't had in a long time. The words and pleas from others were like flies...unseen and unheard in her anger.

Then her mind cleared and she heard the others. She wanted to stay, but the bolt weakened her, so she nodded, and reluctantly went about getting others to saftey.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:33, Sat 08 Jan 2022.

The smoke is thick, the party can only see things within fifty or sixty feet. Some stalls along the northern edge of the fairgrounds are burning. The stalls, burning or not, could help provide cover from the kobalds with crossbows. Frantic unarmed people from the festival pass through the smoke and see you fighting. Most follow your direction to move toward the keep. The guards are shifting westward as the drakes and kobalds start concentrating on driving them back. Winged kobalds can be seen flying over the melee northward toward the town.

Bross is battling with the five foot long drake. The beast moves quickly and with great agility. His swing misses its target. The drake attempts to counter attack, but the gutsy farmer slips away.

Antru moves southward to assist Alleycat who has been attacked by another drake. His thrown dagger is repelled by the creature's scaley hide, but, his scimitar cuts deep. The beast hisses in protest and lashes out. It is easily avoided by the agile clown.

Sora reduces an urgency to remain agressive and moves to help Hargrin usher the Chamberlain's children west toward the road to town.

The thug facing Ned attacks again with his staff glancing off the swineherd's knee. Ned does not notice.

The three kobalds behind the drake and the two rogues fire a volley at Sora, Hargrin and Taria. All of them miss.

The stricken thug facing Melody manages a feeble swing with his staff which the dancing tiefling deftly avoids.

To the east of Taria three more kobalds take aim at the casters. One finds his mark. Taria's thigh is grazed by a bolt.

The kobalds call for help. A drake and three more kobalds appear through the smoke 20 feet east of Taria.

In all of this a halfling slips through the smoke from cover to cover wondering if he should try to make it to the keep or find a good place to hide...
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:37, Sat 08 Jan 2022.

Melody gave a feral grin to the thug she was dancing with before sending another cutting insult his way.  She wanted him out of the way so she could help take down more of these attackers, but at a safer distance.

"You look like something
That crawled dripping with disease
Out of your mom's butt."

She looks over at the guy to her right and says, "Have some musical loving, lover boy!"

OOC: OOC: Melody casts Vicious Mockery at the thug Wis save vs 13.

She also gives a Bardic Inspiration die (d6) to Bross.

Faim had come to Greenest knowing it to be a bit of a frontier town and figuring the festival a good opportunity to find recruits. He was going to find a party and go on a real live adventure, a dream which lived and breathed in his imagination for years. So he set up a booth (a mule cart with a sign) and chatted amiably with passersby. He started drawing small crowds by reciting tales of derring do.

Then the scream. And the smoke. And the dragon! Here went looking for adventure, or rather was getting ready to look for adventure when one popped up all around him. He froze. He wasn’t afraid. He was just… overwhelmed. It was nothing like what he had read about. It was chaos. He knew that if he were presented with the situation written in words on a paper, he would be able to tell you what the heroes should do. But he wasn’t in his father’s study. He was surrounded by screams and smoke and violence.

But he recovered. He want sure how long he spent frozen. A minute? Seconds? It didn’t matter. Something switched in Faim’s brain. He skulked now to the sound of battle. A party had formed, it was beautiful. More and more enemies were appearing out of the smoke. Everything was so obscured.

Faim grabbed a small bugle hanging from his waist and brought it to his pursed lips and gave a burst of rapid toots. Amongst the kobolds and drakes a burst of pastel light blossomed to illuminate the dragonic raiders.

Action: Cast faerie fire in a location that catches as many of the baddies without hitting the heroes, trying to make sure and get the drake(s).
Dex Save DC 13

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
Range: 60 feet  Components: V  Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute  Each object in a 20-foot cube within range is outlined in blue, green, or violet light (your choice). Any creature in the area when the spell is cast is also outlined in light if it fails a Dexterity saving throw. For the duration, objects and affected creatures shed dim light in a 10-foot radius.  Any attack roll against an affected creature or object has advantage if the attacker can see it, and the affected creature or object can’t benefit from being invisible.

---

Faim quietly lectures to himself, “You are concentrating on a spell now, stay back and stick to ranged attacks.” Then he draws out his crossbow and loads it.

To the others he calls out, “Dwindle their numbers, even if it means doubling up on enemies! Or focus on little guys if you quickly take them out of the fight by yourself!”

Bonus action: Bardic Inspiration to Alleycat (or someone else if you already have it)
This message was last edited by the player at 06:09, Sat 08 Jan 2022.

~~I suppose that big Lizard must be a Drake,~~ Alleycat thought to himself. ~~At least I think that's what Antru called it. Looks very damned mean. Hope we can kill it. Or at least convince it to leave us alone.~~

Antru had already wounded the nearest Drake with his blade, and Mekkar quickly followed up with a heavy-handed rapier thrust that, based upon the beast's reaction, seemed to have hit a vital spot.

OOC: (Assuming the the Drake falls to Alleycat's first Attack): Seeing the Drake's death-throes, the Waterdehavian turned his off-hand Attack against the Kobold that he had previously wounded.

Having heard Antru's advice, Alleycat nodded and replied, "Aye, there are just too many foes. We should make a fighting retreat, falling back towards the keep as soon as possible."

He grinned at the Elf. "Mayhap by then we will have slain enough of them that they will think twice before pressing us too closely."

---

OOC:

Action: 17:40, Today: Alleycat rolled 25 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 20.  Primary Melee Attack v. Drake. Critical Hit!

17:42, Today: Alleycat rolled 17 using 2d8+3 with rolls of 8,6.  Damage (Critical Hit, Rapier)

Bonus Action: 17:44, Today: Alleycat rolled 13 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 8.  Off-Hand Melee Attack .

18:08, Today: Alleycat rolled 4 using 1d4.  Bless Boost.

Total Attack Roll for Off-Hand Attack: 17.

17:45, Today: Alleycat rolled 4 using 1d8 with rolls of 4.  Damage (Off-Hand Attack, Rapier).

17:46, Today: Alleycat rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  Sneak Attack Damage

Total Damage Dealt to Kobold This Round: 5.

Free Action: Speak.

Comments: I have written this post assuming that the combined Damage dealt by Antru and Alleycat will be sufficient to kill the Drake that they have attacked. If so, Alleycat will direct his off-hand attack against a nearby Kobold. If one of the Kobolds was previously wounded by him for 2 points of Damage (see Msg. #33, above), he will try to finish off the wounded Kobold.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:37, Mon 10 Jan 2022.

Catrina shakes her head at once again missing another tackle, so she goes for an aggressive attack. She twirls her staff in front of the drakes, hitting it's various joints while spinning her staff. She then ends it with a palm strike at it's head, threatening to shatter it's skull by her mere touch.


Action: Quarterstaff Att
08:01, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  Quarterstaff Att.
08:02, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 10 using 1d8+3.  Dmg

Bonus Action: Unarmed Attack
08:03, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  Punch .
08:04, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 7 using 1d4+3.  Dmg

17 dmg should be enough to kill it.

Gritting her teeth, Taria remembers the last time she unleashed this level of flame here and she spent the next four months helping her father rebuild houses, wells, barns, and so much more. She did not want a repeat performance. The Master would not approve an absence that long.

She takes a step or two to get a good angle. In her minds eye, she envisions a controlled fan no more than an inch thick encompassing each of the three Kobolds and no debris or structures. Her fingers trance an intricate pattern meant to constrain the evocation to the pattern imagined. With a single arcane word of power, a surge of flame erupts brilliantly lighting up the vicinity.


Cast Burning Hands to try and catch all three Kobolds with minimal collateral damage.

20:55, Today: Taria rolled 11 using 3d6.  Burning Hands. Dex Save DC 13 for half.

HP: 6/8    AC 15 (Willing to cast shield if AC 19 would deflect an attack)
This message was last edited by the player at 03:01, Tue 11 Jan 2022.

Sora, retreating with the children pauses long enough to look back. At this distance, most of her magic had little use.


....most

She ushered the children past her, feeling the anger of herself welling up, and felt the approval of her mistress. Her eyes again turned black, this time with small tendrils of black tracing her skin around her eyes like inky veins. Her necklace glowed pink, helping her aura turn pink. then the light coalesced into her outstretched hand.

All her anger was channeled into the magic as it flew from her hand towards the drake.

....it hit it with a solid blast of magical energy

---

<OOC: Action - Cast Eldrich blast at the drake D1 (Facing Bross)

Sora rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Attack - eldrich blast <*CRITICAL*>
Sora rolled 13 using 2d10.  damage - eldrich blast.>
This message was last edited by the player at 01:27, Mon 10 Jan 2022.

Hargrin continued to move with Sora and the children toward safety, turning back briefly to gesture at the right-most kobold shooting at Taria and shout again.

Action: Cast Toll the Dead on the one of the flanking kobolds. WIS save DC 15 for the target. Damage is 6 on a fail.


22:30, Today: Hargrin Bitterbrew rolled 6 using 1d8.  Damage.

Move: Toward the retreat.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Mon 10 Jan 2022.

Through the smoke, the party can see the guards beginning an orderly fighting withdrawal toward the road and the keep. THe stalls along the northern edge of the fairgrounds still provide cover to those seeking protection from random bolts being fired by kobalds with crossbows. The adventurers do their part to hold the eastern flank, allowing dozens of unarmed townsfolk and farmers to reach the organized effort to escape the battle.

Alleycat pierces the vitals of the drake trying to tear him to ribbons. The strike from his off hand impales a nearby kobald before it can fire another bolt. Leaving one very nervous kobald hastily reloading his crossbow with the two deadly rogues in position to gut him next.

Catrina whirls about in a deadly dance staggering the drake in front of her with her blazing speed and accuracy, however, the drakes are tough and this one still stands.

Taria steps eastward closing on a drake and three kobalds. They all glow with a strange light, her hands extending outward releasing arcane fire. The kobalds scream, engulfed in flame. they run in random directions until they slump to the ground and add to the thickness of the smoke. The drake hisses in pain and rage as it emerges from the fire with hungry eyes only for her.

Sora helps to usher the Chamberlain's children toward the guards, at the limits of her vision in the smoke she turns and a blast of purple energy erupts from her oustretched hand and shoots straight into the ribs of the drake attacking Bross. The creature's scaley flesh sizzles as it slumps to the ground at Bross' feet.

Hargrin's call for Chauntea's aid tolls on the last kobald still standing. It coughs out its life force and falls to the ground. Dead.

Ned efficiently thrusts the blunt end of his staff through the eye socket of the thug attacking him. He rushes westward before that thug hits the ground and smashes the thug chasing melody along the side of his head. This thug is also finished.

Three loud blasts on a horn are heard from within the smoke. No new enemies emerge from the concealment of the smoke. Their approach can be heard at the limits of the adventurers' vision.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:40, Tue 11 Jan 2022.

Sora saw that Taria was in dire straits with the drake facing her. Her instincts called out for action and again she felt the power well up and the crystal flared with pink light. Her eyes again became pools of black, the tracing of black veins becoming more prominent as the energy again erupted from her hand, striking the drake a slight glancing blow.

As it hit, she called out. "Get out of there!"

---

<OOC: Action - Cast Eldrich Blast at drake 4 (Facing Taria)

Sora rolled 22 using 1d20+5.  Attack - eldrich blast.
Sora rolled 4 using 1d10.  Damage - eldrich blast.>

 

Bross looked down at the smoking remains of the thing that attacked him- but his attention was instantly caught by the obviously-local girl fighting off another one of those things.

Bross runs toward Taria, realizes he'll never make it in time before it got to her (it's about 40 ft) and, deciding it's time to Try The Unlikely, throws his dagger at the thing.

23:07, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 22 using 1d20+5 ((17)). Probable hit
23:09, Today: Bross Tallcut rolled 6 using 1d4+5 ((1)).

...it wasn't much, but it was something.

And (hoping to at least attract the thing's attention) he simply shouts wordlessly at it.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Tue 11 Jan 2022.

'Fall back!" Antru tells allycat as he sprints off in Taria's direction. Reaching the drake that's after her, he swings his scimitar at the creatures neck."Fall back! He calls to Taria as he engages the drake. He then switches his focus and calls out very loudly. [Language unknown: Saoumo onshassanresrom u oerha lean! Ilnomele ss!]


20:13, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 21 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only.  Scimitar Attack (with advantage).

20:13, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 6 using 1d6+5.  Scimitar Damage.

Almost forgot this

20:18, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 2 using 1d6.  sneak attack damage.

total damage: 8

To sound like one of the Kobolds

20:17, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 16 using 1d20+1.  Performance.

To hopefully get some of the attackers to believe him

20:17, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 9 using 1d20-1.  deception.

To the east, the drake converging on Taria is cut down by a great tem effort. The injured young wizard is safe for the moment. One drake remains as the only antagonist within your vision. It hears the blasting horn, turns north and bolts for the concealment of the smoke.


Your hear derisive laughter from just outside your vision. Then a hissing response, [Language unknown: "Nging ticrutterent ent lar enc." ]

The path to the keep seems clear enough to move westward with the guards and the revellers who made it to them. The toppled carts along the northern limits of the fairgrounds remain and provide partial cover for those moving on the north side of the carts. There are two injured guards lagging behind. Left to their own, they  will not make it to the keep.

[Assuming we're out of combat time for now?]

Bross quickly puts a boot to the (extremely dead) remains of the creature, to make it easier to pull the dagger free. With the same motion (almost like a courtly bow) he extends his other hand toward Taria to pull her to her feet, saying "Ma'am?" [If she wants, otherwise, it's just a hand].

He's muttering something.

Looking over his shoulder to face Sora, he says "What was that, I've never seen anything li-" before seeing the bolt stuck into her shoulder. His jaw drops, a bit- partly that she's still functioning with the injury.

Changing plans immediately, he calls out "GREYSKY! D'd'you see where your robed friend got to?"

Listening for her answer, Bross begins his next plan. He notices the two guards staggering back toward the keep, and heads toward them while still engaging the others.

"Come on- there's bound to be someone who could look at that, and these two need help."

[At minimum, Bross is trying to escort the two guards back to the line, while encouraging Sora to join them. ]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:48, Tue 11 Jan 2022.

As the last drake scampers for the smoke, the fury leaves Ned's countenance. He smiles shyly at Melody after crushing the thugs skull. "Umm are you, you, hurt Melody Pussycat?"

"Oh no you don't!" Catrina says as she backflips toward the drakes and with a thrust of her staff, she stopped the beast's heart in one blow. As the beast writhes and dies, she looks toward Bross,"Hmm, white robed? Oh yeah, that guy, I'm sure his probably hiding somewhere in that keep. If we carry any injured around, we might just be able to make it." the masked woman says as she approach the injured guards,"Hey, want me to carry one of you back to the keep. You can hop on my back if you want."

Reaction: Attack of Opportunity
08:15, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 20 using 1d20+5.  AOO Quarterstaff Attack.
08:16, Today: Catrina GreySky rolled 9 using 1d8+3.  Dmg

Alleycat found himself impressed by how well the hodge-podge collection of people who had never met one another (at least insofar as he knew) -- and who almost certainly had never fought together before -- had joined forces to give the attackers a bloody nose.

It had not escaped the Waterdehavian's notice that pretty much every third person or so was now urging him (and others, he supposed) to fall back to the keep. He glanced about and saw no live foes in his immediate vicinity. He could hear that some were near by, however, hidden from his sight by the swirling smoke.

He moved towards the keep until he joined the two guards who had seemingly been abandoned by their fellows. The big fellow who had been wielding his axe to great effect was there ahead of him, as was an impressively-muscled female Half-Orc.

Mekkar turned and faced back towards the unseen foes, the points of his twin rapiers facing down towards the ground. "If you can help these two into the keep," he told the big Human and the Half-Orc, "I'll serve as rear-guard."

---

OOC: In gaming terms, Alleycat will ready two melee Attacks, to be used in the event that any attackers attempt to press the withdrawing refugees and adventurers too closely.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:46, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Sora, breathing heavily, her eyes now normal again, clutched her shoulder with a wince. Though a shoulder wound, she felt it weakening her. She was glad the enemy seemed to be retreating, and at the words from the fog, she heard the phrase. She answered in the same language.

When Bross came up, she managed a weak smile. "Yes...it hurts." She muttered, ignoring the question he asked. When he invited her back to teh keep, she began walking slowly, the pain obvious on her face. "...oh, and they ruined my dress. Blood all over it. I see them again and i'll give them a piece of my mind." Despite the threat, her weakness made it sound almost like a joke.

Tallcut nods and (having slung his axe and rescabbarded his dagger), assuming the arms-out Giving Tree position for anyone needing to lean or be carried back to the keep (including the guards), turns his back to Catrina.

He hears what the man in the buffcoat said about taking rear-guard, and simply nods and gives "Thanks."



Bross looks at her with great sincerity, and answers " I'm sorry. You bear it well, though. Let's get you help."



"I'm good." (might be joking. Might not.)



"'Bit of salt an' cold water, it'll come out right.', 'Waste not and you'll want not' my mo-" he said, encouragingly before catching himself. "You were kidding." he finished, sheepishly. (Though he did still wonder if maybe one of the ruined stalls sold dresses...)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:23, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Having finished the drake, Antru turns to make his way back with the others. He keeps scanning the area all around him ready to pick up the fight. Like Allycat he acts as a rear guard for those helping the injured. However he can't help but to make a reply to whomever replied to him. As loudly as he can he starts to sing in Draconic.

[Language unknown:

Urepa ardin, Prul set
Omstte diard oveconsti ha noha llrom sa tacon
Undousday som i fi undthaenc
Yinanyate ticconwit sinc p pa waon

Shene eaupr, Of unss
Ntheit ove rierch t seng re eiai ntesa
Ndaswh nce bleestour hiliul
Lass e lalanc set
Of isnt lo erllie ckarll nifo ive t asilev!

Ous o uthe! Ss T oueiit antatired ssul ek ionoveome eiei!]

Antru laughs loudly as he finishes and looks rather proud of his self.


Perception, though it looks lacking as Antru seems to be distracted with his own whit.

20:57, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  perception.

And for the record Antru is singing as badly as he can.

Sora raised her eyes at the man. "You think me kidding? I love this dress. Before today it was simple road dirt, now it has blood and a hole." She winced as she spoke, but hearing Antru sing, she smiled.

"For one of elvish blood cousin, you sing very badly."

Taria limps a bit as she joins the others. "I am not sure that taunting them in their native tongue is really where we want to be. I know theirs is a bastardization of the true primordial draconic, but taunts are their own degradation."

Sora looked at Taria, a little pale but serious. "They shot me in the shoulder, ruined my favourite dress and made me bleed. Taunting them was the least I could do."

As Antru laughs at his own joke, ten kobalds emerge from the south at the limits of your vision. They each take a quick shot in the group's direction then slip back out of view. Ned is struck twice. He gulps in pain and drops to the ground dying. Antru is is also hit, in the gut.

Catrina shrugs at Bross remarks, when kobolds started firing at them, the masked wrestler waste no time. She immediately hoist up one of the injured guards over her shoulder,"Let's keep a move one people, we need to bring these injured to the keep as fast as possible." she shouts to the others.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:33, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Alleycat scowled as he heard the two arrows strike Ned with a meaty "Thunk-Thunk!", and saw the young local fall to his knees and begin choking out his life's-blood. The Waterdehavian knew a bit about killing people with arrows, and this did not look good. From the looks of the fellow, Ned would probably be dead before they could get him to the keep, unless . . .

Acting quickly, he sheathed his two rapiers and moved to Ned's side, keeping the Young from falling flat on his face. "This man is dying!" he called out in a loud voice.

"Does anyone have any healing -- potions, magicks, or herbs?"

For his part, Mekkar did what he could to staunch Ned's bleeding . . .

---

OOC: 11:27, Today: Alleycat rolled 18 using 1d20+2 with rolls of 16.  Medicine Check: Helping Ned.

Edit: 13:10, Today: Alleycat rolled 1 using 1d6.  Bardic Inspiration Boost.

Edit: Total for Medicine Check: 19.

Comments: Hmmm . . . that may have been a high enough roll to do some good. Time (and the DM) will tell. :)

Edit: Added a Bardic Inspiration Boost. I think that this would have been from Faim.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:15, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

[OOC: So, Bross essentially went "two rounds out" from his position at the guard line, gathering everyone he could (including any PCs needing help and hopefully at least the other guard), and returned back to the line this round. If that is a wrong assumption, I'll fix this:]

They just make the line. "There's more comin'!" he says, loudly but breathlessly, to the guards. "These folk need a healer- where's a cleric or such?"

Gingerly handing over any 'civilians' [NPCs like a guard, etc] to be taken care of, Bross looks at the others [ie, any PC-types] and says "I'm going back out."

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 68):

Although he had no formal medical training, Alleycat had some rough-and-tumble experience of dealing with various sorts of wounds before, back in Waterdeep; and he felt that he had probably managed to keep the young fellow -- Ned, he thought his name was -- from bleeding out.

Overhearing the big axeman's plans to head back out to face the foes who had disappeared into the swirling smoke, Mekkar vigorously shook his head.

"Sir," he said, addressing the man -- Alleycat knew that the fellow most certainly was not a "sir", but he also knew that no one ever complained about being addressed as belonging to a higher class than they truly did -- "sir, 'tis naught but a fool's errand to venture back out there."

"Inside that smoke them Kobolds are thicker'n fleas on a mangy mongrel's butt, an' most likely they'll have some of those inbred Humans an' gods-damned Drakes to keep 'em company, for good measure."

He glanced down at the local man again and noted that the bleeding did indeed seem to have stopped -- at least for the moment -- and that the fellow's breathing was much steadier.

"This man -- 'Ned', I believe he is -- needs more aid than I can give him just now, and he's too heavy for me to carry to safety all by my lonesome."

"So, give me a hand by doin' somethin' useful an' gettin' Ned somewhere safe, instead of throwin' yer life away like some head-up-his-arse paladin."

---

OOC: When under pressure, Alleycat sometimes forgets to use the high-flown speech patterns that he has been taught, and lapses into the patois of Waterdeep's seedier streets and alleyways. :)
This message was last edited by the player at 22:37, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Hargrin glared up at Bross, disgruntled at the perceived implication he and those of his brethren among the fleeing people weren't doing their jobs well enough. "What these folk need is to get to the safety of the keep- a healer can only do so much with the strength the gods give them, particularly on the run like this. And I'm not much good for carryin' the injured." The dwarf was strong enough, but the length, particularly with the injured and sprawling, was decidedly awkward unless the victim was a small species or a child. "If it's the good folk of Greenest you're worried for, lad, they didn't seem to be fightin' anyone not fightin' them.Most folks'll have the wit to get down, stay down, an' not come out 'till the smoke clears." He paused briefly, and pointed up. "Also, *dragon*."

He then abandoned that conversation in favor of examining Alleycat's efforts with Ned. "Good work, here. Lot of practice dealing with wounds?"

OOC:
I'm assuming Ned has stabilized with the med check, but if not Hargrin will hit him with Spare the Dying. I do have one more spell slot to heal with, but we're not to the keep yet and I'm trying to save that 'till safety's in sight.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Faim was shocked by the speed at which everything changed. It was madness. He again regains his wits, "Here, I have a small cart, load that man in and we will go to keep, gathering up anyone we can along the way. Strength in numbers, but don't cluster!"

Faim leads leads his frightened mule to the others where it was conveniently waiting just around the corner of a building.

Antru clutched at the bolt in his stomach. He knew enough not to remove it, and it was through plain stubbornness that he hadn’t passed out or let out more than a grunt of pain. Had it not been for the white face paint the elf had on, his complexion would have changed to match it. ”Guess they didn’t like it” He says clearly in pain, but he keeps moving with the others.

With Bross talking about going back out, Antru nearly falls to the ground. <purple>”Get to the keep you dumb ox! This was an organized attack, not a random raid. You won’t be doing anyone good dead. “<purple> Antru doesn’t waste time saying more as he continues to make for the keep and some protection.

Sora, seeing the final volley of Arrows take down Ned and injure Antru  the half elf cursed and went to help the elf.

She arrived as he spoke to the warrior and snorted. "Dumb ox? That's the pot calling the kettle iron." she snaked her head under his free arm, wincing with her own injury.

"Let's get up to the keep before they decide to take a second shot at the elf who thinks he's funny."

She wasn't strong, but slowly helped him to the keep

Everyone was talking to Bross at once.



Bross, respecting the occasion, bit back on the "I'm not a 'sir', I earn my bread" saying his father ingrained into him. He now knew he was being sold something, but he waited to see what exactly. A... Dwarf- Bross was sure of it- interjected.



"True, but you've got them and you've got-" he said, indicating the guards and the smaller guy in the buffcoat.



"Ah, well, 'sir', that's as may be, but that brave fella with the swords 's still out there, and you don't just aba-"

At this point, he noticed Antru, as he staggered out from the fog...



...and kept right on walking.

"Well then. that's that, I picture."

"This man -- 'Ned', I believe he is -- needs more aid than I can give him just now, and he's too heavy for me to carry to safety all by my lonesome."

"So, give me a hand by doin' somethin' useful an' gettin' Ned somewhere safe, instead of throwin' yer life away like some head-up-his-arse paladin."

"Here, I have a small cart, load that man in and we will go to keep, gathering up anyone we can along the way. Strength in numbers, but don't cluster!"

Convinced enough, Bross carefully lifts Ned, lays him gently onto the cart, then (standing) anxiously looks into the fog.

 "If it's the good folk of Greenest you're worried for, lad, they didn't seem to be fightin' anyone not fightin' them. Most folks'll have the wit to get down, stay down, an' not come out 'till the smoke clears."

That pretty much settled the matter. Bross nodded. With a parting look at the guard's line, Tallcut moved as many along as he could.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:17, Wed 12 Jan 2022.

Ned remains stable, lying in the cart has prevented any exertion that could reopen his wounds.
Guards form a protective ring around the group. Kobalds watch from the edge of the smoke as the survivors gather and move toward the keep. Much activity can be heard from within the smoke but all of it is obscured from view. The survivors make it over the bridge.

As you enter the town, winged kobalds can be seen aligned on the rooftops, watching the retreat to the keep. The gates are open and are flanked by guards in heavy armor. Archers watch carefully from the walls. The kobalds are just out of range. Both sides remain tense, but for the moment the violence has ceased.

"Thank you," Alleycat responded to Hargrin when the Dwarf praised what he had done for Ned. "I'm glad I was able to help him. He seems like a nice fellow, and he certainly fought hard."

He glanced up the keep, and was relieved to see that plenty of archers and crossbowmen were manning the walls, high above him. Mekkar felt fairly certain that the throng of Kobolds would have rushed forward and tried to cut down more of the refugees, if not for the threat of the bolts and arrows that would rain down upon them if they came too close to the walls.

Next, he sought out the Halfling who had made his vehicle available. "Thank you for the loan of your cart," he said. "It was quite helpful in getting the wounded into the keep."

Speaking of wounded, Alleycat made his way through the throng of refugees, seeking those who had fought with him against the attackers.

"Does anyone need a little aid getting inside the keep?" he called out. "If so, my shoulder is steady. Trust me, there is no shame in asking for help when you are wounded."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:48, Thu 13 Jan 2022.

Bross likewise takes care of some side business, walking around talking to people, helping as need be.

(Bross' first priority was seeing if any of his people were still in the Fair when all hell broke loose. When he doesn't find any in the crowds, he starts worrying about where they are, out there: 'Did they leave early enough? Are they safe?')

Once the rush dies down, Bross starts picking up some rocks off the ground, he gets to chatting with a younger Greenest kid. ".... Yeah, don't tell anyone, but I was scared, too. But you ran fast. Wish I could run like that." [He's gathering slingable stones while calming down the younger kids. He doesn't say that's what he's doing, though. It just looks like he's 'keeping his hands busy', fidgeting.]

It wasn't so different from the younger kids around his village, and it kind of distracted him from his worries. Pretty soon, there were a small group of people, all mixed together, asking him questions. (It's not like he's hard to spot).

"My name's Bross." "Nah, I'm not with your Guard, just helping out." "No! I just met the 'lady with the mask' today." "Yes, she really does hit hard. That was for-real." "I don't know if 'friends' is the word..." "'Drake'? Is that what they call them? I'd never seen one before."

Off another question, he grimly answers "I don't know why they attacked, any more'n you do... I'll try.

After a while, he manages to drift over to where the people he recognizes from the fight and escorting them in, are: GreySky, Sora and Taria, various villagers. (He looks in on Ned, but he needs rest.) [Anyone else who wants to find him, obviously, can]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Fri 14 Jan 2022.

Antru leans back against the wall, just inside the gate. Its clear he needed a rest, as his breathing was labored and what of his natural skin tone shown was pale. <purple>"We need to get patched up fast and speak with whoever is in charge. I for one want to know why such a blasted backwater town like this is being targeted by a Dragon of all things."<purple>

Anger blazes in Antru's eyes, though he manages to keep it from his tone of voice. losing his eyes he rests his head back against the wall for a moment. When Allycat offer's assistance t a healer he nods to the man in acceptance.

Catrina placed the injured guards on the cart where Need is, she looks around to see if theirs anymore lagging behind. She's been getting a lot of recognition though, it's kind of embarrassing but she digress. She helps out anyone that lags behind their March to the keep.

After Sora reached the keep with Antru, she herself leaned against the wall,sliding down to sir, wincing all the way. With all the commotion, she spoke up.

"I'd like to get this bolt out of my shoulder, if it's not too much trouble!"

Your group is the last to enter the keep. The guards outside of the gate wait for you to pass then follow you in. The gate is lowered behind you.

The scene inside the walls of the keep was one of pandemonium. There was a great mob of people who had just fled for their lives, who were milling about on the inner grounds inside the walls. Alleycat supposed that the area had a name, but he didn't know what it was. And didn't really care.

Some amongst the crowd were screaming, some were shouting, and some were crying. Some were just standing in place, looking about dumbly, as if they were part of a great herd of sheep.

Mekkar had found a quiet (well . . . relatively quiet) corner and sat on the grass, with his back pressed up against a stone wall of one of the keep's buildings and his legs splayed straight out in front of him.

He had busied himself with cleaning the blades of his rapiers, carefully wiping off the blood and gore. He knew from past experience that it was bad for the steel to simply re-sheathe the weapons without cleaning them first. Eventually he would get around to his armor, as well, but he judged that his blades deserved his attention first.

~~I need to find someone to carry a message to Whispers. This Dragon attack -- supported by waves of Kobolds, with plenty of Human ruffians, and . . . what were those things? Drakes? . . . all pitching in, for good measure . . . This was not just some random raid. It is just the sort of thing that Basoro needs to hear about. Mayhap he'll be able to make some sense of it.~~

Alleycat glanced up at the milling crowd from his position on the ground, and sighed. ~~Now where, by Tymora's left tit, am I going to find parchment and ink in all this mess? I hesitate to resort to word-of-mouth -- there is too much reliance on the messenger in that instance . . . but it may be the best I can do in these circumstances.~~
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Fri 14 Jan 2022.

Getting a bolt taken out of ones stomach, was by far an experience Antru could have done without. Had he known the amount of pain that it would cause, he may have opted for leaving it in. But it was out and he was patched up. He was still sore from it but the goodly cleric in the keep managed to repair the bulk of the damage done to him. Of course the hole in his armor and costume would need some repair.

Finding a quite place, Antru finally sits down to his self. He takes the time to sort over his swird and give it a good cleaning. Something he wished he could have done sooner. Antru also finally takes out a small pouch that he had pocketed. Seeing what was inside, he made sure to keep it out of view of others. That he had lifted it from one of the thugs before the fight may not make a difference if someone saw.

Letting out a sight, Antru considers what to do next. He had little in the way of resources. Well other than the coin he had earned. Getting up he found his way to several of the Keeps store rooms and spoke to several people in an attempt to replace some of the items he had left in his camp. His main concern was getting his hands on a good longbow and a simple pack for travel.

Having finished his search about the Keep, Antru seeks out Sora to see how she was doing. Finding her he gives her a smile. [Language unknown: "Lo kor rea lienil ilster?"]

Not knowing what else to do (until the gates opened again), Bross paced.
Of course, being as tall as he is, "pace" meant most of the area.

While he was doing this, he looked in on the only people he really "met" in town since the Fair went all screwy:

GreySky: As he walks by, a perfunctory upward-chin nod and an "All right? Any news?" (She had struck him as self-sufficient and not being into long chats, so he figured she'd stop him if she wanted.)

Taria: He simply makes a short check on the Local Girl. (He, frankly, was too tied up in his business, at the time, to have seen all the magic she was doing, and so simply sees a local girl.) " [After introducing himself] "You well? Glad you made it in, safe. They told you anything? D'you have any kin here? I can go tell 'em you're alright ."

Alleycat: (Probably selected too quiet a spot for Bross to randomly pace by, but we can do that if you have any ideas)

Melody: If he sees her, he stops and thanks her for being out there. (It was as if simply having her there was inspiring in some way he couldn't quite put his finger on.)

Faim: {I doubt Bross saw an "adventurer's wanted" type sign, or he would've chewed Faim's ear off about signing on instead of trying his luck with Catrina. However, they're both available now, if Faim wanted to make a pitch...)

Alaric & Hargrin: He mainly "knows" as people who shouted at him, recently. Alaric has the advantage of being hurt (so Bross would want to know how he is).

The Guards: Specifically the ones he 'worked with', before. When time allows, he takes a second to introduce himself, ask about them, if they're alright (under the circumstances) and if they've heard anything.

Random NPCs: He attempts to be helpful to people he meets, about this situation- after all they were just in the same attack together. He doesn't have much, but he's willing to share, under the circumstances. He's willing to try calming people down, but all he has right now is distraction.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:28, Wed 19 Jan 2022.

Farm lad or not, the big fellow had wielded a mean axe during the fight outside the walls of the keep. Alleycat had just happened to look up as the big man -- more of a mountain of a man, really, by the slim Waterdehavian's standards -- was passing through the crowd nearby.

The fellow was easy to pick out of the crowd, both by reason of the axe that he was balancing lightly on one of his shoulders, and by the fact that he stood head and shoulders above nearly everyone else in the throng.

"Hoi, Axe-man," Mekkar called out, raising his voice so that the man might have a chance of hearing it. All the same, Alleycat knew that the crowd-noise might well drown out his hail.

---

OOC: I scrolled back through the Prologue, and I don't believe that Bross's name was spoken within Alleycat's (IC) hearing. Hence, the "Axe-man" sobriquet. :) Your call, Bros, as to whether you (IC) would care to strike up a conversation with AC.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:59, Fri 14 Jan 2022.

Catrina stands at the center of the crowd, making a pose for the children's amusements. She looks toward Bross as he spoke his question,"Ah, Tallcut, I've haven't got any news here but I did find my white cloaked friend. He can't really cure all the injured with his spells, but he is a license healer and can stabilize them from any life-threatening injuries." she says as she flex her muscles, continuing to pose.

Sora sat quietly as a female cleric came over and inspected the wound. The cleric chastised her for such a would and the half elf narrowed her eyes. like I wanted a bolt in my shoulder she thought to herself.

The cleric pulled the bolt and sora unceremoniously swore in several languages, including draconic, Elvish and some guttural language. The cleric showed a little fear and hesitation, but she made her continue.

Soon enough the cleric had the wound healing with a mix of magic and medicine. She sat quietly with her eyes shut, breathing quietly, her thought turned inwards.


She was snapped out of her thoughts by Antru's question. She opened one eye with a wry smile. "Healing....but I will live. My dress is ruined though." she shifted as she looked at him. "How are you feeling?"

[Language unknown: “Saca A anwa m Strsomeen t ar saadhe estlinset. Tha ndmeet no ho, K’k fo weall sheverher eau ic icno ureovevir.”] Sitting besides her Antru makes a small gesture and cleans Sora’s dress. [Language unknown: “Ousoulome To atne’ou il ntint cepl ivecpa th, korla of’ni e forforrom haerre.”]

Sora smiled the first warm smile he had seen, not one full of wryness or hiding pain, but a genuine thankful smile - which made her all the more attractive.

[Language unknown: "Oerersout beng preoreate....Ss ticse loing hohi tin somtictio li ate k hishasallhat fi strstaantons he, to ho astti enlipl pe u eareveted and ndmiin our essersson."]

She stared out into the crowd, the smile fading and a hardness coming to her eyes.

"It's something, at least. You need anything, give a holler."



Bross joined in. ('Cause why not?)



Looking around, Bross finds the source of the call. It was Sir Buffcoat. Not disrespectfully,   Bross nods back in greeting. "You alright?"

Alleycat smirked as the hulking axe-man struck a ridiculous-looking pose that seemed to involve a pissing contest with the female Half-Orc . . . well, not literally. 'Twas more a matter of flexing their muscles to see whose were the largest, to the accompanyment of a chorus of "Ooohs" and "Aaahs" from lots of adoring youngsters.

The Waterdehavian nodded in response to the big Human's inquiry as to his health. "Aye, quite well, considering how easily it could have gone the other way."

Mekkar finished cleaning one of his rapiers and sheathed the blade, then went to work on the second one.

"You gave a good account of yourself with that axe, from what I could see," he said, glancing up from his spot on the ground. "I was  busy with my own little part of that battle, however, so I couldn't watch you chopping away to the extent that I might have liked."

Alleycat thought for a moment and cocked his head to one side, not unlike a hound that is giving some thought to a matter of some interest. "If things continue to go downhill, you might want to consider getting your hands on a man-at-arms' battle-axe, instead of that tree-splitter."

Mekkar rose to his feet in a move akin to flowing water, seemingly without touching the ground with his hands. He shifted his blade to his left hand and offered his right to the big Human. "I answer to Alleycat," he said.

The courtyard of the keep is crowded with refugees from the fight. For the time being there seems to be no threat of an assault on the walls. Winged kobalds circle high overhead, out of range of longbow and spell. There are just a few of them, watching. The wind is picking up. Clouds move quickly, passing by the full moon as it rises.

Guards stand watch along the walls. Clerics from Hargrin's Order move through the crowd giving aid to the injured to the best of their abilities, their spells all spent. They do their best to comfort folks as well.

Many within the walls search for loved ones they were separated from in the smoke. Govenor Nighthill appears, encouraging the guards, assessing the enemies' movements and offering comforting words to the citizens trapped in his courtyard. He gives instructions to have local people, known to the guards moved indoors. His concern for a second wave of thugs in costume places limits on his hospitality. He gives instructions for tarps and tents to be raised to shelter those left outside. He has two scribes assigned to make two lists. One for those within the keep, and a second for those who may be missing.

He checks on one of the guards who Bross carried in. They speak in quiet tones, but any of you watching notice that the guard points out most of the group that helped hold the eastern flank. The Govenor pats the man's shoulder and starts moving your way. his gaze is focused on Hargrin, someone he knows well, but he assesses each of you for a moment as he works his way through the crowd.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:09, Mon 17 Jan 2022.

"Well... you do what you can." Bross said, evenly, apparently (to him) covering his axe-work, Mekkar's fight and subsequent cover on the way back and maybe everyone being busy with their own work to check up on the others.



Bross nods at the man. "Maybe." (He thought of the cost. And that he hoped, maybe, to find other work- maybe trees to cut or brush to clear- for the axe he had.)



Bross took the hand, and shook it. (Firm grip, not trying to kill him.)



"...And that's alright with you?" Tallcut answered. "I mean, if you 'answer to it' but don't like it, I can call you something else... We had a kid called 'fishface' back home. Didn't like it, but that's what people called him, so he started to answer to it, y'see? Never really sat well with me- "

(He continues. It is unclear if he's kidding, getting some kind of jab in, or just misunderstood.)
This message was last edited by the player at 05:04, Tue 18 Jan 2022.

In reply to Mike (msg # 92):

-Bross has a bedroll and so on he was planning to use, so he volunteers to stay out and free up room inside.

-He didn't cover what he felt was enough ground checking for his kinfolk, so he tells the scribes their general situation (they were leaving earlier this morning, so far as he knew, but who knows?) and asks them to let him know if they find any other Tallcuts around.

Hargrin nods to the Governor, but doesn't pause in the midst of leading a group of folks in prayer to the Lady to see them through this rough weather and restore life and prosperity on the other side. Unless the man sends a group outside in search of the missing, it's all he can do for his worried neighbors right now.

To Alleycat's way of thinking, the only reply that the big man gave that left room for further discussion was his questioning of the Waterdehavian's street name. Mekkar shrugged his shoulders and said "The name is of my own choosing and suits me well enough, so I have no complaints with it."

Just about then a newcomer who had been winding his way through the crowd paused for an instant and gave Alleycat a searching glance. Given the reactions of various people in the crowd who seemed to recognize the fellow and the man's expensive taste in clothing, Mekkar judged him to be a person of significant importance locally.

Alleycat met the man's gaze with a level look of his own, then watched as the newcomer moved off in the direction of Hargrin the brewer.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:28, Tue 18 Jan 2022.

"Good, then." he said (apparently satisfied with the answer). "I'm Bross Tallcut- I'm alright with that, myself."

It seemed silly to ask why Alleycat was up in Greenest (he was probably there for the Fair), or how it was going (odds were "pretty badly", what with the dragon and all), so Bross went for the nearest topic he could think of. "Did you come up in a group, for the Fair? Anyone you're looking for?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:11, Tue 18 Jan 2022.

Sora sat and watched the people milling about as she sat beside Antru, even now she felt a new strength within her, as if the battle - the very pain of her wounds spured her into further strength. Perhaps it was her anger towards the kobolds, the need to become stronger, but she felt within her a strength to do more.

Her gaze fell on the man, talking to others and looking at people - the warrior woman who fought, and the man she battled. The tiefling....melody was it? The bookish spellcaster. The cocky human who called himself cat (or something like that)

....and herself and Antru.

She narrowed her eyes and elbowed the elf at her side. "Seems someone is showing interest in us cousin...." Her tone was soft and cautious.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 97):

Allleycat nodded to the big man when he spoke his name, and silently repeated it in the hopes that he would remember it. He almost always remembered a face that he had seen before, but sometimes names had a way of slipping from his mind if he was not careful.

He suspected that Bross was just making conversation, doubting that the big man really cared about the answer to the question that he had just asked. Still, it didn't pay to be intentionally rude. Bross had the look of a local, and might prove to be a good source of information.

"To answer your question, I traveled down from Waterdeep with a merchant's caravan, although I am not one of the caravan master's men. 'Twas more a matter of my benefitting from the safety of their numbers on the road, whilst I provided an extra set of blades and a crossbow, should the need arise. But our Luck was good, and we never had to draw steel during the journey."

Mekkar shrugged."Mayhap I'll know what I'm looking for when I see it."

After a short pause he added "Although I'll admit that the reception was a bit warmer than I had anticipated at a harvest festival."

"Do you know of anything hereabouts that is valuable enough to interest a Dragon and hordes of Kobolds? Otherwise, Greenest seems an odd place for such a powerful force to target."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:42, Wed 19 Jan 2022.

Sitting on a small stool that she found somewhere. Taria writes carefully in a small book roughly five inches in height. The inkwell resting firmly on the ground. In some time between the conflict and now, her torn and bloodstained dress has been restored to pristine condition. From time to time, she looks up to evaluate the possible threat from above.

When Bross asks her a question or two, "My family tend to close up shop early in the day and then head back west to their farm. I did not see any of them by the time I had arrived. I figured I would be able to see them in the morning, though that is less likely now with all of these activities."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:15, Wed 19 Jan 2022.

Bross nodded. "My cousin, Arton, worked a caravan out of Berdusk. 'Good work', he said, 'If you can get it.'"



Bross barked a loud, surprised laugh at this. " I suppose you're right. Wasn't how I saw the day going, either."



Bross thinks about it. [No chance. ;) ] and comes up empty.

"Not I. I suppose I look native-enough if you're in Waterdeep, but I'm a stranger here, myself. Perhaps the Governor...?."

-------


"You don't say!" Tallcut was, frankly, impressed. (He had, just that morning, seen a dragon and personally fought a drake, but this was... relatable.) He bites back on a bunch of questions about the farm and whatnot, filing them for later.

"

"I s'pose so, yes." he agreed, slipping into a bit more of a local dialect than he would normally. "Hope you see them, soon. They must be proud, what with a Wizard in the family."

{short pause]
" About the 'activities'... What was all that about, d'you think?
This message was last edited by the player at 06:33, Wed 19 Jan 2022.

Alleycat nodded to the big man whom he now knew as "Bross" after the two of them had spoken. The Waterdehavian found himself wondering if the "governor" whom Bross had mentioned was the important-looking fellow who had wandered through the crowd just now.

~~Could be. Or mayhap His Nibs was just a big-shot merchant from hereabouts, looking to find his apprentices in the crowd so that he could tell them to quit their idling and get back to work.~~

Soon enough Bross had turned away from Alleycat, and he and the young woman who had given her name as "Taria" were engaged in a conversation. Mekkar didn't blame Bross in the slightest for turning his attention to Taria. ~~She's lots prettier than me. Seems nice, too --  for a wizardess, that is. Wouldn't want to get her mad at me, just the same.~~

When there was a break in the conversation, Mekkar nodded to Taria by way of a greeting. "Glad to see that you made it inside the walls."

"So . . . is this the first time you have had to use your magicks to defend yourself -- or others? I'd guess that life at Candlekeep would not have prepared you for what we just went through."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:37, Wed 19 Jan 2022.

Tarbaw was intrigued when he heard that adventurers my have helped support his troops during the evacuation of the Fairgrounds. The guards assured him that the eastern flank would have faltered far sooner if they had not been there. Hargrin and Ned were familiar to him. But the clown, a man weilding two rapiers, fairground grapplers, and spellcasters weilding beams of force and fire all sounded like folks who would be very helpful at the moment. He found them in the courtyard.

It seemed like most of them were nearby. He spoke up in grateful tones. I am Govenor Nighthill, I would like to thank the folks who supported the guards at the festival. Many more innocents would be in the hands of these villians if it were not for your courageos stand."

Catrina looks toward the governor and gives him a curt bow,"Catrina GreySky, great to meet you governor person. And it was no problemo, I couldn't standby and let a bunch of crooks go on the rampage, that and I saw this as a challenge, so it was a win-win for me anyway." the masked woman says as she chuckles.

Sora stood up, leaving the elf sitting on the wall. She walked up next to the closest person, who happened to be the bookish human who spoke....Catrina.

Sora winced as she stood there, still a little sore from the bolt in her shoulder, but found she had full movement. With hands on her hips, she looked at the man. "Like Catrina here, I'm not one to tolerate bullies in any form. Anyone who attacks innocents deserves what they got."

She crossed her arms and looked at the man. "You may call me Sora."

The govevenor's reaction to Catrina's chuckling over their horrific situation is restrained disapproval. "Thank you for your help." Shifting his attention to Sora, he asks "So Sora, were you injured? Do you need assistance from a healer? 

The half elf blinked but shook her head. "A healer attended to my needs, thanks. The bolt wound wasn't fatal, and her healing was enough to help me recover. Just a little lingering pain is all - will be fine in a day."

Nighthill smiled. "That is good. Are the others who helped friends that you came here with?" He studies the group thoughtfully, considering the reports from his guards.

She looked at Catrina and the others, shaking her head. "I came on my own, drawn by the market and need to resupply while I travelled. Fortunate we were here."

~~Well, that answers that question,~~ Mekkar thought to himself as he listened to the man in the heavy armor as he spoke. ~~His Nibs is, in fact, the governor.~~

Alleycat crossed his arms across his chest, deciding to hear the man out.

~~My guess is that he will want us to do something for him. Because he is shorthanded, don't you know, with scarcely enough troops to man the walls of the keep. Certainly there are none to spare for whatever he wants of us. Certainly not. ~~
This message was last edited by the player at 02:39, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

This may not have been an important moment for some- Waterdeep had Lords, Bross knew that much- but the Governor was far-and-away the most important official he had ever met. (The runner up being a village headsman near Tallcut Farms). Unconsciously smoothing his shirt, he stands tall as he listens to the others going first- nodding in keen agreement with Sora's sentiment about bullies, taking what he now assumed to be GreySky's normal tone in stride (She's just like that.) and standing near Alleycat and Taria, patiently.

He didn't put himself too forward (he's pretty big, and the guard saw him fighting)

If asked, he introduces himself plainly ("I am Bross Tallcut, of Tallcut Farms, Governor.") *,does the aw-shucks when thanked (" Just glad they all made it inside.") and otherwise keeps quiet for now. (He hasn't had many lessons in "town manners", but does know you con't miss swings you don't take.)

* I figure Tallcut's place is between a day and two-days' travel from Greenest, so odds are they at least vaguely know the name. And then there's his far-spread family...
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

Hargrin joined those around the Governor after concluding his prayer. Catrina's chuckle also met with a look of mild disapproval from the dwarf, if she even glanced down to see it. He realized she was a stranger and had no personal stake in events, but this was people's lives and livelihoods. To intervene for the 'challenge' of it, as though it were a game to win- he hoped he never grew to laugh at a people's troubles so cavalierly!

But he should remember her apparent youth. The young were often excitable and self-centered. Time and the perspective of more seasons often got them over it, if they lived long enough.

Fortunately, Nighthill reclaimed his attention then. "It sounds like you're working your way around to something, sir." He rumbled up at the governor with customary directness. "Who did they get, and what do you need?"

He'd wager a year's harvest the Chamberlain was one of them, but had the ruffians grabbed many more? If Nighthill was looking to round up a pursuit party, he wanted to be getting on with things.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:10, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

Nighthill smiled with gratitude. "Many local people remain missing, including Alaric Raos, and several coucilors. There are visitors from far and wide for the Festival. We are working on a list. If you are willing to help further you can join me on the wall to take a look at where we stand."

He steps away and leads you to the stairs to the top of the wall. The courtyard is still quite crowded. It is getting close to midnight when you peer over the crenalations for a view of the town. The moonlight reveals the situation in Greenest.

The keep is completely surrouded by kobalds armed with crossbows. Patrols consisting of ambush drakes and kobalds move about the perimeter. They are formed up just out of range of the archers on the walls. There are no prisoners within view. Kobalds and thugs work beyond the perimeter systematically removing anything of value from the shops and homes. It is all well orchistrated and disciplined. There are no fires, signs of violence, or random destruction.

Nighthill frowns at the sight of the town being carefully fleeced.We are too few to mount a proper counter attack. Even if it were feasible, we dare not strike without knowing the status of any captives. You should all get some rest. We will see what the morning brings.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:27, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

Catrina feels the disapproval coming from the older folks but shrugs it off as she follows them to the top of the wall,"Hmm, so rescue the captives first before doing anything else. Heh, I Caterina of the GreySkys we'll do her best endeavors to make that possible." she says boastfully,"Firstly though, I'll gladly take that nap. Rest is always a good thing to have."

[Assuming Bross was in on that number]

Bross listens carefully, and looks at the scene unfolding outside the walls- he's no strategist, but it's obvious that there's a plan, and it's happening. He makes low, concerned noises.

He didn't like the idea of having to scout. Bross knew woodcraft and stuff, but sneaky business wasn't his strength. ~~Maybe I could distract from the sneakier people?~~

And he takes the Gov's suggestion to go rest as just "disperse".

This is pretty much Tallcut's first time out, completely on his own, so he falls back on habit- formally "Good night"ing everyone he met by name that day. [That would be Catrina, Taria, Alleycat, and any NPCs in range]

He takes time to go do something...

...and then sets up his bedroll outside, to allow at least one extra person to sleep inside (if not several smaller people), settles in and rests.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:47, Thu 20 Jan 2022.

Bross approaches the guard he helped to the Keep. As he recalls the man is short, heavy, and solid. He recognizes Bross immediately.

" Had a chat wit tha Govenor. Good for you. He's a wise man. Looks a bit bookish heh. Don't let that fool ye. He commanded troops in Neverwinter for many years. Can still hold his own too."

Sora followed the governor up the stairs to the battlement. Despite her beauty, her semi elegant dress (with the bolt hole in the shoulder), her presence was stern, serious and almost commanding as she walked up. She stood by his side and looked out with a frown.

"Somethings amiss here. From what I know, Kobolds aren't this brazen or organised." she looked at Tarbaw. "Is this behaviour normal for the beasts in this area? Because to have such so organised and coordinated seems more like an army than a hoard."

"You are quite correct. It is most puzzling. I have never seen kobalds so organized." He shakes his head. "We will conserve our strength. They may still decide to attack the keep. We have the numbers to repel the ground forces. The winged kobalds could be troublesome. The dragon is another story. In any event, we will need all the help we can get.

Thank you."

The half elf looked out in the darkness. "Is there any way out...secret passages or emergency exits?"

"There is one. It remains an option. But with eyes overhead the exit would likely be compromised. I prefer to wait out the night. The dragon stays my hand for now. We will see what the morning brings."

Sora nodded her head, understanding the need to keep things close to his chest. "Perhaps if a group can get out, behind enemy lines, you can determine what is going on." Without looking from the scene, she smirked. "...but no doubt you've thought of that - which is why we are here."

She looked at the man with the smile. "Crafty wolf, aren't you?" she again looked out to the scene below.

"That remains to be seen."

He searched the sky for the dragon. No sign of it for now.

The half elf smirked.

She followed her gaze up. "Had i been in charge, it's what i would do. Send a team out to look for survivors, see what pushed them....when the time was right of course." She again smirked as she walked a few steps away, looking at the kobolds, drakes and bandits.

In reply to Billy the Neck (msg # 116):

Answers may be thin on the ground, but Bross has questions anyway. Billy seems to be a chatty sort, so he starts there:

-"You all right? You seem better!" (Bross is genuinely pleased.)

-"How many Guards has Greenest got? "
-"Where'd they come from? I mean, are they hired swords or locals?"
[He sounds interested.]

-"D'you ever see the like of this before? I mean, kobolds, a dragon and those drakes?"
-"I've heard of robbers- but have you fought these raiders before?" [He means the humans, here]
-"I'm no soldier, but this seems odd- don't they all seem organized to you?"

-"I don't get: why do kobolds want a Chamberlain? How'd they know it was him, to grab him?
-"D'you know him, at all? What's he like?"

-"Hey- you're a fightin' man- maybe you can help with something. How's this look to you? "(Swings axe at nothing, the way he does, possibly just looking for a pointer or two.)
This message was last edited by the player at 03:30, Fri 21 Jan 2022.

Antru had remained silent for much of the conversation. In truth he looked tired, even though his makeup. On the wall he listens to Sora speak and watches the movements of the patrols. He seems to finally make up his mind to speak. "I'm not a solider, nor a tactician. But if I were to wager, I'd say they intend to use your town as a staging area." He reaches into his pocket and takes out a pouch and tosses it to Nighthill. "I took that off one of the humans down there. Just before they launched their attack. So they scouted you out. The knew when to strike and where your weak points would be. If it were me, I'd still have some hidden among us. Just incase you decided to do anything foolish."

Catrina starts picking her ear as everyone started talking about 'if I were the bad guys, I would' along with some strategy,"Man, now I really wanna go to sleep, see ya by morrow everyone." the masked girl says with a yawn and walks back downstairs, she then bare witness to Bross asking a guard a bunch of questions.

Alleycat had no interest in following the governor and his group of hangers-on and toadies up to the top of the keep's wall. He supposed that they would all peer around from up high and blather on about this and that, each trying to convince the others -- and the governor, most especially -- what fine fellows and lasses they were.

He made his way back to the spot where he had sat and cleaned his blades. There he spread out his bedroll and prepared to turn in for the night. To his way of thinking, his traveling cloak would keep him warm and keep the evening dew off of him.

~~Hopefully I can get a little rest. All should be well overnight, and tomorrow is a new day.~~

~~Unless that Dragon decides to come back, of course. Then all bets are off.~~

Shortly after he had settled in, his eyes snapped open. "Well, damn!" he muttered to himself. "I almost forgot."

~~I need to ask around and see if I can find some parchment and ink. I need to send word to Basoro by way of Whispers. If I can find one of the keep's scribes in all this mess, he -- or she -- should have what I need.~~

With a heavy sigh he rose to his feet, rolled up his bedroll, and tied it atop his pack. Then he shouldered his pack and set out to find one of the guards, who could hopefully direct him to a scribe . . .
This message was last edited by the player at 19:41, Fri 21 Jan 2022.

Sora, looking out, sighed best to the governor. "There's nothing more I can do tonight, so unless you need something specific I need some rest."

She went downstairs, found a space quiet enough and closed her eyes to rest, using the blanket from her pack to keep warm

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 124):

Billy nodded, "Clerics took good care of me. I'm ready to go."

He thought about their numbers for a moment.

"We have fifty men-at-arms like me. We live in the keep. There are about two hundred in the militia. Men-at-arms are a standing force paid in gold, recruited locally and from the caravans that pass through town. The militia is made up of volunteers from the town and surrounding farms. They get good training, equipment and stipends of grain for their service.

<Blue>I have never seen nor heard of anything like this. Have no idea why they'd grab the Chamberlain, works for the Council, head bean counter, good man, nice family."

He watched Bross swing and shrugged a bit.

"Seems strong, but not the way the men-at arms train to fight. Govenor insists we master the shield first, how to protect ourselves and the person next to us. Then we learn spear, a smaller one handed axe and sling. Your style seems far more offensive. We prefer to fight in formation though. The militia are trained as archers, longbowmen from town and mounted skirmishers from the farms. No one is really trained for large two handed weapons."

As Sora turns to get some rest, the Govenor nods and replies. "Good night, thank you all for your help. I have a few more things to attend to, but hope to see you in the morning if you are willing to help."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:23, Sat 22 Jan 2022.

Bross took in what Billy was saying.

He was glad for the advice. (Bross mainly swung his ax really hard and hoped it hit, so even 'not what I do, but it looks like fighting' came as high praise.)

In-between all this, he nodded (silently, but companionably) at Catrina, who had walked down the stairs toward them. It had been a long day- their wrestling match that morning felt like weeks ago now- but in a strange way it made her the closest person  in their group.

"Someone's gonna have to round up the militia, then, huh?" he continued, idly, to Billy. "They wouldn't stop a dragon but least it'd be something, ri- oh listen to me,as if I was a general."

With a headshake, he got it back together. "We'd all better turn in- I don't know yethow we mean to get the Chamberlain back, but we aim to do it. Best done fully-rested."

Bross rises to go.

"Glad you're better" he adds, patting Billy on the (really strong) shoulder. Which raises an idea. He grins widely. "...once this is over, two silver on an arm-wrestle, whatcha say?

With a further goodnight to GreySky, in passing, Bross heads off for what would probably be a restless night's sleep.

[He didn't miss that Mr. Neck didn't answer his question about how they knew it was the Chamberlain, but he also didn't know if it "meant" anything, yet.]
This message was lightly edited by the player at 20:28, Sat 22 Jan 2022.

Faim appeared to be in deep thought as the ad-hoc party got to know each other. Eventually, he took out a journal and began furiously scribbling the events of the raid. He then approached each in the group and asked them about what happened.

He eventually snapped the book shut, content to make notes later.

He listened intently to the governor and the man at arms. Faim wanted to help, he was willing to go on the rescue mission, excited about it even, but was worried that you would freeze up again.

"Yes, rest will be good. And some contemplation," Faim set out his bedroll on his cart, "No sense taking up more room than I have to," he muttered absentmindedly. As the light waned, he grabbed a copper piece out of a pouch and cast Light on it and continues making notes in the margins of today's journal entry. Eventually, his concentration frown was replaced by a sly smile. He winked his CopperLight(TM) out and fell into an easy sleep.

"Hehe, goodnight Mr. Tallcut!" Catrina says after witnessing the two men discuss and Bross challenging him to an arm-wrestling match after this is over. She just met Bross today and she's already feel like a comrade to her, anyways, she then yawns and sees that as a sign for her to go to sleep. So she heads off for bed.

You find your way to your beds as the wind picks up. It is a cold night for any in the open with just the Keep's walls to cut the wind. Dawn comes ushering in a windy and overcast morning. You awaken to horns blasting from outside of the Keep.

The gaurds rush to the walls. Those of you who join them see another unexpected twist. Over one hundred prisoners have been brought to the limits of the kobalds' line. They are surrounded by drakes and whip wielding kobalds.

A very large figure, slightly larger than Bross, steps through the line and approaches the gate. It is blue and scaled and definitely draconic in nature, but is not a true dragon. He steps to within Hailing distance and shouts.

"Govenor Nighthill! Ichthriss has business he would discuss. He refuses to speak the human tongue. You must treat with him in Draconic."
 

Faim hears the announcement and immediately begins a quiet incantation, he won’t be able to speak it, but in time he will be able to hear what’s going on. Hopefully it will take a few minutes or 10 to find someone who speaks draconic.

<orange>Ritual cast comprehend languages for next 10 minutes</orange >

Sora's night, despite being outside, wasn't as bad as she expected....she'd definitely had worse! Yes it was cold, but after her injury and use of her magic, she was dead tired.

So when the horns blared, she started awake, blinking. She was half asleep when she saw the soldiers running up - 2hich blasted away her drowsiness as surely as the horn.

She stood up and made her way up, standing beside and a half step behind the governor. Her face dropped at the sight of the prisoners, her hands clenching at her side, anger welling up.  She took a breath and visibility relaxed just as the envoy spoke.

Sora took a breath.this bastard is smart she thought to herself. insisting that puts the governor at a disadvantage from the start.

Stepping up, she whispered softly in his ear. "I can speak the draconic tongue....you can introduce me as your assistant or niece. Any surprises and I can help protect you....not that you'd need it."

The Govenor takes a deep breath as he surveys the scene. He turns to Sora and nods with appreciation. "I do not speak Draconic. Thank you, it seems I will need your aid once more." He does not move from his spot above the gate. Guards make room so that Sora can stand beside him.

The herald raises his fist. Two thugs drag the Chamberlain forward, in Plain view of the Govenor.

They stand in silence for several minutes. Waiting

Sora steps forward and stands at his side, calling out. [Language unknown: "Io earforain wi re bewast senica adta ntihasshe. I u foes wa seterepre has iseechle, p po stckla ee Ie un he u acofivicin."]

The halfdragon looks up at you and nods.

The kobalds all become still and silent.

All except those that make a hole in their line for Ichthriss to step through.

The small kobald in purple robes strides confidently forward. His followers watch in silence. When he gets close to the half dragon, they speak quietly for a moment before he looks up at the Govenor.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:54, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

Sora was a little surprised the leader was a kobold, but only for a moment. She knew that looks meant nothing - she was a perfect example of that. For so many to follow him he was either respected, powerful or both.

...and that was something she would not underestimate.

[Language unknown: "Ar teica iv ioutedpro pr Sasipa......Yintiosan somlarand n mi es th ckecil ta, itheaures u Caivce, nginev me ingredion wieeno."]

In reply to Langdedrosa Cyanwrath (msg # 139):

The kobald is in no hurry. He watches the human leader, carefully guaging the man's reactions.

After a few silent moments he waves for the thugs to bring the Chamberlain closer.

[Language unknown: N il Eles'lobe, E is tamihein t tioresrut en pail Itniun.] The kobold speaks clearly, with perfect diction.

Sora looks at him, then the Kobold. [Language unknown: "Hi thoaveons mape re loomersaon ne a stievetra."]

THe Kobald rsponds to Sora.

[Language unknown: "Pe ess ma ndedayproect. Ol stof'riprbe omugh stisei er astari. K fi beic k eser ticshelintinore a llseul. ]

Antru leans against the wall. He seems well rested and looking better than he had after the battle. He raises an eyebrow at Sora when she volunteered to translate. As she steps past him he whispers to her. [Language unknown: “One’i ou o ca inos llort ngberi. P’me mostth aces werreawit ine elrohe rut ma hewi o.”]

He watches the exchange and studies the half dragon and Ichthriss.


Perception to spot anything o of interest about the half dragon and kobold.

Insight to see how truthful they are being with the talks.

18:17, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Insight .
18:17, Today: Antru Mistseeker rolled 13 using 1d20+2.  Perception

In reply to Antru Mistseeker (msg # 145):

The kobald watches, calmly waiting for Sora to translate.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:37, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

She looks at Antru and then the kobold. [Language unknown: "Enar erson libe trekio oltio me m ivmime powi niplol m ant t t ureforhourea ess io se tiotioanythu i roeeai adome oveithsta. Us k pa erolicac la."]

She looks at Antru. "I will do as was asked by my uncle." Looking at The govenor, she nods. "He has agreed to the terms of me translating for you, however he understands the common togune so he will know if i am deceptive - which of course i will not be."

The kobald looks up then gestures to the prisoners and speaks.

 [Language unknown: Un thu o derentain ek oneenthat. I ainwitlin oures ons ioilar I towaon.]

Sora grimaces as he speaks, but looks at the governor. "He wishes to offer to sell the slaves."

The govenor nods, is quiet for a moment, then asks,

"What is his price?"

The kobald waits for Sora to translate Tarbaw's question.

Sora looked at him and spoke simply, calmly and to the point. [Language unknown: "E atentenot poushe i isic ha beecel?"]

Catrina slept comfortably in her bed, ready for the next fight she'll come across. Her peaceful slumber was then interrupted by the sounds of horns blasting, not one to be a morning person, Catrina groggily puts on her masks and costume. She then comes out of her temporary quarters were she just arrives at the negotiations,"Huh, things don't look good around here. Alright, I'm not sure what's going on but if things go south, I'm here to beat up the strongest one of you lots." the masked woman announces boldly to the army as she cracked her knuckles in a fit of bravado.

Ichthriss looks directly at the source of the interruption. Then back at Sora, he responds in draconic.

[Language unknown: "Plme ne m urngplro? Ivil romatestithu actr un vencomtin el n ckeetiil. La pa at p hope niplis u hathe i."]

Sleeping in the spot that he had picked out for himself out in the inner courtyard of the keep was not the most comfortable night for Alleycat, but neither was it the most uncomfortable. His cloak, blanket, and bedroll kept him warm enough, and it occurred to him that many of the townspeople -- those who had lost all of their possessions, or family members (and most certainly those who had been captured by the attackers) -- had undoubtedly spent a much more troubeld night than he had.

It was the trumpeting of the horns that had awakened him -- that, and the stomping of many feet and shouts as the guards rushed up to the walls of the keep. After stowing his blanket in his backpack and securing his bedroll to its top by means of some leather tie-cords, he pulled on his cloak and shrugged his shoulders into the straps of his backpack. Then he found some stairs that led up to the walkway that led around the inside perimeter of the top of the walls of the keep.

Mekkar joined the group of people who stood near to the man whom he now recognized as the governor, and peered out through a gap in the crenelated wall.

~~Hunh,~~ he thought to himself as he surveyed the scene spread out below him. He had seemingly arrived after the back-and-forth discussion had started -- not that he could understand most of it, since it was not being spoken in Common -- so he was unsure what had transpired prior to his arrival.

~~What is that? A half-Dragon~~ he wondered. He also took note of the fact that the attackers -- or at least this portion of them -- were seemingly led by a Kobold. He found himself curious as to what the Kobold had planned for the miserable prisoners who were gathered below the walls of the keep.

He stood quietly and listened, letting the scene play out . . .

The kobald's attention rests entirely on Catrina while he waits for a reply.

In reply to Ichthriss (msg # 156):

The halfdragon's gaze falls on Catrina as well. He shouts in clear common,

"If that was a challenge, You will come out."

Bross had begun the morning in serious silence. He quietly packed up and prepared - sling, blade, stones, axe, armor.

Sora and the big bluescaled man spoke, unfamiliar language echoing back and forth. Bross took an unobtrusive post and listened. This seemed tense. But he held hope that calm heads might steer a way out -

And then GreySky woke up. Barging right in, she got this Ichthriss' attention alright. But now she was being called out, in turn as a champion.

Bross knew three things, right then. One, this was a terrible idea. Two, he knew his loyalties and Three, he knew she'd need a second. Duels had seconds. Village *fistfights* had seconds.

Grimly muttering about how this day was *already* going, he nodded to both Sora and Catrina in a "ready to back your play" way.

Tarbaw turns toward Catrina. All can see plainly that he is at the limits of his patience.

"This is no game or carnival act. There are hundreds of lives at stake. We are in no position to make or negotiate the rules of this fight. You have stepped in where you do not belong. Answer him now and live with the consequences. Was that a challenge?"

Antru cringes at the challenge. He wasn't fool enough to risk such a fight, and he hoped it didn't ruin their chances of getting the "slaves" back. Not sure on what he could do, Antru waits and listens.

Catrina gives out a smirk and looks back toward the army,"Yeah, I won't deny what I said. I made my challenge, the terms of this challenge is that you are to not bring any harm to the hostages and set them free once I win. Rules are martial prowess only, if you have magical abilities that's a no go, that includes your dragon's breathe friend." she says, wielding her staff, ready for a fight.

The kobald casts a spell. He raises his hand and points at Catrina. Seven darts of force erupt from his fist. They strike Catrina in the chest. He looks up at Sora.



[Language unknown: An onieac earla wer i i eveiv iosiarlaei trncus.]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:34, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

The govenor looks at the nearest guard.

Get her away from the walls. If she is still alive, lock her in a cell and get her a healer. Don't let her out until you hear from me.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 22:15, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

~~"Once I win"? ~~ Alleycat thought to himself. ~~She certainly isn't lacking in self-confidence, that's for certain.~~

He was just about to raise his voice and call out to Catrina in the tongue of the Orcs "Fortune favors the bold" -- it was an old saying that he had heard somewhere (he could no longer remembered where) -- when the leader of the Kobolds unleashed his magicks.

~~Well, so much for that.~~
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

"Ouch, that was a bit of an unfair blow, and I even said no magic." Catrina says as she stands back up but goes back down, already winded,"I'll let you continue negotiations, it seems someone doesn't like fair play in their fight." she says as she just sits down on the floor trying to catch her breathe.

Whoops forgot to update my HP. Also, Relentless Endurance let's me stand at 1 HP

In reply to Catrina GreySky (msg # 165)

He and three other men-at-arms converge on Catrina.

"You are under arrest. Come with us"

"Looks like I don't got much choice. Fine, fine!" Cat says as she's escorted out to a jail cell.

Billy locks Catrina in a cell and stands guard at the door. The other three guards return to the wall.

Ichthriss waits until he is satisfied that there will be no interruption.

He looks back up at Sora.

[Language unknown: Wiro n tr onswasons. N unom ven teerbe, ive o tour.]

He gestures toward the Chamberlain,

[Language unknown: I nce ee ncicle eschni.]

(Bross is still waiting for any sort of 'go' signal. If there's a crenellation to sit or crouch up against, so he's not visible from down below, that's where I think he'd go.)
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

Sora, stunned and clearly irritated by Catrina's outbirst, remained calm. Seeing him cast his magic, she knew the kobold was a potent spellcaster - better than her skills

She nodded to the kobold, then turned to the govener.

"He has said if there is anymore interuptions that the slaves....all the slaves die. His price is all the coins you have, and he says he knows exactly how much you have."

Behind the battlement, she clenched her fist. She wanted thos kobold to pay, but even though Catrinas outburst could have cost more, it also showed them what he was capable of ....he was a powerful spellcaster in a position of power

In reply to Sora (msg # 171):

Tarbaw clenched his fists then looked out at Alaric and shook his head.

He turned to the nearest guard. "Make it so, all the coins from the treasurey. Put them in chests and bring them to the gate."

He looked at Sora, Agree to his terms, we will deliver the coins to the gate.

Wordlessly joining whichever servants or functionaries leaving the area (making some attempt to blend in), Bross looks for someplace to meet up, regroup and try to figure something out.

[He signals to any PC in the group- especially Sora- once he's out of eyeshot of the group outside]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:54, Sun 23 Jan 2022.

Sora had a sour look on her face, but nodded. She turned. [Language unknown: "Pe verwilthi thiiveear wa wheev cemeto. Ul ss alnaro com whilos la ch ieesli ecmi ha ereundsta he n ave li."]

The kobald nods, points at the halfdragon and replies

[Language unknown: Ineartoveven venou thhi ng poles eilefi o ivein mapa'ulro]


The kobald turns and leaves the field.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:52, Mon 24 Jan 2022.

Tarbaw turns to Sora,

Once the prisoners are safe, we will talk about our response. For now, I must see this through.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 01:39, Mon 24 Jan 2022.

~~Well now, that is interesting,~~ Alleycat thought to himself as he heard Sora translate the head Kobold's boast that he knew exactly how much money was in the local treasury.

~~I don't suppose there is any way to know whether that is truth or a falsehood. But if true, 'twould seem that there are a spy or spies within the governor's household. I wonder who would be willing to ally themselves with the likes of Kobolds?~~

~~Ah, who am I kidding? There are no doubt some who would be more than willing to ally themselves with the Kobolds' golders.~~

As the Waterdhavian looked on, the governor gave orders to empty the treasury into chests and to transport the wealth to the gates of the keep. ~~I give Nighthill high marks for being willing to empty his treasury to save the lives of his people. I feel certain that some nobles would have decided differently.~~

~~I wonder whether the head Kobold -- Ichthriss, was that the name that the Half-Dragon had mentioned? -- will honor his bargain, once he has his hands on the loot?~~

~~I suppose that we will find out before too much longer.~~
This message was last edited by the player at 03:27, Mon 24 Jan 2022.

Sora, a grim look on her face, simply nods at the man. "For my part, I'm glad I could help...but later we need to talk."

She turned and went to the gate, ready when it was opened....she too would see it through, just to see who this kobold trusted.

Antru follows Sora down to the gate once all is said and done. [Language unknown: "Asera tra ma houhassti ncusch? Th resshehis llwhi loce ol ouhoisnc liwi ilni iewhncwa."]

Sora, still grim, answered her Elvish cousin without looking. [Language unknown: "Thuhasichver. Pllo ionain oul ect peaimi ad stathabut vor encandter n ur ilbe has p ulto usur watehe, po herundman pr paevta tha e ill estndeore ho."] She looked at him and her bravado dropped in a weak smile. [Language unknown: "Roove sonwillin m encdinwhe u stiureone, aiou el atlemi acted iv ndhond...."] She left the comment hanging.

She sighed as she walked. "...but the govener has made his choice. I'll stay to see the people safe."

Seeing Sora make her way to the gates of the keep, Alleycat suspected that the magicker intended to venture outside the walls.

~~Ah, Mekkar, you know better than to do what you are thinking,~~ he thought to himself. ~~But methinks that Tymora must respect those who are willing to roll the dice with their lives hanging in the balance.~~

And so it was that the Waterdhavian joined Sora at the gates.

"Do you mind if I accompany you?" he asked.

"I respect bravery in others when I see it, and I think you quite brave to venture out there."

He smiled an honest smile. "There are many back home in Waterdeep who would be convinced that I have lost my mind -- and who would find the idea outrageously funny, coming from the likes of me."

"But, if you will have me, just think of  me as your Honor Guard."

His smile broadened when Antru joined them. "Welcome, brother Elf. Let us hope that the Kobolds are not overly fashion-conscious."

---

OOC: As sometimes happens, Antru cross-posted with me, so I added in a greeting for him at the end of AC's post. :)

PS. I see that Sora has cross-posted, also. :)
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Mon 24 Jan 2022.

Sora smiled as Alleycat came up and spoke. "Many would say foolish with what i suspect we face." she mumbled. She looked forward and continued. "...but come if you wish. The more, the merrier, i say."

She looked back at Alleycat And Antru and cracked a wry smile. "First time with an honor guard - have to say i kinda like it." Her gaze went back to teh gate, and all hints of humor left her face. "Stay on your toes...and if you must, run." Then she spoke in elven. [Language unknown: "Acoupl o lepe'ennc forvenshe sahelo.....san ave tedionvir esseer."]

Antru give Allycat a nod when he joins them. ”Glad I am to have companions who have clear heads in their shoulders.”

He gives Sora a brief smile. [Language unknown: “Amece popo eemo thi? Undicavor a tr terallhis miei”] It’s clear he was making a joke, lame as it might be. [Language unknown: “Ei eiichethng E’u ro ure u iturivpe adwhon itfi. Foressdin her’o ckeila ortaveble a esat larverkor ndlo fi etstr th. Ous adcon mi asthi shethothe ri. Tamiacllha Ad’ss korredill enouie elac.”]

”Guess she will have two escorts to watch her back then.” He says to Allycat

Left to his own devices, Bross makes himself useful.

~~Shouldn't be too hard to find the Governor~~ he thought, seeking him out.

His plan was to first offer to throw his strength in toward loading the ransom. It wasn't what he would ideally want to do, but it's what the Governor wished.

Next thing would be for Bross to volunteer to cart it there [Animal handling; Proficiency: Ground Vehicles] (Preferably one they didn't mind not getting back, if things went sour. )

Tallcut didn't think the gods graced them with enemies dumb enough to let him go all the way to their stash and back, but he also saw what they did to GreySky's offer of honorable combat. They might not respect 'don't kill the messenger' either. So he liked his chances of getting back safely more than some poor village coachman's. And if they lied and simply didn't return the prisoners...
This message was last edited by the player at 05:17, Mon 24 Jan 2022.

With the display of mystical power, Taria began to make some calculations. She believed she recognized the magical expression. It was one that she had begun to formulate in her own workbook. However, the energies that she believed she could evoke was a mere fraction of the power the half-dragon conjured with a simple gesture. Scholars posited a number of theories about dragons, including them being a node of pure mystical potency. It was entirely possible that Half-Dragons shared a similar well of power or perhaps a connection to the potency of their sire.

While she calculated and notated, she calmly maneuvered herself into the orbit of those seeking to play a role into any discussions of following steps and actions. She did not want to make herself to prominent lest the Governor recall the festival she ruined herself as her powers began to develop.

Things continued to to move fast. Of course I will go, though I prefer to leave my own cart here. It's what holds my stuff. But if another cannot be mustered. But I expect Nighthill will take care of that. In any case..." Faim heads to the front gate, and waits for the opportunity to join the recovery party. <goldenrod>"I think if we go out there, and don't blink, we can make a noble spectacle of ourselves, and saviors to the prisoners. If not, well..."

The large chest with the ransom is loaded into a cart by 3 of the strongest guards and Bross. They hitch a mule to the cart and lead it to the gate. Sora, and the rest of the party ,with the exception of Catrina, stand near the gate with Govenor Nighthill. As soon as the gate opens and the halfdragon can see the cart, he nods to the thugs guarding the Chamberlain, he is freed to enter the Keep.

Alaric closes the gap between his captors and his freedom with dignity. He walks to the gate and enters. When he reaches the Govenor, Tarbaw extends his hand in friendship. The Chamberlain takes it with both hands and holds back tears as he apologizes.

Sora focused on the half dragon, ignoring the interaction between the govener and Alaric. she spoke clearly to the half dragon. [Language unknown: "Ll pocaas. Remo entkorard el ioilul. Eau ulna st ent nc di ine ersthiand eloun notithhiswer?"]

The halfdragon nods, All in good time. I will release half now and the other half after we count. I will back away and leave these two to do the counting. Once they reach the agreed amount they will move the coins out of the range of your archers and then release the rest.

The man is stricken with shame as he reaches for the Govenor's hand, "Govenor, I am so sorry, they questioned me about the treasurey... I did not talk... the kobald could read my thoughts... I could not keep him out...I am so sorry. They know it all."

The woman nods. "Acceptable."

The exchange occurs without any further difficulty. The half-dragon is true to his word. Once they are satisfied with the count, the cart is moved to just out of range of the archers. The remaining prisoners are released. The cart does not move until the last prisoner passes it. THe kobalds begin withdrawing after the last prisoner enters the gate.

Ned smiles as the last prisoner reaches the gate, he is happy and grateful to see so many families are reunited. "This is good." He says to himself. He follows Sora and the rogues to see if there is a way for him to be helpful.

Sora stands, watching as they count, not moving as the first half of the prisoners pass the gates. When they are done, she watches as the otehrs are released and they make their retreat, watching even as the last goes into the keep. When the doors close, she looks at Tarbaw. "my advice, Gorvener, is you have a meeting as soon as possible. I have a little insight on the enemy, so if you'll allow, i'd like to come."

She looked at Taria. "...her as well, at the very least. She has a grasp of magic."

The Govenor looks less tense. He smiles at Sora, "Of course, we will meet. You may invite the others who helped on the eastern flank as you see fit. Only invite those with good sense. That fool of a wrestler and any who can not maintain a thoughtful conversation should find different ways to contribute. First, we must assess, determine who has fallen, who remains missing and if we are still in danger. We will meet at noon. Excuse me for now."

He walks away and begins issuing orders to guards to investigate the fairegrounds and the town. Once satisfied with their understanding of the information he needs, he calls for the scribes who made the lists of the missing and instructs them to confirm all who have returned.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:17, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

Sora nods and the man, then turns to Taria, Alleycat and Antru. "We need to talk....follow me." She walks over to a private corner and looks at the three. "Before we meet with Tarbaw, we need to decide what happened here." She looked at Taria.

"I know a little of magic - not much, but enough to know that spell was a more powerful form of a basic spell." She looked around, spying a few of the others. "Unless i'm mistaken, he may send a team out to either spy on this army, or get his gold back - possibly both. I for one would like to try, but i want to know what we're up against." She looks at the other two. "You two had my back, and i appreciate that. But we need more people - more muscle and more people who know magic. If i remember right, there was a dwarf, a cleric. Antru, try find him and ask him to the meeting."

As soon as they're back through the gates, he lets out a long-held breath. ~~That shouldn't have happened at all, but at least it didn't get worse!~~

When he got back to the area where they loaded the cart, Bross nodded to the guards (By now, he was sort of seeing them as work-buddies), and tossed a few coins into the now-empty town coffers.

"It just feels like... bad luck, leaving it empty" he explained, "..and besides, someone's short a good animal now." [-8 GP] (Bross- who had to pull a plow or two himself in his life- knew what it was to have to work a field without an animal. He didn't wish that on anyone.)

Part of that was money he'd set aside for a rematch with GreySky- which, of course, made him think of her in the cells, somewhere. He doubted they'd mistreat her (he might have actually paid to see them try to), but it would be worth asking after her anyway.

But, first, serious business awaited. From what Bross could see, the petty reeves who asked for names of the missing had finished their accounting. Bross had family he was worried about, and his new friend Taria said she had no idea where her family were either. Wasting no time, he goes up, gives their names, and asks if anyone knows anything.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:01, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

~~Well, that explains how that head Kobold knew about the amount of wealth in the treasury,~~ Mekkar thought to himself as the chamberlain told of the Kobold's ability to pry into his mind.

~~I wonder what sort of range those sorts of magicks have? Hopefully 'tis short range. Otherwise, we have a real problem. I should ask our magickers, and see if they know anything about it.~~

The good news was that rest of the exchange went smoothly, and their foes honored the bargain that they had made.

The Waterdhavian nodded his agreement when Sora gave her opinion that whatever task was ultimately given to them, they needed more people who were willing to pitch in -- people who could give a good account of themselves in a dust-up. She asked Antru to seek out the Dwarven cleric and invite him to the upcoming meeting with the governor.

"Hargin," he said to her. "That's the name of the Dwarven cleric whom you were just talking about."

"Me, I'm going to see if I can find that big farmer who drove the cart that hauled the treasure out to those bastards. He was with us during that fight outside the walls, and he gave a good account of himself with that wood-axe that he carries."

"Bross, I think his name is -- he'll be even tougher in a fight if we can get him some proper equipment."

With that, Alleycat went looking for Bross. ~~A man that big shouldn't be hard to spot, seeing as how he stands head and shoulders above most of the rest of the crowd.~~
This message was last edited by the player at 03:43, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

Sora nodded at Alleycat's idea. "Good idea - He will do well. Also watch out for that Tiefling....she had some skills as well. Antru - Find Hargrin, and if he can recommend anyone, or anyone else who helped us, do it.  Meet me here a little before noon."

She turned and made her way to Tarbaw. "Govener....I'd like to ask something of you. Can i have permission to see the hard headed woman who almost blew our negotiation. I'd like to gauge her mind."

With a nod, Taria follows Sora. When she herself assesses the magical display, Taria adds, "I am not sure if 'form' is the proper term. It is the same expression of power, but the formulation is more intense, more complex. It is a simple expression of power with added layers to it allowing a greater input of vis and an obviously enhanced effect. That may be a semantic point, but probably not important in the grand scheme."

Sora looked at the woman, a confused look on her face. "So...same spell, more power put into it?"

Antru joins the group as Sora asked. "I'll see what I can do to find the dwarf" He says in response to her request. Followed by. [Language unknown: "Ch it aina ic hiwain al as ncwhbe. P ame ic soningwil ndrenclion sheestant k anes sta tra ourwerred. Hipo mohe t nde paec aiadst se eich thnepr enstr wentie. Houarttho ofan N ionos m ss u on comla iveconore ei eveortour. Is saas ulest ngtead."]

As he was about to depart, Allycat made his suggestion of finding Bross. "Him and the hot headed lass would both be useful. Lets see if she can be reasoned with, or if she is always so brash."

With that Antru walks towards the infirmary, as its the last place he remembered seeing the dwarf.

Alleycat raised his hand as he walked off, to acknowledge that he had heard Sora's parting comments. "Look for the Tiefling -- got it," he called back over his shoulder, without turning around.

~~If she survived the fighting outside the walls, that is. I lost track of her at some point during the battle, and I have not laid eyes upon her inside the keep.~~

On his way to look for Bross, Mekkar happened to pass the Halfling who had ventured outside the gates with Sora and the others. He also recalled that that the Halfling had made his cart available during the retreat to the keep, and that it had been instrumental in getting some of the wounded to safety.

Alleycat realized that some people dismissed Halflings out of hand because of their short stature. But he had known some in The Shadows, and had learned to respect their big hearts and competent ways. ~~Indeed, their small stature and elusiveness made them even more effective than some of their larger brothers and sisters at some of the jobs that we undertook,~~ he remembered.

The Waterdhavian waved to the Halfling. "Master Halfling -- I am sorry, but I never heard your name in all the hubbub -- please join us for the governor's planning session at the noon hour."

When Antru caught up with him and spoke about bringing the hot-headed Half-Orc into the group, Mekkar shrugged. "I am not sure about her. She is an eager fighter, no question about that," he mused. "But she will need to learn to control herself better than she did earlier today."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:32, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

Taria nods, "That is another way, yes. Effectively."

Sora nodded at the woman. "We haven't had the training you have, so please....keep it simple, expecially with Tarbaw. Think on the spell he used, and the description of Alaric and him breaching his mind...the more prepared, the better. Come with me - perhaps Tarbaw has a library that can help."

Sora, looking at the two men and grimaced. looking at Antru, she spoke the elven language. [Language unknown: "El er wiroan, na ntepe m e any ckckio wervirsom t whle cack chmoom whelatlar k fiwil si ritoal. N ck icaro i artillwit, ons pr malo est manprewhethi ho howiek."]

She turned to go to the governor. "Let me see about the loud mouthed lass - i want to talk to her in person before we make that decision, right now. Meet here five minutes before noon."

She then makes her way to the governor - hopefully she would het audience with the woman who almost ruined everything

Faim bows toward Alleycat and says,

"My name is Faim, I would be glad to join you. I have some plans of my own that may be incorporated."

He then puts away his journal and falls in line with the others.

Alleycat pursed his lip thoughtfully as he wondered what plans Faim could have that might involve tangling with a dangerous-looking Half-Dragon or a Kobold magicker of significant power. But he kept his thoughts to himself and nodded to the Halfling.

"Excellent," he replied. "We shall be glad to have you join us, provided that you do not shy away from blood and bare steel -- hopefully our steel and our foes' blood, but I have noted that Tymora is not prone to handing out Her boons to one side only."

After a short pause, he added "I answer to 'Alleycat', by the way."

The Waterdhavian craned his neck and looked around. "Also, I'm on the hunt for that big farmer who goes by the name of 'Bross'. Would you happen to have seen him lately? Since we got back inside the gates, I mean."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:17, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 197):

The scribes checked their lists, Bross' kin were not on it.

"They are not among the returned, but they were also not on the list of the fallen. Hopefully they left the festival before the attack"

was the best they could offer.

In reply to Sora (msg # 205):

"You may visit her. She is not welcome when we meet. Hargrin's swineheard friend is slower but has more sense. She will remain in the cell."

He looks at the nearest guard. "Hector, escort the lady to the prisoner and relieve Billy, he had family return from the festival and will want to see them."

Ned stands off to the side near Antru, watching quietly.

Bross asked after Taria's folk for her, (presumably gets the same, or similar, answers), then goes to share the "news".

Not knowing was... not agreeing with him.

[ooc: I figure this would get Bross in the others' vicinity]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:38, Tue 25 Jan 2022.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 211):

Before too long, Alleycat spied the man whom he was seeking, who had just stepped out of one of the keep's buildings.

"There he is," he muttered to Faim.

Raising a hand and his voice, the Waterdhavian called out "Hoi, Bross! Bross Tallcut!"

---

OOC: This assumes that Faim is still in Ac's company. If that is not the case, I shall cheerfully edit. :)

Hargrin had watched the prisoner exchange in frustrated silence, glad to get their people back but knowing the town would suffer for draining their treasury like that. And for what? What use had monsters for the currency of civilization? Then again, there had been that dragon- they were supposed to like treasure, right?

The dwarf turned away, disgusted, when GreySky charged out to 'challenge' them and almost upset the apple cart completely. If they did manage to salvage the situation, the rescuees would need seeing-to after their ordeal.

Thus it was the Antru found Hargrin in the infirmary as-predicted, checking over the freed prisoners with some of his brethren."Ah, Antru!" He raised a hand to wave briefly between patients, summoning what smile he could. He quite liked the colorful elf- and he seemed a dab hand in battle to boot. "Did I miss any more excitement?"

"You've need of more excitement?" I should think we all had enough." Antru manages a smile and lends a hand where he could. Not that he was much use for such thing. "Master Bitterbrew, it has been an interesting turn of events. The exchange went smooth enough. And the horde is moving on for the moment. Lady Sora has asked that we join Master Nighthill for a meeting around noon hour. I think she would like to meet near the gate a bit before then." He was being mater of fact about the information. His father had always said that Dwarves were plain spoken and had little use for flattery and charm. Having not been around dwarves often, Antru tried to act in accordance.

Bross, just off to go deliver the news [whichever it turns out to be], heard his name being 'bandied about' (as his aunt used to say).

It was Alleycat, who liked being called "Alleycat". Bross wasn't sure what to make of the man yet. And Faim (Who was actually named 'Faim') was with him. Something about Faim made a man think things over. He decided this wasn't much of a time to start picking favorites, and walked over.

He greets Alleycat with a cordial "Mister Alleycat, Mr. Faim. What news?" and a serious expression.

"Governor Nighthill will be convening a meeting at the noon hour to discuss what needs to be done next," Alleycat replied to Bross's question.

"We are trying to have all of us who ventured out with Sora to take part in the prisoner exchange in attendance. Sora has requested that we meet at the main gate shortly before noon."

"Plus, Antru is trying to find Hargrin, and I am to look for Melody. I am not sure of Catrina's status as of yet -- whether she will be joining us, that is."

"That said, have you laid eyes on Melody since we entered the keep?"

Sora simply nodded to Tarbaw and his orders, pleased that she was allowed to see the woman. She followed the guard to he cell, thinking what she would say

The meeting with the Governor made sense: "I'll be there."

"'Antru?' Oh, 'dumbox'.... He should try the temple- if he's not there, they'd know where he is..."

About Catrina, Bross (who was prepared to second her) nods, grimly. "Grim days. Leaving a strong fighter locked up as the place comes down about our ears... it doesn't seem wise. I may askthe Governor, myself..."

When asked about Melody, Bross (who never caught her name) figures out who they mean. "' Melody'. With the...?" [makes a spiraling gesture with one hand beside his head, indicating horns.] "We spoke once, during the fight, when she called me.... 'lover boy'?... but not since. I thought she was with you lot."

"She couldn't still be out there...?"
This message was last edited by the player at 05:04, Wed 26 Jan 2022.

"That's the one," Alleycat said when Bross made a gesture signifying horns on the head. "The red-skinned Tiefling."

"And aye, she was with us for a while -- there was a group of us who were headed for Hargrin's booth, in the hopes of sampling some of his brew, when the Dragon appeared. And everything went downhill after that, as you know."

"I believe that she survived the battle, but with all the smoke and confusion . . ." Mekkar shrugged his shoulders. "I lost sight of her, and have not seen her since I have been inside the walls of the keep."

The Waterdhavian grimaced. "Even if the governor's scribes are starting to make lists of the survivors, I feel certain that they would begin with the local people -- 'tis only right, after all. And I believe that she was a visitor to the area, come to town for the fair, like many of us. So I doubt that anyone would have made note of whether she has survived, or not."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:53, Wed 26 Jan 2022.

Faim nods, then speaks quietly to Allycat and Bross,

"That sums it. Listen, I have been thinking about this predicament, and I am no prophet and have not studied the tactics of war, though I have picked up a thing or two.

The way I figure it, there are one of two outcomes to all this. One, after they get what they want, they leave. Seiges are expensive, and unless they plan on trying to occupy this town as some sort of regional foothold, they already have gotten what they want.

But, that is assuming that the only thing they want is coin, which does follow a sort of logic, what with the dragon. On the other hand, if they wanted to completely destroy the keep, and lay waste to the rest of the town, they have created the ideal situation. They have concentrated all of the people here and drained it of its treasure. So, although they have nothing to gain in the traditional sense, the may also have nothing to lose.

I do not have a solution to this potential problem, but I do have an idea. Tarbaw mentioned a secret way out. I am thinking that during the next exchange I can secret myself out, maybe with Alleycat, he seems a sneaky chap, and infiltrate their ranks. I can magically disguise myself for a time, and I'm figuring I can make myself look like a kobold.

If we divine that they are going to attack, we can send a signal, or perhaps find some other way to cause them trouble.

Or, perhaps the rest of us, The Heroes of Greenest, or maybe The Greenest Heroes, or the Saviors of the Siege, I'm still work shopping the name, can leave through the passage to either be held in reserve for a flank, or to protect the way as an emergency exit.

If they just leave, anyone who has infiltrated them, or who can follow stealthily behind, can lead the others for an ambush, if such is desired. Or to burgle the burglars.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:36, Wed 26 Jan 2022.

In reply to Faim (msg # 220):

Alleycat found himself impressed with Faim. Obviously the Halfling had put a good deal more thought into their present situation than the Waterdhavian himself had.

"Good thinking, Faim," Mekkar said, with a nod of his head. In this instance, he meant what he said.

"I have no idea how this conference of the governor's will play out," he continued. "It could be that he already has decided upon a plan of action -- if so, I assume that he will explain it, and request volunteers."

"But if it is appropriate for us to give voice to our own ideas, I encourage you to do so."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:37, Wed 26 Jan 2022.

"Aye." Bross said, with a bit less solid footing (he heard the work 'workshop' in there, but it didn't seem to be about any guild-business Tallcut had ever heard of). He did visibly approve of 'burgle the burglars', though.

"I wish you luck of the sneaking- 'blending in' isn't for us all, of course." Bross continued to them both, sort of putting his hands palm up in a 'see?' gesture. (He didn't seem to be bragging. He did seem to be quite large.)

"I was talking to Billy the Neck. He's the guard with the..." (he squats his neck down, as if to squash it- he's apparently taken to visually describing people, today) "...good fellow. Anyway. He says there's but fifty guard in the town, but near on two hundred strong fighting hands in the militia. I can't picture a plan that doesn't have those kind of numbers in it, somewhere..."

He catches himself. "But as you say, Mr. Cat, that's for later. At the meeting."

"While we're finding folk...did you see Taria, on your way? I have... well, not 'news', but word to bring her."

"Taria?" Alleycat echoed Bross.

"I believe that she and Sora were discussing some magicker doings over in the direction of the main gate."

"That was probably, oh, . . . half an hour or so ago, so she might've moved on by now. Mayhap you can still find her -- but if not, I'm pretty confident that she'll be showing up for the governor's meeting."

Sora walked out of the keep after her meeting, chewing g her lip in thought as she walked absently. She thought of what was happening....the people here were looking to her for answers, for leadership.  Sora closed her eyes at the inner thought.

Things moved fast, but she was equipped for it.

She stopped in the shade of the wall and leaned against the wall....now she waited for the meeting.

There wasn't much time, so Bross made the most of it.

Thanking Alleycat and Faim, he took his leave.

Just three stops.
----

Shoulders forward, head-down, he moved on and inadvertently shouldered into one of the locals [This is my attempt to do the  keep Ned in the game" moment. Since this is Bross' first time 'meeting' him, it's gonna have to be vague, for a minute I'll try to 'fix it in post'.]


"Whoa- whoa, there. Careful. Sorry, didn't see you there.... you alright?" [If there's any more conversation, it'll go here.]
----
Tracing Taria down, he asked a short moment to talk to her.

"Pardon me, ma'am, but I took the liberty to ask after your family, when asking after mine." he begins, in a hushed tone. "They weren't among the captives, but neither were they found... otherwise. I hope your kin are safe." (This is clearly an important matter for him.)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:39, Fri 28 Jan 2022.

Bross will find Taria right where Sora left her, waiting nearby to the governor in advance to the upcoming meeting. She looks deep in thought perhaps considering the events that have transpired. "Oh, thank you for checking. I had no worries about them, I know they were home. I am more concerned about the morning. They probably haven't heard of the attack or the horde. They'll probably be packed up and on the road back to town just before dawn. If there are patrols of the drakes or kobolds, that could be an issue."

“Ah, now, I didn’t say I needed it, lad. Let’s not go tempting the Gods. And call me Hargrin- Brother Hargrin if you must.” Hargin grinned at Antru briefly before moving to the salient point. But… “Lady Sora?” He frowned slightly, trying to place the name. “Was that the lass translating for the Governor?” He wondered what she was Lady of, or if that was merely a courtesy title from the elf.

“Did she sign on with him, to be calling meetings on his behalf?” He asked with some confusion. “Not that I’ve anything against the lass, mind you.” He added hastily, thanking the Lady that embarrassment didn’t show as easily on his complexion. “Just seems a bit rude to barge in on the Governor on a stranger’s say-so, without his invitation.” Especially now, when Nighthill had to have much on his mind.


OOC: I don’t think Hargrin and Sora were ever actually introduced, as they first met in the combat. Likewise, he left the hostage exchange early, so he wasn’t present for Nighthill telling Sora to invite helpers to the meeting, and he’s thinking it’s a bit odd for her to be doing the inviting when it should be coming from his Governor. Feel free to catch him up :)

This message was last edited by the player at 18:23, Thu 27 Jan 2022.

"The Governor called the meeting. Said most of use who helped out there would be welcome. Lady Sora thought as much her self. We'd like to see what the Governor has to say. Based on the exchange, we aren't dealing with a simple raid. Most likely the Dragon is building up its horde, and the kobolds are its main source for that. Least those are my thoughts."

"Mine as well." Hargrin agreed grimly, chewing over Antru's words. That made more sense. "I'm certainly happy to lend what aid I may." The dwarf finished his quick exam of his current patient, a child more frightened than hurt, and turned him over to his parents for a generous amount of cuddling before pulling a colleague aside for a quick word. Then he started for the door, glancing back to make sure he wasn't leaving Antru behind.

Bross nodded in agreement with Taria and made appreciative noises at her assessment of her family's safety.

As they were right near the Governor, he excused himself quickly.

Two more stops.
----
Bross had never dropped a knee to anyone in his life....

Tracking down the Governor alone , he put on his best 'formal face' and said the most words at once he'd ever said to an official of the crown. He pauses to gather his words [I'm skipping some "..."s in this] and starts.

 "Governor Nighthill, I would ask for the release of Caterina GreySky for the battles ahead. If it pleases, I should say that- once she charged past me, and talking her down was no option- I was prepared to Second her. Not for pride, but to fight alongside her, on behalf of Greenest.

Possibly to bring her body back, should it have gone worse than that. Perhaps to die alongside her if it went worse than THAT.

She was brash, but she went first. A stranger here, to all of us, and she went first. I'd say 'you'll need that when the time comes', but the time has already come.

If you need a pledge of my good name, for her good behavior, I give it now." This was basically putting himself up as a human bail-bond, and they'd both know that.

... and he really hoped this wasn't one of those 'drop a knee' situations.
----
One more stop

[The last stop is the temple of Chauntea. Bross usually doesn't DO temples.]
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Fri 28 Jan 2022.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 225):

Ned seems surprised by the intensity of the bump. He looks up a bit unsure of the situation, then responds awkwardly when he realizes it was a mistake.

"Er ... yes, I well.. someone helped with the bolts. I was waiting to see if I could help with anything. I really should check ...on my pigs."

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 230):

The Govenor looks at Bross for a moment. He considers the man's rquest carefully.

"You are not the first to make such an offer. That woman placed me in a very difficult position. She is reckless. We must think before we react. We will meet, plan our next steps and then consider her situation. At this point, she will remain in her cell until I am confident that she will be gone from Greenest, and under appropriate supervision to prevent further folly that could come back on us."   

Bross looked Ned up and down, and made a snap decision.

"Hold on, for a moment, would you? We're going to meet with the Governor about what we're going to do, next- come in with me. I want to help out, too. They may have something for us.

Who knows, they might have nothing for a farmboy, and I'll come help you."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:31, Fri 28 Jan 2022.

In reply to Tarbaw Nighthill (msg # 232):

Bross blinked at the Governor, frankly surprised.

"Someone else offered their freedom as bond for hers? Pledged to go to prison in her place, if she did it again, in exchange for her release? I am... stunned. Who? May I ask?"

"If anything, that there's more than one should say it all, then. I will simply say that I offer this as a local- my good name, and the Tallcut name, would suffer, as I'm sure you know."

"And, to be honest- I've fought her. You'd be wise to have that turned on those raiders. With the injured pride of having lost once behind it... she just needs t'be pointed in the right direction, is all."

Edit: Color-fix and "Who? May I ask?" means something diff. from "Who, may I ask..."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:17, Sun 30 Jan 2022.

Antru follows along with Hargrin. "Cant say I've met overly many of your kind. So forgive me if I'm overly formal. My father used to tell me stories about how" He pauses as if searching for a word. "I'm not sure the best translation for the word. Stubborn would be the closest, though it doesn't convey the respect its meant as."

Sora, thinking on her own, watched as Bross spoke with the governor, saw Antru with he dwarf, even the dirty man helping. There was potential in these people....in herself as well. Perhaps she had the skill and power to draw it out of them - perhaps they were all destined for greatness.

The half elf stood up, knowing the time to meet was close.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 233):

I will help if you want, but won't meet with the Govenor. Smart people can say how I can help after he decides what to do.

In reply to Bross Tallcut (msg # 234):

"Lady Sora has spoken for her as well. She will stay in her cell for now. I appreciate your offer but I don't need someone else to blame for her foolishness. I just need to prevent further distractions while we assess the situation."

"Fair enough. Up for a small errand, while that goes on?"

[OOC: He's going to ask Ned to carry word to GreySky that Bross is 'trying his best' to get her freed.]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:44, Sun 30 Jan 2022.

"What do you mean?"

Bross asks him to take a short message to Catrina GreySky: "Bross is trying his best to get you freed."

"Um, Who is that?"

"Right. You know where the guards go, with the cells? There's a big lady in one of those, under lock'n'key. There'll be a guard watching her, maybe Billy, I don't know."

"If you could- I'm just asking- could you first ask the guard if its' okay to get a message to her? Her name's Catrina. The message is just 'Bross is trying his best to get you freed.'. That's it. I suppose if she has something to say, too, you could tell me, when you get back."

He paused. "You want a silver for it?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:49, Sun 30 Jan 2022.

"Er"

He looks at his bare feet. They are dirty and calloused

"um"

He admires Bross' perfectly maitained, custom, handcrafted masterwork footware.


"Er, um"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:43, Mon 31 Jan 2022.

"They'll never fit, you know."

(Sigh. Hands over a sufficient coin) "Take this, find the cobbler, ask for "brogues" in your size. Then bring them to me, I'll fix them up so they're actually good" (It was still faster than starting from just leather.) "Deal?"

He takes the coin and smiles.

"My... uh size?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:06, Tue 01 Feb 2022.

"Don't leave the cobbler until you find shoes that fit."

"Right, hmmm the cobbler's. Do, er, you think, you know, they are here?" 
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:24, Tue 01 Feb 2022.

"Will uh. I need um socks?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:26, Tue 01 Feb 2022.

"That's the beauty of brogues, you can do it either way. You planning to go up in The Cold or something?"



"Tell you what- when you go to deliver the message- you remember the message, you smart fella- you can ask the guard. There'll be a guard, I promise. He can tell you if a cobbler's about. If there isn't ask him for his boots, and I'll get him back later."

Ned nods "Bross is trying to er, um , get you free. Uumm, meet you back here."

Ned heads off in the correct direction.