Grandpre Academy (Second group)- DND 4E (IC)

[Dekkah]

May 23, 1500.

The headmaster office have not changed a bit since the last time you have been summoned there. The room is nicely decorated with many different weapons and armours of high quality, some of them no doubt enchanted. The place looks more like a room to plan battle than what one would expect of a headmaster office. In the middle of the room, there is a table with many maps of various training grounds and battle plans that will be used for other students today. The headmaster desk is in the right corner of the room and as usual everything on it is exactly at the same place as you remember, which makes you wonder if he really use it. The only notable change is the table on the right side. That one usually empty now support six packs.

Fernand Gallion, the headmaster of the Academy and head of the fighters, is standing behind the middle table. He is an old human, wearing a nicely decorated scalemail. With him are each leaders of your disciplines. To his left the huge dragonborn Medrash Zzlarsh, leader of the cleric and invokers, wearing a nice tunic with Kord symbol is standing tall. He look at you with respect and pride. On the other side of Fernand, Che Cosa, head of Sorcerer, is looking at the maps. He doesn't look up as you come in. The small one eye halfling with spiked orange hair seems to be oblivious to your arrival, being absorbed by the documents he is studying. In the shadows of the left corner of the room, Malaggar the dark elf is resting against the wall. He is the head of the rangers and you know him to be impatient with students and really quick to punish them. The last but not the least is the leader of the rogues, Tibius Malroche , a small and calm human. He was standing on your side of the table and as all you come into the room, he smile at you and says,
"Welcome, I hope your not too nervous. Today's the day for you all!"
Giving a wink and a smug smile to Visk, he walk around the table to stand with the rest of the teachers.

Fernand nod to each of you in turn as you come into the room. When your all standing behind the central table, he says,
"Good morning kids. I assume your all ready for your final exam. As you surely already know, this exam is similar to other training missions you did before with the exception that no teachers will go with you, assist and supervise it. You'll be on your own, each other responsible …."

At that, Che Cosa look up and interrupt Fernand with a serious face,
"To shorten the next 10 minutes of Fernand speach, use what we've thaught you not to get defeated. Dont let whatever you'll face win and use your gut to strangle and then hang you to a tree like I would if I were them."
You can see his one eye full of bloody veins look at you and your all sure he meant what he just said. Even the others teachers are a little shaken by the halfling outburst.

Clearing his throat, Fernand continues,
"Well, I guess you all get the warning, so here are your objectives. You'll be meeting with a caravan at the crossroads near the Green Forest (La foret Verte) tonight. You will report to Mark Shane, the leader of the guards and assist him all the way up to Torres. This arrangement is already made and we have received the money for that task. Also food and Inns are already paid for in that part of the mission. From Torres, you will travel to the town of Grandvents where you will meet with the nobleman Filass De L'aurore and give him this letter."
At that, he place a sealed letter on the table, bearing the Grandpre's Seal (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/Westernlands#5438469333546175954),
"You are to execute the job he will ask of you, up to the extent of your capacities. Don’t be bold like some have been 3 years ago. Know your limits and respect them."
With this some sadness appear on his old face.
You all remember that 3 years ago, one of the fighter died during the final exam.
"When your done, sire De L'Aurore should write a report of your actions and give you a payment to return us. Any questions?"

[Keler]

After what seemed like an eternity Dorn was finally ready to face Grandpre's final exam. He had spent the last few days taking great care in packing his adventure's kit as well as polishing and shaping his weapons. Now that he's in the headmasters office Dorn does his best to stand still and not fidget.

"About how long will the journey to Grandvents take, sir."

[Balricaso]

For the last few days, Marv has been worried that the final exam would involve sitting at a desk and recalling everything he's learned.
But now realizing he gets to go out into the world and do something, Marv immediately begins to loosen up and perform stretches before Fernand can even finish explaining the test.
Marv's only reply is to grin and briskly shake his head. No more questions, time for real adventuring!

[Dekkah]

DM
Fernand ponder Dorn question a couples seconds before replying,
"Should take you a little bit more than two weeks if all goes well. Maybe more if the caravan is really slow."
With that, Fernand take out a map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/Westernlands#5436305193319591250) of the country and put it on the table. He then trace a path with his finger on the map.
"You'll meet with the caravan here, at the cross road south-east from Grandpre. You'll then travel with them on the road toward Fort-Du-Col. From there, you'll go through the Neck Peaks (Les monts do col) and then the Black Marsh (Les marais noirs) up to the town of Villenoire. From there you'll help the caravan up to Torres. From Torres your on your own. I suggest you take the north road up to Bartos, then Grandvents."
Fernand look up from the map and add,
"Speaking of being on your own, these pack are to help you for the road from Torres and the travel back here."
Each pack contains 20 golds and one potion of healing (level 1) Shopping is possible at the academy before you leave, if you need some mundane stuff or rituals components.

[Shadow_Elf]

Sounds like a bag o' fun, says Ace sarcastically, shuffling his cards. Should we get goin', then?

[Dekkah]

DM
Che Cosa reply to Ace with an cheerful tone and a wicked smile, his head slowly tilting from side to side,
"That's the spirit boy!"
From his earlyer comment, you're all pretty sure he is imaginating Ace, being hung up by his guts in a tree, being tossed about by the wind.

Fernand will add,
"If you dont have any more quesitons, you're free to go whenever. If you leave within the hour and pass throught the fields, you should arrive in time to meet the caravan."

Fernand take a short pause to see if there is more questions, before concluding with,
"Remember, you represent the Grandpre Academy on that mission, be respectful and honour that name."
I'll make the game move forward in a couples hours - somewhere after dinner - to leave some time for those who havent reported in yet to ask questions if they want (or those who have more questions).

[finalepic]

Dect looks at the map thoughtfully. His eyes pause over the Neck Peaks.

"Are there any known bandits in the areas we're travelling through?"

Despite the question, Dect does not look the least bit worried. Rather, there's a faint look of challenge on his face. He's been in training for too long for some upstart outlaws to even begin to challenge him.

[Dekkah]

DM
Medrash answer Dect calmly,
"Not to our knowledge, unless of course you consider goblins and such as bandits. Then maybe in the Black Marsh you might encounter trouble you seek. Other than that, the road is the road. Bandit group can form up anywhere at any time, more so in these hard times."

[finalepic]

Dect sighs.

"I suppose that's the thing about bandits. They're unpredictable. No matter, they should be no issue regardless."

[Balricaso]

Alright! Lets get to it!
Marv grabs a pack and immediately heads to the door, throwing it open. He remembers his manners with one foot through the threshold. He looks back to the instructors
Thank you, everyone, for this opportunity. I promise you, I'll make you proud!
Marv looks at the other students
I'll be waiting by the door. If you take to long I'll have taken care of this adventure all by myself!
Marv grins ones again, given his current horrible burn scars and patchy beard, it's not the most pleasant thing in the world, but it gets the message across as he tromps out the door.

[Dekkah]

DM
Malaggars cold voice reply instantly to Marv's,
"Finaly! Someone with some good sense. You should follow his lead before I decide to go wait for you on the road and make Che Cosa dreams come true."
You can notice exasperation in his voice.
The other teachers do not appear surprised by Malaggar reply, you can even see a small knowning smile appear on Fernand face, as if he knew it would happen.


As I said before , I'll post the next step some time after dinner. I'll allow some time for the others to come in (also if you want to ask something still, you can try) and you can use time to talk among yourselves IC

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace grabs a pack. Travel light - there is no way to know wht Lady Luck will throw our way. I'll be ready to leave soon - I hope the rest of you can say the same.

The Sorcerer then turns to the instructors. May Luck smile upon you all, instructors. With any luck at all, we'll make you proud to call us adventurers. Ace then leaves the room to go to his own quarters, to fetch his walking stick and a few other odds and sods.

[Skinshifter]

Visk walks into the room behind her companions, less following them than studying them. Her face is placid, almost bored, until Malroche's wink, which brings both a frown and the hint of a smile to her lips. She listen's to the instructions silently, leaning against the wall by the door with her arms across her chest, her frown deepening in concentration.
After the last of her companions has retreived their pack, she strides forward, her whispy frame held high, confident in her every step, and takes the last pack. She finds Malroche's eyes and nods slowly as if to say You can count on me.
She looks down at the map and traces her finger along the route that Fernand pointed out. I like it. Should anything attempt an ambush in this terrain it will they who are walking into the trap.

[Keler]

"We shall not let you down" says Dorn to his instructors. He then walks up to the table and grabs a pack. "Lucky I packed the day before and will be able to leave at once." Dorn follows Ace out of the room.

[Shardan]

Baldric laughs with a loud guffaw, shaking his head, "Aye, Moradin has a sense of humor. I am now to protect travellers from people like me. I will have to teach them about the strength of Moradin and the proper way t' use it." He then examines the pack, especially the money within. "How much beer will this buy me to carry with us, I wonder. Anyone know what a keg runs?.. no.. too annoying to carry.. It'll have to be travelling whiskey."

[finalepic]

Dect looks over to Baldric's dillema.

"Perhaps something even stronger? It'd be a bit more expensive but easier to carry." He looks thoughtful for a moment. "If its strong enough, perhaps it could double as a medical supply in a pinch."

[Dekkah]

DM
When you’re all ready leave the Academy, there is still a couples hours left before noon. You take a small trail through the fields so you can reach the crossroad in time.
As you walk, you see the farmers working to prepare the fields. With the disastrous harvest of the last season, caused by early cold weather and winter, the farmers have to work hard to first clean the wasted crops and then prepare the lands.
You will travel the rest of the day, walking among some fertile hills and plains.
Around dinner time, as you come on top of a big hill, you get full view of the Green Forest. You can spot the crossroad a mile to the west. A couple miles directly to the south, you can see the caravan making its way north. There is five carts pulled by some heavy duty horses and about 10 traders. They are protected by slightly more than a dozen soldiers, all wearing a tabard with a black eagle.

They should arrive at the crossroad just a little bit after you.

When the caravan reach the crossroad, a burly man wearing an heavy scalemail and riding an warhorse notice you. He lead his horse ahead in your direction and tell you,
"Hello, are you our reinforcements from Grandpre? I'm Mark by the way, who's in charge of your group?"
Upon receiving an answer, he tells you, not wanting to waste time,
"Alright, just protect the rear of the caravan for now and we will discuss it when we rest. Send the two mens from the back to me, I'll relocate them."
He then address his mens,
Alright guys, lets move, I want to reach the camp spot before darkness falls.

Many people look at Dorn and Dect with some concern, but none openly doing anything about it. You can spot that they seemed to complain to Mark though, and after what you assume a couple complaints, he tell everyone loud and clear,
"Listen everyone, these kids have been sent to help me from Grandpre Academy. If they couldnt be trusted, they wouldn't had sent them. And no they aren't imposters, I knew there was an HALF-orc among them.
With that he give a nod to Dorn. This put an end to the direct complaints.
You will travel for two more hours up to the edges of the Green Forest.
As people prepare the camp, Mark approach your group,
"Sorry for the little incident, people tend to react badly with uncommon races. I must confess I am not exent to this, but still I trust whom sent you. I was thinking to put you up front for the rest of the trip. I asked who was to leader so I dont have to manage you six individually, but I can also mix you all with my soldier if you prefer so you can blend in more, but I think it will take some time for all of them to get used to your presence, mainly yours."
Mark end his sentence looking at Dorn and Dect.

A fire will be lighted and some soldiers will cooks some dinner for everyone. You eat with everyone. You also are incorporated into the watch for the night.

May 24, 1500
In the morning, the caravan depart quite early. The caravan enter Green Forest and you will walk the whole day within it. It is an extremly old forest. Some tree had to be removed to make the road, but other than that, the forest seems untouched by humanoid hands. You break camp early that day. Some of the soldier gather a hunting team, tentativly inviting Dorn and Visk to participate. Luck was on their side and they found good game and you can all eat some fresh meat that night.

May 25-27, 1500
The next day, you exit the wood after two hours of walking, just in time to get soaked by heavy rain. You will travel within plains, hills and some rare small woods. It takes three days of travel, under rain most of the time, to reach Fort-Du-Col on a muddy road that slowed the caravan quite a bit. You come into view of the Fort at dusk on the 3rd day. It is a small and old keep built just where the mountain pass start. It completly blocks the path to stop anything that would try to pass there. The keep can support around an hundred people. You get a well deserved warm and dry bed that night.

May 26-June 1, 1500
In the morning, you enter the Neck Peaks (Les Monts du Col) pass. As you do, Mark will tell you,
“Alright, the real job starts. If we are unlucky, the pass might have some nasty monsters awaiting us. If not, I doubt we will pass throught the Black Marsh without a fight. So keep you eyes open and weapons ready”.
Crossing the mountains takes two and a half day. The trip was uneventfull but still unpleasant. Some strange sound kept you awake most of the second night, but nothing showed itself.
Crossing the marsh is quite a pain. During the three and half day of travel, you had to push carts about 35 times to help them pass muddy spots. As you come into view of Villenoire, a town built on a very fertile small Island within the marsh. You can see that this little fortified town is used to defend itself. The high wood walls surrounding bear the marks of many assault, but are in good shape. Mark will come up to you all and say,
“You seem to have brought us luck! In my 12 years escorting convoy, it’s only the 4th time I pass both the mountain and marsh without a fight.”
At Villenoire Inn, you’ll learn from the locals that the marsh goblin clans that have been attacking them regulary seem to have left them alone lately. People think they are fighting among themselves. Most cheer and raise their mugs at that.
“Let these little bastards kill themselves!”
The tensions between the caravan and you, mainly the ones caused by Dorn and Dect, seem to have vanished at that point. You all helped them a lot and somehow gained their trust, or at the least some respect.

June 2-4, 1500
After some good rest, you all leave Villenoire. You still have to walk 2 hours within the marsh, but the road is way better than the one going to the mountains : there is bridges to help cross muddy pools. The rest of the 3 days to reach Torres are uneventfull. You’ll notice that the farmers are working really hard to prepare the land like at Grandpre. The big difference is that people have been affected way more by the failed harvest than in Bord-Eau area. Food is rare around these parts, and it shows on the population. As you arrive at Torres gate, Mark will talk with the guards and show his papers. The caravan will procced to the market, leaving each cart where they were headed along the way. After the last cart is delivered, Mark comes to you,
“Well done guys, thanks a lot for the hand, and the luck! If you ever look for a job, come see me, we always need some good hands. Of course, it isn’t as exciting as adventure, but it isn’t always as calm as this trip. Good luck.”
As you walk in the city, many beggers ask for some food. You can easyly see that not only the farms were affected by the hard winter, but Torres as well.
You still can find a nice Inn to refresh yourselves, have nice drink and celebrate. The food price is a little bit high, but it can be expected in the actual situation.

June 5-9, 1500
When you wake up your quite refreshed and ready for more travel. You leave Torres by the north gate. After a couple hours, the road reach the Grey Lake (Lac Gris) and start running along it. You can see many small boat with fishermens looking for some good catch. An hour or so after lunch, you cross the Gallon river, linking the Grey Lake and the Big Snake Lake (Lac du Grand Serpent). The rest of the day up to the foot of Iron Peaks (Les monts de fer) is quite boring.

The next day, you start to go west between the Iron Peaks and the Grey lake. Traveling under a blazing sun, you meet only one horseman. He ask about the road behind you, telling you that the road up to Bartos is quite safe, before kicking his horse forward. Bartos is a small town, living mainly from fishing and hunting. The Innkeeper is quite friendly to you all.

After a good night rest, you depart for Grandvents, again under a blazing sun. By noon, you can start to see some of the desert the north-east. Where times come to make camp, you've left the mountain side behind. You whiped by great winds coming from the desert, you find a good place a little bit into the woods to make camp. It grant some cover from the winds and you can see your not the first to use it.

Your woken up by some heavy but short rain. It didnt last long and before noon, your all dry by the hot winds and sun. A similar camp can be found at the end of the day to shelter you from the winds.

If possible, the winds are stronger the next day. Travel is hard and unpleasent. But after an hours or so after noon, the road start to be closer to the woods and some hills give much more cover from the desert wind. You can even find a farm or two, which indicate you must be near Grandvents. A couple minutes later, you can see the small town of Grandvents. It similar in size to Bartos, with a maximum of 250 people,and no wall protecting it. You can see the Inn of the "Sandy Hills" in the middle of the town. You can see some people doing the basic trades (smithing, carpenter, hunters...). Atop an hill directly to the north of the town, you can spot a nice mansion. A low fence is surrounding it and a man is working on the lawn around it.

Travel is finaly done.
Inn and food at Fort-Du-Col and Villenoire is paid by Mark.
Beer at Fort-Du-Col : 2 SP each.
Beer at Villenoire : 3 SP

The Inn at Torres cost :
Dinner : 6 sp
for the room (Include breakfast) : 7 SP
Ale : 3 SP each

The Inn at Bartos cost :
Dinner : 5 sp
for the room (Include breakfast) : 5 SP
Ale : 2 SP each

You have to spend 3 rations for the rest of the trip (2 more if you dont eat at the Inns).

What do you do?

Long post, sorry, but I condensed many days and wanted to present my world a bit to you.

PS : For strong alcool instead of beer : beer price X 2.
For wine glass : beer price X 4.

[Skinshifter]

Visk stops at the armory and purchases three cases of crossbow bolts before returning to her room In minutes she is wearing her oiled well-worn leather armor with a dagger strapped to a belt across the small of her back and her hand crossbow hanging at her hip. The entire way to the crossroads Visk follows several steps behind the others watching them almost broodingly.
During the introductions, when Mark asks who the leader is, Visk follows behind whomever steps forward and watches the man closely as he berates his men and later apologizes to the group, searching his face for any signs of insincerity while listening for any further grumbling among the caravaners. She spends each day following the caravan searching the terrain for potential threats, almost hoping for something to attack them; and each night hiding just outside the radius of the campfire, silently imagining hordes of monsters pouring into the camp, herself cutting them down one by one as they realize the error of their decision.
When the hunting party invites Visk to come hunting with them, she eagerly accepts. Even though she has little skill with hunting, she is confident that she will overcome this challenge as she has all previous.
At the inn in the keep Visk finds a corner table where she can watch the entire room quietly and eats her meal, drinking only water, politely ignoring any flirtations from the men of the town and caravan.
During the days crossing the mountain Visk is grumpy, not enjoying the lack of monsters, and lingers further behind the party than usual, almost as if she were pouting. During the second night Visk is jittery with nerves, unable to sleep for hoping that whatever is making the strange sounds will show itself--while trying to convince herself that she isn't scared witless.
At first Visk is resistant to the idea of helping push the cart, but after watching her friends struggle several times she steps in, hesitantly throwing her own strength against it. She quickly comes to enjoy the work, dirty though it is, and sleeps deeply the last night of the trip before Villenoire.
During the meal at Villenoire, Visk is dubious of the water supply in the town and will ask for a cider or other drink, but will probably succumb to the excitement of the toasting and take a beer, drinking it grudgingly.
During the three days toward Torres, Visk watches the toiling workers broodingly, often shaking her head violently as if trying to shake a particularly unpleasant thought. Once inside the town, she watches the carts stop at their destinations knowingly and a secret smile plays on her lips, even though her eyes are a complex mixture of distaste and comfort.
She grudgingly pays for the food and a room at the inn and eats in a secluded corner.
When the party happens upon the horseman Visk circles around to the opposite side of the street from him, watching him distrustfully, but she quickly disregards him.
Once inside Grandvents, Visk follows the party, trusting in their decision once in town, ready to aid them should they need it.
Passive Perception: 17
Insight Roll to Sense Mark's Motives and attitude toward the party: [roll0]
Untrained Nature check: [roll1]
Insight Roll to Sense horseman's attitude toward the party and search for signs of lying: [roll2]

[Dekkah]

DM
A soldier tried to flirt with her and a couple people at the inns offered her a drink, but most of the time people leave Visk alone during the trip.

When the hunting expedition came back successfull with 2 big deers, the hunters made a toast to Visk who lead them to the perfect hunting spot.
I Pmed you the check results Skinshifter

[Shadow_Elf]

The first day, Ace is largely silent, though he is quietly inspecting all of their traveling companions, and voicing his thoughts quietly to his friends. At nightfall, he decides to show the mercenaries some card tricks to lighten the mood, and asks Dorn to be his assistant, in an attempt to win the mercenaries' trust.

On subsequent nights, he'll play card games with party members or members of the caravan, or if no one is interested, play solitaire by himself. Whenever he plays a card game and has to decide something, he flips a coin instead of thinking about it, and does that. In any card game he plays, the coin flips seem to guide him very well. Additionally, he happily lights the campfire at night with his magic, to save their allies time and effort with the flint and steel.

He happily eats and sleeps at all the inns, though he avoids drinking ale on all occasions and drinks water, milk or juice, depending on what is available at each location. He is not nervous on any of the nights, even when he takes watch, figuring that if Lady Luck wants them to be ambushed and survive, they will, otherwise, they won't, and nothing he worries about his going to change that.

After they check in at Sandy Hills, he speaks to the group. I presume the mansion is where our big-shot employer lives? Perhaps we should give 'im a visit? he asks as they sit around one of the tables at the inn.

[Shadow_Elf]

((Oops, forgot my dice rolls. See spoiler for rolls:))

Insight to get a read on the mercenaries:
[roll]1d20+6[/roll[

Thievery to impress the mercenaries with his cards:
[roll0]

Passive Perception: 11

[Shadow_Elf]

((I hate to triple post, but I broke one of my die rolls. Sorry :smallfrown:))

Insight Reroll:
[roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
Ace card trick impressed the mercenary a lot and using Dorn as an assistant seem to have help a lot in making the mercenary group accept him quicker. A couple mercenary will play card with him the next night and during the trip,
"If it's just for fun though, sure. No offence mate, but we've seen how good you are with cards, I want to keep my money."


As you walk into Grandvent, most people look at you with mild interest, before resuming their work.
At this hour, the Sandy Hills is nearly empty. The main room is quite large for a small town Inn, having 20 tables and a long bar. In the right corner, stairs leads to the 2nd floor, to the rooms. You can see a small stage to the left beside a firepit. Behind the bar, a tall and thin man looks at you and smile,
"Welcome to the Sandy Hills, I'm Ben. What can I serve you?"
The only other client is a burly man with a huge mustache, wearing many layers of animal fur. He is drinking a beer and appears to already be a bit tipsy.
"Just take a table, I'll have your orders ready as soon as possible. Halda will go serve you soon."
At that, the Innkeeper walk into the kitchen.
He return quickly to his post and serve another beer to the man at the bar.
Five minutes later, a small and young human woman come into the room with your orders.

Inn services prices:
Bath : 8 SP
Food : 5 SP
Beer : 3 SP
Room : 5 SP

[Keler]

May 24-June 1
At the academy, Malaggar, the leader of the rangers, is known to be harsh, quick to anger and punish. He liked to provoke and use people feeling to make them loose control. Malaggar often insulted and made jokes about half-orcs, but by the time Dorn left he had learned to simply tune those sort of things out. So when the guards seemed to be concerned about having a half-orc with the caravan, Dorn, instead of taking it personally, worked to incorporated himself with the rest of the soldiers. He volunteered for watch, gathering food, and other various duties. By the time they reached Villenoire, Dorn was sure that he had earned there trust. He buys a round of drinks for the party celebrating a the safe journey so far.

June 2-4
At the Torres inn, Dorn pays for food and a room. He spend a little time asking if anyone has heard any news from Grandvent.

June 5-9
Although the journey was less then enjoyable, Dorn is happy that they got to Grandvent with little trouble. He celebrates by ordering a hot meal and an ale.

Streetwise for gathering information of necessary: [roll0]
Money spent: 3gp and 9sp

[Skinshifter]

During the toast for the successful hunt Visk mearly nods, holding herself as if nothing unusual had happened.

Whichever table the party chooses, Visk quickly grabs a chair that sets her so she can see both the door into the tavern and the stairs leading to the second floor while still being able to keep her eye on the bartender. When the woman appears at the table Visk orders a water, feigning a momentary lack of hunger. She watches the woman closely as she takes the others' orders.

[finalepic]

Dect was not bothered by the concerns of his race. It wasn't entirely unusual, and it didn't inhibit him from doing his thing, so it was moot. He was in fact so used to this kind of treatment that he barely noticed when people stopped caring. With or without, he carries on treating everyone exactly the same; with politeness, kindness, and just the faintest hint of judgement.

Dect pays for food and a room at both inns along the way. As the trip goes on, he very obviously gets more and more restless, waiting for an attack or battle or event or something to break up the monotony of travel. It never comes. He celebrates the end of the journey by partaking in a bath, followed by food, a beer, and a room for the night.

[Skinshifter]

Bluff check to disguise her pride bubbling over:[roll0]
Insight Check to gauge Helda's attitudes toward the party and her reaction to any mention of their employer: [roll1]

[Balricaso]

Marv tries his best to merely go with the flow of group, largely ignoring any point of contention.
Upon arrival in Torres, Marv immediately attempts to look up Jalbert Lune, to describe in great and exaggerated detail all thats happened since leaving Torres.
Streetwise: d20: 12; Modifier -1; Result: 11

[Shardan]

Baldric spends the time generally being talkative and genial, for a dwarf at least. He doesn't talk about much of anything specific, but from the way he carries himself, he makes it clear he doesn't care about anyone's race. He tries to get into theological arguments with Dect, probably losing to Dect's superior intelligence, but refusing to admit it as a loss. As time goes on, he picks out a few of the other guards to both talk more to and try and convert to following Moradin.

When it does come to drinking, he is often the first to partake, but for all his bluster, he is very careful about how much he drinks, usually happier to get others drunk around him. They're easier to convince if they're a little sloshed after all.

At Torres, he does get the room (and the breakfast that goes with it) but that night, instead if dining He buys a golds worth of bread and breaks it up to give to the beggars he can find, blessing them in the name of Moradin. During the the three days there, he only eats the breakfast that comes with the room and repeats the giving the bread to the beggars. He doesn't do this in front of the inn, so unless followed the others may not know about it. If asked why he is skipping supper, he'll make some excuse about being able to get drunk more easily on an empty stomach.

I've lost track of drinks, so I'll just assume 10 gp drinks and inns until town and spend 2 gp more on bottles of whiskey before we left (I'd still have one full one by this point likely) does this sound fair?

[Dekkah]

At Torres, Marv will leave the group for the night and come back in the morning to depart with you all for Grandvent.

Marv : You have no trouble to find Jalbert. He is quite happy to see you and listen to your stories and invite you for dinner. You can see he is quite happy and proud of what you've done so far. He offer you to use his house for the night so you can save the Inn cost (he have to work anyway - night shift).

During the travel, Baldric have many philosophical discussion with everyone. Some are receptive, other aren't at all, having strong beleif of their own, mainly in Pelor.
At Torres, beggars are numerous and Baldric manage to touch and help many people the night he is there.
Baldric : You stay only one night at Torres, 10 is a lot, but if you spend that much on food for beggars, it is ok.

[Dekkah]

Scrubbed for skinshifter loopback.DM
You all relax from the long travel, some of you taking baths, others talking, eating and drinking. As dinner time approach, people start to fill the Inn main room, mainly workers and their families. Most of them seem curious about you, but they still leave you alone. Among them, a pair of elves enters the Inn, they appears to be the town hunters. Seeing your group, they seem a little surprised by Dorn presence, but still smile and salute Visk, before going to a table.
Ben and Halda work furiously to serve everyone as more people come into the Inn. By dinner time, the Inn is nearly full and busting with laughers and discussions of every kind. Everyone seems to know each others, which leads you to believe that this isnt a special event, but commonplace in this town.
You also spot a middle aged man wearing some fine clothings as he enters the room. He his quite tall, with blond hair and a round belly.
As he walk toward the bar, passing by the smith table he ask him,
"Hello Nalbert, how was your day? Are the kids feeling better?"
The burly smith stand and shakes the mans hand,
"It was a good day Filass, their fever finaly broke down."
With a smile Filass continues toward the bar. He order some wine and discuss with the the Innkeeper. After a couple minutes, the Innkeeper give a nod your way and the nobleman turn around looking at your group. He give you all a smile, stand up and walk toward your table.
"Hello travellers. I am Filass De L'aurore, mayor of this town. Ben told me your came into town this afternoon. What brings you to our small town? The traveler that use this road usually are merchants, but you look more like adventurers. "
His tone so far his hearty. He lean a little bit to the table and lower slightly his voice before he adds,
"If so, I might have a job offer for you, since the group whom I first offered the job doesn't appear to be intrested."
You can note some frustration and that he is quite unhappy with whom he first offered the job.

[Skinshifter]

After they check in at Sandy Hills, he speaks to the group. I presume the mansion is where our big-shot employer lives? Perhaps we should give 'im a visit? he asks as they sit around one of the tables at the inn.

Yeah, about that... Visk says in reply, standing from the table. She makes her way over to the bar and sits down motioning for the bartender. If he asks her if there is a problem she will smile and shake her head slowly; if he asks her if she needs a drink, she will lift her glass of water in response. Either way, she will lean in toward the man and in a conspiratorial tone say, So. Tell me about that mansion. Who lives there?

Diplomacy roll to influence bartender to talk to her:[roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
Ben come to Visk,
"Anything you need miss?"
When Visk lean toward Ben answer with a smile,
"Well it is Count Filass De L'aurore house. He is our mayor, and a really good one I might say. He surely will come eat dinner tonight if you want to meet him, or he is probably home right now if you want to meet him right away. He do like to meet people who come by our town."



Your roll doesnt appear to have worked (I cannot see the result) SO I'll roll it here :
Visk Diplomacy :[roll0]

For thoose at the table, you couldnt easyly hear Visk question (unless you've gone with her), but the Innkeeper didnt really lower his voice, so you heard him.

[Skinshifter]

Visk will engage the innkeeper in conversation, pressing the man to talk about the mayor, what kind of man he is, that sort of thing; about the town in general, and whether adventurers often come to the town. She doesn't say much while the man talks, just toys with her glass of water and adding the odd comment where necessary.

[Dekkah]

DM
As Visk discuss, you all can hear the innkeeper describe Filass. He is a kind man, caring much for the town. He also have good ideas and built a nice cooperative community. Filass nobility come from way back (many generations) and the man take great pride in it.

The town lives mainly from the land and the forest. They share and help each other, exchanging services is as good as money between the townfolks. There is little troubles for them. The area is quite safe. The only touble they've got recently, was a kobold attack three month ago. The last attack before that was like five years ago. They are blesssed with good land and mainly get food from the forest. Because of that, they didnt suffer much from the early winter, at least not as much as others.

Adventurers dont come really often here. Most use Yarten road when going north. Only the merchants use Grandvents road to get from Torres to Pifville area. It have been around 5 month since they saw an adventurer.

[Shardan]

Baldric hmms to himself, "A town like this I once mayored.. as it were. It seems Filass is doing a much more proper job of it than I ever did. I would very much like to meet the man.. not to mention if he be our employer"

[finalepic]

Dect sighs at hearing the area is a relatively safe one. "I wonder what we're being hired to do, then."

[Skinshifter]

Visk thanks the bartender with a gold coin and aks him one final question before heading to her room for a bath. You said the mayor will come to the inn tonight?
As she passes the table where her comrades are sitting she nods and gestures upstairs, then disappears, intent to wait out the rest of the afternoon in cleansing water.

[Dekkah]

DM
You all relax from the long travel, some of you taking baths, others talking, eating and drinking. As dinner time approach, people start to fill the Inn main room, mainly workers and their families. Most of them seem curious about you, but they still leave you alone. Among them, a pair of elves enters the Inn, they appears to be the town hunters. Seeing your group, they seem a little surprised by Dorn presence, but still smile and salute Visk, before going to a table.
Ben and Halda work furiously to serve everyone as more people come into the Inn. By dinner time, the Inn is nearly full and busting with laughers and discussions of every kind. Everyone seems to know each others, which leads you to believe that this isnt a special event, but commonplace in this town.
You also spot a middle aged man wearing some fine clothings as he enters the room. He his quite tall, with blond hair and a round belly.
As he walk toward the bar, passing by the smith table he ask him,
"Hello Nalbert, how was your day? Are the kids feeling better?"
The burly smith stand and shakes the mans hand,
"It was a good day Filass, their fever finaly broke down."
With a smile Filass continues toward the bar. He order some wine and discuss with the the Innkeeper. After a couple minutes, the Innkeeper give a nod your way and the nobleman turn around looking at your group. He give you all a smile, stand up and walk toward your table.
"Hello travellers. I am Filass De L'aurore, mayor of this town. Ben told me your came into town this afternoon. What brings you to our small town? The traveler that use this road usually are merchants, but you look more like adventurers. "
His tone so far his hearty. He lean a little bit to the table and lower slightly his voice before he adds,
"If so, I might have a job offer for you, since the group whom I first offered the job doesn't appear to be intrested."
You can note some frustration and that he is quite unhappy with whom he first offered the job.

[Keler]

"Probably clear out those kobolds. " says Dorn answering Dect's question. " And I was worrying that we weren't going to see any action."

"We are in fact adventures, more precisely were students from Grandpre (hands letter to Filass). I've heard your having some trouble with kobolds lately, I'm sure we would gladly get rid of them for you.

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace tips his bowler hat to the mayor as he introduces himself. As my companion explained, we are indeed from Grandpre academy. Whatever the job is, our teachers want us to take it, so I suppose we'll take it, he says, his voice slightly sarcastic. He shuffles his cards somewhat subconsciously as he speaks. So, pray tell, what, as luck might have it, are we going to have to do, my good sir?

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass's smile vanish from his face upon hearing you're from Grandpre, being replaced with sings of irritation. After a couple seconds, while Ace try to reassure him, his face return to some neutrality with a faint smile. He takes the letter, inspect the seal before breaking it. He then read the letter, and reply smiling again,
"That is an interesting idea, lets go discuss this buisness at my home if you dont mind. I'll go warn Ben to keep my meal on the oven for now."
Filass doesn't wait for you to reply and go say a couple words to Ben, which nod and and return a smile.
You all know his last smile he gave you is a mask for his displasure.
If you decide not to follow him (or keep him there. If so next part wont happen (dont read it) and I'll post what will lhappen instead.

Sir De L'aurore will lead you silently to the mansion you spoted when you came into town. The ground around it is beautiful : the lawn is well trimmed, there is patches of flowers and bushes and a couple nice small statues.
As you enter then house, you find yourselves in a huge hall. It is nicely decorated with statues, paintings, olds armors and weapons. The house butler come into view quickly. He's a small and thin man, wearing a black and blue suit.
"Good night Sir, I see we have some guest."
"Good night Gaston, we will retire to my office. Bring us some refreshments please."
Filass lead you to his office. It is also well decorated, mainly with banners and paintings. One of the painting is impressive. It is 5 feet tall by 12 feet long and represent a battlefield and appear quite old.
Filass move behind his desk and says with a serious tone,
"Take a seat."
There is 3 sofas and 2 chairs. Gaston comes into the room as you sit and offer you wine, beer and some bread.
"Thanks you Gaston. I am sorry about my rude manners earlyer. It's no excuses, but I sent the request to Grandpre three months, three months ago. And they didnt reply to say they accepted it or not. And all this waiting to use my request as", Filass then check the letter for exact words,"final exam."
He then take a pause, scratching his chin looking at you as if he was evaluation your potential.

The underlined word are in a tone that shows some disappointment. He appears to wait for you to say something.

[Shadow_Elf]

((These actions are assuming no one objects to leaving the inn. I will spoiler this in case anyone objects to following him to his home.))

Ace takes one of the seats on a sofa, and when Gaston enters he graciously declines any food or drink, having already partaken at the inn. Please sir, do not let the choices of our instructors reflect on your opinions of us, or our talents. I assure you, my companions and I can handle your job, whatever it may be - do not be fooled by the fact that we are still technically students of the academy.

Diplomacy, to try and calm the mayor's mood, and insight to examine his character and sense his motives:
Diplomacy:[roll0]
Insight:[roll1]

[Shardan]

Baldric doesn't refuse the move to the manor house, though he is probably the slowest to get up and follow, offering a short blessing to the innkeeper and his children before heading to the door.


Baldric grumps, "I am sorry you are having such a problem with the acadamy, but let me say this. I am a servant of Moradin first. A dwarf second... student of the acadamy somewhere on down the line. The beuracracy there is to blame, not us. We are here. If'n there be a job that needs done, we'll do it. I did not set out on this path for a grade, but for the glory of Moradin. So tell me. What is this mission?.. "

He takes a mug of beer and hunk of bread and settles on a sofa rather heavily and listens.

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass relax a bit and reply,
"Your right, I am sorry. As they say, dont kill the messenger. Well, I would had prefered more discretion, but let me guess, they didnt tell you this as well."
A small smile appear on his face as he shake his heads in half-disbeilief and half amusement.
"Well this can be still salvaged I guess. As you heard some kobolds attacked us three months ago. What I need is that you recover some document that got stolen by the Kobold 3 months ago. I know they might have destroyed them, I sure hope they haven't, but I want to at least try to have them found. They are pretty old and signed by Frederic Auguste, you cant miss them if they still have it. Also, they took our original family banner. I'd like it back as well if you find it. It look like this one, but with some oak tree seeds instead of the three suns."
Filass then point a banner (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/Westernlands#5444816379057344194) hanged on the wall.
"I'd like the main goal to stay between us. You can say your looking for some action and that I asked you to get rid of the kobolds. You can deal anyway you want with the kobolds, I dont really care, they usually leave us alone and cause very little trouble. Any questions?"

When your done with Filass, we will enter a skill challenge. I'll post more info on how I'll run it later in the OOC thread

[Balricaso]

Hearing about some genuine adventure afoot, Marv stuck 2 steps behind Filass on the way to the office.
Evaluation or not, this here sounds like an adventure worth undergoing. We'll get your papers and banner back before you can finish waving goodbye as I go!
Marv looks at the other students in the office.
Riiight?
Marv energy and eagerness to get to real adventure work is palpable; He's barely controlling the urge to just burst out the door and track the kobolds down himself.

[Shadow_Elf]

We'll handle those kobolds, sir. Anything else we should know, 'afore we head out? Ace looks to his companions, signaling that if they have further questions, now is the time to ask them.

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass smile at Marv enthousiasm and you can even some releif and hope in his demeanor.
To Ace he reply,
"Well I didnt really put much interest in the kobold attack investigation sadly, I found out later that they found and stole the papers. I know 2 young mens died protecting the village, Dan Filion and Steeve Daucht, we did some nice funerals for them. Our sheriff, Malcom Beausejour did most of the investigations."

Filass look around if there is more quesitons.

I'll wait for all of you to have posted your satisfied (as Balricaso and Shadow Elf did) before moving on or tommorow morning - whatever comes first.

[Skinshifter]

Visk is leaned against something in the back of the room and nods quietly to herself. Six five-year students of Grandpre are going to be better for you than any group of six men you could get together from any town you could contact. Better late than never, she says just loud enough to be heard but quietly enough that she remains almost hidden behind her companions.
I'm sure you would like these papers brought back with discrection?

When everyone has left the room, Visk will nod at the mayor, her face placid, and follow silently after her companions. Last to enter, last to leave.

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass nod to Visk,
"Yeah, I would appreciate as to why I'm paying you, which is to find the papers. Just say your looking for the kobold to take care of them or something like that."

[Keler]

After the group leaves the house Dorn addresses the group "We should probably talk to the sheriff and see if he has an idea of were the kobolds are."

Until then, Dorn will leave most of the talking to the rest of the party.

[finalepic]

Dect says nothing meaningful to the mayor.

"If he has nothing useful, maybe the people who live on the outskirts will be more helpful. I'm sure they're the more harassed group here."

[Skinshifter]

Visk nods silently and fingers her crossbow, eager for some danger.

[Shardan]

Baldric listens and nods. A crusade against marauding kobolds would raise Moradin's name quite well. He doesn't speak up, simply sipping at his beer and listening to the request. He nods in agreement to it and rises to head back out with the others.

[Dekkah]

DM
After seeing that your out of questions, Filass will say, standing up and shaking hands with each of you,
"Alright, let hope luck is on your side. I'll go eat diner now. I have to leave for Deserte town early tommorow morning, so if you have more questions, come see me tonight at the Sandy Hills. At worst, I should be back un a few days."
He escort you outside and walk to the Inn.
The town streets are empty and silent.
As you approach the Inn you can hear that the party is going in full inside.
Inside, an old man is on the stage, singing a song. Most of the people are singing along, the rest are chating heartyly. Filass go order is meal and go sit with tall and strongly built man that appears to be the town sheriff. He is quite alert and appear to be observing everyone in the room.
Most of the townfolks are still is in the room.

I assumed you'll go to the Inn.
What do you do ?

[Skinshifter]

If anyone tries to go and confront the sheriff while in the inn, Visk will grab their arm and say just loudly enough to be heard over the din of the room, Now may not be the best time to talk to him about our . . . problem. It's probably the best to introduce ourselves and keep it light. We can go talk to him in private tomorrow, maybe.

[Shardan]

When we are alone, or at least can't be overheard, Baldric nods, "Aye. tis a bit late to begin hunting the forests tonight anyway. However, I have afeeling more is at hand than is being told. Visk. Can you read lips.. or if not, can you get close enough to listen and not be noticed. If something be amiss, I'd like to know ahead of time. If they are just making small talk, then mayhap I'm just paranoid. We'll plan to speak with the sherriff after breakfast in the morn, I think."

[Skinshifter]

For a moment surprise grips Visk's normally impassive face at Baldric's suggestion, but she quickly regains controll of herself. I was . . . I was thinking the same thing
Bluff check to hide both her surprise and embarrassment at not coming up with the plan herself: [roll0]

If the room is well lit:
Visk will try to make her way to a table close enough to the mayor and sheriff that she can easily see their faces but far enough away that she won't be seen watching them.
Perception check to read the mens' lips: [roll1]
Insight check to read the mens' reactions to one another: [roll2]
Stealth check to remain unnoticed: [roll3]

[Dekkah]

DM
Visk discretly position herself and listen into the conservation.
During that time, the party go on. People sing along with the old Marcel, the town entertainer. After about an hour the crowd start to thin. From that point, in about half an hour the room empty itself. Filass is one of the last to leave, giving you a nod ,
"Good night. Have a nice night."

Ben and Halda start to clean the place.

I should post the morning tommorow.
PMed infomration to Skinshifter

[Dekkah]

DM
June 10, 1500
In the morning, the Inn is quite empty. There is Ben behind the bar and Halda serving the two elves you saw yesterday. They are eating breakfast. They wear some camouflage clothing and you can spot longbows against the wall beside their table.
Three more mens are sitting at a table and are chating while eating. You recognise one of them as the town smith.
Alone at the bar, at the same spot he was yesterday is the moustache man wearing furs. He is eating slowly and seems grumpy.
I seven more people are eating as well, one of them the town smith, the other you can't really tell.
When Ben see you come down, he tell you,
"Take a table, breakfast is uncluded in the room free."

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace comes down into the bar room yawning, his cards fluttering between his hands back and forth. Good mornin', sir. Whatever you're cookin', it smells wonderful. He then sits down at a table and begins playing solitaire, waiting for breakfast and his companions.

[Dekkah]

DM
As you sit and wait for the more lazy one to rise, Halda bring you some breakfast : bacon and eggs, served with some bread.
The smith, being done stand up and salute the Innkeeper,
"Good day Ben, time to get to work."
A minute later, the sheriff enters the room. He scan the room, noding to you as salutation and go sit at a table. He order some food.

[Shadow_Elf]

Thank you kindly, ma'am, says Ace, tipping his hat to Halda as she brings his food. When he finishes, he looks to the innkeeper and smiles. My compliments to the chef!

He then stands up and approaches the sheriff's table. May I sit? he asks as politely as he can.

Diplomacy, to come off as an okay sort and impress the sheriff so that he may sit and talk with him: [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
As you approach him, he stands and extend his hand and give you a rough handsahke,
"Sure, take a seat. I am Malcom Beausejour, Sheriff of Grandvents. "
He sit down and resume his breakfast, listening to you. You've got his full attention.

The diplomacy check will be used for the whole discussion - unless you want to try something else or probe him more for something he want to hold up

[Shadow_Elf]

((I'm not sure if you want to hold this discussion in spoilers or not, so I'll just assume yes (since the rest of the party isn't present) until told otherwise))
My evidently exhausted companions and I were thinking of dealing with your unfortunate kobold problem. I was wondering if, maybe, you 'ad any information on them? Our strategists would certainly like to know of their tactics and such, or if they have any particularly troublesome allies or pets. The Vistani smiles charmingly. Don't worry about answering quickly - I don't want to interrupt your breakfast overmuch.

[Shardan]

Baldric rumbles and trudges down the stairs, stretching and yawning. He stops at the base of the stairs and tilts his head to get that last crick out of his neck. He trudges over to the bar for a morning mug of mead and breakfast. When he sees the conversation with the sherriff already in motion he heads over to the table and joins them, "Hoy. Morning. I didn't miss anything, have I?"

[Skinshifter]

Visk makes her way down the stairs already fully composed, her gear in tow, hanging from a hand at her side. She scans the room and after seeing Baldric and Ace already talking to the sheriff makes her way cautiously toward the pair of elves. She stops at a safe distance, hoping to catch their attention without being rude and asks in a polite, almost reverant tone, Mind if I take my breakfast with you two this morning?

[Skinshifter]

Diplomacy check to impress the Elves: [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
Malcom is about to say something as Baldric join the table, Malcom stand and say,
"Good morning sir dwarf, take a seat. I am Malcom."
Malcom sit down before continuing,
"So, you want to know more about the kobolds, I guess your planning to hunt them down. A good thing for us. The Daucht and Filion families will sure be happy that their sons get avenged."
He eat some bacon, then continues,
"Well, I did some research after the attack. It appears that Deserte got hit by the same kobolds a month before us. We know because the few they managed to kill we're bearing the same tatoo than ours: A green three fingered paw.. The attack was mostly the same : little casualties and lots of looting. I sent a letter to Yarten, they haven't been attacked, but they know the clan. Their camp should be located somewhere north of the Green Peaks (Les monts Vert), if we can trust the elven city letter that is. During the attack, the kobolds mainly routed the villagers away from their house. Only two of our young mens died, mainly because they didnt retreat quickly enough. The kobold left south, into the Ter'Yav forest."
Malcom notice Visk going to sit with the elves and give a nod so you notice them,
"Our town hunters did follow their tracks for some time, they might be willing to show you. You also may ask Herrick the trapper, he knows the wood quite well too." pointing the mustache man at the bar.


One of the elves notice Visk and nod to her. As she ask to join them, he extend his hand offering a seat,
"Well met miss, I am Kalev, this is Lelmil. I heard your adventurers, what bring you to our small town?"
Ace Diplomacy provide one Success.
Success :1 Failure :0
Visk Diplomacy check will be used for the whole discussion (when it matters).

[Balricaso]

Marv comes down the stairs looking fully prepared as though he hadn't even bothered to sleep last night; The gleam in his eye says he fully envisions glorious battle will take place today, as if the kobold lair were right outside the inn.
Making his way to the door, he is at last given pause.
Ooo...breakfast

[Skinshifter]

Visk bows respectfully. Kalev, Lelmil. I am called Visk. She sits down, smiling fit to split her face. My companions and I are from Grandpre Academy, we were sent here at the request of the mayor. I like your bows, there, she says, nodding toward the longbows leaning on the wall. Much more impressive than mine.

She smiles demurely at her attempt at humor, pausing to attempt to read the elves' reaction to her.

insight check to sense the elves' reaction to her: [roll0]
Perception check to attempt to hear conversation with sheriff: [roll1]

[Shadow_Elf]

Thank you kindly for your time, sheriff. One last question - did you see the kobolds fight, at all? Or perhaps do you know someone who did? My companions and I would like to know something of the martial threat arrayed against us.

[Dekkah]

DM
Malcom nod to Ace,
"Yeah I did fight them. They rely more on sheer number than skill. They have some lizard pets and use crude weapons, javelins and pikes mainly, some short swords too. There is some of them that used sling with some clay pot that contained some sticky stuff."



The elves with Visk seem oblivious to her attemp at humor, or simply do not like it. They are serious and continue to eat they meal, waiting for Visk to continue.

As Marv sit at a table, Halda bring him some food.

[Keler]

Dorn was ready to go. He already had donned his armor and eaten breakfast in his room. Not wanting to crowed the mayor, he takes a table a little away and waits for Ace, Visk, and Baldric to finish up.

[Shadow_Elf]

Thank you again for your time, sheriff. I think I will speak to Herrick, the trapper, and see if he might be willing to give us a little guidance as to how to find these weaselly beasts. He tips his hat to the sheriff again, stands up and walks over to Herrick, the fur-clad trapper.

He tips his hat in greeting and inclines his head. Good morning! I am given to understand that you are Herrick, the town trapper? The good sheriff told me you might have some insight into the location of our scaly kobold quarries? He laughs a little. Forgive my manners! I am called Ace. May I sit?

Diplomacy, to conduct the conversation: [roll0]
Insight, to see how best to talk with the trapper and to determine his general disposition: [roll1]

[Dekkah]

DM
The burly man look at you and nod,
"I'm Herrick. So ya wanna go and get ya some koblods eh? ?"
He take a good look at you, as if evaluating you.
"Wel' fer 10 golds I can show ya where they camped right after the attack. Kobolds wer' many and left some good traces. Of cours', most traces prob'bly faded by now, but I can show ya which way they'v gone from ther'. What do ya say?"

Insight sent in PM.

[Skinshifter]

Visk clears her throat awkwardly and continues. Well, my companions and I are going out into the forest today after some kobolds we heard attacked this town and I was wondering if you could offer us any help in that regard.

[Dekkah]

DM
Kalev, keeping the same neutral and serious face ask Visk,
"Why do you want to find these kobolds?"

[Shadow_Elf]

Would you, perhaps, play a card game with me? I am a fledgling player myself, no doubt nowhere near as experienced as a wise man such as yourself. If you win, I'll pay you your 10 gold, in full, for your services. If I win, you show us the trail because you're a good man who wants to see the deaths of his friends' sons avenged.

Bluff, to mask the fact that Ace is an experienced card player:
[roll0]
Diplomacy, to convince him it's a fair deal:
[roll1]

[Dekkah]

DM
Herrick eye you suspiciously at first, but let himself get convinced he can win it all.
You play some round, planning to keep the illusion and slowly but surely beats him. But he surprise you, being a decent player himself, but he lack some experience and do a mistake that let you win it.
"Bah!! Alrig't I loose. Jus' tel' me when yar ready, I hav' ta go check som' trap ther' anaway."
You can clearly see he is pissed, but you dont doubt he will keep his word.
He resume his meal mumbling to himself.

Success :2 Failure : 0

[Shadow_Elf]

Thank you kindly, my good sir! Must've been Beginner's Luck - never have I won such a close game! He tips his hat to the trapper once again and smiles disarmingly, and the walks over to where Dorn, Marv (and presumably Baldric) are sitting.

My friends, I have secured us the aid of this town's grumpy but honest trapper in our search for these kobolds, he says in hushed tones so that only his companions around the table can hear. And I got some information on their combat abilities from the sheriff. Not bad for a morning's work, eh?

[Skinshifter]

Visk smiles calmly. The mayor has hired us to find them, to avenge the attack on the town and to attempt to prevent any further raids. She turns and watches Ace playing cards with the trapper and frowns slightly, growing frustrated with how ineffective she is at this.
We don't want to impede upon anything you would otherwise be doing today, but do you think you could help us? I'm sure that there are few that know these woods and their denizens better than the pair of you.

[Shardan]

Baldric remained quiet, letting the others talk, merely listening, cataloguing what he hears. He finishes his breakfast watching the others talk to their perspective crowds, thinking to intrude now would only hinder matters.

[Dekkah]

DM
Kalev hesitate for a coupe second, before shaking his head and reply,
"This is not a good idea. These kobolds leave us alone most of the time. We have been watching our hunting grounds border since the attak, and there is no traces of them since. The attack was a sad thing, mainly the death of the two mens, but I wont take the chance to stir their ire.
I am sure your intentions, and Filass's, are good, but I dont agree and wont take part in this. I hope you'll have the good sense to either leave them alone or at least lead them away from our town, or any town, if you have to retreat."
At that, he takes his last bite and they stand up. They pick up their equipment and nod to Visk,
"Good day and may Corellon's grae protect you... whatever you decide to do."
They pass by Ben, pay him and nod to him and leave the Inn.`
This is the result of the diplomacy.
Success : 2 Failure : 1

[Skinshifter]

Visk sits in stunned--but not totally surprised--silence for a long while, picking at her food until it is gone. Finally she stands and walks toward the front door of the inn with her back slouched, slightly, her face an unreadable mask. As she passes her companions she grumbles in a tone that sounds like a pout, Sorry. I should've left that to you.

She will be waiting, leaned against the wall right outside the front door with her arms crossed over her chest as soon as everyone is ready to leave.

[Balricaso]

Marv announces he is done with his breakfast with a mighty belch, drawing every eye in the inn to where he sits, surrounded by cleaned plates and empty mugs.
I think that'll do.
He looks at Baldric and gestures to the door.
I think Visk has the right idea. We should get going!
And with that he heads out the door.

[Keler]

"Don't worry, im probably a better tracker then him anyways"

Nature: [roll0]. Edit: Darn, anyone who wants to try to assist is welcome.

[Shadow_Elf]

We must await the arrival of our Deva friend. Lets not get to hasty and spoil good Ben's hospitality! Come, sit at the table, we can discuss out battle plans, says Ace, motioning for his over-eager companions to come and sit back around their table. Ben, my good sir! A glass of water, please, says Ace to Ben politely, with a smile and a nod, before turning back to his companions.

[Dekkah]

DM
You all finish your meal around the same time as Herrick does. He then stand up and come to your table.
"Wel' are ya ready al'ready? I hav' som' work to do. Let mov' out."
You all get outside and gather around. Herrick leads you south into the woods.
"Tha kobolds gon' south fer a day, so let walk."
From time to time, he change direction to check some traps and gather some animals he got and reset the traps. After about a days of travel, before dark, Herrick stop and look around.
"It's aroun' here som'where. We'll hav' ta look around. We need ta find a camp area."
You then all spread and start to search around. Dorn quickly find a small cleaner area with traces of a big camp with three firepits. The grass just started to recover. A week or two and no traces would have been left of this.
Just before the sun set, Dorn also manage to find the path the group took when they left that camp. They have gone south-west and Herrick confirm it is the same path he saw months ago. The night is fast approaching and Herrick propose to make camp here. He tellls you he will stay with you for the night, but at dawn he will leave for Grandvents.
"Can't help ya from her' anaway. I don't know tha woods from her'."
The night is uneventful, but some heavy rain start to fall in the morning. You know that following the few tracks left will be harder with the rain.

In this situation I accept a group roll, and take the highest - wont be the case when you track something (which will be a single roll)
Ace Perception : [roll0]
Visk Perception : [/B][roll1]
Marv Perception : [/B][roll2]
Dect Perception : [/B][roll3]
Dorn Perception : [/B][roll4]
Baldric Perception : [/B][roll5]

Success : 3 Failure : 1
I assumed you stayed for the night (so I could set up the next morning). You still can do anything else you want at the camp. If you want to tracks , someone have to volunteer a perception. You might want to try something else too ;) up to you to decide.

[Skinshifter]

When the group decides to stay the night at the campsite Visk searches the perimeter of the campsite for a tree with low enough branches to allow her to climb it but with foliage thick enough to hide her from anything heading toward the camp. She will insist vehemently to take the first watch from here, looking down on her companions.
Nature(1) and Perception (2) checks to find suitable tree: (1)[roll0] (2)[roll1]
Athletics Check to climb tree: [roll2]
Stealth Check to hide in the foliage: [roll3]

[finalepic]

Dect ponders his options for a moment.

"Maybe the kobolds are in the general vicinity, again or still. If they are, and we make a lot of noise, some of them will come to investigate and likely leave a fresher trail."

[Dekkah]

DM
At Dect words, Herrick will reply,
"Wont work. I'v' nev'r seen their track. I som'times even go deep'r than her'. Also, tha town elves huntin' groun' is bigger than me own. They often go abou' a day mor' south than me."
You can all notice some displeasure when he speak of the elves. They aren't Herrick favorite villagers.

[Keler]

Then this seems a good time to set up camp". If the party sets up camp Dorn will ask if any one wants to join him in a quick scane of the surrounding woods.

Nature (if needed):[roll0], Perception (if needed) [roll1]

[Shadow_Elf]

Ah, camping in the great outdoors! yawns Ace, stretching as they begin to set up camp. Dorn, if you're going to do a quick search around the area, mind if I tag along? I doubt I'll be much good, but you never know what a second pair of eyes and an extra brain can lend.

I call evens on both checks for Beginner's Luck. If the d20 is an even number, I get +4 to the check.

Assisting Dorn:
Nature: [roll0] (Even roll, so total is 17)
Perception: [roll1] (Even roll, so total is 23)

I am really hoping his Beginner's Luck will kick in here

EDIT: And Ace proves to be lucky as sin yet again!

[Balricaso]

Damned kobolds. They can't hide forever... Marv mumbles as he pitches his tent.
Afterward, Marv begins performing routine martial exercises to unwind.

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn and Ace leave to do a round as you guys start to prepare the camp. They come back about half an hour later.
In that time, camp is completed and meal ready.
Gained a success from nature check (PMed info to Shadow elf and Keler)
Success : 4 Failure : 1

[Skinshifter]

Visk looks up from her search of the perimeter in time to see Dorn and Ace returning to the camp and curses herself quietly, taking her dinner with the group in silence and volunteering immediately for the first watch of the night.

[Dekkah]

DM
June 11, 1500

After a quiet night, you wake up under heavy rain. Herrick bid you farewell and Dorn proceed to follow the few tracks he have. The path isnt really clear and you often find yourselves guessing and then searching for some time until you finaly find some more evidence of the kobolds passage. After about 6 hours of travel, you seem to have lost them. Dorn double back up to where he found the last marks. After some time analizing the area, Dorn conclude that they seem to have splitted up in three groups. One going south, one going south-west, one going west. At this point Dorn isnt sure she could find more tracks and follow them, since the enemy groups have thined and surely left less markings.

This is a continuation of the last perception (Dorn had highest roll I made).
You estimate to be in the middle of the forest area north-east of the Green Peaks (Les monts verts), about half way between them and the Grandvents.
If you still want to go with tracking, an other perception skill must be rolled (someone have to call and do it).
What do you do?
BTW, you still can do stuff last night if you weren't done.

[Shardan]

"There are two ways to find someone in this situation. Find where they were.. or find where they're going. They're not looking for more victims split up, so they likely are looking to roost. We might have better luck looking for their camp or den than their tracks. Dorn, you are th' ranger, which direction should we try first? Visk, mayhap you can scout ahead from th' shadows. Moradin knows they can probably hear me coming from the town. But if ye find trouble, come back to us, don' try and take things on your own."

[Shadow_Elf]

Wild Soul for today:
[roll0]

Poison. Ace has resist 5 poison today, and his eyes are correspondingly a murky green-violet mixture.

When Herrick leaves, Ace bows to him and tips hit hat. You are a good man, Herrick the Trapper. I am honoured to have had your assistance. When next we meet, perhaps we can have a rematch - I'm sure my luck cannot run on forever. he extends his hand to shake the man's hand.

After he leaves, and they are deciding courses of action:

Though I sometimes get lucky, I must say I am no outdoorsman. I will defer to Dorn and Visk's judgement on this, and help wherever I can.

[Skinshifter]

Visk fidgets with her armor and runs her hand through her short, pale hair while the two men suggest she go off into the forest alone. She turns to Dorn and nods, frowning slightly, but stops fidgeting.
What do you think, Ranger? Her voice cracks and she clears her throat, pulling on her collar slightly. I mean, which direction do you want to take? I'll take the other and if nothing presents itself by midday maybe we can meet back here and try the middle one together? Her voice is thin, but her usual confidence is still there, just hidden in the unfamilliar terrain of the forest.
I'll follow with the Perception check after Dorn and I head out.

[Keler]

Well, There seems to be few traces of passage leading that way (points south-west) but im not sure how far they led. Anyways, it seems to be are best bet.

[/spoiler]Perception: [/roll]1d20+7[roll].[/spoiler]

((Face Palm))

[Keler]

Perception: [roll0]

[finalepic]

"I'm for following the tracks. They probably lead somewhere interesting if not necesarily directly where we want to go."

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn have some trouble fiding the tracks at first, but still manage to find some regulary enough to guide you throught. You go south-west for most of the day. A little bit before diner, you find some fresher tracks. As you take some time to investigate the area, you see that there is many set of tracks that come and goes in any directions but the one you come from (north-east). You now know you are on the kobold grounds and should find the camp with time. You can hear some river to the west and spot the Green Peaks directly south not too far, an hour or so on foot. Still being in their grounds can make it difficult...
An other success .
Success : 5 Failure : 1

Now, tracking isnt a problem (so you cant use perception to track, but can come up with others ideas to use that skill). The main danger is to get caught by patrols or hunter pack that can alert the whole camp, and the more time you take, the most chances you have that it happens.
So, the default way to try for an other success is to track until your lucky and find to right tracks (no need to roll for it), but this require a Group stealth check (roll for each character, need 3 success on 5).
If you have others ideas or skills you want to use, justput it IC.
If you decide to go for the follow the tracks until lucky, just say so IC as well.

[Skinshifter]

If you all want to camp here for the night I can sneak over to the river and find a place to stay the night out there, watching for the comings and goings of the kobolds. If anyone wants to come with me I won't discourage you.
She shrugs. And if you want to continue searching through the night I'll take point. They'll never see me coming.

Stealth check: [roll0]

[Shadow_Elf]

Just a thought, but from what I know of kobolds, they're sneaky and fond of traps. I don't think fighting them on their home ground is wise - but if we bait them out here and take out as many as we can in the open, I think that will improve our odds when we weed the last of them out of their lair. The Vistani grins. Of course, I'm no tactician, so why don't you all tell me what you think of the idea? I would have no problems... drawing us some attention, should the need arise.

[finalepic]

"Oh, you all know I'm for his plan. It has a special place in my heart right now."

[Balricaso]

Marv slaps Ace on the back with probably more force then he intended.

Now theres an idea! I've had enough of this damned walking! Bring the blighters to us! They've been cowering in their holes far too long. Marv visually begins to perk up after the drudgery of all this tracking nonsense.
I'll gladly be the bait if it'll finally bring the scaled cowards out of their hidey-hole!

[Skinshifter]

Visk sighs and runs her hand through her hair agitatedly, but suddenly stops. Wait she says jarring herself out of her reverie.
We're not here to kill the kobolds, we're here to retrieve the papers for L'aurore. If we bring wave upon wave of the nasty things upon us all we are doing is endangering our lives without giving ourselves a chance to find their lair and catch them by surprise.
And I, for one, would like to know why kobolds are stealing papers instead of food or shiny metals.
She pauses a moment, thinking of a way to compromise. Her eyes brighten and she looks up at Dorn. Give me . . . and Dorn if he wants, a day to find them. Then you can bring them out to us and I'll try to sneak into the lair and get the papers back--and any clues as to why they're stealing papers in the first place.

[Keler]

"I agree with Visk, lets not put ourselfs in any unnecessary danger. Visk and I can probably find those kobold with out any trouble."

[Keler]

((hate double posting))
Im going to go ahead and roll for perception and stealth (assuming were going with the plan in OOC).
Perception:[roll0], Nature to see if Dorn can use anything in the surrounding to make our approach more silent: [roll1], Stealth:[roll2]

[Skinshifter]

I will keep my previous stealth check unless DM wants a different one
Perception: [roll0]

[Shadow_Elf]

I think we can run both plans... at the same time. Dorn and Visk move up close to the kobolds' base, we generate a distraction and make our stand out here, and then they steal the plans and the flag back. When they have succeeded, Visk must simply fire a crossbow bolt straight into the air, and we'll retreat and rendezvous with them back down the road. How does that sound to everyone? Ace looks at his companions' responses, and then has a sudden "eureka" moment. We could perhaps even additionally prepare this field of battle so that it serves to our advantage. Just a thought, though.

[finalepic]

"I like it. It suits everyone. Perhaps something rather flashier and more obvious than a crossbow bolt, though? I'm not sure I can spot one of those over the din of combat. If push comes to shove, light it on fire or something?"

[Balricaso]

Aye, if you want to do it your way ye can. I'll not throw you to the "lions" haha.
Marv starts looking around the surrounding area for stones and other miscellaneous objects.
Reckon I could probably fashion some makeshift barrier or hidey holess for you all to hide behind when we call the blighters out

Nature for materials: [roll0]
Dungeoneering for Marv's perceived ability to fashion barriers [roll1]

[Shardan]

"I think I just need a way to get close enough to deliver some of Moradin's justice to these things." He pats the head of his mordenkrag. "Something to make sure Dect an' Ace have plenty of cover so they are not easy targets for their slings."

[Dekkah]

DM

Just before dusk, you find a good spot to hide and make camp, where kobold dont appear to go usually (no tracks). You make camp and all do your guard duties without troubles.

June 12, 1500
As morning comes, the rain had stopped and the sun is shinning. Visk and Dorn quickly eat and then go search for the kobolds.

Marv starts to gather some usefull materials to build some defenses later when you decide where your gonna do your stand.

Keler and Visk got the Final success. Skill challence completed : XP : 300 (50 Each).
They got informations via PM (still playing it in PM).
Everyone use one ration (unless you wanna try to find food - use regular forage rules).

You have at least up to mid afternoon before Visk and Dorn come back (unsure yet, they still have to decide what they do). So what do the rest of you do while they are gone? (your part will be played in this thread).

[Keler]

At mid day Dorn reaches the camp. After taking a long drink of water he relays the information he gained.

"I only saw bout 8 kobolds with weapons and a small hunting pet, nothing that looks threatening. The village is located somewhere at the foot of the Green peaks. Visk says to start when ever ready."

[Shadow_Elf]

Wonderful! Well, we should prepare the field of battle in our favour, and then launch the distraction. I will happily set things off by launching an incendiary high into the sky. He rolls an Ace of Spades along his fingers, then shoves it back into the deck. So, how can I help?

[finalepic]

"I can help as far as the direction of attack goes. Give me a few minutes, if you will."

Dect takes a few moments to set up and perform a ritual.

"Hand of Kord, should we lure out the kobolds and fight them in the open?"

Dect follows the hand's answer with another question.

"Hand of Kord, which direction should we launch for best results?"


Claiming my daily free use of Hand of Fate given to me by Invoker.

The hand favors greatest reward, regardless of risk. It does, however, point to the least risky for equally great reward, if that makes sense.

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn lead you south toward the mountain for an hour. When you reach the mountain , you go west along its bottom for about an hours. You all can see a path with some kobolds prints. Your all alert, but you don't encounter anything on the way. After a bit more than an hour of travel, Dorn make you stop.
Dorn : You know that the village is close by on this path (5 more minutes going west). This spot is where you gone down from the mountain (if you go up the mountain, you can reach Visk hidding spot form here).
You also can go north-west and go around the town and find the spot you first saw the town (before going into the mountain).
Where do you go/what do you do?

[Keler]

"The village is only about 5 more minutes from here, however if we go this way (points north-west) we can go though the mountain and attack from higher ground. Either way, as long as we make a big enough ruckus ruckus Visk should have no trouble getting the documents"

[Balricaso]

Mountain eh? That sounds like a proper battleground! Lead away, my friend, there's work to be done and adventure to be had! I'll give those scaly dogs a ruckus, heh heh heh...

[Shardan]

"As long as we're taking the high ground.. lets ready a little.. surprise. I don't care who you are, a rock slide will likely ruin your day."

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn you lead south out of the trail, slighlty up into the mountain. There is no path, but it isnt so hard to move around. It is a slightly ascending slope, with some small cliffs averaging 10 feets high. You finaly reach the spot where Visk is waiting 10 minutes later, which is around dinner time. Your about two hundred feet south of the camp and around 130 feet higher than it. You can clearly see the kobolds camp (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5455253243206692338).
Right in the middle of the village stands a large dragon statue. It is made of stone and is nicely crated. The statue is on back legs, wings deployed and his head upward as if he was roaring to the sky.
The village is built around the statue. To the south, there is 3 crudely crafted houses, made of wood and mud. There is 10 crudly crafted tents made of animal skins randomly placed west and east of the statue. There is also one pen with a lizard pet, on the east side.
There is 4 firepits within the village.

You see a dozen younglings moving around the town and two adults taking care of them. There is two hiden guards in the trees north of the town. You see one kobold fighter with a pike in the town.
You can easyly estimate that the town should have much more kobold in it. Either they arent around right now, or they are hidden or asleep within the tent and houses.


Map description :
The large dragon statue is in the middle (covering the whole pink squares - not just the small area statue is).
The three wood/mud huts are the pink areas south- bottom of the map - (the brown lines are the doors).
The others pink areas are the tents (each of their opening are near the statues).
There is a big hill on the south-east side. Its tip is 10 feet high.

The two small black dragon pog are the 2 kobolds sentries in the trees.
The small blue dragon pog is the lizard pet within his pen (brown line is gate).
The goblins pogs are the youngling kobolds (these should not pose much threat).
The small red dragon pog is a fighter male kobold.
The 2 skeleton kobold are the female preparing some meals.
The 4 circles with red/orange within are firepits.

The mountain is south (bottom), which is from where you can spot it.

PS Dorn : I know, the direction are changed from the the PM I first gave you, I realised my error when I drew the map. So what is in this post is the correct direction.

[Skinshifter]

When Visk sees the others, she motions for them to join her, but quietly.
I thought you were going to get them to leave the town? she says, relief obvious on her face. What are you thinking of doing?

[Shardan]

"Dinna worry, Visk. We are na planning a wholesale slaughter of the young ones. but we'll be able to overlook the village while you do your thing so if something does go wrong, well, you willna be alone. Oh.. even if the papers seem destroyed.. bring back what you can." He hmmms quietly, "Moradin, I hope this all goes the way we want it to."

[Dekkah]

DM
You all give Visk 5 minutes to get into position hidden into bushes behind the small hill south-east of the town, so she can go search if you get spotted and draw them out of town while getting into position. When she is there and signal you to move, you proceed to move slowly down the mountain to the last cliff to make your stand. Ace have some trouble getting there stealthly making some bad decisions, but with the rest of the group help you all manage to get into position without attracting the kobold attention. Building the wall on the west entry is easy since it out of sight of the town.
Group stealth check (4/5 success):
Marv :[roll0]
Dect :[roll1]
Dorn :[roll2]
Ace :[roll3]
Bladric :[roll4]

You built the low wall (Q10 R10)which will be an obstacle (climb DC 8 to pass - count as 2 squares of movement.)
I edited the map and placed your characters in some spots. If you want me to move them somewhere else, just tell me which square you want to be in.

Right now, I need to know what you do (do visk try to sneak in or do you draw them out to you? Visk can see you (and you can see her), so you can signal each others.
Mountain Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461097179603783602)

[Keler]

Dorn finds a large bush to hide behind and pulls a javelin from the sheath on his back. If any enemies get within 10 squares he will toss the javelin at it and charge.

Ready action:
Throw and Stab (triggers a charge), Attack [roll0] Damage [roll1]
Marauder's Rush (replaces basic attack), Attack [roll2] Damage [roll3]

[Balricaso]

Marv motions for Visk to approach the village and looks across to Ace, ensuring his readiness; his hammer and shield drawn.

Reposition Marv to 39 Y
Ready Action: Charge first enemy within range (5 squares)
Also, for the duration of the fight Marv will be doing non-lethal damage

[Shadow_Elf]

((Ace is fine where he is currently.))

Ace nods to Marv, and looks into the sky. He fires an arcing bolt of fire into the air, alerting the kobolds to their presence. The game is afoot! Time to see how much our combat training actually helped!

He draws a card from his deck and ***** pulls back his arm, ready to throw the card.
Ready Action to Energy Strobe the first enemy to enter energy strobe range (10 squares).

((EDIT: Wow, the sensors, I forgot. I meant the word in the sense of pulling back, not in any vulgar sense, but I guess they cannot tell. I'll simply replace it with "pulls back"))

[Shardan]

Moving with Marv, charging as well. doing my best to block the way up.

[Dekkah]

DM
As the flare goes up into the mountain, one of the kids seem to notice it, drawing the attention of the other in the town.
The fighter kobold appear unsure of what to do and go into the south-west wood and clay hut. He comes out 3 minutes after with an other kobold. This one appear old but still vigorous and also respected by the other kobolds. He is surrounded by lots of rats (an hundred), which appears to be under his control and stay within five feet of him. He look into the mountain for a minute, then say something to the fighter before returning to his hut.

The fighter then go into a couple tents waking up some others. As they gather to form a pack, one go get the lizard pet and the fighter return to his duty within the town. There is 8 kobolds total and a pet as they start to move toward you. Five of the kobold carry javelins and a long pike. The others have sling ready and a dagger at their belt.

They seemed oblivious to your presence as they come within the spot of your ambush. Only the first kobold spot Ace within the bushes at the last second.

I used your stealth rolls to check if your spoted. Only Aces check was low enough and only the first kobold (V25) will play in the surprise.

Visk is in the village map (V25)

Remember, a surpise round is only one standard action (no action point permited)
Initiative rolls:
Dect Initiative :[roll0]
Marv Initiative :[roll1]
Dorn Initiative :[roll2]
Visk Initiative :[roll3]
Baldrick Initiative :1D20+-1
Ace Initiative :[roll4]
Slinger kobold (black face icons) Initiative :[roll5]
Piker kobolds (Red face icon) Initiative :[roll6]
Pet (Blue face icon) Initiative :[roll7]


Initiative :
Round 1
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19 <----Active turn
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10
Marv : 6
Dect : 6

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 0
(Q36)Slinger: 0
(T38)Slinger: 0
(R35)Slinger: 0
(U35)Piker : 0
(O36)Piker : 0
(S37)Piker : 0
(Q35)Piker : 0
(T35)Piker : 0

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461109267127800482)
Village map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461114124634467266)

[Keler]

((For my Ready action I rolled my attack and damage rolls in my last post if that is ok))
Lets take those vermin down! yells Dorn as he jumps out of cover and throws his javelin at the nearest kobold. He then breaks into a charge, heading towards the nearest kobold. If the kobold doesnt go down, Dorn will charge it, of it does go down, Dorn will insted charge at T34.

[Dekkah]

DM
The point kobold warning is cut short by dorn javelin piercing right throught the kobolds belly, making him loose conciousness. Dorn charge he next kobold in line delivering a solid slash.

Initiative :
Round (Surprise)
Pet : 24 (Surprised)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17 <----Active turn
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16 (Surprised)
Piker : 12 (Surprised)
Visk : 10
Marv : 6
Dect : 6

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q36)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S38)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(R35)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(V35)Piker : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S37)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q35)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(T35)Piker : 11, Grant CA (Surprised)

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461210411427762930)

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace lets loose, firing a flaming card at one of the kobolds. It leaves a trail of fire behind it - when it makes impact, any kobold close to the trail of fire gets burned as it backlashes.

Standard Action - Arcing Fire on the Kobold at R35.
Attack: [roll0] vs. Reflex
Hit: [roll1] fire damage, and the Kobold in T35 takes 4 fire damage.

[Dekkah]

DM
Ace card burn the piker before hiting and drawing some blood from the slinger.
Initiative :
Round (Surprise)
Pet : 24 (Surprised)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17 <----Active turn
Slinger : 16 (Surprised)
Piker : 12 (Surprised)
Visk : 10
Marv : 6
Dect : 6

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q36)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S38)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(R35)Slinger 15, Bloodied, Grant CA (Surprised)
(V35)Piker : : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S37)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q35)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(T35)Piker : 15, Grant CA (Surprised)

[Shardan]

Ok. Since I'm not fast enough to charge, really. I am going to walk around the body and up to v-36. I will attack the lizard pet with righteous brand.


[roll0]


If I hit, i grant marv a +3 to smack the lizard as well

[Shardan]

Ah. forgot to add damage.


[roll0]

2d5+2 is the same as 1d6 Brutal1 and i don't have to throw a bunch of extra 1d6's just in case
+3 strength and +2 dwarven weapon training

[Dekkah]

DM
Baldrick Charge the small lizard and smash his hammer on its back violently.
Initiative :
Round (Surprise)
Pet : 24 (Surprised)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16 (Surprised)
Piker : 12 (Surprised)
Visk : 10
Marv : 6 <----Active turn
Dect : 6

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 14, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q36)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S38)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(R35)Slinger 15, Bloodied, Grant CA (Surprised)
(V35)Piker : : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S37)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q35)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(T35)Piker : 15, Grant CA (Surprised)
Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461838836989002914)

[Balricaso]

Savoring the surprised look upon the kobolds faces, Marv charges headlong, the battlecry "DEATH OR GLORY!" spewing forth from his lips as he brings his craghammer to fore.

Marv charges to U-35, attacking the kobold in T-35
Modifiers: +1 to charge, +2 Surprise Combat Advantage
Attack: [roll0]
Damage if connecting: [roll1]
Effects on a hit: Marv Gains 3 temporary hitpoints and the target is marked.
-edit-
Looks like a probable miss, Target is still marked though. If hit, brutal reroll will be in OOC, I shoulda rolled 1d9+6 heh.

[Dekkah]

DM
As Marv battlecry resound, his charge swing is blocked by the kobold pike at the last second.

Initiative :
Round (Surprise)
Pet : 24 (Surprised)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16 (Surprised)
Piker : 12 (Surprised)
Visk : 10
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 <----Active turn

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 14, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q36)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S38)Slinger: 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(R35)Slinger 15, Bloodied, Grant CA (Surprised)
(V35)Piker : : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(S37)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(Q35)Piker : 0, Grant CA (Surprised)
(T35)Piker : 15, Grant CA (Surprised), Marked (Marv)
Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5461848152281449442)

[Dekkah]

DM
The surprise was total, but now the enemies start to recover.
There is movement into the kobold village. You can hear that they noticed you and are yelling some things in their language.
The lizard pet, obviously guided by the kobold, move into flanking position, and savagely bite Baldrick. You all can see that this animal is tamed and fight really efficiently with the kobolds.

I am puting Dect and Visk in delay. If they come around they can act whenever. After the battle we will discuss what we do about it.

PET :
Move : Shift to V37
Standard : Bite Baldrick (CA): [roll0] vs AC, Hit : [roll1]

Initiative :
Round 1
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19 <----Active turn
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 14
(Q36)Slinger: 0,
(S38)Slinger: 0,
(R35)Slinger 15, Bloodied,
(V35)Piker : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0,
(S37)Piker : 0,
(Q35)Piker : 0,
(T35)Piker : 15,Marked (Marv)
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 0
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 17, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 0

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5462215825368914226)

[Keler]

Dorn give another swing at the kobold next to him before leaping back to V35

Minor action:Hunter's quarry. Move action: shift. Standard action Marauder's Rush, Attack: Damage:[roll]1d8+1d6+6

[Keler]

Damage: [roll0] + [roll1]

[Keler]

sorry for the triple post

Damage 1d8+6 plus Hunters quarry [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn powerfull slash injure the kobold, drawing some blood.
I rolled you broken damage roll in the OOC thread (when a roll breaks, redo it in OOC please, preventing double post). I rolled maximum damage (14) + your 5 damage quarry = 19 damage.
Initiative :
Round 1
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17 <----Active turn
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 14
(Q36)Slinger: 0,
(S38)Slinger: 0,
(R35)Slinger 15, Bloodied,
(V35)Piker : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0,
(S37)Piker : 0,
(Q35)Piker : 0,
(T35)Piker : 34, Bloodied ,Marked (Marv), hunter's quarry (Dorn)
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 0
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 17, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 0

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5462232125055715586)

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace moves into the open. He gives the lizard pet a bone-chilling glare, and throws one of his cards into the middle of the group of kobolds. As it lands among them, it seeps with a maddening mist. Flee for your lives, you scaly little buggers! The Ace of Spades is here!

Move Action - Move to BB35

Minor Action - Evil Eye of the Vistani, used on the lizard pet
Attack: [roll0] vs. Will
Hit: The lizard pet cannot willingly move closer to Ace and grants combat advantage to me UENT.

Standard Action - Mists of Disarray, Burst 1 centered on R36
Damage roll: [roll1] psychic damage.

Attack on Q35:[roll2] vs. Will
Hit: Takes the damage, and it is pushed to P35. If the result is even, it is slid to T36.

Attack on R35: [roll3] vs. Will
Hit: Takes the damage. If the result is even, it is slid to O35.

Attack on Q37: [roll4] vs. Will
Hit: Takes the damage and pushed to P37. If the result is even, it is slid to N37.

Attack on S37: [roll5] vs. Will
Hit: Takes the damage, and it is pushed to T37. If the result is even, it is slid to T40.

Evil Eye of the Vistani
Encounter Charm
Minor Action Ranged 10
Target: One creature
Attack: Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma + 3 vs. Will
Level 11: Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma + 6 vs. Will
Level 21: Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma + 9 vs. Will
Hit: Until the end of your next turn, the target grants combat advantage to you and cannot willingly move closer to you.

Mists of Disarray
Encounter Arcane, Implement, Psychic
Standard Action Area burst 1 within 10 squares
Target: Each creature in burst
Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: 1d8 + Charisma modifier psychic damage, and you push the target 1 square.
Wild Magic: If you rolled an even number on the attack roll, you slide the target a number of squares equal to your Dexterity modifier instead of pushing it.

[Dekkah]

DM
Ace gaze seem to frighten the pet, keeping it at bay for now.
A mist appear for a couples seconds in the fray and two kobolds in it start to panic and run around. The first run face first into the cliff, knocking his head and falling unconcious. The other start to move toward his village cluching his head and yelling in pain, droping to the ground a few feet later.
The eye hit. The mist hit 2 kobolds (R35, S37) and miss the others.
Initiative :
Round 1
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17 <----Active turn
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 14, Eye of vistacini UENT (Ace)
(Q36)Slinger: 0,
(S38)Slinger: 0,
(R35)Slinger : Unconcious
(V35)Piker : Unconcious
(O36)Piker : 0,
(S37)Piker : Unconcious
(Q35)Piker : 0,
(T35)Piker : 34, Bloodied ,Marked (Marv), hunter's quarry (Dorn)
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 0
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 17, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 0

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5462575543689819890)

[Shardan]

Baldrick looks at the lizard and scowls, "one more bite and I'll turn ya into a pair of boots you blasted rat chaser." He swings his hammer again, focusing the wrath of Moradin into his swing


Righteous Brand [roll0]

Damage [roll1]
Marv gets a +3 to hit the lizard (melee) if I hit

Second wind myself-Minor Action
No move action

[Dekkah]

DM
Baldrick strike true and hit the pet solidly breaking some bones.
One of the slinger shoot at Baldrick and miss then say,
"Sish Loock Talliss Lamtos! Kartissss shal."
He then close in the fray and drop some caltrops on the floor behind Baldrick. His partner slinger move behind him and shoot a small pot at Dorn which explode on impact, covering him in glue, before shifting back a bit.
The pikerman severly injured strike back at Marv trying to push him away but miss. The two other pikers move into position and charge with their longpike at Baldrick striking him.



Baldrick bloodied the pet and Marv have +3 to hit the pet if he attacks it .

Slinger1:
Standard : Sling at Baldrick: [roll0] , hit [roll1]
Move : R36>S36>T37>U37
Minor : Drop Caltrops in V36

Slinger2:
Move : Move to U38
Standard : Sling at Dorn: [roll2] , hit [roll3] damage and Dorn is immobilized (Save ends)
Minor :Shift to T39

Piker2 :
Move : Move to Q40
Standard : (Reach 2) Charge Baldrick [roll4] , hit 4 damage.

Piker4 :
Standard : (Reach 2) Charge Baldrick [roll5] , hit 4 damage.

Piker5 :
Standard : Warding pike on Marv [roll6] vs Fort , hit [roll7] damage and push Marv 1 on V36.
If Marv is pushed :
Caltrop attack :[roll8]vs reflex, Hit :[roll9] damage and Marv is slowed (Save ends)



Initiative :
Round 1
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6 <----Active turn
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 25, Blooddied, +3 hit for Marv UENT (Baldrick), Eye of vistacini UENT (Ace)
(U37)Slinger1: 0,
(U38)Slinger2: 0,
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(S38)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(S36)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : 34, Bloodied ,Marked (Marv), hunter's quarry (Dorn)
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 0
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 19, Bloodied (regained 6, took 8 damage this turn)
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5463008058724981554)

[Balricaso]

Marv gestures at the caltrop dropper
"This is going to be a lot more painful for your friends when they fall!"
He swings his hammer mightily at the kobold in front of him, raising his shield to guard his step backward before unleashing 2 swings at the lizard and kobold engaging Baldrick.


Resolute shield on kobold in T-35:
Kobold in T-35 is marked again
Attack: [roll0] vs AC
Damage on a hit: [roll1]
Effect on a hit: Marv gains Resist 3 to all Damage from targets attacks until the end of his next turn.

Move: Shift to V-36

Action Point:
Hack and Hew targeting U-37 and V-37
Kobold in U-37 and pet in V-37 are marked
Primary attack on Kobold U-37: [roll2] vs AC
Primary Damage: [roll3]

Secondary Attack on Pet in V-37: [roll4] vs AC
Secondary Damage: [roll5]

Effect: If marv connects with atleast on attack from Hack and Hew he gains 6 temporary hitpoints. If he misses both targets he gains 3 temporary hitpoints

[Dekkah]

DM
Marv slam his hammer to the side of the piker head, knocking him out cold. He then engage Baldrick enemies, walking on the caltrop, injuring his feets.
Marv two slashes connect both his opponents.
The pet try to bite back after a quick order from the kobold, but Marv manage to dodge it.

Into the village, there is some panic.
The ratmaster comes out of his hut and start to observe the battle on the slopes of the mountain. He yells a couples orders and some order return in the village. The warrior runs toward the tent as the womens start to gather the kids and move north.
All Marv hit connect.
Since Marv enter the Caltrops square, they attack him :
Caltrop attack :[roll0] vs reflex, Hit :[roll1] damage and Marv is slowed (Save ends)
The caltrop are now crushed (safe square)

PET :
Standard : Bite Marv : [roll2]vs AC, Hit : [roll3] damage

The new Icon (helmet skeleton) in the village (with the dots around him) represent the Ratmaster with his rats all around.

Initiative :
Round 2
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19 <----Active turn
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 34, Marked (Marv), Blooddied, +3 hit for Marv UENT (Baldrick), Eye of vistacini UENT (Ace)
(U37)Slinger1: 12, Marked (Marv)
(U38)Slinger2: 0,
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(S38)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(S36)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 10, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 6
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 19, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)

Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5463341801790559474)
Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5463342662242591986)

[Keler]

Dorn pulls out another javelin and throws it at the pet, then tries to remove the glue.

Minor action: Hunters Quarry. Attack [roll0], Damage + Hunters Quarry: [roll]2d6+4[roll] Saving throw vs. Immobilized: [roll1]

[Dekkah]

DM
Dorn javelin miss the pet by about a feet.
Initiative :
Round 2
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17 <----Active turn
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 34, Marked (Marv), Blooddied, +3 hit for Marv UENT (Baldrick), Eye of vistacini UENT (Ace), Hunter's Quarry (Dorn)
(U37)Slinger1: 12, Marked (Marv)
(U38)Slinger2: 0,
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(S38)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(S36)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 10, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 6
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 19, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)

[Shadow_Elf]

Here I go! You're gunna get it, beastie! He whips a card out of his deck, and it glows green and red with roiling chaotic energy as he throws it at the lizard pet.

Standard Action: Chaos Bolt vs. the Lizard pet
Attack: [roll0] vs. Will <- If this is even, secondary attack
Damage: [roll1] psychic damage.

Secondary Attack:
vs. Kobold U37: [roll2] vs. Will <- If this is even, tertiary attack
Damage: [roll3] psychic damage.

Tertiary Attack:
vs. Kobold S36: [roll4] vs. Will <- If this is even, quaternary attack
Damage: [roll5] psychic damage.

Quaternary Attack:
vs. Kobold S38: [roll6] vs. Will <- If this is even, pentiary attack
Damage: [roll7] psychic damage.

Pentiary Attack:
vs. Kobold T39: [roll8] vs. Will
Damage: [roll9] psychic damage.

((Of course, I roll a Natural 1 on the first attack roll... :smallsigh:.))

Chaos Bolt
At-Will Arcane, Implement, Psychic
Standard Action Ranged 10
Primary Target: One creature
Primary Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: 1d10 + Charisma modifier psychic damage.
Level 21: 2d10 + Charisma modifier psychic damage.
Wild Magic: If you rolled an even number for the primary attack roll, make a secondary attack.
Secondary Target: One creature within 5 squares of the target last hit by this power
Secondary Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: 1d6 psychic damage. If you rolled an even number for the secondary attack roll, repeat the secondary attack. You can attack a creature only once with a single use of this power.


End Turn.

[Dekkah]

DM
Ace card completly miss the lizard and hit the cliff behind it.
Initiative :
Round 2
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17 <----Active turn
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : 34, Marked (Marv), Blooddied, +3 hit for Marv UENT (Baldrick), Hunter's Quarry (Dorn)
(U37)Slinger1: 12, Marked (Marv)
(U38)Slinger2: 0,
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(S38)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(S36)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 10, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 6
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 19, Bloodied
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)

[Shardan]

Baldric grows out, "Moradin gives us strength. You will fall for your unbelief." He barks at the lizards handler before he swings with Righteous brand once more. He can't hide his wounds though and shifts back one step (from 36 to 35.) He uses healing word on himself healing his wounds. He looks around to make sure no one else is badly injured.



[roll0]

[roll1]

[Dekkah]

DM
Baldrick hammer bash the pet skull, making him drop on the floor unconcious.

The caltrop droped says,
"Salazz nass, Sliish tooss dawnnn dirssst!."
He then move away with great agility, a gift of their race, shot a rock at Marv knee making loose balance and move back a bit, before dashing away. The other slinger send an other glue pot, but this time hit Baldrick, entangling him in viscous liquid, before running away.
One of the piker hit Baldrick and move in a defensive position for his slinger. The other, having no one within reach, move and ready his pike for oncoming assault.
The other slinger
Slinger1:
Minor : Shift to T38
Standard : Knee shot at Marv: [roll0] , hit [roll1] and Marv is pushed 1.
Move : Run to L40

Slinger2:
Standard : Sling at Baldrick: [roll2] , hit [roll3]damage and Baldrick is immobilized (Save ends)
Minor :Shift to L47
Move : Run to K48

Piker2 :
Move : Move to N42
Standard : (Reach 2) Attack with pike Baldrick [roll4] , hit 4 damage. <--- This attack was illegal (Baldric was Out of reach). He will ready an attack if someone approach him instead.

Piker4 :
Standard : (Reach 2) Attack with pike Baldrick [roll5] , hit 4 damage.
Move : Move to N38



Initiative :
Round 2
Pet : 24
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6 <----Active turn
Dect : 6 (Delay)

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : Unconcious
(L40)Slinger1: 12, Marked (Marv), Grant CA (Run)
(K48)Slinger2: 0, Grant CA (Run)
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(N42)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(N38)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 18, Bloodied, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 6
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 14, Bloodied, Immobilized (Save ends) (healed 16 : Surge vlaue (6) + 1d6 (6) + wisdom (4))
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)


Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5464465353621561986)

[Balricaso]

Marv strikes out as the kobold slinger attempts to move away:

Immediate interrupt to slinger 1 moving away:
Combat Challenge attack:
[roll0]
damage: [roll1]

As the kobolds shot impacts Marv's knee, Marv stands his ground, unmoving
Dwarven Racial ability, Reduce push by 1, Marv remains where he previously was

[Balricaso]

"You're not gettin' off the hook that easy ya scaly dog!"
Marv limps forward, showing off the boundless endurance of his dwarven kind.

Double Move to Bring Marv to R-39
Minor Action to Second wind.
saving throw vs slowed: [roll0]
Current HP: 28 + 1 Temp
+2 to all defenses until end of next turn; 20AC 17Fort 16Ref 14Will

[Dekkah]

DM
As the Kobold run away, Marv strike him hard, bloodying it.
As Marv slowly walk after the fleeing kobold, you all can see the ratmaster give a couple orders as 5 kobolds get out of the tent. Three of them are using some sword and shield like the one that woke them up but did not had time to put on their armor. The other have a nicely crafted staff. The last one appear to be an injured and old kobold who goes hide at the dragon statue tail and watch around the town.
The ratmaster move behind the huts and stays there as the kobold fighter group move toward him.
During that time, the 2 sentries in the trees come down and help the womans gather the kids to the north-east.

In the village map :
The red icon are the sheild kobolds (the one with the black dot wear his armor.
The blue Icon is the staff weilder
The helmet undead with the dot around is the ratmaster
The skeleton behind the statue is the old injured kobold.
The black icon are the slinger sentries from the trees.
The 2 skeleton among the kids are the womens.

Initiative :
Round 3
Pet : 24 (Dead)
Dorn : 19 <----Active turn
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)
Village : EOT

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : Unconcious
(L40)Slinger1: 12, Grant CA (Run)
(K48)Slinger2: 0, Grant CA (Run)
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(N42)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(N38)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 3, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 1
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 14, Bloodied, Immobilized (Save ends)
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4, Immobilized (Save ends)


Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5464838661203841634)
Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5464838666653237602)

[Keler]

Run ya cowards
Dorn frees himself and gathers his javelins.
I hope we bought Visk enough time

[Shadow_Elf]

You will not get away that easily! Time for a Royal Flush! Ace launches another red and green playing card after one of the most weakened kobolds, hoping to ricochet it just so and hamper the rest.

The card strikes the first kobold, but the card fails to ricochet.

Move Action: Move to V36
Standard Action: Chaos Bolt @ L40

Attack: [roll0] vs. Will
Damage: [roll1] psychic damage.

If that's an even# and a hit, secondary attack vs. N42

Attack: [roll2] vs. Will
Damage: [roll3] psychic damage.

If that's an even# and a hit, tertiary attack vs. N38

Attack: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5] psychic damage.

Chaos Bolt
At-Will Arcane, Implement, Psychic
Standard Action Ranged 10
Primary Target: One creature
Primary Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: 1d10 + Charisma modifier psychic damage.
Level 21: 2d10 + Charisma modifier psychic damage.
Wild Magic: If you rolled an even number for the primary attack roll, make a secondary attack.
Secondary Target: One creature within 5 squares of the target last hit by this power
Secondary Attack: Charisma vs. Will
Hit: 1d6 psychic damage. If you rolled an even number for the secondary attack roll, repeat the secondary attack. You can attack a creature only once with a single use of this power.

[Dekkah]

DM
As Dorn free himself, Ace run toward the fleeing kobolds and send a purple energy charged card, which hit the kobold in the back making him yell in pain.

Dorn, you forgot to roll your save ;).
Dorn Save vs Immobilise :[roll0]
Ace Attack hit and bloody the kobold.

Initiative :
Round 3
Pet : 24 (Dead)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17 <----Active turn
Slinger : 16
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6
Dect : 6 (Delay)
Village : EOT

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : Unconcious
(L40)Slinger1: 29, Grant CA (Run)
(K48)Slinger2: 0, Grant CA (Run)
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(N42)Piker2 : 0,
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(N38)Piker4 : 0,
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 3, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 1
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 14, Bloodied, Immobilized (Save ends)
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4


Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465189248903843778)

[Shardan]

Baldric kneels down, using the bulk of the mordenkrag to act as a shield as he works at removing the glue from his feet so he can move again. "so tell me, lads. what do we do now that we have their attention? heh. Blasted thrice cursed glue"

Baldrick uses total defense (since nothing is within 5 of me so i can't hit anything.

Save v. immobilize [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
When Baldrick manage to get free of the glue, the kobold completed the short run and reached the village. The caltrop droper says a couple thing at the ratmaster, who stays put and never take his eyes from you and retort something to the agitated kobold, making him shut up. The surviving kobold then turn around and take defensive position.
The kobold are now in the village map.
The two red one with blue lines are the pikerman left form you combat. the black one with one purple dot is the caltrop droper. the black one with 2 dots is the other slinger left alive.
Initiative :
Round 3
Pet : 24 (Dead)
Dorn : 19
Ace : 17
Baldrick : 17
Kallik : 17
Slinger : 16
Doru : 13
Piker : 12
Visk : 10 (Delay)
Marv : 6 <----Active turn
Dect : 6 (Delay)
Village : EOT

Monsters status :
(U36)Pet : Unconcious
(L40)Slinger1: 29, Grant CA (Run)
(K48)Slinger2: 0, Grant CA (Run)
(R35)Slinger3 : Unconcious
(V35)Piker1 : Unconcious
(N42)Piker2 : 0, Grant CA (Run)
(S37)Piker3 : Unconcious
(N38)Piker4 : 0, Grant CA (Run)
(T35)Piker5 : Unconcious
Players Status
This is to follow your status. I'll try to follow on damage as well, so try to keep me informed on how much you heal yourselve when you do)
Marv : 3, slowed (Save ends), TEMP HP 1
Dect : 0
Baldrick : 14, Bloodied, Total defense
Visk : 0
Ace : 0
Dorn : 4


Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465557143333591346)
Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465557009891230978)

[Shadow_Elf]

Ah, they have regrouped! No matter - that leaves more of them to catch all at once with my cards! He laughs, sliding the cards into his sleeve, where they vanish, but keeping them ready to use at any time.

((Are we going to recharge per-encounter resources before we reach the village, since it looks like a new encounter?))

[Dekkah]

DM
Into the village, the fighter and staff weilder move in your direction andwere going to go for you, but are stopped in their track by some words from ratmaster. After that they take some defensive position and wait.

During that time, Visk started to move. she stealthyly move between the tent, going toward the statue and the old kobold.
Visk rolls :
1 :[roll0]
2 :[roll1]
3 :[roll2]


Battle Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465557143333591346)
Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465754365102757122)

[Dekkah]

DM
Visk, start to move toward statue, but got spotted by the old kobold. She raise her crossbow and shoot but miss the kobold who yells something,
"Lisssk Anthooss!"
The kobold turn around and move close to the statue tail, putting its mouth on it. Visk then run toward the old kobold, making a long jump as she close in for no apparent reason, ending it bullrushing the kobold as she land in front of him. As the kobold move back, a pit trap open under his feet and he falls into it. Visk then turn around, give a solid kick to the dragon tail, breaking it then run for it west in between the tents.

Upon hearing the yell, the kobolds appear unsure what to do. Still looking at you, the ratmaster say somthing the the kobolds and 3 of them goes investigate. AS the kobold come into town, Visk is out of sight between the tents and they doesnt appear to have spotted her yet. The caltrop droper then tell them something, pointing in the direction Visk ran away.
Some rolls :
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
All this represent 2 rounds:
Shooting was surprise.
round 1 was move/jump and bullrush
round 2 was break tail and run away.


The old kobold is unconcious (from the fall).
The Caltrop droper is the Black one witha purple dot and saw Visk pass by when she ran away.


If you wanted to do something during those rounds (or afterward), just tell me. Since your higher than the village, you can see that Visk isnt trying to hide but plan to run into the forest... and she does not signal you that she found the papers.

Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5465962800442127842)

[V for Victory]

Approaching from the west you see a woman a few years older than you. She is wearing bright red loose fitting pants, loose yellow smock and oversizeed purple gloves. Her skin is grey and her eye's are black. Her pale white hair is cut into a crew cut. She carries a large leather bag slung over her shoulder. Well well well, if it isn't the freshies she says laughing Last time I saw you all I don't think you knew your blade from your hilt. But looking at the kobolds you seem to have learned alot since then. You might not remember me, I'm Doru. I graduated a few years before you. Once you guys are done here we should grab a drink together.

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace smiles as the gaudily clad new arrival approaches. I'll have you know I still don't know the blade of a sword from its hilt - useless things, those pointy sticks. The Vistani gestures to the kobold village. As it seems our covert operative has fled into the woods, would you care to lend us a hand here, Doru?

[V for Victory]

WOULD I?! Doru says with a huge yell and a smile. She runs over to join the rest of the group.

[Grimlock]

This feels weird- pretending to have been in a fight that I haven't actually fought... Anyhoo
The large dragonborn limps up, leaning on his spear slightly. He stares at the kobolds, a intensity to his glare and a snarl to his lips, exposing some fangs! He visibly makes an effort to calm himself and keep his anger in check. Well, now they've tasted our steel, they might be prepared to talk He glances over at Doru, I think I remember you from the academy. Good to see you again. he turns to Ace, Do you think Vask made it out with the papers? She certainly seemed to be moving fast. Maybe now I could talk to the kobolds, or shall we try to find Vask?

[Shadow_Elf]

I think that if she'd had the papers, she'd have signaled us. So, we'd best act under the assumption that she didn't retrieve them. If we try to negotiate with the kobolds, show them that we didn't kill any of them or theirs, maybe they'll agree to hand over the papers? Ace looks simultaneously cheery and unhappy at the prospect of a peaceful resolution.

[V for Victory]

What are these papers? Doru asks inquisitively

[Keler]

"The Sheriff of Grandvents asked us to retrieve some documents for him," says Dorn greeting Doru. "Lets go down there and make sure Visk is ok."

[Shardan]

After the kobolds had all retreated, Baldric offers a short prayer to Moradin to thank him for the victory and uses his final healing word on himself. [roll0]

Baldric takes a breather before putting his hammer on his back sling. "Ace. The rat-tamer-chief has an eye on us. He'll fold if you play your cards right. You play face to him. I'm going to stay with the down ones. guard them. give you a chip to play in the negotiations"


He moves from kobold to kobold to check on them, binding any serious wounds, then binding their feet and hands. He pulls them all to one place and waits for the negotiations to finish.

[Dekkah]

DM
As you discuss and tie up the kobold, Visk run into the forest. One of the the investigating kobold come up to the open pit and check down to find out the old kobold in it, an other spot Visk as she runs into the wood to the west and the last one go check the statue tail.
They all report yelling loud onough so you can hear to the rat master who still havent taken off his calculating gaze from you.
The one seeing Visk yells,
"Tis Onshuzzess rliss visssm vdoz ssswiiids."
The one checking the pit says,
Liss Dass mils iut.
The one checking the statue reports.
"Shiss kalliss fiss niss goonss blissh!!"
After that, the three kobold are about to go after Visk when the leader yell to them.
"Suiss fy Sciazz. Maecass tis riaszz."
At that, they stop and stay put into the village, watching around.

[Shadow_Elf]

I appreciate the poker references, Baldric, but I can run negotiations without having to think of them as a card game, laughs Ace. So, who wants to accompany me down to parlay? I'll need your translation skills, Kallik, and I think Marv should probably come too, if things break out into violence. If anyone else wants to come along, I'd appreciate the extra security, but we shouldn't leave Baldric alone up here.

[Grimlock]

Kallik turns to Ace. I'm with you. Vask seems to be okay for now, they're not going after her. She's broken the statue- they called it 'the big one caller'. Which suggests they have large reinforcements but are unable to call them. He tightens his grip on his spear and it starts to smoke slightly. They should cause us no problems, but it won't hurt to back up diplomacy with a hint of force. Combined with what we have already done of course. he glances don at the tied Kobolds and glances at his friends,Ready when you are!

[Dekkah]

DM
Ace, Kallik and Marv start to move toward the kobolds. As they come within 30 feet of them, the Ratmaster will speak with autority, trying obviouly to regain some advantage in the situation. He speaks common, way better than you would have anticipated, with a very slight hissing accent.
"Why did you attack my clan, in my domain no lesss? Do you sseek war with the Green Paw clan?"
I assumed Marv will follow. If anyone else wanted to move closer as well, just tell me where you want to be on the map (you cant advance closer than the others (it is where they were when the ratmaster spoke)
Doru is the darlk elf icon in XX9.
Kallik is the dark elf icon with cloak in KK10.

Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5467082841208030850)

[Shadow_Elf]

No such thing, my good fellow! We are here simply to retrieve a stolen banner, and some unjustly acquired documents of great import for the kindly mayor of Grandvents. We have no slain any of your clansmen, oh mighty chieftain - our cleric is tending their wounds as we speak. We desire only the papers and banner - no lifeblood need be shed today. Ace pulls his cards out of his sleeve and begins shuffling them as he awaits the chieftain's considerations. If this breaks out into a fight, he wants to be ready.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
The kobold leader ponder your reply nearly a minute before replying,
"I dont have any banner, what doess it look like? What are those paperss? I will look for them and assk my clan if they have them?"

[Grimlock]

In Draconic

We appreciate your efforts and honour you for your wisdom in this matter

Kallik shares a look with the others and mutters under his breath This could be easier than we thought

[Dekkah]

DM
A surprised look appears on the kobold face when you speak to him in his language and he look at Kallik with some respect.
"Shsis nough jy gnowss lass clakc villl chasssth dsoul tgnii blisss slimms huit wissshe."

He quickly return his gaze on Ace, awaiting some more details about the items he must find.

[Grimlock]

He wants us to leave his clan alone. He's not
looking for a fight. If we let him and his people be, he'll find the papers for us. Kallik looks at the others. What do we know of the papers and the banner?

[Shadow_Elf]

The banner, good chieftain, bears the heraldry of mayor Filass's house, feature three oak seeds surrounding an inverted yellow chevron on a blue background - the top is burgundy, with a crown in the centre. Ace makes some dramatic hand motions to emphasize the shapes he is describing. The papers are old and beaten, signed by one Fredric Auguste. According to the good mayor, one cannot miss them once one knows what one is looking for.

[Keler]

Dorn keeps quite and lets Ace and Kallik do the talking, instead, he keeps a careful eye on the kobolds . If he sees any hostile actions he will attack.

Ready action: Throw and Stab.
Perception: [roll0]
Insight (to see if the leader is telling the truth): [roll1]
Edit: sorry Its been so long since my last post, school is getting a little crazy

[V for Victory]

Doru watches the negotiations eagerly.

[Dekkah]

DM
Absorbing your description, the ratmaster seems to ponders his options, before replying,
"Here iss what we will do. If I dont find it, you will think I hid it, sso you two will come with me and ssearch for it, under my ssupervision. You alsso can assk my clan memberss if they ssaw it, but they mostly only sspeak our native tongue.
You have to sswear that you will free my clan memberss you have and leave uss alone after even if we dont have what you sseek. Iss thiss a deal?"
He designate Ace and Kallik to do the search.

[Grimlock]

In Draconic
Very well Chieftan. This sounds reasonable, but I must ask, why did your clan attack Grandvent? Why take the banner and papers? What can you gain from this, considering you have lived relatively peacefully?
I think he means what he says, especially as we have hostages. He looks at the others, but I would feel safer if the rest of you kept a close eye on what is going on out here.

[Grimlock]

(Sorry for double post, messed up roll)
Diplomacy [roll0]

[Dekkah]

DM
The kobold is taken by surprise by your question and give you a weird and sceptical look, ponders about it for a second, and reply with a serious tone in draconic.
"Kil sas ghilss sui mass. Dill, stoul, bidouss. Lisssm thirr ahh, Lokss sduin sshis amasr."

He returns to common tongue,
"You can sstay up the mountain while we ssearch."
He then notice, at the same time as you do, that some of his fighters started to move slowly in surrounding position, the ratmaster tell them,
Gil vouss, regaa los. Lissg thin lesss sai kitl lis, stoll Liass.
At that order they stop their movements. Some of the kobold appear unhappy, but the caltrop droper clearly is releived.

[Grimlock]

It's okay. He's telling them to stand down. They'll o py attack if we do. He holds up his talloned hands to pre-empt any defensive moves from the party.

[Dekkah]

DM
The kobold nod at Kallik traduction.
An hundred feet to the west, you spot Visk get out of the forest. When she spot that your speaking to the kobold, she go slightly up into the mountain and walk to reach Baldrick and whisper him something.

From this point, Visk fade into the background (take no actions). If skinshifter returns, I'll see what I do.
Shardan, I'll PMed you what she tell's you.

[Shadow_Elf]

Very well my Draconic friend... we have tents to search! Ace grins as he sleeves his cards again. Let's begin!

In case we need rolls, here they are:
Perception, to physically find them: [roll0] <- I forgot to call evens or odds on my untrained check. Should I reroll, or what? +4 might make a big difference.
Insight, to know where they would be: [roll1]

[Dekkah]

DM
As Ace agrees to the kobold terms, the ratmaster reply,
"It iss a deal then. I am Booktooth, you two follow me."
The rest of the group go back to Baldrick.
You can see that Kallik and Ace are going from tent to tents, taking time to search them. Kallik discuss with a couple kobolds. After about an hours, they completed all the tents without any success. Booktooth lead them the the south-east building which they start to search.

Anything you 4 wanna do?
Ace and Kallik, a PM will follow - we deal this in PM, make rolls in OOC when needed.

[Dekkah]

DM
After about 15 more minutes, Kallik Ace and the Kobold comes out of the building and enter the middle one. Soon after that, an hunting patrol returns from the north to the town, while Ace and Kallik are within the middle hut. Their leader stat to talk with one of guards. He appear to be explaining what happened , pointing to the hut and in your direction.


What do you do? I'll assume no reply to be doing nothing of it by the way.

BTW you had time to take a short rest (spend healing surge accordingly - you even have time to use the cleric powers to healing yourselves if you want (to be more efficient with your healing surges).The shield soldier koboldsalso had time to don their armor.

Here is an explanation of the Icons.

Red Icons with a blue line are Pike weilder, the other red Icons are sword and shield.
The blue icon is a pet and the blue one with a pink circle is the staff weilder kobold.
Black icons are slingers.
The skeleton with the helm is the ratmaster (Booktooth).
The regular skeletons are the females and goblins icon are childs.

I added squares on the Icon to represent which group the belong to :
Pink are the survivors of your first encounter.
Orange are the one that where already in the town (sentries and one that were woken up)
Green are the hunting group that just returned.


Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5468519432430363618)

[Shardan]

Baldric is watching the kobolds to see if any of them give away a hiding spot by looking to it while the searchers are busy. When the hunting party returns, he gets a little antsy. He picks his hammer up and moves up to 11 NN, not making any aggrtessive moves, but watching the new party to see their reaction

[Dekkah]

DM
As you look at the scene, the village guard and the leader of the hunter group appear to have an heated discussion.

[Dekkah]

DM
A couple minutes after the arrival of the kobold hunting pack, while they are still arguing among themselves, Ace, Kallik and Booktooth comes out of the middle hut.

Village Map (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5469632174590565330)

[Grimlock]

Strolling out of the central hut, Kallik turns to Ace to congratulate him on finding the banner when he suddenly notices the new hunting pack of kobolds. He turns to Ace and mutters I can't make it all out Clearly, but that kobold talking to the guard is not happy. I get the impression he thinks the guards should have killed us. The other one is trying to calm him down. it could turn nasty, be prepared in case Booktooth can't control the situation

[Shadow_Elf]

I'm not too worried, my scaly friend. We have hostages, and... he pulls out his deck of cards and gestures with them quietly. between your magic and mine, we'd have no trouble making our way back to the others. He turns to Booktooth. We thank you, gracious Booktooth, for your exemplary hospitality. I shall immediately relay your request for the release of your fighting men, and my friends and I shall be on our merry way.

[Dekkah]

DM
At Ace words, Booktooth snap back from his thougths and do an heavy sigh.
"Jusst go now, resspect your deal and I will make ssure my clan resspect it too."
He then walk toward the hunting leader.
As you pass behind the huts, the 2 kobolds there glare at you, but leave you go. You reach safely the others.
You can see that Booktooth is using his autority to submit the hunter leader.

What do you guys do?

[Shadow_Elf]

Okay, my friends! We have succeeded in retrieving the objects for which we came. We shall let the prisoners walk down towards the camp, and at the same time depart - best to not leave any chance for our scaly friends to ah... - he gives the village a sidelong glance - ...change their minds, once they're secured the prisoners.

[Grimlock]

The Dragonborn glances down to the village and then turns back to look at the othersI think everything will be okay, but I don't believe we should wait unneccesarily. We have what we came for, let's go back to Grandvent. He looks over to Baldric, Did we hurt anyone too badly? Any chance the kobolds will come after us once we return the hostages?

[V for Victory]

Yeah, let's go back to Grandvent.

[Dekkah]

DM
You all free the kobolds prisoners and leave using the mountain to be able to see the kobolds as you go. Booktooth appears to have everything under control and no one pursue you. You walk the rest of the day up until the darkness to put up the most possible distance between you and the village, using the river to hide your tracks. You make camp, making guard rounds.
The night was calm and the morning comes quickly.


June 13-14 :
Your all refreshed in the morning. You travel for 1 and an half day under a blazing sun. Behing mainly into the forest, you cant really benefit much of it, but it is still better than under heavy rain. you dont encounter anything beside some small animals.
You arrive at Grandvents around dinner time.
As you walk into the town, you spot sir De L'Aurore speaking with the smith who is closing his shop. As they spot you come in, they salute you and Filass says,
"Hello again, happy to see you."
He then turn to the smith and tells him,
"These gentlemens and I have some buisness to discuss, I'll see you later at the Inn."
Returning his attention to you, he continues
"Follow me."
He lead you to his house, doing small talk about the weather, but you can see he is struggling not to ask about your mission, keeping it under control only so people around doesn't learn about it.
As you enter the house, he ask Gaston to bring some drink and food and lead you to the same room you met him before. He sit behind is desk and motion for you to take seats, and ask with hope plainly written on his face,
"So, were we lucky?"

Well done, you the first group who succeed without kicking the whole village butt ;).
I forgot to give you XP for the first fight (in the mountain) (125 each).
The investigation/dealing with Booktooth was worth 125 XP each .
Even if you didnt kill the village, I give you most of its XP as a bonus since it was a potential treath and real danger (beleive me) : 200XP each.
With the skill challenge your up to 500 XP, I'll put your XP count in the first post IN OOC and keep it updated there. the new players are at the same total XP as the others.

Now I skipped the travel, but if you want to do something during it (discuss or the like, just say roleplay it IC. I assumed you followed Filass in the town and narated up to his house.

For the travels, use 2 rations (or whatever).

[Shadow_Elf]

We were indeed lucky, Sir De L'Aurore! We managed to retrieve the papers and the banner, without killing a single kobold, thus giving them no cause to return to your fine city seeking revenge. My companions and I would be happy to give you all the details, at your leisure, but we have the items you want with us right now. The Vistani card shark motions to whoever was tasked with holding the items to suggest they present them to the mayor.

[Dekkah]

DM
A wide smile appear on Filass face,
"Gracious Erathis blessing! That is a great news."
As he takes the papers and banner and inspect them, you can plainly see some releif.
"I cant express how truely happy this makes me me. Your all invited to stay here tonight and I'll have some good dinner cooked for you all. Gaston, make the arrangments for these... six guest."
He appear to just have realisez Doru presence, he smile shyly and give a nod,
"I guess you found them."
Returning his gaze quickly on his treasures retreived, he realize what he have to do,
"I'll take care of the report to the academy I have to write for you while you refresh yourselves. Dont be afraid, you will graduate. We will discuss what happended over a hot meal later."
At this, Gaston tell you,
"If you sires will follow me, I'll show you to your rooms"
If you wanted to sak Filass something, you had time, so just roleplay it.
Unless you guys want to roleplay the dinner, I can narate what will happen and what comes after that. It is your call. Just give me your opinion in OOC about it please. I'll decide tommorow based on your replies.

[Grimlock]

Kallik smiles at Gaston, thankyou, a comfortable room will be most welcome. He glances at the others and waits until GAston has lead the way to the door and says quietly for the other party members to hear.I think we should meet in one of our rooms when we are alone and talk about what we have just retrieved, Filass seemed quite desparate to get these papers back.

[Dekkah]

DM
Gaston leads you to 6 spacious rooms. Your offered some bath before the meal. You can easyly all meet into one room after they are assigned to each of you to discuss.

[Shadow_Elf]

Kallik smiles at Gaston, thankyou, a comfortable room will be most welcome. He glances at the others and waits until GAston has lead the way to the door and says quietly for the other party members to hear.I think we should meet in one of our rooms when we are alone and talk about what we have just retrieved, Filass seemed quite desparate to get these papers back.

Well, I read the papers - they're proof of his command over the city. He needs those papers if he leadership is ever challenged - each moment that wasted away with us coming here or searching for them was a moment in which a rival could challenge his leadership, muses Ace, after Gaston has left. I figure the banner was tacked on simply because he knew the kobolds had it too, and he figured he'd get back the lost heirloom while he was recovering something even more important. What I'm wondering is how those kobolds managed to get their scaly little hands on those papers in the first place...

[Grimlock]

Kallik enters Ace's room after a bath, his scales all gleaming copper and bronze. After listening to Ace he replies Has anyone heard if anyone else in the city lost any valuable documents, or was it just Filass? If it was just him, maybe he was targeted. He looks around at the others. While Ace and I were searching for these we saw weapons, gold, food, almost as if someone was stockpiling resources and supplies, it may be a coincidence, but I'm not sure.

[Shardan]

Baldric chuckles, "I do not think the kobolds are collectors of rare documents. Do you really think they came accross something of that ilk by accident. Of course they were stockpiling weapons, gold, and food. That is normal and ordinary. But a band of kobolds stealing ancient documents.. No. Something more is amiss. I would guess at first, that someone hired them to steal those documents. If it were a rival, why did they not take advantage of the time they had?"

[Grimlock]

Kallik turns to Baldric. You make a good point my friend. Normal loot is well ... normal for kobolds. But to take such specific papers. He pauses and looks thoughtful. It suggests that someone is going to make a play for control of the city. What exactly do we know about Filass? I know we were sent here and my instincts are to trust our teachers. So I think we ask if there is anyone whohas a grudge against him at the moment.

[Shadow_Elf]

A wonderful idea! Filass, if he doesn't already realize it, should be made aware postehaste that he has someone taking aim at his position. Maybe he'll know some names, and we can run some interrogations? I would feel bad leaving a good town like this in the middle of a potential power struggle, says Ace, mock sympathy on his face, though its clear to his friends that the Vistani really just wants to stay for the adventure.

[Grimlock]

Hah! Yes, Ace, your concern is legendary! He grins at his friend. I must say I too am intrigued by what could be happening in this place... and a little excitement and adventure would not go amiss either.

[Shardan]

"But recall back. Filass had been most disturbed by how long we had taken to arrive to take this mission. Why did the erpetrators not take advantage of that time... We are missing something I feel.."

[Shadow_Elf]

Ever insightful, Baldrick, we are indeed missing part of this picture... Ace considers something, but then shakes his head. I had a thought, but it couldn't be right... maybe the perpetrators didn't act because they don't intend to? What, hypothetically, the perpetrators were us? By us, I mean the Academy, of course - what if they had the kobolds steal the documents just to set up this elaborate examination? Ace seems concerned by his own idea, but isn't ready to dismiss it as a possibility.

[Shardan]

"My bigger fear, is that we may have handed proof of rulership to a fake. But no. He was here long before they were stolen in the first place.

[Grimlock]

Surely the academy would not stoop to setting this up! Filass must have asked for aid, this was a purposeful use of our skills. Kallik looks at his companions and sounds almost desperate in his desire to believe in the Academy. He pauses for a moment to think.What do you know of them, the Academy and our tutors I mean? I came to it almost by accident, hearing of it on my travels and making my way there to seek help. But what do we know of them as people.
History check [roll0] just to see if there is any extra knoweldge Kallik knows about the academy and if theyare capable of manipulating things
(OOC Edit-after results of that rubbish roll)
I mean, some of our tutors could be on the suspicious side and would be perfectly capable of this, but would they really risk the reputation of the Academy?

[Dekkah]

DM
A knock on the door disturb your conversation, followed by Gaston voice,
"The dinner is ready, if you would come out and follow me please."

You can continue your discussion if you want, but it would be impolite to make them wait. (Gaston will wait outside patiently, where he can probably listen in your conversation if he want to unless you lower your voices).
You also can say a thing or two before leaving the room immediatly- just roleplay it if you do so.
I assume you go for now ;)

You follow Gaston to the dionner room. As you enter it, you can see and smell a deliciouly spiced roasted deer placed on the middle of an old styled table. Around the table are 8 chairs of the same style and of high quality. The dinner room is located on the main floor, and is nicely decorated like Filass office. There is 2 nice paintings and 3 small statues. The huge window gives a view on the village and Ter'Yav forest behind it. You can see that the Inn is quite full like the last time you've gone there.
Filass greets you with a smile,
"Welcome friends, this feast is for you. Take a seat and dig in!"
He take a seat at the table and Gaston start to cut slices of the deer. Two maids will come into the room, bringing fresh vegetables, bread, wine and water.
They will serve you what you want. The food is delicious and wine of quality.
After a few bites, Filass will ask,
"So, where did you find my papers, what happened in there?", finish Filass pointing at the forest.

[Grimlock]

Kallik calls over one of the servants and asks for wine. He takes a sip before beginning to talk.Well Sir, we tracked the Kobolds back to their village, where we were then attacked by the kobolds, but fortunately my companions were wise enough to suggest only incapacitating our attackers adn not killing them. After 'disabling' many of the kobolds a truce of sorts was reached. Kallik looks over to his friends and pauses for another sip of wine. While Baldric tended to the wounded Kobolds and the others kept a close lookout on the village, Ace and myself searched it for your missing items. We found them amongst a stockpile of food, gold, weapons and other banners! We were able to talk the kobold leader into returning your papers and the banner, we returned our hostages and here we are! He glances at the others before continuing. Sir De L'Aurore, do you know if anyone else in the city was had anything stolen along the same lines as you, I mean it is unusual for kobolds to take documentation? If so, could you tell us who, if not, why might you be targeted in such a way?

(OOC i don't know if you want any rolls, but here are some, just in case)
Insight- [roll0]
Diplomacy- [roll1]
Perception- [roll2]

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace takes a bite of some of his delicious food, his posture and utensil method the very model of court custom, despite his caravan, wandering lifestyle prior to the Academy. He swallows, and adds on to Kallik's explanation. Their Chieftain wanted desperately to prevent bloodshed, but the war captain and the hunt master both wanted to betray our trust and kill us - if ever you must try to reason with these kobolds, you should ask to speak with Booktooth, the rat master. He takes another bite. Booktooth did warn us of something though - he said that the warchief, who's name escapes me, is always reluctant to part with his trophies. He warned that the war chief may lead another raid, on Grandvents or another nearby town, to acquire more trophies to compensate.

[Shardan]

Unlike Ace, Baldric shows his rough and uncouth upbringing during the dinner. "Moradin knows we were lucky to have tried our gambit when we did and not when the warlord was home. I suggest you have two options. One is to increase your towns defenses so that you can stave off the kobolds. The other is to give him his prizes. some gaudy, useless costume jewelry or armourments should make him much happier than some old papers."

He wipes his mouth on his sleeve before reaching for another roll.

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass listen to Kallik description with interest.
When he is done, he answer him.
"Wow, you really walked in a kobold village like that. Your braver than I could ever be. Anyway, I am quite happy you didnt stir their ire too much by killing some of them.
To answer you honestly, I dont really know if other "unusual" things got stolen, but I doubt it. I beleive I would have heard of it if so. I know Deserte got hit before us and it was quite the same. The only weird thing that got stolen was an old family battle axe which was hangon the wall in the mayor house. It is nice looking but so old and fragile that it couldnt really be used. But as Bastien told me, kobold arent really bright I guess and probably will use it."
Pondering Kallik last statement, Filass will say,
"So you think I might have been targeted? I must say I wondered the same thing at first, but no one really challenged my rights or anything, and they kinda had time you know.
Beside, why would someone want to take my place or make me fall? This town is doing quite well, I can admit that, but I am far from making lot of profit or anything. In reality, we are doing well, because I dont abuse my townfolks. We work more like a community, helping each others. Of course, I do have some people who dislike me, like anyone else, but I cant see who and why someone would want to lesser my noble rights."

Listening to Ace warning, Filass nods,
"I appreciate your warning, I'll warn our sheriff about this, so he can prepare in case of an assault. I dont remember seeing any ratmaster during the raid though. On the other, I beleive I did saw the warchief. He was among the ones who raided my house. He was wearing a full plate armor, using a battle axe and had a banner with a a green symbol on hit stuck over his shoulder. He appeared in control of the others and is the one that manage to kill one of our town militia guard."

At Baldrick suggestion, Filass ponders a minute and tells him,
"Do you really think that giving him back something of value might prevent them to come here again? If so, I am more than willing to try it, but to be honest, I wouldn't dare to do it myself. How much money would it cost me for you to try negociate this? I'd give you one of my recent banner and a family sword if need be so you can give them some more "trophies"."

[Grimlock]

The sword and banner may be a good idea.He looks over at Ace.Booktooth looked like he had things well under control, although it was a heated argument with the leader of the hunters...what do you think Ace? He shrugs and takes another quaff of wine. If other towns have been attacked though, this could be more than just a one off attacks on Grandvents and Deserte, something bigger maybe?

[Shadow_Elf]

Do not show them weakness, that's my two cents, muses Ace. They're like sharks - they smell weakness, they go for the jugular. Don't try to appease them, it would be better to, should they attack again, send them a message and off the warchief or huntmaster. That'll likely set em' straight better than a family sword and banner - if you give them peace offerings, they'll just keep coming back demanding more.

[Dekkah]

DM
As Baldrick speaks, some of you can see throught the window a man approach Filass house from the Town. When Filass notice him, it is certain he is coming to the mayor house, being now by Filass gate. Filass silently order Gaston to go answer the door, while listening to Ace.
"Then you suggest we should ignore them, and strike back if they attack us again. Since I dont know much about these monsters, I'll take your expertise at heart and relay this information to Malcom."
He then take a short pause to drink a bit of wine.
"So, what do you plan to do now? I guess you're all pretty wired to have completed this mission. It stands after all as your final exam, which means you will graduate - Congratulation to you all!
Speaking of which, here is my letter to your headmaster."
He then hand Ace a letter, which is quite heavy and appear to have many papers in it, sealed with De L'aurore family seal (http://picasaweb.google.com/Dekkah1/GrandpreAcademySecondGroup#5470492158713181506) stamped on a wax button.
Smiling he adds,
"Also, this is a small bonus for you all."
He then give a nod the one of the maid who pick up a tray on the small table and bring to each of you a small purse.
In the purse, there is 60 GP

[Grimlock]

Kallik graciously accepts the purse. Thankyou Sir, you are generous. Also I believe Ace is right about the show of strength, in hindsight. The dragonborn reaches for his wine and takes a drink. As for what we do next? I don't know. I know we need to graduate but I fancy seeing the world a bit first. Maybe Torres or another larger city. Or maybe see if there is any work to be had, adventures to be having! He looks at his friends, wordlessly inviting their thoughts.

[Dekkah]

DM
"You are welcome, this is..."
At that, Gaston comes back into the dinner room and await for Filass to give him permission to speak.
"Who was it Gaston?"
Gaston answer in his usual tone,
"This is a messenger from Bartos sir. I was about to dismiss him and ask him to wait by the Inn for you to go see him, but his news might be revelant for you all. It would appear that Bartos got hit by kobulds as well."
Filass face become serious and he nod to Gaston,
"Bring him in them Gaston."
Turning his attention to you while Gaston leave the room, he tell you,
"I guessed you wont mind, you might as well hear this from the messenger instead of a partial report from me or someone else."

A couple minutes later, a young man enter the room. He his is barely 20 years old and appear intimidated by all the people around the table.
Filass will tell him,
"Dont be shy lass, what are the news from Bartos?"
The yound man start tentatively,
"W-well sir, Bartos got attacked by kobolds l-like you warned us about. It h-happened tree days ago, at night, that same gang with the green claw on their banner. We didnt loose anyone during the fight and our mayor asked me to thanks you for that. Your advices and expereince from their attack on your town helped alot."
Turning his attention to you, Filass ask with a surprised tone,
"That is about the same time you were at the kobolds village isnt it?"

If you wanted to tell or ask something to Filass before the messenger enter, you can, just notify it is ask in that minute ;).

[Grimlock]

Just before Gaston comes in Kallik slips the ring he found in the village off his finger and shows it to Filass. I found this ring in the kobold village and wondered if you recognised anything about it. Some of the markings are old and link to Dragonborn I recongise that much, but on the off chance- do you know anything?

(After Gaston's entrance)
Hmmm, three days. Yes that sounds about right. We would have been at the village. Maybe the Hunting party that returned while we were there are the band that attacked Bartos. He turns to look at the young man and smiles. I'm glad no one lost their lives, but do you know if anything else was taken?

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass take a closer look at the ring.
"It does appear old, but I've never seen these markings. I am pretty sure they aren't from any noble families in this country. Well not the humans ones, I doubt they could be elven either. My knowledge on Dragonborns history is kinda lacking, so you could be right I guess."

The young man quickly answer Kallik,
"Well I know they stole a lot of goods. Oh yeah, they also stole the smith store name pannel. I guess that the kobold wanted to open a smith shop in their village.", finish th boy laughing nervously a couple seconds before stopping abruptly noting that no one else laugh.
"W-well, it is a joke going around the town..."

[Shadow_Elf]

Remind me, my friends... were the kobolds we visited flying a banner? I feel like I have forgotten something important... if they were not flying a banner with a green claw upon its surface, it is possible, even likely, that we may be dealing with two independent kobold clans. I think I would have noticed if the hunting party came with a boatload of stolen loot.

[Grimlock]

Kallik pauses for thought...I didn't notice a green banner or whether the kobolds had much loot on them. If this is becoming a trend we should watch out for it. I say we go and investigate this new attack. See if there are any similarities and whether our services will be of use. At the very least we should try to return the Smith's sign to him. He looks at his friends and grins a sharp toothed grin... What do you say? Shall we on another jaunt?

[Shardan]

"if I recall, did not the kobold's paths diverge in the woods at one point, seperating into multiple parties. Perhaps we are dealing with an alliance of smaller kobold villages?"

[Dekkah]

DM
Following your conversation, Filass add,
"Well, it is possible that it was multiples clans. I can check with Malcon, but I think the few we managed to kill all had the same green claw tatoo, but we killed only a few, so it still possbile there was more than one clan anyway. But why would they gather forces? They have been peacefull for some time now. What about your village kid? Any indication it was more than one clan?"

The messenger answer Filass,
"I dont know Sir. I know about the one banner, but I got no report on the kobold we've slain. I can go back to Bartos and verefy if you want, it will take me a couple days though."

Filass nods at the kid, then turn to you,
"What do you want to do? You might just go with him to see what hapenned at his village. At worst, it is on your way back to the Academy, if it turns out to be the same clan and uninteresting for you."

[Grimlock]

I think we must investigate this. It seems to be too much of a coincidence that two groups of Kobolds, both linked by the green tattoo have attacked towns near each other and taken seemingly innocuous items... he pauses as he realises his potential faux pas and turns to Filass, Uhm, not that I am saying that your papers and family banner are unimportant, but it seems unusual for Kobolds to take it. He looks at the others, It just seems too odd to ignore.

[Shadow_Elf]

Ace grins sheepishly. Well, it is on our way, no? I say we stop over in Bartos and do a little investigative work on our trip back to Grandpre.

[Dekkah]

DM
Filass nod,
"Well in any case, you are welcome for the night, you as well kid. I guess you all can travel toggether to return to Bartos tommorow."
The messenger nod his thanks to Filass,
"Thanks sir."

When you are all done quesitonning the mensenger, he will take his leave and Gaston will lead him to his room.
Filass will continue to small talk with you all until you are all fully replenished.

You all get a good night of sleep.

June 15 - 17 :
When you wake up, breakfast is ready. Filass is already eating with the messenger.
"Good morning. Take seat."
When you all seated, Filass will tell you,
"I spoke with Malcom this morning. As I remembered, all the kobold that we've slain here had the green paw tatoo."
He then continues some small talk.

When your all ready to leave, he will go with you to the door.
"Good luck friends. If you learn something, have Bartos keep me informed. And if you ever come this way again, pass by and say hello."

The messenger is ready to go, on his horse.
You will travel 2 and half days under a blazing sun. The messenger name is Gary and you will learn that he is a fisherman first and foremost. He only does messenger duty to round up some more money.

You arrive at Bartos the 17th around noon . It is a small fisherman village with no fortifications. They live mainly from fishing and hunting from what you can see. There is one small inn named The smiling fish.



First, if you had any more questions for the messenger, Filass or wanted to continue chatting among yourselves during the dinner feel free to do so.
I posted what comes next, taking assumptions from what you told me so far. If you wanted to do anything else into town before leaving or during the trip just roleplay it.
Unless you change something, your arrived at Bartos, what do you guys do?

You should spend 2 more rations for the trip.

[Grimlock]

Kallik looks down at Gary, It has been a pleasure to travel with you Gary, thanks for escorting us here. He looks around at the others I don't know about the rest of you, but I could do with a drink to wash this travel dust down. It will also give us a chance to ask around about the attack, maybe someone noticed something the others missed.
(OOCAssuming the others agree with this- if they don't, ignore what I have written and I'll do soething else)

He strolls into The Smiling Fish and wlks over tothe bar. Ahoy there barman, a pint of any good ale you may have. He flips a coin onto the table. Also, my friends and I have come to investigste the recent kobold attack. Can you give us any information?

Diplomacy [roll0] Streetwise [roll1] Insight [roll2]
Edit- (OOC- damn that was a rubbish Insight Roll, however the other two were good, better than my usual rubbishness! )

[Dekkah]

DM
As you walk into town, there is a few people. You spot a couple stores.
When you see the smith shop, you can see an empty spot where probably have been his sign.
As you enter the Inn, the barman look up at you.
"Welcome strangers."
The inn is empty right now. It is a lot smaller than Grandvent inn. There is only 5 tables.
At Kallik request, the innkeeper pop up a mug and fill it with ale.
"Here you go sir."
He then pocket the coin,
"So you heard about it already eh? Well, it happened nearly a week ago at dusk. They say there was about 30 of these little bastards running around town. They were quite organised from what I heard you know. They moved in groups and mainly do hit and run tactics, to rout people around. I know most of the villagers came here to get some shelter you know. They say Syl'than did a great job with the defenses. Of course they didnt fight them head on, this town militia isnt really trained you know. But at least, no one died. These stinky buggers were here for the loot anyway you know. They took lot of good stuff, but nothing we cant replace I guess. If you really want more details, you should go see Syl'than, he is the town sherif you know. His office is the green building near the lake, you cant miss it."
Inn prices :
Stay : 5 SP
Food :5 SP
Ale : 1 SP
Wine : 5 SP
Hot Bath : 7 SP

[Dekkah]

DM
Just as you were about to reply, the innkeeper says extending a hand toward to front door.
"Well speaking of the devil."

You all see a tell and muscular elf enter the inn. He wears some hide armour and carry 2 longsword and a longbow. There is a sunshaped ingisna on his leather armour. He appear calm and serious. He walk toward you and say,
"Well met strangers, welcome to Bartos. I am Syl'than, sherif of Bartos. Gary just reported to me and told me you came into town to investigate about the koblods attacks. Lets sit and discuss."
Syl'than move to the closest table and sit.
When your all seated he start speaking,
"There was 32 kobolds during the assault. We managed to slay 5 of them, but killing wasnt our main priority. When I was sure the townsfolk were safe, I tracked them and managed to find the kobold group. I followed them up to their small village, somewhere on the north flank of the Green Peaks. They call themselves the "Green Paws" from what I know. When they arrived into their town, there was a big argument between the leader of the raiders and their shaman. I stayed up to the next day to make sure they would not come right back, but the fighters settled into town, and even the small patrols, that split up from the main forces during the trip back into their town, arrived the next day with some more food. That is when I left and came back to Bartos."
He take a short pause, breaking his dull tone, before adding,
"What else do you need to know? And what do you plan to do with these kobolds?"

[Arq Kujos]

"How about if you could use another hand to aid you during your troubles?" Another Elf, this one an Eladrin, walked in and smiled at Syl'than. He was slightly tall, standing around 6 ft. and he was well muscled, for an elf. He was wearing a set of well maintained Leather armor with a simple silk shirt under it. He had a small pack for carrying things and a large sword that hung behind him at his waist. His blond hair and bright, azure blue eyes did give him an almost otherworldly feel.

"Dear cousin." he said as he clasped the sheriff's arm. "What is all this I hear of you having problems with invaders? Surely you can handle a few Kobolds." He reached up and patted him on the shoulder. "If you need a little help, I'd be happy to aid you. I'll even wave my normal fee, seeing as how we are family and all." The Eladrin reached inside his shirt and removed a letter. He held it out to Syl'than. "Speaking of family, you father sent me to bring you this." Just now realizing that Syl'than was busy with work, the elf turned and bowed. "I do apologize for my rudeness. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Eliael Salas. It is an honor to meet you all." Eliael held out a hand in polite friendship, but on it was a ring that glistened gold in the light. It was the ring of a graduated adventurer from the Academy.

[Dekkah]

DM
As he hear Eliael voice, a faint smile breaks Syl'than serious face. He stand to great him and reply,
"Well met cousin, good to see you. I am not planing to do anything more than keep an eye on them for now. These little pest usually leave us alone, and beside, this town militia isnt fit to wage a war, even a small one against a lowly kobold clan."
He continues turning toward you,
"It is these young mens that appears to have some more interest on the kobolds from what I've heard from my messenger."
You all remember seeing Eliael at the Academy, when you first came in, he was one of the few student left in the 5th years.

[Arq Kujos]

Interest in Kobolds? Why would you care about them?" There was a hint of interest in Eliael's voice as he looked the adventurers up and down. "Hmm, something about you lot strikes me as familiar, but I cannot seem to place my finger on it." Eliael stroked his chin for a moment as he contemplated.

[Shadow_Elf]

When Syl'than initially enters, Ace extends his hand to shake hands. Well met, good sheriff. I am The Ace of Spades, and these are my companions. We were on our way back to Grandpre when we heard about your troubles with kobolds here in Bartos. The Vistani tips his bowler hat, revealing the blood red ribbon of the Vistani Caravans wrapped around his head, and then flips it back onto his head.

After they have sat down and Syl'than explains the situation somewhat, Ace will ask did their shaman command a swarm of rats around his feet? Grandvents had some kobold trouble as well, trouble we have just returned from resolving, where more of these Green Paw kobolds attacked them and stole objects of value - but they had a village of their own, and I am starting to think these kobolds may have less in common than we thought.

When the flashy, somewhat rude Eladrin enters and interrupts the sheriff, Ace will eye him carefully under the rim of his bowler hat, careful not to give away any judgements. When he sees the ring, however, a grin spreads across his face. Eliael! Perhaps you remember me, from the Academy? My companions and I are students but a few years behind yourself. I'm sure I've played poker with you before... I usually remember best the games where I make the most money, laughs Ace, with a grin. So, the good sheriff is your cousin?

Since Dekkah said we recognized you, Arq, I made some assumptions. Ace is wont to rip people off playing cards, so I figured that was the most likely connection :smalltongue:. He rips people off in a fair and friendly manner, though. Now, if any checks are needed:

Insight: [roll0]
Perception: [roll1] +4 if the d20 comes up even.
Diplomacy: [roll2]