Dragonapalooza [Adventure Thread]

[dresdor]

OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9236603#post9236603)
Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9236610#post9236610)

"Time is continuous, and also cyclical.
It flows in seconds, minutes, hours, days, years,
And even the ages themselves are a cycle.
As we go forward through time, we move backward.

The Ages past will repeat themselves,
Soon we will find ourselves at the begining.
The Ages past, the Ages to come,
Til the Annihilator breaks time itself."
-An excerpt from The Study of Temporal Magic by High Magus Darion Wellspring, published in the Age of Wonders, circa 1740 AW.

On the dawn of a new century, the promise of a golden era rang from every kingdom. Long feuding enemies set aside their spears to pick up the pen to sign treaties and forge alliances. For the first time in one hundred years, there were no wars in the twelve kingdoms. It was a time of happiness and surplus after many hard winters and thin harvests. It was bliss and happiness...

And then the Dragons came.

For reasons yet unknown, a grand alliance of vile dragons has formed itself. Reports claim they have attacked all twelve of the kingdoms, and have driven men and beings of all races fleeing for their lives. They have wrought destruction and death in their wake, and none seem safe from their onslaught. So terrible is their coming that the last act of the Senate before the chambers were melted in dragonflame was to declare this new era the Age of Dragons.

And so you find yourselves trapped in a broken and largely abandoned city. Dragons can still be seen in the air, hunting whatever food they can find still roaming the streets. You scrounge for what you can find, keenly and carefully aware that these dragons could also be hunting treasure, and the enchanted items that allow you to be powerful adventurers and heroes may be the very things that lead to your discovery. Each of you finds their way to a simple wooden door, marked with a golden eye. It is unusual and peaks your interest. You feel compelled to enter, and find the door unlocked. You descend into darkness....

Beyond the door is the interior of a small building. The walls are stone, butressed by wooden frames and there is a hearth with a small fire glowing. You are suddenly aware of others around you, and find several people that seem equally surprised to see you. In front of the fire is a tall armchair. There is an open archway to the right that reveals what seems to be a storage area or larder with chests and cabinets. To the right is an open doorway revealing a bedroom or barracks with several beds, each with its own footlocker. A soft muttering can be heard from the chair.

The entire area feels oddly, and makes your skin tingle. Still, given the dragon apacolypse outside, maybe the unknown is preferable to violent dragon death.

[OMG PONIES]

Avery Harrington

A weathered-looking man shuffles in, takes a few measurements of the doorway, and sets his pack on the ground. He rubs his hands as he nears the fire, crossing to see who is sitting in the chair.

[Yucca]

Carmen Sells
Cautiously a woman of medium height descends the stairway. Slowly and quietly drawing her Kama as she enters the room she keeps her back to the wall.

She leans forward to concentrate on the sounds she hears from the chair.

Listen: [roll0]

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

A big ape wearing a breatplate enters the room, two leather ribbons are stratching towards his back where a small saddle becomes visible when he enters the room complete. Stretching out you can see it's a magnificent muscled ape. Some battlescars show on it's face. It makes a strange sound.
Well done Tarzan, be carefull now, you never know what the others here would do to you. You're quite big you now. And yes I know this place feels strange, and no I do not trust it thank you for the warning though. A small Whisper Gnome enters the room. He moves slowly, deliberatly like he is checking everything out. His voice sounded friendly towards the ape. The Gnome wears an armor which looks like it's made from scales, a small black wooden shield on his arm. The ape moves a bit towards a corner and stands there on paws and feet but looks like it could attack anyone in the room if they would provoke him.

I hope you could excuse my furry friend here. He is quite protective concerning me. He is not a bad guy though if you learn to know him. I would not know what I could do without him. But first things first things first what am I doing here, and what are you doing here? The gnome carries no visible weapons, but around his neck is a small necklace made from ropelike stuff and hanging on it is a strange vinelike hanger.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone

The dim clanking sound of metal echoes through the room as a fully armored knight descends the staircase into the room. He stands tall enough that he is required to stoop as he enters the room (the stairwell was not too high).

As he reaches the floor he scans the room through the eyelet of his helmet. He can see the Druid and his Ape, the Artificer warming his hands by the fire, the Factotum, kama drawn and by his guess making an attempt to use the darkness of the room to conceal herself. His enhanced vision made sure that they would not escape his notice.

As he took a few steps further, the light from the fireplace shone on him more. The light reflected off of his armor, not intensely but in a muted fashion. His shield was slung on his back, and a sheathed longsword was hung from his hip to his left, with his left hand on the pommel. A scarf hung from around his neck to about his waist. It had no noticable embroidery or designs, but was a solid Tyrian Purple. His helmet was extended forward, a but more than should be on the typical humanoid.

Making environmental Listen/Spot checks

Listen: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh

The dangerous end of a spear leading a young man finds it's way into the room. He's oddly dressed if not only half-armored. A metal cap hides shaggy blond locks. Around his neck, a string of broken shells lays over the chain shirt to compliment his white sarong. In his non-speared hand he holds a wooden shield; the edge decorated in waves and in the middle a green leafed face.

He looks around at the others in the room with him. Not obviously alarmed, but with spear raised all the same. "Seeking shelter from demon lizards outside, same as you I would imagine." He responds to the Whisper Gnome, lowering his weapon slightly.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

If it were demon lizards it would be easier to get rid of them. I heared about powerfull mages who could banish entire armies of demons from this plane to another. Besides I did not know what drove me to here. It seemed as the door I went through called out my name. Like it needed me to go in here. So I would like to know why? Fahs says while sitting down in front of the ape. He seems not overly concerned about all the persons in the room. Slowly he grabs his dagger and starts to get some earth away from under his nails. Tarzan still looks carefully around.

[OMG PONIES]

Avery

The older man pulls out a pipe, lights it, and takes a drag. He leaves it hanging in his mouth, causing small smoke clouds to puff out of it when he speaks.

"One question nobody's asked," he mutters, "is how we can all be sure the other isn't just a damned dragon in some alternate form, waiting for the others to fall asleep so he can have himself a snack. My evidence is that I'm not the most charismatic sumbitch on the planet, as all dragons seem to be. And the rest of you?"

He raises an eyebrow towards the others in attendance, placing a hand on his belt. Closer inspection reveals that his hand is hovering near a wide selection of wands in holsters.

[Yucca]

Carmen

That means nothing. There are people who readily do the bidding of the dragons. I've killed many such people in my time, and I will kill any of you should this turn out to be the case. You don't have to be good looking, or even pleasant to be around, in order to be a pawn of theirs.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

We can't be sure, but one thing that would prove who the dragon would be is that he would say what you said. But let's not fight. I mean why should we when we do not even know who we are and what we do. Everyone of us could be a dragon, well, let's go for now that no one is a dragon unless proven otherwise. The name is Fash Dergel, apprentice of Alth Shrenan, warrior of the Groves and kiler of the green dragons Groam and Treao, Alth I mean than, not me. I have to admit that even though I despise them I have never killed a dragon in my life. And who are you? And who is in that chair? Fash says while keeping playing with his knife.

[Yucca]

Carmen

No, it proves nothing. Pointing out the obvious allays suspicion from oneself in the minds of some others, but does not actually prove anything. Dragons are nothing if not clever. One has to be smarter than them to kill them.

I am Carmen, I kill dragons. Many have died from my steel. Beyond that none of you need to know for now.

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh chuckles a bit at the gnome's comment.

"Dragons, yes. The peoples of my homeland had many names for them." Letting the spear slide down in his hand, he brings the less dangerous end rest on the floor of the room. "I am Lugh of the Ebb and Flow, Priest of the Shalm. I am no dragon. Neither are you, until proven otherwise. The days are too dark now, and help scarce. Our time is better spent reaching out than keeping others away with our suspicions." The young man nods his head to punctuate his words.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone

"My name is Cavalone of Arvindor. I too have hunted dragons in my life, and in that respect I can testify for Carmen's words. Dragons are extremely dangerous, and are both clever and powerful. You sir, Fash Degrel, have never slain a dragon? Know that it is a dangerous task--I have lost many good friends to the worms, and with care we shall not lose others."

He turned his attention to the chair sitting in front of the glowing fireplace.

"I too have an interest in whoever is in the chair. I think it would be detrimental to continue to question his identity. I think I speak for all of us in politely asking that we have an audience with our mysterious host."

Diplomacy Check to grab attention of chair-man
[roll0]

[dresdor]

"You will forgive me, I am unused to visitors, especially since fate robbed me of my sight and most of my hearing. Few come to visit a blind and deaf man whom fate will not let simply die." A grizzled old man with a long white beard and glazzed sightless eyes fumbles out of the chair, turning to face the staircase. He holds onto the chair for supports.

"I do not know why you have come here, nor how. I was told when this home was made for me that none would disturb me unless I willed it. I do not recall wishing for company. Much less company speaking of dragons as if they were knocking on the door and hungry."

[Yucca]

Carmen

Old man, I have no authority to speak for the others, only for myself. I was drawn here, not against my will, but within it. I would hazard a guess that the rest of this motley assemble would agree.

You say that fate has designs on you, and you say this home was made for you. Yet is is clearly intended to house a number of people. I say fate seems to have designs on all of us.

What power made this home for you? I expect it is the same power that drew me here.

While speaking I attempt to size up the old man standing in front of me.
Using the Assess Opponent rules from CAdv I make a sense motive roll to make a guess at his CR.
Sense Motive: [roll0]

[dresdor]

Requested Skill Check Responses:

Carmen

Listen: The noises from the chair sound like labored breathing, and maybe someone talking to themselves. This seems to be confirmed by the old blind man.

Sense Motive: You assess the old man as just what he seems; a very old feeble man. You alone or the group here could kill him in one round.


Cavalone:

Spot: You notice nothing really about the interior, except that it seems to be larger on the inside than the crumbled buildings around the doorway could contain.

Listen: You notice that there is a lack of the sounds of terror outside. There are no dragon screams here, nor are there sounds of crumbling buildings or burning rubble. Maybe the walls are well insulated, or maybe there is more at work here.


IC:

The old man turns in the direction Carmen spoke from, staring into space in her direction. "Someone made this place for me. I do not know who. They were kind to me. I do not know their purposes, nor their intent, but I have lived here for some time...time is strange here. It could have been for a day or maybe an Age. Forgive me, but my mind is not what it used to be. The last I remember of the outside world was the crowning of Prince Marslin to the Gold Throne of Carnor.

None of your remember Prince Marslin, but the Gold Throne is part of a children's tale.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Seeing that the old man is going to be of little help, Carmen scans the room for anything that may. She nods silently and makes a short affirmative noise to be polite to the speaker.

OOC:
I'm looking for any type of writing, books, artwork. Anything that the blind man wouldn't have here for himself.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

I would hate to bring this to you, but the only thing I know about the golden throne is from the stories my mom told me. She also told me that those stories were older than my grandparents, which means a lot. We Gnomes are one of the longer living species in this world. If what you say is correct though fate has indeed brought us here. So the question would be more how we could leave this house, or find out what it wants from us. We were all drawn here, but that does not mean it's well to be here and stay. I do not wish to invade your house sir. Fash's ape is laying down while Fash is talking to the man. Fash pets the ape's head tenderly while keeping his eye on the man. The ape is enjoying the touch, but there is still a glint of waryness in his eyes and if you look well you see it's not completely relaxed and is still ready to attack.

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh studies the old man as he speaks, bracing himself against the chair. "I know not of your prince or of thrones, grandfather. You say that this place was made for you? How are you provided for?" he says as he approaches. Reaching the old man, he sets his hand on hi shoulder lightly. "Is there anything that you require, grandfather? I am a man of faith. Your bones look tired and I know of healing." Lugh says in a warm, sincere tone.

[dresdor]

Carmen
In the "storage" room you catch a glimpse of a large bookshelf, and a desk with a book, quill and ink set out on it. Other than that there is nothing you can find without an actual search.

The old man starts as if he was lost in thought, he turns in the approximate direction of Fash. "This place was made for me, but it is hardly mine. I merely dwell here. I have not been outside in a very long time, and I am very old....I do not know how old anymore, it is hard to keep track of dates and times when you are alone in a world of darkness and left to your own thoughts. There were once others who visited me, men from every land who came and talked and brought news to me, but they have dwindled and none have come for many years...at least I think it is years. Perhaps longer, perhaps not. As I said, fate binds me here for a time, until the cycle repeats. Age to Age and Era to Era until the Destroyer comes, is broken, and life starts anew." The last part he recites as if it was a catechism, though it is not one any of you recognize. The Destroyer is a monster also out of those children's tales, that if you misbehaved would come and snatch you and do horrible things to you.

He then turns and looks to the wall at Lugh's left. "I thank you for your offer of healing, but my blindness and loss of hearing are from age. I am bound to this mortal flesh for a time still, but it ages even in this sanctuary. As to this place, I cannot recall why it was made, nor how I came here. A great wizard constructed it out of the finest twists of arcane power. It exists, I understand, outside our world, but still attached to it. Like a spider's web sits accross a beam but is not part of the house. It is certainly a mysterious place. The larder never runs short on food, and the fire always burns though I do not need to add wood. The water barrel also is never empty. It is a strange place, though magic can do such things."

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen moves to the storage room to examine the bookshelf and the desk.

[dresdor]

Carmen
The writing table is covered in a thick layer of dust, and the parchment seems to be aged to the point of crumbling to dust itself. You recognize the writing as draconic, but it is a fairly old version of the language (given the lifespan of dragons, that is saying something about the age of the writing). The hand is firm, though many parts of the parchment are illegible. It mentions the Prophecies of the Destroyer and a handful of names. It also references a few titles that can only be books, though ones you have never heard of, mentioning them as translations of the ancient texts.

The books on the shelf certainly meet that description. They all seem to be about magic (at least by the fact they are all in draconic and seem covered in runes and glyphs of the language). They seem very old as well but in a little better condition than the parchment. Moving them may still damage them, and there is no indication that the paper inside is as well preserved as the covers.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen studies the book quickly (she took Draconic as a known language). She tried to recognize any names? She also scans the room, bookshelf, desk looking for anything marked with the same unusual golden eye symbol that was on the front door.

The whole time she tries to keep listening to the ongoing conversation in the other room.

Listen:1d20+5

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

I understand sir. And I apologize for the intruding of your home I and Tarzan have done. I would like to know why we are here though. I hoped the one that lived here could tell me that. But sadly you are as much a victim as we are. Or maybe even more so, for fate is most of the time cruel even though he means it well.

[dresdor]

Carmen
You do not recognize any of the titles as books you know or have heard about. You do notice the golden eye symbol next to an author's name. The book is called The Breaking of Time; The Annihilator and the End of Days by D. Wellspring. The Golden eye follows the name. Looking through the pile of books, it is the only book by the author.

Fash
"I do not remember the last time I had visitors, but all this talk of dragons and the lot, it really is bad luck. The uprising of the last age was bad enough, without you all calling the dragons down upon us."

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Good sir, does this house only goes forward in time, or would it also be able to go backwards. If it could go backwards maybe we can do something about this situation. If not maybe it's best we leave you be and leave you alone. With our apologies off course.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone
Would it be a wise decision to leave, however? Despite our hopeful combat superiority in our combined presence, we still require a place to rest and hide ourselves from our draconic enemies. Perhaps there is a purpose to our being here as well as the existence of this bastion. If your house would not recieve visitors unless you willed it, perhaps there is another force in this matter that has willed our presence here. Otherwise, it seems not a coincidence that our destinations met at this particular place. How many other doors there could we have walked through, but for this place? Someone, or something wants us to take shelter from the draconic menace, and I believe that the place is here. Forgive me, I am only speculating.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

There is truth in your words. One thing that seems to be off though is where we entered this room. Even though we came through the same door not long after each other I have not seen any of you. Nor did Tarzan smell you untill well, we were here in this room. So maybe there is a plan for us. That does not mean though we should bother someone that does not wish to be bothered. I would hate to impose on someone.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen pauses a moment and takes some time to search her memory to see if she knows anything about the symbol or the author from her studies.

Know (Religion) for the symbol:[roll0]

Know (Arcana) for the symbol:[roll1]

Know (Arcana) for the author:[roll2]

[dresdor]

"We all move forward through time, though most at a consistent pace. Time travels much more swiftly outside this house than inside. If you all entered the door within moments on this side, it could have been minutes or hours from where you came. You have been here for perhaps a quarter hour, but it could be days from where you came. I do not pretend to understand this place, nor do I mind the intrusion, but if you seek purpose, perhaps it is to avoid whatever is looking for you. If you were to disappear for a day or week, they may move on, thinking you have departed as well."

Carmen
The symbol is a marker for a High Magus within the Arcane Guild (albeit there haven't been any High Magi in a century or more). The author is a noteworthy magic theorist from a few centuries ago. The book also looks like an original text. The only thing you know of the author is that he wrote about time magic, temporal theory, and was considered either a revolutionary or a crackpot depending on whom you asked. He was also a great linguist and translated many older works.

[Yucca]

Carmen

OOC:
Does Carmen's knowledge of Wellspring include how/when he died? I'd think a 29 on a knowledge check would give me such details.

Carmen returns to the sitting room after a few moments in the study. She waits for a pause in the conversation, trying not to interrupt the host or any of her fellow guests.

When she sees an opening, she asks, "Our host, how well did you know High Magus Wellspring?"

[dresdor]

Carmen
His recorded death was 1890 AW, about 2100 years ago. His cause of death is disputed, the most common believe is that he died in an explosion in his laboratory due to a failed experiment.



"Wellspring?" He seems confused for a moment. "Darion Wellspring made this place. He is the reason I am here I suppose. I had one of his books, I brought it with me here, not that it does much for a blind man to try to read. Signed an everything, must be worth a fortune now...or maybe not. If too much time has passed, it will be worthless as nobody will remember him. But you, you know him how?"

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh stands back listening to the conversation. He follows as best he can, but the talk of time makes his head swim. "We make our own fate," he chimes in finally in response to the old man. "I agree, though, that combining our forces could prove useful in the fight against the dragons. Rest, likewise, would be beneficial."

The young priest steps back when the woman, Carmen, returns.

[Yucca]

Carmen

I know of Wellspring from my studies, but only barely. Few if any of his studies amounted to anything, and almost no one uses his theories today. He is known mainly for his translations of other works, his original contributions are poorly regarded to the point of ridicule. A linguist and an editor, not a High Magus.

He is commonly held up as an example of high class genius that has been misdirected, and therefore squandered.

While saying this, Carmen intentionally puts a hard edge into her voice. Not all of the things she has said about Wellspring are true, but she wants to try to gauge what the old man thinks of Wellspring. She even has a suspicion that the old man actually is Wellspring.

Sense Motive to study his reaction, using 1 inspiration point for the Cunning Knowledge:
Sense Motive: [roll0]

[dresdor]

"Then my copy of his book may not be valuable after all. Things have changed much it seems. They keep to themselves, of course, but I have never before heard of a High Magus being ridiculed or held up as a bad example, unless of course they did something truly horrible. Being a poor theorist seems to be a far greater crime than I ever imagined." The man seems very weary, is if he's finally realized what the amount of time that has passed outside his home actually means.

Carmen

You strongly suspect that he is keeping something from you, but you cannot be sure that his secret is that he is Wellspring. It may be something completely different, trivial or it could be very important. Needless to say this old man is keeping something to himself, and he does seem to be disturbed by what you have said.

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh

"Who were you before coming to this place, grandfather? If you were placed here for some purpose, it might shine a light on ours."

[dresdor]

"Before I went blind I was an adviser and sage. A fairly learned man for my time. Kings consulted me, and followed my advice. Even great wizards thought I had some insight, though that was many years ago, and things have changed. I fear I have no use now, just an aged man whom death refuses to come for."

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

My apologies if the question seems rude but do you want to die? Fash looks at the old man, some pity in his eyes as the man talks.

And guys I think we are here for a purpose. We need to learn why. Would you mind if we would search in your house if we can find why we are here and where we are? Fash says while looking around.

[dresdor]

"I do not wish for death, but I have little to live for. You may search whereever you wish.".

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Thank you kind sir. And my apologies again if my question was too rude. I never meant it that way. I would like to see if there are hints for our coming here. Shall we go and search everyone. Fash moves towards the beds. Looking in each of the footlockers.


Searchcheck: [roll0]



After that he moves towards the storage area and starts searching there for something that could give them the meaning of being where they are. He seeks in the complete room, putting everything back where he found it if it has no use to him.


Searchcheck: [roll1]

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen replies, "If you'll excuse me, I'll join him. You are a most gracious host, we will be careful not to be disruptive in our search."

Carmen takes her time and makes sure she's doing a good, but not completely exhaustive search. Taking 10 gives her a 15 for her search check.

EDIT: she is going to go back to the desk and focus her search there, only this time she is going to actually open the drawers, move things, &c. Like last time she's keeping her eyes open for anything that has names she recognizes, anything that has Wellspring's name and anything with the golden eye symbol. Also, she has sheathed her kama.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone joins the two in searching, relying on his keen senses to hopefully pick out something that will either explain their purpose or be of use in the future.

Search
[roll0]

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh, not wanting to leave the lonely old man, stays in the chamber and does the best he can to search more thoroughly.

search: [roll0]

[dresdor]

A thorough search of the area brings forth the following clues:

Many of the papers and books around the house are in draconic. Only a few are in common, and those seem to be simple notes on the books in draconic. The books seem to have a common theme: the coming of the end of the world, and a being called the Destroyer and the Annihilator. It is likely that the two names refer to the same being, though all knowledge of what exactly it is is lost to you.

The footlockers and bunkroom are empty. It seems like a resting area suited to a half dozen people comfortably. A closet along a wall is a larder packed full of all sorts of well preserved foods.

You notice for the first time that there is a crested shield above the mantelpiece with a golden eye like the one on the door. The image has the golden eye on a book of some sort.

The search is fairly fruitless, then Lugh clumsily trips over a floorboard, and it comes up revealing a small hiding area. Inside is a small wooden box about the size of a book. It is locked with a stout iron padlock that doesn't appear to have seen any age, nor has the wood of the box. The box is heavy and obvioulsy has something in it.

[Anti-Luis]

"Ooomph!" Lugh grunts as he falls to the ground. He turns around to see the culprit is a loose floorboard. Wrapping his fingers around the old wood, he tugs, revealing small hidden area. In which he finds a small wooden box.

"Friends!" he shouts. "I have found something!"

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Even though I am glad you call me friend. What is it you have found? Do you need help. And what does this sign of an eye mean. Its on multiple places in this house. Does anybody found something about it. I can't read this gibberish. Or whatever language it is. Fash says while walking towards the place Lugh is.

[IncarnumJunkie]

That gibberish that you speak of, mister Dergel, is Draconic, an ancient and powerful language. True, the icon of that golden eye that you spied on the coat-of-arms is persistent in this place. Now that you found that box, we can be sure that there is far more to this place than what our host is telling us. There cannot be any way that he is ignorant to what is inside here.

Cavalone inspects the coat-of arms hanging on the wall. Having seen many places in his travels as a Knight, he should be able to recall where he had seen such a crest, if he had seen it, or hopefully heard about it.

Knowledge (nobility and royalty)
[roll0]

[Yucca]

Carmen

Returning from her mostly fruitless search of the study, Carmen overhears Fash's question. "The eye is a symbol of rank amongst an order of magi. It represents a High Magus, an honor not generally being given in recent generations. I recognized the author of one of the books as a High Magus. He seems to have a hand in building this place. As he said, Carmen gestures towards Cavalone "the books you see are mostly in Draconic, the few I've flipped through are all end of the world prophesies."

Carmen moves over to where Luis is standing with the box.

[Anti-Luis]

"It is locked." Lugh says as he reaches down to lift the box out of it's secret place. "Grandfather, would you have the key to this box? If not, perhaps we could find another way to open it." He looks around at the others.

[dresdor]

Cavalone

You do not recognize the particular family of the coat of arms, but you know the eye is the symbol of a powerful wizard, and the book usually signifies a high adviser to a king. The combination of the two suggests a powerful wizard who was an adviser to a king or kings.

All

"I do have a key, though I've never known what it was for. I was told to keep it until it seemed necessary to use it. I guess it is necessary now." He produces a stout iron key that shows no age from a chain around his neck.

[Anti-Luis]

"Thank you," Lugh says as he accepts the key. Placing it into the padlock, he looks around to the others for reassurance. A deep breath and a turn of the wrist, Lugh prays that what they might find in this box helps them in some way Find the purpose of all this.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Be carefull Lugh. Whatever is in it is maybe old enough to fall apart if you touch it.

[dresdor]

The lock clacks open, and after opening the box very carefully you find a poorly bound sheaf of papers. There is no title on the cover, just the ever present golden eye. Opening to the first page there is a note written in a very neat, precise hand.

If you have found this, then the end-days have come.
The Destroyer flies and wreaks destruction to all nations.
The Eye of the Magi is ever watchful and vigilant.
It sees through the twists of fate and time.

The Age of Dragon will come and pass,
and men shall not perish from the world.
Though Dragons rule from perches high
They will be destroyed en masse.

Seek the hall from which the Age of Dragons came
Seek the answers from the red one.
Find the path towards the Annihilator,
and save your people from death.

The Golden Eye opposes the Destroyer,
It watches for the Annihilator.
It wards against the coming destruction
but its vigilance will fade.

Find Alexstraniza the Young,
teach her the meaning of the spear.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

What's on the paper? I mean you are reading it like it's important so tell up please. Fash asks Lugh while looking at the others and there expressions on their face.

OOC:
Come on guys post more so we can go on an epic adventure :)

[IncarnumJunkie]

It's a poetically-written prophecy of some sort. I may be a Knight of Arvindor, but my talents lie in the arts of war, not historics and ancient prophecies. Perhaps there is something in our host's collection of books and tomes that can reveal more? Maybe our generous host may be able to shed more light on this prophesy?

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh nods in agreement with the knight. "Yes, grandfather. Do you know Alexstraniza? She seems important. Perhap she help save us all." He says this as he hands the parchment to the others.

[dresdor]

"Alexstraniza the Young, I do not know of. Ages ago there was one by the name of just Alexstraniza. She was an adviser to King Gralamond of Tiril. Strange woman, always seemed to get exactly what she wanted. One day, though, the King was found dead, and half the treasury gone, as was Lady Alexstraniza. It is believed she was a shapechanged dragon, seeking after the gold of the kingdom. A few decades later some knights claimed they found her and finished her, but never reported what kind of dragon she was. Now if she were still alive today, and the centuries have passed as you say, she could hardly be called the Young. Dragonlings, however, take names of their ancestors, especially those slain. Perhaps there is a child of Alexstraniza that you must find?"

He sighs heavily. "The rest foretells the doom of man and the rise of the dragon. As in ages long forgotten, the cycle continues. Time ebbs and flows, but the past will return, though none shall remember it. The Age of Dragons has come again as it had come before, and after it will come again the Age of Man. The Annihilator who cannot be Annihilated, the Destroyer who cannot be Destroyed, is the only constant. He alone survives through all times, until his moment comes to break the cycle and stagnate the cosmos. It is a prophecy of doom. Perhaps it means you must face the unfaceable, and kill the unkillable, though I think it means you to start off with the least of dragons. One does not crumbled an a mountain by moving it all at once. One must crumble it stone by stone."

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Does any of you know a sleeping place off a young dragon? And maybe we need to speak with the dragon, warn it for the Destroyer and let it help us to destroy it. I mean why should we kill it. I am not the guy that enjoys killing things that do not provoke attack. Not even dragons.

[Anti-Luis]

"It seems we will have a hand in the cycle. Feels right that we should help." Lugh sets the box on the floor and stands up. "I only wish we had more stories... the world is big, how will we find this dragon-child of Alexstraniza?"

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

More information would be helpfull. But that's not the only thing that would be. Getting a dragon to become friendly instead of frenzied would also be helpfull. So shall we head out and try to find a dragon we can reason with. I know you all prefer to kill them. Well at least some of you do. But let's try to talk. If that does not work we will try to defeat it, tie it down and try to make it speak than. Since we need information we can off course try to barter with it. As far as we can trust them that is. Fash says reasoning about what to do.

[dresdor]

Carmen
You recall in looking through the books that one was a catalog of famous dragons.

[Yucca]

Carmen

On the shelf of books in the other room there is one that seemed to deal mostly with well known worms. If you'll excuse me, I'll go get it. Perhaps this Alexstraniza is listed in there.

Carmen disappears through the doorway. She returns, walking slowly and carefully paging through the book. She looks up and shares what information the book has for them.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Does the book also state the age of the wyrm and offcourse when it was written. Since we know what year it was when the last one of us entered we can try to calculate how old the wyrm would be. And off course we can try to get a younger wyrm if the information is not in it. I just hope it's no green wyrm for they seem to like Gnome meat after we defended our village and killed one. Since I am wearing this armor they know I was the one with a hand in it. Even though my teacher was the one who really slayed them. Fash says while tenderly petting the dragonhide armor (if you look good you see the scales are those of a green dragon).

[IncarnumJunkie]

I too hope that our dragon in question is not of the Blue species. There is one particular azulean that has wronged me greatly in the past, and I have hunted it relentlessly. Needless to say that if I find it I will kill it with no remorse.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Revenge does not solve anything. As the brother of the dragon that attacked my village could say to thee. It only gets you killed or if you do get it makes you feel empty. But I do understand that some dragons can't be talked with. I do hope it's a metallic dragon for I know they are known for the diplomacy with which they solve things. Even though they are still wyrms they seem to be the most friendly.

[dresdor]

Carmen
Carmen searches through the text and does find mention of the dragon. It does not mention her death, but it clearly mentions that she is thought to be a green dragon of at least a thousand years. Clearly not any dragon that could be called young, especially when this book was published about 2500 years ago.

[IncarnumJunkie]

If the book was written nearly three millennia ago, I honestly question whether the dragon mentioned within that book is the same mentioned within the prophesy. The name could have been used again by a green dragon of no familial relation. I have during my travels met no less than a dozen individuals named Jonas, none of them were related to the other.

[Anti-Luis]

"Still, it is all that we have." Lugh's eyes narrow as he thinks a moment, "Does the book tell us where to find this Dragon of ages past? We can start there."

[dresdor]

The name of the region that the dragon can be found (the Landarion Plains) in is not known to any of you. When asked, the old man says he can't recall any place named as such.

"If you seek direction, there was an Oracle in the High Spindles. It is said if you follow the road of fire, your questions will be quenched."

The High Spindles is a name you know, it is a mountain range about three days north of here. It is also the direction the dragons seemed to come from when they attacked.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Well it seems we have our path laid out for us. I would say pack andleave here so we will be no bother anymore to you sir. And maybe if all goes well we will see each other again.

[IncarnumJunkie]

I also agree that we should make our journey to the High Spindles. *However, with dragons and other such monstrosities about, wandering from place to place would only put us in great jeopardy. *I believe that there is prime reason that we have all come to this place here. *Not only is there accomodations for all of us as well as our host as well as a larder that never empties, but this place yet remains untouched when so much around us has been destroyed. *With the permission of our host, I suggest that we use this place as a base of operations, at least as long as our grand mission requires. As soon as our mission is complete, we can proceed to take our operations to another location.*

[Anti-Luis]

"My mind is the same. If no one needs rest, I say we go for the spires now." Lugh looks around to see that most of the others appear to be fine, though it is difficult to tell with the knight. "We come back here when done. Grandfather has been kind to us." he says with an appreciative nod towards the old man.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen moves into the next room and begins to pack supplies for a week's journey.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Well Tarzan it's out in the open with us again. The smells of the meadow, fresh with dewdrops, the sun shining bright. The forests where you swing from tree to tree. Our place. May our journey be quick and uneventfull. And off course that we may find what we are looking for. By the way Tarzan, you should stay behind me when I exit ok. You are too big a target and I do not want to lose you. We are not long enough with each other. Fash says while looking at the big ape. The Ape snorts and looks like he does not care what Fash says. Not that Fash could stop the ape with force looking at the difference between the small Gnome and the big burly muscled ape.

[dresdor]

You gather what supplies you can find (more than enough food to last you to the Oracle, the larder seems to refill itself every time you turn around). With a goodbye to the old man, the door is opened, and the ruined city lies before you. You cannot tell how much time has passed, but the fires that burned now are smoldering coals, only a few putting up any smoke.

It is dawn outside, the distant cries of dragons can be heard. Hopefully there aren't any close. The way to the mountains lies ahead of you. There are a few options to get there. There is a gate nearby that will lead you out of the city, and onto the open plains. The pace will be faster, but you will be in the open. You can also head through the ruined city to the main gate, which will be under the cover of broken buildings. You will be harder to see by air, but the going will be slower. There might be other options, but those are the two that appear to you first.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

He rises up and takes his place on the back of Tarzan. Now you see that what looked like a backpack for the ape is acutally a saddle. Fash looks at the others and smiles.

I would say we will stay in the city. Since I would be probably the biggest holdback Tarzan will caryy me as he has done almost always. It's by the way quite fun to see people react to a talking Ape, but those stories are better left untold for now. He can travel quickly over most terrains. The cover of the city will be slower but thanks to everything we will be safer. Especially because I have more time to scout and listen while Tarzan moves.

@ Dresdor:

I hope you do not mind making my saddle backpack like. I found it more appropriate since the Ape could climb easier now.

[Anti-Luis]

"I say we go through city also. No need to be easy dragon prey." Lugh says this as he begins to take a few steps in that direction, using his spear as a walking stick.

[Yucca]

Carmen

The city is exactly what I would have suggested, cover is more important than speed. Fewer quicker ways to die than walking in the open with dragons overhead. When you're worried about dragons, you walk in a loose scattered formation so that only the biggest worms can hit more than one of us with their fetid breath. No straight lines between us, no bunching up. But don't stray too far apart.

Carmen pulls out her bow and begins to walk with the party.

[IncarnumJunkie]

I concur. It will make us more difficult for dragons to detect us while moving through the debris of a once glorious city. True, there is less glory in it, but what good is glory when you are dead before you can react?

In the sunlight, it is easier to see the rest of Cavalone's garb and armor. Wrapped around his neck is a scarf of tyrian purple, and his coat-of-arms is clearly visible: A blue dragon skull and a pair of longswords, arranged ala skull-and-crossbones. The color of the coat-of-arms is also tyrian purple, like his scarf.

[Yucca]

Hearing Cavalone's comment makes Carmen shake her head slowly. "One can be a glory seeker or one can be a dragon hunter, never both. Not for long. True, I have killed dragons in single combat," she motions to the rings on her left hand, There are three rings, each set with a single scale, one blue scale, one white scale, one copper scale, "but I much prefer to slit their throats in their sleep, or better yet, to step on the eggs, and watch the yolk turn the dirt into mud on the cave floor."

I mean no offense Sir Cavalone, and I have respected the honor of the knights I have worked with before, but please do not enter into this seeking glory. Not even a glorious death. You will do us a disservice if you do.

[IncarnumJunkie]

My appologies, miss Carmen. I did not intend to appear to you as a glory hound. True, in my younger days I was one for fame and glory. The dragons took that all away, however. I no longer want fame or glory or other mortal temptations. True, it is dragons' blood that we all seek, but we must still kill them in whatever ways the situation demands it, and I doubt that with my armor we will be able to make much of a quiet entrance into a dragon's lair. I'll be honest, I'm far better in a straight up fight than sneaking up on anything quietly. When the situation demands it, we should utilize whatever strategies we can.

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh's face wrinkles with disgust at the thought of squashed dragon's eggs. "I do not care for dragon's blood, brother. Only balance. We do what needs to be done, no more than that." The priest ponders a moment before continuing as they walk. "Most dragons are not good right now, yes, but not always like this. We find center of imbalance and make right again. We will waste too much time stompin' eggs, friends."

Keeping the others within his line of sight, Lugh takes Carmen's cue and tries his best not to walk too close or in a straight line with the others. Making the best use of the cover provided.

[dresdor]

OOC: I need a marching order please.

IC: The relative silence of the broken city is broken by several voices arguing back and forth. They are speaking in draconic. Fash's eyes spot two dozen small figures digging through the rubble, though he can't make out what they are.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Fash whispers softly to the others:
A bit farther there are creatures digging I can't see what they are though they speak a language I can't speak or understand. It seems like gibberish to me. And about the killing of dragons like I said I prefer not to. Killing the good kind is out of the question and I will never work with the killing of an helpless good dragon. Nor will I squash the eggs off a dragon, I would prefer raising it as my child before that would happen. Balance on the other hand is another question, or defending myself. Those are things I will do. Fash ends the speech with a less than friendly look towards Carmen.

OOC: Fash goes first I think. Since that would give him a good scouting point.

[Anti-Luis]

At Fash's words Lugh crouches down bringing his spear down low to the ground. "We go around maybe? I find most do not want to be friends."

[dresdor]

You could probably go down a side street to avoid the figures, but there is no telling what else might be around.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Guys, we can try to go around them. I think it's better to stay hidden for a longer while. Maybe sneak a bit up to them and see what it really are and what they are doing. Who can do that the best? I am not the person for this task for they speak a language that sounds like gibberish to me.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Making the best use of the cover available to her, Carmen softly pads forward towards the voices. She has her bow out with an arrow nocked. She is ready to fire at the first hostile that seems to have noticed her.

Listen: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]
Hide: [roll2]
Move Silently: [roll3]

[dresdor]

You get close enough to be able to make out the figures. You are about 200ft away, and hiding in the cover of some rubble. They are making no efforts to be quiet, which helps you greatly.

They are a group of a dozen or so kobolds, one of whom stands in the middle doing none of the physical work. By his side is a pile of valuable objects, gold, jewelry, gems, and some mundane looking things. He bosses the other kobolds around as they search.

"There is something underneath that pile" he says, pointing to a wrecked building. "Dig it out, it is an iron cup." He is speaking draconic. It is clear that the kobolds are looting the place.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Returning to the party Carmen relates what she has observed.

"We would be able to avoid them without difficulty. I didn't notice any that were obviously acting as guards or lookouts. But on that same note, it shouldn't be too difficult to ambush them. The one in charge did seem to have some magical way of detecting treasure, and if we're looking for a dragon, that would be useful to us.

Thoughts?"

[IncarnumJunkie]

Any assets that we can acquire would be useful for our cause. If it can find treasure, then it can certainly find a dragon's hoard, and where there is a dragon's hoard there be a dragon.

I vote for the forcible option.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Agreeing with Cavalone's assessment, and not hearing any objections from the rest, Carmen readies her bow. She quietly stalks back towards the kobolds. She's going to try to get about 100 ft away before firing, and she'd like to have cover to fire from.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone draws his longsword from the sheath hanging from his belt. He unslings his shield from his back, and twirls his longsword in his hand once, readying himself for battle. As soon as Carmen attacks, Cavalone will charge into battle and close in.

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

Do not expect help from me for this deed. For I am against killing them. Good luck if you are really bloodthirsty, but I hope they flee before you Fash says while Tarzan sits down and he looks disapproving at the other two.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen speaks to herself but loud enough for the others to hear. "A druid who is unwilling to fight off grave-robbing scavengers? This is a first for me. I was briefly worried about the knight being too principled, but it seems I should truly be worried about the rest of them who hold nothing sacred."

[Duskranger]

Fash Dergel

It is the nature of some to do stuff like that. As one of the natures arts I old those rules sacred. Do not attack unless attacked, do not try to fight nature, only those unnatural abominations that should not exist. Like I said before I will not fight those that do not harm me nor natures equilibrium. They who are doing that seem to be comletely natural, and that does not to me at least seem like a grave. I admit I do not like what I see, but attacking or killing them for that would make me as evil as those that try to oppress others into thinking how they want them to think. I leave you free to do what you want, but in the case of attacking do not expect a warrior of nature to help you. Nor will Tarzan help you, because if he would have the intention to do that or would have seen that they were not living, but the walking dead he would have charged them and there would've been no way for me to stop him. Dragons he will not charge blindly, the unliving will he try to smash before they even see him.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen stops short when she hears Fash's words. "I've met tribes of kobolds. As you would put it, 'naturally' they're miners and they shun the cities of men. Yet here they are, digging through this tomb of a city, amassing a hoard of gems ripped from the bodies buried in the rubble."

Carmen turns to Lugh and Avery. "Sir Cavalone and I are going to find some small amount of retribution for the people buried in the rubble."

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh shakes his head, "I do not like it, but will not let my friends come to harm. I shall follow." The young priest takes a deep breath and steps forward, raising his shield and spear up in a defensive posture.

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone nods approvingly.

Do not think that I am hindering myself just because I am principled. I would prefer to fight someone up front, face-to-face, not cowardly stab them in the back. How do you know that you are a man worthy of honor if you cannot fight your foe as equals? That is my philosophy. As for you two, I well understand that your fighting capacity may not be as great as mine and Carmen's, and I understand your intentions, but do not expect the same humanity from these Kobolds, expecially you, fash. I'm sure that they won't hesitate to put your head on a spear.

He moves with Carmen, keeping some distance to not give away her position.

I don't think I've ever heard of a Gnome who didn't want to hurt a Kobold. Yet here we are.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Carmen smiles, almost conspiratorially, at Cavalone. "Having principles will save your life, being a slave to them will end it. Your philosophy has value, I do not think you let it hinder you from doing the job that needs done."

[IncarnumJunkie]

I fight with principle because I am a Knight of Arvindor, and as a Knight I fight with principle to prove the capacity of my prowess not only to others around me but myself. It is a principle of perfection of one's martial prowess and battlefield honor, not the stagnation of fighting ability. I am not merely a brute with armor and sword, but sometimes a soldier and sometimes a guardian. Should I be met with a face-to-face challenge, then I will not hesitate to meet that challenge. I think that my philosophies are better discusses at another time, we have work to do. Carmen, I suggest that you provide us with ranged support, and I also suggest you take the opening shot. Lugh, do what you can to support us, and you can call on my aid should you find yourself attacked directly. Fash, if today your feelings on nature and equilibrium are proven wrong, then please do provide some support for us and if they do attack you then please do chalk it up to them being Kobolds. I do agree with you on something; I myself would be hesitant to attack an unarmed, helpless entity, even a Kobold, but I'm not going to give someone the time to put a bolt through my helmet if they are still a threat.

[Duskranger]

Fash

Like I said I will wish you luck. But I do not fight them nor hinder you in fighting them. My master was very strict to never attack unless attacked. That was how he lived and how I will live. Attacking means give in to anger and hate and that's something that would make me unableto be who I am now. Fash says while nodding towards the others.

[Yucca]

Carmen

Setting aside the philosophy, Carmen returns to her original plan: to close to whithin 100 feet then attack. If she closes unnoticed, she will fire on the leader, if she is spotted she will fire on the closest kobold.

OOC: Do I need to roll new Hide and MS checks or will we just keep using my old ones?

[dresdor]

Sneaking ahead, you get a clear view of the kobolds. They are definately looting, digging through the ruined buildings near the end of the street. You do not think they have spotted you yet.

Locations:
Lugh (R11)
Avery (R 9)
Fash (O7) [If you are mounted at this time, let me know and I will update)
Tarzan (P8)
Cavalone (O 10)
Carmen (L 12)
Kobolds (-F 6, 9, 15; -E 5, 14; -D 5 15; -B 6; -A 5, 16, 18)
Kobold Leader: (-D 10)



Map (will get better when distance is closed a little):

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/tigerus2004/Dragonmap1.png

[Yucca]

Carmen

Standing straight and pressing herself against the corner of the building to steady her frame, Carmen fires an arrow at the apparent leader of the kobolds. She crouches again. She makes no battlecry.

Initiative: [roll0]

Attack vs Flatfooted ac: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
Confirm a critical (26):
Confirm: [roll3]
Critical damage: [roll4]

Attack of Opportunity (if I get one):
To hit (unarmed strike): [roll5]
Damage: [roll6]
Confirm a critical (25): [roll7]
Critical damage: [roll8]

[dresdor]

Carmen fires her bolt, and it flies true, striking the kobold leader's back, pinning his cloak to him. The shot doesn't bring the monster down, and its hard to tell at this distance how hurt he is.

Combat Order:
Carmen: hp: 42/42
*we are here*
Avery: hp:29/29
Kobold Leader: *flat footed* [wounded?]
Tarzan: hp:52/52
Cavalone: hp: 86/86
Fash: hp: 43/43
Kobolds: *flat Footed*
Lugh: hp: 42/42

Note: We are still in the surprise round; so the kobolds will not act, but the party can.

NOTE: Fash, if you want tarzan to act on your turn, he can delay til then.

map (hasn't changed):

http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/tigerus2004/Dragonmap1.png

[IncarnumJunkie]

Cavalone spurs his mount to action with a shout. The rhythmic motion of his heavy warhorse causes his armor to clank and crash, a sound that harmonized with the beating of the hooves of a horse bred for war.
His shield was raised and his sword held high, a posture of a warrior bred for warfare as heavily as his horse. His scarf whipped about behind him, a streak of Tyrian Purple trailing behind him.
His charge penetrated the surprised group of kobolds. His target was their leader, still reeling from Carmen's accurate arrow. In a disciplined maneuver that he had executed many times in his life, he leaned slightly to the side as he readied for the strike he was aiming at the kobold leader. He took the swing, trusting his abilities and his determination.

Charge from O10/P10 to -E11/-D11

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Critical Confirm (33 or 34)

Confirm: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Duskranger]

Fash

Fash shakes his head, the world always goes back to violence as if that is the only way, they could've evaded the creatures. Why attack when not attacked.

Slowly he stands up and looks at Tarzan which is also standing alert against any thread there could possibly be.

Fash's Turn:

Standing up and look at his partymembers.


Tarzans Turn:

Staying close to Fash (more like towering above him)

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh holds his spear towards the sky as he calls out, "Obad-Hai, great green one, protect this one." The sound of distant winds and sea birds fills the air around him as a magical energy, like waves, crashes over him. Assured that his prayer was heard, he moves to the corner of a nearby building.

Cast Sanctuary on self.
Move to M6 or N6 if that isn't possible.

[dresdor]

Avery
Avery runs behind one of the buildings. Whether he is hiding from the battle or flanking the enemy is anyone's guess.

Cavalone
Cavalone surges forward, striking and driving his sword down into the kobold leader. There is no doubt about this blow, black blood sizzles on Cavalone's sword. Strangely, the sword seems to glow slightly red in the spots where the blood hits.

Fash
Fash waits, wondering what diplomacy could have done. Its clear now by his companion's actions that there would be no diplomacy today.

Lugh
Lugh feels the protection of Obad Hai


Combat Order:
*we are here*
Carmen: (L12) hp: 42/42
Avery: (Q16) hp:29/29
Kobold Leader: (-F 11) *flat footed* [wounded]
Tarzan: (N8) hp:52/52
Cavalone: (-D 11) *charged -2AC* hp: 86/86 (mount: unwounded)
Fash: (N7) hp: 43/43
Kobolds: *flat Footed*
Lugh: (M6) hp: 42/42 *Sanctuary 6 Rounds*

Map
http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/tigerus2004/Dragonmap2.png

[Yucca]

Trying to keep any more kobolds off of Cavalone's back, Carmen tries to thin out the rest of the group while Cavalone finishes off the leader.

Carmen moves to G10 and fires her bow at the kobold at -D9.

Attack vs Flatfooted ac: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Confirm a critical (26):
Confirm: [roll2]
Critical damage: [roll3]

Attack of Opportunity (if I get one):
To hit (unarmed strike): [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
Confirm a critical (25): [roll6]
Critical damage: [roll7]

[dresdor]

Carmen
Carmen moves forward and fires again. The arrow buries itself in the kobold's thigh. It grunts, obviously injured, but stays up. These are clearly not normal kobolds.

Avery
Avery is out of sight from everyone. No clue where he is going.

Kobold Leader
The Kobold leader steps out of Cavalone's sword range, and hisses. He chants in draconic, though what he says makes little sense. Cavalone feels something fuzzy slip into his mind, but manages to shake off the effect. Whatever the kobold has done, it doesn't seem to effect the Knight.

Combat Order:
Carmen: (L12) hp: 42/42
Avery: (Q16) hp:29/29
Kobold Leader: (-E 10) [wounded]
*we are here*
Cavalone: (-D 11) hp: 86/86 (mount: unwounded)
Tarzan: (N8) hp:52/52
Fash: (N7) hp: 43/43
Kobolds: *flat Footed* *One on -D 9 wounded*
Lugh: (M6) hp: 42/42 *Sanctuary 6 Rounds*

Map:
http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/tigerus2004/Dragonmap3.png

[IncarnumJunkie]

Whatever the Kobold leader attempted to do to Cavalone, it only made an angry Knight even angrier. Cavalone yells at the kobold in Draconic, his words and actions not needing a language.

[COLOR="Red"]You dare underestimate a Knight of Arvindor with your cheap spells? I shall teach you the error of your ways, kobold![COLOR]

Cavalone swings at the kobold leader again and again, filled with a new fire, a new determination to defeat the spellcaster and his ilk.

5ft step to Kobold Leader
(map and written description do not match)

++Performing Knight's Challenge -- Fighting Challenge++
Target: Kobold Leader
Condition: Kobold Leader's CR must be at least 2 below Cavalone's CL.
+1 morale bonus to Will, attack and damage against Kobold Leader
7 Rounds remaining
++

Attacks:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Damage (respectively):
[roll2]
[roll3]

==
((OOC Here: Should the Kobold Leader's CR be lower than 4, then assume that the Knight's Challenge is wasted (Will, attack and damage unaffected).))

[Duskranger]

Tarzan and Fash look at their allies. Fash with sadness in his eyes, for he knows that diplomacy would have been better.

We will move closer but try to stay out of combat. If our new allies are in grave danger we will attack, for letting them die is worse than not fighting, it would make us cowards. But do not attack unless provoked, or I give the command.

Tarzan has delayed his turn to Fash's and he moves behind Fash untill he is about 5' in front of him. Fash uses a double move action.

[Anti-Luis]

Lugh stalks forward, his spear leading the way. He surveys the battle, ready to act if his allies are in need.

Moving up the road, about G7 I believe

[dresdor]

Cavalone
Cavalone spurs his mount forward and slices down at the kobold leader. The blade's first blow is a cut accross the creature's ribs. Drops of blood scatter onto the cobblestones below, and sizzle. The Knight's second blow slices off the sleeve of the kobold's cloak, and hits something solid. As the sleeve falls away, Cavalone sees that the kobold's hide is exceptionally thick, which explains why Carmen's bolt didn't phase the creature. The creature's toughness firms Cavalone's belief that he alone can defeat this monster.

Fash and Tarzan
Fash and Tarzan move up towards the fray (not sure what position you want to be in, so I guessed. Also couldn't tell if you wanted tarzan in front of or behind you.)

Kobolds
The kobolds swarm forward, many trying to save their leader from Cavalone. Only one gets through the Knight's tough armor, nicking his arm (7 damage). Three attack Tarzan, seeing him as a major threat, but no spears come close to piercing his thick hide. One reaches Carmen, but is also unsuccessful in his spear thrust.

Lugh
Lugh moves forward, and it is clear that Cavalone will need his healing should the Knight survive the swarm of kobolds.

Combat Order:
*we are here*
Carmen: (L12) hp: 42/42
Avery: (Q16) hp:29/29
Kobold Leader: (-F 11) [wounded]
Cavalone: (-E 11) hp: 79/86 *Knights Challenge 7 Rounds* (mount: unwounded)
Tarzan: (B8) hp:52/52
Fash: (C7) hp: 43/43
Kobolds:*One on -D 10 wounded*
Lugh: (G7) hp: 42/42 *Sanctuary 5 Rounds*

Map:
http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/tigerus2004/Dragonmap4.png

[Yucca]

Carmen

Seeing the kobolds closing in on her, Carmen steps back, sets her bow down, and draws her longspear. She thrusts it forward at the only kobold currently in range.

5' step to H10. Drop bow. Draw spear. Attack kobold at F10.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Confirm a critical (26):
Confirm: [roll2]
Critical damage: [roll3]

Attack of Opportunity (if I get one):
To hit (Longspear): [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]
Confirm a critical (26): [roll6]
Critical damage: [roll7]

[Duskranger]

OOC:

Tarzan is large which makes him take a 10'x10'space and aff course 10' reach, this would mean since they are close to him that one of them has gotten an AoO over him.

And furthermore, Tarzan is in front indeed, he has more movement than Fash.


Fash Looks around and smiles.

He says one thing and waits until Tarzan has attacked and moves from where he is to somewhere else (5'-step back).

Tarzans attack:

His AoO from last turn:
[roll0] for [roll1] (only if ruled he will get it).

His own turn (full attack on one kobold preferably the one that he gets the AoO on):
[roll2] for [roll3]
[roll4] for [roll5]
[roll6] for [roll7]


Fash after delaying his turn untill after the attack of Tarzan also does a 5'step and starts casting a spell, after that he shouts to all:
The force of nature will bind you and will show you that it does not enjoy fighting. Seize this attacking before one will be hurt.

Around the kobolds that did attack Fash the plants are growing and are starting to entangle the creatures in a 40' radius where Fash and Tarzan are at the border of the circle, the kobolds attacking Tarzan are in the border (and being entangled) and the rest is around 40' spread so difficult to calculate for me.

[IncarnumJunkie]

The spear that made it through Cavalone's armor wounded him palpably, but it was nothing that would keep him out of battle. He realized that his tactic may not have been as effective as it would seem--the Kobold leader had survived his initial assault, a surprising feat for a kobold. The kobold's resilience had given its comrades time to surround him, resulting in a spear through his armor. Although he was surrounded by spear-wielding enemies, a dangerous prospect in any circumstance, his imperative objective was the kobold leader--a spellcaster on the battlefield was far more dangerous than a mob of spear-wielding dragonspawn.
He prompted his own mount to action with a tap of his heels against the horse's flanks. In a disciplined maneuver, learned by the horse in its training, the heavy warhorse kicked at the kobold in front of him, even attempting to take a bite out of it. Cavalone readied himself for the horse's motions, trying to hold tight as the horse kicks and bucks.

+++
Knight's Challenge: 6 rounds remaining
Target: Kobold Leader
+++

Heavy Warhorse Attack
Hoof
[roll0]
[roll1]

Bite
[roll2]

Damage
Hoof
[roll3]
[roll4]

Bite
[roll5]

Cavalone's Ride Check
Attacking with Mount (DC=10)
[roll6]

[Anti-Luis]

Seeing the knight becoming overrun with kobolds, Lugh stretches out his hand towards his comrade and begins a desperate prayer. "Obad-Hai, I beg you, give us aid!"

Casting Summon Monster III for [roll0] Celestial Giant Fire Beetles. If I can choose their facing, I'd like them to be looking at the kobolds attacking Cavalone and attack those. I don't believe I'll be able to command them more precisely than that, right?