Minions of Power

[BlueWizard]

The lands of Diamondell were recently founded in the faraway Northern Kingdom. A far-off land, overseas, ruled by a good human Queen, outside of the influence of the mighty Ancient Empire. Diamondell is an independent city-state within the Northern Kingdom. A wealth of opportunities attracted folk from across the multiverse.

Those in the 'know' are informed of the true depth of what is happening here in Diamondell. The Temple of Power's guise of the Church of 9 Hells, has set-up shop here, and are poised to make itself into a legitimate power in the world, even in this good-aligned North.

What occurred in the North? Well, ruins were discovered, a diamond mine, and countless horrors and aberrations. A call was put out for adventurers to come, and come they did; after the illithid community was destroyed....

Most of the treasure-seekers died seeking the lost wealth of the ancients promised by advertisers in leaflets throughout the Ancient Empire so far away... Eventually more organized party members were formed as missions into the woods and ruined lands cost more and more lives in the two years that passed since its founding.

One thing has been known, if you can recover a bit of the wealth hidden below the overgrown ruins, you can be rich beyond your wildest dreams. At least that is what the old priest said when he who spoke to his three prized 'mercenaries'.

Thaliana was a promising recruit, and with the 'LADY' of Diamondell promising riches to outsiders, the Church of Nine Hells felt it was nigh time to send its own expeditionary force to search these long lost ruins. So, interested was the Church, that even noble-outsiders had come to seek their own domains and allies. One such noble, was a young (by their standards) tiefling, named: Ker'iki'skara. The church knew that such explorations were costly, so 'important' members of the church were not allowed for fear of gith-assassination attempts. This gave Thaliana a chance to really prove herself to the church along with this noble tiefling from Hell.

The Guild was a valuable business partner, and 3 'rejects' from the human law were quite up-and-coming specialists for the Guild's "great operation".

Ptik'drit the Thri-kreen, Milo the hobbit, and Blackbriar the cat-folk never fit into human society. Not in the empire. This is one reason the Guild wanted to send its new stars here, so they can really develop as a team in a real growing part of the business world. Diamondell was becoming one of the most diverse places on the planet, with creatures from all over the multiverse passing through or living here. The three non-humans will be quite impressed with the openness of everything here. Even in religion. Power is dominant, but other shrines are allowed to exist here, as is the Northern Kingdom's law of freedom of religion. {They just police certain actions involved in many of the ceremonies.}

At the moment it is late morning, you all met at an old man's cottage. This old man is Asian, and a high priest of Asmodeus, but not THE high priest. This one's voice will be very familiar to Thaliana, but he often wore a mask in the ceremonies. This old fellow is the priest that arrived with Milo, Ptik, and Blackbriar at the port, then hiked into the boonies of these faraway woodland hills.

He gave you a map, and directed you to the location of the lost city.
"Treasure in abundance await below. Please, take note of any discoveries as well. There may be artifacts of interest to the Church."

After your couple hour hike into the woods, you come upon the woodland valley directed by the map. The only thing... When you reach it, you find scores of hobgoblins encamped there, the sight of their fire is noticed, and you will be able to see the many goblinoids literally moving in. Large lizard mounts and pack animals arrive with more hobgoblins, and families. This includes their slave goblins, and guardian bugbears.

You will need to keep your distance from the valley or sneak in, otherwise you will risk drawing the attention of the hobgoblins.

To top this all off it is muddy, drizzly, and looks to rain heavy this coming night.

{OOC- Welcome all! Please post a description of your PC, and feel free to quietly discuss things here with your new companions. You are looking into the woodland valley indicated on the old foreign priest's map not far outside the in-progress town of Diamondell.}



The Minions:
Thaliana- Priestess of Asmodeus
Ker'iki'skar- Tiefling Diabolist
Milo Tosscobble- Halfling Assassin-in-training
Ptik'drit- Thri-kreen from the Kandorian Desert
Garreth Blackbriar- Cat-folk Swordsage

[Torgarn]

A eerily beautiful man in red robes kneels in the mud. Brands and tatoos declaring his allegiance to Asmodeus run down his face. He runs his hands through his silky white hair. Vrashan Ker'iki'skara swears in Infernal. They got here first. I suppose diplomacy is an option with them, but I personally don't like the thought of sharing the wealth. What do you think Thaliana he asks turning to his companion.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit stands a short distance behind the Tiefling. He is an odd sight, even ignoring the curiosity that is a Thri-kreen in a largely humanoid civilization. Unaccustomed to the cold, he wears a thick turtle-neck sweater of darkest crimson – an object clearly not designed for such a creature, as evidenced by the two jagged holes through which he has forced his second pair of clawed arms.

Unaccustomed to the feel of wool, Ptik'drit is absently scratching himself under the sweater as he laughs softly to himself – an eerie, gutteral clicking sound. 'Diplomacy' was a word he had learned recently. It was a concept he'd yet to put into practice.

He tests the word. "Dict-plomat'see". The word comes hissing and clicking out of him, and he chuckles again – a bit louder this time. It felt even more foreign on his tongue than most of the other strange, soft words of the "common" language.

Done scratching, he crouches and slinks perhaps ten feet to the right of his companions, attempting to gain a better tactical view of the field before him. Trees that could be bound from, ledges on which to climb... he assesses the height of the strange soft things in the valley.

Perhaps soon it would be time to leap.

[Airanath]

Thaliana stands right by Ker'ik'skara. A thin framed, beutiful and charming woman, with a red of a light brown color, long and well kept. She wears thin clergy robes above her armor, which help to shape her already eye catching form even more.
After hearing the words coming from Ker'ik, her beutigul eyes flash eerily for a second, leading one to wonder what kind of sinister toughs might be passing trough her mind at this moment.
"As do I Ker, as do I" she says softly "But depending on how many we face, it could be a better choice, or, at least, a way to get closer so we can delay them. You know, if some key people fall sick, they might have to wait a few days before moving." She chuckles lightly at the idea. !Hopefully, negotiations will be peaceful, and they will invite us for dinner, then we can add some seasoning."

She turns to the mercenaries, and speaks with a soft, but autoritary tone. "I like blood as much as the next person, but we avoid fighting unless necessary, if we have to fight tought, I expect you guys to maim first, no one escapes if a fight breaks. We can have fun killing them after, and disposing of the bodies."

Did I mention she is kinda sadist? =X

[Gice]

"Hmm, hobgoblins, probably out to steal our treasure" Milo says. A hobbit dressed in all black clothes stands next to Ptik'drit. At the sight of the encampment, he took his arrow out of his quiver and checks to see if it's sharp. "I remember some goblin from some books I stole back in the city, but don't expect me to go play mister nice guy on these guys.", he says as his brown eyes peak towards the encampment to count the number of goblinoids in the encampment from his current position.

Spot: [roll0]
If we're close enough that we can hear them or they could hear us:
Move Silently: [roll1]
Hide: [roll2]
Listen: [roll3]

[Neftren]

A short, catfolk dressed in an olive green tunic scrabbles across the roots and brambles of the forest floor. "Scraaagh! Garreth be unaccustomed to trees and bushes! I miss the great plains already! He sees the goblins and pauses. "Diplomacy. Pfft. They're goblins you infernal spawn! They don't negotiate. They're a rowdy lot; all of them. If you want to talk, be my guest. I won't be the one scraping your charred remains off the skewer when they finish with you though." He crosses his arms and takes a seat, and begins to medidate, mentally rehearsing each carefully choreographed maneuver in his mind. He was ready for this. Sensei had prepared him well...

[Gice]

'Maybe we could "invite" one of them over and "convince" him or her into telling us what they're up to?', Milo proposes.

[Airanath]

"Now that is a plan I like Milo, Thaliana says pleasntly, think you can do it? While you are at it, maybe you can figure who their leader and scout are, and slip this into their food."
She produces two vials with a moss-green liquid, offering them to the Hobbit.
"If they are down, it ought to buy us some time before they advance" she chuckles.

[Torgarn]

We should simply kill them all, making an offering of them to my father, Ker'ik'skara sneers.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik, moving back towards the group, nods at the suggestions he hears. "These ones are strong, but those ones are many. And that is their home. Not a good place to fight."

He begins bobbing up and down, squatting and stretching as if in preparation for an imminent exercise.

"If these ones fight, much better out here than in there..."

[Airanath]

"Exactly Ptik, which is why I think we should disable and ignore then, or strike a deal for peace, that they may not really honor, since they have the strenght to back themselves up..."

[tuesdayscoming]

"Talk is fine," he clicks in reply. "But what when they decide they don't like what these ones say?"

He turns towards Milo and contorts his face into something almost resembling a smile. "Perhaps dress up the short one? Same height as the squishies, maybe those ones will not notice?" He laughs happily, mid-stretch, amused by his own joke and by the similarity he observed between the goblins and his old companion.

[Torgarn]

If you more.... earthy types could scout them out and discover their exact numbers, I believe we could form a more complete plan.

[Neftren]

"Kyaaah! Killing them in cold blood gets us nowhere! We were brought here for a job. Mass murder wasn't part of it!" Garreth bares his fangs in protest. "I think it best if we find out more about them before deciding what to do. We could maybe even use them to our advantage; point them in the wrong direction even. I can try to scout them out, maybe see something that we may have missed before..." Garreth prepares to move out and get a better look at the opposing forces.


[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

[BlueWizard]

Looking down into this woodland valley, Thaliana will believe she is seeing something quite bold from the goblinoids. It appeared that they were setting up a village, right before your eyes. The dragon worshiping Northern nobles killed the goblinoids on the surface in the past, and kept them confined to underground caves at best! Otherwise it was wholesale slaughter.

This open encampment looked like no raiding party that Milo had heard of for their were females and young goblinoids here too. Tent homes were made, and as you watched you will see the dirty Nudist Druids aiding the goblins in the set-up. Old man Van, the high priest who gathered you all, complained and warned that a few humans might be out in these parts. "Hippies. Gol-darn Hippies!!" There are a few of these humans directing important looking hobgoblins into which trees to cut down or trimmed or not.

These 'hippy' discussions with the hobgoblins seem to be heated on both sides, and the hippies don't seem to want to cut any down. There are only a few nudist druids, so they are way out-numbered.

As Milo is leaning in closer to the valley woodlands, and Blackbriar is considering stalking off into the woods, these two keen eared fellows will hear the sounds of children laughing. It will take a moment for them to realize it is goblin children. It appears to be 3 buff hobgoblin youths and about 8 tiny little goblin kid assistants. One of the goblin kiddos is no more than a foot and a half tall, he dodders after the older boys. They are eagerly following a stream up to its source. They will not see you as they pass on their way up.

Most of the goblins are some distance away, and it is hard to hear anything, especially without exposing yourself completely on the hillside. Milo and Blackbriar can sneak past the kids and into the woodlands with ease.

There are a few family goblin encampments that are starting to pop-up all over, as hobgoblins continue to slowly stream into this region.

Ptik'drit can spot many places from which to leap about and battle atop the trees.

[Airanath]

"Perfect... they are making a goddamn village here of all things" Thaliana curses in the infernal tongue.

[BlueWizard]

Milo and Garreth will hear drums, as if there is a preparation for some ceremony. Or maybe it is the dinner 'bell', either way it sounds cool in its bass-rhythm. There are likely quite a few drums.

These hobgoblins are spread out, and it is conceivable that they can be taken out one at a time.

The hippy-goblin parties is a larger important looking group, and appear to be the nobles surveying the land for best suiting their needs. The hippies don't seem to be wanting to do this and are scowling. Right now the forest has not alerted them to your presence.

[tuesdayscoming]

OOC: Thoughts spoilered below /OOC

"Village?" Ptik'drit stops abruptly, caught crouching midstretch, his weight thrown impossibly to one side. He loses his balance for a moment, teetering to the right, but catches himself and stands quickly, moving closer to Thaliana in an attempt to share her viewpoint.

His head pivots slightly to the side and he is silent for a few seconds. His right antenna twitches a few times, forward and back.

"Those ones," he clicks under his breath, just barely audible to the others, "make village here?"

His antenna twitches again.

'Diplomacy.' He turns the word over in his mind, trying to find the closest approximation in his own native tongue. He is silent a few moments more before deciding. It isn't a perfect parallel. Literally, he supposes, it would mean "to assail."

A word in his native tongue comes hissing out of his mouth."Keh'krakt." It's speaking is harsh, sounding almost violent against the quiet 'common' mutterings of his companions.

The word didn't sound right here. And it wasn't... it wasn't the right word at all... this was not the place for such a word as his.

He stands and, still staring straight down at the village, speaks. "Dict-plohmassy." It sounded a bit more natural this time, he thinks.

He turns his head to the left, towards Thaliana, and nods. "This one does it your way today, Lady."

He looks back ahead, his top arms crossed on his chest, his bottom arms once again absently scratching at the red sweater he wears.

[Torgarn]

If they are just building we don't even need to really worry about them. They likely aren't even aware of the ruins, we can simply bypass them.

[Gice]

"I have no interest in these goblins, so why bother talking to them?
Besides, does anyone else know goblin? I'm not going to play the diplomat but I will translate if neccesary. " Milo says as he returns to the group.

"And drop the idea of dressing me up, that's not gonna happen" he says to Ptik.

[Airanath]

"As a matter of fact, I was studying their language for the last few years. I don't mind talking to them, if we must, but yes, new servants for the Lord of the Nine are always a boon. I can assure you Milo, you'll want to be on his high favors." Thaliana says, looking at the Hobbit, and studying him for the first time.
"But I'll agree with may have other priorities right now, since they are busy, we could find the ruins and strip them of what would serve us well. And offer some of what wouldn't to them." She stops, comtemplating some toughts for a moment.
"Ker... Did you bring any sacks? Or ropes?"
Ouch, just noticed I forgot to grab the basics of adventuring =X, except for torch, I don't need those >=D

[Torgarn]

I have a 50 foot loop of silk rope Ker'ik'skara replies. I have a satchel, but it contains my spellbooks and rope.

[Gice]

"I have brought a sack and a rope", Milo says as he opens his ordinary looking backpack and takes the top two items, a silk rope and a sack, out of it. "What are you planning to do with it?" he asks.

[Airanath]

"Right now nothing, but it seems I misplaced mine, and we are bound to the ruins. How do we plan to haul back our spoils without? As for rope, we might need some to bind the humans, once we convince the goblinoids that our way is better." Thaliana gives an eerie smile.
"Let's head for the camp, let's teach them that they don't need to listen to Tree Lovers, and that they need to fear not the Good Dragons. For with the nine lies Tiamat, and she will eat those dragons in revenge someday."
"Anyone against this plan?"

[Torgarn]

Your desire to manipulate them is sublime Thaliana. Ker'ik'skara smiles coyly at her, I find that very attractive in a woman.

[Airanath]

"You and that devilish silver tongue of yours" she smiles back in a provocative way, "I find that dangerous but atractive in a man."

[BlueWizard]

Ptik'drit will notice a strange patch of trees, they are ancient oaks, and in a circular pattern some ways into the woodlands below you all. This is not a natural circle of trees, and it appears that some small structure may be overgrown.

You might be able to sneak along the woods without goblins noticing. Milo and Garreth would have no trouble at all.

[Neftren]

"Village... children... no, it doesn't make sense. If we do have to fight though, perhaps we shouldn't reveal all our cards at once? It may make sense for us to send out one or two representatives. The rest of us can prepare for the worst... Better safe than sorry! Ehehehe... well, of course, whoever goes out there will be somewhat exposed."

Garreth hops back and forth on his feet. His fingers play idly with the braid in his hair.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit listens absently to the romantic banter between his two new companions.

They were strange ones, he thinks to himself. Not like most humans he had met so far. Just as squishy, but somehow less... soft. He cannot help but note that the female would make a good brood-mother for her people. Decisive. Strong.

He nods slightly at Garreth's suggestion before releasing three audible clicks, rapid-fire – a sound that Milo and Garreth would have come to recognize as a call to attention. He points his upper left hand towards the circle of trees he noticed.

"Something is strange with the trees there... or do they all grow that way? This one has not seen many before." He turns to look at Milo. "Maybe you or Catman go and see? This one will stay here with the tall ones. Perhaps there will be need for leaping, and this one fears their legs are short." He pivots his head to the side, looking inquisitively towards Thaliana, almost as if asking permission to stay.

[Airanath]

Thaliana looks at the trees inquisitively, she tries to recall if she ever heard of anything like that in the temple.
Knowledge(Religion)[roll0]
"Yes, it might prove useful to have more information on that...", she says still staring at the circle, "We shall await for your report here, and prepare a camp for the night, I'll go to town with someone once you are back with the report, to see what we can start over there."

[Torgarn]

Someone brought a tent right? If not I have a nice extradimensional space we can rest in.

[BlueWizard]

Hillside Looking Down:
Thaliana seems to recall reading that the North once was ruled by demon worshipers, specifically the demonic aspect of Lust. Which was often marked with feminine symbols, though attractive men were also very important. According to legend this place may have been run for a brief period by incubi and succubi.
These priests who ruled then were obsessed with beauty, if they were like any of the modern priests.

Garreth and Milo move with ease through the woodlands, unseen by the almost jolly hobgoblins, they seem to even be treating their slaves and servants well. A few of their pet wolves will notice their passing into the woodland valley, but with them moving on away, they only playfully bark out. Which seems to be something they do a lot of anyway, when playing with their hobgoblin masters.

Those of you watching them disappear into the woods, might be concerned for them...

The Scouts Sight:
As Gareth and Milo approach the circle of trees they will see a grown over gazebo that looks well camped in. They will see a field on the far-side of the woodland valley. This is where the drums are coming from, about 15 bugbear drummers, beat great drums. Humans are being prepared for feast or sacrifice. One vat has boiled men, another pit has a few men roasting on sticks, there is also a cage of about 4 naked young women. All look filthy, bloody, and in bad shape.

There are more hairy, naked hippies. With thankfully enough hair on their bodies, that most of them are actually 'tastefully' covered for PG-13 rating. They seem to not care about the roast humans, and one old hippy stares salivating at the dead roasted men.

There are signs of excavation in several places, all stuff that looks to be built in local human towns, but all of the dig-spots Milo and Garreth will see are kicked over and destroyed. It is clear with Garreth's instincts that even the woodlands here are not native. There are flowers that are not right here.

You are likely standing on top of this once great city right now.

Even looking down in the dirt, Garreth will spot the tip of an ancient rusted anvil. This gazebo also might take closer examination, even in the overgrown ruined condition it is in.

[Gice]

"Hey Garreth, want to check out that Gazebo over there, it seems to be one of the last remains of whatever it was that used to be here" Milo whispers to Garreth. "Also, do you know what these flowers are? They seem out of place somehow, maybe this is some sort of cemetry."

It seems that one way to befriend the Goblinoids is to offer them some humans, he thinks.

[tuesdayscoming]

"Their tribe is very large. If those ones find us at night before we..." he pauses momentarily to let out a series of gruff clicks, "before making friends, it would be bad. Much better to sleep in your magic tent."

He watches as his two old companions go scurrying off into the dark, and his left antenna twitches.

[Airanath]

"Ker... I think I remember something about some Demon kisser cults in this area in the past.", the words for demon kisser cults come almost as spits from her mouth.
"I wonder if any cells survived around, would be a good offering. If we can get tools to realy destroy them, or imprison their "souls"..."
She faces the Thri-keen, "Indeed, it would be safer there, but we might not want to go right away, someone needs to wait for their return. We also don't want fires, it will draw attention. Luckly me and Ker can both see even if there is no lights. Think you have something else in your sleeve to keep us hidden untill their return? You never seem to run out of tricks to amuse me", she grims at her last comment.

[Torgarn]

Ker'ik'skara spits on the ground in front of him Demons, they'd as soon spit you as look at you. They have no vision

[BlueWizard]

Gazebo:
Garreth knows that some of these flowers are from as far away as his lands. There is a lot of different ones, among all the bushes, and trees. A lot of fruit trees not far from the gazebo. The sweet smell of apples, pears, and apricots is in the air.

It is a stone gazebo that has somehow survived out in the woods. It is partially broken, well-used as a shelter, possibly by trappers or hunters. It is grown over with vines, and trees, and a small opening allows one to get inside.

There might be something in there right now. Both scouts can hear snoring.


Hillside:
Those of you looking into the valley will be discovered by the goblinoid children coming back down the hillside, if you don't do something about their loud approach. {Not that you guys would be afraid of goblin children, but their shrieks are particularly loud.}

[Torgarn]

I'll be right back Ker'ik'skara walks off towards the noises coming down the hill making arcane gestures and muttering as he goes.

He casts invisibility on himself as he walks towards the noise.

[BlueWizard]

Ker'ik'skara sees the same goblin children that passed nearby not long before on the way up the hillside, following a stream.

[Torgarn]

Ker'ik'skara begins muttering under his breath waving his arms in small gestures.

Ker'ik'skara casts sleep on the goblins.

[Airanath]

If he is going to kill them, I hope he at least gags one and brings it back here, I could use an offering in tonights prayers."Thaliana complains, clearly upset about not being down there for the possible killing.

[Neftren]

"Kyaah! Some of these flowers I recognize! Apples, pears! Apricots?" He gives a small sniff. "That overgrown structure. It is some sort of gazebo-thing. Hunters used it as shelter... and something, is in it. Shall we take a look?" Garreth starts moving forward before he even gets a response. Turning back towards the goblin camp though, he quietly utters, "Those children might become a problem for us. I have no quarrel with them. Screw the big ones though. They've had enough pillaging and looting for one lifetime, let alone two." Garreth rubs a paw along his chin. "Say, they seem to like humans down there. Maybe we should offer one of our human-looking types to them? Anyway, gazebo." He approaches it cautiously...

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik nods in response to Thaliana's statement. He, too, was growing anxious; it seemed everyone but him was off chasing some thrill or another - even the lady seemed more or less content, dreaming of the blood her drone might at that very moment be shedding.

He raises up (on his tip-toes, as it were), straining to hear and to see what the tattooed one might be getting himself into.

[Gice]

Milo swiftly follows Garreth towards the gazebo, "They can take care of themselves.. At least the big ones always claim they are so strong, let them handle this..".
Milo searches the area around the gazebo to see if there are any tracks of anyone visited it lately or hints to what it's function once was besides shelter for hunters.. [roll0]

[BlueWizard]

Hillside:
All together the group of kids don't make up 4 HD. Their low wisdom also makes them susceptible to Ker'ik'skara's SLEEP spell. The goblin kids decide to take a late morning nap.

Thaliana will realize she has about 8 or 9 goblinoid kids laying asleep on the hillside thanks to Ker'ik'skara, if she wants to do something with them....

Ptik'drit won't see much, though he will eventually spot a worried couple of female hobgoblins, who seem to be calling for the lost children. They will follow the stream up, which will pass nearby.


Gazebo:
As Garreth approaches he will sneak up on an old goblin in raggedy robes who snoozes within. There is a shaft of light that shines light into this gazebo and he can see right in. It is all grown around with trees and vines, and is mostly enclosed, there is only one way into the small structure.
"Hm-Hm-hmf..." The old pointy eared goblin rolls over, his green skin pale. He is bald except for white whiskers on his chin and long pointy ears. "Strange visitors have I. Hm. Hm. Hm." The ancient goblin calmly rolls over and spots the cat-folk silently slipping into the shaded gazebo. He looks out at you with deep wisdom in his eyes, and even spots Milo hidden in the shadows behind Garreth. All this while laying down.

Milo will uncover broken in a bush pieces of a ceramic idol, or piece of art. It is a nude woman with dark hair and red eyes looking seductively up. The lower half is destroyed or missing.

[tuesdayscoming]

"The lady says she understands these small ones' speech? Does she hear the calling of the grown ones? What do they say?"

[BlueWizard]

They call goblin names.

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara ties the unconcious goblins up and gags them. He mutter some more and a slimy substance covers the goblins. He slides them down the hill back to his waiting companions where he ends his invisibility.

Ker'iki'skara uses grease on the goblins and take them down the hill.

[BlueWizard]

More goblins will come, even a few bugbears will come looking for the kids if too much time passes.

[Gice]

Milo puts the pieces of the ceramic idol in his backpack. Maybe this will help us figure out what used to be here, he thinks.

"Hoy" (a greeting in Goblin), Milo says to the old goblin. He continues in common, "we were just looking around in the area when we found this interesting gazebo, what are you doing here?."

Milo enters the gazebo and takes a look around at the interior of the gazebo.

[Neftren]

"Are you sure poking around his stuff is a good idea? Also, I don't speak Goblin. So, I suppose, if you can even understand me, or in Halfling, or in Gnoll... no, that'd be silly, could you kindly explain to us what your relation is to that hobgoblin camp outside?" Garreth flicks his head towards the direction of the goblin camp. As one wise non-human to another, Garreth bows his head. Ancient wisdom was no matter to idly shrug off.

[Airanath]

"Seems you are back just in time Ker... We might have more problems, or maybe even a solution, deepending on how we approach it." Thaliana says, hint of discontentment in her voice, while pointing to the shouting mothers.
"So we either sacrifice then and hide fast, or we clean them up, and show them to the women, claiming we just found them snoring over here, I don't think I have to point which has long term returns, as, maybe, an invitation to their town as guests."

[Torgarn]

Indeed, well then let's be about it. Ker'iki'skara unties the goblins and dismisses the sleep and grease spells upon them.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit crouches over the still-sleeping bodies of the goblin children. He clicks softly as he takes in the details of their form. Curious squishies, these.

As Ker'iki'skara begins to wake them, Ptik'drit stands and takes a few steps back. "We all go? What of Catman and the small one? Shall one of these ones wait?"

[BlueWizard]

Hillside:
Is the plan to wake the tiny goblin kids up?
Because they will be quite frightened.


Gazebo:
Smirking at Milo, the old green goblin chuckles, "My new home this gazebo is. A place of power it was. Yes. Mm-hmm."

Looking to the cat-man he smiles, "My adopted tribe those goblins are. Seek my advice they do. But, do they listen...." he shakes his head and sighs, still laying down, but looks into the woods at the drums beyond.

[Airanath]

Is the plan to wake the tiny goblin kids up?
Because they will be quite frightened.

Nop, let's keep them asleep, and give them back to their mothers that way, but surely without grease.
"I'll go call our 'friendly' ladies, you two keep an eye on the kids, and for the others. As for the catman and the hobbit... I don't like the idea of any of us staying out here in the open alone, something about this place seems out of place, we need to find a way to communicate with them at this distance somehow..." she says and walks calmly towards de goblin-ladies, shouting in goblin, "Madames? I couldn't notice you shouting some names. Mayhaps those would be some small goblins, " she goes on and gives a rough description of the kids, watching their faces, trying to read their expressions, when she sees the right mix of worry and relief, she goes on and points to the hill she came from, "We just arrived over that hill from our trip, on noticed some kids sleeping over there, since we couldn't figure out what to make of them we were watching over them, in case something happened, and figuring how to approach your village to give a warning. Its pretty dangerous for kids to sleep in places like that, never know what kind of rascals can find them, do we? Glad we found them thought, not a few days back, we had to deal with some highway man."

Bluff:[roll0]

[Neftren]

"Adopted tribe? Just how long have these other goblins been here? Actually, before you answer that, how long have you been here? What kind of advice do you give them anyway?"

[Gice]

Milo turns to look if he can see what the wise goblin is looking at. (spot: [roll0])
He takes the piece of the ceramic idol out of his backpack and shows it to the Goblin. "Can you tell us what used to be here, I found this in the bushes a few feet back, was it some sort of temple?"

"Oh and my name is Milo", he adds as he bows lightly to this apparent nice Goblin.

[BlueWizard]

Hillside:
The hobgoblin ladies are frightened, and will prostrate themselves before the priestess as she steps forward, and will order their goblin 'handmaidens' to do likewise. They will show utter fear and respect toward Thaliana.

The eldest of the three hobgob-ladies speaks, but will not look at Thaliana. She speaks only in the goblinoid tongue:
"We apologize. Mistress-Overlord. I can tell by your bearing you are an important priestess or noble-lord. Forgive our youths! They know not the laws and agreements of adults. We will tell them of the valley's border. None will leave Hob-town Valley."


Gazebo:
The old wise goblin rolls over, and sits up, still in his blanket.
He looks at the cat, "Many thoughts you have? Confusion? Been here? Been there? I be everywhere. Where have you been? Long time BEEN I. Morning since this gazebo been I. Here I like. Nice it feels. Great wizard am I. Much rest. Much need I." He will almost be ready to snooze again, when Milo shows him the idol.

Looking at the idol the old wizard nods, studying the broken idol with interest, his old eyes alive. He sits up, tying his ragged, smelly robe.
"Hmmm. Ancient and modern this great sin is. Hmmm. Yes. Goblins and Humans to Lust they both give."
He chuckles, admiring the idol. "Have it may I?"

He is just about to put it into one of his ragged robe's pouches.

[Torgarn]

What are they saying Thaliana, I don't happen to speak goblin

[Airanath]

Don't worry about that ladies, let's worry about getting them to safety right now. Would you like if we went down with you to help with this task? It might be hard to carry this many children while asleep between just you. My companion here has enough arms to safely carry at least two of them, and let the kids make a story of it later, you know how they like to brag about this kind of big adventure., she smiles to the goblins, nodding at them so they have time to consider.
They are worried we took offense of the kids climbing over the limits of their territory and trespassing into ours, to which I said they needn't worry, and offered our help into taking their infants back to their town, their safety is more important than a childish dare that might have brought them here, isn't it?, she smiles, a lot of unsaid words hidden in her eyes for Ker'ik'skar and Ptik'Drik to see, and a few, hidden only to herself.

[BlueWizard]

The kids can be easily stirred, the older ones will copy the mothers, though a few tiny goblin tikes will cry loudly, especially seeing the big Thir-kreen in the trees. The priestess' guardian?

The mothers will scold the children and chase them back down the hill, unless you feel you need to escort them.

[Airanath]

Seeing that the goblin woman won't accept the help offer.
Do you ladies think we could impose on your hospitality for this night? We could pay for it or help somewhere else, its not really comfortable out here with this rain. Even a stable or barn would be good enough, we just need a roof to keep the worse of the rain way, and maybe use of some fire, to cook., she says to the goblin woman in a pleading tone.

[BlueWizard]

The older hobgoblin lady whimpers, "No apologies. Please. We accept all you give. Come. Come. We bring you to the chief. He is in ceremony, but surely would honor such guests." Or kill them, Ptik'drit might think knowing the morals of classic goblinoids.
"No need for payment. Surely, the chief will give you his tent. Maybe even his wives... or sons..." She blushes, still prostrate before the priestess.

[Torgarn]

What is she babbling about Thaliana?

[Gice]

"Of course you may have it, it is broken though." Milo says as he gives the broken idol to the goblin wizard, I can probably find another one somewhere around, he thinks.

Hearing that the wizard has been here quite some time, he might know a thing or two about the lost city we are looking for. He asks: "do you know if there are any remains of the city that used to be here? Maybe some sort of cave system or ruins?"

[Airanath]

We are going to the village, I asked them for shelter for this rain, and she says it would be an honor to have us. She'll take us to her leader, so he can offer us all the hospitality of their tribe. She says.
Ptik, let's get settled, and if it wouldn't be imposing to much on you, could you find the others here later? After they are done seeking for any places to rest, and tell them to meet us in town.

On the way to the village she goes on talking to the goblin women, trying to pierce some light into their religion, customs, how long they have been settled here, and what cerimony is being held, discreetly.
Gather Information [roll0]

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit mutters a few rapid clicks to himself as Thaliana explains the plan. He again scans the village, a bit nervously.

"Careful with their promises, lady. This one fears deception. They are tricksy, these goblins, and this one worries we may be walking into a trap... Still, this one will do as the lady thinks is wise. Does she want that this one should find them now?"

His antennae twitch rapidly, as if tasting the air for some sign of deception. "Perhaps it is better if they are not discovered..."

[Airanath]

No, let's get settled first, you can find them after that, she whispers softly, hinting she is also not keen on giving trust to them.

[BlueWizard]

Hillside: {Ptik, Ker'iki'skar, and Thaliana}
Ptik'drit will be waiting for a while it seems...

Goblinoids come in many colors, but greens, grays, yellows tend to be prominent especially in brown tones. Thaliana and Ker'iki'skar are led down into the valley, where they will travel past denser areas of goblinoids, upping Thaliana's guesstimation of the total amount by hundreds.

They will come upon a literal tent village surrounding the 'event' of Hob-town. 15 bugbear drummers beat massive human-skin drums with human thigh bones. A wooden structure has already been built and there at the top of it is an armored hobgoblin with a ridiculous helmet that is huge, and elaborate. Painted gold and silver, it has silver eagle wings that spread above and shine brightly in the sun.

Humans are being prepared for feast or sacrifice. One vat has boiled men, another pit has a few men roasting on sticks, there is also a cage of about 4 naked young women. All look filthy, bloody, and in bad shape. {Milo and Garreth did not see the chief's structure for it is set around the bend of the valley from their approach to the gazebo.}

The hairy hippies here are naked, and seem to be taking part in the ceremony's dance.{Which the soldiers do to the drumbeats.} The chieftain was currently praising the heavens above, as about 50 hobgoblin soldiers danced at the foot of the structure. The soldiers wore a mix-match of armor, mostly leather and long-swords. 8 Bug-bears in plate flanked the hobgoblin chief shouting, and giving thanks to his many ancestors, who he address by their full name, and their family's. The intense drums seem to keep the soldiers from falling asleep, as the chief's voice is quite boring to listen to.

About this time one of the 4 naked young women will be dragged up to the chief to be sacrificed, and it will be this that the many hobgoblin soldiers seem to anticipate. The old lady hobgoblin will slow up not wanting to interrupt at this point. After all, Thaliana will quickly realize, this hobgoblin is some priest of Hell, and deserves some respect. His manner of wicked ceremony will quickly reveal itself to her, once she sees through the hobgoblin's cultural approach to the Hellish religion.
{The victim is screaming horribly the whole way, but two bugbears are far too much for her as she is brought before the chief.}



Gazebo: {Milo and Garreth}
The old green skinned goblin's brown eyes sparkle as he is handed the idol, and he lustfully cradles the idol's shoulders and neck. "Hmm... Yes... great beauty these humans once had." He finally looks back at Milo, still seated on his mat. "Great was this city. Long ago Goblin worked with Man, Man with Goblin. Many years before my time. Chief Uglalalaah is first to make peace with humans in many generations. Guardian of the hobgoblins I am, but not from the humans. From the very catacombs and buried city that hides the treasure and demons you seek. Hmmm?" He smirks, pushing by Milo gently to look out into the woods toward the drums.

"Guests we have? Friends of yours?" Milo and Garreth will not see anything but beautiful woodlands and some birds.

[Airanath]

Seems we may have some friends here, friends mayhaps, well seen in our lord eyes Ker, Thaliana whispers to Ker in infernal. Slowing as much as the goblin ladies, and paying attention, deeply interested, to the rituals. Glad we didn't have to do anything hash, at least for now, she continues in the same tonge, clear pleasure in her eyes with every word spoken, as everytime she uses the hellish tongue, the words coming from her lips like honey and poison, all so sweet, and all so dangerous, at the same time.
Knowledge(Religion): [roll0]

[Torgarn]

I wonder if they will allow me in on this Ker'iki'skara mutters gleefully.

[Neftren]

"Wait, let me get this straight. Humans and Goblins were friends once?" Garreth rubs a paw through his mane before continuing, "Chief Uglala okay I won't even try. Anyway, your chief is on friendly terms with humans? Does that mean you're sacrificing them, eating them, pillaging and raping ... ?" Garreth cryptically raises an eyebrow. This was getting creepy. First a random hobgoblin village appears over the ruins of an old city. Then some creepy old and wrinkly goblin claiming to be their "protectors" from the creepy city. "Hmmmm. If humans are your friends, why would you need protection from them? Why even bring that up? What exactly are you protecting these goblins from anyway? You said you were a wizard. What kind of magical defenses might we encounter on our way in?" Garreth presses the goblin for answers, leaving out a few of the connecting thoughts and questions in the process.

"Friends? What friends?" He whirls around, looking off into the woods beyond the clearing. He turns his head towards Milo and whispers, "Nobody else came with us, right?" Garreth slides a paw down towards his blade.

[Gice]

"Maybe they're searching for us because something happened? Shall I investigate?" Milo whispers back in halfling. He doesn't leave the gazebo yet, eagerly waiting for more stories of the Goblin.

[Neftren]

"I'm not sure that's such a good idea. It could be a trap, in which case we would be better off in here. This is a slightly more defensible position. If it is a trap though, we're probably dead anyway, unless this old toad can help us out..."

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit, unaccustomed to waiting like this, proceeds to pass the time by stretching, leaping into and from the branches of nearby trees, and clicking 'folk-songs' from his tribe to himself. As he does so, he continues to scan the valley and the strange circle of trees for any signs of trouble.

[BlueWizard]

Chief's Sacrifices:
Thaliana will know the ceremony, especially when 2 armored bugbears lead out a giant slug. Thaliana and Ker'iki'skara will likely be one of the few non-goblins watching the ceremony. BAALZEBUL.

A few hippies will puke as they watch the chief/slug/victim orgy. Mid-Orgy by the second girl, Ker'iki'skara will be spotted by the chief as he is slaying the girl mid-'ceremony'.

Thaliana is noticeable as a priestess. Ker'iki'skara is like a sign from their gods, and not only will Ker'iki'skara be invited, he will become an honored guest.

The chief will not want to stop the ceremony, and will offer the 2nd victim to Ker'iki'skara to be killed.

{OOC- This scene will 'shortened', and we need to be careful what is printed on the boards. Needless to say, both Thaliana and Ker'iki'skara will become the focus of even the druids, who seem to stay back, not wanting to interfere with goblin-business.}

Once this bloody sacrifice kills the four ladies. Speaking in Infernal, the chief will invite Thaliana and Ker'iki'skara to: "Feast upon the soft parts!!!" The true delicacies for all the humanoid-eaters. And being offered first would show how much the two Hellions were respected by all the hobgoblins, especially the chief with the gaudy helmet.

Thaliana will know this 'human-feast' is a goblin adaptation of the Baalzebul cult. Though there were plenty of organized orgies in almost all branches of Hell.

By evening, if they decide to stay, Ker'iki'skara and Thaliana will be guests of honor, even getting to bed in the hobgoblin chieftain's hidden tent-palace.

{OOC- Of course, for some reason you all want to interrupt the ceremony, I can retro a bit...}
Chief telling his hobgoblins, in goblin-tongue. "Save some meat for tomorrow. For tomorrow it shall bring the flies!!! Thank the Lord of the Flies for he has sent us his allies!!!"


Gazebo:
The old goblin wizard giggles, "M-hm. Friends, yes. And now once again. New human village very friendly to goblin-kind. Yes. Friends again."

"No more pillaging. No more raping. These humans sacrificed attacked our settlers. Nothing more.

I protect goblins from the demons of the ruins. Nothing more."
He shrugs as if it is old news.

"I seek not the lost human city below. Many ways down, and many magical defenses. All too much for old goblin like me. I have no interest in treasure. Hm-ah! I know not of what you speak, nor desire to uncover or unravel what may be hidden beneath. Dark Cthulhu you may uncover. What then, Hmmm?"

He opens one eye wide, and actually stands to try and look Garreth in the eye.

The old man will shrug off Garreth's comment on friends, and continues to look toward the drumming.

Thir-kreen in the Woods:
Alone in the woods Ptik'drit can almost disappear as he sits in the treetops. Even keenly aware wolves will be unaware of the Thirkreen as he sits and waits, ready to come to the aid of his allies on a moments notice.

The sun will start to set and the drums will stop if Ptik'drit stays too long.
{OOC- I appreciate the posts like this, I feel even little posts help keep you in the flow of your PC. Sometimes it is the solo PC that gets jumped... :sabine:}

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara begins chanting quietly, a dark bag full of torturing implements materializing in his hand.

Ker'iki'skara casts black bag

[Neftren]

Clearly amused by the Goblin's attempt to reach the same level, Garreth bends down and looks him in the eye. "Ah, so you are sacrificing humans." He stands up straight again. "What sorts of demons can you tell us about? Tentacled beasts, or more... humanoid creatures?"

[Airanath]

Thaliana joins the cerimony, but tries to not overstep into the rites of the goblins, seeing she lacks some knowledge of their culture, but she offers her own prayers and rituals to Baalzebub as allowed.
To Ker'iki'skara and the chief, as she points to the heart of the still living woman, she says, Stillbeating heart, pumping her life, as she suffers and dies, he sends to the feast the flies.
She removes the heart when allowed, taking a small parts for her, Ker'iki'skara, and the Chief, and placing the greatest part of it to rot and bring the flies.
We share your feast, for all that live decays, and when it all ends, we shall offer you the last of the days.

Wish I could summon a swarm of flies =(.

[tuesdayscoming]

Barring any unforeseen occurrences, Ptik'drit will continue on in this fashion until approximately 45 minutes after Thaliana and Ker'iki'skara leave for the village. After this time, peering towards the circle of trees, he will begin to become worried about his long time companions, and will begin moving towards the grove that was their stated destination, hopping from tree to tree in the hopes of avoiding unwanted notice.

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara pulls a jagged blade from his conjured bag. Using it he cuts the woman's liver out of her body. He takes a large bite out of it, then placing it near the heart smiles Delicious.

[BlueWizard]

Gazebo:
Ptik'drit leaping smoothly above the trees can move unnoticed by any below, and will reach the gazebo much faster than Milo or Garreth who moved stealthily on the ground.

"I sacrifice them not." Ptik'drit hears a goblinoid voice speaking imperial-common insisting from the circle of trees. "Warned them of great dangers. Yes. Did they listen. No. Non-demonic dangers, protect them I cannot."

He looks into the trees out of the gazebo, Ptik'drit will see the old goblin at the same time. Ptik'drit will see that his companions are in conversation with this old little green skinned fellow. "See. Your friend. Knew he was coming. Yes. Very interesting. Thir-kreen. Yes. Very interesting." The old goblin with a small cane will hobble out of the gazebo for this. Wearing a beat-up tan robe he buckles a dark brown belt as he steps out into the sun, squinting.

Milo and Garreth will see a little in the shadowy gazebo. The ceiling with a big hole was likely once decorated, but now is blackened with soot from many fires, there was still embers from this old guys fire from the morning likely.

Turning back to Garreth to address his question,
"No interest in demons and aberrations, have I.
If insist upon meeting them you will.
Needing electricity and cold is useless.
Cold iron is often the key."

He will stretch and yawn, and gaze out toward the drums, squinting hard in the light.



Sacrifce:
Oh, flies come. And they are swarming. What the chief is interested in eating is the nutrient rich maggot-meat in the morning...

The chief seems able to summon flies in droves, or maybe it is just the dried blood and heat upon the wooden structure.

By now Thaliana will realize these naked dudes were the remaining evil hippies. Those poverty loving nature-extremists have been a thorn in the side of many dukes and knights in the Wild Northern Kingdom. Not long ago there was a great battle. Evil Nudists vs the Heroes of Sunhaven.*
The hippies call it a massacre.
{*Sunhaven is a nearby county a few days horse-ride, where a good sun cult has formed a town... another PC-founded town.}

[tuesdayscoming]

Seeing that he has been noticed, Ptik'drit lets off a few quiet clicks, swearing to himself.

He bounds down from the tree, forming a right angle between himself, the goblin, and his companions, with the goblin as the crux.

"The others have been taken to the village," he mutters to his old friends while staring fixedly at the goblin. The claws on his lower hands ball into tight fists. "Old one," he continues, how do you know of this one's people? This one cannot believe that a brood would have come to this place." He almost spits the last words, which come out like a fast-hissing burst of steam.

[Gice]

"W-w-wow.." Milo stutters as he indeed sees Ptik'drit coming down from the trees, impressed by the awareness and senses of the old Goblin.
"This is indeed our friend" he says to the goblin, before quickly turning to Ptik to ask "Taken to the village? By who? Were they captured or were they invited?

And don't worry about this wizard, he has given us lots of information that may be useful to us." he adds as he smiles and nods at the old goblin.

[tuesdayscoming]

"The lady and the painted drone went willingly," he mutters, his speech interspersed with even more guttural clicks than usual.

Although his fists unclench, Ptik'drit does not seem reassured by the halfling's comment. If anything, he seems even more on-guard; reflexively, he draws in a deep breath and straightens out his antennae - thereby making himself look larger to hide that he is dipping into a shallow crouch.

[BlueWizard]

The old wizened goblin looks wistfully at the drums, and shakes his head sadly.

[Neftren]

"Great, so, we're going to need a supply of cold iron weapons." Garreth fills in the rest to Ptik'drit. "So this gobbo here did this and that, and is now some sort of great wizard, protecting the village, which apparently the village and the human village are now on friendly terms, so they're now sacrificing some humans that attacked them." Clearly, Garreth's urge to get all the information out left some holes in the story. "So anyway, now that I've told you almost everything, what's our plan?" Garreth rubs his paws together cheerily. "I don't think it would be a good idea to bust our way in. I'm worried if we walk in though, we'll get... sacrificed to their weirdo cult deity thingy."

[BlueWizard]

The old goblin shrugs, and waddles back into the gazebo.
"Not likely."

[Torgarn]

S'karist al nomunar keshla. Ker'iki'skara growls in Infernal.

Bring on the next sacrifice for all you infernal speakers.

[tuesdayscoming]

Seeing the nonchalant way that the old goblin behaves, Ptik'drit's mind begins to race... that a teetering old soft-skin (a cripple, no less, judging by the cane!) should behave so calmly... something is simply... not right...

His eyes follow the teetering goblin, and he is only half listening to the beginning of Garreth's explanation – up until the words "great wizard" pass his lips. At this, Ptik's left antenna snaps back down for but a moment. His head snaps to the left, and he scans his companions' faces for anything amiss.

His mind races back to the magics of his own people. Impressive, even terrifying feats that he himself had never discovered a talent for... Magics of the mind that would twist the will of others, perverting their characters and transforming them into something... else. He remembers the influence of the great mothers, driving entire broods with but a single thought.

Was it possible that Milo and Garreth had fallen prey to something of the like? They are calm – comfortable in the middle of the wilds, so far from home, and standing in the glade of a curious and, perhaps, quite dangerous stranger. But he can see no evidence of such an influence, and the magics of his people, he had been learning, were of a very different sort than he had seen outside of the desert. Perhaps his concerns were unfounded...

But even the simple fact that the goblin is so obviously old is mildly terrifying to Ptik'drit... His people were comparatively short lived, he had come to learn, and the possibilities for what such age might bring were truly beyond the scope of his imagination.

The world was such a large place. Larger than he had ever dreamed. And it was moments such as these that most brought his attention to his own otherness. This was not his world.

The damned sweater itches again...

He turns his gaze towards the ground for a moment, and forces himself to stand straight again. He releases the breath he had been holding, and looks back up at the goblin.

"This one... thanks you for your... hospitality," he starts (obviously struggling to reproduce what bits of social niceties he had gleaned from his limited time outside the desert), "and even more for the information that... that you have given his friends."

At this point he even attempts a shallow bow. After rising, he turns to his companions and shoots them a look that they might recognize as showing a certain amount of nervousness, as if he was asking "how was that?"

"Now is no time for violence. It seems that these ones are welcomed by this tribe. For now, this one thinks it would be best if these ones were to rejoin the others. This one has been seen by the tribe already, and it is known with whom he travels. These ones should be welcomed too, he thinks."

[BlueWizard]

Around the Gazebo:
{OOC- No need for spoiler I like the background.}

Ptik'dit will believe his friends are normal, though magicks could even account for this. The old goblin looks at the Thir-Kreen, and is pleased. "Careful in the human land. Dangerous. Yes. Very Dangerous. Trophy Hunters abound. Hmm. Yes."

When Ptik'drit suggests they join the others, the old goblin agrees.
"Yes, meet chief. Yes."

To the Sacrifices:
It seems the 3 'mercenaries' will get to witness the brutal slug-orgy-sacrifice. Then once it is over, they will be asked to join in the feast, though the soft and special parts will not be offered to them.

It is clear that the ritual is unprintable, and after Ker'iki'skara is glowing with power and confidence. {Not literally, but he is full of life, and vibrance.}
Ker'iki'skara knows for sometime he will have some boosted strength and endurance, and even confidence.

The old goblin will disappear into the woods after leading the three over to watch. It will be assumed, because of the old lady hobgoblin, that Milo and Garreth are with Ptik'drit, and thus with the the Hellions.

Everyone will be together by the feast.

[BlueWizard]

After the feast there is, of course, another orgy.

The hippies seem especially down for this. Thaliana does not see one human or goblin among the bunch that is attractive at all, however the mighty war-chief has a high charisma. He has many mates of many races. Chief Uglalalaah will invite the priestess and tiefling to his palatial tent, which is set back into the woods near a clean and peaceful brook and guarded by many naked lady hippies.

Milo, Ptik'drit, and Garreth will be welcomed into the officer's corp party of the elite hobgoblins. Here there are even elfin and human slaves.

All of you will be shocked to find the condition of these 'tent' homes erected by the elite hobgoblins. They are quite furnished, and the chief's tent even has magically 'air-conditioned' rooms, though at the moment his bedroom was a comfy 72-F.
There are mighty bugbear soldiers in full plate that guard the tent, and even a cult of Baalzebul priests with their own large black temple-tent. These hobgoblin priests, mostly priestesses, will invite Thaliana and Keri'iki'skara to worship at their chamber.

Milo will become aware of a simple trade-station that has been set up near the officer's tent-complex. This particular canyon was quite packed with gobbos! Prices for common items are cheaper, Milo would want to examine some of this crappy stuff before he bought any weapons. Though one sword-vendor had a full rack of stolen imperial long-swords of military make. Probably stolen by pirates sold in bulk to this hobgob sword merchant.

The night-life is when the goblinoids get going, the night booms on in New Hobtown. This evening you will encounter someone else. A strange hunter...
{OOC- Transferring a surviving bad-ass PC, she will be slightly ahead of you guys, but I am sure another 'gun' to the cause will help...}

The night is yours to explore as New Hob-town awakens at night. It will be exciting as few non-goblins have ever experienced goblins living in forest environments there are hundreds, maybe thousands who will come just to even stroll through these woods. So long have they been forced to live underground. Even being cemented down below by ancient knights.

[Gice]

Milo is rather disgusted by what he had seen and it takes a while for him to process everything that happened. He only occasionally heard of 'ceremonies' like these but didn't know they actually were performed.

He saunters across the trade station, seeing if he finds anything out of the usual that might strike him as being potentially useful at some time in the future given the information of the old goblin wizard.
He also keeps a look out for any cold-iron weapons or items since the goblin specifically warned them about that.

[Torgarn]

After the festivities cool down Ker'iki'skara addresses the chief in Infernal. Kalima persil al morfon iktarim lorsol. Kersol tatiti yeiois porliet sijfrim lorisat.

For all of ya who speak infernal: While this has been refreshing we have matters we need to speak of. I don't know if you are aware of the nearby ruins, but they are the reason we are here. If you have any information on them, I would appreciate it.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit finds himself uncomfortable at first, surrounded by so many unknown goblins. As the festivities go on (and particularly around the time that the swarms of flies come), he will begin to loosen up, and will eventually lose himself in the festivities.

Given his anatomy, it is quite unlikely that Ptik'drit will be indulging in the orgies, but the scent of blood in the air, the drums, the dancing, the meat, and the sounds of the buzzing insects brings him back to times of happiness and celebration in the desert.

After indulging in the feast, Ptik'drit will explore the town. The blood-fueled ecstasy he felt earlier has likely faded a bit by now, but he remains more comfortable around the goblins than he originally thought that he would. He takes in the sights, the sounds, the smells, and takes every opportunity that he can to listen intently to the strange and curious language of their hosts. While wandering around, he will amuse himself by attempting to force his mandibles to reproduce the words he hears.

He will also join Milo in his search for cold iron weapons, but will become distracted frequently, and will every few minutes ask the halfling to translate a particular goblin phrase for him.

He continues on in this fashion until something rouses his attention, or until the party has died and the town sleeps.

If the former, he will react to whatever has roused him.

If the latter, he, not needing to sleep, will pass the night in the trees, searching for wildlife. He will spring down on the largest animal he finds (that he doesn't think stands a chance of killing him), poison it with his bite, spring back into a tree, and wait for the poison to paralyze the creature.

Then, he will leap back down, and will quickly kill the animal in such a way as to keep it looking as undamaged as possible (slit its throat with a claw, probably).

He takes the corpse back to the old goblin's glen. If the goblin is asleep or not present, he will carefully lay the corpse by the gazebo, and will then quietly leave.

Afterwards, he will go to the top of the highest tree he can find, and watch the horizon for the rising sun.

[Airanath]

Thaliana takes a break at any non offensive moment to make some purchases in the market.
She'll buy a tent, a week of rations, a waterskin, a bucket, soap, a blank book, a pen, ink and some charcoal.

[Gice]

As Milo sees Thaliana buy things at the market, he'll warn her that not everything is of the quality she might expect.

He also asks her "how long until we can continue on our task?"

[BlueWizard]

Ptik'drit will likely eat a surprisingly large portion compared to what others eat....

Not all hobgoblin soldiers took part in this sacrifice-orgy. The more 'religious' among the goblinoid soldiers did. Others still seemed to serve some goblin deities, but it is clear that the Hell cult was in the position of power here.

Those of you tiring of the nastiness can wander into this rough-and-tumble trade region, of various tent shoppes. There is even a few small platforms where bad actor-goblins perform for small crowds... of maybe 3 or 5.
Milo will find some officers also gambling, and he will be encouraged to play their fixed card and dice games. There is a clear class distinction, and any of the goblins or lesser hobgoblins will grumble and hiss in goblin, and point toward some armored soldier-officer looking fellow.

The officers hobgoblins are a little wary, but seem ready to drink and be merry with these strange new visitors.

When Ker'iki'skara talks of the ruins the priestess's laugh, even the chief joins the laughter. {Only the elite of the hobgoblins understood the tiefling.} "Yes. I know of these ruins. But. We have an agreement. And we goblins do not enter those lands. And the demons do not come." The chief answers in infernal.

Milo {and Ptik'drit after the Thir-kreen is done eating dinner} will find an old hobgoblin blacksmith who works in some cold iron. He has only a few items pre-made. Milo has never heard good things about goblin-craftsmen in his Guild conversations.

Thaliana will find all things for about the same price she might in a human town, though the condition of some is less than desirable, as Milo had advised. Tent fabric-questionable. Rations from goblin town? Doesn't taste too good, but will provide sustenance. Decent bucket and soap- scented by local roses. Blank book older, nice, but likely stolen out of a wizard's library 75 years ago. Pen, ink, charcoal will be bought from one of the hobgob-priestesses.

Ptik'drit will likely wander far to find big-game, for the goblin-kin here have spooked many. Around dawn, Ptik'drit can wander a bit and find a nice tasty deer to hunt down. He will still feel imbued with whatever strengths the ceremony gave him, and he found his leaps were even more spectacular. Likely catching the eyes of more than of few of those goblin-kids.
The old goblin is not in the gazebo when Ptik'drit return with the gift.

[Airanath]

Worry not Milo, I am interested in usefullness right now, if I wanted higher quality goods I would have stocked before coming. As for our mission, we shall return to it tomorrow, Ker is talking to the chief, learning where the ruins are, I just came to gather some stuff that could be useful in a ruin delving. We are allowed to loot it, even more if what I hear of demons around is true, so you might want to take an extra sack or two. She buys a burlap sack just as she says that, and throws most of the stuff in there, except for the book, she keeps that close to her at all times. ((Going to turn it into a travel log, write any important info there and such, also, blank book means I can remove pages to copy text from walls in the ruins, never know what one might unearth.))
Even with the precarious quality, she buys the items, better be safe than sorry, even the stole blank book, by now the wizard forgot about it probably, or even didn't care enough to begin with. But she does haggle the price of the book.
Once done, she rejoins Ker and the goblins untill its time for sleep.

[BlueWizard]

Sleep will happen in the morning for most of these goblin-kin. Plenty of sacks, though Thaliana will pick through to find sacks clean enough for her use. The book is blank and old, if it had magical spells, surely someone would come looking for it, so Thaliana should feel safe with it. She can save a little in haggling for it.

[Torgarn]

Yersil kikir ifoid lofim iffei.

In Infernal: Will you give us aid in our endeavors with the ruins?

[BlueWizard]

The chief will laugh at the tiefling. Stll speaking infernal for his elite-elite. "No chance in Hell! We want to stay far from those accursed halls. Be our guests if you wish to face dark, wild magic. For that is what you will get in the ancient underground... Some goblins come back so twisted, we are forced to 'put them down'. You speak with the Gun-lady: Agathe. She knows the way. She's been there. I believe she wants aid. None of my people dare go, or I will eat them myself. Heh-heh-heh" The chief seems proud, and pats his solid armored belly. His priestesses laugh too.

By the witching-hours, Milo, Ptik'drit, and Garreth will become aware of another strange human in this community. It is a lady, with strange long thin weaponry. She has brown hair, and white eyes, and seems to be of some esteem among these hobgoblins. She seems to be very popular with the common-folk goblin-kin.

[Torgarn]

Ikthar porsol virstim yersik. Geris derya optir miorn.

I will keep that in mind. I'll make sure to meet with Agathe. If you won't give us troops, would you be willing to help us with supplies?

[BlueWizard]

The chief points Ker'iki'skara toward the tented shoppes. "You can find supplies there." Still speaking infernally.

Meeting Agathe will likely happen around the tent-shop trade-district.

She is the non-goblinoid losing at cards to the cheating officers.

[Gice]

"Oh great, another human I'm probably not allowed to kill" Milo thinks as he walks into the blacksmith's shop. His body language clearly shows signs of cropped up anger.

"What weapons from cold iron do you have in supply?", he asks the blacksmith in Goblin. Not even with the intention of buying anything outright, but more just waiting to check if the quality is as low as his guild says.

[BlueWizard]

The smith shows his wares, the cold-iron looks decent enough. Nothing special to look at, but Milo thinks it might actually work!

[Torgarn]

Poerlak yerko ferotim gofir teritil.

Inferanl brah: I have one last question then before i will leave you to your rest. Do you have any arcanists in your camp whom I might converse with?

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit will also buy several large sacks, a backpack, and a week's worth of rations.

While at the cold-iron dealer's shop, he will browse the goods searching for a "two-handed" weapon whose haft is long enough to accommodate his additional limbs. A halberd or greataxe would be ideal, but he will have to take what he can find.

[BlueWizard]

The chief will point out some wizards to Ker'iki'skara, "But, I think they all suck. Except for that old coot. He's a good one to have around. He's somewhere around here... he's not too religious." Still speaking infernally to Kerik.

Ptik'drit will be well supplied, but may find the 'lizard' food more palatable for his tastes.

Meeting Agathe:
When anything about the 'underground or lost city' is asked, all intelligent or officer hobgoblins will point to the one they call the "Blackpowder-Smith" or Agathe. She seems to be in a position of importance in this village, in that the goblinoids all seem wowed by her, oooing at her strange weaponry.

When you all meet she will be in a card game with silver-copper on the table, mostly NOT in front of Agathe. They will be wanting her to put up her weapons as coin, but clearly couldn't match its value.

{OOC- Everyone please give an quick description, and intro if desired. At some point in the witching hours, at the peak of goblinoid night-life, you will all meet Agathe. Whether sent by the chief, officers or other. And welcome LordoftheDucks.}

The hobgoblin officers all welcome the strange visitors to the gambling table and will gladly let their game be interrupted by honored guests.

[GrassyGnoll]

The "Blackpowder-Smith" sits upright, a traveler's cloak draped over the back of her chair. A curious staff, fashioned with two hollow iron bars and a handle, hangs off the seat by a leather strap. Agathe wears an off-white, brown & red stained, long-sleeved shirt. She sports a pair of overalls, suspender straps hung at her sides. Her hand... isn't going to win this round, clearly.

The gambling huntress turns to greet the nongoblinoid company. Her eyes are vacant, opaque. Her skin is flushed of color and flecked with livid sores. The waft of putrefied flesh that escapes her layered clothing makes a last, visceral hint at her condition.

"Howdy. Name's Agathe. Can I help you?"

[BlueWizard]

As Agathe turns to greet you, one hobgoblin spotted by Garreth and Milo, makes the worst sleight-of-hand move, putting two Aces into his hand. Ptik'drit would not know what is going on with the pieces of painted wood-ships {the cards}. None of the other hobgoblins saw this for they were looking at you all as was Agathe- who actually saw it too with her head turned, but she's been onto these guys for a while.

Kerik and Thaliana also missed the move, likely because they were looking at Agathe.

[Gice]

"Let's talk about that later", Milo says, "let us first start with helping you." he says as he walks to the cheating hobgoblin.

"Apparently, this guy doesn't like a fair game of cards. He just took two aces when you looked away." he explains as he taps the hobgoblin on his shoulder.

[BlueWizard]

"Really now..." Say the other hobgoblin officers, looking back to the obvious cheater, all gleefully willing to prosecute it seems.

"Nonsense. Speaks a halfling!" the obvious cheater calls out.

The hobgoblin officers look back to Milo to see if this is truly nonsense. One speaks timidly, "You need proof."

Another looks at the unshuffled deck, "Well, if there are doubled cards..."

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe 'coughs' into her sleeve, surreptitiously chomping down the two pair she had hid up her cuffs.

"Scandalous!" she pitches in, "If the accused doesn't want to play cards, maybe he'll wager on five-finger fillet!"

The huntress pulls a hollow-ground skinning knife. She sticks it in the table between herself and the cheat.

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara searches the camp, asking around for the old wizard until he eventually finds him, I hear your the only wizard worth his salt in this camp, I was hoping we could exchange spells from our respective spellbooks.

[Airanath]

Thaliana watches the exchange, enjoying the tension in the air.
She readies herself to cast a spell should the goblin try to flee - cutting the hands out of cheaters never ceases to amuse her.

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe leans over the table. She plucks out the dagger and begins to trace her hand.

"Count the cards if you'd like. I just want a chance to win my coin back. Fair's fair."

Agathe jabs her knife into the table again, a hair's breadth from her thumb. She stabs the table between her thumb and index, back over her thumb, between her index & middle, etc. till she's illustrated the stabbing order (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNnI0qiAOOs&feature=related). She produces an inch of wick from her pack and hands it to the nearest goblin.

"Light this when I say 'go'. Whoever makes the most rounds in thirty seconds wins."

The ranger starts a new betting pool on the knife game with five shining gold pieces. She waits until the goblins around the table have thrown in their lots and selected a judge. {Place your bets, if you'd like. While you can't 'cheat' five finger fillet the conventional way, Agathe's banking on her dead nerves and steady hand.}

[tuesdayscoming]

Upon approaching the card game, Ptik'drit seems carefree, absorbed in all the goings-on of the bustling hobgoblin night-life. A thri-kreen, he is a creature decidedly out of place in Diamondell - a fact only highlighted by the somewhat comic dark red turtleneck sweater he finds himself constantly scratching with his lower arms, which jut out from holes cut haphazardly in the fabric.

He is twirling the ball at the end of his massive, cold iron flail - a brand new acquisition - as he enters, but stops when he notices the human at the table. He sets the haft of the weapon against the ground and glances towards Milo. He was never sure what to expect when the short one was around humans."Calm," he clicks under his breath, though any who hear it will not be able to tell if he is speaking to his companion or to himself.

His mandibles chatter lightly and he breathes out a long breath when he realizes that Milo's intentions with the woman are friendly. He relaxes visibly, and half-walks, half-leaps behind the cheating goblin. He crouches down behind him, peering at the strange symbols on the cards in his hand. In Ptik's almost mirrored-silver eyes, the others at the table just might be able to see the goblin's hand.

He stands abruptly as Agathe draws the knife, the light on the blade an immediate call to attention. He watches her intently as she sets-up the game, his mandibles clicking and antenna twitching as he leans over the heads of the goblins for a better view.

{OOC: What language is being spoken at the table? If Goblinoid, the bug is going to have a hard time following the goings-on}

[BlueWizard]

Ker'iki'skara will not find the old wizard, and may be gone a long time. He may have to meet Agathe later.

With Agathe:
Milo saw the sleeve of this hobgoblin, and when it is pointed out the hobgoblins all eager move to cut his hand off. The cheater will have to be pinned, and he screams bloody murder, but he indeed had several Aces in the up his sleeve.

The finger-game will scare all the hobgoblins, and they will force the cheater to play this game, instead. Agathe will win, and the hobgobs are even more gleeful when the cheater-hob stabs his hand.

Ptik'drit will be frustrated. Mostly the hobgoblins speak goblinoid, but the officers seem to understand imperial-common.

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe takes part in the coerced game of bishop. Since nobody bets on the non-consenting player she rakes her lonely gold pieces back in and, soured by her lack of profit, excuses herself from the table.

"So, what's your business," she addresses the nongoblinoid party. She holds out a hand to shake. It's cold to the touch.

"Wauer, Agathe. Wilderness guide, trapper, tracker, sharpshooter. Looking for something? Someone? I'll find it, for the right offer."

Agathe throws on her heavy traveler's cloak. When she stands up, those she's facing can spot the second blackpowder pipe-thing strapped to her leg. A longsword and targe hang on her belt, as do two... ox horns?

[BlueWizard]

You all can hang in Hob-town... or follow Agathe.

Or go elsewhere, the goblinoids all seem to like you though.

[Gice]

"Milo is the name" he shakes Agathe's hand.

"We're going to the ruins tomorrow, are you willing to come along? You seem to have come prepared.." Milo asks as he looks at his companions, waiting for a approving nod.

"It shows that we are more trustworthy than these hobgoblins.."

[Airanath]

Thaliana, pleased to make your acquietance. Sadly the goblin didn't lose his dirty little cheating hand...
She makes a small nod, fit to aknowledge someone of lower ranking, but still respectful.
And yes, I agree with Milo, we could use another pair of hands. We are going to be pissing on some demon den, I would like to welcome more arms and weapons to smite those fools. As for the price you named, have any in mind for such a task? Or would you just enjoy a plunder of the ruins treasure?

[Torgarn]

Serokist, Ker'iki'skara spits out a curse in infernal and seeks out Thaliana.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit raises both of his left arms, facing the palms towards Agathe."This one is called Ptik'drit, and he..." he stumbles over his speech for a moment, clicking thoughtfully to himself while searching for the words. Greetings were not his area of expertise. "... and he is pleased that the Wauer-Agathe possesses all of her fingers."

He lowers his hands again, the bottom one of which he mentally restrains from creeping up under his sweater to address a particularly vicious itch. He glances around the village before speaking again. Milo will likely recognize a tone of quiet respect gilding his clicks. "This tribe seems to fear the ruins. They say that the Wauer-Agathe is brave and strong, and that she knows the dark of its passages well. This one would be honored to leap alongside her."

He bows. His address thus complete, he begins scratching with a vengeance, and breathes an audible sigh of relief.

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe grabs the sides of her cloak and curtsies reflexively. The well-mannered woods-woman walks along the booths and stalls of the goblin camp, depositing a handful of coins on one table for a bundle of torches and oil flask {4 torches, 1 flask; 1s 4c}.

"Charmed. I'm sure then you don't mind traveling with the deceased?"

The undead hunter looks very plainly from Milo to Ptik'drit to Thaliana to the unnamed catman. She wasn't certain how well the assorted humanoids could see in the gloom. And she so disliked surprises.

"I'll take the job for a fair cut. I have a couple rules of thumb. The buddy system, caster support. If this entourage doesn't employ a mage, I'll settle for a priest. Oh, and no necromancers. Not negotiable."

Agathe cusps the butt of her musket, slings it under-the-shoulder and to her chest.

"I've come prepared. If there's one thing to know about demons, it's that there's a whole lot of 'em. If Miss Thaliana has a goal to serve by pissing on the hellions, I pray we accomplish it before they start leaking out the walls."

[Gice]

"Hey, at least you're not human.." Milo says, ".. anymore?" he adds, without actually expecting a response but a bit eager to learn the answer nevertheless.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit follows shortly behind the rest of the group, falling behind every now and again as some shiny bauble or another catches his eye. Snapping back to attention, he will bound ahead, catching up with the others. He arrives in just such a fashion at the very moment Agathe mentions her undeath.

He glances curiously at Milo, whom he is just a few steps behind; perhaps the halfling had caught on to this strange trait of the hunter's... Milo had been surprisingly civil, considering his distaste for the tall-folk. Ptik'drit seemed to remember something Milo said when they had first met - something along the lines of 'the only good human is a dead human'. Suddenly it all makes sense! This was a good human!

The others will, at this point, hear Ptik'drit, amused, chortling happily to himself.

When Agathe mentions mages, Ptik will stop dead in his tracks, and exclaim, "The Drone!" Running to get slightly ahead of the party, he continues excitedly "The painted one will want to meet the Wauer-Agathe, yes..."

Thinking quickly, he unleashes a barrage of hisses and clicks as he stands as tall as he can - even stretching his antennae towards the sky - and peers around for Ker'iki'skara.

Not seeing him, he turns to the others and says, "This one will return!" The idea of a hunt - even a peaceful one - has brought back the feeling of bliss he enjoyed during the ritual and feast. He bounds off excitedly to look for Ker'iki'skara, clicking a hunting song from his tribe to himself.

He will get to the highest point he can reach, and peer around the city. It should not be too difficult to find his quarry, given his height and skin tone in contrast with those of the locals.

[Airanath]

Thaliana gives laughs, showing a small amusement.
Haha you'll have to find a way to deal with both, and with them being best buddies too. She pulls the holy symbol so the hunter knows where Thaliana stands.

[BlueWizard]

Ptik'drit will find Ker'iki'skara out near the empty gazebo.

Eventually, Agathe will meet the tiefling, and she can arrange to take them to the 'hidden' location she was shown.

At the moment it is about 4am, by the time Ker'iki'skara returns.

It won't take long to get to this hidden location. But, you can also go in the later morning. Those of you who need rest will need it now, real fatigue won't kick in until afternoon.

Agathe will not know the holy symbol that Thaliana holds up.

[Torgarn]

After Ptik'drit leads Ker'iki'skara to Agathe he nod his head at her, Good to meet you. I hear you know the way to a hidden location. Unfortunately, I am quite weary and need to study my spells, if it could wait until morning I would appreciate it.

[tuesdayscoming]

As his companions sleep, Ptik'drit will hunt the gift deer and watch the sunrise as posted above. After, Ptik will attempt to capture some smaller game to present to the party. Recalling being rebuked in the past for having served his companions raw meat, he will even prepare a fire and 'spoil' perfectly good meat by cooking it for them.

When his companions wake, they will find meals waiting by them, wrapped carefully in leaves.

[BlueWizard]

After Ptik'drit's deer-meat breakfast all of you can set out into the woods following Agathe's lead. Ptik'drit actually prepares the meat with leaves that flavor the meat well.

Coincidentally, the way is in the direction of the gazebo, and you will pass it on your way to these ruins.

As you near, things will seem strange. Agathe won't be able to find her hidden friend, if she wanted to, but most importantly as Agathe nears the ruined temple grounds, there will be a loud clutter ahead in the woods. Thrashing and crashing through the underbrush as dozens of panicked goblins, and some hobgoblins mixed in come racing at you. Lumbering after the group with his cane is the old goblin that Ker'iki'skara sought, and the 'mercenaries' met.

"Fools these goblins are! Warned them I did! Now the Queen wants revenge!!" The old wizard does notice the tiefling. "Hmm. Honor your allies vows you should. Defend my fellow goblins right to live. Yes. Pact of Diamondell is at stake. I must save these foolish ones from their fate. Go. I must. Pleased to meet you dark-one, and milady." He gives a customary head nod to the priestess to acknowledge her societal rank, but will address her little more. Nothing need be said.

Beyond the on-rush of dozens of goblin-kin are horsemen, or knights with blue tunics with the platinum dragon of Bahamut. Agathe remembers these 'holy' policemen from before. Lois's friends, and this time there were a lot more. At least 20 knights were trotting through the woods, rather quickly as they cut down goblins in their path.

They are not far, and move toward you fast. {Closest riders are 150 feet}


{OOC- If you are all ready, I am about to introduce you to combat with Blue-Wizard, on the boards with no maps. Use your imagination, and I will try to work with you. We still make die rolls, and all that, but post what you at least want to attempt to do. If/thens are good too, if you have a couple ideas. DO NOT wait for others, I will try to move the battle one round per day. DM actions will happen for those who don't post.}

{You will all have the jump on these overconfident riders, should you choose to aid the goblins against them. I will allow a round of prep before they notice your powerful entourage. However, as they come the knights will gleefully slay goblins and trample them with their horses most brutally.}

Initiatives:
Knights of Bahamut
Thaliana 19-1
Agathe 11+4
Ker'iki'skara 9+5
Garreth 4+8
Milo 3+8
Ptik'drit 1+4 {Apparently he spotted a deer or something in the woods...}

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe raises her hand to shoulder-height in a 'halt' sign.

"I've seen smaller patrols of these knights around. If we slaughter this one, they'll just come back in greater numbers. This is the goblins' fight, not ours."

"Plus, if even one of them survives, we'll be stuck between a demon cabal and their garrison by the next morning."

Agathe is altogether detached from the slaughter. She does not so much as twinge at the goblins' shrieks, instead craning her neck in the direction she was leading the party already. As the riders approach, if her company does not retreat, she scampers behind a tree and loads her boomstick. {After 5 p.m. I'll be on the road. I'll post again late Sunday. In the meantime, Agathe will ready an attack against the first knight to drop a [non-goblinoid] party member. Otherwise, she'll Hide in Plain Sight.}

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit snaps back to attention when he hears Agathe. He notices the beat of hooves shortly thereafter.

His antennae begin twitching rapidly in unison. He is not one to back down from a fight... but the hunter woman had a point.

He hisses briefly before nodding to Agathe. He crouches low to the ground, his legs splayed out at an impossible angle, before driving himself straight up into the branches overhead. Here he hides behind the body of the tree, and prepares to strike, if necessary.

[Gice]

Milo's first response will be to grab an arrow and his bow and aim it in the direction of the horsemen.

When he hears Agathe's argument he realizes that she's probably right and he follows her sign to halt. Besides, he was sent here to explore the ruins, not to help the goblins.. On the other hand, the old goblin did provide some very useful advice earlier, so Milo might want to keep him around a little longer..

He strafes to a nearby tree or bush and hides behind it, waiting for a clear cue by her fellow party-members to attack.
Hide: [roll0]

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara shouts after the old goblin, I'll save your people, but it will cost you., after this pronouncement he begins muttering to himself.

Ker'iki'skara casts Grease trying to catch as many of the knights as he can in it, while allowing the goblins room to run. He then takes a move action to take cover behind a tree or boulder.

[Airanath]

Thaliana spits on the ground. I hate those scum, but indeed not fighting is probably for the best this time... Under her breath, she curses one more time, before turning to Ker.
The goblin's will live, they did before, they will again, and tonight another feast and sacrifice will be held. We better head for the ruins, get the item your father wants, that might have the power to make those bastards suffer more than we can right now. Let's not be dumb or heroes and meddle while its actually worse for us, that is the thing paladins do.

[Torgarn]

There is always time to kill the forces of good. Besides, I want that goblins spells. Ker'iki'skara's eyes burn with a lust that makes him look mad.

[Airanath]

You are right, there IS always time to kill the forces of good. But ask yourself if this is the RIGHT time. I want to take them down as much as you, but doing so will jeopardize our real objectives. I am not saying to avoid them forever, I am saying we should get what we came for, and then we shall have time to come back, crush every single one of them. You are smart Ker... you know what is a lost fight, we don't want to get ourselves into one, if we clash with them now, they'll hunt us, and pin us in the demon infested lands, with no hope of reset. If we withrdraw, we can come better prepared once we handed the item to the church, do you think the temple will let this pass? An attempt to wipe out a whole settlement of followers of the nine?
Her face is utterly displeased too, showing how much she hates the idea of fleeing too, and the thirst for the platinum dragon followers blood, she grabs Ker'iki'skara's hands, and meets his eyes.
Please Ker, let's go while we still can, we shall come and make this skum pay soon enough. And then you can trade spells with the goblin, feast on their blood, drink it like wine from their skulls if you wish, but now, right now, is not the time. We can fight and kill them, but that is one less spell to fight the demons with, who do you think will be worst to face, the platinum drake followers, who we can pretend to surrender and escape from, or the demons, who will offer us no such mercy?
She looks him in the eyes, deep down in that thrilling darkness, pleading for him to consider the wisdom of avoiding this fight untill their mission is complete, and then, come back for blood.

[Torgarn]

Krimt relsti mekir perlim hekistor kerimil orpehil. Tekasj foekre gretik persil. Ker'iki'skara spits out in Infernal.

I have no intention to allow this. My father did not raise a coward, I can slay these maggots with a single spell. I would suggest standing back though, this spell will destroy any who are not devils.

Ker'iki'skara plans to cast Dance of Ruin from the BoVD, 2d20 damage to anybody not a devil :smallbiggrin:

[Airanath]

Ker, your arcane might may be unrivalled, but how many of those soldiers can you drop in a day? They aren't all in a single file just waiting for some marble balls on the ground to drop them, you can drop this group approaching us, but how many more spells you have to drop 20 knights, Thaliana says stressing the number.
A coward run from all his fights, an idiot picks fights he knows he can't win, the cunning pick his fights and the moment to do them, to be sure of victory and waste the least of his powers, THAT is what YOUR father taught me in answer to prayers. If we fight the soldiers, in two hours we shall have double that ammount on our backs, and half our resources for this day, I don't want to be pinned in a demon nest with you worn out. I have one spell that won't do anything against demons, but will make sure those knights don't bother us for a while. Let's withrdraw for now, I beg you, I'll do anything, but please, don't waste your precious power on those worthless creatures.
Thaliana prepares to cast Darkness in the knights if Ker agrees to the withrdraw.

[Torgarn]

Fine, I will create a place for us to retreat to. I may hold you to that "do anything" later though. Ker'iki'skara pulls out his silk rope and begins chanting. The rope rises up into the air. We can hide here.

Ker'iki'skara casts Rope Trick.

[Neftren]

Garreth adopts the Child of Shadow Stance, sliding off into the woods to prepare for an ambush if necessary. As he moves, subtle shadows start caressing his form, soon hiding him from plain view in a blurry tangle of shadowy tendrils and bending light. "Kyaaah! Gun-woman! My name is Garreth Blackbriar. Your boomsticks be interesting contraptions. Mayhaps they don't explode on you now eh?" Garreth's voice echoes around, coming from everywhere, anywhere, and nowhere, all at the same time.

[roll0]

[GrassyGnoll]

"I pray they don't," Agathe says to Garreth.

The hunter steps out from the brush, laying a hand on Ker's shoulder. She yanks the conjurer back with frightening strength, though she appears to be unaware of her own might.

"Save your breath," she points to the nearby ruins, "There are plenty of decoys already. Once we're in the temple-proper, the cavalry will have to dismount and follow us into the dark."

{Has Ker cast Grease or Rope Trick? Has Thaliana cast Darkness? Agathe won't retreat without them, so she'll stay to guard their casting. She'll want to save Ker the trouble of burning a spell slot on Rope Trick if possible.}

Agathe takes off in a rowdy run for the dungeon. Mid crouched-sprint, she turns to the shadowy catfolk and nods to the forest's canopy.

"Your friend should know; there's an ape demon in these trees, I hope he's not still hungry. Think you can reach him?"

[BlueWizard]

{OOC- BlueWizard will return to more regular posting.}

Ptik'drit will nimbly leap high into the trees to be in position if need be.

Milo virtual disappears into the brush from the rest of your perspectives. As does Garreth and even Agathe.

As the old goblin wizard tries to hobble after fleeing goblinoids he looks at Ker'iki'skara with wide-eyes. "Nothing have i that need you. Seek you chieftain."

The shiny knights in blue surcoats are spread all over this wood, and are scattered as they chase down and try to kill as many goblins as possible. Ker'iki'skara's GREASE will cause 3 young knights to crash into the trees, killing two of the horses in the fall. This is done in such stealth, and the knights are so spread that at the moment, you could possibly avoid conflict. The 3 knights fell among the goblins they chased, and were dazed, and now being beaten by primitive goblin weapons.

As the rest of you hide {nervously?} in the woods, Ker'iki'skara moves toward two particularly skilled pair of riders, as he is discussing things with Thaliana. They spot a 'gallant' knight and his lady-squire, slaying goblinoid youths. This wicked dance of 'hellish'-ruin draws the attention of any knights nearby.

Agathe, Milo, Ptik'drit, and Garreth will not be seen by any knights.

The knight charges Ker'iki'skara, who wickedly dances, the lady-squire is told to stay back, but it is too late by the time the knight reaches Kerik. His dance ceremony will be complete, dark energy will crackles from him it is borne from Hell itself. The squire and her mount are killed outright by the hellion's energy. The knight screams in pain as he tries to charge Kerik, but a loud gun-shot, and Ptik'drit jumping down from the tree ends this brutal knight's life.

This does draw attention from other knights in the woods, but Ker'iki'skara does have enough time to cast his ROPE TRICK. Though apparently Agathe will be using this diversion to make her way full bore toward her entrance in the ruins.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit relishes the sound of bone splintering beneath his feet. Crouched low over the corpse, he pauses for only half a moment, scanning the battlefield.

If he notices Agathe running for the ruins, he will be torn between following her and assisting Ker'iki'skara. Battle at this time was not ideal (so Thaliana's words had convinced him), and Ptik would hate to split the group away from their newfound guide... but the painted drone had already drawn so much attention... and he was so soft.

Leaping back into the trees, Ptik'drit will assist Ker'iki'skara by thinning out the remaining knights.

In the trees, he is brought to an anticaptory frenzy, lusting after the sound of flesh tearing. (OOC/ Activate Whirling Frenzy)

He will start by bounding down on the outliers - those whose falling, he feels, is least likely to be noticed by those left standing. While so doing, he will try his best to remain unnoticed in the trees, to where he will return just as soon as his target falls.


Rounds in Whirling Frenzy: 1/5
Attack rolls:
Battle Jump (falling on opponent = charge, x2 damage)
Claw 1: [roll0][roll1]
Claw 2: [roll2][roll3]
Claw 3: [roll4][roll5]
Claw 4: [roll6][roll7]
Bite: [roll]1d20+4[/roll[roll]1d4+2
Whirling Frenzy: [roll8][roll9]

And please do recall that all of this damage is doubled. Is there a way to have the roller auto-multiply results?

[GrassyGnoll]

Billows of white, sulfurous smoke betray Agathe's previous hiding spot. She takes off in a dash for the ruins, not particularly eager to wade into an organized cavalry charge.

Agathe dives for cover behind the heavy debris littered amongst the ruins. She unstraps her backpack, setting it behind the makeshift bulwark.

"Of all the boneheaded..." Agathe's muttering trails off as she rips into a new cartridge with her teeth. The deceased survivalist releases a lever above her firearm's hilt; its breach opens and the spent boomball shell falls at her feet. She loads a fresh munition and pours a thimble of powder into the catch.

Agathe clacks her weapon together with both hands, takes a knee and lines up another shot. Her bony finger rests on the trigger as she scans the foliage for a familiar face or the next threat.

{Full round: Run (x4 move speed)
Free action: Drop pack
----
Tentative actions for next/present round: Move action to load boomstick, drop to prone as a free action and a Spot check.
Spot: [roll0]}

[BlueWizard]

OOC- By the way we are out of initiative, since you have got the knights by surprise still.

There is one mighty knight whom Ptik'drit can hunt down and surprise from above. The Thir-kreen will taste the blood of victory in seconds as the stealthy insectoid kills from the trees.

There may be a dozen or so more knights in the woods it is hard to say and scores of goblinoids run amuck.

Agathe can quickly make her way to the former temple's foundation and set up in some brush for another shot to cover any of the new explorers who follow her. She will spot other knights to shoot as they chase down goblinkin running in every direction in horrified panic.

[Gice]

Milo overheard the discussion by his companions earlier on.. "Agathe probably know this place best. Against these numbers, we will have a hard time if we don't cooperate", Milo thinks.. "I'd better get to Agathe fast". He tries to find a way to get to her as fast as he can, avoiding confrontation with the knights.

When he is close enough to Agathe, he turn to the knights and tries to shoot some of them, providing cover for his party members if necessary.

{Full round: move towards Agathe (all the way if possible), Free action, take shortbow.
After that, hide behind cover and/or shoot (sneak attack if possible) knights that either have spotted us and are coming to attack us or are attacking team-mates that try to run towards us.}

[Torgarn]

Kahahahaha Ker'iki'skara cackles lusting for more death. He waves his hand in a arcane gesture changing his form into that of an imp. He then flies up to get a good look at the battlefield.


Standard Action to cast Alter Self, move action to move 50 ft into the air.

[BlueWizard]

Milo can see evidence of the base of stone pillars mostly covered by earth, and possibly stairs hidden. Only with his keen eyes did he spot this. Agathe is easy to spot for him, and he can hide from the knights and attempt to aim and pick one off.

Ker'iki'skara changes form before Thaliana into a little imp. He will be even harder to spot from farther away.

The knights are rallying, and one older priestly or paladin looking fellow is calling them back with a horn. Ptik'drit can see this fellow on the hill looking at the Thir-kreen far away as the insectoid leaps about above the trees. Unseen by all below, except this older fellow about a mile away.

[tuesdayscoming]

Relishing the hunt, Ptik'drit, peering out of the branches, will unleash a great howl - a strange, alien sound that none could possibly mistake for the sound of a man. Caught up in his bloodlust, he is loathe to allow the prey to escape so easily...

If any of the fleeing knights are still within range, he will bound down upon them from ~20ft up in the trees.

Move action: approach and leap down, activating Battle Jump charge
Standard action: One more attack, just for good measure

Jump: [roll0]
Falling Object damage: [roll1]
Claw 1: [roll2][roll3]
Claw 2: [roll4][roll5]
Claw 3: [roll6][roll7]
Claw 4: [roll8][roll9]
Whirling Frenzy: [roll10][roll11]
Bite: [roll12][roll13]
Standard Action Claw: [roll14][roll15]

All damage except for falling and Standard Action doubled. Falling damage that Ptik would normally take is negated by his boots.

[BlueWizard]

Likely the cat-man hunted a couple of knights down, but nothing was as amazing as the spectacularly leaping Thir-kreen. The insectoid covered better ground than the horses in these woods, many were even tripping! Ptik'drit will hunt down many and slay them most quickly, and likely most violently. Even the most hearty of the veteran warriors in this goblin-massacre are no match for the Thir-kreen's flurry of its multi-armed attack!

The knights attempting to answer the elder knight's horn retreat will flee in a panic, causing more horses to tumble and fall. The tide is turned, and the knights are horrified as they realize their overconfidence will cause them to be overwhelmed. Goblinoids of all sorts turn to aid, and the knights who can't get to the hill will be slaughtered. It won't be many who get away. Ptik'drit could likely hunt them down if he wanted, but would leave his allies behind.


{OOC- Combat is basically over, this is a slaughterhouse!}

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara begins flying among the wounded and fleeing, finishing off any of the wounded he finds. He will attempt to sting one of the stragglers, injecting his poison into the creature, hoping to paralyze it.

Attack Roll: [roll0] damage [roll1] poison [roll2] dex damage

[BlueWizard]

Ker'iki'skara will find another teenage knight lady being chased by goblins on foot. She is bloody, and Kerik can execute her before the goblins dramatically, much to the goblin's delight. Her armor has been ripped from her and she is merely in underpadding.

The goblins are fully looting the knights as soon as they fall. It seems to be non-magical gear.

[GrassyGnoll]

Seeing the knights in retreat, Agathe stows her boomstick.

"This spat ain't worth the powder," she remarks to Milo. Taking advantage of the lull in violence, Agathe refastens her buckler and produces the ruin's map from her supplies. She reexamines the scrap of paper for mention of demons or points of interest.

[BlueWizard]

Agathe and Milo notice no goblins come near this temple ground.

It is actually peaceful here with the sounds of fleeing knights and cheering goblin-kin.

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara will pierce her with his stinger, paralyzing her with his poison, then return to his regular form. He will tie her up with his rope, a captive for him to interrogate later.

[BlueWizard]

Kerik will capture the young woman, and take her prisoner away from the goblins which will disappoint them of course. Kerik will notice other fallen knights are being eaten on the battlefield.

Even ones not quite dead...

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara runs his hand over the captured womans cheek stroking it softly, Don't worry my dear, I won't let them eat you. he says, a burning look in his eyes, So long as you cooperate anyway.

[tuesdayscoming]

Ptik'drit is absolutely lost to the hunt. No thought passes through his mind, no feeling but that one driving him towards his prey... so soft...

The taste of their blood in his mouth...

He is driven forward by the beautiful ecstasy of bloodlust, the all-consuming desire to kill and kill again.

Jump: [roll0]
Doubled Damage:
Claw 1: [roll1][roll2]
Claw 2: [roll3][roll4]
Claw 3: [roll5][roll6]
Claw 4: [roll7][roll8]
Bite: [roll9][roll10]
Whirling Frenzy: [roll11][roll12]
Undoubled Damage:
Standard Action Claw: [roll13][roll14]
Falling Object Damage: [roll15]
[roll16]
Doubled Damage:
Claw 1: [roll17][roll18]
Claw 2: [roll19][roll20]
Claw 3: [roll21][roll22]
Claw 4: [roll23][roll24]
Bite: [roll25][roll26]
Whirling Frenzy: [roll27][roll28]
Undoubled Damage:
Standard Action Claw: [roll29][roll30]
Falling Object Damage: [roll31]
[roll32]
Doubled Damage:
Claw 1: [roll33][roll34]
Claw 2: [roll35][roll36]
Claw 3: [roll37][roll38]
Claw 4: [roll39][roll40]
Bite: [roll41][roll42]
Whirling Frenzy: [roll43][roll44]
Undoubled Damage:
Standard Action Claw: [roll45][roll46]
Falling Object Damage: [roll47]
[roll48]
Doubled Damage:
Claw 1: [roll49][roll50]
Claw 2: [roll51][roll52]
Claw 3: [roll53][roll54]
Claw 4: [roll55][roll56]
Bite: [roll57][roll58]
Whirling Frenzy: [roll59][roll60]
Undoubled Damage:
Standard Action Claw: [roll61][roll62]
Falling Object Damage: [roll63]

[BlueWizard]

The young blonde woman looks fearfully into Kerik's eyes and breathlessly nods her head.

You will lose track of the joyfully leaping Ptik'drit, but the shrieks of his victims are heard all through the woods.

Milo and his keen eyes spot another lady knight creeping up on he and Agathe's position. She stands and his shot will hit her square in the chest, and she screams out as she falls back in pain. "Agathe!!! Its me Lois!!! Gahh!!"
Lois will stay low, and hidden in the woods, clearly hurt by Milo's shot. Agathe will have recognized her former follower.

[GrassyGnoll]

"Hold your fire!" Agathe barks. She looks between Milo and Lois; no other interlopers so far.

Agathe looks over her shoulder to the ensuing, retaliatory slaughter.

"Your position's not much improved from when we first found you, eh, Lois?" she hollers at the brush.

"You're better off lying in that ditch. These new associates of mine are a mite too eager to snuff any patrolman they find."

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe's brain whirrs with negative energy and gives spark to a wonderful, terrible idea.

"Hey, Milo," Agathe rasps in a soft whisper, "That's Lady Lois out there. We're here to escort a suicidal noble through a demon tomb and now's our chance to escort one home. Play it smooth, my last company bailed this human out of a goblin ambush. She'll listen to me. At the very least, she's bound to be worth a ransom."

[Gice]

"Really? You expect me to act smooth amongst Humans?" Milo asks, emphasizing the last word.

He takes an arrow from his quiver and puts it on his bow, he aims his bow at the Human in the woods. "How much ransom?" he asks, waiting to hear if it is enough to hold back.

[BlueWizard]

Near the Temple Grounds:
Judging by the distant celebrations of many goblinoids, it seems victory is at hand. Milo is making Lois feel uncomfortable.

Somewhere near the Hill:
Ptik'drit will find the old knight curiously watches him as the Thir-kreen hunts down his soldiers. The old knight will aim his heavy crossbow calmly at the Thir-kreen as he nears...

Hellions:
Thaliana and Ker'iki'skara are heroes and the goblin-kin will want to party with them. They seem unfazed by their own losses.

[Torgarn]

Is there anywhere I could have some privacy with my prisoner? Ker'iki'skara asks the nearest goblin.

[tuesdayscoming]

(/OOC Whirling Frenzy is definitely over)

His frenzy having completed, Ptik'drit feels physically drained, but nonetheless very much alive. The taste of blood had a way of doing that...

Noticing the demeanor of the man, the crossbow he totes, and his own exhaustion, Ptik'drit will for the first time note just how far off from his companions he has wandered.

Rather than engage the man directly and immediately, he will take a moment to catch his breath, and to assess the situation.

He flits from tree to tree, higher and higher, always attempting to keep a tree trunk between himself and the old man. When he is approximately 40 feet up and within earshot of the old man, he pokes his head out from behind the tree in which he is perched, and unleashes a loud barrage of three rapid clicks, attempting to draw the man's attention.

"Horn Blower," he calls down, "why do you hunt the goblin tribe? They are small and weak, there is no sport in it. And this one is told that the tribe does not strike but when the tribe-blood has been spilled. Do you kill purely for pleasure, Horn Blower?"

[BlueWizard]

Ker'iki'skara can get all the privacy he wants, the goblins will even erect a tent if needed.


Ptik'drit in the distance:
About 200 feet away the knight fires his heavy crossbow. The shot is mighty, and hurts Ptik'drit's shoulder. {d:13} The old knight does not answer and merely reloads his crossbow with a serious tone.

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara has the goblins put up a tent for him. He takes his captive inside. He waits for the poison to wear off, then asks her So whats your name sweetie?

[tuesdayscoming]

(/OOC Current Hp = 14)

Ptik'drit hisses in pain as his shoulder is rocked by the devastating blow. Furious, he ducks behind the tree and takes a moment to calm himself and to assesses the situation.

The Horn Blower is an excellent shot, no doubt. And he has the advantage of range. Ptik himself would be open to fire if he attempted to close, and exhausted as he was, would be at a disadvantage even if he somehow made it there. This new made it all too clear that Ptik would not win this fight...

He peers out from behind the tree for one last look at the Horn Blower. He will remember this one...

He bounds off, back to the goblin encampment, moving as fast as he can while ensuring that he keeps cover between himself and the Horn Blower.

If he makes it back to camp, he lands near Thaliana and pulls the bolt out of his shoulder with a roar of pained hisses and clicks.

[GrassyGnoll]

"Yes, I do."

Agathe grips the halfling's bow and hoists him off the ground with it {Disarm attempt: [roll0], Milo takes a -4 for ranged weapon disarm check}.

"If my participation in the erstwhile slaughter is to make any indication, I don't relish murdering humans."

"Now Lois is a local of sorts. As a tracker, the first rule to staying alive is staying friendly with the locals. Humans, gobbos, don't matter who they are, killing 'em hurts my business. Besides, I've been stranded out here with only that human at my side. Wilderness rule number two is the buddy system, and I'd loathe to cross an old partner. Otherwise it's every man for himself. A lot of dead companies think that way."

"Hobble your way home, Lois," Agathe booms, "You're not welcome here!"

[Airanath]

I'll go find the others, Thaliana hisses in infernal to Ker'iki'skara.
She heads to where the others were, looking for any of them, or some enemy to vent her frustration on at the waste of time and resources.

[BlueWizard]

Kerik and His Captive:
The young woman stripped to the bloody underpadding is frightened when she sees the tiefling for the first time alone in the tent. It will take some convincing, but Ker'iki'skara has got what it takes. "Lady Kenna..." She says scared and breathless. "I serve the good Northern Queen, and Bahamut himself. I will not be swayed by the dark forces..." She proceeds to talk on, and will begin a holy, but non-magical prayer to protect herself.


Ptik and the Old Hornblower:
Ptik'drit got a decent look at the soldier, who winches his heavy crossbow and aims it carefully again. Hornblower stays put on the hill waiting for the 4 riders who made it out. He will wait a few minutes after the riders crest the hill, drop 16 coins, and then sadly turns and rides after the the fleeing soldiers.

Goblins were everywhere, but Ptik'drit knew where Thaliana was, and he will find her as she reaches the others near the temple grounds. Which they will see for Milo and Agathe are here. Milo has his bow trained on a lady-knight, and it appears that Agathe is trying to intervene and save the lady-knight. {She is wearing a brand new blue surcoat, with the silver dragon.}


Milo and Agathe Near the Temple Grounds:
Agathe trips over a branch, but manages to catch herself, as she tries to take Milo's bow. She did look clumsy. Milo is deft himself, and can still easily take a shot on this human young woman if he wants, with no penalties. Lois stands frozen afraid that the hobbit might shoot.

If allowed Lois will flee, especially when priestess Thaliana and the Thir-kreen all converge on this place. Lois will flee in fright, and unless Agathe speaks quickly, Lois may even appear to be a ripe target regardless...

Garreth will also meet back here after stalking two other knights and slaying them. He likely just feasted on tasty soft parts, and has red lips.{DM action}

OOC- Kerik will likely meet here soon. I will roleplay the conversation with his prisoner on the side if needed, and he can join the group if you all want to continue down into the former temple's lower regions.

A party order would be good now. Agathe remembers what happened at this point last time...

[GrassyGnoll]

{Agathe's made her argument. Lois is:
a. A member of the buddy system
b. A person of influence (I mean, who doesn't employ assassins but nobles)
c. Worth a ransom
d. All of the above

It's up to Milo at this point.}

[Gice]

"You have a lot to explain to the priest" Milo says as he lowers his weapon.

{/OOC I don't use my attack of opportunity or attempt to disarm Agathe as a countermove}

"Besides, I like the idea of this human trying to dodge three more attacks." He says with a smirk on his face as he sees the others closing in.

Milo laughs as she flees trough the woods.
When she's almost out of sight he turns around and points at the stairs, "We're going down there I suppose?"

[Torgarn]

Well my dear lady Kenna, why would you want to come here, slaying these goblins. As far as I can tell, they have done nothing to provoke such an action. he laughs, though his laugh lacks mirth. Now why do you specifically serve Bahumut, do you hate goblins?

[BlueWizard]

Temple Grounds:
Lois sprints, but in her plate mail she is slow, and will trip a few times in the underbrush. When she is out of sight, those of you with good hearing will hear many goblins give chase.

As the group gathers, even with out Ker'iki'skara Agathe can show the way down... which is mysteriously covered by mud and brush. Agathe will see a bit of splatter from where Derrick's brain got eaten, not far from the stone column ruined and buried near this dais, or steps into a temple. You will all see this now with Milo and Agathe here to show you the way. The rest of the layout of the temple would have been before you in the woods. Ptik'drit will notice a complete lack of wild animals around these temple grounds.

The blockage into the earth is untrapped {Milo will see with no trouble}. Removing the branches will reveal to all of you a stairway down. By now Ker'iki'skara would likely have caught up.

Ker'iki'skara's Interview:
The woman will try to ignore Kerik, but he is too fearful to her. She shakes as she speaks to him, her bravery wavering. "I... I follow... the knights of... Bbahumut... The goblins... broke the treaty.... Bahamut the mighty dragon... loves all..." Tears for fear will fill her eyes as she looks face to face with the son of devil.

[Torgarn]

Come now my dear, surely if the Great Dragon loved you he wouldn't have let me catch you. Anyway, surely you would be willing to tell me how they broke the treaty.

[BlueWizard]

The lady-knight, Kenna, bows her head, "No... I have failed HIM. You are right. You are right. Pride and overconfidence. We should have merely driven them BACK into the earth. Slay me now devil and send me to my Dragonking."

[Torgarn]

That would be to easy, Ker'iki'skara grins madly, I am going to corrupt and twist you away from your lord, in the end you will be a slovenly animal, begging me to take your soul.

[BlueWizard]

The girl does flash some defiance in her eyes. She will stay silent.

[Torgarn]

Waving his hand in a arcane gesture, Ker'iki'skara asks Now would you mind telling me more about yourself, I want to get to know you. he says smiling creepily.

OOC: Casting Charm on her

[BlueWizard]

"I am a knight of the Northern Realm."

[Torgarn]

Ah, but you see, I wish to know more about you personally, so we can be friends.

[tuesdayscoming]

Just after landing, Ptik'drit is breathing heavily, furious at both the Horn Blower, and at his own weakness. His upper left arm clutches his right shoulder, whose arm hangs limply at his side. Both lower hands are balled into tight fists, which the careful observer might see to be shaking slightly.

He glances suspiciously at Milo as the woman goes running off into the woods. If Milo would allow this, Ptik'drit would not interfere.

After she has gone, he speaks.

"This one," he huffs, "will find the Horn Blower again some day..."

Turning to Thaliana, he says, "This one fears that, already shamed, he is now in need of further aid." He removes his hand from the wound in his shoulder, a terrible sight that has ruined his arm. "Might the lady be able to aid this one?"

[GrassyGnoll]

{Likely as in within the hour likely? Agathe's not too keen on idling about in demon hunting grounds.}

"Hmm? Yes, that burrow," Agathe answers Milo. She picks herself up and, were it not for her intractable lidless stare, she would appear relieved. {+1 buddy system!}

"Where is that fool noble?" Agathe gestures to the pavilion in the distance, "This ain't no leisurely camping trip. Beneath these ruins there be demons!"

Agathe turns back to the subterranean entrance. She takes the first couple steps down the stone stairway and draws a torch from her pack.

"Anyone need a light? Watch your step" The stairs at her feet are muddy and overgrown with roots. As soon as the company is assembled, Agathe leads the procession downstairs. Torch in her left hand, sword drawn in her right. As they walk, Agathe will spout observations:

"Plenty of aberrations call this place home. Or used to. The first waves of prospectors wiped most of 'em out. I've seen a pack of dretches this way. If we follow the shredded remains of my old crew, we may just find their lair. There's another drop deeper into these caverns guarded by a lesser nightshade, but my old company didn't make it any further."

Agathe points to the leftmost path through the dungeon to indicate where she encountered the Abyssal spawn. She turns to Thaliana and supposes, "That all depends on whether the relic we're seeking has fallen into their hands or not. Does us no good to stir up another nest of hornets."

{Track to follow the gory trail led by the late Lady Carin [roll0]}

[Airanath]

((Likely our group is split =X, our caster is in town, busy torturing and interrogating))
Thaliana looks into Ptik's wounds concernet about their severity, and decides to use one of the scrolls to heal the bug-man(5 remain now).
We need to avoid this kind of troubles, if at all possible. Asmodeus doesn't freely offer healing for the needful, he is more likely to sap their life by infusing them with darkness, unless all raise like undead as the huntress, or get corrupted by his dark will like me, I can't ask him to help us much.
Her expression shows extreme insatisfaction at the situation.
And we are also missing our Arcanist right now, I might cut his balls someday if his hot head jeopardizes this mission, she says in a not really sincere tone.

[roll0]

[GrassyGnoll]

"I'll hold him down," Agathe offers obliviously.

Asmodeus Agathe wracks her semi-exposed skull for reference. She knew they were on the dole of some church, but plundering demon relics didn't fit her notion of 'pious & charitable acts'. {Knowledge(religion): [roll0]}

The undead ranger stalls at the threshold.

{10 minutes later...}

"Pelor's patience! I'll fetch the lordling."

[Gice]

"I wonder how much Asmodeus appreciates the fact that you team up with people that show mercy and help these knights escape."
Milo says to Thaliana as he turns his head towards Agathe.

[BlueWizard]

Temple Grounds:
All of these events happened rather quickly, and it may have been about a half an hour since you wandered from the hobgoblin chief's tent or the region nearby. Agathe has heard of Asmodeus, Highlord of Hell. His 'cult' is rising in power, under the guise of the Temple of Power and the aligned Churches of Hell. This is fairly common knowledge for someone from around these parts, as she is remembering she is. Some of the distant Northern mountains seem familiar.

There is a stairway down, and light will be needed. Agathe leading with the torch will reveal a dark chamber beneath.

{OOC- I am ready to go down. As I said, whatever the conversation below is, happened in the past. Kerik is likely with you, though it will take some time for him to catch up, unless he wants to turn around and not join you. There is no need at all to wait for him in the past/split scene.}

Kerik's Prisoner:
The girl spits in the tiefling's face. "Never!"

[Neftren]

"Kyaah! I not become darky zombiefolk! Creepy!" Garreth mumbles balefully. He shivers. "Dark... I don't like dark. You better keep those torches lit."

[Airanath]

Escape? We are wiping every single one of them now Milo, given time. As for mercy, there is no such a thing as mercy, I tought you would be better than giving that to some dragon-kisser? Or let someone do so. she whispers softly to the hobbit, poison in quite a few of her words, hate in every one of them.

[GrassyGnoll]

Arcanist or no. Agathe was accepting no delays.

"If His Highness can be arsed to step in the dungeon he's hired us to plunder, that would be much appreciated," Agathe says to Thaliana, the tiefling's caretaker for all she could tell.

The stolid undead holds the lit torch at the head of the procession. She leads those assembled past the staircase and down the leftmost path. The tracker walks to where she found Carin's deathstrider feasted upon by the dretches {Here's another Track check once eight minutes are up. Following the remains of Uce & the ghoul: [roll0]}

[Gice]

{I will try to occupy one of the last spots (last spot will be fine for me) in the party order along Thaliana so I can talk to her about what happened}
"Me? You'd think I'd let a Human go voluntarily? It was miss Bones over there! She even tried to take my bow from me!" Milo explains to Thaliana.

"First she started talking about that the human was someone important and stuff, later she said the human was worth a ransom. When I didn't shoot she told the human to leave in stead of demanding a ransom."
Milo thinks about the situation for a moment..
"I did hear some goblins chase her though, so I guess she probably didn't make it.

Anyway, I don't trust her. She'll probably lead us into a trap of some sort" Milo ignites a sunrod, attaches it to his belt and follows the party down in the dungeon

[Torgarn]

I think you need a little bit of time to contemplate your existence and the situation you are in. Ker'iki'skara says, gagging her. I'm going to take a little rest, I hope you will be more receptive later. Ker'iki'skara has several goblins placed as guards over his captive, with strict orders not to harm her, then settles down to rest, so that he can regain his spent spells.

[Airanath]

"Why dear Milo, and your ransom we shall get, is said lady is as valuable as you say, or even, sell her in some place, if she is worthless, but our friend there might pay the ransom herself. I trust you can identify said "lady" if you meet her again?" Thaliana whispers to Milo, with a conspiratory tone.
"If this lady wasn't with the attackers she will live untill tomorrow, when we can take her from the goblins. I don't trust her either, but not because of leading us in a trap, she is seeking something of her own, and its not revenge. Revenge would give us her loyalty untill she fulfilled it."

[BlueWizard]

{OOC- DM loves the roleplay, and rewards it. First thread XP will be PM'd to you.}

Into the Temple:
Apparently, Kerik got lost on the way. The goblins said he was napping.

Mud and roots have crept down into this stairway that leads about 15 feet below. Agathe has no trouble making her way down the slippery steps, and can easily find her way about. It is a simple path she's gone so far.

There is a chamber below, mud covering the floor. In the light of Agathe's torch you will see a cracked ceiling, once painted the stars and heavens, with certain astrological figures. The mural is mostly faded, and broken with earth and root growing through it.

There are three visible stone doors from this 30x30 room. One to the left, one to the right, and one straight ahead which is broken in, there is a dark hallway beyond the broken door; straight from the base of the muddy stairway.

The doors left and right are rotten wood, metal frame, and appear to not have been opened. Agathe is directing you to the center, and broken open doorway. Through this door it smells of rotten death. Real nasty.

Kerik's Interview:
This young knight will be completely uncooperative, and will proceed to fight back, struggling at any bonds or beating.

When Kerik goes to rest he will still hear the goblins having trouble with her. By now the rest of his friends are in the dungeon quite a ways.

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe hands the torch off to someone with less use for both their hands {Thaliana, or anyone who needs the light, really}. She hoists the double-barreled rifle off her shoulder and levels it before her.

"My last company took door number two," she points to the opened door with the muzzle of her gun, "But you can smell how that turned out."

Agathe is unfazed by the putrescent stench, but appears none too eager to follow the same path.

"Just, uh, what is it we're looking for? There's demons in there, no doubt. But we ain't lookin' for demons. We're looking for what those demons got."

The undead produces a flap of paper from her pocket {Candace's map} and looks over its scrawled notes for any helpful mention.

{Does Darkvision 60' extend to only 60 feet or is it shadowy illumination + an additional 60'?}

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara wakens, gathering some small materials together, he returns to his captive. Ungagging her he asks Have you had a good rest my dear? while he is talking he pulls a hunk of metal from his pocket. He waves his hand over it chanting an arcane spell. Green fumes begin rising from the metal, Ker'iki'skara begins chanting once again, then places his hand on the woman's cheek.

Casting extract drug to get Baccaran, then casts Addiction, with the young woman as a target. She is now addicted to Baccaran, a mild hallucinogenic. Hoorah.

[BlueWizard]

Within the Temple:
As Agathe is pondering the map a loud hissing comes from the hall beyond the broken down door. Agathe can see movement in the darkness, as vague shadows. She can see something is moving fast from the large circular room beyond the hall straight ahead. This thing was reptilian or insectoid, it was definitely mean looking.


Initiatives:
Ptik'drit 17+4
The Enemy Comes
Milo 6+8
Agathe 9+4
Garreth 2+8
Thaliana 1-1


Kerik and the Goblins Above:
Kerik will not get the chance to rest and recover his spell, he will sense danger and distant goblinoid shrieks will awaken him, less than two hours into his nap.
By now he will have quite a few goblinoid sycophants wanting a piece of his power.

[GrassyGnoll]

"Incoming!" Agathe hollers.

The hunter aims her musket down the hallway. She shuffles closer {5' step per round}. Agathe's powder-blackened teeth grit together.

"Hand me that rod," she implores Milo. {Assuming cooperation} she rolls the lighted stick down the corridor, illuminating the hallway past which the reptile-insect beast prowls.

{Otherwise ready action to take a Careful Strike at the beast. That is, if it turns around and charges within 30' of the party. I assume throwing the rod is at least a move action, so if the beast charges through the light, she'll just have to initiate Foehammer on her shot.}

Edit: Actually, who's holding the torch? If Agathe's still burdened by the thing, she'll just toss that.

[Torgarn]

Krizt Kerik swears If those knights are back I will tear their entrails from their bodies. Kerik will gather together a group of goblins and will retrieve his prisoner, if the knights are back, having a hostage will be useful.

[Neftren]

"Gyah. Ambush." Garreth spits into his palm, and then rubs his hands together. "Alright then! Who's up for a demonflesh kebab?" He draws his blade, moving towards the darkened corner of the room. As he moves, black tendrils twist from seemingly nowhere, rising up and around him, concealing him from view. "What am I supposed to be attacking first? I'm no expert on creepies from the other side..."

[Airanath]

((Thaliana has no need for lights as a matter of fact, she can see in darkness as well as in daylight and is quite pleased in remaining in the darkness =p Wait... is there ANYONE in the group who needs light? I vote we kill the weakling so Agathe gets some food! (j/k)))
Thaliana takes the torch, but is displeased with it.
"Light... do we really need it? It draws too much attention."
"So long as they aren't undead, and really outsiders, you can cut their heads and will see blood for your work." She holds back the part where said blood COULD and MIGHT be powerfull acid, molten rock, or even freezing liquid, she doesn't want to rout her meat buffer. Even if the bug-man seems a pleasnt company, she still doesn't fully trusts any of those, if they want to make intrigues among themselves, she shall have them tangle their webs and be useful for her, while too busy to notice she is dangerous.
She tries to take a glympse of their foes, to see what it is, and if she knows any strategems to face them efficiently to minimal resource waste, Ker being useless is enough already to piss her.
Spot(if asked): [roll0]
Knowledge(Religion) if undead: [roll1]
Knowledge(Planes) if outsider: [roll2]

Since prompted by Agathe, Thaliana also tries to recall all the info she has on the airtifact she seeks, to see what is safer to reveal. She also tries to remember any further info she may have heard or read about it, she did scrounge most of the tomes in the church, even the darker and most mind wrecking, with horrible fungi that can ruin your lungs if inhaled.
Knowledge(Religion): [roll3]
Lore: [roll4]

[tuesdayscoming]

The entire way down into the dungeon, Ptik had been scratching... He had been doing it ever since their arrival here in Diamondell, but this was different. Hardly had he spoken a word, hardly had he observed his surroundings, such was his apparent determination, his all-consuming focus on the terrible itching radiating from his torso. Like seeds sprouting in his skin... pins pushing up from under his carapace... slow fire eating away at his flesh and his mind both...

Milo and Neftren will almost undoubtedly notice that something is off. Ptik'drit is far from his normal self. Always easily distracted, his focus is here complete – so much so that, even when the others stop after noticing the approaching beast, Ptik continues on forward, trudging slowly, all four claws mercilessly tearing at his own chest and back. He does not hear his companions as they plan for the attack, nor does he notice the shadowy beast bearing down on him from the depths of the unknown darkness...

It is almost upon him when Ptik unleashes a loud howl of hisses and pained clicks, his claws tearing great gashes into the sweater he wears – and finally, as it is only inches from him, he sees the beast. And in that moment, the hot, wet breath of some otherworldly beast in his face, Ptik'drit, caught unawares, feels the pull of some strange, new instinct.

In the blink of an eye, Ptik is gone. The others will see him simply... disappear for a single instant before reforming some fifteen feet above the charging beast.

As he begins to fall, Ptik, who only a moment before had thought he might have met his end in some dank pit, has no idea what has happened to him. It is only his familiarity with the feeling of momentary weightlessness that one feels whilst in the air that forces him to twist around, to a position where he is staring back down at the beast.

Suddenly the itching is gone. The mystery of what has just happened to him will have to wait.

For now, he thinks as he comes crashing down on the beast, as so many times before, it is time to hunt.

OOC explanation of in character action
Move Action: Absentmindedly continue walking towards the charging beast.
Readied Standard Action: Use Blink Shirt Soulmeld with 1 Essentia invested to teleport 20 feet above the charging beast, then come crashing down in an unholy hail of bites and claws.

Damage Doubled
Claw: [roll0][roll1]
Claw: [roll2][roll3]
Claw: [roll4][roll5]
Claw: [roll6][roll7]
Bite: [roll8][roll9]

Not Doubled:
Falling Object Damage: [roll10]

[Gice]

Milo has heard stories of terrible beasts than can be found in dungeons, but isn't really sure what to expect. All he knows is how he normally would attack anything. He moves a spot adjacent to the beast and when he feels that he is an advantageous position against it, he quickly draws a shortsword and strikes the beast with it.


move action: move to position adjacent to beast so somebody else can help flanking, possible with Ptik. Free action: use quickdraw to draw a shortsword. If I'm not close enough to hit it, I use standard action to move again to a position to the side of the beast (so not yet flanking, but allowing other to flank) which ends my turn, otherwise:

[if I flank with Ptik immediately:]
sneak attack the beast.
[else]
Ready a single attack (with sneak attack) on the condition: if anyone moves into flanking position (that includes walking trough a spot that allows flanking) I attack.


Attack roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]+[roll2]

[BlueWizard]

Lower Foyer of Temple:
Whatever it is, it is clearly an aberration.

Ptik'drit will know of the Kython by name. His people battle the alien creatures in their past. Thaliana knows of these creatures, but only that they are mean, vicious, and somewhat intelligent, at least as much smarts as any human. {OOC-It is their knowledge Arcana that aids them this day. Though not much.}

This beast has a tooth filled maw, and runs with it open upon two-legs! It has FOUR clawed arms, the exo-skeleton is a dull blue color.

Thaliana knows many great relics were lost in the ruins of this famed city of the Ancient Outer Empires.

As Ptik'drit flurries his attack into this legendary aberration, he will know why the legends of his people cursed the kythons. Only one claw manages to hurt the monster! The hall into which he fell was not high enough for the falling damage, but he is now face to face with this alien's maw! This was no prey, and indeed, with no eyes!

The kython pounces on this well-known mortal enemy as the Thir-kreen presents itself on top of it. It takes a nasty bite out of Ptik'drit, and claws him once, but the mighty Thir-kreen manages to fend off the other claw attacks.

With Ptik'drit and the monster fighting in the lit hall ahead, small Milo will be able to 'flank' a position against this monster and poke it most painfully! It roars and snaps out as it takes in and senses its 2nd opponent.

Agathe can throw the light into the room, and can brighten it up quite a bit. This strange beast was mean-looking, though less bizarre and alien than the monster she fought here before. She can hold her shot, since she is now firing into melee, in tight quarters. {Or not...}

Garreth prepares himself for battle... shifting into the shadows of the foyer. Agathe can still see where he is. :mitd:

Agathe believes her group could handle this kython by itself, though 'physical' means would be necessary.
Ptik'drit know it is immune to cold and acid.
Thaliana knows even other energies are likely useless too! Basically, she is holding. Though her brain is working quickly.

End Round 1------------------------------->

Initiatives:
Thaliana
Ptik'drit 17+4 hp:16/35
Full Grown Kython
Milo 6+8
Agathe 9+4
Garreth 2+8

Thaliana is well knowledged in the religion that once ruled. LUST and LUXURIOUS. Two greater demons, and the sign of the incubus and succubi are marked everywhere subtly, especially in the symbols of the broken astrology scene above.



Kerik with the Goblins:
As Ker'iki'skara gathers his goblin followers he will notice that scores of green-blue clad elves are flying in the air. He can tell many are low in power, as they send one magic missile down. Though they seem armed with a few scrolls, which has them dropping poisonous green gas down into the trees. They are headed right toward Kerik, the prisoner, and his goblin followers.

[Gice]

Happy to see that his good old tricks still work against these strange beasts, Milo will continue to apply it. He draws a second shortsword with his left hand and attacks with both swords.

Main hand: [roll0] Damage: [roll1]+[roll2]
Off hand: [roll3] Damage: [roll4]+[roll5]

If necessary to remain flanking, 5 foot step. After that, Full Attack

[Torgarn]

ANY OF YOU WITH BOWS, SLINGS OR CROSSBOWS, LOAD THEM NOW! Kerik shouts out to the goblins around him, he makes an arcane gesture muttering a word of power, nothing happens however as he holds his spell in check for the moment.

Readying the spell sleep for use when 2 or more elves enter range.

[Airanath]

"Well, it seems Ker's absence won't hurt so much. Yet." Thaliana says in a matter of fact tone, still racking her brains, but with some small plans at ready.
"Greay Lord of the Nine, grant on me the power to channel your corruption, bestow upon my touch the rot of all corrupting Evil, for this humble servant shall offer the a mighty sacrifice!", she prays, chaneling dark energy into her hands, which crackles with a menacing dark red glow, from which evil and anger seem to emante. ((I sacrifice my Hold Person, and spontaneusly convert it to Inflict Moderate Wounds))
As she completes the spell, she shouts to the group, "I need cover, for I need to touch is to bring some of my Lord's Fury uopon it."
She proceeds to make a touch attack.
[roll0] (I don't remember if str penalty matters for touch, if it does, subtract another 1 from that).
((Also, no info about the relic we are after in particular? Seeing we didn't talk much of it, Thaliana remembering it might be the best approach to that))

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe drops her musket by the side with one hand. She reaches to draw the longsword from her belt with the other as she starts off on a sprint for the Kython.

She barrels down the corridor beside Thaliana. The undead rushes headfirst, slamming into the aberration with vicious abandon.

{That enough 'cover'? Agathe will charge down the length of the corridor and plant her meatyshield self between the Kython and Thaliana & Ptik'drik's possible escape route.
Charge (AC 20): [roll0] for [roll1]}

[BlueWizard]

VS an Adult Kython:
Thaliana is positive there was no one relic. There are many lost in the city. Relics here might be related to the debauched cults of Luxurious and Lust.

Thaliana will need to move into the hall to touch this insectoid-lizard-thing...

Thaliana causes the monster some pain, and it hisses at her as it deals with Ptik'drit. Unfortunately, she must've not focused hard, and she didn't infuse too much wounds on the aberration. She is now crowded in the hall with the others. She won't be able to see Milo, because the Thir-kreen and Kython take up most of the hall.

Ptik'drit is a little more effective using his full attack on the beast. He knows he will need the aid of his allies for his attack is valiant, but not enough to fell the monster. Ptik'drit claws this monster 3 times, and nearly even bites into its hard chitin. {18, and 2 16's in a row!}

Ptik'drit damaged the nasty Kython, but it was not enough. The Kython finishes off the brave Thirkreen, but doesn't quite kill him. Ptik'drit is dying and oozing on the hall's stone floor. {-22} Luckily the kython's 3 other claws skipped off of the Thir-kreen's armor. It ignores the downed Thir-kreen, failing to finish him, and faces to the priestess that just touched him.

Ignoring Milo continues to be this nasty monster's error, and the hobbit finds some good joints to stab on this hard to hurt beast. The 2nd thrust just missed a good spot, but the main blade cut a sharp gash.

Agathe charging forward will barrel by Thaliana jostling the priestess on her way, and may have disturbed her spell, however the undead lady's attack is quite effective and shocks the kython by its suddenness. The hall is crowded for Thaliana and Agathe, especially with a big fallen Thir-kreen dying near by. Agathe's long sword went in deep. Thaliana can tell they are starting to show some promise in killing this wounded aberration now.

Garreth in the shadows will have serious trouble getting near the beast, he will hold as things unfold in the hall before him...

Initiatives:
Garreth
Thaliana
Ptik'drit at -6 hp DYING
Full Grown Kython
Milo 6+8
Agathe 9+4



Kerik vs the Elves:
Ker'iki'skara manages to inspire a few of his most loyal followers, but most of the goblins flee. About the same time Kerik fires off his sleep spell on two young elven wizards, the goblins will fire their bows. 2 hobgoblins had crossbows, and try to flank alongside Kerik.

Kerik's slumbering victims will float downward, and be shot in the air by goblins and killed. Other elves coming will be hit, but there are so many, and Kerik managed to only inspire about a dozen goblinoids to aid him. {OOC- This is generous with his charisma and lack of leadership feat....}

[Neftren]

Seeing Ptik'drit fall to the creature's claws, Garreth breaks cover, dashing towards him, attempting to stabilize his precarious slide into the spirit realm. "Well, let me see, I don't know anything about Thri-Keen anatomy. I suppose this little wriggly bit goes here, and that little wriggly bit goes there..."

[roll0]
(Edit: Assuming I'm in range of course. If not, then double move action to reach him, and then attempt to stabilize him).

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe steps into the breach previously occupied by Ptik'drik {5' step, due to initiative, she'll not be quick enough to interpose herself between Garreth and the Kython unless Garreth throws in a 5' step as well}.

The ranger thrusts under the chitinous plating of the insectoid beast. She twists the blade with a wrench, attempting to draw the monster's attention through sheer pain.

{Move: Careful strike (WoW RPG feat [Wis 13 req]: +4 to attack/damage as a move action)
Standard: Attack [roll0] for [roll1]}

[BlueWizard]

Garreth will have to be careful, but can safely pull the heavy armored Thir-kreen to safety, and stop the wounds. {STABLIZED!}

Thaliana will try to withdraw safely, knowing her safety is key to the party's survival... {DM action- withdrawal} This means Garreth is still nearby attempting to aid the downed Thir-kreen.

This action seems to anger the Thirkreen, and with his priestly target defensively retreating, he pounces upon the cat-man aiding Ptik'drit. Somehow its bite misses Garreth's head, but all four of its nasty claws sink into Garreth's sides. {This attack action away from Milo, allowed the hobbit a free flanking attack, which pokes the monster again for some pain. Still it ignores the little halfling. Agathe misses the free attack when it moves by her.}
Luckily for Garreth the kython only mostly grazed him internally, and he still lived after the attack! {only d: 15 on four claw attacks!}

Milo can flank again as the kython tries to finish off his cat-folk buddy Garreth. Once again his stab causes it annoying pain, but still it is not dead!

Agathe will finally finish it with her careful strike. She stabs it right in the back of the neck and goes down. She kills it instantly

End Combat------------------------------------------------->


Status:
Garreth hp 10/25
Ptik'drit at -6 hp Stablized
All other PCs full health



Kerik and the Green Gas:
Kerik is unsure whether or not his spell was successful or if it was an act the elves did as they slept. Moments later goblin arrows slew them anyway. Moments later green gas will begin to rain down upon the region over Ker'iki'skara. The tiefling didn't see which one, but it was clearly one of the more bad ass among the elves above.

[Airanath]

Thaliana takes another scroll from the case, and heals the Bug-man wounds, she curses how short her resources are. (4 scrolls left)
Cure Light Wounds: 1d8+1
"This is going to be one hell of a airtifact hunt... With Pitik in this situation we might want to find a room to barricade ourselves for a some time, to recover our strengh and set up a plan. If there is more of... THAT, we sure as hell need to breat one second."
((If we do barricade ourselves for a while, I will pray and prepare spells, we need them badly))
((lol... roller... just... hate... me?))

[GrassyGnoll]

"Oh, there's plenty more of that," the big-game hunter answers.

Agathe strolls back down the hallway to retrieve her firearm. She straps the weapon across her back and rejoins the party.

"Want me to take point? Mobbing on these horrors lets them pick out our most tender parts."

[Torgarn]

Retreat 30 paces and fire. Kerik walks backwards, turns around and shoots a blast of ice at the nearest elf.

Moving back 30 feet, then using Ray of frost on the nearest elf. Ranged touch attack [roll0] damage [roll1]

[Neftren]

Garreth cries out in pain as the beast's claws sink into his side. Gritting his teeth, he grunts out to Ptik'drit, "This better be worth it!" Garreth grabs hold of Ptik'drit and attempts to drag him towards safety (ideally a room with an entrance, and two or more exits).

[tuesdayscoming]

A breath after Thaliana's healing him, Ptik'drit sits up with a start. Staring straight ahead, his left antenna bounces forward before he springs onto his feet, crouches, and hisses as he looks around the room for his near-killer.

He looks almost dismayed for a moment when he sees it dead, but after a moment he loses his balance for half a second as he lurches forward, his middle left hand clutching his side.

His middle left hand?

He springs back onto his feet, only to screech a series of surprised curses in the Thri-kreen tongue as he falls back onto his bum, holding all six of his arms in front of him – the two new additions unremarkable next to the original four, save for the faint coats of blue-white hair coursing down their upper halves.

He unleashes a long, loud hiss of clicks "Pit'er'kerrick sp'ca'tss al'ttik gre'tiss'k!" As he springs once more to his feet and begins tearing at the tattered remains of his sweater, ripping it off his body. He then hastily removes his armor, struggling briefly with the clasps holding it in place.

When he finally gets it off, he finds that his thorax carapace has sprouted thick, dark hair, hair that extends down his newfound arms, lightening in color the further from his chest it grows. He stands staring down at himself, still and silent. That explains the itching, he thinks, even surprising himself slightly as he realizes that this new development is not nearly so alarming as the terrible feeling that had apparently birthed it.

Suddenly his mind is leaping to stories from the tribe – rumors of other Thri-kreen warriors who were somehow... changed... Almost like the Dust Moths that the children in his tribe would raise, they would adapt, evolve, become something fundamentally different from what they had once been. Or at least so the stories had gone. And always they would end with the strange ones being cast out, exiled to wander the desert plains alone. But now, already at a ripe 7 years of age, the happy days of Ptik's youth are gone, and the stories of adventure, of honor and battle that they told in those days are memories so very distant... Still, this hair, the arms, and having before found himself airborne without having leapt... The stories refuse to leave his thoughts.

Suddenly the pain from the wound in his side catches him off-guard once more, snapping him out of his memories. He lurches forward, his original two left hands wrapped around his torso, clutching a great gash the khyton had left in his side. He breathes out a long, chittering sigh as he attempts to focus himself.

"This one," he clicks after a period of extended silence, now looking up at the others. "This one is tired. And he has much to ponder." His mandibles click and he winces in pain as he breathes out. "Might the Agathe-Wauer know of a place that he might rest?"

Ptik will find a smooth, flat place to rest, lay down and wrack his brain for further memories of the changed thri-kreen warriors throughout the upcoming rest period, should the opportunity for one be afforded the party.

[Gice]

"Good to see you're back up!"
Milo says to Ptik, shaking both his new hands

"You took quite a beating! I was afraid we were going to lose you..

While I'm ready as ever to continue, not all of us seem to be,
Perhaps we could rest back in the city, we might even find Kerik on the way, we can use as much help as we can get in here.

[Neftren]

"Welcome to the ranks of the furry-peoples! Um. You didn't have those extra hands before, did you? I hope I didn't mess up your insides or anything. I just kinda stuck wriggly bit here and there, you know?"

[BlueWizard]

Within the Temple:
Looking around Garreth will see the other two doorways with rotting doors unopened, according to Agathe there is a circular chamber ahead with many doors. Some have been opened and one might be capable of resting within the former acolyte bunks there.

The foyer has 4 'exits':
1. stair up
2. left side's rotten wood, metal framed door
3. open doorway to hall toward circle chamber with many doorways
4. right side's rotten wood, metal framed door

Ptik'drit knows master Thir-kreen craftsmen that could make use of an undamaged kython carapace for armor. He believes this is damaged, and he wouldn't know how to properly remove it.


Kerik vs the Elves:
Kerik manages to completely miss freezing a young looking wizard overhead. There are so many and more come!

His moment to flee is over as green gas rains over him. There will be no chance of escape since it seems to rain down all over. He blacks out... as the gases choke the air out of him!

But, he doesn't find himself in Hell just yet. He isn't dead, but he is unconscious to the world.

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe stands a little back from the scene of Ptik'drit's metamorphosis. She watches the Thri'keen's evolution unfold with a mute, covert interest; admiring it like a dew-laced spider's web in the early morn. She douses her torch in the Kython's spilled ichor and produces a business card from her coat pocket.

"The chamber ahead is quiet enough. But for caution's sake, let's retreat up the antechamber. I can call in a gnome caravaneer, no delay. He's a bit pricey though, magic goods mostly, a shelf above general store supplies."

Agathe detaches the longsword scabbard from her belt and fishes through her pockets for a bag of coins.

"If it means keeping you breathers alive, I'll put a down payment on a wand of healing. I expect ya'll to pay for what you can, though."

{Agathe's proposing exit #1, up the stairs of the 30x30 room into the tunnel by the entrance. She'll summon Ootinay there.

750 gold healing wand / five investors = 150g each

Agathe will attempt to trade in her longsword for a +1 cold iron battleaxe (approx. 1/2 market value of a +2 equivalent longsword).}

[BlueWizard]

Agathe will need a little more purchasing power to call in the gnome.
This would be too little for him to come all the way from the Astral for.

[GrassyGnoll]

{All in favor of retreating to the entrance?}

[Airanath]

"Intriguing idea, I believe I have some coin in my purse to invest, I could ask my Lord for healing magic, but he isn't very happy granting that. As for your plan, does sound the best place we can rest right now."

[Neftren]

"How about we focus on getting to somewhere defensible first? Now, I'd rather not go into the circular chamber with multiple doors. That's just a recipe for another ambush. Agathe, what's behind those side doors?"

[GrassyGnoll]

"Closets, alcoves and trapdoors. And a few bodies..."

[Neftren]

"I think that option may be better. We can use whatever furniture inside to barricade the doorway. I presume our objective is in the general "downwards" direction, so the trapdoors probably lead that way. As for the bodies... you mean, dead ones, yes? The last thing I want to do is wake up in the middle of the night screaming ZOMBIE!" Garreth wiggles his paws for effect.

[GrassyGnoll]

"Ex-zombies. They're bodies now. Saw a pack of dretches as well, but they should be no problem."

Agathe considers Garreth's proposal further and chimes in, "Oh, and I don't sleep. I'll post watch."

{Ptik'drit doesn't sleep either, huh? Now Agathe won't be so lonely on her nightly vigils!}

[Airanath]

"I guess that figures it, let's pack and rest for a bit, I'll try asking for some healing at the dark hours. As for the alcoves, anything useful in them? Maybe books?" Thaliana asks the last part with a glimmer in her eyes.

((Ptik doesn't sleep? Now that is new, I tought Thrii-keens slept o.0))

[tuesdayscoming]

Though he would never vocalize it, Ptik is relieved by the casual acceptance with which the group observes his recent changes. His long term companions (at least long in the eyes of a 7 year old insectoid), Milo and Garreth, will likely pick up on something of this relief. Though he clutches his side and, despite his best efforts, wheezes slightly as he walks, Ptik's step nonetheless has something resembling a happy bounce in it. Whatever the fate of the changed thri-kreen from the stories of his youth, it seems that Ptik's new tribe could see past his new form, and would not cast him out just yet.

Thinking back on the three's previous adventures tracking down the assassin of their first Guild contact, his antennae will droop low and bounce back and forth from side to side - the closest thing, perhaps, to a smile that his physiology would allow.

As they greet him, he will clasp Milo and Garreth in his many arms, and lift then off the ground in a monstrous bear hug."My friends!" he exclaims.

He will kneel to Thaliana and, upon rising, clasp his uppermost left fist to his chest. His antennae will rise upwards as he says "This one is..." he chitters for a moment, attempting to remember the word... "is imb'deck'ted to the Lady. If it please her, after he rests, this one will return to fetch her painted drone?"

He will not know how to interpret Agathe's perculiar way of staring at him, and will stare back at her for a full ten seconds before simply nodding.

{OOC: as per my sig, I won't be available much in the next few days. Please just assume that Ptik goes along with the group's plans, happily. If during watch hours he finds that all but Agathe and himself rest, he will likely try to initiate an awkward conversation about bow the huntress lost her life. BlueWizard, please feel free to control my precious bug man, but please do be kind.}

[BlueWizard]

Resti Time: Somewhere......
It is still the middle of the day, but Agathe can lead you down the 60' hall. A simple hall, carved from the rock itself.

The hall opens to a circular room with many doors and broken columns, this region looks to have been well-looted. And the stench of death is coming from the rotten carcass of some mostly eaten monster. There are flies and it is quite rank in here. There is also a pool of icky goo here too that smells of rotten death.

Numbering doorways {not entryway}: #1 is to the left, #12 to the right.
#1, 2, 4, 7, 8 are all open or broken open.

Thaliana will need until the next morning to get her spells, though you all can try to safely chill in one of the ancient acolyte rooms.

Milo and Agathe will hear the slight moaning of some soft breeze coming from Room #4.


Kerik and the Elves:
Ker'iki'skara will be most disappointed to find himself in dreamland still. He will awaken at some point, but he will be blindfolded and naked; and doesn't not know what time it is. He is also magically bound, but can hear the elves speaking around him. One elf addresses him in human-common, "Why come to destroy our forests? What does your lord need?" This old elf seems annoyed to even be speaking with Ker'iki'skara.
{OOC- He has been brought up to 1 hit point.}

[Torgarn]

Ker'iki'skara spits out a bit of blood and bile, responding in common I'm here to do no such thing. You are misinformed. Good job.

[Gice]

"I'm okay with resting, but only if Ptik stays up and is on guard."
As soon as Milo finishes talking he turns around and points at a door, he slowly moves towards it and halts 10 feet behind it, still pointing at it. He whispers "I hear something behind that door, lets check it out before resting out here.

Is there anything possibly behind it I shouldn't shoot?" he asks as he takes his bow and aims for the door.

{Ready a standard action to shoot at any creature (the easiest to hit) behind the door after Agathe opens it.}

Shooting: [roll0] to hit for [roll1] damage + [roll2] if the opponent is flat-footed and within 30 feet (20 feet in the room)

[GrassyGnoll]

"That room?"

Agathe takes a survey of the doors from left to right. The moaning room is the fourth from the left and fresh in her memory.

"That's the room with the trapdoor. Killed some kind of shade in there last time. The tunnel below is drafty, dark, hundred feet deep at least. Probably infested with undead."

Agathe silently recounts the other rooms' furnishings. She points to room #1 & #2 and recalls out loud, "There's a bed in there. No books, but there are sheets and a closet."

The ranger walks into room #2 and towards the bed where the dried corpse lay. Agathe scoops the mummified remains out of the bunk and stuffs them in the closet.

[BlueWizard]

Priest Rooms:
The night will pass. The beds in #1 and #2 are useless and crumble to dust, as do most of the ancient sheets that remain in shreds.

The dead woman in room #2 is partially mummified, but not really and she will crumble when moved. There is a pendant on her, among the crumbly bits. All of you with sharp eyes will see the red sparkling ruby featured on this dark necklace.

The two rooms will be safe to stay in for the rest of the day, and this coming night. For now...
The Morning will come, and Ptik'drit will alert Agathe in the morning the next day that there is humanoids above. He will hear voices at the top of the stair. Elfin voices.



Kerik Rescued?:
After Ker'iki'skara speaks there is a long deliberation with the elves, followed by silence in the woods, and then they speak more elfin among themselves around him. Just from the few sylvan words the elves use, Kerik can tell the old elves are debating his fate. Execution or Release? Perhaps a woodland court hearing?

There are shouts from young elves, then a hub-bub of activity in the wood. There is murmuring among the elves, then a strange old goblinoid voice speaking elf is heard. It is very familiar, he seems to be regarding Kerik and his freedom... Ker'iki'skara thinks...

Minutes later the magical bond are released, and the physical chains are being unbound by some old goblin in tattered robes and long hairy green ears. He speaks in infernally, "Foolish deviling are you. Almost killed you were. Not your father's realm. No. Hmmm. Not one bit."

It is morning the next day, Ker'iki'skara will finally feel rested."Take you to your friends, I will, yes. But, endanger the goblins with your presence you do. Yes. Stay to dungeons, yes, but keep planar Blood-War to yourself. We even now no? Hmmm???"

[Torgarn]

Thank you Ker'iki'skara says wearily. I need to be a bit more grounded. I am only one being after all.

[BlueWizard]

"Only this did they give me." The old goblin hands over Ker'iki'skara's spellbook. And the spell component pouches. "These must've dropped... take this. It will fit." It is an old brown robe, but would function as clothing. "Naked deviling not right."

[Torgarn]

Why were they under the impression that I wanted to burn their forest. I am a devil, I don't waste my energy on fruitless endeavors

[GrassyGnoll]

Agathe sits against a wall, facing the only visible entrance to the lodging. She sits upright and without fidgeting, in fact, the only sign she is not comatose is the sweep of her lidless stare.

At length, Agathe begins to ponder the insomniac locustman.

"So, Ptik'drit, what brought you into this world? You have a mother, or a queen and a hive... or whatnot?"

{Alert of elves}

"If you don't want to ambush them in the hall, I say we let them come. Close quarters, difficult retreat. I wouldn't want to meet you in a melee underground, that's for sure."

[Neftren]

"I'd rather keep them all bottled up in the doorway. Once we go into that hallway, it'll be suicide. They'll have us on every side. Are you sure that trapdoor doesn't lead anywhere productive?"

[GrassyGnoll]

"A pitch black tunnel haunted by night shades. Uncharted territory. If other companies haven't struck it first, we're on a good lead."

{OOC- Hells yeah, let's hop in it. Agathe will go first.}

[Airanath]

"We could send some elven "explorers" down, if they come back alive, its safe, and we go on after the execution, if not, its dangerous, and we move another way." Thaliana proposes with an amused grim.

[BlueWizard]

Ker'iki'skara in the Woods:
The old goblin shrugs in response to Kerik. "You are a devil. This hobgob-chief is priest of Hell. Sure difference you can see? For this old wizard cannot. Warn him I did. Human wizards not my job to protect hobgobs from. Keep demons away I do."

At some point the old goblin will wave Kerik on, "Follow. Take you to your friends. Yes."


The Trap-Door:
The elves will not be gone long before Garreth and Milo hear the approach of two others. It will be right when Agathe is about to lead the part to the trap-door in room #4. {OOC- Ptik'drit got lucky on his listen check earlier.}


Retro Conversation:
Much time passed, I didn't mean to rush it. Feel free to retro-talk, as I do these side-notes. No need for SPOILERS. I miss them. As long as we can follow where what is said, and it doesn't conflict too much, feel free to role-play. :smallcool:

[Torgarn]

Yes, let's get a move on, I shouldn't have gotten so caught up in my fun.