World's End

[Tyndmyr]

World's End is a small, sleepy farming town. The local populace views adventuring types as dangerous rogues, but so long as you abide by the laws in town, you feel like you'll be safe and secure. The shadesteel golems patrolling the streets are one of the main reasons for this.

Notable Locations n town:

The Inn of Moderate Comfort

1 gold a night for room and board. Food, drink, etc can be had here for book standard prices.


Market Square

All non-magical, non-masterwork general adventuring items can be found here for book standard prices.

The same items may be sold here for half standard price.

Total Gold Reserve for buying: 1750


Way-Temple of Farlaughan

During the day, the following services and goods are available:
25 Gp - Holy Water
25 Gp - Casting of Cure Light Wounds
10 Gp - Casting of Cure Minor Wounds


The Gurgling Cauldron(potion-shop)

Proprietor: Alden Wood

Current Inventory:
50 Gp - Potion of Cure Light Wounds(3)
50 Gp - Potion of Endure Elements
300 Gp - Potion of Cat's Grace
50 Gp - Potion of Mage Armor(2)
50 Gp - Oil of Magic Weapon
250 Gp - Potion of Enlarge Person
300 Gp - Potion of Bear's Endurance
300 Gp- Potion of Cure Moderate Wounds

Buying Portions for 50% of book value.

Current Gold Reserves for Purchases: 640


Marvek's Marvelous Splinters(wand shop)

Proprietor: Marvek the Greedy

Current Inventory:
375 Gp - Wand of Detect Magic
375 Gp - Wand of Light
750 Gp - Wand of Cure Light Wounds
750 Gp - Wand of Magic Missile(CL 1)
820 Gp - Eternal Wand of Cure Light Wounds
2,250 Gp - Wand of Magic Missile(CL 3)
4,500 Gp - Wand of Bulls Strength
4,500 Gp - Wand of Summon Monster 2

Buying Wands for 50% of book value.

Current Gold Reserves for Purchases: 2200


Curiosities and More!(magic item shop)

Proprietor: Gregory Winklestein(gnome)

Current Inventory:

5 Gp - Tumbling Bolts(6)
20 Gp - Flaming Arrow
20 Gp - Arrow of Outsider(Air)-Bane
20 Gp - Bolt of Humanoid(Goblin)-Bane(2)
50 Gp - Feather Token(Anchor)
100 Gp - Masterwork Item of Spellcraft & Knowledge(Arcana)
250 Gp - Elixir of Swimming
4000 Gp - Periapt of Wisdom +2
5000 Gp - Bag of Holding Type 2

Purchases magical ammunition and wondrous items at 50% of book value

Current Gold Reserves for Purchases: 1120


The Prepared Traveller(magic weapon/armor shop)

Proprietor: Angvard Hailfall

Current Inventory:
1310 Gp - +1 Longsword
750 Gp - Living Metal Dastana
350 Gp - Masterwork Greatsword
5500 Gp - +2 Fullplate
300 Gp - Masterwork Longspear
300 Gp - Masterwork Kukri
310 Gp - Masterwork Lance
1100 Gp - +1 Chain Shirt
500 Gp - Masterwork Composite Longbow(+1 Str)
1035 Gp - +1 Bastard Sword
350 Gp - Masterwork Studded Leather Armor
1030 Gp - +1 Tower Shield

Buying magical/masterwork weapons & armor for 50% of book value.

Current Gold Reserves for Purchases: 1560


The Magister's Tower

The Proprietors: Arty, Maelcovik, and Tiernan.

Goods available:
Spellbooks, ink, spell components at book standard prices.
25 Gp - Scroll of Silent Image
25 Gp - Scroll of Protection from Evil
25 Gp - Scroll of Enlarge Person
25 Gp - Scroll of Erase
125 Gp - Scroll of Identify


The following spells are kept on loose-leaf paper for copying purposes at the following fees(in addition to ink costs):

5 Gp - Jump
10 Gp - Alarm
10 Gp - Comprehend Languages
15 Gp - Erase
20 Gp - Feather Fall
25 Gp - Identify
50 Gp - Magic Missile
100 Gp - Nerveskitter

The Mage's will purchase scrolls for 50% of book prices. In addition, they will negotiate for interesting spellbooks based on the value of spells none of them have.

Current Gold Reserves for Purchases: 400

[Tyndmyr]

**Reserved for Additional Town Information**

[Tyndmyr]

The Gates to the Wild:

The South Gate

Leading directly into the heart of the wild, a large, dark forest is visible. This gate is currently open, but the guard warns you that evil things lurk in the woods, and the gate is locked and barred during twilight hours.


The West Gate

Sparse trees dot the gentle terrain to the west, but mountains can be seen in the distance, their tops wreathed with clouds. No travel currently seems to be moving in this area.
This gate is currently open.


The North Gate

This way leads to the well guarded path back to civilization. In this direction, a peaceful retirement awaits for the adventurer who tires of frontier life.


The East Gate

Rolling hills can be seen from this gate, with a river winding around them to the north.
This gate is currently open.



The Seastone Gate

Leading toward the northeast, this gate is an aquatic gate, closing and opening to allow the river trading boats in. The river's current is lazy, and it looks to be about fifteen feet deep.


The Peasant's Gate

Leading toward the northwest, visible outside this gate is farmland and travellers. The gate is currently open.

[Tyndmyr]

Thread Links:
OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=13718230)
Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=252404)


Approved, Active Chars:
{table]Player|Character Sheet|Race|Class
al'Lan Mandrag|Selena Trimaine (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=433346)|Human|Beguiler
Theoboldi|Renlan Aerael (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=433352)|Elf|Beguiler
newBlazingAngel|Rignar Liemson (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=433347)|Elf|Ranger
Planswalker|Jim Dandee (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=433507)|Human|Dragonfire Adept
Black_Zawisza|Lyude Talleyrand (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=433964)|Human|Artificer
Yugi24862|Halon (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=319424)|Elf|Wizard
SandDemon|Sacer To'rak (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=434377)|Human|Shadowcaster
rorikdude12|Fedris Kellen (http://www.dndsheets.net/view.php?id=40151)|Human|Rogue
Drynwyn|Vanton Illirius (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=303840)|Human|Druid
[/table]

Racial Unlocks, by Player:


{table] Player Races Unlocked
Planswalker|Goblin
Rorikdude|Aquatic Elf
[/table]

[Tyndmyr]

Other Locations(please don't peruse unless you've discovered them).

Krieger's Not Stolen Goods Emporium

Proprietor: Krieger

Inventory:
10 Gp - Acid Flask(3)
30 Gp - Theives Tools(4)
40 Gp - Tiny Centipede Poison(DC 11, 1dex/1dex)
50 Gp - Disguise Kit
50 Gp - Antitoxin(2)
100 Gp - Masterwork's Thieves Tools(2)
350 Gp - Goodbye Kiss Poison(DC 15, Exhaustion/Unconciousness)
500 Gp - Eyeblast Poison(DC 23, Blindness/Blindness)
250 Gp - Masterwork Longsword
850 Gp - Bag of Tricks, Grey

Buys Poisons at 50% book value.
Buys anything magical at 30% book value.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena jumped nimbly down from the cart she had been riding on, and threw a charming smile back at the doddering farmer who had assisted her. She decided to fall into step with the general flow of people, doubting that anyone had followed her this far, but still, the last months had given her good cause to be wary.

She wove through the streets, barely in control of her direction as the masses formed channels in the streets. So it was that she came to a large open market square and was finally released from the tide as they dispersed among the stalls. She spent some time perusing the stalls, but she hadn't come here for supplies.

If anyone takes any interest in her then she will move over to them. If not, then she will try to find out a little about the town, particularly the location of any place that provides bed or board.

Gather Info: [roll0]

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar slipped into town under the radar, among a group of merchants. He had no problems with the law, he simply preferred solitude unless he was choosing the company. His armor and weapons were hidden under a weather stained cloak and hood, that gave him the look of a hermit, or perhaps a wandering monk. As was traditional, he made his first business in town to test the local brews, and went searching for a good and reasonable mug.


Gather Information: [roll0]

[yugi24862]

Halon walked into the town arrogantly, lifting his nose at the unwashed pesants around him. He had to find a place to sleep and some more about the town though, so as he walked into the town he tried to learn a bit about what the gossip was, incase any of it was inportant, while he consulted he knowledge of the town.


Know:Local [roll0]
Gather Info: [roll1]

[ToySoldierCPlus]

Nemo meandered through the town, trying to find his way back to the inn. He'd been here for three days already, and was just about prepared to leave on an exploratory mission into the wilds. He figured he'd try the South Gate first, but it'd be good if he could find some companions first. Not strictly necessary, of course, but it would be a touch safer.

[Black_Zawisza]

The neighborly peasant - Niles, his name was - finally spoke up as they reached the city walls. "This is a pretty safe community as places go, but venture beyond the southern gates and you're on your own. Like we say in World's End, it's not the end of the world, but you can see it from here!" He gestured towards the distant forest.

"I'll keep that in mind, friend," Lyude said, with every intention of going south. He wanted to be thoroughly prepared before he entered that woodland labyrinth, though - even from this far away, it seemed unnaturally foreboding.

"Well, see you around, rabbi! I have a flock to attend to...as do you!" Niles ran back in the direction of the farms, where the holy man's visit had caused quite a hubbub.

Lyude was startled by Niles' sudden departure. "Give my best to the family!" he called after him.

The literal shepherd turned 'round and waved. "Oh, almost forgot - welcome to World's End!" He spun back around and sprinted for the farming village.

Lyude made no haste in his efforts to enter the city; you could see him carrying a simple walking stick, garbed in a purple cloak and a cheerful demeanor, excusing and pardoning the dozens of people that rudely pushed past him - more for the fun of it than anything else.

He spent the rest of the afternoon trying to find a lodging tavern, and actively seeking out the seedier parts of town while doing so.

Gather Information: (1d20+3)[13]

[Theoboldi]

Renlan walked into the city through the northern gate, his eyes wandering over the buldings and the populance. Tired from the walking, he looked for an inn where he could spent the night. The way had been long and tiring, and the weight of the equipment on his back was heavy on Renlan. As he searched, he tried to remember what he had learned about the city, and asked the locals when he didn't remember something.


know local [roll0]
gather information [roll1]

[planswalker]

Jim Dandee, having just arrived with his trusty mule Molly in tow, will go to the local inn and pre-purchase a week stay ahead of time. Including a week's stabling for Molly, that runs him 10 gold, 5 silver.

Once his account with the inkeeper is squared away, he leaves Molly in their capable hands and runs out the South Gate with enthusiasm. He doesn't really care about the peasants in town, but he just knows secrets lie out there in the wild!

[Tyndmyr]

Regardless of gather information results, you are all able to find all of the places listed above(some of you will have additional info detailed in your updates).

Rignar

*rolls*

You overhear a well dressed man muttering darkly to another about the "damned theiving kobolds taking all the crops", while shaking his fist at the northwest gate.


Halon

While ambling about the city, gathering what information you can and surveying the town, you see a narrow, dark back alley. Peering within, you can just make out the sign, "Krieger's Not Stolen Goods Emporium".

(this shop will be listed above in a separate section shortly).

Nemo

There's no NPC adventurers here, unfortunately, but you see several other evident newcomers out and about(the other PCs doing gather information, etc).


Renlan

While ambling about the city, gathering what information you can and surveying the town, you see a narrow, dark back alley. Peering within, you can just make out the sign, "Krieger's Not Stolen Goods Emporium".

(this shop will be listed above in a separate section shortly).

Jim Dandee

The seargent of the guard raises an eyebrow as you scamper past, but does not seem inclined to ask your business. As you leave the town, you note that this road seems less well kept up than the others, as grass is growing between the paving stones, and no other travellers or signs of life are about. A band, two arrow-shots in breadth, of cleared land encircles the town, but beyond, the forest looms, the road vanishing within it. A damaged wooden sign points to the east, saying "Alden's Mine" in faded, barely legible letters. If ever a path led that way, it's no longer visible.

[planswalker]

Absolutely pleased to see things so abandoned, Jim will head east in hopes of finding this mine.

[Theoboldi]

After a moment of hesitation, Renlan entered the alley. Whatever the reason behind the strange sign was, it would surely be interesting to find out. Passivly observing the rest of the alley he made his way to the shop, eager to invesigate.

[yugi24862]

Seeing the sign, Halon marks down the location of the shop in his mind and heads toward to tavern, looking for other adventurers in the area.


Edit: OOC thread for those that haven't seen it. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=13725539#post13725539)

[ToySoldierCPlus]

Nemo looks around at the other newcomers in town. "Is it just me, or are there more of them now than there were yesterday? Probably, yes. Delta, do you think we should poke around town some more, or set out now?" He stops and listens for a moment, though no voice can be heard. "Good point. Let's see if the guards need any help with anything first." Nemo then heads off toward town hall/the guards' barracks, there to inquire into any aid the town requires.

[Tyndmyr]

Jim Dandee

As you trek a bit eastward, a small hummock of ground with a partially collapsed cabin nearby becomes visible. There's a hole visible in the dirt berm that looks like it might have once been a doorway, and the cabin bears the marks of long neglect. In front of the cabin, vines and scraggly shrubs dot the landscape, almost entirely hiding an old well, the stones crumbling from it.

From behind one of the shrubberies, a wild dog, half starved and filthy, catches your scent, and leaps out toward you, it's teeth bared.

Init: [roll0]


Renlan

Peering inside, you see a small selection of poisons and thieves tools, along with a couple of out-of-place magic items at discount prices. The elderly fellow behind the counter has a gaunt, angular face that glowers at you suspiciously, and his leather armor seems to be about as old as he is.

OOC: Shop list posted up now.

[planswalker]

Jim Dandee

As you trek a bit eastward, a small hummock of ground with a partially collapsed cabin nearby becomes visible. There's a hole visible in the dirt berm that looks like it might have once been a doorway, and the cabin bears the marks of long neglect. In front of the cabin, vines and scraggly shrubs dot the landscape, almost entirely hiding an old well, the stones crumbling from it.

From behind one of the shrubberies, a wild dog, half starved and filthy, catches your scent, and leaps out toward you, it's teeth bared.

Init: [roll0]


[roll0]

If Jim goes first, he will bathe the dog in an entangling exhalation line of fire for half of [roll1] (round down, minimum 1). If it takes damage (aka, doesn't have evasion), it is entangled for [roll2] rounds and will take 1d6 fire damage at the start of each turn as long as it's entangled.

If Jim goes second, his actions might change depending on what the dog does.

[Theoboldi]

Renlan gives the shopkeeper a warm smile. "Hello there, sir. I was passing by your shop, and was awfully curious about what you were selling. These small shops always have something interesting, you know." He starts looking through the exhibited items, slightly sighing at the sight of the many poisons. After a while, he turns towards the exit. "Too bad you don't seem to have anything I need, or could afford. Goodbye, sir." With that he leaves the store, making his way to the inn to prepare for his departure tommorow.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena struggles to make heads or tails of the town, but in the end finds her way to an inn, oddly named as providing only moderate comfort, but Selena passed through, curious now to see what kind of establishment wouldn't try to make itself seem grander than it was.

She strolled in, perfectly content to draw attention to herself, and brazenly approached the bar.

Charisma check: [roll0]

[Black_Zawisza]

Lyude was glad to enter the Inn of Moderate Comfort for a chair to rest in - his only good leg was aching for relaxation. A young woman strutting up to the barkeep caught his attention - something about her attracted him. A gut feeling told him that behind her smile lurked an enormously powerful will. One with few scruples against manipulating others for her own gain - a sinner not to be trifled with, certainly.

He proceeded to trifle with her as though he suspected nothing. "Evening, miss! Care to join an old man for some spirits?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena appraised the old man: she herself had never had to stoop to the levels of her old employees to get what she wanted, and didn't quite know whether she would, but that would definitely not start tonight with this old sod.

"I expect I'll be keeping to myself tonight, though your offer is kind," Selena responded affably, hoping he would pass on: she didn't have time to chat to random old men right now.

[Theoboldi]

Renlan watches the scene from a few feet away, smiling to himself as he thinks about how his calming aura will make any attempts of the woman to manipulate the feelings of the men in the room much more difficult. He continues drinking his ale, and rents a room for the night from the barkeep.


1 gold and 4 copper removed for lodging and drinking

[yugi24862]

Halon watches the scene unfold before him, and shrugs, regarding it as one of those crude things humans do. Still, he had to put up with them to explore this region, but there were other elves here as well. He sat at the same table as Renlan, and asked "So, fellow elf, you come here to adventure aswell?

[Theoboldi]

Renlan looks up from his drink, giving the mage a friendly look. "Hello there, young man. Nice to see another elf around these parts. As for your question, yes, you could say I'm adventuring. I want to see the world after all these years spent in the safety of the cities." He takes another sip from his mug, waiting for the younger elf to continue talking.

[yugi24862]

Sipping his ale, Halon replied "I just finished conjuring collage, thought I'd see the world, learn some new skills before I delve too deep into studies of the arcane. I was thinking of looking around the area beyond the east gate tomorrow, do you wish to join me? Unless you have a better idea, of course." Halon felt slightly nervous, just asking the elf out of the blue if he would wish to come with him.

[Theoboldi]

"Well, it's always better to travel together. Especially in a dangerous place like the wild. I have one condition though, if I am to travel with you." Renlan finishes his mug, then sternly looks at Halon. "No killing. I don't care whether we're attacked by bandits, or animals, or anything else out there. No killing, unless you are absolutly forced to. That's all."

[yugi24862]

"Well, it's always better to travel together. Especially in a dangerous place like the wild. I have one condition though, if I am to travel with you." Renlan finishes his mug, then sternly looks at Halon. "No killing. I don't care whether we're attacked by bandits, or animals, or anything else out there. No killing, unless you are absolutly forced to. That's all."

Halon listens to the old elf speak, and replys"Ok, I'll make sure I only risk killing someone when my own life is severely threatened. Anyways, I dont believe we've introduced ourselves, so I'm Halon.

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar entered the inn in his usual manner. Long, silent strides that left nothing but the swish of a cloak and some scattered dust. Spotting some fellow elves, he moves to sit near them. Near them, barely within possible conversation distance. He silently orders some fine steak, cheese and wine. Planning to delve into uncivilized land and face almost certain death, required some fine dining before hand.

-11 gp for fine wine and a room. -4 for meat and cheese.

[Theoboldi]

"Renlon. Nice to make your aquaintance." Renlon lifts himself from his chair. "I still have to prepare for travelling, but we can talk some more tommorow. Is there anything else that you want to tell me before I go to my room?"
He turns to go to his room, waiting a few moments in case Halon says something else, then walks away.

[Black_Zawisza]

"Couldn't help overhearing, fellows..." Lyude interrupted. He leaned his chair backwards and turned his head to meet their eyes with an honest smile. "I've been contemplatin' heading that way meself. Mind if I come along? ...hey, miss!" He tried to get the attention of the woman that had rebuffed him seconds before. "Looks like we've got ourselves a good ol' fashioned company of heroes assembled! We're heading for the wilds to the east in the morning. Whaddya say?"

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar chose this opportune intrusion to put in his own words. "I'm afraid I'm just as gossip prone, as I was listening to the whole affair. If the invitation is open, I'm looking to stake my own reputation as an adventurer. On the way here I overheard a gentleman airing his grievances over a harvest stolen by some kobolds. Perhaps we could deal with this problem ourselves. He says in a mildly friendly tone.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena turned at the rather loud man who she thought she had dealt with.

Adventurers? Do I look like an adventurer? Well, still got my bow and rapier, so I guess so, but that's self defence.

She strolled over slowly, so as not to shout across the room: "I'm afraid I'm not one for heroism my friends, but I shall keep note of you in case I ever need a rescuer." This last is said with yet another winning smile.

Heroes are a lot more interesting than old men: I'm sure our paths will cross again...

[Tyndmyr]

Jim


[roll0]

If Jim goes first, he will bathe the dog in an entangling exhalation line of fire for half of [roll1] (round down, minimum 1). If it takes damage (aka, doesn't have evasion), it is entangled for [roll2] rounds and will take 1d6 fire damage at the start of each turn as long as it's entangled.

If Jim goes second, his actions might change depending on what the dog does.

Jim does indeed go first, and the dog appears to be quite entangled(and a bit hurt). Despite the sudden slowdown, the dog manages to slowly struggle it's way over to him(double move action, is now threatening you).


The rest:

Don't see any actions I need to handle at the moment...sleeping, eating, and chatting with other PCs is automatically successful.

[ToySoldierCPlus]

After wandering for several hours, and still unable to find anything remotely resembling a townhall or guardhouse, Nemo returns to the inn. He pays for a night's lodging and for some proper food, and makes his way to an empty seat in the tavern. As he sits, he overhears the conversation occurring between several other newcomers to the town. He gets up moves over to them. "Pardon, but did I overhear you say something about kobolds stealing crops and plans to do something about it? As well as further plans to venture into the wilds outside town?"

[yugi24862]

After seeing Renlon leave, Halon finishes his drink while he overhears a few other adventures talking about a stolen harvest. He lingers for a moment to listen in on there conversation, then pays the tavernkeeper for a room and heads to bed.

SPend 1 gold on a room for the night.

[planswalker]

Jim
Jim does indeed go first, and the dog appears to be quite entangled(and a bit hurt). Despite the sudden slowdown, the dog manages to slowly struggle it's way over to him(double move action, is now threatening you).


On its turn, the burning entanglement hurts it for [roll0].

On his turn, Jim will stand his ground, growl at the puppy, and blast it for [roll1] fire.

[newBlazingAngel]

Seeing he has their attention, Rignar continues with the information he has. The man who I saw, was very finely dressed. Likely a plantation owner whose fortune is dependent on fine upstanding citizens like us returning his lost property. For a finders fee. I'm sure I could find him again. And, their kobolds. May as well be weeds. Only a real threat if they cover your entire lawn and only require a good firm pull to be removed.

[ToySoldierCPlus]

"Kobolds. Not exactly a major threat to the town, but one has to start somewhere. Would it be alright if I joined you in resolving this issue?"

[al'Lan Mandrag]

They seemed like a merry band all right, but something made Selena think it would be worthwhile keeping an eye on this lot.

It was still relatively early in the day, so she strolled away from them, circulating amongst the locals and trying to find out a little more about the town, high life and low.

Gather Info to find out about the main players in the town: any big business men or gang groups, as well as whoever runs the town.
[roll0]

Also, would it be all right if I took 2 flaws and 2 feats? I posted my sheet before you allowed them.

[Theoboldi]

After preparing his equipment for traveling, Renlan decides to do some research on the kobold who have stolen the harvest. He tries to remember everything he knows of the local kobold tribes, and also tries to see if the natives know anything else.


know local[roll0]
gather information [roll1]

[Black_Zawisza]

"Well, if that's everything, I must be going." Lyude stood himself up. "Let us meet back here in the morning...I have business to attend to before the sun rises..." He approaches the barkeep, engages him in idle conversation, and proceeds to order the finest food the barkeep has available. Lyude wraps it up and places it in two baskets, and heads for the poorer side of town. Once there, he looks for the most destitute family he can find, and shares an evening with them.

Purchased one day's ration and a banquet's worth of food for three people, costing 31 gold in total.

[newBlazingAngel]

"Agreed." Rignar said before leaving for his own room.

[ToySoldierCPlus]

"Very well, then." Nemo returns to his food, and, once finished, heads up to his room for the evening.

[Tyndmyr]

ToySoldierCPlus:

OOC: Apologies over not noticing the guardhouse bit.

You find nothing resembling a townhall or guardhouse proper...law enforcement/security of the town seems to be primarily handled by golems. No doubt there are humans behind the creation of such things, but human guards of any sort within town appear to be unusual. World's End also appears to be too small and out of the way to rate any sort of notable offices or dignitaries from the empire proper.

Planswalker:

The dog keels over as flames lick over it's charred, crispy body. The scene appears peaceful once more.

+100 Xp


Al'Lan Mandrag:

You discover that the town is officially administered by the Empire, but beyond stationing the golems here and tossing up a wall, they've mostly ignored it. World's End is small, out of the way, and is not particularly important economically, so it doesn't seem to have a proper government as such. However, as the golems come down harshly on anyone initiating violence or overt crime, there's a semblance of order. You do discover a few businessmen of sorts, though none seem terribly wealthy. Beyond the shop owners, you spot a halfling directing the shipment of lumber, and a number of those involved in the transport or selling of farm goods. A small tannery also exists in town.

OOC: Go nuts with flaws. =)


Theoboldi:

Kobolds locally are considered something of an infestation. They're not particularly organized...at least, not near town, though rumors of warrens positively infested with the filthy creatures further away persist. However, they can be quite dangerous to the unprepared traveler, and make a practice of stealing away with livestock and goods.

You're informed that they've been cropping up again this summer, and the farmland regions have made occasional, half hearted efforts to cull them, but it hasn't seemed to have much effect.


Black Zawisza

You find the tanner's apprentice and his young wife. They live out of a small room in the side of the tannery, and the unfortunate smells of the hides inside waft through their living quarters. Your generosity is well received, and they welcome you into their humble abode and chat with you over the unexpected meal. The apprentice mentions that he hopes to one day own a tannery of his own, once he masters the trade, and is freely willing to give you tips as to what sort of hides are the best to seek out.


All the sleepers:

The night passes uneventfully, and you find yourself feeling quite refreshed in the morning

[planswalker]

Satisfied with victory, Jim will enter the old house and poke around.

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar will rise, and go down to a hearrty breakfast of milk and oats.

OOC: Pricing?

[Theoboldi]

Renlan meets with the others at breakfeast, enjoying a small meal of turnips and bread.


1 silver removed for a poor meal.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena retires after her enquiries, with much to ponder: the lack of structure indicated a huge power vacuum, but since no one seemed to have capitalized on it probably indicated other factors she didn't know about yet.
As she slept in the inns uncomfortable bed she pondered whether this would be a means of supporting herself and regaining her power...

In the morning she rose, and after preparing a surprise in case her investigations went wrong, began to circulate amongst those who sell farm goods, knowing that the quickest way to people's hearts is through their stomachs.

Retributive Spell: Whelm (using metamagic school focus to let me do it as a level 1 spell).

So whichever is most interesting, unless they're generally homogenous and lacking in ambition, in which case Selena will move on to the halfling.

[ToySoldierCPlus]

Nemo retires after finishing his meal, sleeping peacefully through the night. He wakes with the dawn, meditates, and then goes downstairs to find breakfast and, hopefully, his new companions.

[Black_Zawisza]

Lyude listens keenly to the apprentice's tanning monologue. Eventually, he requests to spend the night in their home and falls asleep. He awakens very late in the morning and rushes to the tavern, hoping that he wasn't late.

[Theoboldi]

Renlan looks slightly amused at the sight of the human hurrying into the tavern. "Good to see someone else was working tonight. Although we're probably both getting to old for the night-shifts." He calls for the barkeep, and orders another breakfeast. "I'll pay for this one. You probably haven't had the time to eat something yet, have you?"


3 silver removed for a common meal.
Also, has everyone shown up at breakfeast by now?

[Black_Zawisza]

"Heh. 'Fraid I didn't, buddy. The offer's appreciated." Lyude requests a mutton and cheese sandwich and a shot of whiskey from the barkeep. "Never was very good at getting up in the morning...I thought I might be the one holding errybody up, but looks like we're the early worms after all."

After a moment of thought, Lyude dips his sandwich in his whiskey and take a cautious bite. He enthusiastically proceeds to consume the rest of his meal in the same manner, while watching the doors for the next compadre to show up.

"Renlan, right? So what's your story? How'd you wind up in these backwaters?"

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

As you carefully step over the threshold and peer around, a patina of neglect and decay meets your eye. Timbers from the roof have settled to the floor on the left side of the house, bowing the floor downward, and water damage shows everywhere there. To the right, a broken table rests amid a puddle and wind blows through a broken window over a worn wooden countertop. You're pretty sure that over the ambient wind and water noises, you can hear a faint scratching or scurrying.


newBlazingAngel

OOC: All in prices are SRD standard, milk and oats would probably be a an average meal.


Al'lan Mandrag:

The main ambition of the tradespeople seems to be selling you their unimpressive wares, and appear to mostly live either in the town itself, or in one of the farms clumped up near the town's walls. They seem fairly little interested in leadership beyond the occasional one that wishes to hire an apprentice or the like.

The halfling introduces himself cheerfully as Skip Halfhand, and commenting that you seem an able worker, asks what you do.



Black Zawiswa:

Your night is peaceful and uneventful, and your new friends and you can break your fast on the remenents of last night's feast. The weather appears a bit cloudy, but otherwise well enough.


All:

Weather is cloudy, with the occasional scattered showers, but no strong winds or other adverse effects.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

"I do whatever is necessary." Selena replies mysteriously, "I have various useful skills, but what you want to ask is what I can do for you. This town is a backwater because no one has taken charge, no one is there to put the city on the map. Not just because it will improve all of your businesses, but it'll be good for the people. Do you think the empire would step in if you were invaded? Not now that's certain, but if you had something to offer them then you'd have safety and security!"

Selena included the man in what she hoped was a conspiratorial whisper: "You seem like you have charisma, and the strength necessary to lead. What do you say?"

Diplomacy check: [roll0]

OOC:
Not quite sure where this came from, but Selena has decided to use her charming skills to establish a PR business in a backwater fantasy town. Yes, this got surreal quickly.

[planswalker]

Jim will search for the source of the scratching noises, ready to burn it with fire if it attacks.

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar moves with his breakfast to join Renlan and Lyude. He's wearing the same clothes that he had last night, the weather stained cloak that conceals his weapons and armaments. The only difference being that the hood is drawn back, revealing a rugged face, that has seen it's share of hardships. "Welcome companions." He says in a fuller voice than the neutral tone he used the previous night.

[SandDemon]

Sacer

Entering into town unnoticed by most, Sacer takes stock of his surroundings. "Time to find out if this town will be suitable." He begins to make his way through town, taking note of his surroundings and tries to gather some intel about his new home and any inclinations towards his way of the Shadow.

Gather Information: [roll0]. Beyond the basics, just wondering what kind of knowledge there is within town of Shadow Magic.

[yugi24862]

Halon comes down from his room and joins Renlon and the other men at the table. He says to the strangers. " You adventurers aswell then? If your joining us, my names Halon."

[Tyndmyr]

Al'Lan Mandrag:


Selena sees a glint of greed and lust for power in his eyes as he responds "Well, 'course the place would be better off with someone competent in charge. Someone like me, sure." He pauses, looking a touch suspicious, before asking "So, what's your angle then? You after a percentage, most like?"


Planswalker:

As you poke carefully through the wreck, trying to locate the source of the noise, you glance down between the beams and see thousands of tiny eyes staring back at you in sets of eight. The wood comes alive as the arachnids swarm upward toward you. You also catch the slightest hint of something shiny gleaming in the depths beneath them.

Init:
Spider Swarm:[roll0]


SandDemon:

The townsfolks seem blissfully ignorant of the finer distinctions of magic. They don't seem to generally distinguish much beyond "religious folks from the temples" and "mages and such". They respect the power such folk wield, naturally, but none seem to have much inclination to investigate the arts beyond that.

[SandDemon]

Torak

Not having much luck, Torak is actually not surprised - those that understand true power are few and far between. Accepting the chances being slim, he knows his best chances might be at the local magic shops....but that's for another time - for now he was wasting his life away with the rabble when he clearly needed to find others like-minded. Survival works best in numbers.... and he wouldn't improve his art with commoners. Time to find sustenance!

Assuming he can figure out where the locals rabble over drinks, Torak will head on out to a tavern looking for adventurers.

[planswalker]

[roll0]

[roll1] reflex dc 13 half (overall minimum 1). [roll2] rounds. It will take d6 fire damage at the start of each of its turns that it is entangled for.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena laughs: "Your very perceptive. I like you already. Let's say that if I help you, I'd like help in return. But yes, I would require some sort of financial reward for my services." Selena found his blatant greed useful, but hoped she could make him more friendly towards her in the future.

"So to start. I'd like to know what you do exactly, how many people work for you, and what kind of organisational groups there are, official or unofficial, even if it's only the Builder's wives book club."

"Oh, and my name is Selena, Selena Trimaine."

[Tyndmyr]

SandDemon:
You easily find the Inn of Moderate Comfort, which has an adequate area for dining and drinking.

OOC: all the shops and things listed in the first post are public knowledge, and you can easily find your way to them all.

Planswalker:
You do indeed go first, and the spiders fail the reflex save and take an additional 3 rounds of damage on their turn. Despite their numbers being greatly lessened and entangled in burning webs...they're close enough to reach you and attack on this round. (feel free to AoO if you're holding a weapon that will damage them).

Attack: [roll0] dmg + DC 11 fort save vs [roll1] Str damage. In addition, make a DC 13 fort save vs nauseate on your round.


Al'Lan Mandrag


He grins knowingly as ask for gold. "Figured as much...people are always after coin. Me, I just organize the chopping of trees near the walls, sell a bit as lumber, some as firewood...the town gets by well enough on what I bring in, and how many folks I hire depends on demand. Try to get a few more folks chopping firewood before winter, of course. On a good day, maybe two dozen people are out handling wood.

As for organizations, ain't much. There's the empire, but after they founded this place, they just dropped the golems and left. I figure they mostly just wanted this place to exist so any monsters what cause problems hit us instead of them. Ain't like there's much trade out this way. Now, most of us tradesfolk know each other a bit. Ain't nothin' formal, but you got to know people to get anywhere in life. Once or twice, some sprightly young chap will pull out a sword and try to force people into line or some such, but the golems zap him right quick, and that's the end of it."

[planswalker]

[roll0]

[roll1]

The spiders take an aditional [roll2] damage. Jim will blast them with fire again for [roll3].

Jim spends his turn retching at the image of flaming spiders crawling all over his face.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

Fortunately for Jim, the residual fire gets to the remaining spiders, and one by one, they all fall from him to the ground, burning to tiny crisps as they fall(5 damage to them).

[planswalker]

With the spiders gone, Jim sticks his hand in the hole and tries to get ahold of the shiny.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

Peeking out from under the grime, you find some kind of cut, pretty yellow stone. Looks like it might be worth at least something.

[planswalker]

Satisfied, he'll pocket the stone and continue to poke around the house for a while. If nothing else interesting turns up, he'll continue on his way.

[SandDemon]

Since Torak just entered the Inn of Moderate Comfort, who all is there right now? Are Rignar, Selena, etc there?

[al'Lan Mandrag]

(Selena isn't in the inn at the moment)

Selena nods towards Skip. "Well it would seem like you already have a starting point. I have a number of ideas about how we can help each other. I've found this conversation most enlightening. Join me at the Inn of moderate comfort tonight, and we can discuss this further."

Selena left the man, content with her beginning. It looked like these other business men lacked the ambition needed to bring them power, so she would have to herd them, a bit like cattle. There were two big motivators Selena found, greed and fear: she'd found her greedy little halfling, now she just needed something to cause a bit of fear. Wondering what was most likely to scare the city, she headed to the magister's tower, in the hopes of finding an aged librarian to discuss her new magical interests with.
Just before she entered, she ducked into an alleyway and wove a spell of deceit about herself, changing her young appearance to an older one.
A woman in her fifties, with reddish cheeks and still golden hair left the alleyway, headed towards the tower with a determined gait.

Cast Disguise Self. Level 1.

[rorikdude12]

Fedris Kellen walks around, having entered through the North Gate in the hope of adventure, along with an eventual fortune. He walks into the Inn of Moderate Comfort and spends a few hours trying to look for rumors of jobs, or monster outposts, or monsters in general.

Taking ten on Gather information, and I'm taking [roll0] hours.

[SandDemon]

Torak

Noticing the man entering the Inn of Moderate Comfort, Torak turns to Fedris Kellen and greets him fairly amiably. "Greetings traveler - it seems we're both new to the establishment. Perhaps it is in our best interest to join forces? Much more can be accomplished....assuming you can hold up your end." That last part seemed like it was intended to be a playful pun but his eyes are obviously scanning for a strong individual and not dead weight. At the end after a pause, Torak holds out his hand, "The name's Torak."

[rorikdude12]

Fedris looks at Torak. After the pause, he leaves his hand alone.

"That sounds like a decent idea. I think I can hold up 'my end'. Do you have anything in mind in terms of things to do or accomplish?"

[SandDemon]

Torak

Torak smiles faintly at the declined handshake. "Your guess is as good as mine, just got here myself. There has to be something out there that needs doing....let's combine our efforts and look for something to accomplish." After another pause, he asks "And your name.....or is that to be withheld as well?"

[rorikdude12]

Torak

Torak smiles faintly at the declined handshake. "Your guess is as good as mine, just got here myself. There has to be something out there that needs doing....let's combine our efforts and look for something to accomplish." After another pause, he asks "And your name.....or is that to be withheld as well?"

Fedris stares at him coldly. "Kellen. I'd tell you what friends call me, but you don't seem to be a friend yet. I'll tell you when I find a lead."

Fedris continues his three hours of searching.

[Theoboldi]

"Well, I used to be a guardsman back in the more civilized parts. But it never seemed to be quite the right work for me." Renlan looks deep into his mug, obviously disgruntled at talking about his past. "It's a dangerous job, and it always seemed like I was the only one who actually wanted to help the people we were arresting. More often than not, the other guards left no, or only few survivors. And don't get me started on the guard-golems. Mindless, horrid automatons! So I came here. So I could do things my way."

He bites into another turnip, calming down slightly. He is visibly embarrassed. "Excuse me, I lost my temper there for a second. It won't happen again."

Not noticing Halon, he waits for Lyude's response.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

Your poking about uncovers nothing additional of note.


SandDemon:

Pretty open ended as far as who's there...you can generally assume that moving about town at will is fair game without needing DM input or the like, and we're not worrying about in-game time overmuch.


Al'Lan Mandrag:

" 'allo, madam, name's Arty, whatcha be needin' today?" says the crusty looking mage as you enter the Magisters Tower. Behind a clear panel, you can see a few scrolls available for purchase, and there's a little study within which scroll copying takes place.


Rorikdude:

You know of all the public locations in town, and you hear an elderly gentleman muttering about the new folk comin' into town of late. "Damned adventurers, most like. When I was a lad, hard work and a trade was the way to get ahead, not this muckin' about in the woods, hopin' to come across some ancient treasure"

[rorikdude12]

When Fedris encounters the old man, he strides up to him quickly.

"Do you know where any of them might be? Adventurers, that is."

[planswalker]

Jim will leave the old house and continue on his way.

[Tyndmyr]

rorikdude:

He wags his finger at you while saying, "Positively infesting the inn, they are! In and out, all day. My guess is they'll soon wander off into the woods and never be heard from again, though. Always happens soon enough, then we can get on in peace."

Planswalker:


OOC: Almost forgot xp...+300 xp for the spider swarm.

Further east, behind the house(where rolling hills are visible) or further south, into the forest?

[planswalker]

d'oh, I had forgotten.

Jim will head deeper into the forest.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:


The very edge of the forest has a few saplings growing round it's edges, with not much in the way of brush. As you step into the forest, a quietness settles over you. The thick underbrush is cut well back from the trail, and large, thick trees loom overhead. The occasional bird call can be heard throughout the trees, and the trail continues to the south. Smaller dirt trails wend off to both the east and west, though no sign indicates what awaits in either path. It does look like someone once attempted to board up the path to the west, but the boards have mostly fallen off the trees.

[planswalker]

Deciding that exciting things are more likely on the west path, he takes that one.

[rorikdude12]

Fedris walks up to Torak.

"We have our job. Stay outside the inn and keep watch for people who look like adventurers. We can group up with them and go for some adventuring from there."

[Black_Zawisza]

"Think nothing of it, brother. Forget not that some circumstances justify righteous anger - violent expression of it, even. That's something many of my ecclesiastical brethren have difficulty understanding." Lyude's face saddens for a moment, but perks up at the words of the two newcomers to the conversation. "Well, this has been quite a test of my patience! When on earth were you planning on getting here? Hmm...Halon, and...Rignar, correct? Good morning!"

He stands and reaches out to shake each of their hands. "I'm ready to shove off, I think. How about we leave a message with the barkeep, that anyone who comes here askin' for adventurer types is to be told we're headed east and anyone who wants to join us is welcome?" Without waiting for a response, he stands up and does precisely that.

[SandDemon]

Fedris walks up to Torak.

"We have our job. Stay outside the inn and keep watch for people who look like adventurers. We can group up with them and go for some adventuring from there."

Torak

Torak looks fairly surprised at Fedris' statement. "Wait, we're just going to wait here for others? Seems pretty...dependent. Why not just go out a bit ourselves and see how it goes?"

[rorikdude12]

Torak

Torak looks fairly surprised at Fedris' statement. "Wait, we're just going to wait here for others? Seems pretty...dependent. Why not just go out a bit ourselves and see how it goes?"

"We have no idea where to go. If you just want to explore, that's fine. I just thought you were looking for treasure. Off we go then. I'll follow you."

[Theoboldi]

Renlan stands up with Lyude. "Yes. Let's just leave a message for other people. It's a about time we left town."

Quickly checking his possesions and adjusting his backpack, he follows him, ready to hit the road.

[SandDemon]

Lyude and Renlan probably going to run into Torak and Fedris outside?

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:


You manage to find your way down an overgrown path, with no sign of life, after scrambling over the shoddy attempt at a barricade.

After a bit of following the winding trail through the eerily quiet woods, you catch sight of a broken down keep, with a wall surrounding it that's fallen into disrepair, a single broken tower jutting skyward next to a gate that fell down years ago.



You four:

Oh yeah, you all run into each other outside the tavern.

[planswalker]

Jim will walk straight up to the gate and take a peek inside.

[SandDemon]

Torak

Watching the two leave the Inn, Torak makes an attempt to greet them as they head out. "Hello fellow travelers, my acquaintance and myself here were just actually going to head although we've been looking for more to join us for a little adventuring." With an honest smile, he bows his head slightly. "My name is...perhaps we could head out together? Why not, what's the worse that could happen..."orse that could happen..." Realizing this could be seen badly, Torak kind of muffles the rest as he smiles.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena smiles warmly towards the man in front of her. "I need to talk to a magister, I have a 'problem' that needs dealing with, and well, I always heard that you were the most powerful mages in the city. I knew I'd need the cleverest one for this thing you see."

Bluff: [roll0]
Diplomacy: [roll1]

[Theoboldi]

Noticing the two strangers, and especially the weapons they carry with them, Renlan seems slightly concerned. "We are adventurers, yes. I don't know about travelling with the likes of you, though." He points at their weapons. "You are carrying those because you want to defend yourself in the wilds, don't you? Let me inform you that, if you want to travel with us, those will have to stay in their sheaths for most of the time. I will not tolerate reckless use of them."

[rorikdude12]

Noticing the two strangers, and especially the weapons they carry with them, Renlan seems slightly concerned. "We are adventurers, yes. I don't know about travelling with the likes of you, though." He points at their weapons. "You are carrying those because you want to defend yourself in the wilds, don't you? Let me inform you that, if you want to travel with us, those will have to stay in their sheaths for most of the time. I will not tolerate reckless use of them."

"That can be arranged. But be warned, I will slay our enemies in combat by weapon, not with magic."

[Theoboldi]

"I would prefer people not to be slain at all, whenever possible. I don't care if you use magic or steel to cause unnecesarry deaths. Of course, I understand that you have no other choice. What else are you supposed to do with weapons but murder? Even the greatest knight in the kingdom wouldn't be able to save a life by swinging his sword at it."
He glares at Fedris for a second, but calms his expression quickly.

"I suppose you could manage to at least save our lifes by swinging those daggers of yours. If you show decency in your ability to judge when to stab something, then working together can prove valuable for both of us."

[rorikdude12]

"I would prefer people not to be slain at all, whenever possible. I don't care if you use magic or steel to cause unnecesarry deaths. Of course, I understand that you have no other choice. What else are you supposed to do with weapons but murder? Even the greatest knight in the kingdom wouldn't be able to save a life by swinging his sword at it."
He glares at Fedris for a second, but calms his expression quickly.

"I suppose you could manage to at least save our lifes by swinging those daggers of yours. If you show decency in your ability to judge when to stab something, then working together can prove valuable for both of us."

Fedris looks very sad, almost as though he would cry, despite the rest of him looking like a hardened warrior.

"These daggers aren't for swinging. I am a warrior. A warrior carries weapons and carries himself in such a manner that he might avoid violent conflict. A warrior is truly to protect, not to kill. Deaths are always to be avoided, and your impressions of me based on my tools designed to primarily intimidate potential attackers... Well, I don't want to travel with a bigot who thinks anyone trained for combat enjoys it."

[Theoboldi]

Renlan flinches back at Fedris' words, clearly hit. He stays quiet for a few seconds.

"I am sorry for my harsh words. If you truly avoid killing wherever you can, and seek to subdue your foes rather than harm then, then I have judged you too quickly. I have found better ways to protect people, but I forgot how difficult it can be for those without any sorts of magical abilities. I'm sorry. Can you accept my apology?"

[rorikdude12]

Renlan flinches back at Fedris' words, clearly hit. He stays quiet for a few seconds.

"I am sorry for my harsh words. If you truly avoid killing wherever you can, and seek to subdue your foes rather than harm then, then I have judged you too quickly. I have found better ways to protect people, but I forgot how difficult it can be for those without any sorts of magical abilities. I'm sorry. Can you accept my apology?"

Fedris almost smiles, but contains himself.

"Gladly. Let us be off."

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar remains wordless through the exchange, choosing to lean against the tavern wall until they finish. With his hood drawn again, his face is cloaked and any armaments are hidden. He follows the group wherever it may go.

[Black_Zawisza]

Lyude walks his cane a bit ahead of the group, determined to not prove himself a burden physically. He proceeds past the city gates due east, occasionally checking behind him for his new friends.

[Theoboldi]

Renlan turns towards Rignar. About those kobolds you mentioned yesterday, where do we need to go? It's about time we get going."

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:


As you do so, you see inside that a rough wooden door closed on the tower, and crudely barred shut with a stick shoved through the handle. In addition, there's a burned out bonfire pit in the center of the small courtyard, and a somewhat beaten path leads into the keep's gaping, unprotected open doorway, the doors of which look to have vanished years ago. In addition, a fainter path leads around to the back of the keep.

Javelin Attack: [roll0](resolve against flat footed)
Damage: [roll1]

A heretofore concealed goblin behind you in a tree hurls a javelin at you as you peer inside, but as you glance back, he's clearly exposed now, reaching for another javelin and whooping a war cry.

Al'Lan Mandrag:

The elderly fellow smiles warmly at Selena, and replies "Thanks for your compliments, lass. We do alright for ourselves here, and we're clever enough to avoid the hustle and bustle of big city life, I suppose. What can I help you with?"


East Gate Party:


The road outside of town is cobbled for only a short distance outside of town, becoming a well beaten path. It leads over a remarkably solid, large stone bridge, upon which a young lad is fishing off of. Immediately afterward, the path splits into three.

[planswalker]

Jim takes the scratch without a grunt.

"Clever." He says. "Allow me to show you my trick."

A line of entangling flame hits the goblin.

half of [roll0] and entangles for [roll1] rounds. Each turn, it takes d6 damage while entangled.

[rorikdude12]

Fedris stops.

"What are you doing here, boy? It's dangerous out here. Especailly if you go alone. What is your name?"

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar moves to examine the stream, watching the water and fish pass.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena, conscious she won't have long in her disguise, tries to approach the man in a conspiratorial fashion. "My family has a serious problem, my husband is a woodsman, but there is something out in the woods that has attacked him, and scared all of the game away: we are struggling to feed ourselves and our children. So I went there yesterday, since I have a little magic of my own, but the creature was resistant to my spells: it is some monstrous stone construct. I was hoping you would be able to give me a spell or item I could use to stop it, before it hurts more people."

Bluff: [roll0]

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

The goblin teeters a bit as the force of impact hits him. You see his arms flail a bit as he tries to catch his balance, but the flames do him no favors, and he plummets to the earth. A painful sounding muffled thud accompanies his dissapearance into the underbrush.

From ahead, you hear movement in a few places, probably alerted by his cry. Certainly at least some hubbub is coming from the main keep enterance, and you hear the sound of something large moving in the castle.

+100 xp.


Rorikdude12:

The lad says "My name's Little George, and me mum said it was ok to fish here, long as I didn't get in the water, or go exploring or nothin'. Oh, and to be back home well before sunset, on account of the barrow-wights, but my friend Abel claims he's been out here at night, and they never come this far. She's a worrier, me mum is, sure enough."


newBlazingAngel:

You hear the lad respond to your comrade's query with "My name's Little George, and me mum said it was ok to fish here, long as I didn't get in the water, or go exploring or nothin'. Oh, and to be back home well before sunset, on account of the barrow-wights, but my friend Abel claims he's been out here at night, and they never come this far. She's a worrier, me mum is, sure enough."

The river seems to be teeming with life, with minnows darting this way and that, and large fish lazily swimming along up the stream, one of them looking like he's considering the lad's bait. None of the things seem to be swimming underneath the bridge itself, though, they mostly seem to stop a couple feet away from it.


Al'Lan Mandrag:

The fellow looks quite concerned, and replies, "Oh dear, I fear that might be some sort of golem or construct, perhaps. Is your husband alright? The woods are dreadfully dangerous, with all manner of things out there. I'm afraid I don't have any items that might be of help against them...but you'll be safe in the city. Nothing comes in here on account of our golems. I could, I suppose, forget to charge you for copying a spell, if you see anything in our list that's of help. And, if you could provide any information as to the type of golem or thing it was, perhaps I might be able to research what exactly it is."

[planswalker]

Jim will call out, "The name is Jim Dandee, destroyer of worlds. Dare you to face me in combat?" Bravado never hurt. [roll0]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena looked at the man gratefully: "Thank you so much, I guess I'll have to remain in the city, but my husband needs those woods to earn a living." Selena gives the man a description that matches anything she knows about the golems that patrol the city, although obviously without any insignia, and darkened by plants/foliage/detritus from the woods.

She moves to the scroll cabinet and attempts to copy a Scroll of Identify: "Perhaps I can use this to find out more about the creature." She states naively.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

Three goblins pile out of the main doorway, looking entirely undaunted. The lead one points at you with his spear and bellows in response to your challenge. Behind him, his two compatriots fiddle with crude shortbows and wicked, jagged tipped arrows.

You definitely hear more noise behind them as well, looks like there's a whole warren of the buggers.

If you speak goblin:

Die, tresspasser!


Init:
Spear Goblin: [roll0]
Bow Goblin #1: [roll1]
Bow Goblin #2: [roll2]


Al'Lan Mandrag:

The mage makes no attempt to prevent her from copying the scroll, but his brow wrinkles with concern. "I don't know if that'll help you lass. That sounds like a pretty big problem indeed. I don't suppose you could cut the trees somewhere else until it goes away?"

OOC: standard ink/component prices are necessary to actually make the scroll, but there's no fee for the copy itself.

[planswalker]

Jim will respond in their language with "No, it is your turn to die."

[roll0]

[al'Lan Mandrag]

So would there be supplies there that Selena could pay him for? Or should she come back with them?

She smiles sadly: "Unfortunately it's his whole livelihood and he hunts there as well: lots of his equipment is stored there as well, and it would take months to fully relocate his craft." Selena hoped that the old man would know little of hunting and woodscraft and that he would be convinced by this.

[rorikdude12]

"Barrow wights? Where and what are these, George?"

[newBlazingAngel]

Rignar steps off the bridge, and tries to get a better look at the underside of it.

[roll0]

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

The spearman charges at you confidently, whooping as he does so.
Attack: [roll0]
Dmg: [roll1]

Following his lead, the two archers stand their ground and loose arrows at you, reloading swiftly from their quivvers and readying another volley.
Attack: [roll2]
Dmg: [roll3]
Attack: [roll4]
Dmg: [roll5]


Nobody else has arrived as of yet, but the footsteps sound closer, practically on top of you.


Al'Lan Mandrag:

His concern is palpable, and he seems most worried as he urges the utmost caution against going back to the same area, at least.

OOC: Supplies are available and plentiful, or you could come back later, if you preferred. He rolled a nat 1 on sense motive. =)


Rorikdude:

The kid's eyes brighten, and he eagerly relates what he knows. "Well, I ain't never seen 'em, but Abel said he did, and everyone knows there's horrible things out there. Me mum told me that they're horrible dead things that come out at night from the hummocks on the plain out thataway", he says, waving generally to the east. "She says they'll get you for sure if you're out at night, or if you don't clean your plate at dinner. Ain't no way to fight 'em either, she says. Sticks and stones just go right through em, and then they eat you allll up." He grins as he finishes his story, clearly relishing his chance to share his knowledge.

NewBlazingAngel

As you explore, you hear the kid continuing to chatter: "Well, I ain't never seen 'em, but Abel said he did, and everyone knows there's horrible things out there. Me mum told me that they're horrible dead things that come out at night from the hummocks on the plain out thataway. She says they'll get you for sure if you're out at night, or if you don't clean your plate at dinner. Ain't no way to fight 'em either, she says. Sticks and stones just go right through em, and then they eat you allll up."

The bridge hangs low over the water...it's quite thick, really, now think about it, even for a stone bridge. You can barely see under it at all, but by putting your head barely above the water, you can peer underneath, where you see a set of green, roughly human-sized eyes balefully staring back at you.

[planswalker]

Deciding that maybe attacking a fortified goblin encampment head-on wasn't so smart, Jim will breathe and entangling exhalation of fire on the leader and begin a hasty retreat.

[roll0] rounded down, min 1. If damage is dealt, entangle for [roll1] rounds. Each round, foe takes d6 fire damage on their turn.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena copies the scroll and leaves him a couple of silvers for the ink and parchment, thanking him heartily. "I hope you can think of something.. Oh I'm sorry, I never did ask your name. I'm Marta, Marta Greenhill." After finding his name she bids him farewell and hurries off with the scroll.

That could have gone better she mused, when in the open and once again resuming her normal form. At least I have a contact there now, but if I'm going to get these people to band together behind a leader, then I need something that will give them cause to fear, something that will show them the Empire's protection is not enough.

She paused. Whilst that mage is coming up with a Golem-slaying spell, maybe I should find out what else is around this place, perhaps if I hurry I can find those men who were planning on leaving town...

Selena heads to the Inn, hoping to catch up to the other adventurer types. If she doesn't see them there, then she asks the barkeep if he knows anything of them and their whereabouts.

[rorikdude12]

"Thank you, George. You have been most helpful." Fedris looks to his companions. "Well, shall we go after the wights or was something else planned?"

[newBlazingAngel]

"That sounds fine and dandy, although I believe I've found something of more immediate interest. Come and have a look.

[Theoboldi]

"What is it? Is everything alright?"

Renlan makes his way towards Rignar, hoping that whatever he found is a good thing.


If the being tries to attack anyone while withine 20 ft of me, DC 12 will save, on failure he's affected by a calm emotion spell.

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

Too distracted by trying to wipe the burning goo from himself to even take an AoO, you can hear the goblin sizzling behind you as dash into the safety of the trees, an arrow flying uncomfortably close to you along the way. Fortunately, you quickly outrun these slower types. The path and crossroads look as empty as before.

+100 xp. +racial unlock: goblin


Al'lan Mandrag:

"Name's Arty, lass, and yknow, I suspect I do have an idea...an orb of some sort of energy, mayhaps. I've got much to do. Best of luck to you!"

The inn doesn't appear to have any adventurers at first glance(OOC: I think they've all left, but feel free to discuss with them in OOC thread to arrange a meeting if desired), but the gnomish merchant you spoke with before is there, having a drink and a meal. The barkeep responds with "There was a couple of 'em here a few minutes ago...talking about teaming up or some such, I don't usually pay adventuring types any mind. I don't know which way they went, but they can't have gotten far."


East Gate Party:

Upon coming over and following Rignar's gaze, you see, shrouded in the shadow under the bridge, an unmistakable pair of green eyes. They blink once, then slide underneath the water.

For reference, the bridge is made of stone, is immensely large and solid considering the river is only thirty feet wide and slow moving at this point, but hangs fairly low over the water. No other trees or cover of note are in the immediate area.

[planswalker]

Planswalker:

Too distracted by trying to wipe the burning goo from himself to even take an AoO, you can hear the goblin sizzling behind you as dash into the safety of the trees, an arrow flying uncomfortably close to you along the way. Fortunately, you quickly outrun these slower types. The path and crossroads look as empty as before.

+100 xp. +racial unlock: goblin


Deciding that perhaps that path was a little TOO exciting, Jim heads down the other branch of the fork.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena nodded to the barkeep, thanking him, and strolled over to the merchant, wondering if he'd seen anything, and if he hadn't she could still make some use of this meeting.

"Hello friend. I'm just passing through, but you wouldn't happen to have seen a group of adventurers leaving here? Wouldn't know where they were headed?"

[SandDemon]

Torak

Calling out loudly enough so the boy can hear him, Torak says "Boy, its best time you get home - don't question it, it's not safe anymore. Tell your parents and don't visit this bridge no more." Turning to his companions, Torak looks into the water cautiously from a distance and says "So....what was that?"

[Tyndmyr]

Planswalker:

OOC: assuming you mean the other branch, not continuing on the main trail.

You wander down the trail for a bit, hearing songbirds chirping back and forth, and occasional patches of sunlight filter down through the large, dense trees. Undergrowth seems sparser in this part of the woods, with bare patches at the base of most trees, and wildlife definitely seems less used to people. Off to your left, you hear an occasional shriek in the distance.


Al'Lan Mandrag:

The wee fellow glances up and says "oh, sure, some fellow came through this morning. Practically running, he was. Might have been an adventurer, I dunno, but he left out the south gate and ain't been back."



SandDemon:

The kid looks a bit disappointed, but shrugs, reels in his line, and shuffles off toward town.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Just one adventurer doesn't sound right Selena mused, but still, it wasn't as though she needed those specific adventurers: if he'd found something South of the city, she'd do well to find it as well. And one man was a lot easier to manipulate then a whole group.

Selena grabbed her kit and headed to the south gate, hurrying as fast as she could, and knowing it would take a great deal of haste to catch up with this man if the gnome's words were true.

When she reaches the gate she asks any guards if they saw the hasty adventurer, and if they know the direction in which he was headed.

[planswalker]

Jim will investigate the shriek, hoping for a lovely maiden in distress but expecting it to just be a mockingbird.

[rorikdude12]

Torak

Calling out loudly enough so the boy can hear him, Torak says "Boy, its best time you get home - don't question it, it's not safe anymore. Tell your parents and don't visit this bridge no more." Turning to his companions, Torak looks into the water cautiously from a distance and says "So....what was that?"

Fedris shakes his head. "I have no idea."

[Theoboldi]

Renlan tries to remember if he ever heard of any water-inhabiting, green-eyed creatures. "Whatever it was, I hope it isn't gone already. He seemed more scared than dangerous to me."



[roll0] know local

[newBlazingAngel]

"But the fish feel a need to avoid it for some reason. That's never a good sign." Rignar stated. Although he doesn't do anymore than to continue his staring at the creature.

[Black_Zawisza]

"Well, I don't expect whatever you saw to be returning anytime soon. I suggest we press onward," Lyude says. He sits up, leaning on his staff as he does so, walks to the fork in the road, and ventures the path on the right.

[rorikdude12]

Fedris follows Lyude.

[Tyndmyr]

Al'Lan Mandrag:

"Oh yeah...just came jogging through here like he was in some kind of hurry, took off down the road, ain't come back yet", says the guard, pointing off down the path leading out of town.


Planswalker:

Deeper in the woods, as the trees grow thicker and taller, you come across a rocky outcropping jutting out of the side of a hill...underneath, you see a natural cavern, the front of which is dotted with a few four foot high, purple topped mushrooms. The back of the cave is not visible, but you see what looks like a rusted sword near the cavern mouth and...is that a skeletal hand wrapped around it still?


Theoboldi

Well, you're aware that elves occasionally live out in the wilds...not good, civilized elves like you've met in the city, but their wilder cousins. Your knowledge of biology indicates that humanoid populations eventually adapt to their environment...perhaps these are an aquatic variant?


East Gate Party


Following the path to the right for some time, you see half a dozen holes off to your left that appear somewhat larger than badger holes...and one of them looks like it's got some dirt kicked up near the entrance. Slightly farther along, to the right of the path, you can see an old wayfarer's shanty. In addition, just after the holes, there's a curiously long indention in the ground leading to the road....as if a well traveled road once existed there, but grass had grown back over it.

[planswalker]

Cautious, Jim will approach the giant fungi and poke one of them.

[al'Lan Mandrag]

Selena nodded to the guard and headed off down the road in pursuit. She made sure to watch out for any sign of the man as she hastened after him, but found herself absorbed in the web of plots that sprung to mind.

Spot: [roll0]

[Theoboldi]

Renlan slowly moves up to the holes, careful not to accidently step into one. He peaks his head over the entrance of the most recently dug looking one, trying to see what's inside.

"Quite interesting. I wonder what animal could have left these? They look strangely big."

[rorikdude12]

Fedris walks cautiously up to the shanty.