[D&D 4E] Threats to the Nentir Vale (IC)

[Hircine]

The last week of adventuring has been particularly unrelenting for the party. Happening upon that overturned caravan along the trade road set events in motion. Inside a hidden compartment of the lead wagon was a strange puzzlebox of dwarven craftsmanship. Unsure of what to do with the artifact it is decided that the group should transport it to Hammerfast for study.

Travel along the road was particularly grueling as the party was set upon by bandits, kobolds, and even a family of young drakes.

Upon arriving in Hammerfast the party was instructed to bring the object to the Lore Guild for study. You were rewarded handsomely by the guild's leader, Geld Seekingstone, who promised to share any developments with your group.

The return trip was more exhausting than harrowing for the party. You arrive rather beaten down and in serious need of rest and relaxation. Several days are spent recuperating and soaking up the local atmosphere at the Nentir Inn. On your fourth day back in town everyone wakes up early and files downstairs for breakfast.

It's fairly empty save for a couple of regulars, a handful of dock workers that are eating rather noisily at the counter, and a pair of off duty guards who are nursing ales in the far corner of the room. Serim Selduzar, a tiefling expatriate noble from the south, whom the group has spoken to on several occasions, raises his mug.

The proprietor, Erandil Zemoar, looks up from swapping mugs as the party descends into the taproom. "What can I get for you all this morning?", he calls from across the room.

OOC: Thornin Anvilshield
If you're looking for work you may wish to speak with a pair of acquaintances you met in Hammerfast some years back. The old dwarves Teldorthan and Sergeant Murgeddin may be found at the Blue Moon Alehouse, Wizard's Gate, or Teldorthan’s Arms.

OOC: Lannval Grymfriar
You've heard whispers from close friends in the guard that Captain Nathan Faringray has his men on a rather hush, hush assignment. The Captain will be found either at the town barracks or on the outskirts of town.

OOC: Everyone
Feel free to converse amongst yourselves about your previous adventure or about your plans for the day.

OOC: Fallcrest Map
http://knightsoffallcrest.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/fallcrest.jpg

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen already has her armor on and her bundle of javelins strapped to her back when she shakes Jessica awake at the crack of dawn. As the girl goes through her morning routine Sen repeatedly gestures towards the door, as if to hurry her along, but doesn't offer any more explanation until they leave the room. When they meet up with the men of the party in the hallway, and before they head downstairs, Sen opens the green pack that is tied at her waist and produces from it a thin black slate. While over the past week of adventuring she had managed to teach her companions a few simple hand signs--they had worked out quick things that were useful in the thick of battle--she still had to write on the slate to communicate most of the time. Now she held it out to the others, revealing a message that was already written on it.

"RESTLESS," the scribble on the slate reads. "GO SOMEWHERE?"

When they descend the stairs, she stays behind the bigger Lann and Arakai, as if trying to hide from the strangers in the common room. When Erandil calls out to them, though, she perks up a bit, and taps Lann on the shoulder. She takes out her slate again, hastily wipes it clean, and then, fumbling with the chalk for a moment, scribbles a new message on it and holds it up to him. "EGG!"

[18th Avenger]

With what felt like most of his party behind him, Lannval Grymfriar, or Lann as they know him, is first down the stairs. Tall, brawny and freshly clean-shaven, his presence fills the room like the rays of morning sunshine.

He raises a hand in greeting to the tiefling noble before turning to the barman. "A fine morning, if I do say so myself. It's a good place you run here, Dil." Lann called the barman by his nickname like any old regular. He rubbed his clean jaw. "Needed that shave for a while now."

"As for breakfast, get my friends whatever they want." He feels a touch on his shoulder and stoops to read what Sen had written down on her writing slate. Lann nodded at the request. "That means two plates of eggs. one for Sen here and another for me. Don't forget the bacon and a tankard of small beer!" The grin on his face was bright and brilliant. "Not good to have the hard stuff this early." He turned to the others. "Come now, don't be shy!"

He led his party over to one of the wider tables. The big warlord spotted the pair of guards and thought he recognized them. Lann recalled what he'd heard from a couple of gate guards the other day and gestured for the barmaid. He whispered some instructions to the curvy young woman and slipped her a gold coin. A few minutes later, a refill was borne to Serim and the two guards in their corner. Lann only grinned and raised his tankard when they turned to him.

[onlie2005]

Having travelled and been on the road for almost half her short life, Jessica was used not so tired or overwhelmed by the past 2 weeks of adventuring. She was a girl, for a studious one that is, that seemed to thrive on adventuring. The girl was no ranger but she was at home in the wilderness and could stay there as much as she could stay in an inn. Still she was glad for the warm bed and meal and a roof over her head for the past few days.

Jessica herself was an early riser, although not too early as Sen. She looks at Sen curiously as she hurries up to change. The girl just shrugs at Sen's need to get moving. Although Jessica was starting to get bored. As she headed downstairs she politely asked the barkeeper for some scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage and a glass of cow's milk. Then she sits at the table and opens her spellbook to study a new set of spells for the day. She lets the adults decide the next course of action and simply listens in.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Avilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin woke up in a haze, as he normally does, and realized he didn't quite make it to the bed the night before. He was propped up against the bed, still in his armor, and rubbed his eyes. He took the pitcher of water from the tables next to him, took a long drink, then splashed the rest over his face and head. He took a towel from the same dresser and wiped up the excess water, picked up his things, and went downstairs.

When he came downstairs he grunted a hello at the others and sat down at the bar. All he said to the question from Erandil was, "Ale". He pulled out some jerky from his pack and munched on that while he wated for his ale to come. When Erandil set the mug down, Thornin get his attention, shakes his head, and says, "Bigger". Erandil gives him a look, takes the ale away, and bring a much bigger one. Thornin nods, and starts drinking on his ale.

[Solinvitus]

Left with neither love nor friendship at home, after his grandfather's death, Arakai decided to leave the tribe and headed toward Fallcrest, in search of his parents and adventures. He had no idea if his parents were still alive but he swore to find them. If not, at least, it was time for him to craft his own path and experienced a world, hopefully, vastly different from where he came from.

The half orc is please so far with the group he has been working with for the past weeks. The first taste of respect, after all those years of disdain from his own tribe, was an addictive experience for him, which interrupted his habitual, withdrawn and rowdy behaviors; he opened up more to his mates. He trusted them- something that he reserved only for his grandfather.

Somethings have changed within him. The half orc sat at the table eating a hearty breakfast, reflecting his recent experiences while waiting for his mates. When he saw Sen, he let off an aloft greeting and invitation, " Goo mornin...SEN...have some good eat... with Arakai?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Knowing by now that Thornin tends to be abrasive (at best) in the mornings, Sen gives the dwarf a wide berth as the group goes about breakfast. While waiting for the food to come she hovers over Jessica's shoulder and peeks at her books, but quickly loses interest when she realizes they're just more of that magicky stuff that she can't read--even though she recognizes all the little symbols, the way they go together just doesn't seem to make any sense. Finally she takes her plate of food and sits with Arakai, nodding at his suggestion to eat--the half-orc's love of food is one of the simple pleasures she can relate to much more easily than Jessica's strange books and Lann's clever conversations with people. Sen hunches over her plate and scarfs down her food loudly, as messy as any of the burliest, beardiest men the innkeeper has ever seen.

[Hircine]

A while after placing your orders a serving girl emerges from the kitchen carrying a large tray of food and drink. Carefully she sets down plates and mugs for each of you before hastily moving to check on other patrons.

Both guards are shocked by the refill but gladly drink down the additional ale. When Lann raises his tankard the men look over and raise their mugs in appreciation.

The tiefling, Serim slides out of his chair and sidles over to the group. "Despite my wealth I've never been one to turn down a free drink. Thank you kindly, Lann.", he says with a nod of his horned head. "So I noticed you've been hanging around town a bit longer than usual, work must of dried up, eh?

Insight DC 12
He is studying each of you intently, prying for information.

OOC: Thornin, Lann
Are you going to share what I told you with the others? I'm just curious.

[18th Avenger]

Lann grinned up at the tiefling. Though it was pretty obvious what Serim was doing, the big warrior gave no sign. He took a big gulp of his small ale.

"We're actually in between jobs, Serim," Lann used his given name familiarly. "In fact, I believe we're about to look up our first reference now. 'Scuse me."

With a polite nod, Lann took a bite off a bacon strip and rose to walk over to the two guards, mug in hand. "Watch the table, Sen." said Lann.

If a certain mute ranger had been watching, she might have recognized the following sign as the redheaded warrior brought the tankard to his lips before he left.

"Nosy watcher."
Without any preamble, Lann took a seat right next to the guard on the left. "For the record, I did offer to pay for the washing of his clothes after the incident with those seamstresses." He grinned at them. "You boys think Faringray's in a mood to see me this morning?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen catches Lann's sign as he gets up. She winks, impressed that he's picked up so many signs already. When Lann asks her to watch the table, she nods, and puts her arms around her plate of food protectively.

She looks over at Serim. Lacking Lann's sense of tact, she puffs up her cheeks and sticks her tongue out at the tiefling.

[Hircine]

Serim rubs his left horn, not quite sure what to make of the mute's gesture. "Well - I suppose I'll just head back to my table.", declares the tiefling while pointing his thumb back to where he had been sitting previously. "If things don't work out I might have an enterprising opportunity for some daring adventurers.", Serim hints with a sly grin as he shuffles back across the taproom.

Both guardsmen set their beverages down, turning to focus on the newcomer. The burly guard leans in close to get a better look at Lann. "Sorry friend, I don't think we've met before.", he exclaims while scratching his unkempt beard.

His hook nosed compatriot cranes his head, speaking in a low accusatory tone. "The more pertinent question is why you're so interested in speaking with the captain?"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
After downing 2 more ales, Thornin gets a forth one and walks over to the table with his allies. "If'in we be needin' yer help, we will come find ya', pointy." Thornin then turns to his people, "I be knowin' a couple 'o guys that might be able to throw some work our way. Finish up here, an' we will go an' try to find 'em."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
As Serim hints about his "enterprising opportunity", Sen looks on wide-eyed, not a glimmer of understanding crossing her face. When Thornin appears and responds to the tiefling, she breathes a sigh of relief, happy to see that she won't be responsible for passing the tiefling's message on to the others.

At Thornin's suggestion of going to find work, she quickly inhales the last of her breakfast and stands up, bumping the table and leaving her plate spinning in little circles for a moment before it settles back down. For a moment it looks as if she's about to head off into the street without even waiting to hear where Thornin wants them to go. Then she pauses and, looking at Thornin, points towards Lann who is still at the table with the guards.

[Hircine]

Serim looks up from his tankard, giving Thornin a rather sinister smile. "Just remember to keep my offer in mind." The tiefling's attention then turns to his near empty mug. "Serving girl, I am in need of a refill!"

[onlie2005]

Jessica continues eating breakfast and studying her spellbook. She is not one to barge in on others conversations, although she is willing to listen in from time to time. The girl really has nothing to add at the moment.

[18th Avenger]

"Oh! I see you gents aren't part of my usual crowd. I would ask you two to forget any references I made about seamstresses, if you please." Lann grinned at them again. "But let's remedy that. Lann Grymfriar, adventurer. At your service. We are introduced now."

Without waiting, he reached and shook both their hands firmly. "Those are my mates over there," He jerked his head at the table, with the grouchy-looking dwarf, a human in leather armor and a half orc both stuffing their faces... And a little girl with her nose buried in a book. "All law-abiding and evil-smiting adventurers. Anyway, I heard from Cerwin Longstride and Kalas Redsun, good friends of mine from the Third Squad of Nentir Guards, that your good Captain Faringray is organizing himself a very hush hush sort of mission."

"As I have nothing but praise for the skill and might of the Guards," added Lann, taking a generous pull of his tankard. "I would like to offer the services of me and some skilled adventurers to better help him get the job done. Think he'd be interested? And if he is, where would I see him?"

[Solinvitus]

The half Orc ate through the short exchanges, preferring to leave the small 'talks' to his mate. When his comrade introduced them, he looked up and uncontrollably snorted, with food full and still chewing in his mouth. His expression locked in a fierce, stone cold cast- his preferred way to tell strangers not to xxxk with him, or at least get them to think twice before such attempt.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin just stares at the Tiefling for a moment, then moves on, answering Sen's frantic pointings, not always knowing what she is trying to say, "Yes, yes lass, we will be takin' 'im too, don't you be worryin'. We will be leavin' as soon as everyone be done here, so herry up!"

Rjanag, I think Thornin would misinterpret Sen most of the time, so just letting you know that if it doesn't seem like he understood her....he doesn't :smallwink:

[Hircine]

Gritting his teeth, the hook nosed guard's eyes widen in surprise. He quickly surveys the room to ensure no one is eavesdropping on their conversation. His burly compatriot with the beard begins coughing violently as he nearly chokes on his ale. Quickly wiping some of the spilled liquid from his tunic he raises his index finger to his lips, in an attempt to stop Lann from saying anymore.

"Why those lazy, good for nothing gossips! How dare they betray Faringray's confidence, he wanted no one outside the watch to know until the situation was resolved. I'll have those two louts slapped in irons and left to rot if it's the last thing I do!", the hook nosed man rasps.

To ensure things don’t get further out of hand the guard's coworker claps a hand on his shoulder and tries to diffuse the situation. "Alright now just calm down, Arandel! This fellow and his band of followers might be able to help us out. Look, it has been over a month and we still haven't found a single lead. I believe it’s high time that we set aside our pride and ask for help before more citizens...", he trails off not wanting to say anything further on the subject.

"Alright, Lann is it? You're right we could use some assistance on this one. However should Faringray even consider trusting you he will require "convincing" that you won't betray his confidence, and leak any information regarding our investigation." A long sigh escapes the man as he runs his hands through his matted hair. "It’s still early yet so I imagine he'll be drilling the recruits on the fields west of town. Now I've told you all I could so can we finish our drinks in peace?"

The guard's friend leans back in his chair, angrily pursing his lips, still displeased with the situation.

[18th Avenger]

Lann's grin narrowed to an apologetic smile as he stood to return to his friends.

"Yes, you've said more than enough. Thank you very much, sirs. Also, for not getting Kalas and Cerwin into trouble. Rather fond of those two, I am, even if the former is flirts too much for his own good while the latter cheats at dice." He tipped his head at them. "A good day to the both of you."

He made his way back to his table. Thornin was there now, apparently trying to make sense of what Sen was trying to say.

"Back now Sen, nothing to worry about. Morning, Thornin," said Lann with a friendly nod. "Got ourselves a job with the town guards. Something about a hush-hush mission that they're having trouble with. Wanna go see their Captain Faringray about what we can do?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
When Thornin and Lann both suggest pursuing leads, Sen makes a quick series of signs that just leaves the others squinting at her in confusion. Seeing that they don't understand what she was trying to say, she claws at her face in confusion for a moment, and then reproduces the slate from her pack and scribbles something on it for a moment before flipping it around to show them.

The slate shows three stick figures on it. One of them, shorter than the others and with a beard--clearly meant to indicate Thornin--has an arrow pointing off in one direction, and another, taller and with long straight hair, has an arrow pointing off in a different direction. The last figure is holding a bundle of spears in its hand, and an arrow going from that figure points towards a drawing of a head with curved horns coming out of it. As she shows them the slate she raises her eyebrows, which they recognize as meaning that what she's saying is a question or suggestion. To reinforce her meaning she points at Thornin and then squiggles her finger off in another direction, doing the sign they have learned means "Go", then points at Lann and makes the same sign in another direction, and points at herself and Arakai and makes the same sign in the direction of Serim. All the while she is bouncing on her feet, as if antsy to get going.

[18th Avenger]

Lann bent down to peer into Sen's drawing board, trying to make sense of what she'd written.

"A fine idea, Sen," the redheaded warrior said at length when he'd more or less figured it out. "But until you can magically learn to talk all of a sudden, my lead can wait." He smiled placatingly.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
As the flailing of Sen starts, Thornin immediately loses interest. He finishes his beer while she draws on her board, having already made up his mind as to what he was going to do. He slams the mug down on the table, lets out a large burp, and starts walking in the direction of where he thinks his contacts will most likely be, not waiting for anyone to tag along.

[18th Avenger]

"Wow. I do believe we're in demand. Wouldn't you say so, Thornin? Thornin?"

Lann turned just in time to see the dwarf amble out of the tavern and into the street. He snorted and shook his head. For all their time adventuring, he still had trouble reading the grump dwarf. He turned back to the table, to where Arakhai was polishing off the last of his breakfast.

He looked at his own as of yet untouched plate and snatched a few morsels. "Maybe one of you ought to follow the dwarf, see what he's up to?" The warlord suggested with the blunt cheerfulness of a prison warden beating sense into convicts. "Not you, though, Jessica." Lann affected that tone of voice he believed was parental authority. It just made him sound like a peevish older sibling.

Turning to Sen, his mouth full of eggs and bacon, Lann said. "Mine can wait, Sen m'dear. I'll talk to Serim with you." He gulped down his food with a swallow of small beer. "But first, breakfast."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
When Lann goes and sits down at Serim's table, Sen stays standing just behind Lann's shoulder. She crosses her arms and watches the tiefling carefully through narrowed eyes, waiting for his response.

[onlie2005]

Jessica may have been concentrating on her studying but it did not mean she was not paying attention to her surroundings. She overheard what the guard said and her interest was peaked. She was used to Lann's somewhat bossy attitude. And to be honest she did not care. The girl too was anxious for some travel time. The time in the town was enjoyable but boring.

"So when do we take the ferry?"

[Solinvitus]

Arakai scratched his head, raised a btiw and watched Sen's weird drawings. Then he shook his head as if in confusion and shrugged," SEN, Arakai follow you Where ye go..."

[18th Avenger]

Lann shrugged. The half orc's loyalty was rather touching. But then came Jessica's comment about a ferry. He sat there for a while, ruminating on what she said. "Not today, Jessica. Turns out we got a whole bunch of offers for work. We might be out on the road again by the afternoon or the evening. So it'll either be ferries or the wagon once again." He pulled his plate closer. "Now lemme finish my breakfast."

What followed was the utter demolition of a harmless platter of eggs and bacon. The redheaded warrior wiped the crumbs off his face and dusted his hands. Motioning for the ranger to follow, he went over to Serim's table and helped himself to a seat, ordering another tankard of small ale.

"My good friend here says you too might have work for us?" Lann asked pleasantly. He had his familiar bright smile on his open honest face once again.

[Hircine]

Serim ignores the adventurer's approach, choosing to finish his drink and consume the remaining morsels from breakfast. Once he is finished eating the tiefling produces a fancy napkin to wipe his mouth, before finally turning to acknowledge the presence of Lann and his mute companion.

"So I take it my offer was too tantalizing for you to pass up, eh?", he exclaims with a hearty chuckle. "The opportunity I'm offering will require clandestine measure that will depend on you not asking questions. This job will pay each of your group one thousand drakes. If you accept you will receive two-hundred coins of your fee up front and the rest upon completion. However should you decide to decline or take time to think about it, my offer will go off the table and we shall not discuss this matter again."

Insight DC 12
You definitely get the feeling that while vague, Serim's offer is very shady.

[18th Avenger]

Lann was a little taken aback by the stringent conditions Serim had put forward. But then again, given the money involved, the tiefling could impose whatever secrecy he wanted. The northerner caught the impression that the noble was an old hand at this type of dealing.

He gave Sen a rather helpless look. In all their association, it wasn't often the big warrior was caught off guard. He turned back to the tiefling.

"That's a lot of money for an upfront payment," he coached his words carefully. "Tempting as it is, I can't speak for my group. Maybe some minor details about what you want done? As our association has been nothing but cordial, of course."

Diplomacy, Wheedle Information
[roll0]

[Solinvitus]

Arakai listened attentively and his eyes fixed on the the man named Serim as he threw out his offer. His only kin, his grandfather who just passed away ever told him - never to trust wholeheartedly to what one says. Observe the physiology closely, there are always telltale signs that reveal the real intent behind the curtain. Though he had never mastered this skill to the degree his grandpa aspired for him , but he took the lesson seriously and did as told regardless of how many times he got more confused with that attempt.


Insight
[roll0]

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen remains quiet, continuing to stare the tiefling down while waiting to see how he responds to Lann. Being a creature of the wilderness, she cares little for money--indeed, she barely understands what it is--and it is only through Lann's reaction that she can tell it's a large amount. While the offer of money is not especially tempting to her, she decides to wait until Lann gets a response before interjecting her opinion.

[onlie2005]

Jessica has finished studying her book and now joins the conversations with the others. She is beside Lann now, not wanting to be left out of the conversations regarding jobs. And naturally she is curious about this new job.

"How 'clandestine' is this job? And why all the hush hush?"

[Hircine]

Thornin and whoever may be accompanying him quickly file out of the inn, and head for the bridge into the heart of Fallcrest. Sergeant Thurmina, the rather grouse woman in charge of the toll house emerges demanding a copper piece before allowing passage. After paying the toll you make your way into the town proper. Maneuvering through the large clusters of people going about their daily routines is a slow, agonizing process. It takes nearly half an hour to reach the doorstep of Teldorthan’s Arms. Stepping inside a bell situated above the door jingles, alerting the proprietor of a potential customer.

Looking around Thornin is surprised to find the counter unmanned and no clientele browsing the racks of expertly crafted dwarven equipment. The familiar sound of a hammer connecting with steel alongside the forge heating up are the only indication that anyone is even presently in the shop. An authoritative, booming voice soon fills the shop.

"Ur ye daft, boy!? Ye'll ruin the blade wi' shoddy hammerin' like that. Ye weans are a disgrace to the Ambershard name. Fur four generations our family has been producing master smiths yet ye brats cannae even best one human! Noo, ah heard a customer come in so try no' tae screw things up while ahm gone."

Moments later a wrinkled, grey haired dwarf with a long beard tied neatly in a twin knot emerges from the backroom. He is dressed in a rather loose fitting, dirty blacksmith's apron, a finely crafted pipe clenched between his teeth. Upon seeing another dwarf in his establishment he immediately perks up.

"Welcome to ma humble shop fellow dwarf! Ah can assure that despite ma idiot sons we make the finest weapons this side of the Nentir Vale. Thanks in part to our superior dwarven craftsmanship, though I'm sure you already knew that.", he says with a wink.

Not until he approaches does he recognize the dwarf standing before him. "Thornin, is that ye lad? Its been aboot six or seven years since ah saw ye last. Whit brings ye to ma humble shop?"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin cracks a small smirk, hearing the yelling from the back of the store. Ah I remember them days, he thinks to himself. When the older dwarf comes back out he smiles a little larger, but still not like he once did, "Aye, it be me, old friend. It's lookin' like ye be havin' another apprentice there, I remember them days," he chuckles and move on, "I be lookin' fer work. Got me a band of folks, and we be tryin' to make some money. Got any ideas or places to be pointin' me to?"

[Hircine]

The old dwarf rotates the pipe in his mouth several times. "Unfortunately ah don't huv anything fur ye that needs doing at the moment. However ah've heard talk at the local tavern aboot farmers demanding action against a band of marauders who've been a terror to the countryside for months now. Should ye decide to look into the matter I'd ask ye to check on ma old friend Rogath Vollney and his family. "

Teldorthan shakes his head solemnly. "Ahm sorry ah couldn't have been more help to ye lad."

[Hircine]

For a moment it seems as if Serim will relent, but at the last moment he shakes his head. "I can ill afford to leave anything to chance at this point. I'm sure you can sympathize with my position, Lann. On that note I am going to have to rescind my offer and ask that you forget we ever had this conversation.", he states while rising from his chair.

"I apologize for wasting your time.", Serim says with a swift bow as he makes his way out of the taproom.

Arakai:
You can't seem to get a very good read on the tiefling, though you do note he is rather adept a concealing his emotions.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin shakes his head, "Dunna be sorry m'friend. Marauders be just as good as any for me to be sinkin' me axe into. I'll be checkin' up on yer friend, Rogath, too. Well, I'll be lettin' ya get back to yer apprentice. From the sounds of it, I think he be hammerin' tha sword too hard. G'bye old dwarf." With a half smile and his normal sad eyes, Thornin walks out of the store, back to the Inn, to tell his comrades what he had found out.

After he gets back to the Inn and all his comrades have returned, Thornin orders another ale, receives it, and begins to tell his fellow mercs about this band of marauders attack the outlying farms. "I feel like havin' fight and stickin' me axe in some people's heads, what about yerselves?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen does not intervene as Serim takes his leave; when his back is turned, she sticks her tongue out at him again. After the tiefling is gone, she turns to face Lann and the others and, remembering that Lann had mentioned another lead, spells out with her fingers: F-A-R-I-N-G-R-A-Y-?

OOC:
Actually in her language the question mark isn't spelled out with her fingers, she just spells out the letters of the guy's name and the whole while her eyebrows are raised, which indicates a question. But you guys have been around her long enough I figure you can tell the difference between a question and a non-question.

[18th Avenger]

The redheaded warrior said nothing and just nodded his head solemnly.

Lann watched the tiefling leave and sigh. He wasn't too shook up about the lost work and its marvelous pay-off. But he had a feeling that it night have been deeply important.

He turned to Sen, who was spelling out something with her fingers. It took him a few minutes to piece together what she meant.

"Faringray? Yes, some of the guards said that ole Fary might have a bit of work for us." A bit of that bright smile was returning as he rose to make for the door.

"Come along, everyone." He said to his party. "We've tarried in this lovely town long enough. We're adventurers! The road calls to us!"

[Solinvitus]

Arakai's brows dipped instantly, and narrowed as tiefling walked away. "Bloody...time...wasted" the half Orc growled. "Me...like not"

Following Lann's motion to leave, Arakai stood up abruptly and slung the sword belt over his shoulder. "Ye we adventurers...job get us...cause we good!"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen beams when Lann and Arakai agree to leaving the inn. She grabs Jessica's hand and makes for the door, almost yanking the girl off her feet in her excitement.

[onlie2005]

Jessica was waiting for an answer when her partymates surprised her with the announcement that they were leaving town. Before she knew it she was being led by the hand by Sen, much to her chagrin since she could walk on her own and had her arm aching a little from being yanked without warning or so much as a goodbye to the innkeeper.

"Wait! Where are we going? What's the job?"

[18th Avenger]

"Ole Faringray will know what we got ahead of us, Jessie," Lann explained as he stopped by the door. "He'll be at the fields close to the Knight Gate, whipping his lads into shape."

He turned to Thornin, who sat by the bar, drinking up a storm. Lann thought about bringing the foul-tempered dwarf along. The job he put forward seemed like a good place to start, but the warrior from the north was of the sort who liked to have all his cards on the table, especially after Serim's abrupt exit.

"We'll sort out where we go when we get back, Thornin." Lann explained as he adjusted his kilt and the greatsword strapped across his back. "Shouldn't be too long."

His blue eyes met each party-members. "Here we go!" He pushed the door open and led them out into the brilliant day.

[Hircine]

Heading out into the crisp morning air you start making your way south from the inn to the training fields on the settlement's outskirts. You march along the sparsely populated road past farmers’ dwellings until you see an open field of tilled earth. In the middle of the field scream nearly two dozen militia recruits. They attack one another with wild abandon, swinging wooden swords and shields. Watching them with dismay is a cloaked man on horseback.

[18th Avenger]

Lann made a show of peering into the distance, shading his eyes from the morning sun.

"Do my eyes deceive me?" He boomed in a voice meant for a stage. "Is that the good Captain Faringray! Yoho, Captain! Yoohoo!" He waved at the man on horseback as the party made its way closer.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen beams as she watches the recruits sparring. Once the group gets close enough to the training grounds and the captain is distracted by Lann, she draws one of her javelins and--holding it backwards, with the blunt end facing out--skips towards the recruits, ready to join in their antics unless one of her companions or the captain yells at her to stop. As she approaches them she holds the javelin in two hands, swinging it over her head at nothing in particular, hacking and slashing as if it were a greatsword.

[Hircine]

Upon hearing his name being shouted the captain turns ever so slightly, allowing his steely gaze to settle on the approaching adventurers. Furrowing his brow, Faringray dismounts and confidently strides over to the group.

He takes notice of Sen's attempt to join the men practicing in the field and quickly turns to the siren with an outstretched hand. "Excuse me miss, if you'd like to join the recruits for a match I must ask you to grab a wooden sword and shield. I can't have any of these lads getting more than a few welts and bruises from their training. Anyway there should still be a couple leftover pieces of sparring equipment in that crate near my steed."

Refocusing his attention the captain lowers his hood, revealing his lengthy dark colored hair which has started showing signs of graying. Faringray is quite a striking individual despite dark circles masking the beauty of his icy blue eyes. Also noticeable are the many stress lines etched into his forehead, which you've heard several local women say make him look more distinguished. It's also apparent that he hasn't shaved in some weeks as wild, unkempt stubble has sprouted all over his face.

Clearing his throat authoritatively Faringray shakes hands with each of you. "I am Nathan Faringray, Captain of the Fallcrest Guard. How may I be of service to you travelers today?", he inquires in a soft, refined tone.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen nods and obligingly puts her javelin away, opens the crate, and takes out a wooden sword. She holds it between her thumb and forefinger by the tip, rather than the hilt, letting it hang limply at arms' length like a dead fish. She scrunches her face at it for a moment before tossing it in the air and grabbing it by the hilt to hold it correctly.

After taking a few steps towards the sparring ground, though, she hesitates. Strangers, she thinks. Finally, she puts the sword back in the crate and returns to where Lann and the captain are speaking, and stands off to the side to listen to what the captain has to say.

[18th Avenger]

If Lann saw how exhausted Faringray looked, he made no sign. Instead, he stood just a little straighter.

"That's right, we're travelers. But we've been in the city for a while, taking our rest. We're done now and are looking for a bit of work." He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And you look like you could need it. Whatever you're doing I offer the service of myself and my party." He jerked his thumb at those who accompanied him. "We're a dwarf short, though. But he's a good sort."

[Hircine]

Narrowing his eyes the captain's tone hardens. "Don't play coy with me, stranger. You wouldn't have come to me if you didn't already have some insight into what we're doing. Now I'd like to here what you know and just who exactly gave you such privileged information?"

Faringray crosses his arms and glares right at Lann, expecting an answer.

[18th Avenger]

He held his palms up, as if warding away any accusation.

"No insights and no ill intent, just guesses and whispers. Some of your men," He made sure not to mention his two friends in the Nentir Guards. "Believe that your task, whatever that might be, would be finished a lot more expediently if you had aid in the form of experienced adventurers." Lann smiled. "And I assure you, me and my party are that, plus discrete."

[onlie2005]

Jessica lets the adults talk and largely observes. She is not really someone who butts in on adult conversations unless it is really necessary. After all she was a child and was not likely to be taken seriously.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen stands with her arms crossed, nodding along with Lann's words.

[Hircine]

Faringray takes a deep breath, loosening his rigid posture. "You are definitely loyal to your friends, stranger.", he says as a wry smile creeps onto his lips. "I must admit that impresses me a great deal. More importantly you are correct that the guard could use some outside help on our current undertaking. While you all seem to be a likable bunch, I don't know anything about you and that makes it difficult for me to simply take your word at face value. If you could convince me of your group's trustworthiness than I might reconsider my stance on this issue."

OOC: Skill Challenge
You need to get 4 successes before 3 failures. In order to get Faringray to reveal anything about his assignment you must prove that he can trust you with classified information. You may use any relevant skill to help you progress, keep in mind that I reward good role playing with possible bonuses.

Once during the challenge one player may make to make a DC 14 Insight Check which will give a +2 bonus to the next roll made.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen has no idea what she could say to the captain to earn his trust. But she notices the captain's horse again and, remembering her circus days, she recalls that many of the humans she has met seemed to value the gut instincts of animals as much as their own. In particular she recalls one man who, while he was always horrible and violent towards her, always seemed to laugh and make merry with anyone who his dogs seemed to take a liking to. Sen is not sure if Faringray is that sort of person, but figures that winning the trust of his mount cannot hurt.

She waits until one of the others speaks, to distract Faringray's attention, and then takes a couple slow steps towards the horse, first raising her hands and then lowering them slowly to try and keep it calm. When she reaches it she places a hand on the side of its neck and strokes it. She hopes to elicit from it at least a nuzzle, a whinny, or any other small sign of affection that Faringray could see.


Nature check: [roll0]

[Hircine]

The captain's majestic white stallion while wary of Sen's approach remains perfectly still. Gently caressing the horse's neck elicits a joyful whinny from the beast of burden. Having taken quite a liking to the siren the creature gently rubs its nose against your shoulder.

Faringray turns around just in time to see his mount becoming rather affectionate with a complete stranger. "Well I'll be, you must have quite a way with animals’ young miss. In all my years I've never seen Snowfire take to someone so quickly. He's always been a better judge of character than me. Perhaps you folks are alright after all."

Skill Challenge: 1 success/0 failures

[18th Avenger]

Result of Diplomacy Roll (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=14360149#post14360149)
Lann smiled and nodded approvingly at Sen. He had doubts about how her and her muteness. It was somewhat painful to watch her scribble things down on her little writing board and present it to people. But what she did with Faringray's horse proved that her actions spoke much louder than words.

"And they do say animals have no need for the wiles of men." He grinned at the Captain. "Adding to the point, we have no reason to lie or dissemble. You're a man noted for his insight and firmness, sugarcoating things will get us nowhere with you." His blue eyes were serious. No other approach would serve with the captain's type.

"We come to you to offer our help. Aside from a few brawl at the Nentir Inn, we keep our noses clean and keep things safe for everyone. Aside from a little excitement and lucre, peace stands closest to our hearts."

[Hircine]

Maintaining constant eye contact with Faringray allows your words to resonate with the man on a deeper level. It's clear his disposition has begun to shift when the glaring ceases and he starts stroking his chin thoughtfully "The mere fact that you didn't avert your gaze certainly speaks volumes about you, friend. Nothing you said rings false, however I'd like to hear from your other compatriots first before I render a decision."


Skill Challenge: 2 success/0 failures

[Solinvitus]

"Oi Oi Oi...You talk too much...I do not know you too...Me friend want job...me friend should get...because me friend very good. Me friend's friend...that's me! Very good too!" The barbarian snorted impatiently, decided to show off a little of his fighting skills.

He drew his big sword with one hand, held it by the hilt, blade horizontal to his shoulder pointing at the air. Anyone who uses a big blade like the barbarian's would know the how heavy it is. Then he looked at Sen and gave her a blink, "Stay still!" Following that he turned and spun, swung the blade what whistled through the air at Sen neck. It was less than a quarter of an inch away from Sen neck that the blade cut through. It was a simple but dangerous demonstration. Sen didn't fumble. She remained as calm as a iron nerved warrior should.

"See! Me friend did not move at all! She is fearless...And me sword skill VERY BEST! Understand! We are worthy! Stop talking and start working..." The half orc grumbled as he sheathed the sword into his scabbard in one graceful motion


Intimidation
[roll0]

[Hircine]

Shaking his head it is obvious the captain is not pleased with Arakai's display. Folding his arms once more he glares at the half-orc. "Your brash display and simplistic words won't make me change my tune. And if that was an attempt to intimidate me, you failed, miserably."

Skill Challenge: 2 success/1 failures

OOC: Everyone
It's clear now that trying to intimidate the captain will result in failure.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Despite Arakai's warning, Sen was noticeably trembling and biting her lip as the half-orc trained his sword on her. And after his display, even as Arakai was bragging about her nerves of steel, Sen was breathing a sigh of relief and wiping sweat from her brow. Her obvious nervousness about Arakai's stunt could not have helped the intimidation attempt...

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
While the others continue speaking with the captain, Sen takes a moment to produce her tablet from her pack and begin scrawling something. If they look, Lann, Arakai, and Jessica notice that she is not scribbling as hastily as usual, but rather is making more careful and deliberate strokes than they are accustomed to seeing. What was it the old grandpa always said... keep them all the same size, all in a row, dots on the i's... When she finishes, she takes a step towards the captain. Rather than simply holding the tablet in front of his face as she usually does with her companions, she instead holds it out at waist level, like an offering, holding it flat rather than face-forward, so that the captain may take it and read it if he wishes.

What it says:
Written in compact letters is: "OUR FRIEND IS NOT SMART BUT FIGHTS FOR GOOD, LIKE US. WE HAVE ALL GOT HURT BY BAD PEOPLE AND WE ALL FIGHT TO STOP THEM, LIKE YOU. WE DO NOT WANT TO BETRAY."

If the captain takes it, she watches while he reads it, keeping her eyes trained on his, and gives him a nod once he finishes and looks back up.

OOC: Diplomacy check:
here goes nothing: [roll0]

[Hircine]

Noticing Sen presenting her slate to him gets the captain to raise his eyebrow. Gingerly taking the tablet from her he reads what she has written. Letting out a short sigh he hands the board back. "I'd like to be able to believe you, really I would. Try to understand my position though, if this information ended up reaching civilians it would cause mass hysteria and chaos. As a sworn defender of Fallcrest I can't take that risk without being absolutely sure it won't get spread around."

Skill Challenge: 2 success/2 failures

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen bows her head slightly to acknowledge he captain's comment, and then looks back at the others, waiting to see what they will do.

[18th Avenger]

Lann had an internal wince when he saw Arakhai and Sen fail to impress Faringray. Full marks for heart to the both of them, but no one ever won battles just by trying.

He liked to think he thought rather fast on his big feet. His mind raced as he tried to process what could mollify the prickly Captain of the Nentir Guards. Before he spoke, the big man's fingers signed to Sen and Arakhai.

"For the love of Kord, please stop!"
"I'll grant you my team are rough-spoken and ill-mannered at times," Lann began, as though he weren't pulling an explanation out from parts unknown. "But I didn't join up with them for their manners and graces. You're a man who allows the actions of others to be their judge. And with Kord as my witness, I have seen Arakhai," He waved a brawny arm at the big half orc. "Stand firm against a trio of bugbears to give some poor merchant time to get away. The poor dumb bastards couldn't even get past him, his axe was flashing so fast. I've seen Sen," he gestured at the contrite-looking Sen. "Throw a javelin so hard, she skewered three goblins in a row."

But Lann didn't seem done. When he was on a tear, sometimes it was hard for the red-headed northerner to stop. "If feats of arms don't impress you, I will have you know that all my party are the most dependable and solid adventurers West or East of the Vale. They keep their word and the all the demons in the hells couldn't break their spirits. And I will beat down or drink under a table any other person, beast or demon who would have the temerity to say otherwise." His posture was firm and his blue eyes hard. Lann believed in his companions. They have never let him down over the course of their association. And upon his honor as a man, and a Grymfriar to boot, he would do right by them and pay each back a thousandfold.

[onlie2005]

Jessica has been keeping her distance so far. She is not really someone adults take seriously for obvious reasons. But she decides that now will be the best time to act. So she chooses her words carefully.

"Sir I know this is strange coming from me but you can trust us sir. And I promise we will not blab out anything you don't want us to blab out.", she says looking him straight in the eye and talking to him in a serious, straightforward and neutral manner, "All I can say is that you can trust us sir."

Diplomacy Check:[roll0]

[Solinvitus]

Arakai raised brow and snapped his head away and began grumbling in Orcish "#@$$@^@!!!"

He was upset.

[Hircine]

Lann's emotionally charged speech gets the stern faced captain to smile in admiration. He loosens his rigid stance once more, appearing far more receptive than he has been the entire conversation. "It is clear to me that you are a remarkable leader that values his allies and isn't afraid to take action, commendable traits indeed. Your word is your bond and I believe you to be a person worthy of trust."

Jessica hammers away any remaining doubt in the captain's mind.

[18th Avenger]

Lann allowed himself a smile. Jessica was the hunter's arrow, finding the mark from 30 paces away. She was beautiful.

"You don't doubt our sincerity, I can tell," said Lann, wiping the smile off his honest face. "Now, tell us, what's happening and what are you having trouble with? The Guards should have been capable of solving any problem. What's so troublesome?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen smiles at the captain's decision to trust them, and waits to hear what he has to say.

[Hircine]

Faringray ushers the party away from the militiamen training in the nearby field. Once the captain feels that you're a comfortable distance away he halts, places his hands begin his back, and assumes a respectful yet relaxed stance. "Two months ago a rash of abductions began in the Fallcrest area. Most of those taken were halflings though we didn't realize a pattern until recently. Initially we believed that the missing citizens had either run away from home or were the victims of unfortunate circumstance. Our view of the crimes changed when one of my patrols happened onto a raided wagon train belonging to the Halfmoon family. Investigating the wreckage provided us with two critical pieces of information. Whoever orchestrated the attack had no interest in what the caravan was carrying, a representative of the clan confirmed that nothing was missing. More importantly we found signs of combat but no bodies which indicated that the employees were the real target."

Faringray pauses momentarily to gauge your reactions before continuing. "The following day a halfling who evaded capture was found battered and unconscious on the edge of town. The survivor was quickly whisked off to a local healer to receive treatment. We were forced to wait several days before being allowed to conduct an inquiry into what transpired. She was clearly still in shock and it took some doing to get her to reveal what happened. Along the road they were set upon by a one armed gnoll and a well armed, extremely disciplined group of men. She said that they could have easily killed the inexperienced guardsman but made sure not to inflict any serious injuries. After everyone was incapacitated they bound the captives and then made their way north. Unfortunately that's all we got as the poor girl clammed up and wouldn't say anything more."

Rubbing his forehead thoughtfully the captain lets out a long sigh. "I hope you can now appreciate the delicate situation I'm dealing with here."

[Solinvitus]

The half Orc listened attentively to the case with his hand rubbing his chin, nodding his head in every interval of seconds. "Intersting. Where she halfling now. Many questions help."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen makes a face when she hears Arakai's suggestion. While it was true that the halfling might give them some information she had not given the guard, Sen had never had much patience for questioning and talking. She would much rather hurry up and try to directly track the kidnappers down.

Facing Lann, she uses her hands to spell out the word caravan, and then looks all around with her eyebrows raised--the sign for where?. Finally she gestures with her thumb towards Faringray, indicating that she thinks he should ask the captain where the raided caravan can be found.

OOC:
While Sen would prefer to rush off into the wilderness and start tracking rather than stick around town for Q&A, I agree that it would be good to question the halfling first :). (Also, for a ranger, she is not a great tracker!)

[18th Avenger]

"Arakai and Sen are on the right track." Lann said, his arms crossed and a hand rubbing his freshly-shaven chin.

He had a thought from Faringray's briefings. "So we might be looking at slavers?" The disgust was easily heard in the big man's voice. Anyone who made a living off stealing people from their loved ones deserved nothing but a swift boot to the teeth and several creative applications of a sword to certain body parts which may or may not be vital.

Lann looked back to his companions. "We could split up. Some of us could go to the halfling, while the others go with Sen to the road the girl was taken." The northerner turned to Faringray. "Well, captain? You think there might have been things she hadn't told you or your men?"

[Hircine]

Apparently put off by the insinuation that he wasn't thorough in his questioning of the witness gets the captain to tense up. Only after examining the situation in a different light does he reconsider his position.

"I spoke with her right after the attack, when she was in quite a state. There is a distinct possibility that she might have remembered something now that she's had the time to process what happened. ...Unfortunately you might have some degree of difficulty getting her to speak with you."

Faringray breaks eye contact and appears to be blushing uncontrollably. "You see once I spoke to her she wanted all of Fallcrest to know what happened. I attempted to dissuade her from this course of action, to no avail. So she left me with no choice but to place her under house arrest, which hasn't exactly warmed her heart to authority figures. Feel free to give it a shot if you'd like, but I'm fairly certain she'll turn you away as well."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen shakes her head at Lann's suggestion of splitting up. She erases her board and writes on it, "IF WE TRACK TO KIDNAPPERS, SHOULD BE TOGETHER TO FIGHT THEM."

[onlie2005]

Jessica started thinking about what was said. Why were there no deaths? Why would a well armed group attack guardsmen in order to capture them? It did not make sense. So she thought out of the box instead. And some ideas started to form in her head.

"Could the kidnappers be slavers? That would explain the need not to kill outright? But why pick on halflings for the most part? Perhaps those responsible have a grudge against halflings. Or maybe it could be a racial hatred thing?"

Jessica searches her memory of what types of sentient species would have a particular hatred of halflings.

Nature Knowledge Check:[roll0]
History Knowledge Check:[roll1]

[18th Avenger]

He peered at Sen's chalkboard and nods. "We'll pick up Thornin along the way to the lady's current digs. That way, it'll all take one go, yes?"

Towards the furiously-thinking little girl (who was the most furious thinker, probably next to the dwarf), Lann said, "We'll figure that out when we get there, Jessie." He gave her a friendly pat her on the head. "Full marks for the suggestion, though. We can figure out who or what lives around here and even trip upon whoever would have a grudge against the little fellows."

The redheaded northerner turned back to the captain. "All we need now, Captain Faringray, is the address and possibly some signed consent from you for any guards you might have left with her."

Diplomacy Roll - Acquiring Written Consent To Speak To Witness (See OoC)

[Rjanag]

He peered at Sen's chalkboard and nods. "We'll pick up Thornin along the way to the lady's current digs. That way, it'll all take one go, yes?"

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen nods at Lann's suggestion and gives him a "thumbs-up".

[Solinvitus]

OI...all so troublesome....Arakai grumbled with a raised brow and sighed loudly," but me friend want to...me no choice...follow"

[Hircine]

Faringray gives a slight nod as he strides over to his steed. Fishing around in one of the horse's saddlebags he produces a quill, a rolled up piece of parchment, and an inkwell. Unfurling the paper he uncaps the inkwell and dips the end of his quill into the dark liquid. Utilizing his mount as a writing desk he scrawls out a letter of consent for the party. Once he has finished writing he packs everything way before making his way back over to the party.

Rolling up the piece of paper he gingerly places it into Lann's waiting hand. The captain then turns on his heels, hollering out for one of his men. "Anlow! Anlow! Could you come over here please?"

Hearing his name called the tall, lanky man drops his sparring equipment and hurries to answer Faringray's summons. "How may I be of service Captain Faringray?", he inquires while saluting.

Frowning at his subordinates display the captain grits his teeth to keep from chewing out his underling. After taking a moment to compose himself he addresses the man. "I need you to escort these good adventurers to Vzani Blackwater's flat. Once you've completed this assignment I want you to report back to me."

"Understood Captain!", he exclaims enthusiastically with another salute to his superior. Turning his focus to the party he says, "Just let me know when you wish to depart and we'll be off."

Faringray shakes his head disapprovingly, clearly not pleased with how Anlow conducts himself. Refocusing his attention on the group he reiterates what he said earlier. "Remember to be discrete in your inquires and make sure not to disclose any information about what your investigating to anyone." The captain then thumps a hand against his plate armor. "May Bahamut watch over you!"

As the captain walks away to resume supervising his men it appears that a great burden has been lifted off of him.

OOC: Jessica
Halflings, in general, try their best to get along with everybody, and have few if any enemies. No single group, race, or entity has it out them.

[Rjanag]

"Just let me know when you wish to depart and we'll be off."


Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen holds one of her javelins aloft, pointing it in the direction from which they came, and starts walking off immediately, gesturing for the others to follow. <She has no idea where she's supposed to be going, and if Anlow tells her to stop or go a different direction she'll follow.>

[18th Avenger]

Lann stuffed the slip into his belt with a firm pat before reaching out and grabbing Sen by her shoulder.

"Full marks for enthusiasm, Sen, but we've to pick up Thornin first, remember?" He turned back to the captain's man, Anlow. "You wouldn't mind if we stopped by the Nentir Inn to pick up the last of our number, would you, good sir?"

[Hircine]

Anlow ceases kicking clods of dirt to answer your query. "I suppose we can take a short detour.", he says with a shrug of his shoulders.

[18th Avenger]

"Good to hear, then," Lann grinned. "Thornin's a good sort, but I don't think he'd take to kindly to being kept in the dark. Come along, everyone!"

With a cheery wave, he turned back and started to walk the way they came, from the training fields to the outskirts and finally back into the Vale proper until they came upon their lodgings. Like a tornado ripping through a city block, Lann was first through the door, his voice booming and cheery.

"Thornin, you grumpy gus! Are you in here? We have work ahead of us!"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin sat there drinking his ale, waiting for the others to get back. When he would finish one, he would sit for a moment, as if lost in his head. But then he would snap back into the world and order another ale. Finishing an ale meant he would start to think of the past, and what he lost, which meant he needed more ale to forget.

As soon as the bard walked into the door, Thornin snarled at him, finished his ale, tossing his empty mug at the bard, hoping to smack him in the mouth and shut his enthusiastic voice for a moment. He then got up from his seat at the bar and joined the others, very anxious to cleave in half anything they put in front of him.

I'm not making an attack roll or anything for the mug, because he really isn't aiming or anything, and by now Lann would have expected to get an empty flagon of ale hurled at his head by Thornin after calling him things like "grump gus.....much like a game between the two :smallwink:

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
At Thornin's outburst, Sen grins maniacally and claps her hands together. That old dwarf had not changed a bit--she remembered how hard he smacked her one morning on their previous journey when he had woken to find her tying knots in his beard.

Once Thornin is on his feet she hurries back out of the inn, eager to get on the road.

[18th Avenger]

As per custom, Thornin threw an empty mug at his mouth. As his custom, Lann ducked rather quickly. He never could get the gist of why the dwarf was rather antagonistic in the mornings. One day, they might; just not today it seemed.

"Glad to see you up," said Lann brightly as Thornin stomped out after them. He gathered the group together and introduced the Captain's man to him.

"This is Anlow. He'll lead us to our next job." Quickly, the big man sketched out what had happened in the roads leading to and from Nentir, what the Guards had been having trouble dealing with and what both them and the guards suspected.

"There's a survivor we're going to chat with, one Anlow here will lead us to." He clapped the man's pauldron agreeably. "Any more questions before we meet her, Master Anvilshield?"

[Hircine]

Anlow waits patiently while the party leader corresponds with the rather dour dwarf. Uncertain why the group maintains ties with such a volatile and violent individual the guardsman tries to keep his distance. Unfortunately there was nothing he could do about his current situation, he had been given a direct order from Captain Faringray, and nothing was going to keep him from completing his assignment.

Steeling his resolve he approaches Lann. "If you're finished here we can be off."

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Sergent of the Lost Clan
Thornin shook is head no, Wish we could just be crackin' skulls rather than talkin', he thought. Catching a slightly disapproving eye from the young soldier, Thorning walked right up to him, having to look straight up at him when he finished moving, and poking a finger into the man's chest he spoke, "Donna be lookin' at me tha way son, I've been seein' more horror than you be imaginin'. I be an old, grizzled soul, lad, and once you be seein' the awful things that I have, ye'll be grumpy too." Slinging his shield over his back, Thornin grunts he is ready tot he others and walks outside after Sen, rolling his eyes at how childlike she is, yet finding some comfort in it that he would never admit to another living soul.

He walked outside to the horse trough and dunked his head in, waking himself up and shaking all the water out of his hair and beard, he stood at the ready, waiting impatiently for the others as if he had been waiting for them for hours to start walking.

[18th Avenger]

Lann gave the soldier an apologetic look. They were used to the prickly dwarf and his rather aggressive routines and spent a great deal of the time making sure everyone was aware that Thornin was far from the most comradely of the bunch. Usually, it was them trying to prise the dwarf's meaty fingers from the throat of some poor unfortunate.

"Yes, we are quite prepared. Thank you for your patience, sir Anlow. Lead on, if it please you." He gave a salute to go with his bright smile.

[Hircine]

Nodding slightly, Anlow ushers the party out of the Nentir Inn back onto the main thoroughfare. Heading across the Five-Arch Bridge you are stopped by the rather unpleasant Sergeant Thurmina, who orders each of you to hand over a copper piece for the privilege to use the bridge. Not content to stand by Anlow boldly steps up to confront one of his superiors.

"Now see here, Sergeant! These good people and myself are assisting Captain Faringray on some important business. It would behoove you to overlook the toll, just this once."

For a moment it looks like the spiteful woman will bite off poor Anlow's head but at the mention of Faringray she goes pale, quickly retreating to the nearby toll house. Once you are out of earshot Anlow pulls you aside for a word.

"I've heard from some friends who work the bridge that Thurmina's been taking bribes to look the other way when illegal cargo's being moved. Faringray caught wind a while back and has been keeping a closer eye on the bridge, just waiting for her to slip up."

Making it into the bustling city center maneuvering through large crowds of people becomes problematic. Walking alongside Anlow he tries to make more small talk. "I hope the Captain didn't rub your group the wrong way. He may appear extremely rigid and suspicious of strangers, however his current position puts a great deal of responsibility on his shoulders. The safety of Fallcrest's entire population rests in his hands alone. How he is not more revered by the citizenry for the zeal and dedication he approaches his job with is beyond me!" Listening to the man speak it's obvious he holds Faringray in high regard.

Finally the prospective guardsman halts on the outskirts of a modest looking two-story home. "Well here we are, Vizani Blackwater's. Good luck on your errand, I've got to report back to the Captain", he exclaims with a brief wave as he hurries off.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
When the party is stopped at the bridge, Sen--not familiar with the laws of the town--reaches for her javelins. Fortunately, Anlow resolves the situation before she does anything foolish.

When they reach the house, she hangs behind the others in the group, waiting for one of them to approach.

[18th Avenger]

Anlow left them in front of a tidy-looking two story house on the nicer and more-populated side of Nentir Vale. He handled himself well back there, saving each of them a copper. Which was good because the big northerner did not even have a last gold coin.

Lann looked at his group. Arakai looked vaguely bored, Jessica looked vaguely busy in the solf-possessed way little girls had, Sen was bringing up their rear and Thornin looked churlish. He smiled at all them. Exactly as they are everyday.

Given the strange mechanisms that guide parties like his, leadership had more or less fallen into his shoulders. The big man stepped forward and knocked upon the thick oak door, idly noting the well-kept flowerbeds under the window.

"Mistress Blackwater!" He called up into the house. "Mistress Blackwater, could you spare us a moment of your time?"

[Hircine]

A few minutes pass before the clanking of armored feet can be heard approaching. The door opens slightly with a bald, well built man clad in fallcrest guard apparel filling the doorway. Scowling irritably, he wrinkles his nose as if some foul odor is assaulting his nostrils. Angrily scrutinizing each of your faces it's apparent that he doesn't care for the group's presence.

"I'm sorry but Ms. Blackwater is currently under house arrest for an undisclosed period of time. She hasn't been authorized to have visitors, so I must kindly ask you and your group to immediately vacate the premises.", His words are professional but carry a tone of hostility behind them.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen leers at the guard petulantly, arms akimbo. Suddenly her eyes widen as she remembers Faringray's letter, and she grabs Lann's arm, hopping up and down urgently.

[18th Avenger]

Lann didn't hear the guard clanking up to them until he was arrogantly demanding their attention. He was just about to whip up another explanation when the guard bluntly told them to get lost.

Just as thinks might have turned ugly, he felt a tugging at his arm. Sen was adamantly reminding him of the Captain's letter.

"I know, Sen, I know," said Lann as he shook her off. "I got us covered." He reached into his belt and pulled out Faringray's authorization letter.

"We're on the Captain's business," he explained as he handed the guard the letter. "It's about the you-know-whats and what's been happening, see. And we need to ask her a few more questions."

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
"Look son, we be needin' to talk to this woman, so be movin' aside and let us in, or the Capt'n will be hearin' about it!" In his usual charismatic fashion, Thornin stares down the already annoyed man looking him straight in the eye, much like he would an angry bear.

[Hircine]

Growling savagely, the guardsman pulls the door open wide enough to snatch the parchment from Lann's fingertips. Slowly reading over the captain's missive, causes the man's eyes to widen in consternation. Gripping the vellum tightly the guard starts shaking in an uncontrollable fashion, as veins bulge in his neck and he starts turning a bright shade of purple. You fear he's had some sort of anxiety attack or mental breakdown when all of a sudden he returns to normal. After regaining control of his faculties he calmly crumples up the note and tosses it to the ground in disdain.

"I don't give a damn what Faringray says, no one is getting in to speak with Blackwater! Now I'm going to ask you and your associates one more time to move along. And should you make the unwise decision to disturb this house again, I'll make sure that you spend a few nights in the dungeons.", he hisses, slamming the door in your faces.

Perception DC 13
Getting a better look at the guardsman when he moves to snatch the correspondence from Lann, it's quite noticeable that his uniform is rather undersized for his large frame.

Perception DC 18
As the door is being shut several red splotches can be seen on the wood in the entryway. While only managing to get a quick glimpse, there is a strong possibility that it was blood.

Insight DC 15
Having interacted with more than a handful of Fallcrest guards this man's lack of respect for Faringray was disturbing. Every guard you'd come into contact with at this point either respected the guard captain or feared him. None were brazen enough to disregard a direct order from the man.

OOC: Lann
You get a +1 to the Insight check.

[18th Avenger]

The guard's hostility was completely unexpected. As was his reaction to the paper that Lann had produced. He chalked up the man's initiative and tiredness; maybe the guard had been at it for quite some time. The big northerner reminded himself to inform the good captain if they would meet once again.

But something clicked a tumbler in his usually-dense skull. The uniforms of the other guards of the town were immaculately fitted. No way should the guard's uniform have looked too shoddy.

It was then he took aim under the door's knob and landed a solid kick at it. The door wouldn't budge and Lann fought back a sudden stab of pain. Whoever had it made must have had a lot of money to afford such a solid door

"Thornin, Arakai; get that door open!" He snapped at them as he hopped on one foot. "Jessica, Sen; get ready! I got a bad feeling..."

[Hircine]

The rather uncouth behavior of Faringray's lackey sets off the usually calm and composed northerner. Without thinking Lann raises his boot in an attempt to break the door down. His armored foot connects with a mighty *THUD* sending splinters and wood fragments flying in every direction. However despite his best effort he was not only unsuccessful, but his extremity was now throbbing in pain.

On the other side of the door the guard's voice can be heard shouting, "What the hell is going on out there!?"

[18th Avenger]

The group knew that Lann was usually possessed of a mild and pleasant temperament. And as he possessed such a mild temper, it was perfectly reasonable for the big northerner in the kilt to meet the guard with this splendid rejoinder.

"SHUTCHER CAKEHOLE, YE PHONY, AND COME OUT 'ERE AN' FACE ME, MAN TE MAN!"

It was also one of the few times the group had heard Lann lapse back to the accent of his home region. And that only happened when he was upset. The big man threw in more insults, mostly towards the guard, his ill-fitting unifrom and the chastity of relevant members of his family. Lann kept the whole exchange fresh and spirited, including threats involving the creative placement of body parts as interior decoration into the repetoire.

Rolling to Intimidate

[roll0]

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen has little understanding of what's going on between the men, and no concept of whether the guard's behavior is normal or not. But Lann's outburst is the only excuse she needs; she has learned by now to trust the instincts of her companions and to stick the pointy ends of her javelins in whichever direction they ask her to.

She shakes her head at the big northerner's weak attempt at smashing down the door. He never had been quite as strong as he looked, and always seemed to discount Sen just because she was smaller than the men, even though she had just as much strength as any of them. When Lann gets busy cursing at the guard, she nudges him out of the way and squares up against the door herself, then takes a few steps back and charges into it with her shoulder.

Disappointingly, though, she isn't able to make it budge any more than Lann was, and she steps back having accomplished nothing more than giving herself a throbbing shoulder. The northerner's anger is starting to rub off on her now, though, and she draws two javelins, looking over the face of the house for a window where she might be able to climb in.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Slamming the door in the face of a dwarf is something you do not want to do, especially one that is overly grumpy and angry all the time. Before Lann had even said anything, Thornin was already pulling his axe out, and slung his shield over his arm. Seeing Lann try and kick the door open amused Thornin a bit, and he even cracked a half smile. After seeing Sen try as well, Thornin stepped up to the plate. He raised his axe high and aimed for the door knob to just try and knock it out of the door.

MBA against the door knob [roll0]
Damage - [roll1]
If he is able to knock the door loose, I'd like Thornin to be able to just push with his shield and open the door, ready for combat.

[Hircine]

The guard doesn't even bother responding to Lann's impassioned words, instead he seems to be conversing with some other party inside.

Outside the house Sen pushes Lann out the way, squares her shoulders with the intended target, and charges full speed hitting the door with a *thwack*. She reels back gripping her shoulder in pain wondering just how strong that wood really is.

Panicked by another assault on the door the guard yells hurried instructions, "Would you all hurry up! If you haven't heard we have a situation down here!

[Hircine]

Thornin steps forward, his axe already drawn and poised to strike. With a heavy handed swing he misses the knob by a wide margin but instead cleaves a large chunk out of the wood.

[onlie2005]

Jessica stays at her position and moves back. Immediately alarm bells rang in her head as she saw the guard's reaction. Pulling out her wand and staying back, she readies herself to cast a spell.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Spotting a window near the front door, Sen raises one of her javelins to smash it in. She remembers the others having chided her in the past for breaking things she wasn't supposed to, but given the beating they were putting on the door she assumes she is free to break anything she wants right now.

She first peers into the window to see if anyone is lying in wait. Once satisfied that the coast is clear, she smashes the window in with the butt of her spear and pushes the shards of glass aside.


Perception check: [roll0]

If she doesn't see anyone standing by the window looking like they're readying to pounce, then she'll try to smash the window in.
Strength check: [roll1]

If there are curtains so she can't see in, she'll smash it anyway (and look in after breaking it and pushing the curtains aside).

[18th Avenger]

Lann gingerly put weight on his kicking leg again as he looked around. The street was only just beginning to busy up, but the people around were looking at them askance, as if they were bandits or rabble-rousers. His open face frowned. Can't have that...

He watched his party slowly begin to fall into place. Jessica and Arakai took positions to brace themselves for any incoming unpleasantness. Sen and Thornin's first few cracks at the door proved futile, but he knew the surly dwarf wouldn't stop trying. The slender ranger, on the other hand, he noticed she began looking for alternative ways. And succeed. The nearby window gave under the blow of her spear butt.

This action earned her a fierce nod. Lann returned to shouting more insults into the guards inside, intent on distracting them from their actions.

Rolling To Keep The "Guards" Distracted (Bluff)

[roll0]

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin smiles as his axe knocks a hole in the door. He pulls the axe out of the door and raises it up again, smashing steel against wood, hoping to smash through the door and teach this "guard" a lesson.

MBA [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

[Hircine]

Finding the door to be an impenetrable obstacle Sen moves toward the window, a softer target. Using the butt of her javelin she breaks the glass pane and then pushes the fragments. Forcefully pulling the drapes down the horrific sight before the ranger is rather shocking.

Sen:
Chairs, tables, and shelves have all been pulled and flipped, strewn chaotically about the place, most of the furniture has been damaged in a search for something or someone. A patterned dark red carpet is soaked with blood and dragged haphazardly across the floor. Three prone forms stripped down to their skivvies have been haphazardly piled onto the rug, signs of trauma evident on their bodies.

While Sen is securing an alternative entrance and Thornin continues hacking away at the door, Lann is busying himself by shouting even more vulgar insults towards the individuals inside, hoping to distract them from their intended purpose.

Hearing the window break the guard in the living shouts out more frantic orders. "Abort! Abort the mission! We'll find the halfling after we've dealt with these interlopers! Now get down here and help me out!

[18th Avenger]

Lann's ears perked at the guard's pronouncements. In a blink, his hand wrapped around the hilt of the greatsword strapped to his back and pulled it free. He gripped the hilt of the weapon two-handed as he kept his eyes on the door.

"Thornin, get to that door's blind spot! We're about to have company!"

With Jessica at his back and Arakai at his side, Lann braced to meet the charge from within the house.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger
Sen hadn't been planning on going into the house so soon--she had hoped one of the men would go in first. But hearing that the guard is still alone downstairs, she realizes she has no time to spare. When she notices Lann bracing himself to receive a charge, she shakes her head "no" at him, and points in the window. Without waiting for his response, she bounds through it.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Hearing Lann giving commands, as well as the enemy guard throwing out his own, Thornin smiles a great, big smile, takes a few steps back, and charges the door, axe and shield in hand, ready to take out these annoying obstacles. Finally.....a fight!

Actions
Charge the door, [roll0]
Damage - [roll1] 19

Initiative roll, if needed, [roll2]

[Hircine]

With one final charge by Thornin the door finally falls, landing with a *thud*. Spinning on his heels the guardsman faces the dwarf, a look of grim determination gracing his countenance as he reaches for the sword on his hip. Moments later two sets of footsteps can be heard coming down the stairs, a man and a woman also wearing guard apparel glare angrily at the party. These new arrivals are followed by four thickly tattooed humans in red robes brandishing daggers.

The leader levels his sword at the party, "Let us dispense with these vile beings so we may finish our holy work."

----------------------------------------------------------------------
COMBAT! (OOC)
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, ER4, Sen, HR2, Salim, ER3, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER2, ER1

Please remember to edit your stats on the battle map to reflect stat changes, health, power point usage, etc. Also make sure to look at the terrain notes for the map as well.

[18th Avenger]

Lann cursed as Sen and Thornin burst in.

"We were s'posed to draw them out!" With his sword point leading, Lann advanced into the house, teeth grit in determination.

[Hircine]

Looking Sen up and down the woman closes the distance, believing the ranger will be easy prey. Clenching her mace tightly she tries to deliver a sidearm blow right into Sen's abdomen.

The swing is telegraphed allowing Sen to raise her javelin and block the incoming attack, much to the woman's chagrin.

"You heathens will regret getting involved in our business!", the leader snarls as he stomps across the room. Leaving the woman in the capable hands of his subordinate allows him to focus his wrath on the dwarf. Feinting left the warrior attempts to bring his sword down into Thornin's shoulder blade.

The attempted deception elicits a hearty chuckle from the veteran warrior as he parries the rather heavy handed blow with ease.

Seeking to take advantage of the already engaged Siren, the robed figure glides silently across the room, dagger poised to strike. Upon reaching Sen's position the ritualist's curved blade is thrust towards the ranger's lower back.

It seemed the ranger had eyes in the back of her head as she deftly sidestepped the incoming dagger.

Enemy Actions:
HR1
Move: Move to J9
Standard: Attack Sen with Mace
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Effect: Shift to K8

HM
Move: Move to G9
Standard: Attack Thornin with Longsword
Attack Roll: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]
Effect: Thornin is Marked

ER4
Move: Move to H9
Standard: Attack Sen with Sacrificial Dagger
Attack Roll: [roll4]
Damage: [4]

Your move Sen!
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, ER4, Sen, HR2, Salim, ER3, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER2, ER1

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen effortlessly knocks the woman's mace aside and weaves around the robed one's dagger. Clumsy humans, she can't help thinking. Hunting and combat always brought out the bloodlust her mother had taught her, and she felt the thrill of adrenaline coursing through her.

She shoots the woman with the mace an angry glare--the sort of look her companions never saw the otherwise cheerful siren make in normal circumstances--as if to say that she will not stop until the woman is dead. Then she thrusts a javelin at the woman. No more than an instant after the attack, she whirls around and plunges her other javelin into the robed man's chest. After the robed man crumbles to the floor, she steps back away from the woman with the mace.


Minor: Hunter's Quarry on Human Ruffian 1 (the lady)
Standard: Twin strike vs. Human Ruffian 1 & Evil Ritualist 4
Attack [roll0] vs. AC (HR1), [roll1] vs. AC (ER4)
Damage [roll2] to HR1 on hit, [roll3] to ER4 on hit
Move: If she hits and kills ER4, she will shift back to H9.

[Hircine]

Seeing Sen's javelin coming the woman gracefully tilts her head to avoid the incoming attack. She manages to avoid a mortal wound but suffers a long cut along her right cheek. Noticing blood dripping down the side of her face she glares back at the Siren, unbridled hatred in her eyes.

The robed man is caught completely flatfooted when Sen wheels around and drives a spear into his chest. He gurgles incomprehensibly for a moment before succumbing to blood loss.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Unfazed by the loss of one of his comrades the imposter guardsman charges towards Thornin with a howl of challenge and his mace held high. Again the stalwart dwarf fends off the clumsy assault waged against him.


Salim, you're not exactly sure what's going on but it's certain that battle has been joined. What will you do?
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, ER3, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER2, ER1

Enemy Actions:
HR2
Move: Shift to J3
Standard: Charge Thornin
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Effect: Shift 1 square

[Meltheim]

Samel and Salim

"You know brother, I am glad we have decided to finally leave the temple and spread the light of Pelor. It will be good to shine the light of Pelor into the darker places of the world, don't you agree?" Samel smiles, clapping his younger brother, Salim, on the back. Up ahead, he sees trouble. "What ... what is that there? Brother!" In a flash, Salim darts ahead, drawing forth his holy symbol and firing a beam of light toward the obvious aggressor.

OK, figured out his sheet. Here's Salim's attack.

Oh, and P.S. Samel will be speaking in DarkOrange

Move: Walk to G12

Standard: Radiant Vengeance vs HM

Attack HM: [roll0] vs Reflex

Hit: [roll1] Radiant damage and Salim gains 4 THPs

[18th Avenger]

Lurking large as life just in front of the door was a mercenary in dark armor brandishing a sword. Lann's advance quickened as he led by the point of his greatsword. His face was twisted in a snarl as he gave voice to a brutal war cry that filled the streets and was even audible from inside of the house.

Furious Smash to Male Mercenary at the front entrance (grid G, 9)
[roll0]
Furious Smash
Deal damage equal to your Strength modifier, and then choose one ally adjacent to either you or the target. This ally applies your Charisma modifier as a power bonus to the attack roll and the damage roll on his or her next attack against the target. If the ally does not attack the target by the end of his or her next turn, the bonus is lost.

[Hircine]

Salim hurries over to the scene of the disturbance and identifies one of the main aggressors in the struggle. While he is unsure what the problem it's clear that the man standing in the doorway doesn't have good intentions.

Drawing the holy symbol kept within his robes he fires a beam of light into the armored man. The radiant blast slams into the warrior sending him teetering back. Regaining his balance he simply brushes himself off as a scowl slowly spreads across his face.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Shuffling over into a flanking position the cultist swings his dagger hoping to catch the already engaged dwarf off guard. Thornin's defenses are more than adequate as he repels the robed man's cowardly attack.

Enemy Action:
ER3
Move: Move to E9
Standard: Attack Thornin with Sacrificial Dagger
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [4]

Samel and Thornin, you're up!
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, ER3, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER2, ER1

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin smiles as he sees all the enemies around him, he takes a step out from the middle of them, and swings his axe not only at the Merc in front of him, but tries to hit the ritualist behind him as well.

Actions
Move - Shift to F8
Standard - Hack and Hew
ER3 - [roll0]
Damage - [roll1]
If the First attack hits:
Human Merc - [roll2]
Damage - [roll3]

[Meltheim]

Samel

Following quickly after his brother, Samel rushes to the window and looks past the armored men (who seem well under control) to those in the back, and the robes they wear. He then raises his staff, shouting, "By Pelor's light shall ye be judged!"

He clears away some broken glass from the window with his staff and, with his outstretched hand, fires bolts of radiant energy toward the cultists. As an afterthought, he fires another bolt toward the mercenary in the doorway.

Religion check - Who are these cultists? Who do they worship? [roll0]

Move: Walk to I11

Minor: Clear glass away

Standard: Hand of Radiance at E1, E2 and HM

Attack E1: [roll1] vs Reflex (does not include any penalties for cover)
Attack E2: [roll2] vs Reflex (does not include any penalties for cover)
Attack HM: [roll3] vs Reflex (does not include any penalties for cover)

Hit: [roll4] Radiant damage

[Hircine]

Stepping into the doorway Lann rounds on the leader and drives the haft of his greatsword into the man's gut, knocking the wind out of him. While his opponent gasps for air the northerner emits a ferocious roar to embolden his compatriots.

Thornin takes a step back and swings his axe in a wide arc aiming for the mercenary and another of the robed men. His axe inflicts a fatal wound on the cultist who crumples to the floor in a heap.

The mercenary moves to sidestep the strike but mistimes his movement, suffering a serious gash to his side. Gritting his teeth he falls to his knees in a great deal of pain. Mustering his resolve he stumbles back to his feet, clutching his side with his free hand.

Samel seeing his brother getting into the action doesn't wish to be left out. He trudges towards the broken window and surveys the situation. Looking past the armored warriors he focuses his attention on the robed individuals in the back.

Opening his palm he unleashes three blasts of radiant energy. Two of the beams are off the mark, but the third blows a massive hole through the chest of a cultist. He slumps to the floor with a look of horror on his face.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsettled by the loss of his comrades the final cultist shakes in fear, but a glare from his leader forces him into action. Letting out a guttural battle cry he charges recklessly at Thornin his dagger flailing wildly.

The maniac's unpredictable attack pattern manages to confuse the veteran allowing the cultist to stab the dwarf with his dagger.

Watching the battle falling apart before his eyes the leader tactically retreats from the towering northerner to a more favorable position. Hefting his blade one handed he slashes at Sen.

Working past the ranger's defenses the leader brings his sword down through Sen's shoulder sending blood flying everywhere. Disoriented by the blood loss she stumbles away in a daze.

Gripping her mace two handed the female ruffian takes a swing at Sen's head. Her strike is misplaced causing a string of curses to come from her mouth.

Enemy Actions:
ER1
Move: Move to F7
Standard: Attack Thornin with Sacrificial Dagger
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [4]
HM
Move: Shift to H8
Standard: Attack Sen with Press the Advantage
Attack Roll: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
HR1
Standard: Attack Sen with Mace
Attack Roll: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

Sen the opposition has gotten the upper hand against you. How will you respond?
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER1

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen's mouth opens in a silent cry of pain as the false guard's blade smashes into her. She feels foolish for charging into the house ahead of the others; now she understands why Lann and Thornin always used to make her hang back when fights started.

Desperate to get out of the enemies' center of attention, she takes a step backwards, clearing a path from the door. With one hand she motions to the big northerner to come in. Once she's given herself a little room to breathe, she grits her teeth and shakes off the fogginess in her head.


Move: Shift to F9
Save vs. dazed: [roll0]
Free: quick sign to Lann

[Hircine]

Eager to escape the imposter guardsman's blade, Sen moves backwards to clear room for Lann to get into the house. Taking a moment to steady herself the siren shakes the cobwebs loose and is eager to get back into the fight.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Noticing the woman's discrete hand gesture the male ruffian moves to fill the now vacant doorway. Drawing back his left hand he tries to bludgeon Lann.

A loud thwack rings out as the blunt weapon connects with the northerner's skull. Fortunately the attack doesn't cause significant damage due to the ruffian losing his grip, but Lann is left in a daze.

Enemy Actions:
HR2
Move: Shift to G9
Standard: Attack Lann with Dazing Strike (Encounter Power)
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Effect: Lann is dazed until HR2's next turn and HR2 may shift 1 square

OOC: Samel
The red robes emblazoned with depictions of rats give these cultists away as servants of Torog, the King that Crawls.


Salim, Lann, Samel, and Thronin may all act now.
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, Samel, Lann, Thornin, ER1

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin, after tasting blood and hacking apart the first man and serisously injuring the second, gets a new found vitality. He shifts over tot he second man and swing at him once again, pressing his attack on the already injured mercenary.

Actions
Move - Shift to G8
Standard - Crushing Surge on HM [roll0]
Damage - [roll1], HM is marked and Thornin gains 3THP

[18th Avenger]

In the confusion of the ensuing melee, Lann was pretty sure there were reinforcements comig from the street. It took the form of a bolt of holy light and of a robed man shouting into the window Sen had broken. He backed away for a second, trying to shake the cobwebs from his head when the blow came down and knocked his world topsy-turvy.

But dazed as he was, the northerner never forgot an old adage that had been passed down to him from his distant father, who in turn had the advice passed down from his father.

When in doubt, press on and hit it!

The brawny warlord roared his fury in the form of more insults as he presented the ruffian with a thrust from the tip of his blade once gain.

Furious Smash To Human Ruffian#2 on G, 9
[roll0]
Bonus Conferred to Sen

[Meltheim]

Salim and Samel

"Salim - the cultists are Wormbellies! Worshippers of Torog! Smite them!" Samel calls out to his brother. The two of them each fire golden beams of light toward their foes.

Salim

Standard: Radiant Vengeance

Attack: [roll0] vs Reflex vs HM

Hit: [roll1] radiant damage and Salim gains 4 THPs

Samel

Standard: Hand of Radiance at E1, HM, HR1

Attack E1: [roll2] vs Reflex
Attack HM: [roll3] vs Reflex
Attack HR1: [roll4] vs Reflex

Hit: [roll5] radiant damage

If one of my targets dies before my turn, I will instead attack HR2

[Hircine]

Thornin having tasted blood in the water moves to finish off the wounded mercenary leader. His slash is parried by a timely flick of the man's blade. A sneer crosses the mercenary's as he shoves the dwarf back, "IS that the best you've got stunty!", he cackles.

Still disoriented from a blow to the head, all Lann can think to do is hit the man who struck him first. Using the flat off his blade he connects with the man's face, breaking his nose.

Salim moves to the other unoccupied where he and his brother unleash a coordinated barrage of radiant energy. Once the smoke clears many of the cultists have been severely wounded and the final robed man is out of the fight.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Gripping his side and breathing heavily the leader surveys the battlefield like a trapped animal. Moving around to gain better position on the dwarf he surges forward. A furious flurry of strikes gets Thornin off balance enough for the mercenary to slip past his defenses to try and land a fatal blow.

Having finally penetrated his adversary's defense the leader drove his blade right into the veteran warrior's midsection. Blood dripped of the mercenary's blade as he slowly withdrew it from the dwarf's bleeding chest cavity. Smiling wickedly he followed up his initial attack with a swift kick to Thornin's bleeding abdomen, propelling the dwarf backwards into a wall.

A growl of triumph escapes the mercenary leader as he holds his blade aloft. "Now you must see that our cause is righteous and we shall triumph against these vile nonbelievers! Gather your strength my brethren for we shall be victorious this day."

Still incensed by Sen's mere presence the female cultist circles around to assault her now wounded prey. A sly grin slips across her face as she raises her mace for the killing blow.

Already battered Sen is unable to evade the woman's mace which hits her square in the back. Agonizing pain shoots throughout the ranger's body as she falls to her knees. Confused as to how she ended up on the ground the siren struggles back to her feet. Each breath she takes is painful and with each passing second her vision becomes more blurry.

Enemy Actions:
HR1
Move: move to F8
Standard: Attack Sen with Dazing Strike
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage roll: [roll1]
Effect: HR1 shifts 1 square and Sen is dazed until end of HR1's next turn.

HM
Move: shift to G7
Standard: Attack Thornin with Press the Advantage
Attack Roll: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]
Effect: Thornin is pushed 1 square and dazed (save ends)


Sen, you're still in the fight, but how much more abuse can you take?
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, Samel, Lann, Thornin

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Having not yet managed to make any space to move around, and still pressed by enemies on all sides, Sen just focuses on keeping standing and hardening her resolve to fight. She frantically signals to Lann a simple sign that she had taught him in their previous adventures: "Heal!"


Standard action: Second Wind (+7 HP, brings Sen to 12--still bloodied--and +2 to all defenses until start of next turn.
Free action to signal to Lann

[18th Avenger]

Clearing the cobwebs from his head, he saw a bloodied Sen frantically waving at him. Thoughts of putting his opponent out of his misery could wait, delicious as it was. Now was the time to be a friend.

Lann laughed for her benefit. "Ah, Sen! Look at these pansies! Those goblins back on the road put up a harder fight! Look at this 'un!" He gestured at the human mercenary he was squared against. "How he could pass for a fighter is beyond me! That limping shaman could outfight him!"

Inspiring Word on Sen

He changed his grip on his greatsword and shoved at the human mercenary in shadowing the door, intent on pushing him back and into Thornin's axe range.

Opening Shove on G, 9. If successful, Thornin can move an extra square or make a melee basic attack on Human Mercenary
[roll0]

[Hircine]

Bleeding profusely and surrounded on all sides by insane cultists, Sen digs deep within to find a extra burst of vitality. Her stance also changes to a more defensive posture to better protect herself.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Glaring at Lann's tall frame standing in the doorway only ignites fury in the ruffian. "YOU broke my nose so it's only appropriate that I bash your face in!", he screams in a rage.

Loosing clutching his mace he brings the weapon forward with a great deal of force. A sickening crack is heard as the cudgel connects with the northerner's head. Beaming proudly he draws back his arm to survey the damage, only to have his grin erased instantly. Despite a direct hit Lann had only suffered a minor abrasion near his forehead.

Enemy Actions:
HR2
Standard: Attack Lann with Mace
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Thornin, Samel, and Salim may now put the hurt on these cultists.
Encounter Map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=4)
Initiative Order: HR1, HM, Sen, HR2, Salim, Samel, Lann, Thornin

[Meltheim]

Salim

Salim sees the young woman in danger, and moves with blinding speed. Focusing Pelor's powers through his weapon, Salim screams an oath at the female assailant and then darts through the window, slashing his sword visciously.

Minor: Draw weapon

Minor: Oath of Enmity on HR1 (roll 2x on melee attacks if HR1 is only enemy adjacent to me, keep highest roll).

Standard: Angelic Alacrity (encounter) on HR1
Effect: Shift to E8 (shift 1+Dex mod = 4)


Attack: [roll0] OR [roll1] vs AC, whichever is higher.
Hit: [roll2] damage

[Meltheim]

Salim - ACTION POINT

Spurred on by Pelor's grace, the Avenger once again strikes out against his foe.

Standard: Overwhelming Strike vs HR1
Attack: [roll0] OR [roll1] vs AC, whichever is higher
Hit: [roll2] damage, and Salim shifts to D8 and slides HR1 to E8

[Meltheim]

Samel

"That's it, brother, press the advantage!" Samel shouts to his brother, who has now engaged the enemy with his sword. "By Pelor's light, I strike at you!"

Samel also moves through the window, albeit with less grace then his more slender brother, and immediately finds a safe place in the corner. He sets his sights on the weakest of the attackers and smites him with the light of Pelor.

Move: Walk to K9

Standard: Sun Strike vs HM


Attack: [roll0] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll1] radiant damage and HM slides to F6

ACTION POINT

Standard: Sun Strike vs HM (if HM dead, then HR1. If HR1 dead, then HR2)


Attack: [roll2] vs Reflex
Hit: [roll3] radiant damage and target slides 1 square (I will determine when I know the outcome of previous attack and who this attack targets)

[18th Avenger]

Lann gingerly touched the abrasion on his forehead and smiled at his attacker.

"See that, Sen? The shaman hurt me worse'n this 'un. My turn now." The redheaded northerner stepped forward, blade resting on his shoulder, eyes glinting with brutal mirth.

"Ready to give up?" He asked the ruffian.

Intimidate on G, 8
[roll0]

[Hircine]

Things looked grim for the party when two cloaked men bearing Pelor's insignia on their garments burst onto the scene. The one in the red cloak screams something incomprehensible as he slashes at the female cultist, causing a grievous wound. Before the woman can respond her attacker's blade is driven right into her chest. A vacant expression crosses the cultist's countenance as she slumps over.

Not to be outdone the individual in the gold cloak points his hand at the cultist leader. Radiant energy explodes from his palm hitting the man right in the gut, knocking him backwards. Just as the man tries to right himself a second beam of light bowls him over.

Using the last of his strength to reach a sitting position he speaks to his deceased allies. "It would appear that Torog was not with us this day, acolytes. Our enemy has won the field this day but their victory shall only be temporary. My only regret is that I have disappointed mistress Mor--", he collapses prior to completing his sentence.

Realizing that defeat is all but certain the surviving cultist releases the grip on his mace, the weapon clatters noisily to the ground signifying the conflicts resolution. Striding forward with his sword resting over his shoulder, Lann inquires whether the cultist has surrendered. Remaining completely at ease he looks up at the northerner emotionlessly then shifts his attention to something on the floor, realizing what he must do. In a single swift motion he dives for one of the dagger’s held by the robed men, upon collecting the weapon he rolls away and springs to his feet.

“I will give you corrupt beings NOTHING!”, he declares as he brings the dagger across his throat. The cultist immediately hits the floor having gone into shock. Blood flows rapidly from the gash in his neck while he attempts to gurgle out words.

OOC: Everyone
Fortunately for you the cultist hesitated when he slashed his throat and has missed his Cortaid artery leaving you a small window of time to stop the bleeding. You’ll need three DC 17 Heal checks to stabilize him. Two aid another checks may be taken to improve other player’s rolls.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin kneels down next to the dying cultist, ripping some cloth from one of his fallen comrades, and staunching the flow of blood at his neck while the others do what they need to to keep it from flowing completely. "Be speakin' now, and I'll be makin' sure ye will have a quick death. Otherwise, I might be needin' to draw it out for a time.

Heal check just to stop the bleeding [roll0]

[Meltheim]

Samel

Gesturing with his staff, a soft glowing light surrounds the neck of the wounded cultist, slowing the flow of blood somewhat.

heal check successful:

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14744510&postcount=260

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen, having no knowledge of the healing arts and no desire to interrogate the man, stands by and watches the others try to heal him but doesn't offer any help. No matter how useful the cultist might be, she is too overcome with the bloodlust from battle to care.

[18th Avenger]

Lann sauntered over to the cultist who slit his own throat and began to help Thornin. He looked up at the new arrival, smiling like he hand't been in a brutal fight or received a mace to the forehead. Already he liked the bronze-skinned man who was already bathing their prisoner with healing rays.

"Thanks for the aid, friend. Things were lookin' sticky for us were it not for you and your friend."

Heal
[roll0]

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Although she still feels vengeful towards the cultist who had so recently been attacking her and her friends, Sen realizes that if the others are working so hard to save him he must have some value to them. So, setting her weapons down, she leans over and tries her best to staunch the blood.


Heal check (let's hope for an 18!): [roll0]

[Hircine]

Your effort to keep the cultist within the realm of the living falls short, despite a valiant effort from one of the bronze-skinned new comers. Shaking violently the man grins wickedly up at everyone present, attempting to mouth something but it's impossible to discern exactly what he's trying to say. After several more minutes his eyes roll back and his body ceases moving. The cultist is gone, taking whatever secrets he held with him to the grave.

Suddenly the sound of creaking near the staircase draws the group's attention away from the corpse. Leaning over the railing is a young woman just over four feet tall that appears to be in her mid-twenties. Her long dark auburn hair is neatly braided, held in place by innumerable silver clasps. She is wearing a patterned green stitched shirt and a tan linen skirt, her left hand strokes the hilt of a shortsword.

She surveys the gruesome scene that was once her sitting room without averting her gaze. After soaking it all in her eyes settle onto the five strangers standing amongst the carnage. Addressing the party, she speaks in a cold authoritative tone, appearing unfazed by what has transpired.

"I'm not familiar with any of you people and to be frank I don't really care, all I want to know is whether you've dealt with every one of those cutthroats who invaded my home?"

[18th Avenger]

Lann was on his feet and vainly trying to wring his hands free of blood.

"That we have." The big man waved a meaty hand vaguely at the human debris that distastefully littered the house's ground floor. "You would be Vzani Blackwater? Lovely house, poor guests."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen narrows her eyes at the halfling woman on the stairs and makes no other response. It seemed awfully convenient that the woman, who looked well-enough armed and clearly had been spared the mistreatment the other hostages had received, did not appear until after the fighting was over.

The siren taps Lann on the shoulder, and once she has his attention she points to the three people lying on the rug (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=14541990&postcount=112) off to the side, whom she had forgotten about in the heat of combat.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin wiped his hands and axe on the dead man's clothes to get the blood off and then turned his attention to the woman. "We be comin' to ask ye some questions. We were told that our comin' wouldn' be that welcome. Though we weren' expectin' this 'orrible o' welcome. Though, it were not because of ye, Ms. Blackwater, but these eejit's on the ground. And aye, they be all dead now."

[Meltheim]

Samel

The invoker tries to quickly read the situation, knowing little except that the fight was not entirely a surprise, and that there was a hostage situation. Turning to his brother, he says, "Salim, run back to the temple and inform His Radiance that we have dispatched several of the wormbellies and that there may be a cult emerging in Fallcrest. I will remedy matters here. Stay put until you hear otherwise from me." Salim nods, begrudgingly, then sheathes his sword and heads out the door.

Looking back to the others, Samel bows, then offers, "I am Samel, of the Pelorian Church, may his light shine upon you. Ms. Blackwater, is it? Is there any further assistance I may offer you, on behalf of the church? Are these ruffians inconveniencing you?"

Anyone looking at Samel will notice that his skin, though ebony, shines with an unnatural radiance. His eyes are bright and clear, and his hair and beard cropped close. His tabard is pristine, not showing a drop of blood or smudge of dirt. A chain shirt peeks out from underneath his golden vestments, and a stout staff is gripped in his right hand. He appears physically fit, but not too muscular. From his fighting technique it could be inferred that he prefers to remain at a distance, channeling the pure radiance of Pelor's light.

[Hircine]

For the briefest of moments a sardonic grin crosses her lips but it vanishes quickly. "Well then I owe you my thanks, strangers. I was forced to cower in a crawlspace when those braggarts showed up and murdered my security detail early this morning. I waited things out in the hope that the dead guards’ relief would show up and deal with the intruders. Of course Faringray’s lackeys never arrived so I had to plan my own exit strategy.", she says holding her shortsword aloft. "Only your timely arrival kept me from having to take that chance."

Sheathing her sword the halfling let’s out a sigh of relief. "I assume its poor etiquette to hold conversation with guests from afar, give me a moment and I will come down." With lithe grace the woman slowly descends the staircase, upon reaching the floor she walks over several corpses to reach your position.

"So who are you people exactly? I take it you’re not simple Samaritans since you all know my name, and I’ve never seen any of you before in my life."

Back on the street voices belonging to Fallcrest guardsmen are ordering citizens to step back. The sound of gravel crunching indicates that guards are surrounding the house. Once the shuffling outside stops a dwarf barks out orders to those in the residence, "A'right ye brigands we’ve got the house surrounded so donnae try anything funny. Ah want ye tae throw yer weapons doon and pit yer hauns up."

When he doesn’t receive an appropriate response he orders his men to breach the house. Moments later the Blackwater home is swarming with outraged, trigger happy guards that are training crossbows on the group. Their leader is a dwarf whose long grey beard is twisted in a single knot. Before he can say another word a guardsmen rushes inside, whispering something into his ear.

"Ye men stand at attention, Captain Faringray himsel' is gracing us wi' his presence."

As if on cue the captain crosses the threshold. He shoots each of you a dirty look, apparently under the belief that his trust has been betrayed. Once he takes in the rather macabre surroundings he softens clearly confused. "What happened here?"

OOC:Thornin
The dwarf is Murgeddin, another former acquaintance you had dealings with during your visits to Hammerfast. He has always been a stick in the mud and a sticker for the rules. Though what you recall most is that he's always been honest, at least in your encounters with him.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin, not knowing who it is he is talking to, continued in his normal fashion. "Dunna be talkin' to me like tha young lad. We be savin' this lass' life and ye better be grateful for it, she already be thankin' us. Now why don't you be backin' off yer battle-hungry guards before somethin' ill be happenin' to 'em." Poking Faringray in the chest as he talks and walking right up to the man, looking up at him as he gives him a piece of his mind.

After his tirade against Faringray, Thornin turns is attentions on to the other dwarf in the room, "Murgeddin, by Moradin's beard, I haven' been seein' ya in years!" He walks up to the dwarf, shaking his hand, "You be a part o' this guard then? How long ye been wit' these humans? I been around 'em far too long, startin' to smell like 'em now!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!" Thornin letting out a large, gut laugh...the likes of which none of you have seen, but on a very rare occasion.

[Meltheim]

Samel

"Samaritan? I clearly just identified myself as a Pelorian . . . Samaris doesn't even have any followers in this portion of the Empire . . . this woman is clearly addled." Samel mutters under his breath.

As the Captain enters, Samel turns to face him, then respectfully stands, openly displaying his tabard, declaring himself a priest of the Church of Pelor. "Good sir, I am not affiliated with this band - I merely came to lend a hand. I am not aware of any prior arrangements or engagements they have had with you, these dead brigands, or this woman. That said, they appeared to be coming to her rescue, as I am sure she will attest."

Samel tries to read the expression on the Captain's face, to see how he should proceed.

Insight on the Captain: [roll0]

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen moves to stand behind Thornin, and purses her lips at the captain petulantly as the dwarf berates him. Other than that she does not say or do anything for the moment.

[18th Avenger]

At Sen tapping at his shoulder, Lann was just about to tell her to be patient when hell (in its more organized variant) broke loose in the form of the Nentir Guards, with Faringray and a bass-voiced dwarf who preceded the captain into the Blackwater residence and demanded they put down their weapons.

He'd been a little overwhelmed by the sudden appearance of crossbowmen pointing arrows at him. Thornin beat Lann towards answering the Captain's questions. The dwarf's approach and general method towards debriefing made the big northerner grit his teeth.

"'Scuse me," he said to Vzani as he hustled towards where Thornin, Sen and the newcomer, Samel, stood trying to explain what exactly happened.

"I can explain, Captain," began Lann as he presented himself to Faringray. He gently, but firmly, pushed Thornin to one side. "Somethin' beat us here! Some goon in the uniform of your lads tried to shoo us of while his friends in bathrobes were gathered in the sittin' room, tryin' some sorta ritual."

[Hircine]

It takes a great deal of restraint for the captain not to lay into the uncouth dwarf. "I am a middle aged man, dwarf and would prefer to be addressed by my name or moniker. If you weren't aware I am Nathan Faringray, Captain of the Fallcrest guard, at your service.", he says with a slight inclination of his head.

"Why don’t you tell your men to stop leveling their arms at the people who saved my life like the dwarf asked?"

"Where are the guards I assigned to stay with you?"

She directs the captain’s attention to the barely clothed pile of bodies callously tossed onto the carpet. All the color drains from his face when he sees the still forms of his colleagues. Faringray stands rigidly with a look of unrestrained fury twisting his usually stolid visage. Holding the amulet of Bahamut around his neck stems the tide of emotions flowing through him, acting as his pillar of strength in a particularly trying time. Reining in his emotions he reverts back to the refined dignitary you spoke with earlier in the day. Finally realizing that his subordinates still have their weapons trained on the group, he orders them to stand down. Each guard immediately lowers their crossbow, awaiting further instruction from the captain.

"I'm sure you all now know that several of our brethren fell in the line of duty this day. All other assignments are to be put on the back burner until this matter is resolved. I want the scene investigated thoroughly, a canvass of the neighborhood, and any witnesses interviewed. I expect a full report to be on my desk by this afternoon and updates every hour on your progress.", he orders in an impassioned tone you've never seen from him before.

Vzani who had been relatively quiet could hold her silence no longer. "Isn't it insult enough that you're holding me prisoner in my own home and that I've just nearly been killed by a hit squad. Now you expect me to willingly open up my home to your clumsy lackeys, and let them take what little privacy I still have."

"Believe me Ms. Blackwater the last thing I want to do is cause you more misery, however three good people died defending you from these assassins."

Grasping how petty she is being the halfling breaks off eye contact, forcing her gaze downwards. Vizani stares at the floor so intently it appears that she bores holes into the floorboards. "I-…I’m sorry Faringray-"

"You have nothing to apologize for Ms. Blackwater, I certainly haven't been the easiest person to deal with of late."

Letting the air clear for a moment, Lann finally hustles over to Faringray to give his report. He explains that the cultists were already present, posing as guards when the group arrived. Sensing something amiss they forced their way inside, interrupting the scoundrels search for Vizani.

"Your group showing up to meet me this morning has turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Without your timely intervention here those scoundrels plot would have gone off without a hitch. I am more grateful then you'll ever know for avenging the deaths of my men."

Once Lann has finished talking. Faringray promptly notes the Sun God’s symbol emblazoned on your chest. "Ah, a priest of Pelor, it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I personally wish to express my thanks for helping bring those murderers to justice.", he commends genuinely. "Were you able to learn who was pulling their strings or what Deity they worshiped?"

"Captain, I think I’ve got something here!", a familiar voices shouts enthusiastically.

Looking over he nods in acknowledgment, "What've you found, Anlow?"

"Well I was checking the bodies and I happened to recognize one of the robed fellows. He is…uh or was Meklan Webb, a fishermen who lived right here in Fallcrest."

"How do you know this?"

"That’s easy, sir. I collared him twice for drunk and disorderly conduct and once for public urination. Several complaints were also brought up concerning late night meetings he was holding at his house with a group of supposedly shady looking characters. A couple of us staked out his place for a week or so but found the rumors to be unsubstantiated."

"A sweep of his shanty should still take place just in case he left any incriminating evidence behind. Once you’re done here I’d appreciate if your group would look into the matter for me."

OOC:Thornin
"Whit's it been nine, ten years since ah last laid eyes on ya, Thornin. The days certainly haven't been kind to either of us, have they old friend?", he says with a hearty chuckle. "Aye, ah joined up right efter ma family moved to Fallcrest three years back. And while I'd love to spend more time catching up with ye, now isn't exactly the time. Ah usually have a drink after ma shift with a few others at the Blue Moon Alehouse, you'd be welcome to join us if you like."

Samel:
Normally it would be nearly impossible to get a read on the usually granite like man, but today he is an open book. His eyes are having a hard time focusing on anything for more than a few seconds. He has tensed up, firmly affixing one hand to his wrist. The outer calm exuding from Faringray is a facade, on the inside he's devastated, having a tough time coming to grips with what has transpired.

Insight DC 15:
Vzani's behavior has been strange considering she could have perished. Her unfaltering gaze at the carnage certainly suggests she is no stranger on a battlefield.

[Meltheim]

Samel

Nodding his head in response to the Captain's question, Samel responds, "May the sun shine upon you, Captain. These wretches owed their allegiance to The King Who Crawls, known by most as Torog - a truly horrible deity whose members defile themselves and revel in torture and suffering."

Leaning in closer, Samel says to Faringray only, "I do not want to think what these creatures would have done to Ms. Blackwater had this party not arrived. Followers of Torog know no boundaries when it comes to inflicting pain. Please let me know if your men discover any tattoos or other markings - it may give me a better idea of what we are dealing with here"

Samel clasps his hand on Faringray's shoulder, and looks into his eyes. "Should you need it, know that Pelor can offer you succor and solace. If you open your heart to him, you will find no end to the relief He offers."

[Hircine]

"Cultists of Torog, you say.", he muses while studying the corpses that litter the room. "I wonder if this attempt on her life is connected to what she witnessed a couple of weeks ago..."

Faringray is snapped out of his train of thought when the priest rests a comforting hand onto his shoulder. "Thank you for offering but I am already a devout follower of Bahamut."

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen moves back into the and looks over the guards' shoulders as they search the cultists, trying to spot anything they might miss.

Perception: [roll0]

Once satisfied that she has searched them as well as she can, she returns to the others and lingers around, fidgeting while they talk. When Faringray mentions the shanty, she signs where? and taps Lann's shoulder.

[18th Avenger]

Insight
[roll0]
Lann looked down at the petite ranger's tugging. "Well, Sen, it appears we've stumbled upon something bigger than we've ever imagined. Our next stop is apparently this shack."

He turned back to the tired-seeming Faringray. "We'll get right on it, Captain. Just show us where and we'll investigate to the best of our abilities." The big northerner turned to Vizani Blackwater. "I'm sorry to say this, miss, but we're not done with you. We'll be back when we can to ask you about your abduction an' escape. Call it a hunch, but we might even be able to tie the kidnappings with all this cult activity."

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin hand-waves away the Captain, "Fool humans thinkin' they know everythin'." After turning his attention to Murgeddin, he answers the dwarf, "I be jus' as I 'ave been, waitin' for me time to come. But I will be takin' ya up on that offer o' drink later tonight, drink is always welcome now adays." Thornin pats Murgeddin on the shoulder and waits to see what will happen with his party, and what their next assignment will be.

[Hircine]

Before Faringray can utter a syllable Anlow cuts in, "His place was near the docks around the Lower Quays if I'm not mistaken. Should you require an escort my services should be available to you.", he says looking to his superior for approval.

"That’s fine. Once you’ve had a chance to look around I’d like you to notify me of your findings. If there’s nothing else, I must be off. I have the unenviable task of telling three families their loved ones won’t be coming home this eve. Sergeant Murgeddin, I’m leaving you in charge of processing the scene."

"Yes, sir!", the dwarf bellows, offering a crisp salute.

"Private Matheson, please send word to Helgird that three bodies will be coming in shortly. Tell her that these departed souls deserve her undivided attention, and if she can have them ready for burial in seventy-two hours I’ll consider it a personal favor."

Snapping to attention the young guard hurries off to complete his assigned task. Without another word Faringray takes one last sorrowful glance at the fallen guards before spinning on his heels and trudging off, his head held low.

"A'right ye lazy maggots ah want every inch of this place searched, lea' nae stone unturned!"

Minutes later a guard emerges from the kitchen, his crossbow in the back of a tall, dark copper scaled dragonborn. "Sergeant, I caught this shady lookin' fellow breaking in. I'm willing to bet he's one of them cultists. Probably thought he could sneak in and clean up, isn't that right?", the guard goads. "Guess we should be thankful that most criminals are stupid enough to come back to the scene of crime, eh?"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin's eyes narrow and walks right up to the dragonborn and places his axe at its neck, "Look lad, a lot 'o good men be dead on account 'o yer fellows. These soldiers may have their hands tied by their Cap'in, but I be havin' no such restraint. Tell us wha we wanna know, lad, and I won' be cuttin' yer head off right now."

If you want, the dragonborn can make an insight on Thornin....but he won't have to roll very high to know he is telling him the truth :smallamused: Thornin isn't intimidating him, he is being very serious and quite calm about this statement, scarily calm actually to everyone else in the group that knows him (which of course includes his old dwarf friend as well)

[Meltheim]

Samel

Glancing toward the dragonborn, then at his dwarf interrogator, Samel laughs. "This one does not bear the marks of one who follows Torog. More likely he's simply taking advantage of a situation and failed to notice the guards swarming over this place."

Samel chuckles softly to himself at the dragonborn's poor timing, then sighs as he rubs a hand through his hair.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Sighing to himself at his stupidity as the guard catches him unaware, the dragonborn shakes his head, places his talons on it and goes where he is prodded! Walking into the room his eyes widen at the carnage before him and the sheer number of armed and blood soaked people!
Glancing down at the dwarf a sneer in his eyes, "Don't threaten me short arse unless you want to lose that arm!" he snarls, nodding at the priest of Pelor, "He's got it right! Bloody bad timing! I have no idea what's going on here and I certainly ain't no cultist!" His eyes flick around the room. "So if you'll just let me on my way no one will be hurt and we can all forget this ever happened!" He slowly lowers his hands, making no sudden moves!

[18th Avenger]

Sense Motive on the Dragonborn
Result (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=14859920#post14859920)
Lann was about to speak to Anlow when his attention was caught by the unfolding drama. Not surprisingly, Thornin was laying it rather thick, with his axe to the dragonborn's neck and all intent evident on his bushy face. Thankfully, the darkskinned Samel was proving to be a cool head. He was beginning to like him already.

"Ease off there, Thornin. Let him up. Harm isn't on his dance card."

He sighed and made a mental note. A talk with the pugnacious dwarf was starting to be overdue.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

When the dragonborn appears, Sen follows Thornin to its side. Happy as always to follow along with whatever her comrades are doing, she glowers at the newcomer and raises her javelin threateningly.

When Lann and the other newcomer intervene, however, she backs off a bit. It is true that the dragonborn does not look much like the cultists...although he doesn't seem particularly cooperative, either. She decides to keep her distance and hold off on forming in impression about the dragonborn until after the others have talked to it.

[Hircine]

"Aye, lad I think the priest be right, he donnae match the description of these cultists. He's probably just some bumbling thief or a busybody lookin' to snoop around. Whichever it's we donnae have time to deal with it now, so just let im go."

Growling slightly the guard lowers his weapon and hurries off to rejoin the investigation.

"Ye caught a break today, dragonborn. Though if I catch ye again, know that ye'll receive no mercy from me.", the sergeant declares, narrowing his eyes so the scaly reptile understands his message.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
The dragonborn spreads his hands wide and cracks a huge smile, fangs clearly on display, a spark of lightning crackles across. "Of course officer! See this is all one big misunderstanding! I'm just a concerned citizen, interested in the well being of my fellows! And if I see you again officer, I will give you my undivided attention! If possible, the smile gets even wider and more lightning flashes across his fangs, but the smile never reaches his eyes. Spinning to Thornin, a knife appears in his hand in a blur, And you, you hairy faced little maggot! You pull an axe on me like that again and you'll be lying bleeding in a gutter! You're the big man when I've got a crossbow at my back aren't ya! Kallik, furious at getting caught, focuses all his attention on the dwarf!
OOC
Kallik is angry and embarrassed! He wants to save face and will stare down/challenge Thornin if he has to, but most of you would realise that would not be ideal as he is outnumbered and out gunned!

[18th Avenger]

Lann realized that things might be coming to a head right at this second. Thinking fast, he planted his body between the knife-wielding dragonborn and the veteran dwarf.

"A'right, a'right! That's enough, both of ye!"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Something happens that no one has ever seen Thornin do when faced with an accusation like that.....nothing, sort of....

He steps up to the Dragonborn again, walking right up to the dagger pressing it against his armor so they are touching...."Ye think I be fearin' death, boy?! And I'd be takin' ye on anytime lil' lizard, but I don' be likin' to attack children....offends me senses. Now if ye be done wit' all yer blusterin' we got some work to be doin' fer the good 'o people, not jus' our greedy selves. Why don' you be runnin' along little one, an' let the work here be done by tha people who matter."

With that the dwarf turns his back on the Dragonborn and walks out of the house.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Sen is taken aback by Thornin's response. Normally she laughed at the dwarf's way of speaking and acting, but this time it was... frightening. She was happy to not be on the receiving end of it.

Once the dwarf leaves the house she follows, and makes for Anlow, the guard who said he could lead them to the house by the docks. She approaches him and uses her two fingers to pantomime walking, hoping the man can take them there quickly.

[18th Avenger]

Lann's mouth flopped open and close, like that of a fresh fish newly brought to the market. By now, he was used to Thornin's temper and blunt attitude. Whatever deity made the gruff dwarf must have broke the mold in order to not flood the world with his ilk. Rubbing the back of his neck, he tried to get another word out but found he couldn't.

The brawny warrior closed his eyes and took a deep breath before turning to the dragonborn. "Ah, worry not about him. That's how Thornin says 'hallo'." Queasy-looking as it was, Lann's smile was returning. "Ser Anlow over there was gonna walk us to the docks. Would ye like to join us?"

[Meltheim]

Samel

Looking at the guards as they walk away, Samel turns to the others. "Would you mind if I accompanied you as well? I would be quite curious to learn more about this cult, or anything related to them. Plus, I could keep an eye on this one for you" he says, with a nudge toward the dragonborn's direction.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

While Lann and Samel talk, and before the group gets moving, Sen takes some time to write out her two cents on her slate, assuming the newcomers might not understand her otherwise. Once she finishes she passes it to Lann. "might need to SNEAK into fisherman's house. dragon man might be useful. if he CAN sneak." When Lann and Samel look up from the slate, she shoots a skeptical-looking glance at the dragonborn.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Not quite sure what to say to the dwarf's intense stare and threat, Kallik watches him walk away, he shifts his grip on his knife, before quickly slipping it away into a concealed sheath. Those still present see a slight change in the dragonborn's stance as he relaxes a fraction. He glances at Lann, "That's his way of saying hello? By the gods he needs to relax and save that anger for his enemies. I don't like being threatened!" Kallik glances around at the bloody carnage, "What the bloody he'll happened here? I saw the crowd outside and thought I'd sneak in to ... er... see if anyone needed help..." he finishes weakly. He looks again at Lann and at Samel too, "Listen, you guys spoke up for me with guards and tried to calm down your psycho friend, I owe you. I heard you guys talking about a cult and this guy down at the docks, I might be able to help you with that, just keep the dwarf away from me until he can talk withsomething other than that axe! He catches sight of the written note, "And yes I can sneak thanks.... that guard must have had a stealth potion or something..." he mutters under his breath.
OOC
Streetwise to see if I know anything useful about the cult, dead guy or the docks.
Streetwise- [roll0]

[18th Avenger]

"Way I see it, given what you've done or, in the case of Kallik here, tried to do, I extend a hand for aid." Lann smiled at Kallik and Samel. "A different perspective's always welcome and it's good to have a bit of help from above."

"With regards to what happened here," the big man began, remembering what led them here. "We were following a lead on something preying on halfling caravans coming in to Nentir. The lady who owns this house," he gestured towards a rather angry-looking Vizani Blackwater. "Got away from the cause an' were on our way to ask her when we found a Torogian cult who killed her guards and started dancin' in their dress robes in her sitting room." He shook his head. "Terrible times, really. Now we're on our way to the docks to search around the shanty owned by one of the corpses."

The big warlord turned his green eyes back to Anlow. "Ah! Ser Anlow! If only we could meet under better circumstances. Anyway, our new members have been brought up to speed, so we're ready to leave. Unless any of us has something else they'd rather be doing." There was a note in his voice that seemed to say 'I highly doubt that we've anything better to do'.

[Meltheim]

Samel

"I think that you are taking me where I need to go. It seems as if there is something dark about these raids, and definitely with this cult." Samel stops for a moment, then says, "Pelor tells his followers to 'always go where the sun doesn't shine.'"

Samel pauses for a moment, "Hmm, that can't be right" he says, watching one of the guards stifle a laugh. "Anyway, bad translation I'm sure. Ok, shall we go?"

[Hircine]

"Aye, I wish we were meeting under more favorable conditions as well. I lost three close friends today and there wasn't a thing I could do to save them." He glances over at the bodies, a look of despair evident in his eyes. "Barnaby's wife is due in a couple of weeks, he told me a few nights ago over drinks how excited he was to be a father. Now these vile cultists not only steal his life but they will keep a child from ever knowing their father."

"I'm sorry about that. You've got your own set of troubles and probably don't wish to listen to me ramble on. It appears your group is ready so let's be off."

After collecting the dwarf who was waiting outside, Anlow leads the group through the outdoor market, which he highly recommends for its fresh fish and produce. He also hints that several stalls occasionally have magical equipment and rare adventuring gear. The next notable landmark he comments on is the Lucky Gnome Taphouse, an establishment known for its hard liquor favored by porters, fishermen, and laborers. Should you choose to visit the establishment he warns you to stay away from its proprietor, Kelson, who is a rather unsavory character.

As the party continues down the dirt road Anlow sidles up to Lann, in the hopes of speaking privately. "Are you sure it's wise having that dragonborn and dwarf...together? Those two looked ready to kill each other back at the house. I'm also not buying the dragon's his concerned citizen routine, it all seemed too convenient and rehearsed to be true. I've known people like him in the past and they were nothing but bad news. I'd be careful keeping the dragonborn around, he has the look of a career criminal to me. Anyway let's change the subject. I notice the young miss and that rather aggressive half-orc from this morning aren't with you, why is that?"

Before Lann can respond Anlow points out a rather rustic looking shack near the pier. "That's the place!", he exclaims.

OOC: Kallik
You know nothing about the dead cultist or the sect he's working for. However you've heard of a gang of troublemakers that lurk around the Lower Quays, the River Rats. These street toughs and thieves look for any opportunity to pilfer from the warehouses or roll a drunk in a dark
alleyway.

[Meltheim]

Samel

Though quiet, Samel's mind races with thoughts about the events he witnessed, the possibility of a cult of Torog gaining strength in Fallcrest, and the unique makeup of this odd group he had stumbled into. When the guard suddenly pulls up short, shouting that they've reached their destination, Samel snaps out of his reverie.

"So ... who exactly are you all anyway? Thief-catchers?" Samel asks, genuinely curious why the City Guard isn't simply handling this matter themselves.

[18th Avenger]

As they made their way from the house and through the fish-scented bustle of the docks, Lann remained silent as he let Anlow vent for the sake of his lost friend. The big warlord was young yet, but was perceptive enough to know that it might be any of his friends who would soon meet their ends. The thought sobered him and his usually cheerful face grew somber.

And just as he was about to answer where the last two members of their party went, Anlow announced that they were within walking distance of a crumbly-looking shack at the end of the pier. Lann gave it a rather dubious look.

He clapped the soldier's shoulder with a one of his big gauntlet-covered hands. "Thornin hasn't tried to kill me yet, so I think he'll listen to me. And I don't judge books by their covers, so I think Master Copperdance will be no problem." The grin on his face seemed to be bigger than was usual. "Go on, give your friend a last good-bye, we'll take it from here."

As the party eyed the ragged structure, the big redhead heard one of their newest members pipe up with a question on their identities. Lann looked to Samel. "Well, you could call us that. It's part of an expertise we were scarcely aware we had." He took off one of his gauntlets and scratched his head before replacing it. "Usually, we're adventurers. This is our first job after a few days just laying about the Nentir Inn. If you ask me, it's as if Kord has took it upon himself to punish us as slackers." His moon-face was thoughtful. "One thing leads right into another," he mused softly.

[Meltheim]

Samel

"Ahh, that is how many of us come in to our calling. The light of Pelor reveals a path through the darkness for you, and the wise man follows it. I myself had thought to be a farmer, yet here I am." Samel beams, literally - light seems to emanate from his ebony visage and bright teeth - at an opportunity to discuss his faith (unsolicited, of course) with another.

Then, the seriousness of the situation reasserts itself as Samel looks to the others to take the lead.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

While Lann keeps on talking as usual--the northerner seems thrilled to have found a new traveling companion who is more talkative than the siren and the dour dwarf--Sen eyes the dilapidated shack suspiciously. She creeps around the outside of it, trying to see or hear if anyone is inside.

Perception: [roll0]

Once satisfied that she's checked out the place enough, she interrupts Lann and the others. She points to herself, and then simultaneously covers her mouth with one finger (as if to make a "shoosh" sound) and pantomimes tiptoeing with her other hand. She holds the palm of her hand out at the others--Lann recognizes the sign for "wait"--and then, after a moment's thought, waves at Kallik to follow her. Then she tries her best to approach the shack unseen so that she can look in the windows or door.

Stealth: [roll1]

[Hircine]

"I thank you for the offer, but if the roles were reversed Barnaby wouldn’t have rested until he had answers. There will be a time for tears and mourning at a later date. Right now I am obligated to see this investigation through to the bitter end. While you check out the residence I’ll canvass the area, hopefully gaining some insight on our dead cultist." Without waiting for a response the young guardsman hurries off to question potential witnesses.

Once Anlow is gone the party decides to check out the cultist’s filthy squat. Approaching the rotting, windowless wooden shanty you discern no movement from within. Circling the small dilapidated shack it becomes apparent that the only way in or out is through the padlocked front door.

A group of laborers unloading a nearby cargo vessel watch the group curiously for a few seconds, before a rather surly porter shows up and orders them to get back to work.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Trailing along with his new found companions, Kallik keeps a wary eye on the dwarf, as well scanning the crowd for any obsevers taking special interest in them as they move through the city down to the docks. Passing through the less salubrious areas and approaching the Lower Quays, Kallik realises they are entering teh River Rats territory. Stepping up to Lann, he speaks, Just to be aware, this area of the docks belongs to the River Rats, a lcal gang, they ain't much to worry about unless you're alone or drunk, so probably won't bother us, but they may have eyes on us and if they feel they can take us they may chance interfering! He steps back and focuses his attention on the shack, he watches Sen admiringly as she melts into the background and checks out the building, at her wave for him to follow he simply gestures, thanks but no, you've got this. He grins at the news of the locked door, Ahhhh, time to make myself useful. Keep an eye out to see if anyone's taking too much interest in what we're doing. he glances around to check that Anlow is gone, And whatever that guard said to you Lann, I hope you got some trust in me. He slinks forward to the door, his bulk belies the grace of his movements and hunkers down in front of the lock. He reaches to a pouch and delicately pulls out a soft leather wallet, unfolds it and pulls out to two slim slithers of metal. He studies the door for a moment and then starts to work on the lock.
OOC
Perception to see if the lock is trapped in anyway-
Thievery to pick the lock [roll[1d20+10 including bonus from thieves tools

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin walked with the others silently. He didn't have much to say on anything, and decided it would be better if he didn't speak, for fear of what it might lead to with the young, cocky dragonborn. As the appeared to be getting ready to burst into this shack, Thornin tightened the grip on his axe and held his shield closer to him, waiting for the word form their leader to go running inside.

[Hircine]

Kallik sits in front of the lock studying its intricate design for several moments before finally going to work. Inserting his tools the dragonborn works his magic and in less than a minute's time has the device removed.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
A small grunt of satisfaction escapes the rogue as the lock clicks open. Slipping his tools back into their wallet and then pouch, a knife slips into his hand, seemingly from nowhere. Glancing back at the others, be beckons them forward and pushes open the door, craning his neck to peer inside the shack.

[Hircine]

Pushing the creaky wooden open reveals the cultist's cramped and filthy living arrangement. Your olfactory senses are immediately overpowered by the horrible stench coming from two buckets of spoiled fish placed near the door. Loose floorboards and rotting dry wood draw attention away from the numerous flies buzzing around. A large carpet decorated in symbols to Torog is in plain view. There is a three legged table in the center of the room covered with various documents. Tucked away in a corner an antique desk sits surrounded by two glowing runes carved into the wood. The adjacent corner is lined with bedrolls most likely belonging to the group you dispatched earlier.


Passive Perception 19:
There are two pairs of shining jaws hidden beneath the floorboards at the shack's entrance.

Passive Perception 20:
Part of the carpet appears to be sinking into the floor.

OOC: Everyone
I've added a map of the cultist's residence to the spreadsheet. Link (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ArV_dKMpcV5adExSdEhUcGNZLWxUcHVCOFlmOFhOU mc#gid=5)

[Meltheim]

Samel

"Hold a moment!" the invoker says, holding one arm over his nose while gesturing wildly with the other. "By the light of Pelor, I believe I see something at the doorstep. Perhaps a trap?"

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Samel's warning stops Sen in her tracks. As the others move towards the door, she hangs back behind them and tries to peer into the shack from over their shoulders--although she can't make out much. With the memory of the beating she recently took still fresh in her mind, she decides to let her more heavily-armored companions enter the house first.

[18th Avenger]

The darkskinned invoker went forwards of his own accord. Lann directed Thornin to follow him. Given the size of the dwelling and the dwarf's stockiness and ferocity in close quarters, it seemed only sensible to the big man. Especially since his greatsword which required great swings for optimum effectiveness.

"Hang on, did you say traps?" The big man called into the dwelling, luckily not getting hit by the rankness. "Have master Copperdance look into it, y'never know what comes of messing with such things."

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Hearing his new ebony friend's advise, Thornin decided not to do what he was keen on doing and just rush into the room. With a "Hmph" he looks around the room, trying to discover what the man was talking about.

Perception [roll0]
HA! Wow, rolled my passive anyway, oh well :smallamused:

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Freezing at the sound of the Pelorite's voice, Kallik peers more closely at the threshold of the shack,Foolish amateur, how could you miss that! you hear him mutter under his breath. Slipping the knife into it's concealed sheath he again reaches for his belt, this time drawing out a different set of tools, these also small, but slightly more robust than the lock picks. He examines the trap and then attempts to disarm it.
Thievery [roll0] including thieves tools bonus

[Hircine]

Carefully removing a section of floorboards from the entrance reveals two leghold traps hidden beneath. Had Samel not noticed these insidious traps you shudder to think what might have befallen the party.

The dragonborn grumbles angrily, chiding himself for not seeing the snares himself. Sheathing his knife he draws a probe from his belt to inspect the snare. Analyzing the device Kallik comes to the conclusion that the easiest way to render the trap inert is by tripping it. Using a piece of wood pried from the floor you trigger the pressure plate on both leghold devices, making them useless unless reset.

OOC: Everyone
You each gain 50xp for disabling the leghold traps.

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

The siren squats down and examines the tripped trap curiously, with her head cocked to the side. She remembered watching her mother set snares in the forest long ago...this looked much more complicated.

Standing back up, she draws two javelins--now feeling even more wary about this place--and stands at ready behind Thornin.

[18th Avenger]

Rather than enter right away, Lann rested his rump by the entrance, hand kneading the hilt of the greatsword on his back. The day was becoming unpleasantly warm, which made the reek more pronounced.

As much as he would have wanted to enter, the big warlord was again hit by the realization that he might not be the most prime combatant in such close quarters. He made a face and a mental note to pick up a dagger or a club the next time he came across some money.

But nothing bad seemed to have happened in the tight confines; no screams or even curses from Thornin. Lann assumed their new partner had made it safe (with a bit of help, of course).

"Start looking, lady and gents," the redheaded warlord ordered. "If they trapped even a shanty like this, there must be something worth hiding. Leave nothing unturned. Break things as a last resort. That means you, Thornin." Lann chuckled at his own poor joke.

[Megatron46]

Kallk
Nasty traps them, designed to cripple and maim rather than make a clean kill! Obviously there's something in here worth protecting. Drawing the heavy bladed knife again the dragonborn steps over the traps and enters the dwelling. Casting his eyes around he focuses his attention on the table in the centre of the room, ignoring the desk with the glowing runes as his knowledge of the arcane was rudimentary at best. There's some magic crap in here, he calls out, It's beyond me. He carefully crosses to the table and studies it and the documents on it.
Perception [roll0]

[Rjanag]

Sen (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhiK-JsHDA), Siren Ranger

Seeing the dragonborn move into the room, Sen also steps in gingerly. She looks around the room, trying to ascertain whether there is any place in the small dwelling for someone to be hiding to ambush them. She keeps her distance from the desk, hoping the Pelorite can deal with the strange glowing runes around it.

Perception: [roll0]

[Hircine]

Kallik noticing some documents lying on the table heads over to investigate. As he steps onto the carpet it sinks into a seemingly bottomless pit. Immediately the dragonborn's arms reach out, grasping the nearest segment of wood to keep from falling in.

A string of curses escape Kallik as he loses his grip and plummets into the pitfall. Seconds later a loud thud followed by an agonized growl indicate the group's new ally is still kicking.

Trap Actions:
Attack Roll:[roll0]
Fall Damage: [roll1]
Effect: Kallik is prone
Effect: The trap is revealed.


OOC: Kallik
It's a DC 10 Athletics check to climb out of the pit.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
You hear the air turn blue as a stream of foul language flies up from the pit. The Gods be damned! Kallik curses as he stands up and brushes himself off. He glances around the bottom of the pit to see if he was the first to fall into it before getting out a small grappling hook and flinging it up the hole and clambering out. As he surfaces he glares at everyone! Not a word.... any of you! he growls. Perception to check the bottom of the pit [roll0]
Athletics to climb out [roll1] Including bonus from climber's kit.

[Meltheim]

Samel

Samel rushes forward as soon as his newfound ally falls into the pit. "Friend dragonborn, are you injured?" Seeing the copperskinned man climbing up, Samel extends a hand to help him traverse the last few feet. "We must all be careful. It seems that these followers of Torog are quite paranoid."

Samel scans the room as he helps Kallik up, seeing if he can glean anything else from their surroundings.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[18th Avenger]

"Oh, dear."

Lann heard the crack of breaking wood and of a weight falling through a hole. The big man hurried inside to find Thornin and Sen starting to look down at a hole in the floor which emanated curses. It seemed he didn't need to order his them to help Kallik from the hole, for Samel had taken the initiative.

He wiped his nose at the stench of dried fisherman's musk and worse as he looked around. His green eyes alit on a rather incongruous bit of furniture, the desk. Just looking at it, the redheaded warrior had the impression that he didn't want to look at it too closely.

"That desk in the corner, friend Samel. Mayhap you could give it a look-over?"

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Grasping Samel's offered hand, Kallik pulls himself out of the hole. My thanks friend, only a few bruises to my back and my pride. he says to the invoker, then turns to Lann. Well, now I've disarmed that last trap we should check out that table full of documents.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin smiles at Lann's joke. That be exa'tly wha I be thinkin', he thought to himself. He readied his axe to start smashing when the dragonborn stepped forward, triggering a trap and falling in a whole. Thornin couldn't help but get a big grin on his face, "Well, not quite the big thievin' lizard ye think ye be, huh? Fell in a wee lil' hole, did we?" He chuckles to himself as he raises his axe and starts smashing things around the room that might be hiding something.

Roll attacks on things? If so here are a few:
[roll0], dmg [roll1]
[roll2], dmg [roll3]
[roll4], dmg [roll5]

[18th Avenger]

As Thornin went and started tearing furniture apart, Lann's resulting smile was queasy.

Luckily, Kallik was just fine and pointed out the table full of documents. This made the redheaded warlord sigh. None of them were academics by any stretch, though Samel seemed to have a background in it. Some holy men were at least well-read.

But he squared his shoulders and found the one chair which had escaped Thornin's gleeful property damage, pulled one of the musty-looking leaves of paper at random and started to read.

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen is not as confident as Kallik that the traps had all been tripped, and so she hangs back behind the flurry of destruction that is Thornin. She knows the dwarf has a way of making things...happen... and when they do, she hopes to have him in between her and whatever's happening.

[Megatron46]

Kalik
Glaring silently at the dwarf, Laught it up short arse! Subtle as a brick you are! he thinks, but wisely stays quiet after blundering into such an obvious trap. Leaving the glowing runes to the invoker he picks up some of the documentsand helps Lann sift through them.

[Hircine]

Witnessing the dragonborn plummet into the pit sends the invoker rushing over to lend aid. Thankfully after a few moments Kallik resurfaces relatively unscathed from his fall, though it appears his mood has worsened. Samel extends a hand, pulling the copper skinned man back to the surface.

Once his new acquaintance is safe Samel moves to inspect the runes safeguarding the desk. Thornin on the other hand chooses to investigate using his axe. The dwarven warrior whirls about the room like a cyclone destroying every inanimate object in his path. Chairs, cupboards, and even floorboards receive a taste of Thornin's cold steel. When he is finished the already neglected shack is left in quite a state. His seemingly wanton furniture massacre bears fruit when a large sack of coins falls from the ruins of a storage cabinet.

Lann, locating the sole chair that had survived his comrade’s spree, quickly pulls it away before Thornin could reduce it to kindling. Setting his chair close to the table the northerner takes a seat so he can start going over the parchments scattered across its surface. He is soon joined in his effort when Kallik approaches the table and begins sifting through the paperwork. Unconfident that all of the traps have been tripped Sen decides to stand by the door, looking for anyone paying the group’s search undue attention.

OOC: Samel
Your analysis of the wards reveals that anyone crossing the runes is attacked by a sonic pulse that can temporarily disable them. Deciphering the runes will uncover the trap’s command word which can then be used to allow the speaker through.

OOC: Thornin
Hefting the bag into the air you estimate their are at least fifty gold coins inside.

OOC: Lann & Kallik
Many of the papers are rambling pieces written by a fanatical follower of Torog. Among these zealous writings are detailed sketches of Vizani Blackwater's house. In addition a timetable of guard shifts for the halfling's protective detail turns up. Upon closer inspection you find the seal of Fallcrest on the document. The last relevant discovery made is that the cultists devised five different plans on how to capture their target.

[18th Avenger]

With the papers spread out in front of him, Lann sat still as the grave, mind reeling to process all he read.

"Those bastards..." There was a note of grudging respect in his voice. "They planned well enough."

He stood up and began gathering up the papers. Whatever happens, we have to get this to Faringray. He ought to be in a position to do something about this. We'll handle the slavers at the blunt end. Lann turned to Kallik.

"Here. You found these, you get to hold on to 'em." The big man handed the dragonborn the bundle then looked out to the group. "That desk? Has it been checked out? Or can we leave it for the moment?"

[Meltheim]

Samel

Looking somewhat perturbed, Samel is silent for a moment. "The desk . . . yes . . . these runes here are not good." Seeing that the others are probably interested in specifics, Samel adds, "It looks like if the trap was triggered, it would disable whoever sprung it. If I can find the command word, I might be able to ....."

[roll0] to identify the command word and disable the trap

"Uh ... RUNUS DISRUPTUS!" he shouts, his hands outstretched. After nothing happens, he scratches his head. "Kallik, think you can help? I can't seem to make heads of tales of these runes."

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen, who never did have much of a head for magic, sticks her tongue out after Samel's failed attempt at divining the nature of the runes. She hops onto the table, and then points over the runes and to the nearby desk. Looking at Samel and the others, pantomimes a jumping motion. She pauses for a moment, looking as if she is waiting for approval, but from the looks of it she will jump unless told otherwise.

OOC:
Moves to E4. I'm assuming there is some table left to stand on after everything Thornin did to it...but if not, she'll just jump from the floor instead.

[18th Avenger]

With his head tilted in Sen's direction, Lann simply could not understand what the ranger was getting at. He let her know this right now.

"Sen, in the course of our association, this has to be one of the times you've lost me. Could you get in writing? And Master Copperdance," he turned to the big dragonborn. "Maybe you can help Samel out?"

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Rifling through the papers, Kallik nods at Lann's words. Clearly they were well organised despite these surroundings and seem to have had some kind of inside help among Faringray's men. He looks a little taken aback as the warlord shoves the documents at him, Ahhhhh, yes, well I'll hold on to them, but I try to avoid too much contact with the guards. That desk though must have something good to be warded like that.
As Samel studies the runes Kallik ambles over, tucking the bundle into his leathers. Seeins Sen, Kallik holds up his hand quickly, Hold on there, these might still activate just by a body passing by. Let's have a look, if you think it safe, he nods to Samel, before hunkering down and studying the runes, he reaches for his tools and attempts disarm them, desperate to regain his pride after falling into the pit.
OOC
Thievery [roll0] Inc thieves tools bonus.

[Hircine]

Approaching the runes, Kallik settles in front of the magical traps to try and temporarily disrupt them, so whatever is inside the desk can be retrieved. Drawing his tools once more the dragonborn scratches at several important looking inscriptions around the ward, which sends a shower of sparks shooting out of the arcane circle.

Moments later the blue light around the runes starts to pulsate uncontrollably, until it fades completely. Kallik quickly wipes away sweat accumulating on his forehead before hurrying toward the now unprotected desk. Forcefully pulling the drawer of the lecturn outward, the dragonborn is disappointed to only find a rolled up piece of parchment within. Taking the document you make your way back over the dormant runes to your allies.

OOC: Kallik
Unfurling the folded parchment you inspect the letter.

It Reads:
Meklan, your success in locating the runaway halfling has not gone unnoticed. Our mistress has deemed you worthy of being rewarded once the woman is returned to us. To aid you in this no doubt difficult endeavor, a band of Torog's most zealous followers has been dispatched. Expect them to arrive by boat within the week.

I'm certain our prey has spoken with the forces of law so anticipate resistance and plan accordingly. We've reached out to a contact within the guard who'll provide you with valuable intelligence for your assignment.

When you've apprehended the target bring her to the island in Nentir River. Head to the abandoned tower where you'll hand the girl over to our agents. After you've familiarized yourself with the orders contained in this letter destroy this correspondence.

Embrace your agony, for only through pain can you carry out our lord's will!

- Scalpel

OOC: Everyone
You all gain another 20xp each for briefly disrupting the runes.

[Meltheim]

Samel

"An insider, hmmm." the priest says thoughtfully, rubbing his hand over his bald head. "I am conflicted. On one hand, I feel it is my duty to inform the Captain that there is a traitor in his midst. On the other hand, my loyalty is to the Church, not the City, and Pelor has charged me with carrying out justice directly."

Samel looks to the others for their opinion.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
That was close, those runes were trickier than I expected, he thinks to himself before scanning the letter he had found. Well, here's proof they definitely had help from within the guards and also where the trail next leads. He reads aloud the content of the letter for all to hear. Just to keep things smooth with the local powers here, I say we drop this stuff off to Faringray and then head on to the island in the river find out a bit more about these people, the letter mentions rewards, maybe we can get some of that!

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen watches in wide-eyed fascination as sparks fly from the runes that Kallik is disabling. After he finishes, she cranes her neck over the big dragonborn's shoulder to read the letter he finds.

At Kallik's suggestion of turning the letter in to Faringray and then heading to the island, she immediately dashes out of the room, not wanting to waste any time in getting to their next destination. She doesn't look back until she's already run a good hundred or so meters (at which time, she slows down to let the others catch up).

As they are walking, she takes out her slate and takes her time in writing out a message on it. THEY WANT HALFLING -- WE SHOULD BRING FAKE PRISONER. She holds the message out for the others to read as they are walking.

[Meltheim]

Samel

Once the group catches up with Sen, the invoker reads her lettering. "Nice hand, by the way. And a fake Halfling prisoner ..... hmmm" he rubs at his chin and looks at the group He's too tall, I'm too dark and too tall, she's too tall and mute, he's too tall and a dragonborn, he's .... well he's just got a beard he thinks to himself.

"I have an idea." Samel says, a twinkling in his eye as he grins at Thorin.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin was fairly quiet throughout all the investigation and trap disarming....that wasn't really his "thing", he read Sen's words, but didn't think anything of them. Then the new dark-skinned man started looking around the room at everyone, and Thornin noticed that his eyes settled on him. For a moment, they sat there, eyeing each other and Thornin not knowing what the Pelorian was thinking. Then the words escaped from Samel's mouth, "I have an idea", and Thornin's eye were quite confused at first.....but went very wide after a moment of thought by the old soldier. "OOOHHHHHH no! Dunno be thinkin' wha' you be thinkin' there. I'll not be used fer yer idiotic "bait" lil man. Ye just use tha big brain 'o yers fer thinkin' 'o some other plan." The gruff dwarf seem to grow a little and grip his axe a little tighter, as if he expected everyone to jump him at once and try to make him up.

[18th Avenger]

"For once, someone not me coming up with the idea. Smooth thinking, Sen and Samel."

Lann quipped as they walked away from the harbor to find Faringray. He kept his eyes out, looking for Lt. Anlow. Thinking he spied him in the distance, he waved him over to them, shouting his name as Thornin shouted that he would notgo along with Samel's idea.

For some reason, it was no surprise that the taciturn dwarf would be a little resistant to any form of ruse. So, he hit upon an idea. "Think about it, Thornin; if you go along with our new friend's plan, not only do you get close enough to use your axe but you also get the lion's share of the reaping." Lann grinned down at him, like a salesman clinching a sale. "You're always goin' on about how you kill more'n us combined; time to put your money where your beard is."

[Meltheim]

Samel

Nodding in agreement with Lann's statement, Samel inquires, "Growing up in the church, I haven't seen many dwarf women around. Do they have beards as well? I've heard stories, but I prefer the truth of it. If they do have beards, then we don't even need to shave you. Just put on some makeup, stuff a bit in your shirt ..." Samel tails off, not noticing Thornin's expression.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin begins to relax a little at the thought of being in the midst of his enemies and being able to just swing wildly at them while they can do nothing about it. And then he heard Samel's words, and things went bad for the invoker very quickly. All at once Thornin was next to him, knocking the backs of his knees so that he was now kneeling, so he could look him in the eye and talked just loud enough for the man to hear him, and grabbed his shirt, "Don' ye EVER be talkin' about shavin' a dwarf's beard, 'spec'ly mine. I'll be lettin' ya off this time, but let this be yer warnin'. Next time me axe flies on its own." With that he lets go of Samel's shirt and steps back to the other side of the room, in an even more sour mood than before.

[Meltheim]

Samel

From his new vantage point, eye-level with the dwarf, Samel finds himself remembering his brother's admonition, that being cloistered really does limit one's ability to socialize well with others. "Easy, easy, friend" Samel says, making a placating gesture toward the dwarf.

"Perhaps a large cloak could work? Something like this," Samel says, gesturing to his tabard of Pelor " provides cover over my armor, but still lets my hands be free. I'm sure we could find a large hooded cloak and cut open the sides, giving the illusion that you were "bound" but in reality your hands are free to . . . how did you say it? 'Let your axe fly on its own'?"

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin still wears a stern expression, but seems to cool down a bit at the mention of something other then anyone touching his beard. He seems to think for a minute, taking in this new information. "Now tha we could be doin', a nice, big cloak to be coverin' me up armor an' weapons. Then when they be comfortable an' at ease, I'll throw me axe inta their chests." The idea of using his axe again seemed to brighten upt he dwarf some.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Sniggering to himself at the thought of the arrogant dwarf being made to dress up as a female, Kallik is about to join in the teasing when he hears Lann calling over Lt Anlow. Wait a minute, Lann. Be careful who you talk to. This guy might be the cult's inside man. We gotta keep things to ourselves. As Thornin shoves Samel over, Kallik glares at the dwarf, Touchy! he thinks before extending a hand to Samel, helping him up.

[Hircine]

Seeing the parting departing from the cultist's abode, Anlow ceases his interview of a dockworker to catch up to the group. He calls out multiple times to get your attention, to no avail. By the time he catches up to you he is doubled over and completely out of breath.

*Huff* *Huff* "If you don't mind could you please wait a moment?", he asks politely while trying to gather himself. After gathering himself he straightens up so he can converse with you.

"I take it you found some pretty damning evidence the way you were tearing out of there. Don't worry I'm not planning on holding you up for long, I just wanted to relay what I found out. Most of the people on the docks brushed off my queries, and the few who stopped to talk didn't provide much new information. The only useful tidbit I got was that our deceased cultist friend hadn't been seen out on the water lately. To follow up I checked with the harbormaster who said Meklan hadn't gone out on his vessel in over two months."

Anlow shrugs his shoulders in defeat. "Alas that's all I learned, I'm hoping things on your end will yield better results. So where are you headed anyway?"

OOC: Lann & Sen
The cultist's change in behavior coincides with the string of abductions Faringray confided in you earlier.

[18th Avenger]

Bluff
[roll0]

As soon as Anlow made his way over to them, Lann knew that Kallik's suspicion was well-placed. Much as he liked the young lieutenant, Anlow represented a factor that threatened the safety of the town, to say nothing of the greater danger to the region. He was already racking his brain for an excuse.

Then he had an idea.

"Lt. Anlow, there you are!" Lann hurried over and took him to one side. "Oh, have we found plenty." He bent down and dropped his voice into a whisper.

"It was an inside job, the cultists' operation," he hissed. "What's more, we have reason to believe that those involved are meeting with this one merchant in the Quarter. Maybe you could go investigate and call down justice there if you find anything?" The warlord's eyes were hard and sincere, even when it sort of hurt Lann to lie to the lieutenant.

[Hircine]

The young guardsman hangs on your every word, seeming to fall for the story of untruths you're feeding him. Then all of a sudden the excited look in his eye disappears, replaced by skepticism and doubt.

"You're not a very skillful liar, Lann. Just look at you, sweating bullets, avoiding eye contact, and your constant fidgeting gave you away. Why would you try to deceive me? Everything I've done is to try and further our investigation."

[Megatron46]

Kallik
The rogue steps forward and slings his arm over Lann's shoulder and lightly punches his arm. He looks at Anlow and speaks, Listen friend, don't take Lann's discomfort here as anything untrusting of you! It's just that, well, he leans forward slightly, On the battlefield this man is an inspiration! But he's not used to subterfuge, the thought that their might be an inside man, a traitor, has shaken him. What he speaks is the truth, he is just struggling to accept that not all people are as honest as he and you.
Bluff- [roll0] and fingers crossed

[Meltheim]

Samel

Seeing Lann's nervous behavior, Samel walks over to try and remedy the situation.

"Private Anlow, was it? My apologies. We're quite confused as to exactly what is going on with this cult. There were many traps, which thankfully we were able to disarm - but it appears that they were quite paranoid, beyond the usual amount, that is. What my friend here is trying to say, but probably said poorly, is that there is some concern this is a larger organization, not just a small handful of Torog followers." Samel pulls out a small piece of parchment from his satchel, along with a bit of chalk.

"Now, a learned man like yourself is quite familiar with the different religious groups in the area, so I won't insult you by dumbing this down. What we have here," Samel makes some sketches with the chalk, using lots of squiggles and religious iconography, "is the multiheaded serpent of Balaaalaal, who is widely revered as the lead heresiarch of Torog's grand septon Mugubushu, who if you remember from your lessons is one of the 14 archdemons of the western quadrasphere, and a direct descendent of Jaron the Gaunt, formerly known as Jaron the Giant, who invoked the Tome of Tombs at White Tree."

"We saw runes that looked like this," Samel continues, "which, based on my knowledge of ritual work, indicates that they were planning a sacrifice in the merchant quarters, but only if they had 1/14th silver residuum especialiaum, which as you know is a key ingredient to summoning circles by those of the Feydark, and . . . " Samel continues on, using his knowledge of religion and history to try and confuse Anlow.

"So as you can see, it is imperative that you investigate all of the merchants who sell any kind of metal or potion, as they might be the suppliers for this operation. This is, no doubt, why they attempted to kidnap Ms. Blackwater - because she has connections and could reduce the chance of suspicious purchases. Now obviously we wanted to come to you immediately, so that you and your team could spread out without attracting attention. Who knows what these cultists could do if they got on to the scent that we were hunting them?"

Here goes ....

Religion: [roll0]

History: [roll1]

If it works, great. If not, then I just said a mouthful and added fun RP :smallbiggrin:

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen looks on, transfixed, as Samel spins the intricate lie. Her head moves to follow every stroke of the invoker's chalk, like a cat watching a bug flit about. The wide-eyed, open-mouthed look on her face belies deep fascination paired with utter lack of any comprehension whatsoever.

So convinced is she by Samel's fib about the importance of investigating the merchants (even though she can't understand it) that when he finishes, she hops to her feet herself and starts purposefully walking towards whatever direction she imagines the merchants' quarter to be in.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin sat watching the spectacle that Samel was putting on for the young private. He chuckled to himself at he watched Anlow's face try and follow what Samel was saying, but twist into confusion as the words hit his ears. Thornin knew it was all just troll-piss, but it made him chuckle none-the-less. "Look boy," Thornin started, "tha point is, we don' know ya, not do ye be knowin' us. With this here cult, they be lyin' and keepin' secrets and hidin' who they really be until it suits them. Bottom line son, we don' want you to be gettin' all wrapped up in this, whether or not ye be a part of it. Either way ye could be gettin' yerself killed an' I don' want to be the one to hafta kill another soldier wit' me axe, too many have died today. So why don' ye be goin' elsewhere an' let us be sortin through this mess o' secrets. When we need ya, we will let ye know." Thornin ends with a salute to the boy, showing him some manner of respect so that he can save face and not act so insulted.

Thornin also notices Sen started to walk away and catches her arm, giving it a little squeeze. Not to harm or hurt her, but to let her know to stay put for a minute.

Thornin is being completely honest here. He doesn't really lie well, and we wouldn't really even if he was wanting to, that just isn't who he is. So if you roll any insight checks or anything, know that there is no lying or deception on the part of Thornin.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
His grin widens as Samel starts to speak...before a slightly glazed look comes into his eyes as the invoker just keeps on talking! When Samel begins to wind down his speech the dragonborn nods enthusiastically, trying to support his speech's impact on Anlow.

[Hircine]

Scratching his head in confusion, Anlow simply nods at appropriate intervals, trying not to appear unintelligent. But the more Samel explains the further perplexed the young guardsmen becomes. By the end of his exposition the priest has gotten Anlow completely turned around.

Slamming his fist into his open palm he exclaims,"Your absolutely right! I'll round up a team to drill every merchant in the Market Green! Don't you worry I'll find out who the cultist's supplier is."

Just as Anlow is about to depart Thornin, having remained silent to this point decides to speak up. He exposes Samel's story as being nothing but a bunch of hogwash. The dwarf goes on to state, rather frankly that the guard would only get in the way or be killed should he continue investigating.

"Oh, I see how it is. Faringray enlists your aid and now you think you're better than Fallcrest's sworn protectors. Fine! You can find somebody else to push around when your group needs help in the future."

Without another word Anlow shoots each of you a dirty look before storming off, in quite a state.

[Meltheim]

Samel

The invoker's eyes blaze brightly for a moment, as he watches Anlow walk away. Rounding on the dwarf, Samel whisper-shouts "Why, under Pelor's golden sun, would you do a thing like that? Now, not only is Anlow not helping us, but he will likely work against us. He could have us arrested for obstruction even!"

Crossing his arms, Samel takes several purposeful strides away from the dwarf. After a deep breath, he shakes his head. "Well, we'd better get to Faringwray before Anlow does, so we make sure he gets the story straight from us."

I was totally afraid of what Thorin's move would do. Oh well :smallbiggrin: Let's see what we can do with the Captain!

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen shrugs at Anlow's outburst, and nods at Samel's suggestion that they hurry to Faringray.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin seems to be content with how things went with the young private. "Look sun-man, I've been in an army before an' I be knowin' his type. Fresh-faced, wantin' to be savin' tha world, chargin' inta situations he be knowin' nothing about. I don' care if he be hatin' me, if he stays alive because I be pissin' him off, then I did me duty. I've seen too many youngin's die because they didn' listen to reason and thought they be knowin' better. I dunna want more blood o' the innocent on me hands." In a rare show of emotion and speaking quite quietly, Thornin almost seems to not be a stone figure with no emotions. He seems to be remembering something in his past that greatly affects him. But as soon as it is there, it is gone and his armor is put back on again. "C'mon, lets go see ifin' we can't be explainin' to Faringray wha' happen and why I be sayin' wha' I said." With that, Thornin walks off in the direction of Faringray.

[18th Avenger]

Lann clapped Samel on one of his broad shoulders, his usually cheerful face dark.

"Thornin will get his," grumbled the big warlord. "'As a chip on his shoulder, he does. Don't know what it s, exactly. But it has to be fairly big." Lann looked rueful. "All the time we'd known him, Thornie's yet to share. But don't press him, Samel. It's a dangerous prospect, fighting him." A cast fell over Lann's face, evidence that he had attempted.

"But for now, he has a point." He clapped Samel's shoulder again. "Sooner we get to Faringray, the better. C'mon, Sen." With a friendly gesture, Lann clanked after the rolling Thornin.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
Shaking his head at Thornin's comments, A valuable resource wasted! he thinks, Kallik shrugs and follows the others, patting the documents tucked safely away.

[Hircine]

With the wide eyed recruit no longer following you around like a stray dog, you're able to move with impunity toward the old castle nestled atop a steep-sided hill overlooking the entire town. Walking along the winding road up to the keep you pass a large number of townspeople either headed the same way or making their way back to the township. Upon reaching the hilltop you notice that a long line has formed at the keep's portcullis.

Getting in line at the back you watch as certain individuals are permitted entry to the keep while others are rudely rebuffed by the guards. Those unable to gain admittance leave in a huff, usually cursing under their breath. Your attention is then drawn to a band of ill equipped warriors, covered in dirt and dried blood that appear to be nursing significant injuries. A man dressed in regal finery stands among them, though he shows no indication of being in whatever skirmish his protectors were a part of.

Much to your annoyance the line moves at a trickle's pace, and to make matters worse you have the misfortune of standing upwind from a farmer's livestock. An hour elapses before people begin getting processed faster at the gate. A short time later you are finally close enough to make out the Markelhay coat of arms situated above the portcullis. Finally after standing patiently for nearly two hours one of the guards motions for you to come forward with his halberd.

"State your business!", he demands authoritatively as he looks the group over.

OOC: Lann
You recognize the leafless oak tree adorning one of the warrior's shields from a brief stop you made in the village of Winterhaven during your journey south.

OOC: Everyone
If you want to backtrack to have conversation amongst yourselves or any of the other people in line feel free. I also want to apologize again for this longer than anticipated delay.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
As they join the line and the time passes, the rogue scans the crowd, judging size, speed, wealth, just to keep his hand in. When he notices the group of soldiers, soundly beaten, he nudges Samel, They look they had fun! breaking from the line he strolls over to them, What the hell happened to you guys? You seem to have run into something big and ugly!

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen follows Kallik over to the other group and looks them over, her eyes full of curiosity. While Kallik speaks, she slowly walks in a circle around them, sizing them up from all sides.

She looks up momentarily when she hears the others reach the guard and the guard demand to know their business. Surely Lann and Samel will take care of it, she thinks, and refocuses her attention on the bedraggled warriors.

OOC:
Sorry about the delay!

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
As they stand in line, Thornin gets more and more impatient. Moving two feet every five minutes doesn't sit well with him...he is a dwarf of action, not standing around. When the guard beckons them over, Thornin is quite ready to get moving along. "Ach, finally we be movin' along." When the guard greets them, Thornin of course speaks up, "By the gods lad, what you all be doin' up here?! It be takin' ferever to get up here! We be here to see Faringray, official business lad." Motioning over to the men and the one that wasn't touched, "who be 'em soldiers and why they all bloodied up? And who is the fancy one standin' next to 'em without a scratch?"

[Hircine]

Standing completely still with their eyes trained straight ahead most of the soldiers brush off your inquiry, save for one man who turns to converse with the hulking dragonborn. Studying the gray-haired veteran you are taken aback by the sheer number of scars marring his face. His leather armor is covered in puncture holes from some kind of spear, and mixture of blood and dirt. The mace dangling loosely from his hip is also coated with blood.

“I’d like to apologize on behalf of my fellows, we lost three of our number during the trek south and they’re not taking it too well. And to be honest who could blame them; most of these kids are just fresh faced teenagers with little to no combat experience. I was the only seasoned warrior that could be spared for this assignment, though I feel my presence has done little good.”, he states letting out a long sigh.

"Anyway our force if you can call it that was accosted on more than one occasion along the King’s Road by several tenacious groups of kobold brigands. These normally cowardly reptiles have become bolder in recent months, stepping up attacks on caravans and other high risk targets. Unfortunately that’s all I’m allowed to say on the matter. Good day to you, sir dragonborn." Inclining his head slightly to Kallik the man returns to his men.


*************************

Frowning slightly at the dwarf, the guardsman simply shrugs his shoulders. "Can’t be helped, this is a day Lord Markelhay sets aside every week to hold court, where he settles disputes between Fallcrest citizens. In addition we have laborers, guardsman, and other important people coming and going at all hours. You can imagine how busy it gets around here."

When Thornin mentions Faringray's name the guard’s demeanor changes immediately. "Ah, then you must be the adventurers the captain told us to let through. We’re sorry for the inconvenience, you may head inside whenever you're ready. In regard to your other question, I'm not at liberty to divulge information regarding other visitors, sorry.

[Meltheim]

Samel

Samel takes note of the warrior's tale of increased kobold activity. He remembers all too well how unsafe the roads can be, and how easily gnolls burned down his family's farm. He decides he will make a point to mention this increased activity to the Church - perhaps his brother or some of the other armed Pelorians can help if the City Watch cannot.

With respect to Thornin, Samel decides it is better to simply follow in the dwarf's wake, rather than to try and assert himself up front in situations such as this. By choosing to follow, rather than being pushed to the side, Samel convinces himself that he remains in control of the situation. When the guard responds favorably to Thornin's browbeating, Samel gives a small smile and follows along inside with the rest of the group.

Samel hopes that he and the others can get an audience with Faringwray relatively quickly, before anything else happens.

[Irish Musician]

Thornin Anvilshield (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhjjopwHDA), Fighter of the Lost Clan
Thornin listened to the guard explanation of the wait. "Hmph, wha tha Lord should be doin' is lettin' people duke it out wit' each other. Tha be how we settled things back in my homeland. Two dwarfs be havin' a disagreement, they fight it out and the winner settles it. Then that be that. But I guess ye 'umans be doin' things differently." After the guard lets them pass, Thornin salutes the guard, "You just be doin' yer duty lad, dunno ever be sorry fer tha'." With that Thornin walks into the castle and in the direction of Faringray.

[Rjanag]

Sen

Sen is surprised when the grizzled-looking warrior explains that their injuries were inflicted by kobolds--she remembers having encountered kobolds here and there before the group came to Fallcrest, and they had always been easy to dispatch. Perhaps the little critters were becoming more dangerous.

Seeing Thornin, Samel, and Lann move past the guard, she tugs Kallik by the arm and hurries off after them and into the keep.

[Megatron46]

Kallik
He glances down as Sen follows and then circles the group, curiosity in her eyes, Inquisitive that one, he thinks, make a good thief, curiosity like that! His thoughts stop as the veteran starts to speak, My condolences, it is never easy to lose friends or colleagues, especially on a job, the rogue remembers a number of jobs boing sour and friends being taken by the law or killed by rivals.... If I had my own crew I'd run it better, look after them... he thinks. He is about to say more to the scarred soldier, when Sen tugs his arm and heads off to follow the others. Kallik nods I return to the soldier, casts a glance at the man in the finery and then turns to follow Sen. He glances down at the ranger as he catches her up, Hmmm, what did you make of them? Especially that one all dressed up! Even an inexperienced group should make short work of Kobolds! Passing the guard, he looks down, hoping he doesn't bump into any of the guard he has run into on his less than legal activities.

[Hircine]

With the guards blessing you pass through the raised portcullis and into the keep's courtyard. Entering the courtyard you notice a flurry of activity as people move to and fro on jobs of varying importance. Looming overhead to the northeast, perched upon the hill's highest point is the keep's castle. Directly southwest of your position are the Lord Warden’s personal stables, where three stable hands busily fuss over the horses corralled within. Three large storehouses are nestled along the eastern wall of the keep. A tall, lanky middle-aged man with spectacles sitting on the bridge of his nose standing near one of the warehouses, is berating a worker for dropping a crate from a wagon that is being unloaded. Looking up you notice five or six guards vigilantly patrolling the keep’s wall, their crossbows at the ready. On the southern edge of the courtyard is the barracks, where you believe you’ll find Captain Faringray.

Making your way toward the structure you spot six or seven sentinels actively patrolling the walls, their crossbows at the ready. You also notice that much of the keep’s brickwork is weathered and in serious need of repairs.

As you approach the Fallcrest garrison a guardswoman hurries from her post, hand raised for you to halt. She is unwilling to let the group pass until you explain your purpose for visiting the garrison. When Faringray’s name comes up she realizes you must be the adventurers who defeated the group of cultists. Profusely apologizing for not recognizing the party she discloses the captain’s location and allows you to pass with no further objections.

Opening the mahogany wood double doors you enter a dimly lit chamber, that’s only source of light comes from candles kept in an iron chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Several off duty guards seated around a table briefly glance up from their card game to see who came in. In the corner a pair of guards you believe to be on break are eating ravenously before their next shift starts. Another group of watchman sitting on long benches near the door chat quietly amongst themselves. You do not see Anlow amongst the members of the watch gathered here which makes you to wonder where he went.

Following the directions you were given the group makes its way down several long corridors to Faringray’s office. Knocking on the door a voice on the other side asks you to come inside. Stepping into the captain’s cramped quarters you find the man with his head in his hands, a bottle of brandy and a metal tankard rest within arm’s reach. He looks up at you, barely able to contain his grief.

"I take it you’ve uncovered some valuable intelligence during your search of the cultists home."

OOC: Samel
You are under the impression that the soldier is simply following orders, though from who you've no idea.