[4e] Beware of huge monster (IC)

[Servbot]

OOC here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=270006)

'tis a dark and stormy night. The sort of foreboding nights bards are wont to tell tales of. That auspicious time of day when misfortune and misery are wed and trod through the fields, husband and wife, spreading their ill favours as they go. Agreed, then, among many, that it is not a night to be out much.

From inside the dusty, ill-lit meeting room in the Vengeful Spirits' base, you can hear the howling of the wind outside, and the beating of the rain against the glass panes. It used to be a chapel, this room. Dedicated to some such deity which, with time, has been consigned to obscurity.

DC 20 History or Religion check:
You know, in fact, that this chapel was dedicated to Kelemvor. The keep you inhabit used to have a unit fiercely dedicated to that sacred passage from life to death. Some say the god's presence lingers here still, even if it's been over 200 years since the chapel last saw religious use.

Fourteen nights to this night ago, your leader, the Lady Paron, took steed and escort and hastily set off in the night, eager to head... somewhere in the Kingdom of Drrek. No one quite knows the details, or if they do they have not spoken of it much. Not that her affairs are to be shared, in any case; She's a private lady, despite her role as leader and founder of the Vengeful Spirits. Only one she's rumoured to trust with her deepest secrets is Gumshot, the broad half-orc with more scars than hair on his head.

Gumshot, though? Most taciturn guy among the Vengeful Spirits. Tight-lipped, too. Spooks the new recruits when he actually does talk, for his voice has a hollow sort of timbre. Makes you think of ghouls, and no one cares for ghouls.

One of those new recruits pops her head in just now. Takes a good gander at you all. A gaunt lass, she is, but with a fierce edge to her.

"Here you are!" she says, panting lightly. "I been runnin' all over, lookin' for you lot! In any case, lord Gumshot wants to see ye."

She stands, waiting, intent to lead you all to him.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra sat there, cloaked and mysterious looking, sipping on some sort of red liquid in a wine glass....whether or not it was wine no one was ever really sure. Having wanted to venture out and go to dinner, she was forced to scrounge up some food from their base of operations. Vasjra sat, looking up at the symbols to which she had no clue what deity they belonged and wondered what she was going to make of herself for the night. She hated storms like this; light storm were nice for hunting, but these were just awful.

Vasjra heard the girl coming from down the hallway, due to her heightened senses mainly used for hunting, and was looking right at the door even before the girl opened it. Hearing the girl's tale, she finished her glass of....well, liquid.... and got up to accompany the girl to Gumshot, standing eerily close to her and staring both into her eyes and at her neck, and if the girl noticed, seemed not to breath. Oh how she loved to disturb and make uncomfortable the new recruits.

[Infernally Clay]

A young woman, not yet in her twenties, entered the Chapel with something of a tired look on her face. She had, for the last hour or so, told spooky stories to other members of the Vengeful Spirits, the sort of tales that involved a dark and stormy night and an old abandoned building that travellers sought refuge in only to receive much more than they bargained for. Normally inclined to tell something a bit more cheerful, the weather presented too much of an opportunity to pass up.

Slumping on an empty seat, Leif sighed heavily and leafed through an open book. "I wonder where our Lady disappeared off to and for what purpose", she said, "Maybe I'll be able to convince her to tell me. Could have a new tale to tell, filled with star-crossed lovers, daring escapes and ancient treasures... Do you think she's up to anything exciting like that?" Leif asked no-one in particular.

When the new recruit opened the door and proclaimed her intentions in a rather overly dramatic way, Leif watched Vasjra stand a little too close for comfort next to the recruit while eyeing her neck - so Leif stood up and quickly put her arm around the girl's shoulder and lead her out the room.

"Don't mind our friend," Leif said, offering a sly smile, "She just hasn't had a proper bite to eat yet."

[Leolo]

Nur'agh loves the storm, the wind and the rain and the sound of thunder somewhere. And he doesn't like chappels and churches, at least not like the chapel behind him. Whichever god it is dedicated to, it is not his own. When the recruit arrives the paladin was standing guard outside of the building, looking at the black clouds and the lightning within them that makes it visible from time to time.

Still as he knells there on the wall, ten steps away of the door with his grey cape that cloaks his plate you could think the man with the huge horns is some kind of stone gargoyle and part of the wall and so it is no surprise that he is suddenly standing behind the recruit when Vasjras gaze make her uncomfortable.

"You'll have to search faster next time. My slaves do know where i am. Where is Gumshot?"

His eyes are intimidating, charismatic and fiery and the voice of the tiefling marks him as a true heir of infernal beings. He makes a step forward, forcing the recruit into the chapel if she don't want to have him directly in front of her.

"Say your name, so we can tell him you have found us, at last."

[Darth_Versity]

Kale sat apart from the others, on top of a statue dedicated to Kelemvor. He traced a finger around the holy symbol carved into the stone while listening to Leif's stories. It was appropriate that the god of the dead and death was in this place, the home of a group dedicated to its fulfillment. Kelemvor would help them fulfill their purpose without losing sight of their goals and becoming simple murderers.

Kale had in fact come here looking for the groups services. He knew his mother was being held somewhere in the Feywild, but currently had neither the means nor the power to find a retrieve her alone. He had arrived and asked the Half-Orc in charge for help in return for his joining the group. Gumshot accepted him a member, but had explained only their leader, Lady Paron, could agreed to, and organise, such a large expedition to the Feywild.

That was two weeks ago, and since then Kale had sat around waiting for this leader to return so he could ask her in person. He had been assigned to the group the next day, but had yet to go on any missions with them.

When the girl walked in and said her piece, Kale leaped from the top of the statue and teleported down to the door.

"Lead the way."

[Servbot]

Leolo:
Your love of storms and rain does nothing to help you actually buffet the onslaught of the weather. You take 5 points of damage.

The girl looks visibly unnerved by Vajra, and shoots thankful looks to Leif for saving her.

"Lord Gumshot's in his room," she says to Nur'agh. "W, well, I guess you people know where it is... Still, I ought to take you. We can take a detour if you'd like; Lord Lessrac was there, and he said with this storm, you can't depart immediately any way, so..." She leaves the words trailing.

While talking, the girl's led you through the tunnel connecting the chapel and main keep, and you now stand in one of the halls, just by the armoury. Gumshot's room isn't very far from here, but Lessrac's room is at the very other end of the keep.

[Darth_Versity]

"No girl. If Gumshot wishes to see us then we'll go there first. Lessrac can wait."

[Infernally Clay]

"Besides, can't Lassric see the future?", Leif smirked, "He'll know we're going to see ol' Gummy first."

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra spoke up, "No, no girl," inching closer to her, voice full of seduction and seemed to call to everyone, "if Gumshot wants to see us we shall see him first."

I will be doing my speaking in Italics and my thinking in "normal" writing. I like the Italics for a more "seductive" looking writing :smallwink:

[Servbot]

The girl's eyes go wide for a moment and she makes to speak, but instead shuts up, nods and leads you along to Gumshot's room. It's almost hidden, and it takes the girl two tries before she has the proper room.

After she ushers you in, she quickly disappears before Gumshot so much as looks up from what he's doing. If you didn't know any better, Gumshot's lost it: He's staring at a bowl of water very, very intently.

Arcana DC 18:
You know better, of course. The water in the bowl is enchanted; The tell-tale signs are the shimmering surface and the faint traces of magic lingering around the bowl. Judging from the recruit's earlier words about Lessrac having been here, and the particulars of the case, it's not difficult to ascertain that the bowl is enchanted with a divination ritual. Probably scrying. Na, definitely scrying.

After a while, Gumshot seems to realise you're all in the room, as he looks up at you guys. His bleary and tired eyes show that the half-orc isn't in the best of states right now. He gestures, weakly, to the chair opposite his desk. How you divide it is likely up to you.

"Took your time," Gumshot growls.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, having been used to special treatment long ago as a drow woman and now not scared to boldly take what she wants, takes a seat int he chair across from Gumshot. Even though she is fairly small even for a drow female, she takes up a large presence not only in the room but in the chair. "You have summoned us, Gumshot, I assume for a particular reason. What would you have us do?", Vasjra's words roll off her tongue like silk and she seems to be completely ignoring the bowl Gumshot is staring into. She has seen magic before, much, and has never had much time for it. Even when she was a Priestess of Lolth.

[Infernally Clay]

"Must you always be so formal?" Leif laughed, mimicking Vasjra's voice as she walked past her and planted her backside firmly on an empty spot on Gumshot's desk, "Next you'll be saying 'I vant to suck your blooooooood!' or something."

Turning to Gumshot, she continued, "She is right, though... I doubt you called us here for tea and crumpets." Leif paused for a second, contemplating what she said, "...although I am hungry if you're offering."

Leif pauses for a moment, looking at the bowl of water as if was more inclined to tell her what was going on than the man who called them to the room.

Arcana Check:
[roll0]

"A divination?" Leif asked Gumshot innocently, "I'm assuming our Lady didn't fill you in on where she went, either?"

[Darth_Versity]

Arcana [roll0]
"That scrying bowl has a symbol on it thats slightly incorrect. It'll interfere with your reading. This part..." he points an an obscure symbol that is just a squiggle like the rest "...should have an inflection just here."

He shugs apologetically for the interuption. "A minor detail, but with the arcane, minor details are the important ones."

[Servbot]

If Gumshot was not already in a foul mood, then a spoony bard hopping onto his desk, and a spoony wizard insinuating their master diviner is clumsy would have done it.

As it is, he's already in a bad mood, and his face tells tell-tale signs of non-amusement, tempered only by Vasjra's appearance.

"Failure to detect is not with the magic here," Gumshot growls, rising from his chair to look at each of the gathered sharply. His gaze rests on Vasjra only marginally longer than on the rest.

Then it goes back to her again.

"I have a task for you. All of you." He pauses and stares at you guys intently. "Failure is not an option." He pauses again.

Insight DC 18
Gumshot's agitation isn't really caused by your actions. It seems that he's agitated because of something else entirely. His hesitation right now is probably linked to it. You get the impression he's really thinking of how to word your task...

"You are to find a missing person. She... no, no, you will find Lessrac and have him tell you." He slumps back into his chair, stares idly at the bowl. "Tell him to adjust the ritual again as well."

[Darth_Versity]

Insight [roll0]
Kale studied Gumshot's face for a deeper understanding of the situation, but it was clear the half-orc was in no mood to talk about it. The best he could surmise is that the missing person was causing quite a problem.

"Fine then. We'll go. It would have been easier to tell us yourself though, or have us go to Lessrac first rather than running around."

He turned and headed for the door.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Gumshot seemed quite on edge, and Vasjra had no idea if it were this bowl or them, but she brushed off his anger and accepted the mission with a nod and followed Kale out of the door, winking at Gumshot as she left.

Insight [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

"Look, I don't need to be Lessrac to know something is bothering you and it's obviously something to do our Lady," Leif sighed, sliding off the table and looking the Half-Orc intently in the eyes, "You don't need to get someone else to fill us in and having us walk from one end of this place to the other is just going to waste time. If she's in trouble, we can help."

Diplomacy Check:
Leif will activate her "Words of Friendship" power, giving her a +5 to her Diplomacy roll.

[roll0]

[Leolo]

She is right, if we shall help you any information that you are able to grant can be important. I promise we will visit Lessrac after this, but first you should tell us what is bothering you that much.

Trust us.

It is obviously not easy to trust the horned with the develish face, but Var speaks calm and knows how to influence people.


Insight: [roll0]
Diplomacy: [roll1]

[Servbot]

Just as Kale and Vasjra attempt to leave, Leif attempts to warm Gumshot up a bit and get him to tell 'em what's wrong.

Leif makes a horrible mistake in judgement. With a loud noise, the wooden table crumbles to the floor, scattering all items on top of it into the room; Gumshot's just smashed his fist right through the table, and he looks positively red with anger.

"I thought I gave you an ORDER," Gumshot bristles, his voice carrying so loud that just about anyone in the keep must be able to hear him now. "[b]Give me one good reason why I should not wring your neck right now and feed you to the hounds outside, you !*(#$78^!#*(&!#─"

Gumshot is positively beside himself with anger, and it takes no genius to see that. Var's calmth seems to have at least a mildly positive effect on the furious half-orc, but it looks like it's gonna need some more to calm down Gumshot...

Roll for Diplomacy or Bluff if you try to calm Gumshot down with words. If you try magic, you need an implement arcane attack roll against Will or an Arcana check to succeed. If you want to slap him into submission, er, roll for initiative!

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Right as she was about to leave, Vasjra heard the table break and turning back around saw Gumshot's hand through it. He was as red as his green tinted skin could get, and he was right in Leif's face. Vasjra didn't care if the cocky bard got her head ripped off, but this was wasting time, and she was already bored before their fight had even begun.

In the blink of an eye, Vasjra was right next to Leif, her hand up at her ear and was twisting it down, much like a mother would do with her troublesome child. "Of course she is an idiot, Gumshot. She is a cocky, fool-hardy half-elf that doesn't know when to shut up. She apologizes, and if you will let us mighty Gumshot, we will take your leave and not bother you further," silk flowed out of Vasjra's mouth yet again, and she gave a tug on Leif's ear when she was accenting a point. She stared at the half-orc and gave him a very low bow, exposing her fairly ample cleavage, hoping to quell Gumshot's rage with a distraction and showing him that she thought the bard was an idiot as well.......not to mention putting him back in power by asking to leave the room with his permission.

Ok, lets see if the dice help me with this post :smallwink: [roll0]

[Darth_Versity]

As Vasjra steps forward, Kale teleports behind Gumshot. He waits for the drow to say her piece and then carefully and calmly places a hand on the half-orcs shoulder. He lets the power of his magic flow into his voice, a spell of soothing and calming that carefully worms its way into the subjects mind and twists their emotions to the casters whim.

"Peace my friend. There is no need for this. Your anger is being sent in the wrong direction." he steps forward and locks eyes with his target, letting the spell take full effect. "Your rage is needed, but it should be saved, stored, and harnessed on the battlefield. Not here amongst your allies."

A smile and a small shrugs finishes the magic along with the final words "Save it for our enemies."

Encounter Power: Fey Step

Encounter Power: Arcane Mutterings, replaces Diplomacy with Arcana
[roll0]

That should do it!

[Infernally Clay]

"One good reason? I'll give you two," Leif said, a twinkle in her eye as she refused to back down, "One, you need our help. You wouldn't have called us here otherwise and, from the looks of things, the situation is bad enough that you don't have time to wring my neck right now. Secondly, I fed the dogs myself a little over an hour ago, so I doubt they'd be hungry right now."

Bluff and Diplomacy checks:
'Cause nothing can be as bad as last time! :smallbiggrin:

Diplomacy: [roll0]
Bluff: [roll1]

[Servbot]

Leif, confident that whatever behaviourism got her into this mess will double to get her out of this mess, is backed by both Vasjra and Kale, the former who brings the bard down a bit and the latter simmers Gumshot's rage.

The half-orc seems to relax a little, though he still looks considerably angry.

"Very well. I shall temper my rage for now," he growls, and raising his fist he adds, "Know, however, that I have half a mind to send the Watchers instead and assign your group elsewhere. Your reputation for courage preceded you, and I see now it is also equal parts stupidity."

With that, he gestures for you to leave. Immediately.

Insight DC 20
You strongly get the feeling that if you try to push your luck here, Gumshot might actually make true on his words and strangle one of you. Maybe all of you.

Insight DC 35
He'll strangle all of you to death if you press your luck too much here. Well, he'll try. He might succeed. Only one way to find out.

[Darth_Versity]

[roll0]

Believing that his spell had done its work enough to keep the brute calm, Kale casually placed an arm around Gumshot's shoulder in a friendly manner.

"To be fair, in most situations its hard to tell bravery and stupidity apart. Both have their uses though." He then steps lightly towards the door, leaving th orc be. "We'll be off to Lessrac then."

[Infernally Clay]

Insight Check:
'Cause why not? :smalltongue:

[roll0]

"Fine, fine," Leif sighed as she left the room, "Hopefully our divining friend's mood will be less sour."

[Servbot]

The group departs from Gumshot's room, only to navigate their ways through the halls to Lessrac's room. They find the door opened, and a strange smell wafts out of the room... It's probably some weird herb Lessrac's smoking. His reputation as a heavy duty smoker is known throughout the keep, and there are many who walk around Lessrac with a wide circle.

The inside is homely and it feels small... for though the room is of moderate size, there are many desks, with many objects stacked all on them. You find Lessrac in the corner of the room, hunched over a number of devices and instruments... one of which a bowl, quite alike the one you saw in Gumshot's room.

"Ah! Finally here, yes? For talks of most importance. Most importance." the gnome says, jovially turning from his work and regarding your group with a bright smile. He spreads his arms in welcome. "Ooh ooh ooh! You dodged an arrow with Gumshot you did, you did! No possibility being an adventurer and mercenary of most ambitious ambition once you take an arrow to the knee, none! But listen to me ramble, care for some brew?" He gestures, at which a ghastly hand fetches a suspicious looking tankard.

Arcana DC 20
The tankard is an infinite tankard of ale! It's a dwarven invention, presumably made to honour their god with drinks. The magic that works it is easily replicated.

Perception?
Make a Perception check to notice anything among Lessrac's collection of whatzits and whozits.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra had been in this room before, but it never ceased to amaze her at the acrid smoke that was in there, from all of Lessrac's smoking....odd little gnome that he was. She looked around the room, trying to figure out if he had acquired any new trinkets or baubles from the last time she stepped foot in this room. And after he offered the awful looking drink, Vasjra turned her nose up at it and declined. She didn't have to be an expert in whatever arcane arts the gnome was into to figure out that this gross liquid was not something she wanted to imbibe.

Perception check [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

Arcana Check:
[roll0]

Unable to recognise just what was she was being offered, yet being unable to ignore that she was still rather hungry, Leif took the tankard anyway. Lessrac could be trusted - he was a diviner, not deranged, and Leif doubted he was in the habit of poisoning those whom he sought help from.

"So what is it that's so important, yet Gumshot wouldn't tell us?" Leif asked plainly, "While there's no hope of being an adventurer if your boss is wringing your neck, there's not much hope of being an adventurer if nobody tells you what or where you're s'posed to be adventuring."

[Darth_Versity]

Arcana
[roll0]

Kale enters the room, amazed at the collection of wonders that now surround him. While he recognised most of the varies items, some where beyond even his knowledge.

Looking down at the disembodied hand, he swung his pack round and began to poke something inside of it.

"C'mon. You can't sleep all day. Come and say hello."

The tiny head of a Brass dragon popped out of the top and gave a wide yawn, stretching its wings out to their full extent. It then jumped on to the table and gave a final stretch of its legs like a cat, before heading over to the hand where it began to talk enthusiastically in some unknown language.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha Var thankfully takes the tankard and looks around in the room, searching for something he knows.


I always care for some brew, but right now more for information why you have called for us.



Arcana: [roll0]
Perception: [roll1]

[Servbot]

Vasjra
Among the odds and ends, many of the items are too bizarre for you to recognise anything you might be able to use. However, there is one item you do recognise: a pair of midnight sixes! They're within arm's reach, actually... wouldn't be too hard to take them.

Roll Stealth to steal the dice. You can also use Diplomacy or Bluff to get the Master Diviner to give you the dice instead.

Lessrac rubs his hands vigorously, eyes twinkling when Leif partakes in his brew. It is delicious Dwarven ale, highest quality. "Oh, yes, yes, you need details, yes? Finding a missing person is your task of tasks, set upon you by Gumshot himself, oh yes! But he worries, he does, he worries. See, our friend here," he amicably gestures to Leif, "saw, oh yes she did, saw the truth of things."

He pauses and looks at each of you in turn, and the smile disappears from his face. "I have not been able to track the Lady Paron's movements for two days now. Gumshot grows worried, he does, because she never told him where she was going, only that they were matters most urgentliness. Your task, it is, to do what I cannot. Find her."

The gnome gestures around wildly. "All this! Magic, all this, see, see? And none of it can find her. Not dead. But not alive. Not on this plane. But maybe she is. I do not know. See, I cannot see." He flops down, and looks at you a bit helplessly.

Insight DC 25
You get the feeling Lessrac's partially playing it up. There may be something he just isn't telling you. You get the feeling Lessrac has some idea of what is going on, or at least some idea on where the Lady went.

Darth
The hand familiar seems to be just as enthusiastic to talk with the brass dragon. It explains that Lessrac's tried a dozen rituals in the past few days, and none of them bar one functioned at all. The one that did work? Guidance, and it pointed squarely north-west.

[Infernally Clay]

Insight Check:
[roll0]

"Two days?" Leif surmised, "Can you tell us where she was before she, er, dropped off your radar? If we knew that, we could limit our search to areas within two days travel."

Drinking some more of the ale, and it certainly was the best thing she had tasted in a long time, Leif looked up at Lassrec and asked, "Did she tell you anything about these urgent matters?"

[Infernally Clay]

Diplomacy Check: (to coerce more information!)
[roll0]

[Darth_Versity]

Kale listens as his dragon explains what has happened. He then looks at Lessrac.

"I don't have Hand of Fate amoungst my spells. If you'll allow me to copy it I could use the spell to narrow down her location while on the move."

[Leolo]

Nur'agh is suspicious and doesn't really trust this explaination.

This looks as if we are just the excuse not to make a real search of the whole guild. Maybe he doesn't want to raise the attention of someone?

Why do you think we are the right persons to find her? I don't think any of us has special information where to start.

Insight check:

[roll0]

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra sees the pair of dice on the table and smiles, looking at Lessrac, "Oh Lessrac, are those a pair of sixes? I have been looking for a pair of those for the looongest time. Would you be ever so kind as to let me have them? I can think of more than a few uses for them. I would be ever so grateful." Vasjra turns on her charms, trying to get those dice out of the little gnome.

Diplomacy [roll0]

[Servbot]

"Well!" Lessrac gestures dramatically. "The Lady did not tell me of her business, she did not, see? But I have seen, and I know, the Lady went hence through the Kingdom, oh yes! But her route confounds, it does, zigzag as it goes, see? No destination I could see, oh yes, and I see most much!"

As for Kale and Vasjra, the gnome nods his consent. "Please! Feel free. A great assistance of support it shall be, yes, when I give you what you ask! Do feel free, take them along, see? Now, I have here for you..." The hand familiar fetches a parchment. "A map, yes! It traces the route the Lady followed, in hopes that maybe, yes? Maybe you can find her if you trace her ways."

The map shows she definitely went north into the Kingdom, passing by just about every village she could, sometimes even taking great detours (and likely pains) to go to another village... the trail stops abruptly in a town about six days straight from the keep.

"You know enough, yes? Please find the Lady, see, she is very important to us, see?"

Unless you want to go elsewhere, you can take an extended rest, and the journey starts tomorrow! You can also go out right away if you want though.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale pulls out his spellbook and uses some of Lessrac's items to copy the spell. It takes a while but he smiles once its done.

"Well i'm famished. Whose up for some lunch before we leave?"

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra smiles at Lessrac, a very mischievous smile, and picks up the dice, "Thank you very much, sir. They will be put to good use." She gives him a wink, and rolled a few times, thinking of how she wanted them to come up and indeed they did. Once Lessrac was done with them, she leaves the room and stays up for a little while, gambling a little with the newbies, and gaining a fair bit of coin from them, all with a wide smile on her face. After a little while of fun, she decided she needed sleep, and went to her room for a little while.

[Leolo]

I'm always enjoying a good meal, so why not? And maybe you can share some knowledge about this spell with me? We haven't talked for a while Kale.


The tiefling seems to be at least a little bit interested in magic, and friendly enough to be nice company.

[Darth_Versity]

"Fine by me. Lets eat." and he heads of for the kitchens.

[Servbot]

The group decides as one to stay their journey for tonight. No sense going out in the raging storms, with nary a thin cloak to keep you warm. Night at the keep is as it always is; Many quiet whispers, some bravado from those who braved the storm to report on their business, and a few wails for those who came back and well... They'd never need to fear the storms again.

Unless a necromancer rose them.

Gumshot's not left his room since his talk with you, and only the girl who led you to him was brave enough to bring him dinner. She returned, doused in dinner, and looking decidedly unhappy.

Eventually, though, morning comes! The storm outside's mostly died down, though the winds are fierce and cold. You've all been given warm rain cloaks, though there's hardly anyone to see you out. Lessrac's there, but he left shortly after, claiming there was work to do, and things to see.

The road north into the Kingdom is obvious to take, but there's a bit of a split in the road. You'll arrive at Nofinhea whichever way you take, but there's a winding road that'll take you past most of the mountain and then some, and it's a veritable detour that'll take 4 days. The shorter pass, on the other hand, will go straight towards Nofinhea, and it'll take you only 2 days to get there.

The map Lessrac showed you indicated Lady Paron had taken the shorter route, but it seems doubtful that this leg of the journey's pivotal to finding her.

As a group, your very first decision awaits.

Streetwise DC 18
The shorter pass is supposed to be dangerous; Although the King's Guard is meant to patrol and keep monsters well in check, they don't typically venture this close to the Vengeful Spirit's keep. As a result, there's various stories from fellow Vengeful Spirits about monsters they've sighted there, or corpses they discovered along the road.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra awoke from her slumber, ready for a new day. She declined the warm clothes, for her skin knew not heat nor cold....it was dead, just as she was. The cold isn't what affected her, nor what she feared, it was the sun. That big ball of radiance that would burn her from the outside, in, and only needed her cloak to protect her in the daylight. She tried to dig up some information on the route the Lady took, but was unsuccessful, coming back to the others, "Well, unlike normal my search turned up all of nothing about the roads ahead. I say that if the Lady took the shorter road, so should we. But...I don't really care either way."

Streetwise [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

Streetwise Check!
[roll0]

"The shorter path is my suggestion," Leif said, "It's more dangerous, but do we're not being paid to take the safe route. Besides, what are a few monsters to us? If we're lucky, we might even meet someone that saw our Lady."

[Leolo]

"If there are dangerous creatures we have another reason to take this way. It might have happened that they endangered the lady. And even if not they might know something about what happens at the road."


Streetwise check: [roll0]

[Servbot]

The group decides, almost unanimously, to take the shorter route. It is a tougher route than the other, and the storm soon proves to have left its effects: What trees you find have either been heavily abused or have fallen over. There's even a landslide, and while it proves no difficulty to surpass, it slows the group down somewhat. By the time the sun begins setting for the first time, you've not reached the halfway point at all. It looks like it'll take at least three days to make it through here; The longer way would probably be even longer than four days, though.

Weariness isn't the only toll on you, though...

Incoming combat
I'm going to need an Endurance check and a Perception check from everyone.

If you fail the Endurance check (DC 15), you'll be slowed for the encounter and take a -2 penalty to attack rolls and your Reflex, due to being too tired from the trip.

If you fail the Perception check (DC 20), you are additionally surprised during the first round of combat.

If you succeed at the Perception check, you can hear the soft shuffling of pawed feet on the ground and a low growl. You can't see the enemies yet, though.

[Infernally Clay]

Endurance Check!
[roll0]

Perception Check!
[roll1]

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
This trip seems overly exhausting to Vasjra, and the sun takes an alarming toll on the drow. She is tired, worn out, and needing blood, so she doesn't notice the growling coming from around them, as well as the shuffling of something int he forest hunting them.

Endurance (should be interesting) [roll0]

Perception [roll1]

[Darth_Versity]

Endurance [roll0], I'm not tired at all...

Perception [roll1], ...and busy looking at pretty flowers!

[Leolo]

Var is not tired by the wilderness and he has led enough of those groups that he knows to stay alerted. He tries to not show his knowledge to the attackers, but still to warn his comrades.


There are people approaching and I think they are ambushing us. Prepare yourself, they are near!


Endurance [roll0]
Perception 30

[roll1] (sorry, wrong roll, have rerolled it in the ooc thread.

[Servbot]

Just as Vasjra attempts to catch a breath, Nur'agha realises the group is not alone! His cry is too late, however, as dire hounds leap from the rocks surrounding the group, and catching them handily in a pincer attack!

However, Nur'agha, his senses keen and his axe more keen, threatens an imposing figure for the hounds, who give pause and shirk away only just a little... enough for the rest of the group to catch their bearings, and for Nur'agha to seize opportunity and take control of the situation.

Nur'agha's natural 20 negates surprise for the entire party, and all enemies grant combat advantage to Nur'agha until the end of Nur'agha's turn!

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/axiVF0C.jpg

{table]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|64/64 HP|--
Nur'agha Var|66/66 HP|--
Leif|58/58 HP|--
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|0|--
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|0|--
Dire Hound 3|J12/K13|0|--
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|0|--[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Leolo]

Without hesitation Nur'agh Var turn arround and stares at the approaching hounds.

Come and try to take a bite!

Three of them seem to be influenced by the develish look of the tiefling and Nur'agh attacks the fourth with his bare fist as it seems. But just before he strikes after the hound an axe becomes visible in his hand and slashes after the surprised hound, raising fear in it's mind.


Minor Action: Paladin's wreath. Hound 1,3 and 4 are subject to my divine Sanction and gain a -2 to attacks against my allies, plus 8 radiant damage if they attack someone else than me.
Move Action: To B13
Standard Action: Fearsome smite: [roll0] (Forgot CA, so it is 33) vs AC of Hound 2, if it hits [roll1] damage and -8 to attack rolls until the end of my next turn. (3 from smite, 5 from imperious majesty)

[Servbot]

Nur'agha surges forth, calling forth the power of his god to exact punishment on those who would dare ignore the Paladin in combat. The Tiefling moves to block the northern monsters, seizing the opportunity to strike true with a powerful axe smite.

The hound recoils and howls with fear and fury, spurring another hound to take initiative! It glares daggers at Leif, then springs on her with fury! It seems wholly unmindful of Nur'agha's divine fury, taking the punishment in stride.

Leif manages to duck away from the maws just in time, though.

Hound 3 marks Leif as its quarry, then moves and attacks. Its attack roll of 15 doesn't break Leif's AC, and it takes 8 damage for ignoring Nur'agha's Sanction.

It is now Kale's turn!

Nature knowledge
Hounds are popular in the Kingdom. Many people use them to hunt, as they provide great assistance in that area. Many hounds are somewhat domesticated. These hounds, however, are not. Key ways to notice this is the way they are about twice as large as the largest domesticated hound, and they are quite feral.

You could even say they are dire hounds. Quite stupid beasts, really, that tend to leap on prey mindlessly, and then flee when they take too much damage.

Few are the stories of warriors dying to dire hounds, though there are some stories involving warriors dying to dire hounds backed by ludes.

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/AVcjEMJ.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|64/64 HP|--
Nur'agha Var|66/66 HP|--
Leif|58/58 HP|--
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|0|Divine Sanction
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|-8 to attack rolls
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|8|Divine Sanction
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|0|Divine Sanction[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

Arcana
[roll0]

"Whelp, was proving to be a pretty boring day anyway. Nothing like some light entertainment to keep things interesting."

With that, Kale leaves Nur'agha to deal with the north, while he runs south to head off the other two beasts. As he passes the one attacking Leif he gives a quick arcane muttering, encouraging it to attack him instead.

He then makes a quick slash of his sword against the next one with a basic lightning spell attached.

Move action: Move to J12 (provokes opportunity attack)
Minor Action: Aegis of Shielding to mark Dire Hound 3
Standard Action: Booming Blade vs Dire Hound 4
(Attack: [roll1], Damage [roll2] Thunder
If its a hits then it takes [roll3] Thunder damage if it moves away, or 5 damage if it attacks me)

[Servbot]

Lude Monster Knowledge
Ludes are small-sized supernatural creatures that hail from the Feywild. They are outwardly friendly creatures, and their rotund, white shapes tend to give a harmless appearance.

As a good study of the Feywild proves, however, ludes aren't quite as harmless as they seem. Their main method of attack is by using magic. Depending on the type of lude, this magic is used to sap prey of their life slowly, and some even masks the lude from regular sight. Preternatural senses tend to reveal the creatures, though one has to make a concentrated effort to do so.

Ludes are weak to acidic attacks, owing it to their poor constitution, though they have formidable strength of will. Generally, when they venture out of the Feywilds, they follow a lude beguiler, who tends to organise his allies and lay out some scheme.

It's not rare to see a lone lude beguile a few beasts and attack unwary travellers, though.

Quick to follow Nur'agha's lead, Kale advances forward, narrowly avoiding the snapping jaws of the nearby dire hound! The temporary distraction proved enough, though: The crackling blade doesn't quite strike true on its target.

Kale's attack misses! The OA he provokes also misses on a 23.

The wolf retaliates, glaring sharply at Kale before snapping its jaw at Kale as well! Again, divine fury sears the creature, but it is not enough to prevent the wolf from biting into Kale, leaving a nasty gash.

Dire Hound 4 hits Kale with a 28, dealing 14 damage, while taking 8 damage from divine sanction.

Kale is quarry'd.

Meanwhile, up north, the hound attacked by Nur'agha retaliates as well! Its sharp glare is followed immediately by a fierce lunge, but its sharp fangs only deflect on solid armour.

Nur'agha is quarry'd.

Hound 2 attacks, but its roll of 23 is insufficient to deal damage.

It is now Vasjra's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/CWxUFPp.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|50/64 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Nur'agha Var|66/66 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)
Leif|58/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|0|Divine Sanction
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|-8 to attack rolls
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|8|Aegis
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|Divine Sanction[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Still under the rays of the cursed sun, Vasjra runs towards the hounds blocking their path. Right before she gets to one, she drops her magical darkness completely covering one of the hounds, and partially covering the other, and then she is gone from sight. And all you hear is a hiss and a hound howl in pain.

Actions
Minor - Cloud of darkness centered on C13. The burst creates a cloud of darkness that remains in place until the end of your next turn. The cloud blocks line of sight, squares within it are totally obscured, and creatures entirely within it are blinded until they exit. You are immune to these effects.
Move - to B12 through C13
Standard - Taste of Life on Wolf one VS Fort, [roll0] (+2 due to CA)
Damage - [roll1] necrotic, and I gain 6 THP's & gain 3 resistance to #1's attacks UEMNT(+12 is my normal dmg mod, but I get +4 dmg to creatures within my cloud of darkness)
No Action - If I hit with Taste of life, use Blood Drinker. [roll2] extra damage and I gain a Healing Surge.

[Infernally Clay]

Leif Haust (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=506412), Resident Badass

"Try to take a bite out of me, will you?" Leif shouted at the wolf snapping at her heels, "Sorry, but this prey bites back."

Actions!
Minor Action: Echoing Weapon

Minor. Thunder. The next attack from the chosen weapon until the end of your next turn deals an additional 2d6 damage regardless of whether it hits or misses.

Leif will choose her own weapon for this power's effect.

Standard Action: Eldritch Strike.

Standard. Weapon. Cha vs AC. 1[W] + Cha mod damage and you slide the target 1 square. Can be used as a melee basic attack.
Free Action: Takedown Strike.

Encounter. No action. When you hit an enemy adjacent to you, deal an extra Cha mod damage and knock target prone.

Leif will hit Dire Hound 3 (attack: [roll0]; damage: [roll1]+[roll2]+5 (total: 28)), sliding it down one square south and knocking it prone.

[Servbot]

Vasjra moves, cloaking the area around her in midnight before she strikes! She only narrowly manages to pierce through the wolf's thick hide, however!

Hound 1 takes 22 damage, and Vasjra gains a healing surge. Cloud of Darkness's close burst 1 isn't enough to cover any of the wolves entirely, and as a result neither is blinded (although the cloud does block line of sight).

Nur'agha is blinded!

Leif, meanwhile, takes care of the hound attacking her, knocking it off the ground and towards Kale! Her crackling blade zings the hound fiercely and it looks worse for wear.

Hound 3 takes 26 damage (Echoing Weapon does not get an enhancement bonus), is slid 1 square and knocked prone!

One of the hounds seems to be preparing for something...

Hound 1 readies an action!

It is now Nur'agha's turn! (Nur'agha is at B13, but cannot see anything.)

MAP: (note: Vasjra may refer to previous map for area beyond the Cloud, rest of the PCs cannot see what's in or beyond there. Nur sees nothing.
http://i.imgur.com/umkSB3A.png

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|50/64 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Nur'agha Var|66/66 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2), Blind
Leif|58/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|22|Divine Sanction
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|-8 to attack rolls
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|34|Aegis, Prone
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|Divine Sanction[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha is not afraid of the dark, he knows the drow long enough to not be surprised when everything turns black.

If i can't see them they can't see me.

Without stepping out of the darkness he slams his fist on the ground and creates a weave of thunder arround him, ringing in the ears of the hounds. He lies to the creatures:

I'll stand here in the dark and wait for you. Come and get me!

But instead of this he moves away, closer to his comrades and attacks the quick strike of his axe.


Astral Thunder:
[roll0] vs Fort Hound1
[roll1] vs Fort Hound2
[roll2] thunder damage and -3 to attacks
Move to G14
Divine challenge against Hound3
Sohei Flurry: [roll3] vs Fort Hound3
[roll4]

[Servbot]

Nur'agha strikes with divine lightning! The wave of thunder solidly zaps one of the beasts, but rolls harmlessly off the other... at least, that's what Vasjra sees.

Hound 1 is hit for 10 damage, and it takes a -3 penalty to attack rolls until end of Nur's next turn.

The paladin moves to the fallen hound, challenging it with divinity!

Divine Challenge overrides the Aegis marking.

In response, the beast leaps to its feat, furiously attacking Nur'agha! Its fangs find their mark, sinking deep into flesh before it rips apart, and Nur'agha finds himself wounded. It's not a very deep wound, but lethal regardless...

Hound 3 stands, then attacks! Its roll of 29 pierces Nur'agha's AC, and it deals 14 damage to Nur'agha!

It is now Kale's turn!

MAP: (note: Vasjra may refer to previous map for area beyond the Cloud, rest of the PCs cannot see what's in or beyond there. Nur sees nothing.
http://i.imgur.com/nVKf5YX.png

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|50/64 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Nur'agha Var|52/66 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)
Leif|58/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|32|-3 to attack rolls
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|34|Divine Challenge
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale can feel the sting in his arm, but luckily most of the blow was taken by his armor. He then swung his weapon in a wide arc, creating a blast of arcane energy that assaulted the two nearby hounds.

He then looked at the one that attacked him. "Catch me if you can..." and he imbued the words with power to force the beast to come after him.

As the creature lunged forward, Kale suddenly dissapeared. He reappeared back to back with Leif and then looked at her over his shoulder.

"Having Fun?"

Standard Action: Sword Burst
Hound 3: [roll0] vs Ref (23, forgot flanking)
Hound 4: [roll1] vs Ref *nat 1*
Damage: [roll2]
If either are hit, they take 5 more damage if they attack Kale on their next turn.

Minor Action: Aegis against Hound 4

Move Action: Fey Step, teleport to E12

[Servbot]

Kale's magic-powered blade strikes one of the hounds with strength, drawing blood from the beast! It doesn't look too well for that hound, but the other one deftly manages to avoid the incoming attack. Kale moves through the fabric of worlds and reappears.

Hound 3 is hit for 11 damage and has become bloodied!

However, the hound he marked doesn't mind too much! It leaps past his allies with surprising gusto, only to set himself on Kale again! Teeth find disturbing good purchase, raking Kale fiercely! The hound draws blood, and it only seems more interested now.

Hound 4 uses Chase and Pounce, shifting towards his quarry while ignoring enemy-occupied spaces and ending his move next to the quarry! Hound 4 attacks and scores a CRITICAL HIT for 23 damage, bloodying Kale!

Meanwhile, Vasjra spots one of the hounds near her retreating from the darkness.

It is now Vasjra's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/niXhpAo.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|27/64 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4), Bloodied
Nur'agha Var|52/66 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)
Leif|58/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|52/52 HP|Exhausted[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|32|-3 to attack rolls
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|45|Bloodied
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

As Kale looks over his shoulder at Leif, he saw the hound leaping after him.

"Oh, I guess he did catch me..."

On instinct he calls on the elemental forces of his ancestry and forces the cold energy into his blade before swinging it out in retaliation.

Immediate Interrupt: Frost Backlash
Attack vs Ref [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Oh FFS! Why does the forum roller hate me? :smallfurious:

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra smiles at the wolf retreating, knowing it was just her and the last wolf....just the way she liked it, one-on-one. Not that anyone could see her, but she seemed to grown in ferocity and became more animal-like. Her nails grew longer and sharper, her teeth became bigger and more pointed.....and her eyes seemed to burn turned and even bloodier red.(more to come after the rolls)

Actions
Standard - Feral Assault on #1 VS Ref [roll0]
Damage - [roll1], and I can spend a healing sure and add [roll2] to the damage, putting me from 3/2 HS to 2/2 HS's.
Move - To F13

After I end my move, the cloud will be done.

[Infernally Clay]

"Bah, t'is but a scratch," Leif shrugged to Kale, giving him encouragement as only she could, "A waste of fine clothing, though. How about we wrap things up here?"

Actions!
Minor: Leif uses Revitalising Incantation on Kale, allowing him to use a healing surge and regain additional temporary hit points equal to his healing surge value.
Standard: Leif uses Staggering Note on Dire Hound 3 (attack: [roll0]; damage: 7), granting Nur'agha a free melee basic attack against it before it is pushed three squares south.
Move: Leif will then move to J12 (which should be one square above where Dire Hound 3 ends up).

[Leolo]

Nur'agha takes the opportunity to attack and let his axe swing in a wide arc.


[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] damage

[Servbot]

Kale takes advantage of the opportunity to discourage the hound with an arctic slash from his blade, but fright must have influenced the stalwart hero, for his attack goes wide, striking cold air!

Kale's immediate interrupt misses!

Vasjra also attempts to attack, but she finds her attack cannot find purchase on the hound's hide, and the vampire is forced to retreat, her cloud of darkness fleeing before the setting sun.

Vasjra misses.

Meanwhile, Leif's soothing words still Kale's wounds, and he's able to grit his teeth and ignore the pain for now. A burst of Leif's magic sends the hound staggering south; Nur'agha attempts to take advantage of the situation, but his wild swing goes too wide, and cleaves only air.

Leif heals Kale for 18 HP and Kale gains 18 tHP. Staggering Note hits for 7 damage, but Nur'agha misses.

Meanwhile, the hound to the north eases its stance, rushes Vasjra and attacks her with ferocity! The vampire is caught almost unaware, and before she knows it teeth sink into her; The irony is lost on the hound.

Vasjra becomes hound 1's quarry. Hound 1 attacks Vasjra! Its attack roll of 31 scores a hit, and Vasjra takes 18 damage!

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/tb8wBzY.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Hound3|26
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Nur'agha Var|52/66 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)
Leif|58/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|34/52 HP|Exhausted, Quarry (Dire Hound 1)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|32|
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|52|Bloodied
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Leolo]

Nuragha attacks another one of the hounds with his axe and as he does he speaks holy words, a prayer to protect those that have entrusted their life his protection...(rest of description follows if i know which actions succeed)


Move to J13
[roll0] against hound 3
[roll1] and all allies within 5 sq gain 8temp hitpoints

if it hit's and kills hound 3 i'd like to use an action point and charge the hound on G11/F10 by moving to square h12
[roll2]
[roll3]

And if this also hit's or hound 3 wasn't dead after the first attack i'd like to use sohei flurry on him

[roll4]
[roll5]

EDIT: 9 damage is propably not enough to kill hound 3, so the 1st and 3rd attack would be on him, and i don't use the action point

[Servbot]

Nur'agha strikes fair and true, and under the might of the paladin's axe the hound succumbs! The swift sohei strike solidly strikes straight to the heart, and the creature sags, then falls to the ground.

Hound 3 dies!

It is now Kale's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/tb8wBzY.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Nur'agha Var|52/66+8 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)
Leif|58/58+8 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 3)
Vasjra|40/52+8 HP|Exhausted, Quarry (Dire Hound 1)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|POSITION|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|A10/B11|32|
Dire Hound 2|-A12/A13|12|
Dire Hound 3|G12/H13|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|K10/L11|8|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale gives a grateful nod to Leif, before heading north, charging into the one blocking their path.

Move Action: Shift to D12
Standard Action: Charge to A12
Attack [roll0], Damage [roll1]

Another natural 1. The roller officially wants us dead!

[Servbot]

Spurred on by Nur'agha's success, Kale rushes off north to strike down another of the hounds. The swordsman is far too excited, however; He misses a small pebble, and misfortune and recklessness combine when the swordsman tumbles to the ground, wildly flailing his sword uselessly!

Kale's critical failure to hit imposes a falling prone penalty! The attack obviously misses.

The hounds continue unrelenting, one of them striking at Leif even more! The bard's nimbleness does not avail as the jaws catch her by the arm, puncturing muscle and drawing blood.

Hound 4 shifts, sets Leif as her quarry, then attacks Leif! Even with the Aegis -2 penalty, it rolls 29 against AC, scoring a good hit for 19 damage! Kale can Interrupt to reduce damage though!

Meanwhile, Kale's hound also takes advantage of his fallen state, bearing down on him! However, Kale's swordmage mythal interjects, deftly blocking the full force of the beast's attack.

Hound 2 sets Kale as her quarry, then attacks! Its roll of 19 doesn't break AC and no damage is dealt.

It is now Vasjra's turn! (I have updated the "Exhausted" trait.)

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/vl5D01J.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2), Prone
Nur'agha Var|52/66+8 HP|
Leif|47/58 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Vasjra|40/52+8 HP|Fatigue, Quarry (Dire Hound 1)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|32|
Dire Hound 2|12|
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|8|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra gets frustrated at missing the other, but seems to be feeling slightly better. She eyes the wolf next to her, bolstering herself and moving faster than before, if only for a minute.

Actions
Minor - Forced Advantage - Until the end of your next turn, you gain combat advantage against the target and a +2 power bonus to all defenses against the target's attacks. You also take a -2 penalty to attack rolls on attacks that do not include the target.
Standard - Vampire slam on #1 VS Ref [roll0]
Damage - [roll1]

If that hits use my other Blood Drinker:
No Action - [roll2] extra damage and I gain a Healing Surge

[Infernally Clay]

Leif facepalmed. Literally. "He's got the grace of a hippo, that guy..." she sighed, motioning at Kale to Vasjra, "You seemed to hurt that thing, though - care for a second shot?"

Actions!
Move: Moment of Escape Utility power, targeting Kale and moving him four squares directly south.
Minor: Majestic Word power, aimed at Vasjra, granting the use of a healing surge with a +5 value, healing her fatigue and sliding her one square north.
Standard: Staggering Note, targeting Dire Hound 1 (vs Will; attack: [roll0]; damage: 7). Vasjra may make a melee basic attack against it before Leif sends it three squares directly east.

Then, there's a glimmer in Leif's eyes as she turns to the hound that just attacked her, "Thought I had forgotten about you? No chance."

Action Point! (might as well use it now!)
Standard: War Song Strike, aimed at Dire Hound 4 (vs AC; attack: [roll1]; damage: [roll2]). Now, whenever allies hit Dire Hound 4 until the end of Leif's next turn, they gain +4 temp hit points.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale rolls to avoid the attack, but sees Leif about to get bitten, and decides to concentrate on helping her instead.

Immediate Interupt: Transposing Lunge
[roll0] vs AC, [roll1]

If it hits, then hound 4 teleports to B13/C14 and Leif is unharmed.
If not, Leifs damage is reduced by 6.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Hearing the bard's word Vasjra laughs, taking another swipe at the wolf in front of her before it is pushed away from her, while feeling completely refreshed by the Bard's words as well.

Actions
Free MBA - I can use Vampire Slam as an MBA vs Ref on #1
[roll0] (Still with CA)
Damage - [roll1]

[Servbot]

As the hound tries to set itself on Leif, the fallen swordsman interjects, drawing the creature closing to him through the fabric of the feyworlds!

As the hound can't be warped into the stones, I'm placing it at the nearest possible location. The attack hits for 17 damage!

Meanwhile, the vampiric drow surges forth, striking her adversary with impunity! The hound is showing signs of wear, and its movements have become a bit slower... it's closing in on its demise!

Vasjra's attack hits, dealing 21 damage and bloodying Hound #1.

Leif grants Kale a moment to escape the threatening hound, then attempts to stagger the nearby hound... The creature is not affected by her mind-threatening magic, though, and stalwartly remains staring. Leif is not deterred, however, launching a second attack. This time, the hound staggers off east; Vasjra's attempt to capitalise fails miserably.

Leif's attack misses! AP fueled attack hits for 7 damage! Vasjra misses!

Holding action for Leif's possible AP-use.

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/H9EHrIX.png

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2), Prone
Nur'agha Var|52/66+8 HP|
Leif|58/58+8 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4)
Vasjra|52/52+8 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 1)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|50|Bloodied
Dire Hound 2|12|
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|25|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Servbot]

One of the hounds approaches the fallen Kale, setting on the elf with fury! Again, however, Kale's mythal blocks the attack handily.

Kale becomes hound 4's quarry. Hound 4 attacks! A roll of 22 does not break Kale's defence, though!

The other hound moves into the pass on the east, then lunges at Vasjra! Its fangs sink into Vasjra again, puncturing right through Leif's magical protection and into flesh.

Hound 2 moves, sets Vasjra as a quarry and attacks! Its roll of 25 hits Vasjra, and she takes 18 damage!

It is now Vasjra's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/sF3pfsR.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4), Prone
Nur'agha Var|52/66+8 HP|
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|50|Bloodied
Dire Hound 2|12|
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|25|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, feeling like her old self again completely, turns to the wolf in front of her and attacks it, clawing and biting whatever part of the wolf dares stay within her grasp.

Actions
Standard - Vampire Slam on #1 vs Ref [roll0]
Damage - [roll1], and I can actually push an enemy 1 square on a hit, but I don't want to.
Move - Shift to E13

[Servbot]

Vasjra attacks fervently, but her attacks just don't seem to be able to hit home. The hound remains particularly elusive. The vampire moves deeper into combat.

The last hound moves deeper into the pass and out of sight.

It is now Leif and Nuragha and Kale's turns!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/wL33q5v.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Leif|10
Hound1|8[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4), Prone
Nur'agha Var|52/66+8 HP|
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|50|Bloodied
Dire Hound 2|12|
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|25|Aegis[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

Kales stands up, slightly disoriented from the strain on his warding. As he staggers upwards his familiar pops its head over his shoulder, takes a deep breath and spews flames over the area.

Move Action: Stand
Standard Action: Flame Cyclone (D13/B15)
Attack vs Ref: [roll0] vs Hound 4, [roll1] vs Hound 2
Damage: [roll2]

[Leolo]

Nur'agha rejoins the combat by choosing a foe, and the unholy power of mephistoles surrounds one of the hounds.


I choose you, and you shall not deny.


Then he smite the creature with his axe.


Divine challenge on hound 2, marking him
Move to f13
righteous smite, [roll0], [roll1] and -2 to all attacks UENT

[Infernally Clay]

(sorry, in a bit of a rush and I don't want to slow the game down any more)

Leif moves to G13, then uses Shout of Triumph.


Encounter. Standard. Implement. Thunder. Close blast 3.
Target: Each enemy in blast.
Attack:
Dire Hound 2: [roll0] vs. Fortitude.
Dire Hound 4: [roll1] vs. Fortitude
Hit: [roll]1d6+7[roll] thunder damage, and you push the target 5 squares.
Effect: You slide each ally in the blast 4 squares.

The two Dire Hounds will be moved as far east as possible with Vasjra, Kale and Nur'agha being moved to C15, D15 and E15 respectively. The plan is to box the hounds in, of course. We're not letting them run away as well.

[Infernally Clay]

Damn roll didn't work... [roll0]

[Servbot]

Kale's familiar bathes the area in flames, washing over the two hounds. One, however, manages to jump aside just quick enough: The other is a howling mess of flames.

Only hound 4 is hit!

Nur'agha approaches, searing his adversary with divine might before deftly chopping his axe into the hound. It howls and seems in obvious pain, though no blood is yet drawn.

The attack hits!

Finally, Leif utters a shout of triumph, backed by magic. Before such confidence, the hounds flee, backing off into the pathway that previously saw the other hound run. Her allies feel themselves backed by Leif's strange magics, their movements drawn to close off the path to Leif.

Both hounds are hit and take 12 damage! This bloodies hound 4.

However, from the party's blindspot leaps one of the hounds! The one that had been hiding eagerly springs forward, snapping jaws at Nur'agha. The paladin is taken by surprise and unable to avoid the fangs sinking into him.

Hound 1's readied action triggers! It charges Nur'agha for 11 damage on a roll of 33. Its initiative shifts to before Leif.

Bookkeeping-wise now re-following the initiative order from the top.

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/ab4JSoE.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT

Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Hound1|8+3
Leif|10
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4), Prone
Nur'agha Var|49/66 HP|
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|50|Bloodied
Dire Hound 2|33|Divine challenge, -2 to attack uennt
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|46|Aegis, bloodied[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

As the wolf attempts to sink it teeth into Nur'agha, Kale opens himself to the feywild once again and attempts to intervene, even though it opens him up to retaliation.

Immediate Interrupt: Dimensional Vortex
Encounter, Arcane, Implement, Teleportation
Immediate Interrupt, Ranged 10
Trigger: An enemy hits an ally with a melee attack
Target: The triggering enemy
Attack: Intelligence vs. Will
Hit: You teleport the target 5 squares. The target then makes its melee attack against a creature you choose. If no creatures are within range of the target, the attack is expended.
Aegis of Shielding: If the target is marked by your aegis of shielding power, the target's melee attack deals extra damage equal to your Constitution modifier.
Attack [roll0] vs WILL
Hit: Hound 1 teleports F18/G19 and attacks Hound 2 Instead

Kale Provokes an attack of opportunity from Hound 4

[Servbot]

The hound unfortunately resists the mental assault, and Nur'agha's still attacked!

Still Nur'agha's turn, nothing's changed.

[Leolo]

That hit might have scratched him a little, but most of the attack already vanished within the divine protection Nur'agha Var was surrounded with.

"You can not overcome the power of my lord, small creature! I am protected by my faith."

Again he strikes his already bloodied foe, slashing with his axe and renewing the protection of mephistophiles with a prayer and suddenly one of the engraved faces on his armor starts to shriek in panic and pain, flying to the second hound in ghostly form.


Standard action: Bolstering strike on the hound 1, [roll0]+1 against bloodied+3 lucky charm=26 vs AC, [roll1] damage, and Nur'agha regains 3 temp. Hitpoints
Minor action: Activate Screaming armor power, hound 4 has now -2 to attacks UENT
Minor action: Divine challenge against hound 4

[Servbot]

Nur'agha strikes hard and true, drawing tremendous amounts of blood as his blade severs tendons and muscles, goring the creature. But the hound still stands, shakily and uncertainly... it looks like it could expire at any moment! A stiff breeze might knock it over!

Your attack hits. Mind that divine challenge and aegis override each other, you silly geese. :P Not updating map since it's just so little, please refer to statblock for status ailments.

It is now Kale's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/ab4JSoE.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT

Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Hound1|8+3
Leif|10
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 4), Prone
Nur'agha Var|49/66+3 HP|
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52 HP|Quarry (Dire Hound 2)[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|67|Bloodied
Dire Hound 2|33|
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|46|Divine challenge, -2 to attack uennt, bloodied[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale takes a step back to avoid his opponents while he prepares a spell to blast the 3 beasts.

Minor Action: Aegis of Shielding on Dire Hound 1
Move Action: Shift West 1 square
Standard Action: Argent Rain centered on E17 Encounter, Arcane, Fire, Implement, Zone
Standard Action Area burst 1 within 10 squares
Target: Each creature in the burst
Attack: Highest ability modifier vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d10 + highest ability modifier fire damage.
Effect: The burst creates a zone that lasts until the start of your next turn. Any creature that enters the zone or ends its turn there takes 5 fire damage. A creature can take this damage only once per turn.
Level 11: 10 fire damage.
Level 21: 15 fire damage. Hound 4 [roll0] vs Ref
Hound 1 [roll1] vs Ref
Hound 2 [roll2] vs Ref

Damage: [roll3] fire
The burst creates a zone that lasts until the start of your next turn. Any creature that enters the zone or ends its turn there takes 5 fire damage. A creature can take this damage only once per turn.

[Servbot]

As Kale retreats, he summons an argent rain raining down on the hounds. The creatures are completely taken by surprise, howling in pain! One of them even succumbs to his wounds, dropping to the floor and not getting up again.

The swordsman's mark expires uselessly.

THat's a triple hit, and hound 1 expires.

The remaining hounds seem skitterish and eager to run, but the only way out is blocked by Vasjra and Nur'agha! Desperately the two strike at the stalwart defender, their despair and frantic snapping giving them momentum they need to overpower Nur'agha!

Hound 4 makes Nur its quarry, then hits with a roll of 30 vs AC, doing 20 damage! This bloodies the paladin!

Hound 2 makes Nur its quarry, then CRITS Nur'agha for 23 damage!

It is now Vasjra's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/SxJlZSA.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT

Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Hound1|8+3
Leif|10
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|
Nur'agha Var|9/66 HP|Bloodied, Quarry (Dire hound 2)
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52 HP|[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|79|Dead
Dire Hound 2|45|Bloodied
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|58|Divine challenge, -2 to attack uennt, bloodied[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra tilts her head down, smelling the blood all over the hound in front of her, and gazes at it, and for once in its life the hound is now the prey.
Actions
Minor - Hunter's Gaze on #4: Until the start of your next turn, the target grants combat advantage while you are adjacent to it. In addition, you gain a +4 bonus to the next Intimidate check you make against the target before the end of the encounter.
Standard - Taste of life on #4 vs Fort [roll0]
Damage - [roll1] necrotic damage and I gain 6 THP's
I keep forgetting to add this, but every time I hit, I gain resist 3 to my target's attack UEMNT
Vasjra bites into the hound's hide and rips away some flesh, blood trailing down her mouth.

[Infernally Clay]

"It's okay, I've got you!" Leif shouted at Nur'agha, getting him out of danger before turning to the remaining hound, "This ends now."

Leif uses Majestic Word on Nur'agha (healing 21+[roll0] hit points) while also sliding him two squares west. Leif will then move to the square he stood and use Scorpion's Claw Strike against Dire Hound 2 (no special effect this time; vs AC; attack: [roll1]; damage: [roll2]).

[Servbot]

Vasjra sinks her fangs into the hound, draining the life out of it! When she releases the hound, it is nothing more than a pathetic sack of flesh, drained of all its vigour and blood. It falls to the ground, dead.

Leif, meanwhile, engages the final hound, which retreats, whimpering and whining, obviously not as keen on the fight any more. It's almost over!

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/3DsYUeQ.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT

Nur|28
Kale|17
Hound4|17
Hound2|14
Vasjra|13
Hound1|8+3
Leif|10
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|45/64+18 HP|
Nur'agha Var|34/66 HP|Quarry (Dire hound 2)
Leif|58/58+8 HP|
Vasjra|42/52+6 HP|[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Dire Hound 1|79|Dead
Dire Hound 2|63|Bloodied
Dire Hound 3|75|Dead
Dire Hound 4|76|Dead[/table]

Notes:
- Exhausted condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. If you use your Second Wind, this condition ends for you.
- Fatigue condition: You take a -2 penalty to AC and Reflex until the end of the encounter. Whenever you would spend a healing surge, as a free action you can end this condition for you.
- Knowledge on the hounds is a Nature check, made as a Free Action.
- You came from the southern part of the map.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha charges at the remaining hound, his axe high over his head to finish the fight.


Charge attack [roll0]
[roll1]

[Servbot]

Nur'agha's strike finally downs the hound. With a final howl, it falls to the ground and stops moving.

For the moment, it looks like there's some time for reprieve.

You may take a minor short rest, recovering two of your encounter powers. You may spend any amount of healing surges, but do not have time for lengthy recovery!

Just then, though, the sound of howls resounds from multiple directions! It looks like the fighting has attracted the attention of many more hounds. By the sounds of it, there are a couple dozen!

What's worse, the setting sun has severely reduced the light available. It'll be difficult to find your path through the mountains this way...

You are now in dim light. Creatures without low-light vision can hardly see anything and take a -5 penalty on perception checks.

Skill Challenge time!
You can use Perception (DC 20) to find a route through the mountains. Insight (DC 25) or Nature (DC 20) to guesstimate the movements of the hounds and avoid them.

You can use Stealth (DC 15) to sneak ahead of the others and scout, granting a +5 bonus to an ally's Perception, Insight or Nature check.

If you can find a way to justify other skills, these operate at a DC 20 check or a DC 25 check to pass. A secondary skill justification gives a +5 bonus to a supported check.

You need six successes to shake the hounds' pursuit and find a safe location. If you fail three times, you're instead surrounded!

[Infernally Clay]

Leif has low-light vision! Woo! She'll rest first, however, and regain Majestic Word and Shout of Triumph.

Perception: [roll0]
Stealth: [roll1]

[Darth_Versity]

Healing surge puts me 1 short of full health and I regain Dimentional Vortex and Fey Step

Kale looks out towards the sound of the hounds, trying to discern their location. He silently says a prayer to Oghma for the knowledge of where these creatures will go before attempting to sneak ahead with Leif to avoid the beasts and warn the others.

"If we can find 5 minutes without interruption I can cause a distraction that will keep them off of our backs." he whispers to her.
Perception [roll0]
Religion [roll1]
Stealth [roll2]

I don't suppose a good prayer will give a bonus on knowledge checks considering my god, hmm?

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra licks the blood off of her fingers, savoring the taste, It may be hounds' blood, she thinks, but it tastes good after a long and rough journey. As soon as her ears pick up the sound of more hounds, she is immediately snapped back into the present and on the defensive. She throws off the hood of her cloak, as well as throwing back the cape part, exposing her normal clothing and the feral and bestial look she has seemed to have adopted. She looks around, darting from place to place, and then seems to disappear into the shadows. She scouts a head with the other two, seeing if her keen eyes, that are now glowing a blood red, can see the path before them.

Checks
Stealth - [roll0]
Perception - [roll1]

I also have a good idea for use of my diplomacy check in case we have some hounds get too close to us.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha has travelled many times through the wilderness, and his eyes work in the dim light of the fading sun as well as during the day. His axe becomes invisible again and he puts the hood over his horns to hide them.

But it is really hard to find the path in this mountains, and he has enough experience to not travel in the dark.

"We should find some cavern or earthhole to defend ourself!"


[roll0] Perception check

I also spend 2 healing surges to bring me back to 66 hp and regain the use of astral thunder and righteous smite

[Servbot]

As Kale prays, he gets the feeling as if some divine, cosmic force touches his mind. Images flash before his eyes and... there! That's his group. And there, right beyond...

The images help him guide Leif's movements, and Leif manages to deftly manoeuvre the group deeper into the mountains. When the bard takes a moment to rest, Vasjra deftly takes over, using her keen senses to find an easy path through the mountains.

Just as the group is about to take a forked road, though, Nur'agha directs them to a smaller path he's found: Vasjra can spot a cave in the far distance, perhaps a place of refuge.

They're not there yet, though. The pounding of pawed feet on the ground is loud enough that all can hear. Figures darting through the darkness, searching, seeking the group. Vasjra can clearly make out their features, but for the rest it is something else entirely.

The sun has disappeared fully now, and all that guides the group is the pale light of the rising moon. It is much too little.

3 successes, no failures.

Total darkness has set in. Normal vision people suffer a -10 penalty to Perception checks, low-light vision can barely see anything and take a -5 penalty to Perception checks.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha kneels down, writing something on the ground. Lines and Symbols, and when he starts to pray his hand turns black and a flickering dim light comes from it, setting the symbol in fire. The symbol creates an unholy, irritating feeling, desecrating the place.

"Maybe this can stop them from following us."


Intimidate check to scare the hounds:
[roll0]

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, after speeding through the forest, spies a cave on the side of the mountain. "I see a cave, if we can get there, we can bottle the wolves in and fight just one or two at a time. We may even have time to start a fire. If not, I will cut myself and lead them in a different direction.....the blood should lead them from you. Don't worry about me, I have ways to get away from them...." She tries to lead them farther to the cave, helping those that cannot see at all, and using those that can still see some to her advantage.

Perception check [roll0]
Stealth check (if I can again, if not ignore this) [roll1]

[Darth_Versity]

"Hmm, I remember reading about the journey Fushius the Content. His group were chased by wolves, and they bought themselves some time by distracting them with magical lights. Maybe we can do that as well."

He pulls a sunrod from his pack. "Don't look at it to avoid light blindness." and his strikes the light up and throws it away to lead the attention of the hounds away while they ran.

History: [roll0]
A success should give a +5 to someones stealth, considering the application.

[Servbot]

Vasjra leads the group, deftly avoiding any of the pitfalls nearby. She's rather adept at it, and the group safely nears the cave... When behind them they hear a terrible sound.

The sunrod Kale had tossed seems to glow so much brighter now! It is positively lighting up the backdrop. But then... A shape seems to be contrasted by the light. Through the sky Vasjra can see something soaring beside them... and she barely avoids the falling carcass of a hound!

It is torn to shreds, and a bloody mess no matter how you look at it. Three out of four legs are missing, and its head cannot even be recognised any more. Whatever is out there, it is a terrifying thing.

Nur'agha
That thing you drew. It wasn't just an unholy sign. By Mystra, you've drawn the sigil of your evil God, perhaps unknowingly. And to such devout worship (and possibly not to be outdone by the God of Knowledge), the lord of hell answered in the way only a lord of hell could, and you recognise the large shape as cerberus. These three-headed monsters guard the paths to hell, and good lord you would not want to run into one of these, because your God? Is not benevolent. Is not nice either. The reasons for fleeing just quintupled.

Thankfully no hounds appear to bother you any further. Whether it is whatever that shape in the distance is, or Kale's trickery, Vasjra manages to lead the group safely to and into the cave. It is not a very large cave, but you find it runs deeper than you are right now.

For now though, you are safe, and in the clear. Also in the dark.

Perception check (DC 18)
You can hear the sound of someone humming, faintly from within the cave. It is not a song you can recognise, and it is somehow haunting and alluring. (Roll a save against charm, or be compulsed to head headlong into the cave to meet the sound.)

Skill challenge complete.
Intimidate counts as a success. Kale's bonus to Vasjra's Perception and a circumstantial bonus to her Perception grant her another success, and the group manages to safely avoid the hounds.

You may head out the cave to encounter the cerberus, though I advise you that this is a difficult encounter, and it is still dark. The cave is also very dark, so you're out of luck there, too.

You may take a genuine short rest now to recover the rest of your powers. You may also opt to take an extended rest.

[Infernally Clay]

"I vote we sit our big butts down and relax," Leif sighed, presumably inferring the other three didn't have much choice in the matter, "We can spare a few minutes."

Perception Check!
[roll0]

Saving Throw vs Charm (if needed)!
[roll1]

Leif was evidently overcome with momentary deafness since, even though she's a Bard and thus supposed to be musically inclined, she couldn't hear someone humming in a freakin' cave.

[Darth_Versity]

"Yeah, a rest sounds like an idea..."

Perception [roll0]
ST vs Charm (Just in case) [roll1]

"...should I get a fire started?"

[Leolo]

"The lord of hell is mocking us today. Don't go into the cave, stay here! We should rest not for long and search for another place to hide."

It seems as if the devilish creature knows more about what has killed the hound than he likes to share.


Nur'agha beats the passive perception check
Save against charm [roll0]

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
"Someone.....or some thing.....is in this cave with us. We should......" Vasjra stopped all of a sudden, and looked back into the cave. She slowly started walking back into the cave, for some reason very interested as to what what in the cave and what was making this noise.

I get it with my passive Perception.
Roll for Charmed: [roll0]

[Leolo]

"Don't hear to the voices in the dark, don't listen to their call. Hear my voice and clear your mind, for you shall not trust the temptation there."


Nur'agha steps to Vasrja, and the eyes of the devilishly knight focus her.

"Come to me."

divine mettle, vasrja can roll another save and gets a +5 to the roll

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
As Vasjra starts to walk back into the cave, she hears another voice in her head, calling her back to her comrades. Then all of a sudden she seems to snap out of it, "Thank you. I am normally not taken in by such head games. But this voice in my head reminded me of someone I met long, long ago....a man, sort of, and he called to me. Let us leave this place, we need not sleep and rest for any long period of time."

Second Save - [roll0]

Are we able to take a 5? If so, I would like to at least do that.

[Servbot]

As one, the group resists the urgings from the cave on deep. Though the humming does not stop, its sound does not allure and the party can rest in all peace.

Will the group leave, or venture into the cave?

You can take 10 on a DC 15 Perception check (at a -5 penalty unless darkvision) to navigate through the darkness. If you don't mind taking quite a while, you can take 20 on the Perception check as well.

[Infernally Clay]

"I'm curious what's down there," Leif said, seemingly refreshed, "Maybe it's just a dainty lady humming a tune to herself. Either way, if they're smart enough to hum then they're likely smart enough to speak. Anyone want to tag along?"

Standing up, Leif began to walk towards whoever - or whatever - it was that was humming the tune (and she definitely takes 10 on the Perception check to navigate).

[Darth_Versity]

"Hmm, it's dark. It'll be hard to see anything. I do have another sunrod though." he pulls the second rod from his bag but doesn't strike it just yet. "Unless someone has a better solution."

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra quietly laughs at the Eladrin's suggestion, "Keep your light to yourself, Eladrin. My eyes can navigate us through the dark. Yet another of my gifts from my condition."

Perception [roll0] to find our way. Should take the 10 the way the dice have been treating me, but I like to live dangerously :smallbiggrin:

Stealth [roll1] as soon as I see something that might be a threat to me. I will guide the others by whispers if I am, indeed, hidden.

[Leolo]

Whoever is waiting in this cave has already perceived us. There is no need to hide anymore, so turn on your sunrod.


Nur'agha still does not like to walk into the cave and ignore the warning signs, but he would follow nevertheless and try to protect the others.

[Servbot]

After the group rests up, it is Leif who takes the lead and suggests they all head down into the cave. The decision becomes unanimous, and groping through the darkness (until Kale has the sense to put up a sunrod), the group makes their way down the cave.

As they make their way in, even Leif and Kale can hear the song, and in turn they too become bewitched... but the enchantment is temporarily, and they both shake off the effects of compulsion.

Took the liberty of rolling saves for you two, you both succeed; Offensively, Kale succeeds on a nat 20. :smalleek:

After a while, the group finds the narrow path through the cavern expands, giving way to more spacious... hallways? Hallways. And finally, they come to a larger opening. There are ruins here, old by the looks of it, but perfectly intact.

DC 18 History check
These are the ruins of Karshtat, an ancient city estimated to have disappeared eight-hundred years ago. You recognise the heraldry instantly; To be fair, there aren't many cities featuring a barrel pierced by an arrow. It was a self-autonomous, self-sufficient city of Dwarves and, surprisingly, Drow. Whatever compulsed their joint living confounds historians to this day.

The location of Karshtat has long been known to be "somewhere in the mountains", though there's been no reports of someone actually stumbling onto them. Whatever the cause of Karshtat's mysterious disappearance, you stand before an ancient city, seemingly unharmed.

Most of what has been uncovered of Karshtat are ancient banners and diaries of scouts. The discovery of this city might well be worth quite a lot to interested experts.

Near a construction that passes for a fountain, but from which no water emerges, there is a figure. Its mask hides most of the features of its proportionally large head, and its body is gaunt and slender, almost frail. From its lips comes the humming, and from close by you can clearly hear the haunting melancholy in the melody.

The figure is surrounded by what anyone could recognise as imps. Tiny critters, known for their mischief, but here they sit in quiet wonder, as if enchanted by the song.

When the figure notices your group, the humming stops. The imps look about a bit dazed, then scatter in all directions, disappearing into the ruins.

"Grom wasn't expecting visitors again," the figure says quietly. Though it speaks in the Common tongue, its pronunciation is different, somehow awkard, and its choice of words oddly archaic.

DC 10 Insight
There is no hostility whatsoever from the figure, though you can sense the preening eyes of the imps on your group.

[Infernally Clay]

"You don't get many, then?" Leif said, "We were passing through and heard your music. It was very beautiful."

History! Insight!
History: [roll0]
Insight: [roll1]

"You picked a strange place to settle down, at any rate. I imagine it would be pretty hard to find company here."

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra didn't say much, this little odd man-creature gave her an odd feeling. Not that she felt threatened, he was just.......odd.

History: [roll0] Vasjra doesn't really know her history, so I don't expect this roll to be good :smalltongue:
Insight: Passive got it

[Darth_Versity]

History [roll0]
Insight [roll1]

Kale was busy staring around him at the amazing ruins. If he had more time he would stand himself and gather as much information about this amazing city, but he would have to save it for another time.

He looked at the... Grom. "You said you didn't expect visitors again. When was the last time you had visitors, and who were they? We're looking for a friend and she may have passed this way."

[Servbot]

The figure tilts its head. "You speak... like he did," it says after a moment's thought. Then it rises, and you notice all at once that, if it wasn't obvious already, the creature is not human. Its legs, though hidden in boots, do not end in feet at all. It's a mystery what they do end in.

Now that it's standing, it's also easy to tell that it's a small race, whatever it is; The mask hides its most prominent features, and its clothing is mostly obfuscating robes.

"Ehol. Call this servant Ehol," the figure says, and it gestures towards the ruins. "Grom inside. Grom does not like company. Hates it. Even this humble servant, forced to stay here and find company with the imps." It laughs humourlessly. "Grom says Grom is king of imps."

After shaking its head, Ehol sizes your party up. Considers, rubbing one of its thin, long fingers over the length of its mask. "If you look for someone, Grom will know, if they went here. She, it is a female? This humble servant saw no females. Only males." It pauses. "They came, and Grom met them. This humble servant overhead them talk about a coronation. They were late, this servant recalls."

[Darth_Versity]

"They were late? Hmm... What were they Ehol? I mean, do you know what race they were?"

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra finally spoke up, "Who were these men Ehol? Did they have any symbols on them or anything that identified them? May we see Grom and talk to him about them?" She tries turning on her charm to sway this odd little creature's mind.

Diplomacy [roll0]

[Servbot]

Ehol pauses for a moment, then hesitantly, "Ehol does not know. This humble servant's time among others has been brief, very brief, but..." It looks at Vasjra, and Vasjra can see keen red eyes blinking from behind two slight holes in the mask. "If the venerable visitors visit Grom, all will be clear, but... but Ehol hesitates. This humble servant worries for--"

From within the ruins, a low, rumbling sound interrupts Ehol, who literally jumps at the sound and begins to shiver. "Grom calls, calls the humble servant and venerable visitors. Grom knows you are here. Knows, and it..." Ehol stops abruptly and shakes its head, pointing to a large building Vasjra can make out in the darkness. Its towers and general shape is reminiscent of a small palace, its old architecture showing clear signs of majesty despite its age. It is one of few buildings that is actually damaged, with two of its five towers sunk down into the structure.

Then, wordlessly, Ehol begins moving towards it, gesturing for the party to follow him. Around you, the imps seem to almost party.

Insight DC 13
Ehol's voice is shaky and he seems very afraid of something. It all started from the moment the rumbling sound came.
Insight DC 20
You can plainly sense that all the imps around you are on edge, and their erratic movements hint at extreme expectant delight. There's a foreboding feeling you get, the sense that whatever Ehol is leading you to is something very, very dangerous.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra looks at the others, "Well we might as well go see what this thing is....it may have some answers as to what happened to our lady, but keep on guard. Ehol seems nice and harmless enough and likes us, apparently, but we have no idea about what this Grom is."

"Ehol", Vasjra continues while slowly walking next to Ehol, "what, exactly, is Grom? What manner of creature is he?"

Insight for the Higher DC: [roll0]
Monster knowledge on Ehol Religion [roll1]

[Infernally Clay]

"He sounds... large," Leif laughed, although sensing Ehol's hesitation, she turned to their strange new friend and tried to comfort her, "Don't worry. We want to speak to Grom. You don't need to fear for our safety, or yours. We're a confident bunch."

Turning to the others, she whispered, "And if worst comes to worst, Vasjra can hit him over the head with her boobs. That always works."

[Darth_Versity]

"You are of course, assuming, that this Grom enjoys boobs. And Drow ones at that. Not nessasarily the case!" Kale whispered back.
Insight [roll0]
History: [roll1]

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra gave Leif an exasperated and annoyed look, "You know I have always wondered what half-elf blood tasted like, little girl.....I may just have to find out today if you don't watch your silver tongue." Giving Leif one more threatening glance, Vasjra turned her focus on the trail ahead....to this "Grom".

[Darth_Versity]

Kale looked at Leif, a grin spreading across his face. "Be careful. Vasjra's comebacks have a lot of bite to them!"

[Infernally Clay]

Sticking her silver tongue out at Vasjra, Leif replied, "You should have said you were hungry earlier - I would have treated you to a stake."

[Darth_Versity]

"Don't set her off. Once she starts complaining she's a real pain in the neck."

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra rolls her eyes at Leif, "Watch it Leif, or I will have to bard you from talking from now on....your jokes aren't striking many chords," she finishes with a sly smile of her own.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale doubled over in mock laughter at Vasjra's joke. "Oh dear, that was fangtastic!"

[Servbot]

History DC 18 Monster Knowledge
You've heard about creatures that somewhat resemble Ehol. Disturbingly, these creatures mostly come from the Underdark, and none of the tales there are particularly good. It's difficult to decide which creature it could be: Ehol's intellect and cognitive abilities, as well as its emotional range, suggests it isn't a wrack-born. Its small body might point to it being a sort of goblin, and in particular you've heard something about droblins; Which, really, are Drow-Goblins, far as the books are concerned.

A droblin is often a slave, subservient to larger, more evil creatures from the Underdark. Their culture is one of suffering and servitude, and many of them are suspected to be mindless thralls. They're known for having a deep hatred of all surface-dwellers, though in all things there are exceptions. There are few records of droblins being completely willing to speak to surface-dwellers, though these records speak of little good. Their thoughts seem uniformly focused on one thing: Death of all surface-dwellers.

It should be noted that no droblin is known to use magic, and the song Ehol hummed was clearly magic. It may just be that your knowledge of droblins is insufficient here.

As the group makes light-hearted banter, Nur'agha wisely keeping to the side of it, Ehol trudges on silently, leading the group past a long street. The width of the street suggests it was the main street, as there's plenty of room for stalls. It ends in a large plaza, a statue in its centre. On the pedestal, there is a dwarf. The dwarf is holding a pickaxe over its head. Peculiarly, its ears are long--Elven-like. Or Drow-like, as could be the case.

None of the group even remotely know who this could be, as such knowledge is lost.

The grand building beyond the plaza is something else, though. The roof is incredibly high, held up by stone pillars that show damage and cracks. The cracks and damage aren't from age, but blunt force more-like.

The smell of blood comes wafting from inside, though Ehol just trudges onward mechanically. They enter the building, and find themselves in a large room. Various archways hold up the ceiling. Some are just there for decoration, though, still held up by the numerous pillars. At the very end of the room, a magical fire burns on either side of a gaping hole. The hole is about fifty feet high and equally wide.

From the gaping hole emerges a large, worm-like creature. Its large body has many appendages protruding, grasping blindly around in the air. At the top of its... presumably front, sits a head. Though human in shape, it is at least four times as large. Its "neck", as much as it can be considered one, is actually a massive jaw, and it is plainly chewing on something.

You see fresh blood dripping from its teeth, and here and there you can see remains of what used to be humanoids. Its large, hollow eyes stare ahead plainly, as if it hasn't acknowledged you at all.

Ehol has parted to the side, head bowed, saying nothing.

The magical light illuminates the room well enough that low-light vision grants perfect sight here.

Perception DC 18
One of the bodies, there are two, wears a tabard. You plainly recognise the heraldry of the Kingdom emblazoned on it. The other body is too mangled to recognise anything of it.

[Darth_Versity]

Perception [roll0]
Dungeoneering [roll1]

Hmm, apparently I see nothing and know nothing!
Kale stares at the creature in obvious disgust and looks to his companions for confirmation of his distaste.

"What in the nine hells is that thing?" he asks, trying to keep his voice down to avoid the beasts notice.

[Infernally Clay]

Intimidate: [roll0]
Bluff: [roll1]

Rather than answer Kale's question which, to be honest, wracked Leif's mind as well, the Half-Elf put on her best poker face and sought to get the answer from the putrid pile of whateverthehellitis. If it wouldn't acknowledge their presence, however, Leif would make it.

"We are travellers, passing through on the trail of someone important to us and nothing will impede us," Leif's said, her voice thick with confident menace, "We have questions. If you know anything, you will tell us. If you lie to us, I will know - and that won't end well for you."

Don't screw me over! Don't screw me over! :smalleek:

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra has an idea....all of these references to her people....."My friend here speaks the truth. We are burdened with glorious purpose," Vasjra says stepping forward. "The drow have an important mission, and if you know anything of my people, you not to to get in our way. Please tell us what we need to know, I would love for all of us to walk away in one piece."

Diplomacy [roll0]

[Servbot]

None of the group makes the attempt to gaze in the creature's jaw. Perhaps it is for the best. It chews, despite the party's demands. After a moment, it makes a gutteral sound and the bodies disappear further into its body... or what's left of them.

Its head turns downward, its nose pointing towards the group... But really, the eye sockets are empty. There's no way to tell what it's looking at.

Then it speaks. Or does something that resembles speaking. Loud, booming sounds emerge from its large, jawed mouth, sending small bits of gore flying from his teeth. The ground seems to positively shake from the force of its speech, and the four Vengeful Spirits have to brace themselves not to be toppled over.

None of them have any clue what the creature just said, however.

Streetwise DC 18
You recognise the language as being Abyssal. You... have no clue what it just said, though.

Insight DC 18
You have no idea what it just said, but you're pretty sure it intends to eat the four of you. You have a hunch that whatever visitors came here before... were just swallowed before your very eyes.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
"Ehol, what did it say? You seem to understand it. You are a droblin, aren't you? We are akin to each other. Tell me what it said, I don't want to have to hurt it, but from the looks of its mouth, it doesn't mean to help us." She hope Ehol will answer her before they are forced into a fight. Vasjra is used to gore, but this amount is unseemly. Not because it is bloody and gross, but because it is simply unclean.

Streetwise - [roll0]
Diplomacy for a quick answer from Ehol [roll1]

Edit: Maybe I get a bonus because he likes me so much already? :smallamused::smalltongue:

[Darth_Versity]

Streetwise: [roll0]
Insight: [roll1]

"Well, I have no idea what it said, but I see which way this is going." He pulls his sword out and a faint glow appears across its edge as he activate his defensive warding. "I understand that this thing wants to eat us."

"Vae..." he calls, and the small dragon comes flying over from its exploration of the ruins and perches on his shoulder. He then checks on his companions to see if they are prepared as well.

[Leolo]

In fact they are. Nur'agha especially has looked at this thing with anger and infernal hate from the beginning. This creature must be a demon of some sort, and though the tiefling is only lightly bound on the devils of the nine hells he still serves mephistoles and feels the blood of stronger infernal beings in himself.

It is pretty clear that he likes to attack the creature and just waits for a sign of his allies, and he even speaks a little prayer to bless his weapon.


[roll0] Streetwise
[roll1] Perception to see if there are more foes
Minor action: Bless weapon
Standard action: Readied action: When the thing attacks us i will attack him first

[Infernally Clay]

"I know I'm not usually the one to call for patience," Leif said, motioning to the others to put away their weapons, "But let's hear what this guy has to say, yeah?"

Leif then attempted to figure out what language Grom spoke.

Streetwise: [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

Figuring out that Grom spoke Abyssal, Leif then used the Comprehend Languages ritual to understand what he says.

Arcana: [roll0]

Turning to Ehol, she asked their new friend, "Tell him that I can understand what he says now and that if he'll allow you to translate what I say, we can actually talk."

[Servbot]

As the creature begins stirring, Ehol quickly begins clacking in the Abyssal tongue to it. Leif alone can understand the sounds, though:

"M, Master Grom, these adventurers wish to... wish to converse. Especially her," Ehol gestures to Leif, "and you will find she'll understand your words and mine..."

As Ehol speaks, tendrils emerge from holes in the room, swiping around fearfully... But Ehol's words seem to have some effect, as the monstrous creature does not lunge forth just yet!

It pauses momentarily instead, then begins speaking again. This time, Leif understands it perfectly.

"I am NOT in the habit of SPEAKING with my FOOD," it states, solemnly. "For that PATHETIC servant's sake, you WILL have something of great import to SAY."

You are now in (possible) surprise round!

http://i.imgur.com/O311sO9.jpg

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra looked around her, she didn't like big-mouthed creatures that wanted to eat her. She especially didn't like it when she was surrounded my tentacles that most likely were for scooping her into the giant mouth. She was on guard, and waiting for the other to make a move, or not, before she did anything.

Religion - [roll0]
Perception - [roll1]

[Servbot]

Vasjra
You haven't a clue on what Grom is. Never before seen this kind of creature, at all.

But the tentacles... you can tell there's something weird about them. Their suction pads seem dangerously capable of holding someone, and you suspect from their thick volume that they would have no trouble crushing even Nur'agha with relative ease, left unattended.

No, what's important to notice is that... these tentacles aren't from a separate creature, they're part of Grom! You suspect that if you harm these tentacles, you'll harm Grom as well. Probably wouldn't kill it; You'd sever the tentacle before that. But it might be useful.

[Infernally Clay]

"As you can see," Leif said, "My friends are itching for a fight - and while I would greatly prefer that it didn't come to that, you would lose."

"If you help us find who we are looking for, if you can give us any information about people who have passed through this area recently, we can guarantee a feast unlike anything you've ever tasted," unsheathing her sword, Leif pointed the blade towards Grom, "[color="#66023C"]Otherwise we'll cut you down here and now and, I dunno, maybe Vasjra will feast upon you..."

Without breaking her eye contact with Grom, Leif added one final line, "If things get ugly, Ehol, you must run. We'll cover your escape."

[Darth_Versity]

Religion [roll0]
Kale spun his weapon with the casual ease of a trained swordsman while eyeing up the tentacles, waiting for his moment to strike.

[Infernally Clay]

"Somehow I don't think you're in a talkative mood," Leif said, "Ehol, run!"

Action:
Leif uses Shout of Triumph, targeting the tentacle behind the group (close blast 3; vs Fort; attack: [roll0]; damage: [roll1]). I'll assume it can't be pushed, however, so Leif will simply slide her allies as close to it as possible instead. They get four squares of movement with this power regardless of whether it hits or not. If Ehol counts as an ally, she'll be moved as far from Grom as possible.

[Leolo]

"Enough of the talking, let's bring down this beast and throw it back to abyss."

Nur'agha is really not in the mood to negotiate with this creature. Every drop of his infernal blood feels heated, filled with hate and lust for violance. When Leif shouts he moves forward, attacking the beast with his invisible axe that now becomes visible in his hand.

"I'll pay my dept."


I think Nur' would be slided straight forward
Righteous smite:

Standard action: [roll0] vs AC of the demon
Hit:
[roll1] damage + [roll2] radiant damage,
Nur' and all allies within 5sq gain 8 temp. Hitpoints.
The demon gains a -5 to attack rolls until the end of Nur'aghas next turn.

[Servbot]

As Leif attacks, Grom unleashes a terrifying scream, temporarily dazing the group! Diplomacy has broken down in the face of Grom's hunger, and the party finds itself in a fight!

Leif's shout of triumph doesn't damage anything, but all her allies are slid and may reposition themselves. Please mention where you'd like to go before I update? :-)

Nur's action is cancelled. As I said in OOC, first to attack begins initiative and ends the surprise round.

Vasjra is the first to respond!

It is now Vasjra's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/sUCSjj1.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|64/64 HP|??|
Nur'agha Var|66/66 HP|??|
Leif|58/58 HP|??|
Vasjra|52/52 HP|??|
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|0|[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|0|
Grom tentacle A|0|
Grom tentacle B|0|
Grom tentacle C|0|
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it.
- Gotta tally up your healing surge usage to fill that table.

[Darth_Versity]

At Leif's shout, Kale glides backwards and readies starts to cast a spell.
Slide to I17.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra nods at Leif's telling her where to go. She runs to some of the tentacles, biting and slashing at them. Thought their blood tasted awful, it still fueled her. "The tentacles are part of Grom! Hurt them and you hurt it, and stay away from the suckers, they will crush you if you are held too long!!"

Actions
Free from Leif - Move to I14
Minor - Cloud of darkness centered on me
Standard - Taste of Life vs Fort [roll0]
Damage - [roll1], and I get resist 3 from Grom's attacks & 6 THP's
Free - Blood Drinker if I hit with Taste of Life, extra [roll2] and I gain a HS

[Servbot]

Spurred on by Leif's shout, the allies move and take up their positions. Vasjra capitalises, sinking her teeth into the tentacle as a cloud of darkness springs up, shrouding her in darkness.

She can sense that damaging the tentacle does wonders against it, and it even slightly hurts Grom, too. Everyone wins, except for the tentacle.

Grom's tentacle and Grom share a lifelink, and Grom takes half the damage the tentacle took.

Grom advances, undeterred and unrecognising of any damage. From its head it emits a piercing shriek, placing a heavy assault on the group's psyches. The ringing from the shriek leaves them disoriented and baffled, their ears ringing still!

Grom uses a minor action to launch ear-piercing shriek, dealing 2 damage to all who can hear it, and all targets are deafened until the start of Grom's next turn.

Meanwhile, Grom lunges forward towards Leif, though the bard manages to avoid just in time; Though its large teeth graze Leif and leave her wounded, she is not snapped up into its massive jaw!

Grom uses gore, missing Leif on a roll of 17 vs Fort, dealing half damage as a result! Leif takes 12 damage.

Kale is first to recover from the shriek...

It is Kale's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/UJ23u5c.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|61/64 HP|8/9|Deafened
Nur'agha Var|64/66 HP|9/12|Deafened
Leif|44/58 HP|11/11|Deafened
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|3/2|Resist 3 all (tentacle A), deafened
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|12|
Grom tentacle A|24|
Grom tentacle B|0|
Grom tentacle C|0|
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it.

[Darth_Versity]

Kale stumbles from the deafening roar, but doesn't let it effect his chanting. Sweat beads on his forehead as the list of arcane syllables is released in a spell of magical fire that flies towards Grom.

An unheard sigh escapes as he flees to the east from the creature, pausing just long enough to create a magical link between himself and one of the tentacles.

Standard Action: Arcane Fire vs Grom Daily, Arcane, Fire, Implement
Standard Action, Close burst 10
Target: One creature in burst
Attack: Intelligence vs. Fortitude
Hit: 2d10 + Constitution modifier fire damage, and the creature is marked as if from your Swordmage Aegis power until the end of the encounter. This does not end existing marks placed by your Swordmage Aegis power, and using your Swordmage Aegis power to mark another enemy does not end this mark. Another creature’s mark supersedes this one.
Miss: The creature is marked as if from your Swordmage Aegis power until the end of the encounter. This does not end existing marks placed by your Swordmage Aegis power, and using your Swordmage Aegis power to mark another enemy does not end this mark. Another creature’s mark supersedes this one.
Aegis of Shielding: Until the end of the encounter, when you reduce the damage the target deals using aegis of shielding, the target takes fire damage equal to the amount of damage your aegis of shielding power prevents.
Attack: [roll0] vs Fort, Damage: [roll1] fire

Minor Action: Aegis of shielding vs Tentacle 1
Move Action: Move to H23

Grom and Tentacle 1 are both marked with my Aegis power.

[Servbot]

Kale's magic is not halted by the ear-piercing scream, and waves upon waves of flame roll from his blade towards Grom! The creature, however, weathers the assault easily, and the licking flames can't seem to penetrate the creature's tough and slimy skin. The mark of the swordsman still burns into Grom, however, and its protective magics activate immediately.

Kale's attack misses, but the mark still goes through.

The swordsman moves on and imposes his mark on the nearby tentacle as well. It avails none: Despite the swordsman's aegis working hard to slow the tentacle's movements, and in spite of Vasjra's cloud of darkness, the tentacle LASHES OUT and coils around Leif, dragging the unfortunate bard closer to it and constricting her movements!

The tentacle rolls a 25 against Leif's Reflex, and even the penalties don't bring it down to 17. Leif is grabbed, pulled 1 square and she takes 7 damage!

Ehol, on its part, does something... but only Vasjra can see the creature cowering. It says something, but the ringing in her ears hasn't stopped and its words are entirely lost on her.

Ehol uses total defence. Vasjra knows it is at H-10.

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/4p70Gx8.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|61/64 HP|8/9|Deafened
Nur'agha Var|64/66 HP|9/12|Deafened
Leif|37/58 HP|11/11|Deafened, Grabbed
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|3/2|Resist 3 all (tentacle A), deafened
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|12|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|24|Aegis
Grom tentacle B|0|
Grom tentacle C|0|
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha is near enough to attack the tentacle next to grom before he moves to the flank of the demon. The axe in his hand becomes visible when he swings it after the thing but now you can see it emerging a bloodred unholy light, a blessing of the dark lord of the Tiefling.


Bolstering Strike against Tentacle 2, [roll0] vs AC
[roll1] damage, plus [roll2] radiant damage
also -5 to attacks until the end of Nur'aghas turn.
Shift to G19
Monster Knowledge Check (Religion): [roll3]
Monster Knowledge Check (Arcana): [roll4]

[Servbot]

The paladin's attack cleanly slices through the tentacle, spraying purple blood around as the tentacle recoils. It's not enough to bloody it, but the tentacle didn't like that one bit! Grom also seems affected...!

Nur'agha hits for 19 damage, of which 9 transfers to Grom.

Knowledge checks turn up nothing.

Though Nur'agha attempts to flank Grom, the tentacle reaches out to him, wrapping itself around him and dragging him right back! Nur'agha's grasped tightly, and he can feel the tentacle attempting to crush him in its grip!

Nur'agha is grabbed due to a roll of 20 vs Reflex, and he loses 7 HP in addition to being pulled 1!

The other tentacle seems to be doing nothing, but you never know...

Leif is in a similar predicament to Nur. She can feel the slimy thing coiling around her in an attempt to squeeze out her very life...

It is now Leif's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/Vg7cOe2.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|61/64 HP|8/9|Deafened
Nur'agha Var|57/66 HP|9/12|Deafened, grabbed
Leif|37/58 HP|11/11|Deafened, grabbed
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|3/2|Resist 3 all (tentacle A), deafened
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|21|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|24|Aegis
Grom tentacle B|19|-5 to attack rolls ueNt
Grom tentacle C|0|
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it.

[Infernally Clay]

"You're already so touchy feely and this is only our first date!" Leif sighed, trying to free herself from the tentacle's grasp.

Move Action: Acrobatics Check: [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

Having broken free, Leif regained her footing and dashed to the side of the tentacle before whispering an enchantment upon her sword and striking a powerful blow in retaliation. With a wise word of warning, Leif allowed Vasjra to reposition herself and anticipate the tentacle's attacks more easily.

Move: To K16.
Minor: Echoing Weapon.

The next attack from the chosen weapon until the end of your next turn deals an additional [roll0] damage regardless of whether it hits or misses.
Standard: Scorpion's Claw Strike.

[roll1] vs AC. [roll2]+7 damage. Slide ally adjacent to target to another square adjacent to target and give them a +4 AC bonus until the end of your next turn.
Total Damage: 26
Vasjra is slid to J13 to flank the tentacle, giving her combat advantage on her turn.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, moved by Leif's song, feels her animal side coming up again. Her teeth grow longer, and her nails grow long and turn harder. Her eyes glow ever more red, and she strikes at the tentacles, hoping to find purchase.

Actions
Standard - Unfettered Hunger vs Ref [roll0]
Damage - [roll1], Until the end of the encounter, you gain a +2 power bonus to attack rolls and a +4 power bonus to damage rolls, you can shift up to your speed as a move action, and you cannot spend healing surges to regain hit points.
Move - Shift to D12
Action Point!!! (if the first hits)
Standard - Feral Assault vs Ref [roll2]
Damage - [roll3], I lose a healing surge putting me at 2/2, and do [roll4] extra damage.

Sigh, I really hope this all works out. :smalleek:

Yay, it did! RAWR!!! :smallyuk:
Everyone hears a big *THUMP* from where Vasjra is and sees the part of the tentacle not in her cloud fall to the ground. Then, like lightning, you see her dash from her cloud, it disappearing as she does, and she attacks the farthest tentacle, ripping into it with her teeth and claws. You have all gone on missions with her before, but the Vasjra you know is usually very calm, collected, and intentional. The Vasjra you now see is wild, bestial, and impulsive, and it almost looks as though she can't tell friend from foe.....or if she even cares.....

[Servbot]

Leif slips free of the tentacle appendage, landing with such grace that she manages to roll ahead a little, slicing the tentacle in the process!

19 damage, 9 transfers to Grom

Then Vasjra attacks, slicing the tentacle, cleanly severing it! All sorts of gooey stuff sprays from the appendage before it drops down into the floor and disappears.

Not content with that kill, the vampire surges forth, deftly avoiding the tentacle's desperate attempt to save itself and she severs it as well!

25 damage to Grom from tentacle 3, 2 from tentacle 1.

Grom, however, isn't about to let things go uncontested! It moans for a moment, whereupon the tentacle near Leif arises from its depths! It looks rather ravaged and bloodied, though.

Both Nur'agha and Kale feel a strong mental pressure against them: Grom seriously looks terrifying to them! Although Nur'agha manages to withstand a primal instinct to run, Kale finds himself involuntarily moving away from Grom!

Grom uses appendage recovery to recover a tentacle.

Grom uses terrifying presence, attacking Nur'agha and Kale. Nur'agha resists against a roll of 16, but Grom's 18 against Kale's Will pushes Kale 2 squares in addition to dealing 14 psychic damage.

It is Kale's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/PWvLMYD.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|47/64 HP|8/9|
Nur'agha Var|57/66 HP|9/12|Grabbed
Leif|37/58 HP|11/11|Grabbed
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|2/2|Feral state
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|65|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|45|Dead
Grom tentacle B|19|-5 to attack rolls ueNt
Grom tentacle C|50|Dead
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it.

[Darth_Versity]

The mental assault just manages to penetrate his defences, but recovering quickly, Kale begins to cast more spells. First he performs a simple charm that enhances his warding, and then he begins to blast Grom with more fire. The energy wells up inside of him and surges forward in an arc of brilliant flame.

With no time to enjoy the sight of his work, he moves over to help Nur'agha with his Tentacle.

Minor Action: Host of Shields (+2 AC/Ref)
Standard: Argent Rain on I16Encounter, Arcane, Fire, Implement, Zone
Standard Action Area burst 1 within 10 squares
Target: Each creature in the burst
Attack: Highest ability modifier vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d10 + highest ability modifier fire damage.
Effect: The burst creates a zone that lasts until the start of your next turn. Any creature that enters the zone or ends its turn there takes 5 fire damage. A creature can take this damage only once per turn.
Level 11: 10 fire damage.
Level 21: 15 fire damage.
Grom [roll0] vs Ref
Tentacle 1 [roll1] vs Ref
Damage: [roll2] (creates a zone)

Move Action: Move to F23

[Servbot]

Kale protects himself with a host of shields and calls down an argent rain on Grom. It sears both the monster and its tentacle appendage; Kale doesn't notice this, instead moving forward to assist Nur'agha against the grabbing tentacle...

But the tentacle he assaulted, beset by fire, just ignores it all to once more seize Leif in its tentacular grip! The attack's fierceness is mitigated, but Leif still finds herself dangling in its grip...

Its attack roll of 26 is enough against Leif's Reflex, and Leif is grabbed! Also takes 5 damage.

Grom takes 4, then 2 damage.

Ehol wants to escape, but finds no opportunity to do so yet! It remains cowering.

Nur'agha finds himself bound by tentacle...

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/NhbspsK.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|47/64 HP|8/9|Host of shields (+2 AC/Ref)
Nur'agha Var|57/66 HP|9/12|Grabbed
Leif|32/58 HP|11/11|Grabbed
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|2/2|Feral state
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|79|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|38|Bloodied
Grom tentacle B|19|-5 to attack rolls ueNt
Grom tentacle C|50|Dead
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it. (Currently heeding Vasjra's command to depart.)

[Leolo]

You think you can hold me? I don't care how close you are demon, as long as my axe is in your rotten flesh.


The tentacle is attacked again by the Paladin and this time his sword, glowing red fueled by the power of the lord of the nine hells throws sparks around the tiefling, blocking and slowing the attacks against all that are near enough.


Righteous smite
[roll0] vs AC of Tentacle 2
[roll1] +
[roll2] radiant damage
and nur plus allies within 5sq gain 8 temp hp

Divine challenge against tentacle 2, mark it
Athletics to break free
[roll3]
Shift to 1sq near grom southwest

[Servbot]

Nur'agha bloodies the tentacle before pulling himself free of its hold. His vigilance inspires his allies!

The tentacle feebly attempts to swing at Nur'agha, but its wounds prevent it from moving freely.

Tentacle rolls a nat 1 and misses.

It is now Leif's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/qXPhpuo.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|47/64+8 HP|8/9|Host of shields (+2 AC/Ref)
Nur'agha Var|57/66+8 HP|9/12|
Leif|32/58+8 HP|11/11|Grabbed
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|2/2|Feral state
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|79|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|38|Bloodied
Grom tentacle B|42|Bloodied, divine challenge
Grom tentacle C|50|Dead
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it. (Currently heeding Vasjra's command to depart.)

[Infernally Clay]

"Seriously?!" Leif shouted in exasperation, "I know I'm attractive but do you have to be so clingy?!"

Rather than slip from its grasp as before, Leif decided to cut the tentacle down. She didn't like rejecting suitors more than once but this one was evidently unable to take the hint.

Actions:
Standard Action: War Song Strike

At-Will ✦ Arcane, Weapon
Standard Action, Melee weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: [roll0] vs. AC
Hit: [roll1] damage, and any ally who hits the target before the end of your next turn gains temporary hit points equal to your Constitution modifier.

No Action: Takedown Strike

Encounter ✦ Martial
No Action, Melee 1
Trigger: You hit an enemy adjacent to you with an attack.
Target: The triggering enemy
Effect: The target takes extra damage from the triggering attack equal to the ability modifier used in the triggering attack (5 damage), and you knock the target prone.

Move Action: Moment of Escape

Encounter ✦ Arcane
Move Action, Ranged 10
Target: Vasjra
Effect: You slide the target 4 squares.

Minor Action: Revitalising Incantation

Encounter ✦ Arcane, Healing
Minor Action, Ranged 5
Target: Herself
Effect: The target can spend a healing surge (recovering 14 HP). Additionally, the target gains temporary hit points equal to his or her healing surge value.

Once free of the tentacle's grip, Leif called Vasjra, urging her closer to Grom so that they could end this battle, and whispered a few words to herself to heal her wounds and renew her vigor.

"I tried to give you an easy way out," Leif said to Grom, "I warned you that you would lose and a Bard rarely lies."

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, after licking up the blood from the tentacles she had on her hands, found herself slid next to the big mouth of a monster, Grom. She grinned a wicked, wicked grin and tore into it, gazing at it and starting it down.

Actions
Slid to G16 (I assume)
Minor - Forced Advantage, Until the end of your next turn, you gain combat advantage against the target and a +2 power bonus to all defenses against the target's attacks. You also take a -2 penalty to attack rolls on attacks that do not include the target.
Standard - Vampire Slam, vs Ref [roll0]
Damage - [roll1]
No Action - Blood Drinker, [roll2] and I gain a healing surge, putting me to 3/2.

[Servbot]

Leif strikes with determination, cleanly chopping off the tentacle once more, and it retreats into its dark abyss. When she tries to move Vasjra, however, Leif makes a critical error in judgement: She's too close to Grom to do that unprovoked!

She doesn't manage to escape its snapping teeth, luckily suffering only slight damage from the graze.

You provoke an OA with your ranged powers, but only one. Grom hits with a 28 against AC, dealing 10 damage.

Her healing spell revitalises her, however, while Vasjra leaps across the room and sinks her claws... or fangs... or whatever into Grom! It does not manage to avoid with its huge body, drawing deep wounds... but still not bleeding!

Grom, for its part, seems refocussed by the threats and attacks!

"Puny INSECT," Grom roars. "I shall NOT suffer insults from mere FOOD." It lunges at Leif again, and this time the Bard's speed does not avail her! The gaping maw of Grom closes around Leif, capturing her between its teeth. She can feel one particular fang puncturing right through her, though her protective magic manages to prevent the worst, and Leif can feel the burning sensation of acid, and the lulling sensation that seems to inspire her to stop struggling.

She's in a very terrible position right now! To make matters worse, Grom renews his aggression, releasing a powerful pulse of energy as it gingerly slides out of the flaming area. Nur'agha and Vasjra manage to shrug off the strength of his psychic assault, but there's still the Bard to worry for!

Grom recharges gore. Grom attacks Leif and [b]CRITS with Gore! Leif takes 30 damage and is gored (save ends). For a description, see bottom.

Grom uses an Action Point! However, its overwhelming presence misses Vasjra and Nur'agha on a nat 1 and a 17 vs Will respectively.

It also revives its tentacle.

It is now Kale's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/Z5kWy9N.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|47/64+8 HP|8/9|Host of shields (+2 AC/Ref)
Nur'agha Var|57/66+8 HP|9/12|
Leif|38/58 HP|11/11|Gored (save ends)
Vasjra|52/52+4 HP|3/2|Feral state
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|119|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|25|Bloodied
Grom tentacle B|42|Bloodied, divine challenge
Grom tentacle C|50|Dead
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it. (Currently heeding Vasjra's command to depart.)
- While gored, a creature suffers the following:
• A creature is considered to occupy the same squares as Grom. Any area, burst or blast damage that damages Grom also damages the creature under gore. At the start of each of its turns, a creature affected by gore takes 10 damage, and Grom recovers for the same amount of damage.
• After the first failed save, the creature takes a -4 penalty to saves against this effect. After the second failed save, the damage increases to 15, but recovery does not increase.
• The creature is considered restrained, but cannot escape until it saves against goring. Once a creature saves, it may immediately make an Escape check using Athletics, and if it succeeds it is immediately pushed 3 from Grom.
• A creature can never die to any damage suffered as a result of this effect.

[Darth_Versity]

As Grom attacks Leif, Kale swings his weapon in a wide arc, cutting into the air as the beast suddenly appears before him.

Immediate Interrupt: Transposing LungeEncounter, Arcane, Teleportation, Weapon
Standard Action, Melee weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Intelligence vs. AC
Hit: 2[W] + Intelligence modifier damage, and you teleport the target into a space adjacent to you.
Aegis of Shielding: When you use your aegis of shielding immediate interrupt, you can use this power against the target as part of the interrupt, even if the target is beyond your reach.
Attack [roll0], Damage [roll1]
If it hits Grom is teleported just north of Kale, if it misses Groms damage is reduced by 6 and he takes 6 fire damage.

(I need to know if it hits before my next action)

[Servbot]

Kale's attempt at teleporting fails, his strike just not connecting with the beast.

You're off by a tiny bit. If you could raise your attack roll by just a bit...

[Darth_Versity]

Kale slashes at the tentacle in front of him before running around the corner while dodging a return swipe. Standing away from his enemies he lets Vaecaesin poke his head out of his backpack release a torrent of white hot flames.

Booming Blade against Tentacle 2 (Atk [roll0] vs AC, Dmg [roll1] thunder)
Move to E19 (provokes attack from tentacle which would trigger Nur's Divine challenge and 5 damage from my white lotus riposte if I hit)
Action Point: Flame Cyclone f20-H22Encounter, Arcane, Fire, Implement
Standard Action Close blast 3
Target: Each creature in blast
Attack: Intelligence vs. Reflex
Hit: 1d8 + Intelligence modifier + Strength modifier fire
damage.
Attack vs Tentacle 2 [roll2] vs Ref
Attack vs Grom [roll3] vs Ref
Damage [roll4] fire

Pretty sure the first attack hit, and the others didn't. Kale gets 2 temp HP from his gauntlets.

[Servbot]

Kale moves, but not after sending the tentacle slithering down the depths whence it came. When he's well-positioned, Kale's familiar breathes down fiery flames, scorching Grom with righteous fury! However, a small oversight also sets flame to Leif, who finds the scalding heat in concert with the corrosive acid and numbing fluid to be a very bad combination!

It does help her clear her mind a bit, however...

Grom looks rather wounded, but it's not down yet...

Tentacle dies, Grom cries (4 HP damage).

Flame Tornado hits Leif's Reflex with a 26, and Grom's Reflex with a 17 (yes, it is that low), damaging both for 13 fire damage! Leif also regains 7 HP as timely interference from the Fire Aegis reduces damage by 7.

Friendly DM reminder: gore means they occupy the same squares as Grom. I changed it that they will just be attacked by any blasts, areas and whatnot, but the OOC roll is a 26, sorry.

The tentacle tries to whip at Vasjra, but slinging itself around her leg and dragging her closer! The vampire couldn't escape, perhaps surprised by the tentacle's surprising reach.

Tentacle grabs Vasjra for 6 damage, Vasjra is grabbed and pulled 1.

Ehol, for its part, still tries its best to heed the command... but the southern exit is closed off by Grom and the party, and it seems hesitant to flee into the tunnel north.

It is now Nur'agha's turn!

MAP:
http://i.imgur.com/ZuSe9g1.jpg

{table=head]NAME|INIT
Vasjra|28
Grom|26
Kale|24
Grom tentacle A|21
Ehol|21
Nur'agha|16
Grom tentacle B|16
Grom tentacle C|11
Leif|6[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP|SURGES|STATUS AILMENTS
Kale|47/64+8 HP|8/9|Host of shields (+2 AC/Ref)
Nur'agha Var|57/66+8 HP|9/12|
Leif|32/58 HP|11/11|Gored (save ends)
Vasjra|50/52 HP|3/2|Feral state, grabbed
[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Ehol|2|Deafened[/table]

{table=head]NAME|HP LOST|STATUS AILMENTS
Grom|141|Fire Aegis
Grom tentacle A|25|Bloodied
Grom tentacle B|50|Dead
Grom tentacle C|50|Dead
[/table]

Notes:
- Tentacles are immune to forced movement effects.
- Ehol is not considered an ally, but it is also not considered an enemy. You may command Ehol by using a Minor action, and Ehol will follow your commands as long as it does not endanger it. While Ehol is deafened, you cannot command it. (Currently heeding Vasjra's command to depart.)
- While gored, a creature suffers the following:
• A creature is considered to occupy the same squares as Grom. At the start of each of its turns, a creature affected by gore takes 10 damage, and Grom recovers for the same amount of damage.
• After the first failed save, the creature takes a -4 penalty to saves against this effect. After the second failed save, the damage increases to 15, but recovery does not increase.
• The creature is considered restrained, but cannot escape until it saves against goring. Once a creature saves, it may immediately make an Escape check using Athletics, and if it succeeds it is immediately pushed 3 from Grom.
• A creature can never die to any damage suffered as a result of this effect.

[Leolo]

Nur'agha raises his shield, showing Grom the sign of his lord and pressing it against the demons's body. Red lines draw the divine symbol on him, trying to rip the flesh apart and free Leif.


Minor Action: Divine Mettle, Leif can make a saving throw for free.

I'll add the rest of my turn later, when I know if Leif is free

[Infernally Clay]

Leif could hear someone trying desperately to get her out, causing her to redouble her own efforts to escape.

Saving Throw: [roll0]

[Leolo]

A moment after Leif gets her freedom back the paladin swings his waraxe again, right over her head and into the flesh of the demon.

"I'm the servant of hell, i'm the horned knight. When you are back in the chaos you shall remember me. Now try to swallow this, beast."

He clearly is protecting Leif and is trying to block the attacks of the monster against her, challenging Grom.


Minor/Move action: divine challenge
Standard action: Fearsome smite
[roll0] vs AC
[roll1] damage, plus [roll2] radiant damage
and -3 to attacks UENT

[Infernally Clay]

"My demonic knight in shining armour," Leif smiled in thanks to Nur, "Now let's end this. Vasjra, you're up!"

Action!
Standard: Staggering Note

[roll0] vs Will, 7 damage. Push target three squares and an ally (Vasjra this time) may make a melee basic attack either before, during or after the push.
Grom will be pushed one square down and two left (so H18 goes to I16).

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Even in Vasjra's feral state, she heard Leif's words, and followed her instructions.

MBA - Vampire slam (can be substituted) [roll0] vs Ref
Damage - [roll1], this attack can push the thing as well, if you want clay, so I can push it one and you can push it one, if you want.

[Servbot]

The party's fierce attacks dig deep wounds in Grom's body, and it is reeling and staggering. It looks in seriously bad condition, and if this keeps up it will die!

Grom seems to realise this as well, as it releases its deafening shriek, momentarily disorienting the group as it begins a mad dash from the hole it emerged from! In passing, Nur'agha strikes at it hard, taking along chunks of flesh, though the others are less lucky. A few seconds later, Grom has disappeared through the tunnel, and you can hear a furious howling emerge from the hole.

Nur'agha strikes a CRIT with his OA, and I think the encounter has run its course. Grom has been soundly defeated and has retreated.

Everyone gains an AP.

Ehol is ducked in a corner, too afraid to look and deafened to hear, while the group finds their senses return to them shortly. The room is abandoned now, and an eerie sound emerges from the hole. It gapes and beckons... Or, the group could return whence they come, for they still have a mission to complete...

[Darth_Versity]

"No time for debate guys, I plan on killing that thing before it comes back to cause trouble. Anyone who agrees, follow me." and Kale and his Dragon descended into the darkness, the meager light from a sunrod their only guide.

[Infernally Clay]

"Right behind you! Leif said, quickly running to Ehol.

Carefully, she rested her hand on Ehol's shoulder as not to scare her. Then, with a series of oddly humorous actions, Leif tried to convey that she and her friends had forced Grom into a corner and were going to end him.

With that done, Leif follows quickly behind the rest and descends into the hole.

[Servbot]

Ehol remains behind, staring aghast (probably, the mask makes it impossible to see) as the group descends into darkness.

Assume the same minor rest as before: Recover 2 encounter powers, spend healing surges as desired. Vasjra's feral state ends for her.

The tunnel begins at an even decline, but gradually it becomes more and more steep. After a while, it takes some effort from each of the partymembers to not be dragged down by the steep descent, but it doesn't take long before they reach an incline. Again, it's rather steep. Too steep to just walk, and the group becomes forced to climb their way up, slowly but gradually. The sound has stopped by now, though they can hear the echo of... something... far off in the distance, bouncing on the walls.

It's still impossible to tell what at this point. Instead, the group continues their climb, until they finally reach the part where the incline is easy enough to traverse normally.

And then, they realise there is a fork in the road. Straight ahead, left or right. Which way? The sound appears to be coming from the right.

[Darth_Versity]

"Well if that sound is Grom then we should follow it. I doubt he'd have time to set up a diversion, so I suggest we go right. Anyone disagree?"

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
As Grom limps away down the tunnel, Vasjra turns to her companions, her hands and mouth covered in blood and her eyes as wild as the dogs that chased them into this cave. After a moment of her staring them down crouched in a ready-to-attack position, she seemed to calm down some and straighten up. She pulled a cloth from her pack and started cleaning off the majority of the blood from her hands, licking up some here and there that seems to heal up the minor scrapes she got in the fight. "I too think we should go after the monster and finish it off. I care not about other passer-by's, but now this thing has gotten on my nerves and needs to die. I will lead."

With that Vasjra starts down the tunnel. When they get to the fork in the road, Vasjra stops and hears the sound, but she also sniffs the air for a trail of blood that she knows the creature had to have left.

Stealth [roll0]
Perception for the sound, and the smell of blood(maybe a little bonus to the smell of blood because she is a vampire? :smallbiggrin:) [roll1]

[Servbot]

Though Vasjra manages to glide through the tunnels mostly unnoticed, it doesn't help much, considering her allies are with her and a lot more noisy than she is. Not that she's really decided a direction yet, but the group is content to follow her.

They're still standing at the fork, though. Vasjra's acute sense of smell is unfailing, and she can definitely smell that, despite the sound's origin, the trail of blood definitely leads northward.

There can be no doubt about this.

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra may have heard the sound from the southern tunnel, but she definitely smells Grom's blood trail to the north. "The sound came from the south, but the thing's blood has turned to the northern tunnel, come." With that, she is off again, in hunter mode, and can't wait to tear this thing apart.

Stealth, if you need it again, if not then defer to the 36 [roll0]
Perception when we come to another "choke point" in our search :smallsmile: [roll1]

[Servbot]

The group traverses the northern tunnel, led on by Vasjra's keen sense of smell. As they continue, Vasjra continues to clearly smell the trail of blood leading northward. Rather than descend, the group begins to climb, higher and higher, little by little... The group realises after some time, though, that they've been walking and running for quite some time now. Night's set in proper, and weariness is taking over.

They're still in the tunnel, which seems to continue on endlessly in a straight course. The smell of blood continues northward, even though there isn't a speck of blood anywhere.

After a while, the group finds a small hole in the tunnel. Peering through it, they can see a small cave, about 50ft in diameter, a perfect circle. There's a small hole in the centre, too small to allow anyone passage. One of the imps might be able to, though.

The group can still continue northward, or return south. The small cave leaves little to be explored aside from the small hole.

[Leolo]

"How is this possible? The demon isn't here..."


Nur'agha starts to search for tracks by himself and tries to find the escaping creature again, filled with a hate in his voice and his blood he doesn't understand.


1d20+10

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra, frustrated, looks around for clues as to the beast's actual whereabouts. "Maybe we should backtrack and go the other way. The demon might be smarter than I though and just flung his blood down this tunnel to trick me......this makes me very annoyed." And everyone knows what happens, to young recruits especially, when Vasjra gets annoyed.

Perception - [roll0]

If this turns nothing up, Vasjra will be going back where they came from, and turning down the other tunnel.

[Servbot]

Vasjra and Nur'agha set about searching the surrounding terrain. Nur'agha's search doesn't quite turn up much, and he just isn't too sure where to look. Vasjra's search equally doesn't turn up anything, except that she realises the blood trail she's been following... Isn't Grom's blood trail. There's the smell of blood, yes, but mixed with iron and steel.

Whatever was bloodied further down along, it was bloodied by the cold steel of a blade, and not a magical assault like they've unleashed on Grom.

[Leolo]

"We have lost him. We lost the demon!"
Nur'agha is frustrated and not really silent in his anger. Furiously he looks at the other group members, and it takes some time until he becomes calm again.

"I want to track him down again, and let this beast feel my axe again, spoil his blood over it's steel. Screw the quest, we can search for her later!"

His eyes are fiery red and it looks like Nur'agha wants to hurt someone for this failure, unleash his frustration and hate against the creature.

[Darth_Versity]

"Calm yourself. Rushing around in frustration will only lead to further problems. Now the beast must have taken another route, so we need to retrace our steps and investigate any forks in the tunnel."

He reaches out with his magical senses, trying to find any hint of magical energy in the area.

"A creature that large should leave obvious markings and may even have a distinct arcane signature. If we become desperate we could use a ritual to locate him, but I only have enough components for one casting. I was expecting to reach the next town before we needed to use it and did not wish to carry more than was needed."

Arcana check to detect magic [roll0]

I can detect any magical effect of lvl 14 or lower out to a range of 8 squares

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra sniffs the air, taking in the scent of blood. "I have been following the wrong blood. This blood smells metallic, more metallic than normal. As if the creature wounded was done so with cold steel, not the claws and magic that we posses. I think if we are to find this demon, we must go back to the fork in the road and take the other route, like Kale said. Come." And just as quick as before, Vasjra head back down to the fork. There, she uses her sense of smell to find a different trace of blood, one that might belong to Grom.

Perception [roll0]

Stealth [roll1]

[Leolo]

Nur'agha is still angry, and in his eyes is those fire that marks him, that defines him as a descendant of the nine hells.

This time i will search by myself.

he mumbles and tries to find the trail of the demon again, tries to find it's scent that creates such an instinctivly hate in him.

Perception: [roll0]

[Infernally Clay]

"No sense standing around picking our noses," Leif grinned, setting about helping look for Grom's trail from the fork.

Perception Check: [roll0]

[Servbot]

The group leaves the small cavern for what it is and begin the journey back. It is about as uneventful as was before, but when they reach the fork...

Ehol stands, surrounded by two dozen imps, waving as it sees you near.

"There they are, there they are!" the masked creature exults, and the imps surge forward as one!

Before any of the group can reach for their weapons, the imps have already reached Nur'agha and have... begun hoisting them on their arms... and parading him in circles around the rest of the group. Ehol eventually catches up.

"They saw you chased off Grom," Ehol begins. "The imps swear fealty to the strongest, and by their reckoning, you are stronger than Grom."

The imps dart around, eventually tiring of carrying Nur'agha and dropping him to the floor.

Your rolls turn up nothing, but you now have a small army of imps!

[Irish Musician]

Vasjra (http://iplay4e.appspot.com/characters/agdpcGxheTRlchQLEgtDaGFyYWN0ZXJWMhja4skHDA), Drow Vampire
Vasjra can't help but smile at the little following that Nur'agha has come across now. "Ehol, do you know where Grom went? We lost him in the tunnels and we want to finish him off for good. Do they know?" Vasjra finishes, point at the little imps.

[Servbot]

Ehol tilts its head to the side and rubs the side of its mask for a moment. Then, it shakes its head.

"Tunnels are a mystery to Ehol," it replies. "Only Grom has come here, and some of the imps."

So saying, it turns to the imps, uttering a few choice words in Abyssal. The imps respond in kind, and after a short forth and back, the imps disperse into the various directions.

"They'll look," Ehol explains. "Should come back. Ehol is not sure how long it shall take."

[Darth_Versity]

"Well we can't go anywhere while they're searching. Lets set up camp, we then consider our next move."