The Laws of Chaos, Chapter 1 - A Journey Begins

[BluesEclipse]

Xuan
You step off of the small ferry and onto a worn, but well-built wooden pier at the southern end of Thornwood. You can see the drawbridge just upriver, a short ways to the east, that serves as the primary southern entrance to the town. Walking down the pier, the other passengers seem to shy away from you, given your appearance - though nobody seems inclined to say anything about it, the best you can tell. At the end of the pier, you see a couple of merchants - one small stand dealing primarily in fishing gear, and a larger storefront offering a few things that might be more useful on a boat - coils of rope, sails, and the like. A ramshackle tavern sits nearby, the sign reading "The Drowned Rat", and you notice a couple of the passengers enter it - though most head down the street to the north, towards the town square, and a handful head down other streets leading to different parts of town.

Avor
You step past the northern gates of the small town of Thornwood, giving no real notice to the armed men standing guard on either side of the structure, and enter the town proper. To the west, you can see the large structure that serves as the town guard's main barracks and office, as well as the town's jail, a few streets down, while immediately to your east you can see the town stables as well as the Thornwood Inn, its sign swaying gently from the breeze and the door opened, the smell of stew and baking bread wafting from within. Down the main street, you can see the town square bustling with people. Behind you, you hear a guard call out, "Hold! What business does one of your ilk have here, goblin?"

Scarlet
You sit in the common room of the Dancing Dragon Tavern, the Thornwood town square visible through the building's windows and open door, people milling about or moving from stand to stand and store to store, merchants calling out about their various wares. The tavern has quite a few people in it - with more arriving from the ferry that just stopped at the town. You haven't heard anything of note regarding the odd behavior of the creatures around - though there's plenty of talk about it, it's just baseless speculation regarding why this is happening, with the popular guesses being the druid who lives nearby in the Halden Forest, the restless spirit of one of the wizards who's made the town their home in the past, or a new mage dwelling nearby who hasn't made their presence known yet. Your instructions had indicated that the Mayor would be able to meet with you later in the afternoon - so you've still got a couple of hours before you'd need to head towards the Mayor's office on Crafter's Row, in the eastern part of the town.

Xugb
As you clear the trees into the open area around Thornwood, you can see the town's walls rising there, a sturdy gate standing open right now to allow entrance. Two guards - you aren't sure whether they're human or half-elf - stand at either side of the gate, one of them watching the human that just passed warily while the other fixes his gaze on you. Past them to the south, you can see the town square bustling with people - though you know that the apothecary is in the eastern section of town, at the south end of Crafter's Row. Moving towards the gate, the guard whose gaze was locked upon you steps out, hand moving to his sheathed sword as he says, "Hold! What business does one of your ilk have here, goblin?"

Nadia
The caravan stops just in front of the Thornwood Drawbridge, the guards having directed you to leave your wagons there for the time being - until the head of your group can either obtain a location for a stand or storefront, or find someone willing to purchase the goods directly. Standard procedure in a smaller place such as this. A couple of the other merchants have made pitches to some of the wealthier travelers who've passed by, but none of them proved willing to purchase wagonloads of fine fabrics. As you wait, you hear the two guards speaking to one another - talking about the kobolds in the southern forest, and how they're growing more agitated due to the odd changes in the creatures of the woods. If they can't find a source, there's concern that the kobolds may attack the town in retaliation - Thornwood's reputation for being a retreat for mages makes them all to willing to believe someone there is responsible.

[Arcran]

As the guard addresses the traveler behind him, a thin frown crosses the face of the monk. One goblin? Since when did goblins ever travel alone? The fact that it was a lone goblin meant one of two things: either it was a scout and needed to be dealt with accordingly or, hopefully, it was a member of its species that was possessed of the cruelty and guile needed to survive without a horde of its kin at its back.

More than a little intrigued the monk turns around, leaning calmly against a building, confident in the fact that his clothes were as dull and ordinary as those everybody else wore and we wouldn't attract undue attention. He turns and he waits, intent on hearing the goblins response even as he considers stopping by the tavern for some bread and water. That was where the extraordinary tended to meet, no?

[Eshkigal]

Xuan tightens the heavy cloak he wore, cursing in a deep, rumbling croak in his throat at their early arrival into port. The captain had said that they would arrive hours from now, but the winds had changed suddenly, forcing the ship onwards faster than expected, leaving Xuan too little time to prepare his normal disguise, a gaudy jester's garb covered in bells and bright (and above all CONCEALING) wraps, a jester's mask and makeup helping his hands and face not stand out as much among the softskins. Instead, the short, coppery hided neraph was in a simple green tunic and pants beneath heavy scale mail, heavily adapted boots on his feet, admittedly thin enough to let him get a better feel of the land while hiding from less tolerant softskins, blades on his belt and scythe on his back. So noisy, but orderly...pfah. Bet none ever dealt with something less static than boiling water. Not like the Neraph. Neraph were made strong through the instability of Limbo, for there was no other choice! Grow lucky and strong or grow dead, that was the rule of home. Glancing about with slitted eyes, he looks at the tavern, trying to read its sign.
"T...th...dra? Ah, to the Eternal Pit with it."
In his years among the softskins, he had never quite picked up how to read their tongue, and Slaad and Neraph relied on oral tradition to carry their stories, for books were too easily lost to the landscape and words tended to shift in meaning constantly, but with strangely sensible pattern most of the time. It was too constant, too dull for him. So instead, he judges by the clientele. People getting off the boats mostly, probably little information he didn't already have. So, with that, he moves on from there, deeper into the town.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb sighed softly. He expected such treatment but that didn't make it any easier. He shifted slightly, then stopped. His cloak obscured his hands and their destination, the pouch on his belt. Best not give them anymore reason to cast doubt on my presence.

Cautiously, he angled his compact body so the fabric would fall off his shoulder without assistance. His arm and side now exposed, he reached into the pouch, retrieving a thick set of parchments, with the seals if Westhaven and the Herbalist society adorning the top. He presented the papers, documentation of his employer, his package, and its recipient and Writ of Entrance into Thornwood.

I am here on business, on behest of Herbalist Delena of Westhaven, to deliver a package to the herbalist of Thornwood. I am Xugb, but if you prefer, you may call me Xug. I seek entrance into the town of Thornwood to deliver my package. He spoke simple and plain, adding no tone of malice or scorn. He was here on business, nothing more. It did well to not stir up trouble before the locals had a chance to warm up to his green skin and short stature.

[Esprit15]

"I doubt the druid would do such a thing," is a common interjection when the accusation is lobbied towards the servant of nature. "It would disturb the peace that she works to maintain." It is ridiculous how frightened people can get of magic, just because they don't understand it.

Why did the masters choose her, anyways, as untrained as she was? The girl was a rather poor choice for this. Weak in combat, not very proficient in spellcasting... But that doesn't matter. Though perhaps she should try to find one of the axiomatic creatures? ...no, too dangerous to go alone. Maybe if she found a group, but she also did not want to make a poor impression of the Jade Phoenixes on the mayor... Or maybe someone already did the work for her? She gets up, looking around the tavern as she goes to the bartender. "Everyone is in such a fit about these creatures, recently. Do you know if anyone has actually captured one of them?"

[Regalus]

"Excuse me gentlemen," Nadia started as she strayed from her car briefly to approach the guards, "Pardon the interruption, but I've been hearing something rather queer about the beasts in the area. Might I ask what's been happening to the woods that has everyone so spooked?" she inquired curiously.

When she'd first heard word that their group would be making its way through Thornwood the scholar had be quite excited at the prospect; even if the hamlet was small in size it's reputation as a gathering place for retired mages preceded it. No doubt such a place would have all manners of tomes in its library that one might be hardpressed to find elsewhere; though the abundance of spell casters in the region all but ensured her that she'd be pressed for customers for her alchemical wares, so she'd have to rely on her other less profitable trades.

Of course such a quaint little venture was not enough for her mistress' disciple, so now her pleasant journey was overcast with the promise of an invasion no less; a threat that touched a bit too close to home for her to simply ignore much to her dismay.

[BluesEclipse]

Xuan
You make your way along the road, eventually stepping into the bustling town square, between a seamstress's shop and what looks to be a bowyer's shop. You see numerous stalls about - some selling small trinkets, cheap baubles and simple ornaments such as leather bracelets; others selling various foodstuffs ranging from simple snacks to fruits, vegetables and fish; and still others selling things like cloaks, robes and other garments. Around the edge of the town square, a variety of shops stand - in addition to the seamstress and the bowyer, you see a shop that seems to specialize in some kind of woodcraft, a blacksmith's shop, a leatherworker's, what appears to be a general store, and right at the edge of the square, where it turns into the southern part of the town's main road, you see an inn whose sign holds the symbol of a dragon standing on its hind legs, a glass raised in one of its claws, almost as if dancing merrily. You do notice quite a few guards about - more than one of them turning their attention towards you, though they seem to be more curious than concerned.

Xugb
The guard blinks for a moment before taking the papers from your hands, reading over them with a clear look of suspicion. After several moments, he thrusts them at your face roughly, and says, "Fine, then... your papers are in order. I will warn you, though - we've got enough trouble around here without your kind stirring up more problems." Once you take the papers, he steps back allowing you to pass. You notice that the man ahead of you seems to have paused for a moment, observing your confrontation - if you could call it that - with the guard. Still, as you step into the town, you see the stables to your left, followed by a building whose sign indicates it as the Thornwood Inn. To your right, a couple of storehouses sit, along with a small rest house for gate guards who are on breaks or off duty - and beyond that, you can see the imposing structure of the guard offices, barracks and jail.

Avor
You see the guard nearly smack the goblin in the face with his papers - it seems pretty clear that this particular guard has a fairly intense dislike for goblins, though he still manages to at least appear professional to an extent. The goblin steps past the gates, looking around himself, though you can't tell if he's noticed you watching him yet.

Scarlet
The response people give to your defense of the druid is simple - she's the only living caster in this area who could do something like this - and it's not as though she makes herself available to the town for anything. Who else would it be? Still, some of the people seem to consider your words. The barkeep - a stout half-elf who moves with fluid grace suggesting he might have once been a dancer or a monk - replies with a chuckle to your question, "No, we haven't actually captured any of them. Even the more docile ones haven't allowed themselves to be held in any kind of captivity. But... well, watch." He pulls out a small, rough bit of cheese - a remnant from one of the day's earlier meals - and sets it on the bar before making a brief chittering noise. After a moment, you hear a squeak in response, and a sleek rat with almost silver fur climbs up onto the bar and over towards it. You can immediately tell that the creature's movements are extremely precise. The rat looks at the barkeep, then looks curiously at you for a moment, before looking at the cheese and beginning to nibble at it. You watch for a few moments, before the rat finishes its meal and moves back off the bar, descending out of sight - and leaving a perfect, cube-shaped block of cheese behind. "He's one of the easier ones to get along with... but well, you can't say that's any kind of normal."

Nadia
"Yeh mean yeh haven't heard, girl?" one of the guards asks, surprised. "Dunno how yeh couldnt've - I mean, things like this just ain't normal!"
His partner nods, and continues, "Fire-spitting birds, monstrous spiders marching in formation, snakes whose venom can heal those bitten... almost nothing in those woods has been acting normal for weeks now! And that tree-hugger in the woods won't even show herself to talk to anyone about it, let alone help!"
The first guard continues, "The mayor's been lookin' fer folks who're willin' to help out... maybe yeh ought'a talk ta him about it if yeh want ta know more."

[Esprit15]

"Fascinating..." is all Scarlet can say at first. The word felt funny on her tongue, sounding more proper to a wizard. "So how long ago did this begin?" With all the blaming of the druid, has anyone actually attempted to contact her?

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb took note of the spying man's features but did not approach him. In his experience, when he drew attention, it was the bad kind. If the man wanted to start trouble, he didn't need to find it, the man would find him. The little goblin continued onward with a steady gait towards his destination on the south-side of town.

[Eshkigal]

Lack of coin stops Xuan from checking out the stalls, as he gazes about. Such a shame, for many things looked interesting, especially the food-while he missed Limbo, one thing Xuan readily admitted was that the food was routinely better than what chaos beast tended to taste like, and it was easy to tell which ones were delicious, which was just added bonus. The inn looked like a good spot to ask about, but the guards were the best option first. They likely dealt with the more hazardous beasts, and if this was truly signs of home bleeding over here, they could be the ones with the most details. With that, Xuan heads towards one of the Guard, the one who looks most curious, with gloved hand held high in customary softskin greeting.
"Ah, hello! My name Xuan. Heard about strange beasts in this land. Homeland has great many odd things roaming it, so I come here to be seeing if they are alike or not. Perhaps be finding cause and coin for it, da?"
His voice is, for what he is, surprisingly pleasant, not the croaking you'd expect from something so froglike, but smooth, if somewhat oddly accented.

[Arcran]

Papers? That was odd for a goblin, to say the least. That either meant he followed the laws set forth by somebody else and was a slave to the system or was smart enough to work within those rules.

Still, an odd goblin wasn't enough to hold the monk's interest for long, especially when that wasn't why he was in town. The tavern is always the place to go for tales and, sparing the odd goblin one last look, the monk sets out for the tavern.

[Regalus]

Nadia internally cringed as the first man all but butchered his native language; her travels having yet inured completely to the more...liberal speech most people commonly employed after having been raised by a linguist who fancied herself a poet. Still the young woman took it in stride it wasn't the worst she'd heard, and wouldn't be the last either. Of course the other guard's explanation certainly took her mind off the case of linguistic battery.

"Hmm...I may just do that," she mused aloud as she ruminated on what she'd been told, "In any case;l thank you for the time gentlemen, have pleasant day," she said politely in parting as she doubled back to the caravan's to see what the progress had been in regards to finding a spot to set up shop, hoping to set her affairs in order and perhaps excuse herself for a while for further investigation on this most curious of circumstances.

[BluesEclipse]

Scarlet
The bartender replies, "It's been a couple of months now... too long, if you ask me." He sighs, before saying, "Word is, though, the Mayor's sent word to every mage's guild and circle within 200 miles... I just hope that doesn't cause us more problems."

Xugb
You make your way through the town square, your smaller size an asset as you weave through the crowds towards the eastern end. However, barking and growling from a nearby alley draw your attention - and in the shadows, you see a dog snarling at you angrily. A few people back away from the area warily, and you notice a couple of the guards turning towards you, one moving towards you. His hand moves towards his blade, but you see that his attention is focused on the dog, rather than on yourself.

Xuan
The guard looks at you a bit oddly for a moment, but he seems to have an understanding expression cross his face as you speak. "Aye," he answers, "definitely some strange creatures afoot these days. None quite like yourself that I've seen, however. Still, you look like you'd be capable enough... the Mayor's the one you'd want to talk to about payment for finding what's causing these beasts to become what they are. He lives over by Crafter's Row, in the eastern end of town. Big, green house - shouldn't be hard to find."

Avor
You push open the door to the Thornwood Inn, and see a few patrons there, dotted around the room. A serving girl - elven, from the look of her - is carrying a couple of steaming mugs to one of the tables. The barkeep - another elf, oddly - scowls at you slightly as he notices your gaze on the girl, before saying, "Well, stranger, do you plan on blocking the door all day? Sit down, sit down."

Nadia
You get back to the carts, and a few minutes later the caravan master comes back as well, indicating that he's secured one of the stalls in the square to work from - but no permit to bring the carts in, so it'll be a matter of moving everything to the nearby storehouse by hand or by wheelbarrow. Fortunately, he found a couple of boys who were willing to help out for a few silver each, so it won't take long.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb raised his petite hand towards the apporaching guard. Stay your blade. Xugb locked eyes with the beast for a solid second, before dashing to the wall adjacent the beast, scrambling up the vertical surface with great speed. Once he reached the roof, he peered down. Is it I that agitate you, furred one?

He's trying to see if the dog pays attention to only him or not.

[Eshkigal]

"And, ah, what is word...nature? Nature of beasts. How different are they? Each...how you say...ah...unique? Da, this is word, unique, no two alike? Many like to each other? Figuring guards may know. Guards walk around, guards face dangerous beasts. Figuring may being able to figure out more from guards, if they being from home or not."
Xuan looks a bit melancholy at that, looking up at the guard with a sad plea on his face that passes quickly enough, replaced by a worn, weary, fake smile. One of the wizards in the area had to know how to get to Limbo. Someone here could help him get back to his clan. Thirty years was a long time to be alone, separated by race and nature.
"Been long time since been home. Would you be knowing this, or again, would Mayor know more?"

[Esprit15]

She gives a 'wrong person to say that to' look at the bartender. "Well if you don't want our help, maybe your problem will just sort itself out. Thank you for the info. Have a good day." Before another word can be uttered by the half-elf, she turns and leaves. Not surprising, the reaction, but still annoying. They ask for help, it is offered, and the people get mad because they don't like the source. It's irrational!

Perhaps just a walk through the market. Maybe something will catch her eye, maybe she'll overhear something. The sorcerer checks her belt and pack, making sure that if anyone was going to rob her, they would have to work for it. Thinking a moment, she also mumbles some words and makes a quick gesture of the hand as she gets closer to the market.
Cast Prestidigitation

[Arcran]

Avor nods at the barkeep, face taut. He didn't appreciate being treated as the other rifraff that stumbled into the bar but such treatment would be unavoidable. Elves as barkeeps and serving wenches was hardly a normal occurrence. Could they possibly be the cause of what he's here for?

"Tell me what is happening in the village," Avor says, putting a gold coin on the counter, hoping it was sufficient motivation to loosen the tongue of the barkeep. He knew enough to know "nothing" isn't the proper answer but specifics would help the monk begin his search.

[Regalus]

Pleased by the news, and knowing that she'd likely only slow done the process of moving things to the storeroom; Nadia let's the leader know that she'd heard a few concerning rumors about the local events that may influence sales and what path they should take when they decide to head out again. As it was the young woman was planning on trying to get some concrete information while the boys were busy setting up their wares in the store house and stashing the wagons, assuming they didn't need her for something more urgent of course.

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
The guard's hand remains on his blade, eyeing the creature warily, but before he can reply you're already climbing the wall. You can tell that the dog's gaze is locked entirely on you, even as you reach the rooftop, continuing to growl menacingly for a moment. Finally, the beast turns back into the shadows of the alleyway, departing.

Xuan
The guard gives a sympathetic smile, and answers, "Trying to get home is something I understand, traveler. Twelve years I traveled, trying to make my way back here after a mishap with a visiting sorcerer found me in Sigil... but my history isn't your concern, I suppose. As for these beasts... mostly it's just normal creatures - house pets, wild beasts in the woods, and the like - changing their behavior. Some become more malicious and aggressive, others more docile and helpful. In some of the cases, they're displaying unique powers - breathing fire, spitting acid, or the like. I don't really know much more myself - the Mayor'll be the one you'll need to talk to."

Scarlet
The bartender gives you a calm, even look in response, but you're gone before you can here his reply. As you enter the square and cast your spell, you hear an odd sound - as if the chiming of ethereal bells. Nobody else seems to have noticed it, though - they just go around their business, moving from shop to shop and stall to stall.

Avor
"I'm surprised word hasn't gotten out to nearby villages yet," the barkeep replies, "but something odd's been happening to the creatures around here. They're changing - almost as if they're being warped by some sort of magic, trying to change them into other beings. It's not much right now - most of it is just personality and appearance, and the worst I've seen is a cat who was coughing up acidic hairballs. But it's not natural - and there's no rhyme or reason to it, either. Some things are changing, others aren't, and the things that do change aren't showing the same effects between them either." Another customer calls out for a refill of his drink, and the barkeep fills a mug of mead and takes it over to the customer before returning. "The Mayor's working on the matter - he's reached out to most of the mage's guilds that operate within the area. The College of the Arcane, the Jade Phoenix Order, the Seekers of the Sapphire Eidolon... if you can name them and they have any presence in the country, he's sent out for help from them. As far as I know, none of them have arrived yet, though. He's also looking for people who can handle themselves and are interested in earning some extra coin - probably wants to send a team down into the Mage's Mausoleum in order to see if there's something there that's causing this. You might want to go talk to him - he lives over at the east end of town, just past Crafter's Row."

Nadia
The caravan master quickly agrees that you should look into this further, and sends you off with instructions to talk to the Mayor if possible and see if there's anything that could pose a problem for the group.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Perched with his bony fingers gripping the side tightly. Guard. How often do the domestic beasts offer such ... hostility? Xugb quickly scrambled down the side of the building, eyeing the alleyway warily. Or is it outsiders they fear?

[Esprit15]

The sound following right after her spell, it was almost as if it were a side effect of the spell. Odd, that's never happened before. She keeps the thought in the back of her mind, in case it would later become relevant.

She browses wares at the market, asking merchants who appear to have traveled here if they encountered any troubles with the local wildlife, and local merchants what they have heard. Plus, you never know, something in the market might catch the eye.
Gather Information: [roll0]

[Eshkigal]

"Ah, I see. I will be seeing may-wait."
The neraph's eyes shoot open, and he grabs the guard's shoulders while talking louder than he probably should.
"You are knowing sorceror who can get to Sigil?! Hahaha!"
Xuan's grin practically splits his face, as he stares at his first lead in about thirty years.
"Thirty years! Thirty years of static and you are knowing someone who can get me next door! You are knowing someone who can at least get me closer than been in thirty years! By the Roiling Plateaus, what is sorceror's name?"

[Regalus]

With her affairs set in order Nadia heads into town with her eyes peeled for anything unusual for the mage-filled hamelet; asking around foe the major's whereabouts in hopes of inquiring further on the series of unusual circumstances the town was experiencing.

[Arcran]

Throughout the bartender's speech Avor simply nods, doing his best to show as little emotion as possible. It was what he had heard before, simply in far greater depth and detail. The fact that nobody had come to aid in the defense of the town was odd, to say the least. Even if they were simply driven by profit they could charge any amount in a situation where people are so desperate.

Without saying a word Avor turns to leave, giving the bartender a short bow and leaving the gold piece on the counter. The monk leaves the bar and exits to the streets outside, doing his best to remain as nondescript as possible as he weaves among the denizens of the town on his way to the mayor's.

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
The guard eyes you for a moment before saying, "It wasn't fear... I've worked with animals, and that one was angry, not afraid. Not sure if he doesn't take well to your folk, or if it's one of those changed creatures that's been popping up every now and then..."

Scarlet
You don't notice anything particular in the market, but you're able to pick up a decent bit of information. It's a bit difficult at first, since the same ethereal bells seem to sound whenever you speak - proving a bit distracting for those you're speaking with, at first - but it quickly becomes a novelty for those merchants who you speak with, and gets you more information than you might otherwise. You learn that there have been more than one instance of attacks from the southern road - entire caravans being assaulted by otherwise normal creatures that seem to be taking on unusual qualities. One well-traveled merchant is fairly certain the creatures were demonic, commenting that they seemed similar to summoned beasts he's seen before - and when you think back on it, that rat you saw in the tavern certainly had an otherworldly quality to it. Aside from that, you don't really learn more - except that aside from a couple of isolated incidents of single creatures attacking, nothing much has happened along the northern roads.

Xuan
The guard replies, "He went by the name of Malakir, actually. I couldn't tell you where he is now, though - he brought me back here, but then went off on his own to do Pelor knows what. If you see him, though, let him know that Riven Wallace sent you, and he should help you out."

Nadia
You wander about a bit, learning that there have been a few attacks by creatures who show some unusual characteristics - a few people seem to think it might be summoning of some sort that's causing this, others think a new mage has come to the area yet hasn't told anyone. Most people still direct you to the Mayor, since he knows the most about the situation. They're all to happy to point you towards his house on the eastern end of town, just past Crafter's Row.

Avor
You notice as you bow that the gold piece is missing - though you can't say at all when the bartender took it, despite having been paying attention the entire time. Still, you leave the bar without issue, and make your way through the streets, towards the eastern end of town.

[MesiDoomstalker]

I heard tell of such beasts, but I assumed it was the work of the Mill. Does no one know of why the beasts are angered, or from where they come? Xugb scratched his small chin as he pondered.

[Esprit15]

Curious. So that's orderly and demonic creatures appearing... Perhaps some planar magic of sorts?

Out of boredom, the sorceress makes her way to the meeting area, deciding that being early was better than being on time.

[Eshkigal]

Xuan laughs again, grinning happily.
"Name good, name good! Best lead I had in years! Danke, Comrade Riven!"
He claps the guard on the back.
"Would buy rounds of drink if not on last money! Maybe after job, eh? Owe you greatly. Will find cause of animals then, Comrade Riven!"
In happier spirits than he had been in a long time, Xuan heads down the street towards the Mayor's house.

[Arcran]

Avor continues on his way towards the mayor's, doing his best to be as nondescript as possible.

[Regalus]

With more pieces to this puzzle the she had before, Nadia happily makes her way towards the Mayor's office after politely thanking the people who had spoken to her. As she makes her trek, the young alchemist keeps an eye out for what the vendors through Crafter's row were peddling to get a feel for what the local market and competition was like.

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
The guard shrugs, and replies, "Nobody's sure where they're from. The Mayor's been looking into it, and is looking for people willing to help find the cause - you may want to talk to him. He lives down past Crafter's Row, in the east end of town." With that, he turns and heads back to his post near the edge of the square.

I'm going to wait for Mesi to catch up, so that I can finally pull this motley crew together.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb's large ears twitched. Well, I am in luck. Crafter's Row is my destination. I shall pay the Mayor a visit after I've concluded my business. Xugb bowed to the guard and headed towards Crafter Row.

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
You make your way to Crafter's Row, moving past a couple of notable shops - a woodcrafter who specializes in making ornate furniture, an ironwrought who makes fencing and decorative signposts, a glassblower, and a leatherworker specializing in high-end goods - before you finally reach the Alchemist's shop, Marcus's Mixery. The store is somewhat small, but you can see glass-enclosed shelves along the walls, stocked with various alchemical creations.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb nodded to himself as he reached for the door handle pushing it open gently. As he walked in he held his breath. He knew alchemist worked with all manners of aromatic herbs and they tended to offend his more sensitive goblin nose. He cleared his throat and spoke aloud "Hello? Delivery for Marcus the Apocathary."

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
As you enter the shop, you notice that the odor is surprisingly mild - still present, but not enough so to be uncomfortable or distracting in any way. A young man sits at the counter, feeding small slivers of what appears to be moonstone into a small grinder in order to powder them. He looks up as you enter, and when you state that you're there for the delivery, he nods and replies, "Ah - Master Marcus has been expecting that package to arrive soon. He's currently working on something rather delicate, but I can take that now."

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb walked up to the counter, pulling out the package and placing it on the counter by reaching up. He also placed a piece of parchment as well. Of course. If you'd be so kind to sign, accepting the parcel on the behalf of Marcus.

[BluesEclipse]

Xugb
The young man nods, quickly taking the form and signing it, before handing it back to you and taking the parcel. "Thank you... if you need anything, let me know. Master Marcus has a rather potent formula for alchemist's fire - it tends to pack more punch than what you'd find normally."

[MesiDoomstalker]

Thank you, but I have no need. Patting the maul on his back. With a slight bow, Xugb left the shop. He looked around Crafters Row for the mayor's office. It shouldn't be too hard to find.

[BluesEclipse]

Scarlet
You find the Mayor's home without much trouble - a wooden house painted a light green, with a darker green roofing. It sits within a large, well-cared for yard outlined by an ornate iron fencing consisting of poles of metal that spiral and weave around one another - certainly less functional than aesthetic. A guard stands to either side of a large gate that currently stands open, and you approach one of them, asking in your chime-echoed voice for the Mayor and displaying your credentials. The guard turns and leaves, disappearing into the home for a moment, during which time a tanned man with dark hair and piercing eyes approaches the gate as well. Before you can question him, the guard comes back out followed by a rather elegantly-dressed man of middle age, his sandy-blonde hair shining slightly in the sun and framing what can only be described as a handsome face. He offers a relieved smile and says, "Ah... so you must be the envoy from the Jade Phoenix Order! I'm glad you were able to respond to my request." He then turns towards the other man and says, "I'm not certain if you're a companion of hers or not... but if you're willing to help with our village's issues, it would be most appreciated."

Avor
You work your way through the streets, finding the Mayor's home quickly - it's not particularly expansive, but large in comparison to other homes in the village. The large yard is well-kept, though the ornate fencing surrounding it doesn't seem like a particularly effective design. A guard stands to one side of the gate, and observes you for a moment while you in turn take note of the young woman standing there as if waiting for something. Dressed in what you can best guess is some sort of mage's garb, the woman's long silvery hair falls down to the middle of her back, and her azure eyes carry a sense of purpose. You don't get the chance to speak with her before your attention is drawn to the house's door - another guard comes out, leading a man who, based on his dress, is either wealthy, influential or both. His grey eyes hold an expression of relief as he approaches the woman and says to her, says, "Ah... so you must be the envoy from the Jade Phoenix Order! I'm glad you were able to respond to my request." He then turns towards you and says, "I'm not certain if you're a companion of hers or not... but if you're willing to help with our village's issues, it would be most appreciated."

Scarlet, Avor
One of the guards calls the man's attention briefly, directing it to two of the side streets within view. At the corner of one, a goblin with deep green skin showing from beneath a worn cloak watches, while at the other, a dark-skinned woman stands a short distance in front of... you aren't entirely sure what the frog-like creature is. The Mayor doesn't seem to pay it much mind, though - instead calling out to the goblin, "If you're here to offer aid in solving the problems plaguing my town, by all means, join us," before turning towards the other two and adding, "You two, as well!" The three pause for a moment before approaching from their different directions.

Nadia
You make your way through the streets with little worry, taking note of a few shops that you find on Crafter's Row as you pass it. You find the Mayor's house, taking note of two humans who seem to be waiting for the Mayor - one a woman with silver hair, dressed similarly to a group of mages you recall seeing in your travels, the other a dark-haired man garbed as a monk. A guard leads a well-dressed man from the home to speak with them, but your attention is drawn by footsteps behind you - a glance back reveals a frog-like creature that you remember hearing about in your time with the Silver Wings. A nephalim? No, but close to that - you recall that they're supposedly from Limbo. You've never seen one before, though. Before you can address him, the well-dressed man calls towards someone elsewhere, "If you're here to offer aid in solving the problems plaguing my town, by all means, join us," before turning towards you and adding, "You two, as well!" After a moment, you make your way towards the others, noticing a goblin approaching from the other path - and that the Limbo-dweller is following behind you.

Xuan
You make your way through the town with little trouble, quite pleased with your possible lead. Even if you learn nothing else, it's a start, no? But for now, other matters have your attention - among them, the large, green house fenced behind a thicket of spiralling, braided iron. You see two humans standing near the opening in the iron boundary, one of the guards leading another, well-dressed human to speak with them. Just ahead of you at the street corner, a dark-skinned human woman watches for a moment, before glancing back at you. Before you can say anything to her, though, your attention is turned back towards the house and the group in front of it, as the well-dressed human calls towards another street, "If you're here to offer aid in solving the problems plaguing my town, by all means, join us!" He then turns towards you and the human in front of you and says, "You two, as well!" After a moment, the human woman makes her way forward and you follow, taking note of a goblin who moves from another direction to join this unusual gathering.

Xugb
You look around, not finding the Mayor's house anywhere on Crafter's Row. After a couple of minutes of searching, though, a helpful guard directs you down one of the streets leading further east, and you come across a rather large house with a well-kept yard, within an ornate iron fencing that seems more decorative than useful. A well-dressed man - half-elf, if you had to guess - with dusty blonde hair stands just inside the gates, speaking with a human woman with silver-white hair and a tall, dark-haired human man. Two guards stand nearby, and one sees you before saying something to the blonde. The blonde then turns to you, and says, "If you're here to offer aid in solving the problems plaguing my town, by all means, join us. You two, as well!" The last is addressed to someone else, clearly, as he turns in another direction. Following his gaze, you see another human woman, with darker skin than either of the other two, along with... well, you aren't entirely certain what the last one is, but it looks like some sort of humanoid frog.

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb strode forward slowly, taking his time to observe those who had gathered. A few humans made sense. Their kind were nearly as progressive with their procreation as his kin, especially in towns such as this. However, the dark skin was different. She must be a traveler, that skin tone was unknown to the Goblin. He did not know humans came in so many colors. The Frog was interesting in of itself. The one benefit of his size is he was easily unnoticed and hoped that it allowed him to arrive last without turning heads. Then again, he turned heads everywhere he went regardless.

[Arcran]

Avor looks around at those that had arrived at the mayor's, a thin frown. Were they all intending to help? He had expected to be alone, not plagued with a team of others that would, in all likeliness, just slow him down. At least the goblin from earlier was here. Perhaps he was ambitious and intelligent enough to see Avor's motives and perhaps join. With a population as large as they have, goblins would be a good place to begin to look for those wishing to better themselves.

"I am not a companion of the mage," Avor states, seeing little reason to lie here. "Simply a traveler seeking to help those in need," Avor states, seeing a bit more of a need to lie about that. For some reason, people were more generous with help freely given than help extorted from them. He had seen it himself a thousand times; bandits demanding "protection" from the village caused everybody to hide their coffers but a kind soul who took care of said bandits found themselves showered in gifts.

"Please, if you will. Would you tell m-us" Avor says, quickly correcting himself, "what you know of the issues plaguing the village?"

[Esprit15]

Walking towards the gate, Scarlet pays only passing attention to the other humans heading towards the manor. It would make sense: other mages were called, and it is likely that non-magical orders received word as well.

"Yes, I am. Scarlet Aegle, of the Jade Phoenix Order." As more people arrive, she notices that not everyone here was human. That was a bit more interesting. A goblin, but who carried himself differently than other goblins, and a... man-frog-thing. Best not to refer to him as such, could be bad. "I've had asked around town if anyone had a clue what was going on, but it is nearly impossible to sift through the rumors, fear and... certain prejudice." The last bit is said with a degree of frustration. "But perhaps you know more. I do have some ideas of my own."

[Eshkigal]

"Da, comrade!"
Xuan moves faster towards the man, used to many more hues of skin than white and brown. Hells, he has more on his back than was demonstrated here to be too curious, especially with his mind elsewhere, with thoughts of finding the sorceror and memories of the world he lost in his head. So close now, so close!
"Am Xuan of Hanging Cliffs. Am hearing of strange beasts, and curious if we share home."
He finally pulls back his hood, revealing the strange, calloused skin of his people, hairless and with ridges across his brow and scalp. A grin of strange teeth, somewhat sharp in appearance, adorns the face.
"Telling us more of beasts, da?"

[Regalus]

Nadia's brow arches at the sight of not only a goblin joining the gathering, but an honest to gods nephalim as well. Though the knowledge that it apparently wasn't directly tied to this event ameliorated her some; if Limbo were bleeding into the material plane they'd all have a lot more to worry about than a few queer animals.

WIth the others already requesting information, the journeywoman quietly joins the group; more than a little eager to find out what was amiss with the village, hoping if her efforts might ensure that her caravan wouldn't get mauled on their way out of town.

[BluesEclipse]

The man nods, and says, "Yes... let us discuss this inside, though. Come, come!" With that, he leads you all into the home, and into a sitting room not far from the entrance. As you all position yourselves throughout the room, he says, "Allow me to introduce myself before we begin... I am Halden Bandel, Mayor of Thornwood. I do thank you all for coming to our aid... while I'd initially hoped that this could be resolved quickly, that's not the case.

Now, the issue we're experiencing with these creatures has been ongoing for a couple of months now. Initially, it was just a couple of isolated attacks from creatures that are normally rather docile - owls and other birds aggressively attacking caravans, horses turning on their handlers, and the like. We then started seeing the opposite as well - snakes, rats, and other creatures that are normally wary of people or likely to attack, but instead are becoming docile, friendly... even helpful. Over time, we've seen more and more creatures acting unusually - and some of them have started exhibiting truly unusual traits. Wolves with a green mist coming from their mouths that eats at the air around them, snakes whose fangs flash with lightning, birds whose talons flicker with flames. I fear that if it isn't stopped, it won't be safe to enter or leave Thornwood.

What's more, we're starting to see the same changes occur for creatures within the village - loyal pets turning on their masters, or common pests suddenly becoming helpful. It makes no sense whatsoever. Worse, though, is the fact that Satharathina is nowhere to be found - she's the druid who tends to the forests. She's always been willing to meet with us before, and aid us... but now, her glade is entirely closed off. The Kilik tribe is growing upset with the situation as well, and they've never been the most patient. If they lash out at us because of all this... the last thing we need is to be attacked during all this. But the guards aren't suited for handling a situation like this - Lieutenant Wallace is about the only one who'd have enough experience with this kind of strangeness, and even he doesn't know what's going on here." The man sighs, before looking at you all and saying, "I fear that our village may not be able to survive if we can't find a solution to this... please, will you help us?"

[Esprit15]

"Well, I was sent to assist however I can, so it isn't exactly possible for me to say no. That being said, of course I will help. The more I hear about this, the moe interesting it sounds."

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb, having not taken a seat and instead standing next to a side table, shifts forward to make himself known. I will assist you, Mayor Bandel. It would be my honor and privilege. The goblin makes a short, curt bow before continuing. If I may, do you know where and who the Druid was last seen by? Or where the first sightings of strange animals was? The beginning is the best place to start.

[Eshkigal]

"Riven Wallace? Da, talked with him, he said much the same about beasts. Experience because he had been in Sigil, da?"
He nods. Didn't sound like home yet, but it was still important to look into. Coin could help him find Malakir after.
"So, primal energies are extent of mutation? No deformities? Then not from home, at least, but makes easier to figure from there. Also means more static, but that neither here or there."

[Regalus]

"It would be wrong not to sir," Nadia quipped knowing she'd just stumbled into exactly the sort of affair her mentor had hoped for, "Can you tell us how to get to her home, or the places she usually worked at in the forest? If somethings happened it may be best to verify the area for possible leads,"

[Arcran]

Avor simply nods, arms folded in front of him, not particularly feeling the need to vocalize that he too would help the village. The rest seemed willing and even eager to help, something that makes Avor wonder exactly what their angle was. Gold? Misguided morals? Loyalty to the village? Whatever it was, watching this play out would be interesting.

[BluesEclipse]

Mayor Bandel sighs, and replies, "To my knowledge, I'm the last one to have spoken with her - this was more than two months ago. Her glade is just west of town, but as I said, it's completely blocked off now - whether Satharathina did this because she's somehow involved in what happened, or to shield her glade from whatever's causing this, I don't know. It may be that whatever's caused this has sealed the glade off to prevent her from helping us... but again, I don't know. As far as when this first started, it was about two months ago - as far as we know. It started initially with attacks from normally docile creatures, as I mentioned." He then nods at Xuan, and continues, "No, no physical deformities - the most we've seen is creatures looking sleeker and more orderly, or appearing more feral and uncontrolled... more sinister, or more peaceful. And unfortunately, Lieutenant Wallace's experiences in Sigil haven't shed any light on this subject. This is why I've been reaching out to mage's guilds and orders, to temples and churches, as well as putting out a request for any mercenaries who have experience with magic or supernatural occurences - I'm hoping to find someone who can understand what's going on and put a stop to it before things get worse."

[Eshkigal]

"So no homeland beasts. No Unfinished. Is good, but...is pity. Though giving Xuan idea. And Satha, you knowing her. How often would she be calling animals? Summon...summon like yours, but different? Unfinished...unfinished dog, for example. Is like dog, but not yet done, still feral, still trying to figuring out what exactly is dog. Still not quite...dog, but at the same time dog. She ever calling things like that? Or seeing what happens when unfinished take mate with finished?"

[MesiDoomstalker]

Unfinished... Spindly green fingers tapped on a lighter green chin as Xugb delved into thought.

[roll0]

[Esprit15]

"Hm... Did anything significant happen around two months ago, that you know of? What were you discussing with the druid during that last meeting?"

[Arcran]

"What exactly do you mean by 'blocked off?'" Avor asks, looking at the mayor. Creatures that were normally dangerous were becoming helpful, while safe creatures were becoming dangerous? In Avor's opinion, such a thing would be a blessing. Creatures that are typical antagonistic are stronger than those that are typically passive. The village could easily trade guard dogs for wolves and housecats for cougars if they had the strength to accept the change.

[Regalus]

Nadia listened quietly, not having much to add to the current round of questions; instead keeping note of all the details being brought forth over the course of the exchange for future reference.

[BluesEclipse]

"I... don't think so. I only ever saw Satharathina use summoning magic a couple of times, but when she did she was just summoning normal creatures. Nothing like these... unfinished you mention. But these creatures can't be summoned - we've seen these changes occur in some cases to creatures that have been pets to people within the village for longer than this has been going on." The mayor thinks for a moment, before continuing, "As for my last discussion with Satharathina... it was simply discussing the possibility of clearing some of the nearby trees away to expand the town further. We've always tried to discuss things with her in order to ensure good relations between her and the town. And when I say that her grove was blocked off... it's like the trees themselves grew into a solid wall around it. Not even enough of an opening for an animal to get through. Even trying to climb above got no results, as the branches above seem to have woven themselves together as well, from what I've been told."

Xugb
When Xuan mentions 'unfinished', you aren't sure what he's talking about - until he mentions summons in relation to it. Then you remember, some races native to the outer planes - specifically Limbo - often use the term 'unfinished' to refer to creatures of chaos, normal beings infused with that essence.

[Arcran]

Avor nods, not entirely convinced that he wouldn't be able to work his way inside the grove.

"What manner of beasts guard the grove? Is it simply the trees growing around it or is there something more?"

[MesiDoomstalker]

Do you mean beings infused with Primordial Chaos? If these are Unfinished, beings of Chaos, then the others must be beings of Order, infused with Pure Law. Strange. Something must be channeling these forces from the Outer Planes. Such creatures do not simply appear.

[Esprit15]

"I've heard mention of demonic-looking creatures as well from a few vendors. Has anyone looked from above the grove?" the sorceress asks.

[Eshkigal]

Xuan nods at that.
"Da, homeland! But he just saying that this is not case, so there is issue in theory. Is happening to random animals in town. But what are you knowing about how getting here? Xuan fell into sinkhole in homeland, end up in cage with big cat. And how people looking from above grove? They calling help from casters, that imply lack. Though...hm. How tall is wall, and how are you feeling about heights, little green ally?"
Xuan pauses to think of a question.
"Needing coin to find homeland, so being blunt: how much is pay?"

[MesiDoomstalker]

Since I was a welp, my home resided in the canopy of Bristlewood Forest. Niether tree nor height scare I.

[Eshkigal]

"Excellent, then we find tall, thinner tree to bring, and having you look above wall to ensuring area not full of wolves and such beyond wall when going in. Sounding agreeable to you?"

[MesiDoomstalker]

Cocking one eyebrow, Xugb simply nodded.

[BluesEclipse]

"We haven't seen any creatures guarding the grove, no. It's just the trees," Mayor Bandel answers Avor first, "woven together into a solid dome. We've had people scale the trees to try and access it from above - but the trees themselves seem to repel people trying to scale them... the druid's magic has given them enough semblance of thought to be able to try and ward off intruders." He then turns to Xuan and says, "As to how it is that they've gotten here... unless someone has been replacing the pets and local fauna, these creatures were born around here and have only been transformed recently."

At the question of pay, he nods and says, "I completely understand the need for recompense - I wouldn't ask you to do this for free. I can offer a total of 1000 gold for this - you'd have to divide it between yourselves, of course."

[Esprit15]

"That ought to be fine, just fine. If there will be nothing else, a small map of the local area would be most helpful, so that we don't get lost. Do any of you know of anything we might need? I suppose an idea of where to start would be nice too, now that I think of it."

[Arcran]

Avor nods, still somewhat perplexed. How were they supposed to work their way in? He could try to force his way in, but Avor felt that would be met with some resistance.

"There's no point in standing around. I intend to inspect the grove with my own eyes; those that wish can follow," Avor states, beginning to head towards the door, although he walks slow enough that the others can easily catch up. He felt a giant, sealed off glade would be rather hard to miss.

[MesiDoomstalker]

I encountered one of the Unfinished earlier. It seemed to be particularly unnerved by my presence. I will be trying to locate another and see if the reaction is the same. Some assistance would be welcome. The Goblin followed the human out, though was clearly not wishing to follow him beyond the door.

[Eshkigal]

Xuan shakes his head a bit at that.
"Not thing put on already around creatures. Mayor, having deal!"
He gets up, and as he moves to head out pats the girls on the shoulder.
"Both likin magic, da? At least one should investigate beasties with Xugb, Xuan will help impatient one try and figure way through."
With that, he heads out after Avor, putting the hood back up. When he meets up, he nods to Avor.
"Comrade. Green one is investigating the beasts to start. Other two split between groups when decided."

[Esprit15]

"I can go with you two," Scarlet says. "I'm curious about this wall." She stretches, thin, silvery wings making themselves visible from underneath her hair, briefly before following.

[Regalus]

"It would appear that you and I will be tasked with finding another sample of these creatures," she said as she eyed the smaller warrior, trying to keep her reservations to herself, "Though I confess, while my proficiency do include mystic arts; we would do well to determine how best to find one another out there, lest one of us come across trouble or something of import and have no way to find aid in time,"

"In all honesty given the unknown nature of the threat presented to us between this contamination and the local kobolds it may be best we travel as one group. We may not cover as much ground, but given the apperant diversity between us all we would atleast be assured to have some means of facing any obstacles we may come across," Nadia suggested, not wanting to accidentally stumble across a murder of fiendish dire crows on her lonesome or some other all too troublesome beast without proper reinforcements.

[Eshkigal]

As the mostly quiet Nadia speaks up, Xuan smiles and nods, waving to them to bring them over.
"Then come, come! We venture into the wilds, so we see them in their truthful state! Plenty to learn along the way."

[BluesEclipse]

The mayor nods at Scarlet's request, and picks up a rolled parchment from a desk in the corner. "This is a map of the general area - it does have the grove marked on it, along with the location of the caverns that the Kilik dwell in. I hope you can resolve this..."

The mayor leads you back out of the building, before returning to his own work.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa167/BluesEclipse/ThornwoodAreaMap_zpsa236c580.png

1 - Crafter's Row
2 - Town Square
3 - Mayor's House
4 - Thornwood Cemetery
5 - Mage's Mausoleum
6 - Satharathina's Grove
7 - Kilik Warrens

So... who's going where and doing what?

[Eshkigal]

After finding out where to go, Xuan heads towards the Glade with whoever else is going, possibly sharing some carnival stories if anyone cared to listen. Starting with a tale of drunken brawling, a tall tale concerning a lost elephant to guards, and the virtues of both comic appearance for distraction and intimidation in a brawl.

[Esprit15]

Scarlet follows the monk to the druid's grove, curious about the wall of trees.

[MesiDoomstalker]

The little goblin followed dutifully behind the 2 Humans.

[Regalus]

Nadia followed suite, asking for everyone's names as proper introductions were exchanged; before exchanging a few of her own tales from traveling much of the land with her teach, and since becoming a journeywoman as well.

[Arcran]

Avor makes his way towards the druid's clearing, ignoring any who choose to travel with him.

[BluesEclipse]

Your group makes its way through the streets of Thornwood Village, Xuan's tales of his life in the circus and Nadia's stories of her own travels filling the time it takes you to pass through the northern gates of the town and begin making your way through the forest proper. As you begin moving through the forest, the sun's light dims to scattered rays making their way through the canopies above. Fallen twigs occasionally crack beneath your feet as you move westwards, making your way towards the general area of the druid's grove.

I require Spot and Listen checks, peoples.

[BluesEclipse]

You continue your travels, the forest growing denser as you move westward. Though you've not yet seen any signs of the druid's grove, things at least have been relatively quiet. A long-fallen tree sits on the ground, one end of it resting against another tree that is growing up from the ground, but nothing else in the area seems notable as a landmark.

As you draw even with the fallen log, you notice a flicker of movement to your right - a trio of silvery creatures moving towards you, wings spread as they glide silently in your direction.

Please place yourselves in the lighter green area of this map (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1I8myU4Dy0wGHOHzbOJ9jArgzIBEgGEIay7XlsmZIhRk/edit?usp=sharing) so that I can identify where you are. For reference - the darker green are trees, extending upwards. These will provide Concealment. The brown objects are a stump (the small one) and a fallen tree(the large one), that will provide Cover.

[Eshkigal]

"-and that is why there are rumors of ghost owlbear in Northlands still."
Compared to the shifting forms of Limbo, reading the landscape here was painfully easy at times due to how damn static the world was. However, that no one else saw the silver beasts was somewhat alarming in its own right, even as his hands drift towards his throwing axes, wanting to save the annulats in case they dove behind cover. As they approach, he mutters loud enough for the group to hopefully hear, but not give them away.
"Three silver bird from North, move with intent. Be wary."

[roll0] INITIATIVE

(HP: 15; AC 17; Fort 5; Ref 1; Will 0; TAB 5. Delay action until these birds get closer)

[MesiDoomstalker]

Xugb's eyes dilate slightly, as he reaches for his warhammer. He nods silently as he readies himself.

[Esprit15]

Scarlet grabs for her axe, looking for the threat.
HP: 10
AC: 13
TAB: 1
Weapon: 1d8+1, x3/20
Initiative: [roll0]

[Regalus]

Nadia swears, getting into position behind her more well armored companions and readied her sling; all in preparation of a possible conflict, should their guests not be friendly envoys.


Move Action: Syllable of ENthropy (Reversed); DC 14 each
*Nadia: [roll0]. on a success gain [roll1] Temp HP
*Scarlet: [roll2]. on a success gain [roll3] Temp HP

HP:7; AC: 16; Initiative: [roll4]

[Eshkigal]

As the birds finally make it into combat range, Xuan moves forward, pulling an annulat and throwing it at the leader, the blade's design tricking the eyes into making it seem a lot slower than it is.
[roll0] (Neraph Throw on B1)
[roll1]

[BluesEclipse]

The annulat whirls through the air, slicing just past the leading bird's side. The three birds, in unison, glide towards Xuan, the leader's feet glowing with a silvery aura as it swipes at the Neraph with small claws, but fails to do any noticeable damage before it passes, the silver aura fading. The two other birds following it follow suit, clawing futilely at the Limbo native as they glide past, lacking the silvery glow their leader took.

As the others look around, alerted by Xuan's actions, two more sets of birds fly from the southeast and southwest, darting low over the group and clawing at those beneath them.

B1 attacks Xuan, and misses.
B2 attacks Xuan, and misses.
B3 attacks Xuan, and misses.
B4 attacks Xugb, and hits for 1 damage.
B5 does not attack.
B6 attacks Scarlet, and misses.
B7 attacks Avor, and hits for 1 damage.
B8 attacks Nadia, and misses.
B9 does not attack.

Surprise round is now over - roll initiative if you haven't already, and NOW everyone can post actions.

Current Init is as follows:

Xuan - 16
B1, B2, B3, B7, B8, B9 - 11
B4, B5, B6 - 5

Also - anyone who has Knowledge(Nature) may roll it. Xugb and Scarlet may roll Knowledge(Religion) or Knowledge(Planes) as well, if they have it.

[Eshkigal]

With a snarl as claws scrape across his hide, finding no purchase on his hardened skin, he reaches back for his scythe and pulls it out in a large slash, trying to hit the third bird as he bellows a noise that sounds like what burning toast smells like.
[roll0]
[roll1]