Red's HotDQ IC

[JNAProductions]

The Crimson Hammer! A wonderful little bar in the town of Greenest, oft-frequented by the Castellan of the keep, and currently housing four people of great interest.

Here hunting down a man called Henry the Spider, a notorious smuggler who has recently formed ties with the Cult of the Dragon.

Here after escorting Henry the Spider, a notorious smuggler, through the town. He's been caught, but luckily they were unable to stick anything on him. No money, though, other than what he scrounged on his way in.

Here to find Henry the Spider-a notorious smuggler, but one who knows enough to track down the man who killed his own.

Here on the trail of Henry the Spider-a notorious smuggler rumoured to have ties to a cult that might be what he needs to track down to find his mysterious man.

But, as the four men and other patrons sit at the bar, someone rushes inside, screaming with barely coherent words, A dragon! A dragon is attacking Greenest! Gods help us all!

[meltodowno]

P'tay looked down at her clawed hands.

"I'm pretty sure it's not me. Oh please don't be another baying mob."

She rose from her seat with some trepidation walked towards the windows, chancing a glance outside.


[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Outside, soaring high in the clouds, is a massive blue dragon. It opens its gaping maw, lightning gathering at its fangs, and sends a blast directly at the Crimson Hammer.

Everybody make a Dexterity save. Engine automatically fails and will recover Monday.

[meltodowno]

X_x Shortest game ever! lol.

[roll0]

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth makes a heroic attempt to move out of the way as debris starts to rain around the group of heroes.for what it's worth melto said I rolled a 15, and my noob self deleted it!

[Inevitability]

"A dragon?"

Berrian, who had been playing cards with a gruff dwarf up to now, turns around for a moment, then goes back to his game. Villagers probably saw a dragonborn or something. He'd seen a few of them when growing up back home, but they weren't that common here, he guessed.

Those villagers are making a lot of noice, though. Maybe he should...

A sudden blast of light temporary dazzles Berrian, and the half-elf stumbles towards the door. What's happening? he keeps thinking as rubble falls all around him.

[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Berrian, the man says from behind you, a faint whiff of brimstone your only warning to his presence.

You've been slow arriving at Greenest. I don't approve.

Rubble comes tumbling down, knocking out and killing several customers, including Corvo, lying limp under some rubble. A few people unaffected dig at the rubble, getting survivors out, but just as you three might have a chance to start helping as well, the dragon lands in front of P'Tay.

P'Tay, it rumbles out, its voice a deep bass of mountain thunder.

[meltodowno]

P'tays eyes widen in fear.

"Oh sh-" she mouthed before she ducks behind cover.

She scrambled away from the window keeping low to the floor.

"You all need to get out of here before it brings the place down. I might be able to distract it briefly, but you'll need to run for it." she said to anyone listening.

[JNAProductions]

Come on out, little Tau. I wish to speak to you.

[Alidor16]

"This beast may know of the shadow that destroyed my past," Kelindroth quietly whispers to himself. "Mayhaps I can do well in assisting the wounded, and in tarrying longer I can learn more of my path."

"I will see to those able to flee, and guard their escape," He comments to the strangely scaled woman.

[JNAProductions]

The beast perks its ears forward, and whips its head around towards Kelindroth. A friend of P'Tay's, are you? Then stay here. If not...

[roll0]
[roll1]

[meltodowno]

P'tay nodded to Kelindroth and looked around for an alternative exit to the building.


stealth to try and move around towards another exit without been spotted
Perception: [roll0]
Stealth: [roll1]

[Inevitability]

Berrian stares in fear. A friggin' dragon? Here? The half-elf simply looks in disbelief. What was that thing doing here? And more importantly; why was it talking to that strange dragon-woman thing?

"What to do what to do what to do..."

Berrian was conflicted. Should he go help those people or keep hidden? Keeping hidden certainly sounded more sensible, but what then? Maybe the dragon wouldn't go away. And those people... he couldn't let them die, could he?

The half-elf looked at the die he still had clenched in his fist, and slowly rolled it. He wouldn't be the one to decide this.

1-3 is for helping P'Tay and Kelindroth, 4-6 is keeping hidden.

[roll0]

This is going to be the death of me..., Berrian thinks as he calls out something. At least, it'd distract the dragon... he hopes.

"Hey! Dragon! What are you doing here? Leave those people alone!"

Strange enough, Berrian hears his voice not coming from his mouth, but from behind a boulder several meters away. The half-elf frowns. How could that be?

I just used Minor Illusion to create the illusion of my own voice from behind a distant (15-20 feet) piece of debris. Note that Berrian isn't aware how he did this.

If the dragon is distracted, I'll try to sneak away. (+3 stealth modifier)

[JNAProductions]

The dragon whirls its head over, eyes focused on Berrian. No tricks will fool me! It casually swipes its claw out, but it's easy enough to dodge.

Now, little Tau, we need to talk in private. The dragon lunges forward, grabbing P'Tay in its claws after two failed swipes, and then taking to the air.

Grapple check: [roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

Avoidance for P'Tay: [roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

In the air...

You've done good service, P'Tay, for the Cult. More than that, I admire your devotion to all things Draconic.

[meltodowno]

"Put .... me .... down!"

She struggled against the grasp to little avail, but the green light started to shimmer under her scales.

"If you hurt me without provocation ... he'll know. I'm pretty sure you don't want to piss off my granddaddy now, do you? I'm not yours."

Intimidate: [roll0]

[JNAProductions]

The dragon lets out a deep chuckle, expanding into a laugh that shakes P'Tay dangerously around. Funny. But whoever your, he temporarily pitches his voice higher in mockery, grandaddy, is, he doesn't care. Now, would you like to listen, or you would like to be let go?

[meltodowno]

She continued struggling.

"Your breath stinks." she quipped "Well? Are you going to spit out what you want, or are you waiting for me to play the damsel?"

Her own tone dropped into mockery.

"Oh no, please mr Dragon sir, please don't eat me!" a growl rumbled from her throat "If you wanted me dead we wouldn't be talking."

[JNAProductions]

Finally, some spirit! I won't bandy words any more-I see potential in you. Join with us-with me-and I'll see to it you are rewarded as you should be.

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth looks up at the fast receding pair in the sky. "A pity, may the gods look upon her soul with favor."

He rushes back to the civilians, particularly a certain unconscious Human Bard, and makes himself useful bandaging those who need aid.

"We must be quick, I have a feeling that dragon may be one problem of many."

[meltodowno]

Part of her deep inside saw an opportunity in the situation, and began to broker.

"Ah, how delightfully vague an offer. Sorry, I don't do the sycophant thing anymore. Strictly a 'for my own interests' kinda gal. Now if you want something done - and if the coin is right - I'll consider it... but you best make sure you're the highest bidder."

Deception: [roll0]

[JNAProductions]

[roll0]

Let us say... Your life. And 1000 gold, in gems and coins. Only to start, mind you-I value someone like you far more than those sniveling wretches down below.

Down in the Crimson Hammer, a tall, brawny looking man looks at Berrian and Kelindroth. Can you two fight?

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth stares at the man skeptically.

"It depends upon your intent. Yes, I can defend those who need it."

[JNAProductions]

What are you saying? I've lived here my entire damn life, and-sorry, he shakes his head. Just... I'm tough, but I've no real experience. I'll help move these people to the keep-it's the safest place in town. Can you defend me and anyone else moving them while we do?

[meltodowno]

"... I shall consider it ..." she volunteered "... now put me down. If you want help taking down the city I'll need to infiltrate their ranks and make them trust me. Understand?"

[JNAProductions]

I'll fly low over where I left you. Pull a dagger or something and "stab" me. I'll drop you. And here- the dragon manages to make a small stone carved with a mouth on it to appear between its talons. A sending stone. Keep in touch.

The dragon lets out another blast of lightning at the city's southern gates, then swoops down over the Crimson Hammer, claws nearly scraping the roof.

[Alidor16]

His face softening, Kelindroth steps to the man and firmly grips his shoulder.

"Forgive my questioning, the threat of battle does things to every man. I will do all I can."

He pauses, then asks - "Do you know what is going on here? A dragon does not attack a tavern in the middle of a small village for nothing."

[JNAProductions]

He speaks quietly. No, I don't. But I'm going to act like I do so that no one panics. Now, he says louder, let's get going.

He stoops down and starts dragging people out from underneath the rubble, coordinating the other survivors to do the same.

[meltodowno]

As the dragon flew low P'tay sank her sharp teeth into the dragon's scaled hand, tumbling to a halt in the street outside The Crimson Hammer as it released her. She coughed a few times as she struggled to catch her breath, and made her way back inside.

"We need to get gone. It will be back again soon - we shouldn't be here when it is."

[Alidor16]

Feel like a one man show here down below - all I need is some cool themesong and this'd be perfect

"Wait here, let me check the perimeter before we depart."



[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Kelindroth sees two men coming up the street, each with swords and armor bared, flanked by two large lizards the size of ponies.

[Alidor16]

"I'm guessing those two aren't from the village guard."

How much of the building is intact, IE, can I stand in front of a door to shield the civilians, or is there a whole section of wall missing that would make it pointless.

[JNAProductions]

The rubble has fallen so that way the door is the only entrance and exit. You can protect them all, but they won't be able to leave in that case.

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth points to the lead man. "You there! The dragon has instructed us to bring these captives alive for its pleasure! Assist us in binding them."


[roll0]

If the deception check does not work and they still advance with weapons drawn I will move to intercept the nearest.


Kelindroth slowly turns his head to the side and winks to the others.

[Inevitability]

Berrian aids tho others in treating the wounded. The man's question to have him escort the villagers is met with considerable doubt. Moving in a large group wasn't going to be easy... Then again, it would be safer, and the last thing Berrian wanted was becoming a dragon's meal.

"I'll protect you."

As Kelindroth addresses their enemies, though, Berrian quickly steps closer and whispers something.

"Are you sure this is sensible? We want to get to the keep, not to the dragon. I don't think they'd be able to stop us if we resisted them."

[JNAProductions]

What are you lot doing, taking prisoners instead of loot? Still, he laughs, it's your funeral not, mine! Come on, lad and lizards, no sense looting the rubble when there's plenty of places left standing!

He charges on ahead, bringing his silent companion with him and the lizards in tow.

If you decide to attack, you get surprise and advantage on attacks/initiative.

[meltodowno]

P'tay stayed inside, eager to not end up fighting a needless battle, and listening for the foot steps to go away.

"Lets get these people out of here." she said quietly "Once the wounded are safe we can worry about fighting back."

[Inevitability]

"Let's do that."

Berrian waits for the plunderers to disappear before leading the group towards the keep.

[JNAProductions]

You help carry and usher the group towards the keep, luckily avoiding any raiders.

Hoever, when you reach the keep, the guards up above point their bows down at you, arrows nocked.

Halt! Who goes there?

[Alidor16]

"We were in the Crimson Hammer when it was destroyed by a great winged beast. We barely escaped with our lives, only because of the heroics of this woman here." Kelindroth points to P'Tay.

[Inevitability]

Berrian raises his hands to show he is unarmed, and speaks:

"We mean no harm! We merely wish to bring those people to safety!"

[JNAProductions]

Alright-OPEN THE GATES! he shouts. Bring them in, quickly!

[meltodowno]

P'tay entered, her gaze fixed on the floor as she tried to avoid eye contact. These were soldiers in a fight with a dragon, she didn't entirely trust them to tell the difference between her and the dragons followers.

She sidled up closer to the others.

"Well met. My name is P'tay... are you from here?"

[Inevitability]

"Nope. I'm from Baldur's Gate. Have you ever been there?"

[meltodowno]

P'tay shook her head.

"I'm from ... where I'm from we were raised a sheltered upbringing. I only learned about the outside world these last few years. Where does this Baldur's gate lead to?"

[Inevitability]

Taken slightly by surprise by the unusual question, Berrian answers:

"Er... It's a city. I suppose you could say it leads to many places, though..."

Me, it lead here... Berrian bitterly thinks.

[Alidor16]

"I was raised by my human mother's parents in a shipwrights' town in the far east called Carradoon. I have never been this far west, though even I have heard of Baldur's Gate!"

Kelindroth looks at P'Tay closely, his mind recalling past events.

"How did you escape the dragon? I thought you surely were for the Fugue plain."

[meltodowno]

"I told it I'd work for it. Now that it thinks I'm loyal I can start working against it. Even told it I'd have to kill some of it's minions to earn the towns trust."

P'tay gave a shy grin.

"Dragons are too proud to think someone would dare manipulate them. Better kill it before it finds out though, otherwise it won't stop hunting me down."

[Inevitability]

"Wait, kill it? We're still talking about a flying reptilian engine of electrical destruction."

[meltodowno]

"I didn't say it would be easy. Do you think it's going to let anyone leave here alive? It's attacking, with an army who don't like taking prisoners. Mark my words - as of right now we've got to fight or die."

She shrugged.

"Or kneel I guess ... but personally I'd sooner die ..."

[JNAProductions]

You three-thank you for bringing in the civilians. Head into the keep proper and up the stairs-the governor and the castellan will want to talk to you.

[Inevitability]

Berrian greets the guards, then walks up the stairs, thinking about P'tay's words.

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth follows Berrian, also troubled by the dragon.

However, his thoughts were more on the present and what the leaders of this town want with him and his other Crimson Companions.

[meltodowno]

P'tay followed along, still avoiding eye contact with any guards and letting the others do the talking. At least this pair had proven they have a good heart. Guards on the other hand, well she was more than used to the guards patrolling the slums, and knew them to be little more than legitimized thugs.

[JNAProductions]

You all reach the top of the stairs, where a haggard looking man looking over a map of the town is. Caravan guards? Adventurers? Nevermind, you're here to help, aren't you? I'm Governor Nighthill, he holds out his hand to shake, and we're in dire need of assistance.

Get up, ye useless sack. Ye gettin' to do some fighting today. A dwarf with a flaming red beard is standing over you, shaking you awake. Ye's got the look of an adventurer about ya, so you'll be coming with me to see the Governor.

[Engine]

"My head..." after all the shaking, Corvo wakes up and holds his head in the hands in pain. A bruise that looks worse than it actually is covers most of his forehead, but with some effort the bard finally manages to stand up even if he's not really stable on his feet. He sighs and looks the dwarf, frowning a bit "The...Governor? What happened? I can't think straight right now...I remember something collapsing on me..." his voice seems a bit alarmed "But I guess you're in dire need of help, that's why you want me to see this Governor. Lead the way."

[JNAProductions]

Make way, make way! the dwarf shouts as he barges into the room with Nighthill.

Castellan-

More help fer ye here. Now I need to man the gates. TO ARMS, LADS! WE'LL SOONER DIE THAN GIVE THIS UP! he begins to yell as he sprints back down the steps.

Governor Nighthil sighs. A finer warrior you'll never meet, but he grows tiresome sometimes. But under the circumstances...

Now, will you four be willing to help?

[meltodowno]

"I most certainly am." P'tay said, eyes locked on the floor "What would you have of us?"

[JNAProductions]

THere are a few things a more elite group could be used for. You could...


The Old Tunnel
The Sally Port
Prisoners
Save The Mill
Sanctuary

[Engine]

The newly arrived looks the other three before the Governor, probably trying to understand in what mess he is now. Corvo seems battered and bruised, yet not beaten and when it's his turn to talk he clears his throat and nods to the Governor "Governor, I would gladly help your fine town but it would be appreciated to know what kind of help you expect from me and, I guess, from the others too."

[Alidor16]

"I say anything that keeps us out of sight of that dragon is good for me. My vote is the tunnels"

[Inevitability]

"Guess I'll help. I don't have much choice, do I?

Tunnels sound good, though. I like tunnels. They remind me of my home."

Berrian chuckles a bit at his own joke.

[Engine]

"A dragon?" Corvo immediately seems a lot more worried than before, maybe lost in some kind of memory. After a couple of seconds he sighs and nods to the Governor "Yes, I will help." there's a grim determination on his eyes now that he looks to the others "The tunnel is good for me. I am Corvo, anyway."

[meltodowno]

"... I hate tunnels ..."

P'tay bit her lip.

"... but ok. Best to rip the bandage off swiftly, I guess. What of the tunnels?"

[JNAProductions]

Nighthill gives you directions to the bowels of the keep, and soon you find yourselves facing a locked door, the key for which you do not have, it having been lost long ago.

Around you, the lights flicker incessantly, the torches low and guttering in their holders.

[Alidor16]

"So nice of Nighthill to give us directions to a deadend." Kelindroth shakes his head in disgust.

"Anybody with a shady past care to open this door? Or I can do the honors, let's get this over with." He makes a show of planting his feet, ready to charge.

He actually wouldn't rush the door without listening first, I am just trying to show his sarcastic nature.

[Inevitability]

Berrian checks his possessions, pleasantly surprised as he discovers a crowbar. Where did he get that? Why was he carrying it with him, for that matter?

The half-elf takes the tool and hands it to Kelindroth.

"Here, use this."

[Alidor16]

"I guess that works better, but would not be as much fun."

Kelindroth visually searches the door, silently thanking his paternal heritage for his half-elven eyes as the torches continually sputter and spit.


[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

The door is old, mildewed, and rusted along the iron reinforncements. There's enough give near the edge for you to fit the crowbar in, but nothing else of interest.

If you use the crowbar, get advantage for prying open the door.

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth signals the others to be ready, in case something is waiting on the other side.

Slowly he places the clawed edge of the crowbar between the door and the threshold. He braces his hold, and gives a great heave, jumping out of the way of the door.


(guessing athletics check does not count for this?)
[roll0]
[roll1]

[JNAProductions]

[roll0]

The door clatters to the ground, making a small racket. Just beyond the empty doorframe lies a stream at the base of the tunnel. It's doubtful the door was heard over the ambient rushing of the water by anyone other than yourselves, and the rats now swarming around the broken piece of wood.

Everyone roll initiative-the rats are hungry.

[Alidor16]

The paladin of Deneir attempts to ready himself by placing the crowbar behind himself, reaching for his sword.


[roll0]


"Guess I should..." *ngggh*... "oil my scabbard more often... It seems that my blade is..." *grunt* "stuck..."

I imagine a certain scene with sherriff nottingham from men-in-tights.

[meltodowno]

P'tay let out a low growl.


[roll0]

[Inevitability]

At the sight of the hungry rodents, Berrian draws his crossbow.

Initiative: [roll0]

[Engine]

"What the...?" a bit surprised by the sudden appearance of the angry rodents, Corvo draws his bow and prepare to fight.

[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Initiative: [roll0]

Berrian goes before the arts due to a higher stat mod. Stirge, start us rolling!

[Inevitability]

Berrian quickly fires his crossbow, then takes a few steps back. Helping a besieged village was fine; but getting eaten alive by vermin? Not so much.

Action: Crossbow attack on the rats.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] piercing damage.

Movement: I move back enough to have at least one person (preferably Kelindroth) between me and the rats.

[JNAProductions]

Swarm 1: 20
Swarm 2: 24

The rats swarm forward, clinging and climbing onto Kelindroth before gnawing into his flesh with their rending teeth.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]
[roll3]

For all future battle posts, please include your current HP somewhere so I'm able to track it properly. Thank you.

[meltodowno]

14/14


P'tay snarled as she swiftly moved forward to counter charge the oncoming rats, claws lashing out at the filthy creatures.


2 claw attacks vs swarm 1

1st Attack
Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
2nd Attack
Roll: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Alidor16]

Momentarily forgetting his longsword, Kelindroth swings his shield to intercept the flying furry rodents. He protects most of his body, but many get around his shield.

"Gaaaah! The bastards got my face!"

3/12


Finally freeing his longsword, he swings with a blind rage at the beasts who harmed him.

Longsword vs Swarm 1, if still alive
[roll0]

[roll1]

[JNAProductions]

The first swarm of rats, heavily ground down by the various blows, flees back into the cracks and crannies of the dark room.

Disengage and run away.

The remaining rats, seeing their brethren flee, hesitate in their attack, keeping an eye on the weapons.

Dodge action. Disadvantage on attack rolls.

[Engine]

10\10

Corvo steps back, trying to find a good spot to shoot the rats. Then he sees Kelindroth being wounded by the vermins and he closes his eyes, singing a song that rises in the filthy room and seems to acquire consistency and reaching to the paladin, healing the wounds "Heal what has been hurt, change the Fates' design"

Eyes open again, Corvo seizes the swarm of rodents and fires an arrow to it.

Bonus Action: Healing Word on Kelindroth
[roll0]

Attack: Swarm 2
[roll1]
[roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Inevitability]

Berrian involuntarily takes another step back when he sees the rodents swarm Kelindroth. If he were a little slower, it could've been him getting attacked by those rats!

The half-elf fires another bolt, skewering two rats and sending a few others running. He then quickly reloads.

Crossbow!

Attack roll: [roll0]
Disadvantage: [roll1]

Damage: [roll2]

[meltodowno]

P'tay surged into the remaining pack, bringing her claws to bare.


HP 14/14
Attack 1
Attack: [roll0]
Disadvantage: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Attack 2
Attack: [roll3]
Disadvantage: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]

[Alidor16]

With mixed feelings Kelindroth allows the one swarm flee and focuses on the remaining rodents before him.


HP 8/12

Attack roll 1:
[roll0]
Attack roll 2:
[roll1]

Damage if hit:
[roll2]

[Engine]

"Damn, they're just rats!" quite frustrated by the rodents that seems so dangerous despite their small size, Corvo tries to send them running with another shot of his bow.

Attack: Swarm 2
[roll0]
[roll1]

Damage: [roll2]

[JNAProductions]

The rats, thoroughly bloodied, flee into the walls, safely away from the claws and weapons of your party.

[roll0]

As the last rat vanishes, you hear some hissing voices to the right, along the stream.

Did you hear something?

No.

Huh. Must've been the stream.

[Engine]

Corvo's head turns towards the voices, quite confused to find someone down here. Index finger pressed against his lips as a message to his newfound companion, he tries to blend with the shadows of this place to move unnoticed and see what he can find about the others in this tunnel.

Corvo tries to use Stealth

[roll0]

[Alidor16]

From ravenous rodents to strange hissing voices coming towards their party. What next is in store for us? Kelindroth thinks to himself.

He does a quick spot check of his Longsword and cleans the blade as he waits for Corvo to return and report.

[meltodowno]

P'tay shook her head and whispered quietly

"Dragon forces ahead. They heard the fight but seem to have dismissed it. Can't tell how many."

She followed Corvo, crouched low and creeping silently.


[roll0]

[Inevitability]

Berrian looks at his companions as they sneak towards the voices. He doesn't move himself, quite content with being as far away from the enemies as possible.

The half-elf takes out a few dice and absentmindedly starts to roll them in the palm of his hand.

[Alidor16]

His sword cleaned, Kelindroth starts to feel his nerves creep up on him. He needs something to pass the time, or his thoughts might turn south.

Kelindroth stares at Berrian rolling his dice, and a smile splayed across his face. Searching in his own bag, he finds his own set and ambles over to the human.

"This place reminds me of my past too much - care to steady our minds with a game while we wait?"

[JNAProductions]

You see four kobolds and a single man, all of them in patchwork armor and carrying blades.

[Inevitability]

Berrian grins.

"Very well."

The half-elf takes out a few coins and puts them on one of the broken pieces of the door.

How is gambling handled? How about cheating at gambling?

[Engine]

Corvo stays still, watching intently what could be a new threat. Then as slow as before he starts to move backwards, trying to go back to the rest of the group.
When (if) he's finally back he approaches the others, showing four fingers and with a low voice "Kobolds." then just one finger "Human. All armed." clearly trying to avoid detection by the opposing party.

[meltodowno]

"We can't let them find a secret entrance into the keep. They'll kill the defenders from behind." P'tay whispered

[Inevitability]

Berrian annoyedly picks up his dice again. What was so important that... oh wait. Armed invaders. Berrian nods, then whispers:

"I get that. So, how will we deal with them? I'm no military genius, but I think we should try an ambush or something."

[Engine]

"I'm no soldier either, but I agree about ambushing them." Corvo strokes slowly his chin, tyhinking about what to do. Then he mumbles something and talks to the others with a low, conspiratorial voice "All right, I know some magic tricks. I could forge an illusion to bait them in a spot where we could ambush them. What you think?"

[meltodowno]

"Ok, but what of? We don't want them approaching ready for combat."

[Alidor16]

"I hold small faith in arcane magic, but with my background as a soldier, I myself know the benefits of a good diversion." Kelindroth scratches his chin. "If you believe this will work, I am in full support. But would this not tax our resources?"

[Engine]

"It requires very little of my power, the spell I used to clot your wounds was much more exhausting." Corvo shrugs while answering to Kelindroth, then look at P'tay ""Well, it was an idea. What do you think we should do, then?"

[meltodowno]

"That depends how far your mastery of illusion extends." she flexed her claws "But if we don't do something soon our minds will probably be made for us."

"Perhaps a chicken or some other prey creature. An army tends to grow hungry."

[Inevitability]

"Magic? I guess we should use it... I've had bad experiences with it, though."

Berrian reloads his crossbow and prepares to fight the enemies.

[Engine]

"Well, then hide and prepare yourself." Corvo tries to find a good spot where to hide and prepare to weave his illusion; he starts to chant only when he sees his companions hidden aswell "The illusion is the reality, the only contradiction is the observer..." weaving a pattern that then creates a sound, the sound of a chicken high enough to be heard by the opposing party.

Corvo casts Minor Illusion, trying to produce the sound of a chicken in the area where the group is hidden

[JNAProductions]

If you were able to see, you'd have seen the kobolds ears flick forward. Food? one of them says.

After a moment of deliberation, they charge forawrd towards the chicken noise, looking to steal a bite to eat.

No need to roll initiative, go in whatever order you want. Kobolds will go last, and do not act this round.

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth silently slides his longsword free as he waits for the kobolds to pass.

As the last scaled head goes by, he sweeps his blade for a quick kill.


[roll0]
[roll1]

[Inevitability]

Berrian fires a crossbow bolt at the kobold next to the one Kelindroth is taking care of.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Engine]

Corvo waits in the shadows, watching the kobolds fall for the trap. When they're all in the killing area he moves, firing an arrow to one of the kobolds not engaged with one of his companions.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[meltodowno]

P'tay grew increasingly agitated as she waited for the prey, the draconic blood in her veins screaming at her to charge in and kill. She took a sharp intake of breath and held it to focus her thoughts on the ambush.

As the others moved, she surged forwards from the opposite side to Kelindroth, splitting their focus and clawing the most injured looking kobolds - seeking to finish off any left injured.


HP 14/14
Attack 1
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Attack 2
Attack [roll2]
Damage [roll3]

[JNAProductions]

With bows and claws, the kobolds are slain. Two are ripped to shreds by P'Tays claws, while the others are peppered with projectiles leaving them bleeding and dead on the ground.

The combat is over within just a few moments-a seemingly perfect ambush.

[Alidor16]

After the carnage is done, Kelindroth sidles over to Corvo and P'Tay, those who scouted the group of monsters.

"Is that all of them? Do you think some may have escaped?"

[Engine]

Corvo shakes his head, now quite worried "No, there was a human with them. We should hurry, maybe he's trying to call reinforcements"

[meltodowno]

With barely a pause, P'tay dashed down the tunnel to try and find the remaining member of the enemy group, acting more on instinct than conscious thought.

[JNAProductions]

Melto, make a Perception check.

[meltodowno]

Perception: [roll0]

[Inevitability]

Berrian looks as P'tay runs away from the group.

"So... Are we going to follow her?"

The half-elf starts moving down the tunnel already, feeling strangely reinvigorated. Shouldn't he be more tired after two battles in a row, not to mention running from a dragon? Guess I am just tough, he thinks.

If I killed one of the kobolds, I should have 5 temporary HP now, from Dark One's Blessing.

[Alidor16]

"If that human was smart enough to run away he may be trusted enough to know more about this invasion."

"We should bring him before the Governor if we can, I am sure he would love to know, as well."

[Engine]

"You bet we're going to follow her!" Corvo follows suit P'tay, gaze darting around trying to find the remaining member of the attacking party.

[JNAProductions]

You see a man hidden in the shadows, sword at the ready.

Roll initiative!

[roll0]

[meltodowno]

[roll0]


Whilst she had avoided surprise, she hadn't expected him so close. She'd committed herself too fast and that allowed him to get the drop on her.

[JNAProductions]

The man carefully backs away from P'Tay before sprinting for his life.

Disengage, then run his patoot down the tunnel.

[meltodowno]

P'tay sprang after the soldier, unslinging her bow from her shoulder as she kept up the pursuit.

"Halt.."

She took a pot shot at him


Move action forwards
[roll0]
damage: [roll1]


"... or the next one kills."

She flicked her head back down the tunnel, hoping the others caught up soon - she was not as confident in her ranged combat skills.

[JNAProductions]

No! Don't kill me, please! I surrender! He stops and drops his weapon.

[meltodowno]

She kept he bow drawn as she slowly advanced toward the man, stopping 10ft away for the others to catch up.

[Inevitability]

Berrian dashes through the tunnel, his newfound vigor having filled him with some more fighting spirit. As he turns a corner, he sees P'Tay and what he guesses is the man who was with the kobolds.

Berrian walks up to P'Tay, then speaks:

"Nice job. So, what will we do with him now?"

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth swings his pack down and rummages for some rope.

I think we should bind him and being him back to the governor, he'll know what to do with him."

Also, what about those corpes at the entrance to the tunnel? Shouldn't we do something about them?"

[Inevitability]

"I say we leave those for the rats. Heck, they're probably feeding on them as we speak."

[JNAProductions]

Please, just don't kill me! I've disarmed myself!

[meltodowno]

"Shut up, or so help me I will end you." a faint green glow emanated just under her scales as the lust for battle swelled up inside her.


[roll0]


P'tay acknowledged the others suggestions with a nod.

"Good idea. Don't worry, scumbag, the governor will be a lot more lenient than I would be. I'd probably leave you to the rats with your friends."

[meltodowno]

rolling for advantage
[roll0]

[JNAProductions]

Oh goddess! Do anything, please just don't kill me!

[meltodowno]

P'tay sneered in disgust, this snivelling creature wasn't going to give her the outlet her blood hungered for.

No

She took a deep breath, trying to cool down her blood. It was getting ahead of her and it wouldn't do to go do something stupid - like run off ahead of the group again.

"Were there any others with you?"

It was a reasonable question, and it played up to the persona he'd seen of her. Now her blood was starting to cool however, she started to regret her previous actions.

[Inevitability]

"Calm down, P'tay. We kind of need this guy. Let's say you get to kill him gruesomely if he lies or doesn't cooperate. Until then, we keep him alive."

"Hm... Maybe you can eat his leg now, or something. That should be a good compromise, shouldn't it?"

Berrian is half-serious, but hopes that at the very least it would scare the prisoner some more.

[Engine]

"Stay still."
Corvo approaches the prisoner and starts frisking him, searching for clues and hints - maybe even written orders - about the mission of the group, or its affiliation. Dragons, kobolds...the Harper frowns, worried and maybe even scared yet with a kind of desperate determination in his eyes.

[JNAProductions]

You find a small pouch, containing five gold pieces, thirteen silver pieces, a handful of coppers, and two finely crafted earrings.

However, yur brief search reveals no clues.

[meltodowno]

P'tay glanced over at Berrian.

"I have standards. Besides, not much eating on this one."

She tilted her head back to the captive, but this time the anger had left her voice, her words were softer.

"I believe I asked you a question. You wouldn't want me to have to repeat myself, would you?"

[JNAProductions]

J-just the k-kobolds! N-n-no one e-else!

[Engine]

"Just some golds and riches." Corvo shrugs, but seems dissatisfied of what he found on the prisoner. He look at the scared man being roughed by P'tay, then says in a more conciliatory manner "Maybe we can come to an agreement. You tell us what was your mission, for who you're working, why are you here in Greenest...and we could say to the Governor that you helped, so maybe he will show mercy."

[JNAProductions]

The mission? Loot everything. Treasure, gems, gold, artwork, anything valuable. Who hired me... They'll kill me. I can't say. I can't.

[Alidor16]

"I think a few of us are already willing to do that for you, unless you tell us specifically who it is."

Kelindroth looks to P'Tay specifically and gives her a quick wink.

"Trust me, it's been a long day. It's in your best interest to cooperate."

[JNAProductions]

The Cult! The Cult of the Dragon!

[Inevitability]

"Cult of the what, now? That blue dragon's created a whole cult around himself?"

[JNAProductions]

No-something else. I'm just a merc! I don't really know!

[Engine]

Corvo grimaces when he hears for who the man really works. He closes his eyes, sighing heavily, before answering Berrian "They're a cult of deranged individuals who worship dragons. They're quite dangerous, but they're usually more...subtle." he seems unconvinced and worried about what's happening in Greenest.

[meltodowno]

P'tay shrugged.

"Well, let's take him back and let the guards deal with him. We likely have better things to be doing with our time than hanging out with the vermin."

She made sure that she glanced at the captive as she spoke the final word.

[Inevitability]

"Weren't we supposed to explore those tunnels or something?"

[JNAProductions]

You're supposed to clear the tunnels and ensure they're safe so a guard can be posted and the tunnel used.

[meltodowno]

P'tay sighed, but checked over the rope that had tied the captive.

"Fine, I'll take him back to a guard, whilst you guys continue? We shouldn't just leave him to be eaten by rats. Should we ?"

[Alidor16]

"Sounds good to me, I just always have this need to know about my enemy. After the last war I was in, I don't like to be caught unprepared."

Kelindroth places everything back in his pack and prepares to set out again.

[meltodowno]

P'tay hauled the captive up onto his feet, and grinned.

"I'll be back swiftly, try not to get killed ok?"

She started marching the captive back up towards the keep.

[JNAProductions]

P'Tay
You march your captive back towards the keep, with him quivering in fear all the while. When you return to the keep, there's a small squad of guards waiting by.

The Governor wants to be present for any interrogation, ma'am, so if you could take the prisoner to him, that'd be best.

We're here to secure the tunnel. We'll take over for the rest of your group so you can be deployed elsewhere as needed.

Everyone Else
You reach the end of the tunnel, seeing the bright light of day leaking in through an old hinged grate. The area is, for now, clear of any raiders.

[meltodowno]

P'tay nodded, and continued leading the captive inwards.

"So, what else do you know? What's the dragons next move? You have to know something, right? That's what they'll be asking you about, and you best have something for them."

[JNAProductions]

I swear, I don't know anything!
More information requires a check of some kind. Intimidate would make the most sense, but if you can justify another check, go for it.

[meltodowno]

P'tay leaned in close to his ear and whispered softly.

"Your life means nothing to me, so much less than your information does. Tell me all you know, and swiftly, and you never know, I might get distracted ... we wouldn't want you making your escape now ... would we?"

She slid a claw down his cheek, not hard enough to leave a mark, but with enough force to make him on edge.

Deception [roll0]

Potential advantage [roll1]

[JNAProductions]

[roll0]

Gods! Oh gods, please don't kill me! I saw Henry the Spider talking to the dragon! That's it, that's all the rest I know! I don't even know the rendevous spot-one of the kobolds did.

[meltodowno]

P'tay grinned and kissed him on the cheek, but there was no affection behind it.

"Good boy."

She pushed him to get him walking again

"Now, I'm going to take you to meet the Governor. And gosh darn it you are going to be ever so polite and smart. You are going to tell him everything you have told us, and you are going to throw yourself at my feet for mercy. I will then tell the governor how forthcoming you have been, and ask him to be easy in his sentencing."

Her voice hardened suddely.

"Understand? Or would you prefer to be a head shorter by daybreak ?"

[JNAProductions]

Y-y-yes ma'am! O-of c-course!

[meltodowno]

P'tay continued to push the captive towards where she last saw the Governor. She nodded to the guards as she did.

"Got a prisoner. I heard the Governor wants to get the information from him first hand, so mind letting me in, if he is free of course?"

She smiled disarmingly.

"Got enough to try and do keeping this town safe without wasting time babysitting raiders."

[JNAProductions]

The guards shuffle the prisoner out, and one brings P'Tay to the governor.

I hear you've cleared the tunnel, and the rest of your group will be back safely before long. Excellent!

Now-what did you learn?

[meltodowno]

P'tay bowed her head to the governor.

"We killed some rats and kobolds, and I brought a human prisoner for your justice."

She sighed heavily.

"I would plead leniency on his behalf - he has been forthcoming with what he knew, did not attack us ... and he seems something of a simpleton who got led down the wrong path."

She glanced back towards the door.

"It would perhaps be best if we waited on the others to tell you more, they perhaps found more than I, for ultimately I found little other than their employers - the Cult of the Dragon."

[JNAProductions]

The... The Cult of the Dragon? Gods above... The governor clears his throat. Well. Gather your companions-the castellan has sent a few scouts out to ascertain where help is needed, and they should be returning shortly. In the meantime, you should all rest.

Once you all return to the keep, you'll have a few minutes to yourselves. Indicate in the OOC thread when you'd like to move on.

[Alidor16]

After an uneventful inspection of the last stretch of tunnels, Kelindroth arrives back in the main area of the keep thankful for a short moment of rest.

If everyone else is resting I might use a short rest, but I believe I'm ok at 8/12 with LoH still intact.

I'll follow everyone's lead though, 4 hp may be important, especially since bard only has 1 slot left.

[meltodowno]

P'tay inclined her head at the others arrival.

"How did it go ?"

[Alidor16]

Kelindroth wearily leans against the nearest stone wall for support and lets out a weary breath.

"Thankfully we did not run into any further trouble. We did, however, find a possible route to leave the keep unnoticed. Praise to Deneir for his wisdom in guiding us to that tunnel," he bows his head respectfully.

"From what our prisoner told us we may be seeing that place often to strike directly at our foe. Our night will be a long one, I'm afraid."

[Engine]

"The trouble is...generally the Cult of the Dragon doesn't work this way. A show of force like this, against a relatively small city..." Corvo is clearly worried, gears grinding in his head trying to make sense of what he saw and heard. And it seems quite personal for him "They prefer secrecy, so why they decided to attack Greenest? Either the prisoner is lying, or the Cult is up to something."

If someone needs to rest to regain HP or abilities, I'm ok with a short rest.

[Inevitability]

Berrian keeps to himself. Fighting rats and kobolds wasn't a daily activity to him, and he wasn't particularily interested in talking about dragons and cults and whatnots either. The half-elf rolls a few dice, just to keep his mind occupied.

[JNAProductions]

As you rest, someone comes up from the tunnels. He's dressed in armor, though it's torn and broken in a few places, and he's bleeding slightly from various wounds. His eyes are blurry, and it looks like he's a bit out of it.

Sirs! He quickly, if sloppily, salutes. The church is being attacked! There's a large amount of innocents within, and they need help now!

[Alidor16]

With a quick glance to the others, Kelindroth shifts from his comfortable spot against the wall.

"I am sure we would be perfectly willing to help, and I urge you to lead on. However, so we are best prepared to help I wish to know more of the situation. Tell us man, what did you see?"

[JNAProductions]

They had a ram at the front, and the back of the church was covered in smoke. I had to run-they spotted me and gave chase, so that's all the information I have.

[Alidor16]

"Thank you for that, it helps more than you think."

"Then let us hurry, I know a thing or two about being powerless to stop those from doing ill to you." Kelindroth looks away, voice lowering until it is barely audible. "I would wish it on no man."

[meltodowno]

P'tay rolled her eyes slightly at the mention of the church, she had no taste for them given her upbringing, but still lives were at stake. She forced herself up from her seat on the floor where she had been lounging.

"Let's get underway then I suppose"