IC [1] For Honor! For Glory! For Grimgorge!

[Felhammer]

https://s2.postimg.org/3tbjgi9e1/Priest.png

"Welcome, welcome! Welcome to EXECUTION DAY!" The high priest of Sonbahar yells from a nearby balcony. Father Alfbjorn Orcslayer is clad in a simple burlap robe. Upon his face is the Blindfold of Justice, worn by the high priest of the holiday. It symbolizes that Justice is blind and that on this day, commoner or noble, man or woman, if a person is found guilty, he will be executed. Beside the high priest is a young girl, perhaps no more than 12 or 13 years old. You recognize her as Lady Torka, great-granddaughter of Queen Torka (granddaughter of Princess Vatha, daughter of Lady Starwulfa). She is fourth in line of succession for the crown. Unlike her relatives, she is an Aasimar, blessed by the God of Autumn himself. Her hair is streaked with two shocks of bright orange hair. Although young, much responsibility has been thrust upon her young shoulders. She is much beloved by the people of Moondale and is considered to be wise beyond her years. Many seek her counsel for both religious and secular issues. In her delicate hands is the Warhammer of Command, the symbolic weapon for the political leader who controls this settlement. This duty was passed to Lady Torka, as the celebration and ceremonies in the capital of Stunborg take precedence over the smaller city of Starg (thus calling the Lady’s relatives away from Starg). The people do not seem to mind, for Lady Torka is popular (and some often whisper that they prefer Torka over her mother and grandmother).

All of Starg (plus most of the surrounding countryside) have flooded into the main square of the city, here to witness the celebration. Vendors sell sweets and snacks, while others sell masks, clothing and weapons. A gallows has been constructed in the middle of the town square, with enough nooses to hang 10 people at once. In front of the gallows, a beheading rock has been hauled in and set up. Two executioners wearing black hoods stand near the rock, one armed with a great sword and the other armed with a great axe. The former is for nobles, the latter for commoners. The Greataxe is slick with blood, while the sword is clean. Young adults dressed in orange wolf costumes take the heads and run through the streets, displaying them for all to see. After they run a circuit through the city, they return to the main square where the heads are placed on pikes, outside the royal residence. Two paddy wagons sit next to the gallows, both full of prisoners.


https://s2.postimg.org/kd982qyo9/Execution.png

Ten new prisoners are hauled up to the gallows. The first is a disrespectful looking man. His eyes are the color of ice and his hair as black as ink. His whole body twitches and convulses at random intervals, occasionally smacking someone near him. The second is a female half-orc with a painted face. The third is a human woman with green eyes, tears streaming down her face. The fourth is a woman with pale skin and blonde hair. The fifth is a human male with sandy blond hair and a lean build. The sixth is a male gnome who has a thick mustache. The seventh is a female tiefling with small horns protruding from her forehead. The eighth is another gnome, but this one is female with red hair. The ninth is a powerfully built half-orc who stands nearly seven and a half feet tall. The last prisoner is a half-elf with pale white skin and black eyes.

High priest Alfbjorn casts his gaze down upon the prisoners. "Each of you is guilty of something! Some have been stricken by the frostrage, while others are simple murderers, cutthroats and bandits. Six of you, however, are cultists. Brought together by your disturbing love for devils and demons. You were found, at the scene of the crime, each passed out around a summoning circle... A circle used to bring forth a powerful and malevolent DEVIL!

The crowd gasps in horror!

Although we do not know where the devil is currently, he will surely return to wreak havoc upon Moondale and Grimgorge!

The crowd gasps again!

A half-elf walks out from the shadows of the balcony. He is clad in black armor, emblazoned with a golden sun cresting the horizon. On his back is a flowing red cape. He has a thick mane of long black hair that flutters in the breeze. “Fear not, gentle people of Starg!” yells the half-elf, “I am Enhjornbrecht Rangerson, Commander of Grimgorge. I have ordered all of the Rangers in the Queendom to seek out this devil and slay him! As you know, the Rangers are the strongest and most cunning hunters throughout the land. Our entire purpose is to slay those that wish to do harm to civilization. With the aid of the Monastery of Mighty Blows, the Imperial Church and the forces of the Queendom, no devil - no matter how strong - can possibly stand against us!

The Commander’s speech soothes the crowd, which had been on the brink of rioting from fear.

The blindfolded high priest casts his gaze upon those to be executed, “As I said, you have committed crimes most heinous and vile. Each of you will be hanged, drawn and quartered for your crimes. Your bodies will then be beheaded, your heads paraded around the city and then, finally, your heads will be placed upon the pikes of law and order, so that all will know the fate of those who consort with devils and demons!

The male gnome who is to be executed screeches in a blind panic - NO! NO! NO! I only murdered my wife! I deserve the axe! Don’t quarter me! That’s too harsh of a punish…”

SILENCE! Commands the high priest. “Thou shalt not disrespect the proceedings with such trivial pleading!”

The gnome falls deathly silent.

“As I said, each of you will be hung, drawn and quartered! SO SAYETH THE HIGH PRIEST! SO SAYETH THE FLOCK!”

The hangman walks to each criminal in turn and tightens the noose around their necks. He then saunters over to the levers and looks up to the balcony.

Lady Torka stands up and rests the Warhammer on the ledge of the balcony. She holds out her hand in a tight fist. Just as she is to give the hand signal to execute the criminals, she screeches in pain. The girl falls to her knees, holding her head. The High Priest and the Ranger dive down to aid the noblewoman.

The crowd gasps, no one knows what is going on.

Suddenly, the alarm bells start ringing!

DING! DING! DONG!

DING! DING! DONG!

Yelling can be heard from the docks, “GOBLORC PIRATES! GOBLORC PIRATES!”


https://s2.postimg.org/hunj22cy1/Commander.png

The Commander stands up and calls out, “MEN! DEFEND THE CITY! TO THE DOCKS! NOW!” In one graceful move, the Half-Elf leaps from the balcony and lands on the ground some thirty feet below with a somersault. The soldiers and guardsman spread throughout the town square rush through the mass of people, heading towards the docks.

Intense fighting can be heard off in the direction of the docks. The crowd fearfully flees to the north.

Suddenly, panicked cries come from the north as well. People scream, “ORCS! ORCS! ORCS!”

The high priest curses under his breath. He looks down at the two executioners. FOR HONOR! FOR GLORY! FOR GRIMGORGE!

The High Priest and the two executioners leap into battle. They swing their weapons with grace and poise, all masters of their martial art. They fight valiantly against the orcs but there are many of them and few defenders. Some orcs break from the pack and start butchering people in the crowd.


https://s2.postimg.org/s8jrhk8ax/Lady_Torka.png

Lady Torka leans against the balcony and looks down upon the prisoners. “Are… Any of you…?” She screams again as she grasps her head.

Ethereal orange angel wings sprout from her back. She gracefully floats from the balcony to the gallows. The young girl walks up and down the line. She pauses to look at six of the prisoners. It just so happens that the six she looks at are those accused of summoning a devil. Lady Torka strides over to the levers and yanks four of them back. The man stricken with the Frostrage, the crying woman, the gnome with a mustache who had been magically silenced and the mighty half-orc male all drop quite suddenly, the rope snapping their necks.

The young girl then asks, “I know you. Each of you. You haunt my dreams. I do not know who you are or from where you come but… I believe you to be virtuous men and women. The city is under siege. It requires heroes. The cowering masses here will be butchered if no one stands up to defend them. The high priest and the executioners have already leapt to the defense of civilization. Will you do the same? Will you pledge yourselves to defending Starg from these orcish raiders? Will you rise to the challenge put before you?”

[Lord Of Mantas]

http://i.imgur.com/WFHi8IN.png
Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 6 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: Tied Up (Pinned)

It was a fair thing to say that the aasimar known as Sister Hedwig Gotlinde was probably having the worst day of her life. Four days ago, her world had been turned upside down; she had woken up in a strange room, along with six other people, around a summoning circle - one that had been used to summon a demon. More pressingly, they had then been surrounded by rangers and guards with their swords drawn. For four days, she had been thrown in a cell with the rest of them, with no trial, no memory of how she had gotten into that room, and nothing to do but wait for the inevitable.

Much like the Lady Torka who stood before them, Hedwig had a shock of color through her long blond hair, although hers was white rather than orange - a sign of blessing from Almahara, or so she had been told throughout her life. Having had her nun's robes and staff confiscated from her, she was dressed in the rough, simple clothing of a prisoner inbound to the gallows - nothing more than a simple burlap dress, mildly stained, and very scratchy. Up until about a minute or so ago, the nun had largely ignored this, having been busy praying feverishly to the Lady of Summer under her breath in a plea for, if not deliverance, at the very least a swift death via hanging, so that she would not still be alive when they quartered her. Her breath had hitched as the hangman pulled the noose taut, some slight tears rolling down her cheeks as she steeled herself for her imminent demise. And then, the Lady Torka had fallen to her knees screaming, and the alarm bells had started sounding...

And there she was. In front of them, offering the chance at freedom once again.

Who in their right mind would refuse?

Raising her head, her sapphire-blue eyes piercing Lady Torka's, Hedwig gave her reply.

"I am a nun of Almahara. Defending those who cannot defend themselves is my calling. Release me, and I will lend my magic to Starg's defense."

She looked into the crowd, where the Orcs were starting to penetrate into the throngs of screaming people desperately trying to escape.

"And, if you will forgive my impertinence, milady, I would suggest haste. I do not think we can tarry for long."

[Taya]

Natalie "Fallenlord"

After almost 4 days of non-stop bawling her eyes out, the time has come for execution. Natalie just could not stop crying, she was almost dehydrated at that point. She knew she was innocent, but it seemed like the guards did not believe her. Amazing, one of the few times she is actually telling the truth, and no one believes her. After such a trauma, she'll actually be lying even more than usual.

Strangely, when the time came for her to be hanged, she did not cry. She was sad, she was frightened, but she did not cry. All the walk she did, and the standing up in boxes to be near the noose, she could only look down and think about... Life. How many others were falsely accused? How many died in vain? How many free people are actually... Liars? At the moment of the noose, a thought passed her head. Even if she demonized herself for lying all the time, lying is what get people further in life. Getting caught, is what make people die. She believes she got caught in a lie that some people actually set her up to; and for such, she would hang.

... Or so she believed until the sounds came. The battle broke, and now, she trembles. The thought about an orc invasion made her feel even more frightened, but... That was an opportunity. And, it seemed like Lady Torka's actually believed her. "I-I can help... I... Don't know how much bu-but I can try to help!" she said, her voice trembling. "But... I ne-need my hands free to use my magic..." she said in a low voice, almost whispering.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval Meregost

As familiar as he was with the superstition of the masses, Koval had never imagined it would come to this. Trussed up like a common thug, dragged through a pretense of a trial and sent to hang for the entertainment of Starg's noisome multitudes, it seemed whatever providence had seen him safely through his childhood had abandoned him. He had not wept at the sentencing, or in the days spent in a dank cell - he was too proud. Yet bereft of the voices of his forefathers, he felt alone even amidst his fellow prisoners. Those four days of silence had summoned forth long-buried memories, the terrors that hounded Koval's history rearing their heads one after another until it was almost a relief to be dragged into the sun. Awaiting death alongside the other sacrifices to the lie of Imperial justice, Koval fixed his gaze on the high priest and the preening warrior using Koval's last minutes as a political prop. Were he imbued with magic, or blessed with Malphas' understanding of the workings of things, he might have set the balcony aflame with that gaze. Determined to stare unblinking into the faces of his murderers, he did not notice the collapse of the princess until the warning bells. But when he did, he could sense his providence returning.

Thoughts of the ranger and high priest fading as they disappeared from view, the black-eyed knight watched dispassionately as the Lady Torka descended to the gallows. Even in acts of mercy, it seemed, the Imperial Church was given to gross displays of power. His face was graven stone when she turned to address him, and he spent a long moment appraising her fragile youth before responding.

"My family defended these lands long before yours arrived, Lady. Free us, and I will continue that duty."

His eyes narrowed.

"Despite this miscarriage of justice."

[BramsesII]

Kas

An ignominious ending to an ignominious life. Fitting.

Kas knew a thing or two about waking up with a headache, but the one she had woken up with in shackles was particularly unpleasant. A hobgoblin wardrummer was been giving a particularly loud performance somewhere in between her eardrums. Her tongue was dry and swollen, her stomach felt like it had done one too many backflips. Oh yes, and she was on her way to be executed. That'd put anyone in a bad mood.

She didn't pay the other prisoners much mind as they waited for execution, though she did yell "shut up" at the bawling gnome at least once. Aside from that, she'd been quiet. Not praying. Not considering a way out. Not crying. Just quiet.

Yeah, this was coming at some point.

One can imagine her surprise when, with the noose already around her neck, a sudden orc attack put an end to the plans of execution. Kas hadn't been paying that much attention to what'd been going on. Logically, the princess' request came as quite a surprise. The painted half-orc looked at the princess, then at her hands, then back a the princess. No point in keeping up appearances here.

"Haunting your dreams huh? That'd put someone off sleeping forever." *Grumble* "I suppose I can lend a hand. Stabbed to death beats drawn and quartered."

"Do you want me to die threateningly at them or are you going to untie me and let me grab my weapon and potions? Because currently I can only do the first."

[Othniel]

Saskia Amberlock

Saskia had sauntered up the steps to the gallows with her head held high and a mocking smile upon her face. She twitched her tail at one of the guards on her way up and flashed him a lascivious grin. The Tiefling had intended to maintain her composure and die with a smile on her lips, but the high priest was now droning on, and it seemed she'd die of boredom before they dropped her.

It's because I'm a Tiefling, right? Saskia practically bored holes in the high priest's face with her glare. She'd been nursing a spark of anger in her belly for four days now, ever since she woke up imprisoned for a crime she hadn't committed. Probably hadn't committed. Her memory was fuzzy, and she had probably drank a lot. There were entire weeks she couldn't remember, but she had never liked the idea of messing with devils or demons, especially considering her bloodline. Reminding daddy or granddad that he had mortal progeny strutting about was a poor decision, she figured. Plus, devils and demons were bad news anyway, evil through and through. Many people assumed Tieflings were inherently evil as well. Except dwarves. Dwarves were pretty good folk, in general, if a bit gruff. But she'd learned to be hated by strangers, and could freely return it just as easily. Hatred was an old friend by now. Hatred and anger.

The high priest was speaking again, this time looking at the prisoners. Saskia gave him a toothy grin. "Each of you is guilty of something! Some have been stricken by the frostrage, while others are simple murderers, cutthroats and bandits. Six of you, however, are cultists. Brought together by your disturbing love for devils and demons. You were found, at the scene of the crime, each passed out around a summoning circle... A circle used to bring forth a powerful and malevolent DEVIL!

"I've loved some disturbing things before, and I probably will again," she said, loud enough for her fellow prisoners to hear, but just out of range of the high priest. "But I never did summon no devil. Any devil. Nor demon."

Although we do not know where the devil is currently, he will surely return to wreak havoc upon Moondale and Grimgorge!

Not my problem! Saskia tuned out the gasps of the crowd. They'd believe anything the mooks in the Imperial Church told them. Such good little sheep they were. She was distracted from her mental disparagement of the Church as a fancy-looking half-elf appeared at the balcony. She dismissed him and examined her manacles. If she could manage to flex just right, they might fall off.

“As I said, you have committed crimes most heinous and vile. Each of you will be hanged, drawn and quartered for your crimes. Your bodies will then be beheaded, your heads paraded around the city and then, finally, your heads will be placed upon the pikes of law and order, so that all will know the fate of those who consort with devils and demons!

That was rather gruesome. Stylish, but gruesome. Again, no mention of a fair trial, however. These people were savages. She had a few more moments to spare as one of the gnomes begged for mercy. She worked her wrists in the manacles. Almost there...

“As I said, each of you will be hung, drawn and quartered! SO SAYETH THE HIGH PRIEST! SO SAYETH THE FLOCK!”

Saskia surreptitiously dropped her manacled hands down as the hangman gave her the hempen necktie. She was sure now that she'd found the right leverage. She'd burst bonds before, and was sure she could do it quick enough to grab the rope when they dropped her.

Then all the hells broke loose.

“GOBLORC PIRATES! GOBLORC PIRATES!”

The hells is a goblorc? It didn't matter, Saskia had the break she needed and strained at her bonds. She felt the manacles give a little, but not enough. One more try then.

Suddenly, the child was before them and four of the prisoners were dangling. Wasn't their day, I guess.

Will you pledge yourselves to defending Starg from these orcish raiders? Will you rise to the challenge put before you?”

"Kid, I'll ask them to dance for you if it'll get me out of these manacles." Saskia held up her hands before the girl and the chains clinked as she turned them to present the lock. "Might want to hurry though. The offer expires when I do."

[Estralita]

Lukas

Paladins were supposed to be brave. Empowered by their God or Goddess to fight the worst foes entirely without fear. So why was he so afraid now?

Lukas had spent the last few days in prayer, asking for Reinarra's blessing, her aid, something. He though that he was still empowered by her, and he couldn't imagine that he would ever summon a devil (honestly, why would he?) but his memory was just too muddled to understand what was happening, and his magic too weak.

During the final speech before his and the other's executions, Lukas tuned everything out,, and focused everything in one last prayer.

My lady Reinarra, thank you so much for what you have blessed me with. Not just magic, but freedom and the chance to truly live. I know that I haven't always made the best use of your gifts, but I think I've tried my best, and I know I have so much more to do in your service. Please, just give me the chance ot show you what I can do. All I want is a chance.

Please.

So lost was Lukas in his plea, he nearly missed the offer of freedom standing in front of him. But the noise of battle brought him back to himself. All he could do is nod in shock.

Thank you, Reinarra.

[Felhammer]

As the battled rages behind the prisoners, Lady Torka nods, "Then we are in agreement, petty differences aside, of course. Under an Oath of Sonbahar, I stay your execution so that you may defend this city from the orcs. The girl then races to each prisoner and unlocks their manacles.

You guys are up, then the Orcs.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval Meregost

Favoring the Princess with a curt nod as his shackles were unlocked, Koval turned and raced for the chest at the foot of the gallows. Passing the other prisoners without a word, he leapt down from the wooden edifice, seeking to land on his feet.

[roll0]

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Stayed permanently, I hope!" Saskia said, allowing the woman to set her free. Sweet freedom! She fought down an immediate urge to make a break for the edge of town. Have to get my da's belt, and Witchbiter. She grimaced. And kill some orc globs, or whatever the hells they were. Free of her bonds, she took a running leap off the gallows and landed with a thud, legs and one arm touching the ground. For just a moment she stood there in tattered prison clothes, tail twitching nervously and clawed feet clicking on the ground. She dashed over to Koval near the chest. "Have half a mind to run for it, but I s'pose I gave my word," she muttered glumly to the...knight?

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

The noose came loose, as did the manacles. First, disbelief at the fact that she had survived came. Then, elation that she had not died. Then, anger at the injustice that had been done to her, and to the five men and women beside her. And then, as the cries of the wounded echoed toward her, the determination to put her grievances aside (if only for the moment) and focus on helping those in need.

"I have never summoned neither devil, nor demon, nor daemon."

It was an echo of what the tiefling had said, but the aasimar's focus was not on her.

"But I have summoned many other things, in the past. It is my special talent."

Hedwig widened her stance and raised her arms.

"I am Aasimar, blessed by the Lady of Summer at birth, and trained in her ways since I could walk. In her name, I am sworn to protect the innocent, to defend the weak, to heal the wounded!"

The nun began to twirl in an almost dance-like motion. Upon her forehead, half-hidden beneath a headband woven of gold and black thread, a birthmark in the shape of a sun began to glow.

"And it is in her name that I summon forth aid, to drive back those who would murder the people of Starg!"

Unleashing a wave of positive energy, Hedwig chanted the words of a familiar spell as she focused on two spots beside the executioners. Slowly, the form of two monsters began to take shape.

"<I SUMMON THE CELESTIAL WOLVES OF ALMAHARA!>" IN ATTACK MODE!

Hedwig converts her memorized spell Bestow Curse into Summon Monster II, summoning forth 2 Celestial Wolves (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/bestiary/monster-listings/animals/canines/wolf/summoned-creature-wolf/). Because of the feat Superior Summoning, she gets to add an additional monster to her roll (of 1), and because of Augment Summoning, the wolves have +4 STR and CON. Because of Summon Good Monster, they also have the Diehard Feat.

[Felhammer]

You can see the Half-orc prisoner was dropped like the others but his immense height was not accounted for. He survived the drop and is now balancing himself on his tiptoes. He looks at the two of you with a pleading face. "Help..."

[Taya]

Natalie "Fallenlord"

She smiles as she sees the lady unlocking her manacles. "Thank you! I'll do my best to help!" she thinks about making a run for the items, but then she sees the Aasimar stopping to use his spell. She watches, mesmerized, as the girl makes a short summoning ritual. Natalie smiles, as an idea starts to form into her mind. Hey, I can do that too!

Natalie widens her stance and raises her arms, and, smiling, starts her own ritual. "I am Gnome, blessed by the Lady of Summer at birth, and trained in her ways since I could walk. In her name, I am sworn to protect the innocent, to defend the weak, to heal the wounded!" The small girl begins to twirl, almost fully copying the Aasimar's summoning ritual, but with a little more spirit into it, as she seems very excited into doing so. "And it is in her name that I summon forth aid, to drive back those who would murder the people of Starg!"

Then, she points the palm of her hand forward, shining into a white glowing light, as, slowly, the form of the monsters start to take form, exactly like the ones summoned by the cleric. She, however, does not summon merely 2 - she summons 9.

"<I SUMMON THE CELESTIAL PACK OF WOLVES OF ALMAHARA!>" IN DEFENSE MODE

[BramsesII]

Kas

Petty differences. That's what they're calling wrongful execution these days?

Zivkasha grumbles as the noose and the manacles come loose. She rushes to leap off the platform and grab her things. Bloody *** sheep-faced *** *** royals. I should make a *** run for it.

She looks over her shoulder, almost immediately chastising herself. ***! Can't let those *** orcs run loose with innocents around. That's not what a hero would do.

Kas begins rummaging through the opened box to quickly grab her bag and sword. "Where's my *** stuff?"

*** - censored to keep a forum-friendly post. Kas' language is... shall we say... colorful.

-Move action to J15
-I'm assuming someone opened the box already. As Kas is not the first to get down there. What sort of actions would it take to find & grab Kas' things?

[Estralita]

Lukas

People in danger. No time to waste. As soon as he was free, Lukas hopped down from the gallows in a blink. Running over to the chest, Lukas only stopped to silently thank Reinarra his things were still there and grab them, then head back up the gallows. He needed the best view possible, after all if he wanted to hit his enemies, and only his enemies.

No matter what was happening, or what these people may or may not have done, Luka was still a paladin, and he had a job to do.

[Felhammer]

The Orcs maneuver around, trying their best to lay into the both the crowd and the three defenders. They make quick work of innocent bystanders and bloody the two executioners. One orc stands in the back. He confidently calls out in Orcish.

"Join me brother and sister! We shall unite the Orcs and defeat these scum! Join me! Together we may purge the land and stain the soil red!"

Lady Torka floats over towards the freed prisoners. She looks at Koval, Lukas and Mad Kas. "By the power of Autumn, your weapons are blessed!"

Koval's Lukas's and Kas's weapons all have the Keen property.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Rifling through the chest, it did not take long for Koval to find what he sought. The Blade of Ill Omen stood apart from lesser swords, the glossy darkness of the blade unblemished even after days of careless treatment. As Koval pulled the blade free, it seemed almost to whisper, tasting the air. Strapped to the hilt was a small shield, worn where the sword was like new, sculpted in the shape of a screaming face. In a few practiced motions, the shield was pulled free and braced to Koval's free hand. He turned to circle the gallows and meet the oncoming raiders, but as he did so he noticed the surviving recipient of Starg justice. He paused, pity and pragmatism waging a brief battle in his eyes, before pulling an iron-bound club free from the chest and marching resolutely forward.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As Hedwig finished her ritual and the wolves sprang forth from the aether, ready to chomp at the invading orcs, she began standing up from her final pose.

I know it's not strictly necessary for the spell, but I kind of feel naked doing this without my staff-

And then she caught sight of what the gnome she would later come to know as Natalie was doing. Her eyes widened almost comically, and her jaw dropped completely open, the nun completely unaware that the other wolves were a mere illusion.

"S-so many..."

If we make it out of this, I have to ask her how she did that. Even on my best day, I've only ever been able to summon four at a time!

Her attention was drawn back to the battlefield as the presumed leader of the orcs barked something out in his cruel and harsh language. The wolves would direct themselves, so that left her with other duties - namely, to bless and protect those who would soon be joining the fray.

Clasping her hands, Hedwig bowed her head, the birthmark on her head blazing once again as she chanted a prayer in the old language of magic.

"<Almahara, grant my allies your luck, and bring misfortune to my enemies!>" I ACTIVATE A MAGIC CARD (OKAY I'LL STOP NOW)

Hedwig moves to O12, then casts Prayer (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/p/prayer/), granting all allies +1 to attack, damage, skills, and save defenses, while giving enemies -1 to such things. This effect is cast upon all who are currently within 40 feet.

Meanwhile, the celestial wolves attack! Since they are celestial, they will both be using Smite Evil on the orcs currently occupying their attention.

Wolf 1 Attack (vs O8): [roll0]
- Trip (only activates on successful attack): [roll1]
- Damage: [roll2]

Wolf 2 Attack (vs O7): [roll3]
- Trip (only activates on successful attack): [roll4]
- Damage: [roll5]

[BramsesII]

Kas

It takes Kas but a moment to locate Grangung's Ire and her trusty haversack. She grabs her sword and swings the haversack over her back. "They'd better have put all my stuff in here. ***" She rushes forward, trying to get closer to the battle where she can do most damage. It's only then that she notices the wolves. That's a lot of wolves. I wonder which ones are real and which ones aren't.

Standard action to put on gear, move action to get to N11

[Taya]

Natalie

As she "ends her summoning", she "commands her summons" to "attack" the "orc enemies", and take her chance to use Grease to make some of them fall.

Swift action to concentrate on the illusion wolves and forcing them all to try to attack and miss (this way they and the enemy do not actually interact and I don't have to roll to see if they disbelieve it yet)

Standard Action, Grease on P6-Q7:
Orc 2: [roll0]
Orc 4: [roll1]

[Othniel]

Saskia

Giving the knight - she was pretty sure he was a knight by now - a sidelong look as he pulled out his blade, Saskia mimicked his motions, withdrawing belt and sword and strapping it around her waist. The armour would have to wait until battle was over: it would take too long to pull on, even hastily. Finally secure with her prized possessions, she stepped aside to make room for the others and shot Koval a grin as he moved toward the struggling half-orc.

[Estralita]

Lukas

No time to think. Just react. Lukas had Reinarra's Sting, he had arrows, he had the high ground, and he had people to defend from a murderous aggressor. His duty was clear.

Lukas fired.

No more talk, time to fight.

Looks like Lukas can end up on the stairs , so that's where I'm putting him, I guess.

Attacking O7:

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Felhammer]

All attacks should be at -1.

O9 attacks IW in T7. Realizes it is an illusion
O7 attacks IW in S6. Realizes it is an illusion
O7 yells that all wolves are fake.
O7 believes the CW2 is fake, so attacks SE [roll0] // [roll1]
O8 does not agree because he is locked in mortal combat with a real wolf. He attacks CW1 [roll2] // [roll3]
O0 and O5 believe all wolves are fake, and so attack HP [roll4] // [roll5] -- [roll6] // [roll7]
O2 and O4 fail to stand up.
O1 pulls out a long bow and attacks LK. [roll8] // [roll9] + [roll10] Acid


Chaos ensues as the real and fake wolves manifest upon the battlefield! Some orcs hurl themselves against the illusory wolves, confidently declaring all canines to be a the lie born of eldritch trickery! Most agree, only those locked in a fight to the death try to fend off the real wolves! The orcs in the grease spell attempt to stand but - in comical fashion - slip and fall as they desperately try to defend themselves from the two wolves that are hounding them! The orc's leader stands at the back of the group. He draws a thick chitinous bow and knocks back an arrow that looks to be tipped with a scarab. He looses the arrow straight at Lukas!

With two mighty chops of their fashions, the High Priest is cut down! One of the orcs holds up the priest's severed head and roars with joy! Upon seeing this grim sight, the other orcs also roar thunderously!

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Close enough now to see the bloodshot desperation in the half-orc's eyes, Koval settled on a decision. Stepping forward, he brought the Blade of Ill Omen around in a keening arc, slicing through the thick rope like paper. The noose came free, but contrary to Koval's expectations the half-orc remained standing. Eyes widening in appreciation of the big man's poise, Koval offered the club in his off hand.

"We were both condemned to die here today. Stand with me in defense of those who scorned us, and I shall stand with you to protest the charge. So I swear, on my family's name."

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

The half-orc breaks his manacles and rips the limp noose off of his neck. His voice is deep, confident and even tempered, "I am an innocent man. Count Hammerlord is a liar! I will defend these people from the Orcs, if only so their gory deaths may attempt sooth my unbridled rage...

[Othniel]

Saskia

"BATHE IN THEIR BLOOD!" Saskia shouted, drawing her greatsword in one fluid motion. A sudden change came over her, and the tiefling's fingernails elongated into sharp claws, though she still held her blade. Then she charged.

Draw weapon. Bloodrage! Charge attack vs O6.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Confirm: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Estralita]

Lukas

With one more jump, Lukas was at the top of the gallows. Our of reach of melee, but the most obvious target for any other archer. Trying to ignore that, Lukas pulled his bowstring back, and fired again.

Move up to the top of the gallows.

And attack O7 again

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +5 | Status: Prayer, Bless

As the high priest fell to the axes and swords of the orcs, Hedwig felt conflicted. With the death of anyone that important, the community would suffer, provided they even made it through this. On the other hand, a more visceral, deep part of her felt joy at the death of the one who had just tried to kill them.

She shook her head.

I'm going to have to meditate on this in prayer later. For now, focus on helping the others.

Once more, Hedwig spread her arms, but did not dance. Again, her birthmark glowed, and again she chanted in the ancient language of magic.

"<BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO DEFEND OTHERS!>"

Hedwig casts Bless (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/b/bless/), giving all allies within 50 feet a +1 morale bonus to attack and saves against fear. The +1 bonus to attack stacks with the +1 luck bonus from Prayer, for a total of +2 to attack. This hits everyone on the map.

Prayer: 4/5 rounds.
Bless: 5/5 minutes.

The wolves continue their attack!

Wolf 1 Attack (vs O8): [roll0] + an effective 4 due to O8 being prone.
Damage: [roll1]

Wolf 2 Attack (vs O4): [roll2] - 2 for not actually flanking and +4 for prone.
Trip: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas winces when the orcs raise the high priest's head and his body falls to the ground. Seriously?
*** didn't deserve that. She grabs a potion out of her pack, handily pops off the cork with her thumb and downs the smelly, greenish liquid. Then, she moves a bit to the side to get into a good position to charge in.

Standard action to drink mutagen (+4 dex, +2 AC, -2 wis, 50 minutes)
Move action to J11

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie sweats in terror when the Orcs find out that her wolves are illusions, but takes a deep breath and keeps greasing the orcs.

Move 5ft diagonally, swift to concentrate on the wolves and standard to grease N7-O8 (sorry Axecutioner)

Orc 5: [roll0]
Orc 8: [roll1]
Orc 0: [roll2]
Axecutioner: [roll3]

[Felhammer]

O9 5 foots toward the crowd and butchers him some humans. Killing [roll0] People

O6 5 foots towards SK and attacks. [roll1] / [roll2], I will let you determine if it hits or not.

O0 attacks AE from prone. [roll3] / [roll4]

O5 attacks [roll5], 1 being the real wolf. [roll6] / [roll7]. Roll will, if he attacks an illusion [roll8]

O2, O8 and O3... Cannot reasonably stand up. They will take the full defense action.

O1 pulls out a long bow and attacks LK. [roll9] // [roll10] + [roll11] Acid


OP attacks O6. [roll12] / [roll13] + [roll14]


The orcs on the floor, cover their face and bodies, trying to avoid damage as they roll in the grease. Those orcs who are up, attack the nearest enemies... Save for two. The first is an orc warrior who leaves the wolves and attacks the panicked crowd! Next up is the Orc Leader who once again shoots Lukas!

[Othniel]

Saskia

"I'm going to paint the ground in your blood, orc!" Saskia shouted to the orc standing between her and the half-orc prisoner as she swung her blade down in an overhead chop.

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Confirm: Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Estralita]

Lukas

As the sounds of battle rang around Lukas, a few words rang out above. Praise of Almaharra and calls for aid. Lukas could feel their sincerity, and confidence. Is that what you want, my lady? I've never called out praise as I cast spells. I mean, I know I don't cast spells often. Perhaps I should-

An arrow whizzed past Lukas's ear, bringing him back to reality. Right, my lady. We can consider that later. he thought as he knocked back an arrow, and aimed it at the Orc who shot at him.

Rapid Shot Deadly Aim go!

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]
[roll3]

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

For a moment, Koval watched approvingly as the wrongly-accused man took the club from his hand and moved to engage the raiders. He even cracked a smile as the club struck at a particularly vulnerable area, before moving up alongside the unnamed prisoner to deal with the gobblorc on his flank. As the Blade of Ill Omen sped towards pirate flesh, Koval glanced over his shoulder at their new ally.

"You comport yourself well sir! Might I have your name?"

Koval moves and Power Attacks O9

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Crit Confirm: [roll2]
Crit Damage: [roll3]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +5 | Status: Prayer, Bless

Having expended all the spells she thought were (at the moment) useful, Hedwig took the time to survey the battlefield, and noted with some slight alarm that one of the orcs had broken away and started attacking the crowd - only for the white-haired half-elf to charge after him.

Ah, good. Everything is taken care of - now to retrieve my equipment.

With a firm grip on her (distressingly short) burlap skirt, Hedwig jumped off the platform, aiming to grab her equipment.

Hedwig will move to L15, then make a standard action to retrieve her gear.

Since Fel was asking about the modifiers on the wolves, here they are now.

Celestial Wolves Attack Mod: +2 (base) +2 (Augment Summoning) +1 (Bless) +1 (Prayer) = 6.
Damage: 1d6+1 (base) +2 (Augment Summoning) +1 (Prayer) +2 (Smite Evil) = +6
CMB: +2 (base) +2 (Augment Summoning) = +4

And now they attack!

Wolf 1 Attack (vs O8): [roll0] with an additional +2 for flanking and +4 for the orc being prone.
Damage: [roll1] +2 from Smite Evil

If this attack kills O8, Wolf 1 will then attack O1/O2/O5 as decided by this [roll2].

O8 is now dead, so Wolf 1 will next attempt to attack O5.

Wolf 2 Attack (vs O4): [roll3] with +4 for being prone.
Damage: [roll4] +2 from Smite Evil

Summon Monster III: 3/5 Rounds
Prayer: 3/5 Rounds
Bless: 4.8/5 Minutes

[Taya]

Natalie

Seeing our archer being "counter-arched" by the Orc Boss, Natalie decides to try and make things a little bit more unfair. For them. Time to keep greasing my orcs ( ͡o ͜ʖ ͡o)

Natalie 5 foots into Q11 and greases the Orc Boss' bow, while keeping the illusory wolves missing.
[roll0]

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas takes but a short moment to size up her target, an orc who is still on his feet struggling with some wolves, before charging with a vicious snarl. She brings down her falchion...

Swift action to study Orc 5
Charge on Orc 5 (w/ studied combat, power attack, charge, flanking, bless, prayer: +7 atk, +10 dmg)
Atk: [roll0]
Dmg: [roll1]
Atk: [roll2]
Dmg: [roll3]

... and with the help of various enchantments cleanly slices the orc in half. She yells out in orcish.

"HEY! *** ***! PICK ON SOMEONE YOUR OWN SIZE!"

[Felhammer]

The lead Orc's bow slips from his hand. In a fit of rage he stomps on the bow, breaking it in half. As he looks up, he watches with delight as the half-orc prisoners quickly beat down and slay his soldiers. "Orcs! Hear my call! We hail from Garakah's Tribe. You are clearly without peer. Garakah needs orcs like you, Orcs without fear, if her ambitions are to be realized. Join us! Join us, brother and sister! Take up arms! Fight these humans! They would slaughter you for no justifiable reason! Devils are tools and humans are liars! Join us! Find freedom in the Tribe! Find redemption! Find your purpose. These humans will never truly trust you! They will hate and revile you. Forever. Join us. Join us and claim your destiny!"

The two orcs who are not on their backs, attack the nearest enemies. Those on their backs, curl up trying to defend themselves as best they can.

All orcs take Total Defense action +4 AC except for O9 and O3.

O9 attacks KV. [roll0] / [roll1]

O3 attacks: [roll2] with a 1 being SE and a 2 being Cw2. [roll3] / [roll4].... Will save, if needed: [roll5]

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Wincing in pain as the orc's blade dodged his parry and bit into his side, Koval batted the blade away and thrusted towards the orc's heart.

"Your leader must have a high opinion of himself, to proselytize atop the bodies of children!"

Koval 5-foot steps to enable a flank before Power Attacking O9

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

Crit Confirm: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas narrows her eyes at the orc leader. "Oh shut it Chuckles the goatfaced ***! Like you'll treat us any better."

She plucks a small package out of her haversack and chucks it at the orc.

Swift action to study O1.
Move action to take tanglefoot bag out of her pack.
Standard action to throw it at O1 (w/ studied combat, bless, prayer, 2 range increments: +1 atk)
Attack: [roll0]
Reflex attack:[roll1]


It misses and harmlessly goes splat on the ground.

[Taya]

Natalie


"Orcs! Hear my call! We hail from Garakah's Tribe. You are clearly without peer. Garakah needs orcs like you, Orcs without fear, if her ambitions are to be realized. Join us! Join us, brother and sister! Take up arms! Fight these humans! They would slaughter you for no justifiable reason! Devils are tools and humans are liars! Join us! Find freedom in the Tribe! Find redemption! Find your purpose. These humans will never truly trust you! They will hate and revile you. Forever. Join us. Join us and claim your destiny!"

"You believe humans are the only ones who kill for no justifiable reason? You really believe you'll find true freedom in a Tribe that commands you to fight? How can you be free if you'll have no right for a safe life? What about your family? Are you ready to die in a meaningless fight and leave those you love behind? Are you really ready to succumb to a life of fights, with no means of peace of life and death? Are you really free fighting under the order of those who are ready to sacrifice your life for a cause you may or may not truly believe in? Don't fight back, don't join the fight, just run away! Run for your true freedom, run for SURVIVAL!"

Swift for to keep the Wolves "alive", and all of them are just gonna sit, no attacking, to give the Orcs a chance to run. Besides that, just talks.
Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Othniel]

Saskia

Saskia grinned when her target hit the ground. Then, eschewing a direct attack on the closest orc, she sped around the creature leaving an opening between her and the orc leader.

Double move, avoiding O3 just in case he somehow gets an AoO despite taking the Total Defense action.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +5 | Status: Prayer, Bless

Hoisting the bag containing her equipment over her shoulder, and brandishing her staff, Hedwig joined her voice with Natalie's.

"Look around you! Already several have fallen! It's not too late to surrender,
to stop fighting! Stop now and you can live!"

Hedwig will Aid Another on Diplomacy, a check which she auto-succeeds to give Natalie a total of 32.

The wolves continue to attack, as is their wont.

Wolf 1 Attack (vs O8): [roll0] (The bonuses from prone and total defense are accounted for.)
Damage: [roll1]

Wolf 2 Attack (vs O4): [roll2] (Same here.)
Damage: [roll3]

Summon Monster III: 2/5 Rounds
Prayer: 2/5 Rounds
Bless: 4.7/5 Minutes

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas drew back his bowstring and as about to fire when the other divinely blessed started to speak, offering a chance to run or surrender. While the Orc Leader's offer seemed petty and self-serving, the ladies of Almaharra seemed sincere in their offers. Even a number of the orcs stopped fighting back. Was it right to kill them now, when they weren't fighting back?

Then Lukas hear the sound of one of the remaining scuffles, and turned, seeing one of his fellow prisoners skewer an orc warrior. Behind him, Lukas saw the bodies of the unarmed civilians, what was left of them. His grip tightened on his bow.

No surrender. No running away. They need to pay for what they've done.

Inward, Lukas focused his righteous fury on the one responsible for it all. The Orc in charge who called out humans for slaughter while directing this. Lukas fired his shot.

Swift Action to declare Smite Evil on the Orc Leader, then attack.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Felhammer]

The Orc Leader coos with delight... Until his offer is rebuked and many of his men died gruesome ends. His whole demeanor transforms from a confident, collected warrior to that of a raging barbarian. He screams, "NO ONE REFUSES ME!" He rips a bead off his necklace and chucks it at the gallows. An instant later a massive whirlwind of fire explodes, engulfing everyone near by. Over the thunderous ring of the inferno's birth, the party can only hear the chortles of glee emanating from the Orc Leader.

If they orcs live, they use the total defense action again.

LK [roll0]
LT [roll1]
HW [roll2]
MK [roll3]
NT [roll4]
SE [roll5]
AE [roll6]
O8 [roll7]
O2 [roll8]
O4 [roll9]
O0 [roll10]

Lady Torka cries out in anguish as the flames engulf her. She falls atop the now burning gallows...

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas growls when the flames rush over her, but she manages to avoid being seriously injured. She yells out in orcish with a vile grin.

"HEY! Giant-jerking, pixie-loving ***! I'm going to tear your arse out through your esophagus! Scoop your *** skull out with your scapula and feed you your own pancreas on a platter made of ribs. Your ribs. Best say your prayers now, ***!

Then, she takes a few steps back to ready herself for a jumping charge over the grease.

Standard action to demoralize (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/skills/intimidate) Orc 1. The DC is 10+his HD+his WIS modifier. If I hit the DC he's shaken (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/conditions#TOC-Shaken). ((I don't think there's a column for this in the document, right?))
Intimidate (w/ inspiration): [roll0]+[roll1]
Move action to O11

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie is engulfed by the flames for a moment, which scares the hell out of her. But just when she thought she would regain composure...


Kas
"HEY! Giant-jerking, pixie-loving ***! I'm going to tear your arse out through your esophagus! Scoop your *** skull out with your scapula and feed you your own pancreas on a platter made of ribs. Your ribs. Best say your prayers now, ***!
She feels demoralized and afraid of the Tiefling.

However, after taking a deep breath, Natalie realises the Orc leader is still a treat even without his bow. She sighs, as she thought she would not have to use more spells for now. But the world seemed to have other plans for her.

Swift, the wolves. This time, as most Orcs are probably dead, she "commands" them to circle the Orc Leader. They will be circling him in movement, as also a way to confuse it, attacking in periodicity to make it even more confused, not knowing where to defend.

Standard action, Glitterdust.
[roll0]
After commanding her wolves to circle the Leader, Natalie tries to look for the cleric who summoned the other two wolves. Maybe she would command them to do the same? ... If they are alive?

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +5 | Status: Prayer, Bless

Gritting her teeeth against the onslaught of fire, Hedwig gasped in horror as Lady Tokra fell to the flames.

It was bad enough that the High Priest fell, but we cannot let Lady Tokra die!

Immediately, she focused intently, gathering healing energy in her birthmark...

And then, with a war cry, releasing it in a burst of light, mending the wounds of those around her.

Hedwig will Channel Energy, healing everyone within 30 feet of her for [roll0] HP.

The wolves attack one last time before they dissipate.

Wolf 1 (vs O1): [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Wolf 2 (vs O3): [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

Channel Energy: 4/5 per day
Summon Monster III: 1/5 Rounds
Prayer: 1/5 Rounds
Bless: 4.6/5 Minutes
Having taken care of immediate matters, her ears then turned to Kas' tirade against the orc leader.

For once I'm glad I don't understand Orcish.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

The blast of fire forced Koval back a step, his eyes closing to the blistering heat even as it flared away from him. When he opened them again, he could only stare in mute horror at the devastation wrought by the leader of the raiding party, his willingness to sacrifice his own people in a fit of pique. Any sympathy Koval had for the invaders withered in him, and he fixed his gaze firmly on the blinded raider. Something stirred in the back of his mind, and he pulled at it. The memories of battles long past suffused him, the bloodlust of his ancestors lightning in his veins, and when he moved it was with a speed beyond mortal men.

Koval spends two points of Mental Focus to activate Quickness. He is Hasted for 5 rounds, but the bonus to AC and Reflex Defense are +2 rather than +1. He then moves into a flank on O1, provoking if the goblorc is not Blind.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"My blade hungers for more!" Saskia growled. A feral gleam came into her eyes as she charged the orc leader.

CHAAAARGE: [roll0] (includes bonuses for flanking and charging as well as bless and prayer). Orc Leader dude should have -2 ac and loses whatever dex bonus he may have for being blind (assuming he failed his save).

Damage: [roll1]
Confirm: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas wasn't expecting that. He killed his own people, same as ours...

To make things worse, the gallows were on fire. Lukas glanced behind him to see if the girl was safe, only to see to his horror, that she was unconcious. Just managing to avoid tossing his bow aside, Lukas rushes to her, scoops her up, and tries to hop off.

Any rolls needed?

[Felhammer]

Lukas grabs the fallen noble and leaps off the burning gallows with both ease and poise.

Suddenly, fifteen soldiers, each clad in the colors of Starg (black tabards emblazoned with a white moon and an orange stag's head) come chargining in. They are lead by a half-elf you recognize as Commander Enhjornbrecht Rangerson. Each of the soldiers's clothing and faces are stained with both mud and orc blood. The blood is so thick on their swords that you can barely see the metal underneath.

The Commander points his sword at Lukas, "Put. Her. Down."

The soldiers rush around the battlefield, pointing their swords at each of the prisoners-turned-defenders.

A Imperial priest comes rushing up. He coddles the poor girl his his arms as he quietly prays to Sonbahar.

The Commander waltzes his way across the town square looking over what has happened. He carefully steps around the pile of greasy corpses. "Interesting. What compelled you to take up arms and defend the town?"

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

As the soldiers flooded into the square, Koval lowered his sword. Watching the blood ebb from the dying goblorc, he cursed the waste, the loss of what he might have known of Garakah and her plans. All lost, now, as Starg's luminaries continued to prove themselves blunt instruments. His eyes narrowed as the ranger leveled a sword at the man who had been most willing to lay down his life for their accusers, and Koval's grip on his blade did not slacken. Stepping past the soldiers nearby without a glance, he addressed the commander.

"Is a knight not sworn to take up the defense of the helpless? Forces unknown may seek to sully our names, but justice ever prevails."

He gestured towards the fallen noblewoman in the priest's arms.

"The Princess freed us from our bonds before the goblorcs arrived. She claimed our coming had been prophesied. Fate, it seems, enjoys its cruel jests."

Glancing back at the fallen goblorc leader, he gestured at the warrior's neck.

"That one set the gallows ablaze. It was the explosion that rendered the Lady Torka insensate. Something about the creature's neck, I believe."

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas lowers her blade when confronted by the soldiers. She's about to say something rude when Koval speaks up, making her reconsider. Instead, her comment is a simple "what he said."

[Lord Of Mantas]

http://i.imgur.com/WFHi8IN.png
Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: Bless

As the tiefling killed the orc leader, and the lone human among them leapt down with Lady Torka, Hedwig's heart lightened considerably.

We've done it.

And then Commander Rangerson showed up, at which point things grew considerably more tense once again.

"Interesting. What compelled you to take up arms and defend the town?"

After Koval had given his reply, Hedwig also spoke.

"I am a nun in the service of Almahara. Our creed is to aid those who cannot help themselves, to defend that which is right and good. But even if I were not sworn, I still would have, because one cannot simply stand by and do nothing in a situation like this."

She cleared her throat, a touch embarrassed.

Maybe I was a bit too cheesy at the end there.

Indicating Koval with her head, she continued, "It is as he said. When the attack started, Lady Torka clutched her head, as if in pain. Then, she claimed that she had seen us in her dreams, and asked if we would pledge ourselves to Starg's defense. We answered the call, and she freed us."

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Consider yourself refused, jackass!" Saskia spat on the dying orc leader. "**** you and the ship you sailed in on." As the orc leader expired, the tiefling bloodrager lowered her greatsword and wiped the weapon clean upon her foe's clothing; then she stuck the blade down and leaned upon the hilt, breathing somewhat heavily as her rage left her. She watched idly as more troops filed in. "Better late than never, I suppose," she muttered to Koval, flashing him a quick grin. "Betcha they're angry we did their job for them. Outta give us a fat purse of gold for the trouble, but I reckon we'll still be lucky to get out of town alive, what with the way His Holiness treated us," she added with a sneer. Saskia left most of the talking to the others, and settled on fixing the commander with a suggestive smile.

End rage, fatigued for 8 rounds after. 4 rounds used.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas barely had time to feel relief at their having escaped the collapsing gallows before he was surrounded by angry, sword wielding soldiers. But there really wasn't time to assess. Not while Lady Torka still lay limply in his arms, and there was nothing much more he could do about it. "She needs a healer. Or something similar. Please." he stammered out

[Felhammer]

https://s2.postimg.org/hunj22cy1/Commander.png

The Commander nods at Koval, "You proved yourselves loyal to the Tiara, that much is sure. I would be willing to grant you a temporary reprieve, until we can confirm with the Princess about the bargain she offered you." The Ranger leans over the corpse of the High Priest, "It is a shame he died. He could have compelled the spirit of the orc to answer a few questions. Such as whether the orcs and the goblorcs were in an alliance or whether their simultaneous attacks were mere coincidence. Like why the orcs were attacking in the first place. Like why they attacked today, of all days."

He stands up and brushes himself off. He walks back to the Priest and the Princess. He gently brushes her hair from her face. "The Princess is fragile. She possesses a deep connection with Sonbahar. That connection gifts her with great power but also..." He glances over at Hedwig as he says, "Comes with its own challenges."

He glares at Saskia. "Restrain the tiefling. It is still manic from the battle." Four armed guard rush over and surround Saskia, with swords drawn.

He orders two men to retrieve the orc's necklace. The Ranger studies it for a moments, rolling it between his fingers, eying the last remaining gem quite closely. He then says, "Insectoid iconography is not normal for Cloudheart. There was an ancient tribe of elves that used similar designs. I believe the nearest ruin is in Dilindor, over in Windshire. Interesting. Most interesting..."


https://s2.postimg.org/s8jrhk8ax/Lady_Torka.png

He is interrupted by the Princess who slowly rouses herself from her slumber. She blinks a few times then looks around while still laying down. "What.... Happened...?"

The Commander bows graciously, "You had... An episode."

"Another one?"

Indeed..."

The girl stands up and walks over to Luke. "I could see you. Thank you for rescuing me, sir knight. I officially pardon you from the crime of summoning a terrible devil whose sole goal is to conquer our beloved Queendom and rule as a tyrannical King. Since you caused this mess, sir knight, I order you to rectify your transgression. You must kill the devil." Her tone is one of sheer, unadulterated, childlike matter-of-factness. It stuns everyone in the town square, even Commander Enhjornbrecht Rangerson is taken aback by the girl's straightforwardness.

"I..."

"IT. Is decided, Commander. Sir Lukas will find the devil and slay it. He will be aided by his companions..."

"Except the male Orc. His crimes were unrelated to the devil summoning."

"Very well, except for Pango the Half-Orc.

"One, two, thr... Six companions," Counts Rangerson, "Six companions to slay the devil. If they succeed, the five left who were not pardoned will be officially pardoned. If they fail, then well, they'll be dead. So either way, the miscarriage of justice will be righted. "


"Exactly. Perfectly equitable and right." The Princess then skips around the town square patting every companion and soldier on the back - except Saskia - telling them they did a good job and that their names will be mentioned at court.


https://s27.postimg.org/56zd1y0cj/Pango.png

[Othniel]

Saskia

"I am not manic! I am in a perfectly reasonable state of mind, thank you very much." Saskia's smile slipped to a glare, though she was wise enough not to make any sudden movements with the ring of guards suddenly surrounding her. "Easy boys; I'm not your enemy here, and I don't bite. Well, maybe a little." She showed them her teeth. "What about unnamed orc number whatever over there?" She asked, changing the subject and pointing to the remaining orc belligerent.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

the half-elf knight's face remained impassive as the princess and the captain conducted their little drama, but inside he seethed. It seemed their false imprisonment remained a sword at their necks, doom only lifted so long as they satisfied a child's fantasy of justice. Alas, for the moment it could not be helped. Reaching through the ring of soldiers, he grasped Saskia's shoulder momentarily, his black eyes meeting hers in a look of conciliation. Patience, the gaze said, patience even in the face of these manifold insults. The gaze lasted but a few moments, before he turned back and approached the Ranger.

"Captain, if you will allow me, I may be able to shed more light on that object. All things bear echoes of their past, and something with so dark a purpose must carry an equally dark tale."

Before he received a response, Koval pivoted to the Lady Torka.

"My Lady, that you still consider us guilty has not escaped my notice. I will accompany the warrior of Reinarra, but not to absolve my sins. Rather, I shall hunt down this beast both for the good of Grimgorge and to prove us innocent entire. I ask that you forestall sentence on Pango until we return or are confirmed to have fallen. His accuser is the same as ours, after all."

If Captain Rangerson lets Koval hold the amulet, he'll spend a minute using his Object Reading on it. The pertinent rules:

At 2nd level, an occultist learns how to read information from items he examines. Examining an item in this way requires him to spend 1 minute handling the item. If the item is a magic item, the occultist learns its properties and command word as if he had successfully examined the item using detect magic and succeeded at a Spellcraft check. This ability does not reveal whether the item is cursed unless the occultist’s class level is equal to or greater than the caster level of the item. If the item has any historical significance, the occultist learns one piece of information about its past (as determined by the GM). Finally, if the item was last used no longer than 1 day ago per the occultist’s class level, the occultist learns one piece of information about the last creature to use the item. This information might be a glimpse of the creature’s appearance, a brief vision of what it saw while using the item, or perhaps its emotional state when it last used the item. The GM determines what information is gained in this way. This functions like the psychometry occult skill unlock (see page 196), but doesn’t require a skill check and can be used at will.

Also, Diplomacy on the Princess: [roll0]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +4 | Status: Bless

Hedwig watched the events that unfolded intently, a myriad of emotions making their way through her.

At the commander relaxing at Koval's story, she felt relief.

At Lady Torka's thanking of Lukas, Hedwig felt a mixture of envy and discomfort - envy, at Lukas being thanked (I helped heal you, too!) and discomfort at the certainty that the princess felt that, despite everything, she was still certain that they had all summoned the devil.

And then joy at the fact that, in the end, they all had a chance to permanently clear themselves - or at least obtain a pardon.

Now relaxed, Hedwig took a look around, measuring up the other five.

Well, this certainly won't be boring, at least.

As Koval petitioned Lady Torka to forestall sentencing on Pango, Hedwig also spoke up.

"If nothing else, milady, do consider that he also took up arms against the orcs. If, after everything, he still fought against them, I believe that merits some degree of clemency."

Making my own separate diplomacy check for Lady Torka.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Felhammer]

The commander hands the necklace to Koval before interjecting in the conversation on the other side of the square, "Mister Pango assaulted a nobleman and gouged out the man's eye. Mister Pango was sentenced to die..."

The Princess walks up to Hedwig and asks, "You are a nun, yes? Almahara says that we should help those in need, correct? Well he is in need. So are we. We need to know more about these Orcs and why they attacked. Bring me the information I seek and I will commute Pango's death sentence to seven years’ service in the navy."

She looks over at Pango as she comments, "Baron Hammerlord is one of the most powerful nobles in Moondale. It is the best I can do."

It is a Necklace of Elemental Might. It works as a Necklace of Fireballs except the beads can deal Fire, Cold, Electricity or Acid damage. Each damage type includes an environmental effect (fire sets combustible objects aflame, cold will create giant icy stalagmites, acid will make a large pool of acid and electricity will create a small lightning storm).

The last bead is Cold/Ice. The bead is shaped like a beetle and is colored sky blue.

You focus on the item and learn two things:

1. You see a vision of a Priest who wielded the item. He is standing before a tall tower that has a crimson phoenix statue at its apex. There is a burning altar before the priest. The priest manipulates the flame, as a normal person would shape sand at the beach. He creates symbols and letters with the fire. You recognize the letters he is creating; they are of the Old Blackvalian script. They spell: V-E-L-A. The vision ends at that point.

2. The Orc's name was Murag Barobag.

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie watches the events unfolds, static in despair as she does not know what to say. When she muster courage to say something, she is interrupted by the others. So, she slowly, without making actual efforts of staying hidden, goes towards the chest with her equipment, seeing as the officials seemed to have allowed them to live, they should have no qualms with her wanting her stuff back.

If no one complains, she starts putting her stuff on, which includes her Hat of Disguise. Then, she uses it to turn into Hedwig, child version (or what she thinks Hedwig would look as a child) and moves towards her.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas quietly considered the new situation he, as well as the others, were in, trying to not feel ungrateful. He was alive, an officially pardoned, his new allies had a chance at life as well, and they had managed to defeat the enemy, saving the innocent people around them, including the lady that had freed them.

It was just...

Being ordered to fight this devil, it just seemed wrong. He certainly didn't need to be ordered to fight a devil, it was his job, but his didn't like being given orders like this. He was a paladin of Reinarra, beholden to her alone. And what about the others? Lukas hadn't missed the guards treating the Tielfing woman like a rabid dog who might attack at any moment. And seeing the others have their freedom be contingent on their success defeating it, They all helped to fight the orcs off; he just happened to be in the right place to help the lady. And it wasn't only him-

That thought stopped Lukas's racing thoughts in their tracks. "I am deeply grateful for your kindness, Lady Torka, but the truth is, all I did was get you off the gallows. It was this fine Lady of Almahara who healed your injuries caused by the attack."

Let's try some Diplomacy, see if we can wrangle something for Hedwig.

[roll0]

And while we're at it, let's see if we can get any more info about our accuser with a Knowledge (Nobility) check:

[roll1]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +4 | Status: Bless

Even if you are not pardoning him entirely, mandatory military service is a considerable improvement over being drawn and quartered.

Inclining her head in respect, Hedwig said, "I - we shall not fail you, my lady."

Hedwig then went to turn her attention toward Koval, curious as to what he might divine - only to be interrupted as Lukas pointed out her role in healing the princess. A slight blush took her face as she looked to him in gratitude - a look that was then interrupted by utter confusion as Natalie approached. She turned her attention to the now-disguised gnome.

"How - sorry, why are you?.."

[Taya]

Natalie

As a child scared of other adults, Natalie hides behind Hedwig, picking the cloth in her leg with her small hands. She looks up to Hedwig, and in a very low voice, almost whispering, she says "Thank you for healing my wounds..."

[BramsesII]

Kas

Of course. The human gets a full pardon. And the orc gets the axe. Unless we do something about it. Real generous. Kas grumbles when the princess comes around to pat her on the back, having to restrain herself from full-on growling at the girl. She makes her way over to Saskia and the ring of guards surrounding her, putting her falchion in a scabbard and fastening it to her back on the way there.

"Hey, can't you see she's on our side? Let her go, she's obviously not going to attack anyone." The half-orc looks at Saskia, then at one of the guards surrounding her. "Besides, we just got roped into killing a devil. We're going to need all our energy, not going to waste it on a fight here."

She extends a hand to Saskia - or not, if the guards do not disperse. "Well fought. I guess we'll be fighting together more often now." Following that, she walks over to Koval, then Lukas, then Pango, to do the same. "Well fought. Wish we could do more for you mister Pango, but gouging out eyes is never a good idea."

Finally, she steps up to Hedwig and Natalie (who is suddenly a human child). The threatening frown is still on her face, and the tone of her voice is still as grim as ever. She extends a hand to Hedwig first, then to the child. "Thanks for the spells there, miss nun. And you..." She points at the child (gnome). "Two things. One: Apologies for shouting at you the other day. Two: Impressive show with the spells. Clever thinking." There's a small hint of a smile on Kas' face. And she winks.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Yeah, what she said! On your side." Saskia nodded vigorously. "I did kill what's-his-face the orc miscreant over there for you, you know. A heartfelt "Thank you, Saskia" wouldn't go amiss, but I'd settle for not being stabbed, sliced, beheaded, hanged, drawn, quartered, or some other fanciful way of being executed, thanks very much."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +4 | Status: Bless

As Kas and Natalie thanked her for the healing, Hedwig smiled. "You are both most welcome. And your illusions were truly a master work."

That said, I'm slightly disappointed you're not the master summoner I hoped you were. It would have been nice to get some advice and tips.

"Although," she addressed Natalie specifically, cocking her head to the side. "I will confess I am somewhat confused as to why you have emulated a child version of me... I wore my hair in braids back then, by the way."

She finally turned to Koval.

"Is there anything you can discern? If so, we should retire someplace a bit more secluded and begin discussing our first step."

I would also like a reasonably private place to change. I am not so daring as to change out of only a burlap dress into my habit in the middle of the town square.

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie hides from Kas behinds Hedwigs legs, whispering "Thank you..." to both while smiling. Then, Hedwig turns and talks to her about being confused. She lowers her head in shame, looking up with her eyes in almost a "puppy eyes" kind of way. "Are you mad...?" She says, changing her voice.

I'll roll to try and see how good my "child Hedwig" guess is, and also to see if I can nail how her voice would be as a child. Just for entertainment purposes :P
[roll0]
[roll1]

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Amulet in hand, Koval began muttering under his breath. Twisting the insectoid chain to catch the light, Koval's hand was covered in the drawling, warping shadow of the thing. Indeed, it seemed almost that the shadows began to come alive, rising up to caress the grooves and contours of the amulet, gleaming metal dancing with queer shadows in the breeze. The muttering rose to a crescendo, and as he finished Koval's eyes flashed a glittering blue, only for him to shut his lids tightly and lower the chain with a slow breath. When his eyes opened, they were black once again.

"The orc's name was Murag Barobag. I know not how he came to possess this Necklace of Elemental Might, but I have seen whence it came. A priest before a burning altar, standing beneath a tall tower crowned with a statue of a crimson phoenix. The fire answered his command, twining into letters in the script of Old Blackvale. I saw the fire form the figures V-E-L-A, and the vision ended. I know not if there was more to follow."

He handed the necklace back to the ranger commander.

"Have a care with this, Commaner Rangerson. The last gem is of frost, and its explosion would no doubt prove fatal to the common man. Lady Torka..."

He turned to the princess.

"You have my thanks for sparing this man. Rest assured, you will not regret this small mercy."

The most pressing matter tended to, Koval finally winced as the wound at his side pulsed again, sending a small stream of blood flowing down his side. Pressing his free hand against it in an attempt to staunch the wound, he looked towards Hedwig.

"You are a nun in the service of Almahara, sister? Might I request your attentions? Absent my armor, it seems my defense was not peerless."

Waiting for a reply, his attention returned to the ranger.

"If we are to hunt down this fiend, we will have need of a trail. What of the room where we were framed for conducting the ritual? Has it been purged, or might some clue remain?"

At the end of his minute of Object Reading, Koval triggers his aura sight on the ranger commander, princess, and as much of the party as possible.

At 5th level, the occultist can read the auras of creatures around him as a standard action. This functions as the aura sight (http://www.archivesofnethys.com/SpellDisplay.aspx?ItemName=Aura%20Sight) spell with a duration of 1 round.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +4 | Status: Bless


"Are you mad...?"
Hedwig laughed, softly. "Mad? No. Perplexed, maybe. And your impression is off by a few... well, it's not important right now. We can discuss this later."


"You are a nun in the service of Almahara, sister? Might I request your attentions? Absent my armor, it seems my defense was not peerless."
Hedwig nodded. "By all means. Allow me."

Taking her bundle of possessions, Hedwig produced a small, ivory wand, and, tapping it gently against Koval, spoke the magic words to activate it.

<Mend this wound!>

Then, spotting that Natalie was also sporting some only half-healed wounds, she turned around and repeated the process on the gnome.

Hedwig uses a wand of Cure Light Wounds,
healing Koval for [roll0] HP.

If the above number < 4, Hedwig will burn one more charge to heal another [roll1] HP.

Natalie is then healed for 11 HP, as rolled in the OOC.

[Taya]

Natalie

The Aasimar child smiles lovingly at Hedwig as she says that she is not mad. "Then it's all right!" she says, excited. The nun then crouched to heal Natalie's wounds, which makes her smile even bigger, and after that, the child holds Hedwig's hand.

[Felhammer]

Commander: Lawful
Princess: Lawful, Good
Whatever the party members are ;)

The Princess gives a faint smile to Hedwig after being told of her contribution to the the Princess' safety by Lukas In an ambivalent tone, she says, "Thank you for your service to the Tiara."

"I will leave you to your investigation," says the Commander as he walks over to the Princess. With a knowing nod, the two venture off to the docks. The fifteen soldiers grudgingly go along. Two of them shoulder check Saskia before running to catch up with the Commander.

One of the soldiers who shoulder checks you, whispers, "Don't think we're done yet, you devil-tailed freak. You best not come back here... Or else..."

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Right then, nice talking to you, creep." Saskia waited until the guards were out of earshot, and then muttered just loud enough for the other former prisoners to hear. She turned to the others and shrugged. "And people think I'm disagreeable. C'mon, let's grab our stuff and get out of this place. I've got the hungries!" Saskia flounced over to the chest and started digging around for her stuff. As she went through the contents, a pile of others' belongings steadily grew next to it until she was satisfied that she'd recovered all of her possessions. "Going to need to find a place to change as well; I don't know about you folks, but I don't feel like hiking all over the countryside with my tail hanging out of a burlap sack, even if it does accentuate my figure."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 12 | Attack Bonus: +4 | Status: Bless

"I heartily agree with you in that regard." Hedwig said emphatically. "The sooner I can reclaim my modesty, the better. Bad enough to be seen like this, without my robes, but to have this thing itch so badly as well."

Honestly, I'm surprised the gnome had the daring to change out in the open... not that anyone seemed to notice. Perhaps having a small stature has advantages.

"In any case, there has to be an inn nearby that will let us make use of a room for a few minutes to change. And I don't know about you all, but after nearly getting hanged to death, disemboweled, and cut into four separate pieces, I am not ashamed to admit that I could use a couple of nice, stiff, drinks."

She then widened her eyes as she realized how this might seem, and waved her hands.

"N-not to the point of drunkenness! J-just to take the edge off."

Way to represent the monastery, Hedwig.

Taking her items, Hedwig then began looking for any nearby public houses the party could duck into.

As described above, Hedwig will look for an inn where the party can duck in, get changed, and have lunch. She will pay whatever price the innkeeper charges for a room, within reason. In my head, Hedwig has been to Starg a few times before to deliver the beer her monastery produces, so hopefully, either by experience or simply asking a passerby, she should be able to find one without too much difficulty.


*** Later, after the party has found an appropriate place to change... ***

Doing up the final buckle on her boot, Hedwig cricked her arm and neck before giving a little twirl. There was simply no denying the sheer pleasure of being able to don her official vestments once again, to say nothing of the sensation of actually having some trousers on. Leaving the room the party had rented for changing, Hedwig made her way back to the table they were sitting at, the party getting a good look at her for the very first time.

Having discarded the rough, burlap sack that had been made into an impromptu prisoner's uniform, Hedwig was now dressed in what were clearly a nun's vestments; a pure white long-sleeved robe and scapular, each with golden suns emblazoned upon them, over a pair of sturdy white woolen trousers and heavy-duty leather boots, and a veil atop her head. Around her waist, a sturdy belt was cinched, and to it were attached a small leather pouch, a utility knife, and a holy book decorated with Almahara's holy symbol - the sun. Peeking out from under the robe, the party could spot the edges of a breastplate, shining with a silver-white sheen - the telltale appearance of mithril.

Taking a seat, Hedwig waited until the entire party was once again decent and present at the table before clearing her throat.

"Now that we are all properly attired, if we are going to be working together, we should know each other's names. I am Sister Hedwig Gotlinde, of the Convent of the Sun's Open Palm, but you can simply call me either Hedwig or Sister."

[BramsesII]

Kas

"Changing's a good idea. Accentuated figures or not, can't go out investigating like this. People will talk. Gotta get some proper clothes on and prepare a few things if we're going to do the investigation thing." Kas ignores the comment about stiff drinks. Yeah, that's not a good idea.


***

On the way to finding an inn, Kas walks up beside Koval. "What were you saying about that necklace again?"

Rolling knowledge to see if Koval's story around the necklace rings any bells. With inspiration since Kas is trained in all knowledges.
Knowledges:
(History) [roll0] + [roll1] =15
(Local) [roll2] + [roll3] = 20
(Planes) [roll4] + [roll5] = 31
(Religion) [roll6] + [roll7] = 20


***


Measure.
Two spoonfuls.
Pour.
Add plenty water.
Cork. Shake. Bubble bubble bubble.

Quite a sizeable portion of the table has been confiscated by the half-orc's equipment. No longer wearing burlap, Kas is now clad in a sturdy chain shirt with a sort-of patchwork fur cloak over it. There's a necklace with teeth of all shapes and sizes around her neck. A thin headband is tied around her head and her black hair is cut short. This is definitely not a half-orc who shies away from stereotypes.

And yet she's preparing something; measuring, pouring, shaking, stirring. Potions, presumably. Occasionally she looks up from her work when people are talking. "I'm Kas. Full name's Zivkasha but nobody ever calls me that."


Measure.
Three spoonfuls.
Pour.
Add just a tiny bit of acid. Plenty water.
Stir vigorously. Cork.

"I hit things with my sword."

[Felhammer]

The nearest tavern is called the Bloody Dagger. It was named in honor of the Tavern's owner who slew three rampaging wolves with a single blade, which now is rests on the wall above the bar. The tavern is a stately two story building with a variety of rooms of various sizes for rent. The main hall is open with lots of seating. The innkeeper is a young male human named Nirecht Farmerson. He was once an adventurer, but retired to marry and raise a family. The menu today is themed for the Execution Day festivities. They include "beheaded" whitefish, horse shaped cookies, and red-colored milk.

Nirecht greets the party warmly, "Hey... You were the guys who summoned a devil, then got pardoned, right? Good job on saving the Princess! You guys can have a free meal, on me!"

Inside the Tavern, you find an assortment of commoners, including a halfling servant; an unruly looking human man who is fondling an orange cat; an Imperial Dwarf with copper-colored hair, he is dressed in the clothes of a deacon; a half-elf with lustful eyes and the flower-symbol of Reinarra tattooed on her forehead; an astute looking gnome scholar studying a scroll in the corner; and a human woman with about ten belt pouches tied to her belt.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Lifting his hand to allow Hedwig to do her work, Koval watched impassively as his flesh knit together into a new scar. Taking up one end of the burlap tunic, he wiped the fresh blood from his hand and nodded to the nun.

"My thanks, sister."

He glanced down at the disguised gnome, a single white eyebrow arched upwards.

"I do not begrudge your wish for anonymity, gnome, but if we are to come to trust each other I would look in your true eyes. There have been enough deceptions today."

Turning away before Natalie could respond, Koval moved towards the chest with their valuables. Heedless to the nun's call for a room and privacy, he stripped the bloodstained sackcloth away as he went, keeping hold of it only long enough to scour away the last traces of his wound. Naked by the time he began the search for his belongings, he slowly retrieved his traveling garb. Cotton braies and shift covered the goose-pimples on his white skin, followed by thick, fur trimmed leathers. The transformation was striking, as white was covered by weathered black, leaving Koval's face and hands the only hint to his strange ancestry. Only when he was clothed did Koval turn his attention to the remainder of his panoply, but the distinctive contours of his armor made it easy to discern from the belongings of the rabble. The last thing he retrieved was a small pack, into which he packed the disparate plates before standing, helm in hand.

"An inn is a fine plan."



Seated at the inn with a tankard in hand, Koval should have relaxed. However, while he had returned his sword to its scabbard it did not leave his lap, and his fingers drummed methodically atop the helm he had placed upright on the table. At Kas' question, he tore his attention from the surrounding patrons and flicked a glance over her strange apparatus.

"The amulet was old, or was at least used by those who used the old tongue. Of course, that does not tell us much. The orc or one of his brethren could easily have dragged it from a ruin or stolen it from an unlucky merchant. But a more distressing possibility exists, that they have the backing of whatever the crimson phoenix represents. What's more, my visions rarely come without cause - I fear that this V-E-L-A may have an importance beyond our understanding."

As the group began to make introductions, Koval stood with a courtly flourish ill suited to their humble surroundings.

"I am Sir Koval Meregost, called Sablelord in these lands."

[Felhammer]

You know the following about Vela:
Vela is the god of fire and is symbolized by the wondrous phoenix. Where most would assume the primal god of fire to be a maleficent deity of destruction, Vela abhors the raw destructive power of his element but recognizes it is in fact a necessary evil. Through the flame, new life can emerge, life that can one day become as great and as wondrous as that which was destroyed by the fire. His followers do not abuse the flame and are instead tasked with hunting those who recklessly misuse fire for destructive and violent purposes.

The Imperial Church holds that the four elemental "gods" are not gods but super powerful elementals. The Imperial Gods created the Elemental Monarchs to guard and manage the four elemental planes. Official creed says that the Elemental Monarchs are just powerful stewards, no different than a King on the material plane. You are not to worship them in any way (just as one would not worship a King).

You know that there are two well known Shrines dedicated to Vela in Moondale, one is in Hammerglen (west of Starg) and the other in Windshire (north-east of Starg). Count Hammerlord (Count of Hammerglen) is an ardent worshiper of the Imperial Pantheon and so often sends his men out to harass and or arrest worshipers who congregate at the shrine. Baron Windlord is old and doesn't much care if people worship at the shrine, so long as they don't cause a ruckus or draw the attention of the Church.

Vela is the Lord of the Flame and believed to live with in the Elemental Plane of Fire. He is believed to be the most powerful being on the plane and is worshiped as a god by the fire elementals (and many on the material plane).

Vela has long been worshiped through out time, by a variety of cultures, including the peoples of Cloudheart, most especially by the Elves who were once native to the land but were slaughtered by Giants as they moved into the region many thousands of years ago. All four gods were worshiped (Vela, Tigleg, Yuzu and Zurgara). Vela maintained the largest following. One of their principal temples in Moondale was Dilindor, which is located in the foothills of the Snowwall Mountains in what is now Windshire.

[Othniel]

Saskia

The Tiefling gave an appreciative whistle and an appraising look when Koval stripped off his sackcloth, but she quickly turned away with a smile. "That'll do for the show; and now for dinner," she joked.

Waiting until she had some semblance of modesty - even she didn't prefer to change out in the open in front of the gods and everyone else - Saskia finally shed the burlap abomination that had been her "clothing" for several days and pulled on her sturdy traveling clothes, buckled on her breastplate, and replaced all of her weapons and gear about her person. Then she joined the others in the tavern's common room. "A free meal sounds lovely, honorable proprietor!" Saskia was in much better spirits now. She had her stuff back, was still alive, and had a free meal. She tried to ignore the part about going devil-hunting. "That bit about devil-summoning was a mix-up, however." It bothered her that she couldn't remember what had brought her to be found next to these strangers and lying unconscious next to a summoning circle, but she knew to the depths of her innermost being that she would never have attempted that on purpose. Messing with devils was a good way to bring unwanted attention to herself from the lower planes, something she avoided assiduously.

She flopped down in a seat at the table and glanced at Kas' alchemical thingies. Saskia wasn't dumb - she was probably smarter than the average person, in fact - but she stayed away from that sort of thing as well. One could set oneself on fire or blow a hole in the wall if careless. She scooted a little further away from the half-orc. "Saskia Amberlock, of Nowhere Important. Mercenary by trade. I also hit things with my sword." She showed her teeth in a wide smile directed at Kas. "Kas and...Sir Koval or Sablelord as you prefer then. A pleasure to meet you all, though it'd be nicer if it were under better circumstances." She paused. "So...just in case you folks were wondering - someone always asks; you know, on account of my heritage and all - I didn't have anything to do with devil-summoning that I know of. Never on purpose. Wouldn't like to catch Daddy's attention, if you know what I mean. I'm gonna assume the same about you lot as well. So that leaves the big question: What the hells were we doing there?"

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas was quiet through the walk to the tavern, unsure of what to say to them. The sheer unfairness of the Princess's rulings on their pardons weighed on him, and the fact that, once the Princess had brushed off the nun's service in saving her life, Lukas had been unable to think of a response to get her to reconsider only made him feel worse. Should I apologize? Or would that make it worse? Would it be best to set the problem aside for the moment? Milady, please show me the way to help my new allies, and redress the balance.

At the inn, Lukas saw the half-elf who wore her devotion to Reinarra on her face, and reflexively touched the similar tattoo on his right wrist. He remembered his abbot's advice the day he received his tattoo, and joined the Reinkappi officially Bring happiness to everyone, Lukas. And that includes yourself. He has trouble remembering that sometimes.

But it was with this in mind that when he went to freshen up, Lukas pulled out his favorite tunic. Bright spring green, with morning glories and plumeria embroidered at the hems. The sleeves cut just short enough that his tattoo was clearly visible to all who looked. Simple by Reinnaran standards, but wearing this and going out into the world with it brightened his day and made him feel a bit more confident. And with everything that was happening over the past few days, Lukas felt like he needed it.

Lukas listened as the others explained their skills, wondering what exactly to say when it was his turn. Ultimately, he decided to keep to the basics. No need to go into his life story. "I am Lukas Stormlord, a Reinkappi. My skill is mostly with the bow, but I know some basic magical skills.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

His introduction made, Koval returned to his seat and listened attentively to the names of the other condemned. It was only when Saskia asked her questions, both of his proper title and their course of action, that he raised a hand.

"Please, Saskia. On the Road, Koval will serve. As to our objective, assuming none here intends to abandon our looming pardon for a life far from Grimgorge, I say we seek out the site of our arrest. I remember little of what happened that day, save that we awoke underground within a day's ride of this city. Perhaps come clue remains there. At the very least, we may be able to surmise if a summoning even occurred."

[BramsesII]

Kas

Having finished preparing her extracts, Kas begins packing away her equipment into a deceptively small sack. There's no way all that stuff could fit in there, and yet it does. "Yeah,
I'd really like to make a run for it. But as that'd leave me marked for execution, that's probably not a good idea." The half-orc grumbles. "Still, I hate being roped into something like this. Bloody nobles."

"Either way, I agree with Koval. Might as well see the scene of our alledged crime. And if we want to know more about those orcs, we could visit the shrines to Vela in Hammerglen or Windshire. Maybe they know something about this necklace... or something about orcs. But that's for later. Priority number one should be the devil."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --


*** Several minutes earlier, back in the Town Square... ***

In contrast to Saskia's somewhat lecherous reaction to Koval stripping, Hedwig's reaction was one of embarrassment and shock.

"Y-you're not seriously going to!-" But the nun trailed off as she saw that he, indeed, meant to change in the town square. And so, with a crimson face, she whirled away, steadfastly looking in the opposite direction until he was dressed.

And she certainly didn't peek briefly over her shoulder, just for a second or two. That would be incredibly unbefitting of a nun.


*** Meanwhile, back in the present... ***

"Indeed, attending to the devil must be our first task, lest Lady Torka rescinds her offer of mercy." Hedwig, having taken the innkeeper up on his offer of a free meal, shoveled a forkful of potatoes into her mouth, ravenously chewing on the roasted tubers - it had been days since they'd had anything but prison gruel.
And not even that, but Krusty Brand Imitation gruel. Nine out of ten orphans can't tell the difference.
"Although, that in and of itself raises a problem. I don't know if any of you have clearer memories than I, but I have no idea where we woke up. All I remember is that there were a lot of trees..."

Hedwig stroked her chin, deep in thought.

"The Commander seemed rather reticent to answer Koval's earlier questions as to the location of the scene, but... perhaps it was near Hammersrest? That is about a day away, and there is a forest between us and it. It would explain why Count Hammerlord's men found us."

She then turned to Natalie.

"But before we get too far ahead, I believe there is one last member here who has yet to introduce themselves."

[Taya]

Natalie

After finding an appropriate place to change, eat and even sleep, Natalie took a deep breath, looking at the ring in her hand while waiting for Hedwig to change. It's time. This is it! These people, these events... They are what the cartomancer told me. These people are the unison of the new ideas... We are "The Marriage". This, is the new beginning. She smiled. She knew that the future had plans for her, and that even if things started badly, as long as they kept working together, these new ideas would bloom into a new strength. That, is the Marriage card, and the first ally that would help her into a new journey.

After sitting together with everyone else, Natalie waited for her turn to introduce herself. She took various deep breaths while she listened to everyone. These people are my allies. I can't lie to them. Keep yourself together... Say your proper name, do a proper introduction... You can do it... She kept thinking to herself, afraid her natural instincts would come up, and she would end lying about her name and/or powers. She had concentrated so much, when Hedwig directed herself to her, Natalie jumped. "I-I'm Alis--" she stopped herself, closing her eyes and shaking her head. "My name... Is Natalie. She said, slowly. "I am... An arcana user. Speciality... She took a deep breath. "Deceit." She muttered, not really proud of her own abilities. After her introduction, she addressed the matter in hand. This time, she starts talking with little to no pause between her words, talking really fast.

"I also don't remember anything of the 'Summoning'. I can think of a lot of possibilities about what happened to us but they are all just fictions in my head with no proof whatsoever so I don't think it's a good idea to start saying them right now, if we want that solved we should first try to figure out some clues before sprouting random possibilities which might just cloud our judgement in the future." She finishes, and realizes that she babbled a little bit. "Sorry..." She whispered, looking down.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas awkwardly cleared his throat "Well, I don't know what happened any more than you, but my lady Reinarra would not approve of summoning a Devil, but she still grants me her blessing. He turned to Hedwig. "And I'm guessing the same is true for you?"

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas, unceremoniously shoveling food into her mouth, looks at Natalie and arches a brow. "I noticed that, with the deceit. Clever use of illusions there." Gulp. "Do you always talk like that?" The half-orc looks at her new companions.

Companions? Talk about your ragtag bunch. This is going to take some getting used to.

"Well, we've got some muscle, ranged support, and quite a bit of magic. Could've done worse, I guess." There's a short pause as Kas scratches her cheek. "Either way, I doubt that Reinarra's blessing's proof of your innocence, mister Reinkappi. You humans generally aren't the trusting sort."

"I mean, half of us are guilty just of existing, even without that supposed devil summoning." She shakes her head. "Doesn't matter, really. We need to find the crime scene, go there, and do some investigating. All we have to go on is trees about a day's journey away, correct? Hrm..."

Now, which forests are nearby here again?

Knowledge checks (w/ inspiration)! Which nearby forests does Kas know of?
(Geography): [roll0] + [roll1] = 22
(Local): [roll2] + [roll3] = 18

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

At Kas' observation that, between all of them, they had full coverage of all the various specialties of an adventuring group, Hedwig nodded vigorously.

"Indeed. A rare blessing of fortune, considering what we've all just been through."

At her assertion that the Reinkappi's connection to his goddess was not proof of their innocence, however, she shook her head even more emphatically.

"No... No, I must disagree with you there, Kas. It could not possibly be taken as anything other than proof. To consort with devils and demons is to lose our powers, both for Reinarra and Almahara. They are evil, anathema to the goddesses. As for half of you being guilty of just existing..."

Hedwig considered Saskia, ever-so briefly. All of her life she had been warned against tieflings. The curse of their forefathers runs through their veins, they had said. But the one before her...

No. She would not make any such assumptions. She had stood beside them, just the same as anyone else. And, if the pattern held, almost certainly accused just as falsely. Nothing about her had indicated dishonesty or deceit.

"Not by the time we're through. We will prove our innnocence. For all of us."

"But in any case, there is the matter of information." She turned to Natalie. "As you said, Natalie, we cannot allow conjecture to cloud our judgement. We need a solid lead, and for that, we need information from Hammerlord."

"There are two possibilities. One, we attempt to persuade the count, or one of his men, to give us the information of the goodness of their hearts. This is the honest approach, but it is not as likely to succeed, since the Count, for whatever reason, does not wish us to have this information. As such, we would need to go to a lieutenant, or a soldier with loose lips - perhaps loosen them with beer, as reluctant as I am to resort to bribery. The other way, though less-than-honest, is more likely - and it makes use of your talents, Natalie. If we have you disguise yourself as one of the Count's men, you can attempt to get close to him or to one of his lieutenants, and find out where he came from that way."

[Taya]

Natalie

"Thanks!" she says, smiling to Kas. "'Like that' what?"

Then, Natalie nods as Hedwigs agrees with her, but looks a little confused when she states her second suggestion. "I can do that, but only if the Count's man is: A) A gnome; B) A halfling; C) A child; D) A midget." She says, counting on her fingers. "I think we can strike out the last two. But yeah, this ability has some limitations, one of them being my height, and I can't be a lot more tall than this."

Natalie sighs, as she begins to prepare herself to address another point. "Also, Hed... Can I call you Hed?" she says, looking at Hedwig with puppy eyes. She continues either way: "How would your god take if you were, forcibly and without your consent, part of a devil/demon/fiend summoning?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As Natalie revealed that she could not change her height, Hedwig's face fell slightly.

"Well, we'll have to rely on the first idea then - getting the information from one of the soldiers who brought us here. And... I do not object to Hedwig, but 'Hed' is a bit much."

"As far as your question goes, as far as I know, if one is mind-controlled, Almahara does not hold your transgressions against you.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"I volunteer for any task that involves alcohol," Saskia said, sounding rather enthusiastic. "You might say it's a specialty of mine! Not that I drink beyond my ability to function," she added. "Usually."

"Just don't ask me to lie; I'm terrible at that. But I can probably drink any soldier under the table, and get him talking before that." She flashed a grin at the paladin. "And I'd bet I have lower inhibitions than that one."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Though he could not help but chuckle at Saskia's enthusiasm, Koval raised a hand to get the group's attention.

"I mean no offense, Hedwig, but I fear your good intentions are clouding your judgement. Consider that the Count Hammerlord is our accuser, and perhaps more than that the one who arranged our execution. While I have no doubt word will eventually reach him of our improbable deliverance, it would be a poor choice to deliver ourselves up to him or his men."

Lowering his hand, Koval took a slow drink before continuing.

"However, the Count and his men are not the only ones who know where we were found. It was, after all, Starg's prison wagon that transported us here. It is entirely possible some of the locals could enlighten us. And we have the benefit that one of us..."

He leveled a finger at Lukas.

"Is a hero. Bring the guards at the dungeon a suitable peace offering, bury whatever animosity may yet fester, and they may well be willing to help in our Reinkappi's noble quest. A cask of beer, I'm sure, would not go unappreciated by soldiers so recently tested."

Leaning back in his chair, he took another drink and turned to Saskia.

"While I do not doubt your ability, Saskia, it seems you bear the greatest suspicion of all of us. No doubt an unjust reflection on the circumstances of your birth. I would not recommend meeting the guards in even a friendly contest, at least until tempers have cooled."

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas stopped short at Natalie's question, but after a moment of consideration, shook his head."Even then, my lady would make her displeasure known somehow." And I already owe her so much...

Lukas fell into abstraction again, until Saskia challenged his ability to cut loose. "Oh, really? Would you like to put that to the test, Saskia?" he asked with a slight smirk. It had been awhile since he had a good drinking buddy-

But there wasn't time for that. Koval reminded him. And with that also came a reminder of the injustice involved with this whole situation. But if they wanted to call him a hero, and that would help them gather information, then his path was clear. "I suppose I could do that. First we would need to obtain the cask. And we are in a tavern... "

[BramsesII]

Kas



"No... No, I must disagree with you there, Kas. It could not possibly be taken as anything other than proof. To consort with devils and demons is to lose our powers, both for Reinarra and Almahara. They are evil, anathema to the goddesses. As for half of you being guilty of just existing..."

"Not by the time we're through. We will prove our innnocence. For all of us."


"Maybe proof to you and me, sister, but we still landed on the chopping block. Proof that doesn't convince your judge is as useful as horse manure on a shag carpet. As for proving our innocence... you're optimistic. Commendable." The half-orc nods. "And pointless," she adds under her breath.

She scratches her cheek. "I like the plan. Let our hero loosen up some tongues. Maybe let the sister join to have an extra pair of eyes. Could be useful."

"Also, if it involves alcohol I'm not involving myself." Kas shakes her head. "That'll only end in tears and/or fractures."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

When Koval outlined his own variant on the plan, Hedwig listened intently.

"No offense taken, Koval. I would never claim to have all the answers." She straightened up. "I am willing to put my confidence behind your plan. Although..." She turned to Saskia and Lukas. "If the two of you are going to have a drinking contest, I will ask that you hold off until all this is done. We will need our wits to be sharp, and..." Hedwig smiled, almost to the point of a grin. "I will want to join in as well. I wonder if this inn stocks any of the convent's products?.."

Upon brief reflection, you realize that in the vicinity of Starg, there is only one particular monastery known for brewing beer - The Convent of the Sun's Open Palm, located just outside the town of Hopsfield, just under a day's journey to the northeast. Hopsfield, and the convent along with it, is actually somewhat famous in Moondale for the cheese and beer they produce (the town, tellingly, was named after the vast fields of hops that they use to flavor their beer).

While the local farmers in Hopsfield are responsible for raising the cattle, barley, and hops used in their production, the Open Palm (as the convent is often abbreviated)
is responsible for every other stage of production of their famous cheeses and beer. The Open Palm creates four kinds of beer and three kinds of cheese.

Open Palm Morning Dew - A very hop-forward pale ale with a flavor reminiscent of pears, as well as a mild lemon and flowery finish. Brewed with the local Golddust hops, and the most popular beer within Hopsfield.

Open Palm Summer's Evening - A cloudy amber ale with a more moderate hop flavor. Malty and toffee-like, with a light spicy orange flavor from the Twilight hop varietal.

Open Palm Clear Moon - A porter, also flavored with Twilight hops, that presents with a roasted, breadlike flavor, with a highly bitter and spicy finish.

Open Palm Queenstout - The convent's darkest beer, and also their most recent, an imperial stout with a very deep, rich, chocolate flavor with a resiny finish that comes from a high amount of Golddust. Known to be so thick you can almost chew it.
Fogsnow - a soft, brie-like cheese, with a very mild flavor.

Hopscheddar - As indicated by the name, a cheddar variant flavored with local Golddust hops, which adds a bitter and slightly floral note to the nutty flavor of the cheese. The most popular cheese within Hopsfield.

Sunsrock - A grainy and very hard cheese reminiscent of gruyere, with earthy and fruity overtones.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Any time, mister!" All things considered, Saskia didn't mind the paladin and cleric who had been foisted upon her. Servants of Reinarra tended to know how to enjoy a party, and while she had qualms with Almaharra, a sister who worked at a convent known for its liquor couldn't be all bad. She made a sour expression and quickly drained half her mug. "Koval's right, however much I regret it. These soldier-boys are probably watching yours truly like a hawk, expecting someone with devil horns and a tail to pop up and breathe fire out my...well, to murder everyone in sight. Well, I've got the first two, and I don't want to give them any more cause to lock me up, no matter how fun a tumble with them might be. Lukas is the best one for the job here." Saskia shrugged, appearing slightly envious. "Slap enough gold down in front of the tavernkeeper and you'll probably have as much beer as you can carry. I've got -" Saskia fished out her rather empty-looking moneypouch and upended it on the table. She quickly counted out the coins and frowned. "Eight gold and two silver pieces. Time to take another mercenary contract. Or beat up a bandit for his brothel money."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig opened her own purse, counting out her money.

"I have 25 crowns, myself. If we pool all our resources we might be able to buy a keg." She turned to Kas. "And as long as Saskia's mentioned it tangentially, I also think Lukas might be best served going in alone. Since he has the reputation of a hero the rest of us lack, he is the least likely to draw negative attention. While I don't mind going in, myself, my convent's had a few... issues with the Imperial Church in the past. These may be mere local soldiers, rather than the count's men, but that distrust might still carry over."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

When talk turned to how they would afford a keg of beer, Koval stood without a word. Brushing a loose strand of hair from his face, he approached the bar and leaned against it, flashing a too-white smile at the man who had invited them in.

"My good barkeep, how much for a keg of your most popular beer?"

18 Diplomacy (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=22305723&postcount=151)

[Felhammer]

The barkeep looks behind him at two kegs and scratches his head, "I don't have just one favorite type. I have two - Open Palm Morning Dew and the Numb Lion. The Morning Dew is a hop flavored pale with a hint of pear, while the Numb Lion is a dark beer with a plumb smell and a pine taste. I often run out of both, especially around holidays.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Koval drummed his fingers once across the bar, apparently deliberating which of the two to purchase. A snap of his fingers signaled the end to his indecision.

"Well, I should hard want to sample one without the other then. How much for both?"

[Felhammer]

The barkeep ponders for a moment, taking time to look Koval up and down. The then looks at the kegs and then back at Koval, "Well..." he equivocates, "... Thirty Silver for the Open Palm Morning Dew and forty silver for the Numb Lion." He nods several times, as if to reassure himself that his proposal was a fair deal.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Reaching into his purse, Koval counted out nine golden crowns and slapped them on the counter.

"Then I shall have both, good sir. And drinks all around. Today is a holiday, after all."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Watching as Koval went and asked the bartender regarding prices and availability, Hedwig could not help but grin a little in pride as he mentioned that they did, in fact, stock Morning Dew. Although she was too slow to sidle up and shamelessly suggest they go for just her convent's pride and joy, Hedwig did call out as Koval ordered both kegs of ale and a round of drinks.sd

"Pint of the Morning Dew for me, please!"

[Felhammer]

The barkeep gleefully pours a pint for Hedwig and a triple pint for Koval, then small mugs for everyone else.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Slinking up to the bar, Hedwig carefully took the tankard from the barkeep, a large smile still on her face.

"Thank you!"

Returning to the table, she took a long, deep drink, then relaxed into her chair with a smack of her lips and a contented sigh.

"Aaah... Just what I needed after everything." When Koval returned, she sat up a little straighter. "So, the most important question - should we see if we can take the soldiers back here to the kegs, or bring the kegs to them?"

[BramsesII]

Kas

The half-orc grumbles as she makes her way to the bar. "Alright alright. Give me one of the dew, and no more."

Once she has her mug and gets back to the table she looks at the others. "Okay, so one drink,
then we put our plan into action. Then we use the rest of the day to gather as much information as we can. Find out where we were found, and if there's any sightings of said devil. Anything else useful we can come up with."

"And then we leave first thing in the morning to find the scene of the crime." She takes a sip from her mug.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Watching as Kas took her drink only reluctantly, Hedwig finally took heed of what the half-orc had said earlier.

Something about fractures and not ending well... has she had a drinking problem in the past, maybe?

She lightly shook her head.

Something to ask later.

"That seems to be about the gist of it, if everything goes well." She then knocked three times on the wooden table and finished the rest of her tankard.

"And now, we just have to find some of the men who brought us here."

Once everyone has finished their drinks, Hedwig will join Lukas in attempting to find a contingent of the soldiers who were driving the paddy wagon and/or listening out for any rumors/information regarding the devil and where the party was driven in from.

Diplomacy (Gather Information): [roll0]. Per the rules, this process takes about [roll1] hours.

To clarify, Hedwig will not be engaging the soldiers - she just wants to locate them. As per the plan, it will be Lukas who does the work of 'lubing them up', so to speak.

[Felhammer]

Hedwig spends the next four hours scouring the town for Count Hammerlord's men but does not seem to find anyone who had seen where they went, which makes sense given the large influx of people who flooded into town to watch the executions and celebrate one of the holiest days of Autumn. Eventually, Hedwig hears a rumor that one of the men has not left town and is in fact located in a seedy dive bar called the Hissing Vagabond. The pub is located in the poorer section of town, where the Vala dwarves live.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Upon finally obtaining the information, Hedwig returned to the tavern to share it with the group, still slightly out of breath.
"So, it took an aeon of searching, but I managed to locate one of Hammerlord's men who hasn't left town yet. Apparently he's at a bar called the Hissing Vagabond, in the Vala Dwarf neighborhood. Sir Lukas, I believe it is now time for you to enact your part of the plan."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Given a second target thanks to Sister Hedwig's inquiries, the party had settled on a two-pronged approach to finding the information they sought. While the kegs of beer were left in the charge of Lukas, Hedwig, and Natalie for transit to the prison and its thirsty guards, Koval, Kas, and Saskia set out for the Hissing Vagabond and Hammerlord's errant man. In the intervening hours, Koval had donned his armor, covering black leathers with a midnight blue gambeson and short hauberk of black chain before strapping the strangely fluted plates of his armor into place. His helm fastened securely atop his head, Koval was transformed from a pale figure to one of inky darkness. As they passed from the celebratory main streets into the side alleys of the Vala neighborhood, his voice resonated out from the metal shell.

"When we find this man, let me try to appeal to his better nature first. Perhaps we'll finally have some luck, and he'll prove amenable to helping us. If he does not, however, we may have to pressure him more directly."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Grateful that her initial misunderstanding of Koval's plan had still borne fruit, Hedwig bid Koval, Kas, and Saskia good luck as they departed for the Hissing Vagabond, then started helping Lukas and Natalie to roll the kegs toward the prison.

"We will step in if necessary, and help to create the atmosphere of merrymaking, but as discussed previously, you should take the lead in all the talking, Sir Lukas. They will warm up more naturally to someone the princess has deemed a hero and officially pardoned."

[BramsesII]

Kas


***While waiting for Hedwig***

Waiting for the nun to return with information on where to go, Kas finishes her meal and makes her way over to the gnome reading a scroll in the corner. She looks at him. "'xcuse me. I couldn't help but notice the scroll. Do you happen to know if there's a place where one could buy magical scrolls nearby? Maybe potions as well."

Once she finishes her conversation with the gnome she steps up to yet another gnome, this time the one in he own party. She leans close to the gnome and whispers. "So. Natalie, right? You said your specialty is deception? We've seen some of that, but that's made me curious. What else can you do with your spells?"


***On the way to interrogating Hammerlord's crony***

Kas nods at Koval's suggestion. "Sure, why not? Why start a bar brawl when you can avoid it,
right? Wouldn't want to draw undue attention to ourselves. Still, I wouldn't mind beating the information out of him."

[Estralita]

Lukas

Seeing Hedwig's arrival, Lukas excused himself from the conversation. Showtime.

Of course, first they needed to get there. Plenty of time for Lukas to worry about his place in this plan. The others seemed to be expecting him to be able to charm his way through coaxing out the information they needed. But Lukas wasn't feeling especially charming, or clever right now. And if I screw this up, it's the others who suffer.

But he was a follower of Reinarra, and he was not going to back down from a challenge. Especially one that involved drinking and parties.

By the time he arrived, Lukas had managed to calm himself down. Just before he reached the first guard, he quietly recited a prayer to Reinarra, asking for luck in his dealings. He had the feeling he was going to need it.

Lukas attempts to cast Tap Inner Beauty just out of line of sight of the guards. Short dration,
but it doesn't look like Lukas is going to need those spell slots tonight.

Once this was done, Lukas stepped forwards with a smile. " Greetings, everyone. I hope we're not intruding." he called out, while showing the kegs they brought along.

Diplomacy:
[roll0]

[Othniel]

Saskia

With Koval and Kas

Snorting with amusement, Saskia gave Koval a look. "Some men don't have better natures. I know. But you're welcome to try." She grinned, showing her sharp teeth. "If that doesn't work, we can try things the fun way. I'm pretty good at that sort of persuasion."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

After a little while rolling the kegs around town, Hedwig, alongside Lukas and Natalie, discovered that there was a slight flaw in the plan that had originally been developed.

Namely, the dungeon where they had been kept was inside Starg's keep, past several dozen guards.

Luckily, after some searching, they were able to find out the name of a pub where a lot of the guards hung out when they were not working - a little joint called The Purple Crab. Once they had arrived, Hedwig, panting somewhat from the exertion, turned to Lukas and Natalie.

"I doubt the proprieter will take kindly to us cutting in on his liquor, so one of us should wait out here with the kegs. If you would be so kind, Natalie?"

She then turned to Lukas.

"I will come in, but I will rest near the door for a bit and allow you to do your thing. If you need some backup, just wave me over."

[Felhammer]

The gnome looks up, clearly quite stunned that a half-orc would approach and not be, well, rude. "W-w-w-well... You would need to go to the Naga's Quill, over in the better part of town. Only magic shop in town. The proprietress is quite... Pleasant... I suppose..."

One half of the party finds themselves in a warehouse district in the middle of the city, surrounded by rutted streets and anonymous buildings. The street outside is strewn with debris from a broken crate. An occasional drunken reveler walks by, their faces smeared with orange paint. The Purple Crab is a well known pub for the guards of Starg. It is out of the way but still centrally located, perfect for their needs. The inn is a large single story timber framed building, with a heather-thatched roof and dwarf-wrought iron tables and chairs. A gnomish bard sits on the stage strumming a lyre and sining The Princesses Come West, one of the most popular poem-songs in Grimgorge which speaks of the Princesses' bravery during the Gloom and how they defended the people of Grimgorge from the Orcs.

The pub is quite full today. About half the people inside wear the Starg's tabards. They are drinking from pewter steins. By the smell of it, they are drinking Numb Lion. No one notices the party entering, save one particularly tall human woman, with long blond hair, pulled back into a tight pony tail. She does nothing but scowl at the party members who enter the pub.


The Other half of the party venturers to the Hissing Vagabond over in Dwarf Town. It is the poorest section of the city, located on the far eastern bank of the River Princess. This section of town is mostly peopled by the poor, the Vala Dwarves and the transient Undine. The area is also home to leather tanners, which gives the whole area pungent stench. The Hissing Vagabond is in a slum ward, near the ruins of an old bridge. The street outside is oddly empty and silent, which fills you with a sense of dark foreboding. The inn is a single story wooden building, with a small, poorly maintained hedged yard. The tavern has a makeshift assortment of ramshackle tables and chairs, which rest upon a dirt floor covered in straw. Fifteen people are drinking inside, about half are Vala Dwarves. The majority are drunk and nearly passed out. A man in the corner smokes on a pipe, his eyes glossing over with each puff. The barkeep is a thick-set, bald, Vala Dwarf. He leers at the party as they enter the establishment.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Once the initial wave of desperation and drunkenness had passed, Koval moved towards the leering bartender. Reaching into his purse, he placed a single gold coin down in front of the man.

"Hammerlord's man."

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

The Dwarven barkeep forcefully pushes the coin off the side of the bar. The coin lands on the floor with a thud. "Ain't no one here like that. This here's a place for poor folk. For Vala."

[Othniel]

Saskia

The tiefling stood near the doorway as Koval pushed forward, leading the trio for the moment. She leaned against the dirty wall and swished her tail idly as the man made his play...and failed. Clenching her fists and cracking both sets of knuckles, she swaggered up to the bar as Koval wordlessly made way for her. She scooped the coin up off the ground with her tail and dropped it into her hand, staring at it for a moment. Then she brushed it off before delicately placing it back upon the bar. "That," she said, "was not polite." Saskia leaned in closer to the barkeep and gave him her biggest smile, pointed teeth bared and gleaming. There was no mirth in the expression: only a savage grin in the way a predator might smile upon her prey. "We're looking for one of Hammerlord's men. I suggest you try again, more cooperatively this time."

Intimidate! [roll0]

[Felhammer]

The Vala Dwarf Barkeep dips his head, "Aye, aye. No use getting angry now. Not used to seeing his lot in 'ere, making demands, asking things. The Hammerlord man... He's... Uhhh..." His eyes dart back and forth ans he leans in close, "Next door... If you know what I mean. Visiting with some "friends", if you know what I mean. " The dwarf leans back and pours the two party members a glass of watered down Numb Lion. With a shrug he says, "While you wait..."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig frowned slightly as she caught the blonde human's glares.

Best stay away from her.

Turning to Lukas, Hedwig noted that the knight looked a little hesitant, and walked over to him.

"Follow my lead."

Picking a table of Starg's finest at random (preferably away from the blonde), Hedwig casually walked over and greeted them.

"A fine afternoon to you, my good gents. I don't suppose these seats are taken?"

[Othniel]

Saskia

Taking a sip of the Numb Lion, Saskia made a sour face. It really was watered down. May as well be drinking water. "You two want me to drag him out, or shall we let the man have his fun first?" she asked the other two.

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas looks at her drink apprehensively. It's a good thing the stuff's watered down as she shouldn't be drinking too much. Kas turns to Saskia. "Maybe we should give the man some time. He'll be easier to question when he's done his business. You know how men are." She takes a sip. "Let's give him... oh, say half an hour? Should be more than enough."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Glad that the two women had spared him having to turn down the drinks, Koval leaned against the bar.

"I agree. Much as I would enjoy dragging him out of whatever hole he's settled into, he'll likely be more cooperative if we stay friendly."

He did not add that, lacking a pardon themselves, he was loath to draw the ire of the Guard.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas follows after Hedwig, grateful for the support, particularly with the lady' glare burning a hole through he back of his head . The had a goal, but he wasn't certain how to go about reaching it. Despite what the others had said, Lukas doubted going up to strangers and saying, "Hi, Lady Torka just declared me a hero and told me to go fight a devil. Tell me all you know about how the thing was summoned," was going to cut it. So chatting until it came up naturally was like the best bet.

When Hedwig asked to sit, Lukas said nothing but, but smiled. Don't push too much, or else they'd look suspicious.

[Felhammer]

After about thirty minutes, a tubby but strongly built dwarf saunters into the room. His hear is sweaty, pulled back into a loose, greasy ponytail. His beard is matted and equally sweaty. He takes a seat next to the man in the corner, who is smoking "the good stuff". Your mark plops his feet up on an end table and rests his hands behind his head. His face is beaming with contentment. A dwarven bar maid, walks over and hands him a pint of numb lion. She is on the younger side, with long, well kept curly red hair. Her clothes are plain but are pleasant enough. The two begin to chat.

Hedwig takes a seat next tow two guards, clad in the city guard tabards. Both are human, males, with short hair the color of a flame. Their swords and clubs have been laid on the table. They are both drinking a pint of Numb Lion. After a moment of looking at the two, you realize they are in fact twins. The only real difference between the two is that the one on the left has blue eyes, while the one on the right has brown eyes. The one with blue eyes, stands up and pulls out a seat for Hedwig, "How may we help you, Sister?"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Don't lie - but give them a little time. Ease them into things. Then ask what's up.

"Such a gentleman."

Hedwig nodded gratefully at the one who had pulled out a chair for her, then sat.

"Right now? I want many things. But before we attend to the larger things, first, I would like a nice, stiff drink, especially on a day like today. How about another round? This one is on me and my friend here."

Diplomacy (to improve their disposition toward us): [roll0]

[Felhammer]

In unison they proclaim, Thank you kindly, sister! We greatly appreciate it! After a fashion, the bar keep drops off two pints for the lads.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As the bartender came around, Hedwig passed him the requisite payment for the guardsmen's beer.

One less thing to worry about once we have the info. We need to be able to leave quickly if that angry woman tries to start something.

"Ordinarily, I'd stick with one of our own brews, but you know what they say about competition being healthy."

The nun then let the men take a few swigs before resuming her inquiries.

"Anyway - let's not let the conversation die down. How's the guardsman's life been treating you two lately?"

If you want, Fel, we can play this out in the Discord IC thread, but basically, Hedwig is trying to casually find out if these guys were among the prison guard contingent when the party was brought in.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Seeing the sweaty dwarf enter and begin chatting up the bar maid, Koval spent a few moments watching the man, trying to catch what snatches of conversation he could from the bar. His surveillance did not lost long, however, as with a crack of his neck he approached the corner table.

"Happy Execution Day, friends. Buy you a drink?"

[Othniel]

Saskia

Satisfied that Koval would take care of things, the Tiefling nodded to her half-orc companion and took her glass to a table within earshot. She also drew out a flask, unscrewed the lid, and poured a dash of dark liquid into the glass. Replacing the flask, she took a sip and winced. It hadn't made an improvement in the flavor, though the familiar burn was there. Still, better than nothing she figured.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Relieved, Lukas sat down. "May I ask your names? he asked with a friendly smile.

[Taya]

Natalie

After silently following Hedwig and Lukas for a while, trying to contemplate on what she could do to help the team, when they enter the establishment, Natalie freezes. Maybe it was the angry woman's look, maybe it was this type of ambience that Natalie never grew accustomed of. She looks around a little bit, scared, trying to get a better visual of the whole place. The decoration, the organization - or lack of it - where the doors and windows are located... Looking for those things normally help Natalie calm down.

I'll ask for a perception, but you don't need to fully describe the whole place, that's not my objective. I just need something among the lines of "you've memorized the place layout for now", or "you've looked around" idk

However, the little person get lost in thought while looking around the place, and both Hedwig and Lukas are already sitting down. She flinches, as the thought of being kept out of their way crosses her head. But she takes a deep breath, and approach both groups.

"S-sorry, I spaced out for a bit!" she says, approaching and trying to find somewhere to sit. Maybe she'll need to stand up in a chair to be on eye level to everyone else, but she'll do it if necessary. "Never been to this place before." she continues, avoiding eye contact with anyone, just looking down on the table.

[Felhammer]

The twins light up as Lukas sits down, "I'm Thorlak and he's Thormir," exclaims the Blue eyed twin.

After another round of beer, Thormir shakes his head at Hedwig, "We've been doing well. Been rounding up criminals from across Moondale to bring them here. Execution day is pretty big around these parts. Have to empty that dungeon, after all."

Thorlak agrees, "Yeah, especially with winter coming. All the cells were full up with Frostrage victims last year. Imagine it will be the same this year..."

They both look at one another and share a look. Thorlak slaps Thormir's back and orders some more drinks.

The dwarf looks Koval up and down then nods, "Hmmm... A man doesn't buy a stranger a drink unless he's looking for something. Make it a triple pint and my lips may become a bit loose..." His eyes drift to the Half-Orc, "What's that thing doing in here? Ain't no place fer her kind. Don't mean to be rude, but its the truth. Count Hammerlord ain't a fan of Half-Breeds. I reckon I agree with him."

[BramsesII]

Kas


The dwarf looks Koval up and down then nods, "Hmmm... A man doesn't buy a stranger a drink unless he's looking for something. Make it a triple pint and my lips may become a bit loose..." His eyes drift to the Half-Orc, "What's that thing doing in here? Ain't no place fer her kind. Don't mean to be rude, but its the truth. Count Hammerlord ain't a fan of Half-Breeds. I reckon I agree with him."

Kas, having joined Saskia, eyes the dwarf. His comments are something she's heard many times before, and she decides to ignore it. No point in starting a bar-fight now. Best to let Koval handle this. Still, Kas regrets not having any laxatives with her she could spike the dwarf's drink with.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

At the mention of the Frostrage, Hedwig shook her head sadly.

"You'd think one would get used to a tragedy like that eventually, but it always..."

She sipped some Numb Lion, smacking her lips before continuing on with her chat.

"Speaking of the dungeon, there are actually a couple of things I wanted to ask you two regarding that. Count Hammerlord's men were among those who delivered a batch of prisoners to the dungeon just before today - were either of you around when that happened?"

"Ah. Then, I have a very important thing I need to ask you two. At any time, did any of them mention where they had just come in from?"

Moment of truth.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Othniel]

Saskia

The Tiefling glanced between the dwarf and Kas, giving the half orc a tiny shrug. No word of complaint about the tiefling half-breed. If Kas wanted anyone to stick up for her, she could ask. Saskia took another sip.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

At mention of a triple pint, Koval gave a nod to the barmaid, his right hand drifting to jangle his coin purse.

"Triples for the three of us, then. Please."

Once the woman left to attend to their order, he placed his hand palm down on the table. It did wonders to mask his anger.

"Every man is entitled to their opinion, friend. But so too can every creature rise above the circumstances of their birth. After all, are we not united under the gods and the crown?"

Can I roll higher than a 5?

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

The dwarf greedily grasps the triple pint. he takes a healthy gulp, wishing the foam away from his lips with his beard. "Well... At least the mongrel has good taste in company." The dwarf raises his pitcher-sized stein to Koval in respect. "What can I do for you?"



The twins nod, "Yeah we were there when those devil summoners were brought in. They were in a wagon with a bunch of other criminals. Glad they were hanged, honestly. We can't have devils running amok in the countryside. The Rangers are going to have their hands full finding and killing him."

"I think they came from Svelgild over in Hopsshire. You know, they say that place is haunted by ghosts. No wonder those cultists used it to summon a devil!"

"I heard those devil summoners scattered when Hammerlord's men barged in!"

The two lads emulate whacking one another on the head with cudgels.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

A variety of conflicting feelings went through Hedwig's head as Thormir revealed the information they had been looking for.

Anxiety for herself and the team. Well, clearly they haven't heard the news about what happened in the square. At all. Which explains why they've been so friendly. Best leave before they have the chance to find out.

Satisfaction at having a lead, followed by anxiety for her 'family'. Svelgild. From what I remember, that place does have a forest around it, so that would fit the profile. And assuming the whole story wasn't just made up about a devil, that is... worryingly close to Hopsfield and the Open Palm.

And lastly, confusion. But what on earth were Hammerhead's men doing out of Hammerglen? Hopshire is two provinces over...

Resolving to find that out later, Hedwig continued to put on a happy façade as best she could.

"Another round, and a toast of good luck to the rangers, then." She smiled. "And to all of you and your comrades who defend us."

Can't take off right away, that'd make them suspicious. Buy another round, have a couple drinks, then leave.

Signalling the bartender over, Hedwig then paid for another round before scooting her chair away.

"Well, Thorlak, Thormir, it's been a pleasure to meet you both, but unfortunately we must be going."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Relaxing slightly as the dwarf seemed willing to ignore his slip of the tongue, Koval turned his attention away from Kas and towards the two soldiers fully.

"I've heard you were part of the group that brought in the devil worshipers for today's ceremony. I was wondering if you'd be willing to share the tale? I'm sure it's thrilling."

[Felhammer]

"The devil summoners? Bah, what's there to know? A catfolk trader from Maghemia stopped in Lagnet for the night. He told the guards that he witnessed some women in black and red robes attack Bellham, a small little hamlet on the border of milord's territory. Once word got to the Count, he immediately mustered up a force to investigate. By the time we got to Bellham, the village was a smoking wreck. Two or three cultists remained. We managed to capture one. After a bit o' torture, the lass sang like a canary. She said she and her friends were going to sacrifice the kids to summon a devil. After a bit more beatings she confessed that the summoning was to take place in Svelgild, that old haunted ruin in the Moon Woods. We rode over there immediately and assaulted the ruin. The ritual was done by the time we arrived. About ten kids stacked up and mutilated up on the altar." He takes a big swig of his alcohol, then continues, "A trail of brimstone lead away from the altar and out into the woods. A handful of the cultists were left hanging around. Killed a few, captured a few more. Lashed them in chains and took them here, to Starg, in order to be interrogated and executed. The High Priest personally oversaw the torture. Killed three of them, best we can tell. Left... Six alive." He leans in and whispers, "Don't think I don't recognize you, you cultists. You may have tricked the Princess into believing you were wrongly accused but I know better. Here's the deal, you leave a sack of coins on this table so I can drown away the memory of those butchered kids and in return, I won't tell everyone you're a bunch of kid killers. I imagine everyone here would be real eager to slit your throats and toss your bodies in the sea..."

Bellham is north of Rosbrea, on the border between Hammerglen and Bannermead, on the Hammerglen side. I will update the map later tonight.

The twins don't seem to notice Hedwig's unease. They gleefully accept her gift of a few more rounds and wish her and her companions well when they leave.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Smiling thinly behind the mask of his helm, Koval leaned in to answer the dwarf's whisper.

"You might want to rethink your tone, sir. Innocent though I may be, I do not respond to threats. And even if we were cultists, it seems a poor tactic to threaten violence against those capable of what you have seen."

Koval stood, slowly, eyes locked on the dwarf.

"We are leaving - we have what we came for."

[Felhammer]

The dwarf locks eyes with Koval and whispers, "I'll remember this little slight, kid killer. We Vala have long memories. Best be careful, the Moon Woods are a dangerous place, after all. Shame if something happened to you out there..." He leans back and takes a swig of ale. He does not blink as he watches the party leave.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --


*** Meanwhile, across town... ***

As Hedwig, Lukas, and Natalie exited the Purple Crab, the nun breathed a sigh of relief.

"I have to confess, I was not sure whether or not we would be able to get the information we sought without trouble. But it seems Almahara has blessed us this day."

She turned to Lukas and Natalie.

"We should return to the bloody dagger and await the others. In the meantime, if it's not too much to ask, tell me a little bit about yourselves. If we're going to be investigating together, I would know my companions."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Before turning away from the corner table, Koval delivered a few parting words.

"We all make our own choices, master dwarf. Yours would not be the first grave I've dug in these forests."

He turned on his heel after the last word, heading towards the door and liberation from the cloying stink.

[Othniel]

Saskia

It galled her to do so, but the tiefling woman left Koval to handle the surly dwarf. Saskia tensed, however, when he accused them of being child-killers, and white-hot rage filled her mind. She'd seen the aftermath of bandit attacks on villages, and the thought of being compared to the type of people who could do such a thing made her angry enough tos houd. She gripped the table to keep herself from turning on the foul creature and forced down the urge to introduce her fist to his face, realizing after a moment that she'd gripped the table so hard, her claws had left marks. She stood when Koval announced their departure and left last, throwing the dwarf a spiteful look.

After they'd left the establishment, Saskia growled her displeasure and kicked a loose paving stone, sending it skidding down the street. "The little creep actually believed we did those things, and he threatened us! I've half a mind to go back in there and shove his beard down his throat." Saskia fumed silently for a few more moments, staring at the door to the tavern as if trying to decide whether to do just that. Finally, she turned her back on the establishment and her shoulders slumped slightly. "Let's go. I need to be doing something. A good fight would do me wonders. Or a good -" She glanced in the direction of the brothel and shook her head. "Well, nevermind that."

[Taya]

Natalie

As they exit, the little gnome walks looking down on the ground, fumbling with her thumbs. She lets out a sigh of sadness before Hedwig asks for more personal information. Natalie looks up to Hedwig, opening and closing her mouth a few times. It seems like she wants to say something, but it's reluctant to do so. After a few tries... She gives up, as she goes back to looking down into the ground as they walk. "I'm glad we got the info we needed. Thanks, Hedwig." She says, with a sad tone.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig looked at the gnome with concern as she spoke in a sad tone. "Is something wrong, Natalie?"

[Felhammer]

The party returns to the Bloody Dagger. Upon entry, Nirecht Farmerso - the Barkeep - smiles warmly at each party member, "Hey, how are you? Back already?" Without asking, he happily pours a pitcher of Open Palm Morning Dew and sets it on a table, along with six steins.

[Othniel]

Saskia

The welcome of Bloody Dagger's barkeep to the party came as a welcome counterpoint to Saskia's experience in the Hissing Vagabond, and she found herself returning the smile. "They were not very welcoming at the other place. Here is much nicer." She poured herself a drink from the pitcher. "And the fare is fairer as well! Koval got what we needed though, so that's good. He can tell you the particulars."

[BramsesII]

Kas

As the three make their way back to the Bloody Dagger, Kas' face is set to thunder for the entire walk. "Bloody dwarf 's lucky the ale was as weaker than goblin piss. After a proper ale and that comment I would've torn him an extra orifice or three. I'm with you on all counts, Saskia. Next time we meet him I put him in a headlock, you tear off his beard and we make him swallow it hair by hair." Kas adjusts her spiked gauntlet. "I'm itching for a fight as well, but that's probably not in our best interest right now. Better just have another drink."

Her mood considerably lightens when a stein is placed in front of her with real ale. "You have no idea how happy I am to see a proper drink."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --


*** Earlier, walking to the tavern... ***

As Hedwig awaited Natalie's response, a thought struck her.

"...this isn't because I refused to let you give me a nickname, is it?"


*** Meanwhile, back in the present... ***


Rubbing her hands with glee at the sight of Morning Dew, Hedwig poured herself a pitcher and took a long drink before turning to Koval, Kas, and Saskia, a look of slight concern on her face at the frustration the two women expressed. "You didn't run into too much trouble, did you guys? You're all still in one piece, at least."

"As for what we learned... it wasn't much, but apparently, a couple of the guards overheard Hammerlord's men when they came in. Claimed it was from Svelgild, of all places, which would fit with my memories of a forest. Thankfully, none of them recognized us, so we were able to leave without much fuss."

[Taya]

Natalie


*** Earlier, walking to the tavern... ***

As she keeps looking down, trying to think about an answer, Hedwig's remembers the nickname thing. Natalie looks at her, with a little confused expression, and laughs. Albeit a sincere laugh, it was still riddled with sadness. "No, that's not it. It's just... I don't know, in these situations I thought I could be more useful. But I was completely ignored. I guess... Maybe next time I should just hide, waiting for my opportunity to use magic?" She goes back to looking down before continuing, almost as if whispering. "Maybe that's all I'm good for after all, huh?"


*** Meanwhile, back in the present... ***

As they arrive, Natalie looks for Kas. She approaches her, slowly, and makes a signal for her to come closer. She whispers. "I'll tell you more about my abilities when we have some proper time, ok?"

[Estralita]

Lukas

Outside the tavern

Lukas awkwardly rubbed the back of his head. "I know what you mean. Everyone seemed to expect me to be able to use the whole "hero" thing to get info, but I kinda froze back there. I guess I'm not used to starting up conversations with strangers. But it all worked out thanks to Hedwig, so...

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --


*** Earlier, walking to the tavern... ***

As Lukas and Natalie expressed their regrets that they had not been more involved, Hedwig rapidly shook her head.

"The two of you musn't degrade yourselves in such a manner. It's not easy to strike up conversation if you're being ignored, and small talk is not a skill easily learned. Given the whims of fate, I am certain that you will have other opportunities to prove yourselves. Take heart in that."

She then turned to Natalie.

"And, incidentally, after giving it some thought... I've decided that I'm fine if you refer to me as 'Hed'." The nun smiled lightly. "Just, er, try not to do so in front of my other sisters. Dignity of the habit and all that."

[Taya]

Natalie


*** Earlier, walking to the tavern... ***

Natalie, still looking down, hears Lukas talking about his thoughts on the matter. She feels comfort knowing that someone else has the same kind of problems as she has. Hedwig then starts talking...

"The two of you musn't degrade yourselves in such a manner. It's not easy to strike up conversation if you're being ignored, and small talk is not a skill easily learned. Given the whims of fate, I am certain that you will have other opportunities to prove yourselves. Take heart in that."

Natalie nods, and looks at Hedwig again. "I will." The nun then proceeds.

"And, incidentally, after giving it some thought... I've decided that I'm fine if you refer to me as 'Hed'." The nun smiled lightly. "Just, er, try not to do so in front of my other sisters. Dignity of the habit and all that."

Natalie, with a mix of surprise and happiness, gives Hedwig a big smile. "Thanks, Hed!" she says, as she starts skipping and smiling.

[BramsesII]

Kas




*** Meanwhile, back in the present... ***

As they arrive, Natalie looks for Kas. She approaches her, slowly, and makes a signal for her to come closer. She whispers. "I'll tell you more about my abilities when we have some proper time, ok?"

The orc takes a swig of her drink, then nods. "Great. It'll be useful to know just what everyone in this group is capable of."

After finishing her drink, she looks around at the others. "So, we have a general idea of where to go. When do we leave, and how do we travel?"

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

On their return to the Bloody Dagger, Koval refused further drink. Instead, he pulled his helmet off and set to returning his hair to some measure of order. By the time the others returned, he seemed once again a picture of alien nobility. Listening to Hedwig's accounting of their mission, he nodded.

"We heard a similar story from the mouth of one of Hammerlord's loutish servitors. The man's taste for soldiers seems equal to his dedication for justice. Svelgild is not too far, and I've nothing more to attend to here. Unless one of you has unfinished business, I think we should set off as soon as possible."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --
"Agreed. The longer we wait, the colder the trail goes."

Taking her flagon, Hedwig promptly chugged the rest of the beer, then smacked her lips in satisfaction.

"No point wasting good drink before we leave."

Standing up, she waltzed over to the bartender.

"My companions and I thank you for the room and beer, good sir, but unfortunately we must depart. Would you happen to know of anyplace where we can procure some good horses?"

And, on a side note, Fel, how large are the kegs of beer we brought? I'd like to take them with us, but if they're too large, we may not be able to get a horse heavy enough to carry them effectively.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"All right, let's go now!" Saskia suggested, pushing herself away from the table and standing up. "I've had enough of this place - aside from this nice tavern, of course - and I'm ready to hit the road."

[Felhammer]

https://s26.postimg.org/834hkxgzt/Lord.png

The party bids farewell to the barkeep at the Bloody Dagger and heads off to the stables outside the better part of town. The stables are quite full, which is to be expected this time of year. Many field hands walk the horses around several different yards. The horses look to have come from all walks of life, from lordly trotters to work horses conscripted to help drag goods to the city. As you walk up to the stable house - which is a state looking building with alabaster white walls and deep, cocoa brown beams - you are greeted by a pleasant chap. He wears a trendy green tunic that has clearly become a bit threadbare. His runs his fingers through his mildly sweaty, red hair and holds up a hand, "Hail and welcome. Here to pick your horses up or are you looking to buy some?"

As you speak with the stable master, a knight clad in chain mail trots up. He comes to a halt about twenty feet away. His royal blue tunic is emblazoned with a white unicorn, the symbol of House Windlord (of Windshire). The knight hops off his mount and walks up. He is a human, male, roughly twenty years old. He has flowing blonde hair and steel blue eyes. "Greetings, sirs and ladies, I am Croftborg Windlord, grandson of Count Windlord. I seek to stable my noble steed - Valiant - here at your stables. I have come with news for the Princess and Commander."

The stable master hesitates for a moment, looking between the party and the knight, trying best to decide which group takes precedence...

You guys paid for a 15.5 gallon wood barrel of beer. So that's like 120 pounds, not including the barrel.

[Taya]

Natalie

"Hm", Natalie steps forward to talk with both knight and stablemaster. "I'm sorry, but we are in a hurry. We are doing a special mission for the crown, and we need an animal to help us get to our destination. We need priority in your services, and if not attended in time, we might fail our mission, which would not please the crown in the least." She looks at her allies, with her eyes turned into yellow, cat-like eyes, then back at both knight and stablemaster, her eyes back to normal. "That's not good for us, not good for you, and not good for the kingdom." She finishes, with assertiveness.

Bluff + Silver Tongue (8/9): [roll0]

[Felhammer]

The young man is a bit perplexed and stunned with the news. He pauses to consider before bowing slightly, "I yield the Stable Master to you, my dear."

The Stable master doesn't really know what's going on. After a few seconds of looking at Windlord and the party, he asks, "So... Stabling or buying...?"

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Leaving the others to the task of purchasing a suitable beast for their purposes, Koval removed his helm and approached the younger knight. Tucking it under one arm, he slapped a fist against his breastplate in salute with the other.

"Sir Windlord, well met. I am Sir Koval Sablelord of the northern marches. What news from the Frontier?"

Is this the roll?

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

Windlord grasps Koval's hand verily, "It is good to meet another nobleman. We are few and far between these days, I fear." He pulls Koval in tight and whispers, "I come bearing news of orcs, sadly. Our scouts spotted about a hundred massing in the Frontier. My grandfather, Count Windlord, fears these orcs are the harbingers of a larger conflict that is to come. I rode all day and night to come here, to Starg, in order to inform the Princess of what has happened... And to ask High Priest Alfbjorn to send a message to the Crown in Stunborg by way of his magical raven."

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Pulled in close to hear Sir Windlord's whisper, Koval responded with his own low murmur.

"It is good that you have come, Sir Windlord, but I fear the danger you seek to warn the Princess of has already struck the first blow. This morning the city was assaulted by an orc band in the service to a warlord named Garakah. They were joined by goblorc raiders from the sea. If they are but one of many such groups massing at the edge of the kingdom, I fear some larger conspiracy is afoot. And sadly, I must inform you that High Priest Alfbjorn was slain in the attack. Regardless, I have no doubt that the Princess and Commander Rangerson will be eager to hear your news."

[Felhammer]

Croftborg is stunned by the news, "You... You cannot be serious? Orcs and Goblorcs attacked Starg together, in broad daylight?" He takes a few steps back to gather himself, "With the High Priest dead, I fear Moondale may fall on hard times..." He perform the Sign of the Four on his forehead. After a moment of silence, he asks, "If you can, my friend, have you heard any word from either the Princess or the Commander about how many soldiers they will be sending north? I fear Windshire may not hold for long if the orcs gather in large numbers."

[Othniel]

Saskia

Leaving the knights to do their...knight things, Saskia busied herself by examining the stock of horses the stablemaster kept. The tiefling eyed the beasts distrustfully and muttered to Kas, "We really need one of these? I once owned a horse for a short while. It bit me." Saskia frowned.

[BramsesII]

Kas


Saskia

"We really need one of these? I once owned a horse for a short while. It bit me."

"Really? Do you taste like carrots or something?" Kas laughs loudly. "You should've bitten it back. Horse is quite tasty."

A small grin appears on Kas' face. "Either way, unless you want to drink both kegs yourself we're going to need something to transport them."

[Othniel]

Saskia

"I did! And it is!" she responded. "But some folks are touchy about which animals are edible, and which are 'cuddly' you know. I guess horses fit into the latter group. I don't really feel like carrying an entire keg myself though, so I'll let Koval and the others figure it out." The temptation to keep the alcohol and put up with a horse was strong, but Saskia equally preferred being unburdened."

[BramsesII]

Kas

"I'm with you on that one. Let the others figure out how to tackle this particular alcoholic conundrum." It's not like Kas cares either way, as long as the situation is resolved.

"Now I'm wondering if you could make ale with carrots." The half-orc rubs her chin in thought.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As Natalie proved her worth in bluffing the stablemaster to attend to them first (and the nobleman into accepting it graciously), Hedwig turned and nodded approvingly to the gnome, a smile on her face.

Good job.

Stepping forward, and allowing Koval to converse with Sir Windlord and Kas and Saskia to talk amongst themselves, Hedwig opted to take the lead, remembering what Koval had advised the party on the way over.


"So... Stabling or buying...?"
"Buying, as a matter of fact, my good sir. For our mission, as my colleague said, we need an animal to help carry some rather precious cargo, as we will be going rather far off the beaten track and into some areas that will be, if you'll pardon the simplicity of my language, rather spooky. So we are in need of a good steed, one that will not fright or bolt readily. If you have one, a mule would be ideal, as in my experience they don't tend to frighten as much as horses do; if you don't, the most stout-hearted of your horses will suffice. And on the off-chance you sell them, a cart for the horse."

Obviously this gentleman is a stablemaster and not a cartwright, but it never hurts to ask. If he has any mules available, Hedwig is interested in a light cart; if he only has actual horses, a light wagon.

[Felhammer]

The stable master looks out at the yard and then replies, "I... Have one donkey, two mules and five horses for sale. I am not a cartwright but I do have a wagon I would be willing to part with."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Very almost. If it had been a small cart it would have been perfect, but a wagon is a bit much. If we had more time, we might visit a cartwright, but I believe the others wanted to leave as soon as possible. And thus, it seems we are left no choice.

I will miss you, delicious kegs of beer.

"One of your mules will do perfectly." Hedwig clasped her hands. "Now, as it happens, sir, I have the gold to pay you, but I have another offer, as well. Our party has come into the possession of two rather large kegs of beer, which we've left just outside. There's a lot of beer there, about 9 crowns worth, and I doubt we will be able to take it with us. If it is amenable to you, I would like to propose trading the beer for one of the mules."

True, you can't pay rent with beer, but it is 9 crowns worth of beer - and, as it happens, mules are worth 8 crowns (gp). YOu'd be able to drink for weeks, months even.

Diplomacy (to try to barter with the guy): [roll0]

[Felhammer]

The stable master licks his chops as he walks over to the kegs and gives each a tap with his foot. "That's a lot of alcohol. It'll keep my boys working hard, knowing there's a stein or two of this waiting for them at the end of the day." He looks over at a field hand and gives a nod. A few minutes later, a gigantic snow white mule is brought around. She is easily one of the largest mules you have ever laid eyes on. "Got her when one of my asses stayed the night in the same pen as one of them Maghemian draft horses. She's young but knows the ropes. The field hands have taken to calling her Sugar. Not the most original name, I suppose, but a name is a name." The stable master hands Hed the rope leash. "She's all your's. Treat her well and she'll follow you to the ends of the earth."

Sugar weighs 946 pounds, which puts here near the top of average for mules.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7c/5a/96/7c5a9698ad9a9d3d3e4360327fa4dedc.jpg

[Othniel]

Saskia

In a brief moment of uncharacteristic self-reflection, Saskia surmised that she was, at least to a small degree, similar to the mule before them: Strong and sturdy, and willing to follow to the ends of the earth if treated well. The comparison ceased there, however, as Saskia produced a sweet disposition only through great effort. "Sugar is a fine name. She doesn't bite, does she?"

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Oblivious to the deal being struck behind him, Koval continued in hushed tones.

"Alas that I am deathly serious, Sir. And while it gives me no pleasure to say it, the Princess and the Commander do not keep me in their confidences."

He paused a moment, fighting back a sigh.

"You will no doubt learn of this soon enough, but I did not arrive in Starg a knight. Indeed, I was dragged here as prisoner, accused of consorting with the fiends of Hell and sentenced to death. The attack gave me an opportunity to prove my honor with actions, and now the Princess has charged that I and my companions discover the truth of the infernal incursion. Were it not for these chains of duty that bind me, you would have another sword at your side when you returned north."

[Lord Of Mantas]

[QUOTE=Lord Of Mantas;22375406]Hedwig Gotlinde
[SIZE=1]Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Extending her hand, Hedwig shook the stablemaster's firmly. "The kegs, in turn, are all yours. A pleasure doing business with you."

Gently petting Sugar's mane, Hedwig took her by the reins and brought her over to where Koval and Sir Windlord were talking.

"When you are finished, Koval, we should try to get a good start while there's still light." She then turned to Sir Windlord. "And I believe the stablemaster should be ready for you, good sir."

[Felhammer]

Windlord recoils subtly when Koval reveals his recent past. "I... Do not know what to say. Few would reveal such sensitive information to a complete stranger. You have spared me from encountering this knowledge later in the day, from people that may not have the whole story or attempt to manipulate events in order to cast doubt and fear upon you and your companions. For that, you have my thanks.

Perhaps this devil business can be resolved quickly, so you may join my grandfather and I in the north."

The knight acknowledges Hed with a measure nod. He shakes Koval's hand once more before walking over to the Stable Master.

[Felhammer]

The party wishes the noble and Stables Master well, then sets off to the north with their new companion, Sugar. The party wanders up the meandering road for many hours before night begins to fall. the party hops off the road and heads off into a clearing that is, about, a hundred feet away. Thereupon, the group sets up camp. Night passes rather uneventfully. As the sun first crests the horizon, the party is roused from their slumber. They break down camp, don their armor, tighten up their backpacks and continue on northward. A chill wind is blowing from the north-west. Locals call this the Joyless Zephyr, for it foretells the end of Autumn and the beginning of Winter. Dark grey clouds are amassing in the sky, like an oncoming army. It will probably rain later today. Around noon time, the party spies a traveling merchant, a female gnome, heading towards the party. She is yanking a thickset donkey, who is pulling a small cart behind it, walking down the road. She wears bright yellow clothes. Her eyes light up when she spots the party.

She is about 100 feet away. What do you do?

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

The knight's reaction was more subdued than Koval had feared, filling him with an odd mixture of relief and regret. In better times, he might have found a friend in the young Windlord. As it was, he could but return the knight's solemn nod and grip his arm firmly in farewell. If fate smiled on them, perhaps they would enjoy a second meeting.

As Sir Windlord turned his attention to the stable master, Koval made his way back to the group. Seeing the exemplary pony they had procured, he smiled behind his helmet. Perhaps their luck was already turning.

"What a beast! You all surely have an eye for horse flesh. Come, help me fasten the casks to its flanks and we can be gone from here."

Later...

It had taken much of Koval's remaining patience not to subject Hedwig to an excoriating tirade when he learned how she'd bartered away his property. Whatever larcenous flaws his companions were stricken with, they were his companions. For the short term, at least. Instead, he had walked north in uncommon silence. Though of course, those around him could not have known to expect traveling songs as soon as they lost sight of the city gate. His rest had been fitful, broken by frequent bouts of wakefulness, but his meditations that morning had helped to center him. He marched at the front of the column as they sighted the brightly-garbed gnome. Motioning for the group to slow, he raised a hand and called out.

"A hallowed morn to you, traveler! What draws you to the old roads in defiance of winter's bite?"

[Felhammer]

The little gnome taps her outfit, turning it from a bland mustard yellow to a riotous cacophony of psychedelic rainbow colors! She jumps into the air, throwing fistfuls of luminous glitter, that sprinkle down upon the road, like cascading stardust. "I am Cydygdyp, the merchant extrordinaire!" The gnomes pushes her strawberry red hair behind her ears, "I hail from Micklewaif and have come to this dour land in order to spread joy, happiness and laughter! Tell me, fair friend, have you ever wished to possess a pouch from which you could draw forth an endless supply of oatmeal? What about a glass that fills with endless wine? What of a necklace that allows you to speak to Donkeys and Mules, as if they were people!? Have you ever wanted to to see the world as if the sun were always setting?"

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Do you just trundle around with glitter in your hands waiting to meet someone?" Saskia asked the alarmingly-colorful gnome. "Nevermind, don't answer that. Do you have a necklace that lets me speak to people as if they were donkeys and mules?"

"I'll tell you what," she said, without giving the gnome a chance to respond. "Keep heading toward the city. There's a bunch of folks there in need of joy, happiness, and laughter. Stick to those three subjects and they might not hang you." The outfit is crime enough.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig had been in a rather subdued mood ever since they had left.

It had not taken a genius, of course, to figure out that Koval "highly disapproved" of her bartering away the kegs, or that her explanation that the mule wouldn't have been able to carry the things without a cart had been a less-than-satisfactory one. She had only gotten about half-way through her subsequent revelation that she had thought the kegs were a communal item before she had ceased to speak entirely, realizing that it had sounded rather foolish when it was said out loud.

Well, you know what they say about assumptions, Hedwig. They make an ass out of you and me.

This would all have to be dealt with at some point, of course. Without a proper apology, conflict would inevitably bubble up, but...

The mission to Svelgild needs to be taken care of, first. Work out some tension, show that you can still be an effective teammate in battle. Then maybe it will have cooled enough to make some headway.

As they came across Cydygdyp, Hedwig raised an eyebrow at Saskia's response.

"Now, now, no need to be so harsh, Saskia." Hedwig spoke to the gnome.

"Money's a bit tight around here, sadly, but you wouldn't happen to have any stories or rumors to share?"

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie smiles at Hedwig's acknowledging her efforts, and remains mostly quiet the rest of the journey. Until they meet the gnome.

Natalie immediately uses her Hat of Disguise to copy the gnome. "HELLO MY FELLOW GNOME MY NAME IS ALICIA RARARARA DO YOU WANNA BE MY FRIEND" she asks, shouting and running in the girl's direction, jumping at her when she has the chance.

It's time to play a game I like to call: GUESS! I'll jump at her, try to make her fall (which I might fail miserably) and tumble around in the ground for a bit with her, to try and make everyone in the party guess who is who. I'll roll what I believe to be necessary.

Disguise: [roll0]
Bluff (to try and mimic her voice): [roll1]
Strength to get her to the ground? [roll2]

[Felhammer]

Before the Gnome can answer Hedwig, Natalie lunges atop the poor merchant! A bottle of glitter gets kicked over in the process, clouding the two gnomes behind a twinkling veil of sparkles. As the glitter settles, the two gnomes stand up.

Natalie walks back over to her party and laughs, "Hehe, sorry, I love meeting other Gnomes!"

You noticed when you lunged on the woman, she cast a double disguise person, so each of you look like the other person!

[Othniel]

Saskia

Blinking several times at the bizarre behavior, Saskia merely stood in place. She'd momentarily felt chagrined after being scolded by the cleric for her sarcastic greeting, but that was quickly replaced with surprise and exasperation. "What even...?" She looked at Kas. "Is this normal gnome behavior, or should we be concerned?"

[Taya]

Cydygdyp

"Oh, you don't need to worry!" says the colourful gnome, getting up and taking some dust off of her dress. "It's not normal gnome behaviour, but she tickles my fancy! I like you, Alicia!" she says, before turning back to Hedwig. "But, I'm glad you asked, sister!" she continues, very happily. "I have travelled a lot in my life, and, say... Do you know how ALL of this she makes a gesture, extending her arms and looking around before going back to look at Hedwig was created?"

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas, having spent most of the trip so far quiet, occasionally chatting with Saskia or Natalie, is taken quite by surprise by the sudden gnome craziness. She looks at Saskia who apparently values the half-orc's insight on gnome behavior. "I've no idea. Gnomes usually avoided me until now. Maybe they think I'll eat them or something." She scratches her head. "I don't think my stomach could handle this much color, though."

[Felhammer]

Natalie

Natalie wanders around the party like a small child. She stops in front of Kas and smiles, "Well, I don't think human OR orc meat would sit well in the stomach of a Gnome. Too thick and... Meaty." She sticks her tongue out and pantomimes puking. "We gnomes prefer lighter things, like poultry! Harpies! Harpies. Now there's a race I could eat! Slather some lemon juice on a roasted harpy... With a side of stuffing and cranberries... Maybe a light ale or a sweet mead... YUM!"

[Othniel]

Saskia

"We could try. I could squeeze the color right out of their faces," Saskia said to Kas, smiling in a wide, toothsome smile that held no mirth.

She stared coldly at the one that looked like Natalie. "Are you done? Can we go now? All this magic is making my skin crawl," The tiefling was irritated, annoyed, and clearly impatient to be moving. She was repeatedly clenching and relaxing her fists as if going through the motions of strangulation. "We haven't put nearly enough miles between us and the city for my comfort." She had resisted the urge to throw a few orbs of force at the gnomes, but only barely. She didn't want to reveal to the others that she could cast spells until she had to. Trust didn't come easy for the tiefling, after all, and she'd only just met these people. The half-orc and half-elf were growing on her, though the cleric and paladin made her scales itch.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas stayed out of the transactions. He knew basically nothing about bartering, and so it was better to leave things to those experienced with these things.

He walked mostly in silence, considering their duties, only for his thoughts to be interrupted by random gnome hijinks. He couldn't help but crack a smile. "So how was everything created?" he called out

[Taya]

Cydygdyp

The little gnome cracks up a smile. "Some time ago in a long distant foreign land, the people and the books tell stories about a man. It could be a woman - gender was not a thing at that time of existence. They were alone, walking at nothingness. Nothing existed yet - only their presence. But yet, he kept walking, mindlessly at the nothing right before him. But one time, they snapped their fingers. It's curious, because it's described as his first interaction with anything at all, before that, they only... walked. They found it interesting, and kept snapping their own fingers." Cydygdyp starts snapping her own fingers repeatedly. "They kept snapping and snapping for who knows how long. Until BANG" the small girl makes a sudden noise, yelling and widening her eyes. She stops snapping. "A spark. A spark of fire and light, created through their fingers. That - was the first magic. But they were not fazed by it, and kept on snapping." She goes back to snapping her own fingers. "And as they kept on snapping, the magic increased, until one day... The most powerful magic ever, with their last snap... She stops snapping once more. the world was created. Not with a sudden bang, but with a gradual magic, that, within time, created light and darkness, land and water, life, and death. This, was how the world came to be - no one knows where they are now, and some speculates that the gods are each a peace of what one they was the true supreme being, but for now, all they know is that one day, there was a spell so powerful, it could create whole planes of existence. And that - was only a spell of eighth cycle." She finishes, smiling.

This is complete bull**** made up on spot

Bluff with Silver Tongue (7/9): [roll0]

[Felhammer]

Natalie

The gnome adventurer pulls a sliver of jerky from her pocket and starts munching on it as the Merchant explains how everything was created. As the merchant finishes the tale, Natalie gasps, "WWWWWOOOOWWWWW! That's amazing! Miss Cydygdyp must be the smartest gnome in the whole world! No wonder her wares are so unique and stunning! She must put a lot of effort into designing and developing her goods!"

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig had paid an almost rapturous attention as "Cydygdyp" wove her tale of the creation of the world, almost to the point of being unblinking.

At "Natalie's" compliment of "Cydygdyp", this was broken, however, and she chuckled a little bit.

You also forgot to add that Cydygdyp is very beautiful and can make men-gnomes swoon with just a look (http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/ButHeSoundsHandsome).

"Well, that was definitely a rather riveting tale, Miss Cydygdyp. I probably wouldn't tell it with a few hundred feet of any churches, though. I'm pretty sure that particular folk tale does not mesh with Imperial Church doctrine."

Not that I give a rat's behind if it does.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Unable to discern which of the two gnomes were which, Koval turned towards Saskia as they continued their antics.

"Indeed, and it would be unwise to tarry while dark forces gather."

Turning his head, he saw the two supposed warriors of religious virtue enraptured by the childish game. Typical, that they would so easily shrug off the potential danger awaiting them. Catching the end of the creation tale, he called out.

"Unless you intend for us to abandon our mission in favor of joining a circus, we should move on. Unless you intend more riveting attempts at making light of cannibalism?"

[Estralita]

Lukas

Between the craziness of the switch, the story, and "Natalie's" praise of the merchant, Lukas couldn't hold it in anymore. He burst out laughing. "Oh, come on. What's the harm any of it?"

[Othniel]

Saskia

By way of response, Saskia simply turned away in the direction they'd been traveling and started walking.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig looked on as Saskia made her reply to Lukas by way of walking away without a further word.

A touch brusque, but...

"She does have a point. We shouldn't delay too much longer."

Hedwig turned her attention to "Natalie" (really Cydygdyp).

"I do apologize that we can't stop and talk longer, but before we go, is there anything that you've spotted on the road recently that looks out of place?"

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[BramsesII]

Kas

After the initial surprise wears off, Kas ignores most of the gnome craziness. Bursting out laughing at the insanity would probably be bad for the tough girl image that every proper half-orc should project. She's very glad then when Saskia simply walks off, and the half-orc immediately follows. When the pair are out of immediate hearing distance, Kas turns to the tiefling with a big grin. "Thanks. I nearly lost it at that crazy story. Would be bad for my image."

[Felhammer]

Natalie

The gnome nods to her companions, "Yes. We best head out."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Doing a double take, Hedwig re-evaluated her position.

Hedwig rolls 26 on Perception. She is now convinced that "Natalie" is Natalie, and is rather confused.

Natalie seems like herself... but she was acting in a way I would expect the merchant to... Gah! Confused!

Hedwig shook her head.

"I'll take that as a no. Whichever one is the real Natalie, please don't tarry too long."

She then hurried after the rest of the party.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Thanks. I nearly lost it at that crazy story. Would be bad for my image."

"It would probably cement mine as the vicious devil-girl. I'd rather avoid that. I'm really a nice person. Some of the time, anyway. Get into a few fights here and there, maybe beat someone senseless if he gets too fresh or break a nose if I get a funny look. But flat-out murder someone? Naw. I don't need a price on my head." Saskia shrugged and shook her head. "And I try to balance it out a little, y'know? Take a contract from someone who can't pay or something. It's worth it for the look on their faces when you tell them you don't need money. And kids, yeah? You don't mess with kids. That makes me real angry."

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas looked back and forth between the two gnomes, hopelessly confused. Then he took a deep breath, and rubbed the back of his head. "I'm not going to say this wasn't great, but Koval is right. We do have an important mission, and anything you've seen could be important.

Honesty is the best policy?

[roll0]

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Following along behind Saskia and Kas, Koval chuckled at the tiefling's mention of earning a price on her head.

"You know, they only put a price on your head if there are witnesses to report the crime."

His wink was invisible behind his helmet, but his tone made the joke clear enough.

[Taya]

Cydygdyp

She laughs audibly as people get confused by the illusions, and rushes to the other gnome. She hugs her and spins, deactivating her disguise self mid spin.

Natalie

"Thank you, Cydygdyp! I had a really fun time! Sorry I can't tag along for more, but I do have a mission to carry." She kisses her on the cheek and goes in the direction of the nearest party member. "My name is Natalie, by the way! I hope we can find each other again when we have the time to sit and chat!" She waves goodbye and goes to Lukas (he seems to be the only one who didn't start walking). "Sorry about the mess - I couldn't resist the chance for a little joke. With another gnome, nonetheless!" she starts walking in the direction of the other party members. She looks back and waves goodbye a last time.

[Felhammer]

Cydygdyp drops the illusion, returning herself and Natalie to their normal appearance. With a happy smile, she says, It was fun playing with you and your friends, Miss Natalie. I hope that we will meet one another again... Just, stay away from Micklewaif. The Eldritch Knight of the Ruby have been looking for "volunteers" to join their order. It would be a shame for someone as kind-hearted as you to be conscripted.

Turning to the others, "As for other rumors, I heard Count Hammerlord is meeting with Countess Maliva Bravepriest of Bravekirk... Oh and Bandits have been spotted along the road to Rosbrea, so be careful. I didn't see any but then again, when danger strikes, I just turn invisible..."

[BramsesII]

Kas


Saskia
"It would probably cement mine as the vicious devil-girl. I'd rather avoid that. I'm really a nice person. Some of the time, anyway. Get into a few fights here and there, maybe beat someone senseless if he gets too fresh or break a nose if I get a funny look. But flat-out murder someone? Naw. I don't need a price on my head." Saskia shrugged and shook her head. "And I try to balance it out a little, y'know? Take a contract from someone who can't pay or something. It's worth it for the look on their faces when you tell them you don't need money. And kids, yeah? You don't mess with kids. That makes me real angry."

"Actually, I meant..." Kas stops there. It's probably better for her tough girl image not to correct Saskia's assumption by telling the tiefling that she found the gnome antics pants-wettingly hilarious. "I mean... You're right."

"It's not the price on your head that'll get to you though. The guilt is way way worse." The half-orc shakes her head.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Having caught up with the others as Saskia finished talking and Koval made his joke, Hedwig was slightly out of breath.


"You know, they only put a price on your head if there are witnesses to report the crime."

"Of course, then there's the trouble of witnesses coming in at the most inopportune times. One of my sisters used to pilfer cheese from the aging sheds, and it got to the point where her and the Mothers got into an ever-escalating war over her trying to sneak in and them setting ever-more elaborate traps, as well as regular checks to make sure she was where she was supposed to be. I think invisibility potions were used at one point by both parties. But the climax came, actually, the one time she managed to give them the slip. Apparently, she managed to slip away while they were distracted when a couple of my other sisters got injured in a spar gone wrong. She sneaks into the shed via a trapdoor, grabs a cheese, and is about to eat it, when, of all things, a stray chicken clucks at her and nearly scares her out of her wits. Apparently, the bird 'stared into her soul' so much that she broke down, put the cheese back, and promptly confessed."

"Of course, the real kicker is, we don't even keep chickens. We're still not entirely sure how it got in there, to be honest."

Obtuse Skyrim jokes are still funny, right?

[Othniel]

Saskia

"I could go for a roast chicken right about now," said the bloodrager, as her stomach announced its presence at the mention of food. "Or a steak, extra rare." She turned to Koval and gave him a look. "How far did you say this place was?"

[Estralita]

Lukas

Not exactly what he was hoping to hear. Although Lukas didn't want to hear about a Devil rampaging about the countryside either, so..."Thank you, miss. I look forwards to examining your wares at another time. But right now, there's something very important we need to do first.

With that, Lukas hurried off after the departing group. "She hasn't seen anything that points to a devil, or any fiend really. But things aren't great in the area. Bandits around Rosbrea, conscription in Micklewaif. Oh, and Count Hammerlord is meeting with a Countess Maliva Bravepriest." He paused, trying to remember what he knew about the Countess. It had been awhile since he had spent time in noble company.

Knowledge(Nobility):

[roll0]

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As Lukas and Natalie caught up with the group, Hedwig thanked Almahara silently that the paladin had had the patience to stay as he shared his information.

"Well, we're not heading toward Rosbrea, so we should be fin- Wait. Countess Bravepriest?"

Hedwig frowned, a mixture of anger and worry on her face.

That... that dog who tried to beat up the locals just because they were patronizing the Convent?

"Well, this lends credence to the theory that Hammerlord is trying to set me up, at least, if he's consorting with an anti-monastic thug." Disgust was immediately apparent in Hedwig's voice.

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas's teeth clenched, as Hedwig reminded him who exactly the Countess was. "Set us up.
I'm from a monastery as well."

Although was that the reason? Or the only reason? The church wasn't exactly fond of Oracles either...

[Taya]

Natalie

As Natalie approaches the rest of the group, Lukas relays the new found information to the rest of the group. Then, Hedwig's expression changed. "So, uh, care to fill us in what happened between you guys and that... thug Countess?

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig turned to Lukas.

"You guys too? Well, that just makes it worse."

She then answered Natalie's question.

"Countess Bravelord is one of the most powerful priestesses of the Imperial Church in all of Moondale, to the point where her parish is an official county. She's a dogged supporter of the old ways and will often travel to Starg to rail against us monasteries and how we're a danger to the true faith. But most infuriatingly, well... we don't have definitive proof, per se, but we have a circumstantial evidence that suggests she sent a bunch of goons to beat up our local parishioners and keep them from patronizing the convent."

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas, being her usual tactful self, butts into the conversation. "Oh yes, I've heard of her. I think she's in the Order of the Severed Head. Sounds cheerful, doesn't it?" She looks at Hedwig. "They're out to dismantle all the monasteries. The things you hear when you work in a temple for a while. It'd surprise you. Anyway... I've heard she's allied to bishop Krigwulf. They get along real well."

The half-orc then turns her attention back to the road. "Let's hope we don't bump into their cronies then. I doubt they'll be very friendly. I wouldn't mind a bandit or two to disembowel, though."

[Othniel]

Saskia

"Never had a run-in until recently - that I know of - until our recent adventures with the Churchy folks, but it's entirely possible I offended someone in the past." She paused and a smirk flashed across her face. "Likely, really. Anyway, I'm sorta from the area roundabouts Moondale, or at least that's where my ma 'n' da raised me. I vote for avoiding the militant priests and for thumping bandits instead. You could say that's a specialty of mine."

[Felhammer]

The party marches northward along Reunion Road. The weather grows ever more bitter as they day continues. Storm clouds gather in the sky, like an army mustering for battle. A lonely bridge spans a narrow portion of the river. The bridge looks to have originally been made by ancient orcs, with thick black metal bars. Sometime later, it looks like the Empire partially repaired the bridge, adding stonework to the design, and placing two gargoyles at each end of the bridge. Given traditional funerary practices of the Empire, these Gargoyles must represent four people who died around the time the bridge was repaired. Perhaps they were workers who died in an accident, or maybe just locals who happened to pass away.

Saskia is the first to feel a raindrop or two, then Koval, and then the whole party as the heavens open up, pouring rain down upon the land. The group of companions rushes eastward, into the edges of the Moon Woods, attempting to find some shelter from the downpour. The Moon Wood is an old growth forest, like the much-vaunted forests of southern Maghemia (before a massive, magical fire burned the vast majority of those forests down). Many of the trees in the forest have been around for longer than the Empire graced Cloudheart. Druids in service to St. Rowan supposedly haunt the woodland, protecting the oldest trees from being felled. They even whisper that a Treent lives in the woods, somewhere. Probably not around here...

The party walks along the edge of the woodland, shadowing the River Princess. Eventually the woodlands drift eastward, while the river drifts west. Leaving the Princess behind, the companions venture off into virgin woodlands. The rain has made the ground soggy, muddy and slick. More than a few times Hed almost slips and falls. For whatever reason, Kas seems to be the most surefooted, not slipping or tripping once.

Kas believes the group has arrived in the area near where Svelgild is located but since none of the party has ever been there, no one knows exactly where it is. After stumbling around in the torrential downpour for about an hour, Lukas chances upon some stone stairs, half overgrown with moss and bushy vines. The stonework is clearly of elven design, as each step is about a three inches too short for comfort. The stairs wind their way up a small hillock. As the party nears the crest, they spy a ruin. It was once a large domed building, perhaps seventy feet round. Much of the roof and walls have caved in or collapsed, debris is strewn around both the exterior and interior of the building.

An eerie, magical light seeps out of the building. Due to the rain, it is difficult to make anything out but it appears as if someone is still inside...

[Othniel]

Saskia

"How do you folks wanna do this? Sneak up on them, or the fun way?" Saskia's tone of voice and the way she gripped the hilt of her greatsword left no doubt as to which way she'd prefer.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

"Preferably the not-fun way. It is less entertaining, but it will let us get the drop on whoever's in there."

Whichever way the party does this, Hedwig will cast Bless on everyone right as they descend.

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

As they crested the rise and saw witchlight flickering through the gloom, Koval loosened his scabbard and drew his black sword without a word. At Saskia's question, he gave her a long wordless look, before finally responding with a soft shake of his head. Gesturing towards the door with the tip of his blade, he crept forwards as best he could.

Stealth!
[roll0]

[Felhammer]

https://s26.postimg.org/5i7slzr2h/Ruin1.png

Koval creeps forward, his feet kicking several loose rocks, one of which clangs against the wall of the building. The shadowy figure turns around, slowly. He peers out, resting his hand above his eyes. "Koval? Is that you?" The man's voice is ominous and dark, slightly distorted. "Did you escape? How?" The man is wearing a thick black robe, with the hood up. The ambient, unnatural light in the building is coming from a flaming sword, whose blade is buried in a boulder. The man walks around two stone chairs, thrones really,. He walks down a few steps, "Come in. Come in."


https://s26.postimg.org/skybl5sjt/Ruin2.png

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Hedwig tensed up as Koval kicked the rocks loose, dropping into a low stance.

There goes surprise...

But then, as the figure inside took notice of them - and greeted them cordially - she relaxed, confusion apparent in her face.

"What in Almahara's name..."

She turned to the occultist.

"Do - do you know him?"

Turning her attention to the flaming sword, Hedwig tried to think of any groups she knew of that had such a symbol in their iconography.

Hedwig tries to recall any groups that have a Flaming Sword as a symbol.

History: 11
Religion: 18

[Felhammer]

You recolonize the design as being old Blackvalian, from a time before the Empire came to Cloudheart (when the style and design of weapons drastically changed). As you stare at the blade, you see the word, "Kastori" has been stamped into it.

Kastori is a heathen god from before the Empire shone its religious light upon the ignorant masses who lived in Cloudheart. Kastori was a butcher, with gruesome, savage acts carried out in his name. Another heathen god, Kado, is known to secretly craft powerful magical items for Kastori, which Kastori uses to arm his devoted followers. But these are mere legends. Tales told to gullible people. Mere legends. The ancient gods do not exist. This weapon was clearly made by a smith who was probably in service to some vile barbarian conqueror.


The hooded figure nods, "I know of Koval... And of you, Hed. And of your friends, Natalie, Krighaka, Darrik, Kas, Lukas, Taavo and Saskia. We spent much time together, recently too. Do, do you not remember me? I am Ledvin of... The North." He takes a few steps back and beckons you to walk into the ruin.

[Othniel]

Saskia

Momentarily enthralled by the flaming sword, Saskia stared, heedless of the fact that they'd been so easily discovered. She'd always been fascinated by fire, and marrying it to a blade seemed to her a wondrous thing. "I need me one of those," she said.

"I know of Koval... And of you, Hed. And of your friends, Natalie, Krighaka, Darrik, Kas, Lukas, Taavo and Saskia. We spent much time together, recently too. Do, do you not remember me? I am Ledvin of... The North."

"I don't know about those other names, but If you're about to tell me that we summoned a devil together, then I'm about to get very upset, mister!" Saskia patted the hilt of her greatsword, its sheathed blade resting upon her shoulder, and gave "Ledvin" a mirthless smile. "No matter how pretty your flaming sword might be."

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

As the hooded man addressed her in what was, for her taste, far too casual of a tone, Hedwig began to frown.

An old weapon, from the old empire, imprinted with the name of a false god that was known to be a butcher besides? And this man, claiming to know us, is in its presence? To say this is suspicious is to call the ocean damp.

Hedwig spoke, her tone rather stern.

"That is Sister to you, or Hedwig if you must, and my companion -" she gestured to Saskia, "Raises a salient point. The six of us woke up about a week ago, in a dark ruin, around a summoning circle in this area that had been used to bring forth a devil. We were then surrounded, accused of being the ones responsible, and sentenced to death by drawing and quartering, and it was only by good fortune that we were spared and offered the chance at clemency by tracking it down. Prior to this, we had no knowledge of each other, and none of those other names are familiar."

"If you know anything about what has happened - and by your familiarity, it seems you do - I would compel you to tell us."

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas tensed as the person called out to Koval. His eyes narrowed slightly as the an called out to Koval, only to widen in surprise as the man seemed to know all of them, including him. He said nothing as the other's addressed the man, instead attempting to get a read on the man himself, and see if he actually believed what he was saying.

Time to Sense some Motives!

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

The man retreats back farther into the ruin as the party walks in. "Oh, Sister Hedwig, how could I forget? Silly me, you always were one for formality." He brushes off Saskia's comment with a sweep of his hand, "Devil? No. Don't be silly. DevilS. Three to be precise. Not that I wanted to, as you may or may not remember. Silly idea. Never know what the devils will do once they are bound to the mortal plane. I told you as much but did you listen to me? No, no. I was just a silly old man with old fashioned ideas. Don't listen to me. Show us how to summon all three! We worship them, Ledvin! They won't hurt us!"

Bah!" He throws his hands up, "Tell that to poor Taavo!"

His voice grows cold and distant, "I've never seen a man's skin burned off before... Horrifying sight. I do not think I will ever forget the way he screamed... Such horror in his voice. Disturbing, to say the least."

"Tell me, why have you returned? Hammerlord's men might be watching... Or worse..."

Seems to be telling the truth

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Despite the fact that he gave no tells off, Hedwig could only think of one thing.

He's lying. He has to be! None of us would ever do such a thing willingly! And how does he know of Hammerlord? He must have set us up!

Okay, Hedwig. Calm down. What's the last thing you remember from... before?

Hedwig will, indeed, attempt to recall her last memory from before she woke up around the Summoning circle.

[Felhammer]

Hed remembers a... Fire. Burning orange. Sitting next to a female Undine. You were cooking a rabbit.... Talking about how you were excited for what was going to happen the next day...

[Taya]

Natalie

Natalie watches in disbelief at everything the man is saying. Even if it seemed like he is telling the truth - it doesn't matter. But that could not be the truth.

"'Not that you wanted to'? Do you mean we forced you to help us summon these devils?" Natalie is angry, and that is very clear within her tone of voice."You know, I like to believe I know a thing or two about lies." She says, stepping forward a few feet. "And I like to separate lies within two categories: True lies, and false truths. A true lie comes from within the soul, and is, in itself, a false statement. In the other hand, a false truth is something that the person does believe it's the truth, while in reality, it is not. And I believe you fall within the second category. So, tell me, Sir. If we do not remember anything that happened on that night..." she takes a deep breath, looking to him in the eye.

"How do you remember?"

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas has been quiet ever since they were discovered. In fact, she even was quiet when Koval kicked loose a few rocks and alerted this creep to their presence. The frustration of that moment has been slowly evolving into anger ever since the man started talking. She eventually steps up behind Natalie after the gnome's question, her arms crossed.

"Aye, please do tell us how you remember. Because if you do know who we are, you also know the things I can do with a knife, a grappling hook, and various orifices in the human body."

[Othniel]

Saskia

That was the wrong answer, and while the tiefling's immediate impulse was to cut down the mysterious man who repeated the nonsense about devil-summoning, she tamped down on it while the others spoke. She didn't believe what she was hearing, but she needed to know what happened, even if it meant listening to the lies and then sifting the truth from them.

[Felhammer]

The man sighs, "I know what you can do with a knife, Kas but... I believe you will find such skills to be less... Useful... Against me." He turns to Natalie and responds, "I was afraid this was going to happen. Your devil friends made you drink a potion before Hammerlord's men arrived. Made you forget what happened. They... Well one of them, didn't want you to squeal like newborn pigs if the Count tortured you. As for me, Darrik blackmailed me. He has has something... Dear to me. He said he would give it back to me if I helped him with this summoning business. The Devils made him give it to them instead. Now I am at their mercy just as much as you lot. I wish Darrik had not forced me to help him. It was a sad day for Cloudheart. I fear what may come from this.

You recolonize the design as being old Blackvalian, from a time before the Empire came to Cloudheart (when the style and design of weapons drastically changed). As you stare at the blade, you see the word, "Kastori" has been stamped into it.

Kastori is a heathen god from before the Empire shone its religious light upon the ignorant masses who lived in Cloudheart. Kastori was a butcher, with gruesome, savage acts carried out in his name. Another heathen god, Kado, is known to secretly craft powerful magical items for Kastori, which Kastori uses to arm his devoted followers.

You have heard stories of Angels secretly coming to the mortal realm, finding ancient weapons, cleansing them of their heathen taint and then blessing them for the righteous to use. Perhaps that is what has happened with this blade?


He seems to be telling the truth but he's not being wholly honest, either.

[Taya]

Natalie

There being no way this is true, Natalie is left with only one suitable option. She focus on the man, and uses her Mind Reading ability at him.

DC: 18, but I might be wrong (can't access my sheet)
Mind Reader (Sp): At 3rd level, you can read minds as a spell-like ability. This ability acts like detect thoughts, except it lasts only 1 round, you use it on a single target as a standard action, and if the target fails its Will save, you gain information as if you had concentrated on it for 3 rounds. You may use this ability once per day at 3rd level and one additional time per day for every four sorcerer levels you possess beyond 3rd, up to five times per day at 20th level.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Analyzing the man suspiciously as he spoke, Hedwig pinched the bridge of her nose, frustration evident in her features.

There has to be something he's deliberately leaving out.

"That's all well and good, but none of this addresses a very basic thing. None of us, in our past lives, would have ever willingly summoned or consorted with fiendish forces. Particularly NOT I or he!" Hedwig gestured to Lukas. "Why, then, did we allegedly summon that trio of devils? Who is Derrik? And who - " Hedwig narrowed her eyes, "are you, exactly?"

Already said this on Discord, but Sense Motive me again!

+13

[Felhammer]

The man yawns, "Why did you want to summon a devil? I have no idea. Derrik was in charge. I had more important things to worry about than the petty motivations of his friendly underlings. The man was blackmailing me AND wanted to summon devils, so clearly he was not a good guy."

You read his mind.

You see a snow-covered ruin. The man is standing on some sort of platform or roof. A female gnoll garbed only in tribal fetishes is next to him, a female human warrior clad in plate mail stands behind him. Beneath him, down in the streets of the ruin, are hundreds of gnolls, harpies, catfolk and moosemen. They are all looking up at the man, expectantly. The man casts his gaze skyward and spies an airship that is hurtling towards the ruin. The man feels both hatred and love, cascading against one another like a stormy sea and a rocky shore. Suddenly the gnoll disappears. The human female draws her blade. Two sift strikes and the man collapses. You feel overwhelming anger and unmitigated sadness.

Then you see a darkened room. The man is lying on a stone bed. A male human with a shaven haircut and a well trimmed goatee stands above the man, smiling with a devilish grin.

Sadness... No disappointment washes over the man.

Then the spell ends.

https://s26.postimg.org/3zye5e5p5/Derrik.png

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Definitely omitting things.

"And there that name comes back around again. Who is this Derrik person, who has apparently got you by the neck and organized all.... this?"

[Felhammer]

"Derrik is his birth name. More properly, he is known as Grand Sorcerer Baludoch (which means something like "One Who Reaps Death" in infernal or some malarkey like that!). The cult has many names but Derrik prefers to call it the Tricorn Cult. Derrik is a real piece of work and a nasty little whelp. Got the drop on me when I was waking up." He curses under his breath, "Little bastard." He then continues, "I didn't pay much attention to what the cult wanted to do. Given their diabolic leanings, I imagine they want to take over Grimgorge or something and rule it as their own. Honestly, I didn't pay attention to Derrik's little monologues that much. He's a self important wind bag, if you ask me.

[Lord Of Mantas]

Hedwig Gotlinde
Level 5 Cleric (Herald Caller)
HP: 50/50 | AC: 18 | Attack Bonus: +3 | Status: --

Alright. We're getting closer to some answers. We have a name, we have a who, we just need a where. We find Derrik, we find out what he did with our memories.

"Then that raises three important questions."

"One. Where do we find Derrik? Two. Did he leave anything of note behind here in these ruins? Three. Do you have any idea what he did with the devils, or where they went?"

[Othniel]

Saskia

The others seemed to want to talk to the crazy old coot, so Saskia let them. She could always smash him later, if she decided he was responsible for the mess she was in. "I didn't summon a devil! I didn't!" she repeated to herself, quietly but forcefully. The tiefling didn't trust anything she couldn't see with her own two eyes, or told to her by someone she considered a reputable source: people who were very few, and very fare between. And even then, she'd check it twice. She'd been burned before, badly.

Saskia's impatience, however, was getting the better of her. "I got some questions of my own, pal. Starting with who the hells are you, and what the hells kind of item is so precious that you'd help summon devils for? Yeah, I know you said Ledvin, but that's just a name. And "The North" is kinda vague."

Intimidate! [roll0]

[Estralita]

Lukas

Lukas hung back as the others interrogated the man. Lukas had the feeling that this man really didn't know that much more than them, and might have had his own mind screwed with as well. But he did know something, and they needed to know what, so he glared in the man's direction and crossed his arms in a display of solidarity with Saskia. If the man screwed with her, he screwed with Lukas as well.

Hoping I'm aiding correctly:

[roll0]

[Felhammer]

Ledvin looks a bit shocked at Saskia's ferocity - and the fact that Lukas would aid in her verbal assault. "I am Ledvin, I come from Maghemia. I am but an old man. A dabble in magic, but who in Maghemia does not? I am a historian, a lover of tall tales and grand legends. I studied in Scrollford, specializing in the history and culture of the beastfolk who live on Warblade Isle. I am widely regarded as the fore most expert on such lore. My studies have taken me up and down the isle. I have learned much in my travels... A portion of my of my vast knowledge was need by Derrik to permanently conjure the devils. He was impressed with a similar feat I had performed many, many years ago." He waves his hand to dissuade any hint of fear or surprise, "No, no. Not devils. Gnolls. Specifically, a great warrior, a legendary leader of their people. He united the Gnolls and ushered in a golden age for his people... Until a dragon got involved..." He shakes his head, "But, that is a tale for a different time. As for the item, well, let us just say that it is a family heirloom. A token of gratitude, given to me by my favorite professor. He passed away, decades ago. It is all I have left of him, sadly. I would do anything to get it back..."

He turns his gaze to Hed, "No. I am not sure where the infernals went. Hammerlord's men attacked too suddenly. It was chaos, honestly. All the little cultists and their pawns fleeing. Not sure where anyone went, really.

"As for Derrik, like the devils, I do not know where he scurried off to. I would go looking for Krighaka. Her family lives in the east, near Skald. Lovely little town. If I were not so busy, I would probably open a small book store in Skald. Such a quaint, pleasant place. Do be kind. She was only a pawn. Her heart was never really in this venture... Then again, I don't think anyone's heart really was. Except for Derrik...

[TheDarkDM]

Koval

Though he had remained silent as his supposed accomplices took turns questioning the old man, Koval watched the proceedings intently. The stranger made play at infirmity, yet seemed wholly unconcerned by the naked metal surrounding him. Worse, he apparently possessed intimate knowledge of the man who had ensnared them in the devilish web. If indeed, such a man even existed.

"How convenient, that our only lead should take us further from the center of the Dale and into the path of the rousing orcs. All in pursuit of a name none of us remember, to disprove a crime I have yet to see compelling evidence of occurring. Do you have some token, old man, to support this wild tale? Or are we to believe the word of a stranger in the wilderness solely on faith?"

[Taya]

Natalie

As the mind reading ended, Natalie stood in her place, flabbergasted. That was not at all what she was expecting. She spent some time thinking over it, trying to understand what happened, when the man himself said something about the gnolls. Natalie takes a step back, now standing behind Kas, almost supporting herself on her leg.

"Gnolls, harpies, catfolk, moosemen." she says, watching very, very carefully his reaction. "His story checks out, I don't think he is lying. At the very least, I'm sure he is not lying about that part." She says, still trying to make sense of her vision. "So, let me see if I got this correctly. You summoned a very strong Gnoll of a distant time?"

[BramsesII]

Kas

Kas remains quiet. Let the others talk to the madman. She does take a moment to put her hand on the hilt of her sword, and when Natalie hides behind her the half-orc widens her stance protectively.

[Felhammer]

Orcs?" The old man laughs, "Orcs are everywhere. They are a disease that plagues the surface world." He looks at Kas, "No offense, but let us be honest. The world would be a better place if the orcs returned to their native Underland home..."

The East has orcs, the west has orcs. Hell, the whole mountain range is littered with orcs! The only reason Maghemia doesn't have orcs is because the Beastfolk keep them at bay..."

He stares into Koval's eyes, "You want to see proof? I can show you proof."

Ledvin stomps one foot on the ground. A flame erupts from his boot print. The fire rushes across the raised, circular dais. For a moment, you think Ledvin will be burned alive... Only he is not. The flames... Are moving along a track. Crisscrossing back and forth and around the dais. A few seconds later, Ledvin smiles, "Here is your proof!"

He backs away. The party creeps forward and... Finds that the dais has been turned into a flaming pentagram! At the end of each point, is a circle, roughly large enough for a person to stand within. In the middle of the pentagram, bathed in flame, are the two throne chairs.

"This, this is the proof you need. This is dark, maleficent magic. Magic that is both vile and profane."

You smell the overwhelming stench of brimstone.

You smell the overwhelming stench of brimstone. You feel a great sense of unease. This place suddenly feels... Evil. You have a strong urge to run away; to leave here and never return.

You smell the overwhelming stench of brimstone mixed with the scent of blood. You feel a great sense of unease. This place suddenly feels... Evil. You have a strong urge to run away; to leave here and never return. After a few moments, you are overwhelmed by the presence of evil. A crushing, throbbing headache booms inside of your head. You can feel tiny clawed hands grasping at your ankles. You hear whispers in your mind that beg you to bring them to the mortal realm, they plead with you to spill the blood of the innocent. They say that that is all they need in order to conjure a gateway. They say you will be greatly rewarded for your efforts. Images of beautiful men and women dance in your head, images of vast vaults filled with gold and gems appear in your minds eye, images of hundreds of prostrating serfs bow before your magnificence fill your brain. The pain in your head is almost too much to bear. Tears of anguish stream from your eyes. It takes all your inner strength not to cry out in pain.

Do you see NOW!? The devils are real. You must hunt them down and banish them back to Hell, or else they will wreak havoc in your beloved Queendom. I do not care if you succeed or not. I will survive, I will live on. Your friends, your lovers, your family... They will either be killed or they will be enslaved. I made a mistake helping Derrik... You six must rectify that mistake. I cannot risk getting involved. This quest falls upon the six of you. You must do anything and everything to counter the Tricorn Cult, or lest they will defeat you.

Ledvin stomps the ground again. The fires dissipate.

You are all that stands between them and their dreams of conquest..."

A ball of flame streaks across the ruin, barely missing Ledvin.

"Ah, ah, ah. You should stop right there. Your part in this little play is over, vile one," says a disembodied voice coming from the dense foliage outside.

"No."

"Oh, yes. It is I, Lord Seer Shadakouzhar!" A man steps into the light. He is six feet tall and has a lithe, almost sickly frame. His long, gaunt face bears a frown of disappointment. "I see the six have gathered again. I assumed they would have been killed by Hammerlord. Interesting that they were not hung. Perhaps they are craftier than we had given them credit for." The man pulls back his scarlet red hood, revealing a tanned, shaven head. He snaps his fingers. A ball of fire engulfs each hand. "It is time for you to die! Attack, minions, ATTACK!" The man hurls a large ball of fire towards the adventurers. It explodes in a wild cacophony!

Three invisible creatures appear on the far side of the dais. They are about as tall as Natalie with long, pointed ears and thick, elongated noses. Their skin roils between dark, mud brown and light sand. Their eyes are the color of smokey sunsets. They curse in their infernal tongue and point behind the party.

Before the party can turn around, a fourth imp cackles as he stabs Natalie in the back with his scorpion tail!

Fireball on the party
Fireball v Hedwig's Ref: [roll0]
Fireball v Mad Kas's Ref: [roll1]
Fireball v Lukas's Ref: [roll2]
Fireball v Saskia's Ref: [roll3]
Fireball v Natalie's Ref: [roll4]
Fireball v Koval's Ref: [roll5]
DAMAGE: [roll6], save for half

Imp Attack v Natalie's AC: [roll7]
Damage: [roll8] + Poison: [roll9] v N's Fort. Effect: lose [roll10] Dex, Frequency - 1/round, 6 rounds. Save ends.

[Othniel]

Saskia

"NO! YOU DIE!" The tiefling shouted at the top of her lungs, flying into a rage that surpassed that of what the others had seen at the gallows. She stepped toward the closest imp, swinging her blade and snapping at it with her maw of razor-sharp teeth. The creature crumpled from one blow, and the tiefling snapped a bite of devil flesh as a grisly trophy, promptly spitting it out in disgust. "Raaaaaaah!!"

I rage. 5' step south and Power Attack I4: [roll0]
Damage: [roll]2d6+17
Confirm: [roll1]
Damage: [roll]2d6+17

Bite: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]
Confirm: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]