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General => Play-By-Forum => Graveyard => Topic started by: Tavana on June 01, 2010, 07:04

Title: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 01, 2010, 07:04
Summer has nearly passed. The nights are getting shorter now, and there's a crispness in the air that beckons autumn forward. It's a time of change. A time when people gather close, and get ready to hunker down against the encroaching cold. The last ditch efforts to prepare for harvests are beginning, while others turn to higher tasks.

A most humble beginning

Fate leads us onwards. We each have our own destiny to reach. It may be the Gods that drive us, or perhaps just our own wills. But we all have a moment in time we're straining to reach. For this reason, within days of each other five unlikely persons find themselves inside Elisir Vale, answering summons for reinforcements against enemies in the western mountains. It's not an uncommon event, these summons. But these people are special, somehow. Their stories are different. They unfold with a fluid grace unlike anything the townsfolk have ever seen.

The Master of Summons is - however - unimpressed. After looking you over, he snorts. "Finally, group of five. You will travel together to answer the summons. Average lot, though. You'll die within minutes. Anyway, fifty gold each of you for answering the summons. You'll get double that if you actually show up at Overlook. According to these official summons, you'll need to appear within 30 days of when I've sealed them."

His seal inks briefly upon each summons, and they are handed to you along with a pouch jingling with treasure. "Look, you show a bit more promise than most who come through here, so I'll give you a tip. Not a one of you will survive a minute against what's out in those mountains if reports are true. It's a five day's march to Overlook. I suggest you spend the remaining days doing the hardest training of your life. Now get out of here. New recruits don't show up while the old batch is still waiting around."

With that you are pushed out into the early evening air of Marthton. After a minute or two to spend your new wealth, you are encouraged to leave by the local militia. West appears to be the order of the day. The townsfolk you pass along the way indicate the Brindol is the closest and best place to stay the night.

The quick exit (being thrown out is perhaps more precise) from Marthton dampens the mood slightly, and none of you is quite keen to talk until the lights of Brindol are warming your path. The Guards stop you quickly, but displaying your official summons makes them wave you on. Finally, a rumbling from perhaps your most odd looking companion breaks your silence. "An Inn. You'll need to sleep."

The first Inn you find along the road is called the Antler and Thistle, and the common room is lively for this time of year. A whole seven customers can be sighted through the doors. Enter, adventurer, and claim your destiny!
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 01, 2010, 08:58
- "Ah, there seems to be one" - the one to break the silence before speaks again. He certainly isn't an everyday sight. Warforged. Living construct as they say, creations of one of past empires. Most of you probably have seen or heard of one, but having one in the group is a wierd occurance. And yet there is more to Graven, as he told you to call him, than to normal warforged. For one he looks old, older than most others - his body while still in working order, for lack of better term looks as if it was exposed to seasons for a long time. Then there are marks of battles past - curiously looking like wooden parts grew to fill the gaps - especially on his forehead where one such "healed wound" seems to cross some sort of rune orginally put there. And finally there is something about the way he talks - you could swear that his voice and way he speaks shifts sometimes.

- "Will it suffice for your needs?" - Graven asks his traveling companions.

Quote from: OOC
Sorry for a bit ackward post, figured I'll give you people some description of character so that you know what you're walking with ;)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 01, 2010, 09:55
 "It seems suitable." The human who spoke was a man with wavy black hair. He appeared young but he also looked very weathered, like at some point his life had been drained away, leaving him with a gaunt appearance. His eyes were also peculiar, for the iris of one was pure white and the the other was pure black. And although his body looked frail, he had an eerie resilience to him that made him hard to judge. His full name contains more than 300 syllables which he has never been allowed to finish reciting, so he allows most to call him Adis.

 He walked a few steps ahead of the group and stopped. With an abrupt turn, he queried, "Or would you prefer to keep walking?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 01, 2010, 10:40
The young women who joined you shortly before conscripting quickly found her way to the corner of the room. At first glance, she could appear to be an ordinary human, a girl around twenty in age, of very small frame, and semi-short black hair, cut in mercenary fashion. Only at first, though, for taking a closer look revealed if not what she was, then certainly what she was not- human, for example. Her skin was unnaturally pale, to such point that it looked more like a parchment than actual tissue, giving her rather unpleasant, cadaverous demeanour, and sometimes you could swear that you saw her veins through it. To make matters worse, something about her seemed plainly 'wrong', though no one of you could explain what exactly.

And if not for these two rather unusual quirks, the enormous sword strapped to her back was a dead giveaway. No man (or women) of her frame should be able to carry such weapon, let alone swing it. Truth be told, it appeared more to be just rough-shaped lump of iron than an actual weapon. And judging from her wide collection of scars, the oversized blade was totally not for show, and she apparently was able to fight using it.

Not human for sure. And you had no clue from what species she hailed. And the lack of this knowledge was certainly not helped by her quite limited talkativeness.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 01, 2010, 11:07
An unkempt ball of hair, that some suspect to be halfling, energetically flitters to and fro, pausing on occasion to eat an insect or scratch places not worth dwelling on.
"Hrm? Inn? Nonono! Rah say keep going! We-"
An uncharacteristically loud squirgly noise erupts from the small halfling. He contemplates his stomach for a moment.
"Yah Inn good. Eats!"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 01, 2010, 12:54
Meanwhile, Karan folded the sleeve of her drab shirt, revealing that her entire upper arm was wrapped in soiled bandage. Curiously, it was not stained with dark red, in the colour of gore, but black.

Slowly, hissing in pain, she started to remove the cloth, exposing half-knit, long slashing wound. To your disgust, you noticed that blood that slowly seeped from it had colour of stains on the bandage- black. Another oddity.

She washed out the wound, and pulling a fresh bandage from her sack, begun to wrap the arm again. Afterwards, she put both her sack and her weapon to the ground, and turned towards you.

For the first time in several hours, she spoke.

'So, what brings you to that journey, apart from the monetary gain?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 01, 2010, 16:31
The Antler and Thistle's Common Room is a modest affair. Bar at one side, tables on the other is pretty good money making scheme as far as they go. The patron's don't glance at you too much until your backs are turn, being too polite to stare. The bartender is a robust man with years of experience polishing the few glasses he has behind the counter for regulars who won't break them. His eyes widen slightly when you enter, though if could simply be just at the number of his customers nearly doubling all at once. After getting a good look at your band, though, he decides to remain behind the bar. Perhaps it's a safer place to be with such folks around. He bangs around behind the counter quite noisily to attract the attention of the serving girl, but she doesn't appear as of yet.

The table you seat yourselves at in the front corner is well away from any other customers, and any who turn their heads when money is mentioned quickly turn away after seeing such an open wound. Clearly these people are not used to seeing violence.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 01, 2010, 17:02
After seating himself, Adis turns to Karan with interest. "I myself am just following voices in my head...," he paused, noticing the wry looks from his companions, with the exception Graven. You just couldn't tell what he was thinking from his face alone. "Believe me, it is not as weird as it seems," he continued, " but I am more interested in that wound of yours, what gave it to you?" Adis' face was filled with fascination more than concern.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 01, 2010, 22:50
- "There is something starting out there." - there was that shift in voice again, as Graven replied Karan's question - "Something important. We- I don't know what it is but I feel I need to be there when it happens..."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 02, 2010, 01:00
"It wouldn't happen to be me, would it?" Norian walked into the inn, after a period of fresh air outside. With his smile that everyone was familiar with(Because he usually had it on, no matter the circumstance), he strode over to his seat and sat down.

Norian may be a priest of Pelor, but looking at him, you wouldn't know it. Brown hair slightly below his shoulders, medium build, about 6 feet tall. Pender, Norian's father, said about him, that "My son is more than a match for any militiaman." Yet he chose the way of the gods. Why? Only Norian knows, and so far, he's told no one.

"Oh? Why have I agreed to this journey? Well...I've never told anyone, but for some reason, I feel I can trust you all. Perhaps this is a sign from The Sun himself..."

Norian cleared his throat a bit.

"Anyways, I joined the priesthood, and went on this journey for a very simple reason: I want to be a part of history. I want to leave something that affects the whole world in my wake. I think it is a common goal, yet it drives me greatly."

"So, what's the plan for tommorrow? Anyone?"

---
And there we go. I have made my appearence, and now we can get this ball rolling.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 02:38
The serving girl, modestly scantily clad (if such a thing is possible) finally appears from the back regions of the Inn. More than a few eyes follow her, and you can certainly see why the Inn has the patronage it does. Even the trio of card players in the far corner stop their game momentarily to watch her move across the floor. The Barman exchanges a brief word with her, and she glides over to you, carrying a tray laden with five drinks.

"Good Sirs, a beverage, compliments of the Antler and Thistle."  her voice is light yet strong, and you think you might detect a hint of elven heritage. She looked pointedly at the Warforged one, while she sets them down on the table. "Aldus won't let you pay for the first round, either. Apparently one of...your kind...saved his Uncle when the Red Hand attacked a decade ago. He's never forgotten it. You and anyone with you is welcome to stay here as long as you'd like." Her quick glance around the table makes it clear that there are certain exceptions to that rule. Without waiting for a reply, she turns and heads back towards the bar.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 02, 2010, 03:15
Graven seems to consider serving girl's words for a moment.

- "Thank you. I am glad to hear there are some of my kind fulfilling their purpose." - he replies as she is turning back - "This unit would have a query though - could you explain to me what "Red Hand" you mentioned is? I was... away... for long time."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 02, 2010, 04:18
Eyes barely above the table, Rah ravenously mauls a large leg of red meat.
"Mmrhph yous wants meat Nori? Mphmumph tastes gre-"
The barmaid passes by. Lumps of meat tumble from the halfling's suddenly slack jaw.
After she leaves, his eyes gradually unglaze. He looks down at the leg of meat with a confused expression.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 04:37
The serving girl turns and smiles a wry smile, uncertain quite how to respond to what is, as far as the locals are concerned, known to everyone. As she opens her mouth to speak, the entry to the Antler and Thistle burts open, and all thoughts of her reply are lost...forever.

Bar Fight!

Four hobgoblins pour through the now shattered door, and with a cry of "For Sinruth! For the Hand!" the closest patron and the serving girl are skewered before you can even think to react. Gasps and cries arise from the local peasants as they grab ahold of drinks and garden tools as improvised weapons. Perhaps you had best do the same...

Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 02, 2010, 05:22
Rah's head whips around.
*Gasp!*
Enemies! Right next to his bestest pal Nori even!
Meat in hand like some kind of club, he bounds through the air like a hairy cannonball toward the threat.
"You no pick on Nori! He is weak, like small girl! I save you Nori ok!"

Closing in on the intruder, his senses dim. All he can see is the target. His inner fury builds - becomes fire! Grows hot! Fire-

Is released!

Quote
Rah uses Hunter's Quarry on the I14 chump next to Nori; then uses Open The Gates of Battle to move to H14 and attack the I14 chump.
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2544603/
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2544604/
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/2544605/
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 05:28
The fire is released somewhere in the vicinity of the Hobgoblin's feet. It dances wildly, angered but not really hurt from this attack.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 02, 2010, 05:39
Graven rose second with wordles cry of rage. He moved swiftly ignoring the closest enemy and getting between two further-placed goblins. He then swung his huge maul at one of them, while the air around him started to get oddly cold.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 05:54
The huge maul barely misses crushing the skull of the Hobgoblin, who shrieks in alarm.

A small black goblin you mistook for a hobgoblin at first throws a bitumen torch that it was holding behind the bar, barely missing the Barman. It the skitters behind a nearby table.

Spoiler: Fire! (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn. (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR1T3.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 02, 2010, 06:11

"Heavens Alive!" Norian yells as the hobgoblins roll into the inn. He then finds himself near one. He decides to put a little bit of space between him and the goblin, and then points a finger at said goblin. "Pelor, guide this holy bolt! LANCE OF FAITH!" Suddenly, a ray of brilliant light shoots out from the tip of Norians finger, and heads for the goblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 06:28
The bright ray is barely dodged by a very very annoyed Hobgoblin. He retaliates against the closest thing he can find, which happens to be Rah. The Hobgoblin's Longsword carries out the will of his anger, inflicting an unhealthy looking wound.

The pack enraged by Graven's enchanment launch a counterstrike against him as well! Graven is barely nimble enough to avoid one blow on his armor, but the second lands soundly.

Spoiler: Damage Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR1T8.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 02, 2010, 09:15
Realizing he was being left behind, Adis jumped to his feet. "Hmm, troublesome... troublesome..ah!" Stretching out his staff, Adis began quickly reciting an incantation. "Oh grasp of winter, reach out and bind my foes. Let thy fingers bring them tranquility..." The tip began glowing brighter and brighter. As the incantation finished, a bolt of white light shot towards the Hobgoblin bothering Rah. Without looking to see if it hit, Adis began to move around towards Graven.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 02, 2010, 10:26
Karan was last to react. Without a single word, and with the usual emotionless expression on her face, she grabbed her sword from the floor, unsheathed it, and launched forward, recklessly charging at the one she considered to pose the biggest threat- the goblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 02, 2010, 11:19
Blood was drawn. In Rah's eyes, one could see only the fury of an enraged beast! His little legs rocket him forth on a course of destruction!

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 02, 2010, 16:43
Adis Ray of Frost definitely cools the Hobgoblin's anger down. He falls to the floor, unmoving. Frozen to death!

Karan leaps into the fray, not suffering any attacks of opportunity from frozen corpses, instead charging up and sinking her blade in between the shoulders of yet another Hobgoblin!

Seeing the bitumen torch land inbetween the bottles behind the bar, the Barman leaps around towards the side of the bar, just barely making it in time before the whole serving area leaps into flames. High proof stuff he's storing, apparently. The gamblers in the corner scrabble to pick up their money, while one courageous customer actually picks up a chair and runs into the fray! He doesn't manage to hurt the nearest Hobgoblin, but at least he doesn't get himself killed. "For me Pappie!" is his warcry.

Another round, and some MORE Hobgoblins pour through the front door. The first two in turn their attentions towards the closest thing...Karan. She has her back to them initially, and is badly scratched by the first blow, but manages to evade the second. The third Hobgoblin heads for Rah, missing him entirely in his hurry to prove himself, and the fourth finds it's way up to our civilian who entered the fray. Sadly, a chair is not good protection against a Longsword, and he is literally cut in half.
Map before Rah unleases the fury (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR1END.jpg)

Rah appears to not like this chain of events. He lets his fury go, weaving a path through the carnage. His strikes take down all but two of the remaining Hobgoblins, and leave him panting for breath.
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR2T1.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 02, 2010, 16:56
Graven takes another swing at hobgoblin near him, but due to Rah's sudden apperance near him he is thrown off-balance and misses. Cold, windy aura continues to emanate from warforged keeping goblinoids attention on him.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 03, 2010, 01:30
The small scuttering Hobgoblin leaps over the table he's hiding behind and douses it with the flames from another bitumen torch that it lights for the task. The Inn is really starting to heat up!
Map at this point (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR2T3.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 03, 2010, 01:59
Despite missing, Norian is undaunted. After cheering Rah on due to his martial prowress, he moves near Adis. "You guys take out that Pyromaniacal Goblin, I'll finish this fool off!"
With these words, Norian tosses a lance of faith at the hobgoblin, and the bright bolt screams towards its target at a frightening pace.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 03, 2010, 02:33
Seeing hit previous victim stiff as a board, Adis turn his attention to more immanent dangers. The fire behind the bar was quickly spreading out of control and would soon be too large to manage if not dealt with soon. Moving closer for a clear shot, he took a deep breath and began another recitation. "Breath of winter, calm the lands. Bring stillness to a raging world..." he began, this recitation being longer and more complex than the first. As he finished, the air behind the bar began to sparkle as the flames slowly died down. The fire at the entrance was still present but the immediate crisis had been averted.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 03, 2010, 03:15
Karan freed the blade from the corpse of slain hobgoblin, and turned towards arsonist goblin. Quickly, she lunged forward to him, her blade ready to deliver powerful overhead swing, immediately followed by second, slightly less powerful, but still formidable thrust.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 03, 2010, 08:15
Norian's target is surrounded by holy light. Angels can be heard for a moment, but we all know this Hobgoblin isn't going there.

Karan, seeing everyone in the party spending daily powers, doesn't want to be left out, and quickly smashes the heck out of our Goblin Blackblade. His first attack badly bloodies the small creature, the second makes it squeal and it dies a slow, painful death.

The Bartender looks up over the top of his bar, which is now covered with a light sheen of frost. His amazement is even greater that there are no Goblins alive in his bar, either! He grabs hold of the patron fleeing out of the back, yelling "Come now! They're all dead! Let's get this fire out before it spreads!"

One patron rushes up towards Norian with the amazing comment of "Whoa! I never knew priests could do that! Maybe I should go to church more often!"

The gamblers in the corner let the last few coins tinkle from their hands, and gawk at the carnage around the room. Suddenly one of them points and screams "There's one at the window!"

That's right, there's more! Two more hobgoblin grunts break through the front window, and seeing their comrades all dead around the Inn, let out a loud scream that  brings reinforcements in with them. Sadly for them, reinforcements is only two more of their ilk, one holding another torch at the ready.
Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR2END.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 03, 2010, 09:52
Rah darts off and around stools and tables to strike two hobgoblins in a wide attack!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 03, 2010, 10:18
Graven moves ignoring a hobgoblin dying to Rah's attack and next to two others. He slams his maul into the ground and floor around him shatters as spikes of rock burst from within. Sadly hobgoblins are nimble enough to avoid them.

- "Determining appropiate response: Shit."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 03, 2010, 16:05
As Rah prepares to attack, one of the Hobgoblins full on drops his sword. Nothing stops Rah from ripping him limb from limb! The other Hobgoblin dances out of the way of Rah's first attack, but quickly perishes to his follow up, further cementing Rah as the only reliable Hobgoblin killer in the Inn.

The Goblin Blackblade called in as reinforcements scuttles under the table he's behind and over towards the far wall, throwing his torch at the back table where the gamblers are. He misses hitting them at this distance, but the torch still manages to set the table alight.

Graven wanders over and misses yet again, but at least pulls up the power of the Earth to stop any enemies from fleeing from him...not that they were trying.
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR3T3.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 03, 2010, 20:52
Norian gives a giant grin and tells the peasant "Yeah. Clerics are trained a little differently, but that is still the power of Pelor at work!" Suddenly, the goblin reinforcements bust through "What! Curses!" Norian turns to the peasant, "Don't worry, we'll try to keep you safe." With that, He quickly slides over next to the peasant and looks up to the heavens. "Oh Pelor, god of the sun, may your fury bring pain upon this fowl creature! SACRED FLAME!" A bright light starts to shine on the Hobgoblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 04, 2010, 03:02
No sooner had he cast his spell, did Rah rush by him, nearly knocking him over. Turning around he saw the crumpled heap of a goblin that had sneaked up behind him. "You have my gratitude..." he said. Along the back wall he noticed another goblin sneaking along. With a few steps to the right, Adis began reciting an incantation. The air at the tip of his staff began to chill once more as a ray of white light lanced forth.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 03:16
Norian's pride swells from the compliment and (amazingly) he doesn't choke and not kill the Hobgoblin. That's two for the humble cleric!

Adis follows that up with a chilling effect blast that chills the Goblin Blackblade's bones. He's still got a bit of fight in him, though.
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e1/Bar_FightR3T5.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 04, 2010, 03:29
Karan turned towards the last remaining foe, and rushed to him, trying to land a blow at the end of the charge. Her moves, however, were considerably less fluid than before- apparently, the fight was beginning to strain her. And so the nimble goblin managed to elude the swing with ease.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 04:37
Karan, imbued with divine power from her might aspect, flows over the battlefield gracefully, at least making sure the Goblin can't get away without an attack of opportunity.

The Barman, seeing the fight going well, continues to pull the customer along and they both manage to douse the fire before it can spread further. The gamblers have had enough for the night, and flee - leaving a scant couple of coins on the table from their early effort to stow them away.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 04, 2010, 04:58
Rah scoots around a table, flanking and striking the goblinoid!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 05:03
Rah's fury abate slightly, but his ability to put the hurt on the enemy still continues to amaze. The Goblin reels from the attack, but still remains standing even with blood dripping from his wounds.

The Blackblade flails helplessly in the direction of Karan with it's Short Sword, but fails to do anything useful to save its life.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 04, 2010, 05:14
The construct spots the last enemy and moves next to Karan kicking a chair out of his path as he goes and brings his hammer down on the goblin, this time connecting with the blow.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 05:31
The Hobgoblin attack finishes as surprisingly as it began...with Graven actually hitting something. The Blackblade gurgles and shudders once more, and quiet is restored. You barely finish putting out the last fire when a proud member of the Brindol Guard shows up. After briefly looking around, he pulls your group outside the bar to...chat.

Spoiler: Rewards! (click to show/hide)

The man is slightly overweight, and doesn't look like he's had too much experience in the fighting trade, but he manages to hold himself upright while faced with you five, bloodied as you are. So that's something for him at least. He takes a deep breath and speaks.

"What the hell was that!? You lot had better not be involved in this whole hubbub, because there's a whole rank and file of Guard heading this way right now. You've got two, maybe three minutes to convince me you didn't do any of this stuff, and I'll try to talk them down when they get here."
The First Encounter! (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/barfight.php)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 04, 2010, 05:38
- "Good sir, we were sitting here peacefully when these goblins here" - Graven points towards nearest corpse - "Barged in killing people, trying to set the place on fire, and screaming something about 'the Hand'. If you don't believe us I think you can ask the owner of this inn..."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 04, 2010, 05:54
Karan appeared to be really exhausted after the fight, barely able to lift her blade. Panting heavily, she left the inn, but when the guard begun his questioning, she simply sat down, sticking her sword into the ground in front of her, leaning against it and resting. She was not even trying to hide her disdain and disrespect for the fat idiot.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 04, 2010, 06:03
Norian sees Karan leave, and then turns back to the guard. He decides to try and help out.

"Um, Well, if it helps, we're on our way to conduct some official buisness,involving the troubles out in the western mountains." Norian fumbles around a bit and pulls out the summons. "We were on our way to the west, when we decided to stop by and rest, after a while, the goblins popped out and started attacking us, though we repelled them. So, we were not involved, except in defending ourselves."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 04, 2010, 06:04
"Excuse me mister... Guardsman? Aside from that unfortunate casualty of surprise," Adis began, pointing at the body of the barmaid, " do you see the bodies of any respectable people laying about? No? Just goblins? Then why bother accusing us of helping those vile, repugnant wretches." Adis was clearly mocking the guard, but talked just fast enough to prevent interruptions. He took a deep breath. "As it stands, they interrupted what would have been the first decent meal I've had all day. What ever group they're from - the Hand something or other - is lucky I do not go out and beat them to death with the frozen corpses of their allies..." towards the end he began to trail off and began talking to himself, muttering unspeakable actions he would commit against the goblins.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 06:19
The Guard takes all this in, and approachs the member he feels most comfortable around, Norian. "A summons you say? Give me a moment to read it." He takes it from your hands and read it carefully. [You have a short rest while the SOMEWHAT overweight man reads.]

Ogre Bombardier

While he's reading, the shouting you've been hearing off in the distance gets continually louder. Soon, a throng of townsfolk appears around the corner, running from an odd sight: A full grown Ogre pulling a wagon by a yoke around its waist. The Ogre holds a cask in one hand, and a massive club in the other. Riding atop the wagon are two Hobgoblins weilding crude bows. The Ogre takes a look at your bloodstained group and roars towards it.

The Guardsman, still clutching the Summons stutters softly "Well...ummm...I think I might go see what's keeping those Guards!" and scuttles off.
Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/OgreR1T1.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 04, 2010, 07:21
Adis slowly turned his head to face the new threat, however instead of fear, he felt glee...
I must ride it! he thought, but first the goblins have to go.

Sticking close to the building, Adis, approached the cart and began his recitation. "Lance of Wrath, inhabit the earth. Rise up and ravage my foes before me..." As he continued to recite, the ground before him slowly began to crackle, suddenly the ground exploded. You could see faint arcs of electricity leaping about before him as they began to rip at the cart.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 07:31
The waves of thunder ripple through the cart, upsetting a few of the casks it contains, but otherwise leaving it unharmed. Both of the Goblin Archers squeak and squeal in their own tongue, the Ogre grunts heavily and bellows loudly.

The archers both grab ahold of a cask and light it, holding them above their heads.
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e2/OgreR1T2.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 04, 2010, 07:38
Taking a deep breath, Karan picks up the sword, and rushes forward to strike at the hulking Ogre.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 04, 2010, 07:51
Karan's lunge leaves her dangerously close to the Ogre, but she manages to land a strike against it! The Ogre looks a bit stunned, clearly not used to being hit at all, but still appears to be full of steam.

The Ogre, still holding the cask, comtemplates using its club and drops the cask on the ground. It explodes in a huge blast, burning the foot of the Ogre (who barely notices it) and Karan is left with a feeling of immense heat, though is not damaged by the cask. The Ogre's club on the other hand...that smacks Karan for a huge amount of damage, leaving her even bloodier than the wound beneath her bandage.

Spoiler: Damage Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/er/OgreR1T4.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 04, 2010, 14:55
Rah's eyes narrow on the ogre. He interrupted eats! What evil!
Rah runs on all fours at super speed, then jumps at the ogre's face, becoming an indecipherable ball of wailing appendages!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 04, 2010, 15:15
- "An... Ogre?" - Graven suddenly remembered something. Back then on that pass... there was one. Just one and it was enough - "This... is going to be ugly. Please let it work...

Warforged gripped his hammer tighter. Aura of cold that kept his enemies attention last battle came back, but this time it didn't stop spreading. Soon the construct was surrounded by something that looked like minature blizzard. Ground freezing around him he took several quick steps and swung his maul widely hitting the ogre surely if weakly. As frost climbed up from ground immobilizing the creature Graven glared at it and shouted.

- "Come on you son of a kobold, give me your best shot!"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 04, 2010, 17:51
'An Ogre!?!? Oh Damnation! This night just doesn't end, does it?"
Norian runs up behind Karan and then gathers all of his strength. "Oh god of the Sun...I beg of you, give us the strength to persevere! Beacon of Hope!" Suddenly, a giant burst of divine energy radiates from Norians outstretched hands, and engulfs the ogre, the two hobgoblins, and Norian's allies in a bright divine light.

After bringing that down, Norian looks a little weary, but not in any way that will affect his performance. He then turns to Karan, and whispers a brief prayer. "Pelor, may you keep watch over my friends and smite my foes." Karan is bathed in a soft glow, which heals her wounds, and then,Acting very quickly,He throws a lance of faith at the Ogre. With the brief flash of light, Norian suddenly thinks about something he noticed when he cast the Beacon of Hope. Those goblins were sitting infront of them, but he noticed a bunch of barrels...barrels that looked like the one that the Ogre was holding!

"Oh!" Norian suddenly let out. "Hey! One of us needs to run back into the tavern and grab a torch! Hell! Grab two, three! Light em, throw them on the wagon towards the back, and then, RUN!!! Who wants to volunteer?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 05, 2010, 05:14
Rah heads over in front of the Ogre like a little furry ball of damage, slamming his fists repeatedly into the hulking brute. The Ogre blinks quickly as if uncertain how such a small creature could make him hurt so badly.

Graven crunches through a layer of permafrost that starts to cover the ground around him. The fire starting to crackle its way up the Ogre's leg snuffs out quickly. Graven's blow stuns the Ogre, who can't understand what is going on. It's never felt this...pain thing before. Its muscles lock up!

Norian's hope heals Karan, while managing to encompass all the enemies you can see on the wagon. Only the Ogre is affected by his radiant power, though. His amazing speed with Pelor's Lance manages to blast the Ogre, and blood starts to visibly drip from its wounds.

Spoiler: Battle Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e2/OgreR1T8.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 05, 2010, 08:14
The distinct lack fo screaming from the goblins left Adis disappointed. Looking to his left he could see his dreams of riding the Ogre crumbling with each attack they made. With a sigh he moved to a better vantage to observe the goblins. They seemed to be holding something... a cask of some sort?... Adis thought. Then a smile crept across his face. ...Soooo, they think they're so smart with their bombs and their trained ogre and their dumb little cart...
"Focused will -like shards of glass- whip and rage. Rend my foes till they bleed all over..." He recited. This was one of his favorite spells, in fact he liked so much, he cast it twice. Soon the goblins were dancing about in their cart. Hmm dancing with an explosive? That doesn't seem very smart...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 05, 2010, 20:39
Adis manages to impale both the Goblins with daggers aplenty, leaving them with many bloody wounds. The Goblin furthers from your group drops its lit cask as well.

He quickly scrambles to pick it up, throws it at your group and jumps off of the cart and to the North. His aim isn't that good, though, and it rolls under the Ogre's feet. The other Goblin throws his cask as well, notches and fires an arrow at the cask, and slides to the other side of the wagon. Black pitch bubbles from the wound, and the cask explodes - setting off both casks at once!

The Ogre would grunt from the heat and pain...if it could.

Rah manages to avoid the burning pitch explosion, Graven, Karan and Norian are not so lucky.

Also worth a mention: The wagon starts to burn.

Spoiler: Damage Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e2/OgreR2T3.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 06, 2010, 03:28
Circling the orge, Karan positions herself so that she can strike at the beast's back.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 06, 2010, 03:48
Karan strikes the Ogre forcefully, continuing the onslot of damage against the beast.

The creature shakes its head forcefully. Building up its resolve against the pain it roars deeply and raises its club, smashing it downwards...quite critically...in Graven's direction. Thank heavens for him that the creature is feeling a bit weak at the time.


Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e2/OgreR2T5.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 06, 2010, 04:29
Rah leaps up and aims a flying kick right at the ogre's face!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 06, 2010, 04:39
Rah feels his kick going wide! There is much sad times. Until...
Out of the corner of his eyes, he catches Karan smirking, a strange radiance enveloping her hands - Rah finds his foot mysteriously gravitating back toward the oaf's noggin!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 06, 2010, 04:44
Both of Rah's attacks fail to impact against the Ogre's massive Fortitude.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 06, 2010, 08:09
Graven shook his head but remained on his feet. That was close, but he knew he could take it for just a bit longer. He quickly made a powerfull blow to ogre's leg, temporarily hindering it's movement, then wisely took a step back.

- "Cleeeeriiiiic!"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 06, 2010, 08:15
Graven smacks the bejeezus out of the Ogre, leaving it reeling yet again. Apparently he was feeling quite warmed up after all that whiffing earlier.

The Ogre is looking worse for wear, and you can tell that it's on its last legs.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e2/OgreR2T7.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 06, 2010, 19:04
"Graven! Hold on!" Norian utters his Healing Word, and Graven is bathed in a soft light which heals him. Turning his attention back to the ogre, Norian continues the barrage of LoF's, after taking a step back.



Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 06, 2010, 19:51
If the Ogre is dead...
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

If the Ogre is still alive...
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 07, 2010, 05:03
Norain's faith in Pelor is the last straw, and the mighty Ogre topples over, still chained to the wagon. The wagon tilts slightly with the weight of the creature, but stays upright. A slosh of pitch inside the now burning casks can be easily heard.

With a crack, a shot of flame bursts into the air and the first of many of the casks inside the wagon start to explode. The Goblin Archer squeals in pain, breathing its last.

Adis starts to mop up the final Goblin, succeeding in pushing it further towards the now inevitable outcome.

The Archer bounds a bit futher away, firing off another arrow: this time at the blasted Wizard with his painful spells.

Spoiler: Damage Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 07, 2010, 13:31
Seeing the as the last foe flees, Karan grips her blade firmly, and yet rushes forward, chasing him. And though the creature is quite far already, it simply can't outrun the tiefling. Soon, Karan takes a wide sweep, aiming to mow down the cowardly creature.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 08, 2010, 05:06
Your rag tag group - standing well away from the now rapidly exploding pitch casks - finally slumps into the grass at the front of the Inn. Those Guards you were told about showed up fifteen minutes later, perhaps taking their time purposely? Either way, they surround your group. One guard is about to step forward to begin what is sure to be interrogation when the Barman exits the Inn and into your midst. Taking one look at the Guards and quickly reading their intent, he loudly declares "These fine folk aren't going to be answering any of your questions tonight, Guard Flenter. These people saved my pub from burning down more than once tonight, and I'm not letting you at them until they've at least had a night's rest. Try to stop me and I'll make sure you never have a drink in this town again." He turns away from the group of Guards, and quietly says "Can I show you to your rooms?"

He leads you not through the door you went in earlier, but into the building on the other side of the smouldering wagon. His steps take you up a flight of stairs, to a large room at the end of the hall. "You four can set up in here. Let me know if you need anything. The lass will just be in the next room if you need her. I'd suggest you get a rest." He points Karan to a slightly smaller door saying "My wife can get you anything you need. Washroom is the first door on the left at the bottom of the stairs. I'll be able to delay the Guards until at least midday, but I'd suggest you make yourselves ready by then."

He turns and starts walking down the stairs, pausing only to turn his head to say "You have my thanks, Warforged."

Spoiler: Rewards! (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 08, 2010, 05:30
- "You all go rest. I'll come soon" - Graven told to his companions and walked down after the man - "I'm sorry to trouble you good barkeeper but I have two questions too you, if it's not a problem. The first one would be do you know that guard that came here before ogre appeared? He seems to have taken off with summons one of my companions, the priest had. The other question would be about something your serving girl mentioned. She spoke of something called "Red Hand". I... My knowledge of history has large holes so I wanted to ask her about it, but the goblins came in and..." - warforged paused, not sure how to continue.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 08, 2010, 05:36
Looking as the barkeep descended, and then Graven, Norian then turns back to his party-mates, and shrugs "Well, at least we can get a good rest...Waitaminute. I never DID get my summons back from that guard, did we? Oh well, we can hopefully get it back tomorrow. In the meantime, anybody else want to do anything in particular before we lay our heads to rest?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 08, 2010, 10:37
Adis sighed and slumped against a wall, however a growl from his stomach interrupted even this rest. Heading downstairs he saw Graven talking to the barkeep. Great...
Taking a seat near the two, he pulled out a small book. I guess I'll prepare for tomorrow then, he thought.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 08, 2010, 11:45
Nori Nori Nori!
*Rah runs up to Nori*
You talk to Peelor lots! Is he no sleeps here? Is he dog mebbe, sleep outside? I no seen Peelor yet! Where is he?
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 08, 2010, 14:04
Karan looked with confusion at the smaller door for a couple of seconds, before she realized why she was given a separate room. Apparently she was very exhausted, and not exactly entirely conscious.

'Oh, thank you' she mumbled, slowly entering the room prepared for her. Her moves were clumsy now, devoid of all the fluidity she displayed in combat.

To your amusement, while getting through the door, she tripped over the doorstep. For a few second she tried to catch her balance back, but finally overexertion and enormous blade strapped to her back overcame her, and with a loud sound, she fell to the floor, apparently loosing the any reminders of her consciousness on her way down, for she did not even try to get back, just falling asleep where she lied.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 08, 2010, 18:06
"You may call me Aldus, Warforged. As to your friend's papers...Darien may be a fool, but he won't lose them. I expect Eoffram...well, sorry. Councilmember Eoffram Troyas will want to speak with you tomorrow, no doubt. He'll either have your papers or know how to get them. Either that or my wife will give his wife hell, and something will get done. Don't worry too much about it, Warforged. You've taken care of us and we repay our debts."

"And her name was Sojar." His brow creases slightly, but he continues "Ah, yes. The Red Hand. That I can tell you a little, but you'd be better to ask Javil over at the Hall of Great Valor. Basically, about ten years ago we had a group of Hobgoblins band together to form what they called the Red Hand. Around these parts they called it the Red Hand of Doom. The wanted to wipe out all the major cities of the area, and they decided to start with Brindol since we're the biggest. We had a bit of help from some of your lot, and a few others. You can have a look over at the Hall when it gets light. We managed to bag us some of their armor and whatnot. It's sorta become the local legend."

His eyes glaze over for a moment, and he shakes his head to steady himself "If those Hobbies in me bar tonight said what I thought they said, and they're trying to bring back the Hand...well, they've got a long way to go. Couldn't even trash a pub without losing a dozen fighters."

Aldus sighs a long and regretful sigh, and ventures to place his hand on Graven's shoulder. "I understand you must have a lot of questions. I hear your minds don't remember things quite like ours do. But my wife will be fidgeting wondering where I am. If you want to ask me anything else I'll get up extra early to chat with you - I hear you lot don't hardly sleep at all anyhow."
----
Each bed has a parcel atop it, with a portion of salted meat and a small loaf of bread. Meager, perhaps, but the town wasn't exactly bustling for business at this time of year.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 09, 2010, 00:24
Getting bored of waiting, Adis went back to the room. Surprised to see food on his bed, he sat down to some decent food. Rah was bouncing about over by Norian and being a general nuisance. Covertly, Adis watched with amusement, all the while aiming his staff. Suddenly the floor beneath Rah turned to Ice, causing him to fall on his rump. With a small laugh, he pulled out his spellbook again and continued preparing his spells.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 09, 2010, 00:47
Rah slips on his bum! And he slips a few more times trying to get up. Rubbing his sore hide, he glares at Adis with a fury of a thousand suns! The evil wizard will pay a terrible, nigh unfathomable price!!!

...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 09, 2010, 03:39
There is something awfully resembling a laugh coming from Graven before he responds - "Well in my cease it's less of a problem with memory, more of a problem of not being near civilization for a long time. Thank you Aldus - I think that's enough data for me, so you can sleep as long need to."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 09, 2010, 03:55
Quote from: fwoop on June 08, 2010, 11:45
Nori Nori Nori!
*Rah runs up to Nori*
You talk to Peelor lots! Is he no sleeps here? Is he dog mebbe, sleep outside? I no seen Peelor yet! Where is he?

Most people would ignore Rah's crazed ramblings, or tell him off in a mean way. Norian was not that kind of person.

"Well, Rah, Pelor is not a dog. He is the divine being I have pledged my service to. The reason you don't see him, is because, while he does travel with me, he does so from the Astral Plane. Now, I'll answer more questions later, but I'm beat. remember, any questions about The Divine Sun, ask me."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 09, 2010, 04:32
Rah sits there jaw agape as Norian tells him all sorts of things about Peelor. Astral? Dog? Deevine?

Much time that night is spent contemplating the notion of extra planar deities and such. Life was getting ever more confusing for the wild halfling!

In the middle of the night, he decides to pledge his support, an offering, by using a sharp rock to make a small carving in the wooden floorboards.

Pleased with himself, he floats back to dreams.

[pictured: Peelor, Rah, Nori]
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 09, 2010, 07:24
The night passes uneventfully, besides a lingering bad smell coming from a certain small bundle. The sun pokes briefly over a slightly charred rooftop, awakening a town that really didn't sleep very well.

A fresh pile of salted meat sits inside the door of both rooms, apparently Aldus got up a lot earlier than you. A scribbled note is folded underneath the meat inside the room he directed the males into. Unfolding it reveals the following text:

Friends, I'm going to try to keep these guards out of your way until you're ready to meet them. They're mighty upset about being put off though. Apparently the damage was worse than we thought last night. Those Goblins you picked off weren't all of them. The council wants to speak to you, and I'd better let them explain. Gather the lass as quick as you can and come downstairs.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 09, 2010, 11:27
 Adis woke up in a cold sweat. Morning's were never good for him, they never had been. Expressionless, he clothed himself, grabbed a slice of meat and walked down stairs. The main room of the wasn't completely deserted. The glass from the broken window had already been cleaned up and it was evident work had been done to replace several damaged sections of the bar already. Too bad all the drink caught fire...
 Looking around, Adis saw the owner in the back running around supplies like a madman. He made a quick glance at his feet. He could feel the presence of the barmaid laying there, though her body was long gone. With a silent approach, he asked directions to a washroom or someplace where he might have privacy to clean up. The owner directed him to a small storage room that was nearly empty. Moving the supplies aside to avoid damaging them, Adis locked the door and began to cleanse himself.
 Ray of cold was a rather useful spell. Cast repeatedly, it caused condensation and collected water. It also made the room very cold. A fitting treatment to sober him from his nightly horrors.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 09, 2010, 13:44
Soon after Adis went to the washroom, Karan came down to the main room of the inn as well. She changed her outfit, from the drab brown traveller's drab she wore for the most of her journey, into some sort of armor, made of several pieces of thick hide sewn together. It appeared to be finely crafted, but also bore marks of years of usage. Many of the pieces were also engraved, showing various scenes from life of the warriors- battles, mostly. Most of those engravings were simple, made by someone certainly not familiar with arts. Still, some of them- newer ones, as far as you could tell, were way more detailed and artful, certainly coming from some one else than the earlier ones. Also, the suit appeared to be made for a person of bigger frame and different gender than Karan, and was only adjusted with numerous straps to fit on her.

'Oh... hey' she muttered, upon seeing Adis getting back from the washroom.  'I guess I did not have to opportunity to answer you the question you asked yesterday, right?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 09, 2010, 13:57
 The cold air of the room breathed new life into his body, with the sweat and blood gone from the prior day, Adis felt better. Cleaning up any excess water, he did his best to figure out what message he had received this time. So many voices, images, suggestions; all from a place beyond the mortal realms. Detached, Adis left the washroom.
 Suddenly Karan's voice interrupted his thoughts. "Hmm?" Adis raised his head. "Ah, yes. I was indeed wondering about the source of your wound. It looked rather nasty to be treated only with bandages."
 Regaining his sense of awareness, Adis led Karan and himself to a table to continue their discussion.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 09, 2010, 14:33
'Nasty?' said Karan with a shrug, reaching towards a jug of wine. 'I just happen to bleed black, just don't get fooled by it.'

She sighed, and loosened one of the many straps on her armor.

'I just forgot how uncomfortable this thing is... she muttered spitefully. 'And the wound itself? I got it from one man, before I killed him properly. Though, I must say that before his demise, that I hope was very painful one, he gave me the information I was looking for quite a few years.'

She took a long draught of wine directly from the jug.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 09, 2010, 14:47
Graven walks into the main room and nods a welcome to Karan and Adis. He takes a seat and waits quietly for last two companions to come.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 10, 2010, 03:04
Norian and Rah descend the stairs presently, and after giving you a moment to greet each other Aldus makes his way over to your group "I do apologize for the rush this morning. The Guards are just trying to make the townsfolk think that they're actually doing something. Don't mind them too much. They're mostly harmless."

He leads you to the door and unlocks it. Aldus pokes his head outside and says "Those heros you wanted to see are ready now." With a nod to you, he walks back into the Antler and Thistle. You can easily tell the Guards have not slept well. They are a bit gruff with you, and perhaps a bit apprehensive of the tales of your slaying an Ogre. "This way!" is their command.

They lead you towards the centre of Brindol, and you begin to see the damage the town went through a bit better in the light. Quite a few houses are charred, and there's more than one person mourning the loss of a loved one. The majority of the people you pass are human or half-elf, but there are more than a few dwarves helping to repair damaged walls.

After a few minutes your steps lead you to the council chambers. "They met earlier, but since you couldn't be bothered to wake up a bit earlier, you'll have to deal with Troyas one on one. Wouldn't want to be in your shoes." The Guards smirk in your direction and beckon a page to direct you to his personal chambers. The council chambers themselves aren't terribly impressive, but considering the town is barely more than 5,000 strong it's quite a large building. Through the massive entry, two lefts and a right lead you to the doors of Councilmember Eoffram Troyas' personal chamber. The page ventures to quietly say "Be careful, he doesn't take too kindly to jokes." before knocking lightly and announcing your arrival.

Skill Challenge: Eoffram Troyas

Councilmember Eoffram Troyas is a tall man, with a slender body. His slightly pointed ears indicate his elven heritage, but his cheeks are too full to be of pure blood. A half-elf, then. He greets you solemnly, making eye contact with each of you in turn before indicating the five chairs he has set in front of his small desk. The room seems a bit cramped with so many people, but Eoffram isn't bothered by it, so why should you be? He waits quietly until you've each taken a seat, finally clearing his throat to say "Thank you for meeting with me. I am considering something, and I wished to speak to you about it in person - and in private."

His gaze moves deliberately along each of you, taking in the effect of his statement.

Spoiler: Skill Challenges (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 11, 2010, 03:31
Eoffram smiles slightly, apparently having expected more of a reaction than the few raised eyebrows that he was met with. He pulls out a piece of paper and presents you with it. A bloody handmark has been drawn onto it. "You may have heard of the Red Hand before. Aldus of the Antler and Thistle has informed me this morning that he supplied at least one of you with basic knowledge of it. Either way, be aware that they were a formidable force of Hobgoblins that attempted to wipe out the civilized villages in this area. They started - and stopped - with Brindol. A group of...companions, shall we say - they assisted our village in fighting off this threat. We now face a group that appears to be attempting to resurrect this band. You met with some of their ilk last night, I am told. I shall be brief, I am considering petitioning the council to secure your aid in this matter. But I need assurance of your abilities...and motives before I can approach them."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 11, 2010, 03:38
Graven sits down not sure what to say, instead try to bid his time and get a feel of the man they were speaking with. A feat not exactly easy considering differences in how human and warforged minds work.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 11, 2010, 03:48
He certainly likes to beat around the bush, doesn't he? Adis thought. Now a previous band of adventurers? Has such a tale crossed my ears?
Adis closed his eyes and delved deep into his thought searching for something that could convince Troyas to get on with his proposition.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 11, 2010, 03:55
Eoffram turns towards the Wizard, clearly not expecting such a piercing remark about the local history. "Alright, granted. These are a different group of Hobgoblins. And we will treat them differently. You've satisfied me with your ability to recite historical facts. Let me put it to you this way. A group of companions saved our town once, and I believe they could do so again. I simply need to be able to assure the council that you are indeed the correct group of companions to do so."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 11, 2010, 04:04
Rah eyes the man in front of him. He could tell this man was important, and like any object of interest in the wild, he focuses all his senses on it. Emotions like fear, aggression, could be detected by body motions, perspiration, smell, and such.

Rah concentrates.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 11, 2010, 04:23
Okay Norian. Calm, calm. This is somewhat important, so you need to keep your composure. Alright, maybe he's willing to talk to me, have an exchange, and I can hopefully convince him that we are who we say we are. "Sir, I know we arrived in town yesterday, but, you saw the summons, and Aldus will vouch for our legitemency. We are willing and able to do whatever it takes to prove our innocence. Please, I beg of you, believe that we are real, by the Holy Sun..."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 11, 2010, 04:36
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 11, 2010, 10:16
Instead of speaking, Karan simply tried to assume a properly imposing pose, to wordlessly prove that the blade she carried was not for show. She, however, did not feel entirely comfortable with that kind of showing of.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 11, 2010, 17:15
Councilmember Troyas lifts an eyebrow slightly and points a quill at Karan's sword. "I would ask you to sheathe that weapon in my presence. You are not from this town and do not know our practices, so I will accept this simply as a...misunderstanding. But yes, thank you." Troyas' gaze focuses on Norian "I had heard that your cleric must be highly faithful, as it was he who actually slew the Ogre that was rampaging in the Eastern Quarter last night. I am heartened to see that there is physical prowess to protect such talent."

"But still, the matter remain heavy on my mind - you answered a summons for help, yes. But for monetary gain. Could it be that money is the only goal within your sights?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 12, 2010, 06:41
- "Some might have because they wanted to help those in need" - Warforged glanced at the cleric - "Others might have felt called to there. Yet others still might have came for the gold, or because it helps them reach their goals. If the results are the same, does it matter so much? Even in Nerath we used mercenaries in times of great need and properly payed dog of war could prove as faithful as someone fighting for his cause.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 12, 2010, 07:14
Rah is sort of daydreaming when Graven's mention of the word "dog" snaps him out of it. Something important happening? Rah must contribute!
"Yah! Rah come because of... I forget now. But now I have seen light! I serve dog now."
Rah smiles. Then scratches himself.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 12, 2010, 11:41
Hearing his companions' remarks made Adis chuckle. "I cannot speak for my companions, but I am a wanderer. Such a life required I not be choosy when a job is offered. It is true that I accepted this job for money, but I accept other forms of payment as well. And... you don't have to worry about betrayal, at least not from me. If your coin is in my pouch, I am yours until I finish my job." Adis' face was turning more serious with each word he spoke, and then suddenly he smiled, returning to his normal carefree expression.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 13, 2010, 01:06
"Good sir, I know not your religious beliefs, however, I believe you at least know that Pelor watches over us all, and it is my job to alleviate any pain and suffering that I come across, even if I must deal some to do so. I tell you as a servant of the Holy Sun, we do this not just for money, we each have our own reasons that we carry with us. Fate,it seems, has brought us together."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 04:30
'Money' sniggered Karan. 'I care not for it. I have evidence solid enough to suspect that the Red Hand is somewhat connected to the being I devoted my life to hunt down and kill. As long as this connection is still visible, I need no further motivation to sacrifice everything I have for this mission.'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 13, 2010, 04:40
A smile creases Councilmember Eoffram Troyas' face, and he sits back in his chair to regard you. "I will admit, you're not what I expected. Fate indeed, cleric. I will petition the council in regards to your merits. We reconvene at the evening bell, and I will send for you when we finish. Until then, I would suggest you take a look at the Great Hall of Valor, located just across the town square. I have been informed that there are several...items of interest, shall we say, that have gone missing. I believe visiting with Javil may make you a bit more aware of exactly what the council will ask of you."

"Oh, one other thing - your talented cleric handed a sheet of parchment sealed with a most curious magic over to a Guardsman last night. Considering what we have been able to discover of the nature of the enchantment, letting it out of your sight was not the cleverest thing to do. I also gather that each of your carries such a letter? If so I would keep the remaining copies quite close at hand. I will do my best to persuade our scholars to stop deciphering its nature and return it to you."

"Now please, begone. I have other tasks that need my attention before the council meets tonight. The page at the door will direct you out." Abruptly, and with little to no ceremony you find yourself directed back into the afternoon sun.

Spoiler: Result (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 13, 2010, 05:59
- "Enchantment? I don't recall master of summons telling us anything about these..." - Graven points at the parchment - "...being enchanted."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 10:12
Adis shrugged "Sorry, it seemed like an authentication magic so I said nothing. Not unusual for document of this nature." he admitted, "Anyways I'm going over to the Hall of Valor he mentioned. It sounds interesting. Anyone want to come along?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 13, 2010, 10:38
- "This unit will accompany you then. Aldus mentioned yesterday that Javil can tell me more about Red Hand"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 14:55
'Might as well go with you' said Karan with a shrug. 'Not that I have anything better to do.'

For a while, she remained silent, pondering about something. Then, all of sudden, she turned towards you, and asked.

'How... common are tieflings in the places you come from? And how are they treated?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 15:10
"Hmm, not too many. I never really had a home, but I suppose the Mage Order I studied under would be a close equivalent. We had several there, but to those devoted to the arcane arts, prejudice frowned upon as it impedes the studies of those around you." Adis replied. "As for seeing any before the... Order..." his voice began to trail off as he tried to recall something from his memory, but to no avail. With a deep sigh he shook his head. "Sorry I can't remember anything else. For some reason my memory gets hazy when ever I try to remember anything before my second year at the Order."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 15:40
Karan nodded in response.

'Thank you for the answer, even if incomplete, Mage. I as well understand how does it feel to have memories that you can't access. Though...' she paused, likely not sure whether to continue, before finally doing so 'At times I have... dreams. Nightmares, to be exact. And I in grave fear that they are more than mere dreams. That they are, actually, fragments of memories. And if it so... I don't want to remember.'

She stopped talking, and gave you tentative smile.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 16:17
Adis couldn't help but laugh at the mention of nightmares. "I too know a thing or two about... Nightmares. In fact I was told I used to wake up screaming. I still have them, every night in fact. But I got used to them. Sometimes I even enjoy my nightly... 'journeys' " Even though the topic was so serious, Adis' face contained a huge grin.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 16:27
'I am having hard time imagining how could you 'enjoy' them, Mage' replied Karan, sharing the smile, which soon faded, as she continued her speech. 'Though, I do as well... In a fashion. I dream of killing, spilling blood. I see images of people I killed and those I wanted to kill... And I want to kill more, to taste blood and rage, caring for nothing and no one, on constant rampage. I dread the day those dreams are going to come true.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 16:42
"Heh, reminds me of watching Legion Devils fighting in Baator. Was really unsettling the first time."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 16:44
Instead of replying, Karan gave Adis a surprised glare.

'Mage? What did you mean?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 16:57
Adis stopped, his face suddenly contemplative. "Did I say that out loud? Oh dear, I suppose it would have come out eventually." He paused, and collected his thoughts. "I suppose the easiest way to explain is that I have a hole in my mind about the size if a pin head. That 'hole' leads to the Outer Planes. I do not know what put it there but every night I am treated to a random view of the Outer Planes. They also seem to be slanted towards the more evil oriented Planes Like Baator, the Abyss or Gehenna. Actually Gehenna isn't that bad, just a lot of empty land..." His explanations quickly turned into a travel guide from his observatons as he began to talk more and more to himself rather than his companions.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 13, 2010, 17:04
Surprisingly, Karan chuckled, though there was little happiness in it.

'Outer Planes, you say? Well, then you might have seen my father somewhere out there...'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 13, 2010, 17:25
"Hey guys! Wait up!" Norian runs up from behind, having lagged a bit. "What are you two talking about? Is it something interesting?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 17:34
Adis fell back a step and put an arm around Norian's shoulder. "You bet! Say Norian, you ever wonder what Pelor looks like..."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 13, 2010, 17:44
"Why, yes. I have always wondered what Pelor REALLY looked like. I mean," Norian looks quizzical for a second, "They sort of give us an approximation while we're learning the ways of a Cleric, and his "face" adorns my holy symbol, but I've always wondered what he would appear as to me. Why do you ask?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 18:21
"Well then you are in luck my friend because I, Adis, have the ability to random gaze into the outer planes and if I'm lucky I will take a peek into Elysium. So should I see Pelor, I will get back to you..."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 13, 2010, 19:22
The Hall of Great Valor is a well constructed wooden building, about 50 feet in width, and twice that in length. It appears to have been quite heavily damaged in last nights festivities: chairs and tables are scattered and strewn about. Flame scarred boards sag from the vaulted ceiling, and in a few places it seems that the roof might actually collapse. A hodgepodge of people are trying to clear the rubble and five in the centre are actually constructing scaffolds to fix the roof. These people seem to know what they are doing, and tend to pay you little to no attention.

Hailing two dwarves entering with a huge wooden beam gets you pointed in the direction of where Javil is most likely to be - a small room on the far side of the rubble. Getting five people across the rubble littered floor is no small task, and it takes the better part of half an hour before you are able to knock at a small door with the inscription "Scholar of Valor". The door was not locked, and apparently not sealed at all. It swings slowly inwards, and after a few seconds a disheveled looking man stops rifling through a pile of paper work to acknowledge your entry.

His eyes narrow at you, and he doesn't appear very welcoming. "What? What do you want? If you're here to help with the Hall, ask the dwarves in the centre of the room. They'll give you a task."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 13, 2010, 23:19
"Actually we were told that some items of interest we stolen during the raid. We have come to inquire, at Councilman Troyas behest, about them and any information about the Red Hand."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 14, 2010, 02:41
Javil's eyes widen and he stares at your group for about three seconds before realizing that you're serious...and at once bursts into almost maniacal laughter. He manages to sputter out "You...Troyas...items of interest..." and then keeps laughing, all the while walking over to a large cabinet, also full of paperwork. While slowly quieting down, he takes a small bottle from the third drawer down and drains the contents of it.

"Ahem. Sorry about that. Well, I'm Javil, as I'm sure you could figure out. And yes, I'd say that there were some items of interest that were taken from the Hall last night. All of the commemorative "treasures" that the town kept to remember their stand against the Red Hand were taken. Secondly - and ever so slightly more important - my sun-blighted Castellan of the Hall got kidnapped!"

He once more attempts to drain the bottle, discovers that it is indeed still empty and throws it away in disgust. He doesn't really seem in the mood for small talk...
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 14, 2010, 02:43
- "Castellan of the Hall? You mean goblins didn't only steal old treasures and wreck the place but also kidnap one of people working here?" - warforged asked
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 14, 2010, 03:22
Javil blinks at such a question coming from the Warforged. "And now a Warforged! Gods be praised! We might actually have a chance beating back these Hobgoblins!" He was clearly not looking at you very closely earlier, and takes a moment to peer over the people standing in front of him.

"Alright, you've got my attention. Yes, Sertanian got kidnapped. I hear he's not the only one, either. But he's the most important one as far as I'm concerned. I own this shambles of a Hall, and he's the one who keeps everything running and catalogues what is actually in here. So to be blunt: I have no clue what actually got stolen. There were some shields, a big heavy sword, a helmet that I can remember, but I'm sure there's more stuff missing than that. All of it was either used to banish the Red Hand or was worn by their filthy excuse for an army. Doesn't take much to put two and two together and get 'they want to kill us all and resurrect the Red Hand.' I take it then that Troyas wants you lot to help?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 14, 2010, 03:31
"Well," Norian said looking around, "That's pretty much what we figured he wanted us to do." Norian looked at the scholar, straight in the eyes, "I mean, we certainly are up to the challenge, and as a Cleric of Pelor, I know I cannot stand here and let these goblins try and terrioze the people, so, if you let us, we are willing and able to get everything, including the Castellan, back. Also, My buddy, Graven has some questions to ask about the Red Hand, but, considering the situation, it may have to wait..."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 14, 2010, 06:37
Javil sighs as he rifles through a pile of papers - which amounts to half of the mess the room is filed with. "Somewhere in this lot there's probably a mention of exactly what happened with the Red Hand. Not to mention a list of everything that's gone into this Hall. But I'll be damned if I can find it. The short version everyone knows, though: Bunch of Hobgoblins band together about ten years ago, decide that civilization has to go. Our Guards plus some helpful folks and a Warforged or two beat them back. Council decides they'll use my Hall to house the artifacts, and I get a Castellan to look over all my expenses and the Hall. Everything's fine and dandy and then my Hall gets ransacked, and I run out of my last stopper of mead."

"Look, I'm sure this is all very fun and whatnot for you fine people, but I've got to try and make sense of this...and make sure that the dwarves don't break anything out there. It's nearly time for them to finish for the day...and I have to arrange for them to be fed, or I'll not hear the end of it." Javil appears to be quite happy to get out of the room as he pushes through your group and towards the rubble filled Hall. In parting he calls out, "Have a look through those papers if you want. I'll be back in an hour, and you'll have to clear out then, though."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 14, 2010, 07:08
Norian looks as the run-ragged scholar walks out the door. "He needs a vacation, badly." Norian looks skyward, "Oh Pelor, mighty sun, could you find it in you to give Javil some time off in the near future?" He looks back down at his companions "Well then, shall we start looking? We've got an hour to look, so let's start looking."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 14, 2010, 07:18
- "We agree. If the council intends to get us to help them, as current data suggests then we should get all information we can. Especially considering that our summons mean we have limited amount of time.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 14, 2010, 08:08
"Yes! We punch evil until it goes boom ok! You ca-" Rah's heroism is suddenly cut short as his vision is suddenly surmounted by...
Paperwork. Documents. Books. Files. Scrolls.
Woooords.
"I-iiee aah-"
Rah's forehead begins to sweat profusely. Nobody must know that he cannot read!
"Uh-uhm you all too slow! Rah show you how to do it!"
Rah dives into a pile of paperwork and starts randomly shuffling them back and forth muttering "hmm ah yes indeed" while furrowing his brows.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 14, 2010, 08:33
Even without the help from the Halfling, (who is quite successful on his Bluff check) you have a mammoth task in front of you. Ten years of paperwork isn't an easy thing to sort through in an hour. Javil is late returning to kick you out of the office, giving you just short of two hours to search. In that time you manage to uncover the following information:

Sertanian is the Castellan of The Hall of Great Valor. He's a lousy record keeper.
There are seven items that that were on display on the section of wall displaying the heroics in defeating the Red Hand.
The sword is quite heavy and made of platinum - custom wall hangers had to be made to hold its weight.

Javil is much more composed when he enters the office once more. "Any luck? No, nevermind. I don't want to think about paperwork for the rest of the night. Don't worry about where you set your papers down, just get out. The council is running late tonight. Troyas sent a messenger, letting you know you could stay at the Antler and Thistle again tonight care of the council. Now please, get out so I can get off to dinner myself."

A path had been cleared through the rubble in the Hall of Great Valor, making your exit a lot easier than your entrance. A Guard at the entrance took up position behind you as you made your way back towards the Antler and Thistle once more, and was even helpful enough to let you know when you took a wrong turn. Aldus treated you to a full dinner, Grilled Boar with a pumpkin sauce. A light cherry mead was served for desert.

Another message came just as dinner was wrapping up. Aldus read it, smirked and turned to your group. "Well, folks, it looks like the council is as long winded as ever. They say they've come to a decision, but they're going to wait to tell you what they've decided until they've sorted a few more things out in town. Apparently someone will be here at day break to fill you in. Typical. Anyways, you know where your rooms are, beds are fresh. Tonight's on the council, but like you as much as I do, I'm going to have to start charging if you keep coming back here, alright? Don't stay up too late, because I'll be waking you early." The call of a woman (his wife presumably) gives him an excuse to wander away.

All in all, you didn't manage to actually accomplish much today.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 14, 2010, 15:28
With loud sigh of relief, Karan took off her armour and unstrapped the sword from her back.

'At last' she muttered, stretching. Moment later, she sat down on one of the benches, only to raise again few moments later.

'Night is warm today' she said quietly, almost like she was speaking to herself, walking towards the door to the outside. She turned towards right before she left, saying 'If the gates are not closed, I should be back in an hour or two'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 15, 2010, 05:44
Karan's walk is uneventful, as a Guard tags along a few paces behind.

There is a subtle tension in the air this evening, and your sleep is restless. A crisp breeze wakes you, and your new morning ritual at the Antler and Thistle is interrupted by the man waiting for you downstairs. None other than Troyas himself.

"Good morning" are his only words until all of you are downstairs. His constant eye contact is a bit unnerving, and you find yourselves sitting at the table he is standing in front of without even thinking about it.

He waits until you're all suitably uncomfortable, and speaks "The council has come to a decision. Before I reveal it, I need you to understand something. Not all of the council is happy about this decision. Quite a few of them do not support the idea of hiring adventuring groups. The reasons may be subtle, but perhaps they could be as simple as money spent on you is less money for certain renovations on certain homes. But I digress."

His hand reaches inside his robes momentarily, and he pulls out Norian's summons. "This, I believe, is yours. Be more careful with it in the future." He sets the parchment near the centre of the table, and finally sits.

"The details of what the council would ask of you is this: there are seven persons missing from Brindol." He raises a finger with each name. "Kartenix - the captain of our Guards. Thurann - Kartenix's eight year old boy. Mirtala - a local cook. Sertanian - Castellan of the Hall of Great Valor. Jalissa - an acolyte of Ioun. Zerriksa - a herbalist rumored to have learned dark magic. Adronsius - an alchemist, sole proprietor of Alchemy by Adronsius. We would task you with their safe return if possible. Failing that, we would ask for their return."

"There are also the items from the Hall of Great Valor. These have little to no actual value, but they have meaning to Brindol. We would ask them returned. That would hinge on finding Sertanian alive, or being lucky enough to find and identify them in an alternative fashion. The items that the Red Hand wore would bear their crest, a dark red hand, fingers pointing skyward."

"In return for accomplishing these tasks, we would provide you with whatever aid the good people of Brindol can muster. I can promise this would not be a small sum."

His statements seem to have come from one breath. He obviously didn't rehearse this speech. Just good at saying what needs to be said, apparently. Troyas waits for a moment before continuing, "What say you in this matter?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 15, 2010, 05:52
Norian looks at his companions, then looks at the summons, he grabs it, and boldly proclaims "I think I speak for us when I say, that we accept this offer, and will be on our way shortly. But if anyone has any objections, speak now."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 15, 2010, 05:59
- "We need to remember we have a timelimit for arriving in Overlook, even if it's quite a long one. As long as we manage to recover missing people and items within it I agree this would be to benefit to all" - Graven nods - "We think world doesn't need another goblinoid army."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 15, 2010, 06:25
Karan returned from her night trip shortly before Troyas stormed in, slightly tired but cheerful.

'Well, I'd like to ask whether you have any clues on where those people can be now, of on the place from which the goblins came from?' she said after the council member finished his speech. 'Also, how far is Overlook from here? How many days of travel are needed to reach it?'

After a second of consideration, she asked one more question.

'Also "whatever aid and goods the people can muster" sounds rather vague for me...' she begun carefully. 'Pardon me, but experience commands me to ask: how much exactly?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 15, 2010, 06:38
Councilmember Eoffram Troyas breathes a sigh of relief and folds his hands gently in front of him, allowing a real smile to touch his lips. "I assure you that the limited time imposed by your summons will not be a problem. Overlook is five days march from here, perhaps four if the need is pressing. But Marthton is less than a day distant. The Master of Summons seal was inked there. Were the limit to come upon us, I believe we could come to an arrangement with him."

"As to the reward I am afraid I cannot say exactly, politics being as they are. For those taken captive, that would depend upon their fate. If they return in good health, the council could not refuse to compensate you. As for returning the items from the Great Hall of valor, I can assure you 200gp. I will pay that myself if necessary."

"To the question of where to go next: I would suggest that you follow the Goblins' trail leading towards the North as quickly as possible, if not for one thing. Two night ago during the raid, we managed to capture a Hobgoblin who identifies himself as Morrik. I personally would suggest attempting to persuade him to reveal a safe route to their base of operations, should they have a permanent one."

Troyas begins to speak again, but stops himself. He glances at the sun now streaming inside through the front windows. "I am afraid that the council will be meeting again soon, and my presence will be required. I have told you what we know, so unless there are any further questions, I must take my leave. May Pelor light your path."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 15, 2010, 06:42
- "Where we can find this... Morrik... if we decide to try and gain some information from him?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 15, 2010, 06:48
Troyas, nearly through the door, turns around "Oh didn't I say? He's chained in the square down by the river. North and west of here. You'll have to pass by him to cross the bridge over the river to the Northern gate regardless. If you have need of me, ask a Guard. I will try to answer as quickly as possible." With that he is gone, leaving you now to decide your own fate.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 15, 2010, 06:52
Norian shouts as Troyas leaves "May Pelor always shine on you!" as is customary for Clerics from his school to say when someone of importance leaves. "Well then, let us go find this Morrik fellow." Norian, for once, leads the charge.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 15, 2010, 18:41
"If questioning Morrik becomes difficult, would any of you have objections to me persuading him?" Adis asked. You could clearly tell from his face that he was thinking up creative ways to persuade Morrik.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 16, 2010, 02:14
"Um..." Norian nervously said as he looked around. "Depends on what you have in mind for Persuasion. I can't say that I'll tolerate any harsh action against him, though I haven't met him yet, so who knows...At any rate, you have to give us an idea of what you're going to do."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 16, 2010, 02:19
"Oh, I'll just ask him a simple question: Would he rather be caught lightning storm or an ice storm, then I'll show him what it's like depending on his answer; He'll just have to stay 'there' until he's ready to answer our other questions. I wont kill him of course, but this all depends on how he behaves."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 16, 2010, 02:27
"Erm..." Norian looks a little uneasy. Obviously, this could get messy, but, it was true that they may need the information. "I guess that is fine. As much as I don't approve of it, sometimes, you have to do things you don't wan't to." Norian looks up at the sky, and offers an apology to Pelor "Oh Pelor, Holy Sun, please forgive us for what we may do in our quest, for there might not be any other way" Norian looks down "And with that, it is time to go find our new friend Morrik."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 16, 2010, 03:23
Getting to Brindol's town square was quite simple, walk north to the walls, and west until you hit the river and viola! Town square!

In the centre of the square there's a set of makeshift stocks. The Hobgoblin is currently occupying them, and appears to be shackled as well. Two Guards stand nearby to make sure that he doesn't escape...as well as the townsfolk don't get overzealous with him. That being said, there is quite a lot of evidence of rotten fruit and vegetables having been thrown in his direction. That being said, at least the wounds he sustained in the raid two nights ago have been bandaged. He appears to be nearly fully healed from the encounter.

Skill Challenge: Persuade Morrik

The Guards nod in your direction, apparently aware of your new assignment in that they seem to be expecting you. They smile menacingly towards Morrik and say "Well Hobgoblin, now you're in for it. These five took down your Ogre. Imagine what they'll do to you." One Guard winks at you and they step away from the stockades. They do stay well within earshot, though.

Morrik wearily raises his head, looks your group over and grunts out, "I ain't saying nothin' unless you people let me go."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Order (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 16, 2010, 04:19
"Listen, Morrik. We're not here to torment you." Norian glares at Adis a bit "We simply want some information. Now, of course, I don't want it for free. I'm willing to bargin. Granted, I probably can't obtain your freedom, but I'm sure we can work something out, say, better treatment, perhaps? What do you say?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 16, 2010, 07:57
'Let us cut a deal' said Karan, sitting in the front of shackled goblin. 'We can do two things to you, you know. Kill you were you are and spare you several weeks if not months of constant humiliation followed by messy death due to stray stone thrown by one of angered townsfolk. Or something similar, believe me, you would not be the first goblinoid to end up that way' she paused, and gave the goblin a dry smile. 'Or, you could cooperate, tell us how to reach your camp safely, and then we would do our best to ensure that you are released.'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 16, 2010, 09:47
Rah knew nothing of this diplomacy stuff! But he could tell his friends needed help. Rah looks to the sky and ponders, What Would Peelor Do? Hmm...

I have to do something that Peelor likes. Peelor is a dog. Dogs like... tummy scratches?

He looks at the hobgoblin. He did not look like he'd enjoy a tummy scratch.

He sees all the refuse around the hobgoblin. The rotten food didn't look nice. Food! What food do dogs like... meat!

Rah, convinced of this unbreakable chain of logic, does what is Right.
"Yous"
Rah points a leg of roasted meat at the hobgoblin
"Have meats. Meats taste good. Eat lots. Then talk, ok?"
He reluctantly hands the meat to the hobgoblin.

Giving away meat... Peelor is very demanding! Rah gains more respect for Nori - he must have it tough.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 16, 2010, 14:19
- "Well if he decides he doesn't want to talk you can always leave him with Adis and us." - Graven's eyes give ominous green glow for a moment - "This unit predicts that some of spirits here wouldn't mind a god talk with the creature.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 16, 2010, 16:52
During his companions attempts at getting the Hobgoblin to talk, Adis was practicing his spells. Refining them in plain sight of the wretched creature. Seeing as it was his turn, Adis walked over to Morrik with a huge smile and began to whisper in his ear.
"Have you ever thought about what an ice sculpture feels like?" With that Adis pointed his stave at the ground, freezing it with a Ray of Frost. Morrik was unharmed, but his feet were now standing on icy ground. "If the experience interests you, we can start with the toes and work our way up. If you're not interested..." Adis' voice suddenly got dark, "we will start with the toes and work our way up..."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 17, 2010, 02:53
Morrik swings his head around, and accepts the meat feebly. He bites viciously from the leg, apparently not noticing the chill creeping up from his feet. He mutters briefly in his tongue and turns back to Adis, doing his best to stare him down, saying "You lot took down an Ogre, right? You kin' do better than this."

The Guards grunt at his comment, but stay away from your group for the moment.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 17, 2010, 03:22
When Morrik speaks in Goblin, Norian picks it up. He cringes a bit, and whispers to Adis "Hey, knock it off with the spellcasting. He just said "Cast one spell and me and you'll never make it to Rivenroar, pig." So, we need to figure something else out."
Straightening back up, Norian tries to figure out what to do next. He decides to try and impress the goblin with some history that he learned in training.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 17, 2010, 10:21
Rivenroar
For some reason that name stuck a chord with Adis'. Now where could I have heard that before?
Was it in the Curator's office at the Hall of Honor? Or perhaps from a drunkard recalling an old tale?...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 17, 2010, 15:16
'I just want to remind you, goblin, that in our hands is your future, or lack of it. You give us what you what we want, you help yourself. And remember, that if we don't get the information we want from you, we will just take the most obvious path, slaughtering more of your kind on the way. Is that what you really want?'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 17, 2010, 16:32
- "You know, telling us what we want to know won't hurt you. And as other said it might help you instead" - Graven's eyes returned to normal

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 17, 2010, 16:51
"Sooooo..."
Rah nervously looks around. What to ask... oh!
"How about dem bear pits. You been to bear pits? The bears have got these new muzzles with underslung cheek spikes, and..."
Rah continues to ramble to the hobgoblin about various manly things.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 18, 2010, 04:34
"Alright, alright! Just shut up! Yes, Rivenroar, and damn you whoeva can understand Goblin. Old Castle, north and east of here. Full day's walk, nearly. Tracks should lead you right there. I suppose I could draw you a map. Unlock me and I can scrawl it in the dirt."

The Guards grunt and laugh at this, converse and say "Durus will get a page with some paper. If you can't draw it yourself, he can do it for you. But you're NOT getting set loose." One Guard (the slimmer one, probably because he's more fit) starts walking back the way you've just come.

Morrik scoffs and twists in his chains, but the only retort he can think of is "You just remember how cooperative I'm bein' here, dammit!" His eyes turn back to you and he continues "You lot had better remember it too. And if you're off to meet with Sinruth, then remember how helpful I'm being in sending you to your death."

The Guard returns shortly and a map is sketched without too much trouble, protesting, or curses. It depicts a route towards the North, to a castle in a remote mountain pass. Rivenroar, apparently. The route tends to skate around the edges of the forest beneath the mountains, and Morrik explains that the trail saves a hell of a lot of time getting there, as the forests are quite overgrown.

Having finished the task of giving you a readable (if somewhat lacking, but what can you expect from a Goblin?) map to Rivenroar and this Sinruth fellow, he turns back to your group. "Now if there wasn't anything else, I've got a busy schedule to get on with. Rotten fruit in two hours, gots to prepare!" His tone of voice is layered with icy sarcasm.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 18, 2010, 04:46
"I suggest we prepare for the trip. I will go back to the Hall of Honor and see if I can find any additional information that our 'friend' here may have forgot to tell us. Anyone is welcome to join me if they wish."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 18, 2010, 11:59
The day is still quite young, and you've got a map so the going should be much easier. An arbitrary time limit for leaving the town is set for midday. Adis manages to pull through some more papers, learning nothing more about the treasure, but by some (critical?) chance, there is a bit of information on Rivenroar. Apparently some group had to go through the specific mountain pass that Rivenroar is entrenched in. You don't learn much, as the document is around seven years old, but they do mention that the main structure of the castle was collapsed at the time. Doesn't sound like much of a base of operations... The group also made note that they encountered a lot of bear dropping in the area around the pass. Sertanian really was a crappy record keeper to have this document in with the rest.

Your preparations finished, you set off towards the North, following the map, as well as the tracks of the Goblins. But what's this, time for another...

Skill Challenge: Tracking the Goblins

Not far from the town, you encounter a thick forest. Morrik's map and the tracks both lead you into it, though according to what Morrik told you it shouldn't get too thick along the route he's directed you on. The track is still quite rugged, and it's going to take a lot of endurance to stay on track here...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Order (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 18, 2010, 12:05
Graven followed the track without showing signs of tiredness. Makes sense when you think about it: it would be wierd for construction of wood and metal - even one that has own personality - to be tired.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 18, 2010, 12:18
Rah is in his element, the wilds!

He is a flurry of activity! One moment he's on all fours sniffing the ground, at others he is jumping to and from trees investigating the wider area.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 18, 2010, 14:07
Karan took the lead, and soon felt the consequences. While she was still keeping up to the tempo, her breath grew faster and shallower with each step.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 18, 2010, 16:07
Norian does his part by looking around, and making sure everyone is keeping up. He then tries to focus on anything out of the ordinary.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 18, 2010, 16:29
Years of scholarly studies have left Adis' body lacking in stamina. Despite his desperate struggle too keep up, he finds himself lagging behind.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 18, 2010, 21:12
Your path is easily found with the map, and Rah helps you avoid a couple of routes that seem to be trails, but actually just lead off to small cliffs. Sadly, the party isn't doing too well with the crisp mountain air and rugged conditions, and the whole group has to pitch in to keep at your best.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 18, 2010, 22:26
Still stumbling behind, Adis notices a small patch of flowers. Upon closer inspection he recognizes them as Flos Rutilus, a wildflower with small, bright red petals. The files back in the Hall of Honor mentioned them, as the previous adventuring group had come across a rather large patch of them on the way to Rivenroar.
"Keep your eyes out for a large patch of Red flowers." he called out.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 19, 2010, 03:19
Graven continued forward, albeit at slower pace - he had to help those of lesser condition along the way.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 19, 2010, 03:30
Apparently, Karan has regained her stamina somehow, for after a few tough minutes, her breath again returned to normal pace, and her stride again was long and firm.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 19, 2010, 04:40
Rah strolls on! The common perception of halflings being weak is simply incorrect - you see, their smaller stature actually has a concentrating effect; which also suggests that the larger members are all actually very weak and...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 19, 2010, 04:57
Norian once again has to play lookout, and does a fairly decent job.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 19, 2010, 05:00
Your group seems to be getting far better at this whole hiking thing! The map easily leads you through the wilderness, and you even manage to discover a small shortcut along the way. Keep up the good work...

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 19, 2010, 05:03
Seeing others started to have easier time travelling Graven once again moves up front.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 19, 2010, 05:11
Rah has a feeling of... unease. He focuses his senses, trying to see if there is danger afoot!

He scurries just behind Graven.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 19, 2010, 05:15
With each step, Karan seems more and more joyful, whistling some sort of merry melody. She seems to like hiking, no doubt.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 19, 2010, 05:21
Adis does his best to look for more signs, whether it be the elusive patch of Flos Rutilus or signs of the local wildlife.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 20, 2010, 00:06
While a very fine individual, Norian had been out of practice, and and as such, struggled to get in behind Rah incase they were attacked.


Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 20, 2010, 00:12
Your group winds its way around a bend in the trail and comes to a small canyon. Over the rocks at the far end of the canyon you can see what looks like a ruined parapet. Rivenroar must be close. The map indicates that this should be the last canyon to pass through and Rivenroar should be at hand. You descend.

Kruthik Ambush

As you walk along the canyon floor Rah yelps out that there are a few areas where the ground looks quite unstable. A faint clicking sound answers his yelp, and suddenly four scaled bodies climb up from under a rock in the middle of the canyon ahead of you. Two of them are larger than the others, and they issue a series of clicks back and forth. Kruthiks! The creatures are covered with spikes and gnashing pinchers and from the looks of things standing next to them isn't the smartest option available. They glare over at you malevolently, and you can tell that safe passage isn't an option.

Spoiler: Skill Challenge (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Terrain (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR1T1.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 20, 2010, 03:12
"Ah! Nasties!"
Rah begins sprinting forward!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 20, 2010, 03:48
"Kruthiks! To battle, everyone!" Norian moves in front of Graven, and checks for more weak ground. Unfortunately, He couldn't see a thing.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 20, 2010, 04:31
Both players advance with no ill effects. Nothing new is discovered.
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR1T2.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 20, 2010, 05:18
Karan drew her sword, and launched forward, seeking to engage the creatures as soon as possible.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 20, 2010, 05:52
Both Kruthik Adults advance forward, firing Toxic Spikes towards the two closest people they can reach, namely Rah and Karan. Man, those have to smart!

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (editted with Graven's perception check) (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR1T5.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 20, 2010, 06:23
- "Watch out - we sense there is more unstable ground in this place." - Graven points out locations quickly then moves around nearest patch of dangerous ground and charges one of the adult kruthiks.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 20, 2010, 06:38
Graven quite successfully points out new unstable ground...and whiffs away at a Kruthik Adult. Graven stops his actions right next to both of the Adult Kruthiks, and finds out that they're VERY spiky. Might not be such a good idea to stand still close to them.

The Kruthik Young take up flanking positions around Karan, and viciously maul her for all they're worth. She's not looking very good out there...

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR1T8.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 20, 2010, 07:01
The sudden movements of his allies left Adis completely behind. Taking a few steps forward, Adis looked over to see Karan in dire need of assistance. With a few utterances, a white bolt flew towards the nearest Kruthik Young

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 20, 2010, 07:41
Rah howls! He leaps into the air, aiming a flying kick at the ... whatever the thing was. "That hurt! Me kick you inside out!"
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 20, 2010, 07:58
Rah's amazing martial prowess allows him to leap forward and smack the Kruthik Adult for a solid amount of damage, as well as push it tottering back onto the weakened ground. It chitters in alarm and plunges ten feet into a large hole in the ground!

Rah manages to shake off the effects of the Toxic Spike lodged in him, but still regrets landing next to a Kruthik adult as its violent thrashing about leaves him with a few scratches.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 21, 2010, 11:12
"Karan! Lords alive...Hold on!" Norian started running, albiet very carefuly, due to the unstable ground. He hangs back, as he doesn't want to get too close, and first heals Karan, and then tosses a Lance of Faith at the Youngling in front of him.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 21, 2010, 12:18
Covered head to toe in her own black blood and feeling the poison rushing through her veins, Karan quickly snatches a vial of blueish liquid from her belt, and drinks it. Heartbeat later, she turns around and takes a wide sweep at the wounded creature.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 21, 2010, 15:48
Karan feels new vitality rushing into her veins! Sadly, with all that vitality she overcompensates and only knocks a few spikes off the nearest of the smaller Kruthiks.

The Kruthik that Rah knocked into the hole easily climbs out with it's spiky claws. It scutters away, firing it's Toxic Spikes at Rah and Graven, but is clearly quite dazed and misses by a longshot. The other Kruthik flails against Graven's armor, causing a few scratches in it, but no actual damage.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 21, 2010, 15:59
The construct didn't say a word - instead he aimed properly this time and took a swing at one of creature's legs. Cold aura from previous two battles returned.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 21, 2010, 16:15
Graven's attack hits home, and you can see the Kruthik isn't happy.

The younger two converge on Karan once more, and though they don't manage to be as coordinated about it they still manage to inflict a bit of damage.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR2T8.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 21, 2010, 17:10
The fight was well under way and moving further from Adis. Careful to mind the dangerous ground, he made his way closer to assist in the combat. Towards the back , Adis could see one of the Adults escaping. Taking careful aim, he launched yet another bolt of white at the fleeing creature.


Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 22, 2010, 06:17
Rah tries to flying kick the other Kruthik, but gets distracted by something shiny and whiffs. Looking rather embarassed, he scuffles behind Graven.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 23, 2010, 05:02
Norian winds up, and delivers another one to the same Youngling, he doesn't even move.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 23, 2010, 05:20
With a grimace of pain on her face, Karan sidesteps to get out of reach of second young creature, and delivers yet another powerful blow to the bloodied one, almost splitting it in half.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 23, 2010, 06:30
Adis' frosty ray barely misses the creature, what with having to aim past the smaller one.

Norian and Karan team up on the bloodied Young Kruthik and take it out! Karan follows that up with some solid damage to the remaining ball of spikes, gaining a few scratches in the process.

The larger Kruthik in the rear chitters wildly at the death of the younger one, and the remaining youngling seems to get quite agitated by it. Regardless, the Adult fires of a volley that barely misses Karan, but lodges itself quite deeply into Graven. The one closer to Graven follows that up with a deep cut from its claws. A viscous liquid starts dripping at Graven's feet.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR3T5.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 23, 2010, 06:46
- "Not... done... yet..." - Rune on Graven's forehead flashes as he rips out the spikes. Damaged parts get patched by green growth - though not entirely. Liquid was long gone by this time.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 23, 2010, 06:58
New strength flows back into Graven's body, and he stands a bit taller. There's a reason they're called Warforged. The Kruthik's spikes are ever thrashful. You can tell Graven is getting a bit annoyed by them.

The younger Kruthik chitters in alarm and turns to flee, letting Karan strike a solid blow as it scuttles away.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Map at this turn (http://chrisjohnson.110mb.com/scalesofwar/e3/Kruthik_AmbushR3T8.jpg)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 23, 2010, 18:11
A look of indignation crossed Adis' face as his bolt missed the intended target. Mother F.....
Noticing one of the young had run off, Adis quickly locates it and fires off another bolt of white.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 24, 2010, 05:16
Rah opens up with another flying kick!
"Last time was just trick ok!"
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 24, 2010, 06:44
"Oh no you don't. You're not going anywhere." Norian runs after it and fires another LoF at it. This one looks very promising.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 24, 2010, 06:56
Karan nods, acknowledging Norian's success before she launches forward towards the adult insect and forgoes her own defence to strike another powerful blow.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 24, 2010, 07:16
Adis finds his mark this time, causing the creature to shudder and slow. Rah slams another Kruthik into the same pit, adding insult to injury. Norian finishes off the younger Kruthik, while Karan smashes the bejeezus out of the Kruthik Adult in the rear. It's quite bloodied, but Karan discovers that bloodied spikes hurt just as much.

The Kruthik's claws rake through Karan's body. Your party stands in shock as her form drops to the ground. Seeing her collapsed form, it scuttles towards Adis. The second Kruthik scrambles from the pit, raking into Graven with its claws once more.

Spoiler: Result (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 24, 2010, 07:32
- "Now to repay the favour." - Graven's hammer fell again, adding one more injury to ones that the bug before him already had and taking a step to the side.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 24, 2010, 10:22
Having hit his mark, he turned to see if he could help anywhere else. Much to his dismay, He turned to see Karan drop and the Adult Kruthik scuttle next to him.
"Oh for the love of..." he muttered. Taking a wary step abck, Adis began a longer incantation than usual. "Herald of eternal sleep, relieve my foes of their worldly pains. Lead them to the Garden of Atrophy..."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 25, 2010, 07:06
Rah backflips over the hulking warforged and follows with another kick!
"More pit for you!"
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 26, 2010, 23:23
Graven's newfound resolve seems to have improved his somewhat hit and miss aim, and he smacks the Kruthik quite soundly. Adis successfully avoids the Kruthik in his face, and also manages to deal some damage in the process.

Rah however, is not so lucky with his attempt to knock the Kruthik pitward once more. He winds up with some more bad scratches from the creature's thrashing yet again.

Both creatures are looking a lot worse for wear.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Order reminder (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 27, 2010, 05:02
Norian sees Karan go down. Instead of panicking, Norian takes a breath, and plays it cool. I've got to inspire confidence, just like Aden does all the time. So, don't act worried, and instead, cooly and calmy walk over to Karan, heal her, and then see if Pelor allows me to strike down that Kruthik that was menacing Adis Norian starts on his walk. "Everyone! Stay calm! I got this!" He walks over to Karan as calmly as he can, while staying out of the Kruthik's gnashing claws, speaks a Word of Healing on Karan, and then throws a Lance of Faith at the Kruthik. The bright bolt is approaching the vile bug at great speed.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 27, 2010, 05:14
Badly bruised, but alive, Karan stands up.

'You have my thanks' she whispers to Norian, before grabbing her sword and charging at the adult kruthik.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 27, 2010, 05:53
Norian pulls Karan back from the brink of death, and sends one of the remaining Kruthiks off to meet it. Pelor smiles upon him as of late. Karan gets right back into the fray, smacking the final Kruthik quite badly. It still remains, and causes a bit more damage to our barbarian before it's finished.

The Kruthik, angered at its packmate's death, steps backwards and lets off another volley of spikes. Graven takes a swing at this, but only manages to get a spike embedded within him again. Karan fairs a bit luckier, and manages to dodge the poisoned barb.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 27, 2010, 06:14
- Hostile substance in the system, initiating purge - poison was yet again stopped before it could do damage to the warforged, and Graven struck another blow, drawing strength from the earth below his feet.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 27, 2010, 06:28
Graven's hammer falls hard, with a satisfying squish. The Kruthik twitches once more and is silent. Looking around you notice nothing else moving, but seeing the Kruthik nest on the top of the hill you decide it probably isn't the best thing to stay here long. Out the other end of the canyon you find yourself passing the occasional flagstone, and finally come to the ruined edges of Rivenroar. There's a lot of Goblin tracks all over the place, and from the looks of it they've come in force from the forest not too long ago. It does appear that they came from a different direction, though. All in all it's taken you 10 hours to get here.

Up in the mountains the shadows enclose quite quickly. Trying to set up camp in the fading light probably isn't the best idea, but it shouldn't be too difficult to find a safe enough hiding spot in the rocks and rubble. On the other hand, you are being paid to rescue people, and their saftey is less guaranteed with every passing moment. Finding the entrance in the dark could be a bit of a struggle, though...

Spoiler: Statistics (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 27, 2010, 06:34
- "Well it seems this is the place. Lets try and find the entrance, shall we?" - apparently darkness didn't discourage Graven.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 27, 2010, 06:49
With the threat now over, Adis takes a few moments to rest and remind himself of his longer spells. Not needing much time to recover from what would be considered mild exercise, Adis decides to help with the search. Using one of his Cantrips, Adis creates several torches out of branches laying about to help them locate the entrance without being too noticeable

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 27, 2010, 07:08
The search doesn't take that long, and you're not disturbed while conducting it. Once Rah points out the first mark on a flagstone - a red hand pointing downwards - finding the rest are quite easy. They lead around the foundation of this ruined structure, to a small building about twenty feet from the actually castle. This might be a good thing, considering the state of the castle proper. It looks like it's been heavily damaged in some sort of battle, and trying to search within it looks like it would be a deadly affair.

Finding the structure takes roughly twenty minutes of your time. The door is wooden and perhaps magically enchanted to resist rotting, as it stands as solidly now as the day it was constructed. An inscription is written above the door: "Within lie the nobles of Rivenroar, revered in life, revered in death." The latch seems quite simple to operate - a simple sliding mechanism accessible from either side. Probably simply for privacy, as it wouldn't keep graverobbers out.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 27, 2010, 07:24
"Honored in death eh? I certainly hope they take pleasure in the company of the filth inhabiting their resting places." Adis remarked dryly.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 27, 2010, 07:45
Wrapped in many bloodstained bandages, Karan frowned.

'As I know our luck, we are going to run into some undead there...' she mumbles. 'Maybe it's for the better, though.' she added after a moment of consideration. 'Skeletons don't bleed, at least.'

She sniffed.

'Gods, I feel sick' she murmured grudgingly.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
 
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 28, 2010, 01:43
Norian looks at his holy symbol and grins. "I hope there's undead in there, if there is, they are SO going to get obliterated. Anyways, who's got point?" Norian stands back, waiting for someone to open the door.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 28, 2010, 01:50
"I suggest someone checks it for traps or alarms. This whole night time raid would be pointless if they heard us coming."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 28, 2010, 03:30
None of you are able to find any trap or alarm on the door, magical or otherwise. It stands silently, judging you in the night.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 28, 2010, 04:51
'Mage... Adis?' spoke Karan, turning towards the wizard. 'I am in need of you services, if I can ask for them' she said, giving him something akin to a wry smile. 'Could you somehow suppress the smell of blood from my bandages?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 28, 2010, 05:04
"Erm, I suppose so..."
Speaking a few words, Adis began to trace various markings in the air around Karan's more heavily bandaged areas. Once done, he began reciting some more passages, much of which sounded like gibberish. As he did so the bandages not only began to smell clean, they also began to look it.
"Whew," Adis gasped for breath as he finished, "There, just keep in mind that it's only temporary and will return to normal in about an hour."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 28, 2010, 05:10
Karan took a deep breath and grinned. 'Adis, I can not even start to express my gratitude' she said happily.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 28, 2010, 12:38
Rah beelines to the shiny door opening mechanism.
"Lets go! Why worry? If there something scary, we punch it."

Rah attempts to open the door.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 29, 2010, 03:24
The door opens slowly and silently. A small landing greets you, followed by a stairway formed of large flagstones. The ceiling is roughly ten feet high, and the large wooden beams holding it up appear to be enchanted against rotting as well.

The stairway descends straight for around fifty feet, and a bright light can be seen at the end of it. The room at the end of this staircase is around fifty feet by fifty feet of T-shaped entryway. It's lit by two braziers at the far corners. You can make out faint grooves in the floor underneath the braziers that extend to the south wall. Also, there seems to be a small plaque on the door in front of you. You could probably read it quite easily if there weren't some Hobgoblins in the way.

The Chamber of Unbound Flame

The two closest to you weild crude flails, and stand somewhat ready for your approach. The ones nearer to the door appear to have crossbows at the ready. It seems the Goblins aren't stupid enough to not guard the main entrance. The two Hobgoblins have heavier armor, and cry out to their comrades behind them when Rah accidentally makes a small noise.

Spoiler: Environment (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Initiative Order (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 29, 2010, 04:17
Giving Rah a baleful glare, Adis turn his attention to the goblins ahead of him. Poking his staff from around Graven, Adis fired off a bolt of white in the enemies general direction. Realizing he just painted himself as a prime target, Adis quickly drops on all fours and scurries to the back of the group.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on June 29, 2010, 04:42
- "Somebody get the ones with crossbows" - Graven took two steps forward and slammed his maul down, causing the ground around him ripple.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 29, 2010, 05:17
Adis fires wide, and scuttles back in what I'm sure is a tactical manner. Graven manages to hit one of the Hobgoblin Soldiers for a marginal amount of damage.

Both the crossbow weidling Goblins take shots and hit, the one of the left fiddles with the door in the centre of the room. You hear a loud clank and the braziers start moving!

Both of the more heavily armed Hobgoblins swing and miss in Graven's direction.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on June 29, 2010, 05:31
Feeling the crossbow bolt piercing her skin, Karan hisses in pain and irritation before lunging towards the marksmen, drawing her sword on the run.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 29, 2010, 05:35
The Goblin sneers at Karan's missed swing, and changes position while she swings.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on June 29, 2010, 15:59
"Ok big boss!"
Rah nods to Graven, grins, and begins running on all fours, darting and weaving across the room before leaping at the offending goblin's face.

And Rah becomes a blur.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on June 30, 2010, 05:45
"Okay, it's not undead, but no matter. It is time for action! To arms, my comrades!"
Norian takes a LoF shot at the Goblin in front of Graven, he hopes to illuminate the target for his giant friend.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on June 30, 2010, 18:08
Rah's fists nearly kill the creature, and it staggers in a bloody fashion. To boot, Norian starts his deadly barrage of Lance of Faith.

The braziers, having moved towards the south wall about five feet suddenly glow a bit brighter. A huge ball of fire suddenly erupts from the western brazier travelling straight towards the brazier on the eastern side! Both Karan and Rah are lightly seared by the ball, while the Goblin dodges easily.

Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on June 30, 2010, 18:30
With the enemies now fully engaged, Adis jumped back to his feet. Looking around, he found his first target engaged with Graven. Let's see you dodge me this time...
With well practiced fluidity, Adis fired off his trademark Ray of Frost at the enemy.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 01, 2010, 02:59
Construct's maul rose and fell as he continued to pound on the goblin in front of him.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 01, 2010, 16:24
Adis and Graven team up on a Hobgoblin and he looks worse for wear after getting frozen and then mauled. Sadly, Graven's extra speed must have messed up his second attack.

With a quiet rattle followed by a clank, the braziers continue to move south.

The crossbow weilding Goblins take up better positions and fire off a volley, one misses Karan, while Rah gets a large bolt in his side. The wound drips heavily.

The Soldiers bark at each other and attack in tandem, shifting while in mid attack. One attack misses, while the other bites deep into Graven's...substance.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 01, 2010, 16:56
(Making move for Karan, since G is away and left her control to me)

Karan moves up to goblin she was attacking and swings two fast but inaccurate blows at him

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 02, 2010, 14:06
Rah clutches the wound on his side, trains his eyes on one of the goblins, and goes (more) feral!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 04, 2010, 03:00
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 06, 2010, 03:46
Norian finally acts after a few seconds of wondering what his crazy brother was up to.
"You know, despite all of the troubles we've had, I wonder if my brother still cares for me." As he thought this, he unconsciously sauntered over a few feet to just behind Graven. "I don't really know, him being off adventruing, much like myself..." Norian was still wondering away as he tossed a Lance of Faith at a goblin "...but I guess, in the end, brothers always love and care for one another, even in the oddest ways possible. The oddities of familial relationships...the one thing I already knew that no-one in training had even the slightest idea about. I always found that strange..." Norian notices Rah's bleeding, and heals him up, then goes back to pondering.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 06, 2010, 04:27
The tide of battle was quickly turning in everyone's favor. Reciting another chant , Adis moved up next to Norian. With a swift strike Adis slammed his staff into the ground, causing the area before him to erupt with electricity. Seeing no response from the enemies, Adis stuffed his quarterstaff in his pack in frustration.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 06, 2010, 04:48
Graven adjusted his position one step and swung his hammer, missing by a large margin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 06, 2010, 05:33
Norian further hurts the ranged attacker, while Karan and Rah fail to understand that standing between the braziers can be painful when a large fireball shoots back from east to west. Shortly after this a slow rattle sees the braziers moving north again.

The party continues their amazing damage output, and the Goblin with a crossbow shifts backwards, lodging a bolt in Graven's frame. One of the soldiers slams his flail against Graven, knocking him to the ground. The second misses an attack against Karan, then slides over towards Norian.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 06, 2010, 05:51
(Making move for Karan, since G is away and left her control to me)

Karan takes a step away from the soldier, to charge last standing sharpshooter.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 06, 2010, 06:33
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 06, 2010, 18:29
Rah rushes over and tries to simultaneously pummel the two remaining foes.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 08, 2010, 07:17
Norian figures he'll try and hit the goblin in front of him with his mace, and he tries a healing strike. then he thinks about it, and his brother,  and decides that would have best been left to Aden, so he takes a couple steps back, and heals Graven. He then does what he does best: Lance Of Faith. It goes well, heading towards the goblins chest.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 08, 2010, 08:35
Drawing an Orb from within his robes, Adis quickly made his way around the enemies. "All right let's try this again you bastards!" he exclaimed. Orb in hand he began to channel energy into the orb, reciting his spell. The orb steadily grew brighter. Suddenly it flashed and was once again dark. From below the floor crackled with lightning.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 08, 2010, 08:46
- "Status: critical - engaging damage control systems." - Graven slowly rose to his feet, while his wounds rapidly mended, both due to Norian's divine power and his own capabilities.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 09, 2010, 05:16
Ran distracts the Soldier getting up in Norian's grill, while Norian takes him out. Karan dodges another bolt shooting between the braziers. Graven, revived by Norian, kicks in his autorepair and removes his bloodied effect.

The braziers move back into their starting positions, and a loud clunk is heard.

The goblin misses very wide with his flail.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 09, 2010, 05:44
(Making move for Karan, since G is away and left her control to me)

Karan charges at the last goblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 09, 2010, 16:59
Rah opens up with another storm of flying limbs.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 12, 2010, 04:24
Norian throws yet another LoF.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 12, 2010, 04:46
The goblin rocked back and forth on unsteady legs. Each of his companions had dealt their blow and now it was Adis' turn to finish it off. Not wasting time, he began reciting. This time the orb turned black swirled with what looked like many white blades. Likewise the area surrounding the goblin to was filled with swirling blades.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 12, 2010, 05:06
Graven takes a swing at the goblin also.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 12, 2010, 05:34
At long last, the last Goblin twitches at your feet. After a small pause, and no noticeable noises, you take a quick look around the room. Turns out each of the doors has a small plaque on it. The West reads "To Von Urstadt", the North reads "To Rivenroar Family", the East reads "To Von Jallach".

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Extra Info (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 12, 2010, 05:45
Taking a quick look around Adis examines the doors. After several minutes of pondering he suddenly walks to the center of the room. Careful he sets his staff on end and lets go. The staff quickly loses balance and fall to the right.
"I say we go that way..." Adis suggests, nodding his head in the direction of the door on the right.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 12, 2010, 05:51
- "So far we heard name Rivenroar, not the other two. Wouldn't the center door be of more interest to us then?" - Graven asks while glancing over the room in case they missed something.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 12, 2010, 06:10
Graven the ever perceptive discovers what he can about the braziers and their balls of fire. Apparently they activate when the doors are opened in this room, and were probably just to impress anyone coming to visit the tombs to honor the inhabitants.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 13, 2010, 06:19
Karan sat heavily in the darkened corner, panting. Her face looked even more sickly now than before, as if she was suffering from a fever.

'Shit... shit... not again...' she mumbled. Second later, she snapped, presenting you a rather very sick sight: she raised her blade, and with eyes clouded by whatever raged in her mind, she begun to lick up blood from the steel. Apparently, after a second she realized what she was doing, immediately dropped the weapon, squirmed on the floor, and vomited.

It took her a few moments, to rise. She was very visibly embarrassed.

'I... apologize for this, really' she said, giving you a weak tentative smile. 'It is just blood... it drives some part of me crazy... rabid.'

After a second or two, she regained her confidence.

'I'd say that we do as Adis suggests. With a little bit of luck, those side passages are not as crowded as the centre can be. And, I trust, mage' she added, turning towards Adis and bowing her head slightly.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 16, 2010, 16:02
Norian is unsure what to do, listening to the deliberations, when, suddenly, he unconsciously goes for the left door and opens it, as if guided by a divine force. By the time Norian has noticed what he has done, the door's wide open. "Uh...what just happened?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 16, 2010, 16:08
The corridor behind the door extends about twenty feet before turning sharply right. There is light coming from that direction, and a bit of angry chatter in a language you can't comprehend can be heard.

Norian listens for a moment and is able to relate that there apear to be at least three Goblins fighting over who did better in the battle of Brindol. Their arguement is getting quite heated.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 16, 2010, 16:10
'If we can't decide, why not split in two teams, eh?' suggests Karan, seeing Noraian's action.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 16, 2010, 16:18
- "Right because splitting the already small group in enemy's keep always works out *great*. And we thought we were the crazy ones here." - Graven snarks.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 16, 2010, 16:24
"Shh! they might hear you! Okay, come on, we might want to get a closer look...or at least, let's wait until something happens. First rule of adventuring: NEVER SPLIT THE PARTY. FULL STOP."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 16, 2010, 16:43
The door, having stood open for what it deems to be long enough for the person opening it to pass through, begins to slowly close.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 16, 2010, 16:48
"Oh, Whoops!" Norian goes and holds the door open. makeing sure to not make too much noise.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 17, 2010, 08:22
"What ever is this way is clearly sounds angry. I suggest we let it, them, whatever duke it out. We can come back later and hopefully they will have killed each other. In the meantime I'm going to check the other door"
With caution, Adis approached the door on the right side. Opening it slowly he peeked inside.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 17, 2010, 14:03
'I would go straight for them' mutters Karan, wiping her blade. 'But I guess it is why I was never given the opportunity to issue orders back then' she added in slightly lowered voice after a second of consideration.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 17, 2010, 21:47
The right hand door opens to reveal a lefthand turn, an exact mirror of the corridor behind the door Norian opened. No light or sound can be detected.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 17, 2010, 22:08
Being met with silence and darkness comforted Adis a little. Without thinking he slowly made his way down the hallway and peeked around the corner.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 17, 2010, 22:20
Around the corner you can notice a faint blue glow coming from what appears to be the ceiling further ahead. After a moment of your eyes adjusting, you can make out a staircase leading up to a doorway. The glow is coming from beyond the doorway.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 17, 2010, 22:33
Slowly backing away from the stairs and eerily glowing door, Adis returned to his companions.
  "Hey, I think you may want to have look at this" he said, motioning to the door on the right.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 23, 2010, 17:02
Walking back into the dark hallway, Adis ascended the stairs. Slowly he peers through the empty doorway at the top...
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 23, 2010, 17:04
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 23, 2010, 17:20
Illuminated slightly above the archway into the room is an inscription reading "Von Jallach Family Tomb". It seems to have been carved with care, if that matters.

The source of light is easily ascertained. It comes from a square of runes in the floor in the centre of the room. Watching them is mesmerizing, and they pulse with light every few seconds. Looking around the room, the walls appear to have alcoves in nearly every face. They are empty, but look like they would be designed to hold bodies of the dearly departed. Finally, there is another set of doors in the eastern wall.

It should be noted that the only source of light is these glowing runes, though, and they're not that bright.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 23, 2010, 17:43
"Well, things look safe enough." Adis mumbled. With a wave of his hand he conjured an orb of bright light in the center of the runes. Walking forward, he pokes the runes with his staff.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 24, 2010, 02:29
Norian decides to see if he can get closer to listen in, and maybe hear something else interesting. If worse came to worse, he could run back to the main room, and he and his companions could easily dispose of the goblins. Norian does a little prayer to Pelor(Feeling odd because he's asking for shadows) and attemps to sneak to the edge of the hallway.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 24, 2010, 03:50
'I'll see how is the wizard doing, if you don't mind.'

Karan stood up, sheathing her sword, and going through the doors Adis went through few moments ago.

'This ought to be more refreshing than sitting in this room' she muttered to herself.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 24, 2010, 03:59
As Norian tries to sneak away he feels something grab him by his clothes.
- "I thought we agreed - no splitting the party" - he hears Graven growl quietly. The construct then continues to drag the cleric back towards the door most of the party picked
- "Hey mage - did the voices in your head drive you so mad that you intend on touching runes you know nothing about?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 04:47
A bright light suddenly fills the room that Adis is in, and Karan runs forward, seeing it. Adis' staff landing on the runes causes them to flare, and he receives a small shock for the action.

The runes appear to be oddly familiar to him, and he peers at them intently. He is able to ascertain that they spell out "Von Jallach" in a phonetic alphabet that some Wizards use in writing scrolls. There's something faintly odd about the script used, though, but he can't quite decipher it.

Encounter: Von Jallach Crypt

A faint rustling, besides the sound of Karan coming up behind him, disturbs his thoughts. A small needle of blackness detaches itself from an alcove and darts along the floor. A tiny sound, almost like a bark comes from the creature, and suddenly masses of these small creatures pour from the alcoves, swarming together into two distinct groups. They move constantly, and appear to be all mouths.

The first group darts over towards Adis, knocks him flat and rips tiny little pieces from his flesh until he stops moving. Seeing no more fight in Adis, the second group knocks Karan over, and tears at her flesh until blood is running freely from her wounds.

Spoiler: Initiative (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Misc (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 24, 2010, 07:11
"Oh for the love of Pelor..." Norian moves up beside Graven, and then heals Adis, before starting The Holy Storm. The bolt seems a little off.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 24, 2010, 07:34
Karan stood up as hastily as she could. She was covered in her black blood head to toe, but it did not seem to impair her. More like on the contrary. She drew her weapon, and with a loud, high pitched shriek, and tried to hit the swarm that wounded her. Swing, no matter how powerful, was easily evaded by the small creatures. However, undaunted, she quickly regained balance and struck again, with much more luck than before.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 07:45
Norian heals Adis, and misses with his lance.

The Needlefang Drake Swarms, seeing Karan move to stand up, both bite at her while she's in the process of moving. Her attack that hits doesn't do quite as much as she'd hope, as they're more than one creature, but the creatures that survive her onslaught are visibly bloodied.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 24, 2010, 08:15
- "Situation analysis: Type F combat encounter. Codename: 'We're fucked'" - Graven moved on to assist Karan. Wind howled and ice started to cover nearby walls as he first let loose a wide swing followed by another attack at nearby swarm.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 24, 2010, 09:40
Adis' memory of the last few moments was a little blurry. There was a bright light, some runes and this curious stinging sensation on his side. With all the shouting going about, all he really wanted was some sleep. However a warm light bathed him and his mind cleared a little. Looking to his left he saw the swarm of mouths that had tried to eat him. Jumping up with a start, he spouted an incantation on reflex. Waves of electricity flowed out from the ground, flinging the creature through the runes.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 18:17
Graven's charge lightly damages the mass of creatures, but his resounding area of cold freezes the crap out of the drakes. The remaining creatures are tiny little icicles. They don't move anymore.

Graven hears a loud grunt beside him when he issues out his cold aura as well! A medium sized creature suddenly pulls itself away from the wall and prepares a small pick, and glares at the Warforged.

The remaining Drake nibbles at Adis as he moves to stand up, letting his blood flow once more. Adis' attack shatters the icicled Drakes, and the Gnome cries out in pain as it slides backwards. It quickly switches to its crossbow and fires a bolt at Graven, missing badly.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Initiative (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 24, 2010, 23:25
A wide grin breaks onto Rah's face. Things were getting dangerous!

He hops on all fours and bounds up the stairs snarling!

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 24, 2010, 23:34
Rah punches at the air. Go Rah!

The Drakes pull Adis down once more, biting him for all they are worth once more. Thankfully he's still concious this time.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 26, 2010, 18:29
Norian facepalms. "It just keeps getting better and better..." He moves up, shoots a LoF at the gnome, and heals Adis. Again.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 03:11
Norian's faith makes up for earlier lack of direction by smacking the life out of the Gnome. Adis suddenly looks a lot better, as well.

Sadly, as Karan starts to stir, the Needlefangs set into her body, and she quickly stops moving.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 27, 2010, 03:22
Graven moves near the other swarm and slams the ground causing spikes to stab the drakes.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 03:48
Graven takes actions, and steps through the floor runes which flare brightly and shock his feet. At the end of his turn, though, the chamber lies silent, and he hops quickly from the runes. They surge to life as he escapes their grasp, and dwindle.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 27, 2010, 04:07
Norian goes to Karan's side, and starts the little ritual he's supposed to do before he attempts first aid, you know, praying for recovery, all that. He then starts treating Karan's wounds and various other injuries. He finds it surprisingly easy for such grievious harm done to the barbarian's body.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 27, 2010, 04:11
While cleric is taking care of Karan, Graven decides to inspect the room closely

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 27, 2010, 04:22
'Adieu? You...' few indistinct words slipped from Karan mouth, as Norian bandaged her many wounds. 'Ah... that's you, cleric' she muttered slightly louder seconds later. 'Thank you.'

Not without struggle, she managed to stood up, only to fall down heavily on the floor again.

'Sorry, band, I hate to ask for it, but I... I am not quite in the shape to continue fighting now' she said aloud, with a good trave of embarrassment in her voice. Interestingly, she was shivering, as in fever. 'Can we take a rest, or something? I need to catch my breath.'

She blinked a few times.

'Also, I am afraid that I'm seeing things right now...'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 04:44
Graven's searches reveal a small iron key on the Gnome's body. The alcolves have nothing of note, besides the debris the Needlefang drakes apparently used for nests.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 27, 2010, 04:58
Norian picks up Karan and hangs her around his shoulder. "Karan, I know you need to rest, but not here. This is probably the worst place to do it. Graven! if you found anything, grab it and lets move. The only place to rest around here is outside, so we'll need to be careful."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 05:19
Your party, somewhat broken and battered, heads outside. Around sixty feet north from the entrance to the catacombs, there's a sheltered cave with a good line of sight on the entrance.

Graven takes up watch, since he doesn't have to sleep technically. Six hours and a bit of food later, you're ready to set out again.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Graven reports no activity out of the door during your rest, and without any further adieu, you head back down the staircase. The bodies of the goblins are missing from the first room, but no one is there to greet you.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 27, 2010, 06:20
The night did great job on refreshing Karan. The tiefling appeared to be in good condition, armor and clothing disguising bandages wrapped all around her body. She was acting her yesterday failures never happened.

'So, what now?' she asked, taking a sip of spiced wine from her canteen. 'We are taking the same route as we... as Adis took yesterday, right?'

'Also, may I suggest that we finally decide who in this band is the leader, the captain? For now, we spend more time discussing than fighting, and it is never healthy. And, while at it, deciding on how the loot is shared would not be that bad, I must admit.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 27, 2010, 06:23
- "I guess setting up some basics isn't a bad idea. But in the meantime I'd like to warn you that my scanning of the area indicates that bodies of goblins we killed were taken through the door Norian tried to open before."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 27, 2010, 06:51
Rah furrows his oversized brow.
"Nori lead! He good talky; complement Rah smashy. Peelor pals!"
Rah gives Norian a brofist.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 27, 2010, 09:42
"Nng" Adis groaned. He was still sore from his solo sojourn into danger yesterday; However, he perked up at the sound of discussion. "I say we let the voices tell us what to do. They haven't led me wrong before."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 27, 2010, 09:46
'Sorry mage' replied Karan with a brief chuckle. 'After the stunt you pulled yesterday, I would not entrust even my shoelaces to you. Truth be told, only Norian and Graven are fit for a leaders.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 27, 2010, 09:50
"Bah, if you four would have come to a consensus, I would not have gotten bored and wandered off. The way I see it, the whole thing was entirely your fault."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 27, 2010, 09:55
Without a word, Karan curled her fist, and taking a short swing hit Adis in the face.

'Sorry for that' she turning towards the rest of the party. 'I just don't like being offended or blamed by people I've risked my life and almost died to save from consequences of their own stupidity.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 27, 2010, 10:08
"And how is that my fault?! If I recall correctly you dropped almost as soon as you arrived. You did not 'almost die' for my sake, you almost died from your own stupidity. It is the same in my case as well. All I'm saying is that your inability to come to swiftly to a decision left me bored and  by your I mean all of you. So I made a decision to explore. Simple as that. But if punching a frail wizard is how you like to release your self-loathing frustrations, very well."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 27, 2010, 10:12
'Adis, your arrogance has already been answered, there is no need to drag this argument any further. If you believe that you are flawless and always right, then this is only your problem.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 27, 2010, 10:17
"How is this arrogance? I already said it was my fault I was injured. Maybe you should look at your own attitude, setting yourself up as some sort would be martyr, wounding yourself in the name of others. You seem to be the one who cannot control their ego." Adis retorted. "Arrogance my ass" he added with a mumble.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 27, 2010, 11:21
"Um, we're not doing this you two. You both fell yesterday. Fact. The circumstances were different. Fact. Now, get over it and lets keep moving." Norian was not having any conflict. Still a little sore over the wole being rejected thing, what also wasn't brought up was that when they went down, who brought them back? Norian. Adis Twice, and he bandaged up Karan, and he wasn't complaining, so Why should they?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 27, 2010, 16:30
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 28, 2010, 04:33
- "This is going nowhere." - Graven commented - "I say we go now through the door Norian wanted to check out so badly last time and see who took the bodies. And I'll drag you all there if I have to. If someone wants to pick up that 'leadership voting' thing I suggest we do it during next rest and not standing on hostile ground"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 28, 2010, 04:41
Rah looks visibly agitated.
"You lot talk much, say little!"

Rah nods at Graven's comment.
"They know we here now. If we not go soon, they hide all the shinies, leave nothing. Rah go clomp skulls now."

Rah goes back towards the door Graven mentioned.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 28, 2010, 05:27
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Following Rah, you open the door. The hallway is just the same, and after a quick check for anything out of the ordinary you head around the corner.

Unsurprisingly, you are greeted by Goblins! A loud grunt from the better armored Goblin brings the rest to attention, and they jump into a loose formation. It appears they were waiting for you.

A quick look around the room reveals a fissure in the ceiling that carries the smoke away from the brazier in the corner, which appears to be the only light source. There are sacks and bedrolls around the edges of the room, and even a roasting spit next to the brazier.

The more armored Goblin takes a step forward, swinging his flail at Graven. Seeing it miss badly, he shifts back towards his comrades, letting them take up positions.

Crying loudly they surge forward, longswords in hand. The first two attacks are easily dodged, but the latter two find their target in Rah.

Spoiler: Initiative (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Info (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Report (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 28, 2010, 09:10
Rah howls, then rises into the air spinning; flailing his limbs about.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 28, 2010, 15:43
Rah's blows find their target in the second Goblin he attacks, smashing it into a little bleeding pulp.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on July 30, 2010, 16:29
Norian just sighs and shoots a lance of Faith. it misses pretty bad. "This is a good omen."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on July 30, 2010, 16:50
Slipping behind Graven and Karan, Adis set himself up to blast several of the goblins. Unleashing a wave of electricity into his opponents, he sent two of them flying away.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on July 31, 2010, 03:56
Graven shifted between two nearby goblins and slammed his foot into floor causing jagged rock spikes to shoot from below.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on July 31, 2010, 04:23
Noticing the hobgoblin grunts being decimated, Karan took a few steps towards the centre of the room, to give her space to charge on the biggest goblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on July 31, 2010, 04:40
Norian, despite being one of the best slayers on the team, misses with his Lance. After Adis' attack, another Goblin lies twitching, while the more heavily armored one is much further back. Graven's attacks also take down a Hobgoblin.

Karan, in moving away, provokes an attack of opportunity, which connects. Regardless, she charges the Soldier and connects, but his armor absorbs the blow.

Moments later, the northern door opens, revealing a dark passageway and two goblins with crossbows. They don't look happy (or surprised) to see you.

The Soldier's flail hits Karan's side at nearly the same moment that two crossbow bolts lodge into her armor. One of them bites into her flesh, the head of the other breaks off in her armor.

The last Grunt standing bellows loudly and launches an attack at Graven, finding his mark with his longsword.

Spoiler: Initiative (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on July 31, 2010, 05:52
Rah beelines towards the newcomers.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 01, 2010, 00:47
Rah's blows stun, batter, bruise, and otherwise maim the Sharpshooter until it's a bloody paste on the floor.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 03, 2010, 01:52
Norian shoots a lance at a goblin next to Graven It looks like it is going to hit.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 03, 2010, 12:25
Once more circumventing the main conflict, Adis ran to the enemies side and blasted them with a wave of thunder.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 05, 2010, 05:09
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Norian gets back in the swing of things by lancing another Goblin to death.

Adis slips next to Karan, blasting the goblins back into the corner.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 05, 2010, 06:22
Graven moved up to both opponents and swung his maul at the archer, smashing the goblin into the wall.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 05, 2010, 06:28
Karan quickly moves next to Graven, and swings at the last remaining foe.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 05, 2010, 06:41
Both attacks land, and there's a goblin sided bloodsmear on the wall.

The soldier, enraged at the death of its comrade, and seeing its own death in your eyes, takes on last swing, soundly striking Graven.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on August 05, 2010, 07:07
Rah flicks some entrails off his loincloth and whirls in towards the remaining two goblins.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 07, 2010, 06:07
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 10, 2010, 09:58
Aden moves forward, and attempts to finish off the goblin with a LoF.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 11, 2010, 03:37
Holding the orb in one hand and with a flick of his other, Adis conjured a cloud of daggers on the overwhelmed goblin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 11, 2010, 04:24
Graven takes another swing but misses badly.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 11, 2010, 04:28
'Why... you... little' sneered Karan, missing her swing.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 15, 2010, 04:23
The Goblin snarls, flail swinging towards Graven and missing by a wide margin.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on August 15, 2010, 06:59
Rah looks around at the various corpses littering the floor.
"You think he'd maybe run away at this point"
Rah throws a punch.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 15, 2010, 16:31
The Goblin coughs and sputters blood from an obviously pierced lung, but still stands defiant to your advance.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 21, 2010, 15:24
"He just isn't going down..." Norian hurls another LoF at the goblin. "You WILL FALL!"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 23, 2010, 04:46
The hobgoblin appears surprised for a moment...and falls, blood flowing from his mouth.

No further sounds or enemies present themselves. The door to the North slipped closed behind the Goblins, and what lies behind it is still a mystery.

The Goblins have nothing of note on their bodies, and there's no further indication of where the blood smear that lead you into this room goes. Maybe they ate their own?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 23, 2010, 05:06
Lacking anything better to do, Adis slowly moves towards the door to the north.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 23, 2010, 05:31
Karan propped herself against the wall, catching a breath.

'Which way now, fearless leader?' she asked, looking at Graven.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 23, 2010, 06:04
"Adis, pleas wait. Our friends need to rest." Norian sits down and ponders which way to go.
"I think we should continue on, but I want everyones input on this, and besides, if someones going to open the door and peek through, it probably should be Graven."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 23, 2010, 15:26
Adis, disheartened, backs away from the door. Sitting with his back to the wall, he starts mumbling. His dreams have taken a strange turn and have even started to blur into his conscious moments.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 24, 2010, 15:43
Graven thinks for a moment.

- "How about we go and check if anything changed in the room we fought in yesterday. If no, then we'll come back here, and continue through these doors, since goblins here seem more active than whatever might lie on the other side. If not then we'll consider the options then."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 24, 2010, 18:45
"That's a great idea. As soon as we're ready, we'll head over."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 25, 2010, 03:22
You cautiously walked down the hallway towards the entrance, and make your way back to the room where the Drakes ambushed you. The blue glow continues to light the room until Adis casts some Light on the situation.

Nothing seems to have moved, and the corpse of the Gnome is smelling rather more foul than it did before. There aren't even any marks from scavengers eating at the corpse, which seems a bit odd. Seeing him does remind Graven of the small iron key he got from the corpse just before your hasty retreat.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 26, 2010, 04:35
"Odd, why were the other corpses moved and this one left to rot?" Adis murmured to himself. Patrolling the perimeter of the room, Adis checked the alcoves for any signs of the Drakes they encountered.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 26, 2010, 04:38
Adis finds absolutely nothing new. Nothing has been touched since you last left the room.

As a reminder, since Adis has a poor memory, you found a bunch of bones and a heap of tattered rags and not much else in the alcoves. They looked like they would be used to hold bodies, but they are unoccupied.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 26, 2010, 04:49
Noting nothing new, Adis goes to inspect the debris pile. If there are eggs in there, it could mean trouble... or profit.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 26, 2010, 05:15
- "No activity here. We might as well go back and continue down the corridor where goblins were."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 26, 2010, 05:20
"Huh? Since we're here. Wouldn't it make sense to check this door first?" Adis asked, indicating the door on the right side of the room.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 26, 2010, 07:22
'Warf... Graven is right. I would believe that it is doubtful that any hostages are kept by drakes or little pesky gnomes, right?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on August 29, 2010, 01:15
"I'm for going back into the goblins room, and then going through that door, but that's just me." Norian said while looking around.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 29, 2010, 04:25
Having come to a majority, your group wanders back down the stairs, out the door, across the room, through the door, take a right and up the hall to the room you were just in. The blood one the corpses appears to have dried slightly since you've left, but otherwise nothing has changed.

Decisions and doors stand before you, the choices being: North from which the Goblins with the crossbows emerged, or West and to the unknown?
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 30, 2010, 05:21
Karan, seeing the indecisiveness of the party, dropped her sword on the ground, and taking yet another sip from her waterskin, reached for something among her things. It turned out to be simple set of pipes, looking like it was older than the tiefling herself.

'Forgive me, people...' she murmured with a smile, starting to play some simple, jolly melody- definitely not a masterpiece, but at least it could be listened to without pain 'but I have kill time somehow... while you decide.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on August 30, 2010, 05:52
Adis sat with his back along the northern wall. "Graven, it was previously suggested that you be the one to open doors from now on so would you do the honors and take a peek?" he said after a moment of silence.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on August 30, 2010, 07:57
- "I only suggested that we don't open all doors at once and touch everything that stands out to see what it does wizard..." - if construct's face could show emotions, it would have shown iritation as he walked up to northern door and opened it.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on August 30, 2010, 15:54
Beyond the door was a blackness the brazier in the room of dead goblins couldn't pierce. After a momentary pause for Adis to lighten the view, you're treated to a view of a bleak, long hallway. The walls are slightly smoothed, but the main feature is a jagged hole ten feet from the door. Someone did a little remodling it looks like.

After a moment, you notice something moving above the hole: two ropes dangle above it, connected to the ceiling. They seem newer than the rest of the hallway, and you feel certain that the goblins put these in place. Hopefully they knew what they were doing.

At the edge of Adis' light you notice the hallway has an opening to the left.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on August 31, 2010, 16:25
'Well...'

Karan took a running start and jumped across the pit, landing heavily and gracelessly on the other side.

'...you live only once.'

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on September 01, 2010, 05:17
Karan successfully clears the pit. Nothing reaches out of the darkness beyond the Light spell to attack her either, so it appears to be somewhat safe.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on September 01, 2010, 12:57
  Not one to be out left behind, Adis quickly picked up his robes and prepared to jump.
  "Wheee" he cried out in a low monotone voice. Almost mocking his own feeble attempt at jumping.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 01, 2010, 13:53
Graven shook his head, backed a bit then ran and jumped through the gap, landing with a solid *thump* on the other side.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on September 01, 2010, 15:53
Norian is next. He gets a running start and leaps across the pit, managing to land with some amount of grace. "Well, that wasn't too bad." He says, dusting himself off.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: fwoop on September 07, 2010, 03:43
Rah awakes from his momentary nap with an abrupt yelp.
"Ooh sorry! Rah get sleepy sometimes!"
Rah looks at the pit. Then casually leaps over it.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on September 12, 2010, 16:20
With all five of you on one side of the pit, Adis moves his light a bit further up the corridor. Realizing that it won't reach far enough, he lights a makeshift torch with one of his sticks. You're greeted to a doorway not far to your left. It looks as ordinary in a crypt as any of the rest of the doors. Further down the hallway another section of the flooring has collapsed. Ropes are in place over this one as well. The hallway turns sharply to the right at the end of your light.

There is still a dull silence besides the crackling of the torch. The light flashing off the flagstones is somewhat reassuring in these musty catacombs.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on September 22, 2010, 02:24
"Hah. That was fun. Well now. Door or should we attempt to cross another pit? I vote door, just to see what's inside."
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: UltimateChaos on September 25, 2010, 20:05
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 26, 2010, 09:06
'I knew rocks more decisive than you are, people' uttered Karan suddenly, rising from the ground. She approached the door to the crypt, and forced them open.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on September 26, 2010, 09:22
The room that Karan views is providing light of it's own, though it takes her a moment to figure out what it's coming from. A bright yet faint shimmer in the air at first, upon taking a step into the room a picture resolves itself in the air in front of you. Had you entered from another direction you might have thought it simply a mural on the wall, but this picture is quite clearing standing about five feet from the wall, and generating light. It seems invisible from the rear, as well.

A quick glance at the picture it displays reveals a sinister looking castle in the middle of a swamp. The light from this glowing picture doesn't quite reach the end of the passage to the south.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 26, 2010, 09:26
'Safe here!' shouted Karan to her team, before walking further west, through the corridor.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on September 26, 2010, 10:08
Karan's westward trek continues past the floating picture, and to the door. Opening it, she is confronted by a black hallway. She can barely make out that it turns sharply right after a few feet.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on September 26, 2010, 10:18
With a slight sigh, Karan reached to one of the pouches on her belt, pulling a sunrod out and lighting it up.

'I am going in!' she shouted to her apathetic team, and strode further down the hallway.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on September 26, 2010, 13:23
"Good for you." Norian was normally nice, but Karan was starting to get on his nerves a bit. He wondered why. It must have been the thing about rocks. The thing was, you never knew what could be thrown at you, so you must be careful.

Of course, with his luck, If he took initiative like Karan did, he would end up face to face with a dragon, and if he survived, he would get a lecture from his party members about rushing headlong into the unknown. Norian just walks silently to where Karan is and falls in behind her. He took solace in the fact that when she, or any one else got severely wounded, he was the go-to guy for combat healing.

He made a mental note to have a talk with her, and try and get her to understand he's trying to be fair, and also get her to calm down.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on September 27, 2010, 06:01
In one fashion or another your group heads after Karan. One or two might want to stop her, the rest just don't want to be seperated in a crypt. Either way, you're all within a few feet of each other as Karan turns the corner to find...yet another corner. Thankfully this one leads into a room.

Your first impressions of this room are a bit marred by the skeletons in the alcoves lining the walls of the room. There's a faint smell of mold in the air, and it's really quite unpleasant, even for a crypt. As you're about to take a closer look around, the door leading to the north opens suddenly!

A few seconds pass, and nothing happens. Then - just as you're about to sheathe your rapidly drawn weapons - the floor in front of the door glows red, and suddenly the stones themselves shoot upwards in a blaze of light! This illusion is quickly shattered when you realize you're facing two magma claws that are very unhappy to be here, and even less happy to see you.

Encounter: Von Urstadt Crypt

One of the Magma Claws makes a sound not unlike rocks being split in two, and hurls itself towards the nearest warm body - Karan - slashing a deep gash into her flesh. The other spits a large chunk of molten lava which lands about her body, holding her fast.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on September 27, 2010, 06:13
- "Hostiles spotted. Initiating defensive actions." - Graven reacted first and immediatly circled and attacked the creature that hurt Karan.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on October 02, 2010, 12:44
"Well well. This wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Except for our good friend starting to bleed, but I can take care of that. Anyways, TO BATTLE!"

Norian does the usual. LoF followed by healing, except that the lance screams towards the Magma claw at a speed faster than usual, when it impacts, a small flash of light bursts out. Norian gets very excited and performs the prayer to heal Karan with relish. It shows as his god smiles upon him and and the healing light is a bit stronger than usual.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 03, 2010, 16:22
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Rah leaps forward to battle, but is caught off guard and misses badly.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 06, 2010, 04:25
Adis reached out his hand in vain to stop Graven from aggravating them more, but was too slow. While you may be able to bribe mama beasts, that chance was most likely lost now. Sticking to the wall, Adis targeted the more distant of the magma beasts. The white beam struck the creature, erupting into a cloud of steam. Whether the attack had any effect could not be determined.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 06, 2010, 07:23
Hissing in pain and surprise alike, as the molten rock clung to her armor- though it must be admitted that pain was somewhat weaker than she would expect, no doubt thanks to her demonic ancestry- Karan took a powerful swing at the creature that has just wounded her. However, the molten rock constrained her more than she expected, and the being proved to be out of reach. She tried to free herself from this binds, but again, failed horribly, only entangling herself further.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 06, 2010, 15:28
The party rushes to battle, with not much out of the ordinary besides Karan looking totally awesome bursting free from hardening magma looking better than she did before she was encased in it.

Full of rage, the Magma Claws press on the attack, focusing on their rocky friend, Graven. A hot claw pierces Graven's armor, but thankfully he is able to dance away from the huge pile of magma the other creature spews at him.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 07, 2010, 07:29
Unfazed by the Magma Claw's attack, Graven makes another good swing at it.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 07, 2010, 09:06
Graven's hit makes the magma creature start to crumble apart. The smile that momentarily breaks out on his face is quickly wiped away by the crossbow bolt that lodges into his side, though. Apparently there were some Gnome Skulks hiding in the shadows!

The second one pops up right next to Adis, but his heavy warpick only manages to deliver a glancing blow.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler: Changes! (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 08, 2010, 02:54
Norian looks almost incredulous. "Gnomes...it just never stops, does it?" Norian sees the Injured Graven, and casts his Healing Word. It seems to be particularly effective. Emboldened, he decides to start working on the Gnome near Aden. Sadly, his throw is a bit off.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)


Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 09, 2010, 13:04
Around the moment the gnomes showed their faces, the halfling Rah was suddenly enveloped by a swirling cloud of darkness. Before he even had a chance to cry out, he was gone, and the cloud instead coalesced into a much taller form in place of the halfling, one gaunt and draped in speckled grey clothes. And

"Vhere now..." the figure began to say, before its attention was drawn to the Magma Claw right in front of him. "Oh. Hello."

Greetings done, the figure darted quickly to the side, some wisp of the shadow-cloud that had brought it here lingering behind and swirling around the Magma Claw. It soon proved to be far from harmless as the figure brought a strangely twisted greatsword to bear on the beast, and with it somehow managed to coax even your own shadows to strike at the Magma Claw.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 09, 2010, 15:17
The appearance of a new entity in their midst sparked a reaction from Adis. Suddenly clutching his right eye, he  fell to his knees, his figure hunched in pain. Adis quickly shuffled away from the Gnome; However the Gnome did not follow. Instead he seemed to be crying out in a pain of its own,swatting the air at some invisible foe. Slowly Adis stabilized himself against the wall, his body drenched in sweat.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 09, 2010, 15:27
The sudden and rather unexpected appearance of a gith and equally weird disappearance of the smelly halfing did not bother Karan much- for now at least. She was completely concentrated at combat. Seeing the shadow-stricken magma claw crumble to ashes, she did not waste a second, but charged at the second one, slashing in a wide arc.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 10, 2010, 02:47
The remaining Magma Claw roars in anger at the death of its comrade, but fails to land a blow on Karan.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 10, 2010, 03:30
- "You, newcomer - help the wizard!" - Graven didn't waste more time and moved away from smoldering corpse of the dead creature and to assist Karan. As he approached something clicked in warforged's mind and it reached out minds of his opponents making them focus on him. He struck a blow against the magma claw but distortions of air caused by creature's heat made him misjudge the range and miss. Cursing he swiftly struck another blow, this time against the gnome. Even as he did the attacks something in his mind worked, creating layers of invisible protection against the heat and assorted damage.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 10, 2010, 04:14
Graven's quick movements momentarily distract the crossbow weilding gnome, which switches to its warpick. Its attack only bounces off of Graven's armor.

Meanwhile the one closer to Adis is doing the opposite juggling attack, quickly pulling out an already loaded crossbow to land a bolt in Adis' side. Too bad Norian's out of Healing Word's, since Adis isn't looking too hot out there.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 10, 2010, 10:48
"Wha-Where...but...He...Rah...Oh forget it. To be honest, I was expecting SOMETHING to happen...but I thought it would be a while longer, and wouldn't involve someone disappearing. No time for any mourning though, I need to help Adis out, and fast!"

Norian fires off a Lance of Faith at the Gnome Skulk. It goes wide and bounces off a wall and then disappears.

"Pelor has decided to punish me...Oh, and, Hail and well met Mysterious person! I am Norian Uthadar, Cleric of Pelor. What, pray tell, is your name?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 10, 2010, 13:00
The stranger took a moment now to survey the surroundings and take stock of the situation. At Norian's words he tipped his head. "I am pleased to know that. This is, however, a poor time for introductions," he replied.

With that, he raised his sword, seemingly gathering surrounding shadows into a coating for the blade, before sending it in a trio of wicked-looking darts with a sweep of the blade. Not wanting to trust his fortune to that alone, he followed close after his own projectiles, summoning up a shadow to envelop the gnome before his own blade struck.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 10, 2010, 15:24
Still reeling from his episode, Adis did his best to regain the rest of his composure. The crossbow bolt sticking out of him did nothing to help the condition. Their new... ally? He seemed to be helping for now, nothing to look down on having dispatched the offending Gnome. Spotting another gnome in the distance, Adis righted himself. Holding his orb aloft he evoked another ray of frost, striking the creature in the chest. "Heh" Adis sighed.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 02:11
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 03:27
Feeling satisfied with the crunching sound the Magma Claw gave, when her blade bit into it, Karan follows with two further swings. First one bounced out of the creature's carapace, and second seemed likely to follow suit.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 14:17
Karan misses. At least she tried her hardest.

On the upside, the cornered and angry Magma Claw misses badly as well. But the flames from its body seem to grow brighter for some reason.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 11, 2010, 14:29
Warforged slipped into the corner between the gnome and the magma claw and swung at the later, but again misjudged the range.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 14:37
The gurgling sounds coming from the gnome Inatai has just slain seem to spook the remaining one. Taking a final swing at Graven, it turns to flee.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 11, 2010, 14:58
"Oh no you don't!" Norian cried out, and ran forward until he was in range, and quickly tossed two Lances of Faith in quick succession. Both are poised to hit, possibly keeping the guiding light alive long enough for two people to receive guidance in hitting the fleeing foe.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 11, 2010, 15:11
"Know that you can hide, but you cannot run..." Inatai said, following after the fleeing gnome. He performed his standard trick, gathering shadows surrounding the gnome into a sort of shroud... but he had another trick up his sleeve. As he held his hand out, the shroud turned into a noose that immediately tightened around the gnome's neck. Pulling his hand back, Inatai seemed to yank on the cord that attached to the noose, pulling the choking gnome back a good few feet before the shadows dispersed.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 11, 2010, 15:24
With the last gnome dead, Adis turned to the remaining Magma claw in the corner. Firing another Ray of Frost, he watched as the bolt harmlessly dissolved into the creature. What?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 15:30
Without a word, Karan brings her sword down yet again on the claw. Something, however, makes her miss- and not in the "bounces off the magma hide" or "creature dodges" way, but ordinarily landing her sword  few inches to the monster side.
'What the..?' she bellows in anger.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 11, 2010, 15:39
Undisturbed by an enemy attacks, the Magma Claw flings itself at Graven, pressing him against the wall. The heat and it's claws aren't doing Graven any favors.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 11, 2010, 15:45
Graven swung another time at the magma claw - and yet again the blow mysteriously failed to reach it's target - "What is it with this beast!?"

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 11, 2010, 16:03
Having assisted the Gith, Norian turns his attention towards the remaining Magma Claw.
He throws his stock weapon at it, and misses pretty badly.

"Hmm...Interesting creature. It's like it has some form of divine protection. But my studies didn't say anything about the god of Magma Claws...at any rate, we must treat this one with caution."

Norian decides to cautiously move closer.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 11, 2010, 16:10
Inatai moved forward boldly, though he too could not land a telling blow on the Magma Claw.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 11, 2010, 16:31
Since no one seemed to be able to reliably hit the creature, Adis knew what he had to do. Moving closer to the Magma Claw he conjured a cloud of daggers around the beast. Even if it dodged some, It would inevitably take damage.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 11, 2010, 16:35
Furiously, Karan swings again- to her own surprise, she manages to hit this wretched thing finally.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 12, 2010, 03:22
Despite the peices of rock now cracking and crumbling away from the Magma Claw, it continues its onslaught against Graven, slashing fierce gashes in his 'flesh'. Also, the light cast by Adis' spell seems to get dimmer for a moment as the flames spouting from its body become even more intense. It almost looks like the creature is growing in size as well.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 12, 2010, 03:28
Karan's blow seemingly broke the curse, as Graven's next blow found it's mark, and warforged seemed to rise a little bit to match the beast despite the wounds.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 12, 2010, 14:48
Norian looks to both sides. His team is injured, and he is out of healing prayers. He decides to use a skill they taught him in training that he thought would be useless. He readies his mace, and Swings it hard at the magma claw. Hopefully it connects, healing one of his team in the process, and even leaving a mark on the magma claw.


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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 12, 2010, 15:10
Inatai struck out at the Magma Claw again, but still without much luck...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 12, 2010, 15:30
Finally it seemed the Magma Claw was taking damage. Completely surrounded, it was only a matter of time before it fell. Spotting an opening between the bodies of his companions, Adis attempted another Ray of Frost on the creature. But it was to no avail, the bolt harmlessly dissipated on the creature.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 12, 2010, 15:43
Karan swings again, hoping to finally bring the cursed creature down, and hits again.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 12, 2010, 18:55
As the creature gets more and more damaged by your attacks, it seems to glow even brighter. Blow after blow connects, and finally you're treated to it's death. Sadly, it's not conventional.

The rocks holding the creature together crumble and fall, while the white hot magma connecting them expands. You would expect to hear an enormous explosion or something, but all that comes to your ears is something like a small campfire crackling in the distance. Anyhow, this magma connect floor to ceiling, and expands even further outward. The heat isn't as searing as you expect, but it's still not pretty.

With a bit of an anticlimax, the magma rushes away to the floor and disappears. What's left behind is quite interesting, though. The doors to the north are now fused nearly shut. You might be able to break through if you had to. What's written upon them in glowing red letters is perhaps more interesting though. A flowing, slanted script. You can almost make out what it says...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 12, 2010, 20:43
"Well that was... unnecessarily difficult." Adis was breathing heavily. His eyes constantly ran back to their new companion. Something didn't sit right with him. Taking his mind off the subject, Adis focused on the curious writing on the door. I wonder what this is... he wondered. Cautiously he tried to decipher it, and only after he understood it's meaning... would he poke it.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 12, 2010, 22:59
The language the script is written in is hauntingly familiar, but still decipherable with a few moments of concentration. It's sure not Common, but it appears to say something like "Beware intruders. Our secrets are protected."

Ominous.

Seeing as nothing else has happened since the explosion of magma, it seems safe to take a real look around the room. There are two dead bodies, of course. And some ash where the Magma Claws broke apart. Besides the door, nothing else seems to have changed. Alcoves, check. Strange musky skeletons, check.

Spoiler: Map (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 03:23
- "Well before we continue there is something that needs explaining..." - Graven turned towards the githzerai who appeared moments ago - "Query: Who are you, what are you doing here, and what did you do to the halfling?"

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 04:39
Karan panted for a few moments, gradually easing her breath. To her own very pleasant surprise, she was not even half as spent as she usually was after combat, and, better yet, despite the presence of spilled blood all around her, she was not on the verge of frenzying. Smiling, she propped her sword against the wall, and loosened the laces that held her armor in place. It was certain that discussion which way to go was going to take some time, so she figured that she could as well take some rest.

'I support Warforged in his question...' she said, approaching the newcomer and glancing at him warily. 'What by all Nine Circles of Hell are you? Seriously, I have never seen creature quite like you.'

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 06:18
The Githzerai took a few moments to clean his blade before answering. "So many questions. Know then, that my name is Inatai. I am of the People. You may know of us as the Githzerai," he explained patiently, putting away his weapon. "The fate of the halfling you speak of is not known to me, however. Though I did feel some displacement upon my arrival - it is possible your halfling may have been standing too close and was shunted to the Shadowfell as a result. A regrettable accident. Does that satisfy your curiosity?" he asked, in a calm, level voice.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 06:25
- "You still didn't answer what are you doing here, or rather why did you appear in front of us... displacing the halfling as you called it." - warforged paused for a moment then continued more to himself than to the githzerai - "Which is a another matter. Without the halfling we're one person short in a place we aren't exactly welcome. Not really a good thing."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 06:40
"You have my apologies, then. A regrettable accident, as I have said," the Gith replied with a shrug. "You would know my purpose here? Very well. A group of creatures calling themselves the Red Hand of Doom have grown too strong, and now are upsetting the great balance. Know that I have taken it upon myself to... reduce their power," Inatai explained.

"You've asked your questions, now answer mine. I would know what you do. Who are you, and what do you here?" he asked, his voice growing perhaps slightly colder than before.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 06:46
Graven nodded at the response.
- "I suppose it's only fair to explain ourselves. We are a group of... adventurers for lack of better term who responded to summons from nearby place called Overlook. While on route there we stopped at a tavern in city of Brindol. It so happened to be that the same band of goblinoids you mentioned - or at least a band of goblinoids pretending to that name, since the original one supposedly got vanquished years ago - decided to raid the city. We got involved in repelling some of their forces, and since we were on site the council of Brindol decided to take a gamble and hire us to rescue people that got kidnapped during the raid as well as to recover some important items that were stolen. That about sums it up."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 06:53
'That pretty much sums it up' added Karan, eyeing the assassin with more curiosity that mistrust. 'Well, I am Karan' she introduce herself, before continuing with a barrage of questions. 'Githrazei... well, now I remember... we had someone similar to you in Adieu's mercenary band' she paused, trying to remember something. 'But he called himself by a bit different name... he said he is of "Githyanki" people or something along those lines. I assume that it is just a different name for your kind?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 07:04
Inatai tensed up, as though the statement stuck a nerve. He turned all the way to look at Karan with a cold glare. "It is not. They are anathema to all the People stand for. Know this well and do not mention the traitor's breed again," he said, his voice a hiss, quite different from the level tone of earlier.

He regained his composure quickly enough, however, and turned back to Graven. "It would seem your actions, while not directly aimed at weakening the Red Hand of Doom, will achieve that goal all the same. If I may, it would serve both our ends if I accompanied you for a time."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 07:11
- "As far as I'm concerned it might indeed be a good idea" - Graven replied after a bit of a pause - "If what you speak is true it indeed might be beneficial for all of us. But... know I am going to keep my eye on you. While you did help us in the fight here, and you say you're after similar goals, I'm not the one to judge just by that. Time and your actions will tell."

Graven turned to Karan - "In the meantime - Karan, how about we see if we can open that door?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 07:13
'Sure. So, we just bash it open, right?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 07:15
- "Bash, push or pull - whichever works. You seem to be a bit stronger, so I'll try assisting

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 07:19
'As you wish' murmured Karan, grabbing her blade and smashing it with full force onto the stone door.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 07:24
Opening a sword with a fullblade isn't how it's normally done. But it appeared to do the job. There was a minor collapse in the ceiling, but the rubble that fell quickly spread out. You would still be able to make it through the opening into the corridor beyond, but the taller members of the party would need to stoop, and it would be careful going.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 07:25
Karan drew a deep breath, and sheathed her weapon.

'Was not as sturdy as I thought it would be. Let's go.'

Thanks to her small frame, she squeezed past the rubble without any trouble.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 07:43
The corridor ended in a sharp left, and some marbled step leading downwards. They were badly worn, and your group waited for Adis to come up and shed some light on the situation. The room beyond was spare, and very utilitarian. To be exact, it was a jail or sorts.

A cautious advance down the stairs reveals a definite lack of anything in the room besides some crumpled skeletons. Once you reach the landing though, a voice reaches your ears.

"Ah, at last. Some friendly faces. Or at least a change of scenery if you're working for these goblins."

The voice is coming from the jail cell on the right, which contains a few skeletons and a well built - if somewhat aged - man. His face is bruised in many places, but his posture is still good. A quick glance at his clothes and build indicates that he's from the local area at the least. He looks at your band questioningly, perhaps to see your intentions.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 07:46
- "Before we answer your question, can you tell us who are you?" - Graven asked.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 07:50
The man's brow creases and his eyes narrow. "Well, you're not with the goblins, that's for sure. They heard Mirtala call me by name. I see. Well, I don't really have many options, being stuck in a cage. My friends call me Sertanian. I hope that I could call you friends."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 07:56
Warforged nodded his head - "Well you can call us 'rescue party' for now. We'll get you out of there as soon as we find some sort of a key." - Graven started to look around to see if there was one lying around in the room - "Do you know anything about the others? We were told there are more people that got captured."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 07:59
'Sertanin... well, then, if it is really you, then you and we are really lucky' states Karan, smiling faintly. 'Warforged, he was the man he were sent to save for the museum... Castellan of the Hall as far as I remember.'

Not speaking anything more, Karan inspects the cell door closely.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 08:03
Sertanian nods solemnly. "I had hoped they would send someone. And it would have to be a Warforged at that. But how they found one...ah well. I should be thanking you. If it helps, there is a key. A gnome locked me in here. As for the others, I've seen Mirtala and Kartenix. I'm worried about him, though."

"Would it be too much to ask to get out of this cell before you continue your questions? I know I have information you need, but I could really do with a bit of breathing room."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 08:13
- "I remember then name Karan." - Graven replied - "A key and a gnome you say? Well I found one on a gnome few rooms ago, and if that one doesn't fit perhaps gnomes we killed just outside of this place have another. I think that with all the commotion due to new appearance we forgot to check them."

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 08:32
Graven pulled the small iron key that he recovered, but it clearly was too small for the cell doors. Leaving the sunrod behind to keep Sertanian out of the dark at least, your group make their way back to search the bodies of the gnomes. It took less than a minute to find the key attached to a chain on the gnome closest to the door, but stooping down to check their corpses did have another nice side effect.

A glint in an alcove caught Inatai's eye as he turned over the body of the first gnome to die in the earlier fight. Deep within one of the recesses of the alcove appeared to be a large piece of metal...

A quick examination reveals that this corpse was buried with an extremely sharp fullblade with a small white gem set in the hilt. Scanning the other alcoves reveals that the gnomes must have stashed some potions with a parcel of gold left behind with the departed.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 08:40
- "I think we should split gold evenly. As for the healing potions - anyone lacking one of these? Or is everybody supplied?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 08:40
Karan grabbed the newly found blade and weighted it in her hands. It was a bit shorter and wider than her current weapon, and a bit more ornamental.

'If you don't mind...' she whispered, sitting down on a piece of a rubble, with the blade placed over her knees.

She touched the pommel of it, trying to determine the nature of the magic that ran through it- or at least tell, if it was sharper than her sword.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 08:44
While the weapon rested in Karan's hands, she felt a desire to right wrongs...in a violent fashion. Shortly, she knew exactly what she was holding.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 13, 2010, 09:03
Karan frowned for a second, before finally unsheathing her weapon and giving it a long look. The blade was cracked in many places, was reforged at least once. She used it since it was given to her by Kin, one of the Adieu's lieutenants a good few years ago, and frankly, she did not realize until now how attached she felt to it. But, she was not *that* sentimental. Sighing, she put it down in of the alcoves.

'I hope you don't mind, newcomer' she stated, turning towards Intai and putting the newly acquired weapon in the scabbard. To her own surprise, it fitted. 'You can have it, if you really need it.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 09:03
While Karan sat down examining the sword, Graven went back to the nearby room to check if the new key found was the right one.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 09:11
Sertanian seemed anxious to see you, almost as if he thought he was hallucinating when he saw you earlier. The key that Graven now held made a satisfying click in the door to the makeshift cell. With a bit of a creak, and a large groan, the door swung outward and freed the Castellan.

"You have my thanks, Warforged. I apologize, but I haven't brought any rations, and they haven't been feeding us too well. I could do with a bite of food to eat, and perhaps a touch of water to my lips. But first, can we go join your friends? I'd rather be away from this room. I've spent too much time in it already. And while we walk, you could tell me your name."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 13, 2010, 09:17
- "You can call me Graven. And I think there are some rations in my kit - I have no need for them, but it appears they got packed by default." - warforged replied - "We'll need you to reply a few more questions I'm afraid - some commemorative items got stolen, and your associate at the hall wasn't able to tell us what they were. Also if you have any idea where to search for other people that got captured it would help us as well."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 13, 2010, 14:12
Norian had been deep in prayer, hearing everything Inatai said, but not saying anything to anyone else. He had been praying to give himself strength, and the power to heal.

Completing this, he heads to the cell room where Graven is. He sees Sertanian, and looks at him "Wow, you look pretty beat up. is there any outstanding wounds you need treated, or will you be alright? By the way, My name is Norian. Norian Uthadar, Cleric of Pelor."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 13, 2010, 15:10
"Ill take one of those potions if no one minds."
Adis heaved himself up of the floor. His body was more stable now after a short rest. His eyes slowly drifted back to Inatai. Might as well get this over with.
"Hello, I don't think I've introduced myself yet. I'm Antipodeus, but everyone calls me Adis. So I see you're one of the Gith. How are the planes these days?" He started to ramble of a series of questions that became less and less coherent by the second.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 15:25
"They are in balance still, despite the best efforts of certain parties," Inatai replied with a light bow of his head.

"I will take the second potion, then, as there seem to be no other claimants to it," he said, picking the bottle up and stowing it somewhere on his person.

He also took the coin pouch - to split the contents later, of course. But someone has to carry it until then. And with the rest of the loot divided up, he headed off to rejoin the others.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 17:42
Sertanian takes a seat on the rubble just about where the Magma Claw did its firework show. He eats and drinks in silence, watching you in a way that implies he might have had some training in understanding people. After a few minutes of recovery he speaks briefly to you all, but mainly to the Warforged.

"Well, let's get down to business, shall we? Of course Javil would be unable to tell you a thing about any of the museum pieces. He rarely looked at them, or cared about them. Don't get me wrong, he's a good man most of the time, but doesn't care for history at all. I'm not sure exactly what they took, but I saw them wielding the shields of the Red Hand on the march back. I assume they would have taken everything, though. Shields, helm, sword, gauntlets - I suppose if they were being thorough they would even take the battle standard, but I don't think they're that smart."

"And thank you cleric, but it was just a few hard days, nothing more. There are others who need your skills. Like Mirtala. She and I were kept together for a time, in a room that...well, it could be near or far. I couldn't quite tell when they moved us. It's near a spiral staircase, and we had to walk up it to get here. They kept us in a room with frescoes on the walls. And rats. It was quite unpleasant. They finally moved me away, saying that Mirtala would make a better meal than I. I'm not sure if it was an idle threat."

"I'm more worried about Kartenix, though. They brough him here shortly to stay in the cells. He told me he was going to try and overpower the ettercap guarding him by pretending to be asleep when they moved him back. I couldn't persuade him against it, and I haven't seen or heard from him since."

"And that about sums up what I know of the place." From the tone of his voice, it was almost as if he was conducting a tour of the Hall of Valor.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 13, 2010, 18:07
"Hmm. This is troubling indeed. We need to find Mirtala and Kartenix. I can only help the living, not the dead." Norian said with a worried expression on his face. "How long ago were you moved away from Mirtala? and how long has Kirtenix been gone? Oh, and what are we going to do with you?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 13, 2010, 18:26
"It might be assumed, since you do not have access to the same methods of travel as I do, that you came here through a doorway?" Inatai spoke up, looking at the rest of the party. "It might then be further assumed that you killed anything that might oppose you along the path from here to the door? Leaving a safe path out?"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 13, 2010, 19:33
"Time is pretty relative when you can't see the stars, but I've slept twice since I've seen Kartenix, and three or four times since they held me with Mirtala. I'd say a little over a day, and more than two. As for me, I may be old, but I'm not as helpless as you might think. That blade she's discarding over there might be a bit large, but I've wielded larger in my lifetime. Using that I could defend myself well enough, and you'll need me to point out these relics."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 13, 2010, 20:57
"True enough." Norian turns to where Karan is, and announces  "Karan, if you would give the gentleman your old sword, we need to hurry a bit and go further in, see if we can find someone else." He looked at Inatai "Yes, we've cleared a path. I don't know if it's still clear, but we'll find out when we head outside to camp for the night. Doing it in here has been deemed a little too risky."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 14, 2010, 03:07
- "Well I don't think we can just have him go to the city alone - even assuming there are no goblin marauders outside of the dungeon, he could run into some monsters like we did on the way here. On the other hand if we escort every person back as soon as we find them, the others will have to wait considerably longer." - Graven turned his head to Sertanian - "In the end I guess this depends much on your condition and will. If you're in state to do so, and are willing to risk it, we could push a bit further - with you staying away from the combat of course - to see if we can find one or two more people, and pull out when just before we'd need to rest before venturing further anyway. If not, then we'll escort you back to town right now."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 14, 2010, 03:14
"Well, as much as I would like to slay some goblins myself, I think I'm a bit old for it. But I can certainly hold my own if I need to. Let's go find some more of the townsfolk, shall we?" Sertanian grunted cordially and walked over to Karan. "If you don't mind, I'd like to borrow your old weapon. If you're anything like me, it takes awhile to get used to a new weapon, and you still long for the old one for awhile. I could hold on to it for you in case you decide you'd like to change your mind."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 14, 2010, 03:21
Graven nodded - "Please keep close to Norian, hopefully that should be the safest spot. Well, we have an unexplored corridor here, let's see what's around the corner... literally."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 14, 2010, 04:18
Karan turned to the old man, giving him something that might have passed as a pretty warm smile. She reached to the place where she stashed her old fullblade and passed it to Sertanin, bowing slightly.

'Thank you for your suggestion, I would be forever thankful should you keep it stored for a while... Maybe, one day, I'll be able to enchant it and fight with it once more she spoke. 'But for now, have it. It's a good weapon, should defend you well.'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 14, 2010, 04:28
Walking around the corner, you're greeted to a flight of steps. There's still no light source besides Karan's sunrod and Adis' spell, so you proceed with a bit of caution. At the top of the stairs, things get interesting. The landing you walk out onto appears a bit dirty...sticky in fact. Oh, wait, those are spiderwebs. In front of you, a lump of dirt rises up and presents itself to be an ettercap. With a squint you notice two more. Shouting Sertanian to watch the stairs, you press forward.

Encounter: Spiderweb Landing

The ettercaps could hear and see you coming, so they get a bit of a drop on you. The two closest lurch forward and strike. Karan's armor absorbs a blow, but Graven finds a hefty chuck bitten into him by a greataxe.

You try your best not to look at their faces, as a mass of pincers and feelers seem to twitch angrily at you.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 14, 2010, 14:05
"Ah. Glorious. A nest of traps and trickery," Inatai commented as he drew his sword and stepped forward. "Mind the snares... no telling what else lurks around here," he warned, as he called up the shadows of surrounding creatures to strike out against one of the Ettercaps, though it looks like the blade only sliced some webbing instead...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 15, 2010, 00:48
The Webspinner shoots off a bursting sack of sticky goo, which explodes all over Karan, Inatai, Norian, and one of the Fang Guards. Inatai and Karan gets stuck in the goo, but Norian and the Guard escape its effects.

It scuttles away after firing a websack at Graven, which Graven narrowly evades.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 15, 2010, 04:54
- "Threat assessment - high. - rune on Graven's head flared as he brought down his blade on the head of ettercap before him, and then again as the creature was reeling from the first blow. As his body delivered the punishment, his mind worked in unison with it - using the psionic energies to mend the wound, put down layers of protection and finally grasp the minds of the creatures before him and making them acknowledge the warforged as a threat.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 15, 2010, 05:31
    "Be careful. These Ettercaps are known to keep 'pets' "
  Taking caution to avoid getting caught in any webs, Adis began a new incantation. "Mind the skies, beware what flies. Tear the skin, slice them thin. Trust not your eyes which fail to see, the difference  'tween fiction and reality"
  The Ettercaps' attention began diverting to an unknown assailant, but it did not seem to hinder their focus on the party in any serious way.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 15, 2010, 07:38
Karan knew a far simpler solution to all of her problems. Wrestling her hands free from the web in which they were entangled, she shrieked and struck down with all of her might at the creature in front of her, whipping herself into battle rage. Without a moment of delay, she follows with yet another blow, only slightly lighter than the previous one. 

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 16, 2010, 20:44
Norian tries something a little differnt than his standard starter, and attempts to burn an Ettercap with some Sacred Flame. Sadly, Norian's aim is off, and the creature dodges the light from above. He looks at the web afterwards, and wonders if trying to burn it off would be a good idea. he decides to take a closer look at it
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 17, 2010, 05:25
Graven does some spectacular spider bashing, and you can sure tell the Ettercaps aren't happy about it. Can a spider-man-thing squeal in pain? Hard to tell, but they sure can gurgle up blood!

Karan goes all rage-y to try to top him, but misses the Ettercap with her first attack due to dense webbing.

In retaliation, one of the Ettercaps binds Graven with webbing before sneaking away. The bloodier one attacks with his Greataxe before sneaking away, but Graven's amazing (temporary) fortitude absorbs most of the blow.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 17, 2010, 12:35
"Hm. Bothersome," Inatai remarked as the webs made it difficult to move... or at least to walk. He could still swing his blade, and there were other ways to get around...

The Gith pulled in the surrounding shadows, drawing most heavily on Karan's, enveloping himself in a shroud before disappearing from sight entirely... only to reappear from one of the ettercaps' shadows instead. With a cold smile, he turned to the webspinner, blade in hand as the shadows drew closer still around it.

"Hello. Please wait while I eviscerate you," he said politely before lashing out at the spider-thing, the surrounding shadows adding their weight to the blows.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 17, 2010, 13:23
Unfazed by the quick appearance of...whatever Inatai is, the Ettercap scuttled back onto the webbing before shooting off a net at the main threat - Graven. It then used a rather long spear to poke at Inatai from afar, with deadly results.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 17, 2010, 13:27
- "So that's how he does it? Interesting." - Graven pondered on abilities of their new companion while managing to free his arms again - but not legs.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 17, 2010, 14:41
Again Adis repeated his new whimsical incantation. Focusing his swarm of invisible assailants between the Ettercaps, he was rewarded by the sight of the two front ones fidgeting in vain. However the farthest one was so tangled in webs, it's mind did not perceive the threat.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 19, 2010, 10:39
'I'm going for the big one!' shouted Karan and rushed forward, effortlessly tearing the webs that stood in her way. As soon as she was in range, she swung her sword, only to find out that the blade entangled itself (along with her hand) in the web.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 20, 2010, 02:40
"Hmm...Well, This web is going to get annoying. Only one thing left to do!" Norian pulled out his flint and steel, and struck them untill a spark started and landed on the web, setting it aflame. "Clear off the webbing everyone! I'll try to make it easier to move around!"

Norian moved off the now-burning webbing, and made sure he had a clear shot at the bloodied ettercap. He suddenly felt a huge surge of energy, as if Pelor randomly looked down, and decided to assist one of his acolytes in a somewhat more direct way. Using this energy, Norian felt a boost of confidence and shoted in a clear voice: "This hand of mine is burning red! Burning with power! FEEL THE WRATH OF THE SUN!" All of a sudden, holy light surrounded Norian. He pointed at the unfortunate ettercap and shouted with all his might: "FINGER OF PELOR!" When his holy bolt departed, it was as if the sun were in the room, it was so bright. It collided with the ettercap at an astonishing speed, with a loud bang and a flash.

After he took his shot, without even pausing to see if he killed his target, Norian decided to watch the ceiling in case something was lurking in wait for them. It would be somewhat hard to tell, but he was going to try.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 20, 2010, 04:02
While the party does continue its damage spree against the spider people, Norian starts a small fire. The webs smoulder slightly, but show no sign of spreading quickly. One of the ettercaps falls to your barrage, but it only appears to piss the remaining ones off, as one of them rushes forward with a loud clicking noise. The greataxe seems to leave quick a mark on Graven.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 20, 2010, 07:06
Inatai once more called upon the shadows to transport him elsewhere, appearing behind the web-slinging ettercap and bringing his sword down on it, though it was hard to aim properly with all the webs in the way...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 21, 2010, 04:13
Inatai's blow rattles off the hard carapace of the Ettercap, leaving a small dent but no solid damage. In retaliation, the ettercap slips closer to Inatai, slamming its longspear down into his body. As a parting shot, it throws a quickly spun net of webbing onto Karan.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 21, 2010, 05:29
- "Cleric, I'd much prefer if you'd focus on healing rather than trying to torch all of us." - Graven's swing went wide, but at least he managed to free his legs finally.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 21, 2010, 14:03
  Adis quickly jumped away from the burning webs. "Watch it! Graven is right, I would like to avoid burning to death."
  Turning to the nearest Ettercap, he evoked another ray of Frost. Striking the creature in the arm, it froze several of the nearby webs as well restricting it's movement.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 21, 2010, 14:38
Furiously, Karan burst out of the webs that restrained her.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 23, 2010, 04:08
"Calm down, both of you." Norian replied, going into is explaining tone. "Listen, I'd rather not have to deal with the webs later, so I'm burning them now. If we need to run for whatever reason, having to go through the room as-is would be disasterous. Besides, they annoy me greatly, and I want them out of the way." Norian suddenly notes that his team is in need of healing "Oh Pelor alive! This day just keeps getting better and better." He moves next to Graven and first heals Inatai, then attempts to "repair" Graven as best as he can. He does a good job, and the Warforged looks in good shape.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 23, 2010, 05:20
Having killed one of the ettercaps, the party gets itself into a much better position to strike against those remaining, only to have their best laid plans get slightly turned aside by a massive critical hit from an ettercap greataxe. Graven, recently healed, finds himself in quite a world of pain.

To add insult to injury, the fire that Norian lit seems to have burned through the webs that he set it on, and having gotten started properly it starts to spread to all the surrounding webs. Things appear to be heating up...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on November 23, 2010, 13:46
"One at a time, please," Inatai muttered, looking over his shoulder at the other approaching ettercap. Rather than try to dodge blows from both of them (an art he had not, quite frankly, mastered yet) he chose to withdraw to a safer position. But first things first...

The Gith gathered the surrounding shadows around himself and sent a portion of those to lash out at the webspinner. His own blade followed soon after, but regardless of the blow hitting or not, Inatai soon appeared from the shadows behind Karan, temporarily out of reach for the spider-monsters.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on November 23, 2010, 14:16
The Gith's attack firmly dents the ettercap's armor once more, but again there is no real damage done.

Left with a moment to breath on its own, the Ettercap that's a bit more heavily encrusted in webbing spits up another ball of webbing, which explodes over the entire eastern side of the room. Adis is the only one able to avoid getting stuck in the mire of webs. One of the fires does smoulder out due to the explosion of webs, thankfully.

After scuttling away from the party, the ettercap decides to fix Adis' ability to move with yet another spot of webbing.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on November 23, 2010, 14:19
Graven took out a vial of potion and poured it over his damage. Then, as his body mended, he sighed and tugged at the web holding him, removing it. Finally the construct remained on watch for enemies coming close.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on November 23, 2010, 16:07
With nowhere left to dodge, Adis struggled to remove the webs stuck to his robes. Unfortunately the more he struggled the more he got tangled up.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on November 23, 2010, 16:13
The very moment she freed herself of the webs, the ettercaps spat his weave again. Karan recoiled, but did not manage to dodge, once again becoming restrained by the spider's silk. Only for a brief moment, though. Seconds later, she once again burst out of the webs.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on November 30, 2010, 20:21
Norian fires off a FoP, and then attempts to free himself from the web. He succeeds. He has stayed silent, because he is deep in thought about something, very deep. What that something is will probably be explored later.
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Fixed the url tag :P - Malek
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 01, 2010, 06:11
Most of the party is able to pull their way free from the webs, and Norian even manages to make the ettercap squeal (grunt? hiss? it's hard to tell) in pain as the fire laps along the webs spreading outwards.

Graven's sword slashes down hard against the ettercap that steps near him, but his swing gets tangled in the mass of webs. On the plus side, the ettercap is no more successful at hurting the warforged.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 01, 2010, 10:14
"These webs are becoming bothersome," Inatai remarked as he once more journeyed through the shadows, appearing behind the nearby Ettercap to strike it a blow while the Warforged distracted it.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 01, 2010, 16:46
Inatai's attacks gain tremendous amounts of power due to all the shadows on these creatures, but they still don't manage to find their mark.

The ettercap in the rear makes a small movement and a bulge of webbing slaps against Inatai's face, constricting his movement once more. With what sounds like an angry gurgle, the creature speeds forward and slaps his side against the Gith. It's only as the spidery creature pulls away that you can see the stinger.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 01, 2010, 16:54
Seeing the monster before him is distracted, warforged too a good, solid swing at it, before moving away from between burning webs.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 01, 2010, 21:02
  After a few moments of struggling, Adis managed to get at least his arms free. Focusing on the space between the remaining Ettercaps, he evoked another swarm of invisible attackers to distract them. The Ettercaps however did not seem to be phased by the illusion. With nothing more to do, Adis tried to desperately free himself before the fire reached him, but it was to no avail.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 02, 2010, 15:19
Finally free from bothersome webs, Karan moved through silk to between the ettercaps. Despite raging, she was surprisingly calm and quite, unlike her- doubtlessly, it was due to the fact she was not even scratched yet. Once there, she swung at the already bleeding (thankfully, the smell of burnt webs overwhelmed the dreaded stench of blood that had the unfortunate quality of enraging her) creature. To her own surprise, the weapon did not become entangled in webs again, and struck hard against the creature's carapace, cracking it, finally killing it for good.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on December 08, 2010, 16:09
"And that, Inatai, is why I have set them on fire." Norian commented. He didn't have a fear of spiders or anything like his brother seemed to with zombies, but he too had found the webbing annoying, and in a fit of tactical uncertainty, had decided to burn it. It was a hard decision to make,but he made it, and would stand brave in the face of the fire he had made...so as to not show regret at a possible tactical blunder of which may take down some of his comrades.

Norian sees a etter go down, and knows that the battle is almost over, so he better get on helping with what he can, having expended his healing for now. So he brings a Finger of Pelor down on the last ettercap.Sadly, he missed
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 09, 2010, 02:20
Karan adds another tally to her kill list, and the fires spread a bit further along the webbing.

While struggling in the webbing the form of your new companion drops suddenly to the ground. His body shakes violently from the poison in his veins.

The remaining ettercap cries out at the death of its comrades and lobs a bundle of webbing at Graven, holding him fast (yet again). Rushing forward and away from the burning webbing it plunges its stinger into the Warforged, who appears to resist the creature's poison.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 09, 2010, 03:46
- "And that is why settin things on fire is a bad idea!" - Graven shouted looking at unconscious Itanai and wall of flame coming at him - "Karan, give him some healing potion before he dies!"

Warforged's blow was hindered too much by webs to hit the Ettercap, but at least had enough momentum to tear them apart.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 10, 2010, 15:30
  Fire... fire is not good. With a slight panic Adis did the only logical thing, try to put it out. His body was still restrained leaving him with only one option. Chanting as fast as he could Adis cast a Ray of Frost at the webbing while trying to rip himself out one last time.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 10, 2010, 16:13
'Crap' uttered Karan, seeing Inatai. Quickly, she moved towards him, hoping to find a way to help him. Thankfully, she spotted a potion on his belt before. Without much consideration, she took it and poured it into assassin's mouth, praying that he does not choke on it.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on December 12, 2010, 07:15
"Listen, Adis, I know fire is scary, but sometimes, you just gotta stand in it." Norian said, practicing what he preached. He didn't even attempt to move. He just gave the ettercap another Finger of Pelor, not even blinking. He didn't have time to worry about the fire.
He had to end the battle quick so they could get Inatai away, and maybe take a rest to get him feeling better. Graven wasn't looking so good either. We're cutting it close...aaannd of course I miss. Wonderful.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 12, 2010, 09:10
Inatai picked himself up off the ground, looking a bit worse for wear. Unable to get rid of the webs restricting his movement or shake off the effects of the poison, he resigned himself to staying away from the battle for the time being.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 12, 2010, 09:20
The fire burns through the party and further towards the walls. Funny what a little tinderbox can do...

The remaining Ettercap steps away from Graven, spitting a blob of webbing at him. The warforged has had enough of not being able to move though, and breaks the fragile webbing quickly. Sadly, this movement gives the spidery-thingy an opening for it's longspear to pierce.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 12, 2010, 09:30
- "Just die already!" - warforged shouted, finally managing to get a hit on the ettercap... along with his attention.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 13, 2010, 04:14
  Patting out the fire from his robe Adis reassessed the field. Most of the webs are gone, only one Ettercap left... I need something that wont miss. Taking a deep breath Adis began a new incantation.
  "Blood of winter, fill his soul. Share with him the realm of eternal white..."
  Adis waited for something to happen... nothing did.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 13, 2010, 09:40
The blade in Karan's hands stirred, as if it sensed the damage inflicted upon Graven. As soon as Inatai was healed, the tiefling carefully lunged towards webspinner. It was not a blind charge, however, she was calm enough to resist the urge to avoid such folly.

Slowly, she circled the beast, until she was positioned so that the creature was flanked by Graven. And then, she struck.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on December 14, 2010, 02:58
Norian, despite only being a cleric, managed to not take much damage from the fire. He silently gives thanks to Pelor for his protection, and then focuses his attention on the Ettercap

Seeing Karan narrowly miss, Norian was suddenly worried that they had another Blessed Magma Claw fiasco on their hands, so the top priority was to kill the thing fast as possible. So he wasted no time in firing another Finger of Pelor.

Norian, not being satisfied with that, decided to bring out the thing so exhausting, he could only do it once a day. His friends were in dire straights, so he had almost no choice. Ho positioned himself in between Graven and Inatai, mumbled some prayers, and let out a holy shout of power. It might have not weakened the Ettercap's resolve, but it did heal some of his allies in dire need of health.


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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 14, 2010, 10:29
Inatai did not look too good, the poison still coursing through his veins, but he still had strength enough to summon a volley of shadowy projectiles to pepper the Ettercap with.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 14, 2010, 23:56
It looks quite odd as the bright light shoots towards the ettercap, followed by the shadowy darts pelting into its side. As its carapace cracks and it crumples towards the floor, it freezes as well, shattering all over the once web littered landing.

Freed of the distraction of the ettercaps, Norian is able to stablize Inatai while Karan cuts his bonds. You can tell that he's quite happy to be freed of the webbing. The fires in the far corners of the room smoulder and go out, lacking any more webbing to burn.

Hearing the end of the battle, Sertanian steps onto the landing and helps you check over the corpses for anything useful. His eyes are the first that notice a body webbed to the wall in the south east corner. "Kartenix, you fool..." the Castellan mutters, shaking his head.

The corpse, besides being lightly crispy on the edges, looks like it's been sucked dry. It's hard to tell how long it's been like that, but it doesn't appear that it will decompose any time soon.

"Help me cut him down, please. It's the least we can do." One of you notices a small bundle of webbing that has an odd shape about it while helping free the former resident of Brindol.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 15, 2010, 04:20
Graven stood there motionless for a few minutes and you could see the rune on his forehead glow, and wounds dealt by weapons and fangs of the ettercap fill and mend... slowly. You weren't sure how the way the warforged 'healed' worked, but one thing was certain - the process didn't go as smoothly or swiftly as it did earlier today. Finally he rose his head and spoke

- "That battle was a lot harder than we expected it seems. I can't speak for rest of you but I'm not sure how much more I can handle without longer downtime. And neither I'm sure if we can manage it back to town to get Mr. Sertian there. We might need to consider going outside of the tomb and camping yet again" - you could swear you heard something resembling a sigh and Graven turned to Sertian - "Let me help you with that. Perhaps we can dig him something resembling a grave outside."

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 15, 2010, 06:05
    "I think Ill need a breather too." Adis wheezed. His robes were still smoking from the fire. Sitting down for a brief moment to catch his breath, his hand landed upon something squishy. A tiny gelatinous cube had somehow worked its way into the dungeon, likely to feed off the remains of the Ettercap's own meals. After watching it jiggle from a few pokes, Adis observed it start to digest the Ettercap's corpse. "Hmm, you could be useful my little friend. You're coming with me."
    Quickly grabbing a few stray pieces of unburned webbing, Adis drew a small diagram for the binding ritual of a familiar. Placing the unsuspecting cube in the center and adding small drop of magic the tiny gelatinous cube dissolved and then shortly reconstituted in Adis hand.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 18, 2010, 12:12
Karan kept silence for a few moments after the combat has ended, inspecting her body in growing bewilderment. She realized that she was not wounded! For the first time in her life, she emerged from the fight without even a scratch. It took her a few minutes to finally assure herself of that fact. Only then did she turn towards the rest of the party, with a huge, earnest grin on her face. For the first time since you met her, you heard her giggling silently.

'Yep, I agree with Graven, we really could use a short nap or something' she stated. Of course, she felt exhausted, but not even half as bad as she usually did after the engagements of such scale.

She glanced over the chamber, looking for anything of value the party could have missed before. Suddenly, a silly idea crossed her mind. She put down her new weapon, and approached the warforged, tapping him on his numerous plates of steel.

'Would you mind if I climb you?' she asked, wondering from where did this good humour of her come from. 'I'd like to gather some of the nets from the celling, and I am kinda... too short to do this without help?'
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 18, 2010, 12:16
- "The spiderwebs? What do you need them for?" - the construct asked.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 18, 2010, 12:23
'Clothing and ropes' she explained with a shrug. 'I once had a genasi in my band that used to wear a spider-silk clothing when not in the field, and well, they were really nice... she blinked a bit, like if she was trying to give a second though to what she was saying. 'Such concerns does not fit me a smallest bit, right?' she asked.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 18, 2010, 12:28
Graven paused for a moment then shrugged - "Let me finish cutting down Kartenix's body first"
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 18, 2010, 14:21
Inatai had spent the time so far tending to his wounds and regaining his composure. The poison had taken its toll on him.

"I would also be in favour of a rest, but know that the more time we take, the lesser the chances are of finding further survivors. Assuming you are concerned with such matters, that is," he pointed out. He then picked up the bracers they had found, trying one on for size. "These, I believe, may be useful..."

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 18, 2010, 18:17
When Kartenix's body is freed, it's quite obvious that the ettercaps had a lot of fun with him. There are blackened bite marks in odd shapes all over his body. It's rather gruesome actually.

"I will carry him. Let's at least get his body out of here." Sertanian takes a measure of the webbing and fashions himself a rather handy back sheath for the fullblade he's taken on loan. Not something everyone would know how to do.

Picking up the body of his friend, he faces Graven and nods "Lead the way."

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 19, 2010, 03:11
- "That pit again." - Graven muttered when they back-tracked to the hole they jumped through the last time - "Hold on a second, I might have thought of a better way to get us through this..." - warforged stood there for a moment as if conecntrating then suddenly Karan found herself looking at the party from the other side of the hole - "Yes that should work. It's going to be a bit slow though"

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 19, 2010, 05:16
Though a bit shaken with the mode of transport to get over the pit, your party makes it safely outside. It's rained since you've been inside, but only lightly. Your cave is still dry.

Inatai notices a branch that has fallen from a nearby tree, and props it in front of the cave entrance. The result is that you can see out, and it's quite difficult to see in. Once again Graven takes up watch, while offering some more rations to your guest.

The day burns on into night, and it's nearly dark before you're all feeling rested enough to venture forth again.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 19, 2010, 12:52
- "Well then" - Graven spoke when rest of the party woke up - "No point in wasting time - let's head back in and see if we can find some more people to escort back with Mr. Sertian"

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 19, 2010, 13:33
'Graven is right, no point in wasting time' agreed Karan, yawning slightly. 'I'll take the point.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 19, 2010, 23:53
    "I distinctly remember there being a door in the room off of the the right passage. Can we investigate that? I can have my new pet scout for us."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 20, 2010, 02:25
- "There is that, and there is the central door in the entry room, but we still haven't finished with the left passage - there were doors in the room we fought ettercaps. Well doors and stairs, but I think it's better to stay on this level for the moment."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 20, 2010, 05:46
Entering into the crypts once more, there's not much that has changed while you've been gone. You take a left back into the Goblin's Warren, and try the western doorway out of it. This appears to be another entry into the larger room with the shimmering picture. Entering from this angle gives you a better view of the castle and it's swampy surrounds in the shimmering haze. It looks down on you without comment as Graven ushers you past towards the ettercap room.

The ettercap corpses don't smell any better after several hours left in the damp crypt air. At least these corpses haven't disappeared. Trying the north door, you're faced with a swift right turn. Rounding this corner greets you with a pile of furs and bedrolls covering the floor. Sacks and rucksacks line the walls near them, as well. There's a wrought iron spiral staircase descending into the floor in the north east. Oh, and you're also greeted by the rough barking noise of a drake alerting his hobgoblin companion. Looks like someone was expecting you.

Encounter: Rivenroar Family Crypt

The Hobgoblin bellows and rushes headlong at your group, (very) badly missing an attack against Graven. He should be easy to finish off.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on December 20, 2010, 06:04
The hobgoblin might have been terrible on the offense, but he sure knew how to defend himself, easily blocking both Graven's counter and the blow that followed. Not at all satisfied with his attacks the warforged slipped to the side, making space for others.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on December 20, 2010, 13:06
Inatai advanced in his usual way - teleporting through the shadows from one spot to another, appearing in the spot Graven had recently vacated. His attack, however, fell shamefully short of its intended mark.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on December 21, 2010, 04:00
"May Pelor bless us with victory! Graven, duck!" Norian quickly fired a Finger of Pelor at the Hobgoblin, Hoping to succeed where his comrades had failed so far. Whoever drew first blood would have a psychological edge on the opponent. That is one of the things Aden always told him.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on December 22, 2010, 01:51
The little ball of green scales that is the drake bounds forward to protect its handler, but its teeth bounce off of Graven's armor.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on December 22, 2010, 18:01
  Feeling more comfortable with his shift in spell focus, Adis held his Orb aloft as he chanted. Soon both the Drake and the Hobgoblin were focusing more on swatting the air around them than to the party.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on December 23, 2010, 04:49
Gripping her new fullsword tighter in her hands, Karan executed a powerful overhead swing, aiming to smash the hobgoblin into bloody pulp. Again, however, the blade proved to be to light for her tastes, and the creature parried without problems.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on January 04, 2011, 05:15
While the soldier might have missed badly, it didn't take too much of a beating either. Grunting, it swings its flail at Graven, landing a solid (and challenging!) blow.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 04, 2011, 05:26
Hobgoblin's blow shook Graven of balance and warforged's blow missed the drake he was aiming at.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 04, 2011, 14:07
Inatai held his ground and struck out at the hobgoblin, but the blow did not look like it would find its mark this time either...

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on January 07, 2011, 03:12
Norian, almost like clockwork, fired another Finger of Pelor at the Hobgoblin, hopefully to bring the pain
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on January 07, 2011, 05:45
Seeing it's handler being damaged by your group, the guard drake claws viciously at Graven in an attempt to protect it. It sure does a reasonable job of it as well.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on January 14, 2011, 04:24
The fight continued within the confines of the hallway. Seeing an opening, Adis fired off a bolt of white towards the guard drake. Striking the creature in the head, its body began to slow as frost crept from the point of impact.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on January 16, 2011, 04:11
With mighty huff, Karans recovers from the loss of balance, and proceeds to smack the hobgoblin with the blade once again.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on January 16, 2011, 04:40
Adis cools the Drake down as Karan's blade dents the armor of the Goblin. The Hobgoblin grins and shouts triumphantly as its  nearly half a dozen comrades pour out of the stairwell moments later. Sadly for them, you're still in an enclosed space and their superior numbers are a bit wasted, but they rush at you none the less. None of them manage to do anything worth mentioning, except one does manage to poke at Graven's feet with his sword. It hurt...the sword, at least.

Then you notice at the back of the group, one of the Goblins is drawing back a bowstring...and the resulting arrow lands solidly in Inatai's side.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on January 16, 2011, 05:07
Graven paused for a moment and the rune at his forehead glowed - then he swung his sword. It missed the drake in front of him, but two hobgoblins behind it felt some invisible force cutting them. Their screams distracted the beast for a moment, enough for the warforged to strike again, this time hitting the drake.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on January 16, 2011, 06:44
The large enemy numbers were something of a concern to Inatai, but on the bright side it meant he had far more to call upon for his attack. He lashed out once more at the nearest hobgoblin, his blow meant to distract more than to injure, barely scratching its target... indeed, the shadows he called up did more damage than the blade. But, he hoped, it was enough to open the creature up for a finishing blow by his new allies.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on January 23, 2011, 16:06
Norian notices how they're starting to bunch up in the corridor, and that gives him the idea to give a prayer to Pelor, and release a divine glow on any enemies he could, and hopefully give his allies enough of a boost to hit the enemies, And pops off a quick bit of healing on Graven to keep him going.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on February 09, 2011, 02:18
Graven quickly slays two of the newcomers, evening the odds. Inatai and Norian continue to soften up the targets as well. The Guard Drake staggers and misses when it attempts to bite Graven, then pulls back to lick its wounds.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on February 10, 2011, 18:20
The fight continued to drag on, wearing on Adis' concentration. With a deep breath he held his orb above his head, for a moment it flashed purple then turned jet black. The eyes of the monsters in the corridor fixed on the orb and froze for a moment. Suddenly they started scratching them selves as if something were crawling over their skin.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 13, 2011, 11:26
More and more annoyed by the unsettlingly hard to put down hobgoblin- quite a smelly one too- Karan swings again, not really hoping to hit.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on February 15, 2011, 05:08
Adis' spell results in two satisfying gurgles from dying Goblins. The remaining creatures aren't looking too hot, either. The tip of Karan's sword pierces the Hobgoblin's armor, but it doesn't appear to do any damage.

The goblin with the mean looking bow cries some brutal words that Norian wouldn't care to translate for you, and slide an arrow past Inatai and into the flesh of Adis. The better armed hobgoblin strikes at Graven while he is distracted by the grunt of pain coming from the caster, also landing a solid blow.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on February 15, 2011, 05:25
Graven swung back at the hobgoblin but his attack fell wide of it's target.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 15, 2011, 16:11
Inatai chose to leave finishing off the hobgoblin to the others, and instead went after the withdrawing drake. He teleported past the hobgoblin and appeared next to the beastie, though sadly his blow missed its mark.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on February 18, 2011, 09:44
Norian takes stock of the situation for a bit. He sees that the Hobgoblin in front of them is really messed up. He decides to take a shot at it, and gets a big ol' Finger of Pelor wound up and fires it off, and the projectile screams at the poor hobs head, looking like if it connects, it would shear the hobgoblin's head clean off.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on February 18, 2011, 14:59
Whiff! Whiff! Splat! Gurgle...

You'd think that the cleric wouldn't look so pleased at the size of the blood splatter that Pelor's power created on the dungeon wall...

The Drake is looking less and less certain of itself, but still manages to take a chunk of flesh out of Inatai before stepping backwards one more.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on February 20, 2011, 18:38
One by one the foes in the hallway fell. Spotting the drake retreating, Adis quickly threw up his hand, projecting a small ball of shimmering dust. Striking the creature, it coated the creature in a thin sheathe of ice.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on February 23, 2011, 14:10
The drake was retreating, but way to slowly. Angered at her indolence, Karan lunged towards it, mumbling a silent prayer so that she will be granted an ability to hit this time.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on February 23, 2011, 14:26
Adis continues his streak of pain, but doesn't manage to kill the creature. Karan charges forward and manages to take an arrow for Inatai...perhaps that is what causes her to miss?

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on February 23, 2011, 14:42
Seeing another arrow finding mark, Graven swiftly moved past the drake, ignoring it and engaged the archer. Unlike some previous strikes construct made in this combat, that one was well placed - superbly so even - and left a solid wound on the hobgoblin.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on February 23, 2011, 23:29
Inatai had apparently got tired of the enemies so far constantly evading his blows, and made sure this time there'd be no such problem... Drawing in the shadows around him, he teleported once again, his blow already coming down by the time he reappeared behind the guard drake, scoring a grievious wound.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on February 24, 2011, 03:34
Dodging the claws of the drake, Graven jumped down onto the staircase and used the force of his decent to crack some serious goblin bones. Inatai popped up right behind him and splatted the drake in a fashion that made Norian's earlier Pelor beheading look tame. I won't even attempt to describe it.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on February 28, 2011, 22:23
Norian wiped the drake blood off of his face. "Wow Inatai, that was AMAZING! I didn't even know that drake bones could DO that! Anyways, I think you guys have got this. I'll just keep watch for other threats, if anyone needs healing, yell."

With that, Norian begins to survey the surrounding area incase there were more baddies trying to sneak up, while the more physical members finish off the archer. He takes a deep breath, and begins to divert his attention to his surroundings
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 02, 2011, 01:41
Adis slouched against the wall. His stamina was not holding up for some reason. His companions were making a racket in the far room trying to finish off the enemy. Casting a dirty glare its way, he sat down to rest.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 04, 2011, 12:09
Karan quickly moves towards the last remaining foe, hoping to harm him at least.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 05, 2011, 03:15
The fullblade slips through a notch in the armor near the Archer's neck, and it severs something that apparently was quite vital, as the Archer stops moving entirely and slumps down within a matter of moments. The noise of battle ebbs away, and shortly Sertanian joins you, an oddly happy smile on his lips for such a bloody scene. While you look over the bodies of the dead he rifles through the sacks and bedrolls lining the walls, but doesn't find anything.

He looks down the staircase and motions to your group saying "This has to be the spiral staircase they brought me up when they took me from Mirtala. Let's hope she's in a better state than Kartenix."

Heading down the stairs you're presented with what appears to be the living quarters, if upstairs was their sleeping area. Down a narrow hallway there are four squat sarcophagi littered with things that the Goblins have set aside and forgotten. A flickering light of candles brings your attention to two altars in an adjacent area - but a strong and unpleasant smell coming from a pit nearby it makes you wary to venture over to look at them unless you really have to.

A heavy door leads south, and a tunnel shoots off to the west. Adis correctly informs you that they should lead you to 'that hallway with the pits'.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on March 05, 2011, 21:30
"Well, That was a lot of fun, relatively speaking." Norian said after wiping some blood off of himself. "So, I see some altars over there! I'm going to go see if they are anything interesting, while you guys take a break, maybe keep an eye on those coffins. If you see a lid move at all, give me a shout." With that, Norian walks over to the altars, keeping an eye on his surroundings the whole time. When he gets to the altars, he decides to take a thorough look at them.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on March 10, 2011, 05:20
- "I'll go check in case goblins we killed had keys or other things we might find usefull. Be back shortly."

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 10, 2011, 05:50
Nothing new on the bodies.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 10, 2011, 13:15
Inatai settled down by one of the walls near the staircase to tend to his wounds and meditate briefly. Once he'd recovered from the fight, he moved to inspect the doorway.

"You would wish to go through here, then?" the Gith asked, running his hand over the door's surface, giving it a slight nudge to see if it was even locked. "The choice does appear to be between this passage and backtracking to the entrance to follow a different path..." he muttered mostly to himself.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 10, 2011, 13:50
With everyone doing their own thing, Adis wandered over to one of the Sarcophagi. Clearing it surface, he sat down to rest. 

"Hmm, perhaps my new familiar can slip under the door and scout for us?" He called out to Inatai who had taken to inspecting the large door.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 11, 2011, 02:30
The door has a little resistance, but moves gently once some pressure is applied. It slides noiselessly back into place once Inatai stops applying force.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on March 11, 2011, 03:50
- "It seems that goblins tried in vain to open the graves... well them or someone with intents on plunder" - Graven pointed out returning - "Nothing of interest on the corpses. We might as well move on. The door seems like an obvious idea."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 11, 2011, 05:10
While waiting for the party to reorganize, Adis moved to the door. Opening the door just a crack, he deposited his familiar at the base. Within moments the tiny gelatinous cube had squeezed through. "It will be some time be for he is back." Adis muttered, returning to the sarcophagus he was sitting on.

Musing to himself, Adis began to think of how to open the sarcophagi. There was no way he would be able to manage it, but perhaps he could assist the others. Standing back he began to murmur to himself, focusing his mind on the lid of the sarcophagi. Adis breath slowly became visible and coalesced into frozen mist which drifted to the sarcophagi. Moments later the mist was gone but a film of frost remained on the surface of the lid. "S-so anyone want to crack this open?" Adis asked with a slight shiver.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on March 13, 2011, 07:04
"Hmm...Interesting." Norian turned to his companions and announced his findings.

"Okay, looking at the altars, lots of books, and a couple...eyeballs, It shows that these used to be shrines to Vecna, God of Secrets. However, Looking closer reveals that some of the books are war tactics manuals and that the eyes have a tiny replica of a spear struck through them. Plus, theres also touches of incense that certain warriors burn while praying to a certain god before they go out to battle. The god? Bane, God of Conquest. Judging by how much incense there is, These were recently converted to Altars of Bane. Now, with this, we can reasonably assume one of two things: A) The goblins had a change of heart due to some sort of miracle event and switched to Bane, or B) Someone has taken control of the goblins, and demands that they now worship bane. However, I need more evidence before I can make a conclusion."

Norian took a deep breath, and decided to go look at the garbage pit, despite the horrendous smell. He imagined that used up sacrifices and/or rejected sacrifices were going to be down in there, and maybe he'd get some more info, at the very least, he wondered if there was anything down there at all...maybe even one of the poor souls they were looking for.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on March 14, 2011, 02:38
- "Why assume they worshiped Vecna originally?" - construct interrupted - "Back during my times in Nerath army we fought remnants of even older goblinoid empire, and as far as I know one of major  deities they revered was Bane. Of course I know little of this ones here, but God of Conquest feels like an obvious choice for warband taking the name of - as I've been told one of more successful conquering armies in recent history. Less so with Vecna - they don't seem nearly... subtle enough. I suspect that they were Bane worshipers to begin with, and Vecna altars are something that just happened to be ere in the crypt earlier."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on March 14, 2011, 05:07
Karan appeared to be really annoyed after combat, even more than usually. Apparently her streak of bad luck with goblinoids struck her ego more than she would want to admit. Disregarding the religious discussion, she approached the sarcophagus.

'Me, mage' she muttered to Adis, taking her sword, and using the blade of it as a makeshift crowbar, inserting it between the lid, and then strongly pulling it downwards, hoping that the enchanted steel will not break.
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 14, 2011, 07:03
The smell of stale coffin is a very welcome scent in comparison to the wonderful sewage pit. Karan manages to get the top of the sarcophagus firmly off, making sliding it the rest of the way an easy task. Inside there's a very well decayed skeleton with arms folded over its chest. It's clutching a small, ornamental pendant with an eye engraved on it.

Down near the feet of this skeleton is an odd parcel, wrapped in tattered cloth. Brushing away the cloth reveals a well preserved piece of leather armor, and a small bag with a gem and a few coins within it.

Heartened by this turn of events, Karan continues to pry off the heavy stone lids, with mixed results. Only the nearest sarcophagus has anything of worth, and the two southern ones have multiple skeletons inside, in odd positions. It's hard to decide what they're doing, or who would have buried them in that fashion. But you're able to distract yourself from the sight by the shiny orb from the northern tomb.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 14, 2011, 10:18
    Adis took the orb in hand, examining its surface. While doing so, he felt the base of his robes being pulled. The small familiar had returned with news. Images of a dark hallway and small moving figures in the darkness filled Adis' mind.
    "It seems we may have more gnomes on our hands. I cannot tell due to the darkness but there are definitely several short things moving about behind that door. The corridor continues for a ways and turns left." Adis announced, storing the tiny gelatinous cube inside his robes. He would have to find a container to keep it in once they left, or he would be naked before the week was out.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 14, 2011, 13:29
Inatai turned his attention to the parcel instead of the obvious shiny item, unwrapping it to find the leather armour it contained.

"This would be useful. I shall keep it," he stated, withdrawing briefly out of sight to change outfits, leaving the other spoils to be divided as others saw fit. "As to the corridor ahead: we have an advantage now, for we know what dangers may lurk, while those dangers do not yet know what comes their way. I say we press on."
Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on March 14, 2011, 22:20
"Hmm... You may in fact be correct, Graven. What that leads to now is why there where altars to Vecna here in the first place...An old cult? Maybe an ancient civilization? Who knows? Once again, I'll need more evidence to figure this out." Norian turns around and walks away from the pit.

"Okay, first the good news. I didn't find any sacrifices or anything similar down there, so we can assume, at least for now, the the others are still alive."

"On the other hand, I smell absolutely horrendous right now, and will need to wash myself throughly when we get back to town. By the way, I agree with Inatai, let's get moving, after we grab the rest of the stuff, of course." Norian suddenly had a thought. It was time consuming, and would probably turn up nothing, but he wanted to make sure he had covered all his bases. "Wait, let me take a quick look at these skeletons, maybe there's a reason they're buried like this, if not, then we can get moving, I suppose."

Norian proceeds to go over to the coffins and take a look. He is immediately struck by the feeling that something wasn't quite...right, about the skeletons. He couldn't put his finger on it, but there was certainly something off. "I...I may need some assistance, Adis, perhaps you can come over and see if you can figure out what's wrong with these skeletons, because I can't. But there IS something wrong. There's some extra hands in these southernmost tombs, but not from any of the skeletons in there, but there's something up, I don't know what though. What's going on here?"
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 21, 2011, 03:10
Norian manages to convince everyone to take a look, but besides the obvious of "Whoa, too many hands!" no one could figure out exactly what was going on in the graves.

When Sertanian started muttering about Mirtala and started walking towards the door to the south, Graven decided that perhaps you should move on the for the moment. The hallway was nondescript, and as Adis had described, did turn left after around twenty feet.

Turning the corner quickly in an attempt at surprise, you realize why the little creature wasn't able to get a good look at what was in the room. On the far wall is an altar, with a crumpled form chained to the front of it. The candlelight from the altar bathes over several statues between you and it, and you notice with an odd shiver that their eyes are glowing. What they are is only revealed once Adis' spell flares into life: displacer beast statues. Thankfully not THAT lifelike, but still very distressing.

Encounter: Fresco Chamber

You quickly notice a few large rats moving near the statues, and while they're still reeling from the change in light, you attack!

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on March 21, 2011, 13:28
Inatai wasn't quite so willing to charge into battle this time. "Hm. A dead end - but some prize with it, at least. Be wary of those statues..." he stated as he drew in the surrounding shadows into a sheath for his blade - then turned said sheath into three black darts that launched at the rat in the middle of the hall.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on March 22, 2011, 12:18
"Yes, those statues don't...don't look right." Norian said with a bit of a serious tone to his voice. He hated jump scares more than most people, and that's saying something. "However, we have something more important in front of us. These rats will be all over us if we don't hurry and kill them right now...although the statues are a more pressing concern"

Norian tosses a ball of white fire at a rodent near the one Inatai tried to hit,
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on March 27, 2011, 23:50
Joining in on the barrage, Adis blasted one of the rats with ice, rooting it to the floor. As he did he couldn't understand his companions reactions to the statues. I mean they are just Displacer Beasts.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on March 31, 2011, 02:24
- "[Warning: joke module error] Somebody called the exterminator?" - Graven swung his sword without moving and like goblins in previous battle, the rats felt some force cutting and pushing them.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on March 31, 2011, 03:18
Your success in surprising these evil monsters further continues as nearly every attempt to harm them is successful, resulting in a wonderful range of painful squeaks and shrieks. One of the rats even staggers backwards from the force of your combined blows.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on April 05, 2011, 15:50
Karan lunged forward, sword raised high. She was in a very, very, very bad mood, due to her less than glorious conduct during last few fights.

Charging at the wounded rat, she allowed the scent of sweet blood to overtake her senses as she struck against it.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on April 05, 2011, 16:22
Inatai skipped on his usual teleporting through the shadows routine, and with blade drawn simply ran towards the current closest rat to strike another blow. The sword, however, missed the little vermin and scraped along the floor instead.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Tavana on April 09, 2011, 06:03
Karan's new blade slides with ease out the other end of the rat's torso, but her second attack is just wide the next rat.

Both the remaining rats appear to dislike Karan having killed their comrade and attack her, but they miss very badly.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Madtrixr on April 16, 2011, 06:46
Norian decides to toss another lance of faith
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: S.K. Ren on April 18, 2011, 02:23
Envisioning a field of razor sharp wires, invisible threads appeared around one of the rats. However the rat was too low to be caught from their initial appearance.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Malek Deneith on April 27, 2011, 04:10
Graven moves towards the other rat and takes a swing at it.
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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Gargulec on May 04, 2011, 04:37
Overjoyed when warm rodent's blood sprayed on her face, Karan continues to cleave her way through those rats of unusual size.

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Title: Re: Scales of War: DnD 4e PBF
Post by: Xander Morhaime on May 04, 2011, 15:25
Inatai took advantage of the rats being distracted by the other fighters and took to travelling through the shadows once more - this time appearing behind the two rats to deliver a blow to the one that Karan had just targeted.

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