Kish
 
 Spoiler 
 This  is the previous thread.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Ugggghhhhh!" 
Adrianna puts her head in her hands.
 "Just when I get Scholar and Xan to make up, you two decide to get at each others throats!" 
She stops Soren and then puts her hands together, before pointing them at his chest.
 "Okay... Look. Xan has to travel with us to... well, you know... so you two will have to make up. And if I have to, I will mediate to get the two of you talking to each other again!"  
 

Soren throws up his hands.  "I know, I know!"  He throws himself back onto a nearby bench and lets his hands flop into his lap.  "Look, I know I need to talk to Xan, but it seems like every time something gets messed up. Could you mediate?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren throws up his hands.  "I know, I know!"  He throws himself back onto a nearby bench and lets his hands flop into his lap.  "Look, I know I need to talk to Xan, but it seems like every time something gets messed up. Could you mediate?"  
 

 "I already said I will mediate and make sure you 2 will get along." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  Kaarna snorts loudly. "I don't fear a fight." While she's talking, Veca clambers down from her hair and unto the windowsill.

"So...", Kaarna looks up and down, "This is what we'll be doing from now on. Sit here neatly until that blasted dragon sees fit to talk to us?" The prospect doesn't seem to be to her liking. 
 

Scholar walks up the stairs in search of Adrianna, buoyed by something actually going right in identifying the blade's enchantment. Hearing voices inside, she knocks loudly on the door before letting herself in.  "You're back rather early."  She surveys the room carefully.  "I notice you've lost your escort. Kaarna, are you filling in? An 'evil witch' seems to be an interesting substitute for a paladin." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
 Scholar walks up the stairs in search of Adrianna, buoyed by something actually going right in identifying the blade's enchantment. Hearing voices inside, she knocks loudly on the door before letting herself in.  "You're back rather early."  She surveys the room carefully.  "I notice you've lost your escort. Kaarna, are you filling in? An 'evil witch' seems to be an interesting substitute for a paladin."  
 

 "So you can attempt 'humor'.  Guess that proves you wrong Kaarna.  It was more than one word and seemed more an opinion than fact."   Xan popped a dagger out of a wrist sheath and examined it, making a few tossing gestures as if aiming toward the roof.  "Kaarna here was just saying you don't like her.  You don't like much of anyone do you?" 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "So you can attempt 'humor'.  Guess that proves you wrong Kaarna.  It was more than one word and seemed more an opinion than fact."   Xan popped a dagger out of a wrist sheath and examined it, making a few tossing gestures as if aiming toward the roof.  "Kaarna here was just saying you don't like her.  You don't like much of anyone do you?"  
 


 "Whether or not I like any of you is irrelevant."  Scholar taps her chest near the dragonmark with a metallic clang.  "We are stuck with each other for a little while yet, no matter how I feel about the... company." 

She gestures vaguely at Kaarna.  "Still, I do not dislike  you , although I probably should."  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
  "Whether or not I like any of you is irrelevant."  Scholar taps her chest near the dragonmark with a metallic clang.  "We are stuck with each other for a little while yet, no matter how I feel about the... company." 

She gestures vaguely at Kaarna.  "Still, I do not dislike  you , although I probably should."   
 

 "See Kaarna, nothing to worry about.  The bard likes you, the paladin tolerates you, the emotionless killing machine even doesn't dislike you."   Xan turned her head to the side, looking at Scholar.   "Though you are a strange killing machine.  I'll give you that.  Never seen one take to books and spells.  Be careful Warforged, you'll still burn."  She sat up quickly, sliding the dagger back into her wrist sheathe and reseating the mechanism.  "Just at slightly higher temperatures." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
  "Whether or not I like any of you is irrelevant."  Scholar taps her chest near the dragonmark with a metallic clang.  "We are stuck with each other for a little while yet, no matter how I feel about the... company." 

She gestures vaguely at Kaarna.  "Still, I do not dislike  you , although I probably should."   
 

 "Oh yes, you most definitely should."  Kaarna cackles.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "See Kaarna, nothing to worry about.  The bard likes you, the paladin tolerates you, the emotionless killing machine even doesn't dislike you."   Xan turned her head to the side, looking at Scholar.   "Though you are a strange killing machine.  I'll give you that.  Never seen one take to books and spells.  Be careful Warforged, you'll still burn."  She sat up quickly, sliding the dagger back into her wrist sheathe and reseating the mechanism.  "Just at slightly higher temperatures."  
 

The witch continues to snicker.  "Is that meant as a threat? Though I agree, on that fire is a most satisfying tool for revenge."  She grins and her eyes adapt a distant look, as if she's reminiscing a particularly pleasant memory.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Oh yes, you most definitely should."  Kaarna cackles.



The witch continues to snicker.  "Is that meant as a threat? Though I agree, on that fire is a most satisfying tool for revenge."  She grins and her eyes adapt a distant look, as if she's reminiscing a particularly pleasant memory. 
 

 "An observation.  I have no means of accessing fire hot enough to melt metal. And if I wanted revenge for something a word to the right party about a marked warforged would be far more valuable.  Except for the fact that she could just as easily reveal my mark, and I have no desire to be trapped and studied the rest of my life." . Xan's tone rose from calm to agitated as she spoke before she grabbed her knees closer and started taking deep.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "I already said I will mediate and make sure you 2 will get along."  
 

Soren sighs in relief, a whole-body thing complete with a slouch of his shoulders.  "Thanks, Adrianne."  He straightens up and the smile returns to his face.  "Should we head back?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren sighs in relief, a whole-body thing complete with a slouch of his shoulders.  "Thanks, Adrianne."  He straightens up and the smile returns to his face.  "Should we head back?"  
 

 "If there is nothing else we need while out, then yes." 
 
 Spoiler 
I expect it'll be a little while before Adrianna and Soren are able to get back, so Scholar, Kaarna, and Xan can interact a bit while longer if they'd like.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "An observation.  I have no means of accessing fire hot enough to melt metal. And if I wanted revenge for something a word to the right party about a marked warforged would be far more valuable.  Except for the fact that she could just as easily reveal my mark, and I have no desire to be trapped and studied the rest of my life." . Xan's tone rose from calm to agitated as she spoke before she grabbed her knees closer and started taking deep. 
 


 "I'm sure Kaarna would be more than happy to provide you with all the fire you wish- but why don't we worry about who's burning whom when we are finished with this dragon mark business."  Scholar's voice is quiet as she continues.  "We do not have to like each other, Xan. But fighting each other right now is pointless."  
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "If there is nothing else we need while out, then yes." 
 
 Spoiler 
I expect it'll be a little while before Adrianna and Soren are able to get back, so Scholar, Kaarna, and Xan can interact a bit while longer if they'd like.
 
 
 

Soren adjusts the bracers on his arms.  "Then let's go,"  he says as he heads back to the inn.

 
 Spoiler: Meetup time 
When do you want Soren and Adrianna to get back to the others?
 
Kish
Five days after you last spoke to Sur'kil, you hear his telepathic voice in your head again (or, in the case of Xan and Adrianna, for the first time).  "I have discovered a lead. Come to my ship." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna stopped what she was doing (which was just fiddling with her stuff) and looked over at Xan concerned.
 "Did you also... hear, a voice in your head just now?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna stopped what she was doing (which was just fiddling with her stuff) and looked over at Xan concerned.
 "Did you also... hear, a voice in your head just now?"  
 

Xan stopped mid-smack of her head.   "Oh good. You heard that too?"   She had spent the last few days practicing with her swords in the room, and occasionally trying to activate her dragonmark, with no success.   "I guess that's a dragon thing?  I guess we should do as he says."   She had been avoiding Soren since the fight, brushing Adrianna off when the paladin brought it up.  She winced at the idea of having to be in the same room as him.
CoffeeIncluded
Soren nearly topples off the bed where he was laying on his side, experimenting with some minor illusions that dance around his fingertips.

 "Okay did anyone else hear that?"  he asks as he twists himself upright, his gaze meetkng Kaarna and Scholar's. He hasn't gone into the other room the past few days. He's tried to speak with the changeling the past few days, but every time she vanished or walked away.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan stopped mid-smack of her head.   "Oh good. You heard that too?"   She had spent the last few days practicing with her swords in the room, and occasionally trying to activate her dragonmark, with no success.   "I guess that's a dragon thing?  I guess we should do as he says."   She had been avoiding Soren since the fight, brushing Adrianna off when the paladin brought it up.  She winced at the idea of having to be in the same room as him. 
 

Adrianna nods.
 "Although you know this means you'll have to be in the same room as Soren this time..." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna nods.
 "Although you know this means you'll have to be in the same room as Soren this time..."  
 

 "I was just realizing that.  But it doesn't mean I have to acknowledge him."   Xan finished getting her items into her pouch and pack, making her side of the room look like no-one had been staying there.  She had not redone the half-elf form she had been wearing before, instead choosing to go with the refugee woman Adrianna had rescued . "We going?"   She stood by the door, waiting to follow Adrianna.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I was just realizing that.  But it doesn't mean I have to acknowledge him."   Xan finished getting her items into her pouch and pack, making her side of the room look like no-one had been staying there.  She had not redone the half-elf form she had been wearing before, instead choosing to go with the refugee woman Adrianna had rescued . "We going?"   She stood by the door, waiting to follow Adrianna. 
 

Adrianna stared at the refugee woman's form for a moment before turning away, a look of disappointment on her face.
 "Okay. But if we have to travel somewhere dangerous, you two are going to have to acknowledge each other and clear this all up. Having a spat among travelers gets people killed. I've seen it happen to enough refugees and I don't intend for you or him to become one of them." 
She puts on her shoulder pouch as she talks. She ignores the mild case of irritation arising from the strap crossing flatly across her front. She heads over to the door and proceeds to open it and puts a foot out the door.
 "So lets talk to Sur'kil Miss...." 
She turns and looks over her shoulder.
 "...and who are you supposed to be called now? Given that our half-elf Sora is not attending and you didn't give me your name at the pass, I don't know how to properly address you." 
Athedia
 Call me Natasha.  Good a name as any."  A very grouchy Xan then proceeded to leave for Sur'kil's boat.

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
Why yes, all the alternative names WILL be taken from other games I am in.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  Call me Natasha.  Good a name as any."  A very grouchy Xan then proceeded to leave for Sur'kil's boat.

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
Why yes, all the alternative names WILL be taken from other games I am in.
 
 
 

 "Alright then, 'Natasha.'" 
Adrianna also proceeds to Sur'kil's boat.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren nearly topples off the bed where he was laying on his side, experimenting with some minor illusions that dance around his fingertips.

 "Okay did anyone else hear that?"  he asks as he twists himself upright, his gaze meetkng Kaarna and Scholar's. He hasn't gone into the other room the past few days. He's tried to speak with the changeling the past few days, but every time she vanished or walked away. 
 

Kaarna frowns.  "Yup. Guess it's time to say hello to the dragon again."  She had been sitting on the floor surrounded by scrolls and ash left over from those had ceremoniously been fed to the scorpion. Kaarna scooped up the remaining spell papers and Veca, and stood up.  "Off we go." 
Kish
At Sur'kil's ship, the same sailor as before ushers you to Sur'kil's cabin. Sur'kil and Lydia await you there; once you're all inside, the sailor leaves and closes the door behind him.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 At Sur'kil's ship, the same sailor as before ushers you to Sur'kil's cabin. Sur'kil and Lydia await you there; once you're all inside, the sailor leaves and closes the door behind him. 
 

Scholar skips the diplomatic preambles, launching directly into her question.  "What is this 'lead' that you have uncovered? Any clue as to Jheamast's secret would be most welcome." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna nods to Scholar's question before turning her head both left and right and sighing. She doesn't quite know how, but for some reason she wound up being between both Xan and Soren, both of which were pretending the other didn't exist.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 At Sur'kil's ship, the same sailor as before ushers you to Sur'kil's cabin. Sur'kil and Lydia await you there; once you're all inside, the sailor leaves and closes the door behind him. 
 

Soren fiddles his hands together. He nods but keeps his head fixed forward, unable to give Xan even a side-eye at the moment. He did flash a smile to Kaarna though.
Kish
Sur'kil nods to Scholar.  "The last known person to have traveled to Jheamast's tomb was Eliam ir'Veldras, a self-styled adventurer who funded his expeditions from his wealthy family's fortune. Eliam died after his trip, but a journal of his travels came into the hands of a Karrnathi expatriate whose mansion overlooks the Lhazaar Straits."

"If the Emerald Claw believes that you brought me an artifact which they desire to take from me, they will expect me to leave for Argonessen and pay you no further thought, so that is what I will appear to do. I will arrange your travel to the Lhazaar Principalities by a ship with no known connection to me, while I research your marks further, and hopefully transfix the Claw's attention." 
Silverraptor
 "So you will run bait as we go track down a book that can help us? Well thank you kindly. How long a trip will this take?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Sur'kil nods to Scholar.  "The last known person to have traveled to Jheamast's tomb was Eliam ir'Veldras, a self-styled adventurer who funded his expeditions from his wealthy family's fortune. Eliam died after his trip, but a journal of his travels came into the hands of a Karrnathi expatriate whose mansion overlooks the Lhazaar Straits."

"If the Emerald Claw believes that you brought me an artifact which they desire to take from me, they will expect me to leave for Argonessen and pay you no further thought, so that is what I will appear to do. I will arrange your travel to the Lhazaar Principalities by a ship with no known connection to me, while I research your marks further, and hopefully transfix the Claw's attention."  
 

 "So it sounds like we need to get into this mansion and find that journal while you draw the Claw's attention. How will we know what the book is? And what do we do if the Claw finds you?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "So it sounds like we need to get into this mansion and find that journal while you draw the Claw's attention. How will we know what the book is? And what do we do if the Claw finds you?"  
 

 "I'm sure a dragon can handle a couple of spineless idiots",  Kaarna comments,  Though it would be useful if you can send a warning to us once the jig is up",  she continues, addressing Sur'kil.
Kish
 "It will likely take you around two weeks to make the trip to the Lhazaar Principalities. From there, getting into Vorgaard's estate and finding the journal will be up to you; it will obviously be easier to identify the journal if you convince him to cooperate. I'll leave another four sending stones with you; you can contact me if you need to. If the Claw tracks me down expecting to find a powerless old relic hunter, they'll get a surprise which they will hopefully not have a chance to report."  He smiles coldly.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "It will likely take you around two weeks to make the trip to the Lhazaar Principalities. From there, getting into Vorgaard's estate and finding the journal will be up to you; it will obviously be easier to identify the journal if you convince him to cooperate. I'll leave another four sending stones with you; you can contact me if you need to. If the Claw tracks me down expecting to find a powerless old relic hunter, they'll get a surprise which they will hopefully not have a chance to report."  He smiles coldly. 
 

 "Getting in won't be that hard.  Is there any other information you can give us, or advice you can provide?  Seeing as our future lives are very much dependent on you." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "It will likely take you around two weeks to make the trip to the Lhazaar Principalities. From there, getting into Vorgaard's estate and finding the journal will be up to you; it will obviously be easier to identify the journal if you convince him to cooperate. I'll leave another four sending stones with you; you can contact me if you need to. If the Claw tracks me down expecting to find a powerless old relic hunter, they'll get a surprise which they will hopefully not have a chance to report."  He smiles coldly. 
 

Soren leans back in the chair.  "So maybe we could convince him to show us the journal, or we could sneak in and grab it. Problem with the second one is that the only ones good at sneaking are me and...Xan,"  he realizes with a groan and a palm to his forehead.  "Thanks for the stones though. And if you do give them thr surprise could you share the aftermath with us? It bet it would be be entertaining." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren leans back in the chair.  "So maybe we could convince him to show us the journal, or we could sneak in and grab it. Problem with the second one is that the only ones good at sneaking are me and...Xan,"  he realizes with a groan and a palm to his forehead.  "Thanks for the stones though. And if you do give them thr surprise could you share the aftermath with us? It bet it would be be entertaining."  
 

Xan gave Soren a dismissive look.   " I  am good at sneaking.   You  are... adequate." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna makes an irritable sound and shakes her head at Soren and Xan.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan gave Soren a dismissive look.   " I  am good at sneaking.   You  are... adequate."  
 

 "There's more than one way to sneak around,"  Soren answers with a grin that's a challenge.

He then turns back to Sur'kil.  "So when do we head out?" 
Kish
 "I detect problems in your group. I hope you can manage to work together for the time being, as all your lives depend on it. If I learn more, I will certainly inform you as soon as I can."  He looks curiously at Scholar for a few seconds before continuing.  "Lydia tells me you have opted not to attempt to trigger your dragonmarks. It is your decision, but I do not think that is a wise one; it is all but certain your dragonmarks will have some effect soon, and you can exert no control over where or when or on what or whom they have an effect if you do not know what they do." 

He turns his right hand palm up.  "The Geyser awaits you. Its captain has been instructed to take you wherever you need to go for the duration, and that you will want to travel to the Lhazaar Principalities first. My ship will leave in the morning." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "I detect problems in your group. I hope you can manage to work together for the time being, as all your lives depend on it. If I learn more, I will certainly inform you as soon as I can."  He looks curiously at Scholar for a few seconds before continuing.  "Lydia tells me you have opted not to attempt to trigger your dragonmarks. It is your decision, but I do not think that is a wise one; it is all but certain your dragonmarks will have some effect soon, and you can exert no control over where or when or on what or whom they have an effect if you do not know what they do." 

He turns his right hand palm up.  "The Geyser awaits you. Its captain has been instructed to take you wherever you need to go for the duration, and that you will want to travel to the Lhazaar Principalities first. My ship will leave in the morning."  
 

 "It's not that I haven't tried.  I don't know where to start.  Not like they make a guidebook on 'triggering marks for races that shouldn't have them'." 
Silverraptor
 "Well, you'll all have travel time to try and figure it out. We'll just need to go back and grab all of our stuff and load them onto the ship first then, and we're off. Hopefully we can leave sooner rather then later as we do have a time limit currently going on." 
aReallyGreatAxe
 I believe Adrianna has the correct idea. However, Xan is actually correct. Without having an idea of how to trigger them, she and I are a little disadvantaged. Becoming angry with Xan seems to have activated Adrianna's, but I can assure you that my trigger at least must be different." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "I detect problems in your group. I hope you can manage to work together for the time being, as all your lives depend on it. If I learn more, I will certainly inform you as soon as I can."  He looks curiously at Scholar for a few seconds before continuing.  "Lydia tells me you have opted not to attempt to trigger your dragonmarks. It is your decision, but I do not think that is a wise one; it is all but certain your dragonmarks will have some effect soon, and you can exert no control over where or when or on what or whom they have an effect if you do not know what they do."  
 

 "It's not that I wouldn't try",  Kaarna says stretching her arms,  "But I can't find a willing test subject. And they keep telling me that the first part is necessary."  She smirks.
CoffeeIncluded
 "And my mark doesn't look like anything I've ever seen, so it's not like I have much to go on there either other than Adrianna and I don't have that same trigger either."  He looks over at Kaarna.  "Don't worry. Knowing our luck, we'll find some subjects for you to test these on soon enough." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "And my mark doesn't look like anything I've ever seen, so it's not like I have much to go on there either other than Adrianna and I don't have that same trigger either."  He looks over at Kaarna.  "Don't worry. Knowing our luck, we'll find some subjects for you to test these on soon enough."  
 

 "Maybe your mark causes violent outbursts."   Xan pointedly did not look at Soren or Scholar as she spoke.  Finally she processed Sur'kil's words.   "Oh goody.  Boats.  Adrianna let's go get our stuff... and a spot by the railing." 
Kish
 "I obviously lack firsthand knowledge of how to activate dragonmarks, but from what I have heard, it should involve concentrating on creating a magical effect. Not necessarily one that affects another person. Good luck in your journey, regardless."  Sur'kil watches as you leave.

As you leave the ship, you hear footsteps, and a cloaked humanoid hurries past you. It takes you a moment to realize why they stand out as odd: there's nothing but the  Swiftwind  and the open sea in the direction they're coming from.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "I obviously lack firsthand knowledge of how to active dragonmarks, but from what I have heard, it should involve concentrating on creating a magical effect. Not necessarily one that affects another person. Good luck in your journey, regardless."  Sur'kil watches as you leave.

As you leave the ship, you hear footsteps, and a cloaked humanoid hurries past you. It takes you a moment to realize why they stand out as odd: there's nothing but the  Swiftwind  and the open sea in the direction they're coming from. 
 

Xan paused for a second processing the stranger.  Sur'kil would have no reason to sneak past them, neither would Lydia.  Splitting from the group she decided to follow the hurried man from a discrete distance.

 
 Spoiler: Stealth 
Fast Stealth allows me to go at full speed w/o penalties
Stealth:  (1d20+13)[ 33 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren freezes in place, mid-step with his foot hovering above the ground. He's about to turn and chase after her when Xan simply vanishes from their sides without a trace. So he tries something else. Soren closes his eyes and places a fist to his throat. There's a warm glow of magic inside his trachea and he whispers,

 "Xan, what do you see? Do you want us to chase after him or stop him?" 
 
 Spoiler: What Soren does 
Soren casts Message and has a whispered conversation with Xan.
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan 
The cloaked figure moves hastily down the pier; as he does, he pulls out a stone and mumbles into it. (Make a Perception check to overhear what he's saying.)
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Perception 
 (1d20+11)[ 27 ]  Using 1 action point as well  (1d6)[ 6 ] 
 


Xan heard Soren's message, but remained remained quiet as she focused in on the man with the stone.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan 
"They're on their way to Vorgaard's estate; the old man's playing decoy," you hear as he walks hastily along.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Xan's eyes widened, whoever this was knew.  She had to keep following him.
 


Quietly she whispered, hoping that Soren would hear her.  "Stop him.  Now.  He just told someone where we are headed." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren freezes in place, fist still on his throat so his whispered words are heard by Xan as well as his friends.  "Oh ****. He knows our plans, and he told. We've gotta stop him now. Xan, where are you?"  he asks as he breaks into a run, only remembering the spell is still active as he does so.
CoffeeIncluded
Stealth:  (d20+11)[ 24 ] 

If it doesn't work I have another plan.
Kish
As Soren runs after the cloaked figure, and Adrianna moves to cut him off, he starts to run and Kaarna casts a spell, paralyzing him.
Athedia
Xan walked up behind the man, hiding her weapons and other identifying items.  "Rule 1. Don't make a report until you reach the safehouse.  Wouldnt have stopped me following, but I can promise these folks wouldn't have caught up." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 As Soren runs after the cloaked figure, and Adrianna moves to cut him off, he starts to run and Kaarna casts a spell, paralyzing him. 
 

 "Hurry up!",  Kaarna snarls,  "The spell might not last long!" 
CWater
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry for double posting, but since this is done a day later than the previous post, and edit might easily go unnoticed.

Kaarna activates Flight and moves 60 ft. towards the man.
 


Kaarna concentrates to activate one of the hexes and then takes flight towards the paralysed enemy, keeping close to the ground for now.
CoffeeIncluded
Soren races forward as well, sizing up the situation at a glance. He's frozen, at least for now. He slows to a brisk walk from an all-out sprint and casually undoes his scarf in one smooth motion. With another he's by the spy's side, pulling his wrists behind his back and preparing to tie them. But after he disarms the man he waits and says with exaggerated cheer,  "I'm sure this is all a big misunderstanding. Why don't we have a friendly chat?"  
 
 Spoiler: sorens action 
Soren does all that and then casts Charm Person. Will save DC of I believe 16?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren's smile brightens as he sees and feels the spell take hold.  "Sorry about that! It was all a big misunderstanding. Are you okay?"  He throws his hand over the man's shoulder in a friendly fashion, but at the same time turns his head to give Kaarna and Xan a wink.  "What happened here?" 
Kish
 "Of course,"  the man says, his face still hidden behind his hood, but his voice cheerful.  "I overheard them talking. The relic is at Vorgaard's estate in the Lhazaar Principalities. Our ship will have already left! They'll get there long before...before..."  he sounds confused.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "Of course,"  the man says, his face still hidden behind his hood, but his voice cheerful.  "I overheard them talking. The relic is at Vorgaard's estate in the Lhazaar Principalities. Our ship will have already left! They'll get there long before...before..."  he sounds confused. 
 

 "Hey, hey, what relic are you talking about?"  Soren says hastily, trying to get him off the subject.  "You know I'm not part of your group, but that's never mattered before!"  He pauses.  "Look, I was heading to Vorgaard's estate for my own stuff, but it seems like your group and whoever this "them" is are in a race. Is there something I should know about or stay away from? I don't want to make anything harder for you." 
CWater
Kaarna stops and lands about twenty feet away. Best let Soren work his silver tongue in peace, she thinks. They could try other methods later, if he failed to get information. Silently, she calls another spell to her mind, ready to cast if the bard's spell should break.

 
 Spoiler 
Kaarna stays at a 20 ft. distance and readies and action to cast Web Bolt on the man if he should suddenly choose to run or attack.
 
Kish
 "You know,  the  relic."  The man doesn't seem to notice Kaarna.  "You should probably stay away, until you hear...wait, why were you going there?" 

He doesn't seem in a particular hurry to leave.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "You know,  the  relic."  The man doesn't seem to notice Kaarna.  "You should probably stay away, until you hear...wait, why were you going there?" 

He doesn't seem in a particular hurry to leave. 
 

Soren twists his mouth into an expression of benign bemusement, turns his palms and pulls his shoulders upwards in a shrug.  "I dunno, I'm not part of your group--wait, what's your group called again? I'm really sorry, you told me once but I can't quite remember right now. I got to bed way too late and I'm basically running on sunlight and coffee right now."  He frowns at the second remark.  "Wait, is there going to be trouble? I'm just there on business, need to make a delivery to the manor is all. I won't be in your way, will I?"  He yawns--his exhaustion isn't entirely faked--and under the cover of a hand placed over his mouth for politeness' sake whispers to Xan through the Message spell,   "Ask him what?"  
aReallyGreatAxe
Scholar walked a bit closer to Soren just in case this strange amicability should end. She stopped before she was able to hear exactly what they were saying and watched his chatting up of the spy with some amusement.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Scholar is stopping 90' away from the interaction.
 
Kish
 "You should definitely wait at least a week before going there, it might be dangerous right now. We're the Order of the Emerald Claw, of course, Karrnath's true patriots." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "You should definitely wait at least a week before going there, it might be dangerous right now. We're the Order of the Emerald Claw, of course, Karrnath's true patriots."  
 

Xan's fingertips twitched, almost releasing the blades. Resisting the urge she whispered quietly to Soren.  "How about he says who his contact is?  And why he was reporting people's locations?  And then how about we get rid of him for Karrnath." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "You should definitely wait at least a week before going there, it might be dangerous right now. We're the Order of the Emerald Claw, of course, Karrnath's true patriots."  
 

 "Oh yeah, silly me!"  He taps his head to his forehead in an appeasing gesture, but also so that Xan can just see his outstretched thumb in response to her whispered reply.  "Seriously though, thanks for the heads-up. You think there will be trouble with this group your racing the relic for? What's that about anyway?"  He pauses.  "Actually, the Claw's headed there to take this whatever-it-is and not kill the head of the estate, are they? Because if they are I'm going to need a faster ship or my boss is gonna be  pissed! "

"But really, you guys are dedicated if you've already got allies on the move. How did you do that so fast; it's amazing!" 

Just a friend sharing some info (and it is true, technically Sur'kill is their boss) and a bit of flattery, hopefully it'll make the man share his own info in turn...
Kish
 "They'll do what needs to be done. Whatever that turns out to be. I contacted them as soon as...as soon as..."  He looks confused again.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "They'll do what needs to be done. Whatever that turns out to be.   
 

Soren groans.  So either I go in later and risk this guy being dead and my pissed off boss handing me my own balls on a platter or I try to find a faster ship. I don't suppose you know any? Though I guess that's what I get for being so lackadaisical about this."  He flashes the lance somewhat rueful grin.


  "I contacted them as soon as...as soon as..."  He looks confused again. 

 "Which is to get this relic. Well, if your partners are as fast as you are I don't expect any trouble. Though between you and me,"  Soren leans in conspiratorially,  "What exactly makes this relic so special?" 
Kish
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren groans.  So either I go in later and risk this guy being dead and my pissed off boss handing me my own balls on a platter or I try to find a faster ship. I don't suppose you know any? Though I guess that's what I get for being so lackadaisical about this."  He flashes the lance somewhat rueful grin.  
 

 "If I did, we'd be using it to get there. Heh heh." 

  "Which is to get this relic. Well, if your partners are as fast as you are I don't expect any trouble. Though between you and me,"  Soren leans in conspiratorially,  "What exactly makes this relic so special?"  

 "I don't actually know that. Above my rank." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "If I did, we'd be using it to get there. Heh heh."  
 

 "Yeah, I figured. You guys are pretty big after all."  Soren bends his neck and gives a little wave to the front of trousers covered by his tunic.  "Bye guys. It was nice knowing you,"  he jokes.


  "I don't actually know that. Above my rank."  

 "Ha, same here! Anything you do know about it or why you're chasing these guys?"  he asks, leaning in conspiratorially.
Kish
 "Just that it's very important. Much more important than me."  He chuckles disturbingly at that point.  "Ha, they won't...they..."  He starts to look confused again.
Athedia
Xan made eye contact with Soren and gently rested her hands on her swords.  She looked at the man questioningly then back at Soren.  She waited for his word.
Silverraptor
At this point, Adrianna had completed her loop around on her horse and now could be seen riding in from the direction the man was trying to escape from in the distance. It'll take about a minute for her to meet up with the group.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "Just that it's very important. Much more important than me."  He chuckles disturbingly at that point.  "Ha, they won't...they..."  He starts to look confused again. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan made eye contact with Soren and gently rested her hands on her swords.  She looked at the man questioningly then back at Soren.  She waited for his word. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 At this point, Adrianna had completed her loop around on her horse and now could be seen riding in from the direction the man was trying to escape from in the distance. It'll take about a minute for her to meet up with the group. 
 

Soren looks around, locking his eyes on Xan before glancing down the alleyway in the direction where he hears the hoofbeats of Adrianna's horse approaching. As soon as she come close Soren turns back to the Emerald Claw member and says.  "I guess that's that then. And they won't."  Soren steps in front of the man--just like someone would face their friend, but also how someone would flank their foe. His smile fades.  "Sorry about this." 
 
 Spoiler 
Now.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren looks around, locking his eyes on Xan before glancing down the alleyway in the direction where he hears the hoofbeats of Adrianna's horse approaching. As soon as she come close Soren turns back to the Emerald Claw member and says.  "I guess that's that then. And they won't."  Soren steps in front of the man--just like someone would face their friend, but also how someone would flank their foe. His smile fades.  "Sorry about this." 
 
 Spoiler 
Now.
 
 
 

Xan nodded and pulled out both her swords simultaneously, bringing them down at the mans back.   "For Kaarnath."  As she spoke she looked Soren directly in the eyes to see his reaction.

 
 Spoiler: Sneak Attack 
Sword 1
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
SA Damage:  (3d6)[ 11 ] 

Sword 2
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
SA Damage:  (3d6)[ 16 ] 
 
Kish
 "About whaAAAAGH!"  the man says as Xan stabs him. Bleeding copiously, he falls to the street with a confused look at Soren.
CoffeeIncluded
 "What the heck?! I thought you were gonna knock him out!"  Soren takes a step back from the man in shock. Emerald claw or not, that look on his face, even though he deserves it, is why Soren doesn't like using that spell.
Silverraptor
Adrianna rides up to see the aftermath with the man dead on the ground. She stares at the body with apprehension for a bit before she finally speaks.
 "...Please tell me we got useful information out of him." 
Athedia
 "Knock him out? HOW?"  Xan gestured with the blades still in her hands.   "Not exactly loaded down with nonlethal options here." . She looked at the bleeding man and winced stepping away before her new clothes could be stained.  "If you want to save cultist scum, I'm not helping." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Knock him out? HOW?"  Xan gestured with the blades still in her hands.   "Not exactly loaded down with nonlethal options here." . She looked at the bleeding man and winced stepping away before her new clothes could be stained.  "If you want to save cultist scum, I'm not helping."  
 

 "I don't know, the butts of your daggers? Something?"  Soren sighs, running his hand down his face.  "Look, it startled me. I wasn't expecting that. Plus I thought maybe we could take him to Surkil and have him cast some
Magic so this guy would forget being caught. Once the Claw finds him they'll know we know."  

 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna rides up to see the aftermath with the man dead on the ground. She stares at the body with apprehension for a bit before she finally speaks.
 "...Please tell me we got useful information out of him."  
 

 "Some,"  Soren says, not quite turning around.  "He was Emerald Claw, spying on us. They're looking for the relic too, and he already told some other members about us and our plans. They're already on their way which means we'll be walking into a trap. And yeah it's good that we know we'll be walking into an ambush since we can prepare but once they find him they'll know we know and make a second ambush or something like that."  He starts searching the man.  "Either way, we've got to tell surkil." 
aReallyGreatAxe
Scholar briskly crosses the remaining distance and looks down at the corpse impassively.  "Well, I assume he told you what you needed to know. We should probably be on our way, this is hardly a private location." 
CWater
 "Yeah, don't want to get in trouble with the guards here. Don't know why they would care about this random dude, but you can never be too careful. They could use this as an excuse to take our things at least. So let's disappear." 
Kish
You pull the corpse on Adrianna's horse, getting blood on the dock, the horse, and Adrianna, and head back to the ship. The sailor who brought you to Sur'kil's cabin before looks surprised to see you again and shocked by the corpse.   "Sur'kil didn't say to expect you back,"   he says, staring at the corpse.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You pull the corpse on Adrianna's horse, getting blood on the dock, the horse, and Adrianna, and head back to the ship. The sailor who brought you to Sur'kil's cabin before looks surprised to see you again and shocked by the corpse.   "Sur'kil didn't say to expect you back,"   he says, staring at the corpse. 
 

 "There was an unforeseen situation. Can we see him again?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "It's kinda urgent,"  Soren says, shifting his weight so the spy's blood drips on the floor instead of his scarf.
CWater
 "In case this little scene didn't already tell you that",  Kaarna adds smiling darkly,  "So how about it?" 
Kish
  "Right..."   He looks up from the corpse briefly to tell Soren,   "I don't know what's going on here that gets people killed in the dock, but I know he and his daughter left just after you did. Didn't say anything about what to do if you showed up with bodies."  
Silverraptor
 "They just left how?" 
Adrianna looks down at the guard confused.
 "If it was by foot or transportation, they couldn't have gotten far. If it was by teleportation, that might be a bit more problematic." 
She looks around at the rest of the group.
 "Who has the sending stone?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
   "Right..."   He looks up from the corpse briefly to tell Soren,   "I don't know what's going on here that gets people killed in the dock, but I know he and his daughter left just after you did. Didn't say anything about what to do if you showed up with bodies."   
 

 "Spies happened, but I'm not the one who killed them. And great--how did they leave?" 

Soren turns to Adrianne.  "I have one." 
Kish
  "How did they leave?"   He sounds confused.   "Only one way off the ship, 'less you want to go for a swim..."  
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
   "How did they leave?"   He sounds confused.   "Only one way off the ship, 'less you want to go for a swim..."   
 

 "There's always magic, you know",  Kaarna adds, playing with a spark that jumps around her fingers.

 "But yeah, you gonna Send to them, do it soon ok?",  this she says to Adrianna.
Silverraptor
 "Unless Soren wants to. He does have the sending stone." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Unless Soren wants to. He does have the sending stone."  
 

 "Oh! Uh, yeah, hang on."  Soren steps into a private room, waving his friends and allies over. He then looks around. If the area is clear he takes out the sending stone and whispers into it,  "Caught and killed Emerald Claw spy. Knows and told our plan, your decoy. Claw going to mansion now. Will beat us there. What plan now?" 
 
 Spoiler: Sorry about the wait 
I was working on my research project. I submitted the poster today--the conference starts tomorrow night!
 
Kish
A few minutes pass...then a few more. While the sending stone appears to have delivered its message, it becomes increasingly apparent that no reply is forthcoming soon.
CoffeeIncluded
Soren scowls and shoves the stone back into his pocket with angry force.  "****ing dammit...we're on our own, guys." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna sighs.
 "Well. Do we have any way of teleporting to where we need to go, or anything like that?" 
CWater
 "We can think about that later, right now we need to dump this corpse and go before someone takes interest!" 
Kish
The sailor looks more than a little alarmed by the talk of dumping the corpse.
Athedia
Xan put her hand on the man's shoulder and spoke gently.  "He was a very bad man.  Part of a group that isn't happy the war is over. We want to try to protect this ship from the wrath of those he reports too."   
aReallyGreatAxe
 "Aside from his companions, I doubt you'd like to explain to the authorities how a dead man got himself on board your ship. They can be quite difficult to reason with on occasion, no matter your innocence."   Scholar nods, as if convincing herself.
 "A clean disposal is the best option." 
CWater
 "Yeah, best do it quick and silent. Now, can we  go? "  Kaarna is starting to look a little impatient.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Xan has the right of it. I promise, we weren't looking for violence."  he turns to his partners  "Either way, we should hurry 
 
 Spoiler: sorry about that 
Im finally (nearly) done unpacking! My box spring hasn't come in so I can't put up the posters yet either since I need to set them up around my final bed height and I still need to clean up and stuff but the worst of it is now done! So hopefully I'll be on a bit more.

Anyway I'm also ready to go. Do you want a diplomacy check from Soren?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren pauses.  "I don't suppose you know where we could leave him?"  he asks the man, indicating the corpse.

 
 Spoiler: Diplomacy 
 (d20+13)[ 27 ] 
 
Kish
  "I--you--how would I know that?"   He sputters and shakes his head.

After a minute, he says,   "I...guess you can leave it here. If you're sure he won't disapprove of this, I won't get involved."   He looks like he regrets what he's saying even as he says it.
CWater
 "Excellent! I'm sure he won't mind the least, none if us wants to attract attention here",  Kaarna claps the sailor's shoulder,  "Now, I say we should leave town immediately. Don't care to run into more trouble here. Although, were we going by land or ship from here? If the former, then I guess we should fetch the horses first." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
   "I--you--how would I know that?"   He sputters and shakes his head.

After a minute, he says,   "I...guess you can leave it here. If you're sure he won't disapprove of this, I won't get involved."   He looks like he regrets what he's saying even as he says it. 
 

Soren grins, breathing a sigh of relief as he does so.  "Thanks, and don't worry, he wouldn't. Frankly if surkil knew he was spying on us he probably would have done it himself."  That is what dragons do, right? From what he's heard you really really REALLY don't want to cross Dragons.

He turns to Kaarna, then back to the man.  "Which way is faster? We need to stop the people he reported to before they do any more damage." 
Kish
You hurry down the docks to the ship Sur'kil named, the Geyser.

 "Who goes there?"  shouts the apparent guard, followed by,  "Oh--you're the ones he described. You want to sail now?"  She sounds surprised by your wanting to sail at night, but not as surprised as you might expect.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You hurry down the docks to the ship Sur'kil named, the Geyser.

 "Who goes there?"  shouts the apparent guard, followed by,  "Oh--you're the ones he described. You want to sail now?"  She sounds surprised by your wanting to sail at night, but not as surprised as you might expect. 
 

 "Yes! As soon as we... can..."  Kaarna glares at the ship glumly.   "I hate boats. And this damn poison water",   she mutters to herself.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Yes! As soon as we... can..."  Kaarna glares at the ship glumly.   "I hate boats. And this damn poison water",   she mutters to herself. 
 

 "The sooner we begin, the sooner it will be over,"  Scholar says with a touch of amusement at Kaarna's obvious dismay.  "We will be in the Lhazaar Principalities soon, and then you can complain all you wish about the ride back." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You hurry down the docks to the ship Sur'kil named, the Geyser.

 "Who goes there?"  shouts the apparent guard, followed by,  "Oh--you're the ones he described. You want to sail now?"  She sounds surprised by your wanting to sail at night, but not as surprised as you might expect. 
 

 "Yeah, it's kind of an emergency. How fast can you go?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Yes! As soon as we... can..."  Kaarna glares at the ship glumly.   "I hate boats. And this damn poison water",   she mutters to herself. 
 

 "Poison water?"  Soren looks at Kaarna with curiosity.  "Why do you call it that? I mean, yeah, there's seasickness but fish and stuff live in the ocean so it can't be poison." 

 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
  "The sooner we begin, the sooner it will be over,"  Scholar says with a touch of amusement at Kaarna's obvious dismay.  "We will be in the Lhazaar Principalities soon, and then you can complain all you wish about the ride back."  
 

 "That's the spirit!"  Soren says with great cheer, slapping Scholar on the back.

Still, the memories of spending half the voyage with his front or rear (and in one horrible case, both) end bent over the rail does stick in Soren'a mind. Only the knowledge that Kaarna is watching him and that he has to put on a smile keeps him from turning a minor hesitation into a major one as he boards the ship.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by aReallyGreatAxe 
  "The sooner we begin, the sooner it will be over,"  Scholar says with a touch of amusement at Kaarna's obvious dismay.  "We will be in the Lhazaar Principalities soon, and then you can complain all you wish about the ride back."  
 

 "Bah!",  is Kaarna's reply, implying that she considers this a small consolation.


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Poison water?"  Soren looks at Kaarna with curiosity.  "Why do you call it that? I mean, yeah, there's seasickness but fish and stuff live in the ocean so it can't be poison."  
 

 "It tastes awful, you can't drink it and you get sick if you try.  And  it hurts if it gets into your eyes. Sounds enough like poison to me. Don't understand what's the damn point of it." 

  "That's the spirit!"  Soren says with great cheer, slapping Scholar on the back.

Still, the memories of spending half the voyage with his front or rear (and in one horrible case, both) end bent over the rail does stick in Soren'a mind. Only the knowledge that Kaarna is watching him and that he has to put on a smile keeps him from turning a minor hesitation into a major one as he boards the ship. 

 "Yeah, sure",  the shifter grunts,  "Find me when thus torture trip is over."  She walks away looking for a nice small dark corner where she plans to hole up until they can return to solid ground.
Athedia
Xan gripped the railing carefully getting to a spot where she would have access to a porthole, but wouldn't be underfoot.
Kish
The guard leads you to the ship's captain.  "Sur'kil said we should take you wherever you wanted whenever you wanted, and that you might want to leave at night, but I confess I'm curious about what's going on here,"  he tells you.  "Sur'kil's reputation aside, if this involves piracy I'm not charging enough. He said you'd probably want to go to the Lhazaar Principalities, but that I should take you wherever you wanted; is the Lhazaar Principalities still the destination?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The guard leads you to the ship's captain.  "Sur'kil said we should take you wherever you wanted whenever you wanted, and that you might want to leave at night, but I confess I'm curious about what's going on here,"  he tells you.  "Sur'kil's reputation aside, if this involves piracy I'm not charging enough. He said you'd probably want to go to the Lhazaar Principalities, but that I should take you wherever you wanted; is the Lhazaar Principalities still the destination?"  
 

 "It is.  And post haste.  We aren't kidding if we refer to this as having lives at stake."  Xan didn't mention the lives were their own.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The guard leads you to the ship's captain.  "Sur'kil said we should take you wherever you wanted whenever you wanted, and that you might want to leave at night, but I confess I'm curious about what's going on here,"  he tells you.  "Sur'kil's reputation aside, if this involves piracy I'm not charging enough. He said you'd probably want to go to the Lhazaar Principalities, but that I should take you wherever you wanted; is the Lhazaar Principalities still the destination?"  
 

Soren shakes his head.  "It's not piracy. In fact we're trying to stop pirates, and worse. We're still heading to the Principalities, but we need to get there as fast as possible. How fast can you get there?" 
Kish
 "Probably about two weeks. I'll tell them to start immediately."  He looks at each of you curiously before moving to give the order to sail. As the captain suggested, the crew seems prepared to be asked to leave at night.
Silverraptor
Adrianna quickly throws her stuff in her room and then see's if anyone else needs help getting everything on the ship quickly as an attempt to try and make it move quicker.
Kish
The galleon makes steady progress. Thirteen days later, it makes anchor at a deserted beach and one of the sailors brings you to the captain.  "The mansion is fifteen minutes' walk that way,"  the captain says, pointing.  "Whether they saw us coming..."  he shrugs dubiously.  "Make sure you remember where the ship is moored. How long are you going to be?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren runs out of the cabin where he spent most of the trip quelling his stomach (when he wasn't flirting with some of the sailors or teasing Kaarna) and all but kisses the solid ground beneath his feet. He gets up, nearly shameless, and says,  "Hopefully not more than a few days, right guys?"  he looks up at the manor and swallows, knowing what's inside.  "You might want to make yourself scarce. I don't want anyone to trace us back to you and get you hurt." 
 
 Spoiler: sorry! 
Sorry I didn't post! I went on vacation the past week and a half and I thought 2nd year started today when it actually started yesterday! I'll do what o can to stay on though! How's everyone?
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Scholar looks at the party curiously.  "Since they may well have seen us coming, that rules out any stealthy approach, unless we're willing to leave things in the hands of the spy. What's our plan?" 
Kish
The captain grimaces.  "More specifically, how long should we wait for you to come back before we go report to Mr. Ranprin that you're dead?" 
Athedia
Xan eyed the building.   "If we aren't on this beach by the third sunset report us as dead.  We can make our own way back if we turn out to be alive." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren glares at Xan with a hint of fear.  "Don't put the whammy on it,"  he hisses before turning back to the crew and says, [COLOR="#FF0000""We'll, uh, try to get an update to you before that. An illusion from me if nothing else. If you guys get into trouble then run for it but give us a heads up."[/COLOR]

He looks back at the mansion.  "So, they know, we know they know, they know we know they know, and we know they know we know they know,"  Soren says, his bardic training the one thing keeping the words from ending in a tangled lump with his tongue sticking impotently out of his mouth.  "So do we even try to sneak in?" 
Silverraptor
 "We can't really sneak. It'll cost time. We can't afford to lose any time, especially after rushing here so fast." 
CWater
 "Let's just GO!",  Kaarna groans, she hasn't been seen much during the voyage and her mood has been terrible the entire time,  "I want away from this mad thing. And I'll be happy to blast a few idiots who try to stand in the way." 
Kish
You leave the ship behind and head toward the mansion. As you approach it, but before you're close enough to be seen with the unaided eye by anyone inside, it becomes obvious that at least part of the mansion is on fire.

 
 Spoiler 

Before I can post more, I need to know more about what you're doing; I don't want to assume for you that you're strolling up to the front door.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna groans at the sight, before turning back towards the rest of the group from on top of her horse.
 "Come on! We have to hurry!" 

She prepares to quicken the pace and hurry to the mansion, but not before the rest of the group follows suit, or raises any objections.
CWater
Kaarna stops to summon herself armor from the wand, but then she follows Adrianna.  "Good. I want to hurt something." 
 
 Spoiler 
Casting Mage Armor from wand, charges left 45/50.

I also updated Kaarna's spells for the day.
 
CoffeeIncluded
D "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!"  Soren stares agog at the inferno.  "Is there anybody going to help? A fire department? A bucket brigade? Something? Vol's breath!"  he curses as he makes himself invisible and dashes towards the blaze.

 
 Spoiler: kish 
is a fire department responding?

Also I just had my first exam of second year!
 
Kish
As Adrianna rides up to the burning mansion, eight figures in studded leather armor and all-too-familiar green-clawed tabards orient on her. Each carries a crossbow and each seems ready to swallow the contents of a flask.

  "Greetings, friends,"   a man in stylish green robes says from the top of the stairs.   "Apologies about the state of the place. You see, Vorgaard proved less hospitable than we would have liked. But he is old news, friends, and you are freshly arrived. Two paths lie before you now. One leads you back to your ship and safely away. The other ends with your corpses reduced to ashes in the inferno. No one will ever know your fate. Take the first path, friends. Place the Dragon's Eye on the ground before you and walk away."  
 
 Spoiler 

Xan can act before anyone else does; Soren and/or Scholar can act before any of the apparent arsonists act.  Map . The stairs lead up to a balcony; at the back of the balcony is an ajar set of double doors. The braziers are braziers and the pillars are pillars.
 
Athedia
 "Damned Cultists!"  Xan broke forward and the dull metal of the dagger in her hand clear she sprinted forward.  Stopping suddenly she used her momentum to hurl the dagger at the man in front of her before quickly muttering a word.  There was a quick glow from under her chainshirt as the shirt underneath activated, giving her the extra burst of speed needed to backtrack to safety, her shortswords now in her hands.  Now behind Adrianna she piped up again.   "New offer.  You all quietly die and we won't make this TOO painful." 
 
 Spoiler: IC to OOC 
Xan is moving up to Y21 and throwing the cold iron dagger.

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
Crit (19-20):  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (1d4)[ 3 ] 
SA:  (3d6)[ 3 ]  If it applies

Activating Quick Runner Shirt (swift action once per day) to get extra move action
Moving back to X25 and drawing weapons as part of move action
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 "Die quick as well as quiet,"  Scholar says, following it up with an aside in the language of magic.

 
 Spoiler 

Scholar has cast enlarge person on Adrianna.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Quiet's out, but we can do fast!"  Soren shouts as he throws his hands out and down. Suddenly a burst of glitter appears to fall on the Emerald claw operatives.

 
 Spoiler: sorens action 
Soren runs forward a bit and casts Glitterdust on as many people as possible. They're all clumped together; I can't pas this up!
 
Kish
Xan throws a dagger. The two soldiers in the back manage to blink the dust out of their eyes. As Adrianna grows to the size of an ogre, one of the blinded soldiers gulps the contents of his flask and runs toward her, dropping his crossbow and drawing a flail.
 
 Spoiler 

 Map  updated. Will resolve the results of Xan's dagger when I know who she threw it at, but it won't kill anyone in any event. Kaarna is up.

&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC8 Initiative: [13]
Leader Initiative: [12]
EC3 Initiative: [10]
EC7 Initiative: [10]
EC6 Initiative: [6]
EC2 Initiative: [6]
EC1 Initiative: [5]
Adrianna Initiative: [2]
EC4 Initiative: [1]
Xan Initiative: [24]
Scholar Initiative: [20]
Soren Initiative: [20]
EC5 Initiative: [17]
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Threw it at the one on X19
 
CWater
An evil grin rises to Kaarna's lips as she shifts her form and starts to weave a spell.  "I've learned a new trick, you get to be the first to try it!" 

Grass and other small plants near the mansion start growing rapidly into large ugly vines with sharp thorns and lunge to grab at the men standing on the stairs.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Shifting, then castinf  Thorny Entanglement.  It's like  Entangle , except that the vines can also attack. The vines have an attack bonus of +9 and do 2d6 damage to anyone who moves within their area. Anyone who moves into their area or ends their turn there automatically takes 2d6 damage. They can also do a ranged attack instead if someone comes within 15 ft. of them.

40 ft. radius spread, concentrated as close to the mansion as possible. If the doors are open, the centre point would be in W-X;12-13, but if the doors are closed, then just outside them.
 

 "Don't get too close!",  the witch shouts to her allies,  "They can also shoots those thorns! Get the bastards when they run out of it!" 
Kish
A mass of aggressive thorny vines spreads all around the entrance to the estate, quickly looking nearly as menacing as the fire that continues to consume the mansion. Nearly all the strangers near the mansion are entrapped in the vines. One manages to pull away; badly hurt by the vines, he nonetheless runs out of them toward you, drawing a flail. The man in green robes fumbles his way toward the left, moving surprisingly fast for a blind man, and gulps the contents of his flask; four of his companions (not including the one who emerges from the vines) do the same. The figure Xan threw the dagger at falls to the ground in the vines, and is likely to be dead very shortly.

 
 Spoiler 

Kaarna can make an attack roll for her vines against the robed speaker, then Adrianna is up.

&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
EC4 Initiative: [1]
Xan Initiative: [24]
Scholar Initiative: [20]
Soren Initiative: [20]
EC5 Initiative: [17]
Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC8 Initiative: [13]
Leader Initiative: [12]
EC3 Initiative: [10]
EC7 Initiative: [10]
EC6 Initiative: [6]
EC2 Initiative: [6]
EC1 Initiative: [5]
 
CWater
 
 Spoiler: Thorns 
Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (2d6)[ 12 ] 
 


The witch cackles almost manically as the enemies are trapped and bled.
Silverraptor
Adrianna steps forward, shielding the rest of the group from the opponents being able to charge the rest of the group. She attacks the nearest enemy at the furthest point from her newly extended reach.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
If I did this correctly...
Attack: (1d20+9)[ 26 ] 
Critical: (1d20+9)[ 26 ] 
Damage: (2d6+5)[ 11 ] 
 
Kish
Adrianna steps forward and slices deep into the blind man in front of her; as she does, the vines fire a volley of thorns at her. One of the soldiers in the vines fires a crossbow at Kaarna and then falls as the vines slash at her. With a savage roar, two hulking monstrosities appear out of nowhere, both 10 feet tall, wearing fine chain shirts, and halfway through swinging a massive greatsword; one slashes at Scholar, the other at Kaarna.

 
 Spoiler 

Vine attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  Critical threat:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ]  Damage:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
Crossbow attack on Kaarna:  (1d20+2)[ 5 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+2)[ 8 ]  Damage:  (1d8)[ 3 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8)[ 7 ] 
Greatsword attack on Scholar, ignoring Scholar's Dexterity bonus:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  Critical threat check, on 19 or 20:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ]  Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 17 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 20 ] 
Greatsword attack on Kaarna, ignoring Kaarna's Dexterity bonus:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  Critical threat check, on 19 or 20:  (1d20+9)[ 20 ]  Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 23 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 16 ] 
 Map  is updated. Xan, Scholar, and Soren are up.
&gt;&gt; Xan Initiative: [24]
&gt;&gt; Scholar Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Soren Initiative: [20]
EC5 Initiative: [17]
Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC8 Initiative: [13]
Leader Initiative: [12]
EC3 Initiative: [10]
EC7 Initiative: [10]
EC6 Initiative: [6]
EC2 Initiative: [6]
EC1 Initiative: [5]
Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Were they invisible?!"  Soren shouts as the ogres appear out of nowhere.  "Kaarna, you know anything about these ogres?"  he steps towards her and begins a chant that rises above and yet keeps in time with the crackling flames.

 
 Spoiler: Soren's actions  
5 foot step up next to Kaarna, draw his bow if he hasn't already, and start up Inspire Courage.

Inspire courage: +2 morale bonus to attack, damage, and saves against fear!
 
aReallyGreatAxe
 "Stop throwing things,"  Scholar chides, then mumbles a spell and gives Xan a gentle shove, as if to direct her to the more pressing enemies.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Standard Action:

Scholar is casting Bear's Endurance on Xan.
She gains +4 Constitution points for the spell's duration.

Move action: not taken.
 
Athedia
Xan looked up, then up some more at the ogre.  This would not be fun. But Choir Boy was chanting his heart out so... she better do something she is good at. She took a quick step forward, spinning her blades to stab them in simultaneously.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Attack1: (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Crit1: [roll]1d20+9
Damage1:  (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 

Attack2: (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Crit2: [roll]1d20+9
Damage2:  (1d6+5)[ 8 ] 
 
Kish
Xan's daggers both deflect off the creature's chain shirt.  "We'll smash you in a minute, mosquito,"  the creature rumbles, seeming amused. The blind soldier swings wildly with a flail at Adrianna, and then falls, skewered by a volley of thorns.

 
 Spoiler 

Flail attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+3)[ 10 ]  Critical threat:  (1d20+3)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 2 ]  Auto-miss if this is a 1:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
Kaarna is up.

&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC8 Initiative: [13]
Leader Initiative: [12]
EC3 Initiative: [10]
EC7 Initiative: [10]
EC6 Initiative: [6]
EC2 Initiative: [6]
EC1 Initiative: [5]
Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
Xan Initiative: [24]
Scholar Initiative: [20]
Soren Initiative: [20]
 
CWater
Kaarna screams when the greatsword cuts into her. She stumbles away from the huge creature.  " You ...",  she snarls and let's out a magically enhanced yell at the ogre.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
5 ft. step to W25.
Standard action: Casting   Trial of Fire and Acid   Ear-Piercing Scream on the enemy that struck her.

Fire:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
Acid:  (1d6)[ 4 ] 
 Repeats 5 more times to 6 in total. Fort save DC 16 to halve the damage, new check each round. 
 
Kish
Kaarna's scream makes the ogre wince. Four of the soldiers fire crossbows at Adrianna before falling. The green-robed speaker disappears around the burning building to the northwest. The last soldier steps forward and swings his flail at Kaarna.
 
 Spoiler 

Fortitude save:  (1d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Crossbow attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+2)[ 22 ]  Damage:  (1d8)[ 4 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8)[ 3 ] 
Crossbow attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+2)[ 6 ]  Damage:  (1d8)[ 8 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8)[ 4 ] 
Crossbow attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+2)[ 12 ]  Damage:  (1d8)[ 7 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8)[ 1 ] 
Crossbow attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+2)[ 15 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+2)[ 8 ]  Damage:  (1d8)[ 2 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8)[ 3 ] 
Flail attack on Kaarna:  (1d20+3)[ 4 ]  Critical threat:  (1d20+3)[ 17 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 

&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
Xan Initiative: [24]
Scholar Initiative: [20]
Soren Initiative: [20]
Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC1 Initiative: [5]

Adrianna is up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna goes for the Ogre closet to her after making sure no vines are close enough to hit her back.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack: (1d20+9)[ 29 ] 
Critical: (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Damage: (2d6+5)[ 14 ] 
 
Kish
Adrianna's sword cuts into the ogre, even as the vines fire another barrage of thorns at her. The ogre's wound immediately begins to heal rapidly. Both ogres slash at Scholar.

 
 Spoiler 

Vine attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ]  Critical threat:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ]  Damage:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6)[ 7 ] 
Greatsword attack on Scholar:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  Critical threat check, on 19 or 20:  (1d20+9)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 21 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 17 ] 
Greatsword attack on Scholar:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  Critical threat check, on 19 or 20:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 23 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 15 ] 

&gt;&gt; Xan Initiative: [24]
&gt;&gt; Scholar Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Soren Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
EC1 Initiative: [5]
Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]

If your current hit points aren't on your character sheet, please correct that; my NPCs may act differently in various ways depending on your condition. Xan, Scholar, Soren, and Kaarna are up.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Both ogres easily hit Scholar, leaving her visibly battered. She attempts to cast yet another spell, and steps a bit closer to Soren.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

 Standard Action: 

Concentration check to cast defensively:
 (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  (CL 3+4 for Combat Casting feat+Wis bonus 4=+11)
If this fails to reach a DC of 17, the spell below is wasted.

Casting spell: Sanctuary
Target: Scholar

Effect: Enemies must make a will save, DC 15, in order to directly attack Scholar. This does not apply to area of effect spells and such.

 Move action :
None (Let's not provoke attacks of opportunity)

 Five foot step: 
 to W27

HP: 4/48
 
CWater
 "What, you're still alive?",  Kaarna turns to face the soldier who clumsily tried to hit her,  "Don't worry, I can fix that!"  She removes a bead from her necklace and sends it flying. Soon after the bead explodes into a merciless inferno. The witch laughs as the flames go up right in front of her (and her allies).

 
 Spoiler 
Standard action:  Fireball from necklace , 20 ft. radius centre in S-T, 28-29. This should  not  hit anyone in the party, but hits the last soldier and the left ogre.

Damage:  (6d6)[ 21 ] , Ref save DC 14 to halve.

I'm not sure if using a magic item of this kind draws an AoO from the soldier or not, but even if it does, Kaarna still throws the fireball.

Move action: Kaarna draws a kunai. (No AoO.)
 
CoffeeIncluded
The awful sounds of the ogres bartering Scholar's armor and the explosion of the fireball and the roar of the flames and the shouts of battle mix together into one horrible cacophony. Soren raises his voice even more, his throat straining at the efforts of keeping himself heard. He steps back, sheltered between Kaarna and Adrianna as he splays his fingers out and sends another shower of glitter down onto the ogre that Xan is currently facing.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
first Soren keeps the inspire courage going.

Then he 5 foot steps to X25. He doesn't need to cast defensively then, does he? If he still does I'll change this action.

Finally he casts Glitterdust on the ogre on the right that Xan is fighting.
 
Kish
The left ogre avoids the worst of the fireball blast, but the wounded soldier falls to the ground. The right ogre shrugs off the glitterdust with a dismissive snort. The vines fire another volley of thorns at Adrianna.

 
 Spoiler 

Vine attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ]  Critical threat:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
 Map  is updated; Adrianna is up.

&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
Xan Initiative: [24]
Scholar Initiative: [20]
Soren Initiative: [20]
Kaarna Initiative: [15]
 
Athedia
Xan winced at the crunch of Scholar's armor (or was it skin) being crushed under the ogre's blows.  Adrianna had been having her practice her visualization exercises and she pictured a thin, pale mousy woman being crushed within the all encompassing outfit.  "STOP HURTING SCHOLAR!"   She stabbed at the ogre again.

 
 Spoiler 
5 foot step to Y27

51/51 HP
Two Weapon Fighting (-2 to attack, extra attack), +2 attack and damage (Inspire Courage)

Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Crit 1:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage 1:  (1d6+5)[ 9 ]  Should be  11  forgot to add the damage bonus from Inspire Courage

Attack 2:  (1d20+9)[ 29 ] 
Crit 2:  (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
Damage 2:  (1d6+5)[ 7 ]  should be  9  forgot to add the damage bonus from Inspire Courage
 
Kish
Xan's stabs cut into the ogre.

 
 Spoiler 

Yes, the crit did confirm. And now Adrianna is really up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna shifts further to be out of range of the vines and attacks the Ogre again.

 
 Spoiler 
Because I'm an idiot and forgot I could full attack for the past couple turns, I'm going to start now...
Attack 1: (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Critical 1: (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage: (2d6+6)[ 11 ] 

Attack 2: (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Critical 2: (1d20+4)[ 10 ] 
Damage: (2d6+6)[ 11 ] 
 
Kish
Adrianna's slashes bounce off the ogre's chain shirt. Both ogres say something in a language that only Xan understands.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Can't get to the casters," 
 
 the righthand one says.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "The tincan and the mosquito are in the way." 
 

 
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Invisibility, then," 
 
 the lefthand ogre replies.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Finish off the buffer when we can and the blaster second." 
 


The righthand ogre suddenly turns into a glittery outline.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Too many godsdamned casters," 
 
 the ogre complains, stepping south. The lefthand one charges up to Kaarna and Soren and slashes at Kaarna.

 
 Spoiler 

The ogre's movement does provoke an attack of opportunity from Scholar, if Scholar wants to take it; if she does, the attack is aimed at her, not at Kaarna.

Attack on Kaarna:  (1d20+11)[ 18 ]  Critical threat, on 19 or 20:  (1d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 13 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 13 ] 
 


Before Xan can react, she feels an odd burning sensation on her chest...at the dragonmark. It increases, and suddenly fades away, leaving her feeling slightly drained. The ogre blinks.
 
 Spoiler 

&gt;&gt; Scholar Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Soren Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
Xan Initiative: [24]

Scholar, Soren, Kaarna, and Adrianna are up; Xan would be, but cannot act on her turn this round, though she can still speak freely.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Adrianna's slashes bounce off the ogre's chain shirt. Both ogres say something in a language that only Xan understands.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Can't get to the casters," 
 
 the righthand one says.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "The tincan and the mosquito are in the way." 
 

 
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Invisibility, then," 
 
 the lefthand ogre replies.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Finish off the buffer when we can and the blaster second." 
 


The righthand ogre suddenly disappears. The lefthand one charges up to Kaarna and Soren and slashes at Kaarna.

 
 Spoiler 

The ogre's movement does provoke an attack of opportunity from Scholar, if Scholar wants to take it; if she does, the attack is aimed at her, not at Kaarna.

Attack on Kaarna: [roll0] Critical threat, on 19 or 20: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2] Critical damage: [roll3]
 


Before Xan can react, she feels an odd burning sensation on her chest...at the dragonmark. It increases, and suddenly fades away, leaving her feeling slightly drained. The ogre blinks.
 
 Spoiler 

&gt;&gt; Scholar Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Soren Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]
Xan Initiative: [24]

Scholar, Soren, Kaarna, and Adrianna are up; Xan would be, but cannot act on her turn this round, though she can still speak freely.
 
 
 

Xan gasped and put her hand over the mark on her skin, managing to get even paler.  Her eyes were wide and she was in shock but managed to relate the ogres words.   "They are going after the buffer and blaster! Going after casters first!" 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren widens his eyes, first stunned by Xan's sudden impassioned defense of Scholar, then by her warning. He ducks behind Kaarna and quickly spreads his hands outwards like they're skidding against nothing. A puddle of slick grease appears below the feet of the ogre next to him, and he shouts,  "Your leader is dead! There's no point in fighting!" 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Soren 5 foot steps to W24 and casts Grease on the ogre that is next to him. DC 15 reflex save, and he also continues his song.

Should I try a diplomacy check?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Acrobatics check to move out of range:  (d20+13)[ 30 ] 
aReallyGreatAxe
Scholar freezes for an instant at Xan's perplexing outburst, only to spring into action again at her translation. Now was not the time to dwell on such matters.

She briefly flickers out of reality, reappearing and stepping back so the ogre would need to come to her if he really wanted to attack.
Now, safely out of range, Scholar calls a sparkling ray of light and flings it at the ogre.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

HP: 4/48
Okay, this is a bit of a complicated one, so there will be a note for if this course of action is disallowed.

1.) Swift action- Activate Anklet of Translocation.
Effect: Teleport 10' to W29

2.) Five foot step to W30
Effect: Out of both ogres' threat range- if not, please let me know

3.) Standard action: Use the bonded ring to cast Ray of Enfeeblement on the left ogre
Effect:
Ranged Touch Attack:  (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  (The +4 is from her base attack bonus)

If the above attack hits, it takes a penalty to strength.
Penalty:  (1d6+2)[ 6 ] 

A fortitude save, DC 15, will reduce the strength penalty by half.

The duration is three rounds

 
 Spoiler: If one cannot take a five foot step and a swift action 


1.) Swift action- Activate Anklet of Translocation.
Effect: Teleport 10' to W29 (Still in threat range of left ogre)

2.) Standard action: Defensively cast Shield of Faith

Spellcraft to cast defensively:  (1d20+11)[ 14 ]  vs DC 17

Shield of faith effect: +2 deflection bonus to AC, target: Self
Duration: 3 minutes
 

 
CWater
 "I think these have outlived their use",  Kaarna extends a hand towards the vines and speaks a word. Magic leaves the plants and they fall down and wither. Then she takes a step away from the ogre.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Dismissing the vines, standard action that doesn't provoke AoOs.

5 ft. step to W24.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna grunts in frustration as she swings her sword again.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack 1: (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Critical 1: (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Damage: (2d6+6)[ 14 ] 

Attack 2: (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Critical 2: (1d20+4)[ 7 ] 
Damage: (2d6+6)[ 13 ] 
 
Kish
Adrianna's sword cuts into the mostly-invisible ogre once.  "Grah"  the left ogre says, rising a foot into the air and slashing ferociously at Kaarna.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "I can't see! Who's the noisy one saying he killed?" 
 

 
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Don't know. Probably not important. If the blindness doesn't wear off we'll find a way to fix it after they're dead. 
 
  Time to bleed, mosquito!"  the righthand ogre says, taking a step to the south and slashing out at Xan. As he pops into vision, it's clear that he's fairly badly wounded, but also his wounds seem to be closing before your eyes.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack on Kaarna:  (1d20+10)[ 17 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+10)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (3d6+6)[ 18 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+6)[ 20 ]  Miss chance, the entire attack is negated if this is a 1:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
Attack on Xan:  (1d20+11)[ 20 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 15 ]  Critical damage:  (3d6+7)[ 14 ] 

&gt;&gt; Xan Initiative: [24]
&gt;&gt; Scholar Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Soren Initiative: [20]
&gt;&gt; Kaarna Initiative: [15]
&gt;&gt; Adrianna Initiative: [2]
Ogre 1 Initiative: [25]
Ogre 2 Initiative: [25]

 Map  is updated and you're all up again.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Adrianna's sword cuts into the mostly-invisible ogre once.  "Grah"  the left ogre says, rising a foot into the air and slashing ferociously at Kaarna.  
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "I can't see! Who's the noisy one saying he killed?" 
 

 
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Don't know. Probably not important. If the blindness doesn't wear off we'll find a way to fix it after they're dead. 
 
  Time to bleed, mosquito!"  the righthand ogre says, taking a step to the south and slashing out at Xan. As he pops into vision, it's clear that he's fairly badly wounded, but also his wounds seem to be closing before your eyes.

[spoiler] 
 

Xan was distracted by the odd sensation so much that she didn't manage to avoid the sword as it sliced at her arm. She gripped her swords again, back in the moment.  As she swung down she was able to note that the cut arm was a lot weaker than her uninjured arm.

 
 Spoiler: Giant 
 "Your LEADER is dead! And I am  not a mosquito! " 
 

 
 Spoiler: Attack Z28 
Five foot step to Y28, attacking Z28
Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Crit Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
Crit Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 7 ] 
 
CWater
Kaarna ducks under the ogre's swing and takes a step back, a new spell already on her lips.  "Just leave off already!"  A thundercloud appears over the ogre that attacked her.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
5 ft. step to X23.
Casting  Aggressive Thundercloud  on U27.
Damage:  (3d6)[ 13 ] 
Ref save DC 15 negates.
 
aReallyGreatAxe
Scholar steps back and punches the air in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 


1.) move action: 10' back from the left ogre (maps don't work on my phone, I'll update movement when I have access.)

2.) standard action: telikenetic first to attack the right ogre. (1/7 used)

Attack:  (1d20+3)[ 22 ]  ranged touch attack (unsure if Soren's bonus applies)
Damage:  (1d4+1)[ 4 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "We warned you!"  Soren says as he taps the side of his head. It could be an illusion, but it seems as though some feathers sprout from the sides of his face, framing his eyes. He takes his bow and fires at the more wounded ogre.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

I'm sorry, I missed that Soren was up! I can't edit the map right now but he continues the song, activates his bracers, moves if necessary, and fires his bow at the more wounded ogre.

Attack:  (d20+11)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Damage:  (d6+6)[ 10 ] 
Silverraptor
Adrianna swings her sword again at the Ogre standing over Xan.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
I'm adding in Soren's bonus I had been forgetting about all this time.😳

Attack 1: (1d20+11)[ 23 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+11)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+8)[ 13 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d6+8)[ 18 ] 
 
Kish
Soren's arrow bounces off the ogre's armor. Xan strikes once, Adrianna hits twice, slicing deep into the ogre, who looks wounded, and Scholar punches him. The ogre's wounds heal slightly, but he looks badly hurt.  "Gragh. Truce!"  he shouts.  "We'll disengage and leave in peace. If that's not acceptable, then we'll make sure at least one of you dies, and isn't in any condition to be resurrected. Krusk, the buffer is ten feet to your south, looking like a stiff wind will break her. Deal?"  The badly wounded ogre raises his sword over Xan, but doesn't strike yet; the blind but only lightly wounded one, following the wounded one's implied suggestion, takes a step south, his sword menacing Scholar.
CoffeeIncluded
Soren pauses, licking his lips as he trains his bow on the ogre menacing Scholar.  "If you're telling the truth, yes we have a deal. We don't have any quarrel with you. What happened in the manor?" 
 
 Spoiler: Sense motive 
To make sure he's not lying.  (d20+13)[ 24 ] 
 
CWater
 "You better  run  then",  Kaarna snarls,  "if  you  don't want to die here."

"But I won't chase you if you go now",  she adds.

 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
 (1d20+4)[ 20 ] 
 
Kish
When you don't attack, the one who spoke most recently moves carefully to the south, transferring his greatsword to one hand and grabbing the other one's hand. They both fly away to the south, leaving you alone with a number of corpses surrounding the mansion; the fire continues to burn.

 
 Spoiler 

1440 XP each.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna looks around quickly to everyone.
 "Is everyone alright?! Does anyone need help?!" 
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna looks around quickly to everyone.
 "Is everyone alright?! Does anyone need help?!"  
 

 "I've been better, but that fire doesn't look like it's slowing down. If we aren't quick, anything and anyone inside will be ash."  Scholar observes, pressing a hand against the torn metal of her side. It heals a little, but she's still in nowhere near good shape.

 
 Spoiler: Artificer's touch 

Mainly using this so I don't forget she has it. Plus healing, not dying is good.
Mending:  (1d4)[ 4 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 When you don't attack, the one who spoke most recently moves carefully to the south, transferring his greatsword to one hand and grabbing the other one's hand. They both fly away to the south, leaving you alone with a number of corpses surrounding the mansion; the fire continues to burn.

 
 Spoiler 

1440 XP each.
 
 
 

Xan watched the ogre's fly off, a puzzled look on her face.   "That was... strange."   She put her hand over her mark again, even though it had lost the heat from before.   "Did anyone see what I did?  What caused the activation I mean... or what the activation did?"   She looked over at the slash running down her arm.   "And... I think I might need a little help." 
CWater
Kaarna spits on the ground in the giants' direction.  "Good riddance, cowards",  she mutters.

To Xan she says,  "Don't know about your mark, wasn't watching you every second." 

She takes a wand out of her pocket and casts a couple of healing spells from it on herself.

 
 Spoiler: CLW wand 
 (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
 (1d8+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna spits on the ground in the giants' direction.  "Good riddance, cowards",  she mutters.

To Xan she says,  "Don't know about your mark, wasn't watching you every second." 

She takes a wand out of her pocket and casts a couple of healing spells from it on herself.

 
 Spoiler: CLW wand 
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

Xan closed her eyes with a huff of impatience.   "They would have killed Scholar and probably either you or me. We are lucky Soren got them to run." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan watched the ogre's fly off, a puzzled look on her face.   "That was... strange."   She put her hand over her mark again, even though it had lost the heat from before.   "Did anyone see what I did?  What caused the activation I mean... or what the activation did?"   She looked over at the slash running down her arm.   "And... I think I might need a little help."  
 

Soren sighs in relief and lets some of the tension drain and the song fade, though the fire crackling before him keeps that urgency in his speech and steps.

 "No, I didn't see anything. I mean, maybe you hit him really hard?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna spits on the ground in the giants' direction.  "Good riddance, cowards",  she mutters.

To Xan she says,  "Don't know about your mark, wasn't watching you every second." 

She takes a wand out of her pocket and casts a couple of healing spells from it on herself.

 
 Spoiler: CLW wand 
[roll0]
[roll1]
 
 
 

Soren reaches for his magic but when the cooling glow emanate from his fingers Kaarna is already there, healing Xan with her wand. He lets his hand drop and asks,  "Are you ok?"  He turns to Scholar.  "What about you? Would my healing spells work on you? I mean, you are made of wood and metal..." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan closed her eyes with a huff of impatience.   "They would have killed Scholar and probably either you or me. We are lucky Soren got them to run."  
 

 "Hey, that's what I'm here for!"  He turns back to the burning manor.  "We should, uh, probably do something about that?" 
Silverraptor
 "Yeah, if you are all alright and healing here, I'll go see if there is anyone, or anything still left alive and intact in there." 
She then hurries off to the manor and inspects it for a possible safe way of entering.
Kish
The front door, no longer guarded by any living enemies, looks as safe as running  into  a burning building could ever be. Adrianna does notice that while the bodies seem more or less evenly split between male and female soldiers in Emerald Claw uniforms, the robed man who spoke to you is not there.
aReallyGreatAxe
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren reaches for his magic but when the cooling glow emanate from his fingers Kaarna is already there, healing Xan with her wand. He lets his hand drop and asks,  "Are you ok?"  He turns to Scholar.  "What about you? Would my healing spells work on you? I mean, you are made of wood and metal..."  
 

 "With limited effectiveness,"  Scholar replies.  "But I can help everyone in this case, not just myself."
 
 
 Spoiler: Channel Energy 

Scholar is going to do this twice, as I think the majority of the party is rather battered.
It's  2d6, as she channels as a 3rd level cleric. Uses per day= 3+Cha=3, one remaining.

1.)  (2d6)[ 3 ] 
2.)  (2d6)[ 8 ] 

So 11hp to everyone else, 5hp to Scholar. How's everyone doing HPwise?
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna first runs to the door as safe as she possibly can and yells in.
 "Is anyone still alive in there?! Anyone at all?!" 
Kish
The only response to Adrianna's yell is the smashing sound of overstressed glass giving way to the heat on an upper floor.
Silverraptor
Adrianna pulls out a rag and soaks it with water from her water skin and puts it over her mouth.
 "Well, I think I have enough healing left to do a quick search." 
She hurries in to do a quick search in the mansion

 
 Spoiler 
Did Adrianna get his from the healing wave ability just cast?
 
Athedia
Xan looked surprised as the wound closed up.  She stared at Scholar for a second before focusing on Adrianna.   "No! Wait! Don't go... and she went in."  She looked rather annoyed.   "Well I don't plan to run in there, the diary is probably taken, destroyed or in the middle of that inferno.  Unless someone else has a solution, I suggest we cut our losses here." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren reaches out to Adrianna, his mouth open uselessly as she runs in. He raises his hand to his mouth, holds up a finger, closes his mouth, opens it to speak, closes it, then turns around and opens it again.

 "Maybe they have it in a lockbox or something?"  Soren asks hopelessly.  "I wish I knew pyrotechnics...then I could put out the fire and look awesome doing it."  He looks at the fire then back at Xan.  "Xan, when we met you you actually were a guy with real guy bits and everything, right? Can you, well, uh, turn into something fire resistant or fireproof, like a tiefling or something, and actually be fireproof?" 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
The front doors part to reveal a stately interior hall some 40 feet high. Six enormous marble columns bear the visages of what appear to be hobgoblin kings, presumably from the Dhakaani Empire. Tapestries hanging from the ceilings depict idyllic meadows and blood-soaked battlefields. What is likely the most recent addition to Vorgaard's collection is a chilling rendering of a frozen field of corpses in the Mournland.

On the floor beneath the Mournland landscape lie two men in stewards' livery. One is badly bludgeoned, and a crossbow bolt sprouts from the other's neck like a sapling.

Tall stained-glass windows line the walls. Those facing the west wing of the house reflect the red glow of the blazing fires raging there.

Interior doors set in the opposite wall from the entryway lead farther into the estate.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren reaches out to Adrianna, his mouth open uselessly as she runs in. He raises his hand to his mouth, holds up a finger, closes his mouth, opens it to speak, closes it, then turns around and opens it again.

 "Maybe they have it in a lockbox or something?"  Soren asks hopelessly.  "I wish I knew pyrotechnics...then I could put out the fire and look awesome doing it."  He looks at the fire then back at Xan.  "Xan, when we met you you actually were a guy with real guy bits and everything, right? Can you, well, uh, turn into something fire resistant or fireproof, like a tiefling or something, and actually be fireproof?"  
 

Xan's face pinched in annoyance.   "I was still me you know. Ahg, you probably don't, being stuck in one body.  I had a male body, but I was still female okay.  It feels... off.  But we can discuss that later. And no, I mean I can usually adopt the perceptive abilities, like darksight or enhanced scent, but not really beyond that."   She looked at the door where Adrianna had gone in, wincing a little as she heard the timbers creaking under the strain of the fire.  Scholar was still badly hurt and Kaarna... well she doubted Kaarna would go in after anyone.

 "Okay Twinkletoes.  We need to get her out of there.  I do like having one person here who likes me alive." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan's face pinched in annoyance.   "I was still me you know. Ahg, you probably don't, being stuck in one body.  I had a male body, but I was still female okay.  It feels... off.  But we can discuss that later. And no, I mean I can usually adopt the perceptive abilities, like darksight or enhanced scent, but not really beyond that."   She looked at the door where Adrianna had gone in, wincing a little as she heard the timbers creaking under the strain of the fire.  Scholar was still badly hurt and Kaarna... well she doubted Kaarna would go in after anyone.

 "Okay Twinkletoes.  We need to get her out of there.  I do like having one person here who likes me alive."  
 

Soren tilts his head in confusion.  "Okay...I don't know if I really get it but we can talk about that later. Though if you can learn how to be fireproof this would be a really good time."  He looks back at the dancing flames and gulps. No way should Scholar go in here, and he really doesn't know what Kaarna's going to do. Soren whines, a high-pitched noise in the back of his throat made in fear of what he (and Xan) are about to do.  "Yeah, guess we need to grab her and see if anything's salvagable. Hey Kaarna, if we're not out in five minutes then you better come in and rescue us! I'm too pretty to die in a fire!" 

With that he turns to Xan and with a wink makes a motion towards the door.  "Ladies first, Rough Draft." 
Athedia
Xan pulled her shirt collar over her mouth and yanked Soren's scarf over his mouth, before pushing him through the door.  "If that's what you want."   She squinted against the heat and smoke, staying next to Soren.  The last thing she wanted was to become separated in a fire.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan pulled her shirt collar over her mouth and yanked Soren's scarf over his mouth, before pushing him through the door.  "If that's what you want."   She squinted against the heat and smoke, staying next to Soren.  The last thing she wanted was to become separated in a fire. 
 

Soren flails at the sudden movement, stumbling and grabbing Xan's shoulder to right himself.  "I'm gonna get you for that,"  he mutters as he splashes water over his scarf and practically throws the rest of it in Xan's face.

Still, the smoke and flames make him instinctively draw back close to the changeling.
Silverraptor
Adrianna quickly checks the vital of the two men before looking up into the next room.

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
You'll tell me if and when I start taking damage from the fire, right?
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan and Soren 
You enter a stately interior hall some 40 feet high. Six enormous marble columns bear the visages of what appear to be hobgoblin kings, presumably from the Dhakaani Empire. Tapestries hanging from the ceilings depict idyllic meadows and blood-soaked battlefields. What is likely the most recent addition to Vorgaard's collection is a chilling rendering of a frozen field of corpses in the Mournland.

On the floor beneath the Mournland landscape, Adrianna bends over lie two men in stewards' livery. One is badly bludgeoned, and a crossbow bolt sprouts from the other's neck like a sapling.

Tall stained-glass windows line the walls. Those facing the west wing of the house reflect the red glow of the blazing fires raging there.

Interior doors set in the opposite wall from the entryway lead farther into the estate.

 Map .
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
The men are both dead, most likely from their wounds as smoke doesn't seem to have reached this part of the mansion yet. All the doors out of the room except the front door are closed; if you're opening any of them you'll need to say 1) that you are and 2) which.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna looks over her shoulder as Xan and Soren come in.
 "These men are dead, but there could still be someone alive." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh sorry. I read the map and only saw one other door opposite from the entrance door. Didn't see the dashed lines on the side of the room. I thought they were all solid wall throughout.
 
CWater
 "You are all MAD!!",  Kaarna shouts and curses. She activates her flight and rises up to peer inside through the windows. She tries to keep and eye on where the others are, but it is hard with all the smoke and fire.
Kish
Through the windows from the courtyard, Kaarna sees Xan, Soren, and Adrianna bending over two bodies in a large hall.

 
 Spoiler 

The estate is shaped like a plus-sign. Adrianna, Xan, and Soren are in the lower point of it. The left point is on fire. Kaarna can fly to investigate any of the points; those groundbound can only explore the lower point or go through the north door into the middle section.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna looks over her shoulder as Xan and Soren come in.
 "These men are dead, but there could still be someone alive." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh sorry. I read the map and only saw one other door opposite from the entrance door. Didn't see the dashed lines on the side of the room. I thought they were all solid wall throughout.
 
 
 

Xan nodded and went to feel the door to the north east.  She was checking to see if the fire was behind it.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna looks over her shoulder as Xan and Soren come in.
 "These men are dead, but there could still be someone alive." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh sorry. I read the map and only saw one other door opposite from the entrance door. Didn't see the dashed lines on the side of the room. I thought they were all solid wall throughout.
 
 
 

 "I hope so,"  Soren says as he looks down at the bodies.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "You are all MAD!!",  Kaarna shouts and curses. She activates her flight and rises up to peer inside through the windows. She tries to keep and eye on where the others are, but it is hard with all the smoke and fire. 
 

 "Well isn't that why we're frends?"  Soren shouts back with the bravado of before. He turns back and steps over to the northwestern door, taking a few steps before he stops.  "Stand back,"  he says to Adrianna and Xan as he steps aside and holds his hand out with a twisting motion. A thin faintly reddish translucent hand suddenly appears by the door, grabs the knob, and pulls it open.

 
 Spoiler: Soren's Action 
Soren steps to the side at the edge of the spell range and uses Mage Hand to open the northwest door.
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren, Xan, Adrianna 
Behind the doors Soren and Xan open are antechambers. The northwest one is significantly hotter than the northeast one. Neither holds an apparent exit other than the one you came in by.
 
Athedia
Xan pointed to the door behind Adrianna.   "Check there.  We have to hurry." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren nods and moves the mage hand to open the last door.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Soren, Xan 
On the other side of the door, beneath a stained-glass ceiling, archaic suits of armor stand like silent sentinels along the landing. Some are adorned with massive helms or feathered headdresses, while others feature hideous war masks to frighten foes. Some 60 feet from the doorway, which means 75 feet from Adrianna, 80 feet from Soren, 85 feet from Xan, a staircase descends out of your sight.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Map  is updated.
 

 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Soren, Xan 
On the other side of the door, beneath a stained-glass ceiling, archaic suits of armor stand like silent sentinels along the landing. Some are adorned with massive helms or feathered headdresses, while others feature hideous war masks to frighten foes. Some 60 feet from the doorway, which means 75 feet from Adrianna, 80 feet from Soren, 85 feet from Xan, a staircase descends out of your sight.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Map  is updated.
 

 
 
 

Xan looked at the exit nervously, ever ounce of her telling her to bolt.  But instead she gripped her swords tighter and carefully walked forward and down the stairs, trying to be as quiet as possible in case more people lurked down them.

 
 Spoiler 
Fast Stealth so this is at full speed
Stealth:  (1d20+13)[ 18 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Through the windows from the courtyard, Kaarna sees Xan, Soren, and Adrianna bending over two bodies in a large hall.

 
 Spoiler 

The estate is shaped like a plus-sign. Adrianna, Xan, and Soren are in the lower point of it. The left point is on fire. Kaarna can fly to investigate any of the points; those groundbound can only explore the lower point or go through the north door into the middle section.
 
 
 

Kaarna makes a mental note of where she last saw the others, then flies higher to take a look at the second floor.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
Kaarna finds herself looking through glass into a well-appointed bedroom. It appears to have been torn apart recently. An open door leads into a hallway.
 

 
 Spoiler: Xan 

The staircase descends to a lower landing that connects this corridor to three others by similar stairs. On the lower landing stand numerous glass and mahogany cases filled with all manner of trinkets and relics: a Sarlonian funeral mask, shards of Xen'drik pottery, a scorpion bracelet of ancient drow design, a Dhakaani hobgoblin dagger-axe, and a Riedran adze, to name but a few.

Hanging on steel cables to the east is an impressive display of alchemical taxidermy--a well-preserved giant squid the size of a sailing cog. The cephalopod is framed by the glorious stained glass mural above, which depicts couatls locked in furious combat with rakshasas and other fiends. A tall woman who, after a blurred moment, you recognize as the woman who confronted you on the trail and demanded the Dragon's Eye, emerges from the east door, flanked by a pair of very dead-looking--but still moving--humans. As she begins to ascend the stairs toward you, she doesn't seem to have noticed you yet; both zombies do, but they don't point you out. One jerks what's left of its chin toward the south door you came in by meaningfully.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 

The staircase descends to a lower landing that connects this corridor to three others by similar stairs. On the lower landing stand numerous glass and mahogany cases filled with all manner of trinkets and relics: a Sarlonian funeral mask, shards of Xen'drik pottery, a scorpion bracelet of ancient drow design, a Dhakaani hobgoblin dagger-axe, and a Riedran adze, to name but a few.

Hanging on steel cables to the east is an impressive display of alchemical taxidermy--a well-preserved giant squid the size of a sailing cog. The cephalopod is framed by the glorious stained glass mural above, which depicts couatls locked in furious combat with rakshasas and other fiends. A tall woman who, after a blurred moment, you recognize as the woman who confronted you on the trail and demanded the Dragon's Eye, emerges from the east door, flanked by a pair of very dead-looking--but still moving--humans. As she begins to ascend the stairs toward you, she doesn't seem to have noticed you yet; both zombies do, but they don't point you out. One jerks what's left of its chin toward the south door you came in by meaningfully.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
How close are the zombies and woman?  Would Xan be able to sneak attack her or not?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "You think maybe we can save any of this stuff?"  Soren asks in a whisper, staring up at the frightening masks. He then follows Xan down the stairs, several feet behind her.

 
 Spoiler: Stealth attempt: 

Stealth:  (d20+11)[ 27 ] 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
Kaarna finds herself looking through glass into a well-appointed bedroom. It appears to have been torn apart recently. An open door leads into a hallway.
 
 
 

 "Hmm, someone has been having fun",  Kaarna remarks to herself. She moves to check on the room next to this one, then descends back down to look for Soren and the others again.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
Through the west window, you see a room completely consumed in flames; you think it used to be a sitting room.

Descending and looking through the first window, you see only Adrianna now.
 


Scholar hurries into the mansion after Adrianna, Xan, and Soren.

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
 "We'd better try to find the journal quickly before the whole place burns up,"  Scholar says, stopping next to you.  "Which door did the others go through?" 
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna points to the door Xan and Soren went through.
 "They went over there. As for the journal, I would think the most logical place for it to be is in the library or a study." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna points to the door Xan and Soren went through.
 "They went over there. As for the journal, I would think the most logical place for it to be is in the library or a study."  
 

Kaarna spits an ugly curse.  "What will that stupid brat get himself into next? You keep him alive, armour girl!" 

Kaarna continues to fly next to the building, looking for a room that has books or writing things.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 

The staircase descends to a lower landing that connects this corridor to three others by similar stairs. On the lower landing stand numerous glass and mahogany cases filled with all manner of trinkets and relics: a Sarlonian funeral mask, shards of Xen'drik pottery, a scorpion bracelet of ancient drow design, a Dhakaani hobgoblin dagger-axe, and a Riedran adze, to name but a few.

Hanging on steel cables to the east is an impressive display of alchemical taxidermy--a well-preserved giant squid the size of a sailing cog. The cephalopod is framed by the glorious stained glass mural above, which depicts couatls locked in furious combat with rakshasas and other fiends. A tall woman who, after a blurred moment, you recognize as the woman who confronted you on the trail and demanded the Dragon's Eye, emerges from the east door, flanked by a pair of very dead-looking--but still moving--humans. As she begins to ascend the stairs toward you, she doesn't seem to have noticed you yet; both zombies do, but they don't point you out. One jerks what's left of its chin toward the south door you came in by meaningfully.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Xan 
As soon as Xan saw the zombie move, she launched herself forward, blades coming down toward the woman.   "What did you want from here, cultist!" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
I believe she is flat-footed so I get SA. Standard action though so no TWF

Attack:  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
Sneak Attack:  (3d6)[ 7 ] 

If Sneak Attack hits, I also do 3 points of bleed damage

 
 Spoiler: Debilitating Injury (If SA hits) 
Disoriented: The target takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls. In addition, the target takes an additional –2 penalty on all attack rolls it makes against the rogue. At 10th level and 16th level, the penalty on attack rolls made against the rogue increases by –2 (to a total maximum of –8).
 

 

 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren barely has time to register the presence of Xan and that cultist again when she launches herself at the woman. He curses silently to himself--if he'd only been a bit faster he could have enchanted the answers out of her. But to be honest if there's going to be bloodshed he wouldn't terribly mind spilling this woman's blood.

Soren's voice, a clear tenor, rings out through the smoke.

 "You, emerald cultist, emerald coward
Infiltrator, arsonist, murderer whose power
Is stolen and false, you ill-informed terrorist
Who hounds us--woman, state your business!" 
 
 Spoiler: Soren's actions 
This would have been better as a Suggestion, but since you need to fascinate them first and you can't Fascinate someone who you're taking hostile actions against, so much for that.

Soren is, instead, drawing his bow, staying around the corner for cover, and using Inspire Courage on himself and Xan.

Also, are the lines ok?
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
You continue to fly around the upper floor. You're not finding any room with books; it looks like it's mostly bedrooms. The western side of the house is ablaze, and the fire is progressing toward the rest of the house. You doubt the house will last very long.
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
Scholar hurries past you into the building ahead of you and down the stairs.
 

 
 Spoiler: Soren and Xan 
Xan's strike hits the woman, who yelps in shock and rage. One of the zombies flanking her, moving with a speed unlike most zombies created outside of Karrnath, lunges at Xan with a well-made sword. You hear footsteps from behind as Scholar begins to descend the stairs.
 
 Spoiler 

Longsword attack on Xan:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 7 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+3)[ 8 ] 

Xan can act again before the woman does.
Scholar's initiative roll:  (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 
 

 
Silverraptor
Adrianna is startled seeing Scholar run past her.
 "What? Wait! Scholar!" 
She quickly follows the warforge.
CWater
 "Damn it, this place is going to be just a pile of ash soon enough. What were those idiots thinking, charging in like that!"  She flies back to where she last saw Adrianna.  "Hey! I don't see any libraries! Hey!" 
 
 Spoiler 
I can't say how many rounds it took Kaarna to do this, but I assume Adrianna is no longer there when she returns. (Her flight speed is 60 ft., if I remember correctly.)
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Xan and Soren 
Xan swung forward again, both blades slicing at the woman.   She felt encouraged by Soren's song, though she wouldn't tell him as much.  Realizing how outnumbered she was she took a quick step back.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
Crit 1:  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
If it hits Bleed 3

Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 28 ]   This one was a Crit Chance 
Crit 1:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
If it hits Bleed 3

Then a five foot step to the green square marked on the roll20 map.

Could I ask for a refresher on action points?
 

 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan, Soren 
 "Gah!"  The woman jumps back, bleeding heavily from Xan's cuts.  "You! Since you didn't have the good taste to die on the road..."  She throws a small onyx gem toward the suspended giant squid. The gem disappears and the squid begins to move.
 

 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
Indeed, you see no one in the courtyard now.
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
The staircase descends to a lower landing that connects this corridor to three others by similar stairs. On the lower landing stand numerous glass and mahogany cases filled with all manner of trinkets and relics: a Sarlonian funeral mask, shards of Xen'drik pottery, a scorpion bracelet of ancient drow design, a Dhakaani hobgoblin dagger-axe, and a Riedran adze, to name but a few.

Hanging on steel cables to the east is an impressive display of alchemical taxidermy--a well-preserved giant squid the size of a sailing cog. The cephalopod is framed by the glorious stained glass mural above, which depicts couatls locked in furious combat with rakshasas and other fiends. You see Soren and Xan facing off with the woman who threatened you on the road, and with two zombies. The giant squid suspended over them is starting to move as well.
 

 
 Spoiler: OOC for everyone 
Silverraptor/Adrianna can now view the roll20 game, and should also roll initiative. Soren is up.
 
CWater
 "Oh by the hag's earwax!"  Kaarna floats to the doors and peers inside.  "Where did you go, you suicidal idiots?!",  she shouts.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan, Soren 
 "Gah!"  The woman jumps back, bleeding heavily from Xan's cuts.  "You! Since you didn't have the good taste to die on the road..."  She throws a small onyx gem toward the suspended giant squid. The gem disappears and the squid begins to move.
 
 
 

 "And you didn't have the good sense to believe us!"  Soren sings, more like screams as he fires his bow.  "Why did you set the house on fire? Did you kill him?! And did you steal those zombies from the Karrnathian army?" 

Movement above startles Soren and he jumps back at the now undead giant squid thrashing its tentacles.  "Careful, Xan! She can make undead things!" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 

Soren continues his inspire courage (+2 to attack, damage, and saves against charm and fear effects) song and fires around the corner at the woman.
Attack:  (d20+10)[ 17 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+10)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d6+6)[ 10 ] 
Crit Damage:  (d6+6)[ 11 ]   (d6+6)[ 12 ] 

I've been miscalculating Soren's damage for a while, forgettng to factor in Point Blank Shot and the magic bonus from the bow itself.
 
CoffeeIncluded
If I can blow an action point on the attack roll, I don't think I've used any yet this level:  (d6)[ 1 ] 

So now the attack roll would b an 18.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
The hall is deserted now. The north door stands open, but you can't see through it from there.
 

 
 Spoiler: Soren, Xan, Adrianna 
Soren's arrow glances off the woman's armor.  "Shut him up!"  she snaps. The zombie who hasn't acted yet steps forward, and both zombies swing their swords at Xan, after which the north one steps forward to menace Soren.

 
 Spoiler 

Longsword attack:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+3)[ 10 ] 
Longsword attack:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ]  Critical threat (on 19 or 20):  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+3)[ 5 ] 

&gt;&gt; Adrianna [12]
&gt;&gt; Xan [11]
Scholar [10]
The woman [9]
Giant squid [9]
Soren [8]
Z2: [6]
Z1: [15]

Adrianna and Xan are up. roll20 map is  here .
 

 
CWater
 "Seriously, they started a  fight  in there?! And some other moron goes along with it?! Oh for-"  Cursing, Kaarna pulls the fireball necklace off her neck and throws it away from the manor, paying attention to where it lands, then starts casting a spell. A transparent hand appears to float next to her shoulder. Right after the spell is done, she begins casting another.

  What the hell are  you  thinking? You're not planning on going in too?!!,   Veca shouts.

Kaarna's hands turn very cold, freezing the air they touch.

  No! Have you gone mad from all of those fire spells? Want to burn yourself as well? No, don't you dare! Put me down first!  
 "Oh, shut up cretin!",  Kaarna replies. Spitting more curses, she flies inside and towards the noise. She also shifts form as she goes, and stays as close to the roof as she can.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
This takes 2 rounds, I think.

1 round
 Move action:  Throw Necklace of Fireballs away (fire can set that thing off!)
 Standard action:  Cast  Spectral Hand , delivers touch spells. Kaarna transfers  (1d4)[ 4 ]  HP to it.

2 round
 Standard action : Cast  Frostbite  , touch spell, 6/6 uses left.
 Move action:  Fly as far as she can, speed 60 ft. (Not sure how much of her Flight Kaarna has used, her maximum is 6 minutes and it needs to be spent in 1 minute increments.)
 Free action:  Shifting.
 
Athedia
 [spoiler=Soren, Xan, Adrianna]Soren's arrow glances off the woman's armor.  "Shut him up!"  she snaps. The zombie who hasn't acted yet steps forward, and both zombies swing their swords at Xan, after which the north one steps forward to menace Soren. 

 
 Spoiler: In Basement 
Xan lashed out at the zombie between her and Soren, attempting to take it down before it could injure the bard.   "Of course she can! Zombies don't just poof into being!" 
 
 Spoiler: Attack 
I believe I get SA, and the +2 flanking and -2 twf attacks cancel out, +2 attack and damage from bardic stuff

Sword 1:
Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 24 ] 

Sword 2:
Attack:  (1d20+11)[ 22 ] 
 

 
Silverraptor
Adrianna rushes forward to get next to Soren, preparing to parry any attack from the zombie or anything else that threatens him. She also positions herself directly on the other side of the zombie from Xan to perfectly flank the undead abomination.

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna's turn 
Sorry for taking so long. Been preparing for Christmas with my family. With that said, since Adrianna has 1 more initiative then Xan and I see Xan was attempting a sneak attack, I will move Adrianna to flank the zombie, allowing Xan to try the sneak attack. While she is next to Soren, she can use an attack of opportunity to raise Soren's AC if he is attacked with the Bodyguard feat (Atleast that's how I understood it). And finally she swings her sword at the zombie to try and take him down, though this will be before Xan moves so no flank bonus, but factoring in the +2 from Soren's song. Let me know if I forget anything.

Attack: (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
Critical: (1d20+12)[ 26 ] 
Damage: (1d8+6)[ 10 ] 

Edit: Or not. Because I have difficulty reading maps.
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Soren, Xan 
Xan's slashes shred the zombie, which falls. Still badly damaged, Scholar hesitates on the stairs.  "I'd buff you, but getting close to that thing looks like a bad idea,"  she says flatly and begins intoning a spell that has no visible effect yet.

The squid, obeying the woman's command, swings one tentacle at Soren. As it does, the woman gestures toward Xan with something small held in her hand.

 
 Spoiler 

Xan needs to make a Will save.
Squid attack (from OOC):  [roll]1d20+19[roll] [ 28 ] Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 25 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 11 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 12 ] 
Adrianna can use an attack of opportunity to Aid Another Soren's AC.

Soren is up.  Roll20 link .
 

 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Soren's arrow glances off the woman's armor.  "Shut him up!"  she snaps. The zombie who hasn't acted yet steps forward, and both zombies swing their swords at Xan, after which 
 

Soren starts to laugh.  "Emerald woman, Karrnathian traitor,
A successful mission--you'll always hear me later!" 

He opens his mouth to spout a litany of increasingly creative insults, but as he begins a tentacle slams him into the floor.

 "Urngh...Good one, but..."  He looks up with a smile to see Adrianna next to him.  "I'm not alone!"  Soren gets up again and backs off, continuing his insults as he attempts to cast a spell.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Free action: Continue Inspire Courage (2 to attack, damage, and saves against charm and fear effects)

Move action: Get out of range of the tentacles, preferably closer to Scholar.
Acrobatics Check to avoid an AoO:  (d20+13)[ 20 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Action point for the acrobatics check:  (d6)[ 2 ] 


Standard action: Cast  Moment of Greatness  on himself, Xan, Adrianna, Scholar, and Kaarna if she happens to be within 50 feet of him since she can hear him.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Kaarna 
Please roll initiative.
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Soren, Xan 
Xan shrugs off the effect of the woman's spell. As Soren dodges up the stairs, the squid fetches him another whack. The remaining humanoid zombie moves to follow him, but the woman snaps,  "Kill this one first!"  gesturing at Xan. The zombie wheels to attack Xan.
 
 Spoiler 

Attack of opportunity against Soren:  (1d20+19)[ 39 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 23 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 17 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 13 ] 
Zombie attack on Xan:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  Damage:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+3)[ 6 ] 

Adrianna and Xan are up.  Roll20  link.
 

 
Silverraptor
Adrianna throws a couple of swings at the zombie.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Full attack
Attack 1:  (1d20+12)[ 28 ] 
Critical 1:  (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
Damage :  (1d8+6)[ 12 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Critical 2:  (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
Damage :  (1d8+6)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: In Basement 
Xan looked at the Zombie and then back at the woman.  She didn't want her to escape too far away, where Xan couldn't reach her.  But this creature had been told to end her first.  She groaned in frustration and sliced at the zombies side.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
If the bard song isn't working than please subtract 2

Attack1:  (1d20+9)[ 28 ]  +2 Flanking bonus for 30
Attack2:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ]  +2 Flanking bonus for 17
 

 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Attack Part 2 
Crit Confirm Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ]  +2 Flanking bonus for 20
Damage 1:  (1d6+7)[ 11 ] 
I do get SA this time:  (3d6)[ 14 ] 

Damage 2:  (1d6+7)[ 12 ] 
SA:  (3d6)[ 12 ] 

Subtract 2 from Damage if Bard song not working, add 2 to SA if it applies.

5 foot step to area marked on the map.
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Soren, Xan 
As the squid punts Soren up the stairs, Adrianna's sword slices into the zombie. Xan hits it once as well; its flesh resists her sword, but not enough, and it falls to the floor. Scholar holds out a holy symbol of Dol Arrah.  "I said be still,"  sneers the woman, repeating her chant and gesture and taking a step back into a corner. The squid swings one of its tentacles at Xan.

 
 Spoiler 
Soren is healed for  (2d6)[ 8 ] . Xan needs to make another Will save.
Squid attack:  (1d20+19)[ 35 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 27 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 13 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 17 ] 
 Roll20  link; Soren is up.
 

 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Owww..."  Soren whimpers as he gets to his feet and looks up at the zombie.  "Ok, change of plans. And you, emerald traitor, you think you can tell Rough Draft what to do?"  he sings as he fires at the squid.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Soren is staying as far away from squid range as possible, which is why that's the only thing in range. He continues his song, and then fires at the squid.

Attack:  (d20+9)[ 29 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler: Crit confirm and damage! 

Crit confirm:  (d20+9)[ 12 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Action point on the crit confirm:  (d6)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (d6+5)[ 11 ] 
Crit damage:  (d6+5)[ 7 ]   (d6+5)[ 7 ] 
Kish
As Kaarna flies into the building, she sees Scholar and Soren, both looking badly battered, standing at the top of a flight of stairs, just barely beyond the reach of the uncoiling tentacles of a thing from nightmare: a dead and preserved, and yet moving and hostile, giant squid suspended by chains from the ceiling. Soren fires an arrow; it lodges in the creature's armored hide, looking like a very small splinter. To Kaarna's left, a stained-glass window explodes, shards of glass narrowly missing her, as the temperature rises. Past them and below the squid, on a landing that holds a number of glass and mahogany cases filled with relics, Adrianna and Xan are facing off with the woman who demanded the Dragon's Eye on the trail; both Xan and the woman look injured. Two unfamiliar armored corpses lie at different levels on the stairs, ornate swords lying next to them.

Xan is able, once again, to shake off the woman's spell. She looks annoyed.
 
 Spoiler 
Adrianna and Xan are up. Everyone can now look at the  map , and Kaarna's been placed on it. The crit did not confirm.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 As Kaarna flies into the building, she sees Scholar and Soren, both looking badly battered, standing at the top of a flight of stairs, just barely beyond the reach of the uncoiling tentacles of a thing from nightmare: a dead and preserved, and yet moving and hostile, giant squid suspended by chains from the ceiling. Soren fires an arrow; it lodges in the creature's armored hide, looking like a very small splinter. To Kaarna's left, a stained-glass window explodes, shards of glass narrowly missing her, as the temperature rises. Past them and below the squid, on a landing that holds a number of glass and mahogany cases filled with relics, Adrianna and Xan are facing off with the woman who demanded the Dragon's Eye on the trail; both Xan and the woman look injured. Two unfamiliar armored corpses lie at different levels on the stairs, ornate swords lying next to them.

Xan is able, once again, to shake off the woman's spell. She looks annoyed.
 
 Spoiler 
Adrianna and Xan are up. Everyone can now look at the  map , and Kaarna's been placed on it. The crit did not confirm.
 
 
 

 "Don't tell me what to do."   Xan stepped forward again, using her entire body weight (what little there was) to shove the swords straight at the woman.

 
 Spoiler: Attack 
Yes, I know this is suboptimal, but I want her downed ASAP

Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
Attack 2:  (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Crit Confirm 
Crit Confirm:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  please please please don't make me use another hero point.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Damage 
I am pretty sure that crit so all told

Damage 1:  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
Damage 2:  (1d6+5)[ 10 ] 
Crit Damage:  (1d6+5)[ 6 ] 
 
Kish
Xan's shortswords cut into the woman's stomach, and she falls. The squid remains active.
 
 Spoiler 
And Adrianna is still up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna shifts 5 feet closer to Xan and the woman, but her attention is on the Squid suspended above her.
 "If you have any minor healing potions, use it to keep her from bleeding out! She may have answers! I'll keep the squid occupied!" 
Her sword begins to glow as focuses on the squid, sizing up the target before hitting it with a smite evil!

 
 Spoiler: Smite Evil! 
Attack 1:  (1d20+14)[ 34 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+12)[ 13 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+12)[ 17 ] 

Since the Squid is Undead, the first successful attack against it is a +18 instead of +12.
 
Kish
Adrianna cuts deep into the squid. Scholar produces another burst of energy. The squid swings at Xan again, seemingly ignoring Adrianna.
 
 Spoiler 

 (2d6)[ 7 ]  healing to Soren and, if applicable, to Kaarna.
Squid attack on Xan:  (1d20+19)[ 38 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 20 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 20 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 15 ] 
 Map  is updated; Soren, Kaarna, Adrianna, and Xan are up.
 
Athedia
Xan was standing gloating a little over the woman when the squids tentacle smashed into her back, knocking the wind out of her.  She glared at the creature and slashed at the tentacles as they danced past her.

 
 Spoiler: Attack? 
Assuming I can hit it.

Moment of Greatness on Attack 1 for another +2

Attack 1:  (1d20+11)[ 21 ] 
Attack 2:  (1d20+11)[ 23 ]  Sorry that should be a  21 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Damage? Maybe 
Damage 1:  (1d6+5)[ 9 ] 
Damage 2:  (1d6+5)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren can't see what's happening, but Xan's shout, the body hitting the ground, and Adrianna's response tell him enough.  "HA! How about you shut up?"  He steals a look around the corner then whips back to press his body against the wall before those tentacles can slam into him again. Instead, Soren sings and throws his arms out to his side, splaying out his fingers like feathers. He claps his open palms together and a giant eagle appears to fly towards the squid.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Soren continues Inspire Courage and casts Summon Monster One to summon an eagle for attacking and flanking the squid. Does the summon attack this turn?
 
CWater
 "What are you $%#&amp;¥&amp;$ idiots doing?!",  Kaarna roars when she enters the room,  "What can be so. Damn. Important. That you must fight it in here? How long do you think this house will last!"  She throws a glance at the bodies.  "You done at least? Then let's get out of here. NOW!!"  She opens her palm and stretches the hand towards the squid, weaving a spell between curses. The ghostly hand shoots towards the creature.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting Trial of Fire and Acid, delivered by Spectral Hand.
I've used this spell before, but I've forgotten, do all hostile spells with touch range require an attack roll? It is not specifically mentioned in the description like usual, but I assume so.

Anyway, melee touch attack:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  (includes +2 bonus from the Spectral Hand spell, but no others, please let me know if there are any in effect)
Not rolling damage because I might want to use an Action Point.
It'll be 1d6 fire and 1d6 acid for 6 rounds. Fort DC 16 every round to halve.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna yells over to Xan.
 "Do you have a potion to heal yourself?!" 
She then swings her sword twice again at the squid, throwing all her effort into taking it down.

 
 Spoiler: Attack rolls 
Attack 1:  (1d20+14)[ 18 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+14)[ 22 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Critical  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
 
Kish
Xan's shortswords cut into the squid, but their progress is significantly impeded. Kaarna's spell affects the squid, which starts to burn. Adrianna slashes at the squid...and misses twice. The squid swings a merciless tentacle at Xan.

Fire covers the wall to your west and rapidly approaches the floor Soren and Scholar are standing on. Scholar says,  "We're out of time! Get the journal if she has it, we have to go or we'll burn!"  and runs back out of the building to the south. Soren finishes his spell and an eagle appears.
 
 Spoiler 

Squid attack:  (1d20+19)[ 31 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 25 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 12 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 15 ] 
 Roll20  link.
Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren, Soren's eagle, and Xan are up.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna yells over to Xan.
 "Do you have a potion to heal yourself?!" 
She then swings her sword twice again at the squid, throwing all her effort into taking it down.

 
 Spoiler: Attack rolls 
Attack 1: [roll0]
Critical: [roll1]

Attack 2: [roll2]
Critical [roll3]
 
 
 

 "No! I don't!"  Xan looked between the exit that Soren and Kaarna were at and back at the woman.  If she had the journal on her... Xan could run now and save her own skin, but what would that be worth if the mark would kill her.  That journal was the only clue they had.

 
 Spoiler: Question 
What exits are there?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Get out of here!"  Soren shouts.  "The last thing it was told was to attack you--if that zombie had any brains like a true Karrnathian it'd be going after Adrianna instead! Eagle, strike!"   He runs forward, singing the words as he tries to grab the unconscious woman and pull her away.

 
 Spoiler: actions  

Soren continues the song and then, assuming the squid doesn't strike him, spends his full round trying to get to the unconscious woman and pull him away. If the squid attacks him then his actions might change...assuming he's still conscious.

The eagle also moves and attacks, flanking with Xan. I assume it doesn't get an action point?

Oh, and since sorens good-aligned it's a celestial eagle by default, so sadly there's no fire resistance. ☹️

Eagle attack
Attack:  (d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Crit:  (d20+7)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (d4+2)[ 3 ] 
Crit damage:  (d4+2)[ 3 ] 
 
Kish
Soren's arrow bounces off the squid's shell. As the eagle flies forward, the squid tries to swat it out of the air.
 
 Spoiler 
No way to approach the squid without provoking an attack of opportunity, so:
 (1d20+19)[ 37 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+19)[ 38 ]  Damage:  (2d6+9)[ 17 ]  Critical damage:  (2d6+9)[ 14 ] 

Note for future reference that 1) Soren isn't a divine caster, and 2) this is Eberron. The only thing that might stop him from summoning fiends is that he might not want to summon fiends. The eagle, even if it survived that, does not have action points, but go ahead and roll its attack. Note that you have a move action, should Soren want to get the hell out of dodge; not doing so will  probably definitely mean fire damage next round.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Soren's arrow bounces off the squid's shell. As the eagle flies forward, the squid tries to swat it out of the air.
 
 Spoiler 
No way to approach the squid without provoking an attack of opportunity, so:
[roll0] Critical threat check: [roll1] Damage: [roll2] Critical damage: [roll3]

Note for future reference that 1) Soren isn't a divine caster, and 2) this is Eberron. The only thing that might stop him from summoning fiends is that he might not want to summon fiends. The eagle, even if it survived that, does not have action points, but go ahead and roll its attack. Note that you have a move action, should Soren want to get the hell out of dodge; not doing so will  probably definitely mean fire damage next round.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Clarifying something 
that was the Eagles attack, not sorens. Soren is not yet attacking but once the squid goes is going to try and drag the women out of there. If he gets struck, he's asking Adrianna to do that.
 


edit: actually, once Soren sees the eagle get swatted, he's casting invisibility on himself and then moving to grab the woman.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Uh...Uh...book! Get the book!"  Soren thrusts his hand out in the air and a spectral fist suddenly appears. It floats to the unconscious woman and begins rummaging through her robes.'

 
 Spoiler: Action 
Soren casts Mage Hand and directs it as a move action to get that book.
 
CWater
Still spitting out curses Kaarna flies to Soren and wraps her arms around his waist, dragging him backwards towards the door leading out.  "No! You. Dimwitted. Imbecile."  She snarls to Soren's ear her shifted face twisted to a furious grimace,  "You are NOT getting yourself killed over some stupid pile of paper with scribbles! Do that and I'll rip you to shreds!" 

She's not strong enough to actually carry Soren, but she can lift him up for a short time, trying to throw him off balance in case he resists.

 
 Spoiler 
Alas, books have no value for Kaarna. For this, her soul will forever be lost.😉
 
Athedia
Xan made her decision and quickly knelt by the womans body, searching for the book.  After a few seconds, whether or not she found it she books it to the exit.

 
 Spoiler 
1 action searching the body, 1 action getting as far away as possible up the stairs.
 
Kish
Xan finds an ornate dagger, a potion flask, a black gem similar to the one the woman threw at the squid, and a large book. She runs up the stairs and out of the building.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Still spitting out curses Kaarna flies to Soren and wraps her arms around his waist, dragging him backwards towards the door leading out.  "No! You. Dimwitted. Imbecile."  She snarls to Soren's ear her shifted face twisted to a furious grimace,  "You are NOT getting yourself killed over some stupid pile of paper with scribbles! Do that and I'll rip you to shreds!" 

She's not strong enough to actually carry Soren, but she can lift him up for a short time, trying to throw him off balance in case he resists.

 
 Spoiler 
Alas, books have no value for Kaarna. For this, her soul will forever be lost.😉
 
 
 


Soren struggles against Kaarna, kicking and flailing while trying not to knock either of them open.  "Dammit Kaarna! If we don't get this book then we're just as dead and this whole thing was a complete waste!"  He flails his hand out, directing the Mage hand he conjured to rummage under her cloak...

And Xan bats it aside to pull out a dagger, some other stuff, and a large book. Soren instantly relaxes in Kaarna's grip and turns to bolt.  "Let's get outta here! No shredding and no burning!" 
Silverraptor
Adrianna is keeping a close eye on the squid as it reaches out and knocks the summoned bird out of the sky.
 "Are you able to find the-" 
She is interrupted as a blur runs past her and out of the room. She blinks and looks over at the body of the woman. Seeing that there was no Xan to be found, she mutters to herself,  "Guess so."  She then turns and runs out after Xan towards getting out of the burning building.
Kish
You arrive back in the courtyard of the building, as the flames close in behind you.

 "I need to prepare repair spells,"  Scholar says calmly.  "Did you find the journal?" 
Athedia
Xan opened the book she found and started scanning over the contents.   "I hope so.  I didn't see any other books." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren struggles against Kaarna, kicking and flailing while trying not to knock either of them open.  "Dammit Kaarna! If we don't get this book then we're just as dead and this whole thing was a complete waste!"  He flails his hand out, directing the Mage hand he conjured to rummage under her cloak...

And Xan bats it aside to pull out a dagger, some other stuff, and a large book. Soren instantly relaxes in Kaarna's grip and turns to bolt.  "Let's get outta here! No shredding and no burning!"  
 

 "Finally! First words of sense!"  Kaarna flies out alongside him.


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You arrive back in the courtyard of the building, as the flames close in behind you.

 "I need to prepare repair spells,"  Scholar says calmly.  "Did you find the journal?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan opened the book she found and started scanning over the contents.   "I hope so.  I didn't see any other books."  
 

 "It better be at least",  Kaarna mutters then turns to Soren, still floating in the air so she'll appear taller,  "You crazy idiot! Did you  have  to run into a burning house and then start some stupid fight in there and almost get beaten and burned! Do you have a deathwish!!?" 
Silverraptor
 "Yes, we did." 
Adrianna spoke in a strict, matter-of-fact voice.
 "We already are set on a timed execution. The only way to stave that off is through figuring out how to undo it. If we fail, then we will die. So we are risking our lives to save them, that's what it comes down to. Anyone need healing?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 [COLOR="#8B4513"] "It better be at least",  Kaarna mutters then turns to Soren, still floating in the air so she'll appear taller,  "You crazy idiot! Did you  have  to run into a burning house and then start some stupid fight in there and almost get beaten and burned! Do you have a deathwish!!?"  
 

Xan whirled around and glared at Kaarna.   "At least he tried.  If he hadn't distracted that squid, I would be dead.  And if you wanted to know, I started the fight.  I saw that woman and I know what that damned cult has done to my country.  So leave him alone." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Yes, we did." 
Adrianna spoke in a strict, matter-of-fact voice.
 "We already are set on a timed execution. The only way to stave that off is through figuring out how to undo it. If we fail, then we will die. So we are risking our lives to save them, that's what it comes down to. Anyone need healing?"  
 

 "You don't  know  if that damn diary is essential",  Kaarna grumbles,  "We could have found other leads." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan whirled around and glared at Kaarna.   "At least he tried.  If he hadn't distracted that squid, I would be dead.  And if you wanted to know, I started the fight.  I saw that woman and I know what that damned cult has done to my country.  So leave him alone."  
 

 "So you just had to murder her on the spot because of that grudge?",  she stops to consider it,  "Ok yeah, I can kind of get that. Fine, but you",  she elbows Soren, though gently,  "Are still an idiot for going along." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan opened the book she found and started scanning over the contents.   "I hope so.  I didn't see any other books."  
 

Soren flops backwards onto the ground, flings his arms out, and starts to laugh.  "Oh thank goodness, this wasn't a complete waste of time." 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Finally! First words of sense!"  Kaarna flies out alongside him.





 "It better be at least",  Kaarna mutters then turns to Soren, still floating in the air so she'll appear taller,  "You crazy idiot! Did you  have  to run into a burning house and then start some stupid fight in there and almost get beaten and burned! Do you have a deathwish!!?"  
 

 "Come on Kaarna, you already knew I was crazy when I became your friend. And it was just too funny pissing off that bitch."  Soren shifts up to a sitting position.  "Seriously though, you know perfectly well I don't have a death wish. I went through n there because this mission went pear-shaped from the start and that book is the only lead we have on staying alive." 

He draws his knees inward to his chest.  "But thanks for coming in there. It got pretty dicey, and I really didn't want to die like that." 

 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Yes, we did." 
Adrianna spoke in a strict, matter-of-fact voice.
 "We already are set on a timed execution. The only way to stave that off is through figuring out how to undo it. If we fail, then we will die. So we are risking our lives to save them, that's what it comes down to. Anyone need healing?"  
 

 
"And proper adventures are supposed to be full of danger"  Soren laughs somewhat hysterically.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan whirled around and glared at Kaarna.   "At least he tried.  If he hadn't distracted that squid, I would be dead.  And if you wanted to know, I started the fight.  I saw that woman and I know what that damned cult has done to my country.  So leave him alone."  
 

Soren turns to Xan with a small smile.  "that's...thanks. I wasn't going to leave you there and honestly I was itching for a fight with the Claw too. I'm glad you're ok."  He gets to his feet and bushes himself off and walks over to Xan, saying in a stage whisper,  "Though just so you know Kaarna's saying all this stuff because she's worried about me. She's just saying it like a jackass because she's an evil witch and they're not allowed to seem like they care."  
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 [COLOR="#8B4513"]
 "So you just had to murder her on the spot because of that grudge?",  she stops to consider it, 
 

 "Come on Kaarna, you of all people would approve." 

  "Ok yeah, I can kind of get that. Fine, but you",  she elbows Soren, though gently,  "Are still an idiot for going along."  

 "I know, but you love me anyway."  He elbows me back.  "But seriously,  thanks." 
Athedia
Xan looked a little surprised when Kaarna approved of her actions, and a little worried at the implications of that as well.  At Soren's words she felt her self starting to grin a little.   "So, evil witch.  What would you suggest next?" 
Kish
 "If you had other ideas for leads, it would have been good to mention them--"  Scholar starts, but is interrupted by an alarmed female voice.  "What? You're not Dura!" 

Four figures, a woman in a tunic and three men in leather armor, all four wearing familiar tabards showing green claws, stand just outside the courtyard of the burning building.

 
 Spoiler 
Xan, Kaarna, and Soren can all act before the new arrivals.  Map .
 
Athedia
Xan looked up in surprise at the new guests and quickly hid the book in her shirt.   "You looking for Dura?"   As she reached for her swords again she let her features shift and change to become a fair approximation of Dura's form.   "Dura  tried to tell me what to do." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "If you had other ideas for leads, it would have been good to mention them--"  Scholar starts, but is interrupted by an alarmed female voice.  "What? You're not Dura!" 

Four figures, a woman in a tunic and three men in leather armor, all four wearing familiar tabards showing green claws, stand just outside the courtyard of the burning building.

 
 Spoiler 
Xan, Kaarna, and Soren can all act before the new arrivals.  Map .
 
 
 

 " Are you kidding me."  

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan looked up in surprise at the new guests and quickly hid the book in her shirt.   "You looking for Dura?"   As she reached for her swords again she let her features shift and change to become a fair approximation of Dura's form.   "Dura  tried to tell me what to do."  
 

Soren looks over at Xan's shifting features, then turns back to the four emerald claw agents with a furious smile.

 "Through far and near countrysides you tear with flame and fear,
Hear and hound us on lies; here we stand--lend an ear!

Dura tried to tell Rough Draft what to do, so let her visage be the last thin you view!" 

Soren splays out his palm on the last word and a shower of glitter falls on the four terrorists.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Soren casts Glitterdust and then gets back. I can't access the map now but I saw it earlier and it looks like I can get all 4 of them. If I have another round to act I'll heal Xan.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "I know, but you love me anyway."  He elbows me back.  "But seriously,  thanks."  
 

Noticing the new threat saves Kaarna from replying. She growls at them.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan looked a little surprised when Kaarna approved of her actions, and a little worried at the implications of that as well.  At Soren's words she felt her self starting to grin a little.   "So, evil witch.  What would you suggest next?"  
 

 "Let's kill these too, I'm in the mood for some death. Stay back kids, or get yourselves into better shape!"  She takes flight, flying over the new party of enemies and shoots fire at them from her palms.

 
 Spoiler 
Move action: Move to hover 15 ft. up, one square to the right of the woman in the front.
Standard action: Cast  Burning Hands  down at them, I think she can hit the speaker and two others (let's say those most on the right).
Damage:  (5d4)[ 12 ]  Ref DC 14 to halve
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna yells to the group.
 "I have healing potions on me as well as a healing touch. Those most wounded come to me. Kaarna, go crazy. The longer you can distract them, the better we can back you up!" 
Kish
The flames do less damage than you might have expected, and the speaker manages to dodge them entirely. The leader and one of the others blink and rub their eyes at the glitterdust. Scholar produces another burst of divine energy before moving back.

The woman who spoke lunges forward, up the short staircase and around the pillar, homing in on Soren's voice and moving to punch him in the throat. The man next to her moves forward up the stairs as well, carefully; the one to her right, still apparently able to see, runs up the stairs with much less care and swings a heavy mace at Adrianna.

 
 Spoiler 

Will save: [roll]1d20+7[/roll
Will save:  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
Everyone is healed for:  (2d6)[ 3 ] 
Fist attack on Soren:  (1d20+9)[ 22 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ]  Lethal damage:  (1d8+2)[ 3 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Acid damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ]  If it hits, make two Fortitude saves. It misses entirely if this is a 1:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
 Map  is updated, and Adrianna is up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna blocks the mace attack with her shield and responds back with a several Slashes.

 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Attack 1: (1d20+9)[ 13 ] 

Attack 2: (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
 
Kish
Adrianna's slashes both hit. The last man runs up the stairs, his mace upraised.

 
 Spoiler 
You need to roll damage, and Xan, Soren, and Kaarna are up.  Map .
 
Athedia
Xan took one look at the advancing men, and ran away as fast as she could.

 
 Spoiler: Run Action 
Lets me move x4 speed (120 feet), straight to the right.  If I can't do that then a withdraw action.  She is no condition to fight and she has the book.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Spoiler 
Wait, they hit?!😦 Okay then.

Damage 1:  (1d8+4)[ 7 ] 
Damage 2:  (1d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren steps back, closes his eyes, and passes his hands over himself. When he opens again he's faded from view.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
5-foot step below Scholar, then casts invisibility on himself.
 
CWater
 "Okay then."  Kaarna picks up the necklace, then motions towards the woman. The spectral hand shoots in her direction.

 
 Spoiler 
Using  Spectral Hand  to deliver  Frostbite. 

Touch attack:  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+6)[ 8 ]  non-lethal and target is Fatigued.
 
Kish
Kaarna tries to cast a spell on the woman, but it misses. Soren disappears. Scholar turns and runs around one side of the building; Xan runs off on around  the other side of the building, with the woman close behind her.

 
 Spoiler: Xan 
The woman quickly catches up with you.  "Looks like you have something that isn't yours,"  she says.  "Give it to me, and I'll let you die quickly." 
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 

Two of the three men surrounding Adrianna swing their maces at her. One yells,  "For Karrnath!" 

Will save:  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 18 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 5 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 17 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 22 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 3 ]  It misses entirely if this roll is a 1:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
 Map  is updated and Adrianna is up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna deflects one mace attack with her sword and blocks the other with her shield. She then continues her attack against the foe she injured previously.

 
 Spoiler 
Another Full Attack.

Attack 1:  (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
The wounded man falls. One of the other men steps forward and tries to strike Adrianna with his mace.

 
 Spoiler 

Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
 

 

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Map  is updated; Kaarna, Soren, and Xan are up.
 
CWater
Kaarna curses.  "I've had enough of these folks. Kid! Don't move!"  Kaarna flies up in and throws down a fireball, aiming to hit two of the goons.

 
 Spoiler 
Move action to go up 30 ft.
Standard action to throw a 20 ft. radius  Fireball  to hit the enemies on Adrianna's left and south, but not herself, Adrianna or Soren. I think this should be possible, but correct me if I'm wrong.

Damage:  (6d6)[ 21 ] , Ref DC 14 to halve.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Kaarna tries to cast a spell on the woman, but it misses. Soren disappears. Scholar turns and runs around one side of the building; Xan runs off on around  the other side of the building, with the woman close behind her.

 
 Spoiler: Xan 
The woman quickly catches up with you.  "Looks like you have something that isn't yours,"  she says.  "Give it to me, and I'll let you die quickly." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Xan looked startled that the woman had caught up to her so fast.   "I don't think it is yours either."   She looked at the distance the group was from her.  Scholar was out of sight and Soren had managed to disappear to somewhere.  She lowered her volume slightly.   "Let me escape and I will give you info on where we go next.  They keep me on house arrest anyway, I have no loyalty to them."  As she spoke she started backing up.   "My previous masters know how valuable I can be.  So make it believable."   She took a quick step back and looped around the woman, staying a few feet away from her.  As quickly as she could she started sprinting back toward the group.

 
 Spoiler: I guess I should do Bluff 
Since she really doesn't actually want to betray the party.

Bluff: [roll]1d20+14
 

 

 
 Spoiler: Movement 
Withdraw action and try to go around her to get nearer to the party again (can't estimate distances.) And I just figured out how she probably caught up...she isn't a cleric is she....  She is a monk.  I did that whole super speedy character design...and I forgot about monks which were the base of it.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Actual bluff roll 
Because I shouldn't check my email while posting....

Bluff:  (1d20+14)[ 26 ] 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Spending an Action Point 
I should get some healing potions next time we are in town.

 (1d6)[ 3 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren can't hear what's going on,
but he can see Xan cornered, then backing away. He races towards her as fast as he can.

 
 Spoiler: Soren's actions 
If he can make it to Xan in a move action he does so, then casts invisibility on her. If not, he runs to get as close to her as possible.
Soren might try a bluff; is it possible to see how Xan's bluff is received before trying it?
 
Kish
Xan loops around the woman and runs back toward the estate, only for the woman to crash into her back.  "You're all going to Dolurrh, and I need no one to tell me that. Give me that book!"  One of the surviving men moves up and swings his mace at Adrianna.

 
 Spoiler 

Kick attack on Xan:  (1d20+11)[ 25 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+11)[ 24 ]  Lethal damage:  (1d8+2)[ 3 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+2)[ 3 ]  Acid damage:  (1d6)[ 5 ]  If it hits, make two Fortitude saves.
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 19 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 2 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 Map  is updated. Appearances to the contrary (bleh roll20 limitations), Xan is 85 feet to Adrianna's east, with Soren and the woman adjacent to Xan. Adrianna is up.

Sorry. She believes you totally--she just doesn't care. From her perspective, the book matters, your group doesn't.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Xan loops around the woman and runs back toward the estate, only for the woman to crash into her back.  "You're all going to Dolurrh, and I need no one to tell me that. Give me that book!"  One of the surviving men moves up and swings his mace at Adrianna.

 
 Spoiler 

Kick attack on Xan:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ]  Lethal damage: [roll2] Critical damage: [roll3] Acid damage: [roll4] If it hits, make two Fortitude saves.
Mace attack on Adrianna: [roll5] Critical threat check: [roll6] Damage: [roll7] Critical damage: [roll8]

 Map  is updated. Appearances to the contrary (bleh roll20 limitations), Xan is 85 feet to Adrianna's east, with Soren and the woman adjacent to Xan. Adrianna is up.

Sorry. She believes you totally--she just doesn't care. From her perspective, the book matters, your group doesn't.
 
 
 

Xan's eyes widened as the world seemed to slow.   Pain radiated out from her back and she couldn't help but let out a gasp of air as she fell.

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Yeah, she had 3 health and 18 AC. That hit.  She is at -5 now with the acid damage.

Fort Save:  (1d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Fort Save:  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna deflects another blow with the other man's mace before speaking to him.
 "Look, neither you or your friend working together was able to touch me, and now it's just you. So I'm going to go after your leader over there." 
She points in the direction of the woman, Xan, and Soren.
 "In that time, I would suggest tending to your friend. His wounds look bad. If you stabilize him and get out of here by the time I get back, I'll let you go. But if you are still here or follow me, I'm cutting you down as well!" 
She then turns and raises her shield for a possible retaliatory strike and moves as fast as she can towards where Xan is.

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna's actions 
Adrianna is attempting to intimidate and/or diplomacy checks against the other guy still up. She is then going to use whatever action moves her the fastest, probably run, but if there is something faster, she'll use that. She is going after Xan and the woman. Yes, she'll take an AoO, but she keeps all her AC I believe if that happens.

Intimidate:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Diplomacy:  (1d20+10)[ 20 ] 
 
Kish
As Adrianna runs toward Xan, all but ignoring the men still standing around her, the two of them aim a total of three mace blows at her back. One of them runs after her as well, easily catching up with her.

 
 Spoiler 

Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 4 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+8)[ 18 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 9 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+6)[ 10 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+6)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 4 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 9 ] 

Adrianna doesn't have her Dexterity bonus for those attacks, since she's running.  Map  is updated; Kaarna, Soren, and Xan are up. Once again, for reasons of roll20 limitations, note that there are an extra six phantom squares between the two still-active Emerald Claw goons on the map.

Is Adrianna wearing any visible symbols of Breland, Dol Arrah, or the Sovereign Host?
 
CWater
Kaarna eyes the battle from above and frowns. It wasn't going well and now many-faces had gotten herself knocked out too. And armor girl was too slow in that gear and the kid had disappeared somewhere. If he had any brains he would have run, but she knew he wouldn't. No, he'd risk life and limb for these folks, just like always. Cursing again, she retrieved a scroll and started flying towards Xan and the woman, staying well up in the air.  "Hey you! Self-important Claw lackey! You better run, when you still got all your limbs!" 

She opened the scroll and chanted the words, then extended her palm and the spectral hand shot forward. But instead of aiming for the enemy, it smacked Xan on the back of the head.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move action: 60 ft. towards Xan and the woman.
Standard action: Casting Cure Moderate Wounds from scroll, touch spell delivered by Spectral Hand.
Healing:  (2d8+3)[ 15 ] 

Kaarna is NOT happy.😏
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna eyes the battle from above and frowns. It wasn't going well and now many-faces had gotten herself knocked out too. And armor girl was too slow in that gear and the kid had disappeared somewhere. If he had any brains he would have run, but she knew he wouldn't. Cursing again, she retrieved a scroll and started flying towards Xan and the woman, staying well up in the air.  "Hey you! Self-important Claw lackey! You better run, when you still got all your limbs!" 

She opened the scroll and chanted the words, then extended her palm and the spectral hand shot forward. But instead of aiming for the enemy, it smacked Xan on the back of the head.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Move action: 60 ft. towards Xan and the woman.
Standard action: Casting Cure Moderate Wounds from scroll, touch spell delivered by Spectral Hand.
Healing:

Kaarna is NOT happy.😏
 
 
 

Soren watches Xan fall just as he reaches her, watches the spectral hand smack her upside the head and her skin stop sizzling.  "Hah! Yes! Kaarna, I could kiss you right now! Xan, I've got you!"  As she starts to get up he taps her on the nose and she immediately fades from sight. Soren then spins around to circle the Claw leader, draws his sword, and says as he runs,  "Hey, traitor, you're also an idiot. She doesn't have the book! And if you kill us you'll never learn what the Dragon's Eye gave us!" 
 
 Spoiler: Soren's actions 
Soren casts Invisibility on Xan (now she can get up from prone safely too!) taunts and tries to bluff the leader, and circles around to flank her while drawing his sword.

Bluff:  (d20+13)[ 30 ] 

Nice!
 
Athedia
Xan opened her eyes to a fast fading throbbing on the back of her head.  As she pushed off the ground, something hit her nose and her hands faded from view.    Invisible, that must have been Soren    She could see Adrianna running toward her and a decidedly annoyed Kaarna glaring in her direction, but no Soren or Scholar.  As she processed this she remembered the woman behind her.  As quickly as she could she crawled away from the woman before standing up.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Moving 5 feet away and then standing from prone
 
Kish
 "Bugs,"  the woman mutters, swinging her fists rapidly at the sound of Soren's taunting voice and footsteps.  "You'll regret not staying down."  One of the macemen runs up behind Adrianna.

 
 Spoiler 

Fist attack on Soren:  (1d20+9)[ 17 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+9)[ 26 ]  Lethal damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+2)[ 10 ]  Acid damage: (1d6)[5] It misses entirely if this is a 1:  (1d2)[ 2 ] 
Fist attack on Soren:  (1d20+9)[ 18 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+9)[ 23 ]  Lethal damage:  (1d8+2)[ 4 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+2)[ 7 ]  Acid damage: (1d6)[5] It misses entirely if this is a 1:  (1d2)[ 1 ] 
 Map  is updated and Adrianna is up.
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna waits to see what Kaarna does before taking any action.
Kish
The second maceman steps forward and takes a swing at Adrianna.
 
 Spoiler 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+8)[ 10 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 14 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 2 ] 
 Map  is updated; Kaarna, Soren, Xan, and Adrianna (after Kaarna) are up.

Xan discovers that her legs don't seem to be working very well. (Her current movement rate is 5 feet.)
 
CWater
Kaarna starts to cast another spell, and this time the spectral hand is imbued with dark negative energy. The witch targets the woman with it.  "Run, you idiots!",  she shouts. It's not entirely clear who she means.

 
 Spoiler 
Casting  Stricken Heart . If hits,  (2d6)[ 11 ]  damage and she is  staggered  for 1 round.
Touch attack with Spectral Hand:  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren laughs in disbelief, then breaks out into song again as he runs away from the fray.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
its been a long day and I'm about to go to bed, but Soren breaks into a bard song (Inspire Courage, +2 to attack, damage, and saves against things like fear) then runs away from the three combatants.
 
Silverraptor
Seeing that the monk woman appears out of it from Kaarna's spell, Adrianna instantly changes priority focus onto the woman. Holding up her shield again to block the mace blows, she rushes over towards the monk woman, turning on her detect evil along the way, and prepares to attack.

 
 Spoiler: Brief Pause 
Just waiting to see what the result is before completing her turn. Want to see if evil shines through at all, or enough that it stuns Adrianna like you said.
 
Kish
Adrianna detects a faint aura of evil from somewhere in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 
And, logically, should probably plow right into the invisible Xan, but I guess Xan can avoid her.
 
Silverraptor
With just a faint presence of evil being detected, Adrianna activates her second and last Smite evil, focused on the woman she swings her sword.

 
 Spoiler: Smite Evil 
Attack:  (1d20+13)[ 29 ] 
Critical:  (1d20+13)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (1d8+12)[ 20 ] 
 
Kish
Scholar swings a fist at the air in front of her.  Invisible Xan shuffles to the south, barely able to move her legs. Adrianna charges at the woman, the macemen swinging at her back as she does. A maceman lunges after Adrianna, the human woman tries to punch her, and the other maceman runs to strike at her as well..

 
 Spoiler 

Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+8)[ 13 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 26 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 3 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
Telekinetic Fist on northern soldier:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+3)[ 8 ]  Damage:  (1d4+1)[ 5 ]  Critical damage:  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+8)[ 17 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+8)[ 19 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 5 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+12)[ 22 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 6 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 8 ] 
Fist attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+11)[ 26 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+11)[ 22 ]  Lethal damage:  (1d8+2)[ 3 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+2)[ 8 ]  Acid damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ]  If it hits, make two Fortitude saves.
Mace attack on Adrianna:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ]  Critical threat check:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ]  Damage:  (1d8+1)[ 2 ]  Critical damage:  (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 

Adrianna has -2 to AC against all these attacks, as well as +her Charisma bonus to AC against the fist attack (only).

 Map  is updated. Soren is not actually where he appears to be, but is 35 feet away from the woman and more than that away from anybody else. Kaarna, Adrianna, Soren, and Xan are up.
 
Athedia
Xan moved away from the approaching men and back toward the woman, hoping she would be distracted by Adrianna.   She kept a close eye on her surroundings, ready to get out of the way.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
I assume still slowed, so moving to green square and then going into Full Defense for +4 AC
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna swings a couple more slashes at the woman.

 
 Spoiler: Full Attack 
Attack 1:  (1d20+13)[ 22 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+8)[ 27 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "What was it you said about Dolurrh?!"  Soren shouts, running forward and loosing an arrow at the more heavily wounded henchman as Adrianna bisects the leader. As the the arrow takes flight he slowly fades back into view.

 
 Spoiler: a actions  
Soren continues his song, moves into point blank shot range if possible, and fires an arrow at the more heavily wounded henchman.

Attack:  (d20+12)[ 19 ]  because of invisibility o think.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Damage:  (d6+6)[ 8 ] 
CWater
Seeing the woman fall Kaarna turn around and rips a light colored bead off her necklace, throwing it at the remaining men.  "Burn you %@&amp;#&amp;%@ pieces if %£&amp;@!! Burn!" , she growls while her bestial features actually recede, making her look more like a normal humanoid again.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Throw fireball from the necklace at the last enemies. Damage:  (2d6)[ 3 ] , Ref DC 14 to halve.
 
Kish
Adrianna cuts the woman down, thoroughly killing her. Scholar punches the air again, but again fails to have any effect. One soldier falls to an arrow and a singeing; the other turns and runs off to the north.

 
 Spoiler 

The surviving soldier makes a withdrawal action and runs off the map to the north; you can kill him automatically if you chase him at all as he won't do anything for the forseeable future but make withdrawal actions on any round he starts his action adjacent to one of you or run actions on any round he doesn't. He will not surrender or volunteer to be taken prisoner. Whatever you do where he's concerned, the fight part of the fight is over. Xan's movement rate returns to what it normally is.

900 XP each. Each of them has two potions flasks; the woman also has a ring on each hand, one set with a sapphire and one with an emerald, and bracers that will stand out if anyone casts Detect Magic on them, which Scholar will if no one else does. There are no currently visible enemies, but you don't know what might come around the burning mansion next.
 
Athedia
Xan's eyes widened as Adrianna demonstrated her dedication to her sword.  She had thought the girl, the woman skilled back when she had been testing the trade routes.  But now she was fully in tune with her armor and weapon.  Xan snapped back from amazement when she saw the man retreating.  She took off on a dead sprint after the man, relying on her invisibility to keep him from noticing her.  Once she outpaced him she turn around and waited until he ran by, slowing becoming visible as he impaled himself on the sword she held before her.  As he slumped to the group she spat on him.   "Goddamned Cultists." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren blinks and lowers his bow as Xan slowly reappears, the last cultist impaled on the end of her blade.  "Damn...That's one way to make an entrance. Everyone okay?" 
Silverraptor
Adrianna swishes her sword a couple times to have droplets fly of the end before pulling a rag out to wipe it off.
 "I am for the most part, but a lot of you need healing! And..." 
She looks at the Burning Mansion.
 "I don't think staying around here is a good idea. Do we still have what we need?" 
Athedia
Xan nodded, her sword still dripping and reached into her shirt to pull out the book.  As she did so her features morphed back into that of her natural form.   "I want a long nap right now." 
Kish
 "I have minimal healing left,"  Scholar says.  "It may be worth seeing if anything remains after the fire burns out, but for now we should probably get back to the ship before another group of fanatics shows up." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna nods.
 "Agreed. I can still heal a bit myself and I have a few potions for healing if we really need it, but lets get out of here quickly." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "We should probably take everything we can off of these guys though,"  Soren says as he leans down to loot the corpses. He pauses, halfway through lifting a gem out of the woman's pocket.  "Hey...actually, this might sound kinda twisted but maybe we should take her body with us? There's this spell I've heard some of the Seeker clerics talk about that lets you speak with dead people, maybe we can try it to ask her some questions? Or that Dura woman if she's not, you know a charred pile of ash?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "We should probably take everything we can off of these guys though,"  Soren says as he leans down to loot the corpses. He pauses, halfway through lifting a gem out of the woman's pocket.  "Hey...actually, this might sound kinda twisted but maybe we should take her body with us? There's this spell I've heard some of the Seeker clerics talk about that lets you speak with dead people, maybe we can try it to ask her some questions? Or that Dura woman if she's not, you know a charred pile of ash?"  
 

 "I'm not going back in there while its still on fire! And I'm not letting any of you in! Unless you've acquired an ability to be fireproof!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "No I am not fireproof, which is why I think we should take her instead,"  Soren says, pulling the woman's corpse a few inches off the ground by the collar of her torn and bloody shirt.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "No I am not fireproof, which is why I think we should take her instead,"  Soren says, pulling the woman's corpse a few inches off the ground by the collar of her torn and bloody shirt. 
 

 "Oh sure, let's carry a body around",  Kaarna says and lands next to them.  "Shame she died though, could have told us more alive. But yes let's loot them and then get the heck away from here."  She reaches to ruffle Soren's hair,  "And don't be stupid like that again, you hear me?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Spoiler: Flash back onto the ship 
It had been several days since they got on the ship. While Adrianna let them have the first day or two to themselves, Xan and Soren avoiding each other increasingly got on her nerves. They were rushing head long into a known trap and having members not trusting each other was not something they needed right now. On the fifth day, she had had enough. She began marching down the ship up and down looking for either of them. While she expected to find Soren first, given Xan could look like whoever she wants, she was surprised to see 'Sora' walking around the ship. Determined to not let her get away, she hurried over until she was almost within arm reach of Xan and called out to her.

 "Hey! There you are. I'm surprised your back in Sora. How are you doing?" 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Oh sure, let's carry a body around",  Kaarna says and lands next to them.  "Shame she died though, could have told us more alive. But yes let's loot them and then get the heck away from here."  She reaches to ruffle Soren's hair,  "And don't be stupid like that again, you hear me?"  
 

 "Maybe she can tell us something at least. But yeah, time to go."  He grins and shoulders Kaarna.  "No promises but I'll do what I can." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Maybe she can tell us something at least. But yeah, time to go."  He grins and shoulders Kaarna.  "No promises but I'll do what I can."  
 

 "Dragging a dead body?  I knew you were into weird stuff, but even that has to be to beyond what Blood of Vol allows."   Xan looked with disgust and then started back to the ship, walking slowly so she could read the book as she walked.


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flash back onto the ship 
It had been several days since they got on the ship. While Adrianna let them have the first day or two to themselves, Xan and Soren avoiding each other increasingly got on her nerves. They were rushing head long into a known trap and having members not trusting each other was not something they needed right now. On the fifth day, she had had enough. She began marching down the ship up and down looking for either of them. While she expected to find Soren first, given Xan could look like whoever she wants, she was surprised to see 'Sora' walking around the ship. Determined to not let her get away, she hurried over until she was almost within arm reach of Xan and called out to her.

 "Hey! There you are. I'm surprised your back in Sora. How are you doing?" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "I hate boats.  I hate boats.  I hate boats."   Muttered as she looked for a good dark corner on the overcrowded (to her) ship.  When Adrianna caught up with her she groaned and steadied against a wall.   "I go to the hold, Kaarna is hunting and killing the rats, I go to the railing, Soren is puking his guts up.  I turn around and the warforged, or you or a goddamned crew member is there.  Is there no place I can just sit and think for a second?" 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "I hate boats.  I hate boats.  I hate boats."   Muttered as she looked for a good dark corner on the overcrowded (to her) ship.  When Adrianna caught up with her she groaned and steadied against a wall.   "I go to the hold, Kaarna is hunting and killing the rats, I go to the railing, Soren is puking his guts up.  I turn around and the warforged, or you or a goddamned crew member is there.  Is there no place I can just sit and think for a second?" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, it'll be hard to find a quiet spot wandering around the ship." 
The ship lurched up a bit after that causing adrianna to reach out and steady herself on the nearby wall.
 "Do you want to retreat to our quarters? There'll be less people there." 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, it'll be hard to find a quiet spot wandering around the ship." 
The ship lurched up a bit after that causing adrianna to reach out and steady herself on the nearby wall.
 "Do you want to retreat to our quarters? There'll be less people there." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Still you.  Last time I checked you were people.  Why do you want to be around me so badly anyway?"   Xan let herself be led to their quarters.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna leads her down the ship.
 "To be honest, you were the first one I found today. If I found Soren instead, I'd be having this conversation with him." 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna leads her down the ship.
 "To be honest, you were the first one I found today. If I found Soren instead, I'd be having this conversation with him." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Oh goody.  A heart to heart... again.  Look, I haven't pushed him overboard and he hasn't hit me again.  Admittedly the former point is more due to Kaarna and you, but it still stands." 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Oh goody.  A heart to heart... again.  Look, I haven't pushed him overboard and he hasn't hit me again.  Admittedly the former point is more due to Kaarna and you, but it still stands." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, I'm glad you restrained yourself from forcing him to take swim due to foresight. But now we need to work on the next critical problem." 
She reaches the door to her room and opens it for Xan. After she goes through, she walks in after and closes the door behind her.
 "Living longer then a year." 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, I'm glad you restrained yourself from forcing him to take swim due to foresight. But now we need to work on the next critical problem." 
She reaches the door to her room and opens it for Xan. After she goes through, she walks in after and closes the door behind her.
 "Living longer then a year." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
 "A talk won't help with that.  Getting that journal from what's his name will.  And then getting the dragon to give us answers." 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler 
 "A talk won't help with that.  Getting that journal from what's his name will.  And then getting the dragon to give us answers." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "You're right. That is definitely what it will take. And the fact Emerald's Claw knows we're coming, we can definitely expect a fight. And what worries me the most is the potential we could be getting into a fight when our two favorite 'half-elf' siblings, or what-ever, aren't talking to each other. And we have only a week left before we arrive!" 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Dragging a dead body?  I knew you were into weird stuff, but even that has to be to beyond what Blood of Vol allows."   Xan looked with disgust and then started back to the ship, walking slowly so she could read the book as she walked. 
 

Soren sticks out his tongue at Xan.  "First, you're sick. Second, it's somewhat fuzzy on the subject of intelligent undead." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "You're right. That is definitely what it will take. And the fact Emerald's Claw knows we're coming, we can definitely expect a fight. And what worries me the most is the potential we could be getting into a fight when our two favorite 'half-elf' siblings, or what-ever, aren't talking to each other. And we have only a week left before we arrive!" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback Continued 
 "Andrianna, you realize when he sees me he literally vanishes.  Casts a spell and disappears. Even if I wanted to talk, which I don't, I wouldn't be able to get close enough." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren sticks out his tongue at Xan.  "First, you're sick. Second, it's somewhat fuzzy on the subject of intelligent undead."  
 

Xan looked disgusted.  "Oh gods.  Don't tell me you have actually thought about it.  But seriously, leave the body behind.  We don't have anything that will keep it from rotting on our trip back and I think the captain of the ship is already tired of us." 
CWater
Kaarna has searched the other bodies for anything valuable and is now gleefully setting them on fire.  "Burn burn oh you will  burn ...",  she mutters to herself. She throws a spark from her fingers on the last corpse and turns around to look at the others.  "Well, have you decided what to do with her remains? If you don't want them, I'd be happy to see them on fire."  She toys with a new flame.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback Continued 
 "Andrianna, you realize when he sees me he literally vanishes.  Casts a spell and disappears. Even if I wanted to talk, which I don't, I wouldn't be able to get close enough." 
 
 
 


 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna sighs before she begins pacing, thinking while she does so.
 "Why exactly do you not want to talk to him? Neither of you have been clear when I've talked to each of you on this boat trip what grudge you two have against each other..." 
 
Silverraptor
 "Quickly please. If you have this spell and want to use it, lets get going. The boat isn't far off! And the sooner we get away from this, the better." 
Kish
 "It might be worthwhile to stay close enough for an hour or so to search this...Dura's...body when the fire dies down; any magic items she has may have survived, and conversely, anything she has that survived is magical enough to be potentially useful,"  Scholar says.  "I can prepare Speak With Dead tomorrow, but be aware that the corpse will only answer one question and it can be hard to pin down. I remember one account of an assassin who tried to kill King Aarott of Aundair; when he was questioned with Speak with Dead, he responded to the question 'Who sent you to kill the King?' with 'The one who wanted it done.'" 

If Soren asks her about Gentle Repose, she raises an eyebrow in surprise.  "How long were you planning on keeping this body, and for what? I don't have it prepared today." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna sighs before she begins pacing, thinking while she does so.
 "Why exactly do you not want to talk to him? Neither of you have been clear when I've talked to each of you on this boat trip what grudge you two have against each other..." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "It might have to do with the fact he hit me.  Might also have to do with the fact he is a cheery ass who thinks everyone should be grateful for his presence.  Also maybe the fact I am  not  avoiding him, he just literally disappears.  He can do that." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "It might be worthwhile to stay close enough for an hour or so to search this...Dura's...body when the fire dies down; any magic items she has may have survived, and conversely, anything she has that survived is magical enough to be potentially useful,"  Scholar says.  "I can prepare Speak With Dead tomorrow, but be aware that the corpse will only answer one question and it can be hard to pin down. I remember one account of an assassin who tried to kill King Aarott of Aundair; when he was questioned with Speak with Dead, he responded to the question 'Who sent you to kill the King?' with 'The one who wanted it done.'" 

If Soren asks her about Gentle Repose, she raises an eyebrow in surprise.  "How long were you planning on keeping this body, and for what? I don't have it prepared today."  
 

 "I heard a story in a tavern where someone asked 'Did the spell work?' and the corpse just piped out "Yes"." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "It might have to do with the fact he hit me.  Might also have to do with the fact he is a cheery ass who thinks everyone should be grateful for his presence. Also maybe the fact I am  not  avoiding him, he just literally disappears.  He can do that." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna raises an eyebrow.
 "So am I to understand that you have been purposely trying to talk with him? I will concede that he can disappear. I have noticed he's been able to do that when you enter a room." 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "It might be worthwhile to stay close enough for an hour or so to search this...Dura's...body when the fire dies down; any magic items she has may have survived, and conversely, anything she has that survived is magical enough to be potentially useful,"  Scholar says.  "I can prepare Speak With Dead tomorrow, but be aware that the corpse will only answer one question and it can be hard to pin down. I remember one account of an assassin who tried to kill King Aarott of Aundair; when he was questioned with Speak with Dead, he responded to the question 'Who sent you to kill the King?' with 'The one who wanted it done.'" 

If Soren asks her about Gentle Repose, she raises an eyebrow in surprise.  "How long were you planning on keeping this body, and for what? I don't have it prepared today."  
 

 "Oh you can cast it tomorrow? That's perfect! I mean, I didn't know if you had it so I was thinking that if you couldn't then maybe you could preserve the body until you could so it wouldn't stink up the ship. But only one question? Guess it's a good thing we have a day to think about what to say?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I heard a story in a tavern where someone asked 'Did the spell work?' and the corpse just piped out "Yes"."  
 

 "And not do that,"  Soren follows up.  "I mean it's going to stink for a day but it's not like I can cast it myself--"  He waves his hands over the body.
Athedia
 "Well I am going to wait for the fire to die down so I can find that Dura and that squid and kick their ashes both  really  hard."  Xan huffed and sat down where she was.  After a second she took the book and started reading it.


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna raises an eyebrow.
 "So am I to understand that you have been purposely trying to talk with him? I will concede that he can disappear. I have noticed he's been able to do that when you enter a room." 
 
 
 


 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, no.  But I haven't been actively avoiding him if that's what your asking.  He's just being a jerk.  I don't even care that much, a slap is nothing.  But he could at least drop the nice kid act." 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Well I am going to wait for the fire to die down so I can find that Dura and that squid and kick their ashes both  really  hard."  Xan huffed and sat down where she was.  After a second she took the book and started reading it. 
 

 "Okay. So, looks like the plan is wait for fire to die down and heal up and then see what's left before dragging corpse to ship. In the meantime, should we contact Sur'kil? Let him know what happened and that we *May* have the book we need? And maybe we should have the intellectuals take a look at the book too?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well, no.  But I haven't been actively avoiding him if that's what your asking.  He's just being a jerk.  I don't even care that much, a slap is nothing.  But he could at least drop the nice kid act." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Okay good." 
She then walks over and sits down on her bed. She leaves enough room for Xan to sit down too if she so chooses.
 "So that must mean you've forgiven Twinkletoes for the slap. That was the biggest hurdle I was anxious about." 
She then undoes her ponytail and starts to do it up again. Partially to fix it but also because she was thinking.
 "I can't pretend what goes through Butterflies' mind. But if we, or rather mainly you, figure it out, then we can mend this problem before we land. With our luck, its going to be monsters and fire I bet. In fact, I'd double down on the fire. Kaarna's with us..." 
 
Kish
 "We should go back to the ship for the moment in any event. We're out in the open here; more Emerald Claw agents might show up at any second." 
 
 Spoiler 
Scholar's expressed opinion aside, I need to know whether you're reading the book right there, going back to the ship and doing so, or Other.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Okay. So, looks like the plan is wait for fire to die down and heal up and then see what's left before dragging corpse to ship. In the meantime, should we contact Sur'kil? Let him know what happened and that we *May* have the book we need? And maybe we should have the intellectuals take a look at the book too?" 
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Okay good." 
She then walks over and sits down on her bed. She leaves enough room for Xan to sit down too if she so chooses.
 "So that must mean you've forgiven Twinkletoes for the slap. That was the biggest hurdle I was anxious about." 
She then undoes her ponytail and starts to do it up again. Partially to fix it but also because she was thinking.
 "I can't pretend what goes through Butterflies' mind. But if we, or rather mainly you, figure it out, then we can mend this problem before we land. With our luck, its going to be monsters and fire I bet. In fact, I'd double down on the fire. Kaarna's with us..." 
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "We should go back to the ship for the moment in any event. We're out in the open here; more Emerald Claw agents might show up at any second." 
 
 Spoiler 
Scholar's expressed opinion aside, I need to know whether you're reading the book right there, going back to the ship and doing so, or Other.
 
 
 

Xan groaned and stood up, putting the book away again.   "Fine, you're right.  And no matter what Adrianna thinks, I think one of the intellectuals  was  looking at the book.  The dumb don't live long in my line of work.  In Soren's... well I don't see how the intelligent could stand it."   She started toward the ship, then paused.  She pulled the book out again and held it to Scholar.   "Well...I guess you're the only other one.  It's in your name after all.  It  is  your name." 
Silverraptor
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna kept doing her ponytail. Undoing it and redoing it several times before an idea came to her. It wasn't exactly a happy idea.
 "Uhhhh... Okay. I may have a way you and Soren can exist in the same room together... 
 
Kish
Scholar takes the book and you hurry back to where you left the ship.  "Yes,"  she says levelly.  "I was created during the Last War to gather and store information, both magical and mundane."  She flips through the book and comments,  "This is going to take a while." 

At the ship, the captain greets you.  "Back already? That didn't take as long as I expected." 
Silverraptor
 "We ran into... a problem." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna kept doing her ponytail. Undoing it and redoing it several times before an idea came to her. It wasn't exactly a happy idea.
 "Uhhhh... Okay. I may have a way you and Soren can exist in the same room together... 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "No.  I can pick locks you know! You are NOT handcuffing us together." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Scholar takes the book and you hurry back to where you left the ship.  "Yes,"  she says levelly.  "I was created during the Last War to gather and store information, both magical and mundane."  She flips through the book and comments,  "This is going to take a while." 

At the ship, the captain greets you.  "Back already? That didn't take as long as I expected."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "We ran into... a problem."  
 

 "Hey!"   Xan sulked a little as Scholar took the book from her.   "I  was  reading that." 
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Just a question that popped into my head.  Since the minor shapechange ability lets me take a form as Disguise self and that spell reads that I can make myself "1 foot shorter or taller, thin, fat, or in between." and one of my friends who is about 10 inches shorter than me has different wrists, could a changeling in cuffs (in human form say not the thin changeling form) shift into a smaller human form and slip out of the cuffs?

Any answer is fine, I was just really curious.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "No.  I can pick locks you know! You are NOT handcuffing us together." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna becomes flustered at that statement.
 "I-I didn't mean... that's not...!" 
She takes a deep breath to steady herself.
 "No. That was not the idea I thought of. Besides, handcuffing you to him would be so far out of line, I'd lose Paladin status. No, what I was thinking of was using your shape changing ability. Where you would masquerade as one of us to talk to Soren, pretending to be them and asking him why he and you fought. So you could figure out what is going through his mind and what caused your spat. But then I considered the rest of the group where he might open up and that would just leave Kaarna and Scholar. Kaarna wouldn't even care and Scholar... might not work. We'd also have to explain to either of them to lay low and out of sight so the who doubles thing doesn't happen in mid-conversation. So, lets circumvent them and... I would allow you to pretend to be me to talk to Soren. What do you say?" 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna becomes flustered at that statement.
 "I-I didn't mean... that's not...!" 
She takes a deep breath to steady herself.
 "No. That was not the idea I thought of. Besides, handcuffing you to him would be so far out of line, I'd lose Paladin status. No, what I was thinking of was using your shape changing ability. Where you would masquerade as one of us to talk to Soren, pretending to be them and asking him why he and you fought. So you could figure out what is going through his mind and what caused your spat. But then I considered the rest of the group where he might open up and that would just leave Kaarna and Scholar. Kaarna wouldn't even care and Scholar... might not work. We'd also have to explain to either of them to lay low and out of sight so the who doubles thing doesn't happen in mid-conversation. So, lets circumvent them and... I would allow you to pretend to be me to talk to Soren. What do you say?" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Ugg... you really are obsessed with this play nice thing.  Look, if I do this, do you promise to lay off? No matter the outcome?" 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Ugg... you really are obsessed with this play nice thing.  Look, if I do this, do you promise to lay off? No matter the outcome?" 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Yes. I promise. Though I would prefer if you didn't make him mad at me as well if you can. Annnnnnd... you'll likely have to borrow a set of my clothes to make it convincing." 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan groaned and stood up, putting the book away again.   "Fine, you're right.  And no matter what Adrianna thinks, I think one of the intellectuals  was  looking at the book.  The dumb don't live long in my line of work.  In Soren's... well I don't see how the intelligent could stand it."   She started toward the ship, then paused.  She pulled the book out again and held it to Scholar.   "Well...I guess you're the only other one.  It's in your name after all.  It  is  your name."  
 

 "Well I was going to say something afoot the importance of art and culture but it seams like you're beyond help,"  Soren casually shoots back. There's no venom in it though.
He leans over scholars shoulder as she reads. Can he make out any of it?
Kish
Scholar hands the book back to Xan.  "If you want to take responsibility for it, go ahead. What I saw didn't look terribly interesting." 
 
 Spoiler 
Assuming some PC looks in the book, there's a lot of writing, mostly in a rambling, unfocused style. It'll take someone hours of dedicated reading to distill it into a useful form.

 
 Spoiler: whoever reads it enough to do so 
The writer is one Eliam ir'Veldras, son of a wealthy textiles merchant and self-proclaimed great explorer. He declares his determination to find the lost tomb of the Sarlonian explorer Jheamast, and praises his own brilliance in chartering an airship to avoid the cursed waters around the island, shifting immediately to lamenting the crew's incompetence that caused it to crash in a storm, killing seven members of his 15-member expedition party. Reading between the lines, you're pretty sure the crew all died as well, though he doesn't bother to mention that part. The remainder of the expedition party all died before reaching the tomb except for onea "twitchy and cantankerous" artificer named Thraxis, and apparently by the time they reached the tomb, Eliam and Thraxis had ceased making any efforts to conceal their mutual hostility toward each other. They were unable to get past a stone column Eliam believes marked the tomb's entrance; Thraxis interpreted some of the runes and symbols inscribed on the column and copied the others down, hoping to research their meaning and return.

At that part, you find a section where the pages are torn out. When it picks up again, Eliam describes the path he and Thraxis took to get off the island, commenting smugly that he'll choose his companions better next time. Then he's suddenly complaining that Thraxis stole pages from the journal and is demanding to be included on the second trip. What you have details the path Eliam and Thraxis took away from the tomb, which presumably would lead you to the tomb, but any information on how to get through this mysterious column is notably missing.
 

 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Yes. I promise. Though I would prefer if you didn't make him mad at me as well if you can. Annnnnnd... you'll likely have to borrow a set of my clothes to make it convincing." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well duh."  Xan sighed and shifted into a similar look to Adrianna.   "It will have to be somewhere dark.  And give me your worst fitting stuff, he will probably chalk any difference to you not feeling well.  I can't duplicate exactly."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Well I was going to say something afoot the importance of art and culture but it seams like you're beyond help,"  Soren casually shoots back. There's no venom in it though.
He leans over scholars shoulder as she reads. Can he make out any of it? 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 Scholar hands the book back to Xan.  "If you want to take responsibility for it, go ahead. What I saw didn't look terribly interesting." 
 
 Spoiler 
Assuming some PC looks in the book, there's a lot of writing, mostly in a rambling, unfocused style. It'll take someone hours of dedicated reading to distill it into a useful form.

 
 Spoiler: whoever reads it enough to do so 
The writer is one Eliam ir'Veldras, son of a wealthy textiles merchant and self-proclaimed great explorer. He declares his determination to find the lost tomb of the Sarlonian explorer Jheamast, and praises his own brilliance in chartering an airship to avoid the cursed waters around the island, shifting immediately to lamenting the crew's incompetence that caused it to crash in a storm, killing seven members of his 15-member expedition party. Reading between the lines, you're pretty sure the crew all died as well, though he doesn't bother to mention that part. The remainder of the expedition party all died before reaching the tomb except for onea "twitchy and cantankerous" artificer named Thraxis, and apparently by the time they reached the tomb, Eliam and Thraxis had ceased making any efforts to conceal their mutual hostility toward each other. They were unable to get past a stone column Eliam believes marked the tomb's entrance; Thraxis interpreted some of the runes and symbols inscribed on the column and copied the others down, hoping to research their meaning and return.

At that part, you find a section where the pages are torn out. When it picks up again, Eliam describes the path he and Thraxis took to get off the island, commenting smugly that he'll choose his companions better next time. Then he's suddenly complaining that Thraxis stole pages from the journal and is demanding to be included on the second trip. What you have details the path Eliam and Thraxis took away from the tomb, which presumably would lead you to the tomb, but any information on how to get through this mysterious column is notably missing.
 

 
 
 

 "Well it says how to get to this tomb.  We got this curse in one tomb, a second might have a cure."   She saw Soren looking hovering around the book and pulled it away.   "Bardy, if you have a better idea be my guest." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Well it says how to get to this tomb.  We got this curse in one tomb, a second might have a cure."   She saw Soren looking hovering around the book and pulled it away.   "Bardy, if you have a better idea be my guest."  
 

Kaarna shows no interest in even touching the book.  "Sounds good enough to me. So, where's this second tomb?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well duh."  Xan sighed and shifted into a similar look to Adrianna.   "It will have to be somewhere dark.  And give me your worst fitting stuff, he will probably chalk any difference to you not feeling well.  I can't duplicate exactly."  
 

 "Well it says how to get to this tomb.  We got this curse in one tomb, a second might have a cure."   She saw Soren looking hovering around the book and pulled it away.   "Bardy, if you have a better idea be my guest."  
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna begins digging through he pack for clothing that covers her up the most before handing it to Xan.
 "Here. Though while it may not be exact, you did pull off how I looked pretty well when we first met- well, found out who you really were. Except for the... chest part." 
The last sentence sounded a little bitter and jealous, but it wasn't directed at Xan.
 



Adrianna finishes polishing off her armor before strapping up a few items she might need in her travel bags. She regrets dismissing her horse for the day now as she turns to the rest of the party.
 "I understand most of you may want to call it a day after sustaining serious injuries out there and haven't completely healed yet. But I'm going back to the mansion to see if anything survived. Or if anything else, check the charred remains of the woman on the basement staircase area to make sure she's gone. Anyone want to accompany me?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna begins digging through he pack for clothing that covers her up the most before handing it to Xan.
 "Here. Though while it may not be exact, you did pull off how I looked pretty well when we first met- well, found out who you really were. Except for the... chest part." 
The last sentence sounded a little bitter and jealous, but it wasn't directed at Xan.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "It's like twins.  At first they look the same, but then you spot the differences.  Maybe one has a rounder face, or smiles more.  Maybe the hair parts to a different side, or they don't have the same pattern of freckles.  Pretty dang close, but the differences are subtle.  He won't notice.  But your parents would."  Xan was already shedding her normal clothing and shifting as she spoke.  As Adrianna handed her items she put them on.  Soon she looked as she had said, almost Adrianna, but on second glance the hair was a little darker, her eyes a little more tired looking.  
 


 Adrianna finishes polishing off her armor before strapping up a few items she might need in her travel bags. She regrets dismissing her horse for the day now as she turns to the rest of the party.
 "I understand most of you may want to call it a day after sustaining serious injuries out there and haven't completely healed yet. But I'm going back to the mansion to see if anything survived. Or if anything else, check the charred remains of the woman on the basement staircase area to make sure she's gone. Anyone want to accompany me?"  

Xan put the book away and nodded.   "I want to scatter that bitch's ashes so she can never come back." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "It's like twins.  At first they look the same, but then you spot the differences.  Maybe one has a rounder face, or smiles more.  Maybe the hair parts to a different side, or they don't have the same pattern of freckles.  Pretty dang close, but the differences are subtle.  He won't notice.  But your parents would."  Xan was already shedding her normal clothing and shifting as she spoke.  As Adrianna handed her items she put them on.  Soon she looked as she had said, almost Adrianna, but on second glance the hair was a little darker, her eyes a little more tired looking.  
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna takes a step back and studies Adrianna a minute.
 "Okay, yeah. I see what you mean. Anyways, lets go find Soren." 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan put the book away and nodded.   "I want to scatter that bitch's ashes so she can never come back."  
 

Adrianna nods.
 "Figured you would. Just want to make sure. Are you completely healed up?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Well duh."  Xan sighed and shifted into a similar look to Adrianna.   "It will have to be somewhere dark.  And give me your worst fitting stuff, he will probably chalk any difference to you not feeling well.  I can't duplicate exactly."  
 

 "Well it says how to get to this tomb.  We got this curse in one tomb, a second might have a cure."   She saw Soren looking hovering around the book and pulled it away.   "Bardy, if you have a better idea be my guest."  
 

Soren rolls his eyes at the nickname.  "Other than to find this smarmy jerk and punch him in the face? No." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "It's like twins.  At first they look the same, but then you spot the differences.  Maybe one has a rounder face, or smiles more.  Maybe the hair parts to a different side, or they don't have the same pattern of freckles.  Pretty dang close, but the differences are subtle.  He won't notice.  But your parents would."  Xan was already shedding her normal clothing and shifting as she spoke.  As Adrianna handed her items she put them on.  Soon she looked as she had said, almost Adrianna, but on second glance the hair was a little darker, her eyes a little more tired looking.  
 





Xan put the book away and nodded.   "I want to scatter that bitch's ashes so she can never come back."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna takes a step back and studies Adrianna a minute.
 "Okay, yeah. I see what you mean. Anyways, lets go find Soren." 
 





Adrianna nods.
 "Figured you would. Just want to make sure. Are you completely healed up?"  
 

 "I'm coming along too,"  Soren says as he stretches and dusts himself off. While he does so, he activated the belt and heals some of his and Xan's wounds.

Healing belt on Soren: [roll]d2d8[/roll]
Healing belt on Xan:  (3d8)[ 15 ] 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Should we tell Sur'kil of what happened though?" 

Healing belt on Soren:  (2d8)[ 8 ] 
CWater
 "Fine!",  Kaarna drags herself up from where she was resting,  "Let's go make sure nothing survives the fire." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Should we tell Sur'kil of what happened though?" 

Healing belt on Soren: [roll0] 
 

 "He didn't answer last time, did he?",  Kaarna shrugs,  "The Claw's probably got to him. But by all means, send a message if you wish." 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren 
You recognize the name Thraxis as that of an infamous gnome from Port Verge, with strong connections to a group of pirates called the Sea Wyverns. If you wanted to look for him, the logical place would be Port Verge.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren stops in his tracks. He slaps his palm to his forehead and groans out loud.  "Thraxis, I've heard that name before. And not in a good way. He's a pirate, or at least in cahoots with a bunch of pirates called the Sea Wyverns. Because of course we have To deal with pirates now. I think they operate out of Port Verge." 
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
So where's Port Verge?
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren 
Port Verge is a small town on the southern tip of Questor Island in the Lhazaar Principalities. It is governed by Prince Kolberkon and is the seat of the Principality of the Diresharks.

Prince Kolberkon, in an attempt to surpass Prince Rygar of the Seadragons Principality and his seat of Regalport in importance, is negotiating deals with the Emerald Claw and House Lyrandar for funds and infrastucture.
 
CWater
Kaarna rises an eyebrow, the gesture clearly directed at Soren.  "What are you babbling about now?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna rises an eyebrow, the gesture clearly directed at Soren.  "What are you babbling about now?"  
 

 "Thraxis was one of the adventurers in that journal and he's now a pirate in Port...Verge...Oh **** me!"  Soren shouts as he remembers the rest.  "****, ****, ****! The prince that runs that town? Prince Kolberkon of the Diresharks? Yeah, he's trying to get more power by negotiating with people. Including house Lyandar. Oh, and the Emerald Claw."   
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Thraxis was one of the adventurers in that journal and he's now a pirate in Port...Verge...Oh **** me!"  Soren shouts as he remembers the rest.  "****, ****, ****! The prince that runs that town? Prince Kolberkon of the Diresharks? Yeah, he's trying to get more power by negotiating with people. Including house Lyandar. Oh, and the Emerald Claw."    
 

 "Seriously?  How do they even have that kind of political power!"   Xan swore and kicked the floor.   "I second Kaarna, lets make sure the fire burnt that place down and then we need to find this Thraxis." 

 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna takes a step back and studies Adrianna a minute.
 "Okay, yeah. I see what you mean. Anyways, lets go find Soren." 
 

[/COLOR] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "And make sure no-one else sees me." 
 
 Spoiler: Silver/Coffee 
Skip ahead to whenever works
 

 
Silverraptor
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna set her self several paces in front of Xan, looking for Soren. After an initial close call with a member of the crew arriving around the corner, to see 2 "Adrianna's", she suggested to Xan to hold off looking like her until they found Soren. After searching the top deck and not finding him, the next place to look would be his cabin, and then the mess hall in case he was trying to schmooze himself a snack from there before the next meal. When Adrianna spots him, she'll dive back, let Xan know so she can shapeshift, and then hang around close by. Not close enough to hear anything they might be saying, but close enough that she'll be able to recognize shouting and intervene if she needed to.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Thraxis was one of the adventurers in that journal and he's now a pirate in Port...Verge...Oh **** me!"  Soren shouts as he remembers the rest.  "****, ****, ****! The prince that runs that town? Prince Kolberkon of the Diresharks? Yeah, he's trying to get more power by negotiating with people. Including house Lyandar. Oh, and the Emerald Claw."    
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Seriously?  How do they even have that kind of political power!"   Xan swore and kicked the floor.   "I second Kaarna, lets make sure the fire burnt that place down and then we need to find this Thraxis."  
 

Kaarna looks unfazed.  "Why does anyone have power?",  she shrugs.

The reminder to make sure things burn spreads a smile to her face,  "Yesss, let's make sure they're all properly crisp." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Seriously?  How do they even have that kind of political power!"   Xan swore and kicked the floor.   "I second Kaarna, lets make sure the fire burnt that place down and then we need to find this Thraxis." 
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "And make sure no-one else sees me." 
 
 Spoiler: Silver/Coffee 
Skip ahead to whenever works
 

 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna looks unfazed.  "Why does anyone have power?",  she shrugs. 
 

 "I don't knew, probably money? Still were gonna have to disguise ourselves, hopefully there won't be as much fire and just ****ing dammit! I don't care about fame or money right now. I just don't want to  die! "  The last few words come out in a tumbled tangled rush.


 The reminder to make sure things burn spreads a smile to her face,  "Yesss, let's make sure they're all properly crisp."  

 "Agreed, but don't forget your breathing and happy thought exercises,"  he attempts to tease back, trying to cover up his earlier slip.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback  
Soren is still avoiding Xan, but the two women catch a glimpse of his maroon hair as he heads back to his cavern.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "I don't knew, probably money? Still were gonna have to disguise ourselves, hopefully there won't be as much fire and just ****ing dammit! I don't care about fame or money right now. I just don't want to  die! "  The last few words come out in a tumbled tangled rush.  
 

 "None of us do, kiddo",  Kaarna says and wraps her arm around Soren's shoulders,  "And we won't. These stupid marks won't kill us."  The witch looks determined.


  "Agreed, but don't forget your breathing and happy thought exercises,"  he attempts to tease back, trying to cover up his earlier slip.  

 "Oh, I shall not",  Kaarna grins,  "Oh, the calming smell of fresh ash and smoke..." 
Kish
The Vorgaard Estate seems to have stopped burning--what's left of it.

Poking through the shell of the burned-out mansion, near where you left the woman you suspect your later enemy called Dura, you find her charred corpse. Her armor is intact; examining it more closely, you recognize it as a mithral breastplate. Her red leather boots are, similarly, undamaged. Nothing else of value is immediately evident; she's quite thoroughly and gruesomely dead.
Athedia
Xan kicked the body and grabbed the boots, shaking charred foot out of them.  Giving Adrianna a look she shrugged.  "What?  She isn't going to be using them and she did try to kill us.  You could probably use her breastplate, unless your order has rules against that kinda thing.  But in my mind, rules are suspended, we are on a death sentence anyway." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna shrugged.
 "I said nothing. Carry on. 
Adrianna then works her way around Xan and the charred body further downstairs if able.

 
 Spoiler: Wondering 
What happened to the zombie squid?
 
Kish
The charred stairs creak ominously as Adrianna's weight lands on them.

 
 Spoiler 
The part of the mansion past where you fought isn't the worst burned--that would be off to the northwest. The stairs don't seem safe, though, least of all to the heavily armored Adrianna.
 
CoffeeIncluded
[QUOTE=CWater;21829213] "None of us do, kiddo",  Kaarna says and wraps her arm around Soren's shoulders,  "And we won't. These stupid marks won't kill us."  The witch looks determined.[quote]

Soren returns the gesture, pulling her closer so nobody else can hear him.  "Thanks,"  he says, quiet with his voice shaking in an attempt not to break down.  "No, we can't let them." 

  "Oh, I shall not",  Kaarna grins,  "Oh, the calming smell of fresh ash and smoke..."  

 "That wasn't exactly what I meant, but...okay...

Kaarna, is there anything else that makes you happy other than curses and fire?"  he teases.


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The Vorgaard Estate seems to have stopped burning--what's left of it.

Poking through the shell of the burned-out mansion, near where you left the woman you suspect your later enemy called Dura, you find her charred corpse. Her armor is intact; examining it more closely, you recognize it as a mithral breastplate. Her red leather boots are, similarly, undamaged. Nothing else of value is immediately evident; she's quite thoroughly and gruesomely dead. 
 

Soren stares at the corpse of Dura, and Frustration and fury bubbles over into rage.  "And stay dead!"  he shouts, kicking her head and sending bits of charred skin flying. He draws his leg back for another kick, then pauses and plants his foot back on the ground, staring at her charred remains for a little while longer. He then bends down and pulls the Mithral breastplate off of her.

 "If I can wear this, it's mine.  

 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna shrugged.
 "I said nothing. Carry on. 
Adrianna then works her way around Xan and the charred body further downstairs if able. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The charred stairs creak ominously as Adrianna's weight lands on them.

 
 Spoiler 
The part of the mansion past where you fought isn't the worst burned--that would be off to the northwest. The stairs don't seem safe, though, least of all to the heavily armored Adrianna.
 
 
 

Soren follows Adrianna, close enough that he can put a hand on her shoulder when he hears the charred wood creak.  "Let me try? I think my armors a bit lighter. " 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "That wasn't exactly what I meant, but...okay...

Kaarna, is there anything else that makes you happy other than curses and fire?"  he teases. 
 

 "Of course, the screams of my enemies."  The witch grins, her canines showing.


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna shrugged.
 "I said nothing. Carry on. 
Adrianna then works her way around Xan and the charred body further downstairs if able.

 
 Spoiler: Wondering 
What happened to the zombie squid?
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The charred stairs creak ominously as Adrianna's weight lands on them.

 
 Spoiler 
The part of the mansion past where you fought isn't the worst burned--that would be off to the northwest. The stairs don't seem safe, though, least of all to the heavily armored Adrianna.
 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren follows Adrianna, close enough that he can put a hand on her shoulder when he hears the charred wood creak.  "Let me try? I think my armors a bit lighter. "  
 

Kaarna stands nearby, lazily poking the rubble with her foot, and definitely not mentioning that she's small, wears no armour and can even fly.  "Don't break your necks there." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren follows Adrianna, close enough that he can put a hand on her shoulder when he hears the charred wood creak.  "Let me try? I think my armors a bit lighter. "  
 

 "I'm sure you are, but I'd feel more comfortable someone even lighter went down there. Tat or the ability to make us magically lighter..." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "I'm sure you are, but I'd feel more comfortable someone even lighter went down there. Tat or the ability to make us magically lighter..."  
 

Xan walked over, standing a good amount back.  She cleared her throat and raised a finger.   "Umm...If I recall...One of us can fly." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "I'm sure you are, but I'd feel more comfortable someone even lighter went down there. Tat or the ability to make us magically lighter..."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan walked over, standing a good amount back.  She cleared her throat and raised a finger.   "Umm...If I recall...One of us can fly."  
 

 "Wha? You looking at me?"  Kaarna stares at the charred stairs.  "You mean I need to go down? What do you expect to find there anyway?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Of course, the screams of my enemies."  The witch grins, her canines showing. 
 

Soren simply rolls his eyes and snorts.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Wha? You looking at me?"  Kaarna stares at the charred stairs.  "You mean I need to go down? What do you expect to find there anyway?"  
 

 "Oh...right."  he rubs the back of his neck at Xan's reminder.  "And Kaarna, I dunno, maybe more enemies you can make scream?" 
CoffeeIncluded
While everyone else is figuring out what to do Soren buckles on the breastplate and inspects both it and the shoes.

 
 Spoiler: Everyone 
Is it ok if Soren takes the breastplate? Also he's gonna check both the breastplate and the boots for magic and what kind of magic.

Detect magic and Spellcraft on the breastplate:  (d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Datect magic and spellcraft on the shoes:  (d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren 
You detect a faint aura of abjuration around the breastplate. Surprisingly, nothing around the boots.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren simply rolls his eyes and snorts.

 "Oh...right."  he rubs the back of his neck at Xan's reminder.  "And Kaarna, I dunno, maybe more enemies you can make scream?"  
 

 "Still kicking after the fire? I hope not",  Kaarna snorts.  "But seriously",  she turns to Adriannna,  "What would you look for down there?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Still kicking after the fire? I hope not",  Kaarna snorts.  "But seriously",  she turns to Adriannna,  "What would you look for down there?"  
 

Adrianna addresses Kaarna.
 "I don't know. But the room is underground and likely protected from the fire. If anything of value did survive, this would be the place left in this burned down mansion for it to have survived. Just want to check that we didn't leave anything behind we may need before moving on." 
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna catches a glimpse of Soren rounding a corner and out of sight. She tilts her head slightly towards Xan, but keeps an eye on where she last saw him.
 "I think I saw him. It looks like he may be heading back to his room. Are you ready for this?" 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna addresses Kaarna.
 "I don't know. But the room is underground and likely protected from the fire. If anything of value did survive, this would be the place left in this burned down mansion for it to have survived. Just want to check that we didn't leave anything behind we may need before moving on." 
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna catches a glimpse of Soren rounding a corner and out of sight. She tilts her head slightly towards Xan, but keeps an eye on where she last saw him.
 "I think I saw him. It looks like he may be heading back to his room. Are you ready for this?" 
 
 
 

 "Also, what if someone hid down there are you let them escape Kaarna?  Could you forgive yourself?"  Xan's voice was rather obviously laced with sarcasm.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "No."   With that Xan shifted and walked into the room.  Clearing her throat, she spoke.   "Sor-*cough*  Soren, are you free for a quick talk? " 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna addresses Kaarna.
 "I don't know. But the room is underground and likely protected from the fire. If anything of value did survive, this would be the place left in this burned down mansion for it to have survived. Just want to check that we didn't leave anything behind we may need before moving on." 
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Adrianna catches a glimpse of Soren rounding a corner and out of sight. She tilts her head slightly towards Xan, but keeps an eye on where she last saw him.
 "I think I saw him. It looks like he may be heading back to his room. Are you ready for this?" 
 
 
 

 "Bleh, fine. I'll go take look",  Kaarna activates her flight again and floats down the stairs surveying the surroundings.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Also, what if someone hid down there are you let them escape Kaarna?  Could you forgive yourself?"  Xan's voice was rather obviously laced with sarcasm.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "No."   With that Xan shifted and walked into the room.  Clearing her throat, she spoke.   "Sor-*cough*  Soren, are you free for a quick talk? " 
 
 
 

 "I don't know, that much resistance is almost worthy of respect",  the witch replies smirking.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Soren 
You detect a faint aura of abjuration around the breastplate. Surprisingly, nothing around the boots.
 
 
 

 "Huh...Hey guys, anyone want some asbestos boots?"  Soren asks, waving them around.  "They're not magic, but still fireproof? Oh, Scholar, can you tell what kind of abjuration is on this breastplate?" 
 
 Spoiler: Bardic Knowledge 
Any way to use this to know what the boots are?
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Still kicking after the fire? I hope not",  Kaarna snorts.  "But seriously",  she turns to Adriannna,  "What would you look for down there?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna addresses Kaarna.
 "I don't know. But the room is underground and likely protected from the fire. If anything of value did survive, this would be the place left in this burned down mansion for it to have survived. Just want to check that we didn't leave anything behind we may need before moving on."  
 

Soren shrugs.  "Survivors, more treasure, maybe another secret tunnel that for some reason everyone but me can see? Hopefully survivors, as long as they're not zombie squid or emerald claw. Though...well, maybe we can get calamari or something from that thing? It is kinda charred right now,"  he adds with a nervous laugh.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Also, what if someone hid down there are you let them escape Kaarna?  Could you forgive yourself?"  Xan's voice was rather obviously laced with sarcasm.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "No."   With that Xan shifted and walked into the room.  Clearing her throat, she spoke.   "Sor-*cough*  Soren, are you free for a quick talk? " 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Soren is sitting behind a stack of barrels where he can have some privacy;
 Xan finds him poking the mark on his chest. He startles and turns around, relaxing when he sees Adrianna's face.

 "Wuh? Oh, yeah I'm free." 
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "I was...that is...look you and m-Xan.  We need to talk." 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "...What is it?"  His voice is now wary, his body language just a bit guarded.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 [COLOR="#FF0000"]
Soren shrugs.  "Survivors, more treasure, maybe another secret tunnel that for some reason everyone but me can see? Hopefully survivors, as long as they're not zombie squid or emerald claw. Though...well, maybe we can get calamari or something from that thing? It is kinda charred right now,"  he adds with a nervous laugh. 
 

Adrianna grimaces.
 "Really? Would you order Calamari at a restaurant if you knew it was once a zombie first?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna grimaces.
 "Really? Would you order Calamari at a restaurant if you knew it was once a zombie first?"  
 

 "Depends. Did that zombie calamari try to kill me, and how much has Kaarna sold me on the idea of revenge that day?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "...What is it?"  His voice is now wary, his body language just a bit guarded.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Xan's eyes adjust to the scene, finally processing what Soren had been doing.  "Were you just poke.... I just want to know your problem with her.  We are all in the same boat here...literally and figuratively."   She leaned against the pole and looked at his mark.   "Or..have you at least made some progress?" 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Depends. Did that zombie calamari try to kill me, and how much has Kaarna sold me on the idea of revenge that day?"  
 

Adrianna stares at Soren for a moment before slowly looking away.
 "Okaaaay then... I prefer my meal to have died and NOT been injected with magic of necromancy. So, you know, not after it started moving the second time." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Depends. Did that zombie calamari try to kill me, and how much has Kaarna sold me on the idea of revenge that day?"  
 

 "Haha! See, he's learning!",  Kaarna shouts back.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren 
You can only tell the obvious: If the boots aren't magical, they must be made of some completely fireproof leather.
 


Kaarna floats down to the door the woman emerged from. It's still standing, though badly burned and warped; it looks like it will fall over at a touch, and might take the wall with it.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna stares at Soren for a moment before slowly looking away.
 "Okaaaay then... I prefer my meal to have died and NOT been injected with magic of necromancy. So, you know, not after it started moving the second time."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Haha! See, he's learning!",  Kaarna shouts back. 
 

Soren just looks at the two women. His poker face crumbles as he begins to crack up in a fit of giggles.


 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Soren 
You can only tell the obvious: If the boots aren't magical, they must be made of some completely fireproof leather.
 


Kaarna floats down to the door the woman emerged from. It's still standing, though badly burned and warped; it looks like it will fall over at a touch, and might take the wall with it. 
 

Well, if it's fireproof red leather then...Soren mentally slaps himself.  "Hey Xan, want some dragon skin boots?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Well, if it's fireproof red leather then...Soren mentally slaps himself.  "Hey Xan, want some dragon skin boots?"  
 

 "I  had  been admiring them, yes."   Xan took the boots from Soren.   "After a wash to get dead person out." 

She looked at the ashes for a few moments.   "I survived the fall...would that or this have been worse?"   She turned and started back to the ship.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I  had  been admiring them, yes."   Xan took the boots from Soren.   "After a wash to get dead person out." 

Soren looks down at his breastplate, which...smells disturbingly like bacon, now that he thinks about it. He shudders.  "I should probably join you." 

She looked at the ashes for a few moments.   "I survived the fall...would that or this have been worse?"   She turned and started back to the ship. 
 

 "...I'd say fire's worse, but it's what's after."  He turns and follows Xan back to the ship.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Soren sheepishly looks at Adrianna and rubs his now sore head with one hand while tugging up his tunic with the other.

 "No, I don't think so. Well, other than that it bleeds when I cut it. Don't ask."  He's ignoring the first question for the moment.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "...I'd say fire's worse, but it's what's after."  He turns and follows Xan back to the ship.

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Soren sheepishly looks at Adrianna and rubs his now sore head with one hand while tugging up his tunic with the other.

 "No, I don't think so. Well, other than that it bleeds when I cut it. Don't ask."  He's ignoring the first question for the moment.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
"You cut-?" Xan shook her head.  This wasn't what Adrianna had told her to talk about, crazy bards aside.  Though, she had spotted his chest before he managed to pull up the tunic.  A slight impressed look quirked across her face, before she turned to pointedly look at the ceiling. "Look, I just came to ask you one question.  Then I will leave you alone.  What exactly is your problem with Xan?"
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna watches the bard and rogue leave, but remains. She wanted to make sure that whatever important down there that survived came up intact. Oh, and Kaarna too.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler: Flashback  

Soren catches the look Adrianna gives him and allows himself a smile. Although she's what, sixteen? That's a bit skeevy honestly for him to do anything.

The next question jolts him away from that train of thought though, as he looks at her. "That's random. Any reason you decided to ask this now?"
"Is it the mediating thing you said a few days ago?" he asks, remembering the conversation.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback  

Soren catches the look Adrianna gives him and allows himself a smile. Although she's what, sixteen? That's a bit skeevy honestly for him to do anything.

The next question jolts him away from that train of thought though, as he looks at her. "That's random. Any reason you decided to ask this now?"
"Is it the mediating thing you said a few days ago?" he asks, remembering the conversation.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
"Because-." Shoot what would Adrianna say.  Xan decided to go with a paraphrase of what she had been told.  "Exactly.  I can't keep running interference.  Someone needs to be a grown up." Xan mentally winced.  Well these days not many people could afford to not grow up.  And even Xan had to admit that Adrianna took to leadership well.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Soren 
You can only tell the obvious: If the boots aren't magical, they must be made of some completely fireproof leather.
 


Kaarna floats down to the door the woman emerged from. It's still standing, though badly burned and warped; it looks like it will fall over at a touch, and might take the wall with it. 
 

Kaarna is careful not to touch anything, only glide through the air. She casts Detect Magic and scans the area with this improved sight, but does not otherwise go poke at anything.  "Optimistic younglings",  she mutters,  "I bet 2 gold that there's nothing here." 
  I'll take that,   Veca says, scurrying down her sleeve to glance around.

  You have no money.  
  Then lets call it a dept. IF I lose.  

Kaarna snorts.
Kish
From what little Kaarna can see through the warped but still-closed door, on the other side of the door is, or rather was, a library. If anything is still intact, it's not visible from this side of the door.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
"Because-." Shoot what would Adrianna say.  Xan decided to go with a paraphrase of what she had been told.  "Exactly.  I can't keep running interference.  Someone needs to be a grown up." Xan mentally winced.  Well these days not many people could afford to not grow up.  And even Xan had to admit that Adrianna took to leadership well.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Soren laughs, although there's a wince with it. "Well that was harsh. Although honestly I'm pretty embarrassed too. I mean, I've always been fantastic at the whole talking to people bit, but it's like every time I try with Xan something gets screwed up."
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Soren laughs, although there's a wince with it. "Well that was harsh. Although honestly I'm pretty embarrassed too. I mean, I've always been fantastic at the whole talking to people bit, but it's like every time I try with Xan something gets screwed up."
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
"Well, you do try to find fault with everything she says.  And you haven't stopped trying to make her uncomfortable since you met."  Xan blushed a little while remembering the remarks he had made about her Rapheal form.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 From what little Kaarna can see through the warped but still-closed door, on the other side of the door is, or rather was, a library. If anything is still intact, it's not visible from this side of the door. 
 

 "Hmh",  Kaarna pushes the door forward, to see if it moves.
Kish
The door creaks and leans forward. It looks like enough pressure would make it either open or fall over; it's not clear whether the ceiling would fall down then.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The door creaks and leans forward. It looks like enough pressure would make it either open or fall over; it's not clear whether the ceiling would fall down then. 
 

 "Eh, not worth the trouble",  Kaarna decides and turns back. She takes one more look if she should spot the corpse of the lead woman, the others had wanted it before for whatever weird purposes. If she finds nothing, she'll return up.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
"Well, you do try to find fault with everything she says.  And you haven't stopped trying to make her uncomfortable since you met."  Xan blushed a little while remembering the remarks he had made about her Rapheal form.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Hey, it's not like I knew Raphael was Xan. And besides, that **** was hilarious. And you know I wasn't actually going to do anything she didn't want to do. Seriously, I don't do that sort of thing. Getting a rise out of people can be hilarious but there is a point to stop." 

He frowns.  "But the first thing, she's been nothing but a huge jerk since we met, and incredibly unsympathhetic too."  He waves his hand in the air.  "I mean, what she said about the rest of the troupe...She didn't need to say that stuff, about how they were morons for staying. Nobody knew what was going to happen! We didn't get a sign! I mean, Blake did but that's the thing that got him the mark! The rest were my friends, and to hear her call my friends idiots for dying to something that nobody saw coming when we were just trying to bring a smile to peoples' faces during that awful hundred year war was really...really not nice to hear." 
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
 "Hey, it's not like I knew Raphael was Xan. And besides, that **** was hilarious. And you know I wasn't actually going to do anything she didn't want to do. Seriously, I don't do that sort of thing. Getting a rise out of people can be hilarious but there is a point to stop." 

He frowns.  "But the first thing, she's been nothing but a huge jerk since we met, and incredibly unsympathhetic too."  He waves his hand in the air.  "I mean, what she said about the rest of the troupe...She didn't need to say that stuff, about how they were morons for staying. Nobody knew what was going to happen! We didn't get a sign! I mean, Blake did but that's the thing that got him the mark! The rest were my friends, and to hear her call my friends idiots for dying to something that nobody saw coming when we were just trying to bring a smile to peoples' faces during that awful hundred year war was really...really not nice to hear." 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Xan was a little taken aback.  "You know that doesn't make it right.  Even if you thought she was a man." She bit her tongue, holding back the tirade she wanted to shout at Soren.  If he figured out that Adrianna was upstairs, and that the girl was in on this, he would be even madder.  She took a couple deep breathes, focusing internally.  "Maybe-. Maybe she isn't used to people.  Or maybe she doesn't understand that connection.  She- she hasn't had anyone to trust in a while."
 
Kish
You make your way out of the charred mansion and back to the ship. Scholar greets you there.

 "It sounds like our best bet is to track down this Thraxis,"  she says.  "Apparently we need to get into this tomb, and it sounds like he is the only one who might know a way through a barrier that neither of the two previous groups could get through." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You make your way out of the charred mansion and back to the ship. Scholar greets you there.

 "It sounds like our best bet is to track down this Thraxis,"  she says.  "Apparently we need to get into this tomb, and it sounds like he is the only one who might know a way through a barrier that neither of the two previous groups could get through."  
 

 "Then that's our goal.  Any idea of where to start looking?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You make your way out of the charred mansion and back to the ship. Scholar greets you there.

 "It sounds like our best bet is to track down this Thraxis,"  she says.  "Apparently we need to get into this tomb, and it sounds like he is the only one who might know a way through a barrier that neither of the two previous groups could get through."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Then that's our goal.  Any idea of where to start looking?"  
 

 "At the Emerald Claw's newest playground. Hooray."  Soren rolls his eyes.

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Flashback 
Xan was a little taken aback.  "You know that doesn't make it right.  Even if you thought she was a man." She bit her tongue, holding back the tirade she wanted to shout at Soren.  If he figured out that Adrianna was upstairs, and that the girl was in on this, he would be even madder.  She took a couple deep breathes, focusing internally.  "Maybe-. Maybe she isn't used to people.  Or maybe she doesn't understand that connection.  She- she hasn't had anyone to trust in a while."
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: flashback 
Sorens stance is suddenly defensive and he splutters a bit, but then folds his arms and furrows his brows guiltily.  "I didn't mean any harm by it but if she really hates it that much I won't do it again."

The second thing Adrianna says makes him pause. Soren looks at Adrianna with an odd expression. "Maybe, but it's not like I'd automatically know that. It was personal, talking about that. It still hurts and ot hear her be so dismissive of it was extremely hurtful too. It was like a slap in the face. And I was still angry from before and very frustrated and honestly I'm really scared too. and I bet she is.
 
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "At the Emerald Claw's newest playground. Hooray."  Soren rolls his eyes. 
 

 "Hey, cheer up, kid!",  Kaarna throws a hand over Soren's shoulder and shakes him, in a manner that she considers friendly,  "Think of how many of your enemies you get to kill! It'll be good for you!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Hey, cheer up, kid!",  Kaarna throws a hand over Soren's shoulder and shakes him, in a manner that she considers friendly,  "Think of how many of your enemies you get to kill! It'll be good for you!"  
 

Soren returns the shake with a more clearly friendly shoulder bump.  "You're twisted, has anyone mentioned that to you? Or lived to tell about it?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren returns the shake with a more clearly friendly shoulder bump.  "You're twisted, has anyone mentioned that to you? Or lived to tell about it?"  
 

 "Well, it was nice knowing you Soren." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren returns the shake with a more clearly friendly shoulder bump.  "You're twisted, has anyone mentioned that to you? Or lived to tell about it?"  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Well, it was nice knowing you Soren."  
 

Kaarna lets out an ominous cackle.  "Of course I'm crooked, I'm an evil witch, haven't you been paying attention."  She grins.  "But don't you two worry, I owe you both." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna leads the others up to where the Captain is.
 "Well, it looks like we have a new destination to head out to." 
Kish
 "And where would that be?"  the captain asks neutrally.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "And where would that be?"  the captain asks neutrally. 
 

 "Some pirate place called Port Verge, that won't be a problem, will it?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Well, it was nice knowing you Soren."  
 

Soren simply shrugs.  "Don't ask me why, but she seems to like me. Not sure if it's genuine or if she's trying to fatten me up for the oven." 

 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna lets out an ominous cackle.  "Of course I'm crooked, I'm an evil witch, haven't you been paying attention."  She grins.  "But don't you two worry, I owe you both."  
 

 "Well, thank you."  Soren's laugh is much less ominous.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Some pirate place called Port Verge, that won't be a problem, will it?"  
 

Soren looks up, fiddling with the new breastplate and making sure it fits just right (what's the enchantment on it?).  "What do you know about this port?" 
Kish
 "It's a safe port for ships from all over. I stay out of politics there. Don't bring the whole place down on my ship; I can get you there."  He turns to give orders to the crew, and the ship sets sail.

**************************************************  **************************************************  ************************************

By day, the port buzzes with the usual shuffle of sailors, merchants, and vendors. All large ships are moored out in the harbor to avoid the port’s shallow waters and strong tides. Only dories and other shallow-bottomed boats are able to dock near shore. The locals make a decent living for themselves running small launch services, ferrying passengers, sailors, and equipment to and from ships out in the cove. Gulls on the wharf swoop in and around skiffs bringing in their loads of freshly caught fish, eels, and reef clams. Farther inland, timber-frame and shingled seaside homes lie in scattered clusters, their whitewash peeling from the harsh sea winds. Cobbled streets weave between them, their crooked signposts directing a steady flow of oceanborne transients seeking warm meals and hot baths after months at sea.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I don't remember at this point whether you'd had the breastplate identified, but if you haven't Scholar certainly can identify it on the trip there; it's a mithral breastplate +1.
 
CWater
Kaarna doesn't stay to wait being rowed ashore, she wanted away from these infernal waters and the nausea that never left.  "See you in the harbor!",  she yells to the others and takes flight, crossing the more swallow waters. She looks for a adequate near the shore to land on.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "It's a safe port for ships from all over. I stay out of politics there. Don't bring the whole place down on my ship; I can get you there."  He turns to give orders to the crew, and the ship sets sail. 
 

 "No burning down the port. Or aciding down the port. Got it, I'll tell Kaarna." 

 **************************************************  **************************************************  ************************************ 

On the ship, in between bouts of seasickness, Soren tries to calm himself down and talk to everyone. One windy night as the salt sprays on the decks and both he and Kaarna are bent over the railing emptying their dinner, the bard catches Scholar out of the corner of her eye.  "Lucky you,"  he mutters, his face green.  "I doubt you get seasick, do you? Urrgh...Haven't seen Xan or Adrianna either. You're made of wood and metal; what's their excuse?" 

 By day, the port buzzes with the usual shuffle of sailors, merchants, and vendors. All large ships are moored out in the harbor to avoid the port’s shallow waters and strong tides. Only dories and other shallow-bottomed boats are able to dock near shore. The locals make a decent living for themselves running small launch services, ferrying passengers, sailors, and equipment to and from ships out in the cove. Gulls on the wharf swoop in and around skiffs bringing in their loads of freshly caught fish, eels, and reef clams. Farther inland, timber-frame and shingled seaside homes lie in scattered clusters, their whitewash peeling from the harsh sea winds. Cobbled streets weave between them, their crooked signposts directing a steady flow of oceanborne transients seeking warm meals and hot baths after months at sea.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I don't remember at this point whether you'd had the breastplate identified, but if you haven't Scholar certainly can identify it on the trip there; it's a mithral breastplate +1.
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Breastplate 
Well it's mine now. Thanks!
 


Soren would have liked to be standing at the bow of the ship, wind dramatically billowing his hair, scarf, and robes. He would have loved to make a cinematic entrance like the ones lovingly described in paintings, plays, and stories. Instead, his legs are wobbly and he's fighting off a wave of nausea and just wants to be on dry land. And take an actual bath and an actual meal.  "Wait for me,
 Kaarna!"  he cries as the witch takes off.


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna doesn't stay to wait being rowed ashore, she wanted away from these infernal waters and the nausea that never left.  "See you in the harbor!",  she yells to the others and takes flight, crossing the more swallow waters. She looks for a adequate near the shore to land on. 
 

 "What, you couldn't carry me? You really are an evil witch!"  Soren shouts from the decks.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "What, you couldn't carry me? You really are an evil witch!"  Soren shouts from the decks. 
 

 "Your butt is too heavy!",  the witch shouts back as she leaves.  "Find someone else to haul you!" 
Athedia
A scruffy crewman joins Soren at the bow.   "I've seen better looking drowners." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna dresses moderately in her clothing with a small travel pack and her sword sheathed at her side. She emerges from the hold of the ship to see Kaarna begin flying towards land.
 "Oh damn. Looks like we'll be pulling into a city already razed by fire..." 
Kish
The five of you reunite on land. Scholar draws suspicious looks; the rest of you draw comparatively less attention, at least as soon as you're away from the docks and people who saw one of you flying.

It's a small town, but bustles with activity, and significantly more of the population seem the rough-and-tumble type than in Sharn.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
If you (mainly looking at Soren) want to ask around for information about Thraxis, pirates, the Emerald Claw, or any other concepts that come to mind, go ahead and make Diplomacy checks to gather information.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Your butt is too heavy!",  the witch shouts back as she leaves.  "Find someone else to haul you!"  
 

 "And now you're calling me fat? Aren't you witches the ones with gingerbread houses?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 A scruffy crewman joins Soren at the bow.   "I've seen better looking drowners."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna dresses moderately in her clothing with a small travel pack and her sword sheathed at her side. She emerges from the hold of the ship to see Kaarna begin flying towards land.
 "Oh damn. Looks like we'll be pulling into a city already razed by fire..."  
 

Soren snorts into his hand.  "Better get the bucket brigade ready then?" 

 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 The five of you reunite on land. Scholar draws suspicious looks; the rest of you draw comparatively less attention, at least as soon as you're away from the docks and people who saw one of you flying.

It's a small town, but bustles with activity, and significantly more of the population seem the rough-and-tumble type than in Sharn.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
If you (mainly looking at Soren) want to ask around for information about Thraxis, pirates, the Emerald Claw, or any other concepts that come to mind, go ahead and make Diplomacy checks to gather information.
 
 
 

Soren's legs are wobbly, and he flops down on a nearby bench, hugging a tree that grows next to it and provides shade. He spends some time just taking in the scene, grinning at the sight of the people.  "Anyone else want to go people watching with me? Or people talking?
 'Cause I'm going to the bars pretty soon." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren's legs are wobbly, and he flops down on a nearby bench, hugging a tree that grows next to it and provides shade. He spends some time just taking in the scene, grinning at the sight of the people.  "Anyone else want to go people watching with me? Or people talking?
 'Cause I'm going to the bars pretty soon."  
 

Kaarna lands next to the group.  "Do you  want  me along?"  She grins with her canines showing.
Silverraptor
 "I think it might be a little early to drink there, Soren. So other than the 'bars', where else would we look to find our information?" 
Athedia
Xan was dressed like a deckhand, causally picking at her nails with a dagger.   "Try the market, or docks." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna lands next to the group.  "Do you  want  me along?"  She grins with her canines showing. 
 

Soren simply shrugs.  "I dunno, Kaarna. There's a lot of people out there who would like nothing more than to be at your mercy. I'm actually not one of them--sorry to burst your bubble--but I can definitely set you up with people if you want." 

 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan was dressed like a deckhand, causally picking at her nails with a dagger.   "Try the market, or docks."  
 

 "That's a good idea--traveling performing troupes are also good; we tend to pick up on rumors pretty fast. Maybe we split up and come back here in a few hours? Set something on fire if things go wrong which honestly would be likely anyway?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren simply shrugs.  "I dunno, Kaarna. There's a lot of people out there who would like nothing more than to be at your mercy. I'm actually not one of them--sorry to burst your bubble--but I can definitely set you up with people if you want."  
 

 "Ha!",  Kaarna grabs Soren to a headlock and ruffles his hair (flying again so she can reach that high),  "Oh, kiddo, you'll  never  be ready for that."  The witch cackles.


  "That's a good idea--traveling performing troupes are also good; we tend to pick up on rumors pretty fast. Maybe we split up and come back here in a few hours? Set something on fire if things go wrong which honestly would be likely anyway?"  

 "Sounds reasonable!",  Kaarna releases Soren,  "So! Who dares to come with me and who wants to babysit him so he doesn't hit the bars before he's asked enough questions?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Ha!",  Kaarna grabs Soren to a headlock and ruffles his hair (flying again so she can reach that high),  "Oh, kiddo, you'll  never  be ready for that."  The witch cackles.



 "Sounds reasonable!",  Kaarna releases Soren,  "So! Who dares to come with me and who wants to babysit him so he doesn't hit the bars before he's asked enough questions?"  
 

 "I'll go with you."   The surly looking deckhand walked over to Kaarna and spat a toothpick on the ground.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I'll go with you."   The surly looking deckhand walked over to Kaarna and spat a toothpick on the ground. 
 

 "Alright, many-faces is with me. Ok, we'll look for you in the bars after a few hours",  with that the witch started walking in one direction, clearly expecting Xan to follow. If she does, Kaarna hisses to her in a low voice,  "Do you have to look like a sailor? You're not helping me forget that infernal voyage."  
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Alright, many-faces is with me. Ok, we'll look for you in the bars after a few hours",  with that the witch started walking in one direction, clearly expecting Xan to follow. If she does, Kaarna hisses to her in a low voice,  "Do you have to look like a sailor? You're not helping me forget that infernal voyage."   
 

Xan walked next to Kaarna, relaxed in her stance.   "Hmmm no.  You can deal.  And people don't suspect a sailor.  They try to fleece them." 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 Xan walked next to Kaarna, relaxed in her stance.   "Hmmm no.  You can deal.  And people don't suspect a sailor.  They try to fleece them."  
 

 "Bah, and you claim to be a nice one",  Kaarna grumbles,  "Fine. But you can put that look into use then and ask the questions. I'll watch your back." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Ha!",  Kaarna grabs Soren to a headlock and ruffles his hair (flying again so she can reach that high),  "Oh, kiddo, you'll  never  be ready for that."  The witch cackles. 
 

Soren playfully bats away her hand and gives a noncommittal shrug.

 "Sounds reasonable!",  Kaarna releases Soren,  "So! Who dares to come with me and who wants to babysit him so he doesn't hit the bars before he's asked enough questions?" [/QUOTE]

 "What, you don't trust me? Oh, the betrayal! You wound me!"  He places a hand over his heart and dramatically swoons to the ground.


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "I'll go with you."   The surly looking deckhand walked over to Kaarna and spat a toothpick on the ground. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Alright, many-faces is with me. Ok, we'll look for you in the bars after a few hours",  with that the witch started walking in one direction, clearly expecting Xan to follow. If she does, Kaarna hisses to her in a low voice,  "Do you have to look like a sailor? You're not helping me forget that infernal voyage."   
 

 "Have fun! Don't set anything on fire or bring the Claw down on our heads just yet! Anyone else coming with me?"
  The grin fades to a more neutral pleasant expression as Soren turns and heads to the marketplace.

 
 Spoiler: Gather Information: 
Which in Pathfinder is part of the Diplomacy skill:  (d20+13)[ 22 ] 
 
Athedia
Xan used her appearance to blend into the crowds occasionally asking questions to get closer to finding their goal.

 
 Spoiler: Gather Info 
I believe goes off diplomacy

 (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan and Kaarna 
Xan's questions about pirates are met with initial denials that the sailors she's questioning would have anything to do with pirates, but Kaarna's presence and attitude helps convince them that you're not exactly the law-abiding sort. They don't know the name Thraxis, but they do tell you that the Bilge and Bulwark Inn is a favored hangout of the Sea Wyverns and that the Sea Wyverns' current leader is someone named Damog Hellscurvy, though one claims "He's gone soft since his ship sank." Another mentions that the Sea Wyverns are currently looking for high-powered recruits, though he doesn't know why.
 

 
 Spoiler: Soren, Adrianna, and Scholar 
Soren finds the presence of both of his companions inhibits how willing people are to talk. The most he can learn with them within earshot is that Thraxis is indeed a known associate of the Sea Wyverns.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Xan and Kaarna 
Xan gestured for Kaarna to follow her, and started to head to the inn.
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Xan and Kaarna 
Xan gestured for Kaarna to follow her, and started to head to the inn.
 
 
 

Kaarna grins and follows Xan.  "You know how to handle yourself in rough place?",  the witch asks her in a low voice.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna grins and follows Xan.  "You know how to handle yourself in rough place?",  the witch asks her in a low voice. 
 

 "Have so far."   Xan seemed to be playing up the brashness.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan and Kaarna 
Xan's questions about pirates are met with initial denials that the sailors she's questioning would have anything to do with pirates, but Kaarna's presence and attitude helps convince them that you're not exactly the law-abiding sort. They don't know the name Thraxis, but they do tell you that the Bilge and Bulwark Inn is a favored hangout of the Sea Wyverns and that the Sea Wyverns' current leader is someone named Damog Hellscurvy, though one claims "He's gone soft since his ship sank." Another mentions that the Sea Wyverns are currently looking for high-powered recruits, though he doesn't know why.
 

 
 Spoiler: Soren, Adrianna, and Scholar 
Soren finds the presence of both of his companions inhibits how willing people are to talk. The most he can learn with them within earshot is that Thraxis is indeed a known associate of the Sea Wyverns.
 
 
 

After the third person looks over his head to stare at the warforged behind him, Soren sighs and motions Adrianna and Scholar off to a corner.

 "I'm sorry about this, but you guys are drawing the wrong kind of attention. You mind if I ask around by myself?" 
Silverraptor
Adrianna sighs.
 "Alright. Just don't get yourself into troubl- Oh who am I kidding, you probably will. Come on Scholar, we'll shadow a bit behind and keep an eye on him." 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Soren 
Asking around alone, you get threatened by a rough-looking sailor who tells you the Sea Wyverns aren't fit to swab the Cloudreavers' decks. After extricating yourself, you find a one-eyed halfling who tells you that the Sea Wyverns run their operations from a cellar on West Pearl Street."
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "West Pearl Street. Thanks!"  He flips the halfling a few coins, then makes his way back to the docks to pick up some more fresh fruit and catch up with the others.
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan, Kaarna 
The inn is dangerously crowded with all sorts of unsavory patrons, and the place is thick with the rank smell of sweat and the sea, even to those with only human scent abilities. Drunken whoops and hollers fill the air, and you must push your way through the crowd to move about. On a narrow stage, a fiddler, a squeezebox player, and a young woman playing washtub bass loudly thump out a lopsided jig as a portly female half-orc dances alongside them.

You see nowhere free to sit; servants with laden trays weave their way through the crowd to serve patrons where they stand.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan, Kaarna 
The inn is dangerously crowded with all sorts of unsavory patrons, and the place is thick with the rank smell of sweat and the sea, even to those with only human scent abilities. Drunken whoops and hollers fill the air, and you must push your way through the crowd to move about. On a narrow stage, a fiddler, a squeezebox player, and a young woman playing washtub bass loudly thump out a lopsided jig as a portly female half-orc dances alongside them.

You see nowhere free to sit; servants with laden trays weave their way through the crowd to serve patrons where they stand.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish, Kaarna, Xan 
Xan leaned against a support, tossing a  few more coppers than two drinks worth onto one of the serving girls trays.  She held up two fingers pointing to herself and Kaarna and then turned to watch the stage.  (Note again: Male sailor form)
 
CWater
 "Hah, feels like home."  Kaarna snorts and glances at sailor Xan,  "So you going to lead with the asking questions again?" 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Hah, feels like home."  Kaarna snorts and glances at sailor Xan,  "So you going to lead with the asking questions again?"  
 

"Always, some people are  good  at talking."
CoffeeIncluded
Soren makes his way to the tavern as he gulps down the last of a mango that be bought on the docks. Just in time too, as the rank smell of the tavern makes his nose wrinkle. Ah well, he's seen worse, even if not in a little bit. He makes his way over to the bar and orders a couple of drinks while scanning the crowd for his friends.

 "Ah, there you are,"  he half-shouts when he catches sight of Kaarna.  "I sure hope Xan's not the one on stage; I could give her a few pointers!" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
 "Always, some people are  good  at talking." 
 

 "Riight, then off you go, prove yourself!"  Kaarna taps Xan's shoulder, and glances around, a familiar figure catching her eye.  "Looks like the kid found his way here too. See ya later." 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren makes his way to the tavern as he gulps down the last of a mango that be bought on the docks. Just in time too, as the rank smell of the tavern makes his nose wrinkle. Ah well, he's seen worse, even if not in a little bit. He makes his way over to the bar and orders a couple of drinks while scanning the crowd for his friends.

 "Ah, there you are,"  he half-shouts when he catches sight of Kaarna.  "I sure hope Xan's not the one on stage; I could give her a few pointers!"  
 

Kaarna weaves her way through the crowd to Soren.  "Don't think so, but you can never be sure with many-faces. Why don't you climb on stage yourself and find out?"  The witch smirks teasingly.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Riight, then off you go, prove yourself!"  Kaarna taps Xan's shoulder, and glances around, a familiar figure catching her eye.  "Looks like the kid found his way here too. See ya later." 



Kaarna weaves her way through the crowd to Soren.  "Don't think so, but you can never be sure with many-faces. Why don't you climb on stage yourself and find out?"  The witch smirks teasingly. 
 

Soren replies to Kaarna's tease with a grin of his own.  "Don't mind if I do!" 

He sidles over to the stage and waits for a good moment to climb on and join in with the song.
Silverraptor
Adrianna hangs out at the entrance for a moment before turning to Scholar.
 "Well one of us should go in there to make sure he doesn't do anything stupid. Not sure if they serve anything for you in there." 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
 "I don't drink. It would probably be wiser to just let him handle it; we both seem unsuited for gathering information here." 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kaarna, Soren, Xan 
Beer is 1 silver piece a cup; harder liquor is 5 silver. The alcohol is surprisingly strong. Soren's dancing draws appreciative whooping from some in the crowd.

You notice people coming and going to/from two side rooms.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
 "I don't drink. It would probably be wiser to just let him handle it; we both seem unsuited for gathering information here." 
 
 
 

 "Yeah, yeah. I'll let him handle it and stay out of his way. I'll just keep an eye on him from the opposite side of the room in case he pisses off the wrong people." 
She turns to head into the bar.
 "Which around here is probably near everyone." 

She enters and find the place is quite crowded. She squeezes through a number of people, trying to find somewhere that would allow her to breathe comfortably in this packed place, suppress the thoughts of fire regulation this building was probably violating by having so many people in here. By sheer luck, someone at the bar got up and left right in front of here, allowing her a free seat to escape from most of the pushing and shoving going on. She sits on the stool and looks about briefly for Soren. When she couldn't see anyone in the crowd a few people in, she begins to stand up strain to look over everyone's head, but before she can, the front stage that was still in view caught her eye. What she see's causes her to initially freeze in disbelief, and then put her hand over her face and groan loudly, sitting back into the chair.

When the barkeep comes around, she asks him what type of beer he would recommend. While inexperienced with alcohol, she did have it a couple times before in after mission celebrations. Besides, there was little hope she would be alive longer then a year, so might as well make the most of life's pleasures now before it was all up.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Xan pushed off the post and walked over to near one of the rooms.  She started to make her way into one of the rooms.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Adrianna 
 "I don't drink. It would probably be wiser to just let him handle it; we both seem unsuited for gathering information here." 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kaarna, Soren, Xan 
Beer is 1 silver piece a cup; harder liquor is 5 silver. The alcohol is surprisingly strong. Soren's dancing draws appreciative whooping from some in the crowd.

You notice people coming and going to/from two side rooms.
 
 
 

Soren dances on the stage, descends into the crowd with his hair and scarf fluttering around him. His movements are graceful, even as he keeps an eye on the doors and grabs a drink from a passing barmaid, paying with a flipped silver coin and a wink that he weaves into the dance.

Although he only drinks part of it, and lets the rest spill down the front of his clothes.


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
  "Yeah, yeah. I'll let him handle it and stay out of his way. I'll just keep an eye on him from the opposite side of the room in case he pisses off the wrong people." 
She turns to head into the bar.
 "Which around here is probably near everyone." 

She enters and find the place is quite crowded. She squeezes through a number of people, trying to find somewhere that would allow her to breathe comfortably in this packed place, suppress the thoughts of fire regulation this building was probably violating by having so many people in here. By sheer luck, someone at the bar got up and left right in front of here, allowing her a free seat to escape from most of the pushing and shoving going on. She sits on the stool and looks about briefly for Soren. When she couldn't see anyone in the crowd a few people in, she begins to stand up strain to look over everyone's head, but before she can, the front stage that was still in view caught her eye. What she see's causes her to initially freeze in disbelief, and then put her hand over her face and groan loudly, sitting back into the chair.

When the barkeep comes around, she asks him what type of beer he would recommend. While inexperienced with alcohol, she did have it a couple times before in after mission celebrations. Besides, there was little hope she would be alive longer then a year, so might as well make the most of life's pleasures now before it was all up. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  
 Spoiler: Kish 
Xan pushed off the post and walked over to near one of the rooms.  She started to make her way into one of the rooms.
 
 
 

As his dance continues, Soren lets his steps falter a bit, makes sure that the smell of alcohol rises from his clothes. With that, he bows to cheers and blows kisses to the crowd, and whispers to any admirers which room he's staying in.

And then he staggers upstairs, pretending to be drunk out of his mind as he stumbles into one of the rooms.

(Athedia, do you want it to be the same room as Xan?)
CoffeeIncluded
Soren begins to stagger towards the rooms, but upon seeing andrianna take another drink, he decides to tarry. This is going to be too funny to pass up.

So instead he descends to the crowd and stumbles into Kaarna, whispering,  "Well nobody punched me on stage so Xan's not up there. I hear the Sea Wyverns work out of a cellar on west pearl street."  
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan 
The room holds a small cockfighting pit. Patrons, the same rough crowd as in the main room, crowd the edges; one skinny human fellow is taking bets.
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
Scholar frowns at Adrianna's back as she heads into the bar, but doesn't say anything further.

Getting close enough to the bar to get a bartender's attention prove problematic. As Adrianna shoves a man with horrible-smelling breath out of her way, she hears a voice in her other ear, "Name's Doc Grimm. An' I know someone who'd love to meet any friends o' poor Thraxis." Turning around, she sees a rugged human man sporting three days' worth of salt-and-pepper beard and a brand-new black eye. He smiles gleefully when he sees she's looking at him.
 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 
The room holds a small cockfighting pit. Patrons, the same rough crowd as in the main room, crowd the edges; one skinny human fellow is taking bets.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Xan flips him a couple silver (assuming thats what the others are betting) and goes to watch the fight.   After the fight (and her loss or win)
 she bet again but this time talking to another observer.   "New in town, if I wanted work where would I start?" 
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 
The room holds a small cockfighting pit. Patrons, the same rough crowd as in the main room, crowd the edges; one skinny human fellow is taking bets.
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
Scholar frowns at Adrianna's back as she heads into the bar, but doesn't say anything further.

Getting close enough to the bar to get a bartender's attention prove problematic. As Adrianna shoves a man with horrible-smelling breath out of her way, she hears a voice in her other ear, "Name's Doc Grimm. An' I know someone who'd love to meet any friends o' poor Thraxis." Turning around, she sees a rugged human man sporting three days' worth of salt-and-pepper beard and a brand-new black eye. He smiles gleefully when he sees she's looking at him.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Adrianna raises an eyebrow.
 "And who might they be? The someone and this 'Thraxis'?" 
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Xan 
The bird you bet on wins.

"Well, I dunno how tough you are..." the sailor you ask shrugs, "...but if you're good enough at fighting, I know the Sea Wyverns are lookin' for recruits for somethin'. You don't look like the play-it-safe type. You'd want to talk to Damog Hellscurvy. Don't see him here tonight, though."
 

 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
The bearded man laughs. "Oh, you're not the one who was asking about him all over town? My  mistake . If you see anyone who might want to know about him, tell them to come to the Sea Wyverns' hideout on West Pearl Street."
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna is taken aback for a moment. She did spend half the time trying to distance herself from Soren from afar, so the fact this guy knew she was with him meant he had to have spotted her earlier in the day when she was with him. That said, she needed to answer the man before he got away.
 "A-Ah I see. Thank you for letting me know. And will Thraxis or the other person be there? Sorry about the misinformation. You can't really trust anyone who just suddenly talks to you these days." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren sort of shuffles awkwardly.  "Well...we know where to go, right? And since we,
 you know--"  he points at the breastplate he took off the woman  "--maybe we're ahead of them this time?" 
CWater
Kaarna has been watching the show and the crowd, drunk a bit of ale and had some dull conversation with the other patrons. She had managed spook a few, but their reactions had not been very interesting, and she was growing bored. She glances back at the others to see if they showed any sign of leaving, while kindling a small fire between her fingertips.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 
The bird you bet on wins.

"Well, I dunno how tough you are..." the sailor you ask shrugs, "...but if you're good enough at fighting, I know the Sea Wyverns are lookin' for recruits for somethin'. You don't look like the play-it-safe type. You'd want to talk to Damog Hellscurvy. Don't see him here tonight, though."
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
"Fine enough at it.  Where could I find him?"
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
"You're not gonna find him here, I'm afraid," the man says, evading the question as far as you can tell. Glancing around shiftily, he hurries out the door.
 

 
 Spoiler: Xan 
"Couldn't tell ya that. He's in here pretty often...never seen him anywhere else, but never looked."
 
Silverraptor
Adrianna watches as the man hurries out the door. She thinks about trying to chase after him, but the shift of the crowd in front of her made her realize that she'd lose him before she'd be able to make it out of the establishment. She decides instead to look around for Soren and the others and tell them about her encounter.
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  
 Spoiler: Xan 
"Couldn't tell ya that. He's in here pretty often...never seen him anywhere else, but never looked."
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Kish 
 "Fair nuff.  Give me a whistle if he comes round 'right? Now, which you think I should bet on this time?" Xan looked over toward the birds. 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna watches as the man hurries out the door. She thinks about trying to chase after him, but the shift of the crowd in front of her made her realize that she'd lose him before she'd be able to make it out of the establishment. She decides instead to look around for Soren and the others and tell them about her encounter. 
 

 "...I don't think I was subtle enough,"  Soren says with a bit of a wry look.
Kish
You leave the bar, Scholar rejoining you and asking what you discovered, and make your way to the house on West Pearl Street where the Sea Wyverns are apparently based. Around the back, you find a heavy pull-up door leading down to a cellar; it appears to be unlocked.

 
 Spoiler 
And we're back! Hopefully, anyway. Sorry about that.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Did you see what I wanted Xan to do?
 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 You leave the bar, Scholar rejoining you and asking what you discovered, and make your way to the house on West Pearl Street where the Sea Wyverns are apparently based. Around the back, you find a heavy pull-up door leading down to a cellar; it appears to be unlocked.

 
 Spoiler 
And we're back! Hopefully, anyway. Sorry about that.
 
 
 

 "Alright. Keep your weapons at hands reach, but not in the open. Kid, let me go first, though you'll be doing the talking if they don't come directly for our throats."  Kaarna casts an armour spell from her wand and casts a spell to sharpen her senses and insight.  "Best be prepared." 
 
 Spoiler 
Mage armour from the wand, and  Perceive Cues  from memory.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren nods,  "Got it, though for your part don't go in with wands blazing. I mean,
 have them ready, but not out. I've got a few ways to try and distract them if you don't go right to fighting."  He hums to himself a bit, ready to weave magic into his voice at a moment's notice.
Kish
Kaarna, Soren, Scholar, and Adrianna descend the stairs into the basement.

 
 Spoiler: Kaarna, Soren, Scholar, Adrianna 
In dim candlelight, a number of human-appearing figures are clustered around a pair of barrels and some driftwood planks serving as a makeshift table, hunched to avoid knocking their heads on the low beams. Far from fearsome-looking, this ragtag band consists mostly of young men whose eagerness far outshines their experience. The older members, male and female, appear too worn and tired to be much of a threat, though their brine-wrinkled faces and cutthroat edginess leaves little doubt that they were once fearsome buccaneers. You count eighteen bodies in the cramped and dingy cellar. They seem unsurprised by your arrival, and not hostile.
 
Silverraptor
 "Hm. Not sure what I was expecting. So, where should we go from here?" 
CWater
Kaarna pokes Soren softly with her elbow.  "Alright, kiddo. You've got the silver tongue, use it",  she whispers.
CoffeeIncluded
Hm. Not threatening, and they don't seem surprised. Might as well start off on a good note. Soren walks up with a smile and holds out his hand.

 "Good afternoon! I'm Soren; I take it you're all the Sea Wyverns? Love the name by the way." 
 
 Spoiler: Kish 
Please tell me if my OOC knowledge is wrong and if it is I'll change what Soren says.

 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
You hear a chuckle from the stairs at the back of the room. A rotund, grizzled man strolls down and into the room. He rubs his belly. "Damog Hellscurvy, pirate lord of Port Verge," he drawls, a slow grin spreading across his face. "I hear yer lookin' fer a gnome named Thraxis. I might know where you can find him. Not only that, I think I might be able to get you to him, if you help me out a bit in return."

He gestures to the other pirates, who hurry to clear space for you at the table.
 
CWater
Kaarna takes a step forward.  "Well let's hear the task and maybe we will." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna also sits down at a spot at a table to listen to the man's proposal.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm assuming Xan is coming down the stairs now?
 
Kish
 
 Spoiler: Adrianna, Kaarna, Soren 
The man grins broadly. “The gnome was taken along with some other folk by the blasted Cloudreavers six months back," he tells you. "Those filthy scum then sold them to the dwarves that run Dreadhold prison. They’s workin’ them as slaves in some mine or another underneath the prison tower. Never thought I’d be sayin’ it, but I’m fixin’ to head in there meself, to look for a lad named Jukkeam, one o’ dear Thraxis’s friends. I could use help from fightin’ folk like yerselves, an' this is yer only chance ta ever find Thraxis. Interested?”

 
 Spoiler: Knowledge: Local 15 
Dreadhold is a for-profit prison maintained by the dwarves of House Kundarak. Rumors about the conditions there are many and contradictory, though some people are known to have been released alive.
 

 
CWater
 "Slaves in a mine? Don't like that stuff myself",  Kaarna grins,  "We might be interested to help. Sounds like a place that'd look beautiful in flames." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren grimaces, curling his lip in disgust.  "They call it a for-profit prison, but I think slavery is more accurate. I get locking up criminals and making sure you can afford to keep the place running, but profiting off of it? I'm with Kaarna; places like that look nicer in rubble. I'm in."  He pauses.  "Well, probably. What are the terms?" 
 
 Spoiler: Everyone 
I am so, so sorry. I've been on finals mode and had no idea this was updated!
 
Kish
"Glad ta see yer enthusiasm!" he chortles. "The Cloudreavers have a ship in port called the  Laughing Lady , just done loadin' supplies for Dreadhold. Tonight, while most of the crew are drinking ashore, ye can seize the ship, with a crew o' Sea Wyverns, and take it ta Dreadhold. When ye reach it, ye can hide in crates ta be moved off the ship. When the crates are inside Dreadhold, ye can break out and find Jukkeam--and Thraxis. If ye can leave the place in ruins, all the better, but don't get yerselves killed before ye come back."
Silverraptor
Adrianna groans at hearing the plan, but doesn't say anything. She didn't like stealing, and especially didn't like stealing a large ship. Normally she wouldn't do something like this, but thinking about death looming over her head makes her force her reservations to be stored deep down inside her.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 "Glad ta see yer enthusiasm!" he chortles. "The Cloudreavers have a ship in port called the  Laughing Lady , just done loadin' supplies for Dreadhold. Tonight, while most of the crew are drinking ashore, ye can seize the ship, with a crew o' Sea Wyverns, and take it ta Dreadhold. When ye reach it, ye can hide in crates ta be moved off the ship. When the crates are inside Dreadhold, ye can break out and find Jukkeam--and Thraxis. If ye can leave the place in ruins, all the better, but don't get yerselves killed before ye come back." 
 

Oh for... those damnable boats again!  "Sounds cool, but won't they get suspicious when the boat is run by strange people? Or is there a captain or something that we need to grab and 'persuade' to help?" 
Kish
"Shouldn't be a problem. I'll eat my hat if any of the dwarves call any single Cloudreaver  friend . They'll be expecting human pirates and they'll see human pirates. Stomach problem, little girl?" he addresses Adrianna.
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 "Shouldn't be a problem. I'll eat my hat if any of the dwarves call any single Cloudreaver  friend . They'll be expecting human pirates and they'll see human pirates. Stomach problem, little girl?" he addresses Adrianna. 
 

 "Alright, works for me",  Kaarna shrugs and looks to the others,  "We're doing this, right?" 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
 "Shouldn't be a problem. I'll eat my hat if any of the dwarves call any single Cloudreaver  friend . They'll be expecting human pirates and they'll see human pirates. Stomach problem, little girl?" he addresses Adrianna. 
 

 "Something like that. I'll be over it when we're on the ship." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren grins, though he's not looking forward to getting right back on sea either.  "I'm in. Though is there anything else we need to know about the place?" 
Kish
"Nothin' we can't figure out later." The man chuckles again. "Tonight at the docks, two hours after sunset. We'll meet and steal us a ship, and then we'll rescue us a gnome."

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about the extended delay; I'm not dropping this. If you don't have more questions, I'm stopping there rather than skipping straight to the rendezvous at the docks in case you have things you want to say or do in the absence of pirates; let me know if you do anything before the rendezvous (or do something other than make the rendezvous, though I don't expect that).
 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren gives a playful salute.  "Sounds good to me! And stealing from slavers, I like it." 

Whenever Soren leaves, he spends the time buying a few maps of the area, a change of clothes, some more arrows, and quite a bit of fresh fruit.
Kish
Damog, Doc Grimm, and a half-dozen Sea Wyverns are waiting for you in the shadows of the rendezvous point. Only a few lights burn across the darkening harbor. After weeks at sea, sailors are eager to come ashore to crawl through the port’s bars and inns in search of good food, hot baths, and more clandestine pleasures. As would be expected, the port guard makes patrols along the docks to keep an eye on thugs, drunks, and hooligans. Hardened sailors are expected to look after themselves, however, and the watch is a light one.

As you follow Doc Grimm along the docks, he eventually stops and points to a three-masted caravel ahead. “Thar be the Laughing Lady,” he whispers. “All ye need do is climb aboard and knock out any guards. If ’n ye have any troubles, jes throw ’em into the sea."
CWater
 "Got-cha",  Kaarna says and looks at the other members of their small party.  "Ready? I'll cast a few spells on myself before we go. And if someone wants to sneak in, then they should do it first, before the loud ones approach. I'm thinking of flying over and coming on board from the water side.  If  I feel the need to land at all that is." 
CoffeeIncluded
Soren looks up and down he ship.  "Think I can charm one of the sailors into giving me a tour?" 
CWater
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren looks up and down he ship.  "Think I can charm one of the sailors into giving me a tour?"  
 

 "Sure, kiddo. Go ahead and put your charming silver tongue to work."  Kaarna cackles to herself.
Athedia
 "Soren.... Could you lure one of those sailors away for me?  I have a plan, but I need one of them disappeared.  Oh and his clothes." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna raises an eyebrow at Xan.
 "What is your plan?" 

She has her arms crossed to keep herself warm. She left her armor behind, knowing she could call it in an instant and the night sea breeze that was coming in felt cool to the point of goosebumps. She was regretting not bringing something slight warmer, even though the bulk would have restricted her movement slightly when the armor magically appeared around her. So the sooner they got on the boat, the better.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
  "Sure, kiddo. Go ahead and put your charming silver tongue to work."  Kaarna cackles to herself. 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Soren.... Could you lure one of those sailors away for me?  I have a plan, but I need one of them disappeared.  Oh and his clothes."  
 

Soren looks back and forth between the two women as a grin spreads across his face. He stretches out his arms and cracks his knuckles.  "I think I have something in mind to satisfy both of you. Just have to hope that at least one person on the ship is into men." 
Athedia
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Soren looks back and forth between the two women as a grin spreads across his face. He stretches out his arms and cracks his knuckles.  "I think I have something in mind to satisfy both of you. Just have to hope that at least one person on the ship is into men."  
 

 "Just get me someone to copy Twinkletoes, you don't have to flirt with him just get him distracted and knock him out.  Adrianna, all I need you to do is look a little more... unrefined and look embarrassed.  I don't know, picture walking in on Soren or something." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Just get me someone to copy Twinkletoes, you don't have to flirt with him just get him distracted and knock him out.  Adrianna, all I need you to do is look a little more... unrefined and look embarrassed.  I don't know, picture walking in on Soren or something."  
 

Adrianna thinks for a moment.
 "So... like what girls my age are supposed to look like? I guess I can try to act like the girls I would see during some escort missions when they were trying to get the eye of some of my older, male counterparts. Assuming I understand what you're planning of course." 
She didn't know why, but she could feel cheeks going a bit red when saying the last statement. She didn't know why she did, because she was more then willing to follow Xan's plan. But the sheer fact she felt herself turning red a bit making her hate herself for doing so, caused her to turn even more red, which caused her to hate herself even more, which caused her to get even more red, which started a vicious downward spiral into deep actual embarrassment when asked to try pretend embarrassment. After a little bit of this spiral thinking, she had to cover her face with her hands for fear she could actually be glowing luminously red.
 "Please... just... get this over with please?..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Athedia 
  "Just get me someone to copy Twinkletoes, you don't have to flirt with him just get him distracted and knock him out.  Adrianna, all I need you to do is look a little more... unrefined and look embarrassed.  I don't know, picture walking in on Soren or something."  
 

Soren crumples up a piece of scribbled-over parchment and throws it at Xan's head.


 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 Adrianna thinks for a moment.
 "So... like what girls my age are supposed to look like? I guess I can try to act like the girls I would see during some escort missions when they were trying to get the eye of some of my older, male counterparts. Assuming I understand what you're planning of course." 
She didn't know why, but she could feel cheeks going a bit red when saying the last statement. She didn't know why she did, because she was more then willing to follow Xan's plan. But the sheer fact she felt herself turning red a bit making her hate herself for doing so, caused her to turn even more red, which caused her to hate herself even more, which caused her to get even more red, which started a vicious downward spiral into deep actual embarrassment when asked to try pretend embarrassment. After a little bit of this spiral thinking, she had to cover her face with her hands for fear she could actually be glowing luminously red.
 "Please... just... get this over with please?..."  
 

Soren's grin softens slightly when he sees Adrianna's embarrassment.  "Don't worry.
 Since Xan's insisting on being a killjoy this shouldn't take long. Though Xan, if Adrianna's going to...accompany you, she shouldn't seem unrefined and embarrassed. Okay, maybe a bit unrefined, but confident and collected. Anyway, I'm off! Stay close to the ship; I'll tell you when I'm done." 

With that, Soren makes sure he has something like ropes or manacles, and heads over to where the sailors of that ship will likely pick up escorts. As he walks, he taps his hands to his hair and mutters the incantation for Prestidigitation. White blooms from his fingers and spreads out to dye his hair.
Kish
 "Wait,"  Scholar says.  "Would they take someone they expected to have sex with back onto the ship rather than to an inn? And if they're already off the ship, it'll make our job harder if we get them to go back to it, surely? Just climbing aboard--or flying aboard--will work better." 
CWater
Kaarna sighs heavily.  "Reeeaally, kiddos? C'mon, I know you got all that dirt in your heads, but try to keep your minds on the task, ok? All, we need to do is take the ship. So I say we sneak on board and take 'em by surprise. If you wanna charm one of them and get onboard that way, sure go ahead." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "Wait,"  Scholar says.  "Would they take someone they expected to have sex with back onto the ship rather than to an inn? And if they're already off the ship, it'll make our job harder if we get them to go back to it, surely? Just climbing aboard--or flying aboard--will work better."  
 


 
 Originally Posted by CWater 
 Kaarna sighs heavily.  "Reeeaally, kiddos? C'mon, I know you got all that dirt in your heads, but try to keep your minds on the task, ok? All, we need to do is take the ship. So I say we sneak on board and take 'em by surprise. If you wanna charm one of them and get onboard that way, sure go ahead."  
 

 "I was thinking that maybe I could charm them into getting me on the ship? I don't know I've never been in this exact situation before. But I can definitely charm them. Might be able to do more than that as long as nobody gets aggressive." 
Kish
 "Again, why not just climb on board? If you can mind control someone into fighting against their crewmates, that's definitely magic beyond my power; I would expect someone who was merely charmed to break the spell quickly and fight against us." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "Again, why not just climb on board? If you can mind control someone into fighting against their crewmates, that's definitely magic beyond my power; I would expect someone who was merely charmed to break the spell quickly and fight against us."  
 

Soren frowns.  "I...don't think I can do that. But I can tell them to get us on the ship, or let us tie them up or something?" 
Kish
 "Why are you focusing on someone who isn't on the ship to begin with? The way onto the ship is to climb onto the ship." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Tje problem is getting on board without a fight. I don't know how we can just board the ship without a huge fight." 
Kish
 "Yes. We climb aboard the ship and fight the pirates to seize it. How is any amount of messing around with someone who isn't currently on the ship supposed to bypass that?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Kish 
  "Yes. We climb aboard the ship and fight the pirates to seize it. How is any amount of messing around with someone who isn't currently on the ship supposed to bypass that?"  
 

 "I was just thinking that it would be a lot easier to steal this ship if a few of us are already on it than if we just charge in. Plus I don't want to kill anyone. Actually, I might be able to get myself and someone else on board and slow down the guards rushing us all at once? Or at least distract them in the meantime so you can sneak on too?" 
Athedia
 "Climbing can work, I don't care.  But I can get on looking like one of them, unlike you lot.  I fooled you before didn't I?" 
Silverraptor
 "Well, we are burning moonlight. How about we start getting on board? The sooner we get this done the better. Which side of the ship would give us the most chance of climbing up without getting noticed?" 
Kish
A 5-foot-wide boarding ramp leads from the dock to the main deck. It occurs to you that crew members on deck are likely to be watching the ramp, if they're paying attention at all. On the Lady’s far side, several ropes hang from the rails to within easy reach of the waterline, and the moonlit bay is almost unnaturally calm.
CoffeeIncluded
Soren looks around for a small rowboat or something they can, er, borrow to get to the ropes.

 
 Spoiler: Perception 
Perception:  (d20+11)[ 15 ] 
 
Kish
You quickly find a rowboat at one end of the dock.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Well, let's go! I can cover us with an illusion or some fog." 
Silverraptor
Adrianna nods.
 "Good catch. I guess we don't don't need to steal only ONE boating vessel tonight." 
CWater
 "Right-o, you four get on the boat, I'll wait until you're getting close and then I'll fly over. Maybe try to distract the crew, if it looks like you need it." 
Silverraptor
A short time later, Adrianna finds herself rowing the boat towards the ship. She doesn't quite know how she ended up in this position, but she was here now. She looked over her shoulder at the ship they were headed towards the ship and realized if anyone looked over the side they would be seen.
 "Wish it was a lot more foggy to mask our approach." 
flat_footed
  The Fullmetal Mod   : Raise Thread 