BelGareth
Time suddenly *boings* back into its normal shape with a loud *SNAP*. The day coalesced into the night, and the sun and moon and stars were all in the heaven at the same time, day was night, night was day, birds sang, the wind howled, and then...just like that, you  pop  forward in time.

Some of you who are familiar with the power ready themselves for the slightly overwhelming desire to expunge the contents of one's belly, combined with the forced teleport, it was enough to make any grown person kneel down and pray to any god for forgiveness to whatever offense they may have given.

This time, however, there are more people standing next to you looking just as bewildered as you.

A rope dangles down from the tree, a limb specifically, the biggest one it had, but where from you are not sure, you hear a small voice whispering to you all  "Quick, get in!"  He said quietly as a Rose petal falls down from the rope, leaning down and looking up, you see a grinning man above, in a hole just beyond the tree limb, which is....not there. How is that possible?

As you all regard each other, dismiss what ever spells you feel appropriate, and cast any others, you climb or ascend the rope in whatever manner you feel, the hole expands to meet the needs of its occupants, a nice cool breezy tent with pillows everywhere, trays of food, dried figs, fresh grapes, bread is steaming in the center, with some butter, as well as tankards of mead mixed with honey and berries. The man looks at you all and smiles, greeting everyone like long-lost cousins,  "WELCOME!"  He announces without a care for the sound, as the last one alights the tent, the hole closes as the rope is pulled up.

 "Take a seat, take a seat"  he repeats himself, offering different people locations to park themselves  "Feel free to take some food, and drink, it will refresh if you need more, no need to be pleasant on my behalf!"  He says chuckling to himself  "It's about damn time"  his mood, and tone changes instantly, like a drill sergeant  "I am Sergeant Hackford, and you lot have done a royal mess up! But it ain't your fault, damn spies everywhere, I'll be your handler for this mission, you will be heading across enemy territory to locate a Captain in the next village over, confirm identity, and then eliminate him however you best see, preferably without any hubbub or fanfare. This tree will be your fallback position, you will not have any extraction protocols active, nor will you have support, this is just you lot, so make it work."  He says matter of factly, hands on his hips

 "Questions?" 
 
 Spoiler: Everyone 

The nausea affects of the power have no in game mechanics.
The power time hop is reverting, allowing you all to see each other in the same time stream. The teleport was just to throw a tracker off, as it's in a different time stream, standard spycraft stuff
The spell being used is a modified Rope trick, normal rules to id if you want to, or your character has seen it before, not a big deal.
This is where the game starts, mission parameters, ask away for anything else
 
LairdMaon
 I have questions.  Cur speaks up from the seat he picked out on the floor,  There a problem if more die than the target? What's the target's name? And what's the village called?  
BelGareth
The Sergeant turns to Cur and nods in recognition  "well, we are a clandestine unit, we would like to keep things to a minimum, but if it is required for the situation, we usually understand"  he says with a wolfish grin.  "As for the other stuff, it's the next village over, Morgsten Height, they got taken in the initial push on the kingdom, and so they house a sizeable garrison, but intel suggests they have been reposition down the line a few towns over for something else, leaving this captain with much less security....No clue, thats your job, we just know there is a captain, who needs to be taken out, but you must obtain positive identity first." 
LairdMaon
 Assassination. And we're the blade in your hand.  Cur looks meaningfully at each Petal he's been assigned to work with.  Yeah, I'm in. Happy to do my part.  he adds cheerfully.
Ilerien
Having fought off (or at least separated himself from) the teleport nausea Evindal sat down on a pillow and observed everyone for several moment quietly noting their appearance, tone of voice, body language, etc.

  - Do you have any more specific intel regarding the target? Like his name, distinguishing features apart from his rank, anything else to be able to confirm his identity reliably.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Sense motive to get the general vibe of the people around:  (1d20+4)[ 21 ] .
Knowledge (local) to recall knowledge about the sergeant:  (1d20+12)[ 31 ] .
Knowledge (geography)  (1d20+8)[ 23 ]  and knowledge (history)  (1d20+12)[ 19 ]  to recall any important knowledge about Morgsten Height.
 
Cygnia
  "Or even if it  is  a 'he'?"   added Tommasia, brief flicker of concern on her face towards how Evindal was holding up.  It at least gave her something to focus on besides the fact that apparently more than one bouquet of Rose Petals got burned on assignment at the same bloody time.

   There's got to be a weed in the garden...   
  "Race or species?  Military captain or local constabulary?  And what has the target rumoured to have done in order to be plucked?"  
BelGareth
The sergeant looks at both Tommasia and Evindal with a nod  "right, well, you should be able to tell by them being a hobgoblin captain, the only one in the area to be exact. See the Empire of the East Sun have legions, each legion is commanded by a captain, each legion is made up of 1000 men, and made up of 10 cohorts, each cohort is led by a leftenant."  He says reciting like the information like it was rote, he looks at everyone  "This town was taken, and the head man in charge is your target, he commands this whole region, and we need you to take him out. Yes, it's a man, that's all we know, enemy intel is very limited, troop movements, unit strength, that kind of thing, but we know  very  little about their command structure, intent, or....well anything else." 
Deadguy
   Still no idea what all of that kidnapping was about.   
    None of that seems to matter much now. We’ve got marching orders.   

Aerilaya skillfully climbed the rope. Once she was inside, she introduced herself.

    “Everyone can call me Laya. When do we depart for the target?”   
   Hope the place we’re headed is nicer than the last time.   
   I’m sure a place run by goblins will be the finest of locations.   
 Actions:  None
Auranghzeb
Once recovered from the mild inconvenience, Cervena climbed the rope with ease. She was far more athletic than her thin frame would show.

She listened absentmindedly, she knew the job. She didn't really care much for all the spy stuff, irrelevant concerns in the light of eternity, but she was bound to be a petal, that was part of her burden in this life.

She rolled her incarnum-made hood back and started to re-braid her hair to focus on the information. She looked around the room, some of these petals were not really discreet, a stealthy mission was going to be interesting.


  When do we part and where is the engagement point?  
BelGareth
Sergeant Hackford adjusts his cap and clears his throat before answering, his voice steady and authoritative.  "You'll be parting ways with us tomorrow morning at dawn. We'll provide you with the necessary supplies and equipment for the mission, along with any last-minute information we can gather. As for the engagement point, we've identified a small village called Blackwood on the outskirts of the enemy's stronghold. It's a secluded area with minimal civilian presence, making it an ideal rendezvous point for your team." 

He takes a moment to study the map spread out on the table before continuing.  "Once you reach Blackwood, you'll need to locate a discreet safe house we've established there. It's run by a contact of ours who can provide further intelligence and support. I'll give you the exact coordinates and a coded phrase to identify yourselves upon arrival. Remember, security is paramount, so be cautious and blend in with the locals as much as possible." 

The sergeant's gaze shifts between Tommasia and Evindal, emphasizing the importance of their mission.  "You'll have to rely on your wits and resourcefulness, as this is a high-risk operation. I trust that the skills you've displayed in your previous assignments will serve you well here. Any questions before we part ways tomorrow?" 
 
 Spoiler 

You guys can head out whenever, basic supplies (ie non-magical) within reason are available inside the hideout.
 
Cygnia
  "What's the population of Blackwood made up of?"   Tommasia asked.  It might be on the outskirts with minimal civilians, but some races in their band might be a bit more out of place than others.  All it took was one person too nosy or too eager to sell strangers out and their plans could all be for naught.
Auranghzeb
Cervena looked around, the petals did not seem very stealthy. She discretely sniffed the air for any scent of evil.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Cervena cannot really use any items other that what she has, due to VoP.
 

 Please, show me maps of the area, entry points, approximate location of the target. We need to rest, but first, we need to discus tactics.
What talents do you bring petals? 
BelGareth
Sergeant Hackford raises an eyebrow at Tommasia's question about the population of Blackwood. He takes a moment to consider his response, his English accent carrying a note of contemplation.  "Well, lass, I wish I could give you an exact answer, but given the circumstances, we don't have precise information on the current population makeup. Blackwood used to be a human settlement, but since the enemy took control, who knows what they've done with the place. It's possible there may be a mix of races now, and we can't rule out the presence of sympathizers or informants among them." 

He turns his attention to Cervena, noticing her discreet sniffing and the petals she carries. With a slight smile, he responds,  "Ah, tactics, indeed. I'm afraid I don't have any maps to provide, my dear. This operation was put together hastily, and we had to rely on expedient measures. As for the approximate location of the target, all we know is that he commands the whole region from this town. Our best bet is to gather more intelligence on the ground." 

Sergeant Hackford adjusts his cap and looks at both of them, his gaze filled with determination. " Remember, this is a high-stakes mission, and we must adapt to the circumstances as they unfold. Stay vigilant, use your skills wisely, and trust in your training. Any other concerns or questions, lads and lasses?" 
 
 Spoiler 

yes, he has an english accent, just go with it.
 
LairdMaon
Cur stands up and, as he walks to the entrance portal, says, " I'll be outside preparing a carriage or cart. Depends on what I can scrounge up. Treat me like a draft horse. Whoever rides in it are nobles or merchants, or whatever. "

He leaps to the ground and begins his setup.
BelGareth
The extradimensional space provides a hidden and secure resting place for them. The small pocket dimension is cozy, with faint glimmers of magical energy dancing in the air.

As you settle down for the night, you take in the tranquility of your surroundings. The walls of the extradimensional space are invisible, blending seamlessly with the night sky outside. Soft, ethereal light bathes the area, casting a gentle glow that soothes their weary bodies and minds.

Sergeant Hackford stands near the entrance, ensuring their safety within the magical sanctuary. He offers a reassuring smile before softly saying,  "Rest well, my friends. This sanctuary will shield you from harm and provide the rest you need. When you awaken, we shall continue our journey towards Blackwood, ready to face whatever challenges await us." 

With those parting words, Sergeant Hackford steps back, leaving you all to find comfort and solace within the Rope Trick's protective embrace. As you settle into your chosen spots, you feel the gentle sway of the extradimensional space, providing a sense of peace and security.

When you eventually awaken, refreshed and ready to face the challenges ahead, you find yourselves still within the enchanted refuge. The magical energy surrounding you slowly dissipates, indicating that the duration of the spell is coming to an end. Gathering your belongings, you know it is time to continue the journey.

 
 Spoiler 

Couple of things to sort out
Marching order?
How are you traveling? carefully? is someone scouting ahead? spells?
etc etc
 
LairdMaon
Cur uses his time to clean and polish himself. He checks the carriage for defects and damage. Once he's comfortable that it's in good condition, and while everyone else is sleeping or preparing, he take the carriage out for practice. He pulls it around for several hours, until both he and it have some road dust and mud on them. All the better to look the part.

Finally, he pulls up by the Rope Trick and waits for the rest.
BelGareth
As you all awaken within the magical sanctuary of the Rope Trick spell, they notice a folded note tucked neatly against the trunk of a nearby tree. The message is written in Sergeant Hackford's distinctive handwriting, bearing the weight of unexpected news.

 "I regret to inform you that Tallrose and Aerilaya, have been reassigned to another mission overnight. Due to unforeseen developments and urgent circumstances, their unique skills and expertise are required elsewhere. Unfortunately, they will not be able to accompany you on your journey to Blackwood as originally planned.

This sudden change may come as a surprise, but rest assured that Tallrose and Aerilaya's new assignment is of utmost importance to our cause. They have been entrusted with a separate task that demands their immediate attention. Their skills and dedication make them invaluable assets in this new endeavor.

While their absence may present challenges, I have every confidence in your abilities to adapt and overcome. The Rose Petals have been trained to face adversity head-on, and I believe in your resourcefulness and determination. The success of this mission now falls squarely on your shoulders.

Remember, the fate of this region rests upon the completion of your task. The capture or elimination of the enemy's commander in Blackwood is of paramount importance. Proceed with caution, stay vigilant, and rely on each other. Together, I know you can achieve success.

May luck be on your side as you face the trials ahead. Stay true to your training and trust in yourselves. The Empire of the East Sun must be held accountable for their actions, and you are our best hope in accomplishing that.

Best of luck, and may you return triumphant." 

As you prepare to leave, the note spontaneously bursts into flames, disintegrating into ash. It is a symbol of the urgency and secrecy surrounding the mission, leaving no trace of the message that had been entrusted to them.
Auranghzeb
Cervena read the note quickly.


 Tallrose was not precisely stealthy, so I can understand her reassignment, but she also looked like a good plan B, as in Blungeon an army of goblins to death.
 

Not even expecting the others to laugh at her silly attempt at a joke, she gather her few belongings and set out ahead, scouting and foraging for the others.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 


Casting my 24hr buffs (Primal Hunter and Primal Insticts) and shaping my soulmeld red cloak.

Then moving ahead of the group to scout and forage Survival  (1d20+14)[ 27 ] 
   Cervena   
f NG Human Ranger 2/Ardent 5/SoK2,  Level  9,  Init  9,  HP  66/66,  Speed  40/ Levitate at will
 AC  24,  Touch  16,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  9,  Ref  8,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  7/2 /43
 +1 bane evil Old Kukris x2    +13 (+17 vs Evil, +22 vs Evil Arcanists) (1d4+7 (+11 vs Evil), 18-20 x2)
   A staff, any staff   +12 (+16 vs Evil) ( ,  )
   Force Armor  (+6 Armor, +2 Dex, +2 Deflect, +2 Natural, +2 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8
 Condition  Primal Instincts + Primal Hunter (Uncanny dodge)
 
Cygnia
Tommasia's frown etched deeper into a full-fledged scowl at this point.  Bad enough, several of them got burned and pulled.  Now two of their number were conveniently gone before this new mission.  Best case scenario, those two were traitors and HQ snagged them finally (   ...but why the song and dance number of being reassigned?  Why not just tell us...?   )

Worse case scenario, whatever or whoever was responsible was higher up in the Rose Petals -- and they were pulling the strings...

The sell-sword grimaced.     "Something about this entire situation stinks..."    She muttered, flashing a look of concern towards Evindal.  She hoped the mage got a better read off the sergeant than she did.
Ilerien
   - It's hard to pinpoint the overall source, though. Everything just feels a little off. Risking to sound too obvious, we shouldn't lower our guard,    - responded Evindal softly, closing his spellbook carefully. -    I've heard of Hackford, though never got to work with him. Adding to the number of irregularities we encountered so far, his rank is too low for a handler, especially for a mission as important as he stressed this one would be.   

The elf got out of the hideout and retrieved his possessions hidden at the base of the tree.
  - The five of us would make a believable enough errant troupe of circus performers. Shame Tallrose got reassigned,   - he chuckled at Cervena's remark.   - Does anyone have any more ideas for a cover story?   - the elf scanned the gathered Petals then retrieved a number of small bundles of horse hair from a pouch on his belt. -   How many horses do we need for this trip, what do you think?  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I assume everyone at least introduced themselves during our downtime and told the others what they can bring to the table, please, correct me if I'm wrong. 🙂
Greater mage armor on himself with the help of his rod of extend spell.
 
BelGareth
You all pack up your items with speedy haste, as if you had done it before, and you were all trained professionals. As if.

Evindal summons some mounts, and you head off, you skirt the town not wanting to raise any eyes, or alert farmers to your presence. Or spies, you don't want the enemy spies to see you pass, and for good reason, this is the new border of the kingdom, and is most likely rife with turncoats, paid thugs, mercenaries, and other...unseemly types, like other spies.

Damn spies.

The weather is fine this time of summer, and a light breeze accompanies you as you canter along the country side road, trees sway slowly and the forest sings with it's melodious tune, it fills you with a gentle but fleeting joy, you do not see a single soul on the road, and it seems it hasn't been used in some days time. A road like this would be used daily for the villages to travel between each one, but you get the feeling, and even come across a few broken down cart's, spilled goods, blankets, torn sacks of grain, broken cart wheels all littler the road side at odd intervals breaking your joy of the ride.

About mid day, you come across two individuals trying to pick up a cart, a certain deja vu roils over Cervan, while the others frown and peer at the site of them, one is a heavily armed human who is arguing with another human much less armored, neither are paying much attention as you trot along quietly beneath the shade of the trees.

 ~ 
 
 Spoiler: Letter to Vildyrámok and Endymia 

"To Vildyrámok and Endymia,

Welcome to the mission. Your arrival is timely, and your unique skills will be invaluable to our cause. I regret to inform you that your initial associates, have been reassigned to a separate urgent mission. However, your new task is equally vital.

Your mission is to intercept and rendezvous with Tommasia, Evindal, and Cervena along the road to Blackwood. They are our primary operatives, currently engaged in gathering intelligence and preparing for the crucial mission to eliminate the enemy's commander in Blackwood.

Once you meet your associates, join forces with them and provide your respective expertise to bolster their efforts. Vildyrámok, your expertise as a hellbred Warmage will bring a unique blend of arcane power and insight to the team. Endymia, as a Paladin, your unwavering devotion and combat prowess will serve as a powerful asset in the upcoming battle.

Your ultimate objective remains the same—capture or eliminate the enemy's commander in Blackwood to cripple their forces and weaken their hold on the region. The fate of this land hangs in the balance, and your success is of utmost importance.

Proceed along the road towards Blackwood, keeping a watchful eye for any signs of your associates. Be prepared for potential encounters with enemy forces and navigate with caution. Once united, synchronize your efforts and continue towards Blackwood, coordinating your strategies and leveraging each other's strengths.

Remember, the Rose Petals operate with utmost secrecy and efficiency. Maintain discretion throughout your mission, avoiding unnecessary attention and minimizing collateral damage. The success of this operation relies on your ability to strike swiftly and decisively, leaving no trace of your presence.

May fortune favor you on your journey. Trust in your training and rely on each other's skills. Together, you form a formidable force, capable of achieving great success. I eagerly await news of your successful rendezvous and subsequent progress.

Best of luck,

Sergeant Hackford"
 


You received the letter, and upon reading it, wer promptly teleported to a shadowy hillock, not too far off the silent country road, you see the other 'Rose Petal' who was summoned. The letter immolates itself as you stand there looking at each other.
Gaiyamato
Vildyrámok takes a moment to steady himself as the teleport effects wear off. Standing there in white and blue robes rustling in the soft breeze, his long black hair billowing about him as the air settled from the displacement caused by the teleport. At first glance he looks as if he is an ordinary human mage, but for the burn scars covering much of his exposed skin and the softly glowing red eyes. Vil pushes a pair of dark glass lenses over his eyes to hide the feature and pulls the robes and cowl about him a bit more tightly, so as to reduce attention.

Noticing the other companion beside him, he recalls the letter contents. "    Endymia I presume?    " he says quietly and somewhat breathlessly. "    Vildyrámok    ." he offers his hand for a quick and short friendly shake.
Olive_Sophia
 


Endymia's face was expressionless as the letter she held went up in flames. In a few seconds it had been reduced to nothing but ash. She turned her hand over and the specks of grey scattered in the wind. She had become quite used to the Petals' way of doing things, so she wasn't too bothered by this turn of events. No, if anything, she was excited. This mission was right up her alley.

She acknowledged Vildyrámok, catching a brief glimpse of his unnaturally red eyes - then she nodded and returned his handshake.   "My, what a pleasure this is,"   she said in a honeyed voice, too pleasant for the occasion. The paladin was a pretty woman with icy eyes and silky white hair; beneath her black cloak was a full set of gleaming armor. She was clean and put together, and her expression had turned oddly happy - though not for any evident reason. But after a minute, the approaching sound of a creaky wagon wheel caused her to change her act. Suddenly she was all grimace. She gave Vildyrámok a light push, apparently angry, as she gestured towards the broken-down cart before them.   "I told you this shabby thing wasn't worth the splinters it was made out of! Now look what's happened,"   she complained. She took a low stance as if she was going to try and raise it, pretending not to notice as the carriage drew nearer. Of course, this cart meant nothing to her, and she had never set foot inside it - but it was better to look in need when helping hands were likely.
Gaiyamato
Vildyrámok followed her cue, attempting his best natural response, he dropped his usual neutral expression into a frown of frustration. "    Look, we didn't have much choice did we? It isn't  my fault  that we got caught out like this! Just help me fix the damn thing so we can get moving again.     ". Mentally noticing the approaching group he knelt down beside Endymia and took a look at the broken wheel and axle . Beyond his skill to repair, and ultimately of no concern. His only thought about whether or not the approaching group might be friend or foe.
Cygnia
Meanwhile, from where they rode, Tommasia noticed the duo arguing and their broken cart.     "...what do you make of them -- ambush waiting to happen or just unlucky...?"    She said under her breath to the others in her band.
Ilerien
The elf muttered an arcane formula, dispersing a pinch of sparking dust in the air, and eyed the pair arguing over a broken cart.   Even ordinarily looking people right here right now would be suspicious, but these two are too colorful to be just random locals. Unless it's a double bluff.  
   - A coincidence would be unlikely given our circumstances. I'm almost sure these two are here because of our group, but the lack of even simple disguises or invisible beings around is curious. Cervena would've alerted us already if there were more people hiding somewhere close.    - said the wizard softly. He paused for a couple of moments and concluded:     - We should be ready for a potential fight, but let's stop and talk to them first. Offering help might be the way to go.   
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Evindal casts see invisibility on himself.
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena stopped and backtracked

She watched the others interact with the couple. She had seen them before, or so it seemed to her.

She climbed a rock and hummed a low tune while waiting.
Olive_Sophia
 

Once the carriage got closer, the white-haired woman seemed to take notice. She turned and inspected the vehicle, waving it over to ask for help. From what she could tell, this wasn't exactly a normal group of travelers. The cart was being pulled not only by horses, but by a warforged. Such things could happen, but still. The road they'd landed on didn't seem to be particularly active. Close scrutiny revealed that most of the wagon tracks here were very faded. But that carriage  had  decided to come this way. A human and an elf were peering out the front of the car, staring her down with skeptical eyes.  Perhaps... it was just a thought, but perhaps the higher-ups had made convening easy for them this time. Endymia started thinking of a way to test the approaching riders.

Once they'd approached within earshot, the paladin pleaded to them and made her case.   "Excuse me - you there! Please stop."   Her voice genuinely sounded somewhat desperate. She was good at this.   "Please, we need help. Our carriage is in ruins."   Once she had their attention, she went on.   "My friend and I are bound toward Blackwood. I'd wanted to visit my sister, Cervena."   Her practiced charm didn't allow her expression to budge as she voiced the name. But she was scanning the passenger's faces intently for any hint of reaction. If she could confirm their familiarity with the name here, it would be worth dropping the charade and moving on to the mission.

  "But now that this has happened, we're in a  real  bind."   She wiggled back and forth as she said this, looking embarrassed.
LairdMaon
Fully intent on staying in his role as a menial, Cur holds his tongue. The names Blackwood and Cervena are enough to cause him to twitch noticeably.
Auranghzeb
Cervena looked at the couple from afar, downwind the stench of her sister's evil soul was like blood in the water, she tensed all over. She had wanted to avoid her, but there was no way around it.

She approached, unable to contain a snarl.


  What are you even doing here?  
Gaiyamato
Vildyrámok continued to follow Endymia's lead without saying anything out loud that might ruin whatever plans she had. He stood, pulling his clothing in about himself, seeming to almost shrink away a little, making sure mainly his appearance didn't give anything away.      Surprisingly quick witted      he thought to himself about Endymia.      But I guess they wouldn't have sent her here with me otherwise     .

Noticing the elf mage sitting on the wagon, Vil took the time to quickly appraise him while Endymia conversed with them. He looked vaguely familiar, but doesn't appear to be anyone he knew from the college or the assembly. Which makes things easier if these are not the fellow petals they are meeting, as the chances of the elf knowing him diminishes any risk of the covers being blown at least.

He startled a little at the one probably called Cervena angrily addressing Endymia. Either this was a strange coincidence or clearly this group are the four petals they were meant to rendezvous with.       Amazingly accurate teleportation then      Vildyrámok mentally chuckles. Lowering his glasses a tiny amount, Vildyrámok stares intently at the two on the cart as the exchange continues, the bright red glint from his eyes hopefully not too noticeable.
Ilerien
The cart stopped. Evindal tilted his head a bit to the right, clearly assessing the demeanor of the woman in heavy armor.   Curious. Playing along might be fun.   Though, just as he was about to respond, he noticed Cervena approaching.   My, she is non too pleased with the sudden company.  
  - Blackwood, huh? An unusual destination given the current state of affairs in the area. I take it you're acquainted,   - he gave Cervena an encouraging nod and turned his attention to the man in blue robes. There was something oddly familiar to him even besides an oversized tome he carried on his back.   An arcane practitioner for sure. Likely not closely involved with the University. The beard. Reddish eyes. And the scars, he has a lot of them, an edge of one is showing. That Order member, and his research veers into unsavory areas of the arcane. Vald-something? He had a fancy title though. Thundermage?..   
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Bluff to not give away his surprise at Endymia mentioning the names:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] .
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The face of the elf that looked back at her was unreadable, giving nothing away. But the group as a whole definitively reacted to her hook. Even the mouth of the warforged seem to drop open in surprise. And from the woods emerged a woman that had previously gone undetected. It must have been the person she'd named. Endymia laughed a conceited laugh, her calculated sweetness quickly waning.   "So you are the ones,"   she concluded, before turning to the unexpected woman.   "I'm sorry to drag you into this, my dear  sister. "   Endymia flashed Cervena a broad smile, revealing a dangerous-looking pair of fangs among her otherwise perfect teeth. The sight of those sharp white protrusions made her unflinching grey gaze all the creepier. In truth, the two barely knew each other - and they certainly didn't look very much alike. Endymia had learned of Cervena's existence, and their relation, from the higher-ups; they'd been introduced, but she had yet to take the other woman's measure.

Endymia's unholy powers allowed her to pick up on traces of goodness in others, if she only concentrated. But she felt nothing from Cervena, neither good nor evil.   "So that's the kind of woman you are..."   she added cryptically. The only traces of light she felt were, surprisingly, from Vildryámok. She could see thin streams of light rising from his body in various places. Her own aura would be a surging shroud of evil, incomparable to the one she now felt.

  "Give us a ride, won't you?"   The paladin turned back towards the carriage and hopped on without being prompted; the weight of her heavy armor gave the whole vehicle a rock.   "Come on, Vil,"   she invited, waving her partner aboard with a wink. Afterwards she gave a brief introduction in a quieter tone.   "I am Endymia Sucourte. I will be assisting you all to the best of my ability. I'm a formidable knight, and a woman of discernment."   She was obviously quite a confident person.   "I can also work restorative wonders with my divine powers, if you're ever in need of them - as seems likely on such a job."  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Endymia detects a faint aura of goodness from Vildryámok. But Cervena's alignment is undetectable. Endymia emits a  strong  aura of evil.

Sense motive to notice Evindal's reaction.
[roll]1d20+3[/roll] = 15 (Failed by 1 - Evindal's bluff succeeded)
 
Gaiyamato
Vildyrámok stepped forward, a small smile on his face, and nodded to the group after his name is mentioned. The large black tome on his back bouncing against his crossbow and backpack with his movements."    Vildyrámok, Thundermage of the Assembly. It seems we shall be working together for the time being. Pleasure to meet you all.    " his voice sounding slightly surreal, booming and quiet at the same time, breathless yet somehow slightly terrifying.
Cygnia
Tommasia immediately picked up on the dislike between Cervena and this Endymia.     Family issues.  Great...   

This wasn't helping the sellsword's suspicions about someone higher up in the Rose Petals' ranks being a traitor.  Having two agents who obviously had issues with each other needing to work together on such a delicate assignment was a recipe for discord and trouble.

   If we survive this, Hackford needs to be investigated...   
Auranghzeb
Cervena, uncharacteristically unsettled, stared at the two newcomers. But an oath was a oath.
Noticing her knuckles were white with tension, and unable to escape the evil reek from her sister she shook her head and went away, scouting ahead the most inconspicuous group ever…
Just like father… she thought to herself.

She focused on the track, her senses ready for ambushes and lookouts.
Ilerien
  Vildyrámok. This is the name!  
The elf glanced at Tommasia momentarily.   I wonder how alike are our impressions of this encounter.  
  - The pleasure is all mine. Evindal Cairen,   - the elf introduced himself.   - I'm glad we're all friends here, and assistance from both of you is, of course, welcome. But for the sake of operational security... Who has sent you here? What instructions have you received? Do you have a written order?   - he asked with with the same unreadable expression.

Meanwhile, the cart resumed its steady movement.   It's becoming too crowded in here...  
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia took a seat, and forthwith was leaning back in comfort. She had an excited air about her, but she quietened down a bit as her thoughts turned to Blackwood. Her eyes were staring off somewhere as she pondered the possibilities. After a moment though, the elven man began to question her for more details. He seemed friendly enough, but she just couldn't tell what he thinking. She decided to answer honestly, considering that the party had welcomed her rather warmly.

  "It happened a lot like it usually does with high-priority jobs. I received summons from Hackford, and I was teleported here before I had a chance to think twice. It didn't have much in the way of details. Maintain the utmost secrecy, be cautious, and be prepared. But it did say that we were to rendezvous with you all, and make our way to Blackwood."   The woman's voice lowered to a faint whisper for the next bit, so that those who would hear her would have to lean in.   "And when there, we're to get rid of that enemy commander,"   her low, breathy voice confirmed. Again, she flashed a fanged smile - this time towards Evindal.   "Sounds like fun."  

She leaned back and resumed her normal affect to answer his last question.   "And of course the thing went up in smoke as soon as I'd read it."   The petals were thorough like that - a quality which Endymia greatly appreciated. Fewer loose ends left her in a stronger position to do her work.
Ilerien
  The definition of fun some people have. Useful for the Petals, though, no doubt.   Evindal sighed mentally.
Outwardly, the wizard smiled at the corners of his mouth.

  - Sounds exactly like Hackford, doesn't it?   - he nodded.   - Welcome to the group. I don't know if there's a collective name for a number of disembodied petals picked up by the wind,   - the elf sighed, audibly this time.   - I digress. You already possess the bare minimum of information required to accomplish the mission. Sadly, it's simultaneously almost the entirety of intel available. Before we proceed with our main goal, we'll have to identify the target. And before that... Well, you get the idea what kind of mission this one is,   - he smiled again, eyeing the companions in sight.
Cygnia
  "Hobgoblin with the rank of captain,"   said Tommasia.    "In theory, that should narrow things down.  Does anyone else speak the goblin language then?"  

Her sisters sneered that she would "lower" herself to learn the language.  Given the tension between the two empires, Tommasia figured it was better safe than sorry.

Besides, they had some rather  colorful  insults she could toss under her breath in her siblings' direction from back in the day.
BelGareth
As your group meets and exchanges information, you all hear the clarion call of something further up, it blares three bleats, it's wails echoing through the forest on all sides, making it a little tricky to pin point exactly where, but from all of you, you are able to discern it's location, something, or someones are coming down the trail. Moments later, you hear the distinct sound of marching armored feet, and the barking of what you assume to be their leader.
Gaiyamato
"    Well we know where the Captain is, Blackwood. A Hobgoblin Captain would be in command of 200 to 300 total troops? They will be occupying the town and surrounding area most likely. So the real issue isn't what we are doing, but how we do it.    " Vil replied in general to the ongoing conversation as he casually boarded the wagon. "    I guess we have 3 options then, we can try and infiltrate the town posing as members of the enemy forces and/or refugees or somesuch, we attack it with force and just count the corpses later, or we can attempt stealth to enter the town and kill the Captain and hope to slip out again after. I'm more in favour of the second option, but that doesn't seem to be how Hackford wants this done, and without additional information might be suicidal.    " He sits down, shuffling the book and pack around into his lap to make his position more comfortable.

As he finally gets comfortable the sound of an approaching force breaks the conversation. With a heavy sigh, Vildyrámok moves his pack and back across his back once more, and prepares himself mentally for a potential conflict. "    Sounds like we have more immediate concerns though.    "
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia listened coolly to Vildryámok's analysis, but she was surprised to hear his preferred plan. Taking the town by force and putting everyone to the sword was hardly what she had expected from a man with an aura like his. She nodded in approval. The idea was appealing to her, but still... taking on a force of that size would be risky, if his estimations were correct. She couldn't help but feel that a more precise strike would be the wiser move. But she didn't have time to voice her thoughts before the sound of approaching troops was heard. The dark paladin traded glances with the others before shuffling towards the back of the carriage, where she could easily dismount if need be. Endymia didn't have any snide comments at a time like this. Rather, she seemed absorbed in the moment, readying herself to react appropriately to the unexpected visitors.
Auranghzeb
Cervena stalked the large force coming, keeping hidden and counting the troops and their nature.
LairdMaon
Cur doesn't react to either the conversation behind him, nor the sounds of incoming company. He trusts that his team will share whatever important info there is to share and will get him caught up at their convenience. That's how a team should work by his understanding.

He keeps his eyes on the road and his ears tuned to the sounds around, ready to drop his guise and enter combat if necessary.
Cygnia
   "...we've got incoming ahead of us..."    murmured Tommasia, thankful now for a distraction to focus on.  Vildyrámok's opinion to just storm the entire town and let the gods sort it out was not helping her mood in the slightest.  If Hackford   was   setting them up to fail right at the start, he was doing a damn good job of it.     "Get off the road or bluff it out?"   
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia looked back towards Tommasia and answered her in a low voice.   "Either way, we don't want word of us reaching town before we do. And I doubt if there's time for us to hide now."   It was frustrating, but they were going to have to roll with it.   "Do you think you can talk them down? I don't know that I can. Groups of soldiers are often.. unyielding."  
Cygnia
Tommasia thought for a moment.  Then...

   "Cur, make for the side of the road.  Keep normal pace though.  As if we're just yielding right of way to them.  With any luck, they'll just march on by.  If not, leaving the talking to me.  Mercenary band just looking for work."   
Ilerien
Evindal nodded in agreement.

   - I would prefer to avoid a fight, but in case anyone feels it's imminent, signal the attack using the phrase "It's going to rain". This might win us a couple of moments.   

Then the elf took out a copper piece covered with verdigris and murmured an incantation.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Evindal casts  detect thoughts  (will DC 19) and will concentrate on it until further notice.
 
Gaiyamato
"    So Tommasia will speak for the group and convince them we are looking for work? Sounds good. I'll wait out of the way until I hear you say "it's going to rain" then. Sounds like the best plan we have to me.    " he replies to the exchange.

As the wagon begins to head to the side of the road, Vildyrámok pushes his glasses back onto his face and jumps back out of the wagon. He walks around to the side that will face away from the oncoming soldiers so as to keep his presence vaguely unknown for the time being, walking in step with the rear wheel. Not so much hiding, just not standing in plain sight.
Auranghzeb
Cervena circled around the incoming group, doing her best to remain unseen and assess their numbers and intentions.

She only wished they had established some sort of channel of communication, these Petals were not very tactically advanced, but it was also partly her fault, she had let her emotions take over when she saw her sister.

"Anger is for fools" she told herself, but her sister's stench of evil was hard to stomach. Those not blessed with her senses would never be able to understand.

Cervena crouched low and moved swiftly through the densest part of the forest to spy on the marching group.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Listen  (1D20+17)[ 20 ] 
SPOT: (1D20+18)[ 27 ] 
Hide: (1D20+14)[ 21 ] 
MS: (1D20+14)[ 27 ] 
 
LairdMaon
Cur, obedient as any servant or draft steed, pulls the cart to the side of the road without stopping or slowing. He keeps his eyes straight ahead and on the road.

Over his shoulder, he grunts,   "Please keep in mind that my servitude will not be a thing outside of this role. Enjoy it for now." 
BelGareth
As you pull of to the side of the road, all eyes on the road, and the oncoming enemy patrol, you all hear them before you see them, or perhaps hear  more  of them, the chatter, and clamor of armor, the rustling of leather, and the dull rhythmic stomping of many feet into dirt over and over again. They breach the bend and abruptly halt with wide eyes and panicked faces.

 "HALT!"  the sergeant says to his squad  "Contact front! Resk and Gruek to the flanks, Ghangis take your team and investigate, Sorchel provide cover, and Esgenum take the rearguard"  he barks out in quick succession, the patrol disseminates into it's working parts and within a few heartbeats, you see a group of well armed and disciplined Hobgoblins coming towards you, their tower shields held, hand on the pommel of their swords as they approached, several bowmen had their arrows knocked looking in your direction.

They were well dressed, their armor was clean of rust, and had that oil smell of well kept metal, their sandals were of good leather, and not a one looked hungry, or in the wrong place, these were professional soldiers, and each one fit their gear, and they carried it with the ease and knowledge of a trained men. The leader strides forward to you all  "HALT AND IDENTIFY YOURSELVES" 
Cygnia
   ...showtime...   
  "OI!  HEEL, BEAST!"   barked Tommasia to the warforged pulling their cart (and mentally promising herself to buy Cur a drink should they make it out alive from this).  Keeping her hands in view, the sellsword then hopped out the cart with the hint of a grin, Jinx at her side. She nodded towards the others in the cart.   "All right, crew -- look alive, yeah!"  

The woman took a few steps closer to the apparent leader.  Mentally, Tommasia ordered Jinx to position herself right next to the hobgoblin barking out orders.  The apparition yawned and stretched lazily after it did so.  Tommasia stood at attention herself.   'Bout time, 'bout time... I'm Tey'em, saer and we're the Ghost Panthers.  Looking for work, looking for  opportunity .  We can see which way the wind's blowin' an' want t' be part of the  winnin'  side.  Are you in charge then?"  
 
 Spoiler: Actions 

 Taking 10 on Bluff &amp; Diplomacy for 22 &amp; 28 respectively.   Since Jinx is next to the leader, any enemy adjacent to your dark companion takes a -2 penalty on its saves and to its AC -- which would include the save to Evindal's Detect Thoughts ;)

[roll]1d20+12[/roll] Bluff
[roll]1d20+18[/roll] Diplomacy
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia stayed quiet, waiting to see whether the commanding officer would take the bait. She was propped up nonchalantly behind the cart, but her fingers were digging into the hilt of her halberd. All the tension in the air made the moment draw itself out interminably. If things turned sour, she would be tearing these armored goblins to pieces in a few second's time. The soldiers looked like professionals, but then, so were they. She'd take their chances if it came to that. Now was the crucial moment. Now it was time to see whether they'd be leaving a wake of blood on their way into Blackwood.
Ilerien
Just before the patrol could notice them Evindal moved closer to the back of the cart and assumed relaxed, even bored exterior.

Even while concentrating on the hobgoblin soldiers' mental presence he smiled inwardly at Tommasia's performance.   Now let's see if he buys it.  
The elf focused his attention on the officer. It was delicate work, to dismantle someone's mental defenses and peer into their thoughts with the target none the wiser.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I assume by this time Evindal knows intelligence scores of people in 60 ft cone.
 
BelGareth
The hobgoblin sergeant eyes Tommasia and her crew with suspicion, taking in their appearances and the words she spoke. He holds his ground, his expression stern and unmoving. Behind him, the rest of the patrol remains vigilant, shields raised, ready to respond to any sign of aggression.

 "You claim to be the Ghost Panthers, seeking work and opportunity?"  the hobgoblin sergeant responds, his voice gruff and skeptical.  "And you expect us to believe that you simply wish to join our cause?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Bluff failed, but diplomacy was successful
 
Gaiyamato
Taking off his glasses and letting out a small sigh, Vildyrámok steps around the corner, activating his devil sight. He steps out around the rear of the caravan, his large black spellbook with it's demonic looking motif at his side facing the Hobgoblin leader, the burn scars on his face visible and his eyes glowing a bright and very obvious evil looking red, with his pupils looking like those of a cat. "    Do we look like we are some band of pathetic do-gooders? I am no human. We kill who we are told to to kill, and we want to get paid for it. My soul belongs to the lords of the nine hells, I can serve no other masters except those that enter into a contract with me for payment. So all you need to ask yourself is what sort of people would willingly work with me? Our leader here has offered you the services of talented killers nothing else.    " he spoke, emphasising the distorted qualities of his voice a little to push the point, but clearly a little annoyed, yet still softly spoken at the same time. "    But, I am merely a mass murderer, so I will leave the exact details and nature of our agreement up to her capable hands.    " he finished, leaning against the back of the wagon and pushing his glasses back onto his face.
Cygnia
The fact that the hobgoblins weren't automatically attacking was a good thing.  More time to talk meant hopefully more time to ferret out information, both through mundane and magical means by way of Evindal's spell.  But before Tommasia could continue, the warmage decided to pipe up.

  "Easy, boy..."   The hint of an edge tinged the sellsword's words as she shot Vildyrámok a pointed look -- one any soldier regardless of species would be familiar as "speak only when you're damn well spoken to".  She turned back to the hobgoblin addressing her, flashing him a tight, quick smile and sighed.    "...they get  so  eager sometimes.  But yes, consider us a newly formed band.  Joined together by a common goal -- the elimination and humiliation of that mewling ponce who thinks she farts sunshine!  Each of us wronged in some way by that so-called 'Queen'.  My own family EXECUTED on her orders due to a bloody whim--!"  

Letting the rage appear to bubble, Tommasia spat in disgust and scowled dramatically, then allowed herself the pause in order to compose herself.  That last statement was, after all, technically true in some part.

  "Indeed, revenge is sweet.  Revenge while getting paid is even better.    War is all well and good, but you and your army aren't subtle.  You need folks who can walk amongst the lot here and tell you what's up beforehand. Where and who to hit. You -- you  need  me and my crew..."  

And if there was a traitor already in the Rose Petals, maybe an offer like this would flush out who it was for Evindal to pick up in the hobgoblins' thoughts...
Auranghzeb
Cervena was still undetected, there was a decision to be made, she could remain in shadows, or she could reveal herself.

The rest of the petals were out, but she decided it was not time to give away her position. She stalked the regiment and identified soft spots. Her only regret was the tactical misstep of not having established a line of communication with the group.
BelGareth
 
 Spoiler: Surface Thoughts 

"Ugh, why do we have to deal with these travelers? I just want to get this over with and return to camp. No time for distractions."
"Finally, a chance to prove myself as a capable leader. This encounter might be my opportunity to impress the sergeant and advance in rank."
"I hope these outsiders give us a reason to attack. It's been too long since I've had some real action."
"Stay focused. We must be cautious and ready for anything."
"This is just another routine encounter. Let's get through this quickly and get back to camp."
"I wonder if these travelers have any valuables we could take."
"I hope they try something. I'm itching for a fight!"
"I can't believe we have to deal with this. Boring!"
"I wish I was back at camp. Why do we have to handle this?"
"If the sergeant gives the command, I'll tear these travelers apart!"
 
Gaiyamato
Vildyrámok nods at the order given by Tommasia. Adopting a more submissive stance he moves back to the other side of the wagon again to lean at his post, using the wagon wheel to block the view to him again, waiting for further instructions.
LairdMaon
Cur remains standing in a pose similar to parade rest. Between watching for signs of impending attack and feeling the weight of his spiked chain, currently wrapped around a wrist like a bracelet, he's ready for action... maybe even looking forward to it.
Olive_Sophia
 

Still leaning against the back of the cart in a nonchalant manner, Endymia couldn't help but raise an eyebrow when she heard Vildyrámok's words. That he was a mass-murderer, and a servant of the nine hells?   'Tch. What a crock,'   she thought. She would have felt that on him right away. And yet, the book he displayed  did  have a sinister quality about it. The man obviously had quite the story to tell - if he could live long enough to share it.

To the paladin's ears, Tommasia's appeal was an easier pitch, but still, it sounded a bit bold. She considered stepping forward to aid in the act, but thought better of it.   'No... I'm armed to the teeth right now; my appearance wouldn't exactly mesh with what she's saying... For the moment, the less attention I draw to myself, the better.'  
BelGareth
As Tommasia speaks, the expressions of the hobgoblins remain unchanged, and their thoughts echo their initial skepticism and distrust. The corporal's thoughts reflect his doubts about the adventurers' claims.  "This tale sounds too convenient. They want us to believe they're just mercenaries seeking revenge? There's something they're not telling us." 

The sergeant's mind is resolute, his thoughts a mixture of caution and determination.  "No matter how convincing they sound, we can't let our guard down. These outsiders could be spies or troublemakers. We must continue with the original plan." 

The rest of the patrol remains vigilant, their thoughts a combination of suspicion and readiness to respond to any potential threats. They share silent glances, maintaining their defensive formation and keeping a close watch on the adventurers.

Evindal's magical influence subtly weaves through the hobgoblins' thoughts, confirming their disbelief in the adventurers' story. The spell detects a consistent undercurrent of doubt and wariness about the travelers' true intentions.

The speaking hobgoblin stiffens and frowns  "I do not believe you."  he says simply, and you all notice the tell tale tensing of bow strings, grips, and muscle in preparation for combat.

 
 Spoiler 

 Map 
Only edit your own stuff please.
Roll init if you are going to that.
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia noticed the situation slowly going south, but things got much more tense all at once when the speaking hobgoblin finally rejected them. A wave of aggression passed through the crowd, and it felt like anyone near the cart was about to become target practice. The paladin sighed, but then she smiled. It seemed a shame that things had turned out like this; but then again, had she ever really wanted to avoid it? Deception was a convenience - something temporary and ultimately unreliable. But a contest of a violence? That was just destiny. The outcome was bound to be determined like this sooner or later. Endymia brushed back long strands of her white hair and tried to restrain her giddy smile, but was unsuccessful.

Suddenly she whipped around of the corner of the cart, her gleaming halberd held outwards. It was a dangerous looking weapon - with two sharpened blades and a spear point at the end of its long haft. She faced the soldiers brazenly now. Her eyes met theirs for the first time. Large and opened wide, they seemed very focused.

  "Fine then,"   she replied.   "But know that you've just surrendered your last days of life to me."   She hissed and bared her vicious, viperlike fangs at the goblinoids. Destiny was calling.



 
 Spoiler: OOC 

 Initiative 
 (1d20-1)[ 11 ] 
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena's muscles tightened. It was time for action.

She moved swiftly and pounced on the nearest group of enemies, she wanted to create havoc.


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled an 18 for iniative.

Cervena will manifest psionic lion's charge and charge/pounce  SL  on AB 34

Kukri 1: +1 Bane Evil
 (1d20+18)[ 20 ]   (1d4+11)[ 12 ] 
Kukri 2:  +1
 (1d20+18)[ 25 ]   (1d4+7)[ 9 ] 

Kukri 1 second attack:
 (1d20+13)[ 15 ]   (1d4+11)[ 13 ] 
 

   Cervena   
f NG Human Ranger 2/Ardent 5/SoK2,  Level  9,  Init  11,  HP  66/66,  Speed  40/ Levitate at will
 AC  24 (Currently 22)  Touch  16,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  9,  Ref  8,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  7/2,  Power Points  39/43
 +1 Hunting / +1 kukri Old Kukris x2    +14 (+18 vs Evil, +22 vs Evil Arcanists) (1d4+7 (+11 vs Evil), 18-20 x2)
   A staff, any staff   +12 (+16 vs Evil) ( ,  )
   Force Armor  (+6 Armor, +2 Dex, +2 Deflect, +2 Natural, +2 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8
 Condition  None
Gaiyamato
Realising what is about to happen and watching the others ready for combat, Vildyrámok grinned, his face splitting in an unnaturally large smile as for the first time he bared his sharp teeth. Power surged through him along with the adrenaline before battle as he began to convert raw arcane power into electrical power. It was all he could manage to suppress his glee at things going poorly and the chance to for him to let loose with his best spells, even better when the smouldering corpses will be evil creatures.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Initiative:  18 
 Rolled in Discord 
 
Ilerien
  They aren't going to believe us. The attempt was worth it, but rampant slaughter it is then.  
  - Permission to speak, commander?   - Evindal asked Tommasia and after a brief pause addressed the corporal.   - It's a pity. Imagine the opportunity for promotion bringing us under your wing is going to open,   - he sighed theatrically.   - And to think we expected a warm welcome and shelter for the night comfier than this sorry cart. It's going to rain soon, you know.  
The elf turned his wrist in one sharp motion, pointing his index finger at Vildyrámok, and uttered a short incantation. A sudden jolt almost caused the hellbred mage to jump.


 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Evindal drops concentration on  detect thoughts  (no action required).
Initiative roll:  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] .
Immediate action right before the combat starts:  nerveskitter  (yes, the spell has this weird trigger specifically) on Vil, +5 to initiative.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  49/49 (9 HD),  Speed  30 ft
 AC  22,  Touch  16,  Flat-footed  18 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection)
 Fort  8,  Ref  10,  Will  8,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +2 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +8 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +8 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   greater mage armor ,  see invisibility 
 
LairdMaon
Cur removes the chain from his wrist and holds it out from his right hand as it grows into a fully sized and wickedly spiked chain. Once it reaches full length, he grasps it with both hands before him; mere moments later both his weapon and his body grow again. When the change is finally complete, in the place of the Cur that pulled the cart, is a monstrous metal girallon holding a massive length of sharp chain in all four hands.

He stands ready, waiting for the cue to attack.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 

Initiative  (1d20+3)[ 11 ] 
 
Cygnia
  "Indeed...and bad luck for them, ain't it?"   grinned Tommasia as drew out her greatsword and spat out what sounded like a vulgarity.  But what language it was wasn't spoken around these parts...

 
 Spoiler: Action 

Initiative 4 *sighs*
Swift action: Casting Karmic Aura (duration 8 rounds)

 
 Spoiler: Spell notes 

While this spell is in effect, any creature within range that deals damage to you with an attack, spell, or other effect becomes fatigued for 3 rounds. A successful Will save indicates that the attacker is unaffected and immune to the spell's effect until the start of your next turn, but must save again if he damages you after that point. An attacker already fatigued suffers no additional effect from this spell.
 

 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30
 AC  20,  Touch  12,  Flat-footed  20,  Fort  15,  Ref  10,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +12/+7 (2d6+4, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +10/+5 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural)
 Abilities  Str 14, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)
 
BelGareth
 Round 1 
    Initiative 
 Player 
 
  25 
 Evindal 
 
  23 
 Vil 
 
  18.5 
 Cervena 
 
  11.5 
 Cur 
 
  11 
 Endymia 
 
  5 
 Bad Guys 
 
  4 
 Tommasia 
 
  

Everyone except Tommasia can act, then the bad guys, then we go into you all then bad guys.

 
 Spoiler 

 Map 
 
Ilerien
Evindal jumped out of the cart and darted across the road, retrieving a strip of pork rind from the pouch on his belt on the go, then stopped and spoke an arcane formula, pointing his index finger in the direction of the hobgoblins. As the rind dissolved into slick oily substance, the same substance, apparently, covered most of the ground the patrol was standing on.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: move across the road.

Standard action: cast  sculpted grease . 20-ft radius spread, centered on the top left corner of T2's square (this should get every visible hobgoblin except for T4), Reflex DC 20 (they're flat-footed) to avoid going prone, Balance DC 10 to move through the area at half speed (failure by 5 means the creature falls prone).

As he gets back his immediate action right at the end of is turn, he's going to use Abrupt Jaunt to teleport into some bushes if he's ever attacked.
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The enemy forces were slow to react, perhaps shocked by the sudden change in their approach. The petals, on the other hand, were quick on their feet. Evindal hurried across the street and conjured a large slippery area underneath the hobgoblins' feet. After delivering her threat, Endymia sprang into action, thinking to herself,   'Dragon Queen, grant me a savage victory...'   She charged at the nearest soldier with surprising speed, her halberd lowered as if she was going to run him through. But at the last moment she feinted, and drew in close to him for a bite....

Her fangs sank deep into the soldier's neck, and with a semi-conscious effort she filled his throat with a deadly dose of venom - the man wriggling uncomfortably all the while. Then she jerked her teeth free and pushed him off. A chilling glee was evident on her face as she wiped the blood from her lips.   "Does it sting?"   she asked in a taunting voice.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


EDIT: This entire post technically never happened. I'll leave it up for posterity though.

Free Action: Activate Divine Might

Full-Round Action: Endymia will charge at TL/T3 (whichever is alive) and attack with her Poison fangs. (Power Attacking for 2). Her target is Flat-footed, receiving no Dex Bonus to AC. His current AC is reduced by 3 because of Tommasia's Dark Companion and Endymia's Debilitating Aura. It will potentially be lowered by another 4 if the target is prone from the grease. Since he's being attacked while balancing, he needs to make a Balance check (DC 10) to not fall prone if he isn't already.

 Attack Roll:   (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
 Damage:   (1d8+10)[ 14 ]   (Bludgeoning, Slashing, and Piercing)

On a hit, the solider needs to make a DC 17 Fortitude save or he will take

 (1d6)[ 6 ]   Con Damage  from Endymia's poison.

Con Damage lowers HP, meaning that this would effectively deal 3xHD additional damage.
 
Gaiyamato
His grin going nowhere, Vildyrámok immediately began to prepare his spell. Pulling out a pinch of sulphur and a small pinch of ground amber from his component pouch and puling them into his left hand, he began to pull the arcane power into him, chanting the arcane words with an almost alien sounding overtone. Any casual observance from another arcane caster who knows the fireball spell would at the same time recognize it, and also find the changes to the spell highly unusual. Instead of forming a bead of super heated fire between his palms, a ball of bright white electricity formed. Small sparks and arcs of blue electricity spread up Vil's hands and arms as the spell power built up, only to crackle once more out of existence. Once he had a tiny sphere of compressed writhing white energy he focused his gaze at the exact same spot Evindal had cast his spell only seconds earlier - Vil internally noting it an excellent target location for their spells - and let it loose.
The spell tracked a tiny bright while line of energy through the air and struck it's target. For half a second the air itself seemed to stop, and nothing happened, then the spell exploded out, a wall of heat and enormous arcs of bright white lightning striking and dancing across every object, tree and Hobgoblin unfortunate enough to be caught within the blast zone. The heat a near tangible wall to those outside of it's radius, before, just as quickly as it had exploded it ended.

 
 Spoiler: ooc 

Acting on Initiative: 23 (18+5 bonus from spell).

Standard action: Cast Energy Substituted (Electricity) Fireball at Caster level 11. 20-ft radius spread, centered on the top left corner of T2's square (same area as Ilerien's grease spell),10D6 damage, Reflex DC 20 (they're flat-footed) for half base damage. +3 damage from Warmage Edge.

Hobs hit: A4, A3, SL, T1, T2, T3, TL

Move action: Stepping back down one square to use the wagon as cover.

" The fireball sets fire to combustibles and damages objects in the area. It can melt metals with low melting points, such as lead, gold, copper, silver, and bronze. "
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena moved like the wind, coming from the trees with speed and aiming for the archers.


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Swift: Manifest Hustle
Hustle: Move to the spot where my token and levitate over the grease.
Fullround. Full attack SL

Kukri 1 +1 Hunting
 (1d20+18)[ 34 ]  damage  (1d4+15)[ 17 ] 
Kukri 2 +1
 (1d20+18)[ 22 ]  damage  (1d4+11)[ 13 ] 


Kukri 1 second attack
 (1d20+13)[ 28 ]  damage  (1d4+15)[ 16 ] 
 
LairdMaon
Like some monstrous statue come to life, Cur strides forward, his heavy feet leaving impressions in the dirt. His chain whirls to life, whipping about and slashing at the air around him as he closes with a hobgoblin inside the edge of the electrified grease.

He makes no sound beyond the susurrus of his steel body as he lashes out with the chain.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 

Move to AH35

Attacking T3
To Hit:  (1d20+19)[ 34 ] 
(base attack without any modifiers included for Prone or other statuses)
To Hurt:  (1d8+28)[ 31 ] 
 
BelGareth
It was over in the span of 6 seconds, 1 breath, a few heart beats, and it was over.

Evindal covered the aggressive patrol in grease in what would be an overly dramatic fashion, as Vil cast a ball of lighting that erupted between all the hobgoblins within, their gear, armor, and any small pieces of metal fusing together, melting, rivets from armor melted through and into their skin, bolts danced in their eyes, and boiled their brains. The screams coming from all of them and the sudden barrage of carnage shocked the squad leader into speechlessness.

Which was cut short by the slashing blades of Cervena, who loped up to the hobgoblin, and butchered the man like a piece of cattle, his last moments were wandering why his suddenly felt warm liquid from his chest as he lay down slowly, his squad dead, his life draining, but why, what had it all been for?

The remaining soldiers stumble out, eyes wide open, shocked, one had soiled himself, his weapons and what he was holding all but forgotten. They both vomit, one after the other.

 
 Spoiler 

Shock of war checks
Will save DC 24 or be shaken for 1 minute
Fort save DC 24 or become nauseated for 1 minute
 
Gaiyamato
As the dust, steam and smoke begins to clean, Vildyrámok peers around the wagon, reading another spell, only to see that all the Hobgoblins are either dead or have surrendered.
He lets out a small prayer to Thor under his breath and then allows his body to relax, not having noticed how tense his first combat in years had made him feel. The grin he had on his face earlier faded, to be replaced with some guilt over the bloodshed, and the after effects of the adrenaline surge. He began a small involuntary shiver as his blood pressure dropped a little.

Stepping forward to survey the grim scene the steam and smoke from the charred and still sizzling corpses washed over him. The smell making him gag, his stomach turning over for a moment.
The holy Lightning of Thor, and unending war against the forces of evil might be his trade, but the smell of freshly burned flesh was still something he had never fully come to grips with.
For a minute he worked to gather hit wits and stomach, while focusing on the rapid beat of his heart as it gradually slowed.

As the seconds ticked by and his reason overwhelmed his emotions and the adrenaline he began to calm down once more, steeling himself for what was yet to come.
LairdMaon
Grunting with disgust, Cur turns away from the burnt corpses.  "That- that was excessive. Effective, but excessive."  Shaking his head, he secures his chain around a wrist once more as he returns to his original size and shape.
Ilerien
Though Evindal disliked violence in general, he's aware sometimes it's unavoidable. He participated in enough fights, including ones that had destructive magic involved, to know full well what people burned alive looked and sounded like and to be able to lock up that little boy screaming in horror somewhere deep inside. This was even mercifully quick, as someone burned by his own weapon of choice, so to speak, generally suffered longer. What he wasn't able to insulate against was the stench of burned meat reaching him a moment later. It happened so fast, he breathed in before realizing his mistake and immediately covered his mouth with both hands trying not to empty his stomach and turned towards to bushes in case he failed.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Will save: 26 (rolled in discord).
Fort save: 12 (ditto).
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena had seen too many violent battles. That's why she lives so far away and so secluded. But war is like this. She turns around to face the two remaining hobgoblins and tells them in a low but clearly imperative voice:

  Drop your weapons and lie flat in the ground with both hands stretched out. We need to ask you some questions.  

She then sends a quick glance to her sister, surely the evil seed is relishing this bloodbath. There was the essential difference between them: Endymia was bloodthirsty like father.
Cygnia
Tommasia felt her stomach churn at the slaughterhouse and took some breaths to try and steady herself after she spat out some escaping bile.  This was very much NOT a subtle turn of events.

Still, as Cervena questioned the two remaining shell-shocked soldiers, she mentally sent Jinx over to stand between the two hapless hobs.  The panther easily walked through the greasy carnage as if without a care in the world.

   "...gonna need to move these corpses away from the road..."     the mercenary managed to croak out, stamping out what she spat out all the while.
Olive_Sophia
 
  "Good work,"   Endymia said, directing her compliment towards Vildyrámok with an impressed nod. The paladin snuffed at the smell of burnt flesh, but she wasn't affected by it. Fire and lightning were common tools of battle. This was admittedly a bit extreme, but she had inflicted more gruesome wounds in the past. She kicked over a body and confirmed its death as she approached the remaining soldiers, halberd in hand. Inside, her heart was thumping from the adrenaline of the split second battle. A dull thumping behind her temples had her set on edge. She was about to raise her weapon when she caught Cervena's fierce look of defiance. It took Endymia a moment to realize what it meant:  'I'm not letting you kill these men.' 

The evil woman's expression turned to annoyance, bordering on anger.   "Oh you  can't  be serious. I had misjudged you..."   She squeezed the bridge of her nose with two fingers, working through the difficulty. She continued in a fairly reasonable voice, though with a touch of accusation.   "Ask yourself this: What is worse for our mission right now? A few more bodies in that pile?- Or two walking, talking, liabilities?"  
LairdMaon
 "Returning them to their base could work in our favor. We defended ourselves from their unjust attack. Tried to keep them alive. We are compassionate, enduring, and,"  he gestures behind him, at the carnage,  "too dangerous to pick a fight with." 
BelGareth
The air crackled with tension as the surviving hobgoblins stood there, battle-shocked and weaponless. Their eyes darted from the still-smoldering ground where their companions had met their fiery end to the party that had emerged from the onslaught unscathed.

Hands trembling, the hobgoblins let what weapons they still had fall to the ground with a clatter. They exchanged a quick, uncertain glance, their camaraderie shattered by the unexpected devastation they had just witnessed. The once-confident soldiers now stood before a group that seemed to defy the natural order, their resolve visibly shaken.

The party's instruction continued, clear and authoritative.  "Lie flat on the ground with both hands stretched out."  The hobgoblins complied, their battle-hardened instincts temporarily overridden by the overwhelming force they had encountered. The ground, still warm from the lightning's touch, accepted their surrender.
Auranghzeb
As the hobgoblins obbeyed her instructions, Cervena walked towards Endymia and spoke almost imperceptibly to her ear

  Compromise our mission? That's rich on you and that slaughterhouse of a wizard! This was a simple assassination no-fuzz, no fanfare, and you waltzed in a cart looking like a circus and slaughtered a platoon. Nah, we keep these alive, and we stop talking about the mission for everyone to hear. You don't even know if anyone is watching. 
Olive_Sophia
 
  "Listen to yourself now. You're the one who's leaking information!"   Endymia shot back in a whispered voice. This was clearly turning into another sisterly dispute.   "Your insults aside, we tried to leave them be.  They  attacked  us.  How do you intend to let them live after this little encounter? Are you going to put them in chains and watch over them night and day? Ridiculous. Don't tell me that's your idea of kindness."   The white-haired woman scoffed.   "Realistically, I can't let them leave here. At least, not with their tongues and fingers intact."  
Gaiyamato
Vil had begun to drag the smoldering remains of the corpses off the side of the road, so far only barely managing a single one with some effort, not being a physical sort. He had been listening to the fight between these... 'sisters'? He wasn't sure of their relationship but they seemed to greatly dislike each other either way. He decided to speak up as the situation required a quick resolve.

"    Firstly, I am against slaughtering them in cold blood. Carnage of battle is perfectly fine if the situation arises as it did. But they surrendered and are our prisoners. That said we can neither keep prisoners on this mission, nor can we allow them to leave. Even cutting out tongues and other horrid ideas might prove ineffective vs magical means to extract information. We cannot even fully trust to leaving corpses behind if the enemy possesses the means to raise or speak to the dead. So one way or another they have to die, even though they did surrender and have been complying. We should clean up and leave here quickly I think.     " He said while catching his breath from the effort of trying to drag a dead body.
He paused thinking for a moment. "    Thor says that surrender in battle is a cowardly act, but these are evil Hobgolins, so hardly going to behave honorably at any rate. What about a duel? The two prisoners fight Endymia and Cervena to the death. No magic, just the clash of steel. If they win, the rest of us will let them walk. If they lose, well the gods have decided their fate. What do you think? At least we wouldn't be killing them in cold blood, heck they even have a chance at survival here, and I have a feeling the fight should be quick and not draw any more attention. Either that or we just accept we have to do what is practical and necessary, and unfortunately take them out right now.     " From a practical standpoint Vildyrámok knew they couldn't let them go. Searching for an answer to the problem at hand.

He started walking toward another corpse with the intention of dragging it to the side of the road as well.
Auranghzeb
Cervena never ceased to be amazed by her sister rationalization of violence. And now, after basically laying out the whole mission she dared accusing her of leaking information when she basically whispered in her ear.


  Never change Endymia  

But then there was the suggestion of a duel.

 You want a show? Go to the arena. We got.... I got work to do. 


She moved toward one of the hobgoblins and grabbed him by the collar to drag him out of the road.


 Let's have a talk.

How many of you are there in the camp?
What are the perimeter defenses. 
Ilerien
Having fended off the nausea (though he tried not to breathe through his nose until further notice) Evindal strolled to Tommasia and whispered in her ear specifically so the prisoners wouldn't be able to overhear:
 - Here goes our hope to slip into Blackwood in some innocuous manner. Having this many people on the same mission and no established hierarchy is always a tradeoff,  - he sighed.  - Luckily, these two are too scared of us so far to notice we can't agree what to do with them, but this might change. The most sensible course of action is interrogation and subsequent disposal. But in case Cervena refuses to go with the latter, we can try to instill the hobgoblins with a belief they can't act counter to our instructions without suffering dire consequences. A genuine geas would be ideal, but curses of this kind are far from my specialty. Describing the effects to them in great detail might be the next best thing. Opens a couple of opportunities for some clever deception... Speaking of deception,  - the elf watched Cervena drag one of the prisoners away.  - Let's give them a little nudge, shall we? A bad petal and a good petal, with a sprinkle of mind manipulation. 
Evindal focused on the remaining hobgoblin who was lying on the ground, crossed his wrists and performed a set of sharp gestures, reciting an arcane formula.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Charm person  on the hobgoblin Cervena isn't interrogating, will DC 18 (19, if he's denied his dex bonus to AC in the current circumstances). Jinx lowers his saves by 2.
 If the creature is currently being threatened or attacked by you or your allies, however, it receives a +5 bonus on its saving throw. 

This rule likely applies here.
 
Gaiyamato
"    Magical compulsion works well enough I guess then.    " Vildyrámok responds to Evindal.

He shrugs and goes back to trying to drag the corpses into a neat pile by the road, keeping an eye out for anything useful that wasn't destroyed by the spell on the bodies.

 
 Spoiler: ooc 

Given Endymia and Evindal seem to be the only ones making any sense, he will just let them all do whatever they are going to do and is going to focus on the post battle cleanup and looting.
 
BelGareth
The remaining hobgoblin under the party's scrutiny shifted nervously, his eyes darting between the members of the group. The gravity of the situation was palpable, and he knew that his life and his compatriot's lives hung in the balance. Cervena's gaze remained fixed on him, a mixture of sternness and curiosity in her eyes.

"Let's have a talk," she stated, her tone even, her voice carrying the weight of authority and experience. She crossed her arms, waiting for his response. "How many of you are there in the camp?" Her question hung in the air, the silence pregnant with tension.

The hobgoblin swallowed hard, his adam's apple bobbing as he considered his words. Fear and uncertainty played across his features, mingling with the fading echoes of battle-shock.  "Th-there are ten of us,"  he stammered, his voice trembling.  "We're part of a larger unit stationed in the area." 

Cervena nodded, her expression unyielding as she absorbed the information. Her next question was delivered with the same directness. "What are the perimeter defenses?" Her eyes bore into his, searching for any signs of deception.

The hobgoblin shifted uneasily, his eyes avoiding Cervena's gaze for a moment before he continued.  "The camp is pretty standard,"  he admitted, his voice still quivering.  "The Centurion leads us. We've set up defensive trenches and wooden palisades, using the natural terrain to our advantage. A squad of archers is usually posted on raised platforms to provide cover, and we have a few ballistae for heavier ranged attacks." 

Meanwhile, a different scene was unfolding nearby. The second surviving hobgoblin had fallen under the sway of a charm spell, the enchantment weaving its magic around his mind. His gaze softened, and a faint smile crept across his lips as he regarded the caster. The charm had worked as intended, his hostility replaced by a newfound friendliness. He seemed open, even eager, to answer any questions or follow any instructions given by the charmer.
LairdMaon
Something akin to a growl resonates from deep within Cur's torso. The growl continues unbroken as Cur gathers up several swords from the mess of partially cooked hobgoblin.

Eventually, he selects a blade with minor damage and commences digging a large hole.  "There are more digging tools here, for any of you wants to join me. Also, I need a headcount for the dead. I lost count in the briefness of the tumult." 
Ilerien
Evindal approached and smiled despite the sour taste in his mouth, as his compulsion was visibly taking root in the hobgoblin's mind. He hunkered down in front of the hobgoblin to bring himself to the same level, so any perceived threat from him would be gone completely, and asked in soft and friendly tone:
  - Don't be afraid. It's over, everything will be fine now. We're going to have a little talk, surely you wouldn't mind. What's your name, friend?  
BelGareth
The charmed hobgoblin, his demeanor significantly softened by Evindal's magic, gazed at the elven enchanter with a newfound sense of trust. His initial apprehension had been replaced by a sense of camaraderie.

With a slight smile, he replied,  "I'm Grom. You... you can call me Grom."  His voice was less strained and fearful, and there was a hint of relief in his eyes.
Auranghzeb
Cervena sneered at what she knew was happening on the battleground.

 So be the spoils of war, the fields that sow seeds of hate.  She said to herself.

Then spoke with the hobgoblin.

 I have no ill-feelings towards you, we all have a job to do and mine is as unpleasant as it can be. But I must do it. I can't save your life from those who enjoy the dark parts of our work and join wars to quelch their thirst for violence. So I have learnt does your people, You have witnessed yourself how little value have lives to some of us. I'm trying to do this with minimum carnage, and you will help me. I trust your well trained instincts: Draw in this dirt the perimeter of the camp and describe your centurion to me.
Then I'll let you decide what your fate will be.  
Ilerien
  I hate this. Every time.  

Evindal smiled again.
  - Wonderful. Well, Grom, you wouldn't mind helping me a little bit, right? Could you please tell me about the Empire's garrison in Blackwood? The numbers, the fortifications, the people in command. And while we're at it, are you maybe hungry? We have a bit to share.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
This is an attempt to manipulate him on two levels by appealing to some primal instincts besides the magical compulsion. Dunno if I have to roll anything. :)
 
Cygnia
Tommasia drew out what looked like to be a small piece of amethyst and clenched it in her fist.  With the battle ending so fast, it would be best to renew what little magic she possessed in case anything else happened.

Then she went over to help Cur with the corpses.
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia took a step back, and sighed to herself. So this was how it was going to be. Two different interrogations were starting up - her sister was leading one of them, and the other was performed with Evindal's softer manner. In all likelihood there would be some loose ends running around when this was done. She could only hope that the consequences of that wouldn't catch up to them too quickly. She did some quick calculations, and decided that they'd likely still have a few days to wrap things up without interference. The white haired woman fumed internally a bit more about the situation, but in the mean time she got to work moving the corpses. She tore a cape from one of the soldiers and used it to grab and drag the bodies towards the hole that cur was preparing. She wasn't about to start digging herself, however. So when the dead were in place, she tossed the cape on the pile and walked back over to the cart. She leaned back against it and watched the questioners work, with folded arms and a displeased face. Somehow, the remaining soldiers seemed quite willing to talk. That at least was promising.
BelGareth
Cervena's Inquiry:
Grom's hand traced the perimeter of the camp in the dirt, outlining its square shape with rows of tents. He explained that it was organized like a typical military encampment, with designated areas for various functions. Alongside the soldiers' quarters, there were guard rotations, dirt wall ramparts, and watchtowers providing defenses. In addition to the hobgoblin soldiers, there were other individuals within the camp, like traders, smithies, and even some less reputable characters, though Grom wasn't entirely sure what to make of them. It all seemed quite different from what he was used to.

Evindal's Inquiry:
With a warm smile, Grom began sharing information about the Empire's garrison in Blackwood. The camp housed approximately 900 soldiers in total. He described the layout, emphasizing its resemblance to a standard military camp, complete with square formations and orderly rows of tents. Guard rotations were meticulously maintained, with dirt wall ramparts guarding the perimeter and watchtowers providing elevated vantage points.

As for the Centurion, Grom provided a detailed description. The Centurion was a commanding figure, known for his distinct appearance. Tall and imposing, he had dark, cruel eyes that seemed to pierce through anyone who met his gaze. His skin was a sickly shade of grayish-green, and his voice had a sinister, almost hypnotic quality to it.
Cygnia
The way their charmed prisoner described their target had Tommasia wondering if this particular hobgoblin had something special in his heritage.  Not to say that a hobgoblin was incapable of such charisma on his own talents -- but having a "boost" in his bloodline (be it demonic, diabolic, draconic or something else entirely) might explain a lot.

   "Does this centurion have a name?"   
Auranghzeb
 Cervena 


Cervena tried to memorize the map, delving into her psyche to keep the tracing and the information. Then she looked at the hob-goblin.


 I make my word good, you choose to live. And I choose the risk of letting you live. Look me in the eye. Once we are ready, you are going to start running down the road in the opposite direction of your camp. I won't harm you, but my sister will. I'm a knife, not catapult. I'll be clean. Nod if you understand. 

She tried to read into the prisioner's soul.

Then she dragged the hobgoblin back with the others, who were digging shallow graves.

 Time is of the essence. If you want to play graveyard diggers, it's your thing. We need to be swift. I'm bolting ahead. Our friend here has been useful. 

And leaving the prisoner there she bolted back into the woods, towards camp.
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia was still relaxing by the carriage when Cervena returned, dragging the hobgoblin she'd spared in tow. The paladin looked spotless, even pleasant, despite all that had happened. It seemed that she had regained some of her cocky cheerfulness now that things were winding down.

  "We won't be far behind, I expect,"   she replied.   "Our work here is nearly through."   And with that, she bid her sister farewell. Endymia was silently happy once that woman was out of sight. She just knew that her every move would be checked and hounded while Cervena was near. But then again, maybe she wasn't that bad.   'She did, after all, leave these soldiers to my itching fangs.'   It was an amusing thought, but she didn't expect to act on it. In truth she was eager to put distance between herself and this scene - and hopefully the responsibility for it, too. The sooner she made it to Blackwood, the sooner she could return to the good company and the social invulnerability she'd left at home.
LairdMaon
The task of handling the burial of those unfortunate and ill-fated soldiers complete, Cur turns back to his cohort.  "Have we learned anything useful? We shouldn't stay here too long. As it is, we'll need some way to explain how we got past this group to get to our target. Come to think of it, this couldn't have been a regular patrol, too large a force. What were they sent out for?" 
BelGareth
Grom responded to Tommasia's question  "Centurion Malgarius"  before being dragged off to the others, he numbly nods to the directions, and looks around as if he doesn't believe he will survive even if told so by Cervena.

With the prisoners digging their own graves, and Cervena heading out.

 What do you? 
 
 Spoiler 

Great time to wrap this up, didn't want to god-mod you guys, so feel free to just move on, and i can wrap it up, or do whatever.
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia did consider finishing off the soldiers, maiming them, and a number of other cruel alternatives. But in the end she decided that the moment had passed. It was time to go, and dirtying herself with blood and grave dust didn't sound like a particularly good time. If those hobgoblins did send danger after them, it would at least provide her an opportunity to tell Cervena 'I told you so.' So when everyone was ready, she gave the captive soldiers a hard pat on the back, sending them on their way.

  "Well boys, you've been spared for today. Don't make us regret it - I couldn't forget such  pretty  faces. Go on now. And don't let me see you turn back."   Then she continued on towards Blackwood with the party.
Ilerien
Evindal nodded as Grom spilled the beans on the Blackwood commander.
  - Thank you, Grom, it was very nice of you to share. Now, imagine returning with news like this, you might get in trouble with your superiors. And we don't want you and your buddy over there punished, right?   - the elf smiled reassuringly and pointed at the cart. -   Come with me, please. Also, would you be so kind as to tell me was your patrol a regular one, or were your sent on some specific mission?  

While Grom was answering, Evindal rummaged in the cart for several moments, produced a burlap sack and several coins and handed everything to him.
  - This would be enough to get by for several days. You both have to disappear for some time just to be extra safe, don't you agree? May I rely on you to do exactly this?   - he asked, looking into the charmed hobgoblin's eyes.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
That would be 4 trail rations and 10 GP. Evindal has faint hope that playing a good cop tips the scales, so they won't be inclined to return even when the spell wears off.
 
BelGareth
Grom nods numbly  "No, no, we wouldn't want that"  he mumbled listening to the veiled threats, and not so veiled threats from the different members of the ragtag team.  "um, this was a regular patrol...my first one..."  he trails off, almost about to cry, but then looks you in face and a smile forces itself over his face, there was a slight terror in his eyes as it did so.

The remaining hostages all nod silently, and take what is given to them, and as you move off, they gather the cart, and head off in the opposite direction.

You all head off into the dense foliage of the forest, away from the paths, and the used tracks of carts and the like. With Cervena in the lead it was easy to move, and she only once or twice came back to the group to hold position, but both times were only due to a wild animal passing, and within moments you are back to moving again, in some places the foliage is so thick and heavy you are forced to cut through the barbs of wild raspberry bushes, and you only manage to disturb one nest of badgers who hiss and snark at you without fear.

The weather was fair a high summer's sun, hot enough that the perpetual shade of the forest began to make you cold, especially as the sun began to dip into the horizon.

It was then that Cervana, eternally in the lead found a site, and relayed it back to the group:

You come across a serene forest clearing. In the center stands an enormous and ancient treant, its bark bearing the scars of battle. The treant seems remarkably calm, sitting amidst the clearing and cradling a lifeless hobgoblin in its massive, gnarled arms. A circle of ethereal will-o'-wisps hovers around the treant, their soft, ghostly light illuminating the scene.

 

However, as your group approaches, it becomes clear that this isn't a peaceful tableau. Strewn around the base of the treant are the broken, lifeless bodies of hobgoblins and ogres. They bear the signs of a violent conflict, with severed limbs and crushed armor. The treant's eyes glow with an eerie intensity, a combination of sorrow and determination.
Ilerien
The wizard listened to Cervena's report intently.

  - Curious. My Sylvan is likely rusty out of disuse, but treants usually speak some more common languages. I'll ask it what happened. The potential opportunity to gather more intelligence is worth a little delay. We should refrain from any actions it may perceive as a threat to itself or to the forest. I would imagine it's inwardly restless after the battle,   - he said and started towards the clearing, expecting the others to follow suit.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Knowledge (nature) check to recall knowledge about treants: 17 (rolled in Discord).
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena

Staying close to the wizard, Cervena approaches the Treant sheathing her weapons and adopting a non threatening stance all the while glancing to the sides for any possible threat.
BelGareth
As you cautiously approach the treant, its towering form dominating the clearing, it remains eerily silent. Oakthorn's massive frame is a testament to centuries of existence, and its bark bears the scars of countless battles. Its eyes, deep and ancient, regard your party with a raised eyebrow—a gaze that seems to weigh your intentions.

After a pregnant pause, Oakthorn's deep, rumbling voice finally breaks the silence.  "I am Oakthorn,"  it says, its voice carrying the weight of age and wisdom.  "I once dwelled in a grove nearby, but I have been driven from it by marauding ogres and their hobgoblin allies. They seek to despoil my grove, and I have defended it as best as I can. But I am weary, and they are relentless." 

With a mournful gasp that seems to emanate from the very core of its being, the treant holds up the lifeless hobgoblin, its immense fingers cradling the fallen foe.  "I bear no love for violence, but they have left me no choice."  he looks at you all with a meaningful look  "What are you to choose little ones? violence with old Okathorn?"  he stumbles over his words  "ARE YOU LITTLE OGRELETTES?"  he suddenly yells, as if the mere memory is enough to rile him up.

As Oakthorn speaks, its gaze shifts toward a dense thicket at the edge of the clearing, indicating the path that leads to its besieged grove.
Ilerien
  Now that's loud.  

Evindal stopped and looked upwards at the towering treant, then bowed in respect.
  - Greetings, esteemed Oakthorn, may your forest prosper and be safe from those who wish harm upon it,   - he said in Sylvan, switching to Common to continue so everyone would be able to understand. -   I assure you we are no allies to these despoilers, may their remains serve as nourishment to the trees. Quite the opposite, actually.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Here's a diplomacy check in case the situation calls for it:  (1d20+13)[ 17 ] 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The white-haired paladin approached Oakthorn with the group, remaining at ease to all appearances. She was ready to fight this creature if the need arose, but that really didn't seem necessary. In fact, the treant seemed a natural ally at the moment. And Endymia had never seen something quite like this tree-like being. It was large and powerful and ancient; she respected it at once. The knight flinched in surprise when it began to speak in its resounding voice. What a marvel! To its question, she replied   "Far from it. These brutes were no friends of ours,"   agreeing with Evindal.   "We've only passed so far from the road due to harassment from their kin."

"In fact, if my companions agree to it, I'd be inclined to see the state of the grove beyond. I can't make any promises until I know more, but we may be able to help drive off the intruders."  
BelGareth
Oakthorn's ancient voice rumbles in response to the party's assurances:

 "Your words bring solace to this weary heart,"  Oakthorn acknowledges with a deep, rumbling sigh that seems to resonate through its very form.  "To know that not all beings walk the path of darkness in these troubled times is a glimmer of hope amidst the encroaching shadows."
 
The treant nods in agreement as Evindal and Endymia speak of their intentions, and its gaze softens with gratitude.

 "Your willingness to aid me in my time of need speaks volumes,"  Oakthorn continues,  "If you choose to venture into my grove and drive out these intruders, I shall be in your debt. But know this, noble souls, my grove holds secrets and ancient guardians. Tread carefully, for the trials within may be as treacherous as the foes you face." 

With a final, resolute nod, Oakthorn extends one of its colossal branches, gesturing towards the dense thicket that leads to the grove.  "I am too weary, and shall stay here with my friends for company, my roots seem to like this ground, maybe I will stay here for a longer time" 

As you stand in the clearing with Oakthorn, you can't help but notice the ethereal dance of pale, flickering lights that surround the treant. Six will-o'-wisps, small, glowing orbs of ghostly light, hover in close proximity to Oakthorn's massive form. Their eerie radiance casts an otherworldly glow upon the treant's bark, creating a mesmerizing and surreal spectacle.

The will-o'-wisps emit a soft, melodic hum, their haunting harmonies intertwining with the rumbling timbre of Oakthorn's voice. Their movements are graceful yet erratic, resembling a spectral ballet. Despite their mesmerizing beauty, there's an undeniable air of danger about them.

These mystical entities appear to be in harmony with Oakthorn, almost as if they are guardians or companions, and their presence adds an aura of enigma to the ancient treant. They occasionally dart and weave among the party members, their luminescent forms casting eerie, shifting shadows on the forest floor.

As you watch the mesmerizing display of the will-o'-wisps, it becomes clear that they are not just ethereal lights but sentient beings, and their connection to Oakthorn is an integral part of the grove's mysterious ambiance.
LairdMaon
The treant's story triggers an involuntary reaction in Cur. His metallic hackles rise and the various plates of steel that make up his epidermis readjust to look like he's puffing himself up. He says nothing verbally, but his stance speaks of oncoming violence.
Cygnia
  "Hobgoblins allying with ogres -- that's never good news to hear in any circumstance."   Tommasia said with a grimace.  Blackwood was their objective, but gaining this treant as an ally might be worth the detour though -- not to mention disrupting any burgeoning alliance between the hobs and ogres.
Ilerien
  So these ancient guardians are useless against hobgoblins and ogres, but they still persist to put us through some sort of trials? Peculiar.
Hmm. I wonder what these wisps are doing here and what's their connection to Oakthorn. I would have loved to try cracking this mystery instead of playing an assassin for the Crown.  
  - Quite worrying news indeed,   - the mage agreed, looking at the will-o'-wisps dancing around the treant and trying to see patterns in their movements.   - We have some time to spare, though not much, to try and investigate it. With your blessing, mighty Oakthorn, we shall proceed into your grove and see if we're able to discourage those unwelcome creatures from setting foot in it,   - he addressed the treant and slowly started towards the thicket.
Olive_Sophia
 

The treant expressed his thankfulness that they 'did not walk the path of darkness' - that was definitely saying too much in Endymia's case, because sin was a passion for her. But she didn't feel like correcting him in that moment. On a bad day, she might burn the grove down herself out of pure caprice. But just then she was more interested in spilling hobgoblin blood. She did take note of the will-o'-wisps that illuminated their close surroundings. Endymia was actually quite familiar with spirits and the like, so they were less amazing to her than the massive natural wonder that was Oakthorn himself. But their presence did elevate the sense of danger that his last words had evoked. His 'warning' about the trials was almost a threat. It felt like a bad omen to Endymia. But she assumed that if hobgoblins and ogres had made their way through, they too would have a great chance of success. Still, it might be worth hedging their bets.

As she approached the thicket, planning to head into the grove, she turned back one last time to the treant.   "We're off then. Rest easy, Oakthorn. But before we go, is there any advice you would offer us concerning these trials? I'm sure you know much about them. We would aid you, so help us help you - if you can."  
Auranghzeb
 Cervena 
She couldn't believe her ears! Her sister was actually acting kindly, the performative kindness of their father, but nonetheless.

As the will'O'wisp descended on the treant, Cervena grew nervous, she knew these creatures to be evil, feasting on the life force of creatures, she looked at them with deep mistrust and her nosetrils flared as those of an animal, trying to discern the will'o wisps scent from her sister's stench of evil.


  Th hobgoblins seem to be taking strides to secure all lands in the surroundings.  
BelGareth
As your party follows Oakthorn into the dense thicket, you step into the heart of the ancient grove. The atmosphere here is markedly different from the world outside. The air is thick with the scent of age-old trees, and the forest seems to breathe with a life of its own.

The path you tread upon is overgrown with lush, vibrant vegetation, and the soft glow of the will-o'-wisps illuminates your way. Their eerie, ethereal light dances among the leaves, casting strange and shifting shadows that play tricks on your eyes.

As you venture deeper into the grove, your senses are assaulted by the sound of muffled cries and agonized moans. Following the source of these disturbing sounds, you come upon a scene that chills your very souls.

A group of ogres, hulking and brutish, surrounds a massive oak tree. At its base, a dryad, a being of the forest, is ensnared in twisted vines and dark, thorny tendrils that writhe and pulse with malevolent energy. Her once-beautiful form is contorted in pain, her features etched with torment.

The ogres, their brutish laughter echoing through the grove, seem to be reveling in the dryad's suffering. They prod her with crude weapons, and their monstrous faces contort with sadistic glee as she pleads for mercy.

This horrific sight is not the only disturbing element in the grove. As you scan the area, you catch glimpses of shadowy figures lurking in the underbrush—creatures that seem to be nothing more than tendrils of darkness given form. Their presence sends shivers down your spine, and you can't help but feel that they are connected to a deeper, more insidious force.

Oakthorn, moved by the plight of his friend, the dryad, takes a step forward, his immense form lumbering toward the captive creature. However, something is amiss. As Oakthorn attempts to move more swiftly, the very forest itself seems to hinder his progress. The once-thriving vegetation now acts as if turned against him, slowing him down and obstructing his path.

His ancient voice rumbles with anger and sorrow.  "This is the desecration that has befallen my grove,"  he says, his gaze fixed on the tortured dryad.  "These foul ogres and their malevolent masters have brought darkness and suffering to this sacred place. We must put an end to their cruelty and drive them from this land."
 
The choice before you is clear—to confront the ogres and dark creatures and put an end to the torment, all while protecting Oakthorn, or to turn away from this nightmarish scene and abandon the grove to its fate.

 
 Spoiler 

Roll Init
 Map 
 
Ilerien
The elven mage, his expression grim and determined, spat a word turning his right wrist in a sharp gesture and immediately started intoning another incantation. His left hand moved with inhuman swiftness and precision, while the other one retrieved a piece of licorice root from the pouch on his belt. As the root turned to dust a moment later, Evindal's companions felt the surge of energy flowing through their muscles and tendons imbuing them with supernatural speed and mobility.
  - Battle it is then. This boon should mitigate your predicament somewhat,   - the elf nodded to Oakthorn and quickly darted behind a large boulder. He harboured no illusions regarding his ability to withstand an ogre's club to the face.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Initiative roll: 27 (rolled in discord).
Immediate action right before the combat starts:  nerveskitter  on himself, +5 to initiative.
Standard action:  haste  on the entire party including Oakthorn (duration is 9 rounds). In case someone rolls better and charges into the fray I'll edit the post.
Move action: run to AF4 and take cover.
As usual, if something targets him, he'll use his  abrupt jaunt .
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  49/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft
 AC  23,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  18 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +3 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +9 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +9 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   greater mage armor ,  haste 
 
Cygnia
Tommasia glowered at the number of enemies facing them. Charging in would be a fool's errand even against one ogre.  No, she had to play this smart, especially with this eerie terrain surrounding them.  Thankfully, she had already refreshed her spell energy from the earlier battle against the hobgoblins.  Maybe now it would actually see some play -- that is, if she was unfortunate enough to get hit.

More importantly, as she drew out her greatsword, she activated her "insurance" hiding in its hilt. Jinx stood by her side patiently.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Initiative: 19 (rolled in Discord)
Swift: Cast  Karmic Aura 
Standard: Activate  Bull's Strength  from the Eternal Wand in her greatsword's wand chamber
Move: AD8 (put Jinx at AE8)
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30
 AC  21,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  15,  Ref  11,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +15/+10 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +11/+6 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural, +1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)

Haste (9 rounds from Evindal): When making a full attack action, a hasted creature may make one extra attack with any weapon he is holding. The attack is made using the creature's full base attack bonus, plus any modifiers appropriate to the situation. (This effect is not cumulative with similar effects, such as that provided by a weapon of speed, nor does it actually grant an extra action, so you can't use it to cast a second spell or otherwise take an extra action in the round).

A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves. Any condition that makes you lose your Dexterity bonus to Armor Class (if any) also makes you lose dodge bonuses.

Karmic Aura (8 rounds): While this spell is in effect, any creature within range that deals damage to you with an attack, spell, or other effect becomes fatigued for 3 rounds. A successful Will save indicates that the attacker is unaffected and immune to the spell's effect until the start of your next turn, but must save again if he damages you after that point. An attacker already fatigued suffers no additional effect from this spell.

Bull's Strength (3 minutes):  +4 enhancement bonus to Strength
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena

She didn't even have to smell the air. Thes ogres were evil and she was going to stop them. Boosted by Evindal, Cervena acted instinctively, running toward the Ogres with the sole purpose of protecting the Dryad. She hustled through the battlefield and took a gamble sending a wave of psychic energy that warped time and space around the Dryad!

    Don't resist! I'll send you to a safe place    
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Swift: Manifest Hustle 5pp for extra move action
Move 70' (40 normal + 30 from Haste)
Standard: Manifest Time Hop on the Dryad Will DC 17 for the Dryad or Hop 9 rounds into the future!
Extra Move from Hustle Levitate 40' upwards

 
Olive_Sophia
 

As they progressed into the grove, Endymia eyed her new surroundings with wary interest. This place felt thick with natural magic of a kind she had little experience with. But the corruption too was quite obvious. Tearing out the infection from this place would evidently take more than a few cracked skulls. Further ahead was the scene of the dryad's torment. The agony and the desperation in her voice was heartbreaking. The paladin was not entirely unfamiliar with futile cries of mercy, but that didn't mean she endorsed all forms of torture wholesale. The sight of the helpless woman being brutalized by gleeful, monstrous creatures aroused disgust even in her.   "Tch."   Her displeased vocalization was matched by the cold look in her eyes.

Endymia grabbed her finely crafted halberd and took a few steps closer to the large group of ogres.   "Hey! You nasty lot!- You won't be able to play with that toy of yours anymore!"   she called out at them in a taunting voice. Then she raised her weapon and began whirling it around in her gauntleted hands, spinning the polearm in front of her, above her, and beside her in a fluid continuation of movement. When the spinning stopped she quickly smeared a prepared pack of poison along its gleaming blade with one practiced motion. Then she thrust the weapon out in front of her again, brandishing it brazenly and inviting open combat. The white-haired woman had a natural instinct for fighting, and she was also a highly skilled knight. She was quite confident that, despite their size, these uncivilized freaks would be no match for her.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

  Actions:  
 Swift Action:  Apply a dose of fang poison to her halberd. (Master of Poisons)
 Standard Action:   Ready an action  to set her halberd against an incoming charge. Meaning that if she is charged, she will attack the incoming creature first for double damage.
Assuming that the readied action does trigger she will
 Free Action:  Activate Divine Might at the same time.


Here are calculations for the attack so that you can go ahead and resolve a charge on Endymia in your next post if that happens:

Attack Roll (PA for 3):  (1d20+12)[ 16 ] 
Damage Roll:  (1d8+16)[ 17 ] 
Doubled to:  34 
On a hit, the attacker also needs to make a DC 17 Fort save or take 1d6( 5 ) initial constitution damage from her poison (and the appropriate hp damage due to their lowered con score).

  STAT BLOCK  
   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  19,  Touch  11,  Flat-footed  19,  Fort  14,  Ref  9,  Will  9,  Base Attack Bonus  9
   +1 Halberd   +15 (1d8 + 4, x3)
 Poison Bite, Secondary   +9 (1d8 + 1, x2)
   Masterwork Full Plate  (+8 Armor)
 Abilities  Str 16, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 20
 Condition  None
 
LairdMaon
Cur bursts into the clearing, roaring. The warforged changes form and grows large once again, steel screeching against steel and stone as the spikes on his chain drag across his shifting carapace. The chain whirls about his body in three hands as he points directly at the lead ogre.

 
 Spoiler: ooc 

Moving to T12 and shifting to primeval form.
 
BelGareth
  Round 1  
 Initiative 
Evindal - 27
Cervena - 22
Tommasia - 19
Endymia - 16
Oakthorn - 10
Ogres - 9
Cur - ?

Evindal casts haste upon the whole party, while Cervena runs right up to the ogres attempting to yell at the dryad not to resist his power, unfortunately, she couldn’t hear him and resisted!

Tommasia prepares for combat, so does Endymia, while Cur and Oakthorn stride forward.

The Ogres all seem to realize they are being interrupted at the same time, looking over their shoulders with looks of annoyance and bestial anger. Orders seem to be barked out from behind, and the Ogre's move in unison, as if they...are a drilled unit. Several break off to face the right flank in an echelon formation, while more break off to setup the center, while even more break off to deal with the lone wolf, all the while several keep at what they were doing...

The Ogre's who move towards Cervena who all ready their crude weapons, trying to gut, hook, slash and otherwise maim her if the opportunity presents itself.

 
 Spoiler 

Readied attacks if Cervena comes within reach
All vs Cervena:
  Ogre 10  - (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 21 ] 
  Ogre 11  - (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 10 ] 
  Ogre 12  - (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Ogre 16  - (1d20+11)[ 13 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 14 ] 

NOTES: Ogres are Evil for any effects that depend on that.

We can go into block now, so you are all up.

 Map 
 
Ilerien
Evindal made a small step as if planting his foot on the first tread of an invisible stairway and disappeared momentarily, emerging on top of the rock formation. He scanned the grove briefly from this vantage point noting the positions of his allies and the invaders. Cervena was being surrounded by ogres, but they had trouble reaching her levitating silhouette, so she would likely be able to deal with them.
  Oakthorn likely won't take kindly to a fireball detonating within his precious grove.  
The next item Evindal took out of his pouch turned out to be a brown and white owl feather. He uttered a swift incantation accompanied with a series of gestures finishing with a wide motion not unlike a bird unfurling its wing, then started ascending steadily at an angle. The elf had to maneuver carefully: the branches were dense enough to ruin his outfit and give him more than a couple of bruises if he moved faster.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Swift action :  abrupt jaunt  10 ft straight up (6 uses left).
 Standard action : cast  fly  on himself, duration is 9 minutes.
 Move action : move diagonally (I assume cubic root of 3 is close enough to 1.5 to use the same rules of diagonal movement as with 2 dimensions) to AC7. His altitude is 40 ft.
As usual, if something targets him, he'll use his  abrupt jaunt .
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  49/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft, fly 90 ft (good)
 AC  23,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  18 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +3 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +9 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +9 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   greater mage armor ,  haste ,  fly 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia frowned. The ogres were acting in a more organized fashion than she'd expected. None of them had directly responded to her challenge, and instead they were forming battle lines.   'Hmm... I guess I'll have to break into their formation. But with so many of them, I'll have to be careful.'   She glanced to the right and saw her sister dangling over a pack of ogres, who were taking turns swinging their cruel weapons up at her - not a great spot to be in.   'Don't make me save you just yet,'   she thought with amusement.   'Well, I'm sure you'll be fine for now.'   Her thoughts turned back towards preparing herself. She made an inaudible call to the dragon goddess, and divine power began to thrum through her muscles - enhancing her might enough to take on the oversized creatures.

Endymia broke into a run, keeping her head low, and she quickly approached one of the frontmost creatures. She tried to dodge its swing, and whirled her poisoned halberd about, though it was only a feint. In her other hand she gathered a dangerous and terrible energy. Its dense aura was a dark purple color - almost black. The power lazily swayed and licked like a sluggish fire. The white-haired woman wielded it without qualm, but this was pure negative energy, radically inimical to life. She reached out towards the stinking ogre; if her hand touched it, skin would wilt, hair would fall lose, organs would twist, and the soul itself would falter.


 
 Spoiler: OOC 

  Actions:  
 Swift Action:  Activate Strength Devotion (It doesn't cost turn attempts the first time per day)
 Move Action:  Move 60ft to just in front of Ogre 14. Pathing to only provoke 1 AOO from O14.
 Standard Action:  Attack the Ogre with Deadly Touch (fighting defensively for -4 to Attack, +2 AC until my next turn)  Current AC: 21 
 Touch Attack:   (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 

If that hits, the ogre will need to make a DC 19 Will save or take  42 damage.  A successful save reduces the damage to 21.


  STAT BLOCK  
   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  21,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  14,  Ref  9,  Will  9,  Base Attack Bonus  9
   +1 Halberd   +15 (1d8 + 4, x3)
 Poison Bite, Secondary   +9 (1d8 + 1, x2)
   Masterwork Full Plate  (+8 Armor)
 Abilities  Str 16, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 20
 Condition  hasted, fighting defensively
 
Auranghzeb
Having miscalculated these creatures range was bad enough, having her sister watch it was straight up embarrassing.

Cervena was hit twice. She wanted to retaliate, she moved down to their level, she wanted to be deadly, dropping from her levitation into the ground next to the ogres she switched to a stance that allowed her to leverage their size, and slash their hamstrings and ligaments.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Dramatic use of free action to fall next to one of the ogres.
Swift: adopt gyant killing style stance +4 damage +2 attack vs larger than me enemies
 Full atack  one of the ogres:
 (1d20+19)[ 20 ]   (1d4+15)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+19)[ 35 ]   (1d4+15)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20+14)[ 31 ]   (1d4+15)[ 16 ] 
Haste attack:
 (1d20+19)[ 39 ]   (1d4+15)[ 16 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Stats 
   Cervena   
f NG Human Ranger 2/Ardent 5/SoK2,  Level  9,  Init  11,  HP  66/66,  Speed  40/ Levitate at will
 AC  25,  Touch  16,  Flat-footed  22,  Fort  9,  Ref  8,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  7/2,  Power Points  39/43
 +1 Hunting / +1 kukri Old Kukris x2    +14 (+18 vs Evil, +22 vs Evil Arcanists) (1d4+7 (+11 vs Evil), 18-20 x2)
   A staff, any staff   +12 (+16 vs Evil) ( ,  )
   Force Armor  (+6 Armor, +2 Dex, +2 Deflect, +2 Natural, +2 Misc+1 Haste)
 Abilities  Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8
 Condition  None
 
Cygnia
   "Jinx, center."    Really, Tommasia didn't need to give her dark companion any orders, being merely an extension of her will.  But that faint childhood longing for an actual friend and pet who didn't want to reduce the shadowy beast to anything "mere" pushed at her.

But Tommasia moved as fast as she could to get into better range.  Jinx continued to run, seemingly heedless of the threat the ogres presented, to blithely position herself next to two of the ominously well-trained giantkin.

Meanwhile,  Tommasia drew out a pinch of ground mica from the pouch at her belt.  Spitting out the words of power, she tossed the mica towards the ogres.  And the powder seemed to move with an unnatural speed and distance towards their enemies...

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Since Tommasia is ahead in the initiative order, she should be able to get her spell off before Endymia gets in the way ;)

Tommasia moves to AC14
Jinx moves to AB20.  She does not count as flanking, but Ogres 14 +15 take a -2 penalty on their saves and to their AC.
Casting   Glitterdust   at a lvl8 caster (Will save DC16 or blinded), trying to get as many enemies as she can in its range.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30
 AC  21,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  15,  Ref  11,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +15/+10 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +11/+6 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural, +1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)

Haste (9 rounds from Evindal): When making a full attack action, a hasted creature may make one extra attack with any weapon he is holding. The attack is made using the creature's full base attack bonus, plus any modifiers appropriate to the situation. (This effect is not cumulative with similar effects, such as that provided by a weapon of speed, nor does it actually grant an extra action, so you can't use it to cast a second spell or otherwise take an extra action in the round).

A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves. Any condition that makes you lose your Dexterity bonus to Armor Class (if any) also makes you lose dodge bonuses.

Karmic Aura (8 rounds): While this spell is in effect, any creature within range that deals damage to you with an attack, spell, or other effect becomes fatigued for 3 rounds. A successful Will save indicates that the attacker is unaffected and immune to the spell's effect until the start of your next turn, but must save again if he damages you after that point. An attacker already fatigued suffers no additional effect from this spell.
 
BelGareth
Evindal moves through and around any obstacle they meet with a flash of spells and pure skill, he vanishes from most of everyones sight in quick work.

Tommasia orders Jinx to move in, who seems to slink through the terrain itself, and just appeared near the two ogres ahead of them, while Tommasia summons a cloud of glittering light which envelopes the two ogres, as well as Jinx, Jinx shmmers for a moment, and you can see a regal mastif, but with a simple shiver, the flecks fall off, down to the ground as if Jinx wasn't real, the ogres rub their eyes suddenly, but both manage to wipe the most of it away, now you have two shimmering angry ogres staring back at you!

Endymia rushes forward brazenly, causing a single Ogre to get the advantage on her while she moved in closer to deliver a cruel magical blow to it. The Ogre manages to take better advantage of the moment than she had hoped, and smacks her in the side, crunching armor, cartilage, skin, and bone alike  [hit for 16 bludgeoning damage] . However, after taking the brutal hit, her hand barely touches it in return, and the Ogre instantly screams as it's back arches backwards in an ungodly angle, raw energy starts to spark out of it's eyes and it bursts with a gory *pop*, which covers Endymia entirely.

While this is all happening, Cervena drops down onto her attackers with a sudden mental release of her power, with a gasp, they all swing out to hit her like a Mid-summer Pinata. She get's knocked by two wicked clubs with nails that tore at her skin  [hit for 12 and 14 bludgeoning damage] . Once down however, she turns up the heat, and slices up one of the same Ogres who hit her, her first strike gets stuck in the beasts hide, so she is forced to use one, but manages to sever it's hamstring, bringing it down to eye level, where she calming placed the other one, right at eye level. Blood spurted out all over Cervena, while the other ogres all looked on in shock.

  Round 2  
 Initiative 
PC's - 20
Ogres - 10

The ogres while wide eyed from their allies deaths, don't seem to react like you recall ogres to act like, they start to rotate, taking small steps to surround you, others move to fill ranks from their fallen, and continue to press the attack on those near them while Oakthorn trudges forward and gets within range of one ogre ready for his wroth.

 
 Spoiler 

4 Vs Cervena:
  Ogre 3  - (1d20+9)[ 24 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 17 ] 
  Ogre 10  - (1d20+9)[ 15 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 17 ] 
  Ogre 11  - (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 11 ] 
  Ogre 16  - (1d20+9)[ 28 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 19 ] 

3 vs Endymia
  Ogre 15  - (1d20+9)[ 17 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 16 ] 
  Ogre 8  - (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 19 ] 
  Ogre 9  - (1d20+9)[ 16 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 19 ] 
 Map 
 
Auranghzeb
These ogres and their blunt weapons were a minor inconvenience. Big sloppy brutes despite any kind of training, the key was keeping the pressure, they'll break, no matter how big, they'll sulk, no matter how threatening, and they'll fall if kept on their heels.

Cervena stepped towards two of the ogres, slicing with clever determination and fending off the two beasts while keeping her deadly knives moving. She went to the one to her left first, trying to secure an opening for a tactical movement.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

5' step as part of FUll round action (already moved Cervena's token on the map, that should take me off Ogre 16 and 3 reach)
 Full round action : Fighting defensively full attack vs Ogre 11

Giant-killing style offsets the two-weapon fighting penalty, and then I take a -4 penalty from Fighting Defensively.
First knife  (1d20+15)[ 17 ]  damage  (1d4+15)[ 19 ]   This is fine 
Second Knife [roll[1d20+15[/roll] damage  (1d4+15)[ 16 ]   this is a 19 
First Knife second attack [roll[1d20+10[/roll] damage  (1d4+15)[ 17 ]    this is a 22 
Haste Attack [roll[1d20+15[/roll] damage  (1d4+15)[ 18 ]   this is an 18 

If I drop Ogre 11 apply any remaining attacks to Ogre 10

 Swift Action  Manifest Hustle to move Half my speed (currently 70 so 35') to E 25 OR I 19 depending on whether I dropped Ogre 11, if by any dumb luck I drop both Ogre 11 and 10, then move full speed to behind the rock.
 tumble check in Discord was a 22  
 

 
 Spoiler: STATS 
f NG Human Ranger 2/Ardent 5/SoK2, Level 9, Init 11,  HP 30/66,  Speed 40/ Levitate at will
AC 27, Touch 16, Flat-footed 22, Fort 9, Ref 8, Will 13, Base Attack Bonus 7/2, Power Points 39/43
+1 Hunting / +1 kukri Old Kukris x2 +14 (+18 vs Evil, +22 vs Evil Arcanists) (1d4+7 (+11 vs Evil), 18-20 x2)

Force Armor (+6 Armor, +2 Dex, +2 Deflect, +2 Natural, +2 Misc +1 Haste +2 Dodge)
Abilities Str 21, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8
Condition None
 
Ilerien
Even with all the branches obstructing his vision somewhat Evindal saw Cervena and Endymia take some heavy hits. Another ogre was approaching from the left flank, but he was far enough at the moment. Tommasia covered a couple of ogres with sparkles which had been a nice small step towards restoration of the presumably eerie atmosphere of this grove. Not to mention a completely viable tactical move. Shame they're  apparently able to wipe it from their eyes...

  Now let's add even more sparkles.  
The mage pulled out a tiny pouch and let a handful of fine powder fall into his hand. This one required his utmost concentration and then some skill to pull off successfully. Conforming to the gestures and the words of the wizard levitating and drifting slowly towards the ogres, the fine pieces of mica split into four vaguely outlined projectiles that accelerated over the field of battle - two of them towards Cervena, two others towards Endymia - and exploded, showering the ogres with glitter.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Full-round action : spontaneously sculpt  glitterdust  (4 10-ft cubes: O19:P20, O23:P24, W20:X21, Z20:AA21. Ogres 3, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 16 should be affected, 8 and 15 get -2 to their saves because of Jinx) using augmented casting (4 of 5 uses remain) and sacrificing a prepared  grease . Blindness for 10 rounds, reflex DC 20.
Also, 5-ft step to AC8.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  49/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft, fly 90 ft (good)
 AC  23,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  18 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +3 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +9 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +9 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   greater mage armor ,  haste ,  fly 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The first ogre's blood splashed all over the young knight, and his body collapsed into a useless heap in front of her. But the others still stood around her, armed. She had taken a fairly sound blow on the way in - enough to knock her hair down, even. But she was an experienced fighter, and she didn't show the pain. She simply looked towards the next monstrous figure with a fierce coldness in her eyes. She took a step forward and delivered a strong downward slash, and then another horizontal slice. Next she leapt up and slammed her elbow into the creature's head with divinely augmented strength. Endymia was acting beyond normal human capacities now - each blow was designed to devastate, not merely to wound. The paladin landed and reoriented herself to keep fighting. She expertly applied another dose of poison to her weapon while she looked for a weak point, and then she threw herself into the fray again! First a mighty stab, and then she drew herself close and tried to bite the creature with her vicious fangs.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

  Actions:  
5-foot step towards the Ogres.
Free Action: Activate Divine Might (7/8 Turn Attempts remaining)
Full-round Action: She will full attack her enemies with each attack available to her. If she downs the first target [O15], she will direct the rest of the attacks at O8.
Swift Action: She will apply another dose of fang poison to her halberd before the extra attack gained from Haste. (Master of Poisons)

Quick reminder that Endymia's targets take a  -2 to AC from Jinx.  And if blinded by Evindal, they suffer an  additional -2 to AC from Blindness 

Attacks in this order (as described above). Power attacking for 2.

 Halberd 1 Attack Roll:   (1d20+13)[ 21 ] 
 Halberd 1 Damage Roll:   (1d8+14)[ 15 ] 
 Poison:  Make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 4 ]  Con damage (and the appropriate HP damage from Con loss). Fail or not, the save must be repeated in 1 minute or the target will suffer the same effect again. If this attack misses, apply the poison to the next hit instead.

 Halberd 2 Attack Roll:   (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
 Halberd 2 Damage Roll:   (1d8+14)[ 16 ] 
 Slam Attack Roll:   (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
 Slam Damage Roll:   (1d8+8)[ 11 ] 
 Bite Attack Roll:   (1d20+7)[ 24 ] 
 Bite Damage Roll:   (1d8+10)[ 13 ] 
 Poison:  Make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 5 ]  Con damage (and the appropriate HP damage from Con loss). Fail or not, the save must be repeated in 1 minute or the target will suffer the same effect again.

 Halberd 3 Attack Roll:   (1d20+13)[ 19 ] 
 Halberd 3 Damage Roll:   (1d8+14)[ 17 ] 
 Poison:  Make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 1 ]  Con damage (and the appropriate HP damage from Con loss). Fail or not, the save must be repeated in 1 minute or the target will suffer the same effect again. If this attack misses, apply the poison to the next hit instead.

 
 Spoiler: STAT BLOCK 

  STAT BLOCK  
   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  76/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  19,  Touch  11,  Flat-footed  19,  Fort  14,  Ref  9,  Will  9,  Base Attack Bonus  9
 Abilities  Str 16, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 20
 Condition  Hasted
 

 
Cygnia
After the ogres appeared to resist her  Glitterdust , an annoyed Tommasia weighed her options for targets. Prudently, it would probably be best to help Endymia winnow away the ogres nearly surrounding her.

    Just be smart for now...no need to throw yourself into a charge just yet. Still a lot of enemies.    

Sword raised, she stalked over towards one of the wounded ogres, hoping to finish off the beast.     "Are we looking to keep any alive for questioning?"    Tommasia said with a grunt.  Then she roared, greatsword slashing in heavy arcs.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Move to AC18.  That should grant her +2 flanking with Endy on O15.

Attack 1
 (1d20+17)[ 36 ] 
Dmg if hit
 (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 

Attack 2 (from Haste)
 (1d20+17)[ 36 ] 
Dmg if hit
 (2d6+7)[ 11 ] 

Dreadful Wrath (DC18)  is in play for all enemies within 20ft of Tommasia:
When you charge, make a full attack, or cast a spell that either targets an enemy or includes an enemy in its area, you gain the frightful presence ability for that round. Each enemy within a 20-foot radius of you must succeed on a Will save (DC 10 + 1/2 your character level + your Cha modifier) or be shaken for 1 minute. Regardless of its success or failure on the saving throw, any creature exposed to this effect is immune to your frightful presence for the next 24 hours. This is an extraordinary morale effect.

-2 to saves &amp; AC is in play against O15 &amp; O8
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  92/92,  Speed  30
 AC  21,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  15,  Ref  11,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +15/+10 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +11/+6 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural, +1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)

Haste (9 rounds from Evindal): When making a full attack action, a hasted creature may make one extra attack with any weapon he is holding. The attack is made using the creature's full base attack bonus, plus any modifiers appropriate to the situation. (This effect is not cumulative with similar effects, such as that provided by a weapon of speed, nor does it actually grant an extra action, so you can't use it to cast a second spell or otherwise take an extra action in the round).

A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves. Any condition that makes you lose your Dexterity bonus to Armor Class (if any) also makes you lose dodge bonuses.

Karmic Aura (8 rounds): While this spell is in effect, any creature within range that deals damage to you with an attack, spell, or other effect becomes fatigued for 3 rounds. A successful Will save indicates that the attacker is unaffected and immune to the spell's effect until the start of your next turn, but must save again if he damages you after that point. An attacker already fatigued suffers no additional effect from this spell.

Bull's Strength (3 minutes):  +4 enhancement bonus to Strength
 
Cygnia
OOC: BOTH attacks confirmed as a crit on Discord, so x2 that dmg to -52hp
LairdMaon
Cur stomps past the massive tree and flicks one head of the chain at an ogre. There's no subtlety to his movements, in fact his steel and stone clatter loudly with every motion.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 

Moving to R17, R18, S17, S18. Marked as such due to his Large size.

Attack 1 on Ogre16
To Hit:  (1d20+20)[ 35 ] 
To Hurt:  (1d8+28)[ 30 ] 
 
BelGareth
Evindal manages to succeed where his friend could not, covering a large swathe of the enemies with glittering dust that sparkled eerily in the dim light from the will-o-wisps. Cervena continues her whirling dervish-esque dance, and slices up the ogre she is focusing on with grim intensity, slashing open his belly with a final strike, eviscerating the poor thing, the viscera flops onto the ground with an audible *plop*, her fourth attack strikes true on the next ogre to receive her wroth.

Meanwhile, Endymia, her sister is trying to do the same with her own style, if not as effective, but still, she drops the ogre before her, who is blinded and distracted at once, she manages to thrust her halberd up and into the the chest cavity, it's eyes search frantically for something, but it finds nothing as it's lifeblood gushes away.

Cur wakes up, and is suddenly there, smashing an ogre almost the same size as they were!

Just as Tommasia, annoyed at their lack of impact from their spell, charges in like a wrecking ball, an avatar of fury and thunder. Heedless to danger, the ogre manages to get a swipe in but guessed wrong as it squinted through glittering eyelids.

  Round 3  
 Initiative 
PC's - 20
Ogres - 10

The ogres move with military precision, belying some kind of extra training, one steps up to the great treant, while another skirts around a tree to get into range of Tommasia!

But stranger yet, another in the back takes a step back towards the dryads, mutters something, and vanishes into a puff of smoke with the 3 ogres who were torturing the dryad, her whimpers are now sobs as she tries to collect herself.

 
 Spoiler 

3 and 10 vs Cervena
  Ogre 3  - (1d20+7)[ 16 ] 
  miss chance  - (1d100)[ 87 ]  (low is bad)
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 12 ] 
   Ogre 10  - (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
  miss chance  - (1d100)[ 5 ]  (low is bad)
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 17 ]  

7 vs Tommasia
  Ogre 7  - (1d20+9)[ 25 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 10 ] 

9 and 8 vs Endymia
   Ogre 9  - (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
  miss chance  - (1d100)[ 2 ]  (low is bad)
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 20 ]  
  Ogre 8  - (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
  miss chance  - (1d100)[ 77 ]  (low is bad)
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 16 ] 

13 vs Oakthorn
  Ogre 13  - (1d20+7)[ 13 ] 
  miss chance  - (1d100)[ 51 ]  (low is bad)
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 20 ] 

2 and 16 vs Cur
  Ogre 2  - (1d20+9)[ 12 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 18 ] 
  Ogre 16  - (1d20+9)[ 11 ] 
  Melee  - (2d8+7)[ 18 ] 
 Map 
 
LairdMaon
If a proper grin could be expressed on Cur's face, a grim one would adorn his carapace now that he has two ogres' attention. As they each miss him with their meager attacks, he responds by giving them each the same effort in return.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 

Attack 1, Ogre16
To Hit:  (1d20+20)[ 35 ] 
To Hurt:  (1d8+28)[ 36 ] 

Attack 2, Ogre2
To Hit:  (1d20+15)[ 31 ] 
To Hurt:  (1d8+28)[ 34 ] 
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena

 I wish everything was so simple and straight forward  She thinks as she dodges the blinded ogres' clumsy attacks  Like mowing grass 
She steps in between the to massive beasts, her lite figure almost invisible under their shadow. She works their tendons, targeting their femoral arteries with direct cuts.  Just focus on their evil stench, do not think of them as anything else...they are evil 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 


Right hand to hit Ogre 10  (1d20+18)[ 34 ]  crit on 18-20
Damage  (1d4+15)[ 18 ] 
Left hand To hit Ogre 3  (1d20+18)[ 26 ]  crit on 18-20
Damage  (1d4+15)[ 19 ] 
Right hand (spinning backstab on ogre femoral artery)
 (1d20+13)[ 29 ]  crit on 18-20
Damage  (1d4+15)[ 16 ] 
Haste attack vs any ogre standing  (1d20+18)[ 22 ] 
Damage (1d4+15)[ 19 ] 
 
Ilerien
The elf narrowed his eyes at the sight of the ogres disappearing. With Cur finally joining the battle, the present ogres were less of a threat to his companions than before. The disappeared ones bothered him, though. Gliding towards the others and maintaining his altitude, Evindal pulled a small vial of some powdered substance from the pouch on his belt, spoke the formula and rubbed the substance into his upper eyelids.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Standard action : cast  see invisibility  on self, duration is 100 minutes.
 Move action : move to AB12, altitude 40 ft.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  49/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft, fly 90 ft (good)
 AC  23,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  18 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  8,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +3 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +9 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +9 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   greater mage armor ,  haste ,  fly ,  see invisibility 
 
Cygnia
Tommasia hissed in pain as the new ogre struck her.  But then the hint of a grin spread across her face as she saw the fatigue take hold of her attacker.     "Striking me was your first mistake, hoss..."    The mercenary spat, twisting her body to fully face the sighted ogre.  She had to hope Endymia would be able to finish off the blind, already wounded one in the meantime.

   "...time to show you your next ones!"    The crystal on her greatsword seemed to glint with a life all its own, hungry for the enemy's blood as Tommasia brought it down in a series of heavy slashes.

 
 Spoiler: Action 

Full Attack on O7

Attack 1
 (1d20+17)[ 19 ] 

Dmg (if hit)
 (2d6+7)[ 14 ] 

Attack 2
 (1d20+12)[ 28 ] 

Dmg (if hit)
 (2d6+7)[ 15 ] 

Attack 3 (from Haste)
 (1d20+17)[ 26 ] 

Dmg (if hit)
 (2d6+7)[ 13 ] 

Each successful hit will heal Tommasia for 3 hp each due to Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal

O7 needs to save against Dreadful Wrath (DC18) since he's now in 20ft range of Tommasia if he hadn't earlier
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  82/92,  Speed  30
 AC  21,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  15,  Ref  11,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +15/+10 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +11/+6 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural, +1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)

Haste (8 rounds from Evindal): When making a full attack action, a hasted creature may make one extra attack with any weapon he is holding. The attack is made using the creature's full base attack bonus, plus any modifiers appropriate to the situation. (This effect is not cumulative with similar effects, such as that provided by a weapon of speed, nor does it actually grant an extra action, so you can't use it to cast a second spell or otherwise take an extra action in the round).

A hasted creature gains a +1 bonus on attack rolls and a +1 dodge bonus to AC and Reflex saves. Any condition that makes you lose your Dexterity bonus to Armor Class (if any) also makes you lose dodge bonuses.

Karmic Aura (7 rounds): While this spell is in effect, any creature within range that deals damage to you with an attack, spell, or other effect becomes fatigued for 3 rounds. A successful Will save indicates that the attacker is unaffected and immune to the spell's effect until the start of your next turn, but must save again if he damages you after that point. An attacker already fatigued suffers no additional effect from this spell.

Bull's Strength (3 minutes):  +4 enhancement bonus to Strength
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia jerked loose her halberd and let the ogre's already lifeless body fall to the ground. Darkened veins and reddish skin were apparent near the wound - even if he had lived, the poison ensured that it wouldn't have been for very long.

Thankfully Tommasia stepped up and joined her in the fray, displaying surprising aptitude with her large blade. The raven-haired woman asked if they should spare any of the monsters - prompting Endymia to quickly respond   "Hells no!- Tear them to pieces!"   The excitement and danger of the battle had woken her unreserved bloodlust, and when she saw Tommasia doing just as she bid, felling another of the large beasts - she gave her an approving nod and a fanged grin.

Now that the ogres just in front of her were blinded, their practiced movements slipped into wild and somewhat panicked swings. One massive blow slammed into Endymia from the right, but she caught the brunt of it with her plated arm, and deflected the crude sword with impressive strength. Then, with a lightning fast motion, she swiped another pre-prepared pouch of poison across her blade. Both hands back on her halberd, the tainted divine energy that had gathered around her surged once again- and she put everything into a vicious series of attacks against her now vulnerable opponents. The slashes of her weapon were composed and skillful, but they were mixed in with a bestial bite, and a heavy straight punch that looked like something from a bar fight.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

 Actions 
5 foot step to Z20
Free Action: Activate Divine Might (6/8 Turn attempts remaining)
Swift Action: Apply another dose of Fang poison to her halberd
Full-Round Action: Full Attack!

Endymia will start with O8, but if she manages to down him she will direct her remaining attacks at O9. O8 is currently at  -4 AC  (-2 from Jinx, -2 from Blindess).  O9 is at  -2 AC  from blindness.
Power Attacking for 4

 Halberd 1 Attack Roll:   (1d20+11)[ 16 ] 
 Halberd 1 Damage Roll:   (1d8+18)[ 21 ] 
 Poison:  Make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 6 ]  Con damage (and the appropriate HP damage from Con loss). Fail or not, the save must be repeated in 1 minute or the target will suffer the same effect again.  If this attack misses, apply the poison to the next hit instead. 
 Halberd 2 Attack Roll:   (1d20+6)[ 22 ] 
 Halberd 2 Damage Roll:   (1d8+18)[ 22 ] 
 Bite Attack Roll:   (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 Bite Damage Roll:   (1d8+12)[ 17 ] 
 Poison:  Make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 1 ]  Con damage (and the appropriate HP damage from Con loss). Fail or not, the save must be repeated in 1 minute or the target will suffer the same effect again.

 Slam Attack Roll:   (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 Slam Damage Roll:   (1d8+10)[ 18 ] 
 Halberd 3 Attack Roll:   (1d20+11)[ 25 ] 
 Halberd 3 Damage Roll:   (1d8+18)[ 25 ] 
 
 Spoiler: STAT BLOCK 

  STAT BLOCK  
   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  60/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  19,  Touch  11,  Flat-footed  19,  Fort  14,  Ref  9,  Will  9,  Base Attack Bonus  9
 Abilities  Str 16, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 20
 Condition  Hasted
 

 
BelGareth
You all seem to synchronize, as your battle rhythm falls into place, blades slicing, steel cutting, and piercing ogre flesh with what seems the ease of the Valkyries of a War god, whom if they were not watching, are now. Each and every one of you dispatches the ogres before you, and only a few remain. It doesn't take along to overwhelm them, and they die fighting to the last.

As the battle hum drops to a low quiet, you can hear Oakthorn muttering to himself,  'oh yes, oh yes, oh yes'  the strange will-o-wisps that danced around him causing strange shadows and shapes to dance across your periphery.

He moves forward to the Dryad who seems to have melded into the tree, he face a mask of pain and anguish.

Oakthorn reaches out a tender branched hand to his friend "Lirethwen....my friend...are you ok?" he asks as tender as a granny to her grand children, she nods gently  "I...I cannot Oakthorn!"  she sobs, and fades from view , he turns to regard you all.  "I thank you, I will take it from here, my friend....she needs time to recover, we are in your debt, please"  he gestures to the bushes around Lirethwen which have sprouted fruit of all kinds and varieties,  "take this to replenish your health, you may go as you came"  and he turns around to tend to the great tree.

 
 Spoiler 

Nicely done!

Eating some fruit grants  Heroe's Feast  for 24 hours.

Everyone is exhausted for 10 minutes.
Everyone attempt a Fort save DC 17 or vomit from all the flesh, viscera and the bloody battlefield in general.
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena takes a moment to contemplate the dead ogres and her blood covered companions. They were truly a grim company: not a day together and already two slaughters. Not the most subtle way.

  Oakthorn, there are more threats, those ogres who disappeared. What were they? How can we protect the woods and help you?  

She scans the land around the Dryad's groove trying to find answers about these ogres and the way they came in.

 
 Spoiler: Survival check 
 (1d20+14)[ 20 ] 
 
BelGareth
Oakthorn turns back to regard Cervena, a low rumbling harumph from him seems to just continue as you speak  "They were INTERLOPERS!"  he yells, as if he forgot about them, and the moment he spoke about them, he recalled their offenses.  "I do not"  he frowns and the will-o-wisps shuffle a little  "Know what they were."  he says plainly. He raises an arm to regard one of his bobbing friends  "We will be fine, things are stirring now which I will not speak of, they are things you would do well to not know...but."  he pauses  "I will send a friend with you, they will assist you as best they can, and can inform me of any....developments" 

A will-o-wisp breaks off from the main group surrounded Oakthorn and bobs around the group, seeking something, someone.

Oakthorn turns it's back to you  "Now I must prepare" 
 
 Spoiler 

the party now has a will-o-wisp animal companion/npc
it will bond with someone as a familiar if they are a spellcaster
 
Ilerien
Evindal tried to discern the disappeared ogres, but to no avail. Essentially it crossed out invisibility and ethereal travel, so they must've teleported out in some way.

  Vexing and worrisome.  

Thinking about what it would mean for their mission, the wizard descended gradually - until his gaze involuntarily focused the extend of the bloodbath his companions inflicted on the enemy. He managed to hold sudden nausea for just enough time to turn away and not shower the others with the contents of his stomach.

 - Oh, Corellon's tears,  - he muttered in Elven, hastily wiping his mouth and shifting his gaze from the corpses and patches of gore covering the ground just in time to see one of the will-o'-wisps separating from the flock.
Still levitating about 10 feet from the ground, the elf nodded to Oakthorn, then extended his arm towards the wisp, palm facing up, and said:
  - We'll be grateful for any assistance you're willing to lend us. Do you have a name we may call you?  
Cygnia
Tommasia cleaned the blood off her greatsword from one of the tunics of the fallen ogres.  Much like Evindal, she was also concerned about the vanishing foes -- and their hobgoblin allies.     "We need to get to Blackwood finally.  No telling how much time we have left..."    muttered the sellsword.

At least some of the enemy's assets had been slain, but for all they knew it was just drops in a sea of chaos.  And those ogres were much more skilled than the usual rock-chucker.
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia gathered round with her party, taking a moment to wipe the blood from her gauntlets and from her face. It had been a hard fought battle, but they had emerged clearly victorious. Honestly, this incident had gone a ways towards improving her opinion of the others. This time the odds had been far more stacked again them, but everyone had held up very well. Tommasia especially had earned some respect. The mage, however, seemed queasy after so much bloodshed; the white-haired woman couldn't help but laugh at him when the gory scene caused him to spill his guts.   "Come now,"   she teased,   "not at the dinner table!"  

A champion of slaughter, the paladin wasn't struggling nearly as much. But now that the adrenaline was fading, her injuries began to sting and pang. She had taken some serious blows, but Cervena seemed even more roughed up. As the group talked over their feast, Endymia offered help in her own way.   "My magic makes me a skilled healer, so it'll be no trouble to close these wounds - good as new."   She glanced over at her sister and added,   "I can treat you as well...  if  you ask nicely."  
Auranghzeb
 Cervena   
 Spoiler: Image 
 
 


The proud huntress of evil sneered at her sister's offer.

 I'm fine, I can go on like this. Don't you worry about me dear sister 

She grabbed some fruit from the ground, ate some and put some more in her satchel.

 We have work to do, lets move.  

And placing her hood over her head, she motioned towards the woods.
BelGareth
Oakthorn replies to the many comments without turning around,  "You, are, already in the Blackwoods little ones"  he says in his slow, booming voice. He raises one hand and points  "Head that direction, and you will find what you've been looking for" 

the Will-o-wisp just bobs and makes a pulsing sound to Evindal, perhaps that was it's name?

 
 Spoiler 

Are you claiming it as your Familiar?
 
LairdMaon
Cur turns his face to Oakthorn,  "Do you prefer these corpses left in any special way? They should fertilize your soil well, eventually. Cycle of life, ey?" 
BelGareth
Oakthorn booms with laughter at Cur  "Of course little one, you make me laugh. Yes....these...will be used, don't you fret my little cousin." 
Ilerien
  - I sincerely advise against eating what's left of the ogres, for dinner or otherwise, -    having regained his composure, Evindal flashed his own teeth (admittedly far less impressive) at Endymia in a brief grin.   - A severe case of indigestion would be detrimental to our mission.  

The will-o’-wisp glowing with ethereal blue light levitated over his palm while the mage was slowly descending to the ground.
  - Aren't you pretty?   - he addressed the wisp.   - Do you want to see the world outside the grove?   - the elf tilted his head for a moment, looking at the wisp intently. -   Of course you do. My vocal cords are poorly suited to pronouncing your real name, so I'll call you Amrynn, if you don't mind.  

The elf partook in the fruit break, verbosely thanked Oakthorn for his generosity and guidance in Sylvan, but part of his attention had been invariably focused on the wisp levitating in his close proximity and sometimes bobbing, weaving and pulsing.
Olive_Sophia
Endymia's mouth pouted for a moment after Cervena refused to accept her help. She knew that her sister was stubborn, but she didn't expect her to take it this far. She was obviously quite hurt - it was foolish not to relent at a time like this.   'No matter,'   she concluded,   'if she won't respect me, I'm not above letting her suffer.'  

After their dinner was finished, she beckoned some of the party near her.   "Tommasia, come here. I'll treat your wounds, as promised. It's true that my hands normally wield a terrible power. But the one I serve holds sway over both life and death, exalted as she is."   The paladin put her palms together in a praying motion and appealed to her patron.

  "O Tiamat, Dragon Goddess, once again your proud servant calls to you. I am grateful for the strength and the victory you have granted to me this day. Please, send me divine succor that I may fight on as your champion."  

A faint light then appeared, which surrounded the party but didn't seem to come from any particular source. A few seconds later, the light coalesced into a bright, golden wyrm. His form was not a corporeal one, but it was quite beautiful. Light played along his glittering scales as the long coils of his body rolled through the air. Small for a dragon, the creature was still as large as a man.   "An envoy of my Goddess,"   Endymia explained.   "He brings us her gift. Look - he's absolutely overflowing with vitality. Simply touching him should rid you of all pains. Don't worry, I'll demonstrate."  

She placed her hand on the wyrm's head, petting it in an affectionate manner. In no time, her injuries visibly shrank and faded away. Life energy washed over her with waves of euphoria.   'What an amazing feeling...'   she thought to herself; it never really got old.

   
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Endymia uses her  Spirit of Healing  ability. (0 uses remaining for today)

Allies that touch the dragon can choose a number of hp to draw from its healing pool. The pool is big enough to full heal any injured party members.
 
Cygnia
Oddly enough, the mercenary looked a lot less worse for wear than one might expect after getting hit by an ogre.  Tommasia's  Lifedrinking  crystal had proven to be a worthwhile investment.  Still, out of politeness (and to make sure she was fully healed Just In Case), she partook of Endymia's offered healing -- even it was just to fix up the remaining superficial scarring.

   "We shouldn't tarry too long,"    she grunted in between quick bites of fruit.     "No telling who those escaped ogres are reporting to.  Not to mention the 'missing' hobgoblin patrol might be noticed by now..."   
Auranghzeb
Of course the pragmatic Endymia didn't understand her reluctance and mistook it for pride: the dark paladin didn't understand how healing, provided by pure Evil like Tiamat was tapping on the negative forces of the universe. Cervena was hurt, her ribs cracked by those damned ogres. She just had to be more careful and use her psychic powers to make her body more resistance until she could find a less Profane source of healing.


However, with everyone taking their time, she suddenly remembered she hadn't ask the most pertinent question:


 Treebeard, why where the Ogres attacking the Dryad 
BelGareth
Oakthorn replies once again without turning around, he growls first,  "I do not know why they were torturing my great friend Lirethwen, but i do know it was not good, she is having a hard time...."  he pauses for a moment as if he were stammering  "she is having a hard time healing, I am concerned she may be permanently scared from this...event."  he shakes his formidable head, causing a small nest of robins to fly out and squawk their discomfort to their host  "I do not know little one, maybe.."  he pauses again, as if thinking  "Maybe you can find out?" 
Auranghzeb
Cervena nods.

 we will, Oakthorn, we will find out why are they defiling your woods. At least I will. I suspect is not the last we see of those ogres. 
Ilerien
  - It's likely, all things considered,   - Evindal nods slightly, squinting at the wisp.   - Though I personally wouldn't make binding promises, with all due respect, esteemed Oakthorn. Nobody knows what does our near future hold. And while the restored harmony of the grove speaks to my wish to withdraw from the worldly concerns for a bit of time, we don't have much of it to dally. The ogres have escaped and will definitely alert their superiors.  
BelGareth
One of Oakthorn's will-o-wisps hovers nearby, the one that Evindal called  Amrynn , it guides your way through the dense forest. You follow the ethereal glow as it leads you deeper into the woods, the trees closing in around you like silent sentinels. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth and moss, and the only sounds are the hushed whispers of leaves in the wind.

The journey through the forest is both tranquil and haunting. The spectral light of the will-o-wisp illuminates your path, casting eerie, shifting shadows among the trees. As you walk, you can't help but feel the weight of the recent battle and the specter of the dark creatures that had tormented the grove.

Eventually, you come to the edge of the forest, and before you stretches a wide, rushing river. On the opposite bank, where once stood a quaint town nestled amidst the trees, now stands a sprawling and ominous war camp. The scene is a stark contrast to the serene forest you've left behind.

The camp is a sprawling mass of hastily constructed structures, resembling an industrial juggernaut. Towers of dark wood and metal rise high above the trees, armed hobgoblins patrolling their heights. The ground has been scarred and stripped bare, trees felled and earth moved to accommodate the massive camp. Smokestacks belch thick plumes of dark smoke into the sky, casting a pall over the entire area.

The once-thriving town, now obliterated, is barely recognizable. Buildings have been torn down or repurposed, their materials used to construct the war camp's fortifications. What remains of the town has been ruthlessly incorporated into the camp's infrastructure. It's a grim testament to the Hobgoblins' relentless industrialization and disregard for the natural world.
LairdMaon
 "I do NOT like this. They have perverted this place and it stinks of the unnatural."  Even with his facial expressions less than obvious due to rigid steel instead of mobile flesh that he grasps the irony of his disgust.  "How will we lure out our target?" 
Auranghzeb
Cervena looked at the camp from hiding.

  If it stinks to you, imagine what revulsion I'm feeling. This has no relation to what we were informed initially. This is not a camp, this is a war factory. How many hobgoblins are there?  


Cervena wanted to evaluate their position, locate entrances and exits. But she suddenly crouched almost to the floor, her lite shape barely visible.

 A camp like this must have scouts and lookouts everywhere. Lay low and let me do some scouting, I guess you have some sort of magical scrying that could connect us... 

She crouched even lower, moving like a shade in the late afternoon and started to scout the perimeter. Her psicrystal floating centimeters over the grass next to her.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Hide  (1d20+14)[ 26 ]  MS  (1d20+14)[ 27 ] 
Sport (1d20+18)[ 32 ]  +4 more If Evil.

SPECIAL SENSES: 30' scent evil, 15' to 60' depending on the wind. Up to 60-120' if the aura is very strong
 
Cygnia
   "At best we were given outdated information,"    muttered Tommasia.     "At worst..."    The sellsword's face hardened and she looked towards the others still there.     "...it's the feeling that's been in my gut ever since we all started this mission.  I think someone higher up in the Petals is compromised -- a double agent."   
Ilerien
 - None for now, unfortunately, -  Evindal whispered back to Cervena, clearly not happy about having to admit it.  - But Amrynn here can follow you and deliver a message should you need to share it with us urgently. Please, dear, extinguish your glow for now so nobody sees you, be at Cervena's side, listen to her, watch your surroundings and don't engage any enemies. Return safely, -   he addresses the will-o’-wisp.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Does Amrynn have to roll hide/ms/spot/listen?
 

 - I agree with your analysis. This looks like it used to be more of a town than a village. Still, with no way to contact the higher-ups we have to at least try following the plan whilst anticipating we're going directly into a trap. Just like old times.  - He chuckled.  - If the contact Hackford mentioned is worth their salt, they're still somewhere out there. 
LairdMaon
 "If it's a trap, I vote we spring it. The surprise is the teeth of a trap, remove that and we have an advantage they can't anticipate. Our own trap to spring from within."  Cur continues, not taking his eyes from the atrocious encampment,  "They might even take us directly in past their fortifications." 
Cygnia
   "We need all the information we can get  before  any springing.  Charging in there without knowledge or a plan gives the enemy the advantage over  us ."     This was the time for subtlety -- something Tommasia and some of the others woefully lacked.     "Let Cervena scout first."   
BelGareth
Amrynn bobs in assent as it moves closer to Cervan who smells a sweet honey like nectar on the air as it came closer, it vanished from sight, dimming it's glow as asked, Cervena checks herself, and then nods to the group and then disappears into the underbrush next to the hillock, the others squint and peek out over the foliage, pretending to see her. But Cervan is too good, and vanished she has.

Moving like a shadow, it's easy for you to reach all the way down to the river's edge, here it's a little more complicated, but you find a lodged dead tree trunk that was left from a flood. You crawl on your belly, and slowly submerge into the calm dark water of the river, keeping your head barely above, you use the log as cover and take a moment to observe the guard towers from this perspective. The guards were well trained, had good discipline, you could tell it wasn't going to be as easy as you hoped. However, guards are guards and they always suffer from the cycle of complacency, such was the duty, it was an inevitability, and here you found it like any other camp, they idly chat with each other, warm their hands at the brazier at the center of the tower and drink their warmed caff from steaming cups.

You slowly submerge entirely into the river and swim across, it's a simple exercise, and rather refreshing from all the...carnage, the weight of the day seemed to wash away in the cool wintry water, the swim was easy for you, and you think you could create a rope guide for your less than capable team mates. Once across, you eye another place that is in the shadow, and will let you get close to the wall actual. several minutes later, and some crawling on your belly, and you are next to the walls, you inspect them and they seem to be made out of local trees, pine mostly, but they were thick and relatively fresh, hard to light on fire, but not impossible, and very resilient to blunt trauma, the ditches were deep as well. You find a crack and peek through to see a relatively bustling little war complex, it is late in the evening, but people are still out and about, all the guards are hobgoblins, yet several other races were about, to include ogres, and gnolls, several humans in chains were being worked around the camp.

You hear one of the guards mutter something about their relief, and know you do not have long to linger.

 
 Spoiler 

Whaddya do?
 
Auranghzeb
Cervena didn't want to risk too much. She backtracks up until the water banks where she crossed. Once there she instructs her psycrystal to stay put and communicate telepathically the movements of the watch, allowing her to move faster without looking over her shoulder. She wanted to relay the intelligence gathered to the others. There was a place to infiltrate, but the matter was how or when with this not too subtle group of hers...


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
ms &amp; hide  (1d20+14)[ 29 ]   (1d20+14)[ 23 ] 
Spot  (1d20+18)[ 29 ] +4 if evil
 
BelGareth
Cervana moves like a ghost through the water, and the subsequent underbrush, her psicrystal alerting her of any changes, nothing changes, the guards are complacent, and not searching very hard. She manages to get back to the group without any issues.
LairdMaon
After listening intently to Cervena's report, Cur finally sits down on the ground. He stops moving as his eyes unfocus.

 "I don't have anything that doesn't end with capture or death for one or all of us."  Cur's animation is gradual and he returns to his feet and directs his gaze across the party.  "If any of you have some idea that has less chance of killing us, I'll gladly hear it." 
Cygnia
   "Tomorrow, I could use  Alter Self  to make myself look like a hobgoblin. Maybe get a better idea where our target is in that camp --  if  he's in that camp at all. Or find other things to sabotage. But the spell would only last eighty minutes..."    offered a grim-faced Tommasia.  The idea that they were being set up to fail was still heavy in her thoughts.  Not to mention, she wasn't comfortable with the idea of being in the camp without some sort of support.
Ilerien
When Cervena returned, Evindal smiled at still invisible Amrynn above her shoulder and reached out with his hand. The wisp reacted with a soft, though still eerie, sound.

The mage glanced at the mercenary.   No way Tommasia is going there by herself. If the mission is compromised, it'll be a death sentence.  
 - Infiltrating the camp alone is unwise, though. I imagine we can both manage to maintain the transmutation you speak of for roughly an hour and a half, or about double this period if we stabilize the dweomers with that rod I have with me. The formula is relatively short-lived, unfortunfately, and we'll be pretty short on time before our hobgoblin disguises run out,  - Evindal bent his brows. -  My arcane arsenal is pretty depleted, so I'd prefer to rest and prepare some more surprises for the not-so-gracious hosts the hobgoblins are. 
Auranghzeb
Cervena exhales, visibly irritated.

 Our mission is simple. Get in and assassinate the leadership. We need intelligence on where the leaders are. Therefore, we need to either infiltrate or sneak in. I can do the latter, but I'm afraid this is not a very stealthy unit, if we can even call it a unit.   

She says, eyeing her sister.

 Dear sister of mine. I'm afraid I'll have to accept you patching me up. There's no point in waiting forever. We either go in or we withdraw. And I'm willing to try and go in, my way. Perhaps I could use a misdirection, a noticeable and noisy one that draws attention away from my sneaking up. Can we prepare something like that?  
Ilerien
Evindal shrugged.

 - If you're looking for noisy, detonating a good old inelegant fireball is the way to go, but this will surely draw attention to the fact there's an unaccounted for spellcaster around. I'm sure their leadership is able to add two and two and draw a conclusion that the same people who gave their forces at the grove a bad day must have arrived at Blackwood,   - the elf paused for a moment.  - The alternative would be summoning something unusual enough, but I, sadly, haven't prepared for it in advance. Well, and dear Amrynn here can mimic a march fire, but it wouldn't be loud, and I'd very much prefer that no harm comes to him. 
Auranghzeb
Cervena listens to the mage.

 How soon could you have it prepared? The best time to strike would be the dark hours of dawn. Hobgoblins can see as well at night as anyone in bright day. But they are likely to be more relaxed towards the end of the night. 

She communicates remotely with her psicrystal to monitor the situation.

 We need a method of communication. I can sneak in and locate the leader. 
Ilerien
 - If we set up camp somewhere safe and quiet, before the dawn would be doable. 

The wizard glanced at the distant fortifications.

 - How does being invisible and able to fly sound as opposed to us causing a ruckus? Would it be enough for you to get in there safely now? Amrynn can go with you invisibly as well. It's an imperfect method of communication - sorry, friend - but at least you'd be able to deliver a message. And then we could use the intelligence you acquire to plan the before-the-dawn infiltration accordingly. 
BelGareth
As you discuss, a faint smell of clove, orange and garlic waft over you all, and a  tiny  round portal pops open nearby, a hand reaches out and drops a package, then as fast as it appeared, it withdraws and pops out of existence, the smell lingers for a good while, reminding some of you of home cooked feasts during Winters Eve.

The bundle contains several potions and a letter:


 I trust this message finds you well. In light of the urgency and sensitivity of your current mission, I have taken the liberty of personally delivering the necessary supplies and equipment via a discreet portal.

Inside, you will find everything you need for the operation ahead, including:

    6 potions of Alter Self (Level 10)
    6 potions of Invisibility (Level 6)
    6 potions of Cure Moderate Wounds (Level 6)
    1 potion of Greater Invisibility (Level 10)
    1 potion of nondetection (level 10)

Time is of the essence, and we cannot afford any undue attention or risk exposure.

I have every confidence in your abilities to carry out this mission successfully. Remember, the fate of our cause rests in your hands.

Best of luck, and may fortune favor you.

Sergeant Hackford 

Classic Sergeant Hackford, there was a reason he had such a high mission success rate.
Auranghzeb
Not waiting anymore for her sister, Cervena chugs one of the Cure Moderate Wounds Potions, pockets another one, one potion of Alter Self and the potion of greater invisibility.

She looks at the wizard.

 What can you do tonight? We ought to be infiltrating this right now. Before they find out about the patrol we eliminated and they raise security.

I'm going in in one hour when the night is fully dark.

 
Ilerien
 - The sergeant knows his drill,  - the mage sighed after reading the note and closed his eyes for a couple of moments to catalogue the arcane formulae his memory was holding and translate them into simple words.  - A couple of short range transportation spells, let's say, the limitation would be around 750 feet, and I can confidently bring three more people with me, but if I'm to teleport blindly, the space should be scouted first. Arriving inside a solid object would be unpleasant to say the least. I can make someone airborne for roughly 10 minutes, maybe a bit less, and I still have capacity for opening a locked door instantly or conjuring some fairly simple illusion. Other than that, I don't have many useful spells inflitration-wise  left that aren't already covered by Hackford's well-timed gifts. Naturally, there's a fireball up my sleeve in case we require a flashy and, forgive the pun, destructive distration. 
Auranghzeb
 Time is of the essence. I'm moving in. I'll trust you for support. If you can sit outside the spot I found for infiltration.
 

Cervena checks her items, her health restored by the potions. She looks at the other agents, all silent and wordless.

 Maybe bring some of them with your teleport. I'm gone. 

And she moves stealthily back to the edge of the camp.
Cygnia
With some suspicion towards the sergeant's "gift", Tommasia reluctantly pocketed one of each, a potion of  Alter Self ,  Cure Moderate Wounds , and  Invisibility . She eyed one of the vials carefully and glanced over to Evindal.     "Are these what the sergeant claims they are then?"   
 (1d20+14)[ 19 ]  Spellcraft check.
Ilerien
 - Amrynn, dear, please, follow our friend and don't make yourself known. I need to you to return and desribe the suitable location Cervena hopefully finds in detail,  - Evindal said to the apparently empty space above his shoulder.

The mage took the vial from Tommasia and shook it gently looking into the patterns formed by the liquid inside.  - See these vaguely hexagonal formations? Looks genuine to me. Testing all other vials would be a waste of time. 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Spellcraft check:  (1d20+21)[ 25 ] 
 
BelGareth
 Weather:  Cloudy
 Time:  Afternoon-Evening

The day becomes overcast as you make your plans, and with it, the biting cold of a autumnul country wind comes cutting through everyone.

Cervena, you make it back to the same spot without any issues, you are close by the wooden palisade wall where the hole was before, it's the negative space where the knot of the wood fell out, not much to work with.


 


Cervena vanishes, and then heads off, much as Amrynn does.

What do you do?
LairdMaon
Cur finally takes a seat and gazes at the equipment dropped off to them.  It might be wisest for me to travel hidden in our travel gear. I can take on the shape of a small animal to stay out of eyesight. I can tail you within the walls and be ready to revert to my fighting form when needed.  
Cygnia
The potions were genuine.  So why did Tommasia still feel that the sergeant was fishy?  That they were being set up to intentionally fail?  But, with no concrete evidence (yet), all she could do was focus on the mission.

With that, she had to place her  Watch Lamp  into her Haversack for the time being.  A hobgoblin walking around with one of those would look awfully suspicious.
LairdMaon
Cur's eyes follow Tommasia's hands as she put away her lamp.

 If you have room in there for a small snake, that could be my way in. And when you need me, I'll be ready.  
BelGareth
 Weather:  Cloudy
 Time:  Late evening

Cervena slips silently into the camp, this time she just moves through the closest gate, invisible and silent as a ghost.

Past the ground guards, Cervena noticed two soldiers engrossed in a name game, their laughter echoing through the night. Ignoring their duties, they huddled together, each attempting to outwit the other with increasingly absurd monikers.  "Horgul the Horrendous!"  one exclaimed, struggling to contain his amusement.  "No, no, how about Snargle the Slothful?"  countered the other, their banter punctuated by bouts of raucous laughter. Unaware of the looming threat, they continued their frivolous game, oblivious to the danger lurking just beyond their laughter.

Scuttling across, she finds a small alleyway between tents near the gate, sounds of snoring, silent sleepers abound, a few night activities in a tent every so often, but nothing Cervena couldn't stifle, pause and wait until an opportune moment.

The camp smelled....much better than she thought it would, most of the foot soldiers were just normal non-evil hobgoblins, of course the actual smell was much worse, it was rank, and they could have been utilizing the nearby river this whole time...

Moving on, she slides between bigger tents, these seemed to belong to more important people, as if the outer tents near the walls were the smallest, meaning...yes, the largest tents were in the center....surrounding the log building.

As Cervena stealthily passed a larger tent adorned with intricate banners, she noticed several alcoves illuminated by flickering torchlight. From within emanated the sounds of revelry and merriment, hinting at a gathering of significance. Laughter mingled with the clinking of goblets and the melody of a lute, painting a picture of opulence and indulgence. The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices and rich wines, enticing her senses even from a distance.

Intrigued, Cervena caught glimpses of scantily clad figures moving gracefully between the alcoves, their silhouettes dancing in the warm glow of the torches. Servants bustled about, bearing trays laden with sumptuous delicacies, while musicians filled the air with melodies that stirred the soul.

Despite the festive atmosphere, an undercurrent of tension lingered, palpable beneath the veneer of celebration. The occasional hushed conversation and furtive glances betrayed an air of secrecy, hinting at hidden agendas and clandestine alliances.

Venturing closer to the main building, an overwhelming sense of malevolence enveloped her like a suffocating shroud. It was as if a river of darkness flowed through the very air, tainting everything it touched with its sinister presence. The sensation caused her to falter for a moment, her instincts recoiling at the oppressive aura that surrounded her.

Each subsequent tent she passed emitted a similar foul odor, hinting at the pervasive corruption that permeated the entire camp. The stench grew stronger with each step, seeping into her senses and filling her with a sense of dread.

However, as she approached the imposing structure that served as the heart of the camp, the intensity of the malevolence reached a crescendo. The building loomed before her like a fortress of darkness, its very walls seeming to pulse with an unholy energy. The air around it crackled with an aura of malignancy, causing Cervena to draw back instinctively.

Gathering her resolve, she steeled herself against the overwhelming evil that emanated from the building, her determination unwavering in the face of such darkness. With each breath, she pushed forward, her resolve unyielding as she braced herself for whatever awaited within.

Cervena surveyed the entrances to the foreboding building, she noticed two distinct pathways leading inside, each flanked by an alcove where guards or attendants might wait.

To her left, a narrow passage wound its way into the darkness, the entrance partially obscured by the shadows cast by the surrounding tents. The alcove adjacent to it appeared deserted, its dimly lit interior giving no indication of any occupants.

On the right, another entrance beckoned, its doorway adorned with sinister symbols etched into the stone. The alcove beside it was similarly vacant, though a faint flicker of torchlight danced at its entrance, hinting at the presence of a guard stationed nearby.

Weighing her options, Cervena considered the risks and benefits of each route. The left passage offered a more concealed approach, with less chance of immediate detection. However, its darkness also presented the possibility of unseen obstacles or hidden threats lurking within.

On the other hand, the right entrance appeared more heavily guarded, but its proximity to the torchlight suggested a potential distraction or opportunity for subterfuge. Despite the increased risk of detection, it offered a more direct route into the heart of the building.
Auranghzeb
 The goal is information 
Cervena had to remind herself to prevent her from just lunging to the darkness of the left entrance. She had gathered enough and she had also seen this placed reeked of evil, but the Hobgoblins were mere pawns of something bigger.

She scanned around for a safe location for teleporting the others and then sent a telepathic message to her Psicrystal relating the intelligence gathered for her psicrystal to telepathically communicate it to the wizard.

She then hid.
Ilerien
They waited for Cervena's signal, her crystal sitting nearby, presumably, receiving some input from her.

Evindal similarly listened to Amrynn's own emotions, as their newly established link allowed. They weren't immediately translateable, though after some time the wizard has managed to pinpoint cusiosity, confusion and excitement, or at least he thought he had.

He tensed momentarily as thoughts not belonging to him started appearing in his mind. The camp, its streets and denizens, the central abode, the approaches, the overwhelming foul odor of something rotten.   How does she even live with it? If I smelled this every time someone evil wandered into proximity...  
  - It's time. Please, huddle around me, place one of your hands on my shoulder and drink your invisibility potions. I trust it everyone used the time to think up some hobgoblin of roughly the same proportions to turn into with the help of one of these alteration potions. A small snake works as well,   - he said with a small smile.   - Let's go on the, ahem, adventure and hope our friend hasn't misjudjed the distance, or we're in for some... turbulence.  

As everyone prepared themselves, the elf scooped Cervena's psicrystal up, stowed it into his haversask and invoked a familiar arcane formula, himself disappearing from sight.

  - Brace for translocation,   - said the invisible wizard with somewhat strained voice and recited a complex incantation with different undertones.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 See invisibility  and  invisibility  on himself, then  dimension door  targeting everyone around to some point with enough space close to the building Cervena described. If she's sureveyed the area enough to point out some convenient location where us bumping into someone is unlikely, Evindal will try to follow the description closely.
 
Cygnia
Cur-as-snake safely in her haversack?  Check.

Hand on Evindal?  Check.

Invisibility potion drunk?  Check.

Alter Self potion ready on top for quaffing when needed?  Check.

Jinx dismissed for the time being?  Reluctant check...
Auranghzeb
Seeing that the party was once again stalling. Cervena urged the recently teleported crew.

Silently she gestured to the different buildings and lowering herself to a stalking crouch, she moved swiftly towards the building where she had stopped her scouting.
BelGareth
 Weather:  Cloudy
 Time:  Late evening

As Cervena waits, she knows it's moments before the rest of her team appears to move forward with the mission, finally, you would be near your mark, and hopefully get in and get out, though, without an egress plan, getting out may be a bit trickier than it sounds.

With an audible *pop* of your ears, the rest of the team appears around you, or at least you hope.

The lights under the door are constant, and you do not hear any voices coming from within.
BelGareth
 In the Trash 
Pilrgim

You were literally thrown out in the trash.

But that was the  plan. 

At least, that's what it was.

But it seemingly is going well, you have cased the joint for a while, having come from the West you avoided the majority of encounters and issues traveling through the already conquered country side. It hadn't been hard at all, the guards, while alert and vigilant...were just guards at the end of the day, anything beyond looking out from their posts was just not in their vocabulary, it wasn't even  allowed . So learning the patterns, timings, counting the troops was easy, this you expected.

But getting inside?

That was another matter altogether, the Empire had a pretty solid standing army, and they did one thing very  very  well, build camps. But you managed it, somehow, you were in the trash heap looking directly at the main buildings door. It taken the better part of a week to get there, but you had managed it, slowly moving from trash pile to trash pile, your innate skill and understanding of metal allowing you to move unseen in the camp. Now was the time you set on your chronometer, waking up, you eye a strange sight.

A single small female human had appeared out of  nowhere , but your discerning eyes tell you it's who you were sent to meet. Cracking the wafer you were given to communicate with your fellow Petals, the only method given to you of finding them, your consciousness opens up wide connecting to the other agents in a surprise meet and greet.

You can discern 4 individual minds in the link.
 
 Spoiler 

Pilgrim has activated a wafer of Telepathy, you all gain Telepathy with the group for the next  10 minutes 
@Rypta, Petals are agents in the field who get activated, you have been activated and tasked to join up with these agents. Typcially, Petals will identify themselves with a petal motif or something similar, but it was a time crunch, and this was all the good Sergeant Hackford could scrap together. you get the impression he is spread too thin. Things back home must not be going so well.
 
rypt
A rounded metal object slowly rises from the surface of a refuse pile not far from the small human woman.  Whether or not she notices it moving is one thing; whether or not she recognizes it as the head of a warforged is another -- for the head of this warforged is nearly featureless, possessing only those most basic elements which are necessary to approximate the form of a humanoid face.  A heartbeat's span later, Cervena and the others feel a foreign mind brush against their own.

  &lt;"Greetings, agents of the Rose.  Sergeant Hackford told me to await your arrival here, and so I have."&gt;    Even in this mindspace, there is an odd artificial quality to this new and unfamiliar consciousness.    &lt;"I am called Pilgrim, and I am to aid you in your mission."&gt;  

Two metal-plated limbs emerge then from the garbage pile.  One steel hand reaches out to take hold of a section of nearby piping.  The other grips the handle of large black metal warhammer, which it presses downward into the earth.  Very slowly, the body of a truly enormous warforged emerges from the pile of garbage, seeming to unfold itself from a position which could only be maintained by a creature which lacks internal organs.  Stained with oil and other unpleasant fluids that evidence hours if not days spent hiding in filth, the metal of its body is worn with age and mismatched in places.  An equally dirty brown cloak is draped over its broad shoulders, only partially obscuring a number of rune-engraved metal sheets which hang at its waist.  Once the living construct has stepped out of the garbage, it crouches low to avoid notice by any patrolling guards.

  &lt;"Are you anticipating violence?"&gt;  
Auranghzeb
Cervena looks at the newcomer, a curious object. She didn't think as Tomassia that Sergeant Hackford was a traitor, but he surely was careless and disorganized. But well, any allies were welcomed in dire straits.

Cervena motioned to the new agent and answered, mentally.

 Welcome Pilgrim, yes, we expect violence. Get ready, we will have more time to make formal introductions later. 

She moved along the closest wall, alert, and manifested a psionic power.

 There will be violence 
 
 Spoiler: Powers and actions 
Manifesting an augmented Vigor (6pp extra for 7pp total and 35 temp hp for 9 minutes, so clock is ticking) then concentration check to recover psionic focus  (1d20+14)[ 34 ]  vs dc 20.
 
rypt
Pilgrim motions his head up and down.  It is a nod, but one so unusually slow it is as though he is repeating a gesture which had only ever been described to him but never demonstrated.    &lt;"Understood.  I will prepare."&gt;  

There is a subtle pulse of magic then from the warforged's left hand which blankets the surrounding area in an all-encompassing silence.  One might expect the absence of sound to prevent the casting of spells, but those with a particularly keen sense for magic will notice that Pilgrim invokes two spells without the need for either incantation or hand movement.  Instead, with each spell, a rune vanishes from one of the metal plates at his waist.

As sound returns to normal, the warforged relays telepathically,   &lt;"My preparations are complete."&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Pilgrim will activate his Ring of Silent Spells to cast  shield  (8 minute duration) and  greater mighty wallop  (8 hour duration).  He will then dismiss the silence, lest a guard pass through its area.
 
BelGareth
With preparation's made, the lot of you manage to figure out who is going to be opening the door after it is searched. You find nothing on the door, and the latch is a simple lever, they obviously haven't been able to bring any skilled carpenters with them yet. The door opens with a muffled creak, slowly revealing the insides of the building, you see a hallway spreading to either side, no sound comes from within.

No sound at  all .
Cygnia
Another non-subtle ally sent by Hackford, but they certainly weren't in a position for Tommasia to audibly express her concerns about this right now.  Not with this eerie silence in this environment.  And as far as she knew, none of their party were responsible for it.

     &lt;Can anyone determine if this silence in the hall is natural or magical at all before we go too far down?&gt;     
LairdMaon
 &lt;A silent hall?&gt;  Cur's mind reaches out of the bag of holding,  &lt;I can find out how far it goes if you take me out and throw me. It would also be nice to stretch my coils.&gt; 
rypt
Pilgrim raises one hand near to the side of his head and touches the metal tips of his thumb and forefinger together just hard enough that he would expect to produce a faintly perceptible sound.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Just a simple test to check for a  silence  effect.
 
BelGareth
You make a small metallic *clink* sound.
Cygnia
    &lt;One snake, coming out...&gt;      The good thing about the Haversack was Tommasia could easily have Cur-as-Snake on the top to pull out.  Lifted by an invisible hand, she carefully tossed the serpent down the hall...     &lt;Be careful.&gt;    
BelGareth
Cur slithers silently through the doorway, gliding across the polished wooden floor of the main building. The air is heavy with the scent of leather and metal, mingled with the faint tang of sweat from the soldiers who frequent the space.

The bottom floor of the building is spacious, with high ceilings supported by sturdy wooden beams. Tapestries adorn the walls, depicting scenes of battle and conquest, while suits of armor stand sentinel in the corners, their polished lacquered surfaces gleaming in the muted light filtering in through narrow windows.

Along one wall, racks of weapons are neatly organized, ranging from gleaming swords and axes to sturdy bows and quivers of arrows. Shields emblazoned with the emblem of the warlord hang nearby, ready to be snatched up at a moment's notice.

In the center of the room, a large table dominates the space, littered with maps, scrolls, and parchments detailing the movements of troops and strategies for the ongoing war. A pair of oil lamps cast flickering shadows across the tabletop, their warm glow providing the only source of illumination in the otherwise dimly lit room. Stair lead upwards behind the table.

Despite the ominous silence that hangs heavy in the air, the bottom floor of the building appears to be deserted.
LairdMaon
Cur stops at the base of the stairs and attempts to protect his thoughts to the other petals. He describes,  in detail, the layout of the area while noting the convenience of the oil lamps as a possible method of sowing confusion. He finishes his report, saying,  &lt;so with this floor being empty, I'm going upstairs. You may want to come further in to secure the building.&gt; 
Cygnia
    &lt;On it...&gt;     Tommasia mentally responded, then turned the telepathy towards the others.      &lt;We shouldn't let him get too far ahead in case he comes across something upstairs.&gt;    
Ilerien
Evindal  almost  jumped at the sight of the unfamiliar construct rising from the scrap heap. He had  almost  formulated an adequate response when he felt the subtle touch of mental communication attempt.

  &lt;So you're the agent sergeant Hackford told us to seek inside Blackwood? We're quite fortunate then. Maitre Evindal Cairen, at your service.&gt;   - he relayed over the connection and then turned his mental voice, soft and subtle, towards Cervena:
  &lt;Sincerely, it was outstanding work - I mean, scouting the premises and directing me here. Your crystal is stashed safely in my haversack. Notify me when you want it brought out. It will be visible, though.&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I imagine the above happens moments after their arrival. Sorry for the late post. :)
 

  &lt;Agreed. Let's advance in a marching order not to get in each other's way. Let's say Cervena, Tommasia, Pilgrim, myself? Any objections? Also, we have a spare invisibility potion so you don't stand out in the otherwise empty hallway.&gt;  
rypt
Pilgrim observes the sentient snake slithering down the hallway.    &lt;"I do not object.  But nor do I know your names.  I will place myself in the third position."&gt;    The warforged waits for the others to order themselves before taking his place between Tommasia and Evindal.  He will then turn to face the invisible elf behind him.    &lt;"I will accept your spare potion.  Thank you."&gt;    He extends his metal hand as though he can see Evindal clearly.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Pilgrim will expend 2 charges from his Scout's Headband to gain the benefit of  see invisibility  for the next 10 minutes.  Assuming Evindal hands him a potion, he will drink it.
 
Ilerien
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Yep, he does hand Pilgrim the potion.
I recorded the rest of Hackford's timely gift in Evindal's inventory so we don't lose count of what remains. In case anyone else took some more, do tell me please. :)
 
BelGareth
Cur slithers up the stairs as you all enter the buildings first floor, and you all  feel  his telepathic communication stop.

 
 Spoiler 

Laird, we'll continue in a private chat in discord.

What does everyone else do?
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The invisible Endymia waited in the lower room with the others, poring over its contents in the meantime. With its robust frame and polished floors, this was the nicest building in the entire village - and as was often the case, the nicest hall was set to official purposes. This was nothing less than a war room. The armor and weaponry was abundant; each tapestry gloried in the conquests of battle. This was undoubtedly the heart of the hobgoblin command. That meant their mark had been here. Endymia flashed an unseen smile at the thought. Another quick success with the petals deserved a luxurious payout, and enough time to enjoy it, too. The idea of penetrating the camp had seemed so unlikely a few hours ago, but Sergeant Hackford had turned out to be worth his salt after all. With that help, they had found just about the right angle to execute the captain.

But it was strange that the war room was so empty. Passing strange. True, it was very late- but you would expect the leader to be guarded at all times.   &lt;"It looks like he may not be here,"&gt;   Endymia posited.   &lt;"Perhaps another expedition? But then I don't think he could have gone far..."&gt;   She took a moment to look over the map on the planning table, taking a mental note of any marked locations. Troop locations, other war camps, or planned attacks. All of that information might be valuable once she made it out of here.

  &lt;"How long do we plan to leave Cur alone up there? I've half a mind to go after him."&gt;   Perhaps she was being a little hasty, but this wasn't the time to leave stones unturned.
Cygnia
    &lt;One minute -- if that.&gt;      Tommasia was resisting the urge to rush in up after Cur as Snake.     &lt;Evindal, do you have any Detect Magic left?  See if there's any aura above us we should be aware of?  Meanwhile, if we could snag those documents on troop movements and the like, those could prove to be useful to find out what the enemy is planning next...&gt;    
rypt
Pilgrim looks to the staircase the moment Cur's telepathic connection is severed.    &lt;"Is the snake capable of defending itself?"&gt;   he asks of the others.

When Evindal is asked to check for auras, Pilgrim conveys,   &lt;"I am able to cast the spell if he is not."&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
If Evindal is unable to cast  detect magic , Pilgrim will do so.
 
BelGareth
Casting the spell and focusing on the stairs upwards, you definitely detect a large aura of magical energy.
Ilerien
Evindal (invisibly) nodded, then scolwled (also invisibly) and responded.

  &lt;I do. I'll try to my best to make its verbal formula as soft as possible.&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Ffs, I'm again too slow. Let's say Evindal cast it because he had it. :) Sorry.
Spellcraft check to determine the school:  (1d20+21)[ 24 ] 
 

  &lt;There is a pretty impressive sized aura upstairs.&gt;  
Auranghzeb
Cervena moves ahead to the second floor shortly after Cur, she needed to put some distance from her sister, whose stench  
 Spoiler 
welcome back Sista
 
 cluttered her sensors for evil.
 Grab the documents, I'll provide Cur with support. 
BelGareth
Cervena likewise ascends the stairs, and you all feel her telepathic communication stop.

 
 Spoiler: Cervena 

We'll continue in discord
 
Olive_Sophia
 
  &lt;"Not without me you don't!"&gt;   came Endymia's thought over the telepathic channel. A moment later she hurried up after her sister. She had a bad feeling about whatever was going on up there. The fate of their mission could even depend on it. She wasn't the type to sit back and see how things played out. The paladin steeled her resolve and headed in to find out...
rypt
Pilgrim begins to move toward the table only to stop mid-stride as the white-haired woman dashes by.  He turns his head to follow her as she hurries up the stairs.  The warforged had assumed the brown-haired woman to be in charge of the others.  For a moment he wonders if this action in contravention of her order would constitute insubordination.  He then moves the rest of the way to the table and begins gathering loose documents into an orderly stack.  If there is a scroll tube on the table, he will roll up the documents and place them inside it.  Otherwise, he will roll them up and slide them into a bag on his lower back.  Once finished, he looks back and forth between the black-haired woman and the elf, uncertain which one is now in charge.
Ilerien
Evindal's next broadcasted thought came with a clear mental sigh.

  &lt;So much for following a reasonable plan of infiltration. I suppose the dweomer I'm observing is the one interfering with our connection. If I were designing elaborate arcane defences, I would've included something more lethal further in to dispose of anyone doing reconnaisance. No reason to expect whoever warded this are to be less savvy. As we can't afford losing half the group to an ambush, we're following them upstairs.&gt;  

The elf muttered an incantation and made a circular gesture, followed by an abrupt swish.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Shield  on himself.
 
Cygnia
Tommasia was about ready to thank Pilgrim for grabbing the documents when--

    &lt;OH FOR BLOODY ****'S SAKE!!!&gt;    

--yet ANOTHER member of their group decided to charge upstairs pell mell without thinking.  Cur was the scout, fine.  Cervena following after to check on him, fair.  But as soon as both telepathic connections had been severed....

    &lt;Evindal, we need to know more about that aura!&gt;     No one had yelled or screamed as far as they knew.  Some sort of  Silence  field would conflict with  Anti-Magic  normally.  A cold rock formed in Tommasia's gut.  She remembered hearing a story in the taverns about a party of hot-headed adventures who had hired a guide to a so-called "lost" temple where fabulous treasure could be found.  Every member of that party decided to crawl into the mouth of an odd tunnel that just happened to be a  Sphere of Annihilation .

Except the guide, who had conned idiots like that before.  And came out of the temple several hundred gold richer.

A few more seconds to get the information...that's what Tommasia needed.
Ilerien
The elf closed his eyes a moment.

  &lt;Determining its school isn't worth the delay anymore. For now, my friend, I'm asking you to put your trust in my judgment. Let's go find the others.&gt;  
Cygnia
    &lt;I just pray we're not all rushing to stick our heads in the noose with them...&gt;      To say Tommasia didn't like the idea would have been an understatement.  But, still invisible, she pulled out her greatsword and activated her  Eternal Wand  of  Bull's Strength  on herself.     &lt;Into the abyss, I guess...&gt;     
 
 Spoiler: Action 

Activating Bull's Strength for 3 minutes
 
BelGareth
As Pilgrim, Tommasia, Evindal, and Endymia ascend the stairs to join their companions, the atmosphere grows increasingly tense, the air heavy with anticipation. As they step into the upper chamber, they are enveloped by an impenetrable darkness, the magical smoke swirling around them like a sinister cloak.

Despite their best efforts to maintain their composure, a creeping sense of unease begins to gnaw at their senses. The darkness seems to press in on all sides, obscuring their vision and filling them with a sense of foreboding.

Suddenly, from the depths of the darkness, grotesque shapes emerge, their outlines barely visible in the dim light. The air is thick with the stench of evil, a palpable presence that chills them to the bone.

As they stand in the midst of this nightmarish tableau, a primal fear grips their hearts, threatening to overwhelm their senses. With each passing moment, the darkness seems to close in tighter, suffocating them with its oppressive weight.

 
 Spoiler 

 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...it?usp=sharing 

You have been placed on the map.

Everything is completely dark DC 23 spellcraft check to identify the affect as a  Deeper Darkness  spell

Evindal, Endymia, Pilgrim and Tommasia please roll Init, you will join after the bad guys go, depending on your results. You also need to roll two will saves vs a Fear affect. DC 18, failure means you are shaken.

 Initiative 
Cur can act, then Evindal, and Endymia
then we'll go top of the round
 


As you all join the others, you may not be able to see them, but your telepathic connection has been restored, and so you can hear the telepathic fear and grunts from Cur and Cervena of being attacked by some unseen foe.

Each one is subject to an attack from the unseen Samurai's, they suddenly appear out of the smoke, sinister masks, and swirling smoke, tetsubō's held high, smashing down with incredible force. Each one vanished just as quick as they appeared.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack vs Cur:
Crit attack hit, take 25 bludgeoning/magical damage, and go prone from being knocked down and pushed back 5ft by the crit.

Attack vs Cervena:
Hit AC 27, for 11 bludgeoning/magical damage
 
LairdMaon
Cur stands back up moments after feeling the telepathic connection re-engage and bellows through it,  "Hug the walls! There are two guards and the general in here! I'm moving close to the center of the room, use me as a target if you need to."  

With his feet under him once again, the four-armed steel beast strides forward.

 
 Spoiler: ooc 

Standing from Prone and then moving to N10, N11, O10, O11
 
BelGareth
As you move across the room, a ghostly testubo comes flying through the mists to smack you in the chest. Take  10  bludgeoning/magical damage
Auranghzeb
Cervena took the hit, it was the creature's mistake. Now its scent and location were much clearer to the huntress. She manifested a power that delved with speed and movement, focusing her senses into a swift moment. She stepped forwards and slashed blindly into the darkness,  hoping 
 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Swift: Hustle to use the extra movement action to locate evil.
5'step and full attack the darkness... -2 form grudge keeper.

Kurkis are Force in case it matters.

[roll] 1d20+16[/roll] miss chance &gt;50% (1d100)[ 70 ]  [damage  (1d4+11)[ 13 ] 
[roll] 1d20+16[/roll] miss chance &gt;50% (1d100)[ 64 ]  [damage  (1d4+11)[ 12 ] 

[roll] 1d20+11[/roll] miss chance &gt;50% (1d100)[ 63 ]  [damage  (1d4+11)[ 12 ] 
 
Ilerien
  &lt;This is a particularly insidious darkness spell. Pilgrim, if you have means to dispel it, please, be my guest.&gt;   - came the thought of the mage seemingly unfazed by the situation.   &lt;Cur, I have an old reliable fireball prepared. Tell me when to unleash it and what sound to watch for, please. Now let's see if our enemy can be inconvenienced in the same way.&gt;  

An incantation in Evindal's voice resounded from the darkness engulfing the stairs, and thick mist has become to expand in all directions.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: move to J10.
Standard action:  obscuring mist  as beguiler. 20ft radius spread from JK1011 intersection. Might kill his invisibility if there's an affected enemy in the immediate area.
Swift action: abrupt jaunt back to H9.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  57/49 (9 HD),  Speed  30 ft
 AC  26,  Touch  16,  Flat-footed  22 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +4 shield)
 Fort  8,  Ref  10,  Will  9,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +3 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +9 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +9 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   see invisibility ,  greater mage armor ,  shield ,  heroes' feast 
 
rypt
 
 Spoiler: Rolls 
Prilgrim's Initiative:  (d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Will save #1 vs DC 18:  (d20+7)[ 11 ]  (add +1 if vs. a spell or spell-like-ability)
Will save #2 vs DC 18:  (d20+7)[ 11 ]  (add +1 if vs. a spell or spell-like-ability)

Spellcraft vs DC 23:  (d20+18)[ 29 ] 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The situation upstairs was quite a bit worse than Endymia was anticipating. It was pitch dark and already enemies were upon them. Cervena took a hit to her left, and the others reached back out through telepathy to confirm that the threat was dire.   'I can't see a damn thing in here,'   she thought.   'But at least we've found our mark.'   Still invisible, she took a step to the right and steeled herself for battle. With a silent invocation, the power of the dragon goddess began to flow through her again - empowering her muscles and bones to withstand more than mortal strain. And she called forth still more evil energies, infusing her body with a pestilential malice. She was intending to find one of her targets, and to unleash that wicked power on them when she did.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Endymia takes a 5ft step south
Swift Action: She activates Strength Devotion
Standard Action: She activates  Cause Disease , holding the charge. The disease chosen is Blinding Sickness. Fort Save DC 18
 
rypt
  &lt;"I am unable to dispel or otherwise counteract the darkness,"&gt;   Pilgrim responds.    &lt;"Rather than fight within it, should an enemy draw near, I intend to break the floor beneath its feet."&gt;  

At that, the warforged invokes a spell of quickening as he steps forward into the room.  Spinning a twin-headed warhammer within his hand, he waits for an enemy to brave the fog.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Swift action: Cast  haste .  It's not clear to me if Pilgrim can target adjacent allies within the fog and darkness, but if he can, he will also target Tommasia and Evindal.  8 round duration.

Move action: Move east to K10.

Standard action: Ready an action to attack the floor beneath an adjacent foe should he be attacked by or otherwise discern an adjacent enemy.  Weapon is adamantine and ignores hardness less than 20.
 Attack (2-handed grip, power attack for -3/+6):  (d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+12)[ 19 ]  plus 1 fire damage 
 
BelGareth
Evindal casts a spell to cover the area in a thick fog hoping it will cause the same issues the group is experiencing for their foes, while Endymia casts her own spells, ready for the foes to appear. Pilgrim also readies an attack, while Cervena attacks the darkness, and Tommasia casts her own spell, increasing her strength.

 Round 1 
It is Cur who suddenly feels the wrath of the evil Samurai, though they do not look like it now. As the oppressive darkness envelops the room, rendering everyone effectively blind, an unsettling sound begins to rise from the shadows. The air fills with the guttural growls and snarls of unseen assailants, each noise sending shivers down the spines of the adventurers.

Suddenly, from the depths of the blackness, two towering figures emerge, their monstrous forms barely discernible in the gloom. Where their heads should be, gaping maws stretch wide, filled with jagged teeth that glisten with saliva. These nightmarish creatures stand between 8 and 9 feet tall, their powerfully muscled bodies exuding an aura of raw, primal ferocity.

Wielding enormous tetsubos, the monsters advance with relentless aggression, their every step causing the floorboards to creak and groan under their immense weight. The air is thick with the stench of evil, and the oppressive atmosphere seems to close in tighter with each passing moment.

The adventurers can hear the heavy, labored breathing of the monstrous fiends, the scraping of the tetsubos against the floor as they prepare to strike. Despite their blindness, the sheer presence of these abominations is enough to send waves of terror coursing through the hearts of those who stand before them.

They appear before Cur in a blur, savagely attacking the warforged, before vanishing into the darkness once more as if they were made of the darkness.

 
 Spoiler 

This is going to hurt...

Bad guy 1:
  Attack 1  - (1d20+17)[ 25 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 19 ] 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 11 ] 
  Slam 1  - (1d20+16)[ 32 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 13 ] 
  Slam 2  - (1d20+16)[ 36 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
  Bite 1  - (1d20+11)[ 17 ] 
  Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 9 ] 
If hit, opposed Grapple   Grapple  - (1d20+21)[ 24 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 15 ] 

Bad guy 2:
  Attack 1  - (1d20+17)[ 24 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 23 ] 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+12)[ 25 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 20 ] 
  Slam 1  - (1d20+16)[ 17 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 10 ] 
  Slam 2  - (1d20+16)[ 28 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
  Bite 1  - (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 
  Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 9 ] 
If hit, opposed Grapple   Grapple  - (1d20+21)[ 38 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 8 ] 

Both vanish into the darkness regardless of grapple results.

 map 
 
LairdMaon
The moment the first strike lands on Cur, he bellows  "NOW!" 

As the following hits land, the steel beast stumbles. Staggering under the abuse, he finally falls to the floor, supported by his four large arms, until his torso caves in.

The inert body has been rendered unable to sustain Cur's life any longer.
Auranghzeb
Cervena is out of her witt as she feels Cur's psyche going away. The time was for desperate measures. She knelt and manifested a power augmenting it to the maximum she tried to make the whole ground of the floor in a cone in front of her time hop into the future.


 
 Spoiler: ooc 
Manifesting an augmented time hop up to lvl 9 so augmenting it 4 times to affect 300x4 lbs of an object and time hoping the floor in front of her.
 
BelGareth
As Cur crumples to the floor, his life powering the artificial body he inhabited slowly blinked out. Cervena cries out in dismay, and calls upon one her more powerful abilities in a flash of insight. She places her hand on the floor, and then manifests her power. The floor suddenly becomes a shimmering mist, you can all suddenly see the snarling headless monsters standing in the shadows, flashes only, as the floor turns to mist, and then...vanishes altogether.

In a moment, everything on it paused, as if gravity had no affect on them, but it just needed to catch up. With a crash, everything falls, wood creaks and snaps, benches tumble, monsters fall, and Pilgrim drops like a stone. You can hear the monsters grunt, but the best part of all this chaos, was you could finally see them, albeit, they were down a floor lying in a wreckage, and it illumination was strained at best.

 
 Spoiler 

Bad guys and Pilgrim each take   Bludgeoning  - (2d6)[ 9 ]  as they fall and are bludgeoned. You are also prone in difficult terrain.

still have 20% miss chance, but you can see them now.

 
 Spoiler: k.the planes DC 25 

These are both Kamu no Oni's
Large, brutish warriors of the shadowlands, they use their large mouths to grab foes and eat them
(not enough to look them up)

If you get higher than 25, I'll add info
 

 
Cygnia
Seeing --  feeling!  -- a warrior like Cur fall lifelessly by the unseen enemy was like a cold fist to Tommasia's gut.  The urge to rush in for a suicide charge tore at her, wanting to avenge her squadron member...

...then Cervena did something.  And the floor suddenly vanished...

...

...

...

...demons?  Giants?  Some unholy crossbreed?     Just what the hell are the hobgoblins involved with?!     No time to figure out what they were.  Tommasia could now  see  them.  Which means she could curse them...

Tommasia gestured towards one of the fiendish samurai now on the floor below and spat out the word of power, feverishly praying that the curse would take effect.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Move to H6
Activating Greater Hexblade Curse on Oni2  (DC 21 Will save, -5 to all rolls if failed)
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Several loud clangs pierced the darkness ahead. And then, of a sudden, the floor gave out underneath their enemies with a crash! The darkness finally thinned, and down below Endymia could finally see what they were up against. Two large, demonic looking monsters were on the ground down below. Their grotesque and unnatural figures were at once disturbing, like something out of her nightmares. But somehow the paladin was able to keep her edge -- until she saw what else was on the floor below. Huge metallic muscles strewn among a pile of scrap - it was Cur - or what was left of him. Endymia was shocked to her core at the sight. She had seen him in that form once before, in the battle against the ogres. It was difficult to accept that these creatures had destroyed him in a matter of seconds.

She didn't realize who cast the spell which had thrown down their opponents to the first floor in that moment. She had been meaning to thank them, but now that thought was far away - replaced with uncompromising feelings of vengeance. Endymia went back down the stairs and into the room below, still invisible. Perching up next to the stairwell's entrance, she was ready to spring on either creature if it dared to try and come back this way.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Move Action: Endymia moves to I22
Standard Action: Endymia readies an action to Bite any enemy that comes within 10 feet of her.

 
 Spoiler: STAT BLOCK 

   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human (Azurin) Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  HP  101/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  18,  Touch  9,  Flat-footed  18,  Fort  14,  Ref  7,  Will  9,  Base Attack Bonus  9
 Conditions: 
 Heroes Feast : +9 temp HP, + 1 attack (morale), +1 will (morale)
 Invisibility:  Visually undetectable, 50% miss chance, +2 to attacks and ignores dex bonus to AC
 

 
Ilerien
  Cur!..  

Evindal's silhouette emerged from the mist just in time to see Cervena... just making half of the floor in the room disappear without a trace. Two mostrous creatures were visible at last, fallen to the floor below, wambling and trying to stand up.   What even are these things?  

Tommasia uttered a familiar word and pointed at the nearest creature. They performed the same trick on more than one occasion. Tommasia's curse, a curious edge of her unusual arcane talent, made whoever affected ever so slower, weaker, less resilient. And more susceptible to his own arcane arsenal.

 - I still have one dimension door left. If all of this goes down the drain, I'll try my best to bail us out,  - he whispered and rushed closer to the edge of the chasm, frantically searching for something int the pouch on his belt. Finally he retrieved an egg and started reciting an incantation that ended on a solemn note. He crushed the egg in his fingers and exhaled - and another cloud of the same grey mist (or so it looked like) has begun to spread forward, somewhat clinging to the wall.

  &lt;Don't step into the mist along the outer wall on the first floor. It's awfully putrid.&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: move to J5
Standard action: cast  sculpted cloud of bewilderment  and place 4 10x10 cubes along the northern wall so it leaves space for someone of medium size to squeeze through, but a large creature won't be able to. The monster #2 is immediately affected. Fort save DC 21, failure means nauseated as long as the creature is in the cloud and for 1d4+1 rounds thereafter. The cloud effect lasts for 9 rounds. Evindal loses his  invisibility .
If something attacks him, he'll use his immediate action to abrupt jaunt out of harm's way.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  57/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft
 AC  27,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  22 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +4 shield, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  9,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +4 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +10 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +10 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   see invisibility ,  greater mage armor ,  shield ,  heroes' feast ,  haste 
 
rypt
For the second time tonight, Pilgrim pulls himself from a pile of debris, his immense metal form rising from a crater-like hole in the wooden floor of the building.

  &lt;"I do not see the enemy.  Only--"&gt;    The thought ends abruptly as the warforged steps forward, drawing closer to Cur's body and glimpsing for the first time the Petal's true form.  For a moment, all the seams and joints on Pilgrim's body glow softly red, as though his metal plating was but the vessel for a flame that had suddenly roared to life and then extinguished.    &lt;"The snake was forgeborn?"&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: Stand from prone.

Standard action: Move to where Cur's body fell.

I believe Pilgrim is still invisible?  I'm not sure if the fall has any effect there.  In any case, he remains shaken.  Attacks against him suffer a 30% miss chance from Blurred Alacrity.
 
BelGareth
After the floor vanishes, Tommasia summons the dark energies and curses one of the evil Oni, Endymia moves down and readies an attack, Ilerien casts another fog blanketing the area with darkness, but also with something  else , the Oni in the cloud manages to shrug it off, while Pilrim moves to Cur's body.

 Round 2 
Both Oni growl low, vanish in a whisp of shadow, and then move slowly towards Pilgrim with unerring accuracy. They both seem to shift as if their person was a mirage, and their heads morphed into giant slavering mouths on top of their shoulders, both of them loomed over pilgrim, mouths drooling with saliva as they tried to chomp down onto Pilgrim. You hear in your head a mental message that sounds like scratching on metal  *You are next.....* 
 
 Spoiler 

 Time hop counter:  2/9

Oni 1:
  Bite 1  - (1d20+16)[ 18 ] 
  Damage  - (2d6+7)[ 12 ] 
If hit, opposed   Grapple  - (1d20+21)[ 36 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6+7)[ 12 ] 

Oni 2:
(greater curse has been applied)
  Bite 1  - (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
  Damage  - (2d6+2)[ 13 ] 
If hit, opposed   Grapple  - (1d20+16)[ 35 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6+2)[ 10 ] 
 map 
 
Ilerien
Mildly annoyed by the creature not having been affected even remotely and teleporting to attack Pilgrim, Evindal stepped on the bench to have a better view of the floor below and spoke another formula, pointing his finger down and towards the monsters. As another strip of rind dissolved in his hands, the floor got extremely slippery.

  Should work better than on the mud.  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Free action: 5-ft step to J6.
Full-round action: cast  sculpted grease  (4 10-ft cubes option) expending one usage of  augmented casting  and sacrificing a 1st level beguiler spell slot. Both onis are affected, reflex DC 19 or fall prone.
As always, in case something attacks him, he'll  abrupt jaunt  out of the harm's way.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  57/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft
 AC  27,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  22 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +4 shield, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  9,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +4 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   acidic splatter (Su)  ranged touch +10 (4d6 acid) range 20 ft /  hand crossbow  +10 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   see invisibility ,  greater mage armor ,  shield ,  heroes' feast ,  haste 
 
Auranghzeb
These enemies were formidable, more planning was needed, that would have been the wiser option, but with Cur dead? disabled? and Pilgrim in imminent danger, it fell on Cervena to buy the casters some time to think.

 Sister! we need to hurt them, quickly! 


She flipped in the air with her natural levitation powers and psionically hustled next to the cursed oni attacking pilgrim. It was risky, it may spell death for her, but, was there another option? Her knives went to work with precision and purpose.


 
 Spoiler 
Swift: Hustle Psionic (If ruled as I can charge then Psionic Lion's Charge instead) to move my speed as a swift action
Full round attack: First Kukri with all mods (Base is 14 +4 vs Evil +2 from Giant Killing stance -2 TWF)  (1d20+18)[ 33 ]  damage  (1d4+18)[ 19 ]  total 19

Off hand  Kukri  (1d20+18)[ 36 ]  damage  (1d4+11)[ 15 ]   Confirmed critical for extra 14 damage =29

Second attack First kukri  (1d20+13)[ 31 ]  damage  (1d4+18)[ 21 ]   confirmed critical for extra 20 damage = 41

 TOTAL : 19, 29, 41 Slashing damage.
 
Olive_Sophia
 
  "For once I agree with you!"   came the immediate reply. Without warning, a pretty pale woman with long white hair and brilliant silver armor appeared next to Cervena. Endymia's black cape flowed through the air behind her, because she was already mid-spring! She threw herself at the demonic creature, catching onto its huge arm and viciously biting down on the unholy flesh. Her vampire-like fangs sunk in deep and delivered her toxic payload - a mixture of deadly poison and magical disease. The creature shrugged her off, and Endymia landed back on her feet with a satisfied look. Venom still dripped from those inhumanly sharp teeth. The paladin wiped the excess from her lip, then whirled her halberd forward, quickly applying a dose of something strangely fragrant on the blade. Knowing her, it couldn't have been anything good.



 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Move Action: Invisible, Endymia moves in to attack.
Free Action: Activate Divine Might (5/8 turn attempts remaining)
Standard Action: Endymia will Bite Oni 2!
Swift Action: Apply a dose of Ts'ous to her halberd.

 Factors for this attack: 
Endymia's Aura reduces the Oni's AC by 1.
Attacking from Invisibility gives +2 attack bonus, and it denies the Oni any Dexterity bonuses to AC.
If the Oni is Prone from the grease, he gets an additional -4 to AC.
The Oni has -5 on all rolls, including saves, from Tommasia's curse.

 (1d20+14)[ 23 ] 

Bludgeoning, Slashing, and Piercing Damage:  (1d8+10)[ 14 ] 
 Poison:  The Oni has to make a DC 17 Fort Save or take  (1d6)[ 2 ]  Constitution damage. He also takes hp damage as appropriate for his lowered con score ( 1xHD Damage ).

 Disease:  The Oni has to make a DC 18 Fort Save or contract Blinding Sickness, which strikes immediately, dealing  (1d4)[ 2 ]  Strength Damage. If he takes 2 or more points of Strength damage, he has to make another DC 18 Fort Save or become  permanently blinded. 
 Balance Check:  Since he's standing on grease, if he took damage, he has to make another balance check (Reflex DC 19) or fall prone, per the balance rules.

 
 Spoiler: STAT BLOCK 

   Endymia Sucourte   
Female CE Human (Azurin) Paladin of Slaughter 9,  Level  9,  HP  101/92,  Speed  30ft
 AC  18,  Touch  9,  Flat-footed  18,  Fort  14,  Ref  7,  Will  10,  Base Attack Bonus  9
 Conditions: 
 Heroes Feast : +9 temp HP, + 1 attack (morale), +1 will (morale)
 

 
Cygnia
The plan  was  to leap off in anger and charge towards the entity that the sisters were attacking.  Hopefully to finish it off before its fellow could stand up.  Tommasia even was going to cry out     FOR CUR!     as she jumped...

...

...

...maybe it was the darkness. Maybe a spare globule of  Grease  from Evindal's shaping landed on the second floor she was on or just backlash from being a hexblade, but Tommasia's take-off wasn't clean.

    "FOR CURRRAAAAARGHFAHHHHHH!!!"      Pain exploded in Tommasia's ankle as she fell.  She was pretty sure she heard a crunch as well, but there was no time to stop.  Ride the pain, ride the anger and adrenaline before the enemies had time to recover and damn her own health.  With a roar of furious agony, she brought her greatsword down in a vicious slash into the oni Cervena and Endymia were assaulting. As the blade embedded itself into the enemy, Tommasia swiftly sent out the command to activate its  Sudden Stunning  enchant.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

All rolls Discorded
Jump DC 15, rolled a 14. -5ft to speed until healed with rest.
Dunno if she lost any HP to the fall, but she's gonna get 3hp back at least from hitting Oni2 due to lesser lifedrinking crystal

Heedless Charge (from Shock Trooper) PA rolled a 23 to attack.  AC is currently 10 for the round (from -2 charging &amp; -9 PA)
Dmg is 37 (slashing)

If Oni2 is still alive, activating Sudden Stunning enchant as a Swift Action (The target then get a Reflex save (DC18 [10 + 1/2 wielder's character
level + Cha mod]) to avoid being stunned for 1d4+1 rounds.

If failed, Oni2 is  Stunned  for  (1d4+1)[ 5 ] 

If Oni2 is dead, Swift action is instead activating Greater Curse on Oni1

And Dreadful Wrath is in play: Each enemy within a 20-foot radius of you must succeed on a Will save (DC 18) or be shaken for 1 minute.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 

   Tommasia Martine   
F N Human Hexblade,  Level  9,  Init  0,  HP  100/92,  Speed  25
 AC  10,  Touch  13,  Flat-footed  21,  Fort  15,  Ref  11,  Will  13,  Base Attack Bonus  9/4
 2 handed, Sudden Stunning, Lesser Lifedrinking Crystal  Greatsword +1   +15/+9 (2d6+9, 19-20/x2)
   MW Light Crossbow (60bolts)   +12/+7 (1d8, 19-20/x2)
 Crystal of Lesser Screening  Mithral Breastplate +2   (+7 Armor, +2 Deflect, +1 Natural, +1 Misc)
 Abilities  Str 18, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 18
 Condition  Arcane Resistance (+4 to spells/Spell like effects saves)

Mettle (Ex): At 3rd level and higher, a hexblade can resist magical and unusual attacks with great willpower or fortitude. If he makes a successful Will or Fortitude save against an attack that normally would have a lesser effect on a successful save (such as any spell with a saving throw entry of Will half or Fortitude partial), he instead completely negates the effect. An unconscious or sleeping hexblade does not gain the benefit of mettle.

Endure Elements: 24/hr (from Evindal)

Bull's Strength: 3 minutes +4 Str bonus
Heroes' Feast: 24hr (becomes immune to poison for 12 hours; and gains 1d8 temporary hit points +1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10) after imbibing the nectar-like beverage that is part of the feast. The ambrosial food that is consumed grants each creature that partakes a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and immunity to fear effects for 12 hours.

Dreadful Wrath

You are terrible to behold in battle, and few foes have the heart to face you without quailing.

Benefit

When you charge, make a full attack, or cast a spell that either targets an enemy or includes an enemy in its area, you gain the frightful presence ability for that round. Each enemy within a 20-foot radius of you must succeed on a Will save (DC 10 + 1/2 your character level + your Cha modifier) or be shaken for 1 minute. Regardless of its success or failure on the saving throw, any creature exposed to this effect is immune to your frightful presence for the next 24 hours. This is an extraordinary morale effect.
 
rypt
With speed that defies his size, Pilgrim moves with remarkable ease around and between the oni's lunging maws.  Closing to within striking distance, his only answer to the creatures' threat is to raise his warhammer high overhead before slamming it downward into the wounded oni's midsection -- once, again, and again, as though driving the head of a giant nail downward into the earth.  Though the weapon the warforged wields is of an ordinary size -- perhaps even small in the hands of one so large -- the force of its impact is thunderous, the sound deep and resonant, as though Pilgrim were swinging an anvil rather than a hammer.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Free action: 5-foot step to  L11 .

Full-Round Action: Full attack vs.  Oni2 .  Adamantine warhammer wielded in 2 hands.
 Attack 1:  (d20+12)[ 13 ] 
Damage 1:  (3d6+7)[ 18 ]  bludgeoning plus 1 fire damage.
Crit Confirm 1:  (d20+12)[ 18 ] 
Miss chance 1 (low):  (1d100)[ 54 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+12)[ 24 ] 
Damage 2:  (3d6+7)[ 14 ]  bludgeoning plus 1 fire damage.
Crit Confirm 2:  (d20+12)[ 20 ] 
Miss chance 2 (low):  (1d100)[ 75 ] 

Attack 3:  [roll]d20+7/roll]  [ 17 ] (see Discord)
Damage 3:  (3d6+7)[ 19 ]  bludgeoning plus 1 fire damage.
Crit Confirm 3:  (d20+7)[ 21 ] 
Miss chance 3 (low):  (1d100)[ 12 ]  
 
BelGareth
Evindal sculpts another spell, and lays down a layer of grease under both of the Kamu no Oni's, the closest one slips and smacks the ground with it's great bulk, and then the rest of the team springs upon it like a pack of wolves: Cervena with her blurring blades, manages to bite into the Oni's hide several times, causing it to leak violet blood, Endymia show's her versatility and bites with her mouth dripping with poison and a spell is released unto the Oni, Tommasia takes the moment to leap from the second story to strike at the prone beast, but lands awkwardly, spraining her ankle, the attack is a solid one however. And then Prilgrim tries his best to fit his style with the team, striking at the prone Oni for good measure.

Alarmingly, the Oni is still not dead, it's eyes were wide with pure rage, and you can all tell it's hide is resistant to all of your attacks, not only that, but it seems to be healing before your eyes!

 Round 3 
In a puff of smoke, both Oni vanish, the hurt one appears next to Evindal! as the other appears in the corner below the existing floor and near Pilgrim.

 
 Spoiler 

Oni 2 seemed to ignore the poison, and saved on the 2nd save for Blinding sickness

 Time hop counter:  3/9

Oni 2:
Vs Evindal
  Attack 1  - (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+3)[ 11 ] 
   Attack 2  - (1d20+6)[ 7 ]  Miss
  Damage  - (2d8+2)[ 14 ]  
  Slam 1  - (1d20+10)[ 22 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+1)[ 7 ] 
  Slam 2  - (1d20+10)[ 21 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+1)[ 4 ] 
   Bite 1  - (1d20+5)[ 6 ]  Miss
  Damage  - (2d6-3)[ 1 ] 
If hit, opposed   Grapple  - (1d20+15)[ 29 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6-3)[ -1 ]  

Oni 1:
Vs Pilgrim
   Attack 1  - (1d20+17)[ 37 ]  Potential Crit
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 20 ] 
 Crit Confirm  - (1d20+17)[ 37 ]
 Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 20 ] 
  Attack 2  - (1d20+12)[ 15 ] 
  Damage  - (2d8+8)[ 16 ] 
  Slam 1  - (1d20+16)[ 25 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 14 ] 
  Slam 2  - (1d20+16)[ 26 ] 
  Damage  - (1d8+7)[ 15 ] 
  Bite 1  - (1d20+11)[ 26 ] 
  Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 14 ] 
If hit, opposed   Grapple  - (1d20+21)[ 36 ] , if successful take an additional   Damage  - (2d6+3)[ 10 ] 
 map 
 
Auranghzeb
The Oni vanished to reappear next to Evindal, Cervena needed to protect the mage, he was the only one with the tools to overcome these creatures regeneration. Or so thought Cervena. She hustled and levitated to the floor next to the Oni and went into her routine combo trying to inflict enough damage for the Oni to switch it's attention to her, she held a surprise for it.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Swift: Manifesting Hustle to move next to the creature (70'  hasted movement speed should be enough to move 10' and then levitate to that spot.)

Full attack  main hand kukri 1 (1d20+19)[ 25 ]  damage  (1d4+18)[ 21 ]  HIT
main hand kukri HASTED (1d20+19)[ 23 ]  damage  (1d4+18)[ 20 ]  HIT
main hand kukri 2 (1d20+14)[ 32 ]  damage  (1d4+18)[ 21 ]  MISSED
Off hand kukri  (1d20+19)[ 26 ]  damage  (1d4+11)[ 15 ]  HIT
 
BelGareth
Cervena moves up to the the Oni that launched an ineffectual attack against Evindal, she tanks the attack that comes her way, taking the damage as part of the move, she then slashes and cuts the Oni before her like it was a Beast Roast at Orchant time, ichor and violet blood flies everywhere, and the iron taste of viscera permeates the area around you.

The Oni's eyes go wide with sudden clarity of mind, it realizes whats happening, but the attacks were so brutal, it barely had time before it's guts were slithering out onto the nice lacquered floor.

 
 Spoiler 

It's dead.
 
Ilerien
The elf ducked the moment the monstrous creature appeared in front of him, and even then the enormous club almost touched his head. A split second later, and it would surely be a split second later if not for the very timely enchancement courtesy of Pilgrim, and... The assault continued from different angles, and Evindal danced around every strike, shoving his invisible force shield into the creature's gaping and very toothy maw after it, presumably frustrated, tried to bite him in half.

And at that moment it shuddered - once, twice, more, the monster's unnaturally colored blood splashing out of the mist. And then it sunk to the floor, life fleeing its mostrous body.

  &lt;You've practically shredded it, and in a very timely manner. Thank you.&gt;  

The mage traced a spiral in the air with his index finger, reciting another incantation, his voice taking a deep and resonant undertone. The spell's somatic component ended with an abrupt throwing motion, and a greenish orb flew rapidly towards the remaining entity. He watched it go for a moment and carefully stepped down from the bench and into the remaining mist, moving along the wall.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Standard action: cast  orb of acid  on the Oni 1. Ranged touch:
Miss chance (miss is lower, see discord) (1d100)[ 90 ]
To hit  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Damage  (10d6)[ 27 ]  acid
Crit confirmation (see discord) (1d20+10)[ 16 ]
Crit damage (see discord) (10d6)[ 40 ], i.e.  67  if confirmed.
Fort DC=22 or sickened for 1 round.

Move action: move around the corpse to H9.
 

 
 Spoiler: Statblock 
   Evindal Cairen   
Male grey elf beguiler 2 / wizard 3 / ultimate magus 4
N Medium humanoid (elf)
 Init  8,  Senses  low-light vision, Listen 3, Spot 3
 HP  57/49 (9 HD),  Speed  60 ft
 AC  27,  Touch  17,  Flat-footed  22 (+4 Dex, +6 armor, +2 deflection, +4 shield, +1 dodge)
 Fort  8,  Ref  11,  Will  9,  BAB  4,  Grapple  -2
 Melee   dagger  +4 (1d4-2/19-20)
 Ranged   hand crossbow  +10 (1d4/19-20)
 Abilities  Str 6, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 8, Cha 12
 Spellcasting  wizard CL 9th DC 17+, beguiler CL 10th DC 17+ (+1 CL [Acid], +1 DC Conj, +1 DC vs flat-footed)
 Conditions &amp; effects   see invisibility ,  greater mage armor ,  shield ,  heroes' feast ,  haste 
 
rypt
The upward blow from the oni strikes Pilgrim with such force that the massive warforged practically folds around the impact, rising momentarily off his feet before landing back down on the floor.  Pilgrim's left side is now visibly misshapen, a large dent in his metal plating revealing a multitude of splintered wooden fibers underneath.

  &lt;"I cannot sustain another such blow,"&gt;   The warforged relays matter-of-factly.    &lt;"I will do all I can before I am disabled."&gt;  

As Pilgrim finds his footing, the metal of the warforged's body begins to pulse with magical energy.  The pulses are intermittent at first, but they rapidly grow in both frequency and intensity as the warforged moves to close the gap with the remaining oni.  So great is the quantity of arcane energy surging through his body that Pilgrim's plating audibly groans under the strain.  He draws back his warhammer, and with a roar of effort, channels that energy into a series of spectacularly destructive blows.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Free action: 5-foot step to  J24 .

Free action: Activate Arcane Strike on Pilgrim's warhammer, expending  metal melt ,  rebirth of iron ,  bands of steel ,  combust ,  dragoneye rune ,  repair moderate damage ,  unseen crafter ,  cutting hand ,  enduring elements ,  magecraft  and  shield .  This is a total of 23 spell levels.  The bonus to attacks is +4, the bonus to damage is +23d4.

Full around action: Full attack Oni 1.
 Attack 1:  (d20+16)[ 31 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 18 ]  bludgeoning plus  1  fire plus  (23d4)[ 48 ]  bludgeoning
Crit confirm:  (d20+16)[ 30 ] 
Miss chance (low misses):  (d100)[ 66 ] 

Attack 2:  (d20+16)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 14 ]  bludgeoning plus  1  fire plus  (23d4)[ 59 ]  bludgeoning
Crit confirm:  (d20+16)[ 24 ] 
Miss chance (low misses):  (d100)[ 50 ] 

Attack 3:  (d20+11)[ 23 ] 
Damage:  (3d6+7)[ 17 ]  bludgeoning plus  1  fire plus  (23d4)[ 52 ]  bludgeoning
Crit confirm:  (d20+16)[ 25 ] 
Miss chance (low misses):  (d100)[ 56 ]  
 
Cygnia
    &lt;Not if I have anything to say about it...&gt;      Tommasia limped over as fast as she could over to the warforged's side.  They already lost Cur -- they weren't going to lose Pilgrim too. As Tommasia raised her blade, she got ready to inflict another curse upon the last oni...

...and it was over in an eyeblink as the rest of the squad unleashed their aggression upon the enemy.

Tommasia allowed herself a sigh of relief as she activated her healing belt at full charge on Pilgrim.

 (4d8)[ 17 ]  HP returned to Pilgrim.
Olive_Sophia
 
  &lt;"Good work,&gt;"   Endymia thought as the second oni fell. Pilgrim's display of concentrated magic was nothing short of amazing. Delivering a few massive blows with that power had been enough to fell a creature just like the other they'd been struggling against. Just in the nick of time, too - the warforged was looking battered and dented otherwise. Endymia approached him and took a closer look at his foe's fallen body. It too was broken and partially singed. But considering its strange anatomy, one couldn't be too certain. Endymia stomped her plated boot down hard on what was left of the creature's midsection before planning her next move.

  &lt;"I still have a bit of healing left. Come to me if you are injured."&gt;   In truth her thoughts were a bit more directed than that. Was Cervena okay? The paladin had already witnessed her take one beating today, and it was hard to tell how many injuries she had sustained in the darkness. But she didn't let her concern slip, instead directing her next thoughts to professional matters.   &lt;"Now where is the captain? I thought for sure he'd be here. Has anyone set eyes on him?"&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move Action: Move to I24
Standard Action: She will attack the downed Oni with her Slam attack

The Oni is helpless and thus has its Dex treated as 0. (Usually around -5 to AC) It also has -1 AC from Endymia's Aura.
Endymia gets +4 to attack a helpless target in melee.
Power Attacking for 7

 Slam Attack:   (1d20+14)[ 32 ] 
 Bludgeoning Damage:   (1d8+10)[ 11 ] 
 Miss Chance (Low Misses) :  (1d100)[ 69 ] 
 
 Spoiler: In Case of Crit 

 Crit Confirm:   (1d20+14)[ 15 ] 
 Bludgeoning Damage:   (1d8+10)[ 13 ] 
 

 
Cygnia
    &lt;Might be the onis were the one running the whole thing...maybe with some illusionary leader?  Ev, is there any evidence that there was a third?&gt;      Tommasia grimaced, limping towards Cur's corpse.  Whatever the warforged had seen had died with him.  She shook her head.      &lt;We can't stay here much longer, but I don't want to leave Cur's body with the enemy!&gt;    
Ilerien
Evindal's response chimed in immediately.

  &lt;There was no indication of our target apart from Cur's warning. My divination would've detected him if he were invisible or ethereal, so I must conclude he was using neither to conceal himself. There are ways to circumvent such divinations, but those are quite obscure.
I wouldn't want to leave him here as well. Does anyone possess a bag of holding of enough capacity?&gt;  
BelGareth
 Round 4 

Both Oni's lie dead on the floor, their guts slipping out onto the floor stinking the whole place up with a strange metallic taste similar to copper. It seemed to never end as it slowly slopped out of their bellies, viscera slid everywhere on the polished floors.

A few of you managed to hear a commotion outside, muted sounds as if shouting and a general clamor of movement.

What do you do?

 
 Spoiler 

Still in rounds, and those who hit a listen DC 20 hear the above.

 Time hop counter:   4/9
 Map 
 
Olive_Sophia
 
  &lt;"Hold it. I hear some ruckus outside... it's like the troops are stirring."&gt;   The paladin gritted her teeth. They'd have their work cut out for them if they ended up having to fight through the whole encampment to escape.   &lt;"We need to wrap this up and get out of here!"&gt;   Endymia took another skeptical look at the felled oni at her feet. She decided to grab its weapon while she still had a moment to breathe. It had a strange style, but its brutal purpose was obvious -- she loved it. She packed the tetsubō longways in her pack and then readied herself for whatever came next.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move Action: Pick up Tetsubo
Standard-&gt;Move Action: Store Tetsubo in pack
5ft step north
 
Auranghzeb
 We need to retrieve any evidence, that includes Cur's body. Who can pick it up or teleport it?

 


Then she ask Ilerien standing next to her.

 Can you teleport me outside to the building's roof? aim high, I can levitate from there. And be mindful the time loop I created will soon end, I have never time hopped a section of a building, I'm not sure what will happen.  
Ilerien
Evindal sighs audibly. Even his mental voice "sounds" weary - and a little disappointed, maybe in himself.

  &lt;Sadly, I'm almost tapped out for today. I have only one spell capable of such a feat left, and even then I'd have to teleport with you - magical translocation for significant distances becomes far more dangerous and unpredictable in case the spellcaster isn't travelling along, hence the conventional formula I use doesn't even account for it. In any case, it's our last means of immediate escape beyond the boundaries of the camp, unless esteemed Pilgrim here doesn't possess another one. Are you sure? Would the ability to propel yourself in the air as opposed to simple levitation suffice?
Otherwise, I'd suggest getting out of here to recuperate and formulate another plan. Preferrably with more preliminary reconnaisance involved.&gt;  
Cygnia
    &lt;We still have the Alter Self potions -- even Cur should have one on his body we can use for Pilgrim.  Quaff them to appear as hobgoblins while carrying Cur's corpse.  That should buy us some time to get to a more secure location here.&gt;     suggested Tommasia.
rypt
Pilgrim steps over to Cur's body, bends down, then heaves the mangled remains of the fallen warforged up onto his shoulder.    &lt;"I am able to carry Cur's body"&gt;   -- he looks towards Evindal --   &lt;"but I am unable to teleport us from the camp.  Such a spell is not known to me."&gt;  
BelGareth
 Round 5 

As you discuss the sound is now obvious to all, and is slowly becoming a low roar.

 
 Spoiler 

 Time hop counter:   5/9
 Map 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The thought of transforming into one of those ugly hobgoblins struck a nerve with Endymia, so she didn't address it immediately, even though it seemed like a decent plan.   &lt;"There's not much time. Let's head out the back door and make our escape. Keep your eyes peeled. We might still have a chance to assassinate the captain."&gt;   The paladin walked around the corner and back the way they had come in, almost to the door. What in the world was that noise? The thrill of battle still hadn't worn off for her yet, and that sound was only adding to the feeling of heightened anxiety.   &lt;"But Evindal - please be ready with that spell in case things get dicey out there."&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Double Move to K28
 
BelGareth
 Round 6 

Your hesitation brings you closer to destiny, the dull roar grows, you can hear the clang of arms and armor, the dull thuds of feet hitting mud and the general sound of an army mustering.

 
 Spoiler 

 Time hop counter:   6/9
 Map 
 
LairdMaon
For a flash of a moment, a warforged-sized patch of sky ripples, and Disject appears thirty feet above the roof of the building that the Rose Petals are in. As he falls, he turns out into a dive, timing his impact with the roof to meet with a strike from his adamantine blade.

 
BelGareth
 Round 6 

With a loud crash, your strike, accelerated by your fall smashes through the clay tiles through the wooden beams. The impact stalls your fall and you manage to land to avoid most of the damage. With a puff of dust and debris, Disject is suddenly among you all.

 
 Spoiler 

Succesful Jump check to arrest your fall, Disject takes [ 6 ] damage
 Time hop counter:   6/9
 Map 
 
rypt
Pilgrim turns instinctively to protect Cur's remains from the shower of debris that rains in the aftermath of Disject's arrival.  Raising his warhammer to the newcomer, he draws upon what little magic he yet retains to repair his damaged body, readying himself to face a new threat.  Then, for the first time since joining the others, he speaks aloud.    "Identify yourself.  State your intentions or be destroyed."    Pilgrim's voice is cold, artificial, and almost entirely without inflection.  It is unmistakably the voice of a construct, and a truly old one at that.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Pilgrim will cast  repair critical damage  on himself, healing  (4d8+8)[ 22 ] 
 
Auranghzeb
 SO much for discretion  thought an irritated Cervena.

 Let me guess, you are yet another petal. We are becoming a crowd. Dust yourself up and be useful. We may have to do an exit. 

She blurted as she levitated towards the warforged-sized hole in the roof.

 Well, may be you already did something useful. 

Once above the roof, she scouted around an crouched on the rooftiles.
BelGareth
 Round 6 

Cervena levitates through the massive hole Disject made coming into the building, now one of you slowly edges their way  out  of the building, she crests the hole and see's an army int eh throws of mustering, troopers running around in groups of 2-3, tents were being dismantled and packed up, wagon trains were pulled out, arms and equipment stacked for transport, whole platoons were standing in formation in several areas, Sub-commanders yelling in different tones of agitation and anger. The night was lit up by a thousand torches, giving the feeling that the camp was on fire, the glow made it easy to see.

And Disject's entrance did not go unnoticed, you see soldiers pointing at the hole, pointing at  you . Yells start to erupt, soldiers begin to run, and the building begins to be surrounded by the tepid troops.

You are surrounded.

 
 Spoiler 

Succesful Jump check to arrest your fall, Disject takes [ 6 ] damage
 Time hop counter:   6/9
 Map 
 
Olive_Sophia
 

Endymia's hesitant hand reached towards the door, but in that moment the newcomer blasted through the roof in the main hall. And outside it sounded like soldiers were getting closer.   "Oh, great,"   the white-haired woman mumbled to herself. Frustration was building inside of her as the enemy seemed to be rallying, and the petals were losing initiative. She marched back down the hall and rejoined the others with an unhappy mien.   &lt;"Time's up,"&gt;   she transmitted.   &lt;"Let's get out of here.&gt;"  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Double Move to I23
 
Cygnia
    &lt;"Agreed..."&gt;     Tommasia mentally growled.  To say the newcomer's arrival was "unsubtle" was an insult to any thinking being.  And, of course, it did NOTHING to assuage Tommasia's mistrust of the Sergeant's intentions.     Invisibility or Alter Self might have been doable for our escape, but THIS?!  Why didn't the Sergeant send a brass band and a Dancing Lights display while he was at it?!   
    &lt;"Ev, get us out of here -- please!"&gt;    
LairdMaon
 "Bad news, it's getting ugly out there. Good news, I've got a device that will get us out of here. Bad news again, I'm pretty sure we have to be outside to use it. I don't know the state of the mission, except that you guys need an out."  Disject turns his head and lifts the cloth-like chain weave on his neck, displaying an intricate red rose normally hidden on his neck.  "I'm called Disject, and I've been assigned to your team." 
Ilerien
  &lt;That was the idea. Though I haven't anticipated the arrival of another petal. And here I thought petals were supposed to land silently,&gt;   - the mage responded as dryly as their mental communication allowed and descended the stairs.

  &lt;We shouldn't linger anymore indeed. Pilgrim, please, pick up Cur's body, we don't want to leave him for whatever unholy business the hobgoblins may be up to. Endymia, you do possess one of the sergent's invisibility potions, right?&gt;  

Evindal took another owl feather out of his belt pouch and uttered a familiar arcane formula. The feather crumbled into dust in his hand, and a gentle gust blew it towards the white knight.

  &lt;I'll retrieve another one for Cervena in a moment - her invisibility is short-lived. You should be able to fly now, drink your potion, pass another one to Cervena and, please, go in the direction of the spot we teleported from, we'll rendezvous there. Tommasia, Pilgrim, step closer to me and give me your hands - I'll apply another dimension door for us and our newcomer. Speaking of the newcomer...&gt;   - the elf switched to normal speech.   - Disject, we aren't going to make it outside without a judicious application of the arcane. Step closer to me, place a hand on my shoulder and await translocation. We'll fill you in on the mission after making it to relative safety. Amrynn, dear, you should hover next to me as well,   - Evindal addressed the still invisible wisp.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: run to J23.
Standard action: cast  fly  on Endymia.
 
Olive_Sophia
 
  "What?!"   was Endymia's only reply at first, as she realized that she wouldn't be included in his teleportation spell. She was being asked to find her own way out of this. The paladin stared at him while she sorted her feelings. Before Evindal had seemed like a good agent - a practical, somewhat quiet man that she could often agree with; not that she had thought of him that much. She couldn't believe she was choosing to save the newcomer over her, after she had fought by his side. Looking at the frail wizard now, she felt like balling him up and shoving him in a barrel - just like hazing an out-of-line grunt in the old city gang. But this wasn't the old city. The situation was life or death.

  "Fine. But you'll pour my drinks tonight, if I make it out of this."   She took the potion in hand and eyed the small hole above.
BelGareth
 Round 7 

The noise outside begins to increase, and then there are bangs on the wooden doors. Shouts for the General, shouts of concern and warning, they were obviously tepid about storming his headquarters. But how long would that hold them back?

 
 Spoiler 

 Time hop counter:   7/9
 Map 
 
Cygnia
Sword in one hand, Tommasia held out her other hand for the mage, feeling all too well the metaphorical grains in the hourglass draining away.  Time was NOT on their side....
rypt
  "Then I welcome you, Disject."    Pilgrim lowers his weapon and turns to Evindal so that the elf can see Cur's remains heaped upon his shoulder.    &lt;"It is already done."&gt;  

He then looks to Endymia, and releasing a burst of magical energy, infuses the knight and the others nearby with preternatural speed.    &lt;"Even should they see you, they will not catch you."&gt;  

Pilgrim reaches out and places one of his massive metal hands on Evindal's shoulder.    &lt;"Tell me when your spell is ready and I will set fire to this building."&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Swift action: Pilgrim will cast  haste  on everyone on the first floor.  If Cervena is visible and within range, he will cast it on her as well.

Standard action: Ready an action to cast  firestride exhalation  on Evindal's signal, electing not to move within the spell's area.  He will direct it towards a wall, avoiding allies.  It deals  (8d6)[ 35 ]  fire damage in a 30 ft. cone.
 
LairdMaon
Disject lifts his manople to a ready position and steps close to Evindal. As he rests his hand on the man's shoulder, he asks,  "So, uh, what's your name? And the rest of you, same question. My briefing wasn't  that  great." 
Olive_Sophia
 

The paladin's confidence was rising with each new spell that was placed upon her. She even managed a smile.   "Thanks, Pilgrim."  

Turning to Disject, she only replied   "We'll talk later."   She was already turning back the translucent potion. And with that, her well-formed features and silver armor disappeared from sight.

Starting with a hop, Endymia quickly flew out the hole in the roof. From there she could see her sister crouching low and the hobgoblin soldiers gathering by the door.   &lt;"Cervena, it's me. The others are splitting. Why don't you drink an invisibility potion and fly back to camp with me?"&gt;  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Standard Action: Drink Potion of Invisibility
Move Action: Fly out the hole in the roof. With Haste she has 120ft of movement, but it costs double to ascend. She should still clear the roof easily.
 
Cygnia
   "Tommasia.  He's Evindal,"    said the mercenary, gesturing towards the mage.  Disjunct's comment about not being "well-briefed" wasn't encouraging in the slightest.  Though, at this point, Tommasia shouldn't have been at all surprised.
Ilerien
  - Deal,   - said the elf and handed Endymia two vials full of transparent liquid procured from his haversack.   - I have utmost confidence in both of you.  
  - Now, let's get out of here unless anybody minds. Pilgrim, you're free to torch the surroundings,   - Evindal nodded to the warforged and started reciting his incantation.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Move action: produce the potions from the haversack.
Standard action:  dimension door  back to the spot he originally teleported everyone from. We can do it as a ready action (after Pilgrim casts his spell), but dunno how much sense does it make if we don't follow the initiative order.
 
BelGareth
 Round 8 

Evindal recites the incantation for the spell, but nothing happens.

 
 Spoiler 

restructuring init for actions is perfectly fine.

 Time hop counter:   8/9
 Map 
 
rypt
At Evindal's signal, Pilgrim begins to glow like a giant metal lantern, the light of a roaring flame shining through the joints and seams that separate the pieces of his armored plating.  He turns to the nearby wall, opens his mouth, and the flame pours forth, like a faucet of fire, flooding across the floor and up the walls.
BelGareth
The blast roars against the wooden walls, coiling and rolling at the same spot with nowhere to go, in a split second, the wood buckles, and bursts outwards. The frame blackened and consumed by fire, still intact, but severely damaged, the planking was not so lucky, and completely blew out, revealing the camp to the inside of the building with pieces of burning shrapnel all over the ground.

You all suddenly get a mental missive in your heads:  &lt;GET OUT NOW!&gt; 
LairdMaon
 "Follow me!"  Disject calls out, before charging through the flaming hole. Once more, he leads with his adamantine blade to finish the path out of the building.
Cygnia
Was that Hackford who yelled at them mentally? No time to think.  Tommasia ran as fast as she could after Disjunct, ignoring every scream of pain from her still-injured ankle.
rypt
Pilgrim thunders after Disject, the wooden floor cracking beneath every footfall bearing the combined weight of two massive warforged.  Burdened as he is by Cur's body, he moves noticeably slower than he had before, but still faster than something so large rightly should.
Auranghzeb
Round 7:  This is going badly 
 Sister, we need to rush them out! 


Cervena needed more mobility, she crouched low on the rooftop and manifested the power to fly, then flew to the adjacent building.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Manifesting Fly, Psionic.
 



Round 8: As the others came blasting through the wall, Cervena tried to be surgical, she surveyed the closest group of enemies trying to take them out swiftly.

 
 Spoiler: Action 
SWIFT: Psionic Lion's Charge
FULLROUND Charge vs a group of enemies in reach.

mainhand 1st  (1d20+21)[ 23 ]  Damage  (1d4+11)[ 12 ] 

offhand   (1d20+19)[ 22 ]  Damage  (1d4+7)[ 11 ] 

mainhand 2nd  (1d20+16)[ 31 ]   Damage  (1d4+11)[ 14 ] 

Mainhand haste  (1d20+21)[ 22 ]   Damage  (1d4+11)[ 14 ] 
 
Olive_Sophia
 
  'What the...?'   Endymia thought as she saw the other petals frantically rushing through a new hole in the burning wall. Somehow, it seemed, the teleport hadn't worked. Something was wrong. Cervena was off in an instant, fighting to protect them. The paladin flew after her, breaking off to rejoin the party rather than attacking the soldiers. Still invisible, she flew just above them, her halberd ready.   &lt;"Don't fret, I'm here with you,&gt;"   came the message over their telepathic link. How were they going to get out of this one, she wondered?


 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Move: Rejoin the party
Standard: Ready an action to attack any enemy that approaches the party with her halberd.
 
Ilerien
  &lt;I feel stupid. Something is blocking teleportation inside the building.&gt;   - Evindal said into their telepathic connection, rushing after the others.
BelGareth
 The story of the intrepid heroes continues here 