Rise of the Runelords Table 2 (Closed)

Game Master ElegantlyWasted

It is, I only assume it has some importantace cause it was hidden beneath the bed and damaged. That implies some use, and mending can restore it to how it once was. I just have the urge to check and make sure with a mending spell. I am still very wary of Pazuzu though xD

Praetor looks to those who had taken things from the demonic house, nodding in suggestion, but he leaves the final decisions to them. Once they have handed over any items to be destroyed (or kept them), he says in monotone "There is more to discuss, loose ends that need to be tied up, but I could use some time to...digest. I am not feeling myself."

I just remembered that my new masterwork sword is being created, and I would like to pick that up this afternoon or tomorrow morning (as soon as it's ready)

The paladin's stomach rumbles and his mind travels to the delicious food served at the Rusty Dragon.

"Forgive me for my foul mood. This day has taken my warmth from me." He smiles and tries to seem his old self. "Tonight, my friends, we shall feast. All you care to eat and drink, on me. We will fill with warmth and forget the evil we faced today. Father Zantus, Sheriff Hemlock, it would please me if you join us at the Rusty Dragon."

As the others decide what to do with their cursed objects Ren slinks away back into the sunlight.

But the crowed town offers her no relief from the constant memories that play out in her head. Men of town take on a sinister cast as Rippers face and beating replay over and over in her mind.

I need to get away from all these people, I need to do something... Something to keep me busy... Mistress Ameiko! I can learn her cooking skills!

Ren sets off at a quick pace and ends up almost running back to the inn. There she rushes through the common room and up to her room. There she quickly divests herself of all her adventuring gear, until she stands in only her raged linen over-shirt, worn pants and has one small dagger tucked behind her rope belt.

She hurried back downstairs, and slips into the kitchen, hoping to find Ameiko working on the nights meal. Seeing her there she asks:
Mistress Ameiko, can I help you prepare tonight's meal? You did offer to show me how you cook, and I could really use something to work on right now.

Once the items have been handed over to the keeping of Priest, Lackspell wanders out into the light of day again, content to leave the others to organize and collect whatever payment the church may offer. Although he intends to head back to the Rusty Dragon, he finds himself taking a circuitous route, wandering around the town in a long loop, breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the sunlight. Although he doesn't stop to talk to anyone he finds the sight of the various townsfolk going about their normal daily business at first puzzling

Don't they know what is going on all around them? he thinks to himself. How can they be so blind, so oblivious?

But then, as his meanderings bring him closer to the inn he starts to find it encouraging.

Perhaps... perhaps this is the why of it... why people like Praetor take up the mantle of hero and march themselves into the dark places of the world. So that everyone else can carry on, happy and oblivious. Perhaps that's what carries them through the horror of places like the island. But could I? I was so scared, so very scared. If Ren hadn't have been there to help me, I think I would have fled. I might not be able to do this. But then, I know now, don't I? I can't very well go back to being oblivious and I certainly don't want to go back to being terrified ... Perhaps I can try... I can see the good that can be done here. Maybe that will be enough.

By the time he gets back to the Rusty Dragon, he has calmed considerably and is in a frame of mind to start thinking about his work again. So, as soon as he arrives he heads up to his room and starts tinkering on some minor alchemical experiments he has on the go, losing himself in his books and his work.

Okay, now I'm crazy. Varak, you do have that small book from the boy, yes. Mending won't fix it, though, not in a way that would be helpful.

From giving the book and the knife, your party is awarded 2,500 gold pieces.

Also, you guys have gotten enough XP to level up! Go ahead and level up to 2.

Haha my bad, just being thorough xD

After the burial of the boy and the consulting with the priedts Arkon leaves the church and goes to his cabin and from there for a run/commune with nature in the woods.

Arkon runs through the woods with the much faster Orz literally running rings around him. "Thankyou Gozreh for the wonders if nature and allowing me to see them.

He eventually returns to his cabin for the night.

Lvl 2! Celebration on Praetor tonight!! ;)

After the artifacts are handed over and people are start to disperse from the chapel, Chrona sees herself out as well. She makes a direct course for the Inn, walking at a brisk yet still normal pace with her arms loosely wrapped around herself.
'Time to wash it all away..'

Back at the Inn she asks about the accommodations for a hot bath. If one is available that night she will soak long in it, using her talents with fire to keep it at a temperature that would be uncomfortable for most and cause steam to pour out and fill adjoining rooms.

Once the relaxation is done, Chrona dresses in her casual tank and long skirt and go to the resturant/bar area. She orders a whiskey neat and dried meat, then she sits before the fireplace and smoke.

Following their conversation, Praetor heads to the blacksmith's armory to pick up his masterwork greatsword and sell his previous blade.

When that is finished, Praetor heads to the Rusty Dragon. Once inside, he stops at the bar and speaks to Ameiko. "Greetings, friend. I would like to cover the tab this evening for my friends Chrona, Arkon, Varak, Ren, Lackspell, sheriff Hemlock, father Zantus, and you of course. We have had a day that begs to be forgotten, and will require a feast fit for a king. Please do join us if you find the time."

Praetor lays 25 gold pieces on the bar for Ameiko. "This should get you started. I will also require a hot bath, and a plate of food for the prisoner on my behalf. Extra mustard."

Back in his room, Praetor removes his armor then soaks in his bath until the water loses its heat. Dressed again, he equips only his short sword and new masterwork greatsword, then heads down to the dining hall in search of the others.

GM Wasted, please let me know whatever the final cost is for the evening once all is said and done.

After her chance to do some cooking and she gets her gold, Ren is going to realize she has more gold then she has ever seen in one spot.

So GM Wasted, It's SHOPPING TIME! Can she find a spot(s) to get:
masterwork Studded Leather Armor,
a Silver dagger
A Cold Iron Dagger
a Wrist Sheath
The Jewelry she was looking for before (Hair Accessories, Broach and necklace, maybe a pair of earrings)
basic Makeup kit (not looking for a full fledged disguise kit, just some basics to highlight what she has, when needed.)

In addition she wants to sell both of her short swords, and her current studded leather armor.

Finally of course she will pick up her new Outfits from the tailor (courtier's and travelers)

Yeah, you can shop and get whatever you like! Praetor, the total comes to only 15 gold for a tasty feast for all of you.

The night passes pleasantly, with the Sheriff and Father Zantus regaling you with stories of their past exploits. Ameiko joins you as well. Zantus and Hemlock gently press Ameiko about her adventuring past, but she merely smiles and shrugs and says that the past should stay where it is.

The next morning, you have two letters. One is from Broderus Quint. He runs the local school, and some of the children have been having a very difficult time coping after the Goblin attack. Broderus has requested perhaps a visit from the heroes, to regale them with the tale of how they valiantly stopped the Goblin attack to set their minds at ease.

The second letter is from Aldern Foxglove. He is ready to receive you any time today or tomorrow. Attached is a letter of credit, good for renting horses at the stables. The letter contains directions to Foxglove Manor, which is about an hour's ride outside of Sandpoint.

Arkon will go searching for a seller to buy some chain shirt barding for Orz Small dinosaur .. *2 cost.. 1\2 weight

In a rare turn of events, Praetor does not drink any alcohol during their feast. He eats more than his share and finds a juice cocktail mixture of Ameiko's making from which he drinks nearly a gallon. The sugar makes him giddy and he giggles at the stories when they are funny, gasps when they are frightful.

That night he dreams Delarra is in the bed with him.

The next morning he rises before the sun and goes about his routine. First he grooms himself, clips his nails, shaves, then washes his neck, face and hands with a cloth and bowl of water. Next he watches the sunrise in all its splendor. Then he sharpens his blades with a whetstone, oils them, then cleans and oils his armor. After that he takes a walk to the stables and feeds his horse some fruit and vegetables from last night's feast and tips the stable boy a gold piece for taking good care of him. "Brush his coat, re-shoe him, and oil my saddle and leathers please."

When the shops open around town, Praetor purchases a healer's Kit, two potions of cure light wounds and a grooming kit.

He returns to the Rusty Dragon for breakfast and is sure thank Ameiko for an outstanding feast and her hospitality the past few days.

Lackspell's shopping list will be as follows

• Masterwork Studded Leather Armor
• Cold Iron Light Mace
• Formula Alembic
• 10 Silver tipped crossbow bolts
• Adventurer's Sash

Unlike Ren, it won't occur to him to sell his old gear, so his original mace and armor will just be shoved in a corner in his room (what a bloke)

Lackspell comes down from his room and joins the rest of the group rather late. He is clearly more relaxed than he was when last everyone saw him, but there is also an undercurrent of excitement in his demeanour. He joins the group and eats well, though not as heartily as some. Although he seems to be enjoying the company of the group, he is obviously a little distracted. He orders a small glass of wine to have with his meal, the first time any of the group have seen him do so. However he only drinks half of it and leaves the rest behind when a little while after completing his meal, he rises and excusing himself, returns to his room, stating only that 'he has work to finish'

Varak would join the others in the morning, having finished his prayer and rituals for his spellcasting earlier when the sun had risen. He joined the others with a smile, confident that while their journey through the haunted ritual hadn't been the path they originally sought, it would still a rightful cleansing and now the next could path could be explored. He helped himself that morning buy purchasing cooked fish from Ameiko, wanting to help out for all the kindness that had been offered. It was the mention of the two letters that intrigued him, nodding as he devoured his fish at them. He knew their firecracker Crona would wish to see Foxglove again, the priest though was interested in visiting the young humans. He hoped to quell their fears of both goblin and his kind alike. Who knew? Perhaps even he would be lucky enough to find lord Apsu another shining knight amongst the young ones.

You can buy say cold iron crossbow bolts and use a silver blanch on the arrows to make them do double duty.. well some play it that way.

While eating breakfast, Ameiko shows Praetor the letters. He is groomed and ready to meet Foxglove, but first he wants to meet the schoolchildren. 'Maybe we can teach these children to do good in this world. Who knows, they might even be future Dawnguard members.'

When he watches Varak Suur, and sees the warpriest have a similar reaction, he asks "This may be the most important mission we have. An opportunity to change children's lives for the better. Perhaps we can see if any of the others would like to join us today, and we can leave for Foxglove's mansion immediately after we are finished?"

How far away is Foxglove's mansion?

"Agreed. It is important to show the young they have nothing to fear and that they can always find strength in the light," he replied to the paladin, giving him a nod and a grin. It seemed others would be on the same page as he was, figuring the young should be taught of the great world.

Chrona enjoys the stories that night but remains quiet, simply listening and smoking. Always staying close to the fireplace.

The next day she lets herself mildly sleep in and has a light breakfast. She reads the letters when the others bring them to her attention. She could take or leave the children, but would go if everyone wanted to. The Foxglove engagement though, that delighted her. Jumping up from the bar, "Well, I have a few errands to run. I'll be back in a few!" and she prances out the door, wearing her casual clothes but with her leather armor in hand.
GM said an hour to Foxgloves

First she picks up her new fine clothing, second she stops by the Armorer. "I need something new, that fits like this," she tosses the leather armor onto the table, " but stronger. Better but not clumsy." They end up working out a suit of Masterwork studded leather armor. Again, black leather with the studs chard black and tight fitting in a way reminiscent of a corset. It'll be no surprise to her compatriots that the armor is as revealing and flirtatious as it can be while still being functional, the lower half being a short armored skirt. Once things are settled a large emgraved leather belt hanging behind the counter catches her eye. It is decorated with an intricate etching of the ledgendary Pheonix bird, surrounded by horrors and demons. "What is that? It's.. it's comforting.."
The armorer grunts, "Das belt make yu strong, like me." He smiles a dirty grin mixed with gaps and metal, but he has a bit of honest charisma.
"Hmmm, indeed. I'll remember that.."

Lastly she swings by a jeweler. She flirts and is amicable, trying on many things. 'This ruby necklace is beautiful, but I'll need more to impress Foxglove..' Her eyes fall on a circlet, a gorgeous headband. 'Thiiiis!!!' After much coaxing of the jeweler she leaves without the circlet, but has a sparkle in her eye. 'Oh yes, soon, soon you will be mine. Beautiful, beautiful, I will radiate!'

She purchases MW Studded Leather 175 - her old leather (10/2) = 170 gp.
She also discovers and falls in love with a feminine Belt of Giant Strength and Headband of Alluring Charisma. The woman has such expensive tastes! ;)

Chrona returns about an hour and a half later, roughly mid morning, and searches the Inn to see if her fellow adventurers are still there getting ready as well. Regardless she'll don her new armor and pack up her belongings, assuming she'll not return to the Inn. She makes sure to thoroughly thank Ameiko as she leaves, kissing her on each cheek and tipping her well for her hospitality.

With Foxglove's mansion only being an hour away, we can finish up the school visit and make the hour-long journey to be there before supper.

When Praetor sees Chrona at the Rusty Dragon, he asks for her opinion on whether it would be acceptable to wear his armor on the journey to Foxglove's Mansion, then change into his finer clothing, or if he should be wearing the new outfit for when they arrive.

These sort of social intricacies bore Praetor, but he does see the value. He would prefer to wear his armor, in fact, he would sleep in it if he could.

Ren was up before dawn in the morning and out on the street in anticipation of the shopping trip today. While she enjoyed the stories last night, she ended up slipping away early to remove herself from the crowd. So she was well rested when she woke up early excited about her new clothing.

Her first stop is the weapons shop where she sells her two short swords (+ 10 GP) and picks up a cold iron dagger (- 4 GP) and a silvered stiletto (dagger)(- 22 GP) with a wrist sheath to fit it (-5 GP). On a whim she also picks up a Sap. (- 1 GP).

She then travels to pick up her outfits where Vernah has outdone herself. The dress is a gorgeous lavender with full skirts, a high bodice and embroidered flowing sleeves. Over the corset and chemise that accompany it, the dress emphasizes almost wasp waist and gives her much more of an hourglass figure then she had ever expected.
The dress is accompanied by a embroidered matching cloak, soft riding boots and another pair of dancing slippers.
Ren can only nod in approval as she realizes the cloak has a number of hidden pockets and the flowing sleeves will easily conceal the wrist sheath she just purchased.

She also collects the traveling clothes(-1GP) which consist of darker leather hose and kirtle over a low cut chemise. The outfit showed more cleavage then she was expecting but when covered by the linen cloak the entire outfit hinted at more then it showed. Vernah also thought enough to include a matching leather girdle from which Rem could hang her daggers. The outfit was finished with high hard leather boots that could stand up to many days of walking on the road.

From there Ren went to the jewelry store where she picked up a pair of pearl earrings (10 GP), a matching thin silver circlet with a pearl studded hairnet. (60 GP).

She then travels to the local Apoticary to pick up a basic set of powders and makeup to cover the flaws in her weathered face. (-1GP)

Finally she headed to Armor shop where she is walking in just as Chrona is leaving. There she selects an amazingly made set of charcoal grey studded leather armor with black highlights. This she asks for a few modifications made so she will have to get this tomorrow.(-175 GP)
She requests a cotton hood and scarf to be included in the same charcoal grey as well as an allowance be made on her left arm to fit her wrist sheath under the armor. She also requests that as dagger sheath be built into her right boot for one of her existing daggers.

Then she heads back to the inn, spirits high and joins the group there she encourages the group to visit the children today and plan on visiting Lord Foxglove tomorrow.

Arkon in his searching is finally successful in finding an armourer who will play around with a suit of Masterwork Studded Leather armour until he is able to get it fitted to Orz

[-175GP)

That armourer also mentions that he has a Darkwood Heavy Wooden Shield on hand that was made for a Druid who was presumably killed and thus never picked up his order. The armourer brings out a beautifully crafted shield and after beholding it's quality Arkon readily agrees and hands over the money (-257GP)

Then he will look around until he has found his travelling companions again

Seems like there is something of a run on Masterwork Studded Leather this morning :)

Having left his window open the previous night to let some fresh air in to the room after an evening of alchemical experimentation, Lackspell is woken by the sun as it rises. He lets out a brief groan...

Oh gods ... why did I stay up so late last night... or at least not close the shutters... I could close them I suppose ... but then I'd be up ...

Then his eyes focus blearily on the results of his experiments of the night before and he sits bolt upright in his bed, a smile on his face...

Ahh yes... that's why. I finally cracked it! Alarim's Deciphering Formula ... how grand. And even better, the improvement to the Bomb design...

He jumps out of bed and dresses hurriedly for breakfast, feeling suddenly very energised despite the lack of sleep. He strides down into the dining room and helps himself to whatever is on offer for breakfast this morning. While eating he hears of the letters and after finishing up his food he heads off to pick up his orders in preparation for the day. His first stop is at Savah's Armory. Here he picks up his new mace and crossbow bolts as well as his new armor. Trying on the long leather coat for the first time is almost a revelation for Lackspell. This coat, although of very similar basic design to his old one, is of enormously greater quality. Made of a much darker leather than his old coat and adorned with metal studs at strategic spots for improved protection. Tailored properly for him, it is a much better fit and is altogether more flattering.

Goodness! Doesn't this look amazing! I've never had anything made just for me before. What an amazing thing. Looks so much better than my poor old coat. Mind you, if I travel as much in this one as I did in the other...

Thanking Savah profusely for her work, he pays her and carries on to visit Nisk, where he buys his new Alembic. Finding it a bit unwieldy to carry through the streets while he still has more to do, he pays a local (assuming someone is available for porter work for a couple of silver pieces) to deliver it to the Rusty Dragon for him.

Lastly, he visits Vernah to pick up his fancy outfit for the visit to Foxglove. Although he tries it on and finds it very well made and tailored to him just as well as his new armor, he finds the idea of such finery slightly ... uncomfortable and after pronouncing himself pleased with her work, and changes back into his street attire. Then with new clothes in hand, he returns to the inn to see where his companions are.

"We still have some time before lunch, so what did that letter say about the children?"

bluff: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

He voice sounds like what everyone would expect; detached, purposefully feigned boredom covering modest curiosity, and a touch of annoyance. But inside Chrona's excitement for the evening is bubbling and the opportunity to flaunt her confidence, even if it is to a group of kids, is starting to sound attractive.

"Since we have time it would be cruel to stand them up."

"The children at this mans school are just having a harder time in the aftermath of the attack. They wish for us to visit to help dispel their worries miss Chrona. We should leave soon indeed," the priest agreed, having finished his meal and gulping down his drink. Unlock the others, he had no real need to purchase any new equipment, his capabilities in battle all provided by look Apsu and his races natural abilities. His focus now was to help these children and was ready to leave whenever his companions were. After that, he would help them for doing the right thing with these children, after all, Foxglove was just another human to him.

"Yes the children, they are our future and are a wondrous reflection of a time when we were more innocent, Orz and myself are very eager to help them."

At the mention of children Orz seems excited racing around and bouncing from foot to foot

Standing there in her new traveling outfit, Ren speaks up shyly:

It sounds like we are all agreed that we should see the children first. Shall we go?

She will follow the others if the head to the children

Lackspell takes a moment to go up to his room and hang up his new party outfit. Then he returns to the rest of the group in the main room.

Well, I'm ready when you all are.

"Let's be off!"

Chrona takes Arkon by the arm as she skips out the door.

"Those kids are going to LOVE you and Orz!"

As Chrona mangandles/jovially pulls him along Arkon has a suprised look on his face..

"Follow Orz...."

The town seems to have woken up and the streets are busseling with activity. Chrona can smell some delicious street food from a leftover festival stall.

As she prances through the activity with a reluctant Arkon, she waves to people and plays the role of a hero.

"Arkon! You should show them a feat of strength! News of that will surely reinforce the children's ease when they get home this evening!"

At Chronas words Arkon looks around for something suitably impressive to lift
"Umm yes... Orz is heavy" Arkon lifts Orz up struggling comedically for any who can see... he then puts Orz down and says

"Howabout some volunteers.. grab on" as he holds out his arms so that some kids/people can grab on...

He lifts both arms at the same time with whatever burdens they have on them.... seeming to struggle.. "No not heavy.. hmmm I sppose not"

He looks around and finds a cart.. " Howabout this?" he points to the relatively small cart. Seeing as there is nothing in it and no apparent owner around he mischievously runs over and picks the cart up over his head

"Rar! .. yeah!"

At that he actually is a bit tired now from the exertion..

"Ok all shows over for now// maybe more later.. phew!"

and he continues on with Chrona.

Varak ould watch the pair of his companions revel in the act of being the town heros, the elementalkin duo quickly accepted among the humans. He had seen a few smile and wave as well, but still understood the others that rushed out of his way. At his core he was still a savage beast in a lot of ways. He was beginning to let go of his hurt feelings and actually have compassion for this town and its frail populace. "How about you miss Chrona? Do you not wish to wow them?" he asked, being the one to egg on the fiery beauty this time for the crowds benefit.

As the croud begins to gather Ren feels a spike of fear...
Too many, I'll just....

Ren moves to the side of the group that is watching and Now that she can see a way out, she calms down a bit.

As Arkon finishes she starts clapping, causing the crowd to give a smattering of applause.
As the clapping dies downs he says quietly to the woman next to her:
He's very strong isn't he?

Arkon stumbles over to the side and leans against a post.. and mubles to himself

"What i'll do to entertain kids.."

Chrona gives Varak a side grin, "Thought you would never ask..

The Ifrit picks up a flaggan of hard alcohol from a nearby stand, after taking a swig she makes a few twirls, curtseys to the children, and blows them a kiss. Though after she kisses her palm it's not a kiss she blows at all, but a large fireball that erupts (safely) over head.

Chrona bows and tells the children mischievously, "You have nothing to fear, I was born in the heart of the Sun and am here to ensure that Sandpoint always has a bright light shining over it."

Bluff: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Praetor bides his time with the companions, allowing them to capture the childrens' interest before he speaks.

"Children, I'll be honest with you, this is a tough world to live in - but I can tell that each and every one of you has the strength inside to survive and flourish. You have a light shining in you, ready to brighten the world. You must use that strength to make this world a better place, to help those who are not as strong as you are."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

The paladin can tell the attention of the children is short, so he wraps up his speech. Struck by an idea, he draws his greatsword. The blade is covered in gold like the sun and all the markings of the Dawnguard.

"I belong to an order called the Dawnguard. We are sworn to protect this world and its people. Are there any among you who would like to become an honorary member of the Dawnguard? If so, step forward and kneel."

He leaves them with a powerful smile.

WHEN LEAST WE MET:

And now, a time for a little bit of GM fiat to get everyone back together and get the ball rolling once more!

Valorous adventurers, you have chosen to visit the local academy at Sandpoint and speak to the children. You speak well, demonstrating some of your prowess. Out of the thirty children present, about a third of them step forward and kneel to be made 'honorary' Dawnguard members. In general, the children seem delighted.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20

Lackspell stands at the back of the group for most of the group's visit to the children, content to let the more charismatic members of the group befriend and calm the children.

Amazing, I never would have thought to do this. And yet, look at them. Us coming here has helped them. Not by saving them from peril by fighting goblins, but by fighting their fear. And they are no longer afraid, which is good. Well, except perhaps for that one ...

Lackspell's eyes narrow as he concentrates on the unsettled boy. After a moment, he wanders slowly over to the boy and crouches down next to him.

Hello there young man, what is your name?

Chrona proudly looks at herself in a mirror hanging across the room behind all the children. 'Damn girl, you look gooood,' she muses over her short armored skirt, toned thighs, and tight waist. 'This sight alone should have stunned those goblins where they stood! That armorer earned his gold today.' She completely misses the moment with the kids as she admires herself in her new armor.

'Do you think there's a Mrs. Foxglove? It'd make things more difficult, but also relieve me of any proposals if he's the type to get attached.. let's just hope he's the giving type..'

Perception: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (2) - 1 = 1

The boy starts a bit. He's clearly somewhat on edge, though you sense that none of that nervousness is directed towards you. He speaks softly to Lackspell.
"My name is Ethan Barrett, sir."

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

Lackspell stares at Ethan for a moment, trying to intuit what is bothering him, but comes up blank.

Well Ethan, I am pleased to meet you. My name is Lackspell. My friends and I are here to help you, you know. Everyone and anyone in town who needs it can ask for our help. Now you have the look of a young man who is worrying about something. Is there something we can help you with?

I hope the others don't mind me speaking for them like this, even if it is only to a young boy.

Ethan grimaces, then shuffles his feet somewhat anxiously.
"Sir...it's just that nobody is listening to me! Mr. Quint, my mother and father, my friends...none of them believe me! But I've never made up stories before, and I swear a Goblin ran into my closet the day of the attack!"

Ethan looks up at you, clearly expecting you to belittle his words, but he looks defiant and earnest.

Lackspell looks puzzled for a moment ...

A goblin? But surely we got them all? He must be imagining ... well, are you sure? Did we really get them all? Goblins are sneaky little vermin ... I suppose it's not impossible ...

A goblin? Ran into your closet? Have you seen it again since? They can get into strange spaces and they are very stealthy when they want to be.

Even if it's not a goblin. This sort of thing is something we can help with ... check it for him and help fight the fear. And if it is, well, I'm sure some of us aren't going to mind killing another goblin.

Very well Ethan. I will talk to my friends and we will come take a look in your closet.

The reptile could not hide his grin as the children warmed up to him. It was truly a blessed moment for him to enjoy such peace his own childhood had barely known. He took his chance to watch both his paladin and magi wow the children, pleased to know them himself. He'd chuckle and let any children who approached feast their curiosity about him at the leisure, showing his gentle nature while also showing his sharp teeth and claws. Each would be given a promise and a prayer to Apsu, telling all that the father dragon would watch over them.

Ethan was shocked.

"You mean it? You'll really come with me?"

A wide grin splits his face.

"Awesome! Let's go!"

Ethan is clearly eager to bring you along.

Lackspell looks Ethan straight in the eyes.

I mean it, Ethan - I will come with you. And I will talk to my friends as well. Get them to come along if they will. Wait here a moment and I will talk to them.

With that he stands back up and walks up to the rest of the group.

My friends ... there is a young man back there, the nervous looking one, saying that there is a goblin hiding in his house from just after the attack. I don't know if it's truth or imagination, but in a sense, given what we are doing here, it does not matter which. I think we should go and investigate it, and lay his fears to rest if we can. Will any of you come with me?

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12

From her side of the croud, Ren sees the exchange between Lackspell and the boy.

As the children break into cheers a smile breaks into her face.
At least we brought some happiness to some of the children... but I wonder about what that boy Lackspell is talking to...

As Lackspell moves to the rest of the group Ren skirts around the croud and joins them.

In response to The question Ren steps up and with unusual assertiveness
Of course I will help. The goblins were bad enough for the adults, no kids should have to deal with them.

Lackspell smiles at Ren's support.

Of course Ren would be quick to say yes. She's seems so quiet but there is a fierce protectiveness to her. She's always quick to protect those weaker than herself.

Thank you Ren