Chrios' Ironfang Invasion

Game Master Torilgrey

Date: Gozran 17, Day 27 in the Fangwood

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IronFang Invasion Language Guide


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The first day of spring dawns a little cold and raw, but the frost quickly melts away revealing a crisp spring day. The town of Phaendar is bursting to its seams, with villagers, farmers, and merchants all descending into the town, what is normally the village green is now covered with tents, livestock, merchants, and running children.

For those of you from out-of-town, you've secured rooms at the Taproot Inn, who's owner, Jet, is more than welcoming to any and all. She’s tapped the first keg of last year’s ale for the celebrations happening across town. Father Noelan leads morning services for the town at the Shrine, its steps decorated with banners and fresh flowers.

Merchants, farmers, and craftspeople hawk wares across the common. Fresh smells, noise, and smiles populate the morning in town Fresh pies! New boots! are just some of the calls you hear across the market space.

Phaendar’s Spring Market Festival draws a crowd from all over Nirmathas, many solely to hear Aubrin the Green - the retired Chesnardo Ranger turned Caydenite Cleric - recount bawdy tales of adventure from her youth.

Aubrin the Green, Abby to the locals, walks through the market like the local hero she is. Shaking hands, and telling stories. Her dented pewter tankard filled with ale, and her infectious smile turns heads wherever she goes.

You’ve got the morning and early afternoon to wander the market and see what sights there are in town. If you’d like to purchase anything at the market you are welcome to do so.


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Zdena and Cailen of Westfields hike into town from the north, over the old bridge. They've been out scouting for a few days and are back just in time for the Spring Market Festival. The two don't look like a matched set at first glance, even though they're first cousins and almost the same age. Zdena's small tusks and heavy build distort the family features. Her grayish skin tone and the full head of height she has on Cailen don't really help you see the resemblance, either.

But if you squint (or if you just know they're related, which you might if you're from around here) you can see it; the same wavy brown hair, kept short on the sides and long on top, the same nose, scaled up a bit on Zdena, and many of the same mannerisms. The sideways grin is more charming coming from Cailen, but Zdena's toothier version can sometimes be situationally appropriate.

As Zdena and Cailen approach the eastern outskirts of Phaedren, they notice a small but rapidly advancing horde of shrieking children.

"You'd think we'd been away weeks." Zdena murmurs to Cailen. She then takes a step in front of him and shrieks right back, drawing their attention. The first three impacts don't knock her down, though a fourth, shorter child trailing behind the first three wobbles her enough that Cailen puts out a hand to brace her.

When the swarm is eventually properly greeted and sorted out, Zdena hoists the smallest cousin, Andis, up on her shoulders. He's not as small as he used to be, though, she thought, as a bit more weight than expected settles on her, Why do I still think of him as a baby sometimes?

Ulla, Orric, and Zecca babble animatedly as they lead the way to where the Westfields Farm wagon is parked. Zdena beams fondly at them the whole way. She doesn't even bother to tone down how much tooth there is in her grin; her cousins can read her natural expressions just fine. She waves briefly at Abby, but wants to stash her gear and see if the rest of the family has any particular plans before she and Cailen report in.

It's going to be such a good day, she thought.


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Ryll wanders the market, with a short list of items to keep an eye out for on behalf of her family and Nadezhda, but mostly as an excuse to enjoy the sights of the market festival. Premek perches on her shoulder, yellow eyes glancing around, his tail flicking around animately. He yawns dramatically as if to pretend he's unimpressed.


Earlier
As Zdena and Cailen cross the majestic bridge into town over the Marideth River gorge, you both notice the construction apparatus and beams haven't budged in the days you've been gone from town. Obviously Smith Kining hasn't been paid to complete the work still...

Abby brightens and stops when she sees the pair, Zdena! Cailen, just who I was looking for, as she ambles over to you both. Her gait uninterrupted by her prosthetic leg. As she gets within speaking distance, she tucks her staff into the crook of her arm, and fishing around inside her armored coat, finally producing a tiny scroll, as if it arrived by raven. Cailen, this came for you this morning by bird. She passes the tiny scroll to the young ranger, watching impassively as he reads it.

Cailen scans the small text twice, reading it deliberately a second time. Today? They want me to ship back out into the wood today? disappointment obvious in his voice. He sighs, and turns to Zdena, Well, looks like we're back in the nick of time cuz. There's some problem with a tribe of korreds deep in the Fangwood, and they need me to go assist some of the senior rangers with scouting the area. He looks from Zdena to Abby, who shakes her head in the negative.

Its what I thought too Abby, he says, looking at Zdena with a pained look on his face, I can't bring you on this one cousin, the fey of the Fangwood are too dangerous until you've had a few more battles under your belt. Their tricks are devious and while you'll get there, you aren't quite there yet! I'll put in a good word on your behalf again with the Sarge when I see him though! Picking up his rucksack and weapons, the young ranger hugs Zdena, before crossing to his family and embracing each of them.

Have fun tonight Z, I should be back in a couple weeks and we'll get you in front of the Sarge for real. Keep up with the farm while I'm gone, and then we'll see how much the trails have moved in the Fangwood when I get back! With a wave and a grin, the young ranger heads back the way he came, many of those who know him clapping him on the back as he heads back out on a mysterious mission.

Abby turns to Zdena, I'll be over at the Root tonight, bring the family by and I'll tell you about the time I tricked two redcaps into painting their hair white, okay. Soon enough, your time will come too, and then you'll be wandering the woods looking for fey causing mayhem too! the former ranger says with a smile.


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Yeah, sure, don't think I've heard that one, Zdena responds absently as she watches Cailen depart. A weird mix of envy and anxiety churn in her stomach.

Well... there's plenty of distractions to be had today. Time to wander a bit.


Queer Tiefling (Demon Spawn) Arcane Duelist 4/ HP:29/29, AC:20(T:14, FF:17,+2vs goblinoids) , Fort:3, Ref:8, Will:6, Init:3, Perc:8

The children shrieked with excitement as they ran away. "Sigh, there goes my audience". Moments later Zdena and Cailen came into view surrounded by Malgrim's former audience. No story they could tell could complete with the returning family members who had been out DOING things.

Malgrim walked deeper into the fairgrounds, tapping a quick beat on the Tambour strapped to their side. Passing Abby in the Commons Malgrim's feet turned towards the Taproot. If Abby was out here, then there was no one entertaining folks at the inn. And maybe Jet had cracked open the first keg by now.

Malgrim signed in contentment. This life they has chosen suited them much better than the one they had been born and raised to. Moving here 8 years ago was one of their best choices.


Male Human Shaman 4 34hp AC 15/14/13; Fort 3 Ref2 WIll8; init 5, perc 13

Sighere wanders though the market festival. A look of almost childish wonder on his face. He stops at a couple stalls and samples a few sweets, and buys a couple nick-knacks for the folks back home. Letting his feet take him where they may for the day. Towards evening his stomach lets him know that sweets alone do make a good meal and he heads back to the inn looking forward to a good meal and the nights entertainment. "Tomorrow I really need to get started on finding a job"


Malgrim finds their way to the Root, securing a favored chair by the hearth, and Jet whisks a freshly poured pint over their way, Malgrim, thank Shelyn you are here, crowd’s already filling their way in, and need a solid distraction for them! Abby’s great an’ all, but you’ve got the talent, she sets down the pint, grinning at Malgrim, I’ve got a freshly butchered beef stew, or last year’s salt pork in beans, got a preference? She takes their order, and shwishes away through the crowd, her belled scarf swaying to dodge overexcited drinkers and scrambling children alike.

As Sighere wanders through the crowds of Spring Market, he feels a hand upon his shoulder, turning him roughly about, a one-eyed man glares at him a moment, before coming into focus as Pharus One-Eye, a huntsman from Sighere’s village! I didn’t know you were heading in this direction Sighere, I know we’re not supposed to interfere with your wanderings, but I saw you here, and figured I’d say hi! Been a long time since we’ve both been home. Oh me? I’ve came to town to see the ‘alchemist’ Vane, he’s making up a poultice for Elder Laman to take care of that bad leg he’s got. With you out and about, we didn’t have anyone else to take care of that, so I got nominated. Hey, I’ve got to run, but maybe I’ll see you later tonight for a pint? With that, the one-eyed woodsman bows, and vanishes into the crowd, allowing Sighere to return to his thoughts of dinner and a warm fire.


Female Half-elf Rogue (Unchained) 3, HP 26, AC18(FF14,T15,+2vs goblinoids,+1vs traps), FORT 2, REF 7(+1vs traps), WILL 5(+2vs enchantment), INIT 4, Perception 10 (11 vs surprise or traps)

Ryll strolls through the marketplace, her black hair bound back in a braid, hazel eyes alert as she seeks out the herbalist's stall. While her own appearance isn't particularly remarkable, Premek, the sleek sable cat perched on her shoulder is certainly worthy of note.

A few of the locals seem to recognize her as she wanders through the stalls, and wave a greeting, welcoming her back. Far more of them recognize the cat, who is greeted with a bit more familiarity.

Reaching the herbalist's tent, Ryll wishes them good morning, and pulls out a list, frowning at a few of the names. She reaches for a jar of powder, then stops as Premek flattens his ears and lashes his tail against her back. Ryll stops, and gestures at a bundle of dried leaves instead, and Premek purrs his approval. Ryll nods, and continues working her way down the list.


With Premek’s urging Ryll finds the herbs Nazheda sent the two of them into the market to find, and returning to her small abode she thanks the half-elven woman, Thank you dearie, I’m glad you are back safe from the front. Those Molthunites are a scourge, but we have to protect our lands - thank you again for your effort there. cats wind between her feet, calmly protecting their territory from all the strangers in town, and the accompanying smells and sounds associated with doubling the population of Phaendar. This is perfect, and will help me with the cattle cures farmer MacThom asked me for. Hoofroot would ruin his whole herd, and it is early in the spring for any one to deal with that… The elderly witch gazes from her front steps, squinting at the figures walking by her small, rickety fence. Bohdana’s ears perk up, but the ancient Siamese quickly lays back down, feigning indifference to the passers-by as not important to his mistress’ domain.

Darn apple trees are starting to bud, can’t quite see who’s down there… Nazheda ruminates aloud, ignoring her advancing age and notoriously failing eyesight. The windchimes by her side echo, their soft sounds filling the garden beds by her somewhat ramshackle abode. Oh dearie! she addresses Ryll, using the term she applies to anyone who looks less than a third of her advancing years, Its your Aunt and Uncle. Go, spend time with your family, I’ve got to get the cauldron going for this cure if that lazy herdsman is ever going to make it with his mangy cattle stock.

Bohdana eyes the pair, seemingly satisfied with the match, and purrs contentedly. Go, enjoy the sights and smells today Premek. the aged cat’s thoughts gently ping off Premek’s consciousness, We have much work to do here, but keep an eye out for any pretty trinkets the mistress and MASTER may enjoy; especially things of the first world, remember HE likes those types of things… Bohdana’s mental pronouncement ends with a satisfied look at Ryll as he stands to his aged feet, before turning and returning inside the dwelling with all the air of a king in his domain.

The witch excuses herself from the pair, and Ryll makes her way through the budding apple trees and snaking rose vines in what passes for Nazheda’s overgown yard, approaching the weathered knee-high picket fence. As she nears her Aunt and Uncle they wave. Her Aunt’s early lightly greying hair pulled back in a bun, but still her head ringed with fresh flowers, as if she were still a teenage girl in the village. Uncle Drynn’s weathered hands wave, scars and calluses from a lifetime of laying thatch atop the roofs of Phaendar crossing his hands and forearms. There you two are! Sarah exclaims. Come on, Uncle Drynn and I are headed to the Root, Malgrim’s telling tales before Abby drops in, and Abby would love to see you I’m certain.

Uncle Drynn just beams a smile at his wife, patting his thickening paunch. Plus, I’m betting Jet has cracked the first spring keg, and I could smell the beef being smoked last night for her stew. The Shoanti in her certainly knows interesting ways of cooking meat, but it is always tasty! his eyes gleaming with the thoughts of smoked beef stew.

They lock arms, one on either side of Ryll, and begin wandering towards the Taproot Inn.

In the Taproot
Jayness approaches Zdena, his arms loaded with her weapons, Cousin, I know you didn’t get to do out on ranger stuff, but Abby asked me to have your weapons and armor sharpened and maintained by Smith Kining, AND SHE PAID FOR IT! So I brought everything over to the Dwarf, and she drove a hard bargain, but she did it, Mostly I think to show off for a couple half-elf hunters. I’ve seen them before around town, but they are always so intimidating with their weapons and armor. They aren’t like you, nice, you know… the teenage farmhand trails off with a wistful look in his eye, as if recognizing unrealized dreams of adventure and exploration.

The Westfield clan, headed by their matriarch, Anyikha, dominates a table in the corner; Menri and Yarill nursing pints of fresh spring ale, and Jayness takes a seat indicating Zdena should sit as well.

A steaming bowl of food arrives for Malgrim, seated by the hearth, with Jet’s thanks for the entertainment. She adjusts the magical lamp above the mantle, narrowing its ever present beam onto Malgrim, as they sit and prepare to storytell...

Blue is OOC statements for ease of differentiating text:
Setting up for any introductions any of the party wants to make of each other, descriptions would be helpful so other party members can get a good mental image of the others in the room. And not to rush anyone who wanted to do anything else in the market before dinner/evening time feel free to post it if you'd like :D


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

As Ryll enters the Taproot and begins looking for a spot to sit, Premek hops down and begins a circuit of the room as if he owns the place, tail in the air as he threads nimbly and without much concern between patrons' feet in the crowded establishment. He stops by some friendly and familiar children and graciously permits them to pet him or skritch him behind the ears before continuing. He pauses to sniff at Zdena, who carries some interesting scents from the deeper woods.


I've put up a map of the Taproot Inn and roughed in where you all are standing/sitting. I only put Jet for the NPCs into the map, as to not overload the map and make it confusing


Jet, seeing Premek prowling on the floor, smiles at him. Humming to herself, she grabs a tea saucer, filling it with cream from a jug behind the bar. She takes the associated tea cup, and produces a piece of smoked salmon from a cabinet behind the bar, carves off a chunk of cheese, and sets both down on the floor at the end of the bar for Premek to sate his hunger. Who’s a good creepy kitty-kat? she straightens, murmuring quietly, I don’t know if you are sent by Desna, but odd kitties like you get whatever you want, must be some sorta messenger from the gods…

Ibron and Zecca stand from where they were sitting with their parents and grandmother, We’re going to run over to the Chapel and take a flagon of ale to Uncle Ussun, then we’ll be back in a bit. There are some of the other families visiting town, and we want to see some kids our age, not be stuck in some Inn with our PARENTS… with that, they turn on heel, guarding the flagon with all their wits, and make their way out of the Root.

Anyikha smiles, stilling her son’s voice before he can respond to the two, They are teenagers Yarill, remember, when you and your sister were that age, you were both quite a handful yourselves. Turning to Zdena, she asks, So what did you see in that fey-infested wood, how much did those trails twist and turn on you unexpectedly? You know its old elf magic which makes them do that you know…

DC 12 Knowledge Local or Sense Motive:
You know the locals say that it is a combination of fey magic and ancient elven magic which causes the trails in the forest to shift from day to day, and only Orienteering and direction sense can truly help you navigate from place to place within the forest. She’s just repeating a folk tale she believes to be true.

You can make a dice roll with the appropriate skill to click on the spoiler and read what’s under it and respond if you like. Of course, you can respond without knowing what’s under the spoiler as well :D


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Premek purrs like Jet is the best person in the world. It's a sincerely held belief which will persist for at least the next five minutes. :) He rubs against her ankles appreciatively before focusing his attention on the treats.


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

My armor... sharpened? Zdena looks blankly at Jayniss for a moment. Oh, *sword* sharpened, armor repaired, yes. Thank you. Very kind of Abby.

Zdena mostly sits back and watches the crowd; she's good at watching. She mostly offers polite hellos and goodbyes as various people come and go from the tavern, including offering the back of her hand for one of the local cats to sniff as he brushes by.

At least until asked a direct question by her formidable grandmother. She studies the old woman's face for a moment, wondering what she's really asking.

I'm doing a Studied Target for a +1 on Sense Motive.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

Uncertainly, she replies, Not much twisting and turning, I think? A regular amount? We didn't go very deep into the woods, mostly north along the edge.


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Almost done with his circuit, Premek wanders by Sighere. A newcomer to the area, bringing new scents from the road. He seems to be sitting near Abby so he can't be too bad.


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Queer Tiefling (Demon Spawn) Arcane Duelist 4/ HP:29/29, AC:20(T:14, FF:17,+2vs goblinoids) , Fort:3, Ref:8, Will:6, Init:3, Perc:8

and the prince fled his father's empire. He did not stop till he was deep in the bewitched forests far to the north. The army he had led, whom he had hammered honor into with every battle, with every victory, choose to follow him into exile. Named traitors by their nation, by their families, honor was all they had left.

this story starts out so well. To bad it has so much tragedy in it. Hope and failure again and again. Can't finish this epic now... Not on festival day. Time for a break and then change the mood.

perform: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

Malgrim picks up their pint and with a toast to Jet and another to the crowd begins to drink. A slow sip, and another, swallow after swallow the tankered never leaves their lips until, at last, it can be lifted upside down and placed empty on the table next to the others.

it's a good thing Jet waters these down for me. If these had all been ale I'd have passed out 1...2..5... How long have I been in here? Well I would have passed out hours ago. Definitely time for a break


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/golf clap well done


Abby leads the crowd in roaring applause to Malgrim’s story, Damn you spin a fine yarn Malgrim, I wish I had your talent with words! Alas, I’ve just got experience, and cannot spin yarns like you! Abby bows to Malgrim’s talent; the crowd loves the interplay between two accomplished storytellers, and the drink and smiles flow high in the common room of the Root.

Two out-of town merchants stopped to listen to the end of Malgrim’s tale before Abby launches into her next one, which ends So no sh!t, there I am, a bucket of whitewash in one hand, and two Redcaps going all fisticuffs on each other after I’d just convinced them with a bit of Cayden’s lubrication, she hoists her mug and points to it laughing, That they should paint each other’s hair white, as it would give them the power to ward off evil spirits. Those sorry two might still be arguing with each other, but we made our exit, stage left, and never did worry much about what would happen to them… the crowd laughs, and you see the merchants heading upstairs with their wares stuffed below their arms. Jet makes the rounds with pitchers of ale, refilling mugs and tankards as she goes.

She gives Abby a playful shove to the center of the room, and drops a loaf of bread next to Malgrim’s stool, Aye, one more for her, and then you’ve got the room for the rest of the evening, thanks for being willing to share the stage with her. She’s really very impressed with your storytelling, you know… before she whisks away, filling Premek’s saucer with water by the bar.

Aubrin wanders to the middle of the room, a gracious, but slightly tipsy hostess. After all, she’s merely fulfilling the divine mandate of Cayden Caileen, All right, all right, don’t shove! I’ve got one more for tonight and then the real storyteller will regale you with tales of mystery, love lost, laughter, and whatever yarn they feel fits your mood best! This is about the grizzly bear, the bees, and the honey! Now, and Cayden strike me down if this isn’t true--

The front door explodes into flinders. A cry of agony pierces the sudden chaos. The sound of a pewter tankard hitting the wooden floor echoes across the immediate silence. Aubrin lies on the floor, gasping and clutching at the blood gushing from a wound in her chest. An improbable ballista bolt quivers in the wall behind her.

Two hobgoblins in military dress stand just beyond the shattered door, blades drawn, lit by the glow of burning homes around the town green. Behind them dozens- perhaps hundreds- of hobgoblin soldiers march on the muddied streets, hobnailed boots striking sparks where they tread upon rock. Pheandar burns, shouts of drunken celebration are replaced with panicked screams in the night. Behind them, above the flames and humble rooftops, rises a tower of black stone. Family members duck beneath tables, clutching each other at the unexpected sight of avocado-skinned monsters looming out of the darkness and into their celebration.

knowledge Local or History DC 16 or Ryll gets this one for free:
The uniforms of the hobgoblins are that of the Ironfang Legion, a monstrous mercenary unit formerly in the employ of Molthune responsible for the Ramgate massacre, where the Nirmathas assault force was devastated, suffering 90% casualties, and the civilian support force was put to the sword- against Molthuni official policy and Rules of Engagement. But they haven’t been seen in any action for two years, as if they disappeared, weakening the Molthuni forces on the Nirmathas front.

Aubrin is prone and aspirating blood, but obviously still alive from the bloody froth forming on her lips

The hobgoblins shout at the room All you! OUTSIDE now. trying to intimidate the room, poorly, I might add. As they are attempting to intimidate the room, there is no meaningful effect (stat or otherwise) against any of the PCs or levelled NPCs (Abby - but she’s got her own complications to deal with)
Intimidate, Untrained: 1d20 - 6 ⇒ (3) - 6 = -3
Jet quickly ducks behind the bar, and families shelter under the tables, your presence giving them the resilience to stand still, rather than comply with the broken Taldan commands of the hobgoblins….

GM dice:

Initiative Premek: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
Initiative Zdena: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 2 = 12
Initiative Ryll: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13
Initiative Malgrim: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 = 19
Initiative Sighere: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5
Initiative Aubrin STUNNED: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7
Initiative Hobgoblins: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16
Bleed Damage to Abby: 1d4 ⇒ 1

No one has surprise, as the hobgoblins use the surprise round to attempt an intimidate check to no avail. Premek may proactively roll stealth in the surprise round, being a cat and all… Actions as follows…..Malgim may act

Initiative:
Malgrim
Hobgoblins Yellow and Green
Zdena
Ryll
Premek
Aubrin
Sighere

aaaand with a -3 I've got the lowest roll thus far for anyone! :D So probably the best way to do this is that Malgrim posts their actions first, including moving on the map Then both Yellow and Green will go, then everyone else can post their actions and move themselves on the map, without waiting for each other, just Zdena, Ryll, Sighere, and Premek can all post whenever. I'll post a summary at the end of each round and then we'll move ahead again :D Questions?


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Is my Stealth before our round of actions? If so here's a roll. Otherwise it can wait.

Stealth: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (11) + 16 = 27


It can happen on surprise, so you are stealthed!


Queer Tiefling (Demon Spawn) Arcane Duelist 4/ HP:29/29, AC:20(T:14, FF:17,+2vs goblinoids) , Fort:3, Ref:8, Will:6, Init:3, Perc:8

No, not the legion, not here Malgrim whispered. Not now, not ever again!
Malgrim takes a few steps toward the door standing protectively over Abby the begin to chant in an Arcane tongue. As their spell ends they slam a hand down upon the drum tied at their waist. The drum is oddly silent. Raising their hand to point their fist at the hobgoblins they flick their fingers open and you hear the boom of the drum as the sound crashes in a wave over the monsters who would dare to attack their chosen home.
Malgrim casts chord of shards at the hobgoblins. 15' cone reflex save dc 15 negates damage. I have moved to get all the families behind me and stay just out of the hobgoblin threatened range.
damage/: 2d6 ⇒ (1, 1) = 2


Reflex Save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11
I assume the DC is 15? if you can post those it'd help me resolve dice. 2 Damage each

Razor sharp shards of pure sound slice into the two hobgoblins, fine lines appearing across their exposed skin!

GM Dice:

Yellow Attack on Sighere: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16
Green Attack on Malgrim: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15
yellow damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

The hobgoblins advance into the room with military precision, one going left toward Sighere, the other to its right to Malgrim. Both advance with their shields held high, and immediately snap attacks at their foes, attempting to land the edges of their blades into the left temples of their targets. Sighere's hobgoblin lands a staggering blow to his temple, while Malgrim, more used to fighting goblinoids, easily ducks under the well timed, but poorly placed blow.

7 damage to Sighere, ouch!

On the floor Aubrin moans and continues to bleed.

1 Bleed damage to Aubrin. The rest of the party is now up! Once everyone has posted I'll update before Malgrim goes again in the top of round two. So Sighere, Premek, Ryll, and Zdena are up! we'll assume you are all standing with the shock of the surprise round, but don't have weapons drawn at this moment. Sighere and Malgrim are threatened by their enemies. If anyone wants to ask questions go ahead and put them in your actions; we'll figure them out together.


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Premek takes a few steps forward to peek around the end of the bar, looking at the closer hobgoblin (green) and emits a low, quiet growl. The ground beneath the hobgoblin rumbles and shakes in response.

Tremor as https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/sorcerer/bloodlines/bloodline s-from-paizo/deep-earth-bloodline/
It's a Trip attack with CMB of level+Cha

Tremor: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16


The rumbling under the feet of the hobgoblin in front of Malgrim causes it to fall to the ground prone...

+4 AC from Ranged Attacks, buuut -4 AC from melee attacks!


Female Half-elf Rogue (Unchained) 3, HP 26, AC18(FF14,T15,+2vs goblinoids,+1vs traps), FORT 2, REF 7(+1vs traps), WILL 5(+2vs enchantment), INIT 4, Perception 10 (11 vs surprise or traps)

Ryll looks on in horror. The Legion! Here...how... Snapping out of her shock, she barks out orders. Jet! Drynn! We can't hold this for long! Get them out, to the river or the bridge if you can!

With that, she draws both her weapons, and moves forward, hoping to get behind one of the invaders, or at least a decent angle of attack.

Assuming I can't actually attack this round


At first level, most characters cannot draw weapons and attack in one round. Zdena is the one in the party who can do that. So you drew weapons and move this round! which is great and you'll be able to attack them next round. Which will be especially good for you when the hobgoblin at your feet tries to stand up :D


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Oh good, a plan. Zdena hadn't really had one beyond smashing into the immediate threat, which was clearly not the only threat here.

Stay low, out the back, go go go! Zdena hisses at her family as the hobgoblins advance into the room.

She draws her falchion rushes along the bar toward the hobgoblins. She doesn't see why the closer one goes down, but he's not getting up if she can help it. She brings the sword down heavily on the monster.

Power Attack Prone Target: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 282d4 + 9 ⇒ (4, 4) + 9 = 17

Guess I'll confirm that crit? I mean, I assume the thing is very very dead, but...

Confirm Critical Hit for x2DMG: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 242d4 ⇒ (4, 4) = 8


The prone hobgoblin is very dead... feel free to describe your finishing move... This is a great distraction to writing papers for grad school! :D


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F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Zdena's falchion comes down on the hobgoblin's neck. As the severed head rolls away from the body, she raises her eyes to focus on the second hobgoblin, and gives him a manic smile full of teeth.


Sighere's hands raise in a panic. His inexperience clear in the fear on his face. But then the expression changes, the hands quickly begin to move with deft gestures. A black shadow silently flies out of the rafters pulls up short of the hobgoblin and shoots back into the rafters leaving a couple feathers floating there. Sighere utters a sharp word, and makes a final gesture, the feathers explode into light in the hobgoblins face.

Casting Daze (will save DC 14). If it works, going to move back 15' out of threat range, if not, hope it doesn't hurt too much.


Hey Sighere, so you can take 5' step and cast the spell, which will prevent the hobgoblin from stabbing you for casting a spell. Alternatively you can cast defensively which would be a DC 15+2x spell level to not provoke an attack of opportunity. Lets go with the 5' step and cast Daze on the hobgoblin - means you don't rely on the dice, and you can get the spell off, and lower your chances he'll continue to stab the crap outta you...

The light explosion in the hobgoblin's face cause it to recoil suspiciously from Sighere, and he is stricken for a moment, unable to act.

Will Save: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

The Hobgoblin is unable to Act, the party is up again, Malgrim may act twice before the hobgoblin can act again. The hobgoblin is not defenseless, but cannot move, attack, or take other actions. He is not considered flat-footed.

GM dice:

Bleed: 1d4 ⇒ 2


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Premek takes a few more steps out (5' step) and growls (from a safe 30' distance) at the other hobgoblin. Why change what worked?

Tremor trip attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Trying not to get distracted by all the strange magical effects that seem to be flying around, Zdena launches herself toward the other hobgoblin and attempts to run him through.

Power Attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13

Don't know if that's a hit or not, but if so:

Damage: 2d4 + 9 ⇒ (2, 3) + 9 = 14


The ground shakes under the dazed hobgoblin, dropping him to the ground, and Zdena's powerful cut barely pierces the creature's armor while its on the ground, it continues to squirm and looks as though it may regain its feet unless it is quickly subdued....


Queer Tiefling (Demon Spawn) Arcane Duelist 4/ HP:29/29, AC:20(T:14, FF:17,+2vs goblinoids) , Fort:3, Ref:8, Will:6, Init:3, Perc:8

Malgrim draws their rapier and moves around the table past the wounded Sighere. first action Snapping the blade down Malgrim plunges the tip of their sword at the fallen hobgoblin. second action
attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 121d6 ⇒ 5


The hobgoblin is quite dead... Malgrim's attack expunges the life from the hobgoblin on the ground. Abby continues to bleed on the ground and grows weaker by the moment.

Jet and Drynn stand from their hiding spots, with Jayness helping his grandmother to her feet. The family members in the common room sort of seem subdued by the sudden and completely unexpected explosion of violence in the midst of an otherwise wonderful night.

'Off' Initiative


Ryll stops her advance and blinks, looking at the assorted Hobgoblin viscera. Well then... She looks up, rapidly addressing the three defenders. We can't stay here. They'll burn the building down around us if they can't take it by force. She glances at the shattered doorway. And I fear that they can.

She looks at Zdena Think you can do anything to block the doorway? Something quick to slow them down?

She glances at Malgrim We need to get them moving she says, indicating the shell-shocked crowd. Maybe out the back, unless Jet knows a better way.

Ryll points to Sighere as she starts towards the fallen Abby. You. Help me move Abby back from the door. Maybe Jet has some bandages or something. Dammit, dammit, dammit.


Male Human Shaman 4 34hp AC 15/14/13; Fort 3 Ref2 WIll8; init 5, perc 13

Sighere immediately snaps out of his defensive stance and begins moving towards Abby. As he does he raises his hand, briefly a strange glow surrounds him, the ghostly figure of an ancient shaman appears superimposed over his. A ray of pure white light shoots out of his hand and hits Abby.

Using Channel energy and healing Abby Channel: 1d6 ⇒ 6
points


Good news Sighere, you saved Abby! Channel Energy heals all targets within 30' Since both hobgoblins are quite dead, they are not also healed by the channel energy, heal yourself 6 points of damage as well! She's now at 7Hp and Staggered, due to basically breaking all her ribs... Which means she can either complete a Move action, or a standard action, but not both in the same round. Also her movement speed is reduced to 20'/round while in such dire straits.

Aubrin and the others in the room look at you, Jayness helping his aged grandmother to her feet. Jet pokes her head up from behind the bar as well. Abby, in obvious pain, grits her teeth and thanks the standing heroes of the Root “It... it sounds like there’s an army outside the door. How did they fall on us without being seen? These damn plains are so flat you can see an elk from two days off, let alone an army!” She winces and presses her hands against the bloody hole in her chest. “They sound large. Too large to fight on the ground like honest fools. We need to gather what we can, cross the bridge, and hide out in the Fangwood. I—I know a few secrets that may keep us safe. Should probably figure out how to take down the bridge while we’re at it, else they’ll just march themselves across before we have the chance to hide.” Waiting a moment to see what your reactions are, she continues on, looking at your frightened family members gathered in the room, Everyone knows in case something happens to scatter to the wood, so we’ll likely see others trying to make a beeline there, she coughs and spits blood on the floor, Is there anyone else in the Inn upstairs? We should gather what supplies we can. Maybe make for the Trading Post and Orled’s to see what we can gather, maybe something to help take out the bridge in the meantime?

Abby struggles to her feet, her prosthetic leg giving her strength to brace her wobbly other leg on, Here, lead on, we’ll follow. I’ll keep everyone moving She adjusts the expertly crafted longsword on her hip, before pulling it a few inches from her sheath, she looks at the lot of you, Malgrim, Zdena, Ryll, any one of you want to carry her with you? Maltreaver hasn’t ever failed me, and she’s as well balanced as any blade I’ve ever held. She looks as serious as anyone who named their sword ‘Maltreaver’ ever could…

Jet waits an appropriate minute for Abby to offer you her blade, understanding the importance of offering your sword to another, before piping up. I’ve got some supplies in the kitchen, storeroom, and basement, we can take all of them with us to outwait these hobgoblins She motions toward the kitchen, but makes no move to open the door, instead waiting for those with weapons and armor to precede her.

Jayniss takes a position next to Abby, Abby, what about my brother and sister? and Drynn locates himself at the back of the group, with a broken stool in his hands. Malgrim is pretty certain that was the stool they were seated upon when this whole melee began….

Does anyone want to search the dead hobgoblins?


Male Human Shaman 4 34hp AC 15/14/13; Fort 3 Ref2 WIll8; init 5, perc 13

Caleb! Here! A dark grey owl swoops down from the rafters and lands on Sighere's shoulder. I can buy us some time and slow down anyone coming in the front door for a short bit. But I'm not terribly handy in a fight, the mace is more for show. He looks around again and motions at the shattered door. The owl takes off, through the door and out into the night.

Send Caleb out to watch from above and alert me if anything is heading towards the in (assuming he can covey a sense of danger to me if there is) He will be stealthy

Caleb will alert me if anything heads or way Sighere looks at the rest of the group expectantly.


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

While the humans (and such) are shuffling around doing humanish things, Premek zips over by the door into the kitchen and gives it a listen (assuming it's closed?).


GM dice:
????: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

Premek, give a perception check

Premek wanders to the kitchen door, and Caleb swoops over to the shattered lintel taking up watch outside the door.

Sighere, you get a sense of general unease from Caleb, but no panic at this time....


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10


Premek can definitely hear the sounds of hobnailed boots coming from the kitchen, and that may have been the sound of a glass jar of some type breaking, but it only sounds like one set of boots on the other side of the swinging door.


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Zdena glances back at her family and blanches a bit at their expressions. They've never seen me do something like that, have they?

She turns away quickly, and nods sharply at Ryll's directions. She doesn't like the round tables for a barricade, but doesn't immediately see anything better. She might still drag one over in a moment, but for now she's planting herself in the doorway and seeing if she can get an idea of what going on.

She hears Abby behind her offering up Maltreaver--that's a very nice weapon, she's admired it before--but waits to see if Ryll or Malgrim say anything.


Zdena plants herself in the doorway, with Caleb perched overhead, there are masses of hobgoblins churning through the market field on the town common, and a jagged black tower rises out of where merchant stalls should be. The sounds of the dying echo throughout the night, accompanied by the scattered howls of wolves, which chill you to the bone....

None of the hobgoblins seem to notice you immediately, although you think that standing backlit in a doorway may make you a target, or noticeable before too long.


Ryll looks surprised and pleased at Sighere's actions. Well that's better than a bandage any day.

She shakes her head at Aubrin's offer. Appreciated, but I wouldn't do her justice. And supplies...right. The bridge...how is it put together? It'll give us an idea of what to look for.

She addresses the question to Aubrin, but spares a quick glance around the room to see if anyone else answers.


M Cat Sorcerer 3 / Rogue(UC) 1, HP 28, AC16(FF12,T16), FORT 2, REF 7, WILL 5(6 vs illusions), INIT 4, Perception 9

Premek wriggles his nose and tail and wills a single Dancing Light into being right in front of the kitchen door. It is a red orb and is sort of bouncing up and down in the air to call attention to itself.

Then he hides.


F Half-orc Slayer 4, HP 41, AC 17(FF15, T12), FORT 8, REF 7, WILL 3, INIT 2(4 in Forest), Perc 10(12 in Forest)

Nevermind, tables it is, Zdena thinks. Just... worry about one thing, not *everything.*

Everything was a lot.

Everything was at least two cousins and an uncle halfway across town. Everything was Jayniss looking at her like maybe she wasn't so nice. Everything was a stone tower that wasn't there an hour ago and army of hobgoblins.

One thing was tables blocking the door.

I'm picturing standing one of these tables up on its side and shoving a second one behind to prop it. It won't do much, but it shouldn't take me very long.

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