On the western shore of Faerûn along the Sword Coast a thin strip of civilization stretches, where widely spaced cities are arranged like beads on a string. A combination of roads and wagon tracks loosely connect the cities that reach from Luskan in the north to Calimport in the south, passing through Neverwinter, Waterdeep, Baldur's Gate, and other great ports along the way. Somewhere near Baldur's Gate and far south of Neverwinter lies the town of Greenest. Greenest was founded by the halfling Dharva Scatterheart, a rogue who fancied herself the queen of the Greenfields. Scatterheart passed away without ever achieving that level of eminence, but her town grew into a thriving community.
Its success isn't surprising. Greenest is the only town of any size astride the Uldoon Trail, the most direct road between the eastern cities of the Dragon Coast, Cormyr, and Sembia, with the Coast Way running south to the great cities of Amn, Tethyr, and far Calimshan. The trade caravans that pass through Greenest bring gold to the town's merchants and craftsfolk, and Governor Nighthill runs the town at the behest of the inhabitants.
Our story begins here, with you traveling to Greenest from the southwest, meeting up with the other party members along the road. You bump into one another and begin telling brief tales of who you are and why you seek Greenest. Unaware of what you approach...
This will be the beginning of our first adventure! Some simple rules:
Please use the point buy system in the DDB character creator, utilizing home-brew content and the shared content I provided
All characters start out at lvl 1 with basic equipment
No evil characters please
Your HP may be fixed or manual as you wish, just be honest with your dice rolls ;)
We will be using the milestone leveling system for this adventure
Please read the forum FAQ in the PbP forums for general things, it's actually quite helpful
I would like to see one post a week to start, more if you become bored, and don't wait for my response when we get to battles to tell you if you hit successfully. Describe your attack, roll your hit and damage, and I'll let you know if you're successful and what the result is (unless it's a well-known monster that I quick link, then you'll probably see if you hit)
I own the physical book of HotDQ and will make all the content private home-brew style (which is a lot of work on my part, but I'm not paying for it twice!) so be patient with me if something seems terribly wrong... it's probably a typo
Your first post should be who your character is and a little backstory. If you want to dive deeper into your character and have an elaborate story for them, please PM it to me. You're on your way to Greenest, traveling Northeast, and begin chatting with each other along the road to set the scene. Once everyone has a little intro I'll begin the adventure anon!
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DM "Journey Unto Chaos!" DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen" Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
As the Caravan wended its way Northeast, Kyros moved easily amongst the travellers. He eyed them surreptitiously, sizing up who among them might offer good sport. A few stood out above the rest, but by and large, this wasn't a fighting crowd. So he mingled, either juggling his handaxes nonchalantly as they moved or recounting the wondrous legends of the Mighty Heroes of Old at dinner. His favorite story was that of the Great Garwhane, an Orcish Warrior who quested tirelessly and trained relentlessly, unto a magnificent duel of fate and fortune with his greatest Rival! Kyros' eyes always burned with passion as he would retell the tale, time and again.
"And soon we shall arrive at Greenest," he projected over the crowded campfire in closing, "where I, Kyros of Clan Draveskobrinzhao, shall continue on my own Quest to Greatness!" Kyros arose triumphantly, brandishing one clenched claw overhead. "Heed ye all well, forsomeday soon even You," he paused to wink at a few rapt admirers, "may claim some fame of your own, by virtue of your mere presence here with me tonight!" Kyros lavished a grin upon the audience as he bowed, and the ruddy light reflected dramatically off his bronze scales as his brilliant yellow and green eyes scanned the crowd for an avid listener.
Talien walked quietly, silently almost, as the caravan made its way along the road, holding a silent conversation with a stray cat who had fallen in line with the group. He walked with his head down, and his hood draped over his long golden braids. He dodged juggled axes from a boisterous, yet seemingly playful and respectable Dragonborn, who was weaving his way through the crowd; Talien smirked as he passed.
“Yes, we’re all headed to Greenest. I’ve got a bit of business there myself. Lately there has been some unease among the Grove, surely you’ve noticed as well?”
“Of course, but we cats do not worry ourselves with the affairs of Druids, nor any other folk for that matter. Though we respect you and appreciate your love of our world, we leave your concerns to you.”The cat kept pace with Talien as they strode down the road, breaking off from time to time, but always returning to Talien’s side, licking his lips.
Talien pulled his hood down tighter as the winds picked up, and tightened his pack. He walked with a quarterstaff, using it as a walking stick, and a crossbow strapped securely to his pack. As night approached and the caravan slowed, camps began to arise and Talien found himself sitting around a campfire, cat in his lap, listening to the axe-juggling Dragonborn, (Kyros, he had just learned) boast of a “Quest to Greatness.” Talien couldn’t help but smile as he listened, now warm by the campfire, and the cat purring in his lap. These were good folks to be surrounded by, and he felt at ease for the first time since leaving his Grove.
Archibald trudged forward, his head still throbbing from the night before. Through the fog of his hangover, his mind kept replaying the dragonchess games from the night before. The mistakes he made now glaringly obvious, the bets he placed now clearly foolish. The coins in his purse jingled mockingly, reminding him, step by agonizing step, how little money he had left. They weren't far from Greenest though, he kept telling himself that the answers to his problems might be found there. He kept on, but before long the relative tranquility of the morning was shattered.
“Have you ever heard the story of the Great Garwhane?” a voice boomed nearby.
Archibald reeled, “Gods, must he be so loud?” but without anything better to do, and without much choice in the matter, he listened as the Dragonborn blustered on. By the time they made camp for the night, Archibald had decided this 'Kyros' was one to keep an eye on. The “Quest to Greatness” Kyros kept bringing up was interesting as well, perhaps it could lead to the answers he sought.
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Asher
Archibald - Human Rogue - lvl 1 "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Lias walked steadily, her feet keeping an even pace in the middle of the crowd. She kept her eyes forward, taking note of the people around her but not making eye contact. Not everyone was happy to be walking with a half-Orc, but they tended to avoid conflict when they noticed the bagpipes thrown over her shoulder. That was fine with her.
"We must be getting close to Greenest. I hope that inn is still looking for a musician," she thought. Being on the road had been good for her music- she had several new songs about caravans, and false accusations of sheep-stealing, and a really zippy number about outrunning a storm. It would be nice to be back in a town, where she could do the inn circuit and tighten up her new material. She started whistling a tune to go with her footsteps - that Kyrios fellow had been going on about his Quest to Greatness for days now. Maybe there was a song in it after all...
As the road you have been following winds lazily about the grasslands the caravan crests a knoll just as the sun begins to set. Greenest is seen just a couple miles ahead... but instead of the pleasant, welcoming town you expected, you see columns of black smoke rising from burning buildings, running figures that are little more than insects in the distance, and a dark, winged shape wheeling low over the keep that rises above the center of town. Greenest is being attacked by a dragon!
Some of the caravaners begin to panic and murmurs of disbelief quickly crescendo to cries of fear. "I'm not going down there! What do we do now?! Are any here warriors? I wish we had soldiers. I sure hope that gloating Dragonborn can fight..."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!" DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen" Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
The caravan had stalled as the reached the top of a small knoll at dusk, and Kyros figured they were just planning on setting up camp once more, as he thought which story to recite for the evening. But a murmur rose and unease cut through the travelers like a scythe reaping a field of grain as it swayed in the evening breeze. "A Dragon is attacking Greenest!" he heard the panicked cry from up ahead, and pushed his way through the crowd. Reaching the hilltop himself, he saw it all laid out, Villagers running and screaming in the distance, and a great beast circling low overhead, wheeling between the columns of smoke marring the evening sky. His blood piqued, and he turned to face the caravan without hesitation.
"Friends! Fellow Travellers!!" he roared to the anxious crowd, "There before us, a great and foul monster plagues the fair town ahead! Greenest lies beleaguered by a foe most heinous and likely far beyond the skill of its own defenders. Those among you who are staunch in spirit, and able at arms, I bid you to follow me, to save the citizens! Fate has granted us a chance this day, for Honor and Glory!!" His eyes blazed hungrily at the thought, "And I, Kyros, shall slay that overgrown knave myself!! To Victory!!!" He lifted his greatsword overhead in climax, turned on the spot, and sprinted down the hillside to confront his Fate and Fortune without waiting to see if any would rally to his call.
Ever since their last camp, Talien had been thinking of all that was before him. Greenest was a hub for travelers, somewhere he could gather valuable information from the adventurers, traders, and bards who made their way through there. Perhaps Kyros, the stately Dragonborn he had listened to the night before, could also offer some assistance and information.
As the sun was meeting the horizon, Talien began to slow down and prepare himself for another deep meditation. As he unpacked, he heard shouts rising up from the front of the party. Not the shouts of glee he had become accustomed to..."A dragon! Greenest burns!"
A dragon?!Thought Talien. Just then Kyros began to shout and rally the caravan to aid Greenest. Talien clutched his pendant that hung around his neck and spoke a Druidic prayer in the ancient language. The pendant was his Focus for his Druid magic, a ring fashioned from oak with a thin length of yew weaved around its circumference and sprigs of juniper running through its center in the shape of an eye; it glowed a faint green as he spoke the ancient words. He ran up behind the Dragonborn, who was now at full sprint. The Dragonborn was swift, but he was able to keep pace rather well. "I'll aid as best as I can! You are noble, Kyros, foolhardy, but noble; you'll never be able to take down that dragon alone. Let us hope that others heed your call."
As he ran off with the dragonborn, Talien felt a thought enter his mind. It was a familiar voice, "Be careful, Talien. I'd very much like a warm lap to lie in later tonight, so don't go getting yourself killed by a dragon."
"A dragon!" A dragon?! Lias' concentration on her new song's chorus was broken by the sounds of alarm coming from the travelers before her. Greenest was under attack! She elbowed her way politely forward (many of the humans making way for her) to find Kyrios rallying fighters to the town's defense. Before she reached him he turned and dashed down the hill, followed quickly by...was that the Druid moving so quickly??
"Looks like they could use some reinforcements," she said calmly, reaching in her pack for her drum. "Will anyone else join me?" She eyed the crowd briefly, before turning and marching down the hill, beating a quick but steady tattoo on the drum. No sense in speeding after the others - they would need to have strength left for the dragon. Might as well keep a pace that any reluctant heroes could catch up to.
Archibald shook his head in surprise, “No no no, that's impossible.” he thought as he listened in closely to the murmurings of the crowd ahead. But sure enough, he kept hearing it. “A dragon is attacking Greenest!” a voice shouted. He could barely compose himself, there was no way it could be true. Nonetheless he kept going and saw it with his own eyes, the burning ruble amidst plumes of black smoke. The bloodcurdling screams left no doubt, Greenest was indeed being attacked by a dragon.
He could hardly believe things were happening this fast, but he knew he had to be ready. “Dragon... dragon... wait, Dragonborn!” he realized suddenly; he was sure he'd want to find that Kyros before whatever came next. He scanned the horizon to see Kyros and a few others rushing down the hillside toward the town. “Shit, shit, shit.” he panicked as he gathered his things and began to chase after them.
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Asher
Archibald - Human Rogue - lvl 1 "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Barreling into the town gates, Kyros is first to reach Greenest just as night falls. The only light is now from the half moon in the night sky and the fires burning about the parts of town. The combination casts a dim, flickering glow about the scattered remnants of belongings strewn across the streets. Cries can be heard in the distance, seemingly from all directions as they echo off the stone walls. The great shape of the dragon still soars overhead, its roar threatening various rooftops. There are other things in the streets as well... townsfolk scurry about, carrying prized possessions and bedrolls. A human child runs, wailing, up the Main Street dragging a straw doll. And other things, just as quick, but not running in fear...
Town Map (red line is your entrance path):
The keep looms above the center of town, and people can be seen filing into it frantically. Please roll insight checks and/or describe your entrance into the town and how you plan to approach!
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DM "Journey Unto Chaos!" DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen" Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
Talien caught up to Kyros just as he reached the edge of Greenest's borders. "Kyros," he whispered, "Look, a few others have rallied to your call. That half-orc drums a battle march and others followed! We should wait for them to catch up; no one of us can take that dragon alone, and it looks like we have company on the ground as well. Once the others get here, let's figure out the best way to deal with this threat, and make our way to the keep. I sense some dark magic at work here and we're going to need all of the help we can get."
OOC: I'd like to roll a perception check to see if I can figure out what we're dealing with on the ground (The creatures who are also running but not in fear): 19
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Kyros had raced towards his own future, a small elf falling into step beside him with ease. He smirked as the Elf had called him both noble and foolish in a single breath. In the distance, back at the caravan falling away behind them, a drum had started. Kyros felt exalted by the anthem, and his heart had raced in anticipation, seeking to outrun his own feet. He drew himself to halt upon reaching the gates of Greenest though, and Elf who had followed close behind bid him to wait for further reinforcements. He glanced back, and saw in the distance two more approaching, but he settling darkness gave little hint as to their capabilities. Though one was scurrying a bit frantically, as the other marched, their steps keeping time with the nearing drumbeat. However, where a dragon was involved time was of the essence, and he turned his attention back to the fore.
The half-moon and flickering firelight from burning buildings didn't offer much for Kyros to see anyways, though the great beast still wheeled overhead, darting in and out of sight above the roofs and smoke. The bedlam laid out before him took a few moments to understand, screaming villagers and crying children and cajoling cheers of revelry all intermingled, punctuated intermittently by the great roaring overhead. Kyros tried to take in the scene, looking first for some soldiery or guards near the gatehouse and then trying to discern any features of the dragon overhead as it flashed in front of the moonlight.
Talien crouched next to the large Dragonborn, wary of the dragon still lingering about. He whispered, "I am Talien, a Druid. I came to Greenest seeking answers, but I guess it's a fight I'll get instead. A dragon was certainly the last thing I expected to see upon my arrival."
"Aye, You are not alone on that count. Though I am not dismayed by this opportunity." Kyros' eyes flashed eagerly as they scanned over the burning city in front of them. "Greatness does not befall those who dwell in peaceful holds and safe harbors. Well met, Druid Talien. Do you know anything of the others presently following us?"
"I was travelling alone, I do not know any others from the caravan. I suspect we'll find out more about them soon however, I hear the drums getting closer."
Talien glanced behind him and thought, "I do hope the dragon is hard of hearing..."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Lias made her way to the two figures standing before the town. "Fellow travelers," she nodded to both of them. "I had hoped to make it inside the town before meeting an adversary. I am Lias Bluestone, a bard new to this area. Do we know what we face?"
"Well met, Lias! I am Kyros, and this noble Druid is Talien. Your drums have preceded you, and indeed inspired my every step thus far!" Kyros nodded as he bowed toward the Half-Orc. "I consider myself honored to find the company of such an artist before me! Unfortunately, there seems to be a fair amount more plaguing this town than just the dragon overhead, though we have yet to ascertain exactly whom the other offenders are. Though, I hope the blaggards find themselves stricken with fear at the fall of your every beat! At least until perchance, my own sword should fell them for good."
A small man sprinting towards the group caught Kyros' eye as he looked into the deepening darkness behind Lias.
Distracted by the conversation, you notice there are some fires, and some screams and some buildings... ;P
Talien:
Looking around you see that most of the fires actually burn around the houses, not on or in them. Bails of straw, wood sheds, and some stables were the most numerous victims. You also notice that the 'creatures' running around that don't seem to be afraid all have weapons or their arms are full of what appear to be trinkets, gold, or the like. Some are small creatures, brick red in color (at least in this light) with elongated snouts and pointed ears. Almost dog or fox-like they scamper about with the larger humanoids running from house to house shouting, causing disarray, and apparently stealing things. The dragon, in fact, doesn't seem to be doing a ton right now.
Kyros:
You see the fiendish humanoids running about harassing the townsfolk. The dragon wheeling overhead doesn't seem to be doing much more than roaring. The fires don't seem to be spreading well and most of the smoke actually rises from around the buildings, not within. Since you understand Draconic, you hear some of the dragons yells as "Flee!" or "Behold my terror!" but not much else. Most of it is primal roaring for effect.
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DM "Journey Unto Chaos!" DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen" Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
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On the western shore of Faerûn along the Sword Coast a thin strip of civilization stretches, where widely spaced cities are arranged like beads on a string. A combination of roads and wagon tracks loosely connect the cities that reach from Luskan in the north to Calimport in the south, passing through Neverwinter, Waterdeep, Baldur's Gate, and other great ports along the way. Somewhere near Baldur's Gate and far south of Neverwinter lies the town of Greenest. Greenest was founded by the halfling Dharva Scatterheart, a rogue who fancied herself the queen of the Greenfields. Scatterheart passed away without ever achieving that level of eminence, but her town grew into a thriving community.
Its success isn't surprising. Greenest is the only town of any size astride the Uldoon Trail, the most direct road between the eastern cities of the Dragon Coast, Cormyr, and Sembia, with the Coast Way running south to the great cities of Amn, Tethyr, and far Calimshan. The trade caravans that pass through Greenest bring gold to the town's merchants and craftsfolk, and Governor Nighthill runs the town at the behest of the inhabitants.
Our story begins here, with you traveling to Greenest from the southwest, meeting up with the other party members along the road. You bump into one another and begin telling brief tales of who you are and why you seek Greenest. Unaware of what you approach...
Overworld map:
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!"
DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
This will be the beginning of our first adventure! Some simple rules:
Your first post should be who your character is and a little backstory. If you want to dive deeper into your character and have an elaborate story for them, please PM it to me. You're on your way to Greenest, traveling Northeast, and begin chatting with each other along the road to set the scene. Once everyone has a little intro I'll begin the adventure anon!
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!"
DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
As the Caravan wended its way Northeast, Kyros moved easily amongst the travellers. He eyed them surreptitiously, sizing up who among them might offer good sport. A few stood out above the rest, but by and large, this wasn't a fighting crowd. So he mingled, either juggling his handaxes nonchalantly as they moved or recounting the wondrous legends of the Mighty Heroes of Old at dinner. His favorite story was that of the Great Garwhane, an Orcish Warrior who quested tirelessly and trained relentlessly, unto a magnificent duel of fate and fortune with his greatest Rival! Kyros' eyes always burned with passion as he would retell the tale, time and again.
"And soon we shall arrive at Greenest," he projected over the crowded campfire in closing, "where I, Kyros of Clan Draveskobrinzhao, shall continue on my own Quest to Greatness!" Kyros arose triumphantly, brandishing one clenched claw overhead. "Heed ye all well, for someday soon even You," he paused to wink at a few rapt admirers, "may claim some fame of your own, by virtue of your mere presence here with me tonight!" Kyros lavished a grin upon the audience as he bowed, and the ruddy light reflected dramatically off his bronze scales as his brilliant yellow and green eyes scanned the crowd for an avid listener.
My Characters:
Aracynth - Level 2 Dragonborn Paladin - Wins : 4 - Journey Unto Chaos
Kyros - Level 1 Dragonborn Fighter - Wins : 9 - Unconscious : 1 - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
Talien walked quietly, silently almost, as the caravan made its way along the road, holding a silent conversation with a stray cat who had fallen in line with the group. He walked with his head down, and his hood draped over his long golden braids. He dodged juggled axes from a boisterous, yet seemingly playful and respectable Dragonborn, who was weaving his way through the crowd; Talien smirked as he passed.
“Yes, we’re all headed to Greenest. I’ve got a bit of business there myself. Lately there has been some unease among the Grove, surely you’ve noticed as well?”
“Of course, but we cats do not worry ourselves with the affairs of Druids, nor any other folk for that matter. Though we respect you and appreciate your love of our world, we leave your concerns to you.” The cat kept pace with Talien as they strode down the road, breaking off from time to time, but always returning to Talien’s side, licking his lips.
Talien pulled his hood down tighter as the winds picked up, and tightened his pack. He walked with a quarterstaff, using it as a walking stick, and a crossbow strapped securely to his pack. As night approached and the caravan slowed, camps began to arise and Talien found himself sitting around a campfire, cat in his lap, listening to the axe-juggling Dragonborn, (Kyros, he had just learned) boast of a “Quest to Greatness.” Talien couldn’t help but smile as he listened, now warm by the campfire, and the cat purring in his lap. These were good folks to be surrounded by, and he felt at ease for the first time since leaving his Grove.
Archibald trudged forward, his head still throbbing from the night before. Through the fog of his hangover, his mind kept replaying the dragonchess games from the night before. The mistakes he made now glaringly obvious, the bets he placed now clearly foolish. The coins in his purse jingled mockingly, reminding him, step by agonizing step, how little money he had left. They weren't far from Greenest though, he kept telling himself that the answers to his problems might be found there. He kept on, but before long the relative tranquility of the morning was shattered.
“Have you ever heard the story of the Great Garwhane?” a voice boomed nearby.
Archibald reeled, “Gods, must he be so loud?” but without anything better to do, and without much choice in the matter, he listened as the Dragonborn blustered on. By the time they made camp for the night, Archibald had decided this 'Kyros' was one to keep an eye on. The “Quest to Greatness” Kyros kept bringing up was interesting as well, perhaps it could lead to the answers he sought.
Asher
Archibald - Human Rogue - lvl 1 "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Lias walked steadily, her feet keeping an even pace in the middle of the crowd. She kept her eyes forward, taking note of the people around her but not making eye contact. Not everyone was happy to be walking with a half-Orc, but they tended to avoid conflict when they noticed the bagpipes thrown over her shoulder. That was fine with her.
"We must be getting close to Greenest. I hope that inn is still looking for a musician," she thought. Being on the road had been good for her music- she had several new songs about caravans, and false accusations of sheep-stealing, and a really zippy number about outrunning a storm. It would be nice to be back in a town, where she could do the inn circuit and tighten up her new material. She started whistling a tune to go with her footsteps - that Kyrios fellow had been going on about his Quest to Greatness for days now. Maybe there was a song in it after all...
As the road you have been following winds lazily about the grasslands the caravan crests a knoll just as the sun begins to set. Greenest is seen just a couple miles ahead... but instead of the pleasant, welcoming town you expected, you see columns of black smoke rising from burning buildings, running figures that are little more than insects in the distance, and a dark, winged shape wheeling low over the keep that rises above the center of town. Greenest is being attacked by a dragon!
Some of the caravaners begin to panic and murmurs of disbelief quickly crescendo to cries of fear. "I'm not going down there! What do we do now?! Are any here warriors? I wish we had soldiers. I sure hope that gloating Dragonborn can fight..."
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!"
DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
The caravan had stalled as the reached the top of a small knoll at dusk, and Kyros figured they were just planning on setting up camp once more, as he thought which story to recite for the evening. But a murmur rose and unease cut through the travelers like a scythe reaping a field of grain as it swayed in the evening breeze. "A Dragon is attacking Greenest!" he heard the panicked cry from up ahead, and pushed his way through the crowd. Reaching the hilltop himself, he saw it all laid out, Villagers running and screaming in the distance, and a great beast circling low overhead, wheeling between the columns of smoke marring the evening sky. His blood piqued, and he turned to face the caravan without hesitation.
"Friends! Fellow Travellers!!" he roared to the anxious crowd, "There before us, a great and foul monster plagues the fair town ahead! Greenest lies beleaguered by a foe most heinous and likely far beyond the skill of its own defenders. Those among you who are staunch in spirit, and able at arms, I bid you to follow me, to save the citizens! Fate has granted us a chance this day, for Honor and Glory!!" His eyes blazed hungrily at the thought, "And I, Kyros, shall slay that overgrown knave myself!! To Victory!!!" He lifted his greatsword overhead in climax, turned on the spot, and sprinted down the hillside to confront his Fate and Fortune without waiting to see if any would rally to his call.
My Characters:
Aracynth - Level 2 Dragonborn Paladin - Wins : 4 - Journey Unto Chaos
Kyros - Level 1 Dragonborn Fighter - Wins : 9 - Unconscious : 1 - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
Ever since their last camp, Talien had been thinking of all that was before him. Greenest was a hub for travelers, somewhere he could gather valuable information from the adventurers, traders, and bards who made their way through there. Perhaps Kyros, the stately Dragonborn he had listened to the night before, could also offer some assistance and information.
As the sun was meeting the horizon, Talien began to slow down and prepare himself for another deep meditation. As he unpacked, he heard shouts rising up from the front of the party. Not the shouts of glee he had become accustomed to..."A dragon! Greenest burns!"
A dragon?! Thought Talien. Just then Kyros began to shout and rally the caravan to aid Greenest. Talien clutched his pendant that hung around his neck and spoke a Druidic prayer in the ancient language. The pendant was his Focus for his Druid magic, a ring fashioned from oak with a thin length of yew weaved around its circumference and sprigs of juniper running through its center in the shape of an eye; it glowed a faint green as he spoke the ancient words. He ran up behind the Dragonborn, who was now at full sprint. The Dragonborn was swift, but he was able to keep pace rather well. "I'll aid as best as I can! You are noble, Kyros, foolhardy, but noble; you'll never be able to take down that dragon alone. Let us hope that others heed your call."
As he ran off with the dragonborn, Talien felt a thought enter his mind. It was a familiar voice, "Be careful, Talien. I'd very much like a warm lap to lie in later tonight, so don't go getting yourself killed by a dragon."
"A dragon!" A dragon?! Lias' concentration on her new song's chorus was broken by the sounds of alarm coming from the travelers before her. Greenest was under attack! She elbowed her way politely forward (many of the humans making way for her) to find Kyrios rallying fighters to the town's defense. Before she reached him he turned and dashed down the hill, followed quickly by...was that the Druid moving so quickly??
"Looks like they could use some reinforcements," she said calmly, reaching in her pack for her drum. "Will anyone else join me?" She eyed the crowd briefly, before turning and marching down the hill, beating a quick but steady tattoo on the drum. No sense in speeding after the others - they would need to have strength left for the dragon. Might as well keep a pace that any reluctant heroes could catch up to.
Archibald shook his head in surprise, “No no no, that's impossible.” he thought as he listened in closely to the murmurings of the crowd ahead. But sure enough, he kept hearing it. “A dragon is attacking Greenest!” a voice shouted. He could barely compose himself, there was no way it could be true. Nonetheless he kept going and saw it with his own eyes, the burning ruble amidst plumes of black smoke. The bloodcurdling screams left no doubt, Greenest was indeed being attacked by a dragon.
He could hardly believe things were happening this fast, but he knew he had to be ready. “Dragon... dragon... wait, Dragonborn!” he realized suddenly; he was sure he'd want to find that Kyros before whatever came next. He scanned the horizon to see Kyros and a few others rushing down the hillside toward the town. “Shit, shit, shit.” he panicked as he gathered his things and began to chase after them.
Asher
Archibald - Human Rogue - lvl 1 "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Barreling into the town gates, Kyros is first to reach Greenest just as night falls. The only light is now from the half moon in the night sky and the fires burning about the parts of town. The combination casts a dim, flickering glow about the scattered remnants of belongings strewn across the streets. Cries can be heard in the distance, seemingly from all directions as they echo off the stone walls. The great shape of the dragon still soars overhead, its roar threatening various rooftops. There are other things in the streets as well... townsfolk scurry about, carrying prized possessions and bedrolls. A human child runs, wailing, up the Main Street dragging a straw doll. And other things, just as quick, but not running in fear...
Town Map (red line is your entrance path):
The keep looms above the center of town, and people can be seen filing into it frantically. Please roll insight checks and/or describe your entrance into the town and how you plan to approach!
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!"
DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"
Talien caught up to Kyros just as he reached the edge of Greenest's borders. "Kyros," he whispered, "Look, a few others have rallied to your call. That half-orc drums a battle march and others followed! We should wait for them to catch up; no one of us can take that dragon alone, and it looks like we have company on the ground as well. Once the others get here, let's figure out the best way to deal with this threat, and make our way to the keep. I sense some dark magic at work here and we're going to need all of the help we can get."
OOC: I'd like to roll a perception check to see if I can figure out what we're dealing with on the ground (The creatures who are also running but not in fear): 19
Investigation: 9
Kyros had raced towards his own future, a small elf falling into step beside him with ease. He smirked as the Elf had called him both noble and foolish in a single breath. In the distance, back at the caravan falling away behind them, a drum had started. Kyros felt exalted by the anthem, and his heart had raced in anticipation, seeking to outrun his own feet. He drew himself to halt upon reaching the gates of Greenest though, and Elf who had followed close behind bid him to wait for further reinforcements. He glanced back, and saw in the distance two more approaching, but he settling darkness gave little hint as to their capabilities. Though one was scurrying a bit frantically, as the other marched, their steps keeping time with the nearing drumbeat. However, where a dragon was involved time was of the essence, and he turned his attention back to the fore.
The half-moon and flickering firelight from burning buildings didn't offer much for Kyros to see anyways, though the great beast still wheeled overhead, darting in and out of sight above the roofs and smoke. The bedlam laid out before him took a few moments to understand, screaming villagers and crying children and cajoling cheers of revelry all intermingled, punctuated intermittently by the great roaring overhead. Kyros tried to take in the scene, looking first for some soldiery or guards near the gatehouse and then trying to discern any features of the dragon overhead as it flashed in front of the moonlight.
Investigation : 14
"And how shall I address you, my cautious yet expedious comrade?" He offered to the Elf, while examining his surroundings.
My Characters:
Aracynth - Level 2 Dragonborn Paladin - Wins : 4 - Journey Unto Chaos
Kyros - Level 1 Dragonborn Fighter - Wins : 9 - Unconscious : 1 - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
Talien crouched next to the large Dragonborn, wary of the dragon still lingering about. He whispered, "I am Talien, a Druid. I came to Greenest seeking answers, but I guess it's a fight I'll get instead. A dragon was certainly the last thing I expected to see upon my arrival."
"Aye, You are not alone on that count. Though I am not dismayed by this opportunity." Kyros' eyes flashed eagerly as they scanned over the burning city in front of them. "Greatness does not befall those who dwell in peaceful holds and safe harbors. Well met, Druid Talien. Do you know anything of the others presently following us?"
My Characters:
Aracynth - Level 2 Dragonborn Paladin - Wins : 4 - Journey Unto Chaos
Kyros - Level 1 Dragonborn Fighter - Wins : 9 - Unconscious : 1 - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
"I was travelling alone, I do not know any others from the caravan. I suspect we'll find out more about them soon however, I hear the drums getting closer."
Talien glanced behind him and thought, "I do hope the dragon is hard of hearing..."
Lias made her way to the two figures standing before the town. "Fellow travelers," she nodded to both of them. "I had hoped to make it inside the town before meeting an adversary. I am Lias Bluestone, a bard new to this area. Do we know what we face?"
Investigation: 6
"Well met, Lias! I am Kyros, and this noble Druid is Talien. Your drums have preceded you, and indeed inspired my every step thus far!" Kyros nodded as he bowed toward the Half-Orc. "I consider myself honored to find the company of such an artist before me! Unfortunately, there seems to be a fair amount more plaguing this town than just the dragon overhead, though we have yet to ascertain exactly whom the other offenders are. Though, I hope the blaggards find themselves stricken with fear at the fall of your every beat! At least until perchance, my own sword should fell them for good."
A small man sprinting towards the group caught Kyros' eye as he looked into the deepening darkness behind Lias.
My Characters:
Aracynth - Level 2 Dragonborn Paladin - Wins : 4 - Journey Unto Chaos
Kyros - Level 1 Dragonborn Fighter - Wins : 9 - Unconscious : 1 - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
Lias:
Distracted by the conversation, you notice there are some fires, and some screams and some buildings... ;P
Talien:
Looking around you see that most of the fires actually burn around the houses, not on or in them. Bails of straw, wood sheds, and some stables were the most numerous victims. You also notice that the 'creatures' running around that don't seem to be afraid all have weapons or their arms are full of what appear to be trinkets, gold, or the like. Some are small creatures, brick red in color (at least in this light) with elongated snouts and pointed ears. Almost dog or fox-like they scamper about with the larger humanoids running from house to house shouting, causing disarray, and apparently stealing things. The dragon, in fact, doesn't seem to be doing a ton right now.
Kyros:
You see the fiendish humanoids running about harassing the townsfolk. The dragon wheeling overhead doesn't seem to be doing much more than roaring. The fires don't seem to be spreading well and most of the smoke actually rises from around the buildings, not within. Since you understand Draconic, you hear some of the dragons yells as "Flee!" or "Behold my terror!" but not much else. Most of it is primal roaring for effect.
DM "Journey Unto Chaos!"
DM "Hoard of the Dragon Queen"
Roondar Stumbleduck Ningel - Gnome Bard lv 1 "Scourge of the North"