Lost Mines Gr-A

Burgee releases an embarrassed chuckle as Rose nudges him, "Some couldn't even hear their own voices," he added.

Then he turned back to address Cirrus. "Again with the manners lad. You be the new one here. And as you can see," Burgee stands proud and then bows, "I am no man sir. I am Kenku!"  Burgee remains serious, "And as I have explained, and these folk can contest, I am no Spider of which you speak." He constrains himself as best he can and relies more on his charm. "So if we could forgo the hostilities for a moment, I would suggest we work together to try to understand this puzzle of who is who, and who knows what." Burgee turns to Gundren, "Sir Dwarf, have you no memories that can help us bridge this divide? It would seem this Cirrus, knows you and seeks your safety."

Gwen wasn't necessarily self-conscious about it. There were times when she had to play a part, and seduce someone so that the others could slip past, and sometimes that required her to expose herself just a bit.  However, it doesn't mean she wanted to do so willy-nilly. Her chocolate-mocha skin  mostly covered, thanks to the blanket that had been torn partially in anticipation of needing it. And this whole situation was starting to get out of hand. However as everyone was looking in one direction, likely everyone noticed the blue bard squirming to avoid looking in her general direction.

Lark looking around to everyone as Cirrus mentions the 'goblin bards' of the castle Huh? We haven't ran into any goblin bards within Cragmaw, aside from my astute self, and the last people I would be 'empowering' as you so put it..... would be the very people we're here to rescue poor Gundren from! Let alone the very allies of the enemies we fought off from the caves below our new house! Though poor Salazar seems to be afraid of the thing we made a deal with below it... Lark sharing a laugh as rose ribs Burgee for his repeated attempts to cast within a bubble of silence!

But after that moment passed, he pressed on... While I hate to be a braggart, I almost singlehandedly slew the redbrand leader, Glasstaff, and the rest of the redbrands within! Not a single soul was left in the wake of my passage! Though I would be demure to take the credit entirely, Salazar and the... late lady Alynoa... did assist me in this endeavor. But through it all, I don't recall seeing a blue man in an austere coat flitting about! Though perhaps you were just watching in an attempt to take the credit all for yourself?! Vagabond! Charlatan!

Gwen shifts a bit, looking around at everyone before speaking Well, I don't recall seeing him here before.... So I doubt this .. man is an enemy, or atleast not one of the ones for h- she caught the look in Roses eye, and sighed, seeing that she was.. once again starting to experience her typical jealousy.

Burgee finally simply asking Gundren his opinion. If I really think about it... He did suddenly appear out o' nowhere. And when we weren't being beaten or used in some fashion.... Ooof... he cries out, feeling a sudden soreness in his arm. I doubt he was jus' sittin there invisible. And No offense lad, but ye dinnae look like an accomplished mage of any stripe... So I doubt ye can tear open reality. Yet We all saw the air bein sucked into the room only to shit ye out like a turd -no offense lad- he rubs his beard as his eyes narrow a bit. 

This is just a guess, But normally portals don't have such a physical effect. Thanks to me studies of the Lost Mines I have some experience with magical phenomenon.... just then Cirrus chimed in....

Ach... Wait...Claribell? What... Gundren pushes forward throug heveryone except perhaps rose, who had at this point began approaching Cirrus herself. That's the name o' that famous tailor what lives out the way... I knew she had a child.... but he should only be a wee baby.... Not a fully grown.. Gundrens eyes shoot wide as a realization strikes him. Hold y'erself lass  he says, putting an arm on Rose's shoulder to halt her advance... Given the odd way ye made it here... what I know, the fact ye seem tae know about everythin but all the information is wrong to a degree... according to our friends here...

There's a magical theory that seems very plausible given the myriad planes in existence... Unless he's simply a grifter.... He may be a planar traveler... Like... the theory goes that we all live in our universe right? But that every possibility happens at once, but that aint possible in a single existence.. so there's an infinite number of of existences all taking up the same place.... in the ame space, but say you chose to become a blacksmith in your life.. there's an alternate version o' ye that didn't choose to becoem a blacksmith.... Per'aps.... Just maybe.. he came from one of these alternate realities? work here.

((OOC - Yes, your stone will still work here, And the time is currently... around midnight))

"I'm not going to lie to you Gundren. It sounds like your captors beat you over the head too hard. I think the more likely possibility is that Lark and his friends here drove out the redbrands shortly after my companions and I were thrown into their prison cells. Perhaps a night of rest in Phandalin will do you some good. And once we're in Phandalin I can sort out this confusing mess. I know the villagers will recognize me and can corroborate my tale. After all, I rallied their forces to fight against the savage redbrands that had been tormenting them for far too long!"

Some members of this group seem trustworthy, and some seem like they would kill him in the blink of an eye if he gave them a reason. Some of them seem to be trying to help Gundren, which makes them allies. Cirrus is hoping that on his way out of the castle he will find where Vimak and Bastille are.

Paavu nods. "Bearkiller." All he'd say by way of explanation to Cirrus' claims. The rest he listens to with varying degree of apparent interest. Although any attempt on Cirrus' part to pick up his weapons during the conversation is met with a stern and warning glare. Not that Cirrus doesn't wind up being glared at by the goliath after speaking again, following a heavy sigh. "Scrawny one wastes time and eat up Paavu's patience. You won't accept truths being told until return to Phandalin? Fine. We tie you up until time to go."

He slings Grol's morningstar so that it rested against his shoulder. "Or we knock out if prefer... Or, you help with checking Castle. See truth for self. These are scrawny one's choices. Not like? Paavu makes it for you. But not waste more time on prat-al while guards away. Already in for difficult fight as is." He pauses, letting the words sink in, then turns to Dot. She just gives this creepily big smiles back, and slinks away from her cluster to search the room for... something.

Without missing another beat, Paavu looks back to Cirrus. "Paavu know not why scrawny one is so obstinate. You, Son of Sky, bearing blood of beings from beyond this world anyways... But you see. Then, you make new choice. Learn and acquire way to return to these others of yours, perhaps even pass along what is learned here, so that can help better... or find way to accept. But this choice you must make eventually." On that note, unless stopped by the others, Paavu turns away, shaking his head on his way out the room. And if not waylay immediately after, he continues on for the intersection, trusting the others to follow shortly behind.

Dot eventually returns to the huddle with longswords sheathed in scabbards, and holding instead another bugbear's clubbing device.

“Well if those are the only options, I would be more than willing to help you clear out the castle if that’s what it takes to get Gundren back to safety.”

Rose hands over the armor to Gwen and allows her time to get changed. In the meanwhile Jaree tears out bits of fur from his set of armor and fashions a loin cloth to cover the private bits, and ties whatever is left of the blanket around his waist for added coverage. Once he is all set he stands up and stretches his arms and legs and sends a few test punches through the air. Well then. If you are all intent on clearing this castle, this one is ready to do what is needed. Do you need help out there? Or want this one to keep your dwarven friend here nice and safe?

Rose looks over to the rest of her current group and the Cirrus. Her eyes lingered on Lark, noticing his mark of Selûne was fading. While it would be nice to have more people should there be a fight, it wouldn't do to have Gundren be vulnerable. She also wasn't sure how many enemies she should expect, though given the limited resistance they had up to this point she suspected many more Goblins roamed the perimeter. Then there was this snake thing, whatever that was supposed to be, wandering about. 

Paavu, in the room the bugbear was hiding in, I found a scroll with a silence spell inscribed on it. At the risk of being called a paper mage I'm afraid my ability to cast spells is tapped out until we have a proper rest. So we may have to rely on this scroll. If Burgee has the energy to conjure up another fog cloud, we could continue the plan that's worked thus far, though Burgee that means you won't be able to rely on other spells. Lark too. But that brings me to my suggestion. Lark, I'd like you to stay here with Gundren, we can leave either Dot or Ja'Ree here to protect you both. Whoever doesn't remain here on guard duty can come with us to search the rest of the castle. Once we can ensure a safe exit, we will regroup and head back to Phandalin. With Lark here, he can continue to trick the hobs into thinking hes their leader. Misdirect them if need be. Dot and Ja'Ree are both accomplished fighters in their own right and can help us clear out Hobs. Just depends on if we want stealth or pure strength. Rose turns to the group to await any further input before finally turning back to Gwen. And Gwenny, I'll leave it to you to decide if you want to stay here or not. We still need to find you a weapon. Or your viol or other instruments If they weren't destroyed.

Gundren nods in agreement with the general sentiments. Aye. We can clear up this mess later. When we're in less of a precarious position. Nor would I willingly have left without me map. Which, Unless the drow slut found it n' took off with 'er, should still be here somewhere, where me other supplies are. I learned they took me stuff and probably Sildars as well. While I'm on that topic... Mr. Uh.. Cirrus? was it? I dinnae recall any folk by the names "Vimak" nor "Bastille" either.

Gwen taking the armor and... asking everyone to move out of the general area where she was imprisoned, and Cirrus appeared so she could get 'changed' properly without prying eyes as everyone else began to discuss things, and waiting until everyone complied or.. Rose 'made' them comply!

Gwen listening to Roses short speech when it was being detailed. Are you calling me a coward Rose? Think I can't fight just because i don't have a weapon? I thought you knew me so much better than that.... she says, sounding entirely serious - And pulling it off rather well; the whole 'hurt at your words and pouting because of it' act. Of course I'm going with you. Kill a goblin and I'll take its weapon. Though the ones among the bodies already dragged in here were of far too inferior quality.... So we'll just have to keep looking. Something like Dotty has but.. smaller would be preferred. she says, noting that Dots weapons were better than the Goblins tiny, thrown together weapons. Her voice as silky as ever, lilting like a sunlit rose in the evening sky.

So to make sure we're all clear -  Gundren says, butting in. You'll leave the goblin fellow here... As well as one of the other prisn'ers. While the rest o' ye traipse around the castle, correct? Gwen finally coming around the corner wearing her armor. it was clearly a little too small for her, as she was much taller than average, but it fit just enough to hide what needed to be hidden. And keep her warm, in most places. Mhm~ And I'll be going with the little flower. But with Ja or Dotty, this clearly capable little green man~ As well as the dwarf, they should be fine long enough for us to pincer them between our two groups. So, Lets get this show on the road, shall we lovelies and gentleman? Besides, It seems big boy over there is already on the way out~

Inevitably, whomever did end up following Paavu the Impatient out, would see him once more head to the southernmost door, as if to reaffirm what he already saw. The southernmost door heading back outside to a very steep staircase, wit ha 'wallguard' likely to protect from arrows on the way up or down fro man outside attack. But after determining it was just an exit.... He shifted his focus to the other door just a few feet away. Carefully pushing the door open, but making it creak regardless, the door swings open, and Paavu is able to see a very large room.. likely a mess hall of some sorts, Filled with Goblins. Though they all look like cooks, they are all wearing weapons nonetheless.... In the same instant that Paavu saw the fattest looking goblin he'd ever seen, their eyes met.

Ah! Intruders! They're really here! They snuck past the guards outside! To arms you little shits! Or I'll cook you next!

Prior to the door opening...

"Clear the castle it is for ye then," Burgee says to Cirrus, "Perhaps you stick tight to the big guy and me for a moment. We all build a little trust. Together." Burgee leans over towards Rose, "I've got a few tricks left lass, but we'll need to be careful about it." He gives a wink to Rose and nods towards Paavu, "And there 'e goes. No time a wastin'"

And then the door...

Burgee was hot on the heels of Paavu when he opend the door. "Did you miss the careful part there bigs?" Burgee touches one of the storm symbols on his staff as he makes a low baritone whistle sound and a bank of fog rolls up behind the cooks to deter entry from any that may be behind. At the same time, a gust of wind lifts Burgee up momentarily, landing him softly beside Paavu. "Well scrapper," he says to Paavu, "this what you were after?" He looks up at the goliath hoping they know what they are getting into. "You take lead. Little friends follow," he adds to let him know that Burgee is there to support whatever may come next.

I think Cirrus would follow Paavo, albeit a little surprised that the plan is happening seemingly so quickly. What I would like to know is how many goblins are in this room, is there are any exits other than the one we’re standing at, and who looks like the biggest threat to us? And also how far away is the fat goblin?

Rose, upon seeing the Goblins and hearing them call, would sigh and prepare to run in behind Paavu striking whatever Goblin is closest if possible 

Possible attack? Attack: 7 Damage: 5

Ja'Ree will also enter the room running around to get to the furthest Goblin and if there are any block any rear entrances. If possible he will attack as well with his claws. Attack: 15 Damage: 7

 Paavu bursts in, followed swiftly by Rose, who moves over to the side, to allow other allies to come through, Jaree taking full advantage of this, as he disengages through the enemies, and flies at the crumbled pathway, deftly dashing between the small horde of Goblins to block off the exit - or potential entrance..

Rose wasting no time, and seconds after slipping beneath Paavu's legs, goes straight after the fat gobbo with her war-hammer...Landing a solid blow right in his fat gut.... Her war hammer actually bouncing off of it after her hit however, nearly hitting her in her own face. The fat goblin keeling in pain.

Once Ja'ree was in place, feeling spunky... he attempts to do a mid-air spin-kick, to show off, but the goblin simply ducks it, and as Ja'ree lands near the debris in the hallway, losing his footing, and twisting his ankle.... Falling prone.....

Just as everything is starting to blow into motion...., Burgee's fog cloud rolls into the room, once more obscuring the area to the  extent of [Tooltip Not Found]ing everyone within the room, as the room fits exactly it's space, except the very tips of the corners. This means anyone inside the room, or attempting to look inside the room is blinded.

Everyone except Rose, Burgee, and Ja'Ree may take their actions.

 Paavu had just scoofed at Burgee's comments. He had already given plenty of warning before about the time crunch, and was not up for spending ten thousand years sorting the feelings of a stubborn Genasi. Not with the main force gone, but with every possibility of returning an hour too soon. "No. Not what wanted at this point. Mockingjay." He states gruffly, feeling forced in that moment to activate the runes of prophecy among his armor.

"And use Paavu's voice again, and Paavu break beak." He warns as he strode forth ready to lay into to the goblin to his immediate 'fore with Grol's Morningstar. Then with it hopefully downed, he'd rush the next ones,

Bonus Action: Activate Uvar Rune.

 Action: Grol's Morningstar.
To Hit: 22 For: 6 non-magical bludgeoning damage to goblin left of Paavu.
(Burning reaction to make it a straight roll using the Uvar Rune)

Movement: To D-4.(if above slain. If not, staying put)

Adrenaline Surge:

 Action: Grol's Morningstar.
To Hit: 24 For: 11 non-magical bludgeoning damage to left most goblin.
(or same one as first attack, hopefully finishing it off.)

 Movement: To D-4.(if above slain)

(Edit - Thank you mehmen.. I forgot, Lark isn't there. Ignore Larks marker.)

Burgee is set aback momentarily by Paavu's comment, but quickly looks up to the goliath and speaks in very eloquent common, "My most sincere apologies good sir. The voice was meant as a way of flattery, but shan't be used again. Please forgive the offense." He looks back in the kitchen at all of the action and adds, "I'm here if needed," and as he looks through the doorway past the giant, he moves the fog cloud behind Ja'ree to conceal that exit/entrance so that the kitchen is all that is visible.

Cirrus is trying to stay out of the way as much as he can, but would like to try to step inside to help. Assuming he can see the fat goblin he will say "I never knew a turd could sprout legs and speak! will wonders ever cease?" Vicious Mockery. It must succeed on a DC 12 Wisdom saving throw or take 2 psychic damage and have disadvantage on the next attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.

(Also let's say he picked up his weapons before he left)

Paavu slamming into the Goblin that had only moments before been in front of the door, but seeing it still alive after the first pounding, follows up in a rage. The goblin finally becoming paste on the floor, as its blood seeps out, and spatters the walls. And with the path clear, walks over the corpse to harass the two behind it. Some slight fear growing in their eyes at the sight of the giant man and a deeper fear, that had already been there. Burgee shifting the fog away, to block off the entrances view once more allowing everyone to see within the room, while the door and crumbled hallway. (Sorry! got caught up in making sure the damage/map were good)

Burgee Allowing his power to surge once more, Seeing Paavu move, shifts into where he was, and allowing the others to slip in if need-be (passing through allies is possible, just difficult terrain) and seeing the goblin against the back wall near the center... fires a bolt of heat in his direction. The goblin however, manages to dodge out of the way at the last second as the fire melts into the old stone.

Cirrus moves where Burgee was, trying to use the door itself as cover, his weapons currently sheathed. The fat goblin reels but manages to stay standing, screaming out at the pain in its head. Gwen shifts in between Cirrus, pressing against him  momentarily as she too tries to fit through the door. Seeing the fat goblin still up, she points her finger at the ground Let the trembling earths hunger be sated! twisting her pal up, and crushing it into a fist... and within a moment..... the ground beneath them crumbles and roils rapidly a small, localized tremor... Her words commanding the ground itself.

The fat goblin tripping, while the other one manages to leap onto the wall just in time. The fat goblin slipping so hard, that when his head hits the ground, a sharpened piece of flagstone goes through the back of his skull, killing him.

The fog seeping through the door and around the corners. Obscuring the general area of the entire pillar there. The goblins seemed ready to fight as they had been commanded. That deeper fear that Paavu had seen moments ago seeming to fade, with a glimmer of hope the moment they all saw the fat goblin fall. As if on practiced command, every single one of them dropped their weapons, and disengaged from where they were, Running as fast as they could  to where Ja'ree had slipped moments before, but realizing they couldn't pass.... panic began to spring once more..... All of them looking around before finally falling to their knee's, shaking, and saying in [goblin]... Please.. let us go! Yerg treat like slaves, beat us.. kill us.. cook us... Make us fight you 'or else'

Ja'Ree having gotten up, looking to the others in confusion but readying an attack should they choose to finish them off.

(did my spell do anything?)

Burgee looks to his companions,  "I have  no need for more bloodshed, but also no trust in these gobs. We could restrain them here or march them off to the woods. But they cannot be loose," he adds finally as his grip tightens around the staff he carries, "But if those aren't options..."