As one who cared very little for lies or deception, Nadaar translate whatever's is spoken in goblin in quiet tones to Zack and Nadia. Throughout it all, he appeared calm, and would grasp a shoulder or motion with a hand for his companions to stay their hands when the shouting truly begins in force. Although even he cannot help but cringe every now and then from the Ogre's rather excitable actions and words. Nadaar doesn't fully understand why. But when the one goblin called Gum-Gum stupid, his veneer of calm takes a subtly threatening tone as he stared at the goblin. However, he said nothing, knowing -- or perhaps remembering just how volatile the situation was at the moment.
Once the group is on the move again, and at least a fair distance out of earshot of the accusing goblin, Nadaar pats Gum-Gum on the shoulder, and leans down to whisper in an ear in goblin.
"While I cannot promise protection, young Gum-Gum. If Hark try kill you. Or feed you to rats. Know I not let him do it without consequence. Help make Gum-Gum leader if must. For Gum-Gum. And, for safety of Human's here. Rest Assured."
With one final pet, he straightens out once more, and carries on with Wonder and Dragonborn lady in tow. If the path snakes them any closer to the Ogre, Nadaar whispers up to Rillex, "Psst. Might wish to get in my arms for now, my friend. Don't want Mr. Maybe Grabby Hands there to get'ya." He suggests, and slyly motions to the Ogre.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
((I hope everyone had a good Christmas and will have an amazing New Year!!))
Earlier, to Zach: The way he made his remark, and judging by his tone of voice, she knew he was joking, but regardless she scoffs and rolls her eyes. "Someone's gotta keep a look out while you two banter." It's hard for her to hold her annoyed expression, her lips only turning to a smile, a dead give away she didn't mean it as maliciously as it came out. "I just have a lot on my mind, is all, but don't worry, I'll be your eyes and ears if the lights don't last."
Now: Despite her cool visage, Nadia was struck with slight fear when she hears their tones go heated when she steps into the cave. When she hears Nadaar's translation, her face sours and it only hardens when she hears how they speak to Gum-Gum. If it get's down to it, I'm shooting that goblin there a new one, she seethes inwardly, eyes glaring at the goblins. Hijo de puta.
Zack didn't like the situation, and he would be lying if he ever voiced that he wasn't a little tense and afraid, after seeing the ogre The goblins, while having an advantageous position, weren't that much of a threat. And between the actions going on around him, and the translation his worries only grew. His training in the military is what allowed him to keep himself under control for now. Keeping his face firm but relaxed. Taking his coinpouch out, and withdrawing a single gold coin, he would throw it into the mud pit side-ways so the thin end hit the mud, making it sink faster. (athl for throw: 14) His hands casually slipping up to lace behind his head as if in support of it from falling behind him but to keep it near the hilt of his weapon, nonchalantly, as he watched how the Ogre reacted. A slight smirk appearing despite his fears, imagining something akin to a dog playing fetch.
Zack would follow Gum to where she led, but he had a feelign they were the Zhents, and this was a barn..
(Will try to post an update to this later today/late tonight. Edit: this will be a long post and I'll actually need my pc so I'll type something up tonight if I dont get mandated for OT)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Z:7 Nadia:16 Nadaar:18 (perception rolls)
Z:6 Nadia:24 Nadaar:2 (insight rolls: oof)
Gum-Gum solemnly beckons you all to follow, leading you to the north-west section of the cave, passing the Ogre in the mud bath as well as the small forest of stalagmites. The Goblin on the ledge see's both Nadaar and Nadia staring daggers at him, and at the sight of you both he averts his gaze to avoid making eye contact and resumes his guard of the main entrance. As you pass the mud bath, Rillex tucks himself against Nadaar, trying to stay away from the Ogre. Rillex stares at the ugly creature and hisses at it as Nadaar passes by. The Ogre in turn takes notice of the Tressym, but before it can react there is a *Plop* in the mud as the coin Zack tossed lands in the bath. The Ogre seems to forget about the Tressym all together as he goes to reach for the coin, and somehow manages to find it. He gives a deep, stupid sounding laugh to himself as he examines the gold coin, only remarking "Shiny" to the gold piece. At this point the large creature seems to preoccupies with his shiny trinket to really care about the lot of you. As you continue through the cave, but not far from the mud bath, you are all close enough to the stalagmites that you can hear what sounds like snoring coming from somewhere within the rock forest. Nadaar, with the light cast from your spell, you catch a brief glimpse of a second Ogre, this one sleeping in what appeared to be a den of some sorts within the grouping of rocks. As you pass by, the sleeping Ogre goes seemingly undisturbed, and the goblins on the ledges to your right watch you all carefully. The Goblins seem firm, and to watch you with a wary eye, though Nadia is the only one who can recognize these Goblins seem particularly on edge. While you might have thought their unease would be from the Dragonborn, or possibly the spells in use, or even Zack with his intimidating physique and weapon, it's very obvious to you Nadia, that the fear is entirely based on your presence alone. Zack, as you follow along, your thoughts turn to the Barn and the Zhents. The image of the Tiefling comes to mind suddenly, the look of shock and fear that painted her face just before the killing blow. Her death was quick and painless, so there is some comfort in that. And while your thoughts and feelings about her and her organization are your own, there was no denying that she and the rest of her group were lambs to the slaughter as you beguiled them to follow you to their fiery grave. Hopefully that is not whats happening here, but you can never be sure.
Gum-Gum takes you further north into the cave, passing by two tunnels that likely lead elsewhere in the cave, and finally taking you down a third tunnel in the north-west corner of the cave. At this point, there appear to be no other Goblins around, and Nadaar speaks quietly to Gum-Gum, though she doesn't seem to react to his words. You come up to a another intersection within the cave. To the left, a small tunnel leads to what appears to just be a open, unused section of cave, wholly unoccupied except for a lone Goblin standing guard who appears as though he would rather be doing anything but. He takes notice of the strange group passing by , jumping back with a start at the sight of Nadaar and again at the sight of Nadia. He says nothing to Gum or the group however and Gum-Gum continues you straight along the path which almost immediately opens up into a larger chamber, though the ceiling is only about 10ft high, the chamber itself is easily about 30 ft north to south, though much smaller east to west, causing a tight fit.
At the Northern end of this section of Cave you see three goblins, one male and two females, gleefully watching seven rats tear apart the flesh of a slain human. The human lies in a pool of blood, and is already missing large sections of flesh, some of his extremities already eaten down to the bone. The two female goblins, armed with actual weapons you noticed and not rusty or crude goblin made ones, laugh at the sight, while the male watches the rats like a person might watch a cute dog eat its breakfast. When the Goblin male looks up he shouts out in common. "Halt! Gum-Gum? Where is Beemot? And who are these big folk!? Why do you bring them here!? Big Folk go to pen with others Dum-Dum!" The two other goblins, which have now taken up position next to the Male and appear to be bodyguards, laugh at the joke at Gum's expense though say nothing and keep their hands on the hilts of their swords.
Gum-Gum stares at the ground as she speaks, and doesn't react to the chastising, seemingly used to it. "Boss Hark, Beemot dead, others in party dead. Killed by other big folk. Gum-Gum capture, bring here for Hark. Gum-Gum also bring their gold" as she says this she pulls out the small amount of gold she was given and offers it to Hark. Hark looks at the gold and then to the three of you and then back to Gum before letting out a loud roar of laughter. "Hahahaha. Gum-Gum no capture, they still have weapons stupid. More like they capture you!" Hark quickly snatches the gold from Gum's hand and appears to make a show of counting it, though you can't help but notice he has to recount several times before pocketing it. "Gold fine, but no food, and Beemot and others dead. Failure not go unpunished. Gum-Gum can clean Ogre den. Go! Or she can feed Ogre instead! Me wish to speak to Big Ones." With that, Gum takes a sheepish look back towards your group before turning around and going back the direction you all came in. Hark, a ugly little thing even for a Goblin, waits for her to leave before addressing you all. "Why you come here? Why not just kill Gum-Gum with others? You must want something yes? Me should have you killed and fed to rats for killing Beemot and others. Should do that for not killing Gum-Gum too. But willing not to. Now speak, why come here?"
More of the map revealed as you pass by and the path taken - Color codes for other room are the same and left as last known positions. Red H is hark and the G's are just new Goblins. Gum-Gum not on the map after she leaves and its a bit tight for space so you guys can place yourselves where you want. Sorry is quality is crap, images are phone edited so not the best I know, working with what I got and on time constraints atm.
Zack keeps a mental count of ever potential enemy they pass. Noting their locations and status. Seven goblins.. Two ogres... One sleeping, the other easily distracted.... but his eyes appeared to just be that of a visitor in a new place as they wandered taking in the sights. Passively listening to the goblin speak between Nadaar and Gum, even though it all sounded like garble to him. He was too distracted to notice the undertones that Nadia was noticing. All his focus was surface level while his thoughts kept imagining an ironic bit of karma with the Zhents, though it would be double irony that the Zhents effectively 'deserved' it while, he didn't feel Himself, Nadia, or Nadaar did.
Once they had made their way to the human being eaten, and his count had ended, with what little he could see in the light he stared for a long moment. Controlling himself as best he could. He had seen similar or worse a few times, even in his short career, and he thanked those dark moments for helping him now. Or else he might vomit like he did in his first few engagements.
Finally the one spoke out, shouting at Gum, in common luckily. And he listened to the exchange somewhat expecting it based on her behavior. And hoping to distract himself from the fact that someone was being eaten just over there... he looks at hark in the eyes, his own eyes glowing that strong, blue, as he kneeled down, opening his arms in supplication, but even at his smallest he was still likely atleast at-level with the goblin. In fact it was not us who killed your friends. But a group of people called the Zhentarim killed them all. If not for myself and these two here helping Gum-Gum hide, she would be dead too. The money my friend here gave her was an offering of peace from the town of Nightstone, though you might not recognize it by name... so the town your esteemed friends or servants.. whatever role they have to you, went to collect treasure from. They want their people back... atleast the ones who are alive.. still. They .. wanted us to broker diplomatic relations. Unfortunately the pin they sent me with was burnt in a fire as my friends and I here avenged your kin. But the leaders of nightstone that remain living, wish to offer you a trade. he says, pausing for a bit of dramatic effect, to let what he's said so far sink in.
They wish to trade you food. In exchange for the remaining members of the village, they will send to replace them, twenty five halflings to you every three to four days. The halflings have been mind controlled so they will be as docile as say.. a cow. And they should be easier to control than humans. And they will be full of fat unlike humans. And Nightstone is prepared to continue doing so for up to one year. So to sum up. You would get twenty five halflings almost twice a week, full of plump, juicy fat. In exchange for the remaining villagers, whatever their condition is. And you will not only feed your people for a year, they will FEAST well. And it will all be supplied directly to you. You wont have to hunt for food.
And in the eyes of your followers, you will become even more great. You will be seen as a god among goblins. You will become known far and wide for your guile, and your name will be rung across the lands in honor of your glory, intelligence, and power. You will become so much greater than you already are, Oh great Hark, King of the goblins. he bowed lower as if to accentuate his words, hoping that his ploy might work.
(Deception: 12) Spending inspiration for 'advantage' (8)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Nadaar is taken aback by the scene. While not necessarily a stranger to similar sights, a rage began to build once the shock faded as Gum-Gum and Hark conversed, culminating as an all to familiar warning: the smell of burnt cinnamon. Any chances of a genuine attempt at negotiations went out the window during this time. Nadaar yet found the strength to restrain himself to a flinty-eyed look by the time Hark's focus is back on the party, As he began feigning thinking carefully about his next few words, the black-scaled Dragonborn found himself turn to Zack's initial stepping up to speak with both surprise, mild annoyance, and curiosity playing in equal measure across his face.
However, once Zack began speaking of serving halflings... (Deception: 24) Nadaar slowly nodded in agreement; keeping his own budding amusement at the notion behind a straight faced facade of mere agreence. Although he made a mental note to take Zack aside later, and teach him in the intricacies of layering truths and knowing what light false hoods might enhance attempts at duplicity.
Assuming they survived the day....
By the time Zack looked about ready to finish his speech, Nadaar shoots Nadia a signalling look he hoped she'd read as 'look around for other exits' before fully turning on Hark with a smile.
"....If what my friend here is telling you sounds too far fetch, or at least too out there to believed, then at least consider this instead my friend. You been having trouble with elves, yes? Even with those Ogres out there for protection, those lazy ****s aren't always around to do their job, right? Well... if you free these humans, they can perhaps negotiate with the elves on your behalf, as I'm sure they've been rather rude by shooting you on sight. Now, you might think they don't like humans much better."
"BUT... its still a lot more than you. Enough for them to listen. ENOUGH for them to talk, and make it so that elves not bother you no more. Then, while you and your... women--"He glances over to the two female body guards, giving them dubious looks. "Made enough goblins and Ogres without bein' troubled by other elves OR human for a time... you strike in big, BIG numbers, and take over land for good. Have whole goblin kingdom under Hark. Might not even foolish Ogres by then, and not worry about them getting peckish and eating your goblins when you not looking so much."
As Nadaar finishes speaking in goblin -- all with the usual flaring hand motion of a flamboyant orator -- he bites deep enough into his thumb to draw blood, and clenches the same hand into a fist. "These things I, Nadaar of the Golden Tongue, swear to be a truth. Or so we say in my people's tongue--" He switches to a familiar curse in draconic haiku. The same curse both Nadia and Zack would hopefully remember from the barn... and take as the signal to strike, if they so wish to.
(If deception to mask casting a spell without their noticing, here's one: 24(+5 instead if performance))
((1st level): The spell cast was Bane on Hark and the two goblin girl guards(?). Charisma Save(DC 13) or suffer -1d4 to every attack roll and saving throw going forward)
Hark listens intently to the proposed offer though he appears skeptical. "Why humans want to help goblins? Not seem normal."When Nadaar nods and seems to back up Zack's claim however, Hark seems to relax and accept the offer as being a genuine one. In fact it seems the longer Hark is allowed to think on the proposal, the more excited he becomes, especially at mentions of him gaining power and becoming King of Goblins. Hark starts to laugh with excitement, shortly after the two guards join in laughing though it's clear they are only laughing because he is and don't understand what is going on. However all three of them fail to notice Nadaar's spell for what it is, and they all fall under its influence. Eventually Hark stops laughing and shouts excitedly "Hark, King of Goblins. Me like sound. Can have big folk from village released. But Hark need food to give to Ogre's, keep them loyal. Can give elf." He says pointing to Nadia. "Elf part of trade."He declares rather boldly and in a tone that says he isn't willing to hear any argument.
Nadia knew these two well enough to follow along with what kind of plan they were thinking of when they began speaking to Hark, and when given 'the look' she doesn't hesitate in taking a good look around their surroundings (if possible, I'd like to use my passive perception of 15, but if not here's a roll: 25) to find any hidden passage ways or exits. Her attention is brought back to the goblin when he says the word elf, her dark brown eyes glaring daggers into his when he so proudly suggests they feed her to the ogres. "Unless you want their eyeballs to be shot out by my arrows, that ain't happening, polla pequeña."
(I'll post a proper update later but for now I'll just say for reference that there is another way out at the south end of this chamber. There doesnt appear to be any secret or blocked exits. Where the southern tunnel leads is unknown.)
Zack grimaced, his plan to get the villagers out first seeming to crumble before his very eyes, and the nail in the coffin being when Hark mentions feeding her to the ogres, and his tone says negotiation otherwise would be impossible. Zack takes a breath as Nadia replies, before saying Sorry man, but I'm not giving her up.. Especially not to you.. forgoing his weapon, he lunges forward jumping over Hark in a rolling-leap, intending to jump over the goblin, as he also attempts to grab him from behind and put him into a strong Full-Nelson that would make the goblins arms burn and ache if successful, as well as, hopefully prevent the goblin leader from attacking as easily.
(I'm goign to assume due to the specificity that what I'm doing will be at disadvantage, as well as require an acrobatics roll due to the midair trick)
(Acrobatics: 13) (disadvantage roll if needed: 17)
(Athletics for grapple check: 18) (Disadvantage roll if needed: 22)
Zack leaps forward attempting to jump over the much smaller Goblin Boss but unfortunately the jump is poorly executed. Instead of jumping over Hark Zack simply lands into Hark causing them both to crash to the floor. Taking advantage of the confusion however and adapting to the situation, Zack quickly places himself atop Hark, pinning him to the ground. Though Hark struggles, Zack is simply stronger. As he goes down Hark cries out for help. The Giant rats, distracted from their meal, seem ready to defend their master as do the two goblin guards.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
With everything heading off to a... rocky but quickly fixed head start, Nadia shouts out to the boys: "No secret exits, just the southern tunnel!" Before taking out her bow and arrow and aiming to one of Hark's rats! (Which ever one is closer to hurting one of us).
(I'll try to get a map with the rats included on it up when I get home tonight. For now I'll just kill off the rats higher up the initiative order)
Your arrow whizzes by Zack and Hark, striking one of the ugly rats square in the head. The creature slumps over and twitches slightly before going deathly still.
As one who cared very little for lies or deception, Nadaar translate whatever's is spoken in goblin in quiet tones to Zack and Nadia. Throughout it all, he appeared calm, and would grasp a shoulder or motion with a hand for his companions to stay their hands when the shouting truly begins in force. Although even he cannot help but cringe every now and then from the Ogre's rather excitable actions and words. Nadaar doesn't fully understand why. But when the one goblin called Gum-Gum stupid, his veneer of calm takes a subtly threatening tone as he stared at the goblin. However, he said nothing, knowing -- or perhaps remembering just how volatile the situation was at the moment.
Once the group is on the move again, and at least a fair distance out of earshot of the accusing goblin, Nadaar pats Gum-Gum on the shoulder, and leans down to whisper in an ear in goblin.
"While I cannot promise protection, young Gum-Gum. If Hark try kill you. Or feed you to rats. Know I not let him do it without consequence. Help make Gum-Gum leader if must. For Gum-Gum. And, for safety of Human's here. Rest Assured."
With one final pet, he straightens out once more, and carries on with Wonder and Dragonborn lady in tow. If the path snakes them any closer to the Ogre, Nadaar whispers up to Rillex, "Psst. Might wish to get in my arms for now, my friend. Don't want Mr. Maybe Grabby Hands there to get'ya." He suggests, and slyly motions to the Ogre.
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
(Holidays. Will be updating tonight/tomorrow)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
((I hope everyone had a good Christmas and will have an amazing New Year!!))
Earlier, to Zach:
The way he made his remark, and judging by his tone of voice, she knew he was joking, but regardless she scoffs and rolls her eyes. "Someone's gotta keep a look out while you two banter." It's hard for her to hold her annoyed expression, her lips only turning to a smile, a dead give away she didn't mean it as maliciously as it came out. "I just have a lot on my mind, is all, but don't worry, I'll be your eyes and ears if the lights don't last."
Now:
Despite her cool visage, Nadia was struck with slight fear when she hears their tones go heated when she steps into the cave. When she hears Nadaar's translation, her face sours and it only hardens when she hears how they speak to Gum-Gum. If it get's down to it, I'm shooting that goblin there a new one, she seethes inwardly, eyes glaring at the goblins. Hijo de puta.
(posting)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Zack didn't like the situation, and he would be lying if he ever voiced that he wasn't a little tense and afraid, after seeing the ogre The goblins, while having an advantageous position, weren't that much of a threat. And between the actions going on around him, and the translation his worries only grew. His training in the military is what allowed him to keep himself under control for now. Keeping his face firm but relaxed. Taking his coinpouch out, and withdrawing a single gold coin, he would throw it into the mud pit side-ways so the thin end hit the mud, making it sink faster. (athl for throw: 14) His hands casually slipping up to lace behind his head as if in support of it from falling behind him but to keep it near the hilt of his weapon, nonchalantly, as he watched how the Ogre reacted. A slight smirk appearing despite his fears, imagining something akin to a dog playing fetch.
Zack would follow Gum to where she led, but he had a feelign they were the Zhents, and this was a barn..
(they = the party)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(Will try to post an update to this later today/late tonight. Edit: this will be a long post and I'll actually need my pc so I'll type something up tonight if I dont get mandated for OT)
Z:7 Nadia:16 Nadaar:18 (perception rolls)
Z:6 Nadia:24 Nadaar:2 (insight rolls: oof)
Gum-Gum solemnly beckons you all to follow, leading you to the north-west section of the cave, passing the Ogre in the mud bath as well as the small forest of stalagmites. The Goblin on the ledge see's both Nadaar and Nadia staring daggers at him, and at the sight of you both he averts his gaze to avoid making eye contact and resumes his guard of the main entrance. As you pass the mud bath, Rillex tucks himself against Nadaar, trying to stay away from the Ogre. Rillex stares at the ugly creature and hisses at it as Nadaar passes by. The Ogre in turn takes notice of the Tressym, but before it can react there is a *Plop* in the mud as the coin Zack tossed lands in the bath. The Ogre seems to forget about the Tressym all together as he goes to reach for the coin, and somehow manages to find it. He gives a deep, stupid sounding laugh to himself as he examines the gold coin, only remarking "Shiny" to the gold piece. At this point the large creature seems to preoccupies with his shiny trinket to really care about the lot of you. As you continue through the cave, but not far from the mud bath, you are all close enough to the stalagmites that you can hear what sounds like snoring coming from somewhere within the rock forest. Nadaar, with the light cast from your spell, you catch a brief glimpse of a second Ogre, this one sleeping in what appeared to be a den of some sorts within the grouping of rocks. As you pass by, the sleeping Ogre goes seemingly undisturbed, and the goblins on the ledges to your right watch you all carefully. The Goblins seem firm, and to watch you with a wary eye, though Nadia is the only one who can recognize these Goblins seem particularly on edge. While you might have thought their unease would be from the Dragonborn, or possibly the spells in use, or even Zack with his intimidating physique and weapon, it's very obvious to you Nadia, that the fear is entirely based on your presence alone. Zack, as you follow along, your thoughts turn to the Barn and the Zhents. The image of the Tiefling comes to mind suddenly, the look of shock and fear that painted her face just before the killing blow. Her death was quick and painless, so there is some comfort in that. And while your thoughts and feelings about her and her organization are your own, there was no denying that she and the rest of her group were lambs to the slaughter as you beguiled them to follow you to their fiery grave. Hopefully that is not whats happening here, but you can never be sure.
Gum-Gum takes you further north into the cave, passing by two tunnels that likely lead elsewhere in the cave, and finally taking you down a third tunnel in the north-west corner of the cave. At this point, there appear to be no other Goblins around, and Nadaar speaks quietly to Gum-Gum, though she doesn't seem to react to his words. You come up to a another intersection within the cave. To the left, a small tunnel leads to what appears to just be a open, unused section of cave, wholly unoccupied except for a lone Goblin standing guard who appears as though he would rather be doing anything but. He takes notice of the strange group passing by , jumping back with a start at the sight of Nadaar and again at the sight of Nadia. He says nothing to Gum or the group however and Gum-Gum continues you straight along the path which almost immediately opens up into a larger chamber, though the ceiling is only about 10ft high, the chamber itself is easily about 30 ft north to south, though much smaller east to west, causing a tight fit.
At the Northern end of this section of Cave you see three goblins, one male and two females, gleefully watching seven rats tear apart the flesh of a slain human. The human lies in a pool of blood, and is already missing large sections of flesh, some of his extremities already eaten down to the bone. The two female goblins, armed with actual weapons you noticed and not rusty or crude goblin made ones, laugh at the sight, while the male watches the rats like a person might watch a cute dog eat its breakfast. When the Goblin male looks up he shouts out in common. "Halt! Gum-Gum? Where is Beemot? And who are these big folk!? Why do you bring them here!? Big Folk go to pen with others Dum-Dum!" The two other goblins, which have now taken up position next to the Male and appear to be bodyguards, laugh at the joke at Gum's expense though say nothing and keep their hands on the hilts of their swords.
Gum-Gum stares at the ground as she speaks, and doesn't react to the chastising, seemingly used to it. "Boss Hark, Beemot dead, others in party dead. Killed by other big folk. Gum-Gum capture, bring here for Hark. Gum-Gum also bring their gold" as she says this she pulls out the small amount of gold she was given and offers it to Hark. Hark looks at the gold and then to the three of you and then back to Gum before letting out a loud roar of laughter. "Hahahaha. Gum-Gum no capture, they still have weapons stupid. More like they capture you!" Hark quickly snatches the gold from Gum's hand and appears to make a show of counting it, though you can't help but notice he has to recount several times before pocketing it. "Gold fine, but no food, and Beemot and others dead. Failure not go unpunished. Gum-Gum can clean Ogre den. Go! Or she can feed Ogre instead! Me wish to speak to Big Ones." With that, Gum takes a sheepish look back towards your group before turning around and going back the direction you all came in. Hark, a ugly little thing even for a Goblin, waits for her to leave before addressing you all. "Why you come here? Why not just kill Gum-Gum with others? You must want something yes? Me should have you killed and fed to rats for killing Beemot and others. Should do that for not killing Gum-Gum too. But willing not to. Now speak, why come here?"
More of the map revealed as you pass by and the path taken - Color codes for other room are the same and left as last known positions. Red H is hark and the G's are just new Goblins. Gum-Gum not on the map after she leaves and its a bit tight for space so you guys can place yourselves where you want. Sorry is quality is crap, images are phone edited so not the best I know, working with what I got and on time constraints atm.
(posting now)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Zack keeps a mental count of ever potential enemy they pass. Noting their locations and status. Seven goblins.. Two ogres... One sleeping, the other easily distracted.... but his eyes appeared to just be that of a visitor in a new place as they wandered taking in the sights. Passively listening to the goblin speak between Nadaar and Gum, even though it all sounded like garble to him. He was too distracted to notice the undertones that Nadia was noticing. All his focus was surface level while his thoughts kept imagining an ironic bit of karma with the Zhents, though it would be double irony that the Zhents effectively 'deserved' it while, he didn't feel Himself, Nadia, or Nadaar did.
Once they had made their way to the human being eaten, and his count had ended, with what little he could see in the light he stared for a long moment. Controlling himself as best he could. He had seen similar or worse a few times, even in his short career, and he thanked those dark moments for helping him now. Or else he might vomit like he did in his first few engagements.
Finally the one spoke out, shouting at Gum, in common luckily. And he listened to the exchange somewhat expecting it based on her behavior. And hoping to distract himself from the fact that someone was being eaten just over there... he looks at hark in the eyes, his own eyes glowing that strong, blue, as he kneeled down, opening his arms in supplication, but even at his smallest he was still likely atleast at-level with the goblin. In fact it was not us who killed your friends. But a group of people called the Zhentarim killed them all. If not for myself and these two here helping Gum-Gum hide, she would be dead too. The money my friend here gave her was an offering of peace from the town of Nightstone, though you might not recognize it by name... so the town your esteemed friends or servants.. whatever role they have to you, went to collect treasure from. They want their people back... atleast the ones who are alive.. still. They .. wanted us to broker diplomatic relations. Unfortunately the pin they sent me with was burnt in a fire as my friends and I here avenged your kin. But the leaders of nightstone that remain living, wish to offer you a trade. he says, pausing for a bit of dramatic effect, to let what he's said so far sink in.
They wish to trade you food. In exchange for the remaining members of the village, they will send to replace them, twenty five halflings to you every three to four days. The halflings have been mind controlled so they will be as docile as say.. a cow. And they should be easier to control than humans. And they will be full of fat unlike humans. And Nightstone is prepared to continue doing so for up to one year. So to sum up. You would get twenty five halflings almost twice a week, full of plump, juicy fat. In exchange for the remaining villagers, whatever their condition is. And you will not only feed your people for a year, they will FEAST well. And it will all be supplied directly to you. You wont have to hunt for food.
And in the eyes of your followers, you will become even more great. You will be seen as a god among goblins. You will become known far and wide for your guile, and your name will be rung across the lands in honor of your glory, intelligence, and power. You will become so much greater than you already are, Oh great Hark, King of the goblins. he bowed lower as if to accentuate his words, hoping that his ploy might work.
(Deception: 12) Spending inspiration for 'advantage' (8)
Edit: Oof.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Nadaar is taken aback by the scene. While not necessarily a stranger to similar sights, a rage began to build once the shock faded as Gum-Gum and Hark conversed, culminating as an all to familiar warning: the smell of burnt cinnamon. Any chances of a genuine attempt at negotiations went out the window during this time. Nadaar yet found the strength to restrain himself to a flinty-eyed look by the time Hark's focus is back on the party, As he began feigning thinking carefully about his next few words, the black-scaled Dragonborn found himself turn to Zack's initial stepping up to speak with both surprise, mild annoyance, and curiosity playing in equal measure across his face.
However, once Zack began speaking of serving halflings... (Deception: 24) Nadaar slowly nodded in agreement; keeping his own budding amusement at the notion behind a straight faced facade of mere agreence. Although he made a mental note to take Zack aside later, and teach him in the intricacies of layering truths and knowing what light false hoods might enhance attempts at duplicity.
Assuming they survived the day....
By the time Zack looked about ready to finish his speech, Nadaar shoots Nadia a signalling look he hoped she'd read as 'look around for other exits' before fully turning on Hark with a smile.
"....If what my friend here is telling you sounds too far fetch, or at least too out there to believed, then at least consider this instead my friend. You been having trouble with elves, yes? Even with those Ogres out there for protection, those lazy ****s aren't always around to do their job, right? Well... if you free these humans, they can perhaps negotiate with the elves on your behalf, as I'm sure they've been rather rude by shooting you on sight. Now, you might think they don't like humans much better."
"BUT... its still a lot more than you. Enough for them to listen. ENOUGH for them to talk, and make it so that elves not bother you no more. Then, while you and your... women--" He glances over to the two female body guards, giving them dubious looks. "Made enough goblins and Ogres without bein' troubled by other elves OR human for a time... you strike in big, BIG numbers, and take over land for good. Have whole goblin kingdom under Hark. Might not even foolish Ogres by then, and not worry about them getting peckish and eating your goblins when you not looking so much."
As Nadaar finishes speaking in goblin -- all with the usual flaring hand motion of a flamboyant orator -- he bites deep enough into his thumb to draw blood, and clenches the same hand into a fist. "These things I, Nadaar of the Golden Tongue, swear to be a truth. Or so we say in my people's tongue--" He switches to a familiar curse in draconic haiku. The same curse both Nadia and Zack would hopefully remember from the barn... and take as the signal to strike, if they so wish to.
(If deception to mask casting a spell without their noticing, here's one: 24(+5 instead if performance))
((1st level): The spell cast was Bane on Hark and the two goblin girl guards(?). Charisma Save(DC 13) or suffer -1d4 to every attack roll and saving throw going forward)
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
2 8 18
Hark listens intently to the proposed offer though he appears skeptical. "Why humans want to help goblins? Not seem normal." When Nadaar nods and seems to back up Zack's claim however, Hark seems to relax and accept the offer as being a genuine one. In fact it seems the longer Hark is allowed to think on the proposal, the more excited he becomes, especially at mentions of him gaining power and becoming King of Goblins. Hark starts to laugh with excitement, shortly after the two guards join in laughing though it's clear they are only laughing because he is and don't understand what is going on. However all three of them fail to notice Nadaar's spell for what it is, and they all fall under its influence. Eventually Hark stops laughing and shouts excitedly "Hark, King of Goblins. Me like sound. Can have big folk from village released. But Hark need food to give to Ogre's, keep them loyal. Can give elf." He says pointing to Nadia. "Elf part of trade." He declares rather boldly and in a tone that says he isn't willing to hear any argument.
Nadia knew these two well enough to follow along with what kind of plan they were thinking of when they began speaking to Hark, and when given 'the look' she doesn't hesitate in taking a good look around their surroundings (if possible, I'd like to use my passive perception of 15, but if not here's a roll: 25) to find any hidden passage ways or exits. Her attention is brought back to the goblin when he says the word elf, her dark brown eyes glaring daggers into his when he so proudly suggests they feed her to the ogres. "Unless you want their eyeballs to be shot out by my arrows, that ain't happening, polla pequeña."
(WIll be posting in a few hours, but LOL "I'd like to use my passive 15, but here's a nat 20 just in case)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(I'll post a proper update later but for now I'll just say for reference that there is another way out at the south end of this chamber. There doesnt appear to be any secret or blocked exits. Where the southern tunnel leads is unknown.)
Zack grimaced, his plan to get the villagers out first seeming to crumble before his very eyes, and the nail in the coffin being when Hark mentions feeding her to the ogres, and his tone says negotiation otherwise would be impossible. Zack takes a breath as Nadia replies, before saying Sorry man, but I'm not giving her up.. Especially not to you.. forgoing his weapon, he lunges forward jumping over Hark in a rolling-leap, intending to jump over the goblin, as he also attempts to grab him from behind and put him into a strong Full-Nelson that would make the goblins arms burn and ache if successful, as well as, hopefully prevent the goblin leader from attacking as easily.
(I'm goign to assume due to the specificity that what I'm doing will be at disadvantage, as well as require an acrobatics roll due to the midair trick)
(Acrobatics: 13) (disadvantage roll if needed: 17)
(Athletics for grapple check: 18) (Disadvantage roll if needed: 22)
Initiative: 21
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Nadaar:5 Nadia: 14 Hark: 7 G1:21 G2:6 Rats 1-3: 4 Rats 4-7: 20
Zack leaps forward attempting to jump over the much smaller Goblin Boss but unfortunately the jump is poorly executed. Instead of jumping over Hark Zack simply lands into Hark causing them both to crash to the floor. Taking advantage of the confusion however and adapting to the situation, Zack quickly places himself atop Hark, pinning him to the ground. Though Hark struggles, Zack is simply stronger. As he goes down Hark cries out for help. The Giant rats, distracted from their meal, seem ready to defend their master as do the two goblin guards.
(Order as followed: Nadia, Nadaar, Hark, G2, Rats 1-3, G1, Zack, Rats 4-7)
With everything heading off to a... rocky but quickly fixed head start, Nadia shouts out to the boys: "No secret exits, just the southern tunnel!" Before taking out her bow and arrow and aiming to one of Hark's rats! (Which ever one is closer to hurting one of us).
Attack: 26 Damage: 11
(I'll try to get a map with the rats included on it up when I get home tonight. For now I'll just kill off the rats higher up the initiative order)
Your arrow whizzes by Zack and Hark, striking one of the ugly rats square in the head. The creature slumps over and twitches slightly before going deathly still.
(Nadaar is up)
(Oh shoot, sorry urben, I forgot you roll initiative ~.~ my bad.)
Occassional Dungeon Master.