Dragon of Icespire Peak - Campaign 1

Inside G9

The twin wolves enjoyed the attention, milking it all from Kaemgen for as long as they could. The man had quickly figured out how to handle them almost to a complete natural level just over the course of interacting with them over the day. Although he had their undeniable attention and loyalty for the time being, McScathe obviously had not been paying attention to Adabra’s healing methods, at least not in a way that the skills would be transferable. He was terribly clumsy, and rougher than intended. The pups whined and howled as if he were hurting them, just for dramatics sakes. The sound carried through the halls until Kaemgen would calm them with a toy or treat. Obedient as could be, Castor would be able to follow right at Kaemgen’s side. As for Pollux, no matter how much he tried, he genuinely struggled from his wounds and wouldn’t be satisfied until the man finally picked him up and carry him. He’d be rewarded with slobbery kisses.

There really wasn’t anything to hide behind in this room. Scott would have to cower at the back of the group for cover.

Once the wolves completed their fit and were under control, the two guards on the ledge were able to digest the extent of Auric’s words. They’d relax their posture and stand down with a respectful bow to the dragonborn. “If you’re looking for hospitality experts and some healing, you’re going the wrong way.” They’d point behind the group, where they came from, towards the north. “If you’re looking for the bed chambers, you’re headed in the right direction.” He’d respond pointing to the west. 

The other gnome would give Facktoré the stink eye. “You are responsible for them since you vouched for them. Therefore you will be the one to report the damages and losses to the Kings. Expect more time to be added to your probation Facktoré.” As he spoke, his chin slowly raised up in disgust to the young gnome. “You’re dismissed.” He’d say in a commanding tone, then change his posture in complete disregard for her presence. 

After an awkwardly tense moment, Facktoré would pop her lips to herself to break the silence before quietly walking to the west doorway. ”I can send for Joybell while you have your audience with the Kings. She can arrange mending.” She’d offer with her head hung, staring at her toes. “There’s a rope bridge. It’s misty, but safest and easiest way to get there. Please take your time.” The young gnome would make sure to explain to the group before they’d make their decision to follow her to the Kings or not.

Spinning Blade Room G10

Mr. Dark bravely presses forward and tries his luck against the fans to get to the other side. He’d soon find out how sharp the blades really are, threatening to shred not only his gear, but his flesh and bones too.

Slice and Dice!
(Guidance good to go)

Dexterity Saving Throw!
(DC15 Damage: 22 on fail, or half on success)

Roll Call: Mr. Dark!

     "Chin up, young Facktoré.  You may need to report of the loss of some liquor, but you also can report the success of your machine and the successful killing of two infernal, shape changing monsters that made it deep within these caves despite the 'vigilance' of the guards, eh?  And you have envoys from the Mayor of Phandelin that you are bringing to the king with a dire warning who are all willing to vouch for you...  Now, the kings, please," Kaemgen would say, but giving a sad look to Pollux he would add "But please do send for this Joybell..."

     "You'll be fine, you big baby..." He'd whisper as he adjusted the weight of the wolf in his arms.  "We'll have you patched up in no time..."  

     As they continue on, Kaemgen would give a look around at the others amongst him and finally fully notice that Mr.Dark is missing...  "Anyone have a clue where he got off to?"

(For some reason I thought the button to stop the whirling blades was on THIS side....oh well...too late now!! :-D. ) 

Dex save DC 15 :  6 + 2

 (well....shit...inspiration time!!) 

11

Digging deep into himself for that extra 'oomf', Mr.Dark just about slips on the damp stone as he leaps, but the extra effort manages to get a good shove of, and stretches out as he leaps between the blades, going into a tuck-roll on the other side and then smoothly coming up onto his feet.  Still though, he got clipped by a couple and clutches his side.  

(Second wind healing : 2) 

He looks back at the whirling blades. "I'm going crazy. What am I doing?  Oh well. Get 'er done, as they say."  He talks to himself for a moment before pulling the lever.

As the guards posture relaxes, so does Scott’s slowly letting his arm return to his side. He lets out a snort hearing the gnome who shot him is on probation. ‘Well that figures’ he thinks to himself though says nothing.

”Not sure where he went off to. Certainly left us … in the dark… no that’s not right. Without a dark?” Scott shrugs and looks around at the rest of the group ready to go speak to the king of the gnomes. 

Facktoré would look up to Kaemgen to listen. Her eyes would flick over to the gold dragonborn gone blue butterfly princess. Him and his earlier words to her suddenly seemed significantly less hurtful. Kae's words had affect, but the young gnome would quickly tuck it away to bring back up her nonchalant facade when she'd look back to him. "Great! So you'll do all the talking to the Kings for me then." A large grin would grow on her face as she'd give him a good ol' friendly punch in the arm. With that she'd turn on her heels and saunter off with a skip before he could even think to get out of it. "And by the way, to answer your earlier questions, our Kings are married. No different than having a King and Queen." She'd point out. "I'll leave it to you to figure out who pitches."

The engineer would lead the group out of the cave to the rope bridge outside. Here you're all greeted by a roaring 60ft waterfall that plunges down into the river below, surrounding you in a mist. Facktoré flicks down a mini contraption from her headband that would wrap around one side of her cheek and end near her mouth. After a couple test taps, when she'd speak, her voice would now be projected loud and clear so everyone could hear her. She'd cross the bridge first to show that it's safe, with the emphasis on taking it slow. She'd signal for who to cross and when, making sure that weight would be properly distributed. Auric would be expected to cross first as he technically didn't need to use the bridge, but the gnome would caution him about his wings. They were butterfly wings, and being exposed to moisture too long could have some affects. Next was Xeno. Keeping his (useless) wings tucked in, he'd be able to maneuver the bridge safely.

"It's getting a bit crowded. Please hold." Facktoré would pause the others from crossing. "Let me open up the next area so they can move forward safely."

Thankfully for Kaemgen, he took the time back inside the cave to make the extra effort to bond with the wolves. It was evident the moment they stepped outside that having control and command over them was a deciding factor in how chaotic this seemingly simple task could have gone awry. Immediate distress fell upon Castor and Pollux. It was indicated by the droop in their ears, widened eyes and sag in their posture. The deafening sound of the falls caused distress for the twins sensitive ears, and the mist dampened their sense of smell. Trying their best to be good, the tiniest of whimpers would slip as they'd look up at the man with sad puppy eyes. They didn't want to disappoint him. Fighting their instincts, they'd wait patiently, trusting Kaemgen to direct them safely. Castor stood diligently at his side, one paw on boot. Pollux on the other hand just did his best not to squirm in the arms of his handler. He wasn't a light boy, especially when everything stops and he's 'dead weight'.

Facktoré pulls out a metal rod and clicks a button that causes it to extend as she moves to the cave entrance of the next area. In the larger eastern part of the room contains two rapidly spinning devices that look like turnstiles fitted with stacks of long, sharp blades spaced 1 foot apart. The northern turnstile spins counterclockwise, while the southern one spins clockwise. At least, that's what she was expecting. Instead, everything was quiet. Nothing was spinning. And with no spinning, there was no airflow so the fog here was thick. But with another click, the end of her stick would flick, turning into something that'll do the trick. The gnome would wave and spin it. With that flourish, the air would move and the mist would begin clear.

First visible were the very tips of the blades in the room that were lightly coated with blood. A couple pieces of clothing fibres sprinkle the floor. Following the trail, the clearing fog would finally reveal a tall dark figure standing beside the lever. Mr. Dark.

"Look who I found!" Facktoré would chime with a proud smile. "It's your dark knight! Now go reunite!" She'd gesture for Auric and Xeno to proceed forward so she can go back to guide the others.

Back outside, the engineer would flag Kaemgen to send Castor first. He'd be met with a face of confusion and reluctance from the pup to be separated from his brother. Meanwhile Pollux would be lazily laying his head with his tongue sticking out. He'd occasionally snap at droplets of water splashing their way. Though, after some assurance from Kaemgen, Castor would listen. He'd cross with caution and after arriving on the other side safely, he'd plop his butt down on the ground and wait patiently. He'd be an unmoving statue until the others joined him.

Now it was Kaemgen's turn.

Chugging Along With a Chonk
(You're equal to more than a few gnomes in a trench coat)

Wind blows. Cold toes. Boards creak. Water makes it sleek. Nearing the centre of the bridge, one of the aging boards give way under the weight of the pair.

Roll Call: Kaemgen!
Athletics Check: DC10

On Fail

((At least Athletics is my strongest roll?))

Athletics vs Bridge check: 13

     "Mr.Dark!  Is that truly you over there?  You OK??  Why'd you run off?" Kaemgen would call across upon hearing their absentee party member had been located...

     When it was the wolves and his turn to cross, Kaemgen first talks encouragingly to Castor, assuring them that he and Pollux would be right behind.  "It ain't nothing but a creaky bridge.  You run across smaller logs all the time.  Just look forward instead of down and you'll be just fine...  If them wobbly Dragonborn can do it then it is nothing for you!"

     The words were easy but the confidence was fake.  Kaemgen let out a huge breath he hadn't even been aware he was holding when Castor made it across, and then gulped again knowing he was next...  "Just keep still and we'll be fine," Kaemgen whispered to Pollux reassuringly.  Hopefully.  Then doing his best to take his own advise he held securely onto the wolf, knocked his own chin up to look ahead at the others at the end of the bridge instead of looking down at the fall... And started walking forward.

Castor would lift off his hind quarters when Kaemgen’s foot would fall through the bridge, but the man was able to catch himself. Clinging on to Pollux, Kae would carry on as if nothing happened. This was to ensure that he didn’t spook the pup in hand. Having felt a bit of a bump, the wolf would conveniently start trying to clean the inside of his ear. Soon enough Kaemgen was able to safely make to the other side. Castor would bounce at his feet.

Facktoré Would flag Scott to come next. He’d be able to step over the new gap in the bridge as long as he paid attention and took his time.

     "See now, that wasn't bad at all, was it?" Kaemgen asks the wolves when he sits and recovered hers for a moment on the safe side of the bridge.  

As the group shuffles into the cave and Kaemgan yells a greeting he leans casually against the wall as if he hadn't just avoided having both his arms chopped off. A bit of blood trickles down his cheek and the hair on that side of his head seems a touch shorter than it was. 

"I didn't run off. A was magicked off. Some magic made me appear out on the bridge. Didn't know where I was so lady luck led me here. I turned this nasty contraption off so you can all cross safely.  You're welcome!"  

Auric:

”Yea verily, it doth seem that arcane powers go awry in this locale,” responds the very blue Dragonborn, adding, “Come, let us proceed to an audience with the Kings.”

Mr.Dark stares at the blue dragonborn in confusion, then glances away after he realizes he's staring, and then furrows his brow and scratches his head, and glances surreptitiously back at the dragonborn. Then he shrugs and fall into line as the group proceeds. 

Kaemgen received a slobbery response of gratitude as the rest of the group completed their reunion.

Facktoré couldn't help but snort as she'd try to contain her chuckles. Mr. Dark's explanation next to their new blue dragonborn just tickled her. Gnomengarde's charm well at work. She'd give Kaemgen a couple taps with her foot. "Pitter patter." And the young engineer would skip off. Humming along, she'd easily maneuver around the blades, shimmying passed their bloodied Dark knight to take the lead. "Please keep all arms and legs tucked in at all times. And don't go running off now kids." She'd smile sweetly before sauntering on. "As you can see, that is what happens when you separate from the group."

Waiting for everyone to collect on this side of the blades, Facktoré would pause in the hallway to the next area. She'd glance over to their blue illuminated butterfly dragon. "Now if you want to get to the Kings' as fast as possible, I recommend you all avoid bringing attention to yourselves. Be very very quiet..." And with that, she'd tip toe slowly at first, then with a deep breath she'd hold, the engineer would scurry on through the next room as fast and as quietly as she possibly could.

The room Facktoré scurried through was a workshop.  It's cluttered with half-completed gnomish inventions that serve no purpose, as well as worktables strewn with tinker’s tools. A 10-foot-high ledge overlooks the room, set with a wooden pedestal on which sits a leather-bound book. As any of the group members follow Facktoré and make their approach the room, they'd hear two rock gnome recluses arguing in their native tongue. 

Xenophon attempts to be as quiet as possible, which is a challenge, since he's a big dragonborn in armor.

     Kaemgen would do his best to silently follow their guide, after giving the universal hush sign to the wolves and still carrying the one.  Gnomish was not a tongue he understood so it was easy enough to disregard whatever that dispute may be about...

Auric:

The newly blue dragonborn glides quietly through the room on his gossamer wings...

Stealth:  21

Mr.Dark walks through the room in his usual quiet manner, though walks upright and doesn't skulk. He glances around curiously but says nothing. Stealth: 11 

Scott follows the group per usual at the back of the group. He doesn’t particularly like the fact that there’s a pair of gnome’s arguing… but, at least the one that shot him he can keep an eye on at least. He does his best to move quietly through the workshop.

stealth: 18

For a big armoured dragonborn, Xeno surprisingly moved through the space with smooth efficiency. He turned out to be quieter than Mr. Dark! But it was Auric who was impressively stealth considering all his adjustments.

Kaemgen went to move with too much haste, Pollux started to slip so he started to squirm. The wolf was losing track of all the obstacles and was beginning to panic. Then his brother Castor would lick his toes. Pollux would blip in initial shock and confusion, then he'd just flop, hanging over Kae's arms all dopey wondering where Castor was going when he'd walk off.

Scott having to follow all the commotion did his best, but his boot found a pebble and kicked it.

The arguing gnomes pause their argument abruptly. After what felt like an agonizingly long and suspiciously quiet break in time, everyone would hear what sounded like snoring echoeing from a doorway to the north east of the inventors room. The pair of gnomes turn to look.

It was Facktoré. She had adjusted a dial on her headpiece and it was projecting sounds from her mic to a different area. In this case, she was making snoring noises. She'd then scurry and scoot Scott along the way.

The group manages to arrive safely unnoticed and huddled in some corridors. Facktoré would encourage Kaemgen and his entourage to lead his friends to the double doors of the throne room.

Map Update

     "Umm...  normally, you know... I don't mind leading the way.  Rather go in first.  Usually..."  Kaemgen says, a bit sheepishly and with a nod of his head tries to indicate the wounded Pollux wolf he is carrying.  "Sides, I think we got them with us who are better with the words and such, for talking to kings..."

Auric:

Floating on gossamer wings and decidedly cobalt-hued, Auric suggests, “I feel rather unprepared to attend royalty as well in my current state…Mayhaps a short respite and clean bandages would be a reasonable precursor to a regal audience?”