Act 2, Part 1b: The Radish Patch Kids

[BlackHat]

Zakon Malheur

HP: 20/20 | AC: 14 | Perception: +7
Fort: +4 | Ref: +4 | Will: +9
Hero Points: O | Focus Points: O

Zakon nods with Verne, "War rarely goes well for either side of the conflict. The Sootscale tribe is fortunate to have a wise shaman." He contemplates the ask a moment longer, "Driving them off may only serve to escalate the situation. Mediation is probably out of the question, although I believe diplomacy deserves a chance before we resort to violence. If what they value is not the relic, itself, but the humor they find in your tribe's reaction to its theft... might there be room for peace in a compromise?"

[Kistler]

Sija Bhatyani - Half-Elf Ranger 2 HP: 32/32 | AC: 19 | Speed: 25ft | Hero: 1/3 | Focus: 1/1 Perception: +8 | Fort: +8 | Ref: +7 | Will: +6  Conditions-None| ResourcesInfused Items: -2x Lesser Antidote -2x Minor Elixir of Life Consumables: -1 PC affixed to dandpatta Talismans: - Items: - | AbilitiesFocus Spells: -Gravity Weapon Abilities -Darkvision -Flurry -Monster Hunter Actions: -Hunt Prey -Twin Takedown -Battle Medicine | Skills*Acrobatics: +5 *Arcana: +5 *Athletics: +8 Crafting: +1 Deception: +0 Diplomacy: +0 *Herbalism Lore: +5 Intimidate: +0 *Medicine: +6 **Nature: +8 *Occultism: +5 Performance: +0 *Religion: +6 Society: +1 *Stealth: +5 *Survival: +6 Thievery: +1 *Trained | **Expert | ***Master

---

Sija pours the tea and hands it out in small cups. "I have an idea. I propose we murder the entire tribe of miflits." she says, quite deadpan. She waits for the kobold's response for a second, then asks, "No? Too harsh?"

 

She tries to recall what she's heard about miflits before, or if she's ever seen one.

---

OOC/Actions Other:  Action 1: Roll recall knowledge on miflits Action 2:  Action 3:  Reaction: None, yet Free:  Exploration Activity: Scout

Feats -Elf Atavism (Darkvision) -Monster Hunter -Battle Medicine -Natural Medicine -Herbalist Dedication --Advanced Alchemy --Alchemical Crafting -Twin Takedown -Gravity Weapon

Appearance Sija looks like a typical Vudran woman, often dressing in the more traditional fabric wrap of her homeland and often a headscarf or shawl. She often wears some form of ornamentation or jewelry on hands, ears, neck, and brow. She is older than most, though as a half-elf she wears her six decades with dignity and grace, with few signs of the decrepitude often seen in similarly aged humans. She is tall, and stands with a straight back and good posture. Her arm is strong and well-corded with sinew and muscle, perhaps appearing a touch wiry, and her skin a bit weathered from years outside. Her hair was once a glossy black, though now it is streaked with gray; more with each passing day.   She can often be found with a cudgel, a wicked-looking curved dagger, and a whip hanging from her belt. She wears these, and warm outer clothes or a cloak to protect her from the elements, when she travels. When expecting trouble she throws a bandolier on that's filled with flasks of healing ointments and poultices.

Gear Worn -Clothing (Winter) -Breastplate -Backpack -Belt Pouch -Healer's tools -Bandolier   Weapons -Club -Corset Knife -2x Dandpatta (PC) -Flyssa -5x Darts -Whip   Containers Backpack -Bedroll -Climbing Kit -Rations (2 weeks) -5x Sacks -5x Torches -Waterskin   Bandoliers -4x Flasks Oil   Belt/Pouch -10x Chalk -Crowbar -Flint and Steel -Soap -2x Candles -2gp 4sp 6cp

[Kavonde]

Sukto looks at Verne for a moment, rubbing his chin, before answering. "Southeast. Three days' walk from here. You will see it from a great distance; the tree stands alone on a hill, and is as tall as a mountain. The miflits dwell in the caves beneath it, among its roots. We once considered living there, many years ago, but we found a better place."

He frowns at Zakon. "Your words are wise, but also, I do not think you understand these gremlins. They are wicked fey. Like all fey, they do not think like we mortals. They are ideas given flesh, yes? And the only ideas in them are pointless, cruel pranks. What compromise could we make with them? Let them torment us forever?"

When Sija distributes the tea, Sukto takes a cup and sips at it daintily. His eyes widen in surprise and delight. "Much better than kobold tea! What do you use? Something that grows around here?"

Seeing the shaman's delight, the other kobolds crowd around, eyeing Sija's teapot nervously. They're clearly too wary of these armed travelers to request some tea for themselves, but they'd clearly like to.

At Sija's suggestion, Sukto nods. "It is the best way. We are not talking about creatures that can be reasoned with. They are like... what is the human word? The insects that eat wood? They are like those. There can be no coexistence with wicked fey. They must be killed or driven away, and killing is simpler. If you think you are capable of this, I say you should do it, and we would be thankful."

While Sija can't confirm or deny whether Sukto knows what he's talking about vis a vis the unchangeable metaphysical nature of fey, she does recall what she knows about miflits. They are fey, and known to be cruel and cowardly in equal measure. They are very easy to frighten and manipulate, and they have an affinity for vermin, often partnering with giant spiders, centipedes, and other overlarge creepy crawlies. And, like all fey, they are vulnerable to weapons of cold iron. However, one good thing can be said for them: they famously adore and respect cats.

Edited June 1, 2023 by Kavonde (see edit history)

[AnemoneEnemy]

  

Thomas of Nowhere | AC: 18 | HP: 30/30 | Per: +5 | Fort: +7 | Ref: +8 | Will: +7 | FP: 2

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Æthelflæd | AC: 19 |  Per: +4 | Fort: +7 | Ref: +8 | Will: +6

---

Thomas wrinkles his nose. "Mites. Manky things. Ye're well spaken, Master Sukto. Whit's leadin' them? They're nae likely tae lead themselves, like."

Thomas finds himself a likely radish, and with a small knife picks a small sliver out of one, placing it on his tongue experimentally. His eyebrows rise appreciatively, but he shrugs, giving Æthelflæd a look as though to say well, it's good, but it's not going to drive me mad with desire.

"Might be we'll need tae plant some elsewhere, tae keep Shardik in radishes. Whit'd they like--water, loam?"
 

OOC/mechanics

 

 

 

[Kistler]

Sija Bhatyani - Half-Elf Ranger 2 HP: 32/32 | AC: 19 | Speed: 25ft | Hero: 1/3 | Focus: 1/1 Perception: +8 | Fort: +8 | Ref: +7 | Will: +6  Conditions-None| ResourcesInfused Items: -2x Lesser Antidote -2x Minor Elixir of Life Consumables: -1 PC affixed to dandpatta Talismans: - Items: - | AbilitiesFocus Spells: -Gravity Weapon Abilities -Darkvision -Flurry -Monster Hunter Actions: -Hunt Prey -Twin Takedown -Battle Medicine | Skills*Acrobatics: +5 *Arcana: +5 *Athletics: +8 Crafting: +1 Deception: +0 Diplomacy: +0 *Herbalism Lore: +5 Intimidate: +0 *Medicine: +6 **Nature: +8 *Occultism: +5 Performance: +0 *Religion: +6 Society: +1 *Stealth: +5 *Survival: +6 Thievery: +1 *Trained | **Expert | ***Master

---

Sija's jaw drops open slightly at the kobold's very literal reaction. Sure, sarcasm doesn't always translate from species to species, but this wasn't a subtle concept. This was likely mass murder. She coughs to regain her composure. "Maybe we can start with a conversation and see what they say. Or conjure up a talking cat, I recall miflits love cats. I knew this sorceress once, flaming red hair and a temper to match, had a talking cat perched on her shoulder all the time..."

---

OOC/Actions Other:  Action 1:  Action 2:  Action 3:  Reaction: None, yet Free:  Exploration Activity: Scout

Feats -Elf Atavism (Darkvision) -Monster Hunter -Battle Medicine -Natural Medicine -Herbalist Dedication --Advanced Alchemy --Alchemical Crafting -Twin Takedown -Gravity Weapon

Appearance Sija looks like a typical Vudran woman, often dressing in the more traditional fabric wrap of her homeland and often a headscarf or shawl. She often wears some form of ornamentation or jewelry on hands, ears, neck, and brow. She is older than most, though as a half-elf she wears her six decades with dignity and grace, with few signs of the decrepitude often seen in similarly aged humans. She is tall, and stands with a straight back and good posture. Her arm is strong and well-corded with sinew and muscle, perhaps appearing a touch wiry, and her skin a bit weathered from years outside. Her hair was once a glossy black, though now it is streaked with gray; more with each passing day.   She can often be found with a cudgel, a wicked-looking curved dagger, and a whip hanging from her belt. She wears these, and warm outer clothes or a cloak to protect her from the elements, when she travels. When expecting trouble she throws a bandolier on that's filled with flasks of healing ointments and poultices.

Gear Worn -Clothing (Winter) -Breastplate -Backpack -Belt Pouch -Healer's tools -Bandolier   Weapons -Club -Corset Knife -2x Dandpatta (PC) -Flyssa -5x Darts -Whip   Containers Backpack -Bedroll -Climbing Kit -Rations (2 weeks) -5x Sacks -5x Torches -Waterskin   Bandoliers -4x Flasks Oil   Belt/Pouch -10x Chalk -Crowbar -Flint and Steel -Soap -2x Candles -2gp 4sp 6cp

[BlackHat]

Zakon Malheur

HP: 20/20 | AC: 14 | Perception: +7
Fort: +4 | Ref: +4 | Will: +9
Hero Points: O | Focus Points: O

Sija's suggestion makes Zakon contemplate and then nod, "Given an evening to prepare, I can arrange for the summoning of a cat with the gift of speech."

[Kavonde]

Sukto turns towards Thomas to address his questions. "Their chieftan is named Grabbles. They say he rides into battle on a giant tick and has a fascination with spoons. As far as we know, they have no spellcasters. There are just many of them, and they have many pets. Giant centipedes especially. As for the radishes... " He looks at them sadly. "Kobolds are not farmers. But we have never seen humans grow them. They may be fey, and only grow in specific places. But I cannot say for sure."

He turns back to Sija and makes a face when she suggests diplomacy. "You may as well do nothing. You are big and have weapons. They will cower and pretend to listen to you, and once you go, they will return to their ways. Why is it that you long-legs have so much compassion for these wicked creatures, and yet drive kobolds away whenever you find us?"

One of the other kobolds suggests something in Draconic. Sukto rolls his eyes and snaps back a reply; there's a brief back-and-forth, and then Sukto returns his attention to you.

"If you wish to try reasoning with them," he says, "we will not stop you. But when you leave and they prey on us once more, I hope you will return and do what must be done."
 

Edited June 6, 2023 by Kavonde (see edit history)

[Kistler]

Sija Bhatyani - Half-Elf Ranger 2 HP: 32/32 | AC: 19 | Speed: 25ft | Hero: 1/3 | Focus: 1/1 Perception: +8 | Fort: +8 | Ref: +7 | Will: +6  Conditions-None| ResourcesInfused Items: -2x Lesser Antidote -2x Minor Elixir of Life Consumables: -1 PC affixed to dandpatta Talismans: - Items: - | AbilitiesFocus Spells: -Gravity Weapon Abilities -Darkvision -Flurry -Monster Hunter Actions: -Hunt Prey -Twin Takedown -Battle Medicine | Skills*Acrobatics: +5 *Arcana: +5 *Athletics: +8 Crafting: +1 Deception: +0 Diplomacy: +0 *Herbalism Lore: +5 Intimidate: +0 *Medicine: +6 **Nature: +8 *Occultism: +5 Performance: +0 *Religion: +6 Society: +1 *Stealth: +5 *Survival: +6 Thievery: +1 *Trained | **Expert | ***Master

---

Sija replies, measured and reasonable. "Well, I don't know this miflits well enough to want them dead, yet. Maybe they'll show us their evil nature when we speak with them. The least we can do is visit them, and try to convince them to leave you alone." The thought of giant ticks and centipedes does not bring her joy, and will probably have her itching in her blankets half the night.

---

OOC/Actions Other:  Action 1:  Action 2:  Action 3:  Reaction: None, yet Free:  Exploration Activity: Scout

Feats -Elf Atavism (Darkvision) -Monster Hunter -Battle Medicine -Natural Medicine -Herbalist Dedication --Advanced Alchemy --Alchemical Crafting -Twin Takedown -Gravity Weapon

Appearance Sija looks like a typical Vudran woman, often dressing in the more traditional fabric wrap of her homeland and often a headscarf or shawl. She often wears some form of ornamentation or jewelry on hands, ears, neck, and brow. She is older than most, though as a half-elf she wears her six decades with dignity and grace, with few signs of the decrepitude often seen in similarly aged humans. She is tall, and stands with a straight back and good posture. Her arm is strong and well-corded with sinew and muscle, perhaps appearing a touch wiry, and her skin a bit weathered from years outside. Her hair was once a glossy black, though now it is streaked with gray; more with each passing day.   She can often be found with a cudgel, a wicked-looking curved dagger, and a whip hanging from her belt. She wears these, and warm outer clothes or a cloak to protect her from the elements, when she travels. When expecting trouble she throws a bandolier on that's filled with flasks of healing ointments and poultices.

Gear Worn -Clothing (Winter) -Breastplate -Backpack -Belt Pouch -Healer's tools -Bandolier   Weapons -Club -Corset Knife -2x Dandpatta (PC) -Flyssa -5x Darts -Whip   Containers Backpack -Bedroll -Climbing Kit -Rations (2 weeks) -5x Sacks -5x Torches -Waterskin   Bandoliers -4x Flasks Oil   Belt/Pouch -10x Chalk -Crowbar -Flint and Steel -Soap -2x Candles -2gp 4sp 6cp

[PlotDevice]

   Verne Greencloak| HP: 24/24 | AC: 19 | Fort: +5  Ref: +6  Will: +10  Perception: +8 | Hero Points: 2/3 | Spell SlotsDruid 1: 2/2

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Shardik | HP: 26/26 | AC: 19 | Fort: +6  Ref: +6  Will: +5  Perception: +5

 

Verne nods, saying, "We should talk to the mitflits. Maybe they have a reason for being how they are that we can solve. Or someone nefarious is using them. As for Shardik, he likes the radishes but they're not good for him. I'd rather not bring any along, but if you do be aware that he'll probably end up eating them."

Then he smiles innocently at the shaman, and says, "Who is Tartuk?"

[Kavonde]

Sukto gives Sija a doubtful shrug, spreading his hands as if the world is demonstrating exactly what he was talking about. "Do as you wish. We will not count the spots on a toadstool."

At Verne's question, he scowls and spits. The kobold he was speaking to looks a little affronted at that. "A charlatan," Sukto says crossly, ignoring his companion. "He came to us from far to the west, he said. Beyond the Narlmarches. A mighty kobold shaman with purple scales." His tongue flicks out, rubbing against his teeth as if trying to scrape off an unpleasant taste. "Who has ever heard of a kobold with purple scales? He claimed to be a mighty sorcerer, and I admit he was not completely without skill. He retrieved our artifact for us, and our chieftain commanded we treat him with all honors. He lived like a chieftain himself for a month or so, then suddenly vanished one night, perhaps two weeks ago. He stayed just long enough to convince a few of the hatchlings," he bobs his head towards the kobold next to him, "that he was the snail's shell, though anyone with half an ounce of sense could see he was an egotistical fool."

[Kistler]

Sija Bhatyani - Half-Elf Ranger 2 HP: 32/32 | AC: 19 | Speed: 25ft | Hero: 1/3 | Focus: 1/1 Perception: +8 | Fort: +8 | Ref: +7 | Will: +6  Conditions-None| ResourcesInfused Items: -2x Lesser Antidote -2x Minor Elixir of Life Consumables: -1 PC affixed to dandpatta Talismans: - Items: - | AbilitiesFocus Spells: -Gravity Weapon Abilities -Darkvision -Flurry -Monster Hunter Actions: -Hunt Prey -Twin Takedown -Battle Medicine | Skills*Acrobatics: +5 *Arcana: +5 *Athletics: +8 Crafting: +1 Deception: +0 Diplomacy: +0 *Herbalism Lore: +5 Intimidate: +0 *Medicine: +6 **Nature: +8 *Occultism: +5 Performance: +0 *Religion: +6 Society: +1 *Stealth: +5 *Survival: +6 Thievery: +1 *Trained | **Expert | ***Master

---

"That sounds just like someone else these people were telling me about. Isn't it a wonder how humans and kobolds can be so similar? We're all just people in the end." Sija says, nodding sagely. She thanks Sukto for sitting and talking with her and starts to gather up the tea things, assuming the conversation is wrapping up.

---

OOC/Actions Other:  Action 1:  Action 2:  Action 3:  Reaction: None, yet Free:  Exploration Activity: Scout

Feats -Elf Atavism (Darkvision) -Monster Hunter -Battle Medicine -Natural Medicine -Herbalist Dedication --Advanced Alchemy --Alchemical Crafting -Twin Takedown -Gravity Weapon

Appearance Sija looks like a typical Vudran woman, often dressing in the more traditional fabric wrap of her homeland and often a headscarf or shawl. She often wears some form of ornamentation or jewelry on hands, ears, neck, and brow. She is older than most, though as a half-elf she wears her six decades with dignity and grace, with few signs of the decrepitude often seen in similarly aged humans. She is tall, and stands with a straight back and good posture. Her arm is strong and well-corded with sinew and muscle, perhaps appearing a touch wiry, and her skin a bit weathered from years outside. Her hair was once a glossy black, though now it is streaked with gray; more with each passing day.   She can often be found with a cudgel, a wicked-looking curved dagger, and a whip hanging from her belt. She wears these, and warm outer clothes or a cloak to protect her from the elements, when she travels. When expecting trouble she throws a bandolier on that's filled with flasks of healing ointments and poultices.

Gear Worn -Clothing (Winter) -Breastplate -Backpack -Belt Pouch -Healer's tools -Bandolier   Weapons -Club -Corset Knife -2x Dandpatta (PC) -Flyssa -5x Darts -Whip   Containers Backpack -Bedroll -Climbing Kit -Rations (2 weeks) -5x Sacks -5x Torches -Waterskin   Bandoliers -4x Flasks Oil   Belt/Pouch -10x Chalk -Crowbar -Flint and Steel -Soap -2x Candles -2gp 4sp 6cp