Session 1: Make contact with Bhjurba's Den

Mar 13, 2016 2:55 am
Goal: Establish a good relationship with the slavers, secure a contact for food supply.
Hazards: 2 Days of Desert Travel - Monsters, bandits, and environmental conditions.
Skills needed: Combat and social.

Current player roster:
1. Magnus Del'thor (Naatkinson)
2. Yrsa "The Kraken" Eclipse (CancerMan)
3. Kalimonsore Lauck (SirRockNRolla)
4. Leilara Thistlefeather (DJForeclosure)

Additional Objectives:
Water supplies running low - Restock on water before heading back to the Keep. (Loss of 200 XP if the goal is not met) Completed!
Mar 15, 2016 9:35 am
At exactly 0400, Tsira meets the party by the main gate of the keep.

"Good to see you all ready to go, I've got a few items for you before you leave."

Kalimonsore is given a sealed envelope containing the contract that Tsira created. The seal is in red wax and bears the signet of the Omon clan.

Yrsa is given a piece of rune parchment. If the command phrase 'Fly back to the horde' is spoken, the paper will fold into an animal that the user envisions and transport itself to Tsira

Magnus is given a case of exquisite Genera tobacco, said to cause pleasing hallucinations when smoked or ingested. It's a gift for the masters in Bhjurba, but they probably wouldn't notice if you tried some.

Leilara is given a small map of the scouted area around the keep. It contains handwritten notes from Tsira, and should aid anyone making their way around the Kamatayan.

"...Right, so that's everything. The mission is in your hands now, whatever happens is up to you. I've said farewell too many times in my life, so I will instead leave you with the motto from my old unit in Ranger Corps. Do good, fight better, be the best looking!... the lot of us were a bunch of narcissists back then."

With that, the party exits and the gate closes. The morning air is still cool, so there's time to discuss what your game plan will be.
OOC:
If you got any questions ask em OOC, you'll ruin the drama if you start asking Tsira questions through the main gate!

Also... In the grand scheme of things attributes don't matter much, but it is worth noting that the fighter (Magnus) has the highest intelligence. :P
Mar 15, 2016 1:46 pm
Leilara concentrates on the map, studying Tsira's scrawled notes.
OOC:
Anything stand out in comparison to the map in the Map Thread?
Mar 15, 2016 2:22 pm
Kalimonsore dressed in black commoner clothes, the hood up and his white snout coming from it, his body temperature was colder and more suited to the desert, the envelope he was given into a satchel which laid across his chest by his side before looking at the group that had been choosen for this crucial task, a halfling, a human and of course the female pirate he met last night, he adjusted his clothes before speaking up after a small cough.

"My name is Kalimonsore, I wish to introduce myself to the group that I will be travelling with on this crucial and dangerous task that Madame Tsira has granted us, I understand that some people do not like being told or requested to do something but I wish to lead this expedition to make contact and secure a deal with these slavers with you're help of course, I only ask to be the mouthpiece as I have experience with dealing with these...people, if anyone...."

He focuses from the group and looks at the pirate and tilts his head slightly

"Has an issue or can do a better job than I feel like I can then please speak up and I will gladly move aside for them, we are a group and we have to work together even if we don't like each other or not"

He was talking to the group but looking towards the pirate the whole time, he didn't like her snarky attitude last night about him speaking to much, he was somewhat snarky himself lowering the standards of himself, he didn't dislike this female pirate, he barely knew her
Mar 15, 2016 2:30 pm
At hearing one of the party speak, Leilara looks up from the map. She's wearing simple, worn traveling clothes, and her hair is currently a lilac purple.

"Oh, of course! It's nice to meet you! I'm Leilara Thistlefeather!" She thrusts an exuberant palm at the Dragonborn. "As far as the talking part goes, you're more than welcome to take care of that. I'm not much for these formal exchanges." She leans back on her heels, then rolls back to her toes. "If anything, I'd rather talk to the... well, slaves... but who knows if I'll get a chance at that..." She stares back at the map, a semi-confused expression on her face. Then, as an afterthought, she waves at the other two. "Oh, and it's nice to meet you too!"
Last edited March 15, 2016 2:31 pm
Mar 15, 2016 2:43 pm
Magnus listens politely to Kalimonsore and nods at the end before speaking, "That's alright with me. I'll defer to your greater experience in dealing with the slavers," he then sticks out his hand for the rest of the party to shake, "I'm Sergeant Magnus Del'thor, here by request of Tarhun to assist Tsira with her tasks here."
OOC:
Sorry if I'm stepping out of bounds here with my story. I'm thinking that Magnus knew Tarhun and Tsira personally before things went downhill and Tarhun asked Magnus to come here to help out as a personal favor. If that's not ok, let me know and I'll change it up.
Mar 15, 2016 4:06 pm
"I like how you say these people," Yrsa quips to Kalimonsore. She tussles her dreadlocks as she scratches the scalp under her bandanna, beads lightly clacking with the rough movement. She extends her hand and warrior-clasps Magnus upon his forearm. With a nod and a wave to Leilara, Yrsa returns her attention to the group.

"I am Yrsa," she says by introduction. "You all have likely seen me around the keep for the past several weeks, and I apologize if we have not been formally introduced." The dusky-skinned self-proclaimed pirate is dressed in a leather vest, revealing a many-tentacled beast wrapped around her shoulders and arms. A pair of cut-off trousers end at footwraps slipped into light closed boots for sand travel, and a yellow sash matching the color of her bandanna lies loose on her hips. Her good right eye is a deep amethyst color, paired with a black eyepatch covering her left.

Yrsa has a scimitar on one side of her waist, paired on the other side with a coiled whip of leather. One handaxe is tucked into the small of her back while another is strapped to her bag. A quiver of arrows and a longbow complement her armaments.

"Since we're going to be buddy-buddies in the desert, I figure it's as good a time as any to mention that I do have a few arcane tricks up my sleeves"

Yrsa seems to look at each person with her eyepatch, and each individual can feel her words within the mind: Survival in the desert requires all of us to be on the same page, very much like the crew of a ship. We work together, trust each other, or die; no room for individual delusions of grandeur.

As she finishes her "talk," Yrsa pulls out a loose, billowy robe and throws it upon herself. Something to protect her from the desert sun. "As for the topic of negotiating with the camp leaders, go ahead and utilize your skills," she says aloud to Kalimonsore. "You have my utmost confidence."

Perhaps it was the shimmering heat, but the tentacles on Yrsa's arms seem to writhe, just ever so slightly.
Last edited March 15, 2016 4:08 pm
Mar 15, 2016 4:19 pm
"Nice to meet you both then! And... yeah, I guess I'll be performing the magic tricks too. Just so you know." She shrugs, drawing a dagger. "I'm not really great with this so... yeah. Magic." She gulps the last word, shivering a bit and sheathing the dagger. If Leilara realized that the speech Yrsa just made was only in her head, she seems unconcerned. That being said, she probably just didn't notice.

"Now... where are we going...?" she wonders as she looks back at the map.
Last edited March 15, 2016 4:21 pm
Mar 15, 2016 7:59 pm
Kalimonsore nodded to the group as they approved his plan on him being the voice of the group, there was something about being an important part of the group instead of just a grunt or an expendable asset, he heard that the halfling and pirate had abilities and spoke up

"I guess that makes three of us, I have abilities, I can shift into animals, whatever animal you can think off I can shift into, stuff like birds and fish I haven't mastered but stuff likes bears and wolves and pets are easy"

Kalimonsore walked to the halfling and looked at the map over her before prodding at it

"We need to follow the ocean out, Madame Tsira had a map in her office, she marked where bhjurbas den was, it's south east from are's"
Mar 15, 2016 9:21 pm
DJForeclosure says:
Leilara concentrates on the map, studying Tsira's scrawled notes.
OOC:
Anything stand out in comparison to the map in the Map Thread?
There are some shortcuts, hazards, and good areas to camp where you are less likely to be ambushed. It also shows the way to Bhjurba's Den, naturally. (Gives +2 when scouting/navigating within the desert)
OOC:
@Naatkinson - Your backstory is good, don't worry!

@All - When you decide to head out just give me the word, and we'll roll into whatever happens
Mar 15, 2016 9:33 pm
"Does anyone have anything else that they need before we leave? No chance after this to turn back."
Mar 15, 2016 11:10 pm
Not being able to see the map, Yrsa asks, "Are the marked camp locations and shortcuts along the coast, or through the desert?"
Mar 15, 2016 11:33 pm
Leilara moves toward Yrsa, getting close enough to show her the map. "Looks like we have plenty of options, especially if we're being careful, but it looks like the shortest path is mostly desert."
OOC:
That's an assumption. Are there time-efficient non-desert routes?
Mar 16, 2016 2:41 am
DJForeclosure says:
Leilara moves toward Yrsa, getting close enough to show her the map. "Looks like we have plenty of options, especially if we're being careful, but it looks like the shortest path is mostly desert."
OOC:
That's an assumption. Are there time-efficient non-desert routes?
Pretty much all desert. You can take a route along the sea for half a day, but you would have to turn into the desert eventually.
Mar 16, 2016 3:20 am
"I suggest we use this map and plot as direct a course as we can," says Yrsa, stooping down over Leilara's shoulder. "Take the shortcuts, avoid the hazards, and find camp as indicated. It's just two days' worth of travel across the desert."
Mar 16, 2016 5:16 am
"Sounds good to me!" Leilara traces the path that looks best to her with her finger, taking care to repeat under her breath any notes written by Tsira about upcoming landmarks.
Mar 16, 2016 6:24 am
He had expected to be leading this group but Kalimonsore was clearly mistaken, the halfling was given the map for a reason, he hid a smile, he had always been a lone wolf in his tasks, he didn't have anyone to have his back but now we does, he wasn't a world class fighter but the two humans had that aura that they could handle themselves, he couldn't read the halfling but Madame Tsira clearly had her reasons for sending the four of them

"I guess we are all in agreement with the route we will be taking then."

He nods to the group before placing his hand out

"After you."

The two day journey across the harsh desert is no easy feat, luckily the group was sent just before sunrise but come a few hours the sun will be beaming down on them, Kalimonsore was covered in black clothing, every inch but his snout was covered, his white skin easily burnt by the blistering heat that the desert gives, his veins run cold with ice but this wasn't a beach, this was the unforgiving desert sun
Mar 16, 2016 7:04 am
Yrsa considers something as she wraps a loose shawl around her head. "I just realized that you have a contract, Kalimonsore," she says, gesturing in the direction of the sealed envelope on the dragonborn's person. "Presumably the terms are written within, and we would only be obligated in delivering the envelope."

As an afterthought, "Of course, if the Bhjurba masters seek to alter the terms, no doubt that you are prepared to negotiate, yes?" Yrsa smiles sweetly, her amethyst eye intense as she covers her mouth and nose with her shawl.
Mar 16, 2016 7:35 am
Kalimonsore shakes his head at her

"I'm sorry if you think we are simple couriers but we are not, Madame Tsira wouldn't have sent us if this was the case, deals alter, issues arise, this is not a simple give the items and then leave, these people are slavers, first and foremost, they may be simple folk or they may be bastards, sending us.."

He waves his arms around in a circle to signal the whole group

"We have are own qualities and skills, I would be more than happy for this deal to go well, we hand over the envelope and the contents of what Magnus has and we leave the way we came, Madame Tsira would give them a deal that is fair and just but these people are takers, we are suitably capable to handle this situation whatever may or may not happen, I just have one question to everyone....Are you ready to kneel before these slavers for the good of are camp?"

It was a simple question but a question that some may not be comfortable with, the slavers may wish for the group to take a knee before them, it was a test to see how this group would put there own personal pride aside for the better of the camp
Mar 16, 2016 9:53 am
OOC:
I will assume you guys are traveling and talking at the same time, sound good?
Mar 16, 2016 1:23 pm
OOC:
I think that's a fair assumption. :)
Leilara looks up for a moment from the map and turns her head toward the Dragonborn. "Oh that won't be a problem for me. And sometimes you see far more when you get a little closer to the ground anyways!" She looks around at all of her taller companions. "I guess I would know best about that, huh?" she quips, giggling at her own joke.
Last edited March 16, 2016 1:23 pm
Mar 16, 2016 2:05 pm
Magnus smiles at the little halfling's quip and then speaks up, "These slavers are ruthless and brutal, we have to make sure that we don't show any weakness or they will take advantage of us. Just from our brief time together, I don't think I have to worry about any of you. So long as we've got each other's backs we should be alright."
Mar 16, 2016 6:06 pm
We are in a power of weakness, we are giving gifts to slavers in favour of helping us out, I've met people who think there King of there people and I had to kneel to them, I've had the most savage people be humble to me, we cannot predict what these people will be like, open arms or hostile I want to know where everyone stands, if you are not willing to show weakness for the greater good then we cannot show weakness because when we aren't together then we will stand no chance"

Kali knew he needed the group to be on the same page, he followed closely behind the halfling

"We need to remember that it's not only are lives but the lives back at the camp, it's all fair us saying this now tho but the slavers aren't exactly the only thing we should be worried about out here Madame Tsira said, anyone know anything about these lands?"
Mar 16, 2016 6:16 pm
"Respect must be shown and proper deference given," says Yrsa as she walks directly along the planned route. "However, you are presuming that all slavers behave in a specific manner. While it is true that many can be, as you put it, simple, bastardly, ruthless, and brutal, we mustn't forget that slavery is also a business. And they have survived in these environs with resources we don't have access to, which means they must enjoy a brisk trade with whomever comes calling. In other words, we won't know with whom we are dealing until we meet them."

Yrsa turns her head to the dragonborn as though to say something, but after observing Kalimonsore for a brief moment, remains silent and returns her attention to the path, a soft chuckle escaping her lips.
Mar 16, 2016 7:49 pm
Kali nodded to himself hearing what Ysra had to say

"And what happens if there hostile? If there not reasonable? You prepare for the worst and hope for the best, that's all we can do, walking in and walking out is the plan but you're a fool if you think it's going to go down that way and if we think it will all be roses and sunshine then we may as well give them are lives now, I do not want to go in there, threatening them or being aggressive, I want a plan, if someone sees something we know or if someone feels deep in there gut that something feels off I want them to be able to warn us, the plan is we walk in, we hand over the envelope, sort any issues, if there are any and then be on are way home"

Kalimonsore thought to himself for a few seconds

"Unless you are questioning why we are judging them because what they do? Yes I question them but they should be, they are not a farmer, a stable boy or even a Gaurd, I myself am judged when people find out I was a spy, a infiltrator, you are probably judging me as not trustworthy as we speak but I know who and what I am even if you see me in a different light now, it's in all are natures to question the Unknown, I trust Madame Tsira is not walking us into are graves tho"
Mar 16, 2016 8:12 pm
"I'm sure whatever we're walking into we can handle," Leilara exclaims. As you say Kalimonsore, I'm sure Lady Tsira wouldn't send us there to die, so I figure this works one of two ways." She holds up two fingers cheerfully. "Either we reach our destination, make a beneficial contract, and walk away with the money we need to thrive, OR," she grins widely, "We get an opportunity to dethrone some slavers and do the right thing. Win win." Her hand returns to the map. "Either way, no judgment until we can make an informed decision. I mean, informed AND profitable, of course."
Mar 16, 2016 8:22 pm
"Well, let's assume they're going to be hostile, because that's the worst it can really get and go from there. Perhaps we should set up signals so we can alert each other if something appears to be going wrong."
Mar 16, 2016 8:24 pm
Yrsa rolls her eye. "Judging them? Their business is distasteful, to put it mildly," she says. "My concern was that your choice of words, opinions of their trade, and overall general assumptions of their personalities are not the best conditions for favorable negotiation, spokesperson. Unless you are adept at masking your true feelings when addressing these den masters, I suggest you start thinking like a diplomat. Gods know you've shown no such restraint when addressing me."

The pirate sighs. "However, in a wordy and roundabout way, you have finally joined my line of thinking from the start; prepare for the worst, hope for the best. At least we are now on the same page."

She tilts her heads and regards the dragonborn. "For what it's worth, I do not hold your race nor your background as reason to feel about you the way I do.

"My judgment is based purely on how you decided to belittle myself and everyone in that keep with your petty curries of favor with Lady Omon. You said you meant no offense, but offend you did; strutting in like a peacock claiming that you were the only one qualified to go on this task, thinking low of the very people you hope to live and work with."
Mar 16, 2016 9:08 pm
As you make your way down the coastal route, the midday sun reaches it's peak. The 'river' turns out to be more of an inland sea, and the slow moving waters do little to cool you down. The reflected light and heat from the desert sands make you feel like you are being turned into jerky, with the salt water being your seasoning.

Suddenly, a strange sound is hear underground and the conversation immediately comes to a halt. It sound's like...burrowing? Whatever it is, it was easily heard by the entire party. After a moment of tension (maybe after realizing their ambush failed) two large bug-like creatures shoot up from the ground and attack the party!

http://www.elftown.com/stuff/Ankheg.JPG
OOC:
Cue battle music, ect.
If you want to make rolls it identify the monsters or any other inquiries is counts as a bonus free action. Speaking, drawing your weapon, and activating something in the environment (like pulling a level) are also bonus free actions.

Rolls

Bug Initiative (Both of them) - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Mar 16, 2016 9:18 pm
It takes Leilara a moment to get her head out of the map, but she quickly jumps back and reaches into a pocket on her robes.
OOC:
Here we go! Edit: Oh god whyyyyy
Last edited March 16, 2016 9:18 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Mar 16, 2016 9:21 pm
Magnus readies himself for combat, drawing his sword and placing his shield between himself and the creatures.
OOC:
Is there a reason that all of that stuff is a bonus action? I'm super curious because that stuff is usually a free action.
Last edited March 16, 2016 9:31 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+2)

(11) + 2 = 13

Mar 16, 2016 9:34 pm
Naatkinson says:
Magnus readies himself for combat, drawing his sword and placing his shield between himself and the creatures.
OOC:
Is there a reason that all of that stuff is a bonus action? I'm super curious because that stuff is usually a free action.
OOC:
Free action, bonus action, the mean the same to me! I knew the book stated all those things were free, I just wanted to point it out in advance. I'll change it to free action though, for consistency's sake.
Mar 16, 2016 9:38 pm
OOC:
Much appreciated, I have the mind of a lawyer, so that kind of stuff sticks out to me :)
Magnus tries to determine if he knows what these creatures are and what their weaknesses might be.
OOC:
Nope, I don't know anything! lol
Last edited March 16, 2016 9:38 pm

Rolls

Intelligence Check - (1d20+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Mar 16, 2016 9:41 pm
@Magnus - You know that when those things bite, they tend to not let go.
Mar 16, 2016 9:53 pm
Yrsa takes a moment to consider the range, and opts to forgo her ranged weaponry in favor of melee. With a flare of Yrsa's robes, her scimitar and whip both seem to leap into her hands. She tries to interpose herself between the Ankhegs and the spellcasters.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Nature - (1d20-1)

(15) - 1 = 14

Mar 16, 2016 10:09 pm
Kalimonsore was taken back by Yrsa's outburst, he didn't have a chance to react to what had happened that can wait, he saw these beasts infront, he took some deep breathes and slowly reached into his satchel, his eyes not taking from the burrowing creatures before pulling out some food and throwing it towards them and talking

"We aren't here to harm you, we are just passing through and do not wish you any harm"

He spoke in a gentle and calm tone, he couldn't speak to animals but Kali had a sense with them but he had never encountered creatures like this, his arm still close to the sword at his side

Rolls

Animal Handling - (1d20+6)

(18) + 6 = 24

Initiative Roll - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Mar 17, 2016 8:45 am
OOC:
Animal handling is really for domesticated animals, but I'll say that the roll if good enough to affect the bug in some way.
Initiative Order:
19 - Bugs
13 - Magnus
11 - Kalimonsore
8 - Leilara
5 - Yrsa


@Yrsa - You know that the bugs are indeed called Ankhegs, they can grab on to you with their bites, and that they can spray acid up to 30ft.

@Kalimonsore - The bugs screech as you throw the food. One of them begins eating the food, but only because it would eat anything that moved. The second bug remains aggressive.

The bugs are extremely large, and it looks like it would only take one of them to devour an entire ox. While the first Ankheg is eating the food, the second one still attacks. It lunges towards the closest fighter - Magnus!

The bug's mandibles gnash against Magnus's armor, but there is not damage done to him.

Magnus is up next
OOC:
Unless otherwise stated, I will assume you guys are fighting them head on in a typical party formation (tanks up front, spellcasters in the back). If you wish to flank the enemy or do some other shenanigans just state that you do, I'll work out if there are any opportunity attacks.

Rolls

Ankheg #2 attacking Magnus - (1d20+5)

(10) + 5 = 15

Mar 17, 2016 2:18 pm
Magnus steps forward after pushing the huge beast's head aside with his shield and swings hard at the creature's neck with his longsword.

Rolls

Longsword attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (12) + 5 = 17

1d8+5 : (2) + 5 = 7

Mar 17, 2016 8:39 pm
Magnus's sword easily slices through the monster's carapace, and green goo oozes from the wound.

Kalimonsore is up next
Mar 17, 2016 8:58 pm
"See if you can preserve any interesting samples!"
Mar 17, 2016 9:20 pm
Kalimonsore realising that these where not creatures he could communicate with and as one attacked Magnus but missed and was caught with a swift sword slice, Kali could feel himself haunch over and he fell to his knees, the black robes he wore began to transform into a thick white fur and the groans from the White dragonborn became more growls as he shifted into a snarling wolf, the now wolf form Kali pounced towards the now bleeding ankheg, the White wolf showing off its sharp canines at this giant bug infront of it
OOC:
A non-attack round from me but at least I'm a wolf right lol

Also for future reference and not having to look at the MM constantly

Wolf - Medium beast
Armor Class: 13 (natural armor)
Hit Points: 11
Speed 40 ft.

STR
12 (+1) DEX
15 (+2) CON
12 (+1) INT
3 (-4) WIS
12 (+1) CHA
6 (-2)

Skills: Perception +3, Stealth +4
Senses: passive Perception 13

Keen Hearing and Smell. The wolf has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Pack Tactics. The wolf has advantage on attack rolls against a creature if at least one of the wolf's allies is within 5 feet of the creature and the ally isn't incapacitated.

ACTIONS
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Last edited March 17, 2016 9:41 pm
Mar 17, 2016 9:49 pm
Leilara stares at the wolf.

"Coooooooool."
Mar 17, 2016 9:56 pm
OOC:
its Leilara turn just a heads up as no actions where taken by me
Mar 17, 2016 10:01 pm
OOC:
I'll just wait for handle's handoff. :)
Mar 17, 2016 10:08 pm
OOC:
As someone who DMs several games on here, I don't suggest waiting for the DM handoff (unless there's some specific result that's going to have an effect on your actions). It adds a lot of work onto the DMs shoulders and slows things down quite a bit.

Handle may feel differently, of course. This has just been my experience since PbP games are slow as it is.
Mar 17, 2016 11:05 pm
OOC:
Okay then!
Leilara scrunches up her face as she moves a bit further back from the voracious bug creatures. She closes her eyes in concentration as her hair goes from lilac to a brilliant red. "Hey bugs! Leave us alone!" From the tips of her fingers, a small tongue of flame shoots toward the monsters as she casts Fire Bolt.
OOC:
Ugh... why rolls whyyyyy
Last edited March 17, 2016 11:06 pm

Rolls

Fire Bolt (Ranged Spell Attack) - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

Mar 17, 2016 11:22 pm
OOC:
Yes, Naatkinson is correct. You don't gotta wait for my hand off. I'm over in Korea, so by the time I can post you'll probably be asleep!

I'll probably switch to 100% block initiative, just so we don't have to wait on turns to post our attacks
Leilara's spell shoots wildly off course into a sand dune, causing a small explosion that throws sand in the air.

Yrsa is next!
Mar 17, 2016 11:35 pm
"Mind its acid!" Yrsa warns, keeping her distance. She mumbles a few words as she stares at the large ankheg by Magnus, afflicting a Hex upon it before unleashing an Eldritch Blast of arcane energy.
OOC:
Bonus action to cast Hex, choosing Strength as the ankheg's disadvantage on ability checks.

Rolls

Agonizing Eldritch Blast - (1d20+6, 1d10+4)

1d20+6 : (20) + 6 = 26

1d10+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

Hex damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Critical Hit damage? - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Mar 18, 2016 11:30 am
As Yrsa casts her spell, she manages to tap into a power deep within her - maybe because she hasn't been this close to the ocean in a while. An image flashes in her mind: a writhing mass of tentacles crushing her enemies with their powerful, unearthly grip. Instead of an single blast she manages to fire off three, no, four beams of crackling energy!

The magical blasts tear through the aggressive Ankheg, scattering its legs and feelers across the sand. What is left of the monster's thorax collapses in a pile of green goo, and the sand turns dark as it absorbs moisture. Ankheg #2 has perished.

The remaining Ankheg grabs what is left of the meat Kalimonsore offered, and burrows back under the sand. It looks as though it has retreated for now.

Combat is over. Each member of the party gets 150 XP for routing the enemy, as well as good role-play.
Mar 18, 2016 12:22 pm
Kalimonsore in wolf form sniffs around the green bubbling acidic goo, the wolf making sure he doesn't touch it before heading over to where the ankheg had burrowed, the beast unsure where this creature has gone or if it'll come back before heading back to the group, Kali began to quietly groan and wince as the fur transformed from due to cloth and scale as he stay there on hands and knees in the sand, he looks up and speaks, transforming for Kali didn't seem so straight forward for him as other Druids, he spoke almost catching his breathe

"I don't know...what that was..."

He leant up now with on his knees

"Or what you did...but we should...keep moving"

Kali got to his feet, his breathing slowly returning to normal as the cold tinge to his breathe returns, he brushes off the sand from his hands and knees and wherever else it may have gotten into
Mar 18, 2016 1:31 pm
Leilara stares at her hands and shakes them as if they are malfunctioning implements and she's trying to fix them despite a lack of technical expertise.

"Still not working right... " She sighs. "I agree, my shapeshifting friend. Let's move. I don't want that other one to come back."
Mar 18, 2016 1:39 pm
Magnus looks at Yrsa with a new respect, "Well done! We'd best be moving on," he says as he inspects his armor where the beast tried to get him. Satisfied that it seems to be intact he will follow along with the group.
Mar 18, 2016 4:38 pm
Yrsa secures her scimitar and whip, then settles her loose robes once again. She nods to Magnus wordlessly as shallow breaths escape from her makeshift head wrap, her amethyst eye slightly wide.

She busies herself with her pack, and says in a hoarse voice, "Good work, dragonborn. Distracting that second monstrosity may have saved us from a protracted battle."
Mar 18, 2016 8:18 pm
"Lucky you mean, I threw some food, Magnus went toe to toe with it, Leilara shot some spell at it and you did whatever you did, I think we all played a part"

Kalimonsore nodded, he really did get lucky tho, he tried to calm a acid spitting monster with food instead of readying himself to fight it
Mar 18, 2016 8:24 pm
"Sometimes not fighting can be the best method of attack," says Yrsa. "And luck is always welcome. If you didn't deduce that those creatures were hungry for our flesh, the fates smiled upon your decision."

Yrsa turns to the halfling as she prepares to continue the trek. "Leilara, are you all right?"
Mar 18, 2016 8:30 pm
"It was good fortune all around. It's always good fortune when you survive any battle," Magnus says.
Mar 18, 2016 8:36 pm
Leilara flashes a quick grimace at Yrsa after moving some red hair out of her face. "Same as ever I'm afraid, but with worse aim." She shifts into an actual grin. "Don't worry, my pride's more injured than anything!"
Last edited March 18, 2016 8:36 pm
Mar 18, 2016 10:26 pm
Aside from the relentless sun and the razor sharp winds, the rest of the day's travel goes on without any major incident. The sun is setting fast, and it would be wise to find somewhere to camp for the night.
Mar 18, 2016 10:51 pm
Yrsa calls over for a look at Leilara's map to see how close the group is to the indicated camp site.

Rolls

Survival - (1d20+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Mar 19, 2016 1:03 am
The map leads you to a small plateau of solid granite jutting out of the desert. The rock will keep you shielded from the desert, as well as providing some shade during the day.

Tsira left a small note about the area: Ancients.
Mar 19, 2016 1:49 am
Leilara's going to puzzle over the small note. Ancients? Have I heard of those?
OOC:
I quit forever.
Last edited March 19, 2016 1:49 am

Rolls

Intelligence (History) - (1d20+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Mar 19, 2016 1:53 am
DJForeclosure says:
Leilara's going to puzzle over the small note. Ancients? Have I heard of those?
OOC:
I quit forever.
Just the word 'ancients' alone is not enough info for Leilara, maybe this area is unknown even to the scholars of Eskilar?
OOC:
You might want to look around the area first for more information.
Mar 19, 2016 2:18 am
Yrsa helps the halfling look over the area. She is thankful for the campsite; it will be a fine place to rest. Of course, she is now curious as to the note regarding the place.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Mar 19, 2016 3:18 am
Leilara gives Yrsa a hand. Maybe if see can't use her mind right now, she could at least use her eyes.
OOC:
I'd like to Help Yrsa with her Perception rolls if possible. Otherwise I'll roll along with her.
Mar 19, 2016 3:51 am
DJForeclosure says:
Leilara gives Yrsa a hand. Maybe if see can't use her mind right now, she could at least use her eyes.
OOC:
I'd like to Help Yrsa with her Perception rolls if possible. Otherwise I'll roll along with her.
Go ahead and roll it, you don't need to ask :P
Mar 19, 2016 3:58 am
handle says:
DJForeclosure says:
Leilara gives Yrsa a hand. Maybe if see can't use her mind right now, she could at least use her eyes.
OOC:
I'd like to Help Yrsa with her Perception rolls if possible. Otherwise I'll roll along with her.
Go ahead and roll it, you don't need to ask :P
OOC:
I would have just rolled Perception, but I was hoping to take the Help action to give Yrsa Advantage on the Perception check. I believe that's something I can do? Would it be easier for me to just roll instead?
Mar 19, 2016 4:10 am
DJForeclosure says:
OOC:
I would have just rolled Perception, but I was hoping to take the Help action to give Yrsa Advantage on the Perception check. I believe that's something I can do? Would it be easier for me to just roll instead?
You can do the help action to give Yrsa advantage or you can roll it yourself, whichever you prefer.
Mar 19, 2016 4:24 am
OOC:
Poke, poke: Advantage for Yrsa. I trust not my rolls.
Mar 19, 2016 4:26 am
Aided by Leilara, Yrsa attempts another scan of the area, attention now fully on searching for clues as to the ambiguous moniker.

Rolls

Perception, Advantage - (1d20+3)

(12) + 3 = 15

Mar 19, 2016 10:16 am
Everyone starts looking around for clues on the ancients note on this area while Kali looks confused

"Ancients? You think there might be like a secret cave around here?"
OOC:
wanted to see if I could beat Yrsa score

Ffs!!!! Lol someone check if magic is causing bad rolls! Lol
Last edited March 19, 2016 10:18 am

Rolls

Perception check - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Mar 19, 2016 10:31 am
There are traces of paint near the bottom of the plateau, but time has worn them down too much for them to be of any worth. Further up the rocky cliff, Yrsa spots what looks what looks like a small opening- though it may be difficult to climb.
Mar 19, 2016 11:40 am
OOC:
If Leilara knows this or Yrsa tells her she's going up there IMMEDIATELY.
Mar 19, 2016 12:34 pm
Leilara assited Yrsa, so she knows as well.
OOC:
It would be athletics to climb, acrobatics if you somehow launched yourself up there
Mar 19, 2016 1:20 pm
OOC:
If someone had a ability to change into an animal that had a climb stat would that person need to roll a check? Asking for a friend lol
Mar 19, 2016 3:12 pm
Leilara grins from ear-to-ear, rubs her hands together, and begins to climb. "I'll be right back! This should just take a moment!"
OOC:
How far up is the cave?

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Mar 19, 2016 3:36 pm
Magnus follows after Leilara, "Best not to go alone."

Rolls

Athletics - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Mar 19, 2016 4:35 pm
Yrsa shrugs as she watches the halfling and human climb. "Maybe they forgot about your shapeshifting, dragonborn."
Mar 19, 2016 5:14 pm
Kalimonsore chuckles

"Well what do you expect me to transform into, I can't exactly turn into a owl and fly up there, I'm impressive but not that impressive... plus a halfling is not doing so bad on this climb so I guess I don't really need to shift"

The large dragonborn begins to follow Magnus and Leilara
OOC:
Famous last words?

Hahahaha I knew it
Last edited March 19, 2016 5:15 pm

Rolls

Athletics Check - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Mar 19, 2016 5:18 pm
OOC:
Hey, it's possible that a 14 won't make it anyways. :P

That being said, it should be noted that Leilara knows Sleep, Magic Missile, Misty Step, and Phantasmal Force.

Featherfall is notably missing from that list on this, of all occasions.
Mar 19, 2016 9:28 pm
Yrsa remains where she is, watching the proceedings. "I don't know, maybe a spider? Or a gecko, or something that's known to climb walls."
Mar 19, 2016 10:12 pm
OOC:
Yeah, a creature with a swim or climb speed does not need to roll to do those things, they come naturally to them.
Leilara makes it up to the top, she has to take a moment to catch her breath but she made it.

Magnus arrives to the top shortly after Leilara, he looks like he could've climbed a wall twice as high before he became winded.

Kalimonsore makes it about halfway, and then grabbed onto a loose rock. His grip slips and he plummets to the bottom, and lands on his back with a solid WHUMP! He takes 1d6 bludgeoning damage from the fall.

As Kalimonsore stands up, his pack begins to leak water. After a quick inspection it is apparent that his waterskin was flattened by the fall, and the contents of his pack were drenched by the water he lost.
Mar 19, 2016 10:25 pm
At the top of the plateau, Magnus and Leilara find a small cavity in the granite. Inside the air is dusty, with only a few streams of sunlight coming in from cracks at the top. The painted walls here are in much better condition, and they seem to tell a story of a battle between hunters and some sort of bird creature. The figures in the primitive story also seem to be jumping on top of the bird, you figure that the acients could've had access to magic or that the artist was simply too lazy.

The cave is small, so it doesn't take long to explore. You find small, worn down box that had been built into the rock. It is locked, naturally.
Mar 19, 2016 10:37 pm
OOC:
damage and loss of supplies, damn handle you're cold! Lol

Edit after to see how hurt Kali got

Rolls

Fall damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Mar 19, 2016 10:39 pm
SirRockNRolla says:
OOC:
damage and loss of supplies, damn handle you're cold! Lol
OOC:
Not lost, just moist!
Mar 19, 2016 10:41 pm
"I hope you saved the contract," Yrsa remarks, looking at her fingernails.
Mar 19, 2016 10:57 pm
Kalimonsore stands there, the contents of his pack sprawled all out on the floor after he got up from the floor and threw open the satchel, he has his arm across his stomach and his hand on his side, he leans down and picks up the envelope

"It's fine, just a little bit of water, I think my ego and body is a little more damaged than that!"

He begins placing back in some of the lesser wetter stuff before taking a swig of the last of the waterskin and throws it by the side

"Oh I'm "fine" by the way!"

Kalimonsore said to Yrsa before shaking his head

"How are you going to get up there then?"
Mar 19, 2016 11:14 pm
"If that's where we're camping," begins Yrsa, "the best thing would be for those above to secure a rope. Or was I the only one to bring a coil?"
Mar 19, 2016 11:44 pm
Kalimonsore nodded to Yrsa

"I have rope, I can shift and get up there and shift back out but I guess a rope is easier"

He looks up to the top and calls out

"Can you anchor a rope for us up there?"
Mar 19, 2016 11:56 pm
Leilara spends some long moments being lost in the beauty of the cave paintings. She almost runs between them as she's examining them, muttering to herself about other places she might have seen similar markings. It's only after she's unable to open the box that she realizes that Kali is asking about rope.

"Oh, sorry guys, one second!"

She'll pull one of the pitons out of her Dungeoneer's Pack, hammer it into the ground, tie a rope to it, and throw it down to her companions. Then she goes back to the box, wondering how she might get it open...
OOC:
Added some Sleight of Hand if you need that for the rope tying.

Edit: COULD I JUST NOT ROLL A FOUR ON ONE OF MY GOOD SKILLS PLEASE
Last edited March 19, 2016 11:56 pm

Rolls

Sleight of Hand (Rope Tying) - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Mar 20, 2016 12:02 am
Leilara easily secures the rope to the piton, it should be able to hold one person at a time.
OOC:
Give me a perception/investigation to check out the box
Mar 20, 2016 12:11 am
Magnus checks out the box, seeing if anything about it stands out.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Mar 20, 2016 12:18 am
The box is carved from stone, but is very old and could probably be smashed open. There are no immediate traps on the outside, but the fact that it seems unlocked is suspicious. After very cracking the box open by a hair, Magnus spots a mechanism on the inside. He can't tell what it is though, and he is not sure if it is magical or not.
OOC:
Slight of hand to attempt a disarm, athletics to smash the thing to pieces (if that floats your boat).
Mar 20, 2016 12:18 am
After the rope cascades down, Yrsa steadies it with her hand. "Do you know what a gecko is?" she asks Kalimonsore as she tests the rope. "Maybe a distant relative. Anyway, it's tiny, climbs up walls and sticks to ceilings, like a spider. Might be good for you to remember when there's a need for it."

With that, Yrsa scales the cliff and heads up to the cave.
Mar 20, 2016 12:29 am
"Magnus, did you say a mechanism?" Leilara repeats gleefully. Inching open the box, she gives it a sniff to see if she senses any magic about.

Rolls

Arcana - (1d20+1)

(14) + 1 = 15

Mar 20, 2016 12:30 am
"Yeah, there is something in here. Maybe your smaller hands would be better for disarming it than mine?"
Mar 20, 2016 12:56 am
DJForeclosure says:
"Magnus, did you say a mechanism?" Leilara repeats gleefully. Inching open the box, she gives it a sniff to see if she senses any magic about.
Definitely a magical trap of some kind, set to go off when the box is opened. Looks like a rune that will release a huge amount of combustible dust, and some sort of flint gear.
Mar 20, 2016 1:13 am
"I don't suppose anyone here is skilled with disenchantment or lock picking? If not, then I'll try this but I'll probably wait until we're ready to leave first."
Mar 20, 2016 6:46 am
Sticks to walls? Hmmm sounds interesting but no, never seen one, if you ever find one I'll love to study it or any other animals that may help in that case"

Kalimonsore waiting for Ysra to get to the top before climbing up too, he had already hurt himself and wasn't risking putting to much weight on the rope, he slowly but surely gets to the top and begins hearing about this magical box the others had found

"If someone thinks they can open this then I'll gladly help them anyway I can"

Kalimonsore takes of his damp satchel and places it away from the chest and crouches down next to it, looking at the focus
OOC:
Advantage to disarming anyone who has a decent dexterity bonus I'm guessing is the skill

Note: help from Kalimonsore may cause harm or destruction of property lol
Mar 20, 2016 5:43 pm
"Disarming traps isn't my strength," says Yrsa, "especially if it's a magical one. I'm never one to turn down the prospect of treasure, though."

The glint in her eye is noticeable as she kneels by the box, and tries to inspect the triggering mechanism as best she can. "If we can figure out what sets it, we might be able to disable it." Her voice quiets as she concentrates, slipping her fingers in and feeling the box.

Rolls

Sleight of Hand - (1d20+6)

(8) + 6 = 14

Mar 21, 2016 12:21 am
Yrsa is able to remove the gear inside the box, but is not able to disarm whatever triggered the rune. With the ignition source gone, the trap is rendered inert.

After warning the others, she opens the box. The rune goes off and a copious amount of dust begins to billow out from the box. Since the flint was removed there was no explosion, so the trap simply made the room mildly uncomfortable. After about 30 minutes, the dust from the trap either settled or was blown away by the wind. Inside the box, Yrsa finds an ornate ankle band with strange markings on it.

Other than the box there's not much else of worth inside the cave, but it will make for a secure campsite for the night. Other travelers might also see the area around the plateau as a good camp, but few would wish to climb it.
OOC:
To figure out what it does you'll need an identification spell, or an arcana check and some time.

Take any actions/make any plans you wish before you sleep, it counts as a long rest. It's also worth noting that a lot of things become active in the night, both man and monster.
Mar 21, 2016 12:29 am
Leilara sidles up next to Yrsa almost as soon as the dust clears.

"Mind if I take a look at that? I could check and see what it is, eventually."

She is extremely exuberant as she stares at the band.
Mar 21, 2016 2:17 am
Yrsa hands the band to the halfling. "Certainly, knock yourself out. Well, not literally, but sure."

She then prepares to make camp within the cave and announces, "Let's set a watch. I can take the first few hours, as contrary to appearances I can see respectably well in the dark."
Mar 21, 2016 11:25 am
"Just nudge me and I'll take second watch"

Kalimonsore pulled the bedroll from his bag and threw it to the side, it was still damp from the earlier accident, he sat against the cave wall, he pulled up his side revealing his scaled white side, there was a deep bruise that was larger than a hand that had formed, he just let go off his clothes letting them drape back down

"You think this is a test? A random box up here all alone, Tisra knew about this place, if she knew then others surely will, so how come there's this box?"
Mar 21, 2016 12:56 pm
"I'll take the last watch," Magnus volunteers, "It is a bit odd that this is out here unprotected and undisturbed."
Mar 21, 2016 3:46 pm
Yrsa shrugs. "She just wrote 'Ancients' which could just be notes on what we would find here." She points to the paintings. "Seems to me these are the ancients, so I figure it's just a reference."

The pirate steps to the ledge and begins to pull up the rope, leaving it attached to the piton for emergencies. "I'm sure half the desert knows about this cave. As far as whoever left the box, they obviously thought their little trick would be enough to keep folk away. Their loss." Yrsa shrugs, and sets up a lookout position at the mouth of the cave, where she can stare out at the desert expanse.
Mar 21, 2016 4:09 pm
"Well I hope whoever left it isn't going to be coming around anytime soon"

Kali puts his head on the cold stone ground and rests up
OOC:
Sleeping situations are always awkward so I don't know if we are skipping time or what
Mar 21, 2016 4:09 pm
Leilara is entirely oblivious to the discussion. She's poring over the band's markings, attempting to learn whatever about them that she can (and if she can't it's a mystery: even better!). As she does so, she's trying to perceive the arcane warp and weft of the band to the best of her ability, though it's admittedly difficult with how chaotic her own abilities are.

Unless literally prodded, Leilara's going to do this until she can no longer hold her eyes open, at which point she'll fall asleep with no thought about taking watch or anything else. She'll feel bad about it in the morning though.
OOC:
Going to roll both History and Arcana as Leilara reviews the item for anything she can get.

Rolls

History - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Arcana - (1d20+1)

(12) + 1 = 13

Mar 21, 2016 9:13 pm
SirRockNRolla says:
"Well I hope whoever left it isn't going to be coming around anytime soon"

Kali puts his head on the cold stone ground and rests up
OOC:
Sleeping situations are always awkward so I don't know if we are skipping time or what
OOC:
Yeah it'll be a timeskip to the next event, I'm just giving you guys time to talk/heal. Although you don't any healing I suppose. :P
Mar 21, 2016 10:02 pm
Magnus stretches and gives his armor a good looking-over. Satisfied that it's still in good shape he sits down to enjoy his meal before sleep. "That was some impressive work back there," he says, then turns to Leilara, "Figure anything out yet?"
Mar 21, 2016 10:38 pm
@Leilara - After tinkering with the thing for a couple of hours you discern that the band is imbued with magic! Specifically, when someone wears the band they can cast the spell 'Jump' on themselves. You also figure that the ancient civilization that used these bands were pretty skilled with magic, which explains how they were able to live in such a inhospitable place.
OOC:
Jump: (1 Action) (1 Minute) You touch a creature. The creature's jump distance is tripled until the spell ends.

Gotta go to work, I'll post more later

Edit: Whoops, had no time today. But soooooon.
Mar 22, 2016 2:05 am
As it's only been perhaps an hour, Leilara's tinkering and examining has only begun. She appears to have pulled out a rusty-looking magnifying glass, spat on it, and rubbed some dirt off of it (maybe) before closely inspecting the markings on the band with insect-large eyes.

She's only somewhat aware that Magnus addressed her, so her answer is as follows.

"... Figure? Figures! The hieroglyphs around the upper band depict members of the 'Ancients' society! They seem to be... flying? No that's not right. But thanks Magnus!"

It'll be another few hours before she deciphers the mystery, but when she does, she knows exactly who would be the perfect person to test it.
Mar 22, 2016 2:12 am
"Who were these 'Ancients' anyway?" asks Yrsa, still looking out across the desert. "Did they rule this place before we came around?"

Rolls

History - (1d20-1)

(9) - 1 = 8

Mar 22, 2016 7:39 am
Kalimonsore laid on the floor, the dragonborns breathing slowed as he fell asleep even with all the talking going on around, he was tired from the progress they had made towards the den, transforming for him was more tiresome than a more suitable race and the fall had both taken there toll on him, he lay there silent all but the sound of him breathing which had caused a thin layer of frost on the stone floor a few inches long from his mouth
Mar 23, 2016 11:47 am
OOC:
Sorry, been busy as hell. Will have something up by Friday!
Mar 24, 2016 12:52 pm
OOC:
Aaaaand I am back. Dang real life getting in the way, thanks for being patient with me!
Scanning the horizon, Yrsa ponders about the 'ancients'. The fact that their civilization existed is well known throughout the Kamatayan, but hardly anyone knows anything specific. Their culture is a mystery, but their artifacts are found all over the desert. So it would be safe to assume they were successful in whatever they did, and were able to spread themselves very far.

The night goes by slow and cold, the distant starlight is beautiful but does little to keep you warm. Leilara spent most of the night fiddling with the artifact, but she eventually let herself rest. She determined that the ankle band would let anyone, regardless of magical ability, cast the 'jump' spell on themselves up to three times per day. She couldn't figure out how it worked, but she theorized that it might charge itself by absorbing mana from sunlight.

...

After Yrsa's shift was over, she woke up Magnus and swapped places with him. The human kept watch until the morning came. He fiddled with a crossbow bolt, thought of his child, Varkas, and examined the case of Genera tobacco.

Moments before dawn, Magnus's instincts flare. He had been listening to the sounds of the desert for half of the night, and suddenly he heard new sounds. He heard indistinct conversation and sounds of packs being thrown on the ground. It was obvious that there was another group of travelers making camp by the base of the plateau.

Slowly and steadily, Magnus approached the rocky cliff to peer over the edge. A blade of yucca dug into his leg and he crouched, but he hardly felt it. There were three brigands on the ground below, they looked like they had traveled all night and sought shelter under the rocks before the sun started to rise.

The first looks like a dullard more suited for doing a noble's dirty work than traversing the desert. The second wears little armor, but wields a great axe. The third looks experienced, and half of his skull has no hair due to a large burn scar.
OOC:
Yrsa took the first watch shift, so I just picked randomly as to who was going to be the one who took the morning shift.

If you got any questions, ask em. Passive perception!

Magnus gets the first crack at any actions, since he is the one awake. However, everyone else will start to wake up very shortly.
Mar 24, 2016 1:36 pm
Magnus quietly works his way back to the others, gently shaking them awake and telling them of the scene below in a whisper.

Rolls

Stealth (Disadvantage) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

1d20+2 : (8) + 2 = 10

1d20+2 : (14) + 2 = 16

Mar 24, 2016 5:54 pm
Yrsa places a finger to her lips as Magnus whispers her awake. Think of what you see instead of whispering, come her words in Magnus' mind. I will relay it to the others.

Once the situation below is described, Yrsa takes a moment to consider. Then her mind reaches out to the group as she thinks, They are obviously making camp. Let them settle in and sleep while we observe and figure out who they are.
OOC:
Awakened Mind is a one-to-one conversation, of course, but for sake of simplicity may I assume that my thoughts are eventually relayed to everyone else?
Last edited March 24, 2016 5:56 pm
Mar 24, 2016 7:29 pm
OOC:
Technically, Awakened Mind is actually only one-way (Warlock to someone else), but in my games I've always allowed two-way. How does Handle handle it, I wonder?
Mar 24, 2016 8:00 pm
OOC:
Wow, upon re-reading it, I totally misinterpreted the ability. My bad!
Mar 24, 2016 10:08 pm
OOC:
Awakened mind's description is vague, but it does seem to be one-sided. Being able to facilitate the entire party's dialog silently seems broken for a such an early spell.

But Magnus can just whisper what he saw to Yrsa, and then she could communicate it to the others.
Mar 25, 2016 11:20 am
Kalimonsore was against the cave wall, his knees close to his chest and his head lowered, he was not asleep but neither awake, he felt the rooms atmosphere change as he looked up and opened his eyes as whispers came from Ysra about the people below, in hushed tones he spoke

"If they knew about this place they would have came up here, I know I'd rather stay up here then down there"

Kalimonsore looked towards the entrance to the cave.

"Could they have followed us, sand tracks, that things insides scattered across the desert.....what do we do?"
Mar 25, 2016 12:46 pm
Leilara doesn't wake easily at first, but with one final word she bolts upward, fully alert. When the others explain the situation, she whispers her own plans.

"Well, if they're just blocking the way down we can try and talk to them. But if they prove to be hostile..." She twiddles her fingers menacingly. "We just get them to take a little nap and figure out if they're more than just bandits when they're properly trussed."
Last edited March 25, 2016 12:46 pm
Mar 25, 2016 4:26 pm
"At least we know there down there and they don't know we are up here, we have the higher ground, there's three options, let them leave, we talk to them or we get the upper hand and attack first, it's going to be hard tactically to get us but diplomacy should always come first in my opinion, I'd say we wait tho less risk."
Mar 25, 2016 4:59 pm
Yrsa tries to pick up any conversation from below, while remaining out of sight beyond the edge of the cliff wall.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(12) + 3 = 15

Mar 25, 2016 11:40 pm
"I'd rather not delay any more than we have to, but I have a feeling it may come to a fight if we were to try speaking to them. They look like the unsavory sort."
Mar 26, 2016 12:23 am
Yrsa listens in as the strangers settle into their camp, and she manages to catch the end of their conversation.

"There ain't no treasure in the middle of the desert, ya fool." says the man sharpening his greataxe.

The dullard quickly responds, "There is! Back at the main camp, Cragcrawler and Lil Dustin told me they heard about a new dragon moved in near the mouth of the sea and brought a mountain of treasure!"

"Lil Dustin is a child, and the last time the boss took Cragcrawler's advice led to a failed raid!"

The two glare at each other from across the fire. There's an awkward silence. For a while, the only sound is the popping and sizzling of lizard kebabs roasting over the flames. The third man speaks while grabbing one of the lizards and taking a bite.

"What we do is up to the boss, for now we are just going to report back. Finish up and get some rest, all this talk is a waste of water."
Mar 26, 2016 7:28 am
Yrsa sits back, content to allow the group below to rest. She pulls her knees up to rest her arms upon them, and leans her head against the cavern wall. Her good eye closes, almost serene.
Mar 26, 2016 8:38 am
The rest of their conversation involves meaningless things: what they are going to eat the next day, the prostitutes they missed the most, and why the plants look so weird in the desert. Bhjurba's Den is mentioned, but not enough to glean information. Though, it does appear they know of the place pretty well.

Their camp is strategically placed where the shade will last the longest, and the dullard quickly starts making his bed. The man with the greataxe rests sitting against a rock hugging his axe, and the scarred man stays wide awake brewing some sort of drink over the fire.
Mar 26, 2016 12:10 pm
Kali looks to Ysra before looking around, he didn't like being in this position of not knowing who these people where and what there intentions where but he placed his head on the bedroll that had dried out more, he layed there before quietly speaking up

"If anything happens, even in the slightest just call out"

Kali turned around and held his sword close to him as he faced the wall just blankly staring at it, he didn't know if he'd get back to sleep or not
Mar 26, 2016 5:59 pm
Remaining still and relaxed, Yrsa's thoughts wrap around the party's consciousness. If they stay longer than overnight, we'll have to confront them; at the very least to get past.
Mar 26, 2016 6:08 pm
Leilara is a bit pensive, with a half-cocked grin. "I bet news of this dragon would be quite welcome to Lady Tsira. Another source of wealth for the estate would be... quite useful I imagine. Well... assuming we can procure it."
Mar 26, 2016 6:24 pm
OOC:
dragon is Tsira and treasure is the "omen treasure horde" lol
Mar 26, 2016 6:25 pm
OOC:
This occurred to Leilara about as well as it occurred to me. :D
Last edited March 26, 2016 6:44 pm
Mar 26, 2016 6:27 pm
"Sounds like we might have to figure out who's in charge of their little group. Maybe we should have a little talk with them? Can't have them going after Tsira while we're gone, can we?"
Mar 26, 2016 7:42 pm
They're going back to their camp, thinks Yrsa to the group. The keep is well-guarded by the others. I recall even Magnus' brother is there. But, if you want to chat, you could probably glean something useful if you ask the right questions. Or we can follow them.
Mar 26, 2016 7:48 pm
"They've delayed us enough. If we want to find anything out from them, let's just ask. Otherwise they won't be worth the time we've spent on them already."
Mar 26, 2016 10:41 pm
OOC:
It would be possible to sneak past them, you'd just have slide down that rope one at a time. With a stealth check, naturally.

Fromt their discussion you can their camp is about 2 days away. I wouldn't advise following them, but any info you get about them you could send back to Tsira using that rune paper she gave to Yrsa.
Mar 26, 2016 11:17 pm
OOC:
Ah, I thought they were literally right below us.
Yrsa's eye pops open. "If you wish to speak to them, wait until they sleep. I'll see if I can charm the watchman into a private conversation with one or two of us, while the others keep cover."
Mar 28, 2016 8:08 am
Nothing else changes after you wait around, and the only one who seems awake is the man with the scar - now drinking whatever he brewed over the campfire.
Mar 28, 2016 11:08 am
Kali begins packing up his things

"We need to be on are way, scouting them, talking to them or even more is just going to cause issues, we where chosen to do this job, if you wish to stay around and ponder the outcomes then by all means go ahead, we need to pack up and be on are way, we have a long day of walking ahead of us!"

He was quiet but stern in his way, he knew if there where to pose a threat dialogue or more is on the table but he wasn't going to do anything reckless like go down there just to find out who they are and where there going, he wanted to complete the task that was set before them
Last edited March 28, 2016 12:02 pm
Mar 28, 2016 11:31 am
OOC:
@Kalimonsore - This is all taking place in the morning after you guys originally set up camp, sorry if I was unclear about that!
Mar 28, 2016 11:59 am
OOC:
Ah okay I'll just edit it
Mar 31, 2016 3:47 am
Leilara shrugs. "Yeah, I can't see much reason to stay here any longer. We should let Lady Tsira know that there are bandits who know of her arrival, but we can deal with them when the time comes." She then tries to sneak out of the cavern as quietly as possible, so as not to disturb the nearby nappers.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6)

(11) + 6 = 17

Mar 31, 2016 3:51 am
Yrsa strings her longbow and nocks an arrow to cover Leilara's descent.
Mar 31, 2016 7:01 am
Leilara deftly slides down the rope and dashes a good distance away to a good vantage point.

It doesn't look like the man on watch noticed at all.
Mar 31, 2016 7:04 am
Next, comes Yrsa's thought to those remaining in the cave. Her sights are set on the watchman, but her bowstring is not drawn just yet.
Mar 31, 2016 11:38 am
Leilara watches her allies from the cover of some nearby rocks, pleased by her effective maneuver.
Mar 31, 2016 12:01 pm
Kalimonsore packs up his bedroll and nods to Ysra before grabbing the rope and slowly begins to decend the rock face

Rolls

Stealth roll - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

Mar 31, 2016 12:34 pm
Kalimonsore also slides down the rope and softly lands onto the sand below. The sand is still a bit moist from the cold morning air, so it sticks to his boots as makes his way to the same area as Leilara.
Mar 31, 2016 1:01 pm
Magnus nods silently to Yrsa before attempting to navigate the rope quietly in his bulky armor.

Rolls

Stealth (Disadvantage) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

1d20+2 : (17) + 2 = 19

1d20+2 : (18) + 2 = 20

Mar 31, 2016 1:09 pm
OOC:
What is this disadvantage you speak of? You rolled super good! :P
Magnus manhandles the rope and scales the cliff with the grace of sandworm plucking a bird out of the air (which is pretty damn graceful, if you've ever seen it). He makes his way to the rest of the party, leaving Yrsa alone on the plateau.
Mar 31, 2016 1:10 pm
After reaching the bottom of the rope Magnus puts a hand on the hilt of his blade, preparing to draw it in case the thugs catch on to their presence.
Mar 31, 2016 3:44 pm
Yrsa stows her weapons and gives the cave a once-over to make sure they haven't left anything behind. As she prepares to descend, she is overcome with nostalgia and begins to remember riggings and sails, swinging across bows with blade in hand.
OOC:
Edit to add:
When she reaches the bottom, Yrsa holds up her hand to Magnus, then scrunches her fingers into claws and draws it back like a cobra. As her hand nears her temple, Yrsa flicks it outward like a whip and a spectral copy of her hand appears after she recoils. Satisfied with her casting, Yrsa sends the Mage Hand up to the top to retrieve the rope.
Last edited March 31, 2016 3:54 pm

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Apr 1, 2016 7:42 am
Yrsa successfully sneaks down and grabs the rope. The man at the fire never suspected a thing!
Apr 1, 2016 11:39 am
"We must keep moving"

He looks towards the halfling

"lead the way, best to go the long way around to avoid these guys"

Kali keeps looking around the rock peaking to see what the men are up to and to make sure no one saw them
Apr 1, 2016 1:26 pm
Leilara nods, her head buried once again in the map.

"C'mon, this way!" she whispers, peering around any upcoming brush or rock to check if the remaining bandit sentry notices anything.
Apr 1, 2016 4:29 pm
Let sleeping dogs lie, Yrsa thinks to herself, covering her smirk with her head wrap and desert garb. She quickly pads off after Leilara.
Apr 1, 2016 4:30 pm
Magnus, amazed by the lack of alertness in the guard, follows after his companions.
Apr 2, 2016 2:09 am
The party successfully avoids the dubious travelers!

Everyone in the party gains 50 experience points for the 'encounter'!

With Leilara leading, the group continues their journey through the desert towards Bhjurba's Den.
OOC:
@Leilara - Give me a survival check for your navigational skills.
Apr 2, 2016 2:26 am
OOC:
Can Yrsa assist, since she has proficiency with Navigator's Tools?
Apr 2, 2016 2:26 am
"I'm pretty sure it's this way!"
OOC:
ME ROLL GOOD
Last edited April 2, 2016 3:59 am

Rolls

Survival - (1d20+1)

(9) + 1 = 10

Survival(ADV) - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Apr 2, 2016 3:35 am
OOC:
Yes, of course you can assist! Teamwork is magic! Leilara should roll with an advantage with Yrsa's help.
Apr 2, 2016 4:01 am
"Ummmm... I'm not sure if I'm reading this right. Anyone else wanna take a look?"
Apr 2, 2016 4:18 am
OOC:
You also get +2 to rolls due to the map btw so I don't know if you're counting that too but yeah those rolls are great lol
Apr 2, 2016 4:23 am
SirRockNRolla says:
OOC:
You also get +2 to rolls due to the map btw so I don't know if you're counting that too but yeah those rolls are great lol
OOC:
WHOOPS. Still a 12 and 7 though.
Apr 2, 2016 4:57 am
The group spends a quarter of the day traveling, albeit slowly due to the amount of obstacles on the route Leilara plotted. There was a field of strange thorny plants that resembled sea urchins, jagged terrain, and a few spots of quicksand that Leilara didn't even notice until she stepped into them. Magnus was able to easily pull her out of the sand, but it was still an unpleasant experience.

Overall, nothing bad happened - just annoying problems. On the bright side, if anyone was following you secretly they would have a hell of a time trying to track you!

After trudging through a particularly sweltering stretch of desert, the party stopped for a rest near the only landmark for miles - ruins of a raided caravan. While resting, a plume black smoke can be seen rising from the direction of Bhjurba's Den. Based on the map it'll only take a few more hours to reach your destination, so you should reach it just as the sun is setting.

As of right now the group has drank more than half of their water supply, due to Kalimonsore's loss of his share and the problems navigating. I added the additional goal of 'restock on water' to the first post. Failure to meet this goal will result in a loss of 200 XP when you complete the mission!
OOC:
This is time for you guys to make any last minute plans about how to handle the slavers, when you are ready to head off again just give me the word! You won't need to roll to navigate again.
Apr 2, 2016 5:24 am
"Now that we're almost there, let's decide our course of action. Kali, you're planning on being the primary negotiator?"
Apr 2, 2016 10:03 pm
"Yes I will speak to them, we have the letter and what lady Tsira gave to you Magnus, we do not know how many people are in this den but I hope only this goes well for are sakes and the rest of the camps, we also have those people out there looking around and they are currently between us and the camp."
Apr 4, 2016 1:12 am
"A place like that ought to have a market," says Yrsa, standing on a ruined wagon for a better perch to spy on the column of black smoke. "Before or after our meeting, we'll need to restock our supplies for the trip back."

She hops down to rejoin the group. "If they agree to meet with us when we arrive tonight, perhaps they'll have already eaten and drunk their fill, and be in a more agreeable mood."
Apr 4, 2016 4:00 am
Leilara suddenly remembers something. "Oh! That's right! Magnus, try this out!" She slaps the bracelet onto his ankle. "It should really help you leap into battle!" she exclaims, grinning wildly.
Last edited April 4, 2016 1:20 pm
Apr 4, 2016 7:29 am
OOC:
Cough, cough - ankle band - cough.
Apr 4, 2016 1:20 pm
OOC:
Why do you expect me to READ on a play-by-post forum?! Also, ankle bracelet does make it easier for Leilara to put it on him...
Apr 4, 2016 1:40 pm
"Thank you Leilara, I'll use it well," Magnus says, truly grateful for the gift.
OOC:
Is there a limit to the number of times this can be used in a day?
Last edited April 4, 2016 1:42 pm
Apr 6, 2016 9:56 am
OOC:
It can be used 3 times per day.

Sorry for the late replies, I've been busy as hell lately... what else is new. This weekend will be clear though!
As the group rests, several more pillars of black smoke rise into the sky. Anyone who is familiar with sieges or warfare would recognize it as a clear sign that there is a battle underway.
Apr 6, 2016 3:53 pm
"Huh," quips Yrsa, retaking her position on the ruined wagons for a better vantage. "Well... maybe they're just... having a barbeque?"
Apr 6, 2016 4:03 pm
"That'd be a mighty large barbecue. We'd better get over there before there's no Den to make a contract with."
Apr 6, 2016 4:12 pm
Yrsa inwardly wishes she had her mother's spyglass. "I don't know, it's generally not a good idea to walk into a battlefield while it's taking place. And even if we did manage to get past whoever's attacking the place, I don't think negotiating a supply contract with a keep in the middle of nowhere is very high on their list of priorities."
Apr 6, 2016 4:22 pm
"Well, we may as well go and get a closer look. Can't make any decisions unless we know what we're dealing with."
Apr 7, 2016 8:51 am
Kalimonsore spoke up, he had an idea

"We should scout it out! I can transform into a horse and someone could ride me closer to get a better look, if there's bad guys there, it's easier for someone to get away on horse then by foot, of course there's the issue that you could fall off."
Apr 10, 2016 2:39 am
OOC:
You guys would be able to move stealthily and still make it to Bhjurba's Den with daylight. Though, using your animal form to scout out the interior of the city is a great way to stay undercover - even if someone saw you they would just think it was an animal!
Apr 11, 2016 2:45 am
"Well, if nothing else, I want to get a bit closer." Leilara whispers, before sneaking forward a bit.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6)

(9) + 6 = 15

Apr 11, 2016 4:44 am
"A cat or a rat would be more inconspicuous," suggests Yrsa to Kalimonsore. "Scout ahead and see what the situation is, and we'll be able to make a better decision on what to do next. We can try and get as close as possible before you move in."

Yrsa follows the halfling forward, to the rising columns of black smoke.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(2) + 4 = 6

Apr 11, 2016 6:03 am
Kalimonsore just nodded before he got onto his knees, the transformation beginning as the big frame of the dragonborn turns into a small ginger Cat, the closest colour to the desert sand he could get as Kali began to pounce forward towards the black rising smoke, scouting ahead looking or hearing for anything that may signal what is happening or what happened here
OOC:
Want to know more about the area for attempting to climb wall or the such

Rolls

Stealth check - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Perception check - (1d20+1)

(20) + 1 = 21

Apr 11, 2016 12:52 pm
Magnus tries to follow as stealthily as he can in his bulky armor.

Rolls

Stealth (Disadvantage) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

1d20+2 : (4) + 2 = 6

1d20+2 : (10) + 2 = 12

Apr 14, 2016 3:32 am
The party comes across what must be Bhjurba's Den, what's left of it anyway. The outskirts are a shanty town consisting of cages, tents, and shacks. There are more stone buildings and a few towers near the middle of the city.

However, it looks as though the town has been under siege. There are several large fires, and the outer limits of the city looks deserted. You don't see any invading forces or hear the sounds of a raging battle, but it might just be due to lull in combat. The air smells of burnt flesh and filth.

The party gets 150 XP for making it to Bhjurba's Den!
Leilara gains and extra 150 XP for using her quest item!


...

Ahead of the rest of the group, Kalimonsore scouts the town as a cat. From what he can tell, the slaves were all kept in pens and storage areas, while their masters enjoyed life in the large stone buildings in the middle of the town. All of the shackles and pens are empty, and most of the merchant stalls have been looted. There are many corpses of both slaves and city guards strewn about the alleys. The carnage gets worse the closer Kalimonsore gets to the center of the settlement.

It appears that the slaves staged a revolt against their masters, and judging by the lack of imprisoned slaves it looks like they were successful. By stealthy sneaking around the town as a cat, Kalimonsore discovers a sturdy looking butcher's shop that appears to be the headquarters of the revolt - as it is guarded by alert slaves. Furthermore, he discovers that by jumping across the roof of a few buildings and over a wall, one can easily bypass the defenses of the stone towers.

The most affluent of the masters appeared to have lived in the stone towers, but the slaves have not been able to pierce the stone walls that encircle them yet. However, the buildings outside of the tower walls have been broken in to, and it might prove profitable to take a look around.
OOC:
Though it's a bit hard to tell the difference between the dead, the slaves are generally dirtier and more poor-looking, while the guards are better fed and look healthier. Well, healthier when they were alive
Apr 15, 2016 12:14 pm
Kalimonsore started to the head back to the group, he had gone on his own to scout the higher ground, he knew what he had saw, the others couldn't, he got back to the group and transformed back, the dragonborn kneeling on the ground "There is something going on in there, dead soldiers and slaves everywhere, its...its bad, it looks clear for us to go in there but...I think the slaves over ran them or something, I don't know if we should go in there" Kali didnt like the prospect of just walking in there "Theres a shop in there, there's slaves guarding outside, you see that tower" he points to the stone tower in view "They have not got in there but want to, there's probably slavers or innocent people in there, there is no negotiations anymore!" Kali sounded worried with the last of them, he wasn't used to this death and destruction, yes he has got people killed and had to kill but didn't mean he enjoyed it, seeing dead slaves from all ages had took a toll on the dragonborn
OOC:
F U for putting in this dilemma lol
Apr 15, 2016 1:03 pm
"This doesn't change our mission. We need to make contact and secure a contract for food. The question now is if we should contact the slaves or the slavers?"
Apr 15, 2016 2:37 pm
"I'm all for throwing our lot in with our liberated friends to start. It looks like they have things in control at the moment, and I imagine they could use our contract just as much, if not more, as their former masters did."

Leilara thinks for a moment.

"Oh, and if we're REALLY strapped for a deal, we can always 'investigate' the abandoned buildings."
Last edited April 15, 2016 2:39 pm
Apr 15, 2016 4:16 pm
Yrsa considers. "Either side would want Lady Omon's supplies of arms and armor. I think we've just found our leverage towards getting a better deal.

"However, if we back the slaves, what will they do if they win? Stay here? Establish yet another slaver colony? There are a lot of unknowns if we choose that route, which may impact the long-term viability of the contract."
Apr 16, 2016 9:26 am
OOC:
Oho, you guys are smart cookies. Remember, if you want to know about anything in more detail just ask!
Apr 16, 2016 12:08 pm
"There is no way we.....I can strike down innocent people, we help the slaves we have to kill the slavers and vice versa, this not just a simple trade agreement anymore, many lives including thosw back there at camp are at risk, we cannot risk speaking to each group, its vital we must pick a side and live with whatever consequences follow!"
Apr 16, 2016 11:14 pm
"If we're picking a side, I pick the former slaves. If we're playing one side against the other... well, that's just good politics. We are here to get the best deal for Lady Tsira, after all. That, of course, assumes there is another side and that there are actually any members of the former 'Den' left in those towers."

Leilara thinks again.

"What if we went to both and tried to negotiate some sort of truce where we're the biggest benefactors? It seems like you can climb up into the towers, right Kali? What if two of us went up there and the rest chatted up the current victors? We can see what each side is willing to offer and maybe prevent some bloodshed. That being said, I'm not taking part in a deal that involves re-enslaving anyone."
Apr 18, 2016 10:44 am
"But the former slaves will wish to go home surely, they are not getting through to that tower soon tho, I can easily get in there tho but getting out is not going to be easy, theres a reason why those people are still there, I get up there as a cat, I cannot change back to climb back over, being a dragonborn and a shifter is not perfect, we aren't built to be shifters, some say we are the weakest of all dragonborn, we are hampered by are abilitys we are born with, its a gift and a curse." Kali took a long cold breath "I can talk to them but the slaves will see me leave if I do, they will try to kill me thinking im apart of the slavers, we cannot be diplomatic, we must side with the slaves and hope for the best"
OOC:
Damn you wild shape only twice! lol
Apr 18, 2016 4:22 pm
"Whichever side you pick, remember that our task is to secure a trade contract for Lady Omon," says Yrsa, arms folded across her chest. Her amethyst eye burns from beneath her head wrap.
Apr 18, 2016 4:28 pm
"Whichever side we decide to assist will be in our debt and vulnerable. Shouldn't be too hard to secure a favorable contract."
Apr 18, 2016 4:54 pm
Yrsa's eye twinkles. "I've no doubt," she says with a tint of glee, mentally rubbing her hands together at the prospect of having something valuable. "If we speak with the ex-slaves, as Kali suggested, they may be desperate enough to agree to anything."
Apr 19, 2016 9:11 am
OOC:
@Leilara - It is safe to assume that the masters are still alive and kicking in those towers, once in a while you hear the sounds of boiling oil being poured on potential attackers. It is also VERY safe to assume that there are some goodies that have not been looted in the buildings surrounding the walls.

Kalimonsore knows the streets well enough to lead everyone there. Don't forget about your nifty deception/performance skills if feel like you'll stand out to much to the guards or slave rebels.

And to make it over the tower's walls you don't have to be a cat, you just gotta make the jump from the rooftop. The walls are about 30ft high.
Apr 19, 2016 10:36 am
"I suggest we not wait, we must talk with the slaves but there are people in that tower, we must get them safe passage, here!" He pulls out the envelope and hands it to Ysra "You three speak to the slaves, you will need to lie to them, we was here to do business with the very people there trying to kill, i'll climb the tower and watch over, if the people inside are planning something or have sent for help, I want fair warning and that tower is the best spot"
Apr 19, 2016 3:56 pm
Yrsa takes the envelope, too dumbfounded to argue. "You're going to do what?!"
Apr 19, 2016 4:09 pm
"The people that are in the towers are just the slavers, right? Setting them free may not sit well with the ex-slaves and may jeopardize the mission."
Apr 19, 2016 4:43 pm
"I'm going to watch those in the tower, they are fighting back and if they decide to come out, I don't want to be caught in the middle, we don't know how many are in there and how many slaves there are, they will not just come out they will plan otherwise they are just waiting for there deaths there"
Apr 19, 2016 5:56 pm
"Yeah, I was only suggesting we treat with both sides to see what they are offering. Maybe we can prevent more people from being skewered or getting boiled in oil. I don't think Lady Tsira is so particular that we MUST treat with the slavers, but we still might want to talk to both sides. ...Right?"

Conflict makes Leilara wonder if plan creation was a bit out of her depth.

"Also! Yrsa! Don't you have that paper that can contact Lady Tsira? Maybe we can ask her opinion...?"
Last edited April 19, 2016 5:56 pm
Apr 19, 2016 6:05 pm
"It's one-way, dear," says Yrsa, referring to the magical parchment. "We can get the news to her, but we won't get a reply. I had hoped to save it for some good news, like 'Contract acquired, expect return' or something."

She looks out over the city's expanse. "If I had to choose, I might go with these ex-slaves. Having freed themselves, you'd think they'd all flee, but instead they're laying siege to the center. They must have some stake in this location to stick around, and perhaps that means they'll be more inclined to accept Lady Omon's contract. Not saying they're trustworthy, but it might be favorable."
Apr 22, 2016 8:34 am
"We must make contact then, theres a butchers shop in the city, theres some slaves outside, im guessing its where they are based, id suggest heading there, i'll show you where but don't fret on my intentions, my intentions are clear, we make the deal with the slaves if we can, I will not put this mission in jeapody!"
Apr 25, 2016 7:21 pm
"Alright, let's go talk with the new masters then!" Leilara takes a few steps into the city, then looks back at the group.
Apr 26, 2016 3:22 pm
"Wait for me, i'll take you there!" Kali walked back in the city, corpses on the street and blood form small rivers, kali begins heading the group towards the possible ex-slaves HQ "Before we get there I must change"
OOC:
If no hiccups on the way i guess we are all good to get there
Apr 28, 2016 1:31 am
OOC:
Sorry, been preoccupied with moving to a new country. Will have a post up soon!
May 3, 2016 5:03 pm
OOC:
Alright, I totally over estimated my ability to travel and post at the same time. Forgive me!

You guys are headed to the butcher shop all together then? Kaay~
The partly follows Kalimonsore though the battle torn streets, over heaps of corpses, and though some tight alleyways. While squeezing through one particularly disgusting alley, Magnus and Yrsa notice that walls are in poor condition. It wouldn't be hard to climb them or even smash through them. It's a wonder that the revolt didn't completely destroy the slums.

Suddenly, a group of three former slaves blocks the way. When Kalimonsore halts the party, three more violent looking slaves block the rear. Their apparent leader speaks up, kicking some of the debris out of the way as she does.

"Bhjurba sends more mercenaries to their deaths, we'll launch your corpses at the tower to send a message."

About half of the slaves look pretty intent on fighting, but the other half looks a bit weary. When was the last time these guys got a good amount of sleep since the revolt started?
OOC:
Professional diagram!
https://i.imgur.com/4CETlsP.png
May 3, 2016 5:17 pm
"We don't work for Bhjurba," says Yrsa, slowly holding her hands up to show no weapons. She lowers the section of headwrap covering her nose and mouth. "We're here to speak to the new masters, which I assume is you?"
May 3, 2016 7:28 pm
"We're just here for business, to negotiate for some trade. All we want are some clients. Our dragonborn friend here can tell you more about what we're offering." She indicates Kali, who offered to be the face of the mission at the start (from what she remembers).
Last edited May 3, 2016 7:29 pm
May 4, 2016 11:41 am
Kali holds his hands up "We heard there was trouble and have been sent to help you, look.." Kali slowly reaches into his satchel as he felt the slavers feel nervous "Hey look im just gettinng this envelope" he pulls it out "This is a deal proposed by Lady Tsira with clear instructions we give it to the leader of your uprising"

Rolls

Persuasion Check - (1d20+1)

(14) + 1 = 15

May 7, 2016 1:33 am
OOC:
Alright, moved in and got internet. I can finally start posting with some regularity again, wooo!
The freed slaves uncomfortably shift around, unsure of how to proceed. Two slaves in back exchange a glance and decide the fight isn't worth the energy. Their leader spits out an insult as they run away.

"Run away, you cowards! Those fools like that who keep the masters in power! I ain't heard of this 'Tsira' you speak of, but I know damn well that I won't work for another lady, lord, or master as long as I live!"

Invigorated by their leader's passionate outburst, the rest of the slaves get ready for a fight.

Roll for initiative! We are doing block-initiative, so each side rolls 1d20 to see which group goes first. Since Kalimonsore was the one talking, he'll be the one rolling for the party!
OOC:
You can choose to deal either lethal or non-lethal damage, whatever floats your boat.

Rolls

Freed Slaves Initative - (1d20)

(2) = 2

May 7, 2016 1:38 pm
OOC:
Rolling

Rolls

Initiative roll - (1d20)

(9) = 9

May 7, 2016 5:09 pm
"Who said you'd be working for us?" asks Yrsa, falling to a defensive pose as her scimitar and whip are drawn in each hand. "We're here to negotiate trade, not trade blows." And with that, she makes an obvious gesture of dropping her weapons to the ground, signaling an unwillingness to engage in combat.

Yrsa's words whisper to the party's thoughts, Careful. She's itching for a fight and may not listen.
OOC:
Which colored dot is Yrsa? She will Ready her action until someone charges her.
May 7, 2016 11:02 pm
OOC:
The lineup from left to right is: Kalimonsore, Magnus, Leilara, Yrsa. The slaves have 3 on the left and 1 on the right. What action are you preparing?
Yrsa has readied an action. Kalimonsore, Magnus, and Leilara still have their move!
May 7, 2016 11:35 pm
OOC:
If the slave on the right holds and doesn't advance, Yrsa will telepathically speak to him/her and whisper doubting thoughts of their choice to attack, combined with the urging to listen to us. However, if the slave decides to charge at me, I plan to cast Dissonant Whispers upon it and draw two handaxes. Target must make a Wisdom save or suffer 3d6 psychic damage and must use its reaction to move as far away from me as possible. A successful save only inflict half damage.
May 8, 2016 7:06 am
"Please, we'd rather not fight! We're really just here for business!"
OOC:
Leilara is preparing a Sleep spell for when any group attacks the party.
Last edited May 8, 2016 7:06 am
May 8, 2016 7:09 am
Magnus will let his companions do the talking but will prepare to attack anyone who approaches with hostile intent.
Last edited May 8, 2016 7:10 am

Rolls

Possible attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (19) + 5 = 24

1d8+5 : (3) + 5 = 8

Critical damage - (1d8)

(1) = 1

May 8, 2016 10:06 am
Kali has his hand by the hilt of his sword ready if any of the slavers attack
May 9, 2016 1:01 pm
OOC:
So the party's lineup is: Kalimonsore, Magnus, Leilara, and Yrsa. The alley is 10 ft wide, so it can fit two people standing side by side.
After the party readies their weapons, the slaves take the opportunity to attack. The leader raises his crossbow to take a shot at Magnus, and the two other slaves use their spears to attack Kalimonsore in unison.

Being a superior fighter, Magnus easily intercepts the two advancing enemies. He parries the first slave, and quickly sends the second slave flying into the alley wall with a standing kick. In a fluid motion, Magnus drives his sword deep into the chest of the slave that was knocked prone, and pulls out in time to deflect the oncoming bolt. The leader curses as his bolt harmlessly clatters on the ground. Slave #2 has perished

The first slave regains his footing and thrusts wildly at Kalimonsore, and his attack connects! ... Surprisingly.

The rear slaves charges at Yrsa, and she fires off her prepared spell. The rear slave grimaces as ethereal whispers flood her consciousness, but she manages to fight through the pain in order to lunge at Yrsa with her spear. Yrsa easily dodges the attack, however, as the slave isn't really a trained fighter that can stay focused while in pain.
OOC:
Leilara - You need to roll 5d8 to use your sleep spell on whoever is still alive that you wish to attack.
Kalimonsore - I need an attack roll on Slave 1, since he's the only enemy you can hit from your position. If you end up killing that slave with your attack, just ignore the damage he dealt to you since he would've been dead before it happened.
Yrsa - Your DC is 14, right? If not just tell me and I'll edit the post. Also, go ahead and roll the 3d6 damage.

Rolls

Leader's attack (Crossbow) - (1d20+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Rear Slave WIS save - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Slave 1 attack (2H Spear) - (1d20+3)

(12) + 3 = 15

Slave 1 attack damage (On Kalimonsore) - (1d8+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Rear slave attack (2H Spear) - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

May 9, 2016 1:20 pm
OOC:
I'm actually going to drop a level 2 Sleep for this one. Also, in case it matters, I'm going to make sure I don't hit any allies in this radius if at all possible.
Leilara stands up straight and gestures at the attacking group as her hair goes from the fiery red to an ephemeral gray. "Sorry about this!"

Rolls

Sleep (Level 2) - (7d8)

(8175756) = 39

May 9, 2016 1:31 pm
OOC:
With 39 hitpoints you can: Focus on only putting the leader to sleep, or put the two remaining slaves to sleep. Kalimonsore hasn't gotten his attack off yet, so he might still kill one of the slaves.
May 9, 2016 3:56 pm
OOC:
Spell save is 14, correct.

Rolls

Psychic Damage - (3d6)

(643) = 13

May 9, 2016 7:58 pm
handle says:
OOC:
With 39 hitpoints you can: Focus on only putting the leader to sleep, or put the two remaining slaves to sleep. Kalimonsore hasn't gotten his attack off yet, so he might still kill one of the slaves.
OOC:
Leilara would go for the biggest group, and she kinda wanted to leave the leader up so he can decide to surrender when he's sees us not trying to hurt anyone (hopefully).

I ALSO FORGOT MY WILD MAGIC ROLL!

Edit: Stupid auto-fill. That should just be 13, so we're safe for now. :)
Last edited May 9, 2016 7:58 pm

Rolls

Wild Magic! - (1d20+8)

(13) + 8 = 21

May 10, 2016 12:19 pm
Kali pulls his sword from the sheath attempting to defend himself, the dragonborn more of a speaker than a fighter
OOC:
Its really a self defence roll then a im gonna kill him attack, if he dies via kalis blade then yeah lol

Rolls

Attack roll - (1d20+2)

(20) + 2 = 22

Damage roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

May 11, 2016 12:12 pm
The slave in the rear take the psychic damage from Yrsa's spell, and her eyes roll into the back of her head. Her body starts to convulse, her jaw snaps shut like a steel trap, and her fists become bloody from clenching so hard. She's not dead yet, but she'll get there soon enough if she isn't helped.

Kalimonsore's less-than-optimal, defensive swing is still more than enough to take on the untrained slave. His blade makes a clean slice from the slave's neck to his hip, and bright red blood splatters over Kalimonsore.

The rear slave and slave #1 have perished!

With no other target, Leilara focuses her spell on the leader before he can take any more actions. He slumps down onto a pile of alley filth with a look of bitter defeat on his face.

Combat is over! It wasn't much of a fight, but each player gets 60 XP for routing the enemy.
OOC:
You can clean up or look around here if you want (that slave is still writhing on the ground), stay on course for that butcher shop, or anything else that suits your fancy.
May 11, 2016 12:24 pm
Kali looks down at the slaver cut in half, his breathing was hard and his heart beating hard against his chest as he stood there emotionless, his hands quivering as the blood soaked sword shakes, he quitely spoke to himself "I...im sorry.." he put his trembling free hand to his forehead clearly distraught
May 11, 2016 3:50 pm
Yrsa sprints to the slave gibbering on the ground, hoping to at least stabilize her. "Tried to warn you," she says through clenched teeth as she works. "You don't jump into the water when it's crashing against the rocks."

Rolls

Medicine - (1d20+1)

(12) + 1 = 13

May 12, 2016 3:41 pm
Leilara grimaces. "Well now what? I imagine the new lords of the land won't be too happy if we approach them with a body count, self defense or otherwise..."
May 12, 2016 10:37 pm
Yrsa manages to stabilize the slave that was struck with the spell. The slave's breathing returns to normal, but it looks like she's still a bit woozy.
OOC:
@Leilara - You figure that the leader of the slaves would be a bit more reasonable than the one that just attacked you. You could always ask the slaves you just defeated for their opinion as well.
May 12, 2016 11:54 pm
"Come on," says Yrsa as she lifts the ex-slave up onto her shoulder to assist in her walk. "Let's get these people to that butcher shop. Kali, quit feeling sorry for yourself and lead the way. Perhaps their leader will prove to be a bit more level-headed when it comes to negotiation."
May 28, 2016 6:24 pm
Leilara shrugs. "Well maybe they'll take kindly to the mostly-safe return of their friends." She looks around briefly. "I hope we have volunteers for carrying them because it's not really my strong suit."
May 28, 2016 6:29 pm
"I've got this one," says Yrsa. "Though, maybe you could carry their weapons? I don't feel comfortable with keeping their blades in reach, when they can stick it in my ribs once they come to."
May 28, 2016 9:09 pm
"Certainly!" Leilara packs the weapons away with some difficulty. "Oooof! Well... *pant* ... let's go!"
May 29, 2016 9:59 pm
Kali takes a deep breathe before turning back, he ignored Ysra comment and pointed forward "Its this way!" As he continued to lead the way
May 30, 2016 11:43 am
Leilara picks up four spears, a mace, and a heavy crossbow - quite heavy for someone her size. Yrsa shoulders the female slave that was knocked out. The leader of the group that attacked you is left in the dirt as Kali leads the way to the butcher's shop.

...

The butcher shop is a hub of activity, with slaves buzzing every which way with various materials. Some carry weapons, while others carry children to safety. Every so often a small group of armed slaves emerge from the building and sprint for another area of the city. You assume the leader of the revolt is somewhere inside, as it is the most heavily guarded.

One of the guards notices Yrsa carrying the knocked-out slave.

"Jeeze, what happened to her? There's a storeroom in the back we've been using as an infirmary. There should be some hay that you could put her down on."

The guard is noticeably more attractive than the others. He has clean teeth, well kept hair, and a generally more charismatic voice. You reckon that he must have been one of the slaves meant to be sold to nobility.

When questioned about where to find the leader of the revolt, he scrutinizes the party but eventually nods his head towards the butcher shop.

"Adventurers gallivanting across the desert, huh? You'll be a big help, but we don't have much gold to give. Tarl is inside, maybe you can work out a deal with him. Don't worry, the guards will let you through."
May 30, 2016 5:31 pm
Kali looked to the group unsure on how to proceed, the ex-slaves have already attempted to kill them already and the man that stood before them was questionable, he was questioning if they should side with the ex-slaves or not
May 30, 2016 5:50 pm
Yrsa hands off her burden to the infirmary, telling them that she's... seen and heard things. The ex-pirate then returns to the group.

"All right," she says to the group. "Let's pay a visit to Tarl." She leads the way to the butcher shop.
Last edited May 30, 2016 5:51 pm
May 30, 2016 7:11 pm
Leilara follows behind, contorting comically under the weight of the weapons.
May 31, 2016 1:30 pm
Magnus follows the others, At least these ones aren't so keen on fighting with us.
Jun 1, 2016 4:15 pm
Yrsa slows a bit for Leilara to catch up. "Let me have some of those," she says, indicating the burden of weapons. "Maybe we'll use these as a demonstration of what we can provide."
Jun 1, 2016 4:33 pm
"Oh thank goodness!" Leilara wipes some sweat from her brow as she gleefully hands over some of the heavy weaponry. "And I certainly can show a better demonstration when I'm far less burdened!"
Jun 2, 2016 12:23 pm
Because you were sent by the other guard, the two at the front let you in with no hassle. Although, they do exchange a look when they see the amount of weapons Yrsa and Leilara are carrying. They direct you to Tarl, but remain at their posts.

The inside of the building is warm with body heat, and there is a general air of urgency. The former slaves all seem to be doing their part in the revolt, even the children helping move supplies. A large half-orc is in the center of what used to a meat packaging counter, listening to the report of a slender looking slave. It's safe to assume this is Tarl, and you catch the end of the conversation as you approach him.

"-- digging tunnels, but I don't know how long it'll take."

The conversation abruptly halts as you approach, both of the former slaves eyeing you warily.

"This is unexpected, who sent you? Why have you come to me?"

Tarl looks like a well-built half-orc who has seen more than his fair share of hard labor. He has many scars on his hands and back, and his left wrist is still bound by a manacle. Most of the other slaves removed theirs, but maybe Tarl has been so busy leading the revolt he hasn't found the time to remove his own yet.
Jun 2, 2016 7:17 pm
Leilara nudges Kali forward. We didn't expect to be talking to this one, but it's diplomacy is diplomacy in the end.
Jun 2, 2016 9:25 pm
Kali looks back and down before walking forwards, he clears his throat "We are here by request of Lady Tsira, we heard of the uprising and are here to offer support, support which is in this letter" Kali pulls the envelope from the satchel and places it infront of the man
Jun 6, 2016 9:05 am
Tarl takes the letter, opens it, and scans its contents. He quickly drops the letter onto the table.

"I can't read. If you want to support us, bring me Bhjurba's. Preferably alive. That fat dwarf is still hiding in his tower, and he still holds about fifty brothers and sisters in his dungeons, including my older sister. If you do this for us, we will owe Tsira a very large favor."
Jun 6, 2016 7:17 pm
Yrsa looks around the room, panning her eye(s) over the slaves in proximity. She finishes her gaze on Tarl and studies the man.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Jun 6, 2016 11:52 pm
"What happens to Bhjurba if we get him? I'm guessing not a trial of any kind."
Jun 9, 2016 10:51 am
The slaves in the room move with a sense of urgency and panic, but you can tell that they are excited for the future. The slave that was giving a report to Tarl seems weary from battle, but very determined. Yrsa can tell that Tarl is being earnest, and that he probably cares about saving as many former slaves as he can.

"I would kill him outright, but if he fears for his life me might order his mercenaries to do something drastic. I was a child during the last revolt. Bhjurba was cornered in his tower, like he is now, but he also held all of the slave children in his dungeons. He began to throw us off the tower one by one, in order to end the revolt. The siege was lifted at the same time his mercenaries arrived from outside the city. Let the gods decide what happens to his soul once we end him."
Jun 9, 2016 8:14 pm
Yrsa remains quiet, allowing Kalimonsore and Leilara to speak for the group.
Jun 9, 2016 9:22 pm
Leilara grimaces. "Sounds like a lovely individual."

She turns and whispers to the group. "I'd be more than happy to take them up on their request. Sounds like they're in control of the resources now anyways."
Jun 10, 2016 9:05 am
OOC:
Waitin on you guys to talk it out/agree on something
Jun 10, 2016 1:30 pm
Magnus nods in agreement, "Sounds fine to me. We need this contract, and I think we've found our way."
Jun 10, 2016 4:26 pm
Yrsa seems to be in accord with Magnus and Leilara. She steps forward and deposits the weapons confiscated from the other slaves upon the table, hilt-first in a gesture of charity. She motions for Leilara to do the same.

"We had journeyed far to meet with you," she coos as she places the weapons down. "And these were taken from some of your brothers and sisters who were... less than hospitable. I'm willing to let the offense slide, if perhaps you had some form of compensation? I speak of water, to replenish our supply."
Jun 11, 2016 12:27 pm
OOC:
Roll persuasion Yrsa, pls ty. Anyone else can roll to help, if they wish.
Tarl handles the spears and ponders the deal.

"..."
Jun 11, 2016 5:13 pm
OOC:
Adding Persuasion roll

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Jun 11, 2016 10:48 pm
After a short time of though, Tarl agrees to refill the party's water supply - enough to last for the trip back to the keep.

"Alright, deal. We'll give you water for your troubles. The immediate release of my people is a more important matter at the moment."

He turns to yell a command in orcish, and a little bit later jugs of water are brought out for the party to use.

"What's your plan, then? I can bring you to the tower entry, but it's not a good place to be at the moment. Lots of oil and arrows flying everywhere."
Jun 11, 2016 10:53 pm
"I mean, we don't have a plan just yet, but any information you have about the city and the tower itself would be helpful! Don't worry: I'm sure that we have the skills to get this done."
Jun 11, 2016 11:06 pm
"I know they've got a lot of armed guards on the inside. You look strong, but fighting them all is suicide. Making your way through the deserted homes and buildings is the best way to make it to the tower without being caught. Know Bhjurba, he probably still has loyal slaves working inside the tower. Yes, there are some well treated slaves who act as spies."
OOC:
I'll answer any specific questions, not sure what you want to know if you just ask for general info though. :P
Jun 12, 2016 5:22 pm
"We'll need a moment to rest," Yrsa says to Tarl, as well as for the benefit of the party. "And have you been inside the tower, or know someone who has? I'm thinking this tower has to have a side entrance somewhere."
Jun 12, 2016 5:32 pm
"Or even passages below the tower? Old sewer systems or dungeons?"
Jun 12, 2016 6:13 pm
"The roofs of the building seemed like the best option but we don't know if they have archers and just to be clear he said this happened before and men came, those guys out there on the street are just guards, there may be more men coming"
Jun 13, 2016 2:57 am
Tarl gives what info he knows.

"There's only one gate to the compound that I know of, but once you get inside there are may paths to take to get to the tower. The city inside the walls is much different than these slave pens."
Jun 14, 2016 7:18 pm
"So there is a wall of sorts that separate this area from the tower and surrounding buildings?" Yrsa asks of Tarl. "How far from this wall to the tower itself? What sort of buildings?"

Yrsa looks over at Kalimonsore, wordlessly speaking her mind to the dragonborn (and repeating the message for the benefit of the party), This may be your opportunity to animal shift, Kalimonsore. Perhaps a scouting expedition as a rat within the tower will find us an easy means of sneaking in? Assuming we have a means of getting to the tower itself.
Jun 14, 2016 10:44 pm
Tarl scratches his skin in thought, but it's the freed slave next to him that has an answer.

"The tower itself has a few low windows that would be easy to get into, although I have no idea what rooms they lead to."
OOC:
Anyone with more than a passive 12 INT or 12 WIS will also figure that pretending to be mercs is a good way to get an audience with Bhjurba. He's probably willing to take help from anyone at this point, even random adventurers. (A passive score is 10 + the ability modifier.)
Jun 14, 2016 10:49 pm
"Maybe we could go there and offer aid to them," Magnus offers, "They're probably desperate enough to allow us entry that way. We even have a few slave bodies we could offer as proof of our intent."
Jun 14, 2016 11:14 pm
Yrsa nods, impressed with the warrior's plan.
Jun 15, 2016 7:57 am
OOC:
Whooooa, Magnus has some amazing stats!
Jun 15, 2016 2:30 pm
handle says:
OOC:
Whooooa, Magnus has some amazing stats!
OOC:
He really does!
Jun 19, 2016 2:32 am
OOC:
Any other questions for Tarl, or are you guys gonna move on?
Jun 19, 2016 2:36 am
"Alright well Mr. Tarl, I think we can help you out. We can consider this the beginning of a profitable working agreement between your free people and the Lady Omon."
Jun 19, 2016 2:43 am
Tarl nods.

"One of my men can point you in the right direction. Probably not best for him to lead you all the way there if you are planning on pretending to be hired soldiers."
Jun 21, 2016 12:23 am
Yrsa reapplies her head-wrap and gives Tarl another once-over with her exposed eye, before turning to leave the building.
Jun 21, 2016 2:18 am
Leilara follows Yrsa out. As soon as they get outside, she immediately starts looking around for streets and alleyways that might lead toward the tower.
Jun 24, 2016 8:37 am
Due to the fact that the tower is... well, a tower, it is easy to spot. You can head in that general direction via the streets, back alley ways, or even on the roofs of the shanty buildings (if you want to be a parkour master).

You also notice that the guard you spoke to earlier is gone, only the smell of his flowery perfume remains.
Jun 24, 2016 2:11 pm
"Hold on a second..."

Perfume? That seems strange...

Did I notice any of the other former slaves with perfume?
Jun 24, 2016 3:12 pm
OOC:
Am I able to procure any of the dead bodies as a proof that we're not with the slaves?
Magnus stands and waits patiently as Leilara thinks about things.
Jun 24, 2016 5:05 pm
Yrsa waits where she is. It seems pretty apparent that she has not connected anything regarding a guard and perfume.
Jun 25, 2016 12:02 am
Leialra spends a moment smelling the other slaves. It's a bit awkward, but she discovers that no other slaves are wearing perfume.
OOC:
Yep, you could make a small detour to the alley where you guys killed the last few.
Jun 25, 2016 12:04 am
Leilara shrugs, looking a bit lost.

"Well, I guess that was a dead end. Speaking of which, do the alleys sound good to all of you? I think avoiding wide thoroughfares would be a good idea."
Jun 25, 2016 12:08 am
Yrsa nods. "Let's get a move on, then," she says.
Jun 25, 2016 2:07 am
Leilara starts trotting down the alleys toward the tower, taking some care to make sure they don't get pelted with arrows along the way.
Jun 25, 2016 5:18 pm
Magnus grabs a couple of dead bodies and throws them over his shoulder. Some 'gifts' should get us on good terms with them.
Jun 28, 2016 3:29 pm
As we trek through the alleyways, over what seem likely to be both rubble and bodies, Leilara attempts to keep her wandering eyes searching for danger or other important details.
OOC:
MY EYES SEE ALL.
Last edited June 28, 2016 3:29 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+1)

(20) + 1 = 21

Jun 28, 2016 3:51 pm
"C'mon, Kali," urges Yrsa, pushing the dragonborn along. She takes up the same position as before in the marching order, bringing up the rear.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Jun 30, 2016 11:53 am
The party weaves between the shacks and cages, making their way to the tower gate. Magnus is able to carry two of the slain slaves, what blood remained is not splattered on his armor.

With the tower gate in sight, though still a fair bit away, Leilara notices a group of well armed guards patrolling the area outside the enclosure. She also notices a few rugged looking slaves hiding in the streets, using burnt bodies and mud as camouflage.

As the sun starts to set, and the air quickly turns silent and cold as the guards make their way down the street. Not wanting to get involved in an unnecessary fight, Leilara motions for the party to take cover under a partially destroyed hut. The hut is littered with cages of all sizes, what kind of slaves were sold here?

Magnus sets the two bodies down silently, and suddenly there is another voice inside the hut.

"YOU, YOU! WATCH YOUR FEET!"

The accent is strange, but there isn't much time to ponder on that fact. The voice cut through the air sharply, and both the guards and the slaves turn towards the hut.
Jun 30, 2016 1:46 pm
Even knowing the damage is already done, Leilara cannot help but whisper as she looks, slightly panicked, toward the ground of the hut.

"Who said that?!"
Jun 30, 2016 1:59 pm
Magnus' hand immediately darts to his sword's hilt as he peers into the darkness to see who said that.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Jun 30, 2016 4:06 pm
Yrsa immediately looks for higher ground, whether it be a table, chair, or cage, to climb upon. Once reasonably secure of her elevation, she whips her head around for the source of the voice.
OOC:
Yrsa has Devil's Sight and can see normally in darkness up to 120 feet.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Jul 7, 2016 10:59 am
OOC:
Hope everyone had a good holiday weekend!
Yrsa and Magnus notice a sturdy looking cage that had been knocked onto the ground. A strange bird-like creature is trapped in the cage. His feathered tail snakes out of the cage, and is pinned to the ground by Magnus's boot.

SQUAWK "OFF TAIL, PLEASE!" The beast hisses, semi-quietly.
OOC:
Anyone with 12+ Nature roll will know what kind of creature it is, and maybe some neato facts.
Outside, Bhjurba's guards are on high alert. Three of the guards are ensuring that the dead bodies are 100% dead, and the other three are scoping out the nearby stalls for the source of the noise. They are about two stalls down from where the party is currently hiding.

Due to Leilara's amazing perception, just notices a silent conversation between the three hidden slaves. One is frothing at the mouth, so to speak, and the chance to kill more guards, but the other two wish to remain hidden.
Jul 7, 2016 4:39 pm
If we're going to pretend to be mercenaries looking to work for Bhjurba, now's our chance to introduce ourselves. We may just save these other slaves from discovery, too, whispers Yrsa silently into the minds of the party. For now, she ignores the talkative bird-like creature as she prepares to step out into the guards' view.
OOC:
If she can see the other slaves...
Yrsa stares at the hiding slaves with her good eye, and her thoughts snake through their minds, Keep hidden. Tarl has sent us on a mission. She hopes the mention of the rebellion leader will be enough to make them understand.

Rolls

Nature for talking bird beast - (1d20-1)

(2) - 1 = 1

Jul 7, 2016 5:03 pm
Leilara nods toward Yrsa as she composes herself and attempts to look more "mercenary-like". In the moments before the soldiers arrive, she stares at the strange squawking creature. She walks over to readjust its cage so no one else steps on it, putting her finger to her lips in a SHHH! motion in front of the critter.

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+1)

(9) + 1 = 10

Jul 11, 2016 5:06 pm
Yrsa steps out to intercept the three guards before they arrive at the hiding spots. Her hands are empty and visible. "Well met," she says. "You all seem better-dressed than the other riff-raff. You must be with Bhjurba?"
Jul 14, 2016 12:52 pm
OOC:
Yrsa does not know about the hidden slaves, Leilara would have to tell her.
Neither Leilara nor Yrsa know what kind of animal it is, but it seems to pay attention when Leilara tells it to be silent. It continues to talk, but at a much quieter tone of voice.

Squawk. "Let me out. Need to leave. Away from the ground!"

The guards look at Yrsa with suspicion, and then slight disgust as they get a good look at her (bad reputation). The guard in the middle keeps his sword drawn and one hand on a dagger as he speaks to Yrsa.

"A pirate, eh? What's a sea lovin lass like you doin so far inland?"
Jul 14, 2016 3:54 pm
OOC:
Sorry, figured Leilara implicitly pointed the hiding slaves out.
"Seas getting crowded," Yrsa replies casually, keeping her hands open. "Thought I'd try my luck on land, and heard about a booming trade here in Bhjurba's Den. Wanted to see if some coin could be made here for me and my mates."

She casts a glance over at the other guards, who were checking the dead bodies. "Business seems... brisk?"
Jul 14, 2016 7:27 pm
Leilara tries to look hardcore and intimidating, but mainly just stands between Squawky-bird-thing and the newcomers.
Jul 16, 2016 12:48 am
"Just a spot of trouble."

The guard looks the party over up and down.

"You look a little well-armed to be traders..."
Jul 16, 2016 12:53 am
"You're an observant one," says Yrsa. "When we got here, it was pretty apparent you had some trouble going on. In fact, we had to defend ourselves against a bunch of folk not too far from here." She gestures with one hand to Magnus, indicating the bodies.

Yrsa continues, "Not quite the reception we would have hoped. So I figure, maybe Bhjurba would be more welcoming for a few mercenaries looking to provide services."
Jul 16, 2016 2:28 am
OOC:
Roll persuasion, add +5 for the dead slaves!
Jul 16, 2016 4:08 pm
Yrsa gives a slight smile, maintaining a friendly appearance as she watches the guards.

Rolls

Persuasion +5 - (1d20+9)

(9) + 9 = 18

Jul 16, 2016 4:14 pm
Magnus grunts and drops the dead slaves at the feet of the men, acting like nothing but a simple bodyguard.
Jul 19, 2016 11:57 am
The guard is completely impressed with the party, and he readily accepts Yrsa's offer.

"Dang, you really gave it to those bastards! Pirate or not, you're good in my book! Once we finish our patrol, I'll meet up with you guys at the main gate of the tower. It shouldn't take too long out here, just gotta make sure these dead slaves don't pop back to live somehow."

The guards resume checking the dead, not aware of the hidden slaves yet.
OOC:
You guys can stick around, or head to the tower to wait for the guards.
Jul 19, 2016 3:40 pm
Yrsa jerks a thumb over at Leilara as she speaks to the guard. "Little one's already checked back there. She's got a nose for live bodies like you wouldn't believe. You can see it in her eyes, all inspection-like." The pirate gives a shrug. "It's why we keep her around; pretty useful, and she's funny as hell."

She half-glances over in the direction of the main gate. "Anyway, maybe you guys ought to take us to the tower. It probably wouldn't look good if we just stroll on up like we never came across you. Someone might think you missed us and I'd hate for you to get punished just for doing your jobs."
Jul 19, 2016 10:47 pm
Leilara's eyes pop in what she attempts to convey as an "inspection-like" manner. Her nostrils flare.
Last edited July 19, 2016 10:47 pm
Jul 19, 2016 11:53 pm
The guard thinks for a moment, then nods his head in agreement.

"Yeah, that's probably for the best, especially since it's getting dark."

The guard stabs one last body, and then signals the group to move back to the tower. Once the party starts to leave, you hear a shriek from the hut.

SQUAWK! "Hey! Hey! Don't leave me! I help!"
Jul 20, 2016 3:55 am
Leilara slaps her forehead. "Oh damn, I must have forgotten my familiar in there. He was looking through the wreckage back there. Let me go fetch him!" She says this probably a bit too loudly, so that some noisy bird-like creatures might hear.
Jul 20, 2016 11:34 am
"Make it quick, little lady. Best not Keep Bhjurba waitin'."

As Leilara approaches, the bird creature looks up at her quizzically.

SQUAWK. "I will help! I know lots! You ask, get answer. Unlock first."
Jul 20, 2016 4:16 pm
Yrsa gestures down the street towards the tower, indicating her willingness to follow the guards. "She'll catch up," she says, referring to Leilara.
Jul 26, 2016 11:54 am
"Eeh, I'm not sure leaving her alone out here is the best idea. I'll stick with her just in case, Gonzo here will take the rest of your party to the tower. If he doesn't leave you in the dust anyway, sometimes he forgets how long his bloody legs are."

The tallest guard steps forward, and offers a muffled greeting though his helmet.

"Mmpfo! Mhmf fway."

He points down the road towards the tower, and the party follows his lead once he takes off in that direction.

...

After a 10 minute walk, the main party arrives at the tower wall. The walls must have been originally constructed with gleaming white stone, but they have turned grayish-yellow over time. There are lights within the tower, but not in any of the surrounding buildings.

Gonzo signals the gatekeepers, and party enters without any problems. Once inside, the other guards head towards other sections of the wall, you figure they are headed to relieve the crew currently manning the walls. The town behind the walls is cleaner, but still shows signs of the revolt. Looking closely you can see some bloodstains on the ground, and some structual damage to some of the buildings. There is a sparsely lit pathway to the tower, which Gonzo is pointing at excitedly.

"Mphfurba!

He takes off again, probably expecting the party to keep up with him.
OOC:
The guard with Leilara will enter her scene after she deals with that bird-thing.
Jul 26, 2016 1:36 pm
"Oh... uh... right... unlock.... sure. That's definitely what is about to happen."

Leilara looks at the bars of the cage that the creature is trapped in and looks backwards as she hears Bhjurba's lieutenant approaches.

"Well, you're going to have to trust me!"

She makes some weird and precise wiggles with her fingers as her hair changes color again... and magic missiles launch at three consecutive cage bars.

"Here goes nothing!"
OOC:
Hoping that some Magic Missiles will open the cage bars. There goes another level 1 spell slot, but I'm pretty sure I still have some.

EDIT: OH NO

Edit 2: Oh wait, it's on a 1, not a 20. PHEW.
Last edited July 26, 2016 1:38 pm

Rolls

Wild Magic Surge - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Wild Magic Surge Effect - (1d100)

(12) = 12

Jul 26, 2016 4:23 pm
Yrsa thought about trying to keep the guards together, but they moved too fast for her to react properly. Now stuck with splitting the group, she can only hope that Leilara manages to con the guard enough to catch up. At least Kalimonsore managed to hide himself; Yrsa hopes the dragonborn is making himself useful on his own.

As they enter through the gates, Yrsa gives the area a once-over. "Hang on," she says to the one known as Gonzo. "I've got something in my boots." Truthfully, she is stalling to give Leilara more time.
OOC:
RPed that Kalimonsore went off on a scouting or solo mission, since the player has gone inactive. Is that okay?
Jul 27, 2016 8:32 am
OOC:
Yeah, I'm fine with just poofing him away until SirRockNRolla comes back (if he does). We can say he elected to stay with Tarl to help out, since he seems to dislike violence.
Hearing Yrsa's statement, Gonzo stops to wait.

"Mmm, mmphi mppnda mmmfin mmahoot!

You can't decipher exactly what he is saying, but you think it's a story about how he once found a scorpion in his boot. His posture has clearly become more relaxed inside of the tower walls.

...

Leilara's magic missiles easily break open the cage. The bird makes some sort of noise in protest but is ultimately unharmed. Once free, the large bird stretches its wings and hops up on a high shelf inside the hut. The bird looks to be about three and a half feet tall, with an impressive eight foot wingspan. It's reptilian tail wraps around it's body, much like a cat's.

It's surprisingly large! How did manage to fit inside that cage?

"Thank you! Thank you! Do you want wish?" SQUAWK

It cocks its head from side to side while it speaks to Leilara.

http://img13.deviantart.net/8c6f/i/2014/220/c/6/bearded_vulture_by_kipine-d7u8mjs.png

Rolls

Gonzo's perception - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Gonzo's perception (Disadvantage) - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Jul 27, 2016 2:16 pm
"A what? A wish? Well... yes, of course, I..." Leilara trails off as her head swivels to hear the guard's approach.

"Listen, now's not the time. We have to get out of here! Just... come with me and things should be safe. And uh... could you get a bit smaller again?"
Jul 27, 2016 4:45 pm
Yrsa makes a show of removing her boot, tipping it over to let whatever's inside fall out. When nothing substantial appears, she reaches inside to fish around.

"What did you do?" she asks of the guard, keeping the conversation going.
Jul 27, 2016 4:48 pm
Magnus stands off to the side, trying to stand as much in the shade as possible (it's hot in the desert sun with all this armor!)
Jul 28, 2016 11:49 am
The bird chortles at Leilara in a bird-like manner, and it swings itself acrobatically through the air.

"A joke! No magic!" SQUAWK "Cage was small, I was big!"

Shortly after the 'joke', a bushy beard pokes inside the hut.

"We better get moving little la- Whoa! What is that? You magicians create the strangest creatures, you'll probably love to meet Caulder..."

The guard steps inside and looks around, guess he's never been inside this particular stall before. However, the sounds of footsteps outside the hut silences any more conversation - even that squawking bird shut up. Some of the 'dead' bodies on the ground are no longer there, Leilara knows that the hidden slaves have relocated...somewhere.

...

Back by the tower, Yrsa continues her conversation with Gonzo.

"Mmm, mmfred mhe maymights mout mmof me! Mran mout mmf mhe mmarraks mif mo mants! Mfafafa!"

He notices Yrsa struggling with her boot, and offers a hand to help out.

Magnus slinks into the shadows, which isn't hard to do as the sun sets behind the tower walls.
OOC:
Consider yourself out of sight, Magnus!
Jul 28, 2016 4:55 pm
Yrsa waves away any assistance; she's got this. "Waved your own stinger around in the cold breeze, eh? Better to be half-naked than with a swollen foot, though!" she laughs, playing into the conversation like she's done many times before.
Aug 13, 2016 5:40 pm
Yrsa empties her boot, then dons and secures it once more. She stands and looks towards the gate leading out to the city. "What's taking them so long?"
Aug 14, 2016 2:36 am
As Yrsa's sentence ends, Leilara comes around the corner.

"Sorry! Sorry... I just was... uhhh..." Leilara hesitates as she looks back at the bird. "Just gathering up my familiar! Like... like always! Isn't that right, buddy?"
Last edited August 14, 2016 2:37 am
Aug 15, 2016 4:09 pm
Yrsa stares at the bird-creature with her good eye, though perhaps something behind the eyepatch is also getting involved. We'll talk later, she thinks, mentally touching the bird's mind. For now, stick with the halfling.

Yrsa turns and proceeds to follow Gonzo the guard.
Aug 16, 2016 2:56 pm
Leilara sticks to Yrsa's heels, occasionally looking nervously at her new companion.
Aug 16, 2016 3:16 pm
Magnus sighs silently in relief as Leilara comes around the corner safely, and follows behind their guide.
Aug 23, 2016 12:38 pm
"Alright Gonzo, take em to see Bhjurba. I gotta make sure the guys on the wall are set for the night."

The red haired guard leaves the party, and heads towards the walls. With her boot still off, Gonzo waits patiently for her to put it back on. With night approaching, an eerie silence falls upon the settlement. It should be safe within the tower walls, but for some reason your instincts are still on high alert. The air feels unnatural, maybe if you concentrate you could--

SQUAWK! "Smells of blood."

The bird swoops down, perches itself on the door of the nearest building, and sharpens his beak on the red cross that is mounted on the frame. His head perks up once Yrsa makes mental contact.

"Kilo no stay. Kilo not get eaten like the others."

This bird seems to have some strong opinions about the area.

"Mmmfid mmrd. Mfets mo mmfemr mmr mfeady, mfirate."
Aug 23, 2016 1:01 pm
"Uhh... that's right... Familiar. Stay on patrol! And don't get caught in a cage like last time! We'll be out soon."
Aug 23, 2016 3:19 pm
Yrsa puts her boot back on, stands and dusts her hands. She nods her thanks to Gonzo and is ready to follow.
Aug 29, 2016 9:22 am
You hear the bird as you follow Gonzo towards the tower doors "Don't get eaten!" and a final SQUAWK as the doors close behind you.

...

The party earns 150XP for making to the Tower!

The walls inside the tower are made from rough stone, but the floors are nice a smooth. It's fairly well decorated, but still has a certain air of brutality to it. Gonzo leads the part up a spiraling staircase, you can't help but remember they story Tarl told about children being thrown from the top of this tower. There's also that dungeon below, where Tarl's sister is being held.

"Mmfurba mmikes mmf mfop. Mmf mfink mt's mmfemfuse mfe's a mfort mmfwarf, mmfike mfoo!"

Gonzo chortles at his own joke, and also giggles a little while pointing at Leilara.

On the way up, Leilara's nose catches a familiar scent. Smells like flowers from behind a closed door. Wouldn't be too hard to give Gonzo the slip for a minute or two, if that's the course of action you want to take.
OOC:
I assumed you guys were in this order: Gonzo - Yrsa - Leilara - Magnus.
Aug 29, 2016 11:09 am
OOC:
Marching order sounds about right to me!
Leilara looks around a bit to see if anyone but Gonzo might notice she'd be gone. Assuming that any guards would be more than visible, she attempts to give them a momentary slip. She thinks I'll be right back! at Yrsa, not understanding exactly how that ability works.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6)

(12) + 6 = 18

Aug 29, 2016 4:12 pm
"I'm sure he likes to compensate," Yrsa comments, jovially. Ah yes, the smack-talk inherent in all lower ranks about those above. She's done her fair share and heard just as much. "Does he have the tallest chair at the dinner table, too?"
Last edited August 29, 2016 4:12 pm
Aug 30, 2016 10:31 pm
Leilara slips away unnoticed. The door was unlocked, probably because no one expected a thief to break into the tower. The inside of the room dark, but Leilara can make out the outlines of a writing desk, large wardrobe, and a cage large enough to hold a person. There's another door that leads to another room, but the perfume smell is definitely coming from this room. Every so often you catch a whiff of death, probably from the open window.

...

Gonzo laughs and nods in reaction to Yrsa, and leads the party up to the final floor.
OOC:
We can wait for Leilara and/or Magnus to catch up before heading in, if you want.
Aug 30, 2016 10:34 pm
Magnus follows silently, keeping an eye out for anything interesting.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Aug 31, 2016 3:13 am
Magnus finds a note on the desk, it looks unfinished and the inkwell has been knocked onto the floor. It reads:

Herald,
That girl you sold me was too strong minded, what backwards hole did you find her in? She refused to do a single task, so I sent her to the surgeon a couple days. A few weeks of rehabilitation should sort her out. I've talked to Bossa, and replaced her with another pretty one. He's a weird one, always fiddling with his scarf. At least this one does what it is told...

Talk to Bossa if you want that girl back, we'll probably end up selling her to the---


And the rest is covered with spilled ink.

On closer inspection, the cage has a detailed, ornate design. It's sort of weird to see something so barbaric as a human cage be so finely crafted. These slave traders have a strange taste in decor.
Aug 31, 2016 11:14 am
As quietly as she can, Leilara looks around the room, studying the writing desk, peering into the wardrobe, and checking the contents of the cage (which she hopes is empty...)

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Aug 31, 2016 11:41 am
Leilara also notices the letter on the desk, but nothing else of note.

The wardrobe door is stuck, it'll take a serious effort to yank to open. Also, she discovers that it smells absolutely horrid. The perfume doesn't do much to mask the scent up close.

The cage is also closed shut, but she can see a bundle of cloth on the ground. However, her arms are too short to reach from the outside.
OOC:
Magnus sees all this stuff as well, naturally.
Aug 31, 2016 12:03 pm
"Magnus? A little help for the small folk?" she grins.
Aug 31, 2016 3:23 pm
Magnus walks over to the wardrobe, "Stand back, don't know what's in here." He says, then tries to yank the door open.

Rolls

Strength Check - (1d20+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Aug 31, 2016 4:17 pm
Yrsa will try to keep Gonzo occupied and distracted until Leilara and Magnus catch up.
Sep 2, 2016 11:21 am
Magnus gives a good tug, and the wardrobe door pops open. A decomposing corpse ungracefully slumps onto the floor, barely missing Magnus. The slight smell of death now fully encompasses the room, gross!

The body looks like someone who was wealthy, probably a slave trader. From the way his head is tilted at an impossible angle, it clear that someone had snapped his neck.
Sep 7, 2016 4:04 pm
Yrsa inwardly starts to wonder how many stairs are on this tower.
Sep 7, 2016 4:06 pm
Magnus takes the letter they found and stuffs it in a pocket, then grabs Leilara and guides her back to join the group before they get caught.
Sep 8, 2016 3:25 am
"But I wanted to inspect the gross body!... oh, okay FINE," sulks Leilara as Magnus drags her back into line.
Oct 2, 2016 5:18 am
After a long series of stairs and complicated locks, Gonzo leads the party to the Bhjurba’s room at the top. Magnus and Leilara manage to sprint and make it back to the party before Gonzo notices anyone missing. Leilara is a bit out of breath, but Magnus seems fine. Gonzo says a few words to the servant who opened the final door, then steps to the side to let the party though. He gives the party a wink and a chuckle before heading back downstairs to, presumably, the guard barracks to get some sleep. The servant bows deeply and announces the party before you enter.

"My lord, the party of mercenaries that fought through hordes of rebel slaves to assist us have arrrived."

The room looks as you expect for the leader of a slave trading guild. Tall windows give a good view of the surrounding lands, the stone walls emphasize power and safety, and there's even a room with plenty of pillows for guests to entertain themselves with the salve's "services".

A dwarf looking out the window in the direction of the main gate turns around to face the group. His hands remand folded behind his back as he speaks, but you sense that there is a lake of boiling rage behind his expression.

http://orig05.deviantart.net/ae73/f/2009/130/7/1/dwarf_lord_avatar_by_serg_natos.jpg

"Well met. As you can see, managing a business in this wasteland carries some risks. You want to earn some coin? Then work for me. I'll have plenty for you once we end this."
OOC:
Make an entrance/respond however you wish, I just wanted to get the starting dialog out of the way.
Oct 4, 2016 1:15 pm
"Lord Bhjurba, we come to bring a business partnership offering from Lady Tsira Omon, a new occupant in these parts. Lady Tsira's past business dealings suggest this could be a very profitable venture between us..."

Leilara looks quickly at her companions to see if they have any thoughts about how to deal with this... but then an idea springs to mind.

"However, this uprising suggests possible instability in any dealings we might have. Tell us: how did this insurrection come about and how are you planning to return to control?"
OOC:
Frankly I'm still trying to remember everything we want to do here, but more information might help either way? We're eventually just looking to capture this guy and lead him to the camp of the free people, right?
Last edited October 4, 2016 1:15 pm
Oct 5, 2016 12:29 am
Yrsa remains a bit behind Leilara, letting the halfling speak.
OOC:
Yep, pretty much.
Oct 9, 2016 4:11 am
OOC:
Yeah, the slaves wanted to bring him down while saving their people from his tower. Tarl wanted him alive, but you're free to deal with the situation however you wish. Also, I forget who had the contract that Tsira made... did Yrsa have it?
Bhjurba responds and motions towards a map that has been laid out on a large table. He makes a hand gesture and a servant starts filling glasses with wine.

"It depends on who's will breaks first. I've got food and safety behind my walls, those rebels have nothing. As soon as bandits and monsters start moving in looking for scraps, they'll be begging for my leadership again."

He offers the drinks to the party, while taking a long gulp out of one himself.

"I'll kill the ring leaders, and their kids, and their families. It'll send a message to the rest. You have a business offer from your Lady? What do you have to offer?"

The party earns 150 XP for meeting Bhjurba!
OOC:
So you can roll persuasion, intimidate, or whatever else makes sense. Using the contract will give you advantage to any roll as well.
Oct 9, 2016 10:47 am
OOC:
Kalimonsore had the contract, and he gave it to Tarl. Since Tarl mentioned that he couldn't read, can we play that one of us took it back?
From where she stands, Yrsa studies the mannerisms and speech of this slave lord to assess the type of dwarf he is. Her good eye twinkles in the reflected light, especially with the presence of alcohol.

"Certainly a wise plan,"
she observes, words laced with subtle arcane power. Yrsa bows in deference to Bhjurba's power and gestures in acknowledgement of his decision. "You have enough stores to outlast them?"
OOC:
Casting Hex against Bhjurba and applying it to his Wisdom checks for disadvantage. Insight check is to see how confident he is in waiting out the siege, as well as any indication of his personality and such.
Last edited October 9, 2016 10:48 am

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(7) + 1 = 8

Oct 10, 2016 12:28 pm
He seems pretty confident, and doesn't seem to be the type to joke around. However, you can the revolt has taken a toll on him, there's something he's hiding.

"We should have enough food. If this goes on for an extended time and worst comes to worst, well... we will start with the rats. Before I tell you anymore, I need to know what kind of deal you want. Keep in mind, it might take a week or two to get this place fully operational again."

He crosses his arms and taps his finger while he waits for a response. Yep, he's definitely worried about something.
Oct 10, 2016 3:57 pm
Yrsa, using her one-way telepathy, sends her insights to the rest of the team. Particularly since Leilara's the one who has been speaking with Bhjurba.
Oct 10, 2016 9:20 pm
OOC:
@handle, let me know if you'd prefer this in an OOC thread or something.

1) Have we broken the seal on the contract? If not, we'll just have to give it to him to show him the terms.

2) For the party, here's the best plan I can think of. This guy is not going to want to leave BUT I looked back and saw that we have a tin of hallucinogenic tobacco from Tsira. Between that, Sleep, Phantasmal Force, and the contract (to butter him up), I bet we can addle him enough to kidnap him. Thoughts?
Last edited October 10, 2016 9:20 pm
Oct 10, 2016 11:07 pm
OOC:
I think the seal was broken.

#2) Sounds like a fine plan to me. I can also cast Charm Person which (if he fails his WIS save at disadvantage) gives us an hour.

EDIT: No, I can't. Used up my spell slots for today, sorry!
Last edited October 10, 2016 11:54 pm
Oct 11, 2016 1:21 am
OOC:
This thread is fine for OOC, I think it makes it feel more like a game in real life. :P

The seal was broken, but you might be able to sneak it past him since his wisdom saves are at a disadvantage.

Remember that Tarl was also worried about the slaves being held in the dungeon.
Oct 16, 2016 1:51 am
Bhjurba takes another deep drink while the party mutters among themselves.
OOC:
Magnus has the tobacco, Yrsa has the contract. There's only a few guards and a servant inside the room, you guys have plenty of wiggle room as long as you can disguise your actions.
Oct 16, 2016 4:38 pm
Yrsa removes the contract from within her robes. She makes a show of opening it up like a messenger about to recite a proclamation, holding it with one hand at the top of the document and her other supporting the bottom. With a graceful curtsy to Leilara, then to Bhjurba, Yrsa wordlessly asks for permission to recite the contract.

In truth, she is trying to give herself enough time to scan the letter quickly enough so that she can pronounce the words with a natural flow and isn't surprised by its contents, and her placement of hands is to hide the fact that the contract had a seal.

Rolls

Performance to read contract - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Sleight of Hand to hide broken seal - (1d20+6)

(8) + 6 = 14

Oct 17, 2016 11:29 am
Yrsa reads the contract off quite well, and doesn't trip over any words.

To the esteemed Bhjurba of the Kamatayan,

I am Lady Tsira Omon of the Great Generan Empire. The wise rulers of Genera have sent me to these lands in search of new lands and trade routes. The tales of your expertise reaches far, and I think me and you could get along quite well.

As you have surely noticed, the messengers I have sent are no ordinary servants. They are robust adventurers, champions, and wise scholars. They represent the expertise and strength that Genera has to offer, in exchange for a steady supply of food, drink, and labor.

Because this is our first line of communication, I have instructed them to assist your lands and people in any fashion. Sometimes small blades are more effective than blunt instruments. I assure you, this party can handle tasks that no mercenary band could ever hope to achieve.

I look forward to our future cooperation.

//Signed Lady Tsria//
OOC:
I guess it's more of a letter than a contract. Whatever, I'm not a lawyer!

Edit: Holy balls, he rolled good. Anyone want to assist Yrsa to give her an advantage on that roll? Just RP it and I'll accept it, as it's usually a combat action.

Rolls

Bhjurba's Insight (Wisdom) - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Disadvantage - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Oct 17, 2016 11:54 am
As Yrsa reads the contract, Leilara conjures a semi-translucent shadow of Lady Omon to read along with the contract, hoping that the arcane artistry will distract him from any un-business-like behavior.
Oct 17, 2016 1:17 pm
Magnus pulls out the box of tobacco, ready to present it to their esteemed host once Yrsa is done reading.
Oct 17, 2016 4:43 pm
OOC:
Which roll gets the advantage?
Oct 17, 2016 8:38 pm
OOC:
The slight of hand
Oct 18, 2016 12:12 am
When she finishes reciting the letter, Yrsa turns the paper to show Bhjurba the signature, as well as trying to hide the seal from view.

Rolls

Sleight of Hand - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

Oct 18, 2016 1:50 pm
Bhjurba notices that Yrsa attempted to hide the broken seal, but still seems to be fine with the deal laid out by Tsira.

"A fair deal, but you don't fool me, pirate. I know your type well, did you open the letter because you wanted to betray your owner, Lady Tsira?"

He gives a slight shrug, places his drink down, and signals a guard near the door.

"Send a runner, these adventurers are not to leave the gates until you receive my order."

Turning back to the party, he continues.

"You've proven yourself untrustworthy, so I want to be reassured of your abilities. I am confident I can supply your owner with the supplies she requires once this revolt is over. However, I first want you to find one of my subordinates who has gone... astray. Refusal would mean the deal is off, and there's plenty of room in the dungeon."

...

Leilara, you get the feeling that something that was following you just entered the room. When you turn to look there's nothing there but a flickering torch.
OOC:
The party can consider their options! Leilara, give me a constitution save.
Oct 18, 2016 3:02 pm
"Haha! Dungeon? I'm sure that's hardly necessary..." Leilara gulps.
OOC:
How many guards are in the room again?

Rolls

CON Save - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Oct 19, 2016 1:10 pm
OOC:
Three guards.
Leilara, you stifle a wave of nausea. You haven't felt this uneasy since that incident with the cloak, back in the Royal Museum of Eskilar. That cloak is definitely hundreds of miles away, stored safely within the city. Maybe something of similar arcane power is nearby?
Oct 19, 2016 2:02 pm
Leilara looks around, a bit frantic.
OOC:
Can I tell how nearby we're talking? Also, do the guards appear better armed and outfitted than we are?
Oct 19, 2016 4:26 pm
"It is a big city," observes Yrsa, mindful of Leilara's change in demeanor. "Who is your subordinate?"
Oct 19, 2016 11:51 pm
OOC:
They are near enough to tell that you were whispering, but not close enough to make out what you said. The look as well equipped at the other guards you saw earlier.
Bhjurba responds to Yrsa.

"A surgeon named Caulder. He was always a strange one, but was good at his craft. He went missing right before the revolt and I haven't had time to find out what happened."
Oct 20, 2016 12:10 am
"Distinguishing features? Telltale habits or behavior?" Yrsa asks, business-like.
Last edited October 20, 2016 12:11 am
Oct 20, 2016 8:57 am
OOC:
Shit, forgot that Magnus presented the tobacco. Whoopsie poopsie
Bhjurba starts to get annoyed at the questions, but his mood lightens when he sees Magnus's present.

"Human, light colored hair. Many of the buildings surrounding this tower were looted, but you should visit the hospital. It's where he spent most of his time."

He grabs a small pinch of the stuff brings it to his nose.

"Oh, this is the good stuff! I hear the Genera nobles spend all day smoking this stuff. You might be wearing Generan armor, but you're alright in my book."

He pauses for a moment and gently lays the box of tobacco onto the table, near the glasses of wine.

"What were your names, again?"

Magnus earns 150 XP for using his quest item!
Oct 20, 2016 1:08 pm
"Magnus." the large human says simply.
Oct 20, 2016 4:00 pm
"I'm... I'm Leilara Thistlefeather. Uhhh... is it warm in here? It feels really warm in here. Please excuse me." Leilara sputters as she puts her hands on her knees, squats, and takes deep, measured breaths.
Oct 20, 2016 4:01 pm
"Yrsa," answers the pirate.

In the minds of both Leilara and Magnus, Yrsa's thoughts whisper, What's our play here? I'm not getting a sense from either of you if we want to take him out now, or complete his request first. Of course, Yrsa cannot receive a reply, but she hopes it prompts some visual or spoken cue from the others on what they wish to do.
Oct 20, 2016 4:04 pm
Magnus takes a seemingly relaxed stance and gently rests his hand near the hilt of his sword, nodding very slightly at Yrsa while Bhjurba sniffs the tobacco.
Oct 20, 2016 4:05 pm
Leilara looks a bit pale as she shakes her head vigorously.
OOC:
I kinda want to find this Calder fellow and figure out if we can use him to lower Bhjurba's guard and get him to wine and smoke up. Then maybe we can capture him? Alternatively, if you think we can take out these guards and knock out the dwarf AND escape I'm fine with that too.
Oct 20, 2016 4:48 pm
Yrsa watches Leilara out of the corner of her eye, and returns her attention to the dwarf. "Thank you for this opportunity to prove ourselves, Master Bhjurba," she says, offering a polite curtsey. "We request your permission to search the surrounding buildings and the hospital. We would also like to be able to question your guards and your staff in order to track down your surgeon."

To her companions, We'll find this Calder. Maybe it will drop Bhjurba's guard. What's the matter with (you|Leilara)?
Oct 20, 2016 5:05 pm
Leilara gives a smaller shake of her head as she collects fresh air, attempting to indicate we'll talk when we're outside.
Last edited October 20, 2016 5:05 pm
Oct 21, 2016 2:02 pm
Bhjurba nods and the guards move away from the exit door, allowing the group to exit.

"Happy hunting."
OOC:
The hospital is that building where Kilo is perched, not too far from the tower. Do you want to head straight out or make any stops?
Oct 21, 2016 4:02 pm
If they're around, or on the way, Yrsa would like to find the bearded guard or Gonzo to ask about Calder and get a better description. Otherwise, even if it's pitch-dark, she has no issue with stepping back out into the city for the building with the strange bird.
Oct 23, 2016 2:32 am
Gonzo and the guard captain with the beard should be in the barracks, near the gate. A line of torches lead the way back there, but that's all they lead to. The building with Kilo is about halfway down the torch trial. It is dark out, so anyone without low-light or dark vision will have to rely on a light source.
Oct 23, 2016 3:06 am
Leilara takes a DEEP breath as soon as she's in the fresh air.

"He's got something intensely magical in there. I mean, arcane enough that I could feel it in my gut. In a not so good way. I don't want to be on the receiving end of whatever that is, so we gotta walk him out of there unsuspecting somehow. I know we have the spells and muscle for it, but it has to be the right time...

Leilara looks back around the buildings.

"Perhaps after we find this Calder. I mean..." Her voice lowers to a whisper. "The slaves could probably use a medic too, right?"
Oct 24, 2016 3:01 pm
"Could you tell at all what the object might have been or done?" Magnus asks, cursing his lack of training in the arcane arts. He rubs his hand on the hilt of his sword to make himself feel better.
Oct 24, 2016 4:29 pm
Yrsa listens, interested in learning about whatever it is that has affected Leilara so.
Oct 24, 2016 5:14 pm
"No I just... I have a history of being sensitive to these kinds of things, so all I really know is that it's strong enough to turn my stomach. Urgh. And if it's that powerful, I don't want to mess with it... directly. But if we can put him off his guard, I think he's overconfident enough to walk into a trap."
Last edited October 24, 2016 5:14 pm
Oct 24, 2016 5:19 pm
Yrsa nods. "All right, we'll keep that in mind. Since the hospital is on the way, let's head over there. Your bird friend might still be there, too, and maybe now's a better chance to have an extended conversation with it." The pirate begins to head down the path, unconcerned about any lack of light.
Oct 24, 2016 5:27 pm
"Oh yes of course... my FAMILIAR. Let's see what trouble it's gotten into." Leilara breathes deeply while walking towards the hospital.
Oct 24, 2016 5:42 pm
Magnus strikes up a torch before moving on with the others.
Oct 24, 2016 5:49 pm
I will move a bit ahead, Yrsa's thoughts express. I see fine in the dark, and maybe I'll root out anything that's waiting for us. She pads ahead, scouting the path a distance before the torch.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Oct 26, 2016 9:56 am
The party makes it's way down the lit path, with Yrsa sticking to the shadows. She's not really all that stealthy, but it would be rude to point it out to her.

At the front of the hospital Kilo is still perched on the red cross. By the silky smoothness of his feathers, it looks like he just finished preening himself. Kilo is a bit startled by Yrsa, but doesn't get too spooked.

SQUAWK! "Back so soon? Not eaten?"

There's one window in the front that has thin curtains on the inside, and the front door seems unlocked. This whole area looks like it's been neglected since the revolt started a few days ago, and the smell of death still hangs in the air.

Rolls

Kilo perception - (1d20+3)

(5) + 3 = 8

Oct 26, 2016 3:59 pm
"Yes, we have managed to avoid becoming dinner," says Yrsa, looking up at the bird. "Perhaps the dwarf thought we were too gamey." Her statement is intended to see if that was what the bird was referring to.

"Come on down. We wish to talk, and it would be better if our conversation were a little quieter."
Oct 28, 2016 9:20 am
Kilo tilts his head side to side in contemplation, then flutters down to the ground.

"Dwarf not eat yet, still stores of food. Maybe after many sunset."

He struts and weaves between the party showing off his plumage.

"What you ask me? The wise and orange Kilo!"
Oct 28, 2016 3:03 pm
"Alright then Kilo, do you know if there's anyone in that building you were sitting upon?"
Oct 29, 2016 5:26 am
Kilo studies Leilara for a bit before answering.

"I see no one. I did not go inside. I was in cage, you know? Met Bhjurba. Almost got fed to dungeon!" SQUAWK
Oct 29, 2016 7:36 am
"Since we're here," begins Yrsa, "why don't you tell us why you were in that cage? Were you someone's pet, or prisoner?"
Oct 29, 2016 9:49 am
"Born in cages, lived in cages. Not in cage anymore, so is good day!" SQUAWK

The bird stretches out his eight foot wingspan to emphasize his point.
Oct 30, 2016 7:06 pm
"Well, we're leaving here after dealing with... all this. Would you want to come with us? Our employer isn't a big fan of cages, so there'd be none waiting for you."
Oct 31, 2016 9:22 am
SQUAWK "Kilo wants to travel, but will visit! Good eyes, you know. Will spot you."
Oct 31, 2016 3:51 pm
"How's your memory?" Yrsa asks, thoughtful. "Perhaps if we were to give you directions to our Lady, you might deliver a message?"
Nov 1, 2016 9:53 am
"Might? I might. Kilo has good eyesight. What does the message look like?"
Nov 1, 2016 4:39 pm
"A spoken message," Kiva clarifies. "You look smart enough to be able to remember what we say, yes?"
Nov 3, 2016 11:36 am
Kilo blinks and waits for the message. He doesn't seem entirely confident, but at the same time doesn't want to piss Yrsa off.

SQUAWK."Attempt will be made, worry not!"
Nov 3, 2016 4:24 pm
Yrsa turns to her companions. "What do you all think? Ask Kilo to send word to Lady Omon about our progress?"
Nov 3, 2016 4:29 pm
"Sounds reasonable to me. Would it be easier to send him with a letter, or just trust him to remember everything?"
Nov 3, 2016 4:37 pm
"A letter!" Yrsa repeats with a smile. "I can see you've got the brains in the family. So, you've got paper?"
Nov 3, 2016 4:53 pm
"Unfortunately no, I don't. I was hoping you or Leilara might, though if we look around we may be able to find some, either way," Magnus says.
Nov 4, 2016 11:17 am
Leilara overturns half her outfit as she pulls her various pockets inside out. Many bits of odd dust and trinkets fall out, but she eventually turns toward her compatriots empty-handed and shrugs sheepishly.
Nov 4, 2016 3:49 pm
"Pity," says Yrsa, doing a quick scan to see if there happens to be some parchment lying about the buildings. "Well, lacking anything of the sort, we'll have to trust Kilo."

The pirate turns to fix her good eye upon the bird. "But Kilo is very smart, isn't he? Surely he is perfectly capable of remembering the message we would like delivered?"

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Nov 4, 2016 11:39 pm
Kilo nods enthusiastically. It's not that he doesn't want to do it, just that he's a bit of a bird-brain.

If you want to write a message, there's probably paper inside the hospital or some other building that requires administration. Leilara found that letter in the tower, so it's not like writing materials are rare in Bhjurba.
Nov 4, 2016 11:41 pm
Magnus digs through things in the area until he finds paper and a quill with ink, "Here, write a letter, it will be much easier and far more reliable."
Nov 5, 2016 8:47 am
OOC:
That works as well! :P
Nov 10, 2016 11:54 pm
OOC:
Magnus is not a writer and will let someone else compose the letter
Nov 11, 2016 12:09 am
"Suddenly I lack the eloquence to come up with something... eloquent," says Yrsa, but she tries her best.

Lady Omon,

We have reached Bhjurba's Den to find it amidst a slave uprising. We have reconnoitered the two sides in this conflict and hope to resolve the situation in a manner that benefits your House. On behalf of Leilara and Magnus, we continue our efforts.

Yours,
Yrsa

PS. This messenger may prove useful to you. Goes by the name of Kilo, and is a bird-like creature of intelligence. Leilara freed him (?) from captivity and his compliance in delivering this letter may warrant continued service.
Nov 11, 2016 1:18 am
OOC:
I have never seen the word reconnoitered in my life, whoa.
You fold the letter and secure it to Kilo's leg. He gives it a little shake, but it's not uncomfortable for him.

"Will go! Which way? Kilo will find."

As soon as you point him in the right direction he'll take off.
Nov 11, 2016 2:23 am
Yrsa asks for Leilara's map to direct Kilo, hoping the landmarks help navigate the bird.
OOC:
Yrsa saw it once in a ship's log back in her pirating days. Doesn't know what it means, specifically, but figured it looks fancy enough.
Nov 11, 2016 11:56 am
Kilo studies the map for a few moments, and then launches himself into flight. In a short amount of time he's only a black blob on the horizon. After he's gone the atmosphere shifts back from whimsical to dark, as you remember the brutal siege/revolt that is taking place.
Nov 11, 2016 4:30 pm
"Right," says Yrsa, doubt creeping into her confident demeanor for perhaps the first time. She hopes releasing Kilo to Lady Omon is a good plan, purposefully hiding the group's true intentions in case the message is intercepted. "Let's... uh, let's see about finding Calder. Any clues in the hospital?"

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+3)

(11) + 3 = 14

Nov 11, 2016 7:06 pm
"Now that we're done with that..." Magnus says quietly, then begins looking for Calder.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Nov 11, 2016 11:11 pm
Leilara follows Magnus and Yrsa, keeping her eyes and ears open for anything that might give away someone's presence.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+1)

(19) + 1 = 20

Nov 12, 2016 2:28 pm
OOC:
You all rolled pretty good, so I'll give you three separate areas and you tell me where you specifically want to snoop around.
The entrance hall is dark, but the rectangular room is small enough to become illuminated one Magnus steps inside. The dirty floor and grimy walls show clear signs of looting and battle. The air smells like a mix of rubbing alcohol and moldy prison cell. There's a few holes and slash marks, nothing arcane or magical. None of you feel the presence of anything living, aside from a rat you saw scurry off. There's three doors on the far end of the hall, each on a separate wall.

Yrsa checks out the room on the left. There's lots of destroyed shelves and crates, and floor is covered in broken clash and splinters of wood. The smell of chemicals and alcohol is very strong the deeper you go inside the room. it looks like this room took the brunt of the looting, but you might find something if you take the time to investigate.

Magnus heads though the middle doorway, or what was left of it. The whole frame was destroyed, and actually had to step over the broken door to get inside. This room is full of iron cages, and there's a lot of dark stains on the floor. In the very back of the room you see someone's feet poking out from behind some kind of operating table.

Leilara takes the room on the right and finds a stuffy looking office. There are papers scattered on the floor, but it is otherwise untouched. Guess the rebels didn't care about stealing the hospital records? While picking through some papers, you find a desk that has letters that were signed by Caulder. A good place to snoop around, but the drawers on his desk are all locked.
Nov 12, 2016 5:18 pm
Yrsa briefly thinks about poking through the debris, but does not quite feel up to the task and remembers her primary mission of finding the man. She returns to the entrance hall.
Nov 14, 2016 10:24 pm
Magnus silently draws his sword from its well-oiled sheath. He moves as quietly as he can toward the area the feet are sticking out of.

Rolls

Stealth (Disadvantage) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

1d20+2 : (6) + 2 = 8

1d20+2 : (15) + 2 = 17

Nov 15, 2016 4:23 am
Leilara takes a look at the contents of Calder's letters to see if they give any further details about his role in Bhjurba's operation.
Nov 15, 2016 10:37 am
Yrsa makes her way back to the entrance hall.
OOC:
You can pop into one of the other rooms to look around, help out, break stuff, ect.
Magnus moves as silently as possible for a large human wearing armor, and investigates the opposite side of the table. There's a body that has been badly trampled, and his face is virtually nonexistent. It looks as though it was stabbed repeatedly with a hammer or some other blunt object. Whoever this was, he sure was hated. Magnus does note that the ears were pointed, so it was a half-elf.

Leilara reads the letters on top of the desk, and finds them not as dramatic as she hoped. It's mostly work related reports on his hospital work. There's injured guards and slaves, slaves assigned to 'behavioral modification', and a couple notes on chemistry. You also found a few drawings of a droopy looking plant, and a rough sketch of a gaping cave. All the other drawers are locked.
OOC:
Magnus sure is good at discovering dead bodies.
Nov 15, 2016 3:26 pm
"Hey Yrsa, you any good with a lock pick? I'd love to get these drawers open."
Nov 15, 2016 3:40 pm
Magnus walks back out to the main room with the others, "Nothing but a dead body in there."
Nov 15, 2016 4:19 pm
"Is it our doctor?" Yrsa asks Magnus.

To Leilara, she replies, "Not really. Never needed to learn as most people were... uh, more than happy to open their own chests and trunks. We could smash it, if you like."
Nov 15, 2016 4:29 pm
"Hard to tell, he's pretty well mutilated, not much face left. I think he was a half-elf, based on the ears, but it's hard to be sure."
Nov 15, 2016 5:02 pm
"Perhaps an assistant?" Yrsa shrugs. "No matter, he wasn't human, so he's not our man."
Nov 15, 2016 6:46 pm
"Another corpse? Gross. How do we keep running into these things...? I want to get out of here..." Leilara sighs before perking up. "But before that, Magnus, would you like to smash open a desk?"
Nov 15, 2016 7:09 pm
"Sure," Magnus says, "Lead the way."
Nov 15, 2016 7:11 pm
Yrsa follows, curious as to what might be found inside the desk.
Nov 15, 2016 8:16 pm
Leilara leads the pair into the office and presents the desk. "Have at it. I'm hoping we can find papers of a more personal or explicative nature. Maybe something to help puzzle out the situation we're in."
Nov 15, 2016 8:17 pm
"Let me give it a shot," Magnus says and then attempts to smash the lock on the drawer and bust it open.

Rolls

Strength Check - (1d20+3)

(12) + 3 = 15

Nov 16, 2016 10:47 am
Using his fist like a hammer, Magnus breaks the lock with a loud CRACK. Wood is no match for a determined adventurer! The heavy silence returns to the destroyed room, and Magnus pulls the drawer open. Inside the locked drawer is a locket and what looks like a journal or diary. The three of you crowed around as Leilara flips through the pages.

From what you can gather, Caulder was a very good chemist that often explored outside of Bhjurba's Den to look for special herbs. Though it's a diary, it's mostly about his work. He has detailed his discovery of a few ruins, caves, and rock formations. However, Caulder's notes begin to focus on a particular cave he dubbed the "Singing Cave".

After visiting the Singing Cave his notes about work become very short and vague, but every so often he'd write pages detailing every single aspect of the cave. He recorded plants, minerals, wildlife... Was he looking for something or was he just bored?

Caulder often mentioned a strange humming or murmuring sound inside the cave. What started as a "slight sound" had evolved into "gibbering" and then finally into "speaking" near the middle of the journal. His penmanship also began to suffer, and each turn of the page brought more ecstatic descriptions of the cave. Until finally, you come across and single phrase scrawled over two pages.

I FOUND IT

Followed by a few pages of repeated phrases. "Must test", "Safe underground", "Blinding light", and "Dungeon in my mind in my dungeon". Eventually the scrawling becomes too hard to read, and the last few pages are just torn paper and spilled ink.
Nov 16, 2016 3:53 pm
Yrsa allows the halfling scholar to peruse the journal, while her eye catches sight of the locket. She inspects the item and goes so far as to try and open it.
Nov 16, 2016 5:53 pm
"This... this is frightening... it's... Well, it's quite strange, really. I..."

Leilara studies the papers, looking confused, until a resolute and solemn look sets into her face.

"Something's going on here... something even scarier than Bhjurba's slaving, if that's possible. I think we need to get this Caulder and bring him back with us. Furthermore, I think we need whatever that nauseating magical force Bhjurba has. We let the freed people take over, sign the deal with them, and hopefully get more information about what's going on in this part of the world. I'm sure that if we present all this to Lady Omon... she'll know what to do."
Last edited November 17, 2016 9:07 pm
Nov 17, 2016 6:32 am
The locket isn't anything fancy, but it must have meant something to Caulder. Inside is a picture an old picture of a pretty half-elf woman with dark hair, and a phrase etched in elvish.

The party earns 300 XP for discovering a lead to a quest that has irrevocable consequences! Hooray!
OOC:
Hmm, you know it's been a while sense you guys have done anything taxing. You can take the benefits of a short rest and regain any spells slots/ability points you might have spent. You'll need em.
Nov 17, 2016 6:41 pm
"As fine a plan as any, Leilara," nods Yrsa. "Does it seem reasonable to find this cave and see if our quarry sought refuge there? And does anybody recognize these symbols?" She shows the phrase to the others.
OOC:
Craster or Calder? I'm assuming it's the same person.

Also, I just realized that I never took a second language for Yrsa. Instead of metagaming and picking Elvish, I went with Sahuagin to match the seafaring backstory.
Nov 17, 2016 6:49 pm
OOC:
Hilariously, I didn't pick one either...

Going to roll a d8 to randomly determine my extra language from the list of common languages + Draconic (from my connections with Tsira and her husband)

EDIT: Halfling it is!
Last edited November 17, 2016 6:49 pm

Rolls

Language! - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Nov 17, 2016 6:50 pm
Magnus shakes his head, unable to read the language.
Nov 17, 2016 9:03 pm
"Definitely elvish, but I could never wrap my head around that one. Too many honorific tenses..."

Leilara muses briefly about her spotty education. She soon snaps out of her reverie.

"So! We have to find this Caulder first. Upstairs?"
OOC:
Accidentally called him Caulder and now CONFUSION. My bad. :P
Last edited November 17, 2016 9:07 pm
Nov 17, 2016 9:06 pm
OOC:
You know, I keep bouncing between Caulder and Craster. I blame Game of Thrones. It was supposed to be Caulder though, but it's not THAT big of a deal. xD
Nov 17, 2016 9:07 pm
handle says:
OOC:
You know, I keep bouncing between Caulder and Craster. I blame Game of Thrones. It was supposed to be Caulder though, but it's not THAT big of a deal. xD
OOC:
Clearly none of us can click the 'Back' button. :P I edited mine for my own sanity.
Nov 17, 2016 9:27 pm
Reporting back to Bhjurba is definitely an option, but finding the cave would be fruitless. Whatever it is Caulder found, he brought back to the town. From his last scrawlings it looked like he wanted to go somewhere secure, dark, underground, and with plent of test subjects.
Nov 17, 2016 10:04 pm
Yrsa nods, and continues the search through the building. "Not for nothing," she says as an aside, "but I don't think the slaves will want the services of this particular doctor."
Last edited November 17, 2016 10:05 pm
Nov 18, 2016 11:49 am
You find a lot of small tools scattered on the ground, a pile of ruin papers, and a a potions that was surprisingly intact. It smells of strong rum, hell just be rum if it wasn't so orange.

You also discern that the first room you entered, the one that smelled like chemicals, was where they did all their alchemy. Not much left in the room to scavenge, at least from what your good eye can see.
Nov 21, 2016 12:21 pm
OOC:
Anything else you want to do here? What's your next move?
Nov 21, 2016 3:27 pm
"You think we should check the dungeons?" says Yrsa. "Bhjurba might not always know who's in there, and maybe this Caulder relocated."
Nov 21, 2016 4:32 pm
Magnus shrugs, "Sounds like a fair next step to me."
Nov 21, 2016 4:45 pm
"All right, let's ask the guards for the keys," says Yrsa with a wink. "And if they're silly enough to comply, we'll have an easier time of it."
Nov 21, 2016 10:51 pm
OOC:
You want to head to the guard barracks, or just the ones guarding the dungeon?
Nov 21, 2016 10:59 pm
Yrsa consider heading to the barracks. Perhaps simple questions asking where Caulder might be, or what the guards know of Caulder, will provide more clues.
Nov 21, 2016 11:08 pm
OOC:
Go ahead and roll investigate to ask around the barracks about Caulder
Nov 21, 2016 11:22 pm
Yrsa's not the greatest when it comes to asking questions, as she prefers a more-direct approach. Unfortunately, what works for pirates will not work in this situation, but she tries her best to work against her bad reputation and inquire without making demands.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20-1)

(14) - 1 = 13

Nov 23, 2016 6:20 am
Leilara searches high and low for a guard with some information about their quarry. Searching for people is nothing like searching for artifacts, but it can't be THAT different, right?

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+1)

(10) + 1 = 11

Nov 23, 2016 3:59 pm
Feeling more comfortable in a barracks than meeting with Bhjurba, Magnus makes his way around, trying to find someone he can get the key from.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Nov 26, 2016 1:14 pm
After regrouping from your separate investigations, you learn a little bit about Caulder:

A prostitute remembers that Caulder never hired her or the other girls because he was loyal to his wife. However, she had never seen his wife in the 7 years she had lived in Bhjurba's Den.

One of the guards on the wall said he routinely saw Caulder traveling between the hospital and the tower.

And a tried looking guard told you to screw off.
Nov 27, 2016 3:09 pm
"So we patrol between the hospital and the wall then? Until we find this 'virtuous' magic-addled weirdo?"
Nov 27, 2016 4:14 pm
"Let's search the dungeon," Yrsa suggests.
Nov 28, 2016 3:31 pm
"Might as well I suppose. After all, we could just end up there anyways."
Nov 28, 2016 4:36 pm
Magnus merely nods his assent, rolling his shoulders to stop his muscles from getting stiff.
Nov 28, 2016 4:40 pm
Yrsa looks for directions to the dungeon, taking careful note on any special procedures or who holds the keys.
Nov 28, 2016 10:05 pm
After getting some info, the party heads for the tower dungeon. Yrsa learned that it was easy enough to find in the tower, but the keeper who had the keys was a bit of weirdo. There are two guards posted outside the door that leads to another set of stairs, and they stop you from entering.

"Halt, what business do you outsiders have down here?"
Nov 29, 2016 12:50 am
"Bhjurba sends us," Yrsa snaps. "We're after his quarry and we've reason to believe someone down here knows a thing or two, or maybe he's inside."
Last edited November 29, 2016 12:50 am
Nov 29, 2016 11:57 am
"Oh, er, please head inside, ma'am."

The guards hastily get out of your way.

"Leak is downstairs with the keys, but we haven't seen him in a while. He's, uh, been acting weirder than usual. Call for us if you need anything."
Nov 29, 2016 5:57 pm
Yrsa pauses. "Weirder? Like how?" She turns her good eye to the guard.
Nov 30, 2016 10:09 am
"Err, well he's always been weird. Right? Or is that just me?" The first guard asks the second.

"Yer right. It's all those chemicals he smells, I reckon." Is her response, and she turns to Yrsa with more detail.

"Leak's been a real pain in the rear since a bit before he revolt. Always makes us wait, ooooh, 10 minutes or so until he lets us inside so we can make rounds."
Nov 30, 2016 2:49 pm
"Well we plan to find out exactly what's going on. As you were," Leilara states with self-importance as she heads past them.
Nov 30, 2016 4:41 pm
Yrsa nods, and follows Leilara.

Only folk I know that take so long are smugglers or those with something to conceal, Yrsa's thoughts whisper into the minds of Leilara and Magnus each in turn. Question is, how do we entrap or entice this Leak to reveal his secret?
Nov 30, 2016 4:46 pm
Once they're away from the guards hearing, Magnus cracks his knuckles, whispering, "Everyone can be made to talk, even if reasoning with them fails."
Dec 1, 2016 11:17 am
Leilara bursts into the room at the bottom of the stairs, and is quickly followed by Magnus and Yrsa. A man with long, unkempt hair frantically slams his desk drawer shut at Leilara's sudden appearance. This must be who they call Leak, the only thing that overpowers his sketchiness is his stench. It smells like musty rat droppings down in this little 'office', and the only light comes from a single torch on the wall.

"W-what is the meaning of this?! I said no one can come down here, only I can ensure these prisoners don't escape!"

@Leilara - You immediately feel the same presence you felt when you were in the tower earlier. It felt like something was prowling right behind as you made your way down the stone steps. You've already resisted it's presence today, so you don't need to make another check.
OOC:
Loooot of possible things to do here, just ask any questions and make rolls~
Dec 1, 2016 4:18 pm
Yrsa strides into the room, ignoring the outburst with the practiced confidence of a pirate acting like they belong. She flanks Leilara like a bodyguard, letting her scimitar scabbard resound off her armor while she holds a handaxe, and prowls forward down the side of the room to the man. Planting the blade into the desk with a thunk, Yrsa calmly says, "Quiet," as she moves around to the other side to guide the man away by his shoulder. At the same time, her voice whispers an echo into the man's mind, quietquietquiet touched with what sounds like faint laughter underwater.

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+6)

(16) + 6 = 22

Dec 1, 2016 4:24 pm
Magnus draws himself up to his full height and begins stroking the pommel of his sword at his hip, glaring at the man menacingly.
OOC:
Trying to assist Yrsa's intimidation attempt, maybe giving her advantage?
Dec 1, 2016 6:03 pm
Fighting back revulsion, Leilara glares at this "Leak". While the others scare him into silence, Leilara looks around the room for anything that might tell her more about what diseased magic lurks here.

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+1)

(9) + 1 = 10

Dec 2, 2016 10:26 am
OOC:
Yes, helping out does give her advantage. You won't need it though, since she rolled higher than Leak can beat.
Leak silently moves out of the way, scared out of his wits. He clutches at himself as he watched you from the corner.

Leilara doesn't see anything that looks magical at all, just an desk with some writing utensils and cleaning equipment. You can look through them if you want, but Leak jumps a little when you put your hand near the desk drawers.

Rolls

Leak Insight (Dark Devotion Adv) - (1d20, 1d20)

1d20 : (15) = 15

1d20 : (1) = 1

Dec 2, 2016 4:09 pm
Yrsa pushes down on Leak's shoulder to get him to kneel, as well as bring him eye-level to Leilara. "We're going to ask you some questions," she begins, "and you will answer."

Yrsa's thoughts caress Leak's mind like a slippery tentacle, Yesss... talk nicely...
Dec 2, 2016 10:16 pm
OOC:
Go ahead and ask. xP
Dec 3, 2016 11:00 pm
"Let us start with the simple ones," Yrsa continues, maneuvering around the kneeling man. "Caulder. Have you seen him recently?"

The doctorrrr... (doctordoctordoctor)
Dec 3, 2016 11:14 pm
"C-caulder? He's not here, he lives in one of the buildings by the hospital!"
OOC:
Roll insight (with advantage) if you think he might be lying.

Rolls

Leak totally telling the truth - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Dec 3, 2016 11:21 pm
"I didn't ask where he lives, I asked if you've seen him," Yrsa remarks, casually. "But your quickness in deflecting my attention makes me think that you have, and further, that you have an arrangement."

...whatisitwhatisit...
Last edited December 3, 2016 11:23 pm

Rolls

Insight, Advantage - (1d20+1, 1d20+1)

1d20+1 : (1) + 1 = 2

1d20+1 : (19) + 1 = 20

Dec 4, 2016 7:57 am
Seeing that Yrsa isn't backing down, Leak caves slightly.

"H-he comes down here sometimes, but I don't know what he's doing! Not exactly, anyway... Sometimes the slaves aren't there anymore when he leaves. It's been a week since I last saw him!"
Dec 5, 2016 12:21 pm
While Yrsa keeps his attention, Leilara attempts to quietly move towards and inspect the desk drawers that he seemed to be nervous about.

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+6)

(4) + 6 = 10

Dec 5, 2016 4:30 pm
Yrsa continues her questioning. "And when you last saw him a week ago, he hadn't left?" she asks, willfully planting the last part to see how Leak responds.

...whatdoeshedo...surelyyouknow...

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Dec 6, 2016 8:44 am
"I-I don't know for sure! I just know that slaves disappear...mostly disappear anyway."

Inside the drawer you find a worn box, looks like it's something Leak uses to store things. The box is filled with loose teeth of varying size and shape. You notice human, half-orc, and a few others you can't place.

"AHH! Don't touch my box! Please!"

It looks like he's about to launch himself at Leilara.

Rolls

Leak Perception - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Dec 6, 2016 3:46 pm
Yrsa cracks her whip. "Focus!" she says, trying to draw Leak's attention back to her.

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Dec 6, 2016 4:32 pm
Magnus steps between Leak and Leilara, half-drawing his sword as a threat, "Step back!" he shouts, growling at the disgusting wretch.

Rolls

Intimidation - (1d20+5)

(5) + 5 = 10

Dec 7, 2016 4:51 am
Leilara drops the horror-box with a small shriek. She then studies the teeth from a safe distance, intrigued but disgusted.
Dec 7, 2016 8:07 am
At the sight of Magnus, Leak grits his teeth and stops in his tracks. He's still glaring at Leilara, but he doesn't dare move closer.

"He came in here, yes. There two torches in the main room, he told me not to let anyone in while only one was lit. I don't know what he's doing."
OOC:
@Leilara - You can roll nature or medicine to determine how to teeth got in that state, arcana if you think there's something magical, or insight to deduce the meaning of Leak's attachment.
Dec 7, 2016 3:46 pm
"And what did he pay to buy your cooperation?" asks Yrsa.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(20) + 1 = 21

Dec 8, 2016 2:47 am
Leilara inspects the teeth with revolted fascination.

Rolls

Medicine - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Dec 8, 2016 8:10 am
Yrsa can tell that Leak holds a great amount of admiration for Caulder, but isn't quite sure of the reason why. It must have something to do with whatever Caulder found in the 'Whispering Cave'.

"He's a doctor, he's has a right to experiment! I'm content to just guard the door, and I pick up anything the slaves leave behind."

By inspecting the teeth Leilara finds out a few details. First, there are no cuts or dents in the teeth, so they weren't surgically removed or pulled. Second is that they are all fairly undamaged, as if the rest of the jaw was somehow melted away. Lastly, they are too white to be the teeth of slaves, unless their teeth were bleached or had the first few layers of enamel removed.
Dec 8, 2016 4:24 pm
"Ah yes, his experiments," Yrsa continues. "I'm sure you know something about them. Curiosity must have been strong; what was he doing?"

...whatwashedoing...
Dec 10, 2016 6:10 am
Leak pleads with the party.

"I told you, I don't know! You can look around if you want, just don't kill me!"
Dec 11, 2016 2:36 am
Yrsa idly inspects her fingernails, before looking back at Leak. "I believe you; you probably weren't allowed to watch what he was doing, yes?" she says. "However, you must have seen what he brought with him. What he carried in, what he carried out. That sort of thing."

Yrsa's thoughts take on a different tone, almost primal and black, from the deepest depths, ...isittasty?isitdelicious?...
Dec 11, 2016 3:57 am
Leak collapses onto the floor, unable to take Yrsa's mental assault. He has his hands clasped over his ears, and his eyelids are scrunched shut. It looks like he's crying softly as he rocks back and forth.
Dec 11, 2016 4:37 am
Yrsa looks over at Magnus and Leilara, and shrugs as though she doesn't know what is wrong with the sniveling man.
Dec 13, 2016 9:05 pm
Magnus shakes his head in disgust, then bends down to tie him up and gag him. "No need to have him around to try and alert Caulder before we show up to visit," he says.
Dec 13, 2016 9:07 pm
Yrsa looks for the keys to the dungeon, if it's on Leak's body or around the room itself.
Dec 13, 2016 9:38 pm
"Now I'm sure that saying that these removed teeth are very strange is rather redundant, but these removed teeth ARE rather strange. They don't seem to have been extracted by means I can identify. It's almost as if they fell out of a head or were... melted off? This just gets worse and worse..."
Dec 14, 2016 8:03 am
Magnus ties Leak up, and loops the rope through a ring on the wall. He won't be getting out of there easily.

Yrsa grabs the ring of rusted keys off the wall, but there are no labels telling which doors they open. The door to the main dungeon room is unlocked, so these keys must be used for the cells.
Dec 14, 2016 3:53 pm
Yrsa opens the door to the main dungeon room, one hand hovering over the pommel of her scimitar just in case.
Dec 15, 2016 2:15 pm
The dungeon room is dim, with only one torch lit on the far back wall. There's six large cells in the dungeon, with three one each side. Only two of the cells are crammed with a good amount of slaves, while the other three are suspiciously empty. They've been locked down here for a while, many of them look resigned to their fate.
Dec 15, 2016 4:33 pm
Yrsa's devilish vision compensates well in the dim light, and she stops by the two occupied cells. She scans the slaves, looking to pick out any half-orcs amongst them.
Dec 16, 2016 4:37 pm
Magnus stops by each of the empty cells, sticking his torch into each one, trying to see if there's anything out of place.

Rolls

Perception Cell 1 - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Perception Cell 2 - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Perception Cell 3 - (1d20+4)

(13) + 4 = 17

Dec 19, 2016 11:51 am
Yrsa spots a half-orc that towers over the rest, she had a pissed off look on her face. She also looks incredibly similar to Tarl, except with more feminine features and thicker eyebrows. This must be his sister, Yujo.

Meanwhile, Magnus slowly searches the cells. Each wave of the torch reveals little, these cells are completely barren - clean even. Once he reaches the end of the room, he notices that both torches are now lit. Strange, he could've sworn there was only one lit when the part first entered the room. Inspecting the wall with the torches further, he notices a trail of yellowish slime that leads to the ceiling. However, the ceiling is too high for him to see in the darkness.
Dec 19, 2016 4:09 pm
OOC:
How many prisoners are here in total? Follow-up question, did we find out where the armory is?
Dec 19, 2016 4:35 pm
"Yrsa, come here and look at this," Magnus says, pointing to the trail of slime, "Your eyes are better than mine. Perhaps you can see what's up there?"
Dec 19, 2016 4:39 pm
The pirate turns, eye lingering on Yujo with more than a passing interest. She finally leaves, approaching Magnus and looking where indicated. Yrsa is about to make a distasteful remark about the slime and Magnus' personal hygiene, but catches her words as she focuses on the trail leading upward to the ceiling.
Last edited December 19, 2016 4:39 pm
Dec 20, 2016 8:36 am
On the ceiling is a very large, ochre jelly. It's surprising to see one in the desert. It's slowly heading towards the cage filled with prisoners.
Dec 20, 2016 8:51 am
Yrsa's eye widens. "Ooze!" she calls out as a warning. She tosses the keys to Leilara. "It's coming after them! Be ready!"

Tapping deep into her psyche, Yrsa's false eye 'opens' and a dark power wells up, expanding her senses to Hex the ooze above. The energy flows down her shoulders to her fingertips, and she releases it as a whip-like beam of arcane force.
OOC:
Hex will afflict the ooze's Strength checks
Last edited December 20, 2016 8:53 am

Rolls

Eldritch Blast, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (10) + 6 = 16

1d10+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

1d6 : (1) = 1

Dec 20, 2016 9:05 am
OOC:
Go ahead and roll initiative for the party, Yrsa.
Yrsa's spell nails the jelly, causing it to fall down to the ground. It lands on top of a cell and slips though the bars. The slaves in the cells start to panic wildly, but some seem to be accepting of their fate.

Rolls

Ooze Initiative - (1d20-2)

(4) - 2 = 2

Prisoners - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Dec 20, 2016 2:33 pm
Leilara catches the keys with a startled look.

"Were those teeth... ooze cleaned?! GROSS."

Leilara thinks for a second, then decides that it's worth the risk. She skips over to the cell and attempts to unlock the prisoners' cage.

Rolls

Initiative! - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Dec 22, 2016 6:25 am
OOC:
You can unlock the cell, just waitin on Yrsa to do initiative since she started the fight.
Dec 22, 2016 6:26 am
OOC:
Oh, sorry! I figured Leilara rolled initiative so we'd use that instead. I'll add the roll to this post.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Dec 22, 2016 6:37 am
OOC:
So the order is:
Prisoners
Party
Ooze
Leilara manages to find the right key, and unlocks the cell that the ooze was headed towards. The last cell on the other side of the room is still full. In their panic, the prisoners bum-rush the door and stampede out. Leilara gets caught in the middle, as she was standing right in front of the door. (@Leilara - Roll a STR save to push back, or a DEX save to just get out of the way.)
Dec 22, 2016 12:46 pm
"Whoa WHOA be careful! I'm right here!"

Rolls

DEX Save to Dodge! - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Dec 23, 2016 6:43 am
Leilara gracefully leaps above the crowd and grabs onto the cell bars, keeping her far above the fray. The herd of prisoners quickly break down the door, and charge up the stairwell. However, it sounds like the guards are easily keeping them contained, and you hear what sounds like a few bodies being shoved back down the stairs.
OOC:
It's the party's turn!
Dec 23, 2016 6:48 am
Yrsa keeps the slime in view, launching another blast of eldritch energy.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (9) + 6 = 15

1d10+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

1d6 : (3) = 3

Dec 23, 2016 6:48 am
Not seeing a way into the Cell, Magnus draws his crossbow and fires a bolt at the ooze.
Last edited December 23, 2016 2:44 pm

Rolls

Attack! - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (16) + 5 = 21

1d8+5 : (7) + 5 = 12

Dec 23, 2016 7:24 am
OOC:
@Magnus - The cell is locked, unfortunately. You'll have to find a way in, or just attack with a ranged weapon.
Yrsa's blast hits, but the ooze takes it in stride.
OOC:
So each side of the room has three cages. The ooze is on the left side, and fell into the middle cage (which is why the prisoners panicked). The ooze is currently closes to Leilara, as she is near the door of the first cage. Just thought I would clarify if someone was confused.
Dec 23, 2016 2:41 pm
OOC:
Sorry, my bad. Change the attack roll to 20 and damage to 9 and that's an attack from my crossbow. I'll adjust my post
Dec 23, 2016 5:18 pm
Leilara takes one look at the approaching ooze and makes a quick decision.

"NOPE. Nopenopenopenope...nopenopenopenopenope"

In her muttering, other strange words appear. As her hair shifts colors once again, she focuses on the ooze, sending a fearsome vision its way.
OOC:
Casting Phantasmal Force on the ooze! It must make an INT save vs. 14! Otherwise it believes itself to be trapped in a small room and will start taking d6 Psychic on its turn.

Rolls

Wild Magic Surge! - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Dec 23, 2016 10:38 pm
OOC:
@Leilara - What exactly is the illusion you are creating? To take damage it needs to be something dangerous. This spell is a bit tricky because oozes are so dumb, it'll think 'find small hole to escape' and start looking for an escape route by rubbing all over. Since the illusion isn't actually real, it'll easily pass through. You can take a different action instead, since the spell really have the desired effect on an ooze.
Magnus's arrow lodges itself firmly into the large ooze.

Rolls

Ooze INT - (1d20-4)

(10) - 4 = 6

Dec 24, 2016 3:52 pm
handle says:
OOC:
@Leilara - What exactly is the illusion you are creating? To take damage it needs to be something dangerous. This spell is a bit tricky because oozes are so dumb, it'll think 'find small hole to escape' and start looking for an escape route by rubbing all over. Since the illusion isn't actually real, it'll easily pass through. You can take a different action instead, since the spell really have the desired effect on an ooze.
Magnus's arrow lodges itself firmly into the large ooze.
OOC:
In that case, I'll switch up the illusion! Instead it will perceive a fake version of me to be in the room, specifically anywhere myself and my allies are not. It won't be of the injuring variety, but it should keep it from attacking us. Does that work?

Basically I'm imagining that it can't see us but CAN see a clone of me running up and down the walls. And, also, by "see" I mean, whatever oozes do. :)
Last edited December 24, 2016 3:53 pm
Dec 26, 2016 12:05 am
OOC:
Yes that works perfectly, though the illusion has to stay in one place. Basically, the target thinks it is real and treats it as such. It won't think it's fake, even after it attacks your clone. The spell relies on concentration as well, so you'll have to cancel it if you want to cast another concentration spell.

You could always use your nature skill to learn about an enemy! :P
The ooze, fooled by the illusion, spends its turn attempting to attack the fake Leilara. Even when half the cell is taken up by the ooze's large size, it still attempts to attack the air.
Dec 26, 2016 6:10 pm
OOC:
Assuming it's our turn?
Magnus loads another bolt into his crossbow, taking aim and firing again at the ooze.

Rolls

Crossbow Attack - (1d20+4, 1d8+2)

1d20+4 : (17) + 4 = 21

1d8+2 : (3) + 2 = 5

Dec 26, 2016 8:10 pm
Yrsa keeps up the assault, matching Magnus' bolt with an eldritch one of her own.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (10) + 6 = 16

1d10+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

1d6 : (3) = 3

Dec 27, 2016 4:36 am
The ooze continuously attacks Leilara's illusion, eager to eat the closest living thing that is near. It looks pretty wounded, and can't hold it's shape very well anymore.
Dec 27, 2016 3:45 pm
Continuing to concentrate on holding the illusion, Leilara spits a few caustic words and launches flames from her fingers.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+6)

(19) + 6 = 25

Fire Bolt Damage - (1d10)

(1) = 1

Dec 28, 2016 6:49 am
Leialra's spell hits! But... it was on the weak side, and doesn't have much effect.

The ooze continues to attack the illusion, it's pretty dumb.

Meanwhile, most of the prisoners have been beaten back by the guards. They had more numbers, but were pretty weak due to their poor living conditions. Yujo, Tarl's sister, wisely kept out of both fights and spent her time looking though Leak's pockets.

Rolls

Ooze INT - (1d20-4)

(1) - 4 = -3

Dec 28, 2016 6:52 am
Yrsa takes advantage of the ooze's distraction and unleashes another bolt. "I do hope those prisoners are doing okay. Something tells me we're going to have a lot of explaining to do."

Rolls

Eldritch Blast, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (6) + 6 = 12

1d10+4 : (10) + 4 = 14

1d6 : (2) = 2

Dec 28, 2016 6:57 am
Yrsa's blast finally kills the ooze.

The party earns 150 XP for routing their enemy!
OOC:
Combat is over!
Dec 28, 2016 7:03 am
"Magnus, can you smash that lock in the cell where the prisoners left? Maybe we can fool the guards into thinking that the panic from the ooze was enough to break through the door."
Dec 28, 2016 2:46 pm
"Here, let me try," Magnus says, attempting to smash the lock with the pommel of his sword.

Rolls

Strength Check - (1d20+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Dec 29, 2016 10:22 am
Magnus gives the lock a good smashin, but it doesn't do much good. The lock is still intact.

Meanwhile, the two guards posted outside start coming down the stairs, now that they have beaten back most of the prisoners.

"Alright, alright. Jail break over, we ain't getting paid to kill more of ya. Ya'll too weak, and the boss wants you alive."
Dec 29, 2016 3:56 pm
Yrsa sends a quick thought to the others. Should we free these prisoners now? It may make Bhjurba more desperate, and liable to make a mistake. It also satisfies Tarl's request for his companions to be freed.
Dec 29, 2016 8:14 pm
CancerMan says:
Yrsa sends a quick thought to the others. Should we free these prisoners now? It may make Bhjurba more desperate, and liable to make a mistake. It also satisfies Tarl's request for his companions to be freed.
"Absolutely. Let's overwhelm them now and we'll take the fight up to him and figure out what weird magic he's keeping up there. Then Tarl will have the resources and freedom to make deals with Lady Omon... I hope."
Dec 29, 2016 8:17 pm
Magnus nods, "Let's do it," he says grimly, drawing his sword and shield and moving up to the front of the group.
Dec 29, 2016 8:34 pm
Yrsa wields her whip and scimitar, looking like she is ready to support the guards in corralling the prisoners, when she is really moving to back Magnus up in their approach. "Leilara, open the other cell," she says, before trying to pick out the half-orc standing defiantly within.

We've been sent by Tarl, Yrsa's words echo into the half-orc's mind. If you can lead your compatriots, we will try to give you enough time to escape.
Dec 30, 2016 5:33 am
OOC:
Yujo is not in the second cage, she was in the one that was already opened. Remember that most of these slaves are children/women/elderly.
Yujo's eye dart around has Yrsa makes mental contact. She determines the source after seeing that Yrsa was the only one not using her real voice. Most of the other slaves are either wounded or cowering, Yujo alone is standing tall.

"I don't owe you nothing, pirate, and I'm not leading anyone. Tarl can waste his time with slaves, but I won't."

The guards enter Leak's office, and begin herding the slaves back into the main dungeon area. Yujo stands firm, yanks Leak's head around by the hair, and starts speaking to the two guards.

"This one went berserk, I think he was working with Caulder to help smuggle slaves out of the tower."

The guards are shocked to hear such an accusation, but they continue pushing the other slaves back into the main dungeon.

"Er, what? Is that where Caulder went? Are you lying?"

"I knew he was always a softy, not a good fit for the desert."
OOC:
Feel free to roll insight, interject, or do whatever else you fancy.
Dec 30, 2016 4:51 pm
As Leilara opens the other cage, she listens intently to Yujo's words, attempting to determine her motivations.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Dec 30, 2016 5:02 pm
That was unexpected, Yrsa thinks to herself.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

Dec 30, 2016 5:12 pm
Magnus listens to everything carefully.

Rolls

Insight - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Dec 30, 2016 11:32 pm
Everyone can easily tell that Yujo is making up the story about Caulder, especially since there was an ooze down here.

Yrsa is able to discern a little about Yujo's personality as well. It seems like she's the 'Only the strong survive' type, and mostly only cares about her own survival. You reckon that she allowed herself to get imprisoned down here because it was safer, but now wants to leave due to whatever Caulder has been doing.
Dec 30, 2016 11:49 pm
Something tells me the lovely family reunion we've been tasked with won't be as cordial, or cooperative, Yrsa thinks, sending these thoughts to the others. I am not sure this breakout will be as easy as we first believed, if Tarl's sister proves to be an obstacle.
Jan 4, 2017 11:54 am
The party stands in silence as the guards make their way into the main dungeon, and it sounds like a few more are coming down as well. Yujo gives everyone a serious stink-eye from where she stands in the office, next to Leak. Seems like she's saying 'Don't screw this up for me!'.

"You three? What in the gods happened in here?"
Jan 4, 2017 5:13 pm
Yrsa sheathes her scimitar and begins to coil her whip. "We came to investigate Caulder's disappearance, when we happened upon this scene. Look for yourselves." She indicates the empty cells.
Jan 5, 2017 10:11 am
"What do you me- oh GOD! Er... What's that massive pool of slime?"

As the first guard shoves the slaves back in their cell, the second pokes around at the dead ooze.

"It's dead, uh, I think. We don't have an ooze problem, they only live in deep caves. We definitely didn't let any oozes down here."

Yujo stammers in order to edit her story.

"Caulder created it to help the slaves slip between the bars!"

The second guard rubs his chin thoughtfully.

"Hmm, I guess they could've snuck jugs of it down here with the meals. Explains why Leak never let us down here."
OOC:
You guys already know Yujo is lying, so no need to roll insight.

Rolls

Guard Investigation - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Yujo Deception - (1d20+4)

(12) + 4 = 16

Guard Insight - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Jan 8, 2017 1:19 pm
Behind the guards' backs, Leilara mouths at her allies.

"HIT... GUARDS... NOW?"
Jan 9, 2017 7:48 pm
Yrsa spits, and folds her arms across her chest. "The ooze came in from back there," she says, indicating further down the hall. "You'll see the hole it used up on the ceiling." Having not fully inspected the area where she first saw the ooze, Yrsa's true purpose is to divert the guards' attentions away from the party.

When they are distracted, we'll hit them, Yrsa's thoughts transcribe in the minds of her companions. Tarl's sister may not be cooperative and may betray us, but we should at least free the children.

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Jan 9, 2017 11:43 pm
Magnus readies himself to attack as soon as Yrsa gives the signal.

Rolls

Readied attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (18) + 5 = 23

1d8+5 : (8) + 5 = 13

Jan 10, 2017 10:52 am
Once most of the prisoners are back in the cell, the two guards inspect the wall. They begin searching the wall with their torches. The other two, along with Yujo and Leak, are in the main office area.

"A hole in the ceiling? I feel a draft, but I don't see anything. Are you sure?"

Completely believing Yrsa's lie, they keep searching the wall for any hole that the ooze could have come from.
OOC:
You can all get a free attack, and then combat will start afterwards.
Jan 10, 2017 3:45 pm
Yrsa transfers her Hex upon the guard closest to the party, cursing the man's agility and dexterity. She maneuvers herself back towards the door in case the guards in the other room enter (not wishing to leave Leilara exposed), then draws her weapons and unleashes a blast of eldritch power at the man she targeted.

Rolls

Eldritch Blast vs Guard, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (8) + 6 = 14

1d10+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

1d6 : (1) = 1

Jan 10, 2017 4:03 pm
Magnus lashes out at the nearest guard.
OOC:
see above post for attack and damage
Jan 10, 2017 4:26 pm
Leilara reaches out with a suddenly electrified hand.
OOC:
Advantage on the attack if they have metal armor, and they can't take reactions on hit either.

Rolls

Shocking Grasp Attack - (1d20+6)

(18) + 6 = 24

Shocking Grasp Attack ADV (wearing metal armor?) - (1d20+6)

(7) + 6 = 13

Shocking Grasp Damage - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Jan 11, 2017 12:00 pm
Magnus cleanly kills the female guard with a slash of his sword. The male guard ducks out of the way from Yras's eldritch blast, but gets electrocuted by Leilara's shocking grasp.

The male guard and the two other guards in the main office are still alive.
OOC:
Yrsa, roll initiative for the party!

Rolls

Guard Initiative - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Yujo Initiative - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Jan 11, 2017 3:51 pm
OOC:
Party initiative!

Rolls

Initiative! - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Jan 14, 2017 10:57 am
OOC:
Sorry, been busy with work. Combat order:
-Guards
-Yujo
-Party
The male guard swivels around at the sounds of combat, and attacks Magnus after seeing him pull his sword from the female guard's body. However, Magnus easily deflects the spear thrust.

The two guards to the rear raise their crossbows and fire at Yrsa. One bold grazes Yrsa's arm, while the other embeds itself painfully into her leg.

Yujo moves to the back of the office, behind the guards. She pulls out a dagger (probably took it off Leak) and bides her time while the two guards reload their crossbows.
OOC:
Party's move!

Rolls

Male Guard Attack - (1d20+3)

(5) + 3 = 8

Rear thug shots - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

1d20+2 : (19) + 2 = 21

1d20+2 : (14) + 2 = 16

Bolt damage (Both hit) - (2d10)

(71) = 8

Jan 14, 2017 5:43 pm
Yrsa hobbles forward to the male guard, grimacing as the pain in her leg shoots up her spine. She pirouettes to bring both blade and whip across the man.

Rolls

Scimitar vs Guard, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d6+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (11) + 6 = 17

1d6+4 : (2) + 4 = 6

1d6 : (4) = 4

Whip vs Guard, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d4+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (5) + 6 = 11

1d4+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

1d6 : (3) = 3

Jan 14, 2017 5:52 pm
Easily parrying the sloppy thrust of the guard's spear, Magnus shoves the weapon out wide, stepping up close to the guard and stabs his blade towards the man's stomach.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (14) + 5 = 19

1d8+5 : (4) + 5 = 9

Jan 15, 2017 11:51 am
Magnus's and Yrsa's combined attacks kill the male guard. It's overkill, really. Two of Bhjurba's men remain in the back office.
Jan 15, 2017 4:05 pm
Leilara fires off a small tongue of flame as she moves away from melee range.

Rolls

Fire Bolt - (1d20+6)

(7) + 6 = 13

Damage - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Jan 16, 2017 11:51 pm
Leilara's spell singes the cheek of one of the guards, but doesn't seem to do all that much damage. The unhurt guard (we'll call him Guard 2) reloads his crossbow, but then drops it and runs back up the stairwell. Guard 1 (the one that got burnt) picks up the dropped crossbow and takes a shot at Leilara, but the bolt whizzes right back her head and breaks upon the dungeon walls.
OOC:
From what I can tell, Magnus and Yrsa are in the back of the dungeon, while Leilara is near the office.
Still slinking in the back, Yujo also attempts to slip out unnoticed.

Rolls

Guard 1 Crossbow - (1d20+2)

(11) + 2 = 13

Yujo Stealth - (1d20+3)

(18) + 3 = 21

Jan 17, 2017 1:59 pm
Magnus moves away from the downed guard, going for the one with the crossbow.
OOC:
I'll dash if my regular movement can't get me far enough. Otherwise, I will attack.

Rolls

Attack! - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (5) + 5 = 10

1d8+5 : (1) + 5 = 6

Jan 17, 2017 3:44 pm
"Oh no you DON'T!" Leilara yells out as bolts fly out of her fingers towards the guard that's attempting to escape.
OOC:
I'm PRETTY sure I still have level 1 spell slots, but I need to go back and make sure at some point... I think I've only used a Sleep or two and the Phantasmal Force on the ooze...
Last edited January 17, 2017 3:44 pm

Rolls

Wild Magic Surge! - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Magic Missile Damage - (3d4+3)

(143) + 3 = 11

Jan 17, 2017 5:05 pm
Yrsa whips her head around, sighting down the guard that is running out. Her baleful eye marks her target and she unleashes an eldritch blast at the man.
OOC:
Transferring Hex to Guard2, affecting Dexterity
Last edited January 17, 2017 5:06 pm

Rolls

Eldritch Blast vs Guard2, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d10+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (15) + 6 = 21

1d10+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

1d6 : (4) = 4

Jan 19, 2017 9:47 pm
Guard 1 ducks out of the way of Magnus's strike, but Yrsa and Leilara land hits on the escaping guard. Due to getting blasted with several spells, Guard two loses his footing and falls back down the stairs. Aggravated, he abandons the idea of escape and attacks Magnus with a mace.

Guard 1 also attacks Magnus, seeing as he just tried to chop his head off.

Magnus deflects almost every strike, but the guards' teamwork allowed them to find one opening.
OOC:
These guys get two attacks each, so lots of d20s

Rolls

Guard 1 Attacks (Adv - Pack Tactics) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4, 1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (17) + 4 = 21

1d20+4 : (17) + 4 = 21

1d20+4 : (13) + 4 = 17

1d20+4 : (12) + 4 = 16

Guard 2 Attacks (Adv - Pack Tactics) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4, 1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

1d20+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

1d20+4 : (12) + 4 = 16

1d20+4 : (12) + 4 = 16

Damage - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Jan 20, 2017 3:32 am
Magnus growls as an attack slips through his defenses, enemy blade digging into his leg. Sweeping his shield out in a wide arc to force the opponent to disengage his blade, Magnus follows up with his sword coming in right behind the shield, hoping to catch his opponent by surprise. He then reverses the momentum of his sword and brings it back across again.
OOC:
Using Action Surge to make another attack
Last edited January 20, 2017 3:34 am

Rolls

Attack! - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (8) + 5 = 13

1d8+5 : (7) + 5 = 12

Attack 2! - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (20) + 5 = 25

1d8+5 : (1) + 5 = 6

Critical! - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Jan 20, 2017 6:14 am
Yrsa stows her whip and draws a handaxe before stepping up to maintain her attacks on Guard2. She leads with her scimitar, slicing across and following through with the blade of the axe.

Rolls

Scimitar vs Guard2, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d6+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (2) + 6 = 8

1d6+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

1d6 : (4) = 4

Handaxe vs Guard2, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d6+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (17) + 6 = 23

1d6+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

1d6 : (6) = 6

Jan 20, 2017 7:51 am
OOC:
@Magnus - Specify which guard you are attacking, you might end up killing one
Jan 20, 2017 1:52 pm
OOC:
Sorry, going for the one that's already injured
Jan 20, 2017 3:43 pm
Leilara blasts some more flame at whichever guard is left, prioritizing the one that tried to flee if they're not down yet.

"Take that!"
OOC:
Nice!
Last edited January 20, 2017 3:43 pm

Rolls

Fire Bolt Attack - (1d20+6)

(20) + 6 = 26

Fire Bolt Damage - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Fire Bolt Crit! - (1d10)

(4) = 4

Jan 29, 2017 6:55 pm
Magnus succeeds in catching the guard by surprise, and the guard's blood sprays across the dungeon wall.

Yrsa's scimitar gets stopped by the final guard's armor, but she manages to land a hit with her handaxe. Leilara's firebolt also connects, but it's a bit different than usual. The fire bolt strikes the guard and erupts in molten fire that splashes onto nearby objects. The office furniture, some copses, Leak, and the last guard all catch on fire.

The last guard makes a last ditch effort to take one of you out, and attacks Yrsa.
OOC:
@Leilara - I'd keep a spellslot counter thing on your character sheet to keep track. Like this:
Spell Slots
Level 1: 1/3
Level 2: 0/2

Rolls

Guard Fire Damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Guard Attacks - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

1d20+4 : (18) + 4 = 22

Damage - (1d6+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Jan 30, 2017 2:49 pm
On my way towards Leak to try and pat the fire out (somehow, still working on that plan), Leilara will give this guard a Shocking Poke.

Rolls

Shocking Grasp - (1d20+6)

(15) + 6 = 21

Shocking Grasp ADV (Metal Armor) - (1d20+6)

(5) + 6 = 11

Shocking Grasp Damage - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Jan 31, 2017 6:56 pm
If, after Leilara's attack, the guard is still up, Magnus will attempt to take him down.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+5, 1d8+5)

1d20+5 : (3) + 5 = 8

1d8+5 : (4) + 5 = 9

Jan 31, 2017 7:02 pm
Attempting to end the threat quickly, Yrsa slips in with her scimitar and handaxe, crossing the blades across the guard's body.
OOC:
Forgot to roll Concentration for Hex. If it fails, drop the Hex damage on any applicable hit this turn.
Last edited January 31, 2017 7:04 pm

Rolls

Scimitar vs Guard, Damage, Hex - (1d20+6, 1d6+4, 1d6)

1d20+6 : (13) + 6 = 19

1d6+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

1d6 : (6) = 6

Handaxe vs Guard, Damage, Hex - (1d20+4, 1d6+2, 1d6)

1d20+4 : (17) + 4 = 21

1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3

1d6 : (5) = 5

Concentration - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Feb 15, 2017 11:35 am
OOC:
I AM ALIVE. Life has allowed me to starting writing/posting again.
Leilara shocks the last guard by grabbing onto his arm, but he instinctively grabs back. His hands are locked in place due to the electric shock, and the two rotate in a sort of arm wrestling match amidst the flaming office furniture and Leak. Magnus attempts to end the fight with a decisive slash, but misses and smashes the desk instead. Finally, Yrsa slips in and slashes a cross onto the guard's back, killing him.

The party gains 85 XP each for routing their enemies!

With the last guard dead, combat is over. The room is quickly filling with smoke, but at least there's only so much left to burn. Tarl's sister snuck off somewhere during the fight, who knows where she went. The prisoners are still mulling about, and the ones that are still conscious look like they are in a state of shock.

Caulder is still most likely in the dungeon, there must be some clue to finding him.
Feb 16, 2017 6:22 pm
"Don't suppose anyone has a way to put out the fire?" asks Yrsa idly, backing away to the cell with the prisoners.

When she gets there, she turns and points to one of the conscious slaves. "You there!" she calls, to try and snap them out of their shock. "Where's Caulder?"
Feb 16, 2017 7:10 pm
"Not me," Magnus says, backing away from the flames.
Feb 16, 2017 7:34 pm
"'Fraid not... I'm mostly good at MAKING the fires."

Through coughs, Leilara puts her cloak around her mouth and nose and looks around for any item out of place that might indicate where Caulder went.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+1)

(10) + 1 = 11

Feb 18, 2017 11:26 am
The fire grows as it engulfs the desk completely, and Leak looks like he's knocked out from breathing in all the smoke. You reckon that it's be a good idea to come up with a story to explain this fire once the guards find out, maybe blaming Caulder or Yujo would work.

Leilara remembers what Leak said about his deal with Caulder. He was instructed to never let anyone in the dungeon if there was only one torch lit, but the two on the wall are clearly lit now.

The slave Yrsa interrogates is a young girl with messy, shoulder length hair.

"I dunno... He hasn't been back in a while, there's just been the monsters. Are you our new owners?"
Feb 18, 2017 6:20 pm
Yrsa ignores the question and asks one of her own, "Did he leave through the door, or is there another entrance? He brings the monsters in himself?"
Feb 18, 2017 11:54 pm
"He comes in through the hole in the wall, but the hole isn't always there."
Feb 21, 2017 1:24 am
The girl leads Yrsa to the end of the dungeon, closing her eyes and crying slightly as she steps over the dead guards on the floor. She points to a solid wall at the end of the dungeon. There's not much on the wall except a few torches, but it does seem like the ooze was on this wall at one point.

"I-it was here, but it's gone now."
Feb 21, 2017 1:44 am
Yrsa considers their options. "Leilara, Magnus, see if you can pull Leak out of that smoke," she says idly while she look at the wall.

She turns to look at the torches, then asks the girl, "Does Caulder snuff out the torch before he shows up, or after? And which torch?"
Feb 21, 2017 2:02 am
With a grunt, Magnus moves over and slings Leak over his shoulder and carries him away from the smoke.
Feb 21, 2017 6:07 pm
When Leilara realizes she's completely useless when Magnus is lifting, she goes over to the wall with Yrsa and starts to poke around, looking for signs of magic.

Rolls

Arcana - (1d20+1)

(11) + 1 = 12

Feb 22, 2017 10:45 am
The girl nods silently and nervously tugs on her rag clothing. She points to the torch on the left.

"I think that one. Can I go? The monsters will turn me into mush and eat me!"

Magnus braves the burning room after the flames slightly died down. Leaks clothing was aflame, so Magnus had to tear them off to stop any further injuries. He heads back into the main dungeon room with a naked, tied up Leak slung over his shoulder.

Leilara pokes around the wall to discover any arcane secrets. The dark, foreboding pressure inside her mind surges when she touches a certain section. Fighting through the headache, she determines that there's definitely a false wall here. Typically, these types of walls can be reset with a trigger or switch. Alternatively, one could brute force their way in, although that's not too stealthy.
Feb 22, 2017 4:25 pm
"Well you're definitely on the right track Yrsa. There's something fishy as a river about this wall here and it reeks of magic."

Leilara looks around for a blanket or something else to snuff out the light, grumbling all the while that she wished she knew more of the hand magic that wizards are always using for this kind of thing.
Feb 22, 2017 4:37 pm
Perhaps attuned to Leilara's trail of thought, Yrsa gives the barest of nods to the little girl and raises her hand. Spreading her fingers far apart, she gives a gentle push while whispering a slippery, slithering word. As her hand completes the gesture, a spectral copy is pushed forth. Yrsa wills her Mage Hand to smother the flames of the indicated torch.
Last edited February 22, 2017 4:37 pm
Feb 25, 2017 7:42 am
The torch is snuffed out with a sizzle and a section of the wall vanishes, revealing a simple looking wooden hatch that is awkwardly covering a dug out hole. The little girl Yrsa was speaking with makes a cry of fear and scuttles off back to the rest of the slaves in the cage.

You recall Caulder's mad scribblings in his journal. The uncovered edges of the hole uncovered by the hatch ooze madness, or maybe that's just your imagination.
Feb 25, 2017 4:41 pm
"It's our best lead yet," says Yrsa. "However, what should we do about them? Tarl would like to see them released."
Last edited February 25, 2017 4:42 pm
Feb 25, 2017 4:45 pm
"I'd see them released. They should be free for sure. Also, it's not like Bhjurba is going to deal with us NOW so we might as well make good with Tarl."
Feb 25, 2017 4:53 pm
Yrsa points out, "The fire and the battle are likely to attract some guards. We could try and escort them out the gates, make up some story about how they're infected by something?"
Feb 27, 2017 5:23 pm
Yrsa adds, "In fact, we could say that Caulder is responsible, and point the guards to the door. Hopefully that gets them to investigate, leaving us an opportunity to get these prisoners out. There's some truth to it, at the very least."

She turns to the prisoners. "What say you? We're willing to try and free you, return you to your people. But for it to work, we need your cooperation. I'm sure you prefer the other freed slaves outside, than whatever monstrosities will come through that door, or the monster dwarf that sits upstairs."

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(2) + 4 = 6

Mar 1, 2017 2:12 pm
Magnus waits patiently, Leak slung over his shoulder.
Mar 2, 2017 9:56 am
The slaves give scattered responses at first, but it doesn't take long for them to realize you aren't trying to screw them over in some way. Every slave either nods or gives verbal confirmation that they'll go along with whatever you say.
Mar 2, 2017 3:37 pm
Yrsa turns to Leilara and Magnus. "What do you think? They're all infected? Highly contagious?"
Mar 2, 2017 3:46 pm
"Would probably keep them from looking too closely. I say yes," Magnus agrees, shifting Leak's weight to his other shoulder, "What about this one?"
Mar 2, 2017 4:19 pm
"Give him to the guard. We'll say he worked with Caulder and tried to stop us from discovering their plot," says Yrsa. She adds with a shrug, "It's partly true, in any case."

Yrsa turns to the prisoners. "All right, we're going to get you out of here. We'll tell the guards that you've all been infected with something and are highly contagious, and urge them to let you out of the compound before everyone else gets sick. So do your best to be as decrepit as possible. Let's go, before the sun comes up and gives them more light to inspect you."
Mar 3, 2017 3:27 pm
"Perfect! And I can even help with this a bit more! Who wants to look EXTRA sick?" squeaks Leilara with a little too much excitement.

If she gets one or two volunteers, she wiggles her fingers to create small illusions of nasty-looking pustules near the eyes. If she doesn't, she picks one or two in the front and does it anyways.
OOC:
Minor Illusion to create some pentapox!
Mar 4, 2017 5:44 am
With the plan set, the party leads the slaves up the dungeon staircase. Most of the smoke has cleared out, but there's no avoiding the smell. The group makes it to the entrance hall before being confronted by a group of guards carrying buckets of water and large blankets soaked with water. The leader of the guards confronts the party.

"You three, what are you doing?! There's a fire, we need to put it out before we save any slaves!"
Mar 4, 2017 6:19 am
"Are you insane?!" Yrsa counters. "We've got to get 'em outta here before they infect us all!" She ushers the slaves forward with rapid intent, directing Magnus and Leilara to keep them moving. She speaks quickly, trying to overwhelm the guard captain with the sense of urgency. "Caulder's been doing something to them down there! Experiments gone wrong, the whole thing's messed up! You get that fire out, we'll get rid of these guys!"

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Mar 7, 2017 11:52 am
OOC:
Gonna be busy this month, gonna squeeze out posts when I can
"Oh gods! Lets go, don't drop the bucket!"

The guards react with great haste and blow past the group to put out what remains of the fire downstairs.

...

After leaving the tower almost all of the slaves are extremely relieved, it's obvious they are because of their expressions. However, they do still stick to the 'act sick' plan that was detailed to them. Arriving at the gate, the party is once again met by Bhjurba's guards. This one has a rather large nose and a nasal voice.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold up, you don't want to go out there. It's a warzone, remember? We can't let you leave with these slaves."
Mar 7, 2017 3:48 pm
"These slaves are useless to us!" claims Yrsa. "Caulder's been doing something to them, infecting them, trying to destroy us from the inside! We have to get them out before we're all dead!"

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Mar 7, 2017 3:54 pm
"You'd better let us through unless you want to be infected," Magnus says to the guards, "It may already be too late!"
OOC:
Granting advantage to Yrsa's deception?
Mar 7, 2017 8:59 pm
OOC:
Yeah, Yrsa can roll with adv if you help
Mar 7, 2017 9:00 pm
Yrsa nods and gestures to some of the faces of the slaves, trying to promote the same sense of urgency that distracted the first group of guards.

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Mar 8, 2017 2:13 pm
Leilara continues to layer on the small illness illusions, which hopefully lend credence to Yrsa's words.

You do not have permission to post in this thread.