The Coast Way | Thread | Gamers Plane

Jun 20, 2021 2:42 am

The dawn is especially cruel this morning.

After a night of fleeing over rough terrain and through shadows, rain, and trauma, the party finds a sheltered copse of trees to rest for a moment and decide their next course of action. Their goal is the Friendly Arm Inn, but without knowing quite where it is, or where they are currently, they have some thinking to do...

OOC:

A Survival check could give the party more information as to how to get where they want to go.

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 20, 2021 4:48 am

Re: The Coast Way

Holding a stitch in his side, Rift grumbles to himself in Draconic. This is not the adventure he had imagined! Battles of blood and bodies and noise and then running through the night, injured and exhausted. Who would ever choose this life?!

And he was pretty sure they were lost.

And half of them were going backwards and were probably going to die.

Why did they even form a group if they were just going to split up?

He is tired and hurt and frustrated. Maybe he doesn't want to do this anymore. He shouldn't even be here, right? Maybe it is all just a big mistake and he should find a way to get back home.

He flaps his wings, hovering just about the ground. Of course, he if hadn't come, he wouldn't have gotten the wings. He'd still be home with Mother and Father, and he'd be bored out of his mind while they told the same stories over and over again. The same stories that had made him want to have an adventure in the first place...

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 21, 2021 3:56 am

Re: The Coast Way

As the group decides to split up, I take it upon myself to show whoever would like to join me to the Friendly Arm Inn. I am still carrying Dieter’s corpse on Tulco since I haven’t decided what the next course of action should be.
Perhaps I should bring his body to his father, he would know what best to do.

Rolls

Survival roll - how to get to the inn - (1d20+3)

(18) + 3 = 21

Jabbbahut

Jun 21, 2021 2:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish lays a hand on the small dragons shoulder. "not quite the adventure I was going for either." He reaches down To his own clothing and feels the tear in his clothing where the arrow tor through. "best to take a break from this current one as soon as we can, right? Your wings would probably be a huge help with that," He says confidently as he gestures to the canopy. b]"between you and Runeson we should be able to figure out the best route to some help."[/b]

Speaking to the group,"With us being divided into two groups now we had best stick with Aiwes plan. It sounds like their is an inn close by and possibly a temple." With a glance to dieters body resting on the horse, Dieter does protecting his companions, I didn’t know him well, but that proves his valor Enough for me. I’m only hoping we can honor that sacrifice. I’m not as familiar with what magic that will require, but I assume since it’s some form of reviving that it’s time sensitive. Best to head off quickly and only rest if absolutely necessary." And anything you keep us moving and not dwelling on what just happened.

Looking towards Runeson "Any clues as to where to go now?@

Araklusta

Jun 21, 2021 3:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

In the vast, untamed wilderness that makes up the Western Heartlands, the Friendly Arm Inn stands as a beacon of civilization and safety. As such, it's a common stop for travelers, merchants, and caravans. Runeson may have even been there before. From what he and the others can tell, there are two ways to find it from where they are. The easiest way would be to travel west until they hit the Coast Way road and follow it north until they reach the inn. Once reaching the road, the going will be much easier and the party will for sure know where it's going. However, the group will also be much more visible, should anyone be pursuing them.

The more difficult way is to continue north until they find the river, and follow it to the northeast until they reach a large forest. Then either going through or around the forest will bring them to the Friendly Arm Inn. With so much wilderness travel and vague landmarks, it may very well be easy to get lost, and travel will be slower. But, should pursuit be coming, it should be easier to evade humanoid enemies.

And so the choice is the easy, fast path, or the slow and difficult one.

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jun 21, 2021 5:07 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter lays slumped across tulco’s back his unseeing eyes glazed over

Jabbbahut

Jun 21, 2021 5:52 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Judging by the look on everyone’s faces I assume we’d rather not find anymore unwanted company along the way. If that’s the case let’s stick to the woods rather than the road. Not sure if that’s safer or not, but if it’s peace of mind I’ll take it. In case of pursuers I volunteer to stand in the back. I suggest our best guides be up front. Runeson with his horse in the middle. Any thoughts?"

Sheemish says this matter of factor, but not in a commanding tone. It’s more out of necessity to keep moving and get farther away from any chance of pursuit.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 21, 2021 10:34 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I can try to navigate," Stella volunteers tiredly. She opens her tome to a copy of a map of the area she made.

Looking over the map, gauging the angle of the sun, and doing a few calculations in her head, she settles on a direction and leads the way.

Last edited June 21, 2021 10:36 pm

Rolls

Survival (Adv) - (1d20+3, 1d20+3)

1d20+3 : (10) + 3 = 13

1d20+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 22, 2021 12:09 am

Re: The Coast Way

"that sounds like a plan. Rift, use your wings to scout ahead, checking back in ever so often. We may also have you check behind us to see if we’re being followed or leaving too clear of a trail. Stella, if you would navigate. I will be with Tulco and Dieter, and Sheemish if you would follow behind. We want to leave as little a trail as possible to follow."
With a look at our little party to see if they have any questions I head off in the direction we need to go.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 22, 2021 12:17 am

Re: The Coast Way

"We don't want a flying beacon to show pursuers where we are, Stella warns Rift. "You might blend into a black sky, but you'll stick out during the day. Stay in the trees."

Last edited June 22, 2021 12:18 am

Araklusta

Jun 22, 2021 2:29 am

Re: The Coast Way

The group starts off. Stella's calculations have the party moving in the right direction, and with Rift able to fly and spot various landmarks, the party is able to make confident progress.

Copses of trees amid rolling hills. It gets hotter under the rising sun, which is only augmented by the humidity. Gnats and other flying pests go for the eyes and mouth, always seeking liquid to drink. Mosquitoes, bugs unknown in Icewind Dale, bite and suck the blood of the travelers and generally make nuisances of themselves. Deer look up and leap away, and squirrels watch group curiously, while birds of all kinds sing their songs.

It is around midday that the group sees something truly awe-inspiring.

Icewind Dale is known in part for its Reghed 'barbarian' tribes that follow the caribou herds across the frozen tundra. What the group sees here is no caribou, for this beast must be five times larger, with broad antlers that spread nearly as wide as it is tall.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c5/af/4e/c5af4eef25e0eb6d8b5fe231d79ce29a.jpg

Muscled and majestic, with a thick mane of brownish-white hair, this giant deer stands tall as it watches the group. It shows no sign of fear, for what could the party do to harm it? Even large Tulco looks like a small pony next to this creature. There seems to be a spark of intelligence and percipience in its eyes.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 22, 2021 3:14 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella would have been fascinated by all of the wildlife, were it not for the growing exhaustion, the focus required to navigate, and pressure of deadly pursuers.

And the mosquitos. Not quite so fascinating at the moment.

Stella glances up from her tome and freezes at the sight of the enormous deer, her jaw dropping with shock and wonder.

Beast or fey? Stella wonders. While she's tempted to take some notes, she doubts it would do much to capture the marvelous creature before her.

"Do you...understand common?" she asks tentatively, hoping it's friendly. "Elvish?" she asks in Elvish. "How about Druidic?"

Perhaps Sylvan... She didn't know any Sylvan.

OOC:

If it doesn't respond to any of that, she'll cast speak with animals

[ +- ] Speak with Animals

Last edited June 22, 2021 3:15 am

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 22, 2021 3:22 am

Re: The Coast Way

I motion for everyone to stop and calmly wait for Stella, our resident guide, and try to remember if I have heard of any creature like this before.

Rolls

History - (1d20+1)

(15) + 1 = 16

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 22, 2021 4:38 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift knows a little about wild creatures, but he's never seen anything like this magnificent beast. He knows he doesn't want to fight it (for several reasons). Maybe they should just go around?

While the others try and communicate with the creature, he looks around them, half hoping for a clue or sign that will tell them whether or not they should be running away.

Rolls

Perception check - (1d20+4)

(10) + 4 = 14

Araklusta

Jun 22, 2021 3:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Try as he might, Rift can't see anything threatening. The birds continue to chirp, the breeze provides some comfort against the heat. There's even a small bunny that's stopped to watch the proceedings.

In response to Stella's questions the giant stag tosses its head and stamps a cloven hoof. It would seem that it does indeed understand Common and Elvish.

Runeson recalls stories told of lost travelers who were visited by such an animal. In every tale it was a portent of good fortune, or the precursor to some momentous event. But the tales hardly do justice to this creature!

Jabbbahut

Jun 22, 2021 5:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Please," Sheemish says with a humble respectful Dwarfish bow "we are not trying to intrude, we are seeking shelter and help for a fallen friend." Sheemish stays in a bow, head lowered before this majestic creature.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 22, 2021 8:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Following Sheemish’s lead, I too bow and ask for help as well, pointing towards Dieter’s body.

Rolls

Persuasion - Deer, be a dear! - (1d20+4)

(9) + 4 = 13

Araklusta

Jun 22, 2021 10:45 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The deer listens attentively as the group pleads their case. Then it turns to leave. After a half-dozen steps it turns its head to look back at the adventurers, as though beckoning them to follow.

Jabbbahut

Jun 22, 2021 11:28 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish rides from his bow, Unless any of you have objections?" He whispers to the group. And then he steps forward following the creature.

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 22, 2021 11:41 pm

Re: The Coast Way

I follow the majestic creature, making sure to follow in its path as I don’t know how lenient it is on trespassers.

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 12:30 am

Re: The Coast Way

The great stag leads the group for several hours, until the group comes to a line of trees. As they approach, they can hear the sound of running water.

And arguing.

A strong, dramatic voice rings out. "Montaron, you are so AGGRAVATING! 'Tis disturbing to my demeanor!"

A gruff, heavily-accented voice responds. "Ye already be disturbed; now leave me be. Yer company be toil enough as is."

The stag stops just short of the treeline and turns to the group. Waiting.

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 23, 2021 5:09 am

Re: The Coast Way

Something about the deer is just comforting to Rift. He wants to sit by it and tell it stories from his life, maybe feed it some leaves or berries. Definitely not ride it though. That would be rude. Right?

Following it seems right, even though he has no idea where they are going. When they finally stop, the voices make Rift nervous again. He tries to peek through the trees, but doesn't want to get too far from his group. If the stag brought them here, it must be for a good reason.

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 2:44 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Peering through the trees, Rift can see two male figures. One is tall and overly skinny, dressed in green wizard's robes. The other is smaller than Rift, but stocky and dressed in dark leather, a short yet broad sword at his side.

"'Tis a wonder ye've lived as long as long as ye have, ye weasel," the short one shouts.

"Oh, speak no more lest you gorge my sweet tooth!" The skinny one's voice has changed from dramatic to sing-song.

"Ye make no sense!"

"You got us lost!"

"'Twas YOUR incessant chattering what got us lost!"

It seems as though the two might soon come to blows.

Jabbbahut

Jun 23, 2021 4:31 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Gentleman," Sheemish says stepping out of the woods, It sounds like you may have your own troubles, but we could really use some help!"

Last edited June 23, 2021 4:32 pm

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 4:46 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The wizard in green robes startles at Sheemish's entrance. "Mommy, no! I-" He cuts off the falsetto plea and clears his throat. "Help? Erm, yes. I have been known to help, on occasion."

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 4:50 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Bah, but ye wouldn't help a fly, Xzar." The shorter one, a scarred halfling, turns to Sheemish. "Normally I'd shirk any goody-goody work. But see here, we're a bit lost ourselves. So if ye can point us in the direction of Nashkell, mayhaps ol' Montaron can help ye."

OOC:

It doesn't take an expert in geography to know that if they're looking for Nashkell, they're VERY lost.

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 4:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Ah, but his voice is ambrosia, Montaron! Listen to its nectar!" Xzar begins dancing a solo pavan, apparently ignorant of the fact there is no music to be heard, let alone danced to.

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 23, 2021 4:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron sighs. "That mad wizard is off on one of his spells again. And I don't mean one with wiggling fingers or funny words."

The gruff halfling turns to Sheemish once more. "Well? What do ye need? Spit it out!"

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 23, 2021 11:38 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"We're headed for the Friendly Arm Inn," Stella speaks up, lifting her tome with the map sketch in it. "I'm pretty sure I know how to get us there from here. You'll probably have better luck making it to Nashkell from there than from here. You seem pretty knowledgeable, and I'm an aspiring wizard myself, so how about a trade of information?"

Mad perhaps...but a wizard doesn't become one without study, she reasoned. They were a fascinating pair.

"What do you know about this?"

Stella taps the air, leaving stars hanging in the air connected by thin, glowing lines. In moments, the humanoid constellation shimmers and melts into a small-scale illusion of Kregguk's armored killer. (Stella casts Minor Illusion)

"It attacked us, along with er...ogres, archers, aaaand a caster of some kind."

Last edited June 23, 2021 11:41 pm

Rolls

Persuasion, if needed - (1d20+1)

(7) + 1 = 8

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 2:00 am

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar pauses in his dance and examines the illusion. "Ah, you must be a storyteller." His voice is low and menacing, then immediately changes to slurred and boisterous. "Duh, tell me 'bout the raaabBITS!"

He waits expectantly and wide-eyed.

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 2:09 am

Re: The Coast Way

"A pox on ye, Xzar!" Montaron roughly elbows the wizard out of the way. "Bah! Looks to me like a sure killer. But we've nay seen any like him."

The halfling gestures up toward Dieter's corpse laid across Tulco's back. "Ye've come to an awful odd place to drop a body." He ponders that for a long moment, then nods appreciatively. "For sure, we can help each other out. We been to the Friendly Arm Inn. Good rooms. Better drink! Take us back there, and if we get along, we'll let ye in on the Nashkell job."

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 24, 2021 2:47 am

Re: The Coast Way

I take a liking to the rambunctious mage, his abrupt change in topics, and interesting view on the world.
"We have a deal." I say with a smile. "How did you get so lost yourselves?"

Jabbbahut

Jun 24, 2021 3:07 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish folds his arms and doesn't say anything more. While comical, it does not appear that the "jobs" in reference would be honest ones.

He glances at any "wares" these men may be bringing along- specifically looking to see if any of it appears stolen.

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 3:34 am

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar bows deeply to Runeson. "Well, you see, my friend Monty and I decided to look into this iron crisis problem." His cheerful voice drops to dismal by the end, and then he stage whispers, "Terribly bad for business, you know. Swords breaking, armor rusting, merchants squealing..." His hands come up to massage his temples. "Such incessant noise?! 'Tis such a pain behind the eyes!"

He flinches at his own voice, then looks at his hands in confusion. And then he points at Montaron and speaks in monotone: "It was his fault."

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 3:39 am

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron grumbles at Xzar's antics and excuses himself to go and sit by himself on a log. As the halfling turns his back, Sheemish notices several stitched areas on the back of his leather armor. The artificer is sure they were once slender holes that have since been sewn shut. Holes from a stabbing? Surely the wearer at the time wouldn't have survived such wounds.

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 24, 2021 4:53 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift is unsure what to make of these two strange men, but the crazy one makes him laugh. They would be good company along the road. Or at least good entertainment. Especially if they started fighting.

And they were looking into the iron crisis, like Little One had talked about at that tavern. Rift wishes that he'd looked more closely at that hat that made Little One so smart. If he had a hat like that, he'd be unstoppable!

He looks at the two strange men, wondering what their story is and if they have anything like the magic hat. But looking at them, it's pretty obvious that if they had anything cool, it would be front and center. And they are definitely exactly what they seem: helpful, but somewhat absurd friends who are lost on their way to an important job.

He smiles at them.

Last edited June 24, 2021 4:56 am

Rolls

Perception check for cool items/info - (1d20+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 2:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron catches sight of Rift's inquisitive stare. The halfling pointedly pulls out his short sword and begins sharpening it. Apparently he doesn't like being gawked at.

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 3:04 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The group settles down for the night a short distance away from the odd pair. It's a welcome chance to rest their weary bodies and properly care for wounds. They're careful to always have someone keeping watch.

Sheemish takes the first shift. It's mostly uneventful, except for the occasional glint of eyes shining out from the dark. From the height, he guesses its the giant stag providing additional guard.

Finally, at the end of Sheemish's shift, he hears the distinct sound of jostled metal. A few minutes later Aiwe, Wirrow, Ossein, and Imoen stumble into camp, and the party is reunited once more.

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jun 24, 2021 4:22 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter eyes stare up at the sky as if locked in a staring contest with some unseen being. He lays unmoving and unflinching literally dead to the world

.........

Last edited June 24, 2021 4:23 pm

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 24, 2021 5:01 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With the party settling in for the evening, Ossein takes some time to say goodbye and send thanks towards wherever Bert may be.

With that done, Ossein's focus now turns toward his new bearer trying to make a connection, get a feeling for their memories, name, unfinished business, weapon preference, favorite activities, or anything really.

Ossein also takes time to change his form to match that if his bearer's weapon of choice. His form melts down from a small mace, elongating and briefly turning into a javelin before curving back and settling on a shortbow. The shortbow seems oddly worn. A large crack nearly splits the bow like the next pull will certainly snap it. The wood looks sun bleached and splintered. Remnants of blue paint flecks sporadically still cling to parts of the bow, mostly towards the tips. It's hard to imagine this bow is a magical sentient weapon.

Rolls

Investigation for memories - (1d20+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 5:30 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Ossein quickly discovers that his new 'friend' is far las amenable than Bert. The hobgoblin zombie doesn't seem to want anything to do with Ossein, though it is compelled to follow his orders. The only memories he can get from the thing are visualizations of rather rude goblinoid insults.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 24, 2021 7:19 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë looks uneasily at the two members camped a distance off. She decides to say nothing. The rest of the group are smart enough to be wary of strangers while on the run from assassins and ambushers.

She pauses, obviously struggling to decide if she should rest, or make the party continue. Finally she relents and lays Keggruk down, her muscles screaming at the effort required to keep the massive armoured man from hitting the ground hard.

"I'll take next watch," she murmurs, and sits by the fire.

Aiwë spends her watch with her eyes on the trees, and her handpan drum on her lap. The lilting murmur of Elvish lullabies and the barest music from the metal drum drifts through camp, soothing stressed minds and muscles alike.

[ +- ] Song of Rest

As the others wake early in the morning they find that Aiwë woke first, and has been busy. Keggruk has been relieved of his armour and wrapped carefully in his bedroll. She has done the same for Dieter, making the two bodies a little less obtrusive to the party and more protected from the elements. Aiwë carries her pack, Keggruk's pack, and Keggruk himself, and strings a makeshift package of Keggruk's armour tied carefully in his cloak around Archer's shoulders.

"Let me know if he gets tired," she tells Ossein. "...Does he get tired?"

She turns to the group. Her eyes are dull and her manner placid. Not words anyone would guess could be applied to Aiwë. "Let's eat while we walk. There's a long way to go, get."

Last edited June 24, 2021 7:22 pm

Imoen

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 7:26 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen is glad to wake up and greet her friends. "Gooood morning! Hi, Stella! It's so good to see you! I wish we could sink into that hotpool again. Oh, my poor feet..."

She ignores Dieter's corpse, other than to glance at it once and wipe away a tear. She seems determined to have a good time with her friends.

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 7:30 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Oddly enough, Imoen is joined by Xzar in her cheerful greetings. The mage skips about the encampment, beaming at everyone. "Smiles, everyone, smiles! This is like some great fantasy!" This morning his accent is rather nasal.

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 7:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron grumbles at Aiwe's declaration that they'll eat breakfast on the march. In that, at least, he seems like a normal halfling. But with everyone else starting to move and prepare, he's left with little choice but to follow their lead or be left behind. Decision made, he quickly and efficiently breaks camp.

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 7:36 pm

Re: The Coast Way

OOC:

We'll need a Survival check to get going! DC 13, adv, from whoever wants to lead!

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 24, 2021 9:41 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow wakes up feeling rather well, all things considered. She'd been afraid Aiwe would push them all further last night, and while Wirrow normally preferred the night, she also preferred to stop travelling when exhaustion reared its head.

She doesn't argue with any of Aiwe's calls for food or travel, though it is certainly disconcerting to see the girl acting so out of character. Hopefully they'd be able to fix the issue of Keggruk's death sooner rather than later and that would snap her out of it. Wasn't that the Runeson paladin's idea for taking Dieter's body with them? Wirrow can't remember exactly, given that she tends to avoid him.

Wirrow grabs her stuff and is ready to leave and lead, since no one else seems the type to be able to do it. Except Aiwe and Stella, but Aiwe was a bit distracted, and Stella was probably better at night. There was also the benefit that if she spent the whole time guiding, she'd have an excuse to not talk to anyone. The two odd individuals who seemed to have also invited themselves along for the journey... she'd be keeping an eye on them when she could.

Last edited June 24, 2021 9:56 pm

Rolls

Survival (Navigation once more) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

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

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 10:09 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The group heads out, hugging the river eastward. Aside from some large hoofprints in the dirt, there's no sign of the giant stag. The morning goes well, and with Wirrow at the lead they make good time.

Imoen practically skips along, spending a little bit of time with everyone except Montaron, who keeps her away with venomous glares. The stocky halfling keeps to himself, though he seems to also be keeping a wary eye out for monsters or other threats. And Xzar talks nearly as much as Imoen, sometimes to specific people, but often to nobody in particular.

"The trees move. Do you not see it?!"

"I've never liked the sunlight. 'Tis just too bright."

"Ahh yes, the chatter of friends and compatriots! Does it not warm the cockles?"

It is around midday that Wirrow and Montaron, at the same time, notice smoke from a cooking fire up ahead. "Well? Who's gonna check it out? My blade yearns for its daily dose!"

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 24, 2021 10:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The previous night, Stella was incredibly relieved at Wirrow and Aiwë's return. Seeing Kregguk's body, it now made more sense why she left. But comets and meteors, did Aiwë carry the orog and his full plate armor all this way?

She was concerned at Imoen's arrival, but her cheer did seem to infect Stella. Normally Aiwë did that, but...she wouldn't be herself for quite some time, Stella feared.

Quote:

It is around midday that Wirrow and Montaron, at the same time, notice smoke from a cooking fire up ahead. "Well? Who's gonna check it out? My blade yearns for its daily dose!"

"We are not going to kill random people out here," Stella scolds quietly. "Though I do think it'd be wise for you, Wirrow, to scout ahead in case they are dangerous."

Last edited June 24, 2021 10:35 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 24, 2021 10:38 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"We go around," Aiwë says. "Far around. We don't want to be seen by anyone." She glances sideways at the two strange men. Where had they even come from? At least they with with them and following, instead of running of to tell others about them or leading them into a trap.

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 10:47 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron looks disappointed. "But there ain't even none of them Flamin' Fists around..." he mutters. He turns to meet Aiwe's glance. "And if this fire be made by that armored one? 'Twould be better to know, no?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 24, 2021 10:50 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë opens her mouth to say no, but stops. If it is their pursuers, they may need to change course more than just a wide arc. "Yes," she sighs.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 24, 2021 10:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Flaming fists?" Stella asks Montaron with a cocked eyebrow. "What do you mean? Like...martial artists that wield fire, or like...flying, combustible, disembodied hands? And are they usually around?"

Last edited June 24, 2021 10:55 pm

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 24, 2021 10:59 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The grumpy halfling stares at Stella for a long minute. "Ain't from around here, then. Baldur's Gate's standing army of mercenaries. They're a sour bunch, policin' the city and places about." He snorts and then spits a green wad into the dirt between Stella's boots. "There be an outpost of 'em at the Inn, so ye'll see soon enough."

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 12:56 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Careful where you're spitting." Wirrow gives a sidelong glower at the unsavory man, before turning to her friends. "I'll go on ahead to look, then. Should I come back here, or are you going to be moving on regardless?"

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 1:17 am

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron scowls at Wirrow's reprimand. "I warrant your attention?! Oh frabjous day, callooh callay!" His sarcasm is overly blunt. His eyes narrow dangerously. "Leave me be, lest your head leave yer neck."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 25, 2021 1:19 am

Re: The Coast Way

"We'll stay. Come back quickly."

Aiwë turns to Montaron. "You," she growls, orcish accent returning thick, "will be civil and palatable. Care for your own neck before you eye anyone else's."

Last edited June 25, 2021 1:24 am

Rolls

Youre the one thats outnumbered and Im out of patience, buddy (intimidation) - (1d20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 1:31 am

Re: The Coast Way

"I'm afraid he doesn't bathe often enough to be 'palatable', my dear. You ask too much of poor Monty." Xzar pats the halfling brute on the top of the head.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 1:32 am

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Leave me be, lest your head leave yer neck."

"Hmf." Wirrow turns away, muttering. "L̶̙͆e̸͌͜a̷̤̔v̶̞̚e̵͔̊ ̴͙͝h̷̝͝e̴͙͋r̷̠͘ ̶͖̂ȁ̵̝l̷̛̫o̶̥̓n̸̻͗ȇ̶̟,̴̻͑ ̶̜̅l̴͚͒e̵͕̽s̸͎̾t̸̩͘ ̸̫͒y̴͕̅o̴̧͑ṵ̷̋ ̷͈̎g̷̗͑e̴͈̐t̵̰̃ ̵͓̋ÿ̸̦ò̷̭ű̸̺r̴̰͝ ̷̭̓t̶͉̏h̴͔̐r̶͉̓o̸̫͂a̴̢̕t̷͕͗ ̸̤̂r̴͚̆ĭ̵̻p̸̛̫p̶̻͌ë̶̝́d̵̥̈́ ̵̱̓o̴̖͆u̴͇̽t̷̨̊.̴̩̒"

She then feels a vague bit of magic wash over her, and she gives a nod and a faint smile to Aiwe before continuing on her way.

Last edited June 25, 2021 1:33 am

Rolls

Stealthing once we're away - (1d20+7)

(13) + 7 = 20

Bardic Inspiration for good measure - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 1:35 am

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron glares venomous daggers up at Xzar. "Do not make light of me! My purpose is greater than you can imagine!"

He shrugs away from both wizard and bard, but not without muttering to Aiwe:

"Sleep lightly, taskmaster."

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 1:37 am

Re: The Coast Way

Not really being part of the conversation, and hopefully overlooked, Ossein has his bearer pull out two empty opaque vials from a satchel. The bearer the proceeds to scoop up various slowly dripping fluids off himself into and filling the vials. They're then corked.

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 1:51 am

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow silently makes her way forward, the shadows of the trees playing across her as she slips from cover to cover. She’s nearing the campfire when she hears a *slap* and something that can only be cursing, though she doesn’t know the language. It all becomes apparent, however, when she looks to the source of the noise and discovers a goblin beset by mosquitoes. The little green guy is about 20 feet away, nearly hidden in the brush, apparently neglecting his sentry duty.

Now knowing what to look for, Wirrow notices several more goblins passing through the trees ahead of her. From the jugs they’re carrying, they look to be heading to the river to gather water.

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 2:00 am

Re: The Coast Way

Standing up, they amble over to Aiwe.

"Hey girl, I know this must be a tough time for you, and this probably isn't the best time, but I figured you need to know. See, back when we were leaving Candlekeep and we were being searched, your father Keggruk gave me this satchel to hide from the guards. Based on the fact that they were searching for magical items I'm certain these vials are filled with very potent, and possibly illegal magical potions. I'm certain they're worth quite a lot of money. Since you're his kin, I'm giving these to you. See?"

The Archer, with two vials in his fist dips the fist into the satchel as if to pull out some vials. Then as his arm swings to give them to Aiwe, the zombie lets go of them. They drop to the floor and klink as they bounce towards the two sketchy guys.

"Oops, clumsy zombie, could to two give those to me?"

The Archer then hands over the satchel to Aiwe.

Last edited June 25, 2021 2:01 am

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 25, 2021 2:01 am

Re: The Coast Way

As tensions rise, Stella gets nervous.

"Well..." she finally says. "While she's scouting ahead, maybe we could compare notes!" she says, turning to Xzar. "You're a wizard, right? I've only got some scribblings of some rituals down, but I do know a few unique spells," she tries, then throws out some names of spell schools and arcane jargon.

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 2:17 am

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar is happy to converse with Stella about magic. "Ah yes, I remember your little cantrip from yesterday. I'm afraid I never quite mastered that trick, though I do have my own." He holds out a hand, palm up, and three small green lights in the shape of skulls begin spinning and dancing in haphazard fashion (Xzar casts Dancing Lights). The pacing and rhythm are somehow uncomfortable to watch, though Xzar has a happy smile on his face.

Leaving the lights to continue their mad dance, he pulls out his own spellbook to show to Stella. On the cover is a yet another stylized skull embossed into the green leather. Before Xzar can open the tome, however, Ossein makes his move...

Quote:

The vials drop to the floor and klink as they bounce towards the two sketchy guys.

"Oops, clumsy zombie, could you two give those to me?"

Xzar gives the zombie a double-take, then grinning like an idiot, picks up both vials (Montaron shows no sign of wanting to pick up his). "What a beautiful specimen!" The mage walks up to Ossein and the Archer. "I'm sure you don't mind if I..." He begins feeling and prodding the zombie, even going so far as to dab a bit of the skinless animate's juices onto his tongue. He shivers with delight. "Truly, necromancy is the most rewarding of arts!"

He rests a hand over where the liver should be. "Now this would be good with a nice Chianti and some fava beans..."

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 3:29 am

Re: The Coast Way

Leaving just as carefully as she came, Wirrow returns to the party and their undesirable tagalongs a few minutes later. She walks over to Aiwe, reporting in her quiet voice. "Goblin camp. They keep going back and forth from the river. At least it's not them."

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 3:39 am

Re: The Coast Way

Seeing the tension rising between the newcomers and the rest of the group I decide to talk to Montentary about what he was looking for before getting terribly lost. I also do this to create a buffer of sorts between the groups.

Rolls

Insight - diffuse the situation building up - (1d20+1)

(16) + 1 = 17

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 4:35 am

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron seems to be in a particularly ornery mood when Runeson approaches him. "What part of 'I'm a loner' do ye not understand?!" Despite standing only about half Runeson's height, he looks muscular enough to hold his own in a contest of strength. Eventually, however, Runeson manages to calm him down. "Bah. I been tasked with learnin' more about this iron crisis. Them who sent me - don't ye ask! - paired me with that idiot mage. Tried to take a shortcut down south to Nashkell, an' his prattling cost me my bearings."

He kicks a rock, hard. "And now here we be."

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 5:10 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift has been watching the hobgoblin since it joined the camp. People are calling it Ossien, but the large smelly fellow who got his head chopped off was Ossien, right? He's pretty sure he's never seen the nasty-looking hob before.

And why are people insisiting on hauling around dead bodies? That's just weird. Lay them to rest, burn their bodies, eat them, anything but drag them around. Yuck.

While the others are talking, Rift goes through his pack, looking for something to occupy himself. He packed the bag himself, so he should know exactly what is in it, but maybe he left himself a surprise. He certainly didn't remember packing his daggers, after all.

Digging around, he uncovers a couple new weapons, several changes of clean clothes, a decent sized bag of coins, and nicely wrapped packages of food. He opens one and the heavenly smell overwhelms him for a moment. He looks back and forth between the bag and the food. It's almost as if someone packed this bag for his exact situation... but that would be an amazing coincidence.

He looks up at the rest of the group and whispers to himself, "I don't even know where this cherry pie came from."

Last edited June 25, 2021 5:11 am

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 5:20 am

Re: The Coast Way

I explain that I understand his frustrations, and that his emotions are valid, but also that… "It seems like being ‘a loner’ with such a gruff and abrasive demeanor while being paired with a very chaotic and erratic mage for this task might not be conducive to getting the information and help you want or need. And particularly when it comes to this group of tight knit friends." I go on to explain just a bit of the group dynamics that I have seen and how tensions are running high because of it. I suggest that, "Perhaps a change in tactics, becoming more supportive and helpful, might be more useful in getting results?"

Last edited June 25, 2021 5:22 am

Rolls

Persuasion - less gruff = more helpful - (1d20+4)

(16) + 4 = 20

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 25, 2021 2:02 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Hey girl, I know this must be a tough time for you, and this probably isn't the best time, but I figured you need to know. See, back when we were leaving Candlekeep and we were being searched, your father Keggruk gave me this satchel to hide from the guards. Based on the fact that they were searching for magical items I'm certain these vials are filled with very potent, and possibly illegal magical potions. I'm certain they're worth quite a lot of money. Since you're his kin, I'm giving these to you. See?"

Aiwë takes the satchel numbly. She fishes out a vial and uncorks it. She recognizes the smell immediately. The other vials are the same. "What? These aren't potions, it's blood." She pours the slodgy contents of the vial in her hand on the forest floor as Wirrow approaches. "Why was he carrying these? You can't even eat this, it's gone off. He knows that blood would go bad really fast here where it's so..." she looks up as Wirrow gives her quick report. "...warm."

The look Aiwë gives Wirrow is not a comforting one. Eyes wide and eyebrows low, with sudden shocking understanding.

"Let's go around the goblins," Aiwë says, looking Wirrow in the eye with thoughts elsewhere. A number of things she hadn't thought much of make sudden sense. "Hard to know how many there will be if this is their camp. More walking is better than stopping to tend wounds."

"While we walk," Aiwë tells Wirrow in low Orcish, "we can talk." She dumps the rest of the rancid bloody vials onto the ground, before prestidigitating the mess clean.

Last edited June 25, 2021 3:25 pm

Rolls

Investigation - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 3:04 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Ye goody-goodies make me sick!" Montaron complains, but for all his grouching he appears to be listening to Runeson. At the end of the lesson he gives a curt nod and tries to put into practice what he's learned.

The dour fellow stomps up to Rift to make small talk. "I hate the woods," he remarks. "Prey be so much easier to find in the city." Apparently satisfied at his efforts, Montaron concludes: "Now give me some of yer pie."

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 5:25 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The bloodthirsty halfling may have been whining about being sick, but Wirrow looks momentarily ill in the face of Aiwe and the bloody vials. Her threatening gaze and words seem to affect the pale recluse far worse than Montaron's threats.

Quote:

"While we walk," Aiwë tells Wirrow in low Orcish, "we can talk."

Wirrow nods stiffly, a stark controlled contrast to the way her eyes blink and flick to and fro every few seconds. She doesn't meet Aiwe's eyes, and it's clear the only reason she's agreeing to talk is because there's no way she can avoid talking about it. Her underlying tension reminds Aiwe of an animal, trapped or cornered on one of the tribe's hunts.

Araklusta

Jun 25, 2021 6:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The party sets out leaving the river in order to make a wide arc around the goblin camp. Their caution takes time, but at least they avoid any more casualties on this fateful trip. Montaron complains a bit at leaving 'easy prey' behind, but Xzar doesn't seem to mind the lack of bloodshed. Between Xzar and Imoen there's plenty of chatter among the group.

It's about midafternoon when they reach the edge of a forest. Looking at her map and notes, Wirrow thinks it's only about 10 miles through the dense trees to get to the Friendly Arm Inn. A short distance to the west should be the main road, which is supposed to curve around the edge of this forest. Sticking to their previous plan of avoiding the road, they enter the thick forest.

OOC:

Let's have a DC 15 Survival check w/ advantage. That's probably Wirrow!

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 9:25 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow, seeing the opportunity to avoid the confrontation for at least while longer, throws herself into the busy role of navigating once again. After all, she can't be expected to talk to Aiwe and do that at the same time...

Last edited June 25, 2021 9:28 pm

Rolls

Nav (You think I would fail one of these times) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

1d20+4 : (14) + 4 = 18

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 25, 2021 9:39 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow thinks wrong. Seeing that Wirrow is doing just fine, Shelur keeps pace with her.

gardensun sent a note to Araklusta,deoelvenmage

Last edited June 25, 2021 9:40 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 9:51 pm

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to Araklusta,gardensun

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 25, 2021 10:00 pm

Re: The Coast Way

gardensun sent a note to Araklusta,deoelvenmage

Last edited June 25, 2021 10:04 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 25, 2021 10:32 pm

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to Araklusta,gardensun

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 25, 2021 10:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella trails behind now that Wirrow was navigating—she was better at it, anyway.

Stella sees Aiwë murmur to Wirrow and subtly pour some dark liquid out of vials. It was difficult to identify with the uncertain light filtering through the trees. What was that? Had it gone bad, or was it dangerous? What were they hiding...and why?

Feeling awfully alone despite the company around her, Stella clutches her tome to her chest and trails her way to the back of the group, where she sees Kay following along quietly. Save maybe Imoen and Xzar, it seemed hardly anyone was having much of a good time.

"Hi, Kay," Stella gives a weak smile. "How are you feeling? Did you get much sleep?"

With the attack, the deaths of Dieter and Kregguk, the arduous night-long trek, and everything still soaking from the rain, well...she would be surprised if the answer was anything but "no". Still, the conversation might help them both get their mind off things while they walked.

Last edited June 25, 2021 10:42 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 25, 2021 10:47 pm

Re: The Coast Way

gardensun sent a note to Araklusta,deoelvenmage

Last edited June 25, 2021 10:50 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 12:13 am

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to Araklusta,gardensun

Last edited June 26, 2021 12:13 am

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 12:30 am

Re: The Coast Way

The sun dips, making the shaded forest even darker (we're now in dim light, according to the rulez). Surely it will soon be pitch black here, without even the light of moon or stars to show the way.

Xzar squints into the darkness and remarks quietly, "I wanted darkvision like the elves, but 'tis more than just taking their eyes..."

Imoen, who has been chatting happily with the wizard up until this point, gives him a sidelong look and chuckles awkwardly, unsure of exactly what the man means. Before she can ask, however, the screeching begins.

"blarkblarkblarkblark SKREEEEEEEEGLURKLGLURKL!!!"

Runeson recognizes the mad call of gibberlings, as do Xzar and Montaron, who immediately draw weapons. The noise seems to come from all around them, and Runeson can't help but remember the last time he fought the strange monsters.

Unwilling to face gibberlings in such darkness, Xzar conjures his dancing skull-lights, which bathe the immediate scenery green. Dozens of eyes peer back at the party from the darkness all around, and then the gibberlings attack!

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 12:37 am

Re: The Coast Way

Round 1 Player Phase!

OOC:

Gibberlings! So here's the deal: there are currently 4 groups of baddies since they're coming from all sides (North, East, South, and West). So think of there being 4 'fronts' of the battle, and then whoever isn't in a front rank is in the middle of the party, being protected. You'll need at least 1 person at every front, or the middle people will be easily targeted. Montaron will take 1 of the fronts, so the rest of you have to cover the other 3. You can have up to 2 people per front. So someone can join Montaron if they want to. The party has a few seconds to form up how they want to, so you can just pick a 'front' or 'middle' and make a note of it at the end of your post.

As for how they enemies are grouped, they share a hit point total. So if you happen to do 15 damage to a group, you kill all 3 gibberlings in that group (each gibberling has 5 hp). Make sense? Feel free to ask questions in the Discord!

I FORGOT TO ADD: Attack rolls against these guys ALL HAVE ADVANTAGE. Cuz reasons.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/26/79/c2/2679c22d5bee4cf8dd00dd8ffa840ffd.jpg

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 26, 2021 2:35 am

Re: The Coast Way

At the screams, Stella spins and shrugs her bow off her shoulder—this time she had it strung and ready. She backs up, turns around, backs up again as the party forms up to fight off enemies from all sides.

Stella's frightened eyes soon flare a fierce orange. They were not going to lose any more.

She knocks an arrow and blows an icy druidic word onto it. The arrow becomes encased in frost, then she draws and sends it into one of the groups of approaching creatures before it explodes into a sphere of icy shards.

(Stella casts Ice Knife. North Front takes 2 damage and two of them must succeed on DEX saves or each take 11 damage, or however the mobs work.)

[ +- ] Ice Knife

HP: 12/12
AC: 13
Middle

Last edited June 26, 2021 2:44 am

Rolls

NO. BAD. Ice Knife vs North Front (Adv) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

1d20+5 : (7) + 5 = 12

Attack Damage - (1d10)

(2) = 2

AoE Damage - (2d6)

(65) = 11

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 3:34 am

Re: The Coast Way

Once again, Wirrow feels ill at ease with the things the outsiders say. She hasn't forgotten the threats. But as enemies encroach, she puts it aside for the time being, instead planting a phantom arrow solidly through the eye of one of the gibberlings.

Stella's arrow is far more impressive, and Wirrow gives it an appreciative glance and smile.

(Wirrow casts Looming Shadow. East Front takes 12 piercing damage, and one of them takes an additional 1d10 psychic damage on its next turn if it takes any hostile action towards Aiwe.)

HP: 20/20
AC: 14
Middle

Last edited June 26, 2021 4:06 am

Rolls

Longbow vs East Front (Adv) - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (10) + 7 = 17

1d20+7 : (9) + 7 = 16

Damage (Longbow, Favored Foe) - (1d8+3, 1d4)

1d8+3 : (8) + 3 = 11

1d4 : (1) = 1

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 3:57 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Alright, you twin potted fairy hobbedgobblin. Yea that's right! You too! Well, i bet you couldn't hit one of those furry duncemuffins if you tried.... What did you call me? Oh, this aughta be good."

Without Ossein's help, the Zombie Archer plucks a crooked arrow from the air, looses it, and blasts the group of chitterlings apart.

"Lucky Shot, you cheated, it doesn't count."

Group to the south takes 15 damage

AC: 13? I think
HP: ∞
Loc: middle

Last edited June 26, 2021 4:09 am

Rolls

Arrow'd - (1d20+5)

(20) + 5 = 25

Damage with crit - (1d6+9)

(6) + 9 = 15

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 4:12 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift has never seen these nasty creatures before, and he's pretty sure he never wants to see them again. He stays close to Montaron (even though the man stole his pie) and pulls out the rapier that he found in his bag. A dashing weapon indeed!

He slashes out at the gibberlings. The tip slashes out and hits first one gibberling, and then another, with almost no effort.

(10 damage to West)

AC 14
HP 17/17
West, front

Last edited June 26, 2021 4:18 am

Rolls

Rapier attack! - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

Again, bc advantage - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Damage - (1d8+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Sneak attack! - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Jabbbahut

Jun 26, 2021 6:07 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish steps in front of Stella and activates his chain once more. With a crack it whips it out, barbed edges digging into any flesh it touches.

Whip deals 9 damage along with any damage Stella does.

HP 19
AC 17

Last edited June 26, 2021 6:28 am

Rolls

Whip vs North - (1d20+6)

(9) + 6 = 15

W Adv - (1d20+6)

(20) + 6 = 26

whip crit damage - (1d6+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 6:26 am

Re: The Coast Way

Upon hearing the gibberlings’ cries I instinctively grab my warhammer and shield.
Be careful! They will try to separate and drag us away!" I yell, thinking of the poor guards from last time.
I swing at the closest gibberling within range."Justice smite you!"

6 damage to western gibberlings

AC: 18
Health: 20/20
Front: West

Last edited June 26, 2021 6:31 am

Rolls

Attack western gibberlings - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Advantage- western gibberlings attack - (1d20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Damage - western gibberlings - (1d8+3)

(3) + 3 = 6

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 3:51 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron waits stoically for his group of gibberlings to close, and then leaps forward with his thick shortsword stabbing, each slice neatly sinking into an eye or opening a throat. "Let the rivers run RED!!!"

16 dmg to East group, killing all three there.

Rolls

Shortsword vs east group (adv) - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (13) + 7 = 20

1d20+7 : (3) + 7 = 10

dmg to east (piercing, sneak attack) - (1d6+4, 4d6)

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

4d6 : (1232) = 8

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 4:03 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar raises his arms high and shouts foreign syllables. "Harrumpha deGACKdeGACKdeGACK aaaWOOOOO!!!!!" It doesn't seem to have any magical effect, but a vein bulges in his forehead and he screams, "I am become DEATH, the destroyer of WOOORLDS!"

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 4:06 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The group becomes a bastion of order in the middle of churning, screeching chaos. Xzar’s dancing skull-lights make it all even more confusing - and terrifying. The gibberlings fling themselves at the nearest party members, without regard for the safety of themselves or each other. Wiry, muscled bodies with patchy gray fur swing tree branch clubs, makeshift daggers, anything they can get their hands on. A few of the more clever ones leap at the companions’ arms or legs, trying to weigh them down.

Dmg is as follows…
Sheemish takes 14
Montaron takes 16
Aiwe expends her thingy and is at 1 hp
Rift takes 10

Fortunately, these beasties also fall easily. In just seconds the first wave of enemies are cut down, though more feral screams and insane chatterings signal the arrival of the rest of the gibberlings. What's worse, a handful of them are climbing up nearby trees (Climbing Groups 1 and 2).

Rolls

North group vs Sheemish (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (20) + 4 = 24

1d20+4 : (11) + 4 = 15

attacks vs Sheemish (4, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (1216) + 4 = 32

2d20+4 : (22) + 4 = 8

2d20+4 : (1017) + 4 = 31

2d20+4 : (1412) + 4 = 30

dmg to Sheemish (piercing) - (3d4+6)

(413) + 6 = 14

East group vs Montaron (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (20) + 4 = 24

1d20+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

Attacks vs Montaron (4, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (511) + 4 = 20

2d20+4 : (717) + 4 = 28

2d20+4 : (139) + 4 = 26

2d20+4 : (616) + 4 = 26

dmg to Montaron - (4d4+8)

(2114) + 8 = 16

South group vs Aiwe (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (16) + 4 = 20

1d20+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

Attacks vs Aiwe (4, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (1420) + 4 = 38

2d20+4 : (1119) + 4 = 34

2d20+4 : (314) + 4 = 21

2d20+4 : (1914) + 4 = 37

dmg to Aiwe - (4d4+12)

(3324) + 12 = 24

West group vs runeson (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

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

West group vs Rift (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

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

Attacks vs Rift (4 attacks, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (184) + 4 = 26

2d20+4 : (96) + 4 = 19

2d20+4 : (517) + 4 = 26

2d20+4 : (73) + 4 = 14

dmg to Rift - (2d4+4)

(24) + 4 = 10

North group dex saves vs ice knife (3 saves) - (3d20+2)

(41110) + 2 = 27

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 6:14 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Round 2 Player Phase!!

OOC:

Same deal as last time, but you're welcome to rearrange where you are (for example, swap Aiwe with Wirrow). Also, two climbing groups that can only be reached by ranged attacks.

As a clarification, still adv on all attacks against these moops!

Good news is, this should be the last of them.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/18/ea/c7/18eac7e659c278b8feae888cbdaf1316.jpg

Imoen

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 6:19 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen, who has been staring wide-eyed at the bloodshed going on, notices a group of climbers and looses a couple of arrows. She stares in awe as two gibberlings drop dead out of the trees. "Did you see that? Did anyone see that? Score!"

10 dmg to the climbing group 1

Middle

Rolls

Imoen vs climbing group 1 - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

dmg to climbing group 1 (sneak attack) - (2d6+3)

(25) + 3 = 10

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 26, 2021 6:24 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron growls as some of the gibberlings' attacks reach him, but the stocky halfling might as well be a barbarian for the heed he gives. His short sword does its dirty work, and a considerable pile of crooked bodies grows around the angry little fellow.

21 dmg to East group

East

Rolls

Montaron vs East (adv) - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (13) + 7 = 20

1d20+7 : (8) + 7 = 15

dmg to east - (2d6+4)

(43) + 4 = 11

REAL damage roll (piercing, sneak attack) - (1d6+4, 4d6)

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

4d6 : (5335) = 16

Jabbbahut

Jun 26, 2021 7:29 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish falls to a knee under the assault, dead gibberlings falling around him. Through sheer determination he stands back up picking up a severed enemy head as he regains his footing. Holding in front of himself with both gauntleted hands there is a whirring sound as a tremendous amount of pressure builds. With the sound of a small cannon, the severed head shoots from his hands at the next incoming group, with broken teeth and bone protruding as it ricochets between the stupid creatures.

Hopefully
dex 14 save Vs catapult or death
hp 5
Ac 17

Last edited June 26, 2021 9:03 pm

Rolls

Decapitated catipult - (3d8)

(584) = 17

Dex save - (1d20+2)

(17) + 2 = 19

Dex 14 save next group - (1d20+2)

(12) + 2 = 14

Maybe?!?! - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 7:51 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Ossein snickers and says, "Not bad, you almost really hurt them. Guess you aren't as good as you claimed. I should replace you with one of those little guys, they're probably better at archery than you."

10 damage to south side.

AC: 13
HP: ∞
Loc: middle

Last edited June 26, 2021 8:01 pm

Rolls

Arrow'd advantage - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

Damage - (1d6+4)

(6) + 4 = 10

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 7:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Rift staggers after taking damage from the nasty gibberlings. How dare they!

He swings again and watches several of the monsters fall. "Take that, you nasty things!"

(13 damage to West side)

AC 14
HP 7/17
Front, west side

Last edited June 26, 2021 7:59 pm

Rolls

Rapier attack again - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Advantage - (1d20+5)

(19) + 5 = 24

Rapier damage - (1d8+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Sneak attack - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 26, 2021 8:42 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow's question is forgotten in the howl of the gibberlings. They're on them before Aiwë can act, ripping into her flesh. She gasps and staggers. As she blinks the spots away from her eyes, words come to her.

"With that great blow her vision fades
She sinks beneath the waves
Is this where the story ends?"

"KIO-RAAAAA!" Aiwë's shout echoes far more than it did in the Hearth, her voice ripping into the gibberlings and blowing them away. She draws her sword as the resonance works through her, filling her with strength.

"This will not be her grave!"

Aiwë casts Thunderwave on then North side, destroying the gibberlings. She then casts Cure Wounds on herself and gains 9 hp.

HP: 10
AC: 14

Last edited June 27, 2021 1:31 am

Rolls

Cure wounds on self - (1d8+3)

(6) + 3 = 9

Thunderwave saves - (1d20, 1d20, 1d20)

1d20 : (13) = 13

1d20 : (8) = 8

1d20 : (13) = 13

Thunderwave damage - (2d8)

(85) = 13

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 26, 2021 11:05 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With eye-stars burning like meteors, Stella refuses to let up her assault.

"Freeze," she whispers to her next arrow, encasing it with ice.

She aims up at the climbing creatures and fires the missile like an icy comet, a misty frost trailing behind it. It shatters, tearing through gibberlings and tree branches and showing mist and flakes of ice down on the party. (Somewhere between 12 and 22 damage to Climbing Group 2.)

HP: 12/12
AC: 13
Middle

Last edited June 26, 2021 11:20 pm

Rolls

Ice Knife vs Climbing Group 2 (Adv) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

1d20+5 : (2) + 5 = 7

Attack Damage - (1d10)

(2) = 2

AoE Damage - (2d6)

(14) = 5

Climbing Group 2 Dex Saves - (1d20+2, 1d20+2, 1d20+2)

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

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

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

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 26, 2021 11:10 pm

Re: The Coast Way

(Wirrow deals lethal damage to Climbing Group 1, and moves next to Aiwe to help absorb damage.)

HP: 20/20
AC: 14
North (or wherever Aiwe is)

Last edited June 26, 2021 11:14 pm

Rolls

Longbow vs Climbing Group 1 (adv) - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (5) + 7 = 12

1d20+7 : (7) + 7 = 14

Longbow Damage - (1d8+3)

(4) + 3 = 7

Xzar

Araklusta

Jun 27, 2021 12:19 am

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar snaps his fingers and three magical, bluzzing darts fly towards gibberlings of different groups. Each dart unerringly finds its mark and makes a small explosion of arcane force on impact, disintegrating whatever body part they happened to hit.

Magic Missile! Two bolts on South group (10 dmg), one bolt on West (5 dmg).

Middle

Rolls

Magic Missile - (1d4+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Araklusta

Jun 27, 2021 12:32 am

Re: The Coast Way

The second wave crashes against the party with screams of battle, pain, and gibberish all around. Gibberlings fall from the trees as they’re struck by arrows and spells, further littering the ground with bodies.

Tragedy nearly strikes when Sheemish falls under the weight of several of the monsters. With the sudden gap in the party’s defenses, two gibberlings dart in and cut viciously at Stella’s legs, while the third starts pulling Sheemish’s unconscious form out into the darkness. Fortunately, Aiwe’s thunderous spell sends gibberling bodies flying back out of the midst of the group, colliding with the one dragging Sheemish so forcefully that all three are slain.

Dmg!
Sheemish takes 6 and is unconscious
Stella takes 7
Montaron takes 9
Runeson takes only 4 (cuz reasons)
Wirrow takes 9

As the rest of the swarm falls to the companions’ might, the forest seems eerily quiet. Absent the screeching, the only sound they can hear is their own hard breathing.

OOC:

End combat!

Rolls

North vs Sheemish (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (20) + 4 = 24

North vs Sheemish (2 attacks, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (618) + 4 = 28

2d20+4 : (102) + 4 = 16

dmg to Sheemish - (1d4+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

North vs Stella (2 attacks, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (611) + 4 = 21

2d20+4 : (1319) + 4 = 36

dmg to Stella - (2d4+4)

(12) + 4 = 7

East vs Montaron (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

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

East vs Montaron (2 attacks, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (151) + 4 = 20

2d20+4 : (1615) + 4 = 35

dmg to Montaron - (2d4+4)

(41) + 4 = 9

South vs Runeson (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

1d20+4 : (19) + 4 = 23

1d20+4 : (7) + 4 = 11

South vs Runeson (4 attacks) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (21) + 4 = 7

2d20+4 : (419) + 4 = 27

2d20+4 : (115) + 4 = 20

2d20+4 : (155) + 4 = 24

dmg to Runeson - (3d4+6)

(221) + 6 = 11

oops. South for reals vs Wirrow (swarm, adv) - (1d20+4, 1d20+4)

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

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

South for reals vs Wirrow (4 attacks, adv) - (2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4, 2d20+4)

2d20+4 : (68) + 4 = 18

2d20+4 : (78) + 4 = 19

2d20+4 : (410) + 4 = 18

2d20+4 : (189) + 4 = 31

dmg to Wirrow - (2d4+4)

(14) + 4 = 9

Montaron

Araklusta

Jun 27, 2021 2:18 am

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron walks about kicking bodies to make sure they're down. As he passes Sheemish, the halfling pulls a healing potion out of his own pack... and drinks it himself.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 27, 2021 3:27 am

Re: The Coast Way

With a bite in one of her legs, but adrenaline numbing the pain, Stella staggers over to Sheemish and falls to her knees, ignoring Montaron. She quickly assesses the wound as she quickly draws out and applies a salve then bandages it tight to stop the bleeding. It didn't seem like there were any claws or teeth stuck in it...but it was still bad.

(Sheemish regains 7 HP.)

"Come on, Sheemish! Stay with us!" she splashes water on his face and pries open an eye to see if it reacts normally. "We have to go!"

HP: 5/12

Last edited June 27, 2021 3:32 am

Rolls

Healer's Kit - (1d6+6)

(1) + 6 = 7

Retroative herbalist kit check to regain healer's kit uses - (1d20+5)

(9) + 5 = 14

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 27, 2021 3:39 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë glances around, counting party members and broadly assessing their wounds. With Stella tending to Sheemish they're all well enough. For now.

"We have to put distance between us and all the noise we just made. Move out!" she calls, reminding those who know her that she was raised a soldier.

"We have to be close now," Shelur murmurs to herself. "Please, Torm."

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 27, 2021 3:52 am

Re: The Coast Way

.

Rolls

Stella healing help - (1d6+6)

(3) + 6 = 9

Araklusta

Jun 27, 2021 3:54 am

Re: The Coast Way

In a couple of hours nighttime has fallen entirely, but the party reaches the far edge of the forest. And there, just across the dimly-lit road, stands the Friendly Arm Inn.

OOC:

Link to a TINY cutscene video from the original game. For nostalgia. HERE

I'll probably add some lore stuff over the next couple of days, as well as things that can be done here, notable NPCs etc, but for now feel free to carry on as you like!

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 27, 2021 6:54 am

Re: The Coast Way

Upon arrival, I go to the Temple of Wisdom with Dieter’s body seeking to revive him.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 27, 2021 6:04 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë's knees buckle as they cross the drawbridge into the Friendly Arm Inn. It feels more like a fortress than an inn. She manages to stay standing. A fortress is what they need right now.

"We made it, Uncle." But her work isn't done yet.

"The temple, or the Inn. Two groups should be fine, but stay together until we're sure it's safe," Shelur tells the group. "Remember, we thought Candlekeep was."

Aiwë walks with Runeson and Tulco to the Temple of Wisdom. At the doors, she helps the paladin tie his horse and retrieve Dieter from his back, then takes Keggruk from hers and holds him in her arms. The two carry their covered loads into the temple.

"Hello?" Aiwë calls as they enter. "Can you help us? Please, we have dead."

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 27, 2021 6:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The Temple of Wisdom is a much smaller building than the fortress/inn it stands next to. Runeson and Aiwe hear a magical jingling noise as they enter the building. There are pews facing an altar, and embedded into the back wall are nuggets of gold and precious gems. They are soon approached by a small gnomish woman.

She beams up at them in spite of the late hour, until she sees the reason for their coming. "Greetings! I am Gellana Mirroshade, at your service on the behalf of Garl Gli- Oh dear. Please, come this way and I'll see what can be done."

She leads them to a back room with a row of cots, small feet moving quickly to stay ahead of her visitors. "How long ago did they die? Do they still have all their limbs and organs? Is there any reason you can think of that they wouldn't wish to be raised? And last, but not least, do you have payment for them? I'm afraid that I need 500 gold pieces each if I am to do anything to help them."

Jabbbahut

Jun 27, 2021 8:26 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish digs in his pockets searching for his gem pouch, from his math though he knew it would only be enough for one. Pulling Aiwe aside "I have enough to help one of them, but there’s not enough for both. I would trade it all in a heartbeat if I could. But unless we have another 400 gold then we have a decision to make."

Or maybe . . .

Rolls

Mystery roll - (1d100)

(19) = 19

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 27, 2021 9:47 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë follows numbly. "This is the third day. My uncle is missing an eye. I... I don't think so. I don't know about Dieter but my uncle has a baby and a wife at home. " She lays Keggruk in his sack on one of the cots. "I... I don't." Sheemish pulls her aside.

"Dieter," she says, the only delay in her voice from the dullness that has taken root in her chest. "Keggruk was trying to save him too. Four hundred more? I have a hundred gold." Her mind scrambles for options. "How much does Dieter have? Wirrow, how much do you have?"

Shelur turns back to Gellana. "Please, my lady. My uncle is a paladin. A hero! I-I'm a bard. I can get the money. How long do I have?"

Last edited June 27, 2021 9:52 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 27, 2021 10:07 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow cringes at the way Aiwe's temperament flips back and forth between hope, desperation, and resignation. "I don't have any, I think. I've never had money..."

Then, almost as an afterthought, she remembers, "Oh, I guess I have whatever we got paid a week ago, don't I?" She reaches down and hands over all of her portion of the gold for bringing back Koveras's carriage at the beginning of their stay in Candlekeep. No hesitation (once she remembers she has something), and not a single coin has been spent.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 28, 2021 2:20 am

Re: The Coast Way

Gellana holds her hands before her in a conciliatory gesture. "I understand, it's alright. I've worked with people in the past who were in the same predicament. With the 500 gold you have I can bring back one of your friends. For the other, I can keep him in stasis here for a time while you raise the necessary funds."

She puts a finger to her lips and thinks for a moment. "My husband, Bentley, minds the Inn. We used to be adventurers ourselves, before establishing ourselves here. To help facilitate jobs for other adventurers, Bentley keeps a notice board. You might consider looking it over for some jobs to be done around these parts. Do a few of those, and I'm sure you'll have enough for your other friend here."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 28, 2021 6:12 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë almost sighed with relief, before her breath caught again. "Will he be safe here while I'm gone?" She glances anxiously at the large sack that contains Keggruk's body. "My uncle... he's an orog."

Last edited June 28, 2021 6:34 pm

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 28, 2021 10:41 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The gnome priestess shows only mild surprise. "An orog? I can't say I've treated one of them before, but people of orcish blood pass through here on occasion." She smiles reassuringly. "He will be fine here in the house of Garl Glittergold."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 28, 2021 10:46 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The relief in Aiwë's face is considerable. She has brought everyone safe to the Inn. Dieter will be fine. Keggruk will be fine. She smiles, eyes brightening.

"Thank you. Thank you! I...I--!" Suddenly she seems filled with energy. "I have to go play a song!" She hurries out the door to see if there is a place for a performer at the Inn.

Last edited June 28, 2021 10:47 pm

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 28, 2021 10:58 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Grumbling to himself Ossein starts as he seems to realize where he is.

"GAH! I'm burn.....oh, maybe, yes, yes I'm quite alright actually. Whew, that's quite a relief.

Ah! Madam Mirrorshade, excuse my interruption, but you seem to get a lot of dead bodies here. By any chance do you happen to have any extras lying about? I'm willing to trade. The one I have is a bit stubborn, and...NO! YOU SHOVE A MINOTAUR'S LEFT HORN UP YOUR FAIRY Aaaanyway what I mean to say is mine isn't particularly pleased with our current arrangement, and in my considerably professional opinion, a change of arrangements may be in order. I prefer if the deceased are well taken care of. DON'T YOU IMPUNG ON MY MOTHER!. My apologies ma'am my companion is quite crude, and ummm insistent. Bert had his faults, but I will say this about him, he was much better behaved."

OOC:

I don't actually expect this request to work out, but it's something Ossein would ask.

Last edited June 28, 2021 11:05 pm

Flaming Fist Soldier

Araklusta

Jun 28, 2021 11:11 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Heavy wood doors open into an enormous tap room bathed in warm lantern light. The inn is packed with patrons dressed in varying attire both familiar and exotic. Scattered among them stand a handful of well-armored soldiers who all wear a distinctive insignia of a clenched fist wreathed in fire.

As the party crosses the inn’s threshold, one such soldier approaches, holding out a gauntleted arm. He says, "You won’t be needing weapons here. Leave them with me, and I’ll return them upon your departure."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 28, 2021 11:51 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Shelur passes the soldier all her weapons save her mallets, which are really musical instruments. "Tight crew," she says admiringly, then goes in search of a place to perform.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 29, 2021 1:45 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella is relieved to be in a place that at least feels safe, and that Aiwë has hope for Kregguk. Both of the musician-warrior's parents died a few times and lived to tell the tale, so...why not the orog warrior?

Stella follows Aiwë into the inn and relinquishes her bow and quiver without any protest.

"Would you...like any help?" Stella asks with a warm smile. She wasn't as musically skilled as Aiwë, but she did sing and dance. Mostly, however, she wanted to help however she could. Four hundred gold was nothing to scoff at—it was more than she had ever seen in one place.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 3:30 am

Re: The Coast Way

As Ossein speaks, Gellana flinches and puts a hand to her necklace, where a gold nugget hangs. The gold begins to shine with holy light. "Back, you undead creature! You will not desecrate these holy halls!"

Ossein must succeed on a DC 14 Wisdom saving throw or Archer is instantly destroyed.

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 3:38 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë finds a raised dais in the middle of the room. Currently there is an older gentleman seated there on a stool, lute across his lap. His fingers absently pass over notes and chords as he stares out at nothing. The music is typical background ambience; fine playing, but with no spirit.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 29, 2021 3:41 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë beams at Stella. "Yes! I would love for you to play with me! Let's sing Though the Winds Blow and see how the crowd feels from there." The song is about a hunter trekking through frostbite to his family. She doesn't seem to notice any parallel as she walks to the lute player.

"Fine sir!" she murmurs quietly, loud enough to be heard by him but not to disrupt his ambience too greatly. "Can I hire your accompaniment for a performance?"

Last edited June 29, 2021 3:43 am

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 3:49 am

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow looks nervous at the prospect of surrendering her weapons, but licks her lips and seems to think better of it. If Aiwe and Stella can do it, then she certainly can too. A faint cry and an uneasy feeling of wrongness from the temple behind her almost delays her further, but she pushes on inwards.

She does not, however, offer to help perform. No instrument here she knows how to use, and even if there was, there's no way she's performing in front of anyone. Still, from everyone else's reactions, four hundred gold must be a lot. There has to be something she can do to get some; to help fix Aiwe, even if the girl seems to be feeling better for the moment.

The cleric lady they'd talked to (Wirrow wishes it could have been some other profession) mentioned a listing of jobs that could work. Getting paid to kill things, like the job at Candlekeep? She could do that! Wirrow wanders around the lantern-lit abode, searching for anything of the kind.

If it occurs to her to ask any of the regulars where it is, she quickly squashes the thought. That was hardly independent, and she just... doesn't feel like talking to anyone she can avoid talking to right now. As usual.

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 3:56 am

Re: The Coast Way

Anyone perusing the inn notices a prominent board hanging from one wall. It has several handwritten notes on it:

[ +- ] Giant Problem

[ +- ] Trouble With Hobgoblins

[ +- ] Please oh please oh please

[ +- ] Gibberling Rescue

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 3:58 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Hahahaha. See that Archie, not even the nice lady likes you. Now I know it's not just me. Everyone hates you.

But for real, I'd appreciate you not killing my legs unless you got a new pair for me. Oh, and has anyone told you how beautiful you look when smiting nthe undead?"

Last edited June 29, 2021 4:10 am

Rolls

Fried crispy - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 4:42 am

Re: The Coast Way

I accompany the group silently feeling almost like an intruder seeing to the pain and anguish that Aiwe feels after losing someone so close to her. I pitch in my meager earnings of 41 gold to pay for the resurrection of our fallen. After most of the rest of the group have left, I step forward and say,"I would like to help in the resurrections in any way possible. Perhaps I can prepare the bodies or gather any ingredients you may need? I ask helpfully.

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 4:52 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift is hesitant to enter the inn after his previous encounter in a tavern, but the thought of going with the dead bodies is even less appealing. He doesn't offer up any of his gold either, though he feels maybe a smidge guilty. It's his money though, and dead people shouldn't need money.

Wandering into the inn, he carefully steers away from anyone drinking. Instead, he checks out the board covered in notes. He visibly flinches reading about the gibberlings, his leg still a hing from where he was bitten. The one with the spiders appeals to him... until it specifies that there will be no house burning. Unfortunate, that. He happens to know that spiders burn very well.

He turns away from the board to see a few members of his crew enter. The girls appear to be getting ready to put on a show. He finds an empty table and sits down to watch, carefully keeping his bag very close to his person. Too many people get careless with their things in a place like this.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 3:08 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The small priestess takes a quick step backward and draws her mace threateningly. "What manner of creature are you?"

She directs her next words at Runeson, but is careful to never let Archer out of her sight. "You travel with... whatever this is? Are you not a paladin?"

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 3:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Ossein gasps quite loudly. "I'll have you know young lady, I am NO creature."

Archer reluctantly raises Ossein in bow form above his head.

"I was murdered and my soul was bound to this evil vessel by a group of "good" clerics and paladins just because one of them was jealous of my relationship with a girl at the time. So you can either get off your high horse, take off your blinders, and apologize, or I'll bid your ignorant, bias, albeit beautiful butt, Good Day."

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 5:27 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Gellana shakes her head in obvious confusion. "No servant of good would do such a thing. Are you saying you will leave? Then begone! Depart this sacred place!"

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 5:33 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The old minstrel blinks as if waking up, but his experienced hands continue their ambling song. "Hmm? Oh yes. Certainly." He clears his throat and brings his song to a conclusion. "What did you have in mind?"

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 5:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

I nod my head in understanding. "I have found no misdeeds in any of my interactions with Ossein. He, and his bearers, have fought to protect and help our group. I have also not seen or heard of any laws broken or qualms from the other places we have visited. And while I cannot say that this…" I motion towards Ossein and his bearer with a look of understanding. …is pleasant or enjoyable to be around, who am I to judge someone by their appearances and or… hygiene?"

Last edited June 29, 2021 5:38 pm

Rolls

Persuasion I guess? - (1d20+4)

(7) + 4 = 11

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 29, 2021 7:22 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"My cousin and I are going to sing 'Though the Winds Blow.' It's from Icewind Dale, do you know it? We need you to fill out the ambiance. Just play something a little tense and windy feeling, okay?"

Without waiting for a response, Aiwë pulls a stool onto the dais and sets her handpan on her lap and her drum at her feet. As soon as Stella is settled, she begins a solo entrance.

"Can you hear the mountains gro-uoh-uoh-uoan?"

Her feet hit the drum twice, then she queues in the lutist and begins playing on her handpan.

"I am so very far from hoooooooome.
But the game is hearty, strong and hale,
here in the depths of Icewind Dale."

Last edited June 29, 2021 7:23 pm

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jun 29, 2021 7:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I will depart, but know this. Attacking those who have done you no harm is evil. You have committed an evil here today, much like those who cursed me and you claim are also supposedly good. You need to reflect and think about who here is truely good and who's just pretending. Good day."

With those words Ossein and Archer leave.

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jun 29, 2021 9:13 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter sits up as the warmth returns to his body. The weight of his flesh is heavy on his shoulders as he adjusts to breathing again. He looks around for familiar faces and finds none except the burlap bag containing kragguk "I kept my word to you friend" dieter whispers his tongue heavy in his mouth and moves awkwardly. "where am I?" he says calmly turning to the priest who raised him. Dieter is not startled in the slightest by what has happening.

it seems existence is painful

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 9:45 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Gellana wipes her sweaty brow. Spellcasting for an hour to raise someone from the dead takes its toll on the caster. Still, she smiles as Dieter stirs. "You are in the Temple of Wisdom at the Friendly Arm Inn. Your friend Runeson stayed by your side and helped me with anything I needed while I brought you back. Your other companions are about; most of them in the Inn's tap room, I believe."

Araklusta

Jun 29, 2021 9:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The lutist picks a few brittle, dissonant chords to accompany Aiwe's intro, and when she gives the go-ahead he strums along.

The room gradually hushes as the patrons realize that a true song is being performed - and a new one at that! Most of these people have likely never even heard of Icewind Dale.

Stella

Carcabob

Jun 29, 2021 10:29 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella is a bit caught off-guard by how soon they were performing, but quickly takes a seat and Aiwë begins.

Quote:

"Can you hear the mountains gro-uoh-uoh-uoan?"
Her feet hit the drum twice, then she queues in the lutist and begins playing on her handpan.

Looking around at the patrons, nerves begin to rise and her stomach churns. Maybe it wasn't too late to—no...this was for Aiwë. Stella closes her eyes and takes a breath as deep as the frosted snow of home.

Quote:

"I am so very far from hoooooooome."

"From hooooo-ooome. Stella joins in quietly, shooting above Aiwë's note in a haunting harmony, before rising further.

Quote:

"But the game is hearty, strong and hale,
here in the depths of Icewind Dale."

"Ooooooo-hearty, strong, and ha-ale, she softly descends, visions of the hardy tundra filling her mind.
Here in the depths of Icewind Da-aaale."

She blows and four twinkling lights flow out of her mouth. They spread to illuminate the platform, lazily drifting around the performers like cold, quiet stars, watching from a turning sky. (Stella casts dancing lights)

Then, as Aiwë begins the next phrase and with her eyes still closed, Stella begins tapping the air in front of her. The taps create the sound of quiet bells, the pitches alternating between high and low, like snow being whisked about in the wind. (Stella casts minor illusion.)

Last edited June 29, 2021 10:42 pm

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jun 30, 2021 4:40 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift watches the girls play and sing in amazement. Music is not really something he has had much experience with, but the haunting melody makes his skin prickle under his scales and sends a shiver down his back. His wings twitch and he looks away.

The room is quieter now and he starts to examine some of the other patrons out of curiosity. One of them might know something that could help them with their quest(s).

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+4)

(8) + 4 = 12

Araklusta

Jun 30, 2021 3:58 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Rift notices one man who doesn't seem interested in the music. Like the Flaming Fist mercenaries in the room, this man wears a set of heavy armor. He bears no symbol or insignia, however. His head is in his hands, though when he periodically glances over at the job board Rift can see his short beard, pointed ears, and tired eyes. He must have something on his mind.

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 30, 2021 4:00 pm

Re: The Coast Way

I return to the room just after Dieter is revived, "Here is more water in case you are thirsty. Oh! Welcome back to the land of the living!" I help Dieter to his feet slowly. "Take it easy, it may take some time to readjust to your body again. The rest of our group will be excited to hear you are back among us! Once you are ready we can join them in the inn." I help guide Dieter to a seat and bring him any food or water that he might need or want until his strength comes back.

Araklusta

Jun 30, 2021 4:07 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With the exception of the man who has caught Rift's attention, everyone in the room seems enthralled by the performance taking place. Men and women lean forward in their seats. Even Xzar and Montaron, who have found their own table in a darker corner, seem to be entertained.

When Aiwe, Stella, and the lutist finish, a fine amount of copper and silver coins make their way to the dais as tips. The old lutist helps himself to his share with a happy nod, and then, his money for the night made, puts his instrument away and leaves. (Aiwe and Stella each gain 2 gold pieces).

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jun 30, 2021 5:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Hey gibber bait, you want to make some money?...of course *cough* you do. Talking is weird" dieter says as he is pulled up. He takes some sips of water and eats a little but stops finding the act of swallowing uncomfortable. He stands up and rests a hand on runeson "lets go we the others"

Last edited June 30, 2021 5:36 pm

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jun 30, 2021 7:43 pm

Re: The Coast Way

I smile and nod at Dieter’s joke. "Speaking of gibberlings, you missed out…" and fill him in on the what has happened since his untimely demise as we go to the Inn.

Once we get to the inn I look for our other companions and ensure that Dieter is comfortable before going to check on Tulco.

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jun 30, 2021 8:34 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With the musical number over, the Inn's proprietor makes his way to Stella and Aiwe. "Marvelous performance!" the little gnome says with a beaming smile. "Adding in just the small touches of magic to the music made the whole experience... well... magical!"

He gestures to himself. "I am Bentley Mirrorshade, owner of the Friendly Arm Inn! I hope you feel welcome for however long you stay here!"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jun 30, 2021 11:39 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The gloom of the past few days seems to have entirely left Aiwë by the end of the song.

"Stella, that was amazing!" she gushes, brown eyes warm. "When did you learn to do that? Wait, no, tell me when we eat. We have to ride the crowd!" She fixes her drum to her hip and looks back out. Seeing Dieter and Runeson enter the inn she begins a drum roll.

"This one is dedicated to Dieter! Brave soldier, noble man!" she cries, then promptly begins a raucous drinking song about a young boy who becomes a mercenary to see the world.

When the song finishes, Aiwë smiles warmly at the gnome proprietor. "Thank you. Your inn is such a relief after our days on the road. I'll be about doing some work if I can find it, but when I'm back may I play for my keep here?"

Last edited June 30, 2021 11:40 pm

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jul 1, 2021 1:36 am

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"I'll be about doing some work if I can find it, but when I'm back may I play for my keep here?"

"Of course! With people passing through, I'm always on the lookout for more entertainment for the guests. And myself, I admit!"

Bentley points out the job board on the wall. "If you're looking for work, you might give that a read. There's always someone who needs help in these parts! If any of the jobs strike your fancy, let me know and I'll point you toward the ones who are paying."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 1, 2021 1:43 am

Re: The Coast Way

After briefly conferring with the other party members, Aiwë returns.

"Can you point me to Khalid? How worried he must be about his wife!"

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Jul 1, 2021 1:50 am

Re: The Coast Way

Bentley's nod is a resigned, sad one. "Yes, Khalid is most distraught about his missing Jaheira. I hope there is something that can be done for her, for both their sakes."

The gnome gestures toward the melancholic half-elf that Rift noticed earlier.

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 1, 2021 1:59 am

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid happens to be looking up at this moment, and he looks at the party with a suddenly hopeful expression. He anxiously waves them over, then stands to greet them. His furrowed brow is slick with sweat, and his sun-tanned skin has blanched to a sickly pallor.

"Th-thank you for joining me! M-my name is Khalid," he stutters. "I wish to hire a group of f-formidable adventurers to aid in the rescue of my wife. She was carried off by gibberlings after our c-camp was overrun less than a tenday ago. It seemed like their horde was traveling towards the Cloakwood—not far from here." He takes a drink from his glass of water. "Gibberlings usually eat their victims, but for some reason, they’ve kept my Jaheira alive." He holds up his hand, where an ornate metal ring wraps around one finger. "Our wedding bands share a magical bond, you see. This will be a dangerous t-task—but I have gold! Will you help me?"

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jul 1, 2021 2:28 am

Re: The Coast Way

Of course friend, normally we wouldn't charge for a quest as noble as this but we are trying to raise funds for a sick friend. What will you be willing to pay for the safe return of your wife?" Dieter asks putting comforting and on the man's shoulder.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 1, 2021 3:23 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë hands Dieter the job posting that lists the pay as 50 gold pieces each.

"Hello, Khalid, I'm Aiwë. Yes, we'll help. I think it may be best to leave at first light, when we are rested and most capable. Do you think Jaheira will be alright that long?"

Last edited July 1, 2021 3:23 am

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 1, 2021 4:01 am

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Stella, that was amazing!" she gushes, brown eyes warm. "When did you learn to do that? Wait, no, tell me when we eat. We have to ride the crowd!"

Stella blushes and grins sheepishly. "Thank you! You were too! I—oh, okay!" Stella sighs with relief, seeing Aiwë her usual self once again.

And performing felt amazing, especially with her new spells. No wonder Aiwë enjoyed it so much...

Seeing Dieter, Stella's heart sinks for a moment. The young man was wonderful, but...most of them knew Kregguk, not Dieter. Who decided that? Aiwë didn't seem to pay any mind, though...so perhaps she shouldn't either. They'd earn enough to pay for the orog's revival soon enough, she hoped.

She joins Aiwë, Dieter, Runeson, Rift and any others with them. Where was Wirrow? Expertly not being seen apparently...or rather...not apparently?

Quote:

Do you think Jaheira will be alright that long?"

"It might depend why they're keeping her alive," Stella remarks grimly.

Last edited July 1, 2021 4:02 am

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 1, 2021 4:43 am

Re: The Coast Way

Happy's flames bounce up and down to the beat of the music. During some of the high notes his flames kiss the low ceiling.

Ossein slides over to speak conspiratorially with Rift.

"Hey kid, how difficult would it be to plant tiny pieces of my bearer all around the temple we were just in. Well, not really the temple, mostly just the priestess's bedroom and in all her pockets, bags, shoes, you know, everywhere. That way she ends up sensing evil all the time. What do you say?"

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 1, 2021 4:44 am

Re: The Coast Way

Fighting the urge to roll his eyes, Rift stands behind the little group. Gibberlings? Really? They couldn't burn down that one lady's house instead?

He shrugs. At least it will pay well, although he has a sneaking suspicion that they will expect him to donate to the dead body fund. Gross. Although the one dead guy is up and walking around, so that's... weird. Just really weird. Dead people shouldn't walk around. It's unnatural. He inconspicuously steps away from Dead Guy while still listening to the conversation.

The strange hobgoblin starts speaking to him and Rift doesn't know what to do. The voice doesn't sound like a goblin. It actually sounds a lot like the strange smelly man who had his head chopped off. Why is he talking about pieces of bears? Maybe it's a hobgoblin thing.

"Um, it doesn't seem like a good idea to make a priestess angry," Rift says slowly. Common sense obviously isn't a hobgoblin thing.

Last edited July 1, 2021 4:51 am

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 1, 2021 3:18 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Hello, Khalid, I'm Aiwë. Yes, we'll help."

Khalid smiles shakily and with tears in his eyes. "Y-you will? Oh, what g-g-glorious day!"

Quote:

"I think it may be best to leave at first light, when we are rested and most capable. Do you think Jaheira will be alright that long?"

The half-elf grimaces and takes a moment to find his voice. It comes out very small. "T-tomorrow? I... I d-don't know... I had h-h-h-hoped we might leave as s-soon as p-possible..." He looks down at the table, and then up again. This time his voice is stronger, though the persistent stutter remains. "I'll g-give you 60 gold pieces each instead if we leave t-t-tonight. It's... all I h-have."

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 1, 2021 6:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella bites her lip and grimaces. "We barely survived a gibberling attack earlier today..." she explains, weighing in. "But if we're on the offensive and have even just a short bit of planning, we might be able to handle it. Where was your camp, and where is the Cloakwood?" Stella asks, pulling out her tome and opening it to her map sketch.

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 1, 2021 8:33 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid holds up a placating hand. "I hope not to f-fight at all! The gibberling horde numbers in the h-h-hundreds." He leans on the table. "If we leave now, t-tonight, I believe we will catch up to the horde around midday tomorrow, r-rather than coming across them by n-night."

He takes a glance at Stella's map. "If I may?" he asks politely. "Here is the Friendly Arm Inn. H-here is the Cloakwood. And here is where they captured my w-w-wife." The camp sits roughly halfway between the Inn and the Cloakwood.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ab/5d/2c/ab5d2c66e163737aa40d47ddd63626f0.jpg

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 1, 2021 9:39 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë frowns at the map. After the push they've made, to do another with barely a small rest? But the hoard was moving, and a life was on the line. Two lives. To make sixty gold on one job... But are they still being hunted? She had hoped to stay here longer to put more time between them and the attack. But ignore they are, travelling at night will be better...

"Will the gibberlings not attack in the day? What's your plan for avoiding a fight?"

Last edited July 1, 2021 9:41 pm

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 2, 2021 12:17 am

Re: The Coast Way

The half-elf blinks. "Y-you... don't know? Gibberlings bury themselves during the day. With soft f-feet and great care, it may be p-possible to retrieve her while they sleep." His armored shoulders rise and fall in a shrug. "And if it comes to a fight, better to f-face them in b-bright light."

Jabbbahut

Jul 2, 2021 1:26 am

Re: The Coast Way

.

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d20+4)

(20) + 4 = 24

Jabbbahut

Jul 2, 2021 1:46 am

Re: The Coast Way

Glad that Dieter is mending and that he was able to help some what in that (though that was more due to an inherited gift than Sheemish himself), the blacksmith finally takes a moment to relax. The music from his friends is comforting, as well as being able to get off his feet. But the weight of his failure to help in the attack weighs on him. He wouldn't let it get him too far down, he'd heard stories of the Bloodhunters back home who made rash decisions, heroic, but rash, when they faced horrific odds. Sheemish wasn't that desperate. But he did wonder how much of this was over their heads and just how dangerous that could be. They barely had the money to save one friend. What if they hadn't? And what of Kregguk? He fidgets with a "sleeping" Snitch in his pocket, he didn't have the energy to activate her right now, but maybe after a good night sleep. Though from the sounds of his friends discussion at the other table, that might not be happening any time soon.

Looking around, he notices their two "stragglers" picked up along the way. Memories of flawed tavern dwellers rising to a challenge to save a town came to his mind. While he did despise these two on principle, they had been helpful to point. Rising from his seat, Sheemish pulls up a chair at their table and sits himself down.

Blunt and straight forward seemed the best tactic here. "While our two groups normally wouldn't have joined up under most circumstances, I will admit I'm grateful that we did. You held your own in that fight and it would have been much worse for us without you. Makes up for somewhat for threatening my friends and eating their pie." Sheemish says with a sigh. He then wraps his knuckles on the table (gauntlets had been confiscated earlier). "So what now? We assisted each other in getting here. What is this next job that you spoke of about the Iron Crisis? Who's the employer and whats the goal?"

Xzar

Araklusta

Jul 2, 2021 2:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron merely grumbles into his cup, but Xzar leans forward with a grin that shows all of his teeth. "We're not so different from you, Sheemish." He reaches out a thin finger and lightly taps the artificer on the chest. "You are an intelligent business man. A certified guildsman! You must want this Iron Crisis ended as much as we do. As much as our employers do."

The necromancer's voice drops to a deep whisper. "Said employers are always looking for new talent. Should you join our own... lucrative guild, Monty and I will tell you all we know about the Iron Crisis."

Montaron

Araklusta

Jul 2, 2021 2:57 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Montaron sprays his drink all over the table. He turns angrily toward his companion. "Don't be daft! Ye can't invite just anyone to join us. Yer already hard enough to work with, I don't need to babysit a second fool!"

He looks at Sheemish and growls. "Besides, this one doesn't have the stomach for what we do."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 2, 2021 9:13 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"They do? Elë!" Aiwë laughs. "Most of us are from Icewind Dale. We're barely used to ants and flies!" She turns to her friends.

"It sounds like now is safest. We should hurry!

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 3, 2021 2:02 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"They bury themselves?" Stella asks, curious.

She takes her tome back and flips to a blank page to start an entry on gibberlings and—it wasn't blank...and neither was the next or the next. She draws her lips to a line, navigating the unwelcome notes and scribbles from her family. Finally, she gives up and snaps the tome shut. She...would just have to remember that.

"If they're heliophobic, I agree, leaving now would probably be best."

Wirrow would probably appreciate traveling at night too. At that thought, she stops and tilts her head, then opens her tome to a page on Wirrow and finds Prone to hyperthermia. Next to the note, she scratches another: Heliophobic?

Should she just ask? Probably...Whatever Wirrow's trouble was, it would be important to know if they were going to be traveling together.

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 3, 2021 4:58 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The party sets out into the darkness, once more leaving the comfort of the road to travel the wilderness. Khalid leads the group across rolling hills and plains for about 8 hours before stopping them. With the sky just beginning to brighten with the coming of dawn, the half-elf kicks a small pile of charred wood. "This is where Jaheira and I m-made camp. Of course, there are n-no b-b-bodies. Gibberlings eat their d-dead..."

He wipes his sweaty brow, and then urges the party to continue on. "The Cloakwood is perhaps another 8 hours ahead. Their t-trail is rather o-obvious." Indeed, even to untrained eyes, it does look as though hundreds of the mad creatures have passed through the area.

"Onward!"

The party reaches the top of a rise and get their first glimpse of the Cloakwood. The forest is the largest they’ve seen so far on their journey, but the place seems even more imposing than its size would suggest. It’s easy to see how these woods earned their name: though the sun is now fully above the horizon, so little light can pierce the thick canopy that the entire forest floor remains enveloped in shadow. Anything could be hidden in those trees.

"It’s a little more than 50 square miles, I w-w-would think. Not a large forest, by any means. Not c-compared to High Forest, or the F-forest of Tethyr, or e-even the other local woods, the Forest of Sh-sh-sharp Teeth. B-but it is the most m-menacing one I’ve ever seen." Khalid’s face seems even paler than before, and he’s sweating profusely. "Fortunately, the gibberlings’ trail seems to cling to the e-edges of the woods."

As they get closer, the party sees that a dozen mounds of freshly-turned dirt are piled along the forest’s edge. Each is roughly the size of a small goat, except for one very large one at the center. The arrangement of these strange mounds is chaotic and haphazard, with no apparent pattern to their construction. Dieter and Runeson immediately recognize them as buried gibberlings, a fact that Khalid confirms.

"Th-this can’t be the m-main horde. Wh-wh-what do you all think?"

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jul 3, 2021 5:16 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Why are you stuttering so much? Do you have a speech impediment, I've heard of those before..a unfortunate blight on a being. Dieter asks a little annoyed but mostly curious.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 3, 2021 8:28 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Worse than the blight of rudeness?" Aiwë asks Dieter, a little annoyed but mostly laughing at him. "Is that a big one?" she points at the mound in the middle.

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 3, 2021 9:59 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella was not used to traveling this much...her thin legs protested with every step and her gaze was weary. Getting half as much sleep as normal over the past few days would surely catch up them...but they had made their choice. This was for Kregguk.

Looking over the mounds, she purses her lips thoughtfully, trying to compare what she knew of gibberling behavior with what she knew of other burrowing and hoarding creatures. If they were anything like ants, for example, where would their spoils be...and was there a queen?

Rolls

Nature - (1d20+2)

(20) + 2 = 22

Retroactive Hit Die (during the short rest at the Inn) - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 4, 2021 4:24 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift thinks the mounds are fascinating, although he really doesn't want anything to do with gibberlings. He isn't surprised to hear that they eat their dead. That seems much more natural and reasonable than carrying around the dead bodies. He wouldn't say that to the rest of the group though. That probably wouldn't go over well. Except maybe with the hobgoblin, whoever he was.

Looking around the group, his eyes fall on Khalid, the leader of this quest. The man just wanted his wife back, obviously. Rift thought it was a lost cause. Maybe if they had been anything other than gibberlings, she might still be alive. Going after the monsters to probably find her eaten was almost as bad as carrying around her dead body. What kind of man would risk everything, including a significant amount of money, for a woman who was most likely dead anyway?

Rolls

Perception check on Khalid - (1d20+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 4, 2021 4:32 am

Re: The Coast Way

....No my young rogue friend, my 'bearer' is just some dumb zombie I raise from the dead to be my hands and feet. Well, some are dumber than others you see. Bert, my last bearer was no bright bulb, but he was at least friendly, this current one has a healthy dose of animosity built up. I'm still trying to help him out though."

Archer slaps his own face a few times.

"Quit hitting yourself Hob, that's no way to act around friends. We must be chipper not dour. You don't see me moping about because I died now do you?"

The Happy torch begins burning brighter with all the talk about being happy. Swaying back and forth and creeping down the handle, a small part of Archer begins to smoulder and smoke.

"Ugh, ignore the poor sod of a bearer I have now. Being happy on the outside is a choice we can all make. Oh! Maybe holding Happy would help make you happier? His Happy emotions literally flow over you. I can almost feel it now."

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 4, 2021 7:13 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid chuckles nervously and avoids Dieter's eyes. He sighs with obvious relief when Aiwë steps in.

Quote:

"Is that a big one?" [Aiwë] points at the mound in the middle.

"Erm... N-nobody really knows where gibberlings come from. They only sh-showed up about 10 years ago... So no, I don't think it's a b-b-big one, but you never know..."

Araklusta

Jul 4, 2021 7:18 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Meanwhile, Stella realizes what must be in that large mound.

Jaheira was taken by the gibberlings, and so it stands to reason that other people might have been taken as well. If not eaten, what do the strange creatures do with their captives? The astute scholar realizes that the other gibberlings the party encountered didn't seem to have any sort of reproductive organs. They must have some way of reproducing, especially since there are so many of the little monsters!

She's certain that the key to this mystery will be found within the large mound.

Jabbbahut

Jul 4, 2021 7:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I am a business man, And I’ve found business is more successful when it’s an honest one. Just because my tactics may be different from yours doesn’t mean we can’t share a goal. That’s what got us here isn’t it?" Sheemish says gesturing you the inn. "Same goal to reach here, different styles to make it work. Just remember your style had you lost and about to fight each other." He says matter of factly, and then gestures to dieter, "but we didn’t do much better either." He adds with a laugh.

Then, trying to meet the gaze of both men (though it was hard with the eccentric Xzar), "I’m not saying we have to like each other, but if our goals align we may be able to help each other. If they align" He adds with emphasis.

Last edited July 4, 2021 7:53 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 4, 2021 7:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë frowns, a terrible possibility occurring to her. Gibberlings certainly don't look the sort of creature to use or carry rope... "Khalid... Is it big enough to be Jaheira?"

Last edited July 4, 2021 7:57 pm

Montaron

Araklusta

Jul 4, 2021 8:36 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"I am a business man, And I’ve found business is more successful when it’s an honest one."

Montaron rolls his eyes. "For one, yer wrong. For two, I'm plenty honest. When I promise to kill ye, I always follow through. That's the best business!"

Xzar

Araklusta

Jul 4, 2021 8:49 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Xzar shrugs. "Just because he doesn't want to join our organization doesn't mean he and his friends can't be useful to us, Monty."

Quote:

"Then, trying to meet the gaze of both men (though it was hard with the eccentric Xzar), "I’m not saying we have to like each other, but if our goals align we may be able to help each other. If they align." He adds with emphasis.

The mad necromancer pulls an iron nail out of his robes, then crushes it to dust in his skinny hand. Suddenly a look of surprise and misery crosses his face, and he cries in a high-pitched voice, "Mommy, it broke! Waaaa!!!"

Montaron sighs and stomps on Xzar's foot, causing him to blink back to his normal(?) self. The skinny wizard sifts gently through the iron dust with his fingers. "This is bad for everyone's business. Sure, it might be fun for a while and cause a little chaos - great for pranks - but in the long term..." He shakes his head and flashes a rictus grin. "Nobody wants that. Well, probably someone does. And so Monty and I are going to find that someone, gut them, and use their entrails for garlands. Oh, and revert all the damage done to the economy, of course."

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 4, 2021 8:52 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid swallows hard. "I... d-don't..." He takes a breath and rubs his wedding ring, then grits his teeth. "Yes. It might be big enough to be her."

He takes a purposeful step toward the mounds, armor clanking.

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 4, 2021 9:04 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Startled, Ossein pipes up, "Hold up friend, if anyone is going to do something dangerous, let it be my bearer."

Ossein directs Archer to go investigate the mound

Rolls

Investigation / poking the mound with a stick - (1d20+4)

(12) + 4 = 16

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 4, 2021 9:44 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë grabs Khalid by the arm. "As brave as Elurin!" she praises, referencing the hero of well-known elvish ballads that rescued his wife frankly far too many times. She grabs Archer with her other hand.

"But we need soft feet, remember?" She jerks her head at Wirrow and Rift. "Let us do the work you hired us for." She releases Khalid. She doesn't release Archer.

Wirrow and/or Rift have Bardic Inspiration for a stealth check.

Jabbbahut

Jul 4, 2021 10:24 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish grins, "See! Now that I consider an honest work. Didn’t know Montaron was down for being a hero and guardian of the realm and saving all downtrodden. He’ll be kissing babies next! And you call us goodygoodies."

Sheemish rises from the chair. "I’m a blacksmith, the iron trade is my trade and my fathers trade as well as many others. Putting a stop to whoever is causing the crisis is something I would definitely be interested in. Let me know if you need help. Unless the two of you think you can do it alone again."

Sheemish tosses a coin to one of inn staff and says loud enough for the table to hear.

[b]"one more round for the fluffy guy that kisses babies." And walks away.

]

sheemish casts whisper as he leaves the table Hoping to eavesdrop on their conversation. It allows him to only hear Montaron however, as it is only cast on one person.

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 5, 2021 3:24 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Soft feet? Who's got softer feet than a hobgoblin with rotting feet? They're soft and squishy."

Remembering the promise he made to Keggruk, Ossein steps between Aiwe and the mound, " On second thought, feel free to use me for cover."

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 5, 2021 4:41 am

Re: The Coast Way

Hobgoblin is talking to him again. This time he notices its mouth is not moving. Odd. It keeps mentioning bears. Very odd. He glances at the offered torch. It does seem to burn happily.

"Um, no." He takes a step back, and then adds a belated, "Thanks." What a strange creature.

Thankfully he is saved by Drum Lady asking him to sneak up to the mounds. His heart begins to race. He likes sneaking. He does not like gibberlings. With all the eyes on him though, he can't back down.

He nods to Drum Lady and takes a moment to focus on himself. He tucks his wings tightly against his back. He should have practiced sneaking more with them, since they could throw off his balance. He takes slow, tentative steps toward the mounds.

Last edited July 5, 2021 4:48 am

Rolls

Sneaky feet - (1d20+7)

(8) + 7 = 15

Sneaky feet advg - (1d20+7)

(6) + 7 = 13

Inspiration - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 5, 2021 3:54 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With the extremely disturbing realization that gibberlings likely use people to repopulate somehow, Stella looks a bit sick. She opts to keep quiet, letting Aiwë advise the group and let Rift investigate the mound.

Montaron

Araklusta

Jul 5, 2021 5:26 pm

Re: The Coast Way

OOC:

Where's the Whisper spell? I'm not familiar with that one. One of the new spells? Do you know which book it's in?

Montaron and Xzar sit in silence while Sheemish leaves. After he's gone, the halfling stomps on his companion's foot again. "Ye've got a loose tongue, wizard. Mind it don't get any freer, or I'll make sure ye lose it. Ye think the Zhents want people talking about their business with just anybody? Or recruitin' without their say-so? Yer a durned fool."

The halfling hops off his chair and stomps up the stairs to his rented room.

Araklusta

Jul 5, 2021 5:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Rift easily picks his way between the mounds, making not a sound as he goes. Being the smallest member of the party, he notices that the biggest mound is actually larger than himself. His clawed hands carefully and quietly dig down through the big mound's dirt, and he can't help wondering if one of those gibberlings might be waiting just below his fingers, ready to take a bite out of them. Then he touches something besides dirt. Fabric... Clothes. And... that is a cold, bearded face. No way this person is alive.

Clearing away the rest of the dirt, Rift finds a dead human merchant bound with rope. His body has several horrible wounds where something was clearly trying to eat its way out of him from the inside. The good news, however, is that Rift finds a small purse with 20 gold pieces tied to the man's waist.

All of this is visible to the rest of the party.

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 5, 2021 5:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid lets out an odd sound, half agonized moan and half sigh of relief. "We m-must find her! If she's kept like this, she m-m-might... I don't w-want... We just have to find her!"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 5, 2021 6:49 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë pats Ossein with reassurance and thanks, watching Rift pick carefully through the mounds.

More money is certainly nice, but the dead man was a horrifying find. How long can one survive buried? Probably not long. And those wounds... But Khalid seems certain his wife is alive.

"Where next?" Aiwë urges him.

Last edited July 5, 2021 6:51 pm

Jabbbahut

Jul 5, 2021 7:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish racks his mind for any connections with the "Zhents."

Last edited July 5, 2021 7:58 pm

Rolls

History cueck - (1d20+6)

(8) + 6 = 14

With advantage - (1d20+6)

(7) + 6 = 13

Jabbbahut

Jul 5, 2021 8:07 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish holds a small metal tube to his mouth, creating a slight ring and echo to his speech, as he whispers in a musical sing song tone. The words carry only to Xsar.

"I am Moop! (Gleeful squeak). I am a servant of the dark lord of chaos and silliness. Trust the blacksmith and watch the fun. (Evil cackle)"

jhermsy might be proud of this one Sheemish thinks with a smile. And with that the short spell ends.

[]

: )

Last edited July 5, 2021 8:19 pm

Rolls

Deception - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 6, 2021 4:35 am

Re: The Coast Way

It takes all of Rift's self control to not jump away from the body. Another dead body? Seriously?!

If only he'd been sneakier with the purse, he could have kept it from the rest of the group. They would just spend it on a different dead body. Next time he'd be more careful. He wiggles his fingers in anticipation. It had been a while since he picked any pockets. Maybe that would have to change soon.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jul 6, 2021 4:08 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow, who's been mostly silent the whole journey, quirks a narrowed eyebrow at Khalid's reaction. It seems like he's in denial more than anything. Still, as long as his delusions got them the money they needed to make Aiwe happy and didn't endanger anyone she cared about, she'd put up with them.

Aiwe. Right. Wirrow looks over at the half-elf girl; golden irises now with a red edge to them. When she'd told Aiwe she would be fine, that was before they'd had to go right back to travelling. They... might have to talk or something. In the meantime, she thinks Aiwe's current reaction is a lot more reasonable than Khalid's. The wounded corpse is disgusting, sure, but it's to be expected. That was what the work of monsters looked like.

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 6, 2021 4:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid gestures to the ground beyond the mounds. "The t-trail continues on. Oh, my p-p-poor Jaheira..."

The group avoids the remaining mounds and continues on, following the trail that leads north around the edge of the Cloakwood. After a little more than a half hour, they find the rest of the gibberling horde...

Sprawled before the party are hundreds of dirt mounds. Although most of them are small and identical to the ones they came across before, four larger piles can be seen scattered among them. The sheer number of mounds makes it difficult to find a clear path without disturbing the sleeping monsters.

OOC:

Okay, so there are 4 larger mounds (presumably with a person buried in each). Each mound will need a separate Stealth check (So if you decide to roll Stealth, make sure you specify which mound you approach, #1 or #2, etc.)The DC is only 5, but failure (including a nat 1, regardless of your bonus) will wake the horde. No Help action here, but other bonuses (Guidance, Bardic Inspiration) are okay. They just need to be declared before the roll.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 6, 2021 5:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë catches Wirrow's eye, and suddenly remembers there was one more question she had meant to ask when they were in the Cloakwood last time. Seeing the red ring, she fears she knows the answer. Best to wrap this up quickly and get back to the Inn as soon as they can.

gardensun sent a note to Araklusta,deoelvenmage

The party pauses before the rest of the hoard. Four mounds. Jaheira won't be alive for long if she is buried in one.

"Quiet, creeping feet!" she encourages her friends. "This will be a story to tell back at the Inn for certain!"

Bardic Inspiration to Wirrow, Rift, and a third sneaky person if they want it.

Seeing how soundly the gibberlings sleep, Aiwë feels confident in her own dexterity. She creeps forward toward the closest mound, her drum silent at her waist.

Going for Mound #1

Last edited July 6, 2021 5:44 pm

Rolls

Sneaky sneaky - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Runeson

Catsqui1688 Inactive forever!

Jul 6, 2021 11:09 pm

Re: The Coast Way

I watch the members of my group move forward checking the gibberling’s people (we guess) mounds silently, knowing that my armor would put me at a disadvantage in doing this task. Instead, I watch out for signs of trouble as I grip my warhammer and shield tightly.

Rolls

Perception - Look around for any signs of danger - (1d20+1)

(9) + 1 = 10

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 1:06 am

Re: The Coast Way

In what is a near miss with ironic prophecy, Wirrow almost gets too preoccupied by Aiwe's whispering to keep herself creeping, but she ultimately is fine. She slips in between and around smaller mounds, picking her way to a different one than Aiwe.

Mound 2; might as well be systematic about it all.

Last edited July 7, 2021 1:39 am

Rolls

Stealthing - (1d20+7)

(1) + 7 = 8

Bruh this calls for an inspiration - (1d20+7)

(6) + 7 = 13

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 4:40 am

Re: The Coast Way

Rift doesn't like this. At all.

So many dead bodies. Why?

Holding in a groan, he carefully maneuvers his way through the mounds until he reaches a large one. This time he turns his body so that he is blocking the view of the watching members of his party. His fingers tingle at the thought of lifting a purse, even though it will probably be from a dead person.

Rift follows the pattern with mound 3.

Last edited July 7, 2021 4:46 am

Rolls

Stealth dragon - (1d20+7)

(11) + 7 = 18

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 4:44 am

Re: The Coast Way

Ossein looks around seeing if anyone else was going to stop him from checking out a mound. But seeing that bossy little girl go off, he figured now was the time to find a new bearer.

Mound 4

Last edited July 7, 2021 4:46 am

Rolls

Silent as the dead - (1d20+2)

(18) + 2 = 20

Xzar

Araklusta

Jul 7, 2021 4:30 pm

Re: The Coast Way

[ +- ] The Zhentarim

In response to the mysterious voice he hears, Xzar raises an eyebrow and peers into his drink, a strange grin spreading across his face. "Those the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad! Mad! Mahahahahahaad!"

Several drunken patrons nearby raise their cups in toast, but beyond that nobody pays much attention to the eccentric wizard.

Araklusta

Jul 7, 2021 4:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwe, Wirrow, Rift, and Ossein creep forward. Or, in Ossein's case, forces Archer to creep forward. They each approach a different mound, fortunately with none of the buried gibberlings stirring.

The latter three each find a merchant, similar to the one found earlier, except these three are alive. As the companions clear dirt away from their faces, each merchant begins to stir, eyes widening with mixtures of horror and hope.

Aiwe finds Jaheira. The woman's armor immediately sets her apart, and her half-elven features complement Khalid's. She manages to stifle a groan, and with Aiwe's help she gets to her feet and takes in her surroundings.

Khalid nearly leaps for joy at seeing his wife alive, but at Jaheira's meaningful glare he quiets down, not wanting to wake the gibberlings.

With Jaheira and the merchants standing, released from their ropes, and hushed, they look to their rescuers to see how to proceed. Each captive looks pale and sickly.

OOC:

So those who snuck in now have to sneak out WITH the person they've rescued. Accounting for the other person's weakness/armor/lack of stealth/etc gives you DISADVANTAGE on the roll. Still DC 5 though. If you've got Bardic Inspiration and didn't use it on the previous check, you're allowed to use it here.

Also, Rift can easily pocket his merchant's money pouch if he wants. There's enough going on that he can have advantage on a Sleight of Hand check, DC 10.

Rolls

Mystery Roll - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 5:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stifling a groan of frustration that these mounds don't have any new bearers for him, Ossein has the Archer slowly drag the tied up meatsack back to the safety of the group.

Last edited July 7, 2021 5:56 pm

Rolls

Death isn't as silent with the living (disadvantage) - (1d20+2, 1d20+2)

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

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

Tilrifturrin

Africhik Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 5:59 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Rift is shocked to discover that the body is alive. He feels relief and... disappointment? He carefully starts to lift the body, which is considerably larger than himself. His hand slides into the man's pocket, but he doesn't check to see what he's found. Instead he takes short, hopping steps, wings beating frantically, to drag the man's body back to the group.

Live bodies are definitely more work than dead ones sometimes. But Rift is contributing to the group. Not only that, but he's probably the best at sneaking. Yes, he's definitely the best. And they all knew it now.

Last edited July 7, 2021 6:37 pm

Rolls

Stealth - (1d20+7)

(14) + 7 = 21

Disadvantage - (1d20+7)

(10) + 7 = 17

Stealing some money... - (1d20+7)

(8) + 7 = 15

Stealing advantage (🤞🏻20) - (1d20+7)

(4) + 7 = 11

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Jul 7, 2021 6:54 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë carefully leads Jaheira back to Khalid's embrace. What a sweet end for their tale! As long as there isn't a waiting twist.

"Stella..." she murmurs. "They don't look so good. Do you think they're safe from... You know." For all they knew, the dirt and burying was just extra.

Last edited July 7, 2021 6:59 pm

Rolls

Sneaky sneak (disadvantage) - (1d20+3, 1d20+3)

1d20+3 : (11) + 3 = 14

1d20+3 : (14) + 3 = 17

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Jul 7, 2021 7:23 pm

Re: The Coast Way

A little bit surprised at the fact that so many of the buried people are still alive, Wirrow wrinkles her nose at Aiwe's suggestion, though it makes sense. She'd rather not be there if it happens.

Last edited July 7, 2021 10:42 pm

Rolls

Stealthing return - (1d20+7, 1d20+7)

1d20+7 : (7) + 7 = 14

1d20+7 : (4) + 7 = 11

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 7, 2021 7:34 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella holds her breath as the party members sneak across the field of dirt mounds.

Looking over the sickly people, Stella grimaces. "I'm...not sure...let's get some distance then I'll take a closer look."

Once the group has distanced themselves from the field of gibberling mounds, Stella asks each victim of the gibberlings to inspect them for wounds and offers to administer aid.

OOC:

If any refuse, she'll insist. Any further resistance, and she'll ask for help to restrain them.

Rolls

Persuasion (Let me take a look please!) - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

Medicine (Don't be diseased or infested or whatever please!) - (1d20+3)

(10) + 3 = 13

Araklusta

Jul 8, 2021 4:44 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella finds that the three merchants are carrying some sort of disease. One of the merchants complains about his stomach hurting, and when Stella takes a closer look, she sees something bulge beneath the skin. Putting two and two together, the scholar realizes that if these people are not taken care of, the party is likely going to have corpses on their hands, and possibly gibberling spawn as well.

Jaheira

Araklusta

Jul 8, 2021 4:53 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira holds Stella back with an upraised hand. "Peace, girl. I know what you are looking for. I have been infected the same as these others." She touches Khalid's pale and sweaty cheek. "And my husband has, as well. It is something I can heal, but first I will need rest." She speaks with a thick Tethyrian accent.

In spite of her obvious weariness, the half-elven woman stands straight and tall. She has the scars and calluses of a warrior, but around her neck is the holy symbol of Sylvanus, a symbol that Stella recognizes and knows well. Jaheira is a druid.

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 8, 2021 6:31 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella bites her lip, considering, then replies in Druidic. "Will you survive that long?" she asks, glancing at Khalid. "How is it passed on, and who is in the greatest danger?"

Her eyes light slightly as she remembers that Runeson is a paladin. Kreguuk and Alalla were immune to disease and had powers to heal it in others; perhaps he had such power? She beckons him forward and whispers. "All five of them are diseased. If not cured soon, they'll die. Can you heal any of them?"

Last edited July 8, 2021 7:09 pm

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Jul 8, 2021 9:02 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter takes a step back seeing the bulges under the skin of the victims "abominations" he whispers to himself in utter disgust as hatred towards the Gibberlings. He the proceeds to help stella in any way she requires.

Jaheira

Araklusta

Jul 9, 2021 12:03 am

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira shakes her head and responds to Stella in Druidic. "Gibberlings aren't natural creatures, and they defy every attempt to learn more about them. I'm not even sure how we contracted the disease. I don't know how long we have. It could be up to a month. Or... much less." She looks to her husband and gives him a ghost of a smile, then back to Stella. "Khalid and I are used to the adventuring life; fighting for our lives is an everyday occurrence. I am reasonably sure that one more day will not kill us. As for the merchants... I think they were captured before I was. They may have less time."

Khalid

Araklusta

Jul 9, 2021 12:10 am

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid grips Jaheira's hand, then turns to the bulk of the party. "I th-thank you all for your assistance! Your payment, as agreed. I trust you'll divide this up equally." He holds out a heavy purse.

OOC:

The purse has 480 gold in it, enough for each party member to take 60.

Stella

Carcabob

Jul 9, 2021 2:31 am

Re: The Coast Way

After consulting with Runeson and Letting someone else handle the money, Stella takes a deep breath, closes her eyes for a moment, then turns to address the merchants.

"I have some news." she begins. "If you didn't already suspect it, I believe you have gibberlings growing inside you. If not dealt with soon...you'll likely die. Our friend Runeson, here has informed me that he can heal two of you right now. The third has a choice. Risk waiting for when Jaheira or Runeson have rested and can heal you, or risk some surgery now to stunt the growth until then."

"So. Who's willing to risk the surgery or the wait? You talk first." She points to one and gives them each a turn to speak their mind.

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Jul 9, 2021 4:41 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Someone else may have my share, I didn't come for gold, but something much more valuable."

Happy seems to reduce in size a bit, as if it were worried about an immediate attack. Archer takes advantage to put out the burning embers that are what remains of his left sleeve. An odd noise is heard in the distance, and looking around you notice just how many non-combatants there are in the group now. If we were attacked now, they'd likely all be slaughtered.

"Meat pies! Oh wow, now that's a great memory. I'll give my share to whoever describes to me in great detail their last meat pie. It's been too long, and the thing I miss the most about being meat, funny enough, is eating meat. So, how about it? Any takers?"

Araklusta

Aug 8, 2021 1:49 am

Re: The Coast Way

OOC:

Jumping the game forward! Back at the Inn, you're all level 3, and you got 480 gold from Khalid (60 per hero).

Morning’s rays warm the stone walls of the Friendly Arm Inn, a haven from the road’s hazards. The party finds itself rested and ready to continue their journey. Where they go next and what they do, however, is up to them.

Araklusta

Aug 9, 2021 7:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

As the heroes take breakfast in the Inn's commonroom, they take note of the things they saw here before. The Flaming Fist guards, the noticeboard for adventuring work, and the many patrons eating and drinking.

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 9, 2021 7:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

At one point during the meal the group is approached by Khalid and Jaheira. The two half-elves look considerably healthier since returning to the Friendly Arm Inn and getting some rest. Khalid stands alongside Jaheira, but allows his wife to do most of the talking.

"A fair morning to you." Jaheira's thick Tethyrian accent almost seems to crack like a whip. Her demeanor is more professional than friendly, and her eyes seem to be constantly weighing and judging. "I thank you again for your rescue. You displayed true bravery."

She glances at Khalid out of the corner of her eye and her expression softens somewhat. "My husband paid you well for your efforts. But I wonder..." The druid looks around at each of the companions. "Would you have helped him had he not offered you recompense?"

Ossein Handel

yaroto98 Inactive forever!

Aug 9, 2021 11:48 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sickly green and purple magic surrounds Ossein. Tightening around and around before sluding off, fizzling out, and dissipating.

"This should be easy, but adapting weak human magic into my own, can be tricky...GUH! Of course! It's HUMAN magic, I need a body. Oh, Archie.." Ossein sings sweetly.

The same sickly magic forms around Archie and this times seems to stick. Adding layer upon layer, Archie transforms into a rather grumpy and alive looking old lady. A tendril swirls around Ossein and his cracked shortbow form straightens into a cracked walking cane. Leathers become a sweater and skirt, and when it finishes, The old ladies mouth moves to Ossein's voice.

OOC:

Ossein learned to Disguise Self at will!

"HAHAHAHA, they'll never see me com....Oh, hello there Rift, I was meaning to pass this reward they handed out over to you. Gold was never my thing you see and I'm sure a living body such as yourself needs food, and handkerchiefs and other bodily function things."

Old lady archer pats herself down looking for a pouch of gold.

"Strange, I can't seem to find it... Oh well, I'm sure it's better off wherever it is now."

Turning out a few pockets and even an empty illusory purse, Archie shows that they have nothing on their person other than what you "see".

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 10, 2021 1:12 am

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"My husband paid you well for your efforts. But I wonder..." The druid looks around at each of the companions. "Would you have helped him had he not offered you recompense?"

Stella's starry eyes shift to a withdrawn blue and flick down to her food. She pokes the meal and shifts uncomfortably with the question. Unless more people were in immediate danger elsewhere, Papa certainly would have. But her?

"Well...I...can't speak for the others," she she begins hesitantly, unable to make eye contact. "But with the conditions we've been traveling in, and the deaths we've already had...it wouldn't have seemed worth the risk."

Stella finally looks up at Jaheira and nods hesitantly, as if she needed to confirm her own words.

Last edited August 10, 2021 1:15 am

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 10, 2021 2:53 am

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira gets a sidelong look from gold eyes and a momentarily raised eyebrow for her troubles, as though the answer ought to be obvious. 'Of course not' it says. Wirrow gives an approving glance to Stella; maybe a few more words and reasons given than were necessary, but the correct idea nonetheless.

Wirrow lacks a plate of her own at the table; she looks unbothered by the fact, probably having eaten before everyone else. It would make sense, given how she's set herself up to be as far from the majority of the tavern crowd as possible.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 10, 2021 4:42 am

Re: The Coast Way

"My uncle and our friend died on our way here," Aiwë adds. She frowns up at Jaheira, her expression that of remorse of the situation, but not her choices. "We were hunted by assassins, and they may be hunting us yet. Honestly, leaving the safety of the Inn to rescue you put my charges in danger, of more than gibberlings. I was dumb and hasty, but we needed the money to bring my uncle back. I'm glad we could help you and the others, and if our circumstances were less desperate I think I would have helped anyway. But this time it was dire need that motivated me, not altruism."

Last edited August 10, 2021 4:59 am

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 10, 2021 4:46 am

Re: The Coast Way

As the party arrives safely at the Inn, Aiwë hangs back. "You all go in, and watch each other's backs. I need to check to make sure we weren't followed. Maybe mess our tracks a little. Will you help, Wirrow?" She turns to pale girl.

Last edited August 10, 2021 4:46 am

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 10, 2021 5:47 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Oh; alright," Wirrow replies after a tired pause. Aiwe probably wanted to talk more, or something. "As long as you know I'm not that good at messing with tracks."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 10, 2021 6:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"But you are good at watching and spotting." Aiwë watches the others enter the Inn, feeling a tenseness in her gut release as they all pass the threshold of safety. All but Wirrow.

gardensun sent a note to deoelvenmage

Last edited August 10, 2021 6:37 pm

Rolls

Perception - (1d20+1)

(12) + 1 = 13

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 10, 2021 7:05 pm

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to gardensun

Rolls

Also Perception - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 10, 2021 8:01 pm

Re: The Coast Way

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Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 10, 2021 9:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to gardensun

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 10, 2021 10:19 pm

Re: The Coast Way

gardensun sent a note to deoelvenmage

Last edited August 10, 2021 10:22 pm

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 10, 2021 11:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella hovers just inside the Inn as Aiwë asks Wirrow to stay back and help cover up tracks. Really just another private conversation, she guesses.

Her stomach churns a bit. If they were keeping secrets, it was probably for good reason...right?

Or...did they not trust her? she wonders, glancing back at the two outside.

Maybe it was about Kregguk? Maybe Wirrow really did care for him, and they're just processing things together? But then what were the flasks about?

If it have to do with the assassin or their pursuers, everyone in the group ought to know, so that probably wasn't it...Or they needed time to figure out how to explain it.

She turns away and stares at her feet. Stella did often have a fierce reaction to bad news...they probably thought she might overreact.

Quit it, she tells herself, clenching her jaw and fists. You don't have enough evidence to make conclusions. If you want to know just ask.

But they should just tell her!

"Ugh!" Stella huffs and shakes her fists, blue eye-stars flashing orange.

She'd find out sooner or later, she finally thinks, then strides off further into the inn.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 12, 2021 2:06 am

Re: The Coast Way

deoelvenmage sent a note to gardensun

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 12, 2021 11:06 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Okay...I think that's everything!"

Stella just finished counting the 500 gold pieces spread out across one of the pews in the Temple of Wisdom. She really wanted to recount them, but they would be recounted by Glittergold's clergy, and she didn't want to delay the revival any further, for Aiwë's sake. She starts scooping them all into a pouch—several missing and clattering to the floor.

"Ah, thank you," she says as Aiwë helps pick up some of the dropped coin.

Stella hands the pouch to the musician. It made no difference who handed Miss Mirrorshade the gold, but it still seemed only right that Aiwë got to do it.

Last edited August 12, 2021 11:09 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 13, 2021 1:25 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë bites her lip as Stella hands her the gold, the generosity of her comrades still striking her. She inhales deeply then approaches Miss Mirrorshade.

"My lady, we have enough." She offers the coin pouch with a slight bow.

Last edited August 13, 2021 1:25 am

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 13, 2021 4:09 am

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira's brow furrows as she considers the responses. "Honesty... It is a quality I admire. Having recently suffered hardships of your own, you were yet able to aid us in ours."

She crosses her arms and taps her booted foot as she thinks. After a moment, Khalid puts his hand on her shoulder and offers a smiling nod. Jaheira responds with her own curt nod, then clears her throat.

"Khalid and I would ask for your help again, for a much larger task. One that involves the lives of hundreds, if not thousands of people. We have nothing to pay you, for you already have the funds that were allotted to us. But perhaps, with your uncle back…" She nods at Aiwe before continuing on. "....you may have the inclination to undertake this quest. What’s more, our organization may be able to help you find out more about these assassins you speak of."

She narrows her eyes at the party. "Will you hear of this task?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 13, 2021 8:24 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I'm glad you agree," Aiwë says as they pass the Inn gates, "beccause Stella is totally going to notice that you suddenly look way better. She notices everything. Like this one summer I told her Bhagurahk was gonna give me scarification tats, and she told me not to let him because she 'doubted his dedication to hygiene and sterilization,' but I thought she was being fussy and let him anyway and kept it a secret. Through three layers of cloth she knew I had done it and she knew it was infected!"

"I heard about that for a while let me tell you," Aiwë chuckles fondly. "It worked out though. Stella fixed me up and we tricked Bhagurahk into thinking I was going to lose my arm to the infection. That sure set him straight! Even though Stella felt guilty and told him not long after, he's still the most hygienic person I know. Including Stella!"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 13, 2021 8:25 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë leans toward Jaheira and Khalid. "I'll listen"

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 14, 2021 3:38 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella perks up, both fascinated and hesitant, then nods in agreement. Jaheira and Khalid had given them the opportunity to bring Kregguk back, and if this would impact hundreds or thousands, she would definitely want to help.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Aug 14, 2021 4:57 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Oh yes! Come this way, please!" Gellana accepts the payment, and then her light, quick footsteps echo softly through the temple as she leads them to the room where Keggruk's body rests. "I say, it certainly didn't take you long to raise the funds! Bentley mentioned you were making use of the notice board. Ah, here we are."

The gnomish priestess ushers them into Keggruk's room. "I have everything prepared this time. With such devoted friends and family, I'm sure this fellow will wish to return immediately. We need only this pretty little diamond... a fitting reagent for a spell granted by the Priceless Gem! One of Garl Glittergold's many names..."

She carefully retrieves a glittering diamond from her belt pouch, then takes a deep breath and begins the long spell.

Khalid

Araklusta

Aug 14, 2021 5:01 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Khalid clears his throat loudly and turns with a clink of armor to regard the nearest patrons, an effort to discourage anyone else from listening in on the conversation.

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 14, 2021 5:11 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Surely you have heard of the Iron Crisis plaguing the region. I assure you that it is a real threat to Baldur's Gate and all the surrounding towns. If things become bad enough, it could even affect cities as far north as Waterdeep and as far south as Calimshan."

Even with Khalid keeping an eye on things, Jaheira lowers her voice. "Relationships between Baldur's Gate and Amn have always been strained. A crisis such as this as the potential to ignite a war. Khalid and I have been sent to prevent that from happening, and that means learning as much as we can about the Iron Crisis and putting an end to it, if we can."

She pauses to take a breath and once more examine the members of the party. "We ask for you to travel to Nashkell. Though part of Amn, the town's mine there is the primary source of iron for Baldur's Gate. Your task would be to investigate the town and the mine, then inform us of anything strange that might be occurring there."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 14, 2021 5:41 pm

Re: The Coast Way

War. Aiwë looks around at her companions. Many of them are warriors, and all of them are capable in a fight, but none others are soldiers.

"Why the hush? Aiwë asks, equally softly. "Is the extent of the crisis unknown to most?"

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 14, 2021 5:54 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira shrugs. "We'd rather not feed the rumors of an event we are trying to avert."

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 14, 2021 7:04 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella had originally shrugged off the Iron Crisis. You didn't need iron for hardly anything, and copper and bronze made fine substitutes in many cases. Halla certainly never liked to use any of the metals. But if Jaheira—a druid as well—thought it could cause a war...well, that was a problem.

She opens her tome, but struggles to find an empty page, so she resorts to scratching notes in the margins.

"When you say it could effect Waterdeep and Calimshan," she asks, tilting her head, "are you just referring to trading and supply issues, or that the weakening effect on iron ore is spreading, like a disease?"

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 14, 2021 9:15 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira shakes her head. "We just don't know what the effects could be. And so far we don't understand what is afflicting iron in the area. Its nature is a mystery. And if a war does break out... Violence and strife have a way of begetting violence and strife."

The warrior druid folds her arms once more. "Well? Will you go to Nashkell and investigate the iron there?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 15, 2021 1:50 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë kneels beside the bed where Keggruk lies and clasps her hands tightly. Though Gallana chants a resurrection spell, Shelur finds that the song circling in her mind is a funeral wail.

Keggruk always tries his best to listen to and serve Alalla. Will he listen to the mixed feelings Alalla bears of her and her husband's resurrection, and the caution she preaches of unknown people and the sources of their power? Or will he think of his wife, child, nieces, and tribe, and the duty he bears to them?

You'll soon see, won't you?

Unable to stand being so close to the motionless Keggruk any longer, Aiwë rises quietly and takes Stella's hand to steady her, the mourning song still drifting through the back of her mind.

Last edited August 16, 2021 8:05 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 15, 2021 1:56 am

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

And if a war does break out... Violence and strife have a way of begetting violence and strife."

Shelur smiles wryly, then looks again at her companions. Stella wants to return to Candlekeep to stay. Some are from this area. They all have business here for the next while. She looks around the tavern. None of these people deserved to have to learn to be soldiers either. After a moment's silence, she speaks.

"If my uncle returns... then I will investigate in Nashkell."

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 16, 2021 11:33 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella slips a sheet of waxed parchment into her book to prevent the charcoal from smudging, and closes it. She'd coat it with lacquer later. She'd also need to get a fresh volume, but they'd be short on funds again soon...maybe she could sell her potion?

When Aiwë declares her decision, Stella shakes herself out of her wandering thoughts and nods, taking a small step forward. "I will as well."

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 16, 2021 11:39 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"So. How did the...track-covering go?" Stella asks Wirrow when the archer enters their inn room.

Blank-faced and bleary-eyed, Stella looks like she's trying to order pages scattered on the bed, though it looks more like shuffling. She moves them around, then puts them back the way they were before. Then scatters them again. The exhaustion of travel and lack of sleep was clearly catching up to her.

If Wirrow wanted to talk, she'd talk. If she didn't, that was just fine. She crumples a page slightly slightly, then stops and smooths it out before placing it in a seemingly random pile.

Last edited August 16, 2021 11:42 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 17, 2021 2:40 am

Re: The Coast Way

"The, umm... the tracks should be fine now. We did actually do them. Well, Aiwe did. 'Cause she knows how to do that sort of thing." Wirrow closes the door very carefully behind her, making sure it's shut but obviously trying not to be loud about it. The room dims as light from the hallway is cut off.

"Are you...?" Wirrow half-gestures to the papers, but shakes her head to stop herself. She feels like she should be twitching with nerves, but something seems to be holding it back. The same thing has her looking barely tired to her fellow white-haired adventurer, a stark contrast to Stella's exhaustion.

If Stella wanted to talk about it, she'd talk about it; that's what she always did before.

deoelvenmage sent a note to Carcabob

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 17, 2021 2:51 am

Re: The Coast Way

Well, they were out here to do what they wanted, so she didn't have a problem with investigating a possible crisis-turning-to-war. Another adventure with her friends to prove she could be independent, and it sounded interesting enough that it could have been the plot of one of the many books she liked to read back home. It probably had the potential to turn bloody, like most everything they'd done so far on this trip.

From her spot against the wall, Wirrow shrugs at the idea, but in an affirmative manner. "Same for me, then," she says, low and quiet around people as usual; there's ever so slightly more self-assuredness present in her this time.

Jaheira

Araklusta

Aug 17, 2021 3:36 am

Re: The Coast Way

Jaheira nods and gives a rare smile. "For peace, then! I am sure all will be well with your uncle. Khalid and I have some business yet to conclude hereabouts, but we will most likely arrive in Nashkell in a tenday. Any information you can gather and report to us at that time will aid the cause.

May Silvanus' blessing be upon you all. Farewell!"

With that, Jaheira and Khalid make their way to the door.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Aug 17, 2021 4:10 am

Re: The Coast Way

An hour passes as Gellana's chants fill the small room. The priestess holds the diamond high and releases it. The gem floats suspended in the air, its facets catching and releasing a myriad of sparkles. All at once the gem flares brightly, then goes entirely dun and falls to the floor with a *clunk*.

Gellana sags with weariness after working such a long and powerful spell, but her face lights up with a beaming smile. "Garl Glitergold's blessing has been accepted."

She hands flask of water to Aiwe. "He will want this."

Keggruk

Araklusta

Aug 17, 2021 4:13 am

Re: The Coast Way

Keggruk's chest rises as the orog takes a deep breath. His eyes flicker open and he sees Aiwe near. "Sh... Shelur..."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 18, 2021 12:15 am

Re: The Coast Way

Shelur surges forward. "Uncle! Here, drink this." She helps the large orog sit up and drink, and feels the nightmare end. And then suddenly become real. All at once, she falls to pieces.

"I got them out, just like you told me," Shelur sobs. "Wirrow and I went back for your body. I thought it was just your book I was bringing home, and your armour as a relic. Oh, what would I have told the tribe?" Her orcish words are barely intelligible through her heavy tears. "Khanna would have put your armour in the temple and pushed herself too hard every time she saw it until Ada made her stop. The paladins would have been shaken, and the tribe furious. And Auntie Meagan!" Aiwë cries into Keggruk's lap for some time before she calms enough to speak again.

"I dreamt every night of telling her she was alone again," she says quietly in Common. "Of Matty growing up scared and angry, with your book and your axe." She shudders with grief for her family and that dark future. She looks up at Keggruk. The wizened paladin's face is as familiar to her as music, but now it is shadowed in her mind's eye with the bloat of death. A lingering horror of what she experienced, and what was narrowly avoided.

"You have to go home."

Last edited August 18, 2021 12:16 am

Keggruk

Araklusta

Aug 18, 2021 12:33 am

Re: The Coast Way

Keggruk gladly accepts the drink, then manages to sit up enough to hold Shelur as she weeps, his oversized arms around her. "Peace, Shelur... You need not think on such distressing matters. Torm told me I would return to this life, but I didn't need his assurance. Not with you as my niece!" He gives a chuckle that seems to make his entire body resonate. "Knowing your parents..." When she mentions Maegan, Keggruk nods in commiseration. "She hardly needs a second... Well. Anyway."

The orog takes another drink and looks around the small room. "Stella. I am glad to see you safe as well. I-" He snaps his gaze back to Aiwe, then searches both women's expressions. "Where is Wirrow? Is she... alright?"

He doesn't seem to have acknowledged Aiwe's demand to return home.

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 18, 2021 12:44 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella sighs with relief at seeing Keggruk and Aiwë reunite.

She looks around upon Keggruk's question. When had Wirrow slipped out?

"She's fine," she assures Keggruk with a weary smile. "A little exhausted for a while...but so are all of us really."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 18, 2021 1:34 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë grit her teeth at Wirrow's absence, but released them to echo Stella.

"Tired, but warm and dry and fed," Aiwë confirms for Keggruk, meeting his eyes, "like the rest of us." Then she frowns. "How much will it cost to pay a wizard to teleport you to the Dale? Will that awful pride-stuffed robe of an archmage do it?" She frowns deeper. "You need another rare book for entry." She brightens. "I'll write down a few ballads and war chants. More a book-let, but they don't have any orcish music in their collection! There's another job or two on the board we can do to get the fee for the spell." She hesitates, looking a Stella.

"Do you think I could make enough? Will you help with my spelling?" Stella was better with math and proper spelling.

Keggruk

Araklusta

Aug 19, 2021 2:47 am

Re: The Coast Way

At hearing of Wirrow's wellbeing, Keggruk sighs and leans back against the bed's headboard. "I am glad she's well. If I am to depart for Icewind Dale, I am reassured she has friends such as you two to care for her."

He holds up a placating hand for Shelur. "Let me worry about how to get home. If Candlekeep will not help me, I will find someone else who will. There must be a chapter of Torm in Baldur's Gate. Surely they would spare me some resources. I think a few days' rest will see my condition much improved..."

The orog's good eyelid droops and he sags in the bed. "Carry on with your trip. And mind Wirrow..."

Araklusta

Aug 19, 2021 2:51 am

Re: The Coast Way

A polite knock sounds on the girls' door.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 19, 2021 1:29 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Shelur reaches out and gently runs her thumb over Keggruk's ruined eyelid, fury surging in her gut.

"How cruel, for them to mark you like this!" she mutters through clenched teeth. "Who attacked us, Uncle? Why?"

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 19, 2021 2:54 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Are you...?"

"...Okay?" she finishes. The pages blur, overlap, and meld in her vision. "Ugh!!" She rests her elbows on her lap and buries her face in her hands. "Probably not..." she mumbles.

Quote:

Note to Carcabob

"I mean, I think I've figured that you and Aiwë have something you don't want to tell everyone else...but—" she begins.

Quote:

A polite knock sounds on the girls' door.

"Come in..." Stella says exhaustedly, face still buried in her hands.

Last edited August 19, 2021 2:56 pm

Keggruk

Araklusta

Aug 20, 2021 7:47 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwe's questions fall on deaf ears as Keggruk's chest slowly rises and falls. The orog seems to have expended what little strength he had and has fallen asleep.

Gellana Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Aug 20, 2021 7:50 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Best to let him rest!" Gellana whispers from the hall. "Coming back from the dead is always an ordeal, and he's not exactly in his prime. Unlike that Dieter. That boy was up and off so quickly..."

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 20, 2021 7:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The door creaks hesitantly open, and Sheemish sticks his bearded head through. "Sorry to bother you both..." The blacksmith winces. "I know we're all tired. I just was wondering if either of you happen to have some spare soap...? I smell worse than a full day at the forge!"

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 21, 2021 3:12 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Uhhh..." Stella stares blankly at Sheemish with dull eyes, processing the request.

"Yes...I think so." She slides off the bed and kneels down next to her pack. "Did you run out, or just forgot that you stink until now?" she teases with a chuckle and grin. Unlike the state of her notebook, her pack was neat and orderly. She opens one of the pockets and slips out a bar wrapped in waxed paper.

She groans as she rises to her feet to go hand it to him.

Last edited August 21, 2021 3:24 am

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 21, 2021 3:19 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella beams, sighs, and curtsies. "Thank you, Miss Mirrorshade! You've blessed us immensely," she remarks, glancing toward Aiwë and then at the door, thinking of Wirrow and the others.

She tucks a lock of hair behind her ear and giggles. "Dieter is certainly a lively one. Reckless, but I guess it takes more than even death to keep him down!"

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 21, 2021 9:31 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish grins. "Maybe I'm just tired of smelling like you." He accepts the soap with a grateful sigh. He turns to walk off down the hall, but catches himself and looks back at Stella. "You know... it's actually quite a nice evening out there. Fresh air, cool breeze, sky full of stars... You should go have a walk and see for yourself."

Araklusta sent a note to Carcabob

Rolls

Mystery Roll

Mystery Roll #2

Araklusta

Aug 21, 2021 9:39 pm

Re: The Coast Way

As Stella speaks with Sheemish in the doorway/hall, Wirrow hears the sound of whispered chanting from the hallway. It sounds like a male voice.

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 22, 2021 1:22 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella chuckles and gives Sheemish a sidelong glance. "Hey! I'm not used to hiking all day and night. I'm bound to be a sweaty mess after what we've been up to..."

She glances back at the piles of pages, sickened at the sight of them. "Yeah, some fresh air and stars before bed might do me some good. Thanks Sheemish," she smiles wearily at him and starts to follow him out.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 22, 2021 1:41 am

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow stares blankly on at the exchange. If either of the others pay her the attention amid the talk of sweat, they may notice Wirrow doesn't seem to be suffering from the same problem.

Chanting? "...what is that?" she mutters to herself. Intrigued by--and potentially a bit concerned about--the voice outside, but not wanting to have to push past anyone, she tails behind Stella on the way out the door. She also might be able to talk to Stella more outside...

Last edited August 22, 2021 1:41 am

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 25, 2021 2:39 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish stands back to let the two women pass... and the corridor is silent.

"Ah, Wirrow! I just remembered, there was something I wanted to talk to you about." Sheemish tosses the soap up into the air with one hand and then catches it on the way back down. "Your bow. I think with some adjustments I might be able to make it even more accurate. Not that you need it!" He holds his hands up defensively, soap still clutched in one. "But... you know how things get in the chaos of battle. Do you mind if I have a look at your bow?"

He holds out his free hand expectantly as Stella continues down the hall.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 26, 2021 12:47 am

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow's initial thought is 'no, of course not,' but she pauses to remember how Sheemish was the one to make her bag, and how he'd also been able to do something to strengthen Aiwe's armor.

"I guess..." she mumbles, and removes the bow from her back. "Make sure it's ready before we have to use it next, though." After handing it over, she turns away to continue after Stella.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 26, 2021 1:59 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë adjusts her weapons and myriad of instruments as she walks up the stairs. She had tried to stay by Keggruk's side until he awoke, but the miracle-working cleric had finally kicked her out. A rousing song or three in the tavern or three have lifted her spirits even more, and there's a spring in her step and song on her breath as she makes her way to the girls' room.

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 26, 2021 2:07 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish smiles as he accepts the bow. After Wirrow turns her back on him, his lips continue to twist into a malicious grin. He drops the bow to the floor and kicks it behind him. As Stella descends the stairs, Sheemish reaches into a pouch and retrieves some tiny objects. A moment later, a shimmering green arrow appears in midair before him and with an arcane word and a flick of his finger he sends the missile shooting forward - and lodging itself in Wirrow's back (Wirrow takes 12 points of acid damage).

As the magical arrow continues to pump acid into the ranger, Sheemish smirks and takes a step backwards, raising his hands to begin another spell.

OOC:

Time for Wirrow to roll initiative! If she gets 15 or higher, she gets to go next. If not... 'Sheemish' gets to go AGAIN.

Either way, Aiwe can arrive and go immediately after Wirrow's turn.

Rolls

Acid Arrow vs Wirrow (adv) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

acid dmg to Wirrow - (4d4)

(2244) = 12

Initiative - (1d20+2)

(13) + 2 = 15

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 26, 2021 3:47 am

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 16/28 -> 23/28
AC: 14
Initiative: 17

Wirrow, to her credit, only spends about a second being surprised before killer instincts kick in once again. Golden eyes turn red and blur along with the rest of her body as she turns to a black fog, supported by black winds. (Wirrow casts Zephyr Strike and then takes the Attack action to enter her wraith state. She does not provoke opportunity attacks and can move through creatures, and gains a momentary fly speed of 40 feet, which is increases to 70 by Zephyr Strike.)

The shadowy mist rushes towards Sheemish (whether it's a ruse or the real one, Wirrow doesn't care) and then into him, where he feels something clamp down and break inside of his neck. No outside marks are apparent, but the pain and internally flowing blood indicate all is not well for him by any means. (Upon hitting, uses Favored Foe. 'Sheemish' takes 7 necrotic damage and 8 force damage (15 total), and Wirrow regains 7 hit points.)

Just as quickly as she burst through him, the spectral Wirrow whirls and flies through her most likely disoriented opponent once more, blurring back down the hallway and then turning to even pass Stella going down the stairs; well, pass through Stella. Even with the vitality sapped from Sheemish, the barely-recognizable wraith stopped in front of the starry girl--and in front of Aiwe ascending the stairs--is obviously bothered by the green acid bubbling in her ghostly chest cavity.

Last edited August 26, 2021 4:24 am

Rolls

Initiative, oh no! - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Wraith Form Bite vs Sheemish (Zephyr Strike adv) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

Wraith Bite Damage (Necrotic, Force, Necrotic) - (1d4+3, 1d8, 1d4)

1d4+3 : (3) + 3 = 6

1d8 : (8) = 8

1d4 : (1) = 1

Fake Sheemish's Con Save (DC 10) as instructed by DM - (1d20+0)

(20) = 20

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 26, 2021 4:38 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë gasps as spectral Wirrow pauses between her and Stella. She recovers from the sight in an instant. "We are going to have a long talk after this," she growls, guttural Orcish accent coming through her Common as she draws her sword. She runs up the stairs, ready to face Wirrow's attacker, and pauses at the sight of Sheemish.

"Sheemish? What's going on?" Shelur doesn't think he would attack Wirrow if he learned... things, but she is apparently wrong. "Put down your weapon. Let's talk things over." She spreads her hands as if in peace, ready to drop her sword. She is equally ready to stop Sheemish from getting past her to Wirrow.

Aiwë readies her action to grapple Sheemish if he tries to get past her.

HP: 18/18
AC: 13

Last edited August 26, 2021 4:56 am

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 27, 2021 3:04 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Oh!" Stella freezes for a moment as Wirrow flies through her, then relaxes. That was new.

"Are you coming on the walk too?" Stella asks wistfully. Her eyes widen at the sight of the bubbling acid. "What happened?! Come on, you need some fresh air too..." She takes Wirrow's hand and tries to lead her out while drawing a constellation near the acid. "Cleanse.—Don't worry Aiwë! We're just going for a walk."

(Healing Word. Wirrow regains 5 HP.)

Last edited August 27, 2021 3:05 am

Rolls

Healing Word - (1d4+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 27, 2021 3:22 am

Re: The Coast Way

As Wirrow passes through Sheemish she catches a glimpse of the blacksmith's true form - and find that he's not a blacksmith at all. Unless blacksmiths in the Western Heartlands are skinny little men who wear wizards' robes. At the very least, it's enough evidence to know that this is not Sheemish.

The wizard jerks as Wirrow's spectral attack finds purchase, and he gropes at his neck. "What in the Nine?" When Wirrow flees, 'Sheemish' regains his composure and begins casting another spell. Then illusory face turns to a scowl as Aiwe reaches the top of the stairs. He doesn't respond to her offer to talk, but then suddenly there are three more of him in the hallway, each one moving and reacting differently, and the original is quickly lost among the group of clones.

[ +- ] Mirror Image

"Know this! You deal with a mage. Better to drop your weapons and perish quickly, or I will be forced to make your end a painful one!"

HP 23/38
AC 15

OOC:

Wirrow is up! Then Aiwe. And if you can break his concentration, then Stella will probably be able to join in too!

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 27, 2021 6:19 pm

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 28/28
AC: 14

(Dagger thrown from behind Aiwe. Destroys one Mirror Image copy.)

Last edited August 27, 2021 6:22 pm

Rolls

Dagger - (1d20+5)

(16) + 5 = 21

Mirror Image Redirect - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 27, 2021 8:26 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"And you deal with my family," Aiwë scowls. "Who should be more scared, mageling? LEAVE THIS PLACE!" she demands, wishing she had an imposing glaive to thump. Her foot on the floor does well enough, and her voice shakes the room. The mage is shaken as the hall jumps about, but he remains standing.

Aiwë casts Earth Tremor at second level but the mage passes his save.

HP: 18/18
AC: 13

Last edited August 27, 2021 8:37 pm

Rolls

Earth Tremors Mage Dex Save - (1d20+2)

(16) + 2 = 18

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 27, 2021 8:51 pm

Re: The Coast Way

'Sheemish' raises an eyebrow at Aiwe's spell. "And I thought you all might pose me a problem. You'll have to do better than that!" His next spell throws out magical darts that zip unerringly through the air to bite at Aiwe through her clothes and armor (Aiwe takes 12 force dmg).

HP 22/38
AC 15
Two mirror images left

Rolls

Acid dmg to Wirrow - (2d4)

(42) = 6

Magic Missile dmg to Aiwe - (3d4+3)

(342) + 3 = 12

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 28, 2021 6:01 am

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 22/28
AC 14

(Move closer, Attack Fake Sheemish, dual-wielding. 1 copy is destroyed.)

Last edited August 28, 2021 6:04 am

Rolls

Mirror Image Redirect 1 - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Mirror Image Redirect 2 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Favored Foe Concentration - (1d20+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Shortsword 1 - (1d20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Shortsword 2 - (1d20+5)

(3) + 5 = 8

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 28, 2021 4:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë grinds her teeth. The only way she can take another hit like that is with her best healing. If the mage is pulling punches, then not even then. What is Stella doing? She must be under a spell.

"Help! Guards!" She grips her sword and throws herself forward. If she goes down next blow, it will hopefully be with aid on their heels and Stella freed. "Runeson! Ossein! We're being attacked!"

Her heart sinks as the mage puffs to smoke beneath her sword.

Aiwë destroys the last copy.

Last edited August 28, 2021 4:40 pm

Rolls

Attaaaaaack - (1d20+5)

(16) + 5 = 21

Mirror image redirect - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 28, 2021 5:22 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Ugh!" Stella stomps in tired frustration when Wirrow pulls and Sheemish promptly shoots Aiwë with arcane missiles.

"Fine, stay here and work it out. I'll be outside if you decide to join me...You're so insufferable, Sheemish!" She heads down the stairs. "Vigil!" she shouts back at Aiwë with a frustrated, yet casual wave of her hand.

(Healing Word. Aiwë regains 5 HP)

Last edited August 28, 2021 5:39 pm

Rolls

Healing Word - (1d4+3)

(2) + 3 = 5

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 28, 2021 9:00 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The wizard smirks as Wirrow's and Aiwë's attacks miss him. "No bumbling guards will reach you in time, fools!" With another gesture he sends forth three more glowing missiles, these all aimed at Wirrow (Wirrow takes 9 force dmg).

Rolls

Magic missile force dmg to Wirrow - (3d4+3)

(123) + 3 = 9

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 29, 2021 9:45 pm

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 13/28
AC: 14

(Ye Olde Duale-Wieldeing. Use Bardic Inspiration to turn the first into a hit, reapply Favored Foe. 'Sheemish' takes 9 damage.)

Last edited August 29, 2021 9:48 pm

Rolls

Shortsword 1 - (1d20+5)

(7) + 5 = 12

Shortsword 2 - (1d20+5)

(4) + 5 = 9

Bardic Inspiration on Shortsword 1 - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Shortsword 1 Damage (+Favored Foe) - (1d6+3, 1d4)

1d6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5

1d4 : (4) = 4

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 29, 2021 11:09 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I gotta tell you," Aiwë snarls, striking at the mage. This time her blow is rewarded with blood. "I've never heard a story where it ends well for people who use the word 'fool' like that."

Mage takes 11 damage

HP: 11/18
AC: 13

Last edited August 29, 2021 11:15 pm

Rolls

Longsword - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Damage - (1d8+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 30, 2021 1:57 am

Re: The Coast Way

'Sheemish' staggers as the two warriors' weapons strike home. "Bah! This isn't worth the pay!" He chants a new spell and vanishes from view. Aiwe and Wirrow feel him invisibly brush between them as he runs toward the stairs down, spattering his surroundings with red blood.

[ +- ] Invisibility

OOC:

The Suggestion spell has ended. Stella is free!

Rolls

Concentration saves (both) DC10 - (1d20, 1d20)

1d20 : (7) = 7

1d20 : (5) = 5

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 30, 2021 2:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella stops, her eye-stars flaring a furious red as her mind snaps into clarity.

Hearing footsteps clomp down the steps behind her, Stella sweeps her hand across her lips, brushing her tongue across her fingers to form a wicked shard of ice in them. She continues the sweeping motion while pivoting on her heel and furiously hurls the ice toward the invisible assassin like a comet. "Hyaaa!!"

The shard embeds itself in the air, then explodes into a dozen razor-sharp fractals.

(Ice Knife. Moop takes takes 9 damage and is probably now dying with 1 death saving throw failure.)

Hunching forward and seething, Stella growls watching for any further resistance with an uncharacteristic fury.

Last edited August 30, 2021 2:46 pm

Rolls

ICE KNIFE HOW DARE YOU ATTACK MY FRIENDS AND MIND CONTROL ME (Disadvantage) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

Piercing Damage - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Moop DEX Save - (1d20+2)

(11) + 2 = 13

Sheemish

Araklusta

Aug 30, 2021 4:26 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella's magical icicle strikes the invisible mage at the top of the stairs. As his invisibility spell fades away, it's replaced by a coating of ice, freezing him in place with an expression of shock on his face. Given the size and depth of impaling ice shard, the only thing holding up the lifeless wizard is the ice around his boots.

OOC:

Combat over!

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 30, 2021 4:31 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë races around the corner, nearly running straight into the frozen wizard.

"Stella!" she cries with relief. She looks over the wizard, the ice surrounding him, and the shard in his chest. "...Stella!" she says again, impressed. Then she starts, remembering something.

"Okay what is this," Aiwë demands, gesturing to Wirrow's wraithlike form. "And why are people being paid to try and kill you? This doesn't make any sense! Also, maybe you were already gonna tell Stella what I figured out, but you are officially out of quibbling time, sister-girl." She gestures to the ice shard for emphasis.

Last edited August 30, 2021 4:35 pm

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Aug 30, 2021 5:43 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow widens her eyes at the accusatory tone. The wisps of shadow pull themselves back into her and solidify, and her eyes return from solid red to golden irises. "I- magic?" she answers. "I mostly just sort of did it. And I was going to tell her..."

She checks to make sure no one else is around. "And people want to kill me, again, probably because," Wirrow looks at Stella a bit warily. "Well, that magic, for one."

deoelvenmage sent a note to Carcabob,gardensun

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 30, 2021 6:15 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Grrrrugh!" Aiwë snarls in frustration, gnashing her tuskish teeth. "No, not why do people want to kill you. Why are people being paid to kill you!" Aiwë stomps around, pulling at her braids.

gardensun sent a note to Carcabob,deoelvenmage

"Someone wants you dead, but they don't want anyone to know they want you dead."

gardensun sent a note to Carcabob,deoelvenmage

Aiwë beats a rhythm on her drum, sorting her thoughts into a pattern. Where does this story go? What are the pieces they're missing, and were they foreshadowed somewhere they overlooked? She grins, landing a double beat on the drum.

"It might be because your dad was a vampire. Don't you have his book or something?"

Last edited August 30, 2021 6:18 pm

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 30, 2021 11:42 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella's eyes and stance soften once she realizes they're safe for now, eye-stars going from fierce red to an alert orange mixed with fearful blue.

She looks over the dead wizard, then stares down at her hands. Aiwë says her name a few times then starts talking to Wirrow.

What had come over her? Was that self-defense? Anger? Protectiveness? All of the above? He was trying to flee...but he had still tried to kill them...! Or...Wirrow, specifically. He stopped attacking and was trying to flee, but...others would come either way...so was she really defending?

She suddenly pulls her hands to her chest and turns sharply at Aiwë's words and drumbeats.

"O-kaaaay..." she says, slowly looking towards Wirrow. Her eye-stars still flicker between orange and blue. "That explains...a lot..." She shifts uncomfortably and her eyes finally settle on blue. So not a blood hunter...? Or...

"Wait...what's in his book?"

Last edited August 30, 2021 11:52 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 30, 2021 11:56 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I don't know," Aiwë replies, voice hushed with suspense, "but Kaleel crept 'cross all kinds of dark and dangerous domains and met myriads of malevolent monsters and men." She taps lightly on her drum again, a foreboding march to accompany her words. "Maybe someone is afraid he learned something," she looks to Wirrow, "and that he left it to his daughter."

Last edited August 31, 2021 3:28 am

Flaming Fist Soldier

Araklusta

Aug 31, 2021 4:20 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Abruptly a clatter of armor and weapons fills the stairway as a handful of men wearing the emblem of the Flaming Fist ascend the stairs. The one in the lead scowls at the three women. "What's happened here? And - is that man... dead?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Aug 31, 2021 6:35 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"I should say so!" Aiwë declares, sweeping in front of Stella to protect her from their glares. She probably isn't very comfortable with the fact she killed the man, however many ways Aiwë can explain he had it coming. "He attacked my cousins in their room! They're lucky I showed up and I'm lucky they're as good as they are, else you'd have found three bodies later tonight and not much else!"

She gestures freely, showing the magical singe on her clothes and her shaking arms. One more blow like the last, and Keggruk would be bringing her armour home.

Last edited August 31, 2021 6:39 pm

Rolls

Persuasion (nothing sketchy from us sir and also where were you?) - (1d20+5)

(15) + 5 = 20

Stella

Carcabob

Aug 31, 2021 6:44 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella gasps, pulling her hands to her chest again and frightfully turning to the noise of armor and weapons.

"...He...t-tried to kill—" Stella starts to explain to the men, then struggles to take some deep breaths. She's grateful when Aiwë steps in.

What if there were more assassins? What if these men were in disguise too?!

She turns to the ice-covered mage with a shaky hand and murmurs an arcane spell, opening her eyes to magical energies. (Stella casts detect magic to see if the mage or any of the guards have any magic covering them, specifically looking for illusion.)

Last edited August 31, 2021 6:45 pm

Flaming Fist Soldier

Araklusta

Aug 31, 2021 7:52 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The soldier puts a a gauntleted hand to his forehead and sighs. "Now look, you shouldn't take this personally. I'm supposed to ask questions. Okay, so someone has been killed. Do you know the man? Why would he be after you?" He takes a closer look at the frozen statue and grunts. "I recognize him. Tarnesh, wasn't he called? Showed up yesterday, spent most of his time in the common room downstairs. I've been telling Mirrorshade we need to do more about spellcasters. Not everyone needs a weapon to be deadly." He pokes the ice surrounding Tarnesh's chest. "As I'm sure you three are aware..."

Araklusta

Sep 2, 2021 1:31 am

Re: The Coast Way

To Stella's arcane vision, there is a faint glow around the dead mage, no doubt from the druid's own spell. Several pockets of his robes also glow, indicating something magical stowed within.

The guards, on the other hand, show no signs of magic.

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 2, 2021 1:42 am

Re: The Coast Way

"I don't know him, though I remember seeing him now that you say so. As for why... maybe revenge or spite? Our parents are powerful and important people."

Aiwë thinks out loud for the guards, but after saying it she doesn't think it's true. The target had definitely been Wirrow, and she and Stella simply collateral. Though the part about their parents may still play in. Wirrow had been protected by legendary heroes her whole life. Now she's on her own and far from them, save an aged orog she pushes away. The timing makes sense. But how long had the assassins been waiting? And how did they know she was leaving Icewind Dale?

Flaming Fist Soldier

Araklusta

Sep 2, 2021 2:39 am

Re: The Coast Way

The Flaming Fist soldier's eyebrows rise. "Powerful and important people? Seems like some days you can't throw a stone without hitting some noble's nibling. Well, if I were you I'd get back home. Sounds like you're safer there than wandering about in the middle of nowhere." His voice has fallen into a bored drone. He doesn't seem to keen on his position here.

He looks to the rest of the squad. "Well, let's get this cleaned up. And I suppose someone should file the paperwork. Any volunteers? I can't, I need to go talk to Mirrorshade. Fine. You do it." He points at a random guard. "You know how the Grand Duke likes things square. Hop to it!"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 2, 2021 6:36 pm

Re: The Coast Way

As the guards begin carrying on with their work and the mage's body starts to thaw, Aiwë also gets to work.

"I don't know about you but I think it's probably time we get on our way." She chips the mage loose from the floor and lays him down before he falls over and becomes any more grisly than he is. "I have a small amount of shopping that needs doing, and Wirrow and I need to say goodbye to Keggruk. Any other last minute errands that need doing?" Starting with his boots, Aiwë searches the mage for valuables and clues.

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 2, 2021 11:14 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella's eye-stars have returned to their normal violet. She had more processing to do, but no one seemed to think killing the assassin was a bad thing. They needed to focus on getting moving and preventing any more attacks.

What could Wirrow or her father have possibly known that could be so...dangerous?

"Does he have...a spellbook on him?" Stella asks hopefully. After Candlekeep, Stella's was filled cover to cover—with many leaflets haphazardly stitched in. "If he doesn't, I'd like to buy some extra paper and ink, if we have the money..."

Last edited September 3, 2021 12:57 am

Araklusta

Sep 3, 2021 1:26 am

Re: The Coast Way

As the guards stomp off to perform their various duties, Tarnesh's corpse is easily searched. Though there is no spellbook to be found, Aiwe discovers a small handful of scrolls within the mage's deep pockets.

[ +- ] Scroll of Color Spray

[ +- ] Scroll of Mirror Image

[ +- ] Scroll of Charm Person

The last scroll Aiwe finds is mundane rather than magical, but far more intriguing.

[ +- ] Bounty Notice

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 3, 2021 2:36 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella takes the scrolls from Aiwë as she pulls them out and identifies them. Her eyes widen at the contents of the last one.

"So it's all of us then," she murmurs. "Us from Kuldahar, that is. But why?! And who? Also, do self-serving people really refer to themselves as 'of evil intent'?"

Stella gasps suddenly. "Wait, where's Sheemish?" She immediately heads towards Sheemish's room to look for him.

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Sep 4, 2021 3:00 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish is not in his room. A stressed search about the inn for the missing artificer reveals little of what may have befallen him.

Inquiries to Bentley Mirrorshade are met with frantic apologies. "Pardon, young misses. I've just heard about the happenings upstairs. I am horrified that such trouble befell you in my establishment! Please, let me make it up to you!" He begins searching his own pockets, pulling out an assortment of spell components. "I will find your lost blacksmith right this instant. Do you have anything of his? A lock of hair, a possession of his. Perhaps a portrait of him?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 4, 2021 3:48 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë spins and points to the rune carved into her armour near the base of her neck. It shimmers slightly with Sheemish's power. "He made this. Will it work?"

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Sep 4, 2021 2:46 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Ah! Yes, most fascinating..." The gnome hops up on a chair to have a closer look at the rune. "I believe this will work."

He puts one hand on the rune while holding up a glass marble, and chants a divination spell. His eyes milk over with purple light as he gazes on some distant scene.

"Hmm... I think I see... Yes. Oh dear. He's tied up. Somewhere outside... Not much light. I'd guess within a copse or forest? I think the young man is unconscious. And... I can hear some faint voices. Ah yes! Definitely Goblin. Don't speak it myself, but I've heard it enough times..."

The little wizard continues peering through his magical sensor for a few more minutes, but garners no more useful information.

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 4, 2021 3:46 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella keeps a hand to her mouth, holding her breath as Bentley divines Sheemish's whereabouts. She finally takes a deep breath when the wizard determines that the artificer is alive.

"He couldn't be too far..." she says to Wirrow and Aiwë. "Maybe that goblin encampment we passed the other day? But why would he be there and if—well...why are they keeping him alive?" She groans, closing her eyes and dropping her shoulders. "Bait?" she grimaces.

She suddenly trembles and buries her face in her hands, trying to cover the onset of tears.

They shouldn't have stayed the extra day...What were they supposed do? Why were they being hunted?! This wasn't how things were supposed to be!!

The weight of everything bears down on Stella, a toppling bookcase she can't hold up any longer.

She backs up to the wall, slides down to the floor, and pulls her knees to her chest, trembling. Sparkling tears flow from dimmed eyes—eye-stars black between struggling sobs.

Last edited September 4, 2021 3:48 pm

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 4, 2021 5:19 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Can you tell what direction?" Aiwë asks the gnome. Seeing Stella collapse and Wirrow standing awkwardly, she looks at Wirrow and jerks her head toward sobbing Stella. She turns back to the wizard. "We're going after him right away. Is there a shield I can borrow? Please sir, we have to hurry."

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 4, 2021 5:32 pm

Re: The Coast Way

reaching his hand down Dieter emerges from the background "Get up we have goblins to hunt and friends to save. Lathander watches over us we cannot fail" Dieter says bluntly to Stella but his words are deeply shadowed by care and concern.

Bentley Mirrorshade

Araklusta

Sep 4, 2021 5:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Bentley hops down from the chair. "Direction? Erm, no. I'm not at all sure about that. But where magic fails, keen eyes may succeed. I certainly remember that from my adventuring days. Maybe you could check the surroundings of my Inn for tracks?"

At Aiwe's request for a shield, the short wizard beckons over one of the Flaming Fist soldiers. "Give this woman your shield. Come on, man, be quick about it. I'll see that you're compensated!" The soldier hands over his shield to Aiwe. It is made of stout wood and reinforced with metal, the Flaming Fist emblem painted onto its face. There are minor scratches and blemishes, enough to show that it has withstood the test of at least one battle.

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 4, 2021 11:57 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Started by Dieter's appearance, Stella suddenly looks up at him with tearful eyes, then stares at his outstretched hand.

Dieter had been through death, yet was not hesitating to keep going, even with how blind they were. It reminded her of the stories of Mama and Papa...

"The foolish fear nothing or everything, and inevitably act accordingly," Grandpa Arannis' words echo in her mind. "The courageous fear what must be feared—and often act contrary."

The thoughts sparked anger inside. Was everything trying to turn her into her parents now?!

She sobs once more, sniffs, then magically cleans her face with a wave of one hand and takes Dieter's with the other. She looks up into his eyes as he pulls her to her feet and sees no judgement. No expectation. Just understanding, and a goal in his sights.

She breaks eye contact and pulls her hand away to hold her arms to her stomach. She gazes to the side, still unnerved as her eyes begin to flick back and forth in agitated thought.

"I'll...get my things..." she says quietly.

Last edited September 5, 2021 12:01 am

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 5, 2021 3:10 am

Re: The Coast Way

Moving to Aiwe Dieter folds his arms "she will learn that death is not to be feared, it is living which is most cruel. we should start looking for tracks."

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 5, 2021 11:49 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë watches Stella go as she settles the shield onto her arm. Finding out that they have a bounty on their heads isn't something she expected, but... can she really say she's surprised? She's been targeted before as Alalla's daughter, and she's now far from the protection of the Cagebreakers. And all this fighting, even death? Aiwë knows firsthand that the civil places of the world are protected with blood.

Stella has only ever lived in such a place, and was kept secure and safe when visiting the Blacksheafs. It's obvious Stella had expectations of this trip, and it's turning out to be far from the blissful escape from her parents she was hoping it would be.

"She will learn that death is not to be feared, it is living which is most cruel." Aiwë sighs.

"I think she's learning that right now..." Aiwë knocks on the side of her drum. "I better go with her, to be safe. Wirrow is best with tracks, anyway." She nods at the two and hurries off after Stella.

Even so, she keeps an eye out for signs and clues as she goes.

Last edited September 6, 2021 3:21 pm

Rolls

Tracking (survival) - (1d20+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 6, 2021 3:31 pm

Re: The Coast Way

When Aiwë catches up, she finds Stella scooping up mounds of loose pages. She pauses to briefly skim over one, then shoves it haphazardly into her pack, followed by another and another.

Dearest Stella, I hope . . . courage . . . bow . . . tremendous . . . growing up . . .

Glen's inky handprints.

. . . Halla . . . Arranis . . . Ilmadia . . . watching . . .

An ink spill.

. . . dangerous . . . watchwoman . . . learn . . .

A clean sheet of paper signed Lily.

Stella hesitates, about to read it, then notices Aiwë enter and shoves it in with the rest. She hefts her pack onto her shoulder and scoops up her bow and quiver.

"Ready..." she mumbles.

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Sep 6, 2021 10:00 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow, true to form, remains perfectly (and awkwardly) still during the guardsman's interrogation... and Stella's emotional breakdown... and until everyone else has finally left the hallway to retrieve their things. She'd never seen Stella cry quite like that before, and the feeling the sight leaves her with is not a good one. Mixed in with it is a desire to fix it. Most preferably by killing whatever caused it.

She picks up her bow from the end of the hallway, and then slips into the room with Aiwe and Stella to get her own things.

As Wirrow does so, blood bubbles up out of one of her hands. It roils around for but a second, glows with a soft light, and then sinks back into her. Wirrow doesn't even bat an eye at it. (Wirrow casts Pacify, and regains 11 hit points.)

[ +- ] Pacify

She then raises the same hand to signify she's ready, and offers the magic to Aiwe as well. "I, uhh... if he hurt you too badly, I can do that for you."

Last edited September 6, 2021 10:06 pm

Rolls

Healing - (1d10+2)

(9) + 2 = 11

Sheemish Tracking - (1d20+4)

(19) + 4 = 23

Aiwe healing - (1d10+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 6, 2021 10:15 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë holds out her hand and whistles admiringly at the eerie magic, glad for the healing and the distraction from Stella's gloom.. "Any sign of Sheemish? I didn't see anything."

Last edited September 6, 2021 10:20 pm

Araklusta

Sep 7, 2021 3:09 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow's eyes trace every detail in the dirt as the group exits through the Friendly Arm Inn's large gate. Where Aiwe found only broad tracks of general passersby, the ranger finds more significant clues. Sheemish is no small man, and his boots have some tell-tale craftsmanship, signature modifications made by the artificer himself. Wirrow easily follows his path North, around the outside of the Inn's wall. From the gait of the boot prints, it seems that Sheemish passed this way rather confidently, as though he expected no danger at all.

The further the party gets from the Inn's gate, the darker the night becomes. Still, Wirrow's eyes are able to pick out the trail, and soon the adventurers arrive upon the scene of a scuffle. Several more boot prints join those of Sheemish, laid out in the dirt in chaotic fashion. There are several dark stains on the ground, and the smell of blood taints the air. What's more, in the close vicinity the party finds several arrows stuck in trees or splayed out on the ground.

The boot tracks of Sheemish's antagonists lead deeper into the woods, with signs that they dragged the unfortunate blacksmith that way. From the state of the scene, this all must have happened within the last couple of hours. The ones who waylaid Sheemish may not have gone far.

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 7, 2021 7:25 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Wirrow slow down! We are not the only creatures out tonight. What use are we to our friend if we too become prey." Dieter warns. He tries to scan the darkness himself "my eyes cannot see in this darkness we must be extra vigilant or risk a flame"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 7, 2021 9:24 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Shelur withholds a fond smile at Stella's haphazard piles of paper. Zenithral's daughter, for certain. Why is that so bad?

She opens her mouth to share a story, to try and strengthen and bolster the druid, but the look in Stella's eyes says she's likely to have deaf ears. Aiwë closes her mouth, and follows in uncomfortable silence.

"He left so confidently," Aiwë muses over the tracks. "A walk in the night air, just like Stella. The wizard must have bespelled him." She peers over the site of the scuffle, trying to glean more information. She sighs with irritation and mutters to herself, "dirt doesn't read nearly so well as snow." She stands and draws her sword.

"Shall we go? Stick near us, Dieter," she smiles, eyes reflecting red under the dim moon, "and we can light the fight for you when it begins."

Last edited September 7, 2021 9:27 pm

Rolls

Tracking (survival) - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Araklusta

Sep 8, 2021 2:54 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The group continues on, closely following the tracks of Sheemish's assailants. From the look of things, there are perhaps a handful of blacksmith-nappers.

A warm breeze rustles branches and leaves, making the dark trees sigh as they sway. Every so often a faint ray of moonlight skitters across the forest floor. Crickets and frogs sing their music from all about.

Those adventurers for whom the night's darkness is but a mild inconvenience spy a broad figure just up ahead, nearly hidden beside the trunk of a tree. But just as they notice it, the figure apparently sees them as well, for it shouts out in Goblin and points in the party's direction. Immediately after the cry of alarm shatters the calm night, the stomp of boots and the clatter of metal follow. In a mere moment several more humanoids - hobgoblins all - join the first, weapons at the ready!

Rolls

Mystery Roll

Araklusta

Sep 8, 2021 4:02 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Round 1 Player Phase!

OOC:

Alrighty, back to car-crash-timey-wimey-player-phase-fighting-stuff!

Green diamond means you can engage in melee this round. Red is second rank, so a bit further back and protected by first rank, reachable by ranged attacks and/or exceptional speed. Watch out for opportunity attacks though if you do try to speed your way to them...

Ready steady GO!

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d0/5e/48/d05e48d249916055108a128f002abefb.jpg

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Sep 9, 2021 1:11 am

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 24/28
AC: 14
Back rank, but within range to move up if needed

[ +- ] Ensnaring Strike

Wirrow immediately springs into motion, eyes flashing red like Aiwe's and yet differently. A quickly nocked arrow shrieks forwards and slices at the hobgoblin. While the wound may not be critical, blood sprays from the ugly creature, and when it hits the ground, a shaking occurs. Then, twisted bones shoot up from the ground around it, caging it in place.

(Cast Ensnaring Strike, Shoot le Hobgoblin Captain. HobCap takes 8 damage, and must make a Strength save or be restrained and stuff (see spell description))

Last edited September 9, 2021 1:22 am

Rolls

Longbow - (1d20+7)

(16) + 7 = 23

Longbow Damage - (1d8+3)

(5) + 3 = 8

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 9, 2021 4:10 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Blast! Don’t let them circle around us!" Dieter shouts stabbing at the captain

Dieter deals 23 damage to the captain and it must make a CD 13 strength check or become disarmed on its main weapon!

hp19/19
Ac 16
Sticking close to Aiwë

Last edited September 9, 2021 4:16 am

Rolls

Attack 1 captain - (1D20+5)

(13) + 5 = 18

Opportunity attack captain - (1D20+5)

(17) + 5 = 22

Disarming attack damage 1 - (1d8, 1d10+3)

1d8 : (1) = 1

1d10+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Opportunity attack damage - (1d10+3)

(9) + 3 = 12

Pole arm master - (1d20+5, 1d4+3)

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

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

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 9, 2021 4:33 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stuck in her thoughts as they start to travel, Stella starts to relax and becomes enamored with the sights and sounds of the night. Perhaps she did need a walk.

And then the hobgoblins attacked.

She instinctively shrugs her bow off her shoulder and retreats behind the others. Anger and adrenaline surge through her, and stars above she communes with them. Her eyes alight with points of light, followed by her neck, shoulders, and sides, then elbows and hips, and knees, and finally feet, hands, and bow. A living constellation.

She gasps at the transformation, mouth letting out a puff of glowing white stardust, reaching for her quiver, she finds that she draws not an arrow of wood, but of light! She takes an archer's stance and fires one, then another, trying to follow Wirrow's lead.

Her arrows streak across the battlefield like shooting stars—and like shooting stars are gone in an instant. They fly harmlessly past, leaving a fading trail of stardust.

HP: 17/17
AC: 13
Back rank

Last edited September 9, 2021 4:46 am

Rolls

Guiding Bolt vs Captain - (4d6)

(2623) = 13

Starry Form Archer Attack - (1d20+5)

(4) + 5 = 9

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 9, 2021 6:40 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë watches all that happens around her with a grin. Wirrow's bones and Stella's stars are wondrous and new, and Dieter is remarkable in his valiance so shortly after death. She vocalizes a melody inspired by the sights, focusing her energy for her own contribution. The death of the hobgoblin captain.

"Stand fast! They don't know who they're dealing with!" she calls, then continues her singing, a rising melody like the rising of constellations in the sky. Nearby, Stella finds herself bosltered.

Hobgoblin captain takes 10 damage and dies. Stella receives Bardic Inspiration

HP: 18/18
AC: 16

Last edited September 9, 2021 6:46 pm

Rolls

longsword Attack v captain - (1d20+5)

(12) + 5 = 17

damage - (1d8+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Araklusta

Sep 9, 2021 7:15 pm

Re: The Coast Way

The hobgoblin leader raises his two-handed sword high and lets out a battlecry. Together with an ally on either side he charges forward as his two remaining warriors loose arrows. One missile grazes Wirrow's shoulder (Wirrow takes 5 dmg), and another punctures Stella's thigh (Stella takes 9 dmg). Wirrow's own shot takes the hobgoblin captain in the hip, a slight wound, but as blood falls to the ground the soil begins to churn...

Dieter's expertly-set pike deals a far more grievous wound to the captain, but the trio of hobgoblin warriors press forward with tenacity. For all their brutish appearance, these goblinoids show respectable skill with their weapons and tactics; as one swipes at Dieter from the side, the leader thrusts his large blade forward and into the young fighter's gut, dropping him to the ground (Dieter takes 23 dmg and falls unconscious).

Energized by his victory, the leader and his two cronies turn to focus on Aiwe. The lone bard doesn't flinch, but with honed determination waits for her chance to strike.

The forest is lit suddenly by a streak of light fired from Stella's bow. In the sudden clarity of vision, even Dieter with his human eyes can see the bones burst from the earth, clacking together to form a hindering cage about the hobgoblin leader.

And then, in that moment of confusion, Aiwe takes the leader's head from his shoulders with one swing of her longsword, a song of triumph on her lips. The two cronies curse in Goblin and take steps to either side, flanking Aiwe. She doesn't last long under that pressure, and falls with a deep slash to her collarbone (Aiwe takes 26 dmg and falls unconscious).

With the two front defenders of the party down, the remaining four hobgoblins size up their next targets: Wirrow and Stella!

Rolls

HobCap vs Dieter - (1d20+4)

(15) + 4 = 19

Dmg to Dieter (w/ Martial Advantage) - (5d6+2)

(36336) + 2 = 23

HobCap vs Aiwë - (1d20+4)

(1) + 4 = 5

Hob1 vs Aiwë - (1d20+3)

(15) + 3 = 18

Dmg to Aiwë (w/ Martial Advantage) - (1d8+1, 2d6)

1d8+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

2d6 : (52) = 7

Hob2 vs Aiwë - (1d20+3)

(18) + 3 = 21

Dmg to Aiwë (w/ Martial Advantage) - (1d8+1, 2d6)

1d8+1 : (8) + 1 = 9

2d6 : (21) = 3

Arch1 vs Wirrow - (1d20+3)

(17) + 3 = 20

Dmg to Wirrow - (1d8+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Arch2 vs Stella - (1d20+3)

(11) + 3 = 14

Dmg to Stella - (1d8+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Araklusta

Sep 9, 2021 9:28 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Round 2 Player Phase!!

OOC:

Dieter and Aiwe are down, and Stella and Wirrow are both injured! But at least the captain's gone. He was going to give his buddies some bonuses this round!

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/96/96/68/96966848db9de73f9d8a0714fd723b8d.jpg

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 9, 2021 9:44 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë's eyes open and she slashes out with her sword at the hobgoblin approaching Stella. Her guttural shout of rage shakes the ground as she stands once more.

Aiwë uses Relentless Endurance!! Hobgoblin 1 takes 4 damage. Both hobgoblins pass their dex save vs Level 1 Earth Tremors, but the ground 10 feet around Aiwë is now difficult terrain. Bardic inspiration for Wirrow.

HP: 1/18
Ac: 16

Last edited September 9, 2021 9:50 pm

Rolls

Opportunity attack v H1 - (1d20+5)

(18) + 5 = 23

Hobgoblin Dex saves 1, 2 - (1d20+1, 1d20+1)

1d20+1 : (12) + 1 = 13

1d20+1 : (16) + 1 = 17

Opportunity attack damage - (1d8+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Sep 9, 2021 10:11 pm

Re: The Coast Way

HP: 19/28 ->+11
AC: 14
Ended next to the archers

Wirrow growls in turn; not as guttural and fearsome as Aiwe, but a threat in its own right. She vanishes into a red-eyed mist once again, and rips at the one, two, three of the hobgoblins, an attack only one of them manages to dodge away from. Wirrow comes to halt next to the pair of archers, glaring them down, almost daring them to fight her over her emotionally-damaged Stella and physically-damaged Aiwe.

(Wraith form time again! (immune to opportunity attacks, once again) Wirrow flies through both melee attackers nearby, and into one of the archers, where she reforms. Hobgoblin 1 takes 6 necrotic damage, and Archer 1 takes 5 necrotic damage, both of which heal Wirrow.)

Last edited September 10, 2021 4:59 pm

Rolls

Wraith Bites vs Hobgoblin 1, 2, and Archer 1 - (1d20+5, 1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

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

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

Damage against Hobgoblin 1, Archer 1 - (1d4+3, 1d4+3)

1d4+3 : (3) + 3 = 6

1d4+3 : (2) + 3 = 5

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 10, 2021 6:38 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella fires another arrow of streaking stardust, but overshoots once again, not used to her new form.

She sees Dieter and Aiwë take lethal wounds. While Aiwë somehow manages to stay standing, Dieter begins to collapse. Stella hurries forward and catches him from behind.

Grunting under the weight of him and his armor, she quickly taps out the five stars of the Sleepless Knights. It flashes as she pushes the warrior upright, his wounds shining and leaking stardust as they seal, letting him back into the fray.

(Healer Feat. Dieter regains 13 HP)

HP: 8/17
AC: 13
Just behind Dieter (half cover?)

Last edited September 10, 2021 10:20 pm

Rolls

Healer - (1d6+8)

(6) + 8 = 14

Starry Form Archer Attack vs Hobgoblin 1 - (1d20+5)

(7) + 5 = 12

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 10, 2021 8:28 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter regains consciousness he gets up and spits on the captain’s corpse at his feet "You can’t kill me! You can’t kill ME!" he shouts in rage he grasps a hand axe from his waist and throws it center mass at one of the despicable warriors before lashing out at the other

Action SUUUUUUUURGE imma firing my laser! Dieter kills hob 1 and misses second

AC 16
Hp 13/19

By Aiwe

Last edited September 10, 2021 9:33 pm

Rolls

Hob goblin 1 throwing axe - (1D20+5, 1D6+3)

1D20+5 : (18) + 5 = 23

1D6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5

Hob goblin 2 pike to the face! - (1D20+5, 1D10+3)

1D20+5 : (10) + 5 = 15

1D10+3 : (7) + 3 = 10

Araklusta

Sep 12, 2021 1:33 am

Re: The Coast Way

Round 2 Summary

The two nearest hobgoblins step over the fallen bodies of Dieter and Aiwe and advance on the party's back row with toothy grins. But Aiwe, somehow clinging to consciousness, manages to slice one of them across its hamstring from behind, then magically causes the ground quake and tear at itself.

The injured hobgoblin, crooked curses streaming from its mouth, stumbles away from the spell and slashes at Stella just as she attempts to loose her shining arrow. Stella manages to duck away from the monstrous soldier's swing, but in so doing abandons any hope of loosing her arrow cleanly. The magical bolt flies into the sky like a shooting star. Moving quickly, Stella slips past her adversary and pours healing starlight into Dieter.

The young warrior rises just in time to protect Stella as the two hobgoblins - legs still shaking from Aiwe's spell - turn in pursuit. One falls with a handaxe hurled deeply into its chest, and then a with the pike gets the other's attention.

The surviving hobgoblin raises its shield and peers over the rim at the adventurers before it. Two elvish women, one who can barely keep her feet and another who can't shoot straight. The true threat is the man with the pike, who has already proven himself a capable fighter. Surely with help from the archers these three will be made short work of... The hobgoblin strikes out at Dieter, but even as it feels its sword sinks into flesh (Dieter takes 2 dmg), it pauses as an alarming thought occurs to it:

Wait, but weren't there four adventurers?

The hobgoblin glances around quickly for Wirrow, then flinches in disbelief as it sees a murky, wraithlike form shrouded over one of the dead hobgoblins. The specter looks up with crimson eyes, blood somehow dripping from its ethereal mouth, then blips forward in a series of terrifying reappearances. The hobgoblin falls away from Wirrow's horrible form, just barely avoiding the bloodstained fangs that look all too solid - and sharp.

Wirrow flickers past that hobgoblin and on to the two archers, one of whom screams as the nightmarish ranger sinks her teeth into his neck. When she reforms between them, the two archers (one of them aghast and bleeding) drop their bows and whip out swords, slashing at her. She easily dodges away from the strikes, even her corporeal self as difficult to hit as a flickering shadow.

Rolls

Hgob1 vs Stella - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Hgob2 vs Dieter - (1d20+3)

(14) + 3 = 17

Dmg to Dieter - (1d8+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Arch1 vs Wirrow (longsword) - (1d20+3)

(9) + 3 = 12

Arch2 vs Wirrow (longsword) - (1d20+3)

(10) + 3 = 13

Araklusta

Sep 12, 2021 2:34 am

Re: The Coast Way

Round 3 Player Phase!!!

OOC:

These guys shouldn't last much longer, provided ya'll can get past their moderately high ACs. Get 'em!

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/1e/61/a7/1e61a738a79d514cf95161f121ea08c5.jpg

Imoen

Araklusta

Sep 12, 2021 2:35 am

Re: The Coast Way

An arrow comes whistling in from the trees and buries itself in the throat of the injured hobgoblin archer (Arch1 takes 17 dmg and DIES).

"Dang it! I was aiming for its eye."

Imoen steps out of the trees, nocking another arrow. "You guys are really good at finding trouble."

Rolls

Imoen vs Arch1 - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

1d20+5 : (11) + 5 = 16

dmg to arch1 (sneak attack) - (3d6+3)

(536) + 3 = 17

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 12, 2021 2:48 am

Re: The Coast Way

Wishing to retreat from the hobgoblin, but not willing to expose herself to its attacks any more than necessary, Stella—still a living constellation—stays next to Dieter and tries and misses another shot. She wasn't exactly sure what these arrows were made of, but they certainly weren't easy to use...but they were easy to draw.

She draws her bowstring a few times, layering arrow upon arrow, then fires, the arrows exploding around their foe in a spray of stardust.

(Sacred Flame. Hobgoblin must make a DC 13 DEX save or take 6 radiant damage. If Aiwë has Magical Inspiration, and the hobgoblin fails, it takes an extra 1d6)

HP 8/13
AC 13
Next to Dieter and hobgoblin

Last edited September 12, 2021 5:16 am

Rolls

Sacred Flame Damage vs Hobgoblin - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Starry Form Archer Attack (Dis) - (1d20+5, 1d20+5)

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

1d20+5 : (7) + 5 = 12

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Sep 12, 2021 2:50 am

Re: The Coast Way

HP 28/28
AC: 14
By the Archers (which would make a great curse, really)

Wirrow feels more alive than she ever has. The whirl of death and blood on the battlefield, the fear of the enemy and their inability to hit her. She gives a bloody smile, and none of it is her own. Almost casually with how easy it looks, Wirrow rams a shortsword through the heart of one of the fearful archers as she recoalesces into flesh. Just as decisively, she then rips it back out, turning away to set her sights on the hobgoblin closest to her friends.

If these were the ones who took Sheemish... yes, she was on the right track to helping Stella not cry. One step closer at a time.

(Double shortsword versus Archer 2. Archer 2 takes 16 damage and dies.)

Last edited September 12, 2021 3:03 am

Rolls

Shortsword A - (1d20+5)

(20) + 5 = 25

Shortsword B (oofhand) - (1d20+5)

(10) + 5 = 15

Shortsword A damage - (1d6+9)

(1) + 9 = 10

Shortsword A Bardic Inspiration damage - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Sep 12, 2021 5:01 am

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter grunts in pain and spits a bit of blood into the hobgoblin’s face. Suddenly a flash of steel heralds a new grim blade. It’s serpentine edge dancing in the firelight he raises it high before bringing it down only to bite deeply into the goblin’s shield

Last edited September 12, 2021 5:04 am

Rolls

Atttaaaaaaack hobgoblin 2 - (1D20+5, 2D6+3)

1D20+5 : (8) + 5 = 13

2D6+3 : (35) + 3 = 11

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 15, 2021 1:03 am

Re: The Coast Way

"Imoen!" Aiwë gasps with relief. Exhausted as she is, her swing at the hobgoblin in front of her bites only armour. "Did you see us leave? We were in such a hurry!" She does her best to hide just how close to collapsing she is.

HP: 1/18
AC: 16

Last edited September 15, 2021 2:55 pm

Rolls

Attack hobgoblin 2 - (1d20+5)

(8) + 5 = 13

Araklusta

Sep 20, 2021 3:59 pm

Re: The Coast Way

With one hobgoblin on either side, Wirrow fights them each off simultaneously. Still, for all her speed and cunning, the ranger faces two skilled soldiers. One feints forward, drawing her attention just before the other launches a brutal attack (Wirrow takes 13 slashing dmg). But before they can press the advantage, one of the hobgoblins takes an arrow to the throat as Imoen appears. With only one opponent now to occupy her attention, Wirrow eagerly savages it.

The remaining hobgoblin pumps its legs and charges at Dieter, longsword sweeping for his head. The young warrior blocks with his own serpentine greatsword, then slams that weapon into the hobgoblin's shield, jarring it momentarily. Aiwe's attack nearly gets through the lone goblinoid soldier's armor, and a stream of curses fly from the hobgoblin's mouth. Beset upon as it is, it has no defense against the burning radiance of Stella's starfall of arrows.

The hobgoblin, badly wounded and aware of the five enemies surrounding it, pulls a hunting knife from its belt and slashes its own throat. It falls with a gurgle.

Rolls

Hgob2 vs Dieter - (1d20+3)

(10) + 3 = 13

Arch1 vs Wirrow - (1d20+3)

(7) + 3 = 10

Arch2 vs Wirrow - (1d20+3)

(15) + 3 = 18

Dmg to Wirrow (longsword, martial advantage) - (1d8+1, 2d6)

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

2d6 : (65) = 11

Hgob2 dex save vs sacred flame - (1d20+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

extra dmg to Hgob - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Imoen

Araklusta

Sep 20, 2021 4:20 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen swings her bow over her shoulder and trots up. "I mighta seen you leave. Or I mighta just asked ol' Bentley why all my friends were just disappeared. But for sure I saw Stella's light show up in the sky! Led me right to you. And good thing, too!"

The young girl wrinkles her nose and kicks at the nearby body of the last hobgoblin, making sure it's dead. It's not, quite. "Okay, ew. Is anybody going to put that thing out of its misery?"

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 21, 2021 4:37 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë frowns. "Light show?" She hadn't thought of how visible Stella's magic would be. She didn't even know Stella could do things like that when they left. "We have to hurry. Who else has seen the lights?" Her sword comes down over the neck of the hobgoblin.

"Let's go."

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 21, 2021 3:48 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella's blue, starry countenance dissipates into dust, leaving just a normal girl behind. As it vanishes, she inhales with a gasp. "I—" she nervously looks up at where she accidentally shot her arrows. She wasn't sure what kind of power had come over her, but she clearly didn't quite know how to use it.

Before her thoughts can berate her any further, and heedless of her own wounds, Stella notices her companions' wounds and rushes to Aiwë with a slight limp.

She draws out a bandage and bundle of herbs. "We have to move, but first...this'll hurt..." she warns, parting the wound at her collarbone to quickly wipe away blood and apply a salve and bandages. (Healer. Aiwë regains 12 HP)

There wasn't much more she could do for Dieter at the moment—so Stella moved on to Wirrow. She steps back with wide eyes, startled as she realizes the girl's mouth was dripping with blood. She bites her lip and steps forward with a dwindling supply of herbs and bandages. "Here..." (Healer. Wirrow regains 8 HP)

8/17 HP

Last edited September 21, 2021 3:54 pm

Rolls

Healing Aiwë, Wirrow - (1d6+7, 1d6+7)

1d6+7 : (5) + 7 = 12

1d6+7 : (1) + 7 = 8

Wirrow Bloodbyrn

deoelvenmage Inactive forever!

Sep 21, 2021 7:55 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Wirrow's smile dims a bit at the new arrival, but she still seems fairly pleased with herself. When Stella reacts with shock at the blood on her face, she does her best to wipe it off, gathering much of it into a boiling red orb that glows faintly. A tendril reaches out from it and flickers across Stella's leg where she was hurt, and the pain lessens, however unnervingly it may be. (Pacify. Stella regains 6 HP)

Checking everything one last time, Wirrow follows Aiwe's order to move out alongside Stella. "We did good, right?" The whispered question to her best friend is rhetorical, mixed with lingering excitement from battle. She, and Stella especially, had both had wonderful displays of magic. Wirrow either didn't notice or doesn't care that Stella never landed a single one of her heavenly arrows.

Last edited September 21, 2021 8:06 pm

Rolls

Pacify - (1d10+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Imoen

Araklusta

Sep 22, 2021 1:41 am

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen rolls her shoulders in a casual shrug. "I dunno who mighta seen it. Probably anyone looking out the north or east windows of the Inn." She blinks, then her eyes widen and her hand rises to her mouth. "Oh, right! Assassins..."

The girl hugs her arms around herself, though the night is hardly cold. "Where's Sheemish, anyway?"

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 25, 2021 3:20 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Stella looks nervously as the blood magic does its work, but quickly shifts focus as Wirrow begins to lead the way. She snatches a few arrows from one of the fallen archers and follows suit.

"Captured..." Stella murmurs to Imoen. "Probably in their camp. We're going to rescue him."

Stella wracks her brain, trying to recall what she knows about hobgoblins and why they might be organized here.

Rolls

History - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 26, 2021 1:24 am

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwë sighs with relief at Stella's aid. "Thanks, sister-girl." She checks her equipment while Wirrow sees to Stella.

Quote:

"We did good, right?"

"I think so," Shelur ventures, realizing no one is around to call the shots or assess such things. "Though if any of the Clan get caught drinking the blood of our enemies..." she hesitates, suddenly realizing she might set Wirrow's 'caged animal eyes' off. "It's not super awesome..." she finishes lamely. "Um, lets get going."

Last edited September 26, 2021 1:25 am

Rolls

Survival - (1d20+1)

(10) + 1 = 11

Imoen

Araklusta

Sep 27, 2021 11:57 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen skips forward. "'Drinking the blood of our enemies'?" Her light laughter seems shrill in the dark night. "What, are we talking vampires or something? Like one of those would be out in these woods tonight! Although..." She huddles down a bit into her cloak. "I suppose these dark woods next to the Inn, which makes a steady source of victims..."

She bursts out suddenly at the adventurers, hands like claws and a snarl on her face. "Blah!" But the twinkle never leaves her eyes. The young girl erupts with laughter, sagging low with her arms wrapped around herself. "Oh, I swear! I'm sure nobody would visit the Friendly Arm Inn if there were a vampire nearby. Surely the Mirrorshades would put the vile thing down right quick!"

Araklusta

Sep 28, 2021 12:00 am

Re: The Coast Way

Thinking on the hobgoblins, Stella considers their martial skill. Clearly they were used to fighting as a group, more like a squad of soldiers than ragtag brigands. There's no possibility that hobgoblins could be here in force, however. An army of the goblinoids would surely draw the attention of both Baldur's Gate and Amn!

But perhaps a smaller, organized force, such as a band of mercenaries? That would likely be closer to the truth.

Meanwhile, Aiwe searches around for clues as to their missing blacksmith's whereabouts. She easily finds the hobgoblins' camp just a little further into the woods. There are but a handful of sleeping bags around the ashes of a firepit, all of them empty. And just far enough away so as to keep an eye on, she finds Sheemish, bound and unconscious.

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 28, 2021 1:34 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella counts the sleeping bags.

"Five bedrolls..." she whispers. "I think that was all of them."

She waits hesitantly, trusting Aiwë or Wirrow to look for dangers such as traps before approaching.

Last edited September 28, 2021 1:45 am

Rolls

Investigation, if needed - (1d20+4)

(18) + 4 = 22

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 28, 2021 1:38 am

Re: The Coast Way

"I believe it," Aiwë says in response to Imoen. "Just as quickly as bloodthirsty assassins that strike in libraries and dark bounty hunters that take captives from their rooms." She glowers out at the camp. The enemies she is used to aren't usually so subtle or sly. She prefers it that way.

Satisfied there aren't further enemies lying in wait, Aiwë gestures for Stella to help Sheemish, and sets to rooting through the mercs' belongings.

Actually mean perception, but same bonus. Or else investigation for a flat roll.

Last edited September 28, 2021 1:43 am

Rolls

Survival - (1d20+1)

(14) + 1 = 15

Stella

Carcabob

Sep 28, 2021 1:50 am

Re: The Coast Way

Stella follows Aiwë's lead and kneels next to Sheemish, drawing a small knife. She cuts his bonds, then taps out the five-stared constellation of the Watchers, which flashes and fades, imbuing the artificer with life.

She only had one dose of prepared herbs left, and was getting more comfortable with her druidic powers...though only slightly it seemed. (Sheemish regains 4 HP)

Last edited September 28, 2021 1:51 am

Rolls

Healing Word - (1d4+3)

(1) + 3 = 4

Sheemish

Araklusta

Sep 28, 2021 1:57 am

Re: The Coast Way

Sheemish, face sporting a fair number of cuts and bruises, seems to breathe more easily as some of the injuries magically close and heal. The blacksmith's eyes flicker open and for a moment he focuses on Stella's face above him. He opens his mouth, likely to crack some joke, but then his eyelids drift shut and his head falls gently back. Breathing slowly and steadily, the man has fallen asleep. It would seem the exhausted artificer needs his rest.

Araklusta

Sep 28, 2021 3:37 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Aiwe finds little on the bodies of the hobgoblins, but within their sleeping rolls and bags she finds some gold and several patches. The patches look as though they've been removed from clothing, and there are similarly-sized holes on the shoulders of the hobgoblins' tunics. Each patch bears the same symbol: a dark blue fist surrounded by a light blue nimbus.

Rolls

Guld peesez - (7d20)

(141041651516) = 80

Aiwë Shelur

gardensun

Sep 28, 2021 4:52 pm

Re: The Coast Way

"Got any room left in your book for a sketch of this?" Aiwë asks Stella, showing her one of the patches. "And here's some money for a new one." She consolidates the money into one of the hobgoblin's pouches, and drops it into Stella's pack.

While Stella makes her sketch, Aiwë checks to make sure they have everything she recognizes as Sheemish's, then lifts the burly blacksmith over her shoulders.

"I'm ready to go."

Dieter

Victor.Strokov Inactive for 3 months

Oct 1, 2021 12:36 am

Re: The Coast Way

Dieter examines the patches to see if they’ve been carefully cut out or ripped off.

"If a legion is operating in the area that can be very bad news, do these look like deserters or scouts?"

Araklusta

Oct 1, 2021 9:33 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Under Dieter's careful eye, the patches look to have been carefully cut out.

Imoen

Araklusta

Oct 1, 2021 9:38 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Imoen shakes her head in awe as Aiwe hoists Sheemish up. "Wow! Carrying another ally around! You know, you're pretty beefy for a lady!"

The girl skips past Dieter. "I know a good way to tell! Just check and see if they have anything that might be stolen. If they're deserters, they'd probably take a few things on the way out." She absently fingers a pocket inside her coat, where likely rests that one wand she stole from Candlekeep.

It doesn't seem as though the hobgoblins have stolen anything, if they are indeed deserters. But it's very unlikely that these soldiers were part of an army. If there were an army of hobgoblins anywhere nearby, it would be the talk of the century.

Stella

Carcabob

Oct 4, 2021 3:03 pm

Re: The Coast Way

Quote:

"Got any room left in your book for a sketch of this?" Aiwë asks Stella, showing her one of the patches. "And here's some money for a new one." She consolidates the money into one of the hobgoblin's pouches, and drops it into Stella's pack.

"Uh..." Stella flips to the end of her tome where she has but two loose sheets of paper left.

"Oh! Thank you..." she thanks Aiwë for the coin. She magically copies the symbol onto the page with a temporary prestidigitation and begins tracing it with actual writing.

Quote:

"If a legion is operating in the area that can be very bad news, do these look like deserters or scouts?"

"A legion seems unlikely..." Stella remarks, "But with how things have been going, I'm willing to believe anything is possible if it's terrible enough...but where would they even be located? She lets the question hang.

After they start moving again, Stella walks aside Imoen. "Um...I just wanted to say, I'm glad you're here. You're pretty good with that bow," she smiles. Certainly better than me... "How'd you learn?"

Last edited October 4, 2021 3:19 pm

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